Daily Current Affairs Quiz: January 10, 2024

Notes:
On January 8th every year, Earth Rotation Day is celebrated, and this year, it holds the significance of falling on a Monday. This special day is dedicated to acknowledging the pivotal discovery of Earth’s rotation on its axis. The theme chosen to observe Earth Rotation Day in 2024 is ‘Honoring the Discovery of Our Planet’s Movement.’ This theme invites us to reflect on the historical journey of understanding Earth’s rotation and the impact this knowledge has had on our understanding of the universe.

Notes:
West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee has recently launched the “Yogyasree” social welfare scheme, aimed at providing free training modules for Scheduled Caste (SC) and Scheduled Tribe (ST) students in the state. The initiative focuses on preparing these students for entrance and competitive examinations, demonstrating the government’s commitment to educational empowerment. The Yogyasree scheme includes the establishment of fifty training centers across West Bengal, providing cost-free training for SC and ST students, with a specific emphasis on competitive examinations. Furthermore, 46 centers will extend similar opportunities for those aspiring to secure government jobs and pursue careers in civil services.

Notes:
Scientists have recently made a discovery by uncovering the fossils of a newfound species of carnivorous worm in northern Greenland, aptly named Timorebestia koprii, or “terror beast.” This species is a pioneer among early carnivorous animals that colonized the water column during the early Cambrian period, which occurred approximately 541 million to 485.4 million years ago. The fossils of Timorebestia koprii were found in the Early Cambrian Sirius Passet fossil locality in North Greenland. These ancient creatures were giants of their time and occupied a significant position near the top of the food chain, comparable in importance to some of the top carnivores in modern oceans, such as sharks and seals during the Cambrian period.

Notes:
Tropical Cyclone Alvaro made a significant impact on southwest Madagascar, hitting the region on January 1st, 2024. This marked the first major cyclone influence during the 2023-2024 in the southwest Indian Ocean. The ongoing season, which spans from late October to May, has posed unprecedented challenges to the area, with Cyclone Alvaro being the latest destructive force.

Notes:
The hog deer, previously not recorded in the Rajaji Tiger Reserve, has recently been discovered there, marking a significant finding. Known for its solitary nature, it occasionally feeds in small groups when food is abundant in open fields. Generally sedentary and non-migratory, male hog deer are territorial and use glandular secretions to mark their territory. This species exhibits sexual dimorphism, with females being slightly smaller and lacking antlers. Native to India, including the Himalayan foothill zone and Southeast Asia, hog deer have also been introduced to Sri Lanka, Australia, and the United States. The preferred habitat includes dense forests, though they are often observed in clearings, grasslands, and occasionally wet grasslands, with variations associated with seasonal changes and food distribution. In terms of conservation, the hog deer is categorized as endangered by the IUCN, and it is listed under Scheduled I of the Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. The newfound presence in the Rajaji Tiger Reserve highlights the importance of continued monitoring and conservation efforts for this species.