With the UPSC Civil Services Examination (CSE) Prelims 2027 still on the horizon, it is crucial for candidates to establish a solid foundation while consistently engaging with current affairs. The UPSC Weekly Quiz serves as a valuable tool for those preparing for competitive exams, featuring questions on significant topics from the past week. Participants are encouraged to complete the quiz each Saturday and examine the comprehensive answers provided, which include detailed explanations to enhance understanding and readiness for the exam.
As we celebrate the third anniversary of the UPSC Essentials magazine, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to our readers for their support throughout this journey. Your feedback, trust, and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping the publication, motivating us to improve with every issue. Click here to access the September 2026 edition of the UPSC Essentials magazine. We welcome your thoughts and suggestions, which can be shared in the comment section or sent via email to manas.srivastava@indianexpress.com.
In relation to energy storage systems, consider the following statements:
1. Energy storage systems convert electricity from renewable sources into a storable form for future use.
2. India aims to achieve a target of 208 GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) by the year 2030.
Which of the above statements is/are accurate?
This question is pertinent for the UPSC Prelims 2027 as it addresses the expanding energy storage framework and the integration of renewable energy in India. The relevance of energy storage in the country’s power sector and renewable energy objectives makes this topic significant for the examination.
The Indian government has approved the third phase of the Green Energy Corridor (GEC) with a budget of Rs 1.86 lakh crore. This initiative aims to facilitate the transfer of up to 135 gigawatts (GW) of renewable energy to consumers. The term “evacuation” refers to the process of moving electricity generated from renewable sources to areas where it is needed.
The GEC is a key government initiative designed to create dedicated transmission infrastructure that integrates substantial amounts of renewable energy, such as solar and wind power, into the national grid. Notably, this phase introduces a specific battery energy storage component, with plans to deploy 50 gigawatt-hours (GWh) of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS).
Energy storage systems are designed to capture excess renewable electricity during peak generation periods and release it when demand surges, but generation is low. These systems do not directly store electricity; instead, they convert energy into alternative forms—such as chemical, mechanical, or thermal energy—before releasing it as electricity when required. Consequently, the first statement is incorrect.
According to the National Electricity Plan (2023) from the Central Electricity Authority (CEA), a goal of 208 GWh of Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) has been set for 2030 to facilitate the seamless integration of increasing renewable energy in the grid. Therefore, the second statement is correct.
As a result, the correct answer is option (b).
Regarding the Exchangeable Pitch System in cricket, consider the following statements:
1. It is predominantly utilized at Lord’s Cricket Ground in England.
2. This system allows for the preparation and installation of a cricket pitch separately at a stadium as needed.
3. The ICC has prohibited the use of the Exchangeable Pitch System for the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup.
Which of the following conclusions is accurate based on the statements above?
(a) All three statements are accurate.
(b) There are two correct statements, including statement 1.
(c) Only one statement is correct.
(d) None of the statements are correct.
This question pertains to the UPSC Prelims 2027 as the Exchangeable Pitch System is a recent advancement in cricket infrastructure related to the upcoming 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup. The topic merges current affairs with sports infrastructure concepts and tests candidates’ awareness of innovations in sports.
To maintain optimal pitch conditions for the 2027 Men’s ODI World Cup, which will be co-hosted by South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Namibia, pitch curators in South Africa have devised an innovative Exchangeable Pitch System (EPS). Among the eight South African venues set to host World Cup matches, five are looking to implement this system, enabling ground staff to swap pitches to avoid wear and tear from excessive use. Thus, statement 3 is incorrect.
This concept resembles a drop-in pitch, which is commonly used at venues such as Australia’s Melbourne Cricket Ground and during the 2024 T20 World Cup in the USA. A drop-in pitch is prepared externally and then placed into the stadium prior to a match, accommodating stadiums that host multiple sports and events that require varied ground conditions. Therefore, statement 1 is also incorrect, while statement 2 is valid.
Large trailers equipped with cranes are utilized to position the pitches in designated spots, which are prepped to meet the specific dimensions required. After the matches, the pitches are retrieved, and the ground is restored to its original condition.
Thus, the correct answer is option (c).
For further reading: Discover how South Africa’s new exchangeable pitches could influence the 2027 Cricket World Cup.
Concerning the International Tourism Mart (ITM), consider the following statements:
1. It is an annual flagship event organized by the Ministry of Culture.
2. This event is hosted in rotation across different North-Eastern states.
3. The inaugural edition of ITM took place in 2025 in Sikkim.
How many of the statements above are true?
This question is relevant for the UPSC Prelims 2027 as it addresses significant developments in the field of international tourism and the promotion of North-Eastern India as a tourist destination.
