Trump to Impose 30% Tariffs on EU and Mexico from August 1
Former U.S. President Donald Trump has announced that starting August 1, 2025, a 30% tariff will be placed on goods imported from the European Union and Mexico. He warned the EU that any retaliation would lead to even higher tariffs, and accused Mexico of not doing enough to stop drug trafficking into North America. His announcement came as a surprise to European leaders, especially since trade talks had been going on for months between the European Commission and the U.S. Trade Representative to reach a fair deal. EU trade ministers are set to meet on Monday to decide on possible €21 billion in retaliatory tariffs that had been on hold.
Important MCQs:
1. From which date will Donald Trump’s 30% tariffs on EU and Mexico start?
a) July 15, 2025
b) August 1, 2025
c) September 1, 2025
d) October 1, 2025
Answer: b) August 1, 2025
2. Why did Trump criticize Mexico in his announcement?
a) For banning U.S. products
b) For causing economic losses
c) For not stopping drug trafficking
d) For cutting trade ties
Answer: c) For not stopping drug trafficking
3. How much in retaliatory tariffs is the EU considering?
a) €10 billion
b) €15 billion
c) €21 billion
d) €30 billion
Answer: c) €21 billion
Burmese Pythons Use Special Cells to Handle Bone Minerals
Scientists studying Burmese pythons discovered a new type of intestinal cell that helps the snakes safely digest animals whole, including their bones. These cells have folded pockets that fill with mineral particles made of calcium, phosphorus, and iron, which only appear after the snake eats bones. The cells turn the extra minerals into tiny crystals that are safely removed through droppings, preventing harmful calcium overload.
Important MCQs:
1. What do Burmese pythons have in their intestines to manage bone digestion?
a) Extra stomachs
b) Special liver cells
c) A new type of intestinal cell
d) Extra enzymes
Answer: c) A new type of intestinal cell
2. What minerals are found in the particles inside these cells?
a) Calcium, magnesium, zinc
b) Phosphorus, potassium, sodium
c) Calcium, phosphorus, iron
d) Iron, copper, calcium
Answer: c) Calcium, phosphorus, iron
3. How does the python remove the extra minerals safely?
a) Through urine
b) By sweating
c) By vomiting
d) Through droppings
Answer: d) Through droppings
Arunachal Pradesh to Be Branded as 'Orchid Capital of India'
To promote Arunachal Pradesh’s rich natural and cultural heritage, Chief Minister Pema Khandu chaired a review meeting with the planning department. One of the key ideas discussed was branding Arunachal as the ‘Orchid Capital of India’, as it is home to over 600 species of orchids, the highest in the country. The state also plans to promote kiwi as its unique selling point by boosting its production and market access. The meeting focused on developing integrated tourism circuits to attract more visitors by showcasing the region's scenic beauty and culture. Khandu also reviewed steps to revive Mon Shugu, the traditional handmade paper craft of the Monpa community, stressing the need to preserve indigenous arts and knowledge for future generations.
Important MCQs:
1. Why is Arunachal Pradesh being called the 'Orchid Capital of India'?
a) It sells the most orchids
b) It has the largest orchid market
c) It is home to over 600 orchid species
d) Orchids were first found there
Answer: c) It is home to over 600 orchid species
2. Which fruit is being promoted as Arunachal Pradesh’s unique selling proposition (USP)?
a) Apple
b) Kiwi
c) Orange
d) Mango
Answer: b) Kiwi
3. What is Mon Shugu?
a) A traditional dance
b) A type of local food
c) A handmade paper craft
d) A musical instrument
Answer: c) A handmade paper craft
