UPSC Editorials Quiz : 18 September 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 regarding the Mission Saffron Initiative: It is implemented by NECTAR under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. The project focuses on hydroponic saffron farming to adapt to high-humidity conditions in the Northeast. Which of the above statements is/are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2 (d) Neither 1 nor 2 Correct Solution: A The Mission Saffron Initiative is an important step towards expanding saffron cultivation beyond its traditional region in Jammu and Kashmir. The initiative is spearheaded by the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), which operates under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. This makes Statement 1 correct. However, Statement 2 is incorrect because Mission Saffron does not focus on hydroponic farming. Instead, the project seeks to replicate traditional saffron farming techniques in the Northeast region, adapting them to the local environmental conditions. Saffron cultivation is highly dependent on specific climatic conditions, including temperature and soil composition. Through research and technological interventions, the initiative aims to ensure that saffron farming can thrive in the Northeast, boosting local economies and reducing dependency on imports. Incorrect Solution: A The Mission Saffron Initiative is an important step towards expanding saffron cultivation beyond its traditional region in Jammu and Kashmir. The initiative is spearheaded by the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), which operates under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. This makes Statement 1 correct. However, Statement 2 is incorrect because Mission Saffron does not focus on hydroponic farming. Instead, the project seeks to replicate traditional saffron farming techniques in the Northeast region, adapting them to the local environmental conditions. Saffron cultivation is highly dependent on specific climatic conditions, including temperature and soil composition. Through research and technological interventions, the initiative aims to ensure that saffron farming can thrive in the Northeast, boosting local economies and reducing dependency on imports.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Mission Saffron Initiative:

• It is implemented by NECTAR under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India.

• The project focuses on hydroponic saffron farming to adapt to high-humidity conditions in the Northeast.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) 1 only

• (b) 2 only

• (c) Both 1 and 2

• (d) Neither 1 nor 2

Solution: A

• The Mission Saffron Initiative is an important step towards expanding saffron cultivation beyond its traditional region in Jammu and Kashmir.

• The initiative is spearheaded by the North East Centre for Technology Application and Reach (NECTAR), which operates under the Department of Science and Technology (DST), Government of India. This makes Statement 1 correct.

• However, Statement 2 is incorrect because Mission Saffron does not focus on hydroponic farming. Instead, the project seeks to replicate traditional saffron farming techniques in the Northeast region, adapting them to the local environmental conditions.

Saffron cultivation is highly dependent on specific climatic conditions, including temperature and soil composition. Through research and technological interventions, the initiative aims to ensure that saffron farming can thrive in the Northeast, boosting local economies and reducing dependency on imports.

Solution: A

• The Mission Saffron Initiative is an important step towards expanding saffron cultivation beyond its traditional region in Jammu and Kashmir.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Consider the following statements regarding ASHA workers: ASHAs are selected from their local communities to ensure better communication and trust. They receive a fixed monthly salary under the National Health Mission (NHM). ASHAs play a role in disease surveillance and outbreak prevention. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution: b) Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) are key community health workers under the National Health Mission (NHM), playing a crucial role in last-mile healthcare delivery. Statement 1 is correct: ASHAs are selected from within their local communities to foster better trust and communication with the people they serve. Their familiarity with the region, culture, and language enhances their effectiveness in providing healthcare support, spreading awareness, and mobilizing communities for health initiatives. Statement 2 is incorrect: ASHAs do not receive a fixed salary but are paid through performance-based incentives. These incentives are provided for services such as promoting institutional deliveries, ensuring child immunization, and encouraging family planning measures. Statement 3 is correct: ASHAs play a significant role in disease surveillance and outbreak prevention by identifying early symptoms of infectious diseases, reporting cases to health authorities, and assisting in vaccination drives and community health programs. Their grassroots-level engagement helps in controlling disease spread effectively. Incorrect Solution: b) Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) are key community health workers under the National Health Mission (NHM), playing a crucial role in last-mile healthcare delivery. Statement 1 is correct: ASHAs are selected from within their local communities to foster better trust and communication with the people they serve. Their familiarity with the region, culture, and language enhances their effectiveness in providing healthcare support, spreading awareness, and mobilizing communities for health initiatives. Statement 2 is incorrect: ASHAs do not receive a fixed salary but are paid through performance-based incentives. These incentives are provided for services such as promoting institutional deliveries, ensuring child immunization, and encouraging family planning measures. Statement 3 is correct: ASHAs play a significant role in disease surveillance and outbreak prevention by identifying early symptoms of infectious diseases, reporting cases to health authorities, and assisting in vaccination drives and community health programs. Their grassroots-level engagement helps in controlling disease spread effectively.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following statements regarding ASHA workers:

• ASHAs are selected from their local communities to ensure better communication and trust.

• They receive a fixed monthly salary under the National Health Mission (NHM).

• ASHAs play a role in disease surveillance and outbreak prevention.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• a) Only one

• b) Only two

• c) All three

Solution: b)

Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) are key community health workers under the National Health Mission (NHM), playing a crucial role in last-mile healthcare delivery.

• Statement 1 is correct: ASHAs are selected from within their local communities to foster better trust and communication with the people they serve. Their familiarity with the region, culture, and language enhances their effectiveness in providing healthcare support, spreading awareness, and mobilizing communities for health initiatives.

• Statement 2 is incorrect: ASHAs do not receive a fixed salary but are paid through performance-based incentives. These incentives are provided for services such as promoting institutional deliveries, ensuring child immunization, and encouraging family planning measures.

• Statement 3 is correct: ASHAs play a significant role in disease surveillance and outbreak prevention by identifying early symptoms of infectious diseases, reporting cases to health authorities, and assisting in vaccination drives and community health programs. Their grassroots-level engagement helps in controlling disease spread effectively.

Solution: b)

Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) are key community health workers under the National Health Mission (NHM), playing a crucial role in last-mile healthcare delivery.

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following aspects of the UNESCO Tentative List: Only sites owned by the national government can be included in the list. Countries can modify their Tentative List by adding or removing sites over time. The final decision to include a site on the World Heritage List is taken by UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee. Sites on the Tentative List automatically receive UNESCO funding for conservation. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two c) Only three d) All four Correct Solution: b) The UNESCO Tentative List is an essential step in the process of getting a site inscribed as a World Heritage Site. Each country submits its list of potential sites, which may later be nominated for official recognition. Statement 1 is incorrect: A site does not have to be owned by the national government to be included in the Tentative List. It can be privately owned or managed by local or state governments, as long as it holds cultural or natural significance and meets the eligibility criteria. Statement 2 is correct: Countries can modify their Tentative List over time by adding or removing sites based on new findings, conservation priorities, or changes in site conditions. This flexibility allows them to refine their nominations. Statement 3 is correct: The World Heritage Committee of UNESCO is responsible for evaluating nominations and making the final decision on whether a site gets inscribed as a World Heritage Site. Statement 4 is incorrect: Being on the Tentative List does not guarantee UNESCO funding. While inclusion is a prerequisite for nomination, financial assistance for conservation depends on additional approvals, grant applications, and UNESCO’s World Heritage Fund allocations. Incorrect Solution: b) The UNESCO Tentative List is an essential step in the process of getting a site inscribed as a World Heritage Site. Each country submits its list of potential sites, which may later be nominated for official recognition. Statement 1 is incorrect: A site does not have to be owned by the national government to be included in the Tentative List. It can be privately owned or managed by local or state governments, as long as it holds cultural or natural significance and meets the eligibility criteria. Statement 2 is correct: Countries can modify their Tentative List over time by adding or removing sites based on new findings, conservation priorities, or changes in site conditions. This flexibility allows them to refine their nominations. Statement 3 is correct: The World Heritage Committee of UNESCO is responsible for evaluating nominations and making the final decision on whether a site gets inscribed as a World Heritage Site. Statement 4 is incorrect: Being on the Tentative List does not guarantee UNESCO funding. While inclusion is a prerequisite for nomination, financial assistance for conservation depends on additional approvals, grant applications, and UNESCO’s World Heritage Fund allocations.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following aspects of the UNESCO Tentative List:

• Only sites owned by the national government can be included in the list.

• Countries can modify their Tentative List by adding or removing sites over time.

• The final decision to include a site on the World Heritage List is taken by UNESCO’s World Heritage Committee.

• Sites on the Tentative List automatically receive UNESCO funding for conservation.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• c) Only three

• d) All four

Solution: b)

The UNESCO Tentative List is an essential step in the process of getting a site inscribed as a World Heritage Site. Each country submits its list of potential sites, which may later be nominated for official recognition.

• Statement 1 is incorrect: A site does not have to be owned by the national government to be included in the Tentative List. It can be privately owned or managed by local or state governments, as long as it holds cultural or natural significance and meets the eligibility criteria.

• Statement 2 is correct: Countries can modify their Tentative List over time by adding or removing sites based on new findings, conservation priorities, or changes in site conditions. This flexibility allows them to refine their nominations.

• Statement 3 is correct: The World Heritage Committee of UNESCO is responsible for evaluating nominations and making the final decision on whether a site gets inscribed as a World Heritage Site.

Statement 4 is incorrect: Being on the Tentative List does not guarantee UNESCO funding. While inclusion is a prerequisite for nomination, financial assistance for conservation depends on additional approvals, grant applications, and UNESCO’s World Heritage Fund allocations.

Solution: b)

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements about Chausath Yogini Temples (Multiple States): The temples follow a linear architectural pattern, distinct from other circular Yogini temples. They contain idols of Buddhist deities, indicating their influence from Mahayana Buddhism. These temples were mainly built during the rule of the Chola dynasty in South India. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: d) Chausath Yogini Temples are significant Hindu temples associated with Tantric worship, known for their unique architectural and religious aspects. Statement 1 is incorrect: Unlike most traditional Hindu temples, Chausath Yogini temples follow a circular architectural layout rather than a linear one. The circular design is believed to facilitate tantric rituals and meditation, with the central deity often placed in the middle. Examples include the Chausath Yogini temples at Mitawali (Madhya Pradesh) and Hirapur (Odisha). Statement 2 is incorrect: These temples are dedicated to the 64 Yoginis, who are considered fierce manifestations of the Goddess Shakti in Hinduism. There is no direct connection to Buddhist deities or Mahayana Buddhism, as the Yogini cult is firmly rooted in Tantric Hindu traditions. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Chausath Yogini temples were primarily built between the 9th and 12th centuries during the Kalachuri and Chandela dynasties, mostly in North and Central India. The Chola dynasty, which ruled in South India, did not construct these temples. Incorrect Solution: d) Chausath Yogini Temples are significant Hindu temples associated with Tantric worship, known for their unique architectural and religious aspects. Statement 1 is incorrect: Unlike most traditional Hindu temples, Chausath Yogini temples follow a circular architectural layout rather than a linear one. The circular design is believed to facilitate tantric rituals and meditation, with the central deity often placed in the middle. Examples include the Chausath Yogini temples at Mitawali (Madhya Pradesh) and Hirapur (Odisha). Statement 2 is incorrect: These temples are dedicated to the 64 Yoginis, who are considered fierce manifestations of the Goddess Shakti in Hinduism. There is no direct connection to Buddhist deities or Mahayana Buddhism, as the Yogini cult is firmly rooted in Tantric Hindu traditions. Statement 3 is incorrect: The Chausath Yogini temples were primarily built between the 9th and 12th centuries during the Kalachuri and Chandela dynasties, mostly in North and Central India. The Chola dynasty, which ruled in South India, did not construct these temples.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements about Chausath Yogini Temples (Multiple States):

• The temples follow a linear architectural pattern, distinct from other circular Yogini temples.

• They contain idols of Buddhist deities, indicating their influence from Mahayana Buddhism.

• These temples were mainly built during the rule of the Chola dynasty in South India.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: d)

Chausath Yogini Temples are significant Hindu temples associated with Tantric worship, known for their unique architectural and religious aspects.

• Statement 1 is incorrect: Unlike most traditional Hindu temples, Chausath Yogini temples follow a circular architectural layout rather than a linear one. The circular design is believed to facilitate tantric rituals and meditation, with the central deity often placed in the middle. Examples include the Chausath Yogini temples at Mitawali (Madhya Pradesh) and Hirapur (Odisha).

• Statement 2 is incorrect: These temples are dedicated to the 64 Yoginis, who are considered fierce manifestations of the Goddess Shakti in Hinduism. There is no direct connection to Buddhist deities or Mahayana Buddhism, as the Yogini cult is firmly rooted in Tantric Hindu traditions.

Statement 3 is incorrect: The Chausath Yogini temples were primarily built between the 9th and 12th centuries during the Kalachuri and Chandela dynasties, mostly in North and Central India. The Chola dynasty, which ruled in South India, did not construct these temples.

Solution: d)

Chausath Yogini Temples are significant Hindu temples associated with Tantric worship, known for their unique architectural and religious aspects.

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Consider the following statements regarding Gupta Temples (Northern India): They represent the Dravidian style of architecture, characterized by large temple complexes. These temples are known for their intricate carvings, shikharas, and artistic excellence. They were primarily built using granite and sandstone, unlike other structures of the time. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution: a) The Gupta temples are some of the earliest surviving examples of structured temple architecture in India, marking a transition from rock-cut caves to free-standing temples. Statement 1 is incorrect: Gupta temples primarily followed the Nagara style of architecture, which is characterized by curvilinear shikharas (towers), square sanctums (garbhagriha), and axial alignment. The Dravidian style, on the other hand, belongs to South India and is associated with large temple complexes, towering gopurams, and intricate pillared halls, which were not typical of Gupta temples. Statement 2 is correct: Gupta temples are renowned for their intricate carvings, shikharas, and artistic excellence. This period is often referred to as the “Golden Age” of Indian art and architecture, as temples like Dashavatara Temple (Deogarh) and Parvati Temple (Nachna Kuthara) showcase highly refined sculptures and elaborate relief work. Statement 3 is incorrect: Unlike later temple constructions, Gupta temples were primarily built using brick and stone. While some sandstone was used, granite was not the primary material, as it was more commonly associated with Dravidian temple architecture in the South. Incorrect Solution: a) The Gupta temples are some of the earliest surviving examples of structured temple architecture in India, marking a transition from rock-cut caves to free-standing temples. Statement 1 is incorrect: Gupta temples primarily followed the Nagara style of architecture, which is characterized by curvilinear shikharas (towers), square sanctums (garbhagriha), and axial alignment. The Dravidian style, on the other hand, belongs to South India and is associated with large temple complexes, towering gopurams, and intricate pillared halls, which were not typical of Gupta temples. Statement 2 is correct: Gupta temples are renowned for their intricate carvings, shikharas, and artistic excellence. This period is often referred to as the “Golden Age” of Indian art and architecture, as temples like Dashavatara Temple (Deogarh) and Parvati Temple (Nachna Kuthara) showcase highly refined sculptures and elaborate relief work. Statement 3 is incorrect: Unlike later temple constructions, Gupta temples were primarily built using brick and stone. While some sandstone was used, granite was not the primary material, as it was more commonly associated with Dravidian temple architecture in the South.

#### 5. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Gupta Temples (Northern India):

• They represent the Dravidian style of architecture, characterized by large temple complexes.

• These temples are known for their intricate carvings, shikharas, and artistic excellence.

• They were primarily built using granite and sandstone, unlike other structures of the time.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• a) Only one

• b) Only two

• c) All three

Solution: a)

The Gupta temples are some of the earliest surviving examples of structured temple architecture in India, marking a transition from rock-cut caves to free-standing temples.

• Statement 1 is incorrect: Gupta temples primarily followed the Nagara style of architecture, which is characterized by curvilinear shikharas (towers), square sanctums (garbhagriha), and axial alignment. The Dravidian style, on the other hand, belongs to South India and is associated with large temple complexes, towering gopurams, and intricate pillared halls, which were not typical of Gupta temples.

• Statement 2 is correct: Gupta temples are renowned for their intricate carvings, shikharas, and artistic excellence. This period is often referred to as the “Golden Age” of Indian art and architecture, as temples like Dashavatara Temple (Deogarh) and Parvati Temple (Nachna Kuthara) showcase highly refined sculptures and elaborate relief work.

• Statement 3 is incorrect: Unlike later temple constructions, Gupta temples were primarily built using brick and stone. While some sandstone was used, granite was not the primary material, as it was more commonly associated with Dravidian temple architecture in the South.

Solution: a)

The Gupta temples are some of the earliest surviving examples of structured temple architecture in India, marking a transition from rock-cut caves to free-standing temples.

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