Current Affairs Quiz April 2024

[A] Kerala

Notes:

Researchers at the University of Kerala developed an innovative Airbreathing Magnesium-Copper/Cupric Oxide (Mg-Cu/CuO) Fuel Cell. Unlike its predecessor, the Mg-C fuel cell, it features a reusable copper-based cathode, offering enhanced operational stability. This eco-friendly technology utilizes air and seawater to generate power, emitting only water as a byproduct. Anticipated to rival the impact of Lithium-ion batteries, it exclusively produces electricity and heat during operation.

[D] Discovery of God Particle

Notes:

British physicist Peter Higgs, renowned for discovering the ‘Higgs-Boson Particle’ or ‘God Particle’, passed away at 94. Awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2013, his work elucidated the universe’s post-Big Bang creation. Higgs, a long-time professor at Edinburgh University, contributed significantly to understanding bosons’ role in universal cohesion. His death on April 8, 2024, marked the end of an era in physics. The confirmation of the God particle came in 2012, revolutionizing scientific understanding.

C [IIT Jodhpur]

Notes:

Researchers at IIT Jodhpur created a nanosensor for rapid Cytokine detection, crucial in cell regulation. It aims to reduce mortality by addressing delayed diagnoses. This technology promises rapid, point-of-care health monitoring, disease diagnosis, and immune response tracking. Prof. Ajay Agarwal stated the technique shows promise for key biomarkers like IL-6, IL-β, and TNF-α. Currently in development, clinical trials are imminent. This innovation could revolutionize healthcare diagnostics and patient management.

B [IIT Bombay]

Notes:

Canara Bank and Society for Innovation & Entrepreneurship (SINE), IIT Bombay, formalized collaboration via a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). This collaboration aims to bolster the startup sector by offering financial aid and support. Canara Bank’s Canara Start-Up Scheme will provide funding for industrial units, while SINE, a renowned technology incubator, will offer full incubation and acceleration services to tech startups. Together, they seek to foster the growth and success of businesses in India.

[A] World Trade Organization

Notes:

The World Trade Organization’s Global Trade Outlook and Statistics Report indicates early signs of trade fragmentation. In 2023, intermediate goods trade decreased by 6%, contrasting with stagnant non-intermediate trade. China’s share of Asian trading partners for parts and accessories slightly dropped. Disruptions in key shipping routes, such as the Panama and Suez Canals, are challenging global trade resilience. Traffic diversion via the Cape of Good Hope adds approximately 10 days to Asia-Europe journeys.

[B] 11.6%

Notes:

India, accounting for 11.6% of global hepatitis cases in 2022 per WHO, faces over 35.3 million infections, with 29.8 million from hepatitis B and 5.5 million from hepatitis C. Ranking second after China, India and China together contribute 27.5% of global cases. The WHO report also highlights an increase in hepatitis-related mortality to 1.3 million deaths in 2022, with hepatitis B responsible for 83% and hepatitis C for 17% of deaths.

[A] IIT Bombay

Notes:

IIT Bombay climbed to 45th in Engineering and Technology in the 2024 QS World University Rankings, scoring 79.1/100. The QS ranks universities in 55 disciplines; results released by the UK-based agency highlight IIT Bombay’s strengths in various fields including Minerals and Mining (25th), Data Science and AI (30th), Civil and Structural Engineering (42nd), and others. Notably, it improved by two places from 2023 in Engineering and Technology.

[A] Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha

Notes:

The Muria tribe, primarily located in Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha, faces challenges including lack of access to primary education, safe drinking water, and social welfare benefits. They are at risk of displacement and are referred to as ‘Gutti Koyas’. Speaking the Koya language, they practice animism and have unique cultural practices like Ghotul for youth education. Despite holding ST status in Chhattisgarh, they lack recognition in migrated states like Telangana.

[A] Limiting global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels

Notes:

The Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi), established in 2015, supports companies in setting Science-Based Targets (SBTs) to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with the Paris Agreement. A recent decision allowing carbon offsetting for Scope 3 emissions has sparked controversy. SBTi verifies targets independently, ensuring alignment with the latest climate science. It distinguishes between near- and long-term goals, essential for significant progress by 2030 and achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.

[A] Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports

Notes:

Special Olympics Bharat (SOB), a National Sports Federation of India, is establishing district units in Tamil Nadu through elections on April 22. Registered under the Indian Trust Act 1882 in 2001, it’s accredited by Special Olympics International. Recognized by the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports, it’s a Priority Category National Sports Federation, focusing on sports for persons with intellectual disabilities. SOB is a leading social inclusion movement using sports, health, education, and leadership programs.