Explore a comprehensive array of UPSC Prelims topic-wise questions centered on General Knowledge, specifically focusing on Awards. Delve into the diverse realm of accolades spanning various fields such as arts, literature, science, and more. These meticulously curated questions offer insight into the significance, recipients, and historical context of renowned awards. Whether you aspire to excel in the Civil Services examination or seek to broaden your knowledge base, this resource provides a valuable opportunity to understand the recognition bestowed upon exceptional individuals and organizations. Immerse yourself in the narratives behind prestigious awards, honing your analytical skills and broadening your understanding of their impact on society and culture. Prepare effectively for the UPSC Prelims by engaging with questions that unravel the intricacies of notable awards, empowering you to navigate this aspect of General Knowledge with confidence and proficiency.
Q1. Bharat Ratna was awarded in 1997 to (1998)
(a) Dr. Homi Bhabha (Posthumous)
(b) Former President R. Venkataraman
(c) Satyajit Ray (Posthumous)
(d) Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam
Ans. (d)
In 1997, A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, Aruna Asaf Ali (Posthumous), and Gulzari Lal Nanda (Posthumous) were honored with the prestigious Bharat Ratna award. Satyajit Ray was also awarded the Bharat Ratna posthumously in 1992. Fast forward to 2019, former President Pranab Mukherjee, Assamese Singer-composer Bhupen Hazarika, and social activist Nanaji Desmukh were conferred with the Bharat Ratna. This esteemed award, established as the highest civilian honor of the Republic of India, is a recognition of outstanding service or performance of the highest order. From eminent scientists to acclaimed artists, and dedicated social activists, the Bharat Ratna celebrates individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the nation, leaving an indelible mark on its history and culture.
Q2. Which of the following pairs are correctly matched? (2005)
| 1. Champadevi Shukla | Goldman Environmental Prize |
| 2. Dr P Sri Ramachanrudu | Vachaspati Puraskar |
| 3. Ela Ramesh Bhatt | Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence in Public Administration, Academic and Management |
| 4. Upamanyu Chatterjee | Lalit Kala Ratna Award |
Select the correct answer using the codes given below
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 1, 2 and 3
(c) 3 and 4
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Ans. (b)
Pairs (1), (2) and (3) are correctly matched.
Champadevi Shukla, an Indian activist from Bhopal, was honored with the Goldman Environmental Prize in 2004 alongside Rashida Bee. Ela Ramesh Bhatt received the Lal Bahadur Shastri National Award for Excellence in Public Administration, Academic, and Management in 2004. Dr. P. Sri Ramachanrudu, an Indian scholar of Vedanta, Vyakarana, and Alkankar Sastra, and a prolific writer of Sanskrit and Telugu literature, was awarded the Vachaspati Puraskar by the Birla Foundation in 2003.
Q3. In which one of the following films did the Nobel Laureate Pearl S Buck collaborate? (2005)
(a) Shatranj Ke Khilari
(b) Guide
(c) Lawrence of Arabia
(d) Titanic
Ans. (b)
Nobel Laureate Pearl S. Buck contributed to the English version of the film ‘Guide’. She authored the script for the film, showcasing her versatile talent beyond literature. Known for her compelling storytelling, Buck, also recognized by her Chinese name Sai Zhenzhu, was an acclaimed American writer and novelist. Her masterpiece, “The Good Earth,” became a best-seller in the United States and earned her the Pulitzer Prize in 1932. In 1938, Buck was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature for her rich, epic descriptions of peasant life in China and her biographical works. Remarkably, she was the first American woman to receive this esteemed honor, solidifying her legacy as a literary trailblazer with a global impact.
Q4. Wangari Maathai, the Nobel Prize winner from Kenya is known for her contribution to which one d the following? (2007)
(a) Journalism
(b) International economics
(c) Sustainable development
(d) Child development
Ans. (c)
In 2004, Wangari Maathai was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize for her outstanding contributions to sustainable development, democracy, and peace. Notably, she holds the distinction of being the first African woman to receive this prestigious award, marking a significant milestone in history. Internationally recognized for her advocacy for democratic rights and environmental conservation, Maathai’s work has left an indelible impact on global efforts towards a more sustainable and peaceful future. Her dedication to empowering communities, promoting environmental stewardship, and fostering social justice serves as an inspiration to people around the world, highlighting the crucial link between environmental preservation, democracy, and lasting peace.
Q5. The Pulitzer Prize is associated with which one of the following? (2007)
(a) Environmental protection
(b) Olympic Games
(c) Journalism
(d) Civil Aviation
Ans. (c)
The Pulitzer Prize, synonymous with excellence in journalism, also recognizes achievements in literature and musical composition. Instituted in 1917 and named after the esteemed United States publisher Joseph Pulitzer, the prize is administered by the Pulitzer Prize Board. Annually, awards are bestowed across twenty-one categories, with winners in twenty of these categories receiving a certificate along with a cash award of US $15,000. However, the recipient of the public service category is honored with a prestigious gold medal. This illustrious award celebrates exceptional talent and contributions in various fields, reflecting the diverse spectrum of human endeavor and creativity.
Q6. Consider the following statements. (2008)
1. Orange Prize is awarded to a work of published fiction in English by a woman.
2. Prizes awarded by the Commonwealth Foundation to a citizen of any Commonwealth country for any literary work in English.
Which of the statement(s) given above is/are correct?
(a) Only 1
(b) Only 2
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2
Ans. (a)
Statement (1) is indeed correct. The Orange Broadband Prize for Fiction, now known as the Women’s Prize for Fiction, is indeed one of the United Kingdom’s most prestigious literary awards. This annual prize is specifically awarded to the best original full-length novel written by a female author, regardless of nationality, as long as it’s written in English and published in the UK in the previous year.
Q7. Kim Dae-Jung won the Nobel Prize for Peace. He is from which one of the following countries? (2008)
(a) Vietnam
(b) Combodia
(c) South Korea
(d) Japan
Ans. (c)
Kim Dae-Jung, born on January 6, 1924, and passed away on August 18, 2009, was a prominent South Korean politician and activist. He notably served as the eighth President of South Korea, holding office from 1998 to 2003. In recognition of his tireless efforts towards democracy and human rights in South Korea and across East Asia, Kim Dae-Jung was honored with the Nobel Peace Prize in 2000. His commitment to fostering peace and reconciliation extended to diplomatic relations with North Korea and Japan, reflecting his dedication to regional stability and harmony. Kim Dae-Jung’s legacy remains a testament to the transformative power of diplomacy, dialogue, and advocacy in advancing peace and justice on both national and international scales.
Q8. With reference to Stree Shakti Puraskar, for which one of the following is ‘Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Award’ given? (2009)
(a) Administrative Skills
(b) Achievements in Scientific Research
(c) Achievements in Sports and Games
(d) Courage and Valour
Ans. (d)
The Stree Shakti Puraskar includes the prestigious ‘Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Award’, conferred upon eminent women personalities renowned for their exceptional courage and valor. Administered by the Ministry of Women and Child Development, this award invites nominations from a diverse range of entities, including non-governmental organizations, women development corporations, and national and state-level commissions for women. The award serves as a platform to recognize and honor women who have demonstrated outstanding courage and resilience in their respective fields, inspiring others through their remarkable achievements. By celebrating the contributions of these extraordinary individuals, the Stree Shakti Puraskar aims to promote gender equality and empower women to pursue their aspirations fearlessly.
Q9. For outstanding contribution to which one of the following fields in Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar Prize given ? (2009)
(a) Literature
(b) Performing Arts
(c) Science
(d) Social Service
Ans. (c)
The Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar Prize, dedicated to the fields of science and technology, recognizes outstanding contributions by scientists below the age of 45. Instituted in 1958 by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), it honors the legacy of Shanti Swaroop Bhatnagar. Recipients are acknowledged for their remarkable scientific achievements primarily within India over the preceding five years. The prize, which includes a citation, a plaque, and a cash award of ₹500,000, is presented by the Prime Minister. This prestigious accolade underscores India’s commitment to fostering innovation and excellence in scientific research, motivating young scientists to pursue groundbreaking discoveries and advancements in various domains of science and technology.
Q10. Consider the following statements in respect of Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards. (2021)
1. Bharat Ratna and Padma Awards are titles under the Article 18(1) of the Constitution of India.
2. Padma Awards, which were instituted in the year 1954, were suspended only once.
3. The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is restricted to a maximum of five in a particular year.
Which of the above statements are not correct?
(a) 1 and 2
(b) 2 and 3
(c) 1 and 3
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Ans. (d)
All the statements provided are indeed incorrect.
- Article 18(1) of the Indian Constitution prohibits the state from conferring titles except military and academic distinctions. However, Padma Awards and Bharat Ratna are indeed considered titles within the meaning of Article 18, as they confer honorific titles on recipients.
- The Padma Awards were not instituted in 1954. They were established in 1954 but first awarded in 1955. They are indeed announced annually on the occasion of Republic Day, but there were interruptions in the years 1978, 1979, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, and 1997.
- The number of Bharat Ratna Awards is not restricted to a maximum of three in a particular year. While it’s true that Bharat Ratna Awards are prestigious and usually awarded sparingly, there is no specific restriction on the number of awards that can be conferred in a particular year.
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