UPSC Quiz – 2026 : IASbaba’s Daily Current Affairs Quiz 28th July 2026

Solution (a)
Explanation:
The Undavalli Caves are situated in Guntur district of Andhra Pradesh on the banks of the Krishna River, near Vijayawada. Built during the 4th–5th centuries CE, they are primarily associated with the Vishnukundina dynasty and display strong Gupta architectural influences. The caves are believed to have originally served as a Buddhist–Jain monastic complex, before later being transformed into a Hindu temple, reflecting religious syncretism. Hence, Statement 3 is incorrect. One of the most striking features is the 5-metre-long monolithic reclining image of Lord Vishnu (Anantasayana). UPSC often frames questions on rock-cut architecture by combining dynastic patronage, religious affiliation, and architectural features.
Why this question? Tests chronology, patronage and religious transition.
Why important for UPSC? Rock-cut architecture is a recurring Art & Culture theme.
PYQ Pattern Link: Similar to Ajanta, Ellora, Udayagiri and Badami cave questions.

Solution (c)
Explanation:
The Tripura Sarinda is a traditional bowed string instrument deeply associated with Tripura’s indigenous communities. It is hand-carved from a single block of wood, with a hollow resonating chamber covered by animal skin. The instrument is played using a horsehair bow, not a mouthpiece, making Statement 3 incorrect. It recently received a GI tag under the Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999, helping preserve traditional craftsmanship and improve artisans’ livelihoods. UPSC often asks about musical instruments by distinguishing them based on playing technique and associated regions.
Why this question? Tests GI tags and traditional musical instruments.
Why important for UPSC? Intangible cultural heritage is increasingly important.
PYQ Pattern Link: Similar to Santur, Rudra Veena and GI product questions.

Solution (d)
Explanation:
INSAT-3DR is an advanced geostationary meteorological satellite developed by ISRO and operated by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). It carries a 6-channel Multispectral Imager, a 19-channel Atmospheric Sounder, Data Relay Transponder (DRT), and Satellite-Aided Search and Rescue (SAS&R) payload. Statement 3 is incorrect because Scatterometer payloads are carried by satellites such as SCATSAT-1, not INSAT-3DR. The satellite plays a critical role in cyclone monitoring, nowcasting, cloud imaging, and disaster warning. UPSC often asks questions by interchanging payloads across different Indian satellites.
Why this question? Tests satellite payloads and applications.
Why important for UPSC? ISRO missions are consistently asked in Prelims.
PYQ Pattern Link: Similar to RISAT, SCATSAT and Oceansat questions.

Solution (a)
Explanation:
Sarnath, near Varanasi, is where Gautama Buddha delivered his First Sermon (Dhammacakkappavattana Sutta) after attaining enlightenment at Bodh Gaya, thereby founding the Buddhist Sangha. It is one of Buddhism’s four principal pilgrimage sites. The Ashokan Pillar at Sarnath bears the Lion Capital, which later became the National Emblem of India. Statement 4 is incorrect because the Dhamek Stupa commemorates the First Sermon, whereas Kushinagar is associated with the Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana. UPSC often asks Buddhist sites by linking them with major events in Buddha’s life.
Why this question? Tests Buddhist pilgrimage sites and Mauryan heritage.
Why important for UPSC? Buddhism and UNESCO-linked heritage are recurring topics.
PYQ Pattern Link: Similar to Bodh Gaya, Lumbini and Kushinagar questions.

Solution (b)
Explanation:
UNCITRAL is the United Nations’ principal legal body responsible for harmonising and modernising international trade law through Model Laws, conventions, legislative guides, and legal standards. It does not adjudicate disputes. In contrast, the WTO Dispute Settlement Body (DSB) administers the settlement of trade disputes arising under WTO agreements. Neither institution functions as a judicial organ of the United Nations. Statement (d) is also incorrect because investment arbitration is generally associated with institutions such as ICSID, not UNCITRAL alone. UPSC often frames comparative questions to distinguish between international rule-making bodies and dispute settlement mechanisms.
Why this question? Tests conceptual distinction among international institutions.
Why important for UPSC? International organisations and their mandates are frequent prelims themes.
PYQ Pattern Link: Similar to comparisons involving ICJ, WTO-DSB, UNCTAD and ICSID.