Current Affairs Quiz – July, 2024

6.What is the primary objective of the LOw-Frequency ARray (LOFAR), recently seen in news?
[A] To study the Earth’s core
[B] To observe the Universe at low radio frequencies
[C] To monitor climate change
[D] To track asteroid movements

Correct Answer: B [To observe the Universe at low radio frequencies]
Notes:
Astronomers discovered a new radio galaxy using the LOw-Frequency ARray (LOFAR), a pan-European distributed radio interferometer developed by the Dutch Institute for Radio Astronomy (ASTRON). LOFAR observes the Universe at low radio frequencies (90-200 MHz) and can simultaneously observe multiple directions. It aims to explore the early universe, solar activity, and the terrestrial atmosphere. LOFAR’s innovative design includes advanced digital beam-forming for agile, multi-user operations.

 

7.Which government agency recently released the report titled “Improving the Culture of Research and Development (R&D) in State Universities and Institutes”?
[A] National Disaster Management Authority
[B] Intellectual Property Appellate Board
[C] NITI Aayog
[D] Telecom Regulatory Authority of India

Correct Answer: C [NITI Aayog]
Notes:
NITI Aayog’s report on R&D in Indian state universities highlights a doubling of Gross Expenditure on R&D (GERD) to Rs. 127,381 crore in 2020-21 from Rs. 60,197 crore in 2010-11. Government sectors, including central and state governments, and higher education institutions drive GERD. R&D fosters innovation, aligns education with industry needs, and addresses societal challenges. However, challenges include low GDP spending on R&D compared to global peers, emphasis on teaching over research, and limited enrollment in advanced programs like Ph.D.

 

8.Recently, Air India is establishing South Asia’s largest flight training school in which state?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Gujarat

Correct Answer: B [Maharashtra]
Notes:
Air India is establishing South Asia’s largest flight training school in Maharashtra’s Amravati district with an investment of over ₹200 crore. Opening in the next financial year’s first quarter, it will address the airline’s need for 500-700 pilots annually, following a large aircraft order. In partnership with Maharashtra Airport Development Company (MADC), the 10-acre facility will train 180 commercial pilots yearly using 31 single-engine Piper aircraft and three twin-engine Diamond aircraft.

 

9.Which day is observed as ‘International Plastic Bag Free Day’?
[A] 2 July
[B] 3 July
[C] 4 July
[D] 5 July

Correct Answer: B [3 July]
Notes:
International Plastic Bag Free Day is observed on July 3 to encourage avoiding single-use plastics and combat plastic pollution. Established by Bag Free World, the day saw its first observance in 2008, initiated by Rezero, a member of Zero Waste Europe. In 2015, the EU passed directives to reduce single-use plastic bags. Bangladesh was the first country to ban these bags in 2022, followed by India and others.

 

10.‘Jaiva Gramam’ campaign, a new initiative to promote organic farming, recently launched in which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Karnataka
[C] Odisha
[D] Haryana

Correct Answer: A [Kerala]
Notes:
The ‘Jaiva Gramam’ campaign launched in Karumalloor, Kerala, aims to promote organic farming. Supported by the local panchayat and Lions Club, it encourages households to grow vegetables for Onam. Participants receive subsidies for saplings, fertilizers, and tools, and learn from experienced farmers. The initiative aims for sustainable agricultural growth, self-sufficiency in vegetable production, and preserving Kerala’s farming heritage to boost farmers’ economic prospects.
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