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  • WBCS Current Affairs 13 January 2018 to 19 January 2018
    Posted on January 13th, 2018 in Current Affairs, Weekly Current Affairs
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    WBCS Current Affairs 13 January 2018 to 19 January 2018

    The Importance of Current Affairs in W.B.C.S examinations is immense.Success inW.B.C.S  Prelims and W.B.C.S Mains Exam is mainly subjected to how well an aspirant is aware of the important current affairs. Preparation of current affairs for W.B.C.S is the key to unlock the exam.Continue Reading WBCS Current Affairs 13 January 2018 to 19 January 2018.

    1) The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has decided to set up Cyber Warrior Police Force (CWPF) and Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) to tackle internet-related crimes such as cyber threats, child pornography and online stalking. These divisions will be set up under MHA’s newly created Cyber & Information Security (CIS) Division. Cyber Warrior Police Force (CWPF): The CWPF is likely to operate under National Information Security Policy and Guidelines wing of MHA’s CIS division. It is proposed to be raised on lines of Central Armed Police Force (CAPF). So far, there has been no decision on the CWPF’s jurisdiction, where it will derive its powers or personnel from and whether it will be empowered to make arrests. Background: CIS Division was created in November 2017. It has four wings, namely Security Clearance, Cyber Crime Prevention, Cyber Security and Information Security Wings each headed by Under Secretary level Officer. Its two divisions cybercrime and information security have already begun operations. It is also proposed to appoint the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) and Deputy CISO. MHA has already issued communique asking states/UTs to consider setting up state as well as district cybercrime coordination cells. The State Cybercrime Coordination Cells be headed by additional director general (ADG) or inspector-rank official, and district cybercells by a deputy superintendent of police (DySP) or additional superintendent of police-level official. The State cyber security cells will form foundation of centralised CWPF.

    2) President Ram Nath Kovind presented Sangeet Natak Akademi’s Fellowships (Akademi Ratna) and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards (Akademi Puraskar) for the year 2016 at function held at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards: The Sangeet Natak Akademi’s Fellowships and Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards are recognised as among most coveted national honours bestowed on performing artists as well as teachers and scholars of performing arts in the country. They are given by Sangeet Natak Akademi, India’s National Academy of Music, Dance & Drama. Sangeet Natak Akademi Awards are given in categories of music, dance, theatre, other traditional arts and puppetry, and for contribution and scholarship in performing arts. The award since 2003 consists of Rs. 50,000, a citation, an angavastram (shawl), and tamrapatra (brass plaque).

    3) The 10th edition of Global Forum for Food & Agriculture was held in Berlin, Germany from 18th -20th January 2018. The theme of this year’s event is “Shaping the future of livestock – sustainably, responsibly, efficiently”. Indian delegation to the event is led by Union Minister of State (MoS) for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Gajendra Singh Shekhawat. Key Facts: The event was organised by Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Consumer Protection (BMEL) in cooperation with GFFA Berlin e.V., Senate of Berlin and Messe Berlin GmbH. It also included 10th Berlin Agriculture Ministers’ Conference. The discussions during the conference focussed on sustainable and productive animal production among other issues. Global Forum for Food and Agriculture (GFFA): The GFFA is international conference that focuses on central questions concerning future of global agri-food industry. It is world’s largest conference of agriculture ministers. It is held during International Green Week (IGW). It provides common platform to representatives from worlds of politics, business, science and civil society opportunity to share ideas and enhance understanding on selected topic of current agricultural policy.

    4) China has constructed Xian smog tower, an experimental air purifying tower touted to be the world’s biggest at height of over 100 meters (328 feet) in an attempt to fight air pollution. The tower is built in Xian in Shaanxi province and has brought positive effect on chronic smog problem in China. It is undergoing testing by researchers at Institute of Earth Environment at Chinese Academy of Sciences. Xian smog tower: Xian smog tower project was announced in 2015 to find low-cost method to artificially remove pollutants from atmosphere such as PM2.5, nitrates and sulphur dioxide which are the most harmful to human health. The polluted air is sucked into glasshouses of tower and is then heated up by solar energy. The hot air then moves through multiple cleaning filters and helps in reducing air pollution. The system in air purifier also works during winters as coatings on greenhouses enable glass to absorb solar radiation at higher efficiency. According to its original design, the full-sized tower will reach 500 metres (1,640 feet) high with diameter of 200 metres (656 feet). This tower size will capture greenhouses in nearly 30 square kilometres and will be capable of purifying the air for small-sized city. Signficance: During the tests, the tower has managed to produce more than 10 million cubic metres (353 million cubic feet) of clean air day since its launch. It was able to bring down the smog to moderate levels the day when air quality was severe. However, the results were preliminary as of now. It has also improved quality of air after observations were made over distance of 10 square kilometers in the past few months.

    5) Maharashtra became first state in country to unveil Public Cloud Policy that virtually mandates state government departments to shift their data storage onto cloud. Earlier in October 2017, State Government had formed four-member committee to draft policy framework on cloud usage, which had submitted a policy document that’s being now adopted as public cloud policy. Key Facts: The policy will result in additional private sector investments worth US $2 billion for cloud industry as government is one of biggest creators and consumers of data. It will aim to generate 5 lakh jobs in next five years. The policy is likely to be formally set in motion through detailed government resolution. In coming days, five to six top cloud service providers like Amazon or Microsoft will be empanelled for data storage onto cloud. Under the policy framework, state government will make mandatory its various departments for storing data within country and to use public cloud in cases wherever Right to Information Act (RTI) is applicable. Later, it will also allow for enhanced security features for private and sensitive data to be stored on the cloud. State Innovation and Start-up Policy: The State Cabinet headed by Chief Minister also had approved State Innovation and Start-up Policy. Its objective is to attract Rs.5,000 crore investments in development of incubation and start-ups. It will be applicable till 2022. Under it, on an average three incubators in each of the 12 designated sectors and develop at least 2,000 start-ups will be established in next five years. It will result in development of at least 10 lakh sq ft of incubation space within the state. It will provide Rs.2,500 crore for youth entrepreneurship activities (1% of State Budget). Under it, an establishment up to 5 years from date of its registration will be considered as start-up. Its annual turnover must be up to Rs. 25 crore. It should be based on innovative concept, innovative commercialisation of products and services or it can also be based on innovative production methods and processes.

    6) Drug price regulator National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has fixed retail price for 30 drug formulations, including those used for treatment of diabetes, bacterial infections and high blood pressure. The prices were fixed/revised under Drugs (Prices Control) Order (DPCO), 2013. National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA): NPPA is independent body under Department of Pharmaceuticals, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers. It was set up in 1997. Its mandate is to fix/revise controlled bulk drugs prices and formulations, enforce prices and availability of medicines under DPCO, 2013. It also monitors prices of decontrolled drugs in order to keep them at reasonable levels. The regulator implements and enforces the provisions of DPCO. It is also entrusted with task of recovering amounts overcharged by manufacturers for controlled drugs from consumers. Essential medicines: Essential medicines are those that satisfy the priority health care needs of the country’s population. They are listed with reference to the levels of healthcare namely primary, secondary and tertiary. They are generally based on the country’s disease burden, priority health concerns, affordability concerns etc. In India, National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) formed in 2011 decides the essential medicines. The list is prepared by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. NPPA fixes ceiling price of essential medicines of Schedule I under DPCO 2013. The calculation for essential drugs is based on simple average of all medicines in particular therapeutic segment with sales of more than 1%. In respect of medicines that are not under price control, manufacturers are allowed to increase the maximum retail price by 10% annually.

    7) Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu inaugurated iCREATE facility at Deo Dholera Village in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. iCreate aims to develop an ecosystem in India to generate quality entrepreneurs. iCreate: iCreate is an independent Centre established with an objective of facilitating entrepreneurship through blend of creativity, innovation, engineering, product design and leveraging emerging technologies. It main purpose is foster innovation to deal with major issues such as food security, water, connectivity, cybersecurity, IT and electronics, energy, bio-medical equipment and devices etc.

    8) The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Union Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has cleared procurement proposal of 72,400 assault rifles and 93,895 carbines on fast track basis for Rs 3,547 crore. DAC also simplified ‘Make II’ procedure which prescribes guidelines to be followed to develop and manufacture defence equipment through Indian Industry. Procurement of assault rifles: The procurement of assault rifles aims enable the Defence Forces to meet their immediate requirement for troops deployed on borders. They will be processed under government-to-government route to conclude deals at the earliest. Army had decided to go for two different rifles — import a high-tech rifle in small numbers for infantry soldiers on front lines and procure the indigenous rifle in large numbers to meet balance requirement. Make II procedure: The simplification of Make II procedure aims encourage participation of private sector in defence design and production and give boost to ‘Make in India’ programme in Defence Sector. Make II procedure prescribes guidelines to develop and manufacture defence equipment through Indian industry. The revised procedure will make the procedure industry friendly, with minimal government control. It will now allow Defence Ministry to accept suo motu proposals from industry and also allow start-ups to develop equipment for armed forces. The minimum qualification criteria to participate in ‘Make II’ projects also was relaxed by removing conditions related to credit rating and reducing financial net worth criteria. Now all vendors meeting criteria will be allowed to participate in prototype development process instead of only two vendors earlier. In addition there will be no need to submit detailed project report. After accord of approval by DAC, all clearances will be accorded by Service Head-Quarters (SHQ) which will also set up project facilitation teams to hand-hold the industry.

    9) The Department of Commerce has signed MoU with Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for setting-up institutional mechanism for the development of Logistics sector in the country. Both will work together for taking logistics sector to global levels both in terms of efficiency and cost. They will follow Commerce Ministry’s roadmap for modernizing logistics sector and bring it at par with the global best. Road map: The road map aims to foster focused engagement with the industry and collaborate with the concerned agencies including state Government’s and other related agencies. It will also undertake mutually agreed focused studies on logistics and promote Government’s policies on logistics. Background: The Union Government has decided to reduce Logistics cost in country from the present 14% of GDP to less than 10% by 2022. For this purpose, a concerted effort in collaboration with Central Ministries as well as State Governments has been initiated for simplifying the regulatory processes in both domestic and EXIM (export-import) logistics. Government also has granted infrastructure status to number of logistics activities, which will enable them to avail cheaper and long term commercial loans.

    10) The Supreme Court held that every adult has right to marry anyone and nobody including parents, khap panchayats or similar associations can question their choice of spouse. It also ruled that any kind of attack and interference on such adults opting for marriage, especially inter-caste marriage as ‘absolutely illegal’. The case has been listed for further hearing in February 2018. SC Ruling: The apex court asked Central Government to give its response on suggestions given by senior advocate on ways to prevent harassment and killing of young couples in name of family honour who opt for inter-caste marriages. It also issued strict direction to government to control such attacks. It also warned Central Government that if it does not act towards banning Khap Panchayats then, it will step in. Background: The SC was hearing petition filed against khap panchayats by NGO Shakti Vahini in 2010 seeking directions to Centre and state governments for preventing honour crimes. Earlier it had sought suggestions from Shakti Vahini, amicus curiae and khap panchayats on the issue. It also had invited khap panchayats to hear their views before issuing order to stop them from harassing and killing couples and women in the name of honour. Khaps Panchayats: Khaps are caste or community organisations representing clan or group of related clans. They frequently make pronouncements on social issues and have often landed in controversies owing to their diktats.

    11) The Union Ministry of Minority Affairs has decided to end Haj subsidy from this year as a part of its policy to empower minorities with dignity and without appeasement. This decision was taken based on the recommendations of Afzal Amanullah Committee and May 2012 Supreme Court order. Key Facts: The Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city for Muslims. It is mandatory religious duty for Muslims that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey and can support their family during their absence. The number of Hajj pilgrims from India is largest among all countries around of world. Government’s Haj subsidy mainly included cheaper airfare and central assistance to pilgrims to reach specially-designed Haj departure terminals at airports. It also included food and medical care. Now onwards, proceeds from Haj subsidy will be used for educational empowerment and welfare of girls from minority communities. Background: The Supreme Court in May 2012 had directed that Haj subsidy should be done away gradually by 2022. The order of court reiterated Holy Quran verses (Verse 97 in Surah 3, Al-e-Imran mandates that Hajj should be taken up only if a Muslim can afford it) and said that amount spent should be used in education and other measures for social development of the minority community. In accordance with the order, Union Government had constituted committee headed by former secretary Afzal Amanullah to suggest framework for new Haj policy for 2018-22. It had submitted its report in October 2017. The committee had recommended for gradual withdrawal of Haj subsidy. It also had recommended to allow older Muslim women to travel to haj without male guardians. Haj withot Mehram: Earlier, Union Government had allowed Muslim women above age of 45 to go on Haj without male company, in a group of at least four. Earlier, women were not allowed to travel without ‘Mehram’ (husband or a male first blood relation as guardian).

    12) The NITI Aayog has launched first course on Sustainable Urban planning using remote sensing and Geographic Information System (GIS) at IIT Kanpur’s outreach centre in Noida. This is first course conducted under Global Initiative on Academic Network (GIAN) Program of Union Ministry of Human Resource Development. It is actively supported by NITI Aayog and Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. Key Facts: The course aims to give participants state-of-the-art remote sensing and GIS skills to allow them managing rapidly changing urban environment of Indian cities. Its prime focus is on issues such as water resource management, water pollution and water treatment facilities. It is expected to contribute significantly to build trained manpower for Smart Cities that aims to promote sustainable and inclusive cities that provide core infrastructure and give decent quality of life to its citizens through clean and sustainable environment and application of Smart Solutions. The participants for this course are mainly from Government departments such as ISRO, National Mission on Clean Ganga, AP Remote Sensing Application Centre and students from different engineering colleges and universities across country. Global Initiative on Academic Network (GIAN): GIAN in Higher Education is scheme of HRD Ministry that aims to boost the quality of the country’s higher education through international collaboration. Its objective is to increase footfalls of reputed international faculty to Indian academic institutes and thereby bring in international academic excellence in India’s higher education institutions. It facilitates participation of high quality international academicians for delivering short-term courses and programs in Indian institutions.

    13) Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated HPCL Rajasthan Refinery Ltd (HRRL) project commencement of oil refinery in Rajasthan’s Barmer district. It is first oil refinery to be set up in Rajasthan. The project is undertaken as joint venture between Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL) and the Rajasthan government. HPCL owns 74% stake in the project, while the state government owns 26%. Key Facts: The project includes refinery and petroleum complex of 9 MMTPA capacity. It is expected to be operational in 4 years (2022-23) at a cost of Rs 43000 crores. It is largest investment in the state till date. It is expected to give major impetus to state’s economy and will bring to the state an additional income of Rs 34000 crores. It is also expected to generate thousands of direct and indirect employment opportunities. Further, it is expected to bring an unprecedented surge in ancillary units, infrastructure development, improvement of healthcare services and establishment of education institutions in Western Rajasthan.

    14) Sikkim Government has allowed people from state to forge fraternal ties with trees. In this regard, State Forests, Department has issued notification titled Sikkim Forest Tree (Amity & Reverence) Rules 2017. The purpose of this move is to preserve trees by encouraging people to forge relationship of brotherhood or sisterhood with trees through tradition practice locally known as Mitini or Mith/Mit. Provision of notification: State government allows any person to associate with trees standing on his or her private land or on any public land by entering into Mitini relationship. Person can also adopt tree as if it was his/her own child, in which tree will be called adopted tree. Person can also adopt or preserve them in remembrance of a departed relative in which case tree shall be called smriti tree. In case person desires to enter into a relationship with a tree located on public land then permission from forests department needs to be taken. If an individual wants to forge relationship with tree which stands another person’s land, then concerned person shall execute agreement with owner and compensate him in terms of market value of timber or wood contained in tree. It prohibits felling or damage to any tree registered as Mitini, smriti or adopted tree and points out that any such violation will be treated as forest offence. Comment: Sikkim is one of cleanest and greenest north-eastern States. As per Forest Survey of India, 2015 forest cover of Sikkim is 47.80 % of State’s total geographical area. The recent notification has given formal recognition to age-old tradition of promoting amity between man and nature, particularly trees.

    15) Odisha Government has launched Mukshyamantri Kalakar Sahayata Yojana (MMKSY) to provide financial assistance to the literature and cultural artists of state. It was launched by Odisha Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik. Features: The scheme is mainly for the welfare of literature and cultural artists of the state. It will provide monthly financial assistance of Rs. 1200 to literature and cultural artists of state. State government has also lowered age in the eligibility criteria as compared to previous artist assistance scheme, under which only 4000 artists were being given Rs 1000 per month. The scheme will facilitate the identification of artists from all districts. It will benefit around 50000 artists across the state. As per new eligibility criteria, male artist can get assistance under after attaining age of 50 years (earlier it was 60 years) and female artist can get it at age of 40 years (earlier it was 50 years).

    16) The biennial search and rescue exercise between Indian Coast Guard (ICG) and Japan Coast Guard (JCG) was held near Chennai, Tamil Nadu in Bay of Bengal. This was eighth such in series of ‘National Maritime Search and Rescue Workshop and Exercise’. Ships and aircraft of Coast Guards from India and Japan, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force (IAF) and National Institute of Ocean Technology (NIOT) took part in it. Key Facts: The aim of the exercise was to augment operational level interaction and capacity building in areas of search and rescue, pollution response and maritime law enforcement. It also aimed to share best management practices and continuation of personnel exchange. The two-day exercise comprised of workshop and search and rescue operations in Bay of Bengal. Observers from 27 maritime nations witnessed exercise, apart from representatives of National Maritime Search and Rescue Board from central and state departments. During exercise, rescue demonstrations by ships and aircraft showcased country’s search and rescue capabilities and its commitment to safety of life in distress at sea. Background: Relations between the Coast Guards of two countries go back long way with ICG ships calling on ports in Japan for professional interactions since 2000. This biennial exercise is continuation of efforts by governments of two countries to enhance cooperation between two Coast Guards in field of maritime safety and security at sea.

    17) The third edition of the geo-political conference – Raisina Dialogue was held in New Delhi. It was inaugurated by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The event is jointly organised by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and Observer Research Foundation (ORF). The theme of the conference for this year is ‘Managing Disruptive Transitions: Ideas, Institutions and Idioms’. Raisina Dialogue: Raisina Dialogue is an annual conference held in New Delhi. It is envisioned to be India’s flagship conference of geopolitics and geo-economics. The name of conference comes from Raisina Hill which is the elevation in New Delhi where presidential palace of India, Rashtrapati Bhavan is located. It is organized on the lines of the Shangri-La Dialogue held in Singapore. It is structured as a multi-stakeholder, cross-sectorial conclave, involving policy and decision makers, including cabinet ministers from various Governments, high-level Government officials and policy practitioners, leading personalities from business and industry etc. The conference is held jointly by Ministry of External Affairs and the Observer Research Foundation (ORF), an independent think tank based in India. The first edition of conference was held in March 2016 with theme “Asia: Regional and Global Connectivity”. The second edition of conference was held in January 2017 with the theme “The New Normal: Multilateralism in a multipolar world”.

    18) The Indo-US joint military exercise ‘Vajra Prahar’ will be held at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Seattle in third week of January in line with the increasing military cooperation between both countries. In this edition of bilateral exercise, Indian Army team from the Pune-headquartered Southern Command will participate. The exercise will mainly focus on special operations in urban areas. Key Facts: The aim of the Vajra Prahar exercise is to promote military relations between two countries by enhancing interoperability and mutual exchange of tactics between Special Forces. Its objectives are to Share best practices between two armies. Develop joint strategies by sharing expertise of conducting operations in a counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism environment. Capitalise on rich repository of experiences of each other armies. Background: ‘Vajra Prahar’ is Indo-US Special Forces joint training exercise conducted alternately in India and the US started in 2010. It is conducted annually, but there was a gap of three years between 2012 and 2015. The last edition was held in Jodhpur in March 2017.

    19) Bangladesh, India and Nepal agreed on text of operating procedures for passenger vehicle movement (Passenger protocol) in sub-region under Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal (BBIN) Motor Vehicles Agreement (MVA). Decision in this regard was taken at meeting of High-level officials of three countries held in Bengaluru, Karnataka. It was convened and chaired by India’s Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). Passenger protocol: The passenger protocol agreed upon is document detailing procedures for cross-border movement of buses and private vehicles for transport facilitation in subregion. It will be signed by three countries after completing necessary internal approval processes in their government. The delegations participating countries also agreed to continue to conduct trial movement of cargo vehicles along scheduled routes from April 2018 onwards, before finalizing protocol for cargo vehicular movement. BBIN Motor Vehicles Agreement (MVA): The landmark MVA was signed by Transport Ministers of BBIN countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal) in Thimphu, Bhutan in June 2015. India, Bangladesh and Nepal have already ratified MVA and have agreed to start its implementation among three signatory countries. Bhutan will bandwagon them after it ratifies the agreement. The agreement will permit member states to ply their vehicles in each other’s territory for transportation of cargo and passengers, including third country transport and personal vehicles. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is providing technical, advisory, and financial support to BBIN MVA initiative as part of its assistance to South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC) program. Earlier trail runs for cargo vehicles under MVA were conducted along Kolkata-Dhaka-Agartala and Delhi-Kolkata-Dhaka routes which had successfully establishes their economic benefits. SASEC program: It is projects-based economic cooperation initiative of ADB that brings together BBIN countries, Maldives, Sri Lanka and more recently, Myanmar. ADB (Manila) is secretariat of SASEC.

    20) The Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM), Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), in collaboration launched ‘IPrism’ for college and university students. The one of its kind Intellectual Property (IP) Competition was launched by CIPAM-DIPP in association with ASSOCHAM and ERICSSON India. Key Facts: The IPrism competition aims to foster culture of innovation and creativity in younger generation. It will provide young creators unique opportunity to see their creations recognized on national platform. It invites students to submit films on piracy & counterfeiting under two categories of 30 and 60 seconds. In another category, there is competition is for mobile gaming app on IP. Background: Counterfeiting and Piracy cause significant loss to film industry and pose serious safety threats to consumers. By generating awareness it can help to tackle such crimes since limited knowledge about their adverse social and economic impact leads to circulation and consumption of pirated content and fake goods. The National IPR Policy adopted in May, 2016 that aims to create vibrant IP ecosystem in country calls for creating IPR Awareness through outreach and promotional activities. CIPAM: The CIPAM is nodal professional agency under DIPP, Ministry of Commerce & Industry. Its mandate is to effectively implement National Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy adopted in May 2016. It has been actively involved in many activities including a nation-wide IPR awareness campaign. It has undertaken several measures to strengthen IP ecosystem in country.

    21) India and Sri Lanka signed four agreements for collaboration in Information and communication technology (ICT) sector between both countries. The MoU for cooperation was signed by Union minister for Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad with his Sri Lankan counterpart in Colombo. Key Facts: The agreements were signed for collaboration in ICT sector and setting up of e-office system and connecting of National Knowledge network (NKN) for collaboration among universities and academics. With this, Sri Lanka became first country to be connected to NKN through Gigabyte (GB) optical fibre network. This will connect NKN to Lanka education & research network (LEARN) through which universities on both sides can share best practices and research ideas. National Informatics centre (NIC) has set up a model E-office system for Sri Lanka. National Knowledge Network (NKN): NKN is a state-of-the-art multi-gigabit pan-Indian resource-sharing network aimed at digitally connecting all national universities, colleges and research establishments to create country-wide virtual classrooms. This project was launched in 2010 for period of 10 years. Currently, it is component of umbrella “Digital India” programme. Objectives of NKN: It aims to connect universities, research institutions, libraries, laboratories, healthcare and agricultural institutions across country with high bandwidth (multi-gigabit)/low latency internet connection so that they can share the knowledge, information and data. Its core idea is to bring together all stakeholders from science, technology, higher education, healthcare, agriculture and governance to a common platform. Mandate of NKN: Establish high-speed backbone connectivity which will enable knowledge and information sharing. Enable collaborative research, development and Innovation. Facilitate an ultra-high speed backbone for e-Governance. Link to Global Networks to collaborate with research communities across the globe. Facilitate advanced distance education in specialized fields such as engineering, science, medicine etc. Facilitate integration of different sectorial networks in field of health, education, research, commerce and governance.

    22) The 65th Meeting of the Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE) was held under Chairmanship of Union Human Resource Development Minister Prakash Javadekar in New Delhi. Education Ministers of 20 States, representatives of 28 states/UTs, members of CABE, heads of autonomous organisations, Vice Chancellors of Universities attended the meeting. Resolutions adopted in meeting: Operation Digital Board will be launched in all schools in five years and will be undertaken jointly by Centre, State, Corporate Social Responsibility and community. It will improve quality of education. Under it, students will be empowered with 360 degree information with interesting learning experience and increase teacher accountability. CABE also will ensure to provide Quality, Equity, Accessibility, Accountability and Affordability in education by pro-active action and plan. It will also promote Swacch Bharat, Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat, Padhe Bharat, Sugamya Bharat and physical education. It also resolved to promote human value education, life skill education, experiential learning to bring out good human beings out of education system. Central Advisory Board of Education (CABE): CABE is the policy making advisory body of the HRB Ministry. The committee has representatives of central organisation, universities, state and bodies including planning commission, NGOs and civic society. The CABE committee headed by HRD Minister is generally made for three years.

    23) The International Workshop on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (IWDRI) was held in New Delhi. It was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The workshop was organised by National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) in collaboration with United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR). Key Facts: The workshop aimed to take this dialogue on Disaster Resilient Infrastructure and global cooperation further. It had brought together countries from different parts of the world with different socio-economic backgrounds and geographical features. It provided great opportunity to learn from their unique experiences in their efforts towards building disaster resilient infrastructure. The workshop also saw participation of multilateral development banks, United Nations, private sector and academics to identify best practices in infrastructure sector as well as key issues in existing practices and ways to address them.

    24) India and Israel have signed nine agreements to boost cooperation in the areas of space, cyber security and oil and gas between both countries. The agreements were signed following delegation-level talks headed by Prime Ministers Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu in New Delhi. Netanyahu is first Israeli Prime Minister to visit India in span of last 15 years and second one overall. Ariel Sharon was first and only Israeli Prime Minister to visit India in 2003. List of agreement signed: Agreement on Film-co-production. Protocol on Amendments to Air Transport Agreement. MoU on Cyber Security Cooperation between India and Israel. Memorandum of Intent (MoI) between Invest India and Invest in Israel. Medical Centre on Cooperation in field of Research in Homeopathic Medicine. Letter of Intent (LoU) between IOCL and Phinergy Ltd. For cooperation in area of metal-air batteries. MoU between the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas and the Ministry of Energy on Cooperation inOil and Gas Sector. LoI between IOCL and Yeda Research and Development Co Ltd for cooperation in the area of concentrated solar thermal technologies. MoU between Central Council for Research in Homeopathy, Ministry of AYUSH and Centre for Integrative Complementary Medicine, Shaare Zedek. MoU between Indian Institute of Space Science and Technology (IIST) and Technion- Israel Institute of Technology for cooperation in field of space.

    25) The World Economic Forum (WEF) has ranked India at 30th position among 100 countries on its Global Manufacturing Index (GMI). The index was released as part of WEF’s first Readiness for the future of production Report which analysed development of modern industrial strategies and urges collaborative action. Readiness for future of production Report: The report was developed by WEF in collaboration with A.T. Kearney. It analyses and measures how well positioned 100 countries will shape and benefit from changing nature of production through adoption of emerging technology as part of Fourth Industrial Revolution in production. It calls for new and innovative approaches to public-private collaboration are needed to accelerate transformation. It has categorised 100 countries into four groups viz. Leading (strong current base, high level of readiness for future), High Potential (limited current base, high potential for future), Legacy (strong current base, at risk for future) or Nascent (limited current base, low level of readiness for future). Key Highlights of Report: Top 10 countries in GMI: Japan, South Korea, Germany, Switzerland, China, Czech Republic, United States, Sweden, Austria and Ireland. BRICS nations: China (25th), Russia (35th), Brazil (41st) and South Africa (45th). China was placed among ‘leading countries’. Indian and Russia were placed in ‘Legacy’ group while Brazil and South Africa are in ‘nascent’ ones. The 25 ‘leading’ countries were placed in best position group to gain as production systems stand on brink of exponential change. No country was placed in frontier of readiness group. About India: It is 5th-largest manufacturer in world with total manufacturing value added of over US $420 billion in 2016. Its manufacturing sector has grown by over 7% per year on average in past three decades and accounts for 16-20% of India’s GDP. Demand for Indian manufactured products is rising. India was ranked 9th in terms of scale of production and at 48th place for complexity. It was ranked 3rd for market size. It was ranked poorly (90th or even lower) in parameters like female participation in labour force, trade tariffs, regulatory efficiency and sustainable resources. Overall, India ranked better than its neighbours Sri Lanka (66th), Pakistan (74th) and Bangladesh (80th). Other countries that ranked below India include Turkey, Indonesia, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Mauritius and UAE. World Economic Forum: WEF is independent international organization committed to improving state of world by engaging business, political, academic and other leaders of society to shape global, regional and industry agendas. It was incorporated as a not-for-profit foundation in 1971. It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.

    26) The India International Exchange (India INX) has listed the Indian Railway Finance Corporation’s (IRFC’s) green bonds on its debt listing platform-Global Securities Market (GSM). With this, IRFC green bonds became first debt security to be listed on exchange at International Financial Services Centre (IFSC) in Gujarat’s GIFT city. India INX’s GSM segment is India’s first debt listing platform. It allows raising funds in any currency of choice by both foreign and Indian issuers from investors across the globe. Indian Railway Finance Corporation: IRFC is finance arm of Indian Railway. It raises financial resources for expansion and running through capital markets and other borrowings. It raises money mainly through financial bonds and from banks and financial institutions. In 2017, IRFC had raised $500 million from 10- year green bond from investors in Asia, Europe and offshore US through listing on the London Stock Exchange LSE). Green Bonds: Bonds basically are debt instruments which help issuer to get capital while the investors receive fixed income in the form of interest. In case of Green Bonds, the issuer gets capital from the investors only if investment (capital) is being raised to fund green projects relating to renewable energy or emission reductions etc. India International Exchange (India INX): Indai-INX is India s first international exchange at IFSC Gujarat International Financial Tech (GIFT) City, Gandhinagar. It is wholly-owned subsidiary of Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE), through its global bourse. It is one of the world’s most advanced and fastest trading technology platforms with turn-around time of 4 micro seconds. It will operate for 22 hours a day allowing international investors and NRIs to trade from anywhere across globe. It trades in equity derivatives, currency derivatives, commodity derivatives including Index and Stocks. It also offers depository receipts and bonds.

    27) India has contributed $50,000 to United Nations (UN) Secretary General Antonio Guterres’s Office of Envoy on Youth to help with its mission of involving young people in the world body’s goals. The contribution was handed over by Paulomi Tripathi, a First Secretary in India’s UN Mission to the Youth Envoy Jayathma Wickramanayake. Key Facts: The contribution made by India is voluntary with no strings attached. It is in addition to regular payments India makes to UN’s general and peacekeeping budgets. Jayathma Wickramanayake from Sri Lanka was appointed the UN Secretary-General’s Envoy on Youth in June 2017 at the age of 26. The Youth Envoy’s works to raise international awareness and attention to youth issues among others. Its mission aims to promote engagement of youth and advocate for them across all the four pillars of UN’s work –human rights, peace and security, sustainable development and humanitarian action.

    28) Researchers from Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) have discovered a new species of moth, scientifically named Elcysma Ziroensis from Talley Wildlife Sanctuary in Arunachal Pradesh. The discovery was published in the Journal of Threatened Taxa, an international journal on conservation and taxonomy. Key Facts: Elcysma Ziroensis is commonly called Apatani Glory, named after a local tribe called Apatani. It was discovered at an elevation of 1,700m in Ziro. This discovery represents the first record of Elcysma from Arunachal Pradesh. This species has only been seen during autumn, notably in month of September. This indicates that it is univoltine species, meaning it has one brood of young in a year. Talley Valley Wildlife Sanctuary: It is a wildlife sanctuary as well as a bio-diversity hotspot located in Arunachal Pradesh. It is situated at altitude of 2400 metres with rivers like Pange, Sipu, Karing and Subansiri flowing through the Reserved Forest and Sanctuary. Talley is plateau with dense forest of silver fir trees, pine clad plateau of beautiful grandeur, and vast wasteland. It mainly comprises sub-tropical and alpine forests and has variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endangered. It is home to highly endangered species like clouded leopard. Pleioblastus simone is a bamboo variety only found in Talley Valley. Arunachal Pradesh as a whole contains 40% of the floral and faunal species in India.

    29) The National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange Ltd (NCDEX) unveiled India’s first agricultural-commodity options in Guarseed designed as hedge for farmers to safeguard against price risks. It was launched by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in New Delhi. Key Facts: NCDEX’s guarseed option is one of the most liquid contracts on the exchange platform. Its three options contracts in guarseed will expire in February, March and April 2018 and will be made available for trading. NCDEX is second exchange after MCX to launch options trading in commodities. In October 2017, MCX had launched gold options. Market regulator SEBI had allowed NCDEX to launch options in September 2016 and later had clarified that options will have futures as underlying for settlement. Significance: Options are derivatives which give a buyer right but not obligation to buy or sell an underlying asset or instrument at specific price on or before a certain date. The option trading is powerful tool to hedge price risks and will boost the development of agri-commodity market. It is considered as one of major steps towards taking farmers out of situation resulting in drastic fall in prices of some agri-commodities due to higher production. This initiative will benefit farmers and ensure better prices for their produce in the coming days. Importance of Guarseed: Guar gum is extracted from guar seed which is used by drilling companies to thicken water mixed with sand and pumped through shale rock cracks to extract gas. It is also used as thickening agent in products such as ice cream, bread, pasta, sausages and pastries. North American oil and gas industry are mostly uses guar gum from India. Increase in crude oil prices creates demand for guar in North America’s shale gas industry. Rajasthan, Haryana and parts of Gujarat are major guar producers in the country.

    30) India and United Kingdom (UK) have signed two Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) dealing with return of Indians residing in Britain as illegal migrants and sharing of criminal records and intelligence. The MoUs were signed by India’s Minister of State (MoS) for Home Affairs Kiren Rijiju and UK’s Minister of Immigration Caroline Nokes in London. Key Facts: MoU on return of illegal Indian migrants: It paves way for quicker and more efficient process for documentation and return of Indians who are illegally residing in United Kingdom. It also commits both countries to take more flexible approach to verify identity and nationality of individuals to speed up returns process. MoU on criminal records exchange: It will help in sharing of criminal records, fingerprints and intelligence between Indian and British law enforcement bodies. It will help police forces from both countries to strengthen their law enforcement and protect the public from known criminals including sex offenders. It will also allow courts of both countries to get access to more information to support tougher sentencing decisions.

    31) 7th edition of Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav (RSM) 2018 under the Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat programme was held in Bengaluru, Karnataka from January 14-20, 2018. The event was organised by Union Ministry of Culture, It was inaugurated by Minister for Parliamentary Affairs Ananth Kumar in the presence of Minister of State for Culture Mahesh Sharma. Key Facts: Rashtriya Sanskriti Mahotsav aims to celebrate national integration and idea of unity in diversity of country. It celebrates rich culture and heritage of India. It aims to provide platform to bring together artists from each corner of country. It covers events including art forms from classical and folk, music and dance, theatre to literature and visual arts. It also showcases gallery of Indian art forms and tradition for the discerning audience. Ek Bharat-Shreshtha Bharat Programme: It was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Ekta Diwas (31st October 2016) on the occasion of birth anniversary of Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel. Its objective is to Strengthen cultural relations of various parts of country and to embolden mutual connection between people dwelling in different states. Celebrate unity in diversity culture of nation and bolster sentimental bonds between people of different states. Strengthen sentiments for National Unity between the citizens of states and states governed by union government by conducting various activities throughout the year under this campaign. Showcase rich heritage and culture, customs and traditions of either State for enabling people to understand and appreciate the diversity that is India, thus fostering a sense of common identity. Establish long-term engagements and create environment which promotes learning between States by sharing best practices and experiences.

    32) The iconic Teen Murti Chowk in central New Delhi was renamed as Teen Murti-Haifa after Israeli City Haifa in solemn ceremony attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu. The idea of renaming Teen Murti road and chowk after Haifa was proposed in New Delhi Municipal Council (NDMC) council meeting during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Israel in July 2017. This year marks the centenary year of Battle for Haifa. The renaming of the iconic war memorial is aimed at being symbolic gesture of India’s friendship with Israel. Teen Murti Chowk: Teen Murti Chowk was named to mark role of the three cavalry regiments. The three bronze statues at Teen Murti represent Hyderabad, Jodhpur and Mysore Lancers who were part of 15 Imperial Service Cavalry Brigade in British Indian Army. The brigade had carried out victorious assault on fortified city of Haifa also known as Battle for Haifa on September 23, 1918, during World War I. There are various accounts of this heroic battle – all narrate valour with which lancers undertook assault on garrisoned city protected by joint force of Ottomans, Germany and Austria-Hungary. The liberation of Haifa cleared supply route for Allies (Britain, France and Italy) to city through sea. 44 Indian soldiers made ultimate sacrifice during liberation of the city in WW I. Till date, 61 Cavalry celebrates September 23 as its Raising Day or “Haifa Day” to respect soldiers who lost their lives in battle and to mark end of 400 years of Turkish control over the city.

    33) According to wealth index released on basis of data from fourth round of National Family and Health Survey (NFHS-4) Delhi is richest state and Jain wealthiest community in the country. The NFHS-4 was conducted among more than 6 lakh households in 2015-16. It was largest sample size and was carried out just couple of years ago that provided useful source of information in analysing India’s socio-economic landscape. Wealth index: The wealth index as part of NFHS-4 was prepared on basis of information of scores on ownership of consumer goods such as television and bicycles and household characteristics such as availability of clean drinking water. This information was used to classify all households into wealth quintiles. Those in lowest quintile were poorest 20%, while those in top were richest 20% of lot. The report then used these quintile scores to classify population for states, caste and religious groups and rural-urban areas into each quintile. Key Facts: State wise wealth Distribution: Delhi and Punjab are richest states with over 60% of their households in the top wealth quintile. They are followed by Goa with 54.5% households in top bracket. Bihar is poorest state half of its households in the bottom quintile. Rajasthan has most equitable wealth distribution with similar number of households in all quintiles. Wealth distribution in religious groups: Jains are the most prosperous religious community in India with 70% of its population in the top quintile. Only 1.5% of Jain households fall in lowest two quintiles. Sikhs follow next, with 59.6% of their people in the top wealth quintile. Hindus and Muslims have similar and also most equitable wealth distribution across all quintiles.Community wise wealth distribution: Upper castes in India have almost double families in top quintile as compared to any other caste. Scheduled tribes are the poorest with 45.9% of their people in lowest quintile. Rural and Urban wealth: Poverty is predominantly a rural phenomenon in India. 29% of rural India belongs to bottom quintile, while it is just 3.3% for urban India. 29% of the rural population has wealth levels equivalent to bottom 20% of the country’s population. Concern: High levels of income and wealth inequality are matter of great concern in India. NFHS-4 statistics on disparity in wealth-holdings across various categories shows that there cannot be one size fits all policy if the government is serious about addressing this problem.

    34) China’s People’s Liberation Army Navy has commissioned Rizhao, a new missile frigate, in a naval port in Dalian, China. It is China’s indigenous missile frigate named after Rizhao city in Shandong Province of China. Rizhao: The Rizhao missile frigate is 140 metres long and 16 metres wide. It was designed and made in China. It has a displacement of nearly 4,000 tonnes. It is equipped with advanced weapons systems and has ability to attack enemy ships and submarines on its own or in coordination with other naval forces. It was launched in April 2017. Frigates are naval vessels intermediate between corvettes and destroyers.

    35) Norwegian fertiliser giant Yara International has announced completion of its acquisition of Tata Chemicals’ 1.2 million tonnes per annum production capacity urea plant at Babrala in Uttar Pradesh. The Rs. 2,682-crore acquisition deal includes transfer of all assets and liabilities (including working capital) relating to Babrala unit. It marks first foreign direct investment (FDI) in India’s highly regulated urea sector. Key Facts: The acquisition represents a major step of Yara as it deepens its footprint in India, world’s second largest fertiliser market after China. Moreover, a greenfield urea-ammonia plant of this size at Babrala will entail a setting up cost of $1 billion. Yara is headquartered in Oslo, Norway. Current it does annual sales of $35-40 million in India. Much of it comprises premium micronutrients, complex and water-soluble fertilisers used in high-value crops such as banana, grapes, apples, sugarcane, chilli and vegetables grown mainly in Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Himachal Pradesh.

    36) Kerala Government has introduced Kerala Accelerator Program, a virtual accelerator program for three months, to promote startups in the early revenue stage. It was launched by Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) in association with Zone Startups India. Kerala Accelerator Program: This program will help startups achieve product-market fit through a curated customer validation process. It will introduce startups to investors, relevant customers and industry connects. It will provide both live and virtual mentoring sessions. Under, it mentors will visit state capital Thiruvananthapuram and Kochi to interact with selected startups. It also provides a one week residential program in Bangalore and Mumbai to selected startups. It also provides weekly reviews, customer interactions and an end-of-programme ‘demo day’ with investors. Zone Startups: Zone Startups is global brand of early stage tech accelerators and venture funds operated by Toronto based Ryerson Futures Inc. Its Indian subsidiary has been set up as joint-venture of Ryerson Futures Inc., Simon Fraser University (Vancouver), BSE Institute Limited and Department of Science and Technology (Government of India).

    37) The Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA) under the aegis of Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas has launched month long Saksham 2018 (Sanrakshan Kshamta Mahotsav). Saksham is annual flagship event of PCRA with active involvement of Oil & Gas PSUs along with other stakeholders like State Governments. Key Facts: Saksham aims at creating focused attention on fuel conservation through people centric activities and sensitize masses about conservation and efficient use of petroleum products leading to better health and environment. It also aims to intensify efforts for making citizens aware about conservation and effective utilization of petroleum products. It seeks to enthuse masses with new energy coupled with all-out effort for saving precious fuel, which will also contribute in keeping our environment green. Petroleum Conservation Research Association (PCRA): The PCRA is an organization under the aegis of the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. It was established in 1978. It is engaged in promoting energy efficiency in various sectors of the economy. It helps government in proposing policies and strategies aimed at reducing India’s dependency on oil, in order to save money, reduce environmental impact of oil use and also conserve fossil fuel.

    38) Indian Navy has decommissioned INS Nirbhik and INS Nirghat warships at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai (Maharashtra), after a glorious 30 and 28 years respectively in the service of the nation. During their glorious service over almost three decades, these ships had participated in numerous operations including Operations Parakram and Vijay. Key Facts: INS Nirbhik and INS Nirghat in their new avatars were commissioned at Poti in erstwhile USSR (now in Russia) in December 1987 and December 1989 respectively. These ships belonged to Killer squadron and were forward deployed off Gujarat on numerous occasions for patrolling. They had four gas turbine engines that enabled them to achieve fast speeds close to 40 Knots. Their weapon package included four Surface to Surface missile, medium range AK 176 gun and close range AK 630 in addition to small calibre guns packs a lethal punch. These ships were manned by a crew of 70 sailors and seven officers. These ships were inheritors of proud legacy as their original avatars were flag bearers of naval offensive action on Karachi Harbour during India-Pakistan war in 1971.

    39) The Election Commission (EC) has constituted 14 member committee headed by Umesh Sinha to suggest changes to Section 126 of the Representation of the People Act, 1951 (RP Act) in view of social media expansion. Section 126 of RP Act, 1951 prohibits displaying any election matter by means of television or similar apparatus, during the period of 48 hours before the hour fixed for conclusion of poll in a constituency. It does not include social and new media under its ambit. Composition: The Committee will be headed by Senior Deputy Election Commissioner Umesh Sinha. It will comprise of 9 officers of EC, one nominated member each from Ministry of Law, Information and Broadcasting Ministry, IT Ministry, Press Council of India (PCI) and National Broadcasters Association (NBA). Terms of Reference of the Committee: The committed will study impact of new media and social media during the “silence period” i.e. during 48 hours period prior to elections and its implication in view of Section 126 of RP Act, 1951. It will suggest modifications to the RP Act, 1951and model code of conduct (MCC). It will also examine difficulties faced in regulating media platforms during the prohibitory 48 hours in a multi-phase election It will submit its report within three months.

    40) China has successfully launched two BeiDou-3 satellites to provide navigation and positioning services to countries along Belt and Road initiative (BRI) by the end of 2018. The two satellites were designated as BeiDou-3 M7 and BeiDou-3 M8 (26th and 27th satellites) in BeiDou Navigation Satellite System (BDS). Key Facts: These two satellites were launched on board of Long March-3B carrier rocket from Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in southwestern province of Sichuan. This was first launch of the BeiDou satellites in 2018. China is plannig to send 18 BeiDou-3 satellites into space in 2018. These two satellites were based on newly-developed dedicated satellite bus and weigh about 1 metric ton each. Both spacecraft had two deployable solar arrays and are designed to be operational for about 12 years. These newly-launched satellites represent third phase of BDS system (BeiDou-3). The first BeiDou-3 satellite was launched in March of 2015. BeiDou: BeiDou is 2nd generation of Chinese homegrown navigational system seen as rival to US’s Global Positioning System (GPS). It was named after Chinese term for plough or Big Dipper constellation. It comprises constellation of total 35 satellites in two separate satellite constellations viz. limited test system (operational since 2000) and full-scale global navigation system which is currently under construction. The first BeiDou satellite was sent into space in 2000. It became operational in December 2011, with constellation of 10 satellites providing services in China only. In December 2012, it began offering services to customers in Asia-Pacific region. On its completion in 2020, it will provide services to global customers. Currently it used for civilian services in field of navigation, messaging, transportation and weather forecasting sectors. It also has military applications.

    41) Nepal has started accessing internet from China after commercial operation of Nepal-China optical fibre link via Rasuwagadhi gateway across Himalayan Mountains became operational. The commercial operation of Chinese bandwidth project now ends Nepal’s sole dependence on India for internet bandwidth. It is considered as loss for India, both revenue wise and strategically. Key Facts: The actual volume of Chinese internet bandwidth that Nepal will receive has not been disclosed. It believed that initial speed by Chinese fibre link will be 1.5 Gigabit per second (gbps), less than 34gbps provided by India. Chinese internet bandwidth will provide alternative source for Nepal to meet ever-increasing bandwidth demand as use of Internet has been increasing rapidly in the Himalayan country. Chinese Internet gateway is also expected to facilitate service providers in Nepal to establish bandwidth connection with other countries via China. It is also considered as milestone for developing internet infrastructure in Nepal and boost bilateral relations between both countries. Background: Nepal is currently linked to global internet connectivity through Indian telecom operators via different optical fibre connections in Biratnagar, Bhairahawa and Birgunj, among others. This gave India complete monopoly in supplying internet to Himalayan nation. In December 2016, state owned Nepal Telecom (NT) had signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with China Telecom to acquire internet bandwidth. NT had begun test transmission of project from September 2017.

    42) The Ministry of Environment and Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has refused to allow captive breeding of Chiru (Tibetan antelope), whose underfur is used for making famous shahtoosh shawls. The suggestion for captive breeding was made by Parliamentary Standing Committee on Science & Technology, Environment & Forests asking to consider captive breeding as it will add to livelihood of people of Kashmir. Shahtoosh shawls: Chiru for long time have been hunted for their underfur, which is renowned for its quality which is traditionally woven into an extremely fine fabric to make Shahtoosh shawls. It takes three to five hides to make a single shawl. Moreover, the wool cannot be sheared or combed and to collect the fur, the animals have to be killed. At present, Shahtoosh shawls’ sale and possession is banned in India and in many countries. Parliament panel view: The Parliament panel was of view that MoEFCC should conserve and breed Chiru goat, which can then be given to shawl makers for collecting hair. This would increase number of these goats but would also add to sustainable livelihood opportunities of people of Kashmir, who are lot dependant on the handicraft of embroidered shawls. It also cited that China and Mongolia are breeding Chiru goats for its wool, which is very expensive. The cost of an embroidered shahtoosh shawl can run into crores of rupees. MoEFCC Argument: Chiru is assessed as ‘Near Threatened’ by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) 2017. Their current low population can only be maintained with continued high levels of protection in its natural. Any relaxation in protection regime of animal will lead to rapid population decline due to commercial poaching. Chiru inhabits high-altitude Tibetan plateau and requires large expanse of land for its movement and ranging patterns to fulfil its feeding and breeding requirements. Rearing it in captivity is extremely difficult. Besides, any attempt to do conservation breeding at very high altitude regions of Ladakh may not be economical or feasible as humans cannot be posted there continuously for more than 2-3 months. Moreover Chinese also have failed to keep Chiru in captivity due to its poor survival rates. Chiru (Tibetan antelope): Its Scientific name is Pantholops hodgsonii. This antelope is considered to be close to goat family. It lives at a 3,250-5,500 metre elevation in high altitude plains and montane valleys comprising of alpine and desert steppe and pasture, distinguished by low vegetation cover and productivity. Predators such as wolf, lynx, snow leopard, and red fox are predators of chirus and their young calves. Protection Status: ‘Near Threatened’ in IUCN Red List. It has been enlisted in Schedule I of Wildlife Protection Act, 1972. To enhance its protection, its prime habitats have been declared as Wildlife Sanctuaries viz. Karakorma Wildlife Sanctuary and Changthang Cold Desert Wildlife Sanctuary.

    43) The Union Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation has inked Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bihar and Jharkhand for completion of balance works of North Koel reservoir project. Moreover, supplementary Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) was signed between Ministry of Water Resources, National Water Development Agency, NABARD with both states for funding under Long Term Irrigation Fund (LTIF) for the project. Funding: The project is scheduled to be completed in 30 months at the estimated cost of Rs. 1622.27 crores. Of this Rs. 1013.11 crores will be borne by Union Government as grant from LTIF under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY). I60% will be financed by Central Government from LTIF and remaining 40% of cost will be borne by the States through loan financed by NABARD. North Koel Reservoir Project: The project is situated on North Koel river, tributary on Sone River. It aims to provide irrigation to 111,521 hectares of land annually in most backward and drought prone areas in Jharkhand and Bihar. The construction of the projected originally had started in 1972 and continued till 1993 when it was stopped by the Bihar forest department over environmental concerns. The Mandal dam as part of the project had threatened to submerge portions of the Palamau Tiger Reserve and Betla National Park. The National Wildlife Board (NWB) had cleared the project in June 2017 with certain conditions. North Koel River: North Koel River rises on Ranchi plateau in Jharkhand. It joins the Sone River (only right bank tributary of Ganga River) a few miles north-west of Haidarnagar. Its principal tributaries are the Auranga and the Amanat. It meanders through the northern part of Betla National Park.

    44) India’s factory output, measured by the Index of Industrial Production (IIP) rose to 8.4% in November 2017 from 2% in October 2017. It was due to robust performance by manufacturing and capital goods sectors. According to data released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), it was highest growth registered by IIP in 17-months. The previous high was recorded at 8.9% in June, 2016. IIP Growth in November 2017: Manufacturing sector: Recorded an impressive growth of 10.2%. Mining output: Recorded 1.1% growth. Electricity generation: Recorded 3.9%.. Capital goods output: It is a barometer of investment. It grew by 9.4%. Consumer durables output: It grew just by 2.5%. It reflected weakness in urban demand. Consumer non-durables production: Recorded growth of 23.1%. Index of Industrial Production (IIP): The IIP is composite indicator that measures short-term changes in volume of production of a basket of industrial products during a given period with respect to chosen base period. It is compiled and published monthly by the Central Statistical Organization (CSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. Sector wise items and weightages: It covers 407 item groups. Sector wise, the items included falls into 3 categories viz. Manufacturing (405 items), Mining (1 items) & Electricity (1 item). The weights of the three sectors are 77.63%, 14.37%, 7.9% respectively. The revised eight core Industries have a combined weightage of 40.27% in the IIP. Decreasing order of weightage of core industries (base year 2011-12) is Petroleum Refinery production (weight: 28.04%), Electricity generation (19.85%), Steel production (17.92 %), Coal production (10.33 %), Crude Oil production (8.98 %), Natural Gas production (6.88 %), Steel production (17.92 %) and Fertilizer production (2.63 %). Base year: The CSO had revised the base year of the IIP from 2004-05 to 2011-12 in May 2017 to capture structural changes in the economy and improves the quality and representativeness of the indices. The revised IIP (2011-12) reflects the changes in the industrial sector and also aligns it with the base year of other macroeconomic indicators like the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) and Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

    45) Government think-tank National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog has announced to rank 115 backward (aspirational) districts by April 2018. It was announced at ‘Transformation of Aspirational Districts’ conference. These 115 backward districts include 35 districts affected by Left Wing Extremists (LWE) violence, 55 districts just affected by LWE and another 15 including districts in Jammu and Kashmir and northeast affected by terrorism. Key Facts: These 115 backward districts will be ranked on 10 socio-economic parameters which will include nutrition, education and health. Moreover NITI Aayog will also set up a mechanism for real-time monitoring of government’s development programmes by April 2018. It will also create dashboard which will reflect change in ranking of districts on continuous basis by the end of March 2018. Background: The Union Government had selected 115 backward districts for rapid transformation by 2022 in line with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision to create a “New India” over the next five years. During the Transformation of Aspirational Districts’ conference, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had asked collectors and officers-in- charge (Prabhari Officers) of the 115 aspirational districts to come up with pioneering innovations to achieve visible results for development. Government has embarked upon major policy initiative for rapid transformation of these 115 districts that are lagging on specific development parameters.

    46) The 4th ASEAN-INDIA Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture and Forestry was held at NASC Complex, New Delhi. It was attended by representatives from 10 ASEAN countries. The meeting was co-chaired by India’s Minister of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare Radha Mohan Singh and Thailand’s Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives Grisada Boonrach. Key Facts: The aim of the meeting was to facilitate promotion of joint research for development of technologies for increasing production and productivity of crops, livestock and fisherie, and natural resources management, among others in the region. It also aimed at development of joint ventures, exchange of technologies, expertise and material. The meeting also aimed to enhance cooperation on exchange of expertise to promote resilience in food security to address the price volatility of food supplies in the region. The meeting held discussions focused on enhancing cooperation on exchange of expertise to promote resilience in food security and to address the price volatility of food supplies in the region. It was announced that 5th ASEAN-India Ministerial Meeting on Agriculture and Forestry will be held in 2019 in Brunei Darussalam. ASEAN: ASEAN is a regional organisation that aims to promote intergovernmental cooperation and economic integration amongst its members. It consists of 10-member countries- Cambodia, Brunei, Laos, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. It came into existence on August 8, 1967, after adoption of ASEAN declaration (also known as Bangkok Declaration). It is headquartered in Jakarta, Indonesia.

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