UPSC Editorials Quiz : 7 February 2026

Introducing QUED – Questions from Editorials (UPSC Editorials Quiz) , an innovative initiative from InsightsIAS. Considering the significant number of questions in previous UPSC Prelims from editorials, practicing MCQs from this perspective can provide an extra edge. While we cover important editorials separately in our Editorial Section and SECURE Initiative, adding QUED (UPSC Editorials Quiz) to your daily MCQ practice alongside Static Quiz, Current Affairs Quiz, and InstaDART can be crucial for better performance. We recommend utilizing this initiative to enhance your preparation, with 5 MCQs posted daily at 11 am from Monday to Saturday on our website under the QUIZ menu.

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• Question 1 of 5 1. Question Consider the following statements: The “MISHTI” program targets mangrove plantation on salt-pan lands and along the coastline using a “convergence” model with various central and state schemes. Mangroves are exceptional carbon sinks, sequestering up to four times more carbon than terrestrial tropical forests, aiding in India’s “Net Zero” commitments. The “MISHTI” program aims to increase the “tangible incomes” of local communities through eco-tourism and the sustainable harvesting of marine products. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: C The MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes) programme was announced in the Union Budget with a clear focus on expanding mangrove cover along India’s coastline and on suitable degraded lands such as abandoned or low-productivity salt pans. A key design feature of the programme is its “convergence” approach, meaning it is implemented by pooling resources, expertise, and funding from multiple central and state schemes rather than functioning as a standalone project. Scientifically, mangroves are globally recognised as highly efficient blue carbon ecosystems. Their dense biomass, slow decomposition in waterlogged soils, and deep carbon burial allow them to sequester significantly more carbon per unit area than many terrestrial tropical forests—often cited as up to four times more—making them relevant to India’s long-term climate mitigation and net zero goals. Finally, the term “Tangible Incomes” in MISHTI is not symbolic; it reflects the explicit objective of linking mangrove conservation with livelihood generation. This includes promoting eco-tourism, improving fisheries and aquaculture productivity, and enabling sustainable harvesting of marine and mangrove-associated products so that local communities have direct economic incentives to protect these ecosystems. Incorrect Solution: C The MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes) programme was announced in the Union Budget with a clear focus on expanding mangrove cover along India’s coastline and on suitable degraded lands such as abandoned or low-productivity salt pans. A key design feature of the programme is its “convergence” approach, meaning it is implemented by pooling resources, expertise, and funding from multiple central and state schemes rather than functioning as a standalone project. Scientifically, mangroves are globally recognised as highly efficient blue carbon ecosystems. Their dense biomass, slow decomposition in waterlogged soils, and deep carbon burial allow them to sequester significantly more carbon per unit area than many terrestrial tropical forests—often cited as up to four times more—making them relevant to India’s long-term climate mitigation and net zero goals. Finally, the term “Tangible Incomes” in MISHTI is not symbolic; it reflects the explicit objective of linking mangrove conservation with livelihood generation. This includes promoting eco-tourism, improving fisheries and aquaculture productivity, and enabling sustainable harvesting of marine and mangrove-associated products so that local communities have direct economic incentives to protect these ecosystems.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements:

• The “MISHTI” program targets mangrove plantation on salt-pan lands and along the coastline using a “convergence” model with various central and state schemes.

• Mangroves are exceptional carbon sinks, sequestering up to four times more carbon than terrestrial tropical forests, aiding in India’s “Net Zero” commitments.

• The “MISHTI” program aims to increase the “tangible incomes” of local communities through eco-tourism and the sustainable harvesting of marine products.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: C

• The MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats & Tangible Incomes) programme was announced in the Union Budget with a clear focus on expanding mangrove cover along India’s coastline and on suitable degraded lands such as abandoned or low-productivity salt pans. A key design feature of the programme is its “convergence” approach, meaning it is implemented by pooling resources, expertise, and funding from multiple central and state schemes rather than functioning as a standalone project.

• Scientifically, mangroves are globally recognised as highly efficient blue carbon ecosystems. Their dense biomass, slow decomposition in waterlogged soils, and deep carbon burial allow them to sequester significantly more carbon per unit area than many terrestrial tropical forests—often cited as up to four times more—making them relevant to India’s long-term climate mitigation and net zero goals.

• Finally, the term “Tangible Incomes” in MISHTI is not symbolic; it reflects the explicit objective of linking mangrove conservation with livelihood generation. This includes promoting eco-tourism, improving fisheries and aquaculture productivity, and enabling sustainable harvesting of marine and mangrove-associated products so that local communities have direct economic incentives to protect these ecosystems.

Solution: C

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question With reference to the ecological characteristics of Wetlands, consider the following statements: Hydric soils are characterized by the absence of oxygen due to permanent or seasonal water saturation. Hydrophytes are specialized plant species that cannot survive in water-logged conditions. Wetlands function as ecotones, representing a sharp boundary rather than a transition zone between terrestrial and aquatic systems. How many of the above statements are correct? a) Only one b) Only two c) All three d) None Correct Solution: A Wetlands are unique ecosystems where water is the primary factor controlling the environment and the associated plant and animal life. Statement 1 is correct because hydric soils are formed under conditions of saturation, flooding, or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic (oxygen-poor) conditions in the upper part. This lack of oxygen is a defining feature that dictates the type of life these soils can support. Statement 2 is incorrect because hydrophytes are specifically adapted vegetation (like mangroves or reeds) that have evolved to thrive in water-logged or anaerobic soil conditions. They often possess specialized structures like aerenchyma (air pockets) to transport oxygen to their roots. Statement 3 is incorrect because wetlands are classic examples of ecotones. An ecotone is a transition zone or buffer area between two diverse ecosystems—in this case, dry land and deep-water aquatic systems. They do not represent a sharp “boundary” but rather a gradual blending of characteristics from both systems, which often leads to high biodiversity, a phenomenon known as the “edge effect.” Incorrect Solution: A Wetlands are unique ecosystems where water is the primary factor controlling the environment and the associated plant and animal life. Statement 1 is correct because hydric soils are formed under conditions of saturation, flooding, or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic (oxygen-poor) conditions in the upper part. This lack of oxygen is a defining feature that dictates the type of life these soils can support. Statement 2 is incorrect because hydrophytes are specifically adapted vegetation (like mangroves or reeds) that have evolved to thrive in water-logged or anaerobic soil conditions. They often possess specialized structures like aerenchyma (air pockets) to transport oxygen to their roots. Statement 3 is incorrect because wetlands are classic examples of ecotones. An ecotone is a transition zone or buffer area between two diverse ecosystems—in this case, dry land and deep-water aquatic systems. They do not represent a sharp “boundary” but rather a gradual blending of characteristics from both systems, which often leads to high biodiversity, a phenomenon known as the “edge effect.”

#### 2. Question

With reference to the ecological characteristics of Wetlands, consider the following statements:

• Hydric soils are characterized by the absence of oxygen due to permanent or seasonal water saturation.

• Hydrophytes are specialized plant species that cannot survive in water-logged conditions.

• Wetlands function as ecotones, representing a sharp boundary rather than a transition zone between terrestrial and aquatic systems.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• a) Only one

• b) Only two

• c) All three

Solution: A

• Wetlands are unique ecosystems where water is the primary factor controlling the environment and the associated plant and animal life.

• Statement 1 is correct because hydric soils are formed under conditions of saturation, flooding, or ponding long enough during the growing season to develop anaerobic (oxygen-poor) conditions in the upper part. This lack of oxygen is a defining feature that dictates the type of life these soils can support.

• Statement 2 is incorrect because hydrophytes are specifically adapted vegetation (like mangroves or reeds) that have evolved to thrive in water-logged or anaerobic soil conditions. They often possess specialized structures like aerenchyma (air pockets) to transport oxygen to their roots.

Statement 3 is incorrect because wetlands are classic examples of ecotones. An ecotone is a transition zone or buffer area between two diverse ecosystems—in this case, dry land and deep-water aquatic systems. They do not represent a sharp “boundary” but rather a gradual blending of characteristics from both systems, which often leads to high biodiversity, a phenomenon known as the “edge effect.”

Solution: A

• Wetlands are unique ecosystems where water is the primary factor controlling the environment and the associated plant and animal life.

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Regarding the ‘Biopharma SHAKTI’ (Strategic for Healthcare Advancement through Knowledge, Technology and Innovation) scheme announced in the Union Budget 2026-27, which one of the following is correct? (a) It is a purely research-oriented program with no component for industrial manufacturing. (b) The government has allocated ₹20,000 crore for the scheme to be utilized over the next three years. (c) Its primary objective is to transform India into a global hub for biopharma manufacturing over the next five years. (d) The scheme was introduced as a defensive measure against 50% U.S. tariffs recently imposed on Indian pharmaceuticals. Correct Solution: C The Biopharma SHAKTI scheme has been conceptualised as a strategic, forward-looking intervention to strengthen India’s position across the entire biopharmaceutical value chain, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing capabilities. Unlike a narrowly defined research grant programme, the scheme explicitly seeks to integrate research, innovation, scale-up, and industrial production, thereby addressing long-standing gaps between laboratory discoveries and commercial manufacturing. The objective of transforming India into a global hub for biopharma manufacturing aligns with broader national priorities such as supply-chain resilience, reduced import dependence for critical drugs and biologics, and enhanced export competitiveness. Source Incorrect Solution: C The Biopharma SHAKTI scheme has been conceptualised as a strategic, forward-looking intervention to strengthen India’s position across the entire biopharmaceutical value chain, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing capabilities. Unlike a narrowly defined research grant programme, the scheme explicitly seeks to integrate research, innovation, scale-up, and industrial production, thereby addressing long-standing gaps between laboratory discoveries and commercial manufacturing. The objective of transforming India into a global hub for biopharma manufacturing aligns with broader national priorities such as supply-chain resilience, reduced import dependence for critical drugs and biologics, and enhanced export competitiveness. Source

#### 3. Question

Regarding the ‘Biopharma SHAKTI’ (Strategic for Healthcare Advancement through Knowledge, Technology and Innovation) scheme announced in the Union Budget 2026-27, which one of the following is correct?

• (a) It is a purely research-oriented program with no component for industrial manufacturing.

• (b) The government has allocated ₹20,000 crore for the scheme to be utilized over the next three years.

• (c) Its primary objective is to transform India into a global hub for biopharma manufacturing over the next five years.

• (d) The scheme was introduced as a defensive measure against 50% U.S. tariffs recently imposed on Indian pharmaceuticals.

Solution: C

• The Biopharma SHAKTI scheme has been conceptualised as a strategic, forward-looking intervention to strengthen India’s position across the entire biopharmaceutical value chain, with a strong emphasis on manufacturing capabilities.

• Unlike a narrowly defined research grant programme, the scheme explicitly seeks to integrate research, innovation, scale-up, and industrial production, thereby addressing long-standing gaps between laboratory discoveries and commercial manufacturing.

• The objective of transforming India into a global hub for biopharma manufacturing aligns with broader national priorities such as supply-chain resilience, reduced import dependence for critical drugs and biologics, and enhanced export competitiveness.

Solution: C

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following statements regarding the ‘Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Yojana’ introduced in the Union Budget 2026-27: The scheme is a 100% centrally funded initiative aimed at providing unemployment allowance to graduates in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. It mandates the establishment of automated ‘Grain ATMs’ in every textile cluster to ensure food security for weavers. The initiative is a strategic partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) to upgrade pharmacies in the handloom sector. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect because the Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Yojana is focused on the Khadi handloom sector, providing skilling, training, and production support, not an unemployment allowance for urban graduates. Statement 2 is incorrect; while “Grain ATMs” are being piloted in Bihar to smooth ration delivery, they are not a mandatory component of the textile-focused Gram Swaraj Yojana. Statement 3 is incorrect as the WHO partnership mentioned in the budget is for the Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar and upgrading AYUSH drug testing labs, not for the Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Yojana. Source Incorrect Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect because the Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Yojana is focused on the Khadi handloom sector, providing skilling, training, and production support, not an unemployment allowance for urban graduates. Statement 2 is incorrect; while “Grain ATMs” are being piloted in Bihar to smooth ration delivery, they are not a mandatory component of the textile-focused Gram Swaraj Yojana. Statement 3 is incorrect as the WHO partnership mentioned in the budget is for the Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar and upgrading AYUSH drug testing labs, not for the Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Yojana. Source

#### 4. Question

Consider the following statements regarding the ‘Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Yojana’ introduced in the Union Budget 2026-27:

• The scheme is a 100% centrally funded initiative aimed at providing unemployment allowance to graduates in Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities.

• It mandates the establishment of automated ‘Grain ATMs’ in every textile cluster to ensure food security for weavers.

• The initiative is a strategic partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO) to upgrade pharmacies in the handloom sector.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: D

• Statement 1 is incorrect because the Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Yojana is focused on the Khadi handloom sector, providing skilling, training, and production support, not an unemployment allowance for urban graduates.

• Statement 2 is incorrect; while “Grain ATMs” are being piloted in Bihar to smooth ration delivery, they are not a mandatory component of the textile-focused Gram Swaraj Yojana.

• Statement 3 is incorrect as the WHO partnership mentioned in the budget is for the Global Traditional Medicine Centre in Jamnagar and upgrading AYUSH drug testing labs, not for the Mahatma Gandhi Gram Swaraj Yojana.

Solution: D

• Statement 2 is incorrect; while “Grain ATMs” are being piloted in Bihar to smooth ration delivery, they are not a mandatory component of the textile-focused Gram Swaraj Yojana.

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question With reference to the Chhari-Dhandh Wetland Conservation Reserve, recently designated as a Ramsar Site, consider the following statements: It is situated on the edge of the Banni grasslands in the Kutch district of Gujarat. It is a unique seasonal desert wetland that lies at the confluence of the Banni grassland and the Little Rann landscape. The site is a critical habitat for the Grey Hypocolius, a rare and globally significant winter migrant. It is the first wetland in India to be recognized as a “Conservation Reserve” under the Ramsar Convention. How many of the above statements are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Solution: C Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct. Chhari-Dhandh was officially designated as a Ramsar Site on January 31, 2026. It is located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, bordering the Banni grasslands, which are among the largest in Asia. The wetland represents a rare ecological intersection of desert, grassland, and thorn forest ecosystems. It is world-renowned among ornithologists for hosting the Grey Hypocolius, with hundreds of sightings recorded in early 2025. The site also supports over 50,000 waterbirds, including significant populations of cranes, flamingos, and pelicans. Statement 4 is incorrect: While Chhari-Dhandh was declared Gujarat’s first “Conservation Reserve” in 2008, the term “Conservation Reserve” is a domestic legal designation under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, not a category defined underthe Ramsar Convention itself. Ramsar sites are recognized based on international criteria relating to representative or unique wetland types and biodiversity. Its designation brings Gujarat’s Ramsar total to five, joining Nalsarovar, Thol, Khijadiya, and Wadhwana. Source Incorrect Solution: C Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct. Chhari-Dhandh was officially designated as a Ramsar Site on January 31, 2026. It is located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, bordering the Banni grasslands, which are among the largest in Asia. The wetland represents a rare ecological intersection of desert, grassland, and thorn forest ecosystems. It is world-renowned among ornithologists for hosting the Grey Hypocolius, with hundreds of sightings recorded in early 2025. The site also supports over 50,000 waterbirds, including significant populations of cranes, flamingos, and pelicans. Statement 4 is incorrect: While Chhari-Dhandh was declared Gujarat’s first “Conservation Reserve” in 2008, the term “Conservation Reserve” is a domestic legal designation under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, not a category defined underthe Ramsar Convention itself. Ramsar sites are recognized based on international criteria relating to representative or unique wetland types and biodiversity. Its designation brings Gujarat’s Ramsar total to five, joining Nalsarovar, Thol, Khijadiya, and Wadhwana. Source

#### 5. Question

With reference to the Chhari-Dhandh Wetland Conservation Reserve, recently designated as a Ramsar Site, consider the following statements:

• It is situated on the edge of the Banni grasslands in the Kutch district of Gujarat.

• It is a unique seasonal desert wetland that lies at the confluence of the Banni grassland and the Little Rann landscape.

• The site is a critical habitat for the Grey Hypocolius, a rare and globally significant winter migrant.

• It is the first wetland in India to be recognized as a “Conservation Reserve” under the Ramsar Convention.

How many of the above statements are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Solution: C

• Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct.

• Chhari-Dhandh was officially designated as a Ramsar Site on January 31, 2026. It is located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, bordering the Banni grasslands, which are among the largest in Asia.

• The wetland represents a rare ecological intersection of desert, grassland, and thorn forest ecosystems. It is world-renowned among ornithologists for hosting the Grey Hypocolius, with hundreds of sightings recorded in early 2025. The site also supports over 50,000 waterbirds, including significant populations of cranes, flamingos, and pelicans.

• Statement 4 is incorrect: While Chhari-Dhandh was declared Gujarat’s first “Conservation Reserve” in 2008, the term “Conservation Reserve” is a domestic legal designation under the Wildlife (Protection) Act, not a category defined underthe Ramsar Convention itself.

• Ramsar sites are recognized based on international criteria relating to representative or unique wetland types and biodiversity. Its designation brings Gujarat’s Ramsar total to five, joining Nalsarovar, Thol, Khijadiya, and Wadhwana.

Solution: C

• Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct.

• Chhari-Dhandh was officially designated as a Ramsar Site on January 31, 2026. It is located in the Kutch district of Gujarat, bordering the Banni grasslands, which are among the largest in Asia.

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