Daily Current Affairs MCQs: 2026-01-22 with solutions - Bank Exams Attempt

Section 17A of the Prevention of Corruption Act, introduced in 2018, aims to protect honest officials from being subjected to frivolous investigations by requiring prior government approval before initiating inquiries against them. This provision was introduced to ensure that sincere public servants are not harassed by baseless allegations, thus maintaining their dignity and integrity.

The Supreme Court's split verdict involved one judge supporting Section 17A for its protective measures for honest officials, while the other judge found it unconstitutional, arguing that it reintroduced ineffective safeguards. This highlights the ongoing debate about the balance between protecting public servants and ensuring accountability in governance.

"Demographic Winter" describes a situation where a country experiences a long-term decline in population, primarily due to consistently low birth rates that fall below the replacement level of approximately 2.1 children per woman. This situation leads to an aging population and increased dependency ratios, posing significant challenges to economic stability and social systems.

The Bombay High Court ruled that protective custody lacks legal justification and must be based on clear grounds. It emphasized that protective homes are intended for rehabilitation rather than confinement, thereby reinforcing adult survivors' rights to personal liberty and freedom under the Constitution.

The Sagar Maitri initiative aims to enhance scientific collaboration among countries in the Indian Ocean Rim by collecting oceanographic and acoustic data. It focuses on long-term research and capacity building, contributing to enhanced underwater domain awareness, which is vital for maritime security.

The proposal to lower the age of juvenility raises concerns that it undermines rehabilitation, equality, and child-centered principles of the juvenile justice system. Critics argue that such changes prioritize punishment over the established goal of rehabilitating young offenders, which is essential for their development and reintegration into society.

The demographic changes in India, characterized by a declining total fertility rate and an aging population, suggest the potential for a demographic disaster if not addressed with appropriate policy measures. Without significant investment in skill development and job creation, the youthful population may face challenges that lead to economic stagnation and social unrest.

A critical flaw in the impeachment process for judges in India is the excessive discretion afforded to the presiding officer at the initial stage. This discretion can lead to arbitrary decisions influenced by political motives, undermining the accountability framework designed to protect judicial independence and integrity.

The RBI's 'State of the Economy' article highlighted positive trends in rural consumption and commercial activities, indicating sustained growth momentum and resilience in domestic demand despite global uncertainties. This optimistic outlook is crucial for maintaining economic stability and growth.

The border fence in Punjab was installed in 1988 during a period of rising militancy, primarily to control infiltration and drug smuggling. This historical context reflects the security concerns of that era, which have since evolved, leading to discussions about relocating the fence to restore access to farmland for local farmers.