Weekly Current Affairs: Quizzes, 12 June to 17 June, 2023

Explanation:

• Payment system operators primarily focus on facilitating digital or electronic transactions rather than the movement of physical cash. They provide the infrastructure, platforms, and technologies that enable individuals and businesses to make electronic payments, including online transfers, card payments, mobile payments, and other forms of digital transactions. Thus, statement 1 is not correct.
• Payment system operators are responsible for facilitating both online and offline transactions. While online transactions involve electronic channels like internet banking, mobile wallets, and payment gateways, offline transactions include point-of-sale (POS) transactions, ATM withdrawals, and transactions through physical payment instruments like debit or credit cards. Thus, statement 2 is not correct.
• Payment system operators in India are primarily regulated by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and not the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The RBI is the central bank of India and has the authority to regulate and supervise payment systems to ensure their safety, security, and efficiency. Thus, statement 3 is not correct.
• Payment system operators in India can include prepaid payment instrument issuers, such as e-wallets and mobile payment apps, card networks that facilitate card-based transactions like Visa and Mastercard, and payment gateway providers that offer online payment processing services. These entities play a vital role in the smooth functioning of digital payment systems by providing the necessary infrastructure and services to facilitate electronic transactions securely and efficiently. They are subject to regulation by the Reserve Bank of India to maintain the integrity and stability of the payment system. Thus, statement 4 is correct.

Explanation:

• Chandrayaan-2: Chandrayaan-2 is a lunar mission conducted by the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). It was India's second lunar exploration mission, following the successful Chandrayaan-1 mission. Chandrayaan-2 aimed to land a rover named Pragyan on the lunar surface, but unfortunately, the landing did not go as planned. Nevertheless, the mission was significant as it sought to explore the uncharted regions of the moon and study its surface, composition, and environment. Thus, pair 1 is correctly matched.
• Yutu-2: Yutu-2 is a lunar mission conducted by China. Yutu-2, also known as the Jade Rabbit 2, is a lunar rover that was a part of China's Chang'e-4 mission. The mission successfully landed on the far side of the moon, becoming the first ever soft landing on this unexplored region. Yutu-2 rover is designed to study the lunar surface, geology, and carry out various experiments to gain insights into the moon's history and composition. Thus, pair 2 is correctly matched.
• Luna-Glob: Luna-Glob is a lunar mission planned by Russia. It is a part of Russia's Luna program, which aims to explore the moon and conduct various scientific studies. The Luna-Glob mission aims to send a lander and an orbiter to the moon's surface to conduct research on the environment, geology, and resources of the moon. The mission also intends to collect samples from the moon's surface for analysis. Thus, pair 3 is not correctly matched.
• Apollo 11: Apollo 11 was a historic lunar mission conducted by the United States. It is renowned for being the first manned mission to successfully land humans on the moon. On July 20, 1969, astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin became the first individuals to set foot on the lunar surface. The mission played a significant role in advancing our understanding of the moon and its exploration, marking a major milestone in human space exploration. Thus, pair 4 is not correctly matched.

Explanation:

• Agni Prime is not an ICBM. It falls under the Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile (IRBM) category. ICBMs typically have a much longer range capability and are capable of intercontinental flight. Thus, statement 1 is not correct.
• The missile is equipped with multiple independently targetable re-entry vehicles (MIRVs), enabling it to deliver multiple warheads to separate locations within a range of 1,000 - 2,000 km. This range places it in the intermediate range category rather than the 5000-kilometer range of ICBM. Thus, statement 2 is not correct.
• Agni Prime is designed to carry both conventional and nuclear warheads, providing India with a credible deterrence capability. The flexibility to carry different types of warheads allows for a range of strategic options. Thus, statement 3 is correct.
• Agni Prime is not a naval variant of the Agni series. It is a land-based missile designed for strategic purposes. India has developed separate naval variants, such as the Agni-II and Agni-III, specifically for deployment on submarines or other naval platforms. Thus, statement 4 is not correct.

Explanation:

• The G20 Digital Innovation Alliance (G20-DIA) is an initiative that focuses on fostering digital innovation and collaboration among the G20 member countries. It seeks to leverage digital technologies and advancements to drive economic growth, enhance competitiveness, and address global challenges. Thus, statement 1 is correct.
• The G20-DIA is not an informal forum that operates under the auspices of the United Nations. It is an initiative launched by the G20 member countries themselves. The G20 is a group of 19 major economies and the European Union, and they jointly drive the agenda of the G20-DIA to facilitate cooperation and dialogue on digital innovation and related policies. Thus, statement 2 is not correct.
• G20-DIA does indeed focus on policy coordination and sharing best practices in various areas related to digital innovation. These areas include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, digital infrastructure, data governance, e-commerce, and digital skills development. The alliance aims to foster collaboration and information exchange to promote responsible and inclusive digital transformation among the G20 member countries. Thus, statement 3 is correct.

Explanation:

• The ICCPR is a treaty that was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1966. As a legally binding treaty, member states that have ratified it are obligated to uphold and protect the civil and political rights outlined in the covenant. Thus, statement 1 is not correct.
• The ICCPR recognizes the right to freedom of speech and expression as a fundamental human right. This right encompasses the freedom to hold opinions, seek, receive, and impart information and ideas through any media. Thus, statement 2 is correct.
• While the ICCPR has been ratified by a significant majority of member states of the United Nations, it has not been ratified by all member states. As of the present, 173 countries have ratified the ICCPR, demonstrating their commitment to uphold the civil and political rights enshrined in the covenant. Thus, statement 3 is not correct.

Explanation:

• Fuel Cell AIP technology is indeed used in submarines to provide extended underwater endurance without the need to surface. The fuel cells produce electricity by consuming stored hydrogen and oxygen from the air, allowing submarines to operate submerged for longer periods. Thus, statement 1 is correct.
• Fuel Cell AIP systems generate electricity by combining hydrogen and oxygen, resulting in the production of water and heat as byproducts. This electrochemical reaction is a characteristic feature of fuel cell technology. Thus, statement 2 is correct.
• Fuel Cell AIP technology is used in submarines to provide extended underwater endurance without the need to surface. Thus, statement 3 is not correct.
• Fuel Cell AIP systems do not require frequent refueling with conventional fuels. Instead, they rely on stored hydrogen and oxygen, which are consumed within the fuel cell to generate electricity. This process eliminates the need for regular refueling with conventional fuels. Thus, statement 4 is not correct.

Explanation:

• La Niña refers to a climate pattern characterized by cooler sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. It often leads to changes in atmospheric circulation patterns, which can impact weather conditions globally. La Niña events are associated with specific climate patterns, such as increased rainfall in some areas and drought conditions in others. Thus, statement 1 is correct.
• El Niño refers to a climate pattern characterized by warmer than average sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific Ocean. It is associated with changes in atmospheric circulation that can result in increased rainfall and warmer temperatures in the western coast of South America. El Niño events can also have global impacts, affecting weather patterns in different regions. Thus, statement 2 is correct.
• Both La Niña and El Niño phenomena are part of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, which is a recurring climate pattern caused by interactions between the ocean and atmosphere in the tropical Pacific region. The ENSO cycle alternates between El Niño (warmer sea surface temperatures) and La Niña (cooler sea surface temperatures) phases, influencing global weather patterns and impacting various regions across the world. Thus, statement 3 is correct.

Explanation:

• Kilauea Volcano - Shield Volcano: Kilauea, located in Hawaii, is a well-known shield volcano. It is one of the most active volcanoes on Earth and has a broad, gently sloping profile characterized by basaltic lava flows. Thus, pair 1 is not correctly matched.
• Mount Fuji is a well-known and iconic volcano located in Japan. It is situated on the main island of Honshu and is the highest mountain in Japan. Mount Fuji is known for its symmetrical cone shape and is a popular tourist destination. Thus, pair 2 is correctly matched.
• Popocatépetl is an active stratovolcano located in Mexico. It is situated in the eastern half of the Trans-Mexican Volcanic Belt, in the states of Puebla, Mexico, and Morelos. Popocatépetl is one of the most active volcanoes in Mexico and has a significant impact on the surrounding region. Thus, pair 3 is correctly matched.
• Mount Kilimanjaro is a dormant volcano located in Tanzania, East Africa. It is the highest mountain in Africa and is part of the Kilimanjaro National Park. Mount Kilimanjaro consists of three volcanic cones and is a popular destination for trekkers and mountaineers. Thus, pair 4 is correctly matched.
• Mount Erebus is an active stratovolcano situated on Ross Island in Antarctica. It is the southernmost active volcano on Earth and is part of the Pacific Ring of Fire. Mount Erebus is known for its persistent lava lake, making it a unique and scientifically significant volcano. Thus, pair 5 is not correctly matched.

Explanation:

• The Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) is indeed responsible for assessing approvals for the environmental release of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in India. The committee evaluates the potential risks and benefits associated with GMOs and ensures their safety before granting any approvals. Thus, statement 1 is correct.
• The GEAC operates under the administrative control of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) in India. It is a statutory body that functions as the apex regulatory authority for approving GMO-related activities and ensuring environmental safety. Thus, statement 2 is not correct.
• The GEAC has the authority to grant environmental clearances for conducting field trials of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in India. Field trials involve testing the performance, safety, and environmental impact of GMOs in controlled field conditions before their potential commercial release. Thus, statement 3 is correct.
• The GEAC's regulatory scope extends beyond genetically modified crops intended for commercial cultivation. While the committee does oversee the evaluation and regulation of genetically modified crops, it also regulates other GMO-related activities such as research, development, import, and use for non-commercial purposes. The GEAC ensures that all GMO activities in India adhere to necessary safety protocols and guidelines. Thus, statement 4 is not correct.

Explanation:

• Green Hydrogen is produced through the electrolysis of water using renewable energy sources like solar or wind power. During the electrolysis process, water is split into hydrogen and oxygen, with the hydrogen being captured as Green Hydrogen. By using renewable energy sources to power the electrolysis process, the production of Green Hydrogen avoids greenhouse gas emissions. Thus, statement 1 is correct.
• Green Hydrogen has negligible carbon emissions since it is produced using renewable energy sources. Unlike conventional hydrogen production methods, which often rely on fossil fuels and result in carbon emissions, Green Hydrogen production utilizes clean energy sources. By substituting fossil fuel-based hydrogen with Green Hydrogen, we can reduce greenhouse gas emissions and contribute to mitigating climate change. Thus, statement 2 is correct.
• While Green Hydrogen can be used as a fuel for transportation, such as in hydrogen-powered vehicles, it is not primarily limited to that application. Green Hydrogen has a wide range of uses across industries and sectors. It can be used in industrial processes, power generation, energy storage, and as a feedstock for the production of various chemicals. Its versatility makes it a promising option for decarbonizing multiple sectors, not just transportation. Thus, statement 3 is not correct.

Explanation

• The Gini coefficient is a statistical measure used to assess income inequality within a population. It ranges between 0 and 1, where 0 represents perfect income equality, and 1 represents maximum income inequality. Thus, statement 1 is correct.
• A Gini coefficient of 1 does not indicate perfect income equality. Rather, it signifies maximum income inequality, where one individual or group possesses all the income, and the rest have none. Thus, statement 2 is not correct.
• A Gini coefficient of 0 does not indicate perfect income inequality. It suggests perfect income equality, where all individuals or groups in the population possess the same income. Thus, statement 3 is not correct.
• The Gini coefficient is calculated based on the Lorenz curve, which is a graphical representation of the cumulative distribution of income among a population. The Lorenz curve plots the cumulative share of the population on the horizontal axis and the cumulative share of income on the vertical axis.
• The Gini coefficient is derived by calculating the area between the Lorenz curve and the line of perfect income equality (the line of equality, where the cumulative share of income equals the cumulative share of the population). This area is then divided by the total area under the line of equality.
• The Gini coefficient is widely used by economists, policymakers, and researchers to analyze income distribution patterns, assess the effectiveness of social policies, and identify areas where income inequality is particularly high. It provides a useful tool for understanding the extent of inequality within a population and guiding efforts to address and reduce income disparities.

Explanation:

• World Development Report (World Bank): The World Development Report is an annual publication by the World Bank. It focuses on specific themes related to global development and provides in-depth analysis, data, and policy recommendations. The report examines critical development challenges and explores strategies to address them, covering a wide range of topics such as poverty reduction, education, health, infrastructure, governance, and climate change. The World Development Report serves as a valuable resource for policymakers, researchers, and development practitioners. Thus, pair 1 is correctly matched.
• Global Competitiveness Report (World Economic Forum): The Global Competitiveness Report is published by the World Economic Forum (WEF). It assesses the competitiveness of countries and economies based on various factors such as institutions, infrastructure, macroeconomic environment, healthcare, education, technological readiness, innovation, and market efficiency. The report provides rankings and indicators that help policymakers, businesses, and investors understand the factors influencing a country's competitiveness and identify areas for improvement to enhance economic growth and productivity. Thus, pair 2 is correctly matched.
• World Economic Outlook (International Monetary Fund): The World Economic Outlook is a biannual publication by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). It provides comprehensive analysis, forecasts, and assessments of the global economy, including key economic indicators, trends, and risks. The report covers a wide range of topics, including economic growth prospects, inflation, monetary policy, fiscal policy, trade, and financial stability. The World Economic Outlook is widely regarded as an authoritative source for understanding global economic trends and guiding policy decisions. Thus, pair 3 is correctly matched.
• Human Development Report (United Nations Development Programme): The Human Development Report is an annual publication by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It focuses on human development indicators and assesses the progress of countries in areas such as education, healthcare, income, gender equality, and sustainable development. The report provides insights into the well-being and quality of life of individuals, communities, and nations. It highlights challenges, inequalities, and opportunities for human development and advocates for policies that promote inclusive and sustainable development. Thus, pair 4 is correctly matched.