Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 2nd December 2024 - Bank Exams MCQ

The primary role of the proposed AI Safety Institute is to create frameworks and guidelines for the safe implementation of AI technologies. This initiative aims to encourage innovation while prioritizing safety, ensuring that AI development does not compromise public safety or ethical standards. Unlike regulatory bodies, the institute would focus on setting standards and promoting best practices without imposing stringent regulations that could stifle innovation. An interesting fact about AI safety is that it is a growing field, as many countries are now recognizing the importance of developing ethical guidelines and safety standards to accompany rapidly advancing AI technologies.

A solar storm directed toward Earth can cause significant disturbances in the planet’s magnetic field, leading to radio blackouts and power outages. These geomagnetic storms can disrupt satellite communications, navigation systems, and electrical grids, posing risks to modern technology. While solar storms do not directly harm humans, they can have widespread effects on technology-dependent societies. An additional fact to consider is that stunning auroras, often seen as a beautiful phenomenon during solar storms, are caused by charged particles from the sun interacting with the Earth's atmosphere, creating vibrant displays of light in the sky.

Anthrax primarily spreads among livestock and wild animals through ingestion of contaminated soil, plants, or water. While inhalation can also lead to infection, the most common route is through contaminated water sources. It’s important to note that humans can be infected through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated products, but the direct transmission among animals primarily occurs through ingestion.

The Urs festival at Ajmer Sharif Dargah commemorates the death anniversary of Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti, a revered Sufi saint. This six-day celebration features qawwali performances, special prayers, and various offerings, attracting thousands of devotees from different backgrounds. The festival not only honors the saint’s legacy but also symbolizes the cultural and spiritual syncretism that the dargah represents.

Madhav National Park has received preliminary approval to be designated as a tiger reserve, reflecting a significant step towards conservation efforts aimed at protecting and preserving tiger habitats. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance biodiversity and ensure the survival of the tiger population in India, which has faced threats from habitat loss and poaching. Interestingly, the establishment of tiger reserves not only helps in protecting tigers but also supports the entire ecosystem, benefiting various other species and plant life within the park.

The Red-breasted Flycatcher migrates to South Asia during the winter months to escape the severe weather conditions of Eastern Europe. This migration is a survival strategy that allows the bird to find favorable climates and food sources in milder regions. During its stay in South Asia, from October to March, the flycatcher can be observed in various habitats, including forests and parks, where it feeds and seeks refuge. An interesting fact about migratory birds like the Red-breasted Flycatcher is that they often rely on specific cues, such as changes in daylight and temperature, to initiate their migration.

The Vadhavan Port is projected to have a total capacity of 298 million metric tons (MMT) per annum. This capacity includes approximately 23.2 million TEUs (twenty-foot equivalent units) designated for container handling. This ambitious capacity aims to significantly enhance India's container trade capabilities and position Vadhavan among the top ports globally.

The Vadhavan Port project is being executed by Vadhavan Port Project Limited (VPPL), a special purpose vehicle established specifically for this project. VPPL is a joint initiative of the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), with JNPA holding a 74% share and MMB 26%. This collaboration aims to ensure the successful development and operation of the port, which is expected to be completed by 2034.

The Supreme Court ruled that prior government sanction is essential for prosecuting public servants on charges related to their official duties. This decision emphasizes the need for oversight in prosecuting officials to prevent baseless charges while ensuring accountability for misconduct. This ruling aligns with Section 197 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which protects public servants from prosecution without government approval when acts are conducted in their official capacity. An interesting fact is that this ruling could significantly impact ongoing high-profile cases involving politicians and officials, as it sets a precedent that may lead to the dismissal of charges if proper sanction is not obtained.

High-stress work environments, such as those experienced by urban workers like bus drivers, along with poor nutrition, are significant risk factors contributing to the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in urban settings. Many urban workers face long hours, irregular schedules, and limited access to healthy food options, leading to conditions such as obesity, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases. This situation underscores the importance of improving urban health systems and implementing wellness programs that address the unique challenges faced by these populations. An interesting fact is that studies show that managing stress and promoting healthier lifestyle choices can greatly reduce the risk of developing NCDs among high-risk occupational groups.