Current Affairs MCQs for UPSC & State PSC Exams (21 August 2023)

Current Affairs MCQs Quiz for UPSC, IAS, UPPSC/UPPCS, MPPSC. BPSC, RPSC & All State PSC Exams

Date: 21 August 2023

1. With reference to Agnibaan SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator (SOrTeD), consider the following statements:

1. It is a single-stage launch vehicle powered by Agnilet engine, which is an entirely 3D-printed, single-piece, semi-cryogenic engine.
2. Agnibaan can carry payloads of up to 100 kg to a low Earth orbit (LEO) of up to 700 km.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (C)

Explanation: Agnikul Cosmos, an Indian space-tech startup, to carry out a sub-orbital test flight of its launch vehicle called Agnibaan SOrTeD. It is a single-stage launch vehicle powered by Agnilet engine, which is an entirely 3D-printed, single-piece, semi-cryogenic engine. Agnibaan can carry payloads of up to 100 kg to a low Earth orbit (LEO) of up to 700 km. Unlike traditional sounding rockets that launch from guide rails, Agnibaan SOrTeD will lift off vertically and follow a predetermined trajectory. Hence, both statements are correct.

2. Matti Banana, recently seen in news, has been granted GI tag. It belongs to which state?

(a) Tamil Nadu
(b) Uttar Pradesh
(c) Bihar
(d) Andhra Pradesh

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Matti Banana of Kanyakumari (Tamil Nadu) was granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag. Matti Banana is commonly known as ‘Baby Banana’ and is known for its distinct fragrance and honey-like taste. Its low total soluble solids content (TSSC) recommends it as a baby food. Unlike typical banana bunches that grow straight, the Matti’s fingers exhibit a distinct wind-blown appearance. Hence, option (a) is correct.

3. With reference to Haliaeetus leucogaster, consider the following statements:

1. It is a White-Bellied Sea Eagle that is found throughout Southeast Asia.
2. They exhibit sexual dimorphism, with males being slightly larger than females.
3. It is listed as Least Concern on IUCN red list.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) Only one
(b) Only two
(c) All three
(d) None

Answer: (B)

Explanation:

  • White-Bellied Sea Eagle is a large diurnal bird of prey. It’s Scientific Name is Haliaeetus leucogaster. They are found throughout Southeast Asia. They range from north to south from southern China to Australia and Tasmania, and west to east from India to New Guinea. Hence, statement 1 is correct.
  • They exhibit sexual dimorphism, with females being slightly larger than males. White-bellied Sea Eagles are primarily piscivorous, meaning they primarily feed on fish. They may also prey on water birds, small mammals, and carrion (dead animals). Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.

It is listed as Least Concern on IUCN red list. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

4. NBRI-Nihar recently seen in news, is related to which of the following?

(a) A variety of Lotus developed by CSIR.
(b) A variety of Aloe Vera.
(c) A variety of transgenic plant.
(d) A plant derived Vaccine.

Answer: (B)

Explanation: Dr Jitendra Singh unveils new variety "Lotus" flower developed by Lucknow Institute CSIR-NBRI (National Botanical Research Institute): Named ‘Namoh 108’, the new Lotus has 108 petals. S&T Minister also launches and releases a slew of initiatives and publications including the new variety of Aloe vera named ‘NBRI-Nihar’, having approximately 2.5 times high gel yield in comparison to Aloe vera. Hence, option (b) is correct.

5. Consider the following statements, with reference to Debt-for-Nature Swaps:

1. They are financial transactions that reduce a country’s debt in exchange for environmental conservation.
2. The world’s first and largest debt swap was signed by Japan.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 only
(b) 2 only
(c) Both 1 and 2
(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: (A)

Explanation: Debt-for-nature swaps are financial transactions in which a portion of a developing nation's foreign debt is forgiven in exchange for local investments in environmental conservation measures. The world’s first and largest debt swap to conserve oceans was signed by Ecuador. Gabon’s Debt-for-nature swap is the world’s second-largest deal signed under blue bond to refinance the country’s debt and conserve marine resource. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.