UPSC Editorials Quiz : 29 July 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 With reference to the Astra missile, consider the following statements: It is India’s first indigenously developed short-range surface-to-air missile. The missile has been developed solely by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) without any partners. A key feature of the Astra is its compatibility for integration with multiple fighter aircraft platforms of the Indian Air Force. 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. Astra is a Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), not a short-range surface-to-air missile. Statement 2 is incorrect. The missile was developed by the DRDO in partnership with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Statement 3 is correct. The versatility and compatibility with multiple fighter platforms. It is already integrated on the Su-30 MKI, with planned upgrades for Tejas, Mirage-2000, and MiG-29. This interoperability is a significant force multiplier for the IAF, allowing a single advanced weapon system to be used across a diverse fleet. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect. Astra is a Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), not a short-range surface-to-air missile. Statement 2 is incorrect. The missile was developed by the DRDO in partnership with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL). Statement 3 is correct. The versatility and compatibility with multiple fighter platforms. It is already integrated on the Su-30 MKI, with planned upgrades for Tejas, Mirage-2000, and MiG-29. This interoperability is a significant force multiplier for the IAF, allowing a single advanced weapon system to be used across a diverse fleet.

#### 1. Question

With reference to the Astra missile, consider the following statements:

• It is India’s first indigenously developed short-range surface-to-air missile.

• The missile has been developed solely by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) without any partners.

• A key feature of the Astra is its compatibility for integration with multiple fighter aircraft platforms of the Indian Air Force.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Statement 1 is incorrect. Astra is a Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), not a short-range surface-to-air missile.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The missile was developed by the DRDO in partnership with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

Statement 3 is correct. The versatility and compatibility with multiple fighter platforms. It is already integrated on the Su-30 MKI, with planned upgrades for Tejas, Mirage-2000, and MiG-29. This interoperability is a significant force multiplier for the IAF, allowing a single advanced weapon system to be used across a diverse fleet.

Solution: A

• Statement 1 is incorrect. Astra is a Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM), not a short-range surface-to-air missile.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The missile was developed by the DRDO in partnership with the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question With reference to the earthquake vulnerability of Delhi-NCR, consider the following statements: The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has classified the Delhi region as Seismic Zone V, indicating the highest possible risk. Subsurface weak zones along river fault lineaments like the Yamuna contribute to the region’s seismic instability. The National Center for Seismology (NCS) has concluded that the region is only susceptible to deep-focus earthquakes, which pose a lower risk to surface structures. 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. Delhi lies in Seismic Zone IV, which is a ‘high-damage risk zone’. Seismic Zone V is the ‘very high-damage risk zone’ and represents a higher level of danger. Statement 2 is correct. The seismic studies identify “lineaments like the Yamuna and Ganga River faults, indicating deep crustal weaknesses.” These subsurface features are zones of geological weakness that can influence seismic activity and amplify ground shaking, thus contributing to the region’s vulnerability. Statement 3 is incorrect. The NCS has noted frequent tremors from shallow-focus quakes. Shallow-focus earthquakes are generally more destructive than deep-focus ones of the same magnitude because their energy is released closer to the surface, causing more intense ground shaking. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is incorrect. Delhi lies in Seismic Zone IV, which is a ‘high-damage risk zone’. Seismic Zone V is the ‘very high-damage risk zone’ and represents a higher level of danger. Statement 2 is correct. The seismic studies identify “lineaments like the Yamuna and Ganga River faults, indicating deep crustal weaknesses.” These subsurface features are zones of geological weakness that can influence seismic activity and amplify ground shaking, thus contributing to the region’s vulnerability. Statement 3 is incorrect. The NCS has noted frequent tremors from shallow-focus quakes. Shallow-focus earthquakes are generally more destructive than deep-focus ones of the same magnitude because their energy is released closer to the surface, causing more intense ground shaking.

#### 2. Question

With reference to the earthquake vulnerability of Delhi-NCR, consider the following statements:

• The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has classified the Delhi region as Seismic Zone V, indicating the highest possible risk.

• Subsurface weak zones along river fault lineaments like the Yamuna contribute to the region’s seismic instability.

• The National Center for Seismology (NCS) has concluded that the region is only susceptible to deep-focus earthquakes, which pose a lower risk to surface structures.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: A

• Statement 1 is incorrect. Delhi lies in Seismic Zone IV, which is a ‘high-damage risk zone’. Seismic Zone V is the ‘very high-damage risk zone’ and represents a higher level of danger.

• Statement 2 is correct. The seismic studies identify “lineaments like the Yamuna and Ganga River faults, indicating deep crustal weaknesses.” These subsurface features are zones of geological weakness that can influence seismic activity and amplify ground shaking, thus contributing to the region’s vulnerability.

Statement 3 is incorrect. The NCS has noted frequent tremors from shallow-focus quakes. Shallow-focus earthquakes are generally more destructive than deep-focus ones of the same magnitude because their energy is released closer to the surface, causing more intense ground shaking.

Solution: A

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question With reference to the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) system, consider the following statements: The FRI system was conceptualized and launched by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to protect the UPI ecosystem. The risk classification of a mobile number under FRI, once assigned, is permanent and cannot be revised. Integration of the FRI system is mandatory only for Public Sector Banks to safeguard government funds. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect. The FRI system was launched by the Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU) under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). While it significantly benefits the UPI ecosystem managed by NPCI, the initiative originated from the DoT. Statement 2 is incorrect. Risk classification is a dynamic process based on real-time data and intelligence. A number’s risk level can change based on new reports or a lack of fraudulent activity over time. The system includes a Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) which is shared and updated regularly, implying the data is not static or permanent. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has advised all banks to integrate the FRI system. This includes private sector banks, payment banks, and other financial service providers. The goal is to create a secure financial ecosystem for all users, not just within Public Sector Banks. Collaboration with private players like PhonePe, Paytm, HDFC, and ICICI, confirming its wide applicability. Incorrect Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect. The FRI system was launched by the Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU) under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). While it significantly benefits the UPI ecosystem managed by NPCI, the initiative originated from the DoT. Statement 2 is incorrect. Risk classification is a dynamic process based on real-time data and intelligence. A number’s risk level can change based on new reports or a lack of fraudulent activity over time. The system includes a Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) which is shared and updated regularly, implying the data is not static or permanent. Statement 3 is incorrect. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has advised all banks to integrate the FRI system. This includes private sector banks, payment banks, and other financial service providers. The goal is to create a secure financial ecosystem for all users, not just within Public Sector Banks. Collaboration with private players like PhonePe, Paytm, HDFC, and ICICI, confirming its wide applicability.

#### 3. Question

With reference to the Financial Fraud Risk Indicator (FRI) system, consider the following statements:

• The FRI system was conceptualized and launched by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) to protect the UPI ecosystem.

• The risk classification of a mobile number under FRI, once assigned, is permanent and cannot be revised.

• Integration of the FRI system is mandatory only for Public Sector Banks to safeguard government funds.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: D

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The FRI system was launched by the Digital Intelligence Unit (DIU) under the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). While it significantly benefits the UPI ecosystem managed by NPCI, the initiative originated from the DoT.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. Risk classification is a dynamic process based on real-time data and intelligence. A number’s risk level can change based on new reports or a lack of fraudulent activity over time. The system includes a Mobile Number Revocation List (MNRL) which is shared and updated regularly, implying the data is not static or permanent.

Statement 3 is incorrect. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has advised all banks to integrate the FRI system. This includes private sector banks, payment banks, and other financial service providers. The goal is to create a secure financial ecosystem for all users, not just within Public Sector Banks. Collaboration with private players like PhonePe, Paytm, HDFC, and ICICI, confirming its wide applicability.

Solution: D

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements regarding Tandem solar cells. Statement-I: Tandem solar cells that combine silicon and perovskite materials can achieve higher energy conversion efficiency than traditional silicon-only solar panels. Statement-II: The perovskite layer is optimized to absorb the infrared portion of the solar spectrum, while the silicon layer absorbs the ultraviolet portion. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements? (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct Correct Solution: C Statement-I is correct. The primary motivation for developing tandem solar cells is to overcome the efficiency ceiling of single-junction cells. By layering materials with different bandgaps, such as silicon and perovskite, they can convert a broader range of the solar spectrum into electricity, leading to significantly higher demonstrated efficiencies (like the 29.8% mentioned). Statement-II is incorrect. Perovskite materials have a wider bandgap, making them suitable for absorbing high-energy photons (visible and ultraviolet light). Silicon has a narrower bandgap and is placed at the bottom to absorb the lower-energy photons (near-infrared light) that pass through the perovskite layer. Incorrect Solution: C Statement-I is correct. The primary motivation for developing tandem solar cells is to overcome the efficiency ceiling of single-junction cells. By layering materials with different bandgaps, such as silicon and perovskite, they can convert a broader range of the solar spectrum into electricity, leading to significantly higher demonstrated efficiencies (like the 29.8% mentioned). Statement-II is incorrect. Perovskite materials have a wider bandgap, making them suitable for absorbing high-energy photons (visible and ultraviolet light). Silicon has a narrower bandgap and is placed at the bottom to absorb the lower-energy photons (near-infrared light) that pass through the perovskite layer.

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements regarding Tandem solar cells.

Statement-I: Tandem solar cells that combine silicon and perovskite materials can achieve higher energy conversion efficiency than traditional silicon-only solar panels.

Statement-II: The perovskite layer is optimized to absorb the infrared portion of the solar spectrum, while the silicon layer absorbs the ultraviolet portion.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

• (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

• (b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

• (c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect

• (d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Solution: C

• Statement-I is correct. The primary motivation for developing tandem solar cells is to overcome the efficiency ceiling of single-junction cells. By layering materials with different bandgaps, such as silicon and perovskite, they can convert a broader range of the solar spectrum into electricity, leading to significantly higher demonstrated efficiencies (like the 29.8% mentioned).

Statement-II is incorrect. Perovskite materials have a wider bandgap, making them suitable for absorbing high-energy photons (visible and ultraviolet light). Silicon has a narrower bandgap and is placed at the bottom to absorb the lower-energy photons (near-infrared light) that pass through the perovskite layer.

Solution: C

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question Which of the following best describes the primary implementation strategy of the Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishment (ADEETIE) scheme to maximize its impact? (a) A universal rollout across all industries simultaneously to ensure wide coverage. (b) A digitally exclusive model where all assistance is provided through a mobile application. (c) A cluster-based approach, initially targeting a select number of industrial clusters and then expanding. (d) A performance-linked model where funding is released only after a 100% reduction in energy usage is demonstrated. Correct Solution: C Option (c) is correct. The scheme is being implemented in a phased, cluster-based manner. Phase I targets 60 industrial clusters, with a plan to expand to 100 more in Phase II. This approach allows for concentrated efforts, learning, and refinement before a wider scale-up. It helps in targeting energy-intensive MSME hubs where the impact of interventions can be most significant. What is ADEETIE? ADEETIE stands for Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishments. It is a flagship scheme to promote low-carbon industrial growth by facilitating adoption of clean, efficient energy technologies. Launched by: Union Ministry of Power Implemented by: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) Budget & Duration: Total Budget: ₹1000 crore (FY 2025–26 to FY 2027–28). ₹875 crore for interest subvention, ₹50 crore for audits, ₹75 crore for handholding support. Core Objectives: Promote energy efficiency (EE) in MSMEs to reduce emissions. Provide financial assistance and technical support for technology adoption. Improve power-productivity ratio and support India’s net zero and Viksit Bharat goals. Key Features: Interest Subvention: 5% for Micro and Small Enterprises 3% for Medium Enterprises Technical Handholding: Investment-grade energy audits (IGEA) DPR preparation and tech implementation Monitoring & verification (M&V) post-installation Digital Facilitation: Dedicated portal to track applications and disbursements. Cluster-Based Rollout: Phase I: 60 industrial clusters Phase II: 100 additional clusters Expected Outcomes: Up to 50% reduction in energy usage in some technologies. ₹9000 crore investments catalysed, including ₹6750 crore in MSME loans. Eligibility Criteria: Registered MSMEs in identified clusters/sectors. Active participation in energy audits and DPR approval process. Preference to early adopters and energy-intensive industries. Incorrect Solution: C Option (c) is correct. The scheme is being implemented in a phased, cluster-based manner. Phase I targets 60 industrial clusters, with a plan to expand to 100 more in Phase II. This approach allows for concentrated efforts, learning, and refinement before a wider scale-up. It helps in targeting energy-intensive MSME hubs where the impact of interventions can be most significant. What is ADEETIE? ADEETIE stands for Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishments. It is a flagship scheme to promote low-carbon industrial growth by facilitating adoption of clean, efficient energy technologies. Launched by: Union Ministry of Power Implemented by: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) Budget & Duration: Total Budget: ₹1000 crore (FY 2025–26 to FY 2027–28). ₹875 crore for interest subvention, ₹50 crore for audits, ₹75 crore for handholding support. Core Objectives: Promote energy efficiency (EE) in MSMEs to reduce emissions. Provide financial assistance and technical support for technology adoption. Improve power-productivity ratio and support India’s net zero and Viksit Bharat goals. Key Features: Interest Subvention: 5% for Micro and Small Enterprises 3% for Medium Enterprises Technical Handholding: Investment-grade energy audits (IGEA) DPR preparation and tech implementation Monitoring & verification (M&V) post-installation Digital Facilitation: Dedicated portal to track applications and disbursements. Cluster-Based Rollout: Phase I: 60 industrial clusters Phase II: 100 additional clusters Expected Outcomes: Up to 50% reduction in energy usage in some technologies. ₹9000 crore investments catalysed, including ₹6750 crore in MSME loans. Eligibility Criteria: Registered MSMEs in identified clusters/sectors. Active participation in energy audits and DPR approval process. Preference to early adopters and energy-intensive industries.

#### 5. Question

Which of the following best describes the primary implementation strategy of the Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishment (ADEETIE) scheme to maximize its impact?

• (a) A universal rollout across all industries simultaneously to ensure wide coverage.

• (b) A digitally exclusive model where all assistance is provided through a mobile application.

• (c) A cluster-based approach, initially targeting a select number of industrial clusters and then expanding.

• (d) A performance-linked model where funding is released only after a 100% reduction in energy usage is demonstrated.

Solution: C

• Option (c) is correct. The scheme is being implemented in a phased, cluster-based manner. Phase I targets 60 industrial clusters, with a plan to expand to 100 more in Phase II. This approach allows for concentrated efforts, learning, and refinement before a wider scale-up. It helps in targeting energy-intensive MSME hubs where the impact of interventions can be most significant.

• What is ADEETIE? ADEETIE stands for Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishments. It is a flagship scheme to promote low-carbon industrial growth by facilitating adoption of clean, efficient energy technologies.

• ADEETIE stands for Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishments.

• It is a flagship scheme to promote low-carbon industrial growth by facilitating adoption of clean, efficient energy technologies.

• Launched by: Union Ministry of Power

• Implemented by: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)

• Budget & Duration:

• Total Budget: ₹1000 crore (FY 2025–26 to FY 2027–28). ₹875 crore for interest subvention, ₹50 crore for audits, ₹75 crore for handholding support.

• Total Budget: ₹1000 crore (FY 2025–26 to FY 2027–28).

• ₹875 crore for interest subvention, ₹50 crore for audits, ₹75 crore for handholding support.

• Core Objectives:

• Promote energy efficiency (EE) in MSMEs to reduce emissions. Provide financial assistance and technical support for technology adoption. Improve power-productivity ratio and support India’s net zero and Viksit Bharat goals.

• Promote energy efficiency (EE) in MSMEs to reduce emissions.

• Provide financial assistance and technical support for technology adoption.

• Improve power-productivity ratio and support India’s net zero and Viksit Bharat goals.

• Key Features:

• Interest Subvention: 5% for Micro and Small Enterprises 3% for Medium Enterprises Technical Handholding: Investment-grade energy audits (IGEA) DPR preparation and tech implementation Monitoring & verification (M&V) post-installation Digital Facilitation: Dedicated portal to track applications and disbursements. Cluster-Based Rollout: Phase I: 60 industrial clusters Phase II: 100 additional clusters Expected Outcomes: Up to 50% reduction in energy usage in some technologies. ₹9000 crore investments catalysed, including ₹6750 crore in MSME loans.

• Interest Subvention: 5% for Micro and Small Enterprises 3% for Medium Enterprises

• 5% for Micro and Small Enterprises

• 3% for Medium Enterprises

• Technical Handholding: Investment-grade energy audits (IGEA) DPR preparation and tech implementation Monitoring & verification (M&V) post-installation

• Investment-grade energy audits (IGEA)

• DPR preparation and tech implementation

• Monitoring & verification (M&V) post-installation

• Digital Facilitation: Dedicated portal to track applications and disbursements.

• Cluster-Based Rollout: Phase I: 60 industrial clusters Phase II: 100 additional clusters

• Phase I: 60 industrial clusters

• Phase II: 100 additional clusters

• Expected Outcomes: Up to 50% reduction in energy usage in some technologies. ₹9000 crore investments catalysed, including ₹6750 crore in MSME loans.

• Up to 50% reduction in energy usage in some technologies.

• ₹9000 crore investments catalysed, including ₹6750 crore in MSME loans.

• Eligibility Criteria:

• Registered MSMEs in identified clusters/sectors. Active participation in energy audits and DPR approval process. Preference to early adopters and energy-intensive industries.

• Registered MSMEs in identified clusters/sectors.

• Active participation in energy audits and DPR approval process.

• Preference to early adopters and energy-intensive industries.

Solution: C

• ADEETIE stands for Assistance in Deploying Energy Efficient Technologies in Industries & Establishments.

• It is a flagship scheme to promote low-carbon industrial growth by facilitating adoption of clean, efficient energy technologies.

• Launched by: Union Ministry of Power

• Implemented by: The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE)

• Budget & Duration:

• Total Budget: ₹1000 crore (FY 2025–26 to FY 2027–28). ₹875 crore for interest subvention, ₹50 crore for audits, ₹75 crore for handholding support.

• Total Budget: ₹1000 crore (FY 2025–26 to FY 2027–28).

• ₹875 crore for interest subvention, ₹50 crore for audits, ₹75 crore for handholding support.

• Core Objectives:

• Promote energy efficiency (EE) in MSMEs to reduce emissions.

• Provide financial assistance and technical support for technology adoption.

• Improve power-productivity ratio and support India’s net zero and Viksit Bharat goals.

• Key Features:

• Interest Subvention: 5% for Micro and Small Enterprises 3% for Medium Enterprises

• 5% for Micro and Small Enterprises

• 3% for Medium Enterprises

• Technical Handholding: Investment-grade energy audits (IGEA) DPR preparation and tech implementation Monitoring & verification (M&V) post-installation

• Investment-grade energy audits (IGEA)

• DPR preparation and tech implementation

• Monitoring & verification (M&V) post-installation

• Digital Facilitation: Dedicated portal to track applications and disbursements.

• Cluster-Based Rollout: Phase I: 60 industrial clusters Phase II: 100 additional clusters

• Phase I: 60 industrial clusters

• Phase II: 100 additional clusters

• Expected Outcomes: Up to 50% reduction in energy usage in some technologies. ₹9000 crore investments catalysed, including ₹6750 crore in MSME loans.

• Up to 50% reduction in energy usage in some technologies.

• ₹9000 crore investments catalysed, including ₹6750 crore in MSME loans.

• Eligibility Criteria:

• Registered MSMEs in identified clusters/sectors. Active participation in energy audits and DPR approval process. Preference to early adopters and energy-intensive industries.

• Registered MSMEs in identified clusters/sectors.

• Active participation in energy audits and DPR approval process.

• Preference to early adopters and energy-intensive industries.

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