UPSC Insta–DART (Daily Aptitude and Reasoning Test) 2 Sep 2025

The rapid expansion of satellite launches, particularly by private companies, has increased the amount of debris orbiting Earth. Disused satellites, rocket stages, and collision fragments threaten active spacecraft and the International Space Station. While global treaties like the Outer Space Treaty set broad principles, they lack binding enforcement mechanisms for debris mitigation. Individual nations have developed guidelines, but their voluntary nature limits effectiveness. Without coordinated international governance, the risk of cascading collisions—known as the Kessler Syndrome—could render key orbital zones unusable, disrupting navigation, communication, and climate monitoring systems. The challenge lies in balancing commercial space growth with stringent debris management, ensuring space remains a safe and sustainable domain for all.

In the context of the above passage, what is the central paradox that the passage highlights?

With reference to the above passage, the following assumptions have been made:

1. Voluntary national guidelines are insufficient to address the global challenge of space debris.
2. The absence of binding international rules increases the likelihood of large-scale orbital collisions.
3. Limiting private satellite launches is the only solution to space debris management.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

In an increasingly digitized world, personal data has emerged as both a valuable asset and a potential liability. The convenience of online services often masks the extent to which individuals unknowingly trade privacy for accessibility. While regulatory frameworks such as data protection laws seek to safeguard users, their effectiveness is hampered by inconsistent enforcement and opaque corporate practices. Over-reliance on privacy policies—dense and seldom read—places an unrealistic burden on individuals to self-protect in a highly technical domain. Data breaches, unauthorized profiling, and targeted manipulation highlight that responsibility cannot rest solely with end-users. Effective digital privacy safeguards demand a combination of robust legal standards, transparent corporate accountability, and informed public participation to ensure technology serves democratic and ethical ends rather than exploiting vulnerabilities.

Based on the passage, consider the following assumptions:

1. Sole reliance on individual vigilance is inadequate for ensuring comprehensive digital privacy protection.
2. The primary obstacle to safeguarding personal data is the unwillingness of individuals to read privacy policies.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

Which one of the following statements best reflects the central idea of the above passage?

The circumference of a circle and the perimeter of a rectangle are in the ratio of π : 2. Find the

ratio of their areas if the radius of the circle equals one of the sides of the rectangle.