Daily Current Affairs Quiz: March 20, 2024

Notes:
Genetic rescue is proposed to conserve Ranthambore National Park’s tiger population by introducing new genetic variation through migration. This process, known as gene flow, involves transferring individuals from a larger, healthier population to a smaller one. The strategy aims to reduce genetic load, decrease extinction risk, and enhance the viability of endangered species. However, it can have both positive and negative effects, influenced by factors like gene flow magnitude and duration, as well as population dynamics.

Notes:
Delhi was labeled as the world’s most polluted capital city in the 2023 World Air Quality Report by Swiss Organization IQAir. India ranked third in air quality with an average annual PM2.5 concentration of 54.4 µg/m³. Bangladesh and Pakistan were worse off, while Bihar’s Begusarai was named the most polluted metropolitan area. Ten of the top 11 polluted cities were Indian, with Lahore being the only exception. 96% of India’s population faces PM2.5 levels exceeding WHO guidelines.

Notes:
Exporters aiming for duty concessions on shipments to the UK must comply with new British regulations under the Developing Countries Trading Scheme (DCTS). Introduced by the UK Government, DCTS aims to integrate developing nations into the global economy, fostering trade partnerships and strengthening supply chains. It offers simpler, more generous preferential trading terms, reducing or eliminating tariffs on imports from 65 eligible countries, benefiting UK consumers and businesses while excluding certain upper-middle-income nations and those with UK free trade agreements.

Notes:
The Election Commission of India initiated “Mission 414” in Himachal Pradesh to boost voter turnout in 414 polling stations with less than 60% participation in the last Lok Sabha elections. Ground-level outreach aims to educate voters about their rights. Additionally, in 8 Assembly constituencies with lower female voter turnout, “Mahila Preraks” will encourage women to vote, marking a concerted effort to ensure inclusive participation in the democratic process.

Notes:
E-Crop, a crop simulation model, offers growers SMS advice on water and nutrient needs. Developed by Santhosh Mithra of CTCRI, Kerala, it received a patent from the Indian Patent Office retroactively from 2014. Farmers utilize the ‘krihi kruthya’ app to record and transmit soil moisture data to the server for analysis. This innovative device aids farmers in optimizing water and nutrient management for enhanced crop yields.