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1. Israel has successfully tested Arrow ballistic missile Weapon System as part of its defence upgradation measures in the face of regional threats. The missile system has been jointly developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and the US aviation giant Boeing. Key facts Arrow 3 is the top-tier system in Israel’s missile shield arsenal. It is more powerful compared to country’s lowest-tier defence is the short-range Iron Dome interceptor. It provides exo-atmospheric interception of ballistic missiles i.e. designed to shoot down missiles above the atmosphere. It can hit targets in space that are meant to simulate a nuclear or chemical weapon that could be launched from Iran, Syria or Hezbollah. The Arrow ballistic missile project was first launched in 1988 by US as part of the then Star Wars programme and was abandoned in 1993.

2. The Union Government has declared the recent Tamil Nadu flood as a Calamity of Severe Nature. Central Government’s announcement came after Chief Minister J.Jayalalithaa had made a plea to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking that the floods be declared as National Disaster. Under this declaration Parliamentarians are advised to pend up to 1 crore rupees under their MP Local Area Development Scheme (MPLADS) for reconstruction and rehabilitation works in the in flood-affected districts. In this regard, MPs can send approval letters to the Union Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. Background The 2015 South Indian floods was a severe natural calamity caused by heavy rainfall on 15–16 November during the annual northeast monsoon seson. The worst affected areas were are located on the Coromandel Coast region of the South Indian states of Tamil Nadu Andhra Pradesh and the union territory of Puducherry. Chennai, capital city of Tamil Nadu was particularly hard-hit. The floods had killed nearly 600 people and displaced over 1.8 million people. The flooding was attributed to the El Niño phenomenon during the El Niño year of 2015

3. The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its approval to carry out official amendments in The National Waterways Bill, 2015. The amendments seek to add 106 additional inland waterways as the national waterways based on the recommendations Parliamentary Standing Committee on Transport, Tourism and Culture and comments of State Governments. Key facts The National Waterways Bill, 2015 repeals the five Acts that declare the existing national waterways. These existing five national waterways are now covered under the Bill. The enactment of this Act (Central legislation) will pave way for the inclusion of 106 additional inlands waterways. Thus the total number of national waterways (NW) numbers will go up to 111 from existing five national waterways. The changes made in former bill include omission of 10 waterways from Kerala. While 17 waterways have been merged with the existing waterways. 18 new waterways have been added. 5 each from Karnataka and Meghalaya, 3 each from Maharashtra and Kerala, 1 each from Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan). The declaration of these National Waterways would enable Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to develop the feasible stretches for Shipping and Navigation. Note: Union Government is empowered to make laws on shipping and navigation on inland waterways which are classified as national waterways by Parliament by law as per Entry 24 of the Union List of the 7th Schedule of the Constitution. Inland Waterways Waterways are the cheapest and environment friendly modes of Transportation. They are most suitable for carrying heavy and bulky goods. Existing five national waterways are (i) NW 1: between Allahabad and Haldia (1620 km) on Ganga River (ii) NW 2: between Sadiya and Dubri (891 km) (iii) NW 3: West Coast Canal (205 km) in Kerala (iv) NW 4: Kakinada–Pondicherry stretch River Godavari and Wazirabad–Vijayawada stretch of River Krishna in Andhra Pradesh (v) NW 5: Talcher–Dhamra (620 km) stretch on Mahanadi River.

4. Bengaluru based Indian Institute of Science (IISc) has bagged a United States military contract for research and development (R&D) on solar powered micro-grid. The federal contract worth US 52,900 dollars was awarded to IISc by the US Pacific Air Forces (PAF), Yokota Air Base in Japan. Under this contract IISc will develop solar powered micro-grid with battery and super capacitor energy storage system. It is considered as one of the rare instances as US military has awarded a federal contract to an Indian scientific institute known for its high-end cutting edge research. The announcement of the contract comes on the eve of the meeting between Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar and US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter at Pentagon. Mr Parrikar is on his maiden visit to the US to discuss ways to deepen the long term strategic partnership between both nations. Earlier, he had visited the US Pacific Command (PACOM) headquarters in Hawaii, becoming the the first-ever Indian Defence Minister to visit the key defence facility of US. About Indian Institute of Science (IISc) IISc is a public university for scientific research and higher education located in Bangalore, India. It was established in 1909 with active support from industrialist and philanthropist Jamsetji Tata. IISc is widely regarded as India’s finest institution in its field. It is the first Indian institute to feature on Times Higher Education World University Rankings for engineering and technology at 99th position in the year 2015-16.

5. Human Rights Day (HRD) is marked annually on 10th December to commemorate the day in 1948 when the United Nations (UN) adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). The theme chosen for the year 2015 HRD is ‘Our Rights. Our Freedoms. Always’. It marks the launch of a 1 year campaign commemorating two international human rights treaties International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR) and International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR). Both of the treaties were adopted in 1966. Background Human Rights Day was formally established at the 317th Plenary Meeting of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 4 December 1950. It was established after UNGA declared Resolution 423(V) by inviting all member states and any other interested organizations to celebrate the day to the mark the first global enunciation of human rights and one of the first major achievements of the UN.

6. India has been placed at fourth position in black money outflows among the developing and emerging economies. It was revealed by Global Financial Integrity’s (GFI’s) Illicit Financial Flows from Developing Countries: 2004-2013 Report. Key facts Record 1.1 trillion dollars flowed illicitly out of developing and emerging economies in 2013. Top 10 countries: China (1st), Russia (2nd), Mexico (3rd), India (4th), Malaysia (5th), Brazil (6th), South Africa (75th), Thailand (8th), Indonesia (9th) and Nigeria (10th). China tops the list with 139 billion dollars average outflow of black money per annum. It was around 258.64 billion dollars in year 2013. China was followed by Russia (104 billion dollars per annum) and Mexico (52.8 billion dollars per annum). The illegal capital (black money) outflows are mainly attributed to tax evasion, crime, corruption and other illicit activity. In case of India, 51 billion dollars black money outflowed per annum between the decade long period from 2004 to 2013.

7. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved creation of buffer stock of pulses to deal with wide fluctuation in prices of pulses and check food inflation. The buffer stock will be created by the procurement and would be valid for fiscal year 2015-16. As per decision The buffer stock will consist about 50000 tonnes of pulses from the kharif crop 2015-16 and one lakh tonnes from the rabi crop of 2015-16. The Procurement will be done at market prices through above Minimum Support Price (MSP) out of the Price Stabilisation Fund. If the prices fall below MSP, the procurement will be made at MSP under Price Support Scheme of Department of Agriculture (DoA). Procuring agencies would be Food Corporation of India (FCI), National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd. (NAFED) and Small Farmers’ Agribusiness Consortium (SFAC). The CCEA also decided to import pulses through Union Ministry of Commerce depending on the requirement. Comment Though being the highest producer of pulses in the world, India faces shortage as its domestic demand outstrips domestic production. It leads to fluctuation in prices and food inflation. As a short term measure the shortfall of pulses is usually met from imports. However, there is need for a long-term solution to meet its demand and increase pulses production in the country. Presently, Union government promotes cultivation of pulses mainly through National Food Security Mission (NFSM) which covers 622 districts in 27 states. Around 50 per cent of allocation of NFSM is made for pulses. Under it, financial assistance is given for distribution of quality seeds of new varieties, integrated pest management, water saving devices, demonstration of improved technology and capacity building of farmers.

8. The Union Cabinet has given its ex-post facto approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on cooperation between India and United Kingdom in the energy sector. Decision in this regard was taken by Union Cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Under the MoU the areas of cooperation are The main focus will be on the electricity market structure and the integration of renewable energy into the grid. Market reforms, regulatory structures and market competition in the distribution and supply of electricity. It includes incentives and regulations for Renewable Energy deployment. Promotion of energy efficiency practice and policies including vehicular fuel efficiency and industrial energy efficiency. The integration of renewable energy into the grid. It includes off-shore wind energy and solar energy and Tidal energy. Promotion of smart grids, energy storage and new energy technologies along with off-grid renewable energy services. It also includes capacity building of renewable energy institutions. The MoU will provide a framework for technical assistance in the energy sector along with in-kind grant and other support through relevant projects initiated by UK. The programme under MoU would help to improve energy security and reliability of supply at both centre and state levels. It would also improve energy access and facilitate sustainable economic growth. MoU between India and Indonesia The Union Cabinet also approved MoU between India and Indonesia in the field of new and renewable energy. It was signed in Jakarta during the visit of Vice President M. Hamid to Indonesia in November 2015. The MoU seeks to establish the basis for a cooperative institutional framework to promote and encourage technical bilateral cooperation on new and renewable energy issues.

9. The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the Real Estate (Regulation and Development) Bill, 2015. The Bill seeks to protect the interest of consumers, promote fair play in real estate transactions and ensure timely execution of projects. It aims at restoring confidence of the real estate sector in the consumers by institutionalizing accountability and transparency in real estate and housing transactions. It further seeks enable the real estate sector to access financial and capital markets. Salient features of the Bill The provisions of the bill would be applicable both for residential and commercial real estate projects. Establishment of Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) in all States/Union Territories (UTs) to regulate real estate transactions. Mandatory registrations of real estate projects and real estate agents with the RERA. Mandatory to disclose all registered projects along with details of the project, promoter, land status, layout plan, agreements, approvals as well as details of real estate agents, architect, contractors, structural engineer etc. For timely completion of the project, specified amount will be deposited in a separate bank account to cover the construction cost. Establishment of Appellate Tribunal for fast track dispute resolution mechanisms for settlement of disputes through adjudicating officers. Empowers only consumer court to hear real estate matters and prohibits civil courts from taking up matters defined in Bill. Without consent of consumers, promoters are barred from changing plans and design. Henceforth RERA would make necessary regulations and the Governments would make rules in the matters specified in the Bill. Comment The Bill would provide uniform regulatory environment for orderly growth of the real estate sector and to ensure speedy adjudication of disputes. It will boost foreign and domestic investments in the Real Estate sector and play important role in achieving objective of providing ‘Housing for All’ of Union Government by enhanced private participation. It will also promote orderly growth of Real Estate sector in the country through consequent efficient execution of project, professionalism and standardization.

10. Time magazine has named German Chancellor Angela Merkel as Person of the Year 2015. She was named for her role in Europe’s crises over migration and Greek debt as she had provided steadfast moral leadership in a world where it is in short supply. With this, Merkel became only the 4th woman since 1927 to be named winner and the first women to feature in 29 years. The other women three women to win are Wallis Simpson (1936), Queen Elizabeth II (1952) and Corazon Aquino (1986). Islamic State (IS) leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi was named runner-up and US Presidential hopeful Donald Trump was placed .

11. The fifth edition of ‘Heart of Asia’ conference, an annual regional gathering of Asian and other countries commenced in Islamabad Pakistan. Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Afghan President Ashraf Ghani jointly inaugurated the ministerial-level meeting. Key facts Theme of the meeting: ‘Heart of Asia-Istanbul Process: Enhanced cooperation for countering security threats and promoting connectivity in the Heart of Asia region.’ Focus of the two day conference: To increase cooperation for countering security threats and promotion of connectivity in the region. It is jointly hosted by Pakistan and Afghanistan and would be attended by the high-ranking delegations from 14 participating states, 17 supporting countries and 12 international and regional organisations. From India, the Union External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is attending the meeting. Six key areas: The 14 participating states are pursuing confidence-building measures in 6 key areas including counter-terrorism, counter-narcotics, disaster management, education, trade and investment and regional infrastructure. About Heart of Asia conference Heart of Asia – Istanbul Process was established 2011 in Istanbul, Turkey. Seeks to provide a platform to deal common regional issues particularly encouraging security along with political and economic cooperation among Afghanistan and its neighbours facing problems of terrorism, extremism and poverty. 14 Member states: Pakistan, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan, Turkey, Turkmenistan and UAE.

12. Scientists have genetically modified malaria-causing mosquito Anopheles gambiae species to fight the deadly disease of malaria. The research was successfully carried by team of researchers led by London based Imperial College and was published in the journal Nature Biotechnology. Key facts Scientists have genetically modified Anopheles gambiae mosquito species so that they carry a modified gene disrupting egg production in female mosquitoes. For this they had used a technology called gene drive which uses the technique of recessive genes, so that many mosquitoes will inherit only one copy of the gene. Usually two copies in female Anopheles gambiae mosquitoes are needed for fertility. But the one copy of the gene makes female infertile by disrupting egg production. The genes were modified with the help of CRISPR/Cas9 endonuclease which is a type of DNA cutting tool that modify the very specific parts of the genetic code. The trait of modified gene can be passed through a population of mosquitoes over time and can help to drastically reduce or eliminate the malaria-carrying mosquito species. The findings represent an important scientific step in the ability to develop novel methods of vector control. It should be noted that mosquito species Anopheles gambiae are the major carrier of dangerous malaria parasites in sub-Saharan Africa region where 90 per cent of annual malaria deaths occur. Every year, malaria infects more than 200 million people and causes more than 430,000 deaths across the globe.

13. Iran has successfully carried out test of medium range Ghadr-110 ballistic missile near the Chabahar, a port city in southeast of country along the Gulf of Oman. The test was held in November 2015, but was disclosed by the western intelligence agencies in December 2015. With this Iran so far has breached of two United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions which compels it to refrain from any work on ballistic missiles for 8 years. Key facts Ghadr-110 ballistic missile is an improved and advance version of Shahab 3 missile which is similar to the precision guided missile that was tested by Iran in October 2015. It has a range of 1,800 –2000 km and is capable of carrying a nuclear warhead as well as conventional warheads. Missile test ban Currently under the 2010 UNSC resolution all ballistic missile tests have been banned in Iran until a nuclear deal between Iran and P5+1 nations is implemented. Under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPA) reached on July 2015 between Iran and P5+1 nations most sanctions on Iran were lifted in exchange for curbs on its nuclear program. But the deal had refrained Iran from working on ballistic missiles designed to deliver nuclear weapons for up to eight years. P5+1 nations: It is group of six world powers which had joined together in 2006 to reach diplomatic efforts with Iran with regard to its nuclear program. The term P5+1 refers to the UNSC five permanent members China, France, Russia, United Kingdom and United States plus Germany.

14. World number one women shuttler Carolina Marin from Spain has won the 2015 Female Badminton Player of the Year award. She was presented with the award by the Badminton World Federation (BWF) President Poul-Erik Hoyer in Dubai. India’s Saina Nehwal along with Zhao Yunlei of China (2014 winner) and another Chinese Bao Yixin were in race for this annual award in Female category.

15. Indian-American entrepreneur and philanthropist Frank Islam (63) has been selected for the prestigious 2015 Uttar Pradesh Ratna Award. He has been chosen for this award in recognition of his achievements and outstanding contributions in a foreign country. He will be bestowed upon with award by UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav at the inaugural UP Pravasi Diwas on January 4, 2016 in Agra.

16. Parliament passed the Negotiable Instruments (Amendment) Bill, 2015. It was first passed by Lok Sabha in August 2015 and later in Rajya Sabha in December 2015. The bill seeks to amend The Negotiable Instruments Act, 1881 in order to make cheque-bounce filing of cases more convenient for check payees (person who receives the cheque). Key features of Bill Adds provision to specify the territorial jurisdiction of the courts in cases related to bouncing of cheques which was not present in the parent Act. It says that cases in this regard need to be filed only in a court in whose jurisdiction the bank branch of the payee lies. It also adds provision related to more than one case is filed against the same person before different courts for bouncing of cheques. In this matter, the case will be transferred to the court that has appropriate jurisdiction. The bill also amends the definition of cheque. Redefines cheque in the electronic form which is signed in a secure system with a digital signature or using electronic system and drawn in electronic medium using any computer resource.

17. Pune and Rajkot have become the new interim franchises in the Indian Premier League (IPL) through the reverse bidding process. They will replace the suspended teams of Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Rajasthan Royals (RR) for a period of two years. The Pune franchise was bought by Kolkata-based company New Rising owned by business tycoon Sanjiv Goenka, while Intex Mobiles won the bid for the Rajkot franchise. Mr. Goenka will shell out 10 crore rupees per year to the Board of Cricket Council of India (BCCI) for the Pune franchise, while Intex Mobiles will pay 16 crore rupees for the two-year. Reverse bidding process Both new interim franchises were picked through the reverse bidding process for which the base price was set at 40 crore rupees. The bidders were to quote an amount less than that and the lowest bidders were given the franchises. Now, players from CSK and RR franchises will be divided between two teams of capped and uncapped draft system. The two new teams will have a minimum of 40 crore rupees and a maximum of 66 crore rupees to buy their players. Background Earlier, the Supreme Court-appointed Justice (Retd) R.M. Lodha committee had suspended CSK and RR after it was found the involvement some of their officials and co-owners in the 2013 IPL spot-fixing scandal. The committee has suspended both teams for 2 years term and have been allowed back in the league after serving out their suspension term.

18. Union Government has introduced Atomic Energy (Amendment) Bill, 2015 to facilitate and fast track setting up of new nuclear projects in the country. It was introduced by Union Minister of State (MoS) for Atomic Energy and Space Dr Jitendra Singh. The Bill seeks to amend the Atomic Energy Act, 1962. Key provisions of the Atomic Energy (Amendment) Bill, 2015 Under the Act, a government company is one in which at least 51% of the paid-up share capital is held by the central government. Paid-up share capital is the capital received by a company from the issue of shares. Redefines paid-up share capital: Expands the definition of paid-up share capital in parent Act to include joint ventures (JV) of public sector undertakings (PSUs). The whole of the paid up share capital would be held by one or more PSUs and empowers the Union government to constitute its Board of Directors for such JV. Licenses: Henceforth it will only be granted to entities such as a government company or a department of Union Government. Under the parent Act, license is required for acquisition, production, use, export and import of any plant designed for the production and development of atomic energy or research. License granted will be cancelled if it ceases to be a government company for (i) acquiring and using substances or minerals from which atomic energy can be obtained (ii) producing atomic energy etc. Comment The amendment to Atomic Energy Act, 1962 has been proposed to facilitate the fast expansion of nuclear power and its generation in the country to meet electricity demand. The passage of Bill would enable Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCI) to enter into joint ventures (JVs) with other public sector undertakings (PSUs) for civil nuclear power projects. Note: The Atomic Energy Act, 1962 empowers the Union government to produce, develop, control, and use atomic energy.

19. The Maharashtra legislature has become the first in the country to launch an online mechanism for its members to send questions and move different motions in the House. In this regard state government has launched a website mls.org.in as part of Digital MLAs initiative in the winter session of state legislature in Nagpur. Key facts This system has been launched in an effort of state government to move towards complete digitization of the legislative process that aims at bringing the paper work to minimum. All MLAs and MLCs have been given unique user names and passwords to access to website so that they can send their questions and requests online. Facilitates them to move different motions like calling attention and half-an-hour discussion questions for legislature sessions. The system has been designed by the Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Limited (MKCL).

20. Lok Sabha has passed The High Court and the Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Amendment Bill, 2015 The Bill amends the Supreme Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1958 and the High Court Judges (Salaries and Conditions of Service) Act, 1954. Key features of Bill The Bill aims at removing anomalies in pensionary benefits of High Court judges elevated from the bar. Seeks to bring uniformity and do away with the indiscrimination of salaries and pensions for judges elevated from the Bar

21. Opposition Centre-right Democratic Unity Roundtable (MUD) coalition has won the 2015 Parliamentary elections of Venezuela. The MUD coalition won at least 99 seats in the 167-seat legislature of the National Assembly by defeating ruling United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) led by President Nicolás Maduro. In this election, PSUV won 46 seats and remaining candidates from different parties have won 22 seats. With this, the 17 years of socialist ruling regime came to an end which was founded by former President Hugo Chavez in 1999. Background 2015 Parliamentary election for the 167 members of the National Assembly of Venezuela was held on 6 December 2015 and was based on a mixed majoritarian system. Under this system, of the total 167 members, 113 members are elected by first-past-the-post voting in 87 constituencies. 51 seats are elected by closed list of proportional representation based on the 23 states and the Capital District and the seats are allocated using the d’Hondt method. The remaining 3 seats are reserved for indigenous peoples and are elected by the community. Venezuela: It is oil-rich Latin American country located on the northern coast of South America. Presently, the country is facing worst economic slowdown due to due to continuing low price of oil in the international market as it is its main export commodity. It also has the highest inflation rate around 100 per cent in 2015 in the South America.

22. The Chinese government has issued its first red alert on pollution (smog) it its Capital Beijing due to hazardous air quality caused by severe air pollution. The warning was an upgrade from the previous second highest orange alert. The red alert is the most serious (highest) warning on a four-tier system of emergency air-pollution response system was adopted in 2013. Under the alert Government has advised schools to be voluntarily close unless they had good air filtration systems. Half of private cars in the capital city would be also ordered off the road during the period with an odd-even number plate system in force. The other extra measures to be enforced include halting outdoor construction, banning fireworks and outdoor cooking. China, the world’s biggest carbon emitter in recent times is grappling with the serious chronic problem of the air pollution leading to smog in cities. Most of the pollution is caused by the coal-fired power plants along with vehicle emissions, heating systems and construction and factory work. Particulate matter (PM) 2.5 Readings of Particulate Matter (PM) 2.5 particles in Beijing also has climbed 300 micrograms per cubic meter which is far more than World Health Organization (WHO) permissible limit of 25 per cubic meter. PM2.5 are fine particles less than 2.5 microns in diameter that may occur naturally or from anthropogenic activities like human industrial processes. They often reach the lungs causing lifelong respiratory disease and may be fatal if it mixes into the bloodstream.

23. The eighth edition of India-Russia joint naval exercise-INDRA NAVY-15 has begun in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. INDRA NAVY-15 is a bilateral maritime joint naval exercise between the Indian and Russian navies for epitomising the strategic relationship between the two countries. About INDRA NAVY-15 The primary aim is to increase interoperability between the navies of two countries and develop common understanding of procedures for maritime security operations. The scope includes wide- ranging professional interactions during the Harbour phase and spectrum of maritime operations during the Sea Phase. The Harbour Phase encompasses planning conferences ashore and table-top exercises prior to progressing to sea. The Sea Phase would include various facets of fleet operations. Indian Navy will be represented by: INS Sahyadri– an indigenous frigate, INS Ranvijay– a guided missile destroyer and INS Shakti-a Fleet Support Ship. It also is represented by INS Sindhuvir– a submarine, P81 Long Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Dornier Short Range Maritime Patrol Aircraft, Hawk Advanced Jet Trainer. Russian Federation Navy (RFN) will be represented by: 4 ships from Vladivostok based Pacific Fleet. They are Bystry-a destroyer, Varyag-a cruiser, Alatau-a rescue ocean going tug and Boris Butoma-a fleet tanker. INDRA NAVY-15 bilateral naval exercise was initiated in 2003. Since then, it has matured over the years with increasing scope, complexity of operations and level of participation. The eight edition of exercise will be another milestone in strengthening maritime security cooperation between the two navies. It will also serve to reinforce the long-standing bond of friendship between both countries.

24. National Security Advisor (NSA) level talks between India and Pakistan were held in Bangkok, Thailand. It was attended by India’s NSA Ajit Doval and his Pakistani counterpart Naseer Khan Janjua. Foreign secretaries S. Jaishankar (India) and Aziz Ahmad Chaudhary (Pakistan) were also present during the high level meet. Key facts Both sides in the meeting discussed peace and security, terrorism, Jammu and Kashmir and other issues including tranquility along the Lince of Control. The dialogue mainly covered issues of key interest to both countries including terrorism for India and the Kashmir dispute for Pakistan. They also agreed to carry forward the constructive engagement between both countries. Background The NSA level talks come in the backdrop of the recent meeting between Prime ministers of India and Pakistan in Paris, France on the lines of UNFCCC summit. Earlier in September 2015, the planned NSA level talks based on 2015 Ufa declaration between both countries was called off at last moment.

25. Canada has successfully sent the first consignment of 250 tonnes of uranium to India as part of bilateral civil nuclear cooperation between both countries. It was shipped by Canada’s Cameco Inc, as part of contract with Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) that was signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s offical visit to Canada in April 2015. With this the 41-year-long hiatus in the bilateral nuclear cooperation between both countries finally came to an end. Canada had completely banned exports of uranium and nuclear hardware to India after it had conducted first nuclear test on 18 May 1974. It was alleged that India had used Canadian technology to develop a nuclear bomb for this test. It should be noted that Canada is the second-largest producer of Uranium globally and is the third country to supply uranium to India after Russia and Kazakhstan. Background The India-Canada civil nuclear contract was signed in line with the Canada-India Nuclear Cooperation Agreement that took effect in 2013. The agreement was signed after the Nuclear Supplier Group (NSG) had granted its waiver for use of atomic power for civilian purposes in 2008 ending India’s 3 decade long isolation from international nuclear trade. As per the supply agreement, Canada’s Cameco Corporation is going to supply 3,000 metric tonnes of uranium to India for next five years starting from year 2015. These supplies will be under the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) safeguards.

26. Singapore has replaced Mauritius as the top source of foreign direct investment (FDI) into India during the first half of the current fiscal year 2015-16. It was unveiled by the data during April to September 2015 period released by the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP). Key facts India has attracted 6.69 billion dollars FDI from Singapore while it received 3.66 billion dollars from Mauritius. Highest foreign investment sector wise : Computer software and hardware (3.05 billion dollars), trading (2.30 billion dollars), services and automobile (1.46 billion dollars each) and telecommunications (659 million dollars). Foreign investment from Singapore has more than doubled from 2.41 billion dollars in the same period in FY year 2014-15. Overall, Singapore accounts for 15 per cent of the total inbound FDI received by India during April 2000 and September 2015. However, Mauritius accounted for 34 per cent of FDI during the same period.

27. Indian Railways has flagged off the first inaugural service of the Goa to Mumbai double-decker air-conditioned Shatabdi train. The fully air-conditioned double-decker train was the first of its kind in the country and was flagged off from Panaji by Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu. It would play important role in boosting tourism in Goa by bringing the tourists over to the coastal state during the peak tourist season. The train will run thrice a week between Margao Railway Station and the Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) in Mumbai. It would cover the distance between two states in around 12 hours and has total eight compartments with a seating capacity of 120 in each compartment.

28. Australia has won the 2014-15 Men’s Hockey World League Final by defeating Belgium. In the final match played at Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel Stadium, Raipur Australian team defeated Belgium by 2-1 goals. India was placed at third place in this league after defeating world number two and defending champions Netherlands by 3-2 goals in the penalty shoot-out. Top three teams of Hockey World League Final Champions: Australia (1st title). Runner-up: Belgium. Third place: India. In this edition of Men’s Hockey World League Final total 8 teams had participated. They were Australia, India (Host), Belgium, Great Britain, Germany, Argentina, Netherlands and Canada.

29. The World Bank has launched a $500 million dollars Transformative Carbon Asset Facility (TCAF) to help developing countries pay for emission reductions and combat climate change. It is market-based scheme specially designed to help developing countries and would establish the world’s first programmatic carbon market. Key facts The scheme will reward countries for reducing emissions by paying a fee for each tonne of carbon dioxide (CO2) reduced. The facility will help countries implement their Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs). Of the total 500 million dollars, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland have jointly pledged an initial 250 million dollars investment. The scheme would support renewable energy, energy efficiency and waste management projects as well to cut emissions in cities and from the transport sector.

30. Kaher Kazem has been appointed as President and Managing Director General Motors (GM) India operations. His appointment will come into effect from 1 January 2015 and shall replace Arvind Saxena who has decided to retire after leading the company since early 2014 Presently, Kazem is serving as chief operating officer (COO) of GM India since early 2015.Earlier he had managed the industrial side of the business and was president and MD of GM Uzbekistan from 2012.

31. Union Government has launched Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan (Accessible India Campaign), a nationwide campaign in a bid to achieve universal accessibility to persons with disabilities. It was launched by Union Minister of Finance Arun Jaitley and Union Minister of Social Justice & Empowerment Thaawarchand Gehlot on the occasion of International Day of Persons with Disabilities (3 December). About Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan Aims to enable persons with disabilities to gain universal access, equal opportunity for development, independent living and participation in an inclusive society in all aspects of life. The campaign has been drafted by Union Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment in line with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (UNCRPD) to which India is a signatory. Target set by the campaign: Envisages making all railway stations of A1, A & B categories and the international airports in the country fully accessible to the disabled by July 2016. Seeks to convert at least 10% of government owned public transport carriers in the country fully accessible carriers for disabled persons by March 2018. Meet at least 50% for issuing all public documents by the Central and State Governments to meet accessibility standards for persons with disabilities by March 2018.

32. China has granted a license for production of first manned two seater electric aircraft RX1E known as RX1E by the Civil Aviation Administration of China. The aircraft has been designed by Shenyang Aerospace University and Liaoning General Aviation Academy in northeastern Liaoning province. Key facts RX1E electric light-sport aircraft and it is China’s first manned electric light aircraft. This plane is powered by lithium batteries and is capable of flying a maximum altitude of 3000 meters. The plane has a 47-foot wingspan and has a charging time of 90 minutes enables it to fly for 45 to 60 minutes. The plane can take the maximum takeoff weight of 480 kg.

33. According to the recently released India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2015, India’s forest and tree cover has been increased by 5081 Square kilometre. The report was released by the Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar in New Delhi Key facts The total forest and tree cover in the country is 79.42 million hectare, which accounts for 24.16 per cent of the total geographical area. The total forest cover of the country has increased by 3, 775 sq km and the tree cover has gone up by 1, 306 sq km. The majority of the increase in forest cover has been observed in open forest category mainly outside forest areas, followed by Very Dense Forest. Open Forest area: Increased by 4744 sq km and accounts for 9.14 per cent of the total geographical area. Very Dense Forest area: Increased by 2404 sq km and accounts for 2.61 per cent of the total geographical area. Total carbon stock: Increased by 1.48 per cent (103 million tonnes) and is estimated to be 7, 044 million tonnes in the country’s forest. Around 40 per cent forest cover in India is in 9 big patches of 10, 000 sq kms and more. The increase in mangrove cover also has been included in the increase in total forest cover. State wise maximum increase in forest cover: Tamil Nadu (2, 501 sq km), Kerala (1, 317 sq km) and Jammu & Kashmir (450 sq km). Largest forest cover in terms of area: Madhya Pradesh (77, 462 sq km), Arunachal Pradesh (67, 248 sq km) and Chhattisgarh (55, 586 sq km). Highest percentage of forest cover: Mizoram (88.93%), Lakshadweep (84.56%). States/UTs having forest cover above 33 per cent: 15 States/UTs have forest cover above 33 percent of the geographical area. Out of these 7 states/UTs have more than 75 per cent forest cover. They are Mizoram, Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar Island, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya and Manipur. 8 states have forest cover in between 33 per cent to 75 per cent. They are Tripura, Goa, Sikkim, Kerala, Uttarakhand, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, Chhattisgarh and Assam. Background The India State of Forest Report (ISFR) 2015 is the fourteenth report in the series. It is based on interpretation of LISS (Linear Imaging Self-Scanning Sensor) III data of indigenous remote sensing satellite, Resourcesat–II. The satellite data interpretation is based extensive and rigorous ground truthing.

34. The South Western Railways (SWR) Zone with headquarters in Hubli, Karnataka has introduced biodiesel for trains, operating under its zone. In this regard, SWR’s first train Hubballi-Bengaluru Janshatabdi Express powered by five per cent biodiesel blended with High Speed Diesel was flagged off from Hubli. The main aim of the initiative is to reduce greenhouse gases (GHGs) emission and carbon footprint and also to make fuel consumption more efficient. To meet its biodiesel demand, SWR zone has set up Biodiesel filling centres at Hubli, Bengaluru and Hospet. In next one year all the 13 railway depots within the zone will have their own filling units and the biodiesel blending will be gradually increased to ten percent. Biodiesel Biodiesel is a green fuel that provides quasi-renewable energy for cleaner alternatives as sustainable fuel for diesel locomotives and reduces dependency on fossil fuel especially diesel. It is commonly obtained from crops such as sugarcane, cassava, corn, potato, beetroot and recently from grapes, banana and dates etc. Union Government is promoting use of biodiesel in India Railways for the purpose of energy security, cleaner air and savings in foreign exchange along with employment opportunities in rural areas.

35. Chief Economic Advisor Dr Arvind Subramanian led Committee has recommended standard rate for Goods and Services Tax (GST) at 17 to 18 per cent. The Committee has submitted its report to Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in New Delhi. Recommendations of Dr Arvind Subramanian Committee Standard GST rate of 17 to 18 per cent. It is the rate at which most products would likely be taxed. Not to specify GST rate in Constitutional Amendment Bill. Revenue-neutral rate of 15 to 15.5 per cent. It is a single rate at which there will be no revenue loss to the centre and states in the GST regime. Eliminate all taxes on inter-state trade including one per cent inter-state tax on transfer of goods. Two options for states: Single rate of 1 per cent or a range of 17-18 per cent. Allocation to states will depend on revenues raised by Centre and states. Three-tier GST rate structure: Essential goods will be taxed at a lower rate of 12 per cent. Demerit goods such as luxury cars, aerated beverages, pan masala and tobacco products will be taxed at 40 percent and remaining all goods will be taxed at a standard rate of 17 to 18 per cent. Excluded real estate, electricity and alcohol and petroleum products while calculating tax rates but suggests bringing them under the ambit of GST soon. Background Union government had set up the committee under chairmanship of CEA Dr. Subramanian in June 2015 to arrive at GST rates by factoring in the economic growth rate, taxpayer base and tax compliance levels. Goods and Services Tax (GST) GST aims to bring uniform indirect tax regime throughout the country by subsuming central and state indirect taxes into single indirect tax. It seeks to enhance fiscal federalism by removing indirect tax barriers across states and integrate the country into a common market, boosting government revenue and reducing business costs.

36. Allahabad High Court in its judgment has made married daughters of deceased government employees eligible for appointments on compassionate grounds in government jobs. Ruling in this regard was given by a bench comprising Chief Justice DY Chandrachud and Justice Yashwant Verma on a petition filed by a Vimla Srivastava. The petitioner had challenged the validity of clauses 2C-3 of Uttar Pradesh Recruitment of Government Servants Dying in Harness Rules. The Clause 2C-3 only allowed unmarried or widowed daughters of deceased government employees eligible for appointment on compassionate grounds. Allahabad High Court Judgment High Court held that clause 2C-3 is unconstitutional and violated fundamental rights. Observed that when married son could get jobs on compassionate grounds then there is no reason to deny the same to married daughter. Pointed out that the exclusion of married daughters violated Article 14 (Right to Equality), Article 15 (prohibition of discrimination on the grounds of sex, religion, caste etc.) and Article 16 (equality of opportunity in matters of public employment)

37. Himachal Pradesh has become the first state in the country to start Rotavirus vaccination project under the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP). The project was launched by Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh from Dharamsala in district Kangra by administering the Rotavirus vaccine drops to the children aged less than 5 years. Rotavirus vaccination project is based on the analogy of the polio vaccine. Under it Rotavirus drops would be administered to the children at 6, 10 and 14 weeks after birth. The vaccination project will help in controlling the deaths amongst small children due to Diarrhoea. About Rotavirus The Rotavirus is a genus of double-stranded RNA virus in the family Reoviridae. It most common causative agent of moderate-to-severe diarrhoea (MSD) among infants below 11 months age group in India. Transmission: The virus spreads from person to person due to bacterial and parasiting agents that are primarily transmitted through contaminated food or water. Impact on Health: It causes gastroenteritis after it damages the cells that line the small intestine and causes gastroenteritis.

38. The Delhi Assembly has unanimously passed the Delhi Jan Lokpal Bill, 2015 for establishment of statutory anti-corruption ombudsman. The Bill provides powers to Lokpal to act against any government functionary including those of the Centre and in the national capital territory (NCT) of Delhi through its own investigation wing. Key provisions of Jan Lokpal Bill, 2015 Composition: Janlokpal will be a three member body with Chairperson and two members. They would be appointed by on recommendation of selection committee consisting of Chief Minister, Leader of Opposition and Speaker of Delhi Legislative Assembly. Jurisdiction: On receiving corruption complaints from the government or from members of public Janlokpal is empowered to investigate an allegation of corruption in the NCT including the Chief Minister’s office. It can even probe acts of corruption against Union ministers and central government officials working in the NCT of Delhi Investigation time period: The Lokpal will have to complete the investigation within a period of six months. Constitution of Special Courts: Delhi Government in consultation with the Chief Justice of Delhi High Court may constitute special courts as recommended by Janlokpal. The proceedings instituted by the Janlokpal cannot be stayed by any court. Quantum of Punishment: Rigorous imprisonment ranging from 6 months to 10 years. In rarest of rare cases it may be extended to life term. Those who file false cases against public functionaries would be also punished. Confiscation of Assets: The assets accumulated through corrupt means will be confiscated. Janlokpal may also confiscate property belonging to public servant if it has not been disclosed. Power of transfer or suspension of Public Servant: Janlokpal may recommend Government to suspend or transfer the public servant for a specified period if it feels that continuance of public servant under investigation might tamper with evidence or influence witnesses or affect the investigation. Whistleblowers Protection: Janlokpal can issue necessary orders to provide full protection for whistleblowers by protecting confidentiality and providing security. It can also initiate criminal action against the person involved in harassment of whistleblower.

39. Uttar Pradesh Government has launched International festival on Birds in a bid to promote state as an international bird-watching destination. The first-of-its-kind festival was inaugurated by Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav at the National Chambal Sanctuary (NCS). It has been jointly organised by the State Forest department in collaboration with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). The three-day international festival (from 4 to 6 December 2015) on birds will be held the National Chambal Sanctuary (NCS) in Agra. Over 80 Indian ornithlogists and around 25 top international bird experts and are participating in the first-of-its-kind festival. About National Chambal Sanctuary NCS was set up in 1979 as a riverine sanctuary along the Chambal River. It is managed by the Wildlife wing of the Uttar Pradesh Forest Department and its head-quartered are located at Agra. The sanctuary is the main area for the Gharial (Gavialis gangeticus), a fresh water crocodile species reintroduction programmme in the Chambal River. The river supports the largest population of the Gharial in the wild in the country. It also supports more than 320 resident and migrant birds.

40. Australia’s Federal Parliament has passed Australian Citizenship Amendment (Allegiance to Australia) Bill, 2015 to strip citizenship of convicted persons on terrorism charges. The new legislation allows government to strip dual nationals of their citizenship if they are convicted of terrorism offences. Key provisions Those who are found to have fought for banned terrorist group overseas, their citizenship will be automatically terminated. The dual nationals would lose their citizenship if the person is convicted of a terrorism offence and sentenced to at least 6 years’ of imprisonment Those who are found engaged in terrorist acts such as providing or receiving training in for carrying a terrorist attack, recruit or finance terrorists (organisations) or terrorism. If any person is convicted of terrorism in the previous decade then the new law has retrospective measures to allow revoking of citizenship convicted terrorists.

41. Distinguished Scientist M Nair Rajeevan (54) has been appointed as Secretary of Union Ministry of Earth Sciences. His for appointment of this post was cleared by Appointment Committee of Cabinet (ACC) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Presently, Rajeevan is serving as Director at Pune based Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM). Earlier he had served in renowned institutions like Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) and Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

42. Paris Pact on Water and Climate Change Adaptation has been announced by a broad coalition of nations, river basin organizations, business and civil societies from across the globe. It was announced during the on-going 2015 United Nations Climate Change Conference, Conference of Parties (COP-21) in Le Bourget, Paris, France. The announcement was made as part of the Water Resilience Focus event under the Lima to Paris Action Agenda (LPAA) on climate change. Paris Pact on water and climate change adaptation Aims to make water systems which are very foundation of sustainable human development more resilient to climate change impacts. It involves a wide geographic coalition of national and cross-border river basin organisations along with governments, local governments, funding agencies, companies and civil society Highlights other key partnerships and coalitions to make river basins, aquifers, lakes and deltas more resilient to climate change and reduce human interference with oceans. It encompasses individual commitments to implement adaptation plans, strengthening water monitoring and measurement systems in river basins. It also seeks at promoting financial sustainability and new investment in water systems management. It was signed by almost all countries and have committed for over one billion dollars. India also has agreed to contribute 20 million dollars to build climate resilience through improved groundwater management. About Lima to Paris Action Agenda (LPAA) The LPAA on climate change is a joint undertaking of the Peruvian and French COP (conference of parties) presidencies, UNFCCC Secretariat and the Office of the Secretary-General of UN. Aims to strengthen climate action through 2015 and beyond by mobilizing robust global action towards low carbon and more climate resilient societies. It seeks to provide enhanced support to the existing initiatives and help to mobilize new partners by providing them a common platform for the visibility of their commitments, actions and results in the run up to COP21.