Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 25th October 2024 - Humanities/Arts MCQ

The ICCR's primary mission is to foster cultural exchanges and promote Indian culture internationally. Established in 1950, it works through a network of cultural centers and various programs to enhance mutual understanding and cultural ties between India and other nations. This includes administering scholarship programs, which allows international students to study in India, further deepening cultural connections.

Economic potential of the area is not a criterion for identifying Key Biodiversity Areas (KBAs). KBAs are recognized for their significance in biodiversity conservation based on criteria related to threatened biodiversity, geographical restrictions, ecological integrity, and other biological processes. The aim is to protect these vital ecosystems from threats, such as extractive industries, which can lead to significant biodiversity loss. Understanding these criteria helps in global conservation efforts aimed at preserving essential habitats.

The Rs 1,000-crore venture capital fund is designed to support approximately 40 space start-ups over the next five years. This initiative aims to drive innovation and attract private investment in India's burgeoning space sector, which is crucial for fostering new technology and entrepreneurial ventures in space exploration.

A major challenge for space start-ups in India is the lack of affordable public liability insurance, which creates financial risks for these ventures. This issue can deter investment and growth, as potential investors may be concerned about the liabilities associated with space activities. Addressing this challenge is critical for enabling a supportive environment for innovation in the space sector. An interesting fact is that insurance for space missions can be particularly costly due to the high risks involved, which can include the loss of expensive equipment and potential damage to populated areas during launches.

The EOS-06 satellite, or Oceansat-3, is specifically developed to monitor and study various aspects of the Earth's oceans and coastal regions. This satellite continues the work of its predecessors, Oceansat-1 and Oceansat-2, ensuring a consistent flow of data for oceanographic and atmospheric research. Its applications include ocean surface studies, coastal zone management, and marine weather forecasting, making it a vital tool for environmental monitoring and resource management.

The Environmental Ship Index (ESI) employs a scoring system that assesses the environmental performance of ships, focusing on their air pollution emissions. By evaluating pollutants such as sulfur oxides (SOx), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and carbon dioxide (CO₂), the ESI aims to incentivize ships to adopt cleaner technologies and practices. This initiative not only promotes better air quality but also plays a crucial role in combating climate change, aligning with global efforts for sustainable maritime operations.

The Asiatic Golden Cat is classified as Near Threatened by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). This status indicates that while the species is not currently at immediate risk of extinction, it faces threats that could lead to a decline in its population. Conservation efforts are crucial for maintaining its habitat and addressing issues such as illegal wildlife trade and habitat destruction. Interestingly, the Asiatic Golden Cat is known for its elusive nature and has been rarely spotted in the wild, making sightings significant for conservationists.

The Asiatic Golden Cat is characterized as a solitary and territorial animal that does not have a specific breeding season, exhibiting polygynous behavior where males mate with multiple females. This behavioral trait allows them to adapt to various environmental conditions and increases their chances of reproductive success. Their elusive and solitary nature contributes to the challenges of studying their population and behavior in the wild. An interesting fact is that their activity patterns have been shown to include both nocturnal and diurnal habits, which provides insights into their adaptability in different habitats.

The primary function of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) is to examine the annual audit reports presented to Parliament by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) and to review government spending to ensure it aligns with parliamentary grants and approvals. This role is crucial for maintaining financial accountability and transparency in government operations. Interestingly, while the PAC's recommendations hold significant moral weight, they are not legally binding, which highlights its role as an advisory body rather than a controlling authority.

The Gram Panchayat-Level Weather Forecasting initiative is designed to empower rural communities by enhancing disaster preparedness and improving agricultural planning. By providing accurate, localized weather forecasts, farmers can make informed decisions about their agricultural activities, ultimately leading to better crop yields and reduced losses from adverse weather conditions. This initiative not only supports sustainable agricultural practices but also strengthens grassroots governance, making communities more resilient to climate challenges. An interesting fact about this initiative is that it utilizes digital platforms to disseminate information, demonstrating how technology can bridge gaps in rural services.