WBCS Current Affairs 03 February 2018 to 09 February 2018

West Bengal Civil Service (Executive), popularly known as W.B.C.S.(Exe), is the civil service of the Indian state of West Bengal. For the W.B.C.S.(Exe) and other comparative posts, Public Service Commission of West Bengal arranges competitive examinations in three phases every year.Knowing the syllabus of W.B.C.S. Examination thoroughly is the first step towards this exam.The mains syllabus of W.B.C.S. is very descriptive.Following the previous years question papers are very important while preparing for this examination.1) The Union Cabinet has approved implementation of Prime Minister’s Research Fellows (PMRF) Scheme for doctoral students pursuing research in areas related to technology. It aims to realize importance of innovation and technology for progress and development of the nation. Prime Minister’s Research Fellows (PMRF) Scheme: The fellowship scheme was announced in the Budget Speech 2018-19. It will be implemented for period of seven years beginning 2018-19 at total cost of Rs. 1650 crore. Under it, best students who have completed or are in final year of B. Tech/Integrated M.Tech/M.Sc courses in Science and Technology streams from IISc/IITs/IISERs/ NITs/IIITs will be offered direct admission in PhD programme in IITs/IISc. Maximum of 3000 Fellows would be selected in three year period, beginning 2018-19. Monthly fellowship: Selected students through selection process laid down in PMRF Guidelines will be offered monthly fellowship of Rs.70,000 for first two years, Rs.75,000 for 3rd year and Rs.80,000 in 4th and 5th years. Research grant: Each selected fellow students will be also provided research grant of Rs.2.00 lakh for period of 5 years to cover their foreign travel expenses for presenting research papers in international conferences and seminars. Significance: The scheme will help tapping talent pool of country for carrying out research indigenously in cutting edge science and technology domains. The research undertaken by fellows under this scheme will address national priorities at one hand and shortage of quality faculty in premier educational institutions of country on the other. Continue reading WBCS Current Affairs 03 February 2018 to 09 February 2018.

2) The Union Cabinet has approved proposal for ratification of Minamata Convention on Mercury and depositing instrument of ratification enabling India to become Party of Convention. The approval entails ratification of convention along with flexibility for continued use of mercury-based products and processes involving mercury compound up to 2025. Minamata Convention on Mercury: The Convention is global treaty that aims to protect human health and the environment from anthropogenic emissions and releases of mercury and mercury compounds. It derives its name after Japanese city Minamata which had went through devastating incident of mercury poisoning. It aims to control anthropogenic releases of mercury throughout its lifecycle. The Convention was agreed at 5th session of Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Mercury in Geneva, Switzerland in January 2013 and was adopted in October 2013 at Diplomatic Conference (Conference of Plenipotentiaries), Kumamoto, Japan. Obligations on Parties of Convention: Ban on new mercury mines, the phase-out of existing ones. Phase out and phase down of mercury use in a number of products and processes. Control measures on emissions to air and on releases to land and water. Regulation of the informal sector of artisanal and small-scale gold mining. Significance of Convention: It is implemented in context of sustainable development agenda with objective to protect human health and environment from anthropogenic emissions and releases of mercury and mercury compounds. Therefore, protects interest of the poor and vulnerable groups. It further urges enterprises to move to mercury-free alternatives in products and non-mercury technologies in manufacturing processes. This will drive R&D, and promote innovation. Mercury pollution: Mercury is global and ubiquitous metal that occurs naturally and has broad uses in everyday objects. It is released to the atmosphere, soil and water from a variety of sources such as burning coal for power plants, waste from industrial and medical products like batteries, measuring devices, such as thermometers and barometers, etc, extraction of minerals (smelting of gold), electric switches and relays in equipment, lamps (including some types of light bulbs) etc. Harmful effects: According to WHO, Mercury is considered as one of top ten hazardous chemicals of major public health concern. Once released into environment, mercury bio-accumulates and bio-magnifies in food chain and easily enters human body. It has toxic effects on nervous, digestive and immune systems and on lungs, kidneys, skin and eyes. Exposure to even small amount of mercury may cause serious health problems. It is threat to the development of child in utero and early in life. It may also cause skin rashes and dermatitis. Note: Mercury is the only metallic element that is liquid at standard conditions for temperature and pressure.

3) The Union Cabinet has approved signing and ratification of protocol amending Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and China. The DTAA aims for avoidance of double taxation and prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income and update the provisions on exchange of information of the DTAA to the latest international standards. Key Facts: The amending protocol updates existing provisions of DTAA for exchange of information to the latest international standards. It also incorporates changes required to implement treaty related minimum standards under Action reports of Base Erosion & Profit shifting (BEPS) Project, in which India also had participated. It will also bring in changes as per BEPS Action reports as agreed upon by two countries. Background: In 2016, India had signed multilateral convention to implement measures to prevent shifting of profits by multinational companies (MNCs) to low-tax nations as way to avoid paying taxes. It was outcome of Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD)/G20 BEPS project. The convention aims to BEPS through tax planning strategies that exploit gaps and mismatches in tax rules to artificially shift profits to low or no-tax nations where there is little or no economic activity, resulting in little or no overall corporate tax being paid. The Final BEPS Project had identified 15 actions to address BEPS in comprehensive manner. Its implementation requires changes to more than 3,000 bilateral tax treaties making it burdensome and time consuming process. In view of this, convention was conceived as multilateral instrument in order to swiftly modify all covered bilateral tax treaties to implement BEPS measures. The convention implements two minimum standards related to prevention of treaty abuse and dispute resolution through mutual agreement procedure.

4) The Union Cabinet has approved second round of Discovered Small Field (DSF) auctions under Discovered Small Field Policy. The auction will offer total of 60 discovered small fields/un-monetized discoveries with an estimated 194.65 Million Metric tonnes of oil. Key Facts: Of the 60 fields, 22 fields belong to Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), 5 to Oil India Limited (OIL), 12 are relinquished discovered fields from New Exploration and Licensing Policy (NELP) blocks. It also includes 21 fields that did not receive any investor interest in first round of DSF (i.e. DSF I). The Empowered Committee of Secretaries (ECS) comprising of Secretary (Petroleum & Natural Gas), Secretary (Expenditure) and Law Secretary will finalize and approve Model Revenue Sharing Contract, and other documents for DSF Round-ll. The award of contract will be approved later by Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas and Minister of Finance based on the recommendations of ECS. Significance: These fields will be developed and monetized faster. It will augment production of oil and gas leading to enhance energy security of the country. The investments into these fields will lead to estimated generation of over 88,000 jobs as direct, indirect and induced employment. This policy will be also extended for future round of bidding. Background: The Union Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas had launched first round of DSF in May 2016 under new liberalized DSF policy. Under it, 46 contract areas consisting of 67 fields spread across 9 sedimentary basins were auctioned. The auctions had witnessed 134 e-bids for 34 contact area. Later, 22 companies were shortlisted for 31 contract areas of which 15 companies were new entrants with no prior experience in the sector.

5) Cabinet approves placing new recommendation adopted by International Labour Organization (ILO) concerning “The Employment and Decent Work for Peace and Resilience (Recommendation No-205) before Parliament. Key Facts: The Recommendation No.-205 was adopted at 106th Session of International Labour Conference of ILO in Geneva in June, 2015. India also had supported the adoption of Recommendation. Its adoption and placing for information of Parliament does not create any immediate obligation on countries. ILO Recommendations are non-binding instrument which seeks to serve as guiding principle for national policy process. Recommendation No-205: It is applicable to all workers and jobseekers and employers in all sectors of economy affected by crisis situations arising from conflicts and disasters and to workers engaged in crisis response. Obligations on members: Member states should adopt phased multi-track approach implementing coherent and comprehensive strategies for promoting peace, preventing crises, enabling recovery and building resilience. The approach must include promoting local economic recovery for employment and decent work opportunities and socio-economic reintegration, social protection and social inclusion, sustainable development. It also calls for creation of sustainable enterprises in particular small and medium-sized enterprises and ensures consultation and encourage active participation of employers’ and workers’ organizations in planning, implementing and monitoring measures for recovery and resilience. International Labour Organization (ILO): The ILO is United Nations agency dealing with labour issues, particularly international labour standards, social protection, and work opportunities for all. It was established in 1919 as an agency of the League of Nations and is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland. India is a founder member of the ILO. At present, it has 187 members. The principal means of action in the ILO is the setting up of International standards in the form of Conventions, Recommendations and Protocol. So far, India has ratified 45 Conventions, out of which 42 are in force. Out of these 4 are Core or Fundamental or Conventions.

6) The Union Cabinet approved signing of Memoranda of Understanding (MoU) for Secondment Programme between India and Australia. The MoU will be signed between Department of Economic Affairs (DEA)-Indian Economic Service Cadre and The Treasury, Government of Australia for period of three months. Key Facts: Under the Secondment Programme, one officer from Australian Treasury will be seconded to DEA, Ministry of Finance and one officer from IES (at Deputy Secretary/Director level) nominated by IES Cadre, DEA will be seconded to Australian Treasury, Government of Australia, for period of three months. The validity of both MoUs will terminate at end of the three months’ period of assignment and will not be extendable. The programme may be repeated in subsequent years with mutual consultation and after agreement on both sides. Significance: Australia is one of the important bilateral partners of India. The proposed Secondment Programme will help to deepen understanding of current economic policy issues in both countries. It will also help to explore further opportunities for future collaboration and engagement. It will also provide the seconded officers with valuable and unique development opportunities and also provide exposure on global best practices.

7) Nine member committee constituted by Karnataka government has recommended separate state flag. It submitted report on designing separate flag for the state and providing a legal standing for it. It has discounted any constitutional or legal hurdles for it. Key Facts: The committee has recommended new tricolour having yellow (at top), white (in middle) and red (at bottom) colorus, with state’s emblem Gandaberunda (a two-headed mythological bird) in centre. It has changed pattern of earlier unofficial flag having yellow and red which is unofficially used now. The white colour in new flag symbolizes peace and captures Karnataka’s image the best, while other two colours are synonymous with Kannada identity. Centres Approval: After getting formal state Cabinet approval, state government will make a formal application to Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) under whose purview the issue falls to amend the Flag Code 2002. The amendment will add provisions of including Karnataka flag as one of the symbols in the Flag Code. Background: The committee was headed by the principal secretary, Department of Kannada and Culture and was set up in June 2017 after a representation from noted Kannada writer and journalist Patil Puttappa, and social worker Bheemappa Gundappa Gadada had requested state government to design a separate flag for ‘Kannada Naadu’ and accord it legal standing. Currently, unofficial yellow and red ‘Kannada flag’ is hoisted in state on 1 November every year to commemorate state formation day. It was designed by Veera Senani Ma.Ramamurthy in the 1960s. Comment: At present, there is no provision allowing or disallowing state to have separate flag, even there has been no precedent. Jammu and Kashmir is only state having its own flag as it enjoys special powers under Article 370 of Constitution. It had adopted its own flag in 2015. Under Article 144 of J&K Constitution, the state flag is red in colour with three equidistant white vertical strips of equal width next to staff and white plough in middle with handle facing the strips.

8) Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) under its “Development of Solar Cities” scheme has sanctioned development of 60 Solar Cities including 13 Pilot and 5 Model Cities up to 12th Five-year Plan period (2012–2017). So far, master plans of 49 Solar Cities have been prepared. Moreover, Stake-holders Committees have been constituted in 21 Cities and Solar City Cells have been created in 37 Solar Cities. Development of Solar Cities scheme: The Scheme aims at reducing minimum 10% in projected demand of conventional energy at end of five years, through combination of enhancing supply from renewable energy sources in city and energy efficiency measures. Under it, local Governments are motivated for adopting renewable energy technologies and energy efficiency measures. Solar City developed under this scheme will have all types of renewable energy based projects like solar, wind, biomass, small hydro, waste to energy etc. It may be installed alongwith possible energy efficiency measures depending on the need and resource availability in the city. Objectives of Solar City Scheme: Enable and empower Urban Local Governments (ULBs) to address energy challenges at City-level. Provide framework and support to prepare Master Plan including assessment of current energy situation, future demand and action plans. Oversee the implementation of sustainable energy options through public-private partnerships (PPPs). Build capacity in ULBs and create awareness among all sections of civil society. Involve various stakeholders in the planning process.

9) The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is going to launch pilot project of Pay as you use tolling on the Delhi Mumbai national highway to study implement ability of system in the country. The pilot project involves implementing a satellite based electronic toll collection system running on GPS/GSM technology for around 500 commercial vehicles on selected national highway for one year. Key Facts: The proposed tolling system will work on combination of mobile telecommunications technology (GSM) and satellite-based Global Positioning System (GPS). It will be able to deduct money from vehicle account, credit money to concessionaire within one day and open toll gate. In case of failed transaction it will be able to alert toll operator to collect payment manually and not open the gate. The pilot project will look at ways to integrate new solution with existing pre-paid wallet account offered under FASTag program by NHAI. It will also draw comparison between distance based tolling and existing tolling system, as also between virtual tolling and normal tolling.

10) Foundation stone of Rhodendron Park was laid in Tawang district of Arunachal Pradesh by Chief Minister Pema Khandu. Tawang district was once home to about 100 species of rhododendron but now they have been reduced to only 50 plus species due to construction activities in border areas. Key Facts: The park will be built in total area of 1.15 hectares. It will be partly funded under border area development programme (BADP). More than 30 species of rhododendrons would be planted and conserved in park where terrace cutting to raise the beauty and scenic component. The park will also have modern nursery, information center on rhododendron, resting sheds, public toilet facility, vehicle parking facility, signage and lightings and iron security gate. It will add to the scenic enhancement of city and also offer an opportunity for conservation of rhodo species, which are under serious threat due to various ongoing road and land acquisition projects. Rhododendron: Rhododendron is a genus of 1,024 species of woody plants in heath family (Ericaceae). It is either evergreen or deciduous. Most species of Rhododendron have brightly coloured flowers which bloom from late winter through to early summer. It is also found mainly in Asia and also widespread throughout highlands of Appalachian Mountains of North America. It is the national flower of Nepal.

11) Google and National Council of Educational Research and Training (NCERT) has signed a pact to integrate a course on ‘Digital Citizenship and Safety’ in information and communication technology (ICT) curriculum. The pact was signed on ‘Safer Internet Day’ (February 6). The course aims to bring awareness amongst the young generation of India to make Internet a Safe space. Key Facts: The Digital Citizenship and Safety course by Google India aims to bring social, ethical and legal aspects of internet safety and usage via structured in-class lessons. The complete course is divided into four categories (themes) viz Being Smart, Being Safe, Being a Digital Citizen and Being Future Ready. The course aims to grow gradually with internet usage of children from elementary classes to senior secondary. The modules (categories) of the course are made to engage kids and match pace with their intellectual and inquisitive nature. The basic modules of the course aim to make the children aware of Internet Safety, advanced topics like Privacy, Device Management, Intellectual Property (IP) and Reputation Management are added included as children grow, gradually moving towards Online Financial Literacy and Cyber Crime to shape them as Digital Citizens. In addition, Google has also created curriculum for teachers so that they can help students learn all about digital citizenship in their classrooms.

12) Only two Indian institutes have featured in the top 50 Asian institutes in recently released TIMES Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings for educational institutes in Asia. The two institutes that have made their way to top 50 are Indian Institute of Science (29th rank) and Indian Institute of Technology, Bombay (44). Key Highlights of Rankings: Other institutes that have made their way to top 100 are IIT Kharagpur, IIT Roorkee, IIT Kanpur, and IIT Delhi. The ranks as released by the World University Ranking are: Indian Institute of Science (rank 29), IIT Bombay (44), IIT Kharagpur (60), IIT Roorkee (65), IIT Kanpur (81) and IIT Delhi (86). Other Indian institutes that have made it to top 200 are Tezpur University (100), IIT Madras (103), IIT Guwahati (112), Panjab University (114), National Institute of Technology, Rourkela (126), Jadavpur University (127), Indian School of Mines (141), University of Delhi (144), Aligarh Muslim University (158), Savitribai Phule Pune University ( 188) and IIT-BHU (194). Total of 17 institutes from India have made their way to top 200 Asian Universities in comparison to last year. Though representation of India has increased in list, several of the universities have fallen down the rankings. Both IISc and IIT Bombay have dropped two places each to 29 and 44 position respectively. IIT Madras has witnessed biggest decline this year and has fallen from last year’s 41 place to 103 this year.

13) Indigenously developed short-range nuclear capable ballistic Agni-1 was successfully test-fired from mobile launcher located at Integrated Test Range of Dr Abdul Kalam Island (Wheeler Island) off the Odisha. The missile was tested as part of a periodic training activity by the Strategic Forces Command (SFC) of the Indian Army to consolidate operational readiness. It is claimed to be part of India’s minimum credible deterrence under No first to use policy. Agni-1 Missile: Agni-1 is indigenously developed intermediate range surface-to-surface, single-stage missile. It was developed by Advanced Systems Laboratory (ASL) in collaboration with Defence Research Development Laboratory (DRDL) and Research Centre Imarat (RCI). ASL is the premier missile development laboratory of DRDO. The missile weighs around 12 tonnes and is propelled by a solid rocket propellant system The missile already has been inducted into the armed forces (service) in 2004. It has proved its performance in terms of range, accuracy and lethality. The last trial of missile was successfully conducted in November 2016 from the same base.

14) Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) under Commerce Ministry has unveiled Start-up-India ranking framework to rank states/UTs based on measures regions that have taken to foster entrepreneurship. It was launched by Union Minister of Commerce and Industry at a function held in New Delhi. Startup States and UTs Ranking Framework: The framework aims to foster competitiveness and propel states/UTS to act proactively in startup matters. This ranking will help states to bring progress made in their startup ecosystem and also make different states learn and replicate good practices. Its objective is to encourage States/UTs to take proactive steps towards strengthening Startup ecosystems at local level. The parameters of this feedback focus on all actions and initiatives undertaken by states on or before March 2018. These parameters include having startup cell or helpline and mobile or web portal for queries, size of startup mentor network created by state government and number of key incubators for incubation support to startups. It also gives greater thrust like seed funding support, women entrepreneurship. Background: India is home to about 20,000 startups, with about 1,400 beginning operations every year. They are driving economic growth and also leading to technological innovations and employment generation in every state. Entrepreneurs in these startups are introducing new solutions everyday and also are improving existing processes. Thus, this framework will encourage and help statrups and help government to create policies for ease of doing business for startups.

15) The Commerce and Industry Ministry (DIPP) has launched three tools to rank states and union territories on the basis of measures taken by them to promote budding entrepreneurs. These tools are the start-up-India ranking framework, compendium of good practices for promoting startups in India and Startup India Kit. They will help promote the start-up drive. Startup India Compendium of Good Practises: It aims at promoting Startups in India and focuses on enriching startup ecosystem through ethical behaviours. It is currently followed by 18 States/UTs. It covers 95 good practises across 7 areas of intervention for evaluating the performance of startup ecosystem in states/UTs. These are distilled into 38 action points including Incubation Support, Seed Funding, Angel & Venture Funding, Startup Policy & Implementation, Simplified Regulations, Easing Public Procurement, Awareness & Outreach. Startup India Kit: It is primarily a one-stop guide on all Startup India offerings. It offers vital information, advice and assistance through website links, statistics, tools, templates, events, competitions and a glossary on startup terms. All the benefits available to startups from the Startup India initiative can be found in the kit.

16) The Fifth edition of South Asia Region Public Procurement Conference was held in New Delhi. It was hosted by Public Procurement Division (PPD) of Ministry of Finance and All India Management Association (AIMA). It was held under auspices of South Asia Region Public Procurement Network (SARPPN), which is sponsored and facilitated by the World Bank, Asian Development Bank and Islamic Development Bank. Key Facts: The theme this edition of conference was “Public Procurement and Service Delivery”. It aims to strive to improve public procurement of member countries to ensure timely and quality delivery of public services. Its objective was to enable heads of Public Procurement and other key stakeholders in 8 South Asian countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Afghanistan) to meet and learn from one another and from experts in field of public procurement. It will help South Asian Governments to consider enhancements and innovations in their public procurement systems, enable efficient utilization of public resources, ensure quality and timeliness in delivery of services. Background: The First Conference was held in Kathmandu in 2010, second in Islamabad (2014), third in Dhaka (2015) and fourth in Sri Lanka (2017). All eight SAR countries spend approximately $550 billion equivalent on public procurement of goods, works and services, which eventually convert to public services.

17) Search engine giant Google has launched ‘#SecurityCheckKiya’ campaign in India to create awareness around Internet safety. It was launched on the occasion of Safer Internet Day (6 February). The campaign aims to protect first-time web users from account hijacking, safeguard Android devices from malicious apps and secure all their personal data if they lose their device. Key Facts: Under campaign, Google has recommended three simple steps for Internet safety. It includes reviewing security settings and Google account activity with one click for all Android devices and Gmail users. The campaign is targeted at young and first-time users to protect themselves from account hijacking. It is also aimed at shielding Android mobile devices from malicious apps. Google Security check helps users to automatically scan for any vulnerability and guides them to keep their account safe in a few minutes. Moreover ‘Google Play Protect’ service scans and checks Android devices for any harmful apps. Find My Device app from Google helps a user to easily locate a lost Android device and keeps the device and information secure, according the firm.

18) Ministry of Science & Technology has set up Mechanism in Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) to interact with Small-Scale Industry (SSI) for transfer of Technology from CSIR Labs. Nodal officer in CSIR will coordinate with the SSIs and CSIR labs for appropriate technology required by them. SSI sector is largest employment provider in country, next to agriculture. It contributes almost 40% of gross industrial value added in Indian economy. Key Facts: CSIR covers wide spectrum of S&T–from radio and space physics, oceanography, geophysics, earth sciences, chemicals, drugs, genomics, biotechnology, nanotechnology, mining, materials, aeronautics, instrumentation, environmental engineering and information technology. CSIR laboratories have patented over 1,000 technologies and processes, which are available for commercial exploitation. Some of these technologies have been commercialised. They are willing to work with user industries to develop applications and products to meet the needs of the market. CSIR: CSIR is an autonomous body and India’s premier research and development (R&D) organisation.

19) The Union Finance Ministry is planning to ban cryptocurrencies from payments system and at the same time appoint regulator to oversee unregulated exchanges that trade in crypto assets. The Dinesh Sharma committee constituted by the Government to look into issues relating to cryptocurrencies will finalise its recommendations by submiting its report in current fiscal year, ending on March 2018. Background: In Union Budget 2018-19, finance minister Arun Jaitley had said that government does not consider cryptocurrencies legal tender and it will take all measures to eliminate use of crypto assets in financing illegitimate activities or as part of payment system. Earlier, Government had issued repeated warnings against digital currency investments, saying these were like “ponzi schemes” that offer unusually high returns to early investors. Crypto Currencies: Crypto Currencies or Virtual Currencies are type of unregulated digital money. They are mainly decentralised peer-to-peer system, and transacted between users directly, without an intermediary. These transactions are verified by network nodes and recorded in public distributed ledger called blockchain. They are neither issued by central bank/public authority, nor is necessarily attached to fiat currency, but is used and accepted among the members of a specific virtual community. They are being transferred, stored or traded electronically. The examples of virtual currencies are Bitcoin, Litecoin, Darkcoin, Peercoin, Dogecoin, Primecoin etc.

20) The ‘Pelican Bird Festival-2018’ was held for first in Atapaka Bird Sanctuary on at Kolleru lake in Andhra Pradesh. It was jointly organised by Andhra Pradesh Tourism Authority (APTA) and Krishna district administration. Background: During winter season, thousands of pelicans, painted storks and other birds migrate to Kolleru lake. During their stay they roost, breed and later fly away with their off springs. Recently, Atapaka Bird Sanctuary was recognised as one of the largest pelicanry in the world. Kolleru lake: Kolleru Lake is one of the largest freshwater lakes in India located in Andhra Pradesh. It is located between Krishna and Godavari deltas. Many birds migrate here in winter, such as Siberian crane, ibis, and painted storks.

21) India has contributed additional $1 million to India-UN Development Partnership Fund, earmarked for South-South cooperation. The contribution aims to intensify its partnerships with other developing countries in south. India has pledged multi-year contribution of $100 million to the fund established in June 2017. India has already provided $6 million within the seven months since launch of fund. India-UN Development Partnership Fund: The fund was set up on 9 June 2017 on occasion of the World Oceans Day as a partnership between India and United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC). It will be utilized to carry out country-level projects that would be catalytic towards achieving 17 sustainable development goals (SDGs) of 2030 Agenda. The fund is managed by UNOSSC. It prioritises projects reducing poverty and hunger, improving health, education and equality, and expanding access to clean water and energy and livelihoods. It mainly focuses on transformational sustainable development projects in Least Developed Countries (LDCs) and Small Island Developing States. The projects under fund are implemented by UN agencies in close collaboration with partnering governments. Present Status: So far, it has developed an impressive portfolio of projects including in climate resilience, improving maternal health, youth employment, agricultural development, and infrastructure. It is also helping with reconstruction efforts in hurricanes-affected countries. Its first project is Climate Early Warning System for Pacific Island Countries. United Nations Office for South-South Cooperation (UNOSSC): The UNOSSC was established with an objective to promote, coordinate and support South-South and triangular cooperation across world within the UN system. It has its genesis in 1974 when UN General Assembly (UNGA) had endorsed establishment of special unit to promote technical cooperation among developing countries within United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). In 2012, the special unit was given name UNOSSC by the UNGA through a resolution. UNOSSC receives policy directives and guidance from the UNGA.

22) The Chief of US Air Force, General David L Goldfein flew a sortie in indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas at the Indian Air Force (IAF) station in Jodhpur, Rajasthan. With this he became first foreign military chief to fly Tejas aircraft. He was accompanied by Air Vice Marshal AP Singh as a co-pilot during the short flight. General Goldfein was on an official visit to India to boost defence ties between the two nations. Earlier in November 2017, Defence Minister of Singapore Ng Eng Hen was flown in a Tejas fighter jet. LCA Tejas: The indigenous LCA is a single-seat, single-jet engine, multirole light fighter.  The first squadron of LCA Tejas named as ‘Flying Daggers’ based in Sulur, Tamil Nadu was inducted in July 2016.

23) Sweden has singed Strategic Partnership Agreement with United Nations for committing record $370 million dollars to UN World Food Programme. The contribution is for next four years i.e. 2018-2021. It is the biggest ever contribution made by donor within a WFP Strategic Partnership Agreement. Significance: Sweden has been the largest donor of flexible and predictable funds to WFP for almost a decade. The Swedish contribution comes at time of record need as the world is facing worst humanitarian crisis since the end of World War II with multiple large-scale hunger emergencies occurring across the planet. For the first time in decade, the number of hungry people in world is increasing and majority of them now live in countries affected by conflict. Ten of the 13 largest food crises on the planet are driven mainly by conflict. World Food Programme (WFP): The WEF is the food-assistance branch of the United Nations. . It is headquartered in Rome (Italy) and has more than 80 country offices around the world. It provides food assistance to an average of 80 million people in 75 countries each year.

24) The Maratha Light Infantry celebrated 250 years of its existence on 4 February 2018. The first battalion of regiment was raised as ‘Second Battalion Bombay Sepoys’ on this day in 1768. Maratha Light Infantry Day: February 4 is celebrated as “Maratha Light Infantry Day” across the regiment throughout the country. The date holds historic significance as on this day in 1670, Maratha ruler Chhatrapati Shivaji conquered famous Kondana Fort (now known as Sinhgad) near Pune, Maharashtra. Maratha Light Infantry: The Maratha Light Infantry is infantry regiment of the Indian Army. It was formed in 1768, making it most senior light infantry regiment of the Army. At present, it has around 21 regular battalions, four Rashtriya Rifles battalions, and two Territorial Army battalions. It is the only regiment which has contributed two battalions of special forces to Indian Army. The regiment also has an affiliation with 10 Mechanised Infantry regiments, two artillery regiments and an air defence regiment in the Army. It also has inter-service affiliation with Indian Naval Ship (INS) Mumbai, 20th Squadron Air Force (Sukhoi) and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) air station in Daman and Diu. Awards and Honours: The Maratha Light Infantry was bestowed with rare honour of winning two Victoria crosses to two of its soldiers- N.K. Yeshwant Ghadge and Sepoy Namdev Jadhav. It was also first infantry regiment of the Army to be awarded the title of ‘Light Infantry’ during the First Afghan War in 1841. It also has proud history of gallantry as it was honoured with 15 battle honours in the First World War.

25) Senior IPS officer Sudeep Lakhtakia took charge as the new Director General of National Security Guard (NSG). He succeeds S P Singh who retired from the post and will hold post till July 2019. Sudeep Lakhtakia is 1984-batch IPS officer of the Telangana cadre. Prior to this post, he was serving as a Special Director General in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) headquarters in New Delhi. National Security Guard (NSG): NSG is a Federal Contingency Deployment Force under Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).NSG personnel are often referred as Black Cats because of black dress and black cat insignia worn on their uniform. The NSG is trained to conduct counter terrorist task to including counter hijacking tasks on land, sea, and air, Bomb disposal and Post Blast Investigation (PBI) and Hostage Rescue missions. It is intended for use only in exceptional situations and not meant to take over functions of State Police Forces or other Para Military Forces.

26) The Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has launched Green Good Deeds campaign. It was launched by Environment Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan in New Delhi. The purpose of the people-oriented campaign is to sensitise people and students, in particular about climate change and global warming. Key Facts: Environment Minister has asked teaching community to join a campaign to sensitise all about climate change and global warming, which he termed was matter of concern for the world. He also underlined need for ‘Green Sainiks’ on the lines of ‘Polio Sainiks’ to broaden the ‘Green Good Deeds’ campaign and take it to the grassroots level. The campaign aims to broad its base with involvement of teachers, students and other voluntary organisations.

27) The World Cancer Day (WCD) is observed every year on 4 February across the world to raise awareness of cancer and to encourage its prevention, detection, and treatment. Its primary goal is to reduce the illness and related deaths by 2020. The theme (tagline) for this year is “We can. I can”. It reflects on what everyone can do to raise awareness of cancer and asks to take pledge and action in fight against cancer. “We can. I can” is special three-year campaign for the World Cancer Day from year 2016 to 2018. It seeks to explore how everyone- as individuals or as a collective – can do their part to reduce the burden of cancer globally. Background: The WCD was instituted by Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) in 2008 by formally writing goals of the World Cancer Declaration. The primary goal of observing the day is to reduce illness and death caused by it by 2020. The origin of day can be traced to 2000 at first World Summit Against Cancer, which was held in Paris, France. UICC: It is Geneva based leading international non-governmental organisation (NGO) founded in 1933. Its purpose is to help the global health community to accelerate the fight against cancer. It has a membership of over 800 organisations spread across 155 countries.

28) The book “Exam Warriors” authored by Prime Minister Narendra Modi s released by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj at a function in New Delhi. The books aims to inspire youth to face the difficult moments of examinations and life with fresh and new energy. It emphasizes the importance of play, sleep & even travel. Key Facts: The 193-page book is written in fun, interactive manner with colourful illustration, activities, yoga exercises and intended to be friend to youths in acing exams and also in facing life. It is published by Penguin India. Currently, it is available in English and will soon be published in multiple languages. It also contains a letter from the Prime Minister to the teachers and parents. The book also offers ’25 mantras’ to the students and urges them to treat examinations as “a festival” and “celebrate it”

29) India has won Under-19 ICC World Cup 2018 by defeating Australia by eight wickets. With this victory, India became first nation to win Under-19 World Cup four times. It was India’s sixth appearance in the under-19 World Cup finals. Australia had made into the final five times, winning the tournament three times. Key Facts: The 2018 final match was played at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui, New Zealand. Australia, choosing to bat first after winning the toss had set target of 216 runs (10 wickets) in 47.2 overs. India in the chase, scored 220-2 in the 39th over. India’s opener Manjot Kalra who scored 101 runs from 102 balls became second player in history to score century in ICC U-19 World Cup final, after Unmukt Chand. Indian team was led by Parthiv Shah and was coached by former batsman Rahul Dravid. ICC Under-19 Cricket World Cup: It is an international cricket tournament organised by International Cricket Council (ICC) and contested by national under-19 teams. It was first contested in 1988 as the Youth World Cup and later was not staged again until 1998. Since then, it is held as biennial event by the ICC. Previous winners: Australia (1988), England (1998), India (2000), Australia (2002), Pakistan (2004), Pakistan (2006), India (2008), Australia (2010), India (2012), South Africa (2014) and West Indies (2016).

30) The SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank of India) and ratings agency Crisil have launched CriSidEx, India’s first MSE Sentiment Index for micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). The index will help to indicate the current state and expected outlook on the MSME sector every quarter. CriSidEx: CRISIL-SIDBI MSE Sentiment Index (or CriSidEx) has been developed jointly by CRISIL and SIDBI. It is a composite index based on diffusion index of 8 parameters. It measures MSE business sentiment on a scale of 0 (extremely negative) to 200 (extremely positive). The parametric feedback for the index will be captured through a survey of 1100 MSEs. CriSidEx will have 2 indices, one for ‘survey quarter’ and another for ‘next quarter’. Once trend emerges after few rounds of survey, it will provide independent time series data. Significance of index: Provide crucial insights into employment, business environment and foreign trade in MSME sector. Allow policy makers to take timely proactive steps, including those based on early warnings thrown up by survey of index. Provide intelligence and insights for regulators, trade bodies, lenders as well as economic and financial analysts. Help in forecasting business environment by capturing sentiment on various business parameters such as business situation, capacity utilisation, order book and margins. Flag potential headwinds and changes in production cycles in MSME sector and thus help in improving market efficiencies.

31) The 32nd edition of Surajkund International Crafts Mela was held at Faridabad, Haryana. It was formally inaugurated by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in the presence of Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar. It is annual cultural festival hosted since 1987 to showcase richness and diversity of the handicrafts and cultural heritage of India. This year Uttar Pradesh is theme state and Kyrgyzstan is the partner nation. Key facts: The Mela is organized every year by Surajkund Mela Authority and Haryana Tourism in collaboration with Union Ministries of Tourism, Textiles, Culture and External Affairs Ministry. The 15-day festival showcases richness and diversity of handicrafts, handlooms and cultural heritage of the country. The festival’s name Surajkund derives its name from ancient amphitheatre constructed in 10th century AD by Raja Suraj Pal, one of Tomar chieftains. This is unique monument was built to worship Sun God (Surya) and it resembles a Greek amphitheatre. This year Uttar Pradesh as theme state showcased its religious tourism, rural tourism and spiritual tourism apart from its art, culture and heritage. 29 countries also took part in this edition of Mela. It also showcased religious tourism circuit — such as Ayodhya, Kashi, Mathura apart from the art, culture, and heritage of UP.

32) The Floating Treatment Wetland (FTW) was inaugurated on World Wetlands Day (February 2) in Neknampur Lake in Hyderabad to clean and purify the polluted waterbody. Plants planted on FTW can clean the lake by absorbing nitrates and other pollutants in the water. Key Facts: FTW is joint effort of NGO Dhruvansh, Hyderabad Metropolitan Development Authority (HMDA), district administration and other organisations. It measures around 3,000 sq. ft and comprises four layers viz. floatable bamboo at base, styrofoam cubicles above it. The third layer consists of gunny bags and gravels on final layer to support cleaning agents (plants). Cleaning agents planted on FTW include vetivers, cattalis, canna, bulrush, citronella, hibiscus, fountain grass, flowering herbs, tulsi and ashvagandha. FTW’s working is based on soil-less hydroponics technique. Hydroponics permits plants to grow only on sunlight and water. There is no need of soil. There are small holes at bottom of base which facilitates flow of nutrients from water to plants through biological uptake process. Micro-organisms growing on FTW and plant root systems of cleaning agents break down and consume organic matter in water through microbial decomposition. The root systems filter out sediments and pollutants, reduce content of these chemicals from waterbody.

33) The Union Government has announced Rs.1.4 lakh-crore Kisan Urja Suraksha evam Utthaan Mahaabhiyan (KUSUM) scheme for promoting solar farming i.e. decentralised solar power production of up to 28,250 MW to help farmers. The Union Budget 2018-19 has allocated Rs. 48,000 crore for the scheme for the ten-year period. Key Facts: KUSUM scheme will start with building 10,000 MW solar plants on barren lands and providing 1.75 million off-grid agricultural solar pumps. It will provide extra income to farmers, by giving them an option to sell additional power to grid through solar power projects set up on their barren lands. It will help in de-dieselising the agriculture sector as India had about 30 million farm pumps that include 10 million pumps running on diesel. The surplus electricity generated by farmers will be bought by state electricity distribution companies (discoms). Thus it will help boost the country’s emerging green economy. Components of scheme: Building 10,000 MW solar plants on barren lands. Providing sops to DISCOMS to purchase the electricity produced, Solarising existing pumps of 7250 MW as well as government tube wells with a capacity of 8250 MW. Distributing 17.5 lakh solar pumps. Government will provide 60% subsidy on solar pumps to farmers. It will be shared between Centre and States while 30% will be provided through bank loans. The balance cost will be borne by farmers. Positive outcomes: It will promote decentralised solar power production, reduce of transmission losses of discoms as well as provide support to improve financial health of DISCOMs by reducing subsidy burden to agriculture sector. It will also promote energy efficiency and water conservation and provide water security to farmers.

34) Britain’s fertility regulator Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority (HFEA) has allowed doctors to create country’s first ‘three-parent’ babies through mitochondrial donation therapy (or MRT). This move is aimed at preventing passage of incurable genetic diseases from mothers to offsprings. Key Facts: HEFA has approved procedures to be applied on two women in the city of Newcastle in northeast England. The procedure will use MRT for the women, having neurodegenerative disorder genes which causes problem with movement or mental functioning.It will create first three parent baby in UK within a year. Mitochondrial Replacement Therapy (MRT): MRT or Mitochondrial donation is medical technique in which defective mitochondria carried by a woman is replaced with the healthy mitochondria of a donor. Through invitro fertilization technique (IVF), the egg is then fertilised with the partner’s sperm. Thus the embryo remains free from any such defects. The two most common techniques in mitochondrial donation are maternal spindle transfer and pronuclear transfer. UK was first country to officially pass law to allow three parent baby. But procedure was successfully tested in Mexico, giving birth to world’s first three parent baby in September 2016. Benefits: It will prevent transmission of mitochondrial (genetic) disease from one generation to the next. It will give parents chance of having a child that is over 99% genetically matched to them and most importantly free of the mitochondrial disease. It has no impact on personality or looks of the offspring from third DNA set, as surrogate mitochondrial DNA is separate from core DNA in cells.

35) Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) signed project agreement with World Bank and for Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) i.e. National Waterway-1 on Ganga River from Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh) to Haldia (West Bengal). It also inked US $375 million loan agreement for the project. Background: The signing of agreement follows approval of Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) for implementation of US $800 million JMVP for capacity augmentation of navigation on River Ganga. Out of remaining amount, $380 million will be sourced by Central Government’s counterpart funds from budgetary allocation and proceeds from bond issue. Another US $ 45 million will come from private sector participation under the PPP mode. Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP): The JMVP is being implemented by IWAI with the financial and technical support of World Bank. It will develop waterway between Varanasi and Haldia on Ganga River, covering distance of 1620 km by March, 2023. It will enable commercial navigation of vessels with capacity of 1500-2,000 tons on NW-I. The project covers Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand and West Bengal. It aims to develop fairway with three metres depth to enable commercial navigation of at least 1500 tonne vessels on river. It also includes development of fairway, multi-modal terminals, strengthening of open river navigation technique, conservancy works, modern River Information System (RIS) etc. Significance: JMVP will provide environment-friendly, fuel-efficient and cost-effective alternative mode of transportation, especially for bulk goods, hazardous goods and over-dimensional cargo. It is component of Eastern Transport Corridor (ETC) of India along with proposed Eastern Dedicated Freight Corridor (EDFC) and National Highway-2 (NH2). ETC will connect NCR with eastern and north-eastern states and function as link to neighbouring countries viz. Bangladesh, Nepal, Myanmar, Thailand and other east and south-east Asian countries.

36) The Ministry of Defence (Department of Defence Production) constituted a 17 member task force headed by Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran to study use and application of artificial intelligence (AI) in military. The task force will study the whole gamut of issues surrounding strategic implications of AI in national security perspective, in global context. Members: The task force comprises National Cyber Security Coordinator Gulshan Rai, representatives from Indian Army, Navy and Airforce, chairman of Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL), representatives from ISRO, Atomic Energy Commission and defence ministry. It also includes representation from academic institutes such as IISc-Bengaluru, and IIT Mumbai and Chennai. Background: Experts believe that AI has potential to provide military superiority apart from driving technology-driven economic growth. The future progress of AI has potential to have transformative impact on national security. It is also seen that AI is essentially dual use technology i.e. it can fuel technology driven economic growth and also has potential to provide military superiority. India has a strong talent pool of engineers which are advantages which need to be leveraged. Artificial intelligence: AI is branch of computer science concerned with making computers behave like humans. In contrast to normal hardware and software, AI enables a machine to perceive (i.e. to think) and respond to its changing environment.

37) Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) has inked Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Russian firm United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC) to develop specialized vessels for Inland and Coastal shipping. Both firms will collaborate and engage in Design, Development and Execution of contemporary, state-of-Art vessels for Inland and Coastal Waterways. It will mainly include development of High-Speed Vessels, Passenger Vessels, River-Sea Cargo Vessels, Dredgers and other watercrafts for inland waterways and coastal shipping. Significance of MoU: It will give a push to Government’s Make-in-India programme. It will augment capacity to develop eco-friendly and economic transportation along India’s inland waterways and coastal shipping routes under Sagarmala Project. It will cater demand for different kinds of specialized vessels in the near and medium term for water based transport infrastructure. Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL): CSL has recently incorporated as a Joint Venture (JV) Company called HCSL (Hooghly Cochin Shipyard Limited) at Kolkata, West Bengal. It will augment its capacity by setting up exclusive facility for construction and repair of vessels for inland and coastal waterways. United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC): USC is the largest shipbuilding holding in Russia that incorporates about 40 enterprises including shipyards, with more than 300 years of experience. It has played key role in the growth of inland waterways in Russia.

38) Union Finance minister Arun Jaitley presented Union Budget 2018 in Parliament. It is last full budget of Narendra Modi Government before 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Several new schemes were announced. Some of them are: National Health Protection Scheme. National Health Protection Scheme (Ayushman Bharat Scheme) will cover 10 crore poor and vulnerable families. Under it, up to Rs 5 lakh insurance cover will be provided to each family per year in secondary and tertiary care institutions. It will have 50 crore beneficiaries. It will be world’s largest government-funded healthcare programme. Operation Green: It will be launched with an allocation of Rs 500 crore on the lines of Operation Flood. The idea behind it is to double the income of farmers by the end of 2022. Eklavya School: Eklavya schools will be established for scheduled caste (SC) and schedule tribe students by 2022 on the lines of Navodaya schools. They will be model residential schools set up in each Block. It will in areas with more than 50% tribal areas and 20,000 tribal people. These schools will be part of Navodaya Vidyalayas. It will provide training in sports and skill development. It has special facilities for preserving local art and culture. Revitalising Infrastructure and Systems in Education (RISE) Scheme: RISE scheme aims to lend low-cost funds to government higher educational institutions. It will be launched with a total investment of Rs. 1 lakh crore in the next four years. It will be financed via restructured higher education financing agency (HEFA), a non-banking financial company. Prime Minister Fellowship Scheme. It is aimed at facilitating cutting edge research by provide high fellowship amounts to 1000 B. Tech students to pursue PhD in IITs and IISc. Its purpose is to make to produce better research in India and make its institutions climb up in global rankings. Kisan Credit Card to Fishermen and Cattle owners: Kisan Credit Card was extended to fishermen and cattle owners. It will enable them to avail the easier loans. It will help people associated with milk production business in rural areas by providing financial assistance and also to fisheries. Affordable Housing Fund (AHF): Affordable Housing Fund (AHF) will be created under National Housing Bank (NHB). It will be funded from priority sector lending shortfall and fully serviced bonds authorised by Central Government. Beyond this, he did not elaborate about the proposed Fund. It will be used to construct one crore households in the rural areas Pradhanmantri Awas Yojana. Gobar-Dhan Yojna: Gobar-Dhan Yojana (also known as Galvanizing Organic Bio-Agro Resource Fund scheme) aims to improve lives of the villagers. Under it, solid waste of dung and fields will be changed into compost, biogas and bio-CNG. National Bamboo Mission: Rs. 1,290 crore will be allocated under this scheme to help development of bamboo production as an industry in the country. This will help the people of rural and tribal areas.

39) Union Finance minister Arun Jaitley presented Union Budget 2018 in Parliament. It is last full budget of Narendra Modi Government before 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Economic Health: Economy firmly on course to achieve high growth of 8%. GDP growth at 6.3% in second quarter of 2017-18. Growth in second half likely to remain between 7.2% to 7.5% . Manufacturing, services, and exports sectors are back on good growth path. Fiscal Management: Budget Revised Estimates for Expenditure at Rs.21.57 lakh crore. R Fiscal Deficit estimates revised at 3.5% of GDP. Central Government’s Debt to GDP ratio to be brought down at 40%.

40) The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and American pharmaceutical giant Pfizer have inked MoU to establish a ‘Centre to Combat Antimicrobial Resistance’ in New Delhi. The centre will help in combating the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in India. Key Facts: The centre will help to expand ICMR’s Antimicrobial Stewardship Programme across country in phased manner with focus on smaller in-patient centres and also enhance its existing AMR Surveillance Programme by training specialists to run expanded network. It will also focus on awareness and advocacy programme using media and non-media platforms to disseminate information on antibiotic resistance and promote rational use of antibiotics. Significance: The partnership will help to implement series of comprehensive interventions, ranging from AMR stewardship programmes for nursing homes. It will scale up ICMR’s existing AMR surveillance programme by training specialists to run expanded India surveillance network that will cover both private and government hospitals to collate, analyse and publish drug resistance data across all geographies in India. National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance (NAP-AMR): The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare in April 2017 had finalised a NAP-AMR. It spells out six strategic priorities including improving awareness through communication, strengthening surveillance, education and training and promoting investments for AMR initiatives.

41) The 7th India Energy Congress (IEC) 2018 was held in New Delhi. The theme for this edition of conference was Energy 4.0: Energy Transition Towards 2030. It was organised by World Energy Council India (WEC India) and inaugurated byUnion Power and New and Renewable Energy Minister R K Singh. Key Facts: IEC is the flagship event of WEC India and joint event of Ministries of Power, Coal, New & Renewable Energy, Petroleum & Natural gas, External Affairs and Department of Atomic Energy. Over 400 experts participated in the Congress. They also discussed and debated on five sub-themes: Energy Investments in Uncertain World; Policy and Energy Environment 2030; Sustainable Mobility; Variable Renewable Energy Integration; and Reaching Last Mile.

42) India has joined Ashgabat Agreement which envisages facilitation of transit and transportation of goods between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf to significantly boost up trade and investment. It was informed by Turkmenistan, as depository state of the Agreement that all its four founding members have consented to accession of India. Ashgabat Agreement: Ashgabat Agreement aims at establishment of International Transport and Transit Corridor between the Iran, Oman, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan. It was signed in April 2011 and is named after capital of Turkmenistan, Ashgabat. It establishes international transport and transit corridor between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf countries. Pakistan is also its member since October 2016. Significance of accession to Agreement: It will enable India to utilise this existing transport and transit corridor to facilitate trade and commercial interaction and ties with Central Asia and Eurasian region. It will synchronise India’s efforts to implement the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) for enhanced connectivity. It will provide India an opportunity for reorientation of the freight traffic from the traditional sea route to land transcontinental routes. Background: India had deposited the Instrument of Accession with Turkmenistan in April 2016. Prior to it, the Union Cabinet had given its approval for India to accede to Ashgabat Agreement in March 2016.

43) The World Wetland Day (WWD) is observed every year on 2 February to raise awareness about the value of wetlands for humanity and the planet. This day marks the date of the adoption of the Convention on Wetlands (also called as Ramsar Convention) in 1971 in the Iranian city of Ramsar on the shores of the Caspian Sea. The theme for year 2018 is “Wetlands for a Sustainable Urban Future“. The theme underlines the importance of wetlands and that the future of urban centres hinges on wetlands. Background: For first time, World Wetland Day was celebrated in year 1997. Since then it is observed every year to spread awareness about Ramsar Convention in particular for conservation of Wetlands. The theme for year 2017 Theme was “Wetlands for Disaster Risk Reduction”. Wetlands: Wetlands are transitional lands between terrestrial and aquatic eco-systems where water table is usually at or near surface or land is covered by shallow water. It may be manmade or artificial. They support rich biodiversity and provide wide range of ecosystem services such as water storage, aquifer recharge, water purification, flood mitigation, erosion control, act as carbon sinks and others. Ramsar Convention: Ramsar Convention aim to raise public awareness on conservation, proper utilisation and management of wetlands and their resources. It also seeks to promote conservation and wise use of all wetlands through local, regional and national actions and international cooperation, as contribution towards achieving sustainable development throughout world.

44) Magahi writer Shesh Anand Madhukar was honoured with Sahitya Akademi Bhasha Samman award. He is second writer of Magahi language to be given this award. Magahi language: Magahi language also known as Magadhi is language spoken in Bihar-Jharkhand region of eastern India.  Magadhi has approximately 18 million speakers and has a very rich and old tradition of folk songs and stories. It has not been constitutionally recognised in India and was legally absorbed under Hindi in the 1961 Population Census. Shesh Anand Madhukar: Madhukar has been working extensively for the development of the Magahi language. He had started his career as lecturer in Hindi. He entered in the field of literature in 1960 and since then he has immensely contributed in enrichment of language. His poems have been published in leading literary magazines. In his long and illustrious career, he has large body of work to his credit in both Magahi and Hindi. Some of his well-acclaimed works in Hindi are Eklavya, Magahi Kavita Ke Bimb and Bhagwan Birsa. In Magahi, his well-acclaimed works are Eklavya and Magahi Bhulachal Hey. Bhasha Samman: It identifies and honours literary works in those languages which are equally spoken in different parts of country by are not among 24 regional language recognised for Sahitya Akademi Awards. The award is attempt to make writers of other languages feel equally important. The award comprises Rs 1 lakh cheque and memento.

45) Odisha Government has won ‘Geospatial World Excellence Award-2018’ for successful IT application for tracking of mineral production, dispatch and value accrued on real-time basis through its i3MS web-based software. The award was presented at the Geospatial World Forum Meeting held at Hyderabad, Telangana. The event was attended by more than 3,000 geospatial experts from 90 different countries. i3MS web-based software: i3MS is GPS-linked web-based software designed by scientists of Odisha Space Applications Centre (ORSAC), Bhubaneswar. This system has enabled for first time in India to fix GPS devices on large number of moving objects in the mining sector. Using it, daily production and dispatch are being recorded on real-time basis through this software. Moreover, State Steel and Mines Department uses it for watching live movement of 43,000 vehicles carrying minerals from production point to ports, railway sidings and end-user industrial units. All stakeholders like lessees, dealers and government departments have been brought on to this portal. It also was integrated with Regional Transport Office (RTO), Indian Railways, Commercial Tax Department, ports and treasury. Geospatial World Excellence Awards: It is internationally-acclaimed private award that recognizes exemplary innovations and practices in global geospatial industry.Geospatial Application Excellence Awards, Geospatial Technology Innovation Awards and Geospatial Policy Implementation Awards.

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