Answer: D

Explanation:

Recently, it was announced that the 27th National Federation Cup athletics championships will be held at Bhubaneswar's Kalinga Stadium from May 12 to 15 and it will be organized by the Government of Odisha with the Odisha Athletics Association, under the supervision of the Athletics Federation of India. The Athletics Federation of India (AFI) serves as the apex body responsible for managing athletics in India and was established in 1946. It is affiliated with prominent international bodies such as World Athletics, the Asian Athletics Association (AAA) and the Indian Olympic Association. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

Comprising 32 affiliated state units and institutional units, AFI oversees the organization of National Championships and the selection and training of Indian teams for international competitions like the Olympics, Asian Games, Commonwealth Games and World Championships. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

In addition to its regulatory functions, AFI actively promotes athletics through the organization of international and national championships, aiming to popularize the sport and foster its growth. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

It supports grassroots development through initiatives such as coaching camps, coach training programs and developmental projects across India. It conducts programs like the National Inter-District Juniors Athletics Meet (NID-JAM) and IAAF-AFI Kids Athletics to identify and nurture young talent across the country. Hence, statement 4 is correct.

Answer: B

Explanation:

Recently, the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) reported that India grew by 6.7% in 2023 and is projected to expand by 6.5% in 2024, maintaining its status as the world's fastest-growing major economy. The United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) is a permanent intergovernmental body within the United Nations Secretariat. It was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1964 to promote the interests of developing countries in world trade. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

It aims to assist developing countries in equitable integration into the global economy, maximize their development opportunities, investments and trade, foster a global partnership for development, enhance coherence in global economic policymaking and ensure that trade benefits all in terms of development gains. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

The reports published by UNCTAD, including the Trade and Development Report, World Investment Report, The Least Developed Countries Report, Information and Economy Report, Technology and Innovation Report and Commodities and Development Report. Its headquarter is in Geneva, Switzerland. Hence, statement 3 is correct.

Answer: C

Explanation:

In the ongoing negotiations within the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA) to combat plastic pollution, the term "primary plastic polymers" has been mentioned. Primary plastic polymers are solid materials containing one or more high-molecular-mass polymers, forming the essential ingredient shaped during manufacturing or fabrication using heat and/or pressure. They represent the foundational building blocks of most plastic items commonly used in daily life. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

Negotiations surrounding primary plastic polymers are pivotal as they target the root causes of plastic pollution. These negotiations aim to address specific types of plastics that significantly contribute to environmental degradation and marine litter. Policymakers and stakeholders focus on identifying and regulating primary polymers to implement targeted measures in plastic production and consumption. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Answer: C

Explanation:

Researchers recently discovered that a small frog species in the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest emits ultrasonic sounds as a defense mechanism. The Leaf Litter Frog is scientifically known as Haddadus binotatus and it is endemic to the Brazilian Atlantic rainforest. This species of frog is exceptionally small, measuring smaller than an inch in size, distinguishing it as one of the smallest frog species globally. It employs an intriguing defense mechanism by emitting ultrasonic screams when faced with predators. Hence, statement 1 is correct.

Notably, the ultrasonic screams emitted by the Leaf Litter Frog are beyond the audible range for humans, ranging from 20 kHZ to 44 kHZ. Brazilian scientists from the Institute of Biology, São Paulo and Project Dacnis Preserve conducted studies on this frog species, recording its ultrasonic screams in the rainforest environment. Hence, statement 2 is correct.

Answer: A

Explanation:

Recently, a 37 year old man infected with the B virus from a wild monkey in Hong Kong is in critical condition, with most cases involving laboratory workers handling captive animals or monkey tissues. B virus, also known as herpes virus B, was first identified in 1932 when Dr. William Brebner, a young doctor, was bitten by a macaque monkey while researching poliovirus. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.

This virus primarily infects humans through bites, scratches or contact with bodily fluids of infected monkeys, particularly macaques. Cases of B virus infection have been documented worldwide, with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recording 50 cases since its discovery. B virus infection can lead to severe neurological illness and respiratory failure, with a mortality rate of 70% if left untreated. Hence, statement 2 is correct.