2017-18 - currentaffairsonly.com Bhujal Yojana 17 ... and Uttar Pradesh are the top three ranking States in terms of annual incremental performance. Jharkhand, ... E-Pashudhan Haat

Compilation

2017-18

June 2017 - March 2018

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Contents

MARCH 2018

National Financial Reporting Authority 10

Western Naval Command Concludes Exercise Paschim Leher (XPL-18) 10

NHAI to deploy all women toll collecting staff on international Women’s Day 10

Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018 10

Inauguration 1st Mega Food Park in Maharashtra 11

Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 11

13 Intangible Cultural Heritage elements from India inscribed on UNESCO 11

Reforms in the Indian Army to Enhance Combat Capability 12

NFRA to have power to impose penalty on audit firms 13

Women Entrepreneurship Platform 13

Anti-Collision Device 13

Nari Shakti Puraskar 13

SUVIDHA’-100% Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkin 14

Udyam Sakhi Portal 14

‘I - Metros’ -an association of all Indian Metro Rail companies 14

India has won the “Best Exhibitor Award ” at ITB – Berlin. 14

ISA-ADB, NDB, GCF, AfDB and AIIB joint declarations of Financial partnership 14

UNNATI Project 15

NCRB celebrates its 33rd Inception Day & releases “Citizen Services” Mobile APP 15

India, France join hands for Indian Ocean security 15

Ex Samvedna 15

WHO releases new guidelines on tobacco product regulation 16

National Conference on Counterfeiting & Role of Enforcement Agencie 16

World Consumer Rights Day 16

Urea subsidy scheme 16

Blue Economy 17

Biggest Solar Power Plant in Uttar Pradesh 17

Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) 17

UDYAM SAKHI 17

Atal Bhujal Yojana 17

Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra 18

Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana 18

KUSUM Scheme – harnessing solar power for rural India 18

NITI Aayog Released SATH-Education Roadmaps 2018-2020 18

Festival of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (FINE) 19

First India-Japan Workshop on Disaster Risk Reduction 19

Informal World Trade Organisation Ministerial Meeting 19

International Competition Network 2018 20

POSHAN Abhiyaan 20

Conservation-cum-Development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups 20

Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) 20

Ayushman Bharat – National Health Protection Mission 21

Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016 21

Revision of Energy Norms under New Urea Policy 21

Opening of Missions in Africa to implement commitments of India-Africa Forum Summit (IAFS-III) 21

International Day of Forests 22

Strategy on Resource Efficiency 22

Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017 22

Toll Operate and Transfer (TOT) model 22

Ethanol as Primary Fuel 23

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Bio-medical Waste Management Rules Amended to Protect Human Health 23

The first-ever National Conference on Drug Law Enforcement 23

TRIFED-“E- Tribes” 23

ISA a juridical personality now 23

‘National Conference on Down Syndrome’ 24

The Regional 3R Forum in Asia and the Pacific 24

Re-structuring of National Skill Development Fund (NSDF) and National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) 24

A new Integrated Scheme for School Education 25

National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill 25

FEBUARY 2018

Coach Factory in Marathwada, Maharashtra 26

Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme (TEQIP) 26

Prevention of Money-laundering Act, 2002 through Finance Act, 2018 26

Major initiatives in health sector 26

The first ever International Kala Mela 27

Laghu Udyog Bharati 27

Fifth South Asia Region Public Procurement Conference 27

India Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC) 27

“Development of Solar Cities” scheme 27

Mahamastakabhisheka 28

Rationalization of Autonomous Bodies under Department of Health & Family Welfare 28

Village Resource Centres 28

New Instrument adopted by International Labour Organization (ILO) 28

Ratification of the Minamata Convention on Mercury 29

Change in the basis of classifying Micro, Small and Medium enterprises 29

559 SwadharGreh presently functional in the country with 17231 beneficiaries 29

National Women Entrepreneurship Council 29

“Healthy States, Progressive India” Report 30

ASH TRACK Mobile App 30

Integrated Automatic Aviation Meteorological Systems (IAAMS) 30

India Health Fund to boost-research on TB, malaria 30

National Deworming initiative 31

India State of Forest Report 2017 (ISFR) 31

World Radio Day 31

‘India Pharma & India Medical Device 2018’: Affordable and Quality Healthcare 31

Central Geological Programming Board 32

New Bill to ban Unregulated Deposit Schemes and Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2018 32

International Mother Language Day 32

Operation Greens 32

NITI Forum for Northeast 33

Tribunal to settle Mahanadi water dispute 33

Chardham Mahamarg Pariyojana 33

Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav-2018 33

Heavy water board 33

20th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers 34

National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts 34

GOBAR-Dhan Yojana 34

Government committed to doubling farmers income by 2022 35

Maldives rejects India’s Milan naval exercise invite: 35

Project Swajal 35

National e-Governance Awards 35

National Science Day 2018 35

Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) 36

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Aviation Multi Skill Development Centre (MSDC) 36

JANUARY2018

Health Secretary launches the Allied Health Professionals Database Portal 36

E-Pashudhan Haat 36

World Class Research Facilities 37

‘NARI’ for women empowerment – e-Samvad portal for NGOs and Civil Societies 37

Reducing Maternal Mortality ratio (MMR) 37

Jal Marg Vikas Project on the Haldia-Varanasi stretch of National Waterway-1 38

Monsoon Mission 38

Tata Memorial Centre launches first digital Online Oncology Tutorial 38

Landslide Risk Reduction and Management 38

Council for Trade Development and Promotion 39

Central Water Commission 39

ASEAN India Pravasi Bharatiya 39

4th International Dharma-Dhamma Conference 39

The Central Government notifies the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2017 40

ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit 40

Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Election Process 41

Aanchal Thakur wins India’s first international medal in skiing 41

Cabinet approves amendments in FDI policy 42

Matunga Railway Limca Book of Records 2018 42

Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act 42

Smart Freight Operation Optimisation & Real Time Information (SFOORTI) Application 42

PSLV successfully launches 31 satellites in a single flight 42

Saksham-2018 43

First Agri-commodity Options Contracts in Guar Seed 43

Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav-2018 43

CIPAM-DIPP launches IP competition for college & university students 43

Indo-Israeli initiative 43

Raksha Mantri takes to Skies in an IAF Su-30 MKI 43

Cyber & Information Security (CIS) Division 44

Simplified ‘Make-II’: Major Steps Towards ‘Make in India’ in Defence Production 44

Successful Fifth Flight Test of Agni-5 Ballistic Missile 44

Functioning of Internal Security Division and Narcotics Control Bureau 44

International Solar Alliance Forum at World Future Energy Summit, Abu Dhabi 44

National CSR Data Portal & Corporate Data Portal 45

Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) 45

International Dam Safety Conference 45

New plan for rejuvenation of major river water systems 45

BHARAT PARV 45

Maitreyi Yatra 45

The Management Information System (MIS) portal 46

Government Process Re-engineering (GPR) 46

Padma Awardees 2018 46

DECEMBER 2017

National Nutrition Mission 46

National Nutrition Strategy 47

‘India Awarded Certificate of Commendation for Its Effort to Combat Illegal Wildlife Trade” 47

National Strategic Plan (2017-24) and Mission “SAMPARK”: On World AIDS Day 48

BIMSTEC Member States discuss draft text of Coastal Shipping Agreement 48

Resource Efficiency- the key to a sustainable future 48

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India re-elected as Member of International Maritime Council for two years (2018-19) 48

22nd AHWP conference 49

3rd United Nations Environment assembly in Nairobi 49

Indian Navy Op Sahayam For Cyclone Ockhi 49

‘Arogya 2017’ 49

Border Protection Grid (BPG) 50

Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill 2017 50

E-Courts Project 50

BODHI PARVA: BIMSTEC Festival of Buddhist Heritage 50

NIC-CERT 51

Govt launches initiative to implement labour room guidelines 51

ASEAN-India Connectivity Summit 51

27th National Energy Conservation Day to be celebrated on 14th December, 2017 51

Nation Two Crucial Bridges in Eastern Arunachal Pradesh 52

SANKALP Project 52

Exercise EKUVERIN-2017 52

Sakhi One Stop Centres 52

Tuitial Hydroelectric Power Project 53

International Training Centre for Operational Oceanography 53

North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) 53

Sendai Framework 53

India is the second largest producer of horticultural crops and fruits in the World 54

Increase in threshold limit for DPP 54

Global Hunger Index 54

India ranked 60th most innovative country 54

India Innovation Index 54

Use of Space Technology in Agriculture 55

Reforms in Agriculture Sector 55

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) 55

The National Health Policy, 2017 (NHP, 2017) 55

Indian Forest Act 56

Solar Mission (Aditya-L1) 56

SHAKTI POLICY 57

Project ‘Mausam’ 57

Exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr 57

Strengthening of Maritime Security 57

Rs. 52,000 Crore Capital infused in PSBs under Indradhanush Plan 58

Prevention of Torture Bill 58

Digital Employment Exchange 58

Rail and Transportation University at Vadodara 58

Swarn Project in Railways 59

Development of Ramayana and Krishna Circuits 59

ISRO and NASA Collaboration 59

“Skills Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement Operation (Strive) Project.” 60

Sustainable Rooftop Implementation for Solar Transfiguration of India (SRISTI) 60

Scheme for Capacity Building in Textiles Sector (SCBTS) 60

Darpan Launched 61

Blue Flag Beach Certificate 61

Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY) 61

Ganga Gram Project 61

States rank 50000 Gram Panchayats under Mission Antyodaya 61

Defence of Andaman & Nicobar Islands Exercise 62

Insurance cover to Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs) 62

electronic-Human Resource Management System (e-HRMS) 62

Pencil Portal to Eliminate Child Labour 62

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Methanol economy 62

NHAI Creates National Highways Investment Promotion Cell (NHIPC) 63

Majuli Island in Assam 63

Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana 63

Regional Project to Tackle Stubble Burning 64

NOVEMBER 2017

EESL launched ‘Creating and Sustaining Markets for Energy Efficiency’ project 64

The National Council for Teacher Education Act, 1993 64

World Food India 2017 65

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) 65

7th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable in Bangkok 66

Indo – Kazakhstan Joint Exercise “PRABAL DOSTYK 2017” 66

48th World Standards Day 66

DRDO Successfully Test Fires Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) System 66

Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana 67

Coastal Berth Scheme 67

International Conference – ‘FIPSPHYSIOCON 2017’ 67

India Pitches for Strong Pre-2020 Climate Action by Developed Countries 67

SHe-Box Online Complaint Management System 67

NDMA conducts brainstorming session on use of UAVs in Disaster Management 68

CZT Imager of AstroSat measures first phase resolved X-ray polarisation of Crab pulsar 68

2nd meeting of Island Development Agency (IDA) 68

India’s Second Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC) 68

Centre approves creation of National Testing Agency 69

2nd Meeting of EAC-PM focuses on Job Creation, Social Sector and Infrastructure 69

Second National Judicial Pay Commission for Subordinate Judiciary in the country 69

India Youth Development Index and Report 2017 69

Project Saksham a “comprehensive training programme” of Indian Railways 70

AADI MAHOTSAV Festival 70

First ever Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response Team (Apcert) Conference 70

Hunar Haat 70

India’s Positive Actions at COP 23 70

Asia Pacific Cert (APCERT) Discuss Building Trust in Digital Economy 71

The National Anti-profiteering Authority under GST 71

The sub-schemes under Umbrella Scheme “Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)” for the period till November, 2018 71

Global Conference on Cyber Space 2017 72

‘Saubhagya’ Web-Portal 72

South Asia Regional Training and Technical Assistance Center (SARTTAC)- IMF 72

International Committee of Military Medicine (ICMM) 73

Moscow declaration 73

Logistics Sector granted Infrastructure Status 73

North East Development Summit 73

Manipur Sangai Festival 2017 73

42nd International Committee on Military Medicine World Congress 74

India’s Membership for European Bank for Reconstruction & Development 74

Approves expansion of umbrella scheme “Mission For Protection And Empowerment For Women” and introducing a new scheme ‘ Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra’ 74

Brahmos Flight test from IAF’s Su-30MKI fighter aircraft 74

Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY) 75

Defence of Andaman & Nicobar Islands Exercise (DANX-17) 75

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Meet on Centre-State relations 75

International Geological Congress 75

National Law Day 75

INSPIRE 2017 76

International Multilateral Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (IMMSAREX) 76

Global Entrepreneurship Summit 2017 76

Health Ministry and ICMR launch India Hypertension Management Initiative (IHMI) 76

Skill India partners with Airbnb to Upskill Hospitality Entrepreneurs 77

15th finance commission 77

OCTOBER 2017

Indian Navy Foils Piracy Attempt in Gulf of Aden. 77

Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan Scheme 77

India Energy Forum by CERAWEEK 78

Intensified Mission Indradhanush 78

Annual Dilli Seminar – ‘India and South East Asia Maritime Trade, Expedition and Civilisation Linkages’ 78

Value Engineering Programme 78

First BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise 79

Namami Gange Programme 79

India Water Week 79

A Joint Declaration of Intent was signed between Ministry of Railways and Germany for feasibility study 80

Paryatan Parv 80

Cabinet approves MoC between India and Japan 80

MoU between India and Belarus 80

SANKALP & STRIVE Schemes to boost Skill India Mission 80

India’s first Sewage Treatment Plant under Hybrid Annuity Mode to come up in Haridwar and Varanasi 81

Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) 81

Launch of Mobile Health App `MedWatch' By the Indian Air Force 81

Sampoorna Bima Gram (SBG) Yojana 81

Mitra Shakti 2017 82

Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) Act 2016 brought into force 82

New Guiness Record at IISF Chennai 2017 82

Exercise INDRA - 2017: Indo-Russia Joint Exercise 82

INS kilta 82

Ministry WCD launches campaign on ‘women for women’: #IamThatWoman 83

ACI-ASQ Survey 83

CIPAM-DIPP Launches Logo and Tagline Contest for Geographical Indications of India 83

Determination of Ceiling Prices of Drugs 83

Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme 84

PM inaugurates Phase 1 of RO RO Ferry Service between Ghogha and Dahej 84

India’s first Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra for skilling in Smart Cities inaugurated 84

Olive Research and Development in India 84

Navika Sagar Parikrama – Tarini Enters Fremantle 85

Ministries of Power & Textiles join hands under new initiative SAATHI 85

INS Sukanya at Indonesia for Coordinated Patrol of IMBL 85

Minister for Commerce and Industry reviews Government’s initiatives on IPR 85

Integrity Index 86

International Conference on Consumer Protection for East, South and South-East Asian. 86

India and US Hold 11th Trade Policy Forum Meeting in Washington D.C. 86

List of MoUs/Agreements signed during the visit of Prime Minister of Italy to India 87

MSME Payment Portal – MSME Samadhaan launched 87

Ease of Doing Business Rankings 87

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Ministry of HUA ropes in private online service aggregator to promote jobs for urban poor 88

SEPTEMBER 2017

Northeast calling festival in Delhi, B2B summit prime focus 88

NISARGRUNA Biogas plant – Based on Biodegradable waste resource 88

Successful Flight Test of 3rd Generation Anti Tank Guided Missile – NAG 89

Eastern Fleet Ships on Overseas Deployment to East and South-East Asia 89

MoU between India and Morocco on cooperation in the field of health 89

MoU between India & Armenia on Cooperation in the field of Disaster Management 90

The Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017 90

Implementation of the scheme “Dairy Processing & Infrastructure Development Fund” 90

Conference on “Sustainable Landscapes & Forest Ecosystems: Theory to Practice”And “Wood is Good” Campaign 91

‘SWACHHTA’ Ranking – 2017 of Higher Educational Institutions 91

Multi-Agency Exercise ‘Pralay Sahayam’ 91

Bharat ke Kaushalzaade 92

Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana “Saubhagya” 92

Minimum Support Price for Minor Forest Produce 92

“Electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (e-NWR) System” 93

India Joins Race in 5G Ecosystem, Constitutes High Level Forum on 5G India 2020 93

Sujalam Sufalam Yojana 93

CARA launches monthly “Jan Sampark” Program to facilitate adoption 94

Cabinet approves umbrella scheme of Modernisation of Police Forces 94

World Tourism Day( 27 September) 94

Signing and ratification of the Bilateral Investment Treaty between India and Belarus on investments 95

BRICS Interbank Cooperation 95

India registers significant decline in Infant Mortality Rate (IMR) 95

India Playing a Leadership Role in Wildlife Management by Involving Local Communities 96

Successful Development Trials of Astra Missile 96

India Signs 76 Million US Dollar Loan Deal with Japan International Cooperation Limited 96

30th Anniversary of Montreal protocol and 23rd World Ozone Day Celebrated 97

INDO-USA Joint Exercise Yudh Abhyas – 2017 97

The New Intelligence Set-up of SSB 97

1st AICTE-ECI Chhatra Vishwakarma Awards -2017 98

‘Anubhav’ 98

Attaining New Heights in Biotechnology 98

“Hunar Haat” 99

New PPP Policy to promote private investments in affordable housing 99

NITI Aayog’s SATH Program launched in Assam 100

AUGUST 2017

Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) 100

ZED Scheme for MSMEs 100

Development of Cold Chains 101

BRICS Agriculture Research Platform 101

MAA-Mother’s Absolute Affection 101

Lateral entry in civil services 101

Government Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill in news 101

ISRO and CSIR-NPL sign MoU for time and frequency traceability services 102

“BHARAT 22” 102

“Samvad"- Global Initiative on Conflict Avoidance and Environment Consciousness 102

Measles-Rubella (MR) Campaign 102

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Roadmap for Next Three Years for Evergreen Revolution 103

Environment In News 103

Environment Minister launches ‘Gaj Yatra’ to mark World Elephant Day 2017 104

Economic Survey 2016-17 Volume-2 : State of the Economy – An Analytical Overview and Outlook for Policy 104

Push for law to ensure transparency rules 105

A single non-lapsable corpus fund for Secondary and Higher education 106

India signs Global Environment Facility (GEF) Grant Agreement 106

National Consultation on Data Generation for Gender Indicators for Sustainable Development Goals, 2017 106

Delegation of Powers to Border Roads Organisation 107

India’s Exclusive Rights to Explore Polymetallic Nodules 107

The Digital Police Portal under CCTNS project 107

NITI Aayog to launch “Mentor India” Campaign 108

SAMPADA Scheme renamed as “Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana” 108

A Commission to examine the Sub-Categorization within OBCs 108

Public Sector Banks to amalgamate through an Alternative Mechanism (AM) 109

National Sports Museum to be established in New Delhi 109

NITI Aayog’s 3-Year Agenda 109

NITI Aayog launches Ease of Doing Business Report: An Enterprise Survey of Indian States 110

‘Trade-distorting farm subsidies must go’ 110

BUSINESS & CLIMATE SUMMIT 2017 111

FarmerZone at the Smart Agriculture Conclave 111

JULY 2017

India-Israel Joint Statement during the visit of Prime Minister to Israel 111

The progress of two flagship schemes – National Agricultural Markets (E-Nams) and Soil Health Card 112

“JIGYASA” – Student-Scientist connect programme 113

India declares itself free from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1 and H5N8) 113

First Maize Based Mega Food Park in Kapurthala, Punjab 113

Scheme for IPR Awareness – Creative India; Innovative India 114

Online education portal 114

Golden Peacock Award for the Year 2017 for Eco-Innovation 114

International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), South Asia Regional Center (ISARC) 114

National Livestock Mission (NLM) 115

European Union & India establish an Investment Facilitation Mechanism 115

E-Patenting 116

Rise in Average Temperatures 116

Mobile App for Road Maintenance “Aarambh” 116

Steps to enhance the income of Farmers 117

The Admiralty (Jurisdiction and Settlement of Maritime Claims) Bill, 2017 Passed Unanimously by Rajya Sabha 117

First Two NOPVs Shachi and Shruti Launched by RDEL at Pipavav, Gujarat 117

Jal Manthan-IV 117

Swadhar Greh Scheme 118

NPCI gets RBI nod to operate Bharat Bill Payment System 118

Sagar Vani: An Integrated Information Dissemination System launched 118

Boosting population: Jiyo Parsi phase II campaign

launched 118

JUNE 2017

18th Annual India Russia Summit, at St. Petersburg 119

First Developmental Flight of India’s GSLV Mk III Successfully launches GSAT-19 Satellite 119

India’s first Rural LED Street Lighting Project in Andhra Pradesh 119

Inclusive India Initiative 120

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Vatsalya – Maatri Amrit Kosh 120

‘DigiYatra’- A New Digital Experience for Air Travellers 120

Augmenting Cancer treatment facilities in the North East 120

22ND APEDA Annual Award 120

India to be Co-Partner Country in ANUGA 2017 121

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) (a inherited disorder) 121

Interest Subvention to banks on Short-Term crop loan to farmers 121

Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill 2017 121

National Mission on Cultural Mapping of India 121

BIO International Convention 122

India ratifies United Nations TIR Convention 122

India’s biggest municipal bonds programme launched in Maharashtra 122

EEPC India opens Technology Centre in Bengaluru 122

‘MERIT’ - A web portal 123

City Liveability Index 123

11th Statistics Day celebrated 123

Launch of Web Application for Legal Services to Prisoners 123

New training programme ‘COMMIT’ for State Government officials 124

Innovate in India (i3) 124

Practice MCQ for UPSC 2018 124

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MARCH 2018 National Financial Reporting Authority

The Union Cabinet approved the proposal for establishment of National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) and

creation of one post of Chairperson, three posts of full-time Members and one post of Secretary for NFRA.

National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) is a body proposed in Companies Act 2013 for the

establishment and enforcement of accounting and auditing standards and oversight of the work of auditors.

The decision is expected to result in improved foreign/domestic investments, enhancement of economic growth,

supporting the globalisation of business by meeting international practices, and assist in further development of

audit profession.

The government is quite clear that the need for such a body is all the more important after several financial

accounting scams, the most recent of which was the Punjab National Bank scam.

Western Naval Command Concludes Exercise Paschim Leher (XPL-18)

The Western Naval Command of the Indian Navy concluded a large scale operational exercise in the Arabian Sea.

The three-week long exercise termed Exercise ‘Paschim Leher’ (XPL), tested the operational readiness of the

Western Naval Command and the execution of it's operational plans.

Over 40 naval assets including the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, frontline ships of the Western Fleet and

Eastern Fleet (including the newly inducted Kolkata class), submarines, potent missile vessels of the 22nd Killer

Squadron, Patrol vessels and craft of the Local Flotilla and Indian Coast Guard participated in the exercise.

The exercise also saw participation of Indian Air Force, with a number of aircraft, and Indian Coast Guard units.

The scale of the exercise has been enhanced this year, and the exercise itself has been renamed as Exercise

Paschim Leher.

NHAI to deploy all women toll collecting staff on international Women’s Day

The National Highways Authority of India has decided to deploy all women toll collecting staff in day shift on at

least one toll plaza close to the city area, in every state and UT of the country on 8th March 2018, International

Women’s Day.

To improve the condition of toll plazas and create a competitive environment, NHAI is also doing a ranking of toll

plazas based on various parameters directly affecting the highway users such as ETC adoptability, condition of

ETC infrastructure, time taken in passing through the toll plaza using FASTag lane, deployment of Road Marshals,

setting up point of sale of FASTag, FASTag Notice Board, behaviour of toll plazas staff, availability of toll plazas

Manager, informative Sign Boards, general cleanliness, condition of flooring and feedback from highway users,

availability of neat and clean Ladies/Gents/Divyang toilets, greenery and maintenance on NH stretch etc.

Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018

The Union Cabinet chaired approved the Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018

for introduction in the Parliament.

The NIA will receive financial aid under Nirbhaya fund for safety of women in order to set up a cell for investigating

human trafficking.

The Bill broadly has the following features Addresses the issue of trafficking from the point of view of prevention, rescue and rehabilitation.

Aggravated forms of trafficking, which includes trafficking for the purpose of forced labour, begging, trafficking

by administering chemical substance or hormones on a person for the purpose of early sexual maturity,

trafficking of a woman or child for the purpose of marriage or under the pretext of marriage or after marriage

etc.

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Rehabilitation Fund created for the first time. To be used for the physical, psychological and social well-

being of the victim including education, skill development, health care/psychological support, legal aid, safe

accommodation, etc.

Designated courts in each district for the speedy trial of the cases.

National Investigation Agency (NIA) will perform the tasks of Anti-Trafficking Bureau at the national level

present under the MHA.

Punishment ranges from rigorous minimum 10 years to life and fine not less than Rs. 1 lakh.

The National Anti-Trafficking Bureau will perform the functions of international coordination with authorities in

foreign countries and international organizations; international assistance in investigation; facilitate inter-State

and trans-border transfer of evidence and materials, witnesses and others for expediting prosecution; facilitate

inter-state and international video conferencing in judicial proceedings etc.

Trafficking in human beings is the third largest organized crime violating basic human rights. There is.no specific law

so far to deal with this crime. Accordingly, the Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill,

2018 has been prepared. The Bill addresses one of the most pervasive yet invisible crimes affecting the most

vulnerable persons especially women and children.

Inauguration 1st Mega Food Park in Maharashtra

The first Mega Food Park in the state of Maharashtra, M/s Satara Mega Food Park Pvt. Ltd. at Village Degaon,

District Satara was inaugurated on 1stMarch, 2018 by Minister of Food Processing Industries.

This is the 12thMega Food Park operationalized in the country so far and the 10th operationalized during the

tenure of present government.

Mega Food Parks create modern infrastructure facilities for food processing along the value chain from farm to

market with strong forward and backward linkages through a cluster based approach.

Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018

The Union Cabinet approved the proposal of the Ministry of Finance to introduce the Fugitive Economic Offenders

Bill, 2018 in Parliament.

The Bill would help in laying down measures to deter economic offenders from evading the process of Indian

law by remaining outside the jurisdiction of Indian courts. The cases where the total value involved in

such offences is Rs.100 crore or more, will come under the purview of this Bill.

The Bill is expected to re-establish the rule of law with respect to the fugitive economic offenders as they

would be forced to return to India to face trial for scheduled offences. This would also help the banks and

other financial institutions to achieve higher recovery from financial defaults committed by such fugitive economic

offenders, improving the financial health of such institutions.

Salient features of the Bill Application before the Special Court for a declaration that an individual is a fugitive

economic offender; Attachment of the property of a fugitive economic offender; Issue of a notice by the Special

Court to the individual alleged to be a fugitive economic offender; Confiscation of the property of an individual

declared as a fugitive economic offender resulting from the proceeds of crime; Confiscation of other property

belonging to such offender in India and abroad, including benami property; Disentitlement of the fugitive

economic offender from defending any civil claim; and An Administrator will be appointed to manage and dispose

of the confiscated property under the Act.

13 Intangible Cultural Heritage elements from India inscribed on UNESCO

A total of 13 Intangible cultural heritage (ICH) elements from India have been inscribed till date on the UNESCO’s

Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

The Ministry of Culture has appointed the Sangeet Natak Akademi, an autonomous organisation under the Ministry of

Culture, as nodal office for matters relating to the intangible cultural heritage including for preparation of the nomination

dossiers for the Representative List of UNESCO.

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Major organisations involved in preservation of propagation of ICH are SahityaAkademi, Lalit Kala Akademi,

SangeetNatakAkademi, Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts, National School of Drama, Centre for Cultural

Resources & Training, Zonal Cultural Centres (seven in number), Indira Gandhi Rashtriya Manav Sangrahalaya,

Anthropological Survey of India

Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity

S.No. ICH Element Year of

Inscription

1. Tradition of Vedic chanting 2008

2. Ramlila, the traditional performance of the Ramayana 2008

3. Kutiyattam, Sanskrit theatre 2008

4. Ramman, religious festival and ritual theatre of the Garhwal

Himalayas, India

2009

5. Mudiyettu, ritual theatre and dance drama of Kerala 2010

6. Kalbelia folk songs and dances of Rajasthan 2010

7. Chhau dance 2010

8. Buddhist chanting of Ladakh: recitation of sacred Buddhist texts in the

trans-Himalayan Ladakh region, Jammu and Kashmir, India

2012

9. Sankirtana, ritual singing, drumming and dancing of Manipur 2013

10. Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil making among the

Thatheras of Jandiala Guru, Punjab, India

2014

11. Yoga 2016

12. Nawrouz, Novruz, Nowrouz, Nowrouz, Nawrouz, Nauryz, Nooruz,

Nowruz, Navruz, Nevruz, Nowruz, Navruz

2016

13. KumbhMela 2017

Reforms in the Indian Army to Enhance Combat Capability

Optimization of Signals Establishments to include Radio Monitoring Companies, Corps Air Support Signal

Regiments, Air Formation Signal Regiments, Composite Signal Regiments and merger of Corps Operating and

Engineering Signal Regiments.

Restructuring of repair echelons in the Army to include Base Workshops, Advance Base Workshops and Static /

Station Workshops in the field Army.

Redeployment of Ordnance echelons to include Vehicle Depots, Ordnance Depots and Central Ordnance Depots

apart from streamlining inventory control mechanisms.

Better utilization of Supply and Transportation echelons and Animal Transport Units.

Closure of Military Farms and Army Postal Establishments in peace locations.

Enhancement in standards for recruitment of clerical staff and drivers in the Army.

Improving the efficiency of the National Cadet Corps.

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NFRA to have power to impose penalty on audit firms

The Chartered Accountants Act, 1949 (Act) provides for imposition of penalties on members of the Institute of

Charted Accountants of India (ICAI).

The ICAI had submitted a proposal to the Government for amendment to the Act to, inter alia, provide for

registration of audit firms, procedure for taking necessary disciplinary action against audit firms (on the lines of

such procedure for individual members) and imposition of penalties on audit firms.

Section 132 of the Companies Act, 2013 provides for constitution of the National Financial Reporting Authority

(NFRA) and sub- section (4) thereof confers powers on NFRA, for imposition of penalties on audit firms.

Women Entrepreneurship Platform

NITI Aayog launched the Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP), on the occasion of International Women’s

Day.

The initiative is aimed at building an ecosystem for women across India to realize their entrepreneurial

aspirations, scale-up innovative initiatives and chalk-out sustainable, long-term strategies for their businesses.

These aspirations are manifest in the three pillars on which WEP is built:

Ichha Shakti (motivating aspiring entrepreneurs to start their enterprise),

Gyaan Shakti (providing knowledge & ecosystem support to women entrepreneurs to help them foster

entrepreneurship)

Karma Shakti (providing hands-on support to entrepreneurs in setting-up and scaling up businesses).

Anti-Collision Device

Indian Railways have now planned to provide Automatic Train Protection (ATP) conforming to ETCS level-2

standards on the entire Indian Railway Broad Gauge (BG) network. This will provide technological aid to Loco

Pilots for avoiding Signal Passing at Danger (SPAD).

Automatic Train Protection (ATP) Systems are existing on Indian Railways: -

Automatic Train Protection (ATP) System based on proven European Train Control System (ETCS-L1)

Technology has been implemented on 342 RKMs.

An ATP called Auxiliary Warning System (AWS) is presently functional on 364 RKMs in the Mumbai suburban

section of Central Railway (240 RKMs) and Western Railway (124 RKMs).

An ATP system indigenously developed called Train Collision Avoidance System (TCAS) is under trail on 250

RKMs of South Central Railway as a pilot project.

Nari Shakti Puraskar

Every Year, Ministry of Women & Child Development celebrates International Women Day on 8th March. The

significance of the International Women’s Day lies in our re-affirmation of improve the condition of women, especially

those at the margins of our society and empower them to take rightful place in society.

The award is named after eminent women in Indian history, and is given in the following categories:

Devi Ahilya Bai Holkar Award: named after Ahilyabai Holkar, 18th-century ruler of Malwa kingdom

Kannagi Award: named after Kannagi, a legendary Tamil woman

Mata Jijabai Award: named after Mata Jijabai, mother of Shivaji, who founded the Maratha Empire in the

17th century

Rani GaidinliuZeliang Award: named after Rani Gaidinliu, a 20th-century Naga spiritual and political leader

Rani Lakshmi Bai Award: named after Rani Lakshmi Bai, the Queen of Jhansi

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Rani Rudramma Devi Award (for both men and women): named after Rudrama Devi a 13th-century ruler of Deccan Plateau.

SUVIDHA’-100% Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkin

Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers and Parliamentary Affairs the launch of ‘Suvidha’, the 100% Oxo-

biodegradable Sanitary Napkin, under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana (PMBJP).

The affordable sanitary napkin will be available for Rs. 2.50 per padat over 3200 JanaushadhiKendrasacross India

and would ensure ‘Swachhta, Swasthya and Suvidha’for the underprivileged Women of India.

SUVIDHA napkins would be physically available at all JanaushadhiKendras in the country by May 28, 2018 –

World Menstrual Hygiene Day

‘Oxo-biodegradable’ is a special additive is added in the SUVIDHA napkin which makes it biodegradable when it

reacts with oxygen after it is used and discarded.

Udyam Sakhi Portal

The Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises(MSME) launched a portal for women entrepreneurs of India.

The portal is a network for nurturing entrepreneurship and creating business models for low cost products and

services in order to empower women and make them self-reliant and self-sufficient.

The portal provides assistance through its platform for entrepreneurship learning tools, incubation facility,training

programs for fund raising, providing mentors, one-on-one investor meet, provide market survey facility and

technical assistance.

‘I - Metros’ -an association of all Indian Metro Rail companies

“I-METROS”, an association of all Indian Metro Rail companies was launched at the Conference on “Indian Metros:

Collaborating for Excellence” held at Metro Bhawan.

“I-Metros” is proposed to be a platform to provide a forum for exchange of ideas, pooling of knowledge and sharing

of experience, best practices, innovations etc. among the Indian Metro rail companies to nurture excellence in

performance.

This society will be registered under Society Registration Act-1860.

This association will also undertake and promote techno-economic studies and research. It will safeguard the

interest and rights of metro rail companies and will be resource tank of information for decision making.

India has won the “Best Exhibitor Award ” at ITB – Berlin.

India has won the "Best Exhibitor Award" at ITB – Berlin on its last day. ‘ITB- Berlin World Tourist Meet’ was

convened at Berlin, Germany from 7th March to 10th March, 2018.

As the Leading Travel Trade Show, ITB Berlin is the foremost business platform for global touristic offers. The ITB

Berlin takes place annually in March at the Messe Berlin. The fair always has an official partner country, in 2018

represented by the German state of Mecklenburg-Vorpommern.

‘ITB- Berlin World Tourist Meet’ 2018 was convened at Berlin, Germany.

ISA-ADB, NDB, GCF, AfDB and AIIB joint declarations of Financial partnership

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the African Development Bank (AfDb), the Asian Development Bank

(ADB), the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), the Green climate fund (GCF), and the New Development

Bank (NDB) signed Joint financial partnership Declarations to deepen their cooperation in support of Renewable

Energy.

The previous three partnerships were signed by ISA with the World Bank, the European Investment Bank and the

European Bank for Reconstruction and Development.

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ISA is working for deployment of over 1000 GW of solar energy and mobilising more than US$ 1000 billion into

solar energy by the year 2030.

UNNATI Project

The aims and objectives of Project UNNATI of the Ministry of Shipping are as follows:

1. Benchmark operational and financial performance of the 12 major ports with selected Indian private ports and

best-in-class international ports for identifying improvement areas.

2. Undertake capability maturity assessment for key processes and functional capabilities (e.g., IT, HR,

Environment, and Health) and identify gaps and areas for further strengthening.

3. Detailed deep-dive diagnosis and root cause analysis for the identified opportunity areas in each of the 12

major ports to understand underlying reasons for performance bottlenecks.

4. Develop practical and actionable solutions on the basis of root cause findings, and develop a comprehensive

improvement roadmap for each of the 12 major ports.

Under Project UNNATI 116 initiatives have been identified for various major ports. Out of the 116 initiatives, 86 have

been implemented so far.

NCRB celebrates its 33rd Inception Day & releases “Citizen Services” Mobile

APP

National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) celebrated its 33rd Inception Day, on March 11, 2018 (Sunday) and

released “Citizen Services” Mobile APP.

A Mobile App called “Citizen Services” developed in-house by NCRB. This single App is a bouquet of various

essential police related services to the citizen. The App can be used by citizen for various services such as

Complaint Registration & Status Check, View FIR Detail, SOS – Stay Safe, Locate Police Stations, Vahan-

Samanvay, Emergency Contact List, Police Stations Telephone Directory etc.

India, France join hands for Indian Ocean security

India and France joined hands in ensuring freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region. Both sides also

announced a new phase of cooperation in space security focussed on the maritime domain and a fresh logistics

agreement that will allow their defence forces to closely cooperate on mutually agreed operations.

India and France joined hands in ensuring freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region along with a new phase

of cooperation in space security focussed on the maritime domain and a fresh logistics agreement.

This move allows their defence forces to closely cooperate on mutually agreed operations.

India and France share common concerns on freedom of navigation in the region and will tackle challenges to

over-flight and threat of weapons of mass destruction. The agreement has a vast scope stretching from countering

maritime terrorism and piracy to building maritime domain awareness.

This is the second major maritime agreement India has signed in the last six months following the Quadrilateral

agreement with Australia, Japan and the U.S. in October 2017.

Ex Samvedna

A Multilateral Air Force exercise, ‘Ex Samvedna’, is being spearheaded by Indian Air Force and conducted by

Southern Air Command (SAC) from 12-17 Mar 18. ‘Samvedna’ means ‘Empathy’ and will ensure better

understanding and sharing of response procedures between a number of friendly neighbouring nations.

It is the first composite Human assistance and disaster relief (HADR) Air exercise in the South Asian region and

would be focused on practicing Air Force centric HADR solutions in a Multi-national cooperative Disaster

Management environment.

Air Forces of Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, UAE and Myanmar have already committed resources and personnel for the

exercise. Few other Air Forces from the region are also expected to join in.

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This exercise is expected to lead to more coordinated and efficient HADR Air operations in the entire South Asian

region when the need arises.

WHO releases new guidelines on tobacco product regulation

The World Health Organization (WHO) has launched new guidelines on the role that tobacco product regulations

can play in reducing tobacco demand, saving lives and raising revenues for health services to treat tobacco-related

diseases

The new guide, titled ‘Tobacco product regulation: Building laboratory testing capacity’ was launched at the 2018

World Conference on Tobacco or Health recently. The launch of these important publications will further aid the

implementation of Articles 9 and 10 of the WHO FCTC.

The new guidelines provide practical, stepwise approaches to implementing tobacco testing Such guidance is

relevant to a wide range of countries in various settings, including those with inadequate resources to establish a

testing facility

It provides regulators and policymakers with comprehensible information on how to test tobacco products, what

products to test, and how to use testing data in a meaningful way to support regulation.

National Conference on Counterfeiting & Role of Enforcement Agencie

The National Conference on Counterfeiting and Role of Enforcement Agencies was held in New Delhi. It was

organised by Cell for IPR Promotion and and Management (CIPAM) in collaboration with European Union (EU).

The conference aimed to provide common platform to national and international experts to have dialogue and

exchange best practices for benefit of enforcement agencies, attorneys and industry representatives and provide fresh

ideas for further strengthening the IPR protection ecosystem.

World Consumer Rights Day

The consumer movement marks 15th March with World Consumer Rights Day every year, as a means of

raising global awareness about consumer rights and needs. Celebrating the day is a chance to demand that

the rights of all consumers are respected and protected, and to protest against market abuses and social

injustices which undermine those rights.

Theme “Making Digital Marketplaces Fairer”

World Consumer Rights Day is an annual international event that signifies celebration and solidarity in the

international consumer movement, demanding that, consumer rights are to be respected and protected.

Urea subsidy scheme

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved to continue Urea Subsidy Scheme from 2017 up to 2020

and implementation of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for disbursement of fertilizer subsidy.

The continuation of the urea subsidy scheme will ensure that adequate quantity of urea is made available to the

farmers at statutory controlled price. Implementation of DBT in Fertilizer Sector will reduce diversion and plug the

leakages.

Department of Fertilizers is in process to roll out DBT in fertilizer sector nationwide. DBT would entail 100 %

payment to fertilizer companies on sale of fertilizers to farmers at subsidized rates. Therefore, continuation of Urea

Subsidy Scheme will facilitate the smooth implementation of DBT scheme in Fertilizer Sector.

Urea Subsidy is a part of Central Sector Scheme of Department of Fertilizers with effect from 1stApril, 2017 and

is wholly financed by the Government of India through Budgetary Support.

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Blue Economy

Government is implementing a Central Plan Scheme on “Blue Revolution: Integrated Development and Management

of Fisheries” with a vision to achieve economic prosperity of the country and the fishermen through utilization of full

potential of water resources for development of fisheries in a sustainable manner.

To promote smart, sustainable and inclusive growth and employment opportunities within the Indian Ocean region

maritime economic activities.

The Blue Economy is determined to initiate appropriate programs for sustainable harnessing of ocean resources,

research and develop relevant sectors of oceanography, assess stock marine resources, introduce marine aquaculture

deep sea/long line fishing and biotechnology and develop human resources.

Biggest Solar Power Plant in Uttar Pradesh

Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and French President Shri Emmanuel Macron inaugurated Uttar Pradesh’s

biggest solar power plant of 75 MW (101DC) capacity in Mirzapur on March 12.

The power plant has been set up by the French firm ENGIE through a transparent bidding process under the Solar

Park Scheme of the New and Renewable Energy Ministry.

The electricity generated by the project will be supplied by ENGIE at the rate of Rs.4.43 per unit for a period of 25

years.

A 50 MW solar power plant has already come up in Allahabad. Another 40 MW solar power is ready for

commissioning in Jalaun district. With the inauguration of 75 MW power plant in Mirzapur by the Prime Minister,

the total capacity of solar power plants in Uttar Pradesh has gone up to 165 MW.

Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS)

CCRAS has developed and commercialized the following two drugs

AYUSH 82 An Anti Diabetic Ayurvedic Formulation.

AYUSH SG An Anti-Rheumatoid Arthritis preparation.

CCRAS is actively involved in scientific process of drug development adopting prevalent guidelines such as Good

Clinical Practices Guidelines for ASU drugs (GCP-ASU), Ministry of AYUSH and National ethical guidelines for Bio-

Medical Research (ICMR), WHO guidelines for traditional medicines etc. as per requirement and as feasible

through its peripheral institutes.

UDYAM SAKHI

UDYAM SAKHI is a network for nurturing social entrepreneurship creating business models revolving around low-

cost products and services to resolve social inequities. Women in India can play a very vital role to support the

growth of Indian economy by introducing SME's in a various sector with the support of Government India.

UDYAM SAKHI network is a platform for emerging Women Entrepreneurs of India to get support to understand

current scenario of industries and to get guidance in various aspect of entrepreneurship.

Over the past few years, India has record growth in women entrepreneurship and more women are pursuing their

career in this direction. In India, there are about 8 million women who have started or are running their businesses.

Apart from that, women have 24% share in corporate senior management positions in India.

Atal Bhujal Yojana

In order to manage water resources efficiently and strengthen groundwater recharge, the government has decided

to fast-track Atal Bhujal Yojana conceived at a cost of Rs 6000 crore. The Central Ground Water Board statistics

reveal 1034 out of the 6584 assessed blocks to be over-exploited where the amount of groundwater extracted is

far more than recharge.

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The Government has proposed Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABHY) aimed at sustainable ground water management

with community participation in select over-exploited and ground water stressed areas in seven

States (Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh).

ABHY is designed as a Central Sector Scheme with a total outlay of Rs. 6,000 Crore and is proposed to be

implemented with World Bank assistance.

Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra

Government of India has approved a new scheme namely, Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra (MSK) for 2017-

18 upto 2019-20 to empower rural women through community participation and to create an environment in which

they realize their full potential.

The new scheme is envisaged to work at various levels. While, National level (domain based knowledge support)

and State level (State Resource Centre for Women) structures will provide technical support to the respective

government on issues related to women, the District and Block level Centres will provide support to MSK and also

give a foothold to BBBP in 640 districts to be covered in a phased manner.

Women empowerment is multi-dimensional and the services provided under MSK will build upon by leveraging

available resources of variety of schemes/programmes of the government at the district/block level.

Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana

The Government of India has approved Pan-India implementation of PMMVY in all districts of the country from

01.01.2017 under which the eligible beneficiaries getRs. 5,000/- under PMMVY and the remaining cash incentive

as per approved norms towards Maternity Benefit under Janani Suraksha Yojana (JSY) after institutional delivery

so that on an average, a woman gets Rs. 6000/-.

Providing partial compensation for the wage loss in terms of cash incentive s so that the woman can take adequate

res t before and after delivery of the first living child.

PMMVY is a Maternity Benefit Programme that is implemented in all the districts of the country in accordance with

the provision of the National Food Security Act, 2013.

KUSUM Scheme – harnessing solar power for rural India

Solar water pumps to be installed in remote areas for irrigation needs Farmers can get extra income by

selling surplus solar power to DISCOMs

The Government of India is in the process of formulating a Scheme ‘KisanUrja Suraksha evam Utthaan

Mahabhiyan (KUSUM)’ which, inter alia, provides for: installation of grid-connected solar power plants each of

capacity up to 2 MW in the rural areas; installation of standalone off-grid solar water pumps to fulfill irrigation needs

of farmers not connected to grid; solarization of existing grid-connected agriculture pumps to make farmers

independent of grid supply and also enable them to sell surplus solar power generated to DISCOM and get extra

income; and solarization of tube-wells and lift irrigation projects of Government sector.

NITI Aayog Released SATH-Education Roadmaps 2018-2020

The roadmaps for the Sustainable Action for Transforming Human Capital in Education (SATH-E) Project of

NITI Aayog, being undertaken in partnership with three participating States of Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh and

Odisha, were released.

The forward-looking roadmaps for SATH-E were released at the conclusion of the first meeting of the National

Steering Group (NSG), the governing body for the project, which is chaired by the CEO of NITI Aayog.

SATH-E aspires to be a ‘saathi’, to the educational system with the student and the teacher at its centre. The aim

is to make the entire governmental school education system responsive, aspirational and transformational for

every child.

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These programmes and other initiatives stated in the Roadmap will be further strengthened, customized and

executed by the SATH-E States in consultation with knowledge partners – the Boston Consulting Group and

Piramal Foundation for Education Leadership – over the next 24 months.

This ‘tripartite arrangement’, where the NITI Aayog, the three States, chosen through a challenge method,

and knowledge partners from the private sector, symbolises the very essence of competitive and

cooperative federalism exemplified by NITI.

The process ensured that schemes of the Ministry of Human Resource Development (MHRD) and projects

under SATH-E are in sync with their respective state schemes.

SATH-E has been envisaged as a programme which aims to transform elementary and secondary school

education across these three state

SATH-E roadmap refers to a time-bound, goal-driven exercise that will reach its logical culmination by the

end of the academic year 2020. Further, the foundations of other long term interventions, as is found necessary

by each state, would be laid during this period.

SATH-E aims to create role model States for education and mainstream ‘islands of excellence’ across the

country to facilitate qualitative and quantitative transformation of learning outcomes. Marrying technology

with need-based, data-driven assessment and a ‘giving it what it takes’ approach – be it innovation,

incubation, external third party funding and Public- Private- Philanthropic Partnership (PPPP)

experimentation – SATH-E puts the States in the driver’s seat to transform education at scale.

Festival of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (FINE)

The Festival of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (FINE) {previously known as Festival of Innovation FOIN)} is a

unique initiative of the Office of the President of India to recognise, respect and reward grassroots

innovations and foster a supportive ecosystem. Hosted in the month of March at The President's House, the

FOIN has become a national celebration of creativity and innovation at and for grassroots.

FINE would provide platform to the innovators for building the linkages with potential stakeholders whose support

can improve their prospects in coming years for the larger social good.

It will also help in promoting lateral learning and linkages among the innovators to enrich the ecosystem for new

India. It would also be a great opportunity to create awareness about the importance of various Ministries of

Government of India attaches to their effort and participation in the FINE.

First India-Japan Workshop on Disaster Risk Reduction

India and Japan, two of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, are coming together to address

disaster risk. Over a two-day workshop conducted to discuss issues pertaining to Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR),

especially earthquakes.

Japan is situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire and is highly susceptible to earthquakes. Given its long

history of devastating earthquakes, Japan has a very high level of community awareness. Its technological know-

how, especially in the area of earthquake risk reduction, is among the most advanced in the world.

India is rapidly urbanising and a massive investment in the infrastructure sector is imminent. As nearly 59% of

India’s landmass is prone to moderate to severe earthquakes, it will not only save lives in the event of an

earthquake but also make for great economic sense that this investment is made earthquake resilient.

Six technical sessions held during the workshop was Disaster Management Policy Framework, Risk

Assessment, Disaster Resilient Infrastructure , Early Warning System , Preparedness/Response at sub-national

level, Approaches by private sector.

Informal World Trade Organisation Ministerial Meeting

Representatives from 52 countries gatherd in New Delhi on 19-20 March for an informal World Trade Organisation

(WTO) ministerial meeting.

Safeguarding and strengthening the multilateral trading system was never as important as it is today, and the WTO

is also facing systemic challenges, particularly its dispute settlement arm.

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The informal meeting of ministers in New Delhi provided an opportunity to engage in free and frank discussions

leading to political guidance on some of the major issues, both at the negotiating table and also in other areas.

The topmost decision-making body of the WTO is the Ministerial Conference, which usually meets every two years.

It brings together all members of the WTO, all of which are countries or customs unions. The Ministerial Conference

can take decisions on all matters under any of the multilateral trade agreements.

International Competition Network 2018

India is hosting the 17th Annual Conference of International Competition Network 2018 (ICN2018) in New Delhi.

The Festival of Innovation (FOIN) is a unique initiative of the Office of the President of India to recognise, respect

and reward grassroots innovations and foster a supportive ecosystem.

The ICN holds an Annual Conference which is hosted by a member competition agency. The last such Conference

was hosted by Portuguese Competition Authority in 2017 at Porto, Portugal.

This is the first time India is hosting the ICN2018 Annual Conference since it joined International

Competition Network (ICN) in 2009.

The conference will provide an opportunity to exchange ideas and strategies for effective enforcement of

competition law and for strengthening cooperation amongst the competition authorities as they strive to

promote and sustain competition in rapidly changing markets.

POSHAN Abhiyaan

The Ministry of Women and Child Development is organising the day long workshop with participation from all the

states/UTs to provide a complete orientation on the POSHAN Abhiyaan, to explain the key components of the

Abhiyaan, to provide handholding in using the softwares involved, and to augment the convergence with the

different Ministries involved in implementing the Abhiyaan for improved Nutritional outcomes.

The Executive Committee which is the Apex body for all Nutrition related activities under the POSHAN

Abhiyaan,held its first meeting today to decide on the roadmap for the Mission.

Conservation-cum-Development of Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups

The Government of India has identified following three Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in the State

of Maharashtra:

Katkaria (Kathodia)

Kolam

Maria Gond

Ministry of Tribal Affairs is implementing a Central Sector Scheme, “Support to Tribal Research Institute

(TRIs)”, under which financial assistance is provided to TRI’s to carry out various activities to preserve and

promote tribal culture and heritage across the country through research and documentation, maintenance and

preservation of art &artifacts, setting up of tribal museum, exchange visits for the tribals to other parts of the State,

organizing tribal festivals etc.

The Ministry is administering the scheme namely “Development of PVTGs” for overall development of

PVTGs. This scheme is flexible and enables the States to focus on areas that they consider is relevant to PVTGs

and their socio-cultural environment.

Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC)

BIRAC (Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council) - a Section 25 ‘Not-for-Profit Company’ of

Government of India, registered under Indian Companies Act 1956, set up as Department of Biotechnology’s

interface agency, which serves as a single window for the emerging biotech industries – has completed 2 years

of incorporation today 20th March, 2014

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The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) celebrated its 6th Foundation Day.

Themed as ‘Sustaining Innovation – A Market Driven Pathway’, the event was attended by a large number of

dignitaries from the scientific and industry sectors both from within the country and overseas.

BIRAC has played a critical role in supporting the entrepreneurial aspirations of brightest minds in the country

through its programs and mentor support networks in keeping with the Government’s mandate.

Ayushman Bharat – National Health Protection Mission

The Union approved the launch of a new Centrally Sponsored Ayushman Bharat -National Health Protection

Mission (AB-NHPM) having central sector component under Ayushman Bharat Mission anchored in the MoHFW.

The scheme has the benefit cover of Rs. 5 lakh per family per year.

The target beneficiaries of the proposed scheme will be more than 10 crore families belonging to poor and

vulnerable population based on SECC database.

AB-NHPM will subsume the on-going centrally sponsored schemes -RashtriyaSwasthyaBimaYojana (RSBY) and

the Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS).

At the national level to manage, an Ayushman Bharat National Health Protection Mission Agency (AB-NHPMA)

would be put in place. States/ UTs would be advised to implement the scheme by a dedicated entity called State

Health Agency (SHA).

Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016

The Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016 proposes to regulate surrogacy in India by establishing National Surrogacy

Board at the central level and, State Surrogacy Boards and Appropriate Authorities in the States and Union

Territories.

The proposed legislation ensures effective regulation of surrogacy, prohibit commercial surrogacy and allow

altruistic surrogacy to the needy Indian infertile couples.

Once the Bill is enacted by the Parliament, the National Surrogacy Board will be constituted. The States and Union

Territories shall constitute the State Surrogacy Board and State Appropriate Authorities within three months of the

notification by the Central Government.

While commercial surrogacy will be prohibited including sale and purchase of human embryo and gametes

Ethical surrogacy to the needy infertile couples will be allowed on fulfillment of certain conditions and for specific

purposes.

All Infertile Indian married couple who want to avail ethical surrogacy will be benefitted. Further, the rights of

surrogate mother and children born out of surrogacy will be protected.

Revision of Energy Norms under New Urea Policy

New Urea Policy- Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers is to Maximizing indigenous urea production; Promoting

energy efficiency in urea production; and Rationalizing subsidy burden on the government.

It will drive urea units to select better technology and different measure to reduce energy consumption.

The higher energy efficiency due to aforesaid measure will reduce subsidy bill. It is expected that there would be

reduction in the subsidy burden of the government in two ways – reduction in specific energy consumption norms

and import substitution on account of higher domestic production.

Urea coated with neem oil is neem coated urea. Only about 30 to 40% of N2 in the urea is utilized by the plants.

Coating of neem oil helps in gradual release of nitrates into soil. This may work as a bio pesticide.

Opening of Missions in Africa to implement commitments of India-Africa

Forum Summit (IAFS-III)

Approved the opening of 18 new Indian Missions in Africa over a four year period from 2018-2021.

The 18 new Indian Missions in Africa will be opened in Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Chad, Republic of

the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Guinea, Guinea Bissau, Liberia, Mauritania, Rwanda, Sao

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Tome& Principe, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Swaziland and Togo over a four-year period from 2018-2021 thereby

increasing the number of Resident Indian Missions in Africa from 29 to 47.

The decision will enhance India’s diplomatic outreach in the African continent and allow India to engage with

Indian diaspora in African countries. Opening of new Missions is also a step towards implementing the vision of

enhanced co-operation and engagement with Africa.

International Day of Forests

International Day of Forests is observed on March 21st every year.

2018 Theme: Forests and Sustainable Cities.

The International Day of Forests

The World Forestry Day was established in the year 1971 at the 23rd General Assembly of European Confederation

of Agriculture. And it was decided to be celebrated as an annual event celebration on 21st of March by the United

Nations Food and Agriculture Organization

Strategy on Resource Efficiency

Measures related to implementation of strategy on resource efficiency was announced by the Principal Advisor,

NITI Aayog

Resource Efficiency is cross-cutting, has implications for all sectors. Synergies need to be established for a robust

implementation agenda

NITI Aayog will facilitate the RE strategy implementation. Implementation however will be the responsibility of the

line ministries/departments

Resource efficiency very simply put is making more with fewer materials. In practice, through a life-cycle approach,

it leads to minimizing impact on environment & the associated societal burdens, transforming ‘waste’ into

‘resources’ fostering circular economy, and strengthening resource security.

Resource Efficiency and Circular Economy are important goals and central principles for achieving sustainable

development. Sustainability is a global priority and SDGs commitment and 11th Five year plan also clearly

enunciate importance of Resource efficiency (RE).

The new Indian Resource Panel (InRP) was officially unveiled in 2016, making India one of the first emerging

economies to set up a national advisory body on resource efficiency.

Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017

The Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2018 has been passed by parliament on 22ndMarch .The bill ensures

harmony amongst employees in the private sector and Public Sector Undertakings/Autonomous Organizations

under Government who are not covered under CCS (Pension) Rules.

The 2017 Bill empowers the central government to (i) notify the period of maternity leave eligible for qualifying as

continuous service; and (ii) determine the amount of gratuity available to employees.

The Bill removes the reference to 12 weeks in the 1972 Act and empowers the central government to notify the

maximum maternity leave.

Under the Act, the maximum amount of gratuity payable to an employee cannot exceed Rs 10 lakh. The Bill

removes the existing ceiling and states that the ceiling may be notified by the central government.

Toll Operate and Transfer (TOT) model

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which invited bids for various highways, hopes to generate more

than Rs 6,000 crore by leasing out the roads under the ‘toll-operate-transfer’ (TOT) model. This will provide NHAI

funds to build more highways, filling in for the private sector that is reluctant to invest in new highways.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs in 2016 had authorised NHAI to monetise 75 publicly funded national

highways that are operational and have been generating toll revenues for at least two years.

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Under this newly launched ToT model, the right to collect user-fee or toll on selected national highway stretches

built through public funding is proposed to be auctioned and assigned to a concessionaire for a period of 30 years

against an upfront payment of a lump-sum amount to the government.

Ethanol as Primary Fuel

The Government has notified mass emission standard for flex-fuel ethanol (E85) or (E100)and ethanol (ED95)

vehicles,videnotificationG.S.R. 682(E) dated 12th July, 2016 after inviting suggestions from the public and different

stakeholders.

The Government, through Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs) is implementing the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP)

Programme under which OMCs sell ethanol blended petrol with percentage of ethanol upto 10% subject to its

availability and as per BIS specifications.

Is strongly opposed by car manufacturers at levels above 10% blending in gasoline, and many major automakers

have formally stated that use of 15% ethanol blended gas in their vehicles will void the warranty.

Bio-medical Waste Management Rules Amended to Protect Human Health

The Bio-Medical Waste Management Rules, 2016 Rules have been amended to improve compliance and

strengthen the implementation of environmentally sound management of biomedical waste in India.

Bio-medical waste generators including hospitals, nursing homes, clinics, dispensaries, veterinary institutions,

animal houses, pathological laboratories, blood banks, health care facilities, and clinical establishments will have

to phase out chlorinated plastic bags (excluding blood bags) and gloves by March 27, 2019.

All healthcare facilities shall make available the annual report on its website within a period of two years from the

date of publication of the Bio-Medical Waste Management (Amendment) Rules, 2018.

Operators of common bio-medical waste treatment and disposal facilities shall establish bar coding and global

positioning system for handling of bio-medical waste in accordance with guidelines issued by the Central Pollution

Control Board by March 27, 2019.

The first-ever National Conference on Drug Law Enforcement

The first-ever National Conference on Drug Law Enforcement was held in New Delhi. The 2-day conference was

organized by Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Ministry of Home Affairs.

More than 50 State and Central law enforcement agencies involved in combating drug trafficking had participated

in this Conference. The working sessions of conference focused on various topics such as ‘Wider context of drug

trafficking in India’, ‘Financial Investigations’ and ‘Foreign & Cyber Investigations’.

TRIFED-“E- Tribes”

The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India, (TRIFED), under the Ministry of Tribal Affairs,

has launched “E- Tribes”, TRIFED’s websites.

Going Digital will lead to expansion of tribal commerce and the availability of tribal products over large area, reaping

greater benefits for tribal artisans. Retail Trade of tribal products would expand all over the country and the world.

TRIFED has developed its own e-commerce (electronic commerce) website i.e., tribesindia.com for sale of all its

products and app to tap m-commerce (mobile commerce) too.

ISA a juridical personality now

The International Solar Alliance (ISA) and the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), signed the Host Country

Agreement. The Agreement will give ISA a juridical personality and gives it power to contract, to acquire and

dispose of movable and immovable properties, to institute and defend legal proceedings.

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Under this agreement, ISA shall enjoy such privileges, applicable tax concessions and immunities as are

necessary for ISA’s Headquarter to independently discharge its function and programmes. ISA shall be

deriving its status, privileges and immunities as per Article 10 of Framework Agreement.

ISA has presently four ongoing programmes: Scaling Solar Applications for Agricultural Use, Affordable Finance

at Scale, Scaling Solar Mini Grids and Scaling Solar Rooftop catering to the needs of solar energy in specific areas.

The Framework Agreement coming into force on 6th December 2017, the ISA became the first international

intergovernmental treaty-based organization to be headquartered in India. ISA celebrated its founding day on

11th March, 2018.

‘National Conference on Down Syndrome’

A National Conference on Down Syndrome’ was organised by the National Trust under Ministry of Social Justice

and Empowerment.

A book entitled “Twilights Children” based on the lives of person suffering from Down Syndrome was released

on the occasion. The conference brought intellectuals from all walks of life on one platform to spur ideas and

channelized knowledge on Down Syndrome which was very beneficial to enable a positive change in the people

with Down Syndrome. People with Down Syndrome and their parents were invited to share their inspirational

stories.

It is a chromosomal condition associated with intellectual and learning disabilities. Delayed development and

behavioural problems are often reported in children with it.

On 19th December 2011, the United Nations General Assembly declared to observe 21st March as World Down

Syndrome Day (WDSD) and since then every year, this day is officially observed by UN to create awareness

about people with Down Syndrome.

The Regional 3R Forum in Asia and the Pacific

India is getting ready to host the 8th 3R Regional Forum in Asia and the Pacific in its cleanest city Indore, under

the theme of “Achieving Clean Water, Clean Land and Clean Air through 3R and Resource Efficiency- A 21st

Century Vision for Asia-Pacific Communities”.

With the aim of contributing to the creation of a recycling-oriented society, the SoftBank Group conducts a number

of 3R activities (3R = Reduce, Reuse, Recycle).

To increase understanding and encourage participation in such activities, eight Japanese government ministries

have designated the month of October as 3R promotion month. Each year, the ministries conduct a variety of

activities to raise awareness and promote the concept of 3R nationwide.

The Regional 3R Forum in Asia and the Pacific was launched in 2009 in Tokyo, Japan.

Re-structuring of National Skill Development Fund (NSDF) and National Skill

Development Corporation (NSDC)

The Union Cabinet given its approval for restructuring of National Skill Development Fund (NSDF) and

National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) to strengthen governance, implementation and

monitoring framework.

The restructuring will also ensure better corporate governance, transparency and accountability in operations of

NSDC besides strengthening the oversight role of NSDF. The approval would lead to restructuring of composition

of Board of NSDF and the NSDC to strengthen governance, implementation and monitoring framework.

NSDC and NSDF were set up by the Ministry of Finance and registered in July, 2008 and January, 2009

respectively for implementing coordinated action for skill development.

NSDF trust was incorporated to act as a receptacle for financial contributions from Governmental sources,

bilateral/multilateral and other agencies. Its main objective is to enhance, stimulate and develop the skills of Indian

youth force by various sector specific programmes.

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NSDF entered into an Investment Management Agreement (IMA) with NSDC for utilization of its corpus to meet

the desired objectives of National Skill Development Mission and encourage skill development in the country.

Provision of supervisory role of NSDF over NSDC’s functions is also included in the IMA between NSDC and

NSDF.

A new Integrated Scheme for School Education

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the proposal of Department of School Education

and Literacy to formulate a Integrated Scheme on School Education by subsuming SarvaShikshaAbhiyan

(SSA), RashtriyaMadhyamikShikshaAbhiyan (RMSA) and Teacher Education (TE) from 1st April, 2018 to 31st

March, 2020. An estimated allocation of Rs 75,000 crore over the period has been approved which is a 20%

increase over the current allocations.

The vision of the Scheme is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education from nursery to senior

secondary stage in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goal for Education.

The main emphasis of the Integrated Scheme is on improving quality of school education by focussing on the

two T's - Teacher and Technology.

The Scheme gives flexibility to the States and UTs to plan and prioritize their interventions within the scheme

norms and the overall resource envelope available to them.

It will help improve the transition rates across the various levels of school education and aid in promoting

universal access to children to complete school education.

The Scheme, by providing quality education, aims to equip the children with varied skills and knowledge

essential for their holistic development and prepare them for the world of work or higher education in the future.

It would lead to an optimal utilization of budgetary allocations and effective use of human resources and

institutional structures created for the erstwhile Schemes.

National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill

The Union Cabinet chaired approved certain official amendments to the National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill.

The Amendments are

Final MBBS Examination to be held as a common exam across the country and would serve as an exit test

called the National Exit Test (NEXT)

Provision of Bridge course for AYUSH practitioners to practice modern medicine removed. It has been left to

the State Governments to take necessary measures for addressing and promoting primary health care in rural

areas.

The maximum limit of 40% seats for which fee would be regulated in private medical institutions and deemed

universities has been increased to 50% seats.

Number of nominees from States and UTs in NMC increased from 3 to 6

Monetary penalty for a medical college non-compliant with the norms replaced with provision for different

penalty options like warning, reasonable monetary penalty, reducing intake, stoppage of admission leading up

to withdrawal of recognition.

Stringent punishment for unqualified medical practitioners or quacks . The punishment for any unauthorized

practice of medicine has been made severe by including a provision for imprisonment of up to one year along

with a fine extending up to Rs. 5 lakhs.

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Febuary 2018 Coach Factory in Marathwada, Maharashtra

A massive rail coach factory will be set up in Latur, Maharashtra by Indian Railways. This plant would manufacture

Electric Multiple Units for suburban trains and coaches for metros.

Marathwada, the region where Latur lies, is amongst the most backward areas of Maharashtra.

There have been few central government projects in this region. This will massively benefit ‘Make in India’, and bring

employment to a large number of people. In addition, it will create an industrial ecosystem in the drought prone region

boosting shift from agriculture to industry. It may be noted that the region suffers from heavy migration to other parts

of the country.

Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme (TEQIP)

In a move to improve technical education in backward areas of the country, the Union Minister for Human Resources

and Development Prakash Javadekar informed that more than 1200 graduates from IITs and NITs will teach in

engineering colleges in poor districts for three years.

TEQIP or Technical Education Quality Improvement Programme is an initiative of the National Project Implementation

Unit (NPIU) which implements World Bank Assisted Projects in Technical Education. The initiative is aimed at

improving the quality of engineering graduates.

Prevention of Money-laundering Act, 2002 through Finance Act, 2018

The Amendments aim at further enhancing the effectiveness of the Act, widen its scope and take care of certain

procedural difficulties faced by the Enforcement Directorate in prosecution of PMLA cases.

Amendment in definition of “proceeds of crime”: The definition of "proceeds of crime" in PMLA was amended

in 2015 to include "property equivalent held within the country" in case proceeds of crime is taken out or held

"outside the country". The present amendment shall allow proceeding against property equivalent to proceeds

to crime held outside the country also.

Amendment in bail provisions: Amendment proposed in Section 45(1) would make the applicability of bail

conditions uniform to all the offences under PMLA, instead of only those offences under the schedule which are

liable to imprisonment of more than 3 years. This will be a significant step forward in delinking the

proceedings against scheduled offences and Money laundering offences under PMLA.

Corporate frauds included as Scheduled offence: Section 447 of Companies Act is being included as

scheduled offence under PMLA so that Registrar of Companies in suitable cases would be able to report such

cases for action by Enforcement Directorate under the PMLA provisions. This provision shall strengthen the PMLA

with respect to corporate frauds.

Major initiatives in health sector

The Government announced two major initiatives in health sector, as part of Ayushman Bharat programme.

Health and Wellness Centre: The National Health Policy, 2017 has envisioned Health and Wellness Centres as the

foundation of India’s health system.

Under this 1.5 lakh centres will bring health care system closer to the homes of people. These centres will provide

comprehensive health care, including for non-communicable diseases and maternal and child health services.

These centres will also provide free essential drugs and diagnostic services. The Budget has allocated Rs.1200 crore

for this flagship programme. Contribution of private sector through CSR and philanthropic institutions in adopting these

centres is also envisaged.

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National Health Protection Scheme: The second flagship programme under Ayushman Bharat is National Health

Protection Scheme, which will cover over 10 crore poor and vulnerable families (approximately 50 crore beneficiaries)

providing coverage upto 5 lakh rupees per family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.

This will be the world’s largest government funded health care programme. Adequate funds will be provided for smooth

implementation of this programme.

The first ever International Kala Mela

The First ever International Kala Mela was inaugurated by the Vice President of India, Shri M. Venkaiah Naidu in

New Delhi.

To focus on direct interaction between the artist and the connoisseur and also educating and raising awareness

about art, which has been the mandate of Lalit Kala Akademi.

The Lalit Kala Akademi or National Academy of Art is India’s National Academy of Fine Arts. It is an autonomous

organization, established at New Delhi in 1954 to promote and propagate understanding of Indian art, both within

and outside the country.

Laghu Udyog Bharati

India Industrial Fair is one of the largest industrial trade shows in Rajasthan. IIF offers participating companies unique,

never before platform to exhibit products & services.

A national level meeting was recently convened by the Government of India with the members of Laghu Udyog Bharati.

IIF 2018 was organized by Department of Industries (Govt. of Rajasthan) and Laghu Udyog Bharti.

Laghu Udyog Bharati is a registered all India organization of Micro and Small Industries in India since 1994.

Fifth South Asia Region Public Procurement Conference

The Fifth edition of South Asia Region Public Procurement Conference was held in New Delhi. It was hosted by

Public Procurement Division (PPD) of Ministry of Finance and All India Management Association (AIMA).

It was held under auspices of South Asia Region Public Procurement Network (SARPPN), which is sponsored and

facilitated by the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and Islamic Development Bank

The theme of the Fifth Conference is: “Public Procurement and Service Delivery”.

The First Conference was held in Kathmandu in 2010, the second in Islamabad in 2014, the third in Dhaka 2015

and the fourth in Sri Lanka 2017.

India Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC)

The Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) has the mandate of detecting tsunamigenic

earthquakes occurring in the Indian Ocean as well as in the Global Oceans within 10 minutes of the occurrence of the

earthquake and disseminating the tsunami related advisories to the concerned authorities through email, fax, SMS,

GTS and website.

The Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC) established at Indian National Centre for Ocean Information

Sciences, (INCOIS – ESSO) Hyderabad, is an autonomous body under Ministry of Earth Sciences.

Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO has designated ITEWC as the Tsunami Service

Provider (TSP) for the entire Indian Ocean Region. Since 2012, ITEWC is providing tsunami advisories and related

services to about 25 countries.

“Development of Solar Cities” scheme

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy under its scheme “Development of Solar Cities” has

approved/sanctioned 60 Cities including 13 Pilot and 5 Model Cities up to 12th Five-year Plan period.

The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy is implementing a programme on ‘Development of Solar Cities’

which aims to reduce a minimum of 10% of the projected demand of conventional energy of the city through

renewable energy installations and energy efficiency measures.

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The Ministry provides Central Financial support up to Rs.5 lakh for preparing Master Plan for development of green

campus in the educational institutions, office complexes, residential and commercial complexes etc.Sixty Cities

are proposed to be developed as Solar Cities during the Eleventh Plan period including four Model Solar Cities

and 10 Pilot Solar Cities.

The Master plan for each Solar City is being prepared to assess and utilize various renewable sources including

Solar, Wind, and Municipal Waste etc.

Urbanization and economic development are leading to a rapid rise in energy demand in urban areas in our country

leading to enhanced Green House Gas (GHG) emissions.

Mahamastakabhisheka

The mastakabhisheka is held once in 12 years. One of the biggest festivals for the Jain community, it honors

Lord Bahubali, a revered Jain icon. According to Jain texts, Bahubali attained liberation from the cycle of births

and deaths (moksha) at Mount Kailash and is revered as a liberated soul (Siddha) by the Jains.

It is also historically believed to be a moment when political leadership has been involved in the event and also

when social reforms were carried out in Karnataka.

Bahubali is also called Gommateshwara because of the Gommateshwara statue dedicated to him and as lord

“Kammateswara” from an inscription.

The Gommateshwara statue was built by the Ganga dynasty minister and commander Chavundaraya; it is a 57-

foot monolith situated above a hill in Shravanabelagola in the Hassan district, Karnataka state, India. It was built

in around 981 A.D. and is one of the largest free-standing statues in the world.

Rationalization of Autonomous Bodies under Department of Health & Family

Welfare

The Union Cabinet approved the proposal for closure of Autonomous Bodies, namely, Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN)

and Jansankhya Sthirata Kosh (JSK) and the functions are proposed to be vested in Department of Health & Family

Welfare (DoHFW).

Based on the recommendations of Expenditure Management Commission, NITI Aayog had undertaken a review of the

19 Autonomous Bodies, under the DoHFW, that have been formed under Societies Registration Act, 1860 (SRA).

Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi (RAN): was set up under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare in 1997. The scheme provides for

financial assistance to patients, living below poverty line who is suffering from major life-threatening diseases, to receive

medical treatment at any of the super specialty hospitals/institutes or other Govt. hospitals.

JansankhyaSthirataKosh (JSK): was set up in the year 2003 to raise awareness for population stabilization strategies.

Village Resource Centres

To demonstrate the potential of satellite technology for development of rural areas, ISRO established Village Resource

Centres (VRCs) on a pilot scale, in association with selected NGOs, Trusts and State Government Departments.

This is one of the unique initiatives that uses Satellite Communication (SATCOM) network and Earth Observation

(EO) satellite data in a judicious combination to address the needs of the local people in villages.

New Instrument adopted by International Labour Organization (ILO)

The Union Cabinet has approved placing the new Instrument adopted by International Labour Organization (ILO)

Recommendation concerning “The Employment and Decent Work for Peace and Resilience (No.-205)” before the

Parliament.

Each member state of ILO is required to submit the instruments so adopted before the competent authority (the

Parliament in case of India).

The adoption and placing of the Instrument for the information of the Parliament does not create any immediate

obligation. An ILO Recommendations is a non-binding instrument which seeks to serve as a guiding principle for

national policy process.

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The Recommendation provides guidance to member States on the measures to be taken to generate employment

and decent work for the purposes of prevention, recovery, peace and resilience with respect to crisis situations

arising from conflicts and disasters.

The Recommendation No. 205 is applicable to all workers and job seekers, and to all employers, in all sectors of

the economy affected by crisis situations arising from conflicts and disasters and to workers engaged in crisis

response, including in the immediate response.

Ratification of the Minamata Convention on Mercury

The Union cabinet has approved a proposal for ratification of the Minamata Convention, a global treaty to protect

human health and the environment from adverse effects of mercury. After joining the Convention, it will now be easier

for India to get technological or financial assistance to address issues related to mercury.

The Minamata Convention on Mercury is a multilateral environmental agreement that addresses specific human

activities which are contributing to widespread mercury pollution. Implementation of this agreement will help reduce

global mercury pollution over the coming decades.

Change in the basis of classifying Micro, Small and Medium enterprises

The Union Cabinet chaired has approved change in the basis of classifying Micro, Small and Medium

enterprises from ‘investment in plant & machinery/equipment’ to ‘annual turnover’.

This will encourage ease of doing business, make the norms of classification growth oriented and align them to

the new tax regime revolving around GST (Goods & Services Tax).

Section 7 of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development (MSMED) Act, 2006 will accordingly be

amended to define units producing goods and rendering services in terms of annual turnover as follows:

A micro enterprise will be defined as a unit where the annual turnover does not exceed five crore rupees;

A small enterprise will be defined as a unit where the annual turnover is more than five crore rupees but does

not exceed Rs 75 crore;

A medium enterprise will be defined as a unit where the annual turnover is more than seventy five crore rupees

but does not exceed Rs 250 crore.

Additionally, the Central Government may, by notification, vary turnover limits, which shall not exceed thrice

the limits specified in Section 7 of the MSMED Act.

559 SwadharGreh presently functional in the country with 17231 beneficiaries

The Ministry of Women and Child Development is administering SwadharGreh Scheme (from 2002) for relief and

rehabilitation of women in difficult circumstances including the victims of sexual harassment. Similarly, a centrally

sponsored scheme namely Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) is being implemented for care, protection,

rehabilitation and reintegration of children in difficult circumstances including sexually harassed children.

National Women Entrepreneurship Council

The Ministry of Women and Child Development is considering establishing National Women Entrepreneurship Council

(NWEC). NWEC will promote entrepreneurship as it would be the umbrella organization for socio-economic gender

parity, financial inclusion and economic empowerment of women in India.

India presents lower opportunities for women to assume leadership roles, participation in the workforce or engagement

in entrepreneurial activities. Lack of education, technological know-how and cultural bias coupled with stringent

business and government regulations are some key impediments that happen to undermine women’s ability to rise to

positions of leadership and take advantage of entrepreneurial opportunities in India.

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“Healthy States, Progressive India” Report

"Healthy States, Progressive India" is a comprehensive Health Index report released by the NITI Aayog. The

report ranks states and Union territories innovatively on their year-on-year incremental change in health outcomes, as

well as, their overall performance with respect to each other.

The report has been developed by NITI Aayog, with technical assistance from the World Bank, and in consultation

with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

States and UTs have been ranked in three categories namely, Larger States (21), Smaller States (8), and Union

Territories (UTs)(8), to ensure comparison among similar entities.

The Health Index is a weighted composite Index, which for the larger States, is based on indicators in three domains:

(a) Health Outcomes (70%); (b) Governance and Information (12%); and (c) Key Inputs and Processes (18%), with

each domain assigned a weight based on its importance. The Index includes 23 indicators which are used to calculate

the composite index score and generate overall performance ranks and incremental ranks.

Among the Larger States, Kerala, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu ranked on top in terms of overall performance, while

Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttar Pradesh are the top three ranking States in terms of annual incremental

performance. Jharkhand, Jammu & Kashmir, and Uttar Pradesh showed the maximum gains in improvement of health

outcomes from base to reference year in indicators such as Neonatal Mortality Rate (NMR), Under-five Mortality Rate

(U5MR), full immunization coverage, institutional deliveries, and People Living with HIV (PLHIV) on Anti-Retroviral

Therapy (ART).

Among Smaller States, Mizoram ranked first followed by Manipur on overall performance, while Manipur followed by

Goa were the top ranked States in terms of annual incremental performance.

ASH TRACK Mobile App

ASH TRACK Mobile App has been launched by the Ministry of Power for better management of fly ash produced by

thermal power plants by providing an interface between fly ash producers (Thermal Power Plants) and potential ash

users such as – road contractors, cement plants etc.

Fly ash, the end product of combustion during the process of power generation in the coal based thermal power plants,

is a proven resource material for many applications of construction industries and currently is being utilized in

manufacturing of Portland Cement, bricks/blocks/tiles manufacturing, road embankment construction and low lying

area development, etc.

The ASH TRACK App would be managing 200 million tonnes of fly ash by tracking coal based power plants situated

within 100 km and 300 km from given location and availability of fly ash, along with prospective users within the same

radius.

Integrated Automatic Aviation Meteorological Systems (IAAMS)

‘Integrated Automatic Aviation Meteorological System (IAAMS)’ was recently inaugurated at INS Garuda. INS Garuda

is the fourth air station to have been installed with this integrated system.

IAAMS is an ambitious project of the Indian Navy to modernise the Meteorological infrastructure of the nine Naval Air

Stations. The IAAMS project at INS Garuda will give a major fillip to aviation safety through automation of weather

monitoring process.

India Health Fund to boost-research on TB, malaria

The India Health Fund (IHF), an initiative by Tata Trusts, in collaboration with the Global Fund has come forward to

financially support innovations and technologies designed to combat tuberculosis and malaria.

It is to support individuals and organisations with already germinated innovative strategies, services, products, such

that they become sustainable and scalable solutions in addressing TB and malaria.

TB and malaria pose long-standing health challenges for India. The two diseases account for over 4.23 lakh deaths

and around 15 million lab-confirmed cases every year.

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National Deworming initiative

The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) launched National Deworming Initiative on the

occasion of National Deworming Day (observed on 10 February).

It aims to reach more than 32.2 crore children aged between 1 to 19 years to combat parasitic worm infections.

This year it is 4th edition of National Deworming Day after it was launched in 2015.

India carries the highest burden of worm infestation and 64% of Indian population less than 14 years of age

are at risk of Soil Transmitted Helminths (STH) or worms’ infestation (WHO) life.

Parasitic worms in children interfere with nutrient uptake, and can contribute to anaemia, malnourishment,

and impaired mental and physical development. Parasitic worms have also debilitating consequences on the

health and education of children, and on their long-term earning potential.

According to the 2012 report ‘Children in India’, published by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme

Implementation, 48% of children under the age of 5 years are stunted and 19.8% are wasted, indicating that

half of the country’s children are malnourished.

India State of Forest Report 2017 (ISFR)

India has shown an increasing trend in the forest and tree cover, in comparison to the global trend of decreasing

forest cover during the last decade

India is ranked 10th in the world, with 24.4% of land area under forest and tree cover, even though it

accounts for 2.4 % of the world surface area and sustains the needs of 17 % of human and 18 % livestock

population.

As per the ISFR 2017, the total mangrove cover stands at 4,921 sq km and has shown an increase of 181 sq km.

All the 12 mangrove states have shown a positive change in the mangrove cover, as compared to the last

assessment. Mangrove ecosystem is rich in biodiversity and provides a number of ecological services.

It is a biennial publication of Forest survey of India (FSI), an organization under the Ministry of

Environment Forest, & Climate Change, Government of India, engaged in the assessment of the country’s forest

resources. The 1st State of Forest Report was brought out in 1987. Since then, FSI has published 14 such reports

and the ISFR 2017 is the 15th Report in the series.

The report provides state/district wise forest cover of the country and changes thereon with respect to the previous

assessment. It also provides the estimates of growing stock within and outside the forest areas, forest cover in hill,

tribal and north eastern states, carbon and other important aspects such as tree, bamboo and mangrove cover.

World Radio Day

It is an observance day held annually on 13 February. Radio is the mass media reaching the widest audience in the

world. It is also recognized as a powerful communication tool and a low-cost medium.

The first edition of World Radio Day in 2012, Lifeline Energy, FrontlineSMS, SOAS Radio and Empower house hosted

a seminar in London. A variety of practitioners, academics and tools providers joined at the School of Oriental and

African Studies to explore ways in which radio reaches even the most remote and vulnerable communities.

‘India Pharma & India Medical Device 2018’: Affordable and Quality

Healthcare

The Department of Pharmaceuticals (DoP), Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers, along with Federation of Indian

Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI), is organizing ‘India Pharma & India Medical Device 2018’, Theme -

‘Affordable and Quality Healthcare’

It is India’s biggest Global Conference on Pharma Industry and Medical Devices.

The event would be a positive step towards the development of Future Drugs i.e. Biologics and will catalyze the overall

growth of the Pharmaceuticals Sector in India”.

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Central Geological Programming Board

The 57th Meeting of the Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB) was recently held. Representatives of

State Departments, Central Ministries/ organizations, PSUs, academic institutes and private entrepreneurs attended

the 57th CGPB meeting.

The Central Geological Programming Board (CGPB): It is the apex body at the national level to overview the

programme of geoscientific activities including mineral exploration in the country. It was established through

Government of India Resolution in 1966, and subsequently revamped in 2009 with the constitution of 12 theme-based

committees. CGPB meetings are held twice in a year.

New Bill to ban Unregulated Deposit Schemes and Chit Funds (Amendment)

Bill, 2018

Union Cabinet chaired has given its approval to introduce the following bills in the Parliament:-

The Banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2018: The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister

Shri Narendra Modi has given approval to introduce the banning of Unregulated Deposit Schemes Bill, 2018 in

Parliament. The bill is aimed at tackling the menace of illicit deposit taking activities in the country. Companies/

institutions running such schemes exploit existing regulatory gaps and lack of strict administrative measures to

dupe poor and gullible people of their hard-earned savings.

The Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2018: The Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi,

has given its approval to introduce the Chit Funds (Amendment) Bill, 2018 in Parliament. In order to facilitate

orderly growth of the Chit Funds sector and remove bottlenecks being faced by the Chit Funds industry, thereby

enabling greater financial access of people to other financial products, the following amendments to the Chit Funds

Act, 1982 have been proposed.

International Mother Language Day

The United Nations’ (UN) International Mother Language Day annually celebrates language diversity and variety

worldwide on February 21. With this, UNESCO aims at preserving it and promoting mother tongue-based multilingual

education.

The theme of 2018’s International Mother Language Day is ‘linguistic diversity and multilingualism for sustainable

development.’

SDG4: International Mother Language Day also supports target 6 of Goal 4 of the Sustainable Development Goals

(SDGs): “Ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion of adults, both men and women, achieve literacy and

numeracy.”

Operation Greens

The government recently interacted with the stakeholders including Farmer Producer Organisations and farmers,

to gather input on their concerns and suggestions thereof on the modalities of Operation Greens.

Operation Greens aims to promote farmer producers organisations, agri-logistics, processing facilities and

professional management. The operation aims to aid farmers and help control and limit the erratic fluctuations in

the prices of onions, potatoes and tomatoes. It was announced by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his budget

speech.

Operation Green (OG) wants to replicate the success story of Operation Flood, in fruits and vegetables, starting

with three basic vegetables—tomatoes, onions and potatoes (TOP). The main objective of OG is to reduce price

volatility in these commodities, and thereby helping farmers augment incomes on a sustainable basis, as also

provide these basic vegetables to consumers at affordable prices.

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NITI Forum for Northeast

The Union Government has issued order setting up the ‘Niti Forum for North-East’. ‘Niti Forum for North-East’ has

been set up to identify constraints and recommend suitable interventions for speedy and sustainable growth in

northeast region.

The NITI Forum for Northeast is tasked to identify various constraints on the way of accelerated, inclusive and

sustainable economic growth in the North East Region of the country and to recommend suitable interventions for

addressing identified constraints. It will also review the development status in the NER.

The forum will be co-chaired by the Vice-Chairman of NITI Aayog and Minister of State (I/C), Ministry of

Development of Northeastern Region (DoNER).

Tribunal to settle Mahanadi water dispute

The Union Cabinet has approved the setting up of a tribunal to settle a row between Odisha and Chhattisgarh on

sharing the waters of the river Mahanadi.

With a chairperson and two other members, the tribunal will be formed according to the provisions of the Inter-

State River Water Disputes (ISRWD), 1956. The Chief Justice of India would nominate the chairperson and

members for the tribunal from among the judges of the apex court or high courts.

As per provisions of the ISRWD Act, 1956 the Tribunal is required to submit its report and decision within a period

of 3 years which can be extended to a further period not exceeding 2 years due to unavoidable reasons.

Odisha and Chhattisgarh are locked in a dispute over the Mahanadi waters since the mid-80s. Odisha claimed

that Chhattisgarh government has been constructing dams in the upper reaches of the Mahanadi, depriving its

farmers who are heavily dependent on the rivers waters. Chhattisgarh has been against the setting up of a tribunal,

and argued that the water sharing agreement was with the erstwhile Madhya Pradesh government, before the

state was carved out in 2000.

Chardham Mahamarg Pariyojana

Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved Silkyara Bend-Barkot Tunnel in Uttarkhand as part of

‘Chardham Mahamarg Pariyojana’. The construction of this tunnel will provide all weather connectivity to Yamunotri,

one of the dham on Chardham Yatra, encouraging regional socio-economic development, trade and tourism within the

country.

Chardham Pariyojana: The Chardham Mahamarg Vikas Pariyojna, or the Chardham highway development project,

is an ambitious initiative to improve connectivity to the Char Dham pilgrimage centres in the Himalayas. The project’s

main objective is to develop around 900 km of national highways. These highways will be built in Uttarakhand at an

approximate cost of Rs 12,000 crore. The project will make travel to the Char Dham (Gangotri, Yamunotri, Kedarnath

and Badrinath) safer and more convenient.

Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav-2018

To celebrate the idea of unity in diversity, the Ministry of Culture is organising the Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav at

Gwalior.

The Mahotsav will cover a profusion of art forms from classical and folk, music and dance, theatre to literature and

the visual arts and would offer the chance to experience the best in established and emerging virtuosity.

The Ministry of Culture is organising the event under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat matrix.

The event will be held in Madhya Pradesh.

Heavy water board

Heavy Water Board has signed a collaborative agreement with M/s Clearsynth, Mumbai for sale of 20 tonnes of

Heavy Water in a year for development of deuterium labeled compounds, NMR Solvents, d-labeled Active Pharma

Ingredients (APIs). This marks the beginning of an important era in the annals of Indian Nuclear industry leading

to societal benefits for the masses.

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Heavy Water Board (HWB) is a constituent unit under the Department of Atomic Energy.

The organisation is primarily responsible for production of Heavy Water (D2O) which is used as a ‘moderator’ and

‘Coolant’ in nuclear power as well as research reactors. Other than Heavy Water, HWB is also engaged with

production of different types of nuclear grade solvents and extraction of rare materials.

20th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers

20th Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers is being held at Fiji. The Conference of Commonwealth

Education Ministers is a high-level meeting that brings together education Ministers from the 52 Commonwealth

countries to discuss key issues on education.

Theme: The theme for 20CCEM is Sustainability and Resilience: Can Education Deliver? It includes three

subthemes: Education for sustainable development, Building resilience through education and Education

governance & management

The Commonwealth education conference has been taking place every three years since 1959, when the first

meeting was held in Oxford. It is the second largest meeting organised by the Commonwealth Secretariat after the

Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM).

2018 conference will be the first Conference of Commonwealth Education Ministers (CCEM) since the global

community adopted the 2030 agenda for sustainable development. The meeting will give education ministers the

opportunity to agree on effective strategies to help individual countries achieve Sustainable Development Goal

(SDG) 4 – inclusive and quality education for all.

Kenya has formally undertaken to host the 21st Commonwealth Conference of Education Ministers in 2021.

Bahamas hosted the 19th Conference.

National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts

The Ministry of Shipping and IIT Chennai have signed an MoU to set up National Technology Centre for Ports,

Waterways and Coasts (NTCPWC), at IIT Chennai.

NTCPWC is being set up under the Shipping Ministry’s flagship programme Sagarmala. Envisioned as a world class

state-of-the – art centre, NTCPWC will be a hub for latest technology tools and reduce our dependence on foreign

institutions. It will also reduce the cost of research drastically and result in cost and time savings for work in the port

and maritime sector.

Functions:It will act as a technology arm of the Ministry of Shipping for providing engineering and technological inputs

and support for Ports, Inland Waterways Authority of India and other institutions. It will carry on applied research in the

areas of 2D and 3D Modelling of ocean, coastal and estuarine flows, sediment transport and morphodynamics,

navigation and maneuvering, dredging and siltation, port and coastal engineering-structures and breakwaters.

Sagarmala: The Sagarmala project seeks to develop a string of ports around India’s coast. The objective of this

initiative is to promote “Port-led development” along India’s 7500 km long coastline. It aims to develop access to new

development regions with intermodal solutions and promotion of the optimum modal split, enhanced connectivity with

main economic centres and beyond through expansion of rail, inland water, coastal and road services. The Union

Ministry of Shipping has been appointed as the nodal ministry for this initiative.

GOBAR-Dhan Yojana

The government is planning to create an online platform for trading cow dung and agricultural waste under its

recently announced waste to wealth scheme, GOBAR-DHAN (Galvanising Organic Bio Agro Resources) scheme.

The Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resources Dhan (GOBAR-DHAN) scheme was first announced by Finance

Minister during his budget speech on February 1.

The scheme would focus on managing and converting cattle dung and solid waste in farms to compost, biogas

and bio-CNG. It will help in keeping the village clean while increasing the income of farmers and cattle herders.

This is hugely helpful for the country as India is home to the highest cattle population in the world, close to 300

million in number, with a daily output of 3 million tonnes of dung.

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The Scheme will encourage the farmers to consider dung and other waste not just as a waste but as a source of

income. It will provide many benefits to the rural people. It will be easier to keep the village clean and sanitized,

livestock health will improve and farm yields will increase.

Government committed to doubling farmers income by 2022

To achieve this ambitious objective, the government is encouraging to adopt the ‘multi-dimensional seven-point’

strategy-

1. Emphasis on irrigation along with end to end solution on creation of resources for ‘More crop per drop’

2. ‘Provision of quality seeds and nutrients according to the soil quality of each farm.

3. Large investments in warehouses and cold chains to prevent Post-harvest losses.

4. Promotion of value addition through food processing.

5. Implementation of National Agricultural Markets and e-platforms (e-NAM) to eliminate shortcomings of all the

585 centers.

6. To mitigate the risk, introduction of crop insurance scheme at a lower cost.

7. Promotion of allied activities such as Dairy-Animal husbandry, Poultry, Bee-keeping, Medh Per Ped,

Horticulture, and Fisheries.

Maldives rejects India’s Milan naval exercise invite:

Maldives has declined New Delhi’s invitation to participate in the biennial naval exercise Milan. The biennial naval exercise, Milan, is being organized at the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The aim of the exercise is to expand regional cooperation and combat unlawful activities in critical sea lanes.

Project Swajal

Swajal pilot project has been launched at Village Bhikampura, Karauli, Rajasthan.

Swajal is a community owned drinking water programme for sustained drinking water supply.

Under the scheme, 90% of the project cost will be taken care by the Government and the remaining 10% of the

project cost will be contributed by the community. The Operations and management of the project will be taken

care by the local villagers.

National e-Governance Awards

National e-governance Awards were presented on the occasion of 21st National Conference on e-Governance.

The National e-Governance Awards recognize and promote excellence in implementation of e-Governance

initiatives taken by various government departments and also initiatives of public sector units and Non-

Government Institutions.

The Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), Government of India, along with the

Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology, Government of India in association with Government of

Telangana have organized the 21stNational Conference on e-Governance in Hyderabad, Telangana.

Theme: Technology for Accelerating Development.

National Science Day 2018

National Science Day is celebrated on 28th of February every year in order to commemorate the invention of the

Raman Effect in India by the Indian physicist, Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman on the same day in the year

1928.

For his great success in the field of science in India, Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman was awarded and honored

with the Nobel Prize in the Physics in the year 1930.

Theme: “Science and Technology for a Sustainable Future”.

The Raman Effect is a change in the wavelength of light that occurs when a light beam is deflected by molecules.

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Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)

The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has approved $1.5 billion in loans to India for infrastructure

projects in 2018. The funds are meant for investment in energy, roads and urban development projects. Of the

loans committed by the multilateral bank, around $200 million will be invested under the National Investment and

Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) framework.

The AIIB was established as a new multilateral financial institution aimed at providing “financial support for

infrastructure development and regional connectivity in Asia.” It was founded in October, 2014, and has its

headquarters in Beijing. Its goals are also to boost economic development in the region, create wealth, prove

infrastructure, and promote regional cooperation and partnership.

The value of AIIB’s authorized capital amounts to $100 billion, with almost $30 billion invested by China. India is

not only one of the founding members of AIIB but is also the 2nd largest shareholder in AIIB.

Aviation Multi Skill Development Centre (MSDC)

A first-of-its-kind Aviation Multi Skill Development Centre (MSDC), a CSR initiative of Airports Authority of India

(AAI) was inaugurated in Chandigarh.

The Centre has been set up in collaboration with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) and is

supported by the Aerospace and Aviation Sector Skill Council (AASSC) of India.

The course curriculum and assessments of the training have been designed by AASSC in accordance with

the National Skill Qualification Framework. The Centre will train about 2,400 youth and women in 8 aviation

job roles over the next 3 years.

NSDC: The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) is a one-of-its-kind, Public Private Partnership

(PPP) model in India, under the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE). It aims to promote

skill development by catalyzing creation of large, quality and for-profit vocational institutions.

January2018 Health Secretary launches the Allied Health Professionals Database Portal

The Secretary, Health and Family Welfare launched the Allied and Healthcare Professionals’ database portal, on

1st January 2018 as part of Ministry’s commitment to ensure better systems and frameworks for the healthcare

workforce in the country.

India enjoys a demographic dividend of more than 65% youth below the age of 35 years and the Government of India

is eager to provide the country’s youth a strong foundation for continued and sustainable growth.

The main aim of this portal is to make available all the details of various medical professionals under one roof.

Also, it will be a transparent system to track the details of the medical professionals.

The portal has a capacity of capturing more than 10 lakhs Allied and Healthcare Professionals’ data.

It will help the Government to track the number of professionals and streams of allied and healthcare

professions in the country.

It may further prove helpful in expediting the envisaged processes viz. licensing of professionals, workforce policy

planning, and bringing transparency in the system by maintaining standards of educational and clinical practice etc.

E-Pashudhan Haat

The government has launched e-Pashu Haat portal (www.epashuhaat.gov.in) for connecting breeders and

farmers of indigenous breeds.

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Aims and Objectives: E-Trading Market portal for livestock germplasm and additional related services it will connect

farmers with breeders - Central, State, Co-operative, Milk Federations, and private agencies. It is real time authentic

certified information on availability of germplasm.

Farmers can obtain information on location of quality indigenous germplasm in the form live animals, semen doses

and embryos. This portal is playing crucial role in development and conservation of indigenous breeds.

World Class Research Facilities

Government is focused on improving quality of education and research in Higher Education Institutions.Joint Research

Programmes are being taken with countries like USA, UK, Israel, Norway and New Zealand, Special Scheme for

Faculty Development to provide an opportunity to teachers to pursue academic/research activities, establishment of

Inter University Centres (IUCs) that provide state-of-the art equipments and facilities.

Government of India has introduced various schemes like Uchhatar Avishkar Yojana (UAY): To promote innovation in IITs addressing issues of manufacturing

industries;

Impacting Research, Innovation, and Technology (IMPRINT): To identify areas of immediate relevance to

society requiring innovation,

Setting up of Research Parks in IITs: Five new Research Parks at IIT Delhi, IIT Guwahati, IIT Kanpur, IIT Hyderabad,

and IISc Bangalore at a total cost of Rs.75.00 crore each have been approved by the Government.

Quality Improvement Programme (QIP): To upgrade the expertise and capabilities of the faculty members

of the degree and diploma level institutions in the country.

Margdarshan: Institutions of repute as a mentor within an existing facility to serve as the hub to guide and

disperse knowledge to and between technical institutions to encourage best practices.

SWAYAM: It is an indigenous On-line Education platform has been launched on 9th July 2017.

Through this platform courses in teachers training and other subjects both at the graduate and post-graduate

level are offered.

Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN): Govt. of India approved a new program titled Global

Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN) in Higher Education aimed at tapping the talent pool of scientists and

entrepreneurs, internationally to encourage their engagement with the institutes of Higher Education in India

so as to augment the country’s existing academic resources, accelerate the pace of quality reform, and elevate

India’s scientific and technological capacity to global excellence.

‘NARI’ for women empowerment – e-Samvad portal for NGOs and Civil

Societies

Minister of Women & Child Development, Smt Maneka Sanjay Gandhi inaugurated an online portal NARI NARI will provide information to women on issues affecting their lives. The portal will provide women citizens with easy access to information on government schemes and initiatives for women. Further to provide a platform for NGOs and Civil Societies to interact with the Ministry of Women & Child Development. This will help in formulation of effective policies and

measures for welfare of women and children.

Reducing Maternal Mortality ratio (MMR)

As per the latest Registrar General of India-Sample Registration System (RGI-SRS) Report (Special Bulletin on

Maternal Mortality in India 2011-13).

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The Maternal Mortality ratio (MMR) of India is 167 per 100,000 live births.

Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR): It is the annual number of female deaths per 100,000 live births from any cause

related to or aggravated by pregnancy or its management (excluding accidental or incidental causes).

Jal Marg Vikas Project on the Haldia-Varanasi stretch of National Waterway-1

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by the Prime Minister given its approval for implementation of

the Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) for capacity

augmentation of navigation on National Waterway- 1

(NW-1) at a cost of Rs 5369.18 crore with the

technical assistance and investment support of the

World Bank. The Project is expected to be

completed by March 2023.

States: Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, West

Bengal

One of the major problems for a commercially

viable and safe navigation on NW-1 is low depth

upstream of Farakka due to low discharges from

tributaries and difficult hydro morphological

characteristics of river Ganga.

Monsoon Mission

Under the National Monsoon Mission initiative, the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, Indian

National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad and National Centre for Medium Range Weather

Forecasting (NCMRWF), NOIDA have embarked upon to build a state-of-the-art coupled ocean-atmospheric

model for the following.

Improved prediction of monsoon rainfall on extended range to seasonal time scale (16 days to one season) and

Improved prediction of temperature, rainfall and extreme weather events on short to medium range time scale (up to

15 days) so that forecast skill gets quantitatively improved further for operational services of India Meteorological

Department (IMD).

For the first time, India Meteorological Department used the Monsoon Mission dynamical model to prepare operational

seasonal forecast of 2017 monsoon rainfall over India

Tata Memorial Centre launches first digital Online Oncology Tutorial

Smt Preeti Sudan, Secretary (HFW) today launched the country’s first digital Online Oncology

Tutorial Series designed by the Tata Memorial Center in collaboration with the Health Ministry.

The oncology tutorial series aim to train the doctors across the country to educate them in early detection, prevention,

palliation, rehabilitation and treatment of various cancers.

Landslide Risk Reduction and Management

The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has taken initiatives in the field of landslide risk reduction and management

through landslide susceptibility mapping in various scales in different parts of the country including North-Eastern

Region (NER) and Sikkim.

Pre-disaster studies:(multi-scale landslide susceptibility/hazard/risk mapping & conducting landslide awareness

programme); and

Post-disaster studies: (landslide inventory mapping and site specific detailed geological mapping, slope stability

analysis and landslide monitoring).

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On landslide remediation, GSI has carried out Site specific landslide study through detailed mapping (1:2000 scale)

at Sonapur landslide in Meghalaya; Martam Landslide, Rongpo Landslide, 9 mile landslide complex, Malten Landslide

etc.

The GSI study includes generation of field maps, categorization of hill slope in terms of landslide susceptibility,

preparation of landslide inventory database using high resolution remote sensing data, archival information and field

inputs, preparation of spatial database for geo-factors of landslides.

Council for Trade Development and Promotion

Shri Suresh Prabhu, Union Minister for Commerce and Industry will chair the 3rd meeting of the Council for Trade

Development and Promotion at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi on Monday, the 8th of January, 2018.

The Council for Trade Development and Promotion was constituted in July 2015 under the chairpersonship of the

Union Minister for Commerce and Industry, in pursuance to the provisions of Foreign Trade Policy statement

2015-20.

Central Water Commission

Central Water Commission has received Central Board of Irrigation and Power (CBIP) Special Recognition

Award 2018 for Excellence in Health & Safety of Large Dams.

The award has been given in recognition of the contribution made by the Central Water Commission (CWC) for

promoting the health and safety of large dams in India through the World Bank aided Dam Rehabilitation and

Improvement Project.

Dam RehabilitationAnd Improvement Project (DRIP): The Ministry of Water Resources (MoWR), Government

of India, with assistance from the World Bank, is implementing the (DRIP), which would be a six-year project. The

project envisaged the rehabilitation and improvement of about 250 dams within states namely Kerala, Madhya

Pradesh, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Uttarakhand (UNVNL) and Jharkhand (DVC) joined DRIP.

ASEAN India Pravasi Bharatiya

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas 2018 was celebrated the ASEAN-Indian partnership.

It was held in Singapore – which was considered as not only India’s gateway to the East but also is the heart of

ASEAN.

It was to highlight the “ancient human, maritime, cultural, commercial and religious links between India and

Southeast Asia” and to promote greater economic, cultural and diplomatic cooperation between the two regions.

Theme: “Ancient Route, New Journey: Diaspora in the Dynamic Asean-India Partnership.”

Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is celebrated every year on January 9 to mark the contribution of overseas Indian

community in the development of India. January 9 was chosen as the day to celebrate this occasion since it was

on this day in 1915 that Mahatma Gandhi, the greatest Pravasi, returned to India from South Africa, led India’s

freedom struggle and changed the lives of Indians forever.

This year marks the 25 years of ASEAN-Indian Partnership which is based on centuries-old cultural, religious and

human links, forged on an ancient route of commerce.

The Indian Diaspora is an important part of Southeast Asia’s diversity and a strong bridge between India and

ASEAN.

4th International Dharma-Dhamma Conference

It was held at Rajgir, Nalanda between 11 th and 13 th January, 2018

The Conference is being held in collaboration with the India Foundation, Ministry of External Affairs and the Vietnam

Buddhist University.

Theme “State and Social Order in Dharma-Dhamma Tradition”

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It aims to facilitate cross-pollination of ideas and foster harmony at the global level and also seeks to explore the

shared values of the dharmic traditions that may provide the guiding light to the world today and a vibrant sense of

interconnectedness.

Dharma signifies behaviors that are considered to be in accord with rta, the order that makes life and universe possible,

and includes duties, rights, laws, conduct, virtues and "right way of living". In Buddhism dharma means "cosmic law

and order" but is also applied to the teachings of the Buddha. In Buddhist philosophy, dhamma/dharma is also the

term for "phenomena". In Jainism dharma refers to the teachings of the Jinas and the body of doctrine pertaining to

the purification and moral transformation of human beings. For Sikhs, the word dharm means the "path of

righteousness".

The Central Government notifies the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2017

The Central Government notified the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2017 on 3rd January, 2018. The provisions of

this Amendment Act shall come into force on the date or dates as the Central Government may appoint by

notification(s) in the Official Gazette

A few provisions in the Amendment Act have important bearing on the working of the Insolvency and Bankruptcy

Code, 2016 (Code).

Amendments in relation to structuring, disclosure and compliance requirements for companies; Limitations on the

number of intermediary companies through which investments can be made in a company. Similarly, the Act limits

the number of layers of subsidiaries a company can have.

The Act requires an individual who has a beneficial interest in the shares of a company to disclose the same. The

Act also requires a group of persons who exercise beneficial control (above 25%) in a company to disclose such

interest.

The Act permits the appointment of members at the level of Joint Secretary to the quasi- judicial tribunal. Under

the Act, a technical member must be at least of the level of an Additional Secretary.

ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit

The ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit was held in New Delhi to praise the 25th commemoration of the foundation

of sectoral discourse between two sides under the topic of “Shared Values, Common Destiny”.

It issued joint explanation titled Delhi Declaration after the whole session concentrating on counter-psychological

oppression, personality security, military participation, and reciprocal money related help.

Key Highlights of Delhi Declaration Strengthening relations: Called for reinforcing and extending ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership for shared

advantage, over the entire range of political-security, monetary, socio-social and improvement collaboration.

Terrorism: Called for fortifying and expanding ASEAN-India Strategic Partnership for shared preferred standpoint,

over the whole scope of political-security, money related, socio-social and change joint effort.

Cyber-security: Strengthen cooperation on cyber-security capacity building and policy coordination, including

through supporting the implementation of ASEAN Cybersecurity Cooperation Strategy.

Transnational crimes: It called for fortifying collaboration to battle other transnational violations, including

individuals carrying, trafficking in people, unlawful medication trafficking, cybercrime, and theft and furnished

burglary against ships.

Political and Security Cooperation: Reaffirm significance of keeping up and advancing peace, dependability,

sea wellbeing and security, flexibility of route and overflight in the locale.

It calls for other legal employments of oceans and to advance serene resolutions of debate, as per all around

perceived standards of global law, including 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Economic Ties: The two sides reaffirmed to work to additionally fortify ASEAN-India financial relations, including

through full use and viable execution of ASEAN-India Free Trade Area. They additionally called for quick

conclusion to complete and commonly advantageous Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in

2018 to additionally exchange ties. They likewise anticipate build up ASEAN-India Trade and Investment Center.

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Physical and digital connectivity: Reaffirmed their commitment to enhance physical and digital connectivity in

line with Master Plan on ASEAN Connectivity 2025 and ASEAN ICT Masterplan (AIM) 2020 by availing $1-billion

line of credit (LoC) announced by India. They will also work towards encouraging early completion of India-

Myanmar-Thailand (IMT) Trilateral Highway Project and extend it to Cambodia, Lao PDR and Vietnam.

Conservation and sustainable use of marine resources in Indian and Pacific Oceans and address threats to

these resources including illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, loss of coastal ecosystems and the adverse

impacts of pollution, , marine debris and ocean acidification.

Maritime cooperation: It emphasised need to promote maritime transport cooperation and encourage potential

private sector participation in development of seaports, maritime logistics network and maritime services in order

to create greater efficient linkages and continue discussions on these priority areas.

MSMEs: It calls for promotion of stable and sustainable growth for MSMEs, including through technology transfer,

as well as enhancing capacity building, technical assistance, access to innovation and opportunities to integrate

into global and regional value chains were agreed upon.

Peaceful exploitation of outer space: India and ASEAN countries will continue to collaborate in peaceful

exploitation of outer space, through implementation of the ASEAN-India Space Cooperation Programme. It will

include launching of satellites, sustainable exploitation of ground, sea, atmospheric and digital resources for

equitable development of region.

Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) It is a regional intergovernmental organisation comprising ten Southeast Asian countries which promotes Pan-

Asianism and intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic, political, security, military, educational and

socio-cultural integration amongst its members and other Asian countries.

Since its formation on 8 August 1967 by Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, the

organisation’s membership has expanded to include Brunei, Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar and Vietnam.

Its principal aims include accelerating economic growth, social progress, and sociocultural evolution among

its members, alongside the protection of regional stability and the provision of a mechanism for member countries to

resolve differences peacefully.

ASEAN – India Commemorative Summit It was an international meeting which India hosted to mark the 20th year anniversary of the ASEAN – India dialogue

relations and 10-years of its summit level partnership. The summit was held from 20 to 21 December 2012 in New

Delhi, India. The India-ASEAN relationship was elevated to a “strategic” partnership at the 2012 meeting.

Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities in the Election Process

Flagging off the 8th National Voters Day Celebrations scheduled to be held on 25th January 2018, Election

Commission of India (ECI) hosted a one-day International Conference on the subject ‘Inclusion of Persons with

Disabilities in the Election Process’ in New Delhi.

Aanchal Thakur wins India’s first international medal in skiing

21-year old Aanchal Thakur created history by becoming the first Indian to win an international medal in skiing.

The Manali resident grabbed a Bronze medal in the slalom race category at Alpine Ejder 3200 Cup organised by

Skiing’s international governing body, Federation International de Ski (FIS) at the Palandoken Ski Centre, in Erzurum

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Cabinet approves amendments in FDI policy

The Union Cabinet given its approval to a number of

amendments in the FDI Policy to liberalise and simplify the FDI

policy so as to provide ease of doing business in the country. It

will lead to larger FDI inflows contributing to growth of

investment, income and employment.

100% FDI under automatic route for Single Brand Retail Trading

100% FDI under automatic route in Construction Development

Foreign airlines allowed to invest up to 49% under approval route

in Air India

FIIs/FPIs allowed to invest in Power Exchanges through primary

market

Definition of ‘medical devices’ amended in the FDI Policy.

Matunga Railway Limca Book of Records 2018

Matunga Railway Station has become the first station in India which has all women staff managing the operations of

the stations. Ladies staff across all departments viz. operating, commercial, RPF, etc. are posted at Matunga Railway

Station to make it first of its kind station on Railways.

Mumbai Division of Central Railways have posted a total of 41 women staffers, under the supervision of station

manager Mrs. Mamta Kulkarni. Incidentally Mamta Kulkarni is first ASM to be recruited on Mumbai Division of Central

Railway in 1992.

Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act

Provisional attachment has been made in more than 900 cases of properties under the Prohibition of Benami

Property Transactions Act (the ‘Benami Act’), which came into force w.e.f 1st November, 2016. These attachments

include plots of land, flats, shops, jewellery, vehicles, deposits in bank accounts, fixed deposits etc. The value of

properties under attachment is more than Rs. 3,500 crore including immovable properties of more than Rs. 2,900

crore.

The first act against benami properties ws passed in 1988 as the Prohibition of Benami Property Transactions Act,

1988. The PBPT Act defines benami transactions, prohibits them and further provides that violation of the PBPT Act

is punishable with imprisonment and fine. The PBPT Act prohibits recovery of the property held benami from benamidar

by the real owner. Properties held benami are liable for confiscation by the Government without payment of

compensation.

Smart Freight Operation Optimisation & Real Time Information (SFOORTI)

Application

In a digital initiative to help plan traffic flows and optimize freight operations, the Ministry of Railways has launched

Smart Freight Operation Optimisation & Real Time Information (SFOORTI) App for Freight Managers which provides

features for monitoring and managing freight business using Geographic Information System (GIS) Views and

Dashboard.

PSLV successfully launches 31 satellites in a single flight

ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, in its forty second flight, successfully launched the 710 kg Cartosat-2 Series

Remote Sensing Satellite along with 30 co-passenger satellites from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota.

This flight is designated as PSLV-C40.

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Cartosat-2 is an Earth observation satellite in a sun-synchronous orbit and the second of the Cartosat series of

satellites. The satellite was built, launched and maintained by the Indian Space Research Organisation.

Cartosat-2 is a remote sensing satellite and it is similar in configuration to earlier satellites in the series with the

objective of providing high-resolution scene specific spot imagery.

Saksham-2018

Saksham (Sanrakshan Kshamta Mahotsav) is an annual flagship event of Petroleum Conservation Research

Association (PCRA) under the aegis of Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas, Govt. of India , with active involvement

of the Oil & Gas PSUs along with other stakeholders like State Governments, for creating focused attention on fuel

conservation through people centric activities and to sensitize the masses about the conservation and efficient use of

petroleum products leading to better health and environment.

First Agri-commodity Options Contracts in Guar Seed

National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange Limited (NCDEX) launched India’s first Agri-Options on guar seed

futures in the presence of SEBI, WDRA, Industry Associations, Government Officials and FPO members.

NCDEX Agri-options are an important tool which will contribute to the Prime Minister’s vision of doubling the farmers’

incomes by 2022. It Guar Seed aim to provide farmers better engagement in the commodity markets.

NCDEX also launched Mandi.com, a mobile app for farmers where they can learn more about Options and the

commodity markets.

Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav-2018

The 7th edition of ‘Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav-2018’ was inaugurated at Bangaluru, Karnataka on 14thJanuary 2018.

First Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav was held in Delhi in 2015. The goal is to reconnect the new generation with our

cultural heritage and stimulate the spirit of nationality and pride for our 'Unity in Diversity.' ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha

Bharat’.

CIPAM-DIPP launches IP competition for college & university students

Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), in collaboration with ASSOCHAM and ERICSSON India, has launched a one

of its kind Intellectual Property (IP) Competition ‘IPrism’ for college and university students.

This competition invites students to submit films on piracy & counterfeiting fewer than two categories of 30 and 60

seconds. Another category in the competition is for a mobile gaming app on IP.

The competition aims to foster a culture of innovation and creativity in the younger generation. It will provide young

creators a unique opportunity to see their creations recognized on a national platform.

Indo-Israeli initiative

On January 17, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu accompanied by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi visit

the CoE at Vadrad to look the successful Plug Nursery farming.

Indian and Israel set up under the Indo-Israel Agriculture Work Plan for exchange of advanced farming technology,

the Centre of Excellence (CoE) for Protected Cultivation and Precision Farming on Vegetables at Vadrad village near

Prantij in Sabarkantha district is providing the training and guidance in controlled farming techniques using net houses

and seedlings developed in plug nurseries.

Raksha Mantri takes to Skies in an IAF Su-30 MKI

At Air Force Station Jodhpur , Nirmala Sitharaman is the first woman Defence Minister of India to fly a sortie in an IAF

Su-30 MKI fighter aircraft.

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A.P.J. Abdul Kalam - When then President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam flew in a Su-30 in June 2003, he became the first

head of state in India to fly in a fighter aircraft. He was 74 years old at the time.

George Fernandes -In June 2003, then Defence Minister George Fernandes put on the flying suit and took off in

a Su-30 fighter jet from Lohegaon Air Force Station near Pune. He was 73 years old at the time.

Pratibha Devisingh Patil - Then President Pratibha Patil flew in a Su-30 in November 2009 from the Indian Air

Force Base in Lohegaon.

Cyber & Information Security (CIS) Division

The Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) and the Cyber Police Force will be set up under the newly created

Cyber & Information Security (CIS) Division of the Union Ministry of Home Affairs.

Simplified ‘Make-II’: Major Steps Towards ‘Make in India’ in Defence

Production

As a major boost to ‘Make in India’ in Defence, the Defence Acquisition Council, chaired by Raksha Mantri Smt Nirmala

Sitharaman, in its meeting on 16 January 2018, has cleared a simplified ‘Make-II’ procedure which will enable greater

participation of industry in acquisition of defence equipment.

This simplified ‘Make-II’ procedure will amend the existing ‘Make Procedure’ in Defence Procurement Procedure

(DPP)-2016.

The industry can suggest projects, especially among those items which are currently being imported. Start-ups or

individuals can also suggest proposals. Service Headquarters will also list out a series of projects which can be

undertaken as ‘Make-II’ projects under the new procedure.

Successful Fifth Flight Test of Agni-5 Ballistic Missile

Long Range Surface-to-Surface Ballistic Missile, Agni-5, was successfully flight tested for its full range on 18th January,

2018 at 0953 hrs from Dr Abdul Kalam Island, Odisha. This was the fifth test of the Missile and the third consecutive

one from a canister on a road mobile launcher. All the five missions have been successful.

Agni-V is an intercontinental ballistic missile developed by the Defence Research and Development

Organisation (DRDO) of India.Agni V is part of the Agni series of missiles, one of the missile systems under the

original Integrated Guided Missile Development Program.

Functioning of Internal Security Division and Narcotics Control Bureau

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has further liberalised the Arms Rules to boost “Make in India” manufacturing

policy of the Government as also to promote employment generation in the field of manufacturing of arms and

ammunition. A notification in this regard has been issued on 27th October, 2017 by MHA.

International Solar Alliance Forum at World Future Energy Summit, Abu

Dhabi

On receipt of 15 ratifications, the International Solar Alliance (ISA) Framework Agreement entered into force on the

6th December, 2017 thereby making ISA a de jure treaty based international intergovernmental organisation. So

far(January 2018) 19 countries have ratified and 48 countries have signed the ISA Framework Agreement.

The ISA Ministerial was attended by seven Energy Ministers of ISA Member countries.

The Paris Declaration establishes ISA as an alliance dedicated to the promotion of solar energy among its member

countries.

The ISA’s major objectives include global deployment of over 1,000GW of solar generation capacity and mobilisation

of investment of over US$ 1000 billion into solar energy by 2030.

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National CSR Data Portal & Corporate Data Portal

Union Minister for Finance and Corporate Affairs launched the National CSR Data Portal & Corporate Data Portal.

The initiative is a significant step towards driving accountability and transparency for corporate India.

By making the portals accessible to general public, it will ensure high level of compliance and also in institutionalising

and consolidating the CSR activities.

Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA)

The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan has been launched by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare

(MoHFW), Government of India.

Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan envisages to improve the quality and coverage of Antenatal Care (ANC)

including diagnostics and counselling services as part of the Reproductive Maternal Neonatal Child and Adolescent

Health (RMNCH+A) Strategy.

International Dam Safety Conference

India hosted the International Dam Safety Conference - 2018 at Thiruvananthapuram on January 23-24, 2018.

Central Water Commission is organizing the event in association with Kerala Water Resources Department

(KWRD), Kerala State Electricity Board, National Institute of Technology Calicut and College of Engineering,

Trivandrum.

These conference are organized as an annual event under the Dam Safety Rehabilitation and Improvement Project

(DRIP) project being run by the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.

New plan for rejuvenation of major river water systems

The new strategy takes into account the entire river basin, which is contributing its flow to the particular river stretch

for conservation

Present strategy limited only to tackling pollution load from domestic wastewater and regulation of industrial

pollution

The new approach Water management and environment management are taken together for implementation to

restore the lost ecology of the polluted stretches of the rivers.

The Central Pollution Control Board had identified 302 river stretches on 275 rivers in the country as polluted,

based on Bio-Chemical Oxygen Demand, a critical parameter of water quality.

BHARAT PARV

The ‘Bharat Parv’ event is being organized by the Government of India at the Red Fort, Delhi from 26th to

31st January, 2018 as part of the Republic Day 2018 celebrations.

To generate a patriotic mood, promote the rich cultural diversity of the country and to ensure wider participation of

the general public.

Theme “Naya Bharat Hum Karke Rahenge”

Maitreyi Yatra

The Maitreyi Yatra is an exchange programme for schoolchildren as part of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)

between the J&K government and the Ministry of Human Resource Development. During summer, students from Delhi

schools are likely to be taken to Kashmir. It was to integrate the youth of Jammu and Kashmir to the rest of the country

and to promote brotherhood and harmony.

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The Management Information System (MIS) portal

The Ministry of Women and Child Development in collaboration with National Informatics Centre (NIC), has developed

a Management Information System (MIS) portal for submitting applications/estimates by NGOs for carrying out

Anganwadi Services (ICDS) Training through AWTCs/MLTCs.

Government Process Re-engineering (GPR)

On the occasion of 69th Republic Day, the Ministry of Corporate Affairs is launched the following Government

Process Re-engineering (GPR) initiatives for making the Incorporation Process Speedy, Smooth, Simple and

reducing the number of procedures involved for starting a Business.

Zero fee for incorporation of all companies with authorized capital upto Rs. 10 lakh.

The “Government Process Re-engineering” (GPR) course is designed to equip the participants with necessary

skills and knowledge to enhance operational efficiency in administration and service delivery.

It will lead the government departments in undertaking government process re-engineering initiative to optimise

the government processes and service delivery model.

Padma Awardees 2018

The Padma Awards are one of the highest civilian honours of India announced annually on the eve of Republic Day.

The award seeks to recognize achievements in all fields of activities or disciplines where an element of public service

is involved.

The Padma Awards are conferred on the recommendations made by the Padma Awards Committee, which is

constituted by the Prime Minister every year. The nomination process is open to the public. Even self-nomination can

be made.

The Government of India instituted two civilian awards-Bharat Ratna & Padma Vibhushan in 1954. The latter had three

classes namely Pahela Varg, Dusra Varg and Tisra Varg. These were subsequently renamed as Padma Vibhushan,

Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri vide Presidential Notification issued on January 8, 1955.

The award is given in three categories, namely, Padma Vibhushan for exceptional and distinguished service; Padma

Bhushan for distinguished service of a high order; and Padma Shri for distinguished service.

This year 85 recipients (total 89 Padma awardees) have been selected for the prestigious awards including two duo

cases. This includes 3 Padma Vibhushan, 9 Padma Bhushan and 73 Padma Shri awards. Fourteen of the awardees

are women, while 16 persons are foreigners and three are being awarded posthumous.

The three Padma Vibhushan awardees are: 1. Ilayaraja – Art (Music)

2. Ghulam Mustafa Khan – Art (Music)

3. Parameswaran Parameswaran – Literature & Education

December 2017 National Nutrition Mission

The Union Cabinet approved setting up of National Nutrition Mission (NNM) with a three-year budget of Rs.9046.17

crore commencing from 2017-18.

The NNM, as an apex body, will monitor, supervise, fix targets and guide the nutrition related interventions across

the Ministries.

The proposal consists of mapping of various Schemes contributing towards addressing malnutrition introducing a

very robust convergence mechanism ICT based Real Time Monitoring system incentivizing States/UTs for meeting

the targets incentivizing Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) for using IT based tools eliminating registers used by AWWs,

introducing measurement of height of children at the Anganwadi Centres (AWCs), Social Audits, setting-up

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Nutrition Resource Centres, involving masses through Jan Andolan for their participation on nutrition through

various activities, among others.

More than 10 crore people will be benefitted by this programme. All the States and districts will be covered in a

phased manner i.e. 315 districts in 2017-18, 235 districts in 2018-19 and remaining districts in 2019-20.

NNM targets to reduce stunting, under-nutrition, anemia (among young children, women and adolescent girls) and

reduce low birth weight by 2%, 2%, 3% and 2% per annum respectively. Although the target to reduce Stunting is

atleast 2% p.a., Mission would strive to achieve reduction in Stunting from 38.4% (NFHS-4) to 25% by

2022 (Mission 25 by 2022).

National Nutrition Strategy

National Nutrition Strategy (NNS) has been published by NITI Aayog in 2017. The salient features of the National

Nutrition Strategy are as follows:

Vision 2022: “KuposhanMukt Bharat”

Objectives and targets 3 point percentage / year reduction in underweight prevalence in children (0-3 years) by 2022 from NFHS-4

levels

1/3rd reduction in anaemia in children, adolescent & Women of Reproductive Age (WRA)

Schemes and programmes to prevent malnutrition Promotion of appropriate Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) practices that include early initiation of

breastfeeding and exclusive breastfeeding till 6 months of age through ASHA worker and health care provider

at health facilities. In order to promote and support breastfeeding, Government has implemented “MAA-

Mothers’ Absolute Affection” programmeto improve breastfeeding coverage and appropriate breastfeeding

practices in the country. A greater emphasis is laid on capacity building of the health workers on lactation

management at both community and facility levels and 360 degree IEC campaign to create awareness

regarding breastfeeding.

Under the Rashtriya Bal SwasthyaKaryakram (RBSK), systematic efforts are undertaken to detect nutrition

deficiency among children and adolescents respectively.

Mission Indradhanush: Launched on 25th December, 2014 with the objective to ensure high coverage of

children with all vaccines in identified districts with the goal of reaching the unreached to achieve 90% full

immunization coverage in India.

Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK) provides child health screening for 30 common health

conditions by expanding the reach of mobile health teams at block level and establishment of District Early

Intervention Centres (DEICs) at the districts for early interventions services.

‘India Awarded Certificate of Commendation for Its Effort to Combat Illegal

Wildlife Trade”

India has been awarded with the Certificate of Commendation for its exemplary enforcement action in its regional

and global effort to combat illegal wildlife trade. “The award was given to Wildlife Crime Control Bureau by the

Secretary General of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora) at

Geneva, Switzerland

The award has been presented to WCCB for its efforts in conducting and coordinating a species-specific wildlife

enforcement Operation, codenamed “Operation Save Kurma”.

Operation Save Kurma” was conducted in the country by the WCCB to combat the proliferating illegal trade in live

turtles and its parts from the country to destinations abroad.

‘Operation Save Kurma’ conducted from December 15, 2016 to January 30, 2017, approximately 16, 000 live

turtles/tortoises were seized and released back into the wild. He said that 55 suspects involved in the illegal trade

were also arrested.

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National Strategic Plan (2017-24) and Mission “SAMPARK”: On World AIDS

Day

About 11.5 lakh People Living with HIV (PLHIVs) are taking free ART through 536 ART centres in the country. Still

there is a big challenge to trace those who are Left to Follow Up and are to be brought under ART services. With

this aim, the Mission “SAMPARK” has been launched, the “Community Based Testing” to take HIV testing closer

to those in need, will help in fast-tracking the identification of all who are HIV positive and subsequently linking to

ART programme.

The National Strategic Plan 2017-24 will pave a roadmap not only for achieving the target of 90:90:90 but also

strive along with partners towards fast track strategy of ending the AIDS epidemic by 2030. “The next seven years

are, therefore, critical and investments made now will result in substantive gains towards ‘End of AIDS’,”. One of

our major focus area is the prevention of dual infection i.e. Mother to Child transmission of HIV and Mother to Child

transmission of Syphilis.

The political commitment of Government for an all-inclusive AIDS response is proved by the fact that the long

awaited HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control, Act, 2017 has been enacted.

This landmark Act is people- centric, progressive in nature and brings in legal sanction to address the

discrimination faced by People Living with HIV at various settings.

BIMSTEC Member States discuss draft text of Coastal Shipping Agreement

Member States of BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation) met to

discuss modalities for promoting coastal shipping in the region. In this first meeting of the Working Group,

member countries discussed the draft text of BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement drafted by the Ministry of

Shipping, Government of India.

To facilitate coastal shipping in the region, thereby giving a boost to trade between the member countries

The agreement would apply to coastal shipping, that is shipping within 20 nautical miles of the coastline.

The requirements for movement of vessels in this part of the sea are different from standard requirements of deep

sea shipping.

Coastal ship movements require smaller vessels and lesser draft, and therefore, involve lower costs.

Once the agreement is ratified by the member countries and becomes operational, a lot of cargo movement

between the member countries can be done through the cost effective, environment friendly and faster coastal

shipping route.

Resource Efficiency- the key to a sustainable future

NITI Aayog and EU Delegation to India release the First ever Resource Efficiency (RE) Strategy for India

The Resource Efficiency Strategy includes the core-action plan for the period 2017-2018 and medium-term action

plan for 2017 – 2020

Using the resources efficiently to produce more while utilizing less has been one of the tested and trusted ways

for a sustainable future.

It not only ensures the security of the resources but also minimizes the environment impact. In order to ensure that

the two ends meet, NITI Aayog in collaboration with the European Union delegation to India and the Confederation

of Indian Industries, CII has released the first ever Strategy on Resource Efficiency for India which also includes

an action plan for promoting resource efficiency in India.

India re-elected as Member of International Maritime Council for two years

(2018-19)

India has been re-elected to the Council of the International Maritime Organization [IMO] under Category “B” at

the 30th session of the Assembly of the IMO.

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The IMO Council consists of 40-member countries. In Categories “A” and “B” there are 10 members each and in

Category “C” 20 members, who are elected by the IMO Assembly.

IMO Council plays a crucial role to play in deciding various important matters within the mandate of the IMO, in

relation to the global shipping industry, including its work programme strategy and budget.

India has been one of the earliest members of the IMO, having ratified its Convention and joined it as a member-

state in the year 1959.

India has had the privilege of being elected to and serving the Council of the IMO, ever since it started functioning,

and till date, except for two years for the period 1983-1984.

India is a party to 34 IMO Conventions and protocols and is currently in the advanced stage of ratifying Ballast

Water Convention and Bunker Convention.

India has already deposited with the ILO, instrument of ratification of the Seafarers’ Identity Documents Convention

(revised), 2003 and Maritime Labour Convention, 2006.

22nd AHWP conference

Ministry of Health and Family Welfare inaugurated the 22nd conference of Asian Harmonization Working Party

(AHWP).

The key objective of the event is to develop and recommend approaches for the convergence and harmonization

of medical device regulations in Asia and beyond and to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and expertise

amongst regulators and the industry.

Asian Harmonization Working Party (AHWP) was established in 1999 as a voluntary non-profit organization of the

30 national regulators of member countries and industry members with a goal to promote regulatory harmonization

on medical device regulations in Asia and other regions in accordance with the guidance issued by International

Medical Device Regulators Forums (IMDRF).

3rd United Nations Environment assembly in Nairobi

The UN Environment Assembly has the universal membership of all 193 UN Member States and the full involvement

of UN organizations, specialized agencies, inter-governmental organizations, civil society and the private sector.

In bringing together these varied communities, the Assembly provides a groundbreaking platform for leadership on

global environmental policy.

“Towards a Pollution free planet” is theme of 3rd United Nations Environment assembly in Nairobi.

India will Host World Environment Day Celebration in 2018

India is pursuing ambitious plans and expects action from other developed and developing countries to fulfill their

historical responsibilities on the basis of equity and Common But Differentiated Responsibilities, as per the

commitments made under the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and other development agenda.

Indian Navy Op Sahayam For Cyclone Ockhi

Southern Naval Command continued ‘OP Sahayam’, an Indian Navy exercise for undertaking Search and Rescue

(SAR) and providing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster relief (HADR) material support, over Southeast Arabian

Sea and L& M islands in the aftermath of Very Severe Cyclonic Storm ‘OCKHI’.

Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) in India’s National Strategy

‘Arogya 2017’

It has been jointly organized by Ministry of AYUSH and Ministry of Commerce and Industry of Government of India

including Pharmexcil in partnership with FICCI to showcase the strength and scientific valuation of traditional system

of medicine. Nearly 1500 delegates from India and 60 countries are participating in ‘Arogya 2017’.

Arogya 2017’ is the first of its kind International Conference which has been organized in India.

Aroyga 2017’ is a comprehensive exhibition cum conference on Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddhha,

Sowa Rigpa, Homoeopathy and wellness.

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Border Protection Grid (BPG)

Border Protection Grid (BPG) is a multi-pronged and foolproof mechanism to secure border. The grid will

comprise of various elements namely physical barriers, non-physical barriers, surveillance system, Intelligence

agencies, State Police, BSF and other State and Central agencies.

BPG will be supervised by a State Level Standing Committee under the Chairmanship of respective Chief

Secretaries.

Border security is important to facilitate legitimate trade and commerce between the countries.

Secure borders are also necessary to prevent entry of illegal migrants some of whom have links with extremist

groups for furthering anti-national activities with ulterior motives and posing threat to internal security.

The Indo-Bangladesh Border covering 5 states of India including Assam, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Tripura and

West Bengal is 4096 km long. So far in 3006 km border security infrastructure of fence, roads, floodlights and

border out posts (BOPs) are in place and works in the remaining 1090 km are yet to be started. Out of this, 684

km will be secured with fence and the related infrastructure, and the balance 406 km with the non-physical barriers.

Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill 2017

The Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill, 2017 (FRDI Bill), was introduced in the Lok Sabha on

August 11, 2017.

The Bill would provide for a comprehensive resolution framework for specified financial sector entities to deal with

bankruptcy situation in banks, insurance companies and financial sector entities.

Each depositor of banks can be only protected up to a limit of Rs. 1 lakh by the guarantee of the Deposit

Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC). Remaining deposits (i.e. beyond Rs. 1 lakh of deposits in a

bank) do not have any deposit protection guarantee and are treated, at par with claims of unsecured creditors as of

now.

The Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill, 2017 seeks to give comfort to the consumers of financial service

providers in financial distress.

It also aims to inculcate discipline among financial service providers in the event of financial crises by limiting the use

of public money to bail out distressed entities.

E-Courts Project

The e Committee, of the Supreme Court of India in association with the Department of Justice (DoJ) of the Government

of India recently held a National Conference on e- courts project in New Delhi.

Specific targets set under the Project include: computerization of all the courts (around 20400) and DLSA and TLSC;

WAN and cloud connectivity in 3500 court complexes; full Installation and use of Video Conferencing facility at 3000

Court Complexes and 1150 prisons; charting out key identified citizen services like electronic filing, daily orders,

delivery of decrees, online case status in all the district courts etc.

BODHI PARVA: BIMSTEC Festival of Buddhist Heritage

India is hosting the 2017 edition of “Bodhi Parva BIMSTEC Festival of Buddhist Heritage” in New Delhi as part of

celebrations of 20th Anniversary of BIMSTEC. The festival is organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) along

with Teamwork Arts.

BIMSTEC Buddhist Heritage Festival” aims to look at the different aspects of Buddhism. BIMSTEC has a deep connect

with Buddhism, which originated in South Asia and then travelled and rooted itself in South East Asia.

Buddhism constitutes a bridge between South and South-East Asia.

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NIC-CERT

Minister of Law & Justice and Electronics & Information Technology inaugurated the “NIC-CERT”, a setup of National

Informatics Centre, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology.

For creating a comprehensive framework that integrates world class security components and inbuilt threat intelligence

for detection, prevention and incident response.

The gathered intelligence assimilated with the knowledge of the open web would give the CERT the ability prevents

and predict attacks.

Govt launches initiative to implement labour room guidelines

The government has launched “LaQshya – Labour Room Quality Improvement Initiative, a Safe Delivery Mobile

Application for health workers who manage normal and complicated deliveries in the peripheral areas.

LaQshya is mobile app for health workers who manage normal and complicated deliveries in the peripheral

areas.

The goal of this initiative is to reduce preventable maternal and new-born mortality, morbidity and

stillbirths associated with the care around delivery in Labour room and Maternity OT and ensure

respectful maternity care.

It aims to improve the quality of care that is being provided to the pregnant mother in the Labour Room and

Maternity Operation Theatres, thereby preventing the undesirable adverse outcomes associated with

childbirth.

ASEAN-India Connectivity Summit

The ASEAN India Connectivity Summit (AICS) on the theme:

Powering Digital and Physical Linkages for Asia in the

21st Century.

The AICS aims to accelerate existing connectivity prospects,

identify issues of concern, evolve suitable policy

recommendations and develop strategies to enhance

economic, industrial and trade relations between ASEAN and

India.

Its focus areas are infrastructure, roadways, shipping, digital,

finance, energy and aviation.

27th National Energy Conservation Day to be celebrated on 14th December,

2017

President of India given National Energy Conservation Awards to industries that have demonstrated measurable

reductions in their energy use as part of the National Energy Conservation Awards Programme.

The Energy Conservation Day is organized on 14th December each year by Bureau of Energy Efficiency

(BEE),under Ministry of Power, with an aim to demonstrate India’s achievements in energy efficiency and

conservation, while working for its ambition of holistic development as part of the nation’s overall effort towards

climate change mitigation.

As part of its awareness outreach, BEE recognizes and encourages endeavours of industries in reducing

energy consumption by felicitating them with National Energy Conservation Awards.

BEE also awards prizes to the national winners of the annual National Painting Competition on Energy

Conservation.

In order to realize its development goals, India’s energy demand is expected to double between 2013 and

2030, to approximately 1500 million tonnes of oil equivalent. The mission of BEE is to assist in developing

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policies and strategies that will help reduce this energy demand by promoting widespread adoption of energy

efficiency measures.

The Government of India set up Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) on 1st March 2002 under the provisions of the

Energy Conservation Act, 2001.

Nation Two Crucial Bridges in Eastern Arunachal Pradesh

Two crucial bridges in eastern Arunachal Pradesh have been dedicated to the nation. The bridges have

been built by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

Functioning under the control of the Ministry of Defence since 2015, the BRO is engaged in road construction to

provide connectivity to difficult and inaccessible regions in the border areas of the country.

Injupani Bridge: A 140 metre long bridge on Roing-Koronu-Paya road, which is a part of Trans Arunachal

Highway. The completion of the Injupani Bridge would provide an uninterrupted access between Roing&Tezu, both

important district HQs in Arunachal Pradesh.

Deopani/Eze Bridge:300-metre-long pre-stressed concrete balanced cantilever bridge over the Eze river at Roing

in Arunachal Pradesh.

Completion of these crucial bridges, which would provide round the year connectivity to the strategic

Dibang valley bordering China.

SANKALP Project

A Financing Agreement for IBRD loan of USD 250 million (equivalent) for the “Skills Acquisition and Knowledge

Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP) Project” signed with the World Bank.

The Financing Agreement was signed in New Delhi by Joint Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs on behalf

of Government of India and Country Director, World Bank (India) on behalf of the World Bank.

To enhance institutional mechanisms for skills development and increase access to quality and market-relevant

training for the work force.

Exercise EKUVERIN-2017

It is a joint military exercise between India and Maldives. The eighth edition of the exercise is being held in Belagavi,

Karnataka.

The bilateral annual exercise is a 14-day joint military training between the Indian Army and the Maldives National

Defence Force (MNDF), which is held alternatively in India and Maldives since 2009. The seventh edition of the

exercise was held at Kadhdhoo, Lammu Atoll, Maldives in December, 2016.

The exercise will be an opportunity for the two armies to activate the Joint Operations Centre at Belagavi.

The focus of the exercise is to acquaint both armies with each other’s operating procedures in the backdrop of a

counter-insurgency or counter-terrorist operations in an urban or semi-urban environment under the United Nations

(UN) Charter, with an overall aim to enhance interoperability between the two armies.

‘Ekuverin’ means ‘friends’ in the Maldivian language

Sakhi One Stop Centres

The Minister of Women and Child Development recently inaugurated the Two Day National Workshop on Role of Sakhi

One Stop Centres in Strengthening Multi Sectoral Response to Violence in New Delhi.

Around 400 Sakhi- One Stop Centre Functionaries and nodal officials from State Department of Women and Child

Development from 33 States/UTs across the country, are participating in the workshop.

To provide integrated support and assistance to women affected by violence, both in private and public spaces

under one roof.

To facilitate immediate, emergency and non – emergency access to a range of services including medical, legal,

psychological and counselling support under one roof to fight against any forms of violence against women.

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Popularly known as Sakhi, the scheme is being implemented since 1st April 2015. The scheme aims to facilitate access

to an integrated range of services including medical aid, police assistance, legal aid/case management, psychosocial

counselling, and temporary support services to women affected by violence.

Under the scheme, it has been envisaged that One Stop Centres (OSC) would be set up across the country in a

phased manner.

Tuitial Hydroelectric Power Project

The Tuirial HEPP has been constructed as a Central Sector Project and implemented by North Eastern Electric

Power Corporation (NEEPCO), under the administrative control of the Ministry of Power, Government of India.

The 60 MW Tuirial Hydro Electric Power Project (HEPP) has been formally dedicated to the Nation.

The Project is the biggest power project located in the State of Mizoram and will feed the entire energy to be

generated to the home State, which will facilitate all-round development of the State and achieving Government

of India’s ambitious and flagship Mission ‘24×7 Affordable Clean Power for All’.

The Tuirial HEPP has been constructed as a Central Sector Project and implemented by North Eastern Electric

Power Corporation (NEEPCO), under the administrative control of the Ministry of Power, Government of India.

International Training Centre for Operational Oceanography

The Union Cabinet has approved the establishment of International Training Centre for Operational Oceanography,

as a Category-2 Centre (C2C) of UNESCO, in Hyderabad.

The purpose of this Agreement is to establish a training centre towards development of capacity for the countries on

the Indian Ocean Rim (IOR), African countries bordering the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, small island countries under

the framework of UNESCO.

The establishment of UNESCO Category-2 Centre will provide an opportunity for India to emerge as a

leading country in the Indian Ocean. This will also help India to forge cooperation and improve engagement

among the counties of the Indian Ocean, including South Asian and African states bordering the Indian Ocean.

The establishment of C2C is also expected to increase ancillary development leading to employment generation

in India.

North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS)

The Union Cabinet has approved the introduction of new Central Sector Scheme of “North East Special Infrastructure

Development Scheme” (NESIDS) from 2017-18 with 100% funding from the Central Government to fill up the gaps in

creation of infrastructure in specified sectors till March, 2020.

The assets to be created under the new scheme of NESIDS will not only strengthen health care and education facilities

in the region but will also encourage tourism thereby the employment opportunities for local youth. The scheme will

act as a catalyst in overall development of the region in the years to come.

Sendai Framework

National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) is conducting the first national-level Training of Trainers

programme to sensitise various Central Ministries and Departments on utilisation of Sendai Monitor for developing

action plans for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR).

The programme is being organised by the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration with

the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction-Global Education and Training Institute (UNISDR-GETI).

In June 2016, India became one of the first countries to align its National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP) with

the SFDRR, which clearly identifies regional, national and local targets along with short, medium and long-term

timelines.

The Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR), 2015-2030, is the first major agreement of the post-

2015 development agenda and identifies targets and priority actions towards reducing disaster risks and

implementing development that is both resilient and sustainable.

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The Sendai Framework is a 15-year, voluntary, non-binding agreement which recognizes that the State has the

primary role to reduce disaster risk but that responsibility should be shared with other stakeholders including local

government, the private sector and other stakeholders.

India is the second largest producer of horticultural crops and fruits in the

World

Research and development projects in horticulture crops have yielded encouraging results, as a result, the production

of horticulture crops have been more than food grains irrespective of adverse climatic conditions. After China, India

is the second largest producer of horticultural crops and fruits.

Government established a Central Citrus Research Institute (CCRI) in Nagpur in 1985 with an objective to develop

research and necessary techniques for citrus fruits and in 1986 it was upgraded to National Research Centre for Citrus.

Increase in threshold limit for DPP

The threshold limit for defence offsets was fixed at Rs.300 Crore in 2008. Keeping in view enhancement in cost of

procurement on account of offsets in such cases and difficulties faced by smaller OEMs in executing offset obligations,

the threshold limit has been enhanced to Rs.2000 Crore in DPP-2016.

A new category of acquisition has been introduced – Buy Indian (IDDM), to promote indigenous design

development and manufacturing. Under this category, indigenously designed equipment with minimum of 40%

indigenous content (IC), or equipment with 60% IC will be considered for acquisition. This category will be the

most preferred acquisition category and one rank above the ‘Buy (Indian)’ category.

‘Buy (Indian)’ category of acquisition requires a minimum IC of 40% (as compared to 30% in the previous DPP)

and in ‘Buy and Make (Indian)’ category, minimum IC of 50% will be required in Make portion of the

scheme. Flexibility has been given to AoN according authority to change percentage of IC.

The DPP 2016 has been framed based on the recommendations of the Dhirendra Singh Committee that was appointed

in May 2015 to review the DPP 2013.

Global Hunger Index

As per 2017 Global Hunger Index (GHI) Report, published by the International Food Policy Research Institute

(IFPRI), India ranks 100 out 119 countries.

The Global Hunger Index is a tool designed to comprehensively measure and track hunger at the global, regional,

and national levels. The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) calculates GHI scores each year to

assess progress and setbacks in combating hunger.

To capture the multidimensional nature of hunger, GHI scores are based on four indicators as follows

Undernourishment; Child wasting; Child stunting and Child mortality.

India ranked 60th most innovative country

India currently ranks 60th out of 127 countries on the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2017 as compared to 66th rank on

GII 2016.

The Global Innovation Index provides detailed metrics about the innovation performance of 127 countries and

economies around the world. Its 81 indicators explore a broad vision of innovation, including political environment,

education, infrastructure and business sophistication.

India Innovation Index

In order to make India an innovation- driven economy, NITI Aayog, Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion

(DIPP) and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) together launched a mega initiative “India Innovation Index”

that will rank states on Innovations through country’s first online innovation index portal that will capture data on

innovation from all Indian states on innovation and regularly update it in real time.

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The Government is also promoting research parks (RPs) and technology business incubators (TBIs) which

would nurture and promote the innovative ideas till they become commercial ventures.

The projects for promoting research and innovation like the IMPRINT and UchhatarAvishkar Yojana (UAY) have

brought focused attention of the scientific community on the need for promoting innovation.

Use of Space Technology in Agriculture

The Department of Agriculture, Cooperation & Farmers Welfare is proposing a new integrated programme, called

National Programme on use of Space Technology for Agriculture (NPSTA), envisaging integrated use of Space

and Geospatial Tools for Mapping, Monitoring and Management of Agriculture.

The programme will have four sub-programmes catering to various themes viz. Crop Assessment & Monitoring;

Agricultural Resources Management; Disaster Monitoring and Mitigation and Satellite Communication and

Navigation Applications.

All the current running programmes, such as FASAL (for crop forecasting), NADAMS (for drought

assessment), CHAMAN (for horticultural assessment and development), KISAN (for crop insurance) and

Crop Intensification planning, will be subsumed under this proposed programme.

Reforms in Agriculture Sector

The Government is aware of the roadmap outlined by NITI Aayog for reforms in agriculture sector and doubling farmers

income by 2022.

The Roadmap presents a quantitative framework for doubling farmers’ income which has identified seven sources of

growth.

1. increase in productivity of crops.

2. increase in production of livestock.

3. improvement in efficiency of input use (cost saving).

4. increase in crop intensity.

5. diversification towards high value crops.

6. improved price realization by farmers.

7. shift of cultivators to non-farm jobs

Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)

More than 3100 ‘Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya JanaushadhiPariyojana (PMBJP) Kendras’ are functional in 33

States/UTs of the country.

Incentives are provided to PMBJP Kendras run by private entrepreneurs/ pharmacists/ NGOs/ Charitable

organizations that are linked with BPPI’s software will get incentive upto Rs. 2.5 lakhs. This will be given @ 15%

of monthly sales subject to a ceiling of Rs. 10,000/ per month and in case of north eastern states, naxal affected

areas and tribal areas, ceiling of Rs. 15,000/- per month up to a total limit of Rs. 2.5 lakhs.

To bring down the healthcare budget of every citizen of India through providing Quality Generic Medicines at

Affordable Prices.

The National Health Policy, 2017 (NHP, 2017)

It seeks to reach everyone in a comprehensive integrated way to move towards wellness. It aims at achieving

universal health coverage and delivering quality health care services to all at affordable cost.

The policy envisages as its goal the attainment of the highest possible level of health and well-being for all at all

ages, through a preventive and promotive health care orientation in all developmental policies, and universal

access to good quality health care services without anyone having to face financial hardship as a consequence.

This would be achieved through increasing access, improving quality and lowering the cost of healthcare delivery.

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Improve health status through concerted policy action in all sectors and expand preventive, promotive, curative,

palliative and rehabilitative services provided through the public health sector with focus on quality.

Life Expectancy and healthy life

Increase Life Expectancy at birth from 67.5 to 70 by 2025.

Establish regular tracking of Disability Adjusted Life Years (DALY) Index as a measure of burden of disease

and its trends by major categories by 2022.

Reduction of TFR to 2.1 at national and sub-national level by 2025.

Mortality by Age and/ or cause

Reduce Under Five Mortality to 23 by 2025 and MMR from current levels to 100 by 2020.

Reduce infant mortality rate to 28 by 2019.

Reduce neo-natal mortality to 16 and still birth rate to “single digit” by 2025.

Reduction of disease prevalence/ incidence

Achieve global target of 2020 which is also termed as target of 90:90:90, for HIV/AIDS i.e, - 90% of all people

living with HIV know their HIV status, - 90% of all people diagnosed with HIV infection receive sustained

antiretroviral therapy and 90% of all people receiving antiretroviral therapy will have viral suppression.

Achieve and maintain elimination status of Leprosy by 2018, Kala-Azar by 2017 and Lymphatic Filariasis in

endemic pockets by 2017.

To achieve and maintain a cure rate of >85% in new sputum positive patients for TB and reduce incidence

of new cases, to reach elimination status by 2025.

To reduce the prevalence of blindness to 0.25/ 1000 by 2025 and disease burden by one third from current

levels.

To reduce premature mortality from cardiovascular diseases, cancer, diabetes or chronic respiratory

diseases by 25% by 2025.

Indian Forest Act

The government had come out with an ordinance to amend the Indian Forest Act, 1927 in this regard. This bill would

replace this ordinance. Prior to issuance of the ordinance, the definition of tree in the Act included palm, bamboo,

brushwood and cane.

The bill seeks to exempt bamboo grown in non-forest areas from definition of tree, thereby dispensing with the

requirement of felling/transit permit for its economic use. However, bamboo grown in the forest areas shall continue

to be governed by the provisions of Indian Forest Act, 1927.

A major objective of the amendment is to promote cultivation of bamboo in non-forest areas to achieve twin

objectives of increasing the income of farmers and also increasing the green cover of the country.

Bamboo, though, taxonomically a grass, was legally defined as a tree under the Indian Forest Act, 1927. Before

this amendment, the felling and transit of bamboo grown on forest as well non-forest land attracted the

provisions of the Indian Forest Act, 1927 (IFA, 1927). This was a major impediment for bamboo cultivation by

farmers on non-forest land.

Solar Mission (Aditya-L1)

The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is planning to launch the first solar mission, Aditya-L1.

Aditya-L1 mission is aimed at studying the Sun from an orbit around the Sun-Earth Lagrangian point 1 (L1) which

is about 1.5 million kilometres from the Earth. It would carry seven payloads to observe the photosphere,

chromosphere and the outermost layers of the Sun, the corona in different wavebands.

Aditya-L1 can provide observations on the corona and in addition can provide observations on the solar

Chromosphere using the UV payload and, on the flares, using the X-ray payloads. The particle detectors and

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the magnetometer payload can provide information on charged particles and the magnetic field reaching the halo orbit

around L1.

SHAKTI POLICY

The Coal India Limited (CIL) Board cleared the decks for signing of Fuel Supply Agreement (FSA), for supply of

coal to auction long-term coal linkages to power companies.

This policy will award fuel supply agreements to coal plants already holding letters of assurance (LoAs). It is issued

to new consumers on being approved by the appropriate authority, based on recommendation of a committee

constituted Specific terms & conditions of the LOA to be complied with within a stipulated time period for being

eligible to enter into FSA for commencing coal supply.

Thermal plants holding LoAs will be eligible to sign fuel supply pacts under the new policy after ensuring that

all the conditions are met.

Coal linkages would be awarded to state-owned power distribution companies (DISCOMS). These, in turn,

would assign linkages to State or central power generation companies via allocation, and Private units

through auction.

Project ‘Mausam’

39 countries identifie under Project ‘Mausam’

Project ‘Mausam’ is the initiative of Ministry of Culture to be implemented by the Archaeological Survey of India

(ASI) as the nodal agency with research support of the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) and

National Museum as associate bodies.

This project aims to explore the multi-faceted Indian Ocean ‘world’ – collating archaeological and historical

research in order to document the diversity of cultural, commercial and religious interactions in the Indian Ocean.

The main objective of the project is to inscribe places and sites identified under Project Mausam as trans-national

nomination for inscription on UNESCO’s World Heritage List.

Exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr

Indian Naval Ships Trikand and Teg are deployed to Oman for bilateral exercise ‘Naseem Al Bahr’ or ‘Sea

Breeze’. This exercise is the 11th edition and has been a biennial feature since 1993.

India has an ancient maritime tradition and maritime interaction with Oman dates back to over 4000 years B.C.

Bilateral relation between Indian and Oman were formally established with signing of a 1953 Indo-Oman Treaty of

friendship, Navigation and Commerce, a first between India and an Arab country.

Since then, Naval exercises have contributed to strengthening of bilateral ties between India and Sultanate of

Oman. The first exercise Indian Navy with Royal Navy of Oman was conducted in 1993 and this year marks 24

years of Indian Navy -Royal Navy of Oman bilateral exercises.

The signing of an MoU on Defence Cooperation in Dec 2005 and subsequent establishment of the Joint Military

Cooperation in Mar 2006 has set the foundation for increased defence cooperation. The naval cooperation

between the countries has gradually increased in scope and scale.

Strengthening of Maritime Security

Towards achieving better synergy amongst friendly littoral navies and to promote discussions on contemporary

maritime issues, the Goa Maritime Conclave (GMC) was conducted at Naval War College (NWC), Goa from 01

November to 02 November 2017.

Theme: “Addressing Regional Maritime Challenges”

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India’s vision of SAGAR is to safeguard our mainland and islands, defend our interests, ensure a safe secure and

stable Indian Ocean, and make available our capabilities to others.

Rs. 52,000 Crore Capital infused in PSBs under Indradhanush Plan

The Government has so far infused capital of Rs. 51,858 crore in PSBs.

Mission Indradhanush: It is a 7 pronged plan launched by Government of India to resolve issues faced by Public

Sector banks. It aims to revamp their functioning to enable them to compete with Private Sector banks.

Appointments - separation of posts of CEO and MD to check excess concentration of power and smoothen the

functioning of banks; also induction of talent from private sector (recommendation of P J Nayak Committee)

Bank Boards Bureau - will replace the appointments board of PSBs.

It will advise the banks on how to raise funds and how to go ahead with mergers and acquisitions.

It will also hold bad assets of public sector banks.

Prevention of Torture Bill

The Prevention of Torture Bill introduced by the Minister for Home Affairs makes torture a punishable offence. The

Statement of Objects and Reasons of the Bill states that the Bill is being introduced to ratify the UN

Convention against Torture of 1975.

India is a signatory of the Convention but has not enacted a law on torture which would enable it to ratify the

Convention.

The Bill defines torture and prescribes conditions under which torture is punishable.

The Bill defines torture as “grievous hurt”, or danger to life, limb and health.

The definition of torture is inconsistent with the definition of torture in the Convention against Torture, requires

the intention of the accused to be proved, does not include mental pain or suffering, does not include some

acts which may constitute torture.

The Bill dilutes existing laws by imposing a time limit of six months and requiring prior government sanction for

trying those accused of torture. Existing laws do not have such requirements.

There is no independent authority to investigate complaints of torture, and no provision for granting compensation

to torture victims has been made.

Digital Employment Exchange

The National Career Service (NCS) Project is a Mission Mode Project of the Ministry of Labour & Employment for

transformation of the National Employment Service to provide a variety of employment related services like career

counselling, vocational guidance, information on skill development courses etc. through a web-based portal.

The NCS services are available online on the National Career Service portal (www.ncs.gov.in) supported by

multilingual Call Centre/Helpdesk and is accessible by all users.

The NCS service can also be availed directly through the Employment Exchanges, Career Centres, Common

Service Centres etc.

In addition to the above procedure, advertisement of vacancies are to be mandatorily placed at the NCS portal

which has been developed primarily to connect the opportunities with the aspiration of youth.

Rail and Transportation University at Vadodara

The Union Cabinet today approved the Ministry of Railways’ initiative to set up the first ever National Rail and

Transport University (NRTU) in Vadodara to skill its human resources and build capability.

A not-for-profit Company under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013 will be created by the Ministry of Railways

which shall be the Managing Company of the proposed university.

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The university plans to use latest pedagogy and technology applications (satellite based tracking, Radio

Frequency Identification and Artificial Intelligence) to improve on-the-job performance and productivity.

Close collaboration with the Indian Railways will ensure that the stakeholders have access to Railways’ facilities,

which will work as ‘live labs’ and they will be able to work on solving real life problems.

Swarn Project in Railways

The Ministry of Railways has decided to launch “Project Swarn” with the objective of significantly improving the

passenger experience across 9 dimensions which include coach interiors, toilets, onboard cleanliness, staff behavior,

catering, linen, punctuality, security, on-board entertainment.

The various types of railways running within our country are Duronto Express: Duronto Express, the non-stop trains which eventually running faster than Rajdhani Express

between state capitals & major cities.

Rajdhani Express: The Rajdhani Express, the full AC train which connects all major cities to our capital New

Delhi. It is running at over 150 km per hour.

Shatabdi and Jan Shatabdi Express: These are only chair car trains which connect inter cities in the

neighbouring states.

Garib Rath Express: These are trains which has AC 3 tier facilities at the lower cost in compare to different train

in the same class.

Superfast Express: These trains are running more over 55 km per hours and have few stops in their travelling

routes.

Express and Mail Train: These are common kinds of trains which have more stops than Express trains in India

but have lower fare than it.

Fast Passenger and Passenger Train: These common trains have lowest fares and have sitting, sleeper class

facilities. These trains stop at almost every station.

Suburban Trains: The Suburban trains are running in the major cities in India like Kolkata, Mumbai, Delhi,

Chennai etc. These trains have only sitting facilities and fare starts at only Rs. 5.00. The Mumbai Suburban trains

have 1st Class facilities.

Development of Ramayana and Krishna Circuits

Ramayana and Krishna Circuit are among fifteen thematic circuits identified for development under the Swadesh

Darshan scheme of Ministry of Tourism.

The Ministry has initially identified following destinations for development under Ramayana and Krishna Circuit:

Ramyana Circuit: Ayodhya, Nandigram, Shringverpur&Chitrakoot (Uttar Pradesh), Sitamarhi, Buxar&Darbhanga

(Bihar), Chitrakoot (Madhya Pradesh), Mahendragiri (Odisha), Jagdalpur (Chattisgarh), Nashik & Nagpur

(Maharashtra), Bhadrachalam (Telangana), Hampi (Karnataka) and Rameshwaram (Tamil Nadu).

Krishna Circuit: Dwarka (Gujarat); Nathdwara, Jaipur & Sikar (Rajasthan); Kurukshetra (Haryana), Mathura,

Vrindavan, Gokul, Barsana, Nandgaon& Govardhan (Uttar Pradesh) and Puri (Odisha).

ISRO and NASA Collaboration

ISRO and Jet Propulsion Laboratory (JPL)/ NASA are jointly working on the development of Dual Frequency (L&S

band) Synthetic Aperture Radar Imaging Satellite named as NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR).

The L-band SAR is being developed by JPL/NASA, while ISRO is developing S-band SAR.

The L & S band microwave data obtained from this satellite will be useful for variety of application, which

include natural resources mapping & monitoring; Estimating agricultural biomass over full duration of crop

cycle; Assessing soil moisture; Monitoring of floods and oil slicks; Coastal erosion, Coastline changes & variation

of winds in coastal waters; Assessment of mangroves; Surface deformation studies, Ice sheet collapses &

dynamics etc.

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The data obtained from NISAR mission is not meant for building climate resilience. However, the data acquired

from this mission will be useful in developing certain applications, which include –

Identifying crevasses in the glaciers hidden by fresh snow, where human movement takes place,

Identifying the snowpack parameters as an input in Avalanche forecasts,

Studying Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF) hazards, and

Identifying inundated area due to floods/ cyclones.

These applications could help in taking measures to minimise loss of human lives.

As per the information received, Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) under Ministry of Earth Sciences

(MoES) has been working in tandem with National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA, USA)

for development of high resolution seasonal and long-term climate forecasts through Monsoon Mission and Centre

for Climate Change Research (CCCR) Programmes.

“Skills Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement Operation (Strive)

Project.”

A Financing Agreement for IDA Credit of USD 125 million (equivalent) for the “Skills Strengthening for Industrial

Value Enhancement Operation (STRIVE) Project” was signed by the Government of India with the World Bank.

To improve access to quality and market-driven vocational training provided in it is and apprenticeships.

The result areas for the project include Improved Performance of Industrial Training Institutes; Increased

Capacities of State Governments to Support Industrial Training Institutes and Apprenticeship Training;

Improved Teaching and Learning; and Improved and Broadened Apprenticeship Training.

Sustainable Rooftop Implementation for Solar Transfiguration of India

(SRISTI)

With a view to accelerate the deployment of rooftop solar power in the country, the Ministry of New and Renewable

Energy (MNRE) has prepared a concept note on ‘Sustainable Rooftop Implementation for Solar Transfiguration

of India (SRISTI)

Government has set a target of reaching 100 GW of solar power installed capacity in the country by 2022, of which 40

GW is targeted through solar rooftop.

The concept, once approved, shall serve as the basis of revised scheme of MNRE for solar rooftop in Phase-II

The scheme will integrate discoms as an implementing agency in Phase-II of the rooftop solar scheme

The Ministry is implementing Grid Connected Rooftop Solar (RTS) Power Programme in which subsidy/incentives

are being provided for residential, institutional, social and Government sector. States/UTs have also taken

conducive policy and regulatory measures for promotion of solar rooftop.

The proposed scheme aims to achieve a national target of solar rooftop of 40 GW till 2021-2022.

It is proposed that Central Financial Assistance will be provided only for installation of rooftop solar plants

in residential sectors.

Scheme for Capacity Building in Textiles Sector (SCBTS)

Union Cabinet of Central government approves Scheme for Capacity Building in Textile Sector (SCBTS).

Subsequently, this scheme will provide skill development training to provide jobs in organized textile and other

related sectors.

The scheme will have National Skill Qualification Framework (NSQF) compliant training courses with funding

norms as per the Common Norms notified by Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).

To provide demand driven, placement-oriented skilling programme to incentivize the efforts of the industry in

creating jobs in the organized textile and related sectors; to promote skilling and skill up-gradation in the traditional

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sectors through respective Sectoral Divisions/organizations of Ministry of Textiles; and to provide livelihood to all

sections of the society across the country.

Darpan Launched

The Minister of Communications Shri Manoj Sinha today launched DARPAN – “Digital Advancement of Rural Post

Office for A New India”

IT modernization project with an outlay of Rs. 1400 Crore is to provide a low power technology solution to each

Branch Postmaster (BPM)

It will enable each of approximately 1.29 Lakhs Branch Post Offices (BOs) to improve the level of services being

offered to rural customers across all the states

43,171 Branch Post Offices have migrated under the “DARPAN”

Blue Flag Beach Certificate

To enhance standards of cleanliness, upkeep, and basic amenities at beaches, a pilot project for beach cleanup

and development was launched

It also strives for the “Blue Flag” Certification for such identified beaches

Under the pilot programme, each of the coastal State/UT was requested to identify/nominate a beach, to be funded

through the ongoing Integrated Coastal Management Programme

All the coastal States have nominated the pilot beaches in their receptive territories including Goa

Formal nominations are, however, awaited from the coastal UTs viz., Daman & Diu, Puducherry, Lakshadweep

and Andaman & Nicobar”

Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)

Government has launched the ‘Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)’ to provide social security during

old age and to protect elderly persons aged 60 and above against a future fall in their interest income due to

uncertain market conditions.

The scheme enables old age income security for senior citizens through provision of assured pension/return linked

to the subscription amount based on government guarantee to Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC).

The scheme provides an assured return of 8% per annum for 10 years.

The differential return, i.e. the difference between return generated by LIC and the assured return of 8% per annum

would be borne by Government of India as subsidy on an annual basis.

Ganga Gram Project

The Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation (MDWS) launched ‘Ganga Gram’ – a project for sanitation based

integrated development of all 4470 villages along the River Ganga.

To develop model village, that will exhibit itself as comprehensive and harmonious package of economic, historic,

cultural and sanitized unit, on banks of Ganga, which is self –sustaining. Promoting brand “Ganga” in its handicraft,

organic farm produce and tourism will be other spin offs.

States rank 50000 Gram Panchayats under Mission Antyodaya

In partnership with State Governments, Department of Rural Development has completed the ranking of 50,000 Gram

Panchayats on parameters of physical infrastructure, human development and economic activities.

Other relevant data with regard to household deprivations as per Socio Economic Census, physical

infrastructure as per the Census 2011 and the updated status of other selected villages are also available in

the public domain.

This facilitates identification of gaps in a quest for Poverty Free Gram Panchayats.

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Mission Antyodaya is a convergence framework for measurable effective outcomes on parameters that transform lives

and livelihoods.

Defence of Andaman & Nicobar Islands Exercise

Defence of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Exercise (DANX) was conducted under the aegis of Andaman & Nicobar

Command. The five day exercise started on 20 Nov 2017 and culminated on 24 Nov 2017.

to practice & validate procedures and drills of all the Command forces aimed at defending Andaman & Nicobar

Islands. Accretional forces from the main land including fighters, Special Forces, Naval ships and heavy lift

transport aircraft participated in the exercise.

Insurance cover to Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers

(AWHs)

The Govt. of India has provided insurance cover to Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs) in

association with the Life Insurance Corporation of India.

The AWWs and AWHs in the age group of 18-50 years are covered under Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima

Yojana (PMJJBY)

2 lakhs is payable on member’s death due to any reason;

Those in the age group of 18-70 years are covered under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY).

electronic-Human Resource Management System (e-HRMS)

The recently central government launched the electronic-Human Resource Management System (e-HRMS). It

was launched during the observance of Good Governance Day by the Ministry of Personnel, Public

Grievances and Pensions.

The eHRMS application was to facilitate the proper monitoring, manpower planning, recruitments, Postings,

Promotion, Transfer based on employee skill set, service history which was earlier being done manually, leads to

wastage of Government resources, and time that too without fruitful results which created lack of faith in

Government system.

National Informatics Centre, Himachal Pradesh developed “eHRMS”, which brought a breakthrough in

managing Human resource in Government efficiently and effectively. “Manav Sampada” was not only the

solution to manpower planning but its integration with other e-Governance applications extended its ambit to

various other Government G2G, G2E and G2C services

Pencil Portal to Eliminate Child Labour

Government has developed an online portal PENCIL (Platform for Effective Enforcement for No Child Labour)

which was launched on 26.9.2017

To provide a mechanism for both enforcement of the provisions of Child & Adolescent Labour (Prohibition &

Regulation) Act, 1986 and effective implementation of the National Child Labour Project (NCLP) Scheme for

rehabilitation of child & adolescent labour.

The main components of PENCIL portal are complaint corner, child & adolescent labour tracking system, NCLP

and State Resource Centre which are connected with the Ministry of Labour & Employment.

Methanol economy

A Combined meeting of the four task forces on Methanol was held under the chairmanship of Member, NITI Aayog,

Dr. V.K. Saraswat in New Delhi.

Experts in the Methanol Task Force opined that in collaboration with various agencies, academia and industry the

objectives of Methanol production and upscaling are feasible based on availability of the resources and technology.

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The four task forces were set up six months ago and since then a series of meetings and deliberations have taken

place to explore and give a push to methanol economy in the country by upscaling the production of Methanol,

India can reduce its crude oil import bill substantially.

Methanol has emerged as a clean, cheaper, safer and pollution free energy option which can be used for

transportation fuels and cooking fuel.

India has the potential to undertake the production of Methanol from high ash coal using indigenous technology

with the help of industry.

Methanol is an alternative fuel for internal combustion and other engines, either in combination with gasoline or

directly ("neat"). It is used in racing cars in many countries.

Today, industrial methanol is produced in a catalytic process directly from carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide,

and hydrogen.

NHAI Creates National Highways Investment Promotion Cell (NHIPC)

The National Highways Authority of India has created a National Highways Investment Promotion Cell (NHIPC) for

attracting domestic and foreign investment for highways projects

The primary focus of NHIPC will be to promote foreign and domestic investment in road infrastructure.

The cell will focus on engaging with global institution investors, construction companies, developers and fund

managers for building investor participation in road infrastructure projects.

Majuli Island in Assam

Recently union government laid the foundation stone of protection work of Majuli Island from floods and erosion and

construction of Brahamputra Board Complex.

Brahmaputra Board under Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation was

entrusted the work of protection of Majuli Island from floods and erosion in 2004.

To address the issues of erosion in vulnerable reaches and reclaim more land by pro-siltation and other measures

in the east-west reach length of about 80 km on south bank, a DPR was formulated for “Protection of Majuli Island

from flood and erosion of river Brahmaputra” as per the recommendations of the Standing Committee of Experts

for Majuli Island and Technical Advisory Committee of Brahmaputra Board.

The word Majuli is claimed to be derived from the word ‘MAJULI’ meaning an area surrounded by water.

Majuli Island is the nerve centre of Vaishnavite culture developed during the unique Vaishnava Satra system

founded by the great saint SrimantaSankardeva in the 15th century. It is the cultural heritage centre of Vaishnavite

culture of Assam.

Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana

Government of India (GOI) has approved a new Central Sector Scheme – Pradhan Mantri Kisan SAMPADA Yojana

(Scheme for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-Processing Clusters) with an allocation of Rs.

6,000 crore for the period 2016-20 coterminous with the 14th Finance Commission cycle. The scheme will be

implemented by Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI)

PM Kisan SAMPADA Yojana is a comprehensive package which will result in creation of modern infrastructure

with efficient supply chain management from farm gate to retail outlet.

It will not only provide a big boost to the growth of food processing sector in the country but also help in providing

better process to farmers and is a big step towards doubling of farmers income, creating huge employment

opportunities especially in the rural areas, reducing wastage of agricultural produce, increasing the processing

level and enhancing the export of the processed foods.

With a view to promote Food Processing Industries in the country, the Government has approved the umbrella

Central Sector Scheme “PRADHAN MANTRI KISAN SAMPADA YOJANA” with and allocation of Rs 6,000 Crore

for the period coterminous with the 14th Finance Commission cycle.

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Regional Project to Tackle Stubble Burning

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has approved a regional project on ‘Climate Resilience

Building among Farmers through Crop Residue Management’ under the National Adaptation Fund for

Climate Change (NAFCC).

The first phase of the project has been approved at a cost of approximately Rs. 100 Crore for the States of Punjab,

Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The project will leverage approximately three times the approved amount

with contribution from the States as well as farmers.

The project not only aims to mitigate climate change impacts and enhance adaptive capacity, but will also counter

the adverse environmental impacts that arise from burning.

The National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC) was established in August, 2015 to meet the cost of

adaptation to climate change for the State and Union Territories of India that are particularly vulnerable to the

adverse effects of climate change.

November 2017 EESL launched ‘Creating and Sustaining Markets for Energy Efficiency’ project

Global Environment Facility (GEF) has now partnered with Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), under

Ministry of Power, for the project ‘Creating and Sustaining Markets for Energy Efficiency’.

The project will receive a composite funding of $454 million comprised of the GEF grant of $20 million and co-

financing of $434 million in the form of loans and equity, including a $200 million loan from the Asian Development

Bank (ADB).

The EERF mechanism will support the ‘proof of concept’ investments for the new technologies of super-

efficient ceiling fans, tri-generation technologies & smart grid-applications and ultimately scaling up energy

efficiency financing and programme development to help cover initial investment costs of identified energy

efficiency programmes like street lighting, domestic lighting, five-star rated ceiling fans and agricultural

pumps, in the country.

This unique model will help in addressing the upfront risks of new technologies. Further, the accrued

savings from these technologies can then be used to finance additional projects, which would allow capital

to revolve as a sustainable funding mechanism.

The GEF project further brings together many technical and financing partners including United

Nations which aims to mitigate 60 million tons of CO2 eq (carbon dioxide equivalent), that will enable a

total direct energy savings of 38.3 million GJ by 2022 and 137.5 million GJ by 2032.

The funding announcement was made at the launch of the GEF-6 fund which supports two projects –

‘Creating Markets for Energy Efficiency’ and ‘District Energy in Cities.

The Global Environment Facility (GEF) was established on the eve of the 1992 Rio Earth Summit to help tackle

our planet’s most pressing environmental problems.

Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) is a joint venture of four National Public Sector Undertakings –

NTPC Limited, Power Finance Corporation Limited, Rural Electrification Corporation Limited and POWERGRID

Corporation of India Limited, set up under Ministry of Power, Government of India.

Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP): World’s largest street light replacement programme

Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All(UJALA): World’s largest zero-subsidy domestic LED bulb programme

World’s largest Agricultural Demand Side Management programme (AgDSM).

The National Council for Teacher Education Act, 1993

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for introduction of a Bill in Parliament to amend the National Council

for Teacher Education Act, 1993, namely the National Council for Teacher Education (Amendment) Act,

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2017 to grant retrospective recognition to the Central/State/Universities who are found to be conducting teacher

education courses without NCTE permission.

The amendment seeks to grant retrospective recognition to the Central/State/Union Territory funded

Institutions/Universities conducting Teacher Education Courses without NCTE recognition till the academic

year 2017-2018.

The amendment will make students studying in these Institutions/Universities, or already passed out from here,

eligible for employment as a teacher. With a view to achieve above mentioned benefits, Deptt. of School

Education & Literacy, Ministry of Human Resource Development has brought about this amendment.

All institutions running Teacher Education Courses such as B.Ed. and D.El.Ed. have to obtain recognition from

the National Council for Teacher Education under section 14 of the NCTE Act. Further, the courses of such

recognised Institutions/Universities have to be permitted under section 15, of the NCTE Act.

The NCTE Act, 1993 came into force on 1st July, 1995 and is applicable throughout the country, except the State

of Jammu and Kashmir.

World Food India 2017

A mega-event World Food India 2017 in the New Delhi from 1st to 3rd November, 2017. The three day-international

mega food event which have Germany, Japan and Denmark as the Partner Countries, in addition to Italy and

Netherlands as the Focus Countries.

India is expected to attract an investment of $10 billion in food processing sector and generate 1 million jobs in the

next 3 years.

The event, organised by Food Processing Industries (FPI) ministry, aims to transform the country's food economy

and realize the vision of doubling of farmers’ income by establishing India as a preferred investment destination

and sourcing hub for the global food processing industry

There were also host sessions including one on “'One Nation, One Food Law - an enabling regulatory environment

for investment in the food sector”. The event's objective is also to strengthen India’s position as a Global Food

Factory and make the country 'food secure'.

The FPI ministry and the FSSAI, the apex Regulatory body for Food Safety in India, had launched a new tool

called ‘the Food Regulatory Portal.’ Planned as a single interface for food businesses to cater to both domestic

operations and food imports, the portal is expected to be a game changer for effective and transparent

implementation of the food safety laws in the country. Aiming to create an enabling environment for businesses to

operate, the portal is strategically aligned with Government’s mission of 'One Nation, One Food Law.

Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY)

To make farming a remunerative profession, the government approved changes to ongoing central

scheme Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) with a focus on value chain, post-harvest infrastructure and

agri-entrepreneur development, among others.

Now, the scheme has been rebranded as RKVY-Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied

sector Rejuvenation (RAFTAAR) to be implemented for three years till 2019-20.

RKVY is a continuing scheme under implementation from XI Five Year Plan.

RKVY – RAFTAAR scheme will incentivize States in enhancing more allocation to Agriculture and Allied

Sectors.

It will provide considerable flexibility and autonomy to states in planning and executing programmes for

investment in agriculture and allied sectors.

RKVY-RAFTAAR funds would be provided to the States as 60:40 grants between Centre and States (90:10 for

North Eastern States and Himalayan States).

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7th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable in Bangkok

The 7th Asian Ministerial Energy Roundtable (AMER7) took place in Bangkok, Thailand from 1-3 November

2017.

The Government of Thailand hosted this prestigious biennial event, which is a key feature of the global energy

dialogue promoted under the neutral banner of the International Energy Forum.

In AMER7 Ministers not only considered the benefits of embracing energy efficiency measures along the

entire energy value chain, but also discussed the practical implications that energy transition pathways

may have for a healthy and stable development of oil and gas markets.

India is the current Chair of the IEF which is the largest inter-governmental organisation in the field of oil

and gas comprising 72 member countries, accounting for 90% of global supply and demand of oil and

gas. Members include developing, developed, OPEC, Non-OPEC and G20 countries. 18 of the G20 countries

are members of IEF.

Coming to India, our gas uptake is less 6.5% of India’s primary energy basket against a global average of

more than 24%. Government of India has envisioned to increase the share of natural gas in India’s energy mix

to 15% by 2030. India is currently the world’s fourth-largest importer of LNG, behind Japan, South Korea and

China. India is developing a Natural Gas Trading Exchange where both imported LNG and domestically

produced gas can be traded.

Indo – Kazakhstan Joint Exercise “PRABAL DOSTYK 2017”

A fourteen-day joint training exercise “PRABAL DOSTYK – 2017” between the Indian Army and the Kazakhstan Army

commenced in November 2017 with the Opening Ceremony at Bakloh, Himachal Pradesh. The joint exercise is aimed

at enhancing the military ties between the two countries as also at achieving interoperability between the two armies.

The training contingents comprise of platoon strength from the 11th Gorkha Rifles of the Indian Army and a similar

strength of the Kazakhstan Army.

48th World Standards Day

Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Department of Consumer Affairs working on bringing

Hallmarking regulations under the new BIS Act 2016.

“Standards Make Cities Smarter” organized by BIS

It Emphasis on the consumer protection that would get enhanced through new Consumer Protection and the

BIS Act.

The theme for this year’s World Standards Day “Standards Make Cities Smarter” was chosen collectively by

International Organization for Standardization (ISO), International Electro Technical Commission (IEC) and

International Telecommunication Union (ITU).

DRDO Successfully Test Fires Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) System

India successfully tested the Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon System or the SAAW system.

The SAAW is a lightweight high precision guided bomb designed to destroy ground targets, such

as runways, bunkers, aircraft hangers and other reinforced structures.Weighing 120 kg (260 lb), it has deep

penetration capabilities, carries a high explosive warhead

The Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon is an indigenously designed and developed smart weapon.

It is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

The guided bomb which were released from the aircraft and guided through precision navigation system,

reached the targets at greater than 70 km range, with high accuracies, according to DRDO scientists.

A total of three tests with different release conditions and ranges were conducted and all were successful.

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There are two variants of the guided bombs-Garuthmaa (winged version with range upto 100 kms) and the

Garudaa (non winged with range of 30 kms to scalable upto 100 kms). The latter also has on board navigation

and guidance systems.

Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana

Minister of Communications Shri Manoj Sinha launched a Pan India scholarship program for school children

called Deen Dayal SPARSH Yojana to increase the reach of Philately.

Under the scheme of SPARSH(Scholarship for Promotion of Aptitude & Research in Stamps as a Hobby), it

is proposed to award annual scholarships to children of Standard VI to IX having good academic record and

also pursuing Philately as a hobby through a competitive selection process in all postal circles.

Coastal Berth Scheme

The Coastal Berth Scheme is flagship scheme of Sagarmala Programme.

The shipping Ministry has extended the period of the scheme for three years, upto 31st March, 2020 and expanded

its scope to cover capital dredging at Major Ports and preparation of DPR for coastal berth project.

The Coastal Berth Scheme aims to provide financial support to ports or state governments for creation of

infrastructure for movement of cargo and passenger by sea or national waterways.

Once completed, the projects will help to promote coastal shipping and increase its share in domestic cargo

movement in India.

International Conference – ‘FIPSPHYSIOCON 2017’

“FIPSPHYSIOCON 2017”, Conference on Human Physiology – VII Congress of Federation of Indian Physiological

Societies (FIPS) along with XXIX Annual Conference of the Physiological Society of India (PSI) organised by Defence

Institute of Physiology and Allied Science (DIPAS) of DRDO was inaugurated at Vallabhbhai Patel Chest Institute

(VPCI), University of Delhi.

It is to update the scientific community about most recent advances in human Physiology in extreme environments,

Neuroscience, Yoga, Sport Physiology and translational research.

India Pitches for Strong Pre-2020 Climate Action by Developed Countries

The opening plenary of the 23rd Conference of Parities (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on

Climate Change (UNFCCC) provided a flicker of hope to the poor and vulnerable people in the developing countries

who are most at risk to the adverse impacts of climate change.

The thirteenth session of the Conference of the Parties serving as the meeting of the Parties to the Kyoto

Protocol CMP 13

The much forgotten, pre-2020 agenda, under which developed countries are to ratify the second commitment

period of the Kyoto Protocol (KP II) to undertake greenhouse gas emission cuts and also provide finance and

technology support to developing countries for enhancing their ambition, found a place in the COP 23 agenda.

Meeting the long-term temperature goal of limiting the temperature rise to 2°C by the end of century requires

strong short-term action.

Enhanced pre-2020 action will reduce the overall costs and economic challenges for making a transition

to low carbon growth pathway and also reduce climate risks and help realize immediate co-benefits

such as improved public health as a result of lower air pollution, improved energy security, reduced

crop yield losses among others.

SHe-Box Online Complaint Management System

It is a comprehensive online complaint Management System for women working in both public and private

organizations to lodge complaints of sexual harassment at workplace.

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Launched by Ministry of Women and Child Development

It ensure the effective implementation of the Sexual Harassment of Women at Workplace (Prevention,

Prohibition and Redressal) Act (the SH Act), 2013.

NDMA conducts brainstorming session on use of UAVs in Disaster

Management

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) conducted a one-day national-level brainstorming session

on “Application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in Disaster Management“.

The event aimed to build and improve the capacity of stakeholders to use UAVs and related technologies for better

disaster preparedness and response

.UAVs can provide high-resolution, real-time images of even the inaccessible locations.

These images can then be used to produce accurate hazard maps so that prevention and mitigation measures

for reducing disaster risks are planned accordingly. In a post-disaster situation, UAVs can be used to map the

affected areas in high resolution within a short time, which, in turn, can aid swift and efficient response.

CZT Imager of AstroSat measures first phase resolved X-ray polarisation of

Crab pulsar

AstroSat, India’s multi-wavelength space telescope, has successfully accomplished the extremely difficult task

of measuring X-ray polarisation.

In a paper published in ‘Nature Astronomy’, the team has documented the results of their eighteen-month

study of the Crab pulsar in the Taurus Constellation and measured the variations of polarisation as this highly

magnetised object spins around 30 times every second.

This landmark measurement puts up a strong challenge to prevailing theories of high energy X-ray emission

from pulsars.

AstroSat is the first dedicated Indian astronomy mission aimed at studying celestial sources in X-ray, optical and UV

spectral bands simultaneously.

2nd meeting of Island Development Agency (IDA)

The Island Development Agency reviewed the concept development plans and detailed master plans for holistic

development of 09 islands – four in A&N Islands i.e. Smith, Ross, Long, Avis and five in Lakshadweep i.e. Minicoy,

Bangaram, Thinnakara, Cheriyam, Suheli.

The project being steered by NITI Aayog aims at promoting and implementing development based on sustainable

approach to building a thriving maritime economy of the project islands.

The IDA was set up on June 1 this year following Prime Minister’s review meeting for the development of islands.

The meetings of the agency are chaired by the Union Home Minister.

India’s Second Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC)

The Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has signed an

Institutional agreement with Anna University to establish India’s second Technology and Innovation Support Centre

(TISC).

These centres will be set up under WIPO’s Technology and Innovation Support Centers (TISC) program.

The programme provides innovators in developing countries with access to locally based, high quality technology

information and related services, helping them to exploit their innovative potential and to create, protect, and

manage their intellectual property (IP) rights.

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Centre approves creation of National Testing Agency

The Union Cabinet has approved

creation of National Testing Agency

(NTA) as a Society registered under the

Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860,

and as an autonomous and self-

sustained premier testing organization

to conduct entrance examinations for

higher educational institutions.

Its creation will relieve the Central Board

of Secondary Education (CBSE) – which

conducts exams like the National

Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test – and the

All India Council for Technical Education

of the burden of conducting entrance

tests.

NTA will be chaired by an

eminent educationist appointed by MHRD.

The CEO will be the Director General to be appointed by the Government.

There will be a Board of Governors comprising members from user institutions.

The Director General will be assisted by 9 verticals headed by academicians/ experts.

2nd Meeting of EAC-PM focuses on Job Creation, Social Sector and Infrastructure

The Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister in its second meeting laid out a roadmap for stepping up skill

development, job creation; enhanced resource investment in the social

It formulated recommendations to guide the evolving framework for the 15th Finance Commission, including

the incentivization of states for achieving health, education and social inclusion outcomes.

The Council is also evolving the design of a new Economy Tracking Monitor, linking economic growth indicators

with social indicators.

Prime Minister has constituted five-member EAC-PM in September 2017 as an independent body to provide advice

on economic issue to the government, specifically to the Prime Minister. It consists of economists of high repute

and eminence. It serves as an independent institutional mechanism, to provide informed advice to the Prime

Minister on addressing issues of macroeconomic importance and related aspects.

Second National Judicial Pay Commission for Subordinate Judiciary in the

country

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister has approved appointment of Second National Judicial Pay

Commission (SNJPC) for Subordinate Judiciary in the country.

The commission will decide on a salary hike for almost 21,000 judges of the subordinate judiciary level and make

its recommendations to the State Governments preferably within a period of 18 months.

India Youth Development Index and Report 2017

The index tracks the trends in Youth Development across the States. The Index enables recognizing the high and

low performing states, identifies the weak domains and informs the policy makers the priority areas of intervention

for youth development in the states.

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In the India Youth Development Index 2017, the first five dimensions are retained same as that of Global

YDI. The indicators and weights have been modified based on the availability of data at sub-national level and the

importance of the indicators in explaining Youth Development with the aim of capturing the multidimensional

properties that indicate progress in youth development at the sub-national level i.e., state level. Global YDI is

different from YDI constructed for India in one unique way; YDI for India adds a new domain, social inclusion, to

assess the inclusiveness of societal progress as structural inequalities persist in Indian society. This construction

helps to identify the gaps that require intensification of policy intervention.

Youth are defined as those aged 15 to 29 in the national youth policy (2014). This age-group constitutes 27.5% of

India’s population.

Project Saksham a “comprehensive training programme” of Indian Railways

Comprehensive plan for imparting training to all employees of Indian Railways is being prepared with a view to upgrade

skill & knowledge. This comprehensive training programme named as “Project Saksham” will help boost productivity

and efficiency.

Under Project Saksham, over the next one year, all employees in each zone will be put through a week’s

training in skills and knowledge relevant to their work area.

The nature of short-duration training will range from refresher courses, with eye on evolved global practices in

respective areas, to skills in existing lining of functioning.

Employees from rank of a peon to higher echelons of Railway Board Members will undergo the training.

AADI MAHOTSAV Festival

Ministry of Tribal Affairs along with Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation Ltd (TRIFED), is

organizing “AADI MAHOTSAV” a celebration of the spirit of Tribal Culture, Cuisine and Commerce.

Theme of the festival is: A Celebration of the Spirit of Tribal Culture, Cuisine and Commerce.

First ever Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response Team (Apcert)

Conference

The Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) under the aegis of Ministry of Electronics & Information

Technology organizinged the Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response Team (APCERT) Conference.

This is the 15th Conference of APCERT and first ever conference in India and South Asia and is attended by

21 economies.

The conference theme is “Building Trust in the Digital Economy”

CERT-In is operational since January 2004. The constituency of CERT-In is the Indian Cyber Community. CERT-In is

the national nodal agency for responding to computer security incidents as and when they occur.

Hunar Haat

The fourth Hunar Haat exhibition was recently organised by the Ministry of Minority Affairs at India International Trade

Fair (IITF) at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi.

Hunar Haats are organised by Ministry of Minority Affairs under USTTAD (Upgrading the Skills & Training in

Traditional Arts/Crafts for Development) scheme.

The USTTAD scheme aims at preserving & promoting the rich heritage of the traditional arts & crafts of the

Minority communities. This is one of the flagship programs of the Ministry.

India’s Positive Actions at COP 23

India has been amongst the frontrunners in meeting its voluntary targets of reduction of emission intensity of its

GDP.

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India called upon both developed and developing countries to fulfil their commitment for pre-2020 period. India

further voiced India’s equal commitment to achieve Nationally Determined Contribution target of reduction

of energy intensity of India’s GDP by 33-35% by 2030.

An early ratification of second commitment period of Kyoto Protocol and concrete actions on provisions of support.

India expects that the second commitment period is operationalized as per existing commitments.

By 2020, the goal of $100 billion per year must be achieved and following the principle of non-regression and

that this must improve further in following years.

India’s contribution to cumulative stock of CO2 equivalent is less than 3%

India’s positive climate actions including promotion of renewable energy, sustainable transport, afforestation

policies, climate friendly agricultural practices, energy efficiency, water conservation, smart cities. That India is one

of the few countries where, despite ongoing development, forest and tree cover has increased, transforming

country’s forests into a net sink owing to national policies aimed at conservation and sustainable management of

forests. As an NDC goal, India aims at creating an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tones of CO2 equivalent

through additional forest and tree cover by 2030.

India has achieved the renewable energy capacity of 60 GW and that aims to scale it up further to achieve about

40 percent of cumulative electric power installed capacity from non-fossil fuel based energy resources by 2030.

The BASIC countries (also Basic countries or BASIC) are a bloc of four large newly industrialized countries –

Brazil, South Africa, India and China – formed by an agreement on 28 November 2009.

Asia Pacific Cert (APCERT) Discuss Building Trust in Digital Economy

First ever Asia Pacific Computer Emergency Response Team (APCERT) Open Conference in India and the first in

South Asia. Theme: Innovation in cyber security is a big focus of the Government.

India was selected to be part of the steering committee of APCERT along with 6 (Australia, China, Japan, Korea,

Malaysia and Taiwan) other countries to shape the agenda for the next 2 years across the region.

In India, cyber security professionals got an opportunity to attend a highly content rich technical conference,

interact with the Asia Pacific incident response leaders in cyber security and the International community got to

see the skills and depth of some of the cyber security start-ups from India.

The National Anti-profiteering Authority under GST

The Union Cabinet approved establishing the National Anti-Profiteering Authority (NAA) under the Goods and Service

Tax (GST) to ensure fair pricing.

NAA aims to ensure that benefit of the reduction in prices under the uniform tax regime reaches the consumers.

This is the second major GST-related decision taken by the government

It ensures that the latest tax rate reductions approved by the GST Council on more than 200 items are implanted

immediately by businesses.

Help in controlling inflation.

The sub-schemes under Umbrella Scheme “Integrated Child Development

Services (ICDS)” for the period till November, 2018

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval for continuation of Anganwadi Services, Scheme

for Adolescent Girls, Child Protection Services and National Crèche Scheme till 30.11.2018 with an outlay of over Rs.

41,000crores.

These are the sub-schemes under Umbrella Scheme “Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS)” are-

Anganwadi Services (ICDS) aims at holistic development of children under the age of six years and its

beneficiaries are children of this age group and Pregnant Women & Lactating Mothers.

Scheme for Adolescent Girls to facilitate, educate and empower Adolescent Girls so as to enable them to

become self-reliant and aware citizens through improved nutrition and health status, promoting awareness about

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health, hygiene, nutrition, mainstreaming out of school AGs into formal/non-formal education and providing

information/guidance about existing public services.

Child Protection Services to provide safe and secure environment for children in conflict with law and children in

need of care and protection, reduce vulnerabilities through a wide range of social protection measures, prevent

actions that lead to abuse, neglect, exploitation, abandonment and separation of children from families etc., bring

focus on non-institutional care, develop a platform for partnership between Government & Civil Society and

establish convergence of child related social protection services.

National Crèche Scheme aims at providing a safe place for mothers to leave their children while they are at work,

and thus, is a measure for empowering women as it enables them to take up employment. At the same time, it is

also an intervention towards protection and development of children in the age group of 6 months to 6 years.

The decision also provides for conversion of National Crèche Scheme from Central Sector to Centrally

Sponsored Scheme with the revised cost sharing between Centre and States as 60:40 for all States and UTs

with legislature, 90:10 for NER and Himalayan States and 100% for UTs without legislature and implementation

of the Scheme through States/UTs instead of existing implementation agencies.

Global Conference on Cyber Space 2017

India, for the first time ever, hosted the Global Conference on Cyber Space (GCCS), one of the world’s largest

conferences in the field of Cyber Space and related issues, on 23 & 24 November 2017, at Aerocity, New Delhi.

Incepted in 2011 in London.

The overall goals of GCCS 2017 was to promote the importance of inclusiveness and human rights in global

cyber policy.

‘Saubhagya’ Web-Portal

Minister of Power and New & Renewable Energy, launched the Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana –

‘Saubhagya’ Web Portal.

The Saubhagya Dashboard is a platform for monitoring household electrification progress, which would disseminate

information on Household Electrification Status (State, District, village-wise), Household Progress on live basis, State-

wise Target vs Achievement, Monthly Electrification Progress, etc.

The Ministry has directed NTPC to mix straw/ crop residue pellets with coal, upto 10%, for power generation in all

of its Thermal Power Plants. This step would reduce crop residue burning in agriculture dominated States

like Punjab, Haryana etc. and hence reduce air pollution that is currently being experienced.

‘Saubhagya’ scheme; was launched by Prime Minister of India on 25th September, 2017 . Under Saubhagya

scheme, all willing households in rural areas and poor families in urban areas are given free electricity

connections. There are around 4 Crore un-electrified households in the country and they are targeted for providing

electricity connections by December 2018.

Till recently, the focus of electrification has been on village electrification through creation of village electricity

infrastructure for all households and providing free electricity connections to poor household families in rural areas.

Now, Saubhagya has come into existence for providing free electricity connections to all households (both

APL and poor families) in rural areas and poor families in urban areas.

Rural Electrification Corporation Limited (REC) is the Nodal Agency for the operationalization of the scheme

throughout the country.

South Asia Regional Training and Technical Assistance Center (SARTTAC)-

IMF

An Interim Meeting of the Steering Committee of the International Monetary Fund (IMF)’s South Asia Regional

Training and Technical Assistance Centre (SARTTAC) was held here today in national capital to assess the

Centre’s activities since its inauguration in February 2017 and to review the Fiscal Year 2018 Work Plan.

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SARTTAC is expected to become the focal point for the delivery of IMF capacity development services to

South Asia.

International Committee of Military Medicine (ICMM)

The 42nd World Congress of the International Committee of Military Medicine (ICMM) was recently organised by the

Armed Forces Medical Services (AFMS) under the aegis of the Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The event is being organised for the first time in India,and is the largest medical conference ever organised

by the AFMS. Around 350-400 foreign delegates from 80 countries are attending the event.

The theme of this 42nd World Congress is “Military Medicine in Transition: Looking Ahead.”

Moscow declaration

Health ministers, NGOs, and private sector representatives from 120 countries adopted the Moscow Declaration,

committing themselves to eliminating additional deaths from HIV co-infection by 2020 and achieving synergy in

coordinated action against TB and non-communicable diseases.

A co-infection is when a person suffers from two infections at the same time.

The Moscow declaration emphasised the need for fixing multisectoral responsibility towards ending TB by 2035,

the global target.

Global efforts to combat TB have saved an estimated 53 million lives since 2000 and reduced the TB mortality rate

by 37%. However, progress in many countries has stalled, global targets are off-track, and persistent gaps remain

in TB care and prevention.

Logistics Sector granted Infrastructure Status

The Logistics Sector has been granted Infrastructure status.

The government has defined “logistics infrastructure” to include a multimodal logistics Park comprising

an Inland Container Depot (ICD) with a minimum investment of Rs50 crore and minimum area of 10 acre, a cold

chain facility with a minimum investment of Rs15 crore and minimum area of 20,000 sq. ft and a warehousing

facility with a minimum investment of Rs25 crore and a minimum area of 100,000 sq ft.

Development of logistics would give a boost to both domestic and external demand thereby encouraging

manufacturing and ‘job creation’.

In 2017, India’s logistics performance improved from 54 to 35 under World Bank Logistics Performance Index

(LPI). The government expects the Indian logistics sector to grow to $360 billion by 2032 from the current $115 billion.

North East Development Summit

Manipur hosted the first ever North East Development Summit (NEDS) 2017 in Imphal in November, 2017..

It was aimed to boost trade and investment in underdeveloped region of North East and at building confidence and

altering perception among visiting delegates and investors

Various international finance agencies laid down their plan for development in the region

Around 36 companies/firms from India participated in addition to associations like FICCI, CII, NASSCOM, Border

Trade Moreh, Myanmar India Business Chamber, India Bangladesh Chamber of Commerce etc.

Manipur Sangai Festival 2017

Every year the State of Manipur celebrates the “Manipur Sangai Festival” from 21st to 30th November.

The ‘Festival’ is named after the State animal, Sangai, the brow-antlered deer found only in Manipur.

It started in the year 2010 and has grown over the years into a big platform for Manipur to showcase its rich tradition

and culture to the world.

The festival reflect the State’s proud cultural heritage and the love for art which is inherent amongst various tribes

inhabiting the State of Manipur. The State’s classical dance form, ‘Ras Leela’ is quite famous all over the world for

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its distinctiveness from any other dance forms in India. The other folk dance performances like the Kabui Naga

dance, Bamboo dance, Maibi dance, Lai Haraoba dance, Khamba Thoibi dance etc. which will be showcased at

the festival.

42nd International Committee on Military Medicine World Congress

India is for the first time hosting the World Congress of the International Committee of Military Medicine

Theme: ‘Military Medicine in Transition: Looking Ahead’

The International Committee of Military Medicine (ICMM) is an international and intergovernmental organization

consisting of more than one hundred states

The ICMM was established in 1921, after World War I had revealed the lack of care provided to victims and the

need to strengthen cooperation between the health services of the armed forces worldwide.

India’s Membership for European Bank for Reconstruction & Development

The Union Cabinet has approved India’s Membership for European Bank for Reconstruction & Development (EBRD)

Membership of EBRD would enhance India’s international profile and promote its economic interests. Access to

EBRD’s Countries of Operation and sector knowledge.

India’s investment opportunities would get a boost.

It would increase the scope of cooperation between India and EBRD through co-financing opportunities in

manufacturing, services, Information Technology, and Energy.

EBRD’s core operations pertain to private sector development in their countries of operation. The membership

would help India leverage the technical assistance and sectoral knowledge of the bank for the benefit of

development of private sector.

Approves expansion of umbrella scheme “Mission For Protection And

Empowerment For Women” and introducing a new scheme ‘ Pradhan Mantri

Mahila Shakti Kendra’

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister has given its approval for expansion of

the schemes of Ministry of Women and Child Development under Umbrella Scheme “Mission for Protection and

Empowerment for Women” for a period 2017-18 to 2019-20.

CCEA has also given approval to the new scheme called ‘Pradhan Mantri Mahila Shakti Kendra', which will empower

rural women through community participation to create an environment in which they realize their full potential.

The approved sub-schemes are social sector welfare schemes especially for care, protection and development

of women.

It will also aim at improvement in declining Child Sex Ratio; ensuring survival. & protection of the girl child;

ensuring her education and empowering her to fulfil her potential.

Brahmos Flight test from IAF’s Su-30MKI fighter aircraft

In a first, air-launched Brahmos missile test-fired

Brahmos, the world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile created history on 22nd Nov 2017 after it was successfully

flight-tested first time from the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) frontline fighter aircraft Sukhoi-30MKI against a sea based target

in the Bay of Bengal.

The missile was gravity dropped from the Su-30 from fuselage, and the two-stage missile’s engine fired up and

straightway propelled towards the intended target at the sea in Bay of Bengal.

Brahmos, the world-class weapon with multi-platform, multi-mission role is now capable of being launched

from Land, Sea and Air, completing the tactical cruise missile triad for India.

Brahmos is a joint venture between DRDO of India and NPOM of Russia.

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Pradhan Mantri Khanij Kshetra Kalyan Yojana (PMKKKY)

The programme is meant to provide for the welfare of areas and people affected by mining related operations,

using the funds generated by District Mineral Foundations (DMFs).

To implement various developmental and welfare projects/programs in mining affected areas that complement the

existing ongoing schemes/projects of State and Central Government.

To minimize/mitigate the adverse impacts, during and after mining, on the environment, health and socio-

economics of people in mining districts.

To ensure long-term sustainable livelihoods for the affected people in mining areas.

Act, 2015, mandated the setting up of District Mineral Foundations (DMFs) in all districts in the country affected by

mining related operations.

Defence of Andaman & Nicobar Islands Exercise (DANX-17)

Defence of Andaman and Nicobar Islands Exercise (DANX) was conducted under the aegis of Andaman & Nicobar

Command. The five day exercise started on 20 Nov 2017 and culminated on 24 Nov 2017.

To practice & validate procedures and drills of all the Command forces aimed at defending Andaman & Nicobar

Islands. Accretional forces from the main land including fighters, Special Forces, Naval ships and heavy lift

transport aircraft participated in the exercise.

Meet on Centre-State relations

Home Minister chaired a meeting of the Standing Committee of the Inter State Council (ISC) to discuss the

recommendations made by the Puncchi Commission on Centre-State relations.

The Standing Committee at its meeting considered 118 recommendations contained in Volumes-III, IV and V and

finalised its recommendations.

The Punchhi Commission, which was notified in 2005, submitted its report in 2010. Its recommendations pertaining

to national security, communal harmony, Centre-State financial relations and planning are expected to be

discussed.

The inter-state council was established under Article 263 of the Constitution of India through a Presidential

Order dated 28 May 1990.The Council shall consist of prime minister who is the chairman.

International Geological Congress

The 36th International Geological Congress (IGC) to be held in Delhi, India in the year 2020.

The IGCs are held quadrennially under the aegis of the IUGS through a process of global bidding.

India won the bid in 2012 at Brisbane, Australia to host the Congress in 2020. The win is a remarkable achievement

as the event makes a come back to the Indian soil after nearly 6 decades much to the excitement of the entire

geoscientific community.

International Geological Congress (IGC) is the prestigious global platform for advancement of Earth

Science.The first session of IGC assembled in 1878 in France with an aim to provide the global geological

community with an opportunity to create an organizational frame work for meeting at regular intervals.

National Law Day

November 26 is regarded as the second Constitution Day in the modern history of India. It is also celebrated as the

National Law Day.

This year, the National Law Day was celebrated jointly by the Law Commission of India and NITI Aayog.

Sixty-eight years ago on November 26, the Constitution of India was adopted by the Constituency Assembly.

However, the Constitution was only partially adopted that day. The full adoption came two months later on January

26, 1950 – the day is celebrated as the Republic Day to mark the anniversary of occasion.

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INSPIRE 2017

The first edition of the International Symposium to Promote Innovation & Research in Energy Efficiency (INSPIRE

2017) was kicked off in Jaipur recently.

INSPIRE 2017 is an International Conference that brings together various stakeholders such as policy makers,

innovators, financiers, influencers to showcase best practices in the sector.

It provides a platform for energy efficiency community to discuss energy efficiency policies, market

transformation strategies, emerging technologies, delivery and business-model driven transformations.

The event is further designed to provide global and national thought-leaders and implementers to expand

perspectives on energy efficiency and spur ideas and solutions that will help leverage the full potential of energy

efficiency and bring its multiple co-benefits to the fore.

International Multilateral Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (IMMSAREX)

The International Multilateral Maritime Search and Rescue Exercise (IMMSAREX) being held from November 26

to November 28 under the aegis of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS).

This is the first ever operational exercise held under the aegis of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS) in

Bangladesh.

The Exercise comprised drills related to fire-fighting, sea accidents and rescue, as well as deep sea searches for

missing ships, searches for missing aircraft, and other emergency rescue operations.

IONS: Indian Ocean Naval Symposium (IONS)is a multilateral maritime security initiative undertaken in 2008. In

the broader perspective it was initiated taking all the littoral countries of the Indian Ocean (IO) onboard to promote

friendly relationship and build professional cooperation among the IOR littorals.

Global Entrepreneurship Summit 2017

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump’s advisor and daughter Ivanka Trump jointly

inaugurated 8th annual Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES 2017) in Hyderabad, Telangana. The mega

event was co-hosted by National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog and US Government n

partnership with Telangana Government.

The Global Entrepreneurship Summit is being held for the first time in South Asia in Hyderabad, India, from

November 28-30 2017.

With the theme of “Women First, Prosperity for All,” this will be the first GES in which women are the majority,

over 52.5 per cent, of the participants.

This year’s summit theme demonstrates the commitment of the U.S. and Indian governments to the principle that

when women are economically empowered, their communities and countries thrive. Women entrepreneurs help

drive innovation and job creation, as well as address the world’s greatest and most critical challenges.

GES is preeminent annual entrepreneurship gathering that convenes over one thousand emerging entrepreneurs,

investors, and supporters from around the It is organized annually since 2010.

Health Ministry and ICMR launch India Hypertension Management Initiative

(IHMI)

The IHMI aims to reduce disability and death related to cardiovascular disease (CVD), the leading cause of

death in India, by improving the control of high blood pressure (hypertension), reducing salt consumption and

eliminating artificial trans-fats, leading risk factors for CVD.

It is a collaborative project of Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare

(MoHFW), State Governments, World Health Organization (WHO), and Resolve to Save Lives initiative of Vital

Strategies.

It is to reduce morbidity and mortality due to CVDs, the leading cause of death in India, by improving the control

of high blood pressure, which is a leading risk factor for CVDs among adults in India.

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Skill India partners with Airbnb to Upskill Hospitality Entrepreneurs

A tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed here today between National Skill

Development Corporation (NSDC) and Tourism and Hospitality Sector Skill Council (THSC) with Airbnb,

the world’s leading community-driven hospitality company.

The MoU will provide hospitality skills training to hospitality micro-entrepreneurs in India. The MoU signed

aims to empower more citizens, including those in rural and underserved areas to join the ‘alternate

accommodation’ sector and pursue new livelihood opportunities by sharing their homes.

15th finance commission

The 15th Finance Commission was constituted on November 27, 2017 and is headed by former Revenue

Secretary and former Rajya Sabha MP N.K. Singh. The panel also includes Shaktikanta Das, former Economic

Affairs Secretary and Anoop Singh, adjunct professor at Georgetown University.

This Commission is slated to submit its recommendations by October 31, 2019. The recommendations, to be

observed for a period of five years, will kick in from April 1, 2020.

The constitution of each Finance Commission is announced by a gazette notification. The notification comprises

terms that list out the Commission’s work and considerations, called the Terms of Reference.

In the notification issued on November 27, the ToR recommended, “the Commission shall use the population data

of 2011 while making its recommendations.”

The panel will decide on devolution share of states from central taxes as well as suggest measures to augment

the Consolidated Fund of a State to supplement the resources of the Panchayats and Municipalities.

The panel has been asked to take into account the impact of the GST, including payment of compensation for

possible loss of revenues for 5 years, and abolition of a number of cesses, earmarking thereof for compensation

and other structural reforms programme, on the finances of Centre and States.

It is a body set up under Article 280 of the Constitution. Its primary job is to recommend measures and methods

on how revenues need to be distributed between the Centre and states.

October 2017 Indian Navy Foils Piracy Attempt in Gulf of Aden.

INS Trishul thwarts pirate attack on Indian ship in Gulf of Aden.

The Indian Navy has been deploying a warship in the waters in and around the Gulf Of Aden since 2008 and has

safely escorted hundreds of merchant vessels through these treacherous waters.

Indian ships are mandated to prevent piracy and are not mandated for regional law enforcement.

The actions taken by the ship are the rationale for the continued deployment of Indian ships for anti-piracy

operations in the Gulf of Aden.

The Gulf of Aden is a gulf located in the Arabian Sea between Yemen, on the south coast of the Arabian Peninsula,

and Somalia in the Horn of Africa.

Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan Scheme

Pradhan Mantri Gramin Digital Saksharta Abhiyan’ (PMGDISHA) to make 6 crore rural households digitally

literate

PMGDISHA is expected to be one of the largest digital literacy programmes in the world. Under the scheme,

25 lakh candidates will be trained in the FY 2016-17; 275 lakh in the FY 2017-18; and 300 lakh in the FY 2018-

19.

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Digitally literate persons would be able to operate computers/digital access devices (like tablets, smart phones,

etc.), send and receive emails, browse internet, access Government Services, search for information,

undertaking cashless transactions, etc. and hence use IT to actively participate in the process of nation building

The implementation of the Scheme would be carried out under the overall supervision of Ministry of Electronics

and IT in active collaboration with States/UTs through their designated State Implementing Agencies, District

e-Governance Society (DeGS), etc.

As per the 71st NSSO Survey on Education 2014, only 6% of rural households have a computer. This highlights

that more than 15 crore rural households (@ 94% of 16.85 crore households) do not have computers and a

significant number of these households are likely to be digitally illiterate.

India Energy Forum by CERAWEEK

For the first time three day International conference being organized by CERAWEEK outside Houston in a regional

format. The event is being hosted in collaboration with the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

The Forum serves as a catalyst for the development of a sustainable and competitive energy sector in India. India’s

energy requirements are enormous and the demand is growing but our resources are limited both in physical and

financial terms.

It is a long term imperative that these resources are exploited optimally. India is attracting significant attention from

major overseas project developers, equipment suppliers and financiers.

Intensified Mission Indradhanush

Aim:- Let no child suffer from any vaccine-preventable disease

Through the ‘Intensified Mission Indradhanush’ or IMI, the government aims to reach every child below the age

of two years and pregnant women still uncovered under the routine immunisation programme.

The special drive will focus on improving immunization coverage in select districts and cities to ensure full

immunization to more than 90% by December 2018.

The achievement of full immunisation under Mission Indradhanush to at least 90% coverage was to be achieved

by 2020 earlier. With the launch of IMI, achievement of the target has now been advanced.

The programme in order to make all efforts to reduce maternal and child mortality.

It will have inter-ministerial and inter-departmental coordination, action-based review mechanism and intensified

monitoring and accountability framework for effective implementation of targeted rapid interventions to improve

the routine immunization coverage.

Annual Dilli Seminar – ‘India and South East Asia Maritime Trade, Expedition

and Civilisation Linkages’

Indian Naval Academy (INA), Ezhimala is all set to conduct the fourth edition of the prestigious annual Dilli seminar

on 12th and 13th of October 2017.

Theme for this year’s seminar is ‘India and Southeast Asia – Maritime Trade, Expedition and Civilisation Linkages’.

It is aimed to explore and elucidate the impact of historic maritime trade that existed between India and

Southeast Asian countries on their society, religion, spirituality, art, architecture, language, literature,

administration and other areas of civilization.

INA conducts the annual Dilli seminar on elements and issues of maritime history and heritage of the nation

to help the young officers and cadets keep an eye on future developments in the maritime domain with a strong

foundation of the past.

Value Engineering Programme

The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways to implement it.

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The objective of the programme is to use innovative technology, materials and equipment to reduce the cost of

projects and make them more environment friendly, while simultaneously ensuring that the roads or bridges and

other assets get constructed much faster, are structurally stronger and more durable.

The Value Engineering Programme is expected to increase speed of construction, reduce construction

cost, increase asset durability and improve aesthetics and safety.

First BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise

The First ‘BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise- 2017’ (BIMSTEC DMEx-2017) was conducted by the

National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) as the lead agency from October 10-13, 2017 in Delhi and the

National Capital Region.

At the 17th BIMSTEC Senior Officials Meeting held in Kathmandu, Nepal on February 7, 2017, it was decided

that India would organize the first annual Disaster Management Exercise for the region.

This Exercise will be a platform for sharing Best Practices on all aspects of Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR),

strengthening regional response and coordination for Disaster Management among the BIMSTEC member

countries.

The main focus of the BIMSTEC DMEx-2017 will be on testing the region’s preparedness and resilience towards

effective activation of inter-Governmental interaction/dialogue/agreements for immediate deployment of regional

resources for disaster response

Namami Gange Programme

National Mission for Clean Ganga has approved eight projects worth Rs. 700 crore, out of which four pertain to

sewage management in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal, three are related to treatment of drains through

bio-remediation and one of inventorization and surveillance of river Ganga.

Namami Gange programme was launched as a mission to achieve the target of cleaning river Ganga in an effective

manner with the unceasing involvement of all stakeholders, especially five major Ganga basin States –

Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and West Bengal.

The programme envisages: River Surface Cleaning, Sewerage Treatment Infrastructure, River Front

Development, Bio-Diversity, Afforestation and Public Awareness.

The program would be implemented by the National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), and its state

counterpart organizations i.e., State Program Management Groups (SPMGs).

In order to improve implementation, a three-tier mechanism has been proposed for project monitoring comprising

of a) High level task force chaired by Cabinet Secretary assisted by NMCG at national level, b) State level

committee chaired by Chief Secretary assisted by SPMG at state level and c) District level committee chaired by

the District Magistrate.

India Water Week

The issue of water is becoming still more critical in view of climate change and related environmental concerns. Better

and more efficient use of water is a challenge for Indian agriculture and industry alike. It requires us to set new

benchmarks in both our villages and in the cities we build.

The government has involved all stakeholders including decision makers, politicians, researchers and

entrepreneurs of water resources from India as well as abroad to discuss strategies for managing the demands

and supplies in the right manner.

The first event was organised in New Delhi in 2012 and the theme was ‘Water, Energy and Food Security: Call

for Solutions’.

Fourth India Water week 2016: Water for All: Striving Together

The India Water Week 2017: Water and Energy for Inclusive Growth

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A Joint Declaration of Intent was signed between Ministry of Railways and

Germany for feasibility study

The current Joint Declaration of Intent is intended to deepen the cooperation, more specifically towards the

achievement in the priority area of Semi High Speed Rail: the upgrading of current passenger services to SHS (Semi

High Speed) upto 200 kmph on the Chennai-Kazipet corridor (643 km).

The Project is envisaged to consist of three phases to be carried out over a 22 month period with the objectives to

provide :

Phase 1: Definition of three demand-based Upgrade scenarios for the corridor

Phase 2: Selection of the preferred Upgrade scenario for SHS on the corridor, based on analysis of respective

operations and economic-financial impact.

Phase 3: For preferred scenario, Reference design and technical Tender document:

Protocol on cooperation in Rail sector was signed between both sides in May, 2016 in Germany, with many following

priority areas.

Paryatan Parv

The soul of ‘Paryatan Parv- DekhoApnaDesh’ is spreading its wings and enticing overseas Indian Community to

come and see Bharat-Apna Desh.

It aims of drawing attention on the benefits of tourism, showcasing the cultural diversity of the country and

reinforcing the principle of “Tourism for All”.

The programme is being organised by the Ministry of Tourism, in collaboration with other Central Ministries, State

Governments and stakeholders.

Cabinet approves MoC between India and Japan

The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the signing of "Memorandum of

Cooperation (MoC)" between India and Japan on the "Technical Intern Training Program (TITP)".

This MoC is expected to be signed during the forthcoming visit of Hon'ble Minister for Skill Development &

Entrepreneurship during October, 16-18, 2017 at Tokyo.

The Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) is an ambitious program to send Indian technical interns to

Japan for on the job training for a period of three to five years.

It is expected that the MoC will pave the way for bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the area

of skill development.

MoU between India and Belarus

This is for the first time MoU for cooperation in area of vocational education, training and skill development has

been signed with Eurasian country.

Belarus has a large concentration of industries, mainly into manufacturing and heavy industries, which draw their

strength from available skilled manpower and a highly developed skill training system.

The transfer of knowledge of their skilling methodology will immensely help in our initiatives like "Make in India"

and "Skill India".

SANKALP & STRIVE Schemes to boost Skill India Mission

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved two new World Bank supported schemes of Rs. 6,655

crore – Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP) and Skill Strengthening

for Industrial Value Enhancement (STRIVE).

Skills Acquisition and Knowledge Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP) aimed at providing market

relevant training to youths across the country.

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Skill Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement (STRIVE) aimed at improving the quality and the market

relevance of vocational training provided in ITIs.

Both Schemes are under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship and supported by World Bank

loan assistance.

The two schemes will help in setting up national body for vocational education – Vocational Education and Training

(VET). VET shall regulate accreditation and certification in both long and short term thereby bringing about

uniformity in vocational training.

SANKALP is a centrally sponsored scheme and STRIVE is a central sector scheme.

India’s first Sewage Treatment Plant under Hybrid Annuity Mode to come up

in Haridwar and Varanasi

Hybrid Annuity mode (HAM): HAM’s a hybrid — a mix of the EPC (engineering, procurement and construction)

and BOT (build, operate, transfer) models. Under the EPC model, NHAI pays private players to lay roads.

Basic features of the existing PPP model is to Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) Annuity Model; BOT Toll

Model; Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) Model

HAM arose out of a need to have a better financial mechanism for road development.Also, if the compensation

structure didn’t involve a fixed compensation (such as annuity), developers had to take on the entire risk of low

passenger traffic

Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA)

Union Cabinet has given its approval for International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse

Authorities (IALA) to change its status from Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) to Inter-Governmental

Organization (IGO).

The move will facilitate “to foster the safe, economic and efficient movement of vessels”. It will bring IALA at

par with International Maritime Organisation (IMO) and International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO).

The IALA, having headquarters at St. Germainen Laye (France) was established in 1957 under French law.

It is governed by a General Assembly having 83 National members, with its Council as the executive body.

The IALA council consists of 24 National Members and India is one of the council members represented

through the Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships (DGLL), Ministry of Shipping.

DGLL establishes and maintains Aids to Navigation in general waters along coast of India including A&N and

Lakshadweep group of islands, as per Lighthouse Act 1927.

Launch of Mobile Health App `MedWatch' By the Indian Air Force

On the occasion of its 85th anniversary, the Indian Air Force has launched an innovative mobile health App named

`MedWatch' in keeping with the Prime Minister's vision of ‘Digital India'.

‘MedWatch’, available on the IAF's AFCEL network, comprises a host of features that will provide authentic

health information to all IAF personnel.

A Reminder Tool to enable timely immunization for the children of all Air Warriors is an important component of

the App. This will directly enable 'Mission Indradhanush' of the Govt of India.

Sampoorna Bima Gram (SBG) Yojana

The Minister for Communications launched the Sampoorna Bima Gram (SBG) Yojana and an initiative for expansion

of clientele base of Postal Life Insurance.

In a bid to provide affordable life insurance services to people, particularly those living in rural areas of the country,

the government launched SBG and expanded the coverage of Postal Life Insurance (PLI).

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Under SBG at least one village (having a minimum of 100 households) will be identified in each of the revenue

districts of the country, wherein endeavour will be made to cover all households of that identified village with a

minimum of one RPLI (Rural Postal Life Insurance) policy each.

PLI, introduced in 1884, is one of the oldest life insurance schemes for benefit of government and semi-

government employees.

Mitra Shakti 2017

The fifth India-Sri Lanka Joint Training Exercise MITRA SHAKTI 2017 was conducted at Aundh Military Station,

Pune.

The Mitra Shakti series of exercises has been one of key defence cooperation initiatvies between the two

countries since 2013.

The exercise is based on Counter Terrorist Operations and an Infantry company from both the countries is

participating in the same.

The training exercise is considered an important effort in India’s response to China’s growing influence in South Asia

and the Indian Ocean region.

Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) Act 2016 brought into force

A new Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) Act 2016 which was notified on 22nd March, 2016, has been brought into

force with effect from 12th October, 2017.

The Act establishes the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) as the National Standards Body of India.

The Act has enabling provisions for the Government to bring under compulsory certification regime.

Enabling provisions have also been made for making hallmarking of the precious metal articles mandatory.

New Guiness Record at IISF Chennai 2017

Day two of the India International Science Festival (IISF) in Anna University campus at Chennai saw the making of a new Guinness World Record for the Largest Biology Lesson.

The 3rd series of IISF was held on 13-16 October 2017, Chennai, Tamil Nadu. World Record attempts have been a key part of India International Science Festival since 2015, which leads to

encouragement and popularizing of Science through public participation. VIBHA has become the Guinness Book World Record Holder for the successful conduct of the 'Largest Practical

Science Lesson' by 2000 students from prestigious schools of Delhi.

Exercise INDRA - 2017: Indo-Russia Joint Exercise

‘Indra-2017’, the first The Indo-Russian tri-service military exercise concluded in Russia’s Vladivostok, on

Sunday after 11 days of joint training in counter-terrorism operations.

It the first ever Tri Services Joint Exercise between Indian and Russian Armed Forces was conducted in

the Eastern Military District of Russia from 19 to 29 Oct 2017.

It in its previous nine avatars has been conducted as a single service exercise alternately between the two

countries.

Exercise which will provide an opportunity to the armed forces of both countries to train in counter

terrorism operations in a multinational scenario in a joint tri service environment.

It will strengthen mutual confidence, inter-operability and enable sharing of best practices between both the armed

forces and be a landmark event in the history of Indo-Russian defence cooperation.

INS kilta

The Indian Navy is slated to commission the stealthiest diesel-electric attack submarine, the INS Kalvari, this month,

currently undergoing the final stages of sea trials.

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INS Kiltan (P30), third Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) stealth corvettes built under Project 28 (Kamorta Class)

was recently commissioned into the Indian Navy.

It is named after the coral island belonging to the Lakshadweep group of islands.

Regarded as a very prestigious acquisition, INS Kiltan is one of the most potent warships to have been

constructed in India. More than 80 % of the ship is indigenous with state of the art equipment & systems to fight

in Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) warfare conditions.

INS Kiltan is the first major warship with superstructure entirely of composite material.

Ministry WCD launches campaign on ‘women for women’: #IamThatWoman

In an attempt to end Gender bias in women against women, the Ministry of Women and Child Development is

undertaking an online campaign #IamThatWoman.

Through the campaign, the Ministry seeks to highlight the various aspects of women standing ‘by’ and ‘for’ women.

When a woman has the support of her womanhood, she can be unstoppable. Through this campaign, the

government aims to shed light on the enormous contributions made by women for women.

ACI-ASQ Survey

The Jaipur and Srinagar Airport are ranked First and Second respectively in the category of 2-5 million passengers in

ACI-ASQ Survey.

This is for the second consecutive time that Jaipur Airport has been rated the Best Airport in the World in the

traffic volume of 2 to 5 million passengers per year. Jaipur was ranked as the Best Airport in the World catering to

a traffic volume of 2 to 5 million passengers per year in 2016 also.

The Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Awards are the aviation industry’s most prestigious accolades.

The awards recognize the airports which have achieved the highest passenger satisfaction ratings in the ASQ

Survey – the world’s benchmark measure of airport excellence.

It is the only worldwide programme to survey passengers at the airports on their day of travel.

CIPAM-DIPP Launches Logo and Tagline Contest for Geographical Indications

of India

The Cell for IPR Promotions & Management (CIPAM) launched a logo and tagline/slogan contest for Geographical

Indications (GIs) of India on MyGov.in website.

It is primarily an agricultural, natural or a manufactured product (handicrafts and industrial goods) originating from a

definite geographical territory.

Typically, such a name conveys an assurance of quality and distinctiveness, which is essentially attributable to the

place of its origin.

Some of the examples of registered Indian GIs are Darjeeling Tea, Tirupathi Laddu, KangraPaintings, Nagpur

Orange, Kashmir Pashmina etc.

GIs are not only part of our rich culture and collective intellectual heritage, but they also supplement the incomes

of our rural farmers, weavers, artisans and craftsmen across the country.

Benefits of GI Status is Legal protection to the products, Prevents unauthorised use of a GI tag products by others,

Helps consumers to get to get quality products of desired traits and Promotes economic prosperity of producers of GI

tag goods by enhancing their demand in national and international .

Determination of Ceiling Prices of Drugs

The Government has been examining the Drugs (Prices Control) Order, 2013 (DPCO) with a view to enhancing the

accessibility and affordability of essential medicines at reasonable prices to the poor and needy while providing

sufficient opportunity for innovation and competition to support the growth of the Pharmaceutical Industry.

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Under the provisions of DPCO, the prices of only those medicines are fixed which are in the National List of

Essential Medicines (NLEM), numbering about 850 against more than 6,000 medicines available in the market of

various strengths and dosages. This constitutes approximately 17% of the total pharmaceuticals market, in value

terms.

Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme

The scheme helps in reducing the demand for physical gold by shifting a part of the estimated 300 tons of

physical bars and coins purchased every year for Investment into gold bonds.

Since most of the demand for gold in India is met through imports, this scheme will, ultimately help in maintaining

the country's Current Account Deficit within sustainable limits.

The issuance of the Sovereign Gold Bonds will be within the government's market borrowing programme for 2015-

16 and onwards.

The actual amount of issuance will be determined by RBI, in consultation with the Ministry of Finance.

The risk of gold price changes will be borne by the Gold Reserve Fund that is being created. The benefit to the

Government is in terms of reduction in the cost of borrowing, which will be transferred to the Gold Reserve Fund.

PM inaugurates Phase 1 of RO RO Ferry Service between Ghogha and Dahej

The Prime Minister, inaugurated Phase 1 of the RO RO (Roll on, Roll off) ferry service between Ghogha in Saurashtra,

and Dahej in South Gujarat which shall reduce the travel time from eight hours to over an hour.

At present passenger movement is enabled, vehicle movement is possible once the ferry service is fully

operational.

This ferry service is a first of sorts, will save a lot of time and fuel as many people commute between these

two regions frequently.

Government aims to develop coastal infrastructure, integrate transport sector and improve state-of- the art to

augment steps towards blue economy

Blue Economy: It is the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods and jobs, and

ocean ecosystem health. It encompasses many activities

India’s first Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra for skilling in Smart Cities

inaugurated

India's first Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendra (PMKK) for Skilling in Smart Cities, in collaboration with New Delhi

Municipal Council (NDMC) has been launched.

The main aim behind the move is to bring momentum in skilling through collaborative efforts.

The Centre is emphasizing on the commitment of the Union Government to support skilling in smart cities.

To extend cooperation for setting up of PMKK Centres for Smart Cities

To provide skill training for unemployed youth through its short-term training (STT) module

Contribute to the capacity building of municipal employees through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)

program.

Olive Research and Development in India

Two days olive workshop on “Olive Research and Development in India” organized by Oilseeds Division,

Department of Agriculture and Corporation & Farmers Welfare and ICAR-Central Institute of Temperate

Horticulture Srinagar from October 24-25, 2017, in Srinagar

Olive is a small tree of the oleaceae family and is native to the coastal areas of eastern Mediterranean (Italy and

Spain), northern Iraq and northern Iran south of the Caspian Sea. Its fruit adorns salads, but is used primarily to

extract olive oil, one of the most expensive cooking oils.

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India had little to do with olive cultivation. All the olive oil India needed to use on salads, or to fry, bake

and grill, was imported.

In 2007, however, the Mediterranean plant finally travelled to Rajasthan.

Major Production states of olives in India include Rajasthan, UP, Himachal Pradesh and J&k

Navika Sagar Parikrama – Tarini Enters Fremantle

INSV Tarini entered Fremantle (Australia) port during it’s maiden voyage to circumnavigate the globe.

This is the first-ever Indian circumnavigation of the globe by an all-women crew.

The indigenously-built INSV Tarini is a 56-foot sailing vessel, which was inducted in the Indian Navy earlier this year,

and showcases the ‘Make in India’ initiative on the International forum.

The expedition titled ‘Navika Sagar Parikrama’, is in consonance with the National policy to empower women

to attain their full potential.

It also aims to showcase ‘Nari Shakti’ on the world platform and help revolutionise societal attitudes and

mindset towards women in India by raising visibility of their participation in challenging environs.

Additional aims of the Expedition are as Nari Shakti, Environment and Climate, Make in India, Meteorological/

Ocean/ Wave Data, Marine Pollution, Interaction with Local PIOs.

Ministries of Power & Textiles join hands under new initiative SAATHI

Ministries of Power and Textiles have joined hands under a new initiative SAATHI (Sustainable and Accelerated

Adoption of efficient Textile technologies to Help small Industries).

Under this initiative, Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL), a public-sector entity under the administrative

control of Ministry of Power, would procure energy efficient Power looms, motors and Rapier kits in bulk and provide

them to the small and medium Power loom units at no upfront cost.

INS Sukanya at Indonesia for Coordinated Patrol of IMBL

In pursuance with India’s ‘Act East Policy’, Indian Naval Ship Sukanya under the command of Commander SA

Deodhar, NM arrived at Belawan Indonesia this morning to participate in the 30th edition of CORPAT (Coordinated

Patrol) and 3rd Bilateral exercise between the Indian Navy and the Indonesian Navy.

The exercise is aimed to foster closer maritime ties with countries located on the rim of the Indian Ocean.

The upcoming bi-lateral exercise CORPAT scheduled from 24 Oct – 05 Nov 17 is a demonstration of India’s

commitment to its ties with Indonesia and to the maritime security in the Indian Ocean Region.

The two navies have been carrying out Coordinated Patrols (CORPAT) on respective sides of the International

Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) twice a year since 2002.

The aim of the CORPAT is to enhance mutual understanding and inter-operability between the navies,

prosecute vessels involved in unlawful activities, conduct SAR and take measures against Sea

Pollution.

Minister for Commerce and Industry reviews Government’s initiatives on IPR

The Minister for Commerce and Industry, Shri Suresh Prabhu took a review of the Intellectual Property Rights (IPR)

related initiatives taken by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce and

Industry, for strengthening the IPR regime in the country.

The Government of India has been working relentlessly to streamline IP processes and modernization of IP offices

through steps such as comprehensive e-filing facilities made available for patents and trademarks, auto-allotment of

patent applications to ensure uniformity and utilization of the specialized expertise of all examiners and controllers and

by auto generation of trademark certificates.

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To reduce the pendency, 458 Patent and 59 Trademark examiners have been appointed in addition to the existing

manpower. Pendency in Patent examination is targeted to be brought down from the present 7 years to 18 months by

2019.

Integrity Index

Central Vigilance Commission has set to develop integrity index for public sector undertakings, public sector

banks and financial institutions, Ministries and its departments.

CVC will calculate scores by linking the essential drivers of vigilance with long term efficiency, profitability and

sustainability of public organizations.

It will help in creating an internal and external ecosystem that promotes working with Integrity in public

organizations.

Initially 25 organizations have been selected for development of the index.

The main objectives for which the Integrity Index is to be established are to Define what constitutes Integrity of

Public Organizations, Identify the different factors of Integrity and their inter-linkages, Create an objective and reliable

tool that can measure the performance of organizations along these above factors, Validate the findings over a period

of time to improve upon the robustness of the tool that measures Integrity, Create an internal and external ecosystem

that promotes working with Integrity where public organizations lead the way.

International Conference on Consumer Protection for East, South and South-

East Asian.

Theme: “Empowering Consumers in New Markets”

The United Nations Guidelines for Consumer Protection (UNGCP) were adopted by United Nations General

Assembly on 16 April 1985 and revised in December 22nd 2015.

The new guidelines call for greater International cooperation.

Against this backdrop, the Department of Consumer Affairs, Government of India and the United Nations

Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) are organizing an International Conference on Consumer

Protection for South, South East and East Asian Nations on the theme “Empowering Consumers in New Markets”.

This is the first time an international conference on consumer protection is being organised by India for

countries of the region which account for a majority of the global consumers and share common challenges and

experiences. 22 countries from East, South and South-East Asia are participating in the international conference.

The Conference provides a platform to discuss and deliberate upon different aspects of consumer protection in

the backdrop of revised UNGCP, aimed at shared learning and will explore a way forward for enhanced regional

cooperation on the subject.

India and US Hold 11th Trade Policy Forum Meeting in Washington D.C.

The 11th Trade Policy Forum (TPF) Meeting was held in Washington D.C. on 26th October 2017. The Minister for

Commerce and Industry, Shri Suresh Prabhu had productive discussions with the United States Trade

Representative, Ambassador Robert Lighthizer and his team in a cordial, friendly and positive manner.

The Minister for Commerce and Industry noted that the TPF serves as a robust platform that contributes towards

promoting bilateral trade and investment between India and the US.

During the meeting, discussions were held on issues related to bilateral trade between the two countries,

areas of mutual cooperation, market access in agriculture, non-agricultural goods and services and Intellectual

Property Rights (IPR).

Indian skilled workers and students make important contributions to the US economy.

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List of MoUs/Agreements signed during the visit of Prime Minister of Italy to

India

Joint Declaration of Intent of Cooperation for Safety in the Railway sector between India and Italy

MoU on 70 years of diplomatic relations between Indian Council of Cultural Relations and Ministry of Foreign Affairs

& International Cooperation, Government of the Republic of Italy MoU on cooperation In the field of Energy between

India and Italy, Executive Protocol on Cultural Cooperation between India and Italy, MoU between the Training Unit

of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation.

Government of the Republic of Italy and the Foreign Service Institute of the Ministry of External Affairs,

Government of the Republic of India MoU for promoting mutual investments between Italian Trade Agency

and Invest India.

MSME Payment Portal – MSME Samadhaan launched

MSME Delayed Payment Portal – MSME Samadhaan empowering micro and small entrepreneurs across the

country to directly register their cases relating to delayed payments by Central

Ministries/Departments/CPSEs/State Governments.

The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Act, 2006 contains provisions to deal with cases

of delayed payment to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs).

As per the provisions, the buyer is liable to pay compound interest with monthly rests to the supplier on the amount

at three times of the bank rate notified by Reserve Bank in case he does not make payment to the supplier for the

supplies of goods or services within 45 days of the day of acceptance of the goods/service or the deemed day of

acceptance.

The Portal will give information about the pending payment of MSEs with individual CPSEs / Central Ministries,

State Governments, etc.

The CEO of PSEs and the Secretary of the Ministries concerned will also be able to monitor the cases of delayed

payment under their jurisdiction and issue necessary instructions to resolve the issues.

Ease of Doing Business Rankings

India has jumped 30 places to rank 100th in the World Bank’s ‘ease of doing business’ ranking, helped by a slew

of reforms in taxation, licensing, investor protection and bankruptcy resolution.

India is the only large country this year to have achieved such a significant shift. On the “distance to frontier metric,”

one of the key indicators in the survey, India’s score went from 56.05 in Doing Business 2017 to 60.76 in Doing

Business 2018

In its annual report ‘Doing Business 2018: Reforming to Create Jobs’, the World Bank said that India’s

ranking reflects nearly half of the 37 reforms, adopted since 2003, implemented in the last four years.

Areas where India lags

Starting a business, enforcing contracts and dealing with construction permits.

It takes 30 days now to register a new business, down from 127 days 15 years ago, but “the number of

procedures is still cumbersome for local entrepreneurs who still need to go through 12 procedures

New Zealand is the easiest place on the planet to do business, followed by Singapore, Denmark, South Korea

and Hong Kong. The US and the UK are ranked 6th and 7th on the list.

Among BRICS countries, Russia tops the list with 35th position, followed by China which has retained its

ranking at the 78th place for the second consecutive year.

Ease of doing business index: The ease of doing business index is an index created by the World Bank Group.

Higher rankings (a low numerical value) indicate better, usually simpler, regulations for businesses and stronger

protections of property rights. Empirical research funded by the World Bank to justify their work show that the

economic growth impact of improving these regulations is strong.

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Ministry of HUA ropes in private online service aggregator to promote jobs for

urban poor

Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs roped in a private online service aggregator, UrbanClap, to ensure

employment opportunities with minimum assured monthly wages for urban poor skilled under Deen Dayal

Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM).

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in this regard was today signed between the Ministry and UrbanClap in

the presence of Minister of Housing and Urban Affairs.

Under the MoU signed, UrbanClap will bring together demand for domestic services and the urban poor skilled

under DAY-NULM in 16 cities viz., Delhi, Gurgaon, Faridabad, Ghaziabad, Noida, Greater Mumbai, Thane, Navi

Mumbai, Pune, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad, Secunderabad, Bengaluru and Ahmedabad.

UrbanClap assures a minimum monthly earning of Rs.15,000 for plumbers, electricians and carpenters and

Rs.25,000 for appliance repair technicians, beauty therapists and Spa therapists.

September 2017 Northeast calling festival in Delhi, B2B summit prime focus

Aims at promoting art, culture, heritage, cuisine, handicrafts, business and tourism of the seven

sisters and Sikkim

The “North East Calling” event is being organised by the Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region

(DoNER), Government of India under its ‘Destination North East’ series of this year.

The purpose of the event is to promote the art, culture, heritage, cuisine, handicrafts, business and tourism of

North East India.

The Business to Business (B2B) conference is also being organised during the event. On the occasion, three

MoUs were also signed in the presence of the Minister.

“North East Venture Fund’, a joint initiative of Ministry of DoNER and North Eastern Development Finance

Corporation Ltd, that seeks to promote entrepreneurship and start-ups in the region.

NISARGRUNA Biogas plant – Based on Biodegradable waste resource

This plant can process biodegradable waste such as kitchen waste, paper, grass, gobar and dry leaves.

It offers Zero garbage and Zero effluent and provides high quality manure and methane gas.

Weedfree manure obtained from such waste has high nitrogen contents and acts as an excellent soil

conditioner.

This plant could be set up for ecofriendly disposal of wet-waste generated in kitchens/canteens of big

Hospitals/Hotels/Factories/residential complexes and can avoid health hazards due to dump sites.

This technology of biphasic biomethanation has high potential of solving the solid waste management

problems of the urban areas and provides organic manure and bio-gas as a fuel.

The waste is first segregated carefully to remove non-biodegradable material and then homogenized to make

a slurry. It is then processed in a sequential manner first by aerobic and then by anaerobic process. The

products of the process are biogas consisting of methane, carbon dioxide and water vapor & weed

free good quality manure. About 70% of Water can be recycled at the end of the process.

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Biomethanation is a process by which organic material is microbiologically converted under anaerobic conditions to

biogas. Three main physiological groups of microorganisms are involved: fermenting bacteria, organic acid oxidizing

bacteria, and methanogenic archaea.

Successful Flight Test of 3rd Generation Anti Tank Guided Missile – NAG

India’s indigenously developed 3rd generation Anti Tank Guided Missile (ATGM), Nag has been successfully flight

tested twice by DRDO against two different targets in the ranges of Rajasthan.

The ATGM Nag missile has successfully hit both the targets under different ranges and conditions with very

high accuracy as desired by the Armed Forces.

With these two successful flight trials, and the flight test conducted earlier in June in the peak of summer, the

complete functionality of Nag ATGM along with launcher system NAMICA has been established and marked

the successful completion of development trials of Nag Missile.

It is the mainly the 3rd generation Nag “fire-and-forget” anti-tank missile developed in India that is mounted on

BMP-2 tank. It is one of five missile systems developed by the Defence Research and Development

Organisation (DRDO) under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Program (IGMDP).

NAMICA (Nag Missile Carrier) launch vehicle for the land version of the Nag a third generation, all weather,

top-attack, fire-and-forget anti-tank missile with the Indian Army. It is based on the Sarath, the Indian built

version of the Russian BMP-2 tracked infantry combat vehicle and this has a total of eight Nag ATGW in the

ready to launch position, additional missiles being stowed inside. These can be reloaded from within the

vehicle under full armour protection.

Eastern Fleet Ships on Overseas Deployment to East and South-East Asia

The visit of Indian Naval Ships to East and South-East Asia underscores India’s peaceful presence and

harmonious relations with the countries in the region. The deployment aims to strengthen existing bonds between

India and the regional countries.

INS Satpura and INS Kadmatt departed Visakhapatnam visit 12 ports in Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia,

Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Philippines, South Korea, Japan, Brunei and Russia.

During this deployment, the ships will participate in the International Fleet Review hosted by the Association

of South East Asian Countries (ASEAN) at Thailand.

They will visit Singapore, Vietnam, Philippines, Cambodia and Brunei to commemorate the 25th anniversary

of India-ASEAN dialogue.

The ships will also participate in the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise at

Malaysia.

At Russia, the ships will participate in the annual India-Russia bilateral exercise INDRA.

MoU between India and Morocco on cooperation in the field of health

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and

Morocco on cooperation in the field of health.

The MoU covers the following areas of cooperation: Non-communicable diseases, including child cardiovascular

diseases and cancer: Drug Regulation and Pharmaceutical quality control; Communicable Diseases; Maternal,

child and neonatal health; Hospital twinning for exchange of good practices; Training in administration and

management of health services and Hospitals; Any other area of cooperation as may be mutually decided upon.

A Working Group will be set up to further elaborate the details of cooperation and to oversee the implementation

of this MoU.

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MoU between India & Armenia on Cooperation in the field of Disaster

Management

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and

Armenia on Cooperation in the field of Disaster Management. The MoU would enhance cooperation in the field of

Disaster Management and contribute to the well-being and safety of the people of both the countries in the event of

disaster.

It will also result in exchange of information in the relevant fields of disaster management which is of mutual

interest.

Further, the MoU will help in strengthening the areas of preparedness, response and capacity building.

The Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for introduction of the Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017 in the

Parliament.

The Amendment will increase the maximum limit of gratuity of employees, in the private sector and in Public Sector

Undertakings/ Autonomous Organizations under Government who are not covered under CCS (Pension) Rules,

at par with Central Government employees. The Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972 applies to establishments

employing 10 or more persons.

The main purpose for enacting this Act is to provide social security to workmen after retirement, whether retirement

is a result of the rules of superannuation, or physical disablement or impairment of vital part of the body.

Therefore, the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972 is an important social security legislation to wage earning population

in industries, factories and establishments.

The present upper ceiling on gratuity amount under the Act is Rs. 10 Lakh.

The provisions for Central Government employees under Central Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 1972 with regard

to gratuity are also similar.

However, with implementation of 7th Central Pay Commission, in case of Government servants, the ceiling now is

Rs. 20 Lakhs effective from 1.1.2016.

Therefore, considering the inflation and wage increase even in case of employees engaged in private sector, the

Government is of the view that the entitlement of gratuity should be revised for employees who are covered under

the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972.

Implementation of the scheme “Dairy Processing & Infrastructure

Development Fund”

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister has approved a Dairy Processing &

Infrastructure Development Fund” (DIDF).

Consequent to the Union Budget 2017-18 announcement, Dairy Processing & Infrastructure Development Fund

will be set up as a corpus of Rs 8004 crore with National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD).

The end borrowers will get the loan @ 6.5% per annum. The period of repayment will be 10 years with initial two

years moratorium.

The project will focus on building an efficient milk procurement system by setting up of chilling infrastructure &

installation of electronic milk adulteration testing equipment, creation/modernization/expansion of processing

infrastructure and manufacturing faculties for Value Added Products for the Milk Unions/ Milk Producer

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Conference on “Sustainable Landscapes & Forest Ecosystems: Theory to

Practice”And “Wood is Good” Campaign

Inaugurating a two-day conference on “Sustainable landscapes and forest ecosystems: Theory to Practice”, the

Environment Minister urged the gathering to deliberate and come out with out-of-the-box ideas and solutions on

increasing the forest cover much beyond the stipulated 33 per cent.

Reiterating the Government’s commitment to increase the country’s forest cover from 24% to 33% of the geographical

area and creating an additional carbon sink of 5 to 3 billion tons of CO2 equivalent in forests, as reflected in

Nationally Determined Contribution, that the target is proposed to be achieved through a number of planned

afforestation drives and initiatives.

MoEF launched the “Wood is Good” campaign on the occasion. Wood is a climate-friendly material, as it is a

renewable resource, having zero carbon footprint.

The Partnership for Land Use Science (Forest-Plus) is a joint programme by the United States Agency for

International Development (USAID) and Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEF&CC) to

strengthen capacity for REDD (Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation) implementation in

India.

The programme brings together experts from India and the United States to develop technologies, tools and

methods of forest management to meet the technical challenges of managing forests for the health of ecosystem,

carbon stocks, biodiversity and livelihood.

USAID: United States Agency for International Development is the lead U.S. Government agency that works to end

extreme global poverty and enable resilient, democratic societies to realize their potential.

REDD +: Reducing Emissions by Deforestation and Degradation It aims to incentivize developing countries to reduce

emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, conserve forest carbon stocks, sustainably manage forests and

enhance forest carbon stocks.

‘SWACHHTA’ Ranking – 2017 of Higher Educational Institutions

Save water & electricity, promote cleanliness and manage waste for Smart Campus – An award ceremony based on

‘SWACHHTA’ Ranking 2017 of Higher Educational Institutions was held in New Delhi today.

An exercise to rank Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) on the basis of cleanliness and hygiene has been

undertaken and concluded.

Parameters for a clean campus were formulated, like student/toilet ratio, kitchen hygiene, availability of running

water, modernity of toilet & kitchen equipment, campus green cover, garbage disposal in hostels and academic

buildings, disposal techniques, water supply systems and also a certain weightage to whether the institutions

has adopted any neighbouring locality or village to spread awareness & activities in Swachhta.

Clusters of villages have been adopted by certain HEIs under the Unnat Bharat Abhiyan programme in

consultation with District Collectors.

All Collectors and HEIs under the programme were invited to participate in the Best Collector & HEI Award by

converting, before 31st August 2017, One Village into Open Defecation Free, with solid and liquid waste facility.

Multi-Agency Exercise ‘Pralay Sahayam’

A multi-agency exercise was recently conducted on the banks of Hussain Sagar Lake as the final event of ‘Pralay

Sahayam’ in Hyderabad.

The event demonstrated efforts of all central and state agencies, National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF) and the Armed

Forces towards jointly tackling an urban flooding scenario in Hyderabad.

The exercise brought out the role and function of the State Emergency Operations in coordinating conduct of the

joint operations.

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The exercise emphasized the significance of early warning systems of agencies like Indian Meteorological

Department (IMD), National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) and Indian National Centre for Ocean Information

Services (INCOIS).

The exercise culminated with a static display which demonstrated the efficient and functional layout of a relief and

rehabilitation camp for the displaced persons.

Bharat ke Kaushalzaade

Rural Skills Division, Ministry of Rural Development has organized ‘Bharat ke Kaushalzaade’, an event

honouring beneficiaries of its key skilling programmes, on the eve of Antyodaya Diwas 2017.

The event aims to celebrate and honour beneficiaries from both of MoRD’s flagship skill development programmes

i.e. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY) and Rural Self Employment Training

Institutes (RSETI).

DDU-GKY not only offers industry relevant skill training to candidates, it also works closely with industry and

leading corporates to strengthen the post-training employment scenario for its trainees.

‘Kaushal Panjee’

The event also witnessed the mobilization platform launch, branded ‘Kaushal Panjee’ (Skill Register).

It aims to be citizen centric end-to-end solution to aid mobilization of candidates for RSETIs and DDU-GKY.

Kaushal Panjee is connected to the Social Economic Caste Census (SECC 2011) which will help the States

plan and target their mobilizations based on the socio-economic profile of households in their State.

Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana “Saubhagya”

The Prime Minister has launched a new scheme Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojana –“Saubhagya” to

ensure electrification of all willing households in the country in rural as well as urban areas.

The scheme funds the cost of last-mile connectivity to willing households to help achieve the goal of

lighting every household by 31 December 2018.

Despite the government’s aggressive village electrification programme, the Deen Dayal Upadhyay Gram Jyoti

Yojana launched in July 2015, under which 78% of 18,000 villages have been electrified, it was realised that the

problem of electricity ‘access’ wasn’t resolved. A village is declared to be electrified if 10% of the households are

given electricity along with public places such as schools, panchayat office, health centres, dispensaries and

community centres. With a large number of household still remaining without access to electricity, the scheme

aims at ensuring the coverage of households as opposed to only villages.

With no subsidy component for monthly electricity consumption, the Gram Panchayat and public institutions in

the rural areas will be authorised to carry out billing and collection tasks which have been pain points for the

discoms.

For those household where the national electricity grid can’t reach, households will be provided with solar

power packs along with battery banks. State-run Rural Electrification Corporation is the nodal agency for

the scheme.

Minimum Support Price for Minor Forest Produce

The National Workshop organized by TRIFED on “Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Minor Forest Produces

(MFP) scheme – Taking it to the next level for a Fair and Equitable Deal to the Tribals” Ministers of State for Tribal

Affairs.

TRIFED.

This workshop is a clarion call for understanding the gaps in the scheme of providing Minimum Support Price to

Minor Forest Produce and making course correction

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This workshop aims at expanding the horizon and taking it to all the States. MoU with Amazon is a step towards

expanding the reach of the 'Tribe India' brand to next level to National & International markets through e-

commerce.

“TRIBES INDIA” showrooms managed by TRIFED, offer a wide range of Tribal Products from different parts of

the country, which include Metal Craft, Tribal Textiles, Jewellery, Tribal Paintings, Cane & Bamboo, Pottery, Gifts

and Novelties, Organic and Natural products sourced from tribals at their places of habitats from higher Himalayas

(Bhutia tribes in the Uttrakhand, Bodh & Kinnaura tribes in Himachal Pradesh) in the North and (Toda & Irula Tribes

in Nilgiri Hills) in the South and from North Eastern States (Tangkhul Naga, Bodo, Konyak & Dimasa Tribes) to the

desert of Rajasthan and Rann of Kutch (Bhil, Garasia, Rathwa, Gamit Tribes ) in the West.

There is fabulous collection of tribal paintings mainly Saura from Orissa, Gond from Madhya Pradesh, Warli from

Maharashtra and Pithora from Gujarat.

“Electronic Negotiable Warehouse Receipt (e-NWR) System”

e-NWRs would have no chances of any tempering, mutilation, fudging, loss or damage and with no possibility of

any multiple financing.

These initiatives would revolutionise the marketing of agricultural commodities and help farmers realize better price

for their produce which will be a step towards doubling the farmers’ income by 2022.

NWRs will not only facilitate an easy pledge financing by banks and other financial institutions but also smooth

trading on various trading centres like commodity exchanges, electronic National Agriculture Markets (e-NAM) and

other electronic platforms.

e-NWRs will save expenditure in logistics as the stocks could be traded through multiple buyers without physical

movement and can be even split for partial transfer or withdrawal.

India Joins Race in 5G Ecosystem, Constitutes High Level Forum on 5G India

2020

Government has constituted High Level 5G India 2020 Forum.For India, 5G provides an opportunity for

industry to reach out to global markets, and consumers to gain with the economies of scale. Worldwide

countries have launched similar Forums and thus, India has joined the race in 5G technologies.

Technologies rollout will help in Increasing GDP, Creating Employment,Digitizing the economy.

The Term of Reference of the High Level Forum for 5G India 2020 shall be Vision Mission and Goals for

the 5G India 2020, and Evaluate, approve roadmaps & action plans for 5G India 2020.

The primary goals of the forum are to achieve early deployment of 5G in India and a globally competitive

product development and manufacturing ecosystem targeting 50% of India market and 10% of global market

over next 5 to 7 years.

Sujalam Sufalam Yojana

Linkage of rivers will help farmers to grow more crops and contribute in progress of the country

Gujarat Government has given concrete shape to the concept of river linkage and has linked Narmada and

Sabarmati rivers, so that more and more farmers are benefitted. He further said that he is fortunate to

inaugurate the Plaque for the Project Sujalam Sufalam Yojana’ (Water and Irrigation Projects).

Sujalam Suphalam Spreading Canal: The works of 332 K.M. long Sujalam Suphalam Spreading Canal, traversing

through seven districts from Mahi to Banas river which includes diversion of surplus flood water of Kadana Reservoir

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CARA launches monthly “Jan Sampark” Program to facilitate adoption

The Central Adoption Resource Authority (CARA) of the Ministry of Women & Child Development has started a monthly

“Jan Sampark” program to enable the public to have interaction with its officials and staff for seeking information

related to Adoption as well as flagging their concerns.

The first of its kind programme was held in New Delhi yesterday. Nearly 150 Prospective Adoptive Parents

(PAPs), Adoptive Parents and representatives of agencies participated in the session, which lasted for more

than four hours.

Details pertaining to Immediate Placement and Special Needs Adoption Module of Child Adoption Resource

Information & Guidance System (CARINGS) as well as the newly launched Grievance/Query portal were

shared with all the stakeholders. Also many of the PAPs were counselled and motivated to go for adopting

older children.

Cabinet approves umbrella scheme of Modernisation of Police Forces

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has given its approval for implementation

of umbrella scheme of "Modernisation of Police Forces (MPF)" for years 2017-18 to 2019-20.

Special provision has been made under the Scheme for internal security, law and order, women security,

availability of modern weapons, mobility of police forces, logistics support, hiring of helicopters, upgradation of

police wireless, National Satellite Network, CCTNS project, E-prison project etc.

Under the umbrella scheme, earmarked for internal security related expenditure for Jammu & Kashmir, North

Eastern States and left wing extremism affected States.

Implementation of this scheme would bolster the Government's ability to address challenges faced in different

theatres such as areas affected by LWE, Jammu and Kashmir and North East effectively and undertake

development interventions which will catalyze in improving the quality of life in these areas and help combat

these challenges effectively at the same time

The umbrella scheme also provides for setting up of a State-of Art forensic science laboratory in Amravati, Andhra

Pradesh and upgradation of Sardar Patel Global Centre for Security, Counter Terrorism and Anti Insurgency in

Jaipur and Gujarat Forensic Science University in Gandhi Nagar.

World Tourism Day( 27 September)

The President of India Shri Ram Nath Kovind presented the “National Tourism Awards, 2015-16” to various

segments of the travel, tourism and hospitality industry at a function organised by the Ministry of Tourism on the

occasion of “World Tourism Day” 27 September.

The President launched the “Incredible India 2.0 Campaign”; ‘Adopt A Heritage’ Project and new Incredible

India Website on the occasion:

“Incredible India 2.0 Campaign” marks a shift from the present generic promotions being undertaken across

the world, to market specific promotional plans and product specific creatives, with greater focus on digital

presence and social media.

‘Adopt A Heritage’ Project plans to entrust heritage sites to the public sector and private sector companies

and individuals for the development of tourist amenities. They will become ‘Monument Mitras’ and adopt bthe

sites.

Tourism is one of the largest industries in the world. Its evolution can be estimated from the fact that the number

of tourists all over the world has increased from 2.5 crore in 1950 to 123 crore in 2016. The tourism industry

contributes 10.2 percent of the world’s GDP.

The Travel & Tourism Competitiveness Report 2017

The World Economic Forum has, for the past 11 years, engaged leaders in travel and tourism to carry out

an in-depth analysis of the Travel and Tourism competitiveness of 136 economies across the world.

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The theme of this edition Paving the Way for a More Sustainable and Inclusive Future, reflects the

increasing focus on ensuring the industry’s sustained growth in an uncertain security environment

while preserving the natural environment and local communities on which it so richly depends.

Signing and ratification of the Bilateral Investment Treaty between India and

Belarus on investments

The Union Cabinet has given its approval for signing and ratification of the Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT)

between the India and Belarus on Investments.

The Treaty is likely to increase investment flows between the two countries. The agreement is expected to

improve the confidence of the investors resulting in an increase in FDI and Overseas Director Investment (ODI)

opportunities and this will have a positive impact on employment generation.

The signing and ratification of a BIT between the two countries will work as a strategic initiative as Belarus is

the member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

India has already initiated the BIT text with the Kyrgyz Republic and is in talks with the Russian Federation for

a new BIT, based on the Model BIT text.

BRICS Interbank Cooperation

The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has given its approval to the signing of the

Interbank Local Currency Credit Line Agreement and

Cooperation Memorandum Relating to Credit Ratings by Exim Bank with participating member banks under BRICS

Interbank Cooperation Mechanism.

The Agreements will promote multilateral interaction within the area of mutual interest which will deepen political

and economic relations with BRICS nations.

Signing of the Agreement will position Exim Bank in the international platform along with large development finance

institutions, like CDS, VEB and BNDES.

At an appropriate time, Exim Bank, leveraging this umbrella agreement, could enter into bilateral agreement

with any of these member institutions to raise resources for its business. As and when an opportunity arises

for co-financing in commercial terms, by any two member institutions (say India and South Africa), lending in single

currency by both the institutions would also be possible.

India registers significant decline in Infant Mortality Rate (IMR)

Gender gap reducing: Big boost to ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’

India has registered a significant decline in Infant Mortality Rate (IMR). According to the just released SRS bulletin,

IMR of India has declined by three points (8% decline), from 37 per 1000 live births in 2015 to 34 per 1000 live

births in 2016, compared to two points decline last year.

Not only this, India also recorded a major drop in birth cohort, which has for the first time come down to below 25

million.

According to the SRS Bulletin the gender gap in India for child survival is reducing steadily.

The gender difference between female and male IMR has now reduced to <10%, giving a major boost to

the ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’ scheme of the Government.

The results signify that the strategic approach of the Ministry has started yielding dividends and the efforts of

focusing on low performing States is paying off.

Among the EAG States and Assam, all States except Uttarakhand have reported decline in IMR in comparison to

2015. The decline is reported as 4 points in Bihar, 3 points in Assam, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and

Jharkhand and two points decline in Chhattisgarh, Odisha and Rajasthan

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India Playing a Leadership Role in Wildlife Management by Involving Local

Communities

India Hosts Global Wildlife Programme to Address Illegal Wildlife Trade

In an attempt to address illegal wildlife trade across 19 countries of Asia and Africa, India is hosting the Global Wildlife

Programme (GWP) jointly with World Bank and United Nations Development Programme. Union Minister of

Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

Coinciding with the ‘Wildlife Week’, the theme of the Conference is – “Peoples’ participation in wildlife

conservation”. The meeting will bring about strengthened cooperation between India and the 18 GWP

countries in better management of wildlife habitats and minimizing human-wildlife conflict situations. It will

also enable India to strengthen its enforcement mechanism to control illicit trade.

The GWP will hold discussions on management of wildlife habitat, securing sustainable community livelihood,

enhancing enforcement, monitoring, cooperation to reduce wildlife crimes such as poaching and related

threats.

The Conference will provide an opportunity for India to showcase its conservation efforts through joint forest

management, vana sanrakshan samitis, eco-development committees in and around Protected Areas.

Successful Development Trials of Astra Missile

The final Development Flight Trials of Astra – Beyond Visual Range Air to Air Missile (BVRAAM) were successfully

conducted over the Bay of Bengal, Off the Coast of Chandipur, Odisha during 11-14 Sep 2017.

A total of seven trials were conducted against Pilotless Target Aircrafts (PTA) successfully.

The missions included engagement of target at very long range, engagement of high manoeuvring target at

medium range and multiple launches of missiles in salvo to engage multiple targets.

All the sub-systems including the indigenous RF Seeker performed accurately, meeting all the mission

parameters and objectives. Two missiles were also launched in the combat configuration with warhead and

the targets were neutralized.

This effort for building a state-of-the-art BVRAAM by Defence Research and Development Organisation

(DRDO), together with Indian Air Force (IAF) has completed the development phase of the weapon system

successfully.

More than 50 public and private industries have contributed in building the Astra weapon system.

President of India launches ‘Swachhta hi Seva’ Campaign

The President of India, Shri Ram Nath Kovind, launched a nationwide sanitation campaign, ‘Swachhta hi

Seva’, at Ishwariganj village in Kanpur (September 15, 2017).

India Signs 76 Million US Dollar Loan Deal with Japan International

Cooperation Limited

The Government of India signed a loan deal worth $76 million with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA)

today, for a project to upgrade the environment management plan at Alang-Sosiya ship recycling yards.

Benefits of this project This project will help the Alang-Sosia ship-recycling yards to comply with international safety & environmental

regulations.

This will attract more business at the recycling facilities at Alang, thereby further consolidating India’s share in the

global ship-recycling industry.

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This project will also help in safeguarding the marine and coastal environment. The use of advanced

decontamination technology will rule out the possibility of fire accidents in oil and chemical tankers, thereby

ensuring workers safety.

The project is expected to result in increase in direct employment from 50,000 to 92,000 people and in-direct

employment from 1.5 lakhs to 3 lakh people.

30th Anniversary of Montreal protocol and 23rd World Ozone Day Celebrated

30th anniversary of the Montreal Protocol and 23rd World Ozone Day on 16th September,

theme – “Caring for all life under the Sun”,

A Pan-India awareness campaign launched by the Environment Ministry on the occasion.

This campaign was among the most widespread engagements of the Ministry for awareness generation, carried

out with the active partnership of States through schools and academic/research institutions spread across the

country.

The awareness campaign saw a participation of about 28 lakh students in more than 13, 000 schools and reached

out to 214 districts across 16 states of the country. The Minister also spoke of the strong policy leadership given

by India during the negotiations for the Kigali Amendment to the Montreal Protocol.

THE MONTREAL PROTOCOL ON SUBSTANCES THAT DEPLETE THE OZONE LAYER Montreal Protocol, formally Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, international treaty,

adopted in Montreal on Sept. 16, 1987, that aimed to regulate the production and use of chemicals that contribute

to the depletion of Earth’s ozone layer.

The meeting called for international cooperation in research to convention of Ozone layer Involving ozone-depleting chemicals (ODCs) and

Empowered the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) to lay the groundwork for the Montreal

Protocol.

A BRIEF BACKGROUND of MONTREAL PROTOCOL The year 2017 marks the 30th Anniversary of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer.

The Montreal Protocol is one of the most successful global environmental treaties, the implementation of which

has not only led to the phase-out of around 98% of ozone depleting chemicals, but also averted more than 135

billion tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent emissions.

Nearly 2 million cases of skin cancer per year have been averted globally. The Montreal Protocol is the only

environmental treaty which enjoys universal ratification of 197 UN member countries.

During the Kigali negotiations, India piloted the concept of two base lines and a differentiated phased down time

schedule to factor in the needs of developing countries. This was the first time in the Montreal Protocol that

the concept of two baseline has been adopted both for developed and developing countries.

INDO-USA Joint Exercise Yudh Abhyas – 2017

Exercise Yudh Abhyas – 2017, a joint military exercise between Indian and US armies commenced at Joint Base

Lewis McChord, Washington, USA. In inaugural remarks were highlighted the common shared beliefs of

democracy, freedom, equality and justice that are precious to both the nations.

During the two-week long exercise soldiers from both countries will hone their tactical skills in counter insurgency

and counter terrorist operations under a joint brigade headquarter.

The New Intelligence Set-up of SSB

Union Home Minister operationalised the New Intelligence Set-up of the Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB). This marked

the culmination of a long pending aspiration of the Force following approval of the Union Home Minister.

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SSB has been mandated with the responsibility of guarding the Indo- Nepal and Indo-Bhutan borders where

there are no restrictions on the movement of people on either side. The border population on both sides have

strong regional, cultural and economic ties.

SSB has been declared as the Lead Intelligence Agency (LIA) for both the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan

borders.

Thus, it was felt that a well-knit intelligence network of the highest capabilities that can function and deliver

would be the prime requirement of comprehensive Border Management.

This was quite essential as the operations of SSB have to be Intelligence based so as to prevent criminals

and smugglers from taking advantage of the friendly borders with Nepal and Bhutan.

WARB: On the occasion, the Union Home Minister launched the Welfare and Rehabilitation Board (WARB) Mobile

App for CAPF personnel to facilitate retired CAPFs and Assam Rifles personnel to get their genuine grievances

redressed, seek skill development training through National Skill Development Corporation under “Pradhan Mantri

Kaushal Vikas Yojana, re-employment and other relevant and important information.

‘Sanrakshan’ scheme: SSB Wives’ Welfare Association “SANDIKSHA” has taken up the task to help out wards of

such martyrs under the ‘Sanrakshan’ scheme. “SANDIKSHA” is providing financial help to children of martyrs who

are still studying in school, colleges and universities to continue their studies.

1st AICTE-ECI Chhatra Vishwakarma Awards -2017

All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) and Engineering Council of India (ECI), felicitated the award winners

of “AICTE-ECI Chhatra Vishwakrma Awards” of AICTE approved Degree & Diploma level Technical

Institutions/Universities.

The ‘AICTE-ECI Chhatra Vishwakarma Awards’ are an epitome for motivating individuals and institutions/

organizations to raise their performance in their specific domains leading to significant contribution towards

the growth & development of the nation.

These Awards are given in following categories separately for Degree and Diploma Students (including students from

AICTE approved Community College) for providing an innovative solution “To convert existing institutes into smart

institute using innovative approaches:

Category-I: Outstanding Student Engineers (3 Awards each in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Electronics

Engineering, Computer Science and Biotechnology streams or their allied branches)

Category-II: Outstanding Teachers Awards (3 Awards each in Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Electronics

Engineering, Computer Science and Biotechnology streams or their allied branches)

Category-III: Outstanding Institutions Awards (3 Awards) based on the maximum number of awards won from

the above two categories and other criteria.

‘Anubhav’

‘Anubhav’ – a platform for retiring employees for sharing their experience of working with Government.

Moving ahead from e-governance to m-governance, a Mobile App has been created to avail the services of Pensioners’

Portal

It is to create awareness about the post-retirement entitlements as well as an advance planning for life after retirement.

Attaining New Heights in Biotechnology

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under the Ministry of Science & Technology, has taken many steps to brings

about a paradigm shift in biotechnology in the country’s North-East Region (NER).

Eyeing an inclusive growth, DBT has announced a series of new programs and missions to turn this

into a reality.

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DBT has established a dedicated ‘North Eastern Region Biotechnology Programme Management Cell (NER-

BPMC)’, with an annual investment of Rs. 180 crores, to evolve, implement and foster biotechnology research

in the north east states.

They are, 1. Phyto-Pharma Plant Mission: This is a Rs 50 crore Mission aimed at conservation and cultivation of

endangered and threatened endemic medicinal plants, and discovery of new botanical drugs for unmet

medical needs using the rich traditional ethno-botanical knowledge and biodiversity of these

states and at the same time also improve availability of authentic and quality botanical raw material on

sustainable basis for a boom in the phyto-pharmaceutical industry.

2. Brahmaputra Biodiversity and Biology Boat (B4) on the Brahmaputra River, a major ecology hotspot, in

NER, in collaboration with DONER, B4 will establish a large barge on the river with a well-equipped

laboratory for analysis of all components of the entire ecosystem of the river and surroundings.

3. Frugal microscopy through the Foldscope: a frugal microscope assembled from simple components,

including a sheet of paper and a lens, is acting as a tool connecting students and science from the region,

with the rest of the country.

“Hunar Haat”

“Hunar Haat” was organised in Puducherry from 24th to 30th September 2017 to provide market and

opportunity to master artisans belonging to the Minority communities.

The Ministry of Minority Affairs has organized “Hunar Haat” earlier also at different places. Recently, “Hunar Haat” had

been organized at Baba Kharak Singh Marg, Cannaught Place in New Delhi.

New PPP Policy to promote private investments in affordable housing

Central Government has announced a new PPP Policy for Affordable Housing that allows extending central assistance

of up to Rs.2.50 lakh per each house to be built by private builders even on private lands besides opening up immense

potential for private investments in affordable housing projects on government lands in urban areas.

This policy seeks to assign risks among the government, developers and financial institutions, to those who

can manage them the best besides leveraging under utilized and un-utilized private and public lands towards

meeting the Housing for All target by 2022.

The policy gives eight PPP (Public Private Partnership) options for private sector to invest in affordable housing

segment.

Eight PPP options, including six for promoting affordable housing with private investments using government

lands have been evolved after extensive consultations with States, promoter bodies and other stakeholders.

Two models using private lands

The two PPP models for private investments in affordable housing on private lands include extending central

assistance of about Rs.2.50 lakh per each house as interest subsidy on bank loans as upfront payment under

the Credit Linked Subsidy Component (CLSS) component of Pradhan Mantri Awas yojana (Urban).

Under the second option, central assistance of Rs.1.50 lakh per each house to be built on private lands would

be provided, in case the beneficiaries do not intend to take bank loans.

The six models using government lands are DBT Model, Mixed Development Cross –subsidized Housing:

Annuity Based Subsidized Housing; Direct Relationship Ownership Housing; Direct Relationship Rental

Housing.

Under these six Government land-based PPP models, beneficiaries can avail central assistance of Rs.1.00 to Rs.2.50

lakh per house as provisioned under different components of PMAY(Urban). Beneficiaries will be identified as per

the norms of PMAY(Urban).

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NITI Aayog’s SATH Program launched in Assam

National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog’s SATH (Sustainable Action for Transforming Human capital)

Program was launched in in Guwahati, Assam. The SATH program aims to provide structured support to Assam in

identifying key health priorities and implement the solutions towards transforming the health and improving the well-

being of people of state.

SATH program

The vision of SATH program is to initiate transformation in education and health sectors.

It embodies the philosophy of co-operative federalism to addresses the need expressed by many states for

technical support from NITI Aayog.

The program will be implemented by NITI along with McKinsey & Company and IPE Global consortium, who

were selected through a competitive bidding process.

SATH Program aims to build three selected states viz. Assam, Uttar Pradesh and Karnataka as future ‘role model’

states for health systems. Under it, NITI Aayog will work in close collaboration with state machinery in these three

selected states to design a robust roadmap of intervention, develop program governance structure, set up monitoring

and tracking mechanisms, handhold state institutions through the execution stage and provide support on a range of

institutional measures to achieve the end objectives.

August 2017 Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)

The 19th round of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Trade Negotiating Committee

(TNC) meetings and other related meetings were held in Hyderabad, India.

Besides 19thround of TNC meet, Parallel meetings were held by the three main Working Groups on Trade in

Goods, Trade in Services and Investment, including their respective Sub-Working Groups. Working Groups in

other areas like Intellectual Property, electronic commerce, Legal and Institutional Issues etc. also had their

meetings.

During the meeting, all RCEP Participating Countries (RPCs) agreed that a good RCEP agreement has immense

potential to deliver on new economic opportunities including job creation that are much needed in today’s world of

uncertainty.

The Meeting expressed shared commitment to work collectively and in a cooperative manner, to progress the

negotiations in an accelerated way, and achieve a modern, comprehensive, high-quality and mutually beneficial

agreement that addresses and balances the aspirations and sensitivities of participating countries.

Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) is a proposed free trade agreement (FTA) between the

ten member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the six states with which include

India, China, Australia, Japan, South Korea and New Zealand.

ZED Scheme for MSMEs

The Government has launched a new scheme “Financial Support to MSMEs in ZED Certification Scheme”.

The objective of the scheme is to Promotion of Zero Defect and Zero Effect (ZED) manufacturing amongst

micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and ZED Assessment for their certification so as to Develop

an Ecosystem for Zero Defect Manufacturing in MSMEs.

The announcement of Make in India and Zero Defect Zero Effect put in perspective the governments’ intent to

change the course of economy by focusing on manufacturing as an engine to sustained growth. In order to build

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the ecosystem to implement the idea to enable the advancement of Indian industry to a position of eminence in

the global marketplace and leverage India’s emergence as the world’s supplier through the ‘Made in India’ mark.

Development of Cold Chains

Government is implementing Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) for development of

horticulture including post harvest management.

Under the mission assistance is provided for development of all relevant infrastructure including pack house,

pre-cooling units, staging cold room, cold storages, controlled atmosphere (CA) storage, reefer vans,

primary/mobile processing units and setting up of ripening chambers etc. to promote logistic integration with

the aim to reduce losses across total supply chain and enable farmers to access markets to get remunerative

prices for their produce.

BRICS Agriculture Research Platform

The Union Cabinet has given its ex-post facto approval for a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed among

India and various BRICs countries for establishment of the BRICS Agriculture Research Platform (BRICS-ARP).

The Centre will promote sustainable agricultural development and poverty alleviationthrough strategic

cooperation in agriculture to provide food security in the BRICS member countries.

BRICS-ARP will be the natural global platform for science-led agriculture-based sustainable development for

addressing the issues of world hunger, under-nutrition, poverty and inequality, particularly between farmers’ and

non-farmers’ income, and enhancing agricultural trade, bio-security and climate resilient agriculture.

MAA-Mother’s Absolute Affection

To intensify the efforts further for promotion of breastfeeding, the Health Ministry has initiated a nationwide

programme called “MAA-Mother’s Absolute Affection’’ to bring undiluted focus on promotion of breastfeeding and

provision of services towards supporting breastfeeding, along with ongoing efforts of routine health systems.

The key components of the MAA programme are awareness generation, promotion of breastfeeding &

inter personal counselling at community level, skilled support for breastfeeding at delivery points and

monitoring and Award/ recognition of health facility.

Under this programme, ASHA has been incentivized for reaching out to pregnant and lactating mothers and

provide information on benefits and techniques of successful breastfeeding during interpersonal communication.

Breastfeeding Week is observed in the first week of August to focus attention on the important aspect of promotion

and support of breastfeeding. The theme of this year’s breastfeeding week is ‘Sustaining Breastfeeding’.

Lateral entry in civil services

NITI Aayog in the Three Year Action Agenda for 2017-2020 has recommended for inducting specialists into the

system through lateral entry in policy making areas on fixed term contract. This recommendation along with

suggestions received from other quarters is under consideration.

Government Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill in news

With a view to putting a check and bring transparency in the use of surrogacy, the Government has recently

introduced Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016 in the Lok Sabha, which stands referred to the Department Related

Parliamentary Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare.

As per clause (iii) b (II) of Section 4 contained in chapter 3 of the proposed Bill, no person other than a close

relative of the intending couple shall act as a surrogate mother for altruistic purpose.

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The Bill permits surrogacy only for couples who cannot conceive a child. This procedure is not allowed in

case of any other medical conditions which could prevent a woman from giving birth to a child.

The surrogate mother and the intending couple need eligibility certificates from the appropriate authority. The Bill

does not specify a time limit within which such certificates will be granted. It also does not specify an appeal

process in case the application is rejected.

For an abortion, in addition to complying with the Medical Termination of Pregnancy Act, 1971, the

approval of the appropriate authority and the consent of the surrogate mother is required. The Bill does not

specify a time limit for granting such an approval. Further, the intending couple has no say in the consent to abort.

ISRO and CSIR-NPL sign MoU for time and frequency traceability services

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) Telemetry Tracking and Command Network (ISTRAC) and CSIR-

National Physical Laboratory (NPL) signed Memorandum of understanding (MOU) to make indigenous regional

position.

The MoU will help the NAVIC to get formally synchronized with the Indian Standard Time (IST) which is

being maintained by the Delhi-based NPL Company.

It will also help in making NAVIC to get fully operational in the market for commercial purposes as time

synchronisation is essential for all kinds of services such as financial transactions, digital archiving, stock handling,

time stamping, national security or prevention of cyber-crimes etc.

“BHARAT 22”

The Union Finance Ministry has launched second exchange-traded fund (ETF), named Bharat 22 It will help

to speed up Government’s disinvestment programme budgeted to raise a record Rs 72,500 crore in the FY

2018.

Bharat 22 is a well-diversified ETF spanning six sectors — basic materials, energy, finance, industrials, FMCG

and utilities.

The sector wise weightage in the Bharat 22 Index is basic materials (4.4%), energy (17.5%), finance (20.3%),

FMCG (15.2%), industrials (22.6%), and utilities (20%).

The first CPSE ETF was launched in March 2014. The first CPSE ETF consisted of stocks of 10 public sector

entities. It is currently managed by Reliance Capital Ltd. Government was able to raise Rs. 8,500 crore by selling

it in three tranches.

“Samvad"- Global Initiative on Conflict Avoidance and Environment

Consciousness

“Samvad”- Global Initiative on Conflict Avoidance and Environment Consciousness– Second edition of

conference is being held at Yangon, Myanmar.

“Samvad” or “dialogue” helps to cut through deep rooted religious stereotypes and prejudices that divide

communities across the world and Sow seeds of conflict between nations and societies.

Measles-Rubella (MR) Campaign

India, along with ten other WHO South East Asia Region member countries, have resolved to eliminate measles

and control rubella/congenital rubella syndrome (CRS) by 2020.

In this direction, Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has initiated measles-rubella (MR) vaccination campaign in

the age group of 9 months to less than 15 years in a phased manner across the nation.

The campaign aims to cover approximately 41 crore children and is going to be the largest ever vaccination

campaign worldwide. All children from 9 months to less than 15 years of age will be given a single shot of Measles-

Rubella (MR) vaccination during the campaign.

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Roadmap for Next Three Years for Evergreen Revolution

The NITI Aayog has drafted the three years action plan for all the sectors including agriculture. The action plan

on agriculture deals with remunerative prices for farmers and raising productivity.

Increase in production of Pulses National Food Security Mission (NFSM-Pulses) is being implemented in 638

districts of 29 States in the country. Under this scheme, new initiatives have been taken up during 2016-17 i.e.,

creation of seed hubs, breeder seed production, minikit distribution, cluster frontline demonstrations etc.

Use of wasteland PMKSY is principally for development of rainfed portions of net cultivated & culturable

wastelands.

Seed Village programme to upgrade the quality of farmer’s saved seeds the financial assistance for distribution

of foundation/certified seeds at 50% cost of the seeds for cereal crops and 60% for pulses, oilseeds, fodder and

green manure crops for production of quality seeds is now available for one acre per farmer.

Certified Seed Production of Pulses, oilseeds, Fodder & Green Manure crops through Seed Village Under

this component the financial assistance for distribution of foundation seeds at 75% cost of the seeds for pulses,

oilseeds, fodder and green manure crops for production of Certified Seeds is available for the farmers.

Model Contract Farming Act In pursuance of announcement in the Union budget 2017-18, Ministry of Agriculture

and Farmers’ Welfare has constituted a Committee on 28.02.2017 to formulate a Model Contract Farming Act for

adoption by the States. This Model Act on Contract Farming would address the constraints in promoting contract

farming in a holistic manner by the States.

Environment In News

To achieve the targets mentioned in the National Forest Policy to maintain 33% forest and tree cover in the country

government is implementing two major afforestation/tree plantation schemes i.e. National Afforestation

Programme (NAP) scheme and National Mission for a Green India (GIM)

NAP is being implemented for afforestation of degraded forest lands

GIM aims at improving the quality of forest/increase in forest cover, besides cross-sectoral activities on

landscape basis.

An area of about 21 lakh ha has been approved for new afforestation with an investment of around Rs. 3700 crore

under NAP since inception in 2000, till 2016-17. Under GIM an amount of Rs.174 crore has been released since

2011-12 to 2016-17 for preparatory and perspective plan.

The fund under Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority(CAMPA), interalia,

is also used in plantation activity including compensatory afforestation to give a massive thrust to afforestation

activity in the country.

The Central Government in exercise of powers conferred under Section 3 (3) of the Environment

(Protection) Act, 1986constituted Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority

(CAMPA).

e-Green Watch:- Since the primary function of CAMPA is the regeneration of vegetation cover and promoting

afforestation as a way of compensating for forest land which is diverted to non-forest uses.

The project e-Green Watch extensively relates to online monitoring of various afforestation works being carried

out using CAMPA funds. It involves design and development of a web-based, role-based workflow applications

and integrated information system which shall enable automating various functions and activities related to

monitoring and transparency in the use of CAMPA funds and various works sanctioned in the Annual Plan of

Operations (State CAMPA) approved by the State Authorities.

Biosphere Reserve:-“Biosphere Reserve (BR) is an international designation by UNESCO for representative

parts of natural and cultural landscapes extending over large area of terrestrial or coastal/ marine ecosystems

or a combination thereof. There are 18 Biosphere Reserves in the Country

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Man and Biosphere (MAB):- UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere Programme (MAB) is an Intergovernmental

Scientific Programme that aims to establish a scientific basis for the improvement of relationships between people

and their environments.

The Biosphere Reserve Programme is guided by UNESCO Man and Biosphere (MAB) programme as India is a

signatory to the landscape approach supported by MAB programme.

A scheme called Biosphere Reserve is being implemented by Government of India since 1986, in which financial

assistance is given in 90:10 ratio to the North Eastern Region States and three Himalayan states and in the ratio

of 60:40 to other states for maintenance, improvement and development of certain items.

The State Government prepares the Management Action Plan which is approved and monitored by Central MAB

Committee.

Environment Minister launches ‘Gaj Yatra’ to mark World Elephant Day 2017

A nationwide campaign to protect elephants was launched by Union Environment minster on occasion of World

Elephant Day.The campaign is planned to cover 12 elephant range

World Elephant Day is a yearly worldwide occasion celebrated over the world on August 12, committed to the

safeguarding and assurance of elephants.

African elephantsare listed as “vulnerable” and Asian elephants as “endangered” in theIUCN Red List of

threatened species.

Economic Survey 2016-17 Volume-2 : State of the Economy – An Analytical

Overview and Outlook for Policy

The Survey notices a rekindled optimism on structural reforms in Indian economy.

Various factors such as Launch of the GST; Positive impacts of demonetization; Decision in principle to privatize

Air India; Further rationalization of energy subsidies and Actions to address the Twin Balance Sheet (TBS)

challenge contribute to this optimism.

The document also adds that a growing confidence that macro-economic stability has become entrenched is

evident because of a series of government and RBI actions and because of structural changes in the oil market

have reduced the risk of sustained price increases.

However the Survey cautions that anxiety reigns because a series of deflationary impulses are weighing on an

economy, yet to gather its full momentum and still away from its potential.

These include: stressed farm revenues, as non-cereal food prices have declined; farm loan waivers and the fiscal

tightening they will entail; and declining profitability in the power and telecommunication sectors, further

exacerbating the TBS problem.

What are the Impacts? Examining if India is undergoing a structural shift in the inflationary process toward low inflation, the Survey notes

that the oil market is very different today than a few years ago in a way that imparts a downward bias to oil prices,

or at least has capped the upside risks to oil prices.

Also Farm loan waivers could reduce aggregate demand by as much as 0.7 percent of GDP, imparting a significant

deflationary shock to an economy.

Spurt in New Tax Payers and Reported Income after Demonetization; 5.4 lakh New Tax Payers Post-

Demonetization.

Demonetization’s impact on the informal economy increased demand for social insurance, particularly in

less developed states.

MGNREGS and its implementation by the Government have met the programme’s stated role of being a social

safety net during times of need. It also adds that sustaining current growth trajectory will require action on

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more normal drivers of growth such as investment and exports and cleaning up of balance sheets to

facilitate credit growth.

The ratio of stressed companies in the power sector (defined as the share of debt owed by companies with an

interest coverage (IC) ratio of less than 1) has been steadily rising this year, reaching 70 percent, with an

associated vulnerable debt of over Rs. 3.6 lakh crore. The telecommunications sector has experienced its own

version of the “renewables shock” in the form of a new entrant that has dramatically reduced prices for, and

increased access to, data, thereby benefitting—at least in the short run— consumers; after launching of services

by the new entrant in September 2016, the average revenue per user (ARPU) for the industry on aggregate has

come down by 22 percent vis-à-vis the long term (December 2009-June 2016) ARPU, and by about 32 percent

since September 2016.

As regards Outlook for Growth 2017-18, Survey (Volume I) had forecast a range for real GDP growth of 6.75

percent to 7.5 percent for FY 2018. For Outlook for Prices & Inflation 2017-18, the Survey notes the outlook for

inflation in the near-term will be determined by a number of proximate factors, including:

The outlook for capital flows and exchange rate which in turn will be influenced by the outlook and policy in

advanced economies, especially the US; the recent nominal exchange rate appreciation; the monsoon; the

introduction of the GST; the 7th Pay Commission awards; likely farm loan waivers; and the output gap

The document says that the fact that current inflation is running well below the 4 percent target, suggests that

inflation by March 2018 is likely to be below the RBI’s medium-term target of 4 percent.

As regards Review of Economic Developments 2016-17, the Survey notes that Real economy grew by 7.1 per cent in 2016-17 compared with 8 percent the previous year.

This growth suggested that the economy was relatively resilient to the large liquidity shock of demonetization which

reduced cash in circulation by 22.6 percent in the second half of 2016-17. The apparent resilience was even more

marked in nominal growth magnitudes because both nominal GVA and GDP growth accelerated by over 1

percentage point in 2016-17 compared with 2015-16.

Annual inflation averaged 5.9 per cent in 2014-15 and has since declined to 4.5 per cent in FY 2017. More dramatic

have been developments during 2016-17- inflation declined sharply from 6.1 percent in July 2016 to 1.5 percent

in June 2017.

The sharp dip in WPI inflation in late FY 2015 and throughout FY 2016 owed to the deceleration in global

commodities prices, especially crude oil prices. With global commodity prices recovering and the ‘base effect’

(low inflation in the previous year) giving an upward push, wholesale inflation perked up during FY 2017

With the green shoots slowly becoming visible in merchandise trade, and robust capital flows, the external position

appears robust, reflected inter alia in rising reserves and a strengthening exchange rate.

The current account deficit narrowed in 2016-17 to 0.7 percent of GDP, down from 1.1 percent of GDP the previous

year, led by the sharp contraction in trade deficit which more than outweighed the decline in net invisibles

Export growth turned positive after a gap of two years and imports contracted marginally, so that India’s trade

deficit narrowed to 5.0 per cent of GDP (US$ billion) in FY 2017 as compared to 6.2 per cent (US$ 130.1 billion)

in the previous year.

Push for law to ensure transparency rules

The government could consider introducing a new law to ensure transparency of rules.

Present problems faced by citizens: it is not easy for ordinary citizens [and businesses] in India to navigate the

multitude of rules, regulations, forms, taxes and procedures imposed by various tiers of government. Moreover,

these rules frequently change and sometimes contradict each other

Transparency of Rules Act (TORA)– recommended by the Economic Survey, stressing that the ‘opaque mesh’

of regulations prevalent in India not only make life difficult for citizens who cannot feign ignorance of the rules as

a valid defence, but also act as a magnet for corruption and endless litigation.

The TORA is an attempt to change in some ways the relationship between the average normal citizen and the

State.

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A single non-lapsable corpus fund for Secondary and Higher education

The Union has accorded its approval for creation of a non-lapsable pool in the Public Account for secondary and

higher, education known as “Madhyamik and Uchchtar Shiksha Kosh” (MUSK) into which all proceeds of

“Secondary and Higher Education Cess” will be credited.

The funds arising from the MUSK would be utilized for schemes in the education sector which would be available

for the benefit of students of secondary and higher education, all over the country.

Administration and maintenance of the above pool by Ministry of Human Resource Development.

Accruals from the Cess would be utilized in the ongoing schemes of Secondary and Higher Education. However,

the Ministry of Human Resources Development can allocate funds for any future programme/scheme of secondary

and higher education, based on the requirement, as per prescribed procedure,

In any financial year, the expenditure on ongoing schemes of the Department of School Education & Literacy and

Department of Higher Education would be initially incurred from the gross budgetary support (GBS) and the

expenditure would be financed from the MUSK only after the GBS is exhausted.

The MUSK would be maintained as a Reserve Fund in the non-interest bearing section of the Public

Accounts of India.

India signs Global Environment Facility (GEF) Grant Agreement

A Grant Agreement from the Global Environment Facility (GEF) of the World Bank of USD 24.64 million for

“Ecosystem Service Improvement Project” was signed.

The size of Project is USD 24.64 million which entirely will be financed by the World Bank out of its GEF Trust

Fund. The project’s duration is 05 years.

The objective of the Project is to strengthen the institutional capacity of the Departments of Forestry and

Community Organisations to enhance forest ecosystem services and improve the livelihoods of forest dependent

communities in Central Indian Highlands.(Objectives: Mission For Green India)

The development objective of the Ecosystem Services Improvement Project for India is to improve forest quality,

land management and non-timber forest produce (NTFP) benefits for forest dependent communities in selected

landscapes in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh.

The proposed Global Environment Facility (GEF) project will be implemented in close coordination with Green

India Mission (GIM) on three components

Capacity building (training and technical assistance);

Enhancement of forest carbon stocks through forest quality improvement approaches and improved livelihoods

for forest dependent communities (interventions); and

Reversal of land degradation on private land holdings and common property resource lands through

development of models and capacity for scaling up of sustainable land management practices (interventions).

National Consultation on Data Generation for Gender Indicators for

Sustainable Development Goals, 2017

To explore actionable steps in this direction, MoSPI is organizing a two-day National Consultation on Data

Generation for Gender Indicators of Sustainable Development Goals in collaboration with UN Women on 21-22

August, 2017 in New Delhi.

The consultation will enhance ownership of data generation and data utilization, by providing a platform for the

stakeholders to discuss the way forward on how to address the gaps in gender indicators for SDGs.

To apprise Central social sector ministries and state governments about the need for gender indicators and

gender statistics for the Vision 2030 for SDGs.

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To discuss the way forward with national and state government stakeholders to monitor the national gender

indicators for the SDGs

While the National Consultation is being led by MoSPI, it is involving Central Ministries, officers from the State/UT

Governments, namely from the Directorate of Economics & Statistics and Department concerned with women’s

issues.

India is a signatory to the “Transforming our World: the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”

resolution (2030 Agenda) adopted by the United Nations in 2015.

This 2030 Agenda consists of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 Targets.

While Goal 5 is a standalone goal to “Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls”, gender is

mainstreamed throughout the agenda.

Delegation of Powers to Border Roads Organisation

The Border Road Organisation (BRO), which functions under the Ministry of Defence since 2015, is mainly tasked

with constructing roads to difficult and inaccessible regions in the borders of the country.

In order to ensure quicker construction of roads and to plug the gaps in critical infrastructure in the border areas

and to avoid delays in the works, the defence ministry has approved delegation of powers to Border Roads

Organisation.

This step is in line to usher in financial autonomy and bring transformational changes in the BRO. As per the new

delegation regulations, a chief engineer in the BRO can give administrative approval of works up to Rs. 50 crore

as compared to Rs. 10 crore earlier, an ADGBR can give administrative approval of works up to Rs. 75 crore as

compared to Rs. 20 crore earlier and DGBR can give administrative approval of works up to Rs. 100 crore as

compared to Rs.50 crore earlier.

The new delegation regulations allow the entire tendering process including acceptance of bids to be completed

at the level of Chief Engineer/ADGBR for a majority of the contracts.

India’s Exclusive Rights to Explore Polymetallic Nodules

India’s exclusive rights to explore polymetallic nodules from seabed in Central Indian Ocean Basin (CIOB) have

been extended by five years.

These rights are over 75000 sq. km of area in international waters allocated by International Seabed Authority for

developmental activities for polymetallic nodules.

The estimated polymetallic nodule resource potential is 380 million tonnes, containing 4.7 million tonnes of nickel,

4.29 million tonnes of copper and 0.55 million tonnes of cobalt and 92.59 million tonnes of manganese.

This has been approved unanimously in the 23rd session of International Seabed Authority (ISA) concluded on

August 18, 2017 at Kingston, Jamaica.

India is the first country to have received the status of a pioneer investor in 1987 and was allocated an exclusive

area in Central Indian Ocean Basin by United Nations (UN) for exploration and utilization of nodules.

India is one among the top 8-countries/ contractors and is implementing a long–term programme on exploration

and utilization of Polymetallic Nodules through Ministry of Earth Sciences.

The Digital Police Portal under CCTNS project

The Ministry of Home Affairs will undertake steps to integrate the various organs of the Criminal Justice System

such as the Police, Courts, Prisons, Prosecution, Forensic Laboratories, Finger Prints and Juvenile Homes with

the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS) database.

This Interoperable Criminal Justice System (ICJS) will be a useful resource for all stakeholders including the policy

makers.

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The CCTNS portal will provide investigator the complete record history of any criminal from anywhere across the

country.

The CCTNS portal will form the backbone of the Criminal Justice System and this database will be subsequently

linked with the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MORTH) database on vehicle registrations

NITI Aayog to launch “Mentor India” Campaign

NITI Aayog will launch the Mentor India Campaign, a strategic nation building initiative to engage leaders who can

guide and mentor students at more than 900 Atal Tinkering Labs, established across the country as a part of the

Atal Innovation Mission.

It is aimed at maximizing the impact of Atal Tinkering Labs, possibly the biggest disruption in formal education

globally.

The idea is to engage leaders who will nurture and guide students in the Atal Tinkering Labs.

These labs are non-prescriptive by nature, and mentors are expected to be enablers rather than instructors.

SAMPADA Scheme renamed as “Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana”

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the renaming of the new Central Sector Scheme –

SAMPADA (Scheme for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-Processing Clusters) as “Pradhan

Mantri KisanSampadaYojana (PMKSY)” for the period of 2016-20 coterminous with the 14th Finance Commission

cycle.

Earlier, CCEA in its meeting held in May, 2017 approved the new Central Sector Scheme – SAMPADA (Scheme

for Agro-Marine Processing and Development of Agro-Processing Clusters) with same allocation and period.

The objective of PMKSY is to supplement agriculture, modernize processing and decrease Agri-Waste.

PMKSY with an allocation of Rs. 6,000 crore is expected to leverage investment of Rs. 31,400 crore, handling of

334 lakh MT agro-produce valuing Rs. 1,04,125 crore, benefit 20 lakh farmers and generate 5,30,500 direct/

indirect employment in the country by the year 2019-20.

A Commission to examine the Sub-Categorization within OBCs

The Cabinet approved for setting up of a Commission under article 340 of the Constitution to examine the issue

of sub-categorization of the Other Backward Classes (OBCs). The Commission shall submit its report within 12

weeks from the date of appointment of the Chairperson of the Commission.

The proposed terms of references of the Commission are To examine the extent of inequitable distribution of benefits of reservation among the castes/ communities included

in the broad category of OBCs, with reference to the OBCs included in the Central list.

To work out the mechanism, criteria, norms and parameters, in a scientific approach, for sub-categorization

within such OBCs, and,

To take up the exercise of identifying the respective castes/communities/ sub-castes/ synonyms in the Central

List of OBCs and classifying them into their respective sub-categories.

The Supreme Court (IndraSawhney and others vs. Union of India) observed that there is no Constitutional or legal

bar to a State categorizing backward classes as backward or more backward and had further observed that if a

State chooses to do it (sub-categorization), it is not impermissible in law.

Nine States of the country viz., Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Puducherry, Karnataka, Haryana, Jharkhand, West

Bengal, Bihar, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu have already carried out sub-categorization of Other Backward

Classes.

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(Note: this commission is being appointed according to the same Article 340 under which the Mandal commission

was appointed).

Public Sector Banks to amalgamate through an Alternative Mechanism (AM)

The Union Cabinet has given in-principle approval for Public Sector Banks to amalgamate through an Alternative

Mechanism.

The decision would facilitate consolidation among the Nationalised Banks to create strong and competitive

banks.

In 1991, it was suggested that India should have fewer but stronger Public Sector Banks. However, it was only in

May 2016 that effective action to consolidate public sector banks began to be taken by announcing amalgamation

of six banks into the State bank of India. The merger was completed in record time, unlike earlier mergers of State

Banks of Indore and Saurashtra.

National Sports Museum to be established in New Delhi

The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports is going to establish National Sports Museum, first of its kind, at Jawaharlal

Nehru Stadium, New Delhi.

The Museum will showcase the India’s achievements in sports and also focus on the traditional sports within the

country.

The aim of the Museum is to popularise the sports as a way of life within the country. Accordingly, the proposed

Museum would go beyond the classical approach of a collection of memorabilia to become an interactive venue

of interest for all age groups.

In addition, it will display achievements of the Indian greats in sports and also act as an educational hub and offer

opportunity for the young to delve into some sporting activity.

NITI Aayog’s 3-Year Agenda

NITI Aayog has come out with a detailed plan for reforms in the economy, judiciary, regulatory structure and

social sectors, in the three-year document to be implemented from 2017-18 to 2019-20.

In May 2016, the Prime Minister’s Office directed NitiAayog to come up with a 15-year vision document for the

period up to 2031-32. This would be complemented with a seven-year strategy starting 2017-18 to convert the

vision document into implementable policy and action as part of the National Development Agenda and a three-

year draft action plan.

According to the ‘Three-Year Action Agenda’ India has good prospects of achieving over 8% growth within 2-3

years. Therefore, the chances of massive cut in the poverty rate in the upcoming decade are excellent. Also the

agenda has set stiff economic targets and meeting those would benefit the economy.

Link central government expenditure to future priorities, shifting additional allocations to high-priority sectors

which are more likely to promote development.

Expand expenditures by 2019-20 on education, health, agriculture, rural development, defence, railways,

roads and other categories of capital expenditure.

Facilitate urbanisation in the country and deal with key challenges like affordable housing, infrastructure

development, pubic transport and promotion of Swachh Bharat.

Eliminate corruption and black money, and increase tax base besides reforms in civil services and electoral

process.

Reform the judicial system by streamlining human resource availability and performance, increasing and

strengthening avenues for dispute resolution and extensive use of ICT to improve efficiency.

On the social sector, bring in changes in segments like education, skill development, health and issues facing

specific groups, such as scheduled castes, scheduled tribes and women.

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Strengthen and streamline regulatory structure governing sustainability of environment

DARPG Grievance Study Analysis of 20 Ministries Reforms in the Department of Pensions

General Provident Fund rules have been liberalized.

A committee has been constituted to make recommendation on the National Pension System which is

applicable to the young officers who joined after the year 2004.

Officers will be rewarded under the ‘Anubhav’ initiative.

Setting up of Pensioners Adalat to quickly resolve the issues of pensioners.

Some key reforms undertaken by the Ministries/Departments are

Ministry of Petroleum, delay in obtaining LPG connections has been reduced due to introduction of online LPG

registration on mylpg.in.

In Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, sub-optimal CGHS services due to unavailability of doctors and staff

has been addressed by introducing Aadhaar linked biometric in all CGHS units.

In Ministry of Urban Development, delay in construction plan approval due to manual process has been

reduced by introducing online process to obtain clearance mechanism and

In Ministry of Railways, delay in ticket refunds has been reduced by introducing automatic refunds for

confirmed/waitlisted e-tickets on cancellation of trains, among others.

NITI Aayog launches Ease of Doing Business Report: An Enterprise Survey of

Indian States

Economic Performance and Reforms: A higher level of economic activity and better performance on a range of

doing business indicators are strongly correlated.

Improvements over time: Newer and younger firms report a more favorable business environment in that they

take less time in obtaining approvals than older firms, suggesting an improvement in the business environment.

Informational gaps: States need to enhance awareness of the steps being undertaken by them to the improve

ease of doing business. The survey data show low awareness among enterprises about single window systems,

instituted by states.

Labor regulations are a bigger constraint for labor intensive firms: We find that labor intensive sectors, that

create proportionately more jobs per unit of capital investment, feel more constrained by labor related regulations.

For example, compared to other enterprises, the enterprises in labor intensive sectors:

Barriers to firm growth: The experience of firms with fewer employees is different from that of larger firms. In

some cases, large firms face more regulatory barriers than smaller firms.

‘Trade-distorting farm subsidies must go’

India and China jointly submitted a proposal to the World Trade Organization (WTO) calling for the exclusion of

the most trade-distorting form of farm subsidies by the developed countries. The proposal is a prerequisite

for consideration of other reforms in domestic support negotiations.

This is an important in the view of the ongoing negotiations for the upcoming 11th Ministerial Conference (MC)

of the WTO to be held in Buenos Aires in December 2017.

It counters the efforts by some countries to target the subsidies of the developing countries while letting the

developed countries retain their huge farm subsidies.

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What is the proposal? Proposal called for the develelimination— by developed countries — of the most trade-

distorting form of farm subsidies, as a prerequisite for consideration of other reforms in domestic support

negotiations.

Contention: Developed countries, including the US, the EU and Canada, have been consistently providing trade-

distorting subsidies to their farmers at levels much higher than the ceiling applicable to developing countries.

Aggregate Measurement of Support (AMS)or ‘Amber Box’ support: The most trade-distorting form of farm

subsidies Developed countries have more than 90% of global AMS entitlements amounting to nearly $160 billion.

Most of the developing countries, including India and China, do not have AMS entitlements.

China and India says:Elimination of AMS should be the starting point of reforms rather than seeking reduction of

subsidies by developing countries.

BUSINESS & CLIMATE SUMMIT 2017

BUSINESS & CLIMATE SUMMIT 2017 is being held in New Delhi. Federation of Indian Chambers of

Commerce and Industry (FICCI) is organizing the third edition of BCS.

The Business & Climate Summit is the leading annual forum for businesses, investors and policymakers on

climate action. It is where business and governments come together to agree on a roadmap for reaching net zero

emissions over the next half century.

It demonstrates how low carbon strategies are good for business and good for growth – and builds the partnerships

needed to scale up and accelerate the low carbon transition.

The underlying theme of BCS is that the businesses hold the key to meeting global carbon reduction targets;

and collaboration between business and government is critical to success.

BCS 2017 – Objectives is to Express business belief that accelerated reduction in GHG emissions to limit global

warming to +2°C maximum is compatible with the pursuit of human, social and economic development, and their

commitment to engage in this direction.

FarmerZone at the Smart Agriculture Conclave

The Department of Biotechnology (DBT), under the Ministry of Science and Technology, had recently convened

the Smart Agriculture Conclave on August 29th-31st ,2017 in New Delhi, in partnership with the UK’s Biotechnology

and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC) and Research Councils UK (RCUK) India. The objective of

this conclave was to set the stage for “FarmerZone”.

It is a collective open-source data platform for smart agriculture which will use biological research and

data to improve the lives of small and marginal farmers.

The FarmerZone platform will connect farmers and scientists, government officials, thought leaders in agriculture,

economists and representatives from global companies who work in the big-data and e-commerce space to bring

about technology-based localised agri-solutions.

July 2017 India-Israel Joint Statement during the visit of Prime Minister to Israel

Marking the 25th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Prime

Minister Narendra Modi of India visited Israel from 4-6 July 2017 at the invitation of Prime Minister Benjamin

Netanyahu of Israel.

Modi’s visit is precisely that it would be the first visit by a serving Indian Prime Minister to Israel.

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OCI card: Prime Minister Modi has assured faster facilitation of OCI cards for Jewish Citizens of Indian origin in

Israel. He also assured that the OCI card will be given even to those people of Indian origin who had served in the

Israeli government’s compulsory army service.

Air Connectivity: The launch of a new Air India flight connecting India and Israel was announced, the flight is

expected to connect Delhi/Mumbai with Tel Aviv.

Israeli flower named after PM Modi: As a special gesture, a new fast growing Israeli Crysanthumun flower was

named “MODI” after Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during the Indian Premier’s visit to the Danziger flower farm,

which is one of the leading floriculture companies of Israel having founded in 1953.

Strategic partnership: India and Israel have announced that they have elevated their ties to a strategic

partnership as India has identified Israel as a major development and technological partner. Both countries have

also agreed to combat growing radicalization and terrorism and expand co-operation in cyber security.

Indian Cultural Centre: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced the establishment of an Indian Cultural

Centre in Israel to enhance people-to-people contacts between the two countries. Israel’s has also voiced its strong

support to promote the practice of yoga by designating June 21 as International Yoga Day.

Israel India Innovation Initiative Fund (I4F): The $40 million Israel India Innovation Initiative Fund has been

launched as a five-year technology fund with an aim at growing the business relationship between both the

countries. The similar type of fund had boosted Israel’s ties with that of the US in the past 40 years.

India-Israel Development Cooperation – Three Year Work Program in Agriculture 2018-2020

Haifa in Israel that is very dear to India. This is the final resting place for forty-four of the Indian soldiers who

sacrificed their lives during World War 1 to liberate that city.

In the 13th century, the Indian Sufi Saint Baba Farid had come to Jerusalem, and meditated in a cave.

India is one of the world’s largest arms importers and has emerged as Israel’s biggest defence buyer.

The progress of two flagship schemes – National Agricultural Markets (E-

Nams) and Soil Health Card

Soil Health Card (SHC) Scheme is a flagship scheme of the Government to promote the use of fertilisers based

on analysis of Soil Health and enable farmers to get maximum yields at lower cost with minimum damage to the

ecosystem.

The central Government launched this scheme in February 2015 to provide SHC to more than 12 crore farmers

once every 2 years.

Comprehensive testing of soil samples on 12 parameters including the status of micro-nutrients is being

carried out for each and every soil sample under the scheme.

The first cycle (2015-17) of the scheme is expected to be completed by July 2017. The States have reported

100% collection of soil sample i.e. 253 lakh soil samples and testing of 244 lakh soil samples.

So far 9 crore soil health cards have been distributed to farmers.

Agricultural produce market committee (APMC) APMC Act 2017 provides the facility of creating private market yards and farmer-consumer markets. Now, if the

states actively enforce the act, it will be easier for the farmers to have a liberal market available as this Act is based

on the model of “ease of doing business” to encourage direct marketing.

An agricultural produce market committee (APMC) is a marketing board established by a state government in

India.

APMC operate on two principles first to Ensure that farmers are not exploited by intermediaries (or money

lenders) who compel farmers to sell their produce at the farm gate for an extremely low price and second all food

produce should first be brought to a market yard and then sold through auction.

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“JIGYASA” – Student-Scientist connect programme

Jigyasa, a student- scientist connect programme has been officially launched. Council of Scientific and Industrial

Research (CSIR) and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) will jointly implement this programme.

The focus is on connecting school students and scientists so as to extend student’s classroom learning with

that of a very well planned research laboratory based learning.

The Jigyasa programme was inspired by “Scientific Social Responsibility (SSR)” of scientific community and

institutions.

The Programme is expected to connect 1151 Kendriya Vidyalayas with 38 National Laboratories of CSIR targeting

100,000 students and nearly 1000 teachers annually.

The program will also enable the students and teachers to practically live the theoretical concepts taught in science

by visiting CSIR laboratories and by participating in mini-science projects.

Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR), India, a premier national R&D organisation, is among the

world’s largest publicly funded R&D organisation. CSIR’s pioneering sustained contribution to S&T human

resource development is acclaimed nationally.

It was established by the Government of India in 1942 is an autonomous body that has emerged as the largest

research and development organisation in India.

It runs thirty-seven laboratories and thirty-nine field stations or extension centres throughout the nation,

It is mainly funded by the Ministry of Science and Technology, but it operates as an autonomous body through

the Societies Registration Act, 1860.

India declares itself free from Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza (H5N1 and

H5N8)

India had reported outbreaks of Highly Pathogenic Avian influenza at various epicenters at different places during

October, 2016 to February, 2017.

All the outbreaks of Avian Influenza (HPAI) mentioned above were notified to World Organisation for Animal

Health (OIE) and the control and containment operations were carried out as per the Action Plan on

Preparedness.

Surveillance was carried out throughout the country and around the areas of the outbreaks since completion of

the operation (including culling, disinfection and clean-up). The Result of Surveillance in the states showed no

evidence of presence of Avian Influenza Virus.

Asian Avian Influenza (H5N1): Avian Influenza Refers to disease caused by infection with avian (bird) influenza

(flu) Type-A viruses. Occur naturally among wild aquatic birds Can infect domestic poultry and other bird and

animal species. Do not normally infect humans- sporadic human infections with avian flu viruses have occurred

often with terrible consequences. Image of Avian Influenz.

Currently, HPAI Asian H5N1 virus does not transmit efficiently from person to person. The 1976 swine

flu outbreak, also known as the swine flu fiasco, or the swine flu debacle, was a strain of H1N1

influenzavirus that appeared in 1976.

H5N8: It is a subtype of the Influenza A virus (sometimes called bird flu virus). Although H5N8 is considered one

of the less pathogenic subtypes for humans, it is beginning to become more pathogenic.

First Maize Based Mega Food Park in Kapurthala, Punjab

Union Minister of Food Processing Industry laid the foundation stone for First Maize based Mega Food Park in

Kapurthala, Punjab on 7th July 2017.

Establishment of this Mega Food Park will result in the development of this Dark Zone which includes Job

opportunities, Environmental Conservation.

There is an urgent need to turn to Maize and our government would relentlessly work to make Maize as the third

viable staple crop of Punjab after Wheat and Rice and growing of maize with enhanced quality of seeds.

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Scheme for IPR Awareness – Creative India; Innovative India

Taking forward the National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy 2016, a ‘Scheme for IPR Awareness –

Creative India; Innovative India’ has been launched by Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM) under

the aegis of the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion.

The Scheme aims at raising IPR awareness amongst students, youth, authors, artists, budding inventors and

professionals to inspire them to create, innovate and protect their creations and inventions across India including

Tier 1, Tier 2, Tier 3 cities as well as rural areas in the next 3 years.

The Scheme will conduct over 4000 IPR awareness workshops/seminars in academic institutions (schools and

colleges) and the industry, including MSMEs and Startups, as also IP training and sensitization programmes for

enforcement agencies and the judiciary.

Online education portal

President of India recently launched the SWAYAM, the portal that takes high quality education to the doorstep

of everyone and the SWAYAM Prabha – the 32 DTH channels operationalised for telecasting high quality

educational content free of charge using the GSAT-15 satellite transponders.

SWAYAM, India has become one of the few countries in the World which has its own online interactive learning

platform that provides, not only video lectures, reading material but also assignments/quizzes that could end up in

securing credits after completing the assessment system.

More than 400 Courses are available on SWAYAM covering all the engineering and non-engineering subjects at

undergraduate and post-graduate levels.

The UGC has already issued Regulation that allows transfer of credits earned through the courses done through

SWAYAM into the academic record of the students.

The platform has been constructed by Microsoft with totally indigenous efforts.

Swayam Prabha: The SWAYAM PRABHA is conceived as a group of 32 DTH channels devoted to telecasting of

high-quality educational programmes on 24X7 basis using the GSAT-15 satellite.

Higher Education: Curriculum-based course contents at post-graduate and under-graduate level covering diverse

etc.

Golden Peacock Award for the Year 2017 for Eco-Innovation

Indian Railways Organization for Alternate Fuel (IROAF) has been awarded the coveted National level “Golden

Peacock Award for the Year 2017 for Eco-Innovation” for substitution of fossil fuels (Diesel) by environment

friendly CNG in DEMU passenger train services.

Use of CNG in Train Sets for passenger transportation has been done for the first time in the world. The CNG

based dual fuel 1400 HP engine used in DEMU trains developed by IROAF has successfully substituted diesel

fuel with CNG upto 20%.

This innovation will reduce emissions considerably by bringing down NOx by 16%, CO2 by 6% and

Particulate Matter by 18% besides achieving economy in fuel cost by 8%.So far, 19 Engines of DEMUs have

been successfully converted into CNG based dual fuel engines with this technology.

Golden Peacock Awards, instituted by the Institute Of Directors (IOD),India in 1991, are now regarded as a

benchmark of Corporate Excellence worldwide.

International Rice Research Institute (IRRI), South Asia Regional Center

(ISARC)

The Centre of Excellence in Rice Value Addition (CERVA) will be set up in Varanasi. This will include a modern

and sophisticated laboratory with capacity to determine quality and status of heavy metals in grain and straw. The

Centre will also undertake capacity building exercises for stakeholders across the rice value chain.

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Benefits from ISARC: The Centre will help in utilizing the rich biodiversity of India to develop special rice varieties.

This will help India to achieve higher per hectare yields and improved nutritional contents. India’s food and

nutritional security issues will also be addressed. The Centre will support in adopting value chain based production

system in the country. This will reduce wastage, add value and generate higher income for the farmers. The

farmers in Eastern India will benefit in particular, besides those in South Asian and African countries.

Management of ISARC: ISARC will operate under the governance of the IRRI Board of Trusteeswho will appoint

an appropriate IRRI staff member as Director. A Coordination Committee will be headed by Director General, IRRI

as Chair and Secretary, Government of India, Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers

Welfare(DACFW) as Co-Chair.

International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) is an international agricultural research and training organization

with headquarters in Los Baños, Philippines.

National Livestock Mission (NLM)

There is a need to augment resources for the sector and synergise activities through appropriate convergence.

Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries is implementing National Livestock Mission for

sustainable development of Livestock Sector, especially for poultry, goats, sheep, pig, pack animals, etc.

NLM provides assistance to improve availability of quality feed and fodder, risk mitigation and extension, skill

development and training for livestock sector including cattle and buffaloes.

The livestock rearers and farmers, especially women, are unorganised, as these activities are primarily backyard

in nature. However, rearing small ruminants, backyard poultry, pigs and other minor livestock offers tremendous

opportunities for improving both nutritional and livelihood security of livestock rearers with specific scientific

interventions.

The National livestock Mission is organised into the following four sub-Missions

Sub-Mission on Livestock Development

Sub-Mission on Pig Development in North-eastern Region

Sub-Mission on Fodder and Feed Development

Sub-Mission on Skill Development, Technology Transfer and Extension

European Union & India establish an Investment Facilitation Mechanism

European Union (EU) and India announced the establishment of an Investment Facilitation Mechanism (IFM) for

EU Investments in India.

The mechanism will allow for a close coordination between the European Union and the Government of India with

an aim to promote and facilitate EU investment in India.

Ease of doing business is a fundamental priority of our Government’s Make in India Campaign and the

establishment of IFM for facilitating EU investments in India is another step to achieve this goal.

The IFM has been established with the key objectives of paving the way for identifying and solving problems faced

by EU companies and investors with regard to their operations in India. The IFM will cover new investors as well

as those already established in India.

The IFM is also going to serve as a platform for discussing general suggestions from the point of view of EU

companies and investors with regard to ease of doing business in India, which would boost and encourage the EU

investors to avail the investment opportunities available in India.

Invest India:-Invest India, the official Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of the Government of India,

will also be part of the Mechanism. It will create a single-window entry point for EU companies that need assistance

for their investments at the central or state level.

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E-Patenting

The Government has launched the system of issuing e-patent certificates after grant of patent, by issuing a

public notice on 3-7-2017

The patent certificate will be generated through an automated system after the patent is granted by the Controller

and shall be transmitted to the applicant concerned or his authorised patent agent on record to the email address

recorded with the office.

The patent certificate shall also be made available along with status of the application concerned on the official

website (www.ipindia.gov.in), so that the same may be downloaded and printed, as desired by applicants.

It eliminates the delays in dispatch of patent certificates to the applicants concerned who can download and print

certificates from the website, thus ushering in greater transparency. It also enables them to take further action in

a timely fashion.

Rise in Average Temperatures

The latest Inter-governmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report (2014) highlights that mean surface

temperature of the globe has risen by 0.850C + 0.180C. However, all India mean temperature has risen around

0.640C over the last 110 years.

Following steps have been undertaken in the area of Climate Change: Launched a High-priority Programme to address the Science issues of Global and Regional Climate Change

(GRCC) with a well-equipped state-of-the-art Center for Climate Change Research (CCCR) at Indian Institute

of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune for interdisciplinary research and training in the area of science of climate

change.

The National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC) released in 2008 by Government of India. Outlines eight

missions in specific areas of Solar Energy, Enhanced Energy Efficiency, Sustainable Habitat, Water, Sustaining

the Himalayan Ecosystem, Green India, Sustainable Agriculture and Strategic knowledge for Climate Change.

Rise in Global Sea Levels: According to the Fifth Assessment Report (AR5) of Inter-governmental Panel on Climate

Change (IPCC) that global mean sea level had risen by 0.19m over the period 1901-2010 with a rate of global averaged

sea level rise of 1.7mm/year between 1901 and 2010 within which an accelerated rate of 3.2mm/year was noticed

between 1993 and 2010.

The possibility of sea level rise in the next ten years is about 3.2 cm in the north Indian Ocean, if the sea level

acceleration remains similar to 3.2 mm per year.

As a part of an Integrated Coastal Zone Management Project, the MoEFCC has been implementing the four

components, namely: National Coastal Management Programme, ICZM-West Bengal, ICZM-Orissa, ICZM-Gujarat.

Setting UP of a High Altitude Cloud Observatory near Munnar, Kerala A high altitude cloud physics

observatory has been established at Munnar (Kerala), in Western Ghats, the region which is gateway for the

monsoon of India.

High altitude cloud physics observatory at Munnar is used to observe cloud and rain processes over that region

with state of the art observations.

Such facility will enable understanding of rainfall distribution and will allow better characterization of rainfall

processes in the numerical models used for prediction of monsoon

Mobile App for Road Maintenance “Aarambh”

This Mobile Phone App aims at use of GIS based mapping for making road inventories, condition surveys, and

producing cost estimates and other relevant data for preparation and monitoring of annual road maintenance plans.

Its usage would greatly enhance the service delivery of the state level institutions in planning and implementing

performance based rural roads maintenance contracts.

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Steps to enhance the income of Farmers Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme by which the farmers can know the major and minor nutrients available in their

soils which will ensure judicious use of fertiliser application and reduce cost of inputs and improve soil fertility.

Neem Coated Urea is being promoted to regulate use of urea, enhance its availability to the crop and reduce cost

of fertilizer application. The entire quantity of domestically manufactured and imported urea is now neem coated.

Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) is being implemented with a view to promote organic farming in the

country. This will improve soil health and organic matter content and increase net income of the farmer so as to

realise premium prices.

Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) is being implemented to expand cultivated area with assured

irrigation, reduce wastage of water and improve water use efficiency.

National Agriculture Market scheme (e-NAM) was launched on 14.04.2016. The Scheme envisages initiation of

e-marketing platform at national level and will support creation of infrastructure to enable e-marketing in 585

regulated markets across the country by March 2018.

Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) is being implemented from Kharif 2016 season and is available to

the farmers at low rates of premium. This scheme would provide insurance cover for all stages of the crop cycle

including post-harvest risks in specified instances. The Government provides interest subvention of 3% on short-

term crop loans up to Rs.3.00 lakh. Presently, loan is available to farmers at an interest rate of 7% per annum,

which gets reduced to 4% on prompt repayment.

The Admiralty (Jurisdiction and Settlement of Maritime Claims) Bill, 2017

Passed Unanimously by Rajya Sabha

The Bill seeks to consolidate the laws relating to admiralty jurisdiction, legal proceedings in connection with

vessels, their arrest, detention, sale and other related matters Earlier only the High Courts of Bombay, Calcutta

and Madras could take up maritime cases.

The Bill extends the power to the High Courts of Karnataka, Kerala, Hyderabad, Orissa and Gujarat, besides

any other High Courts as notified by the Centre.

As per the new Bill, High Courts of all the coastal states shall exercise admiralty jurisdiction over maritime claims

which include several aspects not limited to goods imported and chattel as earlier, but also other claims such as

payment of wages of seamen, loss of life, salvages, mortgage, loss or damage, services and repairs,

insurance, ownership and lien, threat of damage to environment etc.

The Bill accords highest priority to payment of wages of the seafarers. The Bill also provides for protection against

wrongful and unjustified arrest and has provision for transfer of cases from one High Court to other High Court.

First Two NOPVs Shachi and Shruti Launched by RDEL at Pipavav, Gujarat

Reliance Defence and Engineering Limited (RDEL) launched the first two Naval Offshore Patrol Vessels (NOPVs)

at their shipyard in Pipavav, Gujarat.

The two NOPVs, Shachi and Shruti were launched are part of a five ship project being constructed for the Indian

Navy.

Role of NOPVs: To undertake surveillance of the country’s vast Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) besides

operational tasks such as anti-piracy patrols, fleet support operations, maritime security of offshore assets, coastal

security operations, and protection of shipping lanes.

The NOPVs would increase the ocean surveillance and patrolling capabilities of the Indian Navy.

Jal Manthan-IV

The Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation organized a two-day national seminar

titled “Jal Manthan – IV” on July 28 and 29, 2017 at New Delhi.

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The Jal Manthan was focused on consultations and discussions on Pradhan Mantri Krishi Seenchai Yojana (PMKSY)

and its implementation and the Review of progress made by States under Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme

(AIBP) and Command Area Development (CAD) etc.

Swadhar Greh Scheme

Targets the women victims of difficult circumstances who are in need of institutional support for rehabilitation so

that they could lead their life with dignity

The Scheme envisages providing shelter, food, clothing and health as well as economic and social security for the

women victims of difficult circumstances

The scheme focuses on establishing one Swadhar Greh in each district.

NPCI gets RBI nod to operate Bharat Bill Payment System

The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has received final nod from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)

to function as the Bharat Bill Payment Central Unit (BBPCU) and operate the Bharat Bill Payment System

(BBPS).

The final clearance from RBI comes almost a year after NPCI launched the BBPS pilot project to make payment

of utility bills easier.

Bharat Bill Payment System (BBPS) BBPS is an integrated bill payment system offering interoperable and

accessible bill payment service to customers through a network of agents, enabling multiple payment modes and

providing instant confirmation of payment.

The BBPS initiative aims to provide a major push to digital payments as it is a big step forward in formalizing the

bill payment system in the country.

Sagar Vani: An Integrated Information Dissemination System launched

The Union Ministry of Earth Science has launched Sagar Vani, an integrated information dissemination system on

the occasion of its foundation Day. Sagar Vani is an integrated information dissemination system that will serve

the coastal community, especially the fishermen community with the advisories and alerts towards their

livelihood as well as their safety at Sea.

Sagar Vani has been developed by ESSO-Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS)

through the Industry M/s. Gaian Solutions Pvt. Ltd.

It is a software platform where various dissemination modes will be integrated on a single central server.

It can disseminate services in local languages using advanced artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning

capabilities.

Boosting population: Jiyo Parsi phase II campaign launched

The ‘Jiyo Parsi’ (Live Parsi) campaign was launched three years ago in 2014, to address the issue of dwindling

population of India’s Parsi community For the first time in the world, there has been an ad campaign to save a

community.

Jiyo Parsi scheme: Declining population of parsi community in India is a matter of concern. Therefore, “Jiyo Parsi

Publicity Phase-1” was initiated in 2013 for containing the declining trend of population of the Parsi community and

reverse it to bring their population above the threshold level.

The main objective of the “Jiyo Parsi” scheme is to reverse the declining trend of Parsi population by adopting a

scientific protocol and structured interventions, stabilize their population and increase the population of Parsis in

India.

Ministry of Minority Affairs’ scheme has two components: Medical Assistance and Advocacy/Counselling.

June 2017

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18th Annual India Russia Summit, at St. Petersburg

India, Russia unveil joint statement to boost economic and trade relations

The Prime Minister described the St. Petersburg Declaration, as a benchmark of stability in a turbulent,

interdependent and interconnected world.

India’s participation as a guest country in SPIEF and it would further deepen economic cooperation between

the two nations.

Energy cooperation in both countries noted cooperation in the nuclear, hydrocarbon, and renewable energy

sectors. (the agreement of Units 5 and 6 of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant).

Emphasized the role of the private sector in enhancing trade and commerical ties in achieving the target of 30

billion US dollars worth of investment by 2025.

The two units of the plant, with capacity to produce 1000 MW of electricity each, will significantly boost the

country’s nuclear power generation. Total power generation from six reactors of KNPP will be 6,000 MW. KKNPP

was the outcome of an inter-governmental agreement between the erstwhile Soviet Union and India in

1988.

First Developmental Flight of India’s GSLV Mk III Successfully launches GSAT-

19 Satellite

The first developmental flight (GSLV MkIII-D1) of India’s heavy lift launch vehicle GSLV Mk-III was successfully

conducted on June 05, 2017 evening from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota with the launch of

GSAT-19 satellite.

GSLV-Mk III is capable launching 4-ton class of satellites to Geosynchronous Transfer orbit (GTO). It is a three-

stage vehicle with two solid motor strap-ons (S200), a liquid propellant core stage (L110) and a cryogenic stage

(C25).

This was the first orbital mission of GSLV MkIII which was mainly intended to evaluate the vehicle

performance including that of its fully indigenous cryogenic upper stage during the flight.

Weighing 3136 kg at lift-off, GSAT-19 is the heaviest satellite launched from the Indian soil.

The upper stage of GSLV MkIII vehicle is a new cryogenic stage (C25) indigenously configured, designed and

realised by ISRO.

The cryogenic stage used liquid Hydrogen and liquid Oxygen as propellants with a total loading of 28

tons.The stage is powered by a 20 ton thrust cryogenic engine (CE20) operating on ‘gas generator cycle’.

The performance of the engine and stage during the mission was as predicted. About sixteen minutes after lift-off,

GSAT-19 satellite was successfully placed in orbit.

India’s first Rural LED Street Lighting Project in Andhra Pradesh

Government of India, through the Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) under the Ministry of Power, would

be retrofitting 10 lakh conventional street lights with LED lights in Gram Panchayats of 7 districts in Andhra

Pradesh.

This is the first project for rural LED street lighting in the country under the Government of India’s Street

Lighting National Project (SLNP).

This replacement drive in rural areas will help the gram panchayats to cumulatively save approximately 147 million

units of electricity annually and lead to reduction of 12 crore tonnes of CO2.

The entire upfront capital cost of this project is being funded by French Development Agency.

SLNP scheme- Prime Minister launched 100 cities National Programme on 5th January to convert conventional

street and domestic lights with energy efficient LED lights. Under Street Light National Programme (SLNP),

replacement of 3.5 crore conventional street light will result in saving of 9,000 million units annually. Energy

Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) has been designated as the implementing agency.

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Inclusive India Initiative

“Inclusive India Initiative: Towards an Inclusive India” for intellectual and developmental disabilities

The ‘Inclusive India Initiative’ of National Trust is specifically catering to persons with intellectual and

developmental disabilities; with an objective to include these people in the mainstream and in all important aspects

of social life, namely education, employment and community ‘Inclusive India’ in about changing the attitudes.

The Inclusive India initiative is an attempt to facilitate the realisation of equal opportunities, protection of rights and

full participation of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities into the fabric of society. The three

core focus areas of Inclusive India Initiative are Inclusive Education, Inclusive Employment and Inclusive

Community Life.

The initiative will engage at least 2000 corporate sector organisations; public and private, for creating awareness

towards inclusive employment for persons with intellectual disabilities, during the current financial year.

Vatsalya – Maatri Amrit Kosh

The ‘Vatsalya – Maatri Amrit Kosh’, a National Human Milk Bank and Lactation Counselling Centre was recently

inaugurated at the Lady Hardinge Medical College (LHMC).

“Vatsalya – Maatri Amrit Kosh” is established in collaboration with the Norwegian government, Oslo University and

Norway India Partnership Initiative (NIPI).

It is a national human milk bank and lactation counseling centre that will collect, pasteurize, test and safely store

milk that has been donated by lactating mothers and make it available for infants in need.

‘DigiYatra’- A New Digital Experience for Air Travellers

‘DigiYatra’ initiative aims to bring together entire industry to develop a digital ecosystem that will deliver

Indian customers a seamless, consistent and paperless service experience at every touch point of their journey.

DigiYatra initiative envisages providing airline travellers in India, a pioneering ‘digitally unified flying experience’

across all stages of their journey.

Augmenting Cancer treatment facilities in the North East

Taking over Dr. B. Borooah Cancer Institute, Guwahati by Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and bringing

it under the administrative control of Tata Memorial Centre, an Aided institution of DAE; The decision comes

in the wake of the increasing instances of cancer, limited cancer treatment facilities and the need for a hospital

support to carry out further research in North Eastern Region.

Borooah Cancer Institute was established in 1974 in Guwahati with the aim and objective of investigation,

diagnosis and treatment of cancer in the North Eastern region of India by a voluntary organization.

22ND APEDA Annual Award

In order to felicitate the exporters for their distinguished service in exports of Indian Agro and Processed Food, 82

awards were presented for the years 2014-15 and 2015-16. The awards were in the following categories: Diamond-

2 Gold – 33 Silver – 29 Bronze – 18.

Allanasons Ltd. got the “Diamond Trophy” for both years for their outstanding export performance and overall

contribution in food sector.

Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority popularly known as APEDA is an

apex body of the Ministry of Commerce, Government of India, to promote the export of agricultural

commodities and processed food products.

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India to be Co-Partner Country in ANUGA 2017

ANUGA – (General Food and Non- Essential Provisions Exhibition) is the world’s biggest and most important

trade fair for Food and beverage trade. It is Organized in every 2 years. ANUGA 2017 is the 34th edition.

ANUGA offers an extensive supporting program with Lectures, Special exhibition and attractive industry events

ANUGA is the leading export platform with 7,189 exhibitors from 109 countries with over 85% of Exhibitors from

abroad.

Congenital Adrenal Hyperplasia (CAH) (a inherited disorder)

Parents of a CAH (inherited disorder) child, have started a support group called ‘CAH Support

India’(www.cahindia.org) involving a community of parents, grandparents and caregivers of CAH children.

The International Coalition for Endocrine Patient Support Organizations worldwide has listed this support group as

the first such group for endocrine disorders in India.

CAH is an inherited disorder that affects the adrenal glands where the glands cannot produce cortisol and

aldosterone, and instead produce an unwanted excess amount of androgens.

Interest Subvention to banks on Short-Term crop loan to farmers

The Union Cabinet approved the Interest Subvention Scheme (ISS) for farmers for the year 2017-18.

The objective of the scheme is to make available at ground level, agricultural credit for Short Term crop

loans at an affordable rate to give a boost to agricultural productivity and production in the country.

This will help farmers getting short term crop loan up to Rs. 3 lakh payable within one year at only 4% per

annum.

The interest subvention will be given to Public Sector Banks (PSBs), Private Sector Banks, Cooperative

Banks and Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) on use of own funds and to NABARD for refinance to RRBs and

Cooperative Banks.

The Interest Subvention Scheme will continue for one year and it will be implemented by NABARD and RBI.

The Central Government will provide interest subvention of 5 per cent per annum to all prompt payee

farmers for short term crop loan upto one year for loan uptoRs. 3 lakhs borrowed by them during the year

2017-18

Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill 2017

The Union Cabinet approved the proposal to introduce a Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill,

2017.

The Bill would provide for a comprehensive resolution framework for specified financial sector entities to

deal with bankruptcy situation in banks, insurance companies and financial sector entities.

It seeks to give comfort to the consumers of financial service providers in financial distress. It also aims

to inculcate discipline among financial service providers in the event of financial crises by limiting the use of

public money to bail out distressed entities.

It would help in maintaining financial stability in the economy by ensuring adequate preventive measures, while

at the same time providing the necessary instruments for dealing with an event of crisis.

The Bill aims to strengthen and streamline the current framework of deposit insurance for the benefit of a

large number of retail depositors. Further, this Bill seeks to decrease the time and costs involved in resolving

distressed financial entities

National Mission on Cultural Mapping of India

The implementation of the ‘‘National Mission on Cultural Mapping of India’ was recently launched at

Goverdhan Block, Mathura District, Uttar Pradesh. This Mission is part of the ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’

umbrella.

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Ministry of Culture launched it in the year of commemoration of the birth centenary of Pandit Deen Dayal

Upadhyay, from Mathura.

The mission aims at converting the vast and widespread cultural canvas of India into an objective cultural

map, designing a mechanism to fulfil the aspirations of the whole artist community of the nation and

preserving the rich cultural heritage of this country in the form of a cultural repository of artists and art forms.

This Mission encompasses data mapping, demography building formalising the processes and bringing all the

cultural activities under one web based umbrella for better results.

BIO International Convention

The Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO) 2017 is being held in the San Diego Convention Centre, San

Diego. India is also taking part in the convention.

The BIO International Convention is the largest global event for the biotechnology industry and attracts

the biggest names in biotech, offers key networking and partnering opportunities, and provides insights and

inspiration on the major trends affecting the industry.

The first BIO International Convention was held in 1993 and attracted approximately 1,400 attendees.

The BIO International Convention is hosted by the Biotechnology Innovation Organization (BIO).

India ratifies United Nations TIR Convention

India has become the 71st country to ratify the United Nations TIR (Transports InternationauxRoutiers)

Convention, a move that will help boost trade through smoother movement of goods across territories.

The ratification is a part of India’s multi-modal transport strategy that aims to integrate the economy with

global and regional production networks through better connectivity.

The Customs Convention on International Transport of Goods under cover of TIR Carnets, 1975 (TIR

Convention), is an international transit system under the auspices of the United Nations Economic

Commission for Europe (UNECE) to facilitate the seamless movement of goods within and amongst the

Parties to the Convention. At present there are 70 parties to the Convention, including the European Union.

India’s biggest municipal bonds programme launched in Maharashtra

To finance its 24×7 water supply project, the Pune Municipal Corporation has launched India’s biggest

municipal bonds programme. The project looks to raise Rs 2,264 crore in five years.

Municipal bond sare debt instruments through which a corporation or municipalityraises money from

individuals or institutions.

The civic body floating the bonds returns the principal amount on a maturity date with a specific amount of interest.

There are usually two kinds of bonds – general bonds, where money is raised without mentioning the cause in

particular, and revenue bonds, where funds are raised for income-generating projects and revenue from the

projects is used to repay the buyers.

EEPC India opens Technology Centre in Bengaluru

EEPC India, the apex organisation of the country’s engineering exporters has launched ‘EEPC India

Technology Centre’ in Bengaluru.

The centre would provide a single window platform for all technology solutions for engineering industry.

The centre will facilitate product innovation, designing process improvement, new product development etc. It will

operate like a library of information in the fields of technology, international standards and industry 4.0 etc. The

centre would have arrangements with leading R&D Labs and institutions for providing experts with relevant

engineering fields to connect with Video conferencing with various engineering clusters in various parts of the

country.

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‘MERIT’ - A web portal

A web portal- MERIT (Merit Order Despatch of Electricity for Rejuvenation of Income and Transparency)

was recently launched by the Ministry of Power. The portal has been developed by Ministry of Power in

association with POSOCO and Central Electricity Authority.

The portal displays extensive array of information regarding the merit order of Electricity procured by

State(s) such as daily state-wise marginal variable costs of all generators, daily source-wise power purchases of

respective states/UTs with source-wise fixed and variable costs, energy volumes and purchase prices.

The web-portal also give information regarding reasons for deviation from merit order such as must run conditions,

transmission constraints etc.

City Liveability Index

The Ministry of Urban Development has launched the ‘City Liveability Index’for measuring the quality of

life in 116 major cities including smart cities, capital cities and cities with a population of above 1 million each.

In a first of its kind Index to be introduced in the country, cities will be assessed on a comprehensive set of 79

parameters to capture the extent and quality of infrastructure including availability of roads, education and

health care, mobility, employment opportunities, emergency response, grievance redressal, pollution, availability

of open and green spaces, cultural and entertainment opportunities etc.

The Index is a Common Minimum Reference Framework to enable the cities know where they stand in terms of

quality of life and the interventions required to improve the same.

11th Statistics Day celebrated

11th statistics day was celebrated on 29th JUNE ‘Administrative Statistics’ is this year’s theme for the

Statistics Day.

In recognitionof the notable contributions made by Late Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in the fields

of statistics, statistical system and economic planning, Government of India in 2007, designated 29thJune the

birth anniversary of Prof. Mahalanobis. as the “Statistics Day”.

The objective of celebration of this Day is to create public awareness about the importance of statistics in

socio-economic planning and policy formulation and to acknowledge the contribution of Prof. Mahalanobis.

29th June, 2017 marks the beginning of the 125th year of birth of Prof. P.C. Mahalanobis.

Launch of Web Application for Legal Services to Prisoners

National Legal Services Authority (NALSA) has launched a Web Application for free Legal Services to

Prisoners and the Legal Services Management System developed through the NIC.

The application shall make the legal services system more transparent; this application will be universally useful

for all the relevant authorities to monitor the grant of legal aid to the prisoners in order to ensure that

absolutely no prisoner goes unrepresented right from the first day of his production in the court.

Through Web Application the State Legal Services Authorities and District Legal Services Authorities shall

feed the data for each individual prison inmate in the jails within their jurisdiction, with regard to their being

represented through a counsel in the court.

The software will be able to generate reports showing total number of inmates, number of inmates unrepresented,

number of inmates represented by legal services lawyers and number of inmates represented by private lawyers.

All the above information can be generated State wise, District wise and also in respect of each jail. The reports

can also be generated by the period of incarceration, which will in turn generate information with regard to

prisoners eligible for bail under Section 436-A Cr.P.C.

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New training programme ‘COMMIT’ for State Government officials

A new training programme Comprehensive Online Modified Modules on Induction Training (COMMIT) for

State Government officials has been launched.

The objective of this training programme is to improve the public service delivery mechanism and provide citizen

centric administration through capacity building of officials who interact with the citizens on day-to-day basis.

The COMMIT programme, developed by DoPT in collaboration with United Nations Development Programme

(UNDP), will supplement the existing 12-Day ITP launched in 2014-15 for newly recruited state Government

officials to develop in them Generic & Domain specific competencies.

Innovate in India (i3)

In a bid to create a globally competitive biopharmaceutical industry that addresses the country’s major

concerns around barriers to affordable healthcare, innovate in India (i3) program has been launched.

The minitry of Science & Technology in collaboration with World Bank. It will be implemented by Biotechnology

Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a Public Sector Enterprise, set up by DBT.

It is a first- of-its-kind mission that brings together industry and academia to promote entrepreneurship and

indigenous manufacturing in the biopharmaceutical sector.

This Mission aspires to create an enabling ecosystem to promote entrepreneurship and indigenous

manufacturing in the sector. The programme will specifically focus on the development of new vaccines, bio-

therapeutics, diagnostics and medical devices to better address the rising burden of diseases in the country.

It will also bring isolated Centres of excellence together, enhance regional capabilities and strengthen the current

bio-clusters network in terms of capacities as well as quantity and quality of output.

Practice MCQ for UPSC 2018

1. Recently government approved of establishing of National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA), it will make

good impact on-

1. Foreign/Domestic investments

2. Economic growth

3. Globalization of business

4. Development of audit profession

Select your answer using the codes given below: -

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 3 and 4 only

(c) 2 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

2. Recently Exercise Paschim Leher (XPL-18) Concluded, which of the following statement is/are correct?

1. The Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Navy Conducted it.

2. It was large scale operational exercise in the Arabian Sea.

Select your answer using the codes given below:-

(a) 1 only

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(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 Nor 2

3. Recently the Trafficking of Persons (Prevention, Protection and Rehabilitation) Bill, 2018 was in news, consider the

following statement regarding it-

1. The Bill comprehensively addresses the transnational nature of the crime.

2. The Bill creates dedicated institutional mechanisms at District, State and Central Level.

3. National Investigation Agency (NIA) will perform the tasks of Anti-Trafficking Bureau at the national level.

4. A Rehabilitation Fund created for the first time.

Which of the statement given above are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1, 3 and 4 only

(c) 2 and 4 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

4. Consider the following statement with reference to Food Park.

1. These create modern infrastructure facilities for food processing.

2. The first Mega Food Park in the state of Maharashtra was recently opened in Malegaon.

3. Recently 10th Mega Food Park operationalized in the country.

Which of the statement given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 1, 2 and 3

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1 and 3 only

5. Which of the following statement is correct?

(a) National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) celebrated its 33rd Inception Day, on March 11, 2018

(b) Recently NCRB released “Citizen Services” Mobile APP.

(c) Crime & Criminal Tracking Network & System is a project is implemented by NCRB.

(d) All the above.

6. Consider the following statements about the Exercise Samvedna.

1. A Multilateral Air Force exercise

2. It is the first composite Human assistance and disaster relief Air exercise in the South Asian region.

3. It was conducted by Southern Air Command of India.

4. It was the first time when Indian and Pakistan Airforce Predicated in a Exercise.


(a) 1 only

(b) 1, 2 and 3 only

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(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

7. Consider the following statements.

1. Assertion (A): India and France joined hands in ensuring freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region.

2. Reason (R): India and France share common concerns on freedom of navigation in the Indo-Pacific region.

In the context of the above, which of these is correct?

(a) A is correct, and R is an appropriate explanation of A.

(b) A is correct, but R is not an appropriate explanation of A.

(c) A is correct, but R is incorrect.

(d) Both A and R are incorrect


1. Assertion (A): IREDA & European Investment Bank sign Euro 150 million Loan Agreement.

2. Reason (R): European Union Promised India to Provide financial support to achieve its Green Energy Targets.




(c) A is correct, but R is incorrect.


9. Consider the following statements with reference to Urea Subsidy Scheme.

1. It is Scheme of Department of Fertilizers with effect from 1stApril, 2017.

2. It is wholly financed by the Government of India through Budgetary Support.

3. It government will give run this scheme up to 2020.

4. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) is used for disbursement of fertilizer subsidy.


(a) 1 only

(b) 1, 2 and 3 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

10. As developed by Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences, Which of the following drugs is correctly

matched?

1. AYUSH 82: An Anti-Diabetic Ayurvedic Formulation.

2. AYUSH SG: An Anti-Rheumatoid Arthritis preparation.

Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

(a) 1 only

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(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 Nor 2

11. Consider the following statements regarding the Regional 3R Forum in Asia and the Pacific.

1. India will host the 8th 3R Regional Forum in Asia and the Pacific in its cleanest city Indore,

2. Its upcoming edition theme is ‘Mission Zero Waste’.

3. It was launched in 2009 in Tokyo, Japan.


(a) 1 only

(b) 1, 2 and 3

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1 and 3

12. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for restructuring which of the following fund/corporation to strengthen

governance, implementation and monitoring framework.

1. National Skill Development Fund (NSDF)

2. National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)

Select your answer using the codes given below:-

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 Nor 2

13. The proposal of Department of School Education and Literacy to formulate a Integrated Scheme on School Education

was accepted by union cabinet by subsuming from 1st April, 2018 to 31st March, 2020.

1. Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA)

2. Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA)

3. Teacher Education (TE)


(a) 2 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1 and 3 only

(d) 1, 2 and 3

14. Which of the following statement about the International Competition Network (ICN) is INCORRECT?

(a) India hosted the 17th Annual Conference of ICN2018.

(b) ICN is an international body comprising 132 members from 120 competition jurisdictions exclusively

devoted to international competition enforcement.

(c) The ICN’s main goal is to improve and advocate for sound competition policy and its enforcement across

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the global antitrust community.

(d) The ICN is a rule-making organisation and its work products are legally binding instruments.

15. Consider the following statements

Assertion (A): A massive rail coach factory will be set up in Latur, Maharashtra by Indian Railways.

Reason (R): The Marathwada region of Maharashtra suffers from heavy migration to other parts of the country.


a) A is correct, and R is an appropriate explanation of A.

b) A is correct, but R is not an appropriate explanation of A.

c) A is incorrect, but R is correct.

d) Both A and R are incorrect.

16. Which of the following major initiative(s) recently announced by government in health sector, as part of

Ayushman Bharat programme?

1. Health and Wellness Centres 2. National Health Protection Scheme 3. ATAL Jan Ausadi Kendras


(a) 2 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 1, 2 and 3

(d) 1 and 3 only

17. Consider the following statements about the South Asia Region Public Procurement Conference.

1. Recently its second edition organized in India.

2. Its recent theme was “Public Procurement and Service Delivery”.

3. These conferences held under the auspices of the South Asia Association of Regional Cooperation.


a) 1, 2 and 3

b) 1 and 3 only

c) 2 only

d) 2 and 3 only

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18. Consider the following statements with reference to scheme Development of Solar Cities.

1. It under the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy.

2. It aims to reduce a minimum of 10% of the projected demand of conventional energy of the city.

3. It aims to reduce conventional energy of the city through renewable energy installations and energy efficiency

measures.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 1 and 2 only

(c) 1 only

(d) 2 and 3 only

19. Consider the following statements regarding the Mahamastakabhisheka.

1. It is held once in 12 years.

2. It is one of the biggest festivals for the Jain community.

3. It honors Lord Bahubali.


a) 1 and 2 only

b) 2 only

c) 1 and 3 only

d) 1, 2 and 3 only

20. Recently the Union Cabinet approved the proposal for closure of which of the following nidhi/kosh/fund?

1. Rashtriya Arogya Nidhi

2. Jansankhya Sthirata Kosh

3. National Planning Fund

4. Mahila Vikas Nidhi

5. Kreshi Kallyan Kosh


(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 3 and 5 only

(c) 1 and 2 only

(d) 3, 4 and 5 only

21. The Government recently approved a proposal for ratification of the Minamata Convention, consider the

followings statement about it.

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1. The Minamata Convention is a global treaty to protect human health and the environment from adverse effects

of mercury.

2. After joining the Convention, it will now be easier for India to get technological or financial assistance to address

issues related to mercury.

Which of the statement given above is/are NOT correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

22. "Healthy States, Progressive India" is a comprehensive Health Index report; which of the following statement(s)

is/are correct about it?

1. It is released by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare with technical assistance from the World Bank.

2. Among the Larger States, Kerala, Punjab, and Tamil Nadu ranked on top in terms of overall performance.

3. Among Smaller States, Mizoram ranked first followed by Manipur on overall performance.

4. Among Union Territories, New Delhi showed both the best overall performance.


(a) 1 only

(b) 2 and 3 only

(c) 1, 2, 3 and 4

(d) 2, 3 and 4 only

23. Consider the following statements with reference to INS Garuda

1. Recently an ‘Integrated Autodmatic Aviation Meteorological System’ was inaugurated at INS Garua.

2. INS Garuda is the fourth air station to have been installed with integrated system.


(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

24. Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct with reference to the National Deworming Day?

1. The fourteenth edition of this day was observed on 10 February.

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2. The government launched National Deworming Initiative to combat parasitic worm infections of children aged

between 1 to 19 years.


(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

25. Consider the following statement as per the ‘India State of Forest Report 2017’.

1. India has shown an increasing trend in the forest and tree cover in comparison to the global trend in the last

decade.

2. It is the 15th Report in the series publication of Forest survey of India (FSI).

3. India is ranked 10th in the world under forest and tree cover.


(a) 1, 2 and 3

(b) 1 only

(c) 1 and 2 only

(d) 2 and 3 only

26. The 3rd International exhibition and conference on Pharmaceutical & Medical Device sector from 15th-17th

February, 2018; which of the statement(s) is/are INCORRECT about it?

1. It was held in Bengaluru.

2. Its theme was ‘Driving NextGen Pharmaceuticals.


a) 1 only

b) 2 only

c) Both 1 and 2

d) Neither 1 nor 2

27. The United Nations’ (UN) International Mother Language Day annually celebrates language diversity and variety

worldwide on February 21, The theme of 2018 is-

(a) Linguistic diversity and multilingualism for sustainable development.

(b) Ensure that all youth and a substantial proportion to achieve literacy and numeracy

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(c) Mother Language connecting blood to soul.

(d) Vernacular for sustainable development:2030

28. Operation Greens aims to promote-

1. farmer producers organizations

2. agri-logistics

3. processing facilities

4. professional management


(a) 1, 2 and 3 only

(b) 2 only

(c) 1, 3 and 4

(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

29. Recently Government of India has approved the setting up of a tribunal to settle Mahanadi water dispute,

consider the following statement with reference to it.

1. It is to settle a row between Odisha and Chhattisgarh on sharing the waters of the river Mahanadi.

2. It will be formed according to the provisions of the Inter-State River Water Disputes (ISRWD), 1956.

3. It will have a chairperson and four other members.

4. The President of India would nominate the chairperson and members.


(a) 1 and 2 only

(b) 1 and 4 only

(c) 1, 2, 3 and 4

(d) 1, 2 and 3 only

30. Silkyara Bend-Barkot Tunnel as part of Chardham Mahamarg Pariyojana will be constructed in-

(a) Himachal Pradesh

(b) Uttarkhand

(c) Himachal Pradesh & Uttarkhand

(d) Uttarkhand & Nepal

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31. Consider the following statement regarding the National Technology Centre for Ports, Waterways and Coasts.

1. It will be set up in Vishakhapatnam.

2. It is being set up under the Shipping Ministry’s flagship programme Sagarmala.


(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

ANSWER: -B

32. Consider the following statement regarding the Swajal pilot project

1. It is launched in Rajasthan.

2. It is launched by NITI Aayoug.

3. The central and state government will share the cost in 90:10 ratios.


(a) 1 and 3 only

(b) 1 only

(c) 1 and 2 only

(d) 2 and 3 only

33.National Science Day is celebrated on 28th of February every year in order to commemorate the invention of the

Raman Effect by the Indian physicist, Sir Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman on the same day in the year 1928, The

theme for this day in 2018 was-

(a) Science for Nation Building

(b) Scientific Issues for Development of the Nation

(c) Science and Technology for a Sustainable Future

(d) Fostering Scientific Temper

34.A first-of-its-kind Aviation Multi Skill Development Centre, a CSR initiative of Airports Authority of India (AAI) was

inaugurated in-

(a) Bangalore

(b) New Delhi

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(c) Gandhinagar

(d) Chandigarh.

35.On 1st January 2018, the central health Secretary launched a online database Portal, the main aim of this portal

is-

(a) To make available all the details of universal vaccination program.

(b) To make available all the details of various diseases.

(c) To make available all the details of various medical professionals.

(d) To make available all the details of yoga & AYUSH.

36. Recently Government has launched a portal for connecting breeders and farmers of indigenous breeds, name of

this portal is

(a) e-Pashu Mitra

(b) e-CBFIB

(c) e-Pashu breeds

(d) e-Pashu Haat

37. Government is focused on improving quality of education and research in Higher Education

Institutions, consider the following statements given bellow regarding it

i. Joint Research Programmes are being taken with countries.

ii. Global Initiative of Academic Networks (GIAN) is aimed at tapping the talent pool of scientists and

entrepreneurs.

iii. Margdarshan is an indigenous On-line Education platform has been launched on 9th July 2017

iv. Uchhatar Avishkar Yojana identify areas of immediate relevance to society requiring innovation,


(a) i and ii only

(b) i, iii and iv only

(c) ii and iv only

(d) i, ii and iii only

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38. Consider the following statement regarding the online portal NARI.

i. It provides women citizens with easy access to information on government schemes and initiatives for women.

ii. It is a platform for NGOs and Civil Societies to interact with the Ministry of Women & Child Development.

Which of the statement given above is/are INCORRECT?

(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Both i and ii

(d) Neither i nor ii

39. Which of the following statement(s) is/are primary aim of the National Health Policy, 2017?

i. investments in health

ii. organization of healthcare service

iii. prevention of diseases and promotion of good health through cross sectoral actions

iv. encouraging medical pluralism

Select the answer using the codes given below

(a) ii only

(b) iii only

(c) ii, iii and iv only

(d) i, ii, iii and iv only

40. As per the latest Report of Registrar General of India- Sample Registration System, Consider

the following statements regarding the Maternal Mortality Ratio (MMR) of India

i. MMR is 167 per 100,000 live births.

ii. Increase is shown in MMR in resent time.

Which of the statement given above is/are INCORRECT?

(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Both i and ii

(d) Neither i nor ii Curre

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1. Assertion (A): The Reproductive & Child Health Programme provides supplementary nutrition is provided to

Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers

2. Reason (R): Malnutrition in pregnant women is one of the underlying causes of low birth weight (LBW) babies.




(c) A is correct, but R is not an appropriate explanation of A.A is correct, but R is incorrect.


Answer: – a

42. Recently Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs given its approval for implementation of the Jal Marg Vikas

Project for capacity augmentation of navigation on which of the following National Waterway.

(a) National Waterway-4

(b) National Waterway-6

(c) National Waterway-2

(d) National Waterway-1

43. Under the National Monsoon Mission initiative, which of the following centre/institutes has/have embarked upon

to build a state-of-the-art coupled ocean atmospheric model?

i) Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune,

ii) Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad

iii) National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), NOIDA

Which of the statement given above is/are CORRECT?

(a) i and ii only

(b) ii only

(c) i and iii only

(d) I, ii and iii

44. Recently government launched the country’s first digital Online Oncology Tutorial Series,

designed by which of the following organization in collaboration with the Health Ministry?

(a) Tata Memorial Center

(b) American Society of Clinical Oncology

(c) International Cancer Organization

(d) Indian Society of Oncology

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45. Who among the following created history by becoming the first Indian to win an international medal in skiing.

(a) Aanchal Thakur

(b) Shiva Keshavan

(c) Shemsher Shing

(d) Jyoti Bala

46. The Union Cabinet has given its approval to a number of amendments in the FDI Policy; consider the following

statements with reference to it.

i) 100% FDI under automatic route for Single Brand Retail Trading

ii) 100% FDI under automatic route in Construction Development

iii) Foreign airlines allowed to invest up to 49% under approval route in Air India

iv) FIIs/FPIs allowed to invest in Power Exchanges through primary market

v) Definition of ‘medical devices’ amended in the FDI Policy


(a) i, ii, and iv only

(b) iii, iv and v only

(c) i, iii and v only

(d) i, ii, iii, iv and v

47. Who among the following NOT the Padma Vibhushan Awardees in 2018 ?

(a) Ilayaraja

(b) Ghulam Mustafa Khan

(c) Parameswaran

(d) Ramachandran Nagaswamy

48. Consider the following statement regarding the Government Process Re-engineering (GPR)

i) It will help to achieve a position in the top 50 countries in “Doing Business” ranking by the World Bank.

ii) It initiatives for making the Incorporation Process Speedy, Smooth, Simple for a Business.

iii) It will reduce the number of procedures involved for starting a Business.


(a) i and ii only

(b) ii only

(c) i and iii only

(d) i, ii and iii

49. Recently ASEAN-India Summit remained in news, Consider the following statement about it.

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i) The ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit was held in New Delhi to praise the 25th commemoration.

ii) The topic of Commemorative Summit was “Shared Values, Common Destiny”.

iii) It issued joint a explanation titled Jaipur Declaration.


(a) i and ii only

(b) ii only

(c) i and iii only

(d) i, ii and iii

50. Which of the following statements regarding the International Dam Safety Conference is/are correct?

i) India hosted the International Dam Safety Conference – 2018 at Cochin.

ii) Central Water Commission is organized this Conference in association with Kerala Government.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Both i and ii


51. Recently government launched the National CSR Data Portal & Corporate Data Portal, which of the following

statement is/are INCORRECT about it?

i) It captures information on CSR activities carried out by all companies.

ii) It contains all filed information with respect to different expenditure.

iii) It drives accountability and transparency for corporate India.

Select the answer using the codes given below

(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) i and iii only

(d) i, ii and iii

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52. Consider the following statement with reference the International Dharma-Dhamma Conference.

i) Its 4th edition was held at Sarnath, Varanasi.

ii) Its latest edition theme was Dharma-Dhamma Tradition in Modern Era.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Both i and ii


53. Recently Indian Railway launched a SFOORTI Application, this app is associated with which facility of Indian

Railway?

(a) Freight Operation

(b) Food Catering

(c) Advertisement with Railway

(d) Feedback of All Railway Services

54. Which of the statement given below is/are correct about the National Youth Day?

i) India annually observes it on January 12, since 1985.

ii) This day imbibed the students and youth with the philosophy and ideals of the Swami Vivekananda.

Select the answer using the codes given below:

(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Both i and ii


55. Recently PSLV successfully launched 31 satellites in a single flight, which of the statement given below is

INCORRECT about it.

(a) It was Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle’s 100th flight.

(b) It was successfully launched along with 710 kg Cartosat-2 Series Remote Sensing Satellite.

(c) It was launched from Satish Dhawan Space Centre SHAR, Sriharikota.

(d) This flight is designated as PSLV-C40.

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56. Consider the following statement regarding the Under-Five Child Mortality (U5MR).

i) Recently India registered a significant decline in U5MR.

ii) U5MR of India is 43 in 2016.

iii) The SDG target for U5MR is 25 by 2030.


(a) i and iii only

(b) i only

(c) ii and iii only

(d) i, ii and iii

57. Consider the statements about the National Nutrition Mission (NNM)

i) Recently union cabinet approved setting up of it with a one year budget from 2017-18.

ii) It is an apex body which will monitor, supervise, fix targets and guide the nutrition related interventions across

the Ministries.

iii) All the States and districts will be covered under it, till end of 2018.

select correct answer from the codes given below:

(a) i and ii

(b) ii only

(c) I and iii

(d) ii and iii

58. Central Government “Mission 25 by 2022” is related to

(a) Forest growth

(b) Malnutrition

(c) building AIIMS/ IIM/IIT

(d) Defence Weapons

59. Recently Government launched the the Mission SAMPARK, for the Community Based Testing to end which

epidemic disease by 2030?

(a) Malaria

(b) Aids

(c) Tuberculosis

(d) Plague

60. Consider the following statements about the Resource Efficiency for India.

i) Resource efficiency is a strategy to achieve the maximum possible benefit with least possible resource input.

ii) NITI Aayog, CII and EU Delegation to India release the First Ever Resource Efficiency (RE) Strategy for India.

iii) It includes the core-action plan for the period 2017-2018 and medium-term action plan for 2017 – 2020.


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(a) i and ii

(b) ii and iii

(c) i and iii

(d) i, ii and iii

61. Consider the following statement about the International Solar Alliance (ISA).

i) It is a treaty–based international intergovernmental organization since Paris declaration.

ii) It is headquartered in India.


a) i only

b) ii only

c) Both i and ii

d) none

62. Which Asian country will Host World Environment Day Celebration in 2018?

(a) India

(b) China

(c) Japan

(d) Indonesia

63. Recently which exercise was conducted by Indian Navy for undertaking Search and Rescue (SAR) and providing

Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster relief (HADR) material support, over Southeast Arabian Sea and L& M

islands in the aftermath of Very Severe Cyclonic Storm ‘OCKHI’.

(a) OP Sahayam

(b) OP OCKHI

(c) OP Tofaan Rakha

(d) OP Arabian Sea

64. Which of the following statement is INCORRECT about the ‘Aroyga 2017’?

(a) It was the first International exhibition cum conference on AYUSH, organized in India.

(b) It was on Ayurveda, Yoga, Naturopathy, Unani, Siddhha, Sowa Rigpa, Homoeopathy and wellness.

(c) It was organized by Ministry of AYUSH.

(d) It was held at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi from 4th to 7th December, 2017.

65. Consider the following statement about the Border Protection Grid (BPG)

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i) It is a multi-pronged and foolproof mechanism to secure border.

ii) It will be supervised by a State Level Standing Committee.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Both i and ii

(d) none

66. Recently The Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance Bill, 2017 (FRDI Bill), was introduced in Parliament, which

of the following statement is/are correct about it .

i) It seeks to give comfort to the consumers of financial service providers in financial distress.

ii) It limits the use of public money to bail out distressed entities.

iii) It strengthens and streamline the current framework of deposit insurance for the benefit of retail depositors.


(a) i and ii

(b) ii only

(c) i and iii

(d) i, ii and iii

67. Recently government set up which of the following centre to monitor, detect and prevent cyber attacks on

government networks

(a) GOV-TECH RAKHA centre

(b) NIC-CERT centre

(c) TCL-CERT centre

(d) NIC-TCL centre

68. Recently the Government launched, which of the following app under Labour Room Quality Improvement Initiative

for a Safe Delivery Mobile Application for health workers who manage normal and complicated deliveries in the

peripheral areas.

(a) LaQshya app

(b) Kilkari App

(c) Jiban CARE

(d) PraSav CARE

69. Recently the ASEAN India Connectivity Summit (AICS) was in conducted, which of the following statement is/are

correct about it.

i) It was conducted on the theme ‘Powering Digital and Physical Linkages for Asia in the 21st Century’.

ii) Its focus areas were shipping and digital connectivity.


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(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Both i and ii

(d) none

70. Injupani Bridge and Deopani/Eze Bridge recently remained in news, these bridges are in which state?

(a) Tamil Nadu

(b) Jammu and Kashmir

(c) Gujarat

(d) Arunachal Pradesh

71. SANKALP Project is related to-

(a) Digital connectivity

(b) Skill development

(c) Clean India Program

(d) Road connectivity

72. Consider the following statement about the Sakhi scheme, which one is INCORRECET about it.

(a) This scheme is being implemented since 1st April 2015.

(b) This scheme is run by Ministry of Women and Child Development.

(c) It provides integrated support and assistance to women affected by violence under one roof.

(d) Under it One Stop Centre’s (OSC) would be set up across the country till march 2019.

73. Consider the following about fruits in India.

i) India is the largest producer of fruits.

ii) National Research Centre for Citrus is in Bhopal.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Both i and ii

(d) none

74. As per 2017 Global Hunger Index (GHI) Report, published by the International Food Policy Research Institute

(IFPRI), what is India’s ranks out of 119 countries.

(a) 67

(b) 37

(c) 100

(d) 85

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75. What is India’s ranks out of 127 countries in the Global Innovation Index (GII) 2017?

(a) 66

(b) 39

(c) 31

(d) 60

76. Consider the following about The National Health Policy, 2017.

i) It aims at achieving universal health coverage.

ii) It aims in delivering quality health care services to all at affordable cost.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Both i and ii

(d) none

77. Which following plant definition will amended after passing of The Indian Forest (Amendment) Bill, 2017?

(a) Bamboo

(b) Banyan

(c) Banana

(d) Babuool

78. The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is planning to launch the first solar mission, named

(a) Aditya-C1

(b) Aditya-L1

(c) Surya-C1

(d) Surya-L1

79. Project ‘Mausam’ is the initiative of which ministry?

(a) Ministry of Culture

(b) Ministry of Defence

(c) Ministry of Agriculture

(d) Ministry of External Affairs

80. Consider the following statement about the Exercise Naseem-Al-Bahr 2017

i) It is a bilateral exercise of Indian Army and Oman army.

ii) It started in 1993.

iii) Naseem Al Bahr means Sea Breeze

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(a) i and ii

(b) ii and iii

(c) i and iii

(d) i, ii and iii

81. Recently The Prevention of Torture Bill was in news, which of the following statement is/are correct about it.

i) It is to ratify the UN Convention against Torture of 1975.

ii) It defines torture as “grievous hurt”, or danger to life, limb and health.

iii) Complaints against torture have to be made within six months.


(a) i only

(b) ii and iii

(c) ii only

(d) i, ii and iii

82. The Govt. of India has provided insurance cover to Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) and Anganwadi Helpers (AWHs),

which of the following statement is/are correct about it.

i) It will have done with the association of Life Insurance Corporation of India.

ii) They will get insurance covered under Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY).

iii) They will get insurance covered under Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY)


(a) ii only

(b) ii and iii

(c) i, ii and iii

(d) i and ii

83. Recently State Governments with the Central Department of Rural Development has completed the ranking of

Gram Panchayats, which of the following statement is/are correct about it.

i) It has completed the ranking of 50,000 Gram Panchayats.

ii) It is done on parameters of physical infrastructure.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Both i and ii

(d) none

84. Consider the following statement about the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)

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i) It provides social security to elderly persons aged over 60.

ii) It provides an assured return of 8% per annum for 10 years.

iii) New Insurance Company is partner in it.


(a) ii only

(b) ii and iii

(c) i, ii and iii

(d) i and ii

85. To enhance standards of cleanliness, upkeep, and basic amenities at beaches, a pilot project for beach cleanup

and development was recently launched, It strives for the which Certification for such identified beaches?

(a) Blue Flag

(b) Red Flag

(c) Green Flag

(d) Orange Flag

86. Government recently launched DARPAN scheme for the modernization of-

(a) Muslim Madarsas

(b) Post Offices

(c) District Courts

(d) Village Primary schools

87. NavIC is a-

(a) Indian Navigational System

(b) solar system

(c) Indian Research centre for Gravitational Wave

(d) Indian Space Observatory

88. What was the theme of the World Toilet Day 2017?

(a) Wastewater

(b) 2030: aim to reach everyone with sanitation,

(c) 2030: halve the proportion of untreated wastewater

(d) increase recycling and safe reuse.

89. The Island Development Agency (IDA) was set up in June 2017 to review meeting for the development of islands,

the meetings of the agency is chaired by the

(a) Union Home Minister

(b) Prime Minister

(c) President

(d) Cabinet Secretary

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90. India’s first Technology and Innovation Support Center (TISC) will come up in Punjab and second in Chennai ,

under the World Intellectual Property Organization’s TISC program, which among the follling is NOT among the

objective of the TISC

(a) To stimulate a dynamic, vibrant and balanced Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs) system in India

(b) To foster creativity and innovation

(c) Promoting entrepreneurship

(d) Promoting Indian Start up globally.

91. Recently constituted five member Economic Advisory Council to the Prime Minister (EAC-PM), in its second

meeting advised macroeconomic importance and related aspects opportunities in India , how among the

following is its chairman

(a) Ratan Watal

(b) Bibek Debroy

(c) Surjit Bhalla

(d) Arvind Pangariya

92. Recently union cabinet has approved appointment of Second National Judicial Pay Commission (SNJPC) for

Subordinate Judiciary in the country, the Commission is to be headed by

(a) Shri (Justice Retd.) JP.Venkatrama Reddi

(b) Shri (Justice Retd.) R. Basant

(c) Justice kudeep Ansuman

(d) Shri A. K. Mathur

93. Railway Minister gives directions for “comprehensive training programme” for all employees of Indian Railways

to boost productivity & efficiency, being launched under the name

(a) Project Skill Indian Railway

(b) Project Saksham

(c) Project Saksham Suraksha

(d) Project Surakha

94. Ministry of Tribal Affairs along with Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation Ltd (TRIFED),

organized which celebration recently, of the spirit of Tribal Culture, Cuisine and Commerce.

(a) AADI MAHOTSAV

(b) TRIBES INDIA

(c) JANGAL MOHATSAV

(d) JUGNOO FESTIVAL

95. Which of the following is the INCORRECT statement in Recognizing the India’s efforts towards a low emission-

economy and focusing on energy efficiency programmes?

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(a) The Global Environment Facility (GEF) has now partnered with Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL).

(b) EESL recently launched $454 million project ‘Creating and Sustaining Markets for Energy Efficiency’.

(c) Global Environment Facility (GEF) recently provided a grant of around $454 million to EESL.

(d) EESL proposes Energy Efficiency Revolving Fund (EERF) for sustainable funding mechanism of energy

efficiency projects.

96. In terms of farm produce India’s rank in the world is

(a) First

(b) Second

(c) Third

(d) Fourth

97. India successfully tested the Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon System or the SAAW system, which of the following

statement is INCORRECT about it?

(a) The Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon is an indigenously designed smart weapon.

(b) It is developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).

(c) It reached the targets at greater than 20 km range.

(d) There are two variants of the guided bombs-Garuthmaa and the Garudaa.

98. Recently the 23rd Conference of Parties (COP-23) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate

Change (UNFCCC) being held at the

(a) Bonn, Germany

(b) Paris, France

(c) New York, USA

(d) Nerobi, Kenya

99. The first ever North-East Development Summit (NEDS) 2017 which was aimed to boost trade and investment in

underdeveloped region of North East, hosted by which state

(a) Tripura

(b) Nagaland

(c) Manipur

(d) Arunachal Pradesh

100. The first edition of the International Symposium to Promote Innovation & Research in Energy Efficiency (INSPIRE 2017) was recently held in (a) New Delhi

(b) Jaipur

(c) Hyderabad

(d) Bangalore

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101. Recently Union Cabinet approved establishing the National Anti-Profiteering Authority (NAA) under the Goods

and Service Tax (GST), which of the statement is/are correct about it?

i) It will be headed by union finance minister.

ii) It will help in controlling inflation.

iii) It aims to ensure fair pricing.


(a) i, ii

(b) i only

(c) ii, iii

(d) i, ii, iii

102. Recently Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) held in india, which of the of the statement is/are correct

about it?

i) It was its 8th edition.

ii) The theme of “Women First, Prosperity for All”.

iii) It co-hosted by the Japan and India in Ahmadabad.


(a) i, ii

(b) i only

(c) ii, iii

(d) i, ii, iii

103. Recently the Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved creation of National

Testing Agency (NTA), which of the following statements are correct about it?

i) It will be a Society registered under the Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860.

ii) It will be a autonomous and self-sustained premier testing organization.

iii) It will conduct the entrance examinations for higher educational institutions.

iv) It will be chaired by an eminent educationist appointed by President.


(a) i, ii, iv

(b) ii, iii, iv

(c) i, ii, iii

(d) i, ii, iii, iv

104.Which of the statement is/are correct about the ASTRO SAT?

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i) It is India’s first dedicated multi wavelength space observatory.

ii) Recently, it successfully measured the X-ray polarisation of Crab pulsar.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Neither i nor ii

(d) Both i and ii

105.Which of the following statement is/are correct about the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)?

i) It is headed by the Prime Minister of India.

ii) It promotes Application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in Disaster Management.

iii) This authority was made under Disaster Management Act, 2002.

iv) It envisions the development of an ethos of Prevention, Mitigation and Preparedness.


(a) i, ii, iv

(b) i only

(c) ii, iii, iv

(d) i, ii, iii

106.Government of India recently launched a SHe-Box portal, a online complaint Management System to lodge

complaints of sexual harassment at workplace, which of the statement is/are correct about it?

i) It is for women working in public organizations.

ii) It is for women working private organizations.

iii) It is made under the SH Act 2013.


(a) i, ii,

(b) i only

(c) ii, iii,

(d) i, ii, iii

107. Recently INTERNATIONAL ENERGY FORUM (IEF) remained in news, which of the following statement is/are

correct about it?

i) It is the largest inter-governmental organisation in the field of oil and gas.

ii) India is the current Chair of the IEF.

iii) India hosted 7TH ASIAN MINISTERIAL ENERGY ROUNDTABLE in Nov 2017.


(a) i, ii

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(b) i only

(c) ii, iii

(d) i, ii, iii

108. Which of the following statements are correct about the various schemes and programs initiated by the

Government to achieve the target of Doubling of Farmers’ Income by 2022.

i) Budget Fund with the aim of “Per Drop More Crop”.

ii) Promotion of value addition through food processing.

iii) Opening jan dhan accounts.

iv) Creation of a National digital Farm Market(e-NAM).

Select the correct answer using the codes given below

(a) i, ii, iv

(b) i ,iv

(c) ii, iii, iv

(d) i, ii, iii

109. Recently the Ministry of Shipping has extended the Coastal Berth Scheme of the flagship Sagarmala Programme,

which of the statement is/are correct about?

i) It extended the period of the scheme for five years, upto 31st March, 2022.

ii) This flagship Scheme also aims to provide financial support for inland waterway.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) Neither i nor ii

(d) Both i and ii

110. The Union Cabinet recently approved India’s Membership for European Bank for Reconstruction &

Development (EBRD), which of the following are possible benefits from its membership?

i) It would enhance India’s international profile and promote its economic interests.

ii) India’s investment opportunities would get a boost.

iii) It would help India leverage the technical assistance and sectoral knowledge of the bank for the benefit of

development of private sector.

iv) This would open up new vistas for Indian professionals.


(a) i, ii, iii, iv

(b) i ,iv

(c) ii, iii, iv

(d) i, ii, iii

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111. Recently Prime Minister of India launched ‘Intensified Mission Indradhanush’ , which of the following statement

is/are correct about it?

i) Its Aim is “Let no child suffer from any vaccine-preventable disease”.

ii) the government aims to reach every child below the age of five years.

iii) the government aims to reach every pregnant women.


(a) ii,iii

(b) i only

(c) i,iii

(d) i,ii,iii

112. which of the following is/are correct about BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise- 2017’ (BIMSTEC DMEx-

2017) ?

i) It is its third edition.

ii) It was conducted by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) in Delhi and the National Capital Region

(NCR).

iii) Majority of the BIMSTEC countries are situated in the South Asian Region (SAR), prone to natural disasters such

as floods, cyclones, earthquakes, avalanches and drought


(a) i,ii

(b) i only

(c) ii,iii

(d) i,ii,iii

113. Recenlty The Ministry of Tourism has launched the ParyatanParv ” celebrations, which of the following is/are

the component of this celebration across the nation?

i) Dekho Apna Desh

ii) Tourism For All

iii) Tourism and Governance


(a) i,ii

(b) i only

(c) ii,iii

(d) i,ii,iii

114. Recently The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has approved the signing of

"Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC)" between India and Japan on the "Technical Intern Training Program

(TITP)", which of the following statement is/are incorrect about it?

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i) The Technical Intern Training Program (TITP) is an ambitious program to send Indian technical interns to

Japan for on the job training for a period of three to five years.

ii) It is expected that the MoC will pave the way for bilateral cooperation between the two countries in the

area of skill development.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) i and ii only

(d) neither i nor ii

115. Recently union cabinet sighned the Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) between India and Japan on

establishing a liquid, flexible and global LNG Market, which of the statement is/are correct about it?

i) India and Japan are major consumers of energy in the world.

ii) In the LNG sector, Japan is the world's largest importer and India is the 2th largest importer.

iii) The Japan-India Energy Partnership Initiative signed in January 2016.


(a) i,iii

(b) i only

(c) ii, iii

(d) i,ii,iii

116. Recently The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, has

approved two new World Bank supported schemes of Rs. 6,655 crore – Skills Acquisition and Knowledge

Awareness for Livelihood Promotion (SANKALP) and Skill Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement

(STRIVE).

i) SANKALP aimed at providing market relevant training to youths across the country.

ii) STRIV aimed at improving the quality and the market relevance of vocational training provided in ITIs.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) i and ii only


117. A new Bureau of Indian standards (BIS) Act 2016 which was notified on 22nd March, 2016, has been brought into

force with effect from 12th October, 2017, which of the following statements are correct?

i) The Act establishes the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) as the National Standards Body of India.

ii) It made hallmarking of the precious metal articles mandatory.

iii) it will help in ease of doing business in the country,

iv) it makes compulsory certification regime any goods or article of any scheduled industry.

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(a) i,ii,iii

(b) iii,iv

(c) ii, iv

(d) i,ii,iii,iv

118. INS Kiltan (P30) recently commissioned into the Indian Navy, which of the following statements are correct about

it?

i) It is third Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) stealth corvettes built under Project 28 (Kamorta Class)

ii) It is named after the coral island belonging to the Nicobar group of islands.

iii) INS Kiltan is one of the most potent warships to have been constructed in India

iv) iv.INS Kiltan is the first major warship with superstructure entirely of composite material.


(a) i,iii,iv

(b) iii,iv

(c) ii, iv

(d) i,ii,iii,iv

119. Recently the Prime Minister, inaugurated Phase 1 of the RO RO (Roll on, Roll off) ferry service, which of the

following statements are correct about it?

i) This ferry service is between Ghogha in Saurashtra, and Dahej in South Gujarat.

ii) This ferry service will reduce the travel time from five hours to over an half hour.


(a) i only

(b) ii only

(c) i and ii only


120. India has jumped 30 places to rank 100th in the ‘ease of doing business index’, which of the following statement

is correct about it?

i) The World Bank gives the ease of doing business ranking.

ii) The “distance to frontier metric,” one of the key indicators in the survey, India’s score went from 56.05 in

Doing Business 2017 to 60.76 in Doing Business 2018.

iii) India is the only large country this year to have achieved such a significant shift.

iv) iv)India helped by a slew of reforms in taxation, licensing, investor protection and bankruptcy resolution.


(a) i,iii,iv

(b) iii,iv

(c) ii, iv

(d) i,ii,iii,iv

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