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West Bengal Gk Quiz 2 (20 MCQs)

This quiz evaluates knowledge of West Bengal's history, culture, and agricultural policies. It covers historical events like the Battle of Plassey, British colonial influence, and the Bengal Renaissance. Questions also assess understanding of regional traditions, literature, and natural phenomena such as severe thunderstorms and cyclones. The scope includes key figures, festivals, and the impact of historical and cultural elements on modern West Bengal.

Quiz Instructions

Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.

1. Kingdom that was dominant in eastern India is

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Pala.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Pala dynasty was dominant in eastern India, particularly in the region that includes present-day West Bengal, Bihar, and Bangladesh.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the Pala dynasty with other dynasties like the Gurjara-Pratiharas, Rashtrakutas, or Cholas, which were dominant in different regions of India.

Explanations: The Pala dynasty ruled eastern India from the 8th to the 12th century. They were known for their patronage of Buddhism and their influence extended over a large part of eastern India, including the region of present-day West Bengal. This makes the Pala dynasty the correct answer for the kingdom that was dominant in eastern India.

Option Analysis:

Option A: The Gurjara-Pratihara dynasty was dominant in northwestern India, not eastern India.
Option B: The Pala dynasty was dominant in eastern India, particularly in the region that includes present-day West Bengal, Bihar, and Bangladesh.
Option C: The Rashtrakutas were dominant in western and central India, not eastern India.
Option D: The Cholas were dominant in southern India, not eastern India.

Mnemonic: Pala = Power in the East

2. Green revolution was not introduced in which of these states?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) West Bengal.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, WBCS, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Green Revolution was a period of significant increase in agricultural production, primarily due to the introduction of high-yielding varieties of seeds, improved irrigation, and the use of fertilizers and pesticides. It was most prominently implemented in states like Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh.

Common Mistakes: A common misunderstanding is that the Green Revolution was uniformly implemented across all states in India. However, it was more concentrated in certain regions with favorable agricultural conditions.

Explanations: The Green Revolution was not introduced in West Bengal. This is because West Bengal's agricultural landscape and soil conditions were not as conducive to the high-yielding varieties of seeds and intensive farming practices that were central to the Green Revolution. Instead, West Bengal focused on other agricultural reforms and initiatives that were more suitable for its specific conditions.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Punjab was a major beneficiary of the Green Revolution due to its fertile soil and favorable climate for high-yielding crops.
Option B: Haryana also saw significant improvements in agricultural output due to the Green Revolution.
Option C: Western Uttar Pradesh experienced similar benefits from the Green Revolution as Punjab and Haryana.
Option D: West Bengal did not participate in the Green Revolution due to its unique agricultural conditions and alternative agricultural strategies.

3. What is the name of the super cyclone that has recently developed in the bay of bengal?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Amphan.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, Geography Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Super cyclone Amphan developed in the Bay of Bengal in 2020 and caused significant damage to West Bengal and other coastal regions.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Amphan with other cyclones that have affected the region, such as Fani or Maha.

Explanations: Super cyclone Amphan was a severe tropical cyclone that formed in the Bay of Bengal in May 2020. It caused extensive damage to West Bengal and other coastal areas, making it a significant event in the region's recent history.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Fani was a severe cyclonic storm that affected Odisha and West Bengal in 2019, not 2020.
Option B: Amphan was the super cyclone that developed in the Bay of Bengal in 2020, causing significant damage to West Bengal.
Option C: Maha was a cyclonic storm that affected the western coast of India in 2019, not the Bay of Bengal.
Option D: Nisarga was a cyclonic storm that affected the western coast of India in 2020, not the Bay of Bengal.

4. In West Bengal, localized thunderstorms that are associated with violent winds and torrential downpours are called

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Kaal Baisakhi.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Service, WBCS, UPSC, Geography Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Kaal Baisakhi refers to severe thunderstorms that occur in West Bengal during the month of Baisakh (April-May). These storms are characterized by violent winds and heavy rainfall.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Kaal Baisakhi with other weather phenomena like Loo or dust storms, which are not specific to West Bengal.

Explanations: Kaal Baisakhi is a term specific to West Bengal and refers to the severe thunderstorms that occur during the month of Baisakh. These storms are known for their violent winds and torrential downpours, making them distinct from other weather phenomena in the region.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Loo refers to hot, dry winds that blow in the northwestern and central parts of India, not specific to West Bengal.
Option B: Dust storms are associated with dry regions and are not characteristic of the weather patterns in West Bengal.
Option C: Kaal Baisakhi is the correct term for severe thunderstorms with violent winds and heavy rainfall in West Bengal.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Kaal Baisakhi is the correct term for the described weather phenomenon.

5. From the 8th century, Bengal became the centre of regional kingdom under the .....

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Pala dynasty.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, History Olympiad

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Pala dynasty was a significant regional power in Bengal from the 8th to the 12th century.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the Pala dynasty with other dynasties that ruled parts of India during the same period, such as the Ganga, Chola, or Pandya dynasties.

Explanations: The Pala dynasty emerged in the 8th century and became a dominant force in Bengal. They were known for their patronage of Buddhism and their contributions to art, architecture, and learning. The Pala rulers established a strong administrative system and expanded their influence across Bengal and parts of Bihar and Orissa. This makes the Pala dynasty the correct answer for the regional kingdom that dominated Bengal from the 8th century.

Option Analysis:

Option A: The Ganga dynasty was not the primary power in Bengal during the 8th century. They were more prominent in the 11th and 12th centuries.
Option B: The Chola dynasty was a powerful kingdom in South India, not in Bengal.
Option C: The Pala dynasty was the dominant regional power in Bengal from the 8th to the 12th century.
Option D: The Pandya dynasty was a prominent kingdom in South India, not in Bengal.

6. A type of train only Kolkata has

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Tram.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal PSC, WBCS, TET, Bank PO

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Kolkata is known for its unique public transportation system, including the tram service, which is a distinctive feature of the city.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing "City of Joy" as it is a nickname for Kolkata, but it does not refer to a type of train.

Explanations: Kolkata is the only city in India that still operates a tram service. This makes the tram a unique feature of Kolkata's public transportation system, distinguishing it from other cities in India.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 1911 is a year and not a type of train.
Option B: Hooghly is a district in West Bengal and not a type of train.
Option C: Tram is a type of train that is unique to Kolkata.
Option D: City of Joy is a nickname for Kolkata and not a type of train.

7. Rice and fish are the staple food of the people of .....

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) West Bengal.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, UPSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Rice and fish are staple foods in West Bengal due to its geographical location and cultural practices.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be assuming that other states with similar geography, like Assam, might also have rice and fish as staple foods.

Explanations: West Bengal is known for its abundant rice cultivation and rich aquatic resources, making rice and fish the primary components of the local diet. The state's fertile soil and numerous rivers and water bodies support these agricultural and fishing practices.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Rice and fish are staple foods in West Bengal.
Option B: Incorrect. Bihar's staple foods are primarily wheat and rice, not fish.
Option C: Incorrect. While Assam also has rice and fish as important parts of the diet, the question specifically asks for the staple food of the people of West Bengal.
Option D: Incorrect. Uttar Pradesh's staple foods are primarily wheat and rice, not fish.

Mnemonic: Rice and Fish, Bengal's Dish

8. Bengalis love to play

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) Football.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Football is a popular sport in West Bengal, and Bengalis are known for their love and passion for the game.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing options like Tennis or Badminton, which are also popular sports but not as widely associated with Bengali culture as football.

Explanations: Football is deeply ingrained in the culture and daily life of Bengalis. It is widely played and followed, with a strong presence in schools, colleges, and communities. The passion for football is evident in the numerous local clubs, tournaments, and the enthusiasm for international and national matches.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Tennis is not as widely associated with Bengali culture as football.
Option B: Badminton, while popular, does not hold the same cultural significance as football in West Bengal.
Option C: Chess is a popular game but does not have the same widespread cultural impact as football.
Option D: Football is the correct answer as it is deeply embedded in the cultural fabric of West Bengal.

9. WEST BENGOL

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) KOLKATA.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the capital city with other major cities or regions in India.

Explanations: West Bengal is a state in India, and its capital city is Kolkata. The other options listed are not the capital of West Bengal. Gandhinagar is the capital of Gujarat, East Bengal is not a current administrative division, and Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Gandhinagar is the capital of Gujarat, not West Bengal.
Option B: Kolkata is the correct capital of West Bengal.
Option C: East Bengal is not a current administrative division in India.
Option D: Shimla is the capital of Himachal Pradesh, not West Bengal.

10. Garia Puja is performed in the month of

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Chaitra.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, WBCS, WBSSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Garia Puja is a traditional festival celebrated in West Bengal, India, primarily by the Santal community. It is performed in the month of Chaitra, which typically falls in March or April according to the Gregorian calendar.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the month of Chaitra with other Hindu months or seasons.

Explanations: Garia Puja is associated with the agricultural community and is performed to seek blessings for a good harvest. The festival is celebrated in the month of Chaitra, which is the first month of the Hindu calendar. This timing aligns with the beginning of the agricultural season in West Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Inch is a unit of measurement and not a month.
Option B: Chaitra is the correct month for Garia Puja.
Option C: Crutches is not a month and is unrelated to the context.
Option D: Magh is another month in the Hindu calendar but not the month for Garia Puja.

11. Why did the Partition of Bengal anger the people?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Because, deep down, the partition of Bengal was planned in such a way that it would separate the Hindu-dominated areas from the Muslim-dominated ones, and thereby weaken the growing national movement in Bengal.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, IAS Prelims

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Partition of Bengal was a significant event in Indian history that aimed to divide the province into two parts: a predominantly Muslim East Bengal and a predominantly Hindu West Bengal. This division was perceived as an attempt to weaken the nationalist movement by creating divisions along religious lines.

Common Mistakes: A common misunderstanding is that the partition was solely for administrative convenience, without recognizing the underlying political motives.

Explanations: The Partition of Bengal was seen as a political maneuver by the British to divide and rule. By separating the Hindu-dominated areas from the Muslim-dominated ones, the British aimed to weaken the growing nationalist movement in Bengal. This strategy was perceived as an attempt to create religious divisions and undermine the unity of the Bengali people, leading to widespread anger and protests.

Option Analysis:

Option A: This option is incorrect as it suggests the question is a trick, which is not the case.
Option B: This option correctly identifies the underlying motive behind the partition, which was to weaken the nationalist movement by creating religious divisions.
Option C: This option is incorrect as it only mentions the administrative reasons stated on paper, without addressing the deeper political motives.
Option D: This option is incorrect as the partition did indeed anger the people due to its perceived political motives.

12. The Writers building is in?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (D) Kolkata.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The Writers Building is a historic building located in Kolkata, West Bengal, India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the location with other major cities in India, such as Delhi, Chennai, or Mumbai.

Explanations: The Writers Building is a significant landmark in Kolkata, serving as the secretariat of the Government of West Bengal. It is located in the heart of the city and is a prominent example of colonial architecture.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Delhi is incorrect as the Writers Building is not located there.
Option B: Chennai is incorrect as the Writers Building is not located there.
Option C: Mumbai is incorrect as the Writers Building is not located there.
Option D: Kolkata is the correct location of the Writers Building.

Mnemonic: Writers Building, Kolkata, Secretariat

13. Who was made puppet ruler of Bengal after the Battle of Plassey?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Mir Jafar.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Battle of Plassey in 1757 was a significant event in the history of Bengal, leading to the establishment of British rule in the region. Mir Jafar was made the puppet ruler of Bengal after the battle.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse Mir Jafar with Sirajuddulah, who was the Nawab of Bengal before the Battle of Plassey and was defeated by the British.

Explanations: After the Battle of Plassey, the British East India Company installed Mir Jafar as the Nawab of Bengal. Mir Jafar was a traitor to the Nawab Sirajuddulah and had secretly collaborated with the British. As a result, he was placed in power as a puppet ruler, allowing the British to control the administration and resources of Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Sirajuddulah was the Nawab of Bengal before the Battle of Plassey and was defeated by the British. He was not made the puppet ruler after the battle.
Option B: Mir Jafar was made the puppet ruler of Bengal after the Battle of Plassey. He had collaborated with the British and was installed as the Nawab to facilitate British control.
Option C: Alivardi Khan was the Nawab of Bengal before Sirajuddulah and died in 1756. He was not involved in the events following the Battle of Plassey.
Option D: Murshid Kuli Khan was the Nawab of Bengal in the early 18th century and died in 1727. He was not involved in the events following the Battle of Plassey.

Mnemonic: Mir Jafar, Betray Siraj, British Gain

14. Rashsundari Devi was born in .....

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) West Bengal.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, UPSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Rashsundari Devi was a notable Bengali writer and poet, born in West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be assuming she was born in another region of India or a different country.

Explanations: Rashsundari Devi was born in West Bengal, which is a state in eastern India. She is known for her autobiography "Amar Jiban" (My Life), which is one of the earliest autobiographies written by a Bengali woman. This makes West Bengal the correct answer.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Pakistan is incorrect as Rashsundari Devi was born in India, specifically in West Bengal.
Option B: West Bengal is the correct answer as Rashsundari Devi was born in this region.
Option C: Delhi is incorrect as it is not the birthplace of Rashsundari Devi.
Option D: Pune is incorrect as it is not the birthplace of Rashsundari Devi.

15. Where did rokeya make a school for the girls in 1910

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Kolkata.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, Competitive Exams on West Bengal History

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, a pioneering Bengali writer and social reformer, established a school for girls in 1910 in Kolkata.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the location with other cities in West Bengal or India where Rokeya might have been active.

Explanations: Rokeya Sakhawat Hossain, a prominent figure in the Bengali Renaissance, founded the Sakhawat Memorial Girls' School in Kolkata in 1910. This school was one of the first educational institutions for girls in the region, reflecting her commitment to women's education and empowerment.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Rokeya established the school in Kolkata in 1910.
Option B: Incorrect. Rokeya did not establish a school for girls in Bihar.
Option C: Incorrect. Rokeya did not establish a school for girls in Shimla.
Option D: Incorrect. Rokeya did not establish a school for girls in Assam.

16. The city where the first post office was opened

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Kolkata.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, UPSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: The first post office in India was established in Kolkata.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be assuming that the first post office was established in another major city like Delhi or Chennai.

Explanations: The first post office in India was established in Kolkata, which was then known as Calcutta. This historical fact is significant in the context of West Bengal's contribution to the development of postal services in India.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. The first post office in India was established in Kolkata.
Option B: Incorrect. Jaipur is not the city where the first post office was opened.
Option C: Incorrect. Delhi is not the city where the first post office was opened.
Option D: Incorrect. Chennai is not the city where the first post office was opened.

17. When do we celebrate national youth day?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) 12 January.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: National Youth Day is celebrated on 12 January in West Bengal to commemorate the birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse National Youth Day with other national holidays, such as Republic Day (26 January) or Independence Day (15 August).

Explanations: National Youth Day is observed on 12 January to honor Swami Vivekananda, who was born on this day. Swami Vivekananda is a revered figure in West Bengal and across India, known for his inspiring speeches and contributions to the youth movement.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 26 January is Republic Day, not National Youth Day.
Option B: 29 August is not associated with National Youth Day.
Option C: 12 January is the correct date for National Youth Day.
Option D: 28 February is not associated with National Youth Day.

18. Capital of india in british time?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Kolkata.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, IAS Prelims

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: During the British colonial period, Kolkata served as the capital of India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to assume that New Delhi was the capital during the British time, as it is the current capital of India.

Explanations: Kolkata was the capital of India during the British colonial period from 1773 to 1911. The British East India Company established Kolkata as the capital, and it remained so until the capital was shifted to New Delhi in 1911.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Mumbai was never the capital of India during the British colonial period.
Option B: Agra was the capital during the Mughal Empire but not during the British colonial period.
Option C: Kolkata was the capital of India during the British colonial period from 1773 to 1911.
Option D: New Delhi became the capital of India in 1911, after the British shifted the capital from Kolkata.

Mnemonic: Kolkata, Capital, British Rule

19. Weaver found in Bengal

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Tanti.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, West Bengal PSC, West Bengal GK Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Weaver communities in Bengal are known by different names. Tanti is one such name used for weaver communities.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the names of different weaving communities in Bengal.

Explanations: Weaver communities in Bengal are referred to by various names depending on the region and specific community. Tanti is a term used for weavers, particularly in West Bengal. This term is commonly associated with the weaving profession and is recognized in the context of West Bengal's cultural and occupational diversity.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Sale is not a term specifically associated with weaver communities in Bengal.
Option B: Tanti is a term used for weaver communities in Bengal.
Option C: Devangs are not typically associated with weaving communities in Bengal.
Option D: Julahas are another term for weavers, but Tanti is more commonly used in West Bengal.

Mnemonic: Tanti Weavers, Bengal Textiles

20. Siraj-Ud-Daullad marched towards the Calcutta and captured Fort William in

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) June 1756.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Siraj-Ud-Daulah, the Nawab of Bengal, captured Fort William in Calcutta in June 1756. This event is significant in the history of West Bengal and marks a crucial moment in the British East India Company's interactions with local rulers.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the dates of significant events in the history of Bengal, such as the capture of Fort William, which can lead to selecting incorrect options.

Explanations: Siraj-Ud-Daulah marched towards Calcutta and captured Fort William in June 1756. This event is well-documented in historical records and is a key date in the history of West Bengal. The capture of Fort William was a significant military action that led to the Battle of Plassey in 1757, further solidifying British control over Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: June 1755 is incorrect as the capture of Fort William occurred in 1756, not 1755.
Option B: June 1756 is the correct date when Siraj-Ud-Daulah captured Fort William.
Option C: June 1757 is incorrect as this date marks the Battle of Plassey, not the capture of Fort William.
Option D: None of the above is incorrect as June 1756 is the correct date.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the capital of West Bengal?

The capital of West Bengal is Kolkata, a major city known for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance.

What are the staple foods of West Bengal?

The staple foods of West Bengal include rice and fish, which are integral to the local cuisine and reflect the region's agricultural and aquatic resources.

What is the significance of the Green Revolution in West Bengal?

The Green Revolution in West Bengal led to significant agricultural reforms, increasing crop yields and improving the livelihoods of farmers through the adoption of new farming techniques and technologies.

What is the climate like in West Bengal?

West Bengal experiences a subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The region is also prone to severe thunderstorms and occasional cyclones, such as Super Cyclone Amphan.

What is the cultural significance of Garia Puja in West Bengal?

Garia Puja is a traditional festival celebrated by the Santal community in West Bengal, marking the beginning of the agricultural season in the month of Chaitra and invoking the blessings of the deity for a good harvest.

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