Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 22nd October 2024 - Humanities/Arts MCQ

The eShram One Stop Solution initiative primarily aims to streamline the access of various Social Security Schemes for unorganised workers. By simplifying the registration process, it allows these workers to easily benefit from multiple government welfare schemes. This initiative integrates data from various ministries to provide a more transparent and efficient way for unorganised workers to access the support they need. An interesting fact about eShram is that it enables registration for over 400 different occupations, reflecting its comprehensive approach to worker inclusion.

The male Nilgiri tit Butterfly is characterized by its dark reddish purple-brown coloration and features two black spots that are rimmed in orange near its tails, which distinguishes it from the female, which is a pale brown color. This sexual dimorphism in coloration is common in many butterfly species, as it often plays a role in mating and camouflage. Interestingly, the Nilgiri tit has recently been observed using a new host plant for its larvae, highlighting the adaptability and ecological significance of this butterfly in its habitat.

The Nature Restoration Law (NRL) is primarily focused on restoring degraded ecosystems and enhancing biodiversity across the European Union. This law mandates member states to restore at least 20% of the EU's land and marine areas by 2030, targeting ecosystems with high carbon capture potential and resilience against natural disasters. The NRL represents a significant legislative effort to combat climate change and biodiversity loss, setting a precedent for environmental governance. Interestingly, this law is part of a broader EU Biodiversity Strategy, reflecting a growing recognition of the interconnectedness of ecological health and human well-being.

The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) primarily serves as a platform for scientific and technical collaboration in the nuclear sector, focusing on the safe, secure, and peaceful use of nuclear technology. The agency works with member states to promote nuclear safety, implement safeguards to prevent the diversion of nuclear materials for weapons purposes, and support the peaceful application of nuclear science. Established under its own international treaty, the IAEA plays a critical role in fulfilling the mandates of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT), which aims to prevent the spread of nuclear weapons and promote disarmament. An interesting fact about the IAEA is that it provides a framework for international cooperation in nuclear science, which has significant applications in fields such as medicine and energy.

The newly studied hornet species has the remarkable ability to tolerate alcohol levels that are lethal to other animals without experiencing any side effects. This adaptation allows hornets to consume foods that contain alcohol, showcasing their unique physiological traits. Interestingly, this ability may provide them with a competitive edge in their natural habitat, allowing them to exploit food sources that other animals cannot.

The Z-Morh tunnel serves a crucial strategic purpose by ensuring year-round connectivity between Srinagar and Ladakh, particularly important for military access. Constructed at a high altitude, the tunnel is designed to remain operational even during harsh winter conditions when access routes are often closed due to snow. This infrastructure project is part of a larger initiative aimed at enhancing transportation and supply lines for defense forces, especially in light of ongoing tensions in the region. An interesting fact is that the overall Zojila tunnel project, of which Z-Morh is a part, aims to significantly improve logistics for both civilian and military purposes in a challenging geographical area.

The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh has expressed concerns about the state's declining younger population, which is attributed to low fertility rates falling below the replacement level. This demographic challenge can lead to long-term socioeconomic consequences, such as a shrinking workforce and increased pressure on social services for the aging population. Interestingly, this trend is mirrored in several Southern states, which have historically experienced lower fertility rates compared to Northern states, highlighting a significant shift in India's demographic landscape.

The government plans to introduce specific legal provisions to address hoax bomb threats, which currently fall under general criminal laws. Proposed amendments include barring individuals responsible for such threats from flying by adding them to a no-fly list, similar to existing measures for unruly passengers. This aims to enhance aviation security and deter future threats. An interesting fact is that the rise of fake bomb threats has led to significant disruptions in air travel, affecting not only passengers but also the operational capabilities of airlines and security agencies.

Caenorhabditis elegans is particularly valuable for biological research due to its simple body structure and the fact that it was the first multicellular organism to have its entire genome sequenced. This allows scientists to study various biological processes and genetic functions in a model organism that is easy to manipulate and observe. Additionally, its rapid maturation and ability to reproduce both sexually and asexually make it an ideal subject for genetic studies. Interestingly, its simplicity mirrors some of the basic biological processes found in more complex organisms, including humans.

The primary purpose of India’s nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs) is to ensure a reliable second-strike nuclear capability. This strategic military asset allows India to maintain a deterrent against potential nuclear threats by providing the ability to retaliate after a first strike. SSBNs contribute to strategic stability and are a vital part of India's defense posture, reinforcing the principle of mutual assured destruction that underpins global nuclear deterrence strategies. An interesting fact about SSBNs is their operational endurance, which is primarily limited by crew supplies and maintenance, enabling them to remain submerged for extended periods.