Daily Current Affairs Quiz: 18th May 2024

Answer: C) 17 May

Notes:

World Hypertension Day, observed annually on May 17, aims to raise awareness about hypertension. Initiated by the World Hypertension League (WHL), this day focuses on the prevention, detection, and control of high blood pressure, a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. The theme for 2024 is ‘Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer‘. This day encourages proactive measures to combat hypertension, a condition affecting millions globally.

Theme 2024:  ‘Measure Your Blood Pressure Accurately, Control It, Live Longer.’

Answer: B) Ulaanbaatar

Notes:

The 12th Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting between the Defence Ministries of India and Mongolia took place in Ulaanbaatar on May 16-17, 2024. This meeting marked a significant step in the deepening of bilateral defence cooperation. Both sides expressed satisfaction at the ongoing defence cooperation and identified means to further enhance cooperation. The meeting was co-chaired by Joint Secretary, MoD, India Shri Amitabh Prasad and State Secretary of MoD, Mongolia Brigadier General Gankhuyag Davagdorj.

Answer: A) Kenya

Notes:

In response to the catastrophic floods affecting Kenya, the Government of India dispatched humanitarian assistance, including relief and medical supplies. The aid was worth USD 1 million. The floods had a devastating impact, causing the death of approximately 267 individuals, injuring 188, and displacing over 280,000 people. This assistance underscores the strong bilateral relations between India and Kenya and India’s commitment to providing timely aid in times of crisis.

Answer: B) 17 May

Notes:

National Endangered Species Day is observed annually on the third Friday of May. In 2024, it falls on May 17. Established in 2006 by the Endangered Species Coalition and David Robinson, this day aims to raise awareness about the consequences of human activities and the importance of saving endangered species. The theme for 2024 is ‘Celebrate Saving Species‘, calling for action to reduce harmful human activities that threaten species.

Theme 2024: Celebrate Saving Species.

Answer: C) NASA

Notes: NASA plans to develop the first lunar railway system, known as FLOAT (Flexible Levitation on a Track). This system is designed to support future lunar activities of astronauts visiting the moon. The FLOAT system employs unpowered magnetic robots that levitate over a 3-layer flexible film track. This railway system will be integrated into NASA’s Artemis program, which aims to return astronauts to the moon. The FLOAT system will operate autonomously in the dusty, inhospitable lunar environment with minimal site preparation.

Answer: D) Bhutan

Notes:

World Aquatics, in collaboration with the Bhutan Aquatics Federation, unveiled a new pool at a record altitude of 2,400 meters (8,200 feet) in Bhutan. This pool, part of the Pools for All Program development initiative, is the first-ever competition swimming pool in Bhutan. The pool is situated in Thimphu, Bhutan, and marks a significant milestone in promoting aquatic sports globally. This facility will provide opportunities for Bhutanese swimmers to train without having to travel abroad.

Answer: C) Nandini Diary

Notes:

Nandini, a dairy brand based in Karnataka, India, is the official sponsor of the Scotland Men’s team for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024. The partnership was announced by Cricket Scotland and the Karnataka Milk Federation. The Nandini logo will be present on the leading arm of the new Scotland men’s playing shirts at the tournament. This sponsorship marks a significant step for Nandini in reaching a global audience of cricket lovers.

Answer: B) Kapil Sibal

Notes:

Kapil Sibal, a senior advocate and former minister in the Congress-led UPA government, has been elected as the president of the Supreme Court Bar Association (SCBA) for the fourth time. He secured a significant victory with 1,066 votes. This marks his return to lead the lawyers’ body after his previous stints in 2001 and the mid to late 1990s. His election underscores his deep commitment to the judiciary and the institution.

Answer: C) 1.5 billion years old

Notes:

Scientists recently discovered Giant Viruses in the hot springs of Yellowstone National Park. These viruses, dating back an astonishing 1.5 billion years, provide valuable insights into the origins of life on Earth. Despite their name, they do not pose any risk to humans. Instead, these ancient microbes help scientists understand the conditions and processes that influenced the early development of life.

Answer: B) Qatar

Notes:

The FIBA Basketball World Cup 2027 will be hosted by Doha, the capital city of Qatar. This prestigious tournament, awarded to the Qatar Basketball Federation (QBF), will take place from August 27 to September 12, 2027. This marks the first time FIBA’s flagship event will be hosted in the Middle East. All games will be played in Doha, providing a unique experience as all venues are within 30 minutes of each other.

Answer: B) Silver

Notes:

At the Doha Diamond League 2024, India’s ace javelin thrower, Neeraj Chopra, secured the silver medal. He finished second with his best throw of 88.36 meters. Despite starting with a foul, Neeraj made a strong comeback, finishing just two centimetres short of the gold medallist, Jakub Vadlejch. This performance underscores Neeraj’s consistent excellence in the field of javelin throw.

Answer: A) Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.

Notes:

Nanyang Technological University, Singapore retained its top position in the Young University Rankings 2024. This ranking, released by Times Higher Education, lists the world’s best universities that are 50 years old or younger. The universities are judged across all their core missions – teaching, research, knowledge transfer, and international outlook. This achievement underscores Nanyang Technological University’s commitment to excellence in higher education.

Answer: B) PUMA

Notes:

Puma India has signed a multi-year deal as the official kit sponsor for the Athletics Federation of India (AFI). Under this agreement, Puma will exclusively supply performance kits, speed suits, and travel gear to all athletes under AFI representing India in various athletic events. This partnership does not include Olympics, Asian Games, and Commonwealth Games. This strategic move marks a significant milestone for India’s athletes and reinforces Puma’s commitment to amplifying sports culture in India.

Answer: A) PhonePe

Notes:

PhonePe, a major fintech company based in India, has collaborated with LankaPay to enable Unified Payments Interface (UPI) transactions for its users in Sri Lanka. This collaboration allows PhonePe users visiting Sri Lanka to make payments using UPI across LankaPayQR merchants nationwide. The transactions are facilitated by the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and LankaPay National Payment Network. This initiative marks a significant step in promoting fintech connectivity between India and Sri Lanka.

Answer: C) New Delhi

Notes:

The India Skill Competition 2024 was inaugurated by Atul Kumar Tiwari at Yashobhoomi, Dwarka, New Delhi. This competition, organized by the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE), aimed to raise the standard of skills in India. Over 900 students from more than 30 states and Union Territories participated, showcasing their talents across 61 skills. The winners will have the opportunity to represent India at the WorldSkills Competition in Lyon, France in September 2024.