Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 18th December 2024 - UPSC MCQ

Statement I is correct as Moldova indeed signed the ISA Framework Agreement, showcasing its dedication to renewable energy. Statement II is also accurate as the ISA aims to mobilize significant investments in solar energy and achieve a substantial capacity of solar energy by 2030. Statement II explains why Moldova's signing of the ISA Framework Agreement is significant in the context of the alliance's ambitious goals. Hence, both statements are correct, and Statement II provides additional context that supports Statement I.

Statement-I correctly states that Wroughton’s free-tailed bat is primarily found in the Western Ghats region, as mentioned in the provided information. However, Statement-II is incorrect as the bat is classified as Data Deficient by the IUCN, not as Critically Endangered. The IUCN classification for this species has evolved over time, and the current status is Data Deficient due to insufficient comprehensive data, as mentioned in the source material.

- Statement 1 is correct. The short neck clam (Paphia malabarica) is indeed the first fishery in India to receive certification from the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). This certification is significant as it recognizes sustainable fishing practices and proper management of fishery resources.

- Statement 2 is incorrect. The decline in clam populations is not primarily due to overfishing or lack of market demand. Instead, it is attributed to environmental challenges such as pollution, the introduction of non-native species like the Charru mussel, and climate change effects, including altered salinity and water temperatures. These factors have significantly impacted the clam populations in Ashtamudi Lake, rather than market demand issues.

- Statement 3 is correct. The release of clam seeds into Ashtamudi Lake is a conservation effort intended to replenish the declining clam populations. This initiative is crucial for supporting the livelihoods of local fishermen who depend on clam fishing, as the clam is an economically important species in the region.

Thus, the correct statements are 1 and 3, making Option C the correct answer.

The primary goal of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) is to mobilize USD 1,000 billion in solar energy investments by 2030. This ambitious target aims to promote solar energy solutions globally, combat climate change, and provide energy access to a significant portion of the global population. Through initiatives like 'Towards 1000', the ISA focuses on investment, energy access, and the installation of 1,000 GW of solar energy capacity to drive sustainable energy practices worldwide.

1. Global Solar Facility: Correctly matched. It was launched during COP27 to catalyze solar investments in underserved regions, particularly in Africa.

2. ISA CARES: Incorrectly matched. ISA CARES focuses on providing innovative solar energy solutions for healthcare systems in low- and middle-income countries, not for agricultural practices.

3. Scaling Solar Applications for Agricultural Use (SSAAU): Correctly matched. This program aims to increase the availability of solar-powered water pumps to support agricultural practices.

4. Program on Solarizing Heating and Cooling Systems: Incorrectly matched. This program focuses on addressing the growing demand for solar-based solutions in heating and cooling systems across commercial, industrial, and residential sectors, not specifically in healthcare.

Thus, only pairs 1 and 3 are correctly matched.

1. Kerch Strait - Connects the Black Sea to the Mediterranean Sea: Incorrect. The Kerch Strait connects the Black Sea to the Sea of Azov, not directly to the Mediterranean Sea. The strait is crucial for maritime navigation in Eastern Europe, particularly for Russian exports.

2. Crimean Bridge - Longest bridge in Europe: Correct. The Crimean Bridge, completed in 2018, is indeed the longest bridge in Europe, measuring 19 kilometers (12 miles) and providing road and rail connectivity between the Taman Peninsula of Russia and the Kerch Peninsula in Crimea.

3. One Nation, One Election - Concept of holding simultaneous elections for Lok Sabha and state assemblies: Correct. The concept of "One Nation, One Election" aims to synchronize the elections for the Lok Sabha and state legislative assemblies, allowing voters to cast their votes for both on the same day.

4. Cimmerian Bosporus - Ancient name for the Kerch Strait: Correct. The Kerch Strait was historically known as the Cimmerian Bosporus, named after the ancient nomadic group, the Cimmerians. This name reflects its historical significance and the presence of ancient civilizations in the region.

Hence, three pairs are correctly matched.

Releasing three million seeds of the short neck clam into Ashtamudi Lake is aimed at supporting the declining population of this economically important species. This conservation effort seeks to replenish the diminishing numbers of the short neck clam, which has faced challenges due to various factors such as pollution, the introduction of non-native species, and climate change effects. By releasing these seeds, the initiative aims to address the decline and help sustain the livelihoods of fishermen reliant on clam fishing in the region.

To determine the correct answer, let's analyze each statement based on the provided information:

1. Statement 1: Wroughton’s free-tailed bat is primarily found in the Eastern Ghats of India.

- This statement is incorrect. Wroughton’s free-tailed bat is mainly found in the Western Ghats, with additional sightings in the Jaintia Hills of Meghalaya and an isolated individual recorded in Cambodia. There is no mention of the Eastern Ghats as its primary habitat.

2. Statement 2: It is classified as Data Deficient by the IUCN.

- This statement is correct. The current IUCN classification of Wroughton’s free-tailed bat is Data Deficient, reflecting a lack of comprehensive data on the species, although it was previously considered critically endangered.

3. Statement 3: This species is known for its role in pollination and insect population control.

- This statement is correct. Wroughton’s free-tailed bat plays a vital ecological role by regulating insect populations and aiding in plant pollination.

Therefore, statements 2 and 3 are correct, making Option D: 2 and 3 Only the correct answer.

Answer: Option B

• Both statements are correct. Statement-I accurately describes the Kerch Strait's connection between the Black Sea and the Sea of Azov and its strategic importance for the export of Russian commodities like grain and oil.
• Statement-II is also correct in stating that the Crimean Bridge, completed in 2018, is the longest bridge in Europe and provides vital road and rail connectivity.
• However, Statement-II does not explain Statement-I; it merely provides additional information about infrastructure in the same geographical area.
• The strategic importance of the Kerch Strait for exports, as mentioned in Statement-I, is not directly explained by the construction or existence of the Crimean Bridge as indicated in Statement-II.

Wroughton’s free-tailed bat is known to primarily roost in caves or shaded, humid areas. This habitat preference is crucial for their survival as it provides the darkness and warmth they need for roosting and breeding. These bats are essential for regulating insect populations and aiding in plant pollination, making their habitat preservation crucial for ecosystem health.