1. Cnemaspis vangoghi, recently seen in news, belongs to which species?
[A] Lizard
[B] Spider
[C] Fish
[D] Frog
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Lizard]
Notes:
Scientists from the Thackeray Wildlife Foundation in India discovered Cnemaspis vangoghi, a new lizard species in Tamil Nadu’s Southern Western Ghats. Named after Vincent Van Gogh, it measures up to 3.4 cm and sports a striking coloration reminiscent of ‘The Starry Night’. Preferring rocky habitats, it can be found on buildings and trees. Alongside C. vangoghi, another species, Cnemaspis sathuragiriensis, was identified in the same region. Both species inhabit low-elevation forests in the Srivilliputhur-Megamalai Tiger Reserve.
2. Point Calimere Wildlife Sanctuary, recently seen in news, is located in which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Maharashtra
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
The Forest Department conducted the annual wildlife census at Point Calimere, located in Kodiakkarai, Tamil Nadu. Also known as Cape Calimere, it’s situated on the Coromandel Coast, about 9 km south of Vedaranyam. This area boasts historical significance with structures like the Kodi Kuzhagar temple from the Chola period and a Chola lighthouse, destroyed during the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. The forests here are remnants of the East Deccan dry evergreen forests ecoregion.
3. Mataberi Pera & Pachra, recently got a GI tag, belongs to which state?
[A] Tripura
[B] Assam
[C] Mizoram
[D] Nagaland
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Tripura]
Notes:
Traditional products from Tripura, Matabari Pera Prasad and Rignai Pachara textiles, have recently earned Geographical Indication (GI) tags, bringing the state’s total to 4 GI protected products. Matabari Pera Prasad, a sweet from Tripureswari temple, is made from milk and sugar. Rignai Pachara textiles, traditional hand-woven attire, symbolize Tripura’s cultural heritage. These products’ GI recognition highlights their significance and authenticity, attracting global attention and marketing opportunities.
4. Utkal Diwas 2024, recently seen in news, is related with which state?
[A] Odisha
[B] Bihar
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Telangana
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Odisha]
Notes:
Utkal Diwas, also known as Odisha Day, commemorates the formation of Odisha on April 1, 1936. It signifies the state’s cultural and historical significance, marking the end of a struggle for a separate identity from British colonial rule. Celebrated annually, it showcases Odisha’s rich heritage through festivities, including decorations and cultural displays. The state flag’s colors symbolize Odia pride and unity, highlighting the event’s importance in preserving the region’s traditions and identity.
5. What is the theme of World Autism Awareness Day 2024?
[A] Empowering Autistic Voices
[B] The Transition to Adulthood
[C] Inclusive Quality Education for All
[D] Assistive Technologies, Active Participation
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Empowering Autistic Voices]
Notes:
World Autism Awareness Day, observed annually on April 2nd, advocates for improving the lives of individuals with autism and promoting their human rights. Established by a UN resolution in 2007, the day raises public awareness and encourages inclusive actions. The 2024 theme, “Empowering Autistic Voices,” emphasizes amplifying the voices of those with autism. Its goal is to ensure they enjoy dignity, participation, and rights on par with others in society.
6. REC Limited, recently won the SKOCH ESG Award 2024, comes under which ministry?
[A] Ministry of Power
[B] Ministry of Defence
[C] Ministry of Agriculture
[D] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Power]
Notes:
REC Limited, a Ministry of Power entity, clinched the SKOCH ESG Award 2024 in ‘Renewable Energy Financing’. This accolade acknowledges REC’s dedication to sustainable financing, driving the shift towards renewable energy. As a pivotal player in India’s clean energy transition, REC spearheads numerous sustainable projects and engages in discussions with developers across various green sectors. The SKOCH ESG Awards highlight organizations’ commitment to environmental, social, and governance factors, crucial for India’s sustainable future.
7. SCORES 2.0 initiative, recently seen in news, launched by which institution?
[A] RBI
[B] SEBI
[C] NABARD
[D] IEA
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [SEBI]
Notes:
SEBI launched SCORES 2.0, enhancing complaint resolution for investors in securities markets. The system features auto-routing, auto-escalation, and monitoring by designated bodies, reducing complaint resolution timelines. SCORES is an online platform for lodging complaints. The new version is more user-friendly and aims for quicker complaint resolution. An application for SCORES will also be launched later.
8. Recently, an anti-dumping probe has been initiated on ‘insoluble sulphur’ imports from which countries?
[A] France and Germany
[B] China and Japan
[C] Russia and UK
[D] Japan and France
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [China and Japan]
Notes:
An anti-dumping investigation has commenced on imports of ‘insoluble sulphur’ from China and Japan. Insoluble sulphur, an amorphous form of sulfur, doesn’t dissolve in carbon disulfide. Widely utilized as a rubber additive, especially in automobile parts like tires and shoes, it acts as a vulcanization accelerator, enhancing rubber quality and durability through cross-linking. This process, vital in the rubber industry, improves product wearability and overall quality.
9. Recently, which organization have successfully conducted a flight test of ‘Agni Prime’, a medium range ballistic missile (MRBM)?
[A] DRDO
[B] ISRO
[C] NASA
[D] CNSA
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [DRDO]
Notes:
India’s DRDO and Strategic Forces Command successfully tested the ‘Agni-Prime’ ballistic missile at Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha. Range sensors, including two ships, captured data. Witnessed by top officials, Agni-P is a medium-range ballistic missile with nuclear capabilities, designed as successor to Agni-I and II. It boasts a 1,000-2,000 km strike range, advanced technology from Agni-IV/V, and features composite materials for lightweight and strength. It’s a two-stage, solid-fueled, road-mobile missile with dual navigation.
10. Recently, which country conducted the joint naval exercise with US, Australia & Japan?
[A] Hong Kong
[B] Philippines
[C] Indonesia
[D] Thailand
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Philippines]
Notes:
The Philippines, alongside the United States, Japan, and Australia, conducted joint naval drills in April, 2024, in the South China Sea, aimed at strengthening military cooperation amidst China’s regional influence. This exercise precedes a trilateral summit involving the Philippines, Japan, and the US, highlighting efforts to bolster security ties in the face of growing tensions in the Asia-Pacific.