Daily Current Affairs MCQ: 8th January 2025 - Bank Exams MCQ

The primary safety concern in rat-hole mining is inadequate ventilation and the lack of structural support, which leads to dangerous conditions for miners. These factors contribute to frequent accidents and fatalities. The confined spaces of the mines can lead to dangerous gas accumulation, and without proper support, the tunnels may collapse. An interesting fact is that the National Green Tribunal (NGT) cited these dangers when imposing a ban on rat-hole mining, highlighting the need for safer mining practices to protect workers' lives.

Nitrogen Use Efficiency (NUE) is defined as the ratio of crop yield to the quantity of nitrogen absorbed from the soil or atmosphere. It is a crucial measure for optimizing fertilizer usage in agriculture, as higher NUE indicates that crops are better at utilizing available nitrogen for growth, leading to improved yields without excessive fertilizer application. This efficiency not only helps in maximizing productivity but also minimizes environmental impact, addressing concerns such as nitrogen runoff and greenhouse gas emissions. An interesting fact is that enhancing NUE can play a significant role in sustainable agricultural practices, particularly in regions where nitrogen fertilizer costs are high or where environmental regulations are stringent.

The UJALA scheme aims to enhance energy efficiency by replacing traditional and CFL bulbs with energy-efficient LED bulbs. This initiative helps households reduce energy consumption, ultimately leading to significant electricity savings and a reduction in carbon emissions. Notably, the program has positioned India as a leader in the world's largest zero-subsidy LED lamp distribution initiative, showcasing the government's commitment to sustainable energy practices.

The region affected by the earthquake averages 4-5 km above sea level and is part of the Himalayas, which are formed by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This high-altitude area presents unique geological vulnerabilities, making it prone to seismic activity. Additionally, the Himalayas are often referred to as the "third pole" due to their vast water reserves that are crucial for millions of people.

Kalpeni Island is correctly described as lying southeast of Kavaratti Island, positioned midway between Androth and Minicoy. This geographical positioning is significant as it places Kalpeni within the rich marine biodiversity of the Lakshadweep archipelago, which is known for its coral reefs and clear waters. The archipelago itself is located in the Arabian Sea, making it an important area for both ecological studies and tourism. Interestingly, the island's unique geographical features not only contribute to its natural beauty but also make it a great location for various water sports like snorkeling and scuba diving.

The box-cutting procedure in rat-hole mining involves creating a rectangular opening, which can range from 10 to 100 square meters, leading to a vertical pit that is between 100 to 400 feet deep. After locating the coal seam, miners then dig horizontal tunnels, referred to as rat-holes, for coal extraction. This method is particularly notable for its depth and the scale of excavation involved. Interestingly, rat-hole mining has been a controversial practice due to its environmental impact and safety concerns, leading to regulatory measures in various regions.

The Panch Pran are essential principles designed to steer India's development with the goal of becoming globally respected. These principles emphasize values such as social harmony, family enlightenment, environmental consciousness, self-reliance, and civic duties. By focusing on these areas, the framework aims to create a united and responsible society that values tradition while promoting sustainable development. Interestingly, the concept of self-reliance, or Swadeshi, resonates with the broader Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, which seeks to empower local industries and reduce dependency on foreign products.

The Tipeshwar Wildlife Sanctuary is indeed located in the Yavatmal district of Maharashtra, making Option A the correct choice. This sanctuary is notable for its lush greenery, which is supported by several rivers, including Purna, Krishna, Bhima, and Tapti. The presence of these rivers helps maintain the biodiversity within the sanctuary, contributing to its reputation as a "Green Oasis." In addition, the sanctuary is home to a rich variety of wildlife, which thrives in this well-watered environment.

Rat-hole mining is characterized by the use of narrow pits that are typically just large enough for one individual to descend and extract coal. This method is labor-intensive and relies on basic tools, which contributes to its high risk and hazardous nature. Interestingly, this method not only raises serious safety concerns due to inadequate ventilation and structural support but also poses significant environmental threats, such as land degradation and water pollution.

The National Cadet Corps (NCC) was indeed established in 1948, and its origins can be traced back to the University Corps, which was formed under the Indian Defence Act of 1917. This organization was created to address personnel shortages within the Army, highlighting how the NCC has evolved to become an integral part of India's youth engagement in defense and service. An interesting fact is that the NCC not only prepares cadets for military service but also instills values of leadership, discipline, and community service among the youth.