UPSC Editorials Quiz : 31 October 2025
Kartavya Desk Staff
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 the Sanchi Stupa: It was commissioned during the Satavahana period. It includes inscriptions in Brahmi and Gupta scripts. The paradakshinapatha is meant for circumambulation of the stupa by devotees. How many of the above statements is/are incorrect? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect: The Sanchi Stupa was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka during the 3rd century BCE and expanded later by the Shungas and Satavahanas. Statement 2 is incorrect: Inscriptions are found in Brahmi and Kharosthi, not Gupta scripts. Statement 3 is correct: The paradakshinapatha is a pathway for devotees to perform circumambulation as a form of devotion. About Sanchi Stupa: Historical Significance: Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and later expanded by Shunga and Satavahana rulers. Architectural Features: Large hemispherical dome (Anda) symbolizing the universe. Chatras (umbrella structures) on top, signifying royalty and divine protection. Harmika (balcony) atop the dome representing the abode of the gods. Medhi stores relics and serves as the base of the stupa. Toranas: Four elaborately carved gates depicting Buddha’s life events and Jataka tales, pointing to four cardinal directions. Vedica: Railings enclosing the stupa for sacred protection. Paradakshinapatha: Pathways for circumambulation by devotees. Symbolism: Early Buddhist aniconism; Buddha represented through symbols like footprints, wheels, or empty thrones rather than direct depictions. Inscriptions: Includes Ashokan Lion Capital and inscriptions in Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts. UNESCO Status: Declared a World Heritage Site in 1989. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect: The Sanchi Stupa was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka during the 3rd century BCE and expanded later by the Shungas and Satavahanas. Statement 2 is incorrect: Inscriptions are found in Brahmi and Kharosthi, not Gupta scripts. Statement 3 is correct: The paradakshinapatha is a pathway for devotees to perform circumambulation as a form of devotion. About Sanchi Stupa: Historical Significance: Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and later expanded by Shunga and Satavahana rulers. Architectural Features: Large hemispherical dome (Anda) symbolizing the universe. Chatras (umbrella structures) on top, signifying royalty and divine protection. Harmika (balcony) atop the dome representing the abode of the gods. Medhi stores relics and serves as the base of the stupa. Toranas: Four elaborately carved gates depicting Buddha’s life events and Jataka tales, pointing to four cardinal directions. Vedica: Railings enclosing the stupa for sacred protection. Paradakshinapatha: Pathways for circumambulation by devotees. Symbolism: Early Buddhist aniconism; Buddha represented through symbols like footprints, wheels, or empty thrones rather than direct depictions. Inscriptions: Includes Ashokan Lion Capital and inscriptions in Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts. UNESCO Status: Declared a World Heritage Site in 1989.
#### 1. Question
Consider the following statements about the Sanchi Stupa:
• It was commissioned during the Satavahana period. It includes inscriptions in Brahmi and Gupta scripts. The paradakshinapatha is meant for circumambulation of the stupa by devotees.
• It was commissioned during the Satavahana period.
• It includes inscriptions in Brahmi and Gupta scripts.
• The paradakshinapatha is meant for circumambulation of the stupa by devotees.
How many of the above statements is/are incorrect?
• (a) Only one
• (b) Only two
• (c) All three
Solution: B
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Sanchi Stupa was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka during the 3rd century BCE and expanded later by the Shungas and Satavahanas.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Inscriptions are found in Brahmi and Kharosthi, not Gupta scripts.
Statement 3 is correct: The paradakshinapatha is a pathway for devotees to perform circumambulation as a form of devotion.
About Sanchi Stupa:
• Historical Significance: Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and later expanded by Shunga and Satavahana rulers.
• Architectural Features: Large hemispherical dome (Anda) symbolizing the universe. Chatras (umbrella structures) on top, signifying royalty and divine protection. Harmika (balcony) atop the dome representing the abode of the gods. Medhi stores relics and serves as the base of the stupa. Toranas: Four elaborately carved gates depicting Buddha’s life events and Jataka tales, pointing to four cardinal directions. Vedica: Railings enclosing the stupa for sacred protection. Paradakshinapatha: Pathways for circumambulation by devotees.
• Large hemispherical dome (Anda) symbolizing the universe.
• Chatras (umbrella structures) on top, signifying royalty and divine protection.
• Harmika (balcony) atop the dome representing the abode of the gods.
• Medhi stores relics and serves as the base of the stupa.
• Toranas: Four elaborately carved gates depicting Buddha’s life events and Jataka tales, pointing to four cardinal directions.
• Vedica: Railings enclosing the stupa for sacred protection.
• Paradakshinapatha: Pathways for circumambulation by devotees.
• Symbolism: Early Buddhist aniconism; Buddha represented through symbols like footprints, wheels, or empty thrones rather than direct depictions.
• Inscriptions: Includes Ashokan Lion Capital and inscriptions in Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts.
• UNESCO Status: Declared a World Heritage Site in 1989.
Solution: B
Statement 1 is incorrect: The Sanchi Stupa was commissioned by Emperor Ashoka during the 3rd century BCE and expanded later by the Shungas and Satavahanas.
Statement 2 is incorrect: Inscriptions are found in Brahmi and Kharosthi, not Gupta scripts.
Statement 3 is correct: The paradakshinapatha is a pathway for devotees to perform circumambulation as a form of devotion.
About Sanchi Stupa:
• Historical Significance: Commissioned by Emperor Ashoka in the 3rd century BCE and later expanded by Shunga and Satavahana rulers.
• Architectural Features: Large hemispherical dome (Anda) symbolizing the universe. Chatras (umbrella structures) on top, signifying royalty and divine protection. Harmika (balcony) atop the dome representing the abode of the gods. Medhi stores relics and serves as the base of the stupa. Toranas: Four elaborately carved gates depicting Buddha’s life events and Jataka tales, pointing to four cardinal directions. Vedica: Railings enclosing the stupa for sacred protection. Paradakshinapatha: Pathways for circumambulation by devotees.
• Large hemispherical dome (Anda) symbolizing the universe.
• Chatras (umbrella structures) on top, signifying royalty and divine protection.
• Harmika (balcony) atop the dome representing the abode of the gods.
• Medhi stores relics and serves as the base of the stupa.
• Toranas: Four elaborately carved gates depicting Buddha’s life events and Jataka tales, pointing to four cardinal directions.
• Vedica: Railings enclosing the stupa for sacred protection.
• Paradakshinapatha: Pathways for circumambulation by devotees.
• Symbolism: Early Buddhist aniconism; Buddha represented through symbols like footprints, wheels, or empty thrones rather than direct depictions.
• Inscriptions: Includes Ashokan Lion Capital and inscriptions in Brahmi and Kharosthi scripts.
• UNESCO Status: Declared a World Heritage Site in 1989.
• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Consider the following statements about the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme: It aims to increase horticulture yield and promote disease-free plant varieties. It provides genetically modified seeds to farmers for higher productivity. The programme is implemented under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana. Which of the above statements are correct? (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 3 only (c) 2 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 Correct Solution: A Statement 1 is correct: The programme aims to increase horticulture yield and promote disease-free and climate-resilient plant varieties. Statement 2 is incorrect: The programme does not focus on genetically modified seeds but on advanced diagnostic and tissue culture technologies for disease control. Statement 3 is incorrect: It is implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), not Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana. About Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme: Origin: Announced in Budget 2023-24 with an allocation of ₹2,200 crore for seven years until 2030. Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme is implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH). Aim: Increase horticulture yield. Promote climate-resilient and disease-free plant varieties. Enhance productivity and profitability for farmers. Features: Establishment of 10 world-class Clean Plant Centres (CPCs) for fruits like apple, walnut, almond, mango, and pomegranate. The centres will be fully funded by the Centre Advanced diagnostic labs and tissue culture technologies for disease control. Affordable access to high-quality planting material, including a robust certification and traceability system. Active engagement with women farmers and region-specific technologies. Implementing Agency: Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB) in partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Operates in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode with research organizations, agriculture universities, and private sector partners. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is correct: The programme aims to increase horticulture yield and promote disease-free and climate-resilient plant varieties. Statement 2 is incorrect: The programme does not focus on genetically modified seeds but on advanced diagnostic and tissue culture technologies for disease control. Statement 3 is incorrect: It is implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), not Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana. About Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme: Origin: Announced in Budget 2023-24 with an allocation of ₹2,200 crore for seven years until 2030. Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme is implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH). Aim: Increase horticulture yield. Promote climate-resilient and disease-free plant varieties. Enhance productivity and profitability for farmers. Features: Establishment of 10 world-class Clean Plant Centres (CPCs) for fruits like apple, walnut, almond, mango, and pomegranate. The centres will be fully funded by the Centre Advanced diagnostic labs and tissue culture technologies for disease control. Affordable access to high-quality planting material, including a robust certification and traceability system. Active engagement with women farmers and region-specific technologies. Implementing Agency: Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB) in partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Operates in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode with research organizations, agriculture universities, and private sector partners.
#### 2. Question
Consider the following statements about the Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme:
• It aims to increase horticulture yield and promote disease-free plant varieties.
• It provides genetically modified seeds to farmers for higher productivity.
• The programme is implemented under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana.
Which of the above statements are correct?
• (a) 1 only
• (b) 1 and 3 only
• (c) 2 and 3 only
• (d) 1, 2 and 3
Solution: A
• Statement 1 is correct: The programme aims to increase horticulture yield and promote disease-free and climate-resilient plant varieties.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: The programme does not focus on genetically modified seeds but on advanced diagnostic and tissue culture technologies for disease control.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: It is implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), not Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana.
About Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme:
• Origin: Announced in Budget 2023-24 with an allocation of ₹2,200 crore for seven years until 2030.
• Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme is implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
• Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme is implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
• Aim: Increase horticulture yield. Promote climate-resilient and disease-free plant varieties. Enhance productivity and profitability for farmers.
• Increase horticulture yield.
• Promote climate-resilient and disease-free plant varieties.
• Enhance productivity and profitability for farmers.
• Features: Establishment of 10 world-class Clean Plant Centres (CPCs) for fruits like apple, walnut, almond, mango, and pomegranate. The centres will be fully funded by the Centre Advanced diagnostic labs and tissue culture technologies for disease control. Affordable access to high-quality planting material, including a robust certification and traceability system. Active engagement with women farmers and region-specific technologies.
• Establishment of 10 world-class Clean Plant Centres (CPCs) for fruits like apple, walnut, almond, mango, and pomegranate.
• The centres will be fully funded by the Centre
• Advanced diagnostic labs and tissue culture technologies for disease control.
• Affordable access to high-quality planting material, including a robust certification and traceability system.
• Active engagement with women farmers and region-specific technologies.
• Implementing Agency: Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB) in partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Operates in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode with research organizations, agriculture universities, and private sector partners.
• Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB) in partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
• Operates in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode with research organizations, agriculture universities, and private sector partners.
Solution: A
• Statement 1 is correct: The programme aims to increase horticulture yield and promote disease-free and climate-resilient plant varieties.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: The programme does not focus on genetically modified seeds but on advanced diagnostic and tissue culture technologies for disease control.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: It is implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH), not Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana.
About Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme:
• Origin: Announced in Budget 2023-24 with an allocation of ₹2,200 crore for seven years until 2030.
• Ministry: Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme is implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
• Atmanirbhar Clean Plant Programme is implemented under the Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH).
• Aim: Increase horticulture yield. Promote climate-resilient and disease-free plant varieties. Enhance productivity and profitability for farmers.
• Increase horticulture yield.
• Promote climate-resilient and disease-free plant varieties.
• Enhance productivity and profitability for farmers.
• Features: Establishment of 10 world-class Clean Plant Centres (CPCs) for fruits like apple, walnut, almond, mango, and pomegranate. The centres will be fully funded by the Centre Advanced diagnostic labs and tissue culture technologies for disease control. Affordable access to high-quality planting material, including a robust certification and traceability system. Active engagement with women farmers and region-specific technologies.
• Establishment of 10 world-class Clean Plant Centres (CPCs) for fruits like apple, walnut, almond, mango, and pomegranate.
• The centres will be fully funded by the Centre
• Advanced diagnostic labs and tissue culture technologies for disease control.
• Affordable access to high-quality planting material, including a robust certification and traceability system.
• Active engagement with women farmers and region-specific technologies.
• Implementing Agency: Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB) in partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR). Operates in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode with research organizations, agriculture universities, and private sector partners.
• Anchored by the National Horticulture Board (NHB) in partnership with the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR).
• Operates in Public-Private Partnership (PPP) mode with research organizations, agriculture universities, and private sector partners.
• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Which of the following rivers flows through Syria and is a key water resource? a) Danube River b) Jordan River c) Indus River d) Euphrates River Correct Solution: D The Euphrates River is a major water resource in Syria, flowing through key regions like Raqqa and Dayr az Zawr. It is part of the Tigris-Euphrates River system and plays a critical role in agriculture and hydroelectric power in the region. Incorrect Solution: D The Euphrates River is a major water resource in Syria, flowing through key regions like Raqqa and Dayr az Zawr. It is part of the Tigris-Euphrates River system and plays a critical role in agriculture and hydroelectric power in the region.
#### 3. Question
Which of the following rivers flows through Syria and is a key water resource?
• a) Danube River
• b) Jordan River
• c) Indus River
• d) Euphrates River
Solution: D
The Euphrates River is a major water resource in Syria, flowing through key regions like Raqqa and Dayr az Zawr. It is part of the Tigris-Euphrates River system and plays a critical role in agriculture and hydroelectric power in the region.
Solution: D
The Euphrates River is a major water resource in Syria, flowing through key regions like Raqqa and Dayr az Zawr. It is part of the Tigris-Euphrates River system and plays a critical role in agriculture and hydroelectric power in the region.
• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements about super volcanoes: They form vast depressions in the Earth’s crust called calderas. Super volcanoes are known for frequent, low-intensity eruptions. Eruptions from super volcanoes can cause global climatic changes. Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution: A Statement 1 is correct: Super volcanoes form calderas, large depressions in the Earth’s crust. Statement 2 is incorrect: Super volcanoes are characterized by ‘infrequent but catastrophic eruptions’, not frequent, low-intensity ones. Statement 3 is correct: The vast amounts of material ejected during a super volcano eruption can lead to global climatic changes, such as volcanic winters caused by ash blocking sunlight. Incorrect Solution: A Statement 1 is correct: Super volcanoes form calderas, large depressions in the Earth’s crust. Statement 2 is incorrect: Super volcanoes are characterized by ‘infrequent but catastrophic eruptions’, not frequent, low-intensity ones. Statement 3 is correct: The vast amounts of material ejected during a super volcano eruption can lead to global climatic changes, such as volcanic winters caused by ash blocking sunlight.
#### 4. Question
Consider the following statements about super volcanoes:
• They form vast depressions in the Earth’s crust called calderas.
• Super volcanoes are known for frequent, low-intensity eruptions.
• Eruptions from super volcanoes can cause global climatic changes.
Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?
• a) Only one
• b) Only two
• c) All three
Solution: A
• Statement 1 is correct: Super volcanoes form calderas, large depressions in the Earth’s crust.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: Super volcanoes are characterized by ‘infrequent but catastrophic eruptions’, not frequent, low-intensity ones.
• Statement 3 is correct: The vast amounts of material ejected during a super volcano eruption can lead to global climatic changes, such as volcanic winters caused by ash blocking sunlight.
Solution: A
• Statement 1 is correct: Super volcanoes form calderas, large depressions in the Earth’s crust.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: Super volcanoes are characterized by ‘infrequent but catastrophic eruptions’, not frequent, low-intensity ones.
• Statement 3 is correct: The vast amounts of material ejected during a super volcano eruption can lead to global climatic changes, such as volcanic winters caused by ash blocking sunlight.
• Question 5 of 5 5. Question The Buland Darwaza at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah is a blend of which two architectural styles? a) Mughal and Persian b) Rajput and Buddhist c) Hindu and Islamic d) Indo-Gothic and Islamic Correct Solution: c) About Ajmer Sharif Dargah: Who Built It: The mausoleum’s earliest structure was built in the 15th century by the Khalji rulers of Malwa. Further expansions were carried out by Mughal emperors like Akbar and Humayun. Location: Situated in Ajmer, Rajasthan, at the heart of the city’s historical and spiritual landscape. Features: Buland Darwaza: Constructed by Sultan Mahmud Khan Khalji, showcasing a mix of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. White Marble Dome: Added during Humayun’s reign in 1532. Akbari Masjid: Built by Akbar in the 1570s, enhancing the shrine’s prominence. Historical Significance: The dargah became a spiritual refuge for people of all faiths under Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s philosophy of inclusivity. The site reflects Mughal patronage and syncretic cultural heritage. Incorrect Solution: c) About Ajmer Sharif Dargah: Who Built It: The mausoleum’s earliest structure was built in the 15th century by the Khalji rulers of Malwa. Further expansions were carried out by Mughal emperors like Akbar and Humayun. Location: Situated in Ajmer, Rajasthan, at the heart of the city’s historical and spiritual landscape. Features: Buland Darwaza: Constructed by Sultan Mahmud Khan Khalji, showcasing a mix of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. White Marble Dome: Added during Humayun’s reign in 1532. Akbari Masjid: Built by Akbar in the 1570s, enhancing the shrine’s prominence. Historical Significance: The dargah became a spiritual refuge for people of all faiths under Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s philosophy of inclusivity. The site reflects Mughal patronage and syncretic cultural heritage.
#### 5. Question
The Buland Darwaza at the Ajmer Sharif Dargah is a blend of which two architectural styles?
• a) Mughal and Persian
• b) Rajput and Buddhist
• c) Hindu and Islamic
• d) Indo-Gothic and Islamic
Solution: c)
About Ajmer Sharif Dargah:
• Who Built It: The mausoleum’s earliest structure was built in the 15th century by the Khalji rulers of Malwa. Further expansions were carried out by Mughal emperors like Akbar and Humayun.
• Location: Situated in Ajmer, Rajasthan, at the heart of the city’s historical and spiritual landscape.
• Features: Buland Darwaza: Constructed by Sultan Mahmud Khan Khalji, showcasing a mix of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. White Marble Dome: Added during Humayun’s reign in 1532. Akbari Masjid: Built by Akbar in the 1570s, enhancing the shrine’s prominence.
• Buland Darwaza: Constructed by Sultan Mahmud Khan Khalji, showcasing a mix of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
• White Marble Dome: Added during Humayun’s reign in 1532.
• Akbari Masjid: Built by Akbar in the 1570s, enhancing the shrine’s prominence.
• Historical Significance: The dargah became a spiritual refuge for people of all faiths under Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s philosophy of inclusivity. The site reflects Mughal patronage and syncretic cultural heritage.
• The dargah became a spiritual refuge for people of all faiths under Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s philosophy of inclusivity.
• The site reflects Mughal patronage and syncretic cultural heritage.
Solution: c)
About Ajmer Sharif Dargah:
• Who Built It: The mausoleum’s earliest structure was built in the 15th century by the Khalji rulers of Malwa. Further expansions were carried out by Mughal emperors like Akbar and Humayun.
• Location: Situated in Ajmer, Rajasthan, at the heart of the city’s historical and spiritual landscape.
• Features: Buland Darwaza: Constructed by Sultan Mahmud Khan Khalji, showcasing a mix of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles. White Marble Dome: Added during Humayun’s reign in 1532. Akbari Masjid: Built by Akbar in the 1570s, enhancing the shrine’s prominence.
• Buland Darwaza: Constructed by Sultan Mahmud Khan Khalji, showcasing a mix of Hindu and Islamic architectural styles.
• White Marble Dome: Added during Humayun’s reign in 1532.
• Akbari Masjid: Built by Akbar in the 1570s, enhancing the shrine’s prominence.
• Historical Significance: The dargah became a spiritual refuge for people of all faiths under Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s philosophy of inclusivity. The site reflects Mughal patronage and syncretic cultural heritage.
• The dargah became a spiritual refuge for people of all faiths under Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti’s philosophy of inclusivity.
• The site reflects Mughal patronage and syncretic cultural heritage.
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