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  • W.B.C.S Current Affairs 14 July 2018 to 20 July 2018
    Posted on August 7th, 2018 in Weekly Current Affairs
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    W.B.C.S Current Affairs 14 July 2018 to 20 July 2018

    The Importance of Current Affairs in W.B.C.S examinations is immense.Success inW.B.C.S  Prelims and W.B.C.S Mains Exam is mainly subjected to how well an aspirant is aware of the important current affairs. Preparation of current affairs for W.B.C.S is the key to unlock the exam.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 14 July 2018 to 20 July 2018.

    1) India and United States (US) at the Homeland Security Dialogue have resolved to enhance bilateral cooperation in areas, including counter-terrorism, immigration and aviation security. For this dialogue, Indian delegation was led by Additional Secretary in Home Ministry Rajni Sekhri Sibal, while US side was led by James McCament, Deputy Under Secretary, Department of Homeland Security. Key Facts: The recent talks between both countries in dialogue focused on issues relating to security cooperation, customs and immigration, aviation security, capacity building. Both countries are in process of firming up list of terror fugitives and have agreed on names of individuals for global entry programme (GEP) under Homeland Security Presidential Directive-6 (HSPD-6) Agreement. The HSPD-6 agreement allows sharing of terror-related information, while GEP exempts prominent citizens from immigration checks. US has already finalised such agreements with 30 countries. Background: India-United States cooperation in matters related to counter-terror initiatives and intelligence sharing is part of the dialogue. Both sides have agreed to work out modalities to address these issues. There have been several rounds of discussions between interlocutors of two countries in past two year and both sides have narrowed down their differences on several key issues on sharing of data on militants.

    2) Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved implementation of Centrally Sponsored-Scheme for completion of 83 minor irrigation projects and 8 major or medium irrigation projects in Maharashtra’s drought prone areas of Vidharbha, Marathawada regions. Key Facts: The special package aims to create additional potential of 3.77 lakh hectares in these drought prone areas. It will ensure assured source of water to farmers in command area of these projects. This will increase yield of their crops and thereby increase the income of the farmers. The projects included under special package will be funded under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana- Accelerated Irrigation Benefit Programme (PMKSY-AIBP) and are planned to be completed by December 2019. Progress of projects will be monitored by State as well as Central Water Commission (CWC). The overall balance cost of projects is estimated to be Rs. 13,651.61 crore. Central Assistance for implementation of these projects will be Rs. 3,831.41 crore and rest will be provided by State Government which may be arranged through NABARD (National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development). Benefits: On completion of these projects, utilization of irrigation potential of about 3.77 lakh ha will transform agriculture scenario of these drought prone region resulting in generation of substantially more employment opportunities through increase in cropping intensity, change in cropping pattern, agro processing and other ancillary activities. It will result employment generation of approximately 341 lakh man-days for unskilled, semi-skilled and skilled workers. Background: Maharashtra has experienced hydrological and agricultural drought during three years period from 2012 to 2016. The situation was worst in Vidharbha and Marathawada region with high incidence rate of suicides by farmers. Besides, these regions, drought prone areas (DPA) in rest of the state also had experienced distress in recent years. These irrigation projects are ongoing projects, but they were languishing due to fund constraints.

    3) Parliament has passed State Banks (Repeal and Amendment) Bill, 2017 to merge six subsidiary banks with State Bank of India after it was approved by Rajya Sabha. The bill already has been passed in Lok Sabha in 2017 Monsoon session of Parliament. Key Features of Bill: The bill repeals two Acts namely State Bank of India (Subsidiary Banks) Act, 1959, and State Bank of Hyderabad Act, 1956. These two acts had established State Bank of Bikaner, State Bank of Patiala, State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of Hyderabad and State Bank of Travancore. These banks were subsidiaries of SBI. By repealing these two acts, five subsidiary banks will be merged with SBI. The bill also seeks to amend State Bank of India (SBI) Act, 1955 to remove references to subsidiary banks and powers of SBI to act as an agent of the RBI for subsidiary banks. Background: The Union Cabinet in February 2017 had approved merger of five associate banks along with Bharatiya Mahila Bank with SBI. The purposes of merger were rationalisation of public bank resources, reduction of costs, better profitability, lower cost of funds leading to better rate of interest for public at large and improve productivity and customer service of the public service banks. After the acquisition by SBI, the subsidiaries banks ceased to exist and, therefore, it was necessary to repeal two Acts. The merger had made SBI one of 50 biggest banks of world.

    4) Union Cabinet has approved to grant Special Remission to Prisoners as part of commemoration of 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi to be observed in 2019. This decision is considered as befitting commemoration and homage to father of nation and humanitarian values Mahatma Gandhi stood for. Following five categories of prisoners will be considered for special remission: Women and Transgender convicts: 55 years of age and above and who have completed 50% of their actual sentence period. Male convicts: 60 years of age and above and who have completed 50% of their actual sentence period. Physically challenged/disabled convicts: They will convicts with 70% disability and more and who have completed 50% of their actual sentence period. Terminally ill convicts. Convicted prisoners who have completed two-third (66%) of their actual sentence period. In pursuance of this decision, Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) will issue advice to all States and UTs asking them to process cases of eligible prisoners based on above five categories. State Governments will place recommendations of Committee before Governor for consideration and approval under Article 161 of the Constitution. After the approval, prisoners will be released three phases. In Phase-l, prisoners will be released on 2nd October, 2018 (i.e. on birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi), in Phase-ll prisoners will be released on 10th April 2019 (anniversary of Champaran Satyagrah) and in Phase-Ill on 2nd October 2019 (birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi). Special remission under this consideration will not be given to prisoners who have been convicted for offence for which sentence is of death or death sentence commuted to life imprisonment; cases of convicts involved in serious and heinous crimes like rape, human trafficking, dowry death and convicted under UAPA, POTA, TADA, FICN, POCSO Act, FEMA, Money Laundering, NDPS, Prevention of Corruption Act, etc.

    5) Union Finance Ministry is planning to infuse additional capital close to Rs 11,336 crore in 5 more public sector banks (PSBs) by September 2018-end. These five state-owned banks are Punjab National Bank (PNB), Corporation Bank, Andhra Bank, Allahabad Bank and Indian Overseas Bank (IOB). Key Facts: This round of capital infusion will be done through issuance of recapitalisation bonds and not directly from Budget. This additional capital will help these banks to meet minimum regulatory capital adequacy ratio (CAR) and enable them to make interest payments on certain bonds on time. Within capital infusion plan of these five PSBs, PNB is expected to get highest amount of Rs 2,816 crore. Corporation Bank is will get Rs 2,555 crore followed by Indian Overseas Bank (Rs 2157 crore), Andhra Bank (Rs 2,019 crore) and Allahabad Bank (Rs 1,790 crore). This capital infusion by Government will be only for purpose of meeting minimum regulatory requirement and will be not growth capital which will be provided in second half of current fiscal year. The growth capital will only be given to those banks which meet performance targets and modalities set by Finance Ministry as per agreement signed with each bank. Background: The latest round capital infusion in these 5 PSBs will be part of remaining Rs 65,000 crore out of Rs 2.11 lakh crore capital infusion announced by Union Government for two financial years. In October 2017, Union Government had announced Rs 2.11 lakh crore capital infusion programme, under which PSBs were to get Rs 1.35 lakh crore through recapitalisation bonds, and balance Rs 58,000 crore through raising of capital from market and remaining through budgetary support. The government has already infused Rs 80,000 crore out of Rs 1.35 lakh crore through recapitalisation bonds in PSBs and balance will be done during this financial year (2018-19).

    6) Lok Sabha has passed The Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Second Amendment) Bill, 2017 to abolish the ‘no detention policy’ in schools. The Bill amends the Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education Act, 2009. The Act was having provision of no detention policy i.e. no child can be held back in any class until completion of elementary school (classes 1-8). Key Features of Bill: The Bill amends provision related to no detention policy in the parent Act to empower central or state government to allow schools to hold back child in class 5, class 8, or in both classes. It mandates conducting, regular examination in class 5 and class 8 at end of every academic year. In case, child fails class 5, class 8 examinations, he will be given additional instruction and opportunity for a re-examination (within two months from the declaration of the result). If child fails again in re-examination, he may be held back in class 5, class 8, or in both classes. The Bill empowers Union and State governments to decide whether to not hold back child in any class till completion of elementary education. Further, Union or State governments will decide manner and conditions subject to which child may be held back.

    7) Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP) of sugarcane for sugar season 2018-19 keeping in view the interest of sugarcane farmers. It was approved based on the recommendation of Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). CCEA has hiked Rs. 20 per quintal in the FRP of sugarcane at Rs. 275 per quintal for basic recovery rate of 10%. It is higher by 77.42% over production cost and ensures that farmers gets return of more than 50 % over their production cost. Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP): The FRP is the minimum price that sugar mills have to pay to sugarcane farmers. It is determined on basis of recommendations of Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) and after consultation with State Governments and other stake-holders. The final FRP is arrived by taking into account various factors such as cost of production, domestic and international prices, overall demand-supply situation,inter-crop price parity, terms of trade prices of primary by-products and its impact on general price level and resource use efficiency. Background: The sugar sector is an important agro-based sector in Indian agricultural economy that impacts livelihood of about 5 crore sugarcane farmers and their dependents. It also employs around 5 lakh workers directly in sugar mills, apart from those employed in various ancillary activities including farm labour and transportation.

    8) Union Cabinet approves proposal of Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) to make district magistrates (DMs), instead of courts, the final authority for approving adoptions. In this regard, Ministry of WCD will introduce bill to amend Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 to make district magistrates and collectors competent officers for approving adoptions, instead of courts. Key Facts: The courts are overburdened and take long time to approve adoptions. The changing of final authority for approving adoptions aims to reduce number of adoption cases pending in courts for years. Since, DMs have information about adoption cases and have access to all departments, it is easier for DMS to get the documents and act faster. Besides, DMs are also in-charge of the child custody authority and have all information about the child.

    9) The Union Cabinet has approved the signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) amongst BRICS Nations (viz. Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) on Regional Aviation Partnership Cooperation. The objective of MoU is to benefit BRICS countries from establishing of institutional framework to cooperate in field of civil aviation. Key Facts: The MoU signifies important landmark in civil aviation relations between India and other BRICS member states. It has potential to spur greater trade, investment, tourism and cultural exchanges amongst BRICS Nations. The areas of cooperation under MoU are public policies and best practices in regional services; airport infrastructure management and air navigation services; regional airports; technical cooperation between regulatory agencies; innovation; environment sustainability; deliberation of global initiatives; Qualification and Training and other fields as mutually determined.

    10) Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) has issued draft amendments to Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989, making Vehicle Tracking System device and FASTags mandatory for all commercial vehicles obtaining national permit. Proposed amendments: FASTags: It makes mandatory for vehicles to affix sticker confirming fitting of the Fastag in front wind screen of vehicles. National Permit (N/P): It stipulates additional conditions for obtaining national permit. It also includes display of words ‘National Permit or N/P’ in front and rear of vehicles in bold letters. N/P will have to be inscribed on rear and left side incase of trailers. Tanker carrying dangerous or hazardous goods: Its body has to be painted in white colour and display prescribed class label on both sides and rear of tanker. It should be also affixed with reflective tapes at front and rear. Fitness certification: It will be not required at time of registration of new transport vehicles sold as fully built vehicles. Such vehicles will be deemed to be having certificate of fitness for a period of two years from the date of registration. Fitness certificate of transport vehicles will be renewed for period of two years for vehicles up to eight years old and for one year for vehicles older than eight years. Digital Certificates: Henceforth, pollution under control certificates and driving license can be carried in physical or digital form. Goods carrying vehicles: They will be required to carry goods in closed body of the vehicle or container. In case it is necessary to carry goods in open bodies, then goods will be covered by using tarpaulin or any other suitable material. Goods of indivisible nature, not capable of being carried in a closed body or being covered, may be carried without cover. Load Carrying Capacity: The gross vehicle weight (GVW) for two-axle truck (two wheels in front axle and four wheels in the rear) has been raised from 16.2 tonnes to 18.5 tonnes, for three-axle trucks it has been increased from 25 tonnes to 28.5 tonnes; and for five-axle trucks from 37 tonnes to 43.5 tonnes. This will help reduce transportation (logistic) cost and consequently, commodity prices. Overloading is very rampant which will be stopped to an extent along with corruption.

    11) UN Environment Programme (UNEP) has entered into partnership with search engine giant Google to monitor impacts of human activity on global ecosystems by using sophisticated online tools. The partnership was launched during High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development at United Nations (UN) headquarters in New York. Key Facts: The aim of the partnership is to develop platform to enable governments, NGO’s and public to track specific environment-related development targets with user-friendly Google front-end. Its initial focus will be on freshwater ecosystems including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers and lakes. Freshwater ecosystems areas account for 0.01% of world’s water but provide habitat for almost 10% of world’s known species and evidence suggests a rapid loss of freshwater biodiversity. Google will periodically produce geospatial maps and data on water-related ecosystems by employing massive parallel Cloud computing technology. It will generate satellite imagery and statistics to assess extent of change occurring to waterbodies and make it freely accessible to ensure nations have opportunity to track changes, prevent and reverse ecosystem loss. Other areas of collaboration under this partnership include advocacy and capacity building activities as well as the development of partnerships with organisations like European Space Agency (ESA), European Commission’s Joint Research Centre (JRC) and National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Significance: This partnership builds on a common shared vision between these organisations. In long term, it will strive to establish platform for open-source data and analysis of UN Sustainable Development Goals. It will enable UNEP to get access to most sophisticated online tools to track progress, identify priority areas for action, and needs for making world sustainable. It will enable all countries with equal access to latest technology and information in support of global climate action and sustainable development. United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP): UNEP is the voice for the environment within the United Nations system. It was founded as result of United Nations Conference on Human Environment in June 1972. It is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya. UNEP also has six regional offices and various country offices. UNEP acts as catalyst, advocate, educator and facilitator to promote wise use and sustainable development of global environment. It works with wide range of partners, including UN entities, international organizations, national governments, non-governmental organizations, private sector and civil society.

    12) Stock exchange major Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has secured image trademark for its iconic building, Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers located on Dalal Street in Mumbai, Maharashtra under Trade Marks Act, 1999. With this, Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers joins elite club of distinguished structures around the world that have secured trademark rights. Significance: Henceforth no one can use images of the Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers for commercial purposes without consent from BSE or paying it licensing fee. Violators are liable to be prosecuted under Trade Marks Act, 1999. Key Facts: BSE’s Phiroze Jeejeebhoy Towers serves as barometer of Indian economy. It is 28-floor building and was bulit almost 10 years, completed in 1980. At the time of its completion, it was the tallest building in India. Initially it was known as BSE Towers and was later renamed after late chairman of BSE, Sir Phiroze Jamshedji Jeejeebhoy. BSE was founded in 1875. It began as small group of brokers who functioned under a banyan tree on Dalal Street. Trademark: Trademark refers to graphical representation of goods or services to make it distinguishable from others. It can be words, symbols, sound, colours, shape of goods, graphics representation or packaging etc. It protects owner against unfair competition, prevents damage to reputation of owner and consumer welfare. In India, trademarks are governed under Trademarks Act, 1999 ( it deals with precise nature of rights one can acquire in respect of trademarks), under aegis of Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce. The implementing body is Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trademarks. Mumbai’s Taj Mahal Palace hotel was first building in India to acquire image trademark under Trademark Act of 1999 in June 2017. Other iconic structures (builings) in the world that have received trademarks are Empire State Building, New York, USA; Eiffel Tower, Paris, France; Opera House, Sydney, Australia etc.

    13) UK Space Agency has selected site at Sutherland on A’Mhoine peninsula on north coast of Scotland for its first spaceport to launch rockets vertically and put satellites in orbit. For development of this spaceport, UK Government is going to provide $3.3 million funding and will be built with help of consortium of companies. Key Facts: A’Mhoine Peninsula in Sutherland was chosen as most suitable place from which to launch rockets vertically. The first rocket launches from this spaceport are planned for early 2020s. The site was selected in part due to its beneficial geography. Rockets can take direct path from tip of Scottish peninsula to above Arctic Circle. This is suitable for launching small satellites particularly, which are often placed in polar orbits, circling Earth and passing over Arctic and Antarctic. It is located on coast in sparsely populated area, thus in case of failures rocket will harmlessly fall into the ocean or empty land. Comment: The spaceport will help UK to grab slice of growing market for small satellite launches. UK already has many component and satellite makers and adding ability to launch satellites locally would increase its international appeal. The spaceport will help to attract $5 billion spaceflight market into UK’s economy over the next decade. In recent years, new breed of small satellites (nano satellites) have created boom in space launch industry. These satellites are often size of shoebox or smaller and far more technologically capable than older, larger models. They are cheaper to launch and can be put to range of uses from communications to weather monitoring to scientific experiments. It’s estimated that global market for such launches (including supporting infrastructure) is currently worth $339 billion, and will grow eightfold by 2045 to $2.7 trillion.

    14) European Union (EU) and Japan have signed Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA). It was signed at EU-Japan summit in Tokyo by EU Presidents Jean-Claude Juncker and Donald Tusk and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. It is biggest ever trade deal negotiated by the EU and creates free trade zone covering nearly third of the world’s GDP. Key Parts of EPA: Agricultural exports: It scraps Japanese duties on many cheeses such as Gouda and Cheddar as well as on wine exports. It allows EU to increase its beef exports to Japan and duty-free trade in pork, processed meat and almost duty-free trade for fresh meat. It ensures protection in Japan of more than 200 high-quality European agricultural products, so called Geographical Indications (GIs), and protection of selection of Japanese GIs in EU. Services markets: EPA opens up services markets, in particular financial services, e-commerce, telecommunications and transport. Procurement markets: It guarantees EU companies access to large procurement markets of 48 large Japanese cities and removes obstacles to procurement in economically important railway sector at national level. Automotive sector: It addresses specific sensitivities of EU in this sector and elimination of customs duties in transition periods of up to 7 years. Trade and sustainable development: EPA includes comprehensive chapter on it. It sets very high standards of labour, safety, environmental and consumer protection. It strengthens EU and Japan’s commitments on sustainable development and climate change and fully safeguards public services. Data protection: The negotiations completed by both sides on this matter will complement EPA. Both sides recognise each other’s data protection systems as equivalent, allowing data to flow safely between EU and Japan and creating world’s largest area of safe data flows. Significance: EPA removes vast majority of €1 billion of duties paid annually by EU companies exporting to Japan and number of long-standing regulatory barriers, for example on cars. It opens up Japanese market of 127 million consumers to key EU agricultural exports and will increase EU export opportunities in range of other sectors. In addition, it will strengthen cooperation between Europe and Japan in range of areas, reaffirm their shared commitment to sustainable development. It also includes for the first time a specific commitment to the Paris climate agreement.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 14 July 2018 to 20 July 2018.

    15) All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and IIT (Indian Institute of Technology)-Delhi have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to enhance research in the field of Ayurveda. The MoU was signed on sidelines of two-day conference on ‘Raising towards Excellence’ held at New Delhi. Key Facts: As of part of MoU, AIIA will invite technological experts from IIT Delhi for research in ancient Indian medicine. IIT Delhi does not have medical facility and has lined up 10 projects in Ayurveda research. It was the idea of Ministry of AYUSH to utilize technological expertise of IIT Delhi for further research in ancient Indian medicine. It is also planning to invite professionals and representatives from IIMs (Indian Institutes of Management) to develop leadership skills that are necessary for gaining global recognition. All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA): Delhi based AIIA is apex institute for Ayurveda in the country under Ministry of AYUSH. It aims at bringing a synergy between traditional wisdom of Ayurveda and modern tools and technology. It offers postgraduate and doctoral courses in various disciplines of Ayurveda and focuses on fundamental research of Ayurveda, drug development, quality control, standardization, safety evaluation and scientific validation of Ayurvedic medicine. It also has 200 bed referral hospital for facilitating clinical research.

    16) Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved renewal of appointment of Prof Anil D Sahasrabudhe as the chairman of the All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE) till he attains the age of 65 years. He was joined AICTE as Chairman in July 2015. Anil D Sahasrabudhe: Prof Sahasrabudhe has in his illustrious career of over 30 years and has held several important academic, research and administrative positions. He had graduated from BVB College of Engineering and Technology, Hubli affiliated to Karnataka University in Mechanical Engineering in 1980 with first rank and Gold medal. Subsequently, he obtained Master’s and Doctoral (with UGC Fellowship) degrees from Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru in 1982 and 1989 respectively. Prior to his appointment as AICTE chairman he was professor of Mechanical Engineering at Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Guwahati, AICTE: AICTE is a statutory body established in November 1945. It comes under the aegis of Department of Higher Education, Ministry of Human Resources Development. It is a national-level council for technical education responsible for planning and coordination of technical education and management of education system in the country. It accredits graduate and post graduate programs at Indian institutions.

    17) Western Railway renamed Elphinstone Road suburban railway station in Mumbai, Maharashtra to Prabhadevi Station. The station code of Prabhadevi station will be PBHD. The station was initially named after Lord Elphinstone, who was Governor of Bombay Presidency from 1853 to 1860. It has now been renamed in honour of local deity Prabhadevi. Background: Prabhadevi is name of the area in the vicinity of the station. It also derives its name from the temple of the deity which is 300 years old. In December 2017, Maharashtra legislature had approved Bill to rename Elphinstone Road station, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (CST) and Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport. The central government had given its nod for renaming in May 2017.

    18) DRDO has successfully test-fired supersonic cruise missile under extreme weather conditions, as part of the service life extension programme for Indian Army. The missile was fired from a mobile autonomous launcher from the Integrated Test Range at Balasore, Odisha. Key Facts: During the test missile followed designated trajectory and its key components functioned perfectly. It again proved its all-weather capability, flying in sea state 7, with waves as high as nine metres. Sea state is the degree of turbulence at sea, generally measured on a scale of 0 to 9 according to average wave height. The test was conducted on the heels of earlier two trials conducted on May 21 and 22, 2018 in which the major sub-systems manufactured indigenously under the ‘Make in India’ campaign were successfully tested to increase missile’s life from 10 to 15 years. BrahMos Missile: BrahMos is supersonic cruise missile developed by BrahMos Aerospace, a joint-venture between Russia’s Mashinostroyenia and India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It has been named after two rivers Brahmaputra and Moskva (river in western Russia). The missile has established itself as major force multiplier in modern-day complex battlefields with its impeccable land-attack, anti-ship capabilities with multi-role and multi-platform abilities. Stages: It is two-stage missile, the first one being solid and the second one ramjet liquid propellant. It is self-propelled guided missile that sustains flight through aerodynamic lift. Payload: It is capable of carrying warhead of 300 kilogram (both conventional as well as nuclear). Accuracy: It operates on ‘fire and forget principal’. It is claimed that missile has strike accuracy rate of 99.99%. It has enhanced destructive power due to large kinetic energy (because of supersonic speed) on impact. It has unique feature of quicker engagement time and non-interception by any known weapon system in the world. Speed: It has top supersonic speed of Mach 2.8 to 3 (roughly three times speed of sound). It is hailed as world’s fastest anti-ship cruise missile in operation. Range: It was initially capped at 290 km as per obligations of Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). Since India’s entry into this elite club, its range was extended to 450 km and plan is to increase it to 600km. Launch Variants: It is capable of being launched from land, sea, sub-sea and air against sea and land targets. It follows a variety of trajectories like high, high-low, low, surface-skim etc. It can cruise at altitude up to 15km and terminal altitude of as low as 10 meters. Induction: It has been already inducted in Indian Army and Navy. The air-launched version of missile was test-fired in November, 2017 for first time from modified Su-30MKI aircraft, making it world’s fastest supersonic cruise missile to be fired from a combat jet against a target.

    19) The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)-Madras has commissioned remotely operable Local Electrode Atom Probe (LEAP) microscope. It is claimed to be world’s first remotely operable LEAP microscope, as it can be remotely operated through special terminal by researchers divided geographically. Key Facts: LEAP is high-performance microscope that can provide a precise atom-by-atom view of materials. It provides atomic-scale insights into metallic, which will influence wide spectrum of industries ranging from steel to automobiles and energy to transportation sector. It will also give major thrust to research in nanotechnology, among other fields. The remotely operable LEAP microscope has been developed in a collaborative exercise involving eight top research institutions in country, spearheaded by IIT-M. Other partner institutions are IITs of Bombay, Delhi, Kanpur, Kharagpur and Ropar, International Advanced Research Centre for Powder Metallurgy and New Materials (ARCI) and Board of Research in Nuclear Sciences (BRNS).

    20) The International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its latest World Economic Outlook (WEO) update has projected growth rate of 7.3% in 2018 and 7.5% in 2019 for India as against 6.7% in 2017. This makes India, fastest growing country among major economies in 2018-19 and 2019-20. Key Facts: India will grow by 7.3% in 2018-19 against earlier estimate of 7.4%, slightly less — 0.1 percentage point in 2018. In 2019-20, it will grow by 7.5% against earlier estimate of 7.8%. This reflects negative effects of higher oil prices on domestic demand and faster than-anticipated monetary policy tightening due to higher expected inflation. Despite India’s slight downgrade in the projections, it continues to outperform China. Growth in China is projected to moderate from 6.9% in 2017 to 6.6% in 2018 and 6.4% in 2019. This is mainly because of regulatory tightening of financial sector takes hold and external demand softens. The global growth is projected to reach 3.9% in 2018 and 2019, in line with forecast of April 2018 WEO. Growth prospects in emerging market and developing economies is becoming more uneven, amid rising oil prices, higher yields in United States Treasury bonds, escalating trade tensions and market pressures on currencies of some economies with weaker fundamentals. World Economic Outlook (WEO): WEO is survey conducted and published by IMF. It is published biannually and partly updated two times a year. It portrays the world economy in the near and medium context, with growth projections for up to four years into the future. WEO forecasts include key macroeconomic indicators, such as GDP, inflation, fiscal balance and current account of more than 180 countries around the globe. It also deals with major economic policy issues.

    21) Indian Army is going to resume trials of US-made M777 ultralight howitzer in the Pokhran firing range, Rajasthan. During the trails local ammunition will be used and tentatively 100 to 150 rounds will be fired. The trials will begin after they were suspended in September 2017 following a barrel burst caused by faulty ammunition during firing. M777 Howitzer artillery gun: M777 is 155-mm, 39-calibre towed artillery gun. It is manufactured by US based BAE Systems’ Global Combat Systems division. It is smaller and lighter, as it is made of titanium and aluminium alloys and weighs just 4 tonnes. It has effective firing range of 24 km. It can use all types of 155 mm ammunition. It can be easily transported by heavy lift helicopters, which will give Indian Army tremendous flexibility in its operations, especially in high altitude mountainous terrain. It takes only three minutes to come into action and has a pack-up time of just two minutes. It can sit down like scorpene, which makes it difficult to be spotted by the enemy tanks Significance: Induction of M777 Howitzer artillery guns is expected to add tremendous firepower and much needed operational advantage to the Indian Army as they will be deployed in high-altitude areas in Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh, bordering China. It will also give access to state of art technology. These artillery guns are already being used by US, Canadian and Australian armies. Background: India signed Letter of Agreement and Acceptance (LoA) with US Government in November 2016 to buy 145 M777s through the foreign military sale (FMS) route at cost of $737 million. Of the 145 guns, 25 will be imported while the remaining 120 will be assembled in India in partnership with Mahindra group. Deliveries are slated to commence in March 2019 and will be completed by 2021. M777s deal is the first contract for artillery guns in almost 30 years after Bofors artillery guns induction in late-1980s, which had got embroiled in political controversy due to illegal kickbacks. Bofors guns however had been mainstay for Indian Army for decades and had played important role in Kargil conflict.

    22) President Ram Nath Kovind has Assam Witch Hunting (Prohibition, Prevention and Protection) Bill, 2015 passed by State Assembly in August 2015. This law aims to reign in rising incidents of witch hunting cases across the state. It was prepared in lines with spirit of universal declaration of human rights, crimes in witch hunting cases cause gross violation of basic human rights. Key features: The law aims to eliminate superstition from society by making such offences under it as non-bailable, non-compoundable and cognizable. It prohibit any person from calling, identifying or defaming any other person as witch by words, signs, conducts or indications. State Government has already notified the Act. It prescribes stringent punishment, if anybody found guilty. It imposes up to 7 years of jail and fine up to 5 lakh rupees. This provision will come as per Section 302 (punishment for murder) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) if someone is killed after being branded a witch. It also proposes sentence of 3 years imprisonment if anybody blames a person for natural disasters in a particular locality such as floods, droughts, illness or any death. Cases and offences registered under this law will undergo trail in Special courts which will be set up in consultation with the high court.

    23) State-owned defence electronics company Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Saab for jointly marketing L-Band 3D air surveillance radar (RAWL-03) which is co-developed by the companies. Saab is Swedish aerospace and defence firm that serves global market with world-leading products, services and solutions in military defence and civil security. RAWL-03: RAWL-03 is long range air surveillance radar for early detection and tracking of air and surface targets. It can be fitted in both ship-borne and land-based configurations. Its system is based on state-of-the-art GaN TR module technology and incorporates the latest signal processing techniques. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL): BEL is state-owned leading defence electronics company. It is one of nine PSUs under the Union Ministry of Defence of India. It has been accorded Navratna status. It is headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka. BEL is engaged in design, manufacture and supply of state-of-the-art radars like weapon locating radar and battle field surveillance radar, communication systems, naval systems, electronic warfare systems, missile systems, tank electronics and gun/weapon systems, coastal surveillance system etc, for the armed forces.

    24) It will include names of all arms licence holders, new or old and they will be issued a unique identification number (UIN). The move is aimed at keeping tab on authorised private gun holders, many of whom are often found involved in crimes and celebratory firing leading to loss of lives. It will also eliminate possibilities of issuing arms licence to persons whose antecedents are not bona. Key Facts: The decision was taken by exercising powers under Section 44 of Arms Act, 1959 (54 of 1959) by amending the Arms Rules, 2016. These rules will be called the Arms (Second Amendment) Rules, 2018. Under Section 3 of Arms Act, it is essential to obtain arms possession licence issued by competent licensing authority, by any person for acquisition, possession or carrying any firearms or ammunition. Under the new rules, every licensing and renewing authority will enter data in National Database of Arms Licences system from April 1, 2019, which will generate UIN. Any arms licence without UIN will be considered invalid. Besides, any existing licensee holding multiple licences will make application for grant of single licence in respect of all firearms held by him under his UIN to the concerned licensing authority. In case of licence for restricted category of arms or ammunition, licensing authority concerned will issue new licence under the existing UIN of the licencee. Separate licence books will be generated in case of each licence, separately for restricted and permissible categories of arms and ammunition with an overall ceiling of three firearms under single UIN.

    25) Haryana Government has launched ‘Paudhagiri campaign’, an unique program to increase green cover in the state. It was launched by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar by planting ‘maulsari’ sapling in Tau Devi Lal Sports Complex premises of Gurugram. The campaign aims increase green cover in the state, help in stabilising environment and improve overall climatic conditions, thus help in checking global warming. Paudhagiri campaign: Under this campaign, 22 lakh students studying in Class 6th to 12th of all government and private schools will plant sapling each, during three months of monsoon ( July, August and September). State forest department will provide sapling to every student. Students can plant saplings either in courtyard of their house, field or park or school or at any open space available in their proximity. Every student planting sapling will take care of it for next three years. They can name plant according to their likes. State Government will give incentive of Rs 50 in every six months from government, after student upload his selfie with his or her plant on App planted by him or her. Student will get total Rs 300 in three years for looking after sapling.

    26) ISRO has successfully conducted ground test of its high thrust version of Vikas Engine at ISRO Propulsion Complex (IPRC) in Mahendragiri, Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu for duration of 195 seconds. The tests meet all its propulsion parameters and were found satisfactory and closely matched the predictions. Vikas Engine: Vikas belongs to family of liquid fuelled rocket engines conceptualized and designed by ISRO’s Liquid Propulsion Systems Centre in the 1970s. The design was based on licensed version of Viking engine with chemical pressurisation system. It is the workhorse liquid rocket engine powering second stage of India’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV), second stage and four strap on stages of Geosynchronous Launch Vehicle (GSLV) and is part of first stage i.e. twin engine core liquid stage (L110) of GSLV Mk-III. The propellant loading for Vikas engine in PSLV, GSLV Mark I and II is 40 tons, while in GSLV Mark III it is 55 tons. The recently tested high thrust version of Vikas engine will improve payload capability of PSLV, GSLV and GSLV Mk-III launch vehicles.

    27) India became Vice-Chair or regional head of Asia Pacific Region of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) for two years from July 2018 to June 2020. By becoming Vice Chair, India will be able to take up leadership role at the WCO. Key Facts: To mark assumption of Vice Chair, an event will be organised in New Delhi by Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) in partnership with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII). The event was attended by Customs delegations of 33 countries of Asia-Pacific Region, Customs officers from different Ports in India, Partner Government Agencies and representatives from the trade among others. World Customs Organisation (WCO): WCO is an independent intergovernmental body whose mission is to enhance effectiveness and efficiency of Customs administrations. It was established in 1952 as Customs Co-operation Council (CCC). It is the only international organization with competence in Customs matters and is considered as voice of international Customs community. WCO represents 182 Customs administrations across the globe that collectively process approximately 98% of world trade. It is headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. It plays leading role in discussion, development, promotion and implementation of modern customs systems and procedures. Objectives: It aims to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of member customs administrations and assist them to contribute successfully to national development goals, particularly revenue collection, national security, trade facilitation, community protection, and collection of trade statistics. Organistaional Structure: WCO’s governing body – the Council relies on competence and skills of WCO Secretariat and a range of technical and advisory committees to accomplish its mission. The Secretariat comprises over 100 international officials, technical experts and support staff of some nationalities. WCO has divided its membership into six regions whereby each region is represented by elected vice-chairperson to WCO Council. Functions: It offers range of Conventions and other international instruments, as well as technical assistance and training services to its members. It also actively supports its members in their endeavours to modernize and build capacity within their national Customs administrations. It also plays vital role in stimulating growth of legitimate international trade and combats fraudulent activities. It also promotes emergence of honest, transparent and predictable Customs environment, thus directly contributing to economic and social well-being of its members.

    28) United Nations for first time has finalized Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration to better manage international migration, address its challenges, strengthen migrant rights and contribute to sustainable development. This is for first time UN Member countries came together to negotiate agreement covering all dimensions of international migration. Key Facts: The compact is the first intergovernmental agreement to cover wide-ranging dimensions of international migration in holistic and comprehensive manner, agreed upon by all the UN member states minus the United States. It is not legally binding. It sets out 23 objectives to deal issues ranging from factors that compel people to move, legal channels for migration, combating trafficking and smuggling, harnessing the economic benefits of migration and return of the migrants. Background: Currently, over 250 million migrants worldwide account for 3% of the world’s entire population, but contribute 10% of the global gross domestic production (GDP). Migrants remittance is huge contributor to their home countries’ development. The process of developing compact was started in early 2017 as implementation of decision by UN member states as adopted New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants in September 2016. UN member states’ another decision pledged in the declaration is to develop a Global Compact on Refugees.

    29) France has won 2018 FIFA World Cup Football by defeating Croatia by 4-2 goals in the final match held at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow, Russia . It was France’s second World Cup crown after it had own it in 1998 (by defeating Brazil) on home soil. With this, victory France joins Uruguay and Argentina in winning World Cup for a second time. It was Croatia’s first World Cup final appearance and smallest country ever to reach final in the modern era. Goal Scores: For France, four goals were scored by Mario Mandžukić (Croatia’s self-goal at 18 min), Antoine Griezmann (38 min), Paul Pogba (59 min) and Kylian Mbappe (65 min). For Croatia, two goals were scored by Ivan Perišić (28 min), Mario Mandzukic (69 min). 2018 FIFA World Cup Awards: Top 4 team rankings: France (1st, Winner), Croatia (2nd, Croatia), Belgium (3rd) and England (4th). Golden Ball award: Luka Modric (Croatia). Golden Boot award: Harry Kane (England captain) for scoring six goals across six games. Golden Glove award: Thibaut Courtois (Belgium). FIFA Young Player award: 19-year-old Kylian Mbappe (France). FIFA Fair Play Award: Spain for superb disciplinary record. Next World Cup: Qatar will be hosting next FIFA World Cup in 2022. It will be the first Arab country to host World Cup and it will also for first time it will be held in Middle East region. FIFA World Cup: It is an international association football competition contested by senior men’s national teams of members of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the sport’s global governing body. It is held every four years since the inaugural tournament held in 1930. The total 21 World Cup tournaments played so far have been won by eight national teams. Brazil has won for recode five times and it is only team that has played in every World Cup. Germany and Italy have each won four titles, Argentina, France and Uruguay have won two titles each. England and Spain has won one title each.

    30) Renowned Carnatic vocalist Aruna Sairam has been selected for 2018 Sangita Kalanidhi award of Music Academy for her contribution to Carnatic music. Under this recognition, she will preside over 92nd annual conference to be held between December 15, 2018 and January 1, 2019. The award will be conferred to her on January 1, 2019 the day of Sadas of the conference. Other awards: Sangita Kala Acharya award: It will be awarded to Mridhangist Thanjavur R. Ramadoss and vocalist K. Oman Kutty. T.K. Awards: It will be given to veena player Kalyani Ganesan and nagaswaram player S.R.G. Rajanna. Musicologist award: It will be given to Dr. Premeela Gurumurthy, the Vice Chancellor, Tamil Nadu University. Nritiya Kalanidhi award: It will be awarded to veteran danseuse Shanta Dhananjayan. Sangita Kalanidhi award/title: It is prestigious award/title bestowed annually upon expert of Carnatic Music by Madras Music Academy. The award’s name has been derived from Sanskrit which means treasure of Music and art in English (sangeetha = music, kala = art, nidhi = treasure). This honour is considered one of the highest awards in Carnatic music.

    31) President Ram Nath Kovind has nominated former MP Ram Shakal, RSS ideologue Rakesh Sinha, classical dancer Sonal Mansingh and stone artist Raghunath Mohapatra as members of Rajya Sabha. They were nominated as per Article 80(1)(a) of the Constitution, based on the recommendation of Council of Minister headed by Prime Minister Naredra Modi. Prior to these four nominations, there were eight nominated members in Rajya Sabha. Key Facts: Ram Shakal: He is farmers leader and public representative from Uttar Pradesh. He has devoted his life for welfare and well-being of Dalit community. He is widely respected for championing cause of farmers, labourers and migrants. He was three-time member of Lok Sabha, representing Robertsganj constituency of Uttar Pradesh. Rakesh Sinha: He is RSS ideologue Sinha and is the founder and honorary director of Delhi-based think-tank India Policy Foundation. He was professor at Motilal Nehru College of Delhi University. He was also member of Indian Council of Social Science Research (ICSSR). Raghunath Mohapatra: He is internationally renowned authority on stone carving. He has been practicing since 1959 and has trained over 2,000 students. He has contributed to preservation of traditional sculpture and ancient monuments and has worked on beautification of the Sri Jagannath Temple, Puri. His famous works include 6-feet-high statue of sun god carved in grey sandstone in Central Hall of Parliament and Wooden Buddha, Buddha Temple, Paris, France. Sonal Mansingh: She is among India’s foremost exponents of Indian classical dance. She is also well-known choreographer, teacher, orator and social activist. She has been performing Bharatnatyam and Odissi for overs six decades. She founded the Centre for Indian Classical Dances in Delhi in 1977. Nomination of eminent members to Rajya Sabha: As per Article 80 (Part V) of the Constitution, President can nominate 12 members in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha). These persons should have special knowledge or practical experience in the field of Art, Science, Literature and Social Service. The rationale behind principle of the nomination is to facilitate the representation of eminent professionals and experts who cannot face direct elections.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 14 July 2018 to 20 July 2018.

    32) Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 171 km long Bansagar canal project in Mirzapur district of Uttar Pradesh. He also laid foundation stone of Mirzapur Medical College, inaugurated 100 Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras and bridge over Ganga River at Balughat, Chunar, which will facilitate connectivity between Mirzapur and Varanasi. Bansagar canal project: Bansagar Dam project is a joint venture (JV) between Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar Governments. It is multipurpose river valley project built on Son River situated in Ganges Basin in Madhya Pradesh. The total network of canal from the dam is 171 kms long. The canal network will bring waters from Shahdol district in Madhya Pradesh for Adwa Barrage, Meza Dam and Jirgo reservoir. It will provide big boost to irrigation in the region, benefiting1 lakh 70 thousand farmers farmers of Mirzapur and Allahabad districts of Uttar Pradesh.

    33) Fertiliser major IFFCO has launched e-commerce platform IFFCO iMandi (an mobile application and web portal) to address all needs of the farming community associated with it. For this initiative, IFFCO has partnered with Singapore-based technology firm iMandi. Through this e-commerce platform, IFFCO is targeting to reach GMV (gross merchandise value) of $5 billion in the next two years by catering needs of 5.5 crore farmers already associated with it. IFFCO iMandi: The e-commerce platform is one stop shop for agri inputs and produce, FMCG, electronics, loans, insurance etc. It has features like buy-sell, communication (chat and calling), entertainment and information/advisory content to keep farmers engaged. Using it, farmers buy all agri inputs of IFFCO, including fertilisers, agro chemicals and seeds at discounted price and get free delivery at their doorstep. It will cater needs of 5.5 crore farmers already associated with IFFCO. In this platform, IFFCO’s subsidiary IFFCO eBazar Ltd has taken 26% stake in and remaining 74% is with I-tech Holdings and some other investors. Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO): IFFCO is large scale fertiliser cooperative federation in India which is registered as Multistate Cooperative Society. It is one of India’s biggest cooperative society which is wholly owned by Indian Cooperatives. It was founded in 1967 with just 57 cooperatives and at present it has amalgamation of over 36,000 Indian Cooperatives with diversified business interests ranging from General Insurance to Rural Telecom apart from its core business of manufacturing and selling fertilisers. It is headquartered in New Delhi. It had posted turnover of Rs 20,787 crore in 2017-18 fiscal. It produced nearly 8 million tonnes and sold 10.3 million tonnes of fertilisers in 2017-18.

    34) The 2018 Wimbledon Championships was a tennis tournament held from2 July to 15 July 2018. It was the 132nd edition of the championships and 51st edition in the Open Era. The tournament was held at the All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club in Wimbledon, London, United Kingdom. Winners are: Men’s Singles title: Serbia’s Novak Djokovic (World Number 21) won the 2018 Wimbledon title in men’s singles category by defeating Kevin Anderson (South Africa) in straight sets 6-2, 6-2, 7-6. It was his fourth Wimbledon title (earlier won in 2011, 2014 and 2015). Overall, it was his 13th career Grand Slam crown. Women’s Singles title: Angelique Kerber (Germany) won the 2018 Wimbledon title in women’s singles category by defeating Serena Williams (United States) in straight sets 6–3, 6–3. Men’s Doubles: It was won by Mike Bryan and Jack Sock pair from United States. They defeated Raven Klaasen (South Africa) and Michael Venus (New Zealand) pair by 6-3, 6-7(7-9), 6-3, 5-7, 7-5. Women’s Doubles: It was won by Barbora Krejčíková and Kateřina Siniaková pair from Czech Republic. They defeated Květa Peschke, 6 (Czech Republic) and Nicole Melichar (United States) by 6-4, 4-6, 6-0 score. Mixed Doubles: It was won by Alexander Peya (Austria) and Nicole Melichar (United States) pair. They had defeated Jamie Murray (United Kingdom) and Victoria Azarenka (Belarus) by 7-6(7-1), 6-3.

    35) The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has adopted Resolution 2428 (2018) to impose an arms embargo on South Sudan, almost five years after ruinous civil war was started in infant country. The resolution was drafted by United States and won minimum nine votes needed in favor to none against with 6 abstentions. Yes votes: United Kingdom, United States, Sweden, Poland, Ivory Coast, France, Kuwait, Netherlands and Peru. Abstentions from voting: Bolivia, China, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Kazakhstan, Russia. Resolution 2428 (2018): It calls upon all UN member states to prevent supply, sale or transfer to South Sudan — from or through their territories till 31 May 2019. The embargo is related to arms and related material and withholds training, technical and financial assistance related to military activities or materials. In addition, it lays out several exemptions to the country’s arms embargo including for material and activities related to humanitarian activities and lists details related to the inspection of shipments and cargo bound for South Sudan. Background: The civil war in South Sudan started in 2013, two years after it gained independence from Sudan, when President Salva Kiir accused his then-deputy Riek Machar of plotting coup against him. Over the years, long-standing intense rivalry between Kiir and Machar intensified fighting with more than dozen warring factions. The civil war has killed tens of thousands of people and forced millions to flee their homes, triggering humanitarian crisis. The United Nations has peacekeepers in the country as part of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS). In June 2018, President Kiir and his rival Riek Machar had agreed to permanent ceasefire, raising hopes of peace deal to end their country’s devastating civil war. But several ceasefires had previously been violated by the warring parties.

    36) National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) has drafted fee regulations to put in place uniform fee framework to check frequent and arbitrary increases in school fees by unaided private schools. NCPCR is country’s apex child rights body. It will recommend these draft regulations to Union Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD). Draft regulations: It proposes 10% yearly cap on the fee hike permissible by private, unaided schools. It suggests setting up district fee regulatory authority in states to monitor school fee increases. It suggests formula for determining fees, based on school’s location, costs incurred, revenue earned, student strength and other parameters. It proposes fines on schools if they violates uniform fee framework. These schools will be fined 1% of revenue it generates for first instance of violation of these rules and it will increase to 2 % and 5% for second and third violation. For any subsequent violation, it proposes to place school in no admission category and bar it from admitting new students. Note: The regulation of education-related matters is domain of HRD ministry, but NCPCR has stepped in to draft fee regulations for unaided schools, citing Section 13 of Commission for Protection of Child Rights (CPCR) Act, 2005 and Section 32 of Right to Education (RTE) Act, which gives it authority to review safeguards under law to protect of child rights and recommend measures. Background: There are around 3,50,000 private, unaided schools (24% of all schools) where 75 million children or 38% of all students, study. Such schools do not receive any grant from government and have to generate their own revenue for sustenance. Many cities across India have of late seen parents protest arbitrary fee hikes by such schools. In Mumbai and Delhi, for instance, arbitrary fee hike in such schools in last year varied between 10 % and 40 %. National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR): NCPCR is a statutory body set up in 2007 under Commissions for Protection of Child Rights Act, 2005. Its objective is to protect, promote and defend child rights in India including rights adopted in the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Children, 1989, ratified by India in 1992. (This convention defines child as a human being below 18 years of age).

    37) Union Ministry of Earth Sciences has announced that Century’s (2001 AD to 2100 AD)longest total lunar eclipse of 1 hour 43 minutes will occur on July 27-28, 2018. The entire eclipse will be visible from all parts of India. It will also be visible in region covering Asia, Australia, and Russia – except northern part, Europe, Africa, east of South America and Antarctica. The partial eclipse of Moon will begin on July 27, 2018. Later, Moon will be gradually covered by Earth’s shadow and totality phase will begin on July 28 and the total eclipse will last up to 2h 43m. Then the Moon will start to gradually come out of Earth’s shadow and partial eclipse will end on July 28, 2018. Longest Total Lunar Eclipse: In this particular eclipse, Moon will be passing through central part of Earth’s umbral shadow. During this time, Moon is located at apogee (i.e. at farthest from the Earth) in its orbit and will be moving at slower speed in its orbit. During this transition phase, it will take longer time for Moon and greater distance of Earth’s umbral shadow to travel, making it longest duration of total eclipse of this century. Such long duration of total lunar eclipses earlier had occurred on July 16, 2000 for totality duration of 1 hour 46 minutes and on June 15, 2011 for totality duration of 1 hour 40 minutes.

    38) United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres has established first-of-its-kind panel on digital cooperation aimed at addressing concerns of cybersecurity threats and rise in hate speech. The high-level panel on digital cooperation will be co-chaired by US philanthropist Melinda Gates and China-based Alibaba founder Jack Ma. Key Facts: The panel will have 20 members in total and include leaders from technology, public policy, science and academia etc. Senior Indian diplomat Amandeep Singh Gill along with former diplomat Jovan Kurbalija will be executive directors of panel’s secretariat. It will map trends in digital technologies, identify gaps and opportunities and outline proposals for strengthening international cooperation. It will focus on cyber-bullying, abuse rise, fake news, cyber crime and security aspects. Background: Digital technologies are expanding rapidly and are changing economies and societies at warp speed. At the same time, world is only beginning to address its dark side– such as cybersecurity threats, risks of cyberwarfare magnification of hate speech and violations of privacy. Global community is also facing uncertainness about security, equity, ethics, and human rights in digital age. Fake news, poisoning of data, electoral manipulation are concerns that have been highlighted by recent developments. So there is need to seize potential of technology while safeguarding against risks and unintended consequences.

    39) Union Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation (MDWS) has launched Swachh Survekshan Grameen 2018 (SSG 2018) in New Delhi, a rural cleanliness survey to rank all states and districts on basis of qualitative and quantitative evaluation. Key Facts: The objective of SSG 2018 is to undertake ranking of states and districts on basis of their performance attained on key quantitative and qualitative Swachh Bharat Mission-Grameen (SBM-G) parameters. The rankings will be based on taking into account set of comprehensive cleanliness parameters. The criteria of SSG-2018 include survey of public places, citizens’ perspective of cleanliness, their recommendations and data from SBM-G. As part of it, 6,980 villages in 698 districts across India will be covered. It will cover total 34,000 public places namely schools, anganwadis, public health centres, haat/bazaars/religious places in these villages. The SSG 2018 will assign 65% weightage to findings and outcome and 35% to service level parameters to be obtained from Integrated Management Information System (IMIS) of the MDWS. The weights to different elements of SSG are direct observation of sanitation in public places (30%), citizen’s feedback on sanitation parameters (35%), service level progress on sanitation progress in the country as per SBMG-MIS (35%). The SSG 2018 will be conducted by independent survey agency in all districts from 1st to 31st August 2018. It will also take feedback from over 50 lakh citizens on SBM related issues through direct interaction as well as online feedback. The top performing states and districts are expected to be awarded on 2nd October 2018.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 14 July 2018 to 20 July 2018.

    40) Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) has issued order allowing photography within premises of protected monuments and sites. The order was issued after Prime Minister Narendra Modi questioned ASI’s rules prohibiting visitors from taking photographs at certain monuments while inaugurating ASI’s new headquarters Dharohar Bhawan in Delhi’s Tilak Marg area. Key Facts: Under the new order, photography will be allowed within premises of Centrally protected monuments maintained and managed by ASI. However photography will remain prohibited near Ajanta Caves, Leh Palace (both housing paintings that can be damaged by camera flash) and mausoleum of Taj Mahal ASI administers and manages 3,686 ancient monuments and archaeological sites, and remains of national importance. Earlier, historians, academicians and professional photographers were required to take permission from ASI for photography in protected monuments.

    41) Union Government has invited United States President Donald Trump to be the chief guest at 2019 Republic Day celebrations. The invite was reportedly followed up with multiple rounds of diplomatic talks. If President Trump accepts the invitation, he will be second serving US President after Barack Obama to be invited as chief guest of Republic Day Parade. It will indicate importance of the Indo-U.S. relationship. Background: Prime Minister Narendra Modi had invited US President Trump and his family to India when he visited Washington in June 2017. His daughter Ivanka Trump, who is seen as President’s adviser, had travelled to India in September 2017 as head of US delegation for Global Entrepreneurship Summit (GES) at PM Modi’s invitation. Earlier Chief guests of India’s Republic Day parades are 2018- 10 Leaders of ASEAN Countries (It was first Republic Day event that saw participation of many leaders at same time as chief guests), 2017- Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi), 2016- Francois Hollande (President of France), 2015-Barack Obama (US President), 2014- Shinzo Abe (Japanese Prime Minister), 2013-Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck (King of Bhutan), 2012-Yingluck Shinawatra (Then Prime Minister of Thailand), 2011- Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (Then President of Indonesia).

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