For aspirants preparing for the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Prelims 2026, consistent revision of core subjects is crucial. The Indian Express's UPSC Essentials initiative offers a targeted subject-wise quiz series to aid this process. The latest edition, focusing on the Economy, presents five critical multiple-choice questions designed to test and reinforce understanding of static syllabus topics.
Decoding Cryptocurrencies and Blockchain
The quiz begins with a fundamental question on digital currencies. It asks candidates to evaluate three statements about cryptocurrencies. The correct answer clarifies that only one statement is accurate.
Cryptocurrencies, such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, are digital tokens enabling peer-to-peer online payments without intermediaries. Contrary to the first statement, they are not issued by a central bank nor recognized as legal tender like fiat currencies (e.g., the Indian Rupee). The second statement is also incorrect because cryptocurrencies lack intrinsic or legislated value; their worth is purely market-driven. The third statement is true: these currencies fundamentally rely on blockchain technology. This decentralized ledger system is what allows them to bypass traditional financial institutions, aiming for instant and lower-cost transactions.
India's Strategic Trade Moves and Environmental Norms
Another question probes India's evolving trade strategy. It presents two statements regarding Indian exporters seeking better access in the Arab region, with the second citing less stringent standards compared to the European Union.
The explanation confirms that both statements are correct, but the second does not fully explain the first. While easier standards are a factor, India's broader outreach to West Asia—exemplified by a pending trade deal with Oman—is driven by strategic diversification. This move aims to counter trade uncertainties and restrictions in markets like the US and EU, such as the carbon tax.
On the environmental front, a question tests knowledge of Bharat Stage VI (BS-VI) emission standards. The quiz asks about reductions in Particulate Matter (PM) and Nitrogen Oxides (NOx). The answer confirms that both statements are correct. BS-VI norms mandate an approximate 80% reduction in PM emissions compared to the older BS-III standards. Furthermore, for diesel vehicles, NOx emissions have decreased by nearly 70% under BS-VI compared to BS-IV, achieved through advanced technologies like Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR).
Economic Trends and Occupational Classification
The quiz also includes a macro-economic question identifying a country with near-zero real growth and low inflation over two decades. The correct answer is Japan, which has averaged around 0.4% growth between 1999-2000 and 2023-24. A key challenge cited is an unfavorable demographic shift, including rapid aging and a shrinking workforce, which has constrained the country's productive capacity.
Finally, a question on official occupational categorization by the Labour Bureau asks which jobs fall under agriculture. The correct options are plant protection, animal husbandry work, and logging/wood cutting. Other listed occupations, such as bamboo/basket maker and handicraft worker, are classified under non-agricultural work.
This daily quiz serves as a concise yet comprehensive tool for UPSC aspirants to gauge their preparedness, identify weak areas, and solidify their grasp on vital economic concepts ranging from contemporary digital finance to environmental policy and international trade dynamics.
