Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 12th February 2025 - Bank Exams MCQ

The primary theme of the 14th Asian Fisheries and Aquaculture Forum is "Greening the Blue Growth in Asia-Pacific." This theme reflects a commitment to sustainable development within the fisheries and aquaculture sectors, promoting environmentally friendly practices that aim to balance economic growth with ecological health. An interesting fact is that the concept of "blue growth" emphasizes not only the economic potential of marine and coastal resources but also the need to preserve marine ecosystems for future generations.

The forum's significance lies in its focus on showcasing India's contributions to sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. By emphasizing innovative practices and sustainability, the event aims to position India as a leader in the global fisheries sector. This reflects not only India's current achievements, such as its ranking as the second-largest producer of fish and aquaculture, but also its commitment to responsible practices that preserve aquatic ecosystems for future generations. Additionally, sustainable fisheries are critical for ensuring food security and supporting the livelihoods of millions who depend on fishing and aquaculture.

Nearly 90% of forest fires in India are caused by human activities. This statistic highlights the significant role that human actions play in exacerbating the risk of forest fires, which can include practices such as agricultural burning, negligence, and land clearing. An interesting fact is that many forest fires can be prevented with proper land management practices and community awareness programs that inform the public about the risks and consequences of such activities.

The estimated annual economic loss in India due to forest degradation, including fires, is around ₹1.74 lakh crore. This figure reflects the impact of forest destruction on communities that rely on timber and non-timber products for their livelihoods, as well as the broader economic implications of such environmental damage. It emphasizes the importance of sustainable forestry practices and the need for policies aimed at protecting forest ecosystems for economic sustainability.

One of the major environmental effects of forest fires is the loss of biodiversity. Forest fires can devastate ecosystems, leading to the destruction of habitats for countless species, including endangered ones. The loss of trees and other vegetation disrupts the balance of the ecosystem and can take years, if not decades, for the environment to recover fully. An interesting fact is that many animals rely on specific forest habitats for survival, and when these are destroyed, it can lead to population declines and even extinction.

Forest fires in India are responsible for the release of approximately 69 million tonnes of carbon dioxide annually. This significant amount contributes to global warming and climate change, illustrating the far-reaching impact that forest fires have not only on local ecosystems but also on the global environment. Moreover, the increase in greenhouse gases from such fires exacerbates climate change, creating a vicious cycle that can lead to more frequent and intense forest fires.

The Gross Domestic Knowledge Product (GDKP) is designed to evaluate the contributions of knowledge-driven sectors and intellectual assets to the economy. Unlike GDP, which primarily focuses on production and consumption, the GDKP aims to provide insights into how innovation and intellectual capital influence economic growth. This shift acknowledges the growing importance of the knowledge economy in a rapidly evolving technological landscape. An interesting fact is that many advanced economies are also exploring similar metrics to account for intangible assets, reflecting a global trend towards recognizing the value of knowledge in economic indicators.

The primary purpose of the Devolution Index Report is to assess the status of decentralization in India. This report evaluates how various States and Union Territories are progressing in their decentralized governance efforts, focusing on the framework, functions, finances, capacity building, and accountability of Panchayati Raj institutions. Understanding decentralization is crucial for effective local governance, as it allows for more responsive and tailored policy-making at the grassroots level. An interesting fact is that the Devolution Index plays a vital role in promoting cooperative federalism, which aims to enhance collaboration between the central and state governments, ultimately improving governance for citizens.

The UK-India Young Professionals Scheme (YPS) is designed to enable young Indian citizens, aged 18 to 30, to live and work in the UK for up to two years. This initiative aims to foster professional development and cultural exchange between India and the UK. An interesting fact is that this scheme was launched following a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed in May 2021, reflecting a growing collaboration between the two nations in various sectors, including education and employment.

The primary objective of the South Asian Free Trade Agreement (SAFTA) is to enhance trade and economic cooperation among the SAARC nations. This agreement aims to eliminate trade barriers, facilitate the cross-border movement of goods, and ensure equitable benefits among member states. Additionally, it seeks to create mechanisms for effective implementation and dispute resolution, which further promotes fair competition. An interesting fact about SAFTA is that it has been in effect since 2006, following the earlier Preferential Trading Arrangement established in 1993, showcasing the region's commitment to economic collaboration.