Reports & Indices Current Affairs MCQs – January 2025

Correct Answer: A [123]
Notes:
A recent study published in the indexed medical journal ‘Nature Aging’ reveals that India occupies the 123rd position out of 143 countries, which collectively represent 95.4% of the global population, in terms of its preparedness to address the challenges associated with an aging demographic. Switzerland occupies the top position in the ranking with an impressive score of 82.3, followed by Norway and Denmark, which are positioned second and third, respectively. At present, India is recognized as the youngest nation globally, with over 50% of its population under the age of 25 and more than 65% below the age of 35. However, this demographic landscape is expected to shift significantly in the coming decades, resulting in India having the largest population of elderly individuals. The research was conducted by scholars from the National University of Singapore (NUS) and Columbia University in the United States, who introduced a novel metric known as the “Global Aging Index.” Rwanda (143rd) is noted as the lowest-ranked country in the index, with an overall score of 36.6, followed by Togo (142nd), Afghanistan (141st), Benin (140th), and Malawi (139th).

Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI)]
Notes:
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MoSPI) has declared the commencement of multiple significant surveys set to begin in January 2025. These surveys are intended to collect essential data across diverse sectors such as health, telecommunications, education, and labor force dynamics. The National Statistics Office (NSO) will be responsible for managing these surveys, which are structured to yield comprehensive estimates at both detailed and district levels.

Correct Answer: D [Ministry of Commerce and Industry]
Notes:
The 2024 Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) report has recognized 13 states and Union Territories as top performers in logistics. Released by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, this report assesses how well logistics services operate. The index is designed to boost trade and lower transaction costs, which are vital for economic development. This report highlights the advancements made since 2023, when the same number of states were acknowledged for their logistics strengths. The report divides states into three groups: “achievers,” “fast movers,” and “aspirers.” The fast movers are Andhra Pradesh, Goa, Bihar, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, and Rajasthan. The aspirers include Kerala, West Bengal, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Ladakh. This classification shows where improvements and investments are needed.

Correct Answer: A [EAC-PM]
Notes:
The EAC-PM report shows a significant decline in rural-to-urban migration in India. The migration rate decreased from 37.6% in 2011 to 28.9% in 2023. This change has resulted in more people staying in rural areas, increased reliance on agriculture, rising food prices, and stagnant wages in rural regions. The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM) noted that domestic migration fell by 53.7 million in 2023, which is an 11.8% decrease compared to 2011. Overall, the migration rate dropped from 37.6% in 2011 to 28.9% in 2023, with economic migration also down by 5 million, from 45 million in 2011 to 40 million in 2023.

Correct Answer: B [The Lancet]
Notes:
Global Nutrition Targets (GNTs) were set by the World Health Assembly to address malnutrition in mothers and children. These targets focus on decreasing stunting, anemia, and childhood obesity by 2030. A recent study in The Lancet highlighted the slow progress made from 2012 to 2021 in 204 countries. The results indicate that many countries will probably not achieve the GNTs, highlighting the need for immediate action and new strategies.