Daily Quiz

Solution (b)
Explanation:
• Cells that form the epithelial layers are called epithelial cells. These cells provide protective barriers and are tightly bound together.
• Mesenchymal cells are multipotent stromal cells capable of differentiating into a variety of cell types, including osteoblasts (bone cells), chondrocytes (cartilage cells), adipocytes (fat cells), and myocytes (muscle cells). These cells play a critical role in tissue repair, regeneration, and development of the skeletal system. (Option (b) is correct)
• Cells responsible for producing antibodies are B-lymphocytes (a type of white blood cell). Mesenchymal cells do not have immune functions directly related to antibody production.
• Cells that generate electrical impulses in the heart are pacemaker cells (e.g., in the sinoatrial node), while neurons are responsible for impulse generation in the nervous system.

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/bangalore/iisc-study-reveals-how-cancer-cells-adapt-while-moving-across-tissues/article68898219.ece

Solution (a)

Explanation:

• The Global Development Compact is an idea proposed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi to strengthen development cooperation within the Global South. It focuses on helping developing nations achieve their development goals through measures like:
  • Joint R&D projects and co-creation of knowledge.
  • Establishing technical institutes and shared indigenous technologies.
  • Providing concessional finance and grants to support development projects.
• The initiative underscores India’s commitment to fostering solidarity and collaboration among nations in the Global South. (Option (a) is correct)
• Although the G20 addresses climate adaptation and development challenges, the Global Development Compact is not a G20 initiative. It is a vision proposed specifically for the Global South, focusing on broader development goals beyond climate adaptation. (Option (b) is incorrect)
• While the UN promotes reducing inequality through frameworks like the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), this compact is an independent idea aimed at cooperation within the Global South. (Option (c) is incorrect)
• The World Bank supports private sector investment in low-income countries through initiatives like the International Finance Corporation (IFC) and IDA programs. (Option (d) is incorrect)

Source: https://www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/democratising-ai-needs-a-radically-different-approach/article68899326.ece#:~:text=To%20break%20Big%20Tech's%20hold,and%20supporting%20local%20start%2Dups.

Solution (d)

Explanation:

• The Ministry of Finance publishes various reports related to the economy, such as the Economic Survey of India (released annually before the Union Budget) and the Union Budget itself.
• NITI Aayog publishes key reports on development and governance, such as the Strategy for New India, the SDG India Index, and sectoral reports like those on health, education, and infrastructure.
• SEBI regulates the securities market and publishes reports like the Annual Report and periodic updates on market trends, regulations, and investor protection measures.

• The ‘State of the Economy’ report is published by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) as part of its monthly Bulletin. This report provides an analysis of India’s current economic conditions, including growth trends, inflation, fiscal developments, external trade, and financial markets. It serves as an important tool for understanding the central bank’s assessment of the economy and its policy implications. (Option (d) is correct)

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/editorials/government-and-rbi-disagree-on-interest-rates-neither-is-wrong-9684597/

Solution (a)

Explanation:

• Anti-Microbial Resistance (AMR) is a phenomenon where microorganisms adapt and survive exposure to antimicrobial drugs like antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and antiparasitic, rendering these drugs ineffective. This resistance arises due to genetic mutations and the transfer of resistance genes among microorganisms. (Statement 1 is correct)
• The misuse and overuse of antibiotics in human healthcare (e.g., self-medication or over-prescription) and in livestock (e.g., as growth promoters or for disease prevention in healthy animals) are key factors driving AMR. These practices expose microorganisms to antimicrobial drugs, accelerating the development of resistance. (Statement 2 is incorrect)
• AMR is recognized as a major global health threat by the World Health Organization (WHO). It affects both developed and developing countries. Globally, it leads to increased healthcare costs, prolonged hospital stays, and higher mortality rates. The Global Action Plan on AMR underscores the need for international cooperation to combat AMR. (Statement 3 is incorrect)

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/opinion/columns/how-to-fight-back-against-the-toughest-diseases-9684605/

Solution (d)

Explanation:

• The Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve is situated in the northern tribal Sarguja region of Chhattisgarh. It is the fourth tiger reserve in the state, following Achanakmar, Indravati, and Udanti Sitanadi tiger reserves. This region is ecologically significant for its diverse flora and fauna, contributing to the state’s conservation efforts. (Statement 1 is correct)
• The Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve is geographically located between the Bandhavgarh Tiger Reserve in Madhya Pradesh and the Palamau Tiger Reserve in Jharkhand. Its proximity to these reserves enhances its importance as a wildlife corridor and contributes to connectivity for tiger populations in the region. (Statement 2 is correct)

• The Guru Ghasidas-Tamor Pingla Tiger Reserve spans an area of 2,829.387 sq. km, making it the third largest tiger reserve in India. Its large size offers diverse habitats, including hills, plateaus, valleys, and river systems, making it crucial for wildlife conservation. (Statement 3 is correct)

Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/chhattisgarhs-newest-tiger-reserve-9684697/