1. Researchers recently announced a breakthrough in the development of a highly effective vaccine against a major tropical disease, leveraging advanced mRNA technology. Which disease is this vaccine primarily targeting?
A. Dengue
B. Malaria
C. Tuberculosis
D. Chikungunya
Correct answer: B. Malaria Notes: The World Health Organization (WHO) and a consortium of global research institutes recently heralded the successful conclusion of Phase 3 clinical trials for an advanced mRNA-based malaria vaccine. This groundbreaking development, building upon the success of mRNA technology in previous global health crises, promises to revolutionize the fight against malaria, a disease that continues to claim hundreds of thousands of lives annually, predominantly in sub-Saharan Africa. The vaccine, demonstrating over 90% efficacy in preventing severe disease, is expected to receive regulatory approvals by late 2026, marking a significant leap forward in global health equity and disease eradication efforts. Its rapid development and high efficacy offer renewed hope for millions.
2. The recent ‘Samudra Shakti IV’ naval exercise, held in the Andaman Sea, involved which two nations, focusing on maritime security and interoperability?
A. India and Thailand
B. India and Indonesia
C. India and Singapore
D. India and Vietnam
Correct answer: B. India and Indonesia Notes: The fourth iteration of the bilateral naval exercise ‘Samudra Shakti IV’ recently concluded in the Andaman Sea, strengthening maritime cooperation between India and Indonesia. This joint drill focused on enhancing interoperability, sharing best practices in anti-submarine warfare, surface warfare, and maritime air operations. The exercise saw participation from advanced destroyers, frigates, and naval aircraft from both navies, demonstrating their commitment to maintaining a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. Such exercises are crucial for regional stability, fostering mutual understanding, and bolstering the capabilities of both nations to respond to conventional and non-conventional maritime threats, ensuring safety of sea lanes.
3. Which international body recently adopted a landmark resolution urging member states to implement stricter regulations on plastics, especially microplastics, found in agricultural soils?
A. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
B. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
C. World Health Organization (WHO)
D. International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
Correct answer: B. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Notes: The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations recently passed a significant resolution addressing the escalating problem of plastic pollution in agricultural ecosystems. This landmark decision calls upon its 195 member states to develop and enforce stringent policies to monitor and reduce the presence of plastics, particularly microplastics, in farming soils and irrigation systems. Concerns have grown regarding the impact of these plastics on soil health, biodiversity, and potential entry into the food chain. The FAO’s initiative aims to promote sustainable agricultural practices and safeguard global food security from this pervasive environmental threat, emphasizing source reduction and improved waste management.
4. The Indian government recently launched the “PM-Pranam Urja Mission” aimed at boosting indigenous capabilities in which sector?
A. Renewable Energy Storage
B. Electric Vehicle Manufacturing
C. Green Hydrogen Production
D. Semiconductor Fabrication
Correct answer: C. Green Hydrogen Production Notes: The “PM-Pranam Urja Mission,” a significant initiative by the Indian government, was recently unveiled to accelerate the nation’s transition towards a green energy economy. The mission specifically targets enhancing India’s indigenous capabilities in Green Hydrogen production, aiming to establish India as a global hub for this critical future fuel. It includes provisions for research and development, pilot projects, manufacturing incentives, and skill development to create a robust domestic ecosystem. This strategic move is anticipated to reduce India’s dependence on fossil fuel imports, create numerous green jobs, and contribute significantly to achieving the country’s ambitious climate targets by 2030 and beyond, bolstering energy security.
5. In a recent legislative debate, the Indian Parliament discussed proposed amendments to the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015, primarily focusing on which aspect?
A. Age of criminal responsibility
B. Adoption procedures simplification
C. Rehabilitation of child drug offenders
D. Enhancing child protection committees
Correct answer: B. Adoption procedures simplification Notes: The Indian Parliament recently engaged in extensive deliberations over proposed amendments to the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015. A key focus of these discussions was the simplification and streamlining of adoption procedures in India. The amendments aim to reduce bureaucratic hurdles, shorten the waiting period for prospective parents, and ensure a more transparent and child-centric adoption process. This legislative push is driven by the goal of placing more orphaned and abandoned children into safe, loving families efficiently, addressing the significant backlog in adoption cases across the country while upholding the highest standards of child welfare and protection. The move seeks to make the process less cumbersome for all stakeholders.
