The correct answer is (C) Pink patches above their eyes

African penguins have pink patches above their eyes, which help regulate body temperature. These patches expand in hot conditions to cool their blood.

The correct answer is (C) Namibia and South Africa

African penguins are endemic to Namibia and South Africa. Their population has significantly declined, with fewer than 20,000 birds left in the wild due to threats like predation and food scarcity.

The correct answer is (D) Sea Birds and Seals Protection Act, 1973

African penguins have been protected under South Africa’s Sea Birds and Seals Protection Act since 1973 and more recently under the Marine Threatened or Protected Species Regulations, 2017, banning harm or capture of penguins and their eggs.

The correct answer is (B) Daniel Barenboim and Ali Abu Awwad

The 2023 Indira Gandhi Peace Prize was awarded to Palestinian peace activist Ali Abu Awwad and Argentine-born pianist Daniel Barenboim for their efforts in fostering peace and harmony, particularly in the Middle East.

The correct answer is (D) To honor contributions to peace, disarmament, and development

The prize, instituted in 1986, recognizes individuals and institutions for exemplary work in promoting peace, disarmament, and sustainable development globally.

The correct answer is (C) 300 km

ATACMS is a short-range ballistic missile developed by Lockheed Martin, designed to target enemy positions up to 300 km away.

The correct answer is (B) Ukraine

Ukraine recently employed ATACMS missiles against Russian positions, as confirmed by Russia’s Ministry of Defense.

The correct answer is (D) It flies higher and returns at high speeds

Unlike traditional artillery rockets, ATACMS fly at higher altitudes and speeds due to gravity, allowing them to hit distant targets with precision.

The correct answer is (C) Critically Endangered

The African penguin is the first penguin species to be listed as critically endangered by the IUCN due to its rapidly declining population, now fewer than 20,000 in the wild.

The correct answer is (A) Pink patches of skin above their eyes

The pink patches above the eyes of African penguins help them regulate body temperature by adjusting blood flow to the skin surface based on the surrounding temperature

The correct answer is (B) Rising ocean temperatures

Rising ocean temperatures, predators like Cape fur seals, and a lack of prey such as sardines and anchovies are significant threats to African penguins.

The correct answer is (D) South Africa

South Africa protects African penguins under its Sea Birds and Seals Protection Act (since 1973) and Marine Threatened or Protected Species Regulations (since 2017).

The correct answer is (B) Rs. 25 lakh monetary award and a citation

Instituted in 1986, the prize includes a monetary award of Rs. 25 lakh and a citation honoring exemplary work in peace, disarmament, and development.

The correct answer is (D) Indira Gandhi

The award is named after Indira Gandhi, India’s first and only woman Prime Minister, to honor her legacy in promoting global peace and development.

The correct answer is (C) Up to 300 km

The ATACMS, developed by Lockheed Martin, is a short-range ballistic missile with a range of up to 300 km, designed for targeting high-value positions.

The correct answer is (B) Higher and farther flight capability

Unlike artillery rockets, ATACMS missiles fly much higher and farther, returning to the ground at high speeds, making them effective for strategic strikes.

The correct answer is (D) Lockheed Martin

Lockheed Martin developed the ATACMS in the 1980s as a guided ballistic missile to enhance the U.S. military’s targeting precision during the Cold War.

The correct answer is (C) Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations

SANYUKT VIMOCHAN 2024 is a multilateral annual joint exercise focusing on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations. It demonstrates India’s disaster response capabilities through coordinated efforts of the Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, and other agencies.

The correct answer is (D) Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration

The exercise featured a Multi-Agency Capability Demonstration at Porbandar’s Chowpatty Beach, simulating rescue operations, casualty evacuation, and disaster rehabilitation. It showcased India’s disaster management readiness involving multiple stakeholders, emphasizing international collaboration.

The correct answer is (B) Futures obligate both parties to execute the trade, while options provide the buyer the right but not the obligation

Futures contracts are binding agreements requiring both parties to complete the transaction on the specified date. In contrast, options give the buyer the choice to execute the trade, providing flexibility.

The correct answer is (D) A massive aerial attack involving missiles, aircraft, or drones

The revised doctrine explicitly states that a large-scale aerial attack using missiles, aircraft, or drones could trigger a nuclear response. It broadens the range of conditions under which nuclear weapons might be used.

The correct answer is (C) Broader triggers for nuclear use, including conventional attacks threatening sovereignty

The revised doctrine expands the conditions for nuclear weapon use, including responses to non-nuclear attacks threatening Russia’s sovereignty or integrity. It also considers attacks by a non-nuclear power supported by a nuclear ally as grounds for nuclear retaliation.

The correct answer is (D) African Penguin

The African penguin (Spheniscus demersus), also called the “jackass” penguin due to its donkey-like braying, was recently listed as critically endangered by the IUCN. Found in Namibia and South Africa, their population has been declining due to predators, lack of prey, and rising ocean temperatures. Protection laws in South Africa aim to conserve this species, which currently has fewer than 20,000 birds in the wild.

The correct answer is (B) To recognize efforts in peace, disarmament, and development

Instituted in 1986 by the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust, the prize honors exemplary contributions to peace, disarmament, and development. It includes a cash reward of Rs. 25 lakh and a citation. The 2023 award recognized Daniel Barenboim and Ali Abu Awwad for their efforts in fostering peace and harmony in the Middle East.

The correct answer is (A) Lockheed Martin

The ATACMS was developed by Lockheed Martin in the 1980s as a short-range ballistic missile with a range of up to 300 km. Designed to strike high-value targets, it has two versions—one with a cluster warhead and another with a single explosive charge. Ukraine recently used ATACMS during its conflict with Russia.