UPSC Quiz – 2026 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 26th February 2026

Solution (a)

Explanation:

• Article 3 of the Constitution empowers Parliament to form new states or alter areas, boundaries, or names of existing states. It will also amend the First Schedule of the Constitution, which contains the list and names of states and Union Territories. A bill for renaming a state can only be introduced in either House of Parliament with the prior recommendation of the President. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

Before recommending the bill, the President must refer it to the concerned State Legislature for its views. The bill requires only a simple majority (50%+1 of members present and voting) in both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha to be passed. Under Article 4, such laws are not deemed to be constitutional amendments requiring a special majority, even though they result in changes to the First Schedule. Hence, statement 3 is not correct.

Solution (c)

Explanation:

• SUJVIKA Portal is an AI driven Biotech Product Data Portal. It is developed by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) in collaboration with an industry partner, the Association of Biotechnology Led Enterprises (ABLE). It presents authenticated biotechnology product import data in a structured and accessible format. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

It is primarily aimed at Indian researchers, biotechnology startups, and industry players to facilitate evidence-based R&D planning. It provides structured and authenticated data specifically on biotechnology product imports. It also provides sector-wise insights into biochemical products, industrial enzymes, and other biotechnology imports. Hence, statements 2 and 3 are correct.

Solution (a)

Explanation:

• Periyar Tiger Reserve (PTR) is located in the Idukki district of Kerala. It is set high at Cardamom Hills and Pandalam Hills of the Western Ghats, adjacent to the border with Tamil Nadu. It is named after the Periyar River. It was established in 1934 as the Nellikkampatty Game Sanctuary by the Maharaja of Travancore. In 1950, it was formally consolidated and recognized as the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary. In 1978, it was included in Project Tiger and renamed the Periyar Tiger Reserve, becoming India’s 10th tiger reserve. Hence, option a is the correct answer.

Solution (d)

Explanation:

Chicory is a blue-flowered, woody perennial herbaceous plant mainly cultivated in temperate regions worldwide. It is native to Europe and Asia; in India, it is primarily cultivated in Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat. It contains Inulin, a soluble fiber and prebiotic that acts as a natural sweetener. It is naturally caffeine-free and rich in beta-carotene. It is a popular additive that provides a darker colour and an earthy taste to coffee. It is significantly less expensive than high-quality coffee. Hence, statements 1 and 2 are correct.

Solution (b)

Explanation:

Exercise Dharma Guardian is the annual joint military exercise between India and Japan. It is held alternately in India and Japan and remains a key pillar of defence cooperation between the two nations. The objective of the Exercise ‘DHARMA GUARDIAN’ is to strengthen military collaboration and enhance combined capabilities to undertake joint operations in a semi-urban environment. Hence, option b is the correct answer.