UPSC Editorials Quiz : 7 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 Consider the following statements: The addition of the word “Secular” to the Preamble through the 42nd Amendment was the first time the concept was introduced into the constitutional framework. The Minerva Mills (1980) case invalidated the insertion of “socialist” and “secular” into the Preamble. The Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati (1973) case identified ‘Fraternity’ as part of the ‘basic structure’ of the Constitution. 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 concept of secularism was already inherent in the Constitution, particularly in the fundamental rights ensuring freedom of religion (Articles 25-28). As the Supreme Court noted in the St. Xavier’s College case, the 42nd Amendment only made explicit what was already implicit. Statement 2 is incorrect. The Minerva Mills (1980) case upheld the constitutional validity of the 42nd Amendment’s insertion of “socialist” and “secular” into the Preamble, stating that these additions simply clarified and reinforced the existing constitutional philosophy. Statement 3 is incorrect. While the Kesavananda Bharati case established the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, it specifically identified features like secularism, federalism, and judicial review. While fraternity is a core constitutional value, it was in later judgments, such as the S.R. Bommai case, that the scope of the basic structure was further elaborated. ‘Fraternity’ has not been as explicitly and consistently cited as a ‘basic feature’ in the same way as secularism or judicial review in landmark cases. The most prominent feature identified in Kesavananda Bharati related to the Preamble was secularism. Incorrect Solution: D Statement 1 is incorrect. The concept of secularism was already inherent in the Constitution, particularly in the fundamental rights ensuring freedom of religion (Articles 25-28). As the Supreme Court noted in the St. Xavier’s College case, the 42nd Amendment only made explicit what was already implicit. Statement 2 is incorrect. The Minerva Mills (1980) case upheld the constitutional validity of the 42nd Amendment’s insertion of “socialist” and “secular” into the Preamble, stating that these additions simply clarified and reinforced the existing constitutional philosophy. Statement 3 is incorrect. While the Kesavananda Bharati case established the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, it specifically identified features like secularism, federalism, and judicial review. While fraternity is a core constitutional value, it was in later judgments, such as the S.R. Bommai case, that the scope of the basic structure was further elaborated. ‘Fraternity’ has not been as explicitly and consistently cited as a ‘basic feature’ in the same way as secularism or judicial review in landmark cases. The most prominent feature identified in Kesavananda Bharati related to the Preamble was secularism.

#### 1. Question

Consider the following statements:

• The addition of the word “Secular” to the Preamble through the 42nd Amendment was the first time the concept was introduced into the constitutional framework.

• The Minerva Mills (1980) case invalidated the insertion of “socialist” and “secular” into the Preamble.

• The Supreme Court in the Kesavananda Bharati (1973) case identified ‘Fraternity’ as part of the ‘basic structure’ of the Constitution.

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 concept of secularism was already inherent in the Constitution, particularly in the fundamental rights ensuring freedom of religion (Articles 25-28). As the Supreme Court noted in the St. Xavier’s College case, the 42nd Amendment only made explicit what was already implicit.

• Statement 2 is incorrect. The Minerva Mills (1980) case upheld the constitutional validity of the 42nd Amendment’s insertion of “socialist” and “secular” into the Preamble, stating that these additions simply clarified and reinforced the existing constitutional philosophy.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. While the Kesavananda Bharati case established the ‘basic structure’ doctrine, it specifically identified features like secularism, federalism, and judicial review. While fraternity is a core constitutional value, it was in later judgments, such as the S.R. Bommai case, that the scope of the basic structure was further elaborated. ‘Fraternity’ has not been as explicitly and consistently cited as a ‘basic feature’ in the same way as secularism or judicial review in landmark cases. The most prominent feature identified in Kesavananda Bharati related to the Preamble was secularism.

Solution: D

• Question 2 of 5 2. Question Match the following lists and select the correct answer using the code given below: List-I (Type of Predatory Pricing) List-II (Description) A. Direct Predation 1. Using profits from a profitable market to sustain losses in another market B. Cross-subsidisation 2. Offering lower prices to a specific group of customers to stifle competition C. Discriminatory Pricing 3. Selling a product below its production cost to drive out rivals Select the correct answer code: (a) A-3, B-2, C-1 (b) A-1, B-3, C-2 (c) A-3, B-1, C-2 (d) A-2, B-1, C-3 Correct Solution: C Direct Predation (A) is the classic form of predatory pricing. It involves a dominant firm setting the price of a product or service below its cost of production. This aggressive, loss-making strategy is aimed squarely at forcing competitors who cannot sustain similar losses to exit the market. This correctly matches with description 3. Cross-subsidisation (B) is a more nuanced predatory tactic. A multi-product firm uses high profits from one business vertical or geographical market, where it faces little competition, to fund the losses incurred from selling another product at artificially low prices in a competitive market. This correctly pairs with description 1. Discriminatory Pricing (C) in a predatory context involves a dominant firm targeting specific customer segments or geographic areas with below-cost prices. This is done to selectively eliminate smaller, regional competitors or prevent new entrants in those specific markets, without having to lower prices across the board. This matches with description 2. Incorrect Solution: C Direct Predation (A) is the classic form of predatory pricing. It involves a dominant firm setting the price of a product or service below its cost of production. This aggressive, loss-making strategy is aimed squarely at forcing competitors who cannot sustain similar losses to exit the market. This correctly matches with description 3. Cross-subsidisation (B) is a more nuanced predatory tactic. A multi-product firm uses high profits from one business vertical or geographical market, where it faces little competition, to fund the losses incurred from selling another product at artificially low prices in a competitive market. This correctly pairs with description 1. Discriminatory Pricing (C) in a predatory context involves a dominant firm targeting specific customer segments or geographic areas with below-cost prices. This is done to selectively eliminate smaller, regional competitors or prevent new entrants in those specific markets, without having to lower prices across the board. This matches with description 2.

#### 2. Question

Match the following lists and select the correct answer using the code given below:

List-I (Type of Predatory Pricing) | List-II (Description)

A. Direct Predation | 1. Using profits from a profitable market to sustain losses in another market

B. Cross-subsidisation | 2. Offering lower prices to a specific group of customers to stifle competition

C. Discriminatory Pricing | 3. Selling a product below its production cost to drive out rivals

Select the correct answer code:

• (a) A-3, B-2, C-1

• (b) A-1, B-3, C-2

• (c) A-3, B-1, C-2

• (d) A-2, B-1, C-3

Solution: C

• Direct Predation (A) is the classic form of predatory pricing. It involves a dominant firm setting the price of a product or service below its cost of production. This aggressive, loss-making strategy is aimed squarely at forcing competitors who cannot sustain similar losses to exit the market. This correctly matches with description 3.

• Cross-subsidisation (B) is a more nuanced predatory tactic. A multi-product firm uses high profits from one business vertical or geographical market, where it faces little competition, to fund the losses incurred from selling another product at artificially low prices in a competitive market. This correctly pairs with description 1.

Discriminatory Pricing (C) in a predatory context involves a dominant firm targeting specific customer segments or geographic areas with below-cost prices. This is done to selectively eliminate smaller, regional competitors or prevent new entrants in those specific markets, without having to lower prices across the board. This matches with description 2.

Solution: C

• Question 3 of 5 3. Question Consider the following statements with respect to the ‘Vigyan Dhara’ scheme: It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme implemented in partnership with state governments. One of its stated objectives is to bring gender parity in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) through focused interventions. The research and development component of the scheme is mandated to be aligned with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) All three (d) None Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect. Vigyan Dhara is a unified central sector scheme. In a central sector scheme, the funding is provided 100% by the Union government, and it is implemented by the central machinery. This is distinct from a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, where funding is shared between the Centre and the States in a specific ratio. Statement 2 is correct. Promoting gender equality is an explicit and key objective of the Vigyan Dhara scheme. The scheme documents state that “Focused interventions will be taken up to enhance the participation of women in the field of Science and Technology (S&T) with the ultimate goal of bringing gender parity in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI)”. Statement 3 is correct. The scheme is designed to integrate with the new apex research body in the country. The guidelines specify that the research and development component of the scheme will be aligned in line with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). This ensures that the research funded under Vigyan Dhara adheres to the national priorities and standards set by the ANRF, promoting a cohesive and strategic national research ecosystem. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect. Vigyan Dhara is a unified central sector scheme. In a central sector scheme, the funding is provided 100% by the Union government, and it is implemented by the central machinery. This is distinct from a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, where funding is shared between the Centre and the States in a specific ratio. Statement 2 is correct. Promoting gender equality is an explicit and key objective of the Vigyan Dhara scheme. The scheme documents state that “Focused interventions will be taken up to enhance the participation of women in the field of Science and Technology (S&T) with the ultimate goal of bringing gender parity in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI)”. Statement 3 is correct. The scheme is designed to integrate with the new apex research body in the country. The guidelines specify that the research and development component of the scheme will be aligned in line with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). This ensures that the research funded under Vigyan Dhara adheres to the national priorities and standards set by the ANRF, promoting a cohesive and strategic national research ecosystem.

#### 3. Question

Consider the following statements with respect to the ‘Vigyan Dhara’ scheme:

• It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme implemented in partnership with state governments.

• One of its stated objectives is to bring gender parity in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI) through focused interventions.

• The research and development component of the scheme is mandated to be aligned with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF).

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) All three

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is incorrect. Vigyan Dhara is a unified central sector scheme. In a central sector scheme, the funding is provided 100% by the Union government, and it is implemented by the central machinery. This is distinct from a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, where funding is shared between the Centre and the States in a specific ratio.

• Statement 2 is correct. Promoting gender equality is an explicit and key objective of the Vigyan Dhara scheme. The scheme documents state that “Focused interventions will be taken up to enhance the participation of women in the field of Science and Technology (S&T) with the ultimate goal of bringing gender parity in Science, Technology and Innovation (STI)”.

Statement 3 is correct. The scheme is designed to integrate with the new apex research body in the country. The guidelines specify that the research and development component of the scheme will be aligned in line with the Anusandhan National Research Foundation (ANRF). This ensures that the research funded under Vigyan Dhara adheres to the national priorities and standards set by the ANRF, promoting a cohesive and strategic national research ecosystem.

Solution: B

• Question 4 of 5 4. Question Consider the following pairs: Scheme/Initiative Nodal Ministry 1. PM-JANMAN Ministry of Health and Family Welfare 2. PM-Vishwakarma Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship 3. PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana Ministry of Power 4. Mission LiFE Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change How many of the above pairs are correctly matched? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Solution: A Pair 1 is incorrect. The Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) is a comprehensive mission focused on the socio-economic welfare of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). It is spearheaded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Pair 2 is incorrect. The PM Vishwakarma scheme is designed to provide end-to-end support to traditional artisans and craftspeople (Vishwakarmas). While it involves a significant skilling component, its nodal ministry is the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), not the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. The latter is a key partner, but MSME is the nodal agency. Pair 3 is incorrect. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana aims to promote rooftop solar installations in one crore households. This scheme falls under the purview of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), not the Ministry of Power. The Ministry of Power deals with the broader electricity grid and distribution, while MNRE is responsible for promoting renewable energy sources. Pair 4 is correctly matched. Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) is a global mass movement conceptualized by India to nudge individual and community action to protect and preserve the environment. It is led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Incorrect Solution: A Pair 1 is incorrect. The Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) is a comprehensive mission focused on the socio-economic welfare of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). It is spearheaded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs. Pair 2 is incorrect. The PM Vishwakarma scheme is designed to provide end-to-end support to traditional artisans and craftspeople (Vishwakarmas). While it involves a significant skilling component, its nodal ministry is the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), not the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. The latter is a key partner, but MSME is the nodal agency. Pair 3 is incorrect. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana aims to promote rooftop solar installations in one crore households. This scheme falls under the purview of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), not the Ministry of Power. The Ministry of Power deals with the broader electricity grid and distribution, while MNRE is responsible for promoting renewable energy sources. Pair 4 is correctly matched. Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) is a global mass movement conceptualized by India to nudge individual and community action to protect and preserve the environment. It is led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

#### 4. Question

Consider the following pairs:

Scheme/Initiative | Nodal Ministry

1.PM-JANMAN | Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
2.PM-Vishwakarma | Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
3.PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana | Ministry of Power
4.Mission LiFE | Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Solution: A

• Pair 1 is incorrect. The Pradhan Mantri Janjati Adivasi Nyaya Maha Abhiyan (PM-JANMAN) is a comprehensive mission focused on the socio-economic welfare of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). It is spearheaded by the Ministry of Tribal Affairs.

• Pair 2 is incorrect. The PM Vishwakarma scheme is designed to provide end-to-end support to traditional artisans and craftspeople (Vishwakarmas). While it involves a significant skilling component, its nodal ministry is the Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME), not the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. The latter is a key partner, but MSME is the nodal agency.

• Pair 3 is incorrect. The PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana aims to promote rooftop solar installations in one crore households. This scheme falls under the purview of the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), not the Ministry of Power. The Ministry of Power deals with the broader electricity grid and distribution, while MNRE is responsible for promoting renewable energy sources.

Pair 4 is correctly matched. Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment) is a global mass movement conceptualized by India to nudge individual and community action to protect and preserve the environment. It is led by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC).

Solution: A

• Question 5 of 5 5. Question With reference to the National Sports Policy 2025, consider the following statements: The policy primarily focuses on elite training systems, leaving grassroots development to state governments. It proposes the integration of sports into the school curriculum, with a provision for activity-based assessments. The policy discourages private sector involvement, emphasizing a government-led implementation model. It aims to revive traditional Indian games to preserve cultural heritage. How many of the above statements is/are correct? (a) Only one (b) Only two (c) Only three (d) All four Correct Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect. The policy emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on both grassroots-to-podium athlete development. It does not relegate grassroots development solely to states but promotes a collaborative framework. Statement 2 is correct. A key feature of the policy is its alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which includes integrating sports into the school curriculum, employing trained PE instructors, and using activity-based assessments to foster a sports culture from a young age. Statement 3 is incorrect. The policy actively promotes a multi-stakeholder approach, encouraging private participation through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding, and support for sports startups. It does not advocate for a purely government-led model. Statement 4 is correct. The policy includes a specific focus on reviving traditional Indian games like Mallakhamb and Kho-Kho. This initiative is aimed at promoting cultural heritage and diversifying the sporting landscape in the country. Incorrect Solution: B Statement 1 is incorrect. The policy emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on both grassroots-to-podium athlete development. It does not relegate grassroots development solely to states but promotes a collaborative framework. Statement 2 is correct. A key feature of the policy is its alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which includes integrating sports into the school curriculum, employing trained PE instructors, and using activity-based assessments to foster a sports culture from a young age. Statement 3 is incorrect. The policy actively promotes a multi-stakeholder approach, encouraging private participation through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding, and support for sports startups. It does not advocate for a purely government-led model. Statement 4 is correct. The policy includes a specific focus on reviving traditional Indian games like Mallakhamb and Kho-Kho. This initiative is aimed at promoting cultural heritage and diversifying the sporting landscape in the country.

#### 5. Question

With reference to the National Sports Policy 2025, consider the following statements:

• The policy primarily focuses on elite training systems, leaving grassroots development to state governments.

• It proposes the integration of sports into the school curriculum, with a provision for activity-based assessments.

• The policy discourages private sector involvement, emphasizing a government-led implementation model.

• It aims to revive traditional Indian games to preserve cultural heritage.

How many of the above statements is/are correct?

• (a) Only one

• (b) Only two

• (c) Only three

• (d) All four

Solution: B

• Statement 1 is incorrect. The policy emphasizes a holistic approach, focusing on both grassroots-to-podium athlete development. It does not relegate grassroots development solely to states but promotes a collaborative framework.

• Statement 2 is correct. A key feature of the policy is its alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which includes integrating sports into the school curriculum, employing trained PE instructors, and using activity-based assessments to foster a sports culture from a young age.

• Statement 3 is incorrect. The policy actively promotes a multi-stakeholder approach, encouraging private participation through Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) funding, and support for sports startups. It does not advocate for a purely government-led model.

• Statement 4 is correct. The policy includes a specific focus on reviving traditional Indian games like Mallakhamb and Kho-Kho. This initiative is aimed at promoting cultural heritage and diversifying the sporting landscape in the country.

Solution: B

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