UPSC Current Affairs Quiz: December 31, 2024
December 31, 2024 January 1, 2025
1. Consider the following:
- Typhon missile system
- BrahMos cruise missile
- Patriot missile system
Which of the above systems is primarily developed for mid-range capabilities?
[A] Only 1 & 2
[B] Only 1
[C] 1, 2 and 3
[D] Only 3
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Only 1]
Notes:
The Typhon missile system is a land-based mid-range missile system developed by Lockheed Martin, with a range of 300 miles. It is designed for the U.S. Army and focuses on archipelagic defense. The BrahMos cruise missile, a joint venture between India and Russia, is primarily a supersonic cruise missile with different operational roles. The Patriot missile system, developed by Raytheon, is primarily a long-range air defense system designed to intercept incoming threats, thus not categorized as mid-range.
2. With reference to India’s advancements in space technology, consider the following statements:
- ISRO’s SpaDeX mission aims to demonstrate in-space docking technology.
- NASA was the first agency to successfully achieve in-space docking with the Gemini program.
- Russia’s Soyuz spacecraft uses a fully automated docking system.
How many of the above statements are correct?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] All three
[D] None
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [All three]
Notes:- ISRO’s SpaDeX mission aims to demonstrate in-space docking technology: This is correct. SpaDeX is focused on developing technology for rendezvous and docking in low-Earth orbit.
- NASA was the first agency to successfully achieve in-space docking with the Gemini program: This is correct. The Gemini program in the 1960s was the first to demonstrate docking capabilities in space.
- Russia’s Soyuz spacecraft uses a fully automated docking system: This is correct. The Soyuz spacecraft is equipped with an automated docking system, allowing it to dock with the International Space Station without manual intervention.
Thus, all statements are correct.
3. Consider the following:
- Asian Development Bank (ADB)
- International Monetary Fund (IMF)
- World Bank
Which of the above is / are multilateral financial institutions that provide funding and support for development projects?
[A] Only 1 & 2
[B] Only 2 & 3
[C] 1, 2 and 3
[D] Only 1
Show Answer
Correct Answer: C [1, 2 and 3]
Notes:
Asian Development Bank (ADB) focuses on poverty reduction and sustainable economic growth in Asia. It provides loans, technical assistance, and grants for development projects. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) aims to promote global monetary cooperation and financial stability, offering financial assistance and policy advice to member countries. The World Bank, comprising the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) and the International Development Association (IDA), provides financial and technical assistance for development projects aimed at reducing poverty and promoting sustainable development globally. All three institutions play crucial roles in international development financing.
4. With reference to Marburg Virus Disease (MVD), consider the following statements:
- MVD was first identified in Germany in 1967.
- The average case fatality rate of MVD is around 70%.
- There is currently mRNA 1325, approved vaccines for Marburg Virus.
How many of the above statements are correct?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] All three
[D] None
Show Answer
Correct Answer: A [Only one]
Notes:- MVD was first identified in Germany in 1967: This is correct. The disease was first recognized in Marburg, Germany, during an outbreak among laboratory workers.
- The average case fatality rate of MVD is around 70%: This is incorrect. The case fatality rate varies widely, typically ranging from 24% to 88%.
- There are currently approved vaccines for Marburg Virus: This is incorrect. As of now, there are no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for MVD.
Thus, only one statement is correct.
5. With reference to India’s current account deficit, consider the following statements:
- Current account deficit is a measure of a country’s trade balance.
- A higher current account deficit indicates a stronger economy.
- Foreign direct investment (FDI) directly reduces the current account deficit.
- Remittances from overseas Indians are included in the current account balance.
How many of the above statements are correct?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] All three
[D] None
Show Answer
Correct Answer: B [Only two]
Notes:- Current account deficit is a measure of a country’s trade balance: This is correct. It reflects the difference between a country’s savings and its investment.
- A higher current account deficit indicates a stronger economy: This is incorrect. A higher deficit can indicate economic weaknesses, such as excessive borrowing.
- Foreign direct investment (FDI) directly reduces the current account deficit: This is incorrect. FDI inflows can improve the capital account but do not directly offset the current account deficit.
- Remittances from overseas Indians are included in the current account balance: This is correct. Remittances are a component of the current account.
Thus, two statements are correct.
The above questions are part of Daily UPSC 20 Current Affairs MCQs Series in GKToday Android Application. This series can be subscribed in the app only for user friendly test with detailed answers and explanations.
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