General Knowledge (GK) is one of the most important sections in competitive exams like SSC, Banking, Police, Railway, UPSC, and various State Government exams. A strong GK foundation helps you score high with minimum time investment.
In this article, we present the Top 100 GK Questions With Answers (2026 Updated) along with brief explanations to strengthen your conceptual clarity.
đ Table of Contents
- Importance of GK in Competitive Exams
- Indian History (1â20)
- Geography (21â35)
- Indian Polity (36â50)
- General Science (51â70)
- Economy (71â85)
- Current Affairs 2026 (86â100)
- How to Prepare for GK Effectively
- FAQs
đŻ Why GK Is Important for Competitive Exams?
- High scoring section
- Less calculation, more direct facts
- Helps clear the cut-off easily
- Important for interviews
đ Practice Now:
- Current Affairs Mega Challenge 2026
- Ultimate General Knowledge Challenge
- General Knowledge Mega Challenge
đ Indian History GK Questions (1â20)
1. Who is known as the Father of the Indian Constitution?
Ans: Dr. B. R. Ambedkar
Explanation: He was the Chairman of the Drafting Committee of the Constitution.
2. In which year did India gain independence?
Ans: 1947
Explanation: India became independent on 15 August 1947.
3. Who was the first Governor-General of independent India?
Ans: Lord Mountbatten
Explanation: Lord Mountbatten served as the last Viceroy of British India and became the first Governor-General of independent India from August 15, 1947 to June 1948. He oversaw the transition of power after independence.
4. The Revolt of 1857 started from which place?
Ans: Meerut
Explanation: The Revolt of 1857 began on 10 May 1857 in Meerut when Indian soldiers (sepoys) revolted against the British East India Company. It later spread across northern and central India.
5. Who founded the Maurya Empire?
Ans: Chandragupta Maurya
Explanation: Chandragupta Maurya founded the Mauryan Empire in 322 BCE after defeating the Nanda dynasty. His empire became one of the largest in ancient India.
6. Who wrote the book “Discovery of India”?
Ans: Jawaharlal Nehru
Explanation: Nehru wrote this book in 1944 during his imprisonment. It explores Indian history, culture, and philosophy.
7. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre took place in which year?
Ans: 1919
Explanation: The massacre occurred on April 13, 1919, in Amritsar when British troops under General Dyer opened fire on peaceful protesters.
8. Who was known as the Iron Man of India?
Ans: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Explanation: He was called the Iron Man because of his strong leadership in integrating over 500 princely states into independent India.
9. Who was the first woman ruler of Delhi?
Ans: Razia Sultana
Explanation: Razia Sultana ruled the Delhi Sultanate from 1236â1240 and was the only female monarch of the Delhi Sultanate.
10. Which movement was launched in 1942?
Ans: Quit India Movement
Explanation: Launched by Mahatma Gandhi on 8 August 1942, it demanded immediate British withdrawal from India.
11. Which Mughal emperor built the Taj Mahal?
Ans: Shah Jahan
Explanation: The Taj Mahal was built in memory of his wife Mumtaz Mahal in Agra during the 17th century.
12. Who was the founder of the Mughal Empire in India?
Ans: Babur
Explanation: Babur defeated Ibrahim Lodi in the First Battle of Panipat (1526) and established Mughal rule in India.
13. Which Mughal emperor introduced the Din-i-Ilahi religion?
Ans: Akbar
Explanation: Akbar introduced Din-i-Ilahi in 1582 to promote religious tolerance and unity.
14. The Harappan Civilization is also known by what other name?
Ans: Indus Valley Civilization
Explanation: It is called the Indus Valley Civilization because most early sites were discovered along the Indus River.
15. Which is the largest site of the Harappan Civilization in India?
Ans: Dholavira
Explanation: Located in present-day Gujarat, Dholavira is one of the most significant and well-planned Harappan sites.
16. Who was the founder of the Bhakti Movement in South India?
Ans: Ramanujacharya
Explanation: He was a philosopher who promoted devotion (bhakti) as the path to salvation.
17. Who composed the devotional songs known as “Abhangas”?
Ans: Tukaram
Explanation: Tukaram was a Marathi saint and poet associated with the Bhakti Movement in Maharashtra.
18. Who founded the Sikh religion?
Ans: Guru Nanak
Explanation: Guru Nanak Dev Ji founded Sikhism in the 15th century and preached equality and devotion to one God.
19. Who built the Red Fort in Delhi?
Ans: Shah Jahan
Explanation: The Red Fort (Lal Qila) was constructed in 1648 when Shah Jahan shifted the Mughal capital to Delhi.
20. The Battle of Plassey was fought in which year?
Ans: 1757
Explanation: The Battle of Plassey marked the beginning of British political rule in India after the defeat of Siraj-ud-Daulah by the East India Company.
đ Geography GK Questions (21â35)
21. What is the longest river in India?
Ans: Ganga
Explanation: The Ganga River is the longest in India, flowing approximately 2,525 kilometers from the Gangotri Glacier in Uttarakhand to the Bay of Bengal. It is considered the most sacred river in Hinduism and supports millions of people for agriculture, drinking water, and livelihood across northern India.
22. Which is the highest mountain peak in India?
Ans: Kanchenjunga
Explanation: Kanchenjunga, located on the border of India (Sikkim) and Nepal, is the highest mountain peak in India with an elevation of 8,586 meters above sea level. It is the third-highest mountain in the world after Mount Everest and K2.
23. Which state has the longest coastline?
Ans: Gujarat
Explanation: Gujarat has the longest coastline in India, stretching approximately 1,600 kilometers along the Arabian Sea. The long coastline supports major ports like Kandla and Mundra, making Gujarat an important center for trade and commerce.
24. The Tropic of Cancer passes through how many states?
Ans: 8
Explanation: The Tropic of Cancer passes through eight Indian states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram. It lies at approximately 23.5° North latitude and divides India into tropical and subtropical climatic zones.
25. Which is the largest desert in India?
Ans: Thar Desert
Explanation: The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, is the largest desert in India. It is located mainly in Rajasthan and extends into Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana. The desert experiences extreme temperatures and low rainfall, but it supports unique vegetation and wildlife.
26. Which is the highest dam in India?
Ans: Tehri Dam
Explanation: Located in Uttarakhand, Tehri Dam is the tallest dam in India.
27. Which soil is best for cotton cultivation?
Ans: Black Soil
Explanation: Black soil retains moisture and is ideal for cotton farming.
28. Which Indian state receives the highest rainfall?
Ans: Meghalaya
Explanation: Mawsynram in Meghalaya records the highest annual rainfall.
29. Which is the largest freshwater lake in India?
Ans: Wular Lake
Explanation: Wular Lake, located in Jammu and Kashmir, is the largest freshwater lake in India. It is formed by the Jhelum River and plays a crucial role in flood control and irrigation in the region. The lake is also an important wetland ecosystem and has been designated as a Ramsar site due to its ecological importance.
30. Which river is known as the âSorrow of Biharâ?
Ans: Kosi River
Explanation: The Kosi River is called the âSorrow of Biharâ because it frequently changes its course and causes devastating floods in the state. Originating in the Himalayas in Nepal, the river carries heavy sediment deposits, which contribute to flooding and the destruction of agricultural land.
31. Which plateau is known as the mineral storehouse of India?
Ans: Chota Nagpur Plateau
Explanation: The Chota Nagpur Plateau, spread across Jharkhand, Odisha, Chhattisgarh, and West Bengal, is rich in minerals like coal, iron ore, mica, and bauxite. Due to its abundant mineral resources, it is called the mineral storehouse of India and is a major industrial region.
32. Which is the largest delta in the world?
Ans: Sundarbans Delta
Explanation: The Sundarbans Delta, formed by the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Meghna rivers, is the largest delta in the world. It is located in India and Bangladesh and is famous for its mangrove forests and the Royal Bengal Tiger. The delta plays a crucial role in supporting biodiversity and protecting coastal regions.
33. Which ocean lies south of India?
Ans: Indian Ocean
Explanation: The Indian Ocean lies to the south of India. It is the third-largest ocean in the world and plays an important role in international trade and monsoon climate patterns affecting the Indian subcontinent.
34. Which Indian state has the maximum forest area?
Ans: Madhya Pradesh
Explanation: Madhya Pradesh has the largest forest area in India in terms of total forest cover. The state is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, including Kanha and Bandhavgarh, which are known for their biodiversity.
35. Which wind brings monsoon rainfall to India?
Ans: Southwest Monsoon
Explanation: The Southwest Monsoon winds bring the majority of rainfall to India between June and September. These moisture-laden winds originate over the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal and are essential for agriculture and water supply in the country.
đ Indian Polity GK Questions (36â50)
36. How many Fundamental Rights are there?
Ans: 6
Explanation: Originally, there were 7 Fundamental Rights in the Constitution. However, the Right to Property was removed from the list of Fundamental Rights by the 44th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1978. Currently, there are 6 Fundamental Rights guaranteed under Part III of the Constitution.
37. Who appoints the Prime Minister of India?
Ans: The President
Explanation: The President of India appoints the Prime Minister. Generally, the leader of the majority party or coalition in the Lok Sabha is invited by the President to form the government.
38. Minimum age to become President?
Ans: 35 years
Explanation: According to Article 58 of the Indian Constitution, a person must be at least 35 years old, be a citizen of India, and be qualified to be elected as a member of the Lok Sabha to become President.
39. Total elected Lok Sabha members?
Ans: 543
Explanation: The Lok Sabha, also known as the House of the People, has 543 elected members representing constituencies across India. These members are directly elected by the citizens.
40. Article 370 was related to?
Ans: Jammu & Kashmir
Explanation: Article 370 granted special status to Jammu & Kashmir, allowing it to have its own constitution and autonomy over internal matters. It was abrogated in August 2019.
41. How many Schedules are there in the Indian Constitution?
Ans: 12
Explanation: The Indian Constitution currently has 12 Schedules. These schedules contain additional details about subjects such as states, languages, forms of oaths, and powers of Panchayats and Municipalities.
42. What is the normal tenure of the Lok Sabha?
Ans: 5 years
Explanation: The Lok Sabha has a term of five years from the date of its first sitting. However, it can be dissolved earlier by the President on the advice of the Prime Minister.
43. Who is the head of the Indian Judiciary?
Ans: Chief Justice of India
Explanation: The Chief Justice of India (CJI) is the head of the Supreme Court and the Indian Judiciary. The CJI presides over the Supreme Court and plays a key role in judicial administration.
44. Article 21 of the Indian Constitution deals with which right?
Ans: Right to Life and Personal Liberty
Explanation: Article 21 guarantees that no person shall be deprived of life or personal liberty except according to procedure established by law. It is one of the most important Fundamental Rights.
45. Who can declare a National Emergency in India?
Ans: The President
Explanation: Under Article 352, the President of India can declare a National Emergency in case of war, external aggression, or armed rebellion, on the advice of the Council of Ministers.
46. How many types of emergencies are there in India?
Ans: Three
Explanation: The Indian Constitution provides for three types of Emergency:
- National Emergency (Article 352)
- State Emergency or Presidentâs Rule (Article 356)
- Financial Emergency (Article 360)
47. Which Constitutional Amendment reduced the voting age from 21 to 18 years?
Ans: 61st Constitutional Amendment Act
Explanation: The 61st Amendment Act of 1988 reduced the voting age from 21 years to 18 years to encourage youth participation in democracy.
48. Who presides over the Rajya Sabha?
Ans: Vice President of India
Explanation: The Vice President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha and presides over its proceedings.
49. Which body conducts elections in India?
Ans: Election Commission of India
Explanation: The Election Commission of India is an independent constitutional body responsible for conducting free and fair elections for Parliament, State Legislatures, and the offices of President and Vice President.
50. The Finance Commission is constituted under which Article?
Ans: Article 280
Explanation: Article 280 of the Constitution provides for the establishment of the Finance Commission, which recommends the distribution of financial resources between the Union and the States.
đŹ General Science GK Questions (51â70)
51. Chemical symbol of Gold?
Ans: Au
Explanation: The chemical symbol of Gold is Au, derived from its Latin name Aurum, which means shining dawn. Gold is a precious metal widely used in jewelry, electronics, and currency reserves.
52. Who discovered gravity?
Ans: Isaac Newton
Explanation: Sir Isaac Newton formulated the Law of Universal Gravitation in the 17th century. He explained that every object in the universe attracts every other object with a force called gravity.
53. SI unit of Force?
Ans: Newton
Explanation: The SI unit of force is Newton (N). One Newton is defined as the force required to accelerate a 1 kg mass by 1 meter per second squared.
54. Most abundant gas in the atmosphere?
Ans: Nitrogen
Explanation: Nitrogen makes up about 78% of Earthâs atmosphere. It is essential for plant growth and forms an important part of proteins and DNA.
55. pH value of pure water?
Ans: 7
Explanation: Pure water has a neutral pH of 7 at 25°C. A pH less than 7 indicates acidity, while a pH greater than 7 indicates alkalinity.
56. Which vitamin is produced in the human body when exposed to sunlight?
Ans: Vitamin D
Explanation: Vitamin D is produced in the skin when exposed to sunlight. It helps in calcium absorption and strengthens bones and teeth.
57. What is the largest organ in the human body?
Ans: Skin
Explanation: The skin is the largest organ of the human body. It protects internal organs, regulates temperature, and prevents infection.
58. What is the hardest natural substance on Earth?
Ans: Diamond
Explanation: Diamond is the hardest known natural material. It ranks 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness and is used in cutting and drilling tools.
59. What is the speed of light in a vacuum?
Ans: 3 à 10⸠meters per second
Explanation: The speed of light in a vacuum is approximately 300,000 kilometers per second. It is the fastest speed at which energy or information can travel.
60. Which blood group is known as the universal donor?
Ans: O Negative
Explanation: People with O negative blood group can donate blood to individuals of any blood group because it does not contain A, B, or Rh antigens.
61. What is the SI unit of electric current?
Ans: Ampere
Explanation: The Ampere (A) is the SI unit of electric current. It measures the flow of electric charge per second through a conductor.
62. How many chambers does the human heart have?
Ans: Four
Explanation: The human heart has four chambers: two atria (upper chambers) and two ventricles (lower chambers). It pumps oxygenated and deoxygenated blood throughout the body.
63. What is the chemical formula of water?
Ans: HâO
Explanation: Water consists of two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom. It is essential for all forms of life on Earth.
64. Which planet is known as the Red Planet?
Ans: Mars
Explanation: Mars is called the Red Planet because of the iron oxide (rust) present on its surface, giving it a reddish appearance.
65. Which gas is commonly used to fill balloons?
Ans: Helium
Explanation: Helium is lighter than air and non-flammable, making it safe for filling balloons and airships.
66. Which organ purifies blood in the human body?
Ans: Kidney
Explanation: The kidneys filter waste products and excess water from the blood to form urine, helping maintain fluid and electrolyte balance.
67. Which is the largest planet in our solar system?
Ans: Jupiter
Explanation: Jupiter is the largest planet in the solar system. It is a gas giant and has a strong magnetic field and dozens of moons.
68. What is the SI unit of pressure?
Ans: Pascal
Explanation: The Pascal (Pa) is the SI unit of pressure. One Pascal equals one Newton per square meter.
69. In which part of the plant does photosynthesis occur?
Ans: Leaves
Explanation: Photosynthesis mainly occurs in the leaves, specifically in the chloroplasts that contain chlorophyll. It converts sunlight into chemical energy.
70. Which acid is present in lemon?
Ans: Citric Acid
Explanation: Citric acid is a weak organic acid found in citrus fruits like lemons and oranges. It gives them their sour taste.
đ° Economy GK Questions (71â85)
71. Father of Indian Economics?
Ans: Dadabhai Naoroji
Explanation: Dadabhai Naoroji is known as the Father of Indian Economics because he first explained the âDrain Theory,â which described how wealth was transferred from India to Britain during colonial rule. His work laid the foundation for economic nationalism in India.
72. GDP stands for?
Ans: Gross Domestic Product
Explanation: Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is the total monetary value of all goods and services produced within a countryâs borders in a specific period, usually one year. It is one of the main indicators used to measure a countryâs economic growth.
73. Central Bank of India?
Ans: Reserve Bank of India
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is the central banking institution of India. It controls monetary policy, regulates commercial banks, issues currency, and maintains financial stability in the country.
74. What is Repo Rate?
Ans: Rate at which RBI lends to banks
Explanation: Repo Rate is the interest rate at which the RBI lends short-term funds to commercial banks. When RBI increases the repo rate, loans become expensive, which helps control inflation.
75. RBI was established in?
Ans: 1935
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India was established on April 1, 1935, under the Reserve Bank of India Act, 1934. It was nationalized in 1949 after independence.
76. What is Inflation?
Ans: Rise in the general price level of goods and services
Explanation: Inflation refers to the increase in prices over time, which reduces the purchasing power of money. Moderate inflation is normal in a growing economy, but high inflation can harm economic stability.
77. What is the Fiscal Deficit?
Ans: Excess of total government expenditure over total revenue
Explanation: Fiscal deficit occurs when the governmentâs total spending exceeds its total revenue (excluding borrowings). It indicates how much the government needs to borrow to meet its expenses.
78. Which tax replaced VAT in India?
Ans: GST (Goods and Services Tax)
Explanation: GST was implemented on July 1, 2017, replacing multiple indirect taxes like VAT, service tax, and excise duty. It created a unified tax system across India.
79. What does CRR stand for?
Ans: Cash Reserve Ratio
Explanation: CRR is the percentage of a bankâs total deposits that must be kept as reserves with the RBI. It helps control liquidity and inflation in the economy.
80. What is a Budget?
Ans: Annual financial statement of the government
Explanation: The Union Budget is presented every year by the Finance Minister. It outlines the governmentâs expected revenue and planned expenditure for the upcoming financial year.
81. Which organization regulates the stock market in India?
Ans: SEBI (Securities and Exchange Board of India)
Explanation: SEBI regulates the securities market in India. It protects investorsâ interests and ensures transparency in stock market operations.
82. What is the Reverse Repo Rate?
Ans: The rate at which the RBI borrows money from commercial banks
Explanation: The reverse repo rate is the rate at which the RBI borrows funds from banks. It helps control money supply in the economy.
83. What is Direct Tax?
Ans: Tax paid directly to the government
Explanation: Direct taxes are paid directly by individuals or organizations to the government, such as income tax and corporate tax.
84. What is Indirect Tax?
Ans: Tax collected through intermediaries
Explanation: Indirect taxes are collected by intermediaries (like sellers) from consumers and then paid to the government. GST is an example of indirect tax.
85. What is the currency of India?
Ans: Indian Rupee (âš)
Explanation: The Indian Rupee is the official currency of India. It is issued and regulated by the Reserve Bank of India. The symbol âš was officially adopted in 2010.
đ° Current Affairs 2026 (86â100)
86. What major military exercise began in Uttarakhand in FebruaryâMarch 2026?
Ans: 7th edition of Exercise Dharma Guardian
Explanation: The 7th edition of the India-Japan joint military exercise, Dharma Guardian, commenced at Chaubattia in Uttarakhand on 24 February 2026 and runs until 9 March. It enhances interoperability and semi-urban joint operations between the Indian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.
87. Which Indian city is set to host its first International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD) in March 2026?
Ans: Delhi
Explanation: The inaugural International Film Festival Delhi (IFFD) will take place from 25-31 March 2026 at Bharat Mandapam. The week-long event will showcase over 125 Indian and international films, including premieres, masterclasses, and industry networking sessions, aimed at boosting cultural exchange and film tourism.
88. Which sporting championship is India hosting for the first time in March 2026?
Ans: Commonwealth Kho Kho Championship
Explanation: India is hosting the first Commonwealth Kho Kho Championship in March 2026, featuring 16 menâs and 16 womenâs teams from over 24 nations. The event will promote the traditional Indian sport on a global stage.
89. What unusual weather phenomenon is India expected to face in March 2026?
Ans: Unusually hot weather is affecting agriculture
Explanation: Forecasts indicate hotter-than-normal temperatures for March 2026 across northern and north-western states like Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh. This raises concerns for key crops such as wheat and rapeseed during sensitive growth stages, potentially impacting yields and export prospects.
90. What change in RBI liquidity support is expected to occur after March 2026?
Ans: Additional liquidity support is likely to wind down
Explanation: The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) provided temporary liquidity support earlier in the year to ease short-term money market stress. Bankers indicate this support is expected to end after March 2026, with normal liquidity absorption tools resuming in the next financial year.
91. Which international day, celebrated on March 8, 2026, focuses on womenâs achievements?
Ans: International Womenâs Day
Explanation: International Womenâs Day (March 8) celebrates womenâs social, economic, cultural, and political achievements worldwide while advocating for gender equality.
92. Which global summit on artificial intelligence was held in New Delhi in 2026?
Ans: India-AI Impact Summit 2026
Explanation: The India-AI Impact Summit 2026 began at Bharat Mandapam in New Delhi under the India AI Mission. Organized by the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology, the summit positions India as a global leader in inclusive and development-focused AI dialogue.
93. What important international observance relating to rivers is marked on March 14?
Ans: International Day of Action for Rivers
Explanation: Observed on March 14, this day highlights the critical role of rivers in ecology, culture, and sustainable water management across the world.
94. Which global observance on March 20 promotes environmental awareness?
Ans: World Sparrow Day
Explanation: World Sparrow Day (March 20) focuses on awareness and conservation of sparrows and other common birds, emphasizing biodiversity and environmental protection.
95. World Water Day is observed on which date in March?
Ans: March 22
Explanation: World Water Day (March 22) highlights the importance of freshwater systems, sustainable water use, and equitable access to safe water worldwide.
96. Which day on March 21 focuses on environmental protection and forests?
Ans: World Forestry Day
Explanation: World Forestry Day (March 21) celebrates forests and raises awareness on their conservation for sustainable development and ecological balance.
97. What major space initiative is targeted by ISRO by March 2026?
Ans: Seven space missions including the Gaganyaan test
Explanation: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) set a target to complete seven missions by March 2026, including the first uncrewed test flight of the Gaganyaan human spaceflight programme.
98. What significant agricultural awareness day is observed in March?
Ans: National Vaccination Day (March 16)
Explanation: National Vaccination Day (March 16) promotes immunization awareness to protect children and adults from preventable diseases.
99. Which United Nations-recognized day promotes happiness every March?
Ans: International Day of Happiness
Explanation: March 20 is observed globally as the International Day of Happiness, emphasizing well-being and human flourishing.
100. What major economic shift was highlighted for India entering 2026?
Ans: India becomes the fourth-largest economy
Explanation: India entered 2026 as the worldâs fourth-largest economy, overtaking Japan, reflecting strong GDP growth and economic resilience, although formal IMF confirmation may follow.
đ How to Prepare GK Effectively
- Revise 20 questions daily
- Attempt mock tests weekly
- Follow monthly current affairs
- Focus on repeated exam topics
đ Recommended Practice:
- Ultimate General Knowledge Challenge
- General Knowledge Mega Challenge
- Current Affairs Mega Challenge 2026
- Advanced General Knowledge Quiz â 25 MCQs
â Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
These questions cover frequently asked topics, but regular practice through quizzes is recommended.
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