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  • WBCS Current Affairs 02/04/2017 to 08/04/2017 WBCSMadeEasy.in
    Posted on April 10th, 2017 in Current Affairs, Weekly Current Affairs
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    WBCS Current Affairs 02/04/2017 to 08/04/2017 WBCSMadeEasy.in

    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 02/04/2017 to 08/04/2017 WBCSMadeEasy.in.

    1.The 64th National Film Awards for year 2016 were announced on 07 April 2017. Marathi film Kasaav won the award in the Best Feature Film category and Fireflies in the Abyss won in the Non-Feature Film Category. Telugu drama film Sathamanam Bhavathi directed by Satish Vegesna was selected as the Best Popular film providing wholesome entertainment. Background Over 300 films vied for the honours this year. The winners in feature films category were chosen by jury headed by Filmmaker Priyadarshan and winners in non-feature category were chosen by jury headed nationally acclaimed cinematographer and writer Raju Misra. The 64th National Film Awards in the various categories are as follows Best Feature Film: Kasaav (Marathi). Non-Feature Film: Fireflies in the Abyss. Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment: Sathamanam Bhavathi Best Direction: Rajesh (Ventilator) Best Actor: Akhay Kumar (Rustom) Best Actress: Surabhi Lakshmi (Minnaminungu) Best Supporting Actress: Zaira Wasim (Dangal) Best Child Artist: Adhish Praveen (Kunju Daivam), Saj (Noor Islam), Manohara (Railway Children) Best stunt choreography: Peter Hein (Pulimurugan) Best Children’s Film: Dhanak (Hindi) Best Film on social issue: Pink Best Male Playback Singer: Sundara Iyer (Joker) Best Female Playback Singer: Thume jaake Best Screenplay (original): Syam Pushkaran (Maheshinte Prathikaram) Best Screenplay (adapted): Sanjay Krishnaji patel (Dashakriya) Best Editing: Rameshwar Ventilator Sound designer: Jayadevan (Kaadu Pookunna Neram) Best production design: 24 Best Costume Designer: Sachin (Marathi film) Best Environmental film including agriculture: The Tiger who crossed the line Best Make-up Artist: MK Ramakrishna Best Music Direction: Babu Padmanabha (Kannada Lama) Special Mention: Kadvi Hawa (Hindi), Mukthi Bhavan (Hindi), Majirathi Keki (Assamese), Sonam Kapoor (Neerja). Special Jury award: Mohanlal( Pulimurugan), Janatha Garage and Munthirivallikal Thalirkkumbol. Best feature films in regional languages: Madipur (Tulu), Joker (Tamil), Wrongside Raju (Gujarati), Pelli Chupulu (Telugu), Dashakriya (Marathi), Bisarjan’ (Bengali), Maheshinte Prathikaram (Malayalam), Ke Sara Sara (Konkini), Reservation (Kannada) and Neerja (Hindi). About National Film Awards The National Film Awards are most prominent film award ceremonies in India. It was established in 1954. Since then awarded annually. Winners in different categories of these awards are selected by the national panel of Juries appointed by Union Government. These awards are presented by the President of India in the official ceremony.Continue Reading WBCS Current Affairs 02/04/2017 to 08/04/2017 WBCSMadeEasy.in.

    2. India has signed a joint statement with Russia takeover full operational control of Unit 1 of the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KKNPP). It formally marks the full transition. The agreement was signed between representatives of Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL) and the ASE Group of Companies, a subsidiary of ROSATOM State Atomic Energy Corporation of Russia. Key Facts With the deal, the Russian and Indian sides have confirmed fulfilment of all warranty terms and obligations of the contractor (ASE Group of Companies) for the construction of Unit 1. The warranty period run showed reliable and safe operation of Unit 1. Thus, the NPCIL has confirmed that ASE Group of Companies, which is a general contractor, has fulfilled all its tasks in full and accurately. The commercial operation and the warranty period of Unit 1 of KKNPP had started in December 2014. The warranty was typically for one year, which ended in December 2015. However, the final takeover agreement was delayed to ensure the reliability of the plant and equipment as Unit I was the first of a series of six reactors. Earlier, in March 2017, both countries had signed joint protocol on provisional acceptance of Unit 2 of the plant, which marked the start of its commercial operation. About Kudankulam Nuclear Power Plant (KNPP) KKNPP is the single largest nuclear power station in India. It is situated in Koodankulam in the Tirunelveli district of Tamil Nadu. It is scheduled to have six VVER-1000 reactors with an installed capacity of 6,000 MW of electricity. It has been built in collaboration with Atomstroyexport, the Russian state company and NPCIL. Unit 1 of the plant was synchronised with the southern power grid in October 2013 and is generating electricity to its warranted limit of 1000 MW. Unit 2 with capacity 1,000 MW had achieved first criticality in July 2016. It was grid-connected in August 2016 and its commercial operation started in October 2016. The ground-breaking ceremony for construction of units 3 & 4 was performed in February 2016. The power generated from the plant will provide electricity to Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala and Karnataka.

    3. The World Health Day (WHD) is observed every year on 7 April to mark the anniversary of the founding of the World Health Organization (WHO). Observance of the day focuses on disseminating knowledge and awareness about human health, increasing life expectancy by adding good health to the lives of people and promoting healthier living habits across the globe. The day also provides with a unique opportunity to mobilize action around a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world. 2017 theme: “Depression: Let’s talk”. It seeks to encourage people to come forward for treatment. Under it, WHO will be leading a one-year global campaign on depression which is the leading cause of ill health and disability worldwide. The goal of the campaign is that people with depression get help. More than 300 million people around the world are now living with depression, an increase of more than 18% between 2005 and 2015. It affects people of all ages, from all walks of life, in all countries. At worst, depression can lead to suicide, which is now the second leading cause of death among 15-29-year olds. Background The World Health Organisation (WHO) annually marks World Health Day on 7 April to celebrate its founding in 1948. It is one of eight official global public health campaigns marked by WHO On this day in 1948, the first World Health Assembly was held Geneva, Switzerland. Since then the World Health Assembly decided to celebrate 7 April of each year with effect from 1950 as the World Health Day.

    4. The Union Cabinet has cleared approved setting up an independent rail regulator, named Rail Development Authority (RDA). It will be based in Delhi and will be set up through an executive order. It will be responsible for recommending passenger fares, setting performance standards for rail operations and creating level playing policy for private sector participation. Key Facts The RDA will be an independent body with separate budget. The independence is ensured through separate budget, appointment and removal process. It will act within the parameters of the Railway Act, 1989. It will only make recommendations to the Railway Ministry which will take a final call on passenger and freight fares. Primary functions: (i) Tariff determination: RDA will frame principles, recommend tariffs, principles for classification of commodities, frame principles for social service obligation and guidelines for track access charges on dedicated freight corridors. (ii) Ensuring fair play: It will ensure level-playing field for all stakeholders. It will propose modifications and send suggestions or advisory notes on investment in railways. It will also make suggestions regarding policies for private investment to ensure reasonable safeguards to PPP investors to ensure level playing field and resolve disputes regarding future concession agreements. (iii) Setting standards: It will help to set efficiency and performance standards and disseminate information in line with global best practices and benchmarking. It will also collect, analyse and disseminate information and statistics concerning the rail sector. Composition: It will have a Chairman and three members with a fixed term of five years. Moreover, it will be allowed to engage experts from various fields. They can be removed by the Centre on grounds such as insolvency, misbehaviour, conviction, physical and mental incapability. The Chairman and members of the Authority will be appointed by a Search and Selection Committee headed by the Cabinet Secretary. The search committee will also include Railway Board Chairman, Department of Personnel and Training Secretary and Chairman of any regulatory body of Central Government nominated by the Cabinet Secretary. Background The need for a separate regulator was emphasised by various committees, including the Dr. Bibek Debroy Committee on Mobilisation of Resources for Major Railway Projects and Restructuring of Railway Ministry (2015), National Transport Development Policy Committee (2014) and Expert Group under the Chairmanship of Dr. Rakesh Mohan (2001). Problems with Indian Railways At present, the rail tariffs were set by the Union government and were mostly based on political considerations especially in passenger segment. As per provisional estimate, Railways losses had touched over Rs 30,000 crore in 2015-16 in the passenger segment due to sharp increases in input costs and no proportionate increase in fares over the same period. Moreover, keeping rail fares within affordable limits has led to cross-subsidisation as the goods fares have increased considerably more than the passenger fares in the past. The fare structure had distorted in the Railways network as the passenger fares are subsidised by goods fares which has led to increase in the freight tariffs, resulting in diversion to road sector. Comment RDA will improve the services offered to passengers, provide comfort to investors in the rail sector and enhance transparency and accountability. It will help the Indian Railways to take decisions on pricing of services commensurate with costs, protect consumer interests, suggest measures for enhancement of non-fare revenue, create positive environment for investment, promote competition and encourage market development, promote efficient resource allocation and benchmarking of service standards, and suggest measures for absorption of new technologies and human resource development.

    5. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved t extension of the implementation phase of the Crime and Criminals Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) Project for another year beyond 31 March 2017. The proposal in this regard was forwarded by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. The extension will help in achieving the remaining objectives of the project comprehensively. What is Crime and Criminals Tracking Network and Systems (CCTNS) Project? CCTNS is a mission mode project under the National e-Governance Plan of Central Government that aims at creating a comprehensive and integrated system for enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of policing by adopting of principle of e-Governance. It seeks to create nationwide networking infrastructure for evolution of IT-enabled-state-of-the-art tracking system for investigation of crime and detection of criminals. It was originally approved in 2009.

    6. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for signing of the Collaborative Agreement with French National Research Agency (ANR), France. The MoU will be signed for supporting the Belmont Forum Secretariat from January, 2015 to December, 2017 at a total estimated expenditure of 40,000 Euros. The Cabinet also approved continued financial support to Belmont Forum Secretariat beyond 2017. About Belmont Forum Belmont Forum is a high level group of the world’s major and emerging funders of global environmental change research and international science councils. It was established in 2009. It aims to accelerate delivery of the environmental research needed to remove critical barriers to sustainability by aligning and mobilizing international resources. It provides an opportunity to identify study and deliver international environmental research priorities through trans­national research collaboration between natural and social scientists. Members: India, Australia, Brazil, Canada, European Commission, France, Germany, Japan, Netherland, South Africa, UK and US etc. India is represented by the Union Ministry of Earth Science (MoES) since 2012. Belmon Secretariat: It is hosted by one of the Belmont forum member on rotational basis. ANR, France is hosting the Secretariat from January, 2015 to December, 2017. Expenditure for hosting the Secretariat is borne by Belmont Forum member countries in kind or cash contribution. Comment The signing of the MoU will help to maintain a certain degree of continuity in the operations of the Belmont Forum and also help in smooth coordination of the activities of it. Indian scientific community will ultimately benefit from this agreement as India already is participating in four Collaborative Research Actions (CRAs) of the Forum.

    7. The Union Cabinet has approved the MoU on Cooperation in the field of Mass Media between India and Bangladesh. Decision in this regard was taken at the Union Cabinet Meeting chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

    8. The Union Cabinet has approved the MoU between India and Australia on cooperation in the field of Health and Medicine. The MoU will involve cooperation through joint initiatives in the Health Sector and strengthen bilateral ties between both countries. The main areas of cooperation are Communicable diseases such as Tuberculosis and Malaria. Non-Communicable Diseases and Mental Health. Anti-Microbial Resistance and responding to public health emergencies. Regulation of vaccines, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. Digital Health. Tobacco Control Any other area of cooperation decided mutually by both countries.

    9. Japan has officially recognized bitcoin and digital currencies as legal money along the lines of other fiat currencies with effect from April 1, 2017. The recognition comes after implementation of a new law amending Banking Act in Japan for legalizing these currencies. It will help in integration of digital currency into legal banking system through regulatory scrutiny. Key Facts The recognition means regulations governing banks and financial institutions will be applicable to crypto-currency and digital currencies exchange platforms They will be also required to comply with strict Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements, along with annual audits. Other requirements include meeting the stated capital and cyber security requirements to ensure consumer protection. It also makes these digital currencies as “property of value,” meaning that they can be used for payment in the broader marketplace and that it may be bought or sold. What is Bitcoin? Bitcoin is a form of digital currency or virtual currency created and held electronically. No one controls it that is not regulated by any central bank or government. They aren’t printed, like dollars or euros – they’re produced by people, and increasingly businesses, running computers all around the world, using software that solves mathematical problems. It is also called a “cryptocurrency” since it is decentralized and uses cryptography to prevent double-spending, a significant challenge inherent to digital currencies. Bitcoin is a distributed peer-to-peer digital currency that functions without the inter-mediation of any central authority. It can also be traded on an open market and its exchange rate fluctuates much like a stock market i.e. based on the demand.

    10. India was ranked third for the third year in a row in a doping violation report published by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) for 2015. In 2015, 117 Indian athletes were punished after testing positive for banned substances. India followed the Russian Federation (176) and Italy (129), the same position as in the reports of 2013 and 2014. Background The chart was prepared by WADA after compiling information of analytical findings and sanctions rendered till January 31, 2017 by various accredited anti-doping bodies. It was the first set of Anti-Doping Rule Violation statistics under the revised WADA Code and third such report in its history since 2013. Key Facts ADRV is a doping offence committed by an athlete or athlete support person, resulting in certain consequences or sanctions. It is derived from adverse analytical findings (AAFs) (known as ‘positive’ results). A total of 229,412 samples were received and analysed in 2015 by WADA-accredited laboratories worldwide. Out of these, 2,522 samples were reported as AAFs. The dope offenders belong to 80 sports and 121 nationalities. There were a total of 1,929 ADRVs (1,901 from athletes and 28 from athlete support personnel) out of which 1,649 are analytical findings and 280 from ‘evidence based intelligence’ non analytical findings. Out of 1649 are Analytical ADRVs, 1304 cases (79%) were of male and 345 female (21%); 390 (24%) were from out of competition tests and 1259 in competition (76%); 1644 urine and five blood. Among sports disciplines worldwide, bodybuilding has overtaken athletics in contributing the highest number of dope cheats with 270 such cases. Athletics is second at 242, followed by weightlifting (239), cycling (200), powerlifting (110), football (108), rugby union (80), boxing (66), wrestling (57) and basketball (39). India related facts: The number of dope offenders from India has been increasing in the last three years. India had 91 and 96 Anti-doping Rule Violations (ADRVs) in 2013 and 2014 respectively. Of the 117 Indian offenders of 2015, two were non-analytical ADRVs case. Out of the remaining 115 analytical ADRVs, 78 are committed by male athletes and 37 were female. Among individual sports, weightlifting has reported highest positive doping tests with a whopping 56 Indian lifters (32 male and 24 female) punished for doping. Athletics contributed second highest number of dope offenders with 21 (14 male and 7 female), followed by boxing (8), wrestling (8), cycling (4), kabaddi (4), aquatics (3), powerlifting (3), Judo (2), wushu (2), rowing, hockey (1), football (1) , bodybuilding (1) and street and ball hockey (1). About World Anti-Doping Agency WADA is global Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO) that aims at harmonizing anti-doping regulations in all sports and countries. It is collective initiative led by the International Olympic Committee. It was established in 1999 in Lausanne Switzerland under so called Declaration of Lausanne to coordinate, promote and monitor the fight against drugs in sports. Its headquarters is in Montreal, Canada.

    11. The board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cleared a proposal to introduce banknotes of Rs200 denomination. The decision was taken at the RBI board meeting held in Mumbai in March 2017. The process of printing the new Rs 200 notes is likely to begin after June 2017 once the government officially approves the new denomination. Earlier in November 2016, RBI had announced the withdrawal of Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 currency notes, amounting to around 86% of currency in circulation of Rs 17.9 trillion. Since then, it has replaced these denominations with the new Rs 2,000 and redesigned Rs 500 bank notes. RBI board: It has 14 members including governor and four deputy governors. The board also has economic affairs secretary and financial services secretary as its members.

    12. The number of beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana for providing free of cost LPG (cooking gas) connections to BPL households has crossed 2 crore mark since its launch in May 2016. The success of the scheme shows that how it is serving as a novel means of women empowerment and achieving the goals of providing clean fuel and a better life to the people. About Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana The Ujjwala Yojana was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in May 2016 from Maldepur Morh, Ballia in Uttar Pradesh. Tagline for the scheme: Swachh Indhan, Behtar Jeevan. Purpose of the scheme: Empower women and protect their health by shifting them from traditional cooking based on unclean cooking fuels or on fossil fuels to clean cooking gas. Beneficiary: Under the scheme, an adult woman member of a BPL will be given deposit-free LPG connection with financial assistance of Rs 1,600 per connection by the Centre. Identification of beneficiaries: It will be through the Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) in consultation with state governments and Union territories. Implementing Ministry: The scheme is being implemented by the Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Targets: 8,000 crore has been earmarked for providing 5 crore LPG connections to poor households within 3 years by 2019.

    13. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) of the Union Defence Ministry has approved proposal to procure fresh batch of Barak surface-to-air missiles (SAM) for the Indian Navy’s warships from Israel. The procurement of the missiles will enhance India’s maritime capability in view of the changing security dynamics in the Indian Ocean region (IOR).

    14. The Indian Institute of Sciences (IISc), Bengaluru was adjudged as the best Indian university in the 2017 National Institutional Ranking Framework (NIRF) released by Union Human Resource Development Ministry. This year it is second edition NIRF survey and was released as part of the India Rankings 2017 for the Educational Institutions. What is NIRF Survey? NIRF survey is first of its kind of indigenous ranking framework for higher education institutions in the country. It outlines a methodology to rank institutions across the country based on the parameters broadly covering Teaching, Learning and Resources, Research and Professional practices, Graduation Outcomes, Outreach and inclusivity and Perception. It covers six categories of institutions including universities, engineering, management, pharmacy, architecture and colleges. Background In the second edition of India Rankings, a total of 2995 institutions had participated. It included 232 Universities, 1024 Engineering Institutions, 546 Management Institutions, 318 Pharmacy Institutions and 637 General Degree Colleges, and others. Many of these had participated in multiple disciplines, adding to a total of 3319 participants across disciplines. List of top 5 India Rankings 2017 Overall Indian Institute of Science, Banglore. Indian Institute of Technology, Madras. Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay. Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur Indian Institute of Technology, New Delhi Engineering Indian Institute of Technology, Madras Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur Indian Institute of Tchnology, New Delhi Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur Management Indian Institute of Management, Ahmedabad Indian Institute of Management, Banglore Indian Institute of Management, Calcutta Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow Indian Institute of Management, Kozhikode University Indian Institute of Science, Banglore Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi Banaras Hindu University Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Banglore Jadavpur University, Kolkata, West Bengal Colleges Miranda House, Delhi Loyola College, District Chennai Shri Ram College of Commerce, New Delhi Bishop Heber College, District Tiruchirapalli Atma Ram Sanatan Dharma College,New Delhi Pharmacy Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Mohali, S.A.S. Nagar (Mohali), Punjab University Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chandigarh Indian Institute of Chemical Technology, Mumbai National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Hyderabad

    15. Scientists from Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS) have identified a soil fungus Aspergillus tubingensis that uses enzymes to rapidly break down plastic materials. The plastic-eating fungus was found Islamabad, Pakistan. The new discovery in an advance can help to deal with plastic waste problem that threatens our environment in safer and more effective way Key facts Scientists have found that Aspergillus tubingensis fungus which ordinarily lives in the soil can also grows on the surface of plastics. In order to grow on plastics, it secretes enzymes on the surface of the plastic which break the chemical bonds between the plastic molecules, or polymers. This fungus also uses the physical strength of its mycelia (the network of root—like filaments) to break apart the polymers. Significance of discovery Plastic waste materials can persist in the environment over long periods of time as they do not break down in the same way as other organic materials. The conventional plastic waste disposal through burying, recycling, incineration or other methods are unsustainable, costly and result in toxic by-products, which are hazardous to human health. This discovery can offer cheap sustainable solution to degrade plastic and its toxic by-products without having any negative impact on environment and human health.

    16. India and Malaysia have inked seven agreements to foster deeper relationship between the two countries. The agreements were exchanged in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Malaysian counterpart Najib Abdul Razak in New Delhi who was on six day state visit to India. Signed agreements are Air Services Agreement: It is revised ASA with Malaysia signed by both countries in 1974. MoU on Cooperation Fertilizers sector: It deals with development of proposed Urea and Ammonia Manufacturing Plant in Malaysia and offtake of exisiting surplus urea from Malaysia to India. MoU on cooperation in Sports: It envisages cooperation through exchange of sportspersons, instructors, information on sports regimen and training curricula, etc. MoU for cooperation in training: It was signed between Malaysian Human Resource Fund (HRDF and EDII, Ahmedabad. It envisages EDII, Ahmedabad to carry out training and other capacity building programmes, as necessary on behalf of the Human Resource Development, Malaysia. MoU on Mutual Recognition of the Educational Qualifications: It was singed between Association of Indian Universities (AIU) and Malaysian Qualifications Agency (MQA). It establishes recognition of equivalence of various degrees awarded by educational institutions in both countries and envisages eventual signing of mutual recognition agreement. MoU on collaboration in technology development in the field of Palm Oil: It was signed between Malaysian Palm Oil Board (MPOB) and India’s Institute of Chemical Technology (ICT). MoU on implementation of 4th Generation Technology Park in Andhra Pradesh: It was signed between MIGHT Technology Malaysia and AP Economic Development Board. The Malaysian industry-government group for high power technology (MIGHT) will act as facilitator to develop cluster in AP. As part of park, packing material will be made from recycled agricultural materials.

    17. The Union Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has launched Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana in Nellore District of Andhra Pradesh. The Scheme aims at providing physical aids and assisted-living devices for senior citizens belonging to Below Poverty Line (BPL) category. Key Provisions of the Scheme The scheme will be distribute free of cost physical aids and assisted-living devices for senior citizens belonging to BPL category in Camp mode. It is the first-of-its-kind Central Sector Scheme (CCS) in India, to be fully funded by the Union Government. It is expected to benefit 5,20,000 Senior Citizens and its expenditure implementation will be met from the “Senior Citizens’ Welfare Fund“. Implementing Agency: Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation (ALIMCO), a PSU under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. It will also undertake one year free maintenance of the devices. Aids and Assisted-Living Devices to be provided under it: The eligible elderly beneficiary will get walking sticks, elbow crutches, walkers/crutches, tripods/qadpods, hearing aids, wheelchair, aificial Dentures and Spectacles depending upon their physical impairment. Purpose: The assisted-living devices will help the Senior Citizens to overcome their age related physical impairment and to lead a dignified and productive life with minimal dependence on care givers or other members of the family. Identification of beneficiaries: It will be done by the State Governments/UTs through a Committee chaired by the Deputy Commissioner/District Collector. 30% of the beneficiaries in each district shall be women. The Committee can utilize the data of BPL beneficiaries receiving Old Age Pension under the NSAP or any other Scheme of the State/UTs for identification of senior citizens belonging to BPL category. Background In the Union Budget 2015-16, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had proposed formulation of a scheme for providing Physical Aids and Assisted-Living Devices to senior citizens belonging to BPL Category. Pursuant to this, “Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana” has been formulated. As per the Census figures of 2011, population of senior citizens in India is 10.38 crore. More than 70% of the population of senior citizens live in rural areas of the country. A sizeable percentage (5.2%) of the senior citizens suffers from some sort of disabilities related to old age.

    18. The Union Ministry of Heavy Industries and Public Enterprises has withdrawn subsidy given to mild hybrid vehicles under FAME India (Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric vehicles in India) scheme. Earlier, mild hybrid, strong hybrid, plug-in hybrid and pure electric vehicles were given incentives under the FAME India scheme. What is mild hybrid vehicle? A mild hybrid vehicle has an electric motor, which on its own cannot run a vehicle but assists normal engine by using recovered energy stored in a battery and helps save fuel It uses the energy generated while applying the brakes and turns it into electric energy which is then stored in a battery. This energy can then be used to turn the starter motor when the car’s start stop system needs it. Mild-hybrids are 7-15% more fuel efficient as compared to conventional hybrid systems that can run on pure electric power for short distances too. About FAME India Scheme The FAME India scheme was launched in 2015 under National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) with an aim to promote eco-friendly vehicles in the country. It objectives is to provide fiscal and monetary incentives for adoption and market creation of both hybrid and electric technologies vehicles in the country. It will also support the hybrid or electric vehicles market development and its manufacturing eco-system in the country in order to achieve self-sustenance in stipulated period. It is being administered by the Heavy Industries Ministry. It will provide demand incentives to electric and hybrid vehicles from two-wheeler to buses. National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) 2020: It aims to achieve national fuel security by promoting hybrid and electric vehicles in the country. It has set ambitious target of 6-7 million sales of hybrid and electric vehicles year on year from 2020 onwards.

    19. India and six other South Asian countries of South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) have pledged to improve intra-regional connectivity to boost trade and tourism. Decision in this regard was taken at the Finance ministers of India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Maldives and Myanmar meeting held in New Delhi to reshape SASEC. They also came out with the SASEC Vision for 2025 and adopted operational plan 2016-25. Key Facts SASEC Vision: It is a new strategic road map to guide the sub-region’s development through 2025. It reflects member nations’ commitment to tap into latent industrial demand and promote sub-regional industry-to-industry links Operational plan 2016-25: It defines the strategic objectives and operational priorities in transport, trade facilitation and energy as well as for the development of economic corridor. The members are eying for $70 billion incremental GDP and 20 million jobs by 2025 so that SASEC become better, stronger and faster to make South Asia one of the fastest growing sub-regions in the world. Other decisions taken in the meeting: Member countries sought to improve trade of oil and gas among themselves and also enhance road connectivity. They also looked to leverage natural resources-based industries, promote industry-to-industry links and bolster connectivity to boost trade and tourism They also sought to improve people-to-people contact by developing gateways and hubs to expand the sub-region’s trade and commerce to regional and global markets.

    20. Government has formally launched Bharat Stage-IV (BS-IV) grade transportation fuel across the country to keep carbon emission in check. The launch came days after the Supreme Court banned sale and registration of BS-III vehicles from 1 April, 2017. It sets target of ushering in BS-VI fuel by April 2020 by skipping BS-V fuel. All state-run oil marketing companies will provide BS-IV-compliant fuel at their 53,500 retail fuel stations across the country. BS-IV fuels BS-IV fuels contain far less sulphur than BS-III fuel. Sulphur in fuel makes it dirtier and lowers the efficiency of catalytic converters, which control emissions. The BS-IV complaint vehicles release less pollutants Carbon Mono-oxide (CO), Hydrocarbon (HC), Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx), Sulphur (SOx) and particulate matter (PM) compared to BS III complaint vehicles. About Bharat stage emission standards BS emission standards are emission standards instituted by the Union Government to regulate output of air pollutants from internal combustion engines and spark ignition engines equipment, including motor vehicles. The standards and the timeline for implementation are set by the Central Pollution Control Board under the Union Ministry of Environment & Forests and climate change (MoEFCC). The standards, based on European regulations were first introduced in 2000. Since then, various stages Bharat Stage compatible fuel and ungraded and modified vehicles were introduced throughout the country. Each stage specifies a certain limit on the pollutants released, Higher the Bharat Stage goes lesser it emits pollutants. BS-I, BS-II and BS-III stages were launched in 2000, 2005 and 2010 respectively The harmful emissions that are identified for regulations in different Bharat Stages (BS) are carbon monoxide (CO), unburnt hydrocarbons (HC), Nitrogen Oxides (NOx) and Particulate matter (PM).

    21. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated Chenani-Nashri Tunnel, country’s longest road tunnel that links Kashmir Valley with Jammu by an all-weather route. The 9-km-long tunnel passes through the lower Himalayan mountain range on Jammu-Srinagar National Highway 44. It cuts the distance between Jammu and Srinagar to around 250 km from the current 350 km.Key Facts The 9-km long ‘Chenani-Nashri Tunnel has been built at an altitude of 1,200 meters. It is also Asia’s longest bi-directional highway tunnel. It has been built at the cost of Rs. 2,500 crore. It is India’s first tunnel equipped with world class Integrated Traffic Control System (ITCS) through which ventilation, signals, fire control, communication and electrical systems are automatically actuated. It reduces travel time by three to four hours. The also reduces road distance between Chenani and Nashri to 10.9 km from earlier long route of 41 km. The tunnel will provide all-weather road connectivity to the Valley and avoid landslide-prone stretch. It will help to boost the trade and commerce and tourism in the valley. It also boasts features like Video Surveillance System, FM Rebroadcast System, Entrance Detection Control System and Active Firefighting System. It also features a state-of-the-art ABB ventilation system to ensure that users have access to fresh air as they drive through it. The tunnel will provide all-weather road connectivity to the Valley and serve as an alternative to the highway which is closed at the time of snow and rains. It will help to boost the trade and commerce and tourism in the valley. It will reduce traffic jams on National Highway-1 A.

    22. Myanmar became the 7th member of South Asia Sub-regional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) program of Asian Development Bank (ADB). It was officially made member at the SASEC Finance Ministers’ meeting held in New Delhi and chaired by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. Key Facts Myanmar’s membership in SASEC will offer host of opportunities for realizing synergies from economic cooperation in the subregion. Road corridors in Myanmar can provide key gateway between South Asia and Southeast Asia, while its ports can provide alternate routes and gateways to the landlocked northeastern region of India. It has the potential to unleash significant economic potential and bring better livelihoods to millions in the region after developing multimodal connectivity between India’s northeastern region, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Transport linkages between South and Southeast Asia will also become more attractive to businesses once ongoing and planned motor vehicle agreements are finalized and implemented. Background Prior to becoming member, Myanmar was having observer status of SASEC since 2013. Since 2014, it was participating in annual SASEC Nodal Officials’ meetings as an observer. It was invited by the participating countries of SASEC countries to become a full member in 2015. About South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) SASEC program is a project-based partnership to promote regional prosperity by improving cross-border connectivity, boosting trade among member countries and strengthening regional economic cooperation. It was established in 2001 in response to the request of the four countries of South Asia – Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal – from ADB to assist in facilitating economic cooperation among them. ADB is the secretariat and lead financier of the SASEC program. So far, it has supported 46 projects worth $9.17 billion in transport, trade facilitation, energy and information and communications technology (ICT). Its seven members are Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal and Sri Lanka.

    23. The Union Ministry of Textiles has launched PowerTex India, a three-year comprehensive scheme for Powerloom Sector Development. The PowerTex India scheme aims to boost common infrastructure and modernisation of the powerloom sector in the country. Key Facts PowerTex India scheme comprises new research and development in power loom textiles, new markets, branding, subsidies and welfare schemes for the workers. It has overall nine major components, including two new schemes. It has outlay of Rs. 487 crores for three years from 2017-18. The two new schemes are Pradhan Mantri Credit Scheme (PMCS) for powerloom weavers and solar energy scheme (SEC) for powerlooms. PMCS for powerlooms: Under it, financial assistance, including margin money subsidy and interest reimbursement, will be given as against the credit facility under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana to the decentralised power loom units. SEC for powerlooms: Under it, financial subsidy for the installation of the Solar Photo Voltaic Plants will be provided to alleviate the problems of power cuts. Government will provide subsidy of 50% to power loom units having maximum eight looms for adopting solar energy for captive use either in grid or off grid system. Other components of the scheme: In-situ Upgradation of Plain Powerlooms; Group Workshed Scheme (GWS); Yarn Bank Scheme; Common Facility Centre (CFC); Facilitation, IT, Awareness, Market Development and Publicity for Powerloom Schemes, Tex Venture Capital Fund and Grant-in-Aid and Modernisation & Upgradation of Powerloom Service Centres (PSCs).

    24. Five associates and the Bharatiya Mahila Bank have officially merged with country’s largest lender State Bank of India (SBI). With this merger, SBI joins the league of top 50 banks globally in terms of assets. The five associate banks are: State Bank of Bikaner and Jaipur, State Bank of Hyderabad, State Bank of Mysore, State Bank of Patiala and State Bank of Travancore. Key facts With this merger, SBI’s market share has increased to 22.5-23% from 17% with total business of over 37 lakh crore rupees. The merged entity now has a deposit base of more than Rs. 26 lakh-crore and advances level of Rs 18.50 lakh crore accounting for one-fourth of the deposit and loan market in the country . SBI now has 2.77 lakh employees, 50 crore customers and more than 25,000 branches and 58,000 ATMs. Its total customer base of the SBI now has reached to 37 crore across the country. Post-merger, all the customers of associate banks will now enjoy the benefits of a wide array of digital products and services offered by SBI. Comment The merger will help SBI to rationalise its branch network by relocating some of the branches to maximise reach. This will also help to optimise its operations and improve profitability. It will also bring in substantial cost saving and synergy in treasury operations. Moreover, the combined entity will enhance the productivity, mitigate geographical risks, increase operational efficiency and drive synergies across multiple dimensions of the SBI.

    25. The Union Cabinet approved signing of an agreement between the Union Ministry of Rural Development and Centre on Integrated Rural Development for Asia and the Pacific (CIRDAP) for establishment of CIRDAP Centre at National Institute of Rural Development and Panchayati Raj (NIRD&PR), Hyderabad. CIRDAP Centre will give NIRD&PR advantage to have first-hand knowledge of networking with organizations specialized in rural development programmes and to build a repository of institutional knowledge for NIRD&PR. This Centre will also help NIRD&PR to enhance its status in the region through linkages with other ministries and institutes in the CIRDAP Member Countries (CMCs). It will also work on the implementation of integrated rural development, particularly poverty alleviation programmes within CMC member countries. About CIRDAP The CIRDAP is regional intergovernmental organization involved in rural development and poverty alleviation. It was established in July 1979 at the initiative of the countries of the Asia-Pacific region and Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the UN with support from several other UN bodies and donors. Headquarters: Dhaka, Bangladesh. Mandate: Promote regional cooperation and act as a serving institution for its member countries for promotion of integrated rural development through research action, training, information dissemination etc. Members: So far there are 16 members. They are Afghanistan, Bangladesh (Host State), India, Indonesia, Iran, Lao PDR, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam and Fiji. India is one of key founder members of it.

    26. A team of scientists from Raman Research Institute, Bengaluru and University of Delhi for the first time have seen indications of a massive planet orbiting a low mass X-ray binary star system. The system MXB 1658-298 is an X-ray binary and a part of the constellation Ophiuchus (serpent bearer). It is nearly 30,000 light years away and the planet is expected to be nearly 8,000 times as massive as the earth.

    27. Dawit Isaak, an imprisoned Eritrean-Swedish journalist was awarded the 2017 UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize. He will be bestowed with this prestigious award in recognition of his courage, resistance and commitment to freedom of expression. He will be awarded on World Press Freedom Day (3 May 2017).
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