UPSC Current Affairs Quiz : 6 October 2025

Solution: B

The Gupta temples are some of the earliest surviving examples of structured temple architecture in India, marking a transition from rock-cut caves to free-standing temples.

• Statement 1 is incorrect: Gupta temples primarily followed the Nagara style of architecture, which is characterized by curvilinear shikharas (towers), square sanctums (garbhagriha), and axial alignment. The Dravidian style, on the other hand, belongs to South India and is associated with large temple complexes, towering gopurams, and intricate pillared halls, which were not typical of Gupta temples.
• Statement 2 is correct: Gupta temples are renowned for their intricate carvings, shikharas, and artistic excellence. This period is often referred to as the “Golden Age” of Indian art and architecture, as temples like Dashavatara Temple (Deogarh) and Parvati Temple (Nachna Kuthara) showcase highly refined sculptures and elaborate relief work.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: Unlike later temple constructions, Gupta temples were primarily built using brick and stone. While some sandstone was used, granite was not the primary material, as it was more commonly associated with Dravidian temple architecture in the South.

Solution: D

What is Antimatter?

Antimatter is a type of matter composed of antiparticles, which have the same mass as ordinary matter particles but possess opposite electric charges. For example, the antimatter counterpart of an electron (which has a negative charge) is the positron, which has the same mass as an electron but a positive charge. Similarly, the antiproton is the antimatter equivalent of a proton, having the same mass but an opposite, negative charge.

Example:

• Matter: A hydrogen atom is made of one proton (positively charged) and one electron (negatively charged).
• Antimatter: The antimatter version, antihydrogen, consists of one antiproton (negatively charged) and one positron (positively charged).

Difference from Matter:

The key difference between matter and antimatter lies in the charges of their particles. When matter and antimatter come into contact, they annihilate each other, releasing energy in the process. This process is governed by the same fundamental forces, but the charge reversal leads to the annihilation phenomenon.

Despite equal amounts of matter and antimatter being produced at the universe’s birth, matter dominates today. Scientists are still exploring why this imbalance occurred.

Solution: B

Statement 1 is correct as A1 beta-casein is found mainly in cow breeds from northern Europe, such as Holstein and Friesian.

Statement 2 is incorrect because A2 milk is distinct because it contains only the A2 variant of beta-casein, not both A1 and A2.

Statement 3 is correct as A2 beta-casein is found in breeds like Guernsey and Jersey cows.

Solution: C

The mRNA vaccines carry genetic instructions in the form of mRNA, which does not integrate into the host genome but rather serves as a template for cells to produce specific viral proteins, such as the spike protein of the coronavirus. These proteins are then displayed on the cell surface, triggering the immune system to produce antibodies and activate T cells, which provide immunity against the virus.

Solution: B

Statement 1 is correct because the influx of freshwater from melting Arctic ice can disrupt the thermohaline circulation, which drives global ocean currents and regulates climate patterns.

Statement 2 is also correct, as the melting of permafrost releases methane, a powerful greenhouse gas that significantly contributes to global warming.

Statement 3 is incorrect because the melting of Antarctic ice, especially from its vast ice sheets, has a profound impact on global sea levels, potentially leading to significant sea level rise.

Solution: B

Statement 1 is correct because the elongated tortoise is native to Southeast Asia and is not commonly found in India.

Statement 2 is also correct, as the species is listed as “Critically Endangered” on the IUCN Red List due to severe population declines caused by habitat destruction and illegal wildlife trade.

However, statement 3 is incorrect, as the tortoise was spotted in the Damdama area in the Aravallis, not Sultanpur National Park.

Solution: B

Statement 1 is correct as amphibious operations require coordination between land, naval, and, in many cases, air forces to project military power from the sea onto land.

Statement 3 is also correct, as the Indian Armed Forces have developed an Amphibious Operations Doctrine that provides guidance for conducting such operations, especially in the strategically vital Indian Ocean Region.

However, statement 2 is incorrect because amphibious operations can be conducted both during wartime and peacekeeping missions.

Solution: D

• Statement 1 is correct – The vacuum-sealed tube minimizes air drag, allowing high-speed travel.
• Statement 2 is correct – While it has fewer mechanical components than rail networks, track maintenance is still required for safety.
• Statement 3 is correct – Magnetic levitation (maglev) eliminates ground friction, enabling smoother travel.

What is Hyperloop Technology?

• Hyperloop is an ultra-high-speed transportation system using magnetic levitation (maglev) and near-vacuum tubes for travel at speeds up to 1,220 km/h.
• Working Mechanism:
  • Uses low-pressure tubes with built-in vacuums to reduce air resistance.
  • Magnetic levitation allows pods to hover, reducing friction.
  • Electromagnetic propulsion drives the pod forward.
• Key Features:
  • Energy-efficient and low emissions transportation.
  • Faster than air travel on shorter routes.
  • Reduces road congestion and noise pollution.
• Origin:
  • Concept proposed by Elon Musk in 2013 through the Hyperloop Alpha white paper.
  • Developed as open-source technology for research worldwide.

Solution: B

• Siddha medicine is one of the oldest traditional systems of healing, primarily practiced in South India. It is deeply rooted in the concept that human beings are made up of five basic elements—earth, water, fire, air, and ether—and maintaining the balance among these is essential for health.
• Statement 1 is correct, as this elemental theory forms the core of Siddha diagnostics and therapeutics.
• Statement 2 is incorrect because while herbs are extensively used, Siddha medicine also utilizes a wide range of metals, minerals, and animal products—processed carefully through traditional purification methods—to enhance efficacy and longevity of treatments.
• Statement 3 is also incorrect because Siddha is a holistic system; it addresses not just physical illnesses but also emphasizes mental and spiritual well-being, aiming for a balanced lifestyle that integrates yoga and meditation practices.

Solution: A

• Green hydrogen refers to hydrogen produced using electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources like solar and wind. This process splits water into hydrogen and oxygen without releasing greenhouse gases, making it an eco-friendly alternative to traditional hydrogen production methods.
• Statement 1 is correct, as the clean production process is central to green hydrogen.
• Statement 2 is also correct, as green hydrogen significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to grey hydrogen, which is typically derived from natural gas and releases substantial CO₂ emissions—around 10 kg of CO₂ per kg of hydrogen—while green hydrogen emissions can be as low as 1–2 kg or even negligible, depending on the energy source.
• Statement 3 is incorrect because the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is not under the Ministry of New & Renewable Energy but rather under the Ministry of Power. The MNRE plays a key role in renewable energy initiatives, but BEE’s administrative control lies elsewhere.