Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 20th September 2024 - Humanities/Arts MCQ

The National War Memorial is designed in a C-hexagon layout. This unique architectural shape is significant as it allows for the incorporation of various elements that pay tribute to Indian soldiers, such as the Amar Chakra and the Tyag Chakra. The design not only serves a commemorative purpose but also enhances the aesthetic appreciation of the memorial. An interesting fact is that the memorial was inaugurated on February 25, 2019, to honor soldiers who fought in significant conflicts involving India.

Veer Abdul Hameed was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra, which is India's highest military honor. He earned this award for his extraordinary bravery during the Battle of Asal Uttar in the 1965 India-Pakistan War, where he famously destroyed multiple enemy tanks. This recognition highlights not only his courage but also the valor exhibited by soldiers during critical military engagements. An additional fact is that a memorial, including a captured Patton tank, stands at the site of his valorous deeds, serving as an enduring tribute to his legacy.

The Supreme Court ruled that telecom companies were required to pay their Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR) dues along with interest and penalties for any overdue payments. This ruling was significant as it upheld the government's stance on the definition of AGR, which includes various revenue sources. The payment of dues was mandated to occur in annual installments from April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2031. An interesting aspect of this situation is the financial implications for telecom operators, as the total AGR dues amounted to approximately ₹92,000 crores, significantly impacting their operations and financial planning.

The White Revolution 2.0 initiative primarily aims to empower women farmers and modernize the dairy infrastructure in India, focusing on increasing milk production and procurement. By enhancing the role of women in dairy cooperatives and improving facilities, the initiative seeks to uplift the rural economy and promote gender equality in agricultural sectors. An interesting fact is that the original White Revolution, initiated in the 1970s, transformed India into one of the largest producers of milk in the world.

The significant expected outcome of the US Federal Reserve's decision to cut interest rates is an increase in foreign investments in India. Lower interest rates often encourage investors to borrow more and invest in emerging markets like India, as the potential for higher returns can be attractive. This influx of capital can bolster economic growth in India. An additional fact is that interest rate cuts in the US can lead to fluctuations in currency values, impacting trade balances globally.

A common symptom of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM) is severe headaches. PAM is caused by the Naegleria fowleri amoeba and can lead to rapid progression of symptoms, including fever, nausea, and confusion, often culminating in coma. The disease is serious and often fatal, highlighting the importance of awareness about the conditions that can lead to infection. Interestingly, PAM cases are extremely rare, with only a handful reported each year in the United States.

A mini-moon refers to a small asteroid that is temporarily captured by Earth's gravitational field. Unlike the permanent moon, which orbits Earth consistently, mini-moons have a limited duration in orbit before they escape back into space. This phenomenon is quite rare, as most asteroids either pass by Earth or burn up in the atmosphere.

The food processing sector in India accounts for approximately 12.22% of employment generated in all registered factory sectors, engaging millions in this vital industry. It has been recognized as a 'Sunrise sector' due to its significant role in connecting farmers with both domestic and international markets, and it is supported by various government initiatives aimed at enhancing its growth.

The Harappan Civilization is renowned for its advanced urban planning, characterized by well-planned cities featuring a grid layout and sophisticated drainage systems. These systems included covered drains and individual toilets connected to a centralized network, indicating a high level of concern for hygiene and public sanitation, which was quite advanced for its time.

The FATF emphasized the necessity for substantial improvements in the prosecution of money laundering cases in India, despite recognizing the effectiveness of the country's anti-money laundering and counter-terrorism financing system. This highlights a critical gap in India's legal framework, where investigations may increase, but actual prosecutions and convictions remain low, indicating a need for reform and efficiency in the judicial process. An essential point to note is that delays in prosecution can hinder the overall effectiveness of anti-money laundering measures, impacting the country's international standing in financial compliance.