GKToday Testbook Current Affairs Adda  - 1 January 2025

SpaDex

The GKToday Testbook Current Affairs Adda for January 1, 2025, covers key updates including SpaDex, norovirus, Sevdalinka, Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana, SSI Mantra, robotic surgery advancements, ghost particles, Vasilopita, furry sea otters, South Korea's Yoon Suk Yeol impeachment, and the Serendipity Arts Festival.

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GKToday Testbook Current Affairs Adda - Questions & Answers

Ques. What is PSLV SpaDEx?
Ans. PSLV SpaDEx (Space Docking Experiment) is an Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) mission to demonstrate autonomous docking technology. It advances India's capabilities for future space exploration, satellite servicing, and assembly in orbit.

Ques. What is the norovirus?

Ans. Norovirus is a highly contagious virus that causes gastroenteritis, leading to diarrhoea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. It is spread through contaminated food, water, or surfaces and requires strict hygiene practices for prevention, especially in crowded settings.

Ques. What is Sevdalinka?

Ans. Sevdalinka, a traditional Bosnian love song known as the "Balkan Blues," blends South Slavic poetry with Ottoman influences. Characterized by emotional lyrics and intricate melodies, it reflects Bosnia's cultural heritage and recently got listed in UNESCO's Cultural Heritage.

Ques. What is Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana?

Ans. Pujari Granthi Samman Yojana of the Delhi Government aims to provide ₹18,000 monthly to Hindu priests and Sikh granthis.

Ques. What is the SSI Mantra?

Ans. The SSI Mantra is India’s first indigenous surgical robot, which was installed at Noble Hospital and Research Centre in Pune. It is useful in general surgery, cardiac and thoracic operations, urology, gynaecology, and other complex procedures. 

Ques. What are ghost particles?

Ans. Ghost particles, or neutrinos, are nearly massless subatomic particles that rarely interact with matter. Produced in nuclear reactions like the Sun's core, they provide insights into astrophysics, particle physics, and the universe's fundamental workings.

Ques. What is Vasilopita?

Ans. Vasilopita is a traditional Greek New Year’s cake honouring Saint Basil (founder of early Christian monasticism). Baked with a hidden coin, it symbolizes blessings and luck for the year ahead, celebrated with family gatherings and festive traditions.

Ques. How are furry sea otters vital to California's coastal ecosystems?

Ans. Furry sea otters are vital to California's coastal ecosystems, maintaining kelp forests by preying on sea urchin populations. Sea urchins damage coastal ecosystems by overgrazing kelp forests, disrupting marine biodiversity and destabilizing important habitats for marine life.

Ques. Who is Yoon Suk Yeol?

Ans. In December 2024, the South Korean National Assembly impeached President Yoon Suk Yeol following his brief declaration of martial law, which led to mass protests. This marked the first time a sitting South Korean president faced impeachment. 

Ques. What is the Serendipity Arts Festival?

Ans. The Serendipity Arts Festival is an annual multidisciplinary event held in Goa, India, celebrating arts, culture, and creativity. It features music, dance, theatre, visual arts, and interactive installations, fostering collaboration and innovation across artistic disciplines.

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