UPSC Editorials Quiz : 14 March 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 challenges are associated with gene editing? Off-target effects leading to unintended genetic modifications. Ethical concerns regarding human germline editing. Increased risk of genetic uniformity in crops, making them vulnerable to diseases. Select the correct answer using the codes below: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: D Gene editing presents several challenges despite its revolutionary potential. Off-target effects (Statement 1) occur when unintended genetic modifications are introduced, leading to unpredictable mutations that may cause harmful consequences. This is a significant concern in both medical and agricultural applications. Ethical concerns (Statement 2) arise, especially in human germline editing, where modifications to embryos, sperm, or eggs could be passed to future generations. This raises moral and safety dilemmas regarding unintended consequences and potential misuse for genetic enhancement. In agriculture, widespread gene-editing could lead to genetic uniformity in crops (Statement 3), reducing genetic diversity. This makes crops more vulnerable to pests and diseases, as a single pathogen could wipe out entire populations lacking natural resistance. Incorrect Solution: D Gene editing presents several challenges despite its revolutionary potential. Off-target effects (Statement 1) occur when unintended genetic modifications are introduced, leading to unpredictable mutations that may cause harmful consequences. This is a significant concern in both medical and agricultural applications. Ethical concerns (Statement 2) arise, especially in human germline editing, where modifications to embryos, sperm, or eggs could be passed to future generations. This raises moral and safety dilemmas regarding unintended consequences and potential misuse for genetic enhancement. In agriculture, widespread gene-editing could lead to genetic uniformity in crops (Statement 3), reducing genetic diversity. This makes crops more vulnerable to pests and diseases, as a single pathogen could wipe out entire populations lacking natural resistance.

#### 1. Question

Which of the following challenges are associated with gene editing?

• Off-target effects leading to unintended genetic modifications.

• Ethical concerns regarding human germline editing.

• Increased risk of genetic uniformity in crops, making them vulnerable to diseases.

Select the correct answer using the codes below:

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 1 and 3 only

• (c) 2 and 3 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: D

• Gene editing presents several challenges despite its revolutionary potential.

• Off-target effects (Statement 1) occur when unintended genetic modifications are introduced, leading to unpredictable mutations that may cause harmful consequences. This is a significant concern in both medical and agricultural applications.

• Ethical concerns (Statement 2) arise, especially in human germline editing, where modifications to embryos, sperm, or eggs could be passed to future generations. This raises moral and safety dilemmas regarding unintended consequences and potential misuse for genetic enhancement.

• In agriculture, widespread gene-editing could lead to genetic uniformity in crops (Statement 3), reducing genetic diversity. This makes crops more vulnerable to pests and diseases, as a single pathogen could wipe out entire populations lacking natural resistance.

Solution: D

• Gene editing presents several challenges despite its revolutionary potential.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Which of the following best explains why the National Statistical Office (NSO)’s GDP estimates sometimes differ from the RBI’s projections? (a) NSO's data is seasonally adjusted, while RBI’s projections consider only annual trends. (b) RBI’s projections are calculated based on business sentiment, whereas NSO directly surveys economic sectors. (c) NSO estimates GDP based on real economic activity, whereas RBI projections rely on monetary policy trends. (d) NSO does not include services sector performance in GDP calculations, leading to different estimates. Correct Solution: C The National Statistical Office (NSO) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) use different methodologies for estimating GDP, leading to occasional discrepancies in their figures. The NSO calculates GDP based on real economic activity, collecting data directly from various sectors, including agriculture, industry, and services. It follows established statistical methodologies, relying on actual output and expenditure figures. On the other hand, the RBI’s GDP projections are based on monetary policy indicators, credit growth, inflation trends, and business sentiment. It uses economic modeling, surveys, and high-frequency indicators rather than direct sectoral surveys. Since NSO’s estimates reflect real-time economic activity, while RBI’s projections are more forward-looking and influenced by monetary policy trends, their figures can sometimes differ. Incorrect Solution: C The National Statistical Office (NSO) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) use different methodologies for estimating GDP, leading to occasional discrepancies in their figures. The NSO calculates GDP based on real economic activity, collecting data directly from various sectors, including agriculture, industry, and services. It follows established statistical methodologies, relying on actual output and expenditure figures. On the other hand, the RBI’s GDP projections are based on monetary policy indicators, credit growth, inflation trends, and business sentiment. It uses economic modeling, surveys, and high-frequency indicators rather than direct sectoral surveys. Since NSO’s estimates reflect real-time economic activity, while RBI’s projections are more forward-looking and influenced by monetary policy trends, their figures can sometimes differ.

#### 2. Question

Which of the following best explains why the National Statistical Office (NSO)’s GDP estimates sometimes differ from the RBI’s projections?

• (a) NSO's data is seasonally adjusted, while RBI’s projections consider only annual trends.

• (b) RBI’s projections are calculated based on business sentiment, whereas NSO directly surveys economic sectors.

• (c) NSO estimates GDP based on real economic activity, whereas RBI projections rely on monetary policy trends.

• (d) NSO does not include services sector performance in GDP calculations, leading to different estimates.

Solution: C

• The National Statistical Office (NSO) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) use different methodologies for estimating GDP, leading to occasional discrepancies in their figures.

• The NSO calculates GDP based on real economic activity, collecting data directly from various sectors, including agriculture, industry, and services. It follows established statistical methodologies, relying on actual output and expenditure figures.

• On the other hand, the RBI’s GDP projections are based on monetary policy indicators, credit growth, inflation trends, and business sentiment. It uses economic modeling, surveys, and high-frequency indicators rather than direct sectoral surveys.

• Since NSO’s estimates reflect real-time economic activity, while RBI’s projections are more forward-looking and influenced by monetary policy trends, their figures can sometimes differ.

Solution: C

• The National Statistical Office (NSO) and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) use different methodologies for estimating GDP, leading to occasional discrepancies in their figures.

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements regarding the premium rates and subsidy mechanism of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): The premium rates for farmers are fixed at 1.5% for Rabi crops and 2% for Kharif crops, with the remaining amount being equally shared between the Central and State Governments. In the North-Eastern states, the Central Government contributes 90% of the total premium subsidy. Commercial and horticulture crops have a uniform premium of 5% payable by farmers, regardless of the crop type or geographical location. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is designed to provide affordable crop insurance to farmers while sharing the premium burden between the government and farmers. Statement 1 is correct: Farmers pay a fixed premium rate of 2% for Kharif crops and 1.5% for Rabi crops, while the remaining premium is equally shared by the Central and State Governments. This structure ensures affordability while covering farmers against crop losses. Statement 2 is correct: To support the economically weaker North-Eastern states, the Central Government contributes 90% of the total premium subsidy, reducing the financial burden on state governments. Statement 3 is incorrect: While the premium rate for commercial and horticultural crops is 5%, it varies based on crop type, geographical location, and risk factors, meaning it is not uniform across all crops. Incorrect Solution: B The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is designed to provide affordable crop insurance to farmers while sharing the premium burden between the government and farmers. Statement 1 is correct: Farmers pay a fixed premium rate of 2% for Kharif crops and 1.5% for Rabi crops, while the remaining premium is equally shared by the Central and State Governments. This structure ensures affordability while covering farmers against crop losses. Statement 2 is correct: To support the economically weaker North-Eastern states, the Central Government contributes 90% of the total premium subsidy, reducing the financial burden on state governments. Statement 3 is incorrect: While the premium rate for commercial and horticultural crops is 5%, it varies based on crop type, geographical location, and risk factors, meaning it is not uniform across all crops.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the premium rates and subsidy mechanism of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY):

• The premium rates for farmers are fixed at 1.5% for Rabi crops and 2% for Kharif crops, with the remaining amount being equally shared between the Central and State Governments.

• In the North-Eastern states, the Central Government contributes 90% of the total premium subsidy.

• Commercial and horticulture crops have a uniform premium of 5% payable by farmers, regardless of the crop type or geographical location.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is designed to provide affordable crop insurance to farmers while sharing the premium burden between the government and farmers.

• Statement 1 is correct: Farmers pay a fixed premium rate of 2% for Kharif crops and 1.5% for Rabi crops, while the remaining premium is equally shared by the Central and State Governments. This structure ensures affordability while covering farmers against crop losses.

• Statement 2 is correct: To support the economically weaker North-Eastern states, the Central Government contributes 90% of the total premium subsidy, reducing the financial burden on state governments.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: While the premium rate for commercial and horticultural crops is 5%, it varies based on crop type, geographical location, and risk factors, meaning it is not uniform across all crops.

Solution: B

The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is designed to provide affordable crop insurance to farmers while sharing the premium burden between the government and farmers.

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following functions of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA): Registration of exporters dealing in scheduled agricultural and processed food products. Development of infrastructure related to agricultural exports, such as packhouses and cold storage. Regulation of minimum support price (MSP) for scheduled agricultural products. Which of the above statements are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 only (d) 1, 2, and 3 Correct Solution: A The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, tasked with promoting agricultural exports and ensuring quality compliance. Statement 1 is correct: APEDA is responsible for the registration of exporters dealing in scheduled agricultural and processed food products. Exporters must obtain an APEDA Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) to receive export benefits, participate in international trade fairs, and access financial assistance schemes. Statement 2 is correct: APEDA plays a crucial role in developing export-related infrastructure, such as cold storage units, packhouses, ripening chambers, and irradiation facilities. These facilities help maintain product quality and meet international safety standards. Statement 3 is incorrect: APEDA does not regulate the Minimum Support Price (MSP). MSP is determined by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare to ensure fair prices for farmers. Incorrect Solution: A The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, tasked with promoting agricultural exports and ensuring quality compliance. Statement 1 is correct: APEDA is responsible for the registration of exporters dealing in scheduled agricultural and processed food products. Exporters must obtain an APEDA Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) to receive export benefits, participate in international trade fairs, and access financial assistance schemes. Statement 2 is correct: APEDA plays a crucial role in developing export-related infrastructure, such as cold storage units, packhouses, ripening chambers, and irradiation facilities. These facilities help maintain product quality and meet international safety standards. Statement 3 is incorrect: APEDA does not regulate the Minimum Support Price (MSP). MSP is determined by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare to ensure fair prices for farmers.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following functions of Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA):

• Registration of exporters dealing in scheduled agricultural and processed food products.

• Development of infrastructure related to agricultural exports, such as packhouses and cold storage.

• Regulation of minimum support price (MSP) for scheduled agricultural products.

Which of the above statements are correct?

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 2 and 3 only

• (c) 1 only

• (d) 1, 2, and 3

Solution: A

The Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) is a statutory body under the Ministry of Commerce & Industry, tasked with promoting agricultural exports and ensuring quality compliance.

• Statement 1 is correct: APEDA is responsible for the registration of exporters dealing in scheduled agricultural and processed food products. Exporters must obtain an APEDA Registration-Cum-Membership Certificate (RCMC) to receive export benefits, participate in international trade fairs, and access financial assistance schemes.

• Statement 2 is correct: APEDA plays a crucial role in developing export-related infrastructure, such as cold storage units, packhouses, ripening chambers, and irradiation facilities. These facilities help maintain product quality and meet international safety standards.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: APEDA does not regulate the Minimum Support Price (MSP). MSP is determined by the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare to ensure fair prices for farmers.

Solution: A

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Consider the following key objectives of the Grant-in-Aid to National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) for Cooperative Sugar Mills: Enhancing ethanol production capacity to support the National Biofuel Policy. Facilitating the establishment of integrated sugar complexes, including dairy and agro-processing units. Promoting solar energy installations in cooperative sugar mills to achieve renewable energy targets. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: D The Grant-in-Aid to NCDC for Cooperative Sugar Mills aims to modernize and diversify the operations of cooperative sugar mills, making them more sustainable and financially viable. Statement 1 is correct: The grant supports ethanol production under the National Biofuel Policy, which promotes ethanol blending in fuel to reduce India’s dependency on fossil fuels and cut crude oil imports. Ethanol production also helps sugar mills reduce excess sugar stocks and generate additional revenue. Statement 2 is correct: The initiative encourages integrated sugar complexes, which include dairy processing, agro-processing, and value-added product units. This diversification helps reduce financial reliance on sugar production and enhances economic stability. Statement 3 is correct: The grant also promotes solar energy installations in cooperative sugar mills, encouraging the adoption of renewable energy solutions such as rooftop solar panels and biomass cogeneration plants. This move aligns with India’s sustainability and energy security goals. Incorrect Solution: D The Grant-in-Aid to NCDC for Cooperative Sugar Mills aims to modernize and diversify the operations of cooperative sugar mills, making them more sustainable and financially viable. Statement 1 is correct: The grant supports ethanol production under the National Biofuel Policy, which promotes ethanol blending in fuel to reduce India’s dependency on fossil fuels and cut crude oil imports. Ethanol production also helps sugar mills reduce excess sugar stocks and generate additional revenue. Statement 2 is correct: The initiative encourages integrated sugar complexes, which include dairy processing, agro-processing, and value-added product units. This diversification helps reduce financial reliance on sugar production and enhances economic stability. Statement 3 is correct: The grant also promotes solar energy installations in cooperative sugar mills, encouraging the adoption of renewable energy solutions such as rooftop solar panels and biomass cogeneration plants. This move aligns with India’s sustainability and energy security goals.

#### 5. Question

Consider the following key objectives of the Grant-in-Aid to National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) for Cooperative Sugar Mills:

• Enhancing ethanol production capacity to support the National Biofuel Policy.

• Facilitating the establishment of integrated sugar complexes, including dairy and agro-processing units.

• Promoting solar energy installations in cooperative sugar mills to achieve renewable energy targets.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) 1 and 2 only

• (b) 1 and 3 only

• (c) 2 and 3 only

• (d) 1, 2 and 3

Solution: D

The Grant-in-Aid to NCDC for Cooperative Sugar Mills aims to modernize and diversify the operations of cooperative sugar mills, making them more sustainable and financially viable.

• Statement 1 is correct: The grant supports ethanol production under the National Biofuel Policy, which promotes ethanol blending in fuel to reduce India’s dependency on fossil fuels and cut crude oil imports. Ethanol production also helps sugar mills reduce excess sugar stocks and generate additional revenue.

• Statement 2 is correct: The initiative encourages integrated sugar complexes, which include dairy processing, agro-processing, and value-added product units. This diversification helps reduce financial reliance on sugar production and enhances economic stability.

• Statement 3 is correct: The grant also promotes solar energy installations in cooperative sugar mills, encouraging the adoption of renewable energy solutions such as rooftop solar panels and biomass cogeneration plants. This move aligns with India’s sustainability and energy security goals.

Solution: D

The Grant-in-Aid to NCDC for Cooperative Sugar Mills aims to modernize and diversify the operations of cooperative sugar mills, making them more sustainable and financially viable.

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