Prelims Focussed Current Affairs Analysis- Short news

1. Teal Carbon Study at Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan

Introduction:

India’s first study on ‘teal carbon’ was recently undertaken at the Keoladeo National Park (KNP) in Rajasthan. This study focuses on the carbon stored in non-tidal freshwater wetlands, a less explored aspect of carbon sequestration.

Key Details:

• Teal Carbon Definition: It refers to the organic carbon stored in non-tidal freshwater wetlands, including vegetation, microbial biomass, and dissolved organic matter.
• Components and Sources: Key sources include peatlands, freshwater swamps, and natural freshwater marshes.
• Global Storage: Around 500.21 petagrams of teal carbon (PgC) are stored globally.

Significance:

Teal carbon ecosystems can mitigate climate change by sequestering carbon and regulating greenhouse gases (GHGs). Their additional benefits include groundwater level increase, flood mitigation, and urban heat island reduction, making them crucial for sustainable urban adaptation.

2. PresVu: India's First Eye Drop for Presbyopia

Introduction:

A Mumbai-based company, Entod, has developed PresVu, an eye drop designed to reduce dependency on reading glasses for individuals suffering from presbyopia.

Key Details:

• PresVu Eye Drops: Contains 1.25% pilocarpine, a compound that contracts the iris muscles to improve focus on nearby objects.
• Technology: Uses dynamic buffer technology to adapt to the pH level of tears, ensuring consistent efficacy.
• Side Effects: Regular use may cause itching, redness, and muscle spasms in the eyes.

Significance:

PresVu offers a non-invasive alternative to traditional treatments for presbyopia, such as corrective lenses and surgery, marking a significant advancement in eye care technology in India.

3. Sakthan Thampuran: Legacy of a Powerful Ruler

Introduction:

Recently, the Minister of State for Tourism pledged to renew the statue of Sakthan Thampuran, the King of Cochin from 1790 to 1805, known for his administrative reforms and strong leadership.

Key Details:

• Historical Context: Sakthan Thampuran, also known as Rama Varma IX, was a visionary ruler who modernized the administration of the Cochin kingdom.
• Capital Transfer: He transferred the capital from Thrippunithura to Thrissur.
• Revenue and Trade: He overhauled the kingdom’s revenue management and encouraged trade by inviting merchants from various religions.

Significance:

Sakthan Thampuran's leadership played a pivotal role in shaping the socio-economic structure of the Cochin kingdom and laid the foundation for Thrissur Pooram, a major cultural event in Kerala.

4. WHO’s Global Guidance on Antibiotic Pollution

Introduction:

The World Health Organization (WHO) recently released the first-ever global guidance to tackle antibiotic pollution from manufacturing processes, aiming to address the environmental impact of antibiotic production.

Key Details:

• Framework: The guidance covers wastewater and solid waste management from antibiotic manufacturing, offering a scientific basis for controlling antibiotic pollution.
• Core Elements: The framework includes defining resistance selection targets, risk management processes, and conducting independent audits.
• Environmental Impact: High levels of antibiotics in water bodies near manufacturing sites contribute to the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Significance:

Addressing antibiotic pollution is crucial to curbing the rise of drug-resistant bacteria, ensuring the long-term effectiveness of antibiotics, and protecting global health.

5. Operation Bhediya: Capturing Wild Wolves in Bahraich

Introduction:

The Forest Department of Uttar Pradesh has launched Operation Bhediya in the Bahraich district to capture wild wolves that have been attacking humans in several villages.

Key Details:

• Operation Measures: The operation involves increased monitoring of wolf habitats using thermal drones, camera traps, and identifying pugmarks.
• Human-Wildlife Conflict: Bahraich has been declared a ‘Wildlife Disaster’ affected area, allowing for quicker compensation to affected families.

Significance:

Operation Bhediya aims to mitigate the growing human-wildlife conflict in the region, protect human lives, and ensure better wildlife management practices.

Conclusion:

Each news item emphasizes critical developments in areas such as environmental conservation, medical advancements, historical legacies, global health guidelines, and wildlife management. These issues reflect the evolving challenges and innovations in various sectors, from addressing the global threat of antibiotic pollution to the rich cultural and political history represented by figures like Sakthan Thampuran.

MCQs

1. Teal Carbon Study at Keoladeo National Park

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding ‘Teal Carbon’:

1.     Teal carbon refers to organic carbon stored in tidal saltwater wetlands.

2.     Teal carbon ecosystems play a significant role in carbon sequestration and mitigating climate change.

3.     The first study on teal carbon in India was conducted at the Keoladeo National Park, Rajasthan.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B) 2 and 3 only

2. PresVu: India’s First Eye Drop for Presbyopia

Q2. Consider the following statements regarding the newly developed eye drop PresVu:

1.     PresVu contains 1.25% pilocarpine to contract iris muscles and improve near vision.

2.     It is the world’s first eye drop to address presbyopia.

3.     Regular use of PresVu has no known side effects.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 only
B) 1 and 2 only
C) 1 and 3 only
D) 2 and 3 only

Answer: A) 1 only

3. Sakthan Thampuran: Legacy of a Powerful Ruler

Q3. Which of the following was a significant contribution of Sakthan Thampuran during his rule in the Cochin kingdom?

1.     He transferred the capital of Cochin from Thrippunithura to Thrissur.

2.     He introduced major administrative reforms to modernize the kingdom.

3.     He discouraged trade by limiting foreign merchants' entry into the kingdom.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

4. WHO’s Global Guidance on Antibiotic Pollution

Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the WHO’s global guidance on antibiotic pollution:

1.     The guidance aims to manage antibiotic pollution arising from manufacturing processes.

2.     It provides scientific guidelines for controlling antibiotic levels in water bodies near production sites.

3.     The guidance was designed to address antibiotic pollution specifically in underdeveloped countries.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 2 and 3 only
C) 1 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A) 1 and 2 only

5. Operation Bhediya: Capturing Wild Wolves in Bahraich

Q5. Which of the following is a key objective of Operation Bhediya launched in Uttar Pradesh?

1.     To monitor wild wolves through thermal drones and camera traps.

2.     To relocate wild wolves from human habitats to protected reserves.

3.     To reduce human-wildlife conflict in the Bahraich district.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:

A) 1 and 2 only
B) 1 and 3 only
C) 2 and 3 only
D) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B) 1 and 3 only