Daily Current Affairs Quiz: February 18, 2025

Notes:
Ukraine has acquired the Gravehawk hybrid surface-to-air missile system to counter Russia’s missile attacks. It is developed by the United Kingdom. It targets short-range threats, especially fast-moving airborne objects. Missiles can reach Mach 2.5 and engage targets up to 12 miles away. It is effective against drones, cruise missiles, and low-flying aircraft.

Notes:
The carcass of a 45-50-year-old male elephant was found in Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary (KWS) near the Indo-Nepal border. Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary (KWS) is a protected area in the Upper Gangetic Plain, Uttar Pradesh. It became part of ‘Project Tiger’ in 1987 and is a core area of the Dudhwa Tiger Reserve. The sanctuary has a fragile Terai ecosystem with sal and teak forests, grasslands, swamps, and wetlands.

Notes:
Measles, a highly contagious virus, is resurging in the U.S., especially in Texas, due to low vaccination rates and international travel. It is an airborne disease caused by a paramyxovirus, spreading through direct contact and the air. The virus infects the respiratory tract and can cause severe complications and death. Symptoms start with high fever for 4-7 days, followed by cough, runny nose, red eyes, and white spots in the mouth. A rash appears on the face and neck, then spreads to the whole body, lasting around five to six days before fading.

Notes:
Global Tourism Resilience Day is observed every year on February 17 to highlight the tourism sector’s resilience and adaptability. The day stresses the importance of a strong tourism industry that can recover from setbacks and support economic growth, cultural exchange, and sustainability. Tourism remains vulnerable to global challenges like pandemics, economic crises, and climate change. Established by the UN General Assembly, the day promotes strategies for recovery and collaboration. In 2025, the UN is hosting a global discussion on climate action to advance climate-resilient tourism.

Notes:
Brazil will host the BRICS summit in Rio de Janeiro on July 6-7, 2025. As the 2025 chair, Brazil aims to focus on global governance reform and stronger cooperation among Global South nations. BRICS was founded in 2009 by Brazil, Russia, India, and China, with South Africa joining in 2010. The bloc now has 11 full members: Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, UAE, Ethiopia, Iran, and Indonesia.