Test: Weekly Current Affairs: December 22nd to 31st - CLAT MCQ

The "Track and Trace Mechanism" is designed to enhance accountability by placing unique identification marks on products and their packaging. This system allows for the tracking of goods as they move through the supply chain, which helps mitigate tax evasion and ensures compliance with tax regulations. An interesting fact is that such mechanisms are increasingly being employed globally to improve transparency and efficiency in supply chains, particularly in industries prone to fraud.

The WHO has endorsed GLP-1 receptor agonists, which are medications that mimic hormones involved in appetite and blood sugar regulation, as new treatment options for obesity. This endorsement highlights the need for medical interventions alongside traditional methods like diet and exercise, acknowledging that obesity is a complex issue requiring multifaceted solutions. An interesting fact is that obesity rates have drastically increased since 1990, with rates among adults doubling and quadrupling among adolescents globally.

The primary purpose of the $500 million loan from the Asian Development Bank is to support environmentally sustainable projects. This initiative aims to enhance infrastructure development in India by incorporating green practices, thereby aligning with the country's climate objectives and promoting sustainable economic growth. An interesting fact is that the establishment of a dedicated sustainability unit within the India Infrastructure Finance Company Limited (IIFCL) will help ensure that projects meet environmental standards, showcasing a significant commitment to sustainable development in infrastructure.

The allocation of Rs.2044 crore is aimed at strengthening local governance and empowering communities in Uttar Pradesh and Andhra Pradesh. This funding allows rural local bodies to address their development needs more effectively, thereby enhancing grassroots democracy. By providing financial resources, the government enables these bodies to manage local priorities across various sectors, thus fostering self-reliance and improving the quality of life in rural areas.

The main objective of the SVAMITVA scheme is to provide legal documentation of property ownership for individuals in rural areas. By doing so, it empowers property owners, helps reduce disputes related to land ownership, and facilitates access to financial services. This legal recognition is critical for individuals to leverage their property for loans or credit, ultimately supporting their economic development. An interesting fact is that this scheme also aims to improve local governance through enhanced property tax collection, which can fund essential community projects.

The Kaveri engine is specifically designed to bolster India's capabilities in aerospace technology, particularly focusing on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This initiative aligns with India's strategic goal of achieving self-reliance in defense technology and reducing reliance on foreign systems. The engine’s development, which transitioned from initial designs aimed at manned aircraft to a version suitable for UAVs, reflects a significant shift in focus to enhance operational independence in aerospace.

Dr. Manmohan Singh served as the Finance Minister under Prime Minister PV Narasimha Rao and was instrumental in initiating the economic liberalization of India in 1991. This period marked a pivotal shift from a controlled economy to one that embraced market reforms, which included reducing government control, attracting foreign investment, and encouraging private enterprise. This transformation significantly shaped India's economic landscape and growth trajectory.

The LVM3 rocket has achieved the capability to place satellites into multiple orbits during a single launch. This is a significant milestone for ISRO, as it enhances the operational flexibility of satellite deployments. This capability is enabled by the new multi-element ignitor for the CE-20 Cryogenic engine, allowing for engine restarts in space, which is crucial for accurately positioning satellites in their designated orbits. This advancement positions India as a notable player in the global space industry, facilitating more efficient satellite launches and operations.

Brigadier General Amitabh Jha served as the Deputy Force Commander of UNDOF, starting in April 2023. This position is crucial in overseeing peacekeeping efforts and maintaining stability in conflict-affected regions, particularly during challenging times such as those following the fall of the Assad Government in Syria. His leadership was integral to the success of the mission, emphasizing the importance of strong military command in international peacekeeping operations.

The M-Sand 2024 policy aims primarily to enhance the production of manufactured sand while promoting sustainable practices in the construction industry. This initiative is significant as it addresses the increasing demand for sand, which is crucial for construction, while also focusing on environmental sustainability by reducing reliance on natural river sand. This dual approach helps protect local ecosystems and supports economic growth within the state. An interesting fact is that manufactured sand, or M-sand, is produced by crushing rocks and stones, which makes it a more sustainable alternative compared to extracting natural sand from riverbeds.

The net profit for scheduled commercial banks increased by 32.8% in FY24, reaching a total of ₹3.49 lakh crore. This substantial increase indicates that Indian banks have effectively navigated challenging economic conditions, leading to improved profitability. The rise in net profit is a positive sign for the banking sector, reflecting strong financial health and operational efficiency.

Norovirus is commonly referred to as the "stomach flu," although it is not actually related to influenza. This highly contagious virus is known for causing acute gastroenteritis, which leads to symptoms like vomiting and diarrhea. Interestingly, norovirus outbreaks are particularly prevalent during the winter months, hence the nickname "winter vomiting bug." Understanding this terminology is important for recognizing the virus's impact on public health, especially in communal settings like schools and nursing homes.

The primary purpose of the World Audio Visual Entertainment Summit (WAVES) 2025 is to unite industry leaders and creators to discuss trends, challenges, and opportunities in the audio-visual sector. This summit aims to foster innovation and collaboration among participants, thereby contributing to the growth of the creator economy. Engaging discussions at such events often lead to new partnerships and creative projects, showcasing the evolving landscape of the audio-visual industry.

The GST Council reduced the GST rate on fortified rice kernels from 18% to 5%. This change aims to make essential goods more affordable for consumers, especially in a country where nutrition is a significant concern. Additionally, reducing taxes on staple foods can help alleviate financial pressures on lower-income households, ensuring better access to vital nutrients. A related fact is that fortified rice kernels are often used in food security programs to combat malnutrition.

Bio-bitumen offers significant environmental benefits, including a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by at least 70% compared to fossil-based bitumen. This is largely because bio-bitumen is made from lignin, a renewable resource found in plant material, which not only lowers the carbon footprint but also utilizes agricultural waste. This innovation aligns with sustainability goals and promotes eco-friendly practices in construction, contributing positively to climate change mitigation efforts.

The key initiative of the sustainability unit within IIFCL will be to create an environmental sustainability framework. This framework is designed to develop methodologies for assessing the sustainability of proposed projects and ensuring compliance with environmental standards. This step is crucial as it not only aims to maintain ecological balance but also enhances the quality of life for citizens by integrating environmentally friendly practices into national development strategies. A noteworthy aspect is that this collaboration reflects a broader commitment to sustainable development, which can inspire similar partnerships globally.

Untied grants provide Panchayati Raj Institutions the flexibility to address local needs across various subjects outlined in the Eleventh Schedule of the Constitution, excluding administrative costs. In contrast, tied grants are earmarked for specific projects, such as sanitation and water supply improvements. This distinction allows PRIs the autonomy to prioritize their development initiatives based on local circumstances, thus enhancing their effectiveness in governance. Additionally, this model supports the broader goal of promoting local self-governance and sustainable development.

As of the reported date, nearly 2 crore property cards had been distributed under the SVAMITVA scheme. This initiative is significant in empowering rural residents by providing them with proof of ownership, which can be utilized for various financial purposes. The distribution of these cards is crucial as it not only gives individuals a sense of security regarding their land but also helps in formalizing property ownership, thereby promoting transparency and accountability in land records. A noteworthy aspect of the scheme is that it has involved modern technology, such as drone surveys, to ensure accurate mapping of residential land.

The dry version of the Kaveri engine produces thrust within the range of 49-51 kN, which is adequate for powering unmanned aerial vehicles like the Ghatak stealth drone. This thrust capability is crucial for UAVs, which require efficient and reliable engines to perform various missions. Notably, future iterations of the Kaveri engine may include an afterburner to enhance performance, potentially increasing thrust to 73-75 kN for more demanding applications. This evolution underscores the ongoing commitment to advancing India's indigenous aerospace technology.

Dr. Manmohan Singh served as a member of the Rajya Sabha for 33 years, making him one of the longest-serving members in the history of the Indian Parliament. His extensive tenure allowed him to play a crucial role in shaping economic policies and governance in India. This long service reflects his deep involvement in Indian politics and his significant influence on the country's development during that time.

The Sea Level test of the CE-20 Cryogenic engine aimed to effectively simulate its operational capabilities. While this testing method is not standard for cryogenic engines, it was adapted to assess the engine's performance under controlled conditions. This test was supported by a Nozzle Protection System to enhance both effectiveness and cost-efficiency. Such simulations are essential for ensuring that the engine can perform as expected during actual launches, particularly when the engine must operate under varying conditions in space. The CE-20 engine, known for its use of super-cooled fuels, is crucial for missions requiring precise satellite placements, including future endeavors like the Gaganyaan mission.

Before joining UNDOF, Brigadier Jha was a Military Observer with MONUSCO from 2005 to 2006. This experience was vital in developing his skills in conflict resolution and international diplomacy, which he later applied in his role with UNDOF. Military Observers play an essential role in monitoring ceasefires and supporting peace processes, making Jha's background significant for his contributions to maintaining peace in the Golan Heights.

The M-Sand 2024 policy includes various financial incentives for manufacturers, notably stamp duty exemptions and a complete waiver of electricity duty for the first seven years of operation. These incentives are designed to stimulate growth in the M-sand industry and make it financially viable for manufacturers to invest in sustainable practices. This approach not only fosters local business development but also helps create job opportunities within the community. An additional detail is that the commitment to allocate a portion of the produced M-sand to state-funded construction projects ensures that local economies benefit directly from the policy's implementation.

The GNPA ratio for Indian banks improved to 2.5% by September 2024. This continued decline from previous figures indicates enhanced asset quality and effective risk management practices within the banking sector. A lower GNPA ratio suggests that banks are successfully addressing bad loans, which is crucial for maintaining financial stability and supporting future lending activities. Additionally, this improvement reflects the overall health of the economy, as better asset quality often correlates with economic growth.

Consuming raw shellfish without washing is not a recommended prevention measure for Norovirus infection. In fact, it increases the risk of infection since shellfish can be contaminated with the virus. Effective prevention strategies include washing hands frequently, disinfecting surfaces, and staying home after symptoms resolve to prevent spreading the virus to others. An interesting fact is that even a small number of norovirus particles can cause illness, highlighting the importance of strict hygiene practices to control outbreaks.