Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 5th August 2024 - UPSC MCQ

1. Astra Missile: Air-to-air missile developed by DRDO and BDL - Correct. Astra is an air-to-air missile developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for the Indian Air Force.

2. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary: Located on the southern bank of the Ganges River - Incorrect. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the southern bank of the Brahmaputra River in Morigaon district, near Guwahati in Assam, not the Ganges River.

3. Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros: Major species found in Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary - Correct. Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the largest population of Indian One-Horned Rhinoceros.

4. ASTRA Mk-I: Can hit targets 50 to 70 km away head-on - Incorrect. ASTRA Mk-I can hit targets 80 to 110 km away head-on.

Thus, only two pairs are correctly matched.

The recent breakthrough in rice and wheat production involves breeding varieties/hybrids that tolerate the herbicide Imazethapyr, which is used to control competing weeds. This innovation allows farmers to spray Imazethapyr for weed control in these crops, offering a promising solution to weed management in agricultural fields.

The Astra missile is an advanced air-to-air missile capable of engaging targets beyond visual range. This capability allows it to hit faraway targets without direct visual contact, making Statement 1 correct.

The missile is specifically designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) for the Indian Air Force, which makes Statement 2 correct.

However, Statement 3 is incorrect. The Astra missile is equipped with advanced guidance and propulsion technologies that allow it to be used effectively in all weather conditions, day or night, making it versatile and reliable.

Therefore, the correct statements are 1 and 2 only.

Statement-I is accurate. Glioblastoma is indeed a type of cancer that originates from astrocytes, which are a type of star-shaped glial cell in the brain and spinal cord that provides support and nutrition to the nerve cells.

However, Statement-II is correct.The Brahmani is formed by the confluence of the rivers South Koel and Sankh near the major industrial town of Rourkela at 22 15'N and 84 47' E.

Statement 1 is correct. Glioblastoma originates from astrocytes, which are cells that nourish nerve cells.

Statement 2 is correct. Glioblastoma grows rapidly, damaging the healthy tissue it encounters and can occur at any age, although it is more common in older adults.

Statement 3 is incorrect. The main treatments for glioblastoma include surgery, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy, not immunotherapy.

Thus, the correct answer is Option B: 1 and 2 Only.

The Astra missile, designed for fighter jets, primarily aims to hit faraway targets without the need for direct visual contact. This capability makes it a valuable asset for the Indian Air Force in engaging distant and maneuvering targets efficiently. The missile's advanced features, including long-range precision strike capabilities and high-speed flight, enhance the air combat capabilities of the Indian Air Force, making it a significant advancement in modern warfare technology.

- Explanation for Statement I: The statement is accurate. Jhum cultivation, also known as slash-and-burn cultivation, is a common agricultural practice among the Thadou people.

- Explanation for Statement II: This statement is also correct. Thadou settlements are typically found in forested areas, often located on or just below ridges due to various reasons such as security, resource accessibility, or traditional preferences.

- Justification for the Correct Answer (a): The practice of Jhum agriculture is often associated with settling in forested areas, making Statement II an explanation of why the Thadou people practice this form of agriculture.

• Statement I is correct as Astra is indeed a missile designed for fighter jets to engage distant targets without direct visual contact.
• Statement II is also correct as Astra is manufactured in India by DRDO (Defence Research and Development Organisation) and BDL (Bharat Dynamics Limited) specifically for the Indian Air Force.
• Statement II explains Statement I as it provides additional information about the origin and purpose of the Astra missile, supporting the initial statement's context.

- Statement 1 is correct. AMRUT 2.0 indeed promotes data-led governance in water management and technology advancement.

- Statement 2 is correct. The mission spans 500 cities, including all cities and towns with a population exceeding one lakh and notified Municipalities.

- Statement 3 is incorrect. The total estimated outlay for AMRUT 2.0 is Rs 2.99 lakh crore, not Rs 66,750 crore. Rs 66,750 crore is the amount of Central assistance allocated until 2025-2026.

Thus, the correct answer is Option B: 1 and 2 Only.

Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct. Statement-II explains the significance of sub-classification within SCs and STs, emphasizing how it contributes to providing substantive equality of opportunity for the backward classes. This ruling by the Supreme Court highlights the importance of nuanced policies to ensure equitable opportunities for marginalized groups, aligning with the principles of affirmative action.