Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 1st May 2025 - Humanities/Arts MCQ

The S8 value is crucial in cosmology as it quantifies the clustering of matter in the universe, specifically indicating how "clumpy" or dense matter is across a scale of approximately 26 million light-years. This parameter helps cosmologists understand the distribution of both visible and dark matter in the universe, which is essential for models predicting cosmic evolution.

The tension in the S8 values arises from differing estimates obtained from various cosmological methods, such as the Cosmic Microwave Background (CMB) measurements, which provide higher estimates, and cosmic shear or lensing surveys, which yield lower estimates. This discrepancy poses challenges to the Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM) model, the prevailing framework in cosmology.

The persistence of bonded labour in India is primarily linked to socio-economic factors such as poverty, illiteracy, and caste-based discrimination. These issues create an environment where vulnerable populations are exploited and forced into situations of bonded labour, despite existing legal frameworks aimed at preventing such practices.

A Notice to Air Mission (NOTAM) is crucial for aviation safety as it provides pilots and relevant personnel with vital information about changes affecting flight operations, such as hazards, closed runways, or unserviceable navigational aids. Reviewing NOTAMs before flights is essential for ensuring safety in the airspace.

The current international landscape is marked by rising authoritarian leadership and protectionism, which create geopolitical tensions. This trend complicates global cooperation and threatens economic stability, as seen in various trade wars and conflicts involving nations led by authoritarian figures.

The resurgence of terrorism indicates new security challenges posed by non-state actors, such as ISIS, which are re-emerging in various regions, including Africa and South Asia. This proliferation of terrorist activities presents significant threats to both regional and global security, necessitating comprehensive counter-terrorism strategies.

A transactional foreign policy can lead to fractured alliances and diminished global influence for the U.S. This approach, characterized by self-serving national interests, often undermines long-standing partnerships and complicates diplomatic relations, particularly in the context of tariffs and trade wars initiated under recent administrations.

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) enhances China's global influence by investing in infrastructure projects that create economic dependencies in partner countries. This strategy allows China to extend its political leverage and reshape regional dynamics, particularly in South Asia, where projects like the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) are pivotal.

The primary purpose of a NOTAM is to inform pilots and relevant aviation personnel about significant changes in airspace, airports, or equipment that could impact flight operations. By providing timely and crucial information, NOTAMs help ensure the safety and efficiency of air travel.

A significant challenge in addressing bonded labour in India is the disconnect between existing policies and their effective implementation. Despite legal frameworks aimed at eradication, systemic issues such as poverty and lack of political will hinder progress, leaving many individuals trapped in exploitative situations. This gap highlights the need for robust enforcement and social mobilization.