Test: Weekly Current Affairs: September 22nd to 30th - CLAT MCQ

The Brazilian government declared a state of emergency in six cities due to the severe drought affecting the Amazon region. This declaration is a response to the critical conditions caused by drastically low water levels in major rivers, which hinder transportation and access to essential supplies for local communities. Such measures are often taken to mobilize resources and aid for affected areas quickly.

The drought contributed to an increase in wildfires primarily by reducing precipitation. The lack of rainfall created dry conditions that are conducive to wildfires, leading to a significant rise in fire incidents. In August 2023, the number of wildfires surged to 38,000, marking the highest level in two decades. Drier landscapes are more susceptible to burning, exacerbating the environmental crisis by releasing large amounts of carbon into the atmosphere.

Kaziranga National Park has achieved an impressive 86% reduction in rhino poaching since 2016. This significant decline is attributed to enhanced conservation efforts and the establishment of anti-poaching camps. The successful implementation of these strategies highlights the effectiveness of coordinated governmental and community efforts in wildlife protection.

The main reason for rhino poaching in Assam is the illegal trade of rhino horns, which are highly sought after in traditional medicine and as symbols of status. This demand drives poaching activities, making it crucial to implement protective measures to combat this illegal trade and safeguard the species.

The main goal of the Nagar Van Yojana is to improve the quality of life in urban areas by increasing greenery and creating urban forests. These green spaces are designed to provide recreational areas, enhance environmental benefits, and combat climate change. By focusing on urban forests, the initiative aims to create healthier living conditions and promote biodiversity in cities.

The government allocates Rs. 4 lakh per hectare for the establishment and upkeep of each Nagar Van. This financial assistance is crucial for ensuring that urban forests can be successfully developed and maintained, allowing cities to benefit from enhanced greenery and biodiversity. The funding reflects the government's commitment to environmental sustainability and urban improvement.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake secured 42.31% of the votes in the presidential election, marking a significant shift in Sri Lanka's political landscape. This percentage reflects not just his electoral success but also the growing public desire for change amid economic challenges. Notably, this election's outcome is historic as it signifies a departure from traditional political leadership in the country.

Anura Kumara Dissanayake was the leader of the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna (JVP), a left-wing political party known for its Marxist-Leninist ideology. His leadership transformed the party from its militant roots to one focused on democratic participation and economic issues, which resonated with many Sri Lankans facing difficulties.

The AH-64E Apache attack helicopters are primarily designed to enhance the Indian Army's capabilities against armored threats, such as tanks. Their advanced technology and weaponry make them particularly effective in desert operations, allowing for increased operational efficiency in combat situations. Interestingly, while they excel in certain terrains, they face challenges in high-altitude environments, leading to the development of specialized helicopters like the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH).

In March, the Indian Army formed the 451 Aviation Squadron in Jodhpur specifically to operate the new Apache helicopters. This establishment marks an important development in enhancing the Army's aviation capabilities, as it is the second type of attack helicopter squadron following the Light Combat Helicopter. The formation of this squadron signifies a strategic effort to strengthen operational readiness and combat effectiveness.

The Bihar government's decision to cull Nilgai and wild boars primarily aims to reduce the significant crop damage these animals cause. Farmers have reported extensive losses as these animals raid fields, leading to financial strain. The culling is intended to alleviate these issues and support agricultural production.

The culling operation will commence in five districts where crop damage has been most severe: East Champaran, Vaishali, Buxar, Siwan, and Samastipur. By targeting these specific areas, the government aims to effectively mitigate the impact of these animals on agriculture, thereby supporting local farmers.

Girish Chandra Murmu has been elected as the Chairman of the Asian Organisation of Supreme Audit Institutions (ASOSAI) for the term 2024-2027. This role is significant as it positions India to lead public auditing practices in Asia, enhancing accountability and transparency in government spending across the region.

ASOSAI primarily aims to improve government auditing and ensure financial transparency. This organization consists of Supreme Audit Institutions from various Asian countries that collaborate to enhance accountability in how public funds are spent, fostering trust in governmental financial practices.

The Kasturirangan Committee was primarily focused on creating a National Wildlife Action Plan and identifying ecologically sensitive areas in the Western Ghats. This initiative was crucial for protecting biodiversity and ensuring sustainable development. The committee aimed to balance environmental conservation with the needs of local communities, highlighting the importance of integrating ecological health into regional planning.

The Karnataka government's rejection of the Kasturirangan Committee report was significantly influenced by political pressure and strong opposition from local representatives. Many politicians expressed concerns that implementing the report’s recommendations could adversely affect the livelihoods of local communities, particularly in districts reliant on agriculture and other land-use practices.

The Indian government's initiatives aim to support sugarcane farmers and manufacturers by providing financial backing and creating policies that promote the production of ethanol. This approach not only helps increase the availability of ethanol for blending with fuels but also strengthens the agricultural economy by supporting rural farmers. Interestingly, these initiatives reflect a broader global trend towards renewable energy and sustainability, as many countries seek to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.

The theme "Harmonising Sweet Sustainability: Navigating India’s Path to a Green Economy" emphasizes the importance of developing sustainable practices in the sugar and bio-energy industries. The conference focused on fostering collaboration and innovation to find eco-friendly solutions, showcasing a commitment to environmental sustainability amidst growing energy demands. This theme is particularly relevant as nations strive to transition to greener energy sources and reduce carbon emissions.

Cassowaries play a crucial ecological role by spreading seeds through their droppings, which helps maintain and promote plant diversity in rainforests. This seed dispersal is essential for the regeneration of plant species and the overall health of the ecosystem. Interestingly, cassowaries can adapt their diet based on the availability of fruits, allowing them to thrive even in fragmented habitats.

The Northern Cassowary (Casuarius unappendiculatus) is specifically adapted to live in coastal swamps and lowland rainforests. This habitat choice reflects its ecological needs and the availability of food sources. The presence of different cassowary species in varying habitats highlights the adaptability of these birds to their environments.

The ongoing drought in the Amazon region is primarily attributed to climate change and the El Niño weather pattern, which disrupts normal rainfall patterns. Additionally, changes in the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) and warmer ocean temperatures have further reduced rainfall in the area. Understanding these climatic factors is essential for addressing the challenges posed by recurring droughts and their impact on biodiversity and local communities.

The 2022 census indicated that there are over 2,850 one-horned rhinos in Assam, with Kaziranga National Park being home to 2,613 of them. This increase in population reflects the success of conservation efforts, including community involvement and the establishment of protective measures that foster a safer environment for these endangered animals.

One of the distinctive features of Nagar Vans is the inclusion of Butterfly Conservatories, which are designed to attract and protect butterflies. These conservatories not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of urban forests but also play a vital role in supporting local ecosystems. They serve as habitats for various species, contributing to biodiversity and helping to educate the community about the importance of pollinators in the environment.

One of the primary challenges facing Anura Kumara Dissanayake’s presidency is balancing the traditional values of the JVP with the demands of modern governance. This is particularly important as the JVP has a history of militant activism, and adapting to a democratic political environment will test their ability to govern effectively and maintain public support. Successfully navigating these challenges is crucial for the party's credibility and effectiveness in office.

The Defence Acquisition Council approved the procurement of 156 Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) to meet the needs of the Indian armed forces. This decision reflects India's strategic focus on expanding its attack helicopter fleet, especially considering the identified need for 39 heavy attack helicopters across the military. The LCH is specifically designed for high-altitude operations, showcasing India's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities in challenging terrains.