CURRENT AFFAIRS – 23/09/24

1. Cancer Moonshot Initiative 

Q. The term ‘Cancer Moonshot Initiative’ often appears in the news in the’ context of the affairs of a group of countries known as

(a) QUAD

(b) ASEAN

(c) SCO

(d) SAARC

Answer: (a) QUAD

Explanation: 

In NEWS: What is the Cancer Moonshot Initiative, that Quad grouping gave nod to? 

• The Quad grouping Saturday took a groundbreaking cancer initiative global. Called the Quad Cancer Moonshot Initiative, the countries — India, United States, Australia and Japan — launched the programme that will focus on expanding cervical cancer screening; increasing vaccinations against the human papillomavirus, or HPV, a common sexually transmitted infection that is the primary cause of cervical cancer; and treating patients. Hence option (a) is correct.
• Aimed at implementing innovative strategies to prevent, detect, treat and alleviate the impact of cancer on patients and their families, the Quad initiative will work to promote human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination, increase access to screenings, and expand treatment options and care in underserved areas.
• As India’s contribution to the initiative, PM Modi dedicated a “grant of US $7.5 million to cancer testing, screening, and diagnostics in the Indo-Pacific region”, according to a release by the Ministry of External Affairs.
• According to the MEA statement, Modi also announced that India will provide support for radiotherapy treatment and capacity building for cancer prevention in the Indo-Pacific. He also said that Indo-Pacific countries will be benefiting from the supply of 40 million doses of vaccine from India under GAVI and QUAD programs.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/world/quad-leaders-summit-cancer-moonshot-initiative-9581620/ 

2. PETN

Q. With reference to ‘Pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN)’, Consider the following statements.

1. It is a powerful explosive material.
2. It is used to treat chronic cardiac insufficiency.
3. It is colourless white crystals or powder which is easily soluble in water.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation: 

In NEWS: Hezbollah handed out pagers hours before blasts — even after checks 

How pagers turned into explosive devices in Lebanon 

• The batteries of the walkie-talkies were laced with a highly explosive compound known as PETN, another Lebanese source familiar with the device’s components told Reuters on Friday. 
• Up to three grams of explosives hidden in the pagers had gone undetected for months by Hezbollah, Reuters reported earlier this week.

Pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN):

• Pentaerythritol tetranitrate (PETN) is a powerful explosive material with a variety of uses, including:
  • Demolition: PETN is a primary explosive used in demolition. Hence statement 1 is correct.
  • Detonating fuses and blasting caps: PETN is used to make detonating fuses and blasting caps. 
  • Military operations: PETN is used in military operations. 
  • Terrorist attacks: PETN has been used in devastating terrorist attacks. 
  • Cardiac insufficiency: PETN is used to treat chronic cardiac insufficiency. Hence statement 2 is correct.

• Structure – Nitrate ester of pentaerythritol, structurally similar to nitroglycerin
• Appearance – Colorless to white crystals or powder, insoluble in water. Hence statement 3 is incorrect.
• Other names – PENT, pentyl, PENTA, TEN, corpent, penthrite, nitropenta
• Relative effectiveness factor – 1.66
• Synthesis – Nitration reaction of pentaerythritol with nitric acid
• Safety – Relatively safe to use
• PETN is a key ingredient in Semtex, along with RDX

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/hezbollah-handed-out-pagers-hours-before-blasts-even-after-checks/article68663917.ece 

https://www.nbcnews.com/tech/security/pagers-turned-explosive-devices-lebanon-rcna171536

3. TRADE DEFICIT

Q. With reference to the international trade of India at present, which of the following statements is/are correct? 

1. India’s merchandise exports are less than its merchandise imports.

2. India’s exports of Petroleum Gems and jewellery have increased in recent years.

3. India’s exports of services are more than its imports of services.

4. India suffers from an overall trade/current account deficit.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 2 and 4 only

(c) 3 only

(d) 1, 3 and 4 only

Answer: (d) 1, 3 and 4 only

Explanation: 

In NEWS: Is the spike in India’s trade deficit a worry? 

• After a positive start to goods exports in the first quarter of 2024-25, there has been a blip in momentum. Outbound shipment values shrank 1.5% in July to an eight-month low, and the contraction deepened to 9.3% in August. 
• This has coincided with a record import bill which hit $64.4 billion in August, and translated into a merchandise trade deficit of $29.7 billion, the second highest after the record $29.9 billion gap in October 2023
• While exports have shrank in the past two months, imports have not — they grew 7.5% over last July and 3.3% in August. Hence statement 1 is correct.
• Export Performance:
  • 18 out of 30 top segments saw growth in July, 19 in August.
  • Significant declines in major sectors:
  • Petroleum exports down 22.2% (July), 37.6% (August).
  • Gems and jewellery exports down over 20%.
  • Slower growth in pharmaceuticals and electronics. Hence statement 2 is incorrect.
• Import Surge:
  • Record import bill of $64.4 billion in August.
  • Gold imports more than doubled to $10.1 billion due to:
  • Reduction in gold import duty from 15% to 6%.
  • Rise in gold prices.
  • Pre-festive season stockpiling by domestic players.
• Economic Implications:
  • No immediate economic risks identified; India’s growth is outpacing global trends.
  • Positive foreign capital inflows and high foreign exchange reserves ($675 billion) provide stability.
  • Services exports reportedly rose over 10% from April to August. Hence statement 3 is correct.
• India’s trade deficit is widening due to a combination of declining exports in key sectors and rising imports, particularly gold. Hence statement 4 is correct.
• While the current economic impact is manageable, future trade dynamics may be challenging amid global economic uncertainties and protective trade policies.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/business/Economy/is-the-spike-in-indias-trade-deficit-a-worry/article68668475.ece#:~:text=Could%20wider%20trade%20deficits%20pose,world’s%20demand%20for%20its%20exports. 

4. Boosting Your Bottom Line Through Decarbonization

Q. Boosting Your Bottom Line Through Decarbonization survey is published by the

(a) International Monetary Fund

(b) Boston Consulting Group 

(c) World Economic Forum 

(d) World Bank

Answer: (b) Boston Consulting Group

Explanation: 

In NEWS: Indian companies lead in emissions control, says annual survey 

• India has been found to be one of the top three countries in reporting, target-setting and reduction of carbon emissions, a global survey by Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and CO2 AI, a sustainability management platform, has found. The country lags behind only China and Brazil. Globally, however, progress is slow.
• The report, “Boosting Your Bottom Line Through Decarbonization”, which was released on Tuesday, revealed that 12 per cent of Indian companies were reporting emissions, against the global average of 9 per cent. Hence option (b) is correct.
• The report also found that while 16 per cent companies globally had set targets for controlling emissions, the figures for India were 24 per cent. 
• Moreover, in line with the Paris Agreement—which seeks to limit global average temperature rise to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels—15 per cent of Indian companies were reducing their carbon emissions, higher than 11 per cent globally.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/indian-companies-lead-in-emissions-control-says-annual-survey-9581824/#:~:text=India%20has%20been%20found%20to,%2C%20however%2C%20progress%20is%20slow. 

5. Nainital Lake 

Q. With reference to Nainital Lake, consider the  following statements

1. It is a freshwater lake.
2. Naina Devi Temple is located on the northern shore of the Nainital Lake.
3. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered to classify Nainital town on the lines of a prohibited, regulated and development zone.

How many of the above statements are correct?

(a) Only one

(b) Only two

(c) All three

(d) None

Answer: (c) All three

Explanation: 

In NEWS: Green tribunal orders classification of Nainital town into prohibited, regulated, development zones

Bearing in mind its environmental sensitivity, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered to classify Nainital town on the lines of a prohibited, regulated and development zone.

Nainital Lake: 

• Nainital Lake, located in the picturesque town of Nainital in Uttarakhand, India, is a stunning natural attraction surrounded by hills. 
• Type: Nainital Lake is a freshwater lake, often referred to as “Naini Lake.”
• Shape: It has an eye-like shape, which is reflected in its name (“Naini” means “eye” in Hindi).
• Altitude: Situated at an elevation of about 1,938 meters (6,357 feet) above sea level.

Features:

• Scenic Beauty: Surrounded by lush green hills, the lake offers breathtaking views, making it a popular destination for tourists and nature lovers.
• Activities: Visitors can enjoy boating, yachting, and paddling on the lake. The experience of a boat ride, especially at sunrise or sunset, is particularly enchanting.
• Temples: Naina Devi Temple, located on the northern shore, is a significant religious site, attracting pilgrims and tourists alike.

Wildlife and Flora:

• The area around the lake is rich in biodiversity, with various species of birds and flora, contributing to its ecological significance.
• Accessibility
• Nainital is well-connected by road, making it accessible from major cities in Uttarakhand and neighboring states.

Tourism:

• Nainital Lake is a central part of Nainital’s tourism, drawing visitors year-round for its natural beauty and recreational activities.

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/india/green-tribunal-orders-nainital-town-classified-as-prohibited-regulated-development-zone-9580501/ 

6. Nagar Vans

Q. The “Nagar Vans” is well known for the:

(a) Promotion of commercial farming in arid and semi-arid areas

(b) Development’ of gardens using genetically modified flora

(c) Creation of urban greenery for improving the quality of life

(d) Harvesting wind energy on coastal areas and on sea surfaces

Answer: (c) Creation of urban greenery for improving the quality of life

Explanation: 

In NEWS: Ministry achieves 100-Day Target of 100 Nagar Vans with objective to Enhance Urban Greenery

• The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Government of India had launched revised Nagar Van Yojana (NVY) in 2020 in an effort to enhance the urban greenery for improving the quality of life and increasing social cohesion in cities. Hence option (b) is correct. 
• These Nagar Vans will not only be vital environmental resources but also be a space for recreation, environment education, biodiversity conservation and a tool for adaptation towards climate change making the cities climate resilient.
• The scheme provides financial assistance of Rs. 4 lakh per hectare for the creation and maintenance of these urban forests, encouraging the involvement of citizens, students, and other stakeholders in the creation and management of these green spaces. Nagar Van areas range from a minimum of 10 ha to 50 ha. 
• The scheme covers all cities with Municipal Corporations, Municipalities and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs). Emphasis is on biodiversity, Planting fruit-bearing, medicinal, and native species to attract wildlife and promote ecological balance. 
• Community participation is central, with opportunities for public engagement through tree planting, educational programs, and sustainable management. 
• Each Nagar Van must have at least two-thirds of its area under tree cover and will feature components like Biodiversity Parks, Smriti Vans, Butterfly Conservatories, and Herbal Gardens and now Matri Van created under Ek Ped Ma Ke Naam.
• Presently, the Nagar Van Yojana aims to develop 1000 Nagar Vans by the year 2027 with the financial support of National Fund of National Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning Authority (National CAMPA). 
• This initiative will help in protecting forest land within and around urban centers from degradation and encroachment and will also address environmental concerns such as air pollution, urban heat islands, the loss of biodiversity, degradation of habitat etc.

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2057503 

7. IPEF Fair Economy Agreement  

Q. Consider the following statements:

Statement-I:

The IPEF Fair Economy Agreement can improve tax transparency and facilitate information exchange among partners.

Statement-II:

The IPEF Fair Economy Agreement is designed to combat bribery in the Indo-Pacific region.

Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?

(a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

(b) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I

(c) Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect

(d) Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct

Answer: (a) Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I

Explanation: 

In NEWS: India signs first-of-its-kind agreements focused on Clean Economy, Fair Economy, and the IPEF Overarching arrangement under Indo-Pacific Economic Framework for prosperity.

IPEF Fair Economy Agreement:

• The Agreement aims to create a more transparent and predictable trade and investment environment across the Indo-Pacific. Hence statement 1 is correct.
• To achieve these goals, the IPEF partners will collaborate to enhance their efforts in preventing and combating corruption, including bribery, and supporting initiatives to improve tax transparency, the exchange of information, domestic resource mobilization, and tax administration. Hence statement 2 is correct.
• It focuses on enhancing information sharing among partners, facilitating asset recovery, and strengthening cross-border investigations and prosecutions. 
• This will also support India’s efforts in fighting corruption, money laundering, and terror financing.
• Recognizing the critical role of technical assistance and capacity building (TACB) in achieving the commitments outlined in the proposed agreement and ensuring effective implementation and enforcement of anti-corruption measures, the partners are committed to identifying and implementing TACB initiatives. 
• These initiatives will strengthen anti-corruption efforts and improve the efficiency of tax administration.

Source:  https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2057489 

8. Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972

Q. With reference to ‘Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972’, consider the following statements.

1. Any article, object, or thing detached from a building or cave.
2. Any article, object, or thing declared by the Central Government to be an antiquity.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2

Explanation: 

In NEWS: United States of America returns 297 antiquities to India 

• In keeping with close bilateral ties and to foster greater cultural understanding, the U.S. State Department’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, and the Archaeological Survey of India under Ministry of Culture, Government of India had signed a Cultural Property Agreement to enhance cooperation to protect cultural heritage.
• On the occasion of the visit of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi to the United States, the US side facilitated the return of 297 antiquities that had been stolen or trafficked from India.
  • Apsara in sandstone from Central India belonging to 10-11th century CE;
  • Jain Tirthankar in bronze from Central India belonging to 15-16th century CE;
  • Terracotta vase from Eastern India belonging to 3-4th century CE;
  • Stone Sculpture from South India belonging to 1st century BCE-1st century CE;
  • Lord Ganesh in Bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE;
  • Standing Lord Buddha in sandstone from North India belonging 15-16th century CE;
  • Lord Vishnu in Bronze from Eastern India belonging to 17-18th century CE;
  • Anthropomorphic figure in copper from North India belonging to 2000-1800 BCE;
  • Lord Krishna in bronze from South India belonging to 17-18th century CE,
  • Lord Karthikeya in granite from South India belonging to 13-14th century CE.
• Antiquities and Art Treasures Act, 1972- It defines “antiquity” as
  • Any coin, sculpture, painting, epigraph or other work of art or craftsmanship.
  • Any article, object or thing detached from a building or cave illustrative of science, art, crafts, literature, religion, customs, morals or politics in bygone ages. Hence statement 1 is correct.
• As per the act, The Central Government may specify which antiquities need to be registered by issuing a notification in the Official Gazette. Hence statement 2 is correct.
• The registration of antiquities in India is governed by the Antiquities and Art Treasures Act of 1972 and the Antiquities and Art Treasures Rules of 1973. The purpose of registering antiquities is to:
  • Regulate the export trade of antiquities and art treasures 
  • Prevent smuggling and fraudulent dealings in antiquities 
  • Preserve antiquities for the appreciation of India’s cultural heritage 
  • Provide the power to compulsorily acquire antiquities and art treasures for preservation in public places

Source: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetail.aspx?PRID=2057461 

9. Places in NEWS

Q. Which of the following has/have shrunk immensely/dried up the recent past due to human activities?

1. Solimoes river

2. Paraguay river

3. Pilcomayo river

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

(a) 1, 2, and 3 only

(b) 2 and 3

(c) 2 only

(d) 1 and 3

Answer: (a) 1, 2, and 3 only

Explanation: 

In NEWS:

• A man is seen on a boat in front of the sandbanks at the Solimoes river during a Greenpeace flyover, to inspect the severe drought near Tefe in Brazil.
• Sandbanks on the Madeira river in Brazil are seen as over a thousand localities are on alert amid the country’s worst drought, with fires continuing to rage.
• Barges are stuck on the riverbed next to a tributary into the Paraguay river amid a drought in Lambare, Paraguay.
• Alligators are stuck in the mud of the dry Pilcomayo river, which is facing its worst drought in almost two decades, in Boqueron, on the border between Paraguay and Argentina.

Hence all the statements are correct.

Source: The Hindu

10. With reference to the period of Gupta dynasty in ancient India, the towns Ghantasala, Kadura and Chaul were well known as

(a) ports handling foreign trade

(b) capitals of powerful kingdoms

(c) places of exquisite stone art and architecture

(d) important Buddhist pilgrimage centres

Answer: (a) ports handling foreign trade.