UPSC Editorials Quiz : 27 May 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 Regarding the benefits of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) floor pricing as per the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, consider the following statements: It primarily aims to reduce the cost of electronic goods for consumers by subsidizing manufacturers. It directly leads to an increase in the informal processing of e-waste due to higher operational costs for formal recyclers. It encourages material recovery of valuable elements like gold and copper, contributing to a circular economy. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: a) Statement 1 is incorrect. EPR floor pricing is designed to ensure fair compensation for recyclers, not to subsidize manufacturers or directly reduce consumer costs. While efficient recycling might have long-term indirect benefits, the primary aim of floor pricing is to make formal recycling economically viable. Statement 2 is incorrect. EPR floor pricing is intended to strengthen the formal e-waste processing sector by ensuring price predictability and fair compensation for recyclers. This makes formal recycling more competitive and financially sustainable, thereby aiming to reduce the dominance of the informal sector, not increase it. The informal sector thrives on low operational costs often linked to environmentally unsound practices. Statement 3 is correct. By promoting formal and scientific recycling, which is made more viable through mechanisms like EPR floor pricing, the system encourages better material recovery. Formal recyclers are better equipped to extract valuable materials such as gold, copper, silver, and palladium from e-waste. This recovery of resources is a key aspect of a circular economy, reducing reliance on virgin materials and minimizing waste. It also helps in improving tax revenue and meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Incorrect Solution: a) Statement 1 is incorrect. EPR floor pricing is designed to ensure fair compensation for recyclers, not to subsidize manufacturers or directly reduce consumer costs. While efficient recycling might have long-term indirect benefits, the primary aim of floor pricing is to make formal recycling economically viable. Statement 2 is incorrect. EPR floor pricing is intended to strengthen the formal e-waste processing sector by ensuring price predictability and fair compensation for recyclers. This makes formal recycling more competitive and financially sustainable, thereby aiming to reduce the dominance of the informal sector, not increase it. The informal sector thrives on low operational costs often linked to environmentally unsound practices. Statement 3 is correct. By promoting formal and scientific recycling, which is made more viable through mechanisms like EPR floor pricing, the system encourages better material recovery. Formal recyclers are better equipped to extract valuable materials such as gold, copper, silver, and palladium from e-waste. This recovery of resources is a key aspect of a circular economy, reducing reliance on virgin materials and minimizing waste. It also helps in improving tax revenue and meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

#### 1. Question

Regarding the benefits of Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) floor pricing as per the E-Waste (Management) Rules, 2022, consider the following statements:

• It primarily aims to reduce the cost of electronic goods for consumers by subsidizing manufacturers.

• It directly leads to an increase in the informal processing of e-waste due to higher operational costs for formal recyclers.

• It encourages material recovery of valuable elements like gold and copper, contributing to a circular economy.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: a)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. EPR floor pricing is designed to ensure fair compensation for recyclers, not to subsidize manufacturers or directly reduce consumer costs. While efficient recycling might have long-term indirect benefits, the primary aim of floor pricing is to make formal recycling economically viable.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. EPR floor pricing is intended to strengthen the formal e-waste processing sector by ensuring price predictability and fair compensation for recyclers. This makes formal recycling more competitive and financially sustainable, thereby aiming to reduce the dominance of the informal sector, not increase it. The informal sector thrives on low operational costs often linked to environmentally unsound practices.

• Statement 3 is correct. By promoting formal and scientific recycling, which is made more viable through mechanisms like EPR floor pricing, the system encourages better material recovery. Formal recyclers are better equipped to extract valuable materials such as gold, copper, silver, and palladium from e-waste. This recovery of resources is a key aspect of a circular economy, reducing reliance on virgin materials and minimizing waste. It also helps in improving tax revenue and meeting Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Solution: a)

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Dirang Geothermal Well: It is the first geothermal energy project to be successfully commissioned in Northeast India. The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS), Itanagar, is the primary developing agency for this project. A key significance of this project is its potential to provide baseload renewable power, reducing dependence on diesel in the Himalayan climate. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: c) All three statements regarding the Dirang Geothermal Well are correct. The project represents a milestone as the first such geothermal project in Northeast India, with the successful drilling of the region’s first geothermal production well. The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS), Itanagar, an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, is the key agency that developed and headed the drilling operation for this project. One of the primary significances of the Dirang geothermal project is its ability to provide baseload renewable power. Unlike intermittent renewable sources such as solar or wind, geothermal energy can supply consistent power, which is crucial for the energy security of remote regions. This project aims to reduce the dependence on diesel and wood for energy needs, particularly in the cold Himalayan climates, and has the potential to power Dirang entirely. International collaboration with partners from Norway and Iceland has also been a feature of this project. Incorrect Solution: c) All three statements regarding the Dirang Geothermal Well are correct. The project represents a milestone as the first such geothermal project in Northeast India, with the successful drilling of the region’s first geothermal production well. The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS), Itanagar, an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, is the key agency that developed and headed the drilling operation for this project. One of the primary significances of the Dirang geothermal project is its ability to provide baseload renewable power. Unlike intermittent renewable sources such as solar or wind, geothermal energy can supply consistent power, which is crucial for the energy security of remote regions. This project aims to reduce the dependence on diesel and wood for energy needs, particularly in the cold Himalayan climates, and has the potential to power Dirang entirely. International collaboration with partners from Norway and Iceland has also been a feature of this project.

#### 2. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Dirang Geothermal Well:

• It is the first geothermal energy project to be successfully commissioned in Northeast India.

• The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS), Itanagar, is the primary developing agency for this project.

• A key significance of this project is its potential to provide baseload renewable power, reducing dependence on diesel in the Himalayan climate.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: c)

All three statements regarding the Dirang Geothermal Well are correct.

• The project represents a milestone as the first such geothermal project in Northeast India, with the successful drilling of the region’s first geothermal production well.

• The Centre for Earth Sciences and Himalayan Studies (CESHS), Itanagar, an autonomous institution under the Department of Science and Technology, Government of Arunachal Pradesh, is the key agency that developed and headed the drilling operation for this project.

• One of the primary significances of the Dirang geothermal project is its ability to provide baseload renewable power. Unlike intermittent renewable sources such as solar or wind, geothermal energy can supply consistent power, which is crucial for the energy security of remote regions. This project aims to reduce the dependence on diesel and wood for energy needs, particularly in the cold Himalayan climates, and has the potential to power Dirang entirely. International collaboration with partners from Norway and Iceland has also been a feature of this project.

Solution: c)

All three statements regarding the Dirang Geothermal Well are correct.

• The project represents a milestone as the first such geothermal project in Northeast India, with the successful drilling of the region’s first geothermal production well.

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC): The Constitution mandates that all members of the UPSC, including the Chairman, must be retired civil servants with at least 15 years of service. The Chairman of the UPSC can be removed by the President solely on the grounds of recommendations made by the Prime Minister’s Office. The salaries and allowances of the Chairman and members of the UPSC are subject to the vote of Parliament annually. How many of the above statements is/are incorrect? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution: c) All three statements are incorrect. The Constitution does not mandate that all members must be retired civil servants with 15 years of service. It stipulates that as nearly as may be, one-half (50%) of the members of the Commission should be persons who have held office for at least ten years either under the Government of India or under the Government of a State. There is no specific 15-year service rule for all members. The Chairman of the UPSC cannot be removed by the President solely on the recommendations of the Prime Minister’s Office. The removal process for misbehaviour is stringent and governed by Article 317 of the Constitution. The President must refer the matter to the Supreme Court for an inquiry. The advice tendered by the Supreme Court after the inquiry is binding on the President. Other grounds for removal include being adjudged insolvent, engaging in paid employment outside official duties, or being unfit to continue due to infirmity of mind or body. The salaries, allowances, and pensions payable to or in respect of the members of the UPSC are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India. This means they are not subject to the vote of Parliament, ensuring the financial independence of the Commission. Incorrect Solution: c) All three statements are incorrect. The Constitution does not mandate that all members must be retired civil servants with 15 years of service. It stipulates that as nearly as may be, one-half (50%) of the members of the Commission should be persons who have held office for at least ten years either under the Government of India or under the Government of a State. There is no specific 15-year service rule for all members. The Chairman of the UPSC cannot be removed by the President solely on the recommendations of the Prime Minister’s Office. The removal process for misbehaviour is stringent and governed by Article 317 of the Constitution. The President must refer the matter to the Supreme Court for an inquiry. The advice tendered by the Supreme Court after the inquiry is binding on the President. Other grounds for removal include being adjudged insolvent, engaging in paid employment outside official duties, or being unfit to continue due to infirmity of mind or body. The salaries, allowances, and pensions payable to or in respect of the members of the UPSC are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India. This means they are not subject to the vote of Parliament, ensuring the financial independence of the Commission.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC):

• The Constitution mandates that all members of the UPSC, including the Chairman, must be retired civil servants with at least 15 years of service.

• The Chairman of the UPSC can be removed by the President solely on the grounds of recommendations made by the Prime Minister’s Office.

• The salaries and allowances of the Chairman and members of the UPSC are subject to the vote of Parliament annually.

How many of the above statements is/are incorrect?

• a) Only one

• b) Only two

• c) All three

Solution: c)

All three statements are incorrect.

• The Constitution does not mandate that all members must be retired civil servants with 15 years of service. It stipulates that as nearly as may be, one-half (50%) of the members of the Commission should be persons who have held office for at least ten years either under the Government of India or under the Government of a State. There is no specific 15-year service rule for all members.

• The Chairman of the UPSC cannot be removed by the President solely on the recommendations of the Prime Minister’s Office. The removal process for misbehaviour is stringent and governed by Article 317 of the Constitution. The President must refer the matter to the Supreme Court for an inquiry. The advice tendered by the Supreme Court after the inquiry is binding on the President. Other grounds for removal include being adjudged insolvent, engaging in paid employment outside official duties, or being unfit to continue due to infirmity of mind or body.

• The salaries, allowances, and pensions payable to or in respect of the members of the UPSC are charged on the Consolidated Fund of India. This means they are not subject to the vote of Parliament, ensuring the financial independence of the Commission.

Solution: c)

All three statements are incorrect.

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question With reference to the ‘Bhargavastra’ Counter-Drone System, consider the following statements: It is primarily a soft-kill system that uses jammers and spoofers to neutralize enemy drones. The system has been indigenously developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It supports the simultaneous launch of over 60 micro-missiles, enabling rapid engagement of drone swarms. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: a) Statement 1 is Incorrect. Bhargavastra is primarily a hard-kill micro-missile-based counter-drone system designed to eliminate hostile drones using guided munitions. While it can be fitted with jammers and spoofers for an added layer, its core is hard-kill. Statement 2 is Incorrect. The Bhargavastra system has been developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Ltd (SDAL) in partnership with Economic Explosives Ltd. Statement 3 is Correct. Bhargavastra supports the simultaneous launch of 64 micro-missiles, enabling rapid engagement of multiple targets, including drone swarms. Incorrect Solution: a) Statement 1 is Incorrect. Bhargavastra is primarily a hard-kill micro-missile-based counter-drone system designed to eliminate hostile drones using guided munitions. While it can be fitted with jammers and spoofers for an added layer, its core is hard-kill. Statement 2 is Incorrect. The Bhargavastra system has been developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Ltd (SDAL) in partnership with Economic Explosives Ltd. Statement 3 is Correct. Bhargavastra supports the simultaneous launch of 64 micro-missiles, enabling rapid engagement of multiple targets, including drone swarms.

#### 4. Question

With reference to the ‘Bhargavastra’ Counter-Drone System, consider the following statements:

• It is primarily a soft-kill system that uses jammers and spoofers to neutralize enemy drones.

• The system has been indigenously developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

• It supports the simultaneous launch of over 60 micro-missiles, enabling rapid engagement of drone swarms.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: a)

• Statement 1 is Incorrect. Bhargavastra is primarily a hard-kill micro-missile-based counter-drone system designed to eliminate hostile drones using guided munitions. While it can be fitted with jammers and spoofers for an added layer, its core is hard-kill.

• Statement 2 is Incorrect. The Bhargavastra system has been developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Ltd (SDAL) in partnership with Economic Explosives Ltd.

• Statement 3 is Correct. Bhargavastra supports the simultaneous launch of 64 micro-missiles, enabling rapid engagement of multiple targets, including drone swarms.

Solution: a)

• Statement 2 is Incorrect. The Bhargavastra system has been developed by Solar Defence and Aerospace Ltd (SDAL) in partnership with Economic Explosives Ltd.

• Statement 3 is Correct. Bhargavastra supports the simultaneous launch of 64 micro-missiles, enabling rapid engagement of multiple targets, including drone swarms.

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Consider the following statements regarding the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in India: The WPI is published monthly by the National Statistical Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The current base year for WPI calculation is 2011–12. Unlike the Consumer Price Index (CPI), the WPI includes price changes in services in its computation. How many of the above statements is/are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution: a) Statement 1 is incorrect. The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) is published monthly by the Office of Economic Adviser, under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The National Statistical Office (NSO) is responsible for publishing the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Statement 2 is correct. The current base year for the WPI is 2011–12. This was updated from the previous base year of 2004–05 to align with GDP and Index of Industrial Production (IIP) data, and to reflect structural changes in the economy. Statement 3 is incorrect. The WPI covers only goods and does not include services. The Consumer Price Index (CPI), on the other hand, tracks the prices of both goods and services at the retail level. This is a key distinction between the two indices. Incorrect Solution: a) Statement 1 is incorrect. The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) is published monthly by the Office of Economic Adviser, under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The National Statistical Office (NSO) is responsible for publishing the Consumer Price Index (CPI). Statement 2 is correct. The current base year for the WPI is 2011–12. This was updated from the previous base year of 2004–05 to align with GDP and Index of Industrial Production (IIP) data, and to reflect structural changes in the economy. Statement 3 is incorrect. The WPI covers only goods and does not include services. The Consumer Price Index (CPI), on the other hand, tracks the prices of both goods and services at the retail level. This is a key distinction between the two indices.

#### 5. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) in India:

• The WPI is published monthly by the National Statistical Office (NSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation.

• The current base year for WPI calculation is 2011–12.

• Unlike the Consumer Price Index (CPI), the WPI includes price changes in services in its computation.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• a) Only one

• b) Only two

• c) All three

Solution: a)

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The Wholesale Price Index (WPI) is published monthly by the Office of Economic Adviser, under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The National Statistical Office (NSO) is responsible for publishing the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

• Statement 2 is correct. The current base year for the WPI is 2011–12. This was updated from the previous base year of 2004–05 to align with GDP and Index of Industrial Production (IIP) data, and to reflect structural changes in the economy.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. The WPI covers only goods and does not include services. The Consumer Price Index (CPI), on the other hand, tracks the prices of both goods and services at the retail level. This is a key distinction between the two indices.

Solution: a)

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