Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 8th October 2024 - Humanities/Arts MCQ

The latest census estimates the population of the Indian Wild Ass in Gujarat to be 7,672 individuals. This number reflects conservation efforts and habitat management initiatives aimed at protecting this unique species, which is adapted to thrive in harsh desert conditions. An interesting fact about the Indian Wild Ass, also known as "khur," is its remarkable adaptability to extreme environments, allowing it to survive with limited water resources.

The Rythu Bharosa Scheme is designed specifically to assist farmers in Telangana with their initial investment needs for agricultural and horticultural crops. Under this scheme, farmers receive financial support of ₹5,000 per acre per season, which significantly aids in purchasing necessary inputs for farming. This initiative not only helps to enhance agricultural productivity but also provides much-needed financial relief to small and marginal farmers, thus supporting the overall growth of the agricultural sector in the region. Interestingly, this scheme is part of a broader initiative called the Navratna Scheme, which encompasses various welfare measures for farmers.

The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) primarily regulates tariffs for power generation companies owned or controlled by the Government of India. This role is crucial for ensuring fair pricing in the electricity market, which helps maintain stability and encourages investment in the energy sector. An interesting fact is that CERC also plays a significant role in enhancing grid stability through initiatives like the Availability Based Tariff (ABT), which was introduced in 2000.

The SAARC Currency Swap Framework is designed to provide short-term liquidity support to member countries facing financial crises or instability. It helps stabilize economies by allowing countries to borrow foreign currency to address immediate balance of payment issues. This framework promotes regional cooperation and financial stability, particularly during times of economic distress.

MicroRNA (miRNA) primarily functions to regulate the translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) into proteins. These small RNA molecules bind to mRNA and can inhibit its translation or lead to its degradation, effectively silencing gene expression at the post-transcriptional level. This regulation is crucial for maintaining normal cellular functions and involves processes like development, growth, and metabolism. An interesting fact is that disturbances in miRNA activity have been linked to various diseases, including cancer.

High-Performance Buildings (HPBs) are designed to significantly enhance energy efficiency and promote water conservation, which are critical factors in urban environments facing resource scarcity and high energy demands. By utilizing advanced technologies and sustainable practices, HPBs minimize energy usage and reduce water consumption, making them essential for sustainable urban development. An interesting fact is that HPBs not only aim to lower energy costs but also contribute to improving the overall quality of life for occupants by ensuring healthier indoor environments.

Salt farming and agriculture pose significant threats to the fragile ecosystem of the Indian Wild Ass. These human activities disrupt natural habitats, leading to habitat degradation and increased soil salinity, which can adversely affect the survival of this species. The Indian Wild Ass plays a vital ecological role, including seed dispersal, which helps maintain the health and diversity of its environment. This highlights the delicate balance required for conservation efforts in such ecosystems.

The Indian government has mandated that foreign investments from countries sharing a land border with India must receive prior approval. This measure was implemented to enhance scrutiny and control over investments, especially in light of security concerns related to Chinese investments. By requiring approval, the government aims to prevent potential threats to national security and to ensure that incoming investments align with India's economic interests. This strategic move reflects India's broader efforts to safeguard its economic framework and internal security against undue foreign influence. Notably, this policy was part of a series of actions taken since the tensions between India and China escalated in 2020.

India's score on the Academic Freedom Index decreased significantly from 0.6 in 2013 to just 0.2 in 2023, indicating a severe decline in academic freedom. This dramatic drop classifies India as "completely restricted," the lowest position since the mid-1940s. This decline is concerning as it impacts democratic values and the integrity of educational institutions, potentially stifling innovation and critical thinking in the long term. An additional fact to consider is that academic freedom is vital for fostering an environment where diverse ideas can be explored, which is essential for a vibrant democracy and a thriving intellectual community.

The meeting between the Prime Minister of India and the President of the Maldives resulted in the establishment of a currency swap agreement, which includes financial support of INR 30 billion and USD 400 million. This agreement is crucial for the Maldives, particularly given its declining foreign exchange reserves. It reflects India's commitment to assist the Maldives in stabilizing its economy and reinforcing bilateral relations amid geopolitical tensions.