WBCSMadeEasy

1) The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved restructured National Bamboo Mission (NBM), a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) during remaining period of 14th Finance Commission (2018-20) with an outlay of Rs. 1290 crore. The restructured mission will ensure holistic development of bamboo sector by addressing complete value chain and establish effective linkage of producers (farmers) with industry. Empowerment of Executive Committee: CCEA has also approved Empowerment of Executive Committee for formulation of guidelines of NBM and make changes therein, including cost norms for various interventions from time-to-time as per needs felt and specific recommendations of states with approval of Minister for Agriculture & Farmers Welfare. Objectives of restructured NBM: Increase area under bamboo plantation in non-forest Government and private lands to supplement farm income and contribute towards resilience to climate change. Improve post-harvest management through establishment of innovative primary processing units, treatment and seasoning plants, primary treatment and seasoning plants, preservation technologies and market infrastructure. Promote product development at micro, small and medium levels and feed bigger industry. Rejuvenate the under developed bamboo industry in India. Promote skill development, capacity building, awareness generation for development of bamboo sector. Beneficiaries: The restructured mission will benefit directly and indirectly farmers as well as local artisans and associated personnels engaged in bamboo sector including associated industries. It will directly benefit about one lakh farmers as it has proposed to bring about one lakh ha area under plantation. It is expected to establish about 4000 treatment and product development units and bring more than 100000 ha area under plantation. States/districts to be covered: The restructured mission will focus on development of bamboo in limited states where it has social, commercial and economical advantage, particularly in North Eastern region and in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Uttarakhand, Karnataka, Bihar, Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Gujarat, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. Impact: The bamboo plantation will contribute in optimizing farm productivity and income thereby enhancing livelihood opportunities of small and marginal farmers including landless and women as well as provide quality material to industry. The restructured mission will serve as potential instrument for enhancing income of farmers and also contribute towards climate resilience and environmental benefits. It will also help in creating employment generation directly or indirectly in both skilled and unskilled segments. National Bamboo Mission (NBM): NBM, a Centrally Sponsored Scheme was started in 2006-07. It was subsumed under Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) during 2014-15 and continued till 2015-16. It aims to promote growth of bamboo sector through area based regionally differentiated strategy. Objectives: Increase coverage area under bamboo in potential areas, with improved varieties to enhance yields. Promote marketing of bamboo and bamboo based handicrafts. Establish convergence and synergy among stake-holders for the development of bamboo. Promote, develop and disseminate technologies through seamless blend of traditional wisdom and modern scientific knowledge. Generate employment opportunities for skilled and unskilled persons, especially unemployed youths. The NBM mainly emphasized on propagation and cultivation of bamboo, with limited efforts on processing, product development and value addition. There is weak linkage between farmers (producers) and industry. The restructured mission addresses the complete value chain for growth of the bamboo sector.

2) Bilateral joint training exercise HARIMAU SHAKTI 2018 between India and Malaysia will be conducted in the dense forests of Sengai Perdik, Hulu Langat, Malaysia from 30 April 18 to 13 May 2018 as part of ongoing defence cooperation between both countries. The exercise aims at bolstering cooperation and coordination between armed forces of both nations. It also seeks to share expertise of both contingents in conduct of counter insurgency operations in jungle terrain. Key Facts: In this bilateral military exercise, Indian contingent is being represented by 4 GRENADIERS, one of the oldest infantry battalions having rich operational experience in conventional as well as counter insurgency warfare. Malaysian contingent is being represented by soldiers from 1 Royal Ranjer Regiment and Royal Malay Regiment, known for their experience in Jungle Warfare. This is the first instance wherein a joint training exercise of this magnitude involving Indian and Malaysian soldiers is being organized on Malaysian soil. It will involve cross training phase followed by field training phase of seven days in jungles of Hulu Langat wherein both armies will jointly train, plan and execute series of training activities. The focus of the exercise will be on tactical operations in jungle warfare. Overall, the exercise will provide excellent opportunity to armies of both countries to hone their operational skills and also contribute to enhance strategic partnership between India and Malaysia.

3) The Indian Navy has inducted Landing Craft Utility (LCU) INLCU L53 at Port Blair. LCU L53 is the third ship in series of eight Mark IV LCU vessels built and designed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), Kolkata for Navy. The first ship of the series was commissioned in 2016. Key Facts: LCU L53 MK-IV ship is amphibious ship with displacement of 830 Tons and can sail through sea at speed of 15kt. It is capable of carrying 160 troops and transporting 145 tons of military equipment including combat equipment such as Main Battle Tanks (MBTs) Arjun, T72 and other Armoured Vehicles. It is fitted with state-of-the-art equipment and advanced systems such as Integrated Bridge System (IBS) and Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS). It is also fitted with indigenous CRN 91 Gun with Stabilised Optronic Pedestal which provides ship requisite offensive capability for undertaking patrolling in addition. The ship will based in Andaman and Nicobar Command and will help Indian Navy in carrying out multi-role activities, such as beaching operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR), search and rescue and supply and replenishment of distant islands. Comment: The eight LCU Mark-IV vessels built by GRSE under LCU Mk-IV project are designed for multipurpose amphibious operations jointly carried out Indian Navy and Indian Army to ensure maritime security of Andamans and Lakshadweep islands. The remaining five ships of project are in advanced stage of construction and are scheduled to inducted into Indian Navy by end of 2019. Induction of these ships will contribute to nation’s maritime security needs and will help to accomplish India’s quest for self-reliance in shipbuilding.

4) The Union Cabinet has given approval inclusion of certain areas in Rajasthan under Fifth Schedule to Constitution so that tribals living there can avail benefit of protective measures under its provisions. The areas to be included comprises three complete districts Banswara, Dungarpur, Pratapgarh, nine tehsils, one block and 46 complete gram panchayats covering 227 villages in Udaipur, Rajsamand, Chittorgarh, Pali and Sirohi districts of Rajasthan. Key Facts: The Rajasthan Government had requested Centre for extension of Scheduled Areas in the State under Fifth Schedule to Constitution. On this request, Union Cabinet gave approval to declaration of Scheduled Areas in respect of Rajasthan under Fifth Schedule to Constitution by rescinding Constitution Order (CO) 114 dated 12th February 1981 and promulgation of new Constitution Order. The promulgation of new CO will ensure that Scheduled Tribes of Rajasthan will get benefits of protective measures available under Fifth Schedule of Constitution.No additional funds are required as to be expended on account of declaration of Scheduled Areas. This will be part of Tribal Sub-Plan (or Tribal Sub-Scheme) within existing schemes of Central and State Government for more focused attention in Scheduled Areas for effecting speedy development. Background: As per paragraph 6(1) of the Fifth Schedule {Article 244(1)} in Constitution of India, the expression ‘Scheduled Areas’ means such areas as President of India may by order declare to be Scheduled Areas. In accordance with provisions of paragraph 6(2) of Fifth Schedule, President may at any time by order increase area of any Scheduled Area in State after consultation with Governor of that State and make fresh orders redefining the areas which are to be Scheduled Areas in consultation with Governor of concerned State. The Scheduled Areas were first notified in 1950. Subsequently, Constitution Orders (CO) specifying Scheduled Areas in Rajasthan were issued in 1981.Due to re¬organization and creation of new districts and changes in population of Scheduled Tribes as per 2011 Census, Rajasthan Government has requested for extension of Scheduled Areas in the state.

5) National Physical Laboratory (CSIR-NPL) and Department of Telecommunications (DoT) have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on technical knowledge sharing for establishing nationwide Time Stamping and Time Synchronization network (TSTSN) and traceability of Time signal to UTC NPL Time. Key Facts: The nationwide TSTSN consisting of 22 numbers of Time Synchronization Centers (TSC’s) will be set up by DoT with technical assistance from CSIR-NPL. This network will provide synchronizing pulse in Indian Standard Time (IST) to all Telecom & Internet Service providers (ISPs) in all 22 LSA (Licensed Service Areas) in the country. Accuracy of the time depends upon distance between TSC (reference source) and location of the TSP/ISPs Centres. Therefore, stratum-1TSC will be established at all the 22 LSAs across the country. The project will be implemented in two phases. In first phase TSC’s will be set up in four metro LSA’s and in second phase remaining 22 LSA’s will be covered. The primary purpose of synchronizing telecom network with IST time stamp is to enable security agencies to overcome difficulty in analyzing and correlating cyber events in this era of advancement of telecom technology. It will also improve telecom network efficiency by reducing packet loss due to reduced slips in better synchronized digital network. Significance: The establishment and implementation of pan India TSTSN across Indian Telecom Network will eliminate problem of Time Synchronization among TSP/ISPs. This will lead to better efficiency of Telecom Network and reduce Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) call drop, improve Quality of Service of network, Voice, Video. It will help to curb cybercrimes and also help to identify and correlate various digital financial transactions.

6) The Union Government has entered into agreement with World Bank for flexible financing arrangement to accelerate research towards early development for biopharmaceuticals under National Biopharma Mission. The agreement was signed between project implementing agency, Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC), a PSU of Department of Biotechnology, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance and International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (IBRD) on behalf of World Bank. National Biopharma Mission: The mission was launched by Ministry of Science & Technology in 2017 at total cost of US $250 million for five years with 50% funding through World Bank Loan. It aims to make India hub for design and development of novel, affordable and effective biopharmaceutical products such as vaccines, biologics and medical devices for combating public health concerns. Its objective is to strengthen translational capability of academic researchers, empower bio-entrepreneurs and SMEs by decreasing cost and risk during early stages of product development and also elevate innovation quotient of industry. It will provide a holistic and integrated approach to strengthen and support entire product development value chain for accelerating research leads to product development. This will help not only in immediate product development for addressing public health needs, but also help to create ecosystem which will facilitate development of continuous pipeline of products. The mission will concentrate on development of specific products such as vaccines, medical devices, biotherapeutics and diagnostics etc. Besides, it will also work on establishment of shared infrastructure and facilities. It will help in building and strengthening domain specific knowledge and management skills at the same time creating and enhancing technology transfer capabilities in public and private sector.

7) The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given its approval for increase in Minimum Support Price (MSP) for Raw Jute for 2018-19 season. The MSP for Fair Average Quality (FAQ) of Raw Jute was increased to Rs.3700 per quintal for 2018-19 season from Rs. 3500 per quintal in 2017-18 season. Key Facts: The increased MSP was based on recommendations of Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP) which had taken into account cost of production, overall demand-supply, domestic and international prices before recommending MSP for Raw Jute. The increased MSP of Raw Jute is expected to ensure appropriate minimum prices to farmers and step up investment in Jute cultivation and thereby production and productivity. The Jute Corporation of India (JCI) will continue to act as Central Nodal Agency to undertake price support operations at MSP in Jute growing states. Minimum Support Price (MSP): MSP is form of agricultural market intervention undertaken by Central Government in order to insure agricultural producers are protected against any sharp fall in farm prices. It is announced for certain crops by Central Government prior to sowing season. Its purpose is to incentivize cultivators to adopt modern technology and raise productivity and overall production in line with the emerging demand patterns in the country. The prices are decided by CCEA on the basis of recommendations of the Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP). Commission for Agricultural Costs and Prices (CACP): CACP is an expert body which recommend MSPs on various crops to Central Government (CCEA) by taking into account cost of production, trends in domestic and international prices. It is an attached office of the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare. It came into existence in January 1965. Currently, CCEA comprises Chairman, Member Secretary, one Member (Official) and two Members (Non-Official). The non-official members are representatives from farming community and usually have active association with farming community.

8) The Union Cabinet has approved Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between India and World Health Organisation (WHO) represented by its Regional Office for South-East Asia acting through its country office in India. Decision in this regard was taken by Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The bilateral MoA was signed in March, 2018 in New Delhi. It aims to encourage cooperation between India and WHO. This will facilitate in improving public health status of people in India. World Health Organisation (WHO): The WHO is specialized agency of United Nations that acts as coordinating authority on international public health. It was established on 7 April 1948 and succeededHealth Organization, which was an agency of the League of Nations. It is a member of United Nations Development Group and its headquarters is located at Geneva. WHO flag features the Rod of Asclepius as a symbol for healing.

9) The Union Government (Ministry of Finance) has signed a Loan Agreement with the World Bank for IBRD credit of US$ 125 (equivalent) for Innovate in India for Inclusiveness Project. The objective of project is to nurture indigenous innovation, foster local product development and accelerate commercialization process in biopharmaceutical and medical devices industry in India. Innovate in India for Inclusiveness Project: The projects seeks to achieve its objective by bridging critical skill and infrastructure gaps to promote affordable and innovative healthcare products generation for inclusive development and increasing competitiveness in India. The project will support consortia of public, private, and academic institutions to overcome key market failures currently holding back development of innovative biopharmaceutical and medical devices industry in India. The components of project are strengthening of pilot-to market innovation ecosystem, accelerating of pilot to market process for specific products and project management and monitoring and evaluation. The closing date of project is June 2023.

10) The Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) is tying up with US and Finland to develop new pollution-forecast system that will help anticipate particulate matter (PM) levels at least two days in advance and at greater resolution. The new system will jointly developed with expertise from Finnish Meteorological Institute and US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Background: Currently, System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research (SAFAR), run out of Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune, serves as apex forecaster of pollution trends in Delhi, Mumbai, Pune and Ahmedabad. It generates likely air quality profile for a day in advance, for these cities. SAFAR monitors pollutants like PM1, PM2.5, PM10, NOx (NO, NO2), CO, Ozone, SO2, BC, Methane (CH4), Non-methane hydrocarbons (NMHC), Benzene, VOC’s, Mercury. Recently, Union Environment Ministry also had released draft of National Clean Air Programme (NCAP) that aims to improve air quality monitoring in India by increasing number of pollution monitoring stations and, incorporating it into a pollution forecast system. New pollution-forecast system The new system will use a different modelling approach as well as computational techniques from that employed in the SAFAR model. SAFAR will continue to be the backbone for pollution forecast but this new system will use different method of analysis for better resolution and more accurate forecasts.

11) Two-day coastal security exercise ‘Sagar Kavach’ to strengthen and assess the loopholes in the coastal security mechanism was held along Kerala coast. The exercise saw participation of Indian Coast Guard (ICG), Indian Navy, Coastal Police and Marine Enforcement wing and various other security stakeholders. It saw participation of three ships of India Navy, 10 of ICG, four fishing boats, besides 20 coastal police stations from Vizhinjam to Kasaragod. Key Facts: The objective of the exercise was to provide seamless seaward cover along coast by all concerned security agencies from coastal belt area to limit of territorial waters i.e. 12 nautical miles. The exercise assessed effectiveness of coastal fishing community in serving as ‘eye and ears’ for early warnings of a seaward threat. It tested intelligence and infiltration alertness and preparedness of stakeholders, including people. It provided all concerned stakeholders an opportunity to fine tune standard operating procedures and test new operation concepts for coastal security.

12) Researchers have discovered the world’s smallest land fern named Malvi’s adder’s-tongue fern (Ophioglossum malviae) inAhwa forests of Western Ghats in Gujarat’s Dang district. Ferns are seasonal and mostly grow with first monsoon rains. They are not very common even in the locality they are found in. Key Facts: The fingernail-sized fern belongs to group known as adder’s-tongue ferns, named after their resemblance to snake’s tongue. Its size is just one centimetre (the most similar adder’s-tongue fern is 10 cm tall). Its minuscule seeds (called spores) has unique thick outer layer which is not present in similar species. It is differed from similar ferns in not just size but also in other complex fern features too.

13) Scientists have discovered a giant mosquito with a wingspan of 11.15 centimetres in China’s Sichuan province. The mosquito belongs to the world’s largest mosquito species Holorusia mikado. This species mosquito was first found in Japan and normally have wing span of about eight centimetres. Key Facts: The giant mosquito was found in August 2017 during field trip to Mount Qingcheng in Chengdu, capital of south-west China’s Sichuan province. The mosquito mainly feeds on nectar and not on blood. The adults of this sepecies have lifespan of only few days and are found in areas with dense vegetation. They are weak fliers because of their big bodies and when they fly, it is more like hopping.

14) The Union Government, Madhya Pradesh Government and World Bank have signed $210 million loan agreement for Madhya Pradesh Rural Connectivity Project. The Project aims to improve durability, resilience and safety of gravel surfaced rural roads and enhance capacity of state to manage its rural roads network. Madhya Pradesh Rural Connectivity Project: The project will cover 10,510 km stretch of rural roads in Madhya Pradesh that fall under Chief Minister’s Gram Sadak Yojana (CMGSY) program. Of this 10,000 km will be upgraded from existing gravel to bituminous surface roads, while 510 km of new roads will be built to same bituminous surface standard. The project will undertake resilience measures such as surface sealing of roads, embankment pitching and balancing culverts to prevent damages caused by extreme flood events. It will enhance rural road connectivity instate which will open up opportunities for economic development and access to social services for beneficiary communities in the state and help in reducing poverty. The project will focus on improving road safety by collecting accident data and analysing it at central and state levels through implementation of Road Accident Database Management System (RADMS) and strengthen road safety capacity at central level and focus on training.

15) The Ministry of Tourism has awarded Letters of Intent to 9 agencies for 22 monuments under Phase-IV of Adopt a Heritage Project: Apni Dharohar, Apni Pehchaan Scheme. It was third award ceremony of the scheme conducted by Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with Ministry of Culture and Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), State/UTs Governments in New Delhi. So far, 31 prospective monument mitras have been shortlisted under the scheme by Oversight and Vision committee for developing tourist friendly amenities at 95 monuments. Adopt a Heritage project Scheme: Ministry of Tourism in close collaboration with Ministry of Culture and ASI had launched the scheme in September 2017 to preserve rich cultural and natural heritage and to promote tourism across length and breadth of our country. Under it, selected public sector companies, private sector companies and individuals will develop tourist amenities at heritage sites. They are being called as ‘Monument Mitra’ and adopt the sites essentially under their Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) activity. Objectives of Scheme: Provide world class tourist facilities at various natural and cultural heritage sites, monuments and other tourist sites. Make these selected sites tourist friendly, enhance their tourist potential and cultural importance in planned and phased manner across the country. Features: The project primarily focuses on providing basic amenities that include cleanliness, public convenience, drinking water, ease of access for tourists, signage etc. and advanced amenities like Souvenir shop, Cafeteria, TFC etc. It seeks active participation of industry to ensure sustainable model formulation for tourism sector. The public and private companies adopting these monuments will also look after their operations and maintenance initially for 5 years subject to review at any time. Resources for capital and recurring cost for this project is proposed through industry participation, through CSR or any other funding option subject to review and approval of Oversight & Vision Committee. The heritage sites and monuments enlisted under this project are categorized as green, blue and orange on basis of tourist footfall and visibility. It is mandatory for monument mitra, opting for monument from green category to choose at least one site from either blue or orange category.

16) The World Malaria Day (WMD) is being observed every year on 25 April across the world to recognise the global efforts to control preventable vector borne disease malaria. It also seeks to highlight the need for continued investment and sustained political commitment for elimination and control of malaria. The theme of 2018 WMD is “Ready to beat malaria“. The theme marks mportance of collective responsibility and commitment of global community in bringing together people on working towards making world free of malaria. It also puts exemplary progress achieved in tackling malaria under spotlight. Background: The World Malaria Day (WMD) was established by the 60th session of World Health Assembly, a decision-making body of World Health Organization (WHO) in May 2007. It was established to provide understanding and education of malaria and also spread information on year-long intensified implementation of national malaria-control strategies. It is one of eight official global public health campaigns currently marked by the WHO. Malaria: Malaria is mosquito-borne infectious disease most commonly transmitted through the bite of infected female Anopheles mosquito. It caused by parasitic protozoans (a group of single-celled microorganisms) belonging to Plasmodium type. After an infected mosquito bites human, parasites begin to multiply in person’s liver. It progresses to infect and destroy red blood cells (RBCs) in the body. Common symptoms of severe malaria include flu, fever and chills respiratory distress and deep breathing, abnormal bleeding, signs of anaemia and impaired consciousness. Malaria can be controlled by early diagnosis.

17) Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan at Ramnagar, tribal-dominated district of Madhya Pradesh on the occasion of National Panchayati Raj Day (24 April). The scheme aims to strengthen the country’s Panchayati Raj system and address critical gaps that hinder its success. Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan: It is central government scheme that aims at making rural local bodies self-sustainable, financially stable and more efficient. It seeks to address critical gaps that hinder success of Panchayats by enhancing their capacities and effectiveness, and promote devolution of powers and responsibilities. Its intended objective is to train and build capacity of elected representatives of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs). It seeks to shift the participative planning, prepared from the grassroots level upwards and strengthen panchayat level governance with more appropriate capacity building. Recently, he Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by PM Modi had approved restructured Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA) to focus on training, building infrastructure, stepping up initiatives for e-governance under e-Panchayat Mission Mode Project (MMP) to deliver Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will be implemented during period from April 2018 to March 2022 with outlay of Rs. 7255 crore.

18) The Union Government is planning to gift obsolete weaponry that can be refurbished at minimal cost to friendly countries in a bid to boost defence cooperation with them. Specific military platforms being looked under this proposal are artillery guns, armoured vehicles, helicopters, naval patrol vehicles and radar systems that are obsolete or nearing obsolescence. Significance: Fulfilling the requests of these countries will open way for deeper strategic engagement with these countries. It will also pave way for long-lasting partnership through deploying training teams, offering special courses in India as well as supply of spares, repair work being carried out in India over the long term. It will also help to create base for Indian defence industry to expand export of newer defence platforms, which have been made in India to these countries. Background: In the course of India’s engagement with many foreign countries, especially during various high-level visits, number of friendly foreign countries have projected requirement for second-hand military equipment for their armed forces on a gift basis. These requests have come from some countries of Indian Ocean Region, some African countries, Central Asian Republics and the Asia-Pacific region. So far, India has only gifted used Mi25 helicopters to Afghanistan, although it has provided indigenous smaller equipment such as patrol boats to some countries in the neighbourhood. Government’s proposal is akin to Excess Defense Assets (EDA) programme of United States where it transfers excess defence equipment to chosen foreign countries at reduced price or asgrant. The reduced price is percentage of original acquisition value, based on age and condition of equipment, and ranges from 5% to 50% of the original cost. The recipient country, however, has to pay for packing, handling, crating and transportation as well as refurbishment, if applicable. The Indian proposal envisages the transfer to be a gift.

19) Chennai based Geographical Indication Registry has awarded Geographical Indication (GI) Tag to two more craft forms from Telangana viz. Adilabad dokra and Warangal Dhurries. Adilabad Dokra is an ancient bell metal craft and Warangal Dhurries is a popular traditional cotton rug. Adilabad Dokra: It is form of ancient bell metal craft practiced by Woj community native to Adilabad district of Telangana. They use ancient casting technique called cire perdue (lost wax casting technique), a technique wherein duplicate metal sculpture is cast from an original sculpture. The 100-odd families are currently, involved in creation of a hereditary crafts. The craftsmen mostly indulge in creation of metal casting products like idols of local deities, dancing figures, bells, jewellery, statues and many other decorative items. Apart from these, they also makes figures of animals and birds, and jewels. Warangal Dhurries: Dhurries is popular traditional thick cotton rug in which weavers create beautiful patterns and dye them using vegetable colours, which are washed in flowing water after the printing process. Currently, there are more than 2000 weaving community members present in Kothawada, Warangal in spinning Dhurrie. The products are exported mainly to UK, Germany along with few other European and African countries. Geographical Indication (GI): GI tag is name or sign used on certain products which correspond to specific geographical location or origin. It is used for agricultural, natural and manufactured goods having special quality and established reputation. These goods and products having tag are recognised for their origin, quality and reputation and gives it required edge in the global market. It also ensures that none can use their name, giving them exclusivity. The registration of a GI is valid for 10 years after which it needs to be renewed. Violation of GI tags is punishable offence under law. The purpose of GI tag enables stakeholders to authenticate their production while earning a premium and derive an improved livelihood. GI is covered as element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under Paris Convention for Protection of Industrial Property. At international level, GI is governed by WTO’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). In India, GI tag Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection Act), 1999 governs it. This Act is administered by Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks, who is also Registrar of Geographical Indications.

20) The National Panchayati Raj Diwas (Day) is celebrated every year in India on 24th April. . This day marks the passing of Constitution (73rd Amendment) Act, 1992 that came into force with effect from 24 April 1993. The passage of 73rd Amendment Act is hailed as defining moment in history of democratic India as it permits states to take steps to organize village panchayats and provide them with necessary powers and authority necessary to facilitate them to function as units of self-government. Background: The first National Panchayati Raj Day was celebrated in 2010. The enactment of 73rd Amendment Act had led a defining moment in the history of India which helped in decentralization of political power to the grassroots level. In turn it had led to institutionalization of Panchayati Raj (PR) through village, Intermediate and District level Panchayats. 73rd Amendment 1992: The 73rd Amendment 1992 added a new Part IX to the constitution titled “The Panchayats” covering provisions from Article 243 to 243(O); and a new Eleventh Schedule covering 29 subjects within the functions of the Panchayats. It implemented article 40 of DPSP which says that “State shall take steps to organise village panchayats and endow them with such powers and authority as may be necessary to enable them to function as units of self-government.”

21) The Justice Rajesh Bindal committee has submitted on legal issues related to inter country removal & retention of children its report to Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD). Along with its recommendation, Committee has also submitted draft legislation- International Child Abduction bill to the Government. The WCD Ministry will be sharing the report with Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Law Ministry and Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) for their comments and inputs. Recommendations of Committee: Government should establish ‘Inter Country Parental Child Removal Disputes Resolution Authority (ICPCRDRA)’ and stressed upon need for mediation as first step. The authority will be chaired by retired High Court Judge and shall have members from Legal and Social sector background along with representatives from key Ministries. It will envisaged to provide one window solution in cases of inter country removal and retention of Children. The authority will examine inter country cases of removal and retention of children vis-a-vis cultural context, merit of case, and best interest of Child. Background: There are over three crore Indians living abroad having cross-border marriages. When such diverse marriage breaks down, their children suffer as they are dragged into international legal battle between their parents over their custody. In this battle children are abducted by one parent and taken to country with different culture. Currently, there is no specific legislation in India addressing issues related to abduction of children from and into India. Law Commission of India (LCI) in its 218th Report titled Need to accede to Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction 1980 had prepared draft legislation titled “The Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction Bill, 2016 to address the issue and support India’s accession to Hague Convention on Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction 1980. Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction 1980: Hague Convention is multilateral treaty that seeks to protect children from harmful effects of abduction and retention across international boundaries by providing procedure to bring about their prompt return. 94 states are party to it. India is not signatory to it (as country has to have domestic law in place before it can become signatory). The convention is applicable to any child, up to age of 16 years who is habitual resident of any of contacting states. Mandate: Enhance international recognition of rights of custody and access arising in place of habitual residence. Ensure prompt return of child who is wrongfully removed or retained from place of habitual residence. Return children abducted or retained overseas by parent to their country of habitual residence for courts of that country to decide on matters of residence and contact.

22) Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has relaxed six-decade-old protected area permit (PAP) regime to allow foreign tourists to access border areas of Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur for five years with effect from April 1, 2018 with protected area permit (PAP). The move is being initiated to promote tourism, create job opportunities for the locals and generate revenue for the states. However, citizens from Pakistan, China and Afghanistan, will remain to be banned from all PAP areas, including Nagaland, Mizoram and Manipur. Protected areas Regime and Protected area permit (PAP): Under Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, all areas falling between Inner line and International Border of some states have been declared as protected areas. The protected areas currently include whole of Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Sikkim, besides parts of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan and Jammu and Kashmir. Some parts of Sikkim fall under protected area regime while others under restricted area regime. As per MHA’s December 2010 circular, Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland were excluded from protected area regime initially for a period of one year from January 2011, subject to some conditions. Guidelines: Under Protected areas Regime, foreign nationals are not normally allowed to visit protected or restricted area unless Government is satisfied that there are extra-ordinary reasons to justify their visit. Every foreigner, except citizen of Bhutan, who desires to enter and stay in protected or restricted area, is required to obtain special permit (PAP) from competent authority having power to issue such permits to foreigner, seeking it. Citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals of Pakistani origin are exception and are not allowed to enter such areas. Permit issuing Authority: Necessary powers have been delegated to various authorities to issue such special permits without prior approval of MHA to facilitate foreign tourists subject to certain exceptions In cases of foreign diplomats, including members of United Nations (UN) and international organisations holding diplomatic or official passports, special permits to visit such protected or restricted areas are issued by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). In cases of citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals of Pakistani origin, no permit can be issued without prior approval of MHA.

23) According to recently released Migration and Development Brief by World Bank, India has retained top position as recipient of remittances with about $69 billion in 2017. India was followed by China ($64 billion), Philippines ($33 billion), Mexico ($31 billion), Nigeria ($22 billion) and Egypt ($20 billion). Key Highlights of Migration and Development Brief: Global remittances: It grew 7% to US $613 billion in 2017, from US $573 billion in 2016. Global remittances are expected to grow 4.6% to $642 billion in 2018. It include flows to high-income countries. The stronger-than-expected recovery in remittances was driven by growth in Europe, Russia and US. The rebound in global remittances was due to higher oil prices and strengthening of Euro and Ruble. The upsurge is likely to continue into 2018 on back of stronger economic conditions in advanced economies (particularly US) and increase in oil prices that may have positive impact on GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) countries. Low-and middle-income countries: Remittances received by these countries in 2017 has reached US $466 billion in 2017. This was an increase of 8.5% over US $429 billion in 2016. India received $69 billion remittances in 2017 as against $62.7 billion in 2016. It had picked up sharply by 9.9%, reversing previous year’s dip (8.9% in 2016), but was still short of $70.4 billion received in 2014. Remittances to South Asia: It grew a moderate 5.8% to US $117 billion in 2017 and it will likely grow modestly by 2.5% to $120 billion in 2018. Flows to Pakistan (received US $20 billion) and Bangladesh (US $13 billion) were both largely flat in 2017, while Sri Lanka saw small decline (-0.9%). Global average cost: The of sending $200 was 7.1% in Q1 of 2018, more than twice as high as Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of 3%. Sub-Saharan Africa remained most expensive place to send money to, where the average cost is 9.4%. Transit migration: The transit migrants-who only stay temporarily in transit country, are usually not able to send money home. Migration may help migrants to escape poverty or persecution, but many also become vulnerable to exploitation by human smugglers during transit. Host communities in transit countries may find their own poor population competing with new-comers for low-skill jobs.

24) Jailed Egyptian photojournalist Mahmoud Abu Zeid, popularly known as Shawkan, will be awarded United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization’s (UNESCO) World Press Freedom Prize for year 2018. He was arrested in August 2013 for covering deadly demonstration at Rabaa Al-Adawiya Square in Cairo (Egypt’s capital) between security forces and supporters of ousted Islamist president Mohammed Morsi. He is one of 700 defendants facing charges of killing police and vandalising property during the clashes. UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize: The award was established in 1997 by United Nations’ cultural body UNESCO’s in honour of Colombian journalist Guillermo Cano Isaza. It honours person, organization or institution for their outstanding contribution to the defence and promotion of freedom of press anywhere in the world, especially achieved in face of danger. The award carries cash prize of $45000 and is funded by Colombia based Cano Foundation and Finland based Helsingin Sanomat Foundation. Guillermo Cano Isaza was a Colombian journalist who was assassinated on 17 December 1986 in front of the offices of his newspaper, El Espectador in Bogota.

25) Diu Smart City has become first city in India to run on 100% renewable energy during daytime. With this, it has set new benchmark for other cities to become clean and green. Diu was importing 73% of its power from Gujarat until last year. But now it has adopted two-pronged approach to reduce dependence on Gujarat for power requirements through renewable energy. Key Facts: The two approaches include 9 MW solar park spread over 50 hectares rocky barren land and installing of solar panels on roof tops on 79 government buildings thereby generating 1.3 MW annually. To further enhance its solar capacity, Diu has been offering its residents subsidy of Rs 10, 000 to Rs. 50,000 for installing 1-5KW roof top solar panels. With these renewable energy initiatives, the UT has been saving about 13,000 tonnes of carbon emissions every year. Moreover, due to low-cost solar energy, power tariffs have been cut by 10% in 2017 and 15% in 2018 in residential category.

26) Bengaluru Smart City is testing prototype of an intelligent traffic management solution in collaboration with the Electronics City Township Authority (ELCITA) to improve traffic management in the city. It aims to provide traffic information that is currently unavailable and help improve management of commuter traffic. Intelligent Traffic Management Solution: It involves capturing video streams from several cameras and processing them using artificial intelligence. This will help in automation of traffic management tasks such as vehicle detection, traffic density estimation and control of traffic lights for real-time performance. Electronic City: Electronic City isinformation technology (IT) hub in Bangalore, located in Anekal taluk. It is one of India’s largest electronic and IT industrial parks, spread over 800 acres (3.2 km²). It consists of three zones called phases – Phase I, Phase II and Phase III. Electronic City was established by Keonics (Karnataka Electronic), a pioneer in information technology infrastructure development. There are approximately 200 IT/ITES companies located in Electronic City. It is administered by Electronics City Township Authority (ELCITA).

27) Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), the country’s largest IT outsourcing company created history by becoming the first Indian company to reach $100 billion market capitalisation (m-cap) milestone. Market capitalisation is value of company that is traded on stock market, calculated by multiplying total number of shares by present share price. The Indian IT giant hit $100 billion in market capitalisation after it crossed Rs 3,447 per share, assuming the current value of the rupee at 66.2150 against the US dollar. Key Facts: With this, TCS joined the ranks of the world’s 100 most valued organizations and now ranks 97th. TCS has also overtaken outsourcing and consultancy giant Accenture which has market cap of $98.20 billion. TCS holds first position among most valuable international pure play technology services firms. INTL Business Machines Corp. (IBM) has market cap of $133.48 billion, but it has both hardware and technology services operations. Currently there are 96 companies which have market cap of over $100 billion. In 2007, Mukesh Ambani led Reliance Industries Ltd., the telecoms-to-energy conglomerate was the first Indian company to cross the $100 billion mark. Currently, its market cap is at $89.36 billion.

28) The Madras High Court became first court in south India and overall eighth in the country to introduce e-court fee payment facility. It was jointly launched by Chief Minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami and Chief Justice Indira Banerjee at the principal seat of the High Court in Chennai as well as at its Madurai Bench. e-court fee payment facility: The new system will enable litigants who file cases in High Court to pay judicial stamp duty to government through e-stamps, which can be purchased both online and offline. It will pave way for easier and secured way of paying stamp duty. It will also help to tackle sale of counterfeit judicial stamps. The e-stamps can be purchased online through website of Stock Holding Corporation after simple registration process. Payments for it can be made through net banking or debit cards and so on. The e-court fee receipts can be attached along with case bundles while presenting them in High Court Registry at time of filing cases. The advantage of the system is that the court fee can be paid as and when user desires without bothering about non-availability of physical stamps. It will save time of litigants from standing in long queues at the physical counter.

29) Every year Earth Day is being observed on 22nd April to build support for environmental protection around world. It aims to encourage people to carry out activities that will benefit Earth, such as recycling more, using solar power or plant trees. It also aims to raise awareness that humans have a collective responsibility to promote harmony with nature and to balance the economic, social and environmental needs of present and future generations. The theme for 2018 Earth Day is ‘End Plastic Pollution’. It is dedicated to providing information and inspiration needed to fundamentally change human attitude and behavior about plastics. Four major components of this year’s Plastic Pollution campaign: Lead grassroots movement to support adoption of global framework to regulate plastic pollution. Educate, mobilise and activate citizens across globe to demand that governments and corporations control and clean up plastic pollution. Educate people worldwide to take personal responsibility for plastic pollution by choosing to reject, reduce, reuse and recycle plastics. Promote local government regulatory and other efforts to tackle plastic pollution. Earth Day: The concept of observing Earth Day was formally proposed by John McConnell at UNESCO conference on Environment in 1969. Later in 1971, a proclamation was signed to observe international Earth Day annually on the Vernal Equinox by UN Secretary-General U Thant. It was first celebrated in 1970, and since then it is celebrated every year in more than 193 countries. Earth Day celebrations are coordinated globally by the Earth Day Network. Earth Day celebrations are way to remind humans of environmental deterioration caused by them and advise them to turn off the electronic devices that are not in use or taking public transport to reduce the emission levels. It recognises that Earth and its ecosystems provide its inhabitants with life and sustenance.

30) Scientists from CSIR-Institute of Minerals and Materials Technology (CSIR-IMMT) have found four bacterial strains that remove sulphur from fossil fuels such as petroleum and coal. Sulphur is one of the major pollutants emitted during the combustion of fossil fuels. Key Facts: The four bacterial strains are Rhodococcus rhodochrous, Arthrobacter sulfureou, Gordonia rubropertinita and Rhodococcus erythropolis. They use dibenzothiophene, an organic sulphur compound which is major contaminant of fossil fuel as energy source thereby getting rid of sulphur. They were selected from 10 bacterial strains with dsz genes to find novel bacterial strains that can selectively eliminate this organic sulphur. The dsz genes are central to sustainable bio-desulfurization (a non-invasive process of sulfur removal from fuels by means of living organisms). The selected bacteria were grown in medium supplemented with dibenzothiophene and other nutrients required for growth. It was found that four bacteria were able to use almost 99% of sulphur compound in just 10 days. Researchers were also able to identify process of bio-desulfurization of these bacterial strains through specific pathway (4-S pathway). The process of bio-desulfurization using these four bacterial strains is also eco-friendly and economical. These bacterial strains can be potentially used on commercial scale for removal of sulphur from fossil fuels on commercial scale.

31) West Bengal government has given its approval to State Forest Department to apply for coveted Ramsar Site recognition under Ramsar Convention to Sunderban Reserve Forest. Now, State Forest Department through Central Government will apply to Ramsar Convention Secretariat. Key Facts: Once it is conferred Ramsar site status, Sundarbans Reserve Forest will be largest protected wetland in the country. There are currently 26 sites in India recognised as Ramsar wetland sites of international importance, including East Kolkata Wetlands in West Bengal. Sunderban Reserve Forest is spread across 4,260 sq. km. with over 2,000 sq. km. of mangrove forests and creeks making it ideal site of wetland. The status wetland of international importance under Ramsar Convention will help in conservation of Sunderban (already World Heritage Site) which is facing threat from climate change and rising sea level. About Sundarbans: Sundarbans is vast contiguous mangrove forest ecosystem in the coastal region of Bay of Bengal spread across India and Bangladesh. It covers approximately 10,000 square kilometres of area of which 60% is in Bangladesh and remaining in India. It is located in delta region of Padma, Meghna and Brahmaputra river basins. It is the largest tidal halophytic mangrove forest in the world. It was recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987. Sundarban forests are known for its self- Royal Bengal Tiger and other numerous species of animals, including Chital Deer, Crocodile and Snakes. It is facing threat from climate change and rise in sea level. It also faces threat from widespread construction and clearing of mangrove forests for fisheries.

32) Researchers from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Roorkee have identified two small potent molecules Pep-I and Pep-II, for their inhibitory activity to treat Chikungunya disease. The antiviral activity of these molecules was so high that their small amount was able to achieve almost 99% reduction in virus. Currently, there are no drugs to treat chikungunya or any vaccine to prevent it. Key Facts: The antiviral activity was tested by adding molecules directly into virus culture. Using structure-based studies of chikungunya virus-specific nsP2 protease, researchers had identified two small molecules Pep-I and Pep-II for their inhibitory activity against vector borne disease. Protease inhibitors have already been used successfully against HIV and hepatitis C virus. Pep-I, one of two molecules has superior antiviral activity against chikungunya virus. It was found to effectively bind to protein of virus (nsP2 protease) and prevent virus from replicating. It is hypothesised that any molecule that inhibits nsP2 protease is having antiviral activity. During studies it was confirmed that both molecules have significant ability to kill virus. Pep-I molecule was very efficient in killing the virus, 99% reduction in virus at 5 microMolar and Pep-II molecule showed reduced antiviral activity of only 50% even at a higher concentration of about 200 microMolar. The two molecules also reduced viral RNA thus confirming the antiviral activity. Chikungunya: Chikungunya is a mosquito-borne virus that causes a disease. It is transmitted by Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. Its symptoms are characterised by abrupt fever and severe joint pain, often in hands and feet, and may include headache, muscle pain, joint swelling or rash. There is no specific antiviral drug treatment for chikungunya. There is no commercial vaccine to treat chikungunya. Chikungunya treatment is directed primarily at relieving the symptoms, including the joint pain using anti-pyretics, optimal analgesics and fluids.

33) The Union Cabinet has approved promulgation of Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance to provide death penalty for rapists of girls below 12 years. The ordinance amends Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code, Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act and Indian Evidence Act. Key Provisions of Ordinance: It provides for stringent punishment of jail term of minimum 20 years or life imprisonment or death for rape of girl less than 12 years. It provides punishment with imprisonment for rest of life or death sentence in case of gang rape of girl below 12 years. It increases minimum punishment from 10 years to 20 years for crime of rape of girl under 16 years, which can be extended to imprisonment for rest of life. It increases minimum punishment for rape of women from rigorous imprisonment of 7 years to 10 years, which can be extended to life imprisonment. It provides for speedy investigation and trial, which must be completed in two months. It proposes 6 months’ time limit for disposal of appeals in rape cases. It provides dedicated manpower for investigation of rape cases in time bound manner. It provides no provision for anticipatory bail for person accused of rape or gang rape of girl under 16 years. It has also been provided that court has to give notice of 15 days to Public Prosecutor and representative of victim before deciding bail applications in case of rape of a girl under 16 years of age. It has provision for maintaining national database and profile of sexual offenders by National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB). This data will be regularly shared with States/UTs for monitoring, tracking and investigation including verification of antecedents by police.

34) The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved restructured Centrally Sponsored Scheme of Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan (RGSA). The restructured scheme will focus on training, building infrastructure, stepping up initiatives for e-governance under e-Panchayat Mission Mode Project (MMP) to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It will be implemented during period from April 2018 to March 2022 with total proposed cost of the scheme is Rs. 7255 crore. Key Facts: The scheme will extend to all states/UTs of country and will also include institutions of rural local government in non-Part IX areas, where Panchayats do not exist. The fund sharing ratio for scheme for state components will be 60:40 barring Northeast and hilly states where it will be 90:10. For UTs, central share will be 100%. The scheme will have both central component- National Level activities including National Plan of Technical Assistance, Mission Mode project on e-Panchayat, Incentivization of Panchayats and state component Capacity Building of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs), The implementation and monitoring of activities of scheme will broadly be aligned for achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) with main thrust on Panchayats identified under Mission Antyodaya and 115 aspirational districts as identified by NITI Aayog. It will converge capacity building initiatives of other ministries. Significance: The restructured scheme will help more than 2.55 lakh Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) to develop governance capabilities to deliver on SDGs through inclusive local governance with focus on optimum utilisation of available resources. It will strive to achieve key principles of SDGs, i.e. leaving no one behind, reaching farthest first and universal coverage, along with gender equality. It will give priority to subjects of national importance that affects the excluded groups the most, e.g. poverty, nutrition, education, primary health services, immunization, sanitation, water conservation, digital transactions etc. It is designed keeping in view programmatic convergence with Mission Antyodaya Gram Panchayats (GPs) and 115 Aspirational districts as identified by NITI Aayog. Strengthening of panchayats under it will help to promote equity and inclusiveness, along with Social Justice and economic development of the community. Increased use of e-governance by PRIs will help achieve improved service delivery and transparency. It will strengthen Gram Sabhas to function as effective institutions with social inclusion of citizens particularly vulnerable groups. The scheme will help to establish institutional structure for capacity building of PRIs at national, state and district level with adequate human resources and infrastructure. It will progressively strengthened PRIs through incentivisation on basis of nationally important criteria which will encourage competitive spirit among them.

35) The Commonwealth countries at the end of Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) in London have adopted Commonwealth Cyber Declaration to take action on cybersecurity by 2020. The declaration is considered as world’s largest and most geographically diverse inter-governmental commitment on cybersecurity cooperation. Key Facts: Under this declaration leaders of 53 commonwealth countries agreed to work closely to evaluate and strengthen their cybersecurity frameworks and response mechanisms. It also aims to tackle criminal groups and hostile state actors who pose a global threat to cybersecurity. The declaration sets out common vision for ensuring internet remains free and open across Commonwealth. It commits members to raise national levels of cyber security and increased cooperation to counter those who seek to undermine our values, security, even integrity of elections. The funding under it will support Commonwealth partners to prevent and respond to cyber security risks affecting governments, businesses and citizens. It will enable low and middle income Commonwealth members to carry out national cyber security capacity reviews before next CHOGM in 2020. It will underpin projects across Commonwealth to provide technical assistance, training and advice to address wide range of cyber security and cybercrime threats.

36) 12th edition of National Civil Services Day was observed on April 21, 2018 across India. This year observance of the day focussed on ‘Evolving Strategies for Transforming Aspirational Districts’. On this day, function is organised by the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances (DARPG), Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions. Civil servants from various corners of country come together and meet each other and learn from each other’s experiences of working in the public domain. On this day, the Prime Minister Award for Excellence in Public Administration is bestowed upon best civil servants. Civil Services Day: The National Civil Services Day is celebrated every year on April 21, when civil servants rededicate themselves to cause of the citizens and renew their commitment to public service. This day coincides with the date on which Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel had addressed the first batch of probationers at All India Administrative Service Training School at Metcalfe House, New Delhi in 1947. In this famous speech, Sardar Patel had referred to bureaucrats as “steel frame of India”. On this day, the ‘Prime Minister Award for Excellence in Public Administration’ is presented in three categories. These awards were instituted in 2006. The awards have been instituted with view to acknowledge, recognise and reward the extraordinary and innovative work done by officers of Central and State Governments towards welfare of common citizen.

37) The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has decided to roll out ‘Integrated initiative for prevention & control of viral hepatitis’ under National Health Mission (NHM) for prevention and control of viral hepatitis. The initiative will have budgetary support of more than Rs. 517 crore for three years. India is committed to eliminating the viral hepatitis by 2030. Key Facts: Under this initiative, the ministry will scale up to 100 treatment and 665 testing centres over period of next three years in all states. It will address components such as surveillance, awareness generation, immunisation, safe blood, injection safety infection control, diagnosis of viral hepatitis, capacity building, research and monitoring. It is also proposed to establish 15 model treatment centres, which will function as referral centres for diagnosis and treatment of hepatitis C and assist in capacity building. Viral hepatitis: Hepatitis means inflammation of the liver. Liver is vital organ that processes nutrients, filters blood, and fights infections. When the liver is inflamed due to viral hepatitis or damaged, its functions are affected. Hepatitis is most often caused by a virus and most common types of viral hepatitis are Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. Viral hepatitis is recognised as public health problem worldwide. India is committed to ending it by 2030. Heavy alcohol use, toxins, some medications, and certain medical conditions also can cause hepatitis. It can also spread through use of injectable drugs, unsafe health care, unsafe injection practises and transfusion of unscreened blood and blood products. Symptoms of hepatitis can include fever, fatigue, vomiting, loss of appetite, nausea, abdominal pain, dark urine, grey-colored stools, joint pain, and jaundice. Treatment of Hepatitis depends on the diagnosis.

38) The Union Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs inaugurated new office of Central Project Monitoring Unit for e-Vidhan project of Government at Parliament House Annexe. It was launched by Union Minister of State (MoS) for Parliamentary Affairs, Statistics and Programme Implementation Vijay Goel. e-Vidhan: e-Vidhan is mission mode project to digitize and make functioning of State Legislatures in India to make them paperless. It is a part of broader Digital India Programme of Central Government. It is likely to contribute to cleanliness and environment by reducing the use of papers to a great extent. It will also make functioning of State Legislatures participative, responsive, transparent, productive and more accountable and efficient to public. The Ministry of Parliamentary Affairs is nodal ministry for the project. It is taking all necessary steps for rolling out project in all states. One of key component of devised for implementation of project is to create Project Monitoring Units both at Central as well as State levels.

39) India and Finland have reached an agreement on the tax dispute with Nokia under Mutual Agreement Procedure (MAP) system. The resolution covers disputes pertaining to Nokia India as well as Nokia Corp. This involves payment of Rs 1,600 crore, a sum that was deposited with government by Nokia in March 2018. This paves way for the sale of Nokia’s Chennai (Sriperumbudu) plant, which has been shuttered since November 2014. Software giant Microsoft had kept Sriperumbudur factory out of the deal when it acquired Nokia’s mobile device business in 2014 due to Income Tax notice and asset freeze imposed on the factory. Background: Nokia India was issued tax demand notice for Rs. 2,500 crore in 2013 by Income Tax Department, which was thereafter reduced to Rs. 1,600 crore over royalty payments made to its parent company in Finland since 2006. The IT Department also raised tax demand of Rs.10,000 crore tax on Nokia Corporation for same transaction, but was dropped under MAP agreement. The tax claim was related to Nokia’s import of software from its head office in Finland. Nokia India had showed payments made for software as ‘purchase transactions’ and not ‘royalty payments’ and held that payment was made without keeping back any withholding tax. The India-Finland Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) has set 10% rate for royalties, which was IT Department was demanding. In tandem, at Nokia India’s request, Finland had initiated MAP process under DTAA in 2013. Nokia India also had sought to initiate arbitration under Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPPA) in 2014, but did not pursue it after Indian Government’s response through MAP avenue for solving cross-border tax dispute instead of arbitration. Mutual Agreement Procedure (MAP) system: MAP is alternative dispute settlement mechanism that allows multinational companies (MNCs) to settle transfer pricing disputes with tax authorities and eliminate double taxation. The need for such arrangements was surfaced after many MNCs with operations in India had transfer pricing disputes with local tax authorities. MAP helps to increase comfort level of foreign investors over India’s tax laws. Moreover, speedy resolution of tax cases help in providing conducive atmosphere for investments and business to foreign companies in India. Under MAP, settling case with other government means closing all pending proceedings related to tax matter. It is increasingly seen as preferred mode for settling cross-border tax disputes.

40) India has pressed the BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) nations to set up an independent credit rating agency of the five-member group. It was on sidelines of the first meeting of BRICS Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors held along with IMF/World Bank Spring Meetings in Washington, US. Key Facts: India sought the support of BRICS members in building consensus amongst BRICS membership on the BRICS Rating Agency proposal. It also requested to take forward report to be submitted by expert group set up under the aegis of BRICS Business Council to study the feasibility of the BRICS Rating Agency. India had first mooted the idea of having such an agency for the BRICS grouping to solve impediments for the emerging market economies posed by present credit rating agency market that is dominated by S&P, Moody’s and Fitch. These three western rating agencies hold over 90% of the sovereign ratings market. Emerging economies claim that western ratings firms are biased, pessimistic on the developing countries and optimistic on developed nations. They also have concerns over methodologies of the three global agencies. Other issues discussed during meeting: It discussed enhancing project pipelines of New Development Bank (NDB) evenly across member countries, expansion of NDB’s membership. It also deliberated on proposal of South African Presidency for setting up working group on illicit financial flows and BRICS Task Force on Public Private Partnership. Issues related to BRICS Contingent Reserve Arrangement (CRA) as well as BRICS Bond Fund were also discussed.

41) Hydro power major Sutlej Jal Vidut Nigam (SJVN) Limited has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Ministry of Power for generating 9200 million units for the year 2018-19. The MoU was signed in New Delhi by Power Secretary Ajay Kumar Bhalla and SJVN Chairman & Managing Director (CMD) Nand Lal Sharma. Key Facts: As per set targets in the MoU, SJVN will achieve 9200 Million Units generation during FY 2018-19 under ‘Excellent’ category. Further, SJVN will have Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) target of Rs. 900 crore and Turnover target of Rs. 2175 crore along with other targets related to operational efficiency and project monitoring. Sutlej Jal Vidut Nigam (SJVN): SJVN Limited is a Mini Ratna and Schedule ‘A’ Central Public Sector Undertaking (CPSU) under Ministry of Power. It is joint venture between Central Government (64.46% share) and Government of Himachal Pradesh (25.51% share). It was incorporated in 1988. It is headquartered in Shimla, Himachal Pradesh. The present installed capacity of SJVN is 1,964 MW (comprising of 1912 MW Hydro, 47.6 MW Wind Power, 5 MW Solar Power). SJVN is successfully operating country’s largest 1500 MW Nathpa Jhakri Hydropower Station. In FY 2017-18, SJVN had generated 9280 Million Units from its projects under operation with installed capacity of 1964 MW against target of 8950 Million Units (under Excellent category). Currently, SJVN has four projects with capacity of 1610 MW under construction.

42) The first International SME (Small, Medium Enterprises) convention will be held in New Delhi from 22ndto 24th April, 2018. It has been organised by Ministry of Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises. It aims to provide platform to allow Entrepreneur to Entrepreneur (E2E) exchange of ideas, free and fair business discussions, mutual sizing of opportunities and ways to address them. Key Facts: The four day International SME convention will see participation of 150 participants from 31 countries and 400 entrepreneurs from India. It has specific focus on inclusion of MSMEs in Make in India program and empowering women entrepreneurs. The Ministry of MSME has engaged with over 35 International Trade Development organisations to attract and invite able and willing entrepreneurs and encourage people to people (P2P) contact with select Indian Entrepreneurs from key sectors of the International counterparts. Background: India is home to more than 60 million MSMEs, majority of which are in low-tech areas and serve local domestic markets. The MSMEs sector constitute single largest employer after Agriculture sector in India. Highly developed economies have banked on their SMEs for both GDP Growth as well as higher employment resulting in higher per capita incomes. In India, small percentage of SMEs have ability to derive access to International Markets, with vast majority of enterprises working as ancillaries.

43) The Group of Ministers (GoM) constituted by Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has proposed One Nation One Tax policy for seamless movement of commercial vehicles across the country. The two day meeting of GoM held in Guwahati, Assam was attended by transport ministers from Uttar Pradesh, Assam, Himachal Pradesh, Bihar, Goa, Kerala, Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya and Jharkhand. The GoM is headed by Rajasthan transport minister Yoonus Khan. Recommendations of GoM: Uniform road tax for vehicles across states: It will allow transfer of vehicles from one state to another without levying road tax. It will put check on people registering their vehicles in low tax states and running them in other states. It will also bring necessary relief to genuine cases requiring transfer of vehicles. Tax Structure: Centre has the powers to decide principles on which motor vehicles tax can be levied. The uniform tax should be based on invoice price of vehicles in three slabs. 8% tax on vehicles below 10 lakhs, 10% for vehicles costing between 10 -20 lakh, and 12% for vehicles above 20 lakh. Diesel vehicles may have to pay 2% extra taxes, while electric vehicles will be given 2% discount. National passenger vehicles permit for passenger cars: There should be national bus and taxi permit on lines of such permit for goods transport. It will give the much needed fillip to public transport and help reduce road congestion and its attendant problems.

44) The Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2018 (CHOGM 2018) was held in London, United Kingdom. It was overall 25th meeting of the heads of government of the Commonwealth of Nations. It was also first CHOGM held following United Kingdom’s decision to withdraw from European Union. This decision has resulted for Britain to strengthen its economic ties with and play greater role in Commonwealth. India was represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Key Facts: The theme CHOGM 2018 was “Towards a Common Future“. The British hosts had set out four main goals for summit viz prosperity: boosting intra-Commonwealth trade and investment; security: increasing cooperation across security challenges including global terrorism, organised crime and cyberattacks; fairness: promoting democracy, fundamental freedoms and good governance across Commonwealth and sustainability: building resilience of small and vulnerable states to deal with effects of climate change and other global crises. During CHOGM 2018, Commonwealth Blue Charter on ocean governance Commonwealth connectivity agenda for trade and investment, declaration on cybercrime and revised Commonwealth guidelines on election observation in member countries were taken into consideration. Commonwealth of Nations: It is an international intergovernmental organisation of countries that were mostly former territories of the British Empire and dependencies. It was established by the London Declaration in 1949. Many countries from Africa, Asia, Americas, Europe and the Pacific have joined the Commonwealth. Current membership includes 54 counties (including India). Membership is based on free and equal voluntary co-operation. Queen Elizabeth II is Head of Commonwealth. She is also monarch of 16 members of Commonwealth, known as Commonwealth realms.