Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 20th May 2025 - Humanities/Arts MCQ

The Panchayat Advancement Index (PAI) aims to improve the utilization of available data at the grassroots level, which is essential for informed decision-making in local governance. By providing understandable data linked to sustainable development goals, the PAI empowers local governance and enhances community engagement.

The OCI scheme grants benefits to persons of Indian origin but excludes political rights.

• a)Lifetime visa: A benefit, as OCIs get a lifelong multiple-entry visa for India.
• b) Equal treatment as NRIs: A benefit, as OCIs have parity with NRIs in economic, financial, and educational fields.
• c)Political rights such as voting: Not a benefit, as OCI cardholders, being non-citizens, cannot vote or hold constitutional posts.
• d) Exemption from foreigner registration: A benefit, as OCIs are exempt from FRRO registration.

The DGFT has revised its import policy concerning gold and silver to ensure that customs tariffs comply with trade regulations. This adjustment is part of ongoing efforts to streamline trade processes and enhance compliance with international standards.

The Jal Jeevan Mission is experiencing significant challenges with rising costs, which have escalated the original budget from Rs. 3.6 lakh crore to Rs. 8.29 lakh crore. This increase is due to revised cost estimates, raising concerns about the financial sustainability of the mission.

The GRAIL mission revealed that the near side of the Moon is geologically more active and warmer than the far side. This difference is attributed to variations in internal structures and volcanic histories, as well as tidal deformation caused by Earth's gravitational pull.

Operation Olivia is a conservation initiative focused on protecting Olive Ridley turtles during their mass nesting season. Launched in the early 1980s, it involves monitoring nesting sites and engaging local communities to ensure the survival of these vulnerable species.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) is India’s premier counter-terrorism agency, established to investigate and prosecute serious offenses that threaten national security. It operates under the National Investigation Agency Act, 2008, and has the authority to act on various scheduled offenses across the country.

The Mullaperiyar Dam is contentious primarily due to safety concerns raised by Kerala regarding its structural integrity. Tamil Nadu operates the dam under a long-term lease, and discussions continue about its safety and the potential need for upgrades or decommissioning.

GS1's new generation QR codes aim to improve product traceability and enhance supply chain transparency. The transition will begin with dual codes to maintain compatibility with existing systems, eventually leading to exclusive use of the new QR codes after infrastructure upgrades.

The Central Government's decision to deploy teams for inspecting Jal Jeevan Mission projects aims to address concerns over escalating costs and ensure the quality of project execution. This initiative reflects a commitment to effective governance and accountability in the implementation of vital water supply schemes.