UPSC Prelims MCQs – World Obesity Atlas 2026

1.

The World Obesity Atlas 2026 was released by which of the following organizations?

(a) World Health Organization
(b) World Obesity Federation
(c) Food and Agriculture Organization
(d) UNICEF

---

2.

According to the World Obesity Atlas 2026, India ranks globally in the number of children who are overweight or living with obesity:

(a) First
(b) Second
(c) Third
(d) Fourth

---

3.

Consider the following countries:

1. China

2. India

3. United States

4. Indonesia

Which of the above are among the top five countries with the highest number of children (5–19 years) living with obesity according to the report?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
(d) 2 and 3 only

---

4.

According to the report, by 2040, the number of Indian children who may be overweight or living with obesity is projected to reach approximately:

(a) 20 million
(b) 36 million
(c) 56 million
(d) 100 million

---

5.

Which of the following health conditions are associated with childhood obesity?

1. Hypertension

2. Cardiovascular disease

3. Type-2 diabetes

4. Tuberculosis

Select the correct answer:

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

---

6.

According to the report, what percentage of adolescents aged 11–17 years fail to meet recommended physical activity levels?

(a) 54%
(b) 62%
(c) 74%
(d) 88%

---

7.

Consider the following statements regarding Body Mass Index (BMI):

1. BMI is calculated as weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters.

2. BMI is used to assess obesity among children and adults.

3. According to the WHO, obesity in children is determined when BMI is two standard deviations above the mean.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3

---

8.

The Eat Right India campaign is implemented by:

(a) Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
(b) Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
(c) Indian Council of Medical Research
(d) NITI Aayog

---

9.

Which of the following initiatives aims to encourage citizens to adopt physical activity and sports in daily life?

(a) Fit India Movement
(b) POSHAN Abhiyaan
(c) Ayushman Bharat
(d) Mission Indradhanush

---

10.

Which of the following measures have been suggested to reduce childhood obesity?

1. Tax on sugar-sweetened beverages

2. Restrict marketing of unhealthy foods to children

3. Improve school food environment

4. Ban physical education in schools

Select the correct answer:

(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

---

Answer Key

1. (b)

2. (b)

3. (c)

4. (c)

5. (b)

6. (c)

7. (d)

8. (b)

9. (a)

10. (b)

 

World Obesity Atlas 2026: India’s Rising Childhood Obesity Crisis

Why in the News?

On 4 March (World Obesity Day), the World Obesity Federation released the second edition of the World Obesity Atlas 2026.

The report highlights a worrying trend:

India now ranks 2nd globally in childhood overweight and obesity, after China, surpassing the United States and many Western countries.

This signals a major public health challenge for a country already battling malnutrition.

---

Key Findings of the Report

1. India’s Rising Childhood Obesity

• 41 million children in India have high Body Mass Index (BMI).

• 14 million children are already living with obesity.

• India is 2nd largest contributor globally to childhood obesity.

Country	Children (5-19 yrs) with Obesity
China	33 million
India	14 million
USA	13 million
Indonesia	8 million
Pakistan	8 million

---

2. Age-wise Burden in India (2025)

• 5–9 years: ~14.9 million overweight/obese

• 10–19 years: ~26 million overweight/obese

This indicates that adolescence is the most vulnerable age group.

---

3. Future Projections (2025–2040)

If current trends continue:

• 56 million Indian children will be overweight or obese.

• 20 million will be living with obesity alone.

• Globally 507 million children will be overweight or obese.

This shows obesity may become a global pandemic-like health crisis.

---

Health Risks Associated with Childhood Obesity

Childhood obesity leads to early onset of non-communicable diseases (NCDs):

• Hypertension

• Cardiovascular diseases

• Type-2 diabetes

• Fatty liver disease

• Metabolic disorders

By 2040, projections show:

• 57 million children may show early signs of cardiovascular disease

• 43 million children may develop hypertension

This increases future healthcare burden and economic costs.

---

Key Causes of Rising Childhood Obesity

1. Physical Inactivity

• 74% of adolescents (11–17 years) do not meet recommended physical activity levels.

Reasons:

• Increased screen time

• Urban lifestyle

• Reduced outdoor play

---

2. Poor Dietary Habits

Growing consumption of ultra-processed foods (UPFs).

UPFs contain:

• High fat

• High sugar

• High salt

Sales in India increased 40-fold (2006–2019).

---

3. Sugary Drinks and Junk Food

Excess sugar intake among children:

• Sugar contributes 13–15% of daily calorie intake

• The recommended limit is only 5%.

---

4. Maternal Health and Early Nutrition

Risk increases due to:

• Poor maternal nutrition

• Lack of breastfeeding

• Early unhealthy diet

Example:

• 32.6% infants are sub-optimally breastfed.

---

5. School Environment

• Only 35.5% of school children receive school meals

• Lack of sports infrastructure

• Limited healthy food availability.

---

What is Obesity?

According to the World Health Organization:

Obesity is an abnormal or excessive accumulation of fat that poses health risks.

Body Mass Index (BMI)

BMI formula:

$$BMI = \frac{Weight (kg)}{Height (m)^2}$$

Children aged 5–19 years are considered obese if their BMI is two standard deviations above the mean.

---

New Obesity Classification (Lancet Commission 2025)

 The Lancet Commission proposed a new definition:

1. Clinical Obesity

A disease condition involving:

• Organ dysfunction

• Breathlessness

• Sleep apnea

• Metabolic disorders

2. Pre-clinical Obesity

Excess body fat without current illness, but with potential future risks.

This approach recognizes obesity as a chronic and complex disease.

---

Government Initiatives to Address Obesity

1. Sugar Boards in Schools

The Central Board of Secondary Education directed schools to set up Sugar Boards to monitor sugar consumption.

---

2. Fit India Movement (2019)

Encourages:

• Daily physical activity

• Sports participation

• Healthy lifestyles.

---

3. Eat Right India Campaign (2018)

Launched by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India.

Focus areas:

• Safe food

• Healthy diets

• Sustainable food systems.

---

4. POSHAN Abhiyaan

Launched in 2018 to combat malnutrition.

Key components:

• Nutrition awareness

• Diet diversity

• Food fortification

• Millet promotion.

Mission POSHAN 2.0 strengthens these interventions.

---

Policy Suggestions from the Report

The Atlas recommends:

1. Stronger Prevention Policies

• Healthy school food environment

• Regulation of junk food

2. Taxation Measures

• Taxes on sugar-sweetened beverages

3. Marketing Restrictions

Limit advertisements of unhealthy foods targeted at children.

4. Early Screening

Primary healthcare systems should:

• Monitor BMI

• Detect risk factors early.

---

Why This Matters for India

India faces a double burden of malnutrition:

• Undernutrition (stunting, wasting)

• Overnutrition (obesity)

This creates a complex nutrition paradox.

Childhood obesity also threatens:

• Workforce productivity

• Healthcare system capacity

• Economic growth.

---

Way Forward

India needs a multi-sectoral strategy:

1. Promote healthy school meals

2. Encourage physical activity in schools

3. Regulate junk food marketing

4. Impose tax on sugary beverages

5. Strengthen nutrition awareness campaigns

6. Integrate obesity screening in primary healthcare

A whole-of-society approach involving families, schools, government, and industry is essential.

---

Conclusion

The World Obesity Atlas 2026 highlights that childhood obesity is no longer confined to developed countries. Rapid urbanization, sedentary lifestyles, and ultra-processed food consumption are driving this crisis in India.

If not addressed urgently, obesity could become one of India’s biggest public health challenges by 2040.

Preventive policies, healthy diets, and active lifestyles must become national priorities to safeguard the health of future generations.

 

Corona Discharges on Trees During Thunderstorms

Introduction

Thunderstorms generate enormous electrical energy that we observe as lightning. Scientists have long suspected that this electricity also flows through tall objects such as trees, producing faint ultraviolet glows known as corona discharges.

These electrical glows were predicted nearly a century ago, but scientists had never directly observed them in natural forests until recently. A new study published in Geophysical Research Letters has provided the first direct evidence of this phenomenon.

---

What Are Corona Discharges?

A corona discharge is a type of electrical discharge that occurs when the electric field around an object becomes strong enough to ionise the surrounding air but not strong enough to produce a lightning strike.

Characteristics:

• Produces a faint glow of ultraviolet light

• Occurs around sharp or pointed objects

• Common during high electric fields in thunderstorms

Trees are particularly suitable for corona discharges because:

• branches and leaves have sharp tips

• tall trees are exposed to strong electric fields during storms

---

The New Discovery

Scientists from Pennsylvania State University used a new instrument called the Corona Observing Telescope System (COTS).

This mobile system allowed researchers to observe corona discharges directly in forests during thunderstorms.

Key features of COTS

• special ultraviolet-sensitive camera

• mounted on a research vehicle

• capable of detecting light invisible to the human eye

---

Why Ultraviolet Detection Was Important

Corona discharges emit ultraviolet radiation.

Normally, detecting UV radiation during daytime is difficult because sunlight also contains UV light.

However, the study took advantage of the Ozone Layer, which blocks a particular wavelength of ultraviolet sunlight.

This allowed the instrument to detect the faint glow produced by electrical discharges.

---

Observations in Forests

During a thunderstorm in North Carolina, researchers observed corona discharges on:

• sweetgum trees

• loblolly pine trees

The ultraviolet glow was not stationary. Instead, it:

• jumped between leaves and branches

• followed branches moving in the wind

• lasted from fractions of a second to a few seconds

---

Electrical Characteristics

Scientists measured the brightness of the glow and linked it to electrical current.

Key findings:

• A typical discharge produced about 100 billion photons

• Corresponded to roughly one microampere of electrical current

Although this current is very small individually, the researchers found that during thunderstorms:

• corona discharges occur across entire forest canopies

• combined currents may become significant

---

Environmental Impact

Corona discharges affect atmospheric chemistry.

They produce Hydroxyl Radical (OH).

This molecule is often called the “detergent of the atmosphere” because it removes pollutants such as hydrocarbons.

Effects include:

• improving air quality

• influencing atmospheric chemistry around forests

---

Impact on Trees

The electrical surges associated with corona discharges can also affect vegetation.

Possible effects include:

• burning tiny leaf tips

• causing minor permanent damage to plant tissues

However, these effects are generally small.

---

Why This Discovery Matters

This research improves our understanding of:

• interactions between forests and thunderstorms

• atmospheric electricity

• atmospheric chemistry

It also opens a new field of study on how forests influence storm electrification and air chemistry.

---

Relevance for UPSC

Prelims

• atmospheric electricity

• ozone layer and ultraviolet radiation

• hydroxyl radical chemistry

GS-III

• environmental science

• atmospheric chemistry

• climate and weather interactions

---

Conclusion

The first direct observation of corona discharges on trees represents a major advance in atmospheric science. The discovery shows that forests are not passive during thunderstorms but actively participate in atmospheric electrical processes.

By revealing how corona discharges influence air chemistry and forest ecosystems, the study provides new insights into the complex interactions between weather systems, vegetation, and the atmosphere.

 

Vaccine-Induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT): What Happened After COVID-19 Vaccination?

Introduction

During the global rollout of COVID-19 vaccines in 2021, a rare but serious medical condition was reported in some individuals after vaccination. The condition, called Vaccine‑Induced Immune Thrombocytopenia and Thrombosis (VITT), involved unusual blood clots along with low platelet levels.

Most reported cases were linked to adenovirus-vector vaccines such as:

• AstraZeneca COVID‑19 Vaccine

• Johnson & Johnson COVID‑19 Vaccine

Understanding this rare complication became an important scientific challenge and eventually revealed important insights into how the immune system works.

For UPSC aspirants, this topic is relevant for GS-III (Science & Technology, Health) and Prelims biotechnology questions.

---

What is VITT?

VITT is a rare condition where the body:

• forms blood clots

• experiences low platelet counts

This unusual combination is dangerous because platelets normally help blood clot during injuries.

In VITT:

• platelets are activated excessively

• clots form in unusual locations (brain veins, abdominal vessels)

The incidence was very rare — approximately 3–10 cases per million vaccinated people.

---

Role of Platelet Factor 4 (PF4)

Researchers discovered that patients with VITT were producing antibodies against a human protein called:

Platelet Factor 4 (PF4).

PF4 normally helps regulate blood clotting.

However, in VITT:

1. Antibodies bind to PF4

2. The PF4-antibody complex activates platelets

3. Platelets form clots and get consumed

4. Platelet counts fall in the blood

This explains the combination of clotting and low platelets.

---

How COVID-19 Vaccines Work

Vaccines train the immune system by exposing it to a harmless version of a pathogen.

The target for COVID-19 vaccines was the SARS‑CoV‑2 Spike Protein.

Different vaccines used different technologies.

---

Two Main Types of COVID-19 Vaccine Technology

1. mRNA Vaccines

Examples:

• Pfizer‑BioNTech COVID‑19 Vaccine

• Moderna COVID‑19 Vaccine

These vaccines deliver messenger RNA (mRNA) directly into cells.

Process:

1. mRNA enters cell cytoplasm

2. Ribosomes read the instructions

3. Spike protein is produced

4. Immune system learns to recognise it

mRNA never enters the nucleus and is quickly destroyed.

---

2. Adenovirus-Vector Vaccines

Examples:

• AstraZeneca COVID‑19 Vaccine

• Johnson & Johnson COVID‑19 Vaccine

These vaccines use a harmless virus (adenovirus) as a delivery vehicle.

Steps:

1. Modified adenovirus carries DNA instructions

2. DNA enters the cell nucleus

3. Cell produces mRNA

4. Spike protein is produced

This method efficiently delivers genetic instructions into cells.

---

Why Did VITT Occur?

Recent research identified the trigger.

Inside the adenovirus is a protein called:

Adenovirus Protein VII

A small part of this protein resembles PF4.

Because of this similarity:

1. Immune system creates antibodies against the viral protein

2. In rare cases, antibodies mistakenly bind to PF4

3. This causes platelet activation and clot formation

This process is known as molecular mimicry, where immune responses mistakenly attack similar-looking body proteins.

---

Genetic Susceptibility

Researchers also found that many affected patients shared specific variants of an antibody gene called:

IGLV3‑21

A small mutation in these antibodies increased their ability to bind PF4 strongly.

Thus, VITT occurred only in people with rare genetic and immunological conditions.

---

Why the Discovery is Important

Understanding the mechanism behind VITT helps scientists:

• design safer vaccines

• modify adenovirus vectors

• identify individuals at risk

It also reassures the public that such events are extremely rare.

---

Importance of Adenovirus Vaccines

Despite this rare complication, adenovirus vaccines played a crucial role in global vaccination programs.

They are important because they:

• are cheaper to produce

• are easy to store

• helped vaccinate millions in developing countries

---

Relevance for UPSC

Prelims

• Vaccine technology (mRNA vs viral vector)

• Antibodies and immune response

• Biotechnology applications

GS-III

• Biotechnology and health security

• Vaccine development

• Public health and pandemic response

---

Conclusion

The discovery of the mechanism behind VITT represents a major scientific breakthrough. It shows how complex interactions between genetics, immunity, and vaccine design can occasionally produce unexpected effects.

Importantly, the research also demonstrates how science continuously improves medical technologies. By identifying the role of adenovirus protein VII and specific antibodies, scientists can now design even safer vaccines in the future.

 

Impeachment Motion Against the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC)

Introduction

The Election Commission of India is one of the most important constitutional institutions ensuring free and fair elections in India. The head of this body is the Chief Election Commissioner of India (CEC).

Because the Election Commission must remain independent from political pressure, the Constitution provides strong protections for the CEC, including a strict procedure for removal from office. This removal process is commonly referred to as impeachment, though technically the Constitution uses a procedure similar to the removal of a Supreme Court judge.

This topic is important for UPSC Prelims, GS-II (Polity & Governance), and interviews.

---

Constitutional Provisions

The removal of the CEC is governed by Article 324 of the Constitution of India.

Key points

• The CEC can be removed only in the same manner as a judge of the Supreme Court.

• This ensures independence from the executive.

The removal procedure is based on proved misbehaviour or incapacity.

---

Procedure for Removal of the CEC

The process follows the same procedure as the removal of a Judge of the Supreme Court of India under the Constitution.

Step-by-step process

1️⃣ A motion for removal is introduced in either House of Parliament.

2️⃣ The motion must be supported by:

• 100 members of Lok Sabha, or

• 50 members of Rajya Sabha.

3️⃣ The Speaker/Chairman may admit the motion.

4️⃣ An investigation committee examines the allegations.

5️⃣ If the committee finds the charges valid, both Houses must pass the motion with:

• Special majority

  • Majority of total membership

  • Two-thirds of members present and voting

6️⃣ The motion is then sent to the President of India, who orders the removal.

---

Why Such Strong Protection Exists

The Election Commission conducts:

• Lok Sabha elections

• State Assembly elections

• Presidential elections

• Vice-Presidential elections

Therefore, the CEC must be independent of political influence.

If the government could easily remove the CEC, the credibility of elections would be compromised.

---

Difference Between CEC and Other Election Commissioners

Position	Removal Procedure
Chief Election Commissioner	Same as Supreme Court judge
Other Election Commissioners	Can be removed by the President on recommendation of the CEC

This makes the CEC the most secure position in the Election Commission.

---

Why the Issue of Impeachment Matters

Discussions about impeachment motions against the CEC usually arise due to:

• allegations of bias

• decisions related to election management

• concerns about institutional neutrality

Such debates highlight the importance of institutional accountability while preserving independence.

---

Importance for Indian Democracy

The independence of the Election Commission of India is critical for:

• maintaining electoral integrity

• ensuring level playing field for political parties

• protecting democratic legitimacy

A transparent and strict removal process helps maintain public trust in elections.

---

Previous UPSC Question (Similar Theme)

UPSC has previously asked about the removal procedure of constitutional authorities.

Example concept-based question:

Which of the following constitutional authorities can be removed in the same manner as a judge of the Supreme Court?

• Chief Election Commissioner

• Comptroller and Auditor General

• Chief Justice of India

Understanding these removal procedures is important for Prelims and Mains.

---

Conclusion

The provision for the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner reflects the Constitution’s emphasis on institutional independence and accountability.

By requiring a rigorous parliamentary procedure and special majority, the Constitution ensures that the Election Commission remains free from political pressure, while still allowing Parliament to act in cases of serious misconduct.