UPSC Editorials Quiz : 13 August 2025

Introducing QUED – Questions from Editorials (UPSC Editorials Quiz) , an innovative initiative from InsightsIAS. Considering the significant number of questions in previous UPSC Prelims from editorials, practicing MCQs from this perspective can provide an extra edge. While we cover important editorials separately in our Editorial Section and SECURE Initiative, adding QUED (UPSC Editorials Quiz) to your daily MCQ practice alongside Static Quiz, Current Affairs Quiz, and InstaDART can be crucial for better performance. We recommend utilizing this initiative to enhance your preparation, with 5 MCQs posted daily at 11 am from Monday to Saturday on our website under the QUIZ menu.

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• Question 1 of 5 1. Question Which of the following statements best describes the primary objective of India’s Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations? (a) To establish a framework for offensive cyber operations against hostile nations. (b) To create a unified approach for the armed forces to conduct operations in cyberspace across conventional and sub-conventional conflicts. (c) To regulate the use of social media and communication platforms during national emergencies. (d) To promote the development of indigenous hardware and software for cybersecurity. Correct Solution: B The Indian Armed Forces have released a Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations (JDCO) to address growing threats in the digital domain. The primary objective of a joint doctrine for cyberspace operations is to ensure seamless integration and coordination among the different branches of the armed forces—the Army, Navy, and Air Force—when conducting operations in the cyber domain. This doctrine provides a common framework, language, and set of procedures for planning and executing cyberspace operations. The core purpose is to treat cyberspace as a critical operational environment, alongside land, sea, air, and space, and to leverage it effectively to achieve military objectives. This includes defending military networks, conducting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), and, when necessary, launching cyber-attacks to disrupt an adversary’s capabilities. The doctrine aims to ensure that cyber operations are integrated with traditional military operations to create a synergistic effect. Incorrect Solution: B The Indian Armed Forces have released a Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations (JDCO) to address growing threats in the digital domain. The primary objective of a joint doctrine for cyberspace operations is to ensure seamless integration and coordination among the different branches of the armed forces—the Army, Navy, and Air Force—when conducting operations in the cyber domain. This doctrine provides a common framework, language, and set of procedures for planning and executing cyberspace operations. The core purpose is to treat cyberspace as a critical operational environment, alongside land, sea, air, and space, and to leverage it effectively to achieve military objectives. This includes defending military networks, conducting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), and, when necessary, launching cyber-attacks to disrupt an adversary’s capabilities. The doctrine aims to ensure that cyber operations are integrated with traditional military operations to create a synergistic effect.

#### 1. Question

Which of the following statements best describes the primary objective of India’s Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations?

• (a) To establish a framework for offensive cyber operations against hostile nations.

• (b) To create a unified approach for the armed forces to conduct operations in cyberspace across conventional and sub-conventional conflicts.

• (c) To regulate the use of social media and communication platforms during national emergencies.

• (d) To promote the development of indigenous hardware and software for cybersecurity.

Solution: B

The Indian Armed Forces have released a Joint Doctrine for Cyberspace Operations (JDCO) to address growing threats in the digital domain. The primary objective of a joint doctrine for cyberspace operations is to ensure seamless integration and coordination among the different branches of the armed forces—the Army, Navy, and Air Force—when conducting operations in the cyber domain. This doctrine provides a common framework, language, and set of procedures for planning and executing cyberspace operations.

The core purpose is to treat cyberspace as a critical operational environment, alongside land, sea, air, and space, and to leverage it effectively to achieve military objectives. This includes defending military networks, conducting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), and, when necessary, launching cyber-attacks to disrupt an adversary’s capabilities. The doctrine aims to ensure that cyber operations are integrated with traditional military operations to create a synergistic effect.

Solution: B

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Consider the following statements regarding Amphibious Operations: They are exclusively military in nature and are only conducted during wartime. These operations are characterized by the integration of naval, air, and land forces. The primary purpose of such operations is to establish a beachhead for subsequent large-scale land offensives. 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 incorrect. Amphibious operations are not exclusively military in nature and are not limited to wartime scenarios. They have a flexible mission profile and are frequently employed for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). For example, after a tsunami or a cyclone, amphibious ships can be used to deliver aid, medical supplies, and personnel to affected coastal areas that may be inaccessible by land. Statement 2 is correct. A defining feature of amphibious operations is the tri-service integration. These complex operations require the seamless coordination of naval forces (for transport and fire support), air forces (for air superiority, close air support, and reconnaissance), and land forces (which conduct the assault and secure objectives ashore). The success of an amphibious operation hinges on the ability of these three services to work together as a cohesive unit. Statement 3 is incorrect. While establishing a beachhead for a larger offensive is one possible objective, it is not the sole purpose of amphibious operations. Other objectives can include raids on specific targets, feints to deceive the enemy, withdrawal of forces, or force projection in contested zones to demonstrate presence and resolve. Therefore, the purpose of such operations is much broader than just enabling a large-scale land invasion. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect. Amphibious operations are not exclusively military in nature and are not limited to wartime scenarios. They have a flexible mission profile and are frequently employed for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). For example, after a tsunami or a cyclone, amphibious ships can be used to deliver aid, medical supplies, and personnel to affected coastal areas that may be inaccessible by land. Statement 2 is correct. A defining feature of amphibious operations is the tri-service integration. These complex operations require the seamless coordination of naval forces (for transport and fire support), air forces (for air superiority, close air support, and reconnaissance), and land forces (which conduct the assault and secure objectives ashore). The success of an amphibious operation hinges on the ability of these three services to work together as a cohesive unit. Statement 3 is incorrect. While establishing a beachhead for a larger offensive is one possible objective, it is not the sole purpose of amphibious operations. Other objectives can include raids on specific targets, feints to deceive the enemy, withdrawal of forces, or force projection in contested zones to demonstrate presence and resolve. Therefore, the purpose of such operations is much broader than just enabling a large-scale land invasion.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Amphibious Operations:

• They are exclusively military in nature and are only conducted during wartime.

• These operations are characterized by the integration of naval, air, and land forces.

• The primary purpose of such operations is to establish a beachhead for subsequent large-scale land offensives.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Statement 1 is incorrect. Amphibious operations are not exclusively military in nature and are not limited to wartime scenarios. They have a flexible mission profile and are frequently employed for Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR). For example, after a tsunami or a cyclone, amphibious ships can be used to deliver aid, medical supplies, and personnel to affected coastal areas that may be inaccessible by land.

• Statement 2 is correct. A defining feature of amphibious operations is the tri-service integration. These complex operations require the seamless coordination of naval forces (for transport and fire support), air forces (for air superiority, close air support, and reconnaissance), and land forces (which conduct the assault and secure objectives ashore). The success of an amphibious operation hinges on the ability of these three services to work together as a cohesive unit.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. While establishing a beachhead for a larger offensive is one possible objective, it is not the sole purpose of amphibious operations. Other objectives can include raids on specific targets, feints to deceive the enemy, withdrawal of forces, or force projection in contested zones to demonstrate presence and resolve. Therefore, the purpose of such operations is much broader than just enabling a large-scale land invasion.

Solution: A

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question With reference to ‘Kartavya Bhavan’, consider the following statements: It is the official residence of the Prime Minister of India under the Central Vista redevelopment project. The building is designed with a GRIHA-4 green rating, incorporating features like rooftop solar panels and rainwater harvesting. It aims to consolidate various central ministry offices, thereby improving administrative efficiency and reducing rental costs. 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 incorrect. Kartavya Bhavan is a Common Central Secretariat (CCS) building, not the Prime Minister’s residence. It is designed to house several Union ministries. The Prime Minister’s residence is a separate component of the Central Vista redevelopment project. Statement 2 is correct. Kartavya Bhavan has been designed with a strong focus on sustainability. It aims for a GRIHA-4 (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) rating, which is a high standard for green buildings in India. Key green features include rooftop solar panels to generate electricity, a rainwater harvesting system, and zero-discharge waste processing. These features are intended to reduce the building’s environmental footprint. Statement 3 is correct. A primary objective of the Common Central Secretariat buildings, including Kartavya Bhavan, is to consolidate over 50 central ministry offices that are currently scattered across Delhi. By bringing these ministries together in a centralized location, the government aims to enhance coordination and administrative efficiency. This consolidation is also expected to result in significant cost savings, estimated at around ₹1,500 crore annually in rent and maintenance once all the CCS buildings are completed. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect. Kartavya Bhavan is a Common Central Secretariat (CCS) building, not the Prime Minister’s residence. It is designed to house several Union ministries. The Prime Minister’s residence is a separate component of the Central Vista redevelopment project. Statement 2 is correct. Kartavya Bhavan has been designed with a strong focus on sustainability. It aims for a GRIHA-4 (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) rating, which is a high standard for green buildings in India. Key green features include rooftop solar panels to generate electricity, a rainwater harvesting system, and zero-discharge waste processing. These features are intended to reduce the building’s environmental footprint. Statement 3 is correct. A primary objective of the Common Central Secretariat buildings, including Kartavya Bhavan, is to consolidate over 50 central ministry offices that are currently scattered across Delhi. By bringing these ministries together in a centralized location, the government aims to enhance coordination and administrative efficiency. This consolidation is also expected to result in significant cost savings, estimated at around ₹1,500 crore annually in rent and maintenance once all the CCS buildings are completed.

#### 3. Question

With reference to ‘Kartavya Bhavan’, consider the following statements:

• It is the official residence of the Prime Minister of India under the Central Vista redevelopment project.

• The building is designed with a GRIHA-4 green rating, incorporating features like rooftop solar panels and rainwater harvesting.

• It aims to consolidate various central ministry offices, thereby improving administrative efficiency and reducing rental costs.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is incorrect. Kartavya Bhavan is a Common Central Secretariat (CCS) building, not the Prime Minister’s residence. It is designed to house several Union ministries. The Prime Minister’s residence is a separate component of the Central Vista redevelopment project.

• Statement 2 is correct. Kartavya Bhavan has been designed with a strong focus on sustainability. It aims for a GRIHA-4 (Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment) rating, which is a high standard for green buildings in India. Key green features include rooftop solar panels to generate electricity, a rainwater harvesting system, and zero-discharge waste processing. These features are intended to reduce the building’s environmental footprint.

• Statement 3 is correct. A primary objective of the Common Central Secretariat buildings, including Kartavya Bhavan, is to consolidate over 50 central ministry offices that are currently scattered across Delhi. By bringing these ministries together in a centralized location, the government aims to enhance coordination and administrative efficiency. This consolidation is also expected to result in significant cost savings, estimated at around ₹1,500 crore annually in rent and maintenance once all the CCS buildings are completed.

Solution: B

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements regarding the World Trade Organization (WTO): The WTO was established as a replacement for the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) following the Bretton Woods Conference. The decisions within the WTO are typically made by a majority vote of the member countries. The WTO’s dispute settlement mechanism has the authority to impose binding sanctions on a member country found to be in violation of its trade obligations. 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 incorrect. The WTO was established following the Uruguay Round of trade negotiations (1986–94), not the Bretton Woods Conference (1944). The Bretton Woods Conference led to the creation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. While the idea of an International Trade Organization (ITO) was discussed at the time, it did not materialize, and GATT was created as an interim agreement in 1947. The WTO eventually replaced GATT in 1995. Statement 2 is incorrect. The WTO operates on the principle of consensus, not majority voting. This means that decisions are made when no member country formally objects. This approach ensures that the decisions have the support of the entire membership. While the WTO agreements do contain provisions for voting in exceptional circumstances, it is rarely used. Statement 3 is correct. The Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) is a core function of the WTO and is often referred to as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the organization. When a member country brings a complaint against another member, a panel is established to adjudicate the dispute. If the panel’s ruling, which can be appealed to the Appellate Body, finds a country to be in violation of its WTO obligations, it can recommend that the country bring its measures into conformity. If the country fails to do so, the DSB can authorize the complaining country to impose retaliatory trade sanctions. These rulings are binding. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect. The WTO was established following the Uruguay Round of trade negotiations (1986–94), not the Bretton Woods Conference (1944). The Bretton Woods Conference led to the creation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. While the idea of an International Trade Organization (ITO) was discussed at the time, it did not materialize, and GATT was created as an interim agreement in 1947. The WTO eventually replaced GATT in 1995. Statement 2 is incorrect. The WTO operates on the principle of consensus, not majority voting. This means that decisions are made when no member country formally objects. This approach ensures that the decisions have the support of the entire membership. While the WTO agreements do contain provisions for voting in exceptional circumstances, it is rarely used. Statement 3 is correct. The Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) is a core function of the WTO and is often referred to as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the organization. When a member country brings a complaint against another member, a panel is established to adjudicate the dispute. If the panel’s ruling, which can be appealed to the Appellate Body, finds a country to be in violation of its WTO obligations, it can recommend that the country bring its measures into conformity. If the country fails to do so, the DSB can authorize the complaining country to impose retaliatory trade sanctions. These rulings are binding.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the World Trade Organization (WTO):

• The WTO was established as a replacement for the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) following the Bretton Woods Conference.

• The decisions within the WTO are typically made by a majority vote of the member countries.

• The WTO’s dispute settlement mechanism has the authority to impose binding sanctions on a member country found to be in violation of its trade obligations.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The WTO was established following the Uruguay Round of trade negotiations (1986–94), not the Bretton Woods Conference (1944). The Bretton Woods Conference led to the creation of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and the World Bank. While the idea of an International Trade Organization (ITO) was discussed at the time, it did not materialize, and GATT was created as an interim agreement in 1947. The WTO eventually replaced GATT in 1995.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The WTO operates on the principle of consensus, not majority voting. This means that decisions are made when no member country formally objects. This approach ensures that the decisions have the support of the entire membership. While the WTO agreements do contain provisions for voting in exceptional circumstances, it is rarely used.

• Statement 3 is correct. The Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) is a core function of the WTO and is often referred to as the ‘jewel in the crown’ of the organization. When a member country brings a complaint against another member, a panel is established to adjudicate the dispute. If the panel’s ruling, which can be appealed to the Appellate Body, finds a country to be in violation of its WTO obligations, it can recommend that the country bring its measures into conformity. If the country fails to do so, the DSB can authorize the complaining country to impose retaliatory trade sanctions. These rulings are binding.

Solution: A

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question The phenomenon of ‘coral bleaching’ is primarily caused by: (a) The excessive growth of symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae within the coral's tissues. (b) A viral infection that targets the coral polyps, causing them to lose their pigmentation. (c) The expulsion of symbiotic algae from the coral's tissues due to environmental stress. (d) The deposition of sediments and pollutants on the coral surface, which blocks sunlight. Correct Solution: C Coral bleaching is a stress response in corals. The vibrant colors of healthy corals are due to the presence of microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, which live in a symbiotic relationship within the coral’s tissues. These algae provide the coral with most of its food through photosynthesis. When the coral is subjected to environmental stress, particularly increased sea temperatures, this symbiotic relationship breaks down. The coral expels the zooxanthellae, causing it to lose its color and turn white, hence the term ‘bleaching’. Bleaching leaves the coral in a weakened state, and if the stress is prolonged, the coral will starve and die. Incorrect Solution: C Coral bleaching is a stress response in corals. The vibrant colors of healthy corals are due to the presence of microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, which live in a symbiotic relationship within the coral’s tissues. These algae provide the coral with most of its food through photosynthesis. When the coral is subjected to environmental stress, particularly increased sea temperatures, this symbiotic relationship breaks down. The coral expels the zooxanthellae, causing it to lose its color and turn white, hence the term ‘bleaching’. Bleaching leaves the coral in a weakened state, and if the stress is prolonged, the coral will starve and die.

#### 5. Question

The phenomenon of ‘coral bleaching’ is primarily caused by:

• (a) The excessive growth of symbiotic algae called zooxanthellae within the coral's tissues.

• (b) A viral infection that targets the coral polyps, causing them to lose their pigmentation.

• (c) The expulsion of symbiotic algae from the coral's tissues due to environmental stress.

• (d) The deposition of sediments and pollutants on the coral surface, which blocks sunlight.

Solution: C

Coral bleaching is a stress response in corals. The vibrant colors of healthy corals are due to the presence of microscopic algae called zooxanthellae, which live in a symbiotic relationship within the coral’s tissues. These algae provide the coral with most of its food through photosynthesis. When the coral is subjected to environmental stress, particularly increased sea temperatures, this symbiotic relationship breaks down. The coral expels the zooxanthellae, causing it to lose its color and turn white, hence the term ‘bleaching’. Bleaching leaves the coral in a weakened state, and if the stress is prolonged, the coral will starve and die.

Solution: C

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