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1. In which country did 29-year-old Zoraia Ter Beek get permission for euthanasia on the grounds of mental suffering?
a. Germany
b. Netherlands
c. India
d. New Zealand
Answer: b. Netherlands
– A 29-year-old woman, Zoraya Ter Beek, struggling with stress in the Netherlands, has been granted permission for euthanasia in May 2024.
– She applied for assisted euthanasia in 2020.
– She tried for three and a half years to convince the Dutch administration.
– Zoraya has been struggling with autism and unbearable mental distress for many years.
– A person suffering from autism harms themselves and has recurring thoughts of suicide.
– Zoraya felt that there was no longer a solution to her problem. As a result, she requested euthanasia.
– However, Zoraya is physically completely fit. Thus, questions are being raised about the approval of her euthanasia.
– After this permission, the debate on euthanasia in Europe has intensified.
Problems Since Childhood
– Zoraya told the newspaper The Guardian that her troubles began in childhood.
– She suffered from chronic depression, anxiety, trauma, personality disorder, and autism.
– A few years later, when Zoraya found a partner, she thought everything would be fine, but it didn’t turn out that way.
Treatment Lasted for 10 Years
– Zoraya underwent more than 30 sessions of electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) to combat her illnesses.
– In this therapy, electric shocks are given to the patient. However, there was no improvement in her health.
– After trying various treatments for 10 years, she finally applied for euthanasia out of despair.
Euthanasia Process
– Euthanasia is a lengthy process in which the patient meets with several doctors who determine whether the request for euthanasia is justified or not.
– At each stage, the doctors ask if you are ready to end your life.
– Each time, she had to affirm her decision.
Right to Euthanasia in the Netherlands Since 2002
– The Netherlands was the first country to legalize euthanasia in 2002.
– In the Netherlands, once euthanasia is approved, doctors usually perform the final procedure at the individual’s home.
– During this process, a special type of injection is administered to the patient, and they pass away within a few minutes.
– Notably, even after death, the case is investigated.
– If any negligence by the doctors is found, they could face up to 12 years in prison.
Former PM Granted Euthanasia
– In 2024, former Dutch Prime Minister Dries van Agt and his wife Eugenie (both aged 93) legally ended their lives through euthanasia.
– With the help of doctors, both took their last breaths and remained companions, holding each other’s hands until the end.
– Renowned film director Jean-Luc Godard chose euthanasia for his death. He passed away on September 13, 2022. He is considered the godfather of revolutionary changes in French cinema.
In Which Countries is Euthanasia Permitted
– Euthanasia is legal in Austria, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Spain, Switzerland, Ecuador, some states in the USA, and some parts of Australia.
– The constitutional courts of Colombia, Germany, and Italy have legalized assisted suicide, but their governments have yet to legalize the practice.
Question
Who is Zoraya Ter Beek and why is she currently in the news?
– Zoraya Ter Beek is a 29-year-old Dutch woman who applied for permission for euthanasia. The relevant authorities have accepted her request for assisted death on the grounds of unbearable mental suffering. In the coming weeks, she may end her life.
Why did Zoraya take this step?
– Zoraya Ter Beek applied for assisted euthanasia in 2020 after struggling with depression and suicidal thoughts due to childhood difficulties.
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2. The helicopter of which country’s President Ebrahim Raisi, who was 45 years old, crashed?
a. Azerbaijan
b. Palestine
c. Iran
d. Iraq
Answer: c. Iran
– A 45-year-old helicopter carrying Iran’s President Ebrahim Raisi crashed on May 19, 2024.
– Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian was also on board. According to Iran’s state media IRNA, the helicopter is still missing.
– The incident occurred in the mountainous area of Varzeghan, very close to the border with Azerbaijan.
– Iran’s military air fleet largely dates back to before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Most of the fleet is American, provided to Iran before the Islamic Revolution.
– Due to American sanctions, Iran is unable to obtain parts for its air fleet.
There were 3 helicopters in Raisi’s convoy.
– There were three helicopters in President Raisi’s convoy, two of which had ministers and officials on board.
– In fact, on the morning of May 19, Raisi went to inaugurate a dam with Azerbaijan’s President Ilham Aliyev.
– This third dam, built on the Aras River, was constructed jointly by both countries.
– The other two helicopters are safe, but President Ibrahim Raisi’s helicopter crashed.
– Experts say there doesn’t seem to be any conspiracy in the accident involving the Iranian president’s chopper. The weather is so bad that it’s difficult even for rescue teams. The real question is why the president was allowed to use a helicopter in such conditions.
Attempting Rescue Amid Bad Weather
– Due to adverse weather conditions, the rescue team is unable to reach the crash site.
– In this area of Iran, rescue operations via helicopter are nearly impossible due to fog and cold.
Who is Ibrahim Raisi?
– In 2021, hardline leader Ibrahim Raisi became the President of Iran.
– Before winning the presidential election, Ibrahim Raisi was already a prominent figure for various reasons.
– He was known as a hardliner who previously led the country’s judiciary.
He is considered close to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
– He could have been Khamenei’s successor.
– Ibrahim Raisi is the first Iranian president to be sanctioned by the United States before taking office.
– In fact, Raisi was a government prosecutor in 1988 when he declared 5,000 politicians as traitors.
– All of them were sentenced to death by hanging. After this incident, the US imposed a ban on Raisi.
Iran Launched Drone Attack on Israel in April 2024
– Just last month, under the leadership of President Ibrahim Raisi and Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran launched a drone and missile attack on Israel.
– Israel also retaliated after this attack.
1755 Air Crashes in 45 Years
– Iran uses various types of helicopters, most of which are American-made but are over 45 years old, dating back to before the Islamic Revolution of 1979.
– During the Islamic Revolution, the Shah of Iran, who was very close to America, had to flee, leading to international sanctions that prevented Iran from obtaining new helicopters and even spare parts.
– As a result, military and top leaders in Iran are forced to use old and worn-out helicopters.
– Since the Islamic Revolution of 1979, there have been more than 1755 airplane and helicopter crashes in Iran.
– These incidents have resulted in the deaths of over 2000 Iranians, with 22 crashes occurring since 2000.
India’s Response
– Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi has issued a message via social media expressing concern about the helicopter crash involving Iranian President Raisi.
– He said, “I am worried about the news of the helicopter crash of Iranian President Raisi. I wish him a speedy recovery. We stand with Iran in this difficult time.”
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3. Famous banker Narayanan Vaghul passed away on 18 May 2024. He had been the chairman of which bank?
a. HDFC
b. ICICI
c. IDFC
d. SBI
Answer: b. ICICI
– Narayanan Vaghul was 88 years old.
– He started his career at SBI in 1955 but left his job shortly thereafter.
– At the age of 39, in 1981, he became the Chairman and Managing Director of the Bank of India.
– In 1985, he was appointed as the Chairman and Managing Director of the Industrial Credit and Investment Corporation of India (ICICI), which is now known as ICICI Bank.
– Vaghul’s efforts led to the introduction of the concept of credit rating in India, and in 1987, CRISIL was established. Later, the American credit rating agency S&P acquired it.
– In 2010, he was awarded the Padma Bhushan in the category of trade and industry.
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4. When is World Bee Day celebrated?
a. 17 May
b. 18 May
c. 19 May
d. 20 May
Answer: d. 20 May
Theme
– Bee engaged with Youth
– This day is celebrated in memory of the birth of Anton Janša (1734), who is considered a pioneer in beekeeping.
Urban Honey Production in India
– Beekeeping is a traditional Indian practice that has become increasingly popular due to market demand.
– Besides honey, bees also produce royal jelly and beeswax, providing additional benefits to farmers.
– India is a major exporter of honey.
– In 2021-2022, India produced approximately 133,200 metric tons of honey.
– More than half of this production is exported to other countries.
– India’s major honey markets include the United States, Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Bangladesh, and Canada.
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5. Name the first woman Director General of Police (DGP) of Meghalaya?
a. Vimla Devi
b. Nonoram Voso
c. Meenu Verma
d. Idashisha Nongrang
Answer: d. Idashisha Nongrang
– She is an officer of the Indian Police Service (IPS) of the 1992 batch.
– Nongrang’s appointment holds significant cultural importance as she comes from one of the three matrilineal tribal communities in Meghalaya, the Khasi community.
– Prior to this, she served as the Deputy General of Police (DGP) in 2021.
– Nongrang will serve as the Chief of Police of Meghalaya until May 19, 2026.
Meghalaya:
– Capital: Shillong
– Chief Minister: Conrad Sangma
– Governor: Fagu Chauhan
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6. Which South American country hosted the FIFA Women’s World Cup (2027) for the first time?
a. Cuba
b. Canada
c. Brazil
d. Mexico
Answer: c. Brazil
– In the annual FIFA Congress on May 17, 2024, Brazil received the most votes based on voting.
– After winning, Brazil was declared the host country for the 2027 Women’s World Cup.
– Brazil achieved victory by defeating Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, becoming the first South American country to host the tournament.
– In FIFA, votes are cast to decide which country will host the World Cup.
– Full-member countries like Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany are given more importance in their proposals in FIFA.
China was the host for the first time
– The Women’s Football World Cup began in China in 1991.
– In that competition, the United States team became the champions while Norway’s team remained the runner-up.
– The Women’s Football World Cup has been held 9 times so far, with the United States team winning the championship four times.
– Germany’s team has won the Women’s World Cup title twice.
Brazil:
– Capital: Brasília
– President: Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva
– Currency: Brazilian Real
– Population: 200 million
– Neighboring countries: French Guiana, Suriname, Guyana, Venezuela, Colombia, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, Argentina, Uruguay
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7. Which apex body issued advisory asking Indians to avoid consuming protein supplements (protein powder) on regular basis?
a. CSIR
b. ICMR
c. FSSAI
d. ICAR
Answer: b. ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research)
– The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs).
– According to an Indian Express report, while adopting a cautious approach towards the use of protein supplements, Indians have been urged to avoid their consumption.
– As per The Hindu newspaper, ICMR has mentioned in the Dietary Guidelines for Indians (DGIs) that protein powder is enriched with Branch-Chain Amino Acids (BCAAs).
– Additionally, based on recent findings, ICMR has warned that BCAAs may increase the risk of some non-communicable diseases (NCDs).
Note: NCDs are diseases that develop over a long period and progress slowly.
Why not consume on regular basis
– ICMR has indicated that protein powder may contain additional sugar and artificial sweeteners (additives).
– Consumption of such protein powders may lead to an increased intake of sugar in our bodies.
– Excessive sugar and calorie intake can lead to various problems such as weight gain, diabetes, heart disease, dental issues, etc.
– Therefore, regular consumption of such supplements is not advised.
Misinformation in Popular Supplements
– According to The Indian Express, a study conducted in April 2024 revealed that 70% of the 36 popular protein supplements tested in India contained inaccurate protein information.
What are protein supplements?
– Protein supplements are used for strengthening muscles, bones, and various functions of the body.
– Protein supplements are specifically made for those who are unable to fulfill the protein requirement in their diet.
– For example, those who go to the gym and are trying to build muscles or those whose diet may lack protein due to being vegetarian or vegan.
– These supplements are available in various forms in the market, such as protein powder, protein bars, protein shakes, etc.
How is protein powder made?
– Protein powder is usually made from eggs, dairy milk, or whey – which is a by-product of cheese.
– It can also be made from sources like soybeans, peas, and rice.
Can athletes get enough protein from food alone?
– According to the ICMR guidelines, athletes can obtain sufficient protein solely through food intake, without the need for supplements.
– Athletes often consume protein in the form of protein powder in large quantities.
– According to the ICMR, the protein requirements are not as high as commonly perceived.
– Consuming large amounts of protein over a long period is associated with potential risks such as mineral loss in bones and kidney damage.
How much protein does a person need?
– Generally, the protein requirement for an individual is determined based on health, development, and age.
– For adults, the recommended dietary allowance is approximately 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.
– For example, if a person weighs 75 kg, they would require about 60 grams of protein per day.
– Children aged 2 to 8 years require approximately 13-19 grams of protein per day.
– Children aged 9 to 13 years require approximately 19 to 34 grams of protein per day.
– Adolescents aged 14 to 18 years require approximately 46-52 grams of protein per day.
What foods should be given priority for protein?
– Meat, fish, chicken, mutton, seafood, eggs, chicken eggs.
– Pulses: Red lentils, black chickpeas, chickpeas, pigeon peas, mung beans.
Dairy products: Milk, yogurt, cheese, buttermilk.
– Dry fruits: Dried figs, almonds, cashews, walnuts, chia seeds, sesame seeds, peanuts, etc.
– By including these in your diet, you can meet your protein needs.
Note: A person can incorporate any of these food items into their diet.
– ICMR: Indian Council of Medical Research
– Director General: Dr. Rajiv Bahl
– Founded: 1911 (Under the Government of India)
– Headquarters: New Delhi
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8. When is World AIDS Vaccine Day Observed
a. 17 May
b. 18 May
c. 19 May
d. 20 May
Answer: b. 18 May
– There is no vaccine to prevent or cure HIV, but there are vaccines that can help people living with HIV.
– The first World AIDS Vaccine Day was celebrated in 1998, marking the anniversary of the first international AIDS vaccine trial conducted in 1997.
– This day is dedicated to raising awareness about the immediate need for AIDS vaccines and recognizing the efforts of individuals, including doctors, scientists, and community members, to develop them.
– AIDS, whose full name is Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome, is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).
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9. When is World Metrology Day celebrated?
a. 17 May
b. 18 May
c. 19 May
d. 20 May
Answer: d. 20 May
Theme 2024
– We measure today for a sustainable tomorrow.
What is metrology?
– Metrology is the branch of physics that deals with pure measurement.
Why is the day celebrated:
– The Meter Convention was signed in Paris on May 20, 1875.
– It was an international treaty that worked towards standardizing units of measurement worldwide.
– UNESCO supports this day.
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10. Litterateur Malti Joshi, famous as “Malwa ki Meera”, passed away on 15 May 2024. In which year did she receive the Padma Shri Award?
a. 2016
b. 2017
c. 2018
d. 2019
Answer: c. 2018
– In 2018, the then President Ram Nath Kovind conferred Padma Shri upon Malti Joshi.
– She has authored over 60 books in Hindi and Marathi languages.
– Some of her most popular works include “Madhyantar,” “Patakshrep,” “Parajay,” “Ek Ghar Sapno Ka,” “Wo Tera Ghar, Ye Mera Ghar,” and her novel “Aurat Ek Raat Hai.”
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