Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 28th November 2024 - CLAT MCQ

The PAN 2.0 Project aims to enhance and modernize the processes related to the issuance and management of Permanent Account Numbers (PAN) and Tax Deduction and Collection Account Numbers (TAN). This initiative is focused on re-engineering taxpayer registration services to make them more efficient and user-friendly, integrating multiple platforms into a single system, and establishing PAN as a universal business identifier. A noteworthy aspect of this project is its emphasis on a fully online and paperless process, which contrasts with the traditional methods that required physical paperwork.

The king cobra, scientifically known as Ophiophagus Kaalinga, is predominantly found in mid-elevation rainforests, particularly thriving between altitudes of 500 and 900 meters. This species is endemic to the Western Ghats region of southwestern India, where it prefers environments that offer ample cover and access to its prey. An interesting fact about the king cobra is its unique reproductive behavior; unlike other snakes, female king cobras build nests for their eggs and exhibit protective behavior, which is rare among reptiles.

Hyundai was one of the eight automakers identified for exceeding fleet emission levels, facing a significant penalty for non-compliance with the Corporate Average Fuel Efficiency (CAFE) norms. The government imposed fines to enforce stricter emission regulations, underscoring its commitment to reducing pollution and promoting sustainable practices in the automotive industry. Interestingly, Hyundai's penalty was reported to be nearly 60% of its earnings for that financial year, highlighting the financial impact of these compliance measures on automakers.

The primary objective of the CAFE norms is to regulate fuel consumption and carbon emissions from passenger vehicles. By establishing standards for fuel efficiency, the norms aim to reduce oil dependency and curb air pollution, thus contributing to environmental sustainability. An interesting fact is that these norms apply to a wide range of vehicles, including those powered by various fuels like petrol, diesel, LPG, CNG, as well as hybrids and electric vehicles, reflecting a comprehensive approach to vehicle emissions.

The 'One Nation One Subscription' initiative aims to centralize journal subscriptions for approximately 6,300 government-run higher education institutions (HEIs) in India. This program is designed to provide equitable access to a vast array of scholarly journals, thereby improving the availability of academic resources and promoting research and development across the country. By consolidating subscriptions under a single platform, it seeks to streamline access and reduce costs associated with overlapping subscriptions.

The Information and Library Network (INFLIBNET) Centre has been designated as the implementing authority for the One Nation One Subscription initiative. INFLIBNET plays a crucial role in managing library consortia and facilitating access to electronic journals and databases for higher education institutions across India. This centralized approach not only simplifies the process of accessing academic resources but also enhances the overall research capabilities of institutions involved. An interesting fact is that this initiative aligns with India's broader goals of enhancing research and educational standards as outlined in the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The transition to online learning in response to poor air quality raises significant concerns regarding children's nutrition and social skills. Schools do not just provide education; they also offer essential services such as mid-day meals and opportunities for social interaction. Prolonged online learning can limit children's exposure to peer interactions, which are crucial for their social development, and can lead to inadequate nutrition if meals are not provided at home. This issue highlights the multifaceted role schools play in children’s lives beyond mere academic instruction. Interestingly, studies show that social skills developed in early childhood have a lasting impact on later success in life, making this concern particularly critical.

A major limitation of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) is that it primarily focuses on addressing only extreme air quality levels, neglecting the ongoing issue of chronic pollution that can affect health even at moderate levels. This reactive approach means that while immediate health risks are somewhat mitigated during severe pollution episodes, it fails to recognize and address the continuous exposure to harmful air quality that can lead to significant health issues over time. This oversight can result in minimal health benefits while exacerbating educational disruptions and inequalities. Interestingly, chronic exposure to even moderate air pollution levels has been linked to long-term health effects, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, underscoring the need for a more comprehensive and proactive strategy.

The primary objective of UNSC Resolution 1701 is to ensure the disarmament of Hezbollah and other armed groups in Lebanon, maintaining the sovereignty of the Lebanese state over its territory and preventing foreign military presence without government authorization. The resolution also aims to halt hostilities between Israel and Hezbollah and to establish a buffer zone to protect civilians. This resolution emerged from the conflict triggered by Hezbollah's attacks on Israel in July 2006, which highlighted the need for international intervention to restore peace and stability in the region.

The recent ceasefire agreement allows Israel to redirect its focus towards countering Iranian influence in the region. This strategic shift is crucial for Israel as it aims to isolate conflicts involving groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, particularly in light of ongoing tensions and military engagements. By establishing a ceasefire with Hezbollah, Israel can regroup its forces and concentrate on broader regional threats, especially those posed by Iranian support for militant groups. This approach underscores the interconnected nature of regional conflicts and military strategies.