16th &17th February Daily Current Affairs
1. Which organization has launched the campaign “Imagine a world with more women in science”?
Correct Answer: A [United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO)]
Notes:
UNESCO launched the “Imagine a world with more women in science” campaign. The campaign marks the 10th anniversary of International Day of Women and Girls in Science (February 11). It promotes diverse perspectives in science using Every Voice in Science. United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared February 11 as International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2015. Globally, women make up only one-third of scientists and hold just 1 in 10 Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) leadership roles. In India, 43% of STEM enrolments are women, but only 18.6% are scientists, and 25% lead R&D projects.
UNESCO launched the “Imagine a world with more women in science” campaign. The campaign marks the 10th anniversary of International Day of Women and Girls in Science (February 11). It promotes diverse perspectives in science using Every Voice in Science. United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) declared February 11 as International Day of Women and Girls in Science in 2015. Globally, women make up only one-third of scientists and hold just 1 in 10 Science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) leadership roles. In India, 43% of STEM enrolments are women, but only 18.6% are scientists, and 25% lead R&D projects.
2. Thiruparankundram hill , which was seen in news, is located in which state?
Correct Answer: D [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
Madras High Court directed the Tamil Nadu government to maintain communal harmony at Thiruparankundram hill. Thiruparankundram hill is located in Madurai district, Tamil Nadu and has historical and religious significance. It houses the rock-cut Thiruparankundram temple, built in the 8th century by the Pandyas. It is one of six temples of Lord Muruga, the son of warrior goddess Korravai. The hill also has a Muslim shrine of Sikandar Shah, the last Sultan of the Madurai Sultanate. Jain caves are also found here, adding to its religious diversity.
Madras High Court directed the Tamil Nadu government to maintain communal harmony at Thiruparankundram hill. Thiruparankundram hill is located in Madurai district, Tamil Nadu and has historical and religious significance. It houses the rock-cut Thiruparankundram temple, built in the 8th century by the Pandyas. It is one of six temples of Lord Muruga, the son of warrior goddess Korravai. The hill also has a Muslim shrine of Sikandar Shah, the last Sultan of the Madurai Sultanate. Jain caves are also found here, adding to its religious diversity.
3. Which two countries launched the TRUST initiative to boost cooperation in critical minerals in February 2025?
Correct Answer: B [India and United States]
Notes:
India and the U.S. launched the TRUST (Transforming Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology) initiative to boost cooperation in critical minerals like lithium and rare earth elements. Announced during PM Modi’s visit to Washington, it aims to strengthen supply chains for essential materials. The initiative focuses on critical minerals, advanced materials, and pharmaceuticals. It aims to reduce barriers to technology transfer by streamlining regulations. It seeks to address export controls for smoother trade in strategic resources. It also promotes high-tech commerce, enhancing collaboration in advanced sectors.
India and the U.S. launched the TRUST (Transforming Relationship Utilizing Strategic Technology) initiative to boost cooperation in critical minerals like lithium and rare earth elements. Announced during PM Modi’s visit to Washington, it aims to strengthen supply chains for essential materials. The initiative focuses on critical minerals, advanced materials, and pharmaceuticals. It aims to reduce barriers to technology transfer by streamlining regulations. It seeks to address export controls for smoother trade in strategic resources. It also promotes high-tech commerce, enhancing collaboration in advanced sectors.
4. Where was the 8th edition of Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) organized?
Correct Answer: A [Muscat, Oman]
Notes:
India, Singapore, and Oman are hosting the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat, Oman. The Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) is an annual platform for regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean. It brings together leaders, officials, private sector representatives, and experts to discuss key issues. The Indian Ocean was historically a major trade route, influenced by Indian merchants and dynasties like the Pallavas, Cholas, and Andhras. The Indian Ocean handles 70% of global container traffic and 90% of India’s energy trade.
India, Singapore, and Oman are hosting the 8th Indian Ocean Conference in Muscat, Oman. The Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) is an annual platform for regional cooperation in the Indian Ocean. It brings together leaders, officials, private sector representatives, and experts to discuss key issues. The Indian Ocean was historically a major trade route, influenced by Indian merchants and dynasties like the Pallavas, Cholas, and Andhras. The Indian Ocean handles 70% of global container traffic and 90% of India’s energy trade.
5. Laokhowa Burhachapori Wildlife Sanctuary is located in which city?
Correct Answer: C [Assam]
Notes:
After 40 years, the Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary saw the return of one-horned rhinos and is attracting more water birds than Assam’s Deepor Beel Ramsar site. The sanctuary is located in Nagaon District, Assam, covering 70.13 sq.km. It was designated a buffer zone of Kaziranga Tiger Reserve in 2007 and is part of the Laokhowa-Burachapori ecosystem. The sanctuary is surrounded by human-dominated areas on all sides except the north.
After 40 years, the Laokhowa Wildlife Sanctuary saw the return of one-horned rhinos and is attracting more water birds than Assam’s Deepor Beel Ramsar site. The sanctuary is located in Nagaon District, Assam, covering 70.13 sq.km. It was designated a buffer zone of Kaziranga Tiger Reserve in 2007 and is part of the Laokhowa-Burachapori ecosystem. The sanctuary is surrounded by human-dominated areas on all sides except the north.
