UPSC Current Affairs Quiz : 24 December 2025

The Current Affairs Quiz 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 What is the main subject area for research under the SHAKTI Scholars fellowship? (a) Space Exploration and Astronomy (b) Agriculture and Farming Techniques (c) Women-centric challenges and Gender Studies (d) Underwater Marine Biology Correct Solution: C The SHAKTI Scholars program is entirely focused on women-centric issues. The goal is to study challenges that women face in India, such as safety, legal rights, health, and leadership. By giving grants to researchers in fields like Law, Social Sciences, and Public Policy, the government hopes to get better data. This data is then used to improve “gender-responsive governance,” which simply means making sure that government rules and laws work better for women. Incorrect Solution: C The SHAKTI Scholars program is entirely focused on women-centric issues. The goal is to study challenges that women face in India, such as safety, legal rights, health, and leadership. By giving grants to researchers in fields like Law, Social Sciences, and Public Policy, the government hopes to get better data. This data is then used to improve “gender-responsive governance,” which simply means making sure that government rules and laws work better for women.

#### 1. Question

What is the main subject area for research under the SHAKTI Scholars fellowship?

• (a) Space Exploration and Astronomy

• (b) Agriculture and Farming Techniques

• (c) Women-centric challenges and Gender Studies

• (d) Underwater Marine Biology

Solution: C

The SHAKTI Scholars program is entirely focused on women-centric issues. The goal is to study challenges that women face in India, such as safety, legal rights, health, and leadership. By giving grants to researchers in fields like Law, Social Sciences, and Public Policy, the government hopes to get better data. This data is then used to improve “gender-responsive governance,” which simply means making sure that government rules and laws work better for women.

Solution: C

• Question 2 of 10 2. Question 1 points With reference to the ‘Raccoon roundworm’, consider the following statements: It is a parasite that primarily lives in raccoons. It can be transmitted to humans, potentially causing damage to the brain and eyes. The eggs of this parasite can survive in the soil for several years. Which of the statements given above are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: D The Raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) is a parasite native to North America. Statement 1 is correct as raccoons are the natural hosts. Statement 2 is correct because if humans accidentally swallow the eggs, the larvae move through the body, causing neurological damage (brain) or blindness (eyes). Statement 3 is correct; the eggs are very tough and remain infectious in the environment for years. While rare in humans, the infection is dangerous, especially for children who might play in contaminated soil. Incorrect Solution: D The Raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) is a parasite native to North America. Statement 1 is correct as raccoons are the natural hosts. Statement 2 is correct because if humans accidentally swallow the eggs, the larvae move through the body, causing neurological damage (brain) or blindness (eyes). Statement 3 is correct; the eggs are very tough and remain infectious in the environment for years. While rare in humans, the infection is dangerous, especially for children who might play in contaminated soil.

#### 2. Question

With reference to the ‘Raccoon roundworm’, consider the following statements:

• It is a parasite that primarily lives in raccoons.

• It can be transmitted to humans, potentially causing damage to the brain and eyes.

• The eggs of this parasite can survive in the soil for several years.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 2 and 3 only

• (c) 1 and 3 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: D

• The Raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) is a parasite native to North America.

• Statement 1 is correct as raccoons are the natural hosts.

• Statement 2 is correct because if humans accidentally swallow the eggs, the larvae move through the body, causing neurological damage (brain) or blindness (eyes).

• Statement 3 is correct; the eggs are very tough and remain infectious in the environment for years. While rare in humans, the infection is dangerous, especially for children who might play in contaminated soil.

Solution: D

• The Raccoon roundworm (Baylisascaris procyonis) is a parasite native to North America.

• Statement 1 is correct as raccoons are the natural hosts.

• Statement 2 is correct because if humans accidentally swallow the eggs, the larvae move through the body, causing neurological damage (brain) or blindness (eyes).

• Question 3 of 10 3. Question 1 points What is the primary purpose of NASA’s MAVEN spacecraft? (a) To study how Mars lost its atmosphere and water over time. (b) To search for signs of ancient life in Martian soil. (c) To act as a landing platform for the Perseverance rover. (d) To map the mineral deposits on the surface of Mars. Correct Solution: A MAVEN (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution) is an orbiter dedicated to studying the upper atmosphere of Mars. Its main job is to find out how the planet turned from a “wet and warm” world into a “cold and dry” one. It found that solar winds from the Sun have been stripping away the Martian atmosphere for billions of years. MAVEN also helps by acting as a communication bridge, sending data from rovers on the ground back to Earth. Incorrect Solution: A MAVEN (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution) is an orbiter dedicated to studying the upper atmosphere of Mars. Its main job is to find out how the planet turned from a “wet and warm” world into a “cold and dry” one. It found that solar winds from the Sun have been stripping away the Martian atmosphere for billions of years. MAVEN also helps by acting as a communication bridge, sending data from rovers on the ground back to Earth.

#### 3. Question

What is the primary purpose of NASA’s MAVEN spacecraft?

• (a) To study how Mars lost its atmosphere and water over time.

• (b) To search for signs of ancient life in Martian soil.

• (c) To act as a landing platform for the Perseverance rover.

• (d) To map the mineral deposits on the surface of Mars.

Solution: A

MAVEN (Mars Atmosphere and Volatile Evolution) is an orbiter dedicated to studying the upper atmosphere of Mars. Its main job is to find out how the planet turned from a “wet and warm” world into a “cold and dry” one. It found that solar winds from the Sun have been stripping away the Martian atmosphere for billions of years. MAVEN also helps by acting as a communication bridge, sending data from rovers on the ground back to Earth.

Solution: A

• Question 4 of 10 4. Question 1 points In the context of cyber security, the term ‘Ghost Pairing’ refers to: (a) A technique to speed up internet connections using two routers. (b) A software update that automatically deletes old messages. (c) A method of encrypted communication used by government officials. (d) A type of fraud where an attacker secretly links their device to a victim’s WhatsApp account. Correct Solution: D Ghost Pairing is a trick used by hackers to gain access to your messaging apps (like WhatsApp). The attacker uses social engineering—sending a fake message or link that creates panic—to trick you into “pairing” your account with their device. Once linked, they can see all your chats, photos, and contacts in real-time. You can prevent this by never clicking on suspicious links and regularly checking the “Linked Devices” section in your app settings to remove any unknown phones. Incorrect Solution: D Ghost Pairing is a trick used by hackers to gain access to your messaging apps (like WhatsApp). The attacker uses social engineering—sending a fake message or link that creates panic—to trick you into “pairing” your account with their device. Once linked, they can see all your chats, photos, and contacts in real-time. You can prevent this by never clicking on suspicious links and regularly checking the “Linked Devices” section in your app settings to remove any unknown phones.

#### 4. Question

In the context of cyber security, the term ‘Ghost Pairing’ refers to:

• (a) A technique to speed up internet connections using two routers.

• (b) A software update that automatically deletes old messages.

• (c) A method of encrypted communication used by government officials.

• (d) A type of fraud where an attacker secretly links their device to a victim’s WhatsApp account.

Solution: D

• Ghost Pairing is a trick used by hackers to gain access to your messaging apps (like WhatsApp). The attacker uses social engineering—sending a fake message or link that creates panic—to trick you into “pairing” your account with their device. Once linked, they can see all your chats, photos, and contacts in real-time. You can prevent this by never clicking on suspicious links and regularly checking the “Linked Devices” section in your app settings to remove any unknown phones.

Solution: D

• Question 5 of 10 5. Question 1 points Consider the following statements regarding space debris (MMOD): It consists of both natural particles and human-made objects like defunct satellites. The Kessler Syndrome describes a chain reaction where collisions create even more debris. Most small pieces of space debris are easily tracked and avoided by spacecraft. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B MMOD stands for Micrometeoroids (natural) and Orbital Debris (human-made). Statement 1 is correct as it includes everything from tiny space dust to old rocket parts. Statement 2 is correct; the Kessler Syndrome is a dangerous situation where there is so much junk in space that one collision leads to many more, making orbits unusable. Statement 3 is incorrect because millions of small pieces are too small to be tracked by radar, making them a hidden danger to astronauts and satellites because they travel at extremely high speeds. Incorrect Solution: B MMOD stands for Micrometeoroids (natural) and Orbital Debris (human-made). Statement 1 is correct as it includes everything from tiny space dust to old rocket parts. Statement 2 is correct; the Kessler Syndrome is a dangerous situation where there is so much junk in space that one collision leads to many more, making orbits unusable. Statement 3 is incorrect because millions of small pieces are too small to be tracked by radar, making them a hidden danger to astronauts and satellites because they travel at extremely high speeds.

#### 5. Question

Consider the following statements regarding space debris (MMOD):

• It consists of both natural particles and human-made objects like defunct satellites.

• The Kessler Syndrome describes a chain reaction where collisions create even more debris.

• Most small pieces of space debris are easily tracked and avoided by spacecraft.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• MMOD stands for Micrometeoroids (natural) and Orbital Debris (human-made).

• Statement 1 is correct as it includes everything from tiny space dust to old rocket parts.

• Statement 2 is correct; the Kessler Syndrome is a dangerous situation where there is so much junk in space that one collision leads to many more, making orbits unusable.

• Statement 3 is incorrect because millions of small pieces are too small to be tracked by radar, making them a hidden danger to astronauts and satellites because they travel at extremely high speeds.

Solution: B

• MMOD stands for Micrometeoroids (natural) and Orbital Debris (human-made).

• Statement 1 is correct as it includes everything from tiny space dust to old rocket parts.

• Statement 2 is correct; the Kessler Syndrome is a dangerous situation where there is so much junk in space that one collision leads to many more, making orbits unusable.

• Question 6 of 10 6. Question 1 points Yellowstone National Park, often in the news for its volcanic activity, is located in: (a) The United States (b) Canada (c) Iceland (d) Russia Correct Solution: A Yellowstone is the world’s first national park, established in 1872 in the Northwestern United States (mostly in Wyoming). It is famous for its geothermal features like geysers (Old Faithful) and hot springs. The park sits on top of a “hotspot” where magma (molten rock) is close to the surface, causing mud pots and frequent minor earthquakes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to animals like grizzly bears and bison. Incorrect Solution: A Yellowstone is the world’s first national park, established in 1872 in the Northwestern United States (mostly in Wyoming). It is famous for its geothermal features like geysers (Old Faithful) and hot springs. The park sits on top of a “hotspot” where magma (molten rock) is close to the surface, causing mud pots and frequent minor earthquakes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to animals like grizzly bears and bison.

#### 6. Question

Yellowstone National Park, often in the news for its volcanic activity, is located in:

• (a) The United States

• (b) Canada

• (c) Iceland

• (d) Russia

Solution: A

Yellowstone is the world’s first national park, established in 1872 in the Northwestern United States (mostly in Wyoming). It is famous for its geothermal features like geysers (Old Faithful) and hot springs. The park sits on top of a “hotspot” where magma (molten rock) is close to the surface, causing mud pots and frequent minor earthquakes. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to animals like grizzly bears and bison.

Solution: A

• Question 7 of 10 7. Question 1 points With reference to space junk, where is ‘Orbital Debris’ mostly concentrated? (a) On the surface of the Moon. (b) In Deep Space beyond Pluto. (c) In Low Earth Orbit (LEO). (d) Inside the Sun's atmosphere. Correct Solution: C Most space junk is found in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), which is the region between 200 km and 2,000 km above Earth. This is where most satellites and the International Space Station (ISS) operate. Because this area is so crowded, there is a higher risk of collisions. This junk includes old satellites, pieces of rockets, and even flecks of paint. Because these objects move at very high speeds (around 10 km per second), even a tiny piece of debris can hit a spacecraft with the force of a bullet. Incorrect Solution: C Most space junk is found in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), which is the region between 200 km and 2,000 km above Earth. This is where most satellites and the International Space Station (ISS) operate. Because this area is so crowded, there is a higher risk of collisions. This junk includes old satellites, pieces of rockets, and even flecks of paint. Because these objects move at very high speeds (around 10 km per second), even a tiny piece of debris can hit a spacecraft with the force of a bullet.

#### 7. Question

With reference to space junk, where is ‘Orbital Debris’ mostly concentrated?

• (a) On the surface of the Moon.

• (b) In Deep Space beyond Pluto.

• (c) In Low Earth Orbit (LEO).

• (d) Inside the Sun's atmosphere.

Solution: C

Most space junk is found in Low Earth Orbit (LEO), which is the region between 200 km and 2,000 km above Earth. This is where most satellites and the International Space Station (ISS) operate. Because this area is so crowded, there is a higher risk of collisions. This junk includes old satellites, pieces of rockets, and even flecks of paint. Because these objects move at very high speeds (around 10 km per second), even a tiny piece of debris can hit a spacecraft with the force of a bullet.

Solution: C

• Question 8 of 10 8. Question 1 points Which of these features is famously found in Yellowstone National Park? (a) The Great Barrier Reef (b) The Old Faithful Geyser (c) Mount Everest (d) The Amazon Rainforest Correct Solution: B Yellowstone National Park is world-famous for its geysers, and Old Faithful is the most well-known of them all. It is called “Faithful” because it erupts very predictably—roughly every 90 minutes. A geyser is a rare type of hot spring that builds up pressure and shoots a tall column of hot water and steam into the air. Yellowstone has over 300 geysers, which is about half of all the geysers on Earth. This happens because the park sits on a giant volcanic hotspot that heats up the underground water. Incorrect Solution: B Yellowstone National Park is world-famous for its geysers, and Old Faithful is the most well-known of them all. It is called “Faithful” because it erupts very predictably—roughly every 90 minutes. A geyser is a rare type of hot spring that builds up pressure and shoots a tall column of hot water and steam into the air. Yellowstone has over 300 geysers, which is about half of all the geysers on Earth. This happens because the park sits on a giant volcanic hotspot that heats up the underground water.

#### 8. Question

Which of these features is famously found in Yellowstone National Park?

• (a) The Great Barrier Reef

• (b) The Old Faithful Geyser

• (c) Mount Everest

• (d) The Amazon Rainforest

Solution: B

Yellowstone National Park is world-famous for its geysers, and Old Faithful is the most well-known of them all. It is called “Faithful” because it erupts very predictably—roughly every 90 minutes. A geyser is a rare type of hot spring that builds up pressure and shoots a tall column of hot water and steam into the air. Yellowstone has over 300 geysers, which is about half of all the geysers on Earth. This happens because the park sits on a giant volcanic hotspot that heats up the underground water.

Solution: B

• Question 9 of 10 9. Question 1 points With reference to the ‘Rasa theory’ mentioned in the Natyashastra, consider the following statements: It explains aesthetic experience through the Rasa–Bhava framework. Shanta Rasa was one of the original rasas strictly defined in the earliest recensions of Natyashastra. The theory is considered a core contribution of the text to Indian aesthetics. 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 Rasa theory explains aesthetic experience through the Rasa–Bhava framework, detailing how emotions (Bhava) are transformed into aesthetic flavor (Rasa). Statement 2 is incorrect: The classical rasas in the Natyashastra include Shringara, Hasya, Karuna, Raudra, Veera, Bhayanaka, Bibhatsa, and Adbhuta. Shanta Rasa (peace) was added by the later tradition (often associated with commentators like Abhinavagupta) and was not part of the original eight rasas in the earliest texts. Statement 3 is correct: Rasa theory is regarded as the core contribution of the Natyashastra to Indian aesthetics. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is correct: The Rasa theory explains aesthetic experience through the Rasa–Bhava framework, detailing how emotions (Bhava) are transformed into aesthetic flavor (Rasa). Statement 2 is incorrect: The classical rasas in the Natyashastra include Shringara, Hasya, Karuna, Raudra, Veera, Bhayanaka, Bibhatsa, and Adbhuta. Shanta Rasa (peace) was added by the later tradition (often associated with commentators like Abhinavagupta) and was not part of the original eight rasas in the earliest texts. Statement 3 is correct: Rasa theory is regarded as the core contribution of the Natyashastra to Indian aesthetics.

#### 9. Question

With reference to the ‘Rasa theory’ mentioned in the Natyashastra, consider the following statements:

• It explains aesthetic experience through the Rasa–Bhava framework.

• Shanta Rasa was one of the original rasas strictly defined in the earliest recensions of Natyashastra.

• The theory is considered a core contribution of the text to Indian aesthetics.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct: The Rasa theory explains aesthetic experience through the Rasa–Bhava framework, detailing how emotions (Bhava) are transformed into aesthetic flavor (Rasa).

• Statement 2 is incorrect: The classical rasas in the Natyashastra include Shringara, Hasya, Karuna, Raudra, Veera, Bhayanaka, Bibhatsa, and Adbhuta. Shanta Rasa (peace) was added by the later tradition (often associated with commentators like Abhinavagupta) and was not part of the original eight rasas in the earliest texts.

• Statement 3 is correct: Rasa theory is regarded as the core contribution of the Natyashastra to Indian aesthetics.

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is correct: The Rasa theory explains aesthetic experience through the Rasa–Bhava framework, detailing how emotions (Bhava) are transformed into aesthetic flavor (Rasa).

• Statement 3 is correct: Rasa theory is regarded as the core contribution of the Natyashastra to Indian aesthetics.

• Question 10 of 10 10. Question 1 points With reference to the events leading to the 1971 India-Pakistan war, consider the following statements: Statement I: The immediate trigger for the mass agitation in East Pakistan was the denial of transfer of power to the Awami League despite their decisive majority in the 1970 elections. Statement II: The Simla Agreement was signed in 1972 primarily to facilitate the return of refugees from India to the newly formed state of Bangladesh. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct Correct Solution: C Statement I is correct: The political crisis began when the Awami League, having won a mandate in the 1970 elections, was denied the transfer of power. This democratic subversion triggered the mass agitation and subsequent military crackdown in East Pakistan. Statement II is incorrect: The Simla Agreement (1972) was the post-war settlement between India and Pakistan to establish a framework for bilateral relations and peace. While the refugee crisis was a cause of the war, the Simla Agreement focused on the repatriation of Prisoners of War (POWs), the Line of Control, and bilateral dispute resolution. The refugees had largely begun returning immediately after the liberation of Bangladesh in December 1971, well before the Simla Agreement in July 1972. Incorrect Solution: C Statement I is correct: The political crisis began when the Awami League, having won a mandate in the 1970 elections, was denied the transfer of power. This democratic subversion triggered the mass agitation and subsequent military crackdown in East Pakistan. Statement II is incorrect: The Simla Agreement (1972) was the post-war settlement between India and Pakistan to establish a framework for bilateral relations and peace. While the refugee crisis was a cause of the war, the Simla Agreement focused on the repatriation of Prisoners of War (POWs), the Line of Control, and bilateral dispute resolution. The refugees had largely begun returning immediately after the liberation of Bangladesh in December 1971, well before the Simla Agreement in July 1972.

#### 10. Question

With reference to the events leading to the 1971 India-Pakistan war, consider the following statements:

Statement I: The immediate trigger for the mass agitation in East Pakistan was the denial of transfer of power to the Awami League despite their decisive majority in the 1970 elections.

Statement II: The Simla Agreement was signed in 1972 primarily to facilitate the return of refugees from India to the newly formed state of Bangladesh.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

• a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

• b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

• c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect

• d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Solution: C

• Statement I is correct: The political crisis began when the Awami League, having won a mandate in the 1970 elections, was denied the transfer of power. This democratic subversion triggered the mass agitation and subsequent military crackdown in East Pakistan.

• Statement II is incorrect: The Simla Agreement (1972) was the post-war settlement between India and Pakistan to establish a framework for bilateral relations and peace. While the refugee crisis was a cause of the war, the Simla Agreement focused on the repatriation of Prisoners of War (POWs), the Line of Control, and bilateral dispute resolution. The refugees had largely begun returning immediately after the liberation of Bangladesh in December 1971, well before the Simla Agreement in July 1972.

Solution: C

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