UPSC Editorials Quiz : 17 January 2026

Solution: A

Option a is correct: Quantum teleportation relies on quantum entanglement, where the quantum state of one particle is instantaneously transferred to another distant particle without any physical movement.

Option b is incorrect: Quantum teleportation does not transfer physical matter but only quantum states (information about a quantum system).

Option c is incorrect: There is no need to convert classical data into quantum data, as teleportation involves direct state transfer rather than conversion.

Option d is incorrect: Quantum teleportation can be performed at non-zero temperatures but requires isolation from environmental decoherence.

• What is Quantum Teleportation?
  • A quantum phenomenon where thestate of a particle is transmitted instantly to another distant particle using quantum entanglement, without physical transfer.
  • Used in quantum computing and secure quantum communication.
• How It Works?
  • Quantum Entanglement:Two particles become interlinked, so changes in one instantly reflect in the other, even at large distances.
  • Quantum State Transfer:Instead of moving physical qubits, their state is transferred across a network link, enabling distributed computing.
  • Logical Gate Teleportation:Researchers teleported quantum gates (fundamental computational components) instead of individual qubits, enhancing scalability.
• Key Features of Quantum Teleportation:
  • Instantaneous State Transfer:Allows faster, more secure quantum communication.
  • No Physical Movement Required:Eliminates information loss or decoherence during transfer.
  • Enhances Distributed Computing:Enables linking small quantum processors into large-scale quantum networks.
  • High Computational Speed:Reduces bottlenecks, making quantum computing scalable and efficient.
  • Potential for Quantum Internet:Opens pathways for global quantum networks with ultra-secure data transmission.

Solution: D

Statement-I is incorrect: A repo rate reduction usually increases inflation by boosting borrowing and spending.

Statement-II is correct: Lower repo rates reduce borrowing costs, leading to higher demand, which can increase inflation.

• What is Repo Rate?
  • The repo rate is the interest rate at which the RBI lends money to commercial banks for short-term needs. It is a key monetary policy tool used to control inflation, manage liquidity, and influence economic growth.
• How Does It Work?
  • When the RBIlowers the repo rate, borrowing costs for banks decrease, enabling them to offer loans at lower interest rates to consumers and businesses.
  • Conversely, an increase in the repo rate makes borrowing expensive, curbing excessive spending and controlling inflation.
• Impact of Repo Rate Reductionon the Economy:
  • Cheaper Loans:A lower repo rate reduces interest rates on loans, making home, vehicle, and personal loans more affordable.
  • Boost to Spending and Investment:Lower borrowing costs encourage individuals and businesses to spend and invest, stimulating economic activity.
  • Job Creation:Increased investment and spending can lead to higher employment opportunities.
  • Inflation Management:While a rate cut can spur growth, it may also risk higher inflation if not managed carefully.
  • Global Alignment:The rate cut aligns India with global trends, where many central banks have adopted accommodative monetary policies to support growth.

Solution: D

Option a is incorrect: Under Article 239AA(3)(c), the LG can reserve bills for Presidential consideration.

Option b is incorrect: The LG has discretionary powers to override the Chief Minister’s decisions, particularly in cases where there is a conflict between the Delhi Government and the Centre.

Option c is incorrect: The LG appoints the Chief Minister and other ministers on the President’s behalf.

Option d is correct: The LG cannot dissolve the Delhi Assembly on the CM’s advice. Unlike full-fledged states where Governors dissolve the Assembly on the Chief Minister’s recommendation, in Delhi, such a decision rests with the President.

Solution: C

The ICC does not have universal jurisdiction; it can only prosecute individuals from member states or cases referred to it by the UN Security Council. While it focuses on serious international crimes (genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes of aggression), it does not primarily function as a human rights enforcement body.

About International Criminal Court (ICC):

• Established: It was established in 2002 under the Rome Statute.
• Headquarters: The Hague, Netherlands
• Jurisdiction: Prosecutes individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity, war crimes, and crimes of aggression
• Members: 125 countries; major non-members include the U.S., China, Russia, India, and Israel

Working Procedure:

• Referral Mechanisms: Cases can be referred by member states, the UN Security Council, or initiated by the ICC Prosecutor
• Complementarity Principle: Acts only when national courts are unwilling or unable to prosecute
• Investigation & Trial Process:
  • The Office of the Prosecutor (OTP) examines referrals, gathers evidence, and initiates prosecutions
  • Judicial Divisions oversee pre-trial, trial, and appeals proceedings
  • Registry handles administrative functions

Functions & Powers:

• Prosecutes individuals for grave international crimes.
• Issues arrest warrants for those responsible for human rights violations.
• Cooperates with nations and organizations for legal assistance and enforcement.
• Ensures justice when national courts fail to act.

Solution: C

The sanctuary is located along the Chambal River in Madhya Pradesh, making statement 1 correct. The Chaturbhuj Nala rock shelters contain prehistoric cave paintings, depicting hunting scenes and early human life, making statement 3 correct. However, Gandhi Sagar is not the only Important Bird and Biodiversity Area (IBA) in India; there are several others, making statement 2 incorrect.