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141. Which country has successfully phased out the manufacturing of hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) in new equipment by December 31, 2024?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] France
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
In 2024, India achieved a significant milestone by completely phasing out hydrochlorofluorocarbons (HCFCs) in its manufacturing processes, thereby fulfilling its obligations under the Montreal Protocol. This initiative plays a vital role in safeguarding the ozone layer and combating climate change. The Montreal Protocol, which was established in 1987, has been instrumental in the global reduction of substances that deplete the ozone layer. India’s recent efforts represent a progressive step towards sustainable environmental practices. The country became a signatory to the Vienna Convention in 1991 and subsequently joined the Montreal Protocol in 1992. It formulated a phased approach to eliminate ozone-depleting substances, successfully achieving significant reductions by 2010. The recent elimination of HCFCs is an integral component of a broader strategy aimed at addressing climate change and preserving the ozone layer.
142. The Sanjiangyuan National Park, which was seen in the news about the snow leopard recently, is located in which country?
[A] Japan
[B] Russia
[C] China
[D] Canada
Correct Answer: C [China]
Notes:
Recent research indicates that the Sanjiangyuan region in Qinghai province, China, serves as an essential habitat for snow leopards, with an estimated population of around 1,000 individuals. This area plays a crucial role in the conservation of this endangered species, as it represents a significant segment of their worldwide population. The results underscore the necessity of comprehending the dynamics of snow leopards to develop effective conservation strategies.
143. Which research institute has recently announced green hydrogen projects face major implementation challenges?
[A] Grantham Institute – Climate Change and Environment
[B] Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research
[C] Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich
[D] University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences
Correct Answer: B [Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research]
Notes:
A recent study by researchers at the Potsdam Institute for Climate Impact Research reveals that the surge in announcements related to green hydrogen initiatives has not translated into successful project implementations. Although ambitious goals have been established, only a small percentage of these proposed projects have progressed to operational status, underscoring considerable challenges within the industry. In 2023, researchers tracked 190 green hydrogen projects globally, but only 0.3 GW of the projected 4.3 GW capacity was realized, resulting in a mere 7% success rate. Delays were widespread, with 86% of projects announced in 2021 failing to adhere to their original timelines. The main obstacles identified include rising costs of electrolysers, insufficient offtake agreements, and a lack of supportive policies. These issues collectively hinder timely project execution and erode investor confidence.
144. The National Green Tribunal has recently issued a notice over Olive Ridley turtle deaths for which state?
[A] Odisha
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: C [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
In the past few weeks, Tamil Nadu has experienced a troubling increase in the number of deceased olive ridley turtles appearing along its shores, especially in Chennai. Experts estimate that approximately 300 to 350 turtles have been discovered dead, which has raised significant concerns among conservationists and the general public. This unexpected surge in mortality during the onset of the nesting season has led to inquiries aimed at uncovering the underlying reasons for these fatalities. A significant number of deceased olive ridley turtles have been documented along the coastline of Chennai and within the Kancheepuram district. Notable sites include Neelankarai, Besant Nagar, and Kovalam. The Forest Department of the state is currently in the process of collecting information regarding this matter. Additionally, there have been reports of turtle remains found in Pulicat, located in the Thiruvalluvar district.
145. Which of the following has indicated that Carbon Dioxide concentration will peak at 429.6 ppm in early 2025, the highest in over two million years?
[A] Mauna Loa Observatory
[B] The Kitt Peak National Observatory
[C] Royal Observatory Greenwich
[D]La Silla Observatory
Correct Answer: A [Mauna Loa Observatory]
Notes:
In early 2025, it is anticipated that atmospheric carbon dioxide concentrations will attain unprecedented levels, prompting significant concerns regarding climate change. Data from the Mauna Loa Observatory in Hawaii suggests that CO2 levels will reach a peak of 429.6 ppm, marking the highest concentration in over two million years. This surge is particularly troubling as it undermines the objectives set forth in the Paris Agreement, which seeks to limit global temperature rise. Between 2023 and 2024, CO2 levels experienced an increase of 3.58 ppm, representing the most rapid annual rise on record, exceeding the Met Office’s forecast of 2.84 ppm. Satellite observations corroborate these global increases, which are primarily attributed to fossil fuel emissions and a decline in carbon sequestration.
146. Which organization study has recently revealed that the 2022 Nord Stream pipeline explosion caused the largest human-induced methane release ever recorded?
[A] French National Centre for Scientific Research
[B] World Meteorological Organization (WMO)
[C] United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)
[D] World Climate Research Programme (WCRP)
Correct Answer: C [United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)]
Notes:
A study conducted by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) indicated that the explosions of the Nord Stream pipeline in 2022 resulted in the most significant human-induced methane emission ever documented. The Nord Stream pipeline, which runs beneath the Baltic Sea, links Vyborg in Russia to Lubmin, located near Greifswald in Germany. This twin pipeline system was established to enhance energy security for Europe, particularly for Germany, by providing a direct and dependable supply of natural gas from Russia while circumventing transit nations.
147. Goby fish has recently discovered at which wildlife sanctuary of Andhra Pradesh?
[A] Sri Venkateswara Wildlife Sanctuary
[B] Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary
[C] Rollapadu Wildlife Sanctuary
[D] Krishna Wildlife Sanctuary
Correct Answer: B [Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary]
Notes:
Recently, a significant discovery was made by researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) at the Coringa Wildlife Sanctuary in Andhra Pradesh. They identified two new species of goby fish, namely Hemigobius hoevenii and Mugilogobius tigrinus, which had not been previously recorded. This finding is particularly noteworthy as it represents the first documentation of M. tigrinus along the eastern coastline of India, highlighting the critical role of mangrove ecosystems. Goby fish play an essential role in estuarine environments, acting as indicators of ecological health and occupying various trophic levels, thereby contributing to the overall ecological equilibrium. Coringa, recognized as the third largest mangrove forest in India, is situated near Kakinada and is home to 24 species of mangrove trees and over 120 bird species, including critically endangered vultures. The ZSI researchers noted that 95 out of the 135 goby species recorded in India are found in mangrove habitats, with 53 of these species residing within the sanctuary, underscoring its rich biodiversity.
148. Vivad Se Vishwas scheme is associated with which sector?
[A] Education
[B] Transports
[C] Taxation
[D] Defence
Correct Answer: C [Taxation]
Notes:
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has pushed back the deadline for the Vivad Se Vishwas scheme to January 31, 2025, instead of December 31, 2024. This scheme was introduced in the Union Budget for 2023-24. It is based on the 2019 Sabka Vishwas Scheme, which dealt with indirect taxes. The Vivad Se Vishwas scheme helps settle disputes related to taxes, interest, and penalties. It also offers protection from prosecution under the Income-tax Act for issues covered in the declaration.
149. Which ministry has set ambitious goals for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) in 2024-25?
[A] Ministry of Rural Development
[B] Ministry of Current Affairs
[C] Ministry of Ministry of Finance
[D] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Rural Development]
Notes:
The Ministry of Rural Development in India has established significant objectives for the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-Gramin (PMAY-G) for the fiscal year 2024-25. This initiative is integral to a comprehensive approach aimed at reducing poverty in rural regions. To facilitate the prompt execution of housing programs, the ministry intends to set monthly benchmarks. In a recent announcement, the Ministry of Rural Development has reaffirmed its objective of approving the construction of 10 lakh houses in January 2025. As part of this initiative, the ministry plans to disburse the initial installment to the beneficiaries. The establishment of monthly targets is expected to facilitate the effective execution of the housing scheme. For the financial year 2024-25, a substantial budget of Rs 54,500 crore has been earmarked to support this endeavor.
150. Which initiative has remarked a significant advancement in India’s research and education landscape?
[A] One Library One Subscription
[B] One Nation One Library
[C] One Nation One Subscription
[D] One Click One Subscription
Correct Answer: C [One Nation One Subscription]
Notes:
One Nation One Subscription (ONOS), which commenced on January 1, 2025, offers Indian students, educators, and researchers the opportunity to access more than 13,000 international academic journals spanning a wide range of disciplines. The One Nation One Subscription (ONOS) initiative marks a significant advancement in India’s research and education landscape. This scheme aims to provide comprehensive access to international scholarly journals and articles for students, faculty, researchers, and scientists across the nation’s government higher education institutions (HEIs) and central government research and development (R&D) centres.
