Q100. The Bhadla Solar Park, one of the largest in the world, is located in which Indian state?
[RRB NTPC (UG) CBT-I, 09 May 2026 Shift 1]
(A) Gujarat
(B) Madhya Pradesh
(C) Rajasthan
(D) Maharashtra
Answer: (C) Rajasthan
Explanation: Bhadla Solar Park is in the arid Phalodi region of Rajasthan. Its high solar irradiation and extensive land availability made it suitable for a large photovoltaic complex. The park is an important landmark in India’s utility-scale solar expansion.
Q99. Which is the largest solar park in India by installed capacity as of 2025?
[RRB NTPC (Graduate) CBT-I, 17 March 2026 Shift 2]
(A) Bhadla Solar Park
(B) Rewa Solar Park
(C) Pavagada Solar Park
(D) Kurnool Ultra Mega Solar Park
Answer: (A) Bhadla Solar Park
Explanation: Bhadla Solar Park in Rajasthan has about 2,245 MW of installed solar capacity. It was developed in multiple phases and is often identified in examination material as India’s largest operational solar park at the period specified.
Q98. The Vindhyachal Super Thermal Power Station is located in which state?
[RRB NTPC (UG) CBT-I, 07 May 2026 Shift 1]
(A) Chhattisgarh
(B) Madhya Pradesh
(C) Rajasthan
(D) Gujarat
Answer: (B) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation: The Vindhyachal Super Thermal Power Station is an NTPC coal-fired generating complex in Singrauli district, Madhya Pradesh. It is a major component of India’s thermal electricity network and has a large multi-unit installed generating capacity.
Q97. The Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant is located in which state?
[RRB NTPC (Graduate) CBT-I, 19 March 2026 Shift 1]
(A) Andhra Pradesh
(B) Tamil Nadu
(C) Kerala
(D) Karnataka
Answer: (B) Tamil Nadu
Explanation: Kudankulam is situated in Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. The station uses Russian-designed VVER pressurised-water reactors and forms a major part of India’s civilian nuclear energy programme, with additional units planned or under construction.
Q96. In which valley of Himachal Pradesh is an experimental geothermal project located?
[DSSSB PRT, 10 April 2026 Shift 1]
(A) Parvati Valley
(B) Kangra Valley
(C) Solang Valley
(D) Spiti Valley
Answer: (A) Parvati Valley
Explanation: Manikaran lies in the Parvati Valley of Kullu district, Himachal Pradesh. Hot springs reveal the region’s geothermal potential. Exploratory and experimental work here has investigated using naturally heated groundwater and subsurface heat for energy applications.
Q95. Where is India’s 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor located?
[DSSSB MTS, 25 July 2026 Shift 3]
(A) Tarapur
(B) Kalpakkam
(C) Rawatbhata
(D) Kudankulam
Answer: (B) Kalpakkam
Explanation: The Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor is located at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu. Fast breeder technology forms the second stage of India’s three-stage nuclear strategy, using fast neutrons to make better use of fissile and fertile nuclear materials.
Q94. Which BARC-developed reactor achieved first criticality with low-enriched uranium fuel?
[SSC GD Constable, 29 May 2026 Shift 1]
(A) PURNIMA
(B) APSARA-U
(C) DHRUVA
(D) KAMINI
Answer: (B) APSARA-U
Explanation: APSARA-U is an upgraded swimming-pool-type research reactor at BARC in Mumbai. It achieved criticality in September 2018 and uses indigenously developed low-enriched uranium fuel. Research reactors support neutron experiments, training and isotope-related applications.
Q93. Which Indian PSU is primarily responsible for large-scale electricity generation nationwide?
[DSSSB Assistant Superintendent, 06 July 2026 Shift 1]
(A) Steel Authority of India Limited
(B) Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
(C) Coal India Limited
(D) NTPC Limited
Answer: (D) NTPC Limited
Explanation: NTPC began as the National Thermal Power Corporation in 1975 and developed into a major integrated power utility. Alongside thermal generation, its portfolio has expanded into hydro and renewable projects and power-related services.
Q92. Why is the solar constant useful when designing a solar power plant?
[RRB Group D, 21 August 2026 Shift 1]
(A) It measures sunshine duration
(B) It states the highest attainable temperature
(C) It indicates incoming solar energy before atmospheric losses
(D) It measures only atmospheric absorption
Answer: (C) It indicates incoming solar energy before atmospheric losses
Explanation: The solar constant is solar irradiance measured outside Earth’s atmosphere at the mean Earth–Sun distance. Solar plant planners combine this reference with atmospheric effects, local weather, tilt and site conditions to estimate photovoltaic electricity production.
Q91. Which private company received an NPCIL order in April 2025 for two 700 MW nuclear reactors in Karnataka?
[DSSSB Assistant Superintendent, 03 July 2026 Shift 1]
(A) Adani Power
(B) Reliance Industries and Infrastructure
(C) Tata Power
(D) Megha Engineering and Infrastructures
Answer: (D) Megha Engineering and Infrastructures
Explanation: Megha Engineering and Infrastructures Limited was reported as the awardee of the project contract. The planned 700 MW units relate to expansion at Kaiga in Karnataka and illustrate the role of infrastructure contractors in civil nuclear construction.
Q90. Which India–Bhutan hydroelectric project was jointly inaugurated during the November 2025 state visit?
[RRB NTPC (Graduate) CBT-I, 16 March 2026 Shift 2]
(A) Punatsangchhu-I, 1200 MW
(B) Chukha, 336 MW
(C) Mangdechhu, 720 MW
(D) Punatsangchhu-II, 1020 MW
Answer: (D) Punatsangchhu-II, 1020 MW
Explanation: Punatsangchhu-II is a 1,020 MW hydropower project in Bhutan developed with India’s support. Cross-border hydropower cooperation supplies clean electricity and forms an important element of bilateral economic and energy relations.
Q89. India aims to increase wind energy capacity from about 42 GW to 140 GW by which year?
[SSC MTS 2025 cycle, held 06 February 2026 Shift 3]
(A) 2030
(B) 2035
(C) 2040
(D) 2050
Answer: (A) 2030
Explanation: The cited wind-power ambition uses 2030 as its target year. Wind expansion is part of the wider move toward non-fossil electricity capacity, alongside solar, hydro and nuclear generation. Targets must be distinguished from actual commissioned capacity.
Q88. Which of the following power projects is nuclear-energy based?
[RRB NTPC (UG) CBT-I, 13 August 2025 Shift 2]
(A) Koyna
(B) Tehri
(C) Kalpakkam
(D) Bhakra Nangal
Answer: (C) Kalpakkam
Explanation: Kalpakkam hosts the Madras Atomic Power Station in Tamil Nadu. Koyna, Tehri and Bhakra Nangal are associated with hydroelectric developments. Identifying the energy source and location of major projects is a common static-GK examination theme.
Q87. The Kopili Hydroelectric Project is located in which state?
[RRB NTPC (UG) CBT-I, 07 August 2025 Shift 3]
(A) Assam
(B) Sikkim
(C) Meghalaya
(D) Arunachal Pradesh
Answer: (A) Assam
Explanation: The Kopili hydroelectric complex is associated with Assam and is operated by NEEPCO. It harnesses river water in the northeastern region. Kopili’s location is an important question for understanding regional power generation and public-sector operators.
Q86. Pykara was the first water-power station of which Indian state?
[RRB NTPC (UG) CBT-I, 19 August 2025 Shift 3]
(A) Tamil Nadu
(B) Kerala
(C) Madhya Pradesh
(D) Odisha
Answer: (A) Tamil Nadu
Explanation: Pykara Hydroelectric Station is in the Nilgiris of Tamil Nadu and dates to the early twentieth century. Its development supported the state’s industrialisation and demonstrated hydropower generation using the elevation and flow of Himalayan-independent southern rivers.
Q85. The Rihand Hydroelectric Project is in which Uttar Pradesh district?
[RRB NTPC (UG) CBT-I, 08 August 2025 Shift 2]
(A) Guna
(B) Sonbhadra
(C) Robertsganj
(D) Saharanpur
Answer: (B) Sonbhadra
Explanation: Rihand Dam and its associated hydropower installations are situated in Sonbhadra district, Uttar Pradesh. The reservoir is known as Govind Ballabh Pant Sagar. The project is associated with the Rihand River, a tributary of the Son.
Q84. The Balimela Power Plant is located in which state?
[RRB NTPC (UG) CBT-II, 20 December 2025]
(A) Andhra Pradesh
(B) Jharkhand
(C) Odisha
(D) Chhattisgarh
Answer: (C) Odisha
Explanation: Balimela is a hydroelectric project in Odisha’s Malkangiri region. It is connected to the Sileru River system and has historically involved water-resource cooperation between neighbouring states for irrigation and electricity production.
Q83. In which year did Calcutta Electric Supply Corporation commission its first thermal station?
[RRB NTPC (UG) CBT-I, 22 August 2025 Shift 2]
(A) 1909
(B) 1916
(C) 1925
(D) 1899
Answer: (D) 1899
Explanation: CESC commissioned early electricity-generating infrastructure in Calcutta in 1899. This was a landmark in the city’s electrification during the colonial period and predates the modern national network of central and state electricity-generating companies.
Q82. Which atomic power station among these had the highest installed capacity in India in 2024?
[MPPSC State Service Prelims, 16 February 2025]
(A) Kakrapar
(B) Kaiga
(C) Kalpakkam
(D) Kudankulam
Answer: (D) Kudankulam
Explanation: Kudankulam’s operational units totalled 2,000 MWe in 2024, greater than the listed alternatives. Located in Tamil Nadu, it operates Russian-designed pressurised-water reactors. The comparison is explicitly tied to the year mentioned in the question.
Q81. What was India’s first commercial nuclear power station?
[MP Police Constable, 01 November 2025 Shift 2]
(A) Narora
(B) Kakrapar
(C) Kudankulam
(D) Tarapur
Answer: (D) Tarapur
Explanation: Tarapur Atomic Power Station in Maharashtra began commercial operations in 1969. Its initial boiling-water reactors marked the start of India’s commercial nuclear electricity generation, preceding later stations at Rajasthan, Kalpakkam, Narora and other sites.
Q80. Who was appointed chairperson of the CERC in 2023?
[MP Police ASI and Subedar Steno, 17 December 2025 Shift 2]
(A) Jishnu Barua
(B) Anil Kumar Jain
(C) P. K. Pujari
(D) Arun Goyal
Answer: (A) Jishnu Barua
Explanation: Jishnu Barua took charge as chairperson of the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission in 2023. CERC regulates key central and inter-state electricity matters including tariffs for specified generators, transmission and electricity trading within its statutory jurisdiction.
Q79. Which district became known as the first to meet its entire electricity demand through solar power?
[RRB NTPC (UG) CBT-I, 21 August 2025 Shift 3]
(A) Silvassa
(B) Kavaratti
(C) Leh
(D) Diu
Answer: (D) Diu
Explanation: Diu became known for meeting local electricity demand through solar installations, including ground-mounted and rooftop plants. It is frequently cited as a pioneering example of distributed and utility-scale solar adoption in a small island district.
Q78. What nuclear power capacity does Union Budget 2025–26 envisage for India by 2047?
[RRB Group D, 08 December 2025 Shift 1]
(A) 80 GW
(B) 100 GW
(C) 150 GW
(D) 50 GW
Answer: (B) 100 GW
Explanation: The Nuclear Energy Mission announced the long-term ambition of 100 GW of nuclear capacity by 2047. This is a planning goal rather than installed capacity in the examination year, and achieving it requires additional reactors and financing.
Q77. In which year was NHPC Limited established?
[DSSSB TGT Sanskrit, 27 August 2025 Shift 2]
(A) 1975
(B) 1965
(C) 1995
(D) 1985
Answer: (A) 1975
Explanation: NHPC was established in 1975 to develop hydroelectric projects in India. It is a public-sector company under the Ministry of Power and is associated with dam-based and run-of-river hydropower schemes across several states.
Q76. With whose cooperation was the NTPC project at Korba established in 1982–83?
[CGPSC Prelims, 09 February 2025]
(A) World Bank
(B) Asian Development Bank
(C) State Bank of India
(D) Central government grant only
Answer: (A) World Bank
Explanation: World Bank support contributed to the development of NTPC’s Korba thermal project in Chhattisgarh. Korba is an important coal and power-generation centre, where fuel availability enabled the expansion of large thermal electricity units.
Q75. Rajasthan’s Anta power project is based mainly on which energy source?
[RSMSSB JE Civil, 07 February 2025]
(A) Coal
(B) Natural gas
(C) Atomic energy
(D) Water
Answer: (B) Natural gas
Explanation: NTPC’s Anta station in Rajasthan’s Baran district is a gas-based combined-cycle power plant. Such stations use gas turbines and recover exhaust heat in a steam cycle, improving fuel efficiency compared with simple-cycle generation.
Q74. Which nuclear power plant–state pair is incorrectly matched?
[IB Security Assistant, 30 September 2025 Shift 4]
(A) Kaiga – Karnataka
(B) Narora – Gujarat
(C) Madras – Tamil Nadu
(D) Tarapur – Maharashtra
Answer: (B) Narora – Gujarat
Explanation: Narora is situated in Uttar Pradesh, not Gujarat. Kaiga is in Karnataka, Madras Atomic Power Station at Kalpakkam is in Tamil Nadu, and Tarapur is in Maharashtra. Plant–state pairings frequently appear in railway and SSC examinations.
Q73. Which listed Indian state has the highest assessed wind energy potential?
[RRB JE Civil, 22 April 2025 Shift 2]
(A) Punjab
(B) Gujarat
(C) Himachal Pradesh
(D) Uttar Pradesh
Answer: (B) Gujarat
Explanation: Gujarat has extensive coastal and inland wind resources and ranks high in assessed wind-power potential at standard hub heights. Assessment of potential differs from actual installed generation, which depends on investment, transmission access and turbine development.
Q72. If wind speed doubles, by what factor does wind-power density increase?
[RRB JE Electrical Re-exam, 04 June 2025]
(A) 6
(B) 8
(C) 4
(D) 2
Answer: (B) 8
Explanation: Available wind power per unit area is proportional to the cube of wind velocity, other variables held constant. Doubling wind speed therefore multiplies the theoretical power density by two cubed, or eight.
Q71. In which city is the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre located?
[Delhi Police Constable, 27 December 2025 Shift 2]
(A) Mumbai
(B) Bengaluru
(C) Hyderabad
(D) Kolkata
Answer: (A) Mumbai
Explanation: BARC is based at Trombay in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Its predecessor, the Atomic Energy Establishment Trombay, began work in 1954. The centre undertakes nuclear research, reactor development, isotope production and related scientific activities.
Q70. The Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay, established in 1954 was later renamed as what?
[RRB NTPC (UG) CBT-I, 21 August 2025 Shift 2]
(A) Indira Gandhi Atomic Centre
(B) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre
(C) Indian Institute of Nuclear Science
(D) Nehru Institute of Atomic Energy
Answer: (B) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre
Explanation: The Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay, was renamed Bhabha Atomic Research Centre after the death of physicist Homi J. Bhabha. The institute is central to research supporting India’s nuclear science, engineering and reactor development.
Q69. Salal Power Project is situated on which river?
[UPSC CDS-I General Knowledge Official Paper, 13 April 2025]
(A) Chenab
(B) Jhelum
(C) Nubra
(D) Shyok
Answer: (A) Chenab
Explanation: Salal is a hydroelectric installation on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir. NHPC operates the station, whose two stages have a combined installed capacity of approximately 690 MW. The project is important for power generation in northern India.
Q68. The joint venture named ASHVINI to develop nuclear power facilities in India is between which organisations?
[UPSC NDA-I General Ability Official Paper, 13 April 2025]
(A) NPCIL and NTPC
(B) TMC and VECC
(C) HWB and BARC
(D) IGCAR and NTPC
Answer: (A) NPCIL and NTPC
Explanation: ASHVINI is a joint venture of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited and NTPC Limited. It brings together the nuclear reactor experience of NPCIL and the power-generation and project-execution capabilities of NTPC for nuclear electricity projects.
Q67. Talcher Thermal Power Station is located in which state?
[SSC MTS, 12 November 2024 Shift 2]
(A) Andhra Pradesh
(B) Rajasthan
(C) Bihar
(D) Odisha
Answer: (D) Odisha
Explanation: Talcher is an important coal-based power-generation centre in Angul district of Odisha. Its proximity to coalfields supports major thermal stations, including NTPC installations supplying electricity to the regional and national grids.
Q66. Kakrapar Atomic Power Plant is located in which state?
[SSC MTS, 12 November 2024 Shift 3]
(A) Rajasthan
(B) Maharashtra
(C) Gujarat
(D) Tamil Nadu
Answer: (C) Gujarat
Explanation: Kakrapar Atomic Power Station is in Gujarat and is operated by NPCIL. It has pressurised heavy-water reactor technology. The project is distinct from Rawatbhata in Rajasthan and Tarapur in Maharashtra.
Q65. Which is NOT a hydroelectric power project?
[SSC MTS, 28 October 2024 Shift 1]
(A) Bhakra Nangal
(B) Damodar Valley
(C) Sambhar Lake
(D) Kopili
Answer: (C) Sambhar Lake
Explanation: Sambhar Lake in Rajasthan is primarily a saltwater lake and salt-production area, not a hydropower scheme. Bhakra Nangal, Damodar Valley and Kopili are all associated with hydroelectric generation and multipurpose river development.
Q64. Narora Nuclear Power Plant is situated in which state?
[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 05 July 2024 Shift 4]
(A) Tamil Nadu
(B) Uttar Pradesh
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Karnataka
Answer: (B) Uttar Pradesh
Explanation: Narora Atomic Power Station is located near Narora in Bulandshahr district, Uttar Pradesh. NPCIL operates two pressurised heavy-water reactors at the site. The plant should not be confused with Kakrapar in Gujarat.
Q63. Mundra Thermal Power Plant is situated in which district of Gujarat?
[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 09 July 2024 Shift 2]
(A) Kheda
(B) Jamnagar
(C) Kutch
(D) Gandhinagar
Answer: (C) Kutch
Explanation: Mundra lies in Kutch district on the Gujarat coast. The Mundra area hosts large coal-based generation infrastructure linked to port access, allowing large quantities of fuel to be delivered for electricity production.
Q62. Which body regulates key electricity-sector matters under the Electricity Act, 2003 at central level?
[MPPGCL JE Electrical, 01 June 2024 Shift 1]
(A) Central Electricity Regulatory Commission
(B) Ministry of Power
(C) Bureau of Energy Efficiency
(D) State Electricity Boards
Answer: (A) Central Electricity Regulatory Commission
Explanation: CERC is a statutory central electricity regulator with powers under the Electricity Act, 2003. It has functions involving specified tariffs and inter-state electricity transactions; state electricity regulatory commissions handle matters within their own jurisdictions.
Q61. Which body determines tariffs for inter-state transmission under the Electricity Act, 2003?
[MPPGCL JE Electrical, 01 June 2024 Shift 1]
(A) State Electricity Regulatory Commission
(B) Central Electricity Regulatory Commission
(C) Both commissions jointly
(D) Joint Commission
Answer: (B) Central Electricity Regulatory Commission
Explanation: Central Electricity Regulatory Commission has authority over inter-state transmission tariff matters under the electricity law. State commissions principally oversee intra-state tariff and other matters, making the division of jurisdiction important for examination questions.
Q60. How is overall efficiency of a thermal power plant expressed using major components?
[SSC JE Electrical, 05 June 2024 Shift 3]
(A) Carnot efficiency alone
(B) Rankine efficiency alone
(C) Regenerative-cycle efficiency alone
(D) Boiler efficiency × turbine efficiency × generator efficiency
Answer: (D) Boiler efficiency × turbine efficiency × generator efficiency
Explanation: A conventional steam thermal station converts fuel energy to steam heat, turbine shaft work and electrical output. Multiplying the efficiencies of the boiler, turbine and generator gives an approximation of the full conversion-chain efficiency.
Q59. Which government company developed India’s 500 MWe Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor project at Kalpakkam?
[APPSC Group-I Prelims, 17 March 2024]
(A) BARC
(B) CIMFR
(C) IGCAR
(D) BHAVINI
Answer: (D) BHAVINI
Explanation: Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited, or BHAVINI, is responsible for construction and commissioning of the Kalpakkam PFBR. IGCAR contributes key research and design expertise, a distinction frequently tested in nuclear-energy questions.
Q58. In which year was the Indira Gandhi Centre for Atomic Research established?
[MPTET Varg 3, 14 November 2024 Shift 1]
(A) 1963
(B) 1968
(C) 1971
(D) 1978
Answer: (C) 1971
Explanation: IGCAR was established in 1971 at Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu. It conducts advanced nuclear research, especially in fast-reactor technology and associated fuel cycles, in support of India’s wider three-stage atomic energy programme.
Q57. Marwa (Madwa) thermal power station was established in which Chhattisgarh district?
[CGPSC Prelims General Studies, 2023]
(A) Kawardha
(B) Janjgir-Champa
(C) Korba
(D) Surguja
Answer: (B) Janjgir-Champa
Explanation: The Marwa–Tendubhata thermal power project is in Janjgir-Champa district, Chhattisgarh. Its coal-based generating units contribute to the state’s electricity supply and are distinct from the better-known NTPC Korba project.
Q56. Bihar’s first floating solar power plant was constructed at which place?
[68th BPSC Prelims, 12 February 2023]
(A) Kadirabad, Darbhanga
(B) Dilbarpur, Darbhanga
(C) Jamalpur, Darbhanga
(D) More than one of the above
Answer: (A) Kadirabad, Darbhanga
Explanation: The first floating solar installation cited in Bihar state GK is at Kadirabad in Darbhanga. Floating photovoltaic panels occupy water surfaces and provide another way of expanding solar capacity where open land is constrained.
Q55. Which is the largest onshore wind farm in India among these options?
[MP Forest Guard and Jail Prahari, 19 June 2023 Shift 1]
(A) Muppandal Wind Farm
(B) Alta Wind Energy Center
(C) Jaisalmer Wind Park
(D) Los Vientos Wind Farm
Answer: (A) Muppandal Wind Farm
Explanation: Muppandal Wind Farm in Tamil Nadu’s Kanyakumari district is a leading Indian onshore wind cluster. The Aralvaimozhi mountain pass channels strong winds, making the area particularly suitable for turbine installations.
Q54. BARC researchers reported elevated background radiation in certain areas of which state in March 2023?
[SSC CHSL 2022 Tier-II, held 26 June 2023]
(A) Himachal Pradesh
(B) Rajasthan
(C) Kerala
(D) Madhya Pradesh
Answer: (C) Kerala
Explanation: A BARC study examined natural background radiation across India and reported particularly high levels in parts of Kerala. Naturally occurring radionuclides in local minerals, especially coastal monazite-rich sands, can influence measured radiation.
Q53. Arrange these thermal power project locations east-to-west: 1 Kota, 2 Namrup, 3 Obra, 4 Parichha.
[Bihar Senior Secondary Teacher Chemistry, 26 August 2023 Shift 2]
(A) 1–2–3–4
(B) 2–4–1–3
(C) 2–3–4–1
(D) More than one of the above
Answer: (C) 2–3–4–1
Explanation: Namrup is in Assam, Obra and Parichha are in Uttar Pradesh, and Kota is in Rajasthan. Reading their longitudes roughly from east to west yields Namrup, Obra, Parichha and Kota.
Q52. Where is the geothermal field Puga Valley located?
[OSSC TGT, 11 March 2023 Shift 2]
(A) Lakshadweep
(B) Andaman and Nicobar Islands
(C) Ladakh
(D) Jammu and Kashmir
Answer: (C) Ladakh
Explanation: Puga Valley is in Ladakh’s Himalayan geothermal belt. It is known for hot springs and high subsurface heat flow, making it an important prospect for geothermal energy development and a recurring location-based question.
Q51. Kawas Thermal Power Station is located in which state?
[SSC MTS 2022 cycle, held 04 May 2023 Shift 1]
(A) Gujarat
(B) Maharashtra
(C) West Bengal
(D) Rajasthan
Answer: (A) Gujarat
Explanation: Kawas is a gas-based power station operated by NTPC near Surat in Gujarat. Gas turbines and steam-cycle heat recovery distinguish such combined-cycle stations from coal-fired thermal power plants elsewhere in the country.
Q50. Which site among the following does NOT have a nuclear power plant?
[SSC CGL Tier-I, 01 December 2022 Shift 1]
(A) Vijayawada
(B) Narora
(C) Tarapur
(D) Rawatbhata
Answer: (A) Vijayawada
Explanation: Vijayawada is associated with a thermal power station, whereas Narora, Tarapur and Rawatbhata are nuclear electricity sites. The question tests the classification of Indian generating stations rather than reactor technology alone.
Q49. At which listed place is an atomic power station located?
[SSC CGL Tier-I, 12 December 2022 Shift 1]
(A) Hirakud
(B) Naharkatiya
(C) Kakrapar
(D) Tatipaka
Answer: (C) Kakrapar
Explanation: Kakrapar Atomic Power Station is located in Gujarat and operated by NPCIL. Hirakud is known for a multipurpose dam, while Naharkatiya and Tatipaka are more closely associated with petroleum and gas activities.
Q48. How many nuclear power plant sites were recorded in India as of December 2021?
[RRB NTPC CBT-II Level 6, 09 May 2022 Shift 1]
(A) 7
(B) 9
(C) 6
(D) 10
Answer: (A) 7
Explanation: In the cited historical count, India’s operating nuclear reactors were grouped at seven power-station sites. Counts of individual reactors and counts of plant sites are different and should be read against the question’s reference date.
Q47. In which Rajasthan district was Bhadla Solar Park located at the time of the exam?
[RPSC School Lecturer Group B, 15 October 2022]
(A) Jodhpur
(B) Barmer
(C) Jaisalmer
(D) Bikaner
Answer: (A) Jodhpur
Explanation: At the time of this examination, Bhadla Solar Park was identified with Jodhpur district, Rajasthan. Later administrative changes may affect its present district description, but do not change the answer to the historical PYQ.
Q46. To which PSU did the government transfer its stake in NEEPCO and THDC India Limited?
[JKSSB Sub Inspector, 13 December 2022 Shift 1]
(A) BHEL
(B) NTPC Limited
(C) NHPC Limited
(D) ONGC
Answer: (B) NTPC Limited
Explanation: NTPC acquired the Government of India’s holdings in NEEPCO and THDC India Limited as part of a restructuring and disinvestment initiative. The transaction expanded NTPC’s exposure beyond conventional thermal electricity to other power-development activities.
Q45. Which state government proposed a large floating solar project at Omkareshwar?
[BPSC Assistant Engineer General Studies, 24 March 2022]
(A) Tamil Nadu
(B) West Bengal
(C) Karnataka
(D) Madhya Pradesh
Answer: (D) Madhya Pradesh
Explanation: The Omkareshwar floating solar initiative is associated with Madhya Pradesh. Panels are mounted on floating structures on reservoir water, reducing the need for land while contributing to India’s renewable generation programme.
Q44. Which among the following was identified as the world’s largest solar park in the cited exam?
[OPSC Assistant Section Officer GK, 27 August 2022]
(A) Benban Solar Park, Egypt
(B) Bhadla Solar Park, India
(C) Hainan Solar Park, China
(D) Noor Abu Dhabi, UAE
Answer: (B) Bhadla Solar Park, India
Explanation: Bhadla in Rajasthan was identified in the exam as a leading large solar park. Comparisons of the world’s largest facilities can change with new projects, so the claimed ranking should be understood for the question’s examination period.
Q43. Puga Valley in Ladakh is principally known for which form of energy?
[OSSC Welfare Extension Officer, 17 December 2022 Shift 3]
(A) Wind energy
(B) Ocean energy
(C) Nuclear energy
(D) Geothermal energy
Answer: (D) Geothermal energy
Explanation: Puga Valley contains hot springs and other evidence of a high geothermal gradient. Its location in the Himalayan geothermal belt makes it a prominent Indian candidate for exploration of electricity production from subsurface heat.
Q42. What must be true of the breeding ratio of a breeder nuclear reactor?
[BPSC Assistant Engineer Mechanical, 14 October 2022]
(A) Less than 1
(B) Equal to 1
(C) Greater than 1
(D) Tends to infinity
Answer: (C) Greater than 1
Explanation: A breeder reactor produces more fissile material than it consumes. Consequently, its breeding ratio—the amount created divided by the amount consumed—must exceed one, enabling better exploitation of fertile materials such as uranium-238.
Q41. Identify the Indian state: it is rich in rocks and minerals, has major chrysotile asbestos deposits, and contains the Neelam Sanjiva Reddy Sagar Hydel Project.
[UPSC CDS-II General Knowledge Official Paper, 04 September 2022]
(A) Jharkhand
(B) Rajasthan
(C) Andhra Pradesh
(D) Chhattisgarh
Answer: (C) Andhra Pradesh
Explanation: Andhra Pradesh meets the clues given in the examination. Neelam Sanjiva Reddy Sagar is associated with the Srisailam hydropower scheme on the Krishna River at the Andhra Pradesh–Telangana border, a major multipurpose river development.
Q40. Sharavati Hydroelectric Project is located in which state?
[WBCS Prelims, 22 August 2021]
(A) Kerala
(B) Karnataka
(C) Maharashtra
(D) Madhya Pradesh
Answer: (B) Karnataka
Explanation: The Sharavathi hydropower complex is situated in Karnataka and uses water from the Sharavathi River. Its development is associated with the Western Ghats and Karnataka’s long-established hydroelectric generating system.
Q39. On which river was the Idukki Hydroelectric Project built?
[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 03 April 2021 Shift 1]
(A) Kosi
(B) Ganga
(C) Tapti
(D) Periyar
Answer: (D) Periyar
Explanation: Idukki Hydroelectric Project is constructed on the Periyar River in Kerala. The project includes a distinctive high arch dam and is a major component of the state’s hydropower electricity supply.
Q38. India’s Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor is located at which site?
[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 27 March 2021 Shift 1]
(A) Kudankulam
(B) Kalpakkam
(C) Tarapur
(D) Kaiga
Answer: (B) Kalpakkam
Explanation: Kalpakkam in Tamil Nadu hosts the Prototype Fast Breeder Reactor, a strategic facility for second-stage nuclear fuel-cycle technology. The fast breeder approach aims to produce additional fissile material while generating electricity.
Q37. Where is the headquarters of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited?
[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 07 April 2021 Shift 1]
(A) Delhi
(B) Kanpur
(C) Guwahati
(D) Mumbai
Answer: (D) Mumbai
Explanation: NPCIL is headquartered in Mumbai and oversees the construction and operation of many of India’s commercial nuclear power stations. The organisation is a public-sector enterprise working under the Department of Atomic Energy.
Q36. What does BARC stand for?
[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 22 February 2021 Shift 1]
(A) Bhabha Aerospace Research Centre
(B) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre
(C) Bhabha Aromatic Research Centre
(D) Bhabha Atomic Rehabilitation Centre
Answer: (B) Bhabha Atomic Research Centre
Explanation: BARC stands for Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. Located in Trombay, Mumbai, it carries out research in nuclear science, reactor engineering, radiation applications and related technologies, playing a key role in India’s civilian atomic programme.
Q35. BARC proposed its first public–private partnership research reactor in January 2021 for producing what?
[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 24 July 2021 Shift 1]
(A) Medical radiology
(B) Radiography medicines
(C) Nuclear medicines
(D) Diagnostic medicines
Answer: (C) Nuclear medicines
Explanation: BARC’s proposed public–private research reactor was intended to strengthen domestic production of nuclear-medicine isotopes. These materials are used in healthcare diagnostics and therapies and can be produced through carefully controlled irradiation processes.
Q34. Which was Asia’s first nuclear research reactor?
[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 31 July 2021 Shift 2]
(A) ZERLINA
(B) CIRUS
(C) Dhruva
(D) Apsara
Answer: (D) Apsara
Explanation: Apsara achieved criticality in August 1956 at Trombay. It was Asia’s first nuclear research reactor and served as an early platform for neutron science, radioisotope research and the training of nuclear specialists.
Q33. As of January 2021, which was the largest thermal power station in India among the options?
[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 24 July 2021 Shift 2]
(A) Vindhyachal Thermal Station
(B) Tiroda Thermal Station
(C) Talcher Super Thermal Station
(D) Mundra Thermal Station
Answer: (A) Vindhyachal Thermal Station
Explanation: NTPC’s Vindhyachal station in Madhya Pradesh had a larger installed capacity than the listed alternatives at the specified time. The large generating complex is located in the Singrauli coal and energy region.
Q32. Which thermal power plant–location pair is incorrect?
[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 27 February 2021 Shift 2]
(A) Neyveli – Tamil Nadu
(B) Panki – Uttar Pradesh
(C) Korba – Chhattisgarh
(D) Talcher – Assam
Answer: (D) Talcher – Assam
Explanation: Talcher is in Odisha, not Assam. Neyveli in Tamil Nadu, Panki in Uttar Pradesh and Korba in Chhattisgarh are well-known thermal electricity centres, so matching plant names to states is essential.
Q31. Tuticorin Thermal Power Station is situated in which state?
[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 08 April 2021 Shift 1]
(A) Tamil Nadu
(B) Telangana
(C) Karnataka
(D) Maharashtra
Answer: (A) Tamil Nadu
Explanation: Tuticorin, also known as Thoothukudi, lies in Tamil Nadu. Its thermal station is part of the southern electricity grid and is historically associated with coal-fired steam-electric generation.
Q30. Which of these statements about Indian power stations is correct?
[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 17 February 2021 Shift 2]
(A) Kudankulam is in Kerala
(B) Mundra is in Madhya Pradesh
(C) Narora is in Uttar Pradesh
(D) Talcher is in Andhra Pradesh
Answer: (C) Narora is in Uttar Pradesh
Explanation: Narora is a nuclear generating station in Uttar Pradesh. By contrast, Kudankulam is in Tamil Nadu, Mundra is in Gujarat and Talcher is in Odisha, making the third location statement the correct one.
Q29. Tapovan Vishnugad Hydroelectric Project is located in which state?
[SSC CGL 2020 Tier-I, held 16 August 2021 Shift 1]
(A) Himachal Pradesh
(B) Ladakh
(C) Uttarakhand
(D) Jammu and Kashmir
Answer: (C) Uttarakhand
Explanation: The Tapovan Vishnugad project is in Uttarakhand’s Chamoli district on the Dhauliganga River. It is associated with NTPC and uses the Himalayan river’s gradient for hydropower generation.
Q28. Where is the headquarters of NTPC Limited located?
[UP Police ASI, 05 December 2021 Shift 2]
(A) New Delhi
(B) Chennai
(C) Kolkata
(D) Mumbai
Answer: (A) New Delhi
Explanation: NTPC’s corporate headquarters is in New Delhi. The company began in 1975 with a focus on thermal power and now participates in a wider range of electricity-generation and energy-development activities.
Q27. Which NTPC plant listed here is NOT based on natural gas?
[Allahabad High Court ARO, 15 December 2021 Shift 1]
(A) Anta, Rajasthan
(B) Auraiya, Uttar Pradesh
(C) Singrauli, Uttar Pradesh
(D) Kawas, Gujarat
Answer: (C) Singrauli, Uttar Pradesh
Explanation: Singrauli Super Thermal Power Station is coal-based. Anta, Auraiya and Kawas are important gas-fired power stations operated by NTPC. The question differentiates the principal fuels used in major thermal generating facilities.
Q26. Why are some nuclear reactors in India under IAEA safeguards while others are not?
[UPSC CSE Prelims GS Paper I, 2020]
(A) Some use uranium and others thorium
(B) Some use imported uranium and others domestic supplies
(C) Some are foreign operated and others domestic
(D) Some are state owned and others privately owned
Answer: (B) Some use imported uranium and others domestic supplies
Explanation: Under India’s civil-nuclear arrangements, designated civilian nuclear facilities using imported material are subject to IAEA safeguards. The system verifies that safeguarded nuclear material remains in peaceful use and is not diverted to prohibited activities.
Q25. Kiru Hydroelectric Project is situated in which territory?
[WBCS Prelims, 2020]
(A) Telangana
(B) Kerala
(C) Jammu and Kashmir
(D) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: (C) Jammu and Kashmir
Explanation: Kiru is a hydroelectric development on the Chenab River in Jammu and Kashmir’s Kishtwar region. It is associated with Chenab Valley Power Projects and is part of efforts to utilise Himalayan hydropower resources.
Q24. Which of the following Indian public-sector companies generates electricity?
[MPSC State Service Mains GS IV, 2020]
(A) NHPC
(B) NPCIL
(C) NTPC
(D) All of the above
Answer: (D) All of the above
Explanation: NHPC generates hydropower, NPCIL operates nuclear generating stations and NTPC operates a large thermal and diversified generation portfolio. All three are publicly owned energy-sector enterprises contributing to electricity supply.
Q23. What was India’s first atomic research reactor?
[Karnataka Police Civil SI, 2020]
(A) Zerlina
(B) Dhruva
(C) Apsara
(D) Kamini
Answer: (C) Apsara
Explanation: Apsara was India’s first nuclear research reactor, reaching criticality in 1956 at Trombay. It preceded later research installations such as Dhruva and KAMINI, which serve different scientific and technical purposes.
Q22. Rammam Hydroelectric Project is located in which West Bengal district?
[WBCS Prelims, 2019]
(A) Purulia
(B) Bankura
(C) Jalpaiguri
(D) Darjeeling
Answer: (D) Darjeeling
Explanation: The Rammam hydropower project lies in the Darjeeling region of West Bengal. It makes use of the Rammam River’s flow and gradient in the eastern Himalayas and is associated with run-of-river generation.
Q21. Puga Valley, a geothermal area, is located in which region?
[Telangana High Court Junior Assistant, 06 November 2019 Shift 1]
(A) Arunachal Pradesh
(B) Himachal Pradesh
(C) Sikkim
(D) Ladakh
Answer: (D) Ladakh
Explanation: Puga Valley in Ladakh is known for naturally heated groundwater, hot springs and geothermal surface features. Its high heat-flow potential makes it an important Indian geothermal exploration location.
Q20. Manikaran in Himachal Pradesh is known mainly for which energy source?
[HTET TGT Social Studies, 2019]
(A) Solar energy
(B) Wind energy
(C) Geothermal energy
(D) Atomic energy
Answer: (C) Geothermal energy
Explanation: Manikaran’s famous hot springs result from geothermal heat beneath the Himalayan terrain. The site’s thermal activity has attracted scientific investigations into direct use and experimental energy generation.
Q19. Which is the major source of electric power in Chhattisgarh?
[CGPSC Civil Service, 2018]
(A) Thermal power
(B) Hydropower
(C) Solar power
(D) Wind power
Answer: (A) Thermal power
Explanation: Chhattisgarh has substantial coal resources and hosts large thermal generating centres such as Korba. Consequently, coal-based thermal electricity has historically dominated the state’s power-generation mix over other sources.
Q18. Which enactment was the principal framework governing India’s power sector at the examination date?
[DDA JE Electrical and Mechanical, 25 April 2018]
(A) Indian Electricity Act, 1910
(B) Electricity Supply Act, 1948
(C) Electricity Act, 2000
(D) Electricity Act, 2003
Answer: (D) Electricity Act, 2003
Explanation: The Electricity Act, 2003 consolidated laws on generation, transmission, distribution, trading and electricity use. It established a modern regulatory framework with important responsibilities for central and state electricity regulatory commissions.
Q17. What is the upper installed-capacity limit used in India to classify a small hydropower project?
[MPPSC Assistant Engineer Civil, 2017]
(A) 25 MW
(B) 100 MW
(C) 550 MW
(D) 1000 MW
Answer: (A) 25 MW
Explanation: India’s small hydropower category covers projects up to 25 MW installed capacity. This distinction supports separate policy treatment of small hydro compared with much larger reservoir and river-based hydropower stations.
Q16. Statement I: Nuclear power plants are suited to baseload operation.
Statement II: Conventional nuclear reactors do not readily respond to fluctuations in load.
Choose the answer as framed in the paper.
[UPSC Engineering Services Electronics, 2017]
(A) Both true; II explains I
(B) Both true; II does not explain I
(C) I true; II false
(D) I false; II true
Answer: (A) Both true; II explains I
Explanation: The examination’s conventional engineering framing treats nuclear stations as principally baseload generators because their operation and economics favour steady output. Actual reactor load-following capability depends on reactor design and grid arrangements, so the historical wording is simplified.
Q15. Which fuel is prominently used in a fast breeder nuclear reactor?
[DSSSB TGT Computer Science, 21 May 2017]
(A) Uranium-235
(B) Plutonium
(C) Thorium
(D) Radium
Answer: (B) Plutonium
Explanation: Fast breeder reactors commonly use plutonium-containing fuel, often mixed with uranium oxide. Fast neutrons can convert fertile uranium-238 into additional plutonium-239, allowing the reactor to produce more fissile material than it consumes.
Q14. Which DAE company is responsible for constructing and commissioning fast breeder reactors in India?
[Gujarat Engineering Services GS, 2017]
(A) NPCIL
(B) AERB
(C) BARC
(D) BHAVINI
Answer: (D) BHAVINI
Explanation: BHAVINI, or Bharatiya Nabhikiya Vidyut Nigam Limited, is the special-purpose public company established for fast breeder reactor construction and commissioning. Research institutions such as IGCAR provide supporting reactor-development expertise.
Q13. The Atomic Energy Amendment Bill of 2015 sought to amend which Act?
[WBCS Prelims, 2016]
(A) Atomic Energy Act, 1962
(B) Atomic Energy Act, 1963
(C) Atomic Energy Act, 1964
(D) Atomic Energy Act, 1965
Answer: (A) Atomic Energy Act, 1962
Explanation: The proposed amendment dealt with the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. It sought changes enabling joint ventures among eligible government companies for nuclear power projects while maintaining legal controls on atomic energy activities.
Q12. In which state is the Manikaran geothermal-energy site?
[MPPSC General Studies, 2016]
(A) Arunachal Pradesh
(B) Jammu and Kashmir
(C) Himachal Pradesh
(D) Uttarakhand
Answer: (C) Himachal Pradesh
Explanation: Manikaran is a hot-spring and geothermal locality in Himachal Pradesh’s Kullu region. It is a significant Indian example of geothermal prospects in a mountainous setting affected by deep crustal heat and groundwater circulation.
Q11. Which is a renewable energy source?
[MPPSC General Studies, 2016]
(A) Coal
(B) Nuclear energy
(C) Petrol
(D) Solar energy
Answer: (D) Solar energy
Explanation: Solar radiation is replenished naturally and can be converted to electricity with photovoltaic devices. Coal and petroleum are exhaustible fossil resources, while nuclear fuel consists of finite mined materials in conventional reactors.
Q10. Which option names an atomic research centre in India?
[PSTCL JE Electrical, 08 October 2016]
(A) NIN
(B) BARC
(C) CMIR
(D) ICRISAT
Answer: (B) BARC
Explanation: BARC is India’s principal nuclear research institution at Trombay, Mumbai. It performs research on reactor design, nuclear materials, radiation technologies and isotopes, whereas the other listed organisations concern different scientific fields.
Q9. The Kudankulam station that began commercial electricity production in 2014 is in which state?
[WBCS Prelims, 2015]
(A) Tamil Nadu
(B) Karnataka
(C) Kerala
(D) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: (A) Tamil Nadu
Explanation: Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant is in Tamil Nadu’s Tirunelveli district. Its first VVER unit began commercial operation in 2014, establishing a major nuclear electricity facility through India–Russia cooperation.
Q8. Manikaran geothermal energy site is located in which state?
[Jharkhand Civil Service, 2015]
(A) Arunachal Pradesh
(B) Himachal Pradesh
(C) Jammu and Kashmir
(D) Uttarakhand
Answer: (B) Himachal Pradesh
Explanation: The Manikaran site is in Himachal Pradesh’s Parvati Valley and is noted for its hot springs. It is a long-recognised location for geothermal energy exploration and related research in India.
Q7. Uran natural-gas based power project is located in which Maharashtra district?
[Maharashtra Zilla Parishad Clerk, Nagpur, 2015]
(A) Thane
(B) Raigad
(C) Ratnagiri
(D) Sindhudurg
Answer: (B) Raigad
Explanation: Uran Gas Turbine Power Station is in Raigad district, Maharashtra. Natural gas is used as fuel for the generating units, distinguishing the installation from Maharashtra’s large coal-fired power stations.
Q6. Which listed element is used in nuclear fission fuel and nuclear weapons?
[MPPSC General Studies, 2014]
(A) Zirconium
(B) Uranium
(C) Molybdenum
(D) Vanadium
Answer: (B) Uranium
Explanation: Uranium contains fissile isotopes, most notably uranium-235, capable of sustaining nuclear fission under suitable conditions. Nuclear electricity generation uses controlled chain reactions, whereas weapons involve very different engineered arrangements and safeguards.
Q5. Statement I: A fast breeder reactor does not require a moderator.
Statement II: Parasitic neutron absorption is low.
Select the appropriate answer.
[UPSC Engineering Services Mechanical, 2014]
(A) Both true; II explains I
(B) Both true; II does not explain I
(C) I true; II false
(D) I false; II true
Answer: (A) Both true; II explains I
Explanation: Fast breeders seek to preserve high-energy neutrons, so they generally omit moderators that would slow them. Neutron economy is important for converting fertile material into fissile material while sustaining the fission chain reaction.
Q4. Which source of electricity did the paper identify as most suitable for sustainable development among the choices?
[UPPSC Civil Services Prelims, 2012]
(A) Coal
(B) Mineral oil and gas
(C) Hydroelectricity
(D) Atomic energy
Answer: (C) Hydroelectricity
Explanation: Hydropower uses the renewable water cycle and produces low direct emissions while generating electricity. However, modern assessments also recognise the ecological and social effects of dams, so the historical exam answer reflects the listed alternatives.
Q3. Which power project among the following is based on natural gas?
[Rajasthan 3rd Grade Teacher Social Studies (Jalore), 2012]
(A) Ramgarh
(B) Dholpur
(C) Bhiwadi
(D) Jalippa
Answer: (A) Ramgarh
Explanation: Ramgarh in Rajasthan’s Jaisalmer district hosts a gas-based thermal power station. It differs from coal-based stations and from hydroelectric installations, and represents Rajasthan’s early efforts to utilise gas for power generation.
Q2. Which listed project is NOT based on natural gas?
[Rajasthan 3rd Grade Teacher Social Studies (Jhalawar), 2012]
(A) Auraiya
(B) Anta
(C) Narora
(D) Ramgarh
Answer: (C) Narora
Explanation: Narora is a nuclear power station in Uttar Pradesh and does not depend on natural-gas combustion. Auraiya, Anta and Ramgarh are associated with gas-based thermal electricity generation, making Narora the exception.
Q1. In which year was the Atomic Energy Establishment Trombay, predecessor of BARC, set up?
[AWES PGT Geography, 2012]
(A) 1954
(B) 1956
(C) 1958
(D) 1960
Answer: (A) 1954
Explanation: Homi J. Bhabha established the Atomic Energy Establishment, Trombay, in 1954. It was later renamed Bhabha Atomic Research Centre. The institute’s work helped build indigenous capabilities in nuclear research and associated engineering.