20 February : Daily Current Affairs Quiz

Answer: Option B - Their use of polarised moonlight for navigation

Explanation:

• Scientists at Macquarie University, Sydney, discovered that nocturnal bull ants (Myrmecia pyriformis & Myrmecia midas) navigate using polarised moonlight, a rare ability among animals.
• This helps them forage efficiently at night, with their accuracy influenced by the lunar cycle. They also use polarised sunlight during the day.
• Their large eyes aid in detecting low-light cues, making them highly specialized nocturnal navigators in their Australian habitats.

Answer: Option A- Chhatrapati Shivaji and Afzal Khan

Explanation:

• The Battle of Pratapgad (1659) was fought between Chhatrapati Shivaji and Bijapur general Afzal Khan.
• Afzal Khan, sent by the Adil Shahi Sultanate to subdue Shivaji, was lured into a trap at Pratapgad Fort.
• Chhatrapati Shivaji killed Afzal Khan using a concealed weapon (tiger claws) during a diplomatic meeting, leading to a decisive victory.
• This battle significantly strengthened Shivaji Maharaj’s position in the Deccan.

Answer: Option C - Providing free skill training to marginalized groups for employment opportunities

Explanation:

• The PM-DAKSH (Pradhan Mantri Dakshta Aur Kaushal Sampann Hitgrahi) scheme aims to provide free skill training to marginalized communities such as Scheduled Castes (SCs), Other Backward Classes (OBCs), Economically Backward Classes (EBCs), Denotified and Nomadic Tribes (DNTs), and Safai Karamcharis.
• Launched in 2021, it enhances employment opportunities through short-term and long-term training
• The scheme ensures at least 70% placement and aligns with national skill development standards, promoting economic empowerment and self-sufficiency.

Answer: Option A - Argentina, Bolivia, Chile

Explanation:

• The Lithium Triangle refers to the region spanning Argentina, Bolivia, and Chile, which holds over 50% of the world’s lithium reserves.
• These countries, located in South America, have vast lithium-rich salt flats, essential for electric vehicle batteries and renewable energy storage.
• Unlike other regions, lithium in the Lithium Triangle is mainly extracted from brine deposits.
• This region plays a crucial role in the global energy transition and battery technology.

Answer: Option B - Foreign Minister responsible for diplomatic relations

Explanation:

• The Ashta Pradhan was an eight-member council formed by Chhatrapati Shivaji to efficiently govern his empire.
• The Sumant was the Foreign Minister, responsible for managing diplomatic relations, treaties, and external affairs.
• Other key positions included Peshwa (Prime Minister), Amatya (Finance Minister), and Senapati (Military Commander).
• This council ensured administrative efficiency and helped Shivaji establish a strong and well-organized governance system in the Maratha Empire.