Current Affairs Quiz - March, 2024

Notes:
The Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Pacific Ocean, face a critical challenge with rising visitor numbers jeopardizing its delicate ecosystem. Comprising 19 islands and numerous islets, this volcanic archipelago hosts rich biodiversity. However, rapid human impact threatens its unique wildlife. Despite its designation as a World Heritage Site in 1978, conservation efforts must intensify to preserve its young, rugged landscape and diverse marine life.

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The Supreme Court has formed an expert committee to preserve the critically endangered Great Indian Bustard, emphasizing the need for sustainable development in line with renewable energy commitments. The bustard, native to India, symbolizes grassland health and faces alarming decline with only 150 individuals remaining, including those in captivity. Classified as Critically Endangered, it holds significant conservation status under international agreements and is the state bird of Rajasthan.

Notes:
The Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Government of India, introduced the Cinematograph Certification Rules 2024 to revamp the film certification process. Last year, the outdated Cinematograph Act of 1952 was amended after nearly 40 years to address certification issues. The new rules, part of ongoing government efforts, aim to regulate the certification and exhibition of cinematograph films effectively. They are a significant step towards modernizing the Indian film industry’s regulatory framework.

Notes:
The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) released a Global Trade Update report noting a 14% increase in India’s services exports in 2023, while goods exports fell by 6%. It anticipates a global trade rebound in 2024. However, logistical challenges like shipping disruptions in the Red Sea and Black Sea may escalate costs and disrupt supply chains. Established in 1964, UNCTAD serves as the primary authority of the UN General Assembly in trade and development matters.

Notes:
ISRO’s START 2024 program is an online training program that teaches space science and technology to undergraduate and postgraduate science and technology students. The program is scheduled to take place in April and May 2024. The main goal of the program is to attract young students to space science and technology.

Notes:
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare introduced ‘Kalpa Suvarna,’ a new dwarf coconut variety, and two cocoa hybrids by CPCRI. ‘Kalpa Suvarna’ is optimal for tender coconut and copra production, blooming 30-36 months after planting. Its fruits are large, oblong, green, with tender nut water content of 431ml, copra content of 186g, and 64.5% oil. Yielding 108 to 130 nuts yearly, it suits Karnataka and Kerala. The cocoa hybrids, VTL CH I and VTL CH II, have high fat and nutrient contents, with CH I suitable for intercropping in Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh, and CH II resistant to black pod rot, fitting high rainfall regions.

Notes:
The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) issued recommendations on the ‘Usage of Embedded SIM for Machine-to-Machine Communications (M2M)’. M2M involves automated interactions between devices over networks, excluding human intervention. Embedded sensors and communication modules facilitate data exchange between devices via wired and wireless networks. Applications range from robotics in factories to Smart Grids and home appliances, enhancing efficiency in sectors like manufacturing, transportation, and utilities.

Notes:
The world’s first Om-shaped temple, ‘Om Aakar’, inaugurated in Jadan, Rajasthan’s Pali district, spans 250 acres. Its Nagara style and intricate design honor North India’s heritage. Holding 1,008 idols of Lord Mahadev and 12 Jyotirlingas, it stands at 135 ft with 2,000 pillars and 108 rooms. The top has a shivling made of rhinestone from Dholpur. A 2 lakh tonne tank enhances its grandeur, visible from space.

Notes:
Thailand issues warning following an anthrax outbreak in Laos. Anthrax is a severe infectious disease caused by Bacillus anthracis bacteria, also known as malignant pustule or woolsorter’s disease. It’s naturally found in soil and affects both domestic and wild animals globally. Anthrax is zoonotic, transferring from animals to humans. The FDA has approved BioThrax and Cyfendus vaccines for prevention.

Notes:
France may become the first country to pass a bill that bans hair discrimination, with the law proposed by Olivier Serva potentially addressing race-based discrimination. The bill is supported by President Macron’s party, but faces opposition.