Current Affairs Quiz - January, 2025

Notes:
Scientists are concerned about the potential for ‘zombie deer’ disease, or Chronic Wasting Disease (CWD), to affect humans. CWD is a fatal neurological disease that primarily affects deer, elk, moose, and reindeer. Caused by prions, misfolded proteins that damage the brain, leading to severe dysfunction and spongy tissue. It spreads through body fluids like saliva, feces, blood, and urine, and can remain infectious in the environment for years. Symptoms include weight loss, behavioral changes, and increased drinking and salivation. There is no cure or vaccine, and although there’s no confirmed human transmission, experts remain cautious.

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The Indian Armed Forces conducted Exercise Devil Strike from January 16 to 19. It involved elite airborne soldiers from the Army and Air Force. The exercise was held in training areas and firing ranges. The focus was on refining logistics and sustaining troops in tough conditions. Advanced technologies ensured precise delivery of forces to remote locations. The exercise aimed to enhance operational readiness and adaptability. It emphasized the commitment to maintaining military excellence and preparing for future challenges.

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Siachen Glacier now has 4G and 5G services provided by an Indian telecom firm. It is a piedmont glacier in the Karakoram Range, part of the “Third Pole,” containing vast freshwater reserves. It is the world’s second-longest nonpolar glacier after Fedchenko Glacier in Tajikistan. Known as the highest battleground, India gained control in 1984 under Operation Meghdoot.

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The Forest Department is urging residents of Sheribikanahalli Tanda, in the Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary, to relocate due to the area’s ecological sensitivity. Chincholi Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Kalburgi District, North Karnataka, and spans 134.88 sq.km. It was declared a sanctuary in 2011. It is the first dry land wildlife sanctuary in South India and is also referred to as the Ooty of Telangana. The sanctuary is home to the Chandrampalli dam and four smaller dams. It also shelters the Lambani Tandas, a protected tribal community living in the forest.

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Kalaripayattu, a traditional martial art from Kerala, is included only as a demonstration event in the 38th National Games in Uttarakhand. According to mythology, the warrior sage Parasurama introduced Kalaripayattu. The term Kalaripayattu combines “kalari,” meaning a place of combat, and “payattu,” meaning fighting in Malayalam. Uttarakhand will host the National Games 2025 from January 28 to February 14, 2025.

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Virgin Coconut Oil (VCO) from Andaman and Nicobar recently received the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, boosting its recognition. Women are receiving specialized training in marketing and branding to enhance the product’s reach. VCO is made traditionally, unrefined, unbleached, and free of chemicals or preservatives.

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Former US President Joe Biden highlighted the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC) post the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. IMEC, announced at the 2023 G20 meeting, aims to boost trade between India, the Arabian Peninsula, the Mediterranean, and Europe. Countries involved include India, the EU, the US, UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Germany, and Italy. It features two corridors: eastern (India to Arabian Gulf) and northern (Gulf to Europe). A shipping route links Mumbai and Mundra to the UAE, and a rail network connects the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Haifa. Haifa connects by sea to Piraeus Port, Greece, linking to Europe.

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The 67th National Conference on Mission Viksit Bharat 1947-2047 was held on January 16 at the Indian Habitat Centre, New Delhi. The event aimed to promote the growth and recognition of small businesses, start-ups, individuals, and corporations across India. It featured a panel discussion on ‘Fostering Collective Action: Multi-Sector Collaboration for Promoting Ethics and Responsible Business Practices.’ The summit recognized various professionals and business leaders for their contributions, presenting them with the Business and Community Award.

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Tropical Cyclone Dikeledi hit Mayotte in January 2025, causing severe flooding and displacing 14,500 people. It followed Tropical Cyclone Chido in December 2024, which devastated Southeast Africa with 260 km/h winds, killing 39 and displacing thousands. Mayotte, a French territory in the Mozambique Channel, is part of the Comoros Archipelago in the Indian Ocean. It comprises two islands: Grande Terre and Petite Terre. Colonized by France in 1843, Mayotte chose to remain French in a 1974 referendum. It is the poorest territory of France and the EU, despite its French overseas department status.

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Manchester United Football player Denis Law passed away at the age of 84 on January 18. He began his football career with Huddersfield Town before gaining fame at Manchester United. He spent 11 years at the club, winning league titles in 1965 and 1967 and the European Cup in 1968. He scored 237 goals in 404 appearances, making him the club’s third-highest goalscorer after Wayne Rooney and Sir Bobby Charlton. He formed the iconic ‘holy trinity’ with Charlton and George Best, revered by Manchester United fans. He is the only Scottish player to win the Ballon d’Or, earning it in 1964.