UPSC Editorials Quiz : 26 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 about Agrivoltaic farming: Agrivoltaic farming requires solar panels to be installed very close to the ground to maximize energy output. Shading from solar panels reduces water loss by decreasing evaporation from the soil. Agrivoltaic farming is only possible in arid and semi-arid regions due to the need for high sunlight exposure. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Statement 2 is correct. Shading from solar panels in agrivoltaic systems reduces evaporation, conserving soil moisture and reducing water needs. Statement 1 is incorrect as agrivoltaic systems require panels to be elevated 2-3 meters to allow for crop growth underneath, not close to the ground. Statement 3 is incorrect because agrivoltaics can be implemented in a variety of climates, not just arid regions. About Agrivoltaic Farming: Definition: Agrivoltaic farming is the simultaneous use of land for agriculture and solar energy generation, allowing crops to grow beneath solar panels. Agrivoltaic farming working: Elevated panels: Solar panels are raised 2-3 meters, providing space for crops to grow beneath with adequate light and air. Angle and Spacing: Panels are angled and spaced to optimize sunlight for both solar energy and crop growth. Shade and Protection: Panels offer shade, reducing heat stress and protecting crops from harsh weather. Water conservation: Shading lowers evaporation, conserving soil moisture and reducing water needs. Greenhouse integration: Panels on greenhouse roofs allow light/rain for crops while generating energy. Dual harvesting: Utilizes land for both solar power and agriculture, maximizing energy and food production. Significance of Agrivoltaic Farming: Enhanced Land Use: Maximizes land efficiency by combining agriculture and solar energy production on the same land. Climate resilience: Provides shade to crops, reducing heat stress and water loss, and protecting from extreme weather. Renewable energy generation: Contributes to solar power expansion, supporting climate goals and energy needs. Increased food security: Supports sustainable food production for a growing population without needing additional land. Economic benefits: Enables farmers to diversify income through both crop production and solar energy revenue. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 2 is correct. Shading from solar panels in agrivoltaic systems reduces evaporation, conserving soil moisture and reducing water needs. Statement 1 is incorrect as agrivoltaic systems require panels to be elevated 2-3 meters to allow for crop growth underneath, not close to the ground. Statement 3 is incorrect because agrivoltaics can be implemented in a variety of climates, not just arid regions. About Agrivoltaic Farming: Definition: Agrivoltaic farming is the simultaneous use of land for agriculture and solar energy generation, allowing crops to grow beneath solar panels. Agrivoltaic farming working: Elevated panels: Solar panels are raised 2-3 meters, providing space for crops to grow beneath with adequate light and air. Angle and Spacing: Panels are angled and spaced to optimize sunlight for both solar energy and crop growth. Shade and Protection: Panels offer shade, reducing heat stress and protecting crops from harsh weather. Water conservation: Shading lowers evaporation, conserving soil moisture and reducing water needs. Greenhouse integration: Panels on greenhouse roofs allow light/rain for crops while generating energy. Dual harvesting: Utilizes land for both solar power and agriculture, maximizing energy and food production. Significance of Agrivoltaic Farming: Enhanced Land Use: Maximizes land efficiency by combining agriculture and solar energy production on the same land. Climate resilience: Provides shade to crops, reducing heat stress and water loss, and protecting from extreme weather. Renewable energy generation: Contributes to solar power expansion, supporting climate goals and energy needs. Increased food security: Supports sustainable food production for a growing population without needing additional land. Economic benefits: Enables farmers to diversify income through both crop production and solar energy revenue.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements about Agrivoltaic farming:

• Agrivoltaic farming requires solar panels to be installed very close to the ground to maximize energy output.

• Shading from solar panels reduces water loss by decreasing evaporation from the soil.

• Agrivoltaic farming is only possible in arid and semi-arid regions due to the need for high sunlight exposure.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

Statement 2 is correct. Shading from solar panels in agrivoltaic systems reduces evaporation, conserving soil moisture and reducing water needs.

Statement 1 is incorrect as agrivoltaic systems require panels to be elevated 2-3 meters to allow for crop growth underneath, not close to the ground.

Statement 3 is incorrect because agrivoltaics can be implemented in a variety of climates, not just arid regions.

About Agrivoltaic Farming:

• Definition: Agrivoltaic farming is the simultaneous use of land for agriculture and solar energy generation, allowing crops to grow beneath solar panels.

Agrivoltaic farming working:

• Elevated panels: Solar panels are raised 2-3 meters, providing space for crops to grow beneath with adequate light and air.

• Angle and Spacing: Panels are angled and spaced to optimize sunlight for both solar energy and crop growth.

• Shade and Protection: Panels offer shade, reducing heat stress and protecting crops from harsh weather.

• Water conservation: Shading lowers evaporation, conserving soil moisture and reducing water needs.

• Greenhouse integration: Panels on greenhouse roofs allow light/rain for crops while generating energy.

• Dual harvesting: Utilizes land for both solar power and agriculture, maximizing energy and food production.

Significance of Agrivoltaic Farming:

• Enhanced Land Use: Maximizes land efficiency by combining agriculture and solar energy production on the same land.

• Climate resilience: Provides shade to crops, reducing heat stress and water loss, and protecting from extreme weather.

• Renewable energy generation: Contributes to solar power expansion, supporting climate goals and energy needs.

• Increased food security: Supports sustainable food production for a growing population without needing additional land.

• Economic benefits: Enables farmers to diversify income through both crop production and solar energy revenue.

Solution: A

Statement 2 is correct. Shading from solar panels in agrivoltaic systems reduces evaporation, conserving soil moisture and reducing water needs.

Statement 1 is incorrect as agrivoltaic systems require panels to be elevated 2-3 meters to allow for crop growth underneath, not close to the ground.

Statement 3 is incorrect because agrivoltaics can be implemented in a variety of climates, not just arid regions.

About Agrivoltaic Farming:

• Definition: Agrivoltaic farming is the simultaneous use of land for agriculture and solar energy generation, allowing crops to grow beneath solar panels.

Agrivoltaic farming working:

• Elevated panels: Solar panels are raised 2-3 meters, providing space for crops to grow beneath with adequate light and air.

• Angle and Spacing: Panels are angled and spaced to optimize sunlight for both solar energy and crop growth.

• Shade and Protection: Panels offer shade, reducing heat stress and protecting crops from harsh weather.

• Water conservation: Shading lowers evaporation, conserving soil moisture and reducing water needs.

• Greenhouse integration: Panels on greenhouse roofs allow light/rain for crops while generating energy.

• Dual harvesting: Utilizes land for both solar power and agriculture, maximizing energy and food production.

Significance of Agrivoltaic Farming:

• Enhanced Land Use: Maximizes land efficiency by combining agriculture and solar energy production on the same land.

• Climate resilience: Provides shade to crops, reducing heat stress and water loss, and protecting from extreme weather.

• Renewable energy generation: Contributes to solar power expansion, supporting climate goals and energy needs.

• Increased food security: Supports sustainable food production for a growing population without needing additional land.

• Economic benefits: Enables farmers to diversify income through both crop production and solar energy revenue.

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Consider the following statements about the import and significance of Urad (black gram) in India: Urad is a staple crop only grown in the Rabi season in India. India imports a substantial amount of Urad from Brazil, among other countries, due to complementary cropping seasons. Urad cultivation has recently spread to tropical regions, including the Caribbean and parts of Africa. How many of the above statements is/are incorrect? (a) Only one (b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect as Urad is grown in both Kharif and Rabi seasons in India. Statements 2 and 3 are correct because India imports Urad from countries like Brazil due to their complementary cropping seasons, and Urad cultivation has indeed expanded to tropical regions beyond South Asia. About Urad: Scientific name: Vigna mungo, commonly known as black gram. Origins: Native to South Asia; widely cultivated and highly valued in India. Culinary use: Essential in Indian cuisine, often used as a dal and paired with rice or curry. Season: Grown in both Kharif and Rabi seasons in India. Global cultivation: Also grown in tropical regions like the Caribbean, Fiji, Myanmar, and Africa, introduced by Indian immigrants. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect as Urad is grown in both Kharif and Rabi seasons in India. Statements 2 and 3 are correct because India imports Urad from countries like Brazil due to their complementary cropping seasons, and Urad cultivation has indeed expanded to tropical regions beyond South Asia. About Urad: Scientific name: Vigna mungo, commonly known as black gram. Origins: Native to South Asia; widely cultivated and highly valued in India. Culinary use: Essential in Indian cuisine, often used as a dal and paired with rice or curry. Season: Grown in both Kharif and Rabi seasons in India. Global cultivation: Also grown in tropical regions like the Caribbean, Fiji, Myanmar, and Africa, introduced by Indian immigrants.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following statements about the import and significance of Urad (black gram) in India:

• Urad is a staple crop only grown in the Rabi season in India.

• India imports a substantial amount of Urad from Brazil, among other countries, due to complementary cropping seasons.

• Urad cultivation has recently spread to tropical regions, including the Caribbean and parts of Africa.

How many of the above statements is/are incorrect?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• c) All three

Solution: A

Statement 1 is incorrect as Urad is grown in both Kharif and Rabi seasons in India. Statements 2 and 3 are correct because India imports Urad from countries like Brazil due to their complementary cropping seasons, and Urad cultivation has indeed expanded to tropical regions beyond South Asia.

About Urad:

• Scientific name: Vigna mungo, commonly known as black gram.

• Origins: Native to South Asia; widely cultivated and highly valued in India.

• Culinary use: Essential in Indian cuisine, often used as a dal and paired with rice or curry.

• Season: Grown in both Kharif and Rabi seasons in India.

• Global cultivation: Also grown in tropical regions like the Caribbean, Fiji, Myanmar, and Africa, introduced by Indian immigrants.

Solution: A

About Urad:

• Scientific name: Vigna mungo, commonly known as black gram.

• Origins: Native to South Asia; widely cultivated and highly valued in India.

• Culinary use: Essential in Indian cuisine, often used as a dal and paired with rice or curry.

• Season: Grown in both Kharif and Rabi seasons in India.

• Global cultivation: Also grown in tropical regions like the Caribbean, Fiji, Myanmar, and Africa, introduced by Indian immigrants.

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM): CAQM can issue binding directions to authorities in Delhi-NCR and surrounding states to improve air quality. CAQM has jurisdiction over all states in India. The commission has powers to restrict activities that impact air quality negatively. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Statements 1 and 3 are correct. CAQM has the authority to issue binding directions and restrict harmful activities. Statement 2 is incorrect because CAQM’s jurisdiction is limited to Delhi-NCR and adjoining states, not the entire country. About Commission for Air Quality Management: Origin: Established under the CAQM Act, 2021 for NCR and adjoining areas, replacing the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA). Aim: Coordinate and oversee efforts to improve air quality, prevent and control air pollution in Delhi-NCR and surrounding states (Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh). Jurisdiction: Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Powers: Restrict activities impacting air quality. Conduct research on pollution. Issue binding directions to authorities and individuals. Enforce compliance and take preventive actions. Composition: Chairperson: Secretary/Chief Secretary rank official. Five ex officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and UP. Three full-time technical members. Members from NGOs and technical bodies like CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog. Incorrect Solution: B Statements 1 and 3 are correct. CAQM has the authority to issue binding directions and restrict harmful activities. Statement 2 is incorrect because CAQM’s jurisdiction is limited to Delhi-NCR and adjoining states, not the entire country. About Commission for Air Quality Management: Origin: Established under the CAQM Act, 2021 for NCR and adjoining areas, replacing the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA). Aim: Coordinate and oversee efforts to improve air quality, prevent and control air pollution in Delhi-NCR and surrounding states (Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh). Jurisdiction: Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh. Powers: Restrict activities impacting air quality. Conduct research on pollution. Issue binding directions to authorities and individuals. Enforce compliance and take preventive actions. Composition: Chairperson: Secretary/Chief Secretary rank official. Five ex officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and UP. Three full-time technical members. Members from NGOs and technical bodies like CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM):

• CAQM can issue binding directions to authorities in Delhi-NCR and surrounding states to improve air quality.

• CAQM has jurisdiction over all states in India.

• The commission has powers to restrict activities that impact air quality negatively.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

Statements 1 and 3 are correct. CAQM has the authority to issue binding directions and restrict harmful activities. Statement 2 is incorrect because CAQM’s jurisdiction is limited to Delhi-NCR and adjoining states, not the entire country.

About Commission for Air Quality Management:

• Origin: Established under the CAQM Act, 2021 for NCR and adjoining areas, replacing the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA).

• Aim: Coordinate and oversee efforts to improve air quality, prevent and control air pollution in Delhi-NCR and surrounding states (Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh).

• Jurisdiction: Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

Powers:

• Restrict activities impacting air quality.

• Conduct research on pollution.

• Issue binding directions to authorities and individuals.

• Enforce compliance and take preventive actions.

Composition:

• Chairperson: Secretary/Chief Secretary rank official.

• Five ex officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and UP.

• Three full-time technical members.

• Members from NGOs and technical bodies like CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog.

Solution: B

About Commission for Air Quality Management:

• Origin: Established under the CAQM Act, 2021 for NCR and adjoining areas, replacing the Environment Pollution (Prevention and Control) Authority (EPCA).

• Aim: Coordinate and oversee efforts to improve air quality, prevent and control air pollution in Delhi-NCR and surrounding states (Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh).

• Jurisdiction: Delhi-NCR, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.

Powers:

• Restrict activities impacting air quality.

• Conduct research on pollution.

• Issue binding directions to authorities and individuals.

• Enforce compliance and take preventive actions.

Composition:

• Chairperson: Secretary/Chief Secretary rank official.

• Five ex officio members from Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, and UP.

• Three full-time technical members.

• Members from NGOs and technical bodies like CPCB, ISRO, and NITI Aayog.

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Which of the following principles allows airships to achieve lift? a) Vacuum-filled compartments to reduce weight b) Thrust-based propulsion like jet engines c) Magnetic levitation similar to Maglev trains d) Lighter-than-air principle using gases like helium or hydrogen Correct Solution: D Airships operate on the lighter-than-air principle, where gases such as helium or hydrogen, which are less dense than atmospheric air, provide lift. Unlike jet engines or Maglev trains (options b and c), airships use buoyancy instead of thrust or magnetism. About Airships: Origin and History: Developed as the first aircraft capable of powered, controlled flight in the early 20th century. Initially seen as the future of travel until airplanes took precedence; notable incidents like the Hindenburg disaster (1937) further diminished public trust in airships. How they work: Operate on the “lighter-than-air” principle, utilizing gases like helium (non-combustible) or, earlier, hydrogen (flammable) for lift. Lift occurs as the gas inside the airship is less dense than atmospheric air. Buoyancy challenge: Variations in buoyancy needed for cargo handling complicate airship operations; previously, releasing and refilling helium was unfeasible due to cost. Innovative solutions involve water ballast or compressed gas systems to adjust buoyancy without excessive helium usage. Incorrect Solution: D Airships operate on the lighter-than-air principle, where gases such as helium or hydrogen, which are less dense than atmospheric air, provide lift. Unlike jet engines or Maglev trains (options b and c), airships use buoyancy instead of thrust or magnetism. About Airships: Origin and History: Developed as the first aircraft capable of powered, controlled flight in the early 20th century. Initially seen as the future of travel until airplanes took precedence; notable incidents like the Hindenburg disaster (1937) further diminished public trust in airships. How they work: Operate on the “lighter-than-air” principle, utilizing gases like helium (non-combustible) or, earlier, hydrogen (flammable) for lift. Lift occurs as the gas inside the airship is less dense than atmospheric air. Buoyancy challenge: Variations in buoyancy needed for cargo handling complicate airship operations; previously, releasing and refilling helium was unfeasible due to cost. Innovative solutions involve water ballast or compressed gas systems to adjust buoyancy without excessive helium usage.

#### 4. Question

Which of the following principles allows airships to achieve lift?

• a) Vacuum-filled compartments to reduce weight

• b) Thrust-based propulsion like jet engines

• c) Magnetic levitation similar to Maglev trains

• d) Lighter-than-air principle using gases like helium or hydrogen

Solution: D

Airships operate on the lighter-than-air principle, where gases such as helium or hydrogen, which are less dense than atmospheric air, provide lift. Unlike jet engines or Maglev trains (options b and c), airships use buoyancy instead of thrust or magnetism.

About Airships:

• Origin and History: Developed as the first aircraft capable of powered, controlled flight in the early 20th century. Initially seen as the future of travel until airplanes took precedence; notable incidents like the Hindenburg disaster (1937) further diminished public trust in airships.

• Developed as the first aircraft capable of powered, controlled flight in the early 20th century.

• Initially seen as the future of travel until airplanes took precedence; notable incidents like the Hindenburg disaster (1937) further diminished public trust in airships.

• How they work: Operate on the “lighter-than-air” principle, utilizing gases like helium (non-combustible) or, earlier, hydrogen (flammable) for lift. Lift occurs as the gas inside the airship is less dense than atmospheric air.

• Operate on the “lighter-than-air” principle, utilizing gases like helium (non-combustible) or, earlier, hydrogen (flammable) for lift.

• Lift occurs as the gas inside the airship is less dense than atmospheric air.

• Buoyancy challenge: Variations in buoyancy needed for cargo handling complicate airship operations; previously, releasing and refilling helium was unfeasible due to cost. Innovative solutions involve water ballast or compressed gas systems to adjust buoyancy without excessive helium usage.

• Variations in buoyancy needed for cargo handling complicate airship operations; previously, releasing and refilling helium was unfeasible due to cost.

• Innovative solutions involve water ballast or compressed gas systems to adjust buoyancy without excessive helium usage.

Solution: D

About Airships:

• Developed as the first aircraft capable of powered, controlled flight in the early 20th century.

• Initially seen as the future of travel until airplanes took precedence; notable incidents like the Hindenburg disaster (1937) further diminished public trust in airships.

• Operate on the “lighter-than-air” principle, utilizing gases like helium (non-combustible) or, earlier, hydrogen (flammable) for lift.

• Lift occurs as the gas inside the airship is less dense than atmospheric air.

• Variations in buoyancy needed for cargo handling complicate airship operations; previously, releasing and refilling helium was unfeasible due to cost.

• Innovative solutions involve water ballast or compressed gas systems to adjust buoyancy without excessive helium usage.

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Consider the following statements regarding constitutional provisions for minority institutions in India: Article 28 allows religious instruction in all educational institutions, including those funded by the state. Article 30(1) grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice. Minority institutions are exempt from all forms of government regulation to preserve autonomy. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: A Article 30(1) of the Indian Constitution indeed grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice, safeguarding their cultural and educational rights. Statement 1 is incorrect because Article 28 restricts religious instruction in state-funded institutions but permits it in minority institutions not maintained by the state. Statement 3 is also incorrect; minority institutions do enjoy a degree of autonomy, but they are still subject to national standards for quality and other regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance with the country’s educational standards. Incorrect Solution: A Article 30(1) of the Indian Constitution indeed grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice, safeguarding their cultural and educational rights. Statement 1 is incorrect because Article 28 restricts religious instruction in state-funded institutions but permits it in minority institutions not maintained by the state. Statement 3 is also incorrect; minority institutions do enjoy a degree of autonomy, but they are still subject to national standards for quality and other regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance with the country’s educational standards.

#### 5. Question

Consider the following statements regarding constitutional provisions for minority institutions in India:

• Article 28 allows religious instruction in all educational institutions, including those funded by the state.

• Article 30(1) grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice.

• Minority institutions are exempt from all forms of government regulation to preserve autonomy.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

Article 30(1) of the Indian Constitution indeed grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice, safeguarding their cultural and educational rights.

Statement 1 is incorrect because Article 28 restricts religious instruction in state-funded institutions but permits it in minority institutions not maintained by the state.

Statement 3 is also incorrect; minority institutions do enjoy a degree of autonomy, but they are still subject to national standards for quality and other regulatory frameworks to ensure compliance with the country’s educational standards.

Solution: A

Article 30(1) of the Indian Constitution indeed grants minorities the right to establish and administer educational institutions of their choice, safeguarding their cultural and educational rights.

Statement 1 is incorrect because Article 28 restricts religious instruction in state-funded institutions but permits it in minority institutions not maintained by the state.

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