1. An international consortium, led by the newly formed Global Climate Innovation Fund (GCIF), recently announced a significant breakthrough. What is this development related to?
A) A new generation of modular nuclear reactors for remote areas.
B) Commercially viable direct air capture (DAC) technology for carbon removal.
C) Development of AI-driven flood prediction and early warning systems.
D) A global standard for measuring ocean acidification levels.
Correct answer: B) Commercially viable direct air capture (DAC) technology for carbon removal. Notes: The Global Climate Innovation Fund (GCIF), a collaborative body comprising leading research institutions and private sector investors, announced a major advancement in Direct Air Capture (DAC) technology. This breakthrough focuses on significantly reducing the energy consumption and operational costs associated with extracting carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere. By utilizing novel sorbent materials and optimized process designs, the consortium claims to have achieved an efficiency level that makes DAC commercially viable on a large scale. This development is crucial for meeting global net-zero targets and could represent a turning point in mitigating the effects of climate change, offering a tangible solution for legacy emissions and hard-to-abate sectors. The GCIF aims to scale up deployment rapidly.
2. Which UN-affiliated body, at its recent session, adopted a landmark resolution establishing global norms for responsible state behavior in cyberspace and combating AI-driven disinformation campaigns?
A) United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
B) UN General Assembly First Committee (Disarmament and International Security)
C) International Telecommunication Union (ITU)
D) UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
Correct answer: B) UN General Assembly First Committee (Disarmament and International Security) Notes: The UN General Assembly First Committee, responsible for addressing disarmament and international security matters, recently passed a significant resolution. This resolution focuses on codifying a set of global norms to guide responsible state behavior in the increasingly complex and volatile domain of cyberspace. Furthermore, a crucial element of the new framework is its emphasis on collective international efforts to combat AI-driven disinformation campaigns, which pose growing threats to national security, electoral integrity, and social cohesion. The resolution calls for enhanced transparency, accountability, and cooperation among member states to build a secure and stable digital environment. This marks a concerted effort to address the dual challenges of cyber warfare and sophisticated information manipulation.
3. The Government of India recently unveiled “Bharat Semiconductor Mission 2.0,” a renewed push aimed at achieving self-reliance in the critical semiconductor sector. What is its primary focus?
A) Expanding the export of traditional Indian handicrafts to global markets.
B) Developing indigenous fabless design capabilities and advanced packaging for chips.
C) Establishing a national network of high-speed rail corridors.
D) Promoting sustainable agricultural practices and organic farming certifications.
Correct answer: B) Developing indigenous fabless design capabilities and advanced packaging for chips. Notes: “Bharat Semiconductor Mission 2.0” represents India’s intensified commitment to becoming a global player in semiconductor manufacturing, a sector crucial for economic growth and strategic autonomy. Unlike its initial phase that focused more on attracting global foundries, this renewed mission places a strong emphasis on nurturing indigenous talent and capabilities. The primary focus is on developing advanced fabless design houses within India, encouraging local innovation in chip architecture, and investing heavily in advanced packaging technologies. This comprehensive approach aims to create a robust domestic semiconductor ecosystem, reducing reliance on imports and positioning India as a key hub for cutting-edge chip design and assembly in the coming decade, fostering both economic self-reliance and technological leadership.
4. Which Indian city has recently been designated as a ‘Global Cultural Heritage Hub’ by UNESCO for its pioneering efforts in preserving traditional arts through digital archives and community engagement initiatives?
A) Jaipur
B) Varanasi
C) Lucknow
D) Kolkata
Correct answer: C) Lucknow Notes: Lucknow, the capital of Uttar Pradesh, has earned the prestigious ‘Global Cultural Heritage Hub’ designation from UNESCO, recognizing its exemplary work in cultural preservation. The city was lauded for its innovative approach to safeguarding its rich heritage of traditional arts, including Awadhi music, dance, cuisine, and intricate crafts like Chikankari. A key factor in this recognition was Lucknow’s pioneering use of digital archives, which meticulously document and make accessible centuries-old cultural practices to a global audience. Complementing this, robust community engagement programs have empowered local artisans and cultural practitioners, ensuring the living traditions continue to thrive. This designation highlights Lucknow’s successful blend of technology and grassroots efforts in cultural conservation.
5. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recently announced the successful clinical trial results for a novel vaccine. What is this vaccine designed to combat?
A) A new variant of seasonal influenza.
B) Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in common bacterial infections.
C) Dengue and Chikungunya simultaneously.
D) Early-stage Alzheimer’s disease.
Correct answer: B) Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in common bacterial infections. Notes: The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has made a significant stride in global public health with the successful conclusion of clinical trials for a novel multi-strain vaccine. This innovative vaccine is specifically designed to combat the growing threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) in common bacterial infections. AMR poses a critical challenge worldwide, rendering many antibiotics ineffective and making treatable infections life-threatening. The new vaccine targets multiple resistant bacterial strains prevalent in community-acquired and hospital-acquired infections, promising to reduce the incidence of drug-resistant diseases. This breakthrough offers a crucial preventative measure, potentially alleviating the burden on healthcare systems and preserving the efficacy of existing antibiotics by reducing their overuse.
