Test: Weekly Current Affairs: August 15th to 24th - UPSC MCQ

- Statement 1: This statement is incorrect. Snow leopards are not native to tropical rainforests. They are native to the rugged terrains of Central and South Asia, typically found in cold, mountainous regions. Therefore, statement 1 is false.

- Statement 2: This statement is correct. The snow leopard is indeed classified as Vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) and is listed in Schedule I of the Wildlife (Protection) Act of 1972 in India, which provides it the highest level of protection under Indian law. Therefore, statement 2 is true.

- Statement 3: This statement is correct. Snow leopards are well adapted to cold, mountainous environments and are often referred to as "ghosts of the mountains" due to their elusive nature and excellent camouflage. Therefore, statement 3 is true.

Thus, the correct statements are 2 and 3. Hence, the correct answer is Option C: 2 and 3 Only.

Statement-I correctly identifies India's three-step logic in engaging Namibia, which indeed includes shared history, ongoing cooperation, and future collaboration. This three-step approach is crucial in fostering diplomatic ties and mutual benefits between the two nations. Statement-II accurately highlights Namibia's political stability and resources as key factors that make it a strategic partner for India. Namibia's stability and available resources create a conducive environment for collaboration and growth, aligning with India's interests and objectives. Therefore, both statements are correct, and Statement-II logically explains why Namibia is considered a strategic partner for India, thereby justifying the selection of option (a).

Statement-I correctly explains the purpose and methodology of the Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC), which is indeed a standard method for evaluating food insecurity severity. Statement-II provides additional information directly related to the classification system mentioned in Statement-I, clarifying that famine, the most severe level of food insecurity, is categorized as IPC Phase 5 and is declared under specific criteria. Hence, both statements are accurate, and Statement-II elaborates on the classification system introduced in Statement-I.

- Statement 1: This statement is incorrect. CEREBO is indeed a portable diagnostic device developed by ICMR, but it does not use radiation-based technology. Instead, it utilizes near-infrared spectroscopy combined with machine learning algorithms, making it a radiation-free diagnostic tool, particularly safe for use on infants and pregnant women.

- Statement 2: This statement is correct. Ionic Liquids (ILs) are indeed salts that remain liquid at temperatures below 100°C. The research led by MIT suggests that ILs could serve as alternative solvents for life, especially on rocky super-Earths with volcanic activity where water might be scarce.

- Statement 3: This statement is correct. The development of CEREBO was a collaborative effort involving multiple institutions, including AIIMS Bhopal and NIMHANS Bengaluru. This collaboration ensured that the device underwent thorough clinical validation and received necessary regulatory approvals.

Thus, the correct statements are 2 and 3, making Option C the correct choice.

1. IPC Phase 5 is incorrectly matched. IPC Phase 5 is classified as Catastrophe/Famine, not Crisis. Crisis corresponds to IPC Phase 3.

2. Famine Declaration is correctly matched. A famine is declared when conditions such as at least 30% of children under five suffering from acute malnutrition (wasting) are met.

3. S&P Global Rating Upgrade for India is correctly matched. S&P Global upgraded India's rating from BBB- to BBB.

4. India’s Fiscal Deficit Target by 2025-26 is correctly matched. The projected target for India's fiscal deficit by 2025-26 is 4.4% of GDP.

Pairs 2, 3, and 4 are correctly matched, making a total of three correctly matched pairs.

1. LMLV Payload Capacity: 80 tonnes to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) - Correct. The LMLV is designed to carry up to 80 tonnes to LEO, as mentioned in the key takeaways.
2. LMLV Design: Three stages with all liquid propellant - Incorrect. The LMLV consists of three stages, but only the first two stages utilize liquid propellants, while the third stage operates on cryogenic propellant.
3. UNHCR Establishment Year: 1950 - Correct. The UNHCR was established in 1950 in response to the displacement caused by the Second World War.
4. UNHCR Headquarters: New York, USA - Incorrect. The UNHCR is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, not New York.
The correctly matched pairs are 1 and 3.

1. Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) Account - Requires a minimum balance in the account.
This pair is incorrectly matched. The BSBD account under the PM Jan Dhan Yojana does not require a minimum balance, making it accessible to all individuals, especially the unbanked population.
2. Overdraft Facility - Available up to ₹10,000 for eligible account holders.
This pair is correctly matched. The PM Jan Dhan Yojana provides an overdraft facility of up to ₹10,000 for eligible account holders, offering a financial safety net for the account holders.
3. Accident Insurance - Provides accident cover of ₹2 lakh for accounts opened post-2018.
This pair is correctly matched. Accounts opened after 2018 under the PM Jan Dhan Yojana are eligible for an accident insurance cover of ₹2 lakh, enhancing the financial security of the account holders.
4. Dormant Account - An account with no transactions for over two years.
This pair is correctly matched. According to the Reserve Bank of India guidelines, an account is considered dormant if there are no transactions for more than two years, which matches the criteria provided.
Thus, three pairs are correctly matched, making Option C the correct choice.

The primary objective of the Akshaya project, launched in Kerala in 2002, was to make at least one member of every family digitally literate. This initiative aimed to promote IT access and improve citizen service delivery throughout the state. By achieving this goal, the project sought to enhance overall digital literacy and inclusivity within Kerala, aligning with efforts to bridge the digital divide in the region.

1. Halman Apricot - Indigenous to Himachal Pradesh: Incorrect. The Halman apricot is indigenous to Ladakh, not Himachal Pradesh. It is a variety of apricot that thrives in various regions of Ladakh.

2. Halman Apricot - Renowned for its rich flavor and use in traditional medicine: Correct. Halman apricots are known for their rich flavor and are used in traditional medicine, as well as in Ladakhi cuisine and festive rituals.

3. International Criminal Court (ICC) - Established in 2002 under the Rome Statute: Correct. The ICC was indeed established in 2002 under the Rome Statute, making it the first permanent international court to prosecute individuals for serious crimes like genocide and war crimes.

4. International Criminal Court (ICC) - Headquarters in Geneva, Switzerland: Incorrect. The headquarters of the ICC is in The Hague, Netherlands, not Geneva, Switzerland.

Pairs 2 and 3 are correctly matched.

The Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) was launched with the objective of promoting financial inclusion in the country. It aims to provide banking services to the unbanked, insurance to the unsecured, and credit to the unfunded population. By offering Basic Savings Bank Deposit (BSBD) accounts with various benefits and features like zero balance, minimal paperwork, and e-KYC facility, the scheme seeks to bring more individuals into the formal banking system, thereby enhancing financial literacy and access to banking services in India.

- Statement 1 is correct. The Alaskan Summit indeed reinforced India's sense of vulnerability in U.S.-Russia relations, as it highlighted India's limited influence in these discussions and the lack of significant advantages gained by India from the summit.

- Statement 2 is incorrect. Contrary to the expectation of relief from U.S. sanctions on Russian oil imports, the Modi government did not succeed in negotiating such relief at the summit. The U.S. maintained its stringent sanctions policy, emphasizing a dual strategy to penalize both Russia and India.

- Statement 3 is correct. The principle of strategic autonomy for India emphasizes that it should adhere to sanctions mandated by the United Nations rather than unilateral sanctions imposed by individual countries. This assertion underlines the importance of maintaining India's economic independence and credibility.

Thus, the correct statements are 1 and 3. Therefore, the correct answer is Option C: 1 and 3 Only.

1. Statement 1 is correct. The NITI Aayog report indeed emphasizes the significant economic potential of alternative accommodations like homestays in promoting sustainable tourism growth. It highlights how these accommodations can stimulate growth, create local jobs, and encourage entrepreneurship, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions.

2. Statement 2 is correct. The model policy framework proposed by NITI Aayog includes integrating technology and enhancing cultural authenticity. The objective is to position homestays as a means for regional development, not just as mere accommodation. This approach is intended to simplify processes and support cultural immersion, thus fostering sustainable tourism.

3. Statement 3 is incorrect. Contrary to suggesting heavy regulatory frameworks, the report calls for a light-touch regulatory framework. This approach is focused on digital empowerment and capacity building for hosts, rather than imposing stringent regulations that might hinder the growth of the homestay sector.

Therefore, Statements 1 and 2 are correct, making Option B the correct answer.

1. Digi Keralam Project - Enhancing digital literacy among youth volunteers.
- Incorrect. The Digi Keralam Project aimed to enhance digital literacy among senior citizens, homemakers, and other excluded groups using youth volunteers, but not specifically targeting the volunteers themselves.

2. Akshaya Project - Launched in 2002 to promote IT access in Kerala.
- Correct. The Akshaya Project was indeed launched in 2002 to improve IT access and digital literacy across Kerala.

3. Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (PMGDISHA) - Aims to promote digital literacy in urban areas.
- Incorrect. PMGDISHA specifically targets rural areas to enhance digital literacy, not urban areas.

4. National Digital Literacy Mission (NDLM) - Targeted 52.50 lakh beneficiaries across India.
- Correct. NDLM was designed to promote digital literacy and targeted 52.50 lakh beneficiaries across the country.

Thus, pairs 2 and 4 are correctly matched.

1. Statement 1 is correct. The Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV) is indeed capable of carrying up to 27 tonnes to the Moon and is specifically designed to support India's first human mission to the Moon by 2040. This aligns with the information that the LMLV is developed for significant lunar exploration missions, including the human lunar mission.
2. Statement 2 is correct. The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) was established in 1950 and is governed by the UN General Assembly and the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). This is a key aspect of the UNHCR's operational framework and governance structure, highlighting its international mandate to protect refugees.
3. Statement 3 is incorrect. The LMLV's first two stages utilize liquid propellants, while the third stage operates on cryogenic propellant, not the first stage. This distinction is crucial in understanding the design and operation of the LMLV. The cryogenic stage is typically used in the upper stages of rockets to achieve higher efficiency in space.
Therefore, the correct statements are 1 and 2, making Option B the right answer.

The main purpose behind the development of the Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV) by ISRO is to support India's first human mission to the Moon by 2040. This rocket aims to enhance India's capabilities in space exploration and lunar missions. By developing the LMLV, ISRO is gearing up to achieve a significant milestone in its space endeavors by enabling crewed missions to the Moon, showcasing India's advancements in space technology on a global scale.

1. Wastewater Surveillance - Detects only COVID-19: Incorrect. Wastewater surveillance is not limited to detecting only COVID-19. The ICMR's initiative aims to monitor various pathogens, including COVID-19, polio, and other diseases linked to fever, diarrhea, and respiratory distress.

2. ICMR Initiative - Monitors 10 viruses in 50 cities: Correct. The initiative by the Indian Council of Medical Research involves targeting 10 viruses across 50 cities, as mentioned in the provided content.

3. WBE (Wastewater-Based Epidemiology) - Cost-effective for large populations: Correct. Wastewater-Based Epidemiology is indeed cost-effective and non-invasive, making it suitable for monitoring large populations, as it provides insights into community-level infection trends.

4. UNEP Advocacy - Focuses on animal waste management: Incorrect. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) advocates for expanding wastewater surveillance practices to enhance water quality monitoring, rather than focusing solely on animal waste management.

Thus, two pairs are correctly matched.

Statement-I is accurate as per the provided information about the Lunar Module Launch Vehicle (LMLV) being developed for lunar exploration and India's lunar mission by 2040. Statement-II is also correct, describing the UNHCR's role in protecting refugees and aiding in their repatriation or resettlement. Statement-II provides additional context about a separate subject, but both statements are factually correct in their respective contexts, making option (a) the correct choice.

Statement-I is accurate as Kerala has indeed achieved the status of the first fully digitally literate state in India. Statement-II is also true in that the Akshaya project aimed to make at least one member of every family digitally literate in Kerala. However, Statement-II does not directly explain or provide reasoning for Statement-I. The achievement of Kerala becoming the first fully digitally literate state is a broader accomplishment, while the Akshaya project focused on the specific goal of making individuals within families digitally literate. Hence, both statements are correct but are not directly explanatory of each other.

Let's evaluate each statement for correctness:

Statement 1: This statement is correct. The Digi Keralam Project in Kerala indeed aimed to enhance digital literacy among groups like senior citizens and homemakers who were previously excluded from digital access. The initiative utilized youth volunteers and the K-SMART platform to provide online access services, thus improving inclusion and governance.

Statement 2: This statement is also correct. The Akshaya Project was launched in 2002 by then-President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam. Its goal was to ensure that at least one member of every family in Kerala was digitally literate, promoting IT access and improving citizen service delivery throughout the state.

Statement 3: This statement is correct as well. The University Grants Commission (UGC) has released a draft curriculum framework that emphasizes the inclusion of Indian Knowledge Systems across various undergraduate disciplines. This includes integrating mandala geometry in mathematics and incorporating dharmic perspectives in economics as part of the educational overhaul aimed at aligning higher education with India's cultural and intellectual heritage.

All three statements are accurate and align with the information regarding the digital literacy initiatives in Kerala and the UGC's draft curriculum. Therefore, the correct answer is Option D.

1. Homestay Economic Potential - Stimulates sustainable growth in rural areas: This pair is correctly matched. The report emphasizes that homestays have significant economic potential by stimulating sustainable growth, creating local jobs, and encouraging entrepreneurship, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions.

2. Cultural Value of Homestays - Promoted through heavy regulations: This pair is incorrectly matched. The report suggests a light-touch regulatory framework to enhance the cultural authenticity of homestays, not heavy regulations. The aim is to simplify processes and integrate technology.

3. Modi's Namibia Visit - Focused on knowledge-based cooperation: This pair is correctly matched. One of the key takeaways from Modi's visit was the emphasis on knowledge-based cooperation, exemplified by Namibia adopting India's Unified Payments Interface (UPI).

4. Namibia and India - Concrete agreements on critical minerals: This pair is incorrectly matched. Although discussions on critical minerals, essential for India’s low-carbon supply chains, took place during the visit, they did not result in concrete agreements.

Therefore, two pairs are correctly matched: 1 and 3.

The International Criminal Court (ICC) primarily focuses on prosecuting individuals for serious crimes such as genocide, war crimes, and crimes against humanity. This key jurisdiction of the ICC is crucial in holding individuals accountable for egregious violations of international law, ensuring justice and accountability on a global scale.

The primary focus of NITI Aayog's report titled "Rethinking Homestays: Navigating Policy Pathways" is to harmonize regulations for homestays and foster an inclusive ecosystem. This framework aims to enhance local incomes, support community-based tourism, and stimulate sustainable growth through alternative accommodations like homestays and Bed and Breakfast (BnB). It emphasizes the economic potential and cultural value of such accommodations in promoting sustainable tourism growth, particularly in rural and semi-urban regions.

The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification (IPC) serves as a standard method for assessing and categorizing the severity of food insecurity. By utilizing a five-phase classification system, the IPC helps in determining the level of food insecurity in regions, enabling timely actions and responses. It integrates evidence from various aspects like food access, livelihoods, nutrition, and mortality to ensure accurate assessments and support decision-making processes.

The main purpose of the device CEREBO introduced by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is to provide radiation-free diagnosis of traumatic brain injuries. This portable tool utilizes near-infrared spectroscopy and machine learning algorithms to facilitate quick diagnosis of brain injuries, particularly focusing on improving healthcare access in emergency and rural settings.

1. Snow Leopard - Found in 12 countries including India, China, and Russia.
This pair is correctly matched. Snow leopards are indeed found in 12 countries, including India, China, and Russia.

2. Snow Leopard - Conservation status is Least Concern by the IUCN.
This pair is incorrectly matched. The conservation status of the snow leopard is "Vulnerable" according to the IUCN.

3. African Union - Established in 2002, replacing the Organisation of African Unity.
This pair is correctly matched. The African Union was established in 2002, replacing the Organisation of African Unity.

4. African Union - Headquarters located in Nairobi, Kenya.
This pair is incorrectly matched. The headquarters of the African Union is located in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, not Nairobi, Kenya.

Two pairs (1 and 3) are correctly matched.