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1. The Union Government has constituted a committee to examine the wage structure, service conditions of the Gramin Dak Sevaks (GDS) in the Department of Posts (DoP). It is one member committee comprising of Kamlesh Chandra, Retired Member of Postal Services Board. The Committee will be assisted by Senior Administrative Grade Officer T.Q. Mohammad who will act as Secretary to the GDS Committee. Terms of reference of the Committee The Committee will go into the service conditions of GDS and suggest changes as considered necessary. Examine the present system of Branch Post Offices, engagement conditions and existing structure of wage and enrolments paid to the GDS and recommend necessary changes. Review the existing Services Discharge Benefits Scheme and also other social security benefits for the GDS and suggest necessary changes. Review the existing facilities as well as welfare measures provided to the GDS and suggest necessary changes. Examine and suggest any changes in the (i) method of minimum qualification for engagement as GDS. (ii) Conduct and disciplinary rules of GDS, particularly keeping in view the proposed induction of technology in the Rural Post Offices. Gramin Dak Sevaks: They are extra-departmental agents recruited by the Department of Post (DoP) to serve in rural areas. Presently, DoP has around 2.6 lakh Gramin Dak Sevaks and they have been demanding pay and facilities at par with regular postal department employees.

2. The Union Ministry of Information & Broadcasting has constituted a committee headed by noted film-maker Shyam Benegal to look into revamp the film certification nuances by Censor Board of Film Censors (CBFC). The committee is tasked to suggest recommendations provide a holistic framework and interpretation of provisions of Cinematograph Act, 1952 and Cinematograph (Certification) Rules, 1983. Other Members of the Committee: Rakeysh Omprakash Mehra, Bhawana Somaaya, Piyush Pandey, Nina Lath Gupta and Joint Secretary (Films) as Member Convenor. Terms of reference of the Committee The committee is expected to take note of the best practices in various parts of the world. Recommend broad guidelines under the provisions of the Cinematograph Act, 1952 for the benefit of the chairperson and other members of the Screening Committee of CBFC. Take into consideration that film industry is given sufficient and adequate space for creative and aesthetic expression. Look into the staffing pattern of CBFC in an effort to recommend a framework which would provide efficient and transparent user friendly services. The Committee has been requested to submit its recommendations within two months. Its recommendations would enable those tasked with the work of certification of films to discharge their responsibilities keeping in view the prescribed framework.

3. Foremost south Indian classical vocalists Sanjay Subrahmanyam has conferred with prestigious 2015 Sangita Kalanidhi award. The prestigious award was bestowed upon him by renowned mathematician Manjul Bhargava at 89th annual conference of the Madras Music Academy in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. With this, he became seventh artistes to be conferred with this award before completing 50 years of age. Others are Ariyakudi Ramanuja Iyengar, Musiri Subramania Iyer, Maharajapuram Viswanatha Iyer, Semmangudi R. Srinivasa Iyer, G.N. Balasubramaniam, M.L. Vasanthakumari and M. Balamuralikrishna About Sanjay Subrahmanyam By profession he is Charted Accountant but in 2000 became full-time musician. He had started performing Carnatic music from 1987. Awards: Gaana Padhmam (2013), Vani Kala Sudhakara (2010) and the title Kalaimamani by Tamil Nadu Government (2006) etc. About Sangita Kalanidhi award/title It is a prestigious award bestowed annually upon an expert of Carnatic Music by the Madras Music Academy. The award’s name has been derived from Sanskrit which means treasure of Music and art in English. This honour is considered one of the highest awards in Carnatic music.

4. India and Pakistan have exchanged the list of their nuclear installations and facilities under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear installations. This exchange is done on 1st of January every year between the two neighbouring countries that bars them from attacking each other’s atomic facilities. This is the 25th consecutive exchange of such list between the two countries, the first one having taken place on 1 January 1992. Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear installations It bilateral agreement signed between India and Pakistan that bars them from carrying out any surprise attack (or to assist foreign power to attack) on each other’s nuclear installations and facilities. It was signed on 31st December 1988 and entered into force on 27 January 1991. It was signed by then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and his Pakistani counterpart Benazir Bhutto. Under it both countries inform each other about their nuclear installations and facilities that need to be covered under the Agreement on 1 January every year.

5. The Union Government has signed a Financing Agreement of 50 million dollars with the World Bank for Nai Manzil Scheme- Education and Skills Training for Minorities. Under this agreement, the credit will be facilitated by the International Development Association (IDA), World Bank’s concessionary lending arm. This credit will be in the form of loan which carries a maturity of 25 years, including a 5-year grace period. The loan funds will be used for interventions under this scheme improve the employability and performance of minority youth in the labour market. The total project size is 100 million dollars, out of which 50 million dollars will be available as IDA credit and the remaining balance funding from the Union Budget. About Nai Manzil Scheme The central scheme is designed to address educational and livelihood needs of minority communities lagging behind in terms of educational attainments. It aims to provide educational intervention by giving the bridge courses to the trainees and getting them Certificates for Class XII and X from distance medium educational system. It seeks to provide trade basis skill training in four courses at the same time of formal education, in field of (i) Manufacturing (ii) Engineering (iii) Services (iv) Soft skills. It intends to cover people in between 17 to 35 age group from all minority communities as well as Madrasa students. This scheme will provide new avenues for minorities for continuing higher education and also open up employment opportunities in the organised sector.

6. The Drug Authentication and Verification Application (DAVA) project of The Department of Commerce has won the 2015 eASIA Award under Trade Facilitation category. The award was announced by Asia Pacific Council for Trade Facilitation (APCTF) and Tehran based (Iran) Electronic Business. The eASIA award is administered by AFACT which aims to development and promotion of trade facilitation, electronic business policies and activities in the Asia Pacific region. About DAVA project DAVA project was launched by Union Government in June 2015. It seeks to create an integrated platform for implementation of the Track and Trace system for exporters and domestic markets of Drugs and Pharmaceuticals. The project aims to cover all the drugs manufactured in India and contribute considerably in enhancing the brand image of our pharmaceutical exporters. It will also provide simpler platform for the regulatory agencies and consumer for establishing drug authentication. Under this project, the DAVA application has been incorporated with value-added features like availability of stocks for a drug in an area/retailers/ wholesalers at a point of time. Using it drugs can easily be identified and recalled due to traceability of stocks which in turn helps in prevention of black marketing which especially arises during epidemics. Presently it has been launched in pilot stage and after its full scale implementation it will help to completely curb out the export of fake or spurious drug from the country.

7. The Drug Authentication and Verification Application (DAVA) project of The Department of Commerce has won the 2015 eASIA Award under Trade Facilitation category. The award was announced by Asia Pacific Council for Trade Facilitation (APCTF) and Tehran based (Iran) Electronic Business. The eASIA award is administered by AFACT which aims to development and promotion of trade facilitation, electronic business policies and activities in the Asia Pacific region. About DAVA project DAVA project was launched by Union Government in June 2015. It seeks to create an integrated platform for implementation of the Track and Trace system for exporters and domestic markets of Drugs and Pharmaceuticals. The project aims to cover all the drugs manufactured in India and contribute considerably in enhancing the brand image of our pharmaceutical exporters. It will also provide simpler platform for the regulatory agencies and consumer for establishing drug authentication. Under this project, the DAVA application has been incorporated with value-added features like availability of stocks for a drug in an area/retailers/ wholesalers at a point of time. Using it drugs can easily be identified and recalled due to traceability of stocks which in turn helps in prevention of black marketing which especially arises during epidemics. Presently it has been launched in pilot stage and after its full scale implementation it will help to completely curb out the export of fake or spurious drug from the country.

8. India’s biggest state owned gas importer Petronet LNG has signed a revised contract with RasGas of Qatar to import gas at a significantly lower price than earlier. Under the new contract, Rasgas will supply Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to Petronet at 6-7 dollar per million British thermal units (mmBtu) from January 1, 2016. It would supply to 7.5 million tonnes of LNG India until the long-term contract ending in April 2028 The new rate is sharply lower than 12-13 dollar per mmbtu agreed earlier and has been revised after falling global prices of oil and gas, saving consumers around Rs.4,000 crore. Comment The new price formula between the two companies is a win-win situation for both countries. It also marks Union Government’s biggest diplomatic win to leverage India’s position as one of the world’s biggest energy consumers by striking better price bargains for its companies. It also indicates that tumbling oil prices and a global gas glut due to overproduction and fall in demand due to global economic slowdown are compelling exporters especially OPEC countries to offer better deals to retain their share in global energy trade.

9. An Indian-origin cancer research expert Harpal Singh Kumar was honoured with a Knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II for his influential work on prevention and treatment of cancer. Mr. Singh’s name has appeared in the 2015 New Year’s Honours list that includes several other Indian-origin individuals.

10. The BCCI Awards are a set of annual cricket awards given by the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). These award in various categories recognise and honour the best Indian international and domestic cricketers of the past year. The awards were first given in 2006–07. Recipients of 2014-15 BCCI Awards are C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award: Syed Mujtaba Hussain Kirmani. Polly Umrigar Award: Virat Kohli. Lala Amarnath Award for Best all-rounder in Ranji Trophy: Jalaj Saxena (Madhya Pradesh). Lala Amarnath Award for Best all-rounder in Domestic Limited-Overs Competitions: Deepak Hooda (Baroda). Madhavrao Scindia Award Highest Scorer in Ranji Trophy: Robin Uthappa (Karnataka). Madhavrao Scindia Award Highest Wicket-Taker in Ranji Trophy: R Vinaykumar (Karnataka). Madhavrao Scindia Award Highest Wicket-Taker in Ranji Trophy: Shardul Thakur (Mumbai). A. Chidambaram Trophy Best Under-23 Cricketer: Almas Shaukat (Uttar Pradesh). A. Chidambaram Trophy Best Under-19 Cricketer: Anmolpreet Singh (Punjab). A. Chidambaram Trophy Best Under-16 Cricketer: Shubman Gill (Punjab). A. Chidambaram Trophy Best Woman Cricketer (Sr): Mithali Raj (Indian Railways). A. Chidambaram Trophy Best Woman Cricketer (Jr): Devika Vaidya (Maharashtra). Best Umpire In Domestic Cricket: O Nandan Best Overall Performance: Karnataka State Cricket Association.

11. The Union Cabinet has given its approval to sign Memoranda of Understanding (MOU) on the Conservation of Migratory Birds of Prey in Africa and Eurasia. This MoU is also called as the ‘Raptor MoU’ under the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS). With signing it, India will become the 54th signatory to the MoU. About Raptor MoU It is an agreement under Article IV paragraph 4 of the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) and is not legally binding on signatory parties. The MoU seeks willingness of the signatory states for working for conservation of the raptor species and their habitats. The Raptors MoU extends its coverage to 76 species of birds of prey out and an action plan has been formulated that envisages the conservation action for Raptor species. Of the total 76 species of birds that fall in Raptor MoU, 46 species occur in India including vultures, falcons, eagles, owls, hawks, kites, harriers, etc. Benefits of singing ‘Raptor MoU’ Help India to gain knowledge in effectively managing the habitats of to 76 species of birds under ambit of it. It is also in conformity with the provisions of Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972 wherein the birds have been accorded protection in India. Concert trans-boundary efforts for conservation of migratory birds through interaction with other signatory countries of the MoU with the CMS. Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) The CMS (also known as Bonn Convention) under the aegis of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) aims to conserve migratory species throughout their range. India had become a party to the CMS since 1st November 1983. Pakistan and Nepal are the Indian neighbours who are signatories to this MoU.

12. The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the India-Australia Civil Nuclear Cooperation deal that came into force on November 13, 2015. The deal along with the administrative arrangement for implementing the accord will bolster India’s energy security by supporting the expansion of nuclear power in the country. Background India and Australia had started talks on the Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement in 2012 after Australia had lifted the long-standing ban on selling uranium to energy-starved India. The cooperation agreement was signed between two countries in September 2014 to sell uranium as a nuclear fuel for peaceful power generation. India-Australia Nuclear Cooperation deal follows similar agreements signed by India with the US and France after western sanctions were lifted in 2008. Currently, India has nuclear energy agreements with 11 countries and imports uranium from France, Russia, Kazakhstan and Canada (since December 2015). Australia has about 40 per cent of the world’s uranium reserves and annually exports nearly 7,000 tonnes of nuclear fuel. It is third largest uranium producing country after Kazakhstan and Canada. Nuclear Energy in India Presently, nuclear energy just contributes 3 per cent of electricity generation in India. The energy starved country has less than two dozen small reactors at six sites with a capacity of 4,780 MW of its total power capacity. India is seeking to diversify its electricity generation and is planning to increase its nuclear capacity to 63,000 MW by 2032 by adding nearly 30 new reactors. Comment With this, India became India the first country to buy Uranium from Australia without being a signatory to the Nuclear Non-proliferation Treaty (NPT). It also marks India’s step toward achieving international acceptability for its nuclear programme despite not ratifying the NPT.

13. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved introduction of Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS) for technology upgradation of the textiles industry. Decision in this regard was taken by CCEA meeting chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The ATUFS replaces existing Revised Restructured Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (RR-TUFS) to give a boost to textile sector under Make in India campaign. ATUFS targets Employment generation (including women) and global export by encouraging garment and apparel industry. Promote Technical Textiles which is a sunrise sector for export and employment creation. Improvement in quality and productivity by promoting conversion of existing looms to better technology looms. Encourage better quality in textile processing industry and keep check on import of fabrics by the garment sector. Two broad categories of ATUFS Apparel, Garment and Technical Textiles sectors would be provided on capital investment with fifteen per cent subsidy. However, it will be subject to a ceiling of Rs. 30 crore for entrepreneurs over a period of five years. Remaining sub-sectors of textile sectors would be provided subsidy at a rate of 10 percent. However, it would be subject to a ceiling of Rs.20 crore. The amended scheme would attract investment to the tune of one lakh crore rupees in textile sector and create over 30 lakh jobs. A budgetary provision of Rs.17,822 crore has been approved of which Rs. 12,671 crore is for committed liabilities under the ongoing RR-TUFS scheme and Rs. 5,151 crore is for new cases under ATUFS. About Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme TUFS was introduced by the Union Government in 1999 to facilitate new technology for making the Indian textile industry globally competitive and to reduce the capital cost for the textile industry. The scheme was earlier amended for continuation during the 12th Five year Plan into Revised Restructured Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme .

14. The Union Cabinet has approved the construction of 69 Bridges including Approach Roads on the Tamu-Kyigone-Kalewa (TKK) road section of the Trilateral Highway in Myanmar. Decision in this regard was taken by Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. These bridges will be constructed at a cost of Rs.371.58 crore and shall impart all weather usability to the TKK road section. Key facts TKK road section seeks to improve connectivity between India and Myanmar and facilitate movement of goods and traffic. The project will be implemented in Engineering Procuring and Construction (EPC) mode through Project Management Consultant (PMC). It will be closely monitored by the Indian Embassy in Yangon, PMC and the Union Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The project is envisaged to be completed by mid-2019 and is also part of the route for the proposed Imphal-Mandalay bus service. Background Union Government had agreed to undertake construction of 71 bridges on the TKK road section of the Trilateral Highway at the request of Government of Myanmar during the visit of then Prime Minister Manmohan Singh to Myanmar in May 2012. Myanmar Government had started work on constructing two bridges on its own as these bridges needed urgent attention. The balance of constructing remaining 69 bridges will be undertaken by Indian Government.

15. Union Government has unveiled National Biotechnology Development Strategy (NBDS) 2015-2020 to establish India as a world-class bio-manufacturing hub. It was unveiled by the Union Science and Technology Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan in New Delhi. Key facts NBDS intends to launch a major mission under the Make in India programme backed with significant investments for the creation of new biotech products. It also seeks to create a strong infrastructure for Research and Development and commercialization and also empower India’s human resources scientifically and technologically. The key elements of the Strategy are building a skilled workforce and enhance research opportunities in basic, disciplinary and inter-disciplinary sciences. Its major component will be training of work force and this includes dual degree programmes which will cover both the aspect of core science and business applicability. It will also focus on enhancing research opportunities in basic, disciplinary and inter-disciplinary sciences and also foster global and national alliances.

16. State-run Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has commissioned a 660 MW unit of Prayagraj Super Thermal Power Project at Bara town in Allahabad district of Uttar Pradesh. This is the first supercritical thermal unit to be commissioned in the state to achieve capacity addition on attaining full load. It is Greenfield thermal power project is owned by Prayagraj Power Generation Company Limited (PPGCL), a subsidiary company of Jaiprakash Power Ventures Limited. Super-critical units are generally eco-friendly and more efficient thermal power plants as they consume less coal as fuel. About Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) BHEL is a power plant equipment manufacturer completely owned by Union Government. It is largest engineering and manufacturing company of its kind in India. It was established in 1964 and was awarded a Maharatna Company status in 2013.

17. India and Israel jointly developed Long Range Surface to Air Missile (LRSAM) Barak 8 was successfully test fired from INS Kolkata. The firing trial of the LR SAM has been jointly carried out by the Indian Navy, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel Aerospace Industries. This successful test marks a significant milestone in enhancing Indian Navy’s Anti Air Warfare capability and also India-Israel relations. About Barak 8 missile LRSAM Barak 8 missile in Hebrew language means Lightning. It is an advanced, long-range missile defence and air defence system. Its main features are long range, active radar seeker missile, vertical launch and multiple simultaneous engagements. For the LRSAM, DRDO has developed dual pulse propulsion system along with other safety arm mechanisms for Solid Propulsion system. The LRSAM programme consists of Missiles, Weapon Control System, MFSTAR (Radar), Vertical Launcher unit and two- way data link. It is capable to counter a wide variety of air-borne threats such as anti-ship missiles, aircraft, UAVs and drones as well as supersonic cruise missiles. Barak 8 missiles will be incorporated onboard of the Kolkata Class Destroyers and also on all future major warships of the Indian Navy. This missile along with the Multi-Functional Surveillance and Threat Alert Radar (MF STAR) would provide these ships the capability to neutralize aerial threats at extended ranges.

18. Eminent Marathi poet Mangesh Padgaonkar passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra on after a brief illness. He was 86. He was iconic Marathi poet best known for many poetry recitation programmes and for writing lyrics for many Marathi films.

19. China has successfully launched its most sophisticated observation satellite Gaofen-4, as part of the country’s high-definition (HD) earth observation Gaofen project. It was launched aboard a Long March-3B carrier rocket from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre in the southwestern province of Sichuan. It was the 222th space flight of the Long March rocket series and China’s 19th space mission in year 2015. About Gaofen-4 Satellite Gaofen-4 is China’s first geosynchronous orbit high-definition optical imaging satellite and world’s most sophisticated HD geosynchronous orbit remote sensing satellite. It is located at the orbit 36,000 km away from the earth and moves synchronously with the earth. It will be used for surveillance of geological disasters and forest disasters, disaster prevention and relief and meteorological forecast. About Gaofen project It is an ambitious space project of China that aims to launch seven high-definition observation satellites before 2020. Gaofen-1 was the first satellite of the project series which was launched in April 2013. Presently, Gaofen-1 and Gaofen-2 satellites part of Gaofen project series are orbiting around the earth at low orbits around 600-700km.

20. World Health Organization (WHO), a UN health agency has declared Guinea Ebola-free after no new cases were reported. Now the country enters into 90-day period of heightened surveillance of WHO. In Guinea, the deadly disease had killed more than 2,500 people and had completely shattered country’s economy and country’s health and education sectors.

21. Haryana Government has decided to fix a minimum educational qualification for aspirant of contesting urban local bodies (ULB) elections in the state on the lines of panchayat polls. Decision in this regard was taken by state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar in Chandigarh. Proposed qualification Minimum educational qualification for male candidates would be matriculation while for females it would be middle pass. Male belonging to scheduled caste should be middle pass and in case of women belonging to scheduled caste must be primary pass. Candidates should have functional toilet at home and they should not be defaulter of cooperative bank loans and electricity department. In this regard, state legislature is going to amend section 13 A of Haryana Municipal Act, 1973 and section 8 of Haryana Municipal Corporation Act, 1994. Earlier government has amended the Panchayati Raj Act to set minimum educational qualification for candidates to contest panchayat polls. The decision was challenged in the Supreme Court, but the apex court had pronounced decision in favour of State government.

22. Russia’s Rostech State Corporation has signed one billion US dollar deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to manufacture 200 Kamov 226T light helicopters. These helicopters will be manufactured under make in India initiative and shall replace the ageing fleet of Cheetah and Chetak helicopters. This is the first Russian-Indian high-tech project implemented by the Indian government within the framework of the ‘Make in India’ programme with the help of Russia. Under this manufacturing deal Rostech State Corporation will organize in India the production of Russian Ka-226T and its modifications in around 200 units. It will also carry out maintenance, operation and repair of helicopters. This deal comes after an agreement was signed between the two countries on cooperation in the field of helicopter manufacturing during recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Russia. Kamov 226T light helicopters will be mainly used to move troops and equipment to high-altitude locations like Siachen. This work was earlier carried by outdated fleet of Cheetah and Chetak choppers which had claimed a number of lives in mishaps.

23. Giorgi Kvirikashvili has been elected as the 12th Prime Minister of Georgia by the Parliament of the country. He was elected by the Parliament after then Prime Minister Irakli Garibashvili had resigned from the post on December 29, 2015 without explaining his decision. The new government under the leadership of Giorgi Kvirikashvili was approved by Georgia’s Parliament by 86 votes to 28 against it. Now President Giorgi Margvelashvili will officially ratify this decision. Prior to becoming Prime Minister, Giorgi Kvirikashvili had served as Georgia’s Vice Prime Minister since July 2013 and Minister of Foreign Affairs since September 2015. He was also Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development from October 2012 till September 2015. Kvirikashvili’s new government has pledged to push ahead the ruling Georgian Dream coalition’s policy of seeking closer ties with the West by endorsing its full membership in the European Union (EU) and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and pursuing a pragmatic and peaceful policy towards Russia which was shattered by a brief 2008 war.

24. Eminent Gujarati litterateur Raghuveer Chaudhary has been selected for the 51st Jnanpith award. Mr. Chaudhary is the fourth Gujarati litterateur to bag this prestigious award after Uma Shankar Joshi (1967), Pannalal Patel (1985) and Rajendra Shah (2001).
About Jnanpith Award Jnanpith Award is one of the prestigious literary awards in country and its name has been taken from Sanskrit words Jnana and Pitha which means knowledge-seat. It was instituted in 1961 and is presented annually by Bharatiya Jnanpith trust founded by the Sahu Shanti Prasad Jain family that owns the Times of India newspaper group. It is bestowed upon any Indian citizen who writes in any 22 official languages of India mentioned in VIII Schedule of Constitution of India. Prior to 1982, the award was only given for a single work by a writer. But after 1982, the award is given for lifetime contribution to Indian literature. Award Carries: Includes cash prize of 11 lakh rupees, a citation plaque and a bronze replica of Saraswati.

25. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has released the Report on Medium-term Path on Financial Inclusion submitted by 14-member committee headed by RBI Executive Director Deepak Mohanty. RBI had constituted the committee in July 2015 to examine the existing policy regarding financial inclusion and the form a five-year (medium term) action plan. It was tasked to suggest plan on several components with regard to payments, deposits, credit, social security transfers, pension and insurance. Key recommendations Augment the government social cash transfer in order to increase the personal disposable income of the poor. It would put the economy on a medium-term sustainable inclusion path. Sukanya Shiksha Scheme: Banks should make special efforts to step up account opening for females belonging to lower income group under this scheme for social cash transfer as a welfare measure. Aadhaar linked credit account: Aadhaar should be linked to each individual credit account as a unique biometric identifier which can be shared with Credit information bureau to enhance the stability of the credit system and improve access. Mobile Technology: Bank’s traditional business model should be changed with greater reliance on mobile technology to improve ‘last mile’ service delivery. Digitisation of land records: It should be implemented in order to increase formal credit supply to all agrarian segments through Aadhaar-linked mechanism for Credit Eligibility Certificates (CEC). Nurturing self-help groups (SHGs): Corporates should be encouraged to nurture SHGs as part of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiative. Subsidies: Government should replace current agricultural input subsidies on fertilizers, irrigation and power by a direct income transfer scheme as a part of second generation reforms. Agricultural interest subvention Scheme: It should be phased out. Crop Insurance: Government should introduce universal crop insurance scheme covering all crops starting with small and marginal farmers with monetary ceiling of Rs. 2 lakhs. Multiple Guarantee Agencies: Should be encouraged to provide credit guarantees in niche areas for micro and small enterprises (MSEs). It would also explore possibilities for counter guarantee and re-insurance. Unique identification of MSME: It should be introduced for all MSME borrowers and information from it should be shared with credit bureaus.

26. Gujarat has won the 14th season of prestigious Vijay Hazare Cricket Trophy for season 2015–16 for first time in its history of championship. In the final match played at M Chinnaswamy Stadium, Bengaluru (Karnataka) they defeated Delhi by 139 runs. About Vijay Hazare Trophy It is annual limited-overs cricket domestic competition started in 2002–03 and is played among state teams from the Ranji Trophy plates. The trophy is also known as the Ranji One Day Trophy and is named after the famous Indian cricketer Vijay Hazare. Tamil Nadu has won the trophy for record 4 times i.e. in seasons 2002–03, 2004–05, 2008–09 and 2009–10.

27. Reliance Jio has launched 4G (4th Generation) telecom service using LTE (Long Term Evolution) Technology. The service was launched by company’s Chairman Mukesh Ambani on the 83rd birth anniversary of Dhirubhai Ambani, founder of the Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) in Navy Mumbai, Maharashtra. This initial phase of 4G service was launched for limited to 85000 employees and their families of the company. However the commercial services to begin by April 2016 throughout country. Features The Jio 4G Service has three-pronged features focusing on broadband networks, affordable smart phones and the availability of rich content and applications. It seeks to provide unique combination of high speed data up to 1 gigabyte per second (Gbps), telecom, media, digital commerce and payment services. India’s 4G profile With this launch Reliance Jio became fourth telecom service provider in India to launch 4G service. Sunil Bharti Mittal led Airtel was first telecom service provider in the country to launch 4G service using LTE Technology in Kolkata in 2012. It was followed by Aircel in July 2014 (in 4 circles Andhra Pradesh, Assam, Bihar and Odisha) and Vodafone India on 8th December 2015 in Kochi, Kerala. About 4G 4G LTE is wireless communications standard developed by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project (3GPP). Standards: 4G LTE is one of several competing 4G standards along with WiMax (IEEE 802.16) and Ultra Mobile Broadband (UMB). Presently two standards are commercially used world-wide viz. LTE and Mobile WiMax standard. WiMax standard was first commercially in South Korea in 2007 and LTE standard was first used in Norway and Sweden in 2009. Speed: Designed to provide up to 10x speeds of 3G networks for mobile devices such as tablets, smartphones, netbooks and wireless hotspots etc. It can provide internet speed of at least 100 Mbit per second (Mbps) to 1 Gbps. Services: 4G technologies are designed to provide IP (Internet Protocol)-based voice, data and multimedia streaming at high speed.

28. Union Government has announced to link LPG subsidy to income of consumers in order to ensure that the subsidy benefits go to the targeted group. Henceforth, the LPG subsidy will not be available to LPG consumers if the consumer or his/her spouse has taxable income of more than ten lakh rupees. This income would be as per the previous financial year computed under Income Tax Act, 1961. This decision will be given effect to initially on self-declaration basis of LPG consumers while booking cylinders January 2016. This move will affect at least 60 lakh LPG consumers of the total 16.5 crore LPG consumers in the country and Government will save upto Rs. 113 crore from this decision. Background Earlier under the ‘Give it Up’ campaign many LPG consumers had given up their subsidy voluntarily but Government felt that consumers in the higher income bracket should get LPG cylinders at the market price. So far, 57.50 lakh LPG consumers have opted out of LPG subsidy voluntarily under the campaign that aims to ensure that the subsidy benefits go to the targeted group.

29. Andhra Pradesh Government has signed a Memorandum of understanding (MoU) with tech giant Microsoft India on various technology initiatives for governance. The MoU was signed after a meeting between the Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Microsoft’s CEO Satya Nadella in Hyderabad, Telangana. The technology provided by the Microsoft would be utilized by state government to check school dropouts, improve agricultural productivity and providing better citizen services.

30. Legendary American cinematographer Haskell Wexler passed away on 27th December 2015 in California, US. He was 93. He was best known for his work in films like “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” and “American Graffiti” and was one of the film history’s most influential cinematographers.

31. The Union Civil Aviation Ministry has given clearance for four greenfield airports in two states. Of the total four approved greenfield airports, three will be in Andhra Pradesh and one at international airport at Dholera in Gujarat. Key facts In Andhra Pradesh greenfield airport will be developed at Nellore and Kurnool districts of under a public-private partnership. These two of the three airports proposed at Andhra Pradesh are likely to be no-frills one. Ministry also has given site clearance for the Bhogapuram airport in Andhra Pradesh which is about 40 km from Visakhapatnam (Vizag). The international airport at Dholera in Ahmedabad is expected to reduce the air traffic load at the existing Ahmedabad airport. Earlier Union Environment Ministry had given the environmental clearance to 1,378 crore rupees Dholera airport project. Greenfield Airport: It is a new airport which is constructed on an undeveloped site. It is built from scratch on a new location because the existing airport is unable to meet the traffic requirements. Brownfield projects: These projects are usually undertaken to modify or upgraded from existing facilities.

32. Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has introduced e-office, an initiative which will help provide efficient services to the people by digitizing more than 12,000 files. It was formally launched by WCD Minister Maneka Sanjay Gandhi in New Delhi on the lines with the spirit of Good Governance initiative of Union Government.

33. India has emphasised to Iran for early completion of all necessary procedures for its participation in the Farzad-B gas field worth 5 billion US dollars. India’s request was forwarded by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj to Iranian Minister for Economic Affairs and Finance Ali Taiebnia in the Joint Commission Meeting. Discussions in Joint Commission Meeting Both counties also reviewed the progress in trade and economic cooperation and a number of related matters,and discussed the possibilities in cooperation in Railways among other areas. Iranian side suggested participation of India’s public and private sectors in development of Chabahar Port and Chabahar Free Trade Zone (FTZ) and in setting up industrial units in it. While India mentioned that Chabahar port will facilitate linking Afghanistan and Central Asia with India which will result in enhanced trade and commerce. India considers Iran as an important partner and expressed satisfaction at the growing bilateral interaction in diverse area including energy, shipping, ports and railways. Background Joint Commission Meeting between both countries comes after Prime Minister Narendra Modi reiterated keen desire to expand economic cooperation with Iran after meeting Iranian President Hassan Rouhani on the sidelines of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Ufa (Russia) in July 2015. Both the nations also had inked a pact to develop the Chabahar port earlier in May 2015 after Union Road Transport and Highways Minister Nitin Gadkari had visited Iran.

34. Senior IAS officer Amitabh Kant has been given additional charge as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog. Decision in this regard was taken by Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) headed by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Mr. Kant’s appointment comes after incumbent NITI Aayog CEO Sindhushree Khullar’s extended tenure is coming on 31st December 2015. Amitabh Kant is IAS officer of 1980 Batch of Kerala Cadre. Presently, he is serving as Secretary, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) and is expected to retire in March 2016. About NITI Aayog Union Government had replaced erstwhile six decade old Planning Commission with a new institution named National Institution for Transforming India (NITI Aayog) on 1 January 2015. This new institution aims to serve as Think Tank of the Government. Noted Economist Arvind Panagariya was appointed Vice Chairman of the NITI Aayog. Economist Bibek Debroy and former DRDO chief V K Saraswat were appointed as full-time members.

35. China has officially abandoned its One Child Policy amid deepening demographic crisis of shrinking workforce and aging population in the world’s second largest economy. In this regard 159-member National People’s Congress Standing Committee, the top organ of China’s Parliament has passed revised Law on Population and Family Planning. The new law allows couples to have two children from January 1, 2016 and marks the ending its over three decades old One Child Policy. China’s One Child Policy This forced policy was introduced in 1978 and was implemented since 1980 in order to curb the population and limit demands for water and other resources. Its main aim was to rein in population growth in order to alleviate social, economic and environmental problems in China. The controversial policy had restricted most of Chinese couples to only a single offspring and prevented over 400 million births in over 3 decade span. Internationally it was criticized because it involved serious human rights violations including forced abortions and also was debated it has resulted in China’s economic boom. Comment The new law was adopted as part of China’s efforts to relax the family planning laws in a response to an ageing population and to manage the demography of the country. This decision aims to help China to reduce its gender imbalance as the One Child Policy had caused a dramatic gender imbalance due to forced sterilizations, infanticide and sex-selective abortions.

36. Scientist from Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) recently have successfully tested crucial anti-jamming capability of the Astra missile. During the trials missiles ECCM (electronic counter-counter measure) features to overcome any jamming was successfully evaluated. This test was conducted after the missile’s RF seeker and other electronic components were sought to be jammed in the earlier trials. With some more trials to be carried in future including air launch trial with a warhead, the missile will be inducted into the Indian Air Force (IAF) in 2015.

37. China’s Parliament has adopted the country’s first law against domestic violence that prohibits any form of domestic violence, including psychological abuse. The legislation was approved at the end of a week-long bimonthly session of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, the top organ of China’s parliament. Key facts The law aims at bringing traditionally silent abuse victims, including couples who are in live-in relationship under legal protection. It prohibits any form of domestic violence in China and formally defines domestic violence. It streamlines the process for obtaining restraining orders including measures long advocated by anti-domestic abuse groups. Under this bill, victims and those in immediate danger of domestic violence can file for a personal protection order that must be granted by court or denies within 72 hours. In urgent cases, the court must take decisions must within 24 hours. The order granted by court may prohibit the abuser from harassing, stalking or contacting the applicant and his or her close relatives. For violation of protection order, the abuser may be fined up to 1,000 yuan and detained for up to 15 days or face criminal charges in serious offences.

38. Renowned American science-fiction writer George Clayton Johnson passed away in Los Angeles, US. He was 86. He was best known for dystopian novel Logan’s Run, which adapted into a 1976 film starring Michael York and was nominated for two Oscars.

39. China’s National People’s Congress Standing Committee, the top organ of China’s parliament has adopted the country’s first counter-terrorism law. The legislation was approved with large majority at the end of a week-long bimonthly session China’s National People’s Congress Standing Committee. Key facts The law expanded the definition of the term terrorism and is the latest attempt of China to address terrorism at home and help maintain world security. The law grants overarching powers to security agencies and also allows the military to venture overseas on counter-terror operations. Under the new law a separate clause makes terrorism a crime including fabricating it and disseminating information on fabricated terrorist incidents. The law allows news media only to report on the personal details of on-scene workers, hostages or authorities’ response to terrorist activities and it will require approval from counter-terrorism authorities. It is mandatory for technology firms to give sensitive data like encryption keys to the government when asked for under this law.

40. State-run Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) has emerged as the country’s biggest company in terms of annual revenue as per an annual list of 2015 Fortune 500 companies in India. IOC topped the list for consecutive sixth year with annual revenue of Rs. 4,51,911 crore. IOC was followed by Mukesh Ambani-led private sector Reliance Industries at the second place with a revenue of Rs. 3,82,565 crore. Top ten companies are Indian Oil Corp (IOC):4,51,911 crore annual revenue. Reliance Industries: Rs 3,82,565 crore annual revenue. Tata Motors: Rs 2,67,025 crore annual revenue. It has jumped to third slot from fifth place in 2014. State Bank of India (SBI): Rs 2,57,289 crore annual revenue. It was ranked sixth in 2014. Bharat Petroleum (BPCL): Rs 2,40,367 crore annual revenue. In 2014, it was placed at the third spot. Hindustan Petroleum: Rs 2,13,380 crore annual revenue. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC): Rs 1,65,161 crore annual revenue. Tata Steel: Rs 1,41,669 crore annual revenue. Hindalco Industries: Rs 1,06,897 crore annual revenue. Tata Consultancy Services (TCS): Rs 98,368 crore annual revenue. Key facts This year’s list of the country’s 500 largest corporations was compiled by the global business magazine Fortune’s Indian edition. Total revenue of all firms has grown a mere 2.7 per cent and profits fell by 5.9 per cent compared with 2014. In this edition of list there are as many as five energy companies in the top 10. Besides, there are a total of five state-run companies in the top-ten.

41. IT major Tech Mahindra has launched first of its kind ‘Tap N Pay’ contactless digital payment wallet MoboMoney for the Indian masses. MoboMoney has been billed as India’s first commercial NFC ecosystem rollout that would allow consumers to convert cash into e-cash for making payments.

42. Veteran Bollywood actress Sadhna Shivdasani (mononymously known as Sadhana) passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra. She was 74. She was renowned for his style statement and acting prowess in Bollywood in the 1960s and 70s.

43. Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the new building of Afghanistan Parliament in the capital city Kabul built by India. It was inaugurated during Narendra Modi’s first official visit to Afghanistan after becoming Prime Minister. He also named one block of Parliament as Atal Block after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. Prime Minister also handed over 4 Mi-25 attack helicopters to Afghanistan Air Force symbolising a shift in India’s position on supplying ‘offensive’ equipment. Afghanistan parliament building was constructed by India at a cost of US 90 million dollars as a symbol of India’s support to Afghanistan’s democracy and civil reconstruction. The construction of Parliament building was started in 2009 and it had missed its completion deadlines at least 3 times since 2011. This project along with $300 million Salma dam project (called the India-Afghanistan friendship dam) in Heart province has generated much goodwill for India.

44.Seychelles government allowed India to build its first Naval Base on the Assumption Island in the Indian Ocean region (IOR) as a joint project between both countries. In this regard, Seychelles government has allocated a plot of land on in its Assumption Island which will help to enhance mutual security along our western seaboard in IOR. India’s first Naval Base project has acquired significance following China acquiring its first African naval base in Djibouti (near Horn of Africa) in November 2014. Significance On completion, the naval base would be used by the defence forces both countries. It would help India to exercise greater control over the strategic western region of IOR to the piracy-prone eastern African coastline that commands vital energy (oil) sea transport lines. This naval base will be staging posts for a large maritime security network that India is setting up with the help of the various IOR partner countries. Other developments From March 2016, India is also set to acquire a fully operational coastal radar system (CRS) in Seychelles. It would further enhance India’s ability to gather intelligence and assist in surveillance operations in IOR especially vital energy lanes near Seychelles. India is also steadily increasing its maritime and security cooperation with Seychelles. It is also providing new patrol vessels to Seychelles in mid-January 2016. Security operation in the IOR also has helped Seychelles to secure itself in the Contact Group for Piracy off the Coast of Somalia (CGPCS), which will hold its first meeting in Mumbai (Maharashtra) in January, 2016.

45.India and Russia have inked 16 cooperation agreements to expand cooperation in various sectors to give a major push to their strategic ties. These agreements were signed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two days official visit to Russia. The agreements were signed in the nuclear energy, hydrocarbons, solar energy, railways and visas sectors. Some of the signed agreements are Agreement on Cooperation in the field of Helicopter Engineering: It includes joint manufacture of Kamov 226 helicopters on the lines of Make in India campaign. Programme of Action Agreed Between for Localization of Manufacturing in India for Russian-Designed Nuclear Reactor Units: It would felicitate construction of 12 atomic plants with involvement of local companies in India under the ‘Make-in-India’ programme. The cooperation in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy is a cornerstone of the Russia-India strategic partnership. Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on technical cooperation in railway sector MoU for construction of solar energy plants in India: It was signed between Solar Energy Corporation of India and Russian Energy Agency regarding. MoU for Cooperation for geologic survey, exploration and production of hydrocarbons onshore and on the continental shelf of the Russian Federation. Similar agreement was also signed between Rosneft Oil Company of Russia and Oil India Limited and Indian Oil Corporation Limited. Apart from this, extensive talks between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi emphasized the need for the world to unite against terrorism without distinction and discrimination between terrorist groups. Russia conveyed its strong support to India’s bid for permanent membership of the United Nations Security Council (UNSC).

46. North India’s first cable-stayed bridge named Atal Setu was inaugurated on Dunera-Basohli-Bhadharwah road in Basohali town in Kathua district of Jammu and Kashmir. It was inaugurated by Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar along with Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh and Army Chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag. About Basohli Cable-Stayed Bridge Basohli Cable-Stayed Bridge is 592-metre long and has been constructed over Ravi River on Dunera- Basohli-Bhadharwah road. The work of bridge started in September 2011. It has been constructed by Border Roads Organization (BRO) at a cost of Rs 145 crore. It is a joint venture (JV) of Indian Railway Construction Company Limited (IRCON) and SP Singla Construction group. It will provide close connectivity among the three states of Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh and Punjab. It would boost connectivity and tourism among the three states. The bridge is strategically important from the defence point of view as well. It is fourth of its kind in the country and first in North India and Jammu and Kashmir. Other three major cable-stayed bridges in the country are: (i) Vidyasagar Setu – Over the Hoogly River in Kolkata (West Bengal). (ii) Bandra-Worli Sea Link (Rajiv Gandhi Sea Link) – Mumbai (Maharashtra). (iii) New Yamuna Bridge- Over Yamuna River in Allahabad (Uttar Pradeh).

47. Australian cricketer Steve Smith has been named Cricketer of the Year for 2015 at the International Cricket Council (ICC) Awards ceremony in Dubai. With this, Smith became the 4th Australian and 11th overall player to win the prestigious award named after Sir Garfield Sobers. He was also adjudged the Test Cricketer of the Year for 2015.

48. India’s former wicket-keeper batsman Syed Kirmani has been nominated for prestigious BCCI-instituted Col. C.K. Nayudu Lifetime Achievement Award 2015. He was conferred with the award for his contribution to Indian cricket. He was a member of the Indian team that won the World Cup in 1983 for the first time. Background Syed Kirmani was selected for this prestigious award by the Awards Committee of BCCI consisting of BCCI President Shashank Manohar, Secretary Anurag Thakur and N Ram, former Editor-in-chief of The Hindu Group.

49. In India, National Good Governance Day is being observed every year on 25th December on the birth anniversary of former Prime Minister and Bharat Ratna recipient Atal Bihari Vajpayee. In order to mark the occasion of this day on the 91st birth anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee several programmes were organized nationwide and new initiatives were announced. It should be noted that this day is also being observed as Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) Divas. Background Earlier in December 2014, Union Government had announced that National ‘Good Governance Day’ will be observed on the birthday of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee i.e. 25th December each year. It was announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the BJP Parliamentary Board meeting held New Delhi.

50. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has adopted a resolution to designate 5th November every year as World Tsunami Awareness Day. The observance of the day would help to spread awareness among people across the world in matters related to the dangers of tsunami and shall stress on the importance of early warning systems in order to mitigate damage from the devastating natural calamity. The proposal in this regard was first mooted by the Government of Japan after the 3rd UN Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction held in Sendai (Japan) in March 2015. Significance of the Day: November 5 has been selected by UNGA to coincide with the annual anniversary of the 1854 Inamura-no-hi or “Fire of Inamura” event. On this day of that year a Japanese villager through his quick action saved countless lives when he set fire to sheaves of rice, thus warning people of the imminent danger of a tsunami. Note: The International Day for Disaster Reduction has been observed annually on October 13 to highlight tsunami. Some facts Japan had suffered heavy losses as a result of tsunamis in the past and the most recently Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami on 11 March 2011. It had claimed over 15,000 lives and also had disrupted the nuclear power industry and left many thousands homeless. While on 26 December 2004 i.e. on Boxing Day, the Indian Ocean tsunami had claimed arounf 230000 lives. The devastating tsunami was formed due to earthquake with its epicenter off the west coast of Sumatra, Indonesia. It had affected lives and the natural environment in six countries in the region including India, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Somalia and Thailand.

51. Delhi government has released a detailed blueprint for its ambitious Odd-Even formula for road-rationing plan to check pollution in the national capital. The Odd-Even formula plan seeks to curb the number of vehicles plying in the national capital by limiting four-wheelers on alternate days.

52. India’s first indigenously designed warship INS Godavari has been decommissioned after 32 years of service. It was decommissioned at Naval Dockyard in Mumbai (Maharashtra) after it completed its full life cycle, meeting all responsibilities and duties assigned in 3 decades of service. After decommissioning, the ship would be used as a target to practice missile firing for final burial at sea.

53. Indian American professor Dr. Rakesh K. Jain has been selected for 2015 National Medal of Science of the United States. He will be presented this top award along with 16 other winners by President Barack Obama at a White House ceremony in January 2016. All of them were chosen for this award for their individual achievement and leadership in advancing the fields of science and technology

54. Indian Navy has conducted a large scale Fleet exercise on the eastern seaboard to maintain high levels of combat readiness and counter emerging threats. The exercises were conducted across a vast geographical area on the eastern seaboard extending from Northern Bay of Bengal to Andaman Sea.

55. Union Government has adopted the strategy of developing integrated industrial/economic corridors across the country in partnership with respective State Governments for boosting industrial development. This information was given by the Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) in the Ministry of Commerce & Industry Nirmala Sitharaman in a written reply in Rajya Sabha. It was also announced that National Industrial Corridor Development Authority (NICDA) with its headquarter in Pune (Maharashtra) has not been constituted yet. The five industrial/economic corridors are Delhi Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC): The project spans the 6 states viz. Maharashtra, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh. This corridor lies along the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor (DFC) of the railways. It would initially have 8 nodes (cities) in the six DMIC states for development purpose. Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC): It has three industrial nodes (cities) viz. Ponneri (Tamil Nadu), Tumkur (Karnataka) and Krishnapatnam (Andhra Pradesh). Bengaluru-Mumbai Economic Corridor (BMEC): One node (city) has been identified for master planning viz. Dharwad (Karnataka). Vizag-Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC): Two nodes (cities) for master planning have been identified. They are Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh) and Srikalahasti-Yerpedu (Andhra Pradesh). Amritsar-Kolkata Industrial Corridor (AKIC): Feasibility study with respect to the Inception Report of this corridor has been completed.

56. Union Government has launched two mobile applications namely Crop Insurance and AgriMarket Mobile to benefit farmers These apps were launched by Union Agriculture & Farmers Welfare Minister Radha Mohan Singh in New Delhi to celebrate the birth anniversary of former Prime Ministers Choudhary Charan Singh and Atal Bihari Vajpayee.

57.In India, 24th December is being observed as National Consumer Day. On this day the Consumer Protection Act, 1986 had received the assent of the President.