Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 23rd August 2024 - UPSC MCQ

1. Joint Consultative Machinery (JCM) - Established in 1966: Correct - The JCM was indeed established in 1966 to foster harmonious relations and cooperation between the Central Government and its employees.

2. WAVES - Inaugural edition in Goa, 2024: Correct - The inaugural edition of the World Audio Visual & Entertainment Summit (WAVES) is scheduled for November 20-24, 2024, in Goa.

3. Gongronema sasidharanii - First recorded in northern India: Incorrect - Gongronema sasidharanii was first discovered in Pampadum Shola National Park, located in Kerala, which is in southern India.

4. Pampadum Shola National Park - Located in Tamil Nadu: Incorrect - Pampadum Shola National Park is located in the Idukki District of Kerala, not in Tamil Nadu.

Thus, only pairs 1 and 2 are correctly matched.

- Statement 1: This statement is incorrect. Glacial lakes are not formed by the accumulation of rainwater but rather by the melting of glaciers. These lakes typically form at the base of glaciers, although they can also develop on, beneath, or within glaciers.

- Statement 2: This statement is correct. Moraine-dammed lakes are indeed a type of glacial lake formed by debris (moraines) left behind by glaciers, which create natural dams.

- Statement 3: This statement is correct. Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) occur when natural dams (like ice or moraines) fail, releasing significant volumes of meltwater and causing sudden flooding downstream.

Therefore, the correct statements are 2 and 3 only, making Option C: 2 and 3 Only the correct answer.

1. Orangutan Diplomacy - Incorrect. Malaysia's Orangutan Diplomacy focuses on using orangutan conservation as a means of soft power, not gifting orangutans to other countries. The strategy involves engaging other nations in conservation efforts.

2. Quantum Nonlocality - Correct. Quantum Nonlocality indeed refers to the principle where particles can instantaneously influence each other's state regardless of the distance separating them.

3. Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) Drugs - Correct. FDC drugs are indeed medications that combine multiple active ingredients in a single dosage form.

4. Panda Diplomacy - Correct. China's Panda Diplomacy involves lending pandas to other countries as a form of soft power to foster international relations.

Thus, the correctly matched pairs are Quantum Nonlocality, Fixed Dose Combination (FDC) Drugs, and Panda Diplomacy.

Statement-I correctly identifies that glacial lakes are formed from the melting of glaciers. Statement-II accurately mentions that ISRO has categorized glacial lakes into four main types based on their formation processes. While both statements are individually correct, Statement-II does not provide an explanation or further detail that directly connects or clarifies Statement-I, hence the correct answer is option (b).

• Statement 1 is correct: The Joint Consultative Machinery (JCM) was indeed established in 1966 with the aim of fostering harmonious relations and cooperation between the Central Government and its employees.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: The JCM does not include all regular civil employees of the Central Government. It specifically excludes employees in industrial establishments primarily working in managerial or administrative roles, those in supervisory positions earning over Rs. 4200 in grade pay per month, Union Territories employees, and police personnel.
• Statement 3 is correct: The National Council, chaired by the Cabinet Secretary, acts as the apex body within the JCM structure.

Thus, the correct answer is Option C.

The primary objective of the internship scheme announced in the Union Budget 2024-25 is to bridge the skills gap and assist young individuals in securing their first jobs by offering one crore internships in 500 leading companies over five years. This initiative aims to provide valuable work experience to individuals, particularly those with lower skill levels and employability, to enhance their job prospects and contribute to their professional development.

Statement-I is correct as it accurately describes Gongronema sasidharanii as a newly identified plant species in Pampadum Shola National Park in Kerala. Statement-II is also correct because it highlights the fact that the Gongronema genus was previously limited to northeastern states and a few other regions in India, making the recent discovery in southern India significant. Statement-II explains the expansion of the Gongronema genus's known distribution in India, supporting and providing context to Statement-I. Thus, both statements are correct, and Statement-II indeed explains Statement-I.

All three statements accurately describe various aspects of Malaysia's 'Orangutan Diplomacy' initiative and the related criticisms:

1. Statement 1 is correct. The initiative has shifted its focus to engaging other nations in conservation efforts, moving away from the initial plan of gifting orangutans to other countries.

2. Statement 2 is correct. Critics have pointed out that Malaysia's efforts lack the comprehensive infrastructure and dedication seen in China's panda conservation programs.

3. Statement 3 is correct. One of the goals of the initiative is to improve Malaysia's international image concerning wildlife conservation and environmental sustainability.

Thus, all the statements are correct, and the correct answer is Option D

The main goal of the Joint Consultative Machinery (JCM) set up by the Central Government in 1966 is to provide a platform for constructive dialogue between the staff representatives and officials, aiming to peacefully resolve disputes between the government and its employees. This mechanism fosters harmonious relations and cooperation, ensuring a peaceful resolution of conflicts and fostering a positive work environment.

(Note: The JCM's non-statutory nature and its function based on mutual agreement are crucial aspects to note in understanding its purpose and operation.)

Malaysia adjusted its 'Orangutan Diplomacy' strategy primarily due to criticisms regarding habitat protection. Critics argued that true conservation efforts should prioritize preserving habitats rather than symbolic actions like gifting orangutans. Malaysia's move reflects a shift towards emphasizing the protection of orangutan habitats, aligning with the necessity to safeguard critical ecosystems for the long-term survival of these endangered species.