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  • WBCS Current Affairs 16 December 2017 to 22 December 2017

    1) India and Myanmar signed memorandum of understanding (MoU) aimed at developing Myanmar’s Rakhine state. It was signed by Foreign secretary S Jaishankar and Myanmar’s deputy minister for social welfare, relief and resettlement U Soe Aung. Background: The MoU comes in backdrop of massive migration of Rohingya refugees from violence-wracked Rakhine to Bangladesh. Human rights monitors have accused Myanmar’s military of atrocities against Rohingyas. The minority Rohingya community does not enjoy citizenship in Myanmar. According to UN estimates, since August 2017 more than 6,00,000 Rohingya refugees have fled to neighbouring Bangladesh after incidents of violence and oppression in Rakhine State. India has maintained that this issue should be handled in humane manner, development activities should be initiated in Rakhine State and conditions should be created for safe and secure return of refugees to their homes. Key Facts: This MoU is first government to government (G2G) agreement signed by Myanmar with a cooperation partner focussed on socio-economic development and livelihood initiatives in Rakhine State. It is intended to help Myanmar to achieve its objective of restoration of normalcy in Rakhine State and enable return of displaced persons. Under this MoU, India has proposed to take up projects to build prefabricated housing in Rakhine State to meet immediate needs of returning people and also in Chittagong in Bangladesh. Significance of Rakhine state: Rakhine is critical to strategic objectives of India in the region. Kaladan multimodal project, India’s dream connectivity project in region, originates from restive state. In addition, number of ongoing friendship projects also includes Sittwe port (capital of Rakhine province) and road from Paletwa–Zorinpui. Other key projects that are being built by India are Rhi-Tiddim road project, India-Myanmar-Thailand (IMT) Trilateral Highway road from Kalewa to Yargyi, project to build 69 bridges on Tamu–Kyigone–Kalewa road, Yamethin Police Training Centre and hospital projects.2) The Lok Sabha has passed Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill, 2017 to make it easier for government to acquire immovable property for “national security and defence purpose”. The Bill amends the Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property Act, 1952 and changes rules for payment of compensation. Key Features of Bill: The bill seeks to amend a provision to allow Centre to re-issue the notice of acquisition in order to ensure that the property’s owner gets an opportunity to be heard. Through it, government intends to pay fair and just compensation to land owner. In cases where notice has been re-issued, property owner will be entitled to interest on compensation payable to them. The re-issue of notice will not apply to cases where compensation has already been awarded and accepted by the claimants. The bill will have retrospective effect from March 14, 1952, the date of the enactment of the Act. Significance: The amendment to the Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property Act, 1952 has been done in the interest of the security of the nation. It will help corrupt elements from taking undue advantage by misusing the litigation process. Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property Act, 1952: The Act provides for central government to requisition immovable property or land for any public purpose such as defence, central government offices and residences. Once the purpose for which property was requisitioned is over, Central Government must returned it back to owner in good condition as it was when possession was taken. The central government may acquire such requisitioned property in two cases. Firstly incase central government has constructed any work at such property and right to use such work is with government. Secondly incase cost of restoring requisitioned property to original condition is excessive and owner refuses to accept property without being compensated for restoring property.3) The 11th edition of Naseem-Al-Bahr (Sea Breeze) 2017 Naval exercise between India and Oman was held at Said Bin Sultan Naval Base, Wudam in Oman. The year marks 24 years of Indian Navy-Royal Navy of Oman bilateral exercises that has been a biennial feature since 1993. Key Facts: The Indian Navy had deployed two naval ships – INS Trikand and INS Teg in this edition of bilateral exercise for the harbour phase. In sea phase of the exercise, Indian Navy ships along with four Royal Navy of Oman ships Al Mubashir, Al Rasikh, Khassab and Al Bushra had sailed. Ffor the first time, an Indian Navy had deployed submarine as well as the versatile P8I, long range maritime aircraft are participating. Background: India has ancient maritime tradition and maritime interaction with Oman dates back to over 4000 years BC. Bilateral relations between both countries were formally established with signing of 1953 Indo-Oman Treaty of friendship, Navigation and Commerce. It was first between India and Arab country. Since then, bilateral naval exercises have contributed to strengthening of bilateral ties between both countries. The first exercise Indian Navy with Royal Navy of Oman was conducted in 1993. Further signing of MoU on Defence Cooperation in December 2005 and subsequent establishment of oint Military Cooperation (JMC) in March 2006 had set foundation for increased defence cooperation. The naval cooperation between both countries since then has gradually increased in scope and scale.Continue Reading WBCS Current Affairs 16 December 2017 to 22 December 2017.

    4) The Lok Sabha passed Indian Forest (Amendment) Bill, 2017. The bill replaces Indian Forest (Amendment) Ordinance, 2017 promulgated by President Ram Nath Kovind in November 2017 and amends Indian Forest Act, 1927. Background: Though, bamboo was taxonomically a grass, it was earlier defined as a tree under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 and its felling and transit required permission. It was major impediment for bamboo cultivation by farmers on non-forest land. Key Facts: The bill omits bamboo (taxonomically a grass) grown in non-forest areas from definition of trees. The omission, thereby exempts it from requiring permits for felling or transportation of bamboo grown in non-forest areas. With this, bamboo grown in non-forest areas ceases to be tree. It will encourage bamboo plantation by farmers, which will contribute to doubling farmers income by 2022. Indian Forest Act, 1927: The Act consolidates laws relating to forests, transit of forest-produce and duty to be levied on them. Under it, the definition of tree includes palms, stumps, bamboos, brush-wood, and canes. Significances of Bill: It will usher in much needed and far-reaching reforms in bamboo sector. It will remove legal and regulatory hardships being faced by farmers and private individuals. It will create viable option for cultivation in 12.6 million hectares of cultivable waste land and in creation of job opportunities in the country. It will help in enhancing agricultural income of farmers and tribals, especially in north-east and central India. It will encourage farmers to take up plantation or block plantation of suitable bamboo species on degraded land, in addition to plantation on agricultural land and other private lands under agroforestry mission. It will also enhance supply of raw material to traditional craftsmen of rural India, bamboo based paper and pulp industries, furniture making units, cottage industries, fabric making units, incense stick making units. It will also help to promote major bamboo applications such as wood substitutes and composites like panels, flooring, furniture and bamboo blind. It will also help industries such as those dealing with food products (bamboo shoots), constructions and housing, bamboo charcoal etc. It will greatly aid success of National Bamboo Mission. It is also in line with objective of doubling farmers income, besides conservation and sustainable development. Bamboo also has several ecological benefits such as soil-moisture conservation, conserving wildlife habitat, landslide prevention and rehabilitation, enhancing source of bio-mass, besides serving as a substitute for timber.

    5) The Union Cabinet has approved proposal of Ministry of Railways to set up first ever National Rail and Transport University (NRTU) in Vadodara to skill its human resources and build capability. The University will be set up as Deemed to Be University under de novo category as per UGC (Institutions Deemed to be Universities) Regulations, 2016. The first academic program is expected to be launched in July 2018. Key Facts: The Ministry of Railways will set up a not-for-profit Company under Section 8 of the Companies Act, 2013 as Managing Company of proposed university. The company will provide financial and infrastructural support to the university and appoint Chancellor and Pro-Chancellor of the university. Board of Management of the company will comprise of professionals and academics. It will be independent of Managing Company with full autonomy to perform its academic and administrative responsibilities. The funding of the new University will entirely come from Ministry of Railways. It will set up on existing land and infrastructure at National Academy of Indian Railways (NAIR) at Vadodara, Gujarat. In its full enrolment, it is expected to have 3000 full time students. Significance: This university will create a resource pool of skilled manpower and leverage state-of-the-art technology to provide better safety, speed and service in Indian Railways. It will support ‘Startup India’ and ‘Skill India’ by channeling technology and delivering knowhow, and foster entrepreneurship, generating large scale employment opportunities. This will help for transformation of railway and transportation sector and enable faster movement of people and goods. The university plans to use latest pedagogy and technology applications to improve on-the-job performance and productivity. It will have ‘Centres of Excellence’ showcasing high-end, niche technology like High Speed Train. Need: Indian Railways has embarked ambitious projects such as High Speed Trains (popularly known as bullet train) between Mumbai and Ahmedabad. It will include massive infrastructure modernisation, Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs), highest focus on safety etc. For this, Indian Railways will require high level of proficiency and skills which will be provided by the University.

    6) The Union Cabinet has approved extension of term of Commission to examine the issue of sub-categorization of Other Backward Classes (OBCs), by 12 weeks i.e. upto 2 April, 2018. The extension of tenure will enable Commission to submit a comprehensive report on issue of sub-categorization of OBCs, after consultation with various stakeholders. Key Facts: The Commission headed by retired Chief Justice of Delhi High Court G. Rohini was constituted under Article 340 of Constitution with approval of President Ram Nath Kovind in October 2017. It was stipulated to submit its report within 12 weeks from assumption of charge by Chairperson. But it had sought extension of its term by 12 weeks, keeping in view voluminous data involved and time required for its analysis to prepare comprehensive report. Sub-categorisation: Sub-categorisation of OBCs aims to ensure more equitable distribution of reservations in government jobs and educational institutions so that dominant groups among OBCs do not corner all benefits. The exercise will involve sub-categorisation of 5,000 castes in central OBC list. Terms of reference of Commission: The commission will examine extent of inequitable distribution of benefits of reservation among castes included in broad category of OBCs, especially with reference to OBCs included in the Central list. It will also take up exercise of identifying respective castes/sub-castes/communities synonyms in Central List of OBCs and classify them into their respective sub-categories. It will work out mechanism, norms, criteria and parameters, in scientific approach, for sub-categorization within such OBCs. Background: The Supreme Court in Indra Sawhney and others vs. Union of India case (1992) had observed that there is no constitutional or legal bar on states for categorizing OBCs as backward or more backward. It had also observed that it is not impermissible in law if state chooses to do sub-categorization. So far, 9 states/UTs viz. Karnataka, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Puducherry, Telangana, Wst Bengal, Bihar, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu have carried out sub-categorization of OBCs. So far there was no sub categorisation in central list of OBCs.

    7) India has inked Financing Agreement with World Bank for International Development Association (IDA) Credit of US $125 million (equivalent) for Skills Strengthening for Industrial Value Enhancement Operation (STRIVE) Project. The objective of project is to improve access to quality and market-driven vocational training and apprenticeships. The closing date for the project is 30th November, 2022. Result areas for project include: Improved Teaching and Learning; Improved and Broadened Apprenticeship Training; Improved Performance of Industrial Training Institutes. Increased Capacities of State Governments to Support Industrial Training Institutes and Apprenticeship Training.

    8) Indian Navy in collaboration with Sri Lankan counterpart has successfully completed second phase of joint oceanographic survey conducted off the South Western Coast of Sri Lanka. The Indian side has handed over the survey charts to the Commander of the Sri Lankan Navy. The survey had commenced in October with the arrival of Indian Naval Ship Sutlej in Sri Lanka. Key Facts: The aim of the joint survey was to update all navigational charts covering the southern Sri Lankan waters with the latest hydrographic data. The survey was extended to depth contour of 200 m from coastline, ranging from Colombo to Galle. It also aimed to bolster cooperation between the two countries in the field of hydrography. The exercise provided opportunity for both navies to learn from each other experience and build on already existing high level of compatibility between them. Significance: The move is expected to benefit international shipping traffic passing along southern coast of Sri Lanka and will pave way for blue economy. It is also expected to enhance level of navigational safety of all ships visiting Sri Lanka. Background: The first phase of the joint survey was conducted from March to May 2017 and the third phase is scheduled to be carried out next year. It was undertaken by Indian Naval ship INS Darshak, which is an indigenously designed and constructed vessel fitted with the latest state of the art survey equipment. The task in first phase also included imparting of extensive training to the Sri Lankan Navy personnel who were embarked onboard ship to assist in capacity building of Sri Lankan Navy’s Hydrographic Department. The third phase is expected to be undertaken in 2018.

    9) The Lok Sabha has unanimously passed Central Road Fund (Amendment) Bill, 2017. The Bill seeks to amend the Central Road Fund (CRF) Act, 2000. The CRF Act regulates Central Road Fund (CRF) into which cess levied and collected on high speed petrol and diesel is credited for development of national and state highways. Central Road Fund (CRF): CRF was established to fund development and maintenance of National Highways, State Highways and Rural roads by the Government. In order to mobilise the fund, the CRF Act has proposed to levy and collect cess on petrol and high speed diesel oil. The fund is utilised for development and maintenance of National highways, State Highways, Rural roads and also road overbridges, under bridges and other safety features at unmanned Railway Crossings. Key Features of Bill: The Bill seeks to allocate share of this cess towards development of inland waterways. The Bill defines national waterways as those under National Waterways Act, 2016. Currently, 111 waterways are specified under this Act. Utilization of fund: The Bill provides that in addition to utilization of this fund for various road projects, it will also be used for the development and maintenance of national waterways. Power of central government: The Bill expands power of central government for administering the fund for the purpose of investment decisions for national waterways as well. Allocation of cess: The Bill decreases allocation of cess towards development and maintenance of national highways from 41.5% to 39%. It allocates 2.5% of cess towards development and maintenance of national waterways. Need: National Waterways is cost effective, environment friendly and logistically efficient mode of transportation. Its development will serve as supplementary to existing transportation modes that will enable diversion of traffic from over-congested roads and railways. The National Waterways Act, 2016 enacted by Parliament had increased total number of national waterways to 111 from earlier 5. In order to develop national waterways with modern infrastructure, sustainable source of funding is needed as a budgetary support as funds from multilateral institutions are inadequate. The Central Road Fund (CRF) arrangement will make available adequate and sustainable source of funding for NWs through institutional means.

    10) The Parliament has passed Indian Institutes of Management (IIM) Bill, 2017 to extend greater autonomy to IIMs by restricting government’s role in their functioning. It also grants them power to award degrees to their graduates. Key Features of Bill: The Bill declares the IIMs as institutions of national importance. It seeks to empower IIMs to attain standards of global excellence in management, management research and allied areas of knowledge. It also promises to grant administrative, academic and financial autonomy to these B-Schools. The bill allows IIMs to grant degrees to their students. It also grants them complete autonomy, combined with adequate accountability. It establishes coordination Forum of IIMs as advisory body. It empowers board of IIM to drive the management of the institution. The board will have greater participation of experts and alumni. It will select Chairperson and Director of IIM. It will also include women and members from Scheduled Castes/Tribes. Besides, it adds provisions for periodic review of the performance of IIM by independent agencies and their results will be placed in public domain. Besides, it also has provision to place Annual Report of the IIMs in the Parliament and Comptroller and auditor general of India (CAG) auditing their accounts. Background: IIMs are country’s premier institutions imparting best quality education in management and are recognized as world-class management Institutions and Centres of Excellence. India has 20 IIMs now. Earlier, all IIMs are separate autonomous bodies registered under Societies Act. As autonomous bodies and not educational bodies, they were hey were not authorized to award degrees. These awards were treated as equivalent to MBAs and Ph.D, respectively, but their equivalence was not universally acceptable, especially for the Fellow Programme.

    11) The Parliament has passed Companies (Amendment) Bill, 2017 to strengthen corporate governance standards, initiate strict action against defaulting companies and help improve ease of doing business in the country, The bill provides for more than 40 amendments to Companies Act, 2013. It will help in simplifying procedures, make compliance easy and take stringent action against defaulting companies. Key Features of Bill: Group company structure and compliance procedures: The bill has changed definitions relating to ‘holding company’, ‘subsidiary company’, ‘associate company’. It will have impact on group company structure and compliance procedures. Compliance procedures and approval mechanism: It enhances scope of compliance procedures and approval mechanism of Related Party Transaction of related parties. Shares on private placement basis: It amends this provision in parent Act. It will have impact on both – private companies and public companies. Maintenance of Register of significant beneficial owners in a company: The bill adds this new provision. Besides, changes provisions relating to board meetings and shareholders’ meetings, based on operational and compliance issues faced by the corporates. Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): The amendment to CSR provisions are particularly related to its applicability and constitution of CSR. It takes into account the interpretational and operational issues. Resident Director and Independent Director: It provides for clarity in applicability and role of Resident Director and Independent Director. Further it elaborated ‘Pecuniary relationship’ in relation to independent directors. Loans to Directors: The bill substitutes entire section relating to ‘Loans to Directors’ under the Companies Act, 2013. It introduces certain checks and balances by way of approval process and for enabling ‘loans to directors’, in certain cases. Managerial Remuneration: It liberalises provision related to Managerial Remuneration. It replaces requirement of Central Government approval by requirement of approval of shareholders, secured creditors and non-convertible debenture holders, as the case maybe. Auditors Report: It mandates requirement that Statutory Auditor of company to report in its Auditors Report on compliance of provisions of managerial remuneration and whether remuneration paid to any director is in excess of prescribed limits.

    12) The Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) of Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has accorded environmental clearance for Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) in Telangana. The project is to build at estimated to cost about Rs. 80,499.7 crore and proposed to be completed in three years. It is the costliest irrigation project to be taken up by any state in the country. Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP): The KLIP envisages construction of barrage across Godavari River after the confluence by its tributary Pranahita near Madigadda village in Telangana’s Karimnagar district. It is redesigned version of Pranahitha-Chevella Lift Irrigation Scheme, proposed in 2007 by the undivided Andhra Pradesh Government. The KLIP aims to divert 180 TMC of water for providing irrigation facility in 7.38 lakh hectares covering seven districts of Adilabad, Nizamabad, Karimnagar, Medak, Warangal, Nalgonda and Rangareddy districts. It also proposes to stabilise existing command area of 7.62 lakh hectares. It will also provide drinking water facility for Hyderabad and Secunderabad. Under the KLIP, two more barrages between Medigadda and Sripada Yellampally are proposed to be constructed apart from Medigadda barrage. The project will have canal system of about 1,832 km. The 81 km long tunnel built between Yellampally barrage and Mallannasagar reservoir under this project will be the longest tunnel to carry water in Asia after completion.

    13) The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog is planning to set up Methanol Economy Fund worth Rs 4,000-5,000 crore to promote production and use of the clean fuel. The fund will be utilized for generation of cheaper, safer and pollution free methanol fuel by converting high ash content coal and stranded gas assets into methanol. Key Facts: The Niti Aayog has planned has planned to set up production plants. It expects that two plants can be commissioned in the next 3-4 years. The first coal-based methanol plant will be set up in West Bengal by world’s largest coal miner Coal India Ltd (CIL). The government think tank is also proposing road map to achieve its target of increasing penetration of methanol as alternative fuel to petrol and diesel. The roadmap will be applicable from January 2018. Under it, NITI Aayog proposes ramping up facilities to convert Coal, Stranded Gas and Biomass to methanol. NITI Aayog is also working on converting certain diesel-powered rail engines to work on methanol. It also has planned to ensure that boats and ships used in inland waterways initiative are also run on methanol. Methanol: Methanol can be used as energy producing fuel, transportation fuel and cooking fuel. It will help in cutting down India’s oil import bill by estimated 20% over next few years. It is simplest alcohol and does not have carbon-carbon bond and therefore does not emit particulate matter (PM) which causes pollution. It can be easily produced from renewable sources which include forest residue, bio waste generated from houses, agriculture waste, biodegradable waste from other sources. Unlike CNG, using methanol as transportation fuel requires minimal inexpensive alteration in vehicle engines so that they work as methanol engines. China is currently world’s largest producer of methanol. India’s current installed capacity of methanol production is 0.47 million tonne and total domestic production is 0.2 million tonne. The total methanol consumption of country was 1.8 million tonne in 2016.

    14) The Southern Command of Indian Army conducted major army exercise called ‘Hamesha Vijayee’ in deserts of Rajasthan from December 16 to 22, 2017. The purpose of the exercise was to evaluate capability of armed forces to strike deep into enemy territory in an integrated air-land battle. The Southern Command (hearquaters Pune) undertakes such exercises at regular intervals to ensure high degree of battle readiness as well as validation of operational plans using modern weapons and equipment. Key Facts: The ‘Hamesha Vijayee’ exercise was conducted in battle like conditions that aimed at fine tuning surveillance and destruction mechanisms to support precision strikes and manoeuvres by network enabled forces. The exercise showcased high degree of synergy between Indian Army and Air Force along with new generation aviation assets of army which were reviewed to obtain inputs for further refinement of operational procedures. The emphasis of the exercise was on joint operations to test robust sensor to shooter grids by employing vast array of surveillance and air assets networked with land based strategic and tactical vectors. Besides conventional warfare, troops also rehearsed to operate in back drop of chemical and nuclear contingencies.

    15) The Union Ministry of Railways in an eco-friendly measure to reduce power consumption, has planned to make all stations 100% LED lit by March 2018. Under this initiative, the national transporter will provide 100% LED lighting for energy needs in railway staff colonies, stations and platforms. Key Facts: This is huge initiative to provide energy efficient lighting will help in conservation of environment as well. It will help to reduce consumption by about 10% of total energy being utilised for its non-traction uses. It will conserve about 240 million units of electricity and will save Indian Railways about Rs.180 crore annually. Background: Till November 2017, about 3,500 railway stations have already been provided with 100% LED lights. About 20 lakh such lights were installed. The national transporter also aims at providing these lights on all coaches and EMUs (Electric Multiple Units). Moreover, the lights in 1300 non-AC second-class and 3-tier sleeper coaches have been fully converted to LED. The Indian Railways has also issued directives to Zonal Railways to provide LED light fittings to residential quarters.

    16) The traditional festival of Losar was celebrated in Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir to mark the beginning of New Year in this Himalayan region. The 10 day long festival began with illumination of religious and residential places and by visiting monasteries for prayer. Losar festival: The Losar festival marks the beginning of New year in Ladakh and Tibet region and falls in December. Losar is Tibetan word for ‘new year’. It is considered to be the most important festival of the region. It is an important social and religious celebration in Ladakh. Ladakhi Buddhists make religious offering before their deities in the domestic shrines or in the Gompas. A medley of cultural events, ancient rituals and also traditional performances are performed during this festival. There is blaring music events accompanied with dancing and celebration, dinner with relatives. Houses are decorated with good luck signs. Prayer flags are hoisted in important religious places to welcome the new year.

    17) India is planning to host meeting of World Trade Organisation (WTO) member countries in February 2018 to muster support for food security and other issues. It was announced by Commerce and Industry Minister Suresh Prabhu while speaking at event organised by Apparel Export Promotion Council, AEPC in New Delhi. Key Facts: The proposed meeting will be in backdrop of developed nations forming groupings to prepare ground for pushing new issues i.e. investment facilitation, preparing rules for e- commerce, promoting gender equality and reducing subsidy on fisheries with view to curbing illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. India has been keenly pushing agriculture issues at WTO. It has also been raising its voice against bringing new issues, especially those which are not directly linked to trade, on the negotiating table. The meeting will help to multi-lateral process. Background: India had expressed its “deep disappointment” over the US’s refusal to agree on the public stockholding issue at the recently concluded World Trade Organisation (WTO) 11th Ministerial Conference (MC 11) in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The MC 11 had concluded in deadlock without any substantial outcome as consensus eluded the 164-member body. The deadlock came after US and other developed countries blocked permanent solution on government stockholding for food security purposes followed by toughened stand on new issues by India and other developing countries. However, member states did agree to secure deal on elimination of fisheries subsidies by next ministerial in December 2019.

    18) The Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) has granted permission to Indian firm to conduct Phase-I clinical trials for a Zika vaccine. It was announced by Union Minister of State (MoS) for Health and Family Welfare Ashwini Kumar Choubey in Lok Sabha. Zika Virus: Zika Virus is vector borne diseases spread by Aedes egypti mosquito. Infections in pregnant women can cause children to be born with brain deficiencies (microcephaly) and Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS). Microcephaly is condition where a baby’s head is much smaller than expected. The World Health Organisation (WHO) had declared Zika virus as Public Health Emergency of International Concern in February 2016, following an outbreak in Brazil and other Latin American countries and its association with birth defects in newborns. It was revoked in November 2016. Background: The Indian firm had submitted an application along with non-clinical (animal) toxicity data, claiming 100% efficacy in animals to the DCGI to conduct Phase-I clinical trials of its Zika vaccine. Based on evaluation of application, in consultation with the Experts Committee, the DCG (I) has granted permission to conduct the Phase-I clinical trial. The Phase I trials ascertain safety, tolerability and physiological action of a compound inside the body. Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI): DCGI under gamut of Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is responsible for approval of licenses of specified categories of drugs such as blood and blood products, vaccines, IV fluids and sera in India. DCGI lays down standards and quality of manufacturing, selling, import and distribution of drugs in India. It acts as appellate authority in case of any dispute regarding quality of drugs. It prepares and maintains national reference standard. It brings about uniformity in enforcement of Drugs and Cosmetics Act. It trains Drug Analysts deputed by State Drug Control Laboratories and other Institutions.

    19) The first national-level training of trainers programme to sensitise various Central Ministries and Departments on utilisation of Sendai Framework for developing action plans for Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) was held in New Delhi. The was organised by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration with United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction-Global Education and Training Institute (UNISDR-GETI). Key Facts: The first of its kind training programme for Sendai Framework aimed at building capacity of participants to utilise defined indicators to monitor progress of Sendai targets. It also provided training modules to enable them to lead consultations and train others on the monitoring of the Sendai Framework Targets. Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) 2015-30: SFDRR is an international Treaty that was approved by UN member states in March 2015 at Third World Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held in Sendai, Japan. It is voluntary and non-binding treaty which recognizes that UN member State has primary role to reduce disaster risk. It has framework for 15-year (2015 to 2030). It calls for sharing the responsibility with other stakeholders including local government, the private sector and other stakeholders. It is successor of the Hyogo Framework for Action (2005–2015), which had been the most encompassing international accord on disaster risk reduction. It sets of common standards, a comprehensive framework with achievable targets, and a legally-based instrument for disaster risk reduction. It calls for adopting integrated and inclusive institutional measures for preventing vulnerability to disaster, increase preparedness for response and recovery and strengthen resilience. Four specific priorities of Sendai Framework: (i) Understanding disaster risk (ii) Strengthening disaster risk governance to manage disaster risk (iii) Investing in disaster risk reduction for resilience (iv) Enhancing disaster preparedness for effective response and recovery, reconstruction and rehabilitation.

    20) The national drug pricing regulator National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has notified prices of 65 essential formulations, including those used for treatment of diabetes, pain, infections and high blood pressure. The 65 essential formulations fall under scheduled I formulations under Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO), 2013. Key Facts: All manufacturers of scheduled formulations, selling branded or generic or both versions of scheduled formulations (drugs) at price higher than ceiling price as fixed and notified by Government, have to revise prices downward to the ceiling price cap. Moreover, manufacturers of these 65 formulations have to furnish quarterly returns to NPPA through IPDMS (Integrated Pharmaceutical DataBase Management System). Besides, any manufacturer intending to discontinue production of any of 65 drugs has to furnish information to NPPA, with respect to discontinuation of production of drug or its import, at least six months prior to intended date of discontinuation. National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA): NPPA is independent body under Department of Pharmaceuticals under Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. It was set up in 1997. Its mandate is to fix/revise controlled bulk drugs prices and formulations, enforce prices and availability of medicines under DPCO, 2013. NPPA fixes ceiling price of essential medicines of Schedule I under DPCO 2013. The calculation for essential drugs is based on simple average of all medicines in particular therapeutic segment with sales of more than 1%. In respect of medicines that are not under price control, manufacturers are allowed to increase the maximum retail price by 10% annually.

    21) The Union Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship and Maruti Suzuki India Limited have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to support Skill India Mission in automobile industry. The Flexi MoU aims to provide high employment potential trades related to automobile and manufacturing industry to youth under Skill India Mission. Key Facts: As per MoU, Maruti Suzuki in consultation with Director General of Training (DGT), under Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship will develop specific training modules as per need of the automobile industry. The company will conduct courses at pan-India locations leveraging facilities and services available at ITIs, training centers of training partners, regional training centers, vendors and dealers associated with Maruti Suzuki. The courses offered will include Manufacturing, Automotive Body Repair, Automotive Service & Repair and Automotive Paint Repair. Maruti Suzuki will also identify new courses as per needs of automobile value chain. All these courses will be approved by NCVT (National Council for Vocational Training) and it will award certificates to all candidates after completion of the course.

    22) Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) for the first time compiled a list of alien invasive animal species, totalling 157. This number excludes invasive microbe species. This compilation was announced on the sidelines of National Conference on Status of Invasive Alien Species in India organised by the ZSI and Botanical Survey of India (BSI). Alien invasive species: Alien species become ‘invasive’ when they are introduced deliberately or accidentally outside their natural areas, where they out-compete native species and upset ecological balance. Invasive animal species pose a threat to biodiversity and human well-being. They harm agriculture and biodiversity. Common characteristics of invasive species are rapid reproduction and growth, high dispersal ability, ability to survive on various food types and in a wide range of environmental condition and ability to adapt physiologically to new conditions (phenotypic plasticity). Key Facts: Of the total 157 listed species by ZSI, 58 are found on land and in freshwater habitats, while 99 are found in marine ecosystem. The 58 invasive species found on land and in freshwater comprises 19 species of fish, 31 species of arthropods, 3 of molluscs and birds, 1 of reptile and 2 of mammals. Among alien invasive marine species, genus Ascidia accounts for maximum number of species (31), followed by Arthropods (26), Annelids (16), Cnidarian (11), Bryzoans (6), Molluscs (5), Ctenophora (3), and Entoprocta (1). Some of alien species are: Achatina fulica (African apple snail): It is most invasive among all alien fauna in India. It is mollusc and was first reported in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Now it is found all across country and is threatening habitats of several native species. Paracoccus marginatus (Papaya Mealy Bug): It is native to Mexico and Central America. It is believed to have destroyed huge crops of papaya in Assam, West Bengal and Tamil Nadu. Phenacoccus solenopsis (Cotton Mealybug): It is native of North America. It has severely affected cotton crops in the Deccan. Pterygoplichthys pardalis (Amazon sailfin catfish): It is responsible for destroying fish populations in the wetlands of Kolkata.

    23) Andhra Pradesh government has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Alphabet InC.’s X (Google X) to bring Free Space Optical Communication (FSOC) technology to India. The purpose of the FSOC project is to provide high quality & affordable digital services through internet under state government’s Fiber grid project. Key Facts: By using FSOC technology, Andhra Pradesh will be able to use better bandwidth data to every house hold including houses in tribal belt. This association with X labs to implement FSOC in Andhra Pradesh is first in the world to provide wireless internet connection at higher speed of up to 20Gbps and to a distance of up to 20kms. Under this MoU, X Labs will initially supply state government with 2000 FSOC links. X engineers experts on site in state will work with government personnel to identify and select suitable sites for deployment of t FSOC links. It will also set up a local office with help of Andhra Pradesh Government in order to provide real time support for smooth operation of the project. Significance: This significant partnership will offer a major boost to the state’s digital infrastructure and help overcome hindrances in terms of connecting isolated and difficult terrain, forest areas, river crossings, railway crossings, etc. Fiber grid project: Andhra Pradesh Government’s Fiber grid is an ambitious project launched to give affordable high speed internet connection to every household in the state. It aims to connect over 1.45 crore households, 60000 schools, 12198 Panchayats, 10000 government offices, 670 mandal Offices, 96 municipalities, 14 corporations, 6000 Public Health Centres (PHCs) with high speed internet.

    24) According to UN World Migration Report (2018) Indian diaspora is world’s largest, with slightly more than 15.6 million people from India living overseas. The report was released by International Organisation for Migration. The Indian diaspora constitutes 6% of the total number of international migrants (people living outside the country of their birth), which was estimated at 243 million in 2015. Key Facts: According to the report, Mexico has the second largest diaspora after India followed by Russia (3rd), China (4th), Bangladesh (5th) and Pakistan (6th). The Gulf nations house biggest share of the Indian diaspora — nearly 3.5 million or 22% of total Indian diaspora. The global migrants figure has risen by 10% over that recorded in 2010. In other words, out of global population of 7.3 billion, one of every 30 people was migrant in 2015. However, if computed as percentage of world’s population, the growth of diaspora has been largely static, from 3.2% in 2010 to 3.3% in 2015. Notably, people in working age group, between 20 to 64 years, account for nearly 72% i.e. significant chunk of international migrant population. Nearly half of all the international migrants worldwide in 2015 were born in Asia, primarily originating from India, China and other South Asian countries. Since 1970, the US has been the main destination for international migrants. The number of foreign-born people residing in US has almost quadrupled from fewer than 12 million in 1970 to 46.6 million in 2015 of which nearly 2 million are of Indian origin. International Organisation for Migration: IOM is an intergovernmental organization that provides services and advice concerning migration to governments and migrants, including refugees, internally displaced persons and migrant workers. IOM 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 the 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, a further 8 states holding observer status and offices in over 100 countries, It has more than 9,500 staff and 450 offices worldwide.

    25) The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Gabon a “polio-free country”. This comes after lack of new reported or suspected cases in the central African country in recent times. But the UN health agency has recommended taking necessary steps to continue monitoring for possible signs of the disease. Polio: Polio is highly-infectious viral disease caused by the poliovirus. It mainly affects young children and can result in permanent paralysis. The virus is transmitted from person-to-person. It mainly spreads through the faecal-oral route (e.g. contaminated water or food). After entering body, it multiplies in the intestine, from where it can invade the nervous system and can cause paralysis. Initial symptoms of polio include fever, fatigue, headache, vomiting, stiffness in the neck, and pain in the limbs. In some cases, it causes permanent paralysis. There is no cure for polio virus, it can only be prevented by immunization. Global Polio Prevalence: Cases of polio have decreased by 99% since 1988, when it was endemic in 125 countries and 350,000 cases were recorded worldwide. Now the disease is endemic is prevalent only in two South Asian countries Afghanistan and Pakistan, where WHO recorded four cases—two in each country this year. In 2016, there were 37 cases globally.

    26) The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has discovered eighth planet circling Kepler-90, a Sun-like star which is 2545 light-years far from Earth. It was dubbed as Kepler-90i. The eight planet was discovered by Researchers Christopher Shallue and Andrew Vanderburg by applying Google’s machine-learning technology to data collected by NASA’s Kepler Space Telescope. Machine learning: It is an approach towards artificial intelligence (AI). In this case of planetary exploration, machine-learning approach was based on networks of neurons that populate human brain. The computers have learned to identify planets by finding instances of light readings recorded in Kepler data where telescope recorded signals from exoplanets, planets beyond our solar system. . The light readings were tiny changes in brightness captured when a planet passes in front of a star. Key Facts: With eight planets, Kepler-90 system equals our own solar system in terms of number of planets orbiting single star. Astronomers are yet to detect a system with more than eight planets. Kepler-90 star system is like a mini version of our solar system. Kepler-90i is outermost and eighth planet in Kepler-90h system. It is roughly the same distance from its star as Earth is from Sun. It orbits its star once every 14.4 days. It is around 30% larger than Earth. It is thought to have an average surface temperature of 425 degrees Celsius.

    27) Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the 60 MW (megawatt) Tuirial hydropower project in Aizawl, Mizoram. It is first large hydropower central government project to be commissioned in Mizoram. It is expected to boost socio-economic development of the state. It made Mizoram third power-surplus state in North-East after Sikkim and Tripura. Key Facts: The Tuirial hydropower project has been built on Tuirial River, a tributary of Barak River. It was first cleared in 1998, by the then Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. It is central sector project, built at cost of Rs. 1302 crore. It was executed by North Eastern Electric Power Corporation (NEEPCO) under Union Ministry of Power. The hydropower project will produce 251 million units of electrical energy every year. Moreover, water stored in in its reservoir (spread over an area of 45 square km) will provide connectivity to remote villages and will also be used for development of fisheries.

    28) US based private rocket launching company SpaceX for first time ever has successfully launched used Dragon spacecraft with a used Falcon 9 rocket. The 2 pre-flown rocket parts were launched together for the first time as part of resupply mission to International Space Station (ISS). Key Facts: The mission was SpaceX’s 13th of 20 under a $1.6 billion contract with National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). After the launch, SpaceX landed its rocket booster upright on solid ground at Cape Canaveral, Florida. The used Dragon spacecraft was on its way to ISS. It carried 4,800 pounds of supplies for astronauts in ISS. So far, SpaceX has managed to return 20 of its rocket boosters after launch, whether on a floating ocean platform or on land as part of its effort to re-use instead of jettison costly components. SpaceX: SpaceX (Space Exploration Technologies Corporation) is aerospace manufacturer and space transport services company headquartered in California, US. It was founded in 2002 by Internet tycoon Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla Motors and former PayPal entrepreneur with the goal of creating the technologies to reduce space transportation costs and enable colonization of Mars. SpaceX has developed the Falcon 1 and Falcon 9 launch vehicles, both designed to be reusable, thus reducing the cost of lauch. It also has developed Dragon spacecraft to supply cargo to ISS. It is also developing manned version of Dragon. In 2008, SpaceX had created history by launching first privately funded, liquid-propellant rocket Falcon 1 to reach orbit in 2008. It also became first privately funded company to successfully launch, orbit and recover spacecraft (Dragon) in 2010. It was also first private company to send a spacecraft to ISS, in 2012.

    29) The United Nations (UN) International Migrants Day is observed every year on December 18 to rcreate awareness about the protection and safety of the migrants. It also recognize efforts, contributions and rights of workers and members of their families worldwide. The theme for year 2017 is “Safe Migration in a World on the Move”. Protection of refugees and migrants: In September 2016, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had adopted set of commitments during its first ever summit on large movements of refugees and migrants to enhance protection of refugees and migrants. These commitments collectively are known as New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants (NY Declaration). The New York Declaration reaffirms importance of international protection regime and represents commitment by UN member states to strengthen and enhance mechanisms to protect people on move. It paves way for adoption of two new global compacts in 2018: global compact on refugees and global compact for safe, orderly and regular migration. Background: The UNGA had proclaimed 18 December as International Migrants Day after taking into account large and increasing number of migrants in the world in December 2000. This day marks adaptation of international convention on the protection of the rights of migrant workers and members of their families (resolution 45/158) by UNGA on 18 December 1990.

    30) The Karnataka High Court has struck down 2014 amendment rules that mandated pictorial health warnings to cover 85% of tobacco product packaging space, holding that they violated Constitutional norms. However, it made it clear that 40% pictorial health warning rule, which existed prior to amendment rules, will remain in force. The HC passed the order on batch of petitions filed by various tobacco manufacturing companies and others from across country, challenging the 85% pictorial warning rule notified by the Union Health Ministry. Background: The Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Packaging and Labelling) Amendment Rules (COTPA), 2014 came into effect from April 2016. It had increased mandated pictorial health warnings of tobacco product packaging space to 85% from 40%. In May 2016, Supreme Court had transferred all petitions against the 85% rule filed in various high courts to Karnataka High Court and asked it to hear and dispose of them. Petitioners case: The Tobacco Institute of India and others had challenged enforcement of the COTPA which required printing of pictorial health warnings covering 85% of tobacco product packages. The petitioners argued that these rules were impractical and will boost smuggling of imported cigarettes. Tobacco industry Position: There was no evidence to show smoking causes diseases depicted in the extremely gruesome and unreasonable pictures. Global average size for graphic health warnings (GHWs) was only about 30% of the principal display area. Moreover, top three cigarette consuming countries– the US, China and Japan which together account for 51 per cent of global cigarette consumption–have only text based warnings and not adopted GHWs. HC order: Union Health Ministry does not have any jurisdictional power to make such rules. Even if the health ministry enjoyed power to make such rules, they violated constitutional norms as it was an unreasonable restriction on the right to do business guaranteed under Article 19 (1) (g) of the Constitution. From perspective of tobacco growers, such rules violated the Right To Equality under Article 14 of the Constitution because there was no connection between images and the warnings. Rules cannot be made to scare people but to issue notifications.

    31) The Union Cabinet has given its approval for continuation of centrally sponsored scheme of National AYUSH Mission (NAM) from April 2017 to March 2020 with an outlay of Rs. 2400 crore over 3 year period to provide cost effective AYUSH services. National AYUSH Mission (NAM): The NAM was launched in September 2014. It is being implemented by Ministry of AYUSH with the objective of providing cost-effective universal access to AYUSH Services. It aims to address gaps in health services through supporting efforts of State/UTs for providing AYUSH health services and education in country, particularly in vulnerable and far-flung areas. The NAM intends to build on India’s unmatched heritage represented by its ancient systems of medicine like Ayurveda, Yunani, Sidhha, Unani and Homeopathy (AYUSH), which are treasure house of knowledge for preventive and promotive health care. Expected outcomes of NAM: Better access to AYUSH healthcare services through increased number of healthcare facilities offering them and better availability of medicines and trained manpower. Improvement in AYUSH education through well-equipped enhanced number of AYUSH Educational institutions. Improved availability of quality AYUSH drugs by increased number of quality pharmacies and Drug Testing Laboratories coupled with stringent enforcement mechanism. Increased awareness and acceptance of Yoga and Naturopathy as promotive and preventive health-care systems. Meet increasing domestic demand for herbal raw-materials and also to promote export.

    32) The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved Capital Investment Subsidy amounting to Rs.264.67 crore to four industrial units located in North Eastern Region (NER) including Sikkim. It has been approved under Central Capital Investment Subsidy Scheme (CCISS), 2007 of North East Industrial Investment and Promotion Policy (NEIIPP), 2007. The Union Government has been implementing this Scheme to promote industrialization in North Eastern Region. Significance: The grant of subsidy to industrial units will provide incentives to operational units and also boost confidence of existing investors as well as potential investors in 8 states of NER including Sikkim. CCEA has also revised financial powers for approval of capital investment subsidy claims upto Rs.500 crore which will be now approved by the Union Minister of Commerce & Industry. This will facilitate expeditious settlement of claims.

    33) Meghalaya became first state in country to operationalize The Meghalaya Community Participation and Public Services Social Audit Act, 2017, a law that makes social audit of government programmes and schemes a part of government practice. It was launched by Chief Minister Mukul Sangma at a national convention in Shillong. Key Facts: Prior to enacting this law, social audits of government programmes were done at the initiative of civil society organisations. These social audits had no official legal sanction. The first of its kind social audit law in country was passed by Meghalaya state assembly in April 2017 and was followed by pilot social audits for 26 schemes in 18 villages of northeastern state. At present, it is applicable to 11 departments and 21 schemes in Meghalaya. The law mandates appointment of social audit facilitators to conduct social audit directly with people. The facilitator will present findings to Gram Sabha, who will add inputs and result will finally go to autonomous auditors. Significance of social audit law: The law makes social audits part of the system as earlier it was civil society initiative rather than government-mandated. The social audit will make easier to correct course of scheme rolling along. It will give people direct say in how money will be spent and fills information gap for officers as they are directly in touch with ground. Comment: The first of its kind social audit law provides legal framework for allowing citizens’ participation in the planning of development, selection of beneficiaries, concurrent monitoring of programmes, redress of grievances, and audit of works, services, and programmes on an annual basis. Social audit is considered as grassroots method of auditing and stems from people themselves. It will make auditing more meaningful. It is considered as an extension of larger accountability framework. It will further lead to institutionalisation of participatory democratic governance.

    34) The Union Cabinet approved new Central Sector Scheme of North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme” (NESIDS) from 2017-18. It will be 100% funded by Central Government to fill up gaps in creation of infrastructure in specified sectors in North east till March, 2020. Features of NESIDS: The scheme will broadly cover creation of infrastructure under following sectors (i) Physical infrastructure relating to water supply, power, connectivity and specially the projects promoting tourism. (ii) Infrastructure of social sectors of education and health. Benefits of NESIDS: The assets to be created under NESIDS will not only strengthen education and health care facilities in northeast region but will also encourage tourism thereby employment opportunities for local youth. The scheme will act as catalyst in overall development of north east region in the years to come. Non Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) Scheme: The Union Cabinet also approved continuation of existing Non Lapsable Central Pool of Resources (NLCPR) scheme till March, 2020 with funding pattern of 90:10. It will have outlay of Rs.5300.00 crore and will enable completion of ongoing projects. Its broad objective is to ensure speedy development of infrastructure in the North Eastern Region and Sikkim by increasing flow of budgetary financing for specific viable infrastructure projects and schemes in the region. The Ministry for Development of Northeastern Region (DoNER) allocates funds from NLCPR to various Northeast states for infrastructure projects. The ministry allocates funds under two schemes viz. NLCPR (State) and NLCPR-Central for which annual budgetary allocations are provided in normal budgetary process.

    35) The Union Cabinet has decided that Government will borne Merchant Discount Rate (MDR) charges on transactions up to Rs. 2,000 made through debit cards, BHIM UPI or Aadhaar-enabled payment systems (AePS) to promote digital transactions. It will be for two years with effect from 1 January, 2018 by reimbursing the same to the banks. Cost structure of such transactions: A Committee will look into industry cost structure of such transactions which will form basis to determine levels of reimbursement. It will comprise of Secretary Department of Financial Services, Secretary Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeITY) and CEO, National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI). The move will have an impact of Rs 2,512 crore (Rs.1,050 crore in FY 2018-19 and Rs.1,462 crore in FY 2019-20) on the exchequer. Significance: As a result of this approval, consumer and merchant will not suffer any additional burden in form of MDR thereby leading to greater adoption of digital payment modes for such transactions. It will help to move towards less cash economy, since such transactions account for sizeable percentage of transaction volume. What is Merchant Discount Rate (MDR)? MDR is charge or fee imposed on merchant by bank for accepting payment from their customers in credit and debit cards every time card is used for payments (like swiping) in their stores. MDR charges are usually shared in pre-agreed proportion between them and are expressed in percentage of transaction amount. MDR compensates bank issuing card, bank which puts up swiping machine (Point-of-Sale or PoS terminal) and network providers such as Mastercard or Visa for their services. In India, the RBI specifies maximum MDR charges that can be levied on every card transaction. According to recent RBI notification, from January 1 2018, small merchants (turnover upto Rs.20 lakh) will pay a maximum MDR of 0.40% of bill value and larger merchants (turnover greater than Rs.20 lakh) will shell out 0.90%. RBI has also set monetary cap at Rs.200 per bill for small merchants and Rs.1,000 for large ones. As per RBI rules, merchant has to pay MDR out of his own pocket and cannot pass it on to the customer.

    36) The Union Cabinet approved the establishment of International Training Centre for Operational Oceanography (ITCOO), as a Category-2 Centre (C2C) of UNESCO, in Hyderabad, Telangana. The purpose of this agreement is to establish training centre towards development of capacity for countries on Indian Ocean Rim (IOR), African countries bordering Indian and Atlantic Oceans, small island countries under framework of UNESCO. Operational Oceanography: It is an activity of conducting systematic oceanographic studies towards providing information services to various sectors viz. fisherman, shipping, ports, disaster management, environment, coastal states, navy, coast guard, offshore industries for conducting their day-to- day operations. C2C of UNESCO at ITCOO: The Centre will provide assistance in areas of capacity building and training, knowledge sharing and exchange of information, and hence could represent valuable resource for UNESCO and its Intergovernmental Oceanography Commission (IOC) by enhancing impact and visibility of UNESCO’s action. Significance: The centre will provide opportunity for India to emerge as leading country in Indian Ocean. It will forge cooperation and improve engagement between India and counties of IOR, including South Asian and African states bordering Indian Ocean. The centre will respond to worldwide increasing need to build technical and management capacity to address marine and coastal sustainability issues and prepare region for and react efficiently to marine natural hazards. It will contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goal-14 related to building marine scientific research capacity in geographical area. It will also fulfill commitments to support Least Developed Countries (LDCs), Small Island Developing States.

    37) The National Green Tribunal (NGT) imposed complete blanket ban on use, sale, purchase and storage of plastic items such as carry bags, plates and spoons in towns of Haridwar and Rishikesh till upper areas of Uttarkashi along the Ganga River in Uttarakhand. The move was taken to tackle and prevent pollution of the Ganga. The green panel order comes while it was hearing a plea of environmentalist MC Mehta. Key Facts: The NGT also imposed Rs 5,000 fine on those violating order and also held that action will be taken against erring officials too. It passed the direction after noting that despite its earlier order, plastic was being used in these areas causing pollution to the hoy river. National Green Tribunal (NGT): NGT was established in 2010 under National Green Tribunal Act, 2010 for effective and expeditious disposal of cases relating to environmental protection and conservation of forests and other natural resources. It specialises in adjudicating on matters relating to environment, forests and harm to people or property due to neglect of environmental obligations of infrastructure projects. NGT is guided by principles of natural justice and not bound by procedure laid down under Code of Civil Procedure (CrCP), 1908. It is mandated to make and endeavour for disposal of applications or appeals finally within 6 months of filing. New Delhi is Principal Place of Sitting NGT. Bhopal, Pune, Kolkata and Chennai are other regional sitting of Tribunal.

    38) The Union Cabinet has approved National Medical Commission Bill, 2017. It will replace the Medical Council, 1956 Act and enable a forward movement in medical education reform. The bill is aims at bringing reforms in medical education sector of the country which has been under scrutiny for corruption and unethical practices. Key Features of Bill: The bill replaces existing apex medical education regulator Medical Council of India (MCI) with National Medical Council (NMC), a new body to ensure transparency. It empowers NMC to lay down policies for maintaining high quality and high standards in medical education and make necessary regulations in this behalf and ensure coordination among Autonomous Boards. It provides for constitution of four autonomous boards entrusted with conducting undergraduate and postgraduate education, assessment and accreditation of medical institutions and registration of practitioners under NMC. The commission will have 25-members including Chairman and Member Secretary. It will have 12 ex-officio members and 11-part-time members of which five will be doctors elected to the commission. The selected members will be picked by a search committee headed by Cabinet Secretary. The bill proposes a common entrance exam and national licentiate examination which every candidate, who completes five years of MMBS course need to clear to become medical practitioner or get entry into post-graduation studies. This examination will also bring those students who do medical education from abroad at par with those who graduate from Indian institutions. Significance: The bill aims to move towards outcome-based regulation of medical education rather than process oriented. It will ensure proper separation of functions within regulator by having autonomous boards, create accountable and transparent procedures for maintaining standards in Medical Education.

    39) The eight edition of India, Maldives bilateral military exercise EKUVERIN 2017 was held in India in Belagavi, Karnataka. The aim of the exercise was to conduct military training between armies of both countries with emphasis on counter insurgency, counter terrorism operations (CICT Ops). Key Facts: The focus of exercise was to acquaint both armies with each other’s operating procedures in backdrop of CICT Ops in urban or semi-urban environment under United Nations charter. It was aimed at enhancing interoperability between two armies as contingents hone their tactical and technical skills. The exercise provided opportunity for two armies to activate Joint Operations Centre at Belagavi. In this edition of exercise, Maldivian team was represented by two officers and 43 other ranks, while Indian Army was represented by three officers, three Junior Commissioned Officers and 39 other ranks belonging to Gorkha Rifles Battalion (Sirmoor Rifles). Background: Indian Army and Maldives National Defence Force have been holding Exercise Ekuverin (meaning ‘friends’ in the Maldivian language) since 2009 on alternate years in their countries. The last one was held at Kaddhoo in the Lammu Atol of Maldives. It had conducted military training between armies of both countries with emphasis on amphibious & CICT Ops.

    40) National Workshop on Role of Sakhi One Stop Centres (OSCs) in Strengthening Multi Sectoral Response to Violence is was held in New Delhi. It was organized by the Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) and was inaugurated by WCD Minister Maneka Sanjay Gandhi. Key Facts: Around 400 Sakhi- One Stop Centre Functionaries and nodal officials from State Department of Women and Child Development from 33 States/UTs across the country had participated in workshop. It provided common platform to understand, discuss and deliberate on strengthening multisector response to address violence against women through Sakhi One Stop Centres across country. Sakhi OSC Scheme: The Sakhi OSC scheme is being implemented by WCD Ministry since April 1, 2015. It aims to facilitate access to integrated range of services including medical aid, police assistance, legal aid and case management, psychosocial counselling and temporary support services to women affected by violence. The WCD ministry had approved the scheme for setting up Sakhi One Stop Centres to support battered women on March 2015. Under the scheme, it has been envisaged that Sakhi OSCs will be set up across the country in a phased manner. In the first phase, one centre was sanctioned per state/UT. Further, 150 additional centres were taken up in second phase. 50 additional OSCs were recently approved by WCD Ministry. Currently, 168 Sakhi OSCs are operational in 32 States/UTs. So far, around 70,000 cases have been reported at these centres.

    41) The National Institute of Transforming India (NITI) Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission launched the Atal Tinkering Lab’s Community Day in New Delhi. The day marks Community Drive Initiative in which 25 young Mentors engaged with more than 200 students who are not enrolled in formal education system. These mentors will visit four locations in New Delhi to conduct brief sessions with children from various NGOs, on how innovations can help resolve problems in the communities. Atal Tinkering Lab Community Drive Initiative: The initiative is aimed at maximizing impact of Atal Tinkering Labs by extending innovation to children in community who do not have access to formal educational institutions. Its purpose is to provide these children with same educational tools as the students in Atal Tinkering Labs to enable them to become problem solvers. The NGOs participating in it include organizations working with disabled children, street and working children, and girls from the weaker sections of society. Atal Innovation Mission: NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission is among one of flagship programs of Government to promote innovation and entrepreneurship in country and to set up Atal Tinkering Labs across the country. It aims to give substantial boost to the innovation ecosystem and to catalyze the entrepreneurial spirit in the country. It prime objective is to provide an innovation promotion platform involving academics, researchers and entrepreneurs, drawing upon national and international experiences to foster a culture of innovation in India. It will also promote a network of world-class innovation hubs, Start-up businesses and other selfemployment activities, particularly in technology driven areas. NITI Aayog: NITI Aayog is the premier policy ‘Think Tank’ of the Union Government, providing both directional and policy inputs. It is essentially an advisory body that seeks to provide critical directional and strategic inputs across spectrum of key elements of policy to the centre.

    42) The Union Government is planning to club phase I and phase II of its ambitious Ken-Betwa inter linking river (ILR) project. The phases will be clubbed after Madhya Pradesh, one of the two beneficiary states (Uttar Pradesh in another), demanded so. It will result in revision of project’s cost. The costs for first phase was estimated at Rs. 18,000 crore and second phase was Rs. 8000 crore. Background: The Centre’s ambitious Ken-Betwa river linking project, which had received almost all major environmental clearances had hit roadblock earlier this year after Madhya Pradesh government allegedly objected to it. The state government had allegedly warned that first phase of project would not be allowed to take off if as it has not reworked to incorporate three other smaller projects – Bina complex, Lower Orr dam and Kotha barrage projects – in initial phase. These three projects were to be implemented in the second phase which aimed to connect the rivers Ken in Madhya Pradesh and Betwa in Uttar Pradesh. Clubbed Phases: The Union Government has sorted out issues raised by Madhya Pradesh. These works will be now carried out in one phase. The cost will accordingly have to be revised. Now the whole project may be executed based on a 90:10 funding pattern between Centre and the states respectively. Ken-Betwa ILR project: The Ken-Betwa ILR project aims to transfer surplus water from the Ken River to the Betwa basin through concrete canal to irrigate India’s worst drought-prone Bundelkhand region. On completion, the multipurpose project will benefit Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh in terms of meeting irrigation, drinking water and electricity needs of people across 6 districts in the two states. The project comprises two powerhouse of 2×30 MW and 3×6 MW each, two tunnels of 1.9 km long upper level, 1.1 km long tunnel lower level and 221 km long Ken-Betwa link canal passing through Jhansi, Banda and Mahoba districts of Uttar Pradesh and Chhatarpur, Panna and Tikamgarh districts of Madhya Pradesh.

    43) The 4th India-Australia-Japan Trilateral Dialogue was hosted by India in New Delhi. It was hosted by India’s Foreign Secretary Dr. S. Jaishankar, Australia’s Secretary of Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade Frances Adamson and Japan’s Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Shinsuke J. Sugiyama. Key Highlights: The three sides highlighted the growing convergence of their respective countries’ interests in Indo-Pacific region. They underscored their shared commitment to peace, democracy, economic growth and rules-based order in region. They also underscored their support for ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) centrality in political and security architecture of Indo-Pacific region. The three sides also stressed need for greater collaboration on maritime security and domain awareness and disaster response capabilities. They also renewed their resolve to fight scourge of terrorism in all its forms and manifestations and stressed need for enhanced cooperation on counterterrorism. They also deliberated on strengthening regional connectivity as well. They welcomed regular meetings of this important dialogue mechanism. The Japanese Vice Minister has proposed to host the next round of the dialogue in Tokyo, capital city of Japan.

    44) Scientists from Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), US have found a novel way to induce plants to give off dim light by embedding specialised nanoparticles into their leaves. The purpose of this experiment was to make plant function as a desk lamp, powered by the energy metabolism of the plant itself and not by electricity connection. Key Facts: To create the glowing plants, scientists has used to luciferase, an enzyme that gives fireflies their glow. Luciferase acts on molecule called luciferin, causing it to emit light. Moreover, they had used another molecule called co-enzyme A which helps process along by removing reaction by-product that can inhibit luciferase activity. They had packaged each of these three components into silica nanoparticle carrier about 10 nanometres in diameter to carry luciferase. They also used slightly larger particles of the polymers PLGA and chitosan to carry luciferin and coenzyme A, respectively. To get the nanoparticles particles into plant leaves, scientists first had suspended particles in solution. Then plants were immersed in solution and later exposed to high pressure. It allowed particles to enter leaves through tiny pores called stomata. Particles releasing luciferin and coenzyme A were designed to accumulate in extracellular space of mesophyll, an inner layer of leaf, while smaller particles carrying luciferase enter cells that make up mesophyll. The PLGA particles gradually released luciferin in solution, which then entered plant cells, where luciferase performs chemical reaction that makes luciferin glow. In this experiment, plants glowed for about 45 minutes. Significance: It is considered as major step towards using plants to illuminate the workspace. This technology can be used to provide low-intensity indoor lighting, or to transform trees into self-powered street lights.

    45) India and Morocco signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for enhanced cooperation in health sector. Through this framework MoU, both the countries can work together in identified areas of cooperation as both countries have much to offer to each other in the field of health. Main areas of cooperation under MoU: Communicable Diseases. Maternal, child and neonatal health. Hospital twinning for exchange of good practices. Drug Regulation and Pharmaceutical quality control. Training in administration and management of health services and Hospitals. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including child cardiovascular diseases and cancer; Besides, another MoU was signed between Jawaharlal Institute of Post Graduate Medical Education and Research (JIPMER), Puducherry and Marrakech Mohamed VI University Hospital, Morocco. Under it, both Institutes agreed to collaborate in field of telemedicine. The focus areas under it are Health Education, Tele-Health Care, technical support in controlling epidemics and support in rendering second opinion on various complicated cases.

    46) India and Morocco have signed four agreements for cooperation in Water Resources, Road and Marine Sectors. They were signed after Morocco’s Minister for Equipment, Transport, Logistics and Water meet Nitin Gadkari, Minister of Road Transport & Highways, Shipping in New Delhi. Both sides discussed matters relating to India-Morocco bilateral cooperation in road transport, water resources and the marine sector. MoUs /Agreements signed are: MoU on cooperation in the field of Water Resources; Agreement to establish cooperation between Indian Maritime University (IMU) and Higher Institute of Maritime Studies (ISEM) of Morocco. Framework Agreement for Cooperation in Training between National Ports Agency (NPA) of Morocco and Indian Maritime University (IMU). Cooperation Framework Agreement between Institute of Training in Engines and Road Maintenance of Morocco (IFEER) and Indian Academy of Highway Engineers (IAHE).

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