Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 11th October 2024 - Humanities/Arts MCQ

The average monthly income of rural households in India, as reported in NABARD's 2021-22 survey, was Rs. 12,698. This marked a significant increase from Rs. 8,059 in the previous survey period of 2016-17, reflecting a growth that highlights improvements in rural economic conditions. An interesting fact is that agricultural households reported a higher average income compared to non-agricultural households, indicating the crucial role of agriculture in rural livelihoods.

According to the findings, 44% of agricultural households possessed a valid Kisan Credit Card (KCC). This financial tool is essential for farmers as it provides them with access to credit for agricultural activities. The survey also indicated that among households with land holdings greater than 0.4 hectares, the KCC ownership rose significantly, showcasing the card's importance in supporting agricultural financing. It's noteworthy that KCCs are designed to facilitate the timely availability of credit to farmers, thereby enhancing their productivity and financial stability.

The National Agriculture Code (NAC) is being formulated to provide a comprehensive framework for all agricultural practices in India, addressing various factors such as agro-climatic zones, crop types, and the entire agri-food value chain. By creating standardized practices, the NAC aims to enhance the quality culture in Indian agriculture and serve as a guide for policymakers and farmers alike. This initiative reflects a growing recognition of the need for structured standards that encompass all aspects of agriculture, from crop selection to post-harvest operations.

Footrot disease is characterized by its impact on the interdigital tissue, the area between the toes, of ruminants such as sheep and goats. It is caused mainly by the bacteria Dichelobacter nodosus, leading to severe lameness and economic losses in affected livestock. The disease is highly infectious and tends to be more prevalent during wet conditions, making management challenging once it spreads within a herd. Effective treatment involves prompt antibiotic administration and proper cleaning of the infected area, which can lead to recovery in a few days.

One of the fundamental principles of ASEAN is the non-interference in the internal affairs of its member states. This principle is designed to respect the sovereignty and independence of each country, ensuring that ASEAN operates on mutual respect and cooperation rather than coercion. This approach has fostered a diplomatic environment conducive to dialogue and collective decision-making among diverse nations.

The main objective of the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), established in 2015, is to integrate the member states into a unified market and production base. This initiative aims to facilitate the free flow of goods, services, investments, and skilled labor, thereby enhancing economic cooperation and growth within the region. An interesting fact about the AEC is that it is designed to make ASEAN more competitive globally by allowing member countries to leverage their collective economic strengths.

The Humsafar Policy aims to enhance facilities and amenities for travelers along national highways, focusing on improving safety, comfort, and convenience. This includes establishing rest stops with clean washrooms, food courts, and multi-utility spaces designed to support travelers' needs. By providing these amenities, the policy seeks to ensure a better travel experience and promote road safety, particularly for long-distance travelers and truck drivers.

The Red Panda's long, bushy tail serves two main purposes: it helps the animal maintain balance while climbing trees and provides warmth during colder months by wrapping around its body. This species is classified as endangered on the IUCN Red List, primarily due to habitat loss and the decline of bamboo, which is crucial for its survival. Interestingly, while they are often solitary, Red Pandas are known for their playful behavior and can sometimes be seen interacting with one another in the wild.

The natural aging process is highlighted as a fundamental limit to lifespan, suggesting that even with advancements in medical technology and the eradication of major diseases, aging itself remains a significant challenge. This is crucial because it implies that future research and breakthroughs must focus specifically on targeting the aging process to achieve further increases in life expectancy. Interestingly, some experimental drugs like metformin have shown promise in animal studies for their potential to slow aging, indicating a growing field of research aimed at extending healthy lifespan.

The RBI's establishment of the Reserve Bank Climate Risk Information System (RB-CRIS) aims to address the fragmentation and inconsistency in climate-related data. By creating a centralized data repository with a web-based directory and a standardized data portal, the RBI intends to facilitate better climate risk assessments among regulated entities. This initiative is important for maintaining financial stability and making informed decisions regarding climate-related financial risks. An additional fact to consider is that climate risk management is increasingly becoming a priority for financial regulators worldwide, reflecting a global shift toward sustainable finance practices.