Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 2026-03-14 with solutions Attempt Free MCQ

The Directorate of Revenue Intelligence (DRI) is India's apex agency focused on anti-smuggling intelligence and investigations. Established in 1957, its primary function is to detect and prevent smuggling activities, including drug trafficking, thereby ensuring compliance with laws governing international trade. This role is critical in safeguarding public safety and maintaining the integrity of the economy.

Alprazolam is a medication classified as a benzodiazepine and is primarily utilized to treat anxiety disorders and panic disorders. This class of drugs acts on the central nervous system as depressants, enhancing the activity of GABA, a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation. Alprazolam's effectiveness is well-documented in clinical settings, but it must be used cautiously due to potential dependency.

The Supreme Court's ruling clarified that salary income alone cannot be the sole criterion for determining the creamy layer among Other Backward Classes (OBCs). This decision is crucial as it aims to eliminate discrimination against OBC members in the private sector or public sector undertakings, ensuring that individuals are treated equally regardless of their employment status.

Joha Rice has been awarded a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, which signifies its unique qualities tied to its geographical origin in Assam. This recognition not only enhances its market value but also helps promote indigenous agricultural products on an international scale. The GI tag helps protect the rice's reputation and supports local farmers by ensuring that they can market their product effectively.

The Supreme Court's discussion on mandatory menstrual leave highlighted the potential issue that such laws could inadvertently hinder women's career progression. By mandating leave, employers might view female employees as less reliable, which could negatively affect hiring practices and reinforce gender stereotypes, thus posing challenges to achieving true gender equality in the workplace.

The Flag of Convenience (FOC) system enables shipowners to register their vessels in countries with lax regulations, which often results in the evasion of stringent standards and labor laws. This can lead to situations of abandonment where seafarers are left without support, highlighting significant ethical and safety concerns within the maritime industry.

Joha Rice is notable for its health benefits, as it is rich in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid (omega-6) and linolenic acid (omega-3). These nutrients are vital for maintaining various physiological functions and contribute to overall health, making Joha Rice a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

The ongoing conflict in West Asia significantly increases the risks faced by Indian seafarers, including heightened dangers during navigation and a greater likelihood of abandonment by shipowners. This situation is exacerbated by financial strains on shipping companies, which may lead to a lack of support for crews and vessels, leaving sailors in precarious positions.

The Washington Consensus emerged as a dominant framework for economic reform in developing countries during the late 20th century, particularly during the debt crises in Latin America. It comprised ten policy prescriptions aimed at restoring economic stability through methods like fiscal discipline and market liberalization. Its historical significance lies in its widespread adoption and the subsequent debates it sparked regarding the effectiveness of such policies.

The Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) aims to improve access to clean cooking fuel, specifically LPG, for marginalized communities in India. Launched in 2016, this initiative seeks to reduce indoor air pollution, improve health outcomes, and enhance the dignity of women by providing them with cleaner cooking options. This program is a critical step toward promoting public health and environmental sustainability in households.