Current Affairs Quiz - November, 2024

Notes:
The Padmaja Naidu Zoological Park, located in Darjeeling, India, has become a pioneer in conservation efforts for Himalayan species. It is the first zoo in the country to establish a genetic biobank aimed at preserving the DNA of endangered animals such as red pandas and snow leopards. This facility is crucial for ensuring genetic diversity and safeguarding the reproductive potential of these species, especially in light of threats like habitat destruction and inbreeding depression. The zoo also focuses on rewilding programs to help restore these animals to their natural habitats.

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The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) released the Adaptation Gap Report 2024. The report assesses the world’s progress on adaptation planning, financing, and implementation. The adaptation gap is estimated at US187-359 billion per year, reflecting resource limitations. International public adaptation finance to developing countries reached US27.5 billion in 2022, showing progress toward the Glasgow Climate Pact. It also suggests ways to improve national and global adaptation efforts. The 2024 report emphasizes the need for countries to increase their efforts to adapt to climate change, starting with a commitment to finance at COP29. It also provides a more in-depth analysis of capacity building and technology transfer.

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The Himachal Pradesh government is working to reclaim the 110 MW Shanan Hydropower Project from Punjab, asserting its rightful ownership. The project, commissioned in 1932, was India’s first megawatt-capacity hydroelectric project. It is located in Joginder Nagar, Mandi district, Himachal Pradesh. It is built on the Uhl River. It was leased to Punjab in 1925 for 99 years, with the lease expiring in March 2024. Himachal Pradesh now seeks ownership, claiming the land originally belonged to it. The project is currently under Punjab’s control, and Himachal is seeking central government support for the transfer.

Notes:
The 1st Global Ministerial Conference on Ending Violence Against Children was held in Bogotá, Colombia. The conference was hosted by Colombia and Sweden, in partnership with UNICEF, WHO, and the UN Special Representative on Ending Violence Against Children. Violence against children includes physical, emotional, and sexual abuse. It affects half of the world’s child population, with corporal punishment impacting three out of five children at home. Violence is often hidden, with fewer than half of affected children reporting it, and less than 10% receiving help (WHO).

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Research on caterpillar fungus (Ophiocordyceps Sinensis) reveals its potential as a cancer treatment. This fungus, a parasite of caterpillar larvae, is found in the Tibetan Plateau and Himalayas, known by various local names. It is documented in India’s protected areas like Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve and Askot Wildlife Sanctuary. The species is classified as Vulnerable by the IUCN. The chemical Cordycepin from the fungus interrupts overactive cell growth signals in cancer, potentially offering a less harmful alternative to current treatments by targeting cancer cells specifically.

Notes:
Researchers discovered a new aphid wasp species, Arpactophilus pulawskii, in Nagaland’s Khuzama district at 1,800 meters altitude. This is the first time the Arpactophilus genus has been recorded outside the Australasian region. Arpactophilus species target aphids as prey and show unique nesting behavior, using silk from their abdomen to form protective cells. Arpactophilus pulawskii has a distinct square-shaped head, inverted V-shaped clypeus, rust-colored body markings, and a uniquely textured thorax. This genus is notable for exhibiting social behavior, which is rare among wasps.

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France is evaluating India’s Pinaka Multi-Barrel Rocket Launch (MBRL) system for its requirements. The system, developed by DRDO, is named after “Pinaka,” a mythical weapon of Lord Shiva. It can hit targets up to 75 kilometers and beyond. The Pinaka MBRL can launch 12 rockets in 44 seconds, making it effective for overwhelming enemy defenses. Armenia was the first export customer for Pinaka, with other countries also expressing interest in the system.

Notes:
Researchers discovered a new species, Dicliptera polymorpha, in the Northern Western Ghats of India. The species is known for its fire-resilient, pyrophytic habit and dual-blooming pattern. It has a second flowering phase triggered by grassland fires set by locals. Dicliptera polymorpha has unique spicate inflorescences and is the only Indian species with this structure. It thrives on slopes in open grasslands exposed to droughts and frequent fires. The species blooms twice a year, with the second phase in May and June, triggered by fires. Its adaptation highlights the need to manage grassland ecosystems carefully.

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Bhutan plans to build the “Gelephu Mindfulness City” (GMC) with a $100 million bond issue to fund the project. The city will focus on mindfulness, green spaces, eco-tourism, and promoting walking and cycling. It will span over 2,500 sq km and connect South Asia with Southeast Asia, with separate rules and laws. GMC will offer space for businesses in finance, tourism, green energy, technology, healthcare, and more. The bond will raise funds for infrastructure, green energy, and connectivity. The project aims to attract investment, create jobs, and redefine Bhutan’s economic landscape.

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The 16th India Game Developer Conference (IGDC) recently held in Hyderabad. It is organized by the Game Developer Association of India (GDAI). With more than 150 sessions and 250 speakers, the conference aims to explore trends, challenges, and innovations in gaming. It serves as a vital platform for showcasing talent and shaping policies to advance India’s video game industry. The event underscores India’s rising influence in the global gaming market, addressing the need for dedicated gaming hubs and expanding the nation’s incubator ecosystem, inspired by initiatives like Telangana’s IMAGE Tower.