Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 13th November 2025 with solutions - Bank Exams

Ricin is a potent toxin that is extracted from castor beans, specifically from the mash that remains after castor beans are processed for castor oil. This highlights the importance of understanding the origins of various toxins, as ricin's availability from a common plant poses significant bioterrorism risks.

Ricin works by disrupting protein synthesis within human cells, leading to rapid cell death and multi-organ failure. This mechanism makes even small amounts of ricin extremely lethal, which is why it raises concerns regarding its potential use as a bioweapon.

Ricin is categorized under Schedule 1 of the Chemical Weapons Convention, indicating its high risk as a biological agent. This classification demands strict regulation and monitoring to prevent its misuse, reflecting global efforts to combat bioterrorism.

The proposal for amendments was triggered by a viral AI-generated video of Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman endorsing a fraudulent investment scheme, which led to a significant scam. This incident underscores the necessity for stringent regulations regarding synthetic media to combat misinformation.

In response to the blockade, Japan stockpiled rare earths, enhanced recycling efforts, and diversified its supply sources. This proactive approach has significantly improved Japan's resilience against future supply disruptions, demonstrating the importance of strategic resource management.

The WHO report indicates that India experienced a remarkable 21% decline in tuberculosis incidence, from 237 to 187 cases per lakh. This achievement reflects the effectiveness of interventions like community-based screenings and advancements in TB management.

The EPM aims to enhance India’s export competitiveness, particularly in labor-intensive sectors, in response to global trade challenges, including a steep tariff increase by the US on Indian goods. This initiative emphasizes the importance of strengthening India's position in international markets.

Competitive federalism describes the phenomenon where Indian states actively compete to attract business investments, moving away from central control. This competition fosters innovation, improves governance, and enhances administrative efficiency, ultimately benefiting the economy.

The High-Level Committee has proposed mandatory public asset disclosures for SEBI's top officials, aimed at enhancing transparency and accountability. This reform aligns with international best practices and seeks to mitigate conflicts of interest, thereby strengthening regulatory integrity.

The Ni-kshay Portal is a crucial digital platform for tracking tuberculosis case notifications and treatment across public and private health sectors in India. This initiative enhances the management of TB cases and is part of India's broader strategy to combat tuberculosis effectively.