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  • WBCS Current Affairs 03 March 2018 To 09 March 2018
    Posted on March 24th, 2018 in Weekly Current Affairs
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    WBCS Current Affairs 03 March 2018 To 09 March 2018

    West Bengal Civil Service (Executive), popularly known as W.B.C.S.(Exe), is the civil service of the Indian state of West Bengal. For the W.B.C.S.(Exe) and other comparative posts, Public Service Commission of West Bengal arranges competitive examinations in three phases every year.Knowing the syllabus of W.B.C.S. Examination thoroughly is the first step towards this exam.The mains syllabus of W.B.C.S. is very descriptive.Following the previous years question papers are very important while preparing for this examination.1) The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed fine of more than Rs. 54 crore on Jet Airways, InterGlobe Aviation and SpiceJet for unfair business practices with respect to fixing fuel surcharge on cargo transport. The CCI order comes on complaint filed by Express Industry Council of India (EICI) against airlines alleging cartelisation. It has directed three airlines to cease and desist from anti-competitive practices. It is second order on same complaint in nearly three years. Key Facts: The penalties were imposed on airlines for concerted action in fixing and revising fuel surcharge (FSC), a component of freight charges. These airlines had acted in concerted manner in fixing and revising FSC rates in violation of competition norms that prohibit anti-competitive agreements, including cartels. The penalties were imposed at the rate of 3% of three airlines average relevant turnover of last 3 financial years and taking into consideration financial position of airlines at relevant time and noting that FSC constitutes about 20-30% of cargo revenue. Competition Commission of India (CCI): CCI is quasi-judicial statutory body established under The Competition Act, 2002. It was established in October 2003 and became fully functional in May 2009. It consists of Chairperson and 6 Members appointed by Central Government. CCI aims to eliminate practices that adversely affect competition in different industries and protect interests of consumers and ensure freedom of trade. Its mandate is to eliminate practices having adverse effect on competition, promote and sustain competition, protect interests of consumers and ensure freedom of trade in markets of India. It is also required to give opinion on competition issues on reference received from statutory authority established under any law and undertakes competition advocacy, create public awareness and impart training on competition issues.Continue reading WBCS Current Affairs 03 March 2018 To 09 March 2018.

    2) According to data of Chinese General Administration of Customs, India-China bilateral trade has reached $84.44 billion last year, a historic high with 18.63% year-on-year growth rate. This is regarded as historic landmark in bilateral relations of both countries, as volume of bilateral trade for first time has touched $80 billion, well above the $71.18 billion registered in 2016. Key Facts: India has emerged as the seventh largest export destination for Chinese products, and 24th largest exporter to China. India’s imports and exports: It has increased by 39.11% year-on-year to $16.34 billion in 2017. India’s imports from China have increased by 14.59% to $68.10 billion. Significantly, diamonds along with copper, iron ore, organic chemicals and cotton yarn contributed to increase Indian exports to China. China’s exports on other hand were dominated by electrical machinery and equipment, India’s trade deficit: It continues to remain high at $51.75 billion, registering a growth of 8.55% year-on-year in 2017. To arrest it, India is pressing China to open its IT and Pharmaceutical sectors for Indian firms, fertilizers, organic chemicals and pharmaceutical antibiotics. Comment: The bilateral trade has touched historic high despite bilateral tensions over number of bilateral issues including China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), China blocking India’s efforts to bring about UN ban on Jaish-e-Mohammad leader Masood Azhar and blocking India’s entry into Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) as well as military standoff at Doklam plateau near Sikkim and Bhutan, lasting 73 days. For several years, bilateral trade between India and China had stagnated around $70 billion, despite they had set target of $100 billion in 2015. Though it is still about $20 billion short, it is expect trade and Chinese investments in India to pick up further as both governments are trying to scale down tensions and step-up normalisation process.Continue Reading

    3) The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved Rs. 1,151 crore Central Sector Scheme for in-situ management of crop residue in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi. It will promote agricultural mechanization for next two years (2018-20) to provide cost-effective and eco-friendly solution to farmers to deal with problem of stubble burning that result in raising air pollution levels in Delhi and neighbouring states every winter. Features of Scheme: Under this scheme, the proceeds from central fund will be used to establish Farm Machinery Banks (FMBs) for Custom Hiring of in-situ crop residue management machinery. Government will provide 80% financial assistance of project cost to cooperative societies of farmers, FPOs, SHGs, registered farmers societies or farmers groups, private entrepreneurs and group of women farmers. It will also provide 50% financial assistance to farmers for procurement of agriculture machinery and equipment for in-situ crop residue management. Beneficiaries will be identified and selected for establishment of Farm Machinery Bank for Custom Hiring and procurement of machines on individual ownership basis by state nodal department/DLEC. They may tie up with Banks for credit requirements of beneficiaries. The central fund will also be used to create awareness among farmers about in-situ management of crop residue. The activities will involve mass awareness campaigns through documents, short and long films, radio and TV programmes, demonstration camps at various levels and capacity building programme etc. It will also include advertisement in print media, star campaigning, award for village or gram Panchayat for achieving Zero Straw Burning etc. Background: Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Budget 2018-19 had announced special scheme with 100% Central share to support efforts of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi to address air pollution and to subsidize machinery required for in-situ management of crop residue. Significance: The scheme is expected to go long way in tackling air pollution issue in NCT of Delhi, as stubble burning which has been identified as one of key problem areas, especially during post-harvest season of October-November when prevailing meteorological condition aggravates the situation further.

    4) The Union Cabinet has approved two key measures in telecom sector to facilitate investments, consolidation in the sector and enhancing ease of doing business. These include restructuring: Deferred payment liabilities of spectrum auction of telecom service providers (TSPs). Revising the limit of the cap for spectrum holding for TSPs. Key Facts: Restructuring of Deferred Payment Liabilities of TSPs for spectrum. It extends time period for payment of spectrum bought in auction to 16 years from the present 10 years. It will give one-time opportunity for TSPs to opt for higher number of instalment (maximum 16 instalment) apart from currently permitted 10 instalments. The increased instalment is based upon principle that Net Present Value (NPV) of Payment Due is protected as per respective notice inviting application for auction of spectrum from 2012. The total amount received will be higher by Rs. 74,446 crore till 2034-35. Revision of limits of cap for spectrum holding Based upon the recommendations of TRAI and Telecom Commission, the Union Cabinet also approved revision of limits of cap for spectrum holding. They are- Overall spectrum cap is revised from current limit of 25% to 35%. Current intra-band cap is removed. Instead, there is cap of 50% on combined spectrum holding in sub-1 GHz bands (700 MHz, 800 MHz and 900 MHz bands). There will be no cap for individual or combined spectrum holding in above 1 GHz band. Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) had recommended revision in existing limits of cap for spectrum holding taking into consideration technological advancement, efficient use of spectrum, measures to facilitate consolidation etc. The revised spectrum caps limits may be revisited in future after Final Acts of World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) 2019. Comment: Restructuring of deferred payment liability will increase cash flow for telecom service providers in immediate timeframe and provide them some relief. Revising spectrum limit cap holding will facilitate consolidation of telecom licensees, thus aid mergers and acquisitions in the sector and may encourage TSPs participation in future spectrum auction.

    5) According to Indian Steel Association (ISA), proposal by Trump administration to levy steep tariff on steel imports may hit India’s domestic steel market. Recently, US had proposed to impose tariffs of 25% on steel imports and 10% on imported aluminium to protect domestic steel industry from cheap imports. It had clubbed India as steel non-mature country with other steel surplus nations. Key Facts: The proposal, if implemented, will result in major shifts in existing global trade flows of steel and steel products. It will encourage steel-surplus nations to divert their exports to vibrant consumption centres (countries) like India and distort their domestic markets considerably. It will dent growth prospects of developing nation like India, whose production and consumption of steel is inward looking. Though India is third largest producer of steel and produces 12% of world’s non-Chinese production of steel, it has only 2.7% share in US imports. There are total of 16 trade remedies in place in US against Indian steel imports. This included 10 anti-dumping and 6 countervailing duties. All these had made it nearly impossible to export Indian Steel to US.

    6) Legendary Indian architect Balkrishna Doshi (90), a pioneer of low-cost housing design has won the prestigious Pritzker Prize, considered architecture field’s Nobel. He is 45th Pritzker laureate and first from India to receive it. He is one of the last living architects to have apprenticed with Franco-Swiss trailblazer Le Corbusier distinguished his work by committing to sustainable architecture and inexpensive housing. Balkrishna Doshi: Born on 26 August 1927 in Pune, Maharashtra. He is considered as one of important figure of South Asian architecture and noted for his contributions to evolution of architectural discourse in India. He is alumnus of prestigious JJ School of Architecture in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He had worked with legendary Le Corbusier in Paris in 1950 before returning to India to supervise architect’s projects in Chandigarh and Ahmedabad. He established his studio Vastu-Shilpa (environmental design) in 1955 and worked with Louis Kahn and Anant Raje in designing campus of IIM Ahmedabad. He also designed campuses of IIM Bangalore and Lucknow, National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), Tagore Memorial Hall, Institute of Indology in Ahmedabad, among other fine campuses and buildings across India, besides many low-cost housing projects. He is also known as an institution builder. He is first founder Director of School of Architecture, Ahmedabad, first founder Director of School of Planning, first founder Dean of Centre for Environmental Planning and Technology (also designed its building), founder member of Visual Arts Centre, Ahmedabad and first founder Director of Kanoria Centre for Arts, Ahmedabad. He was awarded Padma Shri in 1976 and 6th Aga Khan Award for Architecture for Aranya Community Housing, 1993-1995. Pritzker prize: The international Pritzker prize was established by Chicago’s Pritzker family in 1979. It is considered to be one of the world’s premier architecture prizes, and is often referred to as the Nobel Prize of architecture. It is awarded annually and bestows laureates with $100,000 along with bronze medallion. Previous winners include world-renowned architects like Zaha Hadid, Frank Gehry, IM Pei, and Shigeru Ban.

    7) The Union Cabinet has apprised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in field of Renewable Energy between India and Hellenic. The MoU was signed by Union External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and H.E. Nikos Kotzias, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hellenic Republic during latter’s visit to New Delhi in November, 2017. Key Facts: Under this agreement, both countries aim to establish basis for cooperative institutional relationship to encourage and promote technical bilateral cooperation on new and renewable issues on basis of mutual benefit equality and reciprocity. The MoU envisages establishing Joint Working Group (JWG) to review, monitor and discuss matters relation to areas of cooperation. It also aims for exchange of expertise and networking of information.

    8) The Union Cabinet has approved signing of Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement between India and France. Decision in this regard was taken at the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The agreement will be signed during forthcoming state visit of French President to India. Key Facts: The agreement represents major milestone in enhancing people-to-people (P2P) contacts between both countries. It will foster mobility of students, academics, skilled professionals and researchers and strengthen cooperation on issues related to irregular migration and human trafficking between countries. The agreement is also testimony to India’s rapidly expanding multi-faceted relationship with France and symbolizes increasing trust and confidence between two sides. It will be initially valid for period of 7 years and incorporates provision for automatic renewal and monitoring mechanism through Joint Working Group (JWG).

    9) Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has launched Sukhad Yatra mobile application and 1033 Toll-free Emergency number for highway users. It also launched scheme for District Driving Training Centres and will provide grant of financial assistance for Road Safety Advocacy and awards for outstanding work in Road Safety. Sukhad Yatra mobile application: It has been prepared by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to empower Highway user. Its key feature includes provision for user to enter road quality-related information and to report any accident or pothole on highway. It also provides users with real-time data related to waiting time expected at plazas and various facilities like points of interest, highway nest and nest mini, etc. available across highway. It can also be used by users to purchase FASTag tag and further facilitate highway user experience. Toll-free number 1033: It will enable users to report an emergency condition and highway-related feedback. Its service has been integrated with various ambulance, tow away services along highway to ensure rapid response time in case emergency. The service is supported by a multi-lingual support and user location tracking features to provide the user with accurate and responsive complaint resolution. Scheme for District Driving Training Centres: Under it, at least one model driving training centre will be set up in each district of States/UTs. MoRTH will provide financial assistance of up to Rs. 1 crore for these centres. Its objective is to create employment and meeting requirement of HMV and LMV drivers in country. It also aims at inculcating habit of road safety, like attitudinal and behavioral changes among drivers. These centres will conduct training course for drivers carrying dangerous and hazardous goods. The agencies that will open centre will provide infrastructure facilities like land, class rooms, simulator, etc. Scheme for grant of financial assistance: The financial assistance will be provided for administering Road Safety Advocacy and awards for outstanding done in field of Road Safety. Under it, assistance up to Rs. 5 lakh will be provided to NGO, Cooperative Societies, Trust and other agencies for administering road safety programme. Three awards of Rs. 5 lakhs, Rs. 2 lakh and Rs. 1 lakh will be given in each State/UT to individuals of agencies engaged in road safety advocacy and allied activities.

    10) The shareholders of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have given their nod to India’s candidature to international financial institution. With this, India will become the 69th member of EBRD. The move follows Indian Government’s application to seek membership of EBRD back in December 2017. It will set stage increase in joint investment with Indian companies in EBRD’s regions of operation. Key Facts: The EBRD’s Board of Governors, which represents all existing shareholders of the international financial institution, had voted in favour of India’s membership application. With shareholders’ approval, the formal membership process will now get underway, which includes purchase of shares by India at estimated cost of around 1 million euros. European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD): EBRD is a multilateral developmental investment bank. It was established in 1991 after fall of the Berlin wall to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in emerging Europe. It is headquartered in London, United Kingdom. It was initially focused to help former Communist states build their economies after Cold War and then expanded to support development in more than 30 countries from central Europe to central Asia. It invests in 38 emerging economies across three continents with predefined set of criteria that aim to make its countries more competitive, better governed, greener, more inclusive, more resilient and more integrated. It works only in countries that are committed to democratic principles, using investment as tool to build market economies.

    11) The Ministry of Human Resource Development has sanctioned Rs. 1000 crore for phase II of Impacting Research Innovation and Technology (IMPRINT) India programme to boost research and innovation in the country. Under the IMPRINT-II, a fund is being created by Department of Science and Technology (DST) and HRD Ministry together, in which participation will come from industry and other interested Ministries. The project will be run as a separate vertical in coordination with DST. Impacting Research Innovation and Technology (IMPRINT) India: IMPRINT India Programme is joint initiative of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian Institute of Science (IISc). It seeks to develop road map for research to solve major engineering and technology challenges in 10 technology domains relevant for country. These domains include health care, information and communication technology, energy, sustainable habitat, nano‐technology hardware, water resources and river systems, advanced materials, manufacturing, security and defence, and environment and climate. These domains are distributed among IITs Kharagpur, Kanpur, Bomaby, Rookree, Madras and IISC, Bengaluru. Objectives of IMPRINT: Identify areas of immediate relevance that requires innovation in the society. Ensure support and higher funding for research for identified areas. Measure outcomes of innovation and research efforts and its impact on people’s standard of living. Significance: It will motivate technical institutions to conduct research in areas where the country is heavily dependent on foreign technology. Under IMPRINT-I Programme, 142 projects at cost of Rs. 318.71 crore are already under implementation. These projects cover 10 crucial technology domains mentioned above.

    12) 40 participants of Indian Origin from 9 countries attended 46th edition of Know India Programme (KIP). Madhya Pradesh was partner state of this edition. As part of the initiative participants visited Madhya Pradesh, Parliament House, President’s House and attended orientation programme at the Foreign Service Institute. Know India Programmes (KIP): KIP is initiative (scheme) of Ministry of External Affairs for Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) between the age group of 18 to 30 years. The scheme was launched in 2004 and has so far had 40 editions in which some 1,293 PIO youths have participated. Objective: Engage and make students and young professionals of Indian Diaspora (18 to 30years) feel sense of connect with their motherland. Motivated and inspire PIOs by transformational changes taking place in India and give them an exposure to various aspects of contemporary India’s forms of art, heritage and culture. KIP is three-week orientation programme aimed at promoting awareness on different facets of life in India as well as the progress made by country in fields such as economic and education. It offers platform for young PIOs to visit India share their views, experiences and expectations and forge closer bonds with India. The participants are selected on basis of nominations received and recommendations of heads of Indian Missions and posts. The participants are provided all the hospitality in India. In 2016, KIP scheme was revamped to extend number of days from 21 to 25 days including 10-day visit to one or two states.

    13) India for first time has started process of importing Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) from United States. The development comes on the heels of India’s first import of crude oil from the US in October 2017. State-owned GAIL will discharge its. The first US-sourced LNG shipment was imported by state-owned GAIL and was shipped it on board of its chartered LNG ship ‘Meridian Spirit’ from Cheniere Energy’s Sabine Pass LNG export facility in Louisiana. It will be discharged at GAIL’s Dabhol terminal, Maharashtra. Key Facts: GAIL had signed 20-year Sale Purchase Agreement (SPA) with US’ natural gas exporter Cheniere Energy in December 2011. Under it, GAIL will purchase around 3.5 Million Tonne of LNG per year from Sabine Pass. Cheniere Energy is currently operating and constructing its Sabine Pass LNG facility in Louisiana and is constructing second liquefaction facility near Corpus Christi, Texas. This shipment will help GAIL to diversify its portfolio both on price indexation and geographical locations. Moreover, this long-term SPA will also strengthening relationship between GAIL and Cheniere and reinforcing India-US trade ties. Background: India primarily imports LNG from Qatar and Australia under long-term contracts. In recent times, it has been trying to diversify its natural gas sources. Moreover, after former US President Barack Obama lifted US’s 40 year-old oil export ban, Indian oil and gas companies in response bought shipments of US crude to check for cost competitiveness and its compatibility with Indian refinery configuration. India is also trying to increase its use of natural gas in the energy mix from current 6% to 15% within five years inorder reduce dependence on oil and to secure energy supplies and reduce emissions by using more natural gas.

    14) Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) has installed 49 lakh LED street lights in 28 states/UTs under the Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP). This information was given by Minister of State (IC) Power R K Singh in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha. Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP): The Programme was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2015. It aims to replace 1.34 crore conventional street lights with energy efficient LED lights by March, 2019. It is being implemented by EESL. It is world’s Largest Street Light Replacement Programme. Rajasthan was the first state to adopt this scheme. Objectives: Reduce energy consumption in lighting which helps DISCOMs to manage peak demand. Mitigate climate change by implementing energy efficient LED based street lighting. Provide sustainable service model that obviates need for upfront capital investment as well as additional revenue expenditure to pay for procurement of LED lights. Enhance municipal services at no upfront capital cost of municipalities. Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL): EESL was set up under Union Ministry of Power to facilitate implementation of energy efficiency projects. It is a joint venture of NTPC Limited, Power Finance Corporation (PFC), Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) and POWERGRID. It leads market-related actions of National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE). It also acts as the resource centre for capacity building of State DISCOMs.

    15) The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has released draft Indian National Strategy for Standardisation for standardisation of products and services to provide level playing field to domestic industry and adopt best global practices. The strategy will play an active role and take leadership positions in apex international forums in related areas besides creating response mechanisms to global developments on standards, technical regulations and conformity assessment practices that impact market access of Indian goods and services. Key objectives of draft strategy: Positioning standards as key driver of all economic activities relating to goods and services. Create integrated infrastructure, roadmaps and institutions for their effective management. Enhance competitiveness of Indian goods and services in domestic and international markets. Develop comprehensive ecosystem for standards development taking into account diversity of interests and expertise available. Provide level playing field to domestic industry and adopt best practices in standardisation, conformity assessment and technical regulations. Need for strategy: Rapid growth of Indian economy, its size and emerging relevance in global trade has made it essential to establish robust quality infrastructure in country with harmonised, dynamic and mature standards ecosystem for goods. The standardisation will fuel economic growth and enhance ‘Made in India’ label as standards are widely recognised as catalysts for technical development, industrial growth, well-being of society and more recently for convergence of new and emerging technologies. The strategy for standardisation of products considers current state of development across sectors, existing quality infrastructure and policy directions in relation to domestic economic developments and trade in goods and services.

    16) The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched #YesIBleed menstrual hygiene campaign on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2018. It is second edition of such campaign that aims to create holistic approach to issue of menstruation, which is experience that transcends culture, class, and caste. Key Facts: The “#Yes I Bleed” campaign has been initiated formally across all multi-media platforms, including Facebook and YouTube to spread awareness about issue. The National Commission of Women (NCW) has extended full support to Shewings in endevour to spread awareness about the core issue of every woman’s concern. Background: The United Nations has recognised menstrual hygiene as global public health and human rights issue. Yet across the globe, period poverty as some call it, is reality for millions of women and girls. Menstruation is still taboo subject in India and even women are uncomfortable discussing in public. There is nothing to be ashamed of. It is a natural physiological process. According to the results of the study, “Sanitary Protection: Every Woman’s Health Right”, only 12% of Indian women have access to sanitary napkins and remaining 88% have no access as they find sanitary pads unaffordable. The use unsanitised cloth, tree leaves, husk sand and even ash. These can cause severe reproductive health problems and infections and can also lead to cervical cancer. In India’s rural areas, women lack of resources, education and awareness about personal hygiene and hygiene products and don’t even have any conversation around menstruation. It is necessary for people to understand that menstrual hygiene is of utmost importance and there should be openness about puberty and menstrual hygiene in the country.

    17) Government has shifted headquarters of Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) to Ballabhgarh in Faridabad District of Haryana from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It was shifted after consultation with AWBI for better coordination between the Environment Ministry and AWBI for carrying out the animal welfare activities. The Rule 3 of the Animal Welfare Board (Administrative) Rules, 1962 mentions that the headquarter of AWBI shall be at New Delhi or at such other place as central government, may, after consultation with the Board direct. Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI): AWBI is a statutory advisory body established in 1962 under Section 4 of The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. It frames a range of rules on how animals ought to be humanely treated everywhere. It has also frequently litigated to have stricter laws to ensure animals were not unduly harassed or tortured. Initially it was within jurisdiction of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. Later in 1990, the subject of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was transferred to Environment Ministry. The Board consists of 28 Members, who serve for a period of 3 years. Its headquaters is located at Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Several government organisations, along with animal rights activists and parliamentarians, are represented on the Board. Functions of AWBI: It recognises Animal Welfare Organisations by granting them recognition if they meet its guidelines. It also appoints key people to the positions of (Hon) Animal Welfare Officers, who serve as the key point of contact between the people, the government and law enforcement agencies. It suggests changes to laws and rules about animal welfare issues. It also offers guidance to organisations and officials such as police to help them interpret and apply the laws. It issues publications to raise awareness of various animal welfare issues. Its education team gives talks on animal welfare subjects, and trains members of the community to be Certified Animal Welfare Educators. It provides financial assistance to recognised AWOs, who submit applications to the Board. Categories of grants include Regular Grant, Cattle Rescue Grant, Provision of Shelter House for Animals, Animal Birth Control (ABC) Programme, Ambulance for animals in distress and Natural Calamity grant.

    18) Cybersecurity agencies have detected a new malware called Saposhi that can take over electronic devices and use them for Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Saposhi Malware is capable of taking over electronic devices and turning them into bots (device taken over by malware) which can then be used for any purpose, including DDoS attacks which, with enough firepower, can cripple entire industries. Key Facts: Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), a Central government body that deals with cyberattacks has so far has not issued any alert regarding Saposhi malware. Saposhi is similar in its intensity to Reaper malware, which was taking over millions of devices at rate of 10,000 devices per day. In October 2017, CERT had issued alert about Reaper which is highly evolved malware capable of hacking devices like Wi-Fi routers and security cameras and also hiding its own presence in bot. Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks: In DDoS attacks, malware first creates network of bots — called botnet and then uses botnet to ping single server beyond its capacity at same time. As number of pings are far beyond server’s capacity, server crashes and denies service to its consumers. Malwares like Saposhi, Reaper and Mirai are primarily are used for DDoS attacks. For example, if large botnet attacks server of fleet cab provider, its server will crash, and scores of consumers will be unable to avail of its services, causing chaos in daily commuting as well as massive losses to the company. Recent DDoS attacks: In July 2016, small and medium internet service providers in Maharashtra had fallen prey to DDoS attack, which had caused disruption in services of several Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in state. Mirai malware using botnet of 5 lakh devices, had caused servers of Dyn, a leading domain name service provider, to crash, affecting services of popular websites like Netflix, Twitter and Reddit.

    19) Iraq has overtaken Saudi Arabia to become India’s top crude oil supplier by supplying 38.9 million tonnes (MT) crude oil in the current financial year. It was fifth of the India’s oil needs. India is 80% dependent on imports to meet its oil needs. India had imported 184.4 MT of crude oil during April-January period of 2017-18 period as compared to 213.9 MT in the entire 2016-17 fiscal, and 202.8 MT in 2015-16. Key Facts: Saudi Arabia traditionally has been India’s top oil source but Iraq dethroned it. Saudi Arabia supplied 30.9 MT of crude oil in first 10 months of current fiscal. Iran continued to be third largest supplier, selling 18.4 MT during April-January. This is the second year in a row that Iran has occupied the third position. Venezuela is India’s fourth largest supplier with 15.5 MT during April-January, followed by Nigeria with 14.9 MT. Imports from West Asia: India’s dependence on West Asia for its crude oil needed has increased from 58% in 2014-15 to 63.7% in April-January period of this fiscal. India had imported 109.9 MT out of 189.4 MT of total crude imports in 2014-15 from region. In the current fiscal so far, West Asia has accounted for 117.5 MT of crude oil supplies to India. Reasons for increase of imports from Iraq: Iraq was able dethrone Saudi Arabia as India’s largest crude oil supplier mainly by supplying heavily discounted crude compared to crude oil sold by Saudi Arabia at Official Selling Price of OPEC. In given time period, prices of crude oil had shot up following production cuts by OPEC members. However, Iraq did not followed the aggressive pricing due to its heavy dependence on oil revenues to fund its economy. Moreover, Indian refiners in recent years have invested heavily in modernising plants to more efficiently process low grade crudes including Basra heavy crude from Iraq, giving greater flexibility in the cost-saving oil grades they can buy.

    20) India’s first helicopter shuttle service (HeliTaxi) was launched in IT capital Bengaluru, Karnataka n a bid to provide last-mile connectivity. The maiden trip of helitaxi was between Electronic City and Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. It was provided by Thumby Aviation. Need: Bengaluru has poor road density (measure of road length per square km area of land) as compared to other Indian cities. So such service was needed much more than other cities to ferry air passengers to and from the city. The decision to launch HeliTaxi was announced in August 2017 by Union Minister of State (MoS) for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha. Key Facts: HeliTaxi provides connectivity between Airport and Electronic City (located in south about 70 km from airport in the city centre), home to hundreds of technology firms including, Infosys and other multinationals. It has reduced travelling time between airport and Electronic City from two hours (by road) to 15 minutes. The fare is fixed at Rs. 4,130 per seat, including GST. It includes pick up from airport terminal to helipad and allows carrying 15 kg luggage. People can book their seat through a mobile app named ‘Heli Taxii’. Currently, the chopper service provider has employed only one helicopter to ferry air passengers and will increase number depending on demand.

    21) The dispute settlement body (DSB) of World Trade Organization (WTO) has decided to set up panel to examine whether India has complied with its 2016 ruling in case against US regarding domestic content requirements (DCR) rules for solar cells and modules. Background: In 2016, the multilateral body had ruled against India for favouring local manufacturers in its solar power programme, on petition filed by US. But after ruling, US had alleged that India continues to apply WTO-inconsistent measures and had approached WTO demanding action against India for non-compliance of WTO ruling in December 2017. India, however, has maintained that it has complied with WTO’s ruling and had requested WTO to set up a panel to determine its compliance with rulings of dispute. What is the issue? In 2013, US had filed complaint before WTO, arguing that domestic content requirement imposed under India’s ambitious Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (NSM) violates global trading rules by unfavourably discriminating against imported solar cells and modules. In February 2016, WTO panel had ruled that India had violated its national treatment obligation, by imposing the domestic content requirement. US had claimed that its solar exports to India have fallen by more than 90% since India had brought in the DCR rules. Dispute Settlement Body (DSB): WTO is an intergovernmental organization that regulates international trade. General Council of WTO convenes as DSB to deal with disputes between WTO members. Such disputes may arise with respect to any agreement contained in Final Act of Uruguay Round that is subject to Understanding on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU). The DSB has authority to establish dispute settlement panels, refer matters to arbitration, adopt panel, Appellate Body and arbitration reports, and maintain surveillance over implementation of recommendations and rulings. It can also authorize suspension of concessions in event of non-compliance with those recommendations and rulings.

    22) Joint investigation committee (JIC) comprising US and Indian officials has test-fired M777 ultra-light howitzers (ULH) at Pokhran firing range in Rajasthan. The team will review results of this test soon. The test was conducted in the wake of accident during its trial in September 2017. Background: In November 2016, India signed Rs 5,070-crore deal with US to procure 145 M777 ULH for deployment on mountainous terrain in northern and eastern borders. It was first such induction of artillery guns since Swedish Bofors guns in late-1980s, which got embroiled in political controversy. As part of deal, two M777 ULHs were brought to India May 2017 for field firing with Indian ammunition to compile firing tables that provide data such as range and elevation. But during September 2017 trial firing, the projectile had bursted in barrel of howitzers. After accident, two sides had formed joint team to examine issue. M777 Ultra-Light Howitzers (ULH) artillery Guns: It is manufactured by BAE Systems’ Global Combat Systems division. It is smaller and lighter. It weighs 4,100 kg and can be easily transported by helicopters. It has effective firing range of 24 km. Under India-US M777 deal, 25 ULHs will be inducted directly with rest to be assembled at BAE Systems facility in Maharashtra in partnership with Mahindra Group. The delivery is to be completed by 2021. Indian Army is going to deploy these artillery guns in high-altitude areas in Arunachal Pradesh and Ladakh, bordering China. Its induction will give Indian defence forces a much needed operational advantage and an access to state of art technology.

    23) The Union Government has set up 8 member steering committee look into the development and regulation of the financial technology (fintech) sector in India. It will be headed by Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Garg. The move follows an announcement by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the Budget. Members: Electronics and Information Technology Secretary, Financial Services Secretary, MSME Secretary, Chairperson of Central Board of Excise and Customs, Deputy Governor of Reserve Bank of India, Chief Executive Officer of Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and Joint Secretary Department of Economic Affairs. Terms of References: Committee’s objective is to consider various issues relating to development of fintech sector in India. It will look into issues to make fintech-related regulations more flexible and generate enhanced entrepreneurship in area where India has distinctive comparative strengths vis-à-vis other emerging economies. It will find ways of using fintech in critical sectors of economy, including financing of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), delivery of e-services to vulnerable sections of society, management of land records and other government services. It will also focus on how fintech can be leveraged to enhance financial inclusion of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). It will examine means of using data available with Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) and information utilities such as credit information companies to make applications for financing of MSMEs. It will also work with entities such as UIDAI to create and use unique enterprise identification number.

    24) The Nikkei India Services Business Activity Index contracted at 47.8 in February 2018 compared with 51.7 in January 2018. A reading above 50 implies an expansion while one below 50 denotes a contraction. The contraction shows that activity and new work in services sector declined for the first time since November 2017, with rates of contraction the fastest since August 2017. Key Facts: The fall in the services index outweighed the upturn seen in manufacturing PMI in February 2018. Business activity in services sector contracted in February 2018 due primarily to a decline in new orders. Both activity and new work in the services sector has declined for the first time since November 2017, with rates of contraction the strongest since August 2017. PMI: PMI is an indicator of business activity-both in the manufacturing and services sectors. It is published by Markit Limited. 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. The index figure above 50 denotes expansion in business activity and anything below 50 denotes contraction.

    25) Senior Indian-origin Scotland Yard officer Neil Basu became first person of Asian heritage to be appointed as Counterterrorism Chief. He will take charge as Scotland Yard’s National Lead for Counter Terrorism (CT) and Head of Met Police’s Specialist Operations. Key Facts: Basu will replace Mark Rowley, Met assistant commissioner who has been in charge of counterterrorism unit since June 2014 and had resigned recently. He is currently Metropolitan Police Deputy Assistant Commissioner and will be promoted to rank of Assistant Commissioner for Specialist Operations. Basu’s father is of Indian origin. Scotland Yard (officially New Scotland Yard): It is officially New Scotland Yard. It is metonym for headquarters of Metropolitan Police Service (MPS), the territorial police force responsible for policing most of London. Its name derives from location of original Metropolitan Police headquarters at 4 Whitehall Place, which rear entrance on street had called Great Scotland Yard. The first MPS was opened on 6 October 1829 on street called Great Scotland Yard, at rear of 4 Whitehall Place. Now, Scotland Yard building is owned by Indian billionaire Yusuff Ali M.A, chairman of Lulu Group International.

    26) Researchers have developed silver copper telluride (AgCuTe), a novel compound that exhibits poor thermal conductivity but shows good electrical conductivity. It was developed by researchers from Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru. AgCuTe: The new material having thermoelectric properties is made from silver, copper, and tellurium. It shows high levels of thermoelectric performance i.e. exhibits poor thermal conductivity in 25-425 degree C range but shows good electrical conductivity. Due to its low thermal conductivity, one end of 8 mm-long AgCuTe rod which is contact with waste heat remains hot while other end maintains cold temperature. This temperature difference results in generation of electrical voltage. The material also exhibits good electrical conductivity like metal at same time. Significance: The compound shows ideal promise as thermoelectric material for converting waste heat into electricity. Its potential applications as thermoelectric technology are in automobile industry, thermal, chemical and steel power plants where large quantities of heat are wasted.

    27) Marshall Islands in Pacific Ocean is set to become first country in world to recognize cryptocurrency as its legal tender and adopt transparent crypto monetary system. The parliament of island has passed law to create the digital currency called “Sovereign” with symbol SOV to raise some hard cash to pay bills and boost economy. Key Facts: The Marshall Islands is partnering with Israeli fintech startup Neema to launch its SOV. It will have equal status with US dollar as form of payment. The island country will issue 24 million SOVs in Initial Currency Offering (ICO). It will be circulated as legal tender in the country, alongside its current local currency, US dollar. SOV issued by Marshall Islands will be different from other cryptocurrencies including bitcoin because it will be officially recognized by law as legal tender and effectively backed by government. SOV is based on permissioned protocol, dubbed “‘Yokwe” (meaning “hello” in local island language), which requires blockchain users of this distal currency to authenticate and identify themselves, thus avoid anonymity that has kept other cryptocurrencies from gaining support from governments. Initially 6 million SOVs will be sold to international investors and proceeds from it will be used to pay for its budget, invest in projects to mitigate effects of global warming and support those people still affected by US nuclear testing. It will also hand out 2.4 million SOVs to its residents and they can use it for everything from paying taxes to buying groceries, Background: The Marshall Islands is closely aligned with US under Compact of Free Association and uses US dollar as its official currency. Under compact association, US provides the Marshall Islands with about $70 million each year in assistance. In turn, US runs a military base on Island’s Kwajalein Atoll. Venezuela was the first country to officially launch its own cryptocurrency named Petro, backed by crude oil reserves but its validity as legal tender is not yet known.

    28) The 90th Academy Awards commonly referred to as Oscars was held at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, Los Angeles, California (US). The award presented in 24 categories by Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), honouring best films of year 2017. The Shape of Water won the most number of awards totaling to four at the ceremony after it was nominated into highest 13 categories. It was followed by Dunkirk, nominated for eight categories and Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, nominated for seven categories. Winners are- Best Picture: The Shape of Water. Best Actress: Frances McDormand (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri as Mildred Hayes). Best Actor: Gary Oldman (Darkest Hour as Winston Churchill). Best Director: Guillermo del Toro (The Shape of Water). Best Supporting Actress: Allison Janney – I (Tonya). Best Supporting Actor: Sam Rockwell (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri). Best Original Screenplay: Get Out – Written by Jordan Peele. Best Adapted Screenplay: Call Me by Your Name – James Ivory based on the novel by André Aciman. Best Cinematography: Blade Runner 2049 – Roger A. Deakins. Best Original Score: The Shape of Water – Alexandre Desplat. Best Original Song: “Remember Me” from Coco. Best Sound Editing: Dunkirk – Richard King and Alex Gibson. Best Foreign Language Film: A Fantastic Woman (Chile) in Spanish. Best Film Editing: Dunkirk. Best Visual Effects: Blade Runner 2049. Best Production Design: The Shape of Water. Best Sound Mixing: Dunkirk. Best Documentary-Feature: Icarus. Best Animated Feature Film: Coco. Best Animated Short Film: Dear Basketball. Best Documentary-Short Subject: Heaven Is a Traffic Jam on the 405. Best Live Action Short Film: The Silent Child. Best Make-Up and Hairstyling: Darkest Hour. Best Costume Design: Phantom Thread. Academy Awards (Oscars): Academy Awards, famously known as “Oscars” is a group of 24 artistic and technical honours that recognizes excellence in cinematic achievements in US film industry. It is given annually by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). The award was first presented in 1929. The winners are awarded a copy of a statuette officially called the Academy Award of Merit (famously referred as Oscar Award).

    29) Myanmar has indefinitely deferred signing agreement with India to streamline free movement of people within 16 km along open border between two countries. It has cited domestic compulsions and has asked for more time for the agreement to be sealed. Background: India and Myanmar share 1,643 km unfenced border along four states viz. Arunachal Pradesh (520 km), Nagaland (215 km), Manipur (398 km) and Mizoram (510 km) and permit free movement regime (FMR) upto 16 km beyond border. In January 2018, Union Cabinet had approved agreement (Memorandum of Understanding) between India and Myanmar on land border crossing to enhance economic interaction between people of two countries. To give it shape, Central Government had asked four border states with Myanmar to distribute “border pass” to all the residents living within 16 km from the border. The agreement has been deferred twice in the past seven months. Significance of agreement: The agreement will facilitate movement of people on basis of valid passports and visas which will enhance economic and social interaction between two countries. It will facilitate regulation and harmonization of already existing free movement rights for people ordinarily residing in border areas of both countries. It will also give boost to economy of North East and leverage geographical connections with Myanmar to boost trade and people to people ties. It will also safeguard traditional rights of largely tribal communities residing along border which are accustomed to free movement across land border. Free movement regime (FMR): FMR was bilateral agreement between India and Myanmar that allows free movement of Indian and Myanmarese citizens within 16 km of the border without visa restrictions for 72 hours. Its purpose is to alleviate insecurity of tribals living along India and Myanmar border as they still continue to have trans-border linkages with their kiths and kins. This regime has been in place to protect traditional social relations among border people. However, it has been misused by militants and criminals who are using it to smuggle weapons, narcotics, contraband goods and Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN). Both countries are intend to put common system in place to append India’s concerns. Border Pass Proposal: There are over 250 villages with over 300,000 people living within 10 km of border who frequently cross it through 150 small and large, formal and informal, border crossings. As per proposal, there will be no restrictions on movement of people across borders. But, domiciles across the border will be allotted border passes and those going across for agriculture, work or to meet relatives need to carry pass all times.

    30) According to recent figures compiled by US Treasury Department, India is 12th largest overseas holder of US government securities. India’s exposure to it has risen sharply to high of US $144.7 billion at end of 2017. The preliminary data from June 2017 benchmark survey of foreign portfolio holdings of US securities showed that total value of such holding was $18.44 trillion. Out of the total, $7.19 trillion was in equities, $10.29 trillion in long-term debt securities and $954 billion in short-term debt securities. Key Facts: India holdings in US government securities in 2017 have raised except for few months when total exposure had declined. India’s holding of India went up to US $144.7 billion in December 2017, which was increase of little over $26 billion compared to year-ago period. In December 2016, India’s exposure was just $118.2 billion. While holding at end of December 2017 is at one-year high compared to December 2016, the exposure was slightly higher at $145.1 billion in September 2017. In 2017, China was largest holder of US government securities with holdings to tune of $1.18 trillion, followed by Japan at $1.06 trillion. Ireland was third with holdings of $326.5 billion followed by Cayman Islands ($269.9 billion), Brazil ($256.8 billion), UK ($250 billion), Switzerland ($249.6 billion), Luxembourg ($217.6 billion), Hong Kong ($194.7 billion) and Taiwan ($180.9 billion). Among the BRIC countries, India had the third largest exposure while that of Russia was lower at $102.2 billion.

    31) Krishna Kumari Kolhi (39) from Sindh province in Pakistan became first-ever Dalit Hindu woman to get elected as Senator, member of upper house (Senate) of Muslim-majority country. She won the election for the reserved seat for women from Sindh province. She is a member of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari-led Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). Her election represents major milestone for women and minority rights in Pakistan. Earlier, PPP had elected first Hindu woman named Ratna Bhagwandas Chawla as senator. Krishna Kumari Kohli: She belongs to remote village in Nagarparkar district of Thar in Sindh province of Pakistan. Kohli was born in February 1979 in poor family. She and her family members had spent nearly three years in private jail (as forced bonded labours) owned by landlord of Kunri in Umerkot district. She was grade 3 student at time when her family held captive. She belongs to family of valiant freedom fighter Rooplo Kolhi, who had waged a war against invading British colonialist forces when they had attacked Sindh from Nagarparkar side in 1857. At the age of 16, she was married to Lalchand. Even after marriage she pursued her studies and in 2013 completed masters in sociology from the Sindh University. She had joined PPP as social activist along with her brother, who was later elected as Chairman of Union Council Berano. She has actively participated and worked for rights of downtrodden people of marginalised communities living in Thar and other areas.

    32) India and Vietnam have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in field of atomic energy during official state visit Tran Dai Quang, President of Vietnam to India. It was signed between Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership, India (GCNEP) and Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute (VINATOM). Its purpose is to strengthen technical cooperation in field of atomic energy for peaceful purposes. Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP): GCNEP is sixth Research & Development unit under Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). It is located near Bahadurgarh, Haryana. It helps in capacity building, in association with interested countries and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). It is involved technology, human resource development, education & training and giving momentum to R&D in enlisted areas. Objectives of GCNEP: Develop enhanced nuclear safeguards to effectively and efficiently monitor nuclear materials and facilities. Establish accreditation facilities for radiation monitoring. Train manpower in field of Nuclear Security and Radiological Safety. Promote development of advanced, more proliferation resistant nuclear power reactors. Provide education in field of Advanced Nuclear Energy Systems, Isotopes and Radiation Technologies, nuclear forensic.

    33) Odisha Government has launched ‘Ama Gaon, Ama Vikas’ (Our Village, our development) programme to reach out to people in rural areas and involve themselves in developmental activities. As part of it, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik flagged off mobile video vans that will move across the state to highlight various welfare schemes at villages in the state. It will enable people to connect with the government Key Facts: Under this programme, people can directly send their grievances to Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) at Secretariat in Bhubaneswar through Wi-Fi enabled latest technology video wall vans. This initiative administration will help people in solving their grievances instantly. In the first phase of programme, these vans will reach Koraput, Jajpur, Ganjam and Sambalpur districts of state.

    34) India and Vietnam have signed three agreements including landmark pact on civil nuclear cooperation to boost bilateral relations. These agreements were inked after Prime Minister Narendra Modi held talks with visiting President of Vietnam, Tran Dai Quang in New Delhi. Vietnam is one of India’s closest strategic partners in the ASEAN region. Signed Agreements are: MoU on Economic and Trade Cooperation: Its purpose is to establish a framework for enhancing economic and trade promotion. MoU on Cooperation in the field of atomic energy: It was signed between the Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership, India (GCNEP) and Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute (VINATOM). Its purpose is to strengthen the technical cooperation in the field of atomic energy for peaceful purposes. Work Plan for years 2018-2022 in Agriculture: It was signed between Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam. Its purpose is to promote cooperation in transfer of technology and exchange of visits of technical experts in the fields of agriculture and allied. Key Takeaways from Joint Statement issued: India and Vietnam agreed to work for independent, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific region where sovereignty and international laws are respected and disputes are resolved through dialogue. They are committed to expanding maritime ties and ensure an open, transparent, inclusive and rules-based regional architecture. Both countries will work together for regional security, including maritime and cyber security. They respect the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and will further deepen Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Both countries agreed to increase cooperation in defence production and also explore possibilities in co-production and transfer of technology in defence sector as defence and security is important pillar of the strong bilateral ties. Both countries will further strengthen trade and investment ties, including in sectors like agriculture and agro-products, renewable energy, textiles and oil and gas. They will also strengthen their longstanding bilateral partnership in oil and gas and explore possibilities of working with other countries for trilateral partnership. They will increase two-way investment and hoped that bilateral trade will reach $15 billion by 2020.

    35) The World Wildlife Day is observed every year on 3rd March to celebrate and raise awareness about the world’s wild fauna and flora. It is celebrated to mark the signing of Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) on this day in 1973. Significance of Day: It aims to create awareness and encourages people across the globe to protect endangered species. It also calls for taking up urgent steps to fight wildlife crime which has wide-ranging environmental, economic and social impacts. The theme for this year is ‘Big Cats: Predators under Threat’. Big cats are among most widely recognized and admired animals across the globe. These predators are facing many and varied threats, mostly caused by human activities. Overall, their populations are declining at disturbing rate due to loss of habitat and prey, conflicts with people, poaching and illegal trade. The theme aims to raise awareness about plight of big cats and galvanize support for many global and national actions that underway to save these iconic species. It also expands definition of big cats being used, which includes not only lion, tiger, leopard and jaguar (4 largest wild cats that can roar) but also cheetah, snow leopard, puma, clouded leopard, etc. Background: The World Wildlife Day was designated by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at its 68th session on 20 December 2013. On this day in 1973, CITES was adopted. Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES): CITES is international agreement to regulate worldwide commercial trade in wild animal and plant species. Its aim is to ensure that international trade does not threaten the survival of the species in the wild. It was drafted as a result of a resolution adopted in 1963 at a meeting of members of IUCN. It entered into force in July 1975. It is administered through United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It’s secretariat is located in Geneva (Switzerland). CITES is legally binding on state parties to the convention, which are obliged to adopt their own domestic legislation to implement its goals. It classifies plants and animals according to three categories, or appendices, based on how threatened. In addition CITES also restricts trade in items made from such plants and animals, such as food, clothing, medicine, and souvenirs.

    36) India, Bangladesh and Russia have signed tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) for cooperation in construction of Rooppur nuclear power plant near Dhaka, Bangladesh. It is first initiative under India-Russia nuclear deal to undertake atomic energy projects in third countries. It will also be India’s first atomic energy venture abroad. Rooppur nuclear power plant: Rooppur Nuclear project is having capacity of 2*1200 MWs. It is Bangladesh’s first atomic energy project. It is being built with Russia’s help near Dhaka. After commissioning of this plant, Bangladesh will become third South Asian country after India and Pakistan to harness atomic energy for energy purpose. Russia will build nuclear power plant for this plant on a turnkey basis. It means that contractor will complete whole project and they will be liable for any problems that arise in plant. Russia’s scope of work includes design, production and supply of equipment, construction, installation, start-up and commissioning. India being not member of Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) will not participate directly in construction of atomic power reactors. But, Indian companies will be involved in construction and installation works and in supply of equipment of non-critical category. Background: In December 2014, India and Russia had signed ‘Strategic Vision for Strengthening Cooperation in Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy’ to explore opportunities for sourcing materials, equipment and services from Indian industry for construction of Russian-designed nuclear power plants in third countries. Moreover, India had signed a civil nuclear cooperation deal, along with two more agreements, with Bangladesh in April 2017 under which two sides can supply and manufacture equipment, material for atomic power plant. Comment: The nuclear deal with Bangladesh allows Indian nuclear establishment to grow, internationally as for years it was not been able to grow due to sanctions imposed on New Delhi post 1974 Pokhran tests. However, it is not clear what kind of nuclear collaboration India is having with Bangladesh since both countries are not members of Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), an elite grouping of 48 members that prevent nuclear proliferation by controlling export of materials, equipment and technology that can be used to manufacture nuclear weapons.

    37) Indian Navy’s sailboat INSV Tarini, led by all-women crew, reached Cape Town, South Africa as part of Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition. This stop is last phase of its maiden voyage to circumnavigate globe before it depart Cape Town and return to Goa in April 2018, on completion of the voyage. So far the vessel has covered 1,75,00 nautical miles from its start in Goa in September 2017. The expedition was covered all five legs, with stop-overs at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttleton (New Zealand), Port Stanley (Falklands-UK), and Cape Town (South Africa). The vessel has passed through Indian, Pacific and Atlantic oceans so far. Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition: The Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition was flagged-off by Nirmala Sitharaman Goa in September 2017. This is the first-ever Indian circumnavigation of the globe by an all-women crew. The vessel is skippered by Lieutenant Commander Vartika Joshi, and all women crew comprises Lieutenant Commanders Pratibha Jamwal, P Swathi, and Lieutenants S Vijaya Devi, B Aishwarya and Payal Gupta. The expedition is consonance with national policy to empower women to attain their full potential. It also aims to showcase Nari Shakti on world platform and help in transforming societal attitudes and mindset towards women in India by raising visibility of their participation in challenging environments. The crew is collating and updating meteorological, ocean and wave data on regular basis for accurate weather forecast by India Meteorological Department (IMD), as also monitoring marine pollution on high seas. The indigenously-built INSV Tarini is 56-foot sailing vessel. It showcases ‘Make in India’ initiative on international forum.

    38) The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development has approved projects worth Rs 2,919 crore under Nirbhaya Fund for creating eight safe cities. They are Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Lucknow. Key Facts: The projects for safe cities will have special focus on women safety in public spaces and quick response systems to create deterrence against crime. Plans for safe cities were prepared in coordination with municipal corporations and police commissionerates of these cities. Delhi: Project worth Rs 663 crore was approved to enhance safety of public places like roads, schools and metro stations. It includes use of latest technology such as video monitoring, facial recognition analytics, and person tracking systems. It will also provide dedicated women safety patrol vans equipped with GPS tracking and on-board video feed sharing to the existing fleet of the Delhi Police. Mumbai: Project worth Rs 252 crore was sanctioned to enable GIS mapping of criminal hotspots, video surveillance, training of investigating officers and quick response police teams. It will also strengthen Police Didi programme wherein female police officers interact with women living in slums. Chennai: It will receive Rs 425 crore for project that will create safe-zone clusters at hot crime zones, security in public transport, GIS-based crime mapping, capacity building of police authorities as well as a helpdesk service for women. Moreover, cyber-crime and legal assistance compensation lab will also be set up. Ahmedabad: Rs 253 crore was approved for ABHAYAM Vans for quick response to women in distress, ‘She Teams’ of women for surveillance and One Stop Crisis Centres. The project also envisages redevelopment of Sabarmati River Front to make it more womenfriendly. Kolkata: It will get Rs 181.32 crore for various schemes, including for strengthening nine women police stations. Bengaluru: It will get Rs 667 crore for projects which will be utilised for setting up women police outposts and creation of safety islands. Nirbhaya Fund: The fund is created by Ministry of Finance in 2013. It dedicated for implementation of initiatives aimed at enhancing the safety and security for women in the country. It is a non-lapsable corpus fund. It is being monitored by Empowered Committee of Officers under Secretary of Women and Child Development Ministry. It is an inter-ministerial committee appraises and recommends various projects (schemes) proposed by different ministries to be funded from Nirbhaya Fund. Between 2013 and 2017, the corpus of Nirbhaya Fund has grown to Rs 3,100 crore.

    39) Bharati Defence and Infrastructure Ltd (BDIL) delivered high-speed interceptor boat ICG C-162 to Indian Coast Guard (ICG) at BDIL jetty in Mangaluru, Karnataka. It is fifth interceptor boat delivered by BDIL’s Mangaluru shipyard to ICG. The sixth boat will be delivered after three-and-a-half months of the delivery of the fifth boat. ICG C-162: The vessel will be based at Kochi, Kerala and will be used for patrolling purposes. It can accommodate 11 crew members. The vessel was launched in January 2018 and has successfully completed the harbour and sea trials. It is 28 metres long with aluminium hull and weighs about 60 DWT. It is designed for a speed up to 35 knots. It is fitted with new generation of Arneson Surface Drive propulsion system, propelled by two engines of 1650 kW each.

    40) The state-owned banks have started rationalising overseas operations by consolidating 35 operations and closing down non-viable branches as part of the clean and responsible banking initiative. The consolidation oncludes bank branches, remittance centres and representative offices. It will be without affecting international presence of PSBs in these countries. Moreover, 69 operations also have been identified for further examination. It is part of government’s commitment to ‘clean and responsible banking and move towards cost efficiencies and synergies in overseas market. Background: The rationalisation of overseas operations of banks comes at the time when jewellery designer Nirav Modi had allegedly cheated Punjab National Bank (PNB) of Rs.12,700 crore in connivance with PNB staff and officials of overseas branches of other state-owned banks. Presently, public sector banks have about 165 overseas branches, besides subsidiaries, joint ventures and representative offices. State Bank of India (SBI) has largest number of overseas branches (52) followed by Bank of Baroda (50) and Bank of India (29). The state-owned banks have largest number of branches in United Kingdom (32) followed by Hong Kong and UAE (13 each) and Singapore (12). As per the banking sector agenda approved at PSB Manthan in November 2017 public sector banks (PSBs) have to examine all 216 overseas operations.

    41) The China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) has announced to build its first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Liaoning by the middle of the next decade. It was announced as part of its list of ambitions hope to achieve in weaponry and technical developments for People’s Liberation Army (PLA)-Navy by 2025. Key Facts: China has ambition to have four carrier groups operating with PLA-Navy by 2030. The Liaoning is currently only carrier in fleet, but its variant Type 001A is expected to go into full service by end of 2018. The Type 001A was first aircraft carrier built indigenously by shipyard workers in China. Liaoning is derived from old and unfinished Soviet hull, purchased by China from Ukraine. At present, China’s navy has two aircraft carriers running on conventional oil. French Navy’s flagship, the Charles de Gaulle is only non-US aircraft carrier powered by nuclear reactors. US Navy’s each Nimitz-class and Ford-class carrier is run by nuclear power.

    42) Ace wrestler Navjot Kaur won gold medal in the 65kg freestyle wrestling category of Senior Asian Championships held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. With this, she created history by becoming first Indian woman wrestler to win gold medal in Senior Asian Championships. This was also India’s first gold in the ongoing championships. In the final match the women’s 65kg freestyle wrestling category, Navjot defeated Japan’s Miya Imai by 9-1 score. Earlier, Rio Olympics bronze medallist Sakshi Malik had who won the bronze in 62kg freestyle category after defeating Kazakhstan’s Ayaulym Kassymova 10-7. These two medals have taken India’s overall medal tally to six, which consisted one gold, silver and four bronze medals. Navjot Kaur: Navjot Kaur (born 10 February 1990) represents India in the women’s freestyle wrestling in 67 kg category. She had won Bronze medal (67 kg category) at 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games. In Asian Wrestling Championships, she had won Bronze medal in 2011, Silver medal in 2013. In 2013 Wrestling World Cup held in Ulanbaatar she had won Bronze medal.

    43) A new train between Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh and Anand Vihar Terminal in the national capital named Arunachal Express was flagged off. This is the second direct train for Arunachal Pradesh and overall 14th for North East to connect with the national capital. Arunachal Express: The train will cover 2013 kilometre distance between Naharlagun (Arunachal Pradesh) and Anand Vihar Terminal (New Delhi) in over 38 hours and will have 14 stoppages en-route. It has all air-conditioned LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches. It will offer all comfort and facilities to the passengers. Background: Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Itanagar in February 2018 had announced increasing frequency of Naharlagun-New Delhi AC Express train from one day week to twice and to rechristened it as ‘Arunachal Express’.

    44) India and Jordan have 12 agreements covering areas as diverse as defence, mass media, health, culture and tourism. These agreements were signed after the highlevel talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jordanian King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein in New Delhi. Jordanian King was on three days visit to India. It was his only second to India, that too after more than a decade. Signed Agreements are: MoU on Defence Cooperation, Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP). Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement. MoU between PrasarBharati and Jordan TV. Twining Agreement between Agra and Petra (Jordan). Visa waiver for diplomatic and official passport holders. MoU for long term supply of Rock Phosphate and Fertilizer/NPK. MoU for setting up of the next generation Centre of Excellence (COE) in Jordan. MoU for cooperation in the field of Health and Medicine between India and Jordan. MoU between University of Jordan (UJ) and ICCR regarding setting up of a Hindi Chair at the University. Cooperation between Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) and Jordan Media Institute (JMI). India-Jordan Relations: Both countries had established diplomatic relations in 1950 after India became independent in 1947. Recent years have witnessed decisive impetus to the bilateral partnership. Both countries are facing common threat of terrorism and extremism. Over the last few years, political, security and economic developments in West Asia are helping the two countries re-discover each other. India is Jordan’s fourth largest trading partner. Bilateral trade between both countries has totalled US $2.2 billion in 2014-15. India exported $1.4 billion worth of goods to Jordan, and imported $857 million. Since 2012-13, the balance of trade has been in India’s favour.

    45) Tri-service maritime exercise Paschim Lehar conducted by Indian Navy concluded off western coast in Arabian Sea. The objective of the exercise was to build interoperability between Indian Navy, Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Coast Guard. Key Facts: The three-week long exercise tested operational readiness of Indian Navy’s Western Command and execution of its operational plans, logistics and administrative plans. Over 40 naval assets including aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, frontline ships of Western Fleet and Eastern Fleet, including newly-inducted Kolkata class ones, submarines, potent missile vessels of 22nd Killer Squadron, patrol vessels and craft of local flotilla and Coast Guard participated in the exercise. The exercise also witnessed intense flying activity by carrier-borne Mig29K, P-8I, IL-38SDs, Dorniers and Remotely Piloted Aircraft. It also witnessed enhanced participation by Indian Air Force (IAF) planes, in coordinated flying missions with Indian Navy’s air assets. Maritime role Jaguars, Su-30 MKI, AWACS and Flight Refuellers participated in large numbers from different airfields in Gujarat, Maharashtra and North India. Moreover, amphibious landing exercise was also conducted, which included participation of the 91 Infantry Brigade of Indian Army. The exercise enabled testing and revalidation of operational plans and manoeuvres in a hostile maritime scenario on India’s Western seaboard. It also rehearsed defence of Indian offshore assets like oil rigs, escort operations of merchant ships and coastal defence.

     

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