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  • W.B.C.S Current Affairs 24 November 2018 to 30 November 2018.
    Posted on December 18th, 2018 in Weekly Current Affairs
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    W.B.C.S Current Affairs 24 November 2018 to 30 November 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.1) UN cultural agency UNESCO has added six new elements viz. Jamaican reggae, Georgian wrestling and Japanese ritual into its coveted list of “intangible heritage”. They were added at UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage meeting held in Mauritius. Six new elements added in list are: Chidaoba: It is Georgia’s traditional wrestling. It combines elements of wrestling, music, dance and special garments. It is part of Georgian folk dance and its practice encourages healthy lifestyle and plays an important role in intercultural dialogue”. Hurling: It is field game from Ireland. It dates back 2,000 years, features strongly in Irish mythology. It is played by two teams using wooden “hurley” stick and small “sliotar” ball. It is considered as intrinsic part of Irish culture and plays central role in promoting health and wellbeing, inclusiveness and team spirit. Reggae: It is Jamaican music originating from marginalized groups, mainly in Western Kingston. It was started out as voice of marginalized. But now it is played and embraced by wide cross-section of society, including various genders, ethnic and religious groups. Raiho-shin: They are Japanese rituals used to admonish laziness and teach children good behavior. In it local people dress in outlandish costumes and visit houses as deities as part folk beliefs that deities visit communities and usher in new year or season. By performing rituals, local people notably children have their identities moulded, developsense of affiliation to their community and strengthen ties among themselves. As-Samer: It consists mainly of dancing and singing and practiced across many areas of Jordan. It is performed on various occasions, most commonly during weddings. Its poetry forms are integral part of the tradition, expressing feelings of joy, peace, intimacy and empathy among those in attendance. Spring festive rites of Kazakhstan’s horse breeders: It marks end of the old and beginning of a new annual horse-breeding cycle. It is rooted in traditional knowledge of nature and an age-old relation between man and horse. The rites involve skills inherited from nomadic ancestors, adapted to meet present-day conditions to ensure its continued viability. UNESCO’s List of Intangible Cultural Heritage: This coveted list is made up of those intangible heritage elements that help demonstrate diversity of cultural heritage and raise awareness about its importance. The list was established in 2008 when Convention for Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage came into effect. It includes important intangible cultural heritages worldwide. It has two parts viz. Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity and List of Intangible Cultural Heritage in Need of urgent Safeguarding. From India, 14 Intangible Cultural Heritages have been added into this list. They are Koodiyattam (Sanskrit Theatre of Kerala), Mudiyett (theatre ritual of Kerala), Tradition of Vedic Chanting, Kalbelia (folk songs and dances of Rajasthan), Ramlila (Traditional Performance of the Ramayana), Sankirtana (singing, drumming and dancing ritual of Manipur), Ramman (religious festival and ritual theatre of Garhwal Himalayas), Thatheras (Traditional brass and copper craft of utensil of Punjab), Chhau dance (classical Indian dance originated in the eastern Indian states), Buddhist chanting of Ladakh (recitation of sacred Buddhist texts in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir), Yoga and KumbhMela.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 24 November 2018 to 30 November 2018.

    2) India and China signed protocol on hygiene and inspection requirements for exports of fish meal, fish oil imports from India to China. It was signed as part of discussions between India’s Commerce Ministry and six-member Chinese delegation led by Vice Minister, General Administration of Customs of China, Hu Wei on easing market access for exports of various farm products held in New Delhi. Highlights of meeting: Both Indian and Chinese sides appreciated each other’s concerns and agreed to resolve market access issues expeditiously to achieve the vision of the leaders of both the countries by promoting a more balanced trade. Chinese delegation also discussed issues regarding market access for Chinese products such as milk and milk products, agricultural goods like soy meal, fruits and vegetables, tobacco and pharmaceuticals. Protocol on hygiene and inspection requirements: This protocol for export of fish meal and fish oil from India to Chin is significant as India has been seeking market access for these items from China. It will enable India to commence export of fish meal and fish oil to China. China imports fish oil to tune of USD 143.29 million per year and fish meal worth US $263.43 million. It had so far not allowed these exports from India. This is the second Indian product to get clearance from China in the last six months. Earlier, during meeting of two countries in Wuhan, China protocol for Indian rice export to China was signed paving way for export of Indian rice to China.

    3) The naval exercise Konkan 18 between India and United Kingdom will be conducted from November 28 to December 6, 2018 off Goa with units participating from both navies. The harbour phase is scheduled from November 28 to November 30 2018 followed by the sea phase from 2-6 December, 2018. Key Facts: For this edition of exercise, Royal Navy will be represented by HMS Dragon, a Type 45 Class Destroyer equipped with integral Wildcat helicopter. Indian Navy will be represented by INS Kolkata, the first ship of latest Kolkata class destroyers, equipped with integral Seaking and submarine and maritime patrol aircraft Dornier. The thrust of exercise this year is on Anti-Air warfare, Anti-Submarine Warfare, Anti-Surface Warfare, Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) and seamanship evolutions. Besides exercises at sea, it will also encompasses professional interactions and sports fixtures. Background: Naval cooperation between India and United Kingdom is based on long term strategic relationship between both countries. Both Navies have, over years have undertaken bilateral activities such as training exchanges and technical cooperation. Bilateral KONKAN exercise was started in 2004 and since then has grown in scale. It provides platform to periodically exercise at sea and in harbor so as to build interoperability and share best practices. The exercise is aimed at deriving mutual benefit from each other’s’ experiences and is indicative of continuing cooperation between two countries. The inter-operability achieved over years as result of such exercises has proved to be operationally beneficial to both navies. The naval cooperation is tangible symbol of commitment of both nations in ensuring a positive climate at sea for enhancing strategic stability and promoting economic prosperity.

    4) Indian Air Force (IAF) and US Air Force (USAF) will participate in bilateral exercise ‘COPE INDIA 2019’ – scheduled to be held between December 3 and 14, 2019 in West Bengal. The bilateral flying training programme will be held at two important airbases in West Bengal – Air Force Station Kalaikunda and Air Force Station Arjan Singh at Panagarh. IAF’s Kalaikunda station is important training air base for IAF, Air Force Station Arjan Singh at Panagarh has second squadron of C130J Super Hercules aircraft. The first squadron of the C130J Super Hercules is based at Hindon. COPE INDIA 2019: It will be long-standing bilateral US Pacific Air Forces (PACAF)-sponsored Field Training Exercise (FTX), conducted with IAF. It will be focused on enhancing US-Indian mutual cooperation and building on existing capabilities, aircrew tactics and force employment. It will showcase US and India’s efforts and commitment to free and open Indo-Pacific region. Around 200 US airmen with 15 aircraft from 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base in Japan and 182 Airlift Wing of the Illinois Air National Guard will participate in it alongside their IAF counterparts. Background: Cope India is series of international Air Force exercises between Indian Air Force (IAF) and United States Air Force (USAF) conducted on and over Indian soil. The first such exercise was conducted at IAF air force station in Gwalior from February 2004. The exercise included flight tests, practice and demonstrations as well as lectures on subjects related to aviation. The exercise has evolved to incorporate subject matter expert exchanges, air mobility training, airdrop training and large-force exercises, in addition to fighter-training exercises. The exercise was repeated in 2005, 2006, 2009 and was last held in 2010.

    5) The three day South Asia Regional Youth Peace Conference was held in New Delhi as part 150th birth anniversary celebrations of father of nation Mahatma Gandhi. It was organised by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti, UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP) and STEP (Standing Together to Enable Peace). It was inaugurated by Krishna G Kulkarni, great grandson of Mahatma Gandhi. South Asia Regional Youth Peace Conference: Its objective was to eliminate stereotypes, prejudices across all borders to understand micro-macro aspect of issues, identify common challenges and develop plan of action and to build network of youth leaders. It was also aimed to equip young leaders with skills and knowledge based on peace education, critical enquiry and socio-emotional learning as tool to engage with their peers. It also aimed to build a network of youth leaders and change-makers across South Asia who will join hands to address common challenging issues together. It provided platform for young people of South Asia to further peace agenda in the region. About 100 youth leaders from South Asian countries and different parts of India had participated in to discuss different dimensions of ‘peace’. The countries represented include: Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka. The conference had conversations on Gender, Food Security, Interfaith Harmony, Digital media, Art Democracy and other Dialogues.

    6) Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in the country to implement Emergency Response Support System (ERSS) as Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh launched ERSS number 112 for the state. Under this system, all emergency numbers like 100 for police, 101 for fire, 102 for ambulance and disaster response have been integrated into one number ‘112’. This emergency number has been introduced on basis of US emergency number 911. Gradually this emergency number will be started in other states of the country. Emergency Response Support System (ERSS): It will provide single emergency response number across the country, providing 24*7 efficient and effective response system which can receive inputs from various voice and data services like voice call, SMS, e-mail and panic buttons in public transport, to attend to citizens in distress. It can also identify the location of persons in distress, connecting through voice or data, and immediate assistance will be provided to the affected. It will help in optimum utilisation of manpower and prompt action on emergency calls. In addition to this, problems related to coordination among police force will also be simplified. It has feature of automated response system for timely dispatch of field resources (police) to the location of incidence using the system. It also has GPS (Global Positioning System) enabled dispatch of vehicles to locate nearest vehicles. It will provide standardized and easy to use mobile apps, IoT (Internet of Things) applications on Pan-India basis. Background: The ERSS project was approved by Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) based on the recommendations of the Justice Verma Committee in the backdrop of unfortunate incident of Nirbhaya in December 2012 in national capital New Delhi. ERSS) was earlier referred as Nationwide Emergency Response System. The project was approved budgetary provision of Rs.321.69 crore under the Nirbhaya Fund with view to introduce Pan-India Single Emergency Response Number ‘112’ to address all kinds of distress calls such as police, fire and ambulance etc.

    7) Union Government has conferred status of Miniratna: Category–I to National Projects Construction Corporation Limited (NPCC). The empowerment of miniratna status to NPCC will help company to take speedy decisions by enhancing delegation of powers to Board. National Projects Construction Corporation Limited (NPCC): NPCC is schedule ‘B’ Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) under administrative control of Ministry of Water Resources. It incorporated in 1957. It is premier construction company having mandate with creation of infrastructure to provide impetus for economic development of the country. It also has been awarded ISO 9001:2015 Certification. NPCC is making continuous profit since 2009-10 and is having positive networth for last six years. It has ambitious business plan with enhanced order book position of Rs. 11833 crore. Background: Department of Public Enterprises under Ministry of Heavy Industries & Public Enterprises grants status of Maharatna, Navratna, and Miniratna to Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) and Central Public Sector Enterprises (CPSEs) based upon profit made by these enterprises. These statuses give financial and administrative power to the companies to a certain extent. At present there are total 8 Maharatna, 16 Navratna, 60 Miniratna Category-I and 15 Miniratna Category-II CPSEs.

    8) The 49th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) was held in Panaji, capital of Goa. The closing ceremony was held at Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Stadium in Bambolim in Panaji. Israeli Director Dan Wolman was honoured with lifetime achievement award. Story-screenplay-dialogue writer Salim Khan honoured with IFFI 2018 Special Award for his lifetime contribution to cinema. He was presented with cash prize of Rs. 10 lakhs, certificate, shawl and scroll for his outstanding contribution to cinema. Other Category Awards: Best film (Golden Peacock) award: Donbass (Ukrainian movie) directed by Sergei Loznitsa. Best director (Silver Peacock) award: Lijo Jose Pellissery (Malayalam film-India). Best Actor (Male) Award: Chemban Vinod for his role in ‘Ee.Ma.Yau’ (Malayalam-India). Best Actor (Female) Award: Anastasiia Pustovit for her role in ‘When the Trees Fall’ (Ukrainian). Centenary Award for Best Debut Feature Film of Director: Alberto Monteras II for ‘Respeto’ (Filipino). ICFT –UNESCO Gandhi Medal: ‘Walking with the Wind’ directed by Praveen Morchhale. IFFI 2019: The theme of for this year’s film festival was New India through a variety of genres of cinema, including history, action, romance and sports. Israel was focus country and Jharkhand was the focus state for this year’s IFFI. This is for the first time that any state was made focus state at IFFI. “The Aspern Papers” was opening film of the festival and closed with the world premiere of the German film “Sealed Lips”. More than 220 movies from 67 countries were screened at this year’s IFFI. 26 feature films and 21 non-feature films were screened in the Indian Panorama section. International Film Festival of India (IFFI): It is biggest state-backed international film festival in India. It is conducted jointly by Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Directorate of Film Festivals and Government of Goa. It was started in 1952 and since then held annually in Goa. It aims at providing common platform for cinemas of world to project the excellence of the film art. It also seeks to contribute to create awareness for understanding and appreciation of film cultures of different nations in context of their social and cultural ethos and promote friendship and cooperation among people of the world.

    9) Union Government has appointed Anil Manibhai Naik as Chairman of National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC). He is currently Group Chairman of engineering conglomerate Larsen and Toubro (L&T). He was awarded Padma Bhushan, India’s 3rd highest civilian award in 2009 for his outstanding contribution to economic growth of the country. National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC): NSDC is Public Private Partnership (PPP) under Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship (MSDE). It was founded in 2009 as not-for-profit company by Ministry of Finance to address need for providing skilled manpower across various industry sectors. Government of India (GoI) through MSDE holds 49% of share capital of NSDC, while private sector has balance 51% of the share capital. NSDC aims to promote skill development by catalyzing creation of large, quality and for-profit vocational institutions. Its objective is to create training capacity in the country; fund vocational training initiatives and create market ecosystem for skill development. Its mandate is to train 150 million people by 2022. It is also involved in re-skilling and also in catering to skilled manpower requirement of overseas markets, most notably that of Japan (under TITP) and UAE.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 24 November 2018 to 30 November 2018.

    10) Chairman of IT major Wipro and philanthropist Azim Premji was bestowed with highest French civilian distinction Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour). He was awarded for his outstanding contribution to developing information technology industry in India, his economic outreach in France and his contribution to society as philanthropist through the Azim Premji Foundation and Azim Premji University. Legion d’Honneur (Legion of Honour): It is the highest civilian award given by the French government to person for his outstanding service to France, regardless of the nationality of the recipients. It was instituted in 1802 by Napoleon Bonaparte. The order (merit for both military and civil merits) is divided into five degrees of increasing distinction: Chevalier (Knight), Officier (Officer), Commandeur (Commander), Grand officier (Grand Officer), and Grand-croix (Grand Cross). President of France is the Grand Master of the Order of the Legion of Honour. Some of the past Indian recipients of this prestigious award include renowned scientist and Bharat Ratna awardee C N R Rao, superstar Shah Rukh Khan, Amitabh Bachchan Amartya Sen, Ravi Shankar, Zubin Mehta, Lata Mangeshkar, JRD Tata and Ratan Tata among others.

    11) President Ram Nath Kovind has appointed Arvind Saxena as Chairman of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC), which conducts examination to select bureaucrats, diplomats and police officers. He will have tenure till August 7, 2020, when he attains the age of 65 years. Prior to this appointment, he was working as acting Chairman of UPSC since June 2018. He had joined UPSC as member in May 2015. Prior to joining the UPSC, he was working as director of the Aviation Research Centre (ARC). Arvind Saxena: He was student of civil engineering from Delhi College of Engineering and holds M.Tech in systems management from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Delhi. He was selected for civil services and joined Indian Postal Service in 1978. In 1988, he started working at Cabinet Secretariat, where he specialised in study of strategic developments in neighbouring countries. He has served in different countries and in states of Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. He is recipient of awards for meritorious services (2005) and distinguished services (2012). Union Public Service Commission (UPSC): UPSC is constitutional body which conducts the prestigious civil services examination to select IAS, IFS and IPS officers among others. It has been established under Article 315 of the Constitution and consists of Chairman and ten Members appointed and removed by President. The chairman and members of the Commission hold office for a term if six years or until they attain the age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. It conducts the prestigious civil services examination to select officers of Indian Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) among others.

    12) Japanese electronics company ‘CASIO’ has launched world’s first Goods and Services Tax (GST) calculator in India for simplify the GST calculations for tax payers The company has two variants of GST calculators MJ-120GST and MJ-12GST in the Indian market. These new GST calculators will provide solutions for GST based invoicing. Key Facts: These GST calculators feature built-in GST tabs for all five tabs- 0%, 5%, 12%, 18% and 28%. It includes separate buttons for GST slabs to reduce time required for processing invoice. The tax slab buttons on these calculators include GST+0, GST+1, GST+2, GST+3, GST +4 and are changeable as per ‘industry standards. These five buttons can store Gross value (net value+ Tax), net value and tax paid under GST slabs. These GST calculators also feature tax-mode application that will help taxpayers and traders to calculate base value of products by deducting tax from MRP. MJ-120GST calculator comes with GST+/tax- key that can calculate values in multiple formats i.e. gross value from base value in GST+ mode and base value from gross value in Tax- mode. GST GT key in the calculator can further determine gross value of GST based calculation.

    13) According to Global Wage Report 2018-19 published by International Labour Organization (ILO), women are paid most unequally in India, compared to men, when it comes to hourly wages for labour. This gap in wages, known as gender wage gap is the highest among 73 countries studied in the report. The findings are based on data from 136 countries. Highlights of report: On average, women are paid 34% less than men in India. Globally, on average, hourly wages of women are 16% less than those of men. Inequality is higher in monthly wages, with a gap of 22%. Overall, real wages grew just 1.8% globally (136 countries) in 2017.Women are paid higher hourly wages than men in Bangladesh. Gender wage gap highest in India, women are paid 30% less than men. In most countries, women and men differ significantly in respect of working time – specifically, that part-time work is more prevalent among women than among men. The gender wage gap is visible even with women with higher levels of education. Emphasis needs to be placed on ensuring equal pay for women and men. The gender wage gap has remained unchanged at 20% from 2016 to 2017. But in 2017, gender gap was accompanied by near-stagnation in wages. Real wage growth was lowest since 2008, the year of the financial crisis. In real terms (adjusted for price inflation), global wage growth declined to 1.8% in 2017, from 2.4% in 2016. In advanced economies (G20), real wage growth declined from 0.9% in 2016 to 0.4% in 2017, meaning near stagnation. By contrast, in emerging economies and developing G20 countries, real wage growth dipped marginally from 4.9% in 2016 and 4.3% in 2017. This global stagnation in real wages comes in line with global growth forecast, which was revised lower by International Monetary Fund (IMF) earlier. The slowdown in wages at level of hourly labour wages is in stark contrast with organised sector salaries. International Labour Organization (ILO): The ILO is United Nations agency dealing with labour issues, particularly international labour standards, social protection, and work opportunities for all. It was established in 1919 as an agency of the League of Nations and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. India is a founder member of the ILO. At present, it has 187 members. The principal means of action in the ILO is the setting up of International standards in the form of Conventions, Recommendations and Protocol. So far, India has ratified 45 Conventions, out of which 42 are in force. Out of these 4 are Core or Fundamental or Conventions.

    14) The first Sustainable Blue Economy Conference was held in Nairobi, capital of Kenya. It was organized by Kenya and cohosted by Japan and Canada. The theme of this conference was ‘The Blue Economy and the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.’ Sustainable Blue Economy Conference: This conference was held on momentum of UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, 2015 Climate Change Conference in Paris and UN Ocean Conference 2017 ‘Call to Action. Over 17,000 plus participants from some 184 countries had participated in the conference. India was represented Union Minister for Shipping, Road Transport & Highways, Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation Nitin Gadkari. Other parties who participated in this conference are World Wildlife Fund, WWF; International Maritime Organization, IMO; International Seabed Authority, ISA; orld Bank; AFRIEXIMBANK; Ocean Foundation etc. Background: Blue Economy is economic benefit and value that is realized from Earth’s coastal and marine environment. Sustainable Blue Economy is marine-based economy that provides social and economic benefits for current and future generations, restores, protects and maintains diversity, productivity and resilience of marine ecosystems. It is also based on clean technologies, renewable energy, and circular material flows. Blue Economy is very crucial for India’s economic development. India has strategic location in Indian Ocean region (IOR), and on this basis, it endorses growth of Blue Economy in sustainable, inclusive and people centred manner through framework of Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA). India is also developing its maritime infrastructure as well as its inland waterways and coastal shipping through launch of the ambitious “Sagarmala Programme” which aims to revolutionize maritime logistics and port led developments in country. India’s national vision about this sector is clearly articulated in term “SAGAR”- Security and Growth for All in IOR which was coined by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

    15) Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman launched ‘Mission Raksha Gyan Shakti’ in New Delhi to boost Intellectual Property Right (IPR) culture in indigenous defence industry. Mission Raksha Gyan Shakti: It was instituted by Department of Defence Production as part of the ongoing initiatives to enhance self-reliance in defence. It aimed to provide a boost to IPR culture in indigenous defence industry. The main objective of this programme was to inculcate IP culture in Indian defence manufacturing ecosystem. Directorate General of Quality Assurance (DGQA) was entrusted with responsibility of coordinating and implementing the programme. During the event, salient inventions and innovations achieved by DRDO, Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) and Ordnance Factories (OFs) that have resulted in successful filing of IPR applications were showcased. Background: IPR has emerged as key ingredient of an ecosystem which stimulates innovation and ingenuity. India has always been knowledge hub since ancient times, but due to lack of awareness on modern legal framework for protection of IP rights, nation’s knowledge and creativity have often not been utilised to its full potential. Spreading awareness about IPR will help in promoting culture of innovation and creation of Intellectual Property. Defence Ministry has established IP Facilitation Cell in April 2018 to achieve ambitious targets of training 10,000 personnel of OFB and DPSUs on IPR and facilitate filing of at least 1,000 new IPR applications.

    16) Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation Suresh Prabhu launched logo and brochure of Logix India 2019 in New Delhi. Logix India 2019 is scheduled to take place in New Delhi from 31stJanuary to 2nd February 2019. It is being organized by Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO). Logix India 2019: It aims to serve as major initiative to improve logistics cost effectiveness and operational efficiencies for India’s global trade. It will enable effective international trade logistics and help provide efficient and cost-effective flow of goods on which other commercial sectors depend. Over 20 countries are going to participate in this event. Through Logix India 2019, FIEO will also focus on investment opportunities in infrastructure development, technology integration, warehouse consolidation and IT enablement andskilling of manpower at the three-day meet. Need for integrated Logistics sector development: The logistics cost in India is very high compared to developed countries. High cost reduces competitiveness of Indian goods both in domestic as well as export market. Logistics sector is expected to grow to US $360 billion by 2032 from current US $115 billion. Increasing globalization of Indian economy, along with renewed manufacturing vigour attributed to Make in India Campaign and growth of e-commerce business all forecast rapid growth in Indian logistics sector. India was ranked 44 in World Bank Logistics Performance Index 2018. As per Economic Survey 2017-18, India’s logistics industry which is worth around US $160 billion is likely to touch US $215 billion in the next two years. This sector provides employment to more than 22 million people and is expected to grow at rate of 10.5% over the next 5 years. Logistics is also backbone of India’s international trade and will help in diversification of not only India’s export basket but also of products and countries.

    17) Union Government has inked $75 million loan agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) for Karnataka Integrated Urban Water Management Investment Program. Under it 24 x7 water supply will be provided in Karnataka’s four coastal towns of Kundapura, Mangalore Puttur and Udupi and improve sanitation infrastructure for Mangalore town. It will be tranche 2 loan agreement of this program. Karnataka Integrated Urban Water Management Investment Program: It was approved by ADB Board in 2014. It aims to improve urban water resource management in selected river basins in Karnataka through modernization and expansion of urban water supply and sanitation infrastructure. It also seeks to strengthen institutions to improve water use efficiency, water resource planning, monitoring and service delivery. Tranche 1 loan of $75 million from ADB has helped to strengthen urban water supply and sanitation services in three other towns of state viz. Byadagi, Davangere, and Harihar. Significance : The investment program will support coastal towns in Karnataka to provide continuous piped water supply to people and promote efficient and sustainable use of water. It will also adopt information technology (IT) based smart water management system and undertake community awareness programs on water conservation and demand management. It will also help urban local bodies to become efficient and responsive urban water utility service provider.

    18) The International Gita Festival 2018 will be organised in Kurukshetra in Haryana from December 7 to 23, 2018. This year it is third year of this mega cultural event, where Mauritius is partner country and Gujarat is the partner state. Gita festival will also be organised in Mauritius next February. The objective behind this event is to spread the message of Gita to world. International Gita Festival 2018: It is being organized to commemorate birth of ‘Srimad Bhagwat Gita’, the sacred scripture containing invaluable advice of Lord Krishna that he proffered to Arjuna, third Pandava in battlefield of Kurukshetra on first day of famous 18-day battle in Mahabharata. It is held mainly on 11th day on Shukla Paksha (waxing phase of moon) of Margashirsh month (November – December) as per traditional Lunar calendar i.e. Shukla Paksha Ekadashi day of Margashirsha month. It is jointly organized by Kurukshetra Development Board, Haryana Tourism, District Administration and Information and Public Relations Department, Haryana. On sidelines of this event, about 200 famous painters from across the country will draw paintings on walls of Kurukshetra on the theme of the Mahabharata under the ‘paint-the-wall’ competition. Artists from India as well from Mauritius, Indonesia, Iran, Turkmenistan and Russia will perform during the annual festival. Bhagavad Gita: It is 700 verse Hindu scripture in Sanskrit that is part of Hindu epic Mahabharata. It is set in narrative framework of dialogue between Pandava prince Arjuna and his guide and charioteer Lord Krishna. The Bhagavad Gita presents a synthesis of the concept of Dharma, theistic bhakti, yogic ideals of moksha through jnana, bhakti, karma, and Raja Yoga and Samkhya philosophy.

    19) Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs launched ‘PAiSA’ – Portal for Affordable Credit and Interest Subvention Access during National Workshop on Municipal Finance and Urban Planning held in New Delhi. PAISA Portal: It is centralised electronic platform for quicker processing of loans under the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM). It aims to connect directly with beneficiaries and ensure there is greater efficiency in the delivery of services. It has been designed and developed by Allahabad Bank, the nodal bank under the scheme. All 35 States and Union Territories (UTs) & all scheduled commercial banks, Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) and Cooperative Banks are expected to be on board the PAiSA portal the year end. Deen Dayal Antyodaya Yojana-National Urban Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM): It is Centrally Sponsored Scheme implemented by Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation. Its objective is to uplift urban poor folks by enhancing sustainable livelihood opportunities through skill development. Its intended beneficiaries are urban poor (street vendors, slum dwellers, homeless, rag pickers); unemployed and differently abled. It provides for employment through Skill Training and Placement through City Livelihood Centers to reduce poverty and vulnerability of the urban poor households. It also provides social mobilization and institution development through formation of Self-Help Groups (SHG) for training members and hand holding, an initial support of 10, 000 is given for each group. It also provides subsidy to urban poor i.e. interest subsidy of 5% – 7% for setting up individual micro-enterprises with loan of up to 2 lakhs and for group enterprises with loan limit of up to Rs.10 lakhs. It fully funds cost of construction of shelters for urban homeless. It also provides for development of vendor markets and also promotion of skills for vendors through setting up infrastructure and special projects for rag picker and differently abled etc.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 24 November 2018 to 30 November 2018.

    20) Union Ministry Health and Family Welfare has soft-launched Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme (IDSP) segment of Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP) in seven states. The first one-of-its-kind initiative lannched by the Central Government to monitor public health surveillance. Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP): It is real time, village wise, case based electronic health information system with GIS tagging to provide prompt prevention and control of epidemic prone diseases. It uses the latest technologies and digital health initiatives. It will provide near-real-time data to policy makers for detecting outbreaks, reducing the morbidity and mortality and lessening disease burden in populations and better health systems. It will enable creation of interoperable health records which can be made available and accessible throughout the country. For effective implementation of the platform, 32,000 people at block level, 13,000 at district level and 900 at state level have been trained. The success of this platform will depend primarily on quality of data shared by the states. Adopting this platform will help states to strengthen early outbreak detection and informed public health response.

    21) Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu laid foundation stone for construction of Kartarpur Sahib corridor on Indian side at Mann village in Gurdaspur district, Punjab. The corridor will provide visa free passage to Indian Sikh pilgrims to visit holy site of Gurudwara Darbar Sahib at Kartarpur in Pakistan. Gurudwara Darbar Sahib: It is 16th century Gurdwara located on the banks of the river Ravi in Shakargarh in Narowal district of Punjab province of Pakistan. It is located about 3 to 4km from Indo-Pak border in Pakistan in Punjab. This gurudwara was established by the first Sikh Guru in 1522. It is important for Sikhs as Guru Nanak Dev, the founder of Sikhism and its first guru had assembled Sikh community and lived for 18 years until his death in 1539. Kartarpur Corridor: It will road link that will connect India’s border district of Gurdaspur with historic Gurudwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan. It purpose to let Sikh pilgrims visit holy shrine without visa and to help them walk across and come back without having to secure visa. Indian side of corridor will start from Dera Baba Nanak in Gurdaspur district and extends upto International border between India and Pakistan. The corridor will be developed by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and will be funded by the Union Government. The project corridor is 4 lanes with service road and will encompass all other appropriate amenities needed by pilgrims while visiting the Gurudwara Darbar Sahib in Pakistan. It will help to boost tourism and people to people contact between both countries as more pilgrims will visit holy shrine throughout the year between two countries. Background: India had first proposed Kartarpur Sahib corridor in 1999 when then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee took bus ride to Lahore. Recently this year Pakistan had decided to revive this proposal and built corridor on side. Union Government had decided to build this corridor upto international border between India and Pakistan as integrated development project to mark 550th birth anniversary of the Guru Nanak Dev Ji in 2019.

    22) The Constitution Day of India (or Samvidhan Diwas) is observed every year on 26th November to mark the anniversary of adoption of Constitution and also spread awareness of Indian Constitution. On this day in 1949, constitution of India was adopted and came into force on January 26, 1950. Union Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MSJE) is nodal Ministry for the celebration of Constitution Day. This year it was third edition of the Constitution Day (69th anniversary of adoption of Constitution) after it was instituted in October 2015 as part of year-long nationwide celebrations of 125th birth Anniversary of Dr. B R Ambedkar, Chairman of the Drafting Committee of Constituent Assembly. Some facts about Indian Constitution: Indian Constitution is supreme law of India, which lays down framework that defines political principles, establishes structure, procedures, powers and duties of Government institution. It is core legal document which has nearly 448 articles or provisions in 25 parts, 12 schedules. It is living fundamental document which makes the government system work effectively. It lists out fundamental rights of citizens, duties, role of the government, powers of prime minister, president, governor and chief minister, interaction between the government and its citizens and defines how the federal structure of the country will be maintained. It also defines the powers of the legislature, the executive and the judiciary. The key feature of the Constitution is separation of powers while keeping a check on each arm of the government. Indian Constitution is the longest written constitution of any sovereign country in the world. It signifies the sovereignty of the people. Its drafters had borrowed concepts and ideas from the Constitutions of UK, US, Germany, Ireland, Australia, Canada and Japan. Dr BR Ambedkar is regarded as the father of the Indian Constitution.

    23) Union Government has signed $200 million loan agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) for Bihar State Highways III Project (BSHP-III). It will finance widening and upgrading of about 230 kms state highways in Bihar to all-weather standards with road safety features. Since 2008, ADB has provided four loans to Bihar amounting to $1.43 billion to upgrade about 1,453 km of State Highways and to construct new bridge over Ganga River near Patna (on completion it will be the India’s longest river bridge). Bihar State Highways III Project (BSHP-III): It was approved by ADB Board in October 2018. It aims at upgrading State Highways to standard two-lane width with road safety features and paved shoulders including reconstructing, widening and strengthening culverts and bridges. It also seeks to build institutional capacity of State for road design and maintenance and incorporate appropriate new technologies in the State’s road sub-sector. The improved roads under the Project will contribute to savings in vehicle operating cost and travel time, reduce vehicle emissions and improve road safety. This loan will complement efforts of Bihar Government to upgrade all state highways to meet minimum two-lane standard with better surfaces and improved road safety leading to improved connectivity. It will also establish State-level Road Research Institute to improve technical and management capacity of Road Agency Staff. Asian Development Bank (ADB): ADB is a regional development bank based out of Asia. It aims to promote social and economic development in Asia by achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. It was established in December 1966. It is headquartered at Ortigas Centre in Manila, Philippines. It has total 67 members, of which 48 are from within Asia and the Pacific and 19 outside.

    24) India and China have signed protocol to amend Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) for the avoidance of double taxation and for prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income by allowing exchange of information. Under Section 90 of Income-tax Act, 1961, India can enter into agreement with foreign country or specified territory for the avoidance of double taxation of income, for exchange of information for the prevention of evasion. Key Facts: The Protocol to amend DTAA with China updates existing provisions for exchange of information to latest international standards. It incorporates changes required to implement treaty related minimum standards under the Action reports of Base Erosion & Profit Shifting (BEPS) Project. Besides minimum standards, it also brings in changes as per BEPS Action reports as agreed upon by the two sides. It will help prevent tax evasion by allowing the exchange of information.

    25) Union Finance Ministry has appointed Akhilesh Ranjan, Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) member as Convenor of Task Force that is drafting New Direct Tax Legislation (Law). He will replace Arbind Modi who retired in September 2018. The other members (composition) of the Task Force remain unchanged. Akhilesh Ranjan is presently serving as Member (Legislation) of CBDT. Key Facts: The task force was constituted in November 2017 in order to review Income-tax Act, 1961 and to draft new direct tax law in consonance with the economic needs of the country. At that time, Arbind Modi, who was then Member (Legislation) of CBDT was appointed as Convener of task force. The task force has been mandated to draft appropriate Direct Tax Legislation keeping in view direct tax system prevalent in various countries, international best practices and economic needs of the country. It will submit its report to Government by February 28, 2019. It has set its own procedures for regulating its work.

    26) The first-ever India Russia Strategic Economic Dialogue was held at St. Petersburg in Russia. Indian side was led by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar and Russian delegation headed by Economic Development Minister Maxim Oreshkin. Key Facts: The two-day forum provided participants platform to discuss development of bilateral ties in trade, investment, technology and industry. It was aimed to bring together key business figures from both countries. Transport, agriculture and agro-processing, Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), digital transformation and frontier technologies and industrial cooperation were some of the key areas of focus of the forum. Indo-Russian Strategic Economic Dialogue : It was created by PM Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin in their informal summit (held at Sochi in May 2018) to give big push to economic partnership between both countries that has started to gain momentum since 2017. It aims to focus on macro picture of economic partnership and also explore partnership and joint ventures in services and IT sectors. It seeks to put in place mechanism for partnership between resource-rich Russian regions and Indian states. In effort to boost bilateral trade to $30 billion by 2025, both countries have agreed to give high priority to removal of obstacles to trade in order to improve upon 21.5% growth in two-way trade recorded last year. India has already launched Strategic Economic Dialogue with China.

    27) Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) for Africa and Asia has termed ‘Titli’, the severe cyclonic storm that devastated Odisha in October 2018 as ‘rarest cyclone’. Earlier, India Meteorological Department (IMD) had called formation of Titli as ‘rarest of rare’ occurrence after this severe cyclone had changed its path after making landfall. Key Facts: According to RIMES, Titli cyclone is rarest of rare in more than 200 years of cyclone track history in Odisha coast and also elsewhere. Its rare features were in terms of its characteristics such as recurvature after landfall, retaining its destructive potential after landfall and recurvature away from coastal areas for more than two days. Due to its rare features, forecast information lacked actionable early warning information such as no indication of occurrence of secondary hazards, including landslides far away from the coasts especially in interior districts of Odisha. Due to this, Odisha State Disaster Management Authority (OSDMA) had faced challenges in anticipating and managing Titli’s impact due to lack of impact-based actionable early warning information and prior experience. By learning lessons from Titli cyclone, measures can be evolved to minimise impacts in both coastal and non-coastal regions more effectively in future. Suggestion- RIMES has recommended that detailed risk assessment has to be carried out for Odisha to understand the risks in light of the Titli devastation. At present, State government actions linked to cyclone-risk management are heavily focused on coastal areas where cyclones cross at their peak intensities. Therefore, coastal areas now have been largely well managed through evacuations and other protocols, leading to zero casualties in these areas. Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES): It is intergovernmental body registered under United Nations. It is owned and managed by 45 collaborating countries in Asia Pacific and Africa Region. India is chairman of the body. It was established in 2009 and was registered with UN in July 2009. It operates from its regional early warning centre located at campus of Asian Institute of Technology in Pathumthani, Thailand. It has evolved from efforts of countries in Africa and Asia in aftermath of 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Mandate- It seeks to establish regional early warning system within multi-hazard framework for generation and communication of early warning information and capacity building for preparedness and response to trans-boundary hazards. It provides information related to Tsunami and extreme weather conditions. It also acts as a test bed for emerging technologies and help to enhance performance.

    28) Andaman & Nicobar Islands are to home to tenth of India’s fauna species and hosts 1,067 endemic faunal species found nowhere else. It was revealed by Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) publication titled Faunal Diversity of Biogeographic Zones: Islands of India. This publication for the first time has come up with database of all faunal species found on the island. It has database of species found in particular category of animals and also highlights most vulnerable among them. Highlights of ZSI publication: Total area of A&N Islands, which comprises of 572 islands, islets and rocky outcrops, is about 8,249 sq. km has around total 11,009 species. It comprises only 0.25% of India’s geographical area but is home to more than 10% of country’s fauna species. Thus, presence of such large number of species in such small area makes A&I Islands one of the richest ecosystems and biodiversity hot spots in India. Tourism, illegal construction and mining are posing threat to the islands’ biodiversity, which is already vulnerable to volatile climatic factors. Some of the species in A&N Islands are restricted to very small area and thus more vulnerable to any anthropogenic threat. Marine fauna: Of the ten species of marine fauna found on islands, dugong/sea cow and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphin are both classified as Vulnerable under IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Terrestrial mammalian species: 46 terrestrial mammalian species are found. 3 species have been categorised as Critically Endangered —Jenkin’s shrew (C. jenkinsi), Andaman shrew (Crocidura andamanensis) and Nicobar shrew (C. nicobarica). Five species are listed as Endangered, 9 species as Vulnerable, and 1 species as Near Threatened by IUCN. Birds: Endemism is quite high in A&N islands, with 36 among 344 species of birds found only on the islands. Many of these bird species are placed in IUCN Red List of threatened species and also under the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA). Marine diversity: Eight species of amphibians and 23 species of reptiles are endemic to the islands. They are at high risk of being threatened. Marine faunal diversity: It includes coral reefs and its associated fauna. In all, 555 species of scleractinian corals (hard or stony corals) are found in the island ecosystem, all which are placed under Schedule I of the WPA. Zoological Survey of India (ZSI): It is India’s apex organization on animal taxonomy. Its objective is to promote survey, exploration, research and documentation on various aspects of animal taxonomy in Indian subcontinent. It also seeks advancement of knowledge on animal taxonomy. It was established in 1916 and headquartered in Kolkata. It has been declared as designated repository for National Zoological Collection as per section 39 of the National Biodiversity Act, 2002.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 24 November 2018 to 30 November 2018.

    29) Dudhwa Tiger Reserve (DTR) and Sashastra Seema Bal have joined hands to provide security to Dudhwa forests and its rich wildlife. It was part consensus reached among all security agencies including SSB, central and local intelligence officers, customs and excise officials, Special Tiger Protection Force and DTR’s field staff to discuss issues involving safety of Dudhwa forests and its wildlife. Key Facts: The joint long route patrolling comprising SSB, STPF and DTR field staff will help to strengthen patrolling in and around Dudhwa to check forest and wildlife crimes. Intelligence and information will be also shared among various security agencies about activities of wildlife and forest criminals. Besides, mechanism to establish SSB border outpost level communication and information was approved for strengthening safety of Dudhwa. Dudhwa Tiger Reserve: It is protected area in Uttar Pradesh that stretches mainly across the Lakhimpur Kheri and Bahraich districts. It comprises Dudhwa National Park, Kishanpur Wildlife Sanctuary and Katarniaghat Wildlife Sanctuary. It covers area of 1,284.3 km2 and includes three large forest fragments. It shares north-eastern boundary with Nepal, which is defined to large extent by Mohana River. The area is vast Terai alluvial floodplain traversed by numerous rivers and streams flowing in south-easterly direction. It ranges in altitude from 110 to 185 m. Apart from tigers (estimated 106–118), it is also home to swamp deer, sambar deer, barking deer, spotted deer, hog deer, Indian rhinoceros, sloth bear, ratel, jackal, civets, jungle cat, fishing cat, etc. It is home to one of finest forests in India, some of these trees are more than 150 years old and over 70 ft tall. Sashastra Seema Bal (SSB): It is Central Armed Police Force (CAPF) entrusted with guarding country’s border with Nepal and Bhutan. It was established in 1963 and functions under administrative control of Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). Its headquarters are in New Delhi. It has specialist jurisdictions for national border patrol, security, and integrity.

    30) Russia’s state space corporation (Roscosmos) has planned to venture into Internet of things (IoT) with launch of new satellite system named ‘Marathon’. The new satellite system will be part of Russia’s Sphere satellite constellation, which will be fully established by 2026. The number of satellites in Marathon system are not revealed yet. The federation’s GLONASS navigation, a satellite communication system and data relay satellite set-up will be other equipment in the constellation. Background: Russian President Vladimir Putin has approved Sphere constellation project, which involves the construction and deployment of 640 satellites. There are several segments of the satellite communication. USA’s Iridium has been long operating successfully on voice satellite communications market. OneWeb and Starlink dominate broadband Internet segment. IoT is the third segment of the satellite communication. Work in this segment will be successful if services are provided at lowest prices as the other systems also provide such services as well. Internet of Things (IoT): IoT is a network of devices such as smartphones, wearable devices, home appliances and vehicles, connected to internet, which enables these objects to connect and exchange data. Blockchain technology has potential to address security risks to IoT as it provides a shield against data tampering by labelling each block of data.

    31) Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar unveiled 70-feet tall statue of Lord Buddha at Rajgir in Nalanda district of state. It is second tallest statue of Buddha in the country. Key Facts: The statue has been installed above 16 metre radius pedestal in middle of lake Ghora Katora. It has been made from 45,000 cubic foot pink sand stone. Ghora Katora is natural lake surrounded by five hills. The area around lake and statue has been developed into beautiful park from eco-tourism point of view. In this area no petrol and diesel vehicles will be allowed to ply and only electronic vehicles will be allowed.

    32) International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women (IDEVAW) is observed every year across the world on 25 November. Observance of this day seeks to raise awareness about violence against women and girls, end violence against women. It also seeks to show that prevention is possible against violence of women. The UN theme for this year’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (25 November – 10 December) under the UNiTE to End Violence against Women campaign is “Orange the World: #HearMeToo”. It aims to reinforce UNiTE Campaign’s commitment to create world free from violence for all women and girls and reaching out to most marginalized people including migrants, refugees, indigenous peoples, minorities and populations affected by natural disasters and conflicts. Background: International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women was instituted by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by adopting resolution 54/134 passed in December 1999. This day is commemorated in memory of Mirabal sisters who were three political activists from Dominican Republic. They were brutally assassinated during the Rafael Trujillo dictatorship (1930-1961) in 1960. Violence against women: Violence against women is a human rights violation. It is a consequence of discrimination against women, in law. It is also in general practice and persisting inequalities between men and women. It impedes, progress in many areas, including poverty eradication, peace and security and combating HIV/AIDS. Violence against women continues to be a global pandemic, but is not inevitable but prevention is possible and essential.

    33) India’s boxing legend Mary Kom won gold medal at World Women’s Boxing Championships held in New Delhi. It was her sixth medal in World Boxing Championships. In the final, she defeated 22-year-old Ukrainian boxer Hana Okhaya of Ukraine. Mary Kom won this medal at age of 35 years. With winning this medal, Mary Kom has become the most successful boxer in world boxing history with 6 gold medals. In this Women’s World Boxing Championships 2018, India won total four gold, three silver and three bronze medals. Mary Kom: Mary Kom’s full name is named Chungjijung Mary Kom Humangte. She was born on March 1, 1983 in Kangathei, Manipur. She is one of the most successful boxers of amature boxing globally. She is the only boxer to win medals in seven world championships including six gold medals. She had won gold medal at World Boxing Championships held in Antalya in 2002, Podoslovak in 2005, New Delhi in Ningbo City in 2008, Bridgetown in 2010 and in New Delhi in 2018. Apart from this, she had won silver medal in World Boxing Championships held in Scranton in 2001. She had won bronze medal in 2012 London Olympics. After this, in the 2018 Commonwealth Games, she had won gold medal. She had won gold medal in the 2014 Asian Games and bronze medal in 2010 Asian Games, making her first women boxer to win gold medal at Asian Games. In April 2016, President had nominated her as member of Rajya Sabha. She has been bestowed with Padma Bhushan (2013), Arjuna Award (2003), Padma Shri (2006) and Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna award (2009).

    34) India’s Sameer Verma has won Syed Modi India Grand Prix Gold badminton title 2018 in men’s singles category. In the final match held in Lucknow, he defeated China’s Lu Guangzu by 16-21, 21-19 and 21-14 score. Women’s singles title was won by China’s Han Yue after defeating India’s Saina Nehwal by 21-18, 21-8 score. Syed Modi International India Open Grand Prix championship: It was launched by Uttar Pradesh Badminton Association (UPBA) in 1991 as ‘Syed Modi Memorial Badminton Tournament’ in memory of Syed Modi. Initially, it was national level event and in 2004 it was organized as International event for the first time. In 2011, it was upgraded to BWF Grand Prix Gold tournament. It is held every year at Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh.

    35) Scientists from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), US have built and flown first-ever silent airplane with no moving propellers or jet turbines. At present, every aircraft have moving parts such as propellers, turbine blades and fans, which are powered by the combustion of fossil fuels or by battery packs that produce a persistent, whining buzz. Key Facts: MIT researchers have designed this lightweight plane weighing about five pounds with five-meter wingspan. It was flown at distance of 60 meters, a feat that was repeated 10 times. It was simplest possible plane design that could prove concept that ion plane could fly. It is first-ever plane having no moving parts in propulsion system. This new light aircraft does not carry propellers or turbines and also not depends on fossil fuels to fly. It is inspired from movie and television series “Star Trek”. It is powered by ionic wind or electrodynamic thrust, a silent but mighty flow of ions that is produced aboard plane. It can generate enough thrust to propel plane over sustained, steady flight. Unlike propeller-driven planes, the new design is completely silent. Significance: It has potentially opened new and unexplored possibilities for aircraft which are quieter, mechanically simpler and do not emit combustion emissions. In the near-term, such ion wind propulsion systems could be used to fly less noisy drones. Moreover, ion propulsion paired with more conventional combustion systems can create more fuel-efficient, hybrid passenger planes and other large aircrafts in future.

    36) United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has appointed popular singer Nahid Afrin (17) of Assam as the first ‘Youth Advocate’ of the northeastern region to fight for child rights. UNICEF engages ‘Youth Advocates’ to harness their voice as agents of change in society. Nahid had made her playback debut in 2016 Bollywood film ‘Akira’ starring Sonakshi Sinha in the lead. She received best female playback singer award at the Assam state Film Award 2018. United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF): Formerly known as United Nations International Children’s Emergency Fund is special program of UN devoted to aiding national efforts to improve the health, nutrition, education, and general welfare of children. It was created in 1946 to provide relief to children in countries devastated by World War II. It is headquartered in New York City. After 1950, it directed its efforts toward general programs for improvement of children’s welfare, particularly in less-developed countries and various emergency situations. Its broader mission was reflected in present name adopted in 1953. It was awarded Nobel Prize for Peace in 1965. Since 1996 UNICEF programs have been guided by Convention on Rights of the Child (1989), which affirms right of all children to enjoyment of highest attainable standard of health and to facilities for treatment of illness and rehabilitation of health. Much of UNICEF’s efforts are concentrated in areas in which relatively small expenditures, but have significant impact on lives of the most disadvantaged children, such as the prevention and treatment of disease. Its activities are financed by both government and private contributions. It supports immunization programs for childhood diseases and programs to prevent spread of HIV/AIDS. It also provides funding for health services, educational facilities and other welfare services.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 24 November 2018 to 30 November 2018.

    37) The 7th edition of the ‘International Tourism Mart’ was held in Agartala, the capital city of Tripura. It was organised by Union Ministry of Tourism in association with Department of Tourism, Government of Tripura and North Eastern States. The theme for this year is “Adventure Tourism”. Key Facts: This edition of tourism mart is expected to witness wide participation of international buyers and media delegates from countries around the world and from different regions of the country. Total of 41 foreign delegates from 18 countries and 23 tour operators and travel agents along with 18 media representatives, journalists, travel writers and bloggers are participating in this edition of the tourism mart. Besides, foreign delegates, 26 domestic tour operators from other parts of country and 78 sellers from north-eastern states also had participated. The participants had engaged in business-to-business (B2B) meetings with sellers from north-eastern region which enabled tourism product suppliers from region to reach out to international and domestic buyers. The mart also included presentations by state governments of region on their tourism potential, panel discussion, cultural evenings, sightseeing visits to local attractions in and around Agartala. International Tourism Mart: It is annual event organized in north-eastern region with the objective of highlighting tourism potential of region in domestic and international markets. It provides platform to tourism business fraternity and entrepreneurs from eight North Eastern States. It organized annually in North Eastern States on rotation basis. The earlier editions of this mart have been held in Guwahati, Tawang, Shillong, Gangtok and Imphal. North East Region of India comprising states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura and Sikkim. It is endowed with diverse tourist attractions and products.

    38) Andhra Pradesh Government has launched Bhuseva and Bhudaar web portal through which people can view land records online. People can get land record records online through these portals using Aadhaar card. Bhudaar security policy was also launched to provide security to the land records of farmers. Bhudaar: It is 11 digit unique identification code to be assigned to each agriculture land holding and rural and urban property. It will allow people to get land details on their mobile phones. It will help to transparency in land records. It provides information related to all transactions of particular land or property in single source. It will also provide history of transactions initially for the past 12 years. Revenue, Panchayat Raj, Municipal Administration, registration, survey & settlement, forest, endowments and waqf departments are engaged in making this service available to the people. Unique ID for permanent Bhudaar will start with 28 and if it is government land, 28 is followed by 00. Bhudaar card can be generated by the land owner or property owner from Bhuseva web portal. Two types of Bhudaar cards are available including e-Bhudaar and M-Bhudaar. Under Mobile Bhudaar, one has to download application on mobile. One can also get Bhudaar card from Mee Seva centres.

    39) Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired Cabinet Committee of Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved continuation of nine sub-schemes of umbrella scheme “Atmosphere & Climate Research-Modelling Observing Systems & Services (ACROSS)” during 2017-2020. The scheme aims at improving skill of weather and climate forecast through sustained observations, intensive Research & Development. ACROSS Scheme: The scheme pertains to the atmospheric science programs of the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES). Its objective is to provide reliable weather and climate forecast for betterment of society. It also aims at improving skill of weather and climate forecast through sustained observations, intensive R & D. It consists of nine sub-programmes which are multi-disciplinary and multi institutional in nature and will be implemented in integrated manner. It seeks to addresses different aspects of weather and climate services, which includes warnings for cyclone, storm surges, heat waves, thunderstorms etc. Each of these aspects is incorporated as nine sub-schemes under umbrella scheme ACROSS and is implemented in integrated manners. Benefits of Scheme: It will provide improved weather, climate and ocean forecast and services, thereby ensuring transfer of commensurate benefits to the various services. It will also provide a sizable number of scientific and technical staff along with requisite administrative support, thereby generating employment. It will generate employment opportunities to many people as large number of agencies like the Krishi Vigyana Kendras of ICAR, Universities and local municipalities are roped to ensure last-mile connectivity of the weather based services to the end –user. Background: Union Ministry of Earth Sciences has mandate to carry out R&D activities to develop and improve capability to forecast weather, climate and natural hazard related phenomena. Towards this direction, it has undertaken several initiatives to formulate specific schemes like weather and climate modelling, monsoon-research, climate change science & climate services etc. These schemes involve multi-institutes wherein each unit has designated role for accomplishing aforesaid tasks. As result, all these schemes with specific objectives and budget are implemented in an integrated manner and are put together under the umbrella scheme “ACROSS”.

    40) Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid foundation stone of City Gas Distribution (CGD) Projects of Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in 65 Geographical Areas (GAs) in 129 districts under 9th CGD bidding round. He also launched 10th CGD Bidding Round in 50 GAs spread over 124 districts in 14 states. Natural gas is superior fuel as compared with coal and other liquid fuels, as it is environment friendly, safer and cheaper fuel. It can be supplied through pipelines and hence, there is no need to store cylinders in kitchen and thus saves space. It is environment friendly fuel and its usage as domestic kitchen fuel, as fuel for transport sector as well as fuel for industries and commercial units can play a significant role in reducing carbon emission. It is 60% cheaper compared with petrol and around 45% cheaper when compared with Diesel. Implementation Process: Around 96 cities and districts in different parts of the country were covered for development of CGD networks till September 2018. As per commitment made by various entities in 9th bidding round, around 2 crore PNG (Domestic) connections and 4600 CNG stations are expected to be installed across the country in next 8 years. Various pre-project activities for these GAs already have commenced and efforts are being made to commence the physical works at the site. To further boost expansion of PNG/CNG network in India, Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) has launched 9th CGD bidding round in April, 2018 for 86 GAs covering 174 districts in 22 States/UTs. Significance: The development of CGD networks across India is focused to increase availability of cleaner cooking fuel such as PNG and transportation fuel (CNG) to all the citizens of the country. Its expansion will benefit industrial and commercial units by ensuring the uninterrupted supply of natural gas. It will also expand the potential coverage of CGDs to about 50% of country’s population, spreading over 35% of the area. Background: Currently, share of natural gas in India’s energy mix is just over 6% and aim is to reach 15% figure for mowing towards gas based economy, while world average is 24%. India aims to bring down its carbon emission level and number of initiatives have been taken in this direction such as BS VI fuel, bio-energy, LED bulbs, International Solar Alliance (ISA), Pradhan Mantri Ujjawala Yojana and providing clean piped gas supply to more cities. India is also be enhancing LNG terminal capacity, renegotiating Indo-Qatar Gas deal and encouraging positive Indo-US engagement in this direction. It is not only focussing on increasing use and supply of gas, but also on producing gas through agro-wastes and other products and including same into CGD network. It has also increased its focus on promoting the usage of environment-friendly clean fuel, natural gas as fuel and feedstock across country to move towards gas based economy.

    41) Union Cabinet has approved extension of term of Commission to examine issue of Sub-categorization of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in Central List for six months beyond 30th November, 2018 and till 31st May 2019. This is fourth extension granted to commission for submission of its politically crucial report on creating quotas within quotas. Background: Union Government with approval of President had constituted five member Commission under article 340 of Constitution in October, 2017. It is headed by former Chief Justice of Delhi High Court Justice (Retd) G. Rohini. Its report is expected to recommend earmarking sub-quotas for the extremely backward classes within the OBCs. The commission has been formed under Article 340 of the Constitution which was also used to establish landmark Mandal Commission (set up in 1979) more than two decades ago which recommended 27% reservation for socially and educationally backward classes in higher education and government jobs. Over the years, benefits of this reservation were mostly cornered mostly by dominant OBC groups. Even National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC) had in 2015 had noted that unequals cannot be treated equally and recommended that OBCs be categorised into extremely backward classes, more backward classes and backward classes. At present, 11 states have sub-categorised OBCs for their state services. Centre based on devise a similar methodology for the central OBC list. Mandate of Sub-categorisation commission: It is tasked to examine extent of inequitable distribution of benefits of reservation among castes included in broad category of OBC in central government jobs and educational institutions especially with reference to OBCs included in Central list. It is also tasked to take up exercise of identifying respective castes, sub-castes, communities synonyms in Central List of OBCs and classify them into their respective sub-categories. It is mandated was to work out mechanism, norms, criteria and parameters, in scientific approach, for sub-categorization within such OBCs.

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