27 January : Daily Current Affairs Quiz

Answer: Option B - Zimbabwe

Explanation:

• The fossils of Mbiresaurus raathi, a species of early dinosaur, were discovered in Zimbabwe in 2019.
• This discovery, dating back to approximately 230 million years ago during the Late Triassic period, provided valuable insights into the early stages of dinosaur evolution.
• The species, weighing about 30 kilograms and having a long tail, lived in a hot, dry environment with seasonal wildfires, contributing to our understanding of prehistoric ecosystems.

Answer: Option A - Herbicide

Explanation:

• Paraquat is a highly toxic herbicide widely used for weed control and crop desiccation.
• It is classified by the WHO as moderately hazardous and is banned in over 70 countries due to its extreme toxicity.
• Ingesting even small amounts of paraquat can be fatal.
• Despite its risks, it is still used in some countries like India and the US, though its safety concerns persist.

Answer: Option A - A tool for ensuring party discipline during votes

Explanation:

• In the Indian parliamentary system, a "whip" is an official communication issued by a political party to its members, directing them to vote in line with the party's stance during important votes.
• The whip system ensures party discipline and cohesion. Violation of a whip, especially a three-line whip, can lead to disqualification under the Anti-Defection Law.
• It plays a crucial role in maintaining party unity and ensuring majority strength during parliamentary proceedings.

Answer: Option B - Denmark

Explanation:

• Greenland is an autonomous territory within the Kingdom of Denmark.
• While it governs itself in most domestic matters, including its political and economic affairs, Denmark retains control over defense, foreign policy, and monetary issues.
• Greenland became a part of Denmark in 1721, and in 2009, it gained self-rule through the Greenlandic Self-Government Act.
• Despite this autonomy, Greenland remains politically tied to Denmark.

Answer: Option C - Long-term loans from foreign commercial banks

Explanation:

• External Commercial Borrowings (ECBs) refer to loans or credit facilities availed by a country’s corporates or government from foreign commercial sources, including foreign commercial banks, financial institutions, or international capital markets.
• These loans are typically long-term in nature and are used for funding capital expenditures, modernization, and expansion projects.
• ECBs are an important source of external financing for countries, complementing domestic sources of capital like banks and savings.