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Current Affairs [PDF] - February 1-15, 2020

@upsc_thoughts
Last Updated: February 19, 2020

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Current Affairs [PDF] - February 1-15, 2020
Contents
......................... ......... ... ....... ...... ...... ...............................................
News Headlines: February 1-15, 2020 ....................................................................................................................................................... 3
– News Headlines: February 1, 2020 ................................................................................................................................................. 3
– News Headlines: February 2, 2020 ................................................................................................................................................ 3
Union Budget 2020-21: Highlights .................................................................................................................................................... 4
– News Headlines: February 4, 2020 ............................................................................................................................................... 6
– News Headlines: February 9, 2020 .............................................................................................................................................. 10
– News Headlines: February 10, 2020 ............................................................................................................................................. 11
– News Headlines: February 13, 2020 ............................................................................................................................................ 14
– News Headlines: February 14, 2020 ............................................................................................................................................ 14
@upsc_thoughts

February 1, 2020 .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Economic Survey: National Food Security Act Coverages should be reduced ....................................................................... 16
Economic Survey suggests “Assemble In India Model” to create 80 million jobs ................................................................ 17
Corona Virus: India bans respiratory masks export as Indians evacuated from China ......................................................... 17
India-Africa Defence Ministers Conclave at DefExpo for first time .......................................................................................... 17
Fiscal Deficit of GoI touched 132% of full year target ................................................................................................................. 18
Budget 2020-21 presented by Finance Minister: The Themes, GST Reforms ...................................................................... 18
Budget 2020: 2.83 lakh Crore Rupees allocated to Agriculture and Rural Development .................................................. 19
Budget 2020: Wellness, Water and Sanitation ............................................................................................................................... 21
Budget 2020: 99,300 crores and 3,000 crores allocated for Education and Skill Development ..................................... 22
February 2, 2020 ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Budget 2020: Economic Development-Commerce, Industries and Infrastructure ............................................................... 22
Budget 2020: Caring Society: Women and Child, Social Welfare, Culture & Tourism, Env & Climate Change ........... 26
Budget 2020: Governance ................................................................................................................................................................. 27
Budget 2020: Financial Sector .......................................................................................................................................................... 28
February 3, 2020 ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 29
India-Maldives sign MoU to establish Addu Tourism ................................................................................................................. 29
Matla Abhiyan: Coastal Security Exercise conducted by Indian Navy ..................................................................................... 29
Mohammed Allawi appointed the PM of Iraq amidst Tishreen Revolution in the country ................................................ 30
National Emergency Declared in Pakistan to fight against Locusts in the border ................................................................ 30
Corona virus: G7 Health Ministerial meet, China’s New Hospital, Travel ban by 4 countries ......................................... 30
Import duty on Green Energy Equipment hiked by 20% in Budget 2020-21 ....................................................................... 31
National Calamity Contingent Duty increased in Budget-Concerns of Tobacco institute ................................................... 31
Portal Santusht launched: To implement policies of Labour Ministry at grass root level .................................................... 32
SFURTI Scheme update given in the Parliament-Rs 2.3 crores budget allocated ................................................................. 32
APEDA signs MoU to set up a Liason Office in Guwahati, Assam .......................................................................................... 32
February 4, 2020 ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
Minister of North East Development chairs Ujh (National) Multipurpose Project, Jammu Kashmir ............................... 33
February 4: World Cancer Day ......................................................................................................................................................... 33
Facts Box: World Wetlands Day ........................................................................................................................................................ 33
Australian Open: Novak Djokovic won the title for the eighth time ....................................................................................... 34
PMMVY awards: Madhya Pradesh wins; Manipur won among NE states ............................................................................. 34
Supreme Court directs states to set up Gram Nyayalayas .......................................................................................................... 35
India develops new Vaccine to control Swine Fever .................................................................................................................... 35
New Natural Gas Reserves discovered in UAE .............................................................................................................................. 35
WHO report: Cancer Cases to increase by 81% in 2040 .......................................................................................................... 36
February 5, 2020 ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
Western Railways begins branding of its locomotives to improves its non-freight revenue ............................................... 36
© 2020 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 2
Udyanotsav inaugurated by the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan ............................................................................................. 36

WHO on Corona Virus: Virus is not yet pandemic ...................................................................................................................... 37
East Asia Summit on Maritime Cooperation to be held in Chennai ........................................................................................ 37
India-South Korea hold meeting to enhance Bilateral Security Cooperation ......................................................................... 37
National Productivity Council study: Fertilizer use reduced by 10% with the use of soil cards ......................................... 38
DefExpo 2020: India’s target in Defence Sector is 5 billion USD in next 5 years ................................................................ 38
DefExpo 2020: Uttar Pradesh is to sign 23 MoUs and create 3 lakh job opportunities ..................................................... 38
Cabinet approves amendment to bring Cooperative Banks under RBI Regulation .............................................................. 39
India Russia sign first ever Term Contract to import crude oil to India ................................................................................. 39
February 6, 2020 ......................................................................................................................................................................................... 39
The Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas bill introduced in Lok Sabha by the Finance Minister .................................................. 40
Pink City-Jaipur receives World Heritage Certificate from UNESCO ..................................................................................... 40
Atal Innovation Mission joins with several ministries to stimulate innovation in India ........................................................ 40
Cabinet approves to set up Vardhavan port in Maharashtra ...................................................................................................... 41
Karnataka launches Janasevaka Scheme .......................................................................................................................................... 41
Intellectual Property Index: India ranks 40th ................................................................................................................................. 41
Cabinet approves to give status of Institution of National Importance to 5 IIITs ................................................................. 42
Rakhi Halder wins gold medal at the Women’s National Weightlifting Championship ....................................................... 42
@upsc_thoughts
US President Donald Trump acquitted at the Senate .................................................................................................................. 42

RBI releases bi-monthly policy: Repo rate unchanged ................................................................................................................. 43
February 7-8, 2020 .................................................................................................................................................................................... 43
DRDO signs agreement with Russia’s Rosoboronexport at the DefExpo, 2020 ................................................................... 43
MPEDA to upgrade 25 fishing harbours in India ........................................................................................................................ 44
India International Seafood Show held in Kochi .......................................................................................................................... 44
14 MoUs signed at 5th India-Russia Industrial Conference ....................................................................................................... 44
Sharang artillery Gun inducted into Indian Army ........................................................................................................................ 45
Bandhan: Transfer of Technology Ceremony held at DefExpo ................................................................................................ 45
Pangolin identified as the host of Corona Virus in China ........................................................................................................... 45
WHO organizes Global Research Forum on Corona Virus ....................................................................................................... 46
RBI to release Digital Payment Index by July 2020 ..................................................................................................................... 46
February 9, 2020 ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 46
India-Central Asia Business Council launched in New Delhi ..................................................................................................... 46
DefExpo: India-UK sign MoU to strengthen Defence and Aerospace Relations ................................................................... 47
First Disha Police Station inaugurated in Andhra Pradesh to work on violence against women ...................................... 47
BBIN nations deliberated on MoU to implement Motor Vehicle Agreement ........................................................................ 48
National Conference on E-Governance held in Mumbai; National E-Governance Awards presented ............................ 48
Facts Box: Lucknow Declaration of India-Africa Defence Ministers’ Conclave .................................................................... 48
Sri Lankan Prime Minister visits India: Terrorism and Trade discussed ................................................................................. 49
Best Performing Smart Cities paired up with least performing to work as SISTER CITIES ............................................. 49
February 9: Ravidas Jayanti celebrated across India .................................................................................................................... 49
February 10, 2020 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 50
Kaamya Karthikeyan: Mumbai Girl becomes the youngest to climb Mt Aconcagua .......................................................... 50
Africa Union Summit held at Addis Ababa .................................................................................................................................... 50
Parth: World’s Cheapest Gun Shot Locator developed by Indian Army .................................................................................. 51
Corona Virus Ranking: India ranks 17 in importing Corona Virus ........................................................................................... 51
NASA sends probes to map poles of the sun ................................................................................................................................. 51
Cauvery Delta of Tamil Nadu declared Protected Agricultural Zone ...................................................................................... 52
NCRB report on women and child trafficking: Mumbai and Kolkata highest ....................................................................... 52
India to host 13th COP of UN’s Conservation of Migratory Species; PM Modi to inaugurate .......................................... 52
National Snooker championship: Aditya Mehta defeats multiple time world champion ..................................................... 53
February 10: National Deworming Day .......................................................................................................................................... 53
February 11, 2020 ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 53
First Jerusalem-Mumbai festival held in Mumbai .......................................................................................................................... 53
Ajeya Warrior: India-UK to hold joint military exercise .............................................................................................................. 54
Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2020 won by Bangladesh for the first time ............................................................................ 54
United Nations World Pulses Day celebrated in New Delhi ....................................................................................................... 55
Web Portal launched to provide star rating of coal mines .......................................................................................................... 55
Amazon invests 1.5 billion USD for two Data Centres under Data Centre Policy of Telangana ....................................... 55
Public Enterprises Survey: Air India, MTNL, BSNL highest loss makings PSUs in FY19 .................................................... 56
Disaster Management Exercise of BIMSTEC NDRF begins in Bhubaneswar ....................................................................... 56
February 11: International Day of Women and Girls in Science ................................................................................................ 56
Sale of Integrated Air Defence Weapon System to India approved by US ............................................................................. 57
February 12, 2020 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 57
WHO names the new Corona Virus: “COVID-19” ...................................................................................................................... 57
Medical Devices now to be regulated under Drugs and Cosmetics Act ................................................................................. 57
Bhabha Kavach: New bullet proof jacket developed by BARC-to be used by CISF ............................................................ 58
Ground Water Act, 2020 approved by UP cabinet ...................................................................................................................... 58
GoI released Draft Visionary Perspective Plan (2020-30) to Conserve Avian Ecosystem ahead of CMS COP-13 ...... 58
Corona Virus Vaccine: UK starts testing on Mice; WHO says vaccine to be ready in 18 months ..................................... 59
February 11: World Unani Day: Birth Anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan celebrated .......................................................... 59
National Winter Games to be held in Gulmarg ............................................................................................................................ 59
43rd Session of International fund for Agricultural Development: UN SDG 2030 not achievable ................................. 60
Cabinet Approves amendment of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement with Sri Lanka .............................................. 60
February 13, 2020 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 60
Cabinet Approval: Capital Infusion in three public sector Units OICL, UIICL and NICL ................................................... 60
Cabinet Approval: India-Iceland MoU in Sustainable Fisheries Development ........................................................................ 61
@upsc_thoughts
Cabinet approves Pesticide Management Bill 2020 ...................................................................................................................... 61

Cabinet approves changes in Vivad Se Vishwas bill, 2020 ......................................................................................................... 62
Ayushman Bharat: School Health Ambassador initiative launched .......................................................................................... 62
February 13: World Radio Day .......................................................................................................................................................... 62
Draft Rules for International Arbitration Centre issued by GoI ................................................................................................ 63
“Apiary on Wheels” launched: A Unique Concept to help bee keeping, achieve National Honey Mission .................... 63
BIMSTEC: Conference on Combating Drug Trafficking inaugurated ................................................................................... 64
INS Jamuna deployed on Hydrographic Survey off coast Sri Lanka ....................................................................................... 64
February 14, 2020 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 64
President’s Colours Awards to INS Shivaji on its 75 years of Service .................................................................................... 64
Foreign Envoys from Gulf and EU visit Jammu and Kashmir for the second time .............................................................. 65
GoI hosts National Organic Food Festival in New Delhi ............................................................................................................ 65
India to partially open up Poultry and Diary Markets to imports from US ............................................................................ 65
International Hockey Federation names Indian Hockey Captain “Player of the Year”, 2019 ............................................ 66
Portugal President to make a 4-day visit to India ........................................................................................................................ 66
UN’s IFAD Governing Council: Climate Change will push 100 millions to poverty ........................................................... 67
Antarctica recorded the hottest temperature of 20.75 degrees Celsius ................................................................................. 67
India-Portugal sign 7 agreements .................................................................................................................................................... 67
GoI approves two AIIMS institutes and 9 medical colleges for Jammu and Kashmir ........................................................ 68
February 15, 2020 ....................................................................................................................................................................................... 68
India attends Munich Security Conference in Germany ............................................................................................................. 68
Cha-Chai Art Work inaugurated at National Museum by Portuguese president ................................................................. 68
Anniversary of Pulwama Attack: Memorial inaugurated ............................................................................................................ 69
First Inter-City Electric Bus to operate between Mumbai and Pune ....................................................................................... 69
IISS Study: World Defence spending biggest in 10 years ........................................................................................................... 69
February 15: World Pangolin Day; GoI radio tagged Pangolins first time to learn their Ecology ..................................... 70
“Global Investor Summit” for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir; Road Shows to attract investments ..................... 71
Milan 2020: Biggest Multilateral Naval Exercise in the Indian Ocean Region ....................................................................... 71
Nagpur Oranges Exported to Dubai first Time ............................................................................................................................. 71
First Integrated Tri-Service Command to be set up in June by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) .................................. 72
Quiz: February 01, 2020 ............................................................................................................................................................................ 72
Quiz: February 02-03, 2020 ..................................................................................................................................................................... 75
Quiz: February 04, 2020 ........................................................................................................................................................................... 78
Quiz: February 05, 2020 ............................................................................................................................................................................ 81
Quiz: February 06, 2020 ........................................................................................................................................................................... 84
Quiz: February 07, 2020 ........................................................................................................................................................................... 87
Quiz: February 08, 2020 ........................................................................................................................................................................... 90
Quiz: February 09-10, 2020 ..................................................................................................................................................................... 93
Quiz: February 11, 2020 ............................................................................................................................................................................. 95
Quiz: February 12, 2020 ............................................................................................................................................................................ 98

Quiz: February 13, 2020 ........................................................................................................................................................................... 101
Quiz: February 14, 2020 .......................................................................................................................................................................... 104
Quiz: February 15, 2020 .......................................................................................................................................................................... 106
@upsc_thoughts
News Headlines: February 1-15, 2020

– News Headlines: February 1, 2020
India
Budget Session of Parliament starts with an address by President Ram Nath Kovind to the joint sitting
of two Houses of Parliament
Economic Survey 2019-20 Highlights
The Economic Survey 2019-20 was tabled in Parliament on January 31, 2020.
Theme: Enable Markets, Promote ‘Pro-Business’ Policies and Strengthen ‘Trust’ in the Economy
GDP growth pegged at 6-6.5% in fiscal year starting April 1, up from 5% in current fiscal
Share of formal employment increased from 17.9% in 2011 -12 to 22.8% in 2017-18
India ranks 3rd in number of new firms created; 1,24,000 new firms created in 2018
To achieve GDP of USD 5 trillion by 2024-25, India needs to spend about USD 1.4 trillion over these
years on infrastructure
Economy & Corporate
@upsc_thoughts
revises downwards the economic growth rate for 2018-19 to 6.1% from 6.8% estimated earlier
Alliance Air, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Air India, launches Bhubaneswar-Varanasi flight; 250th
route operationalised under RCS – UDAN (Regional Connectivity Scheme – Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik)
India bans export of all kind of respiratory masks used to protect people from air borne particles
Auto component maker Omega Seiki launches electric three wheeled cargo vehicles under brands
Singha and Singha Max
Abidali Z Neemuchwala quits as CEO and MD of Wipro
World
Ajay Bisaria appointed India’s High Commissioner to Canada
WHO announces ‘public health emergency of international concern’ over the coronavirus crisis in
China and other nations
Indian-origin Arvind Krishna named new CEO of IBM
Dr Pratap Chauhan of Jiva Ayurveda wins Ayurveda Ratan Award at the European Parliament in
Brussels, Belgium
NASA decommissions Spitzer Space Telescope after 16 years of operation
Daniel K. Inouye Solar Telescope (DKIST), the world’s largest solar telescope in Hawaii (US), captures
its first image of the sun
China: Year of the Rat starts with the Spring Festival on January 25
Sports
Australian Open tennis in Melbourne: France’s Kristina Mladenovic and Timea Babos of Hungary win
women’s doubles title
Russia’s David Paravyan wins Gibraltar International Chess Masters Festival
Indian women’s team captain Rani Rampal becomes first ever hockey player to win World Games
Athlete of the Year’ award
India beat New Zealand via Super Over in the fourth T20 International at Westpac Stadium, Wellington
India
Coronavirus outbreak in China: 324 Indians evacuated from Wuhan city in Air India plane
Gopal Baglay appointed India’s new High Commissioner to Sri Lanka.
‘Veer Smriti’ memorial for 357 Army and Assam Rifles personnel killed while fighting insurgency in
Nagaland inaugurated at Mokokchung
AP Govt. launches doorstep pension delivery scheme ‘YSR Pension Kanuka’

Sahitya Akademi Awardee winner Punjabi writer Jaswant Singh Kanwal dies at 101 in Moga district of
Punjab
Economy & Corporate
Pramod Agrawal assumes charge as the new CMD of Coal India Ltd
3rd private train of the IRCTC to run between Indore and Varanasi as Humsafar Express: Railway
Board Chairman Vinod Kumar Yadav
World
Maldives officially rejoins Commonwealth more than three years after quitting over criticism of its
human rights record
Pakistan declares national emergency to battle locusts destroying crops
Bestselling author Mary Higgins Clark dies at the age of 92
Sports
Australian Open tennis: Sofia Kenin (US) wins women’s singles title; Barbora Krejčíková (Czech
@upsc_thoughts
Republic) & Nikola Mektić (Croatia) win mixed doubles title

Union Budget 2020-21: Highlights
Agriculture
Farm loan disbursal target for banks hiked by 11% to Rs 15 lakh crore for 2020-21
3,477 Sagar Mitras and 500 Fish Farmer Producer Organisations to involve youth in fisheries
extension
States asked to adopt three central model laws on agricultural land leasing, marketing and contract
farming
Farmers will be allowed to set up solar units on barren/fallow lands and supply power to grids
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Urja Suraksha Utthan Mahabhiyan (PM KUSUM) Scheme to be expanded; 20
lakh farmers would be provided funds to set up standalone solar pumps
Kisan Rail to be launched for cold supply chain to transport perishable goods
Krishi Udan scheme to be launched by Aviation Ministry to assist farmers in transporting agricultural
products
Disinvestment
Disinvestment proceeds pegged at Rs 1.20 lakh crore for 2020-21, up from Rs 65,000 crore in current
fiscal https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
Proposal to sell the balance government holding in IDBI Bank
Govt to sell part of stake in LIC through IPO
New Tax Slabs
New slabs introduced and tax rate for different slabs reduced if a taxpayer opts for foregoing
exemptions & deductions
No tax on annual income of up to Rs 2.5 lakh
Tax rate of 5% (as earlier) on annual income Rs 2.5 lakh-5 lakh
Tax rate of 10% on annual income Rs 5 lakh-Rs 7.5 lakh
Tax rate of 15% on annual income Rs 7.5 lakh-10 lakh
Tax rate of 20% on annual income Rs 10 lakh-2.5 lakh
Tax rate of 25% on annual income Rs 12.5 lakh-15 lakh
Tax rate of 30% on annual income above Rs 15 lakh
Customs
Customs duties on household appliances such as fans, grinders and mixers increased from 10% to
20%
Customs duties on printed circuit board assembly on cellular phones doubled to 20%
Customs duty on completely built units of commercial electric vehicles raised from 25% to 40%
Tobacco
For non-filter cigarettes below 65 mm, the excise duty increased from Rs 90 per thousand to Rs 200
per thousand
On filter cigarettes over 65 mm and up to 70 mm, the duty was hiked from Rs 145 per thousand to Rs
250 per thousand
Excise duty also increased on chewing tobacco, scented zarda, hookahs and snuff
Speech Length
Longest ever budget speech of over 2 hours 40 minutes, breaking her 2019 record of 2 hours and 17
minutes
Fiscal Deficit
Fiscal deficit of 3.8% (Revised Estimate) for 2019-20 and 3.5% (Budget Estimate) for 2020-21
Govt. Debt
@upsc_thoughts
Central government debt reduced to 48.7% of GDP (March 2019) from 52.2% (March 2014).
Deposit Insurance
Bank deposit insurance coverage increased to Rs 5 lakh from Rs 1 lakh
Defence Outlay
Defence outlay pegged at Rs 3.23 lakh crore in 2020-21, up from Rs 3.16 lakh crore this financial year
Tax Disputes
Under the ‘Vivad Se Vishwas’ scheme, a taxpayer will have to pay only the disputed taxes, and will get
a complete waiver of interest and penalty provided he pays by March 31, 2020
Railways
Railways got a budgetary allocation of Rs 70,000 crore and an outlay for capital expenditure
amounting to Rs 1.61 lakh crore, 3% more than the previous year
DDT
Dividend Distribution Tax (DDT) at the hands of companies abolished; dividend to be taxed at the
hands of recipients as per applicable slab
FPI
plans to increase investment limit of foreign portfolio investors (FPI) in corporate bonds from 9% to
15%
Exports
NIRVIK (Niryat Rin Vikas Yojana) scheme being launched to provide for higher insurance coverage,
reduction in premium for small exporters and simplified procedure for claim settlements
Cooperatives
Lower tax rates for cooperatives at 22% with 10% surcharge and 4%
Housing
Additional deduction up to Rs 1.5 lakh for interest paid on loans taken for an affordable house
extended till 31st March 2021
MSMES
MSMEs: Turnover threshold for audit increased to Rs 5 crore from Rs 1 crore for businesses carrying
out less than 5% business transactions in cash
India
India airlifts 2nd batch of 323 stranded Indians and 7 Maldivians from China’s coronavirus-hit Wuhan
city
Indian Navy conducts 5-day coastal security exercise ‘Matla Abhiyaan’ along the riverine border with
Bangladesh in West Bengal
Hindi poet-novelist Vinod Kumar Shukla presented inaugural Mathrubhumi Book of the Year award for
his translated book “Blue Is Like Blue” in Thiruvananthapuram
12th South Asia Conference organised by Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA) in New
Delhi
Economy & Corporate
ICICI Bank launches ‘iBox’ self-service delivery tool for customers to collect their deliverables like
debit cards and cheque books from the bank branch near to their home/office
World
India, Maldives sign MoUs for establishing Addu Tourism zone in five islands of Addu atoll
Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas announces cutting of all ties with Israel and the US over
Washington’s controversial Middle East plan
Mohammad Allawi appointed new Prime Minister of Iraq by President Barham Saleh
@upsc_thoughts
Sports
Australian Open tennis in Melbourne: Serbia’s Novak Djokovic wins men’s singles title; Rajeev Ram
(US) & Joe Salisbury (UK) win men’s doubles
India defeat New Zealand by 7 runs in 5th and final T20 International at Bay Oval in Mount
Maunganui; win series 5-0
81st National Table Tennis Championships in Hyderabad: PSPB’s Harmeet Desai (men’s), Haryana’s
Sutirtha Mukherjee (women’s) win singles titles
Indian Olympic Association invites BCCI President Sourav Ganguly to become the Goodwill
Ambassador of the Indian contingent at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics
Flame-throated bulbul ‘Rubigula’ unveiled as mascot for 36th National Games in Goa in October 2020;
is also the state bird of Goa
PMMVY Awards
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) awards presented by WCD Minister Smriti Irani
In the category of best performance since inception of the Scheme to States/ UTs having population
of more than 1 crore Madhya Pradesh was first. For States/ UTs having population of less than 1
crore, Dadra & Nagar Haveli was first.
Indore (MP) was first in district level award for States/UTs with population of more than 1 crore.
Mizoram (Serchhip) was first in district level award for States/UTs with population of less than 1
crore.
Under PMMVY (started in 2017), Rs 5000 is paid to pregnant women and lactating mothers for the
first living child of the family as compensation for wage-loss during childbirth and childcare.
India
SC directs states to issue notification for establishing ‘Gram Nyayalayas’ within four weeks
Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF): ‘Babenco: Tell Me When I Die’, by Brazilian filmmaker
Barbara Paz, wins Golden Conch Award for Best Documentary Film
3rd Defence Attaches Conference organised in New Delhi
“Sophisticated Analytical & Technical Help Institutes (SATHI)” launched by govt. boost creation of
science & technology infrastructure in the country
Indigenously developed low cost Classical Swine Fever vaccine, developed by Izatnagar (UP)-based
Indian Veterinary Research Institute (ICAR-IVRI), released
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar meets his Turkmenistan counterpart Rashid Meredov in New
Delhi
Kerala government declares n-coronavirus as a state disaster
Hubbali-Dharwad Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project inaugurated in Karnataka by Vice President
Kala Ghoda Art Festival being held in Mumbai from February 1 to 9
Economy & Corporate
LIC-owned IDBI Bank raises Rs 745 crore through issue of Basel III compliant tier 2 bonds
RBI Governor Shaktikanta Das named the Central Banker of the Year, Asia-Pacific 2020, by the Banker
magazine
L&T MBDA Missile Systems (LTMMSL), JV between Larsen & Toubro and Europe’s MBDA Missile
Systems, sets up missile integration facility in Tamil Nadu
BAFTA Awards
British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) awards presented in London
Best Film: ‘1917’
Best Film Not in the English Language: ‘Parasite’ (Korean) directed by Bong Joon-ho
@upsc_thoughts
Best Director: Sam Mendes for ‘1917’

Best Actor in a Leading Role: Joaquin Phoenix in ‘Joker’
Best Actress in a Leading Role: Renée Zellweger in ‘Judy Garland’
World
UK donates 20 million pounds to speed up vaccine against deadly coronavirus
World Wetlands Day observed on February 2; theme: ‘Wetlands and Biodiversity’
Sports
Anjali Saraogi (3:24.02) won women’s race the IDBI Federal Life Insurance Kolkata marathon; men’s
race won by Awadh Narayan Yadav (2:30:30)
India’s Ankita Raina wins singles title in $25,000 ITF women’s tennis tournament in Thailand
India
Karnataka govt. launches Janasevaka scheme for home delivery of services like ration cards
President opens annual Udyanotsav of the Mughal Gardens of Rashtrapati Bhavan; public can visit
gardens from February 5 to March 8
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay visiting India on February 4-6
India and Norway sign MoUs in the field of research and higher education during visit of Director-
General, Anne Line Wold, Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research
Veteran actress Waheeda Rehman gets MP Govt.’s Kishore Kumar Samman for 2018
Congress MLA and former Assam Assembly speaker Pranab Gogoi dies in Guwahati at 84
MEA to organise fourth East Asia Summit Conference on Maritime Security Cooperation in Chennai
on February 6-7
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh meets Defence Ministers of Qatar (Khalid bin Mohamed Al Attiyah)
and South Korea (Jeong Kyeongdoo) in New Delhi
No document will be collected during updation of National Population Register; providing Aadhaar
number voluntary: Govt
Frequency of Kolkata-Dhaka Maitree Express and Kolkata-Khulna Bandhan Express trains connecting
India and Bangladesh increased
World
World Cancer Day observed on February 4; theme for 2019 – 2021: ‘I Am and I Will’
Bhutan’s parliament passes legislation making it mandatory for visitors from India to pay a fee of Rs
1200 per day for its “sustainable development” from July 2020
Daniel arap Moi, Kenya’s longest-serving (24 years from 1978 to 2002) President, dies at 95 in Nairobi
Thai woman delivers a baby mid-air on Qatar Airways flight from Doha to Bangkok
India
‘Shri Ram Janmbhoomi Teerth Kshetra’ trust set up for constructing Ram temple at Ayodhya (UP)
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay presents World Heritage Certificate for the walled city of
Jaipur to Rajasthan government
Cabinet approves grant of Institution of National Importance (INI) status to 5 Indian Institutes of
Information Technology (IIITs) at Surat, Bhopal, Bhagalpur, Agartala and Raichur
Maharashtra CM presents lifetime achievement award of Mantralaya & Vidhimandal Vartahar Sangh
to Lokmat group journalist Dinkar Keshav Raikar
PM inaugurates 11th edition of DefExpo-2020, a flagship biennial event of the Ministry of Defence,
being organised in Lucknow from February 5 to 9
Economy & Corporate
@upsc_thoughts
Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduces ‘The Direct Tax Vivad se Vishwas Bill, 2020’ in the
Lok Sabha
Cabinet gives in-principle approval for setting up a new Major Port at Vadhavan in Maharashtra
Unemployment rate in the country was 6.1% in 2017-18 per the new Periodic Labour Force Survey
(PLFS): Minister of State for Labour Santosh Gangwar
Cabinet clears amendment to banking laws to strengthen cooperative banks; regulation will be done
by RBI and administrative issues will be handled by Registrar of Cooperative
Cabinet approves Air India’s subsidiary Alliance Air to start flights services between India, Sri Lanka
Mercedes Benz launches AMG GT 63S 4Matic 4-Door Coupe for Rs 2.42 crore
World
India ranked 40th among 53 economies on International Intellectual Property (IP) Index by US
Chamber of Commerce’s Global Innovation Policy Center; index topped by US
Britain’s Prince Charles launches Children’s Investment Fund Foundation (CIIF) focussed on reducing
the exploitation of children in India
Twitter to start labelling tweets containing “manipulated media” which aim to mislead people
Sports
New Zealand (348/6 in 48.1 overs) beat India (347/4 in 50 overs) by 4 wickets in first ODI at Seddon
Park, Hamilton
India
President presents International Gandhi Awards for Leprosy to Dr N S Dharmashaktu (Indian
nomination-individual category) and the Leprosy Mission Trust (institutional category)
Philip Barton appointed Britain’s new High Commissioner to India
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh holds talks with his Madagascan counterpart Lt Gen Rokotonirina
Richard in Lucknow
Indian firm JSR Dynamics launches indigenous 180 km strike range air to ground missile Khagantak
First India-Africa Defence Ministers’ Conclave held in Lucknow
India-Russia Military Industrial Conference (IRMIC) held in Lucknow
J&K administration renames Public Health Engineering & Irrigation and Flood Control Department
(PHE&IFC) as ‘Jal Shakti Department’
Glass floor bridge to replace Lakshman Jhula over Ganga in Rishikesh that was closed in 2019
Odia & English writer Manoj Das wins Mystic Kalinga Literary Award (Indian and Global Languages) in
Bhubaneswar
Monetary Policy Review
RBI opted for a status quo on benchmark interest rate in its sixth bi-monthly monetary policy
statement, 2019-20.
Policy repo rate under the liquidity adjustment facility (LAF) unchanged at 5.15%.
Consequently, the reverse repo rate under the LAF remains unchanged at 4.90%
Marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate unchanged at 5.40%
All six members of Monetary Policy Committee vote in favour of maintaining status quo on interest
rate
Accommodative stance to revive growth maintained; inflation to remain elevated in short-run
GDP growth for 2020-21 fiscal pegged at 6%
Retail inflation projection revised upwards to 6.5% for January-March quarter
Pricing of loans by banks for the medium enterprises to be linked to an external benchmark effective
April 1
@upsc_thoughts
Time for restructuring of GST-registered MSME loans extended till December 2020, from March 2020
at present
RBI to periodically publish a composite ‘Digital Payments Index’ (DPI) from July 2020
DPI will capture the extent of digitisation of payments
Economy & Corporate
India International Seafood Show (IISS) being organised by MPEDA and SEAI in Kochi from February 7
to 9; theme: “Blue Revolution – Beyond Production to Value Addition”
MPEDA: Marine Products Export Development Authority, SEAI: Seafood Exporters Association of India
Emami Group sells cement business to Nirma Group for Rs 5,500 crore
Mercedes-Benz launches luxury multipurpose vehicle V Class Marco Polo at Rs 1.38 crore
World
US President Donald Trump acquitted of all impeachment charges by Republican-majority Senate
US launches 27-nation International Religious Freedom Alliance aimed at protecting and preserving
religious freedom across the world
NASA’s Christina Koch returns to Earth after 328 days aboard the International Space Station; had
broken record for longest spaceflight of 289 days by a female held by another NASA astronaut Peggy
Whitson
Kirk Douglas, American actor, producer and director, dies at 103
International Day of Zero Tolerance to Female Genital Mutilation observed on February 6; theme:
“Unleashing Youth Power: One decade of accelerating actions for zero female genital mutilation”
Sports
Rohit Rajpal to continue as India’s Davis Cup captain
Sports Authority of India, Hockey India launch High Performance Centres in 7 places across the
country
India
PM participates in celebration of the Jan 27 signing of the Bodo Agreement at Kokrajhar in Assam
Kerala govt. to set up 1,000 ‘Kudumbashree’ hotels to provide subsidised meals at Rs 25
Haryana Govt. launches ‘Mukhya Mantri Parivar Samridhi Yojna’; Rs 6,000 per year will be given to
families having an annual income below Rs 1.80 lakh and land holdings up to five acres
Fashion show “Naturally North-East: The Naga Narrative”, curated by noted fashion designer Ritu Beri,
held at Surajkund Mela in Haryana
Indian Army Major Anoop Mishra develops world’s first bulletproof helmet against AK-47 bullets
under project Abhedya
Veteran cricket journalist and writer on film music Raju Bharatan dies at 86
Economy & Corporate
Foreign exchange reserves rise by $4.607 billion to $471.3 billion in the week to January 31
Agreement signed for Nepal’s largest hydropower project, the 900 MW Arun-III, being built with India’s
assistance
Hyderabad Metro Rail becomes 2nd largest operational Metro network in the country at 69 km; behind
Delhi Metro
Trujet starts Bidar-Bengaluru flight in Karnataka under RCS-UDAN (Regional Connectivity Scheme-Ude
Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme
Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) gets Initial Operational Clearance for production of the Light
Utility Helicopter https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
DRDO’s High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL), Pune signs contract with
@upsc_thoughts
Rosoboronexport, Russia for development of Advanced Pyrotechnic Ignition Systems

US companies Raytheon and Lockheed Martin sign MoU with PSU Bharat Dynamics Limited to explore
co-production of Javelin anti-tank guided missile system in India
Coal India Ltd subsidiary Northern Coalfields Ltd (NCL) sets up R&D centre SARAS for sustainable
mining
World
WHO Director General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus warns world running out of protective
equipment against Coronavirus
Botswana to start auction of elephant hunting licences ending ban imposed in 2014; has world’s
largest elephant population
Sports
Railways win both men’s and women’s trophies at the Senior National Weightlifting Championships in
Kolkata; Jeremy Lalrinnunga (men’s) and Mirabai Chanu (women’s) declared best lifters
India
PM Modi holds talks with Sri Lankan PM Mahinda Rajapaksa at Hyderabad House in New Delhi
Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board’s Real Time Pollution Monitoring System (RTPMS) wins
National e-Governance Award 2019-20 from the Centre
23rd National Conference on e-Governance organised in Mumbai
‘A Child of Destiny: An Autobiography’, book written by Prof. Ramakrishna Rao, released by Vice
President
110-year old Kalitara Mandal, the oldest voter of Delhi, casts her vote in Assembly polls
AP: First ‘Disha Police Station’ inaugurated in Rajamahendravaram city to exclusively handle cases of
crime against women and children
Police in Ghaziabad launch ‘Operation Nakail’ to verify identity of all auto-rickshaw drivers
Prasar Bharati Chairman A. Surya Prakash demits office after two terms
India Justice Report
Maharashtra ranked first among 18 large and mid-sized states on the capacity of justice delivery
system in India Justice Report-2019 prepared by Tata Trusts
Among states with a population of less than one crore, Goa ranked first
The report is based on publicly available data of entities like police, judiciary, prisons and legal aid
EoLI And MPI

Ease of Living Index (EoLI) and Municipal Performance Index (MPI) 2019 launched by Ministry of
Housing & Urban Affairs to help assess the progress made in cities through various initiatives
MPI will assess the performance of municipalities based on five enablers namely Service, Finance,
Planning, Technology and Governance
EoLI 2019 will facilitate the assessment of ease of living of citizens across three pillars: Quality of
Life, Economic Ability and Sustainability
Economy & Corporate
PFRDA (Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority) doubles minimum net worth for
pension fund managers to ₹50 cr
AAI (Airports Authority of India) awards contract for greenfield airport project at Hollongi in
Arunachal Pradesh to Gujarat- based Dineshchandra R. Agrawal Infracon Pvt Ltd.
Uttarakhand’s first-ever helicopter services started by Heritage Aviation from Dehradun’s
Sahastradhara helipad to Gauchar and Chinyalisaur under centre’s RCS-UDAN (Regional Connectivity
@upsc_thoughts
Scheme – Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme.

Centre and FICCI launch India-Central Asia Business Council to promote business in the region;
countries involved: India, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyz Republic, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan
MPEDA (Marine Products Export Development Authority) to take up upgradation and modernisation
25 fishing harbours in the country at a proposed outlay of Rs 2500 crore
World
World Bank chief economist Pinelopi Koujianou Goldberg resigns
French and Malian forces kill 20 Islamist extremists in the restive border zone in Africa’s Sahel region
where Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso meet
Sports
New Zealand (273 for 8 in 50) beat India (251 in 48.3) by 22 runs in second ODI at Eden Park,
Auckland to seal 3-match series 2-0
Indian boxers win 4 silvers and 1 bronze at 64th Bocskai Memorial Tournament in Debrecen in
Hungary
India’s Ankita Raina and Bibiane Schoofs of Netherlands win USD 25000 ITF women’s doubles tennis
event in Nonthaburi (Thailand)
Chief national badminton coach Pullela Gopichand gets honourable mention in 2019 International
Olympic Committee’s Coaches Lifetime Achievement Award
India
Reservation in promotions for government jobs is not a fundamental right: Supreme Court
Information and Broadcasting Ministry organising ‘Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat’ campaign across the
country from February 10 to 28 to promotes the spirit of national integration
Voter turnout in Delhi Assembly polls held on February 8 was 62.59%: EC
Foreigners who visited China after January 15 will not be allowed to enter India: DGCA
12-year old Kaamya Karthikeyan becomes world’s youngest girl to summit 6926 metre Mt Aconcagua,
the highest peak in South America
DRDO developing 200-km strike range tactical ballistic missile ‘Pranash’
Indian Army, private firm develop world’s cheapest gunshot locator named ‘Parth’
Maharashtra govt. to set up “Bharosa centre” in Raigad district to “monitor the impact of social media
on youth”
Veteran Hindi writer and Padma Shri awardee Giriraj Kishore dies in Kanpur at 82; known for the novel
‘Pahla Girmitiya’
Veteran RSS ‘pracharak’ P. Parameswaran dies in Kochi at 93
SC appoints retired Kerala High Court judge C.N. Ramachandran Nair to prepare a detailed inventory
of the ornaments of the Sabarimala temple deity, Lord Ayyappa
OFB (Ordnance Factory Board) hands over upgraded 155mm Sharang artillery gun to the Indian Army;
range expanded to 36 km
Economy & Corporate
Foreign borrowings of Indian companies decline 45% to $2.09 billion in December 2019: RBI
removes surgical masks and gloves from the list of banned export items; ban was imposed in
January amidst outbreak of deadly novel coronavirus in China
World
Annual African Union summit organised in Addis Ababa; theme: “Silencing the Guns”
Iran unveils Raad-500 short-range ballistic missile powered by “new generation” Zoheir engines
Sports
@upsc_thoughts
Bangladesh beat India by three wickets to win ICC U-19 World Cup title in Potchefstroom, South
Africa
Tata Open Maharashtra tennis tournament in Pune: Jiri Vesely of Czech Republic wins men’s singles
title, Christopher Rungkat (Indonesia) & Andre Goransson (Sweden) win men’s doubles title
Armand Duplantis of Sweden sets new world record of 6.17 metres in men’s pole vault
Ladakh Scouts win Khelo India Ice Hockey Championship by defeating ITBP in final at Leh
16-year old Naseem Shah of Pakistan becomes youngest to take a hat-trick in Test cricket; against
Bangladesh in Rawalpindi
A new cricket stadium of international standards inaugurated at Salem in Tamil Nadu
Australia presented the ICC Women’s Championship trophy
India
SC upholds constitutional validity of SC/ST Amendment Act, 2018; says a court can grant anticipatory
bail only in cases where a prima facie case is not made out
Anti-CAA protesters at Delhi’s Shaheen Bagh cannot block public roads and create inconvenience for
others: Supreme Court
SC slaps fine of Rs 5 lakh on Centre, States for failing to file reply on PIL seeking setting up of
community kitchens across the country
13th Conference of Parties (COP) of the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild
Animals (CMS) to be held at Gandhinagar in Gujarat on February 17-22
First ‘Jerusalem-Mumbai Festival’ to be held in Mumbai on February 15-16
Israel’s National Security Advisor (NSA) Meir Ben Shabbat meets PM Modi in New Delhi
Chhattisgarh: CM Bhupesh Baghel inaugurates Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi as state’s 28th district
Chhattisgarh: 2 commandoes of CRPF’s unit CoBRA killed in encounter with Naxals in Bijapur district
‘Reading Mission-Haryana’ initiated by the state government to inculcate reading habit among
students
Economy & Corporate
BSNL, Air India, MTNL highest loss-making PSUs in 2018-19; ONGC most profitable: Public
Enterprises Survey
Web portal launched for Star Rating of coal mines; portal to promote green, safe and sustainable coal
mining
Electric two-wheeler EPluto 7G launched by Pure EV in Hyderabad; range of 116 km per full charge
92nd Academy Awards

Best Picture: Parasite (Korean)
Best Director: Bong Joon-ho – ‘Parasite’
Best Actor: Joaquin Phoenix – ‘Joker’
Best Actress: Renée Zellweger – ‘Judy Garland’
Best Supporting Actor: Brad Pitt – ‘Once Upon a Time in Hollywood’
Best Supporting Actress: Laura Dern – ‘Marriage Story’
Best Original Screenplay: Bong Joon-ho and Han Jin-won – ‘Parasite’
Best Adapted Screenplay: Taika Waititi – ‘Jojo Rabbit’
Best Animated Feature Film: ‘Toy Story 4’
Best International Feature Film: ‘Parasite’ (South Korea)
Best Cinematography: ‘1917’ – Roger Deakins
World
Britain, Ireland hit as Storm Ciara whips over northwest Europe
@upsc_thoughts
India-UK joint military exercise ‘Ajeya Warrior’ to be conducted at Salisbury Plains (UK) on February
13-26
World Pulses Day observed on February 10
Sports
Australian Cricket Awards: David Warner wins Allan Border Medal; Ellyse Perry wins Belinda Clark
Award
ESPNcricinfo Awards: England’s ODI World Cup skipper Eoin Morgan named captain of the year
Bengaluru Raptors retain Premier Badminton League championship in Hyderabad
Aditya Mehta wins National Snooker Championship in Pune
India
Delhi Assembly election results (70/70): Aam Aadmi Party: 61 (–5), vote share: 53.57%; BJP: 8 (+3),
vote share: 38.1%
7-nation BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise – 2020 being organised in Bhubaneswar from
February 11 to 13
Former Jharkhand CM Babulal Marandi announces merger of his Jharkhand Vikas Morcha
(Prajatantrik) with the BJP
Veteran journalist Nandu R Kulkarni dies at 70; was Mumbai bureau chief of “The Statesman”
US President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump to visit India on February 24-25
Unani Day, the birth anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan (11 February 1868-29 December 1927)
celebrated on February 11
Economy & Corporate
National Institute of Financial Management (NIFM) at Faridabad to be renamed as Arun Jaitley
National Institute of Financial Management
All medical devices sold in the country would be treated as drugs from April 1 and would be regulated
under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of 1940
World
Novel coronavirus named ‘Covid-19’ by WHO; “co” for “corona”, “vi” for “virus” and “d” for “disease”
Election results for 160-seat Dail, lower house of Ireland’s parliament: Fianna Fail: 38, Sinn Fein: 37,
Fine Gael: 35
Donald Trump administration approves sale of Integrated Air Defense Weapon System (IADWS) to
India
International Day of Women and Girls in Science observed on February 11

Sports
NZ complete 3-0 whitewash of India by winning 3rd ODI by 5 wickets at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui
India’s Vivek Sagar (men’s) and Lalremsiami (women’s) named as Rising Stars of the Year by FIH
(International Hockey Federation).
India
Centre launches School Health and Wellness Ambassador Initiative under Ayushman Bharat; 2
teachers in every govt. school will be identified as ‘health and wellness ambassadors’
BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise held at the Ramachandi Beach, Puri (Odisha)
Vietnam’s national media group VOV (Voice of Vietnam) opens its first Indian bureau in Delhi
Maharashtra govt. employees to have 5-day work week from Feb 29; current daily work hours by 45
minutes
Singing national anthem made compulsory in Maharashtra colleges from Feb 19
@upsc_thoughts
Maharashtra govt. to make teaching Marathi mandatory in all schools in the state up to Class 10
irrespective of the board
Fashion designer Wendell Rodricks dies in Goa at 59; won Padma Shri in 2014
Economy & Corporate
Factory output, as measured in terms of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), contracts by 0.3% in
December
Consumer Price Index (CPI)-based retail inflation rises to 68-month high of 7.59% in January 2020
to widen scope of ‘Direct Tax Vivad se Vishwas Bill, 2020’ to also cover cases pending in DRTs (debt
recovery tribunals) https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
Cabinet approves Rs 2,500-crore capital infusion into three public sector general insurance
companies — Oriental Insurance Company Limited (OICL), National Insurance Company Limited
(NICL) and United India Insurance Company Limited (UIICL)
Atul Kumar Gupta elected President of Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) for 2020-21
Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) bans e-cigarettes on all airports and aircraft in India
Golden Jubilee celebrations of the National Institute of Bank Management (NIBM) in Pune held
National Productivity Council, under Ministry of Commerce and Industry, observes Productivity Day:
February 12, Productivity Week: February 12-18
World
Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) lowers global growth forecast for 2020 to 2.2%
Pakistan: Mumbai attack mastermind and Jamat-ud-Dawa (JuD) chief Hafiz Saeed sentenced to 11
years in jail in terror financing cases
Parliament of North Macedonia approves country’s accession to NATO
Sports
Indian Navy wins All India Bombay Gold Cup hockey championship
Ajay Patel elected new president of All India Chess Federation (AICF)
India
SC directs political parties to list candidates’ criminal records on websites, social media
KVIC’s ‘Apiary on Wheels’ flagged off by the Union Minister of MSME Nitin Gadkari in New Delhi
President of Portugal Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa arrives in New Delhi on a four-day visit
President presents colour to INS Shivaji, a training establishment of Indian Navy, at Lonavala
Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) organises BIMSTEC nations’ conference on “combating drug
trafficking” in New Delhi

Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) comprises
India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand
Bihar govt. launches ‘Pyaar ka Paudha’ (a plant of love) campaign to encourage planting trees
K. Pachauri, former TERI (The Energy and Resources Institute) Director General, dies at 79
New Delhi: Pravasi Bhartiya Kendra renamed as Sushma Swaraj Bhawan; Foreign Service Institute
renamed as Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service
Thai Princess Maha Chakri Sirindhorn visits Aryabhata Research Institute of Observational Sciences
(ARIES) in Nainital
2-day Destination Management and Community Participation event/meeting held at Rann of Kutch in
Gujarat
Economy & Corporate
Rating agency Standard and Poor affirms India’s sovereign rating of ‘BBB-‘, maintains “stable” outlook
Railway Minister Piyush Goyal inaugurates first phase (4.88 km) of the East-West Metro corridor in
@upsc_thoughts
Kolkata
Arth Ganga to boost economic activity along Ganga bank; cargo volumes to increase: Union minister
Mansukh Lal Mandaviya
ICAI to set Sustainability Accounting Standards Board to help companies in achieving sustainable
development goals
Bureaucrat Rajiv Bansal appointed CMD of Air India
Bureaucrat Debasish Panda appointed as the new financial services secretary
BMW launches sedan BMW 530i Sport priced at Rs 55.4 lakh
Dan David Prize
India’s Gita Sen wins Dan David Prize for ‘Present-Gender Equality’ jointly with Debora Diniz of Brazil
Lonnie G. Bunch III (US) & Barbara Kirshenblatt-Gimblett (US) won for ‘Past-Cultural Preservation &
Revival’
Demis Hassabis (UK) & Prof. Amnon Shashua won for ‘Future-Artificial Intelligence’
The Prizes are given by the Dan David Foundation at Tel Aviv University, Israel.
World
India, UK begin Ajeya Warrior joint counter-terror Army exercises in UK
US Congress comprising Senate & House of Representatives votes to restrain President Trump from
attacking Iran
OHCHR (Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights) publishes blacklist of
companies cooperating with Jewish settlements in the West Bank; Israel freezes ties with OHCHR
Indian Navy’s INS Jamuna to conduct in hydrographic surveys in Sri Lanka for next two months
Indian-origin politician Rishi Sunak appointed UK’s new finance minister (Chancellor of the
Exchequer)
Soviet spy Alexei Botyan, known for “saving” the Polish city of Krakow from the Nazis in 1945, dies at
the age of 103
World Radio Day celebrated on February 13
Sports
Men’s team captain Manpreet Singh becomes first Indian to win International Hockey Federation’s
(FIH) Player of the Year award
India
SC directs Centre, Assam govt to file status report on Bangladeshi migrants in detention centres
PM Modi and Portuguese President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa holds talks in New Delhi
India and Portugal sign MoU to set up National Maritime Heritage Complex at Lothal in Gujarat
Cha-Chai, an installation of art work of Portuguese artist Joana Vasconcelos, inaugurated at National
Museum in New Delhi
Sonam Sherpa, the lead guitarist of rock band Parikrama, dies at 48 in Kalimpong, West Bengal
Difficult Dialogues, an annual forum examining issues of contemporary relevance in South Asia, being
organised in Panaji, Goa on February 14-15
UP Govt. to replace Yash Bharti Awards with State Cultural Award
Memorial for 40 CRPF personnel killed in a terror attack in Pulwama on February 14, 2019
inaugurated at the Lethpora camp of the force in J&K
Economy & Corporate
Wholesale price index (WPI) based inflation rises to 10-month high of 3.1% in January 2020
Foreign exchange reserves rise to a lifetime high of $473 billion in the week to February 7
PAN not linked with Aadhaar to become inoperative after March 31: I-T dept
@upsc_thoughts
Kolkata-based Titagarh Wagons Ltd commissions coastal research vessel ‘Sagar Anveshika’ for
Chennai-based National Institute of Ocean Technology
First inter-city electric bus service running between Mumbai and Pune inaugurated by Union transport
minister Nitin Gadkari
World
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar attending the Munich Security Conference from February 14 to
16
Global spending on defence rose by 4% in 2019: International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS)
said in its annual “Military Balance” report
Sports
Udayan Mane wins TATA Steel PGTI Players Championship in Bengaluru
Pune-based Udayan Mane won the TATA Steel PGTI Players Championship in Bengaluru on February
14, 2020.
Gokulam Kerala crowned champions of Hero Indian Women’s League football tournament in
Bengaluru
Eva de Goede of Netherlands named 2019 FIH Women’s Player of the Year by International Hockey
Federation (FIH).
February 1, 2020
Economic Survey: National Food Security Act Coverages should be reduced
The Economic Survey was tabled by the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman in the Parliament on January
31, 2019. The Survey says that the subsidies under National Food Security Act (NFSA) should be sharply
reduced
Highlights
The Survey suggests that the coverage of the act should be reduced to 20% of the population. On the other
hand, these funds should be diverted towards incentivizing environmentally sustainable production. Also,
more focus should be laid to replenish the food grain economy that has been riddled due to several
economic inefficiencies.
Current Scenario of NFSA
At present, around 67% of the Indian households are entitled to 5 kilograms of subsidized wheat and rice
per person per month. Over 800 million are benefitted from food subsidy scheme.
Since the NFSA was introduced in 2013, the expense of food subsidy has increased from 1.1 trillion rupees
in 2014-15 to 1.7 trillion rupees in 2018-19

Economic Survey suggests “Assemble In India Model” to create 80 million jobs
The Economic Survey 2019-20 suggests a new idea of “Assemble in India” model to create 80 million jobs in
the country. The model will also help India achieve its 5 trillion USD economy target.
Highlights
The report suggests that India should benefit from the China-US trade war situation by increasing export
manufacturing. It also says that China has been performing well in exports mainly due to large scale labour
intensive activities. Chinese import components and assemble in China. This creates immense job
opportunities.
Assemble in India Model
The Assemble in India for the world should be integrated with Make in India. This will increase export
market share by 3.5% in 2025 and 6% in 2030.
Current Scenario
India contributes only 2% of world trade. With China-US trade war, firms are looking for alternative
@upsc_thoughts
locations. Also, labour shortages and increase in wages in China are ideal for India to grab global markets.
These opportunities are ideal for India to make similar trajectory as that of China as its labour-intensive
sectors are slowly being vacates.
Corona Virus: India bans respiratory masks export as Indians evacuated from China
On January 31, 2020, the Government of India banned respiratory masks, clothing used to protect from air
borne particles and other personal protection equipment. The move has been implemented as a
precautionary step assuming there could be a spurt in demand of these products due to Corona Virus.
Highlights
A 423-seater plane has been sent to China to evacuate Indians from China. The move is being done due to
the outbreak of novel Corona Virus in China. At this scenario, India is to bring around 400 Indians from
China.
Quarantine Facilities
The death toll in China due to the Corona Virus has increased to 213 and the number of confirmed cases
has increased to 9,000. In order to screen them, the Indian Army has set a quarantine facility in Manesar.
Current Scenario
There are more than 300 Indian students in the Chinese province of Hubei, which is the epicenter of the
virus outbreak. The Manesar quarantine is being created exclusively for these students. They are to be
monitored for 2 weeks.
It is to be noted that out of the 213 that died due to corona virus infection, 204 were from Hubei province.
India-Africa Defence Ministers Conclave at DefExpo for first time
For the first time, in the history of DefExpo, India and Africa are to discuss their defence relations. The
India-Africa Defence Conclave is to be held on February 6, 2020. Around 24 Defence Ministers are to
participate in the conclave.
Highlights
India’s largest Defence Exhibition is to be held in Lucknow between February 5, 2020 and February 8, 2020.
During the exhibition, India showcases its existing and new defence technologies to the world. As a part of
the event, the India-Africa Defence Conclave is to be held.
This year more than 1000 companies have registered at the Defexpo. Last year, when the Defexpo was held
in Chennai, around 702 companies had registered.
India-Africa
So far, the eastern and Southern African countries alone have shown interests in defence ties with India.
However, the novelty of this conclave is that the western African countries are expected to come forward.
India has so far partnered with Nigeria, Zambia, Ghana, Botswana, Ethiopia, Namibia, Mozambique and
Uganda in Defence sector. India has helped several African countries to set up their military post-Colonial
rule. India had set up defence college in Nigeria, military academy in Ethiopia, air force in Ghana.
Fiscal Deficit of GoI touched 132% of full year target
On January 31, 2020, the Controller General of Accounts (CGA) released data on fiscal deficit of
Government of India. According to the report, the fiscal deficit of India touched 132.4% of the full-year
target in December, 2019.
Highlights
The gap between revenue and expenditure is terms as fiscal deficit. According to the CGA data, the fiscal
deficit was 9,31,725 crores of rupees. During 2018-19 budget, the fiscal deficit was 112.4%. GoI is trying to
reduce the deficit to 7,03,760 crores by the end of March 2020.
Economic Survey on Fiscal Deficit
The Economic Survey that was released recently suggests that the fiscal deficit target of 3.3% of GDP has
@upsc_thoughts
to be relaxed. It suggests to reduce the deficit to 3% of GDP in 2020-21.

It is to be noted that GoI’s step to reduce corporate taxes in September 2019 was a major hit. Following the
step, GoI received a major hit of 1.45 trillion rupees on revenue mobilization.
Budget 2020-21 presented by Finance Minister: The Themes, GST Reforms
The Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman presented the Budget 2020-21 on February 1, 2020. The budget
focused on enhancing purchasing power of citizens and boosting their incomes. It has also given
importance to technology and innovation to increase employment of the youths.
The Budget 2020 has been framed on two main pillars namely Fundamental Structural Reforms and
Inclusive Growth.
Structural Reforms
The structural reforms include recapitalization of banks through IBC (Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code). The
debt of the country has been reduced from 52.2% of GDP in 2014 to 48.7% of GDP in 2019.
GST Reforms
Under GST, an average household saves 4% of its savings.
In the year 2019-20, 60 lakh new tax payers were added, 40 crores of returns filed, 800 crore invoices
uploaded and 105 e-way bills have been generated. GST helped to reducing the turnaround time for
trucks by 20%.
The Inspector Raj system has been vanished. Under this, the state and national permits including
road tax, fitness certificate pollution certificate for trucks were removed.
Inclusive Growth
The Growth Rate was 4% in 1950s, 6% in 1980s and reached an average of 7.4% in 2016. The inflation for
the period 2014-19 stood at 4.5%. Around 271 million people were brought out of poverty in 2006-16.
The Budget was presented on three themes.
Themes of the budget
The themes were
Aspirational India-Better standards for all sections of the society in terms of Health, Education and
better jobs
Economic Development-Entails reforms across the economy by creating more space for the private
sector
Caring Society.
Under Aspiration India the budget covered
Agriculture, Irrigation, Rural Development

Education
Water and Sanitation
Under Economic Development, the manufacturing sector, industries and skill development were focused.
Under the Caring Society section, tourism, connectivity, vulnerable and old population were focused.
Budget 2020: 2.83 lakh Crore Rupees allocated to Agriculture and Rural Development
The Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman presented the Budget 2020-21 on February 1, 2020. The Minister
has allocated Rs 2.83 lakh crore rupees for the agriculture and rural development sector.
The Government aims to liberalize farm markets, remove distortions in livestock and farm markets and
increase agricultural investments. It also focuses to increase purchase of farm produce and related
services. The Budget presents 16 action points in its budget to achieve the above aims in AGRICULTURE
SECTOR.
POINT 1 — Encourage State Governments to implement Model Laws
The Budget aims to encourage the state governments to implement the following model laws
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Model Agricultural Land Leasing Act, 2016

Model Agricultural Produce and Livestock Marketing Act, 2017
Model Agricultural Produce and Livestock Contract Farming and Services promotion and Facilitation
act, 2018.
POINT 2 — Comprehensive Measures for 100 Water Stressed Districts
POINT 3 — Help 20 lakh farmers setup standalone solar pumps
In the previous budget, the government aimed to reduce the dependence of farmers on diesel or petrol
water pumps through PM-KUSUM. It aimed to increase the usage of grid connected solar water pumps.
This budget will help farmers set up standalone solar pumps. The surplus of the standalone power will act
as an income to the farmer. It shall also help another 15 lakh farmers solarize their grid connected pump
sets.
A scheme is to be introduced to operationalize the barren lands of farmers with the solarization of water
pumps.
POINT 4 — Reducing incentives to chemical fertilizers & promoting organic
The budget aims to encourage the use of organic and chemical free fertilizers. This is to change the current
set up of incentivized use of chemical fertilizers.
POINT 5 — NABARD to Geo Tag and map warehouses
At present, India has capacity of 162 million metric tonnes of storage and warehousing. With an allocated
budget, NABARD will map and Geo Tag these warehouses.
Viability Gap funding is to be provided to create new warehouses in line with WDRA (Warehousing
Development and Regulatory Authority).
POINT 6 — Village Storage Scheme
The village storage scheme is to be proposed. The storage houses will be run by the SHG (Self Help Group).
Importance under the scheme will be given to the Women SHGs. Under the scheme, the group will get loan
from NABARD to store food grains. This will help farmers to increase their holding capacities.
POINT 7 — Kisan Rail under PPP model launched
Also, Indian Railways will set up Kisan Rail to transport perishable goods under the PPP (Public Private
Partnership) model. New refrigerated freight trains will be launched. This will help to build seamless
national cold supply chain for perishables such as meat, milk and fish.
POINT 8 — Krishi UDAN to be launched
Apart from trains the government also aims at launching air transport. The Ministry of Civil Aviation will
operate new flights to fulfil transport of perishable goods. This will immensely help the north east and tribal
districts.
POINT 9 — One District One Product extended to Horticulture
The current produce of Horticulture sector is 311 million Metric tonnes. According to the Ministry of
Finance, the horticultural produce exceeds the production of food grains. The budget aims to support states
that are willing to adopt the cluster basis focus on “One District One Product” programme.
POINT 10 — Integrated Farming systems in Rain fed areas to be expanded
Multi-tear cropping, Bee keeping, solar pumps, solar energy production in non-cropping season are to be
added. The Jaivik Kheti (National Project on Organic Farming) is to be strengthened. It is a portal for online
organic products.
POINT 11 — NWR integrated with ENAM
The financing of Negotiable Warehouse Receipts (NWR) has already crossed 6,000 crores. Therefore, the e-
NWR is now to be integrated with ENAM (Electronic National Agriculture Market)
POINT 12 — 15 lakh crore agricultural credit
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The Non-Banking Finance companies and the agricultural cooperative play a major role in agricultural
development. The NABARD refinancing the agricultural credit will receive 15 lakh crore for the year 2020-21.
Agriculture credit is the loans and funding provided to farmers outside farming sector.
POINT 13 — Milk production 108 million MT by 2025
The budget has allocated funds to address the foot and mouth disease issues. It also includes Brucellosis
in cattle and PPR (Peste des petits ruminant) in goats and sheep.
The GoI aims to eliminate all the three diseases by 2021.
The coverage of artificial insemination is to be increased from the current 30% to 70%. MGNREGA will be
implemented to develop fodder farms.
The GoI also aims to double the milk capacity of the country from 53.5 million metric tonnes to 108 million
metric tonnes by 2025.
POINT 14 — Blue Economy-Fish Production boosted to 200 lakh tonnes
A framework is to be put in place to develop and manage conservation of marine fisheries resources. The
youth in coastal areas are to be trained in fish processing and marketing. GoI aims to increase the fish
production to 200 lakh tonnes by 2022-23. The GoI also intends to promote Growing of algae, sea weeds
and cage culture.
POINT 15 — Fish Farmer Producer Organization (Fish FPO) introduced
Through 3,477 SAGAR Mitras and 500 fish farmer producer organization fish production is to be boosted.
The youths in the coastal areas and inland fishing areas are to be trained as SAGAR Mitras.
POINT 16 — SHGs of Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana to be mobilised
Under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana, currently 58 lakh SHGs have been mobilized. They are to be mobilized
further.
FUND ALLOCATION
For the sector of Agriculture, irrigation, rural development and allied activities 2.83 lakh crore rupees has
been allocated. Out of this, for agriculture and irrigation, 1.6 lakh crores has been allocated. For rural
development and Panchayati Raj 1.23 lakh crore rupees has been allocated.
The Budget also aims to spread the fund across certain flagship schemes of the government.
Schemes
The GoI is working on the agricultural target of doubling farmers income by 2022. The schemes that were
highlighted to achieve the target are as follows
Energy Sovereignty has been provided through KUSUM
Input Sovereignty through Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (Promotes Traditional Farming)
11 crore farmers are registered Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bhima Yojana (PMFBY)
Expansion of micro-irrigation through Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY)
Budget 2020: Wellness, Water and Sanitation
On February 1, 2020, the Finance Minister presented the Budget for the financial year 2020-21. The GoI
gives utmost importance to health sector. The GoI under the Budget 2020-21 aims to provide wellness,
water and sanitation by allocating funds for following schemes.
Ayushman Bharat
Under PMJAY, there are more than 20,000 empaneled hospitals in the country. More such hospitals are to
be empaneled in Tier II and Tier III cities. Under the scheme, the budget allocates viability gap funding in
PPP mode. In Phase I, the 112 aspirational districts are to be covered. Out of these, the districts without
empaneled hospitals are to be given priority.
Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence are to be implemented in the Ayushman Bharat Scheme. With
the help of these technologies, the health authorities can target diseases on an appropriately designed
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preventive regime.
TB Harega Desh Jeetega
The campaign was launched to fight Tuberculosis and eliminate the disease from the country by 2025. The
budget allocates funds to strengthen the campaign and realize the target.
Jan Aushadi Jendra Scheme
The scheme is to be expanded to all districts. The aim is to make 2000 medicine and 300 surgical
equipment available in all districts. This is to be realized by 2024.
FUND ALLOCATION FOR HEALTH
The Health Sector has been allocated 69,000 crores. This includes the 6,400 crores of rupees allocated for
PMJAY.
SANITATION
Swachh Bharat Mission-FUND ALLOCATION
The GoI is committed to Open Defecation Free India (ODF). It is currently implementing ODF+ that aims to
sustain ODF. The GoI now under the Budget aims to work towards Liquid and Grey water management. It
will also focus towards solid waste collection, source segregation and processing. The Budget has
allocated 12,300 crores of rupees for the Swachh Bharat Mission.
WATER
Jal Jeevan Mission-FUND ALLOCATION
The mission aims to provide clean piped drinking water to all households. The GoI has already approved 3.6
lakh crore rupees for the mission.
The mission also aims at augmenting local water resources, recharging existing sources and promotes
desalination and water harvesting.
The budget aims to encourage cities to implement the mission in the current year by allocating fund of
11,500 crores.
Other Schemes
The other schemes that were given importance by the Budget are as follows
Mission Indra Dhanush covers 12 diseases. The scheme was intensified by the GoI including 5 new
vaccines.
Fit India Movement fights against non-communicable diseases that arises due to lifestyle issues
The Health vision of the GoI is also supported by the Jal Jeevan Mission and Swachh Bharat Mission
(The Fund Allocation for the above schemes were not mentioned in the Budget)
Budget 2020: 99,300 crores and 3,000 crores allocated for Education and Skill Development
The Budget 2020 was presented at the Parliament under three themes. One of the themes is Aspirational
India. The Education and Skills is a Sub theme of Aspirational India. The other two sub themes of
Aspirational India are
Agriculture, Rural Development and Irrigation
Health, Water and Sanitation
The GoI believes that there is a need for greater inflow of fund towards the education sector to absorb more
talented teachers, innovate and build better labs. Therefore, the budget has been framed in such a way to
allow the education sector encourage commercial borrowings and FDI to deliver higher quality education.
The Budget 2020-21 has allocated funds for the following
Higher Education Institutes
Over 150 Higher Education institutes will start apprenticeship embedded degree diploma courses by March
2021.
Internship by ULD
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The Budget allocated funds for the Urban Local Bodies to provide internship opportunities to the local
youths, especially fresh engineers for a period of 1 year. The man power of local bodies is also limited. This
move hence will help address both the problems.
Online Education Portal
To provide high quality education and for the deprived sections of the society that do not have access to
higher education, the budget proposes to start online education portal. In order to maintain the quality of
the courses uploaded in the portal, only top 100 institutes of the country will be allowed to conduct courses
in the portal. The institutes were ranked under National Institutional Ranking Framework.
Study in India Programme-“INDSAT” Exam proposed
Under Study in India Programme, INDSAT exam has been proposed in Asian and African countries. This will
help to benchmark foreign candidates receiving scholarships to study in India.
National Police and Forensic Science Universities to be established
The Budget has allocated funds to establish National Police University and National Forensic Universities.
They will focus on the domains of policing science, forensic science and cyber forensics.
Doctors’ inadequacy addressed
The Budget proposes medical colleges to be established along with district hospitals in PPP mode to
address the problem of lack of qualified medical doctors. The states that are willing to allocate land and
address the issue will be provided with viability gap funding to construct the colleges.
DNB and FNB
The Budget Allocated fund to increase the number of DNB (Diplomate in National Board) and FNB
(Fellowship in National Board) professionals. The exams for these medicine graduates are conducted by
National Board of Examinations. The DNBs are trained at private hospitals and medical colleges.
There is huge demand for teacher, para medical staffs, nurses and care givers in the foreign countries. The
Budget proposes to the Ministry of Health and skill development together to create a bridge course in
preparing Indian citizens for those jobs.
FUND ALLOCATION
The Budget has allocated 99,300 crores of rupees for the education sector. Also, it allocated 3,000 crores
for skill development.
February 2, 2020
Budget 2020: Economic Development-Commerce, Industries and Infrastructure
The Union Budget 2020 was presented by the Finance Minister Shrimati Nirmala Sitaraman. The budget was
presented under three themes namely Aspirational India, Economic Development and Care Giving. The
Economic Development includes industries, commerce and manufacturing.
The Finance Minster referred to words Sreni (Guilds) and Seti (Wholesale Merchants) from Harappan
Civilization seals. This proves that India was rich in trade, commerce and metallurgy even before 4,500
years ago.
The Budget allocated funds for the following
Investment Clearance Cell to be set up
The Budget proposed to set an Investment Clearance Cell that will provide end to end support including pre-
investment advisory, information related to land banks and facilitate clearances at centre and state level.
5 new smart cities
The Budget 2020-21 proposes three main activities as the backbone of infrastructure development. They
are
Upcoming Economic corridors
Revitalization of manufacturing activities
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Technology and demands for aspirational classes

The GoI is to set up 5 new smart cities that will aid in the above developments.
Manufacturing
The Budget focuses on the networks of the manufactured products. It aims to make the chain a part of the
global network.
Electronics Manufacturing
The potential of the Electronics Manufacturing sector in job creation is immense. It is important for India to
boost domestic manufacturing and attract large investments in the electronics value chain
Scheme to encourage mobile phones manufacturing
The Budget proposes a scheme to encourage manufacturing of mobile phones, electronic equipment and
semiconductor packaging. The scheme shall be extended to medical devices as well.
National Technical Textile Mission introduced
India imports 16 billion USD of technical textiles every year. In order to reverse the trend and position India
as a leader in Technical Textile sector, National Technical Textile Mission is introduced. The mission is to
be implemented in 4 years between 2020-21 and 2023-24. The estimated cost of the mission is 1,480
crores.
Zero Defect Zero Effect Manufacturing
The Budget proposes to all ministries to issue a Quality Standard Order in order to remove defects in the
manufacturing. PM proposed the Zero Defect Zero Effect Manufacturing during his speech in Independence
Day, 2019.
NIRVIK Scheme launched
The scheme aims at Higher Export Credit Disperse. It will also help to achieve higher expense cover,
reduction in premium for small exporters and simplify procedures to claim settlements.
Scheme for reversion of Duties proposed
The Budget proposes to introduce a new scheme to cover electricity duties, VAT, transportation fuels. The
scheme will cover duties that are not getting exempted under other existing mechanism. The scheme is to
be launched in 2020-21.
Districts as Export Hub
The GoI has been working to improve its exports with a target of making every district an export hub. In
order to achieve this, the budget allocated funds for the E-market places and GeM. They will move ahead to
create a single platform for procurement of goods. This will help the MSME sector. More than 3 lakh
vendors are already on the platform.

The aim of the platform is to increase the overall turnover of these hubs to 3 lakh crores.
FUND ALLOCATION
The Budget 2020-21 allocated Rs 27,300 crores for the commerce and industries sector.
INFRASTRUCTURE
The GoI is working to achieve its set target of investing 100 lakh crores of rupees in next five years
(announced in 2019). In order to achieve this, the Finance Minister launched the National Infrastructure
Pipeline that will implement 103 lakh crore worth projects.
National Infrastructure Pipeline
It consists of more than 6,500 projects. It includes housing, safe drinking water, health care, access to clean
and affordable energy, world class educational institutions, modern railway stations, bus terminals, airports,
railway transportation, Logistics, warehousing projects and irrigation.
The project aims to increase ease of living.
Project preparation facility Centre proposed
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The facility is to be set up to propose infrastructure projects. It will work towards improving the skills of the
youth and in identifying the talent demands of the country. The facility will involve young graduates,
engineers, economists from Universities. The facility will also work towards involving many number of
youths towards entrepreneurship. https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
National Logistics Policy to be released
The policy will clarify the role of union government and state governments in the logistics. The policy will
create a single window e-logistics market. The policy will focus on employment generation, skills and will
encourage MSMEs work towards competitivity.
Development of Highways
The Budget allocated funds to develop 2,500 km of access-controlled highways, 9,000 km of economic
corridors and 2,000 km of coastal and land port roads and 2,000 km of strategic highway.
The Delhi-Mumbai Express way and Chennai-Bengaluru Express Way are to be completed by 2023.
The Budget proposes to monetize at least 12 lots of high way bundles of 6,000 km by 2024.
Indian Railways
The GoI has so far commissioned 550 WiFi Railway Stations in the country. The unmanned level crossings
have been eliminated. It also aims to achieve electrification of 27,000 km of tracks.
The budget has specially allocated funds for the following in Indian Railways
Setting up a large solar powered capacity along side the railway tracks within the land limit of the
Indian Railways.
4 Station redevelopment projects and operationalization of 150 passenger trains under PPP model.
More TEJAS type trains connecting iconic tourist destinations.
High speed train connecting Mumbai-Ahmedabad.
148 km of Bengaluru suburban transport project. The FUND ALLOCATED to the project is 18,600
crores of rupees. The central government will share 20% of cost and will facilitate 60% of external
assistance.
Sea Ports
Under Budget 2020-21, the GoI intends to corporatize at least one sea port by the end of the year and list it
under stock exchanges.
Inland Water Ways
The Jal Vikas Marg on the National Water Way-1 is to be completed by the end of the year. Budget allocated
funds for its completion processes. The 890km Dubri-Sadiya national water way in Assam connectivity is to
be completed by 2022.
In order to reduce the environmental impacts of developing waterways, the Arth Ganga model has been
conceptualized. This will shift the economic development activities in the rivers towards sustainable
development.
Air Traffic
The Budget proposes to develop 100 more airports by 2024 to support UDAN scheme. It is expected that the
air fleet number will increase from 600 to 1200 during this period.
FUND ALLOCATION
The Budget allocated 1.7 lakh crores for transport infrastructure.
ENERGY SECTOR
Electricity and DISCOMs
The distribution of electricity sector, the DISCOMs in particular are under stress. In order to address the
issue, the budget allocated funds to replace the conventional meters to prepaid smart meters in next 3
years. Through this step, the consumers will be enabled with the freedom to choose the rates and the
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suppliers.
FUND ALLOCATION
The Budget allocated 22,000 crores for power and renewable energy sector
Oil and Natural Gas
The Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) has so far awarded 1 lakh square kilo metres of area for
exploration of private sector. The budget increases the exploration areas. The National Gas Grid so far runs
for 16,200. The Budget proposes to increase this to 27,000 km.
The budget also allocates funds for transparent market discoveries and ease of transactions in the oil and
natural gas sector.
Private Data Centre Parks to be established
The New Economy is based on innovation, artificial intelligence, IoT, 3D printing, drones, DNA, data storage,
quantum computing, and established business models. In order to move ahead in these technologies, the
Budget proposes Private Data Centred Parks. A new policy is to be framed in order to achieve this.
Bharat Net
GoI believes that it is essential to communicate with all Gram Panchayats, Health and Wellness Centres,
Anganwadis, Government Schools, PDS outlets, post offices and police stations. These places are to be
provided with Digital connectivity.
The Bharat Net will link 100,000 Gram Panchayats through Fibre to the Home (FTTH) connections within
2020-21. FUND ALLOCATION for the Bharat Net Programme is 6,000 crores.
Intellectual Property
At the Institute of Excellence, a centre is to established that will work towards the complexity and
innovation of the field of Intellectual Property
Knowledge Translation Clusters
The Knowledge Translation Clusters are to be set up under different technologies. This includes new and
emerging sectors as well. It will design fabrication and validate proof of concept.
National Science Schemes
In order to achieve , two National Level Science Schemes to create comprehensive databases. It will also
work towards mapping of India’s genetic medicines, agriculture and biodiversity management.
National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications
The Budget allocated 8,000 crores of rupees for the mission. The mission is to be completed in another 5
years. If India achieves in breaking into the technology, it will be the third pioneering nation in conquering it.
Budget 2020: Caring Society: Women and Child, Social Welfare, Culture & Tourism, Env & Climate
Change
On February 1, 2020, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman presented the Budget 2020 on three main
themes. The third theme of the budget is Caring Society. Under this theme, the GoI allocated budget to
Women and Child, Social Welfare and Tourism, Environment and Climate Change.
The Budget allocated for the above sections of the society are as follows
Women and Child and Social Welfare
Under the Beti Bachao Beti Padao, the Gross Enrolment ratio of girls is higher than boys. Their enrollment is
as follows
At Elementary level, girls’ enrollment is 94.32% and boys’ is 89.28%
At secondary level, girls’ enrollment is 81.32% as against 78% for boys
At higher secondary level, girls’ enrollment is 59.7% as compared to 57.54% for boys.
Poshan Abhiyan
To improve health of children in the age of 0 to 6 years of age, adolescent girls and lactating women,
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Poshan Abhiyan was introduced. More than 6 lakhs Anganwadi workers are equipped with smart phones to
upload the status of nutrition of more than 10 crore house hold.
Task Force appointed
The age of marriage for girls was increased from 15 years to 18 years in 1978. This was done by amending
the Sharada act (The Child Marriage Restraint Act), 1929. As India progresses further, wider opportunities
open up. Also, there is lowering of maternal mortality rates and improvement of nutritional levels. In order
to include women in every aspect of such developments, a task force is to be appointed.
FUND ALLOCATION
The Budget 2020-21 allocated 35,600 crores of rupees for the nutrition related programmes. It also
allocates 28,600 crores for programmes of women development.
Manual Scavengers
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has identified suitable technologies for sewerage cleaning. The
Ministry is currently working with the urban local bodies for adoption of these technologies. The budget
allocates funds to achieve this and also to implement legislative changes. The budget will also allocate
funds to support wider acceptance of such technologies.
FUND ALLOCATION
Along with manual scavengers, the other section of the society including scheduled class and OBCs a
budget of 85,000 crores has been allocated. For the upliftment of Scheduled Tribes, a budget of 53,700
crores has been allocated. For Senior citizens and Divyangs 9,500 crores has been allocated.
Culture and Tourism
Indian Institute of Heritage and Culture to be established
Under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the GoI proposes to establish an Indian Institute of Heritage and
Culture. It shall have the status of a Deemed University to start with. It will include course of museology,
archaeology and also includes scientific curriculum of those fields.
5 Archaeological sites to be developed
The GoI has allocated funds to develop 5 archaeological sites with museums. They are Rakhigarhi in
Haryana, Dholavira in Gujarat, Hastinapur in Uttar Pradesh, Sivasagar in Assam and Adichanallur in Tamil
Nadu.
Four more museums are to be renovated. At the historic Old Mint building in Kolkata, a museum on
numismatics and trade is to be located.
A tribal Museum at Ranchi, Jharkhand is to be set up.
A Maritime museum to be set up in Lothal, a maritime site of Harappan age. This is to be set up by the
Ministry of Shipping.
India’s stand in tourism
India has move up to rank 65 in 2014 to rank 34 in 2019 in the travel and tourism competitive index. The
index is prepared by the World Economic Forum. The Foreign Exchange grew 7.4% (between January and
November, 2019)
FUND ALLOCATION
For Culture the budget allocated 3,150 crores. For Tourism the GoI allocated 2,500 crores.
ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE
Closure of old thermal power stations
GoI launched the Global Coalition for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure in 2015. It will help in addressing the
Sustainable Development Goals.
India submitted its Nationally Determined Contribution under Paris Agreement on Climate Change signed in
2015. The implementation begins January 1, 2021. In order to succeed the contributions, GoI has decided to
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close old thermal power stations. The land vacated are to be put to alternative uses.
Clean air in cities
The cities are to be encouraged to take actions against pollution to provide clean air for the citizens. The
budget allocated separate funds to achieve this. However, only cities with population above 1 million are
included under this. Incentives will be provided to such cities that are coming forward to implement such
measures. The measures will be released by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
FUND ALLOCATION
GoI allocated 4,400 crores for environment and climate change.
Budget 2020: Governance
In order to achieve minimum government and maximum governance, the Budget 2020-21 has allocated
funds for the following
Tax Payer Charter introduced
The Budget allocated funds to institutionalize a Tax Payer Charter. This is to ensure fairness and avoid
harassments in the quest of collecting taxes from the citizens. Only three countries in the world so far have
enshrined the rights of taxpayers namely Canada, Australia and US Through tax payer charter, India joins the
list.
National Recruitment Agency to be established
The Companies Act, 2013 is to be amended. Major reforms in the recruitment processes of non-Gazetted
posts in Government administration and public sector banks are to be introduced. As this process involves
immense effort, cost and time, a National Recruitment Agency is to be established. The Agency will conduct
multiple examinations and also computer based Online Common Eligibility Test. A Test Centre at every
Aspirational District is to be set up.
Also, a robust mechanism will be introduced to absorb best talents and professionals for speedy disposal
of commercial and other disputes.
National Policy on Official Statistics to be introduced
The GoI has witnessed the need for the Indian Statistical System to meet the challenges of the increasing
complexity of the economy. In order to achieve this, National Policy on Official Statistics will be introduced.
The policy will lay down a road map towards data collection, timely dissemination of information and
integrated information portal.
G 20 presidency of India – FUND ALLOCATION
India is to preside over the G 20 meeting in the year 2022 (the year India is celebrating its 75th anniversary).
To kick start the preparations, by 2021, the Budget has allocated 100 crores.
North East and J&K-FUND ALLOCATION
Government has been ensuring smooth access to financial assistance to the North East Region. Also, the
GoI has been supporting the all-round development of newly formed Union Territories Ladakh and J&K.
In order to strengthen these measures, The Budget 2020-21 has allocated 30,757 crores. For the Union
Territory of Ladakh, the Budget allocated 5,958 crores.
Budget 2020: Financial Sector
The Budget 2020-21 has been framed on the basis that Governance and Finances are the two major hands
in achieving the three themes of the budget. The three themes include aspirational India, Economic
Development and Caring India
The Budget has allocated funds for the following in the efforts of achieving 5 trillion USD economy.
Public Sector Banks
The GoI has earlier approved consolidation of 10 major banks into 4. In order to achieve this a fund of
3,50,000 crores has already been infused into the economy. Still, in order to make them robust and
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competitive, budget has allocated funds to carry out reforms in these banks
A robust mechanism is to be put in place to monitor the health of Scheduled Commercial Banks. This is
being done to make sure if the depositor money is safe.
Deposit Insurance increased to 5 lakhs
The Depositor Insurance Coverage (DIC) has been increased from 1 lakh to 5 lakh per depositor. The DIC is
looked after by Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee Corporation (DICGC).
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Amendments to acts proposed
The following acts are to be amended
Banking Regulation Act
The Banking Regulation Act is to be amended to increase professionalism, improve governance, enable
access to capital and enable sound banking through RBI
SARFAESI act
The SARFAESI (Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of Security Interest)
act, 2002 is to be amended. This is to reduce the limit of debt recovery of NBFCs from 500 crores to 100
crores. The debt recovery for loans of the NBFCs is to be reduced from 1 crore to 50 lakhs
PFRDAI act
The Pension Fund Regulatory Development Authority India Act is to be amended. According to the
amendment the role of PFRDAI is to be strengthened. This is being done to infuse auto enrolment in
Universal Pension Coverage scheme. The act will also enable establishment of Private trusts by employees.
Factor Regulation Act, 2011
The act will be amended to extend invoice financing to the MSMEs. This will help in enhancing their
financial and economic sustainability.
MSME Sector
Scheme
A scheme is to be introduced to increase the working capital credit of the MSMEs. Under the scheme,
subordinate debt is to be provided for entrepreneurs of MSMEs.
RBI’s Restructuring of Debts
In 2019-20, more than 5 lakh MSMEs have been benefitted with the RBI restructuring its permissible debts.
The GoI has requested RBI to extend the window till March 31, 2021.
Application to be launched
An application is to be launched to raise invoices of loan products introduced for MSME sector. This will
reduce the problem of cash flow mismatches and delayed payment problems.
Scheme by EXIM and SIDBI
Together both the EXIM and SIDBI will launch a scheme of 1000 crores. The institutions will contribute 50
cores each.
The scheme will help the MSMEs in technology upgradations, business strategies and Research and
Development.
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Bond Market
The limit of FPI in corporate bonds that are currently at 9% is to be increased to 15%
A legislation is to be framed that will create a mechanism for netting of financial contracts. This will
help to increase investor confidence
Upon the success of the Exchange Traded Fund introduced recently, Gol has allocated budget to
expand ETF focusing primarily on government securities
A partial Credit Guarantee scheme is to be formulated to address the liquidity constraints of NBFCs.
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International Bullion Exchange Centre in GIFT city

Budget 2020-21 allocated funds to establish the GFT city. The GIFT has International Financial Service
Centre (IFSC). IT has been approved to set up Free Trade Zone for housing vaults. There are more than 40
banking entities and 19 insurance entities operating in the city. The city is to be established as an
International Bullion Exchange centre.
February 3, 2020
India-Maldives sign MoU to establish Addu Tourism
On February 2, 2020, India and Maldives signed 5 Memorandum of Understandings to establish Addu
Tourism in 5 islands of Addu atoll. The tourism is to be developed at a cost of 2.49 million USD. Addu is a
city in Maldives that contains several inhabited Islands.
Highlights
The Agreements were signed by the High Commissioner of India Sunjay Sudhir, Addu Council and the
Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid. Along with tourism, the countries also signed the 6 th MoU
agreement to set up a bottled water plant in Hoarafushi.
The tourism development and the water plant falls under India’s High Impact Community Development
Scheme. Under the scheme India assists Maldives in developing projects based on the needs of the
communities of the islands.
India-Maldives
Maldives is located in the south of Lakshadweep islands. Also, Maldives is a neighbor. For its strategic
location, it is important for India to develop cordial relations with the country. This will help India contain
the increasing Chinese presence in the region. Milan is the multilateral naval exercise conducted between
the countries. It is held in Andaman and Nicobar Islands
Matla Abhiyan: Coastal Security Exercise conducted by Indian Navy
The Indian Navy recently launched a unique coastal security exercise in Kolkata. The exercise was
conducted to create awareness about the coastal security to the local community.
Highlights
The Indian Navy conducted the Coastal Security Exercise, Malta Abhiyan in the Sunderbans region and the
exercise is unique of its kind. Two naval boats were flagged off the Sunderbans till Hemnagar along the
International Trade Protocol route between India and Bangladesh. The Naval officer created awareness to
the local community along the route. The route is sensitive as deadly equipment can be dropped off easily
and thus it was chosen by the Indian Navy.
Sunderbans
The Sunderbans is a Mangrove Delta Forest formed at the confluence of Brahmaputra, Ganga and Meghna
rivers. The Delta is vulnerable for its vastness and complexities. It covers over 10,000 square kilometres in
India and 6,017 square kilometres in Bangladesh.
Sunderbans-Heritage Sites
Four Sunderbans protected areas are listed under UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It includes Sunderbans
National Park, Sundarbans South, Sunderbans West and Sunderbans East.
The Forest is known for Bengal Tigers and other fauna such as spotted deer, snakes and crocodiles.
Mohammed Allawi appointed the PM of Iraq amidst Tishreen Revolution in the country
On February 01, 2020, one of the former communications ministers of Iraq, Mohammed Allawi was
appointed the Prime Minister of the country by the President of Iraq, Barham Salih.
Highlights
Allawi has been appointed the Prime Minister of the Country amidst long protests that has so far killed 600
in the country.
@upsc_thoughts
2019 Iraqi protests-The Tishreen Revolution

The 2019 Iraqi protests has been named Tishreen Revolution or October Revolution or Iraqi Intifada. It was
started in October 2019 in the social media by civil activists. IT then spread to northern and southern
provinces of the country. The protests was against the 16 years of corruption in the country. It also aimed
to stop the Iranian intervention in Iraq.
Mohammed Allawi
Allawi served as the communication minister between 2006-07 and 2010-12. During both his terms he
resigned due to political reasons. He was famous for his strict actions against bribery. He brought out the
controversial rule of imposing 30% of contract signed as fine, if the company’s bribing charges were proved.
Also, the company would be blacklisted.
It is to be noted that Iraq has been ranked the most corrupt governments in the world for 16 consecutive
years.
National Emergency Declared in Pakistan to fight against Locusts in the border
Pakistan which is facing the worst locust attacks in decades has declared National Emergency. The
emergency was declared to tackle the insects that are destroying crops in Punjab province, the main region
of agricultural production.
Highlights
The locusts are currently in the India-Pakistan border along Cholistan. Usually, these Locusts move to Iran
after some time. However, this time due to low temperatures they are still in Pakistan.
Locusts in India
By the end of January 2020, the Indian border of Gujarat and Rajasthan were attacked by desert locusts
from Pakistan and Iran. They mainly attacked the oil seed producing regions. It included rapeseed and
cumin seed plants in Gujarat in around 17,000 hectares and 360,000 hectares of land in Rajasthan.
The smallest swarm of locusts eats as much as a day’s food of 35,000 people. They travel 150 km in a day.
A similar locust crisis was last reported in 2007 when the heavy rains were in favourable breeding
conditions for the insects.
Corona virus: G7 Health Ministerial meet, China’s New Hospital, Travel ban by 4 countries
The Corona Virus death toll has increased to 360. The WHO has also declared International Health
Emergency over the outbreak of the virus. The G7 countries are to conduct a Ministerial level health meet to
discuss measures to prevent the further spread of the disease.
G7 meet
The health ministers of G7 grouping that comprises of USA, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Italy and Japan
are to meet to discuss the epidemic being caused by the Corona virus. The Minsters will discuss a joint
response to the epidemic.
The virus has so far reached 24 countries and infected 14,500 people
Travel Ban
The four countries Australia, US, New Zealand and Israel has imposed travel ban to the people who have
recently visited China. This will certainly affected trade and business of China. The Chinese share markets
are already slowing down.
Borders closed
The four countries Nepal, Russia and Mongolia have closed their borders with China.
China’s new hospital
China’s speed-built hospital in the city of Wuhan comprises of 1000 beds. The hospital was built in just 8
days. There are more than 21,558 suspected cases and 152,700 under watch cases in the country.
@upsc_thoughts
Import duty on Green Energy Equipment hiked by 20% in Budget 2020-21

The Budget 2020-21 that was presented by the finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman in the Parliament
increased the import duty of green energy equipment like cells by 20%. This is being implemented to drive
local manufacturing of the equipment and lowering the import of low-quality Chinese equipment.
The step is being introduced to protect the local companies and to boost Make in India strategy.
Highlights
The Energy markets is currently one of the fast-growing markets in India. However, the market is dominated
by the Chinese companies for their competitive prices. The GoI had earlier imposed safeguard duty over
solar cells and models that are imported from Malaysia and China in July 2018. This is to expire by July
2020. Hence, the budget has introduced new duties.
India’s Scenario
India is the third largest consumer of energy after US and China. The manufacturing capacity of India is 3
GW for the solar cells. In spite of this, in 2018-19, India imported 2.16 billion USD worth solar photo voltaic
cells.
National Calamity Contingent Duty increased in Budget-Concerns of Tobacco institute
The Budget 2020-21 that was presented by the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman increased the National
Calamity Contingent Duty. The imposed duty is expected to witness price rise of 7% in the sales of
cigarettes.
What is NCCD?
The NCCD is tax imposed on pan masala, cigarettes, cellular phones and other tobacco products. It was
introduced under Finance Act, 2001
Concerns
The Tobacco Institute of India believes that increasing the NCCD will incentivize illegal cigarette trading in
the country. Currently, the illegal cigarettes account to one-fourth of the Indian Cigarette market.
National Calamity contingent Fund (NCCF)
The Fund was proposed by the 11th Finance Commission. It has a core corpus of Rs 500 crores. The fund is
replenished through National Calamity Contingent Duty. Since April 2010, the NCCF has been merged with
the National Disaster Response Fund.
The assistance from the NCCF is only for immediate relief and cannot be used for restoration of damaged
infrastructure.
Portal Santusht launched: To implement policies of Labour Ministry at grass root level
The Portal Santusht is an Implementation Monitoring Cell that was launched by the Ministry of Lobour and
Employment in January 2020. The portal addresses delivery of public services, their transparency,
accountability, schemes and policies at grass root level.
Highlights
The portal aims to address the speedy redressal of grievances of workers ans employers. It monitors
services that are provided by the health insurance and EPFOs (Employment Provident Fund Organization).
Also, it monitors the services provided by the ESICs (Employment State Insurance Corporation) to the
formal sector workers.
ESIC
The ESIC is a statutory body administered by the Ministry of Labour and Employment. The Corporation can
raise loans, acquire movable and immovable properties. It can also set up hospitals in collaboration with
the state governments for the benefit of the employees. The ESIC is governed by the ESI (Employment State
Insurance) Act.
@upsc_thoughts
EPFO
The EPFO is also a statutory body formed and operated under Employment Provident Fund and
Miscellaneous Provisions act, 1952. It is also operated under Ministry of Labour and Employment.
SFURTI Scheme update given in the Parliament-Rs 2.3 crores budget allocated
The Ministry of MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) on February 3, 2020, provided an update on
the SFURTI scheme being implemented.
Highlights
A total amount of Rs 2.3 crores has been sanctioned for the scheme in the budget 2020.The Ministry
updated the house that currently the scheme is working towards the following
Developing clusters of Traditional industries for a period of 5 years
To strengthen active participation of local stakeholders
To make the traditional industries more competitive
To build market intelligence, advanced processes, traditional skills and cluster based regenerated
traditional industries. The clusters will focus on silk, handicrafts, cane products and bamboo in the
year 2020-21.
About the Scheme
The scheme SFURTI-Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional industries was launched in 2005. It
enhances production of Khadi industries and artisans. Also, under SFURTI, the scheme for rural industries
Service Centre (RISC) is being implemented. The scheme for Product Development, Design Intervention and
Packaging is also implemented under SFURTI.
APEDA signs MoU to set up a Liason Office in Guwahati, Assam
On February 3, 2020, APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority)
signed MoU with CSIR-CFTRI (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-Central Food Technological
Research Institute). According to the agreement, the CSIR-CFTRI will provide technical support to the food
industries in the North East Region.
Highlights
APEDA will set up a Liason Office. A Liason office connects people and coordinate activities between
officers. The newly set up office will work towards promoting organic agricultural exports and food
processing. The centre will also works in augmenting the export of traditional food products in the region.
Recent Measures of APEDA in the North East
The APDEA has launched several measures to develop the North East Region. It organized 5 international
buyer seller meets in 2019. The meets were conducted in Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura and
Sikkim. It aimed at showcasing the potential of horticulture, organic foods and agriculture of the region.
Several outreach programmes have been organized to train the stakeholders of the North East region in
export processes.
February 4, 2020
Minister of North East Development chairs Ujh (National) Multipurpose Project, Jammu Kashmir
On February 3, 2020 the Minister of North Eastern Development Dr Jitendra Singh chaired the Ujh
Multipurpose (National) Project, Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was attended by the Ministry of Jal
Shakti, Ministry of Power and other officers from state government of Punjab
Highlights
The Meeting was held to fast track complete utilization of India’s rights under Indus Water Treaty. The
project is to be constructed across River Ujh, a tributary of River Ravi.
The project will help India utilizing the waters of Eastern Rivers to the fullest abiding to the Indus Water
Treaty. It will help store 781 million cubic metres of water of River Ujh.
@upsc_thoughts
Indus Water Treaty

The Indus-Water Treaty was signed between India and Pakistan in 1960. The signing of the treaty was
brokered by the World Bank. According to the agreement, the waters of eastern rivers Ravi, Beas and Sutlej
were given to India and the control over waters flowing in the western rivers Indus, Chenab and Jhelum were
given to Pakistan.
February 4: World Cancer Day
The World Cancer Day is being marked annually on February 4 by the Union for International Cancer Control.
The day is being marked from 2008. The day is observed by the United Nations as well. The theme of this
year’s World Cancer Day is
Theme: I am I will
This theme is being followed for the years of 2019-2021.
Highlights
According to WHO, every year 8.8 million people die of cancer in low- and middle-income countries. The
World Cancer Day is marked to reduce illness and death caused by cancer.
Union for International Cancer Control
It is a Non-Governmental Organization that was formed in 1933. The headquarters of the organization is
located in Geneva, Switzerland. The organization works towards reducing global cancer burden and to
integrate cancer control measures into world health agenda.
The organization conducts World Cancer Congress, World Cancer Leaders’ Summit, GAPRI (Global Access
to Pain Relief Initiative), ChiCa (Childhood Cancer), GETI (Global Education and Training Initiative), GICR
(Global Initiative for Cancer Registries).
Facts Box: World Wetlands Day
The World Wetlands Day is marked on February 2 by the Ramsar Secretariat with financial support from
Danone Group.
This year the day was marked under the following theme
Theme: Wetlands and Biodiversity
Highlights
The World Wetland Day is being marked since 1997. February 2 was chosen as the Ramsar Convention was
signed on this day in 1971.
Significance of the theme
The world wetlands are disappearing three times faster than that of the forests. Therefore, this year theme
focuses on promoting actions to reverse the losses.

Importance of Wetlands
The day is important to create awareness about the importance of wetlands. The wetlands provide habitat
to several species, acts as a buffer zone against flooding and storms. Above all, wetlands act as natural
filter of water. They break down harmful pollutants and transform them into pure elements.
RAMSAR Convention
The Convention is named after the Ramsar city of Iran where it was signed. The convention works closely
with 6 partners namely Birdlife International, WWF International, International Water Management Institute,
International Union for Conservation of Nature and Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust.
Australian Open: Novak Djokovic won the title for the eighth time
The Serbian Player Novak Djokovic captured the Australian Open Title of 2020 in Men’s single. Sofia Kenin
won Women’s singles at the tournament. Rajeev Ram teamed up with Joe Salisbury won the Men’s doubles.
Australia Open
The Australia Open 2020 was held at Melbourne. It is the first of the four Grand Slam tennis tournaments
@upsc_thoughts
held every year. The other 3 Grand Slams include Wimbledon, French Open and US open. So far Australian
Open has been conducted in 5 cities namely Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Perth and Sydney. In 1906, it was
conducted at the New Zealand city Christchurch and in 1912 at Hastings.
The Australian Open was first held in 1905. The nick name of Grand Slam is “Happy Slam”.
Grand Slam
The Grand Slam title offers most ranking points. The Australian Open is held in January, French Open in
May-June, Wimbledon in June-July and US Open in August-September. The Grand Slam tournaments are
operated by the International Tennis Federation.
International Tennis Federation
It was founded in 1913. It maintains rules of tennis and regulates international tournaments. It also
preserved sports integrity conducting anti-doping and anti-corruption programmes.
PMMVY awards: Madhya Pradesh wins; Manipur won among NE states
On February 3, 2020, the Ministry of Women and Child Development awarded Pradhan Mantri Matru
Vandhana Yojana (PMMVY) awards to states and Union Territories and Districts. The award function was
organized to promote competitive federalism among the states.
The Awards were presented under three categories namely best performance since inception,
Highlights: Best Performance since inception
Under this, in the category of more than 1 crore population, Madhya Pradesh bagged the award followed by
Andhra Pradesh and Haryana at second and third position respectively.
In the Category of States and Union Territories with population less than 1 crore Dadra and Nagar Haveli
bagged the award following Himachal Pradesh and Chandigarh at second and third positions respectively.
Highlights: Best Performance in Matru Vandana Saptah
In the category of states and UTs with population more than 1 crore, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra and
Madhya Pradesh stood at first, second and third places respectively.
In the category of states and UTs with population less than 1 crore, Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Sikkim and
Manipur bagged the first, second and third places respectively.
PMMVY
The PMMVY has so far benefitted 1.28 crore beneficiaries. It has transferred Rs 5280 crores through Direct
Benefit Transfer scheme.
The PMMVY is a maternity benefit programme launched in 2017. Under the programme, cash of Rs 5000 is
provided to pregnant women and lactating mothers.
Supreme Court directs states to set up Gram Nyayalayas

On February 3, 2020, the Supreme Court of India directed the states to establish “Gram Nyayalayas” within
four weeks’ time span. The apex court has directed the corresponding state high courts to expedite the
process of consultation with the state governments.
Highlights
The Gram Nyayalayas act, 2008 was passed to provide establishment of Gram Nyayalayas at the grass root
level. The main objective of the judicial body is to provide inexpensive justice in rural areas.
The current scenario of the states with respect to the Gram Nyayalayas were submitted by the SC Advocate
Prashant Bhushan.
Current Scenario of the States
According to the report presented by the Advocate, Goa has issued two notification to establish the Gram
Nyayalayas. However, none are functioning at the moment. Haryana had issued notification for 3 and
Currently only two are functioning.
In Jharkhand, 6 were notified, but only one is functioning. The state of Uttar Pradesh notified 113 Gram
@upsc_thoughts
Nyayalayas. However, only 14 are functioning. The state had to establish 822.
At present, only 208 Gram Nyayalayas are functioning as against 2,500 required to function according to the
12th five-year plan.
India develops new Vaccine to control Swine Fever
The ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research)’s Indian Veterinary Research Institute (IVRI) has
developed cell culture Classical Swine Fever vaccine.
Significance
The vaccine will help to save several rabbits. This is because the current vaccine called the Lapinised CSF
(Classical Swine Fever) being used is produced by sacrificing large number of rabbits.
The new vaccine invented gives immunity for 2 years as compared to the previous vaccines that provided
immunity for 3 to 6 months.
Need
The deadly fever in pigs contribute to 10% of the country’s total meat production. The CSF is one of the
deadliest diseases of pigs that is causing loss of Rs 400 crores to India annually. It is also one of the
reasons for the swine population to decline in 2019 as compared to the previous census 2012.
Current Scenario
The total requirement of the vaccine in India is 22 million doses per year. However, hardly 1.2 million doses
are being produced currently. This is because, only 50 doses can be produced from a rabbit spleen.
New Natural Gas Reserves discovered in UAE
On February 2, 2020, the United Arab Emirates discovered shallow natural gas reserves of about 80 trillion
cubic feet. The reserve was discovered between the Emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Highlights
In November 2019, UAE announced the discovery of 7 billion barrels of oil. This raised the crude reserves of
the country to 105 billion barrels making it the sixth largest in the world. IT had also announced the
discovery of 58 trillion cubic feet of gas. This puts the total reserves of natural gas of UAE to 273 trillion
cubic feet conventional gas and 160 trillion cubic feet unconventional gas.
UAE
The UAE is formed by seven Emirates namely Dubai, Abu Dhadi, Ajman, Sharjah, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah
and Umm Al-Quwain. Around 30% of the GDP of the country is directly based on oil and gas.
India-UAE
The India-UAE bilateral trade currently stands at 59.9 billion USD. India is the third largest investor in UAE.
There are more than 2 million Indian population living and working in UAE. The total remittances from UAE
to India in the year 2009 was 10 to 12 billion USD. This is one-third of the total remittances received by India
and also highest among all the GCC countries.
WHO report: Cancer Cases to increase by 81% in 2040
While the world marked World Cancer Day on February 4, 2020, the World Health Organization released its
report on Cancer.
Highlights
According to the report, the cancer cases will increase by 81% by 2040. This is mainly due to lack of
investment. The report says that it is essential to invest 25 billion USD in the next decade to save millions of
lives.
The treatment for cancer in developed countries has brought down the mortality rate due to cancer by 20%.
However, in poorer countries the reduction was merely 5%.
The report also says that 25% of cancer deaths were due to tobacco consumption.
Tobacco in India
@upsc_thoughts
According to WHO, there are 120 million smokers in India. This is 12% of world smoker. The number of
tobacco smokers in India grew by 36% between 1998 and 2015.
National Tobacco Control Programme
The Programme is currently being implemented in 612 districts. It aims at bringing awareness about
tobacco control laws and harmful effects of tobacco usage.
February 5, 2020
Western Railways begins branding of its locomotives to improves its non-freight revenue
On February 3, 2020, the Western Railways launched out branding of electric locomotives for the first time.
This will help the Railways earn additional revenue of 1.05 crores of rupees.
Highlights
Around 10 locomotives have been branded so far. Railways has earned 223.53 crores of rupees from non-
fare revenues. The step being initiated as the passenger fares dipped by 400 crores of rupees. The Western
Railways is also facing deficit in freight loading. Therefore, branding is essential and will help to fill in the
deficit faced by the Western Railways.
Indian Railways
The total revenue of Indian Railways is 1.97 lakh crores (2018-19). Apart from transporting freight and
passengers, the Railways also earn from UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Indian Railways’s UNESCO World Heritage Site
Indian Railways has two UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes Mountain Railways of India and
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus was built by the Britishers
between 1878 and 1887.
The Mountain Railways were built in the hill stations of India. There are three such railway lines. They are
Nilgri Mountain Line in Tamil Nadu, Darjeeling Himalayan Railway line and Kalka-Shimla Railway line.
Udyanotsav inaugurated by the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan
On February 4, 2020, President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated Udyanotsav at Rashtrapati Bhavan. The
Mughal Gardens will be opened to the public between February 5, 2020 and March 8, 2020.
Highlights
The main highlights of the Udyanotsav of 2020 are Exotic flowers, tulips and bulbous flowers. Online
booking to visit the gardens has been availed for the citizens in the website of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
Mughal Gardens
The Mughal Gardens have been built in the Persian Style. It was influenced by the Charbagh structure.
Charbagh is a quadrilateral layout of gardens that is mentioned in Quran. The most famous examples of this
type of garden are the Chahrbagh-e-Abbasi in Iran and the Taj Mahal in India.
Rashtrapti Bhavan
Rashtrapti Bhavan is the largest residence of any head of the state in the world. The Construction was
ordered by the Governor-General of Fort William. It was constructed between 1799 and 1803.
WHO on Corona Virus: Virus is not yet pandemic
The World Health Organization on February 4, 2020 announced that the Corona virus disease has not yet
become pandemic. The disease has so far killed 425 people and has infected more than 20,000. Hong Kong
recently reported death due to the virus. It is the first country outside China to report death.
Highlights
Though the disease spreads through sneezes, coughs and direct contact, the disease has not yet become
pandemic.
What is Pandemic?
An Epidemic disease spread over a large region is pandemic. Currently, the WHO list of pandemics include
@upsc_thoughts
HIV, 2009 flu, Spanish flu and H1N1. Previously small pox and Tuberculosis were also included under
Pandemics. The most devastating pandemics in the world was Black Death that killed more than 100 million
people in the world.
Possible Future Pandemics
According to WHO, the antibiotic resistant micro-organisms called the superbugs may re-emerge as
possible pandemics.
WHO reports that more than 50 million people are infected with Multi Drug Resistant Tuberculosis. All of
these cases are resistant to more than two to three antibiotics.
East Asia Summit on Maritime Cooperation to be held in Chennai
The Ministry of External Affairs is to organize East Asia Summit in Chennai between February 6, 2020 and
February 7, 2020. This is the fifth time the conference is being held in India. The first conference was
organized in Delhi in 2015, second in Goa in 2016, third in Bhubaneswar in 2018. In 2019, the fourth
conference was held in Bangkok.
Highlights
The conference is to be held in cooperation with the governments of Australia and Indonesia. More than
100 participants are expected to participate. The Conference will bring upon understanding of all the
partners. It will foster the spirit of openness and inclusion.
The summit is important as a guide for ASEAN’s engagement in the Indian Ocean region and Asia Pacific.
At the fourteenth East Asia Summit held in 2019, PM Modi mooted the idea of Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative.
About the Summit
The Summit is held annually by 16 nations in the East Asia, South Asia and South East Asia. The first such
summit was held in Kuala Lumpur in 2005. US and Russia are also a part of the summit.
India-South Korea hold meeting to enhance Bilateral Security Cooperation
On January 4, 2020, the defence ministers of India and South Korea discussed ways to enhance bilateral
security cooperation in the field of defence industries and research and development.
Highlights
During the defence ministers meet held between India and South Korea, several possible areas of
cooperation in the field of defence industry were listed. The countries also discussed about investment in
Defence Industrial Corridors in Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh.
Defence Industrial Corridors
The Government of India has set up Defence Industrial Corridor in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. The
Corridors facilitate efficient industrial base and aims at increasing defence production in the country. They
aim at ensuring connectivity between different defence industrial units.
The Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor aims to connect six cities namely Kanpur, Lucknow, Agra, Chitrakoot,
Jhansi and Aligarh. Tamil Nadu Defence Corridor includes five cities namely Hosur, Salem, Chennai, Trichy
and Coimbatore.
Significance
It is essential for India to maintain cordial relations with South Korea for its strategic location in China Sea.
Also, India is currently developing strong military hardware cooperation with South Korea. Indian Army has
inducted K-9 Vajra howitzers that has roots in South Korea. K9 is currently deployed in the border of
Pakistan. https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
National Productivity Council study: Fertilizer use reduced by 10% with the use of soil cards
The study conducted by the National Productivity Council has reported that the use of soil cards has
reduced the fertilizer use by 10% in the country. The study also reported that the productivity has increased
by 5-6% due to soil card. This is mainly because the soil card scheme aims at addressing the issue of
@upsc_thoughts
declining soil nutrient.

Soil Health Card
The Soil Health Card Scheme was launched by the Modi Government in 2014-15 in order to address the
issue of declining soil nutrients. In 2015-17, the scheme distributed 10.74 crores of soil health cards.
Between 2017 and 2019, 11.69 crores of cards have been distributed.
Development of Model Villages
In the Fiscal year 2019, the scheme of Development of Model Villages is being implemented. The scheme
aims at sampling and testing of cultivable soil. The scheme has so far distributed 13.53 lakh soil health
cards in the year 2019-20. It has established soil health laboratories
The scheme has so far sanctioned 102 mobile labs, 429 static labs, 1,562 village-level labs and 8,752 mini
labs.
DefExpo 2020: India’s target in Defence Sector is 5 billion USD in next 5 years
th
The 11 edition of DefExpo (Defence Exhibition) was inaugurated by PM Modi on February 5, 2020. At the
inaugural speech, PM Modi announced that India will work towards increasing its Defence economy to 5
billion USD.
Highlights
India announced at the DefExpo that it has aimed to develop 25 products based on Artificial Intelligence in
next 5 years. India recently shifted towards “Assemble in India” from “Make in India”. Therefore, the new
mantra was coined at the DefExpo called “Make in India, for India and for the world”. This is because,
“Assemble in India” aims at importing raw materials and assembling in India and exporting the finished
goods to different parts of the world.
Targets set
India had already set an export target of Rs 35,000 crores in next 5 years. At the DefExpo, India has
announced to improve the sector to 5 billion USD sector. India is very much capable of achieving such
ambitious targets. This is because in the last two years the defence exports of the country has been
increased to Rs 17,000 crores.
DefExpo 2020: Uttar Pradesh is to sign 23 MoUs and create 3 lakh job opportunities
The DefExpo was inaugurated by PM Modi on February 5, 2020. During the Defence Exhibition the Uttar
Pradesh Government is to sign 23 MoUs. The agreements will bring in Rs 50,000 crores of investment. This
will bring in job opportunities to 3 lakh people.
Highlights
The DefExpo 2020 being held in Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) is the biggest ever Defence Exhibition. The
Exhibition aims at making India a technological power house through initiatives such as Start up India, Skill
India and Make in India.
Governmental Measures
In order to boost the defence sector, the Indian Government has taken several measures. It has liberalized
the FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) to 49% through direct route. Also, GoI liberalized the FDI through
government route to 100%.
About DefExpo
The DefExpo is biennial event organized by Ministry of Defence. The 11th edition of the event promises to
bring in new technological solutions. Defence Ministers from 40 countries are attending the event.
Cabinet approves amendment to bring Cooperative Banks under RBI Regulation
On February 5, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to bring regulation of cooperative banks under Reserve
Bank of India. In order to achieve this, the Cabinet approved amendments to Banking regulation act.
@upsc_thoughts
Highlights
According to the amendment, the cooperative banks will now hold the regulatory requirements that have
been set for scheduled commercial banks. With the amendment, the cooperative banks have to conduct
regulatory commands over cooperative banks. Also, it has to take the approval of RBI in order to appoint its
CEO.
The amendment is being made to prevent scenarios such as PMC bank crisis in the future
Background
In September 2019, the RBI imposed sanctions on Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative Banks (PMC). The
withdrawal limit in the banks were set to Rs 1000. Later, it was increased to Rs 50,000 to ease the distress
of the customers.
RBI placed the restrictions as the bad loans in the bank accounted to 3.76% of its advances. Also, the profit
of the bank had been decreasing. It was 100 crores in 2018 and decreased to 99 crores in 2019. Therefore,
RBI took precautionary measures to prevent
India Russia sign first ever Term Contract to import crude oil to India
On February 5, 2020, the Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Shri Dharmendra Pradhan and the Chairman
of Rosneft (Russia’s largest oil producing company) signed the first ever term contract. According to the
contract India will import 2 million metric tonnes of Urals grade crude oil.
Highlights
The agreement was signed between IOCL and Rosneft. The companies discussed on energy cooperation
and hydrocarbon enhancement.
Rosneft is the largest oil producing company in Russia. The company is extended over 20 countries in the
world. The company is to bid in the disinvestment of BPCL (Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited). On
November 20, 2019, the Union cabinet approved to privatize BPCL selling 52.98% of its stakes to private
sector.
India and Russia Oil Ties
After the crude oil agreement, India and Russia are also looking for ways to sign agreements to bring LNG
(Liquefied Natural Gas) supplies from Russia. Russia is estimated to posses 10 to 14 billion tonnes of oil
and 15 trillion cubic metres of gas. The rich resources of Russia extends till Serbia in Pacific Ocean in the
far East region.
February 6, 2020
The Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas bill introduced in Lok Sabha by the Finance Minister
The Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman proposed the scheme Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme in the Union
Budget 2020. In order to implement the scheme, the minister introduced a bill in Lok Sabha on February 5,
2020. The main objective of the scheme is to
Highlights
The scheme aims to settle the pending cases on direct taxes. The scheme is very similar to the “Indirect
Tax, Sabka Vishwas Scheme” introduced by the minister in her previous budget in 2019. The Sabka Vishwas
scheme aimed to settle down the disputes related to service tax and excise duty payments
Key Features
The Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme aims to resolve 483,000 direct tax disputes. The scheme provides waivers
on interest if the disputed tax was paid before 31st March, 2020. The scheme also increases the dead line to
June 30, 2020 for those tax payers who have not paid their taxes by March 31, 2020. However, such
taxpayers will have to pay 10% more tax.
Pink City-Jaipur receives World Heritage Certificate from UNESCO
@upsc_thoughts
On February 5, 2020, the Pink City of Rajasthan, Jaipur, received World Heritage Certificate from the
UNESCO. The UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay visited India to present the certificate.
Highlights
The World Heritage Certificate was presented to Jaipur for the efforts of the people of the pink city towards
preserving its cultural heritage. Jaipur’s Parkota has been listed in the World Heritage sites of UNESCO.
Intelligence Heritage Promotion Project
The Project is being implemented by UNESCO in 10 cities of Rajasthan, It includes Barmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner,
Jaisalmer, etc.
Why Jaipur?
Jaipur is known for its palaces, architecture, forts. The architecture in the city reflected inclusion of Mughal,
Persian and Hindu designs. In order to preserve this cultural mixture of the city, UNESCO and the Rajasthan
Tourism Department have signed an agreement.
Selection Criteria
The World Heritage Sites are selected on the basis of four natural criteria and six cultural criteria. They are
as follows
The site should represent human creativity
It should reflect interchange of human values.
It should bear unique testimony to cultural tradition
An example for a particular type of architecture
An example for human settlement, their sea-use and land-use
It should represent biological or ecological evolution
An example to represent major stages of earth’s history.
To exhibit natural beauty
It should b e directly related to the traditions of living people
Atal Innovation Mission joins with several ministries to stimulate innovation in India
On February 5, 2020, the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) joined hands with several ministries such as MSME,
agriculture, food processing and also with NITI Aayog to stimulate innovation in India. The mission aimed to
showcase government funded innovations.
Highlights
In order to achieve its objective, AIM began its first demo session with the Ministry of Food Processing and
Ministry of Agriculture. The event was held at Atal Incubation Centre. More than 30 government supported
technologies of agriculture and food processing were exhibited on the occasion. The ministries will adopt
the technologies and train farmers and the youths to set up processing units.
Significance
The step is being initiated as India is facing post-harvest crop processing. The mission aims to increase the
food processing capacity of India. Currently, 10% of the food items are sold as processed foods. The
mission aims to increase this to 50%. This will mainly help to increase farmers’ income and help India
achieve its doubling farmers’ income goal by 2022.
Cabinet approves to set up Vardhavan port in Maharashtra
On February 5, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to set up the Vardhavan port in Maharashtra. The port is to
be developed in “Landlord Model”. The Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust will act as the lead partner in
developing the port.
Highlights
With the development of Vardhavan port, India will enter into the category of countries with top 10 container
ports in the world. The Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNP) is the biggest container port in India and 28th in the
@upsc_thoughts
world. The port handles more than 5.1 million TEUS (Twenty-foot Equivalent units).
Significance of Vardhavan port
Currently JNP operates India’s largest port and caters Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka, Rajasthan and Uttar
Pradesh. However, it is essential to deepen the port to accommodate largest container ships in the world.
India’s largest container handling ports Mundra and JNPT are capable of handling 10 million TEUs. They
have drafts for operating medium size containers for which they should hold a capacity of 15 million TEU.
However, the ports should have capacity of 20 million TEU to handle world’s largest ships. Therefore,
construction of Vardhavan port is essential.
Karnataka launches Janasevaka Scheme
On February 5, 2020, the State Government of Karnataka launched Janasevaka scheme. The Government
aims to provide doorstep government services under the scheme. Also, it intends to digitize several
services and make these services easily available to the citizens through the scheme.
Highlights
Under the scheme, the government has launched an exclusive mobile number (080-44554455), a website
(janasevaka.karnataka.gov.in) and mobile application. People can check around 53 services in the site.
Features of the scheme
The scheme offers to provide health card, ration card, marriage registration certificate, identity card, etc. at
the door steps under the scheme. A Jan Sevak is appointed to deliver the services under the scheme
Jan Sevak
As the citizen places his request of service through the government website, a Jan Sevak is assigned to
deliver the service. The Jan Sevak will reach the residence of the citizen, collect required documents and
deliver the service at his door step.
Cost
The Cost of the service is Rs 115. This amount does not include the cost of documentation. The scheme is
to be implemented in Bengaluru. Depending on the work load, it is to be extended to the rest of Karnataka.
Intellectual Property Index: India ranks 40th
On February 5, 2020, the Global Innovation Policy Centre (GIPC) of the US Chamber of Commerce released
the International IP (Intellectual Property) Index. According the ranking, India was at position 40 of the 53
economies.
Highlights: India
The report released by GIPC says that India remains to be the most challenging but still promising market
for IP-intensive industries. The hurdles mainly remain in patent eligibility and enforcement.
This year India scored 16.22 in Intellectual Property Index. India’s score has shown improvement by 7% as
compared to the previous year reporting of GIPC. However, based on relative performance, India was
pushed four ranks backwards. In 2019, India was at 36th rank improving from 44th position in 2018. It was
the highest gain for any country in 2019.
Highlights: World
With a score of 42.66 US ranked first followed by UK, Sweden, France, Germany and Ireland.
Indian Patents Act, 2005
The amendments introduced in Indian Patents Act, 2005 are considered the main reason for the pace of
development in the field of Intellectual property being slowed down. The major amendment of the act
includes Section 3 (d). Under the amendment, the act made licensing compulsory for a third party to make
an innovative drug at reduced price, especially in the interest of public health.
Cabinet approves to give status of Institution of National Importance to 5 IIITs
On February 5, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to confer the status of Institution of National Importance
@upsc_thoughts
to 5 IIITs (Indian Institute of Information Tecnology). All the 5 IIITs are to operate in PPP mode.
Highlights
The Cabinet approved the Information Technology Laws (Amendment) bill, 2020. According to the bill, five
IIITs along with 15 other IIITs are to be declared as Institutions of National Importance and will hold powers
to awards degrees of Bachelor of Technology, Master of Technology, BTech and PhD degree.
Features of the bill
The bill will grant statutory status to 5 IIITs that are operating in PPP mode at Bhopal, Surat, Bhagalpur,
Agartala and Raichur. There are already 15 IIITs that are currently operating under PPP model. There are 5
IIITs in India that were set up by the Ministry of Human Resource Development. This means that complete
funding for the institute comes from GoI. No private parties are involved. It includes IIITs in Gwalior,
Jabalpur, Kancheepuram, Allahabad and Kurnool.
Rakhi Halder wins gold medal at the Women’s National Weightlifting Championship
On February 6, 2020, Rakhi Halder of West Bengal won Senior Weightlifting Championship. She bagged gold
medal in the 64 kg category at the 35th National Weight lifting Championship held in Kolkata.
Highlights
Halder lifted 117 kg in clean and jerk and 93 kg in snatch to win the medal. She was 10 kgs ahead of her
rival Harjinder Kaur from Chandigarh.
Rakhi Halder
Rakhi Halder ranked 19th in the Olympic qualifier list. Her best was 218 kg at the Qatar International Cup that
won her a bronze medal. In 2019, she clinched gold medal at the Commonwealth Championship lifting 214
kg. Halder is a Railway employee.
Weightlifting
The sport of weightlifting is related to the strength and technique of a player. A good weightlifter will lift
three times their weight.
There are two techniques in weightlifting. They are Snatch and Clean & Jerk. Snatch is lifting the load above
the head. Clean and Jerk is lifting the load in two steps. The rule is to bring the weight above the head and
hold the weight upright.
US President Donald Trump acquitted at the Senate
On February 5, 2020, US President Donald Trump who had been impeached by the House of Representatives
has been acquitted at the Senate trial. He now becomes the third President in the US history to be
impeached by House of Representatives and acquitted by the Senate. The other two Presidents were Bill
Clinton in 1999 and Andrew Johnson in 1868.

Highlights
Mr Trump was accused of charges that he had sought help from Ukraine to bolster his 2020 re-election. The
Supreme Court Judge who presided over the trial adjudged the case as two-thirds of the senators
pronounced him not guilty.
US President Impeachment
The Constitution of United States authorizes the House of Representatives to remove a US President over a
simple majority vote. At the house of Senate, the President is impeached through a trial presided over by the
Chief Justice of Supreme Court that requires two-thirds majority.
India
The Impeachment Procedure of President of India is provided in the Article 61 of the Indian Constitution. In
India the President shall be impeached for violating Constitution of India.
RBI releases bi-monthly policy: Repo rate unchanged
On February 6, 2020, the Reserve Bank of India released its bi-monthly monetary policy. The apex bank has
@upsc_thoughts
kept the policy repo rate unchanged. It remains at 5.15%.

Observations of the Committee
The Monetary Policy Committee that meets once in two months under the chairmanship of its Governor has
made the following observations
The inflation has increased and the unusual price hike in onions has been the main reason behind
price rise. The Retail Inflation has increased from 4.6% in October to 5.5% in November. It increased
further to 7.4% in December 2019. It is the highest since July 2014.
The Committee estimates CPI for Q4 of the Financial Year 2020 at 6.5%. For Q3, it was at 3.2%.
The Reverse Repo Rate under the Liquidity Adjustment Facility remained unchanged at 4.9%
The Bank Rate and the Marginal Standing Facility Rate stood at 5.4%
Economic Slowdown
According to RBI, the economic slow down is mainly due to muted corporate investments, weak household
spending and slowdown in construction and manufacturing activity.
February 7-8, 2020
DRDO signs agreement with Russia’s Rosoboronexport at the DefExpo, 2020
On February 7, 2020, DRDO (Defence Research Development Organization) signed an agreement with
Rosobornexport of Russia. According to the agreement the defence organization will develop Advanced
Pyrotechnic Ignition Systems for missile propulsion
Highlights
The agreement was signed with the HEMRL (High Energy Materials Research Laboratory) of DRDO. HEMRL
is working towards the development of spectrum of high energy materials that are required for rockets,
missiles and guns.
Rosoboronexports
The Rosoboronexports is the intermediary agency for imports and exports of defence goods and
technologies of Russia. It was founded in 2000. It implements the Defence Policies of the Russian
Government.
India is the major client of the organization. The other leading clients of the organization include Syria,
China, Algeria, Vietnam, Iraq and Venezuela. Iraq was the last country that was added to the list.
Rosoboronexports has been added to the Specially Designated Nationals List of US. The list administers
and enforces trade sanctions of the US.
MPEDA to upgrade 25 fishing harbours in India

The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) will modernize 25 fishing harbours in India.
The project is to begin in two harbours namely Nizampatnam in Andhra Pradesh and Thoppumpady in Kochi,
Kerala.
Highlights
The step is being taken by MPEDA to increase value of marine products. The value of marine products in
India is currently around 5% as compared to 50% in South East Asian countries.
Corona Virus Concern
The current Corona Virus has not affected the sea food industry to great level. This is because, it is
restricted to Wuhan province of china. However, it has affected the discussions on White Spot Syndrome
Virus (WSSV). High level Indian delegates were to travel to China to discuss WSSV. The discussion has
been postponed.
India-China Sea Food
The Indian Exports of sea food to China was around 1 billion USD (November 2019). However, it declined
@upsc_thoughts
due to the WSSSV issues.

MPEDA
The MPEDA has set a target to touch 10 billion USD of exports by 2022.
India International Seafood Show held in Kochi
The Marine Products Export Development Authority Organized International Sea Food Show in Kochi.
Around 5,000 delegates participated in the show. The show will provide a platform for overseas importers
of Indian marine products and also for Indian exporters.
The Show is being held between February 7, 2020 and February 9, 2020.
Highlights
Around 350 stalls, 200 exhibitors and 5,000 delegates are to participate at the event. The show was
previously held in Goa in January 2018. The show was organized under the theme
Theme: Blue Revolution: Beyond Production to Value Addition
IISS is one of Asia’s largest food fair. The fair is being held in Kerala after a gap of 12 years. Kerala’s
Fisheries sector is important because it contributes 3% of India’s GDP.
Significance
The show aims to increase the seafood trade of India in global market from 4.1% to 6.7% by 2030.
Fisheries Sector
The Global Fisheries sector contribute to 1% of world GDP. The total world population involved in fisheries
industry is 40.5 million.
14 MoUs signed at 5th India-Russia Industrial Conference
India and Russia signed 14 Memorandum of Understandings at the India-Russia Industrial Conference held
at DefExpo 2020, Lucknow. The Agreements were signed under Make in India initiative.
Highlights
The countries signed agreements related to ASW rocket launchers, T-72, radar systems, 3D modeling, T-90.
The Defence ties of India and Russia has been strong. The countries have also established defence ties
through multilateral orgnizations.
India-Russia at multilateral organizations
The National Security Advisor attended the BRICS Foreign Ministers meet in June 2019. He met
President Putin, the Russian President on the sidelines of the meet to strengthen defence ties
between the countries
At the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization), India participated at the fifth edition of the biennial
joint military counter terrorist command for the first time in August 2018.
Russia has been one of the long-standing supporters of India’s membership at the Nuclear Suppliers
Group.
Russia welcomes One Belt One Road initiative of China.
Russia also welcomes the International North-South Transport Corridor that was held in March 2019.
It is a 7,2000 km long international multi-node rail, road and ship route between Europe and Central
Asia. It includes India, Russia, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia and Europe.
Sharang artillery Gun inducted into Indian Army
The Sharang Artillery Gun is to be inducted into Indian Army on February 8, 2020. The artillery guns are
currently produced at the Kanpur ordnance factory.
Highlights
The Sharang artillery guns have been upgraded from 130 mm to 155 mm. Also, the hitting range of the gun
system has been increased from 12 kilo metres to 39 kilo metres. It was tested at the Balasore DRDO
facility in January 2019.
@upsc_thoughts
Artillery is a heavy military ranged weapons built to launch munitions.

Background
In October 2018, Ministry of Defence and the state-owned Ordnance Factory Board signed agreements to
upgrade the artillery guns. The Sharang upgrade kit costs less than 7- lakh rupees per gun.
Ordnance Factory Board (OFB)
The Ordnance Factory Board was set up in 1775 at Fort William, Kolkata. The Board governs around 41
factories of India at 24 different location. There are 10 such factories in Maharashtra, 9 in UP, 6 in MP, 6 in
TN, 4 in West Bengal, 2 in Uttaranchal, 1 in Telangana, Chandigarh, Bihar and Odisha.
Bandhan: Transfer of Technology Ceremony held at DefExpo
On February 7, 2020, the transfer of technology ceremony was held at DefExpo 2020. According to the
agreement, the organization transferred 15 licenses to 17 industries. The licenses transferred were all on
technologies developed by DRDO. The ceremony was named Bandhan.
Highlights
The transfer of technologies is in the field of laser technology, electronics, armaments, material science,
naval systems, combat vehicles, sensors and aeronautics. In the year 2019, around 114 technologies were
transferred.
The transfer of technologies will boost greatly to the development of Uttar Pradesh Defence Corridor.
Why UP in specific?
The GoI is currently targeting to increase the exports of Defence Sector. In order to achieve this, it is
encouraging private firms to increase their defence production. The UP state government has allocated land
in the Defence Corridors for the private sectors to build defence industries.
Other Key takeaways
The 11th edition of DefExpo 2020 being held at Lucknow is the largest of all the defence exhibition held so
far. So far, the DefExpo has launched 13 products, 71 MoUs and 18 transfer of technologies. More than 200
agreements have been signed. The Uttar Pradesh Government alone has signed 23 MoUs of worth Rs
50,000 crores.
The steps will help India achieve its 5 billion USD target in next 5 years.
Pangolin identified as the host of Corona Virus in China
On February 7, 2020, the most trafficked mammal of Asia, Pangolin was identified as the host of the virus
by the researchers of China. According to them, the outbreak that killed around 636 people in China has
started from a market in Wuhan city through Pangolin.
Highlights
The Genome sequence of the corona virus separated from Pangolin was 99% identical to those of the virus
stains obtained from infected persons in China. Earlier in 2002-03, when the SARS outbreak occurred, the
virus transferred to humans from civet (a mammal). Civet is prized in China for its flesh. The sale of Civet
was outlawed in China in the wake of SARS epidemic.
Pangolin is used in medicines in China. Also, they are traded for their flesh. The investigations suspect that
the virus has entered China through Pangolin trade.
Pangolin
There are 8 species of Pangolins all over the world. They are listed under threatened in IUCN red list.
Pangolins have the highest protection under CITES. The international trade of Pangolins has been banned.
WHO organizes Global Research Forum on Corona Virus
The World Health Organization is to host Global Research Forum between February 11, 2020 and February
12, 2020. The event is to be co-hosted by Global Research Collaboration for Infectious Disease
Preparedness.
@upsc_thoughts
Highlights
The event will bring together leading public health agencies, leading scientists, funders. The experts will
build their research on MERS and SARS virus information. This will help to minimize the impact of the virus.
The main aim of the forum is to fasten the research and innovation of corona virus.
Current Scenario
There are more than 34,915 reported corona virus cases all over the world. The virus has so far killed 724.
Around 2,085 have recovered.
India’s recent Actions
The Ministry of Shipping on February 7, 2020 issued directives to prevent the virus from entering India. The
Ministry has placed screening, detection and quarantine system. It will also install thermal scanners. This
will be highly helpful to screen passengers entering India through cruises. The Tourism sector is currently
vulnerable to the virus, especially in Kerala.
The Ministry of AYUSH has advised precautionary measures to prevent the spread of virus.
RBI to release Digital Payment Index by July 2020
The Reserve Bank of India announced that it will create a Digital Payment Index by July 2020. The main aim
of the index creation is to capture the extent of digitization of monetary payments in the country
Highlights
With the launch of Digital India and the GoI’s push towards Digital Economy, the digital payments in the
country has been growing fast. In order to monitor the digital payments, the Central Bank is to release
Digital Payment Index. The index will reflect the penetration of digital payments in the country.
RBI has planned to introduce classification in the index. The classification will include rural, urban and
semi-urban geographies. https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
Significance
The Index will help to study the impact of policy interventions that are being taken by the GoI.
Factors influencing digital growth in India
The five factors that are influencing digital growth in India includes low data tariffs, rise in videos,
widespread use of OTT (Over-the-top) platforms. Today India ranks the highest in video making platform.
February 9, 2020
India-Central Asia Business Council launched in New Delhi
The Ministry of External Affairs along with FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and
Industry) recently launched the India-Central Asia Business Council. They were joined by 5 countries namely
Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and Kyrgyz Republic. The Council will act as a common
platform for the businesses of Central Asia and India.
Highlights
According to the External Ministry trade between the countries stand at 2 billion USD. The Council
discussed on making the Chabahar port commercially attractive. The Council will also aim at promoting
trade and investment between India and the four countries. They will focus on oil and gas, renewable and
non-renewable energy, life sciences, pharmaceutical, agro-food processing, IT, urban infrastructure, tourism
and transport.
Background
The Council is the outcome of India and Central Asia Dialogue that was held in Samarkand, Uzbekistan in
2019. The Dialogue and the Council formed are part of India’s Central Asia Policy. Under Central Asia Policy
India aims to build strong political relations and will aim to strengthen security cooperation.
DefExpo: India-UK sign MoU to strengthen Defence and Aerospace Relations
The Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and UK India Business Council (UKIBC) signed
@upsc_thoughts
Memorandum of Understanding to bring upon closer defence ties between the countries. The agreement
was signed at DefExpo that is being held in Lucknow.
Highlights
The MoU was signed to build partnership between Aerospace and Defence sector of the countries. It will
also help in transfer of technologies between the countries. The defence industries of both the countries
will work together to form strong economic and industrial cooperation.
UK-India Business Council
The Council is a non-profit organization that fosters trade relations between India and UK. The Council was
formed in 1993 as the Indo British Partnership. It is a sister organization of UK-ASEAN Business Council.
The UK-India Business Council Centres are in Gurgaon, New Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore.
India-UK
India is the third largest foreign investor of UK. The number of Indian students studying in UK is the second
largest in the world after US.
Also, UK is the strong supporter of India in development of future fighter jet engine. India aims at becoming
self-reliant in manufacturing combat engines.
First Disha Police Station inaugurated in Andhra Pradesh to work on violence against women
On February 8, 2020, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy inaugurated the first Disha Police
Station. The police stations are first of their kind in the state and will deal with crimes against women.
Highlights
The Andhra Pradesh Government is to inaugurate 18 Disha Police Stations by the end of February 2020.
Every police station is to add 26 to 47 police officers. The 18 Disha police stations will act as upgraded
versions of existing women police stations. The stations have been allocated fund of 30% of special
allowance. The stations are established under Disha act, 2019.
Disha Act
In December 2019, the Andhra Pradesh Government passed the Disha Bill, 2019. The bill aims to complete
investigation of cases related to crimes against women within 7 to 14 days. It also prescribes death penalty
under Section 376 of IPC (Indian Penal Code).
Also, the act punishes crimes against children with 10 to 14 years of imprisonment.
Background
The act was passed after a 26-year-old veterinarian was brutally raped and murdered in Telangana.
BBIN nations deliberated on MoU to implement Motor Vehicle Agreement

On February 8, 2020, the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal) nations deliberated MoU
(Memorandum of Understanding) to implement the Motor Vehicle Agreement to regulate personal,
passenger and cargo vehicular traffic.
Highlights
The meeting discussed on cargo and protocols to regulate passenger and cargo services. Bhutan attended
the meeting as an observatory nation. The regulation was signed on June 15, 2015. The agreement was
delayed as Bhutan being a carbon negative country did not ratify it.
Current Scenario
The other three countries Nepal, Bangladesh and India are to go ahead on implementing the agreement with
Bhutan as an observer. The agreement facilitates road transport and discusses various aspects of draft
protocol to move the cargo vehicles. The agreement will aid India in implementing its Neighbourhood First
Policy.
Funds
@upsc_thoughts
The financial support to implement BBIN Motor Vehicular Agreement is being funded by Asian development
Bank. The bank provides advisory, technical and financial support to the BBIN MVA initiative.
National Conference on E-Governance held in Mumbai; National E-Governance Awards presented
The 23rd National Conference on E-Governance was held in Mumbai to transform governance using digital
technologies. The conference adopted Mumbai Declaration.
Highlights
The Conference also assessed the national e-governance services being delivered by all the states and
Union Territories. Delhi, Chandigarh and Daman and Diu emerged as the leaders in delivering e-governance
services among Union Territories. Among the states, Haryana and Rajasthan emerged as leaders.
The Conference also awarded the National E-Governance awards.
Awards
The awards were presented to government entities that excelled in implementing National E-Governance
initiatives. National Health Authority and Ayushman Bharat received gold awards under the category of
government process re-engineering for Digital Transformation. Under the category of providing citizen-
centric delivery of services, Department of IT of Haryana received the gold medal.
The golden award for outstanding research on citizen-centric services was presented to IIT Roorkee’s
Satellite based agriculture information system. Among the North-Eastern States, Nagaland won the first
rank.
Facts Box: Lucknow Declaration of India-Africa Defence Ministers’ Conclave
The India-African Nations Defence Ministers’ Conclave was held at the side lines of DefExpo India 2020.
The Conclave adopted Lucknow Declaration in the presence of Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The
Declaration was signed by 50 African Nations.
Highlights
Under the declaration, the leaders called on to set up Defence Academies in countries such as Nigeria,
Tanzania and Ethiopia. In order to achieve this, training teams are to be deployed. The teams are to be
deployed in Mauritius, Seychelles, Zambia, Namibia, Botswana, Lesotho, Tanzania and Uganda.
The leaders appreciated the Africa India Field Training Exercises. The first ever AFINDEX was held in March
2019.
Defence and Maritime Cooperation
The leaders agreed to strengthen their cooperation in building the African Standby Forces and also to
support peace keeping centres in Africa. The African Leaders also agreed to increase the involvement of
troop contribution in UN peace keeping missions.

The importance of oceans was also recognized by the leaders. They agreed to increase their cooperation in
preventing piracy, disaster, maritime crimes, securing sea and unregulated fishing.
Sri Lankan Prime Minister visits India: Terrorism and Trade discussed
On February 8, 2020, the Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa held high level talks with PM Modi
during his five-day visit to India. The leaders held talks about terrorism, trade and economic projects in New
Delhi
Highlights
The meet will enhance mutual economic trade and investment. The leaders also discussed improving
tourism and connectivity. On the side lines of the meet, PM Modi announced that India will provide a grant
of 400 million USD for developmental projects in Sri Lanka. The countries also have plans to expand the
housing projects undertaken by India in the island to all parts of the country. India has also allocated 50
million USD to help the country deal with terrorism.
It is to be noted that in 2019, India granted a line of credit of 450 million USD to Sri Lanka.
@upsc_thoughts
India-Sri Lanka
The location of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean has been strategic geopolitical relevance to many major
powers. The Chinese are building gigantic modern ports in the Indian Ocean. It includes Hambantota (Sri
Lanka), Gwadar (Pakistan), Kyauk Phru (Myanmar) and Chittagong (Bangladesh).
Therefore, it is essential for India to maintain close ties with the island nation to resist the increase of
foreign presence in the IOR.
Best Performing Smart Cities paired up with least performing to work as SISTER CITIES
The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has paired up 20 best performing smart cities with least
performing cities. They will work as “sister cities”.
Highlights
The best performing cities include Tiruppur, Nagpur, Bhopal, Ranchi, Kanpur, Surat, Indore, Vellore,
Vishakhapatnam, Varanasi, Vellore, Nashik, Vadodara, Pune, Kota, Davangere, Dehradun, Udaipur, Amaravati
and Agra.
The programme to join a least performing city with the best performing city has been named 20-20 formula.
The sister cities under the programme will sign MoUs. For instance, Ranchi has been paired with Pune, and
Shimla with Dharmsala and so on.
The pairing has been done based on culture and region.
Cities in India
According to Census 2011, cities in India accommodate more than 31% of population of India. They
contribute 63% of GDP. It is expected that their contribution towards GDP is to increase by 75% by 2030.
Therefore, it is important make sustainable developments in the urban sector adopting innovative
technologies.
One such most crucial part of smart city programme is city extension and city renewal. In these areas, it is
essential to make sure the development is environmentally feasible.
February 9: Ravidas Jayanti celebrated across India
The birth anniversary of the 14th century saint Ravidas was celebrated all over India on Febraury 9th. PM
Modi and President Kovind and other leaders paid tribute to Guru Ravidas.
Highlights
The saint emphasized brotherhood and harmony to bring upon positive change in the society. His songs are
included in Guru Granth Sahib.
About Ravidas
Ravidas was an Indian mystic poet. His teachings are highly popular in the states of Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar
Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. The poet was a social reformer. His teachings deal with
Nirguna-Saguna theme.
Nirguna-Saguna
Nirguna is knowledge focused and Saguna is love-focused. These two were alternate ways of imagining god
during the Bhakti Movement.
Bhakti Movement
Bhakti movement began to reform Hinduism. It swept over North and East India between 15th and 17th
century. In South India it originated in 18th century. It acted as a catalyst for the formation of Sikhism. At the
end of the movement, salvation that was available only to men was then available to everyone!
February 10, 2020
Kaamya Karthikeyan: Mumbai Girl becomes the youngest to climb Mt Aconcagua
On February 9, 2020, Kaamya Karthikeyan became the youngest girl to climb the highest peak in South
@upsc_thoughts
America, Mt Aconcagua.
Highlights
Kaamya Karthikeyan is a Class VII student studying in Navy Children School. She has set the record of
become the youngest in the world to summit the highest peak of the Andes Mountain Range, Mt Aconcagua.
She has also summited Mt Mentok Kangri II in August 2019.
She started mountaineering at the age of 3 with basic treks in Lonavala. When she was 9 years old, she had
completed several high-altitude treks in the Himalayan region. She is also the youngest mountaineer to
summit Mt Everest. By 2021, she aims to complete “Explorers Grand Slam”
Explorers Grand Slam
It is an adventurer goal to summit 7 highest peaks of the world and also to reach North Pole and South Pole.
The seven summits include Mt Everest, Denali, Aconcagua, Kilimanjaro, Vinson and two other highest
mountain peaks chosen by the designates.
Africa Union Summit held at Addis Ababa
The African Union Summit was held in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia to tackle terrorism in the continent.
The Summit is important for India as India has recently signed the defence agreement, Lucknow Declaration
with 50 African countries at DefExpo 2020. India is planning considerable investment in Defence sector in
the regions of African Union.
Highlights
The African leaders met in Addis Ababa to discuss increasing terrorism in Africa. The leaders met in Addis
Ababa under the theme
Theme: Silencing the Guns
This year the chair is being assumed by South Africa. The 2020 summit has adopted 8 resolutions as
follows
Compromise with the United Nations over co-funding in peace operations
To support elections in Ethiopia and to mediate events of disputes
To deter leaders in Guinea to use Constitutional Amendments to hold on to power
To help to calm Burkina Faso’s insurgency
To push Somali Government towards regional compromise
To press East African heads to support South Sudan peace process
To support Sudan transition by supporting deal between civilian leaders and security forces.
2019 Major Crises

The Peace and Security Council of the Africa Union intervened with the Sudan’s Revolution and also helped
to produce an agreement between Central African Republic and the rebels.
African Union
The creation of African Union was revived under the leadership of Libyan head Muammar Al-Gaddafi. The
Union was established through Sirte Declaration.
Parth: World’s Cheapest Gun Shot Locator developed by Indian Army
The Indian Army’s College of Military Engineering with a private firm developed the gun shot locators called
“Parth”. These are much cheaper than the ones imported. The device was showcased at DefExpo 2020.
Highlights
The cost of the device developed is around 3 lakhs. When these devices are replaced with the imported
ones, the costs are around Rs 65 lakhs. The device is capable of locating a bullet from a distance of 400
metres and will help to neutralize in a faster way.
Gunshot Locator
@upsc_thoughts
It is the system that locates gunfire and other weapons such as sensors. These devices are used by
security, military, law enforcement and businesses to identify the direction of gun fires.
Significance
The development of these type of equipment are currently important for the Indian Army. These
developments come at a time when the centre has abrogated Article 370. They are important to keep
counter terrorism operations in Kashmir Valley under control.
Corona Virus Ranking: India ranks 17 in importing Corona Virus
The researchers of Robert Koch institute in Germany and Humboldt University have founded mathematical
model to predict global spread of novel corona virus cases. India was ranked 17th in the ranking system. So
far three cases have been reported in Kerala. They are all from Kerala
Highlights
In India, among all the cities, cities with international airports namely Mumbai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai,
Hyderabad and Kochi are at high risks.
The study says that the spread of the virus is predominantly due to air travel. According to the ranking, the
top 10 countries that are at risk due to corona virus are Japan, Thailand, South Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong,
Malaysia, Vietnam, Singapore, Malaysia and Cambodia.
The highest risk of importing the virus was with Thailand. It was 2.1%. The import risk of India was at 0.2%
according to the study.
Current Scenario of Corona Virus
The China National Health Commission recently reported that so far 908 people have died due to the virus
so far. Due to the virus, food prices have hiked by 20.6% in China.
NASA sends probes to map poles of the sun
NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) of the United States and the ESA (European Space
Agency) will send space probes to the sun to map its poles. The solar orbiter was launched on February 9,
2020.
Highlights
The probe will use gravitational influence of the Earth and Venus to position itself at 26 million miles from
the sun. It is 95% of distance between the sun and the earth. The probe will map the poles for the first time.
This will help scientists to observe the solar winds. The solar winds permeate the solar system.
Solar Winds
The solar winds are released from the upper atmosphere of the sun. These winds carry charged particles
and magnetic clouds from the sun. These winds are capable of damaging life on the earth. Therefore, it is
important to learn about these winds. They are now being filtered by the thick atmosphere around the earth.
The winds are a reason for the planets including the earth to revolve around the sun.
Cauvery Delta of Tamil Nadu declared Protected Agricultural Zone
On February 10, 2020, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu announced that Cauvery Delta is to be declared as
Protected Special Agricultural Zone. In 2019, the Central Government had awarded the oil and gas
exploration projects in the Cauvery basin. This invoked large protests amid water crisis in the state.
Extraction of hydro carbon requires excess amount of fresh water.
Highlights
With the zone being Agricultural protected Zone, the permission of State government is required to
undertake projects. This infers that oil exploration projects cannot be undertaken by the private firms
without the permission of state government.
Agricultural Protection Zone
When a land is announced as Protected Agricultural Zone, it cannot be used for any other non-agricultural
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activities.
Significance
The Environmental Impact Assessment of 2006 that was recently amended by the central government gives
permission for ONGC and other private firms. And since Cauvery Delta is rich in Hydrocarbons, it is essential
to protect the agricultural land in the region.
NCRB report on women and child trafficking: Mumbai and Kolkata highest
In 2011, the Supreme Court had constituted a panel to submit its report on children and women trafficking.
The panel submitted its report in 2019. It had recommended NCRB (National Crime Records Bureau) to
compile data on missing children and women trafficking. The key findings of the report prepared by NCRB is
as follows
Findings
The report says that the common causes of trafficking are sexual exploitation, child labour and domestic
help. Mumbai and Kolkata reported maximum number of trafficking.
Maharashtra reported the maximum number of missing women and Madhya Pradesh reported maximum
number of cases of missing children. Of all the states, Odisha reported maximum rise in missing women
cases. The percentage of increase in Odisha was around 143% in 2018 as compared to the previous year.
The report also quoted data from United Nations.
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime
The UNODC Global Report, 2018, reported that the 35% of victims trafficked were for forced labour. Also,
more than half of the reported cases were females.
India to host 13th COP of UN’s Conservation of Migratory Species; PM Modi to inaugurate
The 13th Conference of Parties (COP) of the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild
Animals is to be held in India between February 17, 2020 and February 22, 2020. The Conference is called
the CMS-COP-13 in short. The Conference is to be hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Climate Change on behalf of India
Highlights
India has been designated as the President of the Conference for the next three years. The representatives
from 130 countries are to participate in the conference. The theme of the conference is as follows
Theme: Migratory species Connect the Planet and we welcome them
The mascot designated for the CMS COP-13 is Indian Bustard
Indian Bustard
The Conservation status of Indian Bustard is Critically Endangered in IUCN red list. Their population has
been greatly reduced to 250 individuals in 2008. Their main threats include poaching, hunting, habitat loss,
etc.
Significance of India in the conference
Indian Sub-Continent is part of major bird flyway network. It covers areas between Arctic and Indian Ocean.
Also, there are more than 182 migratory water bird species and 29 globally threatened species in India.
India is home to several migratory species. It includes amur falcons, snow leopard, black necked cranes,
dugongs, marine turtles, humpbacked whales, etc.
National Snooker championship: Aditya Mehta defeats multiple time world champion
Aditya Mehta from Mumbai, Maharashtra won the National Snooker championship held at Pune. He
defeated multiple time world champion Pankaj Advani. In Women’s Snooker Finals, Vidya Pillai from
Madhya Pradesh won the title.
History
@upsc_thoughts
Snooker is a game played on Billiard board. It originated among the British army officers stationed in India.
The World Snooker Championship is the leading tournament that is being held since 1927.
Aditya Mehta
Aditya Mehta ranks 49 in the world ranking of Snooker players. He has so far won gold medals at world level
and Asian level games.
Cue Sports
There are three main categories of cue sports namely carom billiards, pool and snooker. Carrom billiards
are played without pockets on tables. Pool games are billiard games that are played on six pocket tables.
They are similar to snooker games. The only difference between the games is that number of balls used in
snooker is 22 and in that of pool is 9.
February 10: National Deworming Day
Every year National Deworming Day is observed twice on February 10 th and August 10th. The event is
observed by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The implementing agency under the ministry is National
Health Mission.
The worms mainly spreads from the faeces of people who defecate in open.
Highlights
On the Deworming Day, the deworming tablet Albendazole is administered to children. The event is being
observed twice a day since 2015. In the first round, 8.9 crore children in the age of 1-19 years were covered.
Every year, the coverage of children were increased. In February 2019, 22.12 crore children were infected.
Significance
WHO data says that there are around 241 million children in India in the age group of 1 to 14 years that are
affected due to parasitic intestinal worms. This says that India accounts to 28% of total number of children
who are at the risk of parasitic intestinal infections.
Worm infections lead to anemia, malnutrition, diarrhea and loss of appetite.
February 11, 2020
First Jerusalem-Mumbai festival held in Mumbai
The Jerusalem-Mumbai festival is to be held in Mumbai on February 15, 2020 to promote artistic and
cultural ties between Israel and India. The festival is first of its kind.
Highlights
The aim of the festival is to establish links between the cities Jerusalem and Mumbai. The idea was mooted
during PM Modi’s visit to Israel in July 2019. The festival will boost cultural ties between the countries that
will help to boost the partnership between them.

Objective
The main aim of the festival is to promote cooperation between the countries in the field of music, culinary
art and dance.
Significance
The festival will act as a common platform for the individuals from cinema, high-technology and tourism to
cooperate, learn from each other and also develop.
Background
Israel has so far done similar cooperation with the countries such as Prague, Brussels and Moscow.
Israel-Palestine
India maintains cordial relations between both Israel and Palestine. India urges both the countries to frame
solutions. The “two-state solution” envisioned for the countries aims to solve the key matter of dispute
between the countries. The countries conflict over boundaries.
Ajeya Warrior: India-UK to hold joint military exercise
@upsc_thoughts
India-UK hold joint exercise called Ajeya Warrior on February 13, 2020. The exercise is being held from
2005.
Highlights
Around 120 soldiers are to participate in the exercise. This is the fifth edition of the exercise. The countries
will hold the exercise in Salisbury Plains.
Salisbury Plains
The Salisbury plains are located in Chalk Plateau. The plains are famous for archaeological monument
Stonehenge.
Stonehenge
Stonehenge in England was built in Neolithic and Bronze age between 3000 BC and 2000 BC. It is one of the
World Heritage Site of UNESCO. Archaeologists believe that Stonehenge would have been a burial ground.
Deposits of human bones were found in the site that were dated to 3000 BC.
Other Exercises
India and UK hold joint naval exercises called Konkan exercise from 2004. The countries also hold Indra
Dhanush Exercise since 2006. Indra Dhanush is a joint air-to-air exercise.
India-UK Defence Ties
The Defence ties between India and UK is limited. India has acquired 123 Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer
aircraft from UK.
Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2020 won by Bangladesh for the first time
On February 9, 2020, Bangladesh won Under 19 Cricket World Cup organized by International Cricket Cup
(ICC).
Highlights
The Bangladesh team beat India to win the ICC U19 title. Bangladesh won the title for the first time in its
history. The tournament was held in South Africa between January 17, 2020 and February 9, 2020.
History
The first U19 world cup was held in 1998. Since then the ICC U19 tournament has been held as a biennial
event. India has so far won the tournament four times.
ICC
The International Cricket council is the governing body of cricket. IT was founded in 1909 by the
representatives from England, Australia and South Africa. The organization conducts Cricket world Cup and
ICC T20 World Cup. The umpires for the matches are appointed by ICC. It also sets standards for
international cricket.
The ICC also coordinates against match-fixing and corruption. It does not control the fixtures of test
matches
United Nations World Pulses Day celebrated in New Delhi
On February 10, 2020 the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare inaugurated the celebrations of
World Pulses Day in New Delhi that aims to increase the production of pulses.
Significance
Pulses are important to improve soil fertility. They help to increase the productivity of the farmland. They
also help to promote farm bio diversity by using intercropping methods. Also, the pulses help to reduce
dependence on synthetic fertilizers as they naturally introduce nitrogen in the soil.
Background
The UN Pulses Day resolution was adopted in 2013 claiming the year 2016 as International Pulses Day. The
day is being celebrated since 2019. By celebrating the day, the United Nations aim to increase public
awareness of environmental and nutritional benefits of pulses.
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It is important to promote cultivation os pulses as it helps farmers to create economic stability and
household food security.
Pulses Production in India
India became self-sufficient in pulses since 2016-17. In 2018-19, India produced 22 million tonnes of
pulses. It is now working to achieve the target of 26.30 million tonnes by 2018-19.
Web Portal launched to provide star rating of coal mines
The Ministry of coal launched web portal in New Delhi to provide star rating of coal mines. Based on the
star rating the highest scoring mines are to be awarded.
Highlights
According to the new system, the mines scoring between 91% and 100% will get 5 star, below 91% and
above 81% will receive 4 star and so on. The coal mines will be provided with login id to self evaluate
themselves by submitting required documents. The mines are to be rated based on 50 parameters.
Current Scenario
India consumes coal predominantly for electricity generation. The other industries that consume coal
include steel and washery, cement industry and sponge iron industry. In 2017-18, India consumed 896.34
million tonnes of coal. However, due to higher demand, India imported 208 million tonnes of coal in
2017-18.
In order to reduce coal imports, Ministry of Coal has set target of 1 billion tonnes by 2023-24.
The states such as Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, West Bengal, Maharashtra and
Telangana account to 98% of total coal reserves in India
Amazon invests 1.5 billion USD for two Data Centres under Data Centre Policy of Telangana
The E-Commerce Giant Amazon Web Services has planned to invest 1.5 billion USD to set up two data
centres in Hyderabad. The private firm will be helped by the Telangana Government under its Data Centre
Policy
Highlights
The private firm Amazon has set a target of 5 billion USD of global investments for the next four years. In
2019, the company opened 1.8 million feet office in Gachibowli, Hyderabad that can accommodate more
than 15,000 employees. The office is the first largest building owned by Amazon outside US.
Data Centre Policy
The Government of Telangana has framed a dedicated policy for data centres. Under the policy, the
government will provide incentives to the firms that set up data centres in the state.
Data Centres
Data Centres are dedicated spaces that are used to house computer systems that are used for data storage
purposes. A data centre that is of the size of an industry (like that to be constructed in Hyderabad) will
consume as much electricity as that of a small town.
Public Enterprises Survey: Air India, MTNL, BSNL highest loss makings PSUs in FY19
On February 10, 2020, the Department of Public Enterprises operating under Ministry of Heavy Industries
tabled the “Public Enterprises Survey” on the parliament. The report says that the net profit from the PSUs
has increased by 15.5% as compared to the previous year.
Highlights
The survey said that Indian Oil Corporation, NTPC and ONGC were the top three profitable PSUs in 2018-19.
On the other hand, MTNL, BSNL and Air India were the highest loss-making PSU. Also, the survey noted that
these three PSUs have been making losses for three consecutive years.
The report also said that total income from Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSE) in the year 2018-19
was 24 lakh crore rupees. It was 20 lakh crore rupees the previous year. There has been an increase of
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4.67%
Relative performance
The enterprises such as MSTC, Chennai Petroleum Corporation and State Trading Corporation that were
making profit last year (2017-18) incurred loss in the fiscal year 2019 (2019-19).
There are a total of 348 CPSEs. Out of these 249 are operational, 13 are under closure or liquidation and 86
are under construction.
Disaster Management Exercise of BIMSTEC NDRF begins in Bhubaneswar
The National Disaster Response Force of Government of India is to host the second BIMSTEC Disaster
Management Exercise-2020 (BIMSTEC DMEx-2020). The exercise is to be held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha
between February 11, 2020 and February 13, 2020.
The main objective of the exercise is to test the existing emergency procedures, disaster problems, during
flood, earthquake and storms. The exercise will also stress upon restoring heritage sites damaged due to
disasters.
Highlights
The BIMSTEC countries namely Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Nepal are to participate in the
exercise. The other two BIMSTEC countries namely Thailand and Bhutan are not participating in the exercise
this time. The exercise includes Table Top Exercise on Hotel Myfair. The Hotel is a collapsed structure. On
the second day, field training exercise is to be held on aquatic disaster response that will focus on
Ramachndi beach in Puri. The beach is a cultural heritage site.
Theme
The exercise is held under the theme
Theme: A Cultural Heritage Site that suffers severe damage in the Earthquake and Flooding or Storm
February 11: International Day of Women and Girls in Science
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is being observed by the United Nations on February
11 every year since 2015. The Organization passed a resolution to observe the day in order to recognize the
role played by girls and women in science and technology.
Highlights
The day is being celebrated in collaboration with organizations all over the world that work towards
promoting women and girls in the field of science.
The events associated with the day is mainly implemented by UNESCO. The global priority of UNESCO is
Gender Equality. It supports in providing education and equal opportunities to young girls.
This year the day is celebrated under the theme

Theme: Investment in Women and Girls in Science for Inclusive Green Growth
Significance
It is important to observe the day because there are only 30% of women researchers all over the world. Also,
their contribution in the field of STEM is also less as compared to men.
Sale of Integrated Air Defence Weapon System to India approved by US
On February 11, 2020, United States approved sale of Integrated Air Defence Weapon System to India. The
cost of the system is estimated as 1.86 billion USD.
Highlights
India aims to buy Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) from the US in order to modernize its
armed forces. It will help India to counter threats posed by air attacks. US President is to visit India between
February 23 and February 26, 2020. The countries are expected to seal the deal during his visit.
The IADWS includes Air Defence Weapon System, AMRAAM Missiles, NASAMS-II, surface to air missiles,
radars, etc.
@upsc_thoughts
NASAMS-II
The National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System was developed by USA in partnership with Norway.
NASAMS-II is an upgraded version of NASAMS of Norway called Norwegian Advanced Surface to Air Missile
System.
Significance
It is important for India to modernize its weapon systems. This is because China is undertaking massive
military modernization. It is also increasing its presence in the Indian Ocean Region.
February 12, 2020
WHO names the new Corona Virus: “COVID-19”
On February 11, 2020, the World Health Organization announced a new name for the Corona Virus,
“COVID-19”. Today more than 42,000 are infected with the virus according to the organization.
Highlights
WHO has chosen the name with no reference to geographical location. According to WHO, the name was
chosen in such away that it does not affect normal lives of a country.
MERS
MERS is Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. It is a deadly Corona Virus strain that was first reported in
Saudi Arabia and created havoc in China greatly. However, the name of the virus has created a fact that
there is something about the middle east region that causes MERS viral infection.
H1NI
In 2009, swine flu created pandemic. It has now been renamed to H1N1 as its strain was similar to that of
the influenza virus. The influenza virus is known to circulate among pigs. Though there was no evidence
that H1N1 circulates in a similar way, it affected the sales of pork greatly that year. Therefore, it is
important for WHO to choose the name of the viruses very carefully.
Medical Devices now to be regulated under Drugs and Cosmetics Act
On February 11, 2020, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced that medical devices are to be
brought under Drugs and Cosmetics act (DCA). This is to come into effect from April 1, 2020
Highlights
According to the regulation, every product that is used to treat a patient will now be under the ambit of DCA.
It includes MRI, CT scan, thermometer, dialysis machines, etc. A list of 37 devices has been included. This
includes medical devices used on animals as well.
Drugs and Cosmetics Act

The DCA regulates manufacture, distribution and import of drugs in India. It was passed in 1940. The act
was prepared based on the recommendations of Chopra Committee that was constituted in 1930.
The term Drug in the act includes substances and diagnostic devices as well. The act provides guidelines
for sale, display, prescription and storage of drugs. The act has so far been amended in 7 times.
Bhabha Kavach: New bullet proof jacket developed by BARC-to be used by CISF
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre developed a new bullet proof jacket called Bhabha Kavach. The jackets
are to be used by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
Highlights
Around 5 pieces of Bullet proof jackets were handed over to the CISF. The nominal weight of the jacket is
6.8kg. It is the lightest level-3 plus jacket. It has been produced based on carbon nanotube and hot- pressed
boron carbide technologies
The product is a substitute for imports and has been introduced under Make in India initiative. It has been
approved by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) and National Institute of Justice.
@upsc_thoughts
The Jacket is capable of stopping hard steel core bullets that are fired from AK 47 and self-loading rifles
and bolt action rifles.
About the jacket
The jacket is lightest of its kind as compared to the other jackets that weigh around 17 kgs. The Ministry of
Home Affairs has approved to induct the jacket into all Central Armed Police Forces. The jackets will be
produced at large scale in Ordnance Factories and MIDHANI (Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited) through transfer
of technologies.
The ordnance Factories where the jackets are to be produced will be decided by the Ordnance Factory
Boards.
Ground Water Act, 2020 approved by UP cabinet
On February 11, 2020, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath approved Ground
Water Act-2020. The act aims to improve ground water level.
Key Features of the act
The act makes the registration of submersible pumps mandatory. The farmers and domestic users need not
pay fees to use the pumps. The act makes rain water harvesting mandatory in all private schools, colleges.
It also penalizes persons polluting ground water through boring pipes. Also, it is mandatory for the boring
companies to register under the act. The companies have to update their information every three months.
Ground Water in India
It is essential to monitor the ground water activities in India. This is important because, according to
Parliament Committee Report, 2016 around 9 states in India has used 90% of their ground water without
leaving a chance of recharging. Also, the increase in presence of metallic elements such as Arsenic,
Uranium, Iron is increasing. https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
GoI released Draft Visionary Perspective Plan (2020-30) to Conserve Avian Ecosystem ahead of
CMS COP-13
Ahead of the Conservation of Migratory Species Conference of Parties-13 (CMS COP-13), the Ministry of
Environment, Forest and Climate Change has introduced a draft Visionary Perspective Plan (2020-2030) to
conserve ecosystems, habitats, avian diversity and landscapes in the country.
Visionary Perspective Plan (2020-2030)
According to the draft, there are 1,317 bird species in India. Out of these 72 are endemic, 100 are
threatened, 17 are critically endangered, 63 are vulnerable and 20 are endangered. Around 270
species of avifauna fall under “rare” category. It includes pheasants, hornbills, bustards, storks and
cranes.
The birds are prone to extinction mainly due to poaching, fragmentation of ecosystem, habitat loss
and epidemics. The draft also says that stray dog population has increased due to catastrophic
decline in population of vultures.
The draft says that around 219 bird bio-diversity areas are under severe anthropogenic pressure.
The draft also says that 2,01,503 wetlands spread across 2.25 hectares in India are under stress. This
is mainly due to agricultural run-offs and urbanization.
Corona Virus Vaccine: UK starts testing on Mice; WHO says vaccine to be ready in 18 months
The scientists in UK have tested a new Corona Virus vaccine. The Shanghai University of China has also
extracted a vaccine to treat the virus and has injected in to a mice recently.
The World Health Organization has also announced that the vaccine will be ready in 18 months. WHO
recently named the virus as COVID-19.
Highlights
On February 10, 2020, WHO announced that the death toll of the corona virus has reached 1,000 and 99% of
@upsc_thoughts
the deaths were from China. There are more than 43,000 cases in China currently.
About Corona Virus
The Corona Viruses are divided into 4 genera namely alpha, beta, gamma and delta. They are zoonotic. This
means they can spread between animals and humans. Out of these, gamma and delta corona viruses
generally infect birds. Alpha and Beta viruses reside in mammals.
Viruses are capable of infecting all forms of life. It includes plants, other micro organisms including
bacteria, single celled organisms called archaea. The first virus was identified by Dmitri Ivanovsky in 1892.
He described it as a non-bacterial pathogen.
February 11: World Unani Day: Birth Anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan celebrated
Every year, on February 11, the birth Anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan is celebrated as World Unani Day. He
was an Indian Unani Physician and a social reformer. The main aim of the World Unani Day os to spread
awareness about Unani medical system, its preventive and curative philosophies.
The AYUSH Ministry organized a function to commemorate the day and it was attended by Defence Minister
Rajnath Singh.
History
The Unani Medicinal system originated in Greece. Later the Arabs saved much of the Greek Unani Literature
and rendered it into Arabic.
Hakim Ajmal Khan
He was born on 11 February, 1868. He was one of the founders of Jamia Millia Islamia. He also founded
Ayurvedic and Unani college called the Tibbia College in Delhi. He was a descendant of one of the line of
physicians who came to India during reign of Mughal Emperor Babar. These physicians were called the Rais
of Delhi.
Grandfather of Hakim Ajmal Khan was Hakim Sharif Khan and he was a physician to Mughal Emperor Shah
Alam.
National Winter Games to be held in Gulmarg
The National Winter Games is to be held in Gulmarg from March 7, 2020. The games are to be held for five
days in Gulmarg, the world-famous Ski destination. It is being held under Khelo India.
Highlights
The Department of Tourism is to create wide publicity about the event through roadshows. Around 30
events are to be held at the national winter games under four disciplines. It includes snow skiing,
snowboarding, snow-show and cross-country. Also, snow cycling and other games are to be held for
children.
Khelo India
Khelo India was first held in 2018. The main aim of Khelo India event is to hunt grassroot level talent all over
India. The talent are identified by the Talent Hunt Committee. Such identifies sports persons are provided
with scholarship of Rs 5 lakhs for 8 years.
The first Khelo India was held in Delhi and the second event was organized in 2019 and in 2020 it was held
in Guwahati, Assam.
43rd Session of International fund for Agricultural Development: UN SDG 2030 not achievable
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) of the United Nations works to address hunger
and poverty in developing countries. The 43rd session of the governing council of IFAD was held at Rome
between February 11, 2020 and February 12, 2020. It was announced at the council meet that with the
current progress rate, it is not possible to achieve United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2030.
Highlights
The Council met at the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) of United Nations in Rome. The UN believes
@upsc_thoughts
that the SDG Goal can be achieved only after a decade, that is by 2040. This is mainly because of lack of
funds. In 2015 the world leaders under the SDG aimed to eliminated hunger by 2030. Also, they estimated
that it can be achieved at a cost of 115 billion USD. However, today, they are in need of more investment to
achieve the target.
IFAD
IFAD is an agency of United Nations that addresses hunger and poverty in rural areas all over the world. It
was established at the World Food Conference in 1974.
Cabinet Approves amendment of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement with Sri Lanka
On February 12, 2020 the Union Cabinet approved the protocol to amend the DTAA (Double Taxation
Avoidance Agreement) that was signed between India and Sri Lanka. The DTAA with respect to prevention
of fiscal evasion is to be amended.
Highlights
Under the amendment, an anti-abuse provision is to be included. Also, the amendment will include Principle
Purpose Test. This will help in curbing strategies that exploit gaps in tax rules.
Significance
Both Indian and Sri Lanka are members of major multilateral organizations such as OECD, G20, BEPS.
Therefore, it is essential for both the countries to implement standards based on Multilateral Convention to
Implement Tax Treaty related measures.
Why Principle Purpose Test?
India is a signatory of MLI, whereas Sri Lanka is not. Therefore, it is essential for the countries to insert
Principle Purpose Test to meet the minimum standards
What is MLI?
In 2016, around 100 countries signed Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty. The treaty includes
features that help to prevent Base Erosion and Profit Shifting. This is called Multilateral Instrument or MLI.
If a country has signed MLI along with India, it is not important to include Principle Purpose Test in the
DTAA. As Sri Lanka is not a signatory, DTAA has been included.
February 13, 2020
Cabinet Approval: Capital Infusion in three public sector Units OICL, UIICL and NICL
On February 12, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved on capital infusion in three Public Sector Units namely
United India Insurance Company (UIICL), Oriental Insurance Company Limited (OICL) and National Insurance
Company Limited (NICL).
Highlights
During the meet the cabinet also approved an immediate release of Rs 2,500 crores in order to address their
critical financial position and also regulate their solvency requirements. The capital infusion is aimed at
merging the three insurance companies in the future. Merging the companies will improve their operational
efficiency and solvency ratio.
The step is being taken to make these companies meet the solvency ratio criteria of IRDA (Insurance
Regulatory Development Authority)
Solvency Ratio
The Solvency ratio is the key metric used to measure the ability of an enterprise to meet its debt obligation.
It indicates if a company has sufficient cash flow in order to meet its long term and short-term liabilities.
It is the ratio between after-tax net operating income and total debt obligations.
Cabinet Approval: India-Iceland MoU in Sustainable Fisheries Development
On February 12, 2020 the Union Cabinet approved the Memorandum of Understanding signed between India
and Iceland in the field of fisheries.
@upsc_thoughts
Highlights
The countries had signed agreements in September 2019, to develop inland fisheries. According to the
agreement, the countries agreed to create facilities of technical experts and scientists in shore areas and
deep sea areas. They also agreed on exchange of scientific research literature, scientific experts in the field
of fisheries.
The agreement strengthens bilateral cooperation between India and Iceland.
Fisheries in India
According to the Economic Survey 2020, fisheries contribute to 6.58% of India’s GDP along with agriculture
and forestry. The export of marine products for the year 2018-19 was 13.92 lakh tonnes. The survey also
says that the total fish production of the country stood at 13.42 million tonnes in the year 2018-19. The
major fisheries resources of India is spread across the vast coast line. It stands at 2.02 million square km
of the Exclusive Economic Zone.
The GoI in 2018-19 allocated Rs 7,522 crores of rupees towards Fisheries and Aquaculture Development
Fund (FIDF).
Cabinet approves Pesticide Management Bill 2020
On February 12, 2020 the Union Cabinet approved to table the Pesticide Management Bill, 2020 in
Parliament. The bill aims at making safe and effective pesticides for farmers. The main aim of the bill is to
replace the Insecticides Act, 1968.
Key Features
The bill includes provisions to provide compensation when there is farm loss due to use of low-quality
pesticides. The loss of farmers is to be paid using funds collected from the manufacturers. The information
regarding the pesticides available in the market is to be made available in digital format. This will help
farmers make the right choice.
Pesticides in India
Around 234 pesticides are used in India. Out of these 4 belongs to WHO’ Ia class pesticides, 15 belong to
WHO Ib class pesticide. There are 76 pesticides that belong to WHO Class II pesticides. Also, only 40% of
the pesticides used in the country are registered.
WHO classification
The WHO classifies pesticides based on the hazards created by them. They are as follows
Class Ia are extremely hazardous pesticides
Class Ib are highly hazardous pesticides
Class II are Moderately Hazardous pesticides

Class III are Slightly Hazardous pesticides
Cabinet approves changes in Vivad Se Vishwas bill, 2020
The Vivad se Vishwas Scheme was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman during the Budget
2020-21. On February 12, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to make required changes in the Vivad Se
Vishwas Bill, 2020 in order to widen its cover over litigation pending in debt recovery tribunal.
Highlights
The amendment has been introduced in order to widen the scope of the scheme in debt recovery tribunal.
About the Scheme
The scheme focuses on tax payers whose tax demands are locked in multiple disputes. It is similar to the
Indirect Tax Sabka Vishwas Scheme.
The scheme aims to resolve 483,000 direct tax dispute cases that are pending in various appellate. The
scheme aims to release 9 lakh crore direct taxes that are locked up in litigation.
Vivad Se Vishwas Bill, 2020
@upsc_thoughts
The bill introduces a resolution mechanism through which an appellant can file a declaration. The authority
(resolution mechanism implementer) will determine the amount payable within 15 days of the receipt of
declaration.
Ayushman Bharat: School Health Ambassador initiative launched

On February 12, 2020, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare introduced School Health Ambassador
initiative. Under the initiative, two teachers in every school are to be made as Health and Wellness
ambassador.
Highlights
The initiative is to be linked with other initiatives such as Eat Right Campaign, Fit India Movement and
Poshan Abhiyan. 11 themes have been identified for the initiative. It includes growing up healthy,
interpersonal relationships, emotional well-being, values and responsible citizenship, nutrition, health,
gender equality, promotion of healthy lifestyles, HIV prevention, safety and security against violence and
promotion of safe use of internet.
The 2 ambassadors appointed under the scheme will work on the above themes. They will focus on health
promotion and prevention component.
Training
The ambassadors are to be trained by the National Resource Group that was constituted by the NCERT.
Implementation
The initiative in the first phase is to be implemented in upper primary and secondary schools in aspirational
districts. The remaining districts are to be included in the second year of the initiative.
February 13: World Radio Day
Every Year February 13 is being celebrated as World Radio Day. The day is being celebrated by UNESCO of
United Nations. The organization calls all radio stations to uphold matters of diversity. This year the day is
celebrated under the theme
Theme: Radio and Diversity
This year theme brings in the diversity in linguistic tolerance, diversity and plurilingualism. Also, it intends to
spread the message that radio is a crucial medium of communication to celebrate intercultural competence,
humanity and democratic citizenship.
Objective
The main objective to celebrate World Radio Day is to increase awareness about radio among media and
public. It also aims to encourage key decision makers to provide access to information through radio.
History
The World Radio Day was first celebrated in 2013. The resolution to celebrate World Radio Day was taken in
2012 United Nations General Assembly.
Significance
Radio is still widely used medium of communication a global level. Also, radio stations help to serve diverse
communities, offer wide view-points and reflect diversity of audience.radio
Draft Rules for International Arbitration Centre issued by GoI
On February 12, 2020, Government of India issued draft rules to set up International Arbitration Centre. In
order achieve institutionalized arbitration, GoI has enacted the New Delhi International Arbitration act, 2019.
Highlights
The draft rules for the arbitration centre prescribe allowances, pay of the full-time members and the
chairperson. The rules have also set minimum educational qualification and method of selection of
employees and officers of the centre.
@upsc_thoughts
Background
The Arbitration and Conciliation act, 1996 was amended to make the arbitration process simpler. The New
Delhi International Arbitration Centre Act, 2019 was enacted to make Delhi an international arbitration
centre.
What is International Arbitration Centre?
The International Arbitration Centre is a dispute settling body that settles arbitration between individuals
and companies.
The world famous arbitration centres include
International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes funded by World Bank
International Court of Arbitration, Paris
United Nations Commission on International Trade Law provides set of rules for international commercial
arbitration along with other investment related rules.
“Apiary on Wheels” launched: A Unique Concept to help bee keeping, achieve National Honey
Mission
On February 13, 2020, the Ministry of MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) launched “Apiary on
Wheels”. It is a unique concept framed by KVIC (Khadi and Village Industries Commission). The main aim of
“Apiary on Wheels” is to make migration easy.
Highlights
Apiary on wheels is an approach to make beekeeping simpler. It is a platform to carry 20 Bee Boxes. The
vehicle has 2 large wheels on either sides and 4 separate compartments to place the boxes.
It also has a solar panel that automatically powers a fan when the temperature inside the boxes reaches 35
degree Celsius.
Also, it is designed in such a way that it can easily be connected with tractors or trolleys.
As a beginning, they are to be placed in mustard farms.
Significance
It addresses the challenges faced by the beekeepers. Bee keeping involves laborious and mental challenges
such a placing the bee boxes in strategic positions, migrating the bee boxes and fulfil the nourishment
needs of the bees. The Apiary on Wheels addresses all the above issues.
The concept was launched as a part of National Honey Mission launched in 2017
National Honey Mission
The mission since its launch has been training beekeepers, educating unemployed youths, distributing bee
boxes. Under the mission, KVIC provides training and awareness to Bee farmers.
BIMSTEC: Conference on Combating Drug Trafficking inaugurated
On February 13, 2020, Union Minister Amit Shah launched the BIMSTEC Conference on Combating Drug
Trafficking in New Delhi. The event was organized by the Narcotics Control Bureau. The Conference was
attended by other BIMSTEC partners Bangladesh, Myanmar, Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand and Sri Lanka.
Highlights
The main objective of the conference is to control the illicit drug trading plaguing Bay of Bengal states.
India has taken lead in organizing the conference.
Significance
The Conference is important because India is currently focusing on Act East Policy and Neighbourhood
Policy. The BIMSTEC platform acts as a platform for India to achieve its objectives.
Also, there is need for such conferences and multilateral initiatives as drug trafficking globally has reached
400 billion USD. In the last 10 years, drug addiction has increased by 30%.
India’s Measures
@upsc_thoughts
In order to control drug trafficking in the country, India has adopted Zero Tolerance Policy. India has also
taken steps at international level. For instance, India is a member of INTERPOL (International Criminal
Police Organization).
INS Jamuna deployed on Hydrographic Survey off coast Sri Lanka
The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Jamuna has been deployed in the shores of Sri Lanka to carry out a joint
Hydrographic survey. The survey is to be conducted for 2 months time period.
Highlights
India and Sri Lanka together are to carry out Hydrographic survey and also shore based survey activities for
a period of 2 months. Apart from surveying, the Sri Lankan Naval Officers will be provided survey training.
Hydrographic Survey
The Hydographic survey is the measurement and study of features that affect maritime navigation. It also
includes offshore oil exploration, dredging, oil drilling and other related activities. The standards and
specifications to conduct the survey is released by International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). It was
established in 1921. The main aim of IHO is to make sure world seas are surveyed and charted properly.
Till October 2019, IHO consists of 93 members. India is also a member.
Indian Naval Hydrographic Department
The office of the department is located in Dehradun. Currently 8 Indian Naval Ships are deployed in the
hydrographic surveys. It includes INS Nirupak, INS Jamuna, INS Investigator, INS Sutlej, INS Sandhayak, INS
Darshak, INS Sarvekshak
February 14, 2020
President’s Colours Awards to INS Shivaji on its 75 years of Service
On February 13, 2020, President Ram Nath Kovind presented the President’s Colours Awards to INS Shivaji.
The Indian Naval Station Shivaji has completed 75 years of service. Last year, the award was given to Indian
Naval Academy.
Highlights
The award was presented to the Indian Naval Station at Lonavala. The station was commissioned as HMIS
(Her Majesty’s Indian Ship) in 1945. The motto of the ship establishment is
Motto: Karmasu Kaushalam (Skill at Work)
The Station has rendered 75 years of service to the country by providing training to the personnel from
Coast Guard, Indian Navy and also for Naval personnel from other countries. The Courses at INS Shivaji are
conducted by AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education)
About INS Shivaji

The INS Shivaji houses Naval Engineering College that trains officers of Indian Navy and Indian Coastal
Guards. It is located near Bhushi Dam. There are three premier institutions at INS Shivaji. It includes Centre
of Excellence, Centre of Marine Engineering and Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defence School.
Foreign Envoys from Gulf and EU visit Jammu and Kashmir for the second time
On February 13, 2020, foreign envoys from Gulf countries and European Union visited Jammu and Kashmir
for the second time after Abrogation of Article 370.
Highlights
The delegation met secretary level officers of Government of India and other senior officers of Jammu and
Kashmir. They also visited business women, traders, entrepreneurs in Jammu and Kashmir. It includes
envoys from Canada, Germany, France, Mexico, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Italy, Austria, Poland and
Uzbekistan.
The Diplomats from 25 countries rode a boat on Dal lake.
Recently, the union ministers visited the valley and submitted their reports about the situation at the Prime
@upsc_thoughts
Minister Office.
Purpose
India is arranging for such foreign visits in order to demonstrate the outside world about the measures
being taken to restore normalcy in the valley. During the first visits of the foreign delegates from European
Union, concerns were raised over internet shutdown. However, today, such issues have been addressed.
Kashmir is being provided with 2G speed internet by the GoI partially.
Internet shut down is a way to disrupt militant activities in the region.
GoI hosts National Organic Food Festival in New Delhi
The Government of India is to host National Organic Food Festival at the National Capital between February
21, 2020 and February 23, 2020. The festival is first of its kind. Around 150 women entrepreneurs are to
participate in the festival
Highlights
The Ministry of Food Processing is organizing National level Food Festival for 3 days. Several Self-Help
Groups are to exhibit their spices, fruits and vegetable, honey, dry fruits, cereals, etc. The main aim of the
festival is to boost production of organic products. The festival is to be conducted under the theme
Theme: Unleashing India’s Organic Market Potential
Purpose
The festival aims to conduct training programmes, marketing innovation programmes, imparting knowledge
about supply of organic products. It will also conduct training programmes on FSSAI regulations that will
help to get familiarized with regulatory processes.
Organic Market Potential of India
India is world’s 9th largest agricultural organic market in the world. It produces 1.7 million tonnes of organic
foods. It includes cotton, pulses, fruits, tea, medicinal plants, coffee, vegetables, sugarcane, oil seeds, etc.
Goal Set
India has set a goal of increasing business of organic sector to Rs 75,000 crores by 2025. In 2015, it was Rs
27,000 crores.
India to partially open up Poultry and Diary Markets to imports from US
Ahead of President Trump’s visit by the end of February 2020, GoI has announced that it is to partially open
the poultry and Diary market to imports from US.
Highlights
India will now allow imports of US turkey, chicken legs blueberries and cherries. The tarrif on Chicken legs
are to be cut from 100% to 25%. The Indian Diary Market is to be opened with 5% tariff on some products.
However, the diary imports will need certificates that they are not derived from animals that have consumed
feeds that include blood meal, internal organs or tissues of animals.
Background
India being the largest producer of milk in the world had restricted diary imports. This was done to protect
the livelihood of 80 million rural households.
In 2019, US had suspended Generalized System of Preferences after India capped the prices of medical
devices such as cardiac stents, knee implants, etc. India now aims to restore the bonds with US.
Concerns
Indi is the second largest trade partner of the United States after China. However, US faces trade deficit of
23.2 million USD with India. United States is working in every possible way to reduce the trade deficit.
Recently, US announced that India is a developed country that it does not require GSP for its goods to be
exported to US.
International Hockey Federation names Indian Hockey Captain “Player of the Year”, 2019
@upsc_thoughts
On February 13, 2020, the International Hockey Federation named the Indian Hockey captain Manpreet
Singh as Player of the Year, 2019.
Highlights
Manpreet is the first Indian to win the title. The accolade was introduced in 1999.
Manpreet Singh
Manpreet Singh is the Indian National Hockey team captain since 2017. He was named the Indian Squad at
the 2016 Summer Olympics. He has played several international games including Asian Games, Common
Wealth Games, Men’s Hockey Champions Trophy.
He is known for his best sportsmanship and patriotism at 2016 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup. Minutes before a
match with Australia, Manpreet received the news of his father’s death. He still played the match and India
won 1-2.
International Hockey Federation
The International Hockey Federation is the governing body of indoor field hockey and field hockey. The
headquarters is located in Lausanne, Switzerland. The Player of the year award is given by the organization
to men and women since 1998. The young category of the honourary award was added in 2001.
Portugal President to make a 4-day visit to India
Portugal President Rebelo de Sousa is to make a four-day visit to India. The last visit by a Portugal
President to India was in 2007.
Highlights
The Portugal President during his visit will hold talks with President Ram Nath and PM Modi. He will also
travel to the states of Maharashtra and Goa. The countries will sign agreements over transfer of
technologies in water and sewerage management systems.
Significance
His visit comes ahead of his taking over as European Union Council Presidency. He will preside over as the
President of European Union in 2021. It is to be noted that the first India-EU summit was held in 2000 during
the presidency of Portugal.
European Union President
There are three Presidents of European Union namely, president of European Council, president of European
Parliament and President of European Commission. On the world stage, the president of European Council
is considered to be the principal president of the organization.
UN’s IFAD Governing Council: Climate Change will push 100 millions to poverty
The Governing Council of International Fund for Agriculture let in Rome recently. The council says that by
2030 around 100 million people will be pushed to poverty. The council also said that this is mainly due to
climate change impact on agriculture.
Highlights
The Government representatives and global development from all over the world attended the 43 rd
Governing Council of IFAD. The Council reported that around 90% of 17.2 million people displaced were due
to climate-related disasters.
Suggestions
The council suggest that there is an urgent need to invest on rural development. This will help avoid the
catastrophes arising due to climate change.
Other causes of Poverty
Apart from climate change, conflicts are the other major cause of poverty and hunger. The Council says that
in Africa alone, the conflicts have risen by 36% between 2018 and 2019.
@upsc_thoughts
Effect on Agriculture
Disasters and Conflicts greatly affect agriculture. They stop agricultural production and stops millions from
lifting themselves from their poor conditions.
The recent Locusts attacks in East Africa and West Asia are the best instances for climate change affecting
agriculture. The locusts made longer stay as the temperatures were favourable for them. Usually, the cold
drives them away. Due to increase in global temperature, they made longer stay.
Antarctica recorded the hottest temperature of 20.75 degrees Celsius
The World Meteorological Organization announced that for the first time in record Antarctica has recorded
its hottest temperature ever, 20.75 Degree Celsius. So far, the highest was 18.3 Degrees Celsius that was
recorded in January 1982.
Highlights
The higher temperatures were influenced by shifts in El Nino and Ocean Currents. According to United
Nations scientists, the Antarctic region stores more than 70% of world’s fresh water. If it melts, the sea level
will increase by 50 to 60 metres.
Significance of Ice Sheet in Antarctica
The ice sheet in Antarctica covers 14 million square kilometres. To the east of Antarctica there lies land
masses under the ice sheets. However, on the west Antarctica the ice beds can extend to more than 2500
metres under the sea.
The Arctic and Antarctic Ice sheets are important as they reflect 80% to 90% of solar radiation. On the other
hand, the other dark surfaced landforms reflect less solar radiation and retain great amount of heat.
India-Portugal sign 7 agreements
The Portugal President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is on a 4-day visit to India. During his visit, he held talks
with PM Modi. After their meeting 4 agreements were signed between the countries
Highlights
The countries signed agreements on culture, transport, investment, industrial and intellectual property
rights. Agreements were also signed on developing a world class national maritime heritage complex at
Lothal.
The GoI also allocated funds for this joint venture in the Budget 2020-21
Budget 2020-21
The Fund allocated in Budget 2020-21 for the Ministry of Culture was 3,150 crores and for that of Ministry of
Tourism was 2,500 crores.
The Fund is partly to be used for construction of a maritime museum at Lothal with the help of Portugal
Government.
The funds will also be used in developing 5 archaeological sites. They are Adichanallur in Tamil Nadu,
Sivasagar in Assam, Hastinapur in Uttar Pradesh, Dholavira in Gujarat and Rakhigarhi in Haryana
Also, a tribal museum is to be set up at Ranchi, Jharkhand.
GoI approves two AIIMS institutes and 9 medical colleges for Jammu and Kashmir
Since the Abrogation of Article 370, the GoI has been keenly focussing on improving the infrastructure in the
Kashmir region.
Highlights
The AIIMS proposal was approved by the Union Government under Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha
Yojana. The cost of the project estimated is Rs 1,661 crores. The project is to be completed by 2022. The
AIIMS will also hold nursing college. Above al, the building is to be constructed as green building.
Green Building
Green Building is a structure that is resource efficient and environmentally responsible. The building is
@upsc_thoughts
resource efficient through out its phase starting from design, construction, maintenance, renovation and
demolition.
Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana
The Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana was launched in 2006. Under the scheme, 6 institutions of
AIIMS were to be built in first phase. They were in the states of Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Odisha,
Uttaranchal and Rajasthan.
In the second phase, 2 AIIMS were set up in UP and West Bengal. Also, 6 medical colleges were set up
In the third phase existing medical colleges were upgraded.
February 15, 2020
India attends Munich Security Conference in Germany
The Munich Security Conference is being held in Germany between February 14, 2020 and February 16,
2020. The Conference was attended by External Affairs minister Jaishankar representing India.
Highlights
The Minister met his counterparts of Georgia, Portugal and Lithuania on the sidelines of the conference.
The minister his Portugal Counterpart as a backdrop of its President visiting India. With Portugal to preside
over the leadership of the European Union council, there are good opportunities for India to extend its
relations with European Union.
Munich Security Conference
The Conference is one of the world’s leading forum that debates on international security policy. Every year
more than 350 officials from 70 countries attend the conference. It includes heads of the states, members
of parliaments, representatives of armed forces, business, media. etc. It was founded in 1963.
The other events conducted on the sidelines of the summit include Cyber Security Summit and Energy
Security Summit. The cyber Security Summit was first launched in 2012. The Energy security summit was
first started in 2013.
Cha-Chai Art Work inaugurated at National Museum by Portuguese president
The Portugal President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is on a four-day visit to India. On February 14, 2020, he
along with the Minister of Tourism, India Prahlad Singh Patel inaugurated a Cha-Chai art-work installation at
the National Museum.
What is Cha-Chai Art Work?
The 5pm tea is a family tradition of the Portuguese. According to their family culture, it strengthens family
bonding. The Cha-Chai art work inaugurated was a teapot art work. It symbolically depicts people to people
relations between the countries.

The Cha-Chai art work inaugurated was made of iron railings. It depicted the bridge between rural and urban
landscape. The aroma of tea in the art work depicted the journey from physical to surreal world.
The President is to visit Goa for two days to sign water management and sewerage management
agreements.
Portuguese in Goa
The Portuguese had ruled Goa for more than 450 years. They arrived in India in the 14th century. Today there
are more than 10,000 to 12,000 Portuguese speakers in the state.
The Indian Army invaded Goa, Daman and Diu in 1961. This brought an end to the Portugal rule in India.
Anniversary of Pulwama Attack: Memorial inaugurated
On February 14, 2020, a memorial was inaugurated at the Lethpora camp for the 40 CRPF (Central Reserve
Police Force) personnel who were killed in Pulwama Attack.
Highlights
The memorial consisted of names of jawans who lost their lives in the attack. It also held the motto of
@upsc_thoughts
CRPF, which is “Seva and Nishta” which means Service and Loyalty.
The Attack
In 2019, February 14, the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist Adeel ahmed Dar drove a car carrying explosives to a
convoy of security forces. This killed 40 personnel.
Counter Measures
Upon the incident, the Home Ministry now allows CRPF to carry their troops by air. Also, the Jammu and
Kashmir Government had imposed a ban on private vehicles to facilitate movement of troops. This means
during their transit; no other private vehicles will be allowed on road. This order was to be rescinded after
return of normalcy.
Following the Pulwama attack, Indian Air Force conducted surgical strikes in Balakot on February 26, 2019.
First Inter-City Electric Bus to operate between Mumbai and Pune
On February 14, 2020, the first inter-city electric bus was launched. The bus will transit between Mumbai
and Pune twice every day. It was launched by the Union Transport Minister Nithin Gadkari.
Highlights
The bus seating capacity was 43. It is capable of running 300 kilo metres in a single charge. The GoI is to
extend the service to other parts of Maharashtra as well. The Ministry of Union Transport is working under
the target of converting all the buses into electric vehicles by 2022.
The bus is to run in PPP (Public Private Partnership) model.
Electric Vehicle Transition
The GoI is now pushing for the Electric Vehicle transition in the country to reduce burden being created by
oil. The CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) transition that happened in 2000s is the best lead to take positive
hopes over EV transition
CNG Transition
In 1993, 3 gas filling stations were opened in Delhi. In 2001, the Supreme Court ordered to replace and
convert all public buses to CNG. In 2005, there were more than 10,000 CNG buses, 5,000 mini buses and
55,000 CNG three wheelers on road. There was significant drop in Delhi pollution after the move. Similar
results are being expected in case of EVs. However, more incentives are required for the EVs to spread
wide.
IISS Study: World Defence spending biggest in 10 years
On February 14, the International Institute of Strategic Studies released its report on Defence Spending all
over the world. The report was titled “Military Balance”. According to the report, the global spending rose by
4% in 2019. This is the largest growth in 10 years.

Highlights
The report also says that the Defence race between China and US has increasing alarmingly. The Military
Modernization Programme in China has led to developing new hard to detect Hypersonic missiles. This has
kindled US to spend alarmingly towards its Defence Programmes. In 2018-19 the United States has spent
53.4 billion USD towards its Defence Programmes.
Relative Spending
Out of all the countries, China and US has increased the spending by 6.6%. The Europe spending has
increased by 4.2%. This is the first time Europe has seen increased levels of spending since financial crisis
in 2008.
NATO members
US is constantly complaining that the NATO members are not contributing enough towards Defence
spending. US had earlier accused Germany for not living up to the 2014 NATO pledge. According to the
NATO pledge the member nation should contribute 2% of its GDP to Defence.
@upsc_thoughts
International Institute for Strategic Studies

The IISS is a British Research Institute that was established in 1997. The IISS was ranked the 10th best
institute in the world by the Global Go To Think Tank Index. It is also the second best Defence and National
Security think tank globally.
February 15: World Pangolin Day; GoI radio tagged Pangolins first time to learn their Ecology
Every year the third Saturday of February month is celebrated as World Pangolin Day. The ninth World
Pangolin Day is being celebrated on February 15, 2020. The numbers of Pangolin is rapidly declining in Asia
and Africa. This is mainly because Pangolin scales are rich in medicinal properties. Recently, China had
found that Pangolin scales can be used to treat Corona Virus infections.
As Pangolins numbers are declining greatly, the Madhya Pradesh Forest Department has radio-tagged
Indian Pangolins for the first time to learn their ecology.
Highlights
The World Pangolin Day is marked by several organizations all over the world including United Nations
Environment Programme.
Significance
They are hunted for their medicinal benefits and culinary delicacy. In December 2019, Xinhua news agency
(China) reported the seizure of more than 10 tonnes of Pangolin scales by the Chinese customs in the
eastern Chinese city Wenzhou. This on one hand proves that there is still quite good population of
Pangolins in the world and on the other hand provides the message that they are still endangered.
Scales of Pangolins
The pangolins use their scales to protect themselves from big carnivores such as tigers and lions. They curl
into a ball when they are being attacked. These scales are now in huge demand in China as they are used in
traditional medicines.
Protection
Pangolins are protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species). In India
they are protected under Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. They are listed under Schedule I of the act. The
IUCN Red List puts the Indian Pangolin under Endangered category.
India’s Measures
For the first time, the Madhya Pradesh Forest department radio-tagged Indian Pangolin in order to learn its
ecology. It is a joint operation of the forest department and the NGO Wildlife Conservation Trust.
“Global Investor Summit” for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir; Road Shows to attract
investments
The Government of India is making preparation in full swing for the Global Investors Summit to be held in
Jammu and Kashmir in April 2020.
Highlights
In order to increase the number of investments roadshows are to be conducted from February 17, 2020. The
roadshows are to be held in Kolkata, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. The Union
Territory is to send 54 senior officials to preside over the roadshows. Jammu and Kashmir will also hold
International Roadshows.
GoI Measures
After Abrogation of Article 370, GOI has been taking several measure to improve the infrastructure in
Jammu and Kashmir. In the Budget 2020-21, the Union Government allocated Rs 30,757 crores separately
for the development of Jammu and Kashmir. Also, several foreign delegates are allowed to visit the region.
This gives them an opportunity to assess the situation in Kashmir and its normalcy. In turn such
@upsc_thoughts
assessments will help to bring in more foreign investments.

Several roads, railway lines tunnels and bridges were built. Under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana,
Jammu and Kashmir achieved highest road length in the country in 2019.
Milan 2020: Biggest Multilateral Naval Exercise in the Indian Ocean Region
Indian Navy is preparing itself for the biggest multilateral naval exercise to be conducted in the Indian
Ocean Region. The Exercise is to be conducted under the theme
Theme: Synergy across the Seas
Highlights
The exercise will include multi-national groupings, simulation of operational scenarios and tactical
maneuvers. Around 42 countries are to participate in the exercise. It includes Russia and USA as well. India
has not invited China to participate in the exercise. The exercise is to be conducted in Vishakhapatnam in
March 2020.
The exercise will act as a common platform for the commanders to exchange their challenges.
History
The Multilateral exercise began in 1995 in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In 1995, only 4 countries
participated. It included Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. It is biennial and was restricted to
friendly nations. However, in its later stages the size of the exercise began to increase. In 2018, the size
grew significantly with around 17 countries participating in the exercise.
Nagpur Oranges Exported to Dubai first Time
On February 13, 2020, the first Consignment of Nagpur Oranges were sent to Dubai from Navi Mumbai. The
oranges were sent in refrigerated containers.
Highlights
In the state of Maharashtra, around 40 hectares of land is under cultivation of Nagpur oranges. The APEDA
(Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) selected Nagpur district as a
cluster for oranges under Agriculture Export Policy.
Significance
The production of the fruit is increasing in central and western India. The Mrig crop that matures between
February and March has great potential for export. This is because arrival of these fruits are less in the
international market during this period.
Global Scenario
The International trade of oranges in the year 2018 was 10,183 million USD. In 2018-19, India produced
8,781 thousand tonnes of oranges.

Mrig Crop
The monsoon flowering, that is during June is called Mrig. These crops are available for harvest between
November and March.
First Integrated Tri-Service Command to be set up in June by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)
The Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat aims to set up an integrated tri-service command for the first time
by June 2020. This command will be headed by an Air Marshal.
Highlights
The talks among the CDS, Air Force Chief RKS Bhadauria and Army Chief General Manoj Mukund Naravane
have begun regarding the creation of the command. Along with this, the CDS officer is also planning to
create a joint peninsula command.
Every service that is to be created is to be provided with air defence set up. The Air Defence will integrate
assets of Navy, air force and army.
About CDS
@upsc_thoughts
The creation of CDS post was recommended by Group of Ministers that studied the Kargil Review Committee
(1999) report. The most important factor is that the CDS will not command over any of the services. He will
only work towards the coordination of the services. After resigning or demitting from the post, he is not
eligible to hold any of the government posts.
Quiz: February 01, 2020
1. ‘SAMPRITI’ is a joint military training exercise between India and which country?
[A] Japan
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] China
[D] Bangladesh
Answer: Bangladesh
‘SAMPRITI’ is a joint military training exercise between India and Bangladesh. The ninth edition of the
exercise -SAMPRITI-IX is set to be conducted at Umroi, Meghalaya from February 3 to 16, 2020.
The exercise, which is a part of the Indo-Bangladesh defence cooperation, is annually hosted by both
countries alternately. Last year, the exercise was conducted in Tangail, Bangladesh. During the exercise,
the troops of both the countries will work together to tackle Counter Terrorist Operation in a simulated
environment, as per the United Nations Charter. Several exercises including Command Post Exercise,
Field Training Exercise and joint tactical exercise are also scheduled.
2. India recently observed ‘Martyrs’ Day’ on 30th January, to pay homage to which Indian leader?
[A] Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
[B] Netaji Subash Chandra Bose
[C] Mahatma Gandhi
[D] B.R. Ambedkar
Answer: Mahatma Gandhi
‘Martyrs’ Day’ is observed across the country every year on January 30. The day is observed to pay
homage to the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi and the sacrifices of other Indians who laid down
their lives for the country.
This year India observes the 72nd death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. All national leaders including
President, Vice President, Prime Minister and the heads of defence services paid homage to Mahatma
Gandhi and other martyrs of India. March 23 is also observed as Martyrs’ day to pay tribute to the three
freedom fighters -Bhagat Singh, Rajguru and Sukhdev.
3. Which Indian journalist has been chosen as the recipient of 2019-20 PEN Gauri Lankesh Award?
[A] Ravish Kumar
[B] Yusuf Jameel
[C] N Ram
[D] Prannoy Roy
Answer: Yusuf Jameel
Veteran Indian journalist Yusuf Jameel, was chosen for and awarded the ‘2019-2020 PEN-Gauri Lankesh
Award for Democratic Idealism’. The award was presented to him, for his revolutionary journalism in
Jammu and Kashmir, during the insurgency period.
PEN International is a global association of writers, which was founded in 1921. PEN South India and
PEN Delhi have instituted the annual award to cherish and honour the assassinated journalist and
activist Gauri Lankesh. The award is offered to an individual or organisation, whose work demonstrates
courageous and democratic journalism, on birth anniversary of Gauri Lankesh.
4. As per the recent Economic Outlook Survey released by FICCI, what is the estimated median GDP growth
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forecast for 2019-20?

[A] 5.0%
[B] 5.1%
[C] 5.2%
[D] 5.3%
Answer: 5.0%
The Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) recently released its latest round
of Economic Outlook Survey. As per the survey, the annual median GDP growth forecast for 2019-20 is
estimated at 5.0%.
The survey also revealed that the GDP growth is likely to improve to 5.5% in 2020-21. The median growth
forecast for Agriculture and allied activities and the industry are predicted at 2.6% and 3.5% respectively
for 2019-20. The services sector is expected to grow at 7.2% during the current year. A median forecast
of 4.7% for GDP growth has been estimated for the third quarter of 2019-20.
5. Who has been appointed as the new Chairman of the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs,
recently?
[A] Pranab Kumar Das
[B] Ajay Bhushan Pandey
[C] M. Ajit Kumar
[D] Atanu Chakraborty
Answer: M. Ajit Kumar
As per the recent order issued by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, the
Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the appointment of M. Ajit Kumar as the next
Chairman of Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC).
The announcement has been made just two days ahead of the Union Budget, which is to be presented on
1st February 2020. M. Ajit Kumar is a 1984-batch Indian Revenue Service Officer, who is presently a
member of CBIC. Pranab Kumar Das was the previous Chairman of CBIC.
6. Ajmal Sultanpuri, who passed away recently, was a renowned poet in which language?
[A] Hindi
[B] Urdu
[C] Marathi
[D] Gujarati
Answer: Urdu
Ajmal Sultanpuri was a 97-year-old renowned Urdu poet, who passed away recently in his native place
Sultanpur, Uttar Pradesh.
The poet was a recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award by Uttar Pradesh Urdu Academy in March
2016 for his significant contribution to Urdu poetry. He has written several Urdu poems and some of his
noted poems include “Kahan Hai Mera Hindustan” and “Agar Main Tera Shahjahan”. He protested
against social discrimination in his early age and his poems are based on communal harmony and
multiculturalism of India.
7. The Department of Telecom, India has recently taken over process to issue and manage the allocation of
IMEI. What does IMEI stand for?
[A] Indian Mobile Equipment Identity
[B] International Mobile Equipment Identity
[C] Indian Multimedia Equipment Identifier
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[D] International Multimedia Equipment Identifier

Answer: International Mobile Equipment Identity
The IMEI (International Mobile Equipment Identity) number is a 15-digit unique serial number of mobile
devices. It is allocated by a global industry body GSMA and its authorised organisations. In India, Mobile
Standards Alliance of India (MSAI) is the official reporting body of GSMA.
Recently, the Department of Telecom has taken over the process of issuing and allocating the IMEI
numbers for mobile phones in India from the private body MSAI. The new ‘Indian Counterfeited Device
Restriction (ICDR) system’, which has been developed by the R&D unit of DoT is being tested on pilot
basis on the web portal of Central Equipment Identity Register (CEIR).
8. Khadi wrist watches have been recently launched by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission, in
association with which company?
[A] Fossil
[B] Titan
[C] Timex
[D] Casio
Answer: Titan
The Union minister Nitin Gadkari recently launched the unique Khadi wrist watches, which have been
manufactured as part of a joint initiative by the Khadi and Village Industries Commission and leading
Indian consumer goods firm, Titan. The watches have been launched on the death anniversary of
Mahatma Gandhi, also features the iconic charka.
The Minister also suggested to showcase the watches in international airports to attract buyers. As per
the announcement from KVIC, 1 square meter of Khadi fabric is used for manufacturing 10 watches and
1,000 such watches are proposed to be sold.
9. Who has been appointed as the next ambassador of India to Nepal?
[A] Taranjit Singh Sandhu
[B] Vijay Gokhale
[C] Vinay Mohan Kwatra
[D] Ajit Kumar
Answer: Vinay Mohan Kwatra
Veteran diplomat Vinay Mohan Kwatra has been recently appointed as India’s next ambassador to
Nepal, as per the recent announcement made by the Ministry of External Affairs.
Vinay Kwatra is a 1988 batch Indian Foreign Service (IFS) officer, who is currently serving as the
Ambassador of India to Paris. He has now replaced Manjeev Singh Puri who has attained
superannuation from service. Vinay Kwatra has held instrumental positions in several organisations
including Permanent Mission of India in Geneva, SAARC Secretariat in Nepal, Embassy of India in
Washington among others.
10. Which Indian think tank has been ranked among the top 30 think tanks globally, as per a recent report?
[A] Observer Research Foundation (ORF)
[B] NITI Aayog
[C] Centre for Civil Society (CCS)
[D] The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI)
Answer: Observer Research Foundation (ORF)
As per the 2019 ‘Global Go To Think Tank Index Report’, Indian think tank Observer Research Foundation
(ORF) has been placed among the top 30 think tanks globally, at rank 27.
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The report is released by the Lauder Institute at the University of Pennsylvania. The list was topped by
Carnegie Endowment for International Peace of the United States. Last year, ORF was placed at 118th
position, more than 90 ranks below the current rank. The Raisina Dialogue, jointly organised by ORF is
also ranked 7th best conference globally.
Quiz: February 02-03, 2020
1. What is the GDP growth rate of India, in 2018-19, as per the recent statement from the National Statistical
Office (NSO), on January 31,2020?
[A] 6.8%
[B] 6.4%
[C] 6.2%
[D] 6.1%
Answer: 6.1%
The National Statistical Office released revised estimates for economic growth of India for the last three
years, on January 31,2020. As per the report, it fixed the actual GDP growth 2018-19 at 6.1%, against its
previous estimate of 6.8%, estimated in May 2019.
The National Statistical Office also stated that the main reason for the downward revision in the GDP
growth rate is deceleration in farming and mining activities in primary sector and manufacturing
activities in secondary sector. It also marked the growth rate in 2017-18 as 7%. Recently, NSO estimated
the growth rate in 2019-20 to be 5%.
2. Which global tech firm has launched a short-video making application called ‘Tangi’, which focusses on
creativity?
[A] Microsoft
[B] Facebook
[C] Google
[D] Adobe
Answer: Google
Technological major Google has recently launched a short-video making application called ‘Tangi’, which
is similar to the popular application TikTok.
The application has been launched initially on the web and iOS platforms. Users have to post a short-
video on a ‘Do-it-yourself’ (DIY) and creativity content using the application. The application for 60-
second-videos has been designed by the incubator of Google called ‘Area 120’. The name of the
application is inspired by ‘Teach and Give’ and ‘Tangible’ things. Communities centered around similar
hobbies can also be formed.
3. According to the recent Economic Survey 2019-20, which state has the cheapest Vegetarian Thali (food
plate)?
[A] Kerala
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Bihar
[D] Tripura
Answer: Jharkhand
The Economic Survey 2019-20 was recently presented by the Chief Economic Adviser Krishnamurthy
Subramaniam on January 31, 2020. The term called ‘Thalinomics’ was used, which means the
affordability of buying a Thali (Food Plate).
It states that, Jharkhand has the cheapest Vegetarian Thali (meals plate), less than Rs.50. The survey
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also revealed that the affordability for a vegetarian plate has improved by 29% in the last 13 years while
the cost has increased in the year 2019. The affordability of the meals has saved nearly Rs.10000 on an
average per year to an average household.
4. As per the recent Economic Survey 2019-20, what is the rank of India globally in number of new firms
created?
[A] 3
[B] 4
[C] 5
[D] 6
Answer: 3
The Economic Survey 2019-20 presented on January 31, 2020 stated that India is ranked third globally in
number of new firms created. It also revealed that as many as 1,24,000 new firms have been created in
India in the year 2018 alone.
The survey quoted this data on firm creation from the World Bank’s data on entrepreneurship. The
number of new firms created from 2014 to 2018 grew at a rate of 12.2 per cent. It also stated that more
new firms were created in services sector in the country when compared to the agriculture and
manufacturing sectors.
5. Which Indian-American has been appointed as the new Chairman of the tech company- International
Business Machines Corporation (IBM)?
[A] Arvind Krishna
[B] Abidali Neemuchwala
[C] Sundar Pichai
[D] Shantanu Narayen
Answer: Arvind Krishna
International Business Machines Corporation (IBM) has appointed Indian-American Arvind Krishna as its
new Chairman. The 57-year-old leader is currently serving as the head of the ‘Cloud and Cognitive
software unit’ of IBM.
He is known for playing an instrumental role in the acquisition of Red Hat by IBM, undertaken last year.
He has also led the development of several advanced technologies by IBM including cloud and quantum
computing. He replaces the long-time female CEO of IBM, Virginia Rometty, who will continue to serve
as the company’s executive Chairman.

6. When is the Anti-leprosy day for the year 2020, observed across the world?
[A] January 26
[B] January 27
[C] January 28
[D] January 29
Answer: January 26
The ‘Anti-leprosy day’ is observed annually on the last Sunday of January, across the world. This year,
the day is observed on Janaury 26, 2020, the month’s last Sunday.
The World Health Organisation has adopted a theme of ‘Leprosy isn’t you think’ to create awareness to
fight the prejudice and discrimination associated with the disease. In India, the Confederation of Indian
Industry (CII) signed an MoU with the charitable organization- Sasakawa India Leprosy Foundation (S-
ILF) to eradicate leprosy in the country.
7. The European Union has how many countries in its bloc, after the exit of the United Kingdom?
@upsc_thoughts
[A] 26
[B] 27
[C] 28
[D] 29
Answer: 27
After nearly four years of the referendum voted by the British people for Brexit, the United Kingdom
officially left the European Union, at 11.00 p.m on January 31, 2020.
After Britain left the bloc, the European Union has 27 more countries. The process by which the member
state leaves the Union has expired and UK has entered the transition period, which will remain till
December 31, 2020. The UK will continue to obey the EU laws and courts during the transition period. A
new 50-pence coin was launched recently to mark the occasion.
8. The India International Leather Fair (IILF), 2020 is being held in which city?
[A] Bhopal
[B] Cuttack
[C] Chennai
[D] Kochi
Answer: Chennai
The 35th edition of India International Leather Fair (IILF), 2020 is being held in the capital city of Tamil
Nadu, Chennai. The fair is being held from February 1 to 3, 2020 at the Chennai Trade Centre.
The fair is organized by India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO), which functions under aegis of
Ministry of Commerce and Industry for promoting country’s external trade. A large variety of products
related to leather industry are being displayed in the 3-day-long international fair. Latest trends and
designs of the global fashion are also showcased in the event.
9. Abidali Neemuchwala, who resigned recently, was the Chief Executive Officer of which popular Indian IT
firm?
[A] Infosys
[B] Tata Consultancy Services
[C] Wipro
[D] HCL
Answer: Wipro
Abidali Neemuchwala recently submitted his resignation from the Chief Executive Officer post at the
leading Indian Information Technology firm Wipro.
He has served as the CEO and the Group President of the company for four years and Managing Director
since July 2019. Abidali has sought resignation citing family commitments. He will continue to serve in
the post until a proper successor is appointed by the company’s board of directors. Rishad Premji has
recently taken over as the Executive Chairman of Wipro, replacing his father Azim Premji.
10. The 250th flight operation under the RCS – UDAN scheme was recently commenced between
Bhubaneswar and which Indian city?
[A] Lucknow
[B] Varanasi
[C] Patna
[D] Prayagraj
Answer: Varanasi
The wholly-owned subsidiary of Air India, Alliance Air recently commenced the direct flight operations
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from Bhubaneswar to Varanasi. The daily flight operation is started under the RCS-UDAN (Regional
Connectivity Scheme – Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik).
This route also marks the 250th route which has been made operational under the RCS – UDAN. This is
also the 58th route commenced by Alliance Air, under RCS. Recently, the airline started daily flight
operations on the Kolkata-Jharsuguda route. The flight is scheduled to depart Bhubaneswar at 12.15 pm
and reach Varanasi at 2.05 pm while the flight from Varanasi will leave at 2.30 pm and reach
Bhubaneswar at 4.20 pm.
1. According to the recent Union Budget 2020-21, what is the disinvestment target of the Indian Government
for 2020-21?
[A] ₹ 1.0 Lakh Crores
[B] ₹ 1.1 Lakh Crores
[C] ₹ 1.2 Lakh Crores
[D] ₹ 1.3 Lakh Crores
Answer: ₹ 1.2 Lakh Crores
In the Union Budget 2020-21, the Government has set its disinvestment target at ₹ 1.2 Lakh Crores for
the fiscal year 2020-21. The government also expects ₹90,000 crore revenue from disinvestment of
government stake in public sector banks and financial institutions, including the LIC and IDBI bank. This
is in addition to the 1.2 Lakh Crore target and hence a total of ₹ 2.1 Lakh Crores worth disinvestment is
scheduled.
This year, the government has missed the disinvestment target of ₹1.05 lakh crore. So far, ₹18,000 crore
has been generated via disinvestment. The revised estimates set ₹65,000 crore as disinvestment target
for this fiscal.
2. As per the recent Union budget, what is the estimated fiscal deficit target for 2020-21, expressed in per
cent of GDP?
[A] 3.3%
[B] 3.4%
[C] 3.5%
[D] 3.6%
Answer: 3.5%
In the recent Union Budget 2020-21, the government has estimated the fiscal deficit target for 2020-21
at 3.5 per cent of GDP (Budget Estimate).
The fiscal deficit target for 2019-20 was estimated at 3.3% earlier, which has also been revised to 3.8%
of GDP, citing revenue shortage as the reason. Under the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management
(FRBM) Act, the Section 4 (2) permits the government to relax its fiscal deficit target during time of
unanticipated stress. This section has been used to increase the previous target to 3.8% in the revised
estimates.
3. What is the maximum insurance provided for bank deposits, as per the latest Union budget 20-21?
[A] ₹ 1 Lakh
[B] ₹ 2 Lakh
[C] ₹ 2.5 Lakh
[D] ₹ 5 Lakh
Answer: ₹ 5 Lakh
The Union Finance Minister hiked the maximum insurance provided for bank deposits to ₹ 5 Lakh, per
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depositor, in her recent Union Budget 20-21.

As per the existing guidelines of the Reserve Bank of India, deposits of the customers with all
commercial banks and cooperative banks are insured under the Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee
Corporation (DICGC). Each depositor is insured up to a maximum of ₹1 lakh on deposits in all types of
accounts (current, savings, fixed) in a particular bank. This 1 lakh limit is now increased to 5 lakhs, per
depositor.
4. What is the name of the new scheme proposed in the budget, which is to be implemented by the Aviation
Ministry, for transporting agricultural products?
[A] Udan 5.0 scheme
[B] Kisan Udan Scheme
[C] Krishi Udan Scheme
[D] PM Kisan Udan Scheme
Answer: Krishi Udan Scheme
A new scheme was proposed in the budget, which is to be implemented by the Aviation Ministry, for
transporting agricultural products of farmers. The scheme was named as ‘Krishi Udan Scheme’.
The scheme is to be launched by the ministry on both international and national routes, which will
improve the value realisation on the agricultural products of the farmers. The scheme will assist the
farmers with more focus on north-east and tribal districts. The UDAN scheme was launched in 2016, to
boost regional connectivity at affordable air-fares. The airlines are provided concessions from the
centre, state and airport operators.
5. Who clinched the men’s singles title in the recently held Australian Open tournament, 2020?
[A] Roger Federer
[B] Rafael Nadal
[C] Novak Djokovic
[D] Dominic Thiem
Answer: Novak Djokovic
The Serb Tennis star Novak Djokovic clinched his eighth Australian Open title, second in a row, by
defeating Dominic Thiem of Austria 6-4, 4-6, 2-6, 6-3, 6-4, in the Australian open finals.
This is the 17th Grand Slam trophy of Djokovic, in his entire tennis career, and he is only behind the other
two stars Roger Federer (20) and Rafael Nadal (19). The 32-year-old ace tennis player had already won 5
Wimbledon, 3 U.S Open and 1 French Open titles. This is also his fifth trophy from the last seven major
Grand slams, he had competed.
6. Pramod Agrawal was recently appointed as the new Chairman and Managing Director of which Public
Sector Enterprise?
[A] Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL)
[B] Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL)
[C] Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL)
[D] Coal India Limited (CIL)
Answer: Coal India Limited (CIL)
Pramod Agrawal assumed charge as the new Chairman and Managing Director of Coal India Ltd, a
Maharatna Public Sector Enterprise. https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
Public Enterprises Selection Board recommended the name of the 1991 batch IAS officer from Madhya
Pradesh cadre for the post of Chairman and Managing Director. Prior to this appointment, he was
serving as the Principal Secretary for urban development and housing department in Madhya Pradesh.
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He replaced A K Jha, who retired as the chairman of Coal India Ltd on January 31, 2020.
7. The third private train of the IRCTC is set to run between Varanasi and which Indian city?
[A] Indore
[B] Bhopal
[C] Nagpur
[D] Jaipur
Answer: Indore
As per the recent announcement of the Chairman of the Railway Board Vinod Kumar Yadav, the third
private train of the IRCTC is set to run between Varanasi and Indore.
The train which is to be operated overnight, is expected to have the same rakes as in the Humsafar
Express. The train is set to run three days a week between the cities- among them two days will be
operated via Lucknow and one day via Allahabad. The first two private trains are operated on two routes
namely Delhi-Lucknow and Ahmedabad-Mumbai.
8. Which Indian diplomat was recently appointed as India’s High Commissioner to Sri Lanka?
[A] Ajay Bisaria
[B] Gopal Baglay
[C] Vinay Mohan Kwatra
[D] Taranjit Singh Sandhu
Answer: Gopal Baglay
Veteran Indian diplomat Gopal Baglay was recently appointed as the India’s High Commissioner to Sri
Lanka. Gopal Baglay, who is currently serving at the Prime Minister’s Office, is expected to assume
charge in a short time.
He has succeeded Taranjit Singh Sandhu, who has recently been appointed as the Indian Ambassador to
the United States. Gopal Baglay is a 1992-batch officer of the Indian Foreign Service and has held
several important positions during his career. He has served as the Deputy High Commissioner of India
to Pakistan and Spokesperson of the External Affairs Ministry.
9. Which country has national emergency to tackle the attack of locust swarms?
[A] India
[B] Pakistan
[C] Iran
[D] Afghanistan
Answer: Pakistan
Pakistan has recently witnessed its worst locust attack ever in decades and has declared national
emergency for tackling their attack. The insects are reported to have destroyed crops on a large scale in
Punjab, the main agricultural region of the country. The swarms of locust are currently found on the
Pakistan-India border along Cholistan.
The decision to declare national emergency was taken at a meeting convened by Pakistan Prime
Minister Imran Khan. A National Action Plan (NAP) was also approved, which requires a sum of ₹7.3
billion to tackle the crisis. Somalia has also declared national emergency for the same reason, recently.
10. In which Indian city, the Indian navy conducted its coastal security exercise, ‘Matla Abhiyaan’?
[A] Cochin
[B] Kolkata
[C] Mumbai
[D] Vishakhapatnam
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Answer: Kolkata
The Indian Navy has conducted a five-day-long coastal security exercise called ‘Matla Abhiyaan’ at
Kolkata, which started on 29 January. The exercise is named after the Matla river, which flows around
the Sundarbans.
The exercise aims at interacting with coastal communities to spread awareness on coastal security.
During the exercise, the naval personnel interacted with the coastal police stations. The naval team also
visited local schools to spread awareness on coastal security. This exercise is expected to help the
naval crew in understand the navigational complexities in the Sundarbans.
1. “Sophisticated Analytical & Technical Help Institutes (SATHI)” is an initiative of which Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
[B] Ministry of Science and Technology
[C] Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
[D] Ministry of Human Resource Development
Answer: Ministry of Science and Technology
The Department of Science & Technology (DST), under the Ministry of Science and Technology has
launched a scheme called “Sophisticated Analytical & Technical Help Institutes (SATHI)”. It owns high-
end analytical testing instruments and reduce the dependency on foreign sources.
DST announced that it has planned to set up five SATHI Centres every year for the next four years. There
are already three such institutes in the country at IIT Kharagpur, IIT Delhi and BHU, at a total cost of
Rs.375 Cr. The SATHI Centre will run 24×7 throughout the year and external users from other academic
institutes and start-ups will be given more time to use the instruments.
2. Which state bagged the award for ‘Best performance in Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana’, recently
presented by the Union Minister of Women & Child Development?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Karnataka
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Madhya Pradesh
Union Minister of Women & Child Development Smriti Irani recently presented the Pradhan Mantri Matru
Vandana Yojana awards to the best performing States, Union Territories and Districts.
Madhya Pradesh bagged the first place in the category of best performance States/ UTs with more than
1 crore population. The state is followed by Andhra Pradesh and Haryana. In the category of states with
less than 1 Crore population, Dadra & Nagar Haveli is at the first place, followed by Himachal Pradesh
and Chandigarh.
3. Which Indian state has recently declared the disease caused by the novel coronavirus as a “state
calamity”?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Kerala
[C] Karnataka
[D] Telangana
Answer: Kerala
The state Government of Kerala declared the disease caused by the novel coronavirus as a “state
calamity”. This declaration comes at the backdrop of three people of the state being tested positive for
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coronavirus.
Kerala reported the first infection from the virus in India and the person is being treated in isolation
wards. Later two other patients, who are the students of a medical college in Wuhan, China are also
diagnosed with the virus infection. The novel coronavirus was first reported in China’s Wuhan city and
has spread to nearly 25 other countries.
4. The Hubbali to Dharwad Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) project was recently inaugurated in which
state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Telangana
Answer: Karnataka
The Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu recently inaugurated the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) project
between the twin cities of Karnataka, Hubbali to Dharwad.
The project cost of Rs 970 crore is jointly funded by the state and central governments and the World
Bank. The BRTS established between the cities on a trial basis already serves more than 1 lakh
passengers per day. It has now become fully operational and is expected to be a major boost in the
state’s public transport.
5. Which banker of India has been named as the Central Banker of the Year (Asia-Pacific 2020), by the
Banker magazine?
[A] Raghuram Rajan
[B] Shaktikanta Das
[C] Urjit Patel
[D] Viral Acharya
Answer: Shaktikanta Das
The Banker magazine has named the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das as the
Central Banker of the Year- Asia-Pacific 2020. ‘Global Central Banker of the Year’ award was presented
to Jorgovanka Tabakovi, National Bank of Serbia.
The award is given to central bankers who have significantly managed to stimulate growth and stabilise
the economy of their country. Shaktikanta Das was nominated as he successfully managed various
economic crises of the country including the Non-Banking Financial companies (NBFC) crisis and Non-
performing assets of Indian banks.
6. The famous arts festival called ‘Kala Ghoda Arts Festival’ is celebrated annually in which Indian city?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Mumbai
[C] Kolkata
[D] Bengaluru
Answer: Mumbai
The famous arts festival called ‘Kala Ghoda Arts Festival’ is celebrated annually in the city of Mumbai.
The 21st edition of the street festival has recently commenced. This year, the nine-day-long festival has
a variety of events in 12 sections, related to arts, music, cinema, literature, theatre and heritage walks.
This year’s edition of KGAF has been organised entirely through crowd-funding using the platform
named ‘Ketto’, without the conventional sponsorship. The annual festival has been organised by the Kala
Ghoda Association since 1999.
@upsc_thoughts
7. The third Defence Attaches conference, 2020 was recently held in which city?
[A] Ahmedabad
[B] New Delhi
[C] Kanpur
[D] Lucknow
Answer: New Delhi
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurated the third Defence Attaches conference at New Delhi.
He also announced that India is set to have 10 more Defence Attaches in 10 different countries.
This creation of additional 10 defence wings will strengthen the defence diplomacy of the country and
help in increasing exports in defence sector. Under the central government scheme of promoting
defence exports, funds are allocated for export through Defence attaches to 34 countries.
8. The Scientists at Indian Veterinary Research Institute have recently developed a low-cost vaccine for
which disease?
[A] Bird Flu
[B] Swine Fever
[C] Foot and Mouth Disease
[D] Monkey pox
Answer: Swine Fever
The Scientists at Indian Veterinary Research Institute (ICAR-IVRI), an institute of Indian Council of
Agricultural Research, have recently developed a low-cost vaccine for the classical swine fever. Swine
fever is a disease associated with high mortality and illness in pigs.
Until now, the swine fever vaccines have been imported for domestic usage and moreover the imported
vaccines are to be administered once in every six months. But a single shot of the new indigenous
vaccine would be sufficient for the animal’s life time. This would be an affordable option for the farmers
and also assist in pork production and export.
9. “Babenco: Tell Me When I Die”, which won the ‘Golden Conch Award for Best Documentary Film’ at the
Mumbai International Film Festival 2020, is a film of which country?
[A] Canada
[B] Brazil
[C] France
[D] South Korea

Answer: Brazil
“Babenco: Tell Me When I Die” won the ‘Golden Conch Award for Best Documentary Film’ at the Mumbai
International Film Festival 2020. It is a Brazilian documentary film, directed by the filmmaker Barbara
Paz.
The award was presented at the 16th edition of the film festival, which was graced by the Maharashtra
governor Bhagat Singh Koshyari. Nagraj Manjule’s “Paavsacha Nibandh” received the Silver Conch
award for Best Short Fiction Film. The Silver Conch Award for the Best Animation Film has been shared
by the German film “Portrait of Suzanne” and the Indian film “Panangaatu Nari” by Divakar SK.
10. L&T MBDA Missile Systems (LTMMSL) has recently set up a missile integration facility at which state?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Karnataka
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Kerala
@upsc_thoughts
Answer: Tamil Nadu

L&T MBDA Missile Systems (LTMMSL) has recently set up a missile integration facility at Coimbatore
city in the state of Tamil Nadu. LTMMSL is a joint venture between the engineering and construction firm
Larsen &Toubro and the European defence company MBDA.
The 16,000 sq.m-inert integration facility is set up in a Special Economic Zone and will manufacture
weapon systems to domestic and global markets. It also has finer equipment for testing the Missile
Subsystems and weapon launch systems. This project is a part of the Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial
Corridor.
1. Which state government recently launched a scheme called ‘Janasevaka’ to home-deliver various
government services to citizens?
[A] Telangana
[B] Karnataka
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Karnataka
The state government of Karnataka has recently launched a scheme called ‘Janasevaka’ to home-deliver
various government services to citizens. The scheme ensures the delivery of ration cards, senior citizen
identity and health cards at the door steps of citizens.
The newly launched scheme is a part of the ‘Sakala’ scheme of the state and will cover as many as 53
services of 11 state departments. The scheme was first implemented in Dasarahalli area on a pilot basis
and will be extended to other regions. Subsequently, the scheme would be made operational in
Bengaluru, Mysuru, Mangaluru and Hubballi-Dharwad.
2. The Union Cabinet of India recently approved amendments to bring which category of banks under the
regulation of Reserve Bank of India?
[A] Multi-state cooperative banks
[B] Land Development Banks
[C] Primary agricultural societies
[D] Nidhi companies
Answer: Multi-state cooperative banks
The Union Cabinet of India recently approved amendments to the Banking Regulation Act, which will
bring multi-state cooperative banks under the regulation of the Reserve Bank of India.
This amendment in regulation is expected to prevent malpractices in the co-operative banks and ensure
better regulation. The administrative role of the banks will be managed by the cooperative registrars.
This decision is taken at the backdrop of the collapse of Punjab and Maharashtra Co-operative (PMC)
Bank last year. The banks would also be audited according to the norms stipulated by RBI.
3. Which country’s delegation of educational institutions recently visited India and signed agreements in the
fields of higher education and research?
[A] Canada
[B] Norway
[C] Germany
[D] Japan
Answer: Norway
Authorities from the Norwegian Ministry of Education and Research have recently signed agreements
@upsc_thoughts
with India in the fields of higher education and research, in New Delhi.
This agreement is a part of the visit of delegation of important educational institutions of Norway to
India. Among the several agreements signed, the significant pact was between the Indian Institute of
Technology (IIT) Delhi and The Arctic University of Norway (UiT), for co-operation in the fields of bio-
photonics, health and diagnostic tools, nanotechnology.
4. Which Indian actor was recently presented with the ‘Kishore Kumar Samman’ Award for 2018, by the
Madhya Pradesh government?
[A] Waheeda Rehman
[B] Asha Parekh
[C] Vyjayanthimala
[D] Hema Malini
Answer: Waheeda Rehman
Veteran Indian actor Waheeda Rehman was recently conferred with the prestigious Kishore Kumar
Samman Award for the year 2018. The award was instituted by the Madhya Pradesh government.
Famous director Priyadarshan was conferred with the Kishore Kumar Samman for the year 2019, on the
death anniversary of the legendary actor Kishore Kumar, October 13, 2019. As Waheeda Rehman could
not receive the award during the ceremony, she was presented the award now, by the Madhya Pradesh
culture minister Dr Vijaylaxmi Sadho.
5. Pranab Kumar Gogoi, who recently passed away, was a famous personality in which field?
[A] Sports
[B] Literature
[C] Arts
[D] Politics
Answer: Politics
The MLA of Sivasagar constituency in the state of Assam, Pranab Kumar Gogoi recently passed away.
He had also served as the Speaker of the Assam state assembly.
The noted legislator was born in 1936 and was an advocate by profession. He was a veteran member of
the Congress Party and was first elected to the state assembly in 2001. He was known for introducing
the definition of the term “Assamese”, during the previous term of Congress government in the state.
6. Which Indian city is set to play host to the 15th East Asia Summit conference, 2020?
[A] New Delhi

[B] Hyderabad
[C] Chennai
[D] Ahmedabad
Answer: Chennai
The 15th East Asia Summit conference of the year 2020 is set to be organised by India, in the southern
city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu. The conference will mainly focus on co-operation in maritime security and
challenges in maritime domain.
During the 14th East Asia Summit (EAS) in Bangkok in November 2019, the Indian Prime Minister
announced that the Indian Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) would organise the next EAS conference, in
partnership with the governments of Australia and Indonesia. As announced, the EAS Conference on
Maritime Security Cooperation would be held in Chennai from February 6-7, 2020. This is the fourth EAS
conference organised by India.
7. The flagship biennial Defence exhibition of India ‘DefExpo’ is organised in which Indian city?
@upsc_thoughts
[A] New Delhi

[B] Lucknow
[C] Bengaluru
[D] Hyderabad
Answer: Lucknow
The biennial Defence exhibition of India, ‘DefExpo’ was recently inaugurated at Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
by the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister also attended the
inaugural programme.
A live demonstration of naval systems, aerial systems and land systems was performed during the
ceremony. The main theme of the DefExpo 2020 is ‘India: The Emerging Defence Manufacturing Hub’
and the focus will be on ‘Digital Transformation of Defence’. The five-day-exhibition is to be attended by
delegates and military manufacturers from more than 70 countries. The fifth India-Russia Military
Industry Conference is also to be held on the side-lines of the event.
8. Which Asian country recently introduced a “sustainable development fee” for regional tourists including
Indian visitors?
[A] Thailand
[B] Bhutan
[C] Cambodia
[D] Sri Lanka
Answer: Bhutan
Bhutan recently introduced a “sustainable development fee” for regional tourists, as there is a sharp rise
in Indian visitors to the country. The lower house of Bhutan Parliament passed the legislation in this
regard.
The regional tourists, who were previously exempted from the fee were the tourists from India,
Bangladesh, and the Maldives. Now for entering Bhutan, they have to pay a fee of 1,200 ngultrums
($16.85) per day. The fee, which will be charged from July 2020, will assist the government in tackling
the traffic control due to sharp rise in tourist count.
9. What is the GDP growth rate of India in the 2020-21 fiscal, as estimated by the Moody’s Investors
Service?
[A] 6.5%
[B] 6.0%
[C] 5.5%
[D] 5.0%
Answer: 5.5%
Moody’s Investors Service recently released its estimates for India’s GDP growth in the upcoming
fiscals. It lowered the real GDP growth projection for the next 2020-21 fiscal to 5.5 per cent, from its
previous estimate of 6.3 per cent. The government’s Economic survey has projected a growth rate of
6-6.5% for the next fiscal.
It also stated that the GDP growth for the current fiscal ending March 31 would be 4.9 percent, which is
slightly lower than the estimate of the government. For the fiscal 2021-22, it predicted a growth rate of 6
per cent, down from 6.7 per cent which was projected earlier.
10. Former world champion Mirabai Chanu, who recently set a new national record in the National
Weightlifting Championships, belongs to which state?
[A] Haryana
@upsc_thoughts
[B] Uttar Pradesh

[C] Manipur
[D] Rajasthan
Answer: Manipur
Ace Indian weight-lifter, Mirabai Chanu set a new national record in the National Weightlifting
Championships in Kolkata, by improving her previous record. The former world champion and common
wealth gold medallist belongs to the state of Manipur.
Mirabai lifted a total of 203kg to win the 49kg gold, which was better than her previous best- 201 kg,
which she had achieved at the World Championships at Thailand, in September last year. The 25-year-old
weight-lifter was placed fourth in the world rankings. Jeremy Lalrinnunga, another top weight-lifter from
India won the men’s 67kg title in the Championship.
1. What is the rank of India in the recently released International intellectual property index 2020?
[A] 36
[B] 40
[C] 42
[D] 44
Answer: 40
The US Chamber of Commerce Global Innovation Policy Centre (GIPC) recently released the latest
edition of International intellectual property index. In the list, India is ranked 40, with a score of 38.46%,
higher than the last year’s score.
India was placed at 36th rank in the last year’s list, which ranked 50 countries across the world. This
year the Centre included 53 economies. The United States, the United Kingdom, Sweden, France and
Germany retained their positions and were placed at the top five spots in the intellectual property index
list.
2. Union Cabinet of India approved Alliance Air to start flight operations between India and which country,
by waiving 20-aircraft rule?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Mauritius
[C] Thailand
[D] Singapore
Answer: Sri Lanka
The Union Cabinet has granted approval to Alliance Air to fly between India and Sri Lanka, by waiving the
rule that an airline needs to own minimum 20 aircrafts to operate internationally.
Alliance Air, which is a 100 per cent subsidiary of Air India, has five years of experience but does not
have 20 aircrafts. A special exemption is allowed for the interim period, until the airline deploys the
higher among- a minimum of 20 aircraft or 20 per cent of total capacity. There was no commercial
operation scheduled from Palaly and Batticaloa airports of Sri Lanka, before this approval.
3. Britain’s Prince Charles has launched a new Children’s protection fund for which Asian country?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] India
[C] Bangladesh
[D] Nepal
Answer: India
@upsc_thoughts
The Prince of Britain, Charles has recently unveiled a new children’s protection fund for India. This fund
is a part of the charity founded by him in 2007, the British Asian Trust. The trust was founded to fight
poverty in South Asia.
Noted American singer Katy Perry was named as the ambassador of the new fund. The Protection fund
will focus on reducing the exploitation of children by 50 per cent in India over 10 years. The Children’s
Protection Fund will primarily cover child sexual abuse, child labour and trafficking. School safety nets
are also proposed to be aet up through child-friendly village models.
4. Which country recently launched the ‘International Religious Freedom Alliance’ for protecting religious
freedom across the world?
[A] Russia
[B] United States
[C] Japan
[D] India
Answer: United States
The United States recently launched the International Religious Freedom Alliance, which is aimed at
protecting and preserving religious freedom across the world.
The U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announced the formal launch of the alliance. As many as 27
countries have joined the alliance and the prominent countries among them are Australia, Brazil, the
United Kingdom, the Netherlands and Greece. He also announced that the next ministerial to Advance
Religious Freedom will be hosted by Poland in Warsaw, in July 2020.
5. Which social-media platform recently announced that it will label the fake news and remove harmful data
shared on its platform?
[A] Whatsapp
[B] Twitter
[C] Instagram
[D] Youtube
Answer: Twitter
US-based social networking and microblogging service, Twitter recently announced that it would label
the fake media shared on its platform.
From next month, Twitter will start labelling the photo or video, so that its users can identify that the
media has been manipulated. It also announced that, the firm may remove some media, which are
harmful to public safety. Twitter is proposed to use three tests by analysing whether the media is
doctored by authenticity, source of sharing and its potential for harm.
6. India’s 13th major port is set to be established in which state, as per the recent Cabinet approval?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Kerala
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Tamil Nadu
Answer: Maharashtra
The Union Cabinet of India recently approved to set up 13th major port of India, at Vadhavan in
Maharashtra. The project is to entail a total cost of Rs 65,544 crore.
The government is expected to hold 51 per cent stake in the project of the new port. All related business
activities would be done under private-public partnership (PPP) mode. A special purpose vehicle is
proposed to be formed, which would develop the infrastructure of the new port. This port would promote
@upsc_thoughts
cargo movement from Gujarat, Maharashtra and other land-locked states.

7. Which Indian city was recently certified formally as a World Heritage site by UNESCO?
[A] Varanasi
[B] Ahmedabad
[C] Jaipur
[D] Nagpur
Answer: Jaipur
The Pink City of India, Jaipur was formally certified as a World Heritage site by the Director General of
UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay. The World Heritage City certificate was presented at a ceremony held at the
historic Albert Hall of Jaipur.
It was also announced that UNESCO would collaborate with the Tourism department of Rajasthan
Government to promote tourism sector in Western Rajasthan. The walled city of Jaipur was named as a
UNESCO World Heritage site in July 2019, at the 43rd Session of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee
in the city of Baku, Azerbaijan.
8. The Union Cabinet recently approved to confer the status of Institution of National Importance (INI) to
how many Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs)?
[A] 2
[B] 3
[C] 4
[D] 5
Answer: 5
The Union Cabinet recently approved the Indian Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs) Laws
(Amendment) Bill, 2020, to confer the status of Institution of National Importance (INI) to five Indian
Institutes of Information Technology (IIITs).
The Five IIITs in Public-Private-Partnership mode at Surat, Bhopal, Bhagalpur, Agartala and Raichur are
to conferred with the INI status. After the status has been granted, the institutions would be able to
award degrees and to use the nomenclature of Bachelor of Technology (BTech) or Master of Technology
(MTech) or PhD degree. The existing 15 IIITs had already been provided with the INI status.
9. Israel’s Elbit Systems recently signed an MoU with which Indian company for developing an unmanned
aerial vehicle?
[A] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited

[B] Defence Research and Development Organisation
[C] Bharat Electronics Limited
[D] Indian Space Research Organisation
Answer: Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
During the on-going exhibition DefExpo-2020, an MoU was signed between Hindustan Aeronautics
Limited and Israel’s Elbit Systems, for joint development of an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV).
The agreement aims at analysing the feasibility of developing an UAV, which performs vertical take-off
and landing, for maritime and land-based military operations. The proposed UAV will cut down the huge
costs associated with maintenance of manned helicopters. The vehicles with greater potential, will also
be more efficient in military operations. The Indian armed forces could deploy them for operating in
unsafe areas or for surveillance missions.
10. Which Indian celebrity is at the top spot in the latest brand valuation study by Duff & Phelps?
[A] Akshay Kumar
@upsc_thoughts
[B] Virat Kohli

[C] P V Sindhu
[D] Deepika Padukone
Answer: Virat Kohli
Indian Cricket star Virat Kohli retains his top rank in the latest brand valuation study by Duff & Phelps.
He is placed at the first spot third year in a row.
The report revealed that Virat Kohli has increased his brand value by 40 per cent to $237.5 million in
2019. The second place was bagged by Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar, who pushed the last year’s
second rank holder Deepika Padukone to third. The third spot is shared by actor Ranveer Singh. Former
Indian captain M.S.Dhoni is placed at 9th place in the list.
1. The first India-Africa Defence Ministers’ Conclave was recently held in which city?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Lucknow
[C] Cape town
[D] Nairobi
Answer: Lucknow
The first ever India-Africa Defence Ministers’ Conclave was recently held in the city of Lucknow, during
the 11th edition of the biennial defence exhibition DefExpo 2020.
The Defence Ministers and Heads of Delegation from African countries and the Defence Minister of
India jointly held the first India Africa Defence Ministers’ Conclave. The Conclave adopted the Lucknow
Declaration. Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat, Chiefs of all the three services were also
present in the event. Prior to this, during the third India-Africa Forum Summit (26-30 October 2015), the
Delhi Declaration was adopted.
2. Which famous writer was recently selected for the Mystic Kalinga Literary Award (Indian and Global
Languages)?
[A] Manoj Das
[B] Pratibha Ray
[C] Surendra Mohanty
[D] Ramakanta Rath
Answer: Manoj Das

The prestigious Mystic Kalinga Literary Award (Indian and Global Languages) is to be presented to the
noted Odia and English writer Manoj Das. The award would be presented during the Mystic Kalinga
Festival (MKF) which commences in Bhubaneswar on February 8.
The Mystic Kalinga Literary Award is conferred to a person who has made significant contribution to the
literature and culture of Odia. The bilingual writer recently received the country’s third-highest civilian
award- Padma Bhushan, for his contribution in the field of literature and education. He had also been
conferred with the Saraswati Samman award.
3. What is the projected growth rate of India, during the next financial year 2020-21, as per the recent
Monetary policy of RBI?
[A] 5%
[B] 5.5%
[C] 6%
[D] 6.5%
@upsc_thoughts
Answer: 6%
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently projected the economic growth of the country to grow by 6 per
cent during the next financial year. This is the lower end of the growth projection as announced by the
government in the economic survey, which estimated a rate of 6-6.5 per cent. RBI also stated that the
Indian economy continues to be weak.
The first half of the year would grow in the range of 5.5-6.0 per cent and the third quarter at 6.2 per cent,
as per the RBI. But this projection is higher than the GDP growth projection of 5%, made in the monetary
policy statement of December 2019.
4. The fifth India-Russia Military Industrial Conference was recently organised in which city?
[A] Moscow
[B] New Delhi
[C] Lucknow
[D] St. Petersburg
Answer: Lucknow
The fifth edition of the India-Russia Military Industrial Conference was recently organised in the northern
Indian city, Lucknow. The Conference was organised on the sidelines of the biennial Defence exhibition
DefExpo 2020.
As many as 14 MoUs related to production of different defence equipment, radar systems, ASW Rocket
launchers and 3D modeling were signed between the companies from India and Russia. Among several
Indian companies, the prominent ones which signed the agreements were BHEL, Bharat Dynamics
Limited and Vista control.
5. Which organisation is set to release Digital Payments Index (DPI), which will assess the digitalisation of
payments in the country?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
[C] Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
[D] National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM)
Answer: Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) recently released its statement on developmental and regulatory
policies, along with the February 2020 Monetary policy statement.
In the statement, the central bank announced about the launch of Digital Payments Index (DPI), which
will assess the digitalisation of payments in the country. The DPI will accurately measure the
penetration of digital payment modes among the general public of the country. The index is proposed to
be launched from July 2020.
6. Which city plays host to the 22nd India International Seafood Show, after a gap of 12 years?
[A] Vishakhapatnam
[B] Goa
[C] Kochi
[D] Chennai
Answer: Kochi
The city of Kochi, Kerala hosts the 22nd India International Seafood Show, after a gap of 12 years. The
three-day seafood show has been inaugurated by the Governor of Kerala, Arif Mohammed Khan on
February 7,2020.
The event will provide a platform for collaboration of the exporters and importers of the country’s marine
@upsc_thoughts
products and seafood industry. The theme of the programme is ‘Blue Revolution: Beyond production to
value addition’. Marine Product Export Development Authority (MPEDA) organises the event in
association with Seafood Exporters’ Association of India.
7. Which state/UT has recently renamed its Public Health Engineering, Irrigation and Flood Control
Department as the ‘Jal Shakti Department’?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Puducherry
[C] Jammu and Kashmir
[D] Chandigarh
Answer: Jammu and Kashmir
The Administrative Council under the chairmanship of Lt Governor G C Murmu recently approved the
renaming of the state’s Public Health Engineering, Irrigation and Flood Control Department as the ‘Jal
Shakti Department’.
The council also approved the implementation of the Jal Jeevan Mission and the strategy to achieve 100
per cent coverage of piped water supply across the UT, by December 2021. It was also proposed to set
up a Mission Directorate of Jal Jeevan Mission for implementation of the scheme. Seven districts of the
UT would be covered for 100 per cent piped water supply by June 2020, in the initial phase.
8. The indigenous air to ground missile ‘Khagantak’, which was unveiled during the ongoing DefExpo 2020,
is built by which firm/organisation?
[A] Defence Research and Development Organisation
[B] Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd
[C] JSR Dynamics
[D] Bharat Electronics Limited
Answer: JSR Dynamics
A private Indian firm has recently unveiled the indigenous air to ground missile ‘Khagantak’, during the
ongoing DefExpo 2020. The firm has manufactured the air to ground missile with a strike range of 180
km.
The Managing Director of JSR Dynamics Air Marshal SB Deo announced the missile and said that when
released from a height of 12 km, the missile is an air-launch weapon. It can be used as a guide weapon,
which also has artificial intelligence (AI) to recognise the targets. Such indigenous missiles are
expected to be a boost to the ‘Make in India’ initiative and reduce our dependence on foreign defence
manufacturers.
9. What is the theme for this year’s International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation,
observed on February 6?
[A] End Female Genital Mutilation
[B] Unleashing Youth Power
[C] A Piece of Me
[D] Intensify global efforts
Answer: Unleashing Youth Power
International Day of Zero Tolerance for Female Genital Mutilation is observed annually on February 6,
across the world. Genital Mutilation, or altering the female genitalia for non-medical reasons is prevalent
in 30 countries in Africa the Middle East and other parts of the world.
In 2012, the UN General Assembly designated February 6th as the International Day of Zero Tolerance
for Female Genital Mutilation and the UN works for the complete eradication of the practice by 2030.
@upsc_thoughts
United Nations Population Fund, jointly with UNICEF, holds a global programme to eliminate the
practice.
10. Who has been named as the head of the trust for construction of the Ram Temple, which was recently
constituted by the Centre?
[A] K. K. Venugopal
[B] K Parasaran
[C] G E Vahanvati
[D] Maninder Acharya
Answer: K Parasaran
As per the Supreme Court ruling on November 9, 2019, a trust had to be set up for the construction of
the Ram Temple within three months of the court order. Hence the Indian Government constituted the
trust, which is named as ‘the Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Teertha Kshetra’. https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
Former Attorney General of India, Advocate K Parasaran has been named as the head of the trust, which
will function at his residence in Delhi. The advocate had earlier represented the litigant ‘Ram Lalla’ in the
dispute and earned the verdict in its favour. An independent 15-member team has been named as the
members of the trust, which will always have a trustee from the Dalit community, as per the Union Home
Ministry.
Quiz: February 09-10, 2020
1. The cybersecurity project codenamed Dejfa, that was recently making news, belongs to which country?
[A] Pakistan
[B] Iran
[C] Malaysia
[D] China
Answer: Iran
Digital Fortress (Dejfa in Persian) is the name of a cybersecurity project of Iran. This has been frequently
in news in recent times as Iran faces frequent DDoS attacks and cyber attacks. On 8th February also, the
agency was able to avert a massive DDoS attack.
2. How many major ports of India are named after individuals?
[A] Two
[B] Three
[C] Four
[D] Five
Answer: Four
India has 12 major ports viz. Deendayal Port Trust, Paradip Port Trust, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust,
Mumbai Port Trust, Visakhapatnam Port Trust, Chennai Port Trust, Kolkata Port Trust, New Mangaluru
Port Trust, V. O. Chidambaranar Port Trust, Kamarajar Port Limited, Kochi Port Trust, Mormugao Port
Trust. Of these, Deendayal (earlier Kandla), JNPT (earlier Nava Sheva), V. O. Chidambaranar (earlier
Tuticorin) and Kamarajar (earlier Ennore Port) are named after individuals.
3. The term “SPICe”, sometimes seen in news, is related to which of the following fields?
[A] Science & Technology
[B] Environment Protection
[C] Business & Economy
[D] Defence and Arms Production
Answer: Business & Economy
@upsc_thoughts
Ministry of Corporate Affairs is replacing the existing SPICe (Simplified Proforma for Incorporating
Company Electronically) form with a new web form called SPICe+. The existing form, which is used for
reservation of name, company incorporation, DIN allotment, and application for PAN/TAN, in its new
avatar, would offer 10 services by three central government ministries and departments.
4. The term “Batterygate”, recently in news, is related to which of the following tech giants?
[A] Google
[B] Samsung
[C] Apple
[D] Microsoft
Answer: Apple
Batterygate refers to implementation of performance controls on older models of Apple’s iPhone line in
order to preserve system stability on degraded batteries.
5. Recently, Esperanza Base on the Antarctic Peninsula reached a temperature of 18.3 °C , thus becoming
the hottest on record for continental Antarctica. Esperanza Base is a research station of which country on
Antarctica?
[A] France
[B] Portugal
[C] Argentina
[D] England
Answer: Argentina
Esperanza Base (Hope Base) is a permanent, all-year-round Argentine research station in Hope Bay,
Trinity Peninsula in Antarctica.
6. Seer Goverdhanpur in Uttar Pradesh is the birth place of which Bhakti saint?
[A] Kabir
[B] Dadu
[C] Ravidas
[D] Ramanand
Answer: Ravidas
Sant Ravidas was a 14th-century saint and founder of the Bhakti movement in North India. He was born
at Seer Goverdhanpur near Banaras.
7. In the wake of the coronavirus fears, recently the Baltic Dry Index sank to all time low plunging into
negative territory. What is tracked by Baltic Dry Index?
[A] Crude Oil Prices
[B] Freight Rates
[C] Tourist Arrivals
[D] International Flights
Answer: Freight Rates
Baltic Dry index tracking freight rates for world’s largest cargo ships recently plunged into negative
territory due to coronovirus.
8. On February 8, 2020, Thaipoosam festival was celebrated by the Tamil community around the world. This
festival marks birth day of which deity?
[A] Thirumal
[B] Murugan
[C] Nataraja
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[D] Pavadairayan
Answer: Murugan
Thaipoosam is a festival celebrated by the Tamil community on the full moon in the Tamil month of Thai,
usually coinciding with Pushya star, known as Poosam in Tamil. It is believed to be Murugan’s birthday
by many.
9. Which Indian crop faces danger due to a fungus called Alternaria brassicae as per recent news?
[A] Rice
[B] Wheat
[C] Mustard
[D] Sugarcane
Answer: Mustard
Alternaria brassicae is a fungus that causes blight in the Mustard and Rapeseed crops. Yield in a field
infected by fungus Alternaria brassicae can come down by as much as by 47 per cent, if remedial
measures are not taken.
10. Which Hollywood actor is playing Dr. Kalam in his upcoming biopic?
[A] Nuveen Andrews
[B] Michael C. Hall
[C] Muhammad Ali
[D] Terry O’Quinn
Answer: Muhammad Ali
Hollywood actor Muhammad Ali is playing Dr. Kalama’s role in the movie. The movie is a co-production
of Suvarna Pappu, Managing Director of a Hollywood Production House, Hollywood Director, Jagadeesh
Daneti and Hollywood Producer & Director Johnny Martin.
1. Which state has recently launched an initiative to establish hotels to provide meals at subsidised price
called ‘Kudumbashree’ hotels?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Telangana
[C] Kerala
[D] Tamil Nadu
Answer: Kerala
The state government of Kerala has recently unveiled a scheme to establish hotels to provide meals at
subsidised rates called ‘Kudumbashree’ hotels. The announcement was made during the presentation of
state’s budget.
The hotels are to be set up in in each of the 1034 local bodies and Kerala meals is to be available at a
subsidised price of Rs 25. Kudumbashree is an initiative of the state government for poverty eradication
and women empowerment.
2. Which Metro rail service in India has become the second largest operational metro rail network in the
country?
[A] Delhi Metro
[B] Kochi Metro
[C] Hyderabad Metro
[D] Chennai Metro
Answer: Hyderabad Metro
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The Chief Minister of Telangana recently flagged off the stretch of Hyderabad Metro between Hyderabad
and its sister city Secunderabad. With this, Hyderabad Metro has become the second largest operational
metro rail network in the country, only after the Delhi Metro Rail.
Hyderabad Metro is also the biggest metro project in the world in Public Private Partnership (PPP)
mode, with a total project cost of ₹20,000 crore, constructed by Larsen & Toubro.
3. What is the profession of Anoop Mishra, who has been in news recently?
[A] Politician
[B] Army Major
[C] Sportsperson
[D] Musician
Answer: Army Major
Anoop Mishra, an Indian Army Major from the College of Military Engineering was known for having
developed a bulletproof jacket which protects against sniper bullets. He was seen in news recently as he
has now developed a helmet, which is also the world’s first, that can stop an AK-47 bullet round from 10
meters.
Indian Army’s College of Military Engineering in collaboration with a private firm has developed India’s
first and world’s cheapest gunshot locator called ‘Parth’, which can locate the bullet from a distance of
400 meters.
4. Which state recently launched “Mukhyamantri Parivar Samridhi Yojana”, which provides an annual
assistance of Rs 6000 to the needy families?
[A] Odisha
[B] Haryana
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Punjab
Answer: Haryana
The Chief Minister of Haryana Manohar Lal has recently launched Mukhyamantri Parivar Samridhi
Yojana. Under this scheme, an annual financial assistance of Rs 6000 is to be provided to the families in
the State, whose annual income is up to Rs 1.80 lakh and who own land below 5 acres.
This ensures that the premiums for various welfare schemes of the Central Government, pension
scheme and crop insurance are paid automatically from the bank accounts of the needy families.
5. Arun-III, is the hydropower project of which country, to be built with assistance from India?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Bangladesh
[C] Nepal
[D] Bhutan
Answer: Nepal
India and Nepal recently signed the financial closure of Arun-III, which is the largest hydropower project
of Nepal. The 900 MW hydropower project is under construction in Nepal, with an estimated cost of
$1.04 million.
The project, which is to be built with the financial assistance from India, is to be completed in 5 years. It
is being built by Satluj Jal Vidyut Nigam (SJVN) Arun-III Power Development Company (SAPDC), a joint
venture of the Government of India and the Government of Himachal Pradesh.
6. The Pollution Control Board of which state recently received the national award for e-Governance
2019-20?
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[A] Odisha
[B] Kerala
[C] Telangana
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Answer: Andhra Pradesh
The Andhra Pradesh Pollution Control Board (APPCB) bagged the national award for e-Governance
2019-20 for its Real-Time Pollution-Monitoring System (RTPMS) project, during the 23rd National
Conference on e-Governance held in Mumbai.
Under the RPTMS project, an alert is sent to the concerned officials if an industrial unit exceeds the
desired pollution levels.
7. Which country has reportedly auctioned licenses to hunt elephants, to tackle human-animal conflict?
[A] Zimbabwe
[B] Namibia
[C] Botswana
[D] Mozambique
Answer: Botswana
The South African country Botswana has the largest elephant population in the world. Recently, the
country was seen in news as it auctioned licenses to hunt elephants, to tackle human-animal conflict.
In the capital city of the country Gaborone, the licenses to hunt 70 elephants were said to be auctioned.
The government had lifted the ban on hunting, which was prevalent for five years.
8. The book- ‘A Child of Destiny’, which was recently released by the Indian Vice President, is an
autobiography of which Indian educationist?
[A] K. Ramakrishna Rao
[B] Girishwar Misra
[C] Amit Abraham
[D] Devendra Singh
Answer: K. Ramakrishna Rao
Renowned Indian philosopher and educationist Prof. K. Ramakrishna Rao has authored his
autobiography, which is titled as ‘A Child of Destiny: an autobiography’. It was released by the Indian
Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu, in Visakhapatnam.
The Professor, Vice Chancellor of GITAM University, was also the recipient of the prestigious Padma
Shri award. He had also been awarded the National Fellowship of the Indian Council of Philosophical
Research.
9. Which city’s police recently launched an initiative called ‘Operation Nakai’ to verify the identity of auto-
drivers?
[A] Mumbai
[B] Ghaziabad
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Lucknow
Answer: Ghaziabad
The City Police has recently launched ‘Operation Nakail’ in Ghaziabad, to verify the identity of auto-
drivers of the city. Under the initiative, a unique four-digit number will be allotted to every auto-rickshaw
of the city.
The owner of the vehicle has to paint the number, his name and mobile number on the auto, which would
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be easy to identify them. After many crimes were reported to be held in auto-rickshaws, this initiative
was launched.
10. Municipal Performance Index (MPI), is an index recently launched by which organisation/ Ministry?
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs
[C] Ministry of Home Affairs
[D] National Development Council
Answer: Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs
The Union Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs has recently launched two Assessment Frameworks,
namely Ease of Living Index (EoLI) and Municipal Performance Index (MPI) 2019.
The two indices are expected to assess the quality of life of citizens in 100 Smart Cities and 14 other
cities, with more than 1 million population. The MPI assesses the performance of municipalities based
on five parameters of Service, Finance, Planning, Technology and Governance.
1. Which city is host to the 13th UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) (COP 13),
2020?
[A] Mumbai
[B] Madrid
[C] Gandhinagar
[D] Tokyo
Answer: Gandhinagar
The 13th UN Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) (COP 13) is scheduled to be
hosted by India in 2020, at Gandhinagar, Gujarat. The COP-13 (Conference of Parties) is to be held from
February 15-22, 2020.
It was recently announced that the Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the summit. The
theme of this year’s summit is, ‘Migratory species connect the planet and we welcome them home’.
2. Recently, the Supreme Court of India upheld the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention
of Atrocities) Amendment Act. When was the original act of 1989 amended?
[A] 2016
[B] 2017
[C] 2018
[D] 2019
Answer: 2018
The Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act of 1989 was legislated to
protect the scheduled communities from harassments and atrocities.
In March 2018, the Supreme court gave a judgement diluting the original act and it even granted
anticipatory bail for those booked in the atrocity case. After huge protest, the government amended the
original act and passed the SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Act, 2018. This amendment
has been upheld by the apex court.
3. American Factory, which won the Oscar for the best feature-length documentary, was produced by which
famous American personality?
[A] Donald Trump
[B] Barrack Obama
[C] Hillary Clinton
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[D] Tiger Woods

Answer: Barrack Obama
Recently, the Oscar award for best feature-length documentary was presented to ‘American Factory’. It
was the first documentary released by Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company named ‘Higher
Ground’.
The documentary film was released in the Netflix, and it is about an Ohio auto glass factory that is run
by a Chinese investor, who employs American and Chinese workers. Many global issues such as the
rights of workers, globalization and automation are focussed in the film.
4. Which bird is named the mascot of UN Convention of Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) (COP
13)?
[A] Great Indian Bustard
[B] White-bellied heron
[C] Forest owlet
[D] Lesser Florican
Answer: Great Indian Bustard
The Great Indian Bustard is named the mascot of the UN Convention of Conservation of Migratory
Species (CMS) (COP 13). India has recently proposed to include three species- the Asian elephant, the
Great Indian Bustard and the Bengal Florican in the list of ‘migratory species threatened with extinction’,
under the CMS-COP 13.
The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has recently unveiled a draft
Visionary Perspective Plan (2020-2030), for conserving the bird species and their eco-systems.
5. ‘Ajeya Warrior‘ is the joint military exercise conducted between India and which country?
[A] Japan
[B] United Kingdom
[C] Israel
[D] France
Answer: United Kingdom
The fifth edition of joint military exercise ‘Ajeya Warrior’ between India and the United Kingdom will be
conducted at Salisbury Plains, United Kingdom. The exercise is scheduled from February 13 to 26, 2020.
120 soldiers each from Indian and United Kingdom Army would participate in the exercise. The joint
military exercise has been conducted alternatively in United Kingdom and India. The training will be held
with emphasis on counter-terror operations in urban and semi-urban areas.
6. Which Union Ministry releases the Public Enterprises Survey, on the performances of Central Public
Sector Enterprises?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
[C] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[D] Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises
Answer: Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises
The Department of Public Enterprises (DPE) under the Union Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public
Enterprises, releases the annual Public Sector Enterprises Survey, on the performance of Central Public
Sector Enterprises (CPSEs).
Recently, the Public Enterprises Survey -2018-19 was tabled in both the Houses of Parliament, which
stated that BSNL, Air India and MTNL are the top loss-making PSUs for the third consecutive year. The
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top three profit-making PSUs include Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Indian Oil Corporation and
NTPC.
7. Which state government recently launched the ‘Reading Mission’ initiative for students?
[A] Odisha
[B] Kerala
[C] Haryana
[D] West Bengal
Answer: Haryana
The state government of Haryana has launched an initiative called ‘Reading Mission- Haryana’. The
initiative was launched to encourage reading habit among the young students of the state.
The scheme is on the lines of the ‘Reading Mission 2022’, launched by the central government. Under the
state’s initiative, monthly book review sessions and mass book reading are to be organised by students
in educational institutions.
8. When is the World Pulses Day observed, across the world?
[A] February 8
[B] February 9
[C] February 10
[D] February 11
Answer: February 10
In 2019, the United Nations General Assembly announced 10 February as the World Pulses Day. This
was followed by the celebration of the year 2016 as the International Year of Pulses (IYP), across the
world, led by the Food and Agriculture Organization.
The day is celebrated to raise awareness about the nutritional values of pulses and ways to tackle
malnutrition through pulses.
9. Which Union Ministry has recently launched the web portal for ‘Star rating of Coal mines’?
[A] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
[B] Ministry of Coal
[C] Ministry of Mines
[D] Ministry of Earth Sciences
Answer: Ministry of Coal
Ministry of Coal (MoC) has recently launched a web portal for star rating of coal mines. Under the portal,
all operational coal mines across the country will be enabled for self-rating. The mines will be
subsequently validated by Coal Controller’s Organization (CCO), the subordinate office of Ministry of
Coal.
The mechanism on the portal would award star rating to the mines with certain evaluation parameters
under 7 modules.
10. The storm ‘Ciara’ recently hit several countries of which continent?
[A] Asia
[B] Europe
[C] Australia
[D] North America
Answer: Europe
European countries witnessed a devastating storm named ‘Ciara’, which caused huge damage and killed
as many as six people. The hurricane-force winds and heavy rains damaged several thousand buildings
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in the region.
The storm moved on near Germany, after hitting Britain and Ireland. It was called as ‘Ciara’ by the Irish
weather service and dubbed as ‘Sabine’ in Germany. Flood warnings are given and flight operations are
suspended in the countries.
1. The 2nd BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise, 2020 has been conducted in which city?
[A] Thimphu
[B] Bhubaneswar
[C] Colombo
[D] Kathmandu
Answer: Bhubaneswar
The 2nd Seven-nation BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise, 2020 was recently inaugurated at
Bhubaneswar, the capital city of Odisha by its Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
The Exercise is hosted by the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) as the nodal agency. The theme
of the exercise is- “Response to a cultural heritage site that suffers severe damage in an earthquake” &
“Response to a Cultural Heritage site that is affected by flooding or storm surge”.
2. Hakim Ajmal Khan, was an eminent physician in which field of Medicine?
[A] Homoeopathy
[B] Sowa Rigpa
[C] Ayurveda
[D] Unani
Answer: Unani
The birth anniversary of great Unani physician and social reformer Hakim Ajmal Khan is celebrated as
the World Unani Day every year on 11th February.
He was a founder of scientific research in Unani System of Medicine and one of the founders of the
Jamia Millia Islamia in New Delhi. Originated in Greece, the field of medicine was introduced in India by
the Arabs and Persians. The day is celebrated to create awareness about health care through the Unani
system.
3. As per the notification of the Ministry of health and family welfare, which component will be treated as
‘drugs’ from April 1, 2020?
[A] Medical devices

[B] AYUSH drugs
[C] Alcohol
[D] Raw materials for drugs
Answer: Medical devices
The Ministry of health and family welfare recently said in a notification that all medical devices sold in
the country would be treated as drugs and would be regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act of
1940, from April 1, 2020.
As of now, only 23 medical devices are being categorised as drugs. Only a few of these including
cardiac stents and intrauterine devices have been brought under price control. The decision was taken
after discussing with the Drugs Technical Advisory Board (DTAB).
4. What is the official name of the virus outbreak from China, as per the World Health Organisation?
[A] COVID-19
[B] CORO-19
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[C] n-COR -19

[D] NOVEL-19
Answer: COVID-19
The World Health Organisation (WHO) recently announced that the deadly virus outbreak from China will
be officially called as “COVID-19”.
The official name was announced to avoid references of particular geographic locations, species of
animals or group of people. It has earlier named the virus as “2019-nCoV acute respiratory disease”,
temporarily. In the official name, ‘CO’ stands for “corona”, ‘VI’ for “virus” and ‘D’ for “disease”, while ‘19’
denotes the year.
5. What does ‘GSP’ stand for, in the context of India- US trade?
[A] Globalised System of Preferences
[B] Generalized System of Preferences
[C] Globalised System of Partners
[D] Generalized System of Partners
Answer: Generalized System of Preferences
The United States Trade Representative’s (USTR’s) office has recently classified India as a developed
economy and it is ineligible for GSP benefits from the US.
The Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) scheme offers a lower tariff to the exporters of a select
group of developing countries. India is the largest beneficiary nation under the GSP, which enjoyed a
tariff-free access to the US, till last June.
6. Who has been appointed as the chairman of the newly formed space PSU, New Space India Ltd (NSIL)?
[A] Satheesh Reddy
[B] K Sivan
[C] G Narayanan
[D] Kasturi Rangan
Answer: G Narayanan
Renowned space scientist G Narayanan has been named the Chairman of New Space India Ltd (NSIL),
Indian Space Research Organisation’s newly formed commercial entity.
Prior to this assignment, G Narayanan was serving as the Deputy director at the Liquid Propulsion
Systems Centre (LPSC), an ISRO unit in Thiruvananthapuram. New Space India Ltd was set up as a
Public Sector Undertaking under ISRO, last year to commercially explore the space market. NSIL is set to
manufacture launch vehicles with main focus on Small satellite launch vehicle (SSLV).
7. ‘PehleSafety’ is an Internet safety campaign of which major technological company?
[A] Facebook
[B] Microsoft
[C] Google
[D] Apple
Answer: Google
Google India recently announced a new public outreach campaign on Internet safety named PehleSafety.
The tech-firm launched a campaign to inform its users about online security and safety measures while
accessing the internet. It has also launched powerful tools like the Security Check-up and Password
Check-up, to enhance the security of user data.
8. Gulmarg, where the National winter games event is set to be held, is located in which state/UT?
[A] Uttarakhand
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[B] Arunachal Pradesh

[C] Sikkim
[D] Jammu & Kashmir
Answer: Jammu & Kashmir
Gulmarg is a popular skiing destination and a hill-station town located in the Indian union territory of
Jammu and Kashmir. It is situated in the Pir Panjal Range in the western Himalayas.
The town is set to host the five-day national winter games event under Khelo India, from March 7. As
many as 30 events are scheduled to be organised under five major activities namely snowboarding,
snow skiing, cross country and snow show.
9. Which state government recently launched toll-free helpline numbers for students to resolve their queries
by experts?
[A] Odisha
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] West Bengal
[D] Haryana
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
The state government of Uttar Pradesh has recently launched toll-free helpline numbers for students.
This initiative is aimed at solving queries of students ahead of the Board Examinations.
A senior officer of Uttar Pradesh Madhyamik Shiksha Parishad is designated as Nodal Officer of the
initiative. Several academicians and experts of different subjects will be made available on call, to
resolve the doubts of students.
10. ‘We Think Digital’ is a digital literacy program of which global technological company?
[A] Google
[B] Facebook
[C] Apple
[D] Amazon
Answer: Facebook
We Think Digital is a global digital literacy program of the technology major Facebook. The program was
launched in 2019 with an aim to overcome gender imbalance on the internet space.
Recently, Facebook launched ‘We Think Digital’ program in Uttar Pradesh, in association with National
Commission for Women (NCW) and Cyber Peace Foundation. The program aims to provide digital
literacy to nearly 1,00,000 women across seven Indian states.
1. Where is the Headquarters of the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) located?
[A] New York
[B] Geneva
[C] Rome
[D] Nairobi
Answer: Rome
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) is a global financial institution
headquartered in Rome, Italy. It is a specialised agency of the United Nations, to address poverty and
hunger.
The 43rd session of the Council of Governors of the International Fund for Agricultural Development
(IFAD) recently held in Rome, on the theme: Investing in sustainable food systems to end hunger by
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2030. Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keïta presided over the opening ceremony.
2. The School Health and Wellness Ambassador initiative has been launched under which scheme?
[A] Swachh Bharat Mission
[B] Ayushman Bharat
[C] Poshan Abhiyaan
[D] Fit India Movement
Answer: Ayushman Bharat
Union Minister of Health and Union Minister of HRD jointly launched the School Health and Wellness
Ambassador initiative under Ayushman Bharat scheme. Under the initiative, two teachers in every school
will be designated ‘Health and wellness ambassador’ to create awareness about health issues.
The programme will be implemented in 200 districts, initially and will be linked with other government
schemes including Fit India movement, Eat Right campaign, Poshan Abhiyaan.
3. What is the theme of the ‘World Radio Day, 2020’, observed on February 13?
[A] Radio and Diversity
[B] Radio across World
[C] Radio and Multilingualism
[D] Connecting through Air
Answer: Radio and Diversity
The proclamation of UNESCO member states was adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in
2013 to celebrate February 13 as the World Radio Day. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Radio and
Diversity’.
The day celebrated to raise awareness about the importance of radio and access to information. This
year, the day is celebrated across the world, led by UNESCO. It has started a campaign called ‘We are
Radio; We are Diversity’.
4. Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana is the flagship scheme of which Union Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
[B] Ministry of Tribal Affairs
[C] Ministry of Earth Sciences
[D] Ministry of Animal Husbandry, Dairying and Fisheries
Answer: Ministry of Tribal Affairs
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs launched the ‘Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana’ in 2019, through TRIFED. It
aims at creating livelihood for tribal people by using the forest produce. Van Dhan Kendras are set up to
add branding and packaging their products.
Recently, Union Minister for Tribal Affairs Shri Arjun Munda inaugurated the “Workshop on Van Dhan and
Entrepreneurship Development” organized by TRIFED (Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development
Federation of India).
5. What is the capital package recently approved for infusion in three state-owned general insurance
companies?
[A] Rs. 1000 Cr
[B] Rs. 2500 Cr
[C] Rs. 3000 Cr
[D] Rs. 5000 Cr
Answer: Rs. 2500 Cr
The Union Cabinet approved a proposal for capital infusion and immediate release of Rs 2,500 crore to
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three state-owned general insurance companies. The three public sector companies are: United India
Insurance, National Insurance Company and Oriental Insurance Company.
The capital infusion is announced at the backdrop of their critical financial position and breach of
regulatory solvency requirements, stipulated by the insurance regulator IRDAI. The companies are
expected to be merged in this year.
6. The Direct Tax ‘Vivad Se Vishwas’ scheme is to cover pending litigation of which tribunal, as per the
recent approval by the Union Cabinet?
[A] Debt Recovery Tribunal
[B] National Company Law Tribunal
[C] Telecom Disputes Settlement and Appellate Tribunal
[D] Armed Forces Tribunal
Answer: Debt Recovery Tribunal
The Union Cabinet approved the amendment of the Direct Tax Vivad se Vishwas Bill, 2020, so that it also
covers the litigations pending in debt recovery tribunals (DRTs) across the country. The scheme can be
availed in search and seizure procedures, where the recovery is up to ₹5 crore.
Vivad se Vishwas Bill, 2020 is aimed at providing resolution of disputed direct taxes. More than ₹9-lakh
crore of direct taxes is pending in litigation in India.
7. Which product is recently banned in all airports and aircrafts, by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security
(BCAS)?
[A] Alcohol
[B] e-Cigarettes
[C] Drugs
[D] Face masks
Answer: e-Cigarettes
The regulator of Aviation security in India, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) recently notified
that it has banned e-cigarettes and similar products in all airports and aircrafts in India.
It has also prohibited distribution, sale, storage of such products in any airport premises or any aircraft
that departs or arrives in India. Last year, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare banned production,
sale and import of e-cigarettes, as they include electronic nicotine delivery system (ENDS).
8. Who was recently appointed as the new President of the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAI)?
[A] Atul Kumar Gupta

[B] Nihar Niranjan Jambusaria
[C] Prafulla Chhajed
[D] N D Gupta
Answer: Atul Kumar Gupta
Veteran Chartered Accountant Atul Kumar Gupta has been recently appointed as the new President of
the Institute of Chartered Accountants (ICAI) for the year 2020-21. He was previously serving as the Vice
President of the body during 2019-20.
Atul Kumar Gupta has assumed charge after the President Prafulla Chhajed’s place fell vacant. Nihar
Niranjan Jambusaria has been elected as the Vice President of the ICAI for 2020-21.
9. Wendell Rodricks, who passed away recently, was associated with which field?
[A] Cinema
[B] Fashion Designing
[C] Politics
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[D] Business
Answer: Fashion Designing
Renowned Fashion designer Wendell Rodricks recently passed away in Goa. A popular personality in
Designing, he was also called as ‘Guru of Minimalism’. He was known for introducing the ideas of
‘Resort wear’ and ‘Eco-friendly garments’ in the country.
He was also a promoter of Khadi movement and a recipient of India’s fourth-highest civilian award, the
Padma Shri. The iconic designer was also a social activist.
10. Amit Panghal, who was seen in news recently, is a famous personality associated with which sports?
[A] Archery
[B] Boxing
[C] Wrestling
[D] Tennis
Answer: Boxing
Indian ace boxer Amit Panghal was seen in news, as he has been ranked first by the International
Olympic Committee’s (IOC) Boxing Task Force ahead of next month’s Olympic Qualifiers.
With this, Amit became the first Indian boxer to be ranked first, in more than a decade. Before Amit,
Vijender Singh was ranked first in 2009. The IOC Task force will conduct the Olympic qualifiers and the
main event in Tokyo, as the International Boxing association is currently suspended.
1. ‘Apiary on Wheels’ is an initiative of which statutory body of India?
[A] National Commission for Women
[B] National Commission for Minorities
[C] National Green Tribunal
[D] Khadi and Village Industries Commission
Answer: Khadi and Village Industries Commission
‘Apiary on wheels’ means ‘Collection of bees on wheels’. The ‘Apiary on Wheels’ initiative is designed by
the Indian statutory body, ‘Khadi and Village Industries Commission’.
The initiative includes effective migration of Bee boxes with live bee colonies/ collection. It is a platform
by which 20 Bee boxes can be carried from one place to another without any difficulty. The unique
scheme of KVIC was recently inaugurated by the Union Minister of MSME Shri Nitin Gadkari.
2. ‘Pyaar ka Paudha’ (a plant of love), is a campaign of which state, for promoting planting of trees?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Arunachal Pradesh
[C] Sikkim
[D] Bihar
Answer: Bihar
The Department of Environment and Forest of the Bihar state government has launched a campaign to
promote planting of trees in the state.
The campaign was launched ahead of the Valentine’s Day, which asked the people to gift a plant of love
to their closed ones and take care of plants and trees. This initiative is to make the state greener by
creating environmental awareness.
3. Rajiv Bansal has been appointed as chairman and managing director of which Indian airline?
[A] IndiGo
[B] Air India
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[C] Spice Jet

[D] Vistara
Answer: Air India
Veteran bureaucrat Rajiv Bansal was recently appointed as the Chairman and Managing director of Air
India. He has been appointed as the head of the national carrier for a second time.
Rajiv Bansal is a 1988-batch IAS officer of the Nagaland cadre and he is currently serving as the
additional secretary in the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. He will replace the current head of Air
India, Ashwani Lohani.
4. INS Jamuna of Indian Navy is set to conduct hydrographic surveys in which neighbouring country of
India?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] Bangladesh
[C] Myanmar
[D] Nepal
Answer: Sri Lanka
Hydrographic Survey Ship, INS Jamuna of Indian Navy is set to conduct detailed hydrographic surveys in
Sri Lanka for next two months. The ship has arrived in Colombo, Sri Lanka in this regard.
Several shore-based survey activities are also set to be carried out over the deployment period of 2
months. The personnel of Sri Lanka Navy personnel will be provided training during the hydrographic
survey. Harbour training programme for the Sri Lankan sailors is also to be organised.
5. Who was recently appointed as the new Finance Secretary of India?
[A] Rajiv Kumar
[B] Ajay Narayan Jha
[C] Debasish Panda
[D] Krishnamurthy Subramaniam
Answer: Debasish Panda
Debasish Panda, who is currently serving as the Special secretary in the Department of financial
services, Union Finance Ministry has been appointed as the new Finance secretary of the country.
As per the Personnel Ministry order, the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has approved the
appointment of the1987-batch IAS officer as the next Finance secretary, replacing the current Secretary
Rajiv Kumar.
6. Which Indian player was recently named ‘Player of the Year for 2019’, by the International Hockey
Federation (FIH)?
[A] Manpreet Singh
[B] Mandeep Singh
[C] Sreejesh
[D] Harmanpreet Singh
Answer: Manpreet Singh
The captain of Indian men’s team Manpreet Singh was recently named ‘Player of the Year for 2019’, by
the International Hockey Federation (FIH).
Manpreet became the first Indian to win the prestigious award since its introduction in 1999. Manpreet
Singh successfully led India to victories in FIH Series Finals and FIH Olympic Qualifiers in 2019. He has
recently completed 250 international matches for India during the FIH Men’s Hockey Series Finals 2019.
7. Rishi Sunak recently became the first Indian-origin Finance Minister of which country?
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[A] United States

[B] United Kingdom
[C] New Zealand
[D] Japan
Rishi Sunak, the 39-year-old MP from Richmond in Yorkshire has been recently appointed as the Finance
Minister of the United Kingdom. It is the second most important position after the Prime Minister.
He replaces the former finance minister of Britain Sajid Javid, who resigned from his role recently.
Before joining politics, Rishi Sunak was working at Goldman Sachs and was also a co-founder of an
investment firm.
8. Rajinder K Pachauri, who recently passed away, was the founder of which Indian research institute?
[A] The Energy Resources Institute (TERI)
[B] Centre for Science and Environment
[C] Agharkar Research Institute
[D] National Institute of Plant Genome Research
Answer: The Energy Resources Institute (TERI)
Rajinder K Pachauri, who recently passed away, was the founder and chief executive of the New-Delhi
based research institute, the Energy Resources Institute (TERI).
He was elected as Chairman of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) in 2002, which
was established by the World Meteorological Organisation and the United Nations Environment
Programme. He had received the Nobel Peace Prize for the year 2007, on behalf of the IPCC, along with
former U.S. Vice-President Al Gore.
9. As of 2020, which Indian Telecom operator is the second most valuable mobile operator in Asia?
[A] Jio
[B] Bharti Airtel
[C] Vodafone Idea
[D] BSNL
Answer: Bharti Airtel
According to data from Bloomberg, Bharti Airtel has become the second most valuable mobile operator
among emerging markets in Asia. It is only behind China’s operator China Mobile.
Airtel has market capitalisation of around $41 billion, at present. China Mobile is the top mobile operator
in Asia with capitalisation of $175 billion. Airtel also has the 11th largest m-cap in the global market,
which is dominated by AT&T and Verizon Commu¬nications, followed by China Mobile.
10. Lethpora, where a memorial to the CRPF personnel killed in Pulwama attack was inaugurated, is situated
in which state/UT?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Jammu & Kashmir
[C] Punjab
[D] Uttarakhand
Answer: Jammu & Kashmir
A memorial to the 40 CRPF personnel who were killed in Pulwama attack was recently inaugurated at
Lethpora camp, Pulwama. The Forty Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel were killed
by a suicide bomber at Pulwama, last year.
The names of all the 40 CRPF personnel along with their pictures are inscribed in the newly inaugurated
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memorial
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shivendra mishra | shivendramishra2002@gmail.com |
News Headlines: February 16-29, 2020
Current Affairs – News Headlines: February 16, 2020
India
PM chairs meeting of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Society in New Delhi
Kerala govt. launches ‘Yodhavu’ (Warrior) mobile app for public to inform police about drug abuse
and distribution
Haryana: Ambala city bus stand renamed after late external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj
Maharashtra: Government Medical College in Latur to be named after former CM and Congress leader
late Vilasrao Deshmukh
Economy & Corporate
RBI board recommends aligning central bank’s accounting year (July-June) with the financial year
(April-March) from 2020-21
CREDAI launches ‘Credai Awaas’ app to connect homebuyers with its member developers to purchase
properties
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CREDAI: Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India

World
US imposes sanctions on Sri Lankan Army Chief Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva for human rights
violation during civil war in 2009
Sports
77th Senior National Squash Championship in Chennai: Joshna Chinappa (women’s) and Saurav
Ghosal (men’s) win titles respectively
Bhawna Jat qualifies for Tokyo Olympics in women’s 20 km race walk after win at National Race Walk
Championships in Ranchi
Sweden’s Armand Duplantis improves his own men’s pole vault world record at 6.18 m in Glasgow
India win bronze in men’s event at the Asia Team Championships in Manila (Philippines)
PM In Varanasi
Inaugurates a 63-feet tall statue of former Bhartiya Jana Sangh leader Pt Deendayal Upadhyaya
Inaugurates the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Memorial Centre
Flags off IRCTC’s Mahakal Express that will connect the three Jyotirling pilgrim centres of Varanasi
(Kashi Vishwanath), Ujjain (Mahakaleshwar) and Omkareshwar
Inaugurates a 430-bed super speciality government hospital and a 74-bed psychiatry hospital at
Banaras Hindu University
Inaugurates ‘Kashi Ek Roop Anek’, a cultural arts and handicrafts exhibition, at the Pandit Deendayal
Upadhyay Hastkala Sankul
Attends centenary celebrations of Shri Jagadguru Vishwaradhya Gurukul
India
India-Bangladesh conduct joint military exercise SAMPRITI-IX at Umroi, Meghalaya on February
3¬–16
Filmfare Awards: ‘Gully Boy’ wins Best Film, Best Director: Zoya Akhtar, Best Male Actor: Ranveer
Singh and Best Female Actor: Alia Bhatt awards
Punjab Police launch ‘Appreciate and Commend’ scheme to honour diligent police officers
Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar meets his Norwegian counterpart Sveinung Rotevan
in Gandhinagar
Centennial Summit 2020 of Rotary India held in Kolkata on February 14-16

Economy & Corporate
BioAsia 2020, Asia’s largest biotechnology and life sciences forum, being held in Hyderabad on
February 17-19; theme: ‘Today for Tomorrow’
Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal inaugurates India Pavilion at
GulFood 2020 in Dubai (UAE)
Sports
Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei creates new world record in men’s 5km in 12 min, 51 sec at Monaco
$1,62,000 Bengaluru Open ATP Tennis Challenger tennis: Ramkumar Ramanathan & Purav Raja win
men’s doubles title; Australia’s James Duckworth wins men’s singles title
CMS COP 13
PM inaugurates Conference of Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of
Wild Animals (CMS COP 13) at Gandhinagar
India will chair the presidency of (CMS COP 13) for three years starting February 17
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Secretary-General of Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, Martha Rojas Urrego visits India for (CMS COP
13)
Mascot of CMS COP 13: ‘GIBI – The Great’ is based on the Great Indian Bustard
Theme of CMS COP 13: ‘Migratory species connect the planet and we welcome them home’.
India
SC orders govt to grant permanent commission and command postings to women Army officers
President visits Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu; inaugurates Jampore Sea Front Road and
Ayushman Bharat Wellness Centre in Daman
Election Commission awarded ‘Silver’ award for Excellence in Government Process re-engineering for
digital transformation from DARPG (Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances)
CEC Sunil Arora names EC Sushil Chandra as his nominee for the proposed Delimitation Commission
for J&K
Bird ringing station to come up in Bihar for observation, monitoring and research on migratory birds
Haryana govt announces Rs 6 crore to those winning gold medals at Olympics
Pakistan issues visas to Hindu pilgrims to visit Shree Katas Raj temples in Punjab province’s Chakwal
district
Delhi Police, Uber launch Himmat Plus app for safety of people travelling in cabs
Economy & Corporate
4th National Conference on Review of Implementation of PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana)
held in Udaipur on February 17-18
RBI gets Rs 1.94 lakh cr bids for maiden Rs 25,000 crore LTROs (long-term reverse repo operation)
World Bank to give $450 million loan for Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABHY) – National Groundwater
Management Improvement Programme
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on February 17, 2020 reviewed the performance of four Defence
Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) engaged in shipbuilding – Kolkata-based Garden Reach
Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE), Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock
Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and Visakhapatnam-based Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL)
Fifteenth Finance Commission sets up High-Level Expert Group on Agriculture Exports with Sanjiv
Puri (Chairman and Managing Director, ITC) as its Chairman
CBIC (Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs) starts capturing district-wise data or origin of
export goods
IRFC (Indian Railway Finance Corporation) lists USD 1 bn medium-term notes on BSE-owned India
International Exchange (India INX)
Moody’s Investors Service cuts India’s growth forecast to 5.4% for 2020 from 6.6% earlier in its
update on Global Macro Outlook
India’s economy was fifth largest in the world in 2019 with a GDP of $ 2.94 trillion: World Population
Review (US)
Suzuki Motorcycle India launches BS-VI compliant 125cc Burgman Street scooter priced at Rs 77,900
World
“3rd High Level Global Conference on Road Safety for Achieving Global Goals 2030” being held in
Stockholm on February 19-20; Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways and MSMEs Nitin
Gadkari representing India
Storm Dennis wreaks havoc across UK, parts of France
UAE issues reactor licence for Barakah nuclear power plant, the first in Arab world
Sports
India’s Koneru Humpy wins Cairns Cup chess tournament in US
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“United by Emotion” unveiled as the motto of 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games
Northern Ireland’s Henry Gregg, Best Goalkeeper at FIFA World Cup in Sweden in 1958, dies aged 87
South African rugby legend Bryan Habana inducted into Laureus World Sports Academy
India
Kolkata-based GRSE (Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd) delivers anti-submarine warfare
stealth corvette INS Kavaratti to the Indian Navy
India-Norway Task Force on Blue Economy for Sustainable Development inaugurated
Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with CII participating at the ‘70th Berlin
International Film Festival’: February 20 to March 1
There has been a decline in population of 79% of Indian species of birds: State of India’s Birds Report
2020.
Centre renames the ‘Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses’ (IDSA) after late Defence Minister
Manohar Parrikar
Foundation stone for a 50-metre high lighthouse at Dhanushkodi (Tamil Nadu) laid by Union MoS for
Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya
AP CM Jagan Mohan Reddy February launches Nadu Nedu (meaning ‘then and now’ in Telugu)
scheme to improve quality standards in government hospitals
Veteran Kannada actor Kishori Ballal dies at age of 82 in Bengaluru
AICTE bars universities from offering PGDM and MBA courses simultaneously
Economy & Corporate
Total foodgrain production is pegged at a record 291.95 million tonne for 2019-20 crop year, higher
than 285.21 million tonnes in 2018-19: Agriculture Ministry
Soil Health Card Day to be observed on February 19; Soil Health Card Scheme was launched by PM on
February 19, 2015
Shree Cement will replace Yes Bank in the benchmark index Nifty 50 from March 27
Supratim Bandyopadhyay appointed Chairman of PFRDA (Pension Fund Regulatory and Development
Authority)
Bain and Co. and Google release report ‘Women Entrepreneurship in India—Powering the economy
with her’
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India starts delivery of its scooter Forza 300

World
Afghanistan’s election commission declares Ashraf Ghani re-elected President in September 28, 2019
poll
Pakistan conducts flight test of air launched nuclear-capable cruise missile Ra’ad-II with a range of
600 km
Australia appoints Barry O’Farrell as the next high commissioner to India
Sports
Asian Wrestling Championships in New Delhi: India’s Sunil Kumar wins gold in 87kg Greco-Roman
Badminton Asia Team Championships in Manila (Philippines): South Korea win men’s event; Japan
win women’s event
48 sportspersons selected for Maharashtra government’s Shiv Chhatrapati Award for 2018-19
2020 Laureus Sports Awards
British F1 driver Lewis Hamilton and Argentinean footballer Lionel Messi were joint winners World
Sportsman of the year award
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American gymnast Simone Biles won the World Sportswoman of the year award
Snowboarding player Chloe Kim (US) won the World Action Sportsperson of the year award
Oksana Masters (US) won the Sportsperson of the year award with a Disability
South Bronx United (SBU), a football programme based in New York, won Sport for Good Award
South Africa’s Rugby team won Laureus World Team of the Year Award
Germany’s F3 driver Sophia Florsch won the World Comeback of the Year award
Colombian cyclist Egan Bernal won the World Breakthrough of the Year award
German basketball great Dirk Nowitzki won the Lifetime Achievement Award
Spanish Basketball Federation got the Exceptional Achievement Award
India
Sanjay Kothari, Secretary to the President, selected as the new Central Vigilance Commissioner
Information Commissioner Bimal Julka selected as the new Chief Information Commissioner in the
Central Information Commission
Phase II of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) approved; focus will be on ODF Plus (Open
Defecation Free Plus), which includes ODF sustainability and SLWM (Solid and Liquid Waste
Management)
Cabinet approves Constitution of 22nd Law Commission of India for a term of three years
Govt, to set up 12-Member Technology Group with the Principal Scientific Adviser to Government of
India as its Chair
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra Trust: Mahant Nritya Gopal Das elected president; Champat Rai
general secretary, Nripendra Misra (ex-bureaucrat) will be head of temple construction committee
elevates Gujarat-based BISAG (Bhaskaracharya Institute of Space Applications and Geoinformatics)
to a national institute under MEITY (Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology)
The railways to run a special tourist train — Shri Ramayana Express – from New Delhi from March 28:
IRCTC
SC directs Rajasthan government to stop rampant illegal sand mining in the state
Tamil Nadu govt. to celebrate former CM J. Jayalalithaa’s birth anniversary on February 24 as ‘State
Women Children Protection Day’
Tamil Nadu govt. to provide 50% subsidy for ‘Ulemas’ to buy new two-wheelers; doubles their pension
to Rs 3,000
Kamal Kishore, Krishna Vatsa, Rajendra Singh, Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain appointed new
members of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), for a 5-year term
Economy & Corporate
Cabinet approves revamping of PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana) and RWBCIS
(Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme) for better implementation of crop insurance
schemes
Soil Health Card Day celebrated on February 19; Govt to launch Tilhan Mission to boost oilseed
production
CCEA approves upward revision of interest subvention from “upto 2%” to “upto 2.5% p.a.” under the
scheme Dairy processing and Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF)
to set up 10,000 new farmer produce organisations (FPOs) by 2024 with budgetary support of Rs
4,500 crore
India will stop importing thermal coal from 2023-24: Union Minister of Coal and Mines Pralhad Joshi
Sports
Ashu (men’s 67kg), Aditya Kundu (men’s 72 kg) and Hardeep (men’s 97 kg) win bronze medals for
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India in Greco-Roman at the Asian Wrestling Championships in New Delhi

India selected as host of 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup by the Asian Football Confederation’s
Women’s Committee
India
Statehood Day of Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh celebrated, both got statehood on February 20,
1987
Great Indian Bustard, Asian Elephant and Bengal Florican classified as “endangered migratory
species” by the UN’s Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species
IRCTC-operated Varanasi-Indore Kashi Mahakal Express starts its commercial run; connects
Jyotirlinga Omkareshwar (near Indore in MP), Mahakaleshwar (Ujjain, MP) and Kashi Vishwanath
(Varanasi in UP)
10th edition of Bharatiya Chhatra Sansad (Indian Student Parliament) being organised in New Delhi
on February 20-23
Ideal Legislative Assembly Speaker/Ideal Legislative Council Chairman Award presented to the
Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly P. Ramakrishnan at Bharatiya Chhatra Sansad
Railway Board, University of Birmingham of UK launch Joint Masters programme in Railway Systems
Engineering and Integration at Vadodara-based National Rail Transportation Institute (NRTI)
World Bank releases report “Delivering Road Safety in India” at the ‘Third Global Ministerial
Conference on Road Safety’ in Stockholm
Economy & Corporate
RBI approves appointment of Sunil Gurbaxani as MD & CEO of Dhanlaxmi Bank
Banks Board Bureau recommends G.R. Chinatala as the next Chairman of NABARD (National Bank for
Agriculture and Rural Development)
Biocon CMD Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw named EY Entrepreneur of Year 2019
World
Indian freelance reporter Ahmer Khan named winner of the 2019 Agence France-Presse (AFP) Kate
Webb Prize
Sweden creates two Food Planet Prize prizes, each worth USD 1 million, for solutions to feed billions
of people
Larry Tesler, the computer pioneer who created the cut, copy and paste features, dies at 74
UNESCO celebrating International Mother Language Day on February 21 with theme as ‘Languages
without Borders’; day celebrated as Matribhasha Diwas in India
World Day of Social Justice celebrated by UN on February 20; theme: “Closing the Inequalities Gap to
Achieve Social Justice”
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar opens the India Pavilion at Berlin International Film Festival in
Germany
India will be the Guest of Honour at the International Tourism Fair of Madagascar in June
South Sudan president Salva Kiir, rebel leader Riek Machar agree to form unity government
Sustainability Index
India was ranked 77th while Burundi was first on Sustainability Index that takes into account per
capita carbon emissions and ability of children in a nation to live healthy lives.
Index released by the World Health Organization (WHO), UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and The Lancet
medical journal.
Child Flourishing Index
India was ranked 131st while Norway was first on Child Flourishing Index that measures the best
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chance at survival and well-being for children.

Index released by the World Health Organization (WHO), UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and The Lancet
medical journal.
Sports
Asian Wrestling Championship in New Delhi: Sarita Devi (59kg), Pinki Jangra (55kg), Divya Kakran
(68kg) win gold, Nirmala Devi (50kg) wins silver in women’s freestyle category.
Espn Multi-Sports Awards
Badminton player P. V. Sindhu wins ESPN’s ‘Female Sportsperson of the Year’ award
Shooter Saurabh Chaudhary wins ESPN’s ‘Male Sportsperson of the Year’ award
Women’s sprinter Dutee Chand won the ‘Courage’ award
Women’s chess player Koneru Humpy won the award for the ‘Comeback of the Year’
Wrestler Deepak Punia won ‘Emerging Sportsperson of the Year’ award
Pullela Gopichand claimed the ‘Coach of the Year’ award
Hockey legend Balbir Singh (Senior) won ‘Lifetime Achievement’ award
India
Defence Minister lays foundation stone of new Army Headquarters ‘Thal Sena Bhawan’ at Delhi Cantt.
Country’s first floating jetty inaugurated in Panaji, Goa on the banks of Mandovi river by Union
Minister of State for Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya
Retired IAS officers Bhaskar Khulbe and Amarjeet Sinha appointed as Advisors to PM
Home Minister of Maldives Sheikh Imran Abdulla visits India
IRSDC (Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation) installs squat machine at Anand Vihar
Railway Station in New Delhi; free platform ticket for anyone performing 30 squats in 180 seconds
Economy & Corporate
BRICS CCI (BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry) hold Annual Direct Tax Summit & Awards 2020
in New Delhi; Dharampal Satyapal Limited won the award for Best In-House Direct Tax Team of the
Year
US-India Business Council (USIBC) appoints Vijay Advani as new Chair of its Global Board of Directors
IRCTC’s online chatbot ‘ASKDISHA’ upgraded to converse with Railway customers in Hindi language
Organic Food Festival being organised by centre at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, in New Delhi from
February 21 to 23

World
Global terror financing watchdog FATF (Financial Action Task Force) decides continuation of
Pakistan in the ‘Grey List’
Ireland’s Prime Minister (Taoiseach) Leo Varadkar resigns after his Fine Gael party came third in
general elections
Sports
Army RED Ice Hockey team win 9th National Ice Hockey Championship in New Delhi
India’s women’s medal winners at Asian Wrestling Championship in New Delhi on Feb 21: Sakshi
Malik (65kg, silver), Vinesh Phogat (53kg, bronze), Anshu Malik (57kg bronze) and Gursharan Preet
Kaur (72kg, bronze).
New Zealand’s Ross Taylor becomes first cricketer to play 100 matches in all three formats of the
game — Test, ODI & T20
33-year old spinner Pragyan Ojha retires from cricket; took 113 wickets in 24 Tests between 2009 and
2013
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India
International Judicial Conference 2020 held at the Supreme Court in New Delhi; PM speaks on the
theme ‘Judiciary and the Changing World’
4th edition of ‘The Huddle’ – annual thought conclave of the Hindu – organised in Bengaluru
Book ‘Who is Bharat Mata’, authored by Purushottam Agrawal & Radha Krishna, released
Vice President releases book titled ‘Death -An Inside Story’ at the Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore
Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2020: Best Film: ‘Super 30’, Best Actress: Dia
Mirza for ‘Kaafir’, Hrithik Roshan: Best Actor for ‘Super 30’
SC appointed interlocutors Santosh Hegde, Sadhana Ramachandran and Wajahat Habibullah (former
CIC) continued talks with Anti-CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) protesters at Shaheen Bagh area in
New Delhi
Economy & Corporate
First anniversary of the launch of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme to be
observed on February 24
Under PM-KISAN, an amount of Rs.6000 per year is provided in three 4-monthly instalments of
Rs.2000 to poor farmers
World
Meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors from G20 nations being held in Riyadh on
February 22-23
South Sudan rebel leader Riek Machar sworn in as first vice president in capital Juma
Sports
India’s men’s medal winners at Asian Wrestling Championship in New Delhi on Feb 22: Satywart
Kadian (silver, 97 kg), Gourav Baliyan (silver, 79 kg) and Bajrang Punia (silver, 65 kg)
Alireza Firouzja of Iran wins Prague Chess Festival tournament; Indian Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi
finishes 2nd
Yulimar Rojas of Venezuela sets new indoor women’s triple jump world record of 15.43m in Madrid
Pakistan government to confer honorary citizenship on former West Indian captain Darren Sammy
Former India footballer Ashok Chatterjee dies in Kolkata at the age of 78
1st Khelo India University Games being held in Bhubaneswar from February 22 to March 1
Rajlaxmi Singh Deo elected as the president of the Rowing Federation of India

India
Adline Castelino of Mangalore crowned winner of LIVA Miss Diva Universe 2020 competition in
Mumbai
Economy & Corporate
US surpasses China to become India’s top trading partner with bilateral trade at $87.95 billion in
2018-19
World
Pakistan inaugurates first-ever Afghan transit cargo train service connecting Karachi to Kandahar
Sports
Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh wins Cannes Open chess tournament in France
ITTF World Tour Hungarian Open table tennis in Budapest: India’s Achanta Sharath Kamal and
Gnanasekaran Sathiyan win silver medal in men’s doubles
Tyson Fury of Britain defeats Deontay Wilder of US to win World Boxing Council heavyweight title in
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Las Vegas
Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece wins men’s singles title at Marseille tennis tournament
IDBI Federal Life Insurance New Delhi Marathon: Rashpal Singh (2:23:29) and Jyoti Gawte (2:50:37)
won the men’s and women’s races respectively
NTT ASTC Triathlon Asian Cup in Chennai: Serbia’s Ognjen Stojanovic and Barbara Riveros of Chile
won in men’s and women’s sections respectively
Asian Wrestling Championship in New Delhi: India’s Ravi Dahiya won gold in men’s 57 kg freestyle;
Jitender Kumar won silver medal in men’s 74kg freestyle, bronze medals won by Deepak Punia in
men’s 86kg freestyle, Rahul Aware in men’s 57 kg freestyle.
Trump Visit
PM Modi and US President Donald Trump addressed a gathering of more than one lakh people at the
Sardar Patel Stadium in Motera near Ahmedabad at the Namaste Trump event.
Trump and his family members visited Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad and Taj Mahal at
Agra in Uttar Pradesh.
Vishwakarma Awards
Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ presented Vishwakarma Awards 2019 to the winners
in New Delhi
The awards function was organised by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)
Chatra Vishwakarma Awards (CVA) were given to students and mentors
Institutes were felicitated under the Utkrisht Sansthan Vishwakarma Award (USVA)
India
UP Sunni Central Waqf Board accepts five acres land for mosque in Ayodhya, to form trust to oversee
construction
Union Rural Development Minister Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurates the 4th anniversary celebration
of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission with the theme ‘Aatma Gaon Ki, Suvidha Sheher Ki’
Training course on Vessel Search Technique is being organized by the Indian Coast Guard jointly with
the Australian Border Force began in Chennai from February 24 to 28
AP Govt. launches ‘Jagananna Vasathi Deevena’ scheme of providing financial assistance for the
hostel and mess charges of college students
Tripartite MoU signed between NMCG, Uttarakhand Govt & Indorama Trust for development of Ghats
at Gangotri and Badrinath
International Conference on Banana 2020 organised in Tiruchirappalli (Tamil Nadu) on February 21-24
AAP leader Ram Niwas Goel unanimously re-elected as the Speaker of Delhi Assembly
Economy & Corporate
CCI approves acquisition of 100% of issued and paid-up share capital of NEEPCO (North Eastern
Electric Power Corporation) by NTPC from the govt.
NTPC gets CCI approval to acquire 74.50% of issued and paid-up share capital of THDC India Ltd
from the govt.
Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan meets US Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette
in New Delhi
Future Decoded CEO Summit held in Mumbai; RIL Chairman Mukesh Ambani and Microsoft CEO Satya
Nadella participated
Abhay Kumar Singh appointed CMD of NHPC
Chinese handset maker Realme launches first 5G smartphone models in India
Central Excise Day 2020 observed by CBEC (Central Board of Excise and Customs) on February 24
@upsc_thoughts
World
Malaysia: 94-year old Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad resigns after a bid by his allies to bring
down the government
Togo: President Faure Gnassingbe re-elected for a fourth term in power
Sports
New Zealand (348, 9/0) beat India (165, 191) by 10 wickets in the opening Test at the Westpac
Stadium in Wellington on the third day to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series on February 24,
2020.
India to host Commonwealth shooting, archery events at Chandigarh in January 2022; medals to be
counted in Birmingham Commonwealth Games (July 27 to August 7, 2022) tally
Trump Visit
Several deals and MoUs were signed during the India visit of US President Donald Trump
India will buy six AH-64E Apache helicopters from US company Boeing for USD 800 million
India will buy 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters from US company Lockheed Martin for USD 2.6 billion
MoU on the safety of medical products signed between Central Drugs Standard Control Organization
and the US Food and Drug Administration
Letter of Cooperation signed between Indian Oil Corporation Ltd and Exxon Mobil India LNG Ltd and
Chart Industries Inc, US.
India
First ‘National Conference on Coastal Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience (CDRR&R) – 2020’
organised by NIDM (National Institute of Disaster Management) in New Delhi
Chhattisgarh: Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurates newly constructed
building of the Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training and Research Institute in Nava Raipur
Minister of State for Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy inaugurates National Cyber Research, Innovation
& Capacity Centre at CDTI campus in Hyderabad
Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat pays tribute at the National War Memorial in New Delhi on
its first anniversary
Bihar assembly passes unanimous resolution saying there was no need for NRC (National Register for
Citizens) in the state and updating of NPR (National Population Register) should be done according to
the 2010 format
MP becomes 1st first state in the country to launch unified vehicle registration card and 2nd to
launch a unified driving license after UP
MP govt. more than doubles the honorarium paid to Muslim clerics (from Rs 2,200 to Rs 5,000 per
month) and muezzins (from Rs 1,900 to Rs 4,500) in the state
Economy & Corporate
10 lakh smart meters installed across India under Centre’s Smart Meter National Programme (SMNP)
implemented by EESL (Energy Efficiency Services Limited: Minister of State (IC) for Power, New &
Renewable Energy R.K. Singh
Labour Ministry to launch mobile app ‘Santusht’ to address issues of beneficiaries of ESI (Employees
State Insurance) scheme
RBI allows Bandhan Bank to expand its branch network after baring it in September 2018 for not
complying with the licensing conditions that required reduction in promoter stake in the bank from
82% to 40%
TransUnion CIBIL, a credit information company operating in India, appoints Rajesh Kumar as new MD
& CEO
@upsc_thoughts
World
Malaysia: 94-year old Mahathir Mohamad resumes work with a new title of interim prime minister, a
day after resigning
13-day-long Indo-UK joint military exercise — Ajeya Warrior – conclude in Salisbury (UK)
Tibetans celebrating Losar, the New Year of the community, from February 24 to 26
Hosni Mubarak, Egypt’s President from 1981 to 2011, dies aged 91 in Cairo
Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Egypt end postal blockage against Qatar; the 3 nations along with UAE had
severed all diplomatic, trade and transport ties with Qatar in June 2017
World’s oldest man Chitetsu Watanabe dies at the age of 112 in Japan
Indian-American Ajay Banga to step down as President & CEO of MasterCard and become Executive
Chairman from January 1, 2021. Michael Miebach will be the new CEO
Sports
First-ever Khelo India Winter Games inaugurated in the Union Territory of Ladakh at Leh
Surrogacy Bill
Union Cabinet approves major changes to the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2020
Not only close relatives but any woman who is “willing” would be allowed to act as a surrogate
A widow or divorced woman will also have a right to surrogacy apart from infertile Indian couples
India
HRD Ministry launches ‘Higher Education Leadership Development Programme for Administrator’ for
functionaries in Universities
IAF and Britain’s Royal Air Force conducting 5th edition of Ex Indradhanush at Air Force Station
Hindan on February 24-29
Labour Minister Santosh Gangwar lays foundation stone of a 100-bedded ESIC (Employees’ State
Insurance Corporation) hospital at Kakinada (AP)
Jawed Ashraf appointed as the next Ambassador of India to France
to organise a summit on Artificial Intelligence titled RAISE 2020 – ‘Responsible AI for Social
Empowerment 2020’ in New Delhi on April 11-12
Cabinet approves amendments to give occupancy rights to scheduled tribes in Lakshadweep
National Institutes of Food Technology at Kundli (Haryana) and Thanjavur (TN) to be accorded the
status of national importance
Cabinet gives its nod to order on adopting central laws in concurrent list for J&K
Maharashtra International Education Board (MIEB), started by the previous BJP-led government, shut
down by the new Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition of Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena
Economy & Corporate
Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman unveils EASE 3.0, an initiative of
PSBs, that seeks to enhance ease of banking in all customer experiences, using technology.
Food Processing Industries Ministry launches ‘Market Intelligence and Early Warning System (MIEWS)
Web Portal’ to enable ‘real time monitoring’ of prices of tomato, onion and potato
CCEA approves setting up a national technical textiles mission with a total outlay of Rs 1,480 crore
Power PSU NTPC to provide Rs. 80 crore financial support for installation and commissioning of 25
CAAQMS (Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations) across 6 states and 3 UTs
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) launches self-charging hybrid electric MPV Vellfire at Rs 79.5 lakh
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) starts bookings of the new Land Rover Defender priced from Rs 69.99 lakh
World
Sri Lanka announces withdrawal from a UNHRC resolution that called for accountability to human
@upsc_thoughts
rights abuses committed during the nation’s civil war with the Tamil separatists that ended in 2009
Slovenia: Janez Jansa of the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) appointed as new PM
Sports
32-year old Russian women’s tennis player and five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova
retires
India
Delhi High Court judge Justice S. Muralidhar transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court
Myanmar President U Win Myint meets PM Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi
Myanmar, India sign 10 MoUs out of which four are for construction of water supply systems, roads,
schools and solar power systems in Rakhine state
Union Cabinet approves 3 MoUs with Myanmar on ‘combating timber trafficking’, ‘conservation of
tigers & other wildlife’ and ‘in the field of petroleum products and communications’
‘Vajra’ offshore patrol vessel of the Indian Coast Guard commissioned in Chennai; was built by L&T
Shipbuilding
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurates new Light Combat Helicopter Production Hangar at HAL
Complex in Bengaluru
NITI Aayog supported Atal Innovation Mission, NASSCOM launch Artificial Intelligence-based learning
courses for students at Atal Tinkering Labs
UP Govt. to rename ‘Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Urdu, Arabi-Farsi University’ in Lucknow as ‘Khwaja
Moinuddin Chishti Languages University’
Both houses of Mahrashtra Legislature pass resolutions asking the Centre to accord ‘classical
language’ status for Marathi
Mahrashtra Legislature passes bill making teaching of Marathi language compulsory for Class 1-
Class 10 students
Bihar Legislative Assembly passes resolution to conduct a caste-based census in the state
Guruvayur Padmanabhan, popular elephant of Guruvayoor Sreekrishna Temple in Kerala, dies at 80
KPP Samy, DMK MLA from Tiruvottiyur Assembly constituency, dies at 57
Renowned Vedic Scholar Sudhakar Chaturvedi passes away in Bengaluru
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, 3 others appointed by LG Anil Baijal to represent police in cases
related to Delhi violence
US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF)expresses concern over the violence in
New Delhi
PETRONET MHB
ONGC and HPCL acquired the 34.56% stake of 8 PSBs in Petronet MHB Ltd for about Rs 371 crore.
ONGC and HPCL bought 17.28% stake each from the PSBs.
Both ONGC and HPCL had held 32.72% apiece in Petronet MHB
Petronet MHB Ltd owns a petroleum product pipeline in Mangalore
N-LRSI 2020
The National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) releases NCAER Land Records and
Services Index (N-LRSI 2020)
As per N-LRSI 2020, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Tamil Nadu were the
five best-performing states in terms of digitisation of land records and their quality.
Economy & Corporate
India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) achieves milestone of two crore customers, was launched on
September 1, 2018
@upsc_thoughts
World
IAF’s C-17 Globemaster returns from coronavirus-hit Wuhan, China with 112 evacuees, including 36
foreign nationals
119 Indians from coronavirus-hit Diamond Princess Cruise ship (docked off at Yokohama, Japan)
brought back in Air India flight
India
National Science Day celebrated with its theme as ‘Women in Science’; marks the discover of ‘Raman
effect’ by Sir C. V. Raman on February 28, 1928
11 chairs in names of women scientists to be established at institutes across country: WCD Minister
Smriti Irani
24th Meeting of Eastern Zonal Council (EZC) chaired by Home Minister Amit Shah in Bhubaneswar;
attended by CMs of Odisha, West Bengal and Bihar and Finance Minister of Jharkhand
Govt cancels notifications which deferred delimitation in Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal, Manipur
Punjab govt. to reduce retirement age of govt. employees from 60 years to 58, provide free education
for all students up to class 12th
UP: Local Area Development Fund for MLAs increased from Rs 2 crore a year to Rs 3 crore each
Tamil Nadu: S. Kathavarayan (58), DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) MLA from Gudiyatham
constituency, dies
Historian Dr S. Shettar dies in Bengaluru aged 85
Indian Coast Guard’s offshore patrol vessel ICGS Varad commissioned in Chennai
NITI Aayog selects J&K for first pilot project among all States and UTs on Sustainable Developmental
Goals
‘Ayodhya Parv’ being organised at IGNCA (Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts) campus in New
Delhi from February 28 to March 1
Economy & Corporate
India’s foreign exchange reserves rise by $29 million to a fresh lifetime high of $476.122 billion in the
week to February 21
India’s GDP growth in third quarter of 2019-20 (October-December) at 4.7% (7-year low); growth
revised upwards for July-September quarter at 5.1% & 5.6% for April-June quarter
Eight core industries recorded 2.2% growth in January 2020; was 1.5% in January 2019
India’s fiscal deficit touched 128.5% of the whole year budget target at January-end
Rs 9,000 crore IPO of SBI Cards and Payment Services to open for subscription on March 2
Power Minister R. K. Singh dedicates to the nation 11 Renewable Energy Management Centres
(REMCs)
Power Minister R. K. Singh inaugurates Northern Region Renewable Energy Management Centre (NR-
REMC) in New Delhi
Bengaluru to host 19th edition of World Productivity Congress (WPC) on May 6-8, 2020
Sumanth Kathpalia appointed new MD & CEO at IndusInd Bank
World
Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (RDPC) of President Paul Biya wins parliamentary
elections in Cameroon
33 Turkish troops killed in air strikes in Syria’s northwestern Idlib province by forces of President
Bashar al-Assad.
February 16, 2020
ISRO to launch 10 Earth Imaging Satellites in 2020 including first Geo Imaging Satellite-1
@upsc_thoughts
On February 15, 2020, ISRO published its annual report 2019-20. According to the report, the Indian Space
Research Organization will launch 10 Earth Observation Satellites in 2020-21. It includes the first Geo
Imaging Satellite, GISAT-1.
Highlights
The report says that 18 communication satellites, 19 national Earth Observation satellites and eight
navigation satellites are in service. Out of these, 3 of these communication satellites are dedicated for
military communication.
For the year 2019-20, ISRO had planned for 17 missions. Out of these, six are yet to be completed and are
expected to be completed by March 31, 2020.
Annual Plan
According to the report, ISRO has planned 36 missions in the upcoming year. It includes six Earth
Observation satellites. The organization also has plans to add 8 Earth Observation satellites in 2021-22.
The Earth Observation satellites to be launched includes RISAT-2BR2. The RISAT-2BR2 with its fleet of
predecessors RISAT-2B and RISAT-2B1 will be placed 120 degrees apart. RISAT are Radar Imaging Satellites
that provide all weather surveillance using SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radars).
RBI Syncs Financial Year with the Fiscal Year
On February 15, 2020, the board of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) decided to sync the Financial year of the
bank with the Fiscal Year. The Fiscal Year begins in April and ends in March and the Financial year is
between July and June
Highlights
The Central Board of Directors of RBI at the 582nd meeting recommended aligning of Fiscal and financial
years. The alignment would change 8-decade practice of RBI.
Jalan Committee
The alignment was recommended by an expert committee led by Bimal Jalan. According to the committee,
the central bank will be able to provide estimates of the surplus transfers better after the alignment. This
will reduce the interim dividend that the RBI has to pay to the Government. However, the interim dividend
will be restricted to extraordinary circumstances. It will also bring in cohesiveness with the reports and
policy projections made by the RBI.
Why the move?
The Centre had been demanding for an interim dividend (between April to August) as its final balance sheet
is prepared in August. This was mainly because RBI had a different accounting year.

PM Modi inaugurates 50 projects worth 1000 crores in Varanasi
On February 16, 2020, PM Modi inaugurated more than 50 projects that are worth 1000 crores in Varanasi. It
included 430 beds in a hospital at Banaras Hindu University, flagging off of Maha Kaal Express, 100 year
celebration of Jagadguru Vishwaradhya Gurukul and unveiling statue of Deendayal Upadhyay.
Highlights
PM Modi inaugurated Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Memorial Centre in Varanasi. Deendayal Upadhyay was a
former leader of Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the forerunner of the current BJP. In order to honor the leader, PM
also inaugurated a 63 feet tall statue that was made of Pancha Loha
What is Pancha Loha?
Panchaloha is an alloy of Copper, Zincm Gold, Iron and Silver. Some times lead or tin is used instead of
Zinc.
Maha Kaal Express
The Prime Minister also flagged off the Maha Kaal Express. It is the first overnight private train that will
connect three Jyotirling pilgrim centres. They are Ujjain, Varanasi and Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh.
@upsc_thoughts
February 17, 2020

India and Norway to work towards mitigating marine plastic littering
On February 16, 2020, at the CMS COP-13, the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species
Conference of Parties-13, was marked by India. The Convention is to be held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat
between February 17, 2020 and February 22, 2020.
Highlights
On the sidelines of CMS COP-13, India and Norway declared the 2020-30 decade as the “Decade of rapid
action on Climate Change and Environment”. The countries will work together towards strengthening
mutual cooperation on climate and environment including ocean affairs.
The countries decided to work towards mitigating marine plastic pollution. This is to be done on the lines of
Kigali Amendment of Montreal Protocol and MoU signed between India and Norway under India-Norway
Ocean Dialogue (INOD). Under the MoU India-Norway Marine Pollution Initiative was adopted.
Kigali Amendment
In October 2016, the Montreal Protocol was signed by more than 170 countries in order to protect ozone
layer and climate. The Kigali Amendment to the protocol aims to phase down the Hydrofluorocarbons.
BioAsia Summit 2020 to be held in Hyderabad
The Government of Telangana is hosting Bio-Asia Summit 2020 in Hyderabad between February 17, 2020
and February 19, 2020. The main objective of the summit is to explore the capabilities of Life Science
Companies and their investments.
Highlights
The summit will be attended by researchers, investors, conglomerates, start-ups and health care
representatives. They will focus on the needs of the evolving Life Science industry.
The theme of the Summit is
Theme: Today for Tomorrow
Biotechnology in India
India is the third largest biotechnology destination in Asia Pacific. There are more than 523 USFDA (United
States Food and Drug Administration) approved Indian owned plants spread all over the world. This is the
second highest in the world.
Also, India is the largest supplier of BCG, DPT and measles vaccines.
In 2018, the value of biotechnology industry was 51 billion USD. It is currently growing at the rate of 14.7%
every year.
Why is the summit important?
India is to become the most populous country in the world by 2030. The growing burden of diseases in the
country is increasing rapidly. GoI is planning on 200 billion USD infrastructure in the next decade. The
National Biopharma Mission will require strong workforce.
National Biopharma Mission
The National Biopharma mission was launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Science and Technology with the
assistance of World Bank. The mission estimated 250 million USD of investment in the field.
India marks the beginning of “Super Year of Biodiversity” with CMS COP 13
The year 2020 has been nick named as “Super Year” by global advocacy groups including the United
Nations. This has been done to highlight 21 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and their targets.
India marks the “Super Year of Biodiversity” with the Conservation of Migratory Species Conference of
Parties 13. The year includes UN summit in September 2020 and will end in UN Biodiversity Conference in
the end of 2020.
Super Year
@upsc_thoughts
In Super Year, the SDGs of Climate, Ocean, Gender, life below water and land are to be implemented. Several
major initiatives to achieve these SDGs were taken by the United Nations. This year all such initiatives are to
be given special focus. They are as follows
Gender Equality
The Beijing Programme of Action marks 25th anniversary in 2020. It was framed in 1995 at the fourth
United Nation World Conference on Women.
The 64th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women is to be held in March
2020.
Climate Action
The COP 26 is to be held in Glasgow in 2020 to address the gaps that were undermined at COP 25
and also harmed the reputation of COP 25.
The first Global Transport on Sustainable Transport is to be held in May 2020
Life Below Water
The Strategic Plan for Bio Diversity 2011-20 comes to an end in 2020. It was adopted in 2010 at the
convention on Biological Diversity. In 2019, the Inter-governmental Science Policy platform published
the Global Assessment of State of Biodiversity and Ecosystem services. It listed 20 Biodiversity
Targets. They are now to be taken for implementation in 2020 as the plan end in 2020.
The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) is to hold World Conservation Congress in
Marseille, France in June 2020. It is being organized once on 4 years.
2020-A Decade of Closure (Ocean)
Apart from a new beginning, the 2020 will also close bio-diversity related agendas. It includes the
Decade for Deserts which marked the fight against desertification. This was marked by the UN
Convention to Combat Desertification.
The Second UN Ocean Conference is to be held in 2020. The first was held in 2017 in New York. Since
its first conference the community has been working on ocean acidification.
The First United Nations Biodiversity Summit CMS COP-13 in India: 3 Migratory Mammals
Targeted
India is all set to host the fist Biodiversity Summit of the United Nations. It is to be inaugurated by PM Modi
in Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat on February 17, 2020. The CMS COP-13, Convention on the Conservation of
Migratory Species Conference of Parties-13 is the only convention on migratory species.

Highlights
The Agenda of the convention includes proposals on infrastructure of migratory mammals. The migratory
mammals to be focused in the summit includes Gobi bear, Persian Leopard and Urial. The summit will also
provide Biodiversity conservation to Ganges river Dolphins, great Indian Bustard and Asian Elephants.
Gobi Bear
The Gobi Bear is a sub species of Brown Bear. It is found in Gobi-desert of Mongolia. As far 2009, there
were only 30 adult Gobi Bears in the desert. The IUCN Red List categorizes Gobi Bear under Critically
Endangered.
Persian Leopard
The Persian Leopards are found in Iran, Afghanistan and central Asia. The IUCN Red List categorizes them
as Endangered. As of 2008, only 871 mature Persian Leopards were recorded. They are threatened by
poaching and illegal hunting.
Urial
Urials are wild sheep. They are found in western and Central Asia, that is, in Kazakhstan, Pakistan and India.
@upsc_thoughts
The IUCN Red List categorizes them as Vulnerable.

United Nations Bio Diversity Summit to discuss threats to Migratory Species from Infrastructural
Development
PM Modi is to inaugurate the Conference of Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS COP 13)
on February 17, 2020 in GandhiNagar, Gujarat. The 13th conference of Migratory Species is the first meet on
bio diversity. It is conducted under the theme
Theme: Migratory Species connect the planet and together we welcome them home
Highlights
The Conference will consider the need for implementation of guidance tools that will mitigate the impacts
of infrastructure on migratory species. So far, the infrastructural threats to large mammals was governed by
the Central Asian Mammals Initiative. The CMS Guidelines currently deals only with the underwater noises.
It does not include threats related to infrastructural development. Therefore, this conference will focus on
such threats and also aquatic species facing threats due to coastal developments such as roads,
restaurants and hotels. The conference will also discuss Turtle Nesting and the threats.
Significance
The discussion is important because there are more than 25 million kilo metres of new roads to be
constructed by 2050. This will increase by 60% as compared to the roads in 2010. In the next 40 years,
3,35,000 km of railway tracks are to be constructed.
CMS COP 13: Insects Decline to be discussed for the first time
The United Nations Conference of Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS COP-13) is to
discuss the effects of insects decline on migratory species for the first time.
Highlights
According to Convention on Migratory Species, around half of the insect species are declining. Also, the
third phase which is insect extinction is to begin. The IPBES (Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity
and Ecosystem Services) says that at the current rate, 40% of the world insect species will be extinct in next
few decades.
The insects play vital role in the functioning of ecosystems, especially for the insectivorous (the species
that feed on insects) migratory species. It mainly includes bats and birds.
Steps taken
The draft resolution has been presented by the European Union for the discussion at CMS COP 13. This will
help to understand insects die off and its effects on migratory species. The EUROBATS agreement is one

such agreement that focuses on insect decline. However, it focuses on Conservation of Bats Population and
indirectly adopts resolution towards insect conservation to save bats. CMS COP 13 will be the first
convention to focus on insects on a larger scale.
Government of Haryana provides Rs 15 lakhs to Olympic participants and Rs 6 crore to winners
On February 16, 2020, the State Government of Haryana announced that it will provide Rs 6 crores to gold
medal winners at Olympic Games. The cash money prize is only for players representing Haryana.
Highlights
The State Government of Haryana has offered to provide the Olympic players with prize money. It will
provide Rs 15 lakhs to every player participating at the Olympic Games 2020. The Government has also
increased the prize money for players participating at Asian Games and Common Wealth Games.
The Gold Medalists of Asian Games are to be provided with Rs 3 crores. The winners of Common Wealth
Games are to be provided with Rs 1.5 crores.
Above all, the stadium of the players are also to be provided with 10% of the amount received by the players
Pension
@upsc_thoughts
The Government has also announced pension system for the players. This is an additional assistance to
players apart from the cash money. Also, the government will provide pension to national award winners
such as Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Awards, Dhyanchand and Arjuna Awards
Supreme Court permits Permanent Commissioning of Women Officers in Defence
On February 17, 2020, the Supreme Court of India upheld the judgement of Delhi High Court over the issue
of commissioning of women officers in Indian Army.
Highlights
The Supreme Court has granted permission to commission women officers in the Indian Army.
Earlier, permanent service commission for women were not allowed, especially in combat units. They were
pertained to combat support units such as law, education and logistics. Also, women were not appointed at
the level of officers in the combat units.
The judgement was pronounced by Justice D Y Chandrachud.
Background
The High Court of Delhi in 2010 had instructed the GoI to provide permanent commissioning of women
officers in the Indian Army. The GoI in 2010 had argued that women are physiologically weak and are not as
efficient as men when it comes to leading a combat unit. This was countered then and now by both Delhi
HC and the apex court.
Now, SC has upheld this ruling pronouncing that permanent commissioning is allowed to all women officers
irrespective of the years of services.
Chief of Navy Admiral Karambir Singh visits Myanmar
The Chief of Indian Navy Admiral Karamvir Singh is to visit Myanmar between February 17, 2020 and
February 20, 2020. During his visit, he will hold discussions with his Myanmar counterpart to enhance
bilateral maritime relations between the countries
Highlights
The Admiral is to interact with the trainees of the National Defence College in Nay Pyi Taw and will also visit
Training command of Myanmar Navy.
Significance
It is important for India to strengthen its bilateral ties with Myanmar especially in the field of maritime
because of strategic location of the country in Indian Ocean. Also, Myanmar is a member of Indian Ocean
Naval Symposium.

Sittwe Port
India has constructed Sittwe port, a deep water port in Myanmar in 2016. The port along with the Kaladan
Multi Modal Transit Project is considered as an alternate to access North East India. So far, the Siliguri
corridor is the only way through which the Indian mainland is connected with the North East.
Therefore, it is important for India to secure the route to promote trade and transport through the route.
Indian Ocean Naval Symposium
The IONS is a series of biennial meeting among the states of Indian Ocean Region. The symposium acts as
a forum to strengthen maritime security cooperation. It consists of 24 members and they are grouped into 4
sub regions. The South Asian Sub region includes India, Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and
Seychelles. The West Asian Sub region includes Oman, Iran, Saudi Arabia and UAE. The East African Sub
Region includes Kenya, Mauritius, France, South Africa, Mozambique, Eretria, Tanzania. The South East
Asian and Australian Sub Region includes Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Timor Leste, Thailand, Singapore,
Myanmar and Malaysia.
Teams set up by Health Ministry to monitor Corona Virus in villages at Nepal Border
@upsc_thoughts
The Ministry of Health has constituted teams to examine for Corona Virus in villages that are bordering
Nepal. The spread of Corona Virus is increasing with number of people infected in China touching 70,000 as
of February 17, 2020.
Highlights
According to the Ministry of Health, the villages in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Bihar
and West Bengal are to be inspected for Corona Virus. The Ministry has formed 5 separate teams of doctors
from the National Centre for Disease Control.
National Centre for Disease Control
National Centre for Disease Control is an institute operating Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It was
founded in 1963. The origin of the institute is tracked to the Central Malaria Bureau that was established in
1909 in Kasauli, British India. Today there are 14 centres operating under NCDC.
Global Economy
The IMF (International Monetary Fund) says that the virus will have significance effect over the global
economy. However, as the US-China trade war has subsided, the effects of the virus will be nullified by the
boosts of the improved trade between the two might economies of the world.
Ladakh and J&K to come under Central Administrative Tribunal
On February 17, the Minister of State in the PMO (Prime Minister Office) announced that the Union Territory
of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir are to be brought under the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT). The
announcement was made by the Minister at the annual Conference of the tribunal.
Highlights
The CAT has so far had its jurisdiction only over the central services of Jammu and Kashmir. Till the GoI
sets up a CAT exclusively for J&K, the Chandigarh bench is to serve the Union Territory of Jammu and
Kashmir and Ladakh.
What is Central Administrative Tribunal?
The Central Jurisdiction Tribunal was established through 42nd amendment of Constitution. It works
towards adjudicating (judging) disputes that arise in case of recruitment or service of persons in public
services.
The provisions of CAT is not applicable to armed forces, Supreme Court employees, members of
Paramilitary forces and the staffs of Secretariats.
The provisions of CAT are included in Article 323A. Under the article, the GoI has powers to establish
administrative tribunals to solve the disputes.

Atal Bhujal Yojana: GoI and World Bank signed loan agreement of 450 million USD
On February 17, 2020, the World Bank and the Government of India signed a loan agreement to support the
national programme that aims on strengthening ground water institutions and also arrest the depletion of
ground water resources.
Highlights
The project supported by the World Bank called the “National Ground Water Management Improvement
Programme” is to be implemented in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat,
Maharashtra, Karnataka and Haryana. The programme is to cover 78 districts. The districts were selected
based on degree of ground water depletion, degradation and exploitation of groundwater, institutional
readiness in implementing initiatives related to management of groundwater. The states were selected as
they span hard rock aquifers that are present in peninsular India and alluvial aquifers that are found in Indo-
Gangetic Plains.
Key Features of the Programme
The Programme is also called Atal Bhujal Yojana. It is a centrally sponsored scheme. Under the scheme the
@upsc_thoughts
World Bank will provide Rs 6,000 crores for sustainable management of groundwater. The scheme is
implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
US removed “Developing” Tag for India: What are its implications?
Recently, the United States of America removed the “developing” tag for dozens of countries. India is one
amongst them. These countries are to be classified as developed economies
Highlights
The “Developing” status for a country in the US is associated with US Trade Act, 1974. The act authorized
General System of Preferences (GSP). The intention of the system is to help the poor countries develop
faster. The act was later adopted by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and was extended to other rich
countries as well. In WTO, around two-thirds of the countries classify themselves as developing.
Background
Recently US had withdrawn India from its GSP listings. Under this preference there were more than 2,000
items that were of worth 6.3 billion USD. This affects India harshly. Hence, India has been asking the US to
re-include the GSP status. Unfortunately, US has permanently put an end to India’s GSP status by removing
it from the list of developing.
February 18, 2020
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: 4th National Conference held in Udaipur
On February 17, 2020, the fourth National Conference of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima yojana was held in
Udaipur, Rajasthan. The Conference was organized by Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Highlights
The Conference was attended by more than 140 members. It included members from NABARD (National
Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development), RBI (Reserve Bank of India), insurance companies, etc.
Currently, the scheme has three active participants namely the state government, banking sector and the
insurance sector. According to the experts at the conference, for the scheme to achieve success, active
participation of all the three stakeholders is essential.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
The scheme was launched in 2016. It replaced the Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme and
National Agricultural Insurance Scheme. Under the scheme the farmers are paid a premium of 2% for Kharif
crops and 1.5% for Rabi crops in case of crop damages. The scheme is in line with One Nation-One Scheme
theme.

GoI: 5th Meeting of Task Force of Active Pharmaceuticals Ingredients discuss Corona Virus
On February 18, 2020, the Ministry of Shipping and Chemical Fertilizers held the fifth meeting of Task Force.
The Task Force discussed small, medium and large API units.
Highlights
The Ministry discussed on the availability of medicines and drugs to control the impacts of Corona Virus.
The Task Force also discussed and ensured that there shall be no shortage of drugs, medicines and APIs in
India.
What is API?
API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) are ingredients that are biologically active. Every drug is made of
two core components. One is the API and the other is the Excipient. The Excipients are the ingredients that
keep the drug stable for long term.
Currently India is dependent on China in importing APIs. Around Rs 12,255 crores of APIs were imported
from China in the year 2016-17. On the other hand, 80% of the raw materials for these drugs are sourced
from India.
@upsc_thoughts
Significance
Recently the prices of paracetamol, a common analgesic has jumped by 40% in India. The prices of other
antibiotics have also risen by 70%. This is mainly due to the outbreak of Corona Virus. Therefore, it is
important for the GoI to control these scenarios. The task forces assist the GoI in these situations to report
and control them.
India attends 3rd Global Conference on Road Safety held in collaboration with WHO, World Bank
On February 17, 2020, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari represented India at the
3rd global Conference on Road Safety. The Conference aimed at achieving Global Goals 2030. It was held in
Stockholm, Sweden.
Highlights
The conference was held in collaboration with WHO and World Bank. The conference aims at renewing the
commitment of the world community towards road safety. The participated leaders will prepare ways to
achieve UN Decade of Action of reducing road crashes by 2030.
The Decade of Action
The United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety was proclaimed in March 2010 for the decade
2011-20. The plan included 4 pillars as follows
To strengthen institutional Capacity
To improve road safety for pedestrians, motorcyclists and bicyclists.
To widely use crash avoidance technologies such as anti-lock braking system and electronic stability
control.
To encourage and develop adoption of road safety such as seat-belt wearing, helmet wearing,
speeding, drinking and driving, etc.
Need
According to the United Nations, more than 1.3 million people die every year due to road traffic crashes and
more than 20 to 50 million get injured.
What is Adjusted Gross Revenue?
There was a tussle between the Telecommunication industries and the GoI over the license fee settlement.
The Union Budget waived penalty for those who paid their interest charges over the disputed tax liabilities
before March 2020. The case over the license fee settlement was pronounced in favour of the GoI recently.
Following this, several companies like Airtel, Vodafone, TATA have recently paid their dues

What is AGR?
Adjusted Gross Revenue are mainly collected from two main charges namely usage and licensing fee. Apart
from these fees, it also includes other revenues like profits, revenue from assets, etc.
The spectrum usage charges are pegged between 3% and 5%. The licensing fee is 8%.
However, since 2005, the Telecom companies have been registering cases in the apex court for proper
definition of AGR. In 2015, the SC ruled that AGR included dividend, capital receipts, miscellaneous income,
profit from sale of fixed assets, etc.
What was the tussle?
The New Telecom Policy 1999 says that the Telecom operators are required to pay a part of their AGR
(Adjusted Gross Revenue) to the GoI as License Fee. While GoI includes revenue from all the assets and
profits, the Telecoms argue that the charges under AGR should be pertained only to revenue generated from
Telecom services.
Economic Census begins at the National Capital Region
The seventh Economic Census was flagged off at the National Capital by the Ministry of Statistics and
@upsc_thoughts
Programme Implementation. This is the first time the Census is being carried out in Digital Platform. The
Ministry has tied up with Common Service Centres Network (CSCN) for the digital implementation of the
census
Highlights
Delhi is the 26th state where the Census is being launched. It is already in process in 20 states and 5 Union
Territories. At the capital, it will take three months for the census to complete. More than 1.5 lakh trained
volunteers are to visit more than 35 crore establishments to carry out the census.
National Economic Census
The Indian Economic Census is counting the entrepreneurial units involved in agricultural, non-agricultural
or any other economic activity. It provides information about the number of establishments in the country,
number of persons employed, type of ownership, finance, etc. So far, 6 economic censuses have been held.
They were in 1977, 1980, 1990, 1998, 2005, 2013. The seventh Census is the ongoing census that began in
2019.
14,100 tonnes of the rare metal, Lithium Reserves found in India
The researchers at the India’s Atomic Energy Commission have found Lithium Reserves of 14,100 tonnes in
Mandya. Mandya is 100 km away from Bengaluru, Karnataka. Being a very rare metal Lithium is mainly used
in manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles.
Highlights
The reserves found is very little as compared to the world’s leading producers of Lithium. Of the major
producers Chile produces 8.6 million tonnes, Australia produces 2.8 million tonnes and 1.7 million tonnes in
Argentina.
India’s Scenario
Currently, India imports 1.2 billion USD worth lithium batteries (2019). This has increased significantly. In
2017, India imported 384 million USD worth lithium batteries.
Issues
Though India has very little reserves of Lithium and are spread in different places, they can be of significant
use. But these reserves are not yet mapped. These reserves can be of good help to promote the clean-
energy wave in India. GoI is on the path of implementing 1.4 billion USD plan to make India a manufacturing
hub of electric vehicles.
Kala Kumbh: Exhibition to promote GI crafts and Heritage of India held in New Delhi
On February 18, 2020, the Ministry of Textiles organized “Kala Kumbh”. It is an exhibition to promote GI

(Geographical Indication) crafts and heritage of India. These exhibitions are sponsored by the Export
Promotion Council for Handicrafts.
Highlights
The exhibition has been planned in several cities such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata. The
exhibition is being held exclusively for GI tag handicrafts. The GI tag is used on handicrafts that correspond
to specific geographical location. As of August 2019, around 178 handicrafts have been provided with GI
tag all over India.
The exhibition will include GI crafts such as Thrissur screw pine, Molakalmur hand block printing, Kolhapur
chappal, Dharwad Kasauti Embroidery, Anathapur leather puppet, etc. These are all GI tagged handicrafts.
Export Promotion Council
The Export Promotion Council are authorities that assist in promoting and supporting their products in
international market. They are non-profit groups. Every council is responsible for a particular group of
products.
India and Russia Defence Deals to cross 16 billion USD after DefExpo 2020
@upsc_thoughts
India and Russia have signed 14 MoUs during the DefExpo 2020. It included land, air, naval and other hi-tech
civilian products. With the agreements signed the Defence trade between the countries is to cross 16 billion
USD.
Highlights
The trade of 16 billion USD between the countries includes S400 missiles, Kamov helicopters and
Kalashnikov rifles. During the DefExpo 2020, India’s DRDO (Defence Research Development Organization)
signed deals with the Russia’s state run Rosoboron Export on advanced pyrotechnic ignition systems.
India also signed agreements with Russia in order to localize the components used in Kamov Ka-226
helicopters. This is not Technology Transfer. On the other hand, the components used in the helicopter will
be produced in India by Russian firm.
US Role
Despite the pressure from the US through CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions),
India has proceeded to establish strong defence deals with Russia. In fact, Russia was the largest foreign
contributor at DefExpo 2020.
February 19, 2020
Indian Bird Species have declined by 80% says State of India’s Birds Report at CMS COP 13
On February 18, 2020, the State of India’s Birds Report was released at the CMS COP 13. It assessed the
status of more than 867 birds. The report says that more than 80% of Indian bird species have declined in
the last 5 years. More than 15,000 bird watchers participated in the survey.
Highlights
According to the report, the highest decline of birds in India was found in vultures, eagles, warblers and
migrating shore birds. The report says that habitat loss and hunting are the two main reasons behind
decline in bird population. The report is first of its kind.
The report classified 101 species of birds as “High Conservation Concern”.
Stability
The stability in count was found only with house sparrows. Their population have gone up in rural areas. The
Indian peafowl was found in abundance according to the report. Around 48% of bird species in the country
were stable.
Assessment
The report was prepared based on three assessments namely long-term trend, measure of distribution
range and current annual trend.
Long Term Assessment
Out of the 261 species that were assessed on long term basis, 52% of them declined since 2000. Only 43%
showed a long-term trend and were stable. Around 22% of them declined strongly.
Current annual Trend
The current annual trend was assessed over 146 species. Under this category, 80% of the birds declined and
50% declined strongly. Only 6% were stable and 14% were increasing in numbers.
Categories of Concern
The report with the help of IUCN Red List and the three indices classified the birds into three categories.
Around 442 of the birds were put under Low Concern Category, 319 in Modern Concern Category and 101 in
high concern category.
Who prepared the report?
The report was prepared by 10 research and conservation organizations. It included Wildlife Institute of
India, Natural History and Wetlands International South Asia, World Wide Fund for Nature India, Bombay
Natural History Society and Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment.
@upsc_thoughts
February 19: Soil Health Card Day

In order to commemorate the launch of Soil Health Card Scheme, the GoI is marking Soil Health Card Day on
February 19, 2020. The Soil Health Card Scheme was launched by PM Modi on February 19, 2015.
Objectives
The Scheme was launched in 2015 to evaluate soil fertility. It was introduced to issue soil health cards
every two years. The aim of the scheme is to promote soil test in order to promote nutrient management.
Need
The deterioration of physical, chemical and biological health of the soil is considered as one of the main
reasons for decline in agricultural productivity in the country. The soils are currently holding negative
nutrient balance. This is to increase in the future and will decline the fertilizer response of the crop.
Therefore, it is essential to improve the soil health.
Soil Health-Other Measures
Soil Health Management
The Soil Health Management under taken by GoI under the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture
strengthens soil testing laboratories, establishes bio-fertilizers and compost units, demonstrations and
trainings on balanced use of fertilizers.
Nutrient Based Subsidy
The Nutrient based Subsidy scheme promoted fortified and customized fertilizers. Under the scheme so far
21 fertilizers have been included. The scheme aims at balanced use of fertilizers in order to maintain soil
health.
Development of Model Village
In the year 2019-20, the Development of Model Village project was taken up. Under the scheme, the soil
samples were collected from individual farmers rather than collecting from a cluster.
Success of Soil Health Card
In 2017, the National Productivity Council said that the Soil Health Card Scheme promoted sustainable
farming. This led to decrease in use of fertilizer application by 8 to 10%. Also, the overall yield of crops
increased by 5%. This major improvement was mainly due to application of fertilizers based on
recommendations of soil health cards.
5 years of Soil Health Card
Recently the Soil Health Card Scheme completed 5 years of success. Being launched at Suratgarh,
Rajasthan to improve health of the soil, the card provides information about the nutrient status of the soil to
the farmers.
Since its launch, 110 crore soil cards have been issued.
Task Force Meet: India and Norway to strengthen their BLUE ECONOMY PARTNERSHIP
In January 2019, India and Norway jointly inaugurated a Task Force of Blue Economy for Sustainable
Development. The third meet of the task force was held on February 18, 2020.
They also launched a new collaboration of Integrated Ocean Management and Research at the meet.
Highlights
India and Norway have been strengthening their ties making Indo-Norwegian Ocean Cooperation as a key
pillar in their bilateral relationship. The task force aims at mobilizing stakeholders of India and Norway at
the highest level to ensure progress across ministries and agencies.
Significance
India being the largest democracy plays a major role in sustainable development both globally and
regionally. Also, 15% of Indian population residing in Norway are in the coastal region. Above all, 70% of the
Norwegian Economy depends on maritime industry of the country.
The task force was set up at the India Norway Business Summit.
@upsc_thoughts
India Norway Business Summit

The Summit was held in New Delhi in January 2019 during the visit of Norwegian PM to India. Around 15
MoUs were signed at the summit. It includes sustainable sea food production, smart grids, energy markets,
green shipping, digital solutions, etc. Green shipping is use of LNG.
National Institutes renamed after late Union Ministers Sushma, Arun Jaitley and Manohar Parrikar
The Government of India has been renaming the national institutes after late ministers. The leaders passed
away in 2019 due to health issues. They were Manohar Parrikar, Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj.
Objective of renaming
The renaming is being done in order to align the institutes on the lines of the vision of the late leaders.
Manohar Parrikar
Parrikar served as the Minister of Defence between 2014 and 2017. The Institute of Defence and Analyses
(IDSA) has been renamed as Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies. His biggest contribution was
the One Rank One Pension scheme for the armed forces.
IDSA
The IDSA was established in 1965. It was established for policy related studies in all aspects of defence
and security.
Sushma Swaraj
Sushma Swaraj served as the Minister of External Affairs. The Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New Delhi was
renamed as Sushma Swaraj Bhawan and also the Foreign Institute in New Delhi was renamed as Sushma
Swaraj Institute of Foreign Services.
Arun Jaitley
Arun Jaitley served as the finance minister. The National Institute of Financial Management was renamed
as Arun Jaitley National Institute of Financial Management. Also, in September 2019, the Delhi Ferozeshah
Kotla Cricket ground was renamed as Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Foundation Stone for Lighthouse at Dhanushkodi laid
On February 18, 2020, foundation stone for a 50-metre high foundation stone laid at Dhanushkodi in
Rameswaram. This is the fifth lighthouse in the region
Highlights
The light house is to be built at a cost of Rs 8 crore rupees. The lighthouse is to be located opposite to the
old church that was destroyed in a cyclone in 1964. It will facilitate navigation to 33 to 37 km from the sea
shore.

A radar is to be fixed at the top of the light house for surveillance. The light house is to completely operate
with solar energy.
Significance
The lighthouse will help to guide fishermen and will also act as tourist attraction. The Light house is also
important for the naval commands. There are four Naval Commands namely Western Naval Command,
Eastern Naval Command, Southern Naval Command and Andaman and Nicobar Naval Command.
The INS Rajali and INS Agrani Naval Stations in Tamil Nadu operate under Southern Naval Command and
the light house will be of great help for them.
Dhanushkodi
Dhanushkodi is an abandoned town at the southern tip of India. The town was completely destroyed by the
Rameswaram Cyclone in 1964. The town is separated from the mainland by Palk Strait.
Pakistan Test Fires 600 km range Ra’ad II missile successfully
On February 19, 2020, Pakistan test fired 600 km range Ra’ad II missile successfully on land and at sea. The
missile range has been upgraded from 550km in 2017 to 600km. It is important for India to closely monitor
@upsc_thoughts
such advances as New Delhi is roughly 430km from Lahore.

Highlights
The first Ra’ad II missile was unveiled in an annual parade in Pakistan in 2017. Ra’ad I had a range of 35km.
The changes have been made significantly in the tail part of the missile. Ra’ad I had twin tail and was bigger
in size. The recently test fired Ra’ad II had “X” configuration.
So far, the Ra’ad missiles of Pakistan are being carried by Mirage II fighter jets. Indian experts believe that
Ra’ad II is Pakistan’s answer to Nirbhay cruise missile.
Nirbhay Cruise Missile
It is an all-weather missile that was designed and developed in India by DRDO (Defence Research
Development Organization). So far, India has completed six developmental trials of the missile. The next
test is to happen in April 2020.
IISc ranked 16th in Times Higher Education Ranking
On February 18, 2020, the Times Higher Education Ranking was released in London. The ranking was titled
“The Emerging Economies University Ranking 2020”.
Around 11 Indian Universities were included in the top 100. However, China had more Universities than India
in the ranking. Around 30 Universities of China were in the top 100.
Highlights
The Indian Institute of Science was ranked 16th among the top 100 Universities of emerging Economies. The
ranking included 533 Universities from 47 countries all over the world. Out of these, 56 Indian Universities
appeared in the ranking.
Institute of Eminence
The Scheme was launched by GoI in 2017. One of the participating institutes of the scheme Amrita Vishwa
Vidyapeetham entered the top 100 for the first time. It had moved 51 places from its ranking of 141 in 2019.
The Institute of Eminence scheme provides funding from the GoI. They possess greater autonomy.
Prestigious Institutes
The IIT Kharagpur moved up 23 places to 32nd rank, IIT Delhi improved by 28 places and was at 38th rank and
IIT Madras was at 63rd rank climbing 12 places.
India shifts towards clean Diesel and Petrol from April 1
From April 1, 2020, India will shift to Euro-VI emission compliant from Euro-IV grades that is being followed
now. This means that India will shift towards more clean form of fuel.

Highlights
As India shifts to Euro VI grades, it will join select league of nations using pure and clean fuel. These fuels
contain just 10 parts per million of Sulphur. The Sulphur emissions are the main reasons that choke
pollution in major cities.
With Indian Oil Corporations and all other leading refineries already adopting BS-VI petrol and diesel, India is
already on track in implementing clean fuel in the country.
History
India adopted Euro II or equivalent BS III fuel that contains 350 parts per million of Sulphur in 2010. Later, it
took seven years for India to adopt to BS IV that contains 50 ppm of Sulphur. However, it took only three
years to shift to BS VI standard.
Delhi and adjoining cities have already adopted BS VI in April 2019.
Benzene limits was reduced from 5% in 2000 to 1% in 2019. Similarly, the lead content was reduced in
phases since 2000.
Delhi Airport: The First Single-use Plastic-free airport
@upsc_thoughts
The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has become the first airport in India to become free of single-
use plastics. The airport committed itself to become single-use plastics free on the World Environment Day
in 2018.
Highlights
DIAL has used eco-friendly alternatives to reduce the plastic use. The Plastic items that are exempted at the
airport included sealed PET bottles, security tamper-evident bags, pre-packaged materials from
manufacturers and compostable plastic bags.
This is important because it is the leading airport in the country with annual traffic of 68.5 million
passengers per annum.
Significance
The step is being adopted to keep up India’s target of abolishing use of single-use plastics by 2022. This
targets six main types of plastics that are plastic cups, bags, small bottles, plates, pouches and straws. The
Swachh Bharat Mission is deployed in achieving the target.
Need
India produces 26,000 tonnes of plastic trash every day. Much of this trash is dumped in landfills, streets or
spilled in waterways. Around 40% of the plastic used in the world is single-use plastic. Therefore, it is highly
imperative to take serious actions to stop their usage.
After English and Mandarin, Hindi-the third most spoken language in the world
With 615 million speakers all over the world, Hindi is the third most spoken language in the world. English is
at the top with 1,132 million speakers followed by Mandarin with 1,117 million speakers.
Highlights
On February 18, 2020, the Ethnologue published its yearly database on living languages of the world. It
covered more than 7,111 living languages. It also published data on languages that were gone out of usage
in the recent history and that included around 348 languages.
It also said that Bangla is the 7th most spoken language in the world with 228 million native speakers.
Ethnologue
The Ethnologue is an annual publication that provides statistics of the living languages of the world. It is
published by SIL International since 1951. The publication released this year in 2020 is its 22nd release.
The SIL International is a non-profit organization that documents languages. It is mainly into promotion of
literacy and translation of Christian Bible. It was founded in 1933 with the aim of translating bible.

Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill approved by Union Cabinet
On February 18, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) bill.
The bill proposes to establish a national registry.
Highlights
The bill aims at setting up of a national board and as state board to implement a legal framework. The bill
also proposes to establish a central data base of banks and clinics all over the country. It will help in
identifying people that are involved in illegal embryo sale and trafficking.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
The ART is used to treat infertility. The technology works to remove an egg from a woman’s body and
fertilize it with a man’s sperm to make an embryo.
Need
India has become a surrogacy hub for foreign couples. Also, there are unethical practices that need to be
brought under legislation. The 228th report of LCI (Law Commission of India) recommended for suitable
legislation towards the ART practices being followed in the country.
@upsc_thoughts
22nd Law Commission of India approved by the Union Cabinet

On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the 22nd Law Commission of India. The commission has
been approved for a period of three years.
Highlights
The 22nd Law Commission will consist of a full time Chairperson. It has four full time members. Also,
secretaries from Department of Legal Affairs and Legislative department.
Law Commission of India
It is a non-statutory body that is constituted by the GoI from time to time. It was constituted in 1955 for the
first time. Since then it has been reconstituted for every 3 years. So far, the Law Commission of India has
submitted 277 reports.
Benefits
The Law Commission will make recommendations based on the aspects of laws entrusted upon it. It will
undertake research works and suggest reforms that are essential to enact new legislations.
Functions
The functions and objectives of the Law Commission are as follows
To identify laws that shall be repealed immediately
To examine the current laws in force and suggest ways to improve them
To respond to requests made by other countries in framing their legal system
To make measures that shall help to serve the poor legally
To revise laws to simplify them.
February 20, 2020
China moves against Pakistan in FATF, Turkey now the only supporter
China has joined India and United States in putting Pakistan on Grey list of the FATF (Financial Action Task
Force). Both China and Saudi Arabia have joined US, India and other European countries sending stern
messages to Pakistan against its actions of terror funding money laundering
Highlights
A Plenary session of the FATF is to be held in June 2020. China, Saudi Arabia and Turkey were the three
countries that supported Pakistan against FATF move in putting Pakistan under Grey List. Now Turkey and
Malaysia are the only supporters. 12 out of 39 votes are required to move out of FATF list which Pakistan
will not be able to.
Pakistan is currently on Grey List of FATF and with its major supporters withdrawing their backing, Pakistan
will continue to remain on FATF Grey list. Pakistan was put on the list in June 2018. It was given a plan of
action which the country was supposed to complete by October 2019. Failing of which will place it under
black list.
FATF Grey List and Black List
The FATF is a Paris based organization that combats terrorism funding and money laundering.
Grey List
The countries that are not safe and are supporting money laundering and terror funding are included in the
list.
Black List
The countries that is uncooperative tax havens for terror funding. They are also called Non-Cooperative
Countries or Territories (NCCTs).
Countries currently in Black List and Grey List
The lists now have been renamed to “Call for Action” and “Monitored Jurisdiction”. The Call for Action
countries or the Black List Countries include Iran and North Korea.
@upsc_thoughts
The Monitored Jurisdiction or Grey List include Iceland, Ghana, Botswana, Syria, Yemen, Pakistan, Mongolia
and Cambodia.
The above lists are updates as of February 20, 2020.
GoI to launch “TILHAN Mission” to make India Self Reliant in oil seed Production
On February 19, 2020, the Agricultural Minister Narendra Singh Tomar announced that Government of India
is to launch “TILHAN MISSION” to boost the oil seed production. The announcement was made at an
occasion of Soil Health Card Day. Soil Health Card Day was celebrated all over India on February 19, 2020.
Highlights
Government of India is to increase oil seed production in order to make the country self-reliant in oil seed
production.
The Minister also announced that GoI is to create 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations all over the
country. In order to support this, the GoI is to provide Rs 6,000 rupees.
Current Oil Seed Scenario in India
India is the fourth largest vegetable oil economy in the world after USA, China and Brazil. Today, the oil
seeds account for 13% of cropped area in the country.
The National Mission on Oil Seeds and Oil Palm was launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer
Welfare. The scheme was to be implemented for 5 years between 2014-15 and 2018-19.
India-Malaysia
Recently, there has been major rifts between India and Malaysia over Palm oil. Malaysia at the United
Nations General Assembly meet placed open accusations on India for abrogating Article 370 and its other
steps towards development of Kashmir. Malaysian PM accused India of invading and occupying Kashmir.
According to India, Kashmir issue is completely internal and is between India and Pakistan to settle upon.
Following such accusations, India gradually decreased its Palm oil imports from Malaysia. In September
2019, the palm oil imports (before the Malaysian PM’s accusation) were 310,648 tonnes. In October, the
imports were reduced to 219,956 tonnes and in November it was 142,696 tonnes.
India is the largest importer of palm oil in the world. And oil exports are highly important for the Malaysian
economy as it accounts to 2.8% of its GDP and 4.5% of its total exports.
Inference
India having cut its imports from Malaysia, is now on the plan of increasing its domestic oil seed
production.

Cabinet approves Phase II of Swachh Bharat Mission
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved on implementing the phase II of Swachh Bharat Mission.
The phase II of the mission will focus on Open Defecation Free Plus.
Highlights
The budget allocated for phase II of the mission is Rs 52,497 crores. The mission in this phase is to
converge with Jal Jeevan Mission and MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Act).
Apart from the focus maintaining the status of Open Defecation Free, the mission also aims to provide rural
employment. It is to be monitored under 4 key areas namely bio-degradable solid waste management,
plastic waste management, fecal sludge management and greywater management.
Jal Jeevan Mission
The Jal Jeevan Mission was launched in August 2019. The mission aims to provide tap water to all the
households by 2024. It also focuses on desilting minor irrigation tanks and using grey water for agriculture.
Financial Assistance
An incentive of Rs 12,000 is to be provided for the construction of individual household toilet. An additional
@upsc_thoughts
financial assistance of Rs 2 lakhs to 3 lakhs is to be provided for Gram Panchayats to construct Community
managed Sanitary Complexes.
Manipur- the major role player of Act East Policy
India has been focusing on Act East Policy lately with a strong motive of developing the North East. Out of
all the North Eastern States, Manipur has evolved the major supporter of Act East Policy.
Measures
The GoI and the Manipur Government have taken several measures together in order to make the Act East
Policy a big success. The integrated Check Post was inaugurated at Moreh, the Indo-Myanmar border. The
Check post handles 99% of trade between Indian and Myanmar. The trade between the countries increased
by 10% in a decade.
Both India and Myanmar have agreed to open nine borders between the countries. Two Hunar HAats have
been established in the border districts of Manipur. Around 69 bridges have been constructed that helps in
transiting to Myanmar and enhance border trade. Imphal-Mandalay flight services have begun.
Act East Policy
The Act East Policy was launched as the Look East Policy in 1991. Through the North East States India
plans to increase its trade connectivity with ASEAN countries. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit project,
India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway are some of the projects that has taken trade between the
countries to next level.
Cabinet approves to set up a 12-member Technology Group
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to set a technology group. The 12-member group will
provide scientific advice on mapping of technologies, commercialization of dual use technologies and
develop a road map on selected key technologies.
The group will provide three major pillars of support namely Policy support, research and development
proposals and procurement support.
Functions of the group
The group will help the GoI in achieving the following
To render advice on technology procurement strategy
To develop in-house expertise in developing merging technologies
To make sure the public sector technologies developed are sustainable.
Why was the group constituted?
The Group has been constituted as the GoI faced the following challenges

There was no mapping of technologies and their uses spread across the country
The Researches were not aligned to technology development
The dual use of technologies was not commercialized
The standards of technologies were not fixed. This led to sub-optimal industrial development
Silo-centric approaches to the development of technologies are being adopted
The Group will help in addressing these issues.
Union Cabinet approves Revamping of PM Fasal Bima Yojana and RWBCIS schemes to address
challenges
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved revamping of challenges in insurance schemes such as
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme
(RWBCIS).
Highlights
The following changes are to be undertaken in the crop insurance schemes
The time period for an insurance company to work under the scheme is to be extended to 3 years
@upsc_thoughts
The Central subsidy has been limited to 30% for irrigated areas and 25% for irrigated areas
Two step processes are to be adopted for crop loss estimation
Technology solutions such as Smart Sampling Technique and Crop cutting are to be adopted under
insurance
Enrolment of farmers under the scheme has been made voluntary
Benefits
With these steps, farmers will be able to cover and manage risks of agriculture production. It will also
enable farmers of North Eastern Region to manage agricultural risk in a better way. The changes are to
begin from the Kharif Season of 2020.
NITI Aayog organizes North East Sustainable Development Goal Conclave 2020 in Assam
NITI Aayog is to organize North East Sustainable Development Goal Conclave 2020 in Assam between
February 24, 2020 and February 26, 2020. The Conclave is to be held in the state capital Guwahati. Chief
Ministers of all the north eastern states namely Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Manipur,
Meghalaya, Assam, Tripura and Sikkim are to participate in the conclave.
Highlights
The conclave is to focus on SDG localization in the north eastern region. It includes climate adaptive
agriculture, sustainable livelihoods, education, health and nutrition, skill development, connectivity,
entrepreneurship, infrastructure development. Every session is to chaired by respective field specialist.
Significance
NITI Aayog is currently monitoring SDGs at national and sub national levels. It is important to make
progress in the North East Regions at higher level as compared to the rest of the nation. This is the mainly
because of the economy of these states that is still backward as compared to the rest of the country.
Therefore, it is important to implement SDG localization in the North Eastern States to achieve Agenda
2030.
February 20: Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh celebrate their Statehood Day
On February 20, the states of Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram are celebrating their statehood day.
Statehood day marks the day of formation of the states. Arunachal Pradesh became a state on 20th February
1987. And Mizoram that was a part of Assam was formed on 20th February 1987.
Mizoram
Mizoram became a state with the implementation of North-Eastern Reorganization Act, 1972. Mizoram
being a mountainous region was a district of Assam till 1972. It was the 23rd state to be formed in India.
In 1891, the region was annexed by the British. During British rule, the Lushai hills region was under Assam
and the southern half with Bengal. These two regions were united in 1898.
After the Reorganization act, 1972, Mizoram became a Union Territory. Later, in 1986, a historic MoU was
signed between the GoI and the Mizo National Front and Mizoram became a state in 1987.
Arunachal Pradesh
In 1972, the state was called the North-East Frontier Agency. Later in 1975, an elected Legislative Assembly
was constituted. After the Reorganization act, 1972, Arunachal Pradesh remained as a Union Territory. It
became a state in 1987.
GoI sets up Consumer Protection Authority to implement Consumer Protection Act
The Government of India is to set up a Consumer Protection Authority in order to implement the Consumer
Protection Act. The authority is to begin working from April 2020.
Highlights
The Consumer Protection Bill, 2019 was approved the Parliament in 2019 replacing Consumer Protection
Act, 1986. It aims to focus on rapid settlement of consumer disputes, strict penalties for wrong doings that
@upsc_thoughts
include misleading ads by firms and adulteration.

The authority is being constituted to makes sure of the act is implemented in the right way.
Consumer Protection act, 2019
The act apart from working towards effective administration in settling consumer disputed, also brings E-
Commerce under Jurisdiction. It also holds celebrities accountable for promoting wrong products. Under
the act, the celebrities can be fined up to Rs 10 lakhs for their misleading acts.
However, the act does not punish the media through which such misleading content is being promoted.
Strict actions shall be taken only on advertiser according to the act.
India ranks 77 on sustainability index and 131 on Flourishing Index
On February 20, 2020, WHO, Lancet and UNICEF together released a report titled “A Future for the World’s
Children”. According to the report, a new Global index has been included in comparing performance of child
nutrition, education and sustainability.
According to the report, India ranked 131 in flourishing index and 77 on sustainability index.
Highlights
The report says that India has improved in health and sanitation. However, it has to increase its spending on
Health. Around 180 countries were compared in the report. The parameters of comparison included child
survival, child wellbeing, health and education, sustainability, child nutrition.
Key Findings of the report
Because of stunting and poverty, around 250 million children in low- and middle-income countries are at risk
of not reaching their developmental potential.
Best and Least Performers
The children in countries such as Republic of Korea and Netherlands have best chances of survival. On the
other hand, Chad, Niger, Somalia and Mali were the least performers and face very bad odds.
Current Scenario
The report has named USA, Saudi Arabia and Australia as the top 10 highest emitters. Norway, Netherlands
and Republic of Korea emit 210% more than the target set by them towards the per capita target of 2030.
Major Issues
According to the report, the poorest countries have to do more to support their children health and ability.
They have to spend lots towards their children health in order to provide them healthy lives. This
disproportionately is affected by the carbon emissions from rich countries. The issue overall is threatening
lives of all children.

The current scenario is capable of crating devastating health consequences such as malaria, malnutrition
and Dengue. Along with this the threats from heat waves and rising ocean levels are also high.
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) tops in Nature Ranking Index-2020
The CSIR of Delhi topped the National Ranking Index 2020 that ranks the scientific research institutes. CSIR
was followed by IISc Bangalore.
Highlights
The Rankings were provided based on the numbers of research output. It is indicated by total citations in
numbers. It also includes shares, that is the sharing percentage of an article.
The top research works in India in the current scenario includes environmental science, physics, chemistry
and Life Sciences.
Share percentage and scores
The first rank holder CSIR had a share percentage of 87.74 and 142 counts. Followed by CSIR, IISC
Bangalore had a share percentage of 83.61 and 211 count. The third rank was won by the Tata Institute of
Fundamental Research (TIFR) with share percentage of 62.18 and 232 count.
@upsc_thoughts
Top Institutes
The other top institutes included Homi Bhabha National Institute, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, Indian
Association of Cultivation of Science, IIT Guwahati.
GoI Requirements
The GoI is urging scientists to work on topics such as artificial intelligence, 5G, malnutrition, water
conservation, prosperity of farmers, etc. The country is in need of these experts.
World Wide Education for the Future Index: India jumps to rank 35
The Economic Intelligence Unit recently published the Worldwide Education for the Future Index for the year
2019. India has jumped by five ranks and currently holds rank 35.
Highlights
The ranking is provided based on the ability of a country to equip their students in skill-based education.
India ranked 35th with an overall score of 53. The scores were provided based on the performance of the
countries in three countries namely teaching, policy environment and teaching environment. In 2018, India
ranked 40th with an overall score of 41.2.
In Policy Environment, India scored 56.3, in teaching environment its score was 52.2 and in socio-economic
environment India’s score was 50.1.
India has performed better in socio-economic environment. This is because in 2018, its score was 32.2.
However, the performance decreased in policy environment as the score in the area in 2018 was 61.5
Global Rankings
Among the largest economies the countries that fell back in their rankings include US, UK, Russia and
France. On other hand, India, China and Indonesia performer better as compared to the previous year.
Animal Culture linked to its Conservation at CMS COP 13 for the first time
The Convention on the Conservation on Migratory birds Conference of Parties (CMS COP 13) is being held
in Gandhinagar. Proposals were presented to conserve Sperm Whales and Chimpanzees based on their
culture. This is the first time such proposal is being made in the world.
Highlights
It was presented at the conference that some of the animals such as elephants, dolphins and whales
acquire some of their knowledge through social learning. They learn most of their behaviors from adults,
especially the migrating routes.
Findings
The report presented at the conference says that when a species gets vanished from an area, its critical

knowledge will also be lost. For instance, as a result of commercial whaling in the coast of New Zealand,
the whales lost their knowledge of migration route and stopped calving in the region. This was during 1800.
Recently, in 2000, after 200 years, they have started calving in the region again.
This proves that genetic mixing among the species might help in recolonizing their forgotten destinations.
Therefore, it is essential to protect their cultural knowledge for their survival.
In case of Chimpanzees, their nut cracking methodologies are passed on to their next generations.
February 21, 2020
February 21: International Mother Language Day
On February 21, UNESCO is celebrating International Mother Language Day. It is important to celebrate the
day as globalization process has put languages under threat and they are disappearing altogether. When
languages fade away, the cultural diversity of the world fades away as well.
Highlights
Every year, UNESCO has been celebrating International Mother Language Day since 2000. The main purpose
of celebrating the day is to promote multilingualism and cultural diversity. This year the International
@upsc_thoughts
Mother Language Day is celebrated under the theme

Theme: Languages without Borders
Need
Today, more than 6,000 languages are spoken in the world according to UNESCO. However, out of these
43% are estimated to be endangered.
United Nations
In 2007, the United Nations called upon its members to promote, preserve and protect their languages. It
also proclaimed the year 2008 as the “International Year of Languages”.
In India the Day is being celebrated as “Matribhasha Diwas”
Matribhasha Diwas
In India, the day is celebrated under the theme
Theme: Celebrating our Multilingual Heritage
The day is being celebrated to reflect upon “Ek Bharat Shreshth Bharat”.
Asian Elephant, Great Indian Bustard and Bengal Florican classified as “Endangered Migratory
Species” at CMS COP13
On February 20, 2020, Asian Elephant, Indian Bustard and Bengal Florican were declared as “Endangered
Migratory Species” at the CMS COP 13. The proposal was accepted by 130 countries.
Asian Elephant
India declared Indian Elephant as “National Heritage Animal”. This provides highest degree of legal
protection to the animal under Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The Asian elephants are called
Indian Elephants in the country. The threats to the Indian Elephants include habitat loss, human elephant
conflict, habitat fragmentation, illegal trade and poaching.
Bengal Florican
The population of the species has declined greatly due to habitat loss. The Bengal Florican does not breed
outside the protected areas today. It is listed as the critically endangered species under the IUCN list and is
of the topmost conservation priority.
Great Indian Bustard
The Great Indian Bustard is also listed under critically endangered species in IUCN Red List. In order to
protect the species, the Indian Government has declared their habitats as conservation reserves. According
to the Wildlife Institute of India, there are only 150 Great Indian Bustards left in the country.

One Million Dollar Worth Prizes created by Sweden for sustainable Food Solutions
Sweden has created 1 million USD worth prizes to feed billion of people. The prize is named as the “Food
Planet Prize”. The main aim of the step is to address the climate change threats towards food supply all
over the world.
Highlights
The prize is to be awarded annually. Sweden is to offer two Food Planet prizes. They are “an existing
scalable solution for sustainable foods” and the other includes “innovative initiatives to transform global
food sector”.
Need
Today, the world population is 7.8 billion and is expected to grow by 10 billion by 2050. In order to feed
such a huge population, it is essential to transform the eating habits, reduce food waste and also improve
food production.
Today there are more than 820 million people that lack sufficient food. There are many others that consume
low-quality diet. The data was provided by the LANCET publication. Therefore, the prize will encourage
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people to work towards sustainable food production.

President’s Secretary Sanjay Kothari named the next CVC by PM led panel
The appointment of the CVC (Chief Vigilance Commissioner) was criticized throughout India as the new
appointee was a part of the Search Committee. After the wide criticization, President Secretary Sanjay
Kothari has now been recommended by the PM led panel.
Highlights
The Central Vigilance Commission is the premier Government Agency that prevents corruption. It was
established in 1964 as recommended by the Santhanam Committee. It was neither a statutory body nor a
constitutional body. In 2003, the Parliament enacted a law conferring statutory status to the CVC.
The CVC is appointed by the President on recommendation of a three-member committee that consists of
Prime Minister as head. The CVC holds office for four years till they attain the age of 65 years (whichever is
earlier). The CVC is not eligible to be employed under any other Central or State Government Agency after
his or her retirement.
Functions of CVC
The CVC makes investigation over references made by the Central Government. The Central Government
shall make recommendations against an employee under Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. It has powers
to give directions to the CBI under Delhi Special Police Establishment act.
Revision of interest subvention under Diary Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund from
2% to 2.5%
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs recently approved its revision of interest subvention rates from
2% to 2.5% per annum. This is being done under Diary Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund
(DIDF).
Highlights
Under the DIDF, GoI will now provide interest subvention up to 2.5% to NABARD till 2030. This shall enable
NABARD in devising its own strategy of borrowing. In turn, it will be able to provide low cost of funds to milk
unions.
Impacts
There are more than 95 lakh milk producers that will be benefitted with this move. It will help in
establishment of 28,000 milk coolers and create 210 metric tonnes of milk drying capacity.
Implementation
The major activities that are covered under the fund includes chilling infrastructure, electronic adulteration

testing kit, modernization of milk processing facilities and project management.
DIDF scheme
The DIDF Scheme was announced in Union Budget 2017-18 by the Ministry of Finance. Under the scheme
DIDF considerable amount is contributed by NABARD to the National Diary Development Board and National
Cooperative Development Corporation.
RBI launches 5-year Financial Inclusion Strategy
The Reserve Bank of India has launched National Strategy for Financial Inclusion (2019-24). The main
motive of the strategy is to provide access to financial services in an affordable manner.
Highlights
The Strategy has been launched after thorough consultation with SEBI (Securities Exchange Board of India),
PFRDA (Pension fund Regulatory and Development Authority of India) and also Insurance Regulatory and
Development Authority of India (IRDAI). The strategy was launched based on the recommendations of the
Financial Inclusion Advisory Committee that worked in consultation with the above agencies.
Key Recommendations
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The following are the recommendations included in the strategy

The committee has recommended Universal Financial Access. Under this, every village will have
formal financial service provider within a radius of 5 km.
The committee has recommended for the strengthening of Digital Financial Services to reach a less-
cash society by 2022.
Every adult registered under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana should be enrolled in pension scheme
and insurance scheme
The Public Credit Registry shall be made completely operational by March 2022.
Fourth Anniversary of Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission celebrated
The Fourth Anniversary of Shyama Mukherji Rurban Mission is being celebrated all over India on February
21, 2020. It was launched on February 21, 2016. The mission aims at stimulating local economic
development and create well planned Rurban Regions
Highlights
The mission aims to develop 300 Rurban clusters. The Niti Aayog has proposed that these clusters are to be
extended to 1000 in 3 years.
The Mission
The mission aims to preserve the essence of rural community life. It was announced in the Union Budget
2014-15. The Budget allocated Rs 5,142 crores of rupees for the scheme. As 69% of rural population lives in
the rural areas, the mission aims on the availability of amenities to the rural population.
The Plan
The Mission plans to develop Rurban clusters contiguously with the Gram Panchayats with a population of
25,000 to 50,000 in plains and 5,000 to 15,000 in desert and hilly areas.
Around 100 clusters were to developed in the first year. It is a joint venture with the state governments
where the state governments had to identify the clusters. Therefore, the progress of the mission is slow.
Maharashtra Government orders to destroy “Thai Mangur” fish breeding centres
On February 21, 2020, the Maharashtra Government ordered to destroy the Thai Mangur fish breeding
centres. This is mainly because the fish is cultivated in unhygienic conditions.
Highlights
The fish whose breeding is to be stopped in Maharashtra is commonly called Thai Mangur or foreign
Mangur or African Mangur. As they are being cultivated in unhygienic conditions and have enough potential
to make people sick, their breeding centres are being destroyed.

The National Green Tribunal in 2000 banned the cultivation of the Thai Mangur. So far, the State
Government has destroyed 32 tonnes of Thai Mangur
Thai Mangur
The Mangur Fish was banned in India as the fish poses threats to other fishes in an ecosystem. A study in
Mumbai says hat the Mangur fish is responsible for 70% decline in native fish species of the country
Why so Popular?
In spite of several drawbacks, cultivation of Mangur and their sales is popular for its surviving capabilities.
The fish grows 3 feet to 5 feet. They can survive even in mud waters between rains. Other factors such as
omnivorous diet, burrowing capabilities, ability to survive on land and ability to hide in vegetation make the
species easy and economical for farming.
IIT to set up Data Science Centre at Kanjikode campus
The Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad is to set uo a research centre in data science. The centre being
set up at Kanjikode aims at providing a platform of research for artificial intelligence and Data Science
Highlights
@upsc_thoughts
The centre has been named as the Centre for Research and Education in Data Science. The Centre will
collaborate with the Government, industries and other academic institutes
Data Science
It is the field that uses scientific algorithms, processes and methods to extract knowledge from
unstructured and structured data.
The development of data science is highly important for Data Localization
What is Data Localization?
It refers to the rules, laws and regulations that speaks on the collection of data on a Nation’s citizens. It
also includes processing and storing such data.
Indian Laws on Data Localisation
Currently in India the only mandate on Data Localization is that provided by Reserve Bank of India, that too
only for Payment systems. However, there are several draft bills and reports on Data Localization.
First Khelo India University Games to be held in Bhuwaneshwar
The first Khelo India University Games is to be held in Bhuwaneshwar, Odisha. The game is to be launched
by PM Modi through video conferencing.
Highlights
More than 3400 athletes in 17 disciplines and from 159 Universities are to participate in the game. This is
the first of its kind. On the whole, 17 sports are to be conducted. It includes athletics, archery, fencing,
boxing, hudo, weight lifting, swimming, badminton, wrestling, basketball, hockey, football, tennis, table
tennis, rugby, volley ball, Kabaddi.
Khelo India
Khelo India is a National Programme for Development of Sports. The main objective of the initiative is to
inculcate sports culture at Grass-root level. While, the Khelo India University Games are being launched for
the first time in the country, Khelo India School games were launched in 2018 and has been conducted
annually in the month of January-February since then.
The Sport even is organized by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
National Organic Food Festival inaugurated in New Delhi
Ministry of Food Processing and Ministry of Women and Child Development jointly inaugurated the National
Organic Food Festival in New Delhi. The festival aimed at strengthening organic food produce in the
country. It also aimed at encouraging women entrepreneurs in manufacturing organic produce.

Highlights
More than 180 women entrepreneurs and self-help groups exhibited their organic products at the festival. It
was announced at the festival that the organic sector is growing at a speed of 17% per year.
GoI has lately been taking several steps to export organic foods. In order to achieve this, Jaivik Kheti Portal
has been included in the agricultural budget presented by the Finance Minister. Out of the 2.8 lakh crore
allocated for agriculture, a part is to be used for Jaivik Kheti scheme.
Jaivik Kheti
It is a National Project on Organic Farming. Under the scheme, the GoI aims to strengthen organic farming.
It was launched in 2004. It was introduced in 10th five-year plan. Though the scheme initially aimed on usage
of Bio-Fertilizers, later it focused on producing organic foods.
February 24, 2020
International Judicial Conference held in New Delhi
The International Judicial Conference was held in New Delhi recently. The Conference was addressed by PM
Modi. The following theme was introduced at the conference
@upsc_thoughts
Theme: Gender Just World

Highlights
The Conference discussed the changes being introduced by the Government of India to bring Gender
Equality in recruiting women in military services, selection process of fighter pilots. It also discussed on
freedom of women to work in mines at night.
The Conference also focused on the need for technology to deliver rapid justice. The initiative “E-Court
Integrated Mission Mode Project” of GoI, to integrate every court of India with the E-Court system was
highlighted.
The “Just-World” Hypothesis
The “Just World” fallacy is associated with the actions of bringing fair actions towards education, health,
gender equality and other social issues.
The Conference introduced the “Just World” concept in the Judicial System of India. By this it aims to take
the judicial system of the country to every citizen irrespective of their gender. Also, it aimed to bring upon
gender equality in other crucial areas where women have still not earned their recognition, especially the
areas of mining and military.
February 24: PM-Kisan Scheme completes one year
On February 24, 2020, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana completed one year of its
implementation. The scheme was launched to increase the income of farmers. It aims to help farmers by
providing them income support of Rs 6,000 per year.
The scheme was launched by PM Modi on February 24, 2019 at Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. It is being
implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare.
Highlights
The Scheme initially provided income support to small and marginal farmers that hold land up to 2 hectares.
Later, it was extended to all farmers irrespective of the size of their land holdings. Around 14 crore farmers
were to covered under the scheme.
Till now, the Central Government has released Rs 50,850 crores and has benefited 8.46 crores of families.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana
In order to gain the benefits from the scheme, the farmers have to produce citizenship certificate, Aadhaar
card, land holding papers and bank account details. The amount are to be deposited directly in to the
farmers’ accounts under the scheme.

Temperature controlled largest Terminal to store Agro and Pharma Products launched at Mumbai
airport
The Mumbai airport has recently launched the world largest temperature-controlled facility to store agro and
pharma products. The “Export Cold Zone” launched is capable of holding more than 700 tonnes of cargo.
Highlights
The terminal connects 500 cargo destinations spread across 175 countries. The unit is spread over 6,000
square metres. It is spread across 12 truck docks equipped with dock-levellers, automated workstations,
spacious acceptance and examination area, X-Ray machines and Ball mat system for Unit Load Device.
Mumbai Airport is one of the few airports in the world, first in the country and third in Asia to obtain IATA
CEIV PHARMA accreditation.
IATA CEIV PHARMA
It is an accreditation provided by International Air Transport Association. The Centre of Excellence for
Independent Validators in Pharmaceuticals Logistics (CEIV Pharma) was launched by IATA in order to
enhance the supply chain of pharma products all over the world. This accreditation establishes safety,
@upsc_thoughts
security, efficiency and compliance in handling pharmaceutical products.

US to sign peace deal with Taliban forces to end war in Afghanistan
The US President Donald Trump recently announced that the United States of America will sign a peace
agreement with the Taliban forces on February 29, 2020.
Highlights
The US and the Taliban forces are to sign peace agreement to end the war of 18 years in Afghanistan. After
the agreement, 12,000 US troops that are currently deployed in Afghanistan are to return to US.
Taliban
The Talibans are sunni Islamic fundamentalists that are currently waging war in Afghanistan. The Taliban
held power between 1996 and 2001. They emerged a powerful political and military organization in
Afghanistan. Under Taliban rule in Afghanistan, Opium was completely eradicated. But today, 80% of the
world opium originates in Afghanistan. However, the Talibans openly celebrated the 09/11 attacks on the
US.
US-Taliban
The US waged war in Afghanistan after the 9/11 terrorist attack. The war was waged to roll back the control
of Taliban. The US conducted two major operations to contain terrorism of Talibans. They were Operation
Enduring Freedom (2001-14) and Operation Freedom’s Sentinel (2015-present).
ICMR Report says Delhi and Ahmedabad tops in added-fat consumption
The Indian Council of Medical Research conducted study on the food habits of the citizens of the country.
The study said that vegetarians consume more fat than that of non-vegetarians. Also, among the
metropolitan cities of India, Delhi and Ahmedabad topped the list in average consumption of added fat.
Highlights
The survey was conducted by ICMR based on the data provided by the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau.
According to the study, people whose diet relied on deep fried food consumed more added fat than those
who ate boiled food.
The report also said that highest intake of added fat was in the age group of 36 to 59 years and the least
intake was in children under the age of five.
GoI on Nutrition
India is a signatory of the resolution “Transforming our World: 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”.
Achieving Inclusive Growth is one of the main targets of Sustainable Development Goals. Under the target,
India is stepping towards food security with Nutrition playing the major role.

Artificial Intelligence based Chatbot ASKDISHA launched by the Railways
The Indian Railways recently launched Artificial Intelligence based chatbot called “ASKDISHA”. The chatbot
will interact with the Railway customers in Hindi language resolving their queries.
Highlights
The Chatbot was initially launched in 2018 in English. Now, the chatbot has been empowered to converse in
Hindi. The bot handles more than 3.000 inquiries. There are further plans to launch the chatbot in more
languages.
AI in Indian Railways
Indian Railways is the fourth largest in the world. The technology of Artificial Intelligence in Indian Railways
is implemented in the following areas
To Schedule trains
To control speed of the trains
Delay prediction and Reduction. GoI is currently planning to extend this application to inform
passengers about the delay in trains.
@upsc_thoughts
Budget 2020
In the Union Budget 202, Rs 1.61 lakh crores were allocated for Indian Railways. This is 3% higher than the
previous year budget allocation. With this, GoI plans to make the railway stations smarter with faster Wi-Fi
and easy smart digital technology-based ticketing.
Facts Box: Thal Sena Bhawan, the new Army Headquarters
The Defence Minister Rajanth Singh recently laid foundation stone to construct a new Army Headquarters in
Delhi Cantontment. The building has been named “Thal Sena Bhawan”.
Highlights
The building is designed as a rising sun and is spread over 39 acres. The new department that integrates
army, navy and air force is to be placed under Chief of Defence Staff in the new building. The construction
of the building is expected to be completed in 3 to 4 years. Around 1,700 officers and 1,300 sub staffs are
to be accommodated in the building.
The building has adopted GRIHA-5-rating norms.
GRIHA
Griha is Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment. These buildings consume resources from
municipal wastes or indirectly from emissions of electricity generation. It is basically a rating tool. It gives
star rating to the buildings based on their performance in using resources for their design, build, running
and demolition provisions.
February 24: Central Excise Day
Every year, on February 24, the Central Excise Day is being celebrated by Central Board of Excise and
Customs all over India. The day is being celebrated to honour the service of Central Board of Excise and
Custom (CBEC) to the country.
Highlights
The day is also celebrated to honour the officers associated with CBEC and their services. This is done to
encourage the officers to carry out their duties with utmost sincerity. The officers, every year perform
checking of corruption in goods from manufacturing sector.
History
The say is celebrated to commemorate the legislation of Central Excise and Salt act in 24 February, 1944.
CBEC
The CBEC operates under Ministry of Finance. It deals with policy formulation related to collection of
service tax and central excise and duties. It is also responsible for the checking the implementation of

Customs act, 1962, Central Excise Act 1944, Customs Tariff Act 1975 and Service Tax Act.
PM Kisan Mobile App launched to succeed “Doubling Farmer Income by 2022”
The successful completion of one year of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi is being celebrated on
February 24, 2020. In order to commemorate its success, PM Kisan Mobile app was launched by the
Minister of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar.
Highlights
The application helps farmers to learn about their payment status, their eligibility towards a scheme and
several other information. The application will help the government to reach farmers easily. It will also act
as a platform to deliver information about government schemes and other beneficiaries. This overall will
help GoI achieve its goal of “Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022” easily.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi
The small and marginal landholders are eligible to receive Rs 6,000 per year under the scheme. The
following higher economic status of agricultural sector are not eligible
Institutional Land Holders
@upsc_thoughts
Retired pensioners whose pension is more than Rs 10,000

Persons who paid income tax in the last year
Professional persons such as lawyer, doctor, engineer, architect, charted accountants, etc.
NITI Aayog Report: 28% of Aadhaar based payment are going to wrong accounts
The NITI Aayog has released a progress report on National Nutrition Mission (Poshan Abhiyaan). According
to the report, one in three Aadhaar based payments was credited to a wrong bank account, especially in
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana.
Highlights
This is the second report prepared by the think tank. The report was prepared and released by the Ministry
of Women and Child Development. According to the report, 28% of Aadhaar based payments were going to
wrong bank accounts.
The report also says that 66% of direct benefit transfers were based on Aadhaar. Only 60% of the
beneficiaries were aware of the receipt of benefits
Why PMMVY in specific?
Out of all the women and child development schemes, PMMVY is crucial because, Rs 6,000 transferred to
the pregnant and lactating mothers should reach them on time. This is because they are credited as wage
compensation and for their betterment of health.
Ranking of the states
The report also ranked the states based on 4 parameters namely
Strategy and Planning
Governance and Institutional Mechanism
Programme Activities and Intervention Coverage
Service Delivery and Capacities
Out of the 19 large states, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh scored the top three ranks.
They had implementation scores of 70% and above. The least performing larges states were Karnataka,
Assam and Kerala. Among the small states Mizoram and Sikkim scored above 75%.
Among Union Territories Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Chandigarh and Daman and Diu were the best performers
scoring above 75%.
Facts Box: Cheetah Reintroduction Project
Cheetah has become extinct in India for more than 70 years now due to over hunting. Hence, several steps
are being taken for the reintroduction of the cat in the country. It was brought up at CMS-COP 13 as well.

Highlights
On January 28, 2020, the Supreme Court of India cleared way for the reintroduction of Cheetah Project. It is
expected that the National Tiger Conservation Authority will reintroduce the mammal in Kuno-Palpur Wildlife
Sanctuary after conducting an assessment.
Cheetah is the only flagship species to become extinct in India.
The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List has categorized Cheetah as Vulnerable.
Cheetah in India
Cheetah has become extinct in India mainly because of hunting. The last Cheetah was shot in Chhattisgarh
in 1947. In 2000, scientists proposed to clone Asiatic Cheetah from Iran. However, the plan was dropped as
Iran demanded for an Asiatic lion in return. After such several hurdles, Cheetah is being reintroduced in the
country.
February 25, 2020
US President Donald Trump visits India: Signs Defence Deals
On February 24, 2020, the US President Donald Trump visited India. He was accompanied by his wife, the
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first lady, Melania Trump, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner. Along side his visit, India and US
signed defence deals worth 3 billion USD.
Highlights
The President was welcomed by PM Modi in a traditional way at Ahmedabad airport. Mr Trump later visited
Sabarmati Ashram and Taj Mahal. The leaders then addressed a large gathering at Motera stadium. India
celebrated the visit of the US President by naming the event as “Namaste Trump”.
Defence Deal
India and US will sign two defence deals for helicopters. Around 24 MH-60R helicopters are to be signed for
Indian Navy and six AH-64E helicopters are to be signed for Apache helicopters.
India-US
The defence relation between India and US began in 2005. The countries signed a framework to build a
strategic defence cooperation between them. In 2012, the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI)
was launched. The DTTI implements Next Generation Protective Ensembles for Chem-bio protection. In
2015, a strategic vision for Asia Pacific (the now Indo Pacific) and the Indian Ocean Region was signed.
Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad resigns
On February 24, 2020, the Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad resigned over political issues.
Highlights
The 94-year old Mahathir tried to form a coalition. This move would exclude his successor Anwar Ibrahim.
This led to a tussle in the party and eventually the leader resigned. However, he will act as an interim PM.
India and Mahathir
Mr Mahathir was known for his comments on India’s Abrogation of Article 370. At the United Nations
General Assembly that was held in September 2019, he commented that India “invaded, occupied” Kashmir.
Following this, India slowly stopped importing Palm oil from Malaysia. This hit Malaysian Palm oil market
greatly.
Alternately, India is to import Palm oil from Bangladesh.
India-Malaysia
Malaysia is the 19 t h largest investor of India. There are more than 150,000 Indians living in
Malaysia. Following Palm oil, India is to impose curbs over other imports from Malaysia such as micro-
processors, telecom products, aluminium ingots, aluminum wire, etc.
GoI launches “SPICe+” to improve Ease of Doing Business in the country
On February 24, 2020, the Government of India launched SPICe+, a web form that integrates 10 services of
various ministries and departments. This will help boost Ease of Doing Business in India. It was launched by
the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
India ranked 63rd in Ease of Doing Business ranking published by World Bank.
Highlights
The Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus provides 10 services thereby saving
time, cost for starting a business in India. It offers 10 services namely DIN allotment, issue of PAN, TAN,
EPFO. ESIC registration, opening bank account for a company, allotment of GSTIN, issue of Profession Tax,
etc.
The service will help to improve Ease of Doing Business in the country, especially for a startup.
Ease of Doing Business Ranking
In 2019, the World Bank placed India at the 136th rank for Ease of Starting Business. It was provided the
154th and 115th ranks for paying taxes and enforcing contracts respectively. Therefore, it is essential for
initiatives such as SPICe+ to improve India’s position globally.
Minister reviews progress of meeting of Institute of Eminence
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On February 24, 2020, the Union Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal chaired a high-level meeting to review the
progress of Institutes of Eminence.
Highlights
The following decision were taken at the meeting
The Institutes of Eminence shall invite professors and foreign faculties in order to deepen interface
between the institutes in the country and other recognized institutes
The Institute of Eminence are to be given open access to research journals
The institutes shall adopt model villages under Unnat Bharat Scheme.
Unnat Bharat Scheme
Unnat Bharat Scheme was launched to promote development in the rural areas. The scheme aims to
address the increasing inequity in the rural areas due to ecological degradation.
It is important to focus on model villages under the scheme as 70% of the villages live in rural India. Though
majority of the population lives in rural areas, their contribution towards GDP is only 17%. Therefore, it is
important to bring up more such measures to increase their GDP contribution.
February 25: First anniversary of National War Memorial commemorated
On February 25, 2020, the first anniversary of National War Memorial was commemorated. The CDS Bipin
Rawat paid tribute to the memorial and so did several other leaders of the country.
The Memorial was inaugurated by PM Modi on February 25, 2019.
Highlights
The memorial was dedicated by the Prime Minster to honour the fallen heroes of wars. Today, more than
5,000 people visit the monument everyday. The monument was built in 40 acres of land at India Gate, New
Delhi. The monument honours more than 26,000 soldiers.
The Monument holds “Veerta Chakra” that depicts 6 important battles of Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. It
also holds 14 lakh litre water storage tank for rainwater harvesting.
India Gate
India Gate is also a war memorial. It was built in 1931 to commemorate the Martyrs of India who died in
World War I. It bears names of more than 13,516 soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the war.
Human Resources Development Ministry presents Vishwakarma Awards
On February 24, 2020, the Union Minster Ramesh Pokhriyal presented the Vishwakarma awards for the year
2019. Around 23 groups were awarded Chatra Vishwakarma Awards and 6 institutes were awarded with
Utkrisht Santhan Vishwakarma Award.

Highlights
This year the theme of competition of the award is as follows
Theme: How to Enhance the income of a village
Around 2,372 teams submitted their solutions. There were three stages of evaluation and 117 teams were
selected. The teams will exhibit their prototypes at the National Convention and Exhibition.
About Vishwakarma Awards
The awards were instituted by AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) since 2017. They are being
awarded every year for the growth of the society. The Chhatra Vishwakarma awards are Class I awards and
are presented for highly progressive staff. The Utkrisht Sansthan Vishwakarma Awards are Class II awards
that are presented to excellent institutional intervention.
AICTE
The All India Council for Technical Education is an advisory body that gained statutory status in 1987. It
accredits graduate and post graduate programmes. The body is assisted by 10 other statutory boards such
as Technical education, architecture education, vocational education, pharmaceutical education, etc
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GoI: More firearms for Indian Shooters and others should surrender excess guns
On February 24, 2020, the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued notification under the Arms Act, 1959 and
Arms Rules, 2016. The main aim of the notice is to facilitate the shooting practices of Indian Shooters.
Highlights
According to the new rules, the renowned shooters and international medalists shall hold 12 additional
weapons. Earlier the number was seven. Also, if a shooter is renowned in one event, he shall hold 8 and if
he is an expert in more than 2 events, he shall hold 10 and for more than 2 events, he shall hold 12.
Though the motive of the move is to boost shooting sportsmen, the younger shooters and aspiring shooters
are not allowed to hold any of the weapons.
For other civilians, the number of weapons to be possessed has been reduced from three to two.
Issues of Arms (Amendment) Act
As the act was passed, the people of Punjab protested widely. This included businessmen, farmers and
even retired army men. This is because, according to them, 50% of the villagers in Punjab stay in remote
places. They have to protect themselves. Also, the villagers close to Pakistan border were insecure.
Cultural Issues
The step is being opposed by the Rajputs as well. They possess antique guns that are worshipped as family
heirlooms.
Committee submits report on Clause 6 of Assam Accord
On February 25, 2020, a high-level committee submitted its report to the Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda
Sonowal over the implementation of Clause 6 of Assam Accord.
Highlights
The committee was headed by Retd Justice B K Sharma. The report is to be submitted by the CM to the
Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
What is Clause 6 of Assam Accord?
The Clause provides constitutional, administrative and legislative safeguards to preserve and promote
cultural, linguistic and heritage of Assamese people.
Actions taken under Clause 6
Several actions have been taken under Clause 6 to provide administrative, constitutional and legislative
safeguards to the Assamese people. They include
The Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra Society was formed with funds from Ministry of HRD
Jyoti Chitraban film Studio scheme was launched and in phase II, the studio was modernized.

The Archaeological Survey of India took up preservation of 5 monuments namely Singri Temple ruins,
Poa-Mecca, Urvashi Archaeological site, Kedar Temple and Hayagriva Madhava Temple.
What is Assam Accord?
Assam Accord was an agreement signed between the government of India and the leaders of Assam
Movement in 1985. Under the agreement, the GoI agreed to accept all the migrants that entered before 1966
and GoI agreed to provide social, political, cultural and economic rights to the Assamese people.
Five Judges of Supreme Court infected with Swine Flu; Ministry of Health takes immediate
actions
On February 25, 2020, five judges of Supreme Court were infected from Swine Flu. Though the disease
caused by H1N1 virus is seasonal, the Ministry of Health took several preventive measures in order to
prevent further spread of the disease.
Highlights
Under the guidance of Ministry of Health, Prophylactic treatment was given to all the members who came in
contact with the judges. A workshop is to be conducted at the Bar Council of India Office.
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Prophylactic treatment is a preventive measure.

Peak Seasons of H1N1
The Swine Flu is at its peak twice every year. It is between January and March and also between July and
September. Though, the infections are common at this point of time, preventive actions being taken
throughout the complex of the apex court to contain the spread of the virus.
H1N1
H1N1 is an Influenza virus. It was first reported in 2009. The stain of the virus that infects humans are alone
pandemic. The other stains of the virus namely swine influenza infecting pigs and Avian Influenza infecting
birds are endemic.
What is Pandemic, Endemic and Epidemic?
Pandemic is a disease that may spread throughout the world. Endemic is a disease that exists permanently
with in a territory or among a specific population. Epidemic is a disease that attacks many people in the
same time and spreads through several communities.
President Trump visit to India: 2 MoUs and 1 Letter of Cooperation signed
On February 24, 2020, the US President Donald Trump visited India along with his wife Melania Trump. On
the sidelines of his visit, agreements were signed in the field of health, oil and defence.
Highlights
In the Defence Sector, 3 billion USD worth deal was signed to buy helicopters. The Memorandum of
Understandings were signed in the field of oil and health. In the field of health, Central Drugs Standard
Control Organization and the US Food and Drug Administration signed agreements over the safety of
medical products.
Significance of MoU with USFDA
It is essential to be on good equations with the USFDA and also abide by its regulations. This is because,
the pharmaceutical exports to USA require USFDA certification. And US is the top export destination of
Pharmaceuticals for India. In 2018-19, around 5820 million USD worth pharmaceuticals were exported to US
from India.
The signing of this MoU will help the pharmaceuticals increase their exports to US.
Other Agreements
An MoU was also signed between the mental health departments of the countries. The countries also
signed a letter of cooperation in the field of Oil.

What is Happiness Curriculum in Government Schools attended by Melania Trump?
On February 25, 2020, the first lady of the United States Melania Trump attended Happiness Classes at the
Delhi Government Schools. She accompanied President Trump in their visit to India.
Highlights
The Happiness Classes are one of the flagship programmes of the Delhi Government. The programme
launched in 2018 had received commendations from different parts of the world. It focuses on arts-based,
cognition, numeracy and literacy-based teachings. It is completely different from the traditional marks-
oriented teachings.
Objective
The Happiness Curriculum aims to develop citizens who are awakened, aware, mindful, empathetic and
above all firmly rooted to their identity. The programme also aims to mold children to cater the needs of
today’s society.
Output of the Curriculum
The Curriculum develops self-awareness among the students. It inculcates inquiry skills and critical
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thinking. The programme also imbibes effective communication skills in students. It enables them to use
their skills towards problem solving mode during conflicting situations. It also reduces depression, anxiety
and intolerance among students.
Report says Dolphins of Odisha’s Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary has halved
The Forest Department of the Odisha State Government conducted a census at Chilika lake to count the
number of dolphins at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary in Odisha. The Sanctuary is a part of Bhitarkanika
National Park of Odisha. The report was released in February 24, 2020.
Highlights
According to the report, the dolphin count came down to 233 in 2020 from 259 in 2019. At the census, 60
Irawaddy Dolphins and only two bottle nose dolphins were spotted. In 2019, the officials had spotted 14
Irawaddy Dolphins and 14 bottle nose dolphins.
About the Census
The Dolphin Census at the Garimatha Marine Sanctuary was held for the first time in 2015. It was cancelled
in 2016 and 2017 due to bad weather.
Chilika Lake and the dolphins
Chilika lake is a Ramsar Site. This year as the prawn Gherries were dismantled, the dolphins were spread all
over the lake. Dolphins are listed in Schedule I of Indian Wildlife (Protection) act 1972. The IUCN red list
categorizes Dolphins as Endangered.
February 26, 2020
EEESL of GoI completes one successful year in making India Energy Efficient
The EESL (Energy Efficiency Services Limited) recently celebrated its 10 years of successful operation. The
Company adopted the policy of making India Energy Efficiency a year back. It has successfully completed
its one year of energy efficiency policy.
Highlights
In the last one year, the company has installed more than 10 lakh smart meters all over India under the
Smart Meter National Programme. The company has replaced more than 10.6 million street light bulbs with
LED lights. This helped to reduce 20 million tonnes of Carbon-Dioxide. Low cost LED bulbs were distributed
through Unnat Jyoti Programme (UJALA). Today, UJALA is the largest domestic lighting project in the world.
About EESL
EESL is the largest energy service company in the world. Apart from Indian projects, the company has also
taken up transformation in foreign countries such as UK, south Asia, Middle East and South-East Asia.
Way Forward
In the future, the company is to commission 100 MW of decentralized solar power plants.
30 Years Egypt Ruler Mohammed Hosni Mubarak passes away
On February 25, 2020, the Egypt ruler Mohammed Hosni Mubarak died at the age of 91. He was severely ill
in the last months of his life.
He served as the President of Egypt between 1981 and 2011. Initially he served as an air force officer. It is
to be noted that he undertook training in Soviet Union in 1961 at the Kant Air Base near Bishek.
Revolution
Mubarak was ousted from his rule in 2011. He and his sons were detained on allegations of corruption and
abuse of power.
In January 2011, wide protests began in Egypt demanding Mubarak’s resignation. Following the protest, he
resigned in February. The Egyptian Military took over the power after his resignation.
Gulf War
At the Gulf war in 1991, Egyptian forces were the first to enter Saudi Arabia to remove Iraqi forces from
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Kuwait. Under the command of Mohammed, Egypt took active participation at Gulf War.
The Gulf war was led by United States against invasion of Iraq to annex Kuwait. The war was code named
Operation Desert shield.
What is Counter Cyclical Fiscal Policy of GoI?
The Government of India has adopted “Counter Cyclical Fiscal Policy” in order to decrease the Economic
Slow Down in the country. The Economic Chief Advisor Subramanian at the Express Adda event in Mumbai
highlighted that Counter Cyclical Fiscal Policy is the only way forward to create additional fiscal headroom
Highlights
The GoI is in the path of achieving 5 trillion USD economy. According to the Economic Survey 2019-20,
Wealth Creation is the only way to achieve the target. Alongside Wealth Creation, the GoI has planned to
adopt more counter-cyclical Fiscal measures to arrest the economic slowdown.
Counter-Cyclical Fiscal Policy
It is the strategy adopted to counter recession or boom through fiscal measures. During recession, the
Counter cyclical fiscal policy aims at reducing taxes and increasing expenditure. It aims to create demand
in the country to bring an upswing in the country. On the other hand, during boom in an economy, the
counter-cyclical fiscal policy aims at increasing taxes and reducing public expenditure. This is because,
allowing amplification of boom can be disastrous. This is because, it may increase inflation and debt crisis.
Pro Cyclical Fiscal Policy
This was acknowledged by the Economic Survey 2017. It goes in line with the current mode of a business.
For instance, during a boom, Government may increase its expenditure to allow further growth of the boom.
India-US MoU on Mental Health: Indian Traditional Therapies to be exchanged for US Generic
Drugs
During the US President Donald Trump visit to India, the countries signed agreements in the field of energy,
oil, defence and health. India and US signed the agreement on mental health to enable India to treat mental
health issues.
Highlights
The Agreement facilitates greater access of traditional drugs and therapies of India to the US market. In
return, India is to gain access to generic drug market of US. This will help India obtain higher standards of
generic standard compliance.
Need
According to Lancet Report, the mental health disorders have increased from 3% in 1990 to 6% in 2013. This

is expected to be low, as the report says that 80% of the mental disorders in the country are not reported.
It is important for India to boost its mental health treatments. This is because, it is estimated that globally,
1 trillion USD of productivity is lost due to depression and anxiety.
GISAT 1: New Age Satellite to monitor India continuously to be launched on March 5
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is to launch GISAT 1 (Geo-Imaging Satellite) in order to
watch Indian sub-continent continuously.
Highlights
The satellite is to be launched by the ISRO on March 5, 2020. The satellite is to be carried by GSLV-F10
rocket. The satellite weighs 2,275 kg and is to be placed in Geosynchronous orbit.
GISAT
GISAT is Geo-Information Satellite. The satellite is to do a full rotation of the earth and come to the same
point every 2 hours. The satellite is capable of performing rapid surveillance and fast imaging. The ISRO has
designed the satellite in such a way that if needed the satellite can observe a point for a longer duration.
This is the first satellite to be launched by ISRO in 2020. Following GISAT, 10 more satellites are to be
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launched to boost space surveillance power of the country. The satellites will also help in strengthening
border security and control terrorist infiltration.
Indian National Centre for Ocean Information launched new Alert System
The Hyderabad based INCOIS (Indian National Centre for Ocean Information) launched a new alert system
that will help reduce damage and losses to fishermen due to swell surges. The Swell Surges splash strong
waves in the coast damaging boats and nets. The system will help fishermen to get prior alerts about swell
surges and safeguard their boats.
Highlights
The INCOIS, an autonomous body operating under Ministry of Earth Sciences launched the alert system that
will help provide early warnings about Swell Surges. This is to be launched exclusively for coastal
population. The Coastlines of Indian Sub-continent after Tsunami has been experiences damages due to
swell waves that originate in distant Southern Indian Ocean.
The Swell Surges are more common in west coast than the east coast.
What are Swell Surges?
A Swell Surge is caused due to surface gravity. They are surface gravity waves and not wind waves (the
common waves). Wind Waves are generated by the local winds. On the other hand, swell surges are
generated due to distant weather systems.
They take place without any noticeable changes in local winds or coastal environment.
DPIIT notifies 100% Foreign Direct Investment in Insurance Intermediaries
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) operating under Ministry of Commerce
and Trade has amended the FDI (Foreign Direct Policy) to allow 100% foreign investment for insurance
intermediaries. This includes insurance companies, third party administrators, insurance brooking, loss
assessors and surveyors.
Highlights
Initially DPIIT had allowed only 49% of FDI in the insurance sector. This has now been increased to 100% to
increase Ease of doing business in the insurance sector. With this move, the foreign companies shall easily
buy stakes in Indian Insurance Companies.
Background
The 100% FDI in Insurance Sector was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman in the Budget
2020-21. This is essential because, according to UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and
Development) World Investment Report, 2019, India faced third consecutive annual decline in terms of FDI

in 2019.
UNCTAD
UNCTAD is a UN Body that deals with trade and investment. It was established in 1964. It also measures the
Sustainable Development Goal set out by the member countries of the United Nations.
Desert Locust Control High Level Meeting held
On February 25, 2020, the Agriculture Ministry held a high-level meeting on Desert Locust Control. The
meeting was chaired by Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare.
Highlights
The meeting discussed the locust control operations carried on between May 2019 and February 2020. The
report submitted by National Disaster Response Force was discussed at the meet. The report was
submitted by an inter-ministerial team that visited the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat to assess crop
losses.
At the end of the meeting, the officials were directed to conduct training and awareness programmes to
tackle locusts in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana and Punjab.
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Locusts in India
There are 10 important locust species on the earth that cause major damages. Out of these, only 4 are
found in India. They are Desert Locust, Bombay Locust, Migratory Locust and Tree Locust.
Locust are grass hoppers that are capable forming swarms and cause great damage to cultivated
vegetation.
Indra Dhanush Exercise 2020: India-UK joint Air Force Exercise held at Air Force Station Hindon
The 5th edition of the Exercise Indra Dhanush commenced on 24th February, 2020. It is a joint air force
exercise between the Indian Air Force and the Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom.
Highlights
The Exercise focused on “Base Defence and Force Protection”. Around 36 specialized combatants of the
Royal Air Force participated in the exercise. From the Indian side, 42 combatants of Garud Commando
Force participated in the exercise.
The Exercise was held in Hindon Air Force Station
Hindon Air Force Station
The Hindon Air Force Station operates under Western Air Command. It is the eighth largest air base in the
world and the largest air base in Asia. It is located in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
Garud Commando Force
The Garud Commando Force was formed in September 2004. The force is mainly tasked with the protection
of air bases and installations, disaster relief, search and rescue operations during hostilities. They are
currently deployed in Congo to fulfill United Nations Peace keeping operations.
February 27, 2020
National Technical Textiles Mission approved by Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
On February 26, 2020, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the National Technical Textiles
Mission. The mission has been allocated Rs 1,480 crores. The aim of the mission is to make India a global
leader in Technical Textiles.
Highlights
The Mission is to be implemented in India for 4 years, that is, between 2020-21 and 2023-24. There are 4
components of the mission as follows
Research, Innovation and Development
This component has been allocated Rs 1,000 crores. It aims to boost research at fibre level.
Under the component the focus is to be on Aramid Fibre, Carbon Fibre, Composites and Nylon
Fibre.
Promotion and Market Development
The Indian Textiles Market contribute 6% of the global technical textiles. The Indian Technical
Textiles market is estimated to be 16 billion USD and the global market is 250 billion USD.
Under this component, the mission is to work towards taking the Indian Technical Textiles
market to 40 to 50 billion USD by 2024.
The above goal is to be achieved by international technical collaboration, market promotion
and investment promotion.
Export Promotion
Education, Training and Skill Development
Significance
It is important to develop National Technical Textiles Mission because they are used in roads. Agriculture,
sportswear, railway tracks and space applications.
RAISE 2020: An International “Artificial Intelligence” Summit to be organised by GoI
@upsc_thoughts
The Government of India (GoI) is to organize an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit called RAISE 2020. RAISE
stands for Responsible AI for Social Empowerment. The Summit is to be held in New Delhi between April 11
and 12, 2020.
Highlights
The summit will be attended by experts of Artificial Intelligence from all over the world. It will focus on
using AI towards social empowerment, transformation and inclusion and also in other key areas such as
agriculture, healthcare, smart mobility and education.
Significance
It is essential to implement AI in social transformation as it will help in bringing regulatory changes. It will
improve the efficiency of work places, reduce operating costs. With autonomous transportation, AI can help
save large amounts of fuel and time.
Negative Impacts
Though there are several benefits of Artificial Intelligence, the only concern towards the technology is that it
has the potential to minimize the work force in a sector. Especially in a country like India that is second
most populous in the world, it is essential to keep track that AI does not reduce employment opportunities.
The Summit will help understand all these key areas and act accordingly.
Union Cabinet approves changes introduced in Surrogacy (Regulation) bill
On February 26, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the changes introduced to the Surrogacy (Regulation) bill,
2019. The changes were introduced by the 23-member select committee of Rajya Sabha.
Highlights
The changes approved include not only close relatives but “any woman” willing to act as a surrogate mother
shall be allowed. It has also approved deleting the definition of infertility. Earlier infertility in the bill was
defined as inability to conceive after unprotected intercourse for 5 years. The committee believed that it
was too long period for a couple to wait for a child. The Insurance Cover of a surrogate mother is to be
increased from 16 months to 36 months.
Background
The Surrogacy (Regulation) bill was passed in Lok Sabha in 2019. The aim of the bill was to prevent
commercial surrogacy. It also aims to promote altruistic surrogacy that does not demand monetary
compensation apart from medical expenses and insurance.
EASE 3.0 launched by the Finance Minister to enhance Ease of Banking
On February 26, 2020, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman launched Enhanced Access and Service

Excellence (EASE 3.0). It was launched along with the annual report of EASE 2.0 at a function organized by
Indian Banks’ Association.
Highlights
The main aim of EASE 3.0 is to make public sector banking technology enabled and smart. By this the
initiative intends to achieve ease of banking for customers. Along with its launch, the GoI has also warned
about the over reliance of the state-run banks on credit rating agencies while sanctioning loans.
What is EASE?
EASE is set of technology-based banking reforms. It aims at improvising banking sector with technology. It
ensures wider financial inclusion, better banking experience and easier credit distribution.
Significance
The initiative will enhance paperless, digital banking. It will also support other GoI initiatives such as
Udyami Mitra, credit take-off, Dial-a-loan and credit at a click. EASE will increase the reach all these
initiatives and improve the standards of banking sector.
Cabinet Approval: Occupancy rights to Scheduled Tribes of Lakshadweep
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On February 26, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved amendments to provide occupancy rights to Scheduled
Tribes of Lakshadweep. The approval was provided to amend the Laccadive, Minicoy and Amindivi Islands
Land Revenue and Tenancy Regulation, 1965.
Highlights
The Scheduled Tribes in the island did not have occupancy rights so far. The Occupancy right is the right to
occupy and use tribal area.
Background
Lakshadweep is an Archipelago with 12 atolls, five submerged banks and three reefs. There are 17
uninhabited islands in the region. According to Census 2011, there are 64,429 persons in the island. Of this
93% of the population are indigenous and the entire indigenous population in the island has been classified
as Scheduled Tribes due to their social and Economic Backwardness.
According to the SC and ST list (modification order), 1956, the inhabitants born to both parents born in the
islands are alone treated as Scheduled Tribes.
Malayalam is the spoken language in the island.
Market Intelligence and Early Warning Systems to monitor prices of Onion, Tomato and Potato
On February 26, 2020, the Minister of Food Processing Industry launched Market Intelligence and Early
Warning System (MIEWS) Web Portal in New Delhi. The MIEWS is first of its kind.
Highlights
The main function of MIEWS is to monitor prices of onion, tomato and potato (TOP crops). It will also
generate alerts under the terms of Operations Green Scheme. The portal will also provide information
related to prices, yield and production, arrivals, crop agronomy, imports and exports, etc.
Operation Green Scheme
Under Operation Green Scheme, the surplus production from producing areas are taken to consumption
centres. In order to achieve this, the scheme provides guidelines under which the surplus production are
allowed to be taken to markets. They are as follows
If the prices of the vegetables are less than the average market prices of preceding 3 years
If the prices are more than 50% of the previous year market price
IF the prices are less than the bench mark fixed by the State or Central Government.
Largest conference on traditional medicine: AYUSH Terminologies and their Standardisation held
in New Delhi
On February 26, 2020, the largest ever conference on traditional medicine was held in New Delhi. The

ICoSDiTAUS-2020 called the International Conference on Standardisation of Diagnosis and Terminologies of
AYUSH was attended by 16 countries. It included Serbia, Sri Lanka, Curacao, Mauritius, Iran, Japan, Qatar,
Uzbekistan, Bhutan, Switzerland, Myanmar, Cuba, Ghana, Jamaica, Equatorial Guinea and India.
The Conference was organized by the Ministry of AYUSH.
Highlights
The major topic that was discussed at the conference includes “Challenges in Counting and Classification
of Traditional Medicine Encounters”. It also discussed about International Classification of Diseases based
on traditional medicinal systems.
Significance
AYUSH is acronym of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. GoI has been taking
several steps to promote AYUSH. One such step is this conference of standardization. It is important
because, AYUSH helps to find cost effective treatment. For a populous country like India where expenditure
on health sector is just 1.17% of GDP (2019), cost effective treatments like AYUSH have vital role.
VAJRA: The Offshore Patrol Vessel-6 launched at Chennai
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On February 27, 2020, the 6 th Coast Guard OPV-6 (Offshore Patrol Vessel-6) called the “VAJRA” was
launched in Chennai.
Highlights
The OPV will assist Indian Navy in guarding 7,500 km long coast line and 20 lakh square kilo metre of
Exclusive Economic Zone. It will also help to safeguard one lakh merchant ships transiting in the Indian
Ocean from all over the world.
The OPV is to be utilized for patrolling, surveying, anti-smuggling and anti-terrorist operations. The OPV has
two navigational radars installed.
Indian Coast Guard
Indian Coast Guard is an armed force of India. It protects the maritime interests of India and also enforces
maritime law in the territorial waters of India. The Indian Coast Guard operates under Ministry of Defence.
There are 5 Indian Coast Guard Regions in India. They are Western Region (Mumbai), Eastern Region
(Chennai), North-East Region (Kolkata), Andaman and Nicobar Region (Port Blair) and North-West Regions
(Gandhinagar).
Sri Lanka withdraws from UNHRC Resolution
On February 26, 2020, the Sri Lankan Government formally notified the United Nations that it will withdraw
from the UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Council) resolution.
Highlights
The UNHRC resolution 40/1 was co-sponsored by Sri Lanka and 11 other countries. The main aim of the
resolution is investigation of war time violence against Tamil Tiger rebels.
The Tamil Rebels were demanding separate homeland. They were claiming that they were ethnic tamil
minority and hence are eligible for separate homeland.
The US-China Factor
The United States barred the Sri Lankan Army Chief from entering the US soil accusing him of war crimes.
Experts believe that the decision of Sri Lanka to withdraw from UNHRC is an after effect of US move.
Why?
Today, China has taken the port of Hambantota in Sri Lanka for a lease of 99 years. It is now used by the
Chinese as a Naval base. There are more such upper hands of the Chinese in the internal political matters
of Sri Lanka. With China’s greater presence in Sri Lanka and its defence forces, US was hesitant towards the
Sri Lankan Army Chief visit to the US.

February 28, 2020
Myanmar President Visits India: India-Myanmar sign 10 MoUs
On February 27, 2020, the Myanmar President U Win Myint visited India. During his visit, India and Myanmar
signed 10 MoUs in different sectors.
Highlights
The leaders signed agreements on Repatriation and Re-integration of Victims of trafficking, Quick Impact
Projects, Development of Rakhine State, etc. They also signed Memorandum of Understandings on
construction of schools, roads, water supply systems and solar power systems.
Rakhine State
The Rakhine State of Myanmar is the region of ongoing conflict between buddhist community and Rohingya
community. The Conflict began during world war II. During World War II, the Rohingya Muslims fought along
side British against the Rakhine Buddhists in return of a separate Muslim state.
The current Myanmar Government is facing international condemnation including the United Nations. And is
hence finding ways to develop the region. The agreement aims to help Myanmar develop the state of
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Rakhine.
It is to be noted that India has joined hands with the Myanmar Government in building Sitwe port and the
port is situated in the state of Rakhine. The port is also a part of the Kaladan Multi Model Transit Project.
Light Combat Helicopter Production inaugurated in HAL Bengaluru
On February 27, 2020, the Defence Minister Raj Nath Singh inaugurated Light combat Helicopter production
at the HAL complex in Bengaluru. The project is a part of the “Make in India” initiative.
Light Combat Helicopters
The Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) were completely designed by HAL. It has 2 engines and several latest
technical features. The helicopters are to be deployed at the Siachen base which is 4,700 metres above the
sea level. It has the capacity to carry 500 kg of load.
Significance
India has been taking several steps to strengthen the Indian Air Force and also to increase Defence Exports.
India has set a target of achieving Rs 35,000 crores of Defence Exports by 2024. Manufacturing of the Light
Combat Helicopter will help India achieving the above goals.
Background
The need for the production of Light Combat Helicopters came from Kargil war. The LCH is a derivative of
HAL Dhruv that was developed during 1990s.
NITI Aayog launches Artificial Intelligence Modules in Schools
The GoI think tank NITI Aayog joined hands with the National Association of Software and Services
(NASSCOM) and launched the Artificial Intelligence module for school students. The NITI Aayog is to be
represented by Atal Innovation Mission of the think tank.
Highlights
The Artificial Intelligence module is to be implemented in 5,000 Atal Tinkering labs and this is to empower
2.5 million students. NITI Aayog believes that India shall add 1.3% of its GDP if machine learning and
Artificial Intelligence are developed.
Significance
It is expected that the global Artificial Market is likely to grow to the range of 15 to 15.5 trillion USD by
2030. Of this India is to certainly contribute 1 trillion USD. Therefore, its is important to prepare work power
to sustain the growth of the field. If Indian work power is not being prepared to fill the future requirement,
the spaces will be occupied by foreign nationals. This will create unemployment amongst Indian citizens
and also push Indian economy backwards.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana: 32 projects sanctioned
On February 27, 2020, the Inter-Ministerial Approval Committee chaired by the Minister of Food Processing
sanctioned 32 projects under Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY).
Highlights
The projects sanctioned have the capacity to create 15,000 employment opportunities. The projects aim at
increasing the shelf life of agricultural produce and provide steady revenue for the farmers.
Significance
The market of processed food is growing at a rate of 8% every year. Therefore, by the end of 2020 it is
expected to reach 543 billion USD from 322 billion USD in 2016.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana
The Scheme was launched in 2016 for a period of 4 years, that is, till 2020. The GoI had allocated Rs 6,000
crores for the scheme. The scheme was launched to develop seven major components namely Integrated
Cold Chain, Mega Food Parks, Infrastructure for Agro-Processing clusters, food safety, expansion of food
processing, human resources and institutions, quality assurance infrastructure.
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The scheme mainly aims at creating food processing units and developing the existing ones.
GoI to establish Central Consumer Protection Authority
The GoI recently decided to establish Central Consumer Protection Authority under the Consumer
Protection act, 2019.
Consumer Protection Authority
The authority protects, promotes and enforces rights of the consumers. It also regulates matters that are
related to unfair trade practices, violation of consumer rights and misleading advertisements.
Central Consumer Protection act, 2019
The act was passed to strengthen consumer rights. It replaced the Consumer Protection act, 1986. The act
defines 6 consumer acts namely right to safety, right to be informer, right to choose, right to be heard, right
to consumer education and right to grievance redressal.
Misleading Advertisements
The act gives special focus to stop misleading advertisements. The Section 21 of the Consumer Protection
act, 2019 deals with misleading advertisements. Under the Section 21 of the act, the consumer Protection
Authority may impose penalty upto Rs 10 lakhs on the advertiser, manufacturer, trader or even the endorser.
The Authority has powers to ban the endorser as well.
February 28: National Science Day
Every year on February 28, India celebrates National Science Day to mark the discovery of Raman Effect by
Sir C V Raman. Raman Effect was discovered by the professor on February 28, 1928. This year, the National
Science Day is celebrated under the theme
Theme: Women in Science
History
The National Science Day was first designated in 1986 and was first celebrated in 1987. Sir C V Raman
announced his discovery on this day. He was later awarded the Nobel Prize for this discovery in 1930.
It was the National Council for Science and Technology that asked the GoI to pronounce February 28 as the
National Science Day. The Council operates under Department of Science and Technology and is the nodal
agency in implementing the celebrations of the day.
Raman Effect
The Effect states about scattering of light. When a beam of light comes out of a liquid, the light wave
scattered in a direction is different from that of the incoming light wave.

GoI to increase reach of banking in the North-East Tea Garden areas
On February 27, 2020, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman announced that the banking in the North East
Region is to be increased.
Highlights
The minister in a meeting with economists, trade and industry representatives and policy experts
announced that the banking in the tea garden regions of the north east is to be increased. This is being
done to cover greater population of the North East under Financial Inclusion.
Background
The main challenge in implementing Financial Inclusive schemes in the tea gardens of Assam or any other
tea-based region is daily wages. The tea garden workers prefer cash in hand. This is mainly because most
of the workers here are women and are illiterate.
In 2016, when digital India was being implemented widely all over India, discussions were held to direct
Assam Gramin Vikas Bank and State Bank of india to overcome the problem of daily wagers and their
demand for cash in hand. However, the results were not as expected. Therefore, the GoI has now decided to
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increase the banking services and infrastructure to increase banking in the region.
Eastern Zonal Council Meet to be held in Bhubaneswar
The Eastern Zonal Council meeting for the states of Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal and Jharkhand is to be
chaired by home Minister Amit Shah. The meeting is to discuss cases of rape against women, sexual
offences, prevention of cattle smuggling in the India-Bangladesh Border, etc.
Highlights
The Home Minister will discuss with the Chief Ministers of all the 4 participating states. The minister will
also review the status of the amendments of Code of Criminal Procedure. Under the amendment, the time
limit of the completion of investigation of criminal cases were limited to two months. This was done
through the Criminal Law Amendment Act, 2018
Previous Councils
In the recent meetings of Western Zonal Council and Northern Zonal Council, the Home Minister directed
the state police review pending cases as quickly as possible. The Council also instructed to update case
details at Investigation Tracking System for Sexual Offences. It is an online portal that helps states to
undertake real-time monitoring, managing and completion of cases, especially rape cases in 2 months.
Zonal Council
Zonal Councils are statutory bodies constituted under States Reorganization Act of 1956. According to the
act, India is divided into 5 zones and a council has been set up for every zone. The zones include Northern,
Eastern, Western, Southern and Central. In 1971, the North Eastern council was created.
February 29, 2020
Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana: PM distributes aids and devices to Divyangjan and Senior Citizens
On February 29, 2020, PM Modi is to distribute assistive aids and devices to senior citizens and Divyangjan.
This is the biggest ever distribution camp.
Highlights
The distribution camp of assistive aids and devices for senior citizens and Divyangjans by PM Modi is being
organized by the Ministry of Social Justice. The objective of the event is to propagate information to senior
citizens and Divyangjan belonging to Below Poverty Line category about how to face their challenges in day-
to-day life.
Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana
The RVY was launched in 2016 at Nellore, Andhra Pradesh. Since then 137 of these device distribution
camps have been conducted.
The main aim of the scheme is to provide assisstive aids and devices to senior citizens and Divyangjans.
Significance
According to Census 2011, there are 10.38 crores of senior citizens. And of these, more than 70% of them
live in rural areas. Therefore, it is essential to take special care towards them through these camps
organized under Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana.
Mission Purvodaya: India-Japan join hands to make Odisha a Steel Hub
On February 28, 2020, the Union Minister of Steel announced at a workshop organized by Confederation of
Indian Industries (CII) that GoI is to make Odisha the steel hub of India. This is to be achieved by the
Government with the help of Japan.
Highlights
Odisha has been selected to establish steel hub due to its strategic location, availability of raw materials
and strong connectivity. The city of Kalinga Nagar is to be developed as the epicenter of Mission
Purvodaya. With implementation of the mission, more than 75% of steel is to come from eastern India with
Odisha alone contributing more than 100 metric tonnes per annum.
@upsc_thoughts
Mission Purvodaya
The mission was launched in January 2020. It aims to develop Eastern India as an integrated steel hub.
Under the mission, the GoI aims to generate employment opportunities and also increase growth of steel
sector.
This will also help achieve the target of National Steel Policy, which is producing 300 MT of steel by 2030.
PM Modi launches 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations
On February 29, 2020, PM Modi shall launch 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations at Chitrakoot. The event
is being organized to commemorate the successful completion of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi
Yojana.
Significance
There are more than 86% of small and marginal farmers that hold less than 1.1 hectares of land. They face
challenges in buying fertilizers, quality seed, pesticides. The Farmer Producer Organization help farmers in
addressing these challenges. They help farmers gain better access to market, technology and finance.
Therefore, launching more and more of these organizations will help in betterment of life of the farmers.
This will also help GoI in achieving its target of doubling farmers’ income by 2022.
Kisan Credit Card
The PM will also launch a saturation drive on Kisan Credit Card to the beneficiaries PM Kisan Samman Nidhi
Yojana. The motive of the drive is to distribute 2 crore cards to the beneficiaries of the scheme. Today, over
6.5 crore cards have been issued under the scheme.
February 29: World Rare Disease Day
Every Year, last date of February is observed as World Rare Disease Day. It was first launched by Eurordis in
2008. It aims to create awareness about the impacts of the disease. This year, it is observed on the theme
Theme: Reframe Rare for Rare Disease Day
Rare Diseases
The rare diseases include Thalassemia, Haemophilia, Sickle Cell Anaemia and primary immune deficiency
according to WHO.
India
There are more than 70 million people that are affected by rare diseases in India. In order to fight against
rare diseases, the Union Ministry of Health released National Policy for Rare Diseases.
National Policy on Rare Diseases
The National Policy on Rare Diseases aims to provide treatment up to Rs 15 lakhs. It proposes to set up a

registry under ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research). The policy categorizes rare diseases into three
categories namely disorders requiring long term or long-life therapy, disorders amenable to one-time
treatment and incurable rare disease disorders that require lifelong supportive care.
World Productivity Congress in India after 45 years of gap
The World Productivity Congress has been conducted by the World Confederation of Productivity Science
since 1969. It was last held in India in 1974. The Congress is held under the theme
Theme: Industry 4.0-Innovation and Productivity
Highlights
The 19th World Productivity Congress to be held in Bengaluru aims at catalyzing government approaches in
enhancing productivity. It is to be held between May 6, 2020 and May 8, 2020.
Purpose
The Congress will act as a platform to shape future productivity growth. It will also help India and other
attending stakeholders to learn innovative approaches that are essential to support the growing population.
It is expected that the world population will reach 9.7 billion by 2050 and 11.2 billion by 2100 according to
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the United Nations.

Significance
According to the World Economic Forum, India will become the third largest economy in the world after US
and China by 2030. Also, in the next few years India is expected to grow at 7% though it is facing a
slowdown currently. This huge market potential of India makes it an ideal choice for the 19th world
productivity congress.
ICGS Varad: First Major Defence ship to clear all acceptance Trials in a Single Sea Sortie
On February 28, 2020, the Indian Coast Guard’S ICGS Varad, an Offshore Patrol Vessel was commissioned
at Chennai port. The vessel is to operate under North Eastern Coast Guard Region.
Highlights
The ICGS was built by L&T at Kattupalli near Chennai. It is 98 metres long and holds modern navigation and
communication equipment. It is also equipped with 30 mm and 12.7 mm guns. The vessel also holds other
onboard features such as platform management systems, integrated bridge system, high power external fire
fighting system, etc.
Special Features of the vessel
The Patrol vessel is equipped with pollution responsible equipment for oil spill at sea and also swift
boarding operations. It is also capable of carrying a twin-engine helicopter and also 4 high speed boats.
The vessel is the first defence ship to clear the acceptance trials in a single sea sortie. In simple words, the
vessel cleared the trials of checking of its military operations in a single go.
What is Sortie?
Sortie is deployment of military unit in aircraft and shipping. It is a combat mission that an individual
aircraft deploys as it takes off.
Quiz:February 16-17, 2020
1. The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) is to be set up in which Indian state?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Gujarat
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Kerala
Answer: Gujarat
India and Portugal recently signed an MoU to develop a world-class National Maritime Heritage Complex
(NMHC) at Lothal in Gujarat. The MoU has been signed in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi
and Portugal President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, during his visit to India.
The complex would showcase rich Indian artefacts and create awareness among the public about the
rich heritage of the country. The two countries also signed as many as 14 agreements in several fields
including maritime transport and ports.
2. Which is the first and only private firm to build and deliver research ships in India?
[A] Titagarh Wagons Ltd
[B] Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
[C] Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
[D] Goa Shipyard
Answer:
Titagarh Wagons Ltd
Indian private firm Titagarh Wagons Ltd has recently commissioned the second coastal research vessel
‘Sagar Anveshika’, for Chennai-based National Institute of Ocean Technology.
The ship has been delivered four months ahead of the schedule. The firm had received the order for the
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ship in 2017. The first research ship named ‘Sagar Tara’ was delivered to the institute in the month of
August 2019. By commissioning both the vessels, it has become the first and only private firm to build
and deliver research ships in the country.
3. What is the theme of the 56th Munich Security Conference (MSC) 2020?
[A] Westlessness
[B] Sustainable Development Goals
[C] We Can Work Together
[D] Security for All
Answer: Westlessness
The 56th edition of the Munich Security Conference (MSC) has recently commenced in Germany’s
southern city, Munich. The theme of this year’s conference is selected to be “Westlessness”.
Indian External Affairs Minister S.Jaishankar has represented India in the conference. More than 500
international leaders, including 35 heads of state and as many as 100 Foreign and Defence ministers
have gathered in the city, to discuss current security crises and challenges
4. What is the name of the third corporate passenger train of India?
[A] Tejas Express
[B] Kashi Mahakal Express
[C] Kashi Indore Express
[D] Kashi Vishwanath Express
Answer: Kashi Mahakal Express
The subsidiary of Indian Railways, IRCTC is set to launch its third corporate passenger train Kashi
Mahakal Express on the Varanasi-Indore Route. It is a premium train to be run by IRCTC, that will
connect three temples namely Omkareshwar temple near Indore, Mahakaleshwar temple of Ujjain and
Kashi Vishwanath temple of Varanasi.
After Tejas Express trains, which are being run on the Lucknow-Delhi and Ahmedabad-Mumbai routes,
this is the third private train which will be operated to connect religious places of Madhya Pradesh and
Uttar Pradesh.
5. ‘Kambala’, which was in news recently, is a traditional sport of which state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Andhra Pradesh

[C] Kerala
[D] Tamil Nadu
Answer: Karnataka
Kambala is a traditional sport of Karnataka, in which the people of coastal districts of the state conduct
a buffalo-race.
It was in news recently as one of the local contestants from Dakshina Kannada district named Srinivas
Gowda covered 142.5 m Kambala in just 13.62 seconds. The Sports Authority of India recently
announced that it will devise a suitable course for the runner. He is called for trials by the Sports
Ministry.
6. Yash Bharti Award is the highest award of which Indian state/UT?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Odisha
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Punjab
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Yash Bharti Award is the highest award of the state Government of Uttar Pradesh which was instituted in
the year 1994. The state has recently announced that Yash Bharti Award is to be replaced with State
Cultural Award.
State Cultural Award will be presented to the great personalities of the state, who contribute to the state
in several fields including music, modern and traditional art Ramlila, folk dialects, lake-dance and
sculpture. Cash prize is also to be included in the award.
7. Which state commenced operations of India’s first Inter-City Electric Bus service?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Odisha
[D] Telangana
Answer: Maharashtra
India’s first inter-city electric bus service was recently inaugurated in the state of Maharashtra between
Mumbai and Pune by the Union Transport minister Nitin Gadkari.
The luxury electric bus with 43-seater capacity has been manufactured by a private firm and being
operated by another Maharashtra-based mobility firm. The bus would be operated twice daily between
the two cities.
8. As per the recent ‘Military Balance’ report, the defence modernisation of which country led to higher
military spending by the US?
[A] Russia
[B] China
[C] Japan
[D] India
Answer: China
London-based research institute, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) recently released
its annual “Military Balance” report. It stated that Global spending on defence increased by four percent
in 2019 and it is the largest growth in 10 years.
The increase is led by huge increases from the US and China. It also revealed that the defence
modernisation of China led to higher defence spending by the US. Both China and the US increased their

spending by 6.6 per cent, as per the report.
9. Udyani Mane, who was in news recently, is an Indian player of which sports?
[A] Tennis
[B] Wrestling
[C] Golf
[D] Badminton
Answer: Golf
Udayan Mane was recently seen in news, as the Pune-based Golfer recently won the TATA Steel PGTI
Players Championship. He defeated his fellow player Veer Ahlawat of Gurugram.
Udayan Mane has also clinched the last two PGTI events including the TATA Steel Tour Championship
2019 and Golconda Masters 2020. He became only the second player to win three consecutive events of
the TATA Steel PGTI.
10. Which country has recently developed a recovery-plasma to treat COVID-19 infected patients?
[A] India
@upsc_thoughts
[B] China
[C] Thailand
[D] Japan
Answer: China
The biotechnology research company of China- ‘China National Biotec Group’ has developed
convalescent plasma to treat the patients who are infected with the COVID-19 (novel corona virus)
The company has collected plasma from some of the recovered patients in the Wuhan city of China and
developed therapeutic products that include convalescent plasma and immune globulin. They are used
to treat critically ill patients, who have shown significant improvement with the treatment.
Quiz:18-Feb-20
1. ‘Yodhavu’ (Warrior), a mobile application for curbing drug menace, is an initiative of which state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Kerala
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Telangana
Answer: Kerala
The Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan recently launched the mobile application called ‘Yodhavu’
(Warrior), for curbing drug menace in the state.
The Police Department of Kochi, Kerala has introduced the application, through which the public can
inform police about drug abuse and distribution of drugs. The identity of the informer would be kept
secret, according to the police. A cyberdom cyber crime police station was also inaugurated by the Chief
Minister.
2. The late External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was born in which city, where she was elected as MLA
twice?
[A] Ambala Cantt, Haryana
[B] Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
[C] Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat
[D] Ludhiana, Punjab
Answer: Ambala Cantt, Haryana
The late Union External Affairs Minister of India and a veteran politician of BJP, Sushma Swaraj was
born in Ambala Cantt, Haryana, where she was elected as MLA twice.
Recently, the 18-Crore newly-constructed bus-stand of Ambala city was renamed after Sushma Swaraj.
The senior leader passed away last year in the month of August, at the age of 67. She has been named
as the recipient of Padma Vibhushan award this year, posthumously.
3. What is the current accounting year of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?
[A] April-March
[B] July-June
[C] January-December
[D] May-April
Answer: July-June
The current accounting year of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is July-June. Recently, the Central Board
of Directors of the RBI recommended to align the accounting year of RBI with the financial year of the
government (April-March), from 2020-21.
The RBI board announced this proposal at its 582nd meeting and approved to forward the proposal to
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the government for receiving its consideration. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed
the meeting.
4. What is the objective of the ‘CREDAI Awaas’ mobile application, recently launched by CREDAI?
[A] Redressal of Consumer Grievance
[B] Ease of purchase of Residential properties
[C] Geo-tagging of Residential properties
[D] Approval for Residential properties
Answer: Ease of purchase of Residential properties
Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI) is the apex body of Private Real
Estate Developers Associations. It has launched a mobile application called ‘CREDAI Awaas’, which aims
to facilitate ease of purchase of residential properties by homebuyers.
Through this application, a credible platform is created for prospective home buyers so that they identify
suitable Residential properties and contact their developers directly. The details of the CREDAI member
developers are displayed in the application.
5. Joshna Chinappa and Saurav Ghosal are associated with which sports?
[A] Badminton
[B] Squash
[C] Tennis
[D] Table-Tennis
Answer: Squash
The Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI)-77th Senior National squash championships was recently
held at Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
Ace Indian squash player Joshna Chinappa clinched the women’s title by beating Tanvi Khanna, while
another top-rated player Saurav Ghosal bagged the men’s title by defeating Abhishek Pradhan in straight
sets. The champions were awarded a prize money of Rs. 1,25,000 each.
6. Which city was host to the India-Bangladesh SAMPRITI-IX joint military exercise?
[A] Umroi
[B] Kolkata
[C] Vishakhapatnam
[D] Kochi

Answer: Umroi
The 9th edition of the Joint exercise between the armies of India and Bangladesh, SAMPRITI recently
concluded at Umroi, Meghalaya. The two-week exercise was held from February 3 to 16, 2020.
The personnel of the two countries shared their experiences on counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism
operations and disaster management techniques. The exercise helped to strengthen ties between India
and Bangladesh, and mutual operability between the armies.
7. As of 2020, which is the only Bollywood movie to win 13 Filmfare Awards?
[A] Uri: The Surgical Strike
[B] Article 15
[C] Saand Ki Aankh
[D] Gully Boy
Answer: Gully Boy
The Bollywood movie based on the life of two rap singers, Gully Boy created history in the Filmfare
awards by winning 13 of them. The film won in all 13 categories, which it was nominated in.
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In the event held in Guwahati, the film beat the previous record of 11 awards held by ‘Black’ by winning in
categories that include Best Film, Best Director for Zoya Akhtar, Best Actor for Ranveer Singh and Best
Actress for Alia Bhatt. It also bagged Supporting Role Male and Female, Best Music Album and Best
Lyrics.
8. What is the theme of Telangana’s biotechnology and life sciences forum ‘BioAsia 2020’?
[A] Life Science for All
[B] Today For Tomorrow
[C] Instrumental Life Sciences
[D] Better Bio-tech
Answer: Today For Tomorrow
The 17th edition of Asia’s largest biotechnology and life sciences forum, ‘BioAsia 2020’ recently
commenced in the city of Hyderabad, Telangana.
The three-day event began with the theme of ‘Today for Tomorrow’. More than 2000 delegates from as
many as 37 countries. A massive exhibition with 175 exhibitors and experts is also set to be organised.
Switzerland, which is the partner country of this year’s conference, has sent its 40-member to participate
in the event.
9. ‘Appreciate and Commend’ is a scheme of which state, which aims to honour outstanding Police officers?
[A] Odisha
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Punjab
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Answer: Punjab
The Police Department of Punjab has recently launched an award scheme called ‘Appreciate and
Commend’. The DGP of Punjab launched the scheme, which aims to honour the Police officers who
perform their duties diligently.
Under the scheme, the District Police chiefs will submit nominations of outstanding cops at the end of
every month. A committee of senior officers would screen them and the awardees would be announced
every month.
10. Which city plays host to ‘GulFood 2020’, the world’s largest annual food and beverage trade exhibition?
[A] Riyadh

[B] Abu Dhabi
[C] Dubai
[D] Doha
Answer: Dubai
‘GulFood 2020’, the world’s largest annual food and beverage trade exhibition is being held in the Dubai
World Trade Centre city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), form February 16 to 20.
In the 25th edition of the exhibition, more than 5000 exhibitors are to participate. The Indian pavilion at
the exhibition was recently inaugurated by the Union Minister for Food Processing Industries-Harsimrat
Kaur Badal.
Quiz:19-Feb-20
1. ERO NET, which was in news recently, is a portal of which autonomous organisation of India?
[A] All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
[B] Election Commission of India (ECI)
[C] Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
@upsc_thoughts
[D] Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA)

Answer: Election Commission of India (ECI)
The Election Commission of India was awarded ‘Silver’ award for ‘Excellence in Government Process re-
engineering for Digital transformation’ from the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public
Grievances (DARPG), during the 23rd National Conference on e-Governance held at Mumbai.
The award is presented to ECI for its portal ERO-NET. The portal uses a mechanism to effectively enter
an applicant in E-roll. It is used for various functions like processing of forms, easy handling of the
databases and maintenance of E-Rolls.
2. Who was recently named as the nominee for the proposed Delimitation Commission for Jammu and
Kashmir?
[A] Sunil Arora
[B] Sushil Chandra
[C] Om Prakash Rawat
[D] A K Jyoti
Answer: Sushil Chandra
Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra has been named as the nominee for the proposed Delimitation
Commission for Jammu and Kashmir, by the Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora, after a request
from the government.
As per the J-K Reorganisation Act, 2019, the number of Legislative Assembly seats of Jammu and
Kashmir UT shall be increased from 107 to 114, and delimitation of the constituencies shall be
determined by the Election Commission of India.
3. The first Bird-ringing station of the country with support of a state government, is to be built in which
state/ UT?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Bihar
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Odisha
Answer: Bihar
The first Bird-ringing station of the country, set up with support of a state government, is to be built in
the state of Bihar. This is the fourth such facility in the country. The station, whose main centre is to be

built at Bhagalpur, is dedicated for observation, monitoring and research on migratory birds. Rings with
chips to track source and origin of birds are placed on their legs.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was exchanged between representatives of the Bihar
government and the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), during the COP-13 CMS summit.
4. Which Taxi-hailing start-up recently integrated with the Himmat application of Delhi Police?
[A] Ola
[B] Uber
[C] Didi
[D] Lyft
Answer: Uber
Taxi hailing app Uber recently announced that it has integrated with the Himmat application of Delhi
Police.
Under this partnership, Uber and Delhi Police distributed nearly 1,000 Himmat QR Verification Cards to
driver partners. The passenger can report their journey directly to the Delhi Police, by scanning the QR
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card via the app. They can also access details of the diver and vehicle. Sharing the ride information is
optional to passengers.
5. Which global financial institution is set to grant $450 million loan to India for Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABHY)?
[A] Asian Development Bank
[B] World Bank
[C] Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
[D] New Development Bank
Answer: World Bank
The Indian government and the World Bank recently signed a USD 450 million loan agreement to support
the national programme Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABHY).
The National programme was launched with an objective of arresting the groundwater depletion and
strengthening groundwater institutions. The World Bank-supported programme will be implemented in
the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh
and cover 78 districts.
6. Who is the head of the High level expert group on farm exports, recently set up by the 15th Finance
Commission?
[A] N K Singh
[B] U K Sinha
[C] Tapan Ray
[D] Sanjiv Puri
Answer: Sanjiv Puri
The 15th Finance Commission (FFC) recently set up a High level expert group on farm exports. The
group is to be headed by the Chairman and Managing director of ITC, Sanjiv Puri.
The committee comprises various members including Former agriculture secretary- Radha Singh and
chairman of APEDA- Paban K. Borthakur. The committee will suggest performance-based incentives to
the state governments for 2021-22 to 2025-26, to accelerate agricultural reforms and exports in the
sector.
7. Which organisation has recently initiated the process of capturing district-wise data on origin of export
goods?
[A] Export and Import Bank of India

[B] Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
[C] NITI Aayog
[D] Export Promotion Council
Answer: Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has recently started to capture district-wise
data on origin of export goods.
This proposed export information will provide a comprehensive statistical input about the importance of
each district, to policymakers. Hence the policies could be aligned with better knowledge of districts and
thereby enhancing the local potential.
8. As per the recent report of World Population Review, what is the rank of India in the ‘Largest Economy of
the World’ list?
[A] Seventh
[B] Sixth
[C] Fifth
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[D] Fourth
Answer: Fifth
World Population Review, a US-based think tank, recently stated in its report that India emerged as the
world’s fifth largest economy in 2019, with a GDP of $ 2.94 trillion. India has overtaken the UK and
France, to be placed in the 5th position.
The report also stated that in Purchasing power parity (PPP) terms, India’s GDP (PPP) is $ 10.51 trillion,
which is also ahead of Japan and Germany. It also revealed that India’s real GDP growth will decrease
for the third year from 7.5 per cent to 5 per cent.
9. Which city plays host to the ‘3rd Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety’?
[A] Stockholm
[B] Oslo
[C] Helsinki
[D] Warsaw
Answer: Stockholm
The 3rd High Level Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety has been recently hosted in Stockholm,
the capital city of Sweden.
India’s Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways and MSMEs, Nitin Gadkari is to represent India.
The theme of the conference is ‘Achieving Global Goals 2030’. The Global Conference is co-sponsored
by the World Health Organization (WHO).
10. What is the name of the storm which hit the United Kingdom in February 2020?
[A] Habine
[B] Dennis
[C] Kyar
[D] Ciara
Answer: Dennis
The United Kingdom recently witnessed a devastating storm named ‘Dennis’, after which the weather
agency of the country issued a Danger to life warning.
There were widespread flooding and heavy winds across the country. In the last 48 hours, as many as
594 warnings and alerts had been issued. The places which were affected include South Wales and
parts of western England. The storm also hit some parts of France.

Quiz:20-Feb-20
1. What is the name of the fourth warship delivered by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers-GRSE to
the Indian Navy?
[A] INS Kiltan
[B] INS Kamorta
[C] INS Kadmatt
[D] INS Kavaratti
Answer: INS Kavaratti
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE), a defence PSU based at Kolkata has recently
delivered an anti-submarine warfare stealth corvette named ‘INS Kavaratti’ to the Indian Navy.
This is the fourth and the last of the ASWC series built by the PSU GRSE, under Project 28 class. The
other three warships earlier delivered were- INS Kamorta, INS Kadmatt and INS Kiltan. Kavaratii and
Kiltan are the first two major warships of India to possess a superstructure made of carbon fiber
composite material.
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2. The ‘Task Force on Blue Economy for Sustainable Development’ is a collaboration between India and
which country?
[A] Switzerland
[B] Norway
[C] Sweden
[D] France
Answer: Norway
The India-Norway Task Force on Blue Economy for Sustainable Development was recently inaugurated
by India’s Earth Sciences Minister- Harsh Vardhan and Norway’s Minister for Climate and Environment.
The two countries also started a new framework for cooperation in ‘Integrated Ocean Management &
Research’. The task force was introduced in January 2019, jointly by the Prime Ministers of India and
Norway.
3. ‘Berlinale’ is the 70th edition of which famous festival, which is set to be inaugurated in Germany?
[A] Berlin Food Festival
[B] Berlin Film Festival
[C] Berlin Defence Show
[D] Berlin Arts Fair
Answer: Berlin Film Festival
The 70th edition of the famous Berlin film festival “Berlinale” is set to be held from 20th February to 1st
march, this year. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting of India, in collaboration with
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), is participating in the festival.
Union External Affairs Minister of India, S. Jaishankar will inaugurate the Indian Pavilion. Three Indian
feature films and a short documentary film have been selected for screening in the global event.
4. Which state government has recently launched a scheme named ‘Nadu-Nedu’, for modernising hospitals?
[A] Telangana
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Karnataka
[D] Tamil Nadu
Answer: Andhra Pradesh
The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy recently launched a scheme named

‘Nadu-Nedu’, for modernising hospitals.
Under the scheme, all the government hospitals of the state are to be modernised in three years, with the
government assistance of Rs.15337 Crores. The hospitals are to be made on par with the highest
standard of the country, Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS).
5. Which country is set to host the men’s edition of the junior hockey World Cup 2021?
[A] India
[B] Argentina
[C] France
[D] Brazil
Answer: India
International Hockey Federation (FIH) recently announced that India will host the men’s edition of the
junior hockey World Cup 2021.
The women’s junior World Cup event will be held in Potchefstroom in South Africa. This is the first time
the African continent is organising the apex sports event. The Continental qualifier matches are
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scheduled throughout this year and the World cup would be held at the end of 2021.
6. Chief Minister Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (CMAPS) and the Yuva Udyamita Vikas Abhiyan (YUVA)
are the schemes of which state government?
[A] Odisha
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Punjab
The Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday announced two new schemes during its budget presentation.
Under the proposed ‘Chief Minister Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (CMAPS)’, youth of the state in
MSME units are to given on-job training and employment. A stipend is also to be provided.
Yuva Udyamita Vikas Abhiyan (YUVA) hubs are to be set up, to train two lakh youths under various
training programmes of the UP Skill Development Mission. A provision of Rs.100 Cr and Rs.50 Cr are
allocated for the schemes respectively.
7. Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA), was renamed after which former Union Minister?
[A] Arun Jaitley
[B] Sushma Swaraj
[C] Manohar Parikkar
[D] George Fernandes
Answer: Manohar Parikkar
The New Delhi-based government think tank, Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA) was
renamed as Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, to honour the late Defence
Minister of India. The Padma Bhushan awardee, who served as the Defence Minister from 2014 to 2017,
passed away last year.
The erstwhile IDSA is a think tank for research in international relations and Security issues. It also
houses a training academy for civilian and military officers of the government.
8. As per the ‘State of India’s Birds Report 2020’, which bird species showed a big increase in population?
[A] Indian peafowl
[B] Great Indian Bustard
[C] Common Ostrich

[D] Turkey
Answer: Indian peafowl
The ‘State of India’s Birds Report 2020’ was recently released during the 13th Conference of Parties to
the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP 13).
As per the report, 79 per cent of Indian species of birds declined in population while the number of
Indian pea fowls has significantly increased. The number of house sparrows remained almost stable
across the country. The report classified 101 species in the ‘high conservation’ category.
9. What is the name of the exhibition, organised by the Ministry of Textiles, for promoting Geographical
Indication (GI) crafts?
[A] Shilp Mela
[B] Kala Mela
[C] Shilp Kumbh
[D] Kala Kumbh
Answer: Kala Kumbh
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The Ministry of Textiles is organising a Handicraft thematic Exhibition exhibition named ‘Kala Kumbh’,
for promoting Geographical Indication (GI) crafts, through the Office of Development Commissioner
(Handicrafts).
Recently the Kala Kumbh exhibition was inaugurated at Bengaluru and Mumbai. It is also proposed to be
held at other major Indian cities including Kolkata and Chennai next month. Export Promotion Council
for Handicrafts (EPCH) will sponsor the thematic exhibitions. As on August 2019, 178 GI handicraft
products have been registered from across the country.
10. Kishori Ballal, who recently passed away, was a veteran actor of which language?
[A] Telugu
[B] Kannada
[C] Odia
[D] Punjabi
Answer: Kannada
Veteran Kannada actor Kishori Ballal recently passed away at the age of 82. She was known for starring
with Shah Rukh Khan in his movie -Swades as ‘Kaveri Amma’.
She made her acting debut during 1960 in the movie ‘Ivalentha Hendathi’ and has acted in more than 75
movies of different Indian languages. The artist had been acting for more than 50 years and starred in
several Bollywood films too.
Quiz:21-Feb-20
1. What is the corpus of the dedicated fund raised from the fines charged from the defaulting pesticides
companies and contributions from the Central and state governments under the Pesticides Management
Bill, 2020?
[A] Rs. 20,000 Crore
[B] Rs. 40,000 Crore
[C] Rs. 50,000 Crore
[D] Rs. 100,000 Crore
Answer: Rs. 50,000 Crore
Bill moots setting up a dedicated fund of Rs 50,000 crore, raised from the fines charged from the
defaulting pesticides companies and contributions from the Central and state governments.
2. Which all three items are not under GST as of February 2020?
[A] Fuel, Construction, Alcohol
[B] Fuel, Movie Tickets, Alcohol
[C] Fuel, Tobacco, Alcohol
[D] Fuel, Dairy Products, Tobacco
Answer: Fuel, Construction, Alcohol
As of now, fuel, construction, alcohol are out of GST. GST on movie tickets is based on slabs, with 18%
GST for tickets that cost less than Rs. 100 and 28% GST on tickets costing more than Rs.100. The rate
on under- construction property booking is 12%. Some industries and products were exempted by the
government and remain untaxed under GST, such as dairy products, products of milling industries, fresh
vegetables & fruits, meat products, and other groceries and necessities.
3. Under the GST regime, E-Way bill is mandatory of the value of inter-state movement of goods is more
than __?
[A] Rs. 50,000
[B] Rs. 100,000
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[C] Rs. 200,000

[D] Rs. 250,000
Answer: Rs. 50,000
An e-Way Bill is an electronic permit for shipping goods any another similar to a waybill. It was made
compulsory for inter-state transport of goods from 1 June 2018. It is required to be generated for every
inter-state movement of goods beyond 10 kilometers and the threshold limit of ₹50,000.
4. What is the highest income tax rate slab in India after Budget 2020-21?
[A] 25%
[B] 30%
[C] 35%
[D] 40%
Answer: 30%
Highest income tax rate is 30% for income above 15,00,000.
5. A paramilitary Sufi group called Ahlu Sunna Waljama, which is recently in news, is fighting with radical
islamist group in Civil War of which country?
[A] Sudan
[B] Somalia
[C] Syria
[D] South Sudan
Answer: Somalia
Ahlu Sunna Waljama’a is a Sufi paramilitary group of Somalia. It is formed by moderates who are
opposed to radical islamist Al-Shabaab group. The civil war in Somalia is basically the fight between
these two groups.
6. The term “Operation Car Wash” that was making news recently, is related to which country?
[A] Argentina
[B] Brazil
[C] South Africa
[D] Russia
Answer: Brazil
Operation Car Wash is the name of a criminal and corruption scandal investigation in Brazil.

7. Recently, Ashraf Ghani was re-elected in the Afghanistan Presidential elections. What is the name of
political party of Ashraf Ghani?
[A] National Coalition of Afghanistan
[B] National Congress Party of Afghanistan
[C] Hezb-e Islami Gulbuddin
[D] None
Answer: None
Ashraf Ghani is an independent politician. The recent elections were held in September, 2019 and their
result was declared in February, 2020. As per results, Ghani was re-elected with 50.64% of the vote.
8. The term “Key Starting Material (KSM)”, recently in news, is related to which industry?
[A] Textile Industry
[B] Pharmaceutical Industry
[C] Cement Industry
[D] Paper Industry
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Answer: Pharmaceutical Industry

Key Starting Material (KSM) term is used for intermediates in pharmaceutical industry. These are
building blocks of drug industry. India imports KSM for many medicines from China and due to
Coronavirus fears, the drug industry of the country is facing recession concerns.
9. The Far East Development Fund, which recently submitted an expression of interest (EoI) for the
beleaguered Jet Airways, is based in which country?
[A] France
[B] England
[C] Russia
[D] Germany
Answer: Russia
The Far East Development Fund was established by the Russian government for infrastructure financing.
It facilitates investments in the Far East and Baikal regions, providing preferential and long-term
financing for prioritized investment projects across industries such as infrastructure, upstream and
downstream production of minerals, small and medium enterprises and agriculture. It has reportedly
shown interest to bid for Jet Airways (India) Ltd.
10. Which Supranational union has recently proposed a “framework for trustworthy artificial intelligence”?
[A] Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
[B] European Union
[C] Arab League
[D] Gulf Cooperation Council
Answer: European Union
The EU is pursuing a digital strategy and develop a “framework for trustworthy artificial intelligence”,
focusing on three key objectives: (1) Technology that works for people; (2) A fair and competitive
economy; and (3) An open, democratic and sustainable society.
Quiz:22-Feb-20
1. The “Pandemic Bonds” are issued by which multilateral development bank?
[A] World Bank
[B] Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
[C] European Investment Bank
[D] Asian Development Bank
Answer: World Bank
Pandemic Bonds were launched by World Bank under its Pandemic Emergency Financing umbrella in
2017 in response to the 2013 to 2016 Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia. However, their
efficacy has always been under fire. The bonds issued by the World Bank’s International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), offer investors high coupons in return for the risk of having to
forgo some or all their money in the event of pandemic outbreaks of a number of infectious diseases.
2. The Shanidar Cave, a hotspot for Neanderthal remains, is located in which country?
[A] Syria
[B] Iraq
[C] Tajikistan
[D] Egypt
Answer: Iraq
Shanidar Cave is located in the Kurdistan Region in Iraq in Zagros Mountains. Shanidar Cave was
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excavated in the 1950s, when archaeologist Ralph Solecki uncovered partial remains of ten Neanderthal
men, women and children. Some were clustered together, with clumps of ancient pollen surrounding one
of the skeletons. Solecki claimed this showed Neanderthals buried their dead and conducted funerary
rites with flowers. The ‘flower burial’ captured the public imagination, and prompted a reappraisal of a
species that — prior to Shanidar Cave — was thought to have been dumb and animalistic.
3. Which country is supplier of majority of mined Cobalt, which is used in cathodes for lithium-ion batteries
used in cell phones and Electric vehicles?
[A] China
[B] Kazhakiistan
[C] Sudan
[D] Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Answer: Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Cobalt is a critical element for not only cell phones but also electric vehicles that might be good for the
environment. Roughly 60% of mined cobalt is sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Its
continued availability is becoming an issue due to political environment of DRC.
4. What is the current (2020) number of telecom companies in India?
[A] 10
[B] 8
[C] 6
[D] 4
Answer: 4
Telecom companies in India have reduced from nine in 2016 to four in 2020, including Bharat Sanchar
Nigam Limited (BSNL), the government-owned telecom company. This has happened even as
consumption of mobile services rose 88% from 366 minutes per user per month to 691 while data
consumption grew from less than 0.5 gigabytes (GB) to nearly 11 GB between 2016 and 2019, according
to data from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
5. Which country is world’s biggest palm oil importer?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] Russia

[D] Saudi Arabia
Answer: India
As of 2020, India is largest importer of Palm Oil. India imported 9.4 million tonnes of palm oil in the
marketing year that ended on October 31, including 2.72 million tonnes of refined palm oil. Palm oil
makes up nearly two-thirds of India’s total imports of edible oil. It buys palm oil mainly from Indonesia
and Malaysia, which are the world’s top and second biggest producer of the commodity respectively.
6. Currently, which Economic Census is underway in India?
[A] 5th
[B] 6th
[C] 7th
[D] 8th
Answer: 7th
7th Economic Census is being brought out by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme
Implementation’s Central Statistics Office (Economic Statistics Division). A nationwide Business
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Register as per international practices adopted by developing countries and in line with UNSD
recommendations. It will provide detailed information on economic variables, activity wise, of all the non
agricultural establishments of the country including its distribution at all India, State, district,
village/ward levels for comprehensive analysis of the structure of the economy.
7. As per the National Population Register (NPR), a person is “usual resident” who has resided in a local
area for past how many months / years?
[A] 6 months
[B] 1 year
[C] 18 months
[D] 2 years
Answer: 6 months
National Population Register (NPR) is a list of “usual residents” of the country, defined as a person who
has resided in a local area for the past six months or more or a person who intends to reside in that area
for the next six months or more. It is a register having both biometric and demographic details of every
resident in India from village to district to state to the national level.
8. Who heads the 12-member “Technology Group” to advise ministries, departments and public sector
undertakings (PSUs) on technology implementation?
[A] Dr. R Chidamabaram
[B] Rishikesh Narayanan
[C] Dr K Vijay Raghavan
[D] Bhaskar Saha
Answer: Dr K Vijay Raghavan
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently gave its nod for the constitution of
a 12-member “Technology Group” to advise ministries, departments and public sector undertakings
(PSUs) on technology implementation. The committee will be headed by Dr K Vijay Raghavan, principal
scientific advisor to PM Modi.
9. Which country has highest rate of hepatitis C in the world and is expected to eradicate the disease in
2020?
[A] Saudi Arabia
[B] China

[C] India
[D] Egypt
Answer: Egypt
Egypt has 15-20% prevalence of HCV. The country is expected to eradicate the disease by 2020 after an
ambitious nationwide campaign against the disease.
10. The cabinet of which state in India has cleared a bill to enact the “Time-Bound Clearance Act” which
shall ensure time-bound clearance of industrial licenses for investment projects?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Haryana
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has cleared a draft bill to enact Madhya Pradesh Time-Bound Clearance Act.
This act will ensure time-bound clearance of industrial licenses for investment projects. It envisages
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that around 40 clearances and permissions pertaining to almost 10 state departments will have to be
delivered within a fixed timeframe.
Quiz:February 23-24, 2020
1. What is the rank of India in the ‘Global Flourishing index’ released by WHO Commission and UNICEF?
[A] 91
[B] 111
[C] 121
[D] 131
Answer: 131
A report titled ‘A Future for the World’s Children’ was recently released by a World Health Organization
(WHO) Commission, UNICEF and the Lancet journal.
The report included a new ‘Global Flourishing index’, which compares the countries in measures of child
survival and well-being. Out of the total of 180 countries assessed, India is placed at 131st rank in
flourishing index and 77th rank in sustainability index.
2. Project Tej, which was in news recently, was launched by which Indian state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Odisha
[C] Telangana
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Answer: Telangana
The Government of Telangana have launched Project Tej, in association with a platform
MedTechConnect,during the BioAsia 2020-Biotech and Life Sciences forum of the state. The Project
aims at creating a platform to help entrepreneurs test their ideas in medical technology field.
The state’s Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH) and MedTechConnect signed a MoU in
this regard. MedTechConnect platform was established by the engineering and Tech Company Cyient
and Xynteo’s business alliance called ‘India2022 Coalition’.
3. As per the annual ‘Nature Ranking Index-2020”, which Indian institution is ranked in the first place in the
country?
[A] Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
[B] Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
[C] Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR-Mumbai)
[D] Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI)
Answer: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
As per the ‘Nature Ranking Index-2020’, which is based on total research output of institutions, the
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has been ranked in the first place in the country.
Based on the researches carried out from December 2018 to November 2019, the ranks are devised.
Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, has been ranked second in the index, followed by Tata
Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR-Mumbai).
4. In which year, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh were granted Indian statehood?
[A] 1972
[B] 1977
[C] 1982
[D] 1987
Answer: 1987
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The two north-eastern states Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday observed their Statehood
Day on February 20.
On the same day in the year 1987, the two states were granted Indian statehood. Mizoram was a part of
the state Assam until 1972, the year in which it was made a separate Union Territory. Subsequently, it
became the 23rd state of India on February 20, 1987. The North East Frontier Agency was named
Arunachal Pradesh and made a union territory in 1972, and then made a state in 1987.
5. What does CCPA stand for, in the context of Consumer Protection Act 2019?
[A] Common Consumer Protection Agency
[B] Central Consumer Protection Authority
[C] Company- Consumer Protection Authority
[D] Centralised Consumer Protection Affairs
Answer: Central Consumer Protection Authority
Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Ram Vilas Paswan has recently announced that the Central
Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) will be created to implement the Consumer Protection Act 2019.
The Authority will be established by the first week of April this year. The Minister also announced that an
investigative wing will be formed, which fill function under the authority to carry out inquiries related to
unfair trade practices and deceptive advertisements. The Parliament approved ‘The Consumer
Protection Bill 2019’, which replaced the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, last year.
6. Who was named as the Ernst and Young (EY) Entrepreneur of the Year 2019?
[A] Adi Godrej
[B] Uday Kotak
[C] Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
[D] Sridhar Vembu
Answer: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
The 21st edition of the Ernst and Young (EY) awards for the year 2019 was presented recently. The
Founder and CMD of India’s leading Biopharmaceutical firm-Biocon, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw was named
as the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2019. She is set to represent India at the EY World Entrepreneur of
the Year Award (WEOY) in Monte Carlo, to be held in June.
Godrej Group Chairman Adi Godrej was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award while Tuhin Parikh of
Blackstone India, was the first recipient of the ‘Transformational Impact Person of the Year’ award.

7. Which city was host to the ‘Symposium on Emerging Opportunities for Indian Textiles and Crafts’?
[A] Varanasi
[B] Lucknow
[C] New Delhi
[D] Hyderabad
Answer: New Delhi
The Symposium on Emerging Opportunities for Indian Textiles and Crafts was recently organised in New
Delhi. The symposium was inaugurated by Union Minister of Textiles and Women and Child
Development, Smriti Zubin Irani.
The national symposium was attended by officials from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry and
Ministry of Textiles and representatives of Export Promotion Council.
8. Which Indian sportsperson won the ESPN’s Female Sportsperson of the Year award for the third
consecutive year?
[A] Mary Kom
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[B] P V Sindhu
[C] Saina Nehwal
[D] Sania Mirza
Answer: P V Sindhu
India’s ace shuttler and World champion P V Sindhu won the ESPN’s Female Sportsperson of the Year
award for a third consecutive time. Sindhu’s World Championship victory has also been selected as the
Moment of the Year. Chief National Badminton Coach Pullela Gopichand was selected as the Coach of
the Year.
Top-rated shooter Saurabh Chaudhary bagged the ESPN’s Male Sportsperson of the Year award while
Manu Bhaker-Saurabh Chaudhary duo grabbed the Team of the Year honour.
9. Which portal of Indian Railways has won the Silver in National e-Governance Award for excellence in
providing citizen-centric delivery?
[A] Where is my Train
[B] Rail Suvidha
[C] Rail Madad
[D] Rail Saarthi
Answer: Rail Madad
RailMadad, the grievance redressal portal of Indian Railways, has won the National e-Governance Award
for excellence in providing citizen-centric delivery. The new unified portal of Indian Railways, used for
grievance, inquiry, and assistance, was awarded Silver under Category II of National e-Governance
Awards.
The National e-Governance Awards are presented by the Department of Administrative Reforms and
Public Grievances (DARPG) annually, to promote e-Governance initiatives.
10. Which city was host to NITI Aayog’s ‘Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Conclave 2020’?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Guwahati
[C] Kolkata
[D] Shillong
Answer: Guwahati
NITI Aayog recently organised ‘Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Conclave 2020: Partnerships,

Cooperation and Development of North Eastern States’ in Guwahati, Assam.
The conclave was organised in association with the North Eastern Council, Government of Assam, Tata
Trust, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Research and Information System for
Developing Countries (RIS). The three-day event commenced from February 24th in Guwahati
Quiz:25-Feb-20
1. Vellbergia bartholomaei , which was seen in news recently, belongs to which species?
[A] Frog
[B] Lizard
[C] Spider
[D] Snake
Answer: Lizard
According to the recent research done by the researchers of Harvard University, a new prehistoric reptile
species was discovered, which was claimed to be an ancestor to modern-day lizards and snakes.
The ancient lizard is called as ‘Vellbergia bartholomaei’ and this discovery is expected to reveal several
@upsc_thoughts
details about the revolution of four-legged creatures.

2. Leo Varadkar, who recently tendered his resignation, was the Prime Minister of which country?
[A] France
[B] Ireland
[C] The Netherlands
[D] Greece
Answer: Ireland
The Prime Minister of Ireland Leo Varadkar recently tendered his resignation as Taoiseach, which means
Prime minister in the country.
Though he submitted his resignation to the Irish President Michael Higgins, he continued to stay on as
interim leader. As per the country’s constitution, the Taoiseach and the government will continue to
carry on their duties until successors are appointed.
3. Which state Government has ordered destruction of breeding centres of Thai Mangur fish?
[A] Odisha
[B] West Bengal
[C] Assam
[D] Maharashtra
Answer: Maharashtra
The Thai Mangur fish, which has a similar appearance like fresh water Mangur, is cultivated in highly
unhygienic conditions in the state and it causes sickness to people on consumption.
Hence, the Maharashtra government has launched a special drive to destroy the cultivation centres of
the exotic Thai Mangur fish. The Head of the state fisheries department has ordered a ban on sale of the
fish. The National Green Tribunal had earlier banned the sale of the fish species in 2000.
4. Atal Kisan – Majdoor canteens’ scheme is associated with which state?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Haryana
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Answer: Haryana
The Governor of Haryana, during the budget session of the State Assembly, announced that the Haryana
government will open Atal Kisan – Majdoor canteens in all markets and sugar mills across the state.
The canteens are to be set up to provide affordable meals to farmers and labourers at 10 rupees per
plate. Nearly 25 such canteens are to be established across the state.
5. Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission is implemented by which Union Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
[B] Ministry of Rural Development
[C] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
[D] Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
Answer: Ministry of Rural Development
The fourth Anniversary of the launch of Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM) was
observed on 21st February. In 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Mission under the
Ministry of Rural Development, on the same date.
Under the mission, well planned Rurban clusters are created to stimulate local economic development
and thereby creating an inclusive rural development.
@upsc_thoughts
6. ‘Viewpoints’, which was recently in news, is an application of which major technological company?
[A] Google
[B] Amazon
[C] Facebook
[D] Apple
Answer: Facebook
‘Viewpoints’ is a market research application of the tech-major Facebook. It asks user to participate in
surveys, tasks and product-testing and reward them for the same.
It was in news recently as the company announced that it would financially reward the select group of
users, who agree to record their voice to improvise the firm’s speech-recognition technology. The users
will have to record the audio using a new programme called ‘Pronunciations’ in the application.
7. Which state/UT was host to the ‘National Organic Food Festival’, held recently?
[A] Lakshadweep
[B] Assam
[C] Maharashtra
[D] New Delhi
Answer: New Delhi
The National Organic Food Festival was recently inaugurated in New Delhi by the Union Food Processing
Industries Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani.
‘Unleashing India’s Organic Market Potential’ is the theme of the festival. Hundreds of woman
entrepreneurs and different self-help groups (SHGs) from across the nation exhibit their organic
products in the three-day festival.
8. India is set to provide grant to which country for up-gradation of plantation schools, for Indian-origin
estate workers?
[A] Bangladesh
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] Nepal
[D] Laos
Answer: Sri Lanka
India and Sri Lanka have recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for up-gradation of

infrastructure in plantation schools for estate workers of Indian origin.
The MoU was signed in Colombo, under which infrastructure of 9 plantation schools are to be up-graded
with the assistance of 30 crore rupees from India. Construction and renovation of several school
buildings is also being carried out with Indian grant.
9. ‘Thal Sena Bhawan’, which was seen in news recently, is to be built in which state/ UT?
[A] Ladakh
[B] Jammu and Kashmir
[C] Chandigarh
[D] New Delhi
Answer: New Delhi
India’s new Army Headquarters is christened as ‘Thal Sena Bhawan’. Recently, the Defence Minister laid
foundation stone of the new Headquarters at Delhi Cantonment.
The new Army headquarters is to be constructed spanning around an area of 39 acres. The newly
created Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) office will also be set up in the building. The multi-storeyed
@upsc_thoughts
building is scheduled to be constructed in five years and will have all the offices of Army in the complex.
10. India’s first floating jetty has been inaugurated in which state/UT?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Goa
[C] Mumbai
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Goa
India’s first floating jetty has been inaugurated in Panaji, Goa on the banks of Mandovi River. The jetty is
located in the premises of the state port department.
The jetty, which is made of cement concrete, can be built in a short time. Union Minister of State for
Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the jetty as well as the immigration facility at a cruise
terminal in Mormugao Port.
Quiz:26-Feb-20
1. As of February, 2020, which country is India’s top trade partner?
[A] China
[B] United States
[C] Russia
[D] France
Answer: United States
United States has surpassed China to become India’s top trading partner. According to the Commerce
Ministry data, the bilateral trade between the US and India stood at nearly 88 billion dollars in 2018-19
fiscal. During the period, India’s trade with China was at 87.1 billion dollars. Similarly, during April-
December 2019-20, the bilateral trade between the US and India stood at 68 billion dollars against a
nearly 65 billion dollars trade with China in the same period. America is one of the few countries with
which India has a trade surplus. On the other hand, India has a huge trade deficit with China. In 2018-19,
India has a trade surplus of 16.9 billion dollars with America, while it has a deficit of 53.6 billion dollars
with the neighboring country. The data showed that China was India’s top trading partner since 2013-14
till 2017-18.
2. What was overall rank of India in the Asian Wrestling Championships, 2020 held in New Delhi?
[A] Second
[B] Third
[C] Fourth
[D] Fifth
Answer: Third
The Asian Wrestling Championships, 2020 was held at the KD Jadhav Indoor Stadium, Indira Gandhi
Arena, New Delhi from February 18 to February 23. China was barred from entering into the competition
due to the 2019–20 coronavirus outbreak. The top four countries in the series were Japan, Iran, India
and Kazakhstan. Japan won 8 Gold and total 16 medals. India won 5 Gold medals while total medal tally
was at 20.
3. Which city has recently hosted International Judicial Conference?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Bhopal
[C] Mumbai
[D] Chandigarh
@upsc_thoughts
Answer: New Delhi

The two-day International Judicial Conference, 2020 was held at Supreme Court auditorium, New Delhi.
The theme of the conference was ‘Judiciary and the Changing World.’
4. What is the upper land-holding limit to become eligible for financial support under PM-KISAN scheme?
[A] 1 Hectare
[B] 2 Hectare
[C] 3 Hectare
[D] No limit
Answer: No limit
PM-KISAN scheme launched on 24th February 2019. The schemes provides income support to all
landholding farmers’ families across the country and enable them to meet expenses related to
agriculture as well as domestic needs. Under the Scheme, six thousand rupees per year is transferred in
installments directly into the bank accounts of the farmers. The scheme initially provided income
support to all small and marginal farmers’ families across the country, holding cultivable land up to two
hectares. However, its ambit was later expanded to cover all farmer families in the country irrespective
of the size of their landholdings.
5. The recently set up Sanjiv Puri Expert Group is looking into which domain?
[A] Unorganized Sector
[B] Farm Exports
[C] Manufacturing Industries
[D] Service Sector
Answer: Farm Exports
The 15th Finance Commission has established a high level expert group for looking into agricultural
exports. The committee is to be headed by ITC Chairman and is to submit its report in 3 months. The
Sanjiv Puri Expert Group was set up to look into ways of improving agriculture exports. To encourage
exports, the panel is to come up with measurable performance incentives for states, look at import
substitution opportunities, increase farm productivity, value addition, waste reduction, improve logistics
infrastructure etc.
6. The recently discovered C. gretathunbergae is a species of__?
[A] Fish

[B] Snake
[C] Snail
[D] Frog
Answer: Snail
Scientists in Netherlands have named a new species of land snail discovered in Brunei after Swedish
climate activist Greta Thunberg. Craspedotropis gretathunbergae is a newly discovered species of land
snail. It was named in honour of the Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The snail is noted for
being sensitive to droughts, forest degradation and temperature extremes. It belongs to a group of
snails called Caenogastropods.
7. Which state has recently ordered the destruction of ‘Thai Magur’ fish breeding centers?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Goa
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Maharashtra
@upsc_thoughts
Answer: Maharashtra
The Maharashtra government recently ordered the destruction of ‘Thai Magur’ fish breeding centres
because of the threat posed to native fishes and the unhygienic conditions. Thai Magur is a type of
catfish. It is also known as the exotic African Catfish. The fish species is known to survive in even poor
conditions like wet mud and sludge. It is also reported to be unhealthy for human consumption. Thai
Magur is not a native species of India. It is an invasive species from Africa. It is carnivorous and known
for feeding on native fish species and decimating their populations. Studies reported that 70% of drop in
native fish species’ population is because of these Magurs. The National Green Tribunal had banned the
farming of Thai Magur in 2000. The central government had banned the transportation, breeding and
sale of the invasive species the same year. However, the species continue to be cultivated for their
adaptability, taste and high growth rates.
8. NRI Sabha, which was recently making news, is an NGO controlled by which state government?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Haryana
[C] Punjab
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Answer: Punjab
After a lag of 5 years, the elections to the post of president of NRI Sabha Punjab is to be held. Only
members of the NRI Sabha can vote in the election of the president. The NRI Sabha is an NGO controlled
by the Punjab government. Any NRI can become its member by paying a fee of 10,500 INR. The body has
about 23,000 members across the world. Only the members of the NRI Sabha have a right to contest in
the elections. Participation in the voting is also reserved for the members. The upcoming elections have
been due since 2017. The NRI Sabha was registered under the Societies Act in 1998. The president of
the NRI Sabha does not have any legal authority. The office bearers of the Sabha also do not have legal
authority. Their function is to take up issues concerning NRIs with ambassadors of different countries.
They can also push for speeding up government works concerning NRIs.
9. The term “JavaScript sniffers”, that was making news recently, is associated with__?
[A] Authorization Software
[B] Malware
[C] Encryption Software

[D] Firewall
Answer: Malware
A Singapore based cybersecurity firm reported that 98% of credit card data being sold on the dark web
are of Indian customers and highlighted the use of JS sniffers. JS sniffers or JavaScript sniffers are
specialized malwares that are used by cybercriminals for stealing sensitive credit card information. A
recent report by Singapore based Group IB highlighted the growing use of these softwares by
cybercriminals. The stolen information is then being sold on the dark web.
10. What is Ethnologue, that was recently making news?
[A] Database of Languages
[B] Database of Heritage Buildings
[C] Database of local customs
[D] Database of Tribes
Answer: Database of Languages
The 23rd edition of the Ethnologue- the world’s largest language database was released in light of the
@upsc_thoughts
International Mother Language Day, celebrated on February 21st. ‘Ethnologue: Languages of the World’
is an annual publication that serves as the largest database on the languages of the world. The 23rd
edition was recently published in light of the International Mother Language Day celebration. It is mainly
used by linguists for research and also by students. Ethnologue is published by a non-profit
organization, SIL International which is based in the USA. It is being published since 1951. The main
objective of the publication is to document the world languages and promote literacy. The introduction
of hard paywall has affected the use by researchers according to reports.
Quiz:27-Feb-20
1. The Consumer Protection Act 2019, which is to come into force from April, 2020, makes provisions
related to “class action suits”. This suit can be invoked to__?
[A] Sue many producers of same product
[B] Recall an entire batch of faulty products
[C] Sue entire management team of the producers of faulty products
[D] Claim damages for an entire group of consumers of faulty product
Answer: Recall an entire batch of faulty products
In April, 2020, consumers in India will be able to initiate class-action lawsuits and also opt for mediation
under the new Consumer Protection Act 2019, which gives legal teeth to claims for damages over
defective products or poor services. A class action suit is a legal tool that enables an individual
complaint of a faulty product/service to be treated as an ‘interest group’ of other people in similar
circumstances. The suit can be invoked to recall an entire batch of faulty products based on one
complaint. If one lot of an item has a common defect, a single complaint can trigger its recall through
‘class action’.
2. After initially dropping shooting and archery from Commonwealth Games, 2022, it has been recently
decided that these two sports will be included and will be organized and funded in India as a part of
Birmingham Commonwealth Games, 2022. What is the venue of these two sports in India?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Chandigarh
[C] Bengaluru
[D] Hyderabad
Answer: Chandigarh

India had threatened to boycott the Games after shooting and archery were initially dropped. However,
final approval was recently given by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) to include these
sports. The Commonwealth archery and shooting championships will be held in Chandigarh in January
2022. Medals won will be added to the final tally of participating nations at the Birmingham
Commonwealth Games to be held from July 27 to August 7 that year.
3. In which city, India’s Central Vista project, that was recently in news, is coming up?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Mumbai
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Bengaluru
Answer: New Delhi
Central Vista is an ambitious plan that includes setting up of a new Parliament building, bringing all
central ministries closer, and redeveloping the existing heritage structures in and around the central
vista. Under the project, eight new government office buildings, a new Parliament House and a
@upsc_thoughts
residential complex near the South Block that could house the homes of the Prime Minister and the Vice-
President are among the projects that may come.
4. Which of the following African countries has been recently listed in the FATF’s grey list?
[A] Gabon
[B] Algeria
[C] Kenya
[D] Mauritius
Answer: Mauritius
Mauritius, long considered a tax haven, has been listed in the FATF’s grey list. This has raised questions
about the fate of FPI from Mauritius in India.
5. Who heads the IRDAI committee looking into issue of indemnity based health insurance products for life
insurance companies?
[A] D Rajkumar
[B] Pravin Kumar Purwar
[C] Pradosh Kumar Rath
[D] MR Kumar
Answer: MR Kumar
The insurance regulator IRDAI has set up a committee to examine whether life insurers can offer
indemnity based health policies. IRDAI has now set up a nine-member committee led by MR Kumar,
Chairman, Life Insurance Corporation of India to look into the issue.
6. For the first time, which of the following supranational banks has listed Masala Bonds in the Global
Securities Market?
[A] World Bank
[B] Asian Development Bank
[C] Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
[D] African Development Bank
Answer: Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
In a first, supranational institution Asian Development Bank, has listed its 10-year ₹-850 crore Masala
bond on the Global Securities Market (GSM) of the India International Exchange at GIFT City. Asian
Development Bank’s Masala bonds are dual listed at both Luxembourg and India INX.

7. What is the current number of members in the BIMSTEC grouping?
[A] 5
[B] 6
[C] 7
[D] 8
Answer: 7
BIMSTEC is a regional grouping with seven countries from South and Southeast Asia including
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. It aims to promote regional
cooperation for rapid economic development.
8. In which year, the MoU to establish the ‘BIMSTEC grid interconnection’ was signed between the members
of BIMSTEC countries?
[A] 2016
[B] 2017
[C] 2018
@upsc_thoughts
[D] 2019
Answer: 2018
Recently, BIMSTEC and South Asia Regional Initiative for Energy Integration jointly organized the
conference titled ‘Increase Cooperation in the Energy Sector in BIMSTEC Region.’ The BIMSTEC
members are planning for a 3000 km BIMSTEC power grid called BIMSTEC grid interconnection. The
MoU was signed in 2018.
9. The proposed Santusht app is for the beneficiaries of which scheme?
[A] National Saving Certificates Scheme
[B] Employees State Insurance (ESI) scheme
[C] PMKISAN
[D] None of them
Answer: Employees State Insurance (ESI) scheme
Labour Ministry will soon launch a mobile app ‘Santusht’ with an aim to address issues of beneficiaries
of Employees State Insurance (ESI) scheme. The minister informed about bringing ‘Santusht’ mobile app
for the benefit of ESI beneficiaries very soon at Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)
foundation day celebration function in the capital on Monday, a labour ministry statement said.
10. Antihydrogen, which was recently in news, is composed of __?
[A] Positron and proton
[B] Nuetron and proton
[C] Positron and Antiproton
[D] Neutrino and Neutron
Answer: Positron and Antiproton
Antihydrogen is the antimatter counterpart of hydrogen. Whereas the common hydrogen atom is
composed of an electron and proton, the antihydrogen atom is made up of a positron and antiproton.
Quiz:28-Feb-20
1. As of 2020, the largest cricket stadium of the world is located in which country?
[A] Australia
[B] India
[C] South Africa
[D] New Zealand
Answer: India
Sardar Patel Stadium located in Ahmedabad (Gujarat) also called as the Motera Stadium is the largest
cricket stadium of the world and the second largest stadium in the World, after the Rungrado May Day
Stadium of North Korea.
The reconstruction work of the Sardar Patel Stadium started in the year 2016. US President Donald
Trump jointly addressed the ‘Namaste Trump’ event with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the newly
renovated Stadium
2. Which country organised a training course on ‘Vessel Search Technique’ for Indian Coast Guard and
Customs personnel at Chennai?
[A] Japan
[B] Australia
[C] Oman
[D] Qatar
Answer: Australia
@upsc_thoughts
The Mobile Training Team of the Australian Border Force conducted the training course on ‘Vessel
Search Technique’ for the personnel of Indian Coast Guard, Customs and Coastal Security Group
members of the Tamil Nadu Police.
Indian Coast Guard organised this training course at the capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, along with the
Border Force of Australia.
3. Which city hosted the four-day ‘International Conference on Banana’ organised by ICAR?
[A] Gandhi Nagar
[B] Tiruchirappalli
[C] Cochin
[D] Thiruvananthapuram
Answer: Tiruchirappalli
A four-day ‘International Conference on Banana’ was recently organised by the National Research Centre
for Banana (NRCB), an institution under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), in
association with Bioversity International, during 22-25 February, 2020.
ICAR’s National Research Centre for Banana is based at Tiruchirappali, Tamil Nadu. The Conference is
organised at Tiruchirappalli on the theme of ‘Innovations in sustainable production and value chain
management in banana’.
4. Which Indian PSU is set to acquire the government’s entire stake in THDC India and North Eastern Electric
Power Corporation Ltd (NEEPCO)?
[A] NTPC Limited
[B] Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
[C] Power Grid Corporation of India Limited
[D] NHPC Limited
Answer: NTPC Limited
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) recently permitted the Maharatna PSU NTPC Limited to
acquire the government’s entire stake in THDC India and North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Ltd
(NEEPCO).
NTPC will acquire 100 per cent of the issued and paid-up share capital of the NEEPCO and 74.5 per cent
in THDC India, the rest of which is held by Uttar Pradesh state government.
5. ‘5G Hackathon’ was recently launched by which Union Ministry/ organisation?

[A] NITI Aayog
[B] Ministry of Science and Technology
[C] Ministry of Communication
[D] Ministry of Human Resource and Development
Answer: Ministry of Communication
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) of the Ministry of Communication has recently launched
‘5G Hackathon’ in association with government and industry stakeholders.
The Hackathon aims to convert new ideas into feasible 5-G products and solutions in the country. All
students, start-ups, SMEs, academic institutions and registered companies in India and even NRIs can
participate in the event.
6. Which is the only Indian company to feature in the Fortune’s ‘Top-20 Big Companies to Work For’ list in
2020?
[A] Infosys
[B] Tata Consultancy Services
@upsc_thoughts
[C] Zoho
[D] Zomato
Answer: Tata Consultancy Services
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been selected as one of the Fortune’s Best Big Companies to Work
For in the year 2020. It is also the only Indian firm to feature in the Top 20 list.
Great Place to Work, an international workplace-culture expert conducted the survey from 33,000
employees at the certified organisations across the US.
7. The two species of birds- ‘Red Throated Thrush and Plumbeous Water Redstart’ were recently found in
which state/UT?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Ladakh
[D] Lakshadweep
Answer: Ladakh
The Great Backyard Bird count exercise was recently carried out by the Wildlife Conservation and Birds
Club of Ladakh. During the exercise, two new bird species namely ‘Red Throated Thrush and Plumbeous
Water Redstart’ have been found for the first time in Ladakh Region.
Bird and wildlife experts have counted and recorded a total of 87 different species of birds in Ladakh.
8. Which city was the venue of “Microsoft Future Decoded – CEO Summit”?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Mumbai
[C] Chennai
[D] Gurugram
Answer: Mumbai
Technology- Major Microsoft hosted its “Microsoft Future Decoded – CEO Summit” in Mumbai on
February 24. The summit was attended by leaders of different fields.
The gathering was addressed by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, during his three-day visit to India. Nadella
also attended the ‘Microsoft Future Decoded – Tech Summit’ held at Bengaluru on February 25.
9. Abhay Kumar Singh has been appointed as the Chairman & Managing Director of which Indian PSU?
[A] NTPC Limited

[B] Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
[C] NHPC Limited
[D] Power Grid Corporation of India Limited
Answer: NHPC Limited
Abhay Kumar Singh has been recently appointed as the Chairman & Managing Director of the Indian PSU,
NHPC Limited.
He has assumed the charge of Chairman and Managing Director of the company on February 24, 2020
and will serve till the date of his superannuation. Abhay Kumar has replaced Ratish Kumar who held
additional charge of the post of Chairman & Managing Director.
10. The First anniversary of the launch of which welfare scheme was observed on February 24?
[A] Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY)
[B] Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
[C] Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM)
[D] Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Maan-dhan Yojana
@upsc_thoughts
Answer: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)

The First anniversary of the launch of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme was
recently observed on February 24, 2020.
PM-KISAN is a Central Sector scheme with 100% funding from Government of India. Under the Scheme
an annual income support of Rs.6000 is provided to all farmer families across the country in three equal
instalments of Rs.2000.
Quiz:29-Feb-20
1. Which aircraft carrier launched freighter services to assist shrimp farmers?
[A] Alliance Air
[B] IndiGo
[C] SpiceJet
[D] Vistara
Answer: SpiceJet
Leading Indian aircraft carrier SpiceJet launched freighter services from Chennai and Vishakhapatnam
to Surat and Kolkata, to assist the transportation of shrimp seeds.
The air cargo arm of SpiceJet called SpiceXpress, will use the Boeing 737 freighter with a 21-tonne
carrying capacity will be used in the transportation. This is the first such effort in the proposed routes. In
the recent budget, a similar service called ‘Krishi Udaan’ was proposed.
2. Bob Iger, who recently tendered his resignation, was the Chief Executive Officer of which global firm for
15 years?
[A] Walt Disney Company
[B] Netflix
[C] Warner Bros
[D] Pixar
Answer: Walt Disney Company
The Chief Executive Officer of the Walt Disney Company commonly called as Disney, Bob Iger recently
tendered his resignation.
He has served as the CEO of the US-based multi-national mass-media company from 2005. Under his
leadership, the company successfully purchased Star Wars, Marvel and Fox’s entertainment businesses.
Bob Chapek is to replace Iger as the next CEO. Iger will be the executive chairman till 31 December

2021.
3. As of 2020, what is the Foreign Direct investment (FDI) limit, allowed in insurance intermediaries?
[A] 0%
[B] 26%
[C] 49%
[D] 100%
Answer: 100%
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recently notified that 100 per cent
FDI is allowed in insurance intermediaries under automatic approval route.
The FDI policy earlier allowed 49 per cent foreign investment in the insurance sector, including insurance
intermediaries. Intermediary services comprise of insurance brokers, re-insurance brokers, insurance
consultants, third party administrators, loss assessors etc.
4. What is the name of the new satellite, scheduled to be launched by the ISRO on March 5, 2020?
[A] GISAT-1
@upsc_thoughts
[B] GISAT-3
[C] GISAT-7
[D] GISAT-11
Answer: GISAT-1
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that geo imaging satellite, GISAT-1 will be
launched on March 5.
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F10) will launch the satellite from Satish Dhawan
Space Centre in Sriharikota. The 2275-kg world-class earth observation satellite GISAT-1 will be placed
in the geosynchronous transfer orbit.
5. Hosni Mubarak, who recently passed away, was the former President of which country?
[A] Greece
[B] Egypt
[C] France
[D] Libya
Answer: Egypt
The former of Egypt President Mohammed Hosni Mubarak, passed away recently at the age of 91. He
was the President of the country for nearly 30 years.
Mubarak was a former Chief of the country’s Air Force. After he became the Vice President of Egypt in
1981, he assumed power as the President after his predecessor Anwar Sadat was assassinated. After
huge protests, Mubarak was forced to step down in 2011.
6. As per the new agreement signed by the Container Corporation of India (Concor) and RZD Logistics JSC
(Russian Railways), cargos are to be transported through which country?
[A] Pakistan
[B] Afghanistan
[C] Iran
[D] Uzbekistan
Answer: Iran
Container Corporation of India (Concor) and RZD Logistics JSC (Russian Railways) recently signed a
service agreement for transporting cargo between India and Russia using a single invoice.
The containers will move between the two countries by using the International North South Transport

Corridor (INSTC), which passes through Iran. The corridor also passes through Azerbaijan.
7. Suella Braverman, an Indian-origin minister recently sworn in as the Attorney General of which country?
[A] United States
[B] United Kingdom
[C] New Zealand
[D] Finland
Indian-origin minister Suella Braverman recently sworn in as the Attorney General of the United Kingdom.
She was appointed by the new British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, after he reshuffled his cabinet.
Suella is only the second female to be appointed in the crucial role and she is also the first female
Attorney General to be appointed by a Conservative Party government.
8. Which country is the first to develop an antibody test to identify the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)?
[A] China
[B] United States
@upsc_thoughts
[C] Singapore
[D] South Korea
Answer: Singapore
The Singapore Ministry of Health announced that an antibody test has been developed by the country’s
medical school and it has successfully identified two people, who were infected by the novel
coronavirus (COVID-19).
The currently used molecular test detects the viral genetic material in oral swab samples whereas the
newly developed test detects antibodies developed by the immune system when infected with the virus.
9. As per the recent ‘Hurun Global Rich List 2020’, which country has the highest number of billionaires?
[A] United States
[B] China
[C] Russia
[D] India
Answer: China
As per the recently released ‘Hurun Global Rich List 2020’, China is home to the highest number of
billionaires of the world.
The report placed Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos in the top rank, who possesses wealth
amounting to $140 bn. Microsoft Founder Bill Gates is in the third spot, while Mukesh Ambani was
placed in the 9th place with $67 bn. He is the only Indian to feature in the Top-10 list and he is the
richest in Asia.
10. ‘Higher Education Leadership Development Programme for Administrator’ is a programme launched of
Union Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[B] Ministry of Human Resource Development
[C] Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
[D] Ministry of MSME
Answer: Ministry of Human Resource Development
The Union Minister for Human Resource Development, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank recently launched
a programme called ‘Higher Education Leadership Development Programme for Administrator’.
It is a joint initiative of University Grants Commission (UGC) and British Council under the support of UK

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