20th November 2024

Explanation: Statements 1, 3, and 4 are correct. High-altitude sickness typically occurs
above 2,400 meters (statement 1), the body produces more red blood cells to carry
oxygen at high altitudes (statement 3), and gradual ascent is indeed the most effective
prevention method (statement 4). Statement 2 is incorrect as HAPE involves fluid
accumulation in the lungs, not the brain. High-altitude cerebral edema (HACE) is the
condition where fluid accumulates in the brain.

Explanation - According to the CMIE, the labour force consists of persons who are of age
15 years or older, and belong to either of the following two categories:
• are employed
• are unemployed and are willing to work and are actively looking for a job
There is a crucial commonality between the two categories — they both have people
“demanding” jobs. This demand is what LFPR refers to. While those in category 1
succeed in getting a job, those in category 2 fail to do so. Thus, the LFPR essentially is
the percentage of the working-age (15 years or older) population that is asking for a job;
it represents the “demand” for jobs in an economy. It includes those who are employed
and those who are unemployed.
The Unemployment Rate (UER), which is routinely quoted in the news, is nothing but the
number
of unemployed (category 2) as a proportion of the labour force.

Explanation - The G20 is not a formal international organisation; it is an informal group
with no permanent secretariat or headquarters. The G20 was formed in 1999 in
response to the financial crises of the late 1990s, particularly the Asian financial crisis, to

include major emerging economies in global economic discussions. The G20 decisions
are not legally binding; they are recommendations that depend on voluntary
implementation by member nations.

Explanation: Statements 1, 3, and 4 are correct. The CCI is indeed a statutory body
established under the Competition Act, 2002. It has the power to conduct inquiries into
certain agreements and dominant positions of enterprises, and is mandated to undertake
competition advocacy and create public awareness on competition issues. Statement 2
is incorrect as the members are appointed by the Central Government, not the President
of India.

Explanation - It is essentially a fungi-based liquid solution that can soften hard stubble to
the extent that it can be easily mixed with soil in the field to act as compost. This would
then rule out the need to burn the stubble, and also help in retaining the essential
microbes and nutrients in soil that are otherwise damaged when the residue is burned.