Daily UPSC Current Quiz : 23 April 2026

With reference to the current developments in Gene Therapy, consider the following statements:

1. In ex vivo gene therapy, the genetic transformation of the patient’s cells occurs within the living body using viral vectors.

2. Adeno-associated viruses (AAVs) are preferred over Retroviruses in certain therapies because they do not integrate their genetic material into the host genome, reducing the risk of insertional mutagenesis.

3. Somatic gene therapy results in genetic changes that are hereditary and can be passed to future generations.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Regarding the Essential Religious Practices (ERP) doctrine in India, consider the following statements:

1. The Constitution of India explicitly defines “essential practices” under Article 25 to limit the state’s interference in personal laws.

2. The doctrine was first propounded by the Supreme Court to distinguish between “religious” and “secular” activities associated with religion.

3. Once a practice is declared “essential” by a religious head, the Judiciary is constitutionally barred from testing its validity against Part III of the Constitution.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Consider the following countries:

1. Norway

2. Sweden

3. Denmark

4. Finland

5. Iceland

How many of the above countries are considered “Scandinavian” in the strict linguistic and cultural sense?

Consider the following statements regarding the protection and distribution of dolphins in India:

1. The Gangetic Dolphin is the only freshwater dolphin species found in India.

2. It is listed as “Critically Endangered” on the IUCN Red List and is included in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.

3. Uttar Pradesh currently hosts the largest population of Gangetic dolphins in India, followed by Bihar.

   Which of the statements given above is/are correct?