W.B.C.S Current Affairs 30 June 2018 to 05 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 30 June 2018 to 05 July 2018.

1) The standing committee of National Board for Wildlife (NBWL) has recently added four species- Northern River Terrapin, Clouded Leopard, Arabian Sea Humpback Whale and Red Panda into Centre’s Recovery Programme for Critically Endangered Species. They were added on the recommendation by Wildlife Division of Ministry of Environment and Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC). Key Facts: Norther River Terrapin: It is species of riverine turtle found in rivers that flow in Eastern India. It is hunted for its meat and carapace. It is native of Bangladesh, Cambodia, India, Indonesia and Malaysia. Clouded Leopard: It is found in Himalayan foothills. It is threatened due to habitat loss, poaching for its skin and is also as a live pet trade. The IUCN in its Red List assessment of 2016 has categorized Clouded Leopard as ‘Vulnerable’ and indicating declining trend in its population. Arabian Sea Humpback Whale: It is a species found in all of major oceans. This species migrates from the Oman coast through the Arabian sea, along the Indian coasts till the Sri Lankan coast. Ship strikes, unforgiving fishing gear and siesmic exploarations pose grave threat to it. Red Panda: It is closely associated with montane forests with dense bamboo-thicket. It is found Sikkim, West Bengal and Arunachal Pradesh. It is poached for its meat, and for use in medicines, and as a pet. The IUCN has categorized Red Panda as ‘Endangered’. As per its Red List assessment of 2015, population of this species is decreasing. Recovery Programme for Critically Endangered Species: The progamme is one of the three components of centrally funded scheme, Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH). It was started in 2008-09. IDWH is meant for providing support to protected areas (national parks, wildlife sanctuaries, conservation reserves and community reserves except tiger reserves), protection of wildlife outside protected areas and recovery programmes for saving critically endangered species and habitats. So far, 17 species were identified under this recovery programme. These are Snow Leopard, Bustard (including Floricans), Dolphin, Nilgiri Tahr, Hangul, Marine Turtles, Edible Nest Swiftlet, Dugongs, Asian Wild Buffalo, Nicobar Megapode, Manipur Brow-antlered Deer, Vultures, Malabar Civet, Indian Rhinoceros, Asiatic Lion, Swamp Deer and Jerdon’s Courser.

2) The Union Cabinet has approved The DNA Technology (Use and Application) Regulation Bill 2018. The Bill aims at expanding application of DNA-based forensic technologies to support and strengthen justice delivery system of the country. Key Features of the Bill: It allows law enforcement agencies to collect DNA samples, create “DNA profiles” and special databanks for forensic-criminal investigations. It states that all DNA data, including DNA samples, DNA profiles and records, will be only used for identification of the person and not for any other purpose. It creates DNA Profiling Board (DPB) that will be final authority that will authorise creation of State-level DNA databanks, approve the methods of collection and analysis of DNA-technologies. It makes accreditation and regulation mandatory for DNA laboratories. It allows government to set up DNA data banks across India to store profiles. These banks will maintain national database for identification of victims, accused, suspects, undertrials, missing persons and unidentified human remains. It also empowers government to impose jail term of up to 3 years and fine of up to Rs. 1 lakh on those who leak information stored in such facilities. It prescribes similar punishment for those who seek information on DNA profiles illegally. Significance: Bill will ensure that with proposed expanded use of DNA profiling technology in the country, there will be also assurance that DNA test results are reliable and data remain protected from misuse or abuse in terms of the privacy rights of our citizens. It will also ensure speedier justice delivery and increased conviction rate. It will also enable cross-matching between persons who have been reported missing on one hand and unidentified dead bodies found in various parts of the country on other, and also for establishing the identity of victims in mass disasters. It will set in place, an institutional mechanism to collect and deploy DNA technologies to identify persons based on samples collected from crime scenes or for identifying missing persons. Background: The utility of forensic DNA profiling based technologies for solving crimes and to identify missing persons is well recognized across the world. It has proven value in solving cases involving offences that are categorized as affecting human body (such as rape, murder, human trafficking or grievous hurt) and those against property (including burglary, theft and dacoity). The aggregate incidence of such crimes in the country, as per statistics of the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) is in excess of 3 lakhs per year in the year 2016. Of these, only very small proportion is being subjected to DNA testing. The expanded use of DNA profiling technology in these criminal cases will result in speedier justice delivery and also in increased conviction rates, which at present is only around 30% (NCRB Statistics for 2016).

3) Union Cabinet has approved creation of one post each of Vice-Chairperson and Member in the National Commission for Safai Karmacharis (NCSK). The decision aims at optimizing functioning of NCSK and fulfilling desired objectives of welfare and development of target group. At present, it has sanctioned strength of four members and a chairperson. With this posts, sanctioned strength of NCSK will be one Chairperson, one Vice-Chairperson and five members. National Commission for Safai Karamcharis (NCSK): NCSK is statutory body established under National Commission for Safai Karamcharis Act, 1993. It was established in 1994 to deal with the grievances of persons engaged in manual scavenging. It aims to promote and safeguard interests and rights of Safai Karamcharis and Manual Sacavengers and works for welfare of both. It is mandated to work towards elimination of inequalities in status facilities and opportunities for Safai Karamcharis. It has important role to ensure rehabilitation of all identified manual scavengers on time-bound basis. It is mandate is to study, evaluate and monitor implementation of various schemes for Safai Karamcharis as autonomous organisation. Under Section 31 of Prohibition of Employment as Manual Scavengers and their Rehabilitation Act 2013, NCSK perform flowing functions. Monitor implementation of Act. Enquire into complaints regarding contravention of provisions of Act. Advice Central and State Governments for effective implementation of Act. Working for welfare of both Safai Karamcharis and Manual Sacavengers.

4) The Union Cabinet has approved India’s accession to WIPO Copyright Treaty, 1996 and WIPO Performers and Phonograms Treaty, 1996 which extends coverage of copyright to the internet and digital environment. The proposal was submitted by Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Key Facts: The approval is step towards objective laid in National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy adopted by Government which aims to get value for IPRs through commercialization by providing guidance and support to EPR (End Point Royalties) owners about commercial opportunities of e-commerce through Internet and mobile platforms. Both treaties provide framework for creators and right owners to use technical tools to protect their works and safeguard information about their use i.e. Rights Management Information (RMI) and Protection of Technological Protection Measures (TPMs). Benefits: These treaties will help India to enable creative right-holders enjoy fruit of their labour, through international copyright system that can be used to secure return on investment made in producing and distributing creative works. It will also facilitate international protection of domestic rights holder by providing them level-playing field in other countries as India already extends protection to foreign works through International Copyright order and these treaties will enable Indian right holders to get reciprocal protection abroad. It will instil confidence and distribute creative works in digital environment with return on investment and spur business growth and contribute to the development of a vibrant creative economy and cultural landscape. Copyright Act, 1957: Copyright Act, 1957 governs the subject of copyright law in the country. Its administration was transferred to DIPP in March 2016. The Act was amended in 2012 to bring it in conformity, with WCT and WPPT. It includes amendment in definition of Communication to the public to make it applicable to digital environment (Section 2(ff)) as also introduced provisions related to Technological. It also includes Protection Measures (Section 65A) ad Rights Management Information (Section 65B); Moral rights of performers (Section 38B); Exclusive rights of the performers (Section 38A); safe harbour provisions over electronic medium (Section 52 (1) (b) and (c)), WIPO Copyright Treaty: It came in force in March 2002 and has been adopted by 96 contracting parties till date. It is Special agreement under Berne Convention (for protection of literary and artistic works). It has provisions to extend protection of copyrights contained therein to the digital environment. It also recognises rights specific to digital environment of making work available, to address on-demand and other interactive modes of access. WIPO Performances and Phonograms Treaty: It came in force on May 2002 and has been adopted by 96 contracting parties. It deals with rights of two kinds of beneficiaries, particularly in digital environment. In includes (i) Performers (singers, musicians, actors etc.) (ii) Producers of Phonograms (Sound recordings). It empowers right owners in negotiations with new digital platforms and distributors. It also recognizes moral rights of performers for first time and provides exclusive economic rights to them.

5) Union Cabinet has approved extension of scheme of recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) for next three years (upto 2019-20). This will enable RRBs to maintain minimum prescribed Capital to Risk Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of 9%. It will ensure strong capital structure and minimum required level of CRAR. This will facilitate financial stability of RRBs and enable them to play greater role in financial inclusion and meeting credit requirements of rural areas. Key Facts: The scheme of Recapitalization of RRBs was started in 2010-11 and was extended twice in the year 2012-13 and 2015-16. The last extension was upto March 2017. Total amount of Rs. 1107.20 crore, as Central Government share, out of Rs. 1450 crore, was released to RRBs upto March, 2017. The remaining amount of Rs.342.80 crore will be utilized to provide recapitalization support to RRBs whose CRAR is below 9%, during the extended three years period. This will be in addition to announcement made in 2018-19 Budget for relating to allowing financially strong RRBs to raise capital from sources other than Central Government, State Government and Sponsor Bank. The identification of RRBs requiring recapitalization and amount of capital to be provided will be decided in consultation with NABARD. Regional Rural Banks (RRBs): RRBs were set up as government-sponsored, regional based rural lending institutions under Regional Rural Banks Act, 1976. They are scheduled commercial banks (Government banks) and are configured as hybrid micro banking institutions, combining local orientation and small scale lending culture of cooperatives and business culture of commercial banks. Objective: They have been created with a view to serve primarily rural areas of India with basic banking and financial services. They fulfill credit needs of relatively unserved sections in rural areas-small and marginal farmers, agricultural labourers and socio-economically weaker sections and small entrepreneurs in rural areas for development of agriculture, trade, commerce, industry and other productive activities. RRBs can also set branches set up for urban operations and their area of operation may include semi urban or urban areas too. Ownership: RRBs are jointly owned by Central Government, concerned State Government and Sponsor Banks with the issued capital shared in the proportion of 50%, 15% and 35% respectively. Functions: provide banking facilities to rural and semi-urban areas, they carry out government operations like disbursement of wages of MGNREGA workers, distribution of pensions etc, they provide para-Banking facilities like locker facilities, debit and credit cards. They can also function as Small financial banks.

6) The Union Cabinet approved proposal of renaming Agartala Airport in Tripura as ‘Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Kishore Airport, Agartala. The decision comes in the wake of long pending demand of people of Tripura as well as Government of Tripura for paying tribute to Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Kishore. Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Kishore: He was the king of Tripura from 1923 to 1947 before its merger with India. He was enlightened and benevolent ruler. He is considered the father of modern architecture in Tripura, as entire planning of present-day Tripura was initiated during his rule. As a visionary ruler, he had travelled extensively across globe and took several steps for all-round development of Tripura. He is also considered one of the pioneers in land reforms. In 1939, he reserved land for local Tripura tribals, which was later instrumental in creation of Tripura autonoumus district council. Background: Agartala Airport was constructed in 1942 on the land donated by Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Kishore. Due to his initiative, an aerodrome at Agartala was constructed that has evolved as second busiest airport in North East and provides crucial air connectivity to Tripura. Hence, Agartala Airport was renamed after him as a befitting tribute to Maharaja Bir Bikram Manikya Kishore.

7) The Union Cabinet has approved continuance of 8 existing schemes of Ministry of Home Affairs for relief and rehabilitation of migrants and repatriates upto March 2020 under Umbrella scheme Relief and Rehabilitation of Migrants and Repatriates. The schemes will provide relief and rehabilitation assistance to refugees, displaced persons, civilian victims of terrorist, communal, Left Wing Extremism (LWE) violence and cross border firing and mine and IED blasts on Indian territory and riot victims of various incidents etc. 8 schemes are: Central Assistance for one-time settlement of displaced families from Pak Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (PoJK) and Chhamb settled in J&K. Rehabilitation Package and up-gradation of infrastructure of Bangladeshi Enclaves and Cooch Behar District after transfer of enclaves between India and Bangladesh under Land Boundary Agreement (LBA). Relief assistance to Sri Lankan refugees staying in camps in Tamil Nadu and Odisha. Grant-in-Aid to Central Tibetan Relief Committee (CTRC) for 5 years for administrative and social welfare expenses of Tibetan settlements. Grant-in-Aid to Tripura Government for maintenance of Brus lodged in relief camps of Tripura. Rehabilitation of Bru and Reang families from Tripura to Mizoram. Grant of enhanced relief of Rs. 5.00 lakh per deceased person, who died during 1984 Anti-Sikh Riots. Central Scheme for Assistance to Civilian Victims, Family of Victims of Terrorist, Communal, LWE Violence and Cross Border Firing and Mine and IED blasts on Indian Territory. Background: The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) had launched 8 schemes at different points of time to enable migrants and repatriates, who have suffered on account of displacement to earn.

8) Madhya Pradesh Government has Sambal Yojana, an outstanding power bill waiver scheme and subsidised power scheme for labourers and poor families. Under this scheme, Below Poverty Line (BPL) families and registered labourers of unorganised sector from the state will be provided electricity at cost of Rs 200 per month, Sambal Yojana: The objective of scheme is to make sure that all households have power facility in the state. The beneficiaries will be provided with power free of cost connection. Intended Beneficiaries: Below Poverty Line (BPL) families and registered labourers of unorganised sector are targeted beneficiaries of the scheme. People not using air-conditioners, electric heaters and whose power consumption is below 1000 watts would be eligible for this scheme. It will benefit more than 88 lakh families in the state. So far, around one crore 83 lakh workers are registered under the scheme. Key Features of the scheme: Under its subsidised power segment, registered labourers of unorganised sector and BPL families will be provided with electricity at Rs 200 per month. In case the bill is lower than Rs 200, beneficiaries will have to pay actual bill amount and if bill amount is crossing Rs 200 then, difference amount will be subsidised by state government. Pending dues of beneficiaries will be waived off completely under scheme. The beneficiaries of the scheme will be able to operate fan, television and bulbs.

9) United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has appointed Major General José Eladio Alcain of Uruguayan Army as Head of Mission and Chief Military Observer for UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP). He will succeed Major General Per Gustaf Lodin of Sweden, who completed his two-year assignment. UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP): UNMOGIP has been established by UN Security Council (UNSC) Resolution and started its operations in 1949. It has been tasked with monitoring the ceasefire line or tasked with monitoring the ceasefire line between nuclear-armed India and Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir. UNMOGIP has 44 military observers, 25 international civilian personnel from 10 countries and 47 local civilian staff. The group is financed by the United Nations regular budget. Mandate: UNMOGIP’s military observers conduct field tasks (field trip, area recce, field visit and observation post) along LoC. As part of 1949 Karachi Agreement, it also conducts investigations into alleged ceasefire violation complaints, which two parties (India and Pakistan) can submit to it. Its findings of investigations are shared with UN Secretary-General and summary of investigations with two parties. India’s Opposition: India has maintained that UNMOGIP has outlived its utility and is irrelevant after the Shimla (Accord) Agreement and consequent establishment of Line of Control (LoC) in 1971. In Shimla Agreement, India and Pakistan had agreed to change ceasefire line to LoC and held that they will resolve their disputes bilaterally without third party interference. In 2014, India had asked UNMOGIP to wind up its work in Kashmir and in 2017, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had reiterated that UNMOGIP does not have mandate to monitor situation in Kashmir. However, Pakistan continues to welcome UNMOGIP mission based there. On India opposition, UN Secretary-General has held that given the disagreement between India and Pakistan about UNMOGIP’s mandate and functions, it can only be terminated by decision of UN Security Council.

10) The Election Commission of India has launched Cvigil mobile application for citizens to report any violation of the Model Code of Conduct (MCC) during elections. The app aims at empowering people across the country to share evidence of malpractice by political parties, their candidates and activists directly with ECI. At present its beta version has been released and will be made available for use during forthcoming Assembly elections Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Mizoram and Rajasthan. Features of cVigil: It will allow anyone in election-bound state to report violations of MCC. By using this app, vigilant citizens can immediately report on incidents of misconduct anonymously and in real-time by clicking picture or record video of upto two minutes and uploading it on the app. The identity of the complainant will be kept confidential and will be provided with Unique ID to track and receive the follow up updates on the mobile. The app also has inbuilt features to prevent its misuse. It will be active only in States where elections have been announced. The app also facilitates sharing of geo-tagged photographic and video evidence without disclosing identity of sender. The uploaded information will be transmitted to control room and from there to field units or flying squads, mapped on Geographic Information System (GIS) for further action. Background: So far, complaints about violations of MCC often were not followed instantly, leading to violators escaping detection from action squads. Besides, lack of any documented evidence in form of pictures or videos was seen as hurdle in verifying complaint. Further, absence of robust response system to quickly and accurately identify scene of occurrence of violations with help of geographical location details hampered election officers’ ability to apprehend violators. The cVigil app is expected to fill in all these gaps and create fast-track complaint reception and redressal system.

11) The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) launched its in-house developed, single-umbrella e-marketing system named Khadi Institution Management and Information System (KIMIS) in New Delhi. The system can be accessed from anywhere in the country for sale and purchase of Khadi and Village Industries products. Khadi Institution Management and Information System (KIMIS): KIMIS will serve as in-house single umbrella billing software for sale and purchase that could be monitored, round-the-clock, from any part of India. It has been developed by KVIC IT team. It will give real-time data of sales and also give updated status of stocks of khadi bhawans and godowns, allowing better planning and control of inventory. 480 Khadi institutions and showrooms of KVIC will be linked with this billing software. The software will be useful in raising demand and supply of goods in high demand. Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC): KVIC is a statutory body formed under the Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act, 1956. It is an apex organization under the aegis of Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Functions of KVIC: It plans, promotes, organizes and implements programmes for development of Khadi and village industries in rural areas. It creates and manages reserves of raw materials and supplying them to producers, creating common service facilities for processing of raw material and semi-finished goods. It promotes sales and marketing of Khadi Products. It also encourages and promotes.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 30 June 2018 to 05 July 2018.

12) NITI Aayog is going to organise ‘MOVE: Global Mobility Summit’ on September 7-8, 2018 collaboration with various ministries and industry partners. The summit will be held in New Delhi and will be inaugurated by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It will help to drive India’s goals for vehicle electrification, renewable energy integration and job growth, thus, speeding up India’s transition to a clean energy economy. MOVE: Global Mobility Summit: Objectives: The summit aims to bring together and engage with key stakeholders within rapidly transforming global mobility landscape and to evolve public interest framework for shared, connected, zero emission agenda for the future. It also aims to encourage synergies between indigenous industries such as automobile manufacturing, information technology, electronics, telecommunications to integrate with global supply chains. It also envisages mobility as key driver for generating employment, providing innovative solutions to improve efficiency and efficacy of transport sector and accelerate economic growth. Key Features: The summit will feature global political leaders from mobility space and will see participation of over 1200 participants from across world including government leadership, research organizations, academia, industry leaders, think tanks and civil society organisations. Key Themes: The summit will be organised along key tracks (themes) to anchor debate and deliberations on towards preparing collective mobility agenda. These themes or tracks are asset utilization and services, comprehensive electrification, alternative energy, reinventing public transit and logistics and goods transport.

13) The Union Ministry of Defence has sanctioned construction of 17 new baffle firing ranges at various Military Stations, Cantonments, Training Establishments. The proposed baffle shooting ranges can facilitate firing from 300 to 500 meters. Key Facts: These 17 new firing ranges will be in addition to 60 similar firing ranges existing all over the country. They will come at Southern Command (7 ranges), Eastern Command (3), Northern Command (2), South Western (1) and Central Commands (1). Besides, one range is proposed at Central Command for Officers Training Academy, Gaya, Bihar. Background: Baffle firing ranges are covered shooting practice areas which prevent possible accidents due to stray bullet injuries. In recent times, due to growth of civilian population around cantonments areas, possibility of accidents due to stray bullet injuries have increased. In order to prevent accidents and casualties without affecting the training requirements of Armed Forces new baffle ranges were approved.

14) Payments Council of India (PCI) has appointed Vishwas Patel, Director at Infibeam Avenues as its new Chairman. He will take over from Naveen Surya, who has been elevated to post of Chairman Emeritus. He has been associated with PCI since its inception in 2013 and was serving as PCI’s co-Chairman. PCI also has appointed Loney Antony, Managing Director, Hitachi Payment Services, as its new co-Chairman. Payments Council of India (PCI): PCI is an apex non-governmental body representing companies in payments and settlement system. It was formed in 2013 under aegis of IAMAI (Internet and Mobile Association of India) to cater needs of digital payment industry in India. It was formed for representing various regulated non-banking payment industry players and to help resolve various industry level issues and barriers in payments and settlement system. It works with all its members to promote payments industry growth and support goal of ‘Cash to Less Cash Society’ and ‘Growth of Financial Inclusion’ which is also vision shared by Government of India and Reserve Bank of India (RBI). PCI works closely with regulators i.e. RBI, Finance Ministry and any similar government, departments, bodies or institutions to make ‘India a less cash society’.

15) Telangana Government has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Singapore-based engineering & consulting firm Surbana Jurong for preparing roadmap for Genome Valley 2.0. It will be an upgraded version of life sciences and biotechnology industrial cluster state’s capital city Hyderabad. Genome Valley: Genome Valley is India’s first organized pharma-biotech cluster for life sciences R&D activities and largest life sciences destination in Asia, being home to over 200 companies employing 10,000 people. It is already home to multinationals such as Novartis, GlaxoSmithKline, DuPont, Mylan, US Pharmacopeia among others. It includes 6 of world’s top 10 R&D companies and three of India’s largest vaccine manufacturers. The cluster was conceptualized in 1999 in Shamirpet, Hyderabad, India. It is spread over 600 sq kms in vicinity of Hyderabad. It is India’s first systematically developed R&D cluster, boasting world-class infrastructure facilities in form of Industrial/Knowledge Parks, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Multi-tenanted wet laboratories and Incubation facilities. It synergizes a healthy mix of companies in realm of biopharma, vaccine manufacturing, agri-biotech, Clinical Research Management (CRM), regulatory and testing, and other related areas. Genome Valley 2.0: Genome Valley 2.0 is vision to upgrade cluster into world-class knowledge led integrated corridor in self-sufficient life sciences ecosystem. It is being envisioned to transform into industry led knowledge based ecosystem to become a driver for local economic development. It will introduce world class knowledge cluster and lay master plan to transform the ecosystem into a smart satellite town of Hyderabad. Its expansion will enable more global companies to establish and expand their operations.

16) Indigenous fighter aircraft Tejas of No 45 Squadron (The Flying Daggers) of Indian Air Force (IAF) has formally commenced operations from Sulur Air Force Station in Tamil Nadu. With deployment of Tejas, its squadron ‘Flying Daggers’ took up active wartime role towards safeguarding national skies. Key Facts: Southern Air Command (SAC) based at Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala has been entrusted with responsibility of integrating Tejas fighter aircraft in IAF’s Concept of Operations. It has been involved in training aircrew of fighter aircraft Tejas. Sulur Air Force Station will now undertake operations and maintenance of the indigenous fighter aircraft. Tejas figher aircraft: Tejas is the first advanced fly-by-wire Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) designed, developed and manufactured indigenously by state owned Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL). It is lightweight single-seat multi-role jet fighter. It has been pegged as world’s smallest and lightest supersonic fighter. It is powered by a single engine. It has tailless and compound delta wing design. It was developed and manufactured under Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) programme, which began in the 1980s to replace India’s ageing MiG-21 fighters. It is equipped with satellite-aided Inertial Navigation System. It has digital computer-based attack system and autopilot mode. It can fire Air to Air missiles, carry bombs and precision guided ammunition. It has limited reach of a little over 400-km. It will be mainly used for close air-to-ground operations. Note: LCA Tejas is not India’s first indigenous fighter to be inducted into IAF. In April 1967, IAF had formed the first operational squadron with the indigenous HF-24 Marut fighter.

17) The 5th Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) intersessional ministerial meeting was held in Tokyo, Japan. It was ×rst RCEP ministerial gathering to be held outside ASEAN countries. It was co-chaired by Singapore’s Minister of Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing and his Japanese counterpart Hiroshige Seko. Key Facts During the meeting, ministers from member countries had in-depth discussions on issues such as trade, service, investment and rules at the meeting. They recognized importance of early conclusion o RCEP negotiations consistent. They also reaf×rmed their resolve to work together and achieve agreement that will allow economies of different levels of development to actively participate in and bene×t from open and inclusive regional economic integration. Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) RCEP is a proposed proposed free trade agreement (FTA) or comprehensive regional economic integration agreement between the 10-ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) and its six FTA partners (Australia, New Zealand, India, China, Japan and Korea). Its negotiations were formally launched at 2012 ASEAN Summit in Cambodia RCEP is viewed as an alternative to the Trans-Paci×c Partnership (TPP), a proposed trade agreement that includes several Asian and American nations but excludes China and India.

18) India has agreed to provide tariff concessions on 3,142 products to Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA) members, from July 1, 2018. The tariff concessions are implementation of results of fourth round of negotiations under APTA, which were formally concluded and signed by the ministers of member countries during meeting of APTA Ministerial Council in January, 2017. Key Facts: With this implementation of the Fourth Round, the coverage of preferences of total tariff lines for each member will come of 10,677 tariff lines (up from 4,270 items at conclusion of 3rd Round). It will also deepen average Margin of Preference (MoP) being provided under agreement to 31.52%. The LDC members are entitled to greater concessions on 1,249 items with average MoP of 81% under special and differential treatment provisions of APTA. Asia Pacific Trade Agreement (APTA): APTA is an initiative under United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN ESCAP) for trade expansion through exchange of tariff concessions among developing country members of Asia Pacific Region. It is preferential trade agreement (PTA), under which basket of items as well as extent of tariff concessions are enlarged during trade negotiating rounds which are launched from time to time. APTA was signed in 1975 and was formerly known as Bangkok agreement (renamed to present name in 2005). UNESCAP’s Trade and Investment Division in Bangkok, Thailand serves its secretariat. It is the first plurilateral and oldest preferential trade agreement among developing countries in Asia-Pacific .The six member countries of APTA are Bangladesh, China, India, Laos, Korea and Sri Lanka. APTA aims to promote economic development through adoption of mutually beneficial trade liberalization measures that will contribute to intra-regional trade expansion and provides for economic integration through coverage of merchandise goods, services, investment and trade facilitation.

19) According to Index of Eight Core Industries released by Ministry of Commerce and Industry, the growth of eight core infrastructure industries has dropped to 10-month low of 3.6% in May 2018 due to decline in production of crude oil and natural gas. This is the lowest growth rate since July 2017 when eight core infrastructure industries had expanded by 2.9%. The growth rate recorded in April 2018 stood higher at 4.6%. In April and May 2018, the eight industries recorded 4.1% growth compared to 3.3% in same period in 2017. Sector wise breakaway in May 2018: Core industries- Core industries can be defined as main or key industries of the economy. In most countries, these particular industry are backbone of all other industries. In India, there are eight core sectors comprising of coal, crude oil, natural gas, petroleum refinery products, fertilisers, steel, cement and electricity. The eight infrastructure sectors, constitute 40.27% of the total index of industrial production (IIP). Revised weightage in core sectors: Petroleum Refinery production (weight: 28.04%), Electricity generation (19.85%), Steel production (17.92%), Coal production (10.33%), Crude Oil production (8.98%), Natural Gas production (6.88%), Cement production (5.37%), Fertilizers production (2.63%).

20) Numaligarh Re×nery Ltd (NRL) in Assam became ×rst oil public sector undertaking (PSU) in India to adopt an online legal compliance system by introducing ‘Legatrix‘. This initiative aims to induce greater transparency NRL’s operations and augment its contribution towards Digital India Mission of the Government. Legatrix Legatrix is cloud-based compliance management system to serve as onestop solution for effectively managing organisations legal and regulatory compliances through monitoring control at different levels. It encompasses requirements of laws like labour, IT, taxation, commercial, export-import, corporate laws and other industry-speci×c laws. It will support risk tracking and compliance on realtime basis along with creation of centralised repository, auto-generated reports and certi×cates, compliance calendar and immediate updates for legal and regulatory amendments. Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL) NRL is public sector oil company in Assam. It is under administrative control of Union Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. It is located at Morangi, Golaghat district, Assam in India. It is joint venture between Bharat Petroleum (61.65%), Oil India (26%) and Government of Assam (12.35%). It has capacity of 3 million metric tonnes (mmt) per year.

21) Supreme Court has extended deadline for publication of final draft of Assam’s National Register of Citizens (NRC) from earlier June 30, 2018 to July 31, 2018. This extension comes after Central Government and the state coordinator of NRC agreed to publish it within the new time limit. Key Facts: The NRC is being prepared to identify illegal migrants in Assam. The major northeastern state had faced influx of people from Bangladesh since early 20th century. It is the only state having an NRC, which was first prepared in 1951. SC for giving extension to deadline had considered report of state NRC coordinator. The report had mentioned that it would be not be possible to release final draft of the NRC as scheduled on June 30, 2018 due to the floods in state. National Register of Citizens (NRC): NRC contains the names of bona fide Indian Citizens of Assam that distinguish them from the foreigners. It is updated periodically. However, in Assam the updation could not be carried on since 1951 due to various political tensions such as Assam Movement of 1980s, the language movement and other ethnic movements. It was first updated in 1951 but since then it has been not updated due to various political tensions such as Assam Movement of 1980s, language movement and other ethnic movements. But now it is being updated in time bound manner after Supreme Court judgment (2014) to incorporate Assam Accord of 1985 in order to tackle the issue of illegal immigration from Bangladesh. NRC is being updated as per provisions of Citizenship Act, 1955 and Citizenship (Registration of Citizens and Issue of National Identity Cards) Rules, 2003. It will include names of person or their descendants whose name appear in NRC 1951 or any of Electoral Rolls up to midnight of 24th March 1971. The actual implementation of NRC is done by Statutory Authorities i.e. Local Registrars and District Magistrates appointed by State Government. A senior official of State Government functions as State Coordinator and coordinates with Registrar General of Citizen Registration (RGI) in regard to various activities.

22) The Delhi government launched ‘Happiness Curriculum’ which includes meditation, moral values and mental exercises for its school students. It was launched by Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal in the presence of the Dalai Lama. Happiness Curriculum The Happiness Curriculum focuses on holistic education by including meditation, value education, and mental exercises in conventional education curriculum. It was designed and prepared by a team of 40 Delhi government teachers, educators and volunteers over period of six months. It involves ‘Happiness’ period of 45 minutes for all students studying in nursery up to class VIII at all Delhi government schools. Each class will begin with 5 minute meditation practice. The curriculum focuses on meditation, moral teachings, and mental exercises, with the aim of turning students into good human being.

23) According to Nikkei Manufacturing Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI), compiled by IHS Markit, India’s manufacturing growth jumps to sixmonth high in June 2018. Manufacturing PMI rose to 53.1 in June 2018 from 51.2 in May 2018, the highest since December 2017. This is the 11th consecutive month that the manufacturing PMI remained above the 50-point mark. The reading above 50 on index denotes expansion and less than that indicates contraction in activities. Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI) PMI is an indicator of business activity-both in the manufacturing and services sectors. It is a survey-based measure that asks respondents about changes in their perception of some key business variables from month before. It is calculated separately for manufacturing and services sectors and then composite index is constructed. Implications for economy PMI is usually released at start of month, much before most of of×cial data on industrial output, manufacturing and GDP growth is made available. It is, therefore, considered as good leading indicator of economic activity. Manufacturing growth measured by PMI is considered good indicator of industrial output.

24) The Union Government has constituted 13-member Committee for Sub-National Accounts to upgrade the norms for computation of economic data at states and districts level in backdrop of plans to revise the base year for National Accounts or Gross Domestic Production (GDP) calculation. It will be headed by Ravindra H Dholakia, a retired professor of IIM Ahmedabad. Terms of Reference of the Committee: The committee will review concepts, definitions, classifications, data conventions, data sources and data requirements for preparation of State Domestic Product (SDP) and District Domestic Product (DDP) and to lay down revised guidelines. It will also suggest measures for improving SDP and DDP in the country taking into consideration availability of data and requirements of Centre and States/UTs. It will also suggest state level annual and benchmark surveys keeping in view needs of System of National Accounts especially in view of next base year revision. It will submit its report within one year. Background: The Central Statistics Office (CSO), under Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation (MOSPI) revises the base year of macroeconomic indicators, as regular exercise, to capture structural changes in economy and improve quality and representativeness of indices. CSO had last updated base year for GDP calculation to 2011-12 from January 2015, replacing old series base year of 2004-05. MOSPI is planning to change base year to 2017-18 for calculation of GDP and Index Industrial Production (IIP) numbers from current 2011-12 with an aim to capture changes in the economy. At conference of central and state statistical organisations (COCSSO) earlier this year, it was suggested that same principles and concepts should be used while calculating SDP and DDP across the country to make data comparable.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 30 June 2018 to 05 July 2018.

25) Kerala Government has declared Kozhikode and Malappuram districts free from Nipah virus infection. These districts were declared as temporarily Nipah free as no positive case of the infecton was reported till completion of double incubation period of the virus. Earlier in June 2018, state government had lifted the travel advisory issued in the wake of the virus for travelling to any part of the state. It also had lifted high alert in districts and said the virus has been brought under control and its spread checked. Educational institutions were also reopened. Nipah Virus (NiV) Infection NiV infection is zoonotic disease (disease transmitted to humans from animals) that causes severe disease in both animals and humans. The organism which causes Nipah Virus encephalitis is RNA or Ribonucleic acid virus of family Paramyxoviridae, genus Henipavirus, and is closely related to Hendra virus. Origin: It was ×rst identi×ed in 1999 during outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia and Singapore. It gets its name from Sungai Nipah, a Malaysian village, where pig farmers became ill with encephalitis. In these subsequent outbreaks, there were no intermediate hosts of the virus. In Bangladesh in 2004, humans got infected after consuming date palm sap that had been contaminated by infected fruit bats. Natural Host: Fruit bats of Pteropodidae Family, Pteropus genus are natural host of the virus. The virus is present in bat urine and potentially, bat faeces, saliva, and birthing Øuids. Presumably, ×rst incidence of NiV infection occurred when pigs in Malaysian farms came in contact with fruit bats who had lost their habitats due to deforestation. Transmission: The virus spreads fast and is mostly fatal. Infected bats shed virus in their excretion and secretion. It cannot be transmitted through air. It is transmitted through direct contact with infected bats, pigs. Human to Human transmission from other NiV-infected people is also reported. Signs & Symptoms: NiV infection in humans has range of clinical presentations i.e., from asymptomatic infection to acute respitatory syndrome and fatal encephalitis (inØammation of brain). After exposure and incubation period of 5 to 14 days, illness presents with 3-4 days of fever and headache, followed by drowsiness, disorientation and mental confusion. These signs and symptoms can progress to coma within 24 to 48 hours. The mortality rate of patients infected with NiV infection is reportedly 70%. It is capable of causing diseases in domestic animals too. Treatment: There is no vaccine for NiV disease either for humans or animals. The main treatment for those infected is intensive supportive care and supportive medicines. NiV Infection can be prevented by avoiding exposure of infected people without protective gear. In disease prone areas, fruits strewn on the ground should not be eaten, for safety.

26) The National Doctors’ Day is observed every year on 1 July across India to express gratitude and acknowledge the dedication and commitment of the doctors’ towards our society. The observance of the day honours legendary physician and West Bengal’s second Chief Minister, Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy whose birth and death anniversary coincides on the same day. Indian Medical Association (IMA’s) theme for 2018 National Doctors’ Day is ‘Zero tolerance to violence against doctors and clinical establishment’, Dr Bidhan Chandra Roy: He was born on 1 July 1882 in Patna, Bihar and died on 1 July 1962 in Kolkata, West Bengal. He was highly respected physician and a renowned freedom fighter. He was the second Chief Minister of West Bengal and remained in his post for 14 years from 1948 until his death in 1962. He is often considered the great architect of West Bengal. He had founded five cities of West Bengal Durgapur, Bidhannagar, Ashokenagar, Kalyani and Habra. He was also a member of the Brahmo Samaj. He was an alumnus of the Medical College Calcutta of the University of Calcutta. He was awarded Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian award in 1961. The Union Government has instituted Dr BC Roy National Award in his memory. He was instrumental in formation of Indian Medical Association (IMA) in 1928 and also in establishment of Medical Council of India (MCI). The National Doctor’s Day was established by Central Government in 1991 to be recognized and celebrated every year on 1st of July i.e. on the birth and death anniversary of the most famous physician of India Dr. B C Roy.

27) Well-known sailor Commander Abhilash Tomy of Indian Navy has participated in historic Golden Globe Race (GGR), which commenced from Les Sables d’Olonne harbour in western France. He will be representing India in indigenously built sailing vessel Thuriya, a replica of 1950s sailing vessel Suhaili. The race is expected to end at Les Sables d’Olonne in April 2019. He is the only invitee from Asia to prestigious GGR. There are 18 participants, including one woman sailor, in the race. Commander Abhilash Tomy is only Indian to complete solo, non-stop circumnavigation of globe in 2012-13, on-board Indian Naval Sailing Vessel (INSV) Mhadei, and has covered 53,000 nautical miles under sail. Golden Globe Race (GGR) The GGR is being conducted by UK based sailing pioneer Sir Robin Knox Johnston to commemorate 50 years since the world’s ×rst solo non-stop circumnavigation by him on-board Indian-built boat Suhaili, in 1968. In this race, participants are required to sail around the world, singlehanded and non-stop. The race does not allow boat designs and technology newer than 1968. It is mandatory for participants to rely traditional means of navigation such as physical maps and observing stars. They are not allowed to use of the Global Positioning System (GPS), satellite communication or modern navigational aids. They are provided with satellite phone for medical emergencies.

28) The ninth and final meeting of Eminent Persons Group (EPG) on India-Nepal relations concluded in Kathmandu, capital city of Nepal. During this two day meeting, representatives from India and Nepal deliberated up on various bilateral issues including 1950 Peace and Friendship treaty, trade, transit and border. Key Facts: During the last meeting, EPG successfully prepared joint report which will be submitted to Prime Ministers of both the countries. It has agreed to update all the bilateral treaties and agreements reached in past between India and Nepal in line with the present reality of the two countries. EPG members from India included Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Mahendra P Lama, Jayanta Prasad and B C Upreti and from Nepal included Bhekh Bahadur Thapa, Nilambar Acharya, Suryanath Upadhyay and Rajan Bhattarai. Members from India include Bhagat Singh Koshyari, Mahendra P Lama, Jayanta Prasad and B C Upreti Background: The EPG was formed in January 2016 by Governments of Nepal and India for reviewing the entire gamut of Nepal-India relations and update bilateral agreements and treaties. It is a joint mechanism consisting experts and intellectuals from India and Nepal. There are four members each from Nepalese and Indian sides in the group. It is mandated to review various aspects of the bilateral relations including Nepal-India Friendship Treaty 1950 and provide suggestion on ways to reshape bilateral between the two countries. During earlier meetings of EPG, Nepali side had presented facts regarding need to review Nepal-India Peace and Friendship Treaty of 1950 so as to update is as required by time and situation. 1950 India-Nepal Treaty of Peace and Friendship: The treaty is a bilateral pact between India and Nepal aimed at establishing close strategic relationship between two South Asian neighbors. It was inked on July 31, 1950 at Kathmandu by then Prime Minister of Nepal Mohan Shamsher Jang Bahadur Rana and then Indian ambassador to Nepal Chadreshwar Narayan Singh. The treaty has 10 articles. It permits free movement of people and goods between two countries and close relationship and collaboration on matters of defence and foreign affairs. It envisages for eternal peace and friendship between two nations and recognizes and respect complete sovereignty, territorial integrity and independence of each other. According to Articles 6 and 7 of the treaty, the two countries agree to grant, on reciprocal basis, to citizens of one country in territories of other, same privileges in matter of residence, ownership of property, participation in trade and commerce, movement and other privileges of similar nature. This enables the Nepali and Indian nationals to move freely across border without passport or visa, live and work in either country and own property or do trade or business in either country. There is a significant number of Nepalis (in millions) living, owning property and working or doing business in India as beneficial aspect of treaty for Nepal. Similarly, many Indians live, own property and do business in Nepal.

29) India and Pakistan have exchanged lists of civilian prisoners and fishermen lodged in each other’s jails. The list was shared as per the provision of bilateral agreement on consular access signed between both countries in May 2008. Under it, lists of prisoners have to be exchanged twice every year – on January 1 and July 1. Key Facts In the latest exchange, Pakistan has shared with India list of 53 civilian prisoners and 418 fishermen in its custody, who are Indians or believed to be Indians. India handed over to Pakistan list of 249 civilian prisoners and 108 fishermen from Pakistan lodged in Indian jails. India also shared details of reconstituted Joint Judicial Committee in order to take further understanding reached to address humanitarian issues, especially with respect to elderly, women and mentally unsound prisoners and that of Indian medical experts team to visit Pakistan to meet mentally-unsound prisoners. Pakistan has also been requested to allow visit of group of fishermen representatives to facilitate repatriation of Indian fishing boats, presently held in Pakistan’s custody, at the earliest.

30) The Income Tax Department has launched instant Aadhaar-based e-PAN allotment service for individuals seeking PAN (Permanent Account Number) service for the first time. This facility is free of cost and is available for a limited period on first-come, first-served basis for valid Aadhaar holders. It was introduced because of increasing number of people applying for PAN. A Key Facts: The e-PAN will be allotted on basis of one-time password (OTP) sent on mobile number linked to Aadhaar number of a person. It will have the same name, date of birth, gender, mobile number and address as in Aadhaar. This facility is only for resident individuals and not for Hindu Undivided Family (HUF), firms, trusts and companies,” the advisory said. Once e-PAN is allotted to applicant through his electronic Aadhaar-based verification system in few seconds, the applicant will be sent the PAN card by post. The process can be done at the official portal of the department: https://www.incometaxindiaefiling.gov.in. Permanent Account Number (PAN): PAN is a ten-digit alphanumeric number, issued by the Income Tax Department of India in form of a laminated tamper proof card. It was introduced to facilitates linking of various documents, including payment of taxes, assessment, tax demand, tax arrears etc. relating to an assesses for widening of tax base and detecting and combating tax evasion. Its purpose is to facilitate easy retrieval of information and facilitate matching of information relating to investment, raising of loans and other business activities of taxpayers collected through various sources, both internal as well as external. PAN is unique to individual or entity and it is valid across India. Once allotted to individual or entity, it is unaffected by change of name, address within or across states in India or other factors. It enables department to link all transactions of person with IT Department.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 30 June 2018 to 5 July 2018.

31) Two building clusters of Victorian Gothic and Art Deco architectural styles in Mumbai, Maharashtra were jointly inscribed in UNESCO World Heritage List. The decision was taken during 42nd session of UNESCO World Heritage Committee (WHC) in Manama, Bahrain. This recognition will push country’s financial capital high on global cultural map. Recognised Structures are This is first world heritage site that Øaunts combination of 19th Century Victorian Gothic structures and 20th Century Art Deco buildings. The ensemble of two building clusters recognized from Mumbai consists of 94 buildings primarily of 19th century Victorian Gothic revival and early 20th century Art Deco style of architecture. Victorian buildings of Mumbai that have earned recognition, forms part of larger Fort precinct and are situated to east of Oval Maidan. These public buildings, include Old Secretariat (1857-74), University Library and Convention Hall (1874-78), Bombay High Court (1878), Public Works Department Office (1872), Watson’s Hotel (1869), David Sasoon Library (1870), Elphinstone College (1888), Prince of Wales Museum (now Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Vastu Sangrahalaya), Maharashtra Police Headquarters, and NGMA (National Gallery of Modern Art). The buildings of Art Deco structures that have earned recognition includes building of ×rst row of Marine Drive, Regal and Eros Cinemas, Ram Mahal along Dinshaw Wacha Road, Cricket Club of India and Buildings of Backbay Reclamation scheme.

32) The 42nd session of World Heritage Committee (WHC) meeting of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) held in Manama, Bahrain has inscribed four cultural sites on the World Heritage List. These four cultural sites are Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensemble of Mumbai (India), Sassanid Archaeological Landscape of Fars region (Iran), Hidden Christian Sites in Nagasaki Region (Japan) and Sansa, Buddhist Mountain Monasteries in Korea (South Korea). Key Facts: Victorian Gothic and Art Deco Ensemble of Mumbai: These two ensembles bear testimony to the phases of modernization that Mumbai has undergone in course of the 19th and 20th centuries. Mumbai’s Victorian ensemble includes Indian elements suited to climate, including balconies and verandas. Art Deco edifices are found in cinemas and residential buildings, having blend of Indian design with Art Deco imagery, creating unique style that has been described as Indo-Deco. Sassanid Archaeological Landscape of Fars region: They are eight archaeological sites situated in three geographical parts in southeast of Fars Province of Iran viz. Firuzabad, Bishapur and Sarvestan. These fortified structures, palaces, and city plans date back to earliest and latest times of Sassanian Empire (from 224 to 658 CE). These sites bear witness to influence of Achaemenid and Parthian cultural traditions and of Roman art, which had significant impact on architecture and artistic styles of the Islamic era. Hidden Christian Sites in Nagasaki Region: It is located in north-western part of Kyushu Island. The 12 components of the site consist of 10 villages, Hara Castle and cathedral, built between the 16th and 19th centuries. Together they reflect earliest activities of Christian missionaries and settlers in Japan. These sites also bear unique testimony to cultural tradition nurtured by hidden Christians in Nagasaki region who secretly transmitted their faith during period of prohibition from 17th to 19th century. Sansa, Buddhist Mountain Monasteries in Korea: They are Buddhist mountain monasteries located throughout southern provinces of Korean Peninsula. They are spatial arrangement of seven temples that comprise site, (established from 7th to 9th centuries), present common characteristics that are specific to Korea– “madang” (open courtyard) flanked by four buildings (pavilion, Buddha Hall, lecture hall and dormitory). They contain large number of individually remarkable structures, objects, documents and shrines. These mountain monasteries are sacred places, and have survived as living centres of faith and daily religious practice. UNESCO World Heritage Sites: The World Heritage Sites are sites selected by UNESCO, having cultural, historical, scientific or other form of significance and is legally protected by international treaties The list is maintained by international World Heritage Programme administered by the UNESCO World Heritage Committee. The committee comprises of 21 UNESCO member states which are elected by UN General Assembly. Each World Heritage Site included in the list remains part of the legal territory of the state where it is located. But inclusion of sites in the list by UNESCO is in interest of the international community to preserve each site. Presently, Italy with 50 sites is home to the greatest number of World Heritage Sites.

33) Madhya Pradesh Government has conferred prestigious National Kalidas Samman on noted artist Anjolie Ela Menon (78) for her contribution to visual arts. The award was conferred in recognition of her insightful and sensitive portrayal of the identity and spirit of women through her meaningful paintings in a variety of media. Anjolie Ela Menon She is counted among India’s most accomplished artists. She is a well-known muralist and one of India’s leading contemporary artists. Her preferred medium is oil on masonite, but she also has worked in other media, including glass and water colour. She is recipient of numerous national and international awards including the Padma Shri. She recently received a doctorate from Rabindra Bharati University. Kalidas Samman It is prestigious arts award presented annually by Government of Madhya Pradesh. The award is named after Kālidāsa, a renowned Classical Sanskrit writer of ancient India. It was first awarded in 1980. It was initially conferred in alternate years in fields of Classical Music, Classical Dance, Theatre and Plastic Arts. From 1986-87 onwards, it was presented in all four fields every year. The award is presented for outstanding achievement in one of the four categories. Some of the previous recipients are Pandit Ravi Shankar, MF Husain, Pandit Jasraj, Shambhu Mitra, Habib Tanvir, Ebrahim Alkazi etc.

34) The 9th Heads of Mission Conference was held in New Delhi from June 30-July 2, 2018. It was inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. The conference comes at the time when India is monitoring several important global developments including sanctions imposed by United States on Russia and Iran, and China’s new assertiveness in Indo-Pacific region. Key Facts: The theme of three-day annual conference was ‘Unprecedented Outreach: Unparalleled Outcomes’. It saw participation of all Indian ambassadors and high commissioners and deliberated on India’s key foreign policy issues and goals .It provided government a common platform to brief country’s top diplomats for promoting India’s national interests abroad and on economic reform initiatives and measures taken for improving ease-of-doing business in the country so that these aspects can be highlighted on the global stage.

35) The Banks Board Bureau (BBB) has recommended 15 executive directors to be elevated as managing directors (MD) at various public sector banks (PSBs). It was headed by former Department of Personnel and Training Secretary B P Sharma. These recommendations were based on interactions held by BBB and are subject to various clearances. The Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) headed by Prime Minister will take the final decision in this regard. Banks Board Bureau (BBB) BBB is advisory authority (autonomous and selfgoverning body) of Central Government comprising eminent professionals and officials to improve governance of PSBs. It was announced by Union Government in August 2015 as part of seven point Indradhanush Mission to revamp PSBs and based on recommendations of RBI-appointed Nayak Committee. It is based in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The first BBB was set up in February 2016 under chairmanship of former CAG Vinod Rai. Mandate: Its broad agenda is to improve governance at state-owned lenders. Its mandate also involves advising government on top-level appointments in PSBs and assisting banks with capital-raising plans through innovative financial methods and instruments as well as strategies to deal with issues of stressed assets or bad loans. Composition: BBB comprises of Chairman, three exofficio members (from government) and three expert members, two of which are from private sector.

36) The International Day of Parliamentarism is observed every year on June 30 across the globe with an aim to recognise role of parliaments in national plans and strategies and in ensuring greater transparency and accountability at national and global levels. The year 2018 marks first celebration of International Day of Parliamentarism. The day celebrates parliaments, as the cornerstone of democracy and as institutions designed to improve the lives of the people they represent. It is also provides opportunity for parliaments to take stock, identify challenges, and ways to address them effectively. Facts and Figures: Parliamentary system of government falls into two categories: bicameral (having two chambers of parliament) and unicameral (having only one chamber). Out of 193 member countries of the United Nations, 79 are having bicameral legislatures and 114 are having unicameral legislatures. These total 272 chambers of parliament comprise over 46000 members of parliament. The parliaments represent voice of people, pass laws, allocate funds to implement laws and policies, and hold governments to account. The oldest parliament is Althingi, the Icelandic Parliament founded in 930. Background: The International Day of Parliamentarism was proclaimed by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by adopting resolution A/RES/72/278 in May 2018 to recognise role of parliaments in national plans and strategies. The chosen date i.e. June 30, coincides with day in 1889, close to 130 years ago, that Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU)—the global organization of parliaments was founded. The resolution adopted by UNGA called on UN and its member states to work more closely with parliaments as well as IPU on issues relating to human rights, gender equality, health and peace and youth empowerment. Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU): IPU is global inter-parliamentary institution. It was established in 1889 and was the first permanent forum for political multilateral negotiations. It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. Its initial objective was arbitration of conflicts. It played important role setting up Permanent Court of Arbitration in The Hague. Over time, its mission has evolved towards promotion of democracy and inter-parliamentary dialogue. It has worked for establishment of institutions at inter-governmental level, including UN. Initially, IPU was for individual parliamentarians, but has since transformed into international organization of parliaments of sovereign states. The national parliaments of 178 countries are its members and 12 regional parliamentary assemblies are its associate members. The IPU has permanent observer status at UNGA.

37) The NITI Aayog has released ×rst Delta ranking for 108 aspirational districts to measure their incremental progress across ×ve developmental areas during two month period of April and May 2018. For these rankings, total 49 key performance indicators were mapped across ×ve developmental areas: health and nutrition, education, ×nancial inclusion and skill development, agriculture and water resources and basic Infrastructure. Key Facts In the ×rst edition of Delta rankings, 108 districts out of total 112 had participated. The districts started entering data from April 1, 2018 in the “Champions of Change” dashboard. Some of the data points for this ranking were sourced from ministries of central government, including those of ×nancial inclusion, skill development and three indicators of basic infrastructure. Most of the data points, however, have been self-reported by the various districts themselves. Performance of districts Most improved aspirational districts: Dahod (Gujarat, rank: 1st), West Sikkim district (Sikkim, 2nd). Ramanathapuram district (Tamil Nadu, 3rd) and Vizianagaram (Andhra Pradesh, 4th) and YSR Kadapa district (Andhra Pradesh, 5th). Least improved aspirational districts: Kupwara (Jammu and Kashmir), Begusarai (Bihar), Ranchi (Jharkhand), Simdega (Jharkhand) and Khagaria( Bihar) were listed as ×rst to ×fth aspirational districts, respectively, in least improved states. Significance of Delta rankings The purpose of Delta rankings is to spur sense of competition among dynamic teams in aspirational districts. It will also serve as tool to identify sectors and indicator speci×c challenges so that Team India, which is driving Transformation of Aspirational Districts programme can take immediate corrective measures. The ranking takes step further and looks into speci×c aspects of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and analyses how districts have performed across important sectors. This grouping and positioning will aidDistrict Magistrates or Collectors to focus more on these sectors and improve their ranking in future. Transformation of Aspirational Districts programme The programme launched in January 2018 aims to quickly and effectively transform some of most underdeveloped districts of the country. The programme envisages rapid development of selected districts on basis of composite index based on ×ve parameters health and nutrition, education, ×nancial inclusion, skill development, agriculture and water resources and basic infrastructure. It focuses closely on improving people’s ability to participate fully in burgeoning economy. It seeks to bring these indicators in selected districts at par with the better performing districts in the country. Broad contours of the programme are Convergence of Central and State Schemes; Collaboration of Central, State level ‘Prabhari’ Of×cers and District Collectors and Competition among districts driven by Mass Movement or Jan Andolan.

38) Madhya Pradesh was awarded by Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for reducing maternal mortality under Prime Minister’s Safe Motherhood Campaign (Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan-PMSMA). The state was awarded for registering unprecedented 48-digit decline in maternal deaths from 2014 to 2016 as per report of Registrar General of India (RGI). Key Facts: The maternal mortality rate in Madhya Pradesh was 221 in 2011-13, which has now dropped down further to just 173. This accounts to significant 22% decline in the last three years in the state. State Government’s various awareness programmes like institutional delivery, Auxiliary Nursing Midwifery (ANM), Anganwadi workers, knock-out campaigns etc. have played pivotal role in reducing maternal mortality rate and this decline will be more noticeable in the coming years. Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA): PMSMA or Prime Minister’s Safe Motherhood Campaign was launched by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to provide free health check-ups to pregnant women at government health centres and hospitals in both rural and urban areas. It is national programme that aims to provide pregnant ladies free ante-natal services (ANC) and required treatment for free on 9th of every month. Private practitioners will play a critical role in supplementing the efforts of the Government. Objectives of PMSMA Provide healthy life to the pregnant women. Lowering the maternity mortality rate and infant mortality rate. Making pregnant women aware of their health issues and diseases. Making sure safe delivery and healthy life of the baby. Intended Beneficiaries: The programme is applicable only for pregnant women in their pregnancy period of 3 to 6 months (i.e. in their 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy). It is expected to provide free antenatal care to about 3 crore pregnant women across the country. Facilities: The programme will provide assured, comprehensive and quality antenatal care on 9th of every month (fixed day). Under it all kinds of medical checkups are provided completely free to pregnant women. Besides, free checkups including blood pressure, sugar level, weight, haemoglobin test, blood test and screening will be also provided. These checkups can take place at medical centres, government and private hospitals and private clinics across the country. Colour Coding: One of the critical components of this programme is mark women differently using different colour stickers based on their health problems so that doctors can easily detect the problem. Women will be marked differently using different colour stickers based on their health problems so that doctors can easily detect the problem. Red Sticker for women with high risk pregnancy, Green Sticke for women with no risk factor detected.

39) Odisha Government has singed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) to enhance effective management of all kinds of disasters. The collaboration is aimed at automating risk management, advisory generation and dissemination. Key Facts The partnership has been forged between Odisha State Disaster Mitigation Authority (OSDMA) and RIMES in ×eld of drought monitoring and early warning for different natural disasters. The collaborative effort aims at enhance early warning system for effective management of all kinds of disasters like Øood, drought, heat wave, lightning and road accidents in the state. Initially, the MoU will be in force for 5 years with cost involvement of about Rs. 8 crore. Under it, efforts will be made to create open-source software platforms and public domain data sets using weather and climate information, sourced from the India Meteorological Department (IMD. Significance The collaboration will help OSDMA to engage integrated multi-hazard early warning system to strengthen its prediction and response capability. It will also strengthen OSDMA for more effective management of natural disasters. It will also help in transfer of best practices among different countries of world in handling natural disasters. It will also enhance warning response capacities of OSDMA by imparting specialized expert training. It will also help to develop one-stop risk management system for all OSDMA needs-integration of multiple data database/servers. Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) The RIMES is an intergovernmental body registered under United Nations. It is owned and managed by 45 collaborating countries in Asia Paci×c 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 transboundary 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.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 30 June 2018 to 05 July 2018.

40) Portugal’s Antonio Manuel de Carvalho Ferreira Vitorino (61) was elected as next Director General (DG) of International Organization for Migration (IOM), an UN Migration Agency. He will succeed incumbent DG William Lacy Swing who will be stepping down after completing the second of two five-year terms. In this election for top most post of IMO (held in secret ballot), Vitorino defeated Costa Rica’s Laura Thompson who came second and US nominee Ken Isaacs who came third. Antonio Vitorino: Antonio Vitorino had earned degree from University of Lisbon’s School of Law in 1981, as well as Master’s Degree in Legal and Political Science. He was elected to Portugal’s Parliament in 1980. In 1983, he was made Secretary of State for Parliamentary Affairs. He had served as Minister for National Defense and Deputy Prime Minister within government of Antonio Guterres, who is now United Nations’ Secretary General. He also had served as European Commissioner for Justice and Home Affairs from 1999 to 2004. He has been President of the think tank Notre Europe since June 2011. International Organisation for Migration (IOM): IOM is UN Migration Agency and is leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants, including refugees, internally displaced persons and migrant workers. It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. It was established in 1951 as Intergovernmental Committee for European Migration (ICEM) to help resettle people displaced by World War II. It was granted Permanent Observer status to UN General Assembly in 1992. Cooperation agreement between IOM and UN was signed in 1996. IOM works in four broad areas of migration management: Migration and development, Facilitating migration, Regulating migration and Forced migration. It has 166 member states and 8 states holding observer status. It has over 400 offices in more than 150 countries. It has more than 9,500 staff and 450 offices worldwide.

41) The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation has launched mobile application “ReUnite” in New Delhi to track and trace missing and abandoned children in India. The app is available for both Android and iOS. It has been developed by Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi‘s NGO Bachpan Bachao Andolan and IT company Capgemini. Key Facts: The ReUnite app is multiuser where parents and citizens can upload pictures of children and provide detailed description like name, address, birth mark, search and identify missing kids and report to the police station. It uses Amazon Rekognition, a web based facial recognition service to identify missing kids. The photographs uploaded on the app will not be saved in the mobile phone’s physical memory.

42) The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) for first time has rolled out three phase energy efficient eight car Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) train set built with stainless steel bodies in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. MEMU is suburban train system that caters to needs of medium distance inter-city passengers. Key Facts: Rake formation: The stainless steel MEMU consists of eight coaches — two driving motor coaches (DMC) at both ends with seating capacity of 55 passengers and standing capacity of 171 passengers (total 226 passengers) in each coach and six trailer coaches (TC) with seating capacity of 84 passengers and standing capacity of 241 (total 325 passengers) in each coach. Thus, total carrying capacity of this stainless steel MEMU rake is 2402 passengers. Key Features: The MEMU is manufactured with stainless steel coach body and has aerodynamically shaped stainless steel front end nose for reduced air resistance, thereby saving in energy. It runs on self-propelled 25 kv AC Overhead Traction, supported by Regenerative braking system. It saves energy consumption up to 35% as compared to conventional EMU and MEMU trains. Its maximum speed is 110kmph. It has additional features like CCTV installed in each coaches for enhanced passenger safety. In addition, it has GPS based Passenger Information System (PIS) and Passenger Address System (PAS) in its all coaches. Even its loco pilot cabin also has been provided with CCTV cameras. Moreover, its every coach has been provided with modular toilets. Integral Coach Factory (ICF): ICF is manufacturer of rail coaches located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It was established in 1952. It is owned and operated by Indian Railways. It primarily manufactures rolling stock for Indian Railways and also exports railway coaches to other countries including Thailand, Myanmar, Taiwan, Zambia, Philippines, Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, Nigeria, Mozambique, Bangladesh, Angola and Sri Lanka. It employs about 11,095 people and manufactures about 2000 coaches per year.

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