Correct Answer : Rwanda
* Rwanda successfully declared its first-ever Marburg Virus Disease (MVD) outbreak officially over after a 42-day period with no new cases. * MVD is a severe hemorrhagic fever caused by the Marburg virus, with no approved treatments currently available. * It spreads from fruit bats to humans and through direct contact with bodily fluids. * Rwanda's efforts in controlling the outbreak included community engagement, contact tracing, and infection control, marking a significant achievement in public health management for the country, known for its landscapes and proximity to major rivers like the Nile and Congo.
Correct Answer : Odisha
* Odisha has demonstrated a remarkable fiscal transformation over the past two decades. * From having a debt-to-GSDP ratio of 57.3% in 2002-03, the highest among Indian states at the time, it has reduced this ratio to 16.0% in 2023-24, the lowest in the country. * Key reforms such as the Odisha Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management Act (OFRBMA), tax system modernization, and revenue generation from mining leases were instrumental in this turnaround. * Odisha also maintained a revenue surplus even during the COVID-19 pandemic, showcasing effective fiscal management and resilience. This success highlights the state's disciplined approach to economic governance.
Correct Answer : Mauritius
* The dodo, a flightless bird native to Mauritius, became extinct in 1681 due to overhunting and habitat destruction. * It stands as a poignant reminder of human-induced extinction and environmental negligence. * Today, the bird’s image is being revived through Kashmiri papier mâché art, symbolizing deforestation and ecological awareness. * These crafted dodo models have gained global popularity, especially in Mauritius, where the bird is a national emblem. * This cultural and artistic endeavour not only promotes environmental sustainability but also strengthens international ties through cultural exchange and handicrafts.
Correct Answer : June 1, 1981
* The Forest Survey of India (FSI) was officially formed on June 1, 1981, succeeding the Pre-Investment Survey of Forest Resources. * This organization operates under the Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change, with its headquarters located in Dehradun. * Its main objective is the regular assessment and monitoring of India's forest resources, contributing to sustainable forest management. * Additionally, the FSI is involved in training, research, and providing extension services, further strengthening its role in conserving India's environmental and ecological heritage.
Correct Answer : Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
* Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar has been reassigned as the Governor of Kerala, succeeding Arif Mohammed Khan, who was transferred to Bihar.* This reshuffle, announced by President Droupadi Murmu, also included Ajay Kumar Bhalla being appointed as the Governor of Manipur, replacing Anusuiya Uikey. * Hari Babu Kambhampati was moved to Odisha to replace Raghubar Das, while General Dr. Vijay Kumar Singh was appointed as the Governor of Mizoram to replace Kambhampati. * These strategic appointments aim to address political, administrative, and security challenges in the respective states, reflecting the significance of robust leadership in strengthening regional governance.
Correct Answer : Sri Lanka
* The Sri Lankan President made their first official visit to India, focusing on strengthening trade, energy, and maritime cooperation. * Discussions included Tamil aspirations, economic recovery, and countering Chinese influence, aligning with India’s Neighbourhood First policy and SAGAR Vision. * Key outcomes included proposed Economic and Technology Cooperation Agreements, promotion of INR-LKR trade settlements, renewable energy projects, and enhanced regional connectivity. * India also extended financial aid, including USD 4 billion, to stabilize Sri Lanka's economy during its crisis. * The visit highlighted commitments to regional security, infrastructure development, and cooperation in global forums like BRICS and the UN.
Correct Answer : December 25
* Good Governance Day is observed on December 25 to commemorate the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. * Established in 2014, the day aims to promote awareness about government accountability and effective administration. * The 2024 theme, “India’s Path to a Viksit Bharat: Empowering Citizens through Good Governance and Digitalisation,” reflects the focus on leveraging governance and technology for national progress. * Additionally, the birth anniversary of Pt. Madan Mohan Malaviya is also observed on this day, making it significant for its dual recognition of leaders who contributed to India's development.
Correct Answer : Nepal
* Nepal is preparing to launch an HPV vaccination drive on February 5, 2025, aiming to reduce cervical cancer risks. * Supported by GAVI, Nepal’s Ministry of Health has procured 1.77 million HPV vaccine doses, with 460,940 currently stored in Kathmandu for distribution. * The campaign targets 1.68 million girls aged 10-14, including those not attending school, highlighting the nation's commitment to enhancing public health and cancer prevention.
Correct Answer : Philippines
* The Philippines plans to acquire the US Typhon missile system to strengthen its defence capabilities and protect its sovereignty. * This decision has drawn criticism from China, which considers the move provocative and potentially destabilizing to regional security. * The acquisition process is expected to take at least two years. The development highlights growing defence dynamics and tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.
Correct Answer : Vadnagar
* The 'Sushasan Padyatra' was organized in Vadnagar, Gujarat, the hometown of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. * The event, led by Union Minister Dr Mansukh Mandaviya, commemorated Atal Bihari Vajpayee's 100th birth anniversary. * It featured cultural programs, educational exhibitions, and discussions promoting constitutional values while paying tribute to Vajpayee's legacy and vision of a developed India by 2047.
