UPSC Editorials Quiz : 26 January 2026

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 Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) compared to Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI)? a) LPAI strains do not infect humans, while HPAI strains frequently cause human pandemics. b) LPAI viruses cause more damage to poultry farms than HPAI viruses. c) HPAI spreads more easily among humans compared to LPAI. d) HPAI strains cause severe disease in birds and have a higher mortality rate than LPAI strains. Correct Solution: D Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) are classified based on the severity of disease they cause in birds, particularly poultry, rather than on their impact on humans. HPAI strains, most commonly associated with certain subtypes like H5 and H7, lead to severe systemic illness in birds, rapid spread within flocks, and extremely high mortality rates, often approaching 90–100% if unchecked. These infections can devastate poultry populations and require drastic control measures such as culling. In contrast, LPAI strains usually cause mild or even asymptomatic infections in birds, typically limited to respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms, and may circulate unnoticed. Human infection is rare for both, and neither category is defined by human transmissibility or pandemic potential. Incorrect Solution: D Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) are classified based on the severity of disease they cause in birds, particularly poultry, rather than on their impact on humans. HPAI strains, most commonly associated with certain subtypes like H5 and H7, lead to severe systemic illness in birds, rapid spread within flocks, and extremely high mortality rates, often approaching 90–100% if unchecked. These infections can devastate poultry populations and require drastic control measures such as culling. In contrast, LPAI strains usually cause mild or even asymptomatic infections in birds, typically limited to respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms, and may circulate unnoticed. Human infection is rare for both, and neither category is defined by human transmissibility or pandemic potential.

#### 1. Question

Which of the following statements best describes Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) compared to Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI)?

• a) LPAI strains do not infect humans, while HPAI strains frequently cause human pandemics.

• b) LPAI viruses cause more damage to poultry farms than HPAI viruses.

• c) HPAI spreads more easily among humans compared to LPAI.

• d) HPAI strains cause severe disease in birds and have a higher mortality rate than LPAI strains.

Solution: D

• Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (HPAI) and Low Pathogenic Avian Influenza (LPAI) are classified based on the severity of disease they cause in birds, particularly poultry, rather than on their impact on humans.

• HPAI strains, most commonly associated with certain subtypes like H5 and H7, lead to severe systemic illness in birds, rapid spread within flocks, and extremely high mortality rates, often approaching 90–100% if unchecked.

• These infections can devastate poultry populations and require drastic control measures such as culling. In contrast, LPAI strains usually cause mild or even asymptomatic infections in birds, typically limited to respiratory or gastrointestinal symptoms, and may circulate unnoticed.

• Human infection is rare for both, and neither category is defined by human transmissibility or pandemic potential.

Solution: D

• Human infection is rare for both, and neither category is defined by human transmissibility or pandemic potential.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Hangul Deer (Kashmir Stag): The Hangul is a subspecies of the Asiatic Red Deer and is endemic to the Western Ghats in India. It is listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List. The Dachigam National Park is the known habitat of Hangul Deer in India. 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: The Hangul is a subspecies of the Central Asian Red Deer (Cervus hanglu hanglu) and is endemic to Kashmir, not the Western Ghats. Statement 2 is correct: The Hangul is listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, poaching, and declining population. Statement 3 is correct: While some stray populations have been reported, the Dachigam National Park (Jammu & Kashmir) remains the major habitat of Hangul Deer in India. What is Hangul Deer? A subspecies of the Central Asian red deer (Cervus hanglu hanglu), endemic to Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh. The state animal of Jammu and Kashmir and the only surviving Asiatic subspecies of the Red Deer family. Habitat & Protected Areas: Found in dense riverine forests, valleys, and mountainous regions of Jammu & Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh. Key Protected Areas: Dachigam National Park (J&K) – The primary habitat of Hangul deer. Tral Wildlife Sanctuary (J&K) – Offers additional protection. IUCN Status: Listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List due to rapid population decline. Population has fallen from 3,000-5,000 in the 1940s to just 289 in 2023. Key Features of Hangul Deer Large Antlers: Males possess impressive multi-tined antlers with 11-16 points. Seasonal Mating & Birth Patterns: Mating from October to December, birthing in April-May. Herbivorous Diet: Feeds on grasses, leaves, and forest vegetation. Reasons Behind Population Decline: Habitat Destruction: Deforestation and land encroachment have reduced their natural habitat. Overgrazing: Competition with livestock reduces available food resources. Poaching & Illegal Hunting: Hangul is targeted for its antlers and meat. Human Disturbance: Grazing, herder movements, and tourism disrupt mating and birthing cycles, increasing stress levels. Climate Change: Affects food availability and habitat conditions, worsening survival rates. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect: The Hangul is a subspecies of the Central Asian Red Deer (Cervus hanglu hanglu) and is endemic to Kashmir, not the Western Ghats. Statement 2 is correct: The Hangul is listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, poaching, and declining population. Statement 3 is correct: While some stray populations have been reported, the Dachigam National Park (Jammu & Kashmir) remains the major habitat of Hangul Deer in India. What is Hangul Deer? A subspecies of the Central Asian red deer (Cervus hanglu hanglu), endemic to Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh. The state animal of Jammu and Kashmir and the only surviving Asiatic subspecies of the Red Deer family. Habitat & Protected Areas: Found in dense riverine forests, valleys, and mountainous regions of Jammu & Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh. Key Protected Areas: Dachigam National Park (J&K) – The primary habitat of Hangul deer. Tral Wildlife Sanctuary (J&K) – Offers additional protection. IUCN Status: Listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List due to rapid population decline. Population has fallen from 3,000-5,000 in the 1940s to just 289 in 2023. Key Features of Hangul Deer Large Antlers: Males possess impressive multi-tined antlers with 11-16 points. Seasonal Mating & Birth Patterns: Mating from October to December, birthing in April-May. Herbivorous Diet: Feeds on grasses, leaves, and forest vegetation. Reasons Behind Population Decline: Habitat Destruction: Deforestation and land encroachment have reduced their natural habitat. Overgrazing: Competition with livestock reduces available food resources. Poaching & Illegal Hunting: Hangul is targeted for its antlers and meat. Human Disturbance: Grazing, herder movements, and tourism disrupt mating and birthing cycles, increasing stress levels. Climate Change: Affects food availability and habitat conditions, worsening survival rates.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Hangul Deer (Kashmir Stag):

• The Hangul is a subspecies of the Asiatic Red Deer and is endemic to the Western Ghats in India.

• It is listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List.

• The Dachigam National Park is the known habitat of Hangul Deer in India.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Hangul is a subspecies of the Central Asian Red Deer (Cervus hanglu hanglu) and is endemic to Kashmir, not the Western Ghats.

Statement 2 is correct: The Hangul is listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, poaching, and declining population.

Statement 3 is correct: While some stray populations have been reported, the Dachigam National Park (Jammu & Kashmir) remains the major habitat of Hangul Deer in India.

• What is Hangul Deer?

• A subspecies of the Central Asian red deer (Cervus hanglu hanglu), endemic to Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh. The state animal of Jammu and Kashmir and the only surviving Asiatic subspecies of the Red Deer family.

• A subspecies of the Central Asian red deer (Cervus hanglu hanglu), endemic to Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh.

• The state animal of Jammu and Kashmir and the only surviving Asiatic subspecies of the Red Deer family.

• Habitat & Protected Areas:

• Found in dense riverine forests, valleys, and mountainous regions of Jammu & Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh.

• Key Protected Areas: Dachigam National Park (J&K) – The primary habitat of Hangul deer. Tral Wildlife Sanctuary (J&K) – Offers additional protection.

• Dachigam National Park (J&K) – The primary habitat of Hangul deer.

• Tral Wildlife Sanctuary (J&K) – Offers additional protection.

• IUCN Status:

• Listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List due to rapid population decline. Population has fallen from 3,000-5,000 in the 1940s to just 289 in 2023.

• Listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List due to rapid population decline.

• Population has fallen from 3,000-5,000 in the 1940s to just 289 in 2023.

• Key Features of Hangul Deer Large Antlers: Males possess impressive multi-tined antlers with 11-16 points. Seasonal Mating & Birth Patterns: Mating from October to December, birthing in April-May. Herbivorous Diet: Feeds on grasses, leaves, and forest vegetation.

• Large Antlers: Males possess impressive multi-tined antlers with 11-16 points.

• Seasonal Mating & Birth Patterns: Mating from October to December, birthing in April-May.

• Herbivorous Diet: Feeds on grasses, leaves, and forest vegetation.

• Reasons Behind Population Decline:

• Habitat Destruction: Deforestation and land encroachment have reduced their natural habitat. Overgrazing: Competition with livestock reduces available food resources. Poaching & Illegal Hunting: Hangul is targeted for its antlers and meat. Human Disturbance: Grazing, herder movements, and tourism disrupt mating and birthing cycles, increasing stress levels. Climate Change: Affects food availability and habitat conditions, worsening survival rates.

• Habitat Destruction: Deforestation and land encroachment have reduced their natural habitat.

• Overgrazing: Competition with livestock reduces available food resources.

• Poaching & Illegal Hunting: Hangul is targeted for its antlers and meat.

• Human Disturbance: Grazing, herder movements, and tourism disrupt mating and birthing cycles, increasing stress levels.

• Climate Change: Affects food availability and habitat conditions, worsening survival rates.

Solution: B

Statement 1 is incorrect: The Hangul is a subspecies of the Central Asian Red Deer (Cervus hanglu hanglu) and is endemic to Kashmir, not the Western Ghats.

Statement 2 is correct: The Hangul is listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List due to habitat loss, poaching, and declining population.

Statement 3 is correct: While some stray populations have been reported, the Dachigam National Park (Jammu & Kashmir) remains the major habitat of Hangul Deer in India.

• What is Hangul Deer?

• A subspecies of the Central Asian red deer (Cervus hanglu hanglu), endemic to Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh.

• The state animal of Jammu and Kashmir and the only surviving Asiatic subspecies of the Red Deer family.

• Habitat & Protected Areas:

• Found in dense riverine forests, valleys, and mountainous regions of Jammu & Kashmir and northern Himachal Pradesh.

• Key Protected Areas: Dachigam National Park (J&K) – The primary habitat of Hangul deer. Tral Wildlife Sanctuary (J&K) – Offers additional protection.

• Dachigam National Park (J&K) – The primary habitat of Hangul deer.

• Tral Wildlife Sanctuary (J&K) – Offers additional protection.

• IUCN Status:

• Listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List due to rapid population decline. Population has fallen from 3,000-5,000 in the 1940s to just 289 in 2023.

• Listed as Critically Endangered (CR) on the IUCN Red List due to rapid population decline.

• Population has fallen from 3,000-5,000 in the 1940s to just 289 in 2023.

• Large Antlers: Males possess impressive multi-tined antlers with 11-16 points.

• Seasonal Mating & Birth Patterns: Mating from October to December, birthing in April-May.

• Herbivorous Diet: Feeds on grasses, leaves, and forest vegetation.

• Reasons Behind Population Decline:

• Habitat Destruction: Deforestation and land encroachment have reduced their natural habitat.

• Overgrazing: Competition with livestock reduces available food resources.

• Poaching & Illegal Hunting: Hangul is targeted for its antlers and meat.

• Human Disturbance: Grazing, herder movements, and tourism disrupt mating and birthing cycles, increasing stress levels.

• Climate Change: Affects food availability and habitat conditions, worsening survival rates.

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following potential impacts of Reciprocal Tariffs on India’s economy: Decline in India’s trade surplus with the U.S. Greater foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into India’s manufacturing sector. Strengthening of WTO-led trade dispute resolution mechanisms. Increase in the cost of Indian exports to the U.S. How many of the above impacts are likely to occur due to Reciprocal Tariffs? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Solution: C Statement 1 is correct: India’s trade surplus with the U.S. is likely to decline as the U.S. increases tariffs on Indian goods, reducing exports. Statement 2 is correct: To avoid high tariffs, U.S. companies may set up local manufacturing units in India, boosting FDI in sectors like defense, energy, and technology. Statement 3 is incorrect: Reciprocal Tariffs often bypass WTO mechanisms and lead to unilateral trade actions, weakening WTO dispute resolution processes. Statement 4 is correct: Higher tariffs will increase costs for Indian exporters, making goods like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles less competitive in the U.S. market. Incorrect Solution: C Statement 1 is correct: India’s trade surplus with the U.S. is likely to decline as the U.S. increases tariffs on Indian goods, reducing exports. Statement 2 is correct: To avoid high tariffs, U.S. companies may set up local manufacturing units in India, boosting FDI in sectors like defense, energy, and technology. Statement 3 is incorrect: Reciprocal Tariffs often bypass WTO mechanisms and lead to unilateral trade actions, weakening WTO dispute resolution processes. Statement 4 is correct: Higher tariffs will increase costs for Indian exporters, making goods like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles less competitive in the U.S. market.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following potential impacts of Reciprocal Tariffs on India’s economy:

• Decline in India’s trade surplus with the U.S.

• Greater foreign direct investment (FDI) inflows into India’s manufacturing sector.

• Strengthening of WTO-led trade dispute resolution mechanisms.

• Increase in the cost of Indian exports to the U.S.

How many of the above impacts are likely to occur due to Reciprocal Tariffs?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Solution: C

Statement 1 is correct: India’s trade surplus with the U.S. is likely to decline as the U.S. increases tariffs on Indian goods, reducing exports.

Statement 2 is correct: To avoid high tariffs, U.S. companies may set up local manufacturing units in India, boosting FDI in sectors like defense, energy, and technology.

Statement 3 is incorrect: Reciprocal Tariffs often bypass WTO mechanisms and lead to unilateral trade actions, weakening WTO dispute resolution processes.

Statement 4 is correct: Higher tariffs will increase costs for Indian exporters, making goods like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles less competitive in the U.S. market.

Solution: C

Statement 1 is correct: India’s trade surplus with the U.S. is likely to decline as the U.S. increases tariffs on Indian goods, reducing exports.

Statement 2 is correct: To avoid high tariffs, U.S. companies may set up local manufacturing units in India, boosting FDI in sectors like defense, energy, and technology.

Statement 3 is incorrect: Reciprocal Tariffs often bypass WTO mechanisms and lead to unilateral trade actions, weakening WTO dispute resolution processes.

Statement 4 is correct: Higher tariffs will increase costs for Indian exporters, making goods like textiles, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles less competitive in the U.S. market.

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question What is the primary objective of Exercise Dharma Guardian? (a) Conducting joint space and cyber warfare training between India and Japan (b) Conducting joint military counter-terrorism operations under UN guidelines (c) Establishing a permanent military base in Japan for Indian forces (d) Strengthening maritime security cooperation between India and Japan Correct Solution: B Exercise Dharma Guardian is a bilateral military exercise between India and Japan, focusing on counter-terrorism and urban warfare. Option (a) is incorrect: The exercise does not include space and cyber warfare training. Option (c) is incorrect: India does not have a military base in Japan. Option (d) is incorrect: It does not focus on maritime security; Exercise JIMEX covers naval cooperation. About Exercise Dharma Guardian: Nations Involved: India and Japan Host Place: Mount Fuji, Japan Frequency: Biennial (every two years) Aim & Objectives: Enhance Military Cooperation: Strengthen bilateral defense ties and improve military-to-military relations. Urban Warfare & Counter-Terrorism Training: Conduct joint urban combat and anti-terrorism operations under UN guidelines. Interoperability Between Forces: Develop tactical synergy and joint planning between the two armies. Strategic Partnership Growth: Build on the momentum of high-level defense exchanges between India and Japan. Incorrect Solution: B Exercise Dharma Guardian is a bilateral military exercise between India and Japan, focusing on counter-terrorism and urban warfare. Option (a) is incorrect: The exercise does not include space and cyber warfare training. Option (c) is incorrect: India does not have a military base in Japan. Option (d) is incorrect: It does not focus on maritime security; Exercise JIMEX covers naval cooperation. About Exercise Dharma Guardian: Nations Involved: India and Japan Host Place: Mount Fuji, Japan Frequency: Biennial (every two years) Aim & Objectives: Enhance Military Cooperation: Strengthen bilateral defense ties and improve military-to-military relations. Urban Warfare & Counter-Terrorism Training: Conduct joint urban combat and anti-terrorism operations under UN guidelines. Interoperability Between Forces: Develop tactical synergy and joint planning between the two armies. Strategic Partnership Growth: Build on the momentum of high-level defense exchanges between India and Japan.

#### 4. Question

What is the primary objective of Exercise Dharma Guardian?

• (a) Conducting joint space and cyber warfare training between India and Japan

• (b) Conducting joint military counter-terrorism operations under UN guidelines

• (c) Establishing a permanent military base in Japan for Indian forces

• (d) Strengthening maritime security cooperation between India and Japan

Solution: B

Exercise Dharma Guardian is a bilateral military exercise between India and Japan, focusing on counter-terrorism and urban warfare.

Option (a) is incorrect: The exercise does not include space and cyber warfare training.

Option (c) is incorrect: India does not have a military base in Japan.

Option (d) is incorrect: It does not focus on maritime security; Exercise JIMEX covers naval cooperation.

About Exercise Dharma Guardian:

• Nations Involved: India and Japan

• Host Place: Mount Fuji, Japan

• Frequency: Biennial (every two years)

• Aim & Objectives: Enhance Military Cooperation: Strengthen bilateral defense ties and improve military-to-military relations. Urban Warfare & Counter-Terrorism Training: Conduct joint urban combat and anti-terrorism operations under UN guidelines. Interoperability Between Forces: Develop tactical synergy and joint planning between the two armies. Strategic Partnership Growth: Build on the momentum of high-level defense exchanges between India and Japan.

• Enhance Military Cooperation: Strengthen bilateral defense ties and improve military-to-military relations.

• Urban Warfare & Counter-Terrorism Training: Conduct joint urban combat and anti-terrorism operations under UN guidelines.

• Interoperability Between Forces: Develop tactical synergy and joint planning between the two armies.

• Strategic Partnership Growth: Build on the momentum of high-level defense exchanges between India and Japan.

Solution: B

Exercise Dharma Guardian is a bilateral military exercise between India and Japan, focusing on counter-terrorism and urban warfare.

Option (a) is incorrect: The exercise does not include space and cyber warfare training.

Option (c) is incorrect: India does not have a military base in Japan.

Option (d) is incorrect: It does not focus on maritime security; Exercise JIMEX covers naval cooperation.

About Exercise Dharma Guardian:

• Nations Involved: India and Japan

• Host Place: Mount Fuji, Japan

• Frequency: Biennial (every two years)

• Enhance Military Cooperation: Strengthen bilateral defense ties and improve military-to-military relations.

• Urban Warfare & Counter-Terrorism Training: Conduct joint urban combat and anti-terrorism operations under UN guidelines.

• Interoperability Between Forces: Develop tactical synergy and joint planning between the two armies.

• Strategic Partnership Growth: Build on the momentum of high-level defense exchanges between India and Japan.

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Which of the following statements regarding the appointment process of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is correct as per the Election Commission (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Act, 2023? a) The CEC is appointed by the President based on the recommendation of a Selection Committee consisting of the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and Chief Justice of India. b) The CEC is appointed by the President at his discretion without any consultation. c) The CEC is directly elected by Parliament through a two-thirds majority in both Houses. d) The CEC is appointed by the President based on the recommendation of a Selection Committee consisting of the Prime Minister, a Union Cabinet Minister, and the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha. Correct Solution: D The Election Commission (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Act, 2023 fundamentally altered the institutional mechanism for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners in India. Under this Act, the President makes the appointment, but not in an unfettered or discretionary manner. The law clearly mandates a Selection Committee, which consists of the Prime Minister as the Chairperson, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (or the leader of the largest opposition party if there is no recognized LoP), and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister. Importantly, the Chief Justice of India is not part of this committee, which marks a departure from the interim arrangement suggested by the Supreme Court in earlier judgments. Options (a), (b), and (c) therefore do not reflect the statutory position. Option (d) accurately captures the composition of the Selection Committee and the role of the President, making it the correct answer in line with the 2023 Act and current constitutional practice. Incorrect Solution: D The Election Commission (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Act, 2023 fundamentally altered the institutional mechanism for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners in India. Under this Act, the President makes the appointment, but not in an unfettered or discretionary manner. The law clearly mandates a Selection Committee, which consists of the Prime Minister as the Chairperson, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (or the leader of the largest opposition party if there is no recognized LoP), and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister. Importantly, the Chief Justice of India is not part of this committee, which marks a departure from the interim arrangement suggested by the Supreme Court in earlier judgments. Options (a), (b), and (c) therefore do not reflect the statutory position. Option (d) accurately captures the composition of the Selection Committee and the role of the President, making it the correct answer in line with the 2023 Act and current constitutional practice.

#### 5. Question

Which of the following statements regarding the appointment process of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) is correct as per the Election Commission (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Act, 2023?

• a) The CEC is appointed by the President based on the recommendation of a Selection Committee consisting of the Prime Minister, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha, and Chief Justice of India.

• b) The CEC is appointed by the President at his discretion without any consultation.

• c) The CEC is directly elected by Parliament through a two-thirds majority in both Houses.

• d) The CEC is appointed by the President based on the recommendation of a Selection Committee consisting of the Prime Minister, a Union Cabinet Minister, and the Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha.

Solution: D

• The Election Commission (Appointment, Conditions of Service, and Term of Office) Act, 2023 fundamentally altered the institutional mechanism for appointing the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioners in India. Under this Act, the President makes the appointment, but not in an unfettered or discretionary manner.

• The law clearly mandates a Selection Committee, which consists of the Prime Minister as the Chairperson, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha (or the leader of the largest opposition party if there is no recognized LoP), and a Union Cabinet Minister nominated by the Prime Minister.

• Importantly, the Chief Justice of India is not part of this committee, which marks a departure from the interim arrangement suggested by the Supreme Court in earlier judgments.

• Options (a), (b), and (c) therefore do not reflect the statutory position.

• Option (d) accurately captures the composition of the Selection Committee and the role of the President, making it the correct answer in line with the 2023 Act and current constitutional practice.

Solution: D

• Importantly, the Chief Justice of India is not part of this committee, which marks a departure from the interim arrangement suggested by the Supreme Court in earlier judgments.

• Options (a), (b), and (c) therefore do not reflect the statutory position.

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