Practice the Daily UPSC Quiz by Vajiram & Ravi to increase your current affairs and concept clarity. Ideal for UPSC Prelims and Mains 2025 preparation. Stay updated, revise smarter, and track your progress.
The Daily UPSC Quiz by Vajiram & Ravi is a thoughtfully curated initiative designed to support UPSC aspirants in strengthening their current affairs knowledge and core conceptual understanding. Aligned with the UPSC Syllabus 2025, this daily quiz serves as a revision resource, helping candidates assess their preparation, revise key topics, and stay updated with relevant issues. Whether you are preparing for Prelims or sharpening your revision for Mains, consistent practice with these Daily UPSC Quiz can significantly enhance accuracy, speed, and confidence in solving exam-level questions.
UPSC Daily Quiz 8 November 2025
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The Daily UPSC Quiz by Vajiram & Ravi is a thoughtfully curated initiative designed to support UPSC aspirants in strengthening their current affairs knowledge and core conceptual understanding. Aligned with the UPSC Syllabus 2025, this daily quiz serves as a revision resource, helping candidates assess their preparation, revise key topics, and stay updated with relevant issues. Whether you are preparing for Prelims or sharpening your revision for Mains, consistent practice with these Daily UPSC Quiz can significantly enhance accuracy, speed, and confidence in solving exam-level questions
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Question 1 of 10
1. Question
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Consider the following statements regarding Christmas Island, recently seen in the news:
It is an island in the Pacific Ocean.
It is administered as an external territory of Australia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: b
Explanation:
Google plans to build a large artificial intelligence data centre on Australia’s remote Indian Ocean outpost of Christmas Island after signing a cloud deal with the Department of Defence earlier this year.
About Christmas Island:
It is an island in the Indian Ocean.
It lies about 360 km south of the island of Java and 1,400 kmnorthwest of Australia.
It is administered as an external territory of Australia.
The island is the summit of an oceanic mountain whose highest point on the island is Murray Hill, rising to 1,184 feet (361 metres) in the western part of the island.
The main settlement and chief port is at Flying Fish Cove on the northeastern part of the island.
History:
Although Europeans sighted Christmas Island in 1615, it was named for the day of its rediscovery in 1643.
The discovery of phosphate on the island in 1887 led to the UK annexing it the following year.
In 1900 Christmas Island was incorporated in the British crown colony of the Straits Settlements with its capital at Singapore.
During World War II the island was occupied by the Japanese.
In 1958 the island became an Australian territory.
Tropical rainforest covers most of Christmas Island, and fauna includes large numbers of seabirds, small reptiles, land crabs, and insects.
One of the island’s best-known animal residents is the Christmas Island red crab (Gecarcoidea natalis), whose spectacular annual emergence and migration draws large numbers of tourists.
The population includes many ethnic Chinese, a small number of people of European ancestry, and Malay labourers recruited mainly from Malaysia, Singapore, and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.
Economy:
The territory’s economy was long based almost entirely on the mining and extraction of phosphate.
With the recoverable reserves of phosphate nearly exhausted, efforts were turned toward developing tourism.
Small-scale subsistence cropping and fishing are practiced, but most food is imported.
Google plans to build a large artificial intelligence data centre on Australia’s remote Indian Ocean outpost of Christmas Island after signing a cloud deal with the Department of Defence earlier this year.
About Christmas Island:
It is an island in the Indian Ocean.
It lies about 360 km south of the island of Java and 1,400 kmnorthwest of Australia.
It is administered as an external territory of Australia.
The island is the summit of an oceanic mountain whose highest point on the island is Murray Hill, rising to 1,184 feet (361 metres) in the western part of the island.
The main settlement and chief port is at Flying Fish Cove on the northeastern part of the island.
History:
Although Europeans sighted Christmas Island in 1615, it was named for the day of its rediscovery in 1643.
The discovery of phosphate on the island in 1887 led to the UK annexing it the following year.
In 1900 Christmas Island was incorporated in the British crown colony of the Straits Settlements with its capital at Singapore.
During World War II the island was occupied by the Japanese.
In 1958 the island became an Australian territory.
Tropical rainforest covers most of Christmas Island, and fauna includes large numbers of seabirds, small reptiles, land crabs, and insects.
One of the island’s best-known animal residents is the Christmas Island red crab (Gecarcoidea natalis), whose spectacular annual emergence and migration draws large numbers of tourists.
The population includes many ethnic Chinese, a small number of people of European ancestry, and Malay labourers recruited mainly from Malaysia, Singapore, and the Cocos (Keeling) Islands.
Economy:
The territory’s economy was long based almost entirely on the mining and extraction of phosphate.
With the recoverable reserves of phosphate nearly exhausted, efforts were turned toward developing tourism.
Small-scale subsistence cropping and fishing are practiced, but most food is imported.
. Consider the following statements regarding Koraga Tribe, recently seen in the news:
They are predominantly found in Odisha and Jharkhand.
They are classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: b
Explanation:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
A groundbreaking genomic study led by researchers from Mangalore University and Yenepoya (Deemed-to-be University) has identified a distinct ancestral source in the Koraga tribe that may date back to the Indus Valley Civilisation.
About Koraga Tribe:
The Koraga is an indigenous tribal community that is basically found mainly in the Dakshina Kannada, Udupi districts of Karnataka and the Kasaragod district of Kerala state.
The Koragas are classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
As per the 2011 census, their total population is 1582, in which 778 were males and 804 females.
Language: People communicate either in their language, known as Koraga Bhasha, or in Tulu.
Culture and Economy:
The Koragas mainly depend on agriculture and forest resources for their livelihoods.
They are known for their traditional crafts, such as basket-making, and actively participate in folk dances and rituals that reflect their rich cultural heritage.
The Koraga community follows a matrilineal family system and a unique clan structure called “bali,” which plays an important role in their social organization.
Koragas are led by the most senior person in the village, often known as Mooppan. He ensures the well-being of the members of the community.
Drumming and traditional music are integral to their rituals and community celebrations.
Dholu and Voote (Drum and Flute) were two important musical instruments of the Koragas.
The rhythmic drum-beating, especially with the “dholu,” is a significant aspect of their cultural identity, used in various ceremonies and gatherings.
Religious Beliefs:
The Koragas follow Hinduism but have distinct tribal religious beliefs and practices.
They worship spirits known as “Bhutas” and believe in the power of magic and rituals to ward off evil.
Explanation:Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
A groundbreaking genomic study led by researchers from Mangalore University and Yenepoya (Deemed-to-be University) has identified a distinct ancestral source in the Koraga tribe that may date back to the Indus Valley Civilisation.
About Koraga Tribe:
The Koraga is an indigenous tribal community that is basically found mainly in the Dakshina Kannada, Udupi districts of Karnataka and the Kasaragod district of Kerala state.
The Koragas are classified as a Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Group (PVTG).
As per the 2011 census, their total population is 1582, in which 778 were males and 804 females.
Language: People communicate either in their language, known as Koraga Bhasha, or in Tulu.
Culture and Economy:
The Koragas mainly depend on agriculture and forest resources for their livelihoods.
They are known for their traditional crafts, such as basket-making, and actively participate in folk dances and rituals that reflect their rich cultural heritage.
The Koraga community follows a matrilineal family system and a unique clan structure called “bali,” which plays an important role in their social organization.
Koragas are led by the most senior person in the village, often known as Mooppan. He ensures the well-being of the members of the community.
Drumming and traditional music are integral to their rituals and community celebrations.
Dholu and Voote (Drum and Flute) were two important musical instruments of the Koragas.
The rhythmic drum-beating, especially with the “dholu,” is a significant aspect of their cultural identity, used in various ceremonies and gatherings.
Religious Beliefs:
The Koragas follow Hinduism but have distinct tribal religious beliefs and practices.
They worship spirits known as “Bhutas” and believe in the power of magic and rituals to ward off evil.
Consider the following statements regarding Batten Disease, recently seen in the news:
It is a very rare genetic disorder that affects the brain and nervous system.
Currently, there is no treatment to reverse the effects of Batten disease.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: c
Explanation:
Researchers recently have found that male and female brains show different responses as the Batten Disease progresses and have found a model of the disease that could transform future treatments.
About Batten Disease:
It is a very rare genetic disorder that affects the brain and nervous system.
Batten disease is a congenital, progressive, and terminal neurological disease.
Symptoms sometimes begin in infancy and sometimes later in childhood, after apparently normal early development.
Occasionally it may start in adulthood.
In individuals suffering from Batten disease, nervous system function steadily declines, causing a wide variety of neurologic problems, including loss of vision and seizures.
The life expectancy of a child born with Batten disease can vary, depending on the form of the disease and the age of onset.
Some children die in early childhood, while others may be able to live into their teens or twenties.
What Causes Batten Disease?
Batten disease is actually a family of related disorders also known as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses.
It can be caused by genetic mutations in any of more than a dozen known genes, collectively referred to as CLN genes (CLN1, CLN2, etc).
There are 13 known forms of Batten disease (CLN1 through CLN14).
Each form is classified by the specific version of the CLN (ceroid lipofuscinosis, neuronal) gene that causes it, with each numbered subtype referring to a different gene that causes its own respective form of the disease.
The most common type of Batten disease is CLN3.
Symptoms:
Most forms of Batten disease cause vision loss, seizures, delayed developmental milestones, behavioral and learning problems, and loss of language and motor skills.
Some children with infantile Batten disease also develop microcephaly.
Vision loss is often the first symptom and can rapidly progress.
Parents also often notice clumsiness and stumbling in older children due to a loss of motor coordination.
Eventually, children with Batten disease become blind, unable to walk, talk, or swallow, and confined to a wheelchair or bed.
Treatment:
Currently, there is no treatment to reverse the effects of Batten disease.
But some medications can help improve symptoms like seizure
Some people with Batten disease get physical or occupational therapy to help them function.
Researchers recently have found that male and female brains show different responses as the Batten Disease progresses and have found a model of the disease that could transform future treatments.
About Batten Disease:
It is a very rare genetic disorder that affects the brain and nervous system.
Batten disease is a congenital, progressive, and terminal neurological disease.
Symptoms sometimes begin in infancy and sometimes later in childhood, after apparently normal early development.
Occasionally it may start in adulthood.
In individuals suffering from Batten disease, nervous system function steadily declines, causing a wide variety of neurologic problems, including loss of vision and seizures.
The life expectancy of a child born with Batten disease can vary, depending on the form of the disease and the age of onset.
Some children die in early childhood, while others may be able to live into their teens or twenties.
What Causes Batten Disease?
Batten disease is actually a family of related disorders also known as neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses.
It can be caused by genetic mutations in any of more than a dozen known genes, collectively referred to as CLN genes (CLN1, CLN2, etc).
There are 13 known forms of Batten disease (CLN1 through CLN14).
Each form is classified by the specific version of the CLN (ceroid lipofuscinosis, neuronal) gene that causes it, with each numbered subtype referring to a different gene that causes its own respective form of the disease.
The most common type of Batten disease is CLN3.
Symptoms:
Most forms of Batten disease cause vision loss, seizures, delayed developmental milestones, behavioral and learning problems, and loss of language and motor skills.
Some children with infantile Batten disease also develop microcephaly.
Vision loss is often the first symptom and can rapidly progress.
Parents also often notice clumsiness and stumbling in older children due to a loss of motor coordination.
Eventually, children with Batten disease become blind, unable to walk, talk, or swallow, and confined to a wheelchair or bed.
Treatment:
Currently, there is no treatment to reverse the effects of Batten disease.
But some medications can help improve symptoms like seizure
Some people with Batten disease get physical or occupational therapy to help them function.
Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary, recently seen in the news, lies in which Indian state?
Correct
Answer: d
Explanation:
A farmer was recently killed in a tiger attack near Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary in Mysuru.
About Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary:
It is situated in the Mysuru district, Karnataka.
It lies north of Bandipur National Park.
It covers about 30 sq.km., and the northern part of the sanctuary is occupied by the Nugu Reservoir.
Nugu Dam is built across the Nugu River, a tributary of the Cauvery.
In the year 1974, Nugu was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary, and later, during the year 2003-2004, the area of Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary was added to the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Rainfall: The area receives rainfall from both southwest and northeast monsoons. The average amount of rainfall received in this area is 1000 mm.
Vegetation: Most of the vegetation in the forests is dry deciduous interspersed with patches of plantations.
Flora: Some of the tree species found in this region include Dipterocarpus indicus, Calophyllum tomentosum, and Hopea parviflora.
Fauna:
The sanctuary supports a diverse range of fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, wild dogs, striped hyenas, sloth bears, gaurs, sambhars, chitals, and four-horned antelopes.
It is also home to two important riverine wildlife species: the smooth-coated otter and the marsh crocodile, emphasizing its rich biodiversity.
The area is also rich in avifauna with birds like peafowl, India rind dove, Grey Jungle Fowl, Brahminy kite, Grey headed fish eagle, etc.
A farmer was recently killed in a tiger attack near Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary in Mysuru.
About Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary:
It is situated in the Mysuru district, Karnataka.
It lies north of Bandipur National Park.
It covers about 30 sq.km., and the northern part of the sanctuary is occupied by the Nugu Reservoir.
Nugu Dam is built across the Nugu River, a tributary of the Cauvery.
In the year 1974, Nugu was declared as a Wildlife Sanctuary, and later, during the year 2003-2004, the area of Nugu Wildlife Sanctuary was added to the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve.
Rainfall: The area receives rainfall from both southwest and northeast monsoons. The average amount of rainfall received in this area is 1000 mm.
Vegetation: Most of the vegetation in the forests is dry deciduous interspersed with patches of plantations.
Flora: Some of the tree species found in this region include Dipterocarpus indicus, Calophyllum tomentosum, and Hopea parviflora.
Fauna:
The sanctuary supports a diverse range of fauna, including elephants, tigers, leopards, wild dogs, striped hyenas, sloth bears, gaurs, sambhars, chitals, and four-horned antelopes.
It is also home to two important riverine wildlife species: the smooth-coated otter and the marsh crocodile, emphasizing its rich biodiversity.
The area is also rich in avifauna with birds like peafowl, India rind dove, Grey Jungle Fowl, Brahminy kite, Grey headed fish eagle, etc.
Consider the following statements regarding Lichen, recently seen in the news:
It is a symbiotic association between algae and bacteria.
In lichens, algae perform photosynthesis and provide food.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: b
Explanation:
Researchers recently discovered four new lichen species, enhancing biodiversity understanding in the Western Ghats.
About Lichen:
A lichen is a symbiosis between different organisms — a fungus and an algae or cyanobacterium.
The basis of their relationship is the mutual benefit that they provide each other.
The photosynthetic algae or cyanobacteria form simple carbohydrates that, when excreted, are absorbed by fungi cells and transformed into a different carbohydrate.
They also produce vitamins that the fungi need.
Fungi contribute to the symbiosis by absorbing water vapour from the air and by providing much-needed shade for the light-sensitive algae beneath.
The composite body of a lichen is called a thallus (plural thalli); the body is anchored to its substrate by hairlike growths called rhizines.
Lichens are found worldwide and occur in a variety of environmental conditions.
A diverse group of organisms, they can colonize a wide range of surfaces and are frequently found on tree bark, exposed rock, and as a part of biological soil crust.
Benefits that Lichen Give to Nature:
They are a keystone species in many ecosystems.
They serve as a food source and habitat for many animals, such as deer, birds, and rodents.
They provide nesting materials for birds.
They protect trees and rocks from extreme elements such as rain, wind, and snow.
Pioneers of colonization:
Lichens are considered as primary colonisers.
These invade bare areas and contribute to soil formation by breaking down rock minerals both physically and chemically and thus creating conditions for other species such as mosses and liverworts to follow.
Researchers recently discovered four new lichen species, enhancing biodiversity understanding in the Western Ghats.
About Lichen:
A lichen is a symbiosis between different organisms — a fungus and an algae or cyanobacterium.
The basis of their relationship is the mutual benefit that they provide each other.
The photosynthetic algae or cyanobacteria form simple carbohydrates that, when excreted, are absorbed by fungi cells and transformed into a different carbohydrate.
They also produce vitamins that the fungi need.
Fungi contribute to the symbiosis by absorbing water vapour from the air and by providing much-needed shade for the light-sensitive algae beneath.
The composite body of a lichen is called a thallus (plural thalli); the body is anchored to its substrate by hairlike growths called rhizines.
Lichens are found worldwide and occur in a variety of environmental conditions.
A diverse group of organisms, they can colonize a wide range of surfaces and are frequently found on tree bark, exposed rock, and as a part of biological soil crust.
Benefits that Lichen Give to Nature:
They are a keystone species in many ecosystems.
They serve as a food source and habitat for many animals, such as deer, birds, and rodents.
They provide nesting materials for birds.
They protect trees and rocks from extreme elements such as rain, wind, and snow.
Pioneers of colonization:
Lichens are considered as primary colonisers.
These invade bare areas and contribute to soil formation by breaking down rock minerals both physically and chemically and thus creating conditions for other species such as mosses and liverworts to follow.
Consider the following statements regarding ReALCRaft Portal:
It provides information about the movement of ships of other countries in the India Ocean.
It is developed by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, and Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: b
Explanation:
Recently, government notified rules for “Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone” and an Access Pass required for mechanized and large-sized motorized vessels can be obtained through the online ReALCRaft portal.
The Registration And Licensing of Fishing Craft (ReALCRaft) portal is developed as a national online platform under open source technology.
It is developed by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
It provides web-based, citizen-centric services to marine fishers and coastal States/UTs for the registration and licensing of fishing vessels, transfer of ownership, and related processes, thereby promoting ease of doing business.
Objectives: To develop a modern, comprehensive and transparent vessel data management system in the country with the aim to enhance security features and to bring efficiency, transparency, accountability and reliability in services.
Features of ReALCRaft Portal:
Integration with state-specific payment gateway (Bank /treasury),
Integration with security agencies to record the movements and track the vessels.
Upstream integration with insurance agencies, subsidy schemems for eDBT.
Integration with ISRO facilitates real-time communication with fishermen at sea.
Integration & data sharing with Govt. Agencies/ Security Agencies
It is also being integrated with Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) and the Export Inspection Council (EIC) for issuance of Fish Catch and Health Certificates.
Recently, government notified rules for “Sustainable Harnessing of Fisheries in the Exclusive Economic Zone” and an Access Pass required for mechanized and large-sized motorized vessels can be obtained through the online ReALCRaft portal.
The Registration And Licensing of Fishing Craft (ReALCRaft) portal is developed as a national online platform under open source technology.
It is developed by the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Fisheries, Animal Husbandry & Dairying.
It provides web-based, citizen-centric services to marine fishers and coastal States/UTs for the registration and licensing of fishing vessels, transfer of ownership, and related processes, thereby promoting ease of doing business.
Objectives: To develop a modern, comprehensive and transparent vessel data management system in the country with the aim to enhance security features and to bring efficiency, transparency, accountability and reliability in services.
Features of ReALCRaft Portal:
Integration with state-specific payment gateway (Bank /treasury),
Integration with security agencies to record the movements and track the vessels.
Upstream integration with insurance agencies, subsidy schemems for eDBT.
Integration with ISRO facilitates real-time communication with fishermen at sea.
Integration & data sharing with Govt. Agencies/ Security Agencies
It is also being integrated with Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) and the Export Inspection Council (EIC) for issuance of Fish Catch and Health Certificates.
Consider the following statements regarding Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission:
It is a flagship poverty alleviation program implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development.
It aims at mobilise rural poor households into Self Help Groups and continuously nurturing them to take economic activities.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: c
Explanation:
Ethiopian delegates expressed their intention to apply the lessons learned from the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) their Productive Safety Net Program.
It is a flagship poverty alleviation program implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India.
It aims at mobilizing rural poor households into Self Help Groups (SHGs) and continuously nurturing and supporting them to take economic activities till they attain an appreciable increase in income over a period of time to come out of abject poverty.
Objectives of DAY-NRLM:
Access to formal credit;
Support for diversification and strengthening of livelihoods; and
Access to entitlements and public services.
Background of DAY-NRLM:
National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) was launched in 2010 by restructuring the erstwhile Swarnajayanti Grameen Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY).
In 2016, it was renamed Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAYNRLM).
Funding: The central and state governments jointly fund this centrally sponsored scheme.
The Mission seeks to achieve its objective through investing in four core components:
Social mobilization and promotion and strengthening of self-managed and financially sustainable community institutions of the rural poor women;
Financial inclusion;
Sustainable livelihoods; and
Social inclusion, social development and access to entitlements through convergence
Ethiopian delegates expressed their intention to apply the lessons learned from the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM) their Productive Safety Net Program.
It is a flagship poverty alleviation program implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India.
It aims at mobilizing rural poor households into Self Help Groups (SHGs) and continuously nurturing and supporting them to take economic activities till they attain an appreciable increase in income over a period of time to come out of abject poverty.
Objectives of DAY-NRLM:
Access to formal credit;
Support for diversification and strengthening of livelihoods; and
Access to entitlements and public services.
Background of DAY-NRLM:
National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM) was launched in 2010 by restructuring the erstwhile Swarnajayanti Grameen Swarojgar Yojana (SGSY).
In 2016, it was renamed Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihood Mission (DAYNRLM).
Funding: The central and state governments jointly fund this centrally sponsored scheme.
The Mission seeks to achieve its objective through investing in four core components:
Social mobilization and promotion and strengthening of self-managed and financially sustainable community institutions of the rural poor women;
Financial inclusion;
Sustainable livelihoods; and
Social inclusion, social development and access to entitlements through convergence
With reference to Rhesus Macaque, consider the following:
It is a species of Old World monkey.
It is found in in forests, mangroves and grassland regions.
It is categorized as critically endangered species under the IUCN Red List.
How many of the above statements are correct?
Correct
Answer: b
Explanation:
Recently, the standing committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) has recommended reinstating Rhesus Macaque species of monkeys under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) is a species of Old World monkey.
Appearance: Rhesus macaques are familiar brown primates with red faces and rears. They have close-cropped hair on their heads, which accentuates their very expressive faces.
Distribution: They are native to India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Afghanistan, Vietnam, southern China, and some neighboring areas.
Habitat: They may be found in forests, mangroves, scrub, grasslands, and mountainous regions.
They also adapt well to human presence and form larger troops in human-dominated landscapes than in forests.
Diet: Rhesus macaques are omnivorous animals, eating seeds, roots, bark, fruits, and cereals.
Characteristics of Rhesus macaques:
Social groups: They live in large groups, often led by a dominant male.
Lifestyle: These are social, diurnal, and both terrestrial and arboreal animals.Â
Communication: They use vocalizations, facial expressions, and body language.
Recently, the standing committee of the National Board for Wildlife (SC-NBWL) has recommended reinstating Rhesus Macaque species of monkeys under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
The Rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta) is a species of Old World monkey.
Appearance: Rhesus macaques are familiar brown primates with red faces and rears. They have close-cropped hair on their heads, which accentuates their very expressive faces.
Distribution: They are native to India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand, Afghanistan, Vietnam, southern China, and some neighboring areas.
Habitat: They may be found in forests, mangroves, scrub, grasslands, and mountainous regions.
They also adapt well to human presence and form larger troops in human-dominated landscapes than in forests.
Diet: Rhesus macaques are omnivorous animals, eating seeds, roots, bark, fruits, and cereals.
Characteristics of Rhesus macaques:
Social groups: They live in large groups, often led by a dominant male.
Lifestyle: These are social, diurnal, and both terrestrial and arboreal animals.Â
Communication: They use vocalizations, facial expressions, and body language.
Consider the following statements regarding Melanin:
It is a natural pigment found in most living organisms.Â
It acts as a biological shield, absorbing harmful ultraviolet rays.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Correct
Answer: c
Explanation:
Melanin tells the tale of how our ancestors survived from Sun’s heavy UV rays 50000 years back.
Melanin is a natural pigment found in most living organisms.
It is present in human and animal skin to varying degrees, and is responsible for your unique eye, hair and skin color.
Melanin is produced within special structures called melanosomes. Melanosomes are found inside melanin-producingpigment cells called
Types of Melanin:
Eumelanin: It is responsible for brown and black shades of hair, skin, and eyes.
Pheomelanin: It produces red or yellow hues — more common in people with red hair or lighter skin.
Neuromelanin: It is found in the brain, and develops from the oxidation of dopamine (a feel good chemical) and noradrenaline(a fight-or-flight hormone).
Melanin-Related Skin Conditions:
Vitiligo: It is a condition where the skin loses its pigment-producing cells, leading to white patches.
Albinism: It is a genetic mutation that prevents melanin production, resulting in pale skin, hair, and eyes.
Hyperpigmentation: Excess melanin causes darker spots or patches, often due to sun exposure or hormones.
Role of Melanin:
Biological Shield: It acts as a biological shield,absorbing harmful ultraviolet rays and thereby protecting the skin from potential skin cancers like melanoma, and various carcinomas
Camouflage and Survival: It helps animals to blend in with their environment via camouflage. This ability is very crucial for both predator and prey.
Thermoregulation: It also helps in thermoregulation, controlling heat loss and generation through mechanisms like sweating.
Ans. The Daily UPSC Quiz is a set of practice questions based on current affairs, static subjects, and PYQs that help aspirants enhance retention and test conceptual clarity regularly.
Q2. How is the Daily Quiz useful for UPSC preparation?+
Ans. Daily quizzes support learning, help in revision, improve time management, and boost accuracy for both UPSC Prelims and Mains through consistent practice.
Q3. Are the quiz questions based on the UPSC syllabus?+
Ans. Yes, all questions are aligned with the UPSC Syllabus 2025, covering key areas like Polity, Economy, Environment, History, Geography, and Current Affairs.
Q4. Are solutions and explanations provided with the quiz?+
Ans. Yes, each quiz includes detailed explanations and source references to enhance conceptual understanding and enable self-assessment.
Q5. Is the Daily UPSC Quiz suitable for both Prelims and Mains?+
Ans. Primarily focused on Prelims (MCQ format), but it also indirectly helps in Mains by strengthening subject knowledge and factual clarity.
At Vajiram & Ravi, our team includes subject experts who have appeared for the UPSC Mains and the Interview stage. With their deep understanding of the exam, they create content that is clear, to the point, reliable, and helpful for aspirants.Their aim is to make even difficult topics easy to understand and directly useful for your UPSC preparation—whether it’s for Current Affairs, General Studies, or Optional subjects. Every note, article, or test is designed to save your time and boost your performance.
