W.B.C.S Current Affairs 01 September 2018 to 09 September 2018

The Importance of Current Affairs in W.B.C.S examinations is immense.Success inW.B.C.S  Prelims and W.B.C.S Mains Exam is mainly subjected to how well an aspirant is aware of the important current affairs. Preparation of current affairs for W.B.C.S is the key to unlock the exam.1) Union Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD has officially decided to participate in Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) after gap of nine years. It will send team of officers to Paris to negotiate India’s terms of participation in PISA 2021. Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA): PISA is assessment test for 15-year-olds, organised every three years by Organisation for Economic Cooperation Development (OECD), Paris, France. It was started in 2000 with about 43 states participating, and its latest edition in 2015 saw participation from 73 countries including China and Vietnam. PISA measures student performance in mathematics, reading, and science and even innovative subjects like collaborative problem-solving and money literacy. The test is designed by education experts around the world. It assess how students apply what they have learnt to real-world problems. PISA test results give insight into education systems around the world. The results are shown as a national mean score and not shown individually. Its objective is not to rank countries, but to see how education system can be improved. Countries willing to participate in PISA choose kids from different regions to represent sample of 15-year-olds in their country. In 2012 PISA test, schools of Shanghai in China topped reading, mathematics and science test, followed closely by Singapore. In 2015, Singapore, Japan and Estonia were ranked as top three countries, in that order. India’s boycott of PISA: India had made its debut in PISA in 2009 with 16000 students from 400 schools across Tamil Nadu and Himachal Pradesh. However, students had performed miserably in 2009 test and India was placed at 72nd among 74 participating countries. Government had blamed “out of context” questions for the poor results in 2009 and decided it won’t participate in 2012 and 2015. Revision of Boycott decision: In 2016, HRD Ministry had revisited this decision and Kendriya Vidyalaya Sangathan (KVS) had set up committee to review matter and submitted its report in December 2016. The report recommended for participation in test in 2018. Similar recommendation was made in 2017 by group of secretaries on education constituted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. However, India had missed the application deadline for 2018 cycle of PISA test. PISA 2021: PISA 2021 test is likely to be administered in schools in Union Territory of Chandigarh. Apart from schools in Chandigarh, HRD Ministry also suggested that all Kendriya Vidyalayas (KVs) and Navodaya Vidyalayas (NVs), funded and run by Centre, shall take the test. Chandigarh was selected for its compact area, students are taught in Hindi and English (Government wants to keep number of languages in which test has to be administere) to minimum). Chandigarh has record of performing well in learning assessments.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 01 September 2018 to 09 September 2018.

2) Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh was unanimously re-elected as World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for South-East Asia for another five-year term beginning February 2019. She was reelected by 11 member states of the Region during elections held at ongoing Regional Committee meeting of WHO South-East Asia. With this, India has retained top WHO position in South-East Asia Region. Dr. Poonam Khetrapal Singh: She had served as civil servant in India as member of Indian Administrative Services for over two decades. She was the Health Secretary of Punjab. Dr Khetrapal Singh’s ongoing first term as WHO Regional Director South-East Asia had started on 1 February 2014. It had made her first woman to have been elected to position of Regional Director. Prior to her WHO career, she had served in health sector in various senior positions during her stint in IAS and in World Bank. She also worked in WHO Director-General’s cabinet in Geneva, as Executive Director of Sustainable Development and Healthy Environments in WHO headquarters and was Deputy Regional Director WHO South-East Asia Region from 2000-2013. WHO South East Asia Region: It was established in 1948 and was the first of its six regions. It has 11 Member States: Bangladesh, Bhutan, Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, India, Indonesia, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Timor-Leste. It provides leadership on health matters, articulates evidence-based policy options, provides technical support to countries and monitors health trends in the region.

3) The third ASEM (Asia-Europe Meeting) Conference on ‘Global Ageing and Human Rights of Older Persons’ was held in Seoul, capital of South Korea. It was jointly organised by South Korea and National Human Rights Commission of Korea. Key Facts: The 3-day Conference was attended by International Institutions including United Nations, Regional Institutions such as UNESCAP, UNECE, European Union (EU), ASEAN, GANHRI and also International NGOs, Experts etc. Indian delegation was led by Union Minister of Social Justice and Empowerment Thaawarchand Gehlot. The Conference reaffirmed universal value of human rights of older persons, shared information on discrimination against elderly and exemplary cases of long-term and palliative care in Asia and Europe. It also discussed operation and tasks of ASEM Global Ageing Centre as implementing institution for mutual cooperation among ASEM members for protection and promotion of human rights of older persons. The experience gained from this Conference will be beneficial for Policy formulation and implementation for welfare of senior citizens. Asia-Europe Meeting Summit (ASEM): ASEM is informal process of dialogue and cooperation that brings 53 entities – including 51 countries (including India) from Asia and Europe and two regional bodies European Union (EU) and ASEAN. It was officially established in March 1996 at the first summit in Bangkok, Thailand. ASEM represents around 62.3% of the world’s population, 57.2% of the global GDP and almost 60% of the world’s trade. The dialogue addresses political, economic and cultural issues between the two regions. It also seeks to strengthen relationship between the two regions in a spirit of mutual respect and equal partnership.

4) Union Cabinet decided to indefinitely extended Atal Pension Scheme, which had lapsed in August 2018. It also has broadened its scope by keeping it open-ended. The extension was given by taking into consideration of mass participation. New Provisions: To further incentivize people’s participation in the scheme, age criterion for participation has been revised. Earlier, people of age 18 to 60 years were entitled to enroll in this scheme. But now it has been relaxed further to 65 years, taking into consideration rise in average age-expectancy, Henceforth the scheme will expand its focus to target individuals, instead of households. Moreover, all accounts opened after August 2018 will have accident insurance limit of Rs 2 lakh, double than earlier Rs 1 lakh limit. The overdraft facility of the scheme was also increased from Rs 5,000 to Rs 10,000. Atal Pension Yojana (APY): It is a social security scheme that aims to provide affordable universal access to essential social security protection to unorganized work force of country, which constitute more than 85% of the workforce. It had replaced earlier government-backed pension Swavalamban scheme targeted at the unorganised sector. It was launched in June 2015. It is available to all citizens of India in age group of 18-40 years (making minimum period of contribution by subscriber is 20 years). There is no exit to scheme before maturity age. In case of death of subscriber, spouse of subscriber is entitled for same amount of pension till his or her death.

5) Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved establishment and operationalization of permanent campus of seven new Indian Institutes of Management (IIMs). These IIMs will be established at Amritsar (Punjab), Bodh Gaya (Bihar), Nagpur (Maharashtra), Sambalpur (Odisha), Sirmaur (Himachal Pradesh), Vishakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) and Jammu. Key Facts: These IIMs were established in the year 2015-16/2016-17 and are presently functioning from transit campuses. Each of these IIMs will construct area of 60384 Sqm, which will have complete infrastructural facilities for 600 students. The construction of permanent campus of these IIMs will be completed by June, 2021. With this, all 20 IIMs will have their own permanent campuses. IIMs are country’s premier institutions imparting best quality education in management and are recognized as world-class management Institutions and Centres of Excellence. They provide education to students to enable them to become professional managers and they will also promote economic and industrial development of the country.

6) India and Bulgaria have signed four MoUs in fields of Civil Nuclear cooperation, investment, Tourism and establishment of Hindi chair at Sofia University. Both countries also signed program of Cooperation on science and Technology. These agreements were signed after President Ramnath Kovind and his Bulgarian counterpart Rumen Radev held talks in Sofia, capital of Bulgaria. President Ram Nath Kovind visited Bulgaria on the second leg of his three-nation visit (Cyprus, Bulgaria and Czech Republic) to Europe to continue India’s high-level engagements with the European countries. President Kovind was fifth Indian President to visit Bulgaria and first in 15 years. Key Highlights of President’s visit: India called for collaboration with Bulgaria in fields of innovation and R&D as it can offer exciting eco system for it. It was also held that India and Bulgaria can cooperate in devising technologies to clean rivers and to explore potential of blue economy. Both countries also have agreed to substantially upgrade their economic partnership in line with depth of robust political relations. Bulgaria can become key partner for India in defence sector under Make In India programme and in technology intensive sectors such as IT, logistics and infrastructure under Digital India and Smart Cities programmes of the Government. Bulgaria supported India on issues like entry into Nuclear Suppliers Group and permanent membership of UN Security council.

7) State-run Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has bagged order worth Rs. 9,200 crore for supply of seven Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM) systems to Indian Navy. In this regard, it has entered into a contract with Mazagon Dock Limited (MDL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE). The LRSAM will be fitted onboard seven ships to be built by these two shipbuilders. This was highest-ever single value order bagged by BEL. This contract has pushed order book of BEL beyond Rs 50,000 crore for the first time in single financial year, Long Range Surface-to-Air Missile (LRSAM): LRSAM has long-range engagement capability to penetrate deep water and land to intercept all types of aerial targets like subsonic and supersonic missiles, fighter aircraft, maritime patrolling aircraft (MPA), helicopter and sea skimming missiles. It is capable of countering newest generation anti-ship missiles. Indian Navy has decided to equip its all naval ships such as INS Kolkata, INS Kochi, and INS Chennai guided missile destroyers with Barak 8 LRSAM for air and missile defense. Barak 8 LRSAM has been jointly developed by DRDO and IAI, Israel to be launched from ship. It possesses high degree of maneuverability at target interception range. It has maximum speed of Mach 2 with maximum operational range of 70 km (which has been increased to 100 km). Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL): BEL is state-owned leading defence electronics company. It is one of nine PSUs under the Union Ministry of Defence of India. It has been accorded Navratna status. It is headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka. BEL is engaged in design, manufacture and supply of state-of-the-art radars like weapon locating radar and battle field surveillance radar, communication systems, naval systems, electronic warfare systems, missile systems, tank electronics and gun/weapon systems, coastal surveillance system etc for armed forces.

8) Ministry of Tourism sanctioned Malanad Malabar Cruise Tourism Project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme for development of rural circuit in Kerala. Under this project, Ministry of Tourism will be developing three cruises with budget of Rs. 80.37 crores. Three approved cruise are: Malabari Cuisine and Culinary Cruise (Muthappan Cruise): It will start from Valapattanam and cover distance of 40 km to reach Munambu Kadavu in Valapattanam River. Valapattanam River- Theyyam Cruise: It will begin from Valapattanam and will go up to Pazhayangadi in Valapattanam River. Mangrove Cruise: It will be running on Kuppam River covering distance of 16 Km from Pazhayangadi to Kuppam. The project will be focusing on development of water-based thematic cruise experiences in and around Valapattanam and Kuppam Rivers of Kannur District to tap potential of water tourism of Kerala. The cruises under it will be operated under Public Private Partnership (PPP) model. Ministry of Tourism will provide funds for development of basic infrastructure facilities such as passenger terminals, boat terminals, jetties, boat race gallery, food courts, performance areas, bio toilets, wifi facility, drinking water facilities, floating markets for local produce among others. Swadesh Darshan Scheme: The scheme was launched by Union Tourism Ministry with an objective to develop theme-based tourist circuits in the country. These tourist circuits will be developed on principles of high tourist value, competitiveness and sustainability in an integrated manner. Under this scheme, 13 thematic circuits have been identified for development. They are Buddhist Circuit, North-East India Circuit, Coastal Circuit, Himalayan Circuit, Krishna Circuit, Desert Circuit, Eco Circuit, Wildlife Circuit, Tribal Circuit, Rural Circuit, Spiritual Circuit, Ramayana Circuit and Heritage Circuit. It is 100% centrally funded scheme for the project components undertaken for public funding. It also has provision for leveraging voluntary funding under Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of Central Public Sector Undertakings and corporate sector. The funding of projects under this scheme varies from state to state. It is finalised on basis of detailed project reports prepared by Programme Management Consultant (PMC) which is national level consultant for implementing the scheme.

9) Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully carried out first ever midair refuelling of indigenously developed light combat aircraft (LCA) Tejas. The midair refuelling test conducted involved dry linkup, meaning no fuel was actually transferred between IAF Il-78 tanker and Tejas fighter jet through its air-to-air refuelling probe. Key Facts: For this test, Russian-built IL-78 MKI tanker was launched from IAF’s base in Agra while LCA Tejas fighter was launched from Gwalior. Nine more tests will be held which will also include wet tests where actual transfer of fuel takes place from IAF tanker to fighter jet. The success of these midair refuelling trials will be major leap for indigenous fighter which will help in enhancing its mission capability by increasing its range and payload. . The ability to carry out air-to-air refuelling is also one of critical requirements for LCA Tejas to achieve final operational clearance . LCA Tejas: LCA Tejas is lightweight single-seat multi-role jet fighter, powered by single engine. It has tailess and compound delta wing design made entirely of composite structures. It is pegged as world’s smallest and lightest supersonic fighter aircraft in its class. It is first advanced fly-by-wire Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) designed, developed and manufactured indigenously by state owned Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) and Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) as part of LCA programme, started in 1980s to replace India’s ageing MiG-21 fighters. It was named ‘Tejas’, which means ‘radiance’, by former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. It took total of 20 years from 1993 to 2013 for building this aircraft. Its maiden flight took place in 2001. Advance Features: LCA Tejas is equipped with quadruplex digital fly-by-wire flight control system to ease handling by the pilot. It also has digital computer-based attack system and autopilot mode. It is also equipped with satellite-aided Inertial Navigation System. Stealth Features: It has many features of stealth fighter aircraft. Its radar cross section is very less compared to other aircrafts like MiG-29, F-16 due to its small size and extensive usage of carbon composits. It incorporates glass cockpit in which pilot is feed with real time information. It also has open architecture software for avionics which can be easily updated as and when required. Range: It has limited reach of little over 400-km and will be mainly used for close air-to-ground operations (unlike Russian-origin Sukhoi-30MKIs or Rafale which have deep strike capability into enemy territory due to their long range). Weaponry: It can fire air-to-air missiles, carry bombs and precision guided ammunition.DRDO has successfully tested fired Tejas with different kinds of weaponry and missiles including R-73 air-to-air missile, bomb dropping (including laser guided bombs). In future, DRDO also plans test firing of indigenous Astra missile and guns from the Tejas. Operations: LCA Tejas had commenced operations from Sulur Air Force Station in Tamil Nadu in July 2018, two years after it was formally inducted into IAF. The fighter jet is part of ‘Flying Daggers’ of 45 Squadron of IAF. Southern Air Command based in Kerala capital Thiruvananthapuram has been entrusted with responsibility of integrating fighter aircraft in IAF’s concept of operations.

10) Japanese researchers from Shizuoka University will conduct world’s first experiment to test small prototype of space elevator in space by using two mini satellites. The test equipment will be launched by Japan’s space agency on board of H-2B rocket from southern island of Tanegashima. Key Facts: In this experiment, two ultra-small cubic satellites developed by Shizuoka University Faculty of Engineering will be used for demonstration of space elevator technology. Each satellite measures 10 centimeters each side. Roughly 10-meter-long steel cable will be employed to connect twin satellites. The pair of satellites will be released from International Space Station (ISS) and container acting like elevator car will be moved on cable connecting satellites using motor. The movement of motorised elevator box will be monitored with cameras in the satellites. Space elevator: It is proposed type of planet-to-space transportation system. Its components mainly are cable (also called tether) anchored to surface of planet and extending into space. It will permit vehicles to travel along cable from planetary surface, such as Earth’s, directly into space or orbit, without use of large rockets. The idea of space elevator was first proposed in 1895 by Russian scientist Konstantin Tsiolkovsky after he saw Eiffel Tower in Paris and later it was revisited nearly century later in novel by Arthur C. Clarke. The one end of cable of space elevator will be attached near to surface and the other end in space beyond geostationary orbit (35,786 km altitude). The competing forces of gravity, which is stronger at lower end and outward or upward centrifugal force, which is stronger at upper end, will result in the cable being held up, under tension, and stationary over single position on Earth. Once cable (tether) is deployed at fixed position, climbers can repeatedly climb it to venture into space by mechanical means, releasing their cargo to orbit. Climbers also can descend ether to return cargo to surface from orbit.

11) Union Ministry of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation has prepared draft Bill which proposes setting up armed Ganga Protection Corps (GPC) to arrest any person who has committed offence of polluting River Ganga punishable under this law. The Bill calls for National Ganga Council and National Ganga Rejuvenation Authority to enforce law and protect Ganga River. Key Features of this Bill: Cognizable offences marked in this Bill: Construction activities causing obstruction in river, withdrawal of ground water for industrial or commercial consumption from land fronting river and its tributaries, commercial fishing or aqua culture in river and its tributaries, discharging untreated or treated sewage into the river. Ganga Protection Corps (GPC): The draft Bill envisages GPC as armed force constituted and maintained by Central government. It gives powers to armed GPC personnel to arrest any person who has committed offence punishable under this Act and take such person in custody to the nearest police station. For this GPC will follow Code of Criminal Procedure (CrCP).GPC personnel will be provided by Ministry of Home Affairs and will be deployed by National Ganga Rejuvenation Authority. This is almost similar provisions as in the Environment Protection Act 1986, but creation of GPC is new. Punishment: The draft Bill proposes imprisonment for 2 years or fine of Rs 2 lakh or both for commercial fishing or aqua culture activities in Ganga and any of its tributaries. Similarly, it provides two-year imprisonment or fine up to Rs 50 lakh or both for construction of permanent structure for residential, commercial and residential purposes in active flood plain area of Ganga River. It proposes 5 year prison term or fine of Rs. 50,000 per day or both for person or municipal authority which establishes or takes any steps to set up any industrial or residential or commercial premises or structure near Ganga which may result in discharge of any sewage or trade effluent into river. Background: Present environmental laws are not adequate to restore and protect Ganga River. To overcome it,Government had constituted committee under retired judge of Allahabad High Court Justice Girdhar Malviya in July 2016. It had submitted draft Bill named The National River Ganga (Rejuvenation, Protection and Management) Bill, 2017. Subsequently, four-member committee was also set up by Ministry to examine the Bill. Earlier in 1998, Justice Malviya, as judge of Allahabad High Court had called for River Police to protect the Ganga.

12) According to recent study published in Lancet Global Health journal, at least 34% of India’s population is insufficiently active. The levels of insufficient activity were higher among women at 48%, while prevalence was 22 %among men. The study was undertaken by researchers from World Health Organisation (WHO). It was based on self-reported activity levels, including activity at work and at home, for transport, and during leisure time in adults aged 18 years and older from 358 population-based surveys in 168 countries. Key Findings of Study: Globally, more than 1.4 billion adults are at risk of diseases from not doing enough physical activity as around one in three women (32%) and one in four men (23%) do not do enough physical activity to stay healthy. Levels of insufficient physical activity are more than twice as high in high income countries compared with low income countries. The highest rates of insufficient activity in 2016 were found in adults in Kuwait, American Samoa, Saudi Arabia and Iraq, where more than half of all adults were insufficiently active. Comparatively, around 40% of adults in United States, 36% in UK and 14% in China were insufficiently active. India was ranked 52nd (with 1 being the most inactive, and 168 being the most active) among 168 countries. Insufficient physical activity puts people at greater risk of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, dementia, and some cancers. If current trends continue, 2025 global activity target of 10% relative reduction in insufficient physical activity will not be met. Solutions: Cities needed to be more walk friendly and more opportunities for physical activity in public open spaces and parks in workplaces need to be created. The recommended levels of physical activity are at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week. It is also necessary to promote and improve women’s access to opportunities that are safe, affordable and culturally acceptable to address inequalities in physical activity levels between men and women. WHO Global Action Plan on Physical Activity (2018-30) provides selection of policy options targeting different settings and population groups that can be adapted and tailored to local contexts in all countries.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 01 September 2018 to 09 September 2018.

13) Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) will soon convene special meeting of Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC) to decide on field-trial approvals for transgenic mustard DMH-11 developed by University of Delhi’s Centre for Genetic Manipulation of Crop Plants (CGMCP). Background: CGMCP had earlier applied to grow transgenic mustard (DMH-11) in plots in Delhi and Punjab to test plant’s effects on honeybees after GEAC had initially cleared GM crop for commercial cultivation. But later GEAC had backtracked and demanded more tests of transgenic mustard and asked for additional data on honeybees and other pollinators and on soil microbial diversity after some members objected to use of unapproved pesticides/herbicides including banned Endosulfan in project proposal. Some members also had voiced objections over lack of time to examine field safety protocol which specifies what measures can be undertaken in case of pest attack. GM Mustard DMH-11: DMH (Dhara Mustard Hybrid)-11 is genetically modified variety of Herbicide Tolerant (HT) mustard. It was developed by team of scientists from Delhi University’s CGMCP led by former Vice-Chancellor Deepak Pental under Government sponsored project. It was created by using “barnase/barstar” technology for genetic modification by adding genes from soil bacterium that makes mustard self-pollinating plant. It contains three genes viz. Bar gene, Barnase and Barstar sourced from soil bacterium. The bar gene had made plant resistant to herbicide named Basta. Genetic Engineering Appraisal Committee (GEAC): GEAC is apex body under Environment Ministry for regulating manufacturing, use, import, export and storage of hazardous micro-organisms or genetically engineered organisms (GMOs) and cells in the country. It is also responsible for giving technical approval of proposals relating to release of GMOs and products including experimental field trials.

14) Cyient Solutions & Systems Pvt. Ltd has bagged order from Indian Army to supply SpyLite mini UAV (unmanned aerial vehicle) systems for high altitude aerial surveillance. Cyient Solutions & Systems Pvt. Ltd is joint venture between IT firm Cyient and BlueBird Aero Systems of Israel. SpyLite mini UAV: SpyLite is an advanced, combat-proven, electric fully autonomous mini unmanned aerial system. It is optimized to offer covert, extended range real-time visual intelligence. It is fully autonomous system from launch to accurate parachute recovery. It has capability to deliver enhanced reliability even in severe weather conditions, assuring long endurance and high operational availability. SpyLite has endurance of 4-5 hours and maximum flight ceiling of 30,000 feet, which makes it ideal for supporting Indian Army operations along border with China as well as on Siachen glacier. Using high-end payloads, it can deliver high-quality day and night videos. It also has low visual and acoustic signature which gives it edge to conduct covert operations.

15) American security and aerospace giant Lockheed Martin has entered into an agreement with Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) to manufacture wings of its F-16 fighter jets in India. Producing F-16 wings in India will support Central Government’s flagship ‘Make in India’ programme and strengthen Lockheed Martin’ strategic partnership with TASL. Key Facts: Lockheed Martin and TASL joint venture is bidding for contract to supply Indian air force (IAF) with 114 combat planes, estimated at more than $15 billion which must be all manufactured locally under Make in India programme. Lockheed has offered to move its entire F-16 manufacturing base to India. The proposed production of F-16 wings in India is not contingent upon company winning order from IAF for these planes. It will help to push local manufacturing that will generate jobs and also end armed forces dependence on imports. Lockhead Martin and TASL already have entered into partnership for C-130J [Super Hercules airlifter] and S-92 [helicopter].

16) International Women Entrepreneurs Summit 2018 was held in Kathmandu, capital of Nepal from September 3 to 5, 2018. The summit was inaugurated by Vice President of Nepal Nanda Bahadur Pun. The theme of 3-day summit was “Equality begins with Economic Empowerment”. It was organised by the South Asian Women Development Forum. International Women Entrepreneurs Summit 2018: The main objective of the summit was to bring together achievers, women business leaders, professionals, international service providers, resource organizations, experts, government representatives and other stakeholders with a focus on innovative economic transformation through discussions and collaborations. It had seen participation of delegates from SAARC, ASEAN, EU, Africa, Arab countries and China. South Asian Women Development Forum (SAWDF): SAWDF is an autonomous, nonprofit organization based in Kathmandu, Nepal. It was granted the status of SAARC Recognized Body by 36th Session of SAARC Council Ministers at 18th SAARC Summit held in Kathmandu in 2014. It is first SAARC Recognized Body organisation working on women entrepreneurs issues. It represents national women entrepreneurs’ associations or organizations, institutions working towards economic issues of women entrepreneurs in SAARC Region. Its membership is based on organizations with extensive work around women’s entrepreneurship.

17) Dr Arif ur Rehman Alvi (69) was elected as 13th President of Pakistan. He is close ally of Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan and one of founding members of ruling Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. He will take oath of office of President on September 9, 2018. Background: Dr Alvi had defeated Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) candidate Aitzaz Ahsan and Pakistan Muslim League-N nominee Maulana Fazl ur Rehman in three-way contest to become President. Of the 430 votes cast through secret ballot in National Assembly and Senate, Dr. Alvi had received 212 votes followed by Mr. Rehman 131 and Mr. Ahsan 81. Six votes were rejected. Dr Arif ur Rehman Alvi: He was born in Karachi in 1947 where his father settled after partition. His father Dr Habib ur Rehman Elahi Alvi was dentist to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru before partition. He had inherited profession of dentist from his father. His father was also connected with Jinnah family. Prior to his political career, Dr Alvi was dentist by profession. Dr. Alvi had started his political career about five decades ago when he was student of de’Montmonrency College of Dentistry in Lahore. He had joined Imran Khan’s PTI as its founding member in 1996. He was Secretary-General of party from 2006 till 2013. In 2013 he was elected as Member of National Assembly from Constituency NA-250 Karachi and was re-elected in July 2018. He also had served as President of Pakistan Dental Association. He was also Chairman of first Pakistan International Dental Conference in 1981 and also elected Chairman of 28th Asia Pacific Dental Congress. In 2006, he was elected as President of Asia Pacific Dental Federation. In 2007, he was elected as Councillor of FDI World Dental Federation, this was for first time Pakistani was elected. Note: Dr Alvi will be third Pakistani president to have India connection prior to partition. His predecessors Mamnoon Hussain’s family came from Agra and Pervez Musharraf’s parents had migrated to Pakistan from New Delhi.

18) Asia Index Pvt Ltd has launched S&P BSE Private Banks Index to measure the performance of private banks. Asia Index Pvt Ltd is a joint venture between S&P Dow Jones Indices and BSE Ltd. S&P BSE Private Banks Index: This index is designed to provide market participants with transparent and rules-based benchmark that measures performance of private banks listed in India. It draws from constituents of S&P BSE Finance Index. Only common stocks classified as banks by BSE Sector Classification model and that are not classified under BSE scrip category as Public Sector Undertaking (PSU) are eligible for this index. The index will be calculated in Indian Rupees and US Dollar in real-time by BSE, Asia’s oldest exchange.

19) The National Nutrition Month (Rashtriya Poshan Maah) is being celebrated across the country in September 2018 to mark fight against malnutrition. Union Ministry of Women and Child Development are spearheading various programmes during this month to spread broad awareness on issues related to malnutrition like stunting, under-nutrition, anaemia and low birth weight in children. Key Facts: The National Nutrition Month will also focus on adolescent girls, pregnant women and lactating mothers to eliminate the deficiencies prevailing in the Health sector. Ministry of Women and Child Development is working on eight focused themes like optimal breast feeding, growth monitoring, food fortification and girls’ education, hygiene and sanitation, diet and marriage at right age etc. to achieve improvement in nutritional status of children, adolescent girls, pregnant women and lactating mothers. It is also trying to reach about 11 crore women and children during this month through various grass-root activities, with the convergence of different ministries. Background: The decision to celebrate September as the National Nutrition Month every year was taken during the second meeting of National Council on India’s Nutrition Challenges under Poshan Abhiyaan (Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition) held in July 2018. POSHAN Abhiyaan- the National Nutrition Mission was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March 2018 in Jhunjhunu, Rajasthan with aim to bring down stunting of children in age group of 0-6 years from 38% to 25% by 2022.

20) Justice Ranjan Gogoi will be become 46th Chief Justice of India succeeding incumbent Dipak Misra. His name was recommended incumbent CJI Dipak Misra by following convention of recommending next senior most Supreme Court judge. With this, Justice Ranjan Gogoi will become first CJI from north-eastern region. He will have tenure of about 13 months, from October 3, 2018 till his retirement on November 17, 2019. Justice Ranjan Gogoi: Justice Gogoi was born on November 18, 1954. He is a native of Assam and is son of former Assam Chief Minister Keshab Chandra Gogoi. He had joined Bar in 1978 and practiced mainly in Gauhati High Court. He was appointed as permanent judge of High Court in February 2001. He was transferred to Punjab and Haryana High Court in September 2010 and was appointed its Chief Justice in February 2011. He was elevated to the Supreme Court in April 2012. In Supreme Court, Justice Gogoi had led important benches that have dealt largely with issue of corruption in politics and public life. He has led apex court bench which ordered Centre to set up special courts to exclusively try MPs and MLAs as means to de-criminalise politics. His Bench is also monitoring progress made by government in appointment of anti-corruption ombudsman Lokpal. Justice Gogoi was one of the four most senior Supreme Court judges (along with Justices J Chelameswar, M B Lokur and Kurian Joseph) who held January 12, 2018 press conference bringing up issue of selective assignment of sensitive cases by recent CJIs to certain judges in the Supreme Court.

21) Union Ministry of Commerce & Industry launched Coffee Connect-India coffee field force app and Coffee KrishiTharanga – digital mobile extension services project for coffee stakeholders. These initiatives were developed by Coffee Board of India for the overall technological advancement of the coffee sector and value chain. Coffee Connect mobile app: The application has been developed to ease the work of field functionaries and to improve the work efficiency. It provides solution by harnessing power of mobility comprising latest technology in easing whole process of field activities like digitization of coffee growers and estates with geo tagging, collecting pllantation details. It will also help in enhancing transparency in activities of extension officers and officials, transparency in subsidy disbursement and real time report generation. It has been developed by Coffee Board of India in association with National Institute for Smart Government (NISG). Coffee KrishiTharanga Project: It is IVR based digital mobile extension service jointly developed by Coffee Board and Precision Agriculture for Development India Foundation (PADIF). It is aimed at providing customised information and services to increase productivity, profitability, and environmental sustainability. The customised services are two ways, 24 by 7 service supports. It is also aimed at maximising reach of Board’s services in limited time available. It has been Coffee production in India: India is 6th largest coffee producer in the world with 4% share after Brazil, Vietnam, Colombia, Indonesia and Ethiopia. In India, coffee is cultivated in India in about 4.54 lakh hectares by 3.66 lakh coffee farmers and 98% of them are small farmers. Karnataka (54%), Kerala (19%) and Tamil Nadu (8%) are largest coffee producing states. India accounts for only 4-5% of world’s coffee output, but exports 70-80% of its produce. Italy, Russia and Germany are the top three buyers of Indian coffee. In India, two coffee varieties robusta (or Coffea canephora) and Coffea arabica are grown on large scale. Coffee Board of India: Coffee Board of India is an autonomous body, functioning under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Government of India. It was set up under an Act of Parliament in 1942. It focuses on research, development, extension, quality upgradation, market information, and the domestic and external promotion of Coffees of India.

22) India, Kazakhstan joint army exercise KAZIND will be conducted between Indian and Kazakhstan Army in Otar region, Kazakhstan from 10 to 23 September 2018. This will be third joint military exercise between two countries which have history of extensive cooperation in defence arena. The second edition of the exercise was held in India in 2017. KAZIND 2018: The aim of the exercise is to build and promote bilateral army to army relations and exchange skills and experiences between armies of both countries. The exercise will also serve as platform for exchange of drills and procedures. It will also follow graduated continuum from orientation to full scale mock exercise win aim of achieving optimum integration among two armies through enhanced mutual comprehension of each other’s tactics, techniques and procedures. It will also set stage for greater defence cooperation and consequently manifest in stronger ties between two countries. Kazakhstan Army will also get vast knowledge from experience and expertise of Indian troops in counter insurgency operations.

23) Union Territory of Puducherry has bagged top position in National Clean School Award after seven schools from Puducherry were awarded for cleanliness. As many as 52 schools from across the country were bestowed with National Clean School Award in recognition of their efforts in carrying forward Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Key Facts: Tamil Nadu bagged second position in National Clean School Award. The third position was shared by Andhra Pradesh and Gujarat. Fourth position was shared by Jharkhand, Haryana, Maharashtra and Rajasthan. Three schools from each state made it for the award. National Clean School Award ranking and the list were issued by Union Ministry of Human Resource Development and was prepared by National Institute of Cleanliness Education and Research (NICER).

24) The 6th East Asia Summit-Economic Ministers’ Meeting (EAS-EMM) and 15th India-ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting (AEM) was held in Singapore. Singapore is currently holding the Chair of Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). 6th EAS-EMM: It was attended by Economic Ministers from 10 ASEAN countries and their 8 dialogue partners – Australia, China, India, Japan, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Russia and United States. The meeting recognized importance of ongoing work to maximize opportunities of and address challenges presented by digital economy and rise of regional and global value chains as part of their efforts to promote economic growth and integration in the region. EAS-EMM forum expressed hope that economic linkages among EAS members will enable them to address challenges due to disruptions in macro-economy that could affect overall market sentiments and global growth. It also took note of increasing importance of trade and investment relations among the EAS economies. It also agreed to importance of keeping markets open and fair as well as improving transparency and predictability of business environment. 15th India-ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting (AEM): The 6th EAS–EMM was followed by the 15th India-ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting. It was co-chaired by Singapore’s Minister for Trade and Industry Chan Chun Sing and India’s Minister of Commerce and Industry Suresh Prabhu,. The meeting attended by Economic Ministers from 10 ASEAN countries. It took stock of current level of trade and economic engagement between India and ASEAN. It also reaffirmed commitment to further strengthen ASEAN-India economic relations. ASEAN has emerged as second largest trade partner of India in 2017-18 with bilateral trade valued at US $81.33 billion, comprising 10.58% of India’s total trade with the world.

25) NITI Aayog constituted group of experts has submitted report titled ‘Inventory and Revival of Springs in the Himalayas for Water Security.’ It has mentioned that nearly 30% of springs crucial to water security of people are drying and 50% have reported reduced discharge. Report Highlights: Challenges: Almost half of perennial springs in Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) have already dried up or have become seasonal. Tens of thousands of villages in this region are currently facing acute water shortage for drinking and other domestic purposes. Almost 60% of low-discharge springs that provided water to small habitations in Himalayan region have reported clear decline during the last couple of decades Dedicated mission: It has urged government to set up dedicated mission to salvage and revive spring water systems in Himalayan States, given their vital importance as source of water for both drinking and irrigation for the region’s inhabitants. Key Message: It calls for spring mapping and revival, using 8 steps protocol should be taken up across Himalayan states in phased manner, applying carrying capacity concept to all major tourist destinations and implementing and monitoring tourism sector. It calls for setting up of Mission on Spring Water Management in Himalayas. 8-year programme: It also has mooted 8-year programme to overhaul spring water management. This includes preparing digital atlas of country’s springsheds, training para-hydrogeologists who could lead grassroots conservation and introducing Spring Health Card. Water sources distribution: Meghalaya with 3,810 villages with springs has highest number of these water sources in Eastern Himalayan States. Sikkim had greatest density with 94% of its villages having spring. In Western Himalayas, Jammu & Kashmir had both highest number of villages with springs at 3,313 and greatest density of 50.6%. Background: Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) spans across states across country’s north and northeast and is home to about 50 million people who are heavily reliant on natural groundwater sources such as perennial springs. These water sources are under increasing threat from urbanisation caused by constant push for development and climate change. The extent of crisis plaguing Himalayan region was recently evident when more than half dozen districts of Himachal Pradesh and State capital Shimla had faced severe drinking water crisis in May 2018 after major water sources either went fully or partially dry.

26) Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has released draft Charter of Patients’ Rights prepared by National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). Ministry plans to implement the Charter of Patients’ Rights through State governments for provision of proper health care by clinical establishments. This charter is expected to act as guidance document for Union Government and State Governments to formulate concrete mechanisms so that Patients’ Rights are given adequate protection and operational mechanisms are set up to make these rights functional and enforceable by law. Draft Charter of Patients’ Rights: The draft charter is inspired by international charters and is guided by national level provisions with objective of consolidating comprehensive document on patients’ rights in India. It provides patients with right to emergency medical care and informed consent, right to non-discrimination, seek a second opinion and choose alternative treatment options, if available. It also includes 17 rights with description and draws upon all relevant provisions. Need Charter of Patients’ Rights: There is no consolidated uniform document on patients’ rights that can be followed by all states uniformly. Some states have adopted National Clinical Establishments Act, 2010 and certain others have enacted their own State-level legislations to regulate hospitals. Right to non-discrimination in medical treatment is important right. Every patient has right to receive treatment without any discrimination based on his or her illnesses or conditions, including HIV status or other health condition, religion, caste, ethnicity or sexual orientation.

27) Ukraine has launched annual joint military exercise named Rapid Trident with United States and other NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) member countries. The exercise will place in western Ukrainian village of Starychi from September 2 to 15, 2018. Its main goal is to practice countering armed aggression in conditions of the hybrid war. It is being conducted week before Russia holds its biggest military exercise Vostok-2018 since Cold War, in eastern part of the country and with participation of China and Mongolia. Rapid Trident Exercise 2018: The exercise is composed of multinational, brigade-level, computer-assisted command post exercise, that is ntegrated with battalion-level field training exercise, and platoon-level situational training exercise. It will see participation of around 2,200 soldiers (all having combat experience) from 14 countries including the UK, Canada, Georgia, Turkey, Poland and Germany. During this exercise, armored vehicles, aviation units and around 350 pieces of military equipment will be used. It will also for first time will see participation of Ukrainian Border Guard Service and National Guard troops.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 01 September 2018 to 09 September 2018.

28) India along with 23 other nations will be participating in major Indian ocean-wide tsunami mock exercise known as IOWave18. The exercise is being organized by Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission (IOC) of UNESCO. It will involve evacuation of thousands of people from coastal areas in over half a dozen states. IOWave18: The purpose of the exercise is to increase tsunami preparedness, evaluate response capabilities in each state and improve coordination throughout the region. It is also aimed at enhancing tsunami preparedness at the community level. The exercise will simulate Indian Ocean countries being put in tsunami warning situation and require National Tsunami Warning Centre (NTWC) i.e. National and Local Disaster Management Offices (NDMO/LDMO) to implement and test their communication links and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) at all levels of warning chain. In this exercises, Hyderabad based Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) will be nodal participating agency. It will be involved in evacuation of more than 1,25,000 people from coastal communities of Odisha, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Maharashtra, West Bengal, Gujarat, and Goa in this simulated tsunami warning situation. Background: IOC, the only UN body specialized in ocean science and services had coordinated in setting up of Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (IOTWMS) in the aftermath of December 26, 2004 tsunami. Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC), based out of Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS), Hyderabad. It is autonomous institution under Union Ministry of Earth Sciences. The state-of-the-art warning centre is operational since October 2007. It has all necessary computational and communication infrastructure for reception of real-time data from seismic and sea-level networks, tsunami modelling, as well as generation and dissemination of tsunami bulletins for entire Indian Ocean region (IOR).

29) India and Cyprus have signed two agreements on combating money laundering and cooperation in the field of environment. These agreements were signed after wide-ranging talks between President Ram Nath Kovind and his Cypriot counterpart Nicos Anastasiades in Nicosia (capital of Cyprus). President Kovind visited Cyprus on the first leg of his three-nation visit to Europe including Bulgaria and Czech Republic to continue India’s high-level engagements with European countries. Key Facts: The MoU on combating money laundering was signed between Financial Intelligence Unit, India, and Unit for Combating Money Laundering of Cyprus. This agreement will further strengthen institutional framework to facilitate investment cross-flows. India-Cyprus ties: Cyprus is the eighth largest foreign investor in India with a cumulative foreign direct investment of about $9 billion in areas such as financial leasing, stock exchange, auto manufacture, manufacturing industries, real estate, cargo handling, construction, shipping and logistics. The Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between both the countries was revised in 2016. Diplomatic ties between India and Cyprus were established in 1962. Cyprus got the support of India during its struggle for independence from British colonial rule. Bilateral trade between both the countries stood at EUR 76.5 million in 2015. The major commodities exported by India to Cyprus are organic chemicals, vehicles & accessories and iron & steel. India’s main imports are aluminium and its products, wood pulp, machinery, boilers, engines, and plastic.

30) Researchers from University of Melbourne, Australian have found that superbug resistant to all known antibiotics and can cause severe infections or even death is spreading undetected through hospital wards across the world. They have discovered three variants of multidrug-resistant superbug in bacteria known as Staphylococcus epidermidis in samples collected from 10 countries, including strains in Europe that cannot be controlled by any drug currently in the market. Key Facts: Scientists have found that bacteria known as Staphylococcus epidermidis is related to better-known and more deadly MRSA superbug. This bacterium is found naturally on human skin and most commonly infects elderly or patients who have had prosthetic materials implanted, such as catheters and joint replacements. It can be deadly, but it is usually in patients who already are very sick in hospital and can be quite hard to eradicate and the infections can be severe. Some strains of Staphylococcus epidermidis bug have made mall change in its DNA that led to resistance to two of most common antibiotics. These findings show urgent need for better understanding of how infections spread. Earlier, study had suggested some hospital superbugs are growing increasingly tolerant to alcohol-based disinfectants found in sanitisers and handwashes used on hospital wards.

31) Union Government has received Rs. 3,000 crore of additional tax from MNCs that have entered into advance pricing agreements (APAs) with it over last five years and also has eliminatedbig source of tax litigation. It was revealed in recently released annual report on advance pricing agreements (APAs) for FY18 by Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). Key Highlights of report: 219 APAs signed by CBDT has resulted in MNCs accepting extra income of Rs 10,000 crore, translating into tax of Rs 3,000 crore. Between FY06 and FY15, around Rs. 2.6 lakh crore were added by taxman to income of MNCs through what are called ‘transfer pricing adjustments’, and many of these have been settled by using APAs. The rate of completing APAs pacts has slowed down in FY18 compared to year ago. CBDT had signed 88 APAs in FY17 and it has now come down to 67 in FY18. One of the reasons for dip was increasing complexity of cases, which required more time for analysing relevant international transactions. Shortage of manpower at level of additional or joint commissioners and deputy or assistant commissioners in APA teams also has slowed down processing of applications. At the end of FY 17, there were 684 APA applications under process compared with 985 filed since launch of programme. Despite slowing, India has outperformed China in finalising APAs in last five years. Compared to its 219 APAs since FY14, China managed to sign only 139 APAs in 12 years between 2005 and 2016. Of 58 unilateral APAs entered into in FY 17, 40 have associate enterprise of Indian applicant based in US, followed by UK with 22 applications. Advance Pricing Agreement: APAs are primarily aimed at avoiding transfer pricing disputes arising from cross-border transactions undertaken by MNCs. Through these agreements, tax department and companies seek to resolve transfer pricing disputes in advance before the cross-border related party transaction actually takes place. Its provision was introduced in Income-tax Act, 1961 in 2012 and Rollback provisions to it were introduced in 2014. Benefits: APAs provide certainty to taxpayers in domain of transfer pricing by specifying methods of pricing and setting prices of international transactions in advance. It gives certainty to MNCs that agree on certain principles in valuation of their cross-border transactions. It also provides them with alternate dispute resolution mechanism with respect to transfer pricing. It helps in determining arm’s length price of international transactions in advance for max period of 5 future years. It also strengthens Government’s resolve of fostering non-adversarial tax regime. It also has significantly contributed towards improving ease of doing business in India and has been appreciated nationally and internationally for being able to address complex transfer pricing issues in a fair and transparent manner.

32) Union Ministry of Home Affairs has cleared proposal of Jharkhand Government to rename Nagar Untari town and railway station as Banshidhar Nagar, after Banshidhar Temple, which is dedicated to Krishna in Garhwa district of state. It has granted No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to Jharkhand Government after there were no adverse reports from Intelligence Bureau, Geological Survey of India (GSI), Department of Post, Ministry of Earth Sciences and Ministry of Railways for renaming Nagar Untari town and railway station as Banshidhar Nagar. Key Facts: The proposal was forwarded Jharkhand Government as part of its plant to include Banshidhar Nagar part of Krishna circuit and develop it as major tourist attraction under Swadesh Darshan Scheme. Under it, state government is planning to develop Nagar Untari as Banshidhar Nagar and model it on the lines of Mathura and Vrindavan in Uttar Pradesh. It is also examining proposals for tying-up with International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON) also for this. Background: Under Central government’s guidelines for renaming railway stations, villages, towns and cities, all state governments must obtain No-Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Union Home Ministry. Under this guidelines MHA had earlier approved renaming of Robertsgang railway station in Uttar Pradesh as Sonbhadra, and Mughalsarai junction, also in Uttar Pradesh as Pt. Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Junction after Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay.

33) Association of India (ISPAI) have signed MoU to make Internet safe and secure in India by securing routers which is vital for healthy internet infrastructure. The MoU will also see both organizations exchanging research information and training materials related to routing security which is vital to future and stability of the Internet. Key Facts: The partnership between Internet Society and ISPAI will also promote Mutually Agreed Norms for Routing Security (MANRS) which is global initiative to implement crucial fixes needed to reduce most common threats to internet’s routing system and safeguard enterprises and government from cyber threats. MANRS will provide simple and concrete steps for network operators that enable dramatically improved Internet security and reliability. By joining MANRS, participants commit to implement actions to address common challenges related to routing security such as filtering and anti-spoofing. The Internet Society: It is a non-profit organisation dedicated to ensuring open development, evolution and safe use of Internet worldwide. It was founded in 1992 and is headquartered in Virginia, US. It is open standards body which develops and promotes voluntary internet standards. It is governed by diverse board of trustees that is dedicated to ensuring that internet stays open, transparent and defined by the people who use it.

34) China has pledged $60 billion of financial assistance to Africa bolster industry, counter hunger, and enhance security in the continent. It was announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping in his inaugural address at third Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) held in Beijing. FOCAC is an official forum between China and all states in Africa (except Eswatini). It was started as Ministerial Conference in 2000 in Beijing and since then it is held triennially in China and Africa alternatively. 2018 FOCAC Highlights: Focal areas: Eight focal areas of funding were mentioned that would premise emergence of China-Africa community with shared future in the new era. Energy, transport, telecommunications and tapping cross-border water resources will be China’s priority in this next phase of Africa’s infrastructural forays. Economic and trade cooperation: China’s will also help to set up additional economic and trade cooperation zones to promote industrialisation in Africa. It will also encourage local currency settlements, instead of hard currency usage to settle transactions. It will also support Africa to achieve general food security by 2030. Security: China also flagged its intent to bolster security in the continent. It will set up peace and security fund in partnership with Africa. It will also support countries in Sahel region and others bordering piracy-ridden Gulf of Aden and Gulf of Guinea apart from providing military aid to African Union. 50 China-Africa security assistance programmes will be launched under flagship Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China has already established naval base in Djibouti on the edge of the strategic Gulf of Aden, which links the Red Sea and Arabian Sea Environment Protection: China-Africa Green Envoys Programme will be launched to strengthen Africa’s capacity for environmental management, pollution prevention and control, as well as green development. China-Africa environmental cooperation centre will also be set up where research on environmental issues will be conducted. Financing Mechanism: For financing, China will nudge African countries to tap new multilateral lenders such as Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), New Development Bank (NDB) of emerging economies as well as Silk Road Fund marshalled by China. Out of $60 billion offered, China will disburse $15 billion as aid, interest-free loans and concessional loans, $20 billion as credit line, channel $10 billion into special fund for China-Africa development and $5 billion special fund will be set up only for African imports.

35) Union Health Ministry has released draft rules on sale of drugs by e-pharmacies to regulate online sale of medicines across India. These rules also have been proposed to ensure accessibility and availability of genuine drugs to the people across India from authentic online portals. Key features of rules: It is mandatory for online pharmacies to register under Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO) and obtain trade licence applicable across India from any state government. E-pharmacies only need to take one licence in any state. They can sell drugs all over the country even if they have one licence. E-pharmacies need to apply for grant of registration to Central Licensing Authority through online portal of Central Government. The registration issued to any person for e-pharmacy will remain valid for three years period from date of its issuance and renewal of registration will have to be done in case it wants to continue. Registration of e-pharmacy can be suspended or cancelled if it contravenes any provision of the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. E-pharmacy registration holder will have to comply with provisions of Information Technology Act, 2000. It is mandatory for e-pharmacy to maintain keep details of patient confidential and not disclose it to any person other than Central Government or State Government concerned. The supply of any drug shall be made against cash or credit memo generated through e-pharmacy portal and such memos shall be maintained by e-pharmacy registration holder as record. Sale of tranquillisers, psychotropic drugs, narcotics and habit forming drugs will be prohibited through these portals. The premises from where e-pharmacy business is conducted will be inspected, every two years, by team of officers authorised by Central Licensing Authority, with or without experts in relevant field or officers authorised by the concerned State Licensing Authority. It will be binding on e-pharmacies to deliver drugs in specific time that will be told to patient during time of purchase while the e-portals are mandatorily required to have 24/7 call centres. The e-pharmacy cannot advertise any drug on radio or television or internet or print or any other media for any purpose.

36) Fourth International Ayurveda Congress (IAvC) was held in Leiden, Netherlands from September 1 to 2, 2018. It was inaugurated by Minister of State, (IC), for AYUSH Shripad Yesso Naik. The Congress was jointly organized by International Maharishi Ayurveda Foundation, Netherlands; All India Ayurvedic Congress, New Delhi and International Academy of Ayurveda, Pune in association with Indian Embassy in Netherlands. Key Facts: The congress focused on promotion and propagation of Ayurveda in Netherlands and its neighboring countries of Europe. On sidelines of this congress, Indian Embassy also had organized special seminar titled “India-Netherlands collaboration in Healthcare, including Ayurveda”. Special Seminar titled “India-Netherlands collaboration in Healthcare, including Ayurveda” was also organized by Indian Embassy on sidelines of this conference. This seminar was jointly addressed by AYUSH Minister and Dutch Minister for Medical Care and Sport Bruno Bruins highlighting benefits on traditional knowledge of India such as Yoga and Ayurveda for healthy living and aging. AYUSH: India has long history and culture running over 5000 years of using traditional medicines for health care and developing them with modern scientific outlook. AYUSH is acronym of tradition medical systems that are being practiced in India such as Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy which are collectively abbreviated as AYUSH.

37) Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) has chosen Japanese woman swimmer Rikako Ikee (18) as winner of Most Valuable Player (MVP) Trophy Award in 2018 Jakarta and Palembang Asian Games. With this, she became first female winner of MVP award, which OCA introduced at 1998 Asian Games in Bangkok, Thailand. She was presented with trophy and $50,000 cheque. Key Facts: Rikako Ikee was recognized as MVP for winning 6 gold and 2 silver medals. She had won gold medals in 50m butterfly, 100m fly, 50m free, 100m free, 4x100m free and the 4x100m medley events and silver medals in 4 x 200m freestyle and mixed medley relays. She is first female athlete in any sport to win six gold medals at a single Asian Games. So far, Only North Korean shooter So Gin-man, who had won seven golds and silver at 1982 Asian Games held in New Delhi, India. With eight medals in total, Ikee has equalled record medal haul in single Asian Games held by North Korean shooter So Gin-man. Ikee is fourth Japanese athlete to win this award since its inception. Previously, three swimmers had won this award: Kosuke Kitajima (Japan) in 2002, Park Tae-hwan (South Korea) in 2006 and Kosuke Hagino (Japan) in 2014.

38) According to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, Mauritius was top source of foreign direct investment (FDI) into India in 2017-18 followed by Singapore. The total FDI in FY 18 stood at $37.36 billion in financial year which was marginal rise over $36.31 billion recorded in the previous fiscal 2016-17. Key Facts: FDI from Mauritius was $13.41 billion in 2017-18 as against $13.38 billion in previous year. FDI inflows from Singapore rose to $9.27 billion from $6.52 billion. FDI from Netherlands has declined marginally to $2.67 billion as against $3.23 billion. FDI into manufacturing sector had witnessed substantial decline to $7.06 billion, as against $11.97 billion a year earlier. FDI into communication services had rose to $8.8 billion in 2017-18 from $5.8 billion. The inflows into retail and wholesale trade increased to $4.47 billion as against $2.77 billion. FDI in financial services too saw rise to $4.07 billion from $3.73 billion in the previous year. These sectors accounted for more than 50% of total FDI of $37.36 billion in 2017-18 reflects global interest in new areas, including online marketplaces and financial technologies.

39) National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog flagged off cycle rally MOVE Cyclathon to spread message of clean mobility to the Indian public and promote cleaner, accessible modes of transport. The cyclathon was held in run up to MOVE: Global Mobility Summit scheduled to be held on September 7, 8 in New Delhi. Key Facts: The event was aimed at promoting cycling for healthier life & less polluting city and spread message of a shared, connected, and zero-emission mobility in the country. It was organized as part of ‘Mobility Week’ which will see 17 events in seven days from 31 August to 6 September 2018. These events are aimed to facilitate interactions with various stakeholders across the mobility domain. MOVE: Global Mobility Summit: It is the first of its kind summit to be organized by NITI Aayog, in collaboration with various ministries and industry partners to promote new cleaner, accessible modes of transport. It is aimed at bringing together and engaging with key stakeholders within rapidly transforming global mobility landscape and evolve public interest framework for shared, connected, zero emission agenda for the future. It also aims to encourage synergies between indigenous industries such as automobile manufacturing, information technology, electronics, telecommunications to integrate with global supply chains. It also envisages mobility as key driver for generating employment, providing innovative solutions to improve efficiency and efficacy of transport sector and accelerate economic growth. It will help to drive government’s goals for vehicle electrification, renewable energy integration and job growth and also speed up India’s transition to a clean energy economy.

40) State-owned ITI Limited has signed agreements with leading startups and original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) covering manufacturing of wide range of ICT-IOT (Information and communications technology- Internet of Things) based solutions. The agreements were signed on the sidelines of the first edition of ITI’s two-day ‘ICT & IoT Startup Tech Expo’ in Bengaluru, Karnataka. Key Facts: The agreements with leading startups and OEMs covers manufacturing of civil and military advanced radar systems, advanced edge router systems, data storage and networking solutions, next generation 5G technology products, digital security solutions, advanced metering solutions and wi-fi products and solutions. This will help to promote effective platform for startups to convert their innovative ideas into marketable products and services. It will also help ITI diversify its’ manufacturing capabilities in partnership with startups, thereby supporting sustainable turnaround of ITI. It is also in line with draft National Digital Communications Policy 2018 which emphasizes domestic manufacturing of digital communications equipment and components and aims to introduce Phased Manufacturing Program for identified product segments. ITI Limited- TEC New Delhi partnership: ITI Limited has also entered into agreement with Telecommunication Engineering Center (TEC), New Delhi for establishment of state-of-the-art telecom testing labs at its Bengaluru plant to facilitate mandatory testing of imported and indigenous telecom equipment in India.Continue Reading W.B.C.S Current Affairs 01 September 2018 to 09 September 2018.

41) 18th Asian Games concluded in Indonesia. This edition of pan-continental mega sporting was held from August 18 to September 2, 2018 in two cities – Jakarta (capital of Indonesia) and Palembang (capital of Indonesia’s province of South Sumatra). This was second time Asian Games history, Indonesia had hosted it after first time in 1962 in Jakarta. Indian women hockey captain Rani Rampal was India’s flag-bearer at closing ceremony. Key Facts: 18th Asian Games saw participation of around 11,000 athletes from 45 countries from across Asian continent, who competed in 40 sports, 67 disciplines, 4 new Olympic sports and 8 non-Olympic sports. It also first time hosted eSports (form of competition using video games) and canoe polo as demonstration sports. In this edition Asian Games, China has topped medals tally with 132 gold, 92 silver and 65 bronze followed by Japan and South Korea. India finished 8th with 15 gold, 24 silver and 30 bronze. The next Asian Games (19th edition) are scheduled to Hangzhou, China between 10 and 25 September 2022. Mascots: Trio of Bhin Bhin (bird of paradise), Kaka (one horned rhino) and Atung (deer) are mascots of 2018 Asian Games. These three represent east, west and centre of country and they have dress traditional to each locality. India’s performance: It was India’s best performance in the Asian Games till now. India finished at eight position both in terms of gold medals and total tally. India’s medal tally is its highest ever, as it won four more medals than in 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games. In terms of gold medal tally, India matched its best performance at the inaugral 1951 Games in New Delhi. In 2018 Asia Games, track and field events remained most productive discipline for India as it won in seven events. Indian athletes had claimed two gold medals in shooting and wrestling and one each in boxing, bridge, rowing and tennis. Asian Games: It is pan-continental multi-sporting event held every four years between athletes from all over Asia. It is also known as Asiad. It is second largest multi-sport event after Olympic Games. It is organised by Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) since 1982, prior to that, it was regulated by Asian Games Federation (AGF). The first Asian Games were held in New Delhi, India in 1951. Since then overall, nine nations have hosted it and forty-six nations have participated in it, including Israel (now excluded from it after its last participation in 1974). The 17th edition of games was hosted by Incheon, South Korea from in 2014. India had hosted Asian Games two times in 1951 (inaugural) and 1982, both in New Delhi.

42) Union Ministry of Women and Child Development recently had inaugurated widows’ home ‘Krishna Kutir’ at Vrindavan in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh. Krishna Kutir is special home for 1000 widows set under Swadhar Greh scheme and is the largest ever facility of its kind created by government organization. It was constructed to mitigate the plight of widows living in pathetic condition in Vrindavan. Krishna Kutir: Its construction was funded by Central Government and will be managed by UP Government. It was constructed on 1.4 hectare of land allotted by UP Government through National Building Construction Corporation (NBCC). It has 100 rooms or dormitories with capacity of housing 1000 inmates at time. Its name was selected a month-long Vrindavan Ashram contest held on social media and entry of Sunita Katyal, Krishna Kutir, was adjudged as winning entry. The design of this Home was prepared in consultation with Helpage India and is old age friendly. It consists of ground plus three floors with facilities of ramp, lifts, supply of adequate electricity, water and other amenities for meeting requirement of senior citizens and persons with special challenges. It is also equipped with large modern kitchen and skill cum training centre. It also has two dispensaries and physiotherapy facility to provide regular medical check-ups to inmates. Swadhar Greh Scheme: It is implemented by Union Ministry of Women and Child Development. It aims to ensure economic and social security to women in distress or victims of difficult circumstances who are in need of institutional support for rehabilitation so that they could lead their life with dignity. It envisages providing shelter, food, clothing and health as well as economic and social security for these women.

43) China-Maldives Friendship Bridge was recently opened for traffic. It is first cross-sea bridge to be built in Maldives. It was China’s flagship infrastructure project in Maldives. It is considered as iconic project of China and Maldives cooperation towards building 21st Century Maritime Silk Road. China-Maldives Friendship Bridge: It is 2.2 km long bridge and has four vehicle lanes and two pedestrian lanes. It connects Maldives capital city Male and neighbouring Hulhule island where island country’s main international airport is located. It will allow locals and tourists to transfer between the two islands on land within five minutes. The bridge was built with Chinese grant of $116 million. Apart from the grant, China also had provided $72 million as loan for 1.4 km section bridge as top up to the grant.

44) The 4th BIMSTEC Summit concluded in Kathmandu with signing and adoption of Kathmandu Declaration by all the seven members (India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand). After conclusion of summit, current chair of BIMSTEC, Nepal PM KP Sharma Oli also handed over Chairmanship of next (fifth) BIMSTEC Summit to Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena. During this summit, foreign ministers of BIMSTEC member countries had signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on establishment of BIMSTEC Grid Interconnection. Kathmandu Declaration: 18-point Kathmandu Declaration aims to enhance effectiveness of BIMSTEC Secretariat by engaging it in various technical and economic activities in the region. It acknowledges importance of trade and investment as one of major contributing factors for fostering economic and social development in the region. It also deplored terrorist attacks in all parts of the world, including in BIMSTEC countries, and strongly condemned terrorism in all its forms. It also reiterated strong commitment of BIMSTEC countries to combat terrorism and called upon all countries to devise comprehensive approach in this regard. Member countries also agreed to expedite conclusion of BIMSTEC Convention on Mutual Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters and called upon member states for its early ratification. It also expressed satisfaction that many member states have ratified BIMSTEC Convention on Cooperation in Combating International Terrorism, Transnational Organized Crime and Illicit Drug Trafficking. BIMSTEC countries also agreed to establish seamless multi-modal transportation linkages and smooth, synchronised and simplified transit facilities through the development, expansion and modernisation of highways, railways, waterways, sea routes and airways in the region. They also decided to speed up efforts to conclude BIMSTEC Coastal Shipping Agreement and BIMSTEC Motor Vehicle Agreement as early as possible taking into account special circumstances and needs of the member states. BIMSTEC countries also decided for early conclusion of BIMSTEC Free Trade Area (FTA) negotiations, and directed the BIMSTEC Trade and Economic Ministerial Meeting and its subsidiary bodies, including Trade Negotiating Committee, to expedite finalisation of all related agreements of FTA as early as possible. BIMSTEC countries also called for exploring possibility of establishing BIMSTEC Development Fund with voluntary contributions from member states. The fund will be utilised for research and planning of BIMSTEC and financing of projects, and other activities of regional organisation.

45) India and Pakistan have agreed to undertake Indus Waters Treaty 1960 mandated tours by their water commissioners in Indus basin on both sides to resolve issues on various hydroelectric projects in Jammu and Kashmir. This was decided in recently concluded high-level bilateral talks on Indus Waters Treaty in Lahore, Pakistan. Highlights on high-level bilateral talks: Deliberations were held on further strengthening the role of Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) for matters under 1960 Treaty. Technical discussions were also held on implementation of various hydroelectric projects under provisions of Indus Waters Treaty including Pakal Dul (1000 MW) and Lower Kalnai (48 MW) in Jammu and Kashmir. India has invited Pakistani experts to visit sites of Pakal Dul and Lower Kalnai hydropower projects on Chenab river in September 2018 to address its concerns over construction of the projects. During the talks India rejected Pakistan’s objections to the construction work and has hinted at continuation of the work on both the hydropower projects. It was agreed to hold the next meeting of the PIC in India on mutually convenient dates. Background: Pakistan is demanding reduction of height of Pakal Dul’s reservoir up to five metres, maintenance of 40-metre height above sea level and making spillways’ gates of Pakal Dul project. Besides it is also asking for clarification of pattern and mechanism for water storage, releases and some technical concerns over design of Lower Kalnai hydropower project from India. Indus Waters Treaty (IWT): IWT is water-distribution treaty between India and Pakistan which was brokered by World Bank (then the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development). It deals with sharing of water of Indus water system having six rivers — Beas, Ravi, Sutlej, Indus, Chenab and Jhelum between the two countries. It was signed by then Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru and President of Pakistan Ayub Khan in Karachi on September 19, 1960. It is most successful water treaty in world as it has survived India-Pakistan wars of 1965, 1971 and the 1999 Kargil standoff besides Kashmir insurgency since 1990. As per treaty, control over three eastern rivers Ravi, Beas and Sutlej are with India. While control over three western rivers Indus, Jhelum and Chenab was given to Pakistan. It allows India to use only 20% of the water of Indus river, which flows through it first, for irrigation, power generation and transport.
The treaty also sets out mechanism for cooperation and information exchange between two countries regarding their use of the rivers. It sets up Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) as a bilateral commission to implement and manage the treaty. It also makes mandatory for both countries to appoint water commissioners, who are required to meet twice a year and arrange technical visits to projects’ sites. The commission solves disputes arising over water sharing. Besides, treaty also provides arbitration mechanism to solve disputes amicably. The World Bank’s role in relation to “disputes” and “differences” with respect of IWT is limited to the designation of people to fulfill certain roles when requested by either or both of the parties.

46) The merger of Idea Cellular and Vodafone India has been completed after it was cleared by National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT). This merger has created India’s biggest telecom service provider. The merged entity is named Vodafone Idea Ltd and dislodges current market leader Bharti Airtel from top position, by its sheer size and scale. New board has been constituted for merged entity with 12 directors (including six independent directors) and Kumar Mangalam Birla as its Chairman. Key Facts: The combined entity will have nearly 443 million customers surpassing Bharti Airtel’s 344 million users. Moreover, it will have all-India revenue market share of 32.2% and take numero uno slot in nine telecom circles. It will have broadband network of 3.4 lakh sites and distribution network with 17 lakh retail outlets. The combination will have wide spectrum portfolio of about 1,850 MHz, over 2 lakh mobile sites and about 2.35 lakh kms of fibre network. This will allow merged entity to offer superior voice and broadband connectivity across the country, covering 92% of the population and reaching nearly 5,00,000 towns and villages.

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