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1) Vice President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu commenced his four-day official visit to Vietnam on 9 May 2019. His visit comes after a series of high-level exchanges between India-Vietnam in 2018 which include visit of Vietnamese Prime Minister in January and President in March to India. Key Highlights of Visit: The Vice President will participate in 16th United Nations Day of Vesak (UNDV) at Tam Chuc pagoda in northern Ha Nam province of Vietnam. He will also deliver keynote address at inaugural session of event, themed for which is “Buddhist Approach to Global Leadership and Shared Responsibilities for Sustainable Societies”. This visit is expected to enhance India’s Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Southeast Asian nation, Vietnam. He will visit Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, to pay homage to Former Prime Minister (and also President) of Vietnam. He will meet Indian community and Vietnamese beneficiaries of ‘Jaipur Foot Artificial Limb Fitment Camp’ organized in 2018 by India under ‘India for Humanity’ initiative. It was launched to commemorate 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. He will pay tributes to martyrs at National Monument of Heroes and Martyrs (Vietnam’s War Memorial). He will also meet Nguyen Kim Thi Ngan, Chairperson of National Assembly of Vietnam (Vietnam’s Legislative Assembly). He will interact with Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, Vice President of Vietnam and hold delegation level talks. High level talks will discuss issues including: trade and investment relations between two nation, exploring opportunities in oil and gas sectors, giving better market access to India’s exports, mutual cooperation in defence and space technologies, training and capacity building of Vietnamese defence forces, seeking support for Indian Pharmaceutical facilities in Vietnam and strengthening of cultural bonds between two nations. About 16th United Nations Day of Vesak: Vesak (also known as Buddha Jayanti or Buddha Purnima) is celebrated to commemorate birth of Lord Buddha, his attainment of enlightenment (nirvana) and his passing away. It’s date changes every year based on lunar calendar. It is considered sacred to Buddhists. Indian Vice President’s participation at event is expected to strengthen ties between India and Buddhist communities worldwide. It is expected to be attended by more than 10,000 Buddhist followers, 1,500 religious dignitaries, scientists and researchers from all over the world.

2) Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), under Ministry of Finance is organising a meeting of Regional Heads of Customs Administration of Asia Pacific Region of World Customs Organisation (WCO) in Kochi (in Kerela) from 8th to 10th May, 2019. As India currently holds seat of Vice Chairperson of Asia Pacific region (assumed on 1 July 2018) for a two-year period, it is hosting this meeting in this capacity. Key Highlights of Meeting: It will discuss about progress being made in carrying forward various initiatives and programmes of WCO, in promoting, securing and facilitating cross-border trade in Asia Pacific region. It will also look into capacity building and technical assistance required to achieve this goal. Pranab Kumar Das, Chairman of CBIC will chair the meeting. Participants: includes customs delegations from over 20 countries of Asia Pacific region and senior officials of WCO and its regional bodies namey Regional Intelligence Liaoning Office (RILO) and Regional Office for Capacity Building (ROCB). Key Focus Areas: of meeting includes, implementation of trade facilitation measures, building capacity of small island economies (in Asia pacific region), cross-border e-commerce transactions, performance measurement, trusted trader programmes, and on-going review of Revised Kyoto Convention (RKC). About WCO: It was established in 1952 as Customs Co-operation Council (CCC) and in 1994 it adopted its current name World Customs Organisation (WCO). It is headquartered in Brussels (in Belgium). It is an independent intergovernmental body, which seeks to enhance effectiveness and efficiency of Customs administrations. It is only intergovernmental organisation which exclusively focuses on Customs matters. One of its crucial role is to streamline cross border procedures and enhance security of global trade. The governing body of WCO is ‘WCO Council’, which brings together all Members of Organization one time every year. Functions: to maintain international Harmonized System (HS, also known as Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System) of tariff nomenclature, and to administer technical aspects of World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreements on Customs Valuation and Rules of Origin. Members: It represents 182 Customs administrations globally (which collectively undergoes about 98% of world trade). Its membership is divided into 6 regions. Each of these six Regions is represented by regionally elected Vice-Chairperson to WCO’s Council. India holds Vice Chair of Asia Pacific region of WCO for a two-year period.

3) Dr.NR Madhava Menon an educationist, scholar and pioneer of Indian legal education, dies in Thiruvananthapuram at 84 years of age. About NR Madhava Menon: He is considered as ‘Father of Modern Legal Education’, for changing the face of Indian legal education. Contributions: He is pioneer in establishment of National Law Schools in India. He also conceptualized of five year integrated LLB (or Bachelor of Legislative Law) course, in place of earlier 3-year course. He was founder director of National Law School of India University (NLSIU), founded in 1987 in Bangalore. He also headed it for 12 years. In 1998 he established West Bengal National University of Juridical Sciences (NUJS). Later, he presided as founder director of National Judicial Academy (NJA), Bhopal, till his retirement in 2006. Achievements: In 1994, he was conferred ‘Living Legend of Law Award’ by International Bar Association. He was honoured by Padma Shri (India’s fourth highest civilian award), in 2003 for his outstanding contribution to public services. He also received ‘Rotary Club Award’ for Vocational Excellence and the Plaque of Honour from Bar Council of India. Besides publishing several articles and monographs on a variety of legal subjects, he has also authored many books on Indian legal education, legal profession and judicial training. The journey of his life is published in autobiographical narrative ‘The Story of a Law Teacher: Turning Point’, besides publishing several books, articles and monographs on a variety of legal subjects.

4) India’s Jagjit Pavadia was re-elected to International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) for another five-year term beginning 2nd March, 2020. This victory has added to India’s successful record of winning crucial elections at United Nation (UN) and to UN’s subsidiary bodies. About Jagjit Pavadia: She has been member of INCB since 2015 and her current term will expire in 2020. She has held many senior positions in Indian Revenue Service (IRS) for 35 years in Government of India (GoI), which includes Narcotics Commissioner of India, Central Bureau of Narcotics (regulated by India’s Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs, Ministry of Finance). About INCB: It is an independent and quasi-judicial monitoring body. Function: It implements UN’s international drug control conventions. It was established in 1968 in accordance with Single Convention on Narcotic Drugs of 1961 by merging ‘Permanent Central Narcotics Board’ (created in 1925 by International Opium Convention) and ‘Drug Supervisory Body’ (created in 1931 by Convention for Limiting the Manufacture and Regulating Distribution of Narcotic Drugs). Members: It has 13 members (they may be re-elected). Each member is elected by Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) for a period of five years. The 10 members out of 13 are elected from list of persons nominated by Governments and remaining 3 are elected from persons nominated by World Health Organization (WHO) for their medical, pharmacological or pharmaceutical experience. Secretariat: is located at Vienna, Austria. It is an administrative entity of UN Office on Drugs and Crime. It assists INCB in exercise of its treaty-related functions but reports only to Board on matters of substance.

5) Iran announced it will pull out of some commitments under 2015 international nuclear agreement signed with world powers, called Joint Comprehensive Plan Of Action (JCPOA). About Iran’s Partial Withdrawal: In a move of partial withdrawal from JCPOA Iran will pull out of some commitments such as- It will stop suppressing its stocks of enriched uranium and heavy water, as these are needed by certain types of reactor for nuclear fission to take place. Reason: As per Iran, such action is required as European Union (EU) and other countries did not have power to resist US pressure. Also, such measures are necessary to secure Iran’s rights and bring back balance after United States exited from agreement in 2018. Iran’s Supreme National Security Council gave 60 days to remaining countries of deal, to implement their commitments, mainly in fields of banking and oil. It referred to commitments made by Russia, China, France, Germany and Britain, to lift sanctions on Iran in return if it curbs its nuclear activities. The decision comes after US dispatched an aircraft carrier strike group to Middle East. As per Iran this path is not that of war, but is of diplomacy with a new language and a new logic. Recent Developments: China resolutely opposes unilateral US sanctions against Iran and called on all parties to uphold Iranian nuclear pact. Russia has also denounced US pressure and stands by Iran nuclear deal. Britain in contradiction has not welcomed Iran’s decision, as it could lead to new Western sanctions. US Stand on Issue: In May 2018, US President Donald Trump announced that US will unilaterally pull out of from JCPOA, re-imposing US sanctions on Iran. His administration found the deal to be “defective to the core”. US also announced to cancel waivers to countries (including India) who continue to purchase oil from Iran. Reasons given for Withdrawal: JCPOA does not have binding restrictions on Iran’s ballistic missile programme and it does nothing to prevent Iran from sponsoring terrorism in its region. Most restrictions have a sunset-clause, which means that over the years JCPOA’s provisions will become less strict and this will enable Iran to move towards nuclear-weapon capability. About JCPOA: It is an international nuclear agreement signed in 2015, between Iran and the P5+1. The P5+1 includes five permanent UNSC’s members (P5): China, Russia, France, United Kingdom (UK), and United States; and (+1) Germany. Under it, Iran agreed to make certain changes to its nuclear programme which included stopping export of enriched uranium stock, in return for United Nations (UN), European Union (EU) and the US revoking their sanctions against it. These Nuclear related sanctions on Iran were lifted by US from 1 January 2016.

6) The World Red Cross Day, also known as World Red Cross or Red Crescent Day, is annually observed on May 8. It is celebrated to commemorate birth anniversary of Henri Dunant (born on 8 May 1828), the founder of Red Cross and International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC). World Red Cross Day: After second world-war proposal of an annual International Red Cross Day was adopted on May 08, 1948 and it was officially declared as World Red Cross (or Red Crescent Day). Therefore, first Red Cross Day was celebrated in 1948. It is celebrated annually to reduce suffering of people and enabling them to lead a dignified life. It is celebrated by Red Cross Organisation’s present all over world by helping people with independence, humanity, impartiality, universality, unity and neutrality (these are also fundamental principles of organization). World Red Cross Day, 2019:nTheme for 2019 was “#Love”. Through the theme Red Cross celebrated strength and reach of its global network, and contribution of its staff and 11.7 million active volunteers. It aims to broaden public’s understanding of society by highlighting universality and diversity of its work and approach. It is a gentle gesture to all its volunteers who have made unparalleled contribution to people in distress or need. About The Red Cross: It is one of world’s largest humanitarian organization. At present there are 189 National Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies globally. It has more than 97 million staff and volunteers. It is an active participant in various programs and services, including emergency response, community-based health and care, disaster preparedness, first aid training, restoring family contact for disaster victims, and youth and volunteer activities. So far, it has won three Nobel Peace Prize in year 1917, 1944, and 1963. Jean Henri Dunant: He was a Swiss businessman whose efforts led to creation of International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), adoption of Geneva conventions and creation of iconic Red Cross symbol. He is first recipient of Nobel Peace Prize. History of Red Cross symbol- Henri Dunant witnessed suffering of wounded soldiers abandoned on battlefield of Solferino (in northern Italy) in 1859. On returning to Geneva, he wrote ‘A Memory of Solferino’. It was about horrors of war he witnessed and also proposed an organization dedicated to help war wounded. In February 1863, a five-member committee met to study various Dunant’s proposals which included having a ‘single distinctive symbol backed by law to indicate respect for army medical services, volunteers with first aid societies and victims of armed conflicts’. In October 1863, an International Conference convened adopted ten resolutions for establishment of relief societies for wounded soldiers and ‘red cross’ as uniform distinctive emblem. Later, in August 1864, a Diplomatic Conference was convened which transformed resolutions adopted in 1863 into treaty rules. It adopted First Geneva Convention which recognized red-cross on a white background as single distinctive emblem. The Red Cross symbol on a white background is actually an inversion of Swiss flag (with white cross on a red background).

7) The Ministry of Home Affairs announced that it has put an end to the local adverse lists commonly known as ‘Black Lists’ of Indian-origin people. About Black List: It is maintained by Indian missions (Indian Embassies in different countries) and posts abroad. It contains list of Indian-origin people who have taken asylum (i.e. right to international protection in this other country) abroad under plea of alleged persecution in India. These asylum seekers in list are predominantly Sikhs. Those who are in list are denied visa services by Indian missions and posts in respective country. Recent Developments: Such Indian-origin asylees (person who is seeking or granted political asylum) and their family members who are now not in adverse list, will be granted visa and consular services at par with foreigners of country in which they are living. They can also get Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards if they have held normal Indian visas for at least two years. Note: An OCI card holder is an immigration status which permits a foreign citizen of Indian origin to live and work in India indefinitely.

8) The Fifth United Nations (UN) Global Road Safety Week is being held from 6 May to 12 May 2019. The theme for weekly event in 2019 is “Leadership for road safety”. About 5th UN Global Road Safety Week 2019: The UN Global Road Safety Weeks and its’ campaigns are coordinated by United Nations Road Safety Collaboration, chaired by World Health Organization (WHO). During the on-going global road safety week WHO released “Global Status Report on Road Safety”. As it is acknowledged that with a stronger leadership for road safety Global Goals could be achieved, so it launched action through ongoing campaign “Save Lives – #SpeakUp”. About “Save Lives – #SpeakUp” campaign- It operates on principles of ‘Decade of Action for Road Safety 2011-2020’. The Decade of Action seeks to prevent road traffic injuries and deaths which are projected to take lives of about 1.9 million people annually by 2020. It provides an opportunity for civil society to demand a strong leadership for road safety, particularly around evidence-based interventions that will save lives. It also inspires leaders to take action by displaying strong leadership for road safety within governments, private companies, NGOs, international agencies, schools and universities. Key Findings of Global Status Report on Road Safety: WHO- All over the world Road accidents are leading cause of death among people in between 5years- 29years of age. Every year more than 1.35 million lives are lost and 50 million gets injured in road accidents. India’s Performance: Since 2008, India has maintained questionable distinction of being world number one in road crash deaths. In 2015, India became a signatory to Brasilia Declaration on Road Safety, where it committed to reduce 50% of its road crash deaths by 2020. But even after 2015, full scale of problem in India is still unacknowledged. As per Indian government data on road accidents, road crashes kill about 1,50,000 people each year. Although WHO report argues that numbers are understated and that India might be losing more than 2,99,000 people each year.

9) The United States President Donald Trump awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom, country’s highest civilian honour to golfer Tiger Woods. The 43-year-old Tiger Woods became fourth and youngest, professional golfer to receive prestigious highest civilian honor (after other golfers Arnold Palmer (74 years), Jack Nicklaus (65years) and Charlie Sifford(92 years)). About The Presidential Medal of Freedom: It was first established by President Truman to honour extraordinary civilian accomplishments related to World War II. Later, in 1963 the medal was re-established by President Kennedy by an executive order. It is awarded by U.S. President to any person, living or dead (i.e. posthumously). It is awarded every year to people who have made “especially meritorious contribution” (outstanding) contributions to security or national interests of U.S., and to world peace, or other significant cultural or public or private endeavours. President usually awards the medal of freedom in groups during public ceremonies. Once given it cannot be revoked. 2018 Recipients: Roger Staubach, Miriam Adelson, Babe Ruth, and Elvis Presley, among others. About Tiger Woods: Eldrick Tont Woods is an USA’s professional golf player. His nickname is “Tiger”. He ranks second in both major championships and PGA (Professional Golfers’ Association of America) Tour wins. He holds numerous records in golf and is considered one of the greatest golfers of all time.

10) India and Bangladesh will jointly produce a feature movie on life and works of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman (founding father of People’s Republic of Bangladesh) and also a documentary on Bangladesh Liberation War (1971). India’s state broadcaster Prasar Bharati will co-produce the film. Bilateral Meet: The decision was taken after Bangladeshi delegation led by Dr. Gowher Rizvi (adviser to Prime Minister of Bangladesh) recently met secretary and other officials of Information & Broadcasting Ministry and focussed on various aspects of making of feature film. The announcement is a culmination of three-year dialogue between India and Bangladesh on the issue. Earlier, decision of co-production was announced by Prime Ministers of India Narendra Modi and of Bangladesh Prime Ministers Sheikh Hasina. The movie announcement comes in backdrop of raging debate on National Register of Citizens (NRC) in northeast which seeks to disenfranchise Bangladeshi migrants. Key Agreement: Movie on Sheikh Mujibur Rahman will be directed by renowned filmmaker Shyam Benegal and script will be written by Atul Tiwari. Bangladeshi Delegation assured full cooperation in ensuring smooth logistics for shooting movie in Bangladesh. For documentary on Bangladesh Liberation War (1971) it was mutually agreed that director would be from Bangladesh and he will be assisted by a co-director from India. Other decisions: Prasar Bharati agreed to carry Bangladesh TV on DD Free Dish platform without charging carriage fees (i.e. free of cost.). In a reciprocal gesture, delegation from Bangladesh announced that a Doordarshan channel will be adopted on the about to launched DTH platform of Bangladesh. A working agreement on cooperation between All India Radio (India’s national public radio broadcaster) and Bangladesh Betar (state-owned radio broadcasting organisation of Bangladesh) was also agreed upon between the two countries starting from next month.

11) For the very first time scientists carried out genetic study on people of Lakshadweep Islands. It was conducted by a team of researchers at CSIR’s (Council of Scientific & Industrial Research) Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB). The authors studied major islands of Kadmat, Andorth, Chetlat, Agatti, Kalpeni, Bitra, Kiltan and Minicoy of Lakshadweep. Key Findings of Study: They studied major islands of Kadmat, Andorth, Chetlat, Agatti, Kalpeni, Bitra, Kiltan and Minicoy of Lakshadweep. They analyzed DNA samples of 557 individuals from eight major islands for mitochondrial DNA and 166 individuals for Y chromosome markers. Unlike earlier when it was presumed that people of Lakshadweep Islands might have presence of genetic signatures of ancient people, like Andamanese and Australian aboriginals. It shows that majority of human ancestry in Island of Lakshadweep is largely derived from South Asia with minor influences from East and West Eurasia. It found close genetic link of Lakshadweep islanders with people from Maldives, Sri Lanka and India. However, it did not found any evidence of early human migration through Lakshadweep islands. Although, genetic composition of first human settlement of Lakshadweep archipelago is still not clear. But it found that there is a strong founder effect for both paternal and maternal lineages which signals that island’s population had limited genetic mixing. Geographical Facts: Lakshadweep: It was formerly (1956–73) called Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindivi Islands. It is India’s union territory. It is an archipelago (extensive group of islands) of 36 islands in Laccadive Sea, scattered over 30,000 square miles of Arabian Sea. Its administrative centre (capital) is Kavaratti. ‘Lakshadweep’ in Malayalam language and in Sanskrit means “Hundred Thousand Islands”. Nine Degree Channel: separates Minicoy Island from rest of Lakshadweep. Eight Degree Channel: Separates entire group of Lakshadweep islands from Maldives.

12) Every year 8 May is observed as ‘World Thalassaemia Day’ globally. The theme for 2019 was “Universal access to quality thalassaemia healthcare services: Building bridges with and for patient”. About World Thalassaemia Day: Objective: to raise awareness about thalassaemia (a genetic disease), its prevention and measures to avoid its transmission among people throughout the world. It is observed in honour of all patients suffering and fighting from thalassaemia and also all scientists working hard to provide improved quality of life to people suffering with it. About Thalassemia: It is an inherited blood disorder characterised by less haemoglobin (Hb) and lesser than normal blood cells. A person suffering from thalassemia has at least one of the parents as disease carrier. Reason: Genetic mutation and deletion of some key gene fragments leads to thalassemia. Less haemoglobin in patient’s body results in improper oxygen transport and destruction of red blood cells (RBCs) and leads to anemia. This further leads to iron overload, bone deformities especially in face and in severe cases can cause heart diseases. Apart from bone deformities a person with thalassemia can also have yellow or pale skin, dark coloured urine, delayed growth and excessive tiredness. eing a genetic disease its prevention is difficult but can be diagnosed by blood tests. At Risk: People who have a case of thalassemia in family history are at high risk of disorder. It is more common among people of Mediterranean (like Italian, Greek, Middle Eastern) and Southeast Asian ancestry, and in African-Americans. Treatment: It can be treated by blood transfusions and chelation therapy. In children it can be cured by bone marrow transplant. But, some signs and symptoms only develop during later childhood or adolescence.

13) According to a study, called Global Assessment about 40% of amphibian species and more than a third (33%) of all marine mammals are threatened. The report released by Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) was compiled by 145 expert authors from 50 countries and supported by 130 countries (including the U.S., China and Russia). It contained a petition of estimates made after three-year review of about 15,000 scientific papers. Key Highlights of Report: Up to one million of estimated eight million plant, insect and animal species on earth is at risk of extinction, with many within decades. Up to 40% of amphibian species and more than a third (33%) of all marine mammals are threatened. Cause: According to report species face risk because of relentless pursuit of economic growth, twinned with impact of climate change. Industrial farming and fishing are other major drivers of threat. It also shows deep impact of rise of globalised industrial society on earth over past half century (50 years). This loss is direct result of human activity and constitutes a direct threat to human well-being through-out the world. Recommendations: Only a wide-ranging transformation of economic and financial system globally could pull our ecosystems back from brink of collapse. It reiterates message by United Nations’ Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) report, which stressed that profound economic and social changes would be needed to curb greenhouse gases (GHGs) quickly enough to avert most devastating consequences of warming in world. It suggests that world may need to embrace a new “post-growth” form of economics if it is to avert existential risks posed by the mutually-reinforcing. Way Forward: The findings of Global Assessment will add pressure on countries to come out with a bold action plan to protect wildlife at 15th session of Conference of the Parties to the Conference on Biodiversity (CBD), taking place in China in October 2020. About IPBES: It was founded by United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) on 21 April 2012. It is headquartered in Bonn, Germany. It is a global scientific body similar in composition and functioning of IPCC. Function: It is an intergovernmental body established by UN to assess state of planet’s biodiversity and of ecosystem services it provides to society, in response to requests from decision makers. Members: At present over 130 governments are its member States. India is its founding member.

14) About 115 peacekeepers from 43 different nations, who sacrificed their lives in line of duty were paid tribute by UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres along with other top UN officials and Peacekeeping personnel. Among those honoured by global organisation were two Indians named Jitender Kumar and Shikha Garg. They lost their lives in paece keeping services between January 2018 and March 2019. Jitender Kumar: was an Indian police officer deployed to UN Organisation Stabilisation Mission in Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). Shikha Garg: was a consultant with UN Development Programme (UNDP), attached with India’s Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. She was killed in Ethiopian Airlines (ET 302) plane crash. 103 out of 1155 peacekeepers were African peacekeepers. At tribute ceremony their names were read out loud and it was attended by diplomats and family members of those who have fallen.

15) The ‘Team Caeli’ from India comprising of three Indian students namely Bharat Sundal, Aakash Bhadana and Vasu Kaushik emerged as First Runner-up (second position) in Microsoft’s Imagine Cup World Championship final held in Seattle, US. The trio won for developing “Caeli”, which is world’s first smart automated anti-pollution and drug delivery mask. About Caeli: It is precisely designed for asthmatic and chronic respiratory patients. Features: It is a sleek, portable, easy to fit/carry inside pocket nebulizer and customized mask. Its drug doses can be scheduled through app. In case of breathing difficulties, app allows user to switch on intelligent mode which provides instant relief drugs. App also monitors real-time air quality and helps people to choose least polluted travel route. For this innovation team has earlier won first position in Asia Regional Final contest held in Sydney in February 2019. About Microsoft’s Imagine Cup World Championship: It is held every year to celebrate top student teams that bring and compete with their biggest, boldest ideas to life. To competing on a global stage for World Champion title, each participant team has to create an original technology project from scratch to finish while. Winner for 2019 was Team EasyGlucose from United States won. They won for their Deep Learning non-invasive blood glucose level monitor.

16) Researchers at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR), Mumbai found new function for stress buster Serotonin. The serotonin may help treat neurological diseases. The results of this study were published in journal named ‘Proceedings of National Academy of Sciences’ (PNAS). About Serotonin: Its chemical name is 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT). It is a monoamine neurotransmitter which means, it is a chemical that signals between neurons. It is a chemical in brain that makes us calm therefore, an increase in 5-HT may enhance individuals capacity to respond to stress. Functions: At level of an organism, serotonin is known to be helpful in coping with stress. But, underlying mechanism of its neuro-protective role was unknown. Significance of recent discovery: It shows that serotonin is involved in generation of new mitochondria (powerhouse of the cell) in neurons, increased cellular respiration and fuel (ATP) in cell. Applications: So far, Serotonin’s newly identified function was only studied in mice and rats. If found to be true in humans, it may have important medical implications like serotonin signalling could be used to prevent mitochondrial abnormalities and neuronal loss. At present, neuronal loss is a major cause of neurodegenerative diseases such as in Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Besides this, abnormal mitochondrial functions are known to cause or contribute to neuronal death.

17) For the first time more than 300 nests of Grizzled Giant Squirrel were sighted by researchers at Pakkamalai Reserve Forests near Gingee (in Eastern Ghats) in Tamil Nadu. About Grizzled Giant Squirrel: It is a large tree squirrel in genus Ratufa (Scientific name is ‘Ratufa macroura’). Features: It is an agile climber and is almost entirely an arboreal, very rarely coming to ground to escape from predators. It is smallest of all the giant squirrels found in Indian subcontinent, Distribution: In India it is found in patches of riparian forest along Kaveri River and in hill forests of southern states-Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kerala. It is also found in Sri Lanka. It is generally known to nest in foothills of Western Ghats ranging from Chinnar Wildlife sanctuary in Kerala to Anamalai Tiger Reserve and Palani hills in Tamil Nadu and in couple of areas in Eastern Ghats. In 1988, The Grizzled Squirrel Wildlife Sanctuary located in Tamil Nadu was established to protect vulnerable grizzled giant squirrel. Conservation status: It is threatened by habitat loss, poaching and is also in high demand in pet trade. International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List: Near Threatened. Listed under Schedule II of CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora). Listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA),1972.

18) Purple frog could be soon designated as Kerala’s state amphibian. The proposal for this is being mooted by Kerela’s leading Herpetologists (a specialist in study of reptiles and amphibians). The odd-looking species is endemic to Western Ghats. The title would help in protecting species fragile habitat. About Purple Frog: Scientific Name: Nasikabatrachus sahyadrensis (N. sahyadrensis). It is also known as Maveli frog or Pignose Frog. Features: Its body appears sturdy and swollen. It is relatively round in shape as compared to other flattened frogs. Compared to other frogs it has a small head and an unusual pointed snout (muzzle). In most cases adults are dark purplish-grey in color. Habitat: For almost its entire life it lives in underground tunnels and comes out to surface for only a single day in a year to breed. Distribution: They were thought to be limited to south of the Palghat Gap (a pass which is located between Nilgiri Hills to north and Anaimalai Hills to south) in Western Ghats, but are now known to be quite widely distributed in Western Ghats. As per Herpetologists purple frog should rightly be called ‘living fossil’ as it is believed that they have co-existed with dinosaurs almost 70 million years ago. IUCN Red List: Their conservation status is endangered as per International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

19) According to reports, India is in talks with the United Kingdom (UK) for building a new state-of-the-art aircraft carrier that would be replicate (copycat version) of Britain’s HMS Queen Elizabeth aircraft carrier as part of ongoing ‘Make in India’ negotiations. It will be named ‘INS Vishal’ in 2022 and will become Indian Navy’s largest warship. Key Highlights: As talks are underway for Indian Navy to buy detailed plans for British Warship, an Indian deputation have already paid a visit to Rosyth dockyard (in Scotland) where HMS Queen Elizabeth was assembled. Currently second supercarrier, HMS Prince of Wales, is being built there. The design for UK aircraft carriers is owned by British and French aerospace giants BAE and Thales. They have begun discussion with India and proposed that carrier’s design can be modified to meet Indian Navy and local industry requirements. Once agreed upon deal, the new warship would be built in India (under Make in India initiative) but UK companies could supply many of its parts. The new Naval carrier would serve alongside India’s INS Vikramaditya (a 45,000-ton carrier which was bought from Russia in 2004) and INS Vikrant (a 40,000-ton carrier which is currently under-construction). This could give India a larger carrier fleet than Britain. The India-UK Naval deal which is yet to fructify would follow sale of Britain’s Falklands War carrier HMS Hermes to India in 1987, which was later renamed INS Viraat (it was decommissioned in 2017). HMS Queen Elizabeth: It is a 65,000-ton British warship. It is largest warships ever built for Royal Navy and is capable of carrying up to 60 aircraft (or up to 40 F-35B fighter). It was named in honour of Queen Elizabeth I.
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20) G D Robert Govender, an Indian–origin journalist in South Africa was honoured with V K Krishna Menon Award 2019 in United Kingdom for his contribution as pioneer of decolonised journalism. He became first person to be honoured with this award posthumously. The award was given by ‘V K Krishna Menon Institute’ on 123rd birth anniversary of renowned Indian diplomat and politician V K Krishna Menon. About G D Robert Govender: He was born in South Africa in August 1930. During his career in journalism spanning nearly 60 years, he had developed international repute as campaigning journalist and author and was also first journalist to call for international boycott of whites-only sports teams of South Africa. His books include ‘The Martyrdom of Patrice Lumumba’ which had exposed role of Western intelligence agencies in murder of Congolese independence leader. He died in London, UK in 2016. About V K Krishna Menon: He was India’s first High Commissioner to Britain (United Kingdom). He served as Defence Minister of India from April 1957 to October 1962. He holds the record for longest speech (8 hours) before UN Security Council (UNSC) while defending India’s sovereignty over Kashmir.

21) Panama’s Electoral Court declared the centre-left candidate Laurentino Cortizo as winner of Panama’s presidential election. Cortizo is candidate for Panama’s Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD), which won 33% of 95% of votes counted. The PRD was founded in 1979 by military ruler Omar Torrijos and has been out of power since 2009. About Laurentino “Nito” Cortizo: He is a 66-year-old cattleman who was educated in US. He has earlier served as country’s minister of agriculture and also held roles at regional Organisation of American States, and worked in construction and livestock sectors. His presidential campaign focused on combating inequality and corruption, rising unemployment, Panama’s education system, state of water utilities and rubbish collection in capital, Panama City and slowing economic growth in this Central America trade and financial hub. About Panama: It is a Central America country located on Isthmus of Panama (narrow bridge of land connecting North and South America). It is a tropical nation renowned as site of Panama Canal (which cuts through its midsection and connects Atlantic and Pacific Oceans). It lies between Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean. Its national currency is ‘the balboa’. It is issued only in coins. The balboa is at par with U.S. dollar, and U.S. paper currency is freely circulated.

22) The Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) distributed more than one lakh bee-boxes among farmers and unemployed youths across India in less than two years under its ‘Honey Mission’ initiative. This is the first time such mass scale distribution of honey bee boxes has taken place in country. About Honey Mission: It was launched in August 2017 in line with PM Narendra Modi’s call for ‘Sweet Revolution’ (revolution in production of honey to increase its production) in 2016 while introducing Banas Honey project at Deesa in Gujarat. Under this mission KVIC provides beekeepers- Practical training about examination of honeybee colonies. Acquaintance with apicultural equipments. Identification and management of bee enemies and diseases. Honey extraction and wax purification. Management of bee colonies in spring, summer, monsoon, autumn and winter seasons. So far, KVIC have created more than 10,000 new jobs and around 25,000 additional man days through fabrication of bee boxes and honey extractors. KVIC would provide loans for setting up processing units, packaging units and labelling units for honey. Importance: Production of healthy honey and wax, ands bee-keeping would open many job opportunities for unemployed youths and also for saspiring young entrepreneurs. Under mission till date about 246 metric tonnes of honey has been extracted through these bee-boxes valuing over Rs 4 crore. Earlier on 21 May 2018 on occasion of World Honey Bee Day, KVIC distributed 1,000 bee-boxes among 100 Mishing tribe in Kaziranga forest area in Assam and created a new world record of distributing maximum number of bee boxes in a single day. About Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC): It is a statutory body formed under ‘Khadi and Village Industries Commission Act of 1956’ by Government of India. It is an apex organisation under Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME). It is nodal implementation agency of Prime Minister Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP) at national level. PMEGP is a major credit-linked subsidy programme being implemented by MSME Ministry since 2008-09 and will Continue till 2019-20. It aims to generate employment in India’s rural and urban areas.

23) Justice PR Ramachandra Menon was sworn in as Chief Justice of Chhattisgarh High Court. He now becomes 13th Chief Justice of Chhattisgarh HC. His oath of office and secrecy was administered by state Governor Anandiben Patel at Raj Bhawan, Raipur. Key Facts: The Chhattisgarh High Court is located at Bodri District in Bilaspur, Chattisgarh. The Chhattisgarh Chief Justice office had fallen vacant after resignation of Chief Justice Ajay Kumar Tripathi after his appointment as judicial member of Lokpal. Supreme Court three judge collegium headed by Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi and other two Justice S A Bobde and Justice N V Ramana recommended appointment of Justice Menon. Justice Menon has earlier served as Additional Judge of Kerala High Court from January 2009 and was later appointed as permanent Judge of Kerala High Court on December 2010. High Courts in India: The Article 214 of constitution of India mandates each state of India shall have a High Court. The Chief Justice of High Court is appointed as per Article 217 of constitution by President with consultation of CJI and Governor of respective State. The HC Judges are appointed by President in consultation with Chief Justice of India, and also Chief justice of concerned court.

24) The Indian Navy launched fourth Stealth Scorpene-Class submarine ‘INS Vela’ at state owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in Mumbai, Maharashtra. This is fourth submarine that was launched by MDL after it entered into contract with French collaborator Ms Naval Group (earlier known as DCNS) for construction and transfer of technology for six Scorpene class submarines under Project 75. INS Vela: It is named ‘Vela’ after erstwhile ‘INS Vela’ (second batch of Foxtrot class submarines taken by India from erstwhile USSR) which was first commissioned in Indian Naval service on 31 August 1973 and continued in service for 37 years. It was India’s oldest submarine when it was decommissioned on 25 June 2010. Key Features of INS Vela: It is equipped with modern machinery and technology to guard seas but will undergo several tests by Indian Navy before getting commissioned in defence fleet. It is a diesel-electric attack submarine of Kalvari-class. State-of-the-art attacking capability: it can attack using torpedoes and tube launch anti-ship missiles, whilst on surface or underwater. Stealth: it has superior stealth which gives it invulnerability and makes more difficult for enemy to detect it. Multifarious types of missions: It can undertake missions such as anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, area surveillance, intelligence gathering, mine laying etc. and has ability to launch crippling attack on enemy using precision guided weapon. Operability: It can operate in all theatres, including tropics. Project 75: Under it, MDL will manufacture six Scorpene class submarines (which are next generation diesel submarines) for Indian Navy under technology transfer from Naval Group of France ($3.75 billion contract signed in 2005). The induction of all submarines is expected to be completed by 2020. Under it, submarines are being built using modular approach in which different sections are built separately and later assembled on pontoons (or floats). They are fitted with indigenously developed Air Independent Propulsion System (AIP) technology by DRDO for extended endurance. About MDL: MDL was first shipyard in India to build submarines back in 1992, when dock built INS Shalki. NOTE: INS Kalvari, the first submarine in Scorpene class, has already been commissioned, while others are at adavance level of trial and test. The third in Scorpene series INS Karanj was launched in January 2019. The fifth Scorpene-class submarine INS Vagir and sixth Scorpene-class submarine INS Vagsheer are in advanced stages of manufacturing on the assembly line and will be launched soon.

25) North Korea (Democratic People’s Republic of Korea) fired several short range projectiles into Sea of Japan under the command of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. About Missile Test: Objective: The purpose of drill was to test operating ability and accuracy of multiple rocket launchers and tactical guided weapons and also to increase country’s combat ability. This could be North Korea first short range missile launch after more than a year since it is in talk with US for nuclear disarmament. Pressure tactics of test: The attempt seeks to put pressure on US in aftermath of deadlocked nuclear talks between leader Kim Jong-un and US President Donald Trump in their second meeting held at Vietnam. Although country has gained few tangible economic benefits from two summit meetings, but Kim Jong-un is now returning to strategy followed by his father and grandfather who have long track record of promising changes and then snatching them away. Importance for US: As US heads into 2020 presidential election, this move by North Korea may threaten signature diplomatic initiative by President Trump depriving him of opportunity to declare that he brought peace with Island Nation (which his predecessors failed). But, in reality peace never got very far as even suspension of all nuclear and missile testing hangs in balance. As per USA’s intelligence agencies report to Congress, North Korea in 2018 produced more nuclear material and fabricating an unknown quantity of it into new weapons. Geographic Facts: Sea of Japan: The usage of term “Sea of Japan” as dominant name is a disputed issue. South Korea wants its name to be “East Sea” and North Korea prefers “East Sea of Korea”. It is a marginal sea located between Japan, Korean Peninsula and Russia. It is connected to other seas by five straits namely Strait of Tartary, La Perouse Strait, Tsugaru Strait, Kanmon Strait and Korea Strait. Japanese archipelago separates Sea of Japan from Pacific Ocean. It has almost no tides and less salinity due to its nearly complete enclosure from Pacific Ocean.

26) The Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment (GRIHA) Council has launched a rating tool ‘GRIHA for Existing Day Schools’ to evaluate the environmental performance of existing schools across India. GRIHA for Existing Day Schools: GRIHA for Existing Day Schools will work as an integrated tool to evaluate performance and provide solutions for enhanced energy and water efficiencies, increased thermal and visual comfort, and decreased operational and maintenance costs. The rating system is also aimed at familiarizing the students with the concepts of sustainability by involving them, under the guidance of their teachers, on evaluating the environmental impact of schools on the environment. The rating system will also provide the students and teachers with an opportunity to establish contact with nature and with each other using the approach of co-creation and understanding. GRIHA Council: GRIHA Council is a registered society for the interaction on scientific and administrative issues related to sustainable habitats in the Indian context. It was founded by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI) with support from the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy along with a variety of experts in the fields related to sustainability of built environment from across the country. GRIHA Council promotes GRIHA- the National Rating System as a design and evaluation tool for green buildings and habitats.

27) Following the order of the Ministry of Human Resource and Development, the government of Karnataka has taken the necessary steps and has issued the guidelines for the school. The government has issued guidelines to reduce the weight of schoolbags. The government of Karnataka has issued a circular to all schools government, aided and unaided to take necessary steps to ensure that the weight of a schoolbag is not more than 10% of the child’s weight. What does the Circular Say? The bag of a student in Class 1 or 2 would weigh no more than 2 kg and the bag can weigh anywhere between 2 and 3 kg for students from Class 3 to 5. The prescribed weight increases progressively, with students in Class 9 and 10 allowed carrying bags in the 4-5 kg range. Further, students in Classes 1 and 2 should not be given any homework. Schools must set a timetable in advance, which will limit the number of books that have to be brought to class every day. All classwork should be kept in the school itself, either in files or books. Schools have been asked to provide some space in classrooms where students can store their notebooks and textbooks. Schools have been asked to make provisions for drinking water facilities so students don’t have to carry water bottles. The third Saturday of every month would be observed as a “No School Bag Day” and on that day, teachers are required to engage students without any books or supplementary materials. The suggested activities on No school bag day include field visits, general knowledge clubs, art classes, indoor and outdoor games, abacus, dance classes, and debates. Further, the government has asked the management of schools to create awareness about the health hazards of lugging heavy school bags.

28) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) has predicted that asteroid 99942 Apophis will fly towards the Earth in ten years. There is no need to worry since the asteroid will be about 31,000km away from the surface of the Earth. Since it is relatively rare for such a large object like 99942 Apophis to pass so close to Earth, it will offer scientists around the world a great opportunity to conduct a close-up study of the Apophis’ shape, composition and possibly even its interior. NASA has stated that about 2 billion people should be able to see it pass by with their naked eyes as it flies above Earth from the east coast to the west coast of Australia, then across the Indian Ocean and the equator, before moving west above Africa and finally over the Atlantic Ocean. Scientists predict that Apophis still has a small chance of impacting Earth, less than 1 in 100,000 many decades from now. 99942 Apophis: Asteroid 99942 Apophis was discovered by US astronomers in 2004 and was named after the Egyptian god of chaos and destruction. It is a 370-meter diameter near-Earth asteroid.

29) The government had introduced the FAME II scheme to boost the adoption of electric and hybrid vehicles in the country. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has made the following observations about the scheme: It estimates that India can save 64% of anticipated road-based mobility-related energy demand and 37% of carbon emissions in 2030 by pursuing a shared, electric, and connected mobility future. This reduction in energy demand would result in the reduction of 156 million tonnes of oil equivalent (Mtoe) in diesel and petrol consumption for that year and net saving of approximately $60 billion in 2030 at present oil prices. Further, this would give impetus to India’s vision of reducing oil imports by 10% by 2022. The electric vehicle penetration in India is currently at just 1%, FAME alone is not enough to reach the 30% electric vehicles target by 2030. CII calls for boosting of the domestic manufacturing of vehicles, components and batteries needed to be boosted, along with skill development across the value chain, and the strategic sourcing of key raw material. For transport to go truly green, there must be accompanied by a rising share of renewables along with environmentally sustainable batteries. Transport sector in India continues to be the highest oil consuming sector and the use of diesel and petrol grew at 5.9% and 9.9% respectively in the last 10 years. India’s import dependency on oil has increased from 78.3 per cent of total consumption in 2014-15 to settling at a new high of 83.7% in the 10-month period of FY19. Hence FAME scheme has multiple benefits for both the economy and environment.

30) Zero Pendency Courts Project is the pilot project of the Delhi High Court. The pilot project was undertaken in certain subordinate courts of Delhi to identify benchmarks for different types of cases timelines, number of judges required, case flow management rules and a host of other relevant factors. The project was also aimed to provide information on the judicial time required to dispose of a case together with the gathering stage wise details in each case. Findings of the Study: The Zero Pendency Courts Project aimed to study the life cycle of cases to come up with optimal timelines for cases has made the following observations: Delhi needs 43 more judges above the current strength of 143 to clear all the pending cases in one year. Persisting delays have made the system less credible as litigants have to wait for decades to get their cases resolved. As a result of the increase in the number of filings over the years, the pendency of cases is bound to increase if no proper targeted steps are taken to overcome the issue. It was estimated that judicial delays cost India around 1.5% of its Gross Domestic Product annually. The report identifies the absence of witnesses, unnecessary adjournments sought by the advocates or the parties, lesser number of judges and delay in the service of summons, especially to outstation parties as the reason for the persistent delays in case disposals. The findings from the pilot project will aid in providing a new understanding required to solve the vexed problem of pendency in the Indian legal system.

31) The last captive white tiger named Bajirao died recently at Sanjay Gandhi National Park, in Borivali (Mumbai suburb). He was 18 years and died due to old age related issues. He was born at national park in 2001. Reason: He suffered from chronic ankyloses (fusion of bones leads to abnormal stiffening and immobility of joint) on left shoulder and chronic senile generalised arthritis from past four years. Bajirao was born at the Sanjay Gandhi National Park in 2001. About White tigers: They are not a separate sub-species of tiger. They are basically a pigmentation variant of the Bengal Tiger. Their white colour is due to lack of red or yellow pheomelanin pigment, and presence of unique recessive genes. They are also called Bleached Tiger. Characteristics: They have white to almost cream colored fur, pink nose, black/grey/chocolate colored stripes and blue (looks like green or amber). Distribution in India: They were found in Madhya Pradesh, Assam, West Bengal, Bihar and in Sunderbans region. Now there are no white tigers in wild as their entire population in world lives in captivity. The last white tiger reported in wild was captured in Rewa forest in Madhya Pradesh. Sanjay Gandhi National Park: It is a protected area in Borivali suburb in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It was earlier known as Borivali National Park. It encloses two lakes namely Vihar Lake and Tulsi Lake and has a protected archaeological site, called ‘Kanheri Caves’ in its centre.

32) Dancing Marathon by an Individual’. She danced exclusively to Nepalese music continuously for 126 hours (over five days). Old Record: She broke record set by India’s Kalamandalam Hemlatha, who danced continuously for 123 hours and 15 minutes in 2011. He performed classical dance form Mohiniyattam and set record at age of 37. About Guinness World Records: Since its inception from 1933 to 2000 it was known as ‘The Guinness Book of Records’, later it was renamed Guinness World Records. It is a reference book which lists record-breaking achievements. It is published annually.

33) ‘Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act, 2019’ came into force from May 1. It allows that shops, commercial establishments and businesses running in state can now remain open round the clock (24X7). The act was passed by state Assembly in February 2019, but was notified on occasion of Gujarat’s foundation day, 1 May 1960. Key Highlights: Gujarat Shops and Establishments (Regulation of Employment and Conditions of Service) Act 2019. It replaces ‘Gujarat Shops and Establishments Act of 1948’ which prohibited shops and other businesses from remaining open between 12 am to 6 am. Now shops and commercial establishments employing less than ten persons will need no registration and those employing more than 10 workers will require one-time registration with no need for annual renewal. Working hours for women employees can be only between 6 am and 9 pm. It could be relaxed if after considering safety issues authorities make a written request. Benefits: Increase Employment: In Gujarat about seven lakh shops and businesses employ less than ten persons and generate direct employment of about 10-12 lakh persons. As per new law they do not require registration. Overtime Perks: Employees working overtime will get paid twice their pay, against one and half time under previous law. Biggest beneficiaries of amendments to existing law would be markets, malls, food outlets and retailers, especially during festive season.

34) Iran announced it will continue with its low-level uranium enrichment in line with its nuclear deal with world powers. This move comes when on 3 May 2019, US forced Iran to stop producing low-enriched uranium and halt expanding its only nuclear power plant, thus intensifying campaign aimed at stopping Tehran’s ballistic missile programme and curbing its regional power. Move taken by US against Iran: US efforts to impose political and economic isolation on Tehran began in 2018 when US President Trump unilaterally withdrew from nuclear deal which US and other world powers negotiated with Iran in 2015. US also scrapped its sanctions waiver under 2015 nuclear deal which until now allowed Iran to ship low enriched uranium produced at its Natanz facility, to Russia before it hit 300 kg limit and can even evade 300 kg limit on amount of low-enriched uranium it can store. In recent move US announced discontinuing waivers and sanctions for countries (even India) buying oil from Iranian oil. It is an attempt to reduce Iran’s oil exports to zero. It also blacklisted Iran’s elite Revolutionary Guard Corps as terrorist Organization. Arguments by Iran: As per (nuclear accord) Iran can produce heavy water (which is employed in reactors to produce plutonium, a fuel used in nuclear warheads), as this does not violate agreement so Iran will carry on with enrichment activity. Its low-enriched uranium production helps Iran produce electricity. Iran called for talks with its other partners in nuclear deal and UN’s International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to approve that Iran can enrich fuel to 20 percent and higher. It is trying to counter US sanctions by continuing to export its oil at the same time boosting its non-oil exports. In a move to increase its hard currency income and cut down currency expenditures, Iran will increase production and raise non-oil exports. IAEA: International Atomic Energy Agency: It was established in 1957as an autonomous organization with headquarters Vienna. It’s objective is to promote peaceful use of nuclear energy, and prevent its use for any military purpose, including production of nuclear weapons. Although it is independent of UN but it reports to both United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) and to UN Security Council (UNSC). It won Nobel Peace Prize in 2005.

35) Reserve Bank of India (RBI) imposed a monetary penalty on five Pre-Paid Payment Instrument (PPI) issuers which include Vodafone’s m-pesa and Phonepe, for violating its regulatory guidelines under provisions of Payment and Settlement Systems Act, 2007. Other facing Penalty includes, Western Union Financial Services Inc., MoneyGram Payment Systems Inc, (both are US firms) for for compounding of contravention and non-compliance of RBI guidelines and on Mobile Payments and Private and GI Technology. About Pre-Paid Payment Instrument (PPIs): PPIs are instruments which come with a preloaded value and in even with pre-defined purpose of payment. PPIs facilitates financial services, inter-personal remittance transactions (like sending money to friend or a family member), purchase of goods and services (G&S), etc., against amount stored on such instruments. Examples of PPIs: any smart cards (or chip card), magnetic stripe cards (or swipe card), internet accounts (like PayPal), internet wallets, mobile accounts, mobile wallets, paper vouchers (like travel and food vouchers) and any instruments used to access prepaid amount. Three types of PPIs issued in India are: Closed System PPIs: are issued by an entity for facilitating purchase of G&S from that entity only and do not permit fund transfer or cash withdrawal. . They can be used only at specific locations. These do not require RBI approval. Ex- a brand specific gift card(Amazon/Pantaloons gift card). Semi-closed System PPIs: are issued by banks (approved by RBI) and non-banks (authorized by RBI) for purchase of G&S at merchant locations which have specific contract with issuer to accept PPIs as payment instruments. These are not restricted to a single entity and can be used for fund transfer. Ex- e-wallets like Oxigen, Mobikwik, PayTm. Open System PPIs: are issued only by banks (approved by RBI) and are used at any merchant for purchase of G&S and also for cash withdrawals at ATMs, Points of Sale (PoS) terminals and Business Correspondents (BCs). Ex- Vodafone mPesa. Unlike open system PPI, closed and semi closed PPIs can be issued by NBFC and other entities who avail a license from RBI. PPI issuer is an entity operating in a payment system who issues PPIs to individuals or organisations and uses money so collected to make payment to merchants. PPI Holder is an individual or organisation who purchases PPI from PPI issuer and uses same for purchase of goods and services.

36) The Indian Navy’s frontline missile destroyer INS Ranjit will be decommissioned after 36 years of service. It was commisioned on September 15, 1983, with Captain Vishnu Bhagwat in command. The decommission ceremony will be held at Visakhapatnam’s naval dockyard on 6 May 2019. About INS Ranjit: It was third of five Kashin-class destroyers (a series of anti-aircraft guided missile destroyers) built by former USSR. As of 2019, only one Kashin-class destroyers ship remains in service with Russian Navy, and five with Indian Navy as Rajput-class destroyers. It is first of five Rajput class destroyer to go out of service. It was constructed with serial number ‘Yard 2203’ in 61 Communards shipyard in Nikolev town, in Ukraine. She was launched formally on 16 June 1979 and was given its Russian name “Lovkly” meaning “Agile”. With a motto of ‘Sada Rane Jayate’ or ‘Ever Victorious in Battle’, INS Ranjit has been at forefront in keeping nation secure and deployed in a number of operations including IPKF (Indian Peace Keeping Force) operations and Operation Talwar (1999) during Kargil conflict. Note: The Rajput-class destroyers (also known as Kashin-II class or Project 61E) are modified versions of Soviet Kashin class destroyers. It includes INS Rajput, INS Rana, INS Ranjit, INS Ranvir and INS Ranvijay. The Rajput class destroyers were first to be fitted with Brahmos supersonic cruise missiles.

37) Mysore based Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI), has prepared nearly one lakh meals for distribution in cyclone Fani hit areas of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh and West Bengal. The severe cyclonic storm named Cyclone Fani had recently made a landfall impact on May 3, 2019 in Puri on Odisha coast. About CFTRI: It is a premier food research laboratory under Ministry of Science and Technology (MoS&T), Government of India. It is Council of Scientific and Industrial Research’s (CSIR) constituent laboratory. It was established in 1950 and is headquartered in Mysore, Karnataka. Its resource centers are in Hyderabad, Lucknow and Mumbai. Functions: It develops technologies to increase efficiency and reduce post-harvest crop losses, increase export, add conveniences and find new sources of food products, integrate human resources in food industries, reduce costs and modernize supply chains. Some of its research areas are Food engineering, food biotechnology, microbiology, grain sciences, sensory science, Biochemistry, Molecular Nutrition and food safety. Past Initiatives: In past disaster, CFTRI has sent food and relief material to Kerala during floods in 2018 and in 2013 flood victims of Uttarakhand.

38) The Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) to Central government, Dr. Krishnamurthy Subramanian is appointed as twelfth (12) member of Advisory Council of Fifteenth (15th) Finance Commission (FCc). Advisory Council: It now has 12 members, which include noted economists Surjit Bhalla, Arvind Virmani, Indira Rajaraman and M Govinda Rao among others. Role and Function: To is to advise FC on any relevant matter or subject related to Terms of Reference (ToR) of Commission. To assists FC in preparing any research paper or study which would enhance commission’s understanding on issue contained in its ToR. To help expand FC understanding in adopting best national and international practices on matters of fiscal devolution and To help improve quality, reach and enforcement of FC recommendations. Finance Commission: It is constituted under article 280 of Constitution by President of India. It mainly gives its recommendations on tax devolution i.e. distribution of tax revenues between Union and States and amongst states themselves. It is appointed for a period of five years and comprise of five member including one chairman and four other members. First FC was constituted under chairmanship of Shri K.C. Neogy on 6th April, 1952. Fifteenth Finance Commission: It was constituted in November 2017, to give recommendations for tax devolution and other fiscal matter for five fiscal years, 1 April 2020- 31 March 2025. It is chaired by N. K. Singh, and members Ajay Narayan Jha, Ashok Lahiri and Anoop Singh. Ramesh Chand is a part-time member in FC.

39) Article titled ‘Coalgate 2.0’, authored by Nileena M. S. and published in March 2018 issue of ‘The Caravan’ magazine, won Asian College of Journalism’s Award for Investigative Journalism, 2018. ‘Coalgate 2.0’: The article investigates allotment of ‘captive coal blocks’ in Parba East and Kanta Basan regions of Chhattisgarh. It explores deforestation, re locations of people, loss of livelihood, and denial of forest rights to tribals. It revealed how a joint venture between Rajasthan Rajya Vidyut Utpadan Nigam Limited (power-corporation of Rajasthan Government) and Adani Enterprises Limited continues to function on basis of agreements that date earlier to September 2014 landmark judgement of Supreme Court, which cancelled almost all existing permissions for captive mining of coal blocks. It is an excellent example of investigative journalism in field of financial reporting. About ACJ Award for Investigative Jounalism: It is instituted by Asian College of Journalism, with support of Media Development Foundation. It recognises and encourage best works of investigative journalism produced for Indian readers, viewers and audiences in order to promote journalism in public interest. It is an award for Print and online/digital/multimedia (newspapers, magazines, websites and others) portals or platforms. It comprises of trophy, a citation and a cash prize of Rs.2,00,000 (rupees two lakhs). Criteria: The piece should be solid work of investigative journalism, combined with extensive research uncovering new evidence to reveal a truth, hitherto unknown to most, and must be of essential public interest. Other stories awarded Special Mentions are: “The Chronicle of Crime Fiction That is Adityanath’s Encounter Raj” written by Neha Dixit for The Wire and “The Death of Judge Loya” authored by Nikita Saxena for The Caravan magazine.

40) Ministry of Defence has approved Indian Navy’s proposal to acquire 10 Kamov-31 helicopters from Russia. The deal worth Rs.3,600 crore, is a move to strengthen Indian Navies capability against aerial threats to its aircraft carriers and large warships. Key Highlights: The Kamov-31 helicopters would be deployed on Indian Navy’s aircraft carriers and warships including INS Vikrant and Grigorovich-class frigates. Its deployment is largely aimed at sanitising air space around battle groups which are led by aircraft carriers while carrying out defence operations in open sea or anti-submarine warfare operations. The decision was taken at Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) meeting chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman (DAC is headed by Defence Minister and members includes three service chiefs and defence secretary). The Kamov-31 deal is a follow-on order (i.e. not a new order as Indian Navy already has a fleet of 12 of these Kamov-31 choppers) therefore once processed by Navy, it will directly be presented before cabinet committee on security for final approval. Kamov Ka-31: It is a military helicopter manufactured by ‘JSC Kamov’ (a Russian rotorcraft manufacturing company) and development started in 1987 for Soviet Navy. It is currently in service in Russia, China and India in Naval role. These are Airborne Early Warning and Control helicopters based on Ka-27 (Ka-28) design. Need: For anti-submarine warfare operations Indian Navy already has fleet of Russian ‘Kamov-28’ choppers along with ‘Seaking’ choppers which were procured in 1980s but they need to be upgraded for future operations.

41) The World Press Freedom Prize also known as UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize is formally conferred every year by Director-General of UNESCO, on occasion of World Press Freedom Day observed on 3 May. Recipients of World Press Freedom Prize 2019. In 2019 award would be shared by two jailed Myanmar journalists ‘Wa Lone’ and ‘Kyaw Soe Oo’ who reported on alleged human rights violations in state of Rakhine, Myanmar. The Reuters reporters are serving seven year prison sentence in Myanmar. They are charged with breaking country’s secrets law for their journalistic investigation on military’s brutal crackdown and killings of Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine state. Importance: It honours a person, organization or institution which has made an outstanding contribution for defending and promoting freedom of press anywhere in world, especially when achieved it in face of danger by fighting all odds. It includes a cash Prize worth $25000. Background: It was established in 1997 on initiative of UNESCO’s Executive Board. The name ‘Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize’ is to honour Guillermo Cano Isaza, a Colombian journalist who was a vocal critic of Columbosa’s powerful drug barons and was assassinated in front of his newspaper El Espectador office in Bogotá, Colombia on 17 December 1986.

42) The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced its plans to launch its latest radar imaging reconnaissance satellite ‘RISAT 2BR1’ towards the end of May 2019. Its launch was earlier scheduled in 2020 after RISAT-2A but is now preponed. About Launch: The RISAT (radar imaging satellite), will be carried by PSLV-C46. It is one of the reusable variants of ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV) rocket, which have offered significant progress and technology sophistication in terms of advancement in space technologies. The designation ‘C-46’ is as per ISRO’s numbering system. It would depart from first launch pad at Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. About Risat Series: On 20 April 2009, RISAT-2 was deployed in orbit prior to RISAT- 1. This was because following 2008 Mumbai terror attacks Indian forces were in dire need of round the clock surveillance. As RISAT- 1’s C-band SAR radar was not yet ready so RISAT -2 was launched carrying Israeli built X-band radar. Therefore ‘RISAT-2’ was deployed before RISAT-1. Its main sensor is X-band synthetic aperture radars (SAR) which provided Indian defence forces all-weather surveillance for monitoring national borders to notice any potential threat or malicious activity and to carry out anti-infiltration and anti-terrorist operations. RISAT-1 was successfully launched on 26 April 2012 for a period of five years. It is first indigenous microwave remote sensing satellite designed and developed by ISRO. It was launched by PSLV-C19 into sun’s synchronous orbit at an altitude of 536 km. It was not designed as a surveillance satellite as it relied on the C-band. Its data was extensively used for applications like natural resources management, in areas of agriculture planning, mainly paddy monitoring in kharif season, forestry surveys and disaster management support, during natural disasters like floods and cyclones. About to be deployed RISAT-2BR1 satellite uses same SAR band and will further improve India’s imaging reconnaissance (surveillance) abilities. Importance: The RISAT series by ISRO are first all-weather earth observation satellites. These Radar imaging satellites are designed to all-weather surveillance using synthetic aperture radars (SAR) i.e. they provide a continuous (24×7) view of earth day or night and even during bad weather for defence forces to detect infiltration along border.