UPSC Current Affairs Quiz : 20 September 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 With reference to the ‘Blue Port Framework’, consider the following statements: It is a flagship initiative of the Department of Fisheries, supported under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The framework focuses exclusively on ecological protection through rainwater harvesting and robust waste management systems. All major ports in India are being upgraded under this framework in the pilot phase. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Statement 1 is correct: The initiative is led by the Department of Fisheries and is a key component supported by the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). It also receives technical backing from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), highlighting a collaborative approach to fisheries development. Statement 2 is incorrect: The framework has a much broader scope than just ecological protection. While it includes eco-friendly infrastructure, it equally emphasizes Smart Technology Integration (like IoT, AI, 5G), operational efficiency through digital platforms, and social inclusion with safer, women-friendly infrastructure. Its focus is holistic, covering economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Statement 3 is incorrect: The pilot phase is targeted and specific, not encompassing all major ports. It has been initiated at three select fishing harbours: Vanakbara (Diu), Jakhau (Gujarat), and Karaikal (Puducherry) to test and refine the model before potential expansion. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is correct: The initiative is led by the Department of Fisheries and is a key component supported by the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). It also receives technical backing from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), highlighting a collaborative approach to fisheries development. Statement 2 is incorrect: The framework has a much broader scope than just ecological protection. While it includes eco-friendly infrastructure, it equally emphasizes Smart Technology Integration (like IoT, AI, 5G), operational efficiency through digital platforms, and social inclusion with safer, women-friendly infrastructure. Its focus is holistic, covering economic, social, and environmental dimensions. Statement 3 is incorrect: The pilot phase is targeted and specific, not encompassing all major ports. It has been initiated at three select fishing harbours: Vanakbara (Diu), Jakhau (Gujarat), and Karaikal (Puducherry) to test and refine the model before potential expansion.

#### 1. Question

With reference to the ‘Blue Port Framework’, consider the following statements:

• It is a flagship initiative of the Department of Fisheries, supported under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).

• The framework focuses exclusively on ecological protection through rainwater harvesting and robust waste management systems.

• All major ports in India are being upgraded under this framework in the pilot phase.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Statement 1 is correct: The initiative is led by the Department of Fisheries and is a key component supported by the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). It also receives technical backing from the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), highlighting a collaborative approach to fisheries development.

• Statement 2 is incorrect: The framework has a much broader scope than just ecological protection. While it includes eco-friendly infrastructure, it equally emphasizes Smart Technology Integration (like IoT, AI, 5G), operational efficiency through digital platforms, and social inclusion with safer, women-friendly infrastructure. Its focus is holistic, covering economic, social, and environmental dimensions.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: The pilot phase is targeted and specific, not encompassing all major ports. It has been initiated at three select fishing harbours: Vanakbara (Diu), Jakhau (Gujarat), and Karaikal (Puducherry) to test and refine the model before potential expansion.

Solution: A

• Question 2 of 10 2. Question 1 points The recent inclusion of ‘Mawmluh Cave’ in UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites is of particular geological significance because: (a) It serves as the global stratotype section and point for the Meghalayan Age in the Holocene Epoch. (b) It contains the world’s best-preserved lava flows from the Deccan Traps era. (c) It exposes a rare Eparchaean Unconformity dating back 1.5 billion years. (d) It showcases unique columnar basaltic rock formations from the Late Cretaceous period. Correct Solution: A Mawmluh Cave, located in Meghalaya, holds a unique and globally recognized position in Earth’s geological history. Option (a) is the correct answer. The cave is designated as the Global Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP) for the Meghalayan Age, which is the most recent subdivision of the Holocene Epoch, starting about 4,200 years ago. A GSSP is a reference point agreed upon by the international scientific community to define the lower boundary of a stage on the geologic time scale. Option (b) describes the Deccan Traps in Maharashtra. Option (c) refers to the Natural Heritage of Tirumala Hills, which is known for the Eparchaean Unconformity. Option (d) is characteristic of St. Mary’s Island Cluster in Karnataka. This question tests the precise geological importance associated with each nominated site. Incorrect Solution: A Mawmluh Cave, located in Meghalaya, holds a unique and globally recognized position in Earth’s geological history. Option (a) is the correct answer. The cave is designated as the Global Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP) for the Meghalayan Age, which is the most recent subdivision of the Holocene Epoch, starting about 4,200 years ago. A GSSP is a reference point agreed upon by the international scientific community to define the lower boundary of a stage on the geologic time scale. Option (b) describes the Deccan Traps in Maharashtra. Option (c) refers to the Natural Heritage of Tirumala Hills, which is known for the Eparchaean Unconformity. Option (d) is characteristic of St. Mary’s Island Cluster in Karnataka. This question tests the precise geological importance associated with each nominated site.

#### 2. Question

The recent inclusion of ‘Mawmluh Cave’ in UNESCO’s Tentative List of World Heritage Sites is of particular geological significance because:

• (a) It serves as the global stratotype section and point for the Meghalayan Age in the Holocene Epoch.

• (b) It contains the world’s best-preserved lava flows from the Deccan Traps era.

• (c) It exposes a rare Eparchaean Unconformity dating back 1.5 billion years.

• (d) It showcases unique columnar basaltic rock formations from the Late Cretaceous period.

Solution: A

Mawmluh Cave, located in Meghalaya, holds a unique and globally recognized position in Earth’s geological history.

• Option (a) is the correct answer. The cave is designated as the Global Stratotype Section and Point (GSSP) for the Meghalayan Age, which is the most recent subdivision of the Holocene Epoch, starting about 4,200 years ago. A GSSP is a reference point agreed upon by the international scientific community to define the lower boundary of a stage on the geologic time scale.

• Option (b) describes the Deccan Traps in Maharashtra.

• Option (c) refers to the Natural Heritage of Tirumala Hills, which is known for the Eparchaean Unconformity.

• Option (d) is characteristic of St. Mary’s Island Cluster in Karnataka. This question tests the precise geological importance associated with each nominated site.

Solution: A

Mawmluh Cave, located in Meghalaya, holds a unique and globally recognized position in Earth’s geological history.

• Option (b) describes the Deccan Traps in Maharashtra.

• Option (c) refers to the Natural Heritage of Tirumala Hills, which is known for the Eparchaean Unconformity.

• Option (d) is characteristic of St. Mary’s Island Cluster in Karnataka. This question tests the precise geological importance associated with each nominated site.

• Question 3 of 10 3. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding the Yellow-Crested Cockatoo: It is a critically endangered species native to the tropical forests of Indonesia and Timor-Leste. This species is known for its highly gregarious nature and lifelong monogamous pair-bonding. It undertakes long-distance annual migrations in response to seasonal food availability. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is correct: The Yellow-Crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea) is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Its native range is endemic to Indonesia and Timor-Leste, where it inhabits tropical forests and woodlands. Statement 2 is correct: This species exhibits distinct social behaviours. It is highly gregarious, often seen in noisy flocks. Furthermore, it is known to form strong pair-bonds, which are typically lifelong and monogamous, a common trait among many cockatoo species. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Yellow-Crested Cockatoo is a mostly sedentary species. While it may undertake minor local movements to find food, water, or nesting sites, it does not engage in long-distance annual migrations. It typically remains within an established home range throughout the year. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is correct: The Yellow-Crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea) is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Its native range is endemic to Indonesia and Timor-Leste, where it inhabits tropical forests and woodlands. Statement 2 is correct: This species exhibits distinct social behaviours. It is highly gregarious, often seen in noisy flocks. Furthermore, it is known to form strong pair-bonds, which are typically lifelong and monogamous, a common trait among many cockatoo species. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Yellow-Crested Cockatoo is a mostly sedentary species. While it may undertake minor local movements to find food, water, or nesting sites, it does not engage in long-distance annual migrations. It typically remains within an established home range throughout the year.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Yellow-Crested Cockatoo:

• It is a critically endangered species native to the tropical forests of Indonesia and Timor-Leste.

• This species is known for its highly gregarious nature and lifelong monogamous pair-bonding.

• It undertakes long-distance annual migrations in response to seasonal food availability.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct: The Yellow-Crested Cockatoo (Cacatua sulphurea) is listed as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Its native range is endemic to Indonesia and Timor-Leste, where it inhabits tropical forests and woodlands.

• Statement 2 is correct: This species exhibits distinct social behaviours. It is highly gregarious, often seen in noisy flocks. Furthermore, it is known to form strong pair-bonds, which are typically lifelong and monogamous, a common trait among many cockatoo species.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: The Yellow-Crested Cockatoo is a mostly sedentary species. While it may undertake minor local movements to find food, water, or nesting sites, it does not engage in long-distance annual migrations. It typically remains within an established home range throughout the year.

Solution: B

• Question 4 of 10 4. Question 1 points With reference to the India-AI Impact Summit 2026, consider the following statements: The summit is organised by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY). Its guiding principles, known as the ‘Three Sutras’, are People, Planet, and Progress. The ‘AI by HER’ is a flagship initiative launched to promote women-led AI innovation. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: C Statement 1 is correct: The summit is a major initiative organised by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), positioning India as a global leader in responsible AI. Statement 2 is correct: The summit’s vision is framed around three core guiding principles or ‘Three Sutras’: People (human dignity and inclusion), Planet (sustainability), and Progress (democratised resources and equitable benefits). Statement 3 is correct: Among its flagship initiatives, the summit features the ‘AI by HER’ challenge, which is specifically designed to encourage and showcase innovations in artificial intelligence led by women. Incorrect Solution: C Statement 1 is correct: The summit is a major initiative organised by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), positioning India as a global leader in responsible AI. Statement 2 is correct: The summit’s vision is framed around three core guiding principles or ‘Three Sutras’: People (human dignity and inclusion), Planet (sustainability), and Progress (democratised resources and equitable benefits). Statement 3 is correct: Among its flagship initiatives, the summit features the ‘AI by HER’ challenge, which is specifically designed to encourage and showcase innovations in artificial intelligence led by women.

#### 4. Question

With reference to the India-AI Impact Summit 2026, consider the following statements:

• The summit is organised by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY).

• Its guiding principles, known as the ‘Three Sutras’, are People, Planet, and Progress.

• The ‘AI by HER’ is a flagship initiative launched to promote women-led AI innovation.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: C

• Statement 1 is correct: The summit is a major initiative organised by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), positioning India as a global leader in responsible AI.

• Statement 2 is correct: The summit’s vision is framed around three core guiding principles or ‘Three Sutras’: People (human dignity and inclusion), Planet (sustainability), and Progress (democratised resources and equitable benefits).

• Statement 3 is correct: Among its flagship initiatives, the summit features the ‘AI by HER’ challenge, which is specifically designed to encourage and showcase innovations in artificial intelligence led by women.

Solution: C

• Statement 1 is correct: The summit is a major initiative organised by the Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY), positioning India as a global leader in responsible AI.

• Question 5 of 10 5. Question 1 points Match the following UNESCO Tentative List sites with their respective states and key geological features: Column-I (Site) Column-II (State) Column-III (Feature) 1. Erra Matti Dibbalu A. Nagaland (i) Warkalli Formation coastal cliffs 2. Naga Hill Ophiolite B. Andhra Pradesh (ii) Red sand dunes with paleo-climatic evidence 3. Varkala Cliffs C. Kerala (iii) Uplifted oceanic crust and mantle rock sequences Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1-C-(i), 2-B-(ii), 3-A-(iii) (b) 1-A-(ii), 2-C-(iii), 3-B-(i) (c) 1-B-(ii), 2-A-(iii), 3-C-(i) (d) 1-B-(iii), 2-A-(i), 3-C-(ii) Correct Solution: C Erra Matti Dibbalu is located in Andhra Pradesh (B). These are red sand dunes (ii) that are of significant geological interest as they preserve evidence of past climatic conditions and coastal geomorphological processes. So, 1-B-(ii) is a correct match. The Naga Hill Ophiolite is situated in Nagaland (A). An ophiolite is a section of the Earth’s oceanic crust and the underlying upper mantle that has been uplifted and exposed on land. This makes it crucial for studying plate tectonics. Thus, (iii) Uplifted oceanic crust is its key feature. So, 2-A-(iii) is a correct match. The Varkala Cliffs are located in Kerala (C). These are spectacular coastal cliffs that expose the Warkalli Formation (i), a sedimentary geological formation, and are also known for their natural springs. So, 3-C-(i) is a correct match. Incorrect Solution: C Erra Matti Dibbalu is located in Andhra Pradesh (B). These are red sand dunes (ii) that are of significant geological interest as they preserve evidence of past climatic conditions and coastal geomorphological processes. So, 1-B-(ii) is a correct match. The Naga Hill Ophiolite is situated in Nagaland (A). An ophiolite is a section of the Earth’s oceanic crust and the underlying upper mantle that has been uplifted and exposed on land. This makes it crucial for studying plate tectonics. Thus, (iii) Uplifted oceanic crust is its key feature. So, 2-A-(iii) is a correct match. The Varkala Cliffs are located in Kerala (C). These are spectacular coastal cliffs that expose the Warkalli Formation (i), a sedimentary geological formation, and are also known for their natural springs. So, 3-C-(i) is a correct match.

#### 5. Question

Match the following UNESCO Tentative List sites with their respective states and key geological features:

Column-I (Site) | Column-II (State) | Column-III (Feature)

1.Erra Matti Dibbalu | A. Nagaland | (i) Warkalli Formation coastal cliffs
2.Naga Hill Ophiolite | B. Andhra Pradesh | (ii) Red sand dunes with paleo-climatic evidence
3.Varkala Cliffs | C. Kerala | (iii) Uplifted oceanic crust and mantle rock sequences

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• (a) 1-C-(i), 2-B-(ii), 3-A-(iii)

• (b) 1-A-(ii), 2-C-(iii), 3-B-(i)

• (c) 1-B-(ii), 2-A-(iii), 3-C-(i)

• (d) 1-B-(iii), 2-A-(i), 3-C-(ii)

Solution: C

• Erra Matti Dibbalu is located in Andhra Pradesh (B). These are red sand dunes (ii) that are of significant geological interest as they preserve evidence of past climatic conditions and coastal geomorphological processes. So, 1-B-(ii) is a correct match.

• The Naga Hill Ophiolite is situated in Nagaland (A). An ophiolite is a section of the Earth’s oceanic crust and the underlying upper mantle that has been uplifted and exposed on land. This makes it crucial for studying plate tectonics. Thus, (iii) Uplifted oceanic crust is its key feature. So, 2-A-(iii) is a correct match.

• The Varkala Cliffs are located in Kerala (C). These are spectacular coastal cliffs that expose the Warkalli Formation (i), a sedimentary geological formation, and are also known for their natural springs. So, 3-C-(i) is a correct match.

Solution: C

• Question 6 of 10 6. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding the El Niño phenomenon: It is characterized by the abnormal warming of sea surface temperatures in the western tropical Pacific Ocean. During an El Niño event, the easterly trade winds blowing along the equator strengthen significantly. It typically enhances the nutrient-rich cold water upwelling along the coast of South America. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect: El Niño involves the unusual warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, not the western Pacific. The warm water pool shifts eastwards from its normal position near Indonesia. Statement 2 is incorrect: A defining characteristic of El Niño is the weakening, or even reversal, of the easterly trade winds. It is this weakening that allows the warm surface water to shift from the western Pacific towards South America. Stronger trade winds are characteristic of the opposite phase, La Niña. Statement 3 is incorrect: El Niño suppresses the upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich water off the coast of South America. The eastward shift of warm surface water deepens the thermocline (the boundary between warm surface water and cold deep water), preventing the colder water from reaching the surface. This has devastating impacts on local fisheries. Incorrect Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect: El Niño involves the unusual warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, not the western Pacific. The warm water pool shifts eastwards from its normal position near Indonesia. Statement 2 is incorrect: A defining characteristic of El Niño is the weakening, or even reversal, of the easterly trade winds. It is this weakening that allows the warm surface water to shift from the western Pacific towards South America. Stronger trade winds are characteristic of the opposite phase, La Niña. Statement 3 is incorrect: El Niño suppresses the upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich water off the coast of South America. The eastward shift of warm surface water deepens the thermocline (the boundary between warm surface water and cold deep water), preventing the colder water from reaching the surface. This has devastating impacts on local fisheries.

#### 6. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the El Niño phenomenon:

• It is characterized by the abnormal warming of sea surface temperatures in the western tropical Pacific Ocean.

• During an El Niño event, the easterly trade winds blowing along the equator strengthen significantly.

• It typically enhances the nutrient-rich cold water upwelling along the coast of South America.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: D

• Statement 1 is incorrect: El Niño involves the unusual warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean, not the western Pacific. The warm water pool shifts eastwards from its normal position near Indonesia.

• Statement 2 is incorrect: A defining characteristic of El Niño is the weakening, or even reversal, of the easterly trade winds. It is this weakening that allows the warm surface water to shift from the western Pacific towards South America. Stronger trade winds are characteristic of the opposite phase, La Niña.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: El Niño suppresses the upwelling of cold, nutrient-rich water off the coast of South America. The eastward shift of warm surface water deepens the thermocline (the boundary between warm surface water and cold deep water), preventing the colder water from reaching the surface. This has devastating impacts on local fisheries.

Solution: D

• Question 7 of 10 7. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding the ‘India-AI Impact Summit 2026’: It is the first global AI summit of its kind to be hosted by a Global South nation. One of its flagship initiatives involves launching indigenous foundational AI models for sectors like agriculture and governance. The IndiaAI Fellowship Programme, expanded under this initiative, is restricted to PhD and post-doctoral scholars to foster high-level research. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is correct: The summit is highlighted as the first of its kind hosted by a Global South nation, which positions India as a thought leader in shaping a global vision for responsible and inclusive AI adoption beyond the developed world. Statement 2 is correct: A major deliverable of the summit is the launch of 8 Indigenous Foundational AI Models. These models are tailored for critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, governance, industry, and multilingual applications, showcasing India’s capabilities in building core AI technologies. Statement 3 is incorrect: The IndiaAI Fellowship Programme has been significantly expanded, but it is not restricted to higher-level researchers. The program now covers 13,500 scholars across undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), and PhD levels, aiming to create a broad and robust talent pipeline across various disciplines, not just elite research. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is correct: The summit is highlighted as the first of its kind hosted by a Global South nation, which positions India as a thought leader in shaping a global vision for responsible and inclusive AI adoption beyond the developed world. Statement 2 is correct: A major deliverable of the summit is the launch of 8 Indigenous Foundational AI Models. These models are tailored for critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, governance, industry, and multilingual applications, showcasing India’s capabilities in building core AI technologies. Statement 3 is incorrect: The IndiaAI Fellowship Programme has been significantly expanded, but it is not restricted to higher-level researchers. The program now covers 13,500 scholars across undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), and PhD levels, aiming to create a broad and robust talent pipeline across various disciplines, not just elite research.

#### 7. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the ‘India-AI Impact Summit 2026’:

• It is the first global AI summit of its kind to be hosted by a Global South nation.

• One of its flagship initiatives involves launching indigenous foundational AI models for sectors like agriculture and governance.

• The IndiaAI Fellowship Programme, expanded under this initiative, is restricted to PhD and post-doctoral scholars to foster high-level research.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct: The summit is highlighted as the first of its kind hosted by a Global South nation, which positions India as a thought leader in shaping a global vision for responsible and inclusive AI adoption beyond the developed world.

• Statement 2 is correct: A major deliverable of the summit is the launch of 8 Indigenous Foundational AI Models. These models are tailored for critical sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, governance, industry, and multilingual applications, showcasing India’s capabilities in building core AI technologies.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: The IndiaAI Fellowship Programme has been significantly expanded, but it is not restricted to higher-level researchers. The program now covers 13,500 scholars across undergraduate (UG), postgraduate (PG), and PhD levels, aiming to create a broad and robust talent pipeline across various disciplines, not just elite research.

Solution: B

• Question 8 of 10 8. Question 1 points With respect to a recent study on El Niño’s impact on the Indian monsoon, which of the following best describes its findings? (a) El Niño uniformly suppresses all forms of rainfall across the entire Indian subcontinent. (b) El Niño increases the overall monsoon rainfall but reduces the number of rainy days. (c) El Niño causes a delayed monsoon onset but ensures an even distribution of rainfall throughout the season. (d) El Niño suppresses the total seasonal monsoon rainfall but increases the probability of extreme daily rainfall events in central India. Correct Solution: D Option (d) accurately reflects the study’s conclusion. It confirms the long-understood correlation that El Niño generally suppresses the overall quantum of Southwest monsoon rainfall, often leading to drought-like conditions. However, it adds a critical new insight: despite the overall deficit, the probability of extreme daily rainfall events significantly increases (by nearly 50%), particularly across central India. This paradox—less total rain but more intense downpours—raises new challenges for flood and disaster management. Option (a) is incorrect because the impact is not uniform. Option (b) is incorrect as El Niño generally reduces, not increases, overall rainfall. Option (c) is incorrect because it is associated with erratic, not even, distribution. Incorrect Solution: D Option (d) accurately reflects the study’s conclusion. It confirms the long-understood correlation that El Niño generally suppresses the overall quantum of Southwest monsoon rainfall, often leading to drought-like conditions. However, it adds a critical new insight: despite the overall deficit, the probability of extreme daily rainfall events significantly increases (by nearly 50%), particularly across central India. This paradox—less total rain but more intense downpours—raises new challenges for flood and disaster management. Option (a) is incorrect because the impact is not uniform. Option (b) is incorrect as El Niño generally reduces, not increases, overall rainfall. Option (c) is incorrect because it is associated with erratic, not even, distribution.

#### 8. Question

With respect to a recent study on El Niño’s impact on the Indian monsoon, which of the following best describes its findings?

• (a) El Niño uniformly suppresses all forms of rainfall across the entire Indian subcontinent.

• (b) El Niño increases the overall monsoon rainfall but reduces the number of rainy days.

• (c) El Niño causes a delayed monsoon onset but ensures an even distribution of rainfall throughout the season.

• (d) El Niño suppresses the total seasonal monsoon rainfall but increases the probability of extreme daily rainfall events in central India.

Solution: D

• Option (d) accurately reflects the study’s conclusion. It confirms the long-understood correlation that El Niño generally suppresses the overall quantum of Southwest monsoon rainfall, often leading to drought-like conditions. However, it adds a critical new insight: despite the overall deficit, the probability of extreme daily rainfall events significantly increases (by nearly 50%), particularly across central India. This paradox—less total rain but more intense downpours—raises new challenges for flood and disaster management.

• Option (a) is incorrect because the impact is not uniform.

• Option (b) is incorrect as El Niño generally reduces, not increases, overall rainfall.

• Option (c) is incorrect because it is associated with erratic, not even, distribution.

Solution: D

• Option (a) is incorrect because the impact is not uniform.

• Option (b) is incorrect as El Niño generally reduces, not increases, overall rainfall.

• Option (c) is incorrect because it is associated with erratic, not even, distribution.

• Question 9 of 10 9. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025: The GII is an annual report published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO). Its conceptual framework evaluates economies based on both ‘Innovation Inputs’ and ‘Innovation Outputs’. For 2025, Switzerland, Sweden, and China were ranked as the top three most innovative economies globally. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is correct: The Global Innovation Index is a flagship annual publication launched by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), in collaboration with other partners. Statement 2 is correct: The GII’s methodology is built upon a robust conceptual framework that balances two sub-indices. ‘Innovation Inputs’ measure elements of the national economy that enable innovative activities (e.g., Institutions, Human Capital, Infrastructure). ‘Innovation Outputs’ capture the actual results of innovative activities (e.g., Knowledge & Technology Outputs, Creative Outputs). Statement 3 is incorrect: The report identifies the top three innovative nations for 2025 as Switzerland (1st), Sweden (2nd), and the United States (3rd). China, while a strong performer and consistently rising in ranks, was not in the top three for this edition. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is correct: The Global Innovation Index is a flagship annual publication launched by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), in collaboration with other partners. Statement 2 is correct: The GII’s methodology is built upon a robust conceptual framework that balances two sub-indices. ‘Innovation Inputs’ measure elements of the national economy that enable innovative activities (e.g., Institutions, Human Capital, Infrastructure). ‘Innovation Outputs’ capture the actual results of innovative activities (e.g., Knowledge & Technology Outputs, Creative Outputs). Statement 3 is incorrect: The report identifies the top three innovative nations for 2025 as Switzerland (1st), Sweden (2nd), and the United States (3rd). China, while a strong performer and consistently rising in ranks, was not in the top three for this edition.

#### 9. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2025:

• The GII is an annual report published by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO).

• Its conceptual framework evaluates economies based on both ‘Innovation Inputs’ and ‘Innovation Outputs’.

• For 2025, Switzerland, Sweden, and China were ranked as the top three most innovative economies globally.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct: The Global Innovation Index is a flagship annual publication launched by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), in collaboration with other partners.

• Statement 2 is correct: The GII’s methodology is built upon a robust conceptual framework that balances two sub-indices. ‘Innovation Inputs’ measure elements of the national economy that enable innovative activities (e.g., Institutions, Human Capital, Infrastructure). ‘Innovation Outputs’ capture the actual results of innovative activities (e.g., Knowledge & Technology Outputs, Creative Outputs).

• Statement 3 is incorrect: The report identifies the top three innovative nations for 2025 as Switzerland (1st), Sweden (2nd), and the United States (3rd). China, while a strong performer and consistently rising in ranks, was not in the top three for this edition.

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct: The Global Innovation Index is a flagship annual publication launched by the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), in collaboration with other partners.

• Question 10 of 10 10. Question 1 points Regarding the election of the Vice-President of India, which of the following statements is/are incorrect? The ballot papers used in the election are required to be marked using only the international form of Indian numerals. The winning candidate is the one who secures the highest number of first-preference votes, regardless of whether they achieve the quota. Members of State Legislative Assemblies form a crucial part of the Electoral College for the Vice-Presidential election. Select the correct answer using the code given below: a) 2 only b) 1 and 3 only c) 2 and 3 only d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect because voters (MPs) are permitted to mark their preferences on the ballot paper using international numerals, Roman numerals, or the numerals used in any Indian script. The preference cannot be written out in words (e.g., “one”). Statement 2 is incorrect. The election follows the single transferable vote system, which requires the winning candidate to secure a specific quota of votes, calculated as [(Total Valid Votes Cast) / 2] + 1. If no candidate secures this quota with first-preference votes, a process of vote transfer begins where the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated and their votes are redistributed according to the next preference marked. Securing a simple plurality of first-preference votes is not sufficient to win. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Electoral College for the Vice-Presidential election consists only of the members of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Unlike the Presidential election, members of State Legislative Assemblies have no role in this process. Incorrect Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect because voters (MPs) are permitted to mark their preferences on the ballot paper using international numerals, Roman numerals, or the numerals used in any Indian script. The preference cannot be written out in words (e.g., “one”). Statement 2 is incorrect. The election follows the single transferable vote system, which requires the winning candidate to secure a specific quota of votes, calculated as [(Total Valid Votes Cast) / 2] + 1. If no candidate secures this quota with first-preference votes, a process of vote transfer begins where the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated and their votes are redistributed according to the next preference marked. Securing a simple plurality of first-preference votes is not sufficient to win. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Electoral College for the Vice-Presidential election consists only of the members of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Unlike the Presidential election, members of State Legislative Assemblies have no role in this process.

#### 10. Question

Regarding the election of the Vice-President of India, which of the following statements is/are incorrect?

• The ballot papers used in the election are required to be marked using only the international form of Indian numerals.

• The winning candidate is the one who secures the highest number of first-preference votes, regardless of whether they achieve the quota.

• Members of State Legislative Assemblies form a crucial part of the Electoral College for the Vice-Presidential election.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• b) 1 and 3 only

• c) 2 and 3 only

• d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: D

• Statement 1 is incorrect because voters (MPs) are permitted to mark their preferences on the ballot paper using international numerals, Roman numerals, or the numerals used in any Indian script. The preference cannot be written out in words (e.g., “one”).

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The election follows the single transferable vote system, which requires the winning candidate to secure a specific quota of votes, calculated as [(Total Valid Votes Cast) / 2] + 1. If no candidate secures this quota with first-preference votes, a process of vote transfer begins where the candidate with the fewest votes is eliminated and their votes are redistributed according to the next preference marked. Securing a simple plurality of first-preference votes is not sufficient to win.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. The Electoral College for the Vice-Presidential election consists only of the members of the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha. Unlike the Presidential election, members of State Legislative Assemblies have no role in this process.

Solution: D

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