Correct Answer : Odisha
Horseshoe crabs, ancient marine creatures known for their blue blood, are facing extinction due to habitat loss and human activities along the coastline of Odisha. Conservation efforts are underway to protect them, including tracking their movements and studying their nesting patterns. These crabs, dating back millions of years, are vital to biomedical science due to their blood's unique properties, and they play an important ecological role in their coastal habitat.
Correct Answer : South Africa
The geomagnetic storm that lit up the night sky in parts of the US in early October originated from a solar flare that erupted from sunspot 3842 on October 3. South Africa's National Space Agency (SANSA) tracked this significant event, noting it was the strongest earth-facing solar flare recorded by SANSA in seven years. The agency also reported the brief disruption to high-frequency radio communications over the African region. SANSA's expertise and monitoring capabilities provide valuable insights into space weather events like geomagnetic storms, highlighting South Africa's role in space research and exploration.
Correct Answer : Protein structure prediction
Demis Hassabis and John M. Jumper were recognized for their groundbreaking work in protein structure prediction, particularly with the development of AlphaFold2, an AI-driven system introduced in 2020. AlphaFold2 revolutionized the ability to predict how amino acid sequences fold into three-dimensional structures, solving a long-standing challenge in structural biology. This innovation has vast applications in drug discovery, biotechnology, and the understanding of diseases, as it provides insight into nearly every known protein structure.
Correct Answer : Israel
A recent drone attack in central Israel led to 40 injuries, including three individuals in critical condition. The attack was claimed by the Lebanese militant group Hezbollah and represents a significant escalation in conflict tensions in the region. Israel's advanced defence systems typically mitigate such incidents, making the scale of injuries particularly alarming. This attack is one of the most serious in recent times, reflecting Israel's vulnerabilities amid ongoing hostilities and indicating a troubling increase in aggression from militant groups like Hezbollah.
Correct Answer : Telangana
Telangana has begun categorizing Scheduled Castes (SCs) into four sub-groups following a Supreme Court judgment that allows states to sub-classify SCs and STs for reservation purposes. The ruling upheld the application of the 'creamy layer' principle to SCs and STs, which was previously only applicable to Other Backward Classes (OBCs). It also clarified that reservation benefits are meant for the first generation, and subsequent generations become ineligible if a family member has already availed of the benefits. This initiative aims to ensure a more equitable distribution of resources among varying levels of backwardness within these communities.
Correct Answer : SpaceX
SpaceX made headlines by successfully catching its Starship booster on its first-stage rocket after a recent test flight. This remarkable achievement highlights the company's advanced rapid reusability technology, which is vital for reducing costs associated with future Mars missions. The use of large mechanical arms, referred to as "Mechazilla," in this process underscores SpaceX's commitment to innovation in space travel. As SpaceX aims to establish a human presence on the Moon and Mars, this milestone significantly contributes to their long-term goal of making humanity a multi-planetary species.
Correct Answer : New Delhi
The India Digital Agri Conference 2024 was held in New Delhi, bringing together stakeholders to harness the power of digital technology in agriculture. Led by Agriculture and Farmers' Welfare Secretary, Dr. Devesh Chaturvedi, the conference facilitated knowledge sharing, showcased innovative solutions, and encouraged collaboration across sectors. By hosting this conference in the nation's capital, the event aimed to drive policy discussions and strategic partnerships, ultimately modernizing India's agricultural landscape. New Delhi's hosting of the conference underscores its role as a hub for policy-making and innovation.
Correct Answer : October 13
The International Day for Disaster Risk Reduction (IDDRR) is observed annually on October 13, emphasizing the importance of mitigating disaster risks and promoting strategies to reduce losses from natural and human-made disasters. Established by the United Nations in 1989, IDDRR aims to promote disaster risk awareness, preparedness, and resilience. The day supports the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015-2030) and provides a platform for global cooperation, knowledge sharing, and innovation in disaster risk reduction. By observing IDDRR on October 13, the international community reaffirms its commitment to building resilient communities.
Correct Answer : Germany
The 44th session of the Codex Committee on Nutrition and Foods for Special Dietary Uses (CCNFSDU) took place in Dresden, Germany, from October 2 to October 6, 2024. India played a significant role in the meeting, making key interventions on probiotic guidelines and nutrient reference values. The committee's agreements on revising probiotic guidelines and determining combined nutrient reference values reflect India's influential contributions. Germany's hosting of the event underscores its commitment to global health cooperation and standardization in food nutrition. The meeting facilitated international collaboration, with India, Canada, Chile, and New Zealand working together to advance nutrition standards.
Correct Answer : October 12
World Migratory Bird Day (WMBD) is celebrated twice a year to raise awareness about the conservation of migratory birds and their habitats. In 2024, the second observance of WMBD will fall on October 12, reflecting a key date in the migratory cycle of birds. The theme for 2024, "Insects for Birds," emphasizes the critical role insects play in the survival of migratory birds, particularly during migration and breeding seasons. This day promotes global action to protect both birds and the declining insect populations they rely on for food.
