UPSC Editorials Quiz : 2 April 2026

Solution: A

• Volcanic activity significantly influences the climate through the release of aerosols and gases.
• Statement 1 is correct: Volcanic eruptions emit aerosols, primarily sulfur dioxide, which forms sulfate particles in the atmosphere. These particles reflect solar radiation, leading to temporary cooling of the Earth’s surface. For example, the eruption of Mount Pinatubo in 1991 caused global temperatures to drop for a couple of years.
• Statement 2 is also correct: While aerosols cool the surface, volcanic eruptions can release gases like water vapor and carbon dioxide into the troposphere, which can trap heat, causing a short-term localized warming effect.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: The cooling effects of volcanic aerosols are temporary, typically lasting a few years, as the aerosols eventually settle out of the atmosphere.

Solution: A

Option a is incorrect: Unlike systems with an equal division of powers (e.g., the United States), India’s federal structure is tilted in favor of the Union, particularly during emergencies or under specific circumstances, such as using Article 356.

Option b is correct: The Constitution includes provisions for amendments (Article 368) to adapt to changing dynamics in federal relationships, reflecting its flexibility.

Option c is correct: The Indian Constitution establishes a strong Union with significant authority over subjects listed in the Union List (e.g., defense, foreign affairs). This is a hallmark of India’s quasi-federal system.

Option d is correct: An independent judiciary, particularly the Supreme Court, plays a critical role in resolving disputes between the Union and states (e.g., Article 131).

Solution: C

Statement 1 is correct: Type 1 Diabetes is an autoimmune condition where the immune system attacks and destroys the insulin-producing beta cells in the pancreas, leading to little or no insulin production.

Statement 2 is correct: Type 2 Diabetes is far more common than Type 1 Diabetes. It accounts for approximately 90-95% of all diabetes cases worldwide, whereas Type 1 is less common.

Statement 3 is correct: Both Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes can cause long-term complications, such as neuropathy (nerve damage), retinopathy (eye damage), nephropathy (kidney damage), and cardiovascular diseases, if not managed properly.

Statement 4 is incorrect: Insulin therapy is not mandatory for Type 2 Diabetes. It is often managed with oral medications, lifestyle changes, and dietary modifications. Insulin may be prescribed in advanced cases or when oral therapies fail.

Solution: A

Gestational diabetes arises during pregnancy when hormonal changes cause insulin resistance, impairing the body’s ability to regulate blood glucose levels. It typically resolves after childbirth as hormone levels normalize. Statement-I correctly identifies the condition, and Statement-II provides an accurate explanation, linking the hormonal changes during pregnancy to the onset of insulin resistance.

Solution: A

Statement 2 is incorrect.

About International Maritime Organization (IMO):

• The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is a specialized UN agency focused on regulating shipping and preventing marine pollution from ships.
• Established in 1948 and operational since 1958, the IMO has 175 member states and three associate members, with headquarters in London.
• India joined in 1959.
• The IMO creates a fair, effective regulatory framework for the shipping industry and addresses legal issues like liability and international maritime traffic facilitation.