Current Affairs Quiz - May, 2024

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Archaeological evidence reveals English red squirrels as hosts for leprosy-causing Mycobacterium leprae strains in medieval Winchester, renowned for its leprosarium and fur trade. Leprosy persists in Asia, Africa, and South America. Recent research identifies red squirrels, armadillos, and chimpanzees as natural M. leprae hosts. Red squirrels, arboreal and primarily herbivorous, boast sharp claws for climbing and swimming abilities. Their coat color varies regionally, shedding twice yearly. Found in Coniferous forests, they store excess food in caches, living up to 7 years. Least Concern on the IUCN Red List.

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Archaeologists unearthed a 7000-year-old prehistoric settlement near the Tamiš River in northeastern Serbia. Spanning 11-13 hectares and encircled by 4-6 ditches, it dates to the late Neolithic era. Geophysical techniques uncovered Vinča culture artifacts, highlighting their presence in southeastern-central Europe. This discovery is pivotal, shedding light on the sparse identification of larger Late Neolithic settlements in the Serbian Banat region.

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India’s Ministry of Tourism is actively engaging in the Arabian Travel Mart 2024 in Dubai, aiming to bolster its presence in the Middle East tourism market. At the event, the ‘Incredible India’ pavilion showcases diverse destinations, including hill resorts promoted through the ‘Cool Summers of India’ campaign. This initiative challenges perceptions about India’s climate, promoting it as a year-round destination. Participation holds significant potential for revenue generation and job creation in India’s tourism sector.

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The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) sets the maximum residue limits (MRLs) for pesticides in food products in India. The FSSAI is the country’s apex food safety regulator and is part of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The FSSAI evaluates field trial data on pesticide residues to set MRLs, taking into account dietary exposure and risk assessment. The FSSAI only sets MRLs after the Registration Committee (RC) approves a pesticide. The FSSAI recently increased the MRL for pesticides in herbs and spices from 0.01 mg/kg to 0.1 mg/kg, which is a tenfold increase.

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World Thalassaemia Day, observed annually on May 8th, aims to raise awareness about thalassemia, a genetic blood disorder. The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare held an event in New Delhi, led by Secretary Apurva Chandra, stressing timely detection and prevention. Panos Ennglezos established the day in 1994 in memory of his son George. The 2024 theme is “Empowering Lives, Embracing Progress: Equitable and Accessible Thalassaemia Treatment for All.” Thalassemia affects the production of hemoglobin, crucial for oxygen transport in red blood cells.

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The Uttarakhand government’s Pirul Lao-Paise Pao campaign aims to tackle forest fires. Supreme Court expresses concern over fires that claimed five lives. Forest destruction and air pollution prompt action. CM Dhami launches campaign urging public involvement, including cooperatives and youth groups. Campaign entails collecting pine tree leaves for payment of Rs 50 per kg. Collected leaves sold to industries. Tehsildars oversee collection centers. Goal is to prevent further forest devastation.

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New aerial footage of Batagay Crater reveals its yearly growth as permafrost thaws. Also called the “Gateway to Underworld” or “Doorway to Hell,” it’s the largest permafrost crater globally, located in Siberia, Russia. The crater, formed due to thawing permafrost, has expanded significantly since the 1960s, accelerated by deforestation and climate change. From 1991 to 2018, its area tripled, indicating the alarming pace of environmental change in the region.

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The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued updated Dietary Guidelines for Indians in 2024, developed by researchers from the National Institute of Nutrition in Hyderabad. Emphasizing physical activity, regular exercise, and limitations on salt and high fat/sugar foods, the guidelines aim to combat obesity.

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In Nagaland, Japan’s ambassador Hiroshi Suzuki and CM Neiphiu Rio inaugurated Kohima Peace Memorial and laid Eco Park’s foundation stone. Symbolizing Japan-Nagaland collaboration, it commemorates WWII’s Battle of Kohima, signifying peace and reconciliation. Ambassador Suzuki highlighted the battle’s impact on Nagaland and prayed for all souls involved. He praised the monument’s role in honoring victims. The event holds historical and educational significance, fostering remembrance and respect.

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The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully tested a liquid rocket engine made via 3D printing. ISRO utilized the PS4 engine, employed in the Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle’s fourth stage, for this advancement. 3D printing constructs objects layer by layer from computer-generated designs. It reduces components from 14 to one, eliminates 19 weld joints, saving 97% of raw material, and cuts production time by 60%.