Post: Laboratory Technician Gr II - Laboratory Assistant Gr II - Animal Husbandry

Paper Code: 168/2016

Date of Test: 14th December 2016

Year Category: 2016

Exam Overview:

The Kerala Public Service Commission (Kerala PSC) conducts recruitment exams for various posts across different departments. The exam for the posts of Laboratory Technician Gr II, Laboratory Assistant Gr II, and Animal Husbandry falls under the Animal Husbandry Department. The exam paper (168/2016) was designed to test the candidates' knowledge and proficiency in the areas relevant to the positions they were applying for.

Exam Pattern:

The exam was a Multiple Choice Question (MCQ) format and covered a wide range of topics relevant to the roles. The questions were framed to assess both theoretical knowledge and practical understanding of subjects like basic laboratory procedures, animal husbandry, and relevant scientific principles.

• Total Questions: 100
• Time Duration: 1 hour 15 minutes (75 minutes)
• Maximum Marks: 100
• Type of Questions: Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)

Syllabus Coverage:

The exam was based on a diverse syllabus, including topics in Animal Husbandry, General Science, Laboratory Techniques, and Basic Veterinary Science. Below are the key topics and subject areas covered in the exam:

1. Animal Husbandry:

• Basics of Animal Husbandry
• Animal Breeding and Nutrition
• Care and Management of Farm Animals
• Veterinary Science Fundamentals
• Poultry Management
• Milk Production and Dairy Farming
• Animal Diseases and Their Control

1. Laboratory Technician / Laboratory Assistant:

• Basic Laboratory Techniques
• Laboratory Safety Protocols
• Preparation and Handling of Samples
• Principles of Microscopy and Staining Techniques
• Chemical Reagents and Their Uses in Animal Laboratories
• Equipment Handling and Maintenance in Laboratories
• Laboratory Quality Control

1. General Science:

• General Knowledge in Life Sciences and Biology
• Principles of Biology and Zoology
• Chemistry and Physics related to Laboratory Work
• Cell Biology and Biochemistry
• Basic Knowledge of Human Anatomy and Physiology

1. General Knowledge and Current Affairs:

• Questions on current affairs, particularly related to animal husbandry and agriculture.
• General knowledge about Kerala and its socio-economic aspects, as well as scientific and technological advancements in animal husbandry.

Key Skills Assessed:

• Understanding of animal health management, including the prevention and control of diseases.
• Knowledge of laboratory techniques used in veterinary practices.
• Proficiency in handling laboratory tools and equipment.
• Awareness of modern advancements in animal husbandry and laboratory techniques.
• General awareness of animal diseases, nutrition, and breeding.
• Problem-solving skills and scientific reasoning.

Sample Question Topics:

• Animal Husbandry:
• Which breed of cattle is known for its high milk yield?
• Define the process of artificial insemination in cattle.
• Laboratory Techniques:
• What is the purpose of using a centrifuge in a laboratory?
• Explain the process of Gram staining in microbiology.
• Veterinary Science:
• Name a common disease that affects poultry.
• What are the symptoms of mastitis in dairy animals?

Preparation Tips for Candidates:

• Understand the Basics: Brush up on the fundamental concepts of animal husbandry, including animal nutrition, breeding, and farm management.
• Laboratory Procedures: Focus on practical knowledge and laboratory techniques, especially the handling of equipment and basic laboratory safety.
• General Knowledge: Stay updated on the latest news and advancements in the field of animal husbandry and veterinary science.
• Practice MCQs: Solve previous years’ question papers and sample MCQs to become familiar with the exam pattern.