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West Bengal Gk Quiz 32 (20 MCQs)

This set of multiple-choice questions evaluates knowledge of West Bengal's geography, including the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta and jute cultivation, historical events such as the partition of India and the Pala Empire, and cultural heritage like Durga Puja and Kolkata sweets. It tests understanding of key figures, traditional arts, and regional cuisine.

Quiz Instructions

Select an option to see the correct answer instantly.

1. It is a popular sweet of Kolkata

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

Exam Relevance: West Bengal GK, UPSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Rasgulla is a popular sweet originating from Kolkata, West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: One might mistakenly choose other popular sweets like Ladoo or Jalebi, which are also popular but not specifically associated with Kolkata.

Explanations: Rasgulla is a traditional Bengali sweet made from chhena (cottage cheese) and semolina, soaked in sugar syrup. It is widely recognized and enjoyed in Kolkata and is a significant part of the city's culinary heritage.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Ladoo is a popular sweet but not specifically associated with Kolkata.
Option B: Jalebi is a popular sweet but not specifically associated with Kolkata.
Option C: Rasgulla is a traditional sweet of Kolkata, West Bengal.
Option D: Barfi is a popular sweet but not specifically associated with Kolkata.

Mnemonic: Rasgulla, Kolkata's pride.

2. Kolkatta is the Capital of

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

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

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Kolkata with other cities in neighboring states.

Explanations: Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal, which is one of the states in India. The other options listed are incorrect as they refer to different states or regions.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Tripura is a different state in India, not the capital of West Bengal.
Option B: Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal.
Option C: Odisha is a different state in India, not the capital of West Bengal.
Option D: Tamil Nadu is a different state in India, not the capital of West Bengal.

3. In which year was West Bengal formed as a state?

Exam Relevance: UPSC, WBCS, History Exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: West Bengal was formed as a state in 1947, following the partition of India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse the year with the partition of Bengal in 1905 or the re-unification in 1911.

Explanations: West Bengal was established as a state in 1947, when India gained independence from British rule. The partition of India led to the creation of West Bengal as a distinct state within the newly independent nation. This event is significant in the history of West Bengal and marks the beginning of its existence as a state.

Option Analysis:

Option A: 1905 is incorrect because it refers to the partition of Bengal by the British, not the formation of the state of West Bengal.
Option B: 1911 is incorrect because it refers to the annulment of the 1905 partition and the reunification of Bengal, not the formation of the state of West Bengal.
Option C: 1947 is correct because it marks the year when West Bengal was formed as a state following the partition of India.
Option D: 1950 is incorrect because it is after the formation of West Bengal as a state.

4. Who took charge of the company's affairs and re-established its position in Bengal after Siraj ud Daulah captured the company's fort

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Robert clive.

Exam Relevance: West Bengal Civil Services, UPSC, IAS

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Robert Clive took charge of the company's affairs and re-established the East India Company's position in Bengal after Siraj ud Daulah captured the company's fort.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Robert Clive with other historical figures involved in the East India Company's operations in Bengal, such as Aurangzeb or Queen Elizabeth I.

Explanations: Robert Clive played a crucial role in re-establishing the East India Company's position in Bengal after the capture of the company's fort by Siraj ud Daulah. Clive's military and administrative skills were instrumental in securing the company's interests and establishing British dominance in the region.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Robert Clive is the correct answer as he took charge and re-established the company's position in Bengal.
Option B: Queen Elizabeth I was not involved in the affairs of the East India Company in Bengal.
Option C: Aurangzeb was the Mughal Emperor and not involved in the company's affairs in Bengal during this period.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Robert Clive is the correct answer.

Mnemonic: R-C: Robert Clive Re-established Company

5. Kolkata, Asansol, Darjeeling

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Kolkata, Asansol, and Darjeeling are all cities located within the state of West Bengal in India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing these cities with those in neighboring states like Odisha or Uttar Pradesh.

Explanations: Kolkata is the capital city of West Bengal. Asansol is a major industrial city in the state. Darjeeling is a well-known hill station in West Bengal. All these cities are part of the state of West Bengal, making the correct answer West Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Maharashtra is incorrect as none of the cities mentioned are located in Maharashtra.
Option B: Odisha is incorrect as none of the cities mentioned are located in Odisha.
Option C: West Bengal is the correct answer as all the cities mentioned are located in West Bengal.
Option D: Uttar Pradesh is incorrect as none of the cities mentioned are located in Uttar Pradesh.

Mnemonic: KAD-WB (Kolkata, Asansol, Darjeeling - West Bengal)

6. The first official archives of India, 'the Imperial record department' was established in 1891 C.E. in

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

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Imperial Record Department was established in 1891 in Kolkata, which was the capital of British India at that time.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing Delhi, as it is the current capital of India and might be assumed to have been the capital during the British era.

Explanations: The Imperial Record Department was established in 1891 in Kolkata, which was the capital of British India at that time. This department was responsible for maintaining official records and archives. The choice of Kolkata as the location for this department reflects its significance as the administrative center during the British colonial period.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Chennai was not the capital of British India during the time the Imperial Record Department was established.
Option B: Delhi became the capital of British India in 1911, after the establishment of the Imperial Record Department.
Option C: Kolkata was the capital of British India in 1891, making it the correct location for the establishment of the Imperial Record Department.
Option D: Bangaluru was not the capital of British India during the time the Imperial Record Department was established.

Mnemonic: Kolkata, Capital, 1891

7. Which of the following historical monument is having "Gateway to Bengal"?

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (C) Teliagarhi Fort.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Teliagarhi Fort is historically significant as it is often referred to as the "Gateway to Bengal." It was a strategic location that controlled the entry into Bengal from the north.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Teliagarhi Fort with other historical monuments in West Bengal, such as Neelkanth Palace or Raj Mahal, which are also significant but not specifically known as the "Gateway to Bengal."

Explanations: Teliagarhi Fort is located in the Malda district of West Bengal and was a crucial military and strategic fortification. Its location made it a key entry point into Bengal, earning it the title "Gateway to Bengal." This historical significance is why it is the correct answer.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Neelkanth Palace is a historical palace but is not known as the "Gateway to Bengal."
Option B: Raj Mahal is another historical site but does not hold the title of "Gateway to Bengal."
Option C: Teliagarhi Fort is historically significant as the "Gateway to Bengal" due to its strategic location.
Option D: This option is incorrect as Teliagarhi Fort is the correct answer.

8. Vidyasagar set up schools for girls in..

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

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Vidyasagar was a prominent social reformer in 19th century Bengal who advocated for the education of women. He established several schools for girls in Calcutta to promote female literacy and education.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be assuming that Vidyasagar's efforts were spread across other major cities in India, such as Delhi or Mumbai, rather than focusing on Calcutta.

Explanations: Vidyasagar, a renowned social reformer, focused his efforts on promoting education for women in Calcutta. He established several schools specifically for girls in the city to combat illiteracy and empower women. This initiative was a significant part of his social reform agenda in West Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Delhi was not the primary location for Vidyasagar's educational reforms.
Option B: Mumbai was not the primary location for Vidyasagar's educational reforms.
Option C: Kerala was not the primary location for Vidyasagar's educational reforms.
Option D: Calcutta was the primary location where Vidyasagar established schools for girls.

9. Netaji subhash Chandra International airport is located in

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

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is located in Kolkata, West Bengal.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is to confuse it with other major airports in India, such as those in Mumbai, Delhi, or Chennai.

Explanations: Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport is the primary international airport serving the city of Kolkata, West Bengal. It is named after Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose, a significant figure in India's struggle for independence.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Mumbai is incorrect as the airport in question is not located there.
Option B: Kolkata is the correct location of Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport.
Option C: Delhi is incorrect as the airport in question is not located there.
Option D: Chennai is incorrect as the airport in question is not located there.

10. Name the ruler of BENGAL.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Murshid Quli Khan.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Murshid Quli Khan was the Nawab of Bengal from 1717 to 1727. He was a significant figure in the history of Bengal during the Mughal era.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Murshid Quli Khan with other rulers of Bengal, such as Saadat Khan or Asaf Jah, who were also important figures in the region.

Explanations: Murshid Quli Khan was appointed as the Nawab of Bengal by the Mughal Emperor Farrukhsiyar in 1717. He was a key figure in the administration of Bengal and played a crucial role in the economic and political development of the region during his tenure.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Saadat Khan was the Nawab of Awadh, not Bengal.
Option B: Murshid Quli Khan was the Nawab of Bengal from 1717 to 1727.
Option C: Aurangzeb was the Mughal Emperor, not the Nawab of Bengal.
Option D: Asaf Jah was the Nawab of the Deccan, not Bengal.

11. Fort St. George: Madras:: Fort St. William: .....

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

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The question is based on the historical association between forts and the cities they were built to protect. Fort St. George is associated with Madras (now Chennai), and similarly, Fort St. William is associated with Calcutta (now Kolkata).

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the names of the forts or the cities they are associated with, especially since some of the cities have undergone name changes over time.

Explanations: Fort St. George was established in 1644 by the British East India Company in Madras, which is now known as Chennai. Similarly, Fort St. William was established in 1696 in Calcutta, which is now known as Kolkata. The question draws a parallel between these two historical forts and the cities they are associated with.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Chennai is the current name of Madras, but it is not the city associated with Fort St. William.
Option B: Calcutta (now Kolkata) is the correct city associated with Fort St. William.
Option C: Bombay (now Mumbai) is not associated with Fort St. William.
Option D: Ajmer is not associated with Fort St. William.

12. Name the Indo-Japan joint Air Force exercise, that began in Arjan Singh of Panagarh town in West Bengal.

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (B) Shinyuu maitri.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, WBCS, Competitive exams

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Indo-Japan joint Air Force exercise is known as "Shinyuu Maitri." This exercise is conducted to enhance the interoperability and mutual understanding between the Indian and Japanese Air Forces.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing the name of the exercise with other joint military exercises or similar-sounding terms.

Explanations: The correct answer is "Shinyuu Maitri" because it is the official name of the joint Air Force exercise between India and Japan. This exercise is held in West Bengal, specifically in the Arjan Singh Air Force base in Panagarh town, to strengthen the defense cooperation between the two countries.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Siam bharat is not the correct name of the joint Air Force exercise between India and Japan.
Option B: Shinyuu maitri is the correct name of the joint Air Force exercise between India and Japan.
Option C: Eastern bridge is not the correct name of the joint Air Force exercise between India and Japan.
Option D: Desert eagle is not the correct name of the joint Air Force exercise between India and Japan.

13. Conventional rice rainfall in West Bengal called as

Correct Answer: Correct answer is: (A) Kala bhai Saki.

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Kala bhai Saki is the term used in West Bengal to describe the conventional rice rainfall.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Kala bhai Saki with other weather phenomena or terms used in different regions.

Explanations: Kala bhai Saki refers to the pre-monsoon showers that occur in West Bengal, which are crucial for the rice cultivation season. These showers are essential for preparing the fields and ensuring a good yield. The term is specific to the agricultural practices and weather patterns in West Bengal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Kala bhai Saki is the correct term for the conventional rice rainfall in West Bengal.
Option B: Aandhi refers to a storm or cyclone, not the pre-monsoon showers.
Option C: Coffee blossom is not a term used in West Bengal for rainfall.
Option D: Mango shower refers to the pre-monsoon showers in some parts of India, but not specifically in West Bengal.

14. The state of West Bengal and Ranijang provides which raw material to Tata steel?

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

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Tata Steel, one of the major steel producers in India, relies on coal as a crucial raw material for its steel production processes. Coal is used in the blast furnaces to smelt iron ore into pig iron, which is then further processed to produce steel.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing iron ore, as it is also a vital raw material for steel production. However, the question specifically asks for the raw material provided by West Bengal and Ranijang, which is coal.

Explanations: West Bengal and Ranijang are known for their coal reserves. Coal is a key raw material used in the steel production process, particularly in the blast furnaces where it is used to smelt iron ore. Therefore, the correct answer is coal.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Iron ore is a raw material used in steel production, but it is not the primary raw material provided by West Bengal and Ranijang.
Option B: Water is used in various processes in steel production, but it is not a raw material specific to West Bengal and Ranijang.
Option C: Power is essential for the operation of steel plants, but it is not a raw material provided by West Bengal and Ranijang.
Option D: Coal is the correct raw material provided by West Bengal and Ranijang for Tata Steel's production processes.

15. ..... is made by using rice powder and water in West Bengal.

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

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Alpona is a traditional folk art form in West Bengal, made using rice powder and water.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing Alpona with other traditional art forms like Rangoli or Aripan, which use different materials and are practiced in different regions.

Explanations: Alpona is a traditional folk art form in West Bengal, created using rice powder and water. It is often used to decorate floors, walls, and other surfaces during festivals and special occasions. The use of rice powder and water is a distinctive feature of Alpona, making it unique among the options provided.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Aripan is a traditional folk art form from Bihar, not West Bengal, and is made using colored powders.
Option B: Rangoli is a decorative art form found in many parts of India, typically made using colored powders, not rice powder and water.
Option C: Alpona is the correct answer as it is made using rice powder and water in West Bengal.
Option D: Mandana is a traditional folk art form from Rajasthan, not West Bengal, and is made using colored powders.

Mnemonic: Rice and Water, Alpona's Art

16. What is the name of the landform formed by most of the land of Bangladesh?

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

Exam Relevance: UPSC, Civil Services Exam, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The landform formed by most of the land of Bangladesh is a delta.

Common Mistakes: A common misunderstanding is that Bangladesh is primarily a peninsula or an island, but it is actually a delta formed by the confluence of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers.

Explanations: Bangladesh is primarily a delta, which is a landform created by the deposition of sediment at the mouth of a river. The Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers converge and form the largest delta in the world, the Ganges-Brahmaputra Delta. This deltaic region is characterized by a network of rivers, estuaries, and tidal flats, which are typical features of a delta.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. The delta is formed by the deposition of sediment at the mouth of the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers.
Option B: Incorrect. A peninsula is a piece of land surrounded by water on three sides, which does not describe the majority of Bangladesh.
Option C: Incorrect. An island is surrounded by water on all sides, which does not apply to Bangladesh.
Option D: Incorrect. A fjord is a long, narrow inlet with steep sides, typically formed by glacial activity, which is not a feature of Bangladesh.

Mnemonic: Delta: Deposition at river's end.

17. Pala Empire was mainly in

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

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: The Pala Empire was a significant Buddhist dynasty that ruled parts of Bengal and Bihar from the 8th to the 12th century.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake is confusing the Pala Empire with other dynasties that ruled different regions of India, such as the Chalukyas in Maharashtra or the Cholas in Tamil Nadu.

Explanations: The Pala Empire was primarily centered in Bengal, which includes present-day West Bengal and Bangladesh. The empire was known for its patronage of Buddhism and its cultural and educational institutions, such as the famous Nalanda University. The Pala rulers were instrumental in the spread of Buddhism and the development of art and architecture in the region.

Option Analysis:

Option A: The Pala Empire was not centered in Maharashtra.
Option B: The Pala Empire was not centered in Assam.
Option C: The Pala Empire was mainly in Bengal.
Option D: The Pala Empire was not centered in Gujarat.

Mnemonic: Pala = Bengal, Buddhism, Nalanda

18. Where is jute most produced which place of India?

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

Exam Relevance: West Bengal PSC, UPSC, State Level Competitive Exams

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: West Bengal is the largest producer of jute in India.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing a state that is not known for jute production.

Explanations: West Bengal is the leading producer of jute in India due to its favorable climate and soil conditions. The state has a long history of jute cultivation and processing, making it the primary source of jute in the country.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. West Bengal is the largest producer of jute in India.
Option B: Incorrect. Mizoram is not known for jute production.
Option C: Incorrect. Manipur is not known for jute production.
Option D: Incorrect. Andhra Pradesh is not known for jute production.

Mnemonic: Jute in Bengal, Jute in Bengal.

19. On the day of Durga Puja, Goddess Durga killed whom?

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

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

Difficulty: Easy

Concept notes: Durga Puja is a significant festival in West Bengal, celebrating the victory of Goddess Durga over the demon Mahishasura.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be confusing Mahishasura with other mythological figures or demons.

Explanations: Goddess Durga is worshipped for her victory over the buffalo demon Mahishasura. The festival of Durga Puja commemorates this triumph, symbolizing the victory of good over evil.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Correct. Mahishasura is the demon killed by Goddess Durga.
Option B: Incorrect. Yuyukhura is not a known demon in the context of Durga Puja.
Option C: Incorrect. Varaha is an avatar of Lord Vishnu, not a demon killed by Durga.
Option D: Incorrect. Kamadhenu is a divine cow, not a demon.

20. Which of these cities is closest to Bangkok?

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

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

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes: Bangkok is the capital of Thailand, while the cities listed are in India. Among these, Kolkata is the closest to Bangkok geographically.

Common Mistakes: A common mistake could be choosing a city based on familiarity rather than geographical proximity.

Explanations: Bangkok is located in Thailand, which is geographically closer to the eastern part of India. Among the given options, Kolkata is the easternmost city in India, making it the closest to Bangkok. Mumbai, Delhi, and Jaipur are all located further west in India, making them farther from Bangkok.

Option Analysis:

Option A: Mumbai is located in western India, making it farther from Bangkok.
Option B: Delhi is located in northern India, making it farther from Bangkok.
Option C: Jaipur is located in northwestern India, making it farther from Bangkok.
Option D: Kolkata is located in eastern India, making it the closest to Bangkok among the given options.

Mnemonic: Kolkata, Closest, Bangkok

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the year 1947 in the context of West Bengal?

The year 1947 marks the partition of Bengal, which led to the formation of West Bengal as a state in India and East Bengal (now Bangladesh) as part of Pakistan.

How did Kolkata become known as the 'Gateway to Bengal'?

Kolkata, formerly known as Calcutta, became known as the 'Gateway to Bengal' due to its strategic location and importance as a major port city during the British colonial era.

What role did Murshid Quli Khan play in the history of Bengal?

Murshid Quli Khan was the first Nawab of Bengal and played a significant role in the region's history by establishing Murshidabad as the capital of Bengal during the Mughal era.

What is the importance of Kolkata airport in the context of Indian cities?

Kolkata airport is one of the major international airports in India, serving as a crucial transportation hub for the eastern part of the country and connecting it to various global destinations.

How did Vidyasagar contribute to women's education in West Bengal?

Vidyasagar was a prominent social reformer who played a key role in advocating for women's education in West Bengal during the 19th century, leading to significant improvements in female literacy rates.

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