UPSC Quiz – 2025 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 14th January 2026

Solution (c)

Explanation:

• Man Portable Anti-tank Guided Missile (MPATGM) Weapon System is indigenously designed and developed by Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO). Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) are the development-cum-production partners (DcPP) for the MPATGM. It is the third-generation “fire and forget” missile. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

Its range is minimum of 200m to a maximum of 4 km (varies by source, commonly cited as up to 2.5–4 km). It is extremely lightweight (approx. 14.5 kg) to ensure portability by a single soldier. The missile can be launched from a tripod-mounted system as well as from a military vehicle-based launcher, enhancing its operational flexibility. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Solution (d)

Explanation:

• Catastrophe Bonds are insurance-linked securities that transfer the financial risks from natural disasters from the bond issuer to the capital market. These are a unique hybrid insurance-cum-debt financial product that transforms insurance cover into a tradable security. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

• These are issued through intermediaries, such as the World Bank or Asian Development Bank, to reduce issuance risks. These are purchased by global investors, including pension funds, hedge funds, and family offices, who are attracted by high returns and the diversification benefits of non-market correlated risks. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

The risk level and frequency of disaster occurrence directly influence coupon rates. For instance, earthquake-related bonds often offer lower premiums (1-2%) compared to those covering cyclones or hurricanes. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Solution (a)

Explanation:

• Bhadrakali Temple Inscription is situated in Prabhas Patan, Gujarat specifically on the wall of the Bhadrakali Temple. It was carved in 1169 CE (Valabhi Samvat 850 and Vikram Samvat 1255). Hence, statement 1 is INCORRECT.

It is a eulogistic inscription of Param Pashupata Acharya Shriman Bhavabrihaspati, the (spiritual preceptor of Maharajadhiraj Kumarapala of Anhilwad Patan). It reflects the Shaiva-Pashupata lineage, a dominant religious tradition in early medieval Gujarat. It reflects the devotion of the Solanki rulers and scholars like Bhavabrihaspati. Hence, statements 2 and 3 are correct.

Solution (b)

Explanation:

• Bannerghatta National Park is located in the hills of the Anekal range, near Bangalore, Karnataka. It was declared a National Park in 1974. In 2006, India’s first butterfly enclosure was inaugurated at the park. It covers an area of approximately 260.51 sq km. It forms a vital elephant corridor linking the Biligirirangana Hills and Sathyamangalam forests. Hence, option b is the correct answer.

Solution (a)

Explanation:

• Rooted in the United Nations Charter and guided by the transformative 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the UNDESA upholds the development pillar of the United Nations. Its Divisions and Offices work together towards a common goal to promote the social, economic, and environmental dimensions of sustainable development. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

• It was originally founded in 1948 and restructured in 1997. It is based at UN Headquarters in New York, United States. Its work addresses a range of cross-cutting issues that affect peoples’ lives and livelihoods. From poverty reduction to governance to finance to the environment, UN DESA’s work is about human progress for all, especially the most vulnerable. Hence, statement 2 is not correct.