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Current Affairs Today: Monthly PDF Compilation

[January, 2018]
Last Updated: February 8, 2018

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Current Affairs Today: Monthly PDF Compilation [January, 2018]
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Contents
......................... . .....................................................................................
Month Highlights: January – 2018 ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Date Wise: Current Affairs Updates ................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
January 1, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 12
Vidarbha wins 2017 Ranji Trophy tournament ....................................................................................................................................................... 12
2 new ginger species discovered in northeast ......................................................................................................................................................... 12
Nyctibatrachus mewasinghi: New night frog species discovered in Western Ghats ....................................................................................... 13
Arunachal Pradesh declared open defecation-free State ....................................................................................................................................... 13
NASA to launch Parker Solar Probe to explore sun’s outer atmosphere ......................................................................................................... 14
Saudi Arabia, UAE introduce VAT for first time .................................................................................................................................................... 15
GAIL commissions India’s second largest rooftop solar plant in UP .................................................................................................................. 15
India and Pakistan exchange list of nuclear sites for 27th consecutive year .................................................................................................... 16
January 2, 2018 ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Schistura Larketensis: New species of blind fish discovered inside Meghalaya cave ...................................................................................... 16
Government appoints Vijay Gokhale as new Foreign Secretary ......................................................................................................................... 17
Health Ministry launches Allied and Health care Professional Database ........................................................................................................... 17
Core sectors’ record 6.8% growth in November 2017 ........................................................................................................................................ 17
Karnataka receives approval for purchase of electric vehicles under FAME India scheme .......................................................................... 18
Fact Sheet: 2G Scam Verdict ...................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
Parliament passes Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code Amendment Bill, 2017 ................................................................................................... 19
Government launches NARI portal and e-Samvad portal ................................................................................................................................... 20
Parliament passes NABARD (Amendment) Bill, 2017 ......................................................................................................................................... 20
January 3, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
China develops underwater surveillance networks in Indian Ocean, South China Sea ................................................................................. 20
Defence Ministry gives final nod for Barak missiles, PGM bombs ..................................................................................................................... 21
Former RAW Chief Rajinder Khanna Appointed Deputy National Security Advisor ..................................................................................... 21
MHA exempts cruise tourists with e-visa from biometric enrolment till 2020 ............................................................................................... 21
Lok Sabha passes Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment) Bill, 2017 ............................................... 22
Government announces details of electoral bonds for political funding ........................................................................................................... 22
Cabinet approves establishment of new AIIMS at Bilaspur ................................................................................................................................. 23
January 4, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Cabinet approves MoU between India and UK in transport ............................................................................................................................... 24
Bharat Biotech’s Typbar-TCV: WHO approves Indian typhoid vaccine for global use ................................................................................ 24
Cabinet approves Indo-Myanmar agreement on land border crossing ............................................................................................................ 24
CCEA approves construction of bi-directional Zojila Tunnel in J&K ................................................................................................................. 25
CCEA approves implementation of Jal Marg Vikas Project on NW-1 ............................................................................................................... 26
Scientists discover four new balsam species in Arunachal Pradesh ................................................................................................................... 27
CCEA approves extension of norms for mandatory packaging in Jute Materials .......................................................................................... 27
January 5, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 28
NMCG approves five Namami Gange projects in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand ............................................................. 28
US puts Pakistan on Special Watch List for severe violations of religious freedom ....................................................................................... 28
Health Ministry and Tata Memorial Centre launch first digital Online Oncology Tutorial ......................................................................... 29
Defence Ministry clears Rs.2420 Crore worth contracts for Navy, Army ...................................................................................................... 29
Government launches 7.75% Savings (Taxable) Bonds 2018 ........................................................................................................................... 29
Lok Sabha passes Bill to hike salaries of judges ...................................................................................................................................................... 31
Railways, HRD and S&T Ministry ink MoU on Technology Mission for Indian Railways ........................................................................... 32
NASA to launch two missions — GOLD and ICON to explore the ionosphere ........................................................................................... 33
January 6, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
26th World Book Fair held in New Delhi with focus on environment ............................................................................................................. 33
Income Tax Department launches on-line chat service ....................................................................................................................................... 34
Atal Pension Yojana reaches subscriber base of 80 lakh ..................................................................................................................................... 34
Forex Reserves scale record high of $409.366 billion in December 2017 ..................................................................................................... 34
HRD Ministry releases All India Higher Education Survey .................................................................................................................................. 35
January 7-8, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 35
75th Annual Golden Globe Awards ......................................................................................................................................................................... 35
Legendary astronaut, moonwalker John Young passes away ............................................................................................................................. 36
Flamingo festival held at Pulicat lake in Andhra Pradesh ..................................................................................................................................... 36
CBDT relaxes norms for MAT on firms facing insolvency ................................................................................................................................. 37
Government to launch e-Sansad and e-Vidhan in Parliament and State .......................................................................................................... 37
AIIB plans to issue first US dollar bonds in June 2018 ......................................................................................................................................... 38
Vulnerable Odisha tribe Mankidia denied habitat in Similipal ............................................................................................................................. 38
Pratyush: India’s fastest supercomputer unveiled ................................................................................................................................................... 39
January 9, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 39
Haryana becomes first state to launch High-Risk Pregnancy portal ................................................................................................................. 39
SpaceX launches secretive Zuma mission ............................................................................................................................................................... 40
Government notifies the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2017 ......................................................................................................................... 40

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Saudi Arabia allows India’s plan to ferry Haj pilgrims via sea route .................................................................................................................. 41
Government completes 1st phase of BharatNet project ........................................................................................................................................ 41
Government to raise Territorial Army battalion of ex-Armymen to clean Ganga ......................................................................................... 41
Government to launch new scheme for free treatment of Hepatitis C ............................................................................................................ 42
January 9: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas ............................................................................................................................................................................ 42
Supreme Court stays High Court verdict against 85% pictorial warning on tobacco .................................................................................. 43
First PIO Parliamentary Conference held in New Delhi ....................................................................................................................................... 43
January 10, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Scientists for first time grow skeletal muscle tissue from stem cells ................................................................................................................. 43
National anthem not mandatory in cinema halls: SC ........................................................................................................................................... 44
3rd Meeting of Council of Trade Development and Promotion held in New Delhi .................................................................................... 44
Gujarat tops in Logistics Ease Across Different States index .............................................................................................................................. 45
CCEA approves continuation of Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme ..................................................................... 46
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Canada for cooperation in field of S&T .................................................................................... 46
Rocket expert K. Sivan appointed as new chairman of ISRO ............................................................................................................................. 46
January 11, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 47
Corps of Army Air Defence celebrates 25th Raising Day ................................................................................................................................... 47
Mumbai’s Matunga Railway Station enters Limca Records for All Woman Staff .......................................................................................... 47
Charlie-435: Indian Coast Guard commissions patrol vessel ............................................................................................................................. 47
Committee of Governors submits report to President ......................................................................................................................................... 48
UIDAI introduces 2-tier security to Aadhaar to address privacy concerns ..................................................................................................... 48
CABE sub-committee recommends free education for girls up to PG level ................................................................................................... 48
World Bank Report projects 7.3% growth for India in 2018 ............................................................................................................................. 49
India misses 2017 deadline for Kala Azar elimination .......................................................................................................................................... 49
Cabinet approves fixed term for chairperson and members of National Trust .............................................................................................. 50
Cabinet approves amendments to FDI Policy ......................................................................................................................................................... 50
January 12, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 51
January 12: National Youth Day .................................................................................................................................................................................. 51
4th International Dharma-Dhamma Conference held in Nalanda ..................................................................................................................... 52
National Youth Festival held in New Delhi .............................................................................................................................................................. 52
JioCoin: Reliance Jio planning to launch its own cryptocurrency ....................................................................................................................... 52
Indu Malhotra: First woman lawyer to be directly promoted as SC judge ..................................................................................................... 54
China to build Counter-Terrorism Base in Northern Afghanistan’s Badakshan province ........................................................................... 54
Ministry of Railways launches SFOORTI application ............................................................................................................................................ 54
January 13, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 55
Fourth ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture & Forestry held in Delhi ...................................................................................... 55
NITI Aayog to rank 115 aspirational districts by April 2018 ............................................................................................................................... 55
IIP growth hits 17-month high of 8.4% in November 2017 .............................................................................................................................. 56
North Koel Reservoir Project: Water Resources Ministry ink MoU with Bihar and Jharkhand .................................................................. 56
Environment Ministry refuses captive breeding of Chiru ..................................................................................................................................... 57
Nepal starts receiving internet connection from China ........................................................................................................................................ 58
China launches two BeiDou-3 navigation satellites into space ........................................................................................................................... 58
EC constitutes Umesh Sinha Committee for considering social media expansion ......................................................................................... 58
Indian Navy decommissions INS Nirbhik and INS Nirghat warships ............................................................................................................... 59
Ministry of Petroleum launches Saksham 2018 Campaign ................................................................................................................................. 59
January 14-15, 2018 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 59
Kerala Government launches Kerala Accelerator Program for early-stage startups ..................................................................................... 59
India’s first-ever FDI in fertiliser sector: Yara acquires Tata Chemicals urea plant ....................................................................................... 60
Rizhao: China commissions new missile frigate ..................................................................................................................................................... 60
Delhi is richest state, Jain wealthiest community: NFHS-4 wealth index ......................................................................................................... 60
Teen Murti Chowk renamed after Israeli city Haifa .............................................................................................................................................. 61
7th Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav 2018 held in Karnataka .................................................................................................................................. 62
India, UK ink MoUs to enable return of illegal Indian migrants and sharing of criminal records ............................................................. 62
NCDEX launches India’s first agri-options trading in Guarseed ........................................................................................................................ 62
Elcysma Ziroensis: New moth species discovered in Arunachal Pradesh ......................................................................................................... 63
India contributes $50,000 to UN Youth Envoy’s office ....................................................................................................................................... 63
IRFC’s green bonds: India INX lists 1st debt security at IFSC ............................................................................................................................ 64
India ranks 30th on WEF’s Global Manufacturing Index .................................................................................................................................... 64
India, Israel sign 9 agreements in space, defence, cybersecurity ........................................................................................................................ 65
January 16, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 65
International Workshop on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure held in New Delhi ............................................................................................ 65
65th meeting of Central Advisory Board of Education held in New Delhi ..................................................................................................... 65
India, Sri Lanka sign four agreements for collaboration in ICT sector ............................................................................................................ 66
IPrism: CIPAM-DIPP launches IP competition for college & university students ........................................................................................... 66
BBIN Motor Vehicles Agreement: India, Bangladesh, Nepal approve Passenger protocol ......................................................................... 67
Vajra Prahar: Indo-US joint military exercise to be held in Seattle .................................................................................................................... 67
3rd Raisina Dialogue held in New Delhi ................................................................................................................................................................. 68
Coast Guards of India, Japan undertake joint naval exercise .............................................................................................................................. 68

January 17, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 68
Odisha Government launches Mukshyamantri Kalakar Sahayata Yojana ........................................................................................................ 68
Sikkim Government allows people to forge fraternal ties with trees ................................................................................................................ 69
PM inaugurates Rajasthan’s first oil refinery at Barmer ....................................................................................................................................... 69
NITI Aayog launches first course under GIAN Program on Sustainable Urban Planning .......................................................................... 69
Government ends Haj subsidy ................................................................................................................................................................................... 70
Khap Panchayats can’t interfere in marriages of adults: Supreme Court ......................................................................................................... 70
Department of Commerce and CII ink MoU for development of Logistics sector ........................................................................................ 71
DAC clears procurements of assault rifles and carbines ....................................................................................................................................... 71
Maharashtra Government approves 1% reservation for orphans in government jobs .................................................................................. 72
January 18, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 72
PM Narendra Modi, Benjamin Netanyahu inaugurate iCREATE facility .......................................................................................................... 72
NPPA fixes retail price of 30 drug formulations .................................................................................................................................................... 72
Maharashtra becomes first state to unveil Public Cloud Policy .......................................................................................................................... 73
Xian smog tower: China builds world’s biggest air purifier ................................................................................................................................ 73
10th Global Forum for Food & Agriculture held Berlin ....................................................................................................................................... 74
President presents 2016 Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards ................................................................................................................................. 74
Akademi Fellows ........................................................................................................................................................................................................... 74
Music ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 74
Classical Dance .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 75
Theatre ............................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 75
Traditional/ Folk/Tribal Music/Dance/Theatre and Puppetry ......................................................................................................................... 75
Overall Contribution/ Scholarship in the Performing Arts ................................................................................................................................. 75
Government planning to set up of Cyber Warrior Police Force to tackle internet-related crimes ............................................................. 75
Agni-5 ballistic missile successfully test-fired ......................................................................................................................................................... 76
January 19, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 77
India to set up $350 million Solar Development Fund for solar projects ........................................................................................................ 77
Maharashtra approves Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivani Yojna to promote climate-resilient agriculture ............................................. 77
India’s First Automatic Early Warning Dissemination System to come up in Odisha ................................................................................... 78
Mangalajodi Ecotourism Trust of Odisha wins prestigious UNWTO Award ................................................................................................. 78
Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan crosses 1 crore mark ................................................................................................................... 79
Sudeep Lakhtakia appointed as new DG of National Security Guard .............................................................................................................. 79
Anandiben Patel appointed as Governor Madhya Pradesh ................................................................................................................................. 80
India joins Australia Group export control regime ............................................................................................................................................... 80
January 20, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 81
TRAI recommends allowing mobile services during air travel ............................................................................................................................ 81
2018 to be observed as National Year of Millets .................................................................................................................................................... 81
Mauritius was largest source of FDI in India in 2016-2017: RBI ...................................................................................................................... 82
Government launches National CSR Data Portal & Corporate Data Portal .................................................................................................... 82
Government launches Liveability Index to rate 116 Indian cities ........................................................................................................................ 83
MeitY launches Cyber Surakshit Bharat initiative .................................................................................................................................................. 83
Government announces 9 new Smart Cities .......................................................................................................................................................... 84
Mercedes-Benz first to launch locally-made BS-VI-compliant car .................................................................................................................... 84
Website Accessibility Project launched to make 100 websites accessible to persons with disabilities ....................................................... 85
January 21-22, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 85
Explained: Office of profit ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 85
Om Prakash Rawat appointed New Chief Election Commissioner ................................................................................................................... 86
Bharat Ke Veer anthem launched in New Delhi .................................................................................................................................................... 87
President felicitates 112 first ladies ............................................................................................................................................................................. 87
OPV Vijaya: Indian Coast Guard patrol vessel launched ...................................................................................................................................... 88
ONGC to acquire Government’s entire 51.11% stake in HPCL .......................................................................................................................... 88
Manipur Government launches health assurance scheme for poor & disabled people ................................................................................. 88
Government launches Protocol for Star Rating of Garbage-Free Cities .......................................................................................................... 89
January 23, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 89
Scientist S. Somanath takes charge as Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre ...................................................................................... 89
First International Dam Safety Conference held in Thiruvananthapuram ....................................................................................................... 90
India ranked 62nd on WEF’s Inclusive Development Index 2018 ..................................................................................................................... 90
India ranked 81st on Global Index of Talent Competitiveness ............................................................................................................................ 91
Indian economy to grow at 7.4% in 2018: IMF .................................................................................................................................................... 91
India inks $120 million loan agreement with World Bank to fund improved water supply in Uttarakhand ........................................... 92
First NIIF investment: To set up $3-billion platform with DP World ............................................................................................................... 92
India’s richest 1% corner 73% of wealth generation: Oxfam Survey ................................................................................................................ 93
January 24-25, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 93
Bharat Parv to be held at Red Fort on Republic Day ............................................................................................................................................ 93
Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi K Palanichamy receives UNESCO Award ............................................................................................................. 94
India Ranked 177 in Environmental Performance Index (EPI) ........................................................................................................................... 94
8th National Voters’ Day observed ........................................................................................................................................................................... 95
Narayanan appointed Director of ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre ................................................................................................. 95

Government to increase number of ‘AMRIT’ pharmacy stores 4 times .......................................................................................................... 96
Government announces 4 new schemes to promote young scientists ............................................................................................................. 96
UDAN Phase-II: 325 routes awarded; 40% for North East, hills ...................................................................................................................... 97
SARAS PT1N: Upgraded indigenous transport aircraft makes successful maiden flight ............................................................................ 98
MIS portal for Anganwadi Services Training Programme launched ............................................................................................................. 98
Government launches Rapid Reporting System for the Scheme for Adolescent Girls .............................................................................. 98
January 26, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 99
India, Vietnam sign two agreements ........................................................................................................................................................................ 99
Chinese scientists for first time successfully clone monkeys ............................................................................................................................... 99
ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit issues Delhi Declaration ................................................................................................................... 100
Ministry of Road Transport & Highways inks MoU with IL&FS for construction of Zojila tunnel ........................................................... 101
IAF Corporal Jyoti Prakash Nirala posthumously conferred with Ashok Chakra ......................................................................................... 101
2018 Padma Awards .................................................................................................................................................................................................. 102
Government announces PM’s Shram Awards for 2016 to 50 workers ......................................................................................................... 105
WEF launches Global Centre for Cybersecurity ................................................................................................................................................... 105
Rotavac: First India-designed vaccine to pass WHO test ................................................................................................................................... 106
January 27, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 106
Mehul Garg: Indian-origin boy sets new Mensa record .................................................................................................................................... 106
Alpha Design Technologies wins firing simulator order from India Army ................................................................................................... 107
India-Japan Smart Grid Pilot Project inaugurated in Panipat ............................................................................................................................ 107
Government relaxes norms of Atal Pension Yojana to expand coverage ....................................................................................................... 107
India to host informal WTO Ministerial gathering in March 2018 ................................................................................................................. 108
Punjab Government launches Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojana ............................................................................................................ 108
Kolkata becomes first Indian metro to get floating market .............................................................................................................................. 109
January 28, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 109
28 January 2018: World Leprosy Day .................................................................................................................................................................... 109
Asha Bhosle selected for fifth Yash Chopra Memorial Award ......................................................................................................................... 109
India’s Green Revolution pioneer Dr Gurcharan Singh Kalkat passes away .................................................................................................. 110
PM Narendra Modi to visit to Palestine, UAE, Oman in February 2018 ......................................................................................................... 110
India, Lao PDR sign civil aviation cooperation agreement ................................................................................................................................... 111
President Ram Nath Kovind launches Pulse Polio programme for 2018 ......................................................................................................... 111
India, Cambodia ink 4 pacts ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 111
MeITY launches Stree Swabhiman Initiative for Women Health and Hygiene .............................................................................................. 112
January 29, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 113
Acid attack victims to get quota in Central Government jobs ........................................................................................................................... 113
Australian Open 2018: Roger Federer wins Men’s Singles title ......................................................................................................................... 113
2018 Republic Day parade: Maharashtra wins best tableau prize .................................................................................................................... 114
NASA interested in India-made thermal spray coating technology .................................................................................................................. 115
Khelo India Pledge Launched at Khelo India School Games Carnival ............................................................................................................. 115
Parliamentary Group to confer Outstanding Parliamentarian Awards to five MPs ...................................................................................... 116
MHA to set up Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre in New Delhi ....................................................................................................... 116
VINBAX: Indian, Vietnam hold first military exercise in Jabalpur ..................................................................................................................... 116
Highlights of Economic Survey 2017-18 ................................................................................................................................................................ 117
January 30, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 118
Himachal Pradesh launches Zero Budget Natural Farming project to promote organic farming ............................................................. 118
Hicky’s Bengal Gazette: 238th anniversary of India’s first newspaper celebrated ........................................................................................ 118
President Ram Nath Kovind pitches for simultaneous elections ........................................................................................................................ 118
India becomes third largest producer of crude steel ............................................................................................................................................ 119
January 31, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 119
Soumitra Chatterjee presented with France’s Legion d’Honneur ..................................................................................................................... 119
Government inks $100 Million loan agreement for Project to Boost Rural Economy of Tamil Nadu ................................................... 120
Vinod Paul: First Indian to receive WHO’s IhsanDogramaci Family Health Foundation Prize .................................................................. 120
Government inks $250 Million Loan Agreement with ADB to Improve Rural Connectivity in 5 States ................................................ 121
Mihir: High performance computing facility inaugurated at Noida .................................................................................................................. 121
Government launches GeM 3.0 ............................................................................................................................................................................... 122
INS Karanj: Third submarine of Scorpene class launched ................................................................................................................................. 122
Thar Link Express receives extension for three more years ............................................................................................................................... 123
India 6th wealthiest country: New World Wealth Report .................................................................................................................................. 123

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Month Highlights: January – 2018

Government Policy and Schemes
GeM 3.0
The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has launched third version of the Government e-Marketplace (GeM 3.0).
The earlier version GeM 2.0 was launched as pilot project in August 2016.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
The Union Government has inked $250 Million Loan Agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) to
Improve Rural Connectivity in 5 States viz. Assam, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal
under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY).
Tamil Nadu Rural Transformation Project
The Union Government has inked $100 million Loan Agreement with World Bank for Project to Boost Rural
Economy of Tamil Nadu. The project aims to promote rural enterprises, facilitate their access to finance and create
employment opportunities for youth, particularly women in selected blocks of Tamil Nadu across 26 districts.
Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)
The Union Home Ministry will set up Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), an apex coordination
centre in New Delhi to deal with cybercrimes.It will be apex coordination centre to deal with cybercrimes based in
New Delhi. It will coordinate with State governments/UTs and closely monitor cyberspace and social media with
due emphasis on vernacular content.
Stree Swabhiman Initiative
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeITY) has launched Stree Swabhiman Initiative. Its aim is
to create sustainable model for providing adolescent girls and women an access to affordable sanitary products by
leveraging Common Service Centres (CSCs).
Pulse Polio Immunization (PPI) Programme
President Ram Nath Kovind has launched Pulse Polio Immunization (PPI) Programme for year 2018 by
administering polio drops to children at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The event was organised on the eve of the
National Immunisation Day (NID), observed on 28 January.
Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojna (MGSVY)
Punjab Government has launched Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojna (MGSVY) for the welfare of the
downtrodden citizen across the state. This scheme is aimed at the inclusive growth of the distressed sections of the
society. It will be on the line of Antyodaya principles and will be implemented in the state’s rural areas.
Atal Pension Yojana (APY)
The Finance Ministry has relaxed norms of Atal Pension Yojana (APY) to allow small finance banks and payment
banks to offer APY distribution. The move is expected to help expand coverage of the scheme and strengthen
existing channels of APY distribution.
India-Japan Smart Grid Pilot Project
India-Japan Smart Grid Pilot Project was inaugurated Panipat, Haryana to solve the various complications faced by
the power distribution sector. The project aims to make electricity distribution network smarter and disseminate
Japanese technologies in India.
Rapid Reporting System (RRS)
The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has launched beneficiary module (i.e. Phase -1)
of Rapid Reporting System (RRS), a web based on line monitoring for Scheme for Adolescent Girls (SAG).
MIS portal for Anganwadi Services Training Programme
The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has launched Management Information System
(MIS) portal for Anganwadi Services Training Programme. The portal has been developed by Ministry of WCD
in collaboration with National Informatics Centre (NIC).
UDAN Phase II
The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has awarded 325 air routes under the second phase of government’s flagship
UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam naagrik) regional connectivity scheme. Around 40% or 129 of 325 air routes were
awarded to newly created category of ‘priority areas’.
4 new schemes to promote young scientists and researchers
The Ministry of Science & Technology has announced four new schemes to promote young scientists and

researchers in the country. They are Teacher Associateship for Research Excellence (TARE) Scheme, Overseas
Visiting Doctoral Fellowship, Distinguished Investigator Award (DIA) and AWSAR (Augmenting Writing Skills
for Articulating Research).
AMRIT pharmacy stores
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has announced to increase number of AMRIT pharmacy stores by
four times by end of 2018 from the existing 111 outlets in bid to make low-cost medicines more accessible. It aims
to reduce expenditure incurred by patients on treatment of cancer and cardio vascular (heart) diseases to make
health care affordable for poor.
Protocol for Star Rating of Garbage-Free Cities
The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has launched the ‘Protocol for Star Rating of
Garbage-Free Cities’ in Goa. It has been developed under Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban for rating cities on 7-
star rating system based on multiple cleanliness indicators for solid waste management.
Chief Minister-gi Hakshelgi Tengbang (CMHT) Scheme
Manipur Government has launched the Chief Minister-gi Hakshelgi Tengbang (CMHT), a health assurance
scheme for the poor and disabled people. It will provide cashless treatment to poor at government hospitals, health
centres and other empanelled selected private hospitals.
Bharat Ke Veer Anthem
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has launched official anthem for “Bharat Ke Veer” sung and composed by
singer Kailash Kher. Bharat Ke Veer is an initiative with corpus fund to help the families of paramilitary troopers
killed in the line of duty. So far, it has raised Rs. 12.93 crore for kin of paramilitary personnel killed in the line of
duty.
Website Accessibility Project
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched Website Accessibility Project to make 100 websites
various State Governments/UTs accessible to persons with disabilities (Divyangjans) under Accessible India
Campaign.
9 new Smart Cities
Union Minister of Housing and Urban affairs Hardeep Singh Puri has announced a new batch of 9 smart cities
under Smart City Mission. The nine cities include three from Uttar Pradesh –Moradabad, Bareilly and
Saharanpur, Bihar Sharif (Bihar), Silvassa (Dadra and Nagar Havelli), Erode (Tamil Nadu), Daman and Diu,
Itanagar (Arunachal Pradesh) and Kavaratti (Lakshadweep).
Cyber Surakshit Bharat initiative
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched Cyber Surakshit Bharat initiative
to strengthen cybersecurity ecosystem in India in line Government’s vision for a ‘Digital India’. It was launched in
association with National e-Governance Division (NeGD) and industry partners.
Liveability index
The Ministry of Housing and Urban affairs (MoHUA) launched the Liveability index to rate 116 Indian cities.
Liveability index is tool that aims to measure quality of life in 99 smart cities, capital cities and those with a
population of over one million. It will be funded by the World Bank and ranking of these cities is expected to be
ready by June 2018.
National CSR Data Portal & Corporate Data Portal
The Union Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has launched National CSR Data Portal & Corporate Data Portal
for bringing accountability and transparency for corporate India. The portals aim to provide easy accessibility to
general public and also ensure high level of compliance. It will also help in institutionalising and consolidating the
CSR activities.
Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan
The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) has crossed one crore mark in antenatal check-ups. It
was launched in 2016 to ensure comprehensive and quality antenatal checkups to pregnant women across country.
It has provided quality antenatal checkups to pregnant women on the 9th of every month.
Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivani Yojna
Maharashtra Government has approved Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivani Yojna, a Rs.4,000-crore project aimed
at promoting climate-resilient agriculture. The scheme will be implemented in 5,142 villages across 15 districts.
Cyber Warrior Police Force (CWPF)
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided to set up Cyber Warrior Police Force (CWPF) to tackle
internet-related crimes such as cyber threats, child pornography and online stalking. This division will be set up
under MHA’s newly created Cyber & Information Security (CIS) Division.

Maharashtra’s Public Cloud Policy
Maharashtra became first state in country to unveil Public Cloud Policy that virtually mandates state government
departments to shift their data storage onto cloud. The policy will result in additional private sector investments
worth US $2 billion for cloud industry as government is one of biggest creators and consumers of data.
iCREATE facility
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu inaugurated iCREATE facility at
Deo Dholera Village in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. iCreate aims to develop an ecosystem in India to generate quality
entrepreneurs.
First course under GIAN Program
The NITI Aayog has launched first course on Sustainable Urban planning using remote sensing and Geographic
Information System (GIS) at IIT Kanpur’s outreach centre in Noida. This is first course conducted under Global
Initiative on Academic Network (GIAN) Program of Ministry of Human Resource Development. It is actively
supported by NITI Aayog and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Mukshyamantri Kalakar Sahayata Yojana
Odisha Government has launched Mukshyamantri Kalakar Sahayata Yojana (MMKSY) to provide financial
assistance to the literature and cultural artists of state. The scheme is mainly for the welfare of literature and
cultural artists of the state.
Saksham 2018 Campaign
The Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) under the aegis of Ministry of Petroleum & Natural
Gas has launched month long Saksham 2018 (Sanrakshan Kshamta Mahotsav). Saksham is annual flagship event of
PCRA with active involvement of Oil & Gas PSUs along with other stakeholders like State Governments.
Umesh Sinha Committee
The Election Commission (EC) has constituted 14 member committee headed by Umesh Sinha to suggest changes
to Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) in view of social media expansion.
SFOORTI application
The Union Ministry of Railways has launched Smart Freight Operation Optimisation & Real Time Information
(SFOORTI) application to help plan traffic flows and optimize freight operations. The app will help Freight
Managers to monitor and manage freight business using Geographic Information System (GIS) views and
dashboard.
Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given its approval to continuation of Members of
Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) till term of 14th Finance Commission i.e. 2020.
National Programme for Control of Viral Hepatitis
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is going to roll out National Programme for Control of Viral
Hepatitis, a new scheme free treatment of Hepatitis C from the 2018-19 financial year. Under the new scheme, the
focus will be on anti-viral treatment of Hepatitis C which will be provided free at all government health set-ups.
e-Sansad and e-Vidhan
The Union Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA) has proposed rolling out of e-Sansad in Parliament and e-
Vidhan in State Legislatures to digitize and make their functioning paperless. They aim to digitise and make
available Parliament and state legislature documents, including debates, speeches, committee reports and questions
on internet.
High-Risk Pregnancy portal
Haryana become first state in the country to launch High-Risk Pregnancy (HRP) portal. It has been launched as
part of the High Risk Pregnancy Policy of state implemented since November 2017.
BharatNet project
The Union Government has announced completion of first phase of BharatNet project after successfully laying
optical fibre cables (OFC) in more than 1 lakh gram panchayats. The second phase of the project was initiated in
November 2017 for connecting the remaining 1.5 lakh gram panchayats.
All India Higher Education Survey
The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education of Indian has registered an increase from 24.5% in 2015-16
to 25.2% in 2016-17 according to latest All India Higher Education Survey (AIHES) released by HRD Ministry.
Atal Pension Yojana
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority of India (PFRDA) has announced that Atal Pension
Yojana (APY) run by it has reached a subscriber base of 80 lakh and is growing at good pace. Uttar Pradesh is the
highest contributing state at 11.41 lakh APY subscribers, followed by Bihar (8.87 lakh) and Tamil Nadu (6.60
lakh).

Technology Mission for Indian Railways (TMIR)
Three Ministries viz. Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) and Ministry of
Science & Technology have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for joint funding of Technology
Mission for Indian Railways (TMIR). The MoU aims to facilitate co-financing of TMIR by investment sharing for
identified railway projects for applied research.
Jal Marg Vikas Project on NW-1
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved implementation of Jal Marg Vikas Project
(JMVP) for capacity augmentation of navigation on 1,380-km Haldia-Varanasi stretch of National Waterway-1
(NW1) on Ganga River. The project will be implemented with the technical assistance and investment support of
the World Bank. It is expected to be completed by March, 2023.
NARI portal and e-Samvad portal
The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has launched online portal NARI (nari.nic.in) for
the empowerment of women. It has been developed by the Ministry to provide easy access to information on
government schemes and initiatives for women.
Allied and Health care Professional Database
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched Allied and Health care Professional Database portal to
make data repository robust to ensure better systems and frameworks for healthcare workforce in country. The
database will help government to track the number of professionals and streams of allied and health care
professions in the country.
Science, Technology & Environment
Mihir high performance computer system
Ministry of Earth Science (MoES) has inaugurated high performance computer system (HPC) or supercomputer
Mihir (meaning sun) at National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting (NCMRWF), Noida. The HCP
will provide facility for improving weather/climate forecasts. It is country’s largest HPC facility in terms of peak
capacity and performance.
Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) project
Himachal Pradesh Government has launched Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) project to promote organic
farming. It was launched by Chief Minister, Jai Ram Thakur. The project aims to increase agriculture produce and
the income of farmers by the year 2022.
Yttria-Stabilised Zirconia (YSZ)-Plasma sprayed coating technology
NASA is interested in new India-made thermal spray coating technology used for gas turbine engine in spacecraft.
It has been developed by Dr. Satish Tailor, Rajasthan-based researcher working with Jodhpur-based Metallizing
Equipment Company (MEC).
SkyRev360
SkyRev360 is fully automated and comprehensive data gathering invoicing and collection service system. It has
been developed by Airports Authority of India (AAI) in collaboration with International Air Transport
Association (IATA) under the Government’s Make in India initiative
Rotavac
Rotavac became first indigenously developed vaccine from India to be pre-qualified by World Health Organisation
(WHO). It means that vaccine can be sold internationally to several countries in South America and Africa.
Global Centre for Cybersecurity
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has launched new Global Centre for Cybersecurity in a bid to safeguard
world from hackers and growing data breaches — especially from nation-states. The centre will be headquartered
in Geneva, Switzerland and will become operational from March 2018. It will function as an autonomous
organization under WEF.
Chinese scientists for first time successfully clone monkeys
Chinese scientists for first time have successfully cloned two identical long-tailed macaques (monkeys), named
Zhong Zhong and Hua Hua using same technique that produced Dolly sheep two decades ago. This development
makes them world’s first primates – the order of mammals that includes monkeys, apes and humans – to be cloned
from non-embryonic cell.
SARAS PT1N
SARAS PT1N, the new upgraded version of indigenous transport aircraft SARAS developed by National
Aeronautics Laboratory (NAL) successfully made its maiden flight in Bengaluru, Karnataka. It is a 14-seater
passenger aircraft designed and developed by CSIR-NAL, a frontline aerospace research laboratory. The
production version aircraft will have 19-seat capacity.

Environmental Performance Index (EPI)
India was ranked 177 among 180 countries in the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) – 2018. This index has
been developed by Yale University and Columbia University in collaboration with the World Economic Forum
and the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission.
Mangalajodi Ecotourism Trust
Mangalajodi Ecotourism Trust in Odisha has won prestigious United Nations World Tourism Organisation
(UNWTO) Award for Innovation in Tourism Enterprise at 14th UNWTO Awards ceremony held in Madrid,
Spain. The award was given in recognition of Mangalajodi’s business model that is both economically viable and
environmentally sustainable based on principles of community ownership and Eco Tourism.
India’s first automatic Early Warning Dissemination System
India’s first automatic Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS) will be commissioned by March 2018 in
Odisha. The project aims to establish fool-proof communication system to address existing gaps in disseminating
disaster warning up to community level.
Fraternal ties with trees
Sikkim Government has allowed people from state to forge fraternal ties with trees. It aims to preserve trees by
encouraging people to forge relationship of brotherhood or sisterhood with trees through tradition practice locally
known as Mitini or Mith/Mit.
Elcysma Ziroensis
Researchers from Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) have discovered a new species of moth, scientifically
named Elcysma Ziroensis from Talley Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh. Elcysma Ziroensis is commonly
called Apatani Glory, named after a local tribe called Apatani.
Xian smog tower
China has constructed Xian smog tower, an experimental air purifying tower touted to be the world’s biggest at
height of over 100 meters (328 feet) in an attempt to fight air pollution. The tower is built in Xian in Shaanxi
province and has brought positive effect on chronic smog problem in China.
IPrism
The Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM), Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP),
in collaboration launched ‘IPrism’ for college and university students. The one of its kind Intellectual Property (IP)
Competition was launched by CIPAM-DIPP in association with ASSOCHAM and ERICSSON India.
BeiDou-3 satellites
China has successfully launched two BeiDou-3 satellites to provide navigation and positioning services to
countries along Belt and Road initiative (BRI) by the end of 2018. The two satellites were designated as BeiDou-3
M7 and BeiDou-3 M8 (26th and 27th satellites) in BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS).
Captive breeding of Chiru
The Ministry of Environment and Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has refused to allow captive breeding
of Chiru (Tibetan antelope), whose underfur is used for making famous shahtoosh shawls.
JioCoin
Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd is planning to create its own cyptocurrency, JioCoin. The Jiocoin project is being led
by Mukesh Ambani’s elder son Akash Ambani. Under it, Reliance Jio is planning to build a 50-member team of
young professionals to work on blockchain technology.
Zuma mission
California-based Private spaceflight company SpaceX has launched secret Zuma Mission for US government. It
was launched on board of SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Cape Canaveral Air Force Station in Florida, US. It is a
secret mission in its nature or purpose and the agency behind it remains a mystery.
GOLD and ICON Missions
NASA will launch two missions — GOLD and ICON later this year. They will team up to explore the ionosphere,
located 96 km above Earth’s surface. The Global-scale Observations of the Limb and Disk (GOLD) mission will be
launched in January 2018 and Ionospheric Connection Explorer (ICON) will be launched later this year.
Pratyush: India’s fastest supercomputer unveiled
India’s fastest and first multi-petaflops (PF) supercomputer named Pratyush was unveiled at Pune-based Indian
Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). The supercomputer has been named as ‘Pratyush’ meaning Sun.
Flamingo festival
The three-day annual Flamingo Festival was held at Pulicat lake and Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary in Sullurpet mandal.
Flamingo Festival is held every year to promote tourism in Pulicat and Nellapattu.
4 new balsam species discovered in Arunachal Pradesh
Scientists have discovered four new balsam species from various locations in Eastern Himalayas in northeastern

state of Arunachal Pradesh. They are Impatiens haridasanii, Impatiens pseudocitrina, Impatiens nilalohitae and
Impatiens roingensis.
Typbar TCV
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has given its pre-qualification to Typbar Typhoid Conjugate Vaccine
(TVC) developed by Hyderabad based Bharat Biotech for global use. Typbar TCV is world’s first typhoid vaccine
clinically proven to be administered to children from six months of age to adults, and confers long-term protection
against typhoid fever.
Schistura larketensis
Scientists have discovered a new species of blind fish named Schistura larketensis inside a cave in East Jaintia Hills
district of Meghalaya. The fish has been named after Larket village, where the cave has been found to encourage
local people to take up biodiversity conservation.
Parker Solar Probe
NASA is going to launch Parker Solar Probe in 2018 to explore the sun’s outer atmosphere. It will be launched
onboard of Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle. It will perform its scientific investigations in a hazardous region of
intense heat and solar radiation. It will trace how energy and heat move through solar corona. Explore what
accelerates solar wind as well as solar energetic particles.
Mewa Singh’s night frog
Scientists have discovered new species of frog named Mewa Singh’s night frog (Nyctibatrachus mewasinghi) in
Kozhikode’s Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala in Western Ghats. It was discovered in small stream running
along the Peruvannamuzhi dam. It is latest contribution to spurt in amphibian discoveries across India.
2 new ginger species discovered in northeast
Botanical Survey of India (BSI) scientists have discovered two new species of ginger named Hedychium
chingmeianum and Caulokaempferia dinabandhuensis in easternmost districts of northeast India. Both the plants
belong to the family of Zingiberaceae, to which the commonly found ginger (Zingiber officinale) belongs.
Defence Related
INS Karanj
Indian Navy has launched Scorpene submarine INS Karanj at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd (MDL),
Mumbai, Maharashtra. It the third Scorpene class submarine built by MDL under ambitious Project 75 of the
Indian Navy.
VINBAX-2018
The India-Vietnam Bilateral Army Exercise (VINBAX-2018) was conducted at Jabalpur in Madhya Pradesh. It is
the first military exercise between the two countries.
Alpha Design Technologies Ltd
Alpha Design Technologies Ltd. has signed Rs. 45-crore deal with Ministry of Defence to supply indigenous
simulators for gunnery and missile firing from BMP II vehicles to Indian Army.
OPV Vijaya
The second indigenously built offshore patrol vessel (OPV) named Vijaya built by Larsen and Toubro (L&T)
Shipyard for Indian Coast Guard (ICG) was launched at Kattupalli Shipyard, Tamil Nadu. It is expected to be
inducted into service by September 2018 after trials on the equipment.
Agni-5 ballistic missile
Indigenously developed long-range surface-to-surface Agni-5 ballistic missile was successfully test fired
successfully from Abdul Kalam Wheeler Island, Odisha. It was overall fifth developmental trial test of the long-
range missile carried out by Strategic Forces Command of Indian Army to check its operational readiness.
Procurements of assault rifles and carbines
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has cleared
procurement proposal of 72,400 assault rifles and 93,895 carbines on fast track basis for Rs 3,547 crore.
Vajra Prahar
The Indo-US joint military exercise ‘Vajra Prahar’ will be held at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Seattle.
The aim of the exercise is to promote military relations between two countries by enhancing interoperability and
mutual exchange of tactics between Special Forces.
Rizhao
China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy has commissioned Rizhao, a new missile frigate, in a naval port in Dalian,
China. It is China’s indigenous missile frigate named after Rizhao city in Shandong Province of China.
INS Nirbhik and INS Nirghat warships
Indian Navy has decommissioned INS Nirbhik and INS Nirghat warships at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai

(Maharashtra), after a glorious 30 and 28 years respectively in the service of the nation.
Charlie-435
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has commissioned Charlie-435, a state-of-the-art patrol vessel at Karaikal in Union
Territory of Puducherry. It will help to strengthen coastal security between Chennai and Kanyakumari in the
Eastern Coastal region. It will be also of great help in rescuing fishermen who go adrift in sea due to bad weather.
Barak missiles, PGM bombs
The Defence Ministry has given its final approvals for the procurement of 131 Barak missiles for Indian Navy and
240 precision-guided munitions (PGM) for Indian Air Force (IAF) together estimated at Rs.1,714 crore.
Finance, Business and Economy
India 6th wealthiest country
According to New World Wealth Report, India was ranked sixth in list of wealthiest countries with total wealth
of US $8,230 billion in 2017.The total wealth, refers to private wealth held by all individuals living in each
country/city.
First NIIF investment
The NIIF has made its first investment by partnering with DP World to create $3-billion investment platform for
ports, terminals, transportation and logistics businesses in India. The platform will invest in opportunities in ports
sector and beyond sea ports into areas such as river ports and transportation, port-led special economic zones,
freight corridors, inland container terminals, and logistics infrastructure including cold storage.
Indian economy to grow at 7.4% in 2018: IMF
In the latest World Economic Outlook (January 2018 update) released by International Monetary Fund (IMF),
India is projected to grow at 7.4% of its gross domestic product (GDP) in 2018 as against China’s 6.8%. The
projection makes India fastest growing major economy in the world.
Global Index of Talent Competitiveness
India was ranked 81st among 118 countries in 2017 Global index of talent competitiveness (GTI) list. India has
improved its position from 92nd last year. The index measures ability of countries to compete for talent i.e. how
countries grow, attract and retain talent. It is produced by global business school INSEAD in partnership with
Adecco Group and Tata Communications.
Inclusive Development Index 2018
India was ranked at 62nd place among emerging economies on Inclusive Development Index (IDI-2018) released
by World Economic Forum (WEF). Norway again remained world’s most inclusive advanced economy, while
Lithuania again topped list of emerging economies. India’s position is much below China (26th) and Pakistan
(47th).
Mauritius: largest source of FDI in India in 2016-2017
According to Census on Foreign Liabilities and Assets of Indian Direct Investment Companies 2016-17 released
by Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Mauritius was largest source of foreign investment (FDI) in India. It was followed
by USA, UK, Singapore and Japan. Singapore (19.7%) was major ODI destination, followed by Netherlands,
Mauritius, and US.
Global Manufacturing Index
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has ranked India at 30th position among 100 countries on its Global
Manufacturing Index (GMI). The index was released as part of WEF’s first Readiness for the future of production
Report which analysed development of modern industrial strategies and urges collaborative action.
NCDEX launches India’s first agri-options trading in Guarseed
The National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange Ltd (NCDEX) unveiled India’s first agricultural-commodity
options in Guarseed designed as hedge for farmers to safeguard against price risks.
World Bank Report projects 7.3% growth for India in 2018
The 2018 Global Economics Prospect (GEP) released by the World Bank has projected India’s growth rate to 7.3%
in 2018 and 7.5 for the next two years i.e. 2019 and 2020.
Logistics Ease Across Different States index
Gujarat has topped among 22 states in the Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) index released by Union
Ministry of Commerce & Industry.Punjab has acquired second position followed by Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka
and Maharashtra.
7.75% Savings (Taxable) Bonds 2018
The Union Finance Ministry has launched 7.75% Savings (Taxable) Bonds, 2018 scheme to help citizens invest in a
taxable instrument, without any monetary ceiling. It will enable resident citizens/Hindu Undivided Families
(HUF) to invest in a taxable bond, without any monetary ceiling.

Events & Observances
28 January 2018: World Leprosy Day
The World Leprosy Day is observed internationally every year on last Sunday of January month to raise global
awareness of Leprosy. This year it was observed on 28 January. Observance of the day focuses on target of zero
cases of leprosy-related disabilities in children.
National Voters’ Day
The Election Commission of India (ECI) celebrated 8th National Voters’ Day across nation for enhanced
participation of citizens in electoral process. The objective of the Day is to increase enrollment of voters, especially
of newly eligible ones.
National Year of Millets
Government has approved 2018 as National Year of Millets to boost production of the nutrient-rich millets and
the sunrise agri industry involved in it. Earlier in November 2017, India had forwarded proposal to United
Nations (UN) for declaring year 2018 as ‘International Year of Millets’.
January 12: National Youth Day
The National Youth Day is observed every year on 12 January to mark the birth anniversary of social reformer,
philosopher, thinker and youth icon of India Swami Vivekananda. This year it is 155th birth anniversary of Swami
Vivekananda.
January 9: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is celebrated every year on January 9 to mark the contribution of Overseas
Indian community in the development of India. This year’s PBD celebrated ASEAN-Indian partnership and was
themed Ancient Route, New Journey: Diaspora in the Dynamic ASEAN INDIA Partnership.
Awards
Dr Vinod Paul
NITI Aayog member Dr Vinod Paul became first Indian to be awarded prestigious IhsanDoğramacı Family Health
Foundation Prize by World Health Organisation (WHO). It will be formally presented at World Health Assembly
to be held in Geneva, Switzerland in May 2018.
Soumitra Chatterjee
Legendary Bengali actor Soumitra Chatterjee (83) was awarded France’s highest civilian award, Legion d’Honneur.
He was awarded in recognition of his remarkable career and his outstanding contribution in promoting Indian
cinema in France and his long-standing attraction for our country.
Asha Bhosle
Legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle (84) was chosen for fifth edition of Yash Chopra Memorial Award for her
outstanding contribution to the Hindi film industry. She will be presented with award in February 2018 by
Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao.
Mehul Garg
Indian-origin boy Mehul Garg (10) in United Kingdom became youngest applicant in decade to achieve highest
score in Mensa IQ test, beating geniuses like Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking.
Jyoti Prakash Nirala
President Ram Nath Kovind awarded India’s highest peacetime military decoration Ashok Chakra (31)
posthumously to Indian Air Force (IAF) Garud commando Corporal Jyoti Prakash Nirala.
Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanichamy received UNESCO Award of Merit awarded to the iconic
Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple in Tiruchirapalli. The award of merit was awarded by UNESCO Asia Pacific
region for the reconstruction activities undertaken in temple without in least affecting its traditional splendour
and Vedic rituals.
Miscellaneous Terms and Facts
Thar Link Express
India and Pakistan have extended agreement of Thar Link Express, second solitary rail service between both
countries for three more years i.e. till 2021. The Thar Express links Jodhpur (India) and Karachi (Pakistan) via
Munabao (Rajasthan)-Khokhrapar (Sindh province) border crossing and carries only passengers.
Hicky’s Bengal Gazette
Journalists and social activists celebrated 238th anniversary of India’s first newspaper the Hicky’s Bengal Gazette.
29 January is also celebrated Hicky’s Day to pay tributes to the fighter-journalist James Augustus Hicky who is
considered as founder of journalism in India.
Floating market of Kolkata
Kolkata, capital of West Bengal became first metro city in India to get floating market. It is located on lake at
Patuli in South Kolkata which is 400 metres long and 60 metres wide. The lake has been transformed into the

floating market similar to the one in Thailand.
Zojila Tunnel
The Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has inked MoU with IL&FS Transportation Networks Ltd for
construction of the 14.150 km long, 2-lane bi-directional Zojila Tunnel in Jammu & Kashmir. It will be India’s
longest road tunnel and longest bi-directional tunnel in Asia. On completion, the tunnel will provide all weather
connectivity between Srinagar, Kargil and Leh.
ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit
The ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit was held in New Delhi to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the
establishment of sectoral dialogue between two sides under the theme of “Shared Values, Common Destiny”. It
issued joint statement titled Delhi Declaration after the plenary session focusing on counter-terrorism, identity
security, military cooperation, and bilateral financial support.
Bharat Parv
Cultural extravaganza Bharat Parv was held at the Red Fort in Delhi as part of the Republic Day celebrations. The
prime objective of the event is to promote rich cultural diversity of country, generate a patriotic mood and to
ensure wider participation of general public.
India joins Australia Group
India was admitted as the 43rd member of the Australia Group, an informal bloc (group) of countries that keeps a
tight control over exports of substances used in making of chemical weapons.
Solar Development Fund
India announced setting up of $350 million Solar Development Fund for financing solar projects under the
International Solar Alliance (ISA). It was announced at first ever ISA outreach programmes ‘International Solar
Alliance Forum’ held in Abu Dhabi’s World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2018.
BBIN Motor Vehicles Agreement
Bangladesh, India and Nepal agreed on text of operating procedures for passenger vehicle movement (Passenger
protocol) in sub-region under Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal (BBIN) Motor Vehicles Agreement (MVA).
3rd Raisina Dialogue held in New Delhi
The third edition of the geo-political conference – Raisina Dialogue was held in New Delhi. It was inaugurated by
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The theme of the conference for this year is ‘Managing Disruptive
Transitions: Ideas, Institutions and Idioms’.
UN Youth Envoy’s office
India has contributed $50,000 to United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres’s Office of Envoy on
Youth to help with its mission of involving young people in the world body’s goals.
Teen Murti Chowk renamed after Israeli city Haifa
The iconic Teen Murti Chowk in central New Delhi was renamed as Teen Murti-Haifa after Israeli City Haifa in
solemn ceremony attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu.
First PIO Parliamentary Conference held in New Delhi
The first-ever Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) Parliamentary Conference was held in the Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra
(PBK) in New Delhi. It was organised by Ministry of External Affairs to forge stronger ties with PIO.
Persons in news – Appointments / Elections/Died
Dr V Narayanan
Senior scientist Dr V Narayanan has assumed charge as Director of ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre
(LPSC). He succeeded S Somanath who was appointed as Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).
S Somanath
Noted scientist S Somanath took charge as Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC),
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He succeeded K Sivan, who was recently appointed as Chairman of ISRO.
Prakash Rawat
President Ram Nath Kovind has appointed Election commissioner Om Prakash Rawat (64) as new Chief Election
Commissioner. He will succeed Achal Kumar Joti who has retired from post.
Anandiben Patel
President Ramnath Kovind has appointed former Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel as Governor of Madhya
Pradesh. She will replace Gujarat governor Om Prakash Kohli who is holding additional charge of office of
Governor of Madhya Pradesh.
Sudeep Lakhtakia
Senior IPS officer Sudeep Lakhtakia was appointed as new Director General of National Security Guard (NSG).
Lakhtakia is a 1984-batch IPS officer of Telangana cadre. He is currently serving as special DG of Central Reserve
Police Force (CRPF).

Indu Malhotra
The Supreme Court collegium led by Chief Justice of India (CI) Dipak Misra has unanimously recommended name
of senior advocate Indu Malhotra for appointment as a judge of the Supreme Court. With this, she becomes first
woman lawyer from the country to be directly elected for post of judge of the Supreme Court.
K. Sivan
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed rocket scientist K. Sivan as next Secretary of
the Department of Space and Chairman of Space Commission and Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO). He
will succeed A.S. Kiran Kumar and will have term of three years.
Vijay Gokhale
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has appointed
senior diplomat Vijay Keshav Gokhale (58) as Foreign Secretary, highest post for a diplomat in the Ministry of
External Affairs (MEA).
Rajinder Khanna
The Appointment Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed Former Research and Analysis Wing (RAW)
chief Rajinder Khanna as Deputy National Security Advisor (NSA). In his new role, he will assist NSA Ajit Doval.
Gurcharan Singh Kalkat
Noted agricultural scientist and pioneer of India’s Green Revolution, Gurcharan Singh Kalkat (92), passed away in
Chandigarh after a brief illness. He was known for his role in bringing Green Revolution and several exemplary
agricultural reforms in Punjab.
John Young
Legendary astronaut of NASA John Young, who walked on the moon and later commanded the first space shuttle
flight passed away in Houston, US. He was NASA’s only astronaut to go into space as part of Gemini, Apollo and
space shuttle program, and the first to fly into space six times. He was 9th man to walk on moon.
Sports
Khelo India Pledge
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has launched Pledge for Khelo India at Khelo India School Games Carnival in
Delhi. The pledge resonates with vision of Khelo India programme and is aimed at inspiring youngsters to build
mass participation and excellence in sports.
Roger Federer
Swiss tennis player Roger Federer (World No. 2) has retained his Men’s Singles title by winning 2018 Australian
Open. In the summit clash played at Melbourne, he defeated Croatia’s Marin Cilic (World no. 6) in five sets 6-2,
6-7, 6-3, 3-6, 6-1.
Vidarbha
Vidarbha cricket team won 2017 Ranji Trophy tournament. It is Vidarbha’s first Ranji Trophy title. In the final
match held at Holkar stadium in Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Vidarbha thumped 9-wicket win over Delhi.
Date Wise: Current Affairs Updates
January 1, 2018
Vidarbha wins 2017 Ranji Trophy tournament
January 1, 2018
Vidarbha cricket team won 2017 Ranji Trophy tournament. It is Vidarbha’s first Ranji Trophy title. In
the final match held at Holkar stadium in Indore (Madhya Pradesh), Vidarbha thumped 9-wicket win
over Delhi.
After conceding 252-run first innings lead, Delhi was bowled out for 280 in their second innings,
setting a target of merely 29 runs for Vidarbha. Vidarbha lost only one wicket and took only five
overs to chase down the target.
Ranji Trophy
Ranji Trophy is a domestic first-class cricket championship played in India between teams
representing regional cricket associations. The trophy is named after England and Sussex cricketer
Kumar Shri Ranjitsinhji and was first played in 1934. At present, the championship is played between
27 teams which include 21 states (of 29 Indian states) and Delhi (UT). The format of Ranji Trophy is
Round-robin then knockout. Mumbai has won Ranji title for record 41 times (10 of them being won
with innings wins) after playing in record 45 finals.
2 new ginger species discovered in northeast
January 1, 2018
Botanical Survey of India (BSI) scientists have discovered two new species of ginger named

Hedychium chingmeianum and Caulokaempferia dinabandhuensis in easternmost districts of
northeast India. Both the plants belong to the family of Zingiberaceae, to which the commonly found
ginger (Zingiber officinale) belongs.
Key Facts
Hedychium chingmeianum: It was discovered in Tuensang district in Nagaland, both bordering
Myanmar. It is an epiphytic plant and grows on trunks of tall trees. It has reddish stems and creamy
white flowers.
Caulokaempferia dinabandhuensis: It was found growing in rock crevices, boulders and humus rich
soil in the Shirui Hills in Ukhrul in Manipur. It has beautiful oval-shaped pink flowers which appear
in June-July. It has been named after Mr. Dinabandhu Sahoo.
Significance
Out of 44 taxa, 31 species and 13 varieties of genus Hedychium found in India, only 5 are reported in
south India. The remaining species are all found in northeast. Most of the species under this genus
have medicinal properties. However, it is yet to be ascertained whether the newly discovered species
Hedychium chingmeianum has medicinal properties or not.
Nyctibatrachus mewasinghi: New night frog species discovered in Western Ghats
January 1, 2018
Scientists have discovered new species of frog named Mewa Singh’s night frog (Nyctibatrachus
mewasinghi) in Kozhikode’s Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary, Kerala in Western Ghats. It was discovered
in small stream running along the Peruvannamuzhi dam. It is latest contribution to spurt in
amphibian discoveries across India.
About Mewa Singh’s night frog
It belongs to genus Nyctibatrachus (commonly known as night frogs) endemic only to Western Ghats
mountain range. This group has total 36 number of night frogs including Mewa Singh’s night frog. It
has been named in honour of wildlife scientist Mewa Singh for his contributions to behavioural
ecology and primate studies.
The new night frog species is light brown in colour with an off-white underside. It sports faintly
wrinkled skin with prominent granular projections. Currently, it is known only from
Peruvannamuzhi in Malabar Wildlife Sanctuary in a small stream running along Peruvannamuzhi
dam.
Background
Since many frogs in genus Nyctibatrachus look similar, scientists had used both physical
characteristics as well as genetic methods to confirm frog as new species. Using tissue samples of 10
collected specimens of newly discovered species, scientists analysed portions of two genes and found
that it varied enough from other closely-related species to make it different species.
They also had found that frog’s genetically closest relatives are Athirappilly night frog (found south
of Palakkad Gap in Idukki and Thrissur) and Kempholey night frog (found in Western Ghats of
Karnataka and northern Kerala).
Morphologically, it can be distinguished from its similar-looking and genetically close relatives by
several physical characteristics, including pattern of its webbed fingers and toes.
Arunachal Pradesh declared open defecation-free State
January 1, 2018
Arunachal Pradesh was officially declared Open Defecation Free (ODF) state. It is second State from
Northeast, after Sikkim and overall fifth state after Himachal Pradesh, Kerala and Haryana to be
declared ODF state.
The announcement comes after three remaining districts – Upper Subansiri, Siang and Changlang
were officially declared ODF. Arunachal Pradesh has total 21 districts and it attained this major
cleanliness feat under Swach Bharat Abhiyan much before (one year and 10 months ahead) the
national deadline of October 2, 2019.
Background
Arunachal Pradesh had under taken ODF project under Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin) SBM (G) by
extending incentive of Rs 8,000 per toilet. This was addition to Central Government’s support of Rs
12,000, raising the grant for constructing a toilet to Rs 20,000.
The State government also had launched Swachh Arunachal Mission on October 2, 2017 at Tawang

which envisaged Swachh Protocol (Cleanliness Protocol) aimed at ensuring sustainability of assets
created under SBM (Gramin).
Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)
The SBM was launched in October 2014 to achieve universal sanitation coverage and to put focus on
sanitation. It aims to achieve Swachh Bharat or make India clean by 2019, as a fitting tribute to the
150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
The SBM consists of two sub-missions Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), implemented in rural areas,
and Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), implemented in urban areas. SBM-G seeks to eliminate open
defecation in rural areas by improving access to sanitation by ensuring the use of toilets, besides
their construction.
It also seeks to generate awareness to motivate communities to adopt sustainable sanitation
practices, and encourage the use of appropriate technologies for sanitation. Open defecation is an
important factor for causing various diseases like intestinal worm infections, diarrhoea, polio,
hepatitis etc.
NASA to launch Parker Solar Probe to explore sun’s outer atmosphere
January 1, 2018
NASA is going to launch Parker Solar Probe in 2018 to explore the sun’s outer atmosphere. It will be
launched onboard of Delta IV Heavy launch vehicle. It will perform its scientific investigations in a
hazardous region of intense heat and solar radiation.
Primary goals of mission: Trace how energy and heat move through solar corona. Explore what
accelerates solar wind as well as solar energetic particles.
Parker Solar Probe mission
It is NASA’s planned robotic spacecraft to probe outer corona of Sun. It has been designed and built
by Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory. It is named after solar astrophysicist
Eugene Parker. This is first time NASA spacecraft named after living person.
The spacecraft is designed to endure harsh environment near Sun, by approaching within 8.5 solar
radii (5.9 million kilometers) to ‘surface’ (photosphere) of Sun where incident solar intensity is
approximately 520 times intensity at Earth orbit. It will be protected by solar shadow-shield made of
reinforced carbon-carbon composite.
The spacecraft systems and scientific instruments are located in central portion of shield’s shadow,
where direct radiation from Sun is fully blocked. The primary power for mission is dual system of
solar panels (photovoltaic array). Secondary source consists of much smaller secondary array power
that uses pumped-fluid cooling to maintain operating temperature. It will use Venus’ gravity during
seven flybys over nearly seven years to gradually bring its orbit closer to Sun. It will achieve velocity
of up to 200 km/s, making it fastest spacecraft to date.
Scientific goals
Determine structure and dynamics of magnetic fields at sources of solar wind.
Trace flow of energy that heats corona and accelerates solar wind.
Determine what mechanisms accelerate and transport energetic particles.
Explore dusty plasma near Sun and its influence on solar wind and energetic particle formation.

Saudi Arabia, UAE introduce VAT for first time

January 1, 2018
Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates (UAE) became first countries of Gulf Cooperation Council
(GCC) to introduce Value Added Tax (VAT) for the first time to increase their revenue away from oil
reserves. The other members of 6 member GCC– Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar — have also
committed to introduce VAT, though some have delayed plans until at least 2019.
Key Facts
The rate for VAT is set at 5% on the majority of goods and services including petrol and diesel, food,
clothes, utility bills and hotel rooms. Number of goods and services including medical treatment,
financial services and public transport have been placed in either zero rated or in exempt category.
Comment
In Saudi Arabia, more than 90% of budget revenues come from oil industry while in UAE it is roughly
80%. Organisations such as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) had long called for Gulf countries
to diversify their sources of income away from oil reserves. Both countries have already taken steps
to boost government coffers.
Value Added Tax (VAT)
A VAT is type of consumption tax that is placed on product whenever value is added at stage of
production and at point of retail sale. It is one of the most common types of consumption tax
implemented in more than 150 countries around the world. It is charged at each step of the ‘supply
chain’. Final consumers generally bear the VAT cost while businesses collect and account for the tax,
in a way acting as a tax collector on behalf of the government.
GAIL commissions India’s second largest rooftop solar plant in UP
January 1, 2018
State-owned gas utility GAIL India Ltd has commissioned India’s second largest rooftop solar power
plant in Uttar Pradesh. It is 5.76 MWp (Mega Watt peak) solar plant installed at GAIL’s petrochemical
complex at Pata in UP. The plant has over roofs of warehouses covers a total area of 65,000 square
meters.

It is expected to produce Peak Load Factor (PLF) of around 15% annually, over 79 lakh KWh of
electricity is targeted to be generated for captive use of India’s largest gas-based petrochemicals
plant.
Largest rooftop solar plant in India
India’s largest rooftop solar plant was commissioned in December 2015 by Tata Power Solar in
Amritsar, Punjab. It is 12 MWp solar rooftop project, which produces more than 150 lakh units of
power annually. It offsets over 19,000 tonne of carbon emissions every year.
Comment
India is planning to have 40 GW of rooftop photovoltaics (PV) by 2022. The Captive solar power
initiative of GAIL will reduce carbon emissions by 6,300 tonnes per annum and help India achieve
climate goals
Gas (India) Limited (GAIL)
GAIL is the largest state-owned natural gas processing and distribution company in India. It is
headquartered in New Delhi. It has following business segments: natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas
transmission, liquid hydrocarbon, city gas distribution, petrochemical, exploration and production,
GAILTEL and electricity generation. It was conferred with the Maharatna status in February 2013 by
the Government of India. Only six other Public Sector Enterprises (PSEs) enjoy this coveted status
amongst all central CPSEs.
India and Pakistan exchange list of nuclear sites for 27th consecutive year
January 1, 2018
India and Pakistan have exchanged list of their nuclear installations and facilities with each other
under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear installations. This is the 27th
consecutive exchange of such list between two countries after first list was exchanged on 1 January
1992.
This is an annual exchange of conducted in 1st January between them to prevent them from
attacking each other’s nuclear facilities. The exchange is part of an agreement between the two
nuclear-armed neighbours meant to prevent attacks on nuclear facilities by each other.
Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear installations
It is a bilateral agreement signed between India and Pakistan that bars them from carrying out any
surprise attack (or to assist foreign power to attack) on each other’s nuclear installations and
facilities. It was signed on 31st December 1988 and entered into force on 27 January 1991. It was
signed by then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and his Pakistani counterpart Benazir Bhutto.
Under it, both countries inform each other about their nuclear installations and facilities that need to
be covered under the Agreement on 1 January every year.
January 2, 2018
Schistura Larketensis: New species of blind fish discovered inside Meghalaya cave
January 2, 2018
Scientists have discovered a new species of blind fish named Schistura larketensis inside a cave in
East Jaintia Hills district of Meghalaya. The fish has been named after Larket village, where the cave
has been found to encourage local people to take up biodiversity conservation.
Key Facts
Schistura larketensis has lost its sight during its living evolution in perpetual darkness inside the
cave. It has also lost its pigments too while adapting to its habitat in the dark waters.The orbital
diameter of fish decreases gradually as its matures with eyes completely absent in older individuals.
Small and faintly blackish spot-like depressions are seen in place of eyes, indicating evolutionary and
morphological adaptations.
Background
Researchers had discovered the new blind fish in cave during an expedition several years ago. The
cave is about 880 meters above sea level and over 7 km in length. The new fish sample was collected
from small stagnant pools which are of few square meters in area and about 1-2 metres in depth.
These pools are about 1600 feet high from main entrance of cave. The pool bed is mostly sandy with
pebbles.
Significance
Though there are about 200 known species of similar kind of fish inhabiting streams and rivers

throughout Indochina and Southeast Asia, this is first such discovery of blind fish. The new fish
species can be immediately distinguished from all other species of Schistura (excluding Schistura
papulifera for its vestigial subcutaneous eyes appearing as black spots). The high level of siltation,
pollution and acidification in Jaintia Hills due to coal mining and cement plants is threatening local
cave biodiversity.
Government appoints Vijay Gokhale as new Foreign Secretary
January 2, 2018
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has
appointed senior diplomat Vijay Keshav Gokhale (58) as Foreign Secretary, highest post for a
diplomat in the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).
He will have a two-year term and shall succeed S Jaishankar, who completes his extended tenure in
January 2018. Jaishankar was appointed foreign secretary in January 2015, for two years, just a few
days before his retirement. Foreign Secretary is the
Vijay Keshav Gokhale
He is 1981-batch officer of Indian Foreign Service (IFS). He is considered an expert on China and is
proficient in the use of Mandarin. Currently he is secretary (Economic Relations) in the Ministry of
External Affairs. Earlier he was India’s Ambassador to China from January 2016 to October 2017.
He has also served as India’s top envoy to Germany between October 2013 and January 2016. He has
worked in Indian missions in Hong Kong, Hanoi, Beijing and in New York.
He also has held the posts of director (China and East Asia) and then joint secretary (East Asia) in the
MEA which covers India’s ties with China, Japan, Mongolia, Taiwan, North Korea and South Korea.
He had played key role in 2017 India-China negotiations to resolve the 73-day standoff between
Indian Army and Chinese Army (PLA) at Doklam Plateau, a tri-junction between Sino-India and
Bhutanese border near Sikkim.
Health Ministry launches Allied and Health care Professional Database
January 2, 2018
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched Allied and Health care Professional
Database portal to make data repository robust to ensure better systems and frameworks for
healthcare workforce in country. The database will help government to track the number of
professionals and streams of allied and health care professions in the country.
Allied and Health care Professional Database
The AHP portal has a capacity of capturing more than 10 lakh Allied and Healthcare Professionals’
(AHP) data. It will be helpful in expediting envisaged processes viz. licensing of professionals,
workforce policy planning, and bringing transparency in system by maintaining standards of
educational and clinical practice etc. More than 3000 professionals have already registered on portal
during the testing phase.
How it works?
The AHPs can visit portal on link mentioned above and provide basic personal, qualification and
professional information. The portal will also send auto-generated email to registered email of
candidate for verification and will provide enrolment reference number for further usage. The
candidates subsequently can login to portal using credentials received in email and edit information,
upload qualification degree among other details.
Core sectors’ record 6.8% growth in November 2017
January 2, 2018
According to the data released by the Commerce and Industry Ministry, the eight core sectors
expanded at fastest pace in more than year at 6.8% in November 2017.
These eight industries — coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertilisers, steel, cement and
electricity — had witnessed a growth of 3.2 per cent in November 2016.
Key Facts
The output growth in November 2017 is highest since October 2016, when these core sectors had
witnessed 7.1% rise. The growth was recorded on account of robust performance in segments like
refinery (rose by 8.2%), steel (16.6%) and cement (17.3%) on an annual basis in November 2017.
Crude oil and natural gas output too registered positive growth in November 2017. But coal output
growth rate recorded a negative growth. Cumulatively, the growth in the eight core sectors during

April-November this fiscal slowed to 3.9% as against 5.3% in the same period last fiscal.
Core industry can be defined as main industry of economy. In most countries, there is particular
industry that seems to be backbone of all other industries and it qualifies to be t core industry. In
India, there are eight core sectors comprising of coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products,
fertilisers, steel, cement and electricity.
The electricity has the maximum weight of 10.32% followed by Steel (6.68%), Petroleum Refinery (5.94%),
Crude Oil production (5.22 %), Coal production (4.38 %), Cement (2.41%), Natural Gas production (1.71
%) and Fertilizer production (1.25%). Healthy growth in these key eight sectors has positive
implications on Index of Industrial Production (IIP) as these eight segments account for about 41% of
the total factory output.
Karnataka receives approval for purchase of electric vehicles under FAME India scheme
January 2, 2018
The Department of Heavy Industries (DHI) of Union Government has given its approval to Karnataka
government for purchase of electric vehicles (EVs) under FAME India subsidised scheme.
The state will purchase 40 electric buses, 100 four wheelers and 500 three wheelers at maximum of
60% subsidy under the scheme. The subsidy support is also provided for setting up electricity
charging infrastructure across state capital Bengaluru. The EVs will ply in city as public transport
which will protect environment, save fossil fuel and ensure public health.
FAME India Scheme
The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of (Hybrid &) Electric Vehicles (FAME) India was launched
in 2015 under the National Electric Mobility Mission (NEMM) aims at promoting eco-friendly
vehicles in the country. It is being administered by the Heavy Industries Ministry.
The objective of scheme is to provide fiscal and monetary incentives for adoption and market
creation of both hybrid and electric technologies vehicles in the country. It also aims at incentivising
all vehicle segments, including two-wheelers, three wheeler auto, passenger four-wheeler vehicle,
light commercial vehicles and buses.
The scheme covers hybrid and electric technologies like a strong hybrid, plug-in hybrid and battery
electric vehicles. Its mandate is to support hybrid or electric vehicles market development and its
manufacturing eco-system in country in order to achieve self-sustenance in stipulated period.
Fact Sheet: 2G Scam Verdict
January 2, 2018
A special court acquitted A Raja and all other accused in the 2g spectrum issue, considered as one of
the largest scams in the country in the tenure of Manmohan led UPA govt. The shocking part is that
all of them have been accused because of lack of evidence.
What is 2g spectrum?
2g is an abbreviation of wireless telephone technology. The word ‘spectrum’ refers to range of radio
waves that are used for communication purposes .Since waves surround us all the times and pass
through everything ,this means that spectrum needs to be monitored.
So the government divides the spectrum which is a national wealth into bands and and manages the
spectrum across the country by assigning to different telecom circles.
Thus, in order for a telecom company to offer continual access across India , it would have to bid for

spectrum licenses in 22 existing circles. Now a spectrum like any other natural resource is required
to be auctioned by the government to companies that can use this to provide a number of services.
What was the case?
The scam dates back to 2011 when A Raja, the main accused and telecom minister from 2007 to 2010,
was arrested by the CBI on charges of colluding with private companies and granting them spectrum
licences at unjustly low prices causing a huge loss to the public exchequer. It involved politicians,
bureaucrats and corporate executives whose nexus with each other resulted in a huge loss to the
exchequer. Supreme Court on a PIL even declared the allotment as unconstitutional and cancelled
the 122 licences issued under A Raja ministerial period. Following were the key irregularities found in
the case:
Undervalued the telecom spectrum leading to a presumptive loss of Rs 1.76 lakh crore, according to Comptroller
and Auditor General report.
License distribution was done on a distorted first come first served basis and that too at 2001 prices when a
competitive bidding process should have been followed.
Granting license to front companies which was not allowed. For eg- Swan Telecom was not even allowed to bid
for spectrum being a front company for the Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group.
Cut off dates were advanced arbitrarily to 25 th september from 1 st october 2007 without informing
TRAI.Moreover, allegedly application counters were shut to block competing companies from applying for
licences. It is said On 25 September, the DOT announced on its website that applicants filing between 3:30 and
4:30 pm that day would be granted licenses.
Does the 2g spectrum case raise questions on the capability about efficacy of the institution of CBI?
Despite filing the charge sheet of more than 80,000 pages supported by CAG findings of loss to the
exchequer to the tune of 1.76 lakh crore and further investigation of more than 6 years ,CBI failed to
establish the criminality of any of the accused. This raises questions on the CBIs credibility as an
institution. Moreover, the image has not only been dented by this case but also due to its conduct in
the previous cases.
The root of the problem is that the CBI does not have a proper statuary enactment which can ensure
its autonomy.
Parliament passes Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code Amendment Bill, 2017
January 2, 2018
Parliament has passed Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2017 after it was passed
by both the houses. The Bill amends Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016, and replaces
Ordinance promulgated in November 2017 to pave way for tightening loopholes in existing code and
make resolution process more effective.
Background
The IBC was enacted by the Parliament in 2016 to find time-bound resolution for ailing and sick
firms, either through closure or revival, while protecting interests of creditors. Successful
completion of resolution process is expected to aid in reducing rising bad loans (NPA-non
Performing assets) in the banking system.
Key Features of Bill
The bill redefines resolution applicant mentioned in code as person who submits resolution plan
after receiving invite by insolvency professional to do so. It amends provision related to eligibility in
IBC to state that insolvency professional will only invite those resolution applicants to submit plan,
who fulfil certain criteria laid down by him with approval of committee of creditors and other
conditions which may be specified by Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board.
It prohibits certain persons from submitting resolution plan in case of defaults. These include: (i)
wilful defaulters, (ii) promoters or management of the company if it has outstanding non-performing
debt for over year and (iii) disqualified directors, among others.
The bill bars the sale of property of a defaulter to such persons who is ineligible to be a resolution
applicant during liquidation. It inserts provision to specify that person contravening any provisions
of IBC, for which no penalty has been specified, will be punishable with fine ranging between Rs. 1
lakh to Rs. 2 crore.

Government launches NARI portal and e-Samvad portal

January 2, 2018
The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has launched online portal NARI
(nari.nic.in) for the empowerment of women. It has been developed by the Ministry to provide easy
access to information on government schemes and initiatives for women.
NARI portal
The NARI portal will provide information to women on issues affecting their lives. The portal
summarise over 350 government schemes and other important information. The schemes are
divided into 7 different categories — health, education, housing and shelter, employment, addressing
violence, decision making and social support. It elaborates how Government is focussed to
economically empower women through schemes under Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
It will also provide tips on good nutrition, suggestions for health check-ups, information on major
diseases, tips for investment and savings advice, job search and interview, information on crimes and
against women and reporting procedures, contacts of legal aid cells, simplified adoption procedures
and much more.
It will endow women with power of information to build their life skills and facilitates them in taking
full advantage of services provided by Government for them. It also provides link to Ministries,
Departments and autonomous bodies offering these schemes as well as easy access to online
applications and grievance redressal.
e-Samvad portal
The MWCD also launched the portal to provide platform for NGOs and Civil Societies to interact with
the ministry. Through it, NGOs and civil society can provide their feedback, suggestions, put up
grievances, share best practices etc. This will help in formulation of effective policies and measures
for welfare of women and children.
Parliament passes NABARD (Amendment) Bill, 2017
January 2, 2018
Parliament has passed the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Amendment) Bill,
2017 with the approval of Rajya Sabha. Lok Sabha already had passed the bill in August 2017.
The Bill seeks to amend National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) Act, 1981.
The Act establishes NABARD for providing and regulating facilities like credit for agricultural and
industrial development in the rural areas.
Key Features of the Bill
The Bill allows Union Government to increase capital of NABARD from Rs. 5000 crore to Rs 30,000
crore. Further, it allows Union Government to increase the capital more than Rs 30,000 crore in
consultation with the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), if necessary.
The Bill provides that Union Government alone must hold at least 51% capital share of NABARD.
Further, it transfers share capital held by RBI valued at Rs. 20 crore to Union Government. Currently
RBI holds 0.4% of paid-up capital of NABARD and remaining 99.6% is held by Union government and
this causes conflict in RBI’s role as banking regulator and shareholder in NABARD.
The Bill replaces terms ‘small-scale industry’ and ‘industry in tiny and decentralised sector’ with
terms ‘micro enterprise’, ‘small enterprise’ and ‘medium enterprise’ as defined in MSME
Development Act, 2006. Further, it allows NABARD to provide financial assistance to banks if they
provide loans to the MSMEs.
The Bill substitutes references to provisions of the Companies Act, 1956 with references to the
Companies Act, 2013. It includes provisions dealing with definition of a government company and
qualifications of auditors.
January 3, 2018
China develops underwater surveillance networks in Indian Ocean, South China Sea
January 3, 2018
China has successfully developed new underwater surveillance network to help its submarines get
stronger lock on targets while protecting nation’s interests along maritime Silk Road, which also
includes Indian Ocean. The project is part of unprecedented military expansion fuelled by China’s
desire to challenge United States in world’s oceans.

Underwater surveillance network
The network is underwater surveillance system based on network of platforms — buoys, satellites,
surface vessels and underwater gliders — that gather data from Western Pacific, South China Sea
and Indian Oceans. The system works by gathering information about underwater environment,
particularly water temperature and salinity, which navy can then use to more accurately track target
vessels as well as improve navigation and positioning. The new surveillance system will enable
Chinese submarines to steer a much safer course through difficult waters as well as improving their
targeting ability.
Defence Ministry gives final nod for Barak missiles, PGM bombs
January 3, 2018
The Defence Ministry has given its final approvals for the procurement of 131 Barak missiles for
Indian Navy and 240 precision-guided munitions (PGM) for Indian Air Force (IAF) together estimated
at Rs.1,714 crore. The proposals were cleared by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. It is a regular
procurement through the revenue expenditure.
Precision-guided munitions (PGM)
The 240 KAB-1500 PGMs will be procured from Rosoboronexport of Russia at a cost of Rs.1,254 crore.
PGM is variant of the KAB PGMs. It has been in service of IAF and has been employed by Su-30
fighter jets. Due to the value of the contract, the approval of Defence Ministry was required,” a
defence official said. This procurement will address the deficiency of Precision Guided Munitions in
IAF arsenal and also enhance offensive capabilities of the IAF.
Barak surface-to-air missiles (SAM)
131 Barak surface-to-air missiles (SAM) and associated equipment will be bought from Israel’s Rafael
Advanced Defence Systems Ltd for Rs.460 crore. They will be installed on all frontline warships of the
Indian Navy. These are SAM designed to be used as a ship-borne anti-missile defence system.
Former RAW Chief Rajinder Khanna Appointed Deputy National Security Advisor
January 3, 2018
The Appointment Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed Former Research and Analysis
Wing (RAW) chief Rajinder Khanna as Deputy National Security Advisor (NSA).
He has been appointed without a fixed tenure and would remain at the post until further orders. In
his new role, he will assist NSA Ajit Doval.
Rajinder Khanna
He is 1978-batch Research and Analysis (RAS) cadre officer. He had headed RAW from December 2014
for a fixed two-year period. He is considered as the father of counter-terrorism unit in the RAW and
has led many counter-terrorism operations in the spy agency and is reportedly an expert on Pakistan
and Islamic terrorism. He also has been in the forefront of seeking cooperation from intelligence
agencies around the globe.
After his stint in RAW, he was appointed Officer on Special Duty (Neighbourhood Studies) in
National Security Council Secretariat, the apex body on all internal and external security-related
matters headed by the Prime Minister. Neighbourhood Studies prepares policy papers of
neighbouring countries including Pakistan, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh and Nepal.
National Security Advisor (NSA)
The NSA is the chief executive of National Security Council (NSC) and primary advisor to Prime
Minister on national and international security and oversees strategic issues. It is the NSA to whom
intelligence agencies such as RAW and Intelligence Bureau report, rather than directly to Prime
Minister. Due to such vested powers, NSA is prominent and powerful office in the bureaucracy. NSA
is assisted by a Deputy NSA.
The post was created in November 1998 by Atal Bihari Vajpayee Government. Brajesh Mishra was
first to be appointed NSA of India. Since the inception of the post, all NSAs appointed belong to
Indian Foreign Service (IFS) except M K Narayanan and incumbent, Ajit Doval, who belong to the
Indian Police Service.
MHA exempts cruise tourists with e-visa from biometric enrolment till 2020
January 3, 2018
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on request of the Ministry of Shipping has exempted cruise
tourists arriving with e-visa from the requirement of biometric enrolment for a period of three years

i.e. till 2020. The purpose of the move is to promote cruise tourism in the country and make India
attractive cruise tourist destination.
Key Facts
This simplified immigration clearance procedure will make immigration clearance of such
passengers faster, leaving them with more time to spend on shore. This is also important factor that
will help cruise lines decide whether or not to include a destination in their itinerary. This simplified
immigration clearance procedure is part of a series of steps to attract and to enhance cruise
passenger experience at the major ports.
Background
The Ministry of Shipping has been working towards simplifying immigration clearance procedure
and providing passengers with customer friendly and hassle free logistics process when they embark
on or disembark from their cruise at Indian ports.
E-visa facility is being implemented in five major ports viz. Mumbai, Mormugao, New Mangalore,
Cochin and Chennai. Till now biometrics of passengers were required at port of first arrival for
immigration clearance. However, the immigration procedure was taking more than internationally
accepted norm of clearing immigration for all cruise passengers in a maximum of 90 minutes.
Lok Sabha passes Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment) Bill,
2017
January 3, 2018
Lok Sabha has passed The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains (Amendment)
Bill, 2017 to allow government to take up infrastructure projects within prohibited areas around
protected monuments. The Bill amends the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and
Remains (AMASR) Act, 1958.
AMASR Act, 1958
The AMASR Act provides for preservation of ancient and historical monuments and archaeological
sites and remains of national importance. It provides for the regulation of archaeological excavations
and for protection of sculptures, carvings and other like objects. It was passed in 1958. The
Archaeological Survey of India functions under the provisions of this act.
The Act prohibits construction in ‘prohibited area’, an area of 100 meters around protected
monument. It does not permit construction in such prohibited areas even if it is for public purposes,
except under certain conditions. The central government can extend the prohibited area beyond 100
meters.
The Bill amends provision related construction in ‘prohibited areas’ in the parent bill to permit
construction of public works in ‘prohibited areas’ for public purposes. It introduces definition for
‘public works’, which includes construction of any infrastructure that is financed and carried out by
central government for public purposes.
The Bill empowers central government to allow public works based on recommendation of National
Monuments Authority (NMA) on application forwarded by relevant central government department,
that seeks to carry out construction for public purposes in a prohibited area.
The Bill empowers NMA to consider an impact assessment of proposed public works in prohibited
area, including its archaeological impact, visual impact and heritage impact. NMA will make a
recommendation, for construction of public works to the central government, only if it is satisfied
that there is no reasonable possibility of moving the construction outside the prohibited area.
Government announces details of electoral bonds for political funding
January 3, 2018
The Union Government has announced details of electoral bonds for political funding that can be
routed by donors to political parties. The electoral bonds scheme was announced in Union Budget
2017 with an aim for increasing transparency in political funding. It makes India first country in the
world to have such unique bonds for electoral funding.
Details of electoral bonds
Electoral bonds will be bearer instrument in nature of promissory note and an interest-free banking
instrument. These can be redeemed only through the registered accounts of a political party in a
prescribed time frame. It aims at rooting out current system of largely anonymous cash donations

made to political parties which lead to generation of black money in the economy.
Denominations: Electoral bonds can be purchased for any value in multiples of Rs.1,000, Rs.10,000,
Rs.10 lakh, and Rs.1 crore from any of the specified branches of State Bank of India (SBI).
Purchasers: A citizen of India or a body incorporated in India will be eligible to purchase the bond.
The purchaser is allowed to buy electoral bonds only on due fulfilment of all extant KYC norms and
by making payment from a bank account. It will not carry the name of the payee.
Validity: It will have a life of 15 days during which they can be used to make donations to registered
political parties. The bond can be encashed by an eligible political party only through a designated
bank account with the authorised bank.
The electoral bonds will be available for purchase for a period of 10 days each in months of January,
April, July and October with additional 30 days to be specified by Central government in year of
general election so that this does not become a parallel currency.
Eligibility: Political parties that have secured not less than 1% of votes polled in last general election
to Lok Sabha or Assembly can avail funding through this bonds.
Significance
According to Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), most political parties use lax regime on
donations to accept cash donations from anonymous sources. Nearly 70% of Rs. 11,300 crore in party
funding over an 11-year period came from unknown sources. The electoral bonds will prompt donors
to take banking route to donate, with their identity captured by the issuing authority.
Cabinet approves establishment of new AIIMS at Bilaspur
January 3, 2018
The Union Cabinet approved establishment of new All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at
Bilaspur in Himachal Pradesh under Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY).
The new AIIMS will be completed in a period of 48 months. It will consist of a hospital with a capacity
of 750 beds and trauma centre facilities and have 20 Speciality and Super-Speciality Departments
including 15 Operation Theatres. It will also have Medical college with an intake of 100 MBBS
students per year and Nursing college with an intake of 60 B.Sc. (Nursing) students per year.
Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana
PMSSY was announced in 2003. Its objectives are correcting regional imbalances in the availability of
affordable/reliable tertiary healthcare services and augment facilities for quality medical education
in the country. It establishes AIIMS in various regions of India apart from different government
colleges. It is funded from different centrally sponsored schemes relating to creating infrastructure
on health.
Under this scheme, AIIMS have been established in Bhubaneshwar (Odisha), Bhopal (Madhya
Pradesh), Raipur (Chhattisgarh), Jodhpur (Rajasthan), Rishikesh (Uttarakhand) and Patna (Bihar)
while work of AIIMS Rae Bareli (Uttar Pradesh) is in progress. Also, three AIIMS in Nagpur
(Maharashtra), Kalyani (West Bengal) and Mangalagiri in Guntur (Andhra Pradesh) have been

sanctioned in 2015, two AIIMS have been sanctioned at Bathinda (Punjab) and Gorakhpur (Uttar
Pradesh) in 2016 and in Kamrup (Assam).
January 4, 2018
Cabinet approves MoU between India and UK in transport
January 4, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved signing and implementation of Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) between Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) and ‘Transport for London’.
Transport for London is a statutory body established under the Greater London Authority Act, 1999
(UK) to improve Public Transport in India.
Key Facts
The MoU will help to improve the overall public transport system in country, improve passenger
services and promote use of high capacity buses in India. It will go long way in strengthening ties
and promoting bilateral relations between India and UK. It will also help in strengthening integrated
public transport for all. This will help people from poorer strata of society to have access to a quality
public transport system.
Bharat Biotech’s Typbar-TCV: WHO approves Indian typhoid vaccine for global use
January 4, 2018
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has given its pre-qualification to Typbar Typhoid Conjugate
Vaccine (TVC) developed by Hyderabad based Bharat Biotech for global use.
Typbar TCV is world’s first typhoid vaccine clinically proven to be administered to children from six
months of age to adults, and confers long-term protection against typhoid fever. It has been
evaluated in Human Challenge Studies at Oxford University.
Significance
The WHO pre-qualification enables procurement and supplies of this life-saving vaccine to UNICEF,
Pan-American Health Organisation (PAHO) and GAVI (vaccine alliance) supported countries. This
also paves the way for WHO member countries to introduce the Typbar TCV into their immunization
programs.
TCVs are innovative products having longer-lasting immunity than older vaccines and require fewer
doses. They can be given to young children through routine childhood immunization programs.
TCVs have been recommended by WHO’s Strategic Advisory Group of Experts on Immunization
(WHO-SAGE).
Typhoid
Typhoid fever is caused by bacterium Salmonella Typhi (S. Typhi). It infects humans due to
contaminated food and beverages from sewage and other infected humans. Its symptoms include
fever, fatigue, headache, abdominal pain, and diarrhoea or constipation.
Currently, a third of global population is at risk of typhoid fever, which results in loss of work and
wages, lowered pregnancy outcomes and impaired the physical and cognitive development of
children. According to International Health Metrics and Evaluation (IHME) estimates in 2016, there
were approximately 12 million cases of typhoid fever resulting in around 130,000 deaths.
Urbanisation and climate change have potential to further increase global burden of typhoid.
Cabinet approves Indo-Myanmar agreement on land border crossing
January 4, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved Agreement between India and Myanmar on Land Border Crossing.
It is an enabling arrangement for movement of people across border of both counties.
The agreement is expected to provide connectivity and enhance interaction of people of North
Eastern States of India with the people of Myanmar.
Significance
The agreement will facilitate movement of people on basis of valid passports and visas which will
enhance economic and social interaction between two countries. It will facilitate regulation and
harmonization of already existing free movement rights for people ordinarily residing in border
areas of both countries.
It will also give boost to economy of North East and leverage geographical connections with
Myanmar to boost trade and people to people ties. It will also safeguard traditional rights of largely
tribal communities residing along border which are accustomed to free movement across land

border.
Background
India shares 1,643-km long border with Myanmar. It passes through four northeaster states of
Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram. At present both countries have unique visa-free
movement regime for people living within 16 km on either side of the border.
Free movement regime (FMR) was bilateral agreement between India and Myanmar that allows free
movement of Indian and Myanmarese citizens within 16 km of the border without visa restrictions
for 72 hours. Its purpose is to alleviate insecurity of tribals living along India and Myanmar border
as they still continue to have trans-border linkages with their kiths and kins.
This regime has been in place to protect traditional social relations among border people. However, it
has been misused by militants and criminals who are using it to smuggle weapons, narcotics,
contraband goods and Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN).
CCEA approves construction of bi-directional Zojila Tunnel in J&K
January 4, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved construction, operation and
maintenance of 2-lane bi-directional Zojila Tunnel on Srinagar-Leh section connecting NH-1A in
Jammu and Kashmir
The strategic tunnel will provide all-weather connectivity to strategically important Leh region. On
completion, it will be Asia’s largest 2-lane bi-directional tunnel.
Key Facts
The Zojila Tunnel will be situated at an altitude of 11,578 feet on Srinagar-Kargil-Leh National
Highway (NH-1A). The Project aims at construction of 14.150 km long 2-lane bidirectional single tube
tunnel with a parallel 14.200 km long egress (escape) tunnel excluding approaches between Baltal &
Minamarg in J&K at estimated cost of Rs 6,089 crore.
The main objective of the project is to provide all whether connectivity to strategically important Leh
region in J&K which at moment is limited to at best 6 months because of snow on the mountainous
passes and threat of avalanches. Ladakh region remains cut off from rest of the country during
winter months due to heavy snowfall.
The project will be implemented by Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) through
the National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Limited (NHIDCL) on
Engineering, Procurement and Construction (EPC) mode.

Significance
The construction of this tunnel will provide all weather safe, fast and cheap connectivity connectivity
between Srinagar, Kargil and Leh. It will bring about all round economic and socio-cultural
integration of these regions. It also has strategic and socio-economic importance and it will be
instrument for development of economically backward districts in J&K. The project, on completion,
will also lead to enormous boost in employment as local businesses get linked to National market and
beautiful region is able to receive round the year tourist traffic.
CCEA approves implementation of Jal Marg Vikas Project on NW-1
January 4, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved implementation of Jal Marg Vikas
Project (JMVP) for capacity augmentation of navigation on 1,380-km Haldia-Varanasi stretch of
National Waterway-1 (NW1) on Ganga River.
The project will be implemented at a cost of over Rs. 5,370 crore rupees with the technical assistance
and investment support of the World Bank. It is expected to be completed by March, 2023.
Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP)
JMVP was announced by Government in 2014-15 Budget to enable commercial navigation of at least
1500 tonne vessels on the Ganga river. The project envisages the development of waterway between
Allahabad and Haldia on Ganga River that will cover a distance of 1620 km.
The project covers Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. The major districts under its
ambit are Varanasi, Ballia, Ghazipur, Chhapra, Buxar, Patna, Vaishali, Khagaria, Begusarai, Munger,
Bhagalpur, Sahibganj, Murshidabad, Pakur, Hooghly and Kolkata.
The project aims to develop a fairway with three metres depth to enable commercial navigation of at
least 1500 tonne vessels on the river. It also includes the development of fairway, multi-modal
terminals, strengthening of open river navigation technique, conservancy works, modern River
Information System (RIS) etc.
The World Bank has provided technical assistance and financial support to the project. Besides, WB’s
lending arm International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) will provide loan of Rs 2,
512 crore for the project. Union government provide Rs 2,556 crore from budgetary allocation and
proceeds from bond issue. Moreover, private sector participation under Public-Private Partnership
(PPP) mode will provide Rs.301 crore.

Major Impact
Development and operations of NW1 will provide alternative mode of environment friendly and cost
effective transport mode. The project will contribute in bringing down the logistics cost in the
country and reduce traffic burden and congestion on roads and railways. It will result into mammoth
infrastructure development like multi-modal and inter-modal terminals, Roll on-Roll off (Ro-Ro)
facilities, ferry services, navigation aids. It will also give impetus to socio-economic development and
result in employment generation.
Scientists discover four new balsam species in Arunachal Pradesh
January 4, 2018
Scientists have discovered four new balsam species from various locations in Eastern Himalayas in
northeastern state of Arunachal Pradesh. They are Impatiens haridasanii, Impatiens pseudocitrina,
Impatiens nilalohitae and Impatiens roingensis. Infrastructure project like road widening works,
deforestation and other development activities are posing a threat to the natural habitat of the new
species.
Key Facts
Impatiens haridasanii: It was discovered in Pongchan. The species is characterised by small yellow
flowers and hairy leaves. It has been named after Haridasan, former scientist, State Forest Research
Institute, Arunachal Pradesh, for his contribution to the taxonomy of the north-eastern States.
Impatiens pseudocitrina: It was discovered in Anjaw district. It sports bright yellow flowers with
small red spots on the throat and has long spur at the back. Its name denotes similarities with I.
citrina.
Impatiens nilalohitae: It was discovered from the Lower Dibang valley. It grows to height of more
than one metre and has dark purple flowers with pale yellow throat and green stalk. Its name
denotes dark purple colour in Sanskrit.
Impatiens roingensis: It was found growing in Roing and Upper Siang. It has clustered white flowers
with yellow patch on the mouth and hooked spur.
Balsams
Balsams are commonly known as jewel weeds because of diverse colour of their flowers. They are
distributed throughout the Eastern Himalayas and the Western Ghats, Sri Lanka, South East Asia,
Africa and Madagascar. Their genus is called Impatiens, signifying impatient nature of their fruits
which explode when touched. India is home to more than 230 balsam species.
CCEA approves extension of norms for mandatory packaging in Jute Materials
January 4, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved extension of mandatory packaging
norms of foodgrains and sugar in jute material for Jute Year 2017-18 (i.e. July 2017 to June 2018).
The mandatory extension was approved under the Jute Packaging Material (JPM) Act, 1987. The
approval mandates that 90% of food grains and 20% of sugar products shall be mandatorily packed in
jute bags.
Key Facts
The decision also mandates, in first instance, entire requirement for packing of food grains will be
placed in jute bags. Thus it makes provision for 100% packing of food grains in jute bags subject to
ability of jute industry to meet the requirement. The decision will also help to sustain core demand
for jute sector and support livelihood of the workers and farmers dependent on the sector.
The provision of mandatory packaging will benefit jute farmers and workers in jute industry located
in Eastern and North Eastern regions of country particularly in West Bengal, Assam, Bihar, Odisha,
Andhra Pradesh, Meghalaya and Tripura.
Jute industry
Jute industry is predominantly dependent on Government sector which purchases jute products
more than Rs. 5,500 crore every year. Government has been making concerted efforts for the
development of jute sector considering that nearly 3.7 lakh workers and approximately 40 lakh
farmers are dependent for their livelihood on jute sectors. Government is also making concerted
efforts for development of jute sector. It is increasing quality and productivity of raw jute,
diversification of jute sector and also boosting and sustaining demand for jute product.

January 5, 2018
NMCG approves five Namami Gange projects in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand
January 5, 2018
The National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) has approved five Namami Gange projects worth Rs
295.01 crore in West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Uttarakhand.
Out of these 5 projects, three pertain to sewage management in West Bengal, one relates to sewage
management in Uttarakhand and remaining one is related to ghat improvement works in Uttar
Pradesh. Projects related to sewage management are located in high pollution load towns along river
Ganga.
Approved Projects
Uttarakhand: The approved project includes laying sewer lines in some of uncovered areas in
Haridwar.
Varanasi: The approved project includes repair and retrofitting of various ghats. It aims to
strengthen poor condition of ghats through bolder pitching and stone steps to ensure improved life
of ghats apart from avoiding risk and inconvenience to the visitors and pilgrims.
West Bengal: The sewage management works approved are in Kamarhati and Baranagar
Municipalities (60 MLD STP, de-silting of sewer lines etc.) under PPP-based Hybrid Annuity mode. It
also includes pollution abatement works for river Ganga in Berhampore Municipality (3.5 MLD STP
and sewer network) and sewage management works in Nabadwip Municipality (9.5 MLD STP and
renovation of 10.5 MLD STP).
In Uttarakhand, approval was given to one project for laying of sewer lines in some of the uncovered
areas in Haridwar at an estimated cost of Rs 4.68 crore.
National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG)
NMCG is implementation wing of National Council for Rejuvenation, Protection and Management of
River Ganga (also referred as National Ganga Council). It was established in 2011 as registered society
under Societies Registration Act, 1860.
It has a two tier management structure and comprises of Governing Council and Executive
Committee. Both of them are headed by Director General (DG), NMCG. Executive Committee is
authorized to approve projects under mission up to Rs.1000 crore.
Similar to structure at national level, State Programme Management Groups (SPMGs) acts as
implementing arm of State Ganga Committees. This structure attempts to bring all stakeholders on
one platform to take a holistic approach towards the task of Ganga cleaning and rejuvenation.
US puts Pakistan on Special Watch List for severe violations of religious freedom
January 5, 2018
The United States has placed Pakistan on ‘Special Watch List’ for “severe violations” of religious
freedom. It is only country to be put under the newly-formed list.
Moreover, US also re-designated about 10 countries as ‘Countries of Particular Concern’ under its
International Religious Freedom (IRF) Act. They are Burma (Myanmar), China, Eritrea, Iran, North
Korea, Sudan, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.
Key Facts
As per US, Pakistan was placed in this list because it continues to harass its religious minorities,
tolerates extra-judicial violence in the guise of opposing blasphemy. Moreover it has state-sanctioned
discrimination against groups such as Ahmadis. According to research, Pakistan is one of countries
with most restrictions on religion.
Special Watch List
The Special Watch List is for countries that engage in or tolerate severe violations of religious
freedom but may not rise to level of ‘Countries of Particular Concern’ (CPC). It is new category
created by Frank R Wolf International Religious Freedom Act of 2016. The designations are aimed at
improving respect for religious freedom in these countries.
The Special Watch List designation to countries is step below designating it as CPC, which
automatically imposes economic and political sanctions. The Frank R Wolf International Religious
Freedom Act amended International Religious Freedom (IRF) Act to require President to designate
‘Special Watch List’ of countries deemed not to meet all of CPC criteria but who engaged in or

tolerated severe violations of religious freedom.
Under the IRF Act of 1998, US Secretary of State annually designates governments that have engaged
in or tolerated systematic, ongoing, and egregious violations of religious freedom as CPC. These
designations are aimed at improving the respect for religious freedom in these countries.
Health Ministry and Tata Memorial Centre launch first digital Online Oncology Tutorial
January 5, 2018
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched India’s first digital Online Oncology
Tutorial Series designed by Tata Memorial Centre (a grant-in-aid cancer centre under Department of
Atomic Energy, GOI).
It was launched under the Digital India initiative as part national program that will be rolled out
across the country by Tata Memorial Centre (TMC) in collaboration with state governments.
Oncology literally means a branch of science that deals with tumours and cancers. The word “onco” means bulk/ mass/
tumor while “-logy” means study.
Key Facts
The Oncology Tutorial Series aim to train doctors across country to educate them in early detection,
prevention, palliation, rehabilitation and treatment of various cancers.
The overall course is designed for 7 weeks with different modules based on various sites and sub-
sites of Cancer. It comprises of 14 hours of comprehensive e-learning through more than 40 video
lectures, case studies, assessment questionnaires and periodic interactive Webinar sessions with
respective consultants of TMC.
It also includes, blended learning delivery model with self-paced e-learning and periodic webinar
interactions with expert consultants of TMC and Continuous scientific updates in Oncology, along
with end-of-course Online Assessments with enhanced reporting for individuals.
Through this initiative, the Health Ministry and Tata Memorial Centre will try to reach millions of
doctors who may not have time to attend physical conferences, CMEs and are busy working in rural
or tier 2 cities.
Defence Ministry clears Rs.2420 Crore worth contracts for Navy, Army
January 5, 2018
The Union Ministry of Defence (MoD) has approved procurement of P-8I Training Solution for Indian
Navy and Low Intensity Conflict Electronic Warfare System (LICEWS) for Indian Army at total cost
of Rs 2419.32 crore.
These contract proposals were earlier cleared by Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) and now final
approval has now been given by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Low Intensity Conflict Electronic Warfare System (LICEWS)
This system will be procured from Bharat Electronics Limited for Rs. 470 crore. It will equip Indian
Army with upgraded communications infrastructure that will help forces to effectively deal with
advanced communications systems being used by terrorist groups.
P-8I Training Solution
The P-8I Training Solution will be brought from Boeing for Rs.1949.32 crore. It will be brought along
with 10-year comprehensive maintenance service. This training solution accurately simulates P-8I
aircraft and mission systems. It will help Indian Navy realistically train and rehearse for
sophisticated missions involving P-8I aircraft, at fraction of the cost of live aircraft training.
The P-8I aircraft manufactured by Boeing is equipped for long range anti-submarine warfare, anti-
surface warfare, surveillance, intelligence and reconnaissance in support of broad area, maritime and
littoral operations. Its communication and sensor suite includes indigenous equipment developed by
defence PSUs and private manufacturers. It is capable of instant punitive response and maintaining
watch over India’s immediate and extended areas of interest.
The first P-8I aircraft was inducted in Indian Navy in 2013. As of date, 8 aircraft based at INS Rajali in
Tamil Nadu have been fully integrated into Indian Naval operations. In 2016, MoD placed follow-on
order for 4 additional P-8I and their delivery will begin in 2020.
Government launches 7.75% Savings (Taxable) Bonds 2018
January 5, 2018
The Union Finance Ministry has launched 7.75% Savings (Taxable) Bonds, 2018 scheme to help

citizens invest in a taxable instrument, without any monetary ceiling. It will enable resident
citizens/Hindu Undivided Families (HUF) to invest in a taxable bond, without any monetary ceiling.
Key features of Bonds
The Bonds are open to investment by individuals (including Joint Holdings) and HUFs. Non-Resident
Indians (NRIs) are not eligible for making investments in these nonds.
The Bonds will be issued at par i.e. at Rs.100.00 They will be issued for minimum face value amount
of Rs.1,000 and in multiples thereof. There will be no maximum limit for investment in the Bonds.
The Bonds will have maturity of 7 years carrying interest at 7.75% per annum payable half- yearly.
The Bonds will be issued in demat form (Bond Ledger Account) only.
The Bonds are not transferable and also are not tradeable in secondary market. They are also not
eligible as collateral for loans from banking institutions, non-banking financial companies or
financial institutions.
Interest on the Bonds will be taxable under the Income-tax (IT) Act, 1961 as applicable according to
the relevant tax status of the bond holder. However these Bonds will be exempt from Wealth-tax
under Wealth Tax Act, 1957.

Lok Sabha passes Bill to hike salaries of judges

January 5, 2018
The Lok Sabha passed High Court and Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service)
Amendment Bill, 2017 to hike the salaries of judges of the Supreme Court (SC) and High Courts (HCs).
The Bill seeks to amend HC Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1954; and SC Judges
(Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1958. These Acts regulate salaries and conditions of service

of judges of HCs and SC.
Salary: The Bill proposes to hike the salary of Chief Justice of India (CJI) to Rs.2.80 lakh a month and
that of judges of Supreme Court
and Chief Justices of High Courts to Rs. 2.5 lakh a month. It increases salary of Judges of High Courts
to Rs.2.25 lakh a month. The salary hike will come into force with effect from January 1, 2016.
Allowances: The Bill also seeks to revise this allowance with effect from September 22, 2017. The CJI
will get allowance of Rs. 45,000 a month. Judges of Supreme Court and Chief Justices of High Courts
will get allowance of Rs. 34000 a month. Judges of High Court will get allowance of Rs. 27000 a
month.
Pension: The Bill seeks to revise the pension for judges under two categories mentioned in parent
acts viz. if they have previously held pensionable post under central or state governments, or if they
have not held any such post. It proposes pension of Rs. 16,80,000 per annum to CJI. Judges of the
Supreme Court and Justice of High Court will get pension of Rs. 15,00,000 per annum.
Background
The salary hike in line with recommendations of 7th Pay Commission for officers of all-India services.
The CJI gets a higher amount than this while judges of High Courts get lesser amount. Moreover,
these judges are provided with rent-free accommodation while they are in service.
The salaries and allowances CJI and Supreme Court judges are charged from Consolidated Fund of
India. The salaries and allowances of state high court judges including chief justices are charged from
Consolidated Fund of State. However, retired Judges are entitled to pension which is drawn from
Consolidated Fund of India.
Railways, HRD and S&T Ministry ink MoU on Technology Mission for Indian Railways
January 5, 2018
Three Ministries viz. Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) and
Ministry of Science & Technology have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for joint
funding of Technology Mission for Indian Railways (TMIR).
Features of MoU
The MoU aims to facilitate co-financing of (TMIR) by investment sharing for identified railway
projects for applied research. The percentage division of the funding between the three ministries for
Technology Mission for Indian Railways’ is Ministry of Railways: 30% , Ministry of HRD: 25% and
Department of Science & Technology: 25%.
Under the MoU, Ministry of HRD and Ministry of S&T have agreed to fund TMIR projects to the tune
of Rs 75 crore each while Railways and Industries would also be contributing to their respective
shares.
Technology Mission for Indian Railways
The Ministry of Railways had set up TMIR as consortium of Ministry of Railways, Ministry of HRD
and Ministry of Science & Technology on investment sharing model for taking up identified railway
projects for applied research and use on Indian Railways. TMIR is tasked to take up research and
development projects in the areas of heavy haul, safety, energy, environment and urban railways.
These projects will be implemented through Mission Implementation and Coordination Committee

having members from the three Ministries, academia and industry. Moreover, these projects will be
implemented in the national research and development labs and academic institutions. Moreover
collaborations will be also entered with foreign institutions wherever essential.
Significance
Indian Railways will be benefitted with availability of world class indigenized technologies at very
reasonable cost through this consortium approach for technology development in mission mode.
Moreover, academic research institutions will be also benefitted with applied research and real
situation output in form of new products for immediate use. The Indian industries will also get
benefited in form of production of new items to be used on Indian Railways with additional export
potential.
NASA to launch two missions — GOLD and ICON to explore the ionosphere
January 5, 2018
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) will launch two missions — GOLD and
ICON later this year. They will team up to explore the ionosphere, located 96 km above Earth’s
surface.
The Global-scale Observations of the Limb and Disk (GOLD) mission will be launched in January 2018
and Ionospheric Connection Explorer (ICON) will be launched later this year.
Key Facts
The two missions will be complementary to each other. ICON will launched in low-Earth orbit (LEO)
located at 560 km above Earth, like a close-up camera. GOLD will be launched in geostationary orbit
over Western Hemisphere, about 35,398 km above earth. It will help in full-disk view of ionosphere
and upper atmosphere beneath it every half hour.
The two missions can cooperate with each other when ICON passes through GOLD’s field of view
and each mission can get snapshot of same region. This overlap in their data will make it easier to
identify reasons for changes in upper atmosphere at a given time.
One of missions’ goals is to measure how upper atmosphere changes in response to hurricanes and
geomagnetic storms. GOLD will also explore how upper atmosphere reacts to geomagnetic storms,
which are temporary disturbances of Earth’s magnetic field caused by solar activity.
At night, GOLD will examine disruptions in ionosphere, which are mainly dense, unpredictable
bubbles of charged gas that appear over equator and tropics, sometimes interfere with radio
communications.
Ionosphere
The ionosphere is located between 60 and 400 km above the mesopause. It contains electrically
charged particles known as ions, and hence, it is known as ionosphere. Radio waves transmitted from
the earth are reflected back to the earth by this layer and is used for radio propagation to distant
places on the Earth. In this layer temperature starts increasing with height.
January 6, 2018
26th World Book Fair held in New Delhi with focus on environment
January 6, 2018
The 26th edition of annual World Book Fair was held in New Delhi. It was organised by National Book
Trust (NBT), under Ministry of Human Resource Development in association with India Trade
Promotion Organisation.
The theme for this year is ‘Environment and Climate Change’. It focuses on environment issues like
climate change, global warming, and water pollution. European Union was Guest of Honour Country for
this year’s book fair.
Key Facts
The annual book fair saw participation of around 800 publishers from across the country in different
languages. The event’s Theme Pavillion had international rights exhibition of nearly 500 titles
published in English, Hindi, and other Indian languages. Apart from EU nations, more than 40
countries including Belgium, Canada, China, Denmark, Egypt, France, Germany, and United Kingdom
also participated.
The fair also witnessed panel discussions, talks, workshops, children’s activities, screening of short
films, special photo exhibits as well as cultural and musical performances. The discussions,
conversation were mainly organised with authors and environmentalists where experts discussed

ways through which environment can be saved from further deterioration.
Background
The annual New Delhi World Book Fair was started in 1972 in New Delhi with only 200 participants.
Over the years it has grown exponentially and now has 886 and 800 participants as publishers in
2016 and 2017, respectively. The fair serves as meeting point of readers and publishers. The theme for
2016 was ‘Manushi’ and had focused on writings on and by women from ancient times till the
present.
Income Tax Department launches on-line chat service
January 6, 2018
Income Tax (IT) Department under the Union Finance Ministry has launched an on-line chat service
on its national website www.incometaxindia.gov.in with a prominent icon stating ‘Live Chat Online-
ask your query’.
It was announced by Minister of State (MoS) for Finance, Shiv Pratap Shukla while replying in the
Lok Sabha. Since its launch in October 2017 it has altogether benefited 8,424 people.
Key Facts
The on-line chat service is aimed at facilitating the taxpayers resolve their queries by answering
their basic queries and doubts relating to direct tax issues. The facility is available on all working
days from Monday to Friday between 10 AM and 6 PM.
The module can also be accessed through a mobile application called ‘AayakarSetu’ on Android
phone. Customer support executive having expertise in tax-related matters through this platform
helps users in resolving their queries on-line.
Moreover, it has dedicated team of experts from IT department and independent tax practitioners to
answer general queries of a taxpayer. This first-time initiative is aimed to enhance taxpayer services
in the country.
Atal Pension Yojana reaches subscriber base of 80 lakh
January 6, 2018
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority of India (PFRDA) has announced that Atal
Pension Yojana (APY) run by it has reached a subscriber base of 80 lakh and is growing at good pace.
Uttar Pradesh is the highest contributing state at 11.41 lakh APY subscribers, followed by Bihar (8.87
lakh) and Tamil Nadu (6.60 lakh).
Atal Pension Yojana (APY)
APY became operational from June 1, 2015 with an aim to provide affordable universal access to
essential social security protection to unorganized work force of country, which makes major chunk
of labour force (88%). It had replaced Swavalamban scheme.
It is available to all citizens of India in the age group of 18-40 years (thus minimum period of
contribution by subscriber is 20 years). Under scheme, subscriber will receive a minimum
guaranteed pension of Rs.1000 to Rs.5000 per month, depending on his contribution, from age of 60
years.
There is no exit to the scheme before the age of 60. In case of death of subscriber, the spouse of the
subscriber shall be entitled for the same amount of pension till his or her death.
Forex Reserves scale record high of $409.366 billion in December 2017
January 6, 2018
According to Reserve Bank of India (RBI), India’s foreign exchange (Forex) reserves have scaled to
fresh record high of $409.366 billion as on December 29, 2017. The surge was due to massive spike in
foreign currency assets, which is key component of the reserves.
Forex Reserves
The forex are reserve assets held by a central bank in foreign currencies. It acts as buffer to be used
in challenging times and used to back liabilities on their own issued currency as well as to influence
monetary policy. Almost all countries in world, regardless of size of their economy, hold significant
foreign exchange reserves.
The components of India’s FOREX Reserves include Foreign currency assets (FCAs), Gold, Special
Drawing Rights (SDRs) and RBI’s Reserve position with International Monetary Fund (IMF). FCAs
constitute largest component of Indian Forex Reserves.

Key Facts
As on 29 December 2017, FCAs which form key component of reserves, rose by $4.42 billion from the
previous week to $385.103 billion. FCAs are maintained in major currencies like euro, US dollar,
pound sterling, Japanese yen etc. Movement in FCA occur mainly on account of purchase and sale of
foreign exchange by RBI, income arising out of deployment of Forex reserves, external aid receipts of
government and revaluation of assets.
During this period, Gold reserves remained stable at $20.716 billion. Special drawing rights (SDR)
from IMD rose by $8.9 million from the previous week to $1.511 billion. SDR is an international
reserve asset created by IMF and allocated to its members in proportion of their quota at IMF. The
Reserve Position in the IMF rose by $12.1 million to $2.035 billion.
HRD Ministry releases All India Higher Education Survey
January 6, 2018
The Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER) in higher education of Indian has registered an increase from
24.5% in 2015-16 to 25.2% in 2016-17 according to latest All India Higher Education Survey (AIHES)
released by HRD Ministry.
The survey findings were based on responses of 795 universities, 34,193 colleges and 7,496
standalone institutions. There are total of 864 universities, 40,026 colleges and 11,669 standalone
institutions in the country.
Key Highlights of AIHES
Gross Enrolment Ratio (GER): GER is statistical measure for determining number of students
enrolled in undergraduate, postgraduate and research-level studies within country and expressed as
a percentage of population. India is aiming to attain GER of 30% by 2020, but it is still far behind
countries like China with GER of 43.39% and US with 85.8%.
The proportion of students pursuing higher education in India hasn’t increased dramatically from
2015-16 to 2016-17. It was in range of 23% to 25% since 2013-14. Tamil Nadu has highest GER in India
at 46.9%.
Six states have registered GER higher than national average (25.2%), with their share of students
entering higher education is growing twice as fast as overall rate. These states are Tamil Nadu
(46.9%), Himachal Pradesh (36.7%), Kerala (34.2%), Andhra Pradesh (32.4%), Haryana (29%) and Punjab
(28.6%).
However, eight states UP (24.9%), Madhya Pradesh (20%), Odisha (21%), Bihar (14.4%), Gujarat (20.2%),
Rajasthan (20.5%), Mizoram (24.5%) and West Bengal (18.5%) had GER ratio far less than the national
average. Bihar has lowest GER with just 14.4% of its eligible population (in age group of 18 to 23 years)
pursuing higher education.
Gender Parity Index (GPI): India registered its best performance on the GPI in last seven years —
0.94 in 2016-17 from 0.86 in 2010-11. GPI is calculated as quotient of number of females by number of
males enrolled. GPI equal to 1 indicates 1, value less than 1 indicated disparity in favour of males. In
Seven states — Goa, Himachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, J&K, Nagaland, Sikkim and Kerala — women in
higher education have outnumbered men.
College density: States in south India have higher college density. It is defined as number of colleges
per lakh eligible population. The college density in top three states/UTs is Puducherry (49),
Telangana (59) and Karnataka (53). Bihar (7 colleges/1lakh population), Jharkhand (8) and West Bengal
(11) on the other hand, are at the bottom interms college density.
Number of foreign students: There hasn’t been much improvement in the internationalisation of
education in the country. There is marginal improvement in number of foreign students —47,575 in
2016-17 from 45,424 in 2015-16— with 31,779 men and 15,796 women. The highest share comes from
the neighbouring countries of Nepal (23.6%), Afghanistan (9.3%) and Bhutan (4.8%).
January 7-8, 2018
75th Annual Golden Globe Awards
January 8, 2018
The 75th Annual Golden Globe Awards honored the best in film and American television of 2017. The
ceremony was organized at Beverly Hills, California, United States (US). The Golden Globe Awards
are the annual awards that honour the best in Motion Pictures and American Television for the

previous year.
This year The Shape of Water had received most overall nominations of show with seven, while
Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri and Big Little Lies both won most awards with four each.
Winners of various awards are as follows:
Best Motion Picture Drama: Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri.
Best Motion Picture Musical/Comedy: Lady Bird.
Best Director in Motion Picture-Drama: Guillermo del Toro (The Shape of Water).
Best Actor in Motion Picture-Drama: Gary Oldman (Darkest Hour) as Winston Churchill.
Best Actress in Motion Picture-Drama: Frances McDormand (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing,
Missouri) as Mildred Hayes.
Best Actor in Motion Picture or Musical or Comedy: James Franco (The Disaster Artist) as Tommy
Wiseau.
Best Actress in Motion Picture Musical/Comedy: Saoirse Ronan (Lady Bird) as Christine “Lady Bird”
McPherson.
Best Actor in a Supporting role in Motion Picture: Sam Rockwell (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing,
Missouri) as Officer Jason Dixon.
Best Actress in a Supporting role in Motion Picture: Allison Janney (I, Tonya) as LaVona Golden.
Best Original Score Motion Picture: Alexandre Desplat (The Shape of Water).
Best Original Song: “This Is Me” (Benj Pasek and Justin Paul) – The Greatest Showman
Best Animated Feature Film: Coco.
Best Foreign Language Film: In the Fade (Germany/France).
Cecil B. DeMille Lifetime Achievement Award: Oprah Winfrey.
Legendary astronaut, moonwalker John Young passes away
January 8, 2018
Legendary astronaut of NASA John Young, who walked on the moon and later commanded the first
space shuttle flight passed away in Houston, US. He was 87.
He was NASA’s only astronaut to go into space as part of Gemini, Apollo and space shuttle program,
and the first to fly into space six times. He was 9th man to walk on moon.
John Young
He was born in San Francisco, California. He had earned degree in aeronautical engineering from
Georgia Tech. Later he had joined US Navy. Later he took flight training. His first time in space came
in 1965 with Gemini 3 mission that took him and astronaut Gus Grissom into Earth orbit in first two-
man US space jaunt.
His NASA career spanned over 42 years, longer than any other astronaut’s. In 1965, he had flown the
first manned Gemini mission and commanded another in 1966. In 1969, he became first person to
orbit Moon alone for Apollo 10.
He also had driven Lunar Roving Vehicle on Moon’s surface during Apollo 16. He is one of only three
people to have flown to the Moon twice. He also commanded two Space Shuttle flights, including its
first launch in 1981, and served as Chief of Astronaut Office from 1974–1987. He retired from NASA in
2004.
Flamingo festival held at Pulicat lake in Andhra Pradesh
January 8, 2018
The three-day annual Flamingo Festival was held at Pulicat lake and Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary in
Sullurpet mandal. Flamingo Festival is held every year to promote tourism in Pulicat and Nellapattu.
Key Facts
Flamingo Festival is being organised for the past 12 years. Migratory birds from Siberia have visit
this place during winter season for breeding. Somewhere between 9,000 to 12,000 migratory birds
arrive at Pulicat region for breeding this season.
Usually around 80 different avian species migrate to Pulicat for breeding. They hunt in shallow
waters of lake and breed there. Once the breeding season concludes, they fly away to their native
land with their offspring in tow.
Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary
Nelapattu Bird Sanctuary is one of the biggest habitats for some hundreds of pelicans and other

birds. It is located about 20 km north of the Pulicat Lake on the Andhra Pradesh-Tamil Nadu border.
This sanctuary spread in an area about 459 hectares and plays important role in nesting of various
birds especially migratory birds. Every year during winter season from October to March, different
species of migratory birds, roosting migrants and some rare and endangered species from various
parts of the world visit the habitat.
Pulicat lake
Pulicat Lake is the second largest brackish water lake or lagoon in India after Chilika Lake. It is
located on border of Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu with over 96% of it in Andhra Pradesh and 4%
in Tamil Nadu situated on Coromandal Coast in South India. The lake encompasses Pulicat Lake Bird
Sanctuary. The barrier island of Sriharikota separates the lake from the Bay of Bengal and is home to
Satish Dhawan Space Centre. Arani and Kalangi are two rivers which feed the lagoon. The
Buckingham Canal, a navigation channel, is part of the lagoon on its western side.
CBDT relaxes norms for MAT on firms facing insolvency
January 8, 2018
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has announced to relax norms around levy of minimum
alternate tax (MAT) for insolvent companies from financial year 2017-18.
The purpose of the move is to make the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 more effective and
minimise hardship faced by companies going in for insolvency resolution.
Minimum alternate tax (MAT)
Its aim is to bring Zero Tax Companies” into tax realm who do not pay any tax. It is ruled by
provisions enclosed in section 115JB of Income Tax Act, 1961. MAT is valid to all companies
comprising foreign companies. As per meaning of MAT, tax obligation of company will be higher if
income tax of company calculated as per normal provision of income tax and tax calculated at 18.5%
on book profit plus surcharge and cess as applicable.
Key Facts
This exemption facility will be available only for companies against whom application for corporate
insolvency resolution process has been admitted by the adjudicating authority. An amendment to
this effect will be made in section 115 JB of the Income Tax Act.
According to existing provisions for purposes of levy of MAT company, amount of loss brought
forward or unabsorbed depreciation, whichever is less as per books of account shall be reduced from
book profit. The relation of norms will allow company to reduce amount of total loss brought forward
including unabsorbed depreciation from the book profit for the purposes of levy of MAR.
Background
This decision was taken based on suggestions of various stakeholders suggesting hardship faced by
companies against whom application for corporate insolvency resolution process was admitted by
Adjudicating Authority due to restriction in allowance of brought forward loss for computation of
book profit. The Indian Banks Association (IBA) also had sought removal of MAT for new investors
apprehending depressed bids.
Government to launch e-Sansad and e-Vidhan in Parliament and State
January 8, 2018
The Union Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA) has proposed rolling out of e-Sansad in
Parliament and e-Vidhan in State Legislatures to digitize and make their functioning paperless.
It was announced by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ananth Kumar after inaugurating 18th All India
Whips’ Conference in Udaipur, Rajasthan.
e-Sansad and e-Vidhan
They are mission mode projects of Union Government under Digital India to make the functioning of
Parliament and State Legislatures paperless. They aim to digitise and make available Parliament and
state legislature documents, including debates, speeches, committee reports and questions on
internet.
MoPA is the Nodal Ministry for implementation of both the projects. These projects will make
functioning of Parliament and State Legislatures participative, responsive, transparent, productive
and more accountable to public. They will make the entire Legislative process more efficient. They
are environment-friendly initiatives in line with the Go Green initiative of the government.

18th All India Whips’ Conference
The two-day conference was organised by Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs (MoPA) focused on the
efficient functioning of legislatures. Delegates participating in made suggestions and
recommendations for making the rolling out of e-Vidhan a success. It also made other
recommendations for smooth and efficient working of Parliament and the state legislatures in the
light of the experience gained by the whips.
Whip
A whip is a member of political party’s parliamentary body responsible for discipline within the
party. Their main job is ensuring that their members in Parliament and legislature vote in line with
the party’s official policy on important issues. The office of whip is neither mentioned in constitution of
India nor in the Rules of the House nor in the Parliamentary Statue. It is based on conventions of
parliamentary government.
AIIB plans to issue first US dollar bonds in June 2018
January 8, 2018
China-led Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) is planning to issue its first US dollar-
denominated bond with minimum worth of $1 billion by June 2018.
The earliest issuance window of bond will be toward end of first half of 2018 with time required for
certain procedures, including Board of Governors’ approval of AIIB’s 2017 financial statements as
well as borrowing and swap documentation.
Key Facts
The minimum size of the issuance will be one billion dollars, but as demand for the first bond issue
may increase AIIB anticipates of having to issue a larger size.
The maturity of the bond will be between three and five years depending on investor demand at the
time. he bank plans to cap its total borrowing volume at US $3 billion dollars in 2018.
The AIIB has received three top-notch ratings from global credit rating agencies S&P Global Ratings,
Moody’s and Fitch in recognition of the bank’s strong capital base and stable outlook.
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
AIIB is a multilateral development bank initiated by China. Its purpose is to provide finance to
infrastructure development and regional connectivity projects in the Asia-Pacific region. Its goals are
to boost economic development in Asia-Pacific region, provide infrastructure, and promote regional
cooperation and partnership.
It prioritises investment in energy, power generation, transport, rural infrastructure, environmental
protection and logistics in Asia. It was officially established in December 2015 and opened for
business in January 2016. It is headquartered in Beijing. It has an authorised capital of US $100
billion. So far it has 84 members including India.
China is the largest shareholder of AIIB with 26.06% voting shares. India is the second largest
shareholder with 7.5% followed by Russia 5.93% and Germany with 4.5%.
Vulnerable Odisha tribe Mankidia denied habitat in Similipal
January 8, 2018
Mankidia tribe in Odisha as denied habitat rights inside core area of Similipal Tiger Reserve (STR) in
Odisha under historic Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest
Rights) Act, 2006. State Forest Department had objected their habitat rights on grounds that tribals
could be attacked by wild animals, especially tigers.
Mankidia is one of the 13 Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) and is a marginalised group
that critically depends on making rope with siali fibre that’s richly available in Similipal.
Habitat rights
‘Habitat’ under Section 2(h) of the FRA (Forest Rights Act) is defined as area comprising customary
habitat and such other habitats in reserved forests and protected forests of primitive tribal groups
and pre-agricultural communities and other forest dwelling Scheduled Tribes.
Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs)
PVTGs are more vulnerable among the tribal groups. In 1975, Central Government had initiated
initiative to identify the most vulnerable tribal groups as a separate category called PVTGs and
declared 52 such groups. In 1993, additional 23 groups were added to category, making it total of 75
PVTGs out of 705 Scheduled Tribes, spread over 17 states and 1 UT in the country (2011 census).

Among 75 listed PVTG’s the highest number are found in Odisha (13), followed by Andhra Pradesh
(12).
They are identified by Union Government according to procedure in which state governments or UT
governments submit proposals to Union Ministry of Tribal Welfare for identification of PVTGs. After
ensuring the criteria is fulfilled, the Tribal Ministry Ministry selects those groups as PVTGs.
Simlipal National park
Simlipal National Park is national park and a tiger reserve in Mayurbhanj district of Odisha. It is part
of Similipal-Kuldiha-Hadgarh Elephant Reserve popularly known as Mayurbhanj Elephant Reserve.
Simlipal National Park derives its name from the abundance of semul (red silk cotton trees) that
bloom here. It was the second largest national park in India. Its reserve is part of UNESCO World
Network of Biosphere Reserves since 2009.
The park has protected area of 845.70 square kilometres and has some beautiful waterfalls like
Joranda and Barehipani. It is home to 99 royal Bengal tigers and 432 wild elephants. Besides it is
famous for gaurs (Indian bison), chausingha as well as an orchidarium.
Pratyush: India’s fastest supercomputer unveiled
January 8, 2018
India’s fastest and first multi-petaflops (PF) supercomputer named Pratyush was unveiled at Pune-
based Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). The supercomputer has been named as
‘Pratyush’ meaning Sun.
It will help India with better forecasts in terms of monsoon, extreme events, cyclones, tsunamis,
earthquakes, air quality, lightning, fishing, hot and cold waves, flood and drought among others.
Key Facts
Supercomputer Pratyush will be national facility for improving weather and climate forecasts and
services under umbrella of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES). Pratyush has 6.8 PF computational
power installed at two MoES Institutes. 4.0 Peta Flops HPC facility at IITM, Pune and 2.8 Peta Flops
facility at NCMRWF, Noida. (PF is a measure of a computer’s processing speed).
Pratyush is fourth fastest supercomputer in world dedicated for weather and climate research. It
follows supercomputing machines in Japan, US and United Kingdom. It will improve rankings of
Indian supercomputer from 300s to 30s in Top500 list, a respected international tracker of the
world’s fastest supercomputers.
The key function of the High Performance Computing (HPC) facility will be monsoon forecasting
using dynamical model which requires simulating weather for given month and letting custom-built
model calculate impact of actual weather over coming months. It will enable to map regions in India
at resolution of 3 km and globe at 12 km.
January 9, 2018
Haryana becomes first state to launch High-Risk Pregnancy portal
January 9, 2018
Haryana become first state in the country to launch High-Risk Pregnancy (HRP) portal. It has been
launched as part of the High Risk Pregnancy Policy of state implemented since November 2017.
The policy aims at identifying 100% name-based high-risk pregnancy cases and ensuring their
delivery by specialists at civil hospitals.

Key Facts
The portal will help in early identification of high-risk pregnant cases up to grass-roots level and
ensures their timely referral to civil hospitals for further management and delivery by specialists.
It will help in increasing pace of decline in Maternal Mortality Rate (MMR), Infant Mortality Rate
(IMR) and Still Birth Incidence as morbidity and mortality is quite high in high risk pregnant cases if
not managed timely.
It will track every high risk pregnant woman till 42 days after delivery, so that she receives adequate
treatment during the ante-natal period for healthy outcome of pregnancy. State Government has
issued instructions to all civil surgeons for 100% entry of high risk pregnant cases in HRP Portal and
their management at Civil Hospitals by specialists.
SpaceX launches secretive Zuma mission
January 9, 2018
California-based Private spaceflight company SpaceX has launched secret Zuma Mission for US
government. It was launched on board of SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from the Cape Canaveral Air Force
Station in Florida, US.
Zuma Mission
It is a secret mission in its nature or purpose and the agency behind it remains a mystery. It has been
manufactured by Northrup Grumman, Virginia-based aerospace and defence company. It was
delivered to low-Earth orbit (LEO).
SpaceX
SpaceX (Space Exploration Technologies Corporation) is aerospace manufacturer and space
transport services company headquartered in California, US. It was founded in 2002 by Internet
tycoon Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla Motors and former PayPal entrepreneur with the goal of creating
the technologies to reduce space transportation costs and enable colonization of Mars.
SpaceX has developed the Falcon 1 and Falcon 9 launch vehicles, both designed to be reusable, thus
reducing the cost of lauch. It also has developed Dragon spacecraft to supply cargo to ISS. It is also
developing manned version of Dragon.
In 2008, SpaceX had created history by launching first privately funded, liquid-propellant rocket
Falcon 1 to reach orbit in 2008. It also became first privately funded company to successfully launch,
orbit and recover spacecraft (Dragon) in 2010. It was also first private company to send a spacecraft
to ISS, in 2012.
Government notifies the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2017
January 9, 2018
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has notified the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2017. The
Amendment Act amended some provisions of Companies Act, 2013.
Few provisions in the Amendment Act have important bearing on the working of the Insolvency and
Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016. They will come into force on date as Government notify in Official
Gazette. It aims to help in simplifying procedures, make compliance easy and take stringent action
against defaulting companies.
Key Facts
Issuance of shares at a discount: It was prohibited by Section 53 of the Act. The Amendment Act
allows companies to issue shares at discount to its creditors when its debt is converted into shares in
pursuance of any statutory resolution plan such as resolution plan under IBC or debt restructuring
scheme.
Payment of managerial remuneration in excess: It was required for company in general meeting for
payment of managerial remuneration in excess of 11% of net profits as per Section 197 of parent Act.
The Amendment Act now requires company which has defaulted in payment of dues, prior approval
of bank or public financial institution concerned or non-convertible debenture holders or other
secured creditor. For such payment of managerial remuneration shall be obtained by company before
obtaining approval in general meeting.
Prohibition of registered valuer from undertaking valuation of any assets: Section 247 of
Companies Act, 2013 them of any assets in which they have direct or indirect interest or becomes so
interested at any time during or after valuation of assets. The Amendment Act now prohibits
registered valuer to be appointment as valuer or three years after valuation of assets was conducted

by him.
Saudi Arabia allows India’s plan to ferry Haj pilgrims via sea route
January 9, 2018
Saudi Arabia has approved India’s plan to revive the option of ferrying Haj pilgrims via sea route to
Jeddah. In this regard, both countries have signed bilateral annual Haj 2018 agreement.
The agreement was signed by Union Minister for Minority Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi and Haj and
Umrah Minister of Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammad Saleh bin TaherBenten at Makkah.
Key Facts
The practice of ferrying Haj pilgrims between Mumbai and Jeddah by waterways was stopped in
1995. Sending pilgrims through through sea route will help cut down travel expenses significantly. It
will be a revolutionary, pro-poor, pilgrim-friendly decision.
Moreover, ships now available are more modern and well-equipped to ferry 4000 to 5000 persons at
time. They can cover 2300-odd nautical miles one-side distance between Mumbai and Jeddah within
just 3-4 days. Earlier, old ships used to take 12 to 15 days.
India and Saudi Arabia share ideals of global peace, progress and prosperity. Haj pilgrimage is one of
strongest pillars of India-Saudi Arabia ties. Till now, around 3 lakh 59 thousand application have been
received for Haj 2018.
Recently, Union Government for first time had notified that Indian Muslim Women can now go to
Haj without male companion (Mehram). Separate accommodation and transport facilities will be
arranged for these women pilgrims in Saudi Arabia and women Haj assistant will be deployed for
them.
Government completes 1st phase of BharatNet project
January 9, 2018
The Union Government has announced completion of first phase of BharatNet project after
successfully laying optical fibre cables (OFC) in more than 1 lakh gram panchayats. As of December
2017, 2,54,895 km of OFC has were laid covering 1,09,926 GPs out of which 1,01,370 GPs have been
made service ready.
The second phase of the project was initiated in November 2017 for connecting the remaining 1.5
lakh gram panchayats. Government is expecting to preempt second phase’s original target of March
2019 by concluding it ahead of schedule by December 2018.
BharatNet project
BharatNet project forms backbone for Digital India initiative. It aims to bring high speed broadband
to all 2.5 lakh gram panchayats (GPs) through optical fibre. The project was approved by Union
Cabinet in 2011 as National Optical Fibre Netwok.
The objective flagship project is to provide affordable broadband services in rural and remote areas
in partnership with states and the private sector. It being is implemented by Bharat Broadband
Network Limited (BBNL). It is world’s largest rural broadband connectivity programme using Optical
fibre.
Bharat Net seeks to connect all of India’s households, particularly rural areas, through demand,
affordable high-speed broadband connectivity of 2 Mbps to 20 Mbps to realise the vision of Digital
India. The project is being funded by Universal service Obligation Fund (USOF).
On completion, the project is expected to catalyse digital delivery of services for rural poor in crucial
areas like health, education, livelihood, skills, e-agriculture and e-commerce. Moreover, it will
generate massive employment opportunities, both direct and indirect in the country. The digital
infrastructure
Government to raise Territorial Army battalion of ex-Armymen to clean Ganga
January 9, 2018
The Union Defence Ministry has sanctioned raising of Territorial Army (TA) battalion comprising ex-
servicemen of Indian Army as part of its mission to clean the Ganga by 2020. It has been named as
Composite Ecological Task Force (CETF) battalion of TA for National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG),
the nodal agency for cleaning Ganga.
Key Facts
The CETF battalion will be raised in Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh as a pilot project. For this government
has allocated Rs 167 crore under NMCG. The battalion will work on book debit system with funding

provided from budget of Union Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga
Rejuvenation.
The CETF TA battalion will be commanded by Colonel-rank officer. It will have 8 officers, 20 JCOs
and around 500 other ranks on its roll. For the task, it will only enroll ex-servicemen, who will be
embodied under TA rules.
Functions of CETF TA
It will be responsible for monitoring ecological and environmental projects related to Ganga River,
and also raise public awareness through campaigns. It will also patrol sensitive river areas for the
protection of biodiversity, keep a tab on the river pollution levels, plant trees and check soil erosion.
It will also assist government in enforcing pollution control measures, support local civil
administration and police in managing the ghats, and provide support and assistance if and when
there is flood or natural disaster in region.
Background
Territorial Army which comes under Defence Ministry is considered a second line of defence after
the regular Army. So far 9 Ecological Task Force (ETF) battalions of TA have been raised to execute
specific environment-related projects.
The proposal for raising CETF TA battalion had emanated from Department of Ex-servicemen
Welfare in Defence Ministry, which took up case in 2014 for cleaning Ganga. The proposal was vetted
and approved by Defence ministry and was forwarded to NMCG. After an approval from NMCG in
2017, the Defence Ministry concurred and issued a Government Sanction Letter in December 2017.
Government to launch new scheme for free treatment of Hepatitis C
January 9, 2018
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare is going to roll out National Programme for Control
of Viral Hepatitis , a new scheme free treatment of Hepatitis C from the 2018-19 financial year.
Under the new scheme, the focus will be on anti-viral treatment of Hepatitis C which will be provided
free at all government health set-ups. For this government has embarked budget of Rs 600 crore for
the next three years.
Key Facts
The Health Ministry is looking at screening vulnerable groups, including drug users and people who
underwent surgeries/ blood transfusion before 2002, when the screening protocol was not robust.
Moreover it is in informal talks with Indian companies which manufacture Sofosbuvir on behalf of
American pharma giant Gilead, to negotiate the price for a national programme. Sofosbuvir is
recommended under the new WHO treatment guidelines for Hepatitis C.
Hepatitis C
Hepatitis C is infectious disease caused by blood-borne virus hepatitis C virus (HCV) that primarily
affects the liver. Significant number of people infected with Hepatitis C develop cirrhosis of liver or
liver cancer, which are responsible for 3,99,000 Hepatitis C deaths annually across the world. About
1.2 crore people in India are reported to be suffering from Hepatitis C— six times the number of
HIV/AIDS patients.
Hepatitis C can spread through use of injectable drugs, unsafe health care, unsafe injection practises
and transfusion of unscreened blood and blood products. However, unlike Hepatitis B, it is not
sexually transmitted. There is no known vaccine for Hepatitis C.
January 9: Pravasi Bharatiya Divas
January 9, 2018
The Pravasi Bharatiya Divas (PBD) is celebrated every year on January 9 to mark the contribution of
Overseas Indian community in the development of India.
This year’s PBD celebrated ASEAN-Indian partnership and was themed Ancient Route, New Journey:
Diaspora in the Dynamic ASEAN INDIA Partnership. This year marks 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 PBD was held in Singapore on 6 and 7th January 2017– which is considered as India’s gateway to
the East and also is the heart of ASEAN. The event aimed at generating outcomes that deepen
diaspora’s relations with India and play a key role in promoting closer ties between India and ASEAN.

Background
The day celebrated every year since 2003. It was chosen to commemorate the return of Mahatma
Gandhi from South Africa to India in 1915. This event marks the importance of arrival of India’s
greatest Pravasi who led India’s freedom struggle and changed the lives of Indians forever.
Observance of the day provides platform to overseas Indian community to engage with government
and people of land of their ancestors for mutually beneficial activities.
Supreme Court stays High Court verdict against 85% pictorial warning on tobacco
January 9, 2018
The Supreme Court has stayed Karnataka High Court order reducing size of pictorial warnings on
packages of tobacco products to 40% of the package space from earlier 85%. The apex court took
decision saying that health of citizen has primacy and emphasised on importance of public health
and harmful effects of tobacco products.
Background
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW) in 2014 had amended Cigarette and
other Tobacco Products (Packaging and Labelling) Rules prescribing mandatory 85% statutory
warnings space on both sides of tobacco packaging telling consumers that cigarette smoking and
tobacco chewing were harmful to health. These rules were framed under Cigarette and Other
Tobacco Products (Prohibition of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce,
Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003.
Karnataka High Court judgment
In December 2017, Karnataka High Court judgment had quashed MoHFW rules that mandated
pictorial health warnings to cover 85% of tobacco product packaging space, holding that they
violated Constitutional norms. However, it made it clear that 40% pictorial health warning rule,
which existed prior to amendment rules, will remain in force.
It had held that rules framed by MoHW in 2014 was violation of the Article 77 (Conduct of Business of
Government of India) and Transaction of Business (ToB) rules framed under it as subject of tobacco
control and legislation was not attached to one department or Ministry. Moreover, these rules are
also contrary to Article 19(1)(g) (right to practise any profession,or to carry on any occupation, trade
or business).
First PIO Parliamentary Conference held in New Delhi
January 10, 2018
The first-ever Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) Parliamentary Conference was held in the Pravasi
Bharatiya Kendra (PBK) in New Delhi on the occasion of Pravasi Bhartiya Diwas (PBD). It was
inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The conference was way of reaching out to Indian
community overseas by Central government.
Key Facts
The PIO Parliamentary Conference was organised by Ministry of External Affairs to forge stronger
ties with PIO. 124 Members of Parliament (MP) and 17 mayors from 23 countries including UK, USA,
South Africa, Canada, Fiji, Kenya, Mauritius, New Zealand, Sri Lanka among others participated in
this conference.
The biggest delegation was frim Guyana with 20 members of parliament and three mayors. The US
delegation will be represented by only two mayors as the Senate is in session
The event had two Thematic Plenary Sessions – ‘PIO Parliamentarians: A Journey from Struggle to
Parliament’ and ‘Resurgent India: Role of PIO Parliamentarians’.
Persons of Indian Origin (PIO)
A person is deemed to be Indian origin if he/she is foreign citizen (other than of Pakistan or
Bangladesh) and had held an Indian passport any time. He may be either person whose parents or
grandparents were citizens of India by virtue of the Constitution of India or the Citizenship Act, 1955.
He may be also person who is spouse of an Indian citizen or of PIO (other than of Pakistan or
Bangladesh).
January 10, 2018
Scientists for first time grow skeletal muscle tissue from stem cells
January 10, 2018
Scientists from Duke University in North Carolina, US for first time have developed working human

skeletal muscle from stem cells in the laboratory.
Stem cells
Stem cells are undifferentiated biological cells that can differentiate into specialized cells and can
divide to produce more stem cells. They are found in multicellular organisms. In mammals, there are
two broad types of stem cells: embryonic stem cells and adult stem cells. Embryonic stem cells can
be isolated from the inner cell mass of blastocysts and adult stem cells are found in various tissues
which can act as a repair system for the body, replenishing adult tissues.
Key Facts
Scientists had developed human skeletal muscle using adult skin or blood cells that were
reprogrammed into a juvenile, versatile state. These cells were induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)
which can become any other type of human cell like naturally-occurring stem cells found in embryos.
In this case, the iPSCs were coaxed into becoming skeletal muscle cells. The breakthrough was made
possible by unique cell culture conditions in lab and special 3-D scaffold which allowed cells to grow
much faster and longer.
The tissue contracted and reacted to external stimuli such as electrical pulses or chemical signals. It
was also implanted into adult mice, where it survived and functioned for at least three weeks.
Significance
The development is breakthrough that holds promise for sufferers of degenerative muscular
diseases. This technique will allow scientists to grow endless amount of functioning muscle in lab to
test to test drugs and gene treatments for degenerative diseases.
National anthem not mandatory in cinema halls: SC
January 10, 2018
The Supreme Court has ruled that playing national anthem before screening movies in cinema halls
is optional and not mandatory. The ruling modifies apex court’s earlier November 2016 order that
made the playing of national anthem in cinemas mandatory.
SC Ruling
The apex court has accepted Union Government’s affidavit that said 12-member inter-ministerial
committee has been set up to suggest changes in Prevention of Insults to National Honour Act, 1971. It
also asked committee to take a comprehensive decision on what changes are required in the law and
itss executive orders related to national anthem. It held that the inter-ministerial committee will
now take a final call on the matter.
Inter-Ministerial Committee on National Anthem in Cinema Halls
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had constituted inter-ministerial committee to frame
guidelines on playing national anthem in cinemas and other public places. It is headed by BR
Sharma, Additional Secretary (Border Management) under Union Ministry of Home Affairs and has
representatives from various ministries.
The committee is mandated to frame guidelines describing circumstances and occasion on which
national anthem is to be played or sung. It will recommend observance of proper decorum when
national anthem is played or sung. It will submit its report within six months.
Background
In November 2016, SC had ordered all cinemas to play the National Anthem before screening a film
for the love of the motherland. The MHA’s decision to constitute the committee came after another
bench of SC in October 2017 had observed that people “cannot be forced to carry patriotism on their
sleeves. It stated that apex court cannot assume that a person is “less patriotic” if he or she does not
stand up for the national anthem.
3rd Meeting of Council of Trade Development and Promotion held in New Delhi
January 10, 2018
The third meeting of Council of Trade Development and Promotion (CTDP) was held in New Delhi. It
was chaired by Union Minister for Commerce & Industry Suresh Prabhu and was attended by CM of
Goa, Deputy Chief Minister of Gujarat, ministers from 11 states, senior state government officials and
industry bodies.
The objective of the meeting was to enhance the Centre’s cooperation with the states and union
territories in making the latter active partners in boosting India’s exports.

Council for Trade Development and Promotion (CTDP)
CTDP was constituted in July, 2015 to ensure a continuous dialogue with State Governments/UTs on
measures for providing International trade enabling environment in States. The council was
constituted to promote India’s overseas shipments. It acts as platform to develop partnership with
states with aim to boost international trade. It also seeks to create a framework for making states
active partners in boosting India’s exports.
Composition
The Union Commerce and Industry Minister is Chairperson of CTDP. Ministers’ in-charge of Trade
and Commerce in State Governments/UTs are its members. Besides 14 secretaries of central
government, including commerce, revenue, shipping, civil aviation, agriculture, food processing and
economic affairs are also its members.
Mandate of CTDP
Provide platform to State Governments/UTs for articulating their perspectives on trade policy.
Help State Governments/UTs develop and pursue export strategies in line with national Foreign Trade Policy
Provide platform for deliberation on need for infrastructure relevant for promoting trade and for identification of
impediments and infrastructure gaps which adversely affect India’s export.
Provide platform to Union Government for apprising State Governments/UTs about international development
affecting India’s trade potential and opportunities and prepare them to deal with evolving situation.
Facilitate mechanism for discussion on operationalization of trade infrastructure.
Gujarat tops in Logistics Ease Across Different States index
January 10, 2018
Gujarat has topped among 22 states in the Logistics Ease Across Different States (LEADS) index
released by Union Ministry of Commerce & Industry.
It was released by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry Suresh Prabhu after the third meeting of
the Council for Trade Development and Promotion in New Delhi.
Rankings in LEADS index
Punjab has acquired second position followed by Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra.
Among the Union Territories, Daman & Diu occupied top slot followed by NCT Delhi and
Chandigarh. As regards the hilly states, Tripura was on top followed by Mizoram and Meghalaya.
LEADS index
The LEADs index is a composite indicator to assess international trade logistics across States/UTs
based on stakeholders’ survey conducted by Deloitte for Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It is
calculated based on eight parameters such as infrastructure, services, timeliness, track and trace,
competitiveness of pricing, safety of cargo, operating environment and regulatory process.
LEADS is loosely based on World Bank’s biannual Logistics Performance Index (LPI) on which India
was ranked 35 among 160 countries in 2016, up from 54 in 2014. It aims to serve as an indicator of
efficiency of logistical services necessary for promoting exports in particular and economic growth
in general.

CCEA approves continuation of Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme

January 10, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given its approval to continuation of
Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) till term of 14th Finance
Commission i.e. 2020.
The continuation of scheme will entail annual allocation of Rs.3,950 crore and total outlay of Rs.
11,850 crores over next 3 years.
MPLAD Scheme
The MPLAD Scheme is Central Sector Scheme launched in 1993-94. It enables Members of Parliament
(both elected and nominated) to recommend works for creation of durable community assets based
on locally felt needs to be taken up in their constituencies in area of national priorities like drinking
water, education, public health, sanitation, roads etc.
The Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MSPI) is nodal ministry to coordinate
work under scheme. The scheme is governed by set of guidelines (last revised in June, 2016). Under
this scheme, the funds are released in the form of grants in-aid directly to the district authorities on
receipt of requisite documents and as per these guidelines.
The funds released under the scheme are non-lapsable i.e. if the fund for particular work is not spent
in that year, it will be carried forward to the subsequent years, subject to eligibility.
The annual entitlement under the scheme per MP at present is Rs 5 crore. Role of MPs for the
projects is only recommendatory i.e. they can only recommend their choice of works to concerned
district authorities who implement these works by following the established procedures of the
concerned state government.
Impact
Since its inception of the scheme, a total number of 18,82,180 works for Rs. 44,929.17 crore have been
sanctioned till August, 2017 from MPLADS fund. It has resulted into creation of various durable
community assets which have impacted the social, cultural and economic life of the local
communities in one way or the other.
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Canada for cooperation in field of S&T
January 10, 2018
The Union Cabinet approved Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Canada for cooperation in
field of Science & Technology. The MoU was concluded by Department of Science and Technology
(DST) with Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) of Canada.
Salient features
The MoU will provide mechanism and help to foster scientific cooperation between Research &
Development (R&D) and academic institutions of India and Canada. Under it, an innovative model of
R&D cooperation between India and Canada will be implemented.
Under this MoU, India-Canada Centre for Innovative Multidisciplinary Partnership to Accelerate
Community Transformation and Sustainability (IC-IMPACTS) programme will be supported to
promote multidisciplinary research partnerships between both countries.
The R&D projects will be aimed at accelerating social transformation by providing solutions through
application of S&T. The participants will include researchers from scientific organizations, academia
and R&D laboratories from India and Canada.
Identified areas of mutual cooperation under the MoU include safe and sustainable infrastructure
and integrated water management. This will help to develop institutional networking and support
establishment of connections between scientific organizations, scientists and specialists of both
countries.
Rocket expert K. Sivan appointed as new chairman of ISRO
January 10, 2018
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed rocket scientist K. Sivan as next
Secretary of the Department of Space and Chairman of Space Commission and Indian Space
Research Organisation (ISRO). He will succeed A.S. Kiran Kumar and will have term of three years.
K. Sivan
He is a graduate in aeronautical engineering from Institute of Technology (Madras), ME from Indian
Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru. He had earned doctorate in aerospace engineering from IIT

Bombay. He had joined ISRO in 1982 in then young PSLV project and has been project director of the
GSLV rocket. Currently he is Director of the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) and was
appointed in June 2015.
He also had played key role in developing indigenous Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle
(GSLV) MK II and was part of team that ideated on Swadeshi space shuttle (a reusable launch vehicle).
It was Mr Sivan’s expertise that gave ISRO the ability to send 104 satellites in a single mission,
setting a world record in February last year. He was the key person who worked on the technicalities
of how the satellites would be placed in orbit.
It was his expertise that gave ISRO ability to send 104 satellites in single mission and sett world
record in February 2017. He was key person who worked on technicalities of how the satellites would
be placed in orbit.
January 11, 2018
Corps of Army Air Defence celebrates 25th Raising Day
January 11, 2018
On January 10, 2018, the Corps of Army Air Defence celebrated its 25th raising day. Corps of Army Air
Defence is one of the active corps of Indian army tasked with protection of Indian air spaces from
enemy aircrafts and missiles, specially below 5000 feet.
Key Facts
The Corps of Army Air Defence was first raised during British era in 1939 and it took active
participation in the Second World War. However, since January 10, 1994, it is exercising autonomous
status.
Since then, it has grown in stature and proved its mettle in almost all major conflicts.
The crest of Corps of Army Air Defence portrays a missile in silver tint, with radar antennae in gold
colour fixed on the either side. Its motto “आकाशे शत्रुन् जहि ” (Kill The Enemy in Sky) has
been imprinted on its crest and flag. The current Director General of Corps of Army Air Defence is Lt.
Gen. A K Sahgal.
The personnel of Air Defence Corps are trained at Army Air Defence College (AADC) at Gopalpur
cantonment, Odisha.
Mumbai’s Matunga Railway Station enters Limca Records for All Woman Staff
January 11, 2018
Mumbai’s Matunga station on Central Railway (CR) has entered the Limca Book of Records as first
all-women station in India. The station has total staff of 41 women.
The unique initiative to employ all woman staff was undertaken by CR General Manager DK Sharma
in July 2017 with aim of empowering women. It also aims to create an environment for women where
they can make all decisions of their own for their personal and professional well-being, organisation
good notwithstanding.
Key Facts
Women staffers were posted across all departments, including for commercial and operations ticket
checking, Railway Protection Force, announcers and conservancy staffers. Even it includes five-point
persons, totalling 41, under charge of Station Manager Mamta Kulkarni who holds distinction of
becoming first woman assistant station manager to be recruited by CR’s Mumbai Division in 1992.
Earlier records
In 1988, Indian Railways’ Mumbai region set new records in women’s empowerment with Surekha
Bhosale-Yadav becoming first woman train driver on CR. In 1992, world’s first ‘Ladies Special’
suburban train introduced on Western Railway.
Charlie-435: Indian Coast Guard commissions patrol vessel
January 11, 2018
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has commissioned Charlie-435, a state-of-the-art patrol vessel at
Karaikal in the Union Territory of Puducherry. It was commissioned by Puducherry Chief Minister V
Narayanasamy. With commissioning of Charlie-435, the Coast Guard station at Karaikal now has five
vessels.
Charlie-435
The patrol vessel ‘Charlie-435’ is equipped with modern navigation and communication system. The
vessel will strengthen coastal security between Chennai and Kanyakumari in the Eastern Coastal

region. It will be also of great help in rescuing fishermen who go adrift in sea due to bad weather.
Committee of Governors submits report to President
January 11, 2018
The Committee of Governors submitted its report ‘Rajyapal –VikasKeRajdoot: Catalytic Role of
Governors as Agents for Change in Society’ to President Ram NathKovind at Rashtrapati Bhavan.
The Committee was constituted by President during 48th Conference of Governors in October 2017
to examine role of Governors in taking forward the developmental process. It comprises ESL
Narasimhan (Governor of Andhra Pradesh and Telangana), BanwarilalPurohit, (Governor of Tamil
Nadu), Ram Naik (Governor of Uttar Pradesh), Tathagata Roy (Governor of Tripura) and Acharya
Devvrat (Governor of Himachal Pradesh)
Report Highlights
Committee of Governors in its report has described an action-outcome framework to be adopted by
Raj Bhavans in their role as change agents and lists out potential priorities. It also emphasizes
identifying priority areas along with activities that can help realise objectives of SarvShrest Bharat
(paramount India). It suggests that Governors can play mentoring role in overall implementation of
developmental schemes in their states.
UIDAI introduces 2-tier security to Aadhaar to address privacy concerns
January 11, 2018
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has introduced two-tier security feature viz.
Virtual ID and Limited KYC to address privacy concerns.
The move aims to strengthen security and privacy of Aadhaar data. It will also reduce the collection
of Aadhaar numbers by various agencies.
Virtual ID
The Virtual ID will be random 16-digit number that can be generated from UIDA’s website and give
for various purposes, wherever Aadhaar number is necessary to provide. It will be linked with
biometrics of user that will give any authorised agency limited access of details like name, address
and photograph.
Using it, Aadhaar-card holders do not need to share their actual 12-digit biometric ID for any
authentication. User can generate as many Virtual IDs as they want. The older ID will get
automatically cancelled at time new one is generated. It will be obligatory for all agencies that
undertake authentication to accept Virtual ID from their users.
Limited KYC
It was introduced to address issue of storage of Aadhaar number within various databases. It will
only provide need-based or limited details of user to authorised agency that is providing particular
service. It will evaluate Authentication User Agencies (AUAs) and split them into two categories:
Global AUAs and Local AUAs.
Global AUAs will have access to full demographic details of an individual along with the ability to
store Aadhaar numbers within their system.
Remaining AUAs will be branded as Local AUAs and will neither get access to full KYC, nor can they
can store Aadhaar number on their systems. Instead, they will get tokenised number (UID Token)
issued by UIDAI to identify their customers. It will be 72 character alphanumeric.
Aadhaar
Aadhaar is 12 digit unique-identity number issued by Unique Identification Authority of India
(UIDAI) to all Indian residents based on their biometric and demographic data. It is the world’s
largest biometric ID system, with over 1.19 billion enrolled members as of November 2017. The
biometric and demographic data is collected by UIDAI, a statutory authority under the Ministry of
Electronics and Information Technology.
CABE sub-committee recommends free education for girls up to PG level
January 11, 2018
The sub-committee of Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) looking into issues of girl’s
education has recommended free and compulsory education for girls up to post-graduate level across
the country.
The sub-committee is likely to submit an interim report to Union Human Resource Development
Ministry during CABE meeting on January 15, 2018.

Background
The meeting of sub-committee was held in Hyderabad, Telangana and was chaired by Kadiam
Srihari, Deputy Chief Minister and Education Minister of Telangana. It was attended by Education
Ministers of Telangana, Jharkhand and Assam and Special Human Resources Development (HRD)
Department Special Secretary Rinarayi, Member Secretary Meenakshi Garg and other officials.
Key Outcomes of meeting
The sub-committee of CABE will also recommended establishing of exclusive residential degree
colleges for SC/ST women besides provision of providing health and hygiene kits to girls. The
committee also wants schools to maintain academic atmosphere, besides providing basic amenities
like toilets, maintenance, running water, safety measures and power supply and also appoint a
counsellor for adolescent girls.
Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE)
CABE is the policy making advisory body of the HRB Ministry. The committee has representatives of
central organisation, universities, state and bodies including planning commission, NGOs and civic
society. The CABE committee headed by HRD Minister is generally made for three years.
World Bank Report projects 7.3% growth for India in 2018
January 11, 2018
The 2018 Global Economics Prospect (GEP) released by the World Bank has projected India’s growth
rate to 7.3% in 2018 and 7.5 for the next two years i.e. 2019 and 2020.
According to report, India, despite initial setbacks from demonetisation and Goods and Services Tax
(GST), is estimated to have grown at 6.7% in 2017, higher than 6.5% estimated by Government.
Key Highlights of 2018 GEP
India has enormous growth potential compared to other emerging economies with implementation
of comprehensive reforms. In all likelihood, India is going to register higher growth rate than other
major emerging market economies in next decade.
China grew at 6.8% in 2017, 0.1% more than that of India, while in 2018, its growth rate is projected at
6.4%. In next two years, China’s growth rate will drop marginally to 6.3 and 6.2%, respectively. In
comparison with China, which is slowing, India growth will gradually accelerate.
To materialise its potential, India needed to take steps to boost investment prospects. On
productivity side, India has enormous potential with respect to secondary education completion rate.
India is also undertaking measures in terms of non- performing loans and productivity.
India’s prospects will further improve with improved labour market reforms, education and health
reforms as well as relaxing investment bottleneck. India has favourable demographic profile which is
rarely seen in other economies. In this, improving female labour force participation rate is going to
be important.
Global Economic Prospects
GEP is World Bank Group’s flagship report that examines global economic developments and
prospects with special focus on developing and emerging market economies. It is issued twice a year
in January and June. The January edition includes in-depth analyses of topical policy challenges
while June edition contains shorter analytical pieces.
India misses 2017 deadline for Kala Azar elimination
January 11, 2018
India has missed December 2017 deadline announced for elimination of Kala Azar (black fever) in
2017-18 Budget by the Union Government. Elimination in this case is defined as reducing annual
incidence of disease to less than 1 case per 10,000 people at the sub-district level.
Endemic blocks
In recent times endemic blocks have increased from 61 to 68 in 17 districts of Bihar and Jharkhand.
The active case findings rather than actual increase in disease are main reason for increase in
number of endemic blocks. Moreover, little-known skin condition called Post Kala Azar Dermal
Leishmaniasis (PKDL) — a red flag for transmission of Kala Azar—also has been growing steadily
over the past few years.
Reasons for missing deadline
For elimination of Kala Azar, its vector needs to be eliminated first. But it is very difficult to eliminate
vector as it dwells in wooden structure and escapes various measures to kill it. The majority of

houses in endemic blocks are made from wood. Hence, to stop infection transmission, pucca houses
need to be built.
Kala Azar
Kala-azar or visceral leishmaniasis (VL), also known as black fever and Dumdum fever is most severe
form of leishmaniasis. It is slow progressing indigenous disease caused by single-celled parasite of
Leishmania family. It belongs to Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) family of diseases which affect
poorest populations.
Its infection is transmitted by sand fly (Leishmania donovani), a blood-sucking pest, which is one-
third size of mosquitoes and found in moist (humid) mud and sand and in close proximity to
livestock.
It signs and symptoms include fever, weight loss, fatigue, anemia, and substantial swelling of liver
and spleen. It is treatable and requires a medical diagnosis. If untreated, kala-azar can kill within two
years of onset of ailment.
It is second-largest parasitic killer in world after Malaria. It is endemic to Indian subcontinent in 119
districts in four countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal). India accounts for half the global
burden of Kala-azar disease.
Cabinet approves fixed term for chairperson and members of National Trust
January 11, 2018
The Union Cabinet has decided to fix three-year term of chairperson and the members of the board
of the National Trust, an autonomous body under the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment,
In this regard, it has approved proposal to amend National Trust for Welfare of Person with Autism,
Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disabilities Act (NTA), 1999.
Key Facts
At present, Section 4 (1) of NTA, 1999 provides that chairperson or member of board of National Trust
will continue in office beyond prescribed term of 3 years until his successor is appointed by
government. In case of resignation of chairperson, section 5(1) of act provides for him to continue in
office until his successor is appointed by government.
The wording of above provisions of NT Act in its present form has resulted in continuation of
chairman for indefinite period as no suitable successor could be found eligible for appointment. The
proposed amendments to National Trust Act will avoid such situation and thus eliminate any chance
of prolonged continuation in the same post by any incumbent.
National Trust
It is a statutory body under Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan),
Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. Its mandate is to discharge two basic duties – legal and
welfare.
It fundamental purpose, is to create enabling environment, i.e. provide opportunities for Persons
with Disabilities (PwD) through comprehensive support systems which will lead towards
development of an inclusive society.
Objectives of National Trust
Enable and empower PWD to live as independently and fully as possible within and close to their community as
possible.
Facilitate realisation of equal opportunities, protection of rights and full participation of persons with disability.
Extend support to its registered organisations to provide need based services.
Evolve procedures for appointments of guardians and trustees for persons with disabilities.
Cabinet approves amendments to FDI Policy
January 11, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved number of amendments to Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) Policy.
The purpose of amendments is to simplify and liberalise FDI policy in India to provide ease of doing
business in country. The liberalized policy will lead to larger FDI inflows contributing to growth of
investment, employment and income.
Key amendments approved
100% FDI for Single Brand Retail Trading (SBRT) under automatic route.
100% FDI under automatic route in Construction Development.

Foreign airlines allowed investing up to 49% in Air India under government approval route.
FIIs/FPIs allowed investing in Power Exchanges through primary market.
Definition of ‘medical devices’ amended in FDI Policy.
FDI policy on SBRT
The existing policy FDI policy on SBRT allows 49% FDI under automatic route, and beyond 49% up to
100% is allowed through government approval route. The amendment now permits 100% FDI for
SBRT under automatic route. It also permits SBRT entity to set off its incremental sourcing of goods
from India for global operations during initial 5 years against mandatory sourcing requirement of
30% of purchases from India.
Incremental sourcing means increase in terms of value of such global sourcing from India for that
single brand (in Indian Rupees term) particular financial year over preceding financial year. After
completion of 5 year period, SBRT entity shall be required to meet 30% sourcing norms directly
towards its India’s operation on annual basis.
Construction Development
The amendment clarifies that real-estate broking service does not come under real estate business.
Therefore, it is eligible for 100% FDI under automatic route.
FDI in Civil Aviation
Foreign airlines are allowed to invest capital in Indian companies operating scheduled and non-
scheduled air transport services, up to the limit of 49% of their paid-up capital under government
approval route. However, this provision was not applicable to Air India, implying that foreign airlines
could not invest in Air India. The amendment does away with this restriction and allows foreign
airlines to invest up to 49% under approval route in Air India.
Power Exchanges
The present FDI policy allows 49% FDI in Power Exchanges registered under the Central Electricity
Regulatory Commission (Power Market) Regulations, 2010 under automatic route. However, Foreign
Portfolio Investors (FPIs) and Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) purchases were restricted to
secondary market only. The amendment now allows FIIs/FPIs to invest in Power Exchanges through
primary market as well.
Medical devices
The approved FDI Policy changes definition of ‘medical devices’. Earlier FDI policy on
pharmaceuticals sector provided definition of medical device as contained in FDI Policy will be
subject to amendment in Drugs and Cosmetics Act. As Now the reference to Drugs and Cosmetics
Act from FDI policy will be dropped.
January 12, 2018
January 12: National Youth Day
January 12, 2018
The National Youth Day is observed every year on 12 January to mark the birth anniversary of social
reformer, philosopher, thinker and youth icon of India Swami Vivekananda.
This year it is 155th birth anniversary of Swami Vivekananda. Observance of the day seeks to
propagate the philosophy and the ideals of Swami Vivekananda for which he lived and worked. It will
also help and act as great source of inspiration for the Indian Youth.
Swami Vivekananda
Swami Vivekananda was born as Narendranath Dutta on 12 January 1863 and died on 4 July 1902. He
and was chief disciple of 19th century saint Ramakrishna Paramhamsa. He was one of most
prominent figures of India who introduced Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to “Western”
World.
He is one of the greatest spiritual leaders and is credited with raising interfaith awareness, bringing
Hinduism to status of major world religion during late 19th century. He is also considered as major
force in revival of Hinduism in India, and contributed to concept of nationalism in colonial India.
He is best known for his speech which began, “Sisters and brothers of America …,” at the Parliament
of the World’s Religions in Chicago in 1893 in which he introduced Hinduism. This speech was
considered as one of his most significant contributions to world. He is also considered as source of
inspiration that created a concept of nationalism in colonial India.

4th International Dharma-Dhamma Conference held in Nalanda

January 12, 2018
The 4th International Dharma-Dhamma Conference on “State and Social Order in Dharma-Dhamma
Traditions” was held at Rajgir in Nalanda district, Bihar. It was inaugurated by President Ram Nath
Kovind.
The event was organised as part of commemorative events to celebrate Silver Jubilee (25) year of
ASEAN-India Dialogue Partnership. (ASEAN: Association of Southeast Asian Nations)
Key Facts
The Conference was organised by Nalanda University, in collaboration with Centre for Study of
Religion and Society, India Foundation, Ministry of External Affairs and Vietnam Buddhist
University. Its central theme was the ideal state and just social order based on dharmic principles.
The conference aimed to facilitate crosspollination of ideas and foster harmony at global level. It also
focused to explore shared values of dharmic traditions, which may provide the guiding light to
troubled world today. It was attended by 20-30 plenary speakers and around 60 papers were
presented by participants from 11 countries.
National Youth Festival held in New Delhi
January 12, 2018
The 22nd National Youth Festival (NYF) was held in New Delhi occasion of birth anniversary of
Swami Vivekananda, the youth icon of India. It was organised by Union Ministry of Youth Affairs &
Sports in collaboration with Uttar Pradesh Government at Gautam Buddha University Greater
Noida.
This is the first time that the National Youth Festival is being organized in National Capital Region
(NCR). The first National Youth Festival was held in 1995 in Bhopal.
Key Facts
NYF is the biggest Youth Festival of its kind in country. Its objective is to provide platform to bring
youth of country together in attempt to provide them opportunity to showcase their talents in
various activities. The Theme of 2017 NYF is ‘Sankalp Se Siddhi’. It seeks to capitalize on demographic
dividend of country’s youth and also capture vibrancy and fresh perspective of youth and to pledge to
accomplish goal of New India.
The festival provided common platform by creating mini-India, where youth interacted in formal and
informal settings and exchange their social and cultural uniqueness.
The entire programme and events of 2017 NYF were designed to enhance awareness about
government initiatives and exhorting youth to express their perceptions and concepts to make their
initiatives more effective. Around 5000 volunteers of National Service Scheme and Nehru Yuva
Kendra Sangathan from all parts of the country along with local accredited youth participated in the
5-day Festival.
JioCoin: Reliance Jio planning to launch its own cryptocurrency
January 12, 2018
Reliance Jio Infocomm Ltd is planning to create its own cyptocurrency, JioCoin. The Jiocoin project
is being led by Mukesh Ambani’s elder son Akash Ambani.
Under it, Reliance Jio is planning to build a 50-member team of young professionals to work on
blockchain technology, which can also be used for multiple applications and develop various
blockchain products. Reliance Jio is also aspiring to get into Internet of Things (IoT) and blockchain
technology will come in handy there.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain is decentralized incorruptible digital ledger for storing data across a peer-to-peer
network. It decentralizes information without it being copied. Information is held on blockchain
through shared database which can be accessed on real-time basis. This database is not stored on
physical servers but on cloud, which makes it easy to store unlimited data.
Blockchain technology is not controlled by any single entity and has no single point of failure. It is
transparent and incorruptible. It is kind of self-auditing ecosystem of digital value and blockchain
network automatically checks every transaction that happens in it.
The most popular application of technology so far has been cryptocurrency. But it is not limited to,
financial transactions and can be also used in smart contracts, supply chain management logistics,

sharing economy, crowdfunding, governance, file storage and date management and IoT.
Internet of Things (IoT)

IoT is a network of devices such as smartphones, wearable devices, home appliances and vehicles,
connected to internet, which enables these objects to connect and exchange data. Blockchain
technology has potential to address security risks to IoT as it provides a shield against data
tampering by labelling each block of data.

Indu Malhotra: First woman lawyer to be directly promoted as SC judge

January 12, 2018
The Supreme Court collegium led by Chief Justice of India (CI) Dipak Misra has unanimously
recommended name of senior advocate Indu Malhotra for appointment as a judge of the Supreme
Court. With this, she becomes first woman lawyer from the country to be directly elected for post of
judge of the Supreme Court.
Overall she will be seventh woman judge in SC, since it was established 67 years ago. In 1989, Justice
M. Fathima Beevi became first woman judge in Supreme Court. At present, Justice R. Banumathi is
lone woman judge in SC which currently has a strength of 25 judges of total sanctioned strength of
31 (including 31).
Indu Malhotra
Indu Malhotra is reputed senior advocate practising in SC or the past 30 years. She was born in 1956
in Bengaluru, Karnataka to noted advocate Om Prakash Malhotra.
She joined the legal profession in 1983 and later secured first position in Advocate-on-Record exam
for Supreme Court. She has specialised in law of arbitration and has appeared in various domestic
and international commercial arbitrations. She has authored Commentary on the Law and Practice
of Arbitration in India (2014).
In 2007, she became second woman to be designated as senior advocate by SC only after legendary
Justice Leila Seth, who was given honour in 1977. She is on board of trustees in SaveLIFE Foundation
and represented NGO in case which resulted in SC passing a slew of laws to protect good Samaritans,
who save lives in road accidents.
China to build Counter-Terrorism Base in Northern Afghanistan’s Badakshan province
January 12, 2018
China has announced to provide financial support to construct counter-terrorism base in Badakshan
province of northern Afghanistan that would prevent cross-border infiltration of the Chinese Uyghur
militants.
The decision in this regard was taken during recent meeting of Afghanistan Defence Minister Tariq
Shah Bahrami, Chinese Defence Minister Chang Wanquan.
Counter-Terrorism Base in Badakshan province
The location of counter-terrorism base has not yet been decided. The Chinese funding will include all
material i.e. weaponry, uniforms for soldiers, military equipment expenses and technical costs. China
and Afghanistan have formed a special commission to finalise the location of base, evaluate
construction costs and manage other technical issues.
Background
China side fears that Chinese Uyghurs militants, a Turkic ethnic Muslim group concentrated in
Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region in China were trained in Al Qaeda camps in Afghanistan that
were operational during Taliban rule in Afghanistan prior to 2001. Largest group of these militants
already resides in Afghan province of Badakhshan.
China believes that some ethnic Uyghurs are part of Islamic State present in Afghanistan’s northern
regions. They may enter into China through Afghanistan and make problems in its restive Xinjiang
province, the largest of China’s administrative regions, is inhabited mostly by Uighurs.
Ministry of Railways launches SFOORTI application
January 12, 2018
The Union Ministry of Railways has launched Smart Freight Operation Optimisation & Real Time
Information (SFOORTI) application to help plan traffic flows and optimize freight operations.
The app will help Freight Managers to monitor and manage freight business using Geographic

Information System (GIS) views and dashboard.
Key Facts
SFOORTI application will help to track movement of freight trains over Zones/Divisions/Sections on
GIS View. Even passenger trains can be tracked using it. It will help to monitor freight business along
with comparative analysis of Zonal and Divisional Traffic.
The app will help in analysis of new traffic captured and traffic lost and provides a Bird’s eye view of
all Freight Assets in a single window. It will also provide end to end Rake movement on Geospatial
view and will also help evaluate daily performance of expected traffic at Interchange points.
It has Freight Operation Information System (FOIS) Map View–A GIS based monitoring and
management tool designed and developed in CRIS which provides layered views of freight trains on
Indian Railways.
The FOIS Map View–A GIS has been designed to cater to Divisional, Zonal and Board levels of
management for improved freight operations and also help to plan the traffic flows and optimize
freight operations
Railway Freight traffic
Railway Freight traffic is vital for economic and industrial progress of the country. Freight traffic is
major source of revenue for Indian Railways. Only one-third of 13000 trains running daily by Indian
Railways are freight trains, but they accounts 65% of total revenue of Railways.
January 13, 2018
Fourth ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture & Forestry held in Delhi
January 13, 2018
The 4th ASEAN-INDIA Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture and Forestry was held at NASC Complex,
New Delhi. It was attended by representatives from 10 ASEAN countries.
The meeting was co-chaired by India’s Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Radha Mohan
Singh and Thailand’s Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Grisada Boonrach.
Key Facts
The aim of the meeting was to facilitate promotion of joint research for development of technologies
for increasing production and productivity of crops, livestock and fisherie, and natural resources
management, among others in the region.
It also aimed at development of joint ventures, exchange of technologies, expertise and material. The
meeting also aimed to enhance cooperation on exchange of expertise to promote resilience in food
security to address the price volatility of food supplies in the region.
The meeting held discussions focused on enhancing cooperation on exchange of expertise to
promote resilience in food security and to address the price volatility of food supplies in the region. It
was announced that 5th ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture and Forestry will be held in
2019 in Brunei Darussalam.
ASEAN
ASEAN is a regional organisation that aims to promote intergovernmental cooperation and
economic integration amongst its members. It consists of 10-member countries- Cambodia, Brunei,
Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. It came into
existence on August 8, 1967, after adoption of ASEAN declaration (also known as Bangkok
Declaration). It is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia.
NITI Aayog to rank 115 aspirational districts by April 2018
January 13, 2018
Government think-tank National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog has announced to
rank 115 backward (aspirational) districts by April 2018. It was announced at ‘Transformation of
Aspirational Districts’ conference.
These 115 backward districts include 35 districts affected by Left Wing Extremists (LWE) violence, 55
districts just affected by LWE and another 15 including districts in Jammu and Kashmir and
northeast affected by terrorism.
Key Facts
These 115 backward districts will be ranked on 10 socio-economic parameters which will include
nutrition, education and health. Moreover NITI Aayog will also set up a mechanism for real-time
monitoring of government’s development programmes by April 2018. It will also create dashboard

which will reflect change in ranking of districts on continuous basis by the end of March 2018.
Background
The Union Government had selected 115 backward districts for rapid transformation by 2022 in line
with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to create a “New India” over the next five years. During
the Transformation of Aspirational Districts’ conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked
collectors and officers-in- charge (Prabhari Officers) of the 115 aspirational districts to come up with
pioneering innovations to achieve visible results for development. Government has embarked upon
major policy initiative for rapid transformation of these 115 districts that are lagging on specific
development parameters.
IIP growth hits 17-month high of 8.4% in November 2017
January 13, 2018
India’s factory output, measured by the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) rose to 8.4% in November
2017 from 2% in October 2017. It was due to robust performance by manufacturing and capital goods
sectors.
According to data released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), it was highest growth registered by
IIP in 17-months. The previous high was recorded at 8.9% in June, 2016.
IIP Growth in November 2017
Manufacturing sector: Recorded an impressive growth of 10.2%.
Mining output: Recorded 1.1% growth.
Electricity generation: Recorded 3.9%..
Capital goods output: It is a barometer of investment. It grew by 9.4%.
Consumer durables output: It grew just by 2.5%. It reflected weakness in urban demand.
Consumer non-durables production: Recorded growth of 23.1%.
Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
The IIP is composite indicator that measures short-term changes in volume of production of a basket
of industrial products during a given period with respect to chosen base period. It is compiled and
published monthly by the Central Statistical Organization (CSO), Ministry of Statistics and
Programme Implementation.
Sector wise items and weightages: It covers 407 item groups. Sector wise, the items included falls
into 3 categories viz. Manufacturing (405 items), Mining (1 items) & Electricity (1 item). The weights
of the three sectors are 77.63%, 14.37%, 7.9% respectively.
The revised eight core Industries have a combined weightage of 40.27% in the IIP. Decreasing order
of weightage of core industries (base year 2011-12) is Petroleum Refinery production (weight:
28.04%), Electricity generation (19.85%), Steel production (17.92 %), Coal production (10.33 %), Crude
Oil production (8.98 %), Natural Gas production (6.88 %), Steel production (17.92 %) and Fertilizer
production (2.63 %).
Base year: The CSO had revised the base year of the IIP from 2004-05 to 2011-12 in May 2017 to
capture structural changes in the economy and improves the quality and representativeness of the
indices. The revised IIP (2011-12) reflects the changes in the industrial sector and also aligns it with
the base year of other macroeconomic indicators like the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) and Gross
Domestic Product (GDP).
North Koel Reservoir Project: Water Resources Ministry ink MoU with Bihar and Jharkhand
January 13, 2018
The Union Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation has inked
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bihar and Jharkhand for completion of balance works of
North Koel reservoir project.
Moreover, supplementary Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed between Ministry of Water
Resources, National Water Development Agency, NABARD with both states for funding under Long
Term Irrigation Fund (LTIF) for the project.
Funding
The project is scheduled to be completed in 30 months at the estimated cost of Rs. 1622.27 crores. Of
this Rs. 1013.11 crores will be borne by Union Government as grant from LTIF under Pradhan Mantri
Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY). I60% will be financed by Central Government from LTIF and

remaining 40% of cost will be borne by the States through loan financed by NABARD.
North Koel Reservoir Project
The project is situated on North Koel river, tributary on Sone River. It aims to provide irrigation to
111,521 hectares of land annually in most backward and drought prone areas in Jharkhand and Bihar.
The construction of the projected originally had started in 1972 and continued till 1993 when it was
stopped by the Bihar forest department over environmental concerns.
The Mandal dam as part of the project had threatened to submerge portions of the Palamau Tiger
Reserve and Betla National Park. The National Wildlife Board (NWB) had cleared the project in June
2017 with certain conditions.
North Koel River
North Koel River rises on Ranchi plateau in Jharkhand. It joins the Sone River (only right bank
tributary of Ganga River) a few miles north-west of Haidarnagar. Its principal tributaries are the
Auranga and the Amanat. It meanders through the northern part of Betla National Park.
Environment Ministry refuses captive breeding of Chiru
January 13, 2018
The Ministry of Environment and Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has refused to allow
captive breeding of Chiru (Tibetan antelope), whose underfur is used for making famous shahtoosh
shawls.
The suggestion for captive breeding was made by Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science &
Technology, Environment & Forests asking to consider captive breeding as it will add to livelihood of
people of Kashmir.
Shahtoosh shawls
Chiru for long time have been hunted for their underfur, which is renowned for its quality which is
traditionally woven into an extremely fine fabric to make Shahtoosh shawls. It takes three to five
hides to make a single shawl. Moreover, the wool cannot be sheared or combed and to collect the fur,
the animals have to be killed. At present, Shahtoosh shawls’ sale and possession is banned in India
and in many countries.
Parliament panel view
The Parliament panel was of view that MoEFCC should conserve and breed Chiru goat, which can
then be given to shawl makers for collecting hair. This would increase number of these goats but
would also add to sustainable livelihood opportunities of people of Kashmir, who are lot dependant
on the handicraft of embroidered shawls. It also cited that China and Mongolia are breeding Chiru
goats for its wool, which is very expensive. The cost of an embroidered shahtoosh shawl can run into
crores of rupees.
MoEFCC Argument
Chiru is assessed as ‘Near Threatened’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
2017. Their current low population can only be maintained with continued high levels of protection
in its natural. Any relaxation in protection regime of animal will lead to rapid population decline due
to commercial poaching.
Chiru inhabits high-altitude Tibetan plateau and requires large expanse of land for its movement and
ranging patterns to fulfil its feeding and breeding requirements. Rearing it in captivity is extremely
difficult. Besides, any attempt to do conservation breeding at very high altitude regions of Ladakh
may not be economical or feasible as humans cannot be posted there continuously for more than 2-3
months. Moreover Chinese also have failed to keep Chiru in captivity due to its poor survival rates.
Chiru (Tibetan antelope)
Its Scientific name is Pantholops hodgsonii. This antelope is considered to be close to goat family. It
lives at a 3,250-5,500 metre elevation in high altitude plains and montane valleys comprising of
alpine and desert steppe and pasture, distinguished by low vegetation cover and productivity.
Predators such as wolf, lynx, snow leopard, and red fox are predators of chirus and their young
calves.
Protection Status: ‘Near Threatened’ in IUCN Red List. It has been enlisted in Schedule I of Wildlife
Protection Act, 1972. To enhance its protection, its prime habitats have been declared as Wildlife
Sanctuaries viz. Karakorma Wildlife Sanctuary and Changthang Cold Desert Wildlife Sanctuary.

Nepal starts receiving internet connection from China

January 13, 2018
Nepal has started accessing internet from China after commercial operation of Nepal-China optical
fibre link via Rasuwagadhi gateway across Himalayan Mountains became operational.
The commercial operation of Chinese bandwidth project now ends Nepal’s sole dependence on India
for internet bandwidth. It is considered as loss for India, both revenue wise and strategically.
Key Facts
The actual volume of Chinese internet bandwidth that Nepal will receive has not been disclosed. It
believed that initial speed by Chinese fibre link will be 1.5 Gigabit per second (gbps), less than 34gbps
provided by India.
Chinese internet bandwidth will provide alternative source for Nepal to meet ever-increasing
bandwidth demand as use of Internet has been increasing rapidly in the Himalayan country.
Chinese Internet gateway is also expected to facilitate service providers in Nepal to establish
bandwidth connection with other countries via China. It is also considered as milestone for
developing internet infrastructure in Nepal and boost bilateral relations between both countries.
Background
Nepal is currently linked to global internet connectivity through Indian telecom operators via
different optical fibre connections in Biratnagar, Bhairahawa and Birgunj, among others. This gave
India complete monopoly in supplying internet to Himalayan nation. In December 2016, state owned
Nepal Telecom (NT) had signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Telecom to
acquire internet bandwidth. NT had begun test transmission of project from September 2017.
China launches two BeiDou-3 navigation satellites into space
January 13, 2018
China has successfully launched two BeiDou-3 satellites to provide navigation and positioning
services to countries along Belt and Road initiative (BRI) by the end of 2018.
The two satellites were designated as BeiDou-3 M7 and BeiDou-3 M8 (26th and 27th satellites) in
BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS).
Key Facts
These two satellites were launched on board of Long March-3B carrier rocket from Xichang Satellite
Launch Centre in southwestern province of Sichuan. This was first launch of the BeiDou satellites in
2018. China is plannig to send 18 BeiDou-3 satellites into space in 2018.
These two satellites were based on newly-developed dedicated satellite bus and weigh about 1 metric
ton each. Both spacecraft had two deployable solar arrays and are designed to be operational for
about 12 years. These newly-launched satellites represent third phase of BDS system (BeiDou-3). The
first BeiDou-3 satellite was launched in March of 2015
BeiDou
BeiDou is 2nd generation of Chinese homegrown navigational system seen as rival to US’s Global
Positioning System (GPS). It was named after Chinese term for plough or Big Dipper constellation.
It comprises constellation of total 35 satellites in two separate satellite constellations viz. limited test
system (operational since 2000) and full-scale global navigation system which is currently under
construction. The first BeiDou satellite was sent into space in 2000.
It became operational in December 2011, with constellation of 10 satellites providing services in
China only. In December 2012, it began offering services to customers in Asia-Pacific region. On its
completion in 2020, it will provide services to global customers.
Currently it used for civilian services in field of navigation, messaging, transportation and weather
forecasting sectors. It also has military applications.
EC constitutes Umesh Sinha Committee for considering social media expansion
January 13, 2018
The Election Commission (EC) has constituted 14 member committee headed by Umesh Sinha to
suggest changes to Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) in view of social
media expansion.
Section 126 of RP Act, 1951 prohibits displaying any election matter by means of television or similar
apparatus, during the period of 48 hours before the hour fixed for conclusion of poll in a
constituency. It does not include social and new media under its ambit.

Composition: The Committee will be headed by Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha.
It will comprise of 9 officers of EC, one nominated member each from Ministry of Law, Information
and Broadcasting Ministry, IT Ministry, Press Council of India (PCI) and National Broadcasters
Association (NBA).
Terms of Reference of the Committee
The committed will study impact of new media and social media during the “silence period” i.e.
during 48 hours period prior to elections and its implication in view of Section 126 of RP Act, 1951. It
will suggest modifications to the RP Act, 1951and model code of conduct (MCC). It will also examine
difficulties faced in regulating media platforms during the prohibitory 48 hours in a multi-phase
election It will submit its report within three months.
Indian Navy decommissions INS Nirbhik and INS Nirghat warships
January 13, 2018
Indian Navy has decommissioned INS Nirbhik and INS Nirghat warships at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai
(Maharashtra), after a glorious 30 and 28 years respectively in the service of the nation.
During their glorious service over almost three decades, these ships had participated in numerous
operations including Operations Parakram and Vijay.
Key Facts
INS Nirbhik and INS Nirghat in their new avatars were commissioned at Poti in erstwhile USSR (now
in Russia) in December 1987 and December 1989 respectively. These ships belonged to Killer
squadron and were forward deployed off Gujarat on numerous occasions for patrolling
They had four gas turbine engines that enabled them to achieve fast speeds close to 40 Knots. Their
weapon package included four Surface to Surface missile, medium range AK 176 gun and close range
AK 630 in addition to small calibre guns packs a lethal punch. These ships were manned by a crew of
70 sailors and seven officers.
These ships were inheritors of proud legacy as their original avatars were flag bearers of naval
offensive action on Karachi Harbour during India-Pakistan war in 1971.
Ministry of Petroleum launches Saksham 2018 Campaign
January 13, 2018
The Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) under the aegis of Ministry of Petroleum
& Natural Gas has launched month long Saksham 2018 (Sanrakshan Kshamta Mahotsav).
Saksham is annual flagship event of PCRA with active involvement of Oil & Gas PSUs along with
other stakeholders like State Governments.
Key Facts
Saksham aims at creating focused attention on fuel conservation through people centric activities
and sensitize masses about conservation and efficient use of petroleum products leading to better
health and environment. It also aims to intensify efforts for making citizens aware about
conservation and effective utilization of petroleum products. It seeks to enthuse masses with new
energy coupled with all-out effort for saving precious fuel, which will also contribute in keeping our
environment green.
Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA)
The PCRA is an organization under the aegis of the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. It
was established in 1978. It is engaged in promoting energy efficiency in various sectors of the
economy. It helps government in proposing policies and strategies aimed at reducing India’s
dependency on oil, in order to save money, reduce environmental impact of oil use and also conserve
fossil fuel.
January 14-15, 2018
Kerala Government launches Kerala Accelerator Program for early-stage startups
January 14, 2018
Kerala Government has introduced Kerala Accelerator Program, a virtual accelerator program for
three months, to promote startups in the early revenue stage. It was launched by Kerala Startup
Mission (KSUM) in association with Zone Startups India.
Kerala Accelerator Program
This program will help startups achieve product-market fit through a curated customer validation
process. It will introduce startups to investors, relevant customers and industry connects. It will

provide both live and virtual mentoring sessions.
Under, it mentors will visit state capital Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi to interact with selected
startups. It also provides a one week residential program in Bangalore and Mumbai to selected
startups. It also provides weekly reviews, customer interactions and an end-of-programme ‘demo
day’ with investors.
Zone Startups
Zone Startups is global brand of early stage tech accelerators and venture funds operated by Toronto
based Ryerson Futures Inc. Its Indian subsidiary has been set up as joint-venture of Ryerson Futures
Inc., Simon Fraser University (Vancouver), BSE Institute Limited and Department of Science and
Technology (Government of India).
India’s first-ever FDI in fertiliser sector: Yara acquires Tata Chemicals urea plant
January 14, 2018
Norwegian fertiliser giant Yara International has announced completion of its acquisition of Tata
Chemicals’ 1.2 million tonnes per annum production capacity urea plant at Babrala in Uttar Pradesh.
The Rs. 2,682-crore acquisition deal includes transfer of all assets and liabilities (including working
capital) relating to Babrala unit. It marks first foreign direct investment (FDI) in India’s highly
regulated urea sector.
Key Facts
The acquisition represents a major step of Yara as it deepens its footprint in India, world’s second
largest fertiliser market after China. Moreover, a greenfield urea-ammonia plant of this size at
Babrala will entail a setting up cost of $1 billion.
Yara is headquartered in Oslo, Norway. Current it does annual sales of $35-40 million in India. Much
of it comprises premium micronutrients, complex and water-soluble fertilisers used in high-value
crops such as banana, grapes, apples, sugarcane, chilli and vegetables grown mainly in Maharashtra,
Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh.
Rizhao: China commissions new missile frigate
January 14, 2018
China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy has commissioned Rizhao, a new missile frigate, in a naval
port in Dalian, China. It is China’s indigenous missile frigate named after Rizhao city in Shandong
Province of China.
Rizhao
The Rizhao missile frigate is 140 metres long and 16 metres wide. It was designed and made in China.
It has a displacement of nearly 4,000 tonnes. It is equipped with advanced weapons systems and has
ability to attack enemy ships and submarines on its own or in coordination with other naval forces. It
was launched in April 2017. Frigates are naval vessels intermediate between corvettes and
destroyers.
Delhi is richest state, Jain wealthiest community: NFHS-4 wealth index
January 14, 2018
According to wealth index released on basis of data from fourth round of National Family and Health
Survey (NFHS-4) Delhi is richest state and Jain wealthiest community in the country.
The NFHS-4 was conducted among more than 6 lakh households in 2015-16. It was largest sample
size and was carried out just couple of years ago that provided useful source of information in
analysing India’s socio-economic landscape.
Wealth index
The wealth index as part of NFHS-4 was prepared on basis of information of scores on ownership of
consumer goods such as television and bicycles and household characteristics such as availability of
clean drinking water.
This information was used to classify all households into wealth quintiles. Those in lowest quintile
were poorest 20%, while those in top were richest 20% of lot. The report then used these quintile
scores to classify population for states, caste and religious groups and rural-urban areas into each
quintile.
Key Facts
State wise wealth Distribution: Delhi and Punjab are richest states with over 60% of their
households in the top wealth quintile. They are followed by Goa with 54.5% households in top

bracket. Bihar is poorest state half of its households in the bottom quintile. Rajasthan has most
equitable wealth distribution with similar number of households in all quintiles.
Wealth distribution in religious groups: Jains are the most prosperous religious community in India
with 70% of its population in the top quintile. Only 1.5% of Jain households fall in lowest two
quintiles. Sikhs follow next, with 59.6% of their people in the top wealth quintile. Hindus and Muslims
have similar and also most equitable wealth distribution across all quintiles.
Community wise wealth distribution: Upper castes in India have almost double families in top
quintile as compared to any other caste. Scheduled tribes are the poorest with 45.9% of their people
in lowest quintile.
Rural and Urban wealth: Poverty is predominantly a rural phenomenon in India. 29% of rural India
belongs to bottom quintile, while it is just 3.3% for urban India. 29% of the rural population has
wealth levels equivalent to bottom 20% of the country’s population.
Concern: High levels of income and wealth inequality are matter of great concern in India. NFHS-4
statistics on disparity in wealth-holdings across various categories shows that there cannot be one
size fits all policy if the government is serious about addressing this problem.
Teen Murti Chowk renamed after Israeli city Haifa

January 15, 2018
The iconic Teen Murti Chowk in central New Delhi was renamed as Teen Murti-Haifa after Israeli
City Haifa in solemn ceremony attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli
counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu.
The idea of renaming Teen Murti road and chowk after Haifa was proposed in New Delhi Municipal
Council (NDMC) council meeting during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel in July 2017.
This year marks the centenary year of Battle for Haifa. The renaming of the iconic war memorial is
aimed at being symbolic gesture of India’s friendship with Israel.
Teen Murti Chowk
Teen Murti Chowk was named to mark role of the three cavalry regiments. The three bronze statues
at Teen Murti represent Hyderabad, Jodhpur and Mysore Lancers who were part of 15 Imperial
Service Cavalry Brigade in British Indian Army. The brigade had carried out victorious assault on
fortified city of Haifa also known as Battle for Haifa on September 23, 1918, during World War I.
There are various accounts of this heroic battle – all narrate valour with which lancers undertook
assault on garrisoned city protected by joint force of Ottomans, Germany and Austria-Hungary. The

liberation of Haifa cleared supply route for Allies (Britain, France and Italy) to city through sea. 44
Indian soldiers made ultimate sacrifice during liberation of the city in WW I.
Till date, 61 Cavalry celebrates September 23 as its Raising Day or “Haifa Day” to respect soldiers who
lost their lives in battle and to mark end of 400 years of Turkish control over the city.
7th Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav 2018 held in Karnataka
January 15, 2018
7th edition of Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav (RSM) 2018 under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
programme was held in Bengaluru, Karnataka from January 14-20, 2018. The event was organised by
Union Ministry of Culture,
It was inaugurated by Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Ananth Kumar in the presence of Minister
of State for Culture Mahesh Sharma.
Key Facts
Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav aims to celebrate national integration and idea of unity in diversity of
country. It celebrates rich culture and heritage of India. It aims to provide platform to bring together
artists from each corner of country. It covers events including art forms from classical and folk,
music and dance, theatre to literature and visual arts. It also showcases gallery of Indian art forms
and tradition for the discerning audience.
Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat Programme
It was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Ekta Diwas (31st October 2016) on the occasion
of birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel. Its objective is to
Strengthen cultural relations of various parts of country and to embolden mutual connection between people
dwelling in different states.
Celebrate unity in diversity culture of nation and bolster sentimental bonds between people of different states.
Strengthen sentiments for National Unity between the citizens of states and states governed by union government
by conducting various activities throughout the year under this campaign.
Showcase rich heritage and culture, customs and traditions of either State for enabling people to understand and
appreciate the diversity that is India, thus fostering a sense of common identity.
Establish long-term engagements and create environment which promotes learning between States by sharing
best practices and experiences.
India, UK ink MoUs to enable return of illegal Indian migrants and sharing of criminal records
January 15, 2018
India and United Kingdom (UK) have signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) dealing
with return of Indians residing in Britain as illegal migrants and sharing of criminal records and
intelligence.
The MoUs were signed by India’s Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju and UK’s
Minister of Immigration Caroline Nokes in London.
Key Facts
MoU on return of illegal Indian migrants: It paves way for quicker and more efficient process for
documentation and return of Indians who are illegally residing in United Kingdom. It also commits
both countries to take more flexible approach to verify identity and nationality of individuals to
speed up returns process.
MoU on criminal records exchange: It will help in sharing of criminal records, fingerprints and
intelligence between Indian and British law enforcement bodies. It will help police forces from both
countries to strengthen their law enforcement and protect the public from known criminals
including sex offenders. It will also allow courts of both countries to get access to more information
to support tougher sentencing decisions.
NCDEX launches India’s first agri-options trading in Guarseed
January 15, 2018
The National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange Ltd (NCDEX) unveiled India’s first agricultural-
commodity options in Guarseed designed as hedge for farmers to safeguard against price risks. It
was launched by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in New Delhi.
Key Facts
NCDEX’s guarseed option is one of the most liquid contracts on the exchange platform. Its three

options contracts in guarseed will expire in February, March and April 2018 and will be made
available for trading.
NCDEX is second exchange after MCX to launch options trading in commodities. In October 2017,
MCX had launched gold options. Market regulator SEBI had allowed NCDEX to launch options in
September 2016 and later had clarified that options will have futures as underlying for settlement.
Significance
Options are derivatives which give a buyer right but not obligation to buy or sell an underlying asset
or instrument at specific price on or before a certain date. The option trading is powerful tool to
hedge price risks and will boost the development of agri-commodity market. It is considered as one
of major steps towards taking farmers out of situation resulting in drastic fall in prices of some agri-
commodities due to higher production. This initiative will benefit farmers and ensure better prices
for their produce in the coming days.
Importance of Guarseed
Guar gum is extracted from guar seed which is used by drilling companies to thicken water mixed
with sand and pumped through shale rock cracks to extract gas. It is also used as thickening agent in
products such as ice cream, bread, pasta, sausages and pastries.
North American oil and gas industry are mostly uses guar gum from India. Increase in crude oil
prices creates demand for guar in North America’s shale gas industry. Rajasthan, Haryana and parts
of Gujarat are major guar producers in the country.
Elcysma Ziroensis: New moth species discovered in Arunachal Pradesh
January 15, 2018
Researchers from Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) have discovered a new species of moth,
scientifically named Elcysma Ziroensis from Talley Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh.
The discovery was published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa, an international journal on
conservation and taxonomy.
Key Facts
Elcysma Ziroensis is commonly called Apatani Glory, named after a local tribe called Apatani. It was
discovered at an elevation of 1,700m in Ziro. This discovery represents the first record of Elcysma
from Arunachal Pradesh.
This species has only been seen during autumn, notably in month of September. This indicates that it
is univoltine species, meaning it has one brood of young in a year.
Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary
It is a wildlife sanctuary as well as a bio-diversity hotspot located in Arunachal Pradesh. It is situated
at altitude of 2400 metres with rivers like Pange, Sipu, Karing and Subansiri flowing through the
Reserved Forest and Sanctuary. Talley is plateau with dense forest of silver fir trees, pine clad plateau
of beautiful grandeur, and vast wasteland. It mainly comprises sub-tropical and alpine forests and
has variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endangered. It is home to highly endangered
species like clouded leopard. Pleioblastus simone is a bamboo variety only found in Talley Valley.
Arunachal Pradesh as a whole contains 40% of the floral and faunal species in India.
India contributes $50,000 to UN Youth Envoy’s office
January 15, 2018
India has contributed $50,000 to United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres’s Office of
Envoy on Youth to help with its mission of involving young people in the world body’s goals.
The contribution was handed over by Paulomi Tripathi, a First Secretary in India’s UN Mission to the
Youth Envoy Jayathma Wickramanayake.
Key Facts
The contribution made by India is voluntary with no strings attached. It is in addition to regular
payments India makes to UN’s general and peacekeeping budgets. Jayathma Wickramanayake from
Sri Lanka was appointed the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth in June 2017 at the age of 26.
The Youth Envoy’s works to raise international awareness and attention to youth issues among
others. Its mission aims to promote engagement of youth and advocate for them across all the four
pillars of UN’s work –human rights, peace and security, sustainable development and humanitarian
action.

IRFC’s green bonds: India INX lists 1st debt security at IFSC
January 15, 2018
The India International Exchange (India INX) has listed the Indian Railway Finance Corporation’s
(IRFC’s) green bonds on its debt listing platform-Global Securities Market (GSM).
With this, IRFC green bonds became first debt security to be listed on exchange at International
Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat’s GIFT city. India INX’s GSM segment is India’s first debt
listing platform. It allows raising funds in any currency of choice by both foreign and Indian issuers
from investors across the globe.
Indian Railway Finance Corporation
IRFC is finance arm of Indian Railway. It raises financial resources for expansion and running
through capital markets and other borrowings. It raises money mainly through financial bonds and
from banks and financial institutions. In 2017, IRFC had raised $500 million from 10- year green bond
from investors in Asia, Europe and offshore US through listing on the London Stock Exchange (LSE).
Green Bonds
Bonds basically are debt instruments which help issuer to get capital while the investors receive
fixed income in the form of interest. In case of Green Bonds, the issuer gets capital from the investors
only if investment (capital) is being raised to fund green projects relating to renewable energy or
emission reductions etc.
India International Exchange (India INX)
Indai-INX is India s first international exchange at IFSC Gujarat International Financial Tech (GIFT)
City, Gandhinagar. It is wholly-owned subsidiary of Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), through its global
bourse. It is one of the world’s most advanced and fastest trading technology platforms with turn-
around time of 4 micro seconds. It will operate for 22 hours a day allowing international investors
and NRIs to trade from anywhere across globe. It trades in equity derivatives, currency derivatives,
commodity derivatives including Index and Stocks. It also offers depository receipts and bonds.
India ranks 30th on WEF’s Global Manufacturing Index
January 15, 2018
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has ranked India at 30th position among 100 countries on its
Global Manufacturing Index (GMI).
The index was released as part of WEF’s first Readiness for the future of production Report which
analysed development of modern industrial strategies and urges collaborative action.
Readiness for future of production Report
The report was developed by WEF in collaboration with A.T. Kearney. It analyses and measures how
well positioned 100 countries will shape and benefit from changing nature of production through
adoption of emerging technology as part of Fourth Industrial Revolution in production. It calls for
new and innovative approaches to public-private collaboration are needed to accelerate
transformation.
It has categorised 100 countries into four groups viz. Leading (strong current base, high level of
readiness for future), High Potential (limited current base, high potential for future), Legacy (strong
current base, at risk for future) or Nascent (limited current base, low level of readiness for future).
Key Highlights of Report
Top 10 countries in GMI: Japan, South Korea, Germany, Switzerland, China, Czech Republic, United
States, Sweden, Austria and Ireland.
BRICS nations: China (25th), Russia (35th), Brazil (41st) and South Africa (45th). China was placed
among ‘leading countries’. Indian and Russia were placed in ‘Legacy’ group while Brazil and South
Africa are in ‘nascent’ ones.
The 25 ‘leading’ countries were placed in best position group to gain as production systems stand on
brink of exponential change. No country was placed in frontier of readiness group.
About India: It is 5th-largest manufacturer in world with total manufacturing value added of over
US $420 billion in 2016. Its manufacturing sector has grown by over 7% per year on average in past
three decades and accounts for 16-20% of India’s GDP. Demand for Indian manufactured products is
rising.
India was ranked 9th in terms of scale of production and at 48th place for complexity. It was ranked
3rd for market size. It was ranked poorly (90th or even lower) in parameters like female participation

in labour force, trade tariffs, regulatory efficiency and sustainable resources.
Overall, India ranked better than its neighbours Sri Lanka (66th), Pakistan (74th) and Bangladesh
(80th). Other countries that ranked below India include Turkey, Indonesia, Canada, Australia, New
Zealand, Mauritius and UAE.
World Economic Forum
WEF is independent international organization committed to improving state of world by engaging
business, political, academic and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry
agendas. It was incorporated as a not-for-profit foundation in 1971. It is headquartered in Geneva,
Switzerland.
India, Israel sign 9 agreements in space, defence, cybersecurity
January 15, 2018
India and Israel have signed nine agreements to boost cooperation in the areas of space, cyber
security and oil and gas between both countries.
The agreements were signed following delegation-level talks headed by Prime Ministers Narendra
Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu in New Delhi. Netanyahu is first Israeli Prime
Minister to visit India in span of last 15 years and second one overall. Ariel Sharon was first and only
Israeli Prime Minister to visit India in 2003.
List of agreement signed
Agreement on Film-co-production.
Protocol on Amendments to Air Transport Agreement
MoU on Cyber Security Cooperation between India and Israel
Memorandum of Intent (MoI) between Invest India and Invest in Israel
Medical Centre on Cooperation in field of Research in Homeopathic Medicine
Letter of Intent (LoU) between IOCL and Phinergy Ltd. For cooperation in area of metal-air batteries
MoU between the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Ministry of Energy on Cooperation inOil and
Gas Sector
LoI between IOCL and Yeda Research and Development Co Ltd for cooperation in the area of concentrated solar
thermal technologies
MoU between Central Council for Research in Homeopathy, Ministry of AYUSH and Centre for Integrative
Complementary Medicine, Shaare Zedek
MoU between Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) and Technion- Israel Institute of
Technology for cooperation in field of space.
January 16, 2018
International Workshop on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure held in New Delhi
January 16, 2018
The International Workshop on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (IWDRI) was held in New Delhi. It
was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh.
The workshop was organised by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration
with United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR).
Key Facts
The workshop aimed to take this dialogue on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and global cooperation
further. It had brought together countries from different parts of the world with different socio-
economic backgrounds and geographical features. It provided great opportunity to learn from their
unique experiences in their efforts towards building disaster resilient infrastructure.
The workshop also saw participation of multilateral development banks, United Nations, private
sector and academics to identify best practices in infrastructure sector as well as key issues in
existing practices and ways to address them.
65th meeting of Central Advisory Board of Education held in New Delhi
January 16, 2018
The 65th Meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) was held under Chairmanship
of Union Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar in New Delhi.
Education Ministers of 20 States, representatives of 28 states/UTs, members of CABE, heads of

autonomous organisations, Vice Chancellors of Universities attended the meeting.
Resolutions adopted in meeting
Operation Digital Board will be launched in all schools in five years and will be undertaken jointly by
Centre, State, Corporate Social Responsibility and community. It will improve quality of education.
Under it, students will be empowered with 360 degree information with interesting learning
experience and increase teacher accountability.
CABE also will ensure to provide Quality, Equity, Accessibility, Accountability and Affordability in
education by pro-active action and plan.
It will also promote Swacch Bharat, Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat, Padhe Bharat, Sugamya Bharat and
physical education. It also resolved to promote human value education, life skill education,
experiential learning to bring out good human beings out of education system.
Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE)
CABE is the policy making advisory body of the HRB Ministry. The committee has representatives of
central organisation, universities, state and bodies including planning commission, NGOs and civic
society. The CABE committee headed by HRD Minister is generally made for three years.
India, Sri Lanka sign four agreements for collaboration in ICT sector
January 16, 2018
India and Sri Lanka signed four agreements for collaboration in Information and communication
technology (ICT) sector between both countries.
The MoU for cooperation was signed by Union minister for Information Technology Ravi Shankar
Prasad with his Sri Lankan counterpart in Colombo.
Key Facts
The agreements were signed for collaboration in ICT sector and setting up of e-office system and
connecting of National Knowledge network (NKN) for collaboration among universities and
academics. With this, Sri Lanka became first country to be connected to NKN through Gigabyte (GB)
optical fibre network. This will connect NKN to Lanka education & research network (LEARN) through
which universities on both sides can share best practices and research ideas. National Informatics
centre (NIC) has set up a model E-office system for Sri Lanka.
National Knowledge Network (NKN)
NKN is a state-of-the-art multi-gigabit pan-Indian resource-sharing network aimed at digitally
connecting all national universities, colleges and research establishments to create country-wide
virtual classrooms. This project was launched in 2010 for period of 10 years. Currently, it is
component of umbrella “Digital India” programme.
Objectives of NKN: It aims to connect universities, research institutions, libraries, laboratories,
healthcare and agricultural institutions across country with high bandwidth (multi-gigabit)/low
latency internet connection so that they can share the knowledge, information and data. Its core idea
is to bring together all stakeholders from science, technology, higher education, healthcare,
agriculture and governance to a common platform.
Mandate of NKN
Establish high-speed backbone connectivity which will enable knowledge and information sharing.
Enable collaborative research, development and Innovation
Facilitate an ultra-high speed backbone for e-Governance
Link to Global Networks to collaborate with research communities across the globe.
Facilitate advanced distance education in specialized fields such as engineering, science, medicine etc.
Facilitate integration of different sectorial networks in field of health, education, research, commerce and
governance.
IPrism: CIPAM-DIPP launches IP competition for college & university students
January 16, 2018
The Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM), Department of Industrial Policy and
Promotion (DIPP), in collaboration launched ‘IPrism’ for college and university students.
The one of its kind Intellectual Property (IP) Competition was launched by CIPAM-DIPP in
association with ASSOCHAM and ERICSSON India.

Key Facts
The IPrism competition aims to foster culture of innovation and creativity in younger generation. It
will provide young creators unique opportunity to see their creations recognized on national
platform. It invites students to submit films on piracy & counterfeiting under two categories of 30
and 60 seconds. In another category, there is competition is for mobile gaming app on IP.
Background
Counterfeiting and Piracy cause significant loss to film industry and pose serious safety threats to
consumers. By generating awareness it can help to tackle such crimes since limited knowledge about
their adverse social and economic impact leads to circulation and consumption of pirated content
and fake goods. The National IPR Policy adopted in May, 2016 that aims to create vibrant IP
ecosystem in country calls for creating IPR Awareness through outreach and promotional activities.
CIPAM
The CIPAM is nodal professional agency under DIPP, Ministry of Commerce & Industry. Its mandate
is to effectively implement National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy adopted in May 2016. It
has been actively involved in many activities including a nation-wide IPR awareness campaign. It has
undertaken several measures to strengthen IP ecosystem in country.
BBIN Motor Vehicles Agreement: India, Bangladesh, Nepal approve Passenger protocol
January 16, 2018
Bangladesh, India and Nepal agreed on text of operating procedures for passenger vehicle movement
(Passenger protocol) in sub-region under Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal (BBIN) Motor Vehicles
Agreement (MVA).
Decision in this regard was taken at meeting of High-level officials of three countries held in
Bengaluru, Karnataka. It was convened and chaired by India’s Ministry of Road Transport and
Highways (MoRTH).
Passenger protocol
The passenger protocol agreed upon is document detailing procedures for cross-border movement of
buses and private vehicles for transport facilitation in subregion. It will be signed by three countries
after completing necessary internal approval processes in their government. The delegations
participating countries also agreed to continue to conduct trial movement of cargo vehicles along
scheduled routes from April 2018 onwards, before finalizing protocol for cargo vehicular movement.
BBIN Motor Vehicles Agreement (MVA)
The landmark MVA was signed by Transport Ministers of BBIN countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India
and Nepal) in Thimphu, Bhutan in June 2015. India, Bangladesh and Nepal have already ratified MVA
and have agreed to start its implementation among three signatory countries. Bhutan will
bandwagon them after it ratifies the agreement.
The agreement will permit member states to ply their vehicles in each other’s territory for
transportation of cargo and passengers, including third country transport and personal vehicles
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is providing technical, advisory, and financial support to BBIN
MVA initiative as part of its assistance to South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC)
program. Earlier trail runs for cargo vehicles under MVA were conducted along Kolkata-Dhaka-
Agartala and Delhi-Kolkata-Dhaka routes which had successfully establishes their economic benefits.
SASEC program: It is projects-based economic cooperation initiative of ADB that brings together
BBIN countries, Maldives, Sri Lanka and more recently, Myanmar. ADB (Manila) is secretariat of
SASEC.
Vajra Prahar: Indo-US joint military exercise to be held in Seattle
January 16, 2018
The Indo-US joint military exercise ‘Vajra Prahar’ will be held at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in
Seattle in third week of January in line with the increasing military cooperation between both
countries.
In this edition of bilateral exercise, Indian Army team from the Pune-headquartered Southern
Command will participate. The exercise will mainly focus on special operations in urban areas.
Key Facts
The aim of the Vajra Prahar exercise is to promote military relations between two countries by
enhancing interoperability and mutual exchange of tactics between Special Forces. Its objectives are

to
Share best practices between two armies.
Develop joint strategies by sharing expertise of conducting operations in a counter-insurgency and counter-
terrorism environment.
Capitalise on rich repository of experiences of each other armies.
Background
‘Vajra Prahar’ is Indo-US Special Forces joint training exercise conducted alternately in India and the
US started in 2010. It is conducted annually, but there was a gap of three years between 2012 and
2015. The last edition was held in Jodhpur in March 2017.
3rd Raisina Dialogue held in New Delhi
January 16, 2018
The third edition of the geo-political conference – Raisina Dialogue was held in New Delhi. It was
inaugurated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
The event is jointly organised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Observer Research
Foundation (ORF). The theme of the conference for this year is ‘Managing Disruptive Transitions: Ideas,
Institutions and Idioms’.
Raisina Dialogue
Raisina Dialogue is an annual conference held in New Delhi. It is envisioned to be India’s flagship
conference of geopolitics and geo-economics. The name of conference comes from Raisina Hill which
is the elevation in New Delhi where presidential palace of India, Rashtrapati Bhavan is located.
It is organized on the lines of the Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore. It is structured as a multi-
stakeholder, cross-sectorial conclave, involving policy and decision makers, including cabinet
ministers from various Governments, high-level Government officials and policy practitioners,
leading personalities from business and industry etc.
The conference is held jointly by Ministry of External Affairs and the Observer Research Foundation
(ORF), an independent think tank based in India. The first edition of conference was held in March
2016 with theme “Asia: Regional and Global Connectivity”. The second edition of conference was held
in January 2017 with the theme “The New Normal: Multilateralism in a multipolar world”.
Coast Guards of India, Japan undertake joint naval exercise
January 16, 2018
The biennial search and rescue exercise between Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Japan Coast Guard
(JCG) was held near Chennai, Tamil Nadu in Bay of Bengal.
This was eighth such in series of ‘National Maritime Search and Rescue Workshop and Exercise’.
Ships and aircraft of Coast Guards from India and Japan, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force (IAF) and
National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) took part in it.
Key Facts
The aim of the exercise was to augment operational level interaction and capacity building in areas of
search and rescue, pollution response and maritime law enforcement. It also aimed to share best
management practices and continuation of personnel exchange.
The two-day exercise comprised of workshop and search and rescue operations in Bay of Bengal.
Observers from 27 maritime nations witnessed exercise, apart from representatives of National
Maritime Search and Rescue Board from central and state departments.
During exercise, rescue demonstrations by ships and aircraft showcased country’s search and rescue
capabilities and its commitment to safety of life in distress at sea.
Background
Relations between the Coast Guards of two countries go back long way with ICG ships calling on
ports in Japan for professional interactions since 2000. This biennial exercise is continuation of
efforts by governments of two countries to enhance cooperation between two Coast Guards in field
of maritime safety and security at sea.
January 17, 2018
Odisha Government launches Mukshyamantri Kalakar Sahayata Yojana
January 17, 2018
Odisha Government has launched Mukshyamantri Kalakar Sahayata Yojana (MMKSY) to provide

financial assistance to the literature and cultural artists of state. It was launched by Odisha Chief
Minister, Naveen Patnaik.
Features
The scheme is mainly for the welfare of literature and cultural artists of the state. It will provide
monthly financial assistance of Rs. 1200 to literature and cultural artists of state. State government
has also lowered age in the eligibility criteria as compared to previous artist assistance scheme,
under which only 4000 artists were being given Rs 1000 per month.
The scheme will facilitate the identification of artists from all districts. It will benefit around 50000
artists across the state. As per new eligibility criteria, male artist can get assistance under after
attaining age of 50 years (earlier it was 60 years) and female artist can get it at age of 40 years
(earlier it was 50 years).
Sikkim Government allows people to forge fraternal ties with trees
January 17, 2018
Sikkim Government has allowed people from state to forge fraternal ties with trees. In this regard,
State Forests, Department has issued notification titled Sikkim Forest Tree (Amity & Reverence)
Rules 2017.
The purpose of this move is to preserve trees by encouraging people to forge relationship of
brotherhood or sisterhood with trees through tradition practice locally known as Mitini or Mith/Mit.
Provision of notification
State government allows any person to associate with trees standing on his or her private land or on
any public land by entering into Mitini relationship. Person can also adopt tree as if it was his/her
own child, in which tree will be called adopted tree. Person can also adopt or preserve them in
remembrance of a departed relative in which case tree shall be called smriti tree.
In case person desires to enter into a relationship with a tree located on public land then permission
from forests department needs to be taken. If an individual wants to forge relationship with tree
which stands another person’s land, then concerned person shall execute agreement with owner and
compensate him in terms of market value of timber or wood contained in tree.
It prohibits felling or damage to any tree registered as Mitini, smriti or adopted tree and points out
that any such violation will be treated as forest offence.
Comment
Sikkim is one of cleanest and greenest north-eastern States. As per Forest Survey of India, 2015 forest
cover of Sikkim is 47.80 % of State’s total geographical area. The recent notification has given formal
recognition to age-old tradition of promoting amity between man and nature, particularly trees.
PM inaugurates Rajasthan’s first oil refinery at Barmer
January 17, 2018
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Ltd (HRRL) project
commencement of oil refinery in Rajasthan’s Barmer district. It is first oil refinery to be set up in
Rajasthan.
The project is undertaken as joint venture between Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited
(HPCL) and the Rajasthan government. HPCL owns 74% stake in the project, while the state
government owns 26%.
Key Facts
The project includes refinery and petroleum complex of 9 MMTPA capacity. It is expected to be
operational in 4 years (2022-23) at a cost of Rs 43000 crores. It is largest investment in the state till
date. It is expected to give major impetus to state’s economy and will bring to the state an additional
income of Rs 34000 crores.
It is also expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities. Further, it
is expected to bring an unprecedented surge in ancillary units, infrastructure development,
improvement of healthcare services and establishment of education institutions in Western
Rajasthan,
NITI Aayog launches first course under GIAN Program on Sustainable Urban Planning
January 17, 2018
The NITI Aayog has launched first course on Sustainable Urban planning using remote sensing and
Geographic Information System (GIS) at IIT Kanpur’s outreach centre in Noida.

This is first course conducted under Global Initiative on Academic Network (GIAN) Program of
Union Ministry of Human Resource Development. It is actively supported by NITI Aayog and
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
Key Facts
The course aims to give participants state-of-the-art remote sensing and GIS skills to allow them
managing rapidly changing urban environment of Indian cities. Its prime focus is on issues such as
water resource management, water pollution and water treatment facilities.
It is expected to contribute significantly to build trained manpower for Smart Cities that aims to
promote sustainable and inclusive cities that provide core infrastructure and give decent quality of
life to its citizens through clean and sustainable environment and application of Smart Solutions.
The participants for this course are mainly from Government departments such as ISRO, National
Mission on Clean Ganga, AP Remote Sensing Application Centre and students from different
engineering colleges and universities across country.
Global Initiative on Academic Network (GIAN)
GIAN in Higher Education is scheme of HRD Ministry that aims to boost the quality of the country’s
higher education through international collaboration. Its objective is to increase footfalls of reputed
international faculty to Indian academic institutes and thereby bring in international academic
excellence in India’s higher education institutions. It facilitates participation of high quality
international academicians for delivering short-term courses and programs in Indian institutions.
Government ends Haj subsidy
January 17, 2018
The Union Ministry of Minority Affairs has decided to end Haj subsidy from this year as a part of its
policy to empower minorities with dignity and without appeasement.
This decision was taken based on the recommendations of Afzal Amanullah Committee and May 2012
Supreme Court order.
Key Facts
The Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city for Muslims. It is mandatory
religious duty for Muslims that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by all adult Muslims
who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey and can support their family
during their absence.
The number of Hajj pilgrims from India is largest among all countries around of world. Government’s
Haj subsidy mainly included cheaper airfare and central assistance to pilgrims to reach specially-
designed Haj departure terminals at airports. It also included food and medical care. Now onwards,
proceeds from Haj subsidy will be used for educational empowerment and welfare of girls from
minority communities.
Background
The Supreme Court in May 2012 had directed that Haj subsidy should be done away gradually by
2022. The order of court reiterated Holy Quran verses (Verse 97 in Surah 3, Al-e-Imran mandates
that Hajj should be taken up only if a Muslim can afford it) and said that amount spent should be used
in education and other measures for social development of the minority community.
In accordance with the order, Union Government had constituted committee headed by former
secretary Afzal Amanullah to suggest framework for new Haj policy for 2018-22. It had submitted its
report in October 2017. The committee had recommended for gradual withdrawal of Haj subsidy. It
also had recommended to allow older Muslim women to travel to haj without male guardians.
Haj withot Mehram
Earlier, Union Government had allowed Muslim women above age of 45 to go on Haj without male
company, in a group of at least four. Earlier, women were not allowed to travel without ‘Mehram’
(husband or a male first blood relation as guardian).
Khap Panchayats can’t interfere in marriages of adults: Supreme Court
January 17, 2018
The Supreme Court held that every adult has right to marry anyone and nobody including parents,
khap panchayats or similar associations can question their choice of spouse.
It also ruled that any kind of attack and interference on such adults opting for marriage, especially
inter-caste marriage as ‘absolutely illegal’. The case has been listed for further hearing in February

2018.
SC Ruling
The apex court asked Central Government to give its response on suggestions given by senior
advocate on ways to prevent harassment and killing of young couples in name of family honour who
opt for inter-caste marriages. It also issued strict direction to government to control such attacks. It
also warned Central Government that if it does not act towards banning Khap Panchayats then, it
will step in.
Background
The SC was hearing petition filed against khap panchayats by NGO Shakti Vahini in 2010 seeking
directions to Centre and state governments for preventing honour crimes. Earlier it had sought
suggestions from Shakti Vahini, amicus curiae and khap panchayats on the issue. It also had invited
khap panchayats to hear their views before issuing order to stop them from harassing and killing
couples and women in the name of honour.
Khaps Panchayats
Khaps are caste or community organisations representing clan or group of related clans. They
frequently make pronouncements on social issues and have often landed in controversies owing to
their diktats.
Department of Commerce and CII ink MoU for development of Logistics sector
January 17, 2018
The Department of Commerce has signed MoU with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for
setting-up institutional mechanism for the development of Logistics sector in the country.
Both will work together for taking logistics sector to global levels both in terms of efficiency and
cost. They will follow Commerce Ministry’s roadmap for modernizing logistics sector and bring it at
par with the global best.
Road map
The road map aims to foster focused engagement with the industry and collaborate with the
concerned agencies including state Government’s and other related agencies. It will also undertake
mutually agreed focused studies on logistics and promote Government’s policies on logistics
Background
The Union Government has decided to reduce Logistics cost in country from the present 14% of GDP
to less than 10% by 2022. For this purpose, a concerted effort in collaboration with Central Ministries
as well as State Governments has been initiated for simplifying the regulatory processes in both
domestic and EXIM (export-import) logistics. Government also has granted infrastructure status to
number of logistics activities, which will enable them to avail cheaper and long term commercial
loans.
DAC clears procurements of assault rifles and carbines
January 17, 2018
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has
cleared procurement proposal of 72,400 assault rifles and 93,895 carbines on fast track basis for Rs
3,547 crore.
DAC also simplified ‘Make II’ procedure which prescribes guidelines to be followed to develop and
manufacture defence equipment through Indian Industry.
Procurement of assault rifles
The procurement of assault rifles aims enable the Defence Forces to meet their immediate
requirement for troops deployed on borders. They will be processed under government-to-
government route to conclude deals at the earliest. Army had decided to go for two different rifles —
import a high-tech rifle in small numbers for infantry soldiers on front lines and procure the
indigenous rifle in large numbers to meet balance requirement.
Make II procedure
The simplification of Make II procedure aims encourage participation of private sector in defence
design and production and give boost to ‘Make in India’ programme in Defence Sector. Make II
procedure prescribes guidelines to develop and manufacture defence equipment through Indian
industry.
The revised procedure will make the procedure industry friendly, with minimal government control.

It will now allow Defence Ministry to accept suo motu proposals from industry and also allow start-
ups to develop equipment for armed forces.
The minimum qualification criteria to participate in ‘Make II’ projects also was relaxed by removing
conditions related to credit rating and reducing financial net worth criteria. Now all vendors meeting
criteria will be allowed to participate in prototype development process instead of only two vendors
earlier. In addition there will be no need to submit detailed project report.
After accord of approval by DAC, all clearances will be accorded by Service Head-Quarters (SHQ)
which will also set up project facilitation teams to hand-hold the industry.
Maharashtra Government approves 1% reservation for orphans in government jobs
January 18, 2018
Maharashtra Government has approved 1% reservation for orphans in government jobs d education
for orphans in the state under general category. Decision in this regard was taken at state Cabinet
meeting Chaired by Devendra Fadnavis.
Key Facts
This reservation provision is termed as parallel reservation. It will be provided under general
category, which means government does not need to increase its caste reservation quota that has
already reached 52%. Parallel reservation means, of total jobs available under general category, 1%
will be reserved only for orphans
The reservation for orphans was needed as they do not know their caste and they cannot be included
in specific reservation category, due to which they are deprived of educational, economic and social
concessions. The recently approved reservation provision will help in the rehabilitation of orphan
kids and help to secure their future. In Maharashtra, 3,900 orphans lived in government-run
orphanages. The figure is apart from those living in private orphanages.
January 18, 2018
PM Narendra Modi, Benjamin Netanyahu inaugurate iCREATE facility
January 18, 2018
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu inaugurated
iCREATE facility at Deo Dholera Village in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. iCreate aims to develop an
ecosystem in India to generate quality entrepreneurs.
iCreate
iCreate is an independent Centre established with an objective of facilitating entrepreneurship
through blend of creativity, innovation, engineering, product design and leveraging emerging
technologies. It main purpose is foster innovation to deal with major issues such as food security,
water, connectivity, cybersecurity, IT and electronics, energy, bio-medical equipment and devices etc.
NPPA fixes retail price of 30 drug formulations
January 18, 2018
Drug price regulator National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has fixed retail price for 30
drug formulations, including those used for treatment of diabetes, bacterial infections and high blood
pressure. The prices were fixed/revised under Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO), 2013.
National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA)
NPPA is independent body under Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and
Fertilizers. It was set up in 1997. Its mandate is to fix/revise controlled bulk drugs prices and
formulations, enforce prices and availability of medicines under DPCO, 2013. It also monitors prices
of decontrolled drugs in order to keep them at reasonable levels. The regulator implements and
enforces the provisions of DPCO. It is also entrusted with task of recovering amounts overcharged by
manufacturers for controlled drugs from consumers.
Essential medicines
Essential medicines are those that satisfy the priority health care needs of the country’s population.
They are listed with reference to the levels of healthcare namely primary, secondary and tertiary.
They are generally based on the country’s disease burden, priority health concerns, affordability
concerns etc.
In India, National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) formed in 2011 decides the essential medicines.
The list is prepared by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. NPPA fixes ceiling price of
essential medicines of Schedule I under DPCO 2013.

The calculation for essential drugs is based on simple average of all medicines in particular
therapeutic segment with sales of more than 1%. In respect of medicines that are not under price
control, manufacturers are allowed to increase the maximum retail price by 10% annually.
Maharashtra becomes first state to unveil Public Cloud Policy
January 18, 2018
Maharashtra became first state in country to unveil Public Cloud Policy that virtually mandates state
government departments to shift their data storage onto cloud.
Earlier in October 2017, State Government had formed four-member committee to draft policy
framework on cloud usage, which had submitted a policy document that’s being now adopted as
public cloud policy.
Key Facts
The policy will result in additional private sector investments worth US $2 billion for cloud industry
as government is one of biggest creators and consumers of data. It will aim to generate 5 lakh jobs in
next five years.
The policy is likely to be formally set in motion through detailed government resolution. In coming
days, five to six top cloud service providers like Amazon or Microsoft will be empanelled for data
storage onto cloud.
Under the policy framework, state government will make mandatory its various departments for
storing data within country and to use public cloud in cases wherever Right to Information Act (RTI)
is applicable. Later, it will also allow for enhanced security features for private and sensitive data to
be stored on the cloud.
State Innovation and Start-up Policy
The State Cabinet headed by Chief Minister also had approved State Innovation and Start-up Policy.
Its objective is to attract Rs.5,000 crore investments in development of incubation and start-ups. It
will be applicable till 2022.
Under it, on an average three incubators in each of the 12 designated sectors and develop at least
2,000 start-ups will be established in next five years. It will result in development of at least 10 lakh
sq ft of incubation space within the state. It will provide Rs.2,500 crore for youth entrepreneurship
activities (1% of State Budget).
Under it, an establishment up to 5 years from date of its registration will be considered as start-up.
Its annual turnover must be up to Rs. 25 crore. It should be based on innovative concept, innovative
commercialisation of products and services or it can also be based on innovative production methods
and processes.
Xian smog tower: China builds world’s biggest air purifier
January 18, 2018
China has constructed Xian smog tower, an experimental air purifying tower touted to be the world’s
biggest at height of over 100 meters (328 feet) in an attempt to fight air pollution.
The tower is built in Xian in Shaanxi province and has brought positive effect on chronic smog
problem in China. It is undergoing testing by researchers at Institute of Earth Environment at
Chinese Academy of Sciences.
Xian smog tower
Xian smog tower project was announced in 2015 to find low-cost method to artificially remove
pollutants from atmosphere such as PM2.5, nitrates and sulphur dioxide which are the most harmful
to human health.
The polluted air is sucked into glasshouses of tower and is then heated up by solar energy. The hot
air then moves through multiple cleaning filters and helps in reducing air pollution. The system in
air purifier also works during winters as coatings on greenhouses enable glass to absorb solar
radiation at higher efficiency.
According to its original design, the full-sized tower will reach 500 metres (1,640 feet) high with
diameter of 200 metres (656 feet). This tower size will capture greenhouses in nearly 30 square
kilometres and will be capable of purifying the air for small-sized city.
Signficance
During the tests, the tower has managed to produce more than 10 million cubic metres (353 million
cubic feet) of clean air day since its launch. It was able to bring down the smog to moderate levels the

day when air quality was severe. However, the results were preliminary as of now. It has also
improved quality of air after observations were made over distance of 10 square kilometers in the
past few months.
10th Global Forum for Food & Agriculture held Berlin
January 18, 2018
The 10th edition of Global Forum for Food & Agriculture was held in Berlin, Germany from 18th
-20th January 2018. The theme of this year’s event is “Shaping the future of livestock – sustainably,
responsibly, efficiently”.
Indian delegation to the event is led by Union Minister of State (MoS) for Agriculture & Farmers
Welfare Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
Key Facts
The event was organised by Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection (BMEL)
in cooperation with GFFA Berlin e.V., Senate of Berlin and Messe Berlin GmbH. It also included 10th
Berlin Agriculture Ministers’ Conference. The discussions during the conference focussed on
sustainable and productive animal production among other issues.
Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA)
The GFFA is international conference that focuses on central questions concerning future of global
agri-food industry. It is world’s largest conference of agriculture ministers. It is held during
International Green Week (IGW).
It provides common platform to representatives from worlds of politics, business, science and civil
society opportunity to share ideas and enhance understanding on selected topic of current
agricultural policy.
President presents 2016 Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards
January 18, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind presented Sangeet Natak Akademi’s Fellowships (Akademi Ratna) and
Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards (Akademi Puraskar) for the year 2016 at function held at Rashtrapati
Bhavan, New Delhi.
Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards
The Sangeet Natak Akademi’s Fellowships and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards are recognised as
among most coveted national honours bestowed on performing artists as well as teachers and
scholars of performing arts in the country. They are given by Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s
National Academy of Music, Dance & Drama
Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards are given in categories of music, dance, theatre, other traditional
arts and puppetry, and for contribution and scholarship in performing arts. The award since 2003
consists of Rs. 1 lakh, a citation, an angavastram (shawl), and tamrapatra (brass plaque).
2016 list of winners
Akademi Fellows
Arvind Parikh
R Vedavalli
Ram Gopal Bajaj
Sunil Kothari
Akademi Awards 2016
Music
Hindustani Vocal Music: Padma Talwalkar
Hindustani Vocal Music: Prabhakar Karekar.
Hindustani Instrumental Music- Tabla: Arvind Mulgaonkar
Hindustani Instrumental Music- Violin: Kala Ramnath
Carnatic Vocal Music: Neela Ramgopal
Carnatic Vocal Music: K Omanakutty
Carnatic Instrumental Music – Mridangam: J Vaidhyanathan
Carnatic Instrumental Music – Violin: Mysore M Manjunath
Other Major Traditions of Music- Sugam Sangeet: Ratnamala Prakash.
Other Major Traditions of Music – Sugam Sangeet: Ahmed Hussain and Mohd Hussain.

Other Major Traditions of Music – Nata Sankirtana, Manipur: Ningthoujam Shyamchand Singh
Classical Dance
Bharatanatyam: Geeta Chandran.
Kathak Dance: Jitendra Maharaj
Kathakali: Kalamandalam Ramachandran Unnithan
Manipuri: Maisnam Kaminikumar Singh
Kuchipudi: A B Bala Kondala Rao
Odissi: Ratikant Mohapatra
Sattriya: Haricharan Bhuyan Borbayan
Chhau: Gopal Prasad Dubey
Contemporary: Anita R Ratnam
Theatre
Playwriting: Kusum Kumar
Direction: Satyabrata Rout
Direction: Bipin Kumar
Direction: Rajkamal Nayak
Acting: Gireesan V
Acting: Oinam Biramangol Singh
Acting: Mohan Joshi
Theatre Arts – Music for Theatre: Anjana Puri
Other Major Traditions of Theatre- Yakshgana: K Govind Bhat
Traditional/ Folk/Tribal Music/Dance/Theatre and Puppetry
Traditional Theatre (Kalavantulu), Andhra Pradesh: Annabattula Lakshmi, Mangatayaru and
Annabattula Leela Folk Music, Gujarat: Yogesh Gadhavi
Folk Music, Himachal Pradesh: Vidyanand Saraik
Traditional Music, Goa: Somnath D Chari
Pala, Odisha: Laxmidhar Rout
Mand, Rajasthan: Chiranji Lal Tanwar
Folk Music (chakri), Jammu & Kashmir: Gulzar Ahmad Ganie
Folk Music, Bihar: Braj Kishor Dubey
Puppetry: Prabhitangsu Das
Puppetry: Dattatreya Aralikatte
Overall Contribution/ Scholarship in the Performing Arts
Avinash Pasricha
Pappu Venugopal Rao
Government planning to set up of Cyber Warrior Police Force to tackle internet-related crimes
January 18, 2018
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided to set up Cyber Warrior Police Force (CWPF) and
Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) to tackle internet-related crimes such as cyber
threats, child pornography and online stalking. These divisions will be set up under MHA’s newly
created Cyber & Information Security (CIS) Division.
Cyber Warrior Police Force (CWPF)
The CWPF is likely to operate under National Information Security Policy and Guidelines wing of
MHA’s CIS division. It is proposed to be raised on lines of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF). So far,
there has been no decision on the CWPF’s jurisdiction, where it will derive its powers or personnel
from and whether it will be empowered to make arrests.
Background
CIS Division was created in November 2017. It has four wings, namely Security Clearance, Cyber
Crime Prevention, Cyber Security and Information Security Wings each headed by Under Secretary
level Officer. Its two divisions cybercrime and information security have already begun operations. It
is also proposed to appoint the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Deputy CISO.

MHA has already issued communique asking states/UTs to consider setting up state as well as
district cybercrime coordination cells. The State Cybercrime Coordination Cells be headed by
additional director general (ADG) or inspector-rank official, and district cybercells by a deputy
superintendent of police (DySP) or additional superintendent of police-level official. The State cyber
security cells will form foundation of centralised CWPF.
Agni-5 ballistic missile successfully test-fired
January 18, 2018
Indigenously developed long-range surface-to-surface Agni-5 ballistic missile was successfully test
fired successfully from Abdul Kalam Wheeler Island, Odisha.
It was overall fifth developmental trial test of the long-range missile carried out by Strategic Forces
Command of Indian Army to check its operational readiness. The last test of missile was conducted
in December 2016 from same test range.
Agni-5 ballistic missile
The Agni-5 is three-stage solid propellant nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM),
indigenously developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
It is about 17 metres long, 2 metres wide and has a launch weight of around 50 tonnes. It has strike
range of over 5,000 kilometres and can carry nuclear warhead of more than one tonne. Thus, it can hit
most northern parts of China and other parts of Asia, Europe and Africa. It has not yet inducted into
the Services.
Unlike other missiles of Agni series, Agni-5 is most advanced missile having new technologies
incorporated with it in terms of navigation and guidance, warhead and engine. It is also a fire and
forget missile, which once fired cannot be stopped, except by interceptor missile which only US,
Russia and Israel have.
It carries Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRV) payloads. A single MIRV
equipped missile that can deliver multiple warheads at different targets. It is also incorporates
advanced technologies involving ring laser gyroscope and accelerometer for navigation and
guidance.
Comment
After some few more trials, it will be inducted into arsenal of tri-Service Strategic Forces Command
which manages India’s nuclear arsenal. Once this missile is inducted into Services, India will join
super exclusive club of countries with ICMBs (range of over 5,000-5,500 km) alongside US, Russia,
China, France and United Kingdom.
India at present in its armoury of Agni series has Agni-1 (700 km range), Agni-2 (2000 km range,)
Agni-3 and Agni-4 (2500 km to more than 3500km range).

January 19, 2018

India to set up $350 million Solar Development Fund for solar projects
January 19, 2018
India announced setting up of $350 million Solar Development Fund for financing solar projects
under the International Solar Alliance (ISA). The fund was announced by Minister of Power and New
and Renewable Energy R K Singh at first ever ISA outreach programmes ‘International Solar Alliance
Forum’ held in Abu Dhabi’s World Future Energy Summit (WFES) 2018.
World Future Energy Summit (WFES)
WFES is an annual event dedicated to advancing future energy, energy efficiency and clean
technologies. It is hosted by Masdar, Abu Dhabi’s renewable energy company and staged at Abu
Dhabi National Exhibition Centre.
WFES includes summit, an exhibition, Project Village, Round Table Discussions, Young Future
Energy Leaders program, corporate meetings and social events. It attracts world leaders,
international policy makers, industry leaders, investors, experts, academia, intellectuals and
journalists to discuss practical and sustainable solutions to future energy challenges. It also provides
opportunity for those having interest in addressing climate change to come together to share
solutions, reach agreements and continue to make progress.
Major announcements made during WFES 2018
India signed LoIs / MoUs of 9 solar related projects which various company and bankers. It will sign
over 100 projects by April 2018 under ISA umbrella. YES Bank committed financing solar projects of
over $5 Billion. CLP and NTPC Limited announced forging partnership deal with ISA and committed
to make voluntary contribution of $1 million each to ISA fund corpus. International Energy Agency
(IEA) and Green Climate Fund (GCF) also announced entering into partnership with ISA.
International Solar Alliance (ISA)
ISA was established by the Paris Declaration as an alliance dedicated to promotion of solar energy
among its member countries. The ISA Framework Agreement entered into force in December 2017
making ISA formally treaty based International Intergovernmental Organization with headquarters
at Gurugram, India. As of now the ISA Framework Agreement has been signed by 48 countries,
Its 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. It also aims to bring
together countries with rich solar potential to aggregate global demand, thereby reducing prices
through bulk purchase, facilitating deployment of existing solar technologies at scale and promoting
collaborative solar R&D and capacity building.
Maharashtra approves Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivani Yojna to promote climate-resilient
agriculture
January 19, 2018
Maharashtra Government has approved Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivani Yojna, a Rs.4,000-crore
project aimed at promoting climate-resilient agriculture. It will be roll out in 2018-19 and continue
till 2023-24.
The Scheme has been named after social activist Nanaji Deshmukh who has worked in fields of
education, health, and rural self-reliance, and has been honoured with Padma Vibhushan.
Nanaji Deshmukh Krishi Sanjivani Yojna
The scheme will be implemented in 5,142 villages across 15 districts. Its objectives are to improve soil
quality, develop foodgrain varieties which can sustain climate variations and effect necessary
changes in the crop pattern as per the availability of water in a particular region.
Main objectives of scheme
Promote very idea of sustainable development in agricultural sector.
Eliminate the problems of ground water salinity problems.
Improve conditions of the agricultural yields to overcome the climatic changes.
Promoting the quality of the soil such that quality of food grains produced can be improved.
Cultivate new variety of grains that will more sustainable and adaptable to climatic changes.
The scheme will cover small- and medium- scale farmers, who are more vulnerable to the impact of
climate change. The total cost of project is Rs 4,000 crore, 70% of which will be borne by World Bank

while state will contribute 30% over six years
The entire project will focus on promoting climate resilient method of agriculture and cultivation
that will be monitored within various districts and villages in the state. It also strives at doubling
income of state farmers by next few years till 2022 for farmers belonging to medium and small
grades to help overcome loses.
Under it, state government will also try and take new measures to help change the pattern of
cultivation of the crop depending on the availability of the water. This will help in making the state
drought free.
India’s First Automatic Early Warning Dissemination System to come up in Odisha
January 19, 2018
India’s first automatic Early Warning Dissemination System (EWDS) will be commissioned by
March 2018 in Odisha. The project aims to establish fool-proof communication system to address
existing gaps in disseminating disaster warning up to community level.
Key Facts
The EWDS is a first-of-its-kind automatic public address system in the country. The project is being
implemented under National Cyclone Risk Mitigation Project with World Bank’s help. It will provide
Odhisa’s entire population residing on 480 km length coastline a pre-warning siren in event of
occurrence of natural disasters like tsunami or cyclone. It will help to warn vast population of state
residing along its coast from State headquarters through loud sirens from towers installed at 122
locations in six coastal districts in event of occurrence of natural disasters like a tsunami or cyclone.
The districts are Balasore, Bhadrak, Kendrapara, Jagatsinghpur, Puri and Ganjam.
How EWDS Works?
The EWDS comprises certain devices inbuilt into it like as Satellite-Based Mobile Data Voice
Terminals (SBMDVT), Digital Mobile Radio (DMR), Mass Messaging System (MMS) and Universal
Communication Interface (UCI) which help in inter-operability among different communication
technologies.
Whenever, there is slightest hint of disasters like tsunami or cyclone or any other natural calamity, it
will broadcast warning to entire state just by press of button from control room in state capital
Bhubeneswar. With press of button, loud sirens will go off at same time and warning sound will
heard in localities to radius of 1.5 km. With this pre-warning, EWDS will help people to move to safer
places before government agencies start evacuation.
Mangalajodi Ecotourism Trust of Odisha wins prestigious UNWTO Award
January 19, 2018
Mangalajodi Ecotourism Trust in Odisha has won prestigious United Nations World Tourism
Organisation (UNWTO) Award for Innovation in Tourism Enterprise at 14th UNWTO Awards
ceremony held in Madrid, Spain.
The award was given in recognition of Mangalajodi’s business model that is both economically viable
and environmentally sustainable based on principles of community ownership and Eco Tourism.
Key Facts
Mangalajodi Ecotourism Trust is community owned and managed venture promoted by RBS
Foundation India and Indian Grameen Services on banks of Chilika Lake in Odisha
The villagers of Mangalajodi were once associated with poaching of birds near Chilika Lake but now
they stand as true defenders of wildlife in the region. The change was mainly due to a coordinated
effort in implementing an awareness campaign on importance of preserving natural species and
benefits associated with wildlife tourism.
The change has soared numbers of birds from 2000 (during peak unsustainable hunting) to over
three lakh in the region. Moreover other visible impacts this change has resulted in increasing
revenue through ecotourism, sharp fall in poaching incidents and increasing support of villagers.
Chilika Lake
Chilika Lake is largest coastal lagoon or brackish water lake in India and Asia and second largest lagoon in the world. It is
located at mouth of Daya River, flowing into Bay of Bengal. It spread over Puri, Khurda and Ganjam districts of Odisha
state on east coast of India, covering an area of over 1,100 km2
It is largest wintering ground for migratory waterfowl found anywhere on Indian sub-continent. It is one of hotspot of
biodiversity in country and some rare, vulnerable and endangered species listed in IUCN Red List of threatened Animals.

It was designated as the first “Ramsar Site” of India on account of its rich bio-diversity and ecological significance.
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)

UNWTO is United Nations agency responsible for promotion of responsible, sustainable and
universally accessible tourism. It is leading international organization in field of tourism. It promotes
tourism as driver of economic growth, inclusive development and environmental sustainability. It
offers leadership and support to sector in advancing knowledge and tourism policies worldwide. It is
headquartered in Madrid, Spain. Its membership includes 156 countries, 6 territories and over 500
affiliate members
Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan crosses 1 crore mark
January 19, 2018
The Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA) has crossed one crore mark in antenatal
check-ups. It was launched in 2016 to ensure comprehensive and quality antenatal checkups to
pregnant women across country. It has provided quality antenatal checkups to pregnant women on
the 9th of every month.
Key Facts
The scheme is helping in making safe pregnancy to become social movement in country. It also is
successful in reaching out to difficult and remote areas. Since its launch, more than 25 lakh check-
ups were conducted in high priority districts identified by Health Ministry for focussed attention.
Maharashtra has reported largest number of check-ups among non-empowered action group states
and Rajasthan has reported largest number of check-ups among the empowered action group states.
More than 4,800 private sector doctors have pledged to provide voluntary service under PMSMA.
Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan
It is scheme implemented by Health Ministry to provide free health check-ups to pregnant women at
government health centres and hospitals in both rural and urban areas. The national programme
aims to provide pregnant ladies free ante-natal services (ANC) and required treatment for free on 9th
of every month.
Objectives
Provide healthy life to the pregnant women.
Lowering the maternity mortality rate.
Making pregnant women aware of their health issues and diseases.
Making sure safe delivery and healthy life of the baby.
Beneficiary: The scheme is applicable only for pregnant women in their pregnancy period of 3 to 6
months.
Facilities: The scheme provides all kinds of medical checkups completely free to pregnant
women. These checkups take place at medical centres, government and private hospitals and private
clinics across the country. These free of cost tests includes blood pressure, sugar level, weight,
haemoglobin test, blood test and screening.
Colour Coding: Women will be marked differently using different colour stickers based on their
health problems so that doctors can easily detect the problem.Different colour stickers will be Red
Sticker for Serious patients, Blue Sticker for High blood pressure and Yellow Sticker for Other
diseases.
Sudeep Lakhtakia appointed as new DG of National Security Guard
January 19, 2018
Senior IPS officer Sudeep Lakhtakia was appointed as new Director General of National Security
Guard (NSG). He will succeeded SP Singh, who retired from the post.
Lakhtakia is a 1984-batch IPS officer of Telangana cadre. He is currently serving as special DG of
Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF).
National Security Guard (NSG)
NSG is a Federal Contingency Deployment Force under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). It was
raised in 1984, with a view to protect states against internal disturbances and terrorism. It is not
categorised under uniform nomenclature of Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF).
It has special forces mandate and its core operational capability is provided by Special Action Group
(SAG) drawn from Indian Army. NSG personnel are often referred as Black Cats because of black

dress and black cat insignia worn on their uniform.
The NSG is trained to conduct counter terrorist task to including counter hijacking tasks on land,
sea, and air, Bomb disposal and Post Blast Investigation (PBI) and Hostage Rescue missions. It is
intended for use only in exceptional situations and not meant to take over functions of State Police
Forces or other Para Military Forces.
Anandiben Patel appointed as Governor Madhya Pradesh
January 19, 2018
President Ramnath Kovind has appointed former Gujarat Chief Minister Anandiben Patel as
Governor of Madhya Pradesh. She will replace Gujarat governor Om Prakash Kohli who is holding
additional charge of office of Governor of Madhya Pradesh.
Anandiben Patel
Born: November 21, 1941
Career Profile: She is former school teacher, a gold-medalist in MSc and also winner of President’s
Medal.
She was elected to Rajya Sabha in 1994. She was the cabinet minister for education in the BJP-led
government in Gujarat from 2002 to 2007.
She also had held important portfolios of urban development, revenue and disaster management and
was earlier in charge of education ministry, steering successfully some of key projects of then CM
Narendra Modi, including one for boosting female literacy.
She had succeeded Narendra Modi as first woman chief minister of Gujarat, when he was elected as
Prime Minister of India following BJP’s victory in 2014 Lok Sabha polls. She had resigned from post
of CM in 2016.
Constitutional provisions of Governor
Governor is constitutional head of state.
Article 153: It says that there shall be Governor for each state. 7th Constitutional Amendment Act,
1956 facilitated the appointment of the same person as a governor for two or more states.
Article 156: Governor is appointed by President and hold office during the pleasure of President. It
should be also noted that this article also mentions tenure of Governor. In this regard it says that
Governor shall hold office for the term of 5 years from date he enters upon his office.
India joins Australia Group export control regime
January 19, 2018
India was admitted as the 43rd member of the Australia Group, an informal bloc (group) of countries
that keeps a tight control over exports of substances used in making of chemical weapons.
Significance
The inclusion will help to raise India’s stature in the field of non-proliferation, though it is not
signatory to Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT) and help in acquiring critical technologies. India is first
South Asian nation to become its full-time member of Australia Group. It is also expected to
strengthen India’s bid to enter 48-member Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG).
Comment
With its admission into Australia Group, India is now part of three of the four key export control
groups in world dealing with non-proliferation. This includes Missile Technology Control Regime
(MTCR), an informal and voluntary partnership among 35 countries that regulates trade in sensitive
equipment and technologies to ensure there is no proliferation of missile and unmanned aerial
vehicle technology capable of carrying payloads above 500kg for more than 300km. India had joined
it in June 2016.
India had joined Wassenaar Arrangement, which is also an informal grouping of 42 countries,
exercising control over the export of dual-use goods and technologies in December 2017.
Now, NSG, which controls the export of sensitive nuclear technologies and equipment, with the aim
of preventing nuclear weapons’ proliferation is only export control group that India is not part of.
China has repeatedly blocking India’s entry in NSG. Significantly, China is not member of Wassenaar
Arrangement, MTCR and Australia Group.
India’s entry into three of four export control regimes burnishes its credentials i.e. a reference to
country’s position that it has scrupulously adhered to rules governing non-proliferation of sensitive

technologies and equipment.
Australia Group
It is multilateral export control regime (MECR) and informal group that works to counter spread of
materials, equipment and technologies that could contribute to development or acquisition of
chemical and biological weapons (CBW) by states or terrorist groups through harmonisation of
export controls. It was established in 1985.
Coordination among participant countries of Australia Group helps them to fulfil their obligations
under Chemical Weapons Convention and the Biological and Toxin Weapons Convention to the fullest
extent possible. It has now has 43 members. China, Pakistan, Iran, North Korea are not its members.
January 20, 2018
TRAI recommends allowing mobile services during air travel
January 20, 2018
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has recommended allowing mobile telephony and
Internet services for passengers during air travel in country through both satellite and terrestrial
network.
TRAI’s recommendation comes on request of Department of Telecom over proposal to introduce
voice, data and video services over Indian airspace for domestic, international and overflying flights
in Indian air space.
TRAI recommendations
Both Internet and Mobile Communication on Aircraft (MCA) service should be permitted as In-Flight
Connectivity (IFC) in the Indian airspace. The MCA services should be permitted with minimum
3000 meters height restriction in Indian airspace for its compatibility with terrestrial mobile
networks.
Flexibility to IFC service providers: There should be flexibility to IFC service providers for mobile
services in terms of use of technology and frequencies inside aircraft cabin consistent with
international standards, provided no harmful interference is caused.
Onboard Wi-Fi: Internet services through Wi-Fi onboard should be made available when electronic
devices are permitted to be used only in-flight or airplane mode and announcement regarding this
should be made after boarding is completed and the aircraft is about to taxi.
IFC Service Provider: It should be created for IFC services at annual licence fee of Rs. 1 only initially,
after entering into an arrangement with telecom licence holder having appropriate authorisation.
IFC service provider should be permitted to use either INSAT systems (Indian Satellite System or
foreign satellite capacity leased through Department of Space) or foreign satellites outside INSAT
systems in the Indian airspace.
Gateway Deployment: It should be in India for an effective mechanism to lawfully intercept and
monitor in- cabin Internet traffic while aircraft is in Indian airspace. The onboard Internet traffic
must be routed to Satellite Gateway on Indian soil. Routing of traffic through satellite gateway in
India should be imposed regardless of whether the satellite in question is an Indian satellite system
or not.
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
TRAI is an independent regulator of telecommunications business in India. It was established in 1997
through Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997. Its mandate is to regulate telecom services
and deliver fair and transparent environment for fair competition in telecom market. TRAI also fixes
or revises the tariffs for telecom services in India.
2018 to be observed as National Year of Millets
January 20, 2018
Government has approved 2018 as National Year of Millets to boost production of the nutrient-rich
millets and the sunrise agri industry involved in it. Earlier in November 2017, India had forwarded
proposal to United Nations (UN) for declaring year 2018 as ‘International Year of Millets’.
Significance
Observation of Year of Millets will help in promotion of production and consumption of millets will
substantially contribute in fight against targeted hunger and mitigate effect of climate change in
long run. Popularizing millets will also benefit future generations of farmers as well as consumers.

Millets are smart food and good for consumers, farmers and planet multiple and has untapped uses
such as food, feed, biofuels and brewing.
Millets
Millet is a common term to categorize small-seeded grasses that are often termed nutri-cereals or
dryland-cereals. It mainly includes sorghum, ragi, pearl millet, small millet, proso millet, foxtail
millet, barnyard millet, kodo millet etc. They are adapted to harsh environment of semi-arid tropics.
They require low or no purchased inputs, thus they are backbone for dry land agriculture.
Benefits of Millets
Nutritional Superiority: Millets are nutritionally superior to wheat and rice owing to their higher
levels of protein with more balanced amino acid profile, crude fibre and minerals such as Iron, Zinc,
and Phosphorous. It provides nutritional security and act as shield against nutritional deficiency,
especially among children and women.
Health Benefits: Pellagra (niacin deficiency), Anaemia (iron deficiency), B-complex vitamin deficiency
can be effectively tackled with intake of less expensive but nutritionally rich food grains like millets.
It can also help tackle health challenges such as obesity, diabetes and lifestyle problems as they are
gluten free and also have low glycemic index and are high in dietary fibre and antioxidants.
Income and livelihood Source: Millets are important staple cereal crop for millions of small holder
dryland farmers. They offer nutrition, resilience, income and livelihood for farmers even in difficult
times. They have multiple untapped uses such as food, feed, fodder, biofuels and brewing. Thus,
millets are Smart Food as they are Good for the Farmer and Good for Planet.
Resilient of Climate Change: Millets are photo-insensitive and resilient to climate change. They are
hardy, resilient crops that have low carbon and water footprint. They can withstand high
temperatures and grow on poor soils with little or no external inputs. In times of climate change they
are often last crop standing and thus are good risk management strategy for resource-poor marginal
farmers.
Mauritius was largest source of FDI in India in 2016-2017: RBI
January 20, 2018
According to Census on Foreign Liabilities and Assets of Indian Direct Investment Companies
2016-17 released by Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Mauritius was largest source of foreign investment
(FDI) in India.
The census yields carry comprehensive information on market value of foreign liabilities and assets
of Indian companies arising on account of FDI, ODI and other investments.
Key Facts
Mauritius was largest source of FDI in India (21.8% share at market value) followed by USA, UK,
Singapore and Japan. Singapore (19.7%) was major ODI destination, followed by Netherlands,
Mauritius, and US.
18,667 companies had participated in census, of them 17,020 had FDI/overseas direct investment
(ODI) in their balance sheets in March 2017. 96% of responding companies were unlisted in March
2017 and most of them had received only inward FDI.
Unlisted companies had higher share of FDI equity capital vis-a-vis listed companies. Further, over
80% of 15,169 companies that reported inward FDI were subsidiaries of foreign companies (single
foreign investor holding over 50% of total equity).
The manufacturing sector accounted for nearly half of total FDI at market prices, information and
communication services (ICTS) and financial and insurance activities were other major sectors that
attracted FDI. Total sales, including exports, of foreign subsidiaries in India increased by 18.7%
during 2016-17 whereas their purchases, including imports, increased by 20.1%.
Government launches National CSR Data Portal & Corporate Data Portal
January 20, 2018
The Union Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has launched National CSR Data Portal & Corporate
Data Portal for bringing accountability and transparency for corporate India.
The portals aim to provide easy accessibility to general public and also ensure high level of
compliance. It will also help in institutionalising and consolidating the CSR activities.
National CSR Data Portal
The portal will capture information on Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activities carried out by

eligible companies, filed on MCA21 registry in their financial statements. It will contain all filed
information that can help to generate pre-defined reports with respect to expenditure across states,
districts and development sectors.
It will also provide feedback on projects to be given by registered users. Moreover, the open access to
data will help researchers and also improve quality of data filed by companies, as well as involve
intended beneficiaries in giving valuable feedback to companies.
Corporate Data Portal
The portal aims at making all financial and non-financial information of companies available in user-
friendly format to general public. It will also have facility to generate pre-defined reports and also
customised reports. The portal will enable greater transparency and creation of tools for stronger
Corporate Governance.
Significance
These portals are expected to bring 100% transparency in corporate governance by making public
over 4-crore filings of nearly 1.2 million companies. They will also promote corporate transparency
and accountability to public at large. They are also expected to become platforms for learning and
sharing of ideas and information. They will also facilitate social audit of CSR projects and bring
together CSR contributors, implementers and beneficiaries and align CSR activities with national
development goals.
Government launches Liveability Index to rate 116 Indian cities
January 20, 2018
The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban affairs (MoHUA) launched the Liveability index to rate 116
Indian cities.
Liveability index is tool that aims to measure quality of life in 99 smart cities, capital cities and those
with a population of over one million. It will be funded by the World Bank and ranking of these cities
is expected to be ready by June 2018.
Key Facts
The index is set of indicators to assess the liveability standards in cities. It will measure the quality of
life in 116 major cities including capital cities and those with population over one million. It will assess
cities on comprehensive set of 79 parameters. Marks scored will decide the quantum of incentive.
These 79 parameters (57 core indicators and 22 supporting indicators) are based on four broad
pillars: physical (weightage 45%), institutional (25%), social (25%) and economic (5%).
These parameters includes local governance, education, employment, social infrastructure, health,
safety, physical infrastructure such as housing, availability of open spaces, security, land use, energy,
availability of water, solid waste management, pollution, etc.
IPSOS Research Private Limited in alliance with Athena Infonomics India Private Limited and
Economist Group Limited were selected for assessing the liveability indices in 116 cities. They were
selected through an international bidding process under World Bank-funded Capacity Building for
Urban Development (CBUD) program. This assessment will be conducted along with Economic
Intelligence Unit of The Economist, a London-based weekly that has already developed a liveability
ranking for 140 cities globally.
Significance
The rating will help cities attain a liveable city status, get them more investments and improve
tourism. It will also serve as a knowledge base for taking policy decisions and for planning. The index
marks shift to data driven approach to urbanisation and promote competitive spirit among cities.
These indicators are organised in 15 distinct categories, designed for measuring various institutional,
social, economic and physical aspects that affect quality of life of citizens and determine the
liveability of city.
MeitY launches Cyber Surakshit Bharat initiative
January 20, 2018
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched Cyber Surakshit
Bharat initiative to strengthen cybersecurity ecosystem in India in line Government’s vision for a
‘Digital India’. It was launched in association with National e-Governance Division (NeGD) and
industry partners.

Cyber Surakshit Bharat
Cyber Surakshit Bharat is first public-private partnership of its kind. It will leverage the expertise of
the IT industry in cybersecurity. The founding partners include leading IT companies such as
Microsoft, Intel, WIPRO, Redhat and Dimension Data. Its knowledge partners include Cert-In, NIC,
NASSCOM and FIDO Alliance and premier consultancy firms Deloitte and EY.
Objective: Spread awareness about cybercrime and building capacity for safety measures for Chief
Information Security Officers (CISOs) and frontline IT staff across all government departments.
Operations: It will be operated on three principles of awareness, education and enablement. It will
include an awareness program on importance of cybersecurity. It will also include a series of
workshops on the best practices and enablement of the officials with cybersecurity health tool kits to
manage and mitigate cyber threats.
Training programmes: It will conduct series of training programmes across country in the next six
months. It will be attended by CISOs and technical officials from central government, state
governments and UTs, PSBs, PSUs and defence forces, defence PSUs and technical arms of Air Force,
Army and Navy.
Government announces 9 new Smart Cities
January 20, 2018
Union Minister of Housing and Urban affairs Hardeep Singh Puri has announced a new batch of 9
smart cities under Smart City Mission. With the addition of these 9 smart cities in the fourth round,
the total cities picked up under Smart City Mission have reached 99.
Key Facts
The nine cities include three from Uttar Pradesh –Moradabad, Bareilly and Saharanpur, Bihar Sharif
(Bihar), Silvassa (Dadra and Nagar Havelli), Erode (Tamil Nadu), Daman and Diu, Itanagar (Arunachal
Pradesh) and Kavaratti (Lakshadweep). The selected nine cities have proposed an investment of Rs
12,824 crore. This will impact 35.3 lakh persons living in these areas.
The total proposed investment in 99 cities will be to the tune of Rs 2.03 lakh crore. As on January
2018, 189 projects worth Rs. 2237 crore were completed and another 2,948 projects worth Rs. 1.38
lakh crore are in various stages of implementation.
Background
The Smart City Mission is flagship scheme of Union Government that will cover 100 cities and its
duration is five years (2015-16 to 2019-20). The focus of mission is on sustainable and inclusive
development and set examples which can be replicated in other parts of the city and other cities of
the country.
Under the scheme, each city will get Rs.500 crore (Rs. 100 crore per year) from the Centre for
implementing various projects. Centre is going to spent Rs. 48,000 crore over five years. States will
contribute matching fund of Rs. 48,000 crore from their internal resources or through market
borrowing and through private sector.
The selection of the cities was based on scores of cities for carrying out urban reforms in areas
including sanitation and governance. Cities that score highest were picked for the project, to be
implemented over a 10-year period.
There are 10 core infrastructure elements to be undertaken under Smart City Mission viz. adequate
water supply; assured electricity supply; efficient urban mobility and public transport; sanitation,
including solid waste management; affordable housing, especially for the poor; robust IT connectivity
and digitalization; good governance, especially e-Governance and citizen participation; sustainable
environment; safety and security of citizens, particularly women, children and the elderly; and health
and education.
Mercedes-Benz first to launch locally-made BS-VI-compliant car
January 20, 2018
German auto major Mercedes-Benz has unveiled India’s first BS-VI-compliant S Class car produced
at its Pune facility. The BS-VI-compliant S Class car was unveiled more than two years ahead of
Government’s deadline of April 2020 for switching to new BS-VI emission norms.
Key Facts
BS-VI-compliant S Class can run on BS-IV fuel, which will bring down NOx emissions by 68% and PM
by 82%. This will lower the CO2 burden by 13% and fuel demand by 10%. This will pave way for other

car manufacturers to introduce their vehicles which are compliant with new emission regulation
Bharat Stage Norms
Bharat stage (BS) emission standards are emission standards instituted by Central Government to
regulate the output of air pollutants from internal combustion engine equipment, including motor
vehicles. The standards and the timeline for implementation are set by Central Pollution Control
Board (CPCB) under Ministry of Environment & Forests and climate change. These standards are
based on European regulations were first introduced in 2000.
BS-VI
The Union Government in October 2016 had decided to skip one stage and migrate to BS-VI directly
from BS-IV from April 2020 to fight the growing pollution. At present, all new vehicles being
registered are BS- IV-emission compliant. By switching to BS-VI, India will join league of US, Japan
and European Union, which follow Euro Stage VI emission norms.
Implications of BS-VI standard on environment
BS-IV fuels contain 50 parts per million (ppm) sulphur, while BS-V and BS-VI grade fuel will have 10
ppm sulphur. It will also bring down NOx emissions from diesel cars by 68% and 25% from petrol
engine cars. Cancer causing particulate matter emissions from diesel engine cars will also come
down by a phenomenal 80%.
Website Accessibility Project launched to make 100 websites accessible to persons with disabilities
January 20, 2018
The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment launched Website Accessibility Project to make 100
websites various State Governments/UTs accessible to persons with disabilities (Divyangjans) under
Accessible India Campaign. It was launched by Union Minister for Social Justice and Empowerment
Thaawarchand Gehlot on the occasion of ‘National Conference on Improving Accessibility’.
Website Accessibility Project
The Department of Divyangjan had initiated ‘Website Accessibility Project’ for State
Governments/UTs under Accessible India Campaign through ERNET India, an autonomous scientific
society under Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) to make total 917 websites
accessible. The accessible websites are those into which Persons with Disabilities can perceive,
understand, navigate and interact with web and also contribute to web.
Accessible India Campaign
Accessible India Campaign (Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan) is nationwide campaign that aims to make
barrier free environment for persons with disabilities all over the country for safe, dignified life of
Persons with Disabilities. It aims to enable persons with disabilities to gain universal access, equal
opportunity for development, independent living and participation in an inclusive society in all
aspects of life. The campaign is implemented by Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment and is in
line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) to which India is a
signatory.
January 21-22, 2018
Explained: Office of profit
January 21, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind on the recommendation of Election Commission of India (ECI) has
disqualified 20 Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) MLAs from Delhi, citing that they held offices of profit. In
2016, the ECI had issued show cause notices to 27 AAP MLAs from Delhi who held offices as
parliamentary secretaries, after petition was filed seeking their disqualification.
What is ‘office of profit’?
Office of profit is a position in government which cannot be held by Member of Legislative Assembly
(MLA) or Member of Parliament (MP). The post can yield salaries, perquisites and other benefits. It
has not been defined in Constitution or Representation of the People Act, 1951.
But different courts have interpreted it as position with certain duties that are more or less of public
character. However, legislator cannot be disqualified from either Parliament or state assembly for
holding any office. It can be done only incase of holding: an office; office of profit; office under union
or state government; office exempt by law from purview of disqualificatory provisions. All four
conditions have to be satisfied before MP and MLA can be disqualified.
Basic criteria to disqualify an MP or MLA

According to Articles 102(1)(a) and 191(1)(a) of Constitution, legislators (MP or MLA) can be barred
from holding office of profit under Central Government or state government as it can put them in
position to gain financial benefit. They can be disqualified incase they are being of unsound mind,
undischarged insolvent and not being Indian citizen or for acquires citizenship of another country.
Under the RPI, 1951 too, holding an office of profit is grounds for disqualification.
Purpose of including ‘office of profit’ for disqualification
Makers of Constitution wanted that legislators (MP or MLA) should not feel obligated to Executive in
any way, which can influence them while discharging legislative functions. In other words, they
should be free to carry out her duties without any kind of governmental pressure.
How do EC/ courts decide office of profit cases?
In March 2006, President APJ Abdul Kalam had disqualified Jaya Bachchan of form Rajya Sabha with
retrospective effect from July 2004 for holding an office of profit as chairperson of UP Film
Development Council.
The Supreme Court (SC), in Jaya Bachchan case (2006) disqualifying her from Rajya Sabha had held
that office of profit is relevant if office is capable of yielding profit or pecuniary gain and not whether
person actually obtained a monetary gain.
It had held that if office carries with it or entitles holder to any pecuniary gain other than
reimbursement of out of pocket or actual expenses, then office will be office of profit for purpose of
Article 102 (1)(a). However, if person acquires contract or licence from government to perform
functions, which government would have itself discharged, will not be held guilty of holding an office
of profit.
Issue of parliamentary secretaries
Prime Ministers and Chief Ministers usually appoint parliamentary secretaries from their own
parties who are MPs or MLAs assisting Minister in their performing their duties.
West Bengal, Telangana, Karnataka, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Punjab and
Manipur have had similar incidents of parliamentary secretaries as office of profit. In West Bengal,
Telangana and Punjab, the respective High Courts had called appointments of parliamentary
secretaries “unconstitutional” and struck down the appointments. The Supreme Court also had
struck down Assam Parliamentary Secretaries (Appointment, Salaries, Allowances and Miscellaneous
Provisions) Act, 2004 in July 2017.
Om Prakash Rawat appointed New Chief Election Commissioner
January 21, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind has appointed Election commissioner Om Prakash Rawat (64) as new
Chief Election Commissioner. He will succeed Achal Kumar Joti who has retired from post.
Moreover, President also appointed former finance secretary Ashok Lavasa as Election
commissioner. Both will have tenure of six years in office or till he or she attains the age of 65 years,
whichever is earlier.
Om Prakash Rawat
Om Prakash Rawat is 1977-batch IAS officer from Madhya Pradesh cadre. He was appointed to
Election Commission in August 2015. He has held several important portfolios at Centre and state
level during his long bureaucratic career.
Prior to his appointment as Election Commissioner, he had had retired as Secretary, Ministry of
Heavy Industries and public enterprises. He had earlier also served as director in defence ministry in
1993. During this tenure, he was deputed to South Africa in May, 1994, as UN election observer to
oversee first post-apartheid elections.
He has also served as principal secretary to Babu Lal Gaur, the then Chief Minister of Madhya
Pradesh from 2004 to 2006. He received Prime Minister’s award for excellence in Public
Administration for his initiative “recognition of forest rights in 2010.
Background
ECI is permanent and independent constitutional body established directly by Constitution of India
to ensure fair and fair elections in the country. It is multi member body and currently has three
members including Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).
They all are appointed by the President. They hold office for term of six years or until they attain age

of 65 years, whichever is earlier. The service conditions and tenure of office of Chief Election
Commissioner and Election Commissioners are determined by an act of parliament titled The Chief
Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Conditions of Service) Act, 1991.
The CEC and election commissioners have equal power and receive equal salary, allowances and
other perquisites, which are similar to judge of Supreme Court. In case of difference of opinion
amongst CEC and Election Commissioner, matter is decided by Commission by majority.
Bharat Ke Veer anthem launched in New Delhi
January 22, 2018
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has launched official anthem for “Bharat Ke Veer” sung
and composed by singer Kailash Kher. Bharat Ke Veer is an initiative with corpus fund to help the
families of paramilitary troopers killed in the line of duty. So far, it has raised Rs. 12.93 crore for kin
of paramilitary personnel killed in the line of duty
Bharat ke Veer
Bharat ke Veer is web portal and mobile application launched by MHA. It is IT based platform to
enable willing donors to contribute towards family of braveheart who sacrificed his life in line of
duty. The portal is supported by National Informatics Centre (NIC) and powered by State Bank of
India (SBI).
The amount so donated through it will be credited to the account of ‘Next of Kin’ of those Central
Armed Police Force or Central Para Military Force soldiers. To ensure maximum coverage, a cap of
Rs. 15 lakh is imposed on donation and donors will be alerted if amount exceeds, so they can choose
to divert part of the donation to another account or the corpus.
Bharat Ke Veer corpus will be managed by committee made up of eminent persons of repute and
senior Government officials. The committee will decide to disbursement of fund equitably to
braveheart’s family on need basis.
President felicitates 112 first ladies
January 22, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind has felicitated 112 exceptional women achievers at Rashtrapati Bhawan
in New Delhi. These women achievers ‘FIRST LADIES’ are those who are first to set milestone of
achievement in their respective fields. This ‘First Ladies’ is second leg of the ‘100 Women Achievers’
campaign of the Ministry.
Key Facts
These 112 women were selected after extensive research process by Ministry of Women & Child
Development (WCD). They are those who have been first in any field like first woman judge, first
woman porter, first woman to head missile project, first para-trooper, first Olympian among others.
Their felicitation aims to inspire other women to break the glass ceiling and do women of India
proud.
Among those who were honoured by President include
Bachendri Pal: first Indian woman to reach the Mount Everest summit;
Deepa Malik: first woman to win a medal at the Paralympics;
Priya Jhingan: First Lady Cadet to join the Indian Army;
P V Sindhu: Olympic silver medallist
Nicole Faria: winner of the Miss earth title;
Karnam Malleswari: Olympic medal winning weightlifter Karnam Malleswari
Anshu Jamsenpa: First Indian woman to scale Mt Everest for fifth time.
Chhavi Rajawat: India’s first woman Sarpanch
Diana Edulji: First ODI captain of the first ever Indian Women’s Cricket Team.
Background
Every year on March 8 (Women’s Day), WCD Ministry honours Nari Shakti Puruskars to those
women who have contributed to society but have remained unsung. These awards are conferred by
President of India at Rashtrapati Bhawan. The WCD Ministry in 2015 had collaborated with Facebook
to recognise ‘100 Women Achievers’ who have excelled in diverse sectors of public work. It started to
recognise different ways those women who have broken the glass ceiling and ventured into unusual

fields.
OPV Vijaya: Indian Coast Guard patrol vessel launched
January 22, 2018
The second indigenously built offshore patrol vessel (OPV) named Vijaya built by Larsen and Toubro
(L&T) Shipyard for Indian Coast Guard (ICG) was launched at Kattupalli Shipyard, Tamil Nadu. It is
expected to be inducted into service by September 2018 after trials on the equipment.
OPV Vijaya
The OPV is 98 metre long and 14.8 metres wide with gross tonnage of 2,100 tonnes. It has endurance
of 5,000 nautical miles with cruising speed of 12-14 knots which can be increased to 26 knots. The
ship is fitted with two units of diesel driven engines of 9,000 kw each with low fuel consumption.
It is equipped with state-of art radar, navigational and communication system. It will be utilised for
day and night patrol and surveillance, anti-terrorist, anti-smuggling operations and coastal security.
It is fitted with 30 mm automatic gun with Fire Control System (FCS) and two units of 12.7 mm gun
with FCS.
Its navigation and communication system are capable of operating in tropical conditions. It also has
capacity to carry one integral twin engine helicopter which will further enhance operational,
surveillance, search and rescue capability. It will be manned by 102 crew, including 14 officers.
Background
The Defence Ministry as part of rapid expansion of Indian Coast Guard to strengthen maritime
security mechanism had signed Rs 1,432 crore contract with L&T Shipyard at Kattupalli to
indigenously design and build seven OPVs. The first OPV named Vikarm as part of the deal was
launched in October 2017. It was country’s first-ever such defence craft to be built in private
shipyard. It will be inducted into service by March 2018 after completing necessary trials on fitted
equipment and machineries.
ONGC to acquire Government’s entire 51.11% stake in HPCL
January 22, 2018
The Union Government and state-run oil explorer ONGC clinched deal for acquisition of
government’s 51.11% stake in Hindustan Petroleum Corporation (HPCL) for a consideration of Rs.
36,915 crore. The deal will be closed by end of January 2018. Earlier empowered panel headed by
finance minister Arun Jaitley had approved price bid for acquisition. The all-cash deal will help
government boost its non-debt capital receipts and meet disinvestment target (Rs 72,500 crore).
Significance
Through this acquisition, ONGC is gaining midstream and downstream presence and access to
marketing network. This acquisition will make ONGC India’s first vertically integrated oil major, having
presence across value chain in sector. The integrated entity will have advantage of having enhanced
capacity to bear higher risks, take higher investment decisions and neutralising impact of volatility
of global crude prices. As for HPCL, deal will help it in further leveraging synergy at various levels of
vertical value chains as part of integrated oil and gas group. It also will enable ONGC to mitigate risk
of crude price volatility.
Background
In 2017-18 Union Budget, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had announced that state-run oil companies
will be merged to create ‘oil major’. Following this Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCAE) in
July 2017 had granted ‘in-principle’ approval to the strategic sale of HPCL to ONGC. This also
included change in management control, but allowed HPCL to retain its brand as subsidiary of the
national oil explorer.
Market Share
During 2016-17, HPCL had turnover of Rs 2,13,489 crore and profit after tax of Rs 6,502 crore. It
markets around 35.2 million tonne of petroleum products accounting for market share of about
21%and has around 15,000 fuel retail outlets. ONGC contributes around 70% of Indian domestic
production of crude oil and natural gas.
Manipur Government launches health assurance scheme for poor & disabled people
January 22, 2018
Manipur Government has launched the Chief Minister-gi Hakshelgi Tengbang (CMHT), a health
assurance scheme for the poor and disabled people. It was launched by Manipur Chief Minister N

Biren Singh.
The CMHT scheme will provide cashless treatment to poor at government hospitals, health centres
and other empanelled selected private hospitals.
Chief Minister-gi Hakshelgi Tengbang (CMHT) Scheme
The scheme will provide insurance cover up to Rs 2 lakh per eligible family in treatment of seven
critical identified critical ailments – cardiovascular diseases, neurological conditions, kidney
ailments, liver ailments, cancer, neo-natal diseases and burns per year. The beneficiaries will be
identified from Socio Economic Caste Census (SECC). They may get themselves enrolled for scheme
with help of ASHA workers at kiosks opened in nearby PHCs, CHCs and District Hospitals.
Significance
The CMHT Scheme will have convergence with Government of India programme like PMs Jana
Aushadhi Programme and Free Diagnostic Programme. It will be truly IT platform driven scheme.
Along with Chief Minister-gi Sotharabashing gi Tengbang (CMST) scheme, state government is able
to provide two most noble social security schemes to its people.
Government launches Protocol for Star Rating of Garbage-Free Cities
January 22, 2018
The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) has launched the ‘Protocol for Star
Rating of Garbage-Free Cities’ in Goa. It has been developed under Swachh Bharat Mission – Urban
for rating cities on 7-star rating system based on multiple cleanliness indicators for solid waste
management.
Key Facts
Indicators: These include Door to Door garbage Collection, source segregation, sweeping, scientific
processing of waste, bulk generator compliance, scientific land filling, construction and demolition
management, plastic waste management, dump remediation & citizen grievance redressal system
etc.
Rating: Cities will be rated as 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 7 star based on their compliance with protocol
conditions specified for each of rating. City will be given rating of 3 star or above only after it is
declared ODF (Open Defecation Free).
Cities can self-declare themselves as 1-star, 2-star or 4-star provided that MoHUA carry out
additional verification through independent third party to certify cities as 3-star, 5-star or 7-star.
Cities need to get themselves recertified every year to retain their star-status.
Significance: It provides stakeholders with single metric to rate a city’s cleanliness, rather than
separately evaluating multiple factors which contribute to city’s overall cleanliness and garbage free
status. It will assess many cities for having higher stars as compared to only one city being “Cleanest
city” under Swachh Survekshan.
January 23, 2018
Scientist S. Somanath takes charge as Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre
January 23, 2018
Noted scientist S Somanath took charge as Director of Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC),
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. He succeeded K Sivan, who was recently appointed as Chairman of
ISRO.
Prior to his elevation, he was Director of Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC), the lead centre
responsible for liquid engines and stages for all launch vehicles and satellite programs of ISRO,.
S Somanath
S Somanath had joined ISRO in 1985 and was team leader for Integration of PSLV during its early
development phase and during first flight of PSLV and successful second flight PSLV-D2. He also was
Associate Director (Projects) of VSSC and also Project Director of GSLV Mk-III launch vehicle. He has
received ‘Merit Award” and ‘Performance Excellence award’ from ISRO and ‘Team excellence award’
for GSLV Mk-III development.
Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC)
VSSC is major space research centre of ISRO, under the Department of Space (DOS). It is mandated to
focus on rocket and space vehicles for India’s satellite programme. It is located in
Thiruvananthapuram, in the Indian state of Kerala. VSSC has emerged as one of the main research
and development establishments within ISRO.

It was established in 1963 and it has its beginnings as Thumba Equatorial Rocket Launching Station
(TERLS) in 1962. It was later renamed in honour of Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, father of the Indian space
program. VSSC is an entirely indigenous facility working on development of sounding rockets,
Rohini and Menaka launchers, and ASLV, PSLV, GSLV and GSLV Mk III families of launch vehicles.
First International Dam Safety Conference held in Thiruvananthapuram
January 23, 2018
The first International Dam Safety Conference-2018 was held in Kovalam, Thiruvananthapuram
(Kerala) from January 23-24, 2018.
It was inaugurated by Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan and was presided over by Union
Minister of State for Water Resources Arjun Ram Meghwal.
Key Facts
This Conference is fourth in series organized under aegis of ongoing Dam Rehabilitation and
Improvement Project (DRIP). It was organized jointly by Central Water Commission (CWC), Kerala
Water Resources Department (KWRD), National Institute of Technology, Calicut (NITC), and College
of Engineering, Trivandrum (CET).
As many as 550 delegates from over 20 countries, including US, Switzerland, Spain and Australia
took part in the conference. Moreover, seven dam safety manuals developed under DRIP were also
released for implementation during the conference.
Dam Health and Rehabilitation Monitoring Application (DHARMA)
A software programme known as Dam Health and Rehabilitation Monitoring Application (DHARMA)
was also launched to document authentic asset and health information pertaining to the large dams
in the country. DHARMA is a web tool to help dam owners to digitise all dam-related data effectively,
store, monitor and take appropriate actions to ensure need-based rehabilitation.
Background
CWC is managing Dam Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (DRIP) with the financial assistance
from World Bank to rehabilitate about 225 dams in India. The earlier conferences organized in years
2015, 2016 and 2017 and had received overwhelming response in terms of professional participation,
technical papers contributed and participation by Indian and overseas organizations in the
exhibition.
These conferences had brought together dam professionals and experts in various inter-related
disciplines from within India and around world to discuss, reflect and share technology and
experience in addressing dam safety issues and strategies to address them.
India ranked 62nd on WEF’s Inclusive Development Index 2018
January 23, 2018
India was ranked at 62nd place among emerging economies on Inclusive Development Index
(IDI-2018) released by World Economic Forum (WEF).
Norway again remained world’s most inclusive advanced economy, while Lithuania again topped list
of emerging economies. India’s position is much below China (26th) and Pakistan (47th).
Inclusive Development Index (IDI)
Inclusive Development Index (IDI) measures progress of 103 economies on three individual pillars –
growth and development; inclusion; and inter-generational equity. It has been divided into two parts.
The first part covers 29 advanced economies and second 74 emerging economies. The index takes
into account the living standards, environmental sustainability and protection of future generations from
further indebtedness. The index also has classified countries into five sub-categories in terms of five-
year trend of their overall Inclusive Development Growth score — receding, slowly receding, stable,
slowly advancing and advancing.
Highlights of IDI-2018
Top 5 advanced economies: Norway followed by Ireland, Luxembourg, Switzerland and Denmark.
Only two advanced economies have shown ‘advancing’ trend. Small European economies dominate
top of index, with Australia (9) the only non-European economy in the top 10. Of the G7 economies,
Germany (12) ranks highest followed by Canada (17), France (18), UK (21), US (23), Japan (24) and Italy
(27).
Top-five most inclusive emerging economies: Lithuania, Hungary, Azerbaijan, Latvia and Poland.

BRICS economies: Russia was ranked at 19th, followed by China (26), Brazil (37), India (62) and South
Africa (69).
Rich and poor countries alike are struggling to protect future generations, as it cautioned political
and business leaders against expecting higher growth to be panacea for social frustrations, including
those of younger generations who have shaken politics of many countries in recent years.
India related facts: It was ranked 60th among 79 developing economies in IDI-2017. India was among
ten emerging economies with ‘advancing’ trend, despites its low overall score. Of three pillars that
make up index, India was ranked 72nd for inclusion, 66th for growth and development and 44th for
inter-generational equity. India’s neighbours: China (26th), Nepal (22), Bangladesh (34), Sri Lanka
(40) and Pakistan (47th).
India ranked 81st on Global Index of Talent Competitiveness
January 23, 2018
India was ranked 81st among 118 countries in 2017 Global index of talent competitiveness (GTI) list.
India has improved its position from 92nd last year. The index measures ability of countries to
compete for talent i.e. how countries grow, attract and retain talent. It is produced by global business
school INSEAD in partnership with Adecco Group and Tata Communications.
Key Facts
Top Countries: Switzerland is followed by Singapore and US. European countries dominate top
ranks, with 15 out of the top 25 places. Developed, high-income countries are still the global talent
champions while Zurich, Stockholm and Oslo take the top spots in the GTI cities’ ranking.
BRICS countries: India’s ranking was last among the five BRICS countries in 2017. China has moved
up to 43rd now, Russia to 53rd, South Africa to 63rd and Brazil to 73rd position.
India faces serious risk of worsening brain drain. In terms of formal Education, India ranks 67th and
in Lifelong Learning it ranks 37th. In terms of pool of Global Knowledge Skills (63rd) is solid
compared with other emerging markets. India also has plenty of room for improvement is in
minimising brain drain while achieving brain gain by luring back some of its talented diaspora
members as iit ranks 98th in the Attract pillar and in retaining its own talent it ranks 99th.
Indian economy to grow at 7.4% in 2018: IMF
January 23, 2018
In its latest World Economic Outlook (January 2018 update) released by International Monetary Fund
(IMF), India is projected to grow at 7.4% of its gross domestic product (GDP) in 2018 as against
China’s 6.8%.
The projection makes India fastest growing major economy following slowdown in 2017 due to
demonetisation and implementation of goods and services tax (GST).
Key Facts
IMF has projected that global economy is expected to grow 3.9% this year, faster than 3.7% forecast
earlier in October 2017. Some 120 economies, accounting for three quarters of world GDP, have seen
pickup in growth in year-on-year terms in 2017. It is the broadest synchronised global growth
upsurge since 2010.
IMF projected India’s GDP growth rate at 7.4% in 2018 and 7.8% in 2019. China, during the same
period, is expected to grow at 6.8% and 6.4% respectively. The aggregate growth forecast for
emerging markets and developing economies for 2018 and 2019 remain unchanged, with marked

differences in outlook across regions.
Emerging and developing Asia will grow at around 6.5% over 2018-19, broadly the same pace as in
2017. The US will grow 2.7% and 2.5% in 2018 and 2019, respectively, higher by 0.4 and 0.6% point
than earlier estimate.
World Economic Outlook (WEO)
The report contains analysis and projections of integral elements of IMF’s surveillance of economic
developments and policies in its member countries and of developments in global financial markets
and economic system. It is usually prepared twice a year and is used in meetings of the International
Monetary and Financial Committee.
India inks $120 million loan agreement with World Bank to fund improved water supply in
Uttarakhand
January 23, 2018
India has signed $120 million loan agreement with multilateral lending agency World Bank to help
increase access to improved water supply services in peri-urban areas in Uttarakhand. The
agreement was signed between Government of India, Government of Uttarakhand and World Bank
Board.
Key Facts
The loan amount will be used for Uttarakhand Water Supply Program for Peri-Urban Areas to help
state to increase water supply coverage as well as ensure sustainable water supply service delivery in
peri-urban areas. The program will develop and implement service-oriented and efficient water
supply policy for peri-urban areas, strengthen current monitoring and evaluation systems. It will
also provide dedicated incentives for preparation and adoption of water supply ‘master-plans’ in
peri-urban areas.
Background
Population growth and urbanization has led to rise of significant peri-urban areas mostly in the plain
regions of Uttarakhand. They are still classified as rural but are effectively urban in nature in terms
of density of population, structure of economy and aspirations of the people.
It has resulted in actual disconnect between formal classification of these populated areas and their
actual nature, including provision of water supply, along with unique governance, infrastructure, and
service delivery challenges. From 2001 to 2011, the state’s urban population has grown by nearly 42%,
which is substantially higher than national average of 32%. State has made significant strides in
piloting and implementing various innovative approaches in water supply and sanitation services
but in peri-urban areas have not been prime focus.
First NIIF investment: To set up $3-billion platform with DP World
January 23, 2018
The National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) has made its first investment by partnering
with DP World to create $3-billion investment platform for ports, terminals, transportation and
logistics businesses in India.
The platform will invest in opportunities in ports sector and beyond sea ports into areas such as river
ports and transportation, port-led special economic zones, freight corridors, inland container
terminals, and logistics infrastructure including cold storage.
Significance
Efficient logistics and cargo movement are critical components for continued growth and
development of Indian economy and particularly the manufacturing sector. The platform will reduce
the cost of moving cargo between port and origin and destination.
Background
In October 2017, Government had secured investment commitment of up to $1 billion from Abu
Dhabi Investment Authority (ADIA). It was first institutional investor in NIIF Master Fund and
shareholder in Fund’s investment management company — the National Investment and
Infrastructure Limited. Apart from ADIA, four domestic institutional investors also be joined the
NIIF Master Fund including ICICI Bank, HDFC Group, , Kotak Mahindra Life and Axis Bank.
National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIFF)
NIIF was set up in December 2015 to catalyse funding into the country’s infrastructure sector. It has
been registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India as a Category II Alternate

Investment Fund.
It has a targeted corpus of Rs 40,000 crore to be raised over the years — 49% of it will be funded by
government at any given point of time. The remaining 51% will be raised from domestic and global
investors, including international pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, multilateral/bilateral
investors.
It has been set up as a fund of funds structure with aim to generate risk adjusted returns for its
investors alongside promoting infrastructure development. Its Governing Council us chaired by
Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has already been set up to act as an advisory council to the NIIF.
India’s richest 1% corner 73% of wealth generation: Oxfam Survey
January 23, 2018
According to latest survey released by the international rights group Oxfam, richest 1% in India
cornered 73% of the wealth generated in country in 2017. The survey shows worrying picture of
rising income inequality.
It was released as part of report titled ‘Reward Work, Not Wealth’, revealing how global economy
enables wealthy elite to accumulate vast wealth even as hundreds of millions of people struggle to
survive on poverty pay.
Highlights of Report
Globally 82% of wealth generated in 2017 worldwide went to 1%, while 3.7 billion people that account
for poorest half of population saw no increase in their wealth. Year 2017 saw unprecedented increase
in number of billionaires, at rate of one every two days.
Billionaire wealth has risen by average of 13% year since 2010. It was six times faster than the wages
of ordinary workers, which have risen by a yearly average of just 2%. Women workers often find
themselves at bottom of the heap and nine out of 10 billionaires are men.
In India, 67 crore population comprising the population’s poorest half saw their wealth rise by just
1%. Wealth of India’s richest 1% increased by over Rs 20.9 lakh crore, an amount equivalent to total
budget of central government in 2017-18.
India’s top 10% of population holds 73% of the wealth and 37% of India’s billionaires have inherited
family wealth. They control 51% of the total wealth of billionaires in the country. There are only four
women billionaires in India and three of them inherited family wealth.
It will take 941 years for minimum wage worker in rural India to earn what top paid executive at a
leading Indian garment firm earns in year.
The report has urged Indian government to ensure that country’s economy works for everyone and
not just the fortunate few. It asked government to promote inclusive growth by encouraging labour-
intensive sectors that will create more jobs; effectively implementing the social protection schemes
and investing in agriculture.
January 24-25, 2018
Bharat Parv to be held at Red Fort on Republic Day
January 24, 2018
Cultural extravaganza Bharat Parv will be held at the Red Fort in Delhi as part of the Republic Day
celebrations. The prime objective of the event is to promote rich cultural diversity of country,
generate a patriotic mood and to ensure wider participation of general public.
Key Facts
The Bharat Parv event includes display of Republic Day Parade Tableaux, Performances by Armed
Forces Bands, Cultural Performances from different regions of country, Multi-Cuisine Food Court,
Craft Mela and Photo Exhibition by Directorate of Advertising and Visual Publicity (DAVP).
It will also include cultural performances choreographed in Folk and Tribal Dances and Music
arranged through North Zonal Cultural Centre as well as performances by cultural troupes from
different States and Union Territories.
The Food Court will have stalls set up by States/UTs. Moreover, National Association of Street
Vendors of India (NASVI) will showcase street food from different regions as well as by Institutes of
Hotel Management and ITDC. The Craft Mela will showcase the diverse handicrafts of the country
with 50 stalls. There will also be Theme State Pavilions where each State will showcase their
strengths along with tourism products.

Tamil Nadu CM Edappadi K Palanichamy receives UNESCO Award

January 24, 2018
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palanichamy received UNESCO Award of Merit awarded to
the iconic Srirangam Ranganathaswamy temple in Tiruchirapalli.
The award of merit was awarded by UNESCO Asia Pacific region for the reconstruction activities
undertaken in temple without in least affecting its traditional splendour and Vedic rituals.
Sri Ranganathaswamy Temple
It is considered as one of the most important of the 108 main Vishnu temples (Divyadesams). It is
Vaishnava temple built in Tamil or Dravidian style of architecture. It is located on an islet formed by
twin rivers: Coleroon and Cauvery. The temple complex is situated in sprawling ground of more than
156 acres.
The temple and 1000 pillared hall were constructed in the Vijayanagar period (1336–1565) on the site
of an older temple. It has seven prakaras or enclosures. Its Gopuram also called as “Raja Gopuram is
the biggest gopuram in Asia. It annually hosts 21-day festival during the Tamil month of Margazhi
(between December and January) which attracts over 1 million visitors.
UNESCO Asia-Pacific awards for cultural heritage conservation programme
The UNESCO Asia-Pacific awards for cultural heritage conservation programme is aimed at
acknowledging efforts taken to restore and conserve historical structures without affecting their
heritage value. The awards are classified under four categories – Awards of Distinction, Awards of
Merit, Award of Excellence and Award for New Design in Heritage Context.
India Ranked 177 in Environmental Performance Index (EPI)
January 24, 2018
India has been ranked 177 among 180 countries in the Environmental Performance Index (EPI) –
2018. This index has been developed by Yale University and Columbia University in collaboration
with the World Economic Forum and the Joint Research Centre of the European Commission. This
report has been released on 23 January, 2018 on the sidelines of World Economic Forum meet in
Davos.
Top and Bottom Five Countries in 2018 EPI
Top 5 countries are Switzerland, France, Denmark, Malta and Sweden
To bottom countries are Nepal, India, Congo, Bangladesh, Burundi
About the Index
Environmental Performance Index (EPI) is calculated on the basis of data gathered from 24 individual
metrics of environmental performance. These 24 individual metrics are then aggregated into a
hierarchy that begins with 10 major environmental issues categories.
1. Air Quality (household solid fuels and PM2.5 exposure)
2. Water & Sanitation
3. Heavy Metals (lead exposure)
4. Biodiversity & Habitat
5. Forests (tree cover loss)
6. Fisheries
7. Climate & Energy (CO2, Methane and Black Carbon Emissions)
8. Air Pollution (SO2 and NOx emission)
9. Water resources (wastewater treatment)
Agriculture (sustainable practice)
The above 10 environmental issue categories are then divided into two policy objectives viz.
Environment health and Ecosystem Vitality. The overall EPI is based on a country’s performance in
these 10 issue categories and two policy objectives. High rank in the EPI shows long-standing
commitments to protecting public health, preserving natural resources and decoupling greenhouse
gas (GHG) emissions from economic activity.
The 2018 Report Key Notes About India
The report has ranked India as fourth worst country worldwide in curbing environmental pollution. India has
slipped from 141st position in 2016 report.
The low rank of emerging economies including China (120) and India (177) indicates strain population pressures

and rapid economic growth impose on the environment.
As per the report, substantial populations still suffer from poor air quality, most notably in India, China, and
Pakistan (169).
Report also notes that the low scores on the EPI are indicative of the need for national sustainability
efforts on a number of fronts, especially cleaning up air quality, protecting biodiversity and reducing
GHG (green house gas) emissions.
8th National Voters’ Day observed
January 25, 2018
The Election Commission of India (ECI) celebrated 8th National Voters’ Day across nation for
enhanced participation of citizens in electoral process.
The objective of the Day is to increase enrollment of voters, especially of newly eligible ones. It also
spreads awareness among voters regarding effective participation in electoral process. The theme
for this years National Voters’ Day is ‘Accessible Elections’ to spread awareness among voters
regarding effective participation in the electoral process.
Key Facts
Various events and national level function were held in New Delhi. President Ram Nath Kovind
presented away awards for best electoral practices to District Collectors, Superintendents of Police
and other functionaries involved in election management. Media Award 2017 was also given in
function. To mark the day, Election Commission and Facebook also launched new feature on the
social media Facebook to send reminder to users aged 18 years and above to take the pledge to vote.
Background
National Voters’ Day was initiated in 2011 to commemorate the foundation day of the Election
Commission of India (ECI) which came into existence on 25th January 1950. This day is also utilized
to spread awareness among voters regarding effective participation in the electoral process.
ECI is permanent and independent constitutional body established directly by Constitution of India
to ensure fair and fair elections in the country. It is multi-member body and currently has three
members including Chief Election Commissioner (CEC).
Narayanan appointed Director of ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre
January 25, 2018
Senior scientist Dr V Narayanan has assumed charge as Director of ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion
Systems Centre (LPSC). He succeeded S Somanath who was appointed as Director of Vikram
Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC).
Prior to this appointment, he was Associate Director of LPSC and was guiding liquid propulsion
activities of ISRO and was instrumental in finalising the Liquid Propulsion Roadmap of ISRO for the
next 20 years.
Dr V Narayanan
Narayananhad joined ISRO in 1984 and since then has functioned in various capacities. He is rocket
propulsion expert and outstanding scientist, guiding ISRO team that designed 200 tonne thrust Lox-
Kerosene Semi Cryogenic Rocket Engine.
He had played crucial role in successful development of Cryogenic Upper Stage (CUS) and made it
operational for GSLV Mk II vehicle when India was denied complex Cryogenic Propulsion
Technology. He also had played vital role in successful launch of GSLV Mk III vehicle in its maiden
attempt in 2017 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SHAR), Sriharikota.
As Project Director for C25 Cryogenic Project, he had led team that successfully developed
indigenous C25 Cryogenic Stage powered by 20 tonne thrust Cryogenic Engine using Liquid Oxygen
and Liquid Hydrogen propellant combination.
He is Fellow of Indian National Academy of Engineering (FINAE) and Member of Space Propulsion
Committee of International Astronautical Federation (IAF) and member in various national and
international professional bodies.
He has published large number of technical papers in national and international journals.
Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre (LPSC)
LPSC is research and development centre functioning under ISRO. It is engaged in development of
liquid and cryogenic propulsion stages for launch vehicles and auxiliary propulsion systems for both

launch vehicles and satellites. It is headquartered Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala and functions under
Department of Space.
It has developed liquid propellant stages for PSLV, control systems for SLV-3, PSLV, ASLV and GSLV,
satellite propulsion systems including those for INSAT and IRS. It also has developed indigenous
cryogenic upper stage for Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV) which was successfully
test fired by ISRO in August 2007.
It has two units located at Valiamala, in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, and Bengaluru, Karnataka. It is
augmented by ISRO’s Propulsion Complex at Mahendragiri of Tamil Nadu.
Government to increase number of ‘AMRIT’ pharmacy stores 4 times
January 25, 2018
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has announced to increase number of AMRIT pharmacy
stores by four times by end of 2018 from the existing 111 outlets in bid to make low-cost medicines
more accessible.
So far, 52 lakh patients have been benefited by buying discounted drugs (60 to 90% less than market
price) from AMRIT (Affordable medicine and reliable implants for treatment) stores and have saved
over Rs. 267 crore. The total maximum retail price of medicines sold off these 111 AMRIT stores was
Rs. 486 crore but their sale price was Rs 219 crore.
AMRIT scheme
The AMRIT (Affordable medicine and reliable implants for treatment) scheme aims to reduce
expenditure incurred by patients on treatment of cancer and cardio vascular (heart) diseases to make
health care affordable for poor. Its intended beneficiaries are patients suffering from cancer and
heart diseases (non-communicable diseases).
Under it, retail outlets in the name of AMRIT pharmacy are opened to sell drugs for cancer and heart
diseases at highly discounted rates on market rates. The project is implemented by government-
owned HLL Lifecare Ltd (HLL) which is deputed to establish and run AMRIT chain of pharmacies
across the country.
These drugs and implants under the scheme will be sold based upon authentic prescriptions from
doctors. At the AMRIT outlets, 202 cancer and 186 cardio-vascular drugs will be available at reduced
rate of 60 to 90% compared to market rates.
Government announces 4 new schemes to promote young scientists
January 25, 2018
The Ministry of Science & Technology has announced four new schemes to promote young scientists
and researchers in the country. They are Teacher Associateship for Research Excellence (TARE) Scheme,
Overseas Visiting Doctoral Fellowship, Distinguished Investigator Award (DIA) and AWSAR
(Augmenting Writing Skills for Articulating Research).
The schemes primarily aim at early recognition and reward to young talent in the field of science.
They focus on youth to empower, recognize and motivate them.
TARE Scheme
It aims to tap latent potential of faculty working in state universities, colleges and private academic
institutions who are well trained but having difficulty in pursuing their research due to varied
reasons including lack of facilities, funding and guidance. Up to 500 TAs (Teacher Associateships)
will be supported under this scheme.
This scheme facilitates mobility of such faculty members to carryout research in well-established
public funded institution such as IITs, IISc, IISERS and other National Institutions (NITs, CSIR, ICAR,
ICMR labs, etc) and Central Universities located preferably nearer to institution where faculty
member is working.
Overseas Visiting Doctoral Fellowship
The scheme was instituted to enhance international mobility of Indian research students having
potential to create talented pool of globally trained manpower. It will provide opportunity for
research students to gain exposure and access to top class research facilities in academia and labs
across the world.
It will offer opportunities for up to 100 PhD students admitted in Indian institutions for gaining
exposure and training in overseas universities /institutions of repute and areas of importance to
country for 1 year period during their doctoral research. The selected fellows will be paid a monthly

fellowship amount, one-time contingency/preparatory allowances to cover visa fee, airport transfer
charges, medical insurance etc.
Distinguished Investigator Award (DIA)
The scheme was initiated to recognize and reward Principal Investigators (PIs) of Department of
Science and Technology (DST) projects that have performed remarkably well. It aims to reward best
PIs of completed projects and also motivate ongoing PIs to perform exceedingly well.
It seeks to effectively improve productivity of research undertaken and overall efficiency of research
ecosystem. It will be one-time career award devised to specifically cater to younger scientists who
have not received any other prestigious awards or fellowships. The award carries a fellowship and
optional research grant for 3 years, based on peer review of project proposal submitted.
AWSAR (Augmenting Writing Skills for Articulating Research) Scheme
The scheme aims to encourage, empower and endow popular science writing through newspapers,
magazines, blogs, social media, etc. by young PhD Scholars and Post-Doctoral Fellows during course
of their studies and research pursuits. It also seeks to tap tremendous potential of young scientists to
popularize & communicate science and also to inculcate scientific temperament in the masses.
The scheme also carries monetary incentive to each of 100 best entries from PhD scholars in year
along with Certificate of Appreciation besides getting the story published/projected in mass media.
In addition, three leading stories from selected hundred will be also awarded cash prize. Further,
twenty entries will be selected from articles submitted exclusively by Post-Doctoral Fellows relating
to their line of Research for monetary incentive and most outstanding story to be given a cash prize
of Rs.1,00,000/-.
UDAN Phase-II: 325 routes awarded; 40% for North East, hills
January 25, 2018
The Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has awarded 325 air routes under the second phase of
government’s flagship UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam naagrik) regional connectivity scheme. Around 40%
or 129 of 325 air routes were awarded to newly created category of ‘priority areas’ that include
Jammu and Kashmir, Northeastern and hill states, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep
Islands,
Key Facts
The routes under phase-II were awarded to 15 airlines and helicopter operators after bidding process.
These include major domestic airlines such as SpiceJet, IndiGo, Jet Airways and Air India subsidiary
Alliance Air and four helicopter operators — Heligo Charters, Heritage Aviation, Pawan Hans, and
Skyone Airways
Airports to be connected under phase-II: Total 78 airports i.e. 36 served airports, 13 underserved
airports and 29 unserved airports will be connected. In addition, 31 helipads/ heliports will be
connected through Helicopters in priority areas.
Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Outflow: These proposed routes will get VGF estimated at Rs. 487
crores per annum for fixed wing operations and Rs. 130 crores for Helicopter operations per annum
in the Priority areas. The government provides VGF or subsidy for 50% of seats set aside for being
offered at discounted rates by airlines and all seats up to 13 passenger seats for helicopters.
UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam naagrik) Scheme
The UDAN RCS (Regional Connectivity Scheme) was launched in October 2016 to develop the
regional aviation market. It is vital component of the National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP), 2016.
It also aims to make flying affordable by providing connectivity to un-served and under-served
airports of the country through revival of existing airstrips and airports so that persons in regional
towns are able to take affordable flights.
It is applicable on flights covering distance between 200 km and 800 km with no lower limit set for
hilly, remote, island and security sensitive regions. It seeks to reserve a minimum number of UDAN
seats i.e. seats at subsidized rates and also cap fare for short distance flights. It has unique market-
based model to develop regional connectivity. It has Viability Gap Funding (VDF) mechanism to meet
the VGF requirements under the scheme. Airports Authority of India (AAI) is implementing agency of
the scheme.

SARAS PT1N: Upgraded indigenous transport aircraft makes successful maiden flight
January 25, 2018
SARAS PT1N, the new upgraded version of indigenous transport aircraft SARAS developed by
National Aeronautics Laboratory (NAL) successfully made its maiden flight in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
The aircraft took off from HAL airport, Bengaluru and flew for about 40 minutes at the maximum
height of 8500 feet at the speed of 145 knots.
The primary objective of the test was to evaluate system performance that will be collected in about
20 flights. The data collected from this shall be used to freeze the design of production version
aircraft.
SARAS PT1N
SARAS PT1N is a 14-seater passenger aircraft designed and developed by CSIR-NAL, a frontline
aerospace research laboratory. The production version aircraft will have 19-seat capacity.
The indigenous aircraft development is seen as culmination of efforts of team CSIR-NAL, IAF-ASTE,
Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC), HAL and Directorate General of
Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA).
Background
The aircraft programme is named after Indian crane Saras. It was first conceptualised in the 1990s to
establish short-haul civil aviation market. The original design of the plane included maximum take-
off weight of 6,100kg and a maximum payload of 1,232kg.
The first prototype of the plane had made its first flight in May 2004. SARAS PT1N is upgraded
version of plane, after second prototype of SARAS that had crashed during test flight killing all three
crew members on board in March 2009.
MIS portal for Anganwadi Services Training Programme launched
January 25, 2018
The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has launched Management
Information System (MIS) portal for Anganwadi Services Training Programme.
The portal has been developed by Ministry of WCD in collaboration with National Informatics Centre
(NIC) for submission of applications and estimates by NGOs for carrying out Anganwadi Services
(ICDS) Training through Anganwadi Workers Training Centres (AWTC) and Middle-Level Training
Centres (MLTC).
Key Facts
The phase 1 of portal will enable NGOs to submit proposals to respective states/UTs which in turn
will process proposals and recommend requirement of funds for running programme. On this
request, Central government will further examine proposal and release funds. It will ensure that
funds are released timely and reach beneficiaries for training purpose.
Anganwadi Services Training Programme
The programme comes under Umbrella Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme which
is centrally sponsored scheme. The training to Anganwadi Workers (AWWs), Anganwadi Helpers
(AWHs) and Supervisors at AWTCs and MLTCs is part of the Anganwadi Services.
The AWTCs and MLTCs are run either by respective state governments/UT administrations or by
NGOs under supervision of states/UTs. The Union Government releases funds required for
implementation of scheme to states/UTs.
Government launches Rapid Reporting System for the Scheme for Adolescent Girls
January 25, 2018
The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has launched beneficiary module (i.e.
Phase -1) of Rapid Reporting System (RRS), a web based on line monitoring for Scheme for Adolescent
Girls (SAG).
The RRS portal will facilitate monitoring of SAG and take corrective measures by ensuring faster
flow of information, accurate targeting of beneficiaries and reduction of leakages. It has been
developed by Ministry of WCD in collaboration with National Informatics Centre (NIC).
Scheme for Adolescent Girls
The scheme aims at providing them nutritional support, motivating out of school girls to go back to
formal schooling or skill training under its non-nutrition component. It also provides nutritional
support and girls are also equipped with information on health, hygiene and guidance on existing

public services.
It is centrally sponsored scheme implemented using platform of Integrated Child Development
Services (ICDS) Scheme. Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) are focal point for delivery of services. Ministry
of WCD is implementing scheme in selected 508 districts across country.
It is implemented through Centre and State share in ratio of 50:50, for nutrition component 60:40 for
rest of activities for State/UTs with legislation, 90:10 for NE and 3 Himalayan States and 100% for
UTs without legislative assemblies.
January 26, 2018
India, Vietnam sign two agreements
January 26, 2018
India and Vietnam have signed two Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) to enhance cooperation
in field of information and broadcasting and space cooperation.
The MoUs were signed following bilateral meeting between PM Narendra Modi and his visiting
counterpart Nguyen Xuan Phuc ahead of the India-Asean Commemorative Summit in New Delhi.
Vietnam is a key pillar in India’s Act East Policy and strategic partner in South East Asia.
MoUs singed are
MoU to enhance cooperation in field of information and broadcasting: It aims to enhance
cooperation in the field of information and broadcasting, based on principles of equality and
reciprocity pursuant to their national laws and regulations.
MoU on space cooperation: It is implementation arrangement between ISRO and National Remote
Sensing Department of Vietnam. It seeks to establish tracking and data reception station and data
processing facility in Vietnam under ASEAN India Space Cooperation.
It will define framework and conditions of cooperation for establishment of facility to provide Indian
remote sensing satellite data over ASEAN region. It will enable remote sensing applications, which
include natural resources management, ocean development and disaster management to ASEAN
member states.
Chinese scientists for first time successfully clone monkeys
January 26, 2018
Chinese scientists for first time have successfully cloned two identical long-tailed macaques
(monkeys), named Zhong Zhong and Hua Hua using same technique that produced Dolly sheep two
decades ago. This development makes them world’s first primates – the order of mammals that
includes monkeys, apes and humans – to be cloned from non-embryonic cell.
Key Facts
These two identical long-tailed macaques were cloned using process called somatic cell nuclear
transfer (SCNT), which involves transferring the nucleus of cell, which includes its DNA, into egg
whose nucleus is removed.
Since cloned Dolly sheep was born in Scotland in 1996 using SCNT, scientists have successfully used
this technique to clone more than 20 other species, including cows, pigs, dogs, rabbits, rats and mice.
Similar work in primates earlier, had always failed, leading some scientists to wonder if primates
were resistant.
Chinese Scientists were successful to clone macaques using modulators to switch on or off certain
genes that were inhibiting embryo development. Their technique worked only when nuclei were
transferred from foetal cells, rather than adult ones, as was the case with Dolly. In all, it took 127 eggs
to produce two live macaque births.
Significance
Genetically identical animals are useful in research because confounding factors caused by genetic
variability in non-cloned animals can complicate experiments. This development breaks technical
barrier for the cloning of primate species, including humans. It will make possible to study diseases
in populations of genetically uniform monkey and test new drugs for a range of diseases before
clinical use.
Concerns
The research underscores important role at the cutting-edge of biosciences, where scientists have at
times pushed ethical boundaries but calls for debate on what should or should not be acceptable

practice in primate cloning.
Somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT)
SCNT is a laboratory technique for creating an ovum with donor nucleus. In it, nucleus containing the organism’s DNA
of somatic cell (a body cell other than sperm or egg cell) is removed and rest of cell discarded. The nucleus of somatic
cell is then inserted into enucleated egg cell which reprograms somatic cell nucleus by the host cell. The egg, now
containing nucleus of somatic cell, is stimulated with a shock and will begin to divide forming blastocyst (an early stage
embryo with about 100 cells) with almost identical DNA to original organism. It can be used in embryonic stem cell
research, regenerative medicine i.e. “therapeutic cloning.” It can also be used as first step in process of reproductive
cloning.
ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit issues Delhi Declaration

January 26, 2018
The ASEAN-India Commemorative Summit was held in New Delhi to celebrate the 25th anniversary
of the establishment of sectoral dialogue between two sides under the theme of “Shared Values,
Common Destiny”.
It issued joint statement titled Delhi Declaration after the plenary session focusing on counter-
terrorism, identity security, military cooperation, and bilateral financial support.
India and 10 ASEAN countries for first time mentioned cross-border movement of terrorists and
made commitment to counter the challenge through close cooperation as part of the declaration.
Key Highlights of Delhi Declaration
Strengthening relations: Called for strengthening and deepening ASEAN-India Strategic
Partnership for mutual benefit, across the whole spectrum of political-security, economic, socio-
cultural and development cooperation.
Terrorism: Deepen cooperation in combating terrorism in all its forms and manifestations, violent
extremism and radicalisation through information sharing, law enforcement cooperation and
capacity building under existing ASEAN-led mechanism.
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 strengthening cooperation to combat other transnational crimes,
including people smuggling, trafficking in persons, illicit drug trafficking, cybercrime, and piracy and
armed robbery against ships.
Political and Security Cooperation: Reaffirm importance of maintaining and promoting peace,
stability, maritime safety and security, freedom of navigation and overflight in the region.
It calls for other lawful uses of seas and to promote peaceful resolutions of disputes, in accordance
with universally recognised principles of international law, including 1982 United Nations
Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Economic Ties: Both sides reaffirmed to work to further strengthen ASEAN-India economic
relations, including through full utilisation and effective implementation of ASEAN-India Free Trade
Area. They also called for swift conclusion to comprehensive and mutually beneficial Regional
Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) in 2018 to further trade ties. They also look forward to
establish ASEAN-India Trade and Investment Centre.
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.
ASEAN
ASEAN is 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.
It consists of 10-member countries- Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar,
Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. It was established on August 8, 1967 through ASEAN
declaration (also known as Bangkok Declaration). Its secretariat is located in Jakartaa, Indonesia.
Ministry of Road Transport & Highways inks MoU with IL&FS for construction of Zojila tunnel
January 26, 2018
The Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has inked MoU with IL&FS Transportation
Networks Ltd for construction of the 14.150 km long, 2-lane bi-directional Zojila Tunnel in Jammu &
Kashmir.
This would be India’s longest road tunnel and longest bi-directional tunnel in Asia. On completion,
the tunnel will provide all weather connectivity between Srinagar, Kargil and Leh.
Zojila Tunnel Project
The project aims at construction of 14.150 km long two lane bidirectional single tube tunnel with
parallel 14.200 km long egress tunnel between Baltaland Minamarg in J&K with total capital cost of
Rs. 6808 crore. The duration for construction of the project is 7 years.
Its main objective is to provide all whether connectivity to strategically important Leh region in J&K
which at moment is limited to 6 months in year because of snow on passes and threat of avalanches.
It will be first of its kind tunnel in such geographical area. It will have all modern technical safety
arrangements such as cut and cross ventilation system, two axial fans, uninterrupted power supply,
fully transverse ventilation system, CCTV monitoring, variable messaging boards, traffic logging
equipment, tunnel radio, emergency telephone system etc.
Comment
The project has strategic and socio-economic importance and will be instrument for development of
economically backward districts in J&K. It will also bring about all round economic and socio-
cultural integration of these regions. This project, along with other ongoing projects like 6.5 km long
Z-Morh tunnel at Gagangir will ensure safe, fast and cheap all weather connectivity between
Kashmir and Ladakh. They will also increase employment potential for local labourers for project
activities. It will also boost employment as local businesses will get linked to national market and
region will receive round the year tourist traffic.
IAF Corporal Jyoti Prakash Nirala posthumously conferred with Ashok Chakra
January 26, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind awarded India’s highest peacetime military decoration Ashok Chakra (31)
posthumously to Indian Air Force (IAF) Garud commando Corporal Jyoti Prakash Nirala. He had laid
down his life after gunning down two terrorists in Jammu and Kashmir. He is the third Ashok
Chakra for the IAF and its first for ground combat. Other two IAF officers are Rakesh Sharma (first
and still only Indian citizen to go to space) and Flying Officer Nirmaljit Singh Sekhon posthumously
decorated with the Param Vir Chakra in 1972.
Corporal Jyoti Prakash Nirala
He had joined the IAF in 2005 and was ‘Corporal’ when he was martyred. He was part of small Garud
commando batch attached to Indian Army’s specialized counter-insurgency force, Rashtriya Rifles
under the aegis of ‘Op Rakshak’ in J&K, when he was martyred.
On November 18, 2017, the Rashtriya Rifles-Garud team, acting on intelligence inputs, surrounded
house in Chandragarh village in Hajin in J&K, when they came under heavy fire from terrorists holed
up inside. Nirala, armed with light machine gun (LMG) had displayed conspicuous bravery in

confronting terrorists and killing two to three of them despite himself being hit by bullets. The
gunfight resulted in the killing of six terrorists. Corporal Nirala had exhibited most conspicuous
gallantry in fighting with terrorists and made supreme sacrifice.
Ashoka Chakra
It is India’s highest peacetime military decoration awarded for valor, courageous action or self-
sacrifice away from the battlefield It is the peace time equivalent of the Param Vir Chakra and is
awarded for the most conspicuous bravery or some daring or pre-eminent valour or self-sacrifice
other than in the face of the enemy.
2018 Padma Awards
January 26, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind has announced names of recipients of year 2018 Padma awards viz.
Padma Vibhushan, Padma Bhushan and Padma Shri. He approved conferment of Padma Awards on
85 persons.
Padma Awards, the country’s highest civilian awards bestowed for distinguished service of high
order in various disciplines- art, social work, public affairs, science and engineering, trade and
industry, medicine, literature and education, sports, civil service, etc.
The 2018 list includes 3 Padma Vibhushan, 9 Padma Bhushan and 73 Padma Shri Awardees. 14
awardees are women, 16 awardees are from category of foreigners, NRIs, PIOs while 3 are
posthumous awardees. The list also includes unsung persons and also people who rendered selfless
service at the grassroots.
PADMA VIBHUSHAN
It is the second highest civilian award.
No Name Field State
1 Illaiyaraja Art-Music Tamil Nadu
2 Ghulam Mustafa Khan Art-Music Maharashtra
3 Parameswaran Parameswaran Literature and Education Kerala
Padma Bhushan
It is the third highest civilian award.
No Name Field State
1 Pankaj Advani Sports- Billiards/Snooker Karnataka
2 Philipose Mar Chrysostom Others-Spiritualism Kerala
3 Mahendra Singh Dhoni Sports-Cricket Jharkhand
4 Alexander Kadakin (Foreigner) Public Affairs Russia
5 Ramachandran Nagaswamy Others-Archaeology Tamil Nadu
6 Ved Prakash Nanda (OCI) Literature and Education US
7 Laxman Pai Art-Painting Goa
8 Arvind Parikh Art-Music Maharashtra
9 Sharda Sinha Art-Music Bihar
Padma Shri
It is the fourth highest civilian award.
No Name Field State
1 Abhay Bang (Duo) Medicine Maharashtra

2 Rani Bang (Duo) Medicine Maharashtra
3 Damodar Ganesh Bapat Social Work Chhattisgarh
4 Prafulla Govinda Baruah Literature and Education-Journalism Assam
5 Mohan Swaroop Bhatia Art-Folk Music Uttar Pradesh
6 Sudhanshu Biswas Social Work West Bengal
7 Saikhom Mirabai Chanu Sports-Weightlifting Manipur
8 Pandit Shyamlal Chaturvedi Literature and Education-Journalism Chhattisgarh
9 Jose Ma Joey Concepcion III (Foreigner) Trade & Industry Philippines
10 Langpoklakpam Subadani Devi Art-Weaving Manipur
11 Somdev Devvarman Sports-Tennis Tripura
12 Yeshi Dhoden Medicine Himachal Pradesh
Literature and Education

13 Arup Kumar Dutta Assam
14 Doddarange Gowda Art-Lyrics Karnataka
15 Arvind Gupta Literature and Education Maharashtra
16 Digamber Hansda Literature and Education Jharkhand
17 Ramli Bin Ibrahim (Foreigner) Art-Dance Malaysia
18 Anwar Jalalpuri (Posthumous) Literature and Education Uttar Pradesh
19 Piyong Temjen Jamir Literature and Education Nagaland
20 Sitavva Joddati Social Work Karnataka
21 Malti Joshi Literature and Education MP
22 Manoj Joshi Art-Acting Maharashtra
23 Rameshwarlal Kabra Trade & Industry Maharashtra
24 Pran Kishore Kaul Art J&K
25 Bounlap Keokangna(Foreigner) Others-Architecture Laos
26 Vijay Kichlu Art-Music West Bengal
27 Tommy Koh(Foreigner) Public Affairs Singapore
28 Lakshmikutty Medicine-Traditional Kerala
29 Joyshree Goswami Mahanta Literature and Education Assam
30 Narayan Das Maharaj Others-Spiritualism Rajasthan
31 Pravakara Maharana Art-Sculpture Odisha
32 Hun Many (Foreigner) Public Affairs Cambodia
33 Nouf Marwaai(Foreigner) Others- Yoga Saudi Arabia

34 Zaverilal Mehta Literature and Education-Journalism Gujarat
35 Krishna Bihari Mishra Literature and Education West Bengal
36 Sisir Purushottam Misra Art-Cinema Maharashtra
37 Subhasini Mistry Social Work West Bengal
38 Somdet Phra Maha Muniwong (Foreigner) Others-Spiritualism Thailand
39 Keshav Rao Musalgaonkar Literature and Education MP
40 Dr Thant Myint – U(Foreigner) Public Affairs Myanmar
41 V Nanammal Others-Yoga Tamil Nadu
42 Sulagitti Narasamma Social Work Karnataka
43 Vijayalakshmi Navaneethakrishnan Art-Folk Music Tamil Nadu
44 I Nyoman Nuarta (Foreigner) Art- Sculpture Indonesia
Malai Haji Abdullah Bin Malai Haji

45 Social Work Brunei
Othman(Foreigner)
46 Gobaradhan Panika Art-Weaving Odisha
47 Bhabani Charan Pattanaik Public Affairs Odisha
48 Murlikant Petkar Sports-Swimming Maharashtra
49 Habibullo Rajabov(Foreigner) Literature and Education Tajikistan
50 M R Rajagopal Medicine-Palliative care Kerala
51
52 Sampat Ramteke(Posthumous) Social Work Maharashtra
53 Chandra Sekhar Rath Odisha
54 S S Rathore Civil Service Gujarat
55 Amitava Roy Science and Engineering West Bengal
56 Sanduk Ruit (Foreigner) Medicine- Ophthalmology Nepal
57 R Sathyanarayana Art-Music Karnataka
58 Pankaj M Shah Medicine- Ophthalmology Gujarat
59 Bhajju Shyam Art-Painting MP
60 Maharao Raghuveer Singh Literature and Education Rajasthan
61 Kidambi Srikanth Sports-Badminton Andhra Pradesh
62 Ibrahim Sutar Art-Music Karnataka
63 Siddeshwara Swamiji Others-Spiritualism Karnataka
64 Lentina Ao Thakkar Social Work Nagaland
65 Vikram Chandra Thakur Science and Engineering Uttarakhand

Rudrapatnam Narayanaswamy Tharanathan

66 Art-Music Karnataka
(Duo)
Rudrapatnam Narayanaswamy Thyagarajan

67 Art-Music Karnataka
(Duo)
68 Nguyen Tien Thien (Foreigner) Others-Spiritualism Vietnam
69 Bhagirath Prasad Tripathi Literature and Education UP
70 Rajagopalan Vasudevan Science and Engineering Bihar
71 Panatawane Gangadhar Vithobaji Literature and Education Maharashtra
72 Romulus Whitaker Others-Wildlife Conservation Tamil Nadu
73 Baba Yogendra Art Madhya Pradesh
74 A Zakia Literature and Education Mizoram
Government announces PM’s Shram Awards for 2016 to 50 workers

January 26, 2018
The Ministry of Labour & Employment has announced Prime Minister’s Shram Awards for the year
2016 to be awarded to 50 workers including 3 women employed in Departmental Undertakings &
Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) of Central/ State Governments and Private Sector Units
employing 500 or more workers. In 2016, 34 workers are from PSUs and 16 workers are from Private
Sectors.
2016 Shram Awards
Shram Ratna Award: No nomination was found suitable for it.
Shram Bhushan: 12 workers from SAIL, BHEL and TATA Steel Ltd. were selected.
Shram Vir/Shram Veerangana Award: 18 workers from Naval Dockyard, Ordinance Factory,
Rashtriya Ispat Nigam, TATA Steel, Hindalco Industries, Paradeep Phosphates Ltd., Brahmos
Aerospace were selected.
Shram Shree/Shram Devi Award: 20 workers from Cement Corporation of India, Naval Ship Repair
Yard, TATA Motors, Surat Lignite Power Plant, Larsen & Toubro Ltd. etc were selected.
Shram Awards
They were instituted in 1985 and are announced every year by Ministry of Labour and Employment.
These awards are given to workers in PSUs, Departmental Undertakings of Central/State
Governments and Private Sector units employing 500 or more workers.
Objective: It recognises workers for their distinguished performance, innovative ability, outstanding
contribution in the field of productivity and exhibition of exceptional courage and presence of mind.
It also recognises outstanding contributions made by workmen as defined in Industrial Dispute Act,
1947 in organizations both in public and private sector
There are four types of Shram awards viz. Shram Ratna (monetary award of Rs. 2 lakhs and Sanad),
Shram Bhushan (Rs. 1 lakh and Sanad), Shram Vir / Shram Veerangana (Rs. 60000 and Sanad),
Shram Devi / Shram Shree (Rs. 40000 and Sanad).
WEF launches Global Centre for Cybersecurity
January 26, 2018
The World Economic Forum (WEF) has launched new Global Centre for Cybersecurity in a bid to
safeguard world from hackers and growing data breaches — especially from nation-states. The
centre will be headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland and will become operational from March 2018
Global Centre for Cybersecurity
The Global Centre for Cybersecurity will function as an autonomous organization under WEF. It will
help to build a safe and secure global cyberspace. Its aim is to establish first global platform for
governments, businesses, experts and law enforcement agencies to collaborate on cybersecurity
challenges. It will draw on WEF’s government and industry support to work towards more secure
cyberspace through its established multistakeholder approach.

Mandate of Global Centre for Cybersecurity
Consolidate existing cybersecurity initiatives of WEF.
Establish independent library of cyber best practices.
Help partners to enhance knowledge on cybersecurity.
Work towards an appropriate and agile regulatory framework on cybersecurity.
Serve as laboratory and early-warning think tank for future cybersecurity scenarios.
World Economic Forum (WEF)
WEF is Swiss nonprofit foundation, based in Geneva. It is recognized as international institution for
public-private cooperation. It is committed to improve state of world by engaging business, political,
academic, and other leaders of society to shape global, regional, and industry agendas.
WEF is best known for its annual winter meeting for five days in Davos, a mountain resort in
Graubünden, in eastern Alps region of Switzerland. The meeting brings together some international
political leaders, 2,500 top business leaders, selected intellectuals, and journalists to discuss the most
pressing issues facing the world.
Rotavac: First India-designed vaccine to pass WHO test
January 26, 2018
Rotavac became first Indigenously developed vaccine from India to be pre-qualified by World Health
Organisation (WHO). It means that vaccine can be sold internationally to several countries in South
America and Africa.
So far, several vaccines from India have been pre-qualified by WHO, but Rotavac is first vaccine
entirely developed locally to get this status in safety and efficacy.
Rotavac
Rotavac conceived and developed by the Hyderabad-based Bharat Biotech Limited. It protects against
childhood diarrhoea caused by the rotavirus. It was developed under the joint collaboration between
India and United States in area of medical research.
It was developed under public-private partnership (PPP) model that involved Ministry of Science and
Technology, institutions of the US Government and NGOs in India supported by Bill and Melinda
Gates Foundation.
The vaccine was built on strain of the virus isolated at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences
(AIIMS), New Delhi over 30 years ago. It has been included in India’s national immunisation
programme. The vaccine was tested in field for over a year, have not shown any negative effect.
Significance
This recognition signifies credible industrial, scientific and regulatory process in place to develop
vaccines in India. It paves the way for health and humanitarian organizations such as UNICEF, GAVI
and Pan-American Health Organization to procure Rotavac for public health vaccination
programmes across the world.
Rotavirus
It is a most common causative agent of moderate-to-severe diarrhoea (MSD) among infants below 11
months age group in India. It spreads from person to person due to bacterial and parasiting agents
that are primarily transmitted through contaminated food or water. It is responsible for estimated
36% of hospitalisations for childhood diarrhoea around world and for estimated 200,000 deaths in
low- and middle-income countries. In India, diarrhoea caused by rotavirus, kills nearly 80 thousand
children under age of 5 years and up to 10 lakh hospitalizations each year.
January 27, 2018
Mehul Garg: Indian-origin boy sets new Mensa record
January 27, 2018
Indian-origin boy Mehul Garg (10) in United Kingdom became youngest applicant in decade to
achieve highest score in Mensa IQ test, beating geniuses like Albert Einstein and Stephen Hawking.
He scored maximum score of 162 to become a member of Mensa. His score is two points higher than
Einstein and Hawking.
Mehul Garg is from Reading Boys Grammar School in Reading, southern England. He can solve
Rubik’s Cube in 100 seconds. He has been shortlisted for ‘Child Genius 2018’ show on Channel 4.
Mensa IQ test

Mensa is the largest and oldest high IQ society in the world. It is non-profit organization open to
people who score at 98th percentile or higher on standardized, supervised IQ or other approved
intelligence test.
Its mission is to identify and foster human intelligence for benefit of humanity, encourage research
into nature, characteristics, and uses of intelligence and provide stimulating intellectual and social
environment for its members. It was established in October 1946 and is headquartered in
Lincolnshire, England. So far it has 134000 members.
Alpha Design Technologies wins firing simulator order from India Army
January 27, 2018
Alpha Design Technologies Ltd. has signed Rs. 45-crore deal with Ministry of Defence to supply
indigenous simulators for gunnery and missile firing from BMP II vehicles to Indian Army.
Under this deal, as many as 57 simulators will be manufactured at company’s Bengaluru facility and
will be supplied to Indian Army over two years period.
Key Facts
The BMP II is a Soviet-origin amphibious infantry fighting vehicle. The simulators will be used to
train missile firing personnel. Currently, Indian Army firing personnel train fully on actual BMP
vehicles. The use of simulators will save vehicle wear and tear to large extent.
Background
Alpha Design Technologies Ltd is mid-size company focussing on defence electronics products. The
simulators bid for BMP II vehicles was floated about five yeàrs back for Indian public and private
enterprises and involved trials over two years.
India-Japan Smart Grid Pilot Project inaugurated in Panipat
January 27, 2018
India-Japan Smart Grid Pilot Project was inaugurated Panipat, Haryana to solve the various
complications faced by the power distribution sector. It was inaugurated by State Chief Minister
Manohar Lal Khattar in the presence of Japanese Minister Keniko Sen.
Key Facts
India-Japan Smart Grid Pilot Project was initiated under intensive relations between Japan and India
and Central Government’s flagship Make in India Programme. The project aims to make electricity
distribution network smarter and disseminate Japanese technologies in India.
It also seeks to improve capacity of power companies to provide operational know-how concerning
power distribution to effectively use smart grid-related technologies to reduce distribution losses
and failure rate of distribution transformers. It also seeks to improve the frequency of power failures,
by providing Japanese operational know-how concerning power distribution systems including
mastering those technologies.
Under this project, smart meters were installed at homes of customers in Panipat to perform data
collection as well as monitoring and control through supervisory control system called SCADA. Its
purpose is to demonstrate peak load reduction technology, distribution grid monitoring and control
technology and power distribution loss reduction technology aimed at power meter tampering,
power theft, and omission of bill collection.
Background
The Union Ministry of Power has launched fourteen smart grid pilot projects to modernize power
distribution networks in India for building next generation power distribution networks with less
electrical waste. The project in Panipat, Haryana is one of the fourteen smart grid pilot projects.
Japan’s New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) had inked
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Haryana Government in December 2015 for
demonstration of Smart Grid Pilot Project in Panipat.
Government relaxes norms of Atal Pension Yojana to expand coverage
January 27, 2018
The Union Finance Ministry has relaxed norms of Atal Pension Yojana (APY) to allow small finance
banks and payment banks to offer APY distribution. The move is expected to help expand coverage of
the scheme and strengthen existing channels of APY distribution.
Key Facts
The APY scheme follows same investment pattern as applicable to National Pension Scheme (NPS)

contribution of Central government employees. During financial year 2016-17, the scheme has earned
return of 13.91%. There are more than 84 lakh subscribers registered under APY scheme with an asset
base of more than Rs. 3,194 crore.
At present 233 Banks and Department of Post are involved with the implementation of the scheme.
With relaxation of the norms, now 11 Payment Banks and 10 Small Finance Banks (SFBs) can also
offer APY distribution.
Atal Pension Yojana
APY became operational from June 1, 2015 with an aim to provide affordable universal access to
essential social security protection to unorganized work force of country, which makes major chunk
of labour force (88%). It had replaced earlier Swavalamban scheme.
It is available to all citizens of India in the age group of 18-40 years (thus minimum period of
contribution by subscriber is 20 years). Under scheme, subscriber will receive a minimum
guaranteed pension of Rs. 1000 to Rs. 5000 per month, depending on his contribution, from age of 60
years.
There is no exit to the scheme before the age of 60. In case of death of subscriber, the spouse of the
subscriber shall be entitled for the same amount of pension till his or her death.
Uttar Pradesh with 11.41 APY accounts is highest contributing state of the scheme followed by Bihar
(8.87 lakh subscribers) and Tamil Nadu (6.60 lakh).
India to host informal WTO Ministerial gathering in March 2018
January 27, 2018
India has announced to host informal Ministerial meeting of World Trade Organisation (WTO) in
March 2018 in New Delhi to muster support for issues and also help to multi-lateral process.
It was announced by Deepak Jagdish Saksena, India’s ambassador and permanent representative to
WTO during informal WTO ministerial gathering at Davos on the sidelines of the World Economic
Forum (WEF) annual summit.
Key Facts
About 40 WTO members from both rich and developing nations are being called by India for this
informal meeting to “revitalise” the multi-lateral trade body. The objective of meeting is to discuss
ways to revitalise WTO to ensure predictable and transparent system of rule-making in the area of
international trade.
The meeting will be taking place after collapse of the WTO 11th Ministerial Conference (MC 11) held
in Buenos Aires in December 2017. It will be held in backdrop of rich nations forming groupings to
prepare ground for pushing new issues such as investment facilitation, preparing rules for e-
commerce, promoting gender equality, reducing subsidy on fisheries, unreported and unregulated
fishing
Background
India has been keenly pushing agriculture issues including permanent solution on public
stockholding issue for food security at WTO Ministerial Conferences. It has also been raising its voice
against bringing new issues proposed by developed countries, especially those which are not directly
linked to trade.
India had expressed its disappointment over US’s refusal to agree on public stockholding issue at
recently concluded WTO’s MC 11 in Buenos Aires, Argentina in December 2017. The MC 11 had
concluded in deadlock without any substantial outcome as consensus eluded the 164-member body.
The deadlock came after US and other developed countries blocked permanent solution on
government stockholding for food security purposes and toughened stand on new issues by India
and other developing countries. US also had refused to re-affirm the multilateralism and the Doha
development mandate in MC11.
Punjab Government launches Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojana
January 27, 2018
Punjab Government has launched Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojna (MGSVY) for the welfare of
the downtrodden citizen across the state.
This scheme is aimed at the inclusive growth of the distressed sections of the society. It will be on the
line of Antyodaya principles (Antyodaya’ means rise of the last person) and will be implemented in
the state’s rural areas.

Mahatma Gandhi Sarbat Vikas Yojna (MGSVY)
The objective of scheme is to identify poor and distressed households which have been deprived of
the benefits of the various welfare schemes launched by state government. It will give distressed
sections much need socially or economically or psychologically help.
Its purpose is to benefit 18 marginalized sections living in rural areas of state. It will provide benefit
of welfare schemes for debt stressed farmers, poor families that have woman as sole bread earner,
out-of-school children, martyred soldiers, families of AIDS patients, differently-abled, abandoned old
persons, drug addicts etc.
It aims to will give more focus on encouraging voluntary organizations, various civil society
organizations, Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and other socially committed persons to contribute to
the welfare of the downtrodden. Moreover, under the scheme will be no financial implication.
Kolkata becomes first Indian metro to get floating market
January 27, 2018
Kolkata, capital of West Bengal became first metro city in India to get floating market. It was
inaugurated by West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee.
The floating market is located on lake at Patuli in South Kolkata which is 400 metres long and 60
metres wide. The lake has been transformed into the floating market similar to the one in Thailand.
Key Facts
The aim of floating market is to rehabilitate over 200 shopkeepers from nearby market that was
demolished for the widening of Eastern Metropolitan Bypass (EMB) — an important road that
connects the northern parts of Kolkata o the eastern and southern tips.
The market will host at least 114 boats, each one accommodating two shops. These shops will sell
regular or daily-use items that include vegetables, fruits, flowers, fish and meat and poultry.
Shoppers can approach these boats through wooden walkways.
Special provisions have been made to ensure that water in lake does not stink and the aquatic life
survives. Nets will be routinely used to fish out vegetable peel, fish scales and other waste from the
water. The Kolkata Metropolitan Development Authority (KMDA) is executing agency of floating
market.
January 28, 2018
28 January 2018: World Leprosy Day
January 28, 2018
The World Leprosy Day is observed internationally every year on last Sunday of January month to
raise global awareness of Leprosy. This year it was observed on 28 January. Observance of the day
focuses on target of zero cases of leprosy-related disabilities in children.
The day was initiated by French philanthropist and writer, Raoul Follereau in 1954 as way to raise
global awareness of this deadly ancient disease and call attention to the fact that it can be prevented,
treated and cured.
Leprosy
Leprosy (also known as Hansen’s disease) is one of the oldest diseases known to humankind. It is
caused by by a slow-growing type of bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae (M. leprae), which
multiplies very slowly in the human body. The bacterium has a long incubation period (on average 5
years or longer). The disease affects nerve endings and destroys the body’s ability to feel pain and
injury. It is chronic granulomatous disease that mainly affects skin and peripheral nervous system. It
can also affect the eyes and respiratory system. It is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT).
Treatment provided in the early stages averts disability.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), despite being eliminated globally as public
health problem in 2000, leprosy continues to mar lives of individuals, and impacts families and
communities. In 2015, Leprosy affected 212 000 more people globally of them 60% were in India.
Asha Bhosle selected for fifth Yash Chopra Memorial Award
January 28, 2018
Legendary playback singer Asha Bhosle (84) was chosen for fifth edition of Yash Chopra Memorial
Award for her outstanding contribution to the Hindi film industry. She will be presented with award
in February 2018 by Maharashtra Governor C Vidyasagar Rao. She was selected by jury members
comprising Chopra’s wife Pamela Chopra, filmmakers Boney Kapoor, Madhur Bhandarkar, singer

Alka Yagnik, actor Padmini Kohlapure, scriptwriter Honey Irani, Anu and Shashi Ranjan.
Asha Bhosle
Born as Asha Mangeshkar on 8 September 1933 in Sangli, Maharashtra. She is best known as a
playback singer in Hindi cinema. In her illustrious music career spanning nearly seven decades she
has recorded over 11,000 songs in 20 different languages. Her work includes film music, pop, ghazals,
bhajans, traditional Indian classical music, folk songs, qawwalis, and Rabindra Sangeets. She is sister
of playback singer Lata Mangeshkar.
Yash Chopra Memorial Award
The award has been instituted by MP T Subbarami Reddy in the memory of renowned filmmaker
Yash Chopra, who died in 2012, in association with Anu Ranjan and Shashi Ranjan. The award also
carries a cash prize of Rs 10 lakh. The list of previous recipients of award include melody queen Lata
Mangeshkar and actors Amitabh Bachchan, Rekha, and Shah Rukh Khan.
India’s Green Revolution pioneer Dr Gurcharan Singh Kalkat passes away
January 28, 2018
Noted agricultural scientist and pioneer of India’s Green Revolution, Gurcharan Singh Kalkat (92),
passed away in Chandigarh after a brief illness.
He was known for his role in bringing Green Revolution and several exemplary agricultural reforms
in Punjab. His contribution had ensured overall development and a phenomenal growth in the
agriculture sector.
Gurcharan Singh Kalkat
He was born in Hoshiarpur’s Sahora village on June 17, 1926. He had obtained his BSc Agriculture
degree from Punjab Agriculture College, Lyallpur (now Pakistan) in 1947.
He had joined Ohio State University in January 1957 as a Rockfeller Fellow and had completed his
PhD in agricultural zoology-entomology in December 1958. He was later honoured with
Distinguished International Student Award of the university.
Kalkat also had worked as a senior agriculturist with the World Bank and was stationed at
Washington DC from 1978-1989. During this period, he worked on agriculture and rural development
programmes of Nigeria and Ghana where he was pioneer in introducing shallow tubewells for
irrigation and hand pumps for drinking water. He also supervised implementation of World Bank
assisted programmes in India, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Indonesia.
During his tenure as director agriculture, Punjab and agriculture commissioner (additional
secretary), India had witnessed Green Revolution. He also had held reins of Punjab Agricultural
University, Ludhiana as its vice chancellor from 1998 to 2001. He was awarded Padma Shri and
Padma Bhushan for his work.
PM Narendra Modi to visit to Palestine, UAE, Oman in February 2018
January 28, 2018
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on four-day official state visit to Palestine, Oman and
UAE in February 2018.
This will be the first ever visit by Indian Prime Minister to Palestine and PM Modi’s second visit to
UAE and first to Oman. During the visit, PM Modi will hold talks with the leadership in the countries
on “matters of mutual interest with their leaders, apart from participating in other events.
Key Facts
Palestine visit: PM Modi will hold meeting with Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas, who had
visited India last May 2017 when India had reassured unwavering support towards Palestinian cause.
PM Modi’s visit to Palestine comes less than month after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin
Netanyahu’s India trip in January 2018.
UAE visit: PM Modi will hold talks with the leadership on key issues of defence, security and trade.
He will also address Sixth World Government Summit to be held in Dubai at which India is ‘Guest of
Honour’. He will also meet the Indian community.
Oman visit: During the visit, PM Modi’s focus will be on intensifying cooperation in key sectors such
as trade and defence. He will also meet the Indian community. Bilateral trade and investment
between India and Oman remain robust and buoyant. It saw decline during 2014-15 and 2015-16, has
resumed its upward trend with an increase of 3.6% from $3.8 billion in 2015-16 to $4 billion in 2016-17.

India, Lao PDR sign civil aviation cooperation agreement

January 28, 2018
India and Lao PDR have signed civil aviation cooperation agreement for providing SkyRev360, a
comprehensive e-data gathering, invoicing and collection system.
The agreement was signed between Airports Authority of India (AAI) and Lao Air Traffic
Management, Department of Civil Aviation.
SkyRev360
SkyRev360 is fully automated and comprehensive data gathering invoicing and collection service
system. It has been developed by AAI in collaboration with International Air Transport Association
(IATA) under the Government’s Make in India initiative. It helps to eliminate inaccuracies errors and
delays for better revenue management with less manual processing. It was launched in February
2017 by AAI.
It helps airport operators world-wide in avoiding revenue leakages, reducing redundancies, disputes
and easy integration with all external systems. It also helps in curtailing the debt collection period to
the minimum.
Features
Data gathering and processing module: It can ensure essential data of invoices latest and most
complete.
Invoicing module: It maintains all account attributes and allows for extensive view of associated
data, including aircraft specifications, flight movements, billing ledger records, etc.
Collection: Its all data collections are managed with IATA Enhancement & Financing Services (E&F)
process, which offers efficiencies and automation to air navigation service providers (ANSPs) and
airlines by settling through IATA Settlement Systems.
Airline queries: All queries and disputes related to billing and collection from your air operators are
handled by IATA team.
Dashboard and reports: It continuously reports incidents, airspace usage, traffic volumes, economic
values etc.
President Ram Nath Kovind launches Pulse Polio programme for 2018
January 28, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind has launched Pulse Polio Immunization (PPI) Programme for year 2018
by administering polio drops to children at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The event was organised on the
eve of the National Immunisation Day (NID), observed on 28 January. More than 17 crore children of
less than 5 years across the country will be given polio drops as part of Government’s drive to
eradicate polio from the country.
Pulse Polio Immunization (PPI)
PPI Programme is massive immunization programme of Government to sustain polio eradication
from the country. It was launched by Central Government in co-operation with international
agencies, state governments and non-government/voluntary organizations in 1995 as result of World
Health Organization’s (WHO) Global Polio Eradication Initiative.
PPI Programme was initiated with objective of achieving 100% coverage under OPV. It aims to reach
unreached children through improved social mobilization, plan mop-up operations in areas where
poliovirus has almost disappeared and maintain high level of morale among the public. Under this
programme, all children under 5 years are given 2 doses of Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) in month of
December and January every year until polio is eradicated.
Polio
Polio (Poliomyelitis) is a highly infectious viral disease, which mainly affects young children below
age of 5. It is transmitted from person-to-person. It mainly spreads through faecal-oral route (e.g.
contaminated water or food). After entering body, it multiplies in the intestine, from where it can
invade the nervous system and can cause paralysis. Its initial symptoms include fever, fatigue,
headache, vomiting, stiffness in the neck, and pain in limbs. In some cases, it causes permanent
paralysis. There is no cure for polio, it can only be prevented by immunization.
India, Cambodia ink 4 pacts
January 28, 2018
India and Cambodia have signed four agreements to boost bilateral cooperation between both

countries. The agreements were signed after comprehensive talks between Prime Minister Narendra
Modi and his Cambodian counterpart Samdech Hun Sen in New Delhi.
Key Takeaways from comprehensive talks
Defence, security and counter-terrorism: Both leaders held talks to boost ties in key areas of
defence, security and counter-terrorism and called for concerted global efforts to eliminate
terrorism, including blocking terror financing and dismantling terrorist bases.
Enhance bilateral defence ties: They agreed to further enhance bilateral defence ties, including
through exchanges of senior-level defence personnel and capacity building projects. They also
discussed exploring ways to intensify development partnership and boost ties in key sectors,
including trade and investment, energy conservation, agriculture, and tourism and culture.
Maritime Security: They also expressed keen interest in enhancing cooperation in maritime domain,
including preservation of coastal and marine environment, anti-piracy cooperation, security of sea
lanes of communication to maintain peace and ensure safety and security of navigation in Indo-
Pacific Region. They also supported complete freedom of navigation and overflight and pacific
resolution of maritime issues based on international law.
Agreements signed are
Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP): It seeks to promote cultural exchange and strengthen the friendly
relations between both countries.
Credit Line Agreement: It was signed between India’s EXIM Bank Government of Cambodia for Line of Credit
(LoC) to finance Stung Sva Hab Water Resource Development Project for US$ 36.92 million.
Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters: It seeks to improve effectiveness of both countries in
prevention, investigation and prosecution of crimes through cooperation and legal assistance in criminal matters.
MoU on Cooperation for Prevention of Human Trafficking: It seeks to increase bilateral cooperation on
issues of prevention, rescue and repatriation related to human trafficking.
Background
India-Cambodia bilateral relations are warm and cordial. The relations go back to 1st century AD
when Hindu and Buddhist religious and cultural influences emanated out of India to various parts of
Southeast Asia. Cambodians are predominantly Buddhist but retain strong influence of Hindu
mythology, rituals and idolatry.
MeITY launches Stree Swabhiman Initiative for Women Health and Hygiene
January 28, 2018
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeITY) has launched Stree Swabhiman
Initiative. Its aim is to create sustainable model for providing adolescent girls and women an access
to affordable sanitary products by leveraging Common Service Centres (CSCs).
Stree Swabhiman Initiative
Under this initiative, Common Service Centres (CSC) will provide access to affordable, reliable and
modern (eco-friendly) sanitary
napkins (menstrual pads) to adolescent girls and women in rural areas. Its purpose is to improve
awareness on menstrual health and hygiene of women, thus help to protect dignity and rights of
women. Under this initiative, semi-automatic and manual sanitary napkin manufacturing units will
be set up at CSC for producing affordable and eco-friendly sanitary napkins. These micro
manufacturing units will be operated by women entrepreneurs and generate employment for 8-10
women.
Common Service Centres
CSCs are ICT enabled front end service delivery points at the village level for delivery of government
and private services. They are a strategic cornerstone of the Digital India programme. They are the

access points for delivery of various electronic services to villages in India.
January 29, 2018
Acid attack victims to get quota in Central Government jobs
January 29, 2018
The Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has issued notification to provide quota to people
with autism, mental illnesses, intellectual disability and victims of acid attacks in Central
government jobs.
In case of direct recruitment, 4% of the total number of vacancies, up from existing 3%, in groups A, B
and C will be reserved for people with Benchmark disability i.e. person with not less than 40% of a
specified disability. The additional 1 % reservation to existing 3% reservation is as per the provision
Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
Key Facts
As per the notification, 1% of each posts will be reserved for people with blindness and low vision,
deaf and hard of hearing, locomotor disability including cerebral palsy, leprosy cured, dwarfism, acid
attack victims and muscular dystrophy. Besides, 1% posts each shall be also reserved for people
suffering from autism, intellectual disability, specific learning disability and mental illness.
Moreover, all government organisations will have to appoint ‘grievance redressal officers’ to look
into complaints.
Intellectual disability
It is a condition characterised by significant limitations both in intellectual functioning such as
reasoning, learning and problem solving. It is in adaptive behaviour that covers a range of everyday
skills.
Australian Open 2018: Roger Federer wins Men’s Singles title
January 29, 2018
Swiss tennis player Roger Federer (World No. 2) has retained his Men’s Singles title by winning 2018
Australian Open. In the summit clash played at Melbourne, he defeated Croatia’s Marin Cilic (World
no. 6) in five sets 6-2, 6-7, 6-3, 3-6, 6-1. It was Federer’s sixth Australian Open Crown (earlier won in
2004, 2006, 2007, 2010 and 2017) and overall 20th Grand Slam singles titles. With this, he joins elite
group of Margaret Court, Serena Williams and Steffi Graf who have won 20 or more Grand Slam
singles titles.
Other Category Winners
Women’s Singles: Caroline Wozniacki (Denmark) won women’s Singles title in 2018 Australian Open by
defeating Simona Halep (Romania) by 7–6(7–2), 3–6, 6–4 score.
Men’s Doubles: Oliver Marach (Austria) and Mate Pavić (Croatia) pair won the title by defeating Juan Colombian
pair of Sebastián Cabal and Robert Farah by 6–4, 6–4 score.
Women’s Doubles: Tímea Babos (Hungary) and Kristina Mladenovic (France) pair won the title by defeating
Russian pair of Ekaterina Makarova and Elena Vesnina by 6–4, 6–3 score.
Mixed Doubles: Gabriela Dabrowski (Canada) and Mate Pavić (Croatia) pair won the title by defeating Tímea
Babos (Hungary) and Rohan Bopanna (India) by 2–6, 6–4, [11–9] score.

2018 Republic Day parade: Maharashtra wins best tableau prize

January 29, 2018
Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman gave away Republic Day Parade 2018 best tableau
award to Maharashtra and best marching contingent award to Punjab Regiment Contingent.
The ceremonial Republic Day Parade 2018 was held on 26 January 2018 at Rajpath to celebrate 69th
Republic Day. It was presided over by President Ram Nath Kovind and 10 leaders of Association of
Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) were guests of honour. India’s military might was fully displayed
during the annual celebrations.
Total of 23 tableaux (14 from States & Union Territories, 2 from Ministry of External Affairs and rest
of the tableaux from other Ministries/Departments) participated in this year’s Republic Day Parade.
Ministry of External Affairs 2 tableaux depicted long socio-cultural, religious, educational & trade
relations between India and 10 ASEAN countries
Republic Day Parade 2018 Awards
Best marching contingent
Among Three Services: Punjab Regiment (1st).
Among para-military and other auxiliary forces: Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP).
Best Tableau
State wise
First: Tableau from Maharashtra depicting coronation of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj was awarded first prize.
Second: Tableau from Assam depicting traditional masks and sastras begged second prize.
Third: Tableau of Chhattisgarh depicting Ramgarh’s ancient amphitheatre along with artistes performing dance,
based on Kalidasa’s Meghadootam was awarded third prize.

Union Ministries/Departments Category: Tableaux of Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports depicting ‘Khelo
India’ was given first prize.
School children items category
First prize: South Central Zone Cultural Centre, Nagpur (Maharashtra) performing ‘Baredi Dance’ from Madhya
Pradesh.
Consolation prizes: It was awarded to North East Zone Cultural Centre, Dimapur (Nagaland) for performing
Sangrai Mog Dance of Tripura and Oxford Foundation School, Najafgarh, Delhi for performing Shikshit Bharat,
Shashakt Bharat dance.
NASA interested in India-made thermal spray coating technology
January 29, 2018
National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is interested in new India-made thermal
spray coating technology used for gas turbine engine in spacecraft.
It has been developed by Dr. Satish Tailor, Rajasthan-based researcher working with Jodhpur-based
Metallizing Equipment Company (MEC).
Key Facts
The technology is called controlled segmented Yttria-Stabilised Zirconia (YSZ)-Plasma sprayed
coating technology. It has potential to reduce thermal spray coating cost by almost 50%. It develops
vertical cracks (segmentation) in coating, beneficial for gas turbine engine application used in
spacecraft.
The new technology has advantage over current, costly techniques such as SPS or EB-PVD deposited
coatings. These present technologies develop such cracks through very expensive processes (in
several crore) and are not controllable.
Significance
The YSZ thermal barrier coatings produced by atmospheric plasma sprayed (APS) technique has
potential of wider industrial and strategic acceptability. It can be industrially adopted to make a
strain-tolerant coating more economical.
Thermal Spray Coating Technology
Thermal spray coating refers to number of processes in which substrate is coated to improve
functional performance. It involves the deposition of coatings from stream of high velocity finely
divided particles in molten or semi-molten state impinging onto the substrate.
Many types of coating materials can be applied by thermal spray processes. These coatings can range
in thickness from thousandth of inch up to eighth of inch. Thermal spray coatings are used to protect
parts from wear, abrasion, corrosion, high temperatures, etc. and also to build dimensions on
undersized parts.
Khelo India Pledge Launched at Khelo India School Games Carnival
January 29, 2018
Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has launched Pledge for Khelo India at Khelo India School
Games Carnival in Delhi. The pledge resonates with vision of Khelo India programme and is aimed at
inspiring youngsters to build mass participation and excellence in sports. It also is promise to
participant and encourages sportsmanship spirit.
Khelo India School Games
Khelo India School Games was launched under Khelo India Programme. It was held at multiple
venues across Delhi from January 31 to February 8, 2018. It encompassed 16 sports disciplines under
which overall 199 gold medals, 199 silver medals, 275 bronze medals, to were awarded. It aimed at
creating platform to showcase hidden talent, fostering young sports prodigies and creating
awareness and cognizance about physical fitness as well as good health amongst youngsters.
Khelo India programme
The Khelo India Programme was launched in 2016 for building inclusive and comprehensive sports
ecosystem in country. It aims at inculcating sports into the day to day lives of youngsters early on in
their lives. It subsumed earlier three different schemes into one namely: Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan
(RGKA), National Sports Talent Search Scheme (NSTSS) and Urban Sports Infrastructure Scheme (USIS).
Objectives
Promote Sports for All as well as Sports for Excellence and create an active population with healthy lifestyle.

Mainstream sport as tool for individual development, community development, economic development and
national development.
Impact entire sports ecosystem, including infrastructure, community sports, talent identification, coaching for
excellence, competition structure and sports economy.
Engage youth living in disturbed and deprived areas, in sporting activities, to wean them away from unproductive
and disruptive activities and mainstream them in nation-building process.
Parliamentary Group to confer Outstanding Parliamentarian Awards to five MPs
January 29, 2018
The Parliamentary Group has decided to confer Outstanding Parliamentarian Awards to five
Members of Parliament. They are
Dr Najma Heptulla: She is former Rajya Sabha MP and was selected for this award for the year 2013.
Hukumdev Narayan Yadav: He is Lok Sabha MP and was selected for this award for the year for 2014.
Ghulam Nabi Azad: He is Rajya Sabha and was selected for this award for the year for 2015.
Dinesh Trivedi: He is Lok Sabha MP and was selected for 2016.
Bhartruhari Mahatab: He is Lok Sabha MP and was selected for 2017.
Outstanding Parliamentarian Award
The Outstanding Parliamentarian Award was established in 1992 by Shivraj Patil who was then the
Speaker of Lok Sabha. The Indian Parliamentary Group selects an outstanding sitting Member of
Parliament after considering his/her overall contribution in Parliament.
MHA to set up Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre in New Delhi
January 29, 2018
The Union Home Ministry will set up Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C), an apex
coordination centre in New Delhi to deal with cybercrimes.
It also has asked States to establish similar mechanism in every district and released funds for
setting up of cyber-forensic training laboratory-cum-training centre for police officials in each State.
It also has released funds to Cyber Crime Prevention against Women and Children Scheme.
Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C)
It will be apex coordination centre to deal with cybercrimes based in New Delhi. It will coordinate
with State governments/UTs and closely monitor cyberspace and social media with due emphasis on
vernacular content. It will also block those websites which flout Indian laws and circulate child
pornography and communally and racially sensitive content.
It will also maintain list of suspects and leads generated during investigations in cybercrime cases
and will be shared with law enforcement agencies through secured internal network. Under this
framework, state governments will set up State cybercrime coordination cell at headquarter-level
and also establish district cybercrime cells.
Background
Over a period of time, there has been phenomenal increase in use of computers, smart phones and
internet in India. With this increase, cybercrimes have emerged as major challenge for law
enforcement agencies. The cybercrime cases are of varied types ranging from defacement of
government websites, online financial frauds, online stalking and harassment, and data thefts.
Moreover, these cybercrime cases pose technical, legal and administrative challenges in investigation
which require strengthening of institutional mechanism. Institutionalisation of I4C comes in wake of
1,44,496 cybersecurity attacks observed in country during 2014-16 period. MHA already has created
Cyber and Information Security Division, a new wing to deal with new-age challenge.
VINBAX: Indian, Vietnam hold first military exercise in Jabalpur
January 29, 2018
The India-Vietnam Bilateral Army Exercise (VINBAX-2018) was conducted at Jabalpur in Madhya
Pradesh. It is the first military exercise between the two countries. The six day-long military exercise
(from January 29 to February 3, 2018) was conducted as part of joint training undertaken with
friendly foreign countries by Indian Army.
Key Facts
VINBAX-2018 was Table Top Exercise to carry out training for Peace Keeping Operations under
United Nations (UN) mandate. It was jointly undertaken between 15 officers each from Indian Army

and Vietnam People’s Army. The joint exercise was especially designed to enable and train officers
from Vietnam in United Nations Peace Keeping Operations. The joint exercise was of mutual
interaction and shared experiences amongst both armies. It also further strengthened cultural and
historical ties between both nations and took bilateral relations forward to greater heights.
Background
Defence ties between India and Vietnam have been on an upswing with the primary focus being
cooperation in the maritime domain. Both countries had signed a protocol on defence cooperation in
1994. The partnership was thereafter elevated to strategic level in 2007 and pact on boosting
bilateral defence cooperation was signed in 2009. The strategic partnership was elevated to a
comprehensive strategic partnership in September 2016.
Highlights of Economic Survey 2017-18
January 29, 2018
Union finance Minister Arun Jaitley tabled the Economic Survey 2017-18 in Parliament during 2018
budget session. The survey was authored by chief economic adviser in the finance ministry Arvind
Subramanian. The survey projects economy to grow in the range of 7% to 7.50% in the next fiscal year
2018-19 in the post-demonetisation year. Suvey 2017-18 was in pink colour to highlight gender issues.
Key Highlights of Survey
Growth Forecast: The real GDP growth projections for 2017-18 is expected to be around 6.75%, which
is further expected to reach to 7-7.5% in 2018-19 driven by major reforms initiated by the
government. There was reversal of declining trend of GDP growth in second quarter of 2017-18. The
growth during this period was led by industry sector. Agriculture, industry and services sectors are
expected to grow at the rate of 2.1%, 4.4%, and 8.3% respectively in 2017-18.
Fiscal discipline: The fiscal deficit as percentage to GDP to remain stable at 3.2%, indicating that
government’s priority still lies in fiscal consolidation.
Inflation: Lower CPI inflation average to 3.33% will be seen but higher WPI Inflation average to 2.9%
in 2017-18.
Exports: Growth of exports rebounded into positive one during 2016-17 and expected to grow faster
in 2017-18 to 12.1% after remaining in negative territory for a couple of years.
Forex reserves: India can be rated as among the best performing economies in the world with its
foreign exchange reserves shooting to $409.4 billion.
Goods and Services Tax (GST): It has given new perceptive of Indian economy and new data on
indirect taxation has emerged. There has been a 50% increase in number of indirect taxpayers.
India’s formal sector: The formal non-farm payroll is substantially greater than currently believed to
be. When formality was defined in terms of social security provisions like EPFO/ESIC, then the
formal sector payroll was found to be about 31% of the non-agricultural work force. When it was
defined in terms of being part of the GST net, then such formal sector payroll share was found to be
53%.
International exports of states: For the first time in India’s history, data on the international exports
of states was dwelled in Economic Survey. It indicates strong correlation between export
performance and states’ standard of living. States exporting internationally and trading with other
states were found to be richer. Thus, such correlation is stronger between prosperity and
international trade.
Firms and Exports: India’s exports are unusual as largest firms account for a much smaller share of
exports than in other comparable countries. Top 1% of Indian firms account only for 38% of exports
unlike in other countries where they account for substantially greater share – (72%, 68%, 67% and
55% in Brazil, Germany, Mexico and US respectively). Such tendencies were also found to be true for
top 5-10% of the Indian companies.
Desire for male child: Indian society exhibits a strong desire for male child. It pointed out that most
parents continued to have children until they get number of sons. Various scenarios leading to
skewed sex ratios have been mentioned in survey and it also gave comparison on sex ratio by birth
between India and Indonesia.
Tax disputes: Tax departments in India have gone in for contesting against in several tax disputes
but with low success rate which is below 30%. About 66% of pending cases accounted for only 1.8% of

value at stake. It further stated that 0.2% of cases accounted for 56% of value at stake.
Impact of climate change on agricultural yields: Extreme temperature increases and deficiency in
rainfall have due to climate change and its impact on agricultural yields has been captured in survey.
The impact was found to be twice as large in un-irrigated areas as in irrigated ones.
January 30, 2018
Himachal Pradesh launches Zero Budget Natural Farming project to promote organic farming
January 30, 2018
Himachal Pradesh Government has launched Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF) project to
promote organic farming. It was launched by Chief Minister, Jai Ram Thakur. The project aims to
increase agriculture produce and the income of farmers by the year 2022.
Zero Budget Natural Farming (ZBNF)
ZBNF is set of natural farming methods where cost of growing and harvesting plants is zero. It is a
farming practice that believes in natural growth of crops without adding any fertilizers and
pesticides or any other foriegn elements. It is different from organic farming.
The word Zero Budget refers to zero net cost of production of all crops. This means that farmers
need not purchase fertilizers and pesticides in order to ensure the healthy growth of crops. The
inputs used for seed treatments and other inocluations are locally available in form of cowdung and
cow urine.
It requires almost no monetary investment and envisages use of ‘Jeevamrutha’ and ‘Beejamrutha’.
The main aim of ZBNF is eliminate use of chemical pesticides and uses biological pesticides and
promote of good agronomic practices. Farmers use earthworms, cow dung, urine, plants, human
excreta and such biological fertilizers for crop protection.
It lowers cost of inputs of farmers and gives better capacity to increase the incomes. It also protects
soil from degradation and helps in retaining soil fertility and is climate change resilient.
Hicky’s Bengal Gazette: 238th anniversary of India’s first newspaper celebrated
January 30, 2018
Journalists and social activists celebrated 238th anniversary of India’s first newspaper the Hicky’s
Bengal Gazette. 29 January is also celebrated Hicky’s Day to pay tributes to the fighter-journalist
James Augustus Hicky who is considered as founder of journalism in India.
Hicky’s Bengal Gazette
Hicky’s Bengal Gazette (Original Calcutta General Advertiser) was an English language weekly
newspaper published in Kolkata (then Calcutta), the then capital of British India. It was founded by
James Augustus Hicky. It began publication on January 29, 1780 and was published for two years. It
was the first newspaper printed in Asia. The newspaper in its time was strong critic of
administration of Governor General Warren Hastings. It was important for its provocative
journalism well before its time and its fight for free expression in India.
President Ram Nath Kovind pitches for simultaneous elections
January 30, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind has called for simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha and state assemblies.
He made this state while addressing the joint sitting of Parliament on the commencement of the
Budget Session.
He made this statement arguing that frequent elections impede speed of development as officials
have to assist in conducting polls. He called for sustained debate on subject of simultaneous elections
and urged all political parties to arrive at consensus on this issue.
Need for simultaneous elections
Frequent elections affect the governance as imposition of model code of conduct in poll bound areas puts on hold
all developmental activities on that area and also affects the bureaucracy’s functioning.
Elections in India are big-budget exercise. Expenditure can be reduced by conducting simultaneous elections.
Law Commission in its 170th report titled Reform of Electoral Laws (1999) had suggested holding simultaneous
elections at all levels for stability in governance.
Frequent elections disrupt normal public life and affect functioning of essential services. Moreover, frequent
elections lead to frequent disruption of road traffic by political rallies and also lead to noise pollution.
Crucial manpower especially teachers is often deployed on election duties for prolonged period of time. If

simultaneous elections are held, then this manpower will be made available for other important tasks.
Difficulties
Not all voters are highly educated to know who to vote for. They may get confused and may not know whether
they are voting for candidates contesting assembly or parliament elections.
Frequent elections bring politicians back to the voters, create jobs (though temporary) and prevent the mixing of
local and national issues in the minds of the voters.
The issue of logistics and requirement of security personnel, election and administrative officials needs to be
considered.
There is dearth of enough security and administrative officials to conduct simultaneous free and fair elections
throughout the country in one go.
Mostly elections in big states are held various phases mainly due to security concerns. If this is situation, holding
simultaneous elections for all the states, it may need to be held in many phases stretching over many months.
Background
The idea of ‘one nation one election’ has been proposed for many years starting with Law
Commission suggestion in 1999. Most recently, Parliament’s standing committee 2015 report
suggested holding simultaneous election to save public money and end policy paralysis because of
impact of the model code of conduct. It had pegged the cost of holding elections for Lok Sabha and
state assemblies at Rs. 4500 crore. Prime Minister Narendra Modi too had pitched for this idea.
India becomes third largest producer of crude steel
January 30, 2018
According to recent report published by World Steel Association (WSA), India has overtaken US to
become the world’s third largest steel producer in 2017. India’s crude steel production has grown by
6.2% to 101.4 million tonnes (MT) in 2017 compared to 95.5 MT in the previous year.
Key Facts
China has remained world leader by producing 831.7 MT in 2017, up 5.7% from 786.9 MT in the year-
ago period. Japan is second largest global steel producer and had witnessed negative growth in steel
output declined by 0.1% to 104.7 MT in 2017 from 104.8 MT in 2016.
The Global steel production had reached 1,691.2 MT in 2017, up by 5.3% compared to 2016 when
output was 1,606.3 MT. Crude steel production increased in all regions in 2017 except in CIS
(Commonwealth of Independent States), which has remained stable.
World Steel Association (WSA)
WSA is a non-profit organisation and is one of the largest industry associations in world. Its
members represent approximately 85% of the world’s steel production. It includes over 160 steel
producers with 9 of the 10 largest steel companies, national and regional steel industry associations,
and steel research institutes. It was founded in July 1967 and is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium.
January 31, 2018
Soumitra Chatterjee presented with France’s Legion d’Honneur
January 31, 2018
Legendary Bengali actor Soumitra Chatterjee (83) was awarded France’s highest civilian award,
Legion d’Honneur. He was presented the medal by French Ambassador Alexandre Ziegler at a
function in Kolkata, West Bengal.
Chatterjee was awarded in recognition of his remarkable career and his outstanding contribution in
promoting Indian cinema in France and his long-standing attraction for our country.
Soumitra Chatterjee
He was born on 19 January 1935 in Mirjapur Street, Calcutta in West Bengal. In his acting career
spanning almost six decades, he has acted in more than 200 films. He had debuted in his mentor
Satyajit Ray’s film Apur Sansar (1959) and went on to work with director in 14 films.
Besides acting, he has also dabbled in painting, written and directed plays, composed poems, edited
Bengali magazine and is also a much-acclaimed elocutionist.
He has been awarded Padma Bhushan (2004), India’s highest award in cinema Dadasaheb Phalke
Award (2012). In 1999, he became first Indian to be awarded with Commandeur de l’ Ordre des Arts et
des Lettres, France’s highest award for artistes.

Legion d’Honneur
Officier de la Légion d’Honneur (Officer of the Legion of Honour) was created in 1802 by first
emperor of France Napoleon Bonaparte. It is the highest civilian award given by the French
government to person for his outstanding service to France, regardless of the nationality. Actors
Amitabh Bachchan and Shahrukh Khan were also awarded in 2007 and 2014. Other Indians who were
also awarded are Amartya Sen, Ravi Shankar, Zubin Mehta, Lata Mangeshkar, JRD Tata and Ratan
Tata among others.
Government inks $100 Million loan agreement for Project to Boost Rural Economy of Tamil Nadu
January 31, 2018
The Union Government has inked $100 million Loan Agreement with World Bank for Project to Boost
Rural Economy of Tamil Nadu. The loan is from the International Bank for Reconstruction and
Development (IBRD) and has a 5-year grace period and maturity of 19 years.
Tamil Nadu Rural Transformation Project
The project aims to promote rural enterprises, facilitate their access to finance and create
employment opportunities for youth, particularly women in selected blocks of Tamil Nadu across 26
districts. It will create enabling environment for producer organizations and enterprises to promote
businesses across select value chains.
The project will be operational in 120 blocks across 3,994 villages in 26 Districts of Tamil Nadu with
411,620 direct beneficiaries. It will be rolled out in phased manner and in first phase 26 blocks will
covered in all project districts, followed by 52 blocks in second phase and remaining 42 blocks in
third phase.
Under this project, communities will identify commodities and subsectors in the value chain for
preparing business plans based on the analysis. 30% of the financing for these s plans will be through
matching grant program from project and remaining 70% will be leveraged from other financial
institutions.
The project will work with targeted households that are already part of Self-Help Groups (SHGs). It
will also specifically support eligible households from socially and culturally disadvantaged groups to
harness their existing assets, skills, and resources.
It will also test selected innovations and start-up ideas or scaled up them under newly created
platform known as Tamil Nadu Rural Transformation Marketplace. This platform will identify,
showcase and celebrate innovative solutions related to themes that have potential to impact rural
economic growth in state.
Moreover, it will have e-governance architecture with use of ICT along with a robust Management
Information System (MIS) to monitor and track results real time.
Vinod Paul: First Indian to receive WHO’s IhsanDogramaci Family Health Foundation Prize
January 31, 2018
NITI Aayog member Dr Vinod Paul became first Indian to be awarded prestigious IhsanDoğramacı
Family Health Foundation Prize by World Health Organisation (WHO). It will be formally presented
at World Health Assembly to be held in Geneva, Switzerland in May 2018.
Background
He was selected unanimously for the prestigious award by WHO Board from six other shortlisted
candidates from Algeria, China, Malaysia, Mexico, Russian Federation, Uzbekistan for distinguished
contributions towards improving the health and well-being of families, especially in developing
countries.
Dr Vinod Paul
Dr Paul is internationally renowned researcher, clinician, educator and public health advocate in the
area of family health, with special focus on newborn health. His efforts have brought long-neglected
issue of newborn health to centre-stage of strategies for Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and
Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He is instrumental in establishing the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child Health in
2005-06. He is recognized world over as leading expert in universal health coverage and human
resources for health.
He has played key role in formulating national child health guidelines and programmes in India.
Prior to joining as Member, NITI Aayog, he was head of the Department of Pediatrics at AIIMS, New

Delhi.
He has published numerous articles on various issues, including on children’s, women’s and
adolescents’ health, in international peer-reviewed journals and several books and monographs. His
book on paediatrics is standard textbook for medical students in India and several other countries.
IhsanDoğramacı Family Health Foundation Prize
WHO’s IhsanDoğramacı Family Health Foundation Prize is global honour conferred in recognition to
services in field of family health. It was established in 1980 to promote and raise standard of family
health by acknowledging individuals who have given distinguished service in this field. It is named
after Professor Ihsan Doğramacı, a paediatrician and child health specialist.
Government inks $250 Million Loan Agreement with ADB to Improve Rural Connectivity in 5 States
January 31, 2018
The Union Government has inked $250 Million Loan Agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB)
to Improve Rural Connectivity in 5 States viz. Assam, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and
West Bengal under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). The loan proceeds will be used to
finance the construction of 6,254 kilometres all-weather rural roads in these 5 States under the
PMGS).
Key Facts
It is first tranche Loan of the $500 million Second Rural Connectivity Investment Program for India
approved by the ADB Board in December 2017. The program is aimed to improve rural connectivity,
facilitate safer and more efficient access to livelihood and socio-economic opportunities for rural
communities through improvements to about 12,000 kms Rural Roads across 5 States.
Significance of ADB-funded investment program
Provide continued assistance to PMGSY and support the Government’s long-term goal for rural development.
It will have transformative impact in terms of rural economy and will bring greater efficiency in terms of access
and connectivity for rural people in 5 States.
Under it about 2,000 technical personnel will be imparted training on road safety and maintenance.
It will also support Government’s drive for innovative approaches to reduce costs, conserve non-renewable
natural resources and promote use of waste materials in rural road construction.
It builds upon $800 million ADB-financed first Rural Connectivity Investment Program in 2012 that added about
9,000 kms of all-weather rural roads in the same States.
The road designs under it take into account climate risks (such as increased rainfall and storm surges) with
measures such as greater elevation of road embankments, slope protection, and better drainage.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
PMGSY was launched in year 2000 as a Centrally Sponsored Scheme with an objective to provide
single all-weather road connectivity to all eligible unconnected rural villages (habitations). The Union
Ministry of Rural Development is nodal implementing authority. It was fully funded scheme by the
central government.
Mihir: High performance computing facility inaugurated at Noida
January 31, 2018
Ministry of Earth Science (MoES) has inaugurated high performance computer system (HPC) or
supercomputer Mihir (meaning sun) at National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting
(NCMRWF), Noida.
The HCP will provide facility for improving weather/climate forecasts. It is country’s largest HPC
facility in terms of peak capacity and performance. It also propelled India’s ranking to Top 30 in the
list of HPC facilities in world.
Key Facts
With this, MoES has acquired HPC facility total of 6.8 Peta Flops (PF) which has been installed at two
of its constituent units: 4.0 PF HPC facility named ‘Pratyush’ at Indian Institute of Tropical
Meteorology (IITM), Pune and 2.8 Peta Flops facility at NCMRWF, Noida. It also improved India rank
to 4th position after Japan, UK and US interms of dedicated HPC resources for weather/climate
forecasts.
Mihir HPC facility will improve following services
Weather forecasts at block level over India which can predict extreme weather events.

High resolution seasonal and extended range forecasts of active and break spells of Monsoon.
Very high resolution coupled models for prediction of cyclones with more accuracy and lead time.
Ocean state forecasts including marine water quality forecasts at very high resolution.
Tsunami forecasts with greater lead time.
Air quality forecasts for various cities.
Climate projections at very high resolution.
Significance of new HPC facility
Help in meeting operational requirements of MoES and also support research and development activities on
various problems related to Earth Science.
Help MoES in developing several services for societal benefits catering by building state-of-the-art systems for
multi-hazard risk reduction from floods/droughts, cyclones, heat/cold waves, earthquakes and tsunamis.
Government launches GeM 3.0
January 31, 2018
The Ministry of Commerce & Industry has launched third version of the Government e-Marketplace
(GeM 3.0) . The earlier version GeM 2.0 was launched as pilot project in August 2016.
GeM 3.0 will offer standardised and enriched catalogue management, powerful search engine, real
time price comparison, template-based Bid and RA creation, demand aggregation, e-EMD, e-PBG,
user rating, advanced MIS and analytics and more.
Government e-Marketplace (GeM)
GeM is an Online Market platform to facilitate procurement of goods and services by various
Ministries and agencies of the Government. It has been envisaged as National Procurement Portal of
India
It aims to enhance transparency, efficiency and speed in public procurement of goods and services
and eliminate corruption. It functions under Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (DGS&D),
Ministry of Commerce and Industries. It is completely paperless, cashless and system driven e-
market place that enables procurement of common use goods and services with minimal human
interface.
GeM 3.0
It has powerful search engine and price comparison using third party sites – multisource and real
time. It has performance based User Rating and online vendor assessment (optional). It has market
based-bundling and bunching of products and services. It also has multi-Cart Functionality and
offers more Services with bid and RA Facility.
Benefits of GeM 3.0
Completely transparent transactions across all ranges
Market Based generic requirements across all government agencies
Open and dynamic market place with rating based on performance of user on website
Generic standards established through universal service levels and cost comparison enabled
Standardisation of specifications of both products and services enabling empirical price comparability
INS Karanj: Third submarine of Scorpene class launched
January 31, 2018
Indian Navy has launched Scorpene submarine INS Karanj at the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd
(MDL), Mumbai, Maharashtra. It the third Scorpene class submarine built by MDL under ambitious
Project 75 of the Indian Navy.
INS Karanj has been named after older submarine as per Indian naval tradition that was in operation
from 1969 to 2003. It served country for 34 years and was also part of operations in 1971.
Key Facts
INS Karanj has an overall length of 67.5 metres and height of about 12.3 metres. Its hull form, fin and
hydroplanes are specifically designed to produce minimum underwater resistance.
In all, six scorpion submarines being indigenously built at MDL under Project 75 with help of French
naval defence and energy company DCNS. The first of these, INS Kalvari was commissioned in
December 2017 and second, INS Khanderi is undergoing sea trials. Remaining 4 submarines will be
inducted gradually by 2020.
These are diesel-electric attack submarines equipped with anti-ship missile. The first four

submarines will be conventional, while last two will be equipped with the Air Independent Propulsion
(AIP) system, which will enable them to stay underwater for longer duration.
The state-of-the-art Scorpene submarines have superior stealth and ability to launch crippling
attacks with precision-guided weapons. The attacks can be carried out with torpedoes both while
submerged or on urface — in all war theatres, including the tropics.
Thar Link Express receives extension for three more years
January 31, 2018
India and Pakistan have extended agreement of Thar Link Express, second solitary rail service
between both countries for three more years i.e. till 2021. The Thar Express links Jodhpur (India) and
Karachi (Pakistan) via Munabao (Rajasthan)-Khokhrapar (Sindh province) border crossing and carries
only passengers.
Thar Link Express is Indian portion of international passenger train operated weekly by Indian
Railway using its own coaches and locomotives, between Jodhpur and Munabao. Passengers from
Munabao clear customs and are transported to across border to Zero Point station where Thar
Express takes passengers to Karachi, Pakistan.
Background
The agreement to link the two countries by rail service through Munabao-Khokhrapar link was
signed in 2006 to facilitate people-to-people contact. It was set to expire in March 2018, but has now
been extended to January 31, 2021. The Munabao-Khokhrapar link was destroyed during 1965 war
between two countries but the service was again revived after 41 years in February 2006.
India and Pakistan Rail service
India and Pakistan currently have only two trans-border trains. They are
Samjhauta Express: Operates on Delhi-Lahore route via Attari-Wagah border crossing. It carries both
passengers and freight.
Thar Express: It links Jodhpur (India) and Karachi (Pakistan) via Munabao-Khokhrapar border crossing. It
carries only passengers.
India 6th wealthiest country: New World Wealth Report
January 31, 2018
According to New World Wealth Report, India was ranked sixth in list of wealthiest countries with
total wealth of US $8,230 billion in 2017.
The total wealth, refers to private wealth held by all individuals living in each country/city. It
includes all their assets (property, cash, equities, business interests) less any liabilities. However it
excludes government funds.
Key Facts
Top 10 Wealthiest Countries are United States (1st, total wealth held US $ 64,584 billion), China (2nd,
$24,803 billion), Japan (3rd, $19,522 billion), United Kingdom (4th, $9,919 billion), Germany (5th,
$9,660 billion), France (7th, $6,649 billion), Canada (8th, $6,393 billion), Australia (9th, $6,142 billion)
and Italy (10th, $4,276 billion).
Meanwhile, during period under consideration global wealth rose by 12% (from US $192 trillion at the
end of 2016 to US %215 trillion at the end of 2017) and China’s wealth saw an increase of 22% .
India was best performing wealth market globally in 2017 as its total wealth swelled from US $6,584
billion in 2016 to US $8,230 billion in 2017, registering a 25% growth. Over the past decade
(2007-2017) India’s total wealth increased from US $3,165 billion in 2007 to US $8,230 billion in 2017, a
jump of 160%.
India is home to 3,30,400 HNWIs (individuals with US $1 million or more in net assets). Globally,
India was ranked 9th in this aspect while US topped the list with 50,47,400 HNWIs (high-net-worth
individuals).
India is also home to 20,730 multi-millionaires, 7th largest in world and in terms of resident
billionaires (individuals with US $1 billion or more in net assets), India with 119 such individuals was
named among the top three countries globally, after US and China.


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Current Affairs Today: Monthly PDF Compilation

Last Updated: February 8, 2018

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Month Highlights: January – 2018

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Saudi Arabia, UAE introduce VAT for first time

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Government launches NARI portal and e-Samvad portal

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Lok Sabha passes Bill to hike salaries of judges

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CCEA approves continuation of Members of Parliament Local Area Development Scheme

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