UPSC Editorials Quiz : 18 June 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 Consider the following statements: Statement-I: Tectonic activity in the Himalayas is a major natural cause of landslides in the region. Statement-II: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has recommended the preparation of Landslide Hazard Zonation maps and the implementation of Early Warning Systems as key mitigation strategies. 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: b) Statement-I is correct. The Himalayas are a young, tectonically active mountain range formed by the ongoing collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. This constant geological activity results in fragile rock structures, frequent seismic events, and steep, unstable slopes, all of which are primary natural factors that make the region highly susceptible to landslides. Statement-II is also correct. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued comprehensive guidelines for managing landslide risk. These guidelines emphasize a shift from a reactive to a proactive approach. Key recommendations include non-structural measures like preparing Landslide Hazard Zonation (LHZ) maps to identify vulnerable areas and developing technology-driven Early Warning Systems (EWS) to provide timely alerts to communities at risk. However, Statement-II is not an explanation for Statement-I. Incorrect Solution: b) Statement-I is correct. The Himalayas are a young, tectonically active mountain range formed by the ongoing collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. This constant geological activity results in fragile rock structures, frequent seismic events, and steep, unstable slopes, all of which are primary natural factors that make the region highly susceptible to landslides. Statement-II is also correct. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued comprehensive guidelines for managing landslide risk. These guidelines emphasize a shift from a reactive to a proactive approach. Key recommendations include non-structural measures like preparing Landslide Hazard Zonation (LHZ) maps to identify vulnerable areas and developing technology-driven Early Warning Systems (EWS) to provide timely alerts to communities at risk. However, Statement-II is not an explanation for Statement-I.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements:

Statement-I: Tectonic activity in the Himalayas is a major natural cause of landslides in the region. Statement-II: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has recommended the preparation of Landslide Hazard Zonation maps and the implementation of Early Warning Systems as key mitigation strategies.

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: b)

• Statement-I is correct. The Himalayas are a young, tectonically active mountain range formed by the ongoing collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. This constant geological activity results in fragile rock structures, frequent seismic events, and steep, unstable slopes, all of which are primary natural factors that make the region highly susceptible to landslides.

• Statement-II is also correct. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued comprehensive guidelines for managing landslide risk. These guidelines emphasize a shift from a reactive to a proactive approach. Key recommendations include non-structural measures like preparing Landslide Hazard Zonation (LHZ) maps to identify vulnerable areas and developing technology-driven Early Warning Systems (EWS) to provide timely alerts to communities at risk.

• However, Statement-II is not an explanation for Statement-I.

Solution: b)

• However, Statement-II is not an explanation for Statement-I.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Which of the following functions and objectives are associated with the modern role of the International Air Transport Association (IATA)? Acting as a global trade association representing the interests of over 300 member airlines. Developing frameworks for ticketing, cargo handling, and financial settlements. Leading industry discussions on the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Directly financing the construction of airport infrastructure in member countries. Select the correct answer using the code given below: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only (b) 2 and 4 only (c) 1, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4 Correct Solution: a) IATA serves as the primary global trade association for the airline industry, representing over 317 member airlines which account for about 82% of global air traffic. It plays a crucial role in creating and maintaining standards for essential airline operations, including ticketing, cargo logistics, and financial settlement systems like the IATA Clearing House. Furthermore, IATA is at the forefront of addressing modern aviation challenges, leading critical industry initiatives and discussions on sustainability, particularly the transition to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), decarbonization, and energy security, as highlighted by the agenda of its World Air Transport Summit. Statement 4 is incorrect. While IATA advocates for better airport infrastructure and organizes discussions on financing mechanisms for green transitions, it does not directly finance the construction of airports. This function is typically undertaken by national governments, private entities, or development banks like the World Bank or Asian Development Bank. IATA’s role is in advocacy, standard-setting, and policy leadership, not direct infrastructure funding. Incorrect Solution: a) IATA serves as the primary global trade association for the airline industry, representing over 317 member airlines which account for about 82% of global air traffic. It plays a crucial role in creating and maintaining standards for essential airline operations, including ticketing, cargo logistics, and financial settlement systems like the IATA Clearing House. Furthermore, IATA is at the forefront of addressing modern aviation challenges, leading critical industry initiatives and discussions on sustainability, particularly the transition to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), decarbonization, and energy security, as highlighted by the agenda of its World Air Transport Summit. Statement 4 is incorrect. While IATA advocates for better airport infrastructure and organizes discussions on financing mechanisms for green transitions, it does not directly finance the construction of airports. This function is typically undertaken by national governments, private entities, or development banks like the World Bank or Asian Development Bank. IATA’s role is in advocacy, standard-setting, and policy leadership, not direct infrastructure funding.

#### 2. Question

Which of the following functions and objectives are associated with the modern role of the International Air Transport Association (IATA)?

• Acting as a global trade association representing the interests of over 300 member airlines.

• Developing frameworks for ticketing, cargo handling, and financial settlements.

• Leading industry discussions on the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

• Directly financing the construction of airport infrastructure in member countries.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

• (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

• (b) 2 and 4 only

• (c) 1, 3 and 4 only

• (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Solution: a)

• IATA serves as the primary global trade association for the airline industry, representing over 317 member airlines which account for about 82% of global air traffic. It plays a crucial role in creating and maintaining standards for essential airline operations, including ticketing, cargo logistics, and financial settlement systems like the IATA Clearing House.

• Furthermore, IATA is at the forefront of addressing modern aviation challenges, leading critical industry initiatives and discussions on sustainability, particularly the transition to Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), decarbonization, and energy security, as highlighted by the agenda of its World Air Transport Summit.

• Statement 4 is incorrect. While IATA advocates for better airport infrastructure and organizes discussions on financing mechanisms for green transitions, it does not directly finance the construction of airports. This function is typically undertaken by national governments, private entities, or development banks like the World Bank or Asian Development Bank. IATA’s role is in advocacy, standard-setting, and policy leadership, not direct infrastructure funding.

Solution: a)

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question With reference to the Palamau Tiger Reserve (PTR), consider the following statements: It holds the distinction of being the site of the world’s first pugmark-based tiger census. The dominant forest type in the reserve is Northern Tropical Wet Evergreen. It is the only designated tiger reserve in the state of Jharkhand. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: b) Statement 1 is correct. Palamau Tiger Reserve has a unique place in the history of wildlife conservation in India. It was the site of the world’s first formal tiger census conducted using pugmark tracking in 1932, a pioneering effort led by J.W. Nicholson. This event predates Project Tiger and highlights the region’s long-standing importance in tiger conservation history. Statement 2 is incorrect. The vegetation of PTR is characterized by Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous forests. This type of forest is adapted to a climate with a significant dry season. The dominant tree species mentioned is Sal (Shorea robusta), which is a hallmark of dry and moist deciduous forests, not wet evergreen forests. Statement 3 is correct. Palamau Tiger Reserve, notified in 1974 as one of the original nine reserves under Project Tiger, is currently the only designated tiger reserve in the state of Jharkhand. This makes it critically important for the conservation of tigers and their habitat within the state’s geographical boundaries. Incorrect Solution: b) Statement 1 is correct. Palamau Tiger Reserve has a unique place in the history of wildlife conservation in India. It was the site of the world’s first formal tiger census conducted using pugmark tracking in 1932, a pioneering effort led by J.W. Nicholson. This event predates Project Tiger and highlights the region’s long-standing importance in tiger conservation history. Statement 2 is incorrect. The vegetation of PTR is characterized by Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous forests. This type of forest is adapted to a climate with a significant dry season. The dominant tree species mentioned is Sal (Shorea robusta), which is a hallmark of dry and moist deciduous forests, not wet evergreen forests. Statement 3 is correct. Palamau Tiger Reserve, notified in 1974 as one of the original nine reserves under Project Tiger, is currently the only designated tiger reserve in the state of Jharkhand. This makes it critically important for the conservation of tigers and their habitat within the state’s geographical boundaries.

#### 3. Question

With reference to the Palamau Tiger Reserve (PTR), consider the following statements:

• It holds the distinction of being the site of the world’s first pugmark-based tiger census.

• The dominant forest type in the reserve is Northern Tropical Wet Evergreen.

• It is the only designated tiger reserve in the state of Jharkhand.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: b)

• Statement 1 is correct. Palamau Tiger Reserve has a unique place in the history of wildlife conservation in India. It was the site of the world’s first formal tiger census conducted using pugmark tracking in 1932, a pioneering effort led by J.W. Nicholson. This event predates Project Tiger and highlights the region’s long-standing importance in tiger conservation history.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The vegetation of PTR is characterized by Northern Tropical Dry Deciduous forests. This type of forest is adapted to a climate with a significant dry season. The dominant tree species mentioned is Sal (Shorea robusta), which is a hallmark of dry and moist deciduous forests, not wet evergreen forests.

• Statement 3 is correct. Palamau Tiger Reserve, notified in 1974 as one of the original nine reserves under Project Tiger, is currently the only designated tiger reserve in the state of Jharkhand. This makes it critically important for the conservation of tigers and their habitat within the state’s geographical boundaries.

Solution: b)

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements: Statement I: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) primarily focuses its funding on infrastructure development, climate resilience, and poverty alleviation in the Asia-Pacific region. Statement II: The recent withdrawal of an ADB loan for a solar power park in Assam at the request of the Indian government highlights the bank’s adherence to safeguarding against socio-environmental conflicts. 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 but 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: b) Statement I is correct. The ADB’s core mission is to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Asia and the Pacific. Its primary functions clearly align with this, focusing on funding infrastructure projects (transport, energy), promoting climate resilience and clean energy, and financing programs for poverty alleviation and rural development. Statement II is correct. ADB withdrew a $434.25 million loan for a solar park in Assam after protests over tribal land acquisition. The Union Finance Ministry, at the request of the Assam government, asked for this cancellation to avert further conflict and displacement. This action demonstrates that the ADB’s operational framework includes safeguards and responsiveness to social and environmental concerns, often requiring government consensus and community acceptance for its projects to proceed. However, Statement II is an example of the bank’s operational principles in action, not a direct explanation of its entire mission as described in Statement I. Incorrect Solution: b) Statement I is correct. The ADB’s core mission is to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Asia and the Pacific. Its primary functions clearly align with this, focusing on funding infrastructure projects (transport, energy), promoting climate resilience and clean energy, and financing programs for poverty alleviation and rural development. Statement II is correct. ADB withdrew a $434.25 million loan for a solar park in Assam after protests over tribal land acquisition. The Union Finance Ministry, at the request of the Assam government, asked for this cancellation to avert further conflict and displacement. This action demonstrates that the ADB’s operational framework includes safeguards and responsiveness to social and environmental concerns, often requiring government consensus and community acceptance for its projects to proceed. However, Statement II is an example of the bank’s operational principles in action, not a direct explanation of its entire mission as described in Statement I.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements:

Statement I: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) primarily focuses its funding on infrastructure development, climate resilience, and poverty alleviation in the Asia-Pacific region.

Statement II: The recent withdrawal of an ADB loan for a solar power park in Assam at the request of the Indian government highlights the bank’s adherence to safeguarding against socio-environmental conflicts.

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 but 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: b)

• Statement I is correct. The ADB’s core mission is to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth in Asia and the Pacific. Its primary functions clearly align with this, focusing on funding infrastructure projects (transport, energy), promoting climate resilience and clean energy, and financing programs for poverty alleviation and rural development.

• Statement II is correct. ADB withdrew a $434.25 million loan for a solar park in Assam after protests over tribal land acquisition. The Union Finance Ministry, at the request of the Assam government, asked for this cancellation to avert further conflict and displacement. This action demonstrates that the ADB’s operational framework includes safeguards and responsiveness to social and environmental concerns, often requiring government consensus and community acceptance for its projects to proceed.

• However, Statement II is an example of the bank’s operational principles in action, not a direct explanation of its entire mission as described in Statement I.

Solution: b)

• However, Statement II is an example of the bank’s operational principles in action, not a direct explanation of its entire mission as described in Statement I.

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Consider the following statements regarding Reserve Bank of India released new draft rules for gold loans: Statement I: The RBI has proposed capping the Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio for gold loans at 75% and mandating strict valuation norms. Statement II: The primary motivation for these new regulations is the significant year-on-year growth in gold loan portfolios and a corresponding surge in Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) for both banks and NBFCs. 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 but 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: a) Statement I accurately summarizes some of the key proposals in the RBI’s new draft rules for gold loans, namely the 75% LTV cap and the introduction of standardized valuation norms. Statement II provides the core rationale behind these changes. The RBI proposed these changes due to rising gold loan NPAs (surging to over ₹6,800 crore combined for banks and NBFCs) and systemic concerns arising from over 100% YoY growth in these loan portfolios. Therefore, Statement II provides the direct and primary explanation for why the regulatory actions described in Statement I are being taken. Incorrect Solution: a) Statement I accurately summarizes some of the key proposals in the RBI’s new draft rules for gold loans, namely the 75% LTV cap and the introduction of standardized valuation norms. Statement II provides the core rationale behind these changes. The RBI proposed these changes due to rising gold loan NPAs (surging to over ₹6,800 crore combined for banks and NBFCs) and systemic concerns arising from over 100% YoY growth in these loan portfolios. Therefore, Statement II provides the direct and primary explanation for why the regulatory actions described in Statement I are being taken.

#### 5. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Reserve Bank of India released new draft rules for gold loans:

Statement I: The RBI has proposed capping the Loan-to-Value (LTV) ratio for gold loans at 75% and mandating strict valuation norms.

Statement II: The primary motivation for these new regulations is the significant year-on-year growth in gold loan portfolios and a corresponding surge in Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) for both banks and NBFCs.

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 but 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: a)

• Statement I accurately summarizes some of the key proposals in the RBI’s new draft rules for gold loans, namely the 75% LTV cap and the introduction of standardized valuation norms.

• Statement II provides the core rationale behind these changes. The RBI proposed these changes due to rising gold loan NPAs (surging to over ₹6,800 crore combined for banks and NBFCs) and systemic concerns arising from over 100% YoY growth in these loan portfolios.

• Therefore, Statement II provides the direct and primary explanation for why the regulatory actions described in Statement I are being taken.

Solution: a)

• Statement I accurately summarizes some of the key proposals in the RBI’s new draft rules for gold loans, namely the 75% LTV cap and the introduction of standardized valuation norms.

• Therefore, Statement II provides the direct and primary explanation for why the regulatory actions described in Statement I are being taken.

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