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  • WBCS Current Affairs 29th October  to 3rd November 2017
    Posted on October 29th, 2017 in Current Affairs, Weekly Current Affairs
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    WBCS Current Affairs 29th October to 3rd November 2017

    The Importance of Current Affairs in W.B.C.S examinations is immense.Success inW.B.C.S  Prelims and W.B.C.S Mains Exam is mainly subjected to how well an aspirant is aware of the important current affairs. Preparation of current affairs for W.B.C.S is the key to unlock the exam.Continue  Reading WBCS Current Affairs 29th October to 3rd November 2017.
    1) The CCEA has approved continuation of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) as Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana- Remunerative Approaches for Agriculture and Allied sector Rejuvenation (RKVY-RAFTAAR) for three years i.e. 2017-18 to 2019-20. The RKVY-RAFTAAR Scheme’s objective is to make farming remunerative economic activity by strengthening farmer’s effort, risk mitigation and promoting agri¬business entrepreneurship. Key Features of RKVY-RAFTAAR: The scheme aims to fast-track agriculture development by emphasising on development of agriculture infrastructure, specifically post-harvest infrastructure and assets, promotion of value addition linked agri-business models. The financial allocation of scheme is Rs. 15,722 crore and it will be provided to states as 60:40 grants between Centre and States (90:10 for North Eastern States and Himalayan States). Under it, 50% of annual outlay will be provided for setting up infrastructure and assets, 30% for value-addition linked production projects and 20% of outlay will be flexi-funds for supporting any project as per the local needs. Moreover, about 20% of the annual outlay will be provided for implementing special sub-schemes of national priorities under RKVY-RAFTAAR. Also, 10% of annual outlay will be provided for innovation and agri-entrepreneur development through creating end-to-end solution, skill development and financial support for setting up the agri-enterprise. Besides, funding of special sub-schemes of national priorities will get 20% of annual outlay. The sub-schemes includes national priorities such Bringing Green Revolution to Eastern India (BGREI), Crop Diversification Program (CDP), Reclamation of Problem Soil (RPS), Foot & Mouth Disease – Control Program (FMD-CP), Saffron Mission, Accelerated Fodder Development Programme (AFDP). The scheme will incentivize states to enhance more allocation to Agriculture and Allied Sectors. It continuation will therefore keep momentum of agriculture and allied sector growth. It will strengthen farmer’s efforts through creation of agriculture infrastructure that will help in supply of quality inputs, market facilities etc. It will further promote agri-entrepreneurship and support business models that will maximize returns to farmers. Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY): RKVY was launched during 2007-08 to achieve 4% annual growth in agricultural sector by ensuring holistic development. The scheme was under implementation from XI Five Year Plan. It has provided considerable flexibility and autonomy to states in planning and executing programmes for incentivizing investment in agriculture and allied sectors. ‎It also has enabled adoption of national priorities without affecting autonomy and flexibility of states. Under it, ‎States have initiated process of decentralized planning for agriculture and allied sectors through preparation of District Agriculture Plans (DAPs) and State Agriculture Plan (SAP) which was based on agro-climatic conditions and ‎availability of appropriate technology and natural resources. DAPs and SAPs ensured accommodation of local needs, cropping pattern, priorities etc.
    2) The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved revision in price of ethanol under Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme for supply to Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). The revised price was fixed at Rs. 40.85 per litre under EBP and will be applicable for forthcoming sugar season 2017-18. GST and transportation charges will be payable additionally. Key Facts: This price was re-examined in context of firming of sugar prices and falling crude prices and consequent under-recoveries of OMCs. The approval will facilitate continued policy of Government in providing price stability and remunerative prices for ethanol suppliers. It will also help in reducing dependency on crude oil imports, saving in foreign exchange and benefits to environment. Background: The Union Government in December, 2014 had decided to administer price of ethanol under EBP Programme in order to augment supply of ethanol. In pursuance of this, Government had fixed delivered price of ethanol during ethanol supply year 2014-15 & 2015-16 in range of Rs.48.50 to Rs.49.50 per litre including taxes and transportation charges. It has helped to significantly improve supply of ethanol from 38 crore litres during ethanol supply year 2013-14 to 111 crore litres during 2015-16. Ethanol Blending: It is process of mixing petrol with ethanol. The mixture is called as Ethanol Fuel/Gasohol which is considered as quasi-renewable energy. Ethanol is biofuel derived from Sugarcane molasses (by-product in the conversion of sugarcane to sugar), corn, sorghum etc. In India, practice of blending ethanol was started in 2001. It was first time mentioned in the Auto fuel policy of 2003. Later, National Policy on Bio-fuels, 2009 made mandatory for oil companies to sell petrol blended with at least 5% of ethanol. Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme: It was launched by Government in 2003 to promote the use of alternative and environment friendly fuels. It has been extended to notified 21 States and 4 UTs. This intervention aims to reduce import dependency for energy requirements and environment friendly measure to reduce vehicular pollution.
    3) The Union Cabinet approved signing and ratifying agreement between India and Armenia on cooperation and mutual assistance in customs matters. The agreement will be signed by two countries after it is approved by respective Governments. Key Facts: The agreement will provide legal framework for sharing of information and intelligence between Customs authorities of two countries. It will also help in proper application of Customs laws, prevention and investigation of Customs offences and facilitation of legitimate trade. The Agreement will help in availability of relevant information for prevention and investigation of Customs offences. It is also expected to facilitate trade and ensure efficient clearance of goods traded between countries. It will enter into force on first day of second month after Contracting Parties notify each other through diplomatic channels after fulfilling necessary national legal requirements for entry into force. The Agreement takes care of Indian Customs’ concerns and requirements, particularly in area of exchange of information on correctness of Customs value declared and authenticity of certificates of origin of the goods traded between the two countries.4) Researchers from University of British Columbia (UBC) in Canada have developed earthquake-proof fibre-reinforced concrete that can dramatically enhance the earthquake resistance of seismically vulnerable structures. Key Facts: The cement material is engineered at molecular scale to be strong, malleable, and ductile similar to steel. It is capable of dramatically enhancing earthquake resistance of seismically vulnerable structure when applied as a thin coating on surfaces. The material is made of eco-friendly ductile cementitious composite (EDCC) which combines cement with polymer-based fibres, flyash and other industrial additives, making it highly sustainable. It was subjected earthquake intensities as high as magnitude 9.09.1 earthquake during simulations. In India, EDCC will be retrofitted in school at Roorkee in Uttarakhand, a highly seismic area for research purpose.5) The Joint Indo-Russia Tri-Services Exercise INDRA-2017 was successfully conducted from 19 to 29 October 2017 at Vladivostok, Russia. It was India’s first joint tri-services exercise and also first between Russia and India. It was also first time Russia has hosted Tri-Services Exercise on its soil. The theme of INDRA-2017 Exercise was ‘Preparation and Conduct of Operations by Joint Force for Suppression of International Terror Activity at the request of a host country under UN mandate’. Key Facts: More than 900 soldiers, sailors and air warriors from Indian Army, Navy and Air Force participated in exercise along with over 1000 personnel from Russian Defence Forces. The exercise was conducted in Sergeevsky Combined Arms Training Range, Cape Klerk Training Area and in waters of Sea of Japan. The scope of 11-day exercise included professional interactions, establishment of joint command and control structures between Indian and Russian forces and elimination of terrorist threat in multinational environment under UN mandate. The army exercise tasks involved check point defence and humanitarian convoy escort in back drop of threat from armed groups. Naval tasks comprised Visit, Board, Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations besides Joint Air Defence, Force Protection Measures and Anti-mining Operations. The Air Forces of both countries, combined their air crews for Combat Air Patrols, Reconnaissance Missions, Formation Flying and slithering operations by utilising Russian fighters, transport aircraft and helicopters. Background: The bilateral INDRA exercise was annually conducted by India and Russia since 2003. The name of the exercise INDRA has been derived from INDia and RussiA. So far, INDRA exercises were undertaken between respective Armies, Navies and Air Forces, separately engaged with each other without concurrent participation from other Services. Since 2003, 17 such service specific exercises with Russian defence forces have been conducted.6) The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved implementation of Special Banking Arrangement (SBA) for Rs. 10,000 crore for payment of outstanding claims on account of fertilizer subsidy in year 2016-17. CCEA chaired by Prime Minster Narendra Modi also approved that in future, Department of Fertilizers will avail SBA with concurrence of Department of Expenditure, Ministry of Finance. Key Facts: Government is making available fertilizers, namely 21 grades of P&K fertilizers and Urea to farmers at subsidized prices through fertilizer manufacturers and importers. For making funds available to fertilizer companies against their subsidy claims, Union Ministry of Finance had approved SBA for amount of Rs. 10,000 crore with Government interest liability limited to G-Sec rate. Accordingly, SBA was worked out with State Bank of India (SBI) for an amount of Rs. 10,000 crore to meet outstanding subsidy claims of fertilizer companies. The loan together with Government interest thereon has been repaid from BE 2017-18 within the sanctioned budget. Background: Under the SBA, total loan of Rs. 9,969 crore was raised by Government for settlement of outstanding subsidy bills with SBI. The loan amount along with interest liability on part of Government amounting to Rs. 80.90 crore were paid to SBI. SBA for amount of Rs. 10,000 crore for year 2016-17 already has been implemented and operationalised to overcome liquidity problems of fertilizer companies.7) The Union Cabinet has approved introduction of National Council for Teacher Education (Amendment) Bill, 2017 in Parliament to amend National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) Act, 1993. The amendment seeks to grant retrospective recognition to Central/State/Universities who are found to be conducting teacher education courses without NCTE permission till academic year 2017-2018. Key Facts: The amendment will make students studying in these Institutions/Universities or those who have already passed out from here eligible for employment as teacher. The retrospective recognition is onetime measure to ensure that future of these students passed out and studying in these institutions are not jeopardized. Henceforth, all institutions running teacher education courses such as B.Ed and D.El.Ed have to obtain recognition from NCTE under section 14 of NCTE Act. Further, courses of such recognised institutions/universities must be permitted under section 15 of NCTE Act. Background: The NCTE Act, 1993 enacted by Parliament aims to achieve planned and coordinated development of teacher education system, regulation and ensure proper maintenance of norms and standards in said system. It establishes NCTE to achieve these objectives. It has separate provisions for recognising teacher education courses and to lay down guidelines for compliance by recognized Institutions/Universities.  

    8) President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated Global Clubfoot Conference organised by CURE India in partnership with Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in New Delhi. 500 doctors from20 countries and 29 Indian states are attending the conference. Clubfoot: It is one of the most common orthopaedic birth defects where one or both feet are rotated inwards and downwards. It describes range of foot abnormalities usually present at birth in which your baby’s foot is twisted out of shape or position. In clubfoot, tissues connecting muscles to the bone (tendons) are shorter than usual. Causes: They are unknown (idiopathic), but it may be combination of genetics and environment. Symptoms of Clubfoot: Top of the foot is usually twisted downward and inward, increasing arch and turning heel inward. The foot may be turned so severely that it actually looks as if it’s upside down. The affected foot may be up to 1/2 inch (about 1cm) shorter than other foot. The calf muscles in affected leg are usually underdeveloped. Threats: It causes foot deformity, abnormality walking, callus, knock knees, or shortened legs. It can cause permanent disability if not treated early. This affects the child’s mobility and confidence. It occurs in about one in 1,000 newborns. In India, burden of disability affects more than 10 million people. Treatment: Ponseti method is initially used which involves moving foot into an improved position followed by casting, which is repeated at weekly intervals.Once the inward bending is improved, the Achilles tendon is often cut and braces are worn until age of four. Initially brace is worn nearly continuously and then just at night. In about 20% of cases further surgery is required.

    9) The capital market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) is planning to bring Initial Coin Offerings (ICO) under its existing legal framework. In recent times, popularity of crypto currencies has increased rapidly and number of entities looking at raising funds through ICO. Background: Crypto currencies like bitcoin, ethereum and such offerings have been under government radar for long time. Even discussions were held between various regulatory bodies, including SEBI and Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to regulate crypto currencies. The RBI is of the view that these instruments are securities and so SEBI should be the regulating body. But these crypto-currencies are neither ‘commodities derivatives’ nor ‘securities’ under Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956. Initial Coin Offering (ICO): ICO is an unregulated means of crowd funding for project via use of cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Monero, DASH, Litecoin, Z-cash etc. It is like an equity initial public offer (IPO) where right of ownership or royalties of project is offered to investors in form of digital coins in exchange for legal tender or other cryptocurrencies. ICO is mostly used to raise funds by start-up firms dealing in block chain technology and virtual currencies. Unlike an IPO, which is governed by SEBI regulations, there is no regulator for this kind of crowd sourcing in India. China’s Central Bank recently had banned ICO as dubbed it as an illegal public finance mechanism used for issue of securities and money laundering. Crypto Currencies: Crypto Currencies or Virtual Currencies are type of unregulated digital money. They are mainly peer-to-peer system, and transacted between users directly, without an intermediary. These transactions are verified by network nodes and recorded in public distributed ledger called blockchain. They are neither issued by central bank/public authority, nor is necessarily attached to fiat currency, but is used and accepted among the members of a specific virtual community. They are being transferred, stored or traded electronically.

    10) The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman accorded acceptance of necessity (AoN) for the procurement 111 naval utility helicopters (NUHs) worth Rs 21,738 crore for Indian Navy. DAC is Defence Ministry’s highest decision-making body on procurement. Approval Process: AoN is first step of procurement of an defence equipment. After DAC gives AoN, request for proposal can be issued to firms, seeking their responses with technical and commercial bids. Before this step, Indian Navy had issued a request for information (RFI) for procurement of 111 NUHs. Key Facts: It is first proposal under strategic partnership model to get approval which is considered as a major boost to defence manufacturing in country. Under strategic partnership model, foreign Original equipment manufacturer (OEM) ties up with a domestic strategic partner to manufacture weapon systems. As part of proposal, 16 naval utility helicopters (NUHs) will be procured in fly away state from selected foreign OEM and remaining 95 will be made by Indian strategic partner in India. Firms, including Sikorsky, Bell and Airbus are likely contenders for this project and will have to respond to RFI with information on capabilities they have to manufacture these helicopters. According to RFI issued by Indian Navy, these NUHs should be able to perform roles including search and rescue, anti-piracy, disaster relief, surveillance and medical evacuation. This will involve ferrying troops and supplies to warships. The helicopters will also be submarine hunters and also have torpedoes. Active towed array sonar systems: DAC has also accorded AoN for procurement of 9 active towed array sonar systems (advanced) for Indian Navy at an estimated cost of Rs 450 crore. This sonar system will be fitted on modern naval vessels and will enhance their submarine detection capabilities. This is especially important in light of China planning to increase its submarine fleet in the coming years and its growing naval presence in the Indian Ocean.

    11) In World Bank’s recently released Doing Business (DB) Report 2018 titled as ‘Doing Business 2018: Reforming to Create Jobs’, India leapfrogged to 100th among 190 countries. India has jumped over 30 ranks to attain 100th spot from 130th position in 2017 Ease of Doing Business Index. Its score also increased from 56.05 in 2017 to 60.76 in Doing Business 2018. Ease of Doing Business Index: The Ease of Doing Business Index assesses 190 economies and covers 10 indicators which span the lifecycle of a business. These 10 indicators are: Starting a business, Dealing with construction permits, Getting electricity, Registering property, Getting credit, Protecting minority investors, Paying taxes, Trading across borders, Enforcing contracts and Resolving insolvency. Each one of these indicators carry equal weightage. India’s Performance: It saw the improvement in 6 out of 10 indicators. They are Resolving Insolvency, Paying Taxes, Getting Credit, Enforcing Contracts, Protecting Minority Investors and Construction Permits. India ranked 103rd in Resolving Insolvency indicator, 119th in Paying Taxes, 29th in Getting Credit, 164th in Enforcing Contracts, 4th in Protecting Minority Investors and 181st in Construction Permits. Key Highlights of Report: India figures among top 10 countries Brunei Darussalam, Thailand, Malawi, Kosovo, Uzbekistan, Zambia, Nigeria, Djibouti and El Salvador that have marked an improvement this year. These 10 top improvers implemented 53 regulatory reforms making it easier for them to do business. Europe and Central Asia regions continue to have highest share of economies implementing at least one reform as 76% of economies in the region implemented at least one business regulatory reform. India is only country in South Asia and BRICS economies to feature among most improved economies of the DB Report this year. In South Asia region, India was top improver, but was ranked below Bhutan (75). Nepal (105), Sri Lanka (111), Maldives (136), Pakistan (147), Bangladesh (177) and Afghanistan (183) were ranked below India.

    12) According to index of eight core industries released by the Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Core sector growth has hit six-month high in September 2017. The core industries comprising of coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertilisers, steel, cement, and electricity was up 5.2% in September 2017 compared with 4.4% in August 2017 and 5.3% in September 2016. Besides, August 2017 core sector growth was revised downwards from 4.9%. Sector wise growth: Production of coal, natural gas and refinery products rose 10.6%, 6.3% and 8.1%, respectively in September 2017. Electricity generation rose by 5.2%, and steel production by 3.7%. Crude output and cement production was stagnant at 0.1% each, while fertilisers output contracted 7.7%. Strong core sector growth suggests higher industrial output in September 2017. It shows that the country’s economy has picked up pace after disappointing first quarter. Core Industry sector: Core industry can be defined as the main industry. In most countries, there is a particular industry that seems to be the backbone of all other industries and it qualifies to be the core industry. In India, there are eight core sectors comprising of coal, crude oil, natural gas, refinery products, fertilisers, steel, cement and electricity. The electricity has the maximum weight of 10.32% followed by Steel (6.68%), Petroleum Refinery (5.94%), Crude Oil production (5.22 %), Coal production (4.38 %), Cement (2.41%), Natural Gas production (1.71 %) and Fertilizer production (1.25%). These eight Core Industries comprise nearly 38% of the weight of items included in the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), which measures factory output.

    13) October 31: World Cities Day: The United Nations’s World Cities Day (WCD) is observed every year on October 31 to promote international community’s interest in global urbanization, push forward cooperation among countries in meeting opportunities and addressing challenges of urbanization, and contributing to sustainable urban development around the world. The theme selected for this year is “Innovative Governance, Open Cities”. It highlights important role of urbanization as a source of global development and social inclusion. The general theme of day is ‘Better City, Better Life’. Y.C. Modi is new NIA Director-General: Senior IPS officer Yogesh Chander Modi took over as new Director-General of National Investigation Agency (NIA), country’s premier anti-terror organisation. He succeeds Sharad Kumar. Mr Modi is a 1984-batch IPS officer of Assam-Meghalaya cadre. Earlier he had worked with Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) for 10 years in two stints (2002-2010 and 2015-2017) where he handled special crime and economic offences besides anti-corruption cases. He has also worked with Cabinet Secretariat between 1991 and 2002 which included a foreign posting. Neelamani N. Raju becomes Karnataka’s first woman police chief: Neelmani N. Raju was appointed as Karnataka’s first woman Director General and Inspector General of Police (DG and IGP). She will take over from Rupak Kumar Dutta, who is retiring from service. She is a 1983-batch IPS officer. She is second woman IPS officer to join the Karnataka cadre. She is native of Uttar Pradesh. She had served in Karnataka for 10 years before going on deputation to the Intelligence Bureau in 1993. She had served in IB for 23 years and in 2016, after reachingpost of joint director in IB, she returned to her home cadre as a DGP rank officer. Heena Sidhu wins 10m air pistol gold medal at the Commonwealth Shooting Championships: Heena Sidhu won 10-metre air pistol gold medal at Commonwealth Shooting Championships in Brisbane, Australia. Sidhu shot combined score of 626.2 to claim the top honours. This was Sidhu’s second successive international gold after she along with Jitu Rai, had won 10-metre air pistol mixed team event in ISSF World Cup Finals in Delhi held in October 2017. Among other Indians, Deepak Kumar won a bronze medal in the 10-metre air rifle event. London Olympic bronze-medallist Gagan Narang finished fourth, while Ravikumar ended fifth.

    14) The Union Government has constituted Alternative Mechanism Panel headed by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley to oversee merger proposals of public sector banks (PSBs). The other members of the panel include Railway and Coal Minister Piyush Goyal and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman. Key Facts: This alternative mechanism has been set up by the government to fast-track consolidation among public sector banks to create strong lenders. The mechanism will oversee the proposals coming from boards of PSBs for consolidation. The decision comes after government had announced Rs. 2.11 trillion bank recapitalisation plan for public sector banks weighed down by bad loans, seeking to stimulate flow of credit to spur private investment. It was also announced that recapitalisation plan will be accompanied by series of banking reforms over next few months. The constitution of an Alternative Mechanism is move in that direction. The Union cabinet in August 2017 had decided to set up Alternative Mechanism to fast-track PSU bank consolidation. More about alternative mechanism (fig). Purpose of PSBs consolidation: The move to create large banks through consolidating PSBs aims at meeting credit needs of growing Indian economy and building capacity in PSB space to raise resources without dependence on the state exchequer. The banking entities formed after merging PSU banks will be able to absorb shocks. Background: The idea of bank mergers was around since 1991, when former Reserve Bank of India (RBI) governor M. Narasimham had recommended the government merge banks into three-tiered structure, with three large banks with an international presence at top. In 2014, PJ Nayak Committee also had suggested that government either merge or privatize state-owned banks. Significance of PSBs consolidation: Reduce their dependence on government for capital. Open up more capital generation avenues, both internally and from market, for the merged entity. From a government point of view, it will increase stream of dividends which forms part of their non-tax revenue. Increase the role of internal and market resources and thus reduce dependence of merged bank on government for the future capital infusion. It will lead to greater concentration of payment and settlement flows as there will be fewer parties in the financial sector. Operational risks could increase post-merger as size of operations grows and distance between management and operational personnel is greater as the administrative systems become more complex. It will help to deal better with their credit portfolio, including stressed assets. Consolidation will also prevent multiplicity of resources being spent in t same area and strengthens banks to deal with shocks.

    15) The Supreme Court has adjourned the hearing of plea challenging Article 35A of the Constitution by three months. The apex court’s order came after it was told by Centre that government has appointed a representative (interlocutor) to hold talks with all stakeholders to resolve Kashmir issue. The court was hearing on batch of four petitions demanding scrapping of Article 35A on various grounds. The main petition was filed by Delhi-based NGO in 2014. Three more petitions were also filed but were later clubbed with main one. What is Article 35-A?: Article 35A of the Constitution empowers J&K legislature to define permanent residents (PR) of state. It was added through Constitution (Application to Jammu and Kashmir) Order, 1954 issued under Article 370 of Constitution by the President of India and not by amending constitution under Article 368. The PR law enacted by J&K legislature in pursuance of Article 35A replicates state subject law promulgated by Dogra king Maharaja Hari Singh in 1927 following a strong campaign by Kashmiri Pandits, who had opposed to hiring of civil servants from Punjab because it affected their representation in administration. Permanent Residents: The J&K Constitution adopted on November 17, 1956 defines Permanent Resident as person who was state subject on May 14, 1954, or who has been resident of state for 10 years and has lawfully acquired immovable property in state. It only empowers J&K legislature to alter definition of PR only through law passed by two-thirds majority. The provision of Permanent Resident bars Indian citizens, other than permanent resident of J&K, from settling in state, acquiring immovable properties, seeking employment or undertaking any trade or business if state makes any law to that effect and it cannot be challenged before any court. It also denies property rights to woman who marries a non-permanent resident and her children. Petitions demanding scrapping of Article 35A: The petitioners have challenged Article 35A on ground that it can only have been introduced through Constitutional amendment under Article 368 and not through a Presidential Order under Article 370. They say that Article 35A is against very spirit of oneness of India as it creates a class within a class of Indian citizens. It restricts citizens from other States from getting employment or buying property within J&K, thus is a violation of fundamental rights under Articles 14, 19 and 21 of the Constitution. One petition also held that Article 35A is gender-biased and also against Article 14 of the Constitution as it denies property rights to J&K permanent resident woman who marries a non-resident while a man who marries outside state will continue to enjoy his rights.

    16) Rashtriya Ekta Diwas (National Unity Day) is observed every year across India on 31 October to commemorate birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabhai Patel who had played important role in unifying the country. Observance of day provides an opportunity to re-affirm inherent strength and resilience of our nation to withstand actual and potential threats to unity, integrity and security of our country. To mark this occasion various activities and events are being organised across ministries and departments all over the country. Besides, Run for Unity was organised in New Delhi from the National Stadium. The idea of Rashtriya Ekta Diwas was mooted by PM Narendra Modi in October 2014 to mark the birth anniversary of Independent India’s first Deputy Prime Minister and Home Minister Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel: He was born on 31 October, 1875 at Karamsand, Gujarat and died on 15 December 1950 in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He is known as Iron Man of India or Bismarck of India. By profession, he was barrister (lawyer) and had successfully practiced law. Later he left law practice and joined the Indian national movement under leadership of Mahatma Gandhi. In India’s independence struggle, he played a major role in organizing peasants’ movements on Gandhian principles in Bardoli and Kheda in Gujarat and during the Quit India movement. His biggest contribution to India was his role in the integration of the over 500 princely states with India during 1947-49. He is also remembered as Patron Saint of India’s civil servants for establishing modern All-India services. ‎He was posthumously conferred with Bharat Ratna, India’s highest Civilian honour, in 1991.

    17) India and Italy have signed six agreements to boost cooperation in the fields of railways safety, energy and promoting mutual investments, among others. They were signed after detailed talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Italian counterpart Paolo Gentiloni. He is first prime ministerial trip from Italy to visit India in more than a decade. Key Takeaways from talks: Both leaders discussed wide-ranging issues, including the emerging security challenges facing the world such as terrorism and cybercrimes, while agreed to enhance cooperation to counter them. They vowed to fight violent extremism in all forms and manifestations and agreed to strengthen consultation mechanism through regular exchange of assessments and information, training and capacity building programmes in sphere of counter-terrorism. They also resolved to enhance cooperation to take decisive and concerted actions against al-Qaeda and ISIS. They also called upon all the UN member countries to designate terrorist entities in line with the relevant UNSC Resolutions. Singed Agreements are: MoU on cooperation in field of Energy. Executive Protocol on Cultural Cooperation. Joint Declaration of Intent of Cooperation for Safety in Railway sector. MoU for promoting mutual investments between Italian Trade Agency and Invest India. MoU on 70 years of diplomatic relations between Indian Council of Cultural Relations and Ministry of Foreign Affairs & International Cooperation of Italy. MoU between Training Unit of Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Government of Italy and Foreign Service Institute of the Ministry of External Affairs, India. India-Italy Relations: India and Italy are ancient civilizations and have known, interacted and traded with each other for over 2000 years. Political relations between India and Italy were established in 1947. The two countries enjoy cordial relationship. Italy is India’s fifth largest trading partner in EU with a bilateral trade of US $8.79 billion in 2016-17. India’s exports to Italy were at US $4.90 billion, while its imports were at US $3.89 billion, a trade imbalance of about US $1 billion in favour of India. In the first four months of fiscal 2017-18, bilateral trade had reached US $3.22 billion. India-Italy diplomatic ties took a hit after two Italian marines — Salvatore Girone and Latorre Massimiliano on board ship named Enrica Lexie, were arrested for allegedly killing two Indian fishermen off coast of Kerala in 2012. Italy has supported India’s candidature at Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR) in 2016 and at FATF (Financial Action Task Force). Italy’s support is also crucial for India’s bid for Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) membership and EU-India FTA (Free Trade Agreement).

    18) According to the Global TB Report 2017 released by World Health Organisation (WHO), India has topped list of seven countries, accounting for 64% of the over 10 million new tuberculosis (TB) cases worldwide in year 2016. India was followed by Indonesia, China, Philippines, Pakistan, Nigeria and South Africa. Key Facts: The report said, an estimated 1.7 million people died from TB in 2016, including nearly 4 lakh people who were co-infected with HIV, recording a drop by 4% as compared to 2015. India along with China and Russia accounted for almost half of around 5 lakh multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB) cases registered in 2016. There were estimated 600000 new cases with resistance to rifampicin, the most effective first-line drug, of which 490000 had MDR- TB. Despite global efforts to combat TB, which saved an estimated 53 million lives since 2000 and reduced TB mortality rate by 37%, the disease is still top infectious killer in 2016. The disease also has been reported to be main cause of deaths related to antimicrobial resistance and the leading killer of people with HIV. Main Challenges: The biggest challenge was underreporting and underdiagnosis of TB cases, especially in countries with weak health systems and large unregulated private sectors. Of estimated 10.4 million new cases, only 6.3 million were detected and officially notified in 2016, leaving a gap of 4.1 million. India, Indonesia and Nigeria accounted for almost half of this global gap. Half a million reported cases of HIV-associated TB, 15% were not on antiretroviral therapy (ART) as recommended by WHO. Most of gaps related to HIV-associated TB were in WHO African Region. TB preventive treatment is expanding in two priority risk groups-people living with HIV and children under 5 years. However, most people eligible for TB preventive treatment are not accessing it. Further, investments in low-and middle-income countries for TB care and prevention fall almost US 2.3 billion dollars short of the US 9.2 billion dollars needed in 2017. In addition, at least an extra US 1.2 billion dollars per year are required to accelerate development of new vaccines, diagnostics and medicines. It calls for more domestic funding in middle-income countries and more international donor support to support low-income countries. Further, to stop spread of TB epidemic action beyond health sector is required to address risk factors and determinants of disease. Tuberculosis (TB): TB is bacterial disease caused by “Mycobacterium tuberculosis” bacteria that most often affect the lungs. The disease is spread from person to person through the air. It commonly affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. It is the second biggest killer disease worldwide next only to HIV/AIDS. It can be completely cured with proper and regular medication.

    19) The Law Commission in latest report has recommended government to ratify Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment and also recommended life in jail for public servants convicted of torture. In July 2017, Union Government had asked Law Commission of India to examine issue of ratifying the convention after a writ petition was filed in court. Key Recommendations: UN convention: Government should ratify UN convention on torture and other inhuman and degrading treatment or punishment as it leading to difficulties in extraditing criminals from foreign countries due to the absence of a law preventing harsh treatment by authorities. ‘Prevention of torture bill, 2017: It has proposed legislation to amend various laws to prevent torture by government officials. The bill proposes “stringent punishment” to perpetrators to curb menace of torture and to have deterrent effect on acts of torture. It could extend up to life imprisonment and also fine. Compensation: It suggested amendments to Criminal Procedure Code, 1973, and Indian Evidence Act, 1872 to accommodate provisions regarding compensation and burden of proof. It recommended an amendment to section 357B to incorporate payment of compensation in addition to payment of fine provided in Indian Penal Code. For compensation to victims, courts should decide upon justiciable compensation after taking into account various facets of individual case, such as nature, purpose, extent and manner of injury, including mental agony caused to the victim. The courts should also bear in mind socio-economic background of the victim and ensure that compensation will help victim bear expenses on medical treatment and rehabilitation. Burden of proof: It held that state own responsibility for injuries caused by its agents on citizens and held that principle of sovereign immunity cannot override rights assured by Constitution. It calls for effective mechanism must be put in place to protect victims of torture, complainants and witnesses against possible threats, violence or ill treatment. New section 114B should be inserted in Indian Evidence Act to ensure that in case person in police custody sustains injuries, it is presumed that those injuries have been inflicted by police, and burden of proof shall lie on authority concerned to explain such injury. UN Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment: It is commonly known as United Nations Convention against Torture (UNCAT). It is an international human rights treaty, under review of UN that aims to prevent torture and other acts of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment around the world. It requires states to take effective measures to prevent torture in any territory under their jurisdiction and forbids states to transport people to any country where there is reason to believe they will be tortured.

    20) The Union Home Ministry has liberalised Arms Rules to encourage investments in manufacture of arms, ammunition and weapons systems. The rules were liberalised with aim of making India a regional leader in supplying small arms to neighbouring countries as well as become an export hub. Key Facts: Under the new rules, licence granted for manufacturing will be valid for life-time of licensee company. It does away with requirement of renewal every five years. Now, manufactures will now be able to continue manufacturing on their old licence. Similarly, condition that small arms and light weapons produced by manufacturer should be sold to Central government or State governments with prior approval of Home Ministry also has been dispensed with. Now, enhancement of capacity up to 15% will also not require any approval of government. Moreover, the licence fee also has been reduced and rules in connection have also been liberalised. Significance: The liberalised rules will apply to licences granted by Home Ministry for small arms and ammunition and those granted by Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) for other defence equipment. The liberalised rules will give boost to Centre’s ‘Make in India’ manufacturing policy and promote employment generation in this field. It will facilitate availability of world-class weapons to meet requirements of armed forces and police forces in sync with country’s defence indigenisation programme.

    21) The Union Government and World Bank have signed $200 million Loan Agreement for Assam Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project. The $200 million loan from World Bank’s International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) has a 7-year grace period, and a maturity of 16.5 years. Assam Agribusiness and Rural Transformation Project: The Project will support Assam Government to facilitate agri-business investments, increase agriculture productivity and market access and enable small farm holders produce crops that are resilient to recurrent floods or droughts in state. It will help state to increase agricultural productivity by strengthening farming systems, raise private sector investments to promote agri-enterprises to create better job opportunities for youth in state. The Project will be implemented in over 16 Districts of Assam. Over 500,000 farming households will directly benefit from it and at least 30% women are expected to participate in project activities. Specific focus will be given to women-led enterprises and their participation in decision-making process of farmer producer organizations. The project will promote market-led production that can deal with vagaries of climate change. Market-led production system will take advantage of rapidly changing market, introduce crops that are resilient to climate change, increase production and manage risks for farmers. Besides, it will focus on geographic clustering of production base for certain commodities which will help agri-enterprises take advantage of existing and future market opportunities that they may not necessarily achieve alone. Successful clusters will help to innovate and adapt ‘best practices’ across agricultural value chains.

    22) The world’s first hybrid electric tram powered by hydrogen fuel cells was launched in China’s Tangshan city, north China’s Hebei Province to give big boost to green energy in public transport. The first of its kind ecologically-friendly tram was domestically developed by China Railway Rolling Stock Corporation (CRRC) in 2015. Key Facts:The ecologically-friendly tram emits only water without any pollutants. It does not produce any nitrogen oxides (NOx), as the temperature of e reaction inside the fuel cell is kept under 100 degrees Celsius. The tram, having three carriages with 66 seats and can run for 40 kilometers at a maximum speed of 70 kilometers per hour after being refilled with 12 kilograms of hydrogen. The tram coach rides on a 136-year-old railway line and connects several industrial heritage sites of Tangshan, one of China’s oldest industrial cities not far from the capital Beijing. It has latest low-floor technology which has kept the distance between carriage floor of tram and rail line only 35 centimeters and remove need for station platforms and making boarding easy for passengers.

    23) The Union Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) has launched MSME Delayed Payment Portal – MSME Samadhaan (http://msefc.msme.gov.in). The portal aims at empowering micro and small entrepreneurs across country to directly register their cases relating to delayed payments by Central Ministries, Departments, CPSEs, State Governments. Key Facts: The Samadhaan portal will give information about pending payment of MSEs with individual CPSEs/Central Ministries, State Governments, etc. The CEO of PSEs and Secretary of Ministries concerned will also be able to monitor cases of delayed payment under their jurisdiction and issue necessary instructions to resolve the issues. The portal will facilitate monitoring of delayed payment in more effective manner. The information on portal will be available in public domain, thus exerting moral pressure on defaulting organisations. The MSEs will also be empowered to access portal and monitor their cases. Background: Micro, Small and Medium Enterprise Development (MSMED) Act, 2006 contains provisions to deal with cases of delayed payment to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs). As per provisions, buyer is liable to pay compound interest with monthly rests to supplier on amount at three times of bank rate notified by Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in case he does not make payment to supplier for supplies of goods or services within 45 days of day of acceptance of goods and services ordeemed day of acceptance.

    24) Vikram Singh appointed as Private Secretary to President: The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has appointed Vikram Singh as Private Secretary to President Ram Nath Kovind for a period of two years. He is 1997 batch officer of the Indian Railway Traffic Service (IRTS). Currently, he is posted as a senior director in the Traffic Commercial directorate in the Railway Board. In Railways, he was working in the vertical responsible for increasing revenues from passenger segment and create policies for commercial earnings within passenger-amenities ecosystem. B C Khanduri to head parliamentary standing committee on defence: BJP MP B C Khanduri will head the recently constituted parliamentary standing committee on defence. The committee will examine operational preparedness of armed forces and review accidents involving strategic defence assets. It will also assess the procurement policy relating to defence equipment. It will also critically review accidents involving strategic defence assets and look into quality of ration provided to forces especially in border areas. Microsoft Partners Karnataka Government to bring AI to agriculture: Karnataka government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with tech giant Microsoft for empowering farmers with technology-oriented solutions like Cloud, Artificial Intelligence (AI) and advanced analytics. The move is also aimed at using digital tools that have the potential to deliver cutting edge innovations and AI to help farmers get higher crop yields in state. The MoU will experiment with Karnataka Agricultural Price Commission (KAPC) and Department of Agriculture to help improve price forecasting practices to benefit farmers. It will help enable the use of intelligent technologies to deliver solutions in the agriculture sector. Sharmila Tagore honoured with 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award by PHDCCI: Veteran actor Sharmila Tagore was honoured with 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award by PHD Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PHDCCI) for her contribution in the field of cinema. She was presented with the award by Minister of State for Prime Minister’s Office Jitendra Singh and Delhi BJP chief Manoj Tiwari. Sharmila Tagore is celebrated actor who had debuted in movies with legendary director Satyajit Ray’s Bengali film Apur Sansar (1959). Apart from her, Filmmaker-poet Muzaffar Ali was conferred with Special Award for his outstanding contribution to promote and arts, fine arts and literature. Music legend Usha Mangeshkar and singers Prem Bhatia, Ankit Tiwari, Kavita Seth, Akriti Kakar, Rahul Vaidya, Manmeet of Meet Brothers and actor Sukhmani Lamba were also felicitated at the event. England wins FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017: England won 17th edition of FIFA U-17 World Cup by defeating Spain by 5-2 goals in the final match held at Vivekananda Yuba Bharati Krirangan/Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata, West Bengal. England’s Phil Foden was adjudged tournament’s best player and was awarded ‘Golden Ball’. Besides, Rhian Brewster of England who scored most goals in tournament (8 goals) was awarded ‘Golden Shoe’. Brazil’s goalkeeper Gabriel Brazao was awarded ‘Golden Glove’. 17th edition of FIFA U-17 World Cup was held in India from 6th – 28th October 2017. The official Mascot for FIFA U-17 World Cup 2017 was clouded leopard named ‘Kheleo’. FIFA U-17 WC is biennial international football tournament of men’s under-17 national teams organised by FIFA. Pakistan to 2018 Asian Cricket Council Emerging Nations Cup: Pakistan will host the 2018 Asian Cricket Council (ACC) Emerging Nations Cup in April 2018. The decision was taken during the meeting of the ACC held in Lahore on October 2017. In it, six ACC teams including five full members will play in the tournament.

    25) The 11th India-United States Trade Policy Forum (TPF) Meeting was held in Washington D.C, capital city of US. It was chaired jointly by Union Minister for Commerce and Industry Suresh Prabhu and US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer. Both sides held discussions on issues related to bilateral trade, areas of mutual cooperation, market access in agriculture, non-agricultural goods and services and Intellectual Property Rights (IPR). Key Facts: Concerns raised by US: Market access issues, import regulations relating to poultry, ground handling operations, export of pork to India and price controls on medical devices. Concerns raised by India: Easing of procedure for export of Indian pomegranates and mangoes and market access for table grapes from India. Problems faced by Indian services companies in obtaining H-1B and L-1 visas. It requested US to ease movement of skilled professionals as Indian IT companies contribute significantly to American economy. Issue of tantalisation i.e. mismatch between US visa and US social security regimes was also raised. In this case, Indian professionals making social security contributions, but they do not receive their due benefits upon their return to India. Greater opportunities for US exports to India: National IPR Policy 2016 lays down roadmap for future development in field of IPRs. It is considered as major step towards strengthening IPR ecosystem in India, including improvements in procedures, timelines and resolution of disputes. Draft Pharmaceutical Policy addresses many of US concerns. India desires to address concerns of providing affordable healthcare to its citizens and balancing it with the need to introduce high end technology. US manufacturers of medical devices have been encouraged to establish manufacturing facilities in India. India already has started to import crude oil and new Liquefied Natural Gas exports are expected to commence early next year. Indian aviation companies have placed orders for over 300 aircrafts valued at several billions of dollars. Background: Bilateral trade between India and US has increased to US $64.51 billion in 2016-17, from US $62.11 billion in previous fiscal. However, foreign direct investment (FDI) from US into India dipped to US $2.37 billion in 2016-17 from US $4.19 billion in 2015-16.

    26) Scientists from ETH Zurich in Switzerland have successfully created the world’s shortest X-ray laser pulse with duration of just 43 attoseconds (1×10−18 of a second). This laser pulse is the shortest controlled event that has ever been created by humans. Laser: Laser is an acronym for Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation. It is highly coherent, unidirectional beam of perfectly monochromatic light. It has greater energy than normal light. It is used in range of application like sensors, optical communication sources etc. Applications:Using this laser pulse, researchers can now observe in high detail how electrons movement within molecule and fully understand dynamics during chemical reaction. This laser can also help in attosecond spectroscopy, by contributing development of more efficient solar cells by observing the process of excitation through sunlight up to the generation of electricity step by step. Moreover, a detailed understanding of charge transfer pathway using it can also help in optimizing the efficiency of next generation of photosensitive elements. Using this laser pulse, chemical reactions can also be directly manipulated by altering course of reaction even chemical bonds can be broken by stopping charge shift at certain location in molecule.

    27) The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) has announced that India will host next Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS) Conference of Parties 13 (CMS COP13) in year 2020. CMS COP is also known as a Global Wildlife Conference. Key Facts: The announcement was made during 12th Meeting of the Conference of the Parties 12 (COP12) to CMS held in Manila, Philippines. It was held from 23 to 28 October 2017 and was attended by over 500 delegates from more than 91 countries participated in the summit which is held once in three years. The theme of the CMS COP12 was “Their Future is Our Future – Sustainable Development for Wildlife and People”. This was for first time the summit was held in Asia. The CMS COP12 was also the largest-ever meeting in the 38-year history of the convention. Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS): CMS is an international treaty concluded under aegis of United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), concerned with conservation of wildlife and habitats on a global scale. It is commonly abbreviated as Convention on Migratory Species (CMS) or the Bonn Convention. CMS aims to conserve terrestrial, marine and avian migratory species throughout their range. It was signed in 1979 in Bonn (hence the name), Germany and entered into force in 1983. Its headquarters are in Bonn, Germany. Since its entry into force, its membership has grown steadily to include over 120 Parties from Africa, Central and South America, Asia, Europe and Oceania. CMS is only global and UN-based intergovernmental organization established exclusively for conservation and management of terrestrial, aquatic and avian migratory species throughout their range.

    28) The Union Defence Ministry and Indian Army has finalised infantry modernisation plan to purchase large number of light machine guns (LMGs), assault rifles and battle carbines at cost of nearly Rs. 40,000 crore to replace its ageing and obsolete weapons. It is one of biggest procurement plans of Indian Army under which around 7 lakh rifles, 44,000 LMGs and nearly 44,600 carbines will be acquired for infantry modernisation. Key Facts: The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), Defence Ministry’s highest decision making body on procurement is expected to give the go-ahead for the much needed procurement soon. In this regard, fresh RFI (request for information) to procure LMGs will be issued. The plan is to initially procure around 10,000 LMGs. The Army has also finalised the specifications for a new 7.62 mm assault rifle and General Service Quality Requirements (GSQR) also has been finalised. Background: The Indian Army which is world’s second largest standing army has been pressing for fast-tracking procurement of various weapons systems considering the evolving security threats. In the past, procurement of assault rifles has witnessed significant delays due to variety of reasons including Army’s failure to finalise the specifications for it. The Army needs around 7 lakh 7.62×51 mm assault guns to replace its INSAS rifles. RFI is a process whose purpose is to collect information about capabilities of various vendors. The infantry modernisation plan is major initiative of Indian Army and it will significantly bolster the overall capability of the foot soldiers. Lightweight rifle: It is developed from sub-machine gun and may be set to fire automatically or semi-automatically. Light machine gun (LMG): It is a machine gun designed employed by individual soldier with or without assistant as an infantry support weapon. These guns are often used as squad automatic weapons. Carbine: It is a long arm firearm but with shorter barrel than rifle or musket. Many of them are shortened versions of full-length rifles and shoot same ammunition, while others fire lower-powered ammunition, including types designed for pistols.

    29) India has flagged off shipment of wheat for Afghanistan through Iran’s Chabahar port. It was flagged off from Kandla port in Gujarat by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Afghan counterpart Salahuddin Rabbani through video conferencing. Key Facts: Chabahar port is strategically located in Sistan-Balochistan province on energy-rich Iran’s southern coast in Gulf of Oman near its border with Pakistan and can be easily accessed from India’s western coast. The first consignment transfer was part of India’s commitment to send 1.1 million tonnes of wheat to Afghanistan on grant basis. Afghanistan will receive entire amount in six different instalments over coming months. The consignment will be transported to Afghanistan from Chabahar through land route. Significance: The shipment of wheat is considered as landmark moment as it paves way for operationalisation of Chabahar port as an alternate, reliable and robust connectivity for landlocked Afghanistan, bypassing Pakistan. It is first shipment going to Afghanistan through Chabahar port after trilateral agreement on Establishment of International Transport and Transit Corridor was signed between India, Afghanistan and Iran during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Iran in May 2016. The operationalisation of Chabahar port will open up new opportunities for trade and transit from and to Afghanistan and enhance trade and commerce between India, Afghanistan and Iran and wider region in wake of Pakistan denying transit access to New Delhi for trade with the two countries.

    30) The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is set to move a proposal before Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) for taking over Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). BCAS, currently under the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) is responsible for laying down standards, policies and measures with regard to security of all commercial flights. Multiple security agencies working at airports, including immigration officials, Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) security personnel, local police and Intelligence Bureau (IB) are bound by regulations passed by BCAS. Key Facts: The decision is based on security audit conducted by team of experts from MHA, IB, CISF and BCAS which had recommended change. Once CCS gives its approval, CISF will assume larger role in airport security. The new set-up will help in better coordination and monitoring, since CISF, IB and state intelligence all report to MHA. It will also speed up issue of security clearances for airlines and airports as in the past, there have been inordinate delays in granting clearances due to differences between MHA and MoCA on grounds that airlines and airports have not complied with norms despite guidelines. The move may also result in increase in passenger security fee since CISF will be deployed at all 98 airports across country. Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS): It was set up as a cell in Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in 1978, after an Indian Airlines flight was hijacked in September 1976. BCAS was reorganised as an independent department under MoCA in April 1987, as follow-up to Kanishka bombing in June 1985. It is currently headed by a commissioner of security.

    31) India’s ace shuttler Kidambi Srikanth (World no. 8) won French Open Superseries badminton title in men’s single category. In the final match, he defeated Japan’s Kenta Nishimoto by 21-14, 21-13 score. It was Kidambi Srikanth’s fourth Super Series Premier title in 2017 season after winning Australian Super Series title, Indonesia Super Series Premier title and Denmark Open Super Series title. Other Category Winners: Women’s single: It was won by Tai Tzu-ying from Chinese Taipei. Men’s double: It was won by Chinese Taipei’s Lee Jhe-huei and Lee Yang. Women’s doubles title: It was won by Indonesia’s Greysia POLL and Apriyani Rahayu by defeating Lee Sottee and SHIN Seung Chen by 21-17, 21-15 score. Mixed Doubles title: It was won by Indonesia’s Tontowi Ahmad and Liliyana NATSIR by defeating Zheng Siwei and Chen Qingchen by 22-20, 21-15 score. French Open: It is annual Badminton tournament held in France since 1909. It is hosted by the Fédération française de badminton (FFBa). Earlier it was not considered as one of the international badminton circuit’s leading events. But in 2007, it was promoted to become part of the BWF Super Series, making it one of 12 major badminton tournaments in world.

    32) Several species of vultures including four from India on their migratory routes were awarded highest protection by the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS). They were among 34 species which were awarded highest protection during CMS Summit held in Manila in submissions made by 24 countries from Asia, Africa, Americas, Europe and Oceania. Species awarded highest protection are: Asian vultures are red-headed vulture, white-rumped vulture, Indianvulture and slender-billed vulture. They are faced with threats such as poisoning, hunting, collision with electricity cables and habitat degradation. A subspecies of black noddy, yellow bunting and lesser and great grey shrike are other avians listed on CMS protected list. Whale shark, which inhabits the Indian Ocean also got global protection. Blue shark and common guitarfish also was awarded highest protection. Widespread over-fishing is driving many shark species, including whale shark to extinction. India is among 121 nations whose waters are home to sharks threatened with near extinction. The major threats are bycatch in nets and vessel strikes. Caspian seal also has been identified for conservation. It is the only marine mammal found in the world’s largest inland sea, where its migration is prompted by ice formation and foraging. Central Asia’s rarest species, Przewalski’s horse and Gobi bear also received highest degree of protection. Outcomes of Manila summit of CMS: The summit held in Manila was largest in the 38-year history of the Convention, which is also known as Bonn Convention after German city in which it was signed. Delegates from 91 countries had attended the summit. Manila summit adopted resolution to develop and manage protected area networks within the ASEAN region. Governments also agreed to cooperate on reducing negative impact of marine debris, noise pollution, renewable energy and climate change on the lives of migratory species.

    33) Scientists have found that parasite called Leptomonas seymouri hosting virus called Lepsey NLV1 may be also responsible for spread of kala-azar (visceral leishmaniasis). Earlier it was believed that parasite Leishmania donovani (sandfly) alone is responsible for spread of the dreaded infection. Key Facts: Scientists have found that Leptomonas seymouri parasite hosts virus called Lepsey NLV1 which is responsible for spread of kala-azar. However, scientists are still not clear how parasites cause infection and how it manages to hide within body. The discovery portends new kind of treatment regime and may aid attempts to eradicating disease. Kala-azar: Kala-azar or visceral leishmaniasis (VL), also known as black fever and Dumdum fever is most severe form of leishmaniasis. It is zoonotic (or parasatic) infection transmitted by sand fly (Leishmania donovani), a blood-sucking pest, which is one-third size of mosquitoes and found in moist (humid) mud and sand and in close proximity to livestock. It signs and symptoms include fever, weight loss, fatigue, anemia, and substantial swelling of liver and spleen. It is treatable and requires a medical diagnosis. If untreated, kala-azar can kill within two years of onset of ailment. Kala-azar belongs to Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) family of diseases which affect poorest populations. It is second-largest parasitic killer in world after Malaria. It is endemic to Indian subcontinent in 119 districts in four countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal). India accounts for half the global burden of Kala-azar disease.

    34) Larsen and Toubro (L&T) handed over offshore patrol vessel (OPV) named “Vikram” to the Indian Coast Guard. It is country’s first-ever such defence vessel to be built in a private shipyard. The vessel was indigenously developed in-house at L&T’s Kattupalli shipyard. Its entire design and construction processes have undergone dual certification from American Bureau of Shipping and Indian Registrar of Shipping. OPV Vikram is first of seven vessels for which by Ministry of Defence had awarded Rs. 1,432-crore contract to L&T in March 2015. It will be inducted into service by April 2018 after completion of extensive trials of equipment and machineries. Key Facts: The OPV Vikram is 97 metres long, 15 metre wide and has 2,140 tonne displacement capacity with range of 5,000 nautical miles and can reach speed of up to 26 knots (One knot is 1.852 km/hr). It is equipped with state-of-the-art radars, navigation and communication systems capable of operating in tropical conditions. About 60% components of the ship were sourced from domestic suppliers. The ship is fitted with one 30 mm automatic gun with Fire Control System (FCS) and two 12.7 mm gun with FCS. It has integral twin-engine helicopter and backend helipad, which enhances its operational, surveillance, search and rescue capabilities. It will be deployed for day and night surveillance patrol, search and rescue and in pollution response operations in exclusive economic zones (EEZ) of the country.

    35) The Union Government has made use of Public Finance Management System (PFMS) mandatory for all central schemes to ensure that benefits of government schemes reach the last mile. It will help monitor the flow of funds to beneficiaries of different government welfare schemes. So far total of 613 Central Sector Schemes are covered under PFMS having 34.19 crore beneficiaries with help of 21.72 lakh programme registered implementing agencies. These schemes with a budgetary outlay of Rs.6, 66,644 crore covers over 31% of total Central Government expenditure during the current financial year 2017-18. Public Finance Management System (PFMS): The PFMS scheme has been rolled out by Controller General of Accounts at behest of Union Finance Ministry, Department of Department of Expenditure. It is an electronic fund tracking mechanism compiles, collates and makes available in real-time, information regarding all government schemes. PFMS is poised to develop as one of biggest financial management systems of the world, critical for bringing about transformational accountability and transparency in promoting overall good governance. It aims at providing government real-time information on resource availability and utilisation across schemes. It aims at promoting transparency and bringing about tangible improvements in overall Central Government Financial Management as well as implementation of various Central Government Schemes across the country. PFMS’s ambit of coverage includes Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes as well as other expenditures including Finance Commission Grants. In future, Government aims to transform PFMS to Government-wide Integrated Financial Management System (GIFMIS) as a comprehensive payment, receipt and accounting system. Significance: The PFMS aims to help in complete tracking and monitoring flow of funds to implementing agencies and ensuring timely transfer of funds. It will help government to ascertain actual status of utilization of funds by multiple implementing agencies of central and the state governments. It will also cut need for paper work and in long way help in monitoring and tracking of any unnecessary parking of funds by implementing agencies, thus minimising cases of delay and pending payments to large extent. It will help to plug leakages in system and help to manage and maintain data that government can use to develop more scientific approach.

    36) The Union Government has inked $65.5 million loan agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) to continue interventions to check coastal erosion on the Western Coast in Karnataka. The loan is second tranche of $250 million financing facility under Sustainable Coastal Protection and Management Investment Program for 20-year term. It will be used for to address immediate coastal protection needs and for strengthening institutional capacity of Karnataka’s Inland Water Transport Department and Public Works, Ports. Sustainable Coastal Protection and Management Investment Program: It consist of eight coastal protection subprojects to address issues of medium to severe coastal erosion resulting in protection of about 54 km of coastline in Karnataka. It has already demonstrated benefit of adoption of softer options such as artificial reefs, beach nourishments, and dune management for coastal protection. State Department of Public Works is responsible for implementation of overall program which is due for completion by September 2020. Background: Karnataka’s coast supports state’s major economic sectors, which include agriculture, fisheries, tourism, ports and other major transport and communication sectors. Coastal erosion in state poses high risk to human wellbeing, economic developmen, and ecological integrity through loss of land, infrastructure, and business opportunities. Under increasing threat from climate change impacts, coastal protection and management has evolved as major challenge to development. This project is mainly focused for effective and sustainable management of shoreline which is vital for sustainable economic and social development of coastal regions in state.

    37) The 14th South Asian Association for Regional Co-operation in Law (SAARCLAW) Conference was held in Colombo, capital city of Sri Lanka along with 11th SAARC Chief Justices Conference. The three-day conference was inaugurated by Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and saw participation from South Asia’s top Judges, legal practitioners and academics. Key Facts: The SAARCLAW Conference provided platform for legal professionals to meet and discuss issues of mutual interests and emerging legal trends in the South Asian countries. It also discussed issues like artificial intelligence, human trafficking, Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) and environmental protection concerns. Besides, 11th Chief Justices conference was held in a closed-door session and was attended only by Chief Justices or their representatives. It provided Chief Justices of SAARC countries opportunity to consider relevance of judiciaries within South Asia. SAARCLAW Conference: It was established in Sri Lanka in 1991. Since then conference has provided a platform for legal professionals from South Asian region to meet and discuss issues of mutual interests pertaining to justice, legal reforms, good governance and enforcement over a span of 25 years. South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC): SAARC is regional intergovernmental organization and geopolitical union of nations in South Asia. Its member states include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. It comprises 3% of world’s area, 21% of world’s population and 3.8% of global economy as of 2015.

    38) The first phase of national optic fibre network christened as Bharat Net project will be completed by December 2017, thus providing internet access to 100,000 gram panchayats. It was announced in ‘i-Bharat 2017’ conference organised by industry body FICCI in association with Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology based on theme of ‘ICT Elucidations for Unserved and Unsolved’. Key Facts: So far, Bharat Net has connected 83,000 gram panchayats. But now it is imperative to create fibre-first programme where government, as well as private sector join hands to achieve objective of doubling the reach of telecom fibre network in the country by 2020. BharatNet: BharatNet is Union Government’s ambitious rural internet connectivity programme which is implemented by Bharat Broadband Network Limited (BBNL). It is world’s largest rural broadband connectivity programme using Optical fibre. Bharat Net seeks to connect all of India’s households, particularly rural areas, through demand, affordable high-speed broadband connectivity of 2 Mbps to 20 Mbps to realise the vision of Digital India. The project is being funded by Universal service Obligation Fund (USOF).

    39) Veteran writer-lyricist Javed Akhtar (72) was honoured with the 2017 Hridaynath Mangeshkar Award at event in Mumbai which marked 80th birthday of veteran music composer Hridaynath Mangeshkar and 28th anniversary of Hridayesh Arts. Javed Akhtar: He was born on 17 January 1945. He is poet, lyricist and screenwriter. He is mainstream writer and some of his most successful work was carried out with Salim Khan as half of script-writing duo credited as Salim-Javed between 1971 and 1982. The duo had worked together in 24 films including two Kannada films of which 20 were hits. He is recipient of Padma Shri (1999), Padma Bhushan (2007), Sahitya Akademi Award as well as five National Film Awards. He was nominated as Rajya Sabha member in November 2009 Hridaynath Mangeshkar Award: The award was established in 2011 by Mumbai-based socio-cultural organisation Hridayesh Art in honour of music composer and singer Hridaynath Mangeskar. It felicitates and recognises successful individuals across country from various walks of life. It carries monetary award of Rs 2 lakh and a memento. The previous recipients of the award include eminent personalities like Lata Mangeshkar, Asha Bhosle, Amitabh Bachchan, Hariprasad Chaurasia, A R Rahman. The 2016 award was awarded to five-time world chess champion Vishwanathan Anand. Hridaynath Mangeskar is son of renowned musician Deenanath Mangeshkar and is younger brother of Indian music legends Lata Mangeshkar and Asha Bhosle.

    40) The Indian Railways is planning to revise its flexi-fare system on premium trains such as Rajdhani, Shatabdi and Duronto in such a way that it does not hurt people’s pockets and also meets Railways’ revenue target. In this regard, Railway Board is considering proposal of selling half the seats (i.e. 50% seats) from existing 10% seats without any surge pricing. Need: The problem with present flexi-fare system having dynamic pricing is that fares rise soon after first 10% of tickets on a train are sold. The fares increase 10% with every 10% of seats sold with a maximum hike of 1.5 times normal fares in sleeper, air-conditioned chair car and two-tier AC classes and 1.4 times in three-tier AC. Revised flexi-fare system: The revised flexi-fare system aims to be passenger-friendly in such way that half of passengers who book early can get advantage of relatively cheaper fare. The Railways attempted to lower the fares of the train by allowing passengers to opt out, at the time of booking, of the meals served on board. Flexi-fare system: The flexi-fare system introduced in September 2016 aims to generate additional revenues and reduce cross-subsidisation from freight through dynamic pricing of fares based on the demand. Under the present model, the base fares increases by 10% with every 10% of berths sold subject to a prescribed ceiling limit as indicated in table. The system has generated additional revenue of Rs. 551 crore between September 2016 and June 2017 compared with collections during corresponding period in 2015-16.

    41) The First International Consumer Protection Conference on empowering consumers in new markets for South, South East and East Asian Countries was held in New Delhi from 26 to 27 October 2017. The theme of the conference was “Empowering Consumers in New Markets”. It was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Key Facts: The two day conference was organised by Department of Consumer Affairs, Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution in association with UNCTAD. The conference was attended by 1600 participants that included delegates from 19 countries from East, South and South-East Asia which account for majority of global consumers and share common challenges and experiences participated in it. New Consumer Protection Bill: During inauguration of the conference PM Narendra Modi announced that new consumer protection law is on anvil to crack down on misleading advertisements and simplify grievance redressal mechanism. The main objective of new law will be to protect the rights of consumers. It will replace previous Consumer Protection Act of 1986 by incorporating amended 2015 UN guidelines on consumer protection. It proposes to have Central Consumer Protection Authority with executive powers will be constituted for quick remedial action. It also establishes Consumer Dispute Redressal Commissions at every district, state and national levels. United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD): UNCTAD is principal organ of United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) dealing with trade, investment, and development issues. It was established in 1964 and its permanent secretariat is in Geneva. Its primary objective is to formulate policies relating to all aspects of development including trade, aid, transport, finance and technology. It ordinarily meets once in four years.

    42) Indian Railway’s first set of solar plants with total capacity of 5 megawatt peak (MWp) was launched on roof tops of Hazrat Nizamuddin, New Delhi, Anand Vihar and Delhi railway stations by Railway Minister Piyush Goyal. This project was launched as part of Union Government’s ambitious National Solar Mission in which Indian Railways plans to commission 1000 MWp solar plants across its network. Key Facts: The first set of solar plant will generate 76.5 lakh units of solar power cumulatively per year and will meet about 30% of energy requirement of these stations. Through these project, railways will save Rs 421.4 lakh annually and will reduce 6082 tonnes of CO2 emissions. The project was awarded in December 2016 and bought in by the developer at cost Rs.37.45 crore under the Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. The developer will maintain it for 25 years and Railways will only pay energy consumed at Rs 4.14 per unit.

    43) Sri Lanka has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with India to build 1,200 houses in strategically located southern port city of Hambantota. Of the 1,200 houses to be built, 600 will be constructed in Southern Province, while remaining will be built across Sri Lanka, through one model village in each of country’s 25 districts. Background: Hambantota port is located right in middle of vital energy supply lines in Indian Ocean, connecting Middle East and East Asia. In recent times, coastal city of Hambantota had gained strategic significance after Sri Lankan government had decided to build massive deep-sea port and airport with huge Chinese loans. In July 2017, Sri Lankan government had signed US $1.1 billion deal to sell 70% stake of strategic Hambantota deep-sea port to China to service outstanding $8-billion debt it owes China. The deal had fanned concerns of countries with competing strategic interests with China, particularly India and US. Local residents of Hambantota are also protesting selling of “national assets to foreign entities” leading to violent clashes. Significance: The signing of MoU in Hambantota assumes significance as it takes India’s housing project to Sinhala-majority Southern Province. Earlier India had constructed as many as 46,000 homes in Tamil-majority north and east, and 4,000 houses are being built in hill country in Central and Uva provinces, where several thousand Sri Lankans of recent Indian origin live and work. India also is taking steps to protect itself in Indian Ocean by allying itself with US and Japan in a bid to counter growing Chinese influence in IOR.

    44) Scientists from The Broad Institute and Massachusetts Institute of Technology in US have developed RNA Editing for Programmable A to I Replacement (REPAIR), a new gene editing tool therapies that can reverse disease-causing mutations in humans. REPAIR gene editing tool can tweak an individual RNA ‘letters’ in human cells without making changes to entire genome and can have profound potential as a tool for both research and disease treatment. REPAIR: REPAIR is based on gene editing tool CRISPR (Clustered Regularly Interspaced Short Palindromic Repeats) that can be used to modify DNA in cells. The new tool can change single RNA nucleosides in mammalian cells in a programmable and precise fashion. To create REPAIR, scientists had systematically profiled CRISPR-Cas13 enzyme family for potential editor candidates. They had selected enzyme called PspCas13b from Prevotella bacteria which was most effective at inactivating RNA. Scientists had engineered deactivated variant of PspCas13b enzyme that binds to specific stretches of RNA but lacks its scissor-like activity and fused it to a protein called ADAR2, which changes nucleoside adenosine to inosine in RNA transcripts. Significance: REPAIR has ability to reverse disease-causing mutations at RNA level, as well as other potential therapeutic and basic science applications. It paves way for therapies that can reverse mutations and has profound potential as tool for both research and disease treatment. REPAIR has ability to target individual RNA letters or nucleosides, switching adenosines to inosines. These letters are involved in single-base changes which are known to regularly cause genetic disease in humans. For ex, in human disease, a mutation from G to A is extremely common and these alterations have been implicated in for cases of focal epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease and Duchenne muscular dystrophy. Thus, it can reverse impact of any pathogenic G-to-A mutation regardless of its surrounding nucleotide sequence, with potential to operate in any cell type. Comment: RNA editing using REPAIR offers safer, more flexible way to make corrections in cell unlike permanent changes to genome required for DNA editing using CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing technology. REPAIR can also fix mutations without tampering with genome as RNA naturally degrades making it potentially reversible fix.

    45) The Union Ministry of Tourism gave Letters of Intent (LoI) to seven shortlisted companies for adopting 14 monuments under Adopt a Heritage Scheme at the closing ceremony of ‘Paryatan Parv’ held in New Delhi. The shortlisted companies will be future ‘Monument Mitras’ who would associate pride with their Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) activities. 14 adopted monuments include: Jantar Mantar, Purana Quila, Safdarjung Tomb, Agrasen ki Baoli, and Qutub Minar (Delhi), Hampi (Karnataka), Ajanta Caves (Maharashtra), Sun Temple, Raja Rani Temple and Ratnagiri Monuments (Odisha), Leh Palace and Mt. StokKangri (Jammu & Kashmir), Mattancherry Palace Museum (Kerala), Gangotri Temple Area and Trail (Uttarakhand). Background: These companies were selected by Inter-Ministerial Oversight and Vision Committee of Ministry after detailed scrutiny of 57 responses ranging from travel industry, hospitality industry and banking industry for adopting monuments under the Adopt a Heritage Scheme. Adopt a Heritage Scheme (Apni Dharohar Apni Pehchan Project): The scheme was launched by Union Ministry of Tourism on World Tourism Day (27th September). Under it, Private, Public Sector Companies and Corporate individuals were invited to adopt heritage sites and to take up responsibility for making them and promote sustainable tourism through conservation and development under their CSR activities. This scheme was launched by Tourism Ministry in close collaboration with Ministry of Culture and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI). It envisages at developing monuments, heritage and tourist sites across India and making them tourist friendly and enhance their tourism potential and cultural importance in planned and phased manner. The project primarily focuses on development and maintenance of world-class tourist infrastructure and amenities including basic civic amenities and advanced amenities like cleanliness, public conveniences, secure environment, ease of access, illumination and night viewing facilities for inclusive tourist experience to increase both domestic and foreign tourists footfall.

    46) The Rajasthan Assembly passed Backward Classes (Reservation of Seats in Educational Institutions in State and of Appointment and Posts in Services under State) Bill, 2017 by voice vote. The bill seeks to provide 5% reservation to Gujjars and four other nomadic communities viz. Banjara, Gadia-Lohar, Raika and Gadariya in state government jobs and educational institutions as Other Backward Classes (OBCs). It increases reservation for OBCs from 21% to 26%. It also creates new most backward category within OBCs for providing quota benefit to Gujjars and four other nomadic communities. With passage of bill, reservation in Rajasthan now stands at 54%, exceeding 50% ceiling mandated by Supreme Court. Background: Earlier also Rajasthan Assembly had passed Special Backward Classes Act 2015 to provide 5% reservation for these castes by creating a separate Special Backward Castes category. However, Rajasthan High Court had struck down the legislation saying that quota cannot not only exceed 50% limit set by Supreme Court. It also pointed out flaws in government’s process of granting additional 5% reservation for these castes and held that it is not supported by quantifiable data supporting the claim of Gujjars’ backwardness.

    47) The International Conference of heads of Metrology Institutes held in Sevres, France has decided that the measure of kilogram will no longer be pegged to cylinder. From 2019 onwards, it will be set by value of Planck constant in combination with definitions of meter and second. Why it was changed? Till now, the kilogram is the only one among units of measures pegged to real object. It was pegged to a cylinder (shown in fig) made up of 90% platinum and 10% iridium (In India, salt-shaker-sized cylinder weighing exactly a kilogram in National Physical Laboratory was used as ideal measure of kilogram since 1957). It was serving as reference for variety of industries to keep their weights accurate. But this cylinder’s weight in kilogram is known to fluctuate due to surface contamination with time, making it tricky to define its exact mass.‎ New measure for kilogram: ‎The new measure for kilogram from 2019 will be derived from constants of nature that are all interdependent. ‎It will be set by value of Planck constant in combination with definitions of meter and second. Kibble balance will be used to make accurate measures of Planck constant. ‎Kibble balance is set of scales, which uses force produced by current-carrying wire in magnetic field to balance weight of mass. Note: In this case, meter and second units themselves are depended on other constants. The second unit is defined by frequency of an atomic transition in cesium-133 and meter depends on second and the speed of light. The Planck constant (denoted h) is a physical constant i.e. quantum of action, central in quantum mechanics. Significance: The new measure for kilogram will provide utmost accuracy in work. It will be no longer be subject to wear and tear and thus and thus, there will be no sources of error in actual reference weight measure. Background: In last 60 years, several standard units like second, metre, Kelvin, ampere, mole, candela and kilogram ceased to be defined by physical objects. ‎For example, 1 metre earlier was measured by a platinum-iridium bar, but in 1960, it was re-defined as distance travelled by light in vacuum in 1/299,792,458 seconds. From 2018, seven prime units in International System of Units (inner circle) will be defined by seven constants (outer circle).

    48) The Infantry Day in observed every year in India on 27 October to commemorate supreme sacrifices made by Indian Army’s infantry against Pakistan in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) in 1947. It was first infantry action by Indian Army after independence. Observance of the day also commemorates infantry’s exceptional courage and dedicated service to nation. Background: On this day in 1947, Indian Army from 1st Battalion of SIKH Regiment had taken bold action to thwart nefarious designs to invade J&K by Pakistani Army supported tribals. The infantry of Indian Army was airdropped after troops were airlifted from Delhi and landed at Srinagar to liberate Kashmir from invaders in order to protect sovereignty and territorial integrity of nation. The operation was undertaken following orders of then Prime Minister Jawahar Lal Nehru after Maharaja Hari Singh, the ruler of princely state of J&K signed Instrument of Accession on 26 October 1947 to accede or merge state with India.

    49) The World Day for Audiovisual Heritage (WDAH) is observed every year on October 27 to raise of awareness of significance of and preservation risks recorded sound and audiovisual documents (films, sound and video recordings, television and radio programmes). The 2017 theme of the day selected by UNESCO is “Discover, remember and share”. Observance of day seeks to raise general awareness to preserve and safeguard important audiovisual material for future generations and calls to take urgent measures to conserve this heritage and ensure it remains accessible to public and to future generations. Background: A proposal to commemorate World Day for Audiovisual Heritage was approved at UNESCO general conference in 2005. It was observed for the first time in October 27, 2007. The main objectives of designating 27 October as World Day for Audiovisual Heritage are raising public awareness of the need for preservation, providing opportunities to celebrate specific local, national or international aspects of the heritage, highlighting accessibility of archives, attracting media attention to heritage issues, raising the cultural status of audiovisual heritage ad highlighting audiovisual heritage in danger especially in developing countries.

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