11 February : Daily Current Affairs Quiz

Answer: Option B - Sri Lanka

Explanation:

• Ekanite is a rare radioactive silicate mineral primarily found in Sri Lanka. It contains uranium and thorium, making it naturally radioactive.
• Over time, its crystal structure degrades due to self-radiation damage, a process called metamictization.
• Due to its rarity and radioactivity, ekanite is of interest in geology and mineralogy.
• While traces exist elsewhere, Sri Lanka remains its primary known source.

Answer: Option C - It can lead to a weakening of the Indian monsoon due to altered atmospheric circulation patterns.

Explanation:

• El Niño is caused by the weakening of trade winds, leading to warmer-than-normal sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern Pacific.
• This disrupts global weather patterns, including weakening the Indian monsoon due to changes in atmospheric circulation.
• It also reduces upwelling along the Peruvian coast, harming marine biodiversity. El Niño has global climatic impacts, affecting rainfall, droughts, and temperature patterns worldwide.

Answer: Option B - It lacks the H antigen required to form A or B antigens.

Explanation:

• The Bombay Blood Group (HH blood group) was discovered in Mumbai in 1952.
• Unlike common ABO groups, it lacks the H antigen, which is necessary for forming A or B antigens.
• As a result, individuals with this blood group cannot receive blood from any ABO group, including type O.
• It is a rare blood type, with a higher prevalence in Mumbai (1 in 10,000 people).

Answer: Option D - National Mission on Clean Air

Explanation:

The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC), launched in 2008, comprises eight missions:

1. National Solar Mission – Promotes solar energy.
2. National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency – Improves energy efficiency.
3. National Mission on Sustainable Habitat – Focuses on urban sustainability.
4. National Water Mission – Enhances water conservation.
5. National Mission for Sustaining the Himalayan Ecosystem – Protects Himalayan ecology.
6. National Green India Mission – Expands forest cover.
7. National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture – Adapts agriculture to climate change.
8. National Mission on Strategic Knowledge for Climate Change – Advances climate research.

Answer: Option D - Mangrove conservation

Explanation:

• MISHTI focuses on mangrove ecosystem conservation and restoration to enhance coastal resilience against climate change impacts like cyclones and sea-level rise.
• It promotes sustainable livelihoods for coastal communities through eco-tourism, fisheries, and afforestation.
• The initiative integrates existing schemes like MGNREGA and CAMPA for funding and implementation. By strengthening natural coastal defenses, MISHTI supports biodiversity, mitigates carbon emissions, and ensures long-term environmental sustainability.