Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 12th November 2024 - CLAT MCQ

Gluten plays a crucial role in food processing primarily as a binding agent, which helps maintain the shape and texture of various products. When gluten-containing grains are mixed with water and kneaded, they form an elastic network that gives dough its characteristic chewy texture and allows it to rise. This property is especially valued in the baking industry, where it contributes to the structure and stability of bread and other baked goods. Interestingly, gluten is also used to enhance the protein content of some foods, making it a versatile ingredient in many processed products.

Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (TEN) is primarily characterized by the rapid spreading of painful, red patches on the skin. These patches can quickly escalate into significant skin peeling and compromise mucous membranes, affecting areas such as the mouth and eyes. Unlike conditions that only cause localized rashes, TEN involves extensive damage, making it a critical medical emergency.

Sirpur Lake's designation as a Ramsar site underscores its ecological significance as a vital wetland. Ramsar sites are recognized for their role in maintaining biodiversity and providing essential habitats for numerous species. Specifically, Sirpur Lake supports a diverse array of wildlife, including 189 bird species, making it crucial for conservation efforts and biodiversity in urban settings.

The primary distinction between FPI and FDI is that FPI does not provide direct control or significant ownership in a company, while FDI involves owning at least 10% of a company’s shares, which typically gives the investor a degree of control over business operations. This difference is crucial for understanding how foreign investments influence local economies and corporate governance. An interesting fact is that FPIs are generally more liquid, allowing for quicker transactions compared to the more committed nature of FDIs.

The primary objective of the FCRA 2010 is to regulate foreign donations, ensuring that these contributions do not adversely affect India's internal security, sovereignty, and communal harmony. This regulation is vital for maintaining the integrity of domestic organizations and ensuring that foreign funds support India's developmental goals without compromising its national interests. An interesting fact is that the FCRA was originally enacted in 1976 and has undergone significant revisions to adapt to changing political and social contexts.

The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project is primarily designed to generate hydroelectric power. Once completed, it will produce 2,000 MW of electricity, making it the largest hydroelectric power plant in India. The project utilizes a run-of-river design, which means it generates power by harnessing the natural flow of the Subansiri River without significantly altering its course, thus minimizing environmental impact while contributing to the region's energy needs. An interesting fact is that the Subansiri River, referred to as the "Gold River," is historically known for its association with gold dust due to erosion from the Himalayas.

Dicliptera polymorpha has developed several unique adaptations that enable it to thrive in environments prone to frequent fires. Its fire-resilient nature allows it to survive and regenerate after fire events, while its dual-blooming cycle—flowering both after the monsoon and in response to grassland fires—ensures reproductive success despite challenging conditions. This ecological strategy highlights the species' remarkable ability to adapt to and utilize its harsh habitat effectively. Additionally, such adaptations are vital for the conservation of biodiversity in fire-prone ecosystems.

The 'EV as a Service' programme aims to enhance electric mobility within government offices by introducing 5,000 electric cars over the next two years. This initiative is crucial for promoting environmental sustainability and reducing carbon emissions, aligning with India's broader goals for achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. By providing government departments with a flexible procurement model for electric vehicles, the programme supports the transition to greener transportation options.

The primary challenges facing Germany's automotive industry, particularly Volkswagen, include declining sales and increasing competition, especially from Chinese manufacturers. Volkswagen's struggles are compounded by a late shift towards electric vehicles and heavy reliance on traditional combustion engines, which has left the company at a disadvantage in a rapidly evolving market. This situation reflects broader issues within the German economy, highlighting the need for innovation and adaptation to remain competitive.

Wind energy producers are opposing the new policy because they assert that it fails to adequately promote sustainable wind energy production. They argue that the proposed guidelines do not provide sufficient incentives or support for adapting to new technologies and enhancing financial viability. This opposition highlights the importance of ensuring that regulatory frameworks are conducive to investment and innovation in renewable energy. Interestingly, Tamil Nadu's wind energy capacity is significant, accounting for about 23% of India's total capacity, yet many of its turbines are aging, necessitating effective policies to modernize the infrastructure.