Q5 · UPSC Prelims 2026 · Set A · Current Affairs and GK

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Among the four main forms of existence of life recognized in Jainism,which one of the following is NOT included?

Page facts
Exam
Union Public Service Commission — Civil Services Examination (UPSC)
Board
UPSC
Stage
Prelims
Year
2026
Paper
UPSC Prelims — Prelims General Studies Paper I (General Studies)
Booklet
Set A
Question
Q5
Topic
Current Affairs and GK
Syllabus
Current events, government schemes, miscellaneous GK — Prelims GS Paper I.
A Deva (gods)
B Yaksha (demi-gods)
C Manushya (humans)
D Tiryancha (animals and plants)

Correct answer: (b) Yaksha (demi-gods)

Explanation

  1. A

    Deva (gods)

    Deva refers to celestial beings or gods residing in the heavenly realms, which is one of the four traditional gatis (states of existence) recognized in Jain cosmology. It is a valid form of life in Jainism and therefore not the correct answer here.

  2. B

    Yaksha (demi-gods)

    Yaksha refers to a class of nature spirits or demi-gods in Indian traditions; while they find a place in Jain mythology and iconography (often as attendant deities or sasanadevatas), they are not counted among the four primary gatis or main forms of existence of life in Jainism.

  3. C

    Manushya (humans)

    Manushya denotes human beings, constituting the third of the four main forms of existence of life in Jainism, characterized by the capacity for moral choice and spiritual liberation (moksha).

  4. D

    Tiryancha (animals and plants)

    Tiryancha encompasses animals, birds, plants, and microscopic organisms (lower life forms), forming the fourth primary state of existence in Jain philosophy.

Summary. Official key is (b) because Yakshas are celestial attendants rather than one of the four foundational gatis (Deva, Manushya, Tiryancha, and Naraka) that define the realms of worldly existence in Jainism.

Same topic · past papers

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  1. 2021 · Q99 · General Studies · 2 marks

    Consider the following statements in respect of the 32nd Summer Olympics: 1. The official motto for this Olympics is 'A New World'. 2. Sport Climbing, Surfing, Skateboarding, Karate and Baseball are included in this, Olympics. Which of the above statements is/are correct?

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