Current Affairs Quiz - March, 2024

Notes:
Chhattisgarh’s Chief Minister Vishnu Deo announces significant funds transfer under the Krishak Unnati Yojana in Balod to support farmers. The scheme, fulfilling PM Modi’s promise, offers Rs 3100 per quintal for paddy procurement. Over 145 lakh metric tonnes of paddy were procured from 24 lakh farmers during the Kharif season, benefiting from the MSP and additional Rs 917 per quintal under the scheme.

Notes:
On March 13, 2024, the Union Cabinet approved an agreement between India and Bhutan in food security. The pact involves cooperation between Bhutan’s BFDA, Bhutan’s Ministry of Health, and India’s FSSAI. BFDA will issue health certificates for Indian exports, simplifying trade and lowering compliance costs. This agreement enhances bilateral trade facilitation and underscores the commitment to mutual prosperity between the two neighboring nations.

Notes:
Assam Cabinet has decided to de-notify prime rhino habitat Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary (PWS) in Guwahati suburbs. PWS, on the Brahmaputra’s southern bank, encompasses Rajamayong and Pobitora Reserve Forests, hosting the world’s densest population of Greater One-Horned Rhinoceroses. As part of the Indian Rhinoceros Vision 2020, eight rhinos were relocated to Manas National Park. PWS is also home to diverse wildlife including Wild Water Buffalo, Leopard, and is designated as an Important Bird Area by Birdlife International.

Notes:
The Vajra Sentinel System is an anti-drone technology that can detect, track, and neutralize drones. The system was recently in the news because it is related to defense against unmanned aerial threats. The Vajra Sentinel System was developed by Big Bang Boom Solutions (BBBS) and has secured a contract with the Indian Army and Air Force. The system uses passive radio frequency sensors to identify and track drones. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) recently entered into a contract for the Vajra Sentinel System under the iDEX (Indian Defence Exhibition) initiative.

Notes:
The Madhya Pradesh HC has instructed the ASI to survey the Bhojshala Temple-Kamal Maula Mosque complex to determine its true nature. Hindus have been conducting puja on Tuesdays and Muslims offering namaz on Fridays since April 2003. Situated in Madhya Pradesh’s Dhar district, Bhojshala holds historical and religious importance. Protected under the AMASR Archaeological Survey of India under the Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958, (AMASR Act). At, it was originally a temple built by Parmar King Bhoja in the 11th Century AD, now a Monument of National Importance.

Notes:
The naval forces of China, Iran, and Russia recently launched a joint exercise called the “Maritime Security Belt-2024” near the Gulf of Oman. The exercise, which began on March 11 and lasted until 15, is the fifth common military exercise between the three countries in recent years. The exercise aims to safeguard regional maritime security and strengthen maritime cooperation. The exercise is organized in three phases: harbor, sea, and summarize. The exercise focuses on anti-piracy and search and rescue training courses, and includes the participation of Russian warships and aviation.

Notes:
A recent case of Lyme disease surfaced in Kerala’s Ernakulam district. Lyme disease, caused by Bacterium Borrelia burgdorferi, spreads primarily through infected black-legged ticks’ bites. Not transmissible between humans or through pets, air, food, or water, it’s prevalent in wooded areas worldwide, especially during warmer months. Symptoms include fever, headache, fatigue, and the distinctive “bull’s-eye” rash. Early diagnosis, aided by this rash, is crucial to prevent severe complications affecting the joints, heart, and nervous system.

Notes:
Researchers from IIT Jodhpur, Kanpur, and Palakkad devised a hybrid unmanned vehicle for air and underwater operation, inspired by Anhingas. Utilizing 3D printing, waterproofing, and RC transmission, they crafted a prototype tested for aerial, water surface, and underwater maneuvering. Presented at AIR ’23, their work aims to enhance efficiency for tasks like oil spill mapping and lifeguard rescues. With six maneuvers for smooth transitions, this research advances hybrid vehicle capabilities significantly.

Notes:
Conservationists plan to nominate Kazhuveli watershed region of Tamil Nadu for inclusion in World Monuments Fund Watch 2025, linking local preservation efforts with global attention and action. The World Monuments Fund, founded in 1965, aims to conserve significant architectural and cultural sites worldwide. Headquartered in New York, it operates in 112 countries, partnering with communities, funders, and governments. Its work addresses contemporary issues such as climate change and underrepresentation by leveraging heritage for resilience and inclusivity.

Notes:
A 2023 nationwide study revealed that India has an estimated 10.13 crore individuals with diabetes and 13.6 crore with pre-diabetes. The glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) test, commonly used in diagnosing and managing both type 1 and type 2 diabetes, measures blood sugar levels over time. Hemoglobin, found in red blood cells, transports oxygen throughout the body. This crucial blood test offers insights into diabetes management effectiveness.