UPSC Current Affairs Quiz : 13 March 2025

The Current Affairs Quiz 2024 is a daily quiz based on the DAILY CURRENT AFFAIRS AND PIB SUMMARY from the previous day, as posted on our website. It covers all relevant news sources and is designed to test your knowledge of current events. Solving these questions will help you retain both concepts and facts relevant to the UPSC IAS civil services exam.

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• Question 1 of 10 1. Question 1 points Which of the following is NOT a component of the Global Engagement Scheme? (a) Grant-in-aid support for Indo-Foreign cultural societies (b) Organization of virtual cultural programs with foreign artists (c) Promotion of classical and contemporary Indian arts through global festivals (d) International collaborations for academic research in Indian heritage Correct Solution: D The scheme focuses on cultural promotion, performances, and exchanges, not academic research collaborations, which fall under the Ministry of Education or the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). What is the Global Engagement Scheme? The Global Engagement Scheme, initiated by the Ministry of Culture, aims to promote India’s diverse cultural heritage on the global stage and foster international cultural collaborations. Nodal Ministry- Ministry of Culture, Government of India Key Features of the Scheme Promoting Cultural Heritage: Showcases India’s rich cultural diversity, including folk, classical, and contemporary art forms. Strengthening Bilateral Cultural Ties: Encourages collaboration with foreign nations to enhance India’s cultural outreach. Festival of India (FOI): Empanelled Indian artists perform abroad in cultural festivals organized by Indian Missions. Covers folk music, dance, puppetry, theatre, classical music, experimental dance, etc. Government funds travel and performances of selected artists. Grant-in-Aid for Indo-Foreign Friendship Societies: Financial support to cultural societies fostering Indo-foreign cultural exchange. Incorrect Solution: D The scheme focuses on cultural promotion, performances, and exchanges, not academic research collaborations, which fall under the Ministry of Education or the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR). What is the Global Engagement Scheme? The Global Engagement Scheme, initiated by the Ministry of Culture, aims to promote India’s diverse cultural heritage on the global stage and foster international cultural collaborations. Nodal Ministry- Ministry of Culture, Government of India Key Features of the Scheme Promoting Cultural Heritage: Showcases India’s rich cultural diversity, including folk, classical, and contemporary art forms. Strengthening Bilateral Cultural Ties: Encourages collaboration with foreign nations to enhance India’s cultural outreach. Festival of India (FOI): Empanelled Indian artists perform abroad in cultural festivals organized by Indian Missions. Covers folk music, dance, puppetry, theatre, classical music, experimental dance, etc. Government funds travel and performances of selected artists. Grant-in-Aid for Indo-Foreign Friendship Societies: Financial support to cultural societies fostering Indo-foreign cultural exchange.

#### 1. Question

Which of the following is NOT a component of the Global Engagement Scheme?

• (a) Grant-in-aid support for Indo-Foreign cultural societies

• (b) Organization of virtual cultural programs with foreign artists

• (c) Promotion of classical and contemporary Indian arts through global festivals

• (d) International collaborations for academic research in Indian heritage

Solution: D

The scheme focuses on cultural promotion, performances, and exchanges, not academic research collaborations, which fall under the Ministry of Education or the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR).

What is the Global Engagement Scheme?

The Global Engagement Scheme, initiated by the Ministry of Culture, aims to promote India’s diverse cultural heritage on the global stage and foster international cultural collaborations.

Nodal Ministry- Ministry of Culture, Government of India

Key Features of the Scheme

• Promoting Cultural Heritage: Showcases India’s rich cultural diversity, including folk, classical, and contemporary art forms.

• Strengthening Bilateral Cultural Ties: Encourages collaboration with foreign nations to enhance India’s cultural outreach.

• Festival of India (FOI): Empanelled Indian artists perform abroad in cultural festivals organized by Indian Missions. Covers folk music, dance, puppetry, theatre, classical music, experimental dance, etc. Government funds travel and performances of selected artists.

• Covers folk music, dance, puppetry, theatre, classical music, experimental dance, etc.

• Government funds travel and performances of selected artists.

• Grant-in-Aid for Indo-Foreign Friendship Societies: Financial support to cultural societies fostering Indo-foreign cultural exchange.

Solution: D

What is the Global Engagement Scheme?

The Global Engagement Scheme, initiated by the Ministry of Culture, aims to promote India’s diverse cultural heritage on the global stage and foster international cultural collaborations.

Nodal Ministry- Ministry of Culture, Government of India

Key Features of the Scheme

• Promoting Cultural Heritage: Showcases India’s rich cultural diversity, including folk, classical, and contemporary art forms.

• Strengthening Bilateral Cultural Ties: Encourages collaboration with foreign nations to enhance India’s cultural outreach.

• Covers folk music, dance, puppetry, theatre, classical music, experimental dance, etc.

• Government funds travel and performances of selected artists.

• Grant-in-Aid for Indo-Foreign Friendship Societies: Financial support to cultural societies fostering Indo-foreign cultural exchange.

• Question 2 of 10 2. Question 1 points Consider the following reports published by the National Statistics Office (NSO): Index of Industrial Production (IIP) Annual Survey of Industries (ASI) Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS) Which of the above are published by the NSO? (a) 1 and 2 (b) 1, 2, and 3 (c) 1, 3, and 4 (d) All of the above Correct Solution: B The Index of Industrial Production (IIP), ASI, and PLFS are published by NSO. The Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS) is conducted by the RBI, not NSO. About National Statistics Office (NSO) What is NSO? NSO is India’s premier statistical body under the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI). It is responsible for conducting surveys, data collection, and statistical analysis for economic and social indicators. Established In Formed in 2019, after merging the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and National Sample Survey Office (NSSO). Chaired By The Secretary, MoSPI, heads the NSO. Organizational Structure Survey Division: Conducts household and enterprise surveys. Economic Division: Estimates national income, inflation, and industrial production. Field Operations Division: Collects data from households and businesses. Functions & Powers Conducts large-scale surveys, including National Sample Surveys (NSS), Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), and Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES). Publishes GDP data, Consumer Price Index (CPI), and Index of Industrial Production (IIP). Provides statistical inputs for government policies and economic planning. Ensures data accuracy, transparency, and compliance with global statistical standards. Incorrect Solution: B The Index of Industrial Production (IIP), ASI, and PLFS are published by NSO. The Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS) is conducted by the RBI, not NSO. About National Statistics Office (NSO) What is NSO? NSO is India’s premier statistical body under the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI). It is responsible for conducting surveys, data collection, and statistical analysis for economic and social indicators. Established In Formed in 2019, after merging the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and National Sample Survey Office (NSSO). Chaired By The Secretary, MoSPI, heads the NSO. Organizational Structure Survey Division: Conducts household and enterprise surveys. Economic Division: Estimates national income, inflation, and industrial production. Field Operations Division: Collects data from households and businesses. Functions & Powers Conducts large-scale surveys, including National Sample Surveys (NSS), Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), and Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES). Publishes GDP data, Consumer Price Index (CPI), and Index of Industrial Production (IIP). Provides statistical inputs for government policies and economic planning. Ensures data accuracy, transparency, and compliance with global statistical standards.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following reports published by the National Statistics Office (NSO):

• Index of Industrial Production (IIP)

• Annual Survey of Industries (ASI)

• Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS)

• Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS)

Which of the above are published by the NSO?

• (a) 1 and 2

• (b) 1, 2, and 3

• (c) 1, 3, and 4

• (d) All of the above

Solution: B

The Index of Industrial Production (IIP), ASI, and PLFS are published by NSO.

The Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS) is conducted by the RBI, not NSO.

About National Statistics Office (NSO)

What is NSO?

• NSO is India’s premier statistical body under the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

• It is responsible for conducting surveys, data collection, and statistical analysis for economic and social indicators.

Established In

• Formed in 2019, after merging the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and National Sample Survey Office (NSSO).

Chaired By

• The Secretary, MoSPI, heads the NSO.

Organizational Structure

• Survey Division: Conducts household and enterprise surveys.

• Economic Division: Estimates national income, inflation, and industrial production.

• Field Operations Division: Collects data from households and businesses.

Functions & Powers

• Conducts large-scale surveys, including National Sample Surveys (NSS), Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), and Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES).

• Publishes GDP data, Consumer Price Index (CPI), and Index of Industrial Production (IIP).

• Provides statistical inputs for government policies and economic planning.

• Ensures data accuracy, transparency, and compliance with global statistical standards.

Solution: B

The Index of Industrial Production (IIP), ASI, and PLFS are published by NSO.

The Consumer Confidence Survey (CCS) is conducted by the RBI, not NSO.

About National Statistics Office (NSO)

What is NSO?

• NSO is India’s premier statistical body under the Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI).

• It is responsible for conducting surveys, data collection, and statistical analysis for economic and social indicators.

Established In

• Formed in 2019, after merging the Central Statistics Office (CSO) and National Sample Survey Office (NSSO).

Chaired By

• The Secretary, MoSPI, heads the NSO.

Organizational Structure

• Survey Division: Conducts household and enterprise surveys.

• Economic Division: Estimates national income, inflation, and industrial production.

• Field Operations Division: Collects data from households and businesses.

Functions & Powers

• Conducts large-scale surveys, including National Sample Surveys (NSS), Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS), and Household Consumption Expenditure Survey (HCES).

• Publishes GDP data, Consumer Price Index (CPI), and Index of Industrial Production (IIP).

• Provides statistical inputs for government policies and economic planning.

• Ensures data accuracy, transparency, and compliance with global statistical standards.

• Question 3 of 10 3. Question 1 points Which of the following is a major environmental challenge affecting the North Sea? (a) Rising salinity levels due to reduced freshwater inflow. (b) Increased frequency of dead zones due to excessive nutrient runoff. (c) Formation of underwater volcanoes due to tectonic activity. (d) Expansion of mangrove forests along the coastline. Correct Solution: B Excessive nitrogen and phosphorus from agricultural runoff cause eutrophication, leading to dead zones (oxygen-depleted areas) in the North Sea. The North Sea does not have significant mangrove forests due to its cold climate. Underwater volcanoes are not a feature of the North Sea. What is the North Sea? The North Sea is a marginal sea of the Atlantic Ocean, located between Great Britain, Scandinavia, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France. Key Facts About the North Sea Area: Approximately 570,000 square kilometers. Average Depth: 95 meters, with a maximum depth of 700 meters in the Norwegian Trench. Connected Water Bodies: Linked to the Norwegian Sea, English Channel, and the Baltic Sea. Bordering Countries: United Kingdom, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, France Major Rivers Flowing into the North Sea: Rhine River (Germany, Netherlands), Elbe River (Germany), Thames River (United Kingdom), Seine River (France), Ems River (Germany), Meuse River (Belgium, Netherlands) Incorrect Solution: B Excessive nitrogen and phosphorus from agricultural runoff cause eutrophication, leading to dead zones (oxygen-depleted areas) in the North Sea. The North Sea does not have significant mangrove forests due to its cold climate. Underwater volcanoes are not a feature of the North Sea. What is the North Sea? The North Sea is a marginal sea of the Atlantic Ocean, located between Great Britain, Scandinavia, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France. Key Facts About the North Sea Area: Approximately 570,000 square kilometers. Average Depth: 95 meters, with a maximum depth of 700 meters in the Norwegian Trench. Connected Water Bodies: Linked to the Norwegian Sea, English Channel, and the Baltic Sea. Bordering Countries: United Kingdom, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, France Major Rivers Flowing into the North Sea: Rhine River (Germany, Netherlands), Elbe River (Germany), Thames River (United Kingdom), Seine River (France), Ems River (Germany), Meuse River (Belgium, Netherlands)

#### 3. Question

Which of the following is a major environmental challenge affecting the North Sea?

• (a) Rising salinity levels due to reduced freshwater inflow.

• (b) Increased frequency of dead zones due to excessive nutrient runoff.

• (c) Formation of underwater volcanoes due to tectonic activity.

• (d) Expansion of mangrove forests along the coastline.

Solution: B

Excessive nitrogen and phosphorus from agricultural runoff cause eutrophication, leading to dead zones (oxygen-depleted areas) in the North Sea.

The North Sea does not have significant mangrove forests due to its cold climate.

Underwater volcanoes are not a feature of the North Sea.

What is the North Sea?

• The North Sea is a marginal sea of the Atlantic Ocean, located between Great Britain, Scandinavia, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France.

Key Facts About the North Sea

• Area: Approximately 570,000 square kilometers.

• Average Depth: 95 meters, with a maximum depth of 700 meters in the Norwegian Trench.

• Connected Water Bodies: Linked to the Norwegian Sea, English Channel, and the Baltic Sea.

• Bordering Countries: United Kingdom, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, France

• Major Rivers Flowing into the North Sea: Rhine River (Germany, Netherlands), Elbe River (Germany), Thames River (United Kingdom), Seine River (France), Ems River (Germany), Meuse River (Belgium, Netherlands)

Solution: B

Excessive nitrogen and phosphorus from agricultural runoff cause eutrophication, leading to dead zones (oxygen-depleted areas) in the North Sea.

The North Sea does not have significant mangrove forests due to its cold climate.

Underwater volcanoes are not a feature of the North Sea.

What is the North Sea?

• The North Sea is a marginal sea of the Atlantic Ocean, located between Great Britain, Scandinavia, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, and France.

Key Facts About the North Sea

• Area: Approximately 570,000 square kilometers.

• Average Depth: 95 meters, with a maximum depth of 700 meters in the Norwegian Trench.

• Connected Water Bodies: Linked to the Norwegian Sea, English Channel, and the Baltic Sea.

• Bordering Countries: United Kingdom, Norway, Denmark, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, France

• Question 4 of 10 4. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and its functions: SIPRI is an intergovernmental organization under the United Nations that tracks global arms transfers and military expenditure. SIPRI publishes the “Trends in International Arms Transfers” report, which provides an analysis of major arms exporters and importers. SIPRI’s research focuses solely on arms trade and does not include nuclear disarmament or geopolitical conflicts. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect – SIPRI is an independent research institute, not a UN-affiliated body. It was established in 1966 in Sweden. Statement 2 is correct – SIPRI publishes the “Trends in International Arms Transfers” report to track major exporters and importers of arms. Statement 3 is incorrect – SIPRI’s research covers arms trade, nuclear disarmament, conflicts, and international security. Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) What is SIPRI? SIPRI is an independent international institute focused on research in conflict, armaments, arms control, and disarmament. Establishment Founded in 1966 in Stockholm, Sweden. Functions & Significance Analyzes trends in global arms trade and their impact on international security. Monitors military spending of nations and their strategic implications. Provides data-driven insights for policymakers on global defence dynamics. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect – SIPRI is an independent research institute, not a UN-affiliated body. It was established in 1966 in Sweden. Statement 2 is correct – SIPRI publishes the “Trends in International Arms Transfers” report to track major exporters and importers of arms. Statement 3 is incorrect – SIPRI’s research covers arms trade, nuclear disarmament, conflicts, and international security. Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) What is SIPRI? SIPRI is an independent international institute focused on research in conflict, armaments, arms control, and disarmament. Establishment Founded in 1966 in Stockholm, Sweden. Functions & Significance Analyzes trends in global arms trade and their impact on international security. Monitors military spending of nations and their strategic implications. Provides data-driven insights for policymakers on global defence dynamics.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) and its functions:

• SIPRI is an intergovernmental organization under the United Nations that tracks global arms transfers and military expenditure.

• SIPRI publishes the “Trends in International Arms Transfers” report, which provides an analysis of major arms exporters and importers.

• SIPRI’s research focuses solely on arms trade and does not include nuclear disarmament or geopolitical conflicts.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

Statement 1 is incorrect – SIPRI is an independent research institute, not a UN-affiliated body. It was established in 1966 in Sweden.

Statement 2 is correct – SIPRI publishes the “Trends in International Arms Transfers” report to track major exporters and importers of arms.

Statement 3 is incorrect – SIPRI’s research covers arms trade, nuclear disarmament, conflicts, and international security.

Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)

What is SIPRI?

• SIPRI is an independent international institute focused on research in conflict, armaments, arms control, and disarmament.

Establishment

• Founded in 1966 in Stockholm, Sweden.

Functions & Significance

• Analyzes trends in global arms trade and their impact on international security.

• Monitors military spending of nations and their strategic implications.

• Provides data-driven insights for policymakers on global defence dynamics.

Solution: A

Statement 1 is incorrect – SIPRI is an independent research institute, not a UN-affiliated body. It was established in 1966 in Sweden.

Statement 2 is correct – SIPRI publishes the “Trends in International Arms Transfers” report to track major exporters and importers of arms.

Statement 3 is incorrect – SIPRI’s research covers arms trade, nuclear disarmament, conflicts, and international security.

Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI)

What is SIPRI?

• SIPRI is an independent international institute focused on research in conflict, armaments, arms control, and disarmament.

Establishment

• Founded in 1966 in Stockholm, Sweden.

Functions & Significance

• Analyzes trends in global arms trade and their impact on international security.

• Monitors military spending of nations and their strategic implications.

• Provides data-driven insights for policymakers on global defence dynamics.

• Question 5 of 10 5. Question 1 points Which of the following is the most significant advantage of gene-editing in bananas over traditional genetic modification (GMO)? (a) Gene-edited bananas have been widely accepted and approved for human consumption globally. (b) Gene-editing is faster but more unpredictable compared to traditional GMO methods. (c) Gene-edited crops require continuous application of chemical regulators to maintain their traits. (d) Gene-editing does not introduce foreign DNA, whereas GMO techniques do. Correct Solution: D Unlike GMOs, CRISPR-based gene editing makes precise alterations within the plant’s own genome without inserting foreign genes, making it more acceptable in regulatory frameworks. A UK-based biotech company, Tropic, has developed a gene-edited banana that remains fresh and yellow for 12 hours after peeling, reducing food waste. This breakthrough in genetic modification could help curb post-harvest losses and carbon emissions, contributing to sustainability. Recent Advancements in Gene-Editing Technology CRISPR-Cas9 Breakthroughs: CRISPR-Cas9 remains the most widely used gene-editing tool, enabling precise DNA modifications. Scientists have improved base-editing techniques, allowing for single-nucleotide changes without breaking DNA strands. Prime Editing: A more refined version of CRISPR, Prime Editing, can directly write new genetic sequences without cutting DNA entirely. This technique enhances safety and accuracy in genetic modifications. Gene-Edited Crops for Agriculture: Non-browning bananas (Tropic) and Arctic apples (Okanagan Specialty Fruits) extend shelf life and reduce waste. Drought-resistant wheat, pest-resistant rice, and vitamin-enhanced tomatoes are advancing agricultural productivity. Therapeutic Applications: Gene editing is revolutionizing cancer treatment (CAR-T cell therapy). Ongoing trials aim to cure genetic disorders like sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis. Incorrect Solution: D Unlike GMOs, CRISPR-based gene editing makes precise alterations within the plant’s own genome without inserting foreign genes, making it more acceptable in regulatory frameworks. A UK-based biotech company, Tropic, has developed a gene-edited banana that remains fresh and yellow for 12 hours after peeling, reducing food waste. This breakthrough in genetic modification could help curb post-harvest losses and carbon emissions, contributing to sustainability. Recent Advancements in Gene-Editing Technology CRISPR-Cas9 Breakthroughs: CRISPR-Cas9 remains the most widely used gene-editing tool, enabling precise DNA modifications. Scientists have improved base-editing techniques, allowing for single-nucleotide changes without breaking DNA strands. Prime Editing: A more refined version of CRISPR, Prime Editing, can directly write new genetic sequences without cutting DNA entirely. This technique enhances safety and accuracy in genetic modifications. Gene-Edited Crops for Agriculture: Non-browning bananas (Tropic) and Arctic apples (Okanagan Specialty Fruits) extend shelf life and reduce waste. Drought-resistant wheat, pest-resistant rice, and vitamin-enhanced tomatoes are advancing agricultural productivity. Therapeutic Applications: Gene editing is revolutionizing cancer treatment (CAR-T cell therapy). Ongoing trials aim to cure genetic disorders like sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis.

#### 5. Question

Which of the following is the most significant advantage of gene-editing in bananas over traditional genetic modification (GMO)?

• (a) Gene-edited bananas have been widely accepted and approved for human consumption globally.

• (b) Gene-editing is faster but more unpredictable compared to traditional GMO methods.

• (c) Gene-edited crops require continuous application of chemical regulators to maintain their traits.

• (d) Gene-editing does not introduce foreign DNA, whereas GMO techniques do.

Solution: D

Unlike GMOs, CRISPR-based gene editing makes precise alterations within the plant’s own genome without inserting foreign genes, making it more acceptable in regulatory frameworks.

A UK-based biotech company, Tropic, has developed a gene-edited banana that remains fresh and yellow for 12 hours after peeling, reducing food waste.

• This breakthrough in genetic modification could help curb post-harvest losses and carbon emissions, contributing to sustainability.

Recent Advancements in Gene-Editing Technology

• CRISPR-Cas9 Breakthroughs: CRISPR-Cas9 remains the most widely used gene-editing tool, enabling precise DNA modifications.

• Scientists have improved base-editing techniques, allowing for single-nucleotide changes without breaking DNA strands.

• Prime Editing: A more refined version of CRISPR, Prime Editing, can directly write new genetic sequences without cutting DNA entirely.

• This technique enhances safety and accuracy in genetic modifications.

• Gene-Edited Crops for Agriculture: Non-browning bananas (Tropic) and Arctic apples (Okanagan Specialty Fruits) extend shelf life and reduce waste.

• Drought-resistant wheat, pest-resistant rice, and vitamin-enhanced tomatoes are advancing agricultural productivity.

• Therapeutic Applications: Gene editing is revolutionizing cancer treatment (CAR-T cell therapy).

• Ongoing trials aim to cure genetic disorders like sickle cell anemia and cystic fibrosis.