1. When is the “International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists” observed every year by the UN?
[A] November 1
[B] November 2
[C] November 3
[D] November 4
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [November 2]
Notes:
The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (IDEI) is observed on November 2, recognized by the United Nations to protect journalists and seek justice for crimes against them. IDEI was proclaimed by the UN in Resolution A/RES/68/163, marking the 2013 killing of two French journalists in Mali. It aims to tackle violence against journalists, crucial for freedom of expression and access to information. The 2024 theme, “Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies,” focuses on protecting journalists in conflict zones. Journalists in high-risk areas face violence, restricted access, and detention, creating “zones of silence.”
2. What is the primary objective of Pradhan Mantri Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana (PMVKY)?
[A] To empower tribal communities in India
[B] To promote urban development in Assam
[C] To enhance agricultural productivity in hilly areas
[D] To improve infrastructure in cities
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [To empower tribal communities in India]
Notes:
The Pradhan Mantri Vanbandhu Kalyan Yojana (PMVKY) was launched on October 28, 2014, to empower tribal communities in India. It addresses historical neglect by providing financial assistance and promoting sustainable development. The initiative includes the Pradhan Mantri Adi Adarsh Gram Yojana for integrated development in 36,428 tribal villages, focusing on connectivity, education, health, and sanitation. It supports Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups with tailored development projects, allocating ₹15,000 crore for housing, water, sanitation, and education over three years. It provides pre-matric and post-matric scholarships for tribal students and funds research on tribal cultures and challenges. Funds are also allocated for project management units to ensure effective monitoring and implementation of welfare schemes.
3. Where was the 15th edition of India- US joint Special Forces Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR conducted?
[A] Chennai, Tamil Nadu
[B] Houston, USA
[C] Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh
[D] Idaho, USA
Show Answer
Correct Answer: D [Idaho, USA]
Notes:
The 15th edition of Exercise VAJRA PRAHAR took place at the Orchard Combat Training Centre in Idaho, USA. This follows the last exercise held in December 2023 in Meghalaya and is the second joint exercise this year, after Exercise YUDH ABHYAS in Rajasthan. The exercise aims to enhance military cooperation, interoperability, and special operations tactics between the two countries. Activities includes joint planning, reconnaissance missions, using unmanned aerial systems, and psychological warfare drills.
4. Recently, the Indian Space Research Organisation has launched its first analogue space mission in which city?
[A] Leh
[B] Jaisalmer
[C] Chennai
[D] Visakhapatnam
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Leh]
Notes:
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) launched its first analogue space mission Hab-1 or Habitat-1 in Leh, a major milestone for India’s space exploration. Analogue space missions simulate the conditions of actual space exploration on Earth. They are essential for testing technologies and studying human behavior for long-duration space flights. The mission aims to replicate living conditions for astronauts traveling to the Moon, Mars, or asteroids. It focuses on understanding the physical and psychological effects of isolation and confinement. This joint effort includes ISRO’s Human Spaceflight Centre, AAKA Space Studio, the University of Ladakh, and IIT Bombay.
5. What kind of disorder is Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) that was recently seen in news?
[A] A rare neurological disorder
[B] A type of sleep-related breathing disorder
[C] An autoimmune disease
[D] A digestive disorder
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [A type of sleep-related breathing disorder]
Notes:
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is linked to a higher risk of dementia, especially in women, as shown by a study of over 18,500 adults. OSA is the most common sleep-related breathing disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep due to an airway blockage. This disruption in breathing lowers oxygen levels, causing frequent awakenings and poor sleep quality. Symptoms include snoring and fatigue, with risks increasing in middle-aged and older adults. OSA affects cardiovascular health, mental well-being, and safety. Treatments include positive airway pressure devices, mouthpieces, and surgery in some cases.
6. Senna spectabilis, an invasive species, is being eradicated from the forests of which state?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Odisha
[C] Bihar
[D] Gujarat
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
The Madras High Court has mandated the complete removal of Senna spectabilis from Tamil Nadu’s forests by October 1, 2025. Currently, 28,000 tonnes remain, with efforts underway to eradicate this invasive species. The court emphasized that the removal process should not be delayed by negotiations with paper companies for the timber. Additionally, the court is focused on eradicating other invasive species like Lantana camara and Prosopis juliflora to protect the forest ecosystem.
7. What is the objective of the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund in Telangana?
[A] Financial support for ex-servicemen
[B] Construction of new military bases
[C] Recruitment of new soldiers
[D] Organizing military parades
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Financial support for ex-servicemen]
Notes:
The Armed Forces Flag Day Fund in Telangana, chaired by Governor Jishnu Dev Varma, aims to provide financial assistance to ex-servicemen and their families. Recent meetings have focused on immediate relief and long-term support initiatives, including increased grants for families of fallen soldiers, marriage grants for daughters of ex-servicemen, and enhanced monthly assistance for disabled soldiers. The fund also supports educational needs and sports incentives for ex-servicemen and their children, ensuring that those who served the nation receive the necessary care and support.
8. The Asia–Pacific Climate Report 2024 is a new initiative of which organization?
[A] World Bank
[B] Asian Development Bank (ADB)
[C] International Monetary Fund (IMF)
[D] United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Asian Development Bank (ADB)]
Notes:
The Asia–Pacific Climate Report is a new initiative by the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to help the region address climate change through policy reforms. It highlights India’s transition from fossil fuels to clean energy, showcasing key reforms and subsidy reallocations. India has achieved an 85% reduction in fossil fuel subsidies, dropping from 25 billion in 2013 to 3.5 billion in 2023. A cess on coal production funded clean energy projects like the Green Energy Corridor and National Solar Mission. Tax hikes on petrol and diesel have redirected funds to renewable initiatives, improving LPG access in rural areas. National programs support clean energy investments and progress toward India’s 2070 net-zero target.
9. Which institute recently discovered the IL-35 protein as a potential treatment for type 1 diabetes and autoimmune diabetes?
[A] Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati
[B] All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi
[C] Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru
[D] Indian Institute of Public Health, Gandhinagar
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati]
Notes:
Scientists at Institute of Advanced Study in Science and Technology (IASST), Guwahati, discovered a protein IL-35 that can help treat type 1 and autoimmune diabetes mellitus. IL-35 is made of IL-12α and IL-27β chains. It protects against type 1 and autoimmune diabetes by regulating immune cells. IL-35 inhibits immune cells attacking pancreatic beta cells and reduces inflammation. Autoimmune diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is an autoimmune disease where the body attacks insulin-producing beta cells, causing insulin deficiency and lifelong dependence on external insulin.
10. Al-Jawf region, which was seen in the news due to snowfall, is located in which country?
[A] Saudi Arabia
[B] Libya
[C] Morocco
[D] Algeria
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Saudi Arabia]
Notes:
Saudi Arabia’s Al-Jawf region experienced snowfall for the first time in recorded history. Al-Jawf, one of Saudi Arabia’s most fertile areas, has a human history dating back to the Stone Age. Known for olive cultivation, it hosts the world’s largest modern olive farm, as recognized by Guinness World Records. Al-Jawf is also one of the coldest regions in Saudi Arabia during winter.