Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 9th December 2024 - Bank Exams MCQ

Under the Copyright Act of 1957, the duration of copyright protection for literary, artistic, dramatic, and musical works is the life of the author plus 60 years. This means that the rights to these works are retained for the lifetime of the creator and extend for an additional 60 years after their death, allowing for a significant period during which the creator's rights are protected. An interesting fact is that this provision encourages the creation of new works by ensuring that creators can benefit from their intellectual property for a substantial time.

The primary goal of creating a 2.5-3 billion tonne carbon sink by 2030 is to enhance carbon sequestration, which is a critical strategy in mitigating climate change. By increasing the capacity of ecosystems to absorb carbon dioxide, India aims to offset emissions and contribute to global efforts in reducing atmospheric greenhouse gases. This initiative is part of a broader commitment to achieve its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) targets and demonstrates India’s proactive approach to balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability. A noteworthy detail is that this effort builds upon the 1.97 billion tonnes of carbon sink already achieved from 2005 to 2019, reflecting a continuous commitment to environmental responsibility.

India has been appointed to chair the 68th session of the United Nations Commission on Narcotic Drugs (CND). This is a notable achievement as it marks the first time India will lead this important UN body, which plays a critical role in shaping global drug control policies and addressing international drug-related challenges. The CND monitors drug trends and assists member states in formulating effective drug policies, reinforcing India's growing influence in international multilateral frameworks.

The Indian star tortoise faces significant threats primarily due to urbanization and agricultural expansion, which lead to habitat loss. As the species is classified as vulnerable by the IUCN and listed in CITES Appendix I, conservation efforts are critical to protect its remaining habitats. This tortoise is primarily herbivorous and requires specific environmental conditions to thrive, making habitat preservation essential for its survival. Additionally, their unique star-like shell patterns and crepuscular behavior contribute to their distinct ecological role, highlighting the need for targeted conservation strategies.

The declaration of the ouster of President Bashar al-Assad by Syrian rebels marks the end of the Syrian civil war, which had lasted over 13 years. This pivotal event not only alters the internal power dynamics within Syria but also impacts the geopolitical landscape of West Asia, especially regarding the roles of Russia and Iran, who have supported Assad. The end of such a prolonged conflict is significant for the region's stability and future governance. Interestingly, this situation highlights how civil wars can lead to dramatic shifts in power and influence, often resulting in unpredicted outcomes for the involved nations.

The urgent need to address severe soil degradation and nutrient deficiencies is a key concern for India's agricultural practices, as emphasized during the 10th World Soil Day. Less than 5% of Indian soils have adequate nitrogen, and there are significant deficiencies in other essential nutrients such as phosphate and potash. This imbalance can lead to reduced agricultural productivity and threatens food security. Additionally, addressing these deficiencies is crucial for the long-term sustainability of agriculture in India. An interesting fact is that improving soil health can significantly enhance crop yields, demonstrating the intricate link between soil quality and agricultural output.

Certain species of damselfish engage in "algae farming," where they actively cultivate and manage their habitats to encourage the growth of desirable algae. This behavior is crucial for coral reef health as the algae provide essential nutrients and habitat for the coral. However, while they benefit the ecosystem through this practice, an excessive population of damselfish can lead to stress on coral reefs, highlighting the balance needed in these marine environments. Interestingly, this behavior showcases the complex interdependencies in marine ecosystems, where even small fish can significantly impact the health of coral reefs.

The Reserve Bank of India's approach to de-dollarization is focused on diversifying risks rather than completely eliminating the use of the US dollar in international trade. This strategy acknowledges the dollar's continued importance while seeking to reduce dependency on it, especially in the context of geopolitical tensions. By promoting trade in local currencies and increasing gold reserves, the RBI aims to create a more resilient economy. It's noteworthy that in 2022, global central banks purchased a record amount of gold, reflecting a broader trend among nations to secure their financial stability against the backdrop of shifting global dynamics.

Crohn's disease is primarily characterized by inflammation in the digestive tract. It is a type of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that leads to chronic gastrointestinal symptoms. Patients may experience a range of symptoms, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and weight loss due to the inflammation affecting the digestive system. An interesting fact is that Crohn's disease can affect any part of the gastrointestinal tract, from the mouth to the anus, and symptoms can begin at any age, although they often appear in early adulthood.

The India Internet Governance Forum (IIGF) 2024 addresses key themes such as cybersecurity and digital inclusion. These themes are critical as they relate to the safe and equitable use of the internet in India. The forum aims to foster dialogue among various stakeholders to ensure that the benefits of the internet are accessible to all, while also addressing challenges like data privacy and the regulation of emerging technologies. An intriguing aspect of the IIGF is its multi-stakeholder approach, which brings together government, private sector, civil society, and technical communities to collaborate on internet governance issues.