Current Affairs Quiz - June, 2024

Notes:
Thismia malayana, a newly discovered mycoheterotrophic plant in Peninsular Malaysia’s rainforests, steals nutrients from underground fungi instead of performing photosynthesis. It thrives in low-light forest understories, with specialized flowers pollinated by fungus gnats. Typically 2 cm long, it grows near tree roots or rotten logs and is highly sensitive to environmental changes, earning a Vulnerable status on the IUCN Red List.

Notes:
India declared Nagi and Nakti bird sanctuaries as new Ramsar Sites, boosting the nation’s count to 82, tied for third globally. Nagi, a man-made reservoir in Bihar’s Jamui district, hosts diverse migratory birds like Bar-headed geese and Red-crested Pochard. Nakti sanctuary, also in Jamui, serves as a vital wintering habitat for over 20,000 birds and supports rich fauna like Bengal fox and Monitor Lizard. Both sanctuaries contribute to the biodiversity of the Ganga basin.

Notes:
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) and Peru’s central bank (BCRP) have partnered to create a UPI-like payment system in Peru. This makes Peru the first South American country to adopt NPCI’s technology, enabling instant payments between individuals and businesses. The initiative aims to expand digital payments among Peru’s large unbanked population.

Notes:
India, the US, South Korea, Japan, and the EU have formed a Biopharmaceuticals Alliance. The first meeting was in San Diego during the Bio International Convention 2024. Biopharmaceuticals, derived from living organisms, are set to comprise 50% of future medical drugs. The alliance aims to prevent drug shortages like those during the COVID-19 pandemic by diversifying and mapping the pharmaceutical supply chain, ensuring a resilient and sustainable system.

Notes:
Distinguished Indian wildlife conservationist and biologist A J T Johnsingh passed away at 78 in Bengaluru on June 7, 2024. Born in Tamil Nadu’s Western Ghats, he was influenced by Jim Corbett’s tales. Johnsingh joined the Wildlife Institute of India and played key roles in tiger conservation and various organizations. His research focused on diverse species, and he authored over 70 scientific papers and 80 popular articles on wildlife conservation.

Notes:
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) now automatically deposits duty drawback payments into exporters’ bank accounts. This WTO-compliant scheme, under the Customs Act, 1962, rebates Customs and Central Excise duties on imported and excisable materials used in exports. It promotes exports by ensuring they are zero-rated, relieving exporters of specific tax burdens. Eligibility includes goods imported, used, or manufactured from imported or indigenous materials.

Notes:
Rajasthan’s Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma announced a Rs 100 crore investment to develop the Maharana Pratap Tourist Circuit during the Maharana Pratap Jayanti celebration in Udaipur. Places linked to Maharana Pratap’s life in Mewar, including Udaipur and Chittorgarh, will be developed. The Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation will enhance connectivity and tourist amenities. Originally part of the Mewar Complex Circuit, this initiative aims to preserve the region’s historical and cultural heritage.

Notes:
A rare four-horned antelope, also known as Chousingha, was sighted for the first time in Veerangana Durgavati Tiger Reserve, previously Nauradehi Sanctuary. The smallest Asian antelope, Tetracerus quadricornis, is endemic to India and Nepal. These antelopes inhabit dry, deciduous forests and hilly terrains with significant grass or undergrowth cover. Distinguished by four horns, only males grow them. The species is listed as Vulnerable on the IUCN Red List.

Notes:
Iga Swiatek, 23, secured her third consecutive French Open women’s title by defeating Jasmine Paolini. Making history, she’s the first woman since Justine Henin (2005-2007) to achieve this feat. Swiatek, hailing from Poland, currently holds the World No. 1 rank in women’s singles as per the Women’s Tennis Association.

Notes:
The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B) and the Ministry of AYUSH are gearing up for International Day of Yoga (IDY) 2024, slated for June 21. Reviewing preparations, Secretary Sanjay Jaju (I&B) and Vaidya Rajesh Kotecha (AYUSH) focused on media and outreach plans. Various media units under I&B, including Prasar Bharati and New Media Wing, will promote Common Yoga Protocol (CYP) benefits. Prasar Bharati will broadcast special programs via Doordarshan and All India Radio. AYUSH will share the ‘Yoga Geet’ across platforms. The initiative also includes the Antarashtriya Yoga Diwas Media Samman to honor media contributions in spreading yoga awareness.