Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 11th January 2025 - Bank Exams MCQ

Foot-and-mouth disease (FMD) poses a substantial economic risk by disrupting trade in animals and animal products. When an outbreak occurs, it can lead to trade restrictions and a decline in livestock prices, impacting farmers and the agricultural economy significantly. An interesting fact about FMD is that while it is highly contagious among cloven-hoofed animals, it does not affect humans, which differentiates it from other diseases that can spread between species.

The primary role of the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India is to conduct audits and promote accountability in governance. It serves as the supreme audit institution of India, ensuring that government accounts are accurate and that public funds are used effectively and according to the law. The CAG's audits can lead to significant policy changes and reforms, highlighting its crucial position in maintaining financial integrity within the government. An interesting fact is that the CAG's reports are only made public after being presented in the legislature, allowing for a structured process of scrutiny by the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).

The GenomeIndia project successfully established a comprehensive database encompassing 10,000 human genomes, which is a substantial achievement in the field of genomics in India. This milestone not only highlights India's diverse genetic landscape but also provides valuable data for researchers globally. The project aims to enhance precision medicine, which tailors medical treatment to individual characteristics, making this database a critical resource for future research in understanding disease susceptibility and responses to drugs. An interesting fact is that the project has identified approximately 27 million genetic variants, offering a rich landscape for genetic research and potential breakthroughs in personalized medicine.

The Santa Ana Winds are a crucial factor in the rapid spread of wildfires in Southern California. These winds are known for their strong, dry characteristics, which can significantly enhance the intensity and spread of fires. When combined with dry vegetation and drought conditions, the effects of these winds can lead to devastating wildfire outbreaks, as seen in various regions of California. Interestingly, these winds can also create erratic fire behavior, making firefighting efforts more challenging.

The severe wildfires in California during the winter months were significantly influenced by a pattern of wet weather followed by extreme dryness. This combination led to a buildup of dense vegetation, which then dried out due to the lack of moisture, creating ideal conditions for wildfires. An interesting fact is that drought conditions can exacerbate the risk of wildfires, as dry vegetation serves as fuel, making it easier for fires to ignite and spread rapidly.

At the end of December 2024, only 40.9% of California was reported to be drought-free, which is a significant decrease from 96.65% the previous year. This dramatic shift highlights the increasing severity of drought conditions in the state, which can lead to heightened wildfire risks. Understanding the impact of such environmental changes is crucial for effective resource management and disaster preparedness.

The Santa Ana Winds are characterized by their speed and dryness, making them a major factor in the rapid spread of wildfires in Southern California. These winds can exacerbate fire conditions by increasing the intensity and reach of flames. Interestingly, these winds are often associated with warmer temperatures and can lead to a phenomenon known as "fire weather," which increases the likelihood of wildfires occurring.

Los Angeles experienced its driest start to a water year since 1944, which is a significant historical record. This lack of rainfall has serious implications for water supply and fire risk management in the region. The water year typically runs from October to September, and a dry start can lead to challenges in water availability throughout the year, impacting both agriculture and urban areas. Understanding these patterns is essential for effective environmental planning and response strategies.

The main goal of Project Veer Gatha 4.0 is to celebrate the acts of bravery performed by Gallantry awardees and share their inspiring life stories. This initiative not only recognizes the valor of these individuals but also aims to instill a sense of patriotism and civic values among students. An interesting fact is that this project is part of the broader celebration of India's 75th year of independence, connecting the youth with the nation's historical legacy of bravery and sacrifice.

One of the significant challenges in integrating AI into India's defense sector is the high costs associated with establishing the necessary data centers and infrastructure. These costs can be a major barrier to effective implementation, as robust infrastructure is essential for handling the complex data requirements of AI systems. Interestingly, many countries are also facing similar challenges, and some have begun to explore partnerships with private sector companies to share the financial burden and leverage existing technology. This approach can help accelerate AI integration while managing costs effectively.