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1. Australian all-rounder Shane Watson (34) has declared his retirement from all forms of International Cricket after the end of his team’s campaign in the ongoing ICC World Twenty20. He made this announcement at I S Bindra Stadium in Mohali, Punjab. Earlier in 2015, he had announced his retirement from Test cricket at the end of 2015 Ashes tour of England.

2. The Dutch football legend and coach Johan Cruyff passed away after a long battle with lung cancer in Barcelona, Italy. He was 68. Cruyff was one of the most famous exponents of the football philosophy known as Total Football. He is widely regarded to be one of the greatest players in football history.

3. A group of influential US lawmakers have introduced a Bull in the Congress asking the US President Barack Obama administration to help India join the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC). The legislation has been introduced by Matt Salmon, Chairman of the House Sub-committee on Asia and the Pacific. As per legislation India’s membership to the APEC would provide it a constructive forum to glean insight from other Asian countries that have already taken significant steps to advance their economies. Indian Government is striving for major economic reforms to open India’s markets, improve trade volume, and facilitate his growing population’s need for continued job growth. US-India partnership is vital to the US strategic interests in the Asia-Pacific region and across the globe. Economically prosperous India benefits the US’ strategic goals in Asia. About Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) APEC is regional economic forum comprising of 21 member countries accounting nearly half of the world’s trade and about 57 per cent of global gross domestic product (GDP). It was established in 1989 in order to leverage the growing interdependence of Asia-Pacific region’s economies and promote free trade in the region. Headquarters: Singapore. 21 Members are: Australia, Brunei Darussalam, Canada, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, Malaysia, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, United States, Taiwan, Hong Kong, China, Mexico, Papua New Guinea, Chile, Peru, Russian and Vietnam. India’s Position: India is having observer of APEC since 2011 and has applied for membership. However some countries have objected to granting membership to India as it does not border the Pacific Ocean, which all current members do.

4. The Union Commerce and Industry Ministry has notified foreign direct investment (FDI) upto 49% in insurance and pension sector will be under automatic route. In this regard, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) has issued official notification to liberalise its FDI policy in insurance and pension sector. However, FDI above 49% will be subject to approval of the Foreign Investment Promotion Board (FIPB). Prior to this, only up to 26% FDI was permitted through the automatic approval route in insurance and pension sector. Union Government in 2015 had increased the FDI cap in insurance and pension sector to 49% from 26%, respectively. But it was subject to the condition that ownership and control remains with the Indian promoter at all times. Thus, existing guidelines on Indian management and control will have to be verified by the respective regulators, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) and Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA). Presently there are 52 insurance companies operating in India, of which 28 are in general insurance and 24 are in life insurance business. FDI into the country has grown by record 40% to $29.44 billion during April-December 2015.

5. A Congressional resolution aiming to bring India on a par with America’s NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) allies in terms of Defence trade and technology transfer was introduced recently. The US-India Defense Technology and Partnership Act (HR 4825) proposes to amends the Arms Export Control Action. It was introduced by Congressman George Holding, Co-Chair of the House India Caucus. The resolution seeks to formalise (i) India’s status as a major partner of equal status as US’s NATO allies and closest partners and (ii) also elevate India’s status in export of defence articles from the US. Benefits to India Cement the India-US relations and lay a foundation for future cooperation and growth. Shorten the time required for the notification of sale or export of defence articles from the United States to India. Encourage more joint contingency planning and require the US government review and assess India’s ability to execute military operations of mutual interest. US-India Defence Relations Defence trade between the US and India is one of the strongest areas of the bilateral economic relationship. Over the past 10 years it has risen from $300 million to over $14 billion.

6. India Post has released a customised commemorative stamp on Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) in recognition of the company’s 75 years of service to the nation. The stamp was released by Usha Chandrasekhar, Chief Postmaster General of Karnataka circle and VM Chamola, Director (HR). It is for the first time India Post has issued a customised ‘My Stamp’ and HAL is the first organisation to feature on it. The tagline of the customized stamp is ‘HAL: The force behind the forces’ and HAL’s platinum jubilee logo on it representing company’s contribution to the nation’s defence forces. HAL’s special 75-year celebration logo signifies HAL’s journey over the past 75 years. It depicts HAL’s first indigenous aircraft programme from HT-2 to the light combat aircraft (LCA) Tejas. About Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL) HAL is state-owned aerospace and defence company based in Bangalore, Karnataka. It is governed under the management of the Union Defence Ministry. It pursues high-end research and development to create the country’s future aircraft and aeroengine technologies History: It was established on 23 December 1940 as Hindustan Aircraft Company by industrialist Walchand Hirachand Doshi. It was acquired by the British in 1942 and consolidated under the present name in 1964. Key Products: HAL is India’s sole military aircraft maker that manufactures Transport aircrafts, Fighter aircraft and Helicopters. Its production portfolio includes Sukhoi-30, Mirage 2000 fighters; the DRDO-ADA’s Light Combat Aircraft, trainer aircraft including the British-make Hawks, transport aircraft for the Forces and military helicopters. Its own product is the multipurpose Advanced Light Helicopter ‘Dhruv’ and its variations for combat and surveillance.

7. The Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare launched the Longitudinal Ageing Study in India (LASI) to assess the needs of its elderly people and frame policies accordingly. The survey will take into account study on 60,000 elderly people over 25 years plan and will be the largest survey of its kind. Key facts LASI project will be jointly funded by the Union Health Ministry, United Nation’s Population Fund-India and United States National Institute on Ageing. The survey would be undertaken by the Mumbai based International Institute for Population Sciences (IIPS), in collaboration with Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) and University of Southern California (USC). It will provide Union Health Ministry sufficient data on older population in the country that in turn would be used to develop a scientifically validated data needed for their health, economic and social analysis of the older population. It will investigate various health structures, and impact of social determinants on health of the elderly. It will provide scientific data for framing evidence-based policy for elderly citizens and help in expanding the scope of health and social security policy and programmes for older population.

8. Every year March 24 is being observed as World Tuberculosis (TB) Day to o build public awareness about the global epidemic of TB and efforts to eliminate the disease. 2016 Theme: “Unite to End TB”. It was adopted on the lines of 2030 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations. The goal 3 of the SDG aspires to ensure well-being and health for all. It also includes a bold commitment to end the epidemics of AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis and other communicable diseases by 2030. About World Tuberculosis Day This day is observed to commemorate discovery of bacillus causing tuberculosis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis on 24th March, 1882. It is one of eight official global public health campaigns observed by the World Health Organization (WHO). About Tuberculosis Tuberculosis is an infectious bacterial disease caused by various strains of Mycobacterium tuberculosis. It is the second biggest killer disease worldwide next only to HIV/AIDS. It commonly affects the lungs but can also affect other parts of the body. Transmission: It spreads through the air when people who have active infection cough, sneeze, or spit. Prevention: It can be completely cured if proper and regular medication is taken.

9. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for a MoU between India and United Arab Emirates (UAE) to mobilise long-term investment in National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF). Decision in this regard was taken by Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Key facts The MoU will help establish a transparent and high-level framework and collaboration platform for both countries. Under this platform both countries will explore ways to facilitate and expand the participation of UAE’s investment institutions in appropriate infrastructure projects and institutions in India including NIIF. Under this MOU, a joint working group comprising of the concerned representatives of both parties would be established to take forward cooperation and to discuss and agree the terms, principles and criteria jointly. Background In August 2015, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to UAE both countries had agreed to establishment of UAE-India Infrastructure Investment Fund. The aim of the fund was to reach a target of 75 billion dollars to support investment in India’s plans for rapid expansion of next generation infrastructure. About National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) The NIIF has been established by Union Government as a Category II Alternate Investment Funds (AIF) as per the regulations of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The objective of NIIF is to maximize economic growth of the country mainly through infrastructure development in commercially viable projects (both greenfield and brownfield), including stalled projects. For the investment purpose, NIIF will solicit equity participation from strategic anchor partners.

10. India and France have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for construction of six nuclear reactors at Jaitapur nuclear park in Maharashtra. It was inked by Electricite de France (EDF), a French public utility and the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Ltd (NPCIL). The MoU was signed after the two countries had decided to conclude the techno-commercial negotiations for the Jaitapur project by the end of 2016. This cooperation roadmap was finalised during the official state Visit of French President Francois Hollande to India in January 2016. EDF is France’s public electricity producer and supplier. It has been designated by the French government for taking over AREVA NP and shall supply equipment to for Jaitapur nuclear park. About Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project It is a 9900 MW power project proposed by Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) at Madban village of Ratnagiri district in Maharashtra. On completion, it will become the largest nuclear power generating station in the world by net electrical power rating. It consists of 6 European Pressurised Reactors (EPR) of 1650 MW each. France is going to supply technology for construction and also nuclear fuel for 25 years for this plant.

11. Punjab Legislative Assembly has passed Punjab Settlement of Agriculture Indebtedness Bill, 2016. The Bill seeks to provide relief to agriculturists, labourers and others dependent on agriculture by providing them fair settlement of their debt related disputes. It also deals with expeditious determination and settlement of non-institutional agricultural debt. Key features of bill It establishes district-level agricultural debt settlement forums and a state-level agricultural debt settlement tribunal to help farmers reconcile and settle their non-institutional debts. Government will prescribe a maximum rate of interest which can be charged by the creditors on non-institutional loans provided by them. Jurisdiction of civil courts has been barred and all pending disputes in the civil courts will be transferred to these forums from the date the Act is notified. Each creditor will issue an authenticated passbook to the debtor and the proceedings before the forum and the tribunal will be judicial proceedings. The forum will decide the dispute within three months. Both the forum and tribunal will have a three-year term. Any debtor or creditor of agricultural loan can file a petition before the district-level forum for settlement of their debt. If they are aggrieved with the order of the forum, then they can file an appeal before the state-level tribunal. The forum can settle agricultural loans up to 15 lakh rupees.

12. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for India to accede to the Ashgabat Agreement, an international transport and transit corridor. The agreement facilitates transportation of goods between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf. India would become party to the Agreement upon consent of the founding members. Accession to the Agreement would enable India to Utilise this existing transport and transit corridor to facilitate trade and commercial interaction and ties with the Eurasian region. Synchronise India’s efforts to implement the International North South Transport Corridor (INSTC) for enhanced connectivity. It will provide India an opportunity for reorientation of the freight traffic from the traditional sea route to land transcontinental routes. About Ashgabat Agreement It is a transit agreement established in year 2011. It establishes international transport and transit corridor between Central Asia and the Persian Gulf countries. Its founding members are Uzbekistan, Iran, Turkmenistan and Oman. Kazakhstan had joined the grouping in 2015.

13.Retired Chief Justice of Sikkim High Court Justice Permod Kohli has been appointed as the Chairman of Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT). His appointment was approved by the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New. Justice Kohli will have tenure of five years with effect from the date of assumption of charge of the post or till attaining the age of 68 years, whichever is earlier.

14. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Bangladesh’s PM Sheikh Hasina alongwith Chief Minister of Tripura inaugurated two historical projects between two countries via video conference. These projects are 100 MW power export via transmission lines between Surjamaninagar (Tripura) and South Comilla in Bangladesh. Announcement of India’s 3rd Internet Gateway optical fibre connection between Cox Bazaar in Bangladesh and Agartala (Tripura). Bangladesh will export 10 gbps (gigabytes per second) of Internet bandwidth to India. It will help India strengthen telecom services and connectivity in India’s underdeveloped and sparsely connected eight northeastern states. Under the connectivity project, an international gateway for broadband connectivity will be set up at Agartala (Tripura) through which connectivity will be provided via Bangladesh. India’s state-run Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) and Bangladesh Submarine Cable Co. Ltd (BSCCL) using the network of the Bangladesh Telecom Co. Ltd are implementing agencies. These agreements on the export of electricity and Internet bandwidth were signed between both countries in Dhaka during PM Narendra Modi’s official visit to Bangladesh in June 2015.

15. Nepal was officially made a dialogue partner of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), a Beijing-based regional security grouping. In this regard, Nepal signed memorandum during Nepalese Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli official visit to China. As a dialogue partner, Nepal will be able to participate in the multi-field cooperation of the SCO. It will also create new opportunities for the SCO’s mutually beneficial cooperation and benefit people living in the extensive region that the SCO covers. About Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) SCO is a Eurasian economic, political and military organisation. 8 Members: China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India and Pakistan. Observers: Afghanistan, Iran, Mongolia and Belarus. Headquarters: Beijing, China. Established: 2001 in Shanghai by the leaders 6 countries viz. China, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Russia, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. It was an outcome of The Shanghai Five grouping established in 1996 by Kazakhstan, China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia and Tajikistan. SCO’s first enlargement was in 2001 with addition of Uzbekistan and second enlargement was in July 2015 with addition of 2 new members India and Pakistan.

16. The Union Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC) for the first time notified new environment standards for Gensets running on various kinds of fuels including LPG, petrol and diesel in various cities. The primary aim of the new standards for Gensets is to control air and noise pollution emanating from the operation of Gensets. These standards were recommended by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) after consultations with industries and other stakeholders. Key highlights of Notification In all the three fuel modes of operation of Gensets, a three-tier classification has been adopted. These standards will control the air and noise emission profile across different category of Gensets. It would be revisited in 4-5 years once air and noise emission quality data and technological details pertaining to Gensets are available. Under these standards certification is mandatory for Gensets in terms of ‘Type approval’ and ‘Conformity of Production’ for air emission as well as noise emission. The manufacturers of Gensets are required to obtain the certification for engine products by empaneled agencies which help in regulating the unorganised sector. It will also help curb illegal import of Gensets in the country which were observed to have higher air and noise emission values.

17. The Chairman of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) Justice HL Dattu has been appointed as member of the International Coordinating Committee Bureau (ICCB) of National Human Rights Institutions (NHRI-ICC) Bureau in Geneva. He has been selected from the Asia-Pacific region and shall represent India along with Mongolia, Qatar and Australia from this region. He was nominated unanimously after no other NHRI from the region nominated candidate against him to fill vacancy created after the representative of NHRI of South-Korea vacated it. About International Coordinating Committee of National Human Rights Institutions The ICC Bureau is an important human rights body that serves as the Management Committee of the International Coordinating Committee of National Human Rights Institutions (ICC). It implements all the decisions of the ICC General Meetings and directs the operations of the ICC between these meetings. ICC Bureau consists of sixteen ‘A’ status NHRIs four from each region namely, Americas, Europe, Africa and the Asia-Pacific. India’s NHRC has been an active Member of the ICC and regularly taking part in its activities, including Annual General Meetings.

18. Nepal has signed an agreement with China to build a strategic railway link between the two countries through Tibet. This agreement was signed during Nepal Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli’s official seven day visit to China. Two countries have signed the transit trade treaty which will end Nepal’s dependency on Indian sea ports. Presently, India has virtual monopoly in trade with the Nepal which accounts for one third trade of the Himalayan landlocked country. The agreements signed also include a feasibility study on the establishment of a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between both countries. China will also provide assistance to build a border bridge over the Simikot-Hilsa road section that will connect Humla district of Nepal with Tibet. The other agreements included on economic and technical cooperation to build a Regional International Airport Project at Pokhara which is the Nepal’s famous tourist site. Both countries also discussed on various issues to boost bilateral cooperation including trade diversification, cross border connectivity and infrastructure development, cooperation on energy, tourism, finance, education and culture.

19. Noted fashion designer Ritu Beri has been appointed advisor to the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC) for promotion of khadi in India and across the world. She has been appointed for tenure of one year and shall advise KVIC on ways to promote khadi in India and across the world. Beri has 25 years of rich experience in the global fashion arena designing clothes for international and national celebrities.

20. India’s Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve (ABR) was included in the World Network of Biosphere Reserves of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). It was included along with other 19 sites at the International Coordinating Council of the Man and the Biosphere (ICCMAB) programme of UNESCO that concluded recently in Lima, Peru. With the addition of the ABR, total 10 of the 18 biosphere reserves in the country have made it to the list of World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The other 9 Biosphere Reserves are: Nilgiri (Western Ghats), Gulf of Mannar (Tamil Nadu), Sunderban (West Bengal), Nanda Devi (Uttarakhand), Nokrek (Meghalaya), Pachmarh (Madhya Pradesh), Similipal (Odisha), Achanakmar-Amarkantak (Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh) and Great Nicobar. The BRs are designated for inclusion in the network by the ICCMAB after evaluating the nominations forwarded by the State through National MAB Committees. About Agasthyamala Biosphere Reserve (ABR) ABR in situated at the southern-most end of the Western Ghats and spread over two southern states Kerala and Tamil Nadu. It was established in 2001. The reserve is named after Agastya Mala peak that rises up to almost 1868 metres above sea level, in Thiruvananthapuram,Kerala. It covers an area of 3,500 sq km at an altitude ranging from 100 metres to 1,868 metres above the Mean Sea Level. It covers Peppara and Shendurney wildlife sanctuaries and parts of the Neyyar sanctuary in Kerala and the Kalakad Mundanthurai Tiger Reserve of Tamil Nadu. Flora: It mostly consists of tropical forests and is home to 2,254 species of higher plants including about 400 that are endemic. About 400 Red Listed Plants have been recorded from ABR. About 125 species of orchids and rare, endemic and threatened plants have been recorded from the reserve. Fauna: It is home to rare animals include the tiger, Asian Elephant, and Nilgiri Tahr. Tribe: It is home to the Kanikaran tribe, one of the oldest surviving ancient tribes in the world. About Biosphere Reserves (BR) They are places for learning about sustainable development that aims to reconcile the conservation of biodiversity with the sustainable use of natural resources. In India, BRs protect larger areas of natural habitat and often include one or more National Parks. In BRs, protection is granted not only to the flora and fauna of the protected region, but also to the human communities who inhabit these regions and their ways of life.

21. India has assumed BRICS Chairmanship from the Russian Federation for the year 2016. BRICS is an association of five countries viz. Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. On this occasion, Union External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj formally unveiled the BRICS Logo for the duration of India’s BRICS Chairmanship and also launched website. India has assumed BRICS Chairmanship for second time and had hosted the BRICS Summit in 2012 for first time in New Dehli. The 7th BRICS Summit was held in the Russian city of Ufa in July 2015. Key facts India will host the 8th BRICS Summit would be organized on 15-16 October 2016 in Goa. It will host over fifty meetings and events, at the Ministerial, Working Groups, Senior Officials, Technical and Track-II levels. Building responsive, inclusive and collective solutions is the core-theme for the BRICS Chairmanship. The special focus will be on institution-building, implementing past commitments and exploring innovative solutions in a spirit of continuity with consolidation. About BRICS BRICS is the acronym for an association of five major emerging national economies: Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Established: 2009. Originally it was known as BRIC before the inclusion of South Africa in 2011. First Summit: The first formal summit was held in Yekaterinburg, Russia. The BRICS members are all developing or newly industrialised countries and all five are G-20 members. They are distinguished by their large, fast-growing economies and significant influence on regional and global affairs.

22. Every year World Water Day (WWD) is observed globally on 22 March to preserve and ration consumption of water. Significance of the Day: WWD is observed to make a difference for the members of the global population who suffer from water related issues. It marks a day to prepare for how we manage water in the future. 2016 Theme: “Better Water, Better Jobs”. It focuses on the central role that water plays in creating and supporting good quality jobs. Almost half of the world’s workers (nearly 1.5 billion) people work in water related sectors and nearly all jobs depend on water and those that ensure its safe delivery. Background WWD was first formally proposed in Agenda 21 of United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1992. Later, the UN General Assembly (UNGA) accepted the recommendation of UNCED and celebrated first World Water Day on 22 March 1993. Since then this day is observed annually to draw attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for the sustainable management of fresh water resources. 2015 theme of WWD was ‘Water and Sustainable Development’.

23. The Indian Navy for the first has deployed a P8I maritime reconnaissance aircraft to Seychelles for surveillance in the Exclusive Economic Zone of Seychelles. The deployment has been done in accordance with the MoU signed between India and Seychelles. The deployment will provide Professional assistance to the Seychelles People’s Defence Force (SPDF) in curbing illegal activities and piracy as well as contribute towards security and stability in the IOR. This is the first time that Indian Navy has deployed its latest and technologically most advanced maritime reconnaissance aircraft in Seychelles.

24. The fast patrol vessel (FPV) of the Indian Coast Guard ICGS Arnvesh was commissioned at Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The ship is primarily intended to undertake coastal patrol, surveillance at sea, anti-smuggling, anti-piracy operations and search and rescue operations. Key features of ICGS Arnvesh The vessel among the 20 FPVs indigenously built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL). It is capable of carrying a crew of five officers and 34 men on board. The ship is 50-metre long, 300-tonne vessel. The vessel is propelled by triple Rolls Royce Kamewa water jets. It can achieve a maximum speed of 33 knots. It has been fitted with the state-of-the-art communication and navigational equipment including night vision capabilities. Its main armament comprise 40/60 Bofors guns. At present, the Indian Coast Guard has 120 ships, 63 aircraft and 10,000 men, spread across its 42 Coast Guard Stations, 10 Coast Guard Air Enclaves and 5 air stations.

25. The Union Health and Family Welfare Ministry has launched new anti-TB (Tuberculosis) drug Bedaquiline It was launched by the Union Health Minister J P Nadda as part of the TB national programme Initially the drug will be made available in six public hospitals in Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Guwahati and Ahmedabad. Later it will be introduced in 104 districts across five States. Bedaquiline is a new anti-TB drug for treatment of Multi-drug-resistant tuberculosis. It specifically targets Mycobacterial ATP synthase, an enzyme which is essential for the supply of energy to Mycobacterium tuberculosis and most other mycobacteria.

26. Intel’s former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Chairman Andrew Grove passed due to away Parkinson’s disease. He was 79. He was a science pioneer in the semiconductor industry and under his leadership Intel became a household name in computers.

27. Every year 21st March is being observed as International Day of Forests to raise awareness of the importance of all types of forests and of trees outside forests. The observance of the day is also used to communicate the vital role forests play in to sustain and protect us i.e. in environmental sustainability, food security and poverty eradication. Theme for 2016: “Forests and water”. The theme highlights importance of forests as key factor to the planet’s supply of freshwater, which is essential for life. It also marks the joint celebration of the International Day of Forests and World Water Day (22nd March). Background The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had proclaimed 21 March the International Day of Forests by adopting resolution A/RES/67/200 on 28 November 2012. The first International Day of Forests was observed on 21 March 2013. Key facts Forests cover one third (about 31% of global land area) of the Earth’s land mass, performing vital functions around the world. Being the most biologically-diverse ecosystems on land, forests are a home for more than 80% of the terrestrial species of animals, plants and insects. Around the world, 1.6 billion people including more than 2,000 indigenous cultures depend on forests for their livelihood. Despite all of these priceless ecological, economic, social and health benefits of forests, the global deforestation continues at an alarming. Deforestation accounts for 12 to 20% of the global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions that contribute to climate change. Water Sources: Forested watersheds and wetlands supply around 75% of the world’s accessible freshwater. Forests generally act as natural water filters. About one-third of the world’s largest cities obtain a significant proportion of their drinking water directly from forested protected areas. Climate change is altering forests role in water flows and the availability of water resources.

28. The agreement between the European Union (EU) and Turkey to tackle the migrant crisis has formally come into effect. Under this agreement, migrants arriving in Greece will be sent back to Turkey if their asylum claim is rejected. Key features of agreement All irregular migrants into Greece crossing from Turkey from 20 March 2016 will be sent back. Henceforth migrants’ arrival will be individually assessed by the Greek authorities. The EU will resettle Syrian migrant for each Syrian returned to Turkey. In this case priority will be given to those who have not tried to illegally enter the EU. By June 2016, it will be mandatory for Turkish nationals to have access to the Schengen passport-free zone. It will not be applicable to non-Schengen countries like Britain. The EU is to speed up the allocation of €3 billion ($3.3 billion) in aid to Turkey to help migrants’ crisis. Both signatory sides have agreed to re-energise Turkey’s bid to join the European Union (EU) bloc. In this regard formal talks will begin in July, 2016. Since January 2015, millions of migrants and refugees have entered the EU by boat from Turkey to Greece via Mediterranean Sea route. Thousands are stuck in Greece as their route north has been blocked. This deal

29. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched Kisan Suvidha mobile application for farmers to provide agricultural relevant basic information quickly. Kisan Suvidha is an omnibus mobile app that will provide basic information on subjects such as market prices, seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, weather and agriculture machinery. Key Features The app has a simple interface and the information will be available in Hindi and English. It will provide information on five critical parameters weather, market price, input dealers, plant protection and expert advisories. To begin with, a farmer has to register the mobile number, choose a language and also must enter details of the state, district and block or sub-district. Weather section: It will show details of humidity, temperature, wind and rainfall for the current day and the forecast for the next five days. Additionally, a farmer will be also provided with the extreme weather alerts like hailstorms or unseasonal rains. Market price section: It will show latest price of all crops traded in a registered agriculture market or mandi of the particular district. Plant protection section: It will give pest, weed and disease-related information as well as management practices for each stage of crop development from nursery to harvesting. Agro advisory section: It will show messages for farmers from district agriculture officials and state universities in their local language. Kisan call centre: The app also directly connects the farmer with the Kisan call centre where technical graduates answer their queries.

30. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had conferred 2014-15 Krishi Karman Awards to various states in a ceremony held at New Delhi. The awards were presented in two different categories viz. Total foodgrain production and Individual Crops. Winner of Krishi Karman Awards 2014-15 Total foodgrain production: Total 5 winning states were awarded in different categories. Each state was awarded a trophy, a citation and a monetary prize of 5 crore rupees. These states are Madhya Pradesh: For production greater than 10 million tonnes in Category I States. Himachal Pradesh and Odisha: For production between 1 and 10 million tonnes in Category II States. Arunachal Pradesh and Meghalaya: For production less than 1 million tonnes in Category III States. Individual Crops: Total 5 winning states were awarded a trophy, a citation and a monetary award of 2 crore rupees. These states are Haryana, Assam: Rice. Rajasthan: Wheat. Chhattisgarh: Pulses. West Bengal: Oil Seeds.

31. The tenth edition of World Wide Fund for Nature’s (WWF’s) Earth Hour was observed across the World on 19 March 2016 from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm local time. Earth Hour 2016 encouraged people to explore and adopt a cleaner and more sustainable lifestyle by embracing renewable energy solutions. Key facts In the 2016 edition of Earth Hour, millions of people around the world took part in the event for the global climate change awareness campaign. Over 178 countries and territories participated in the event and more than 1,200 landmarks along with 40 UNESCO world heritage sites observed the Earth Hour. For India, the country-specific theme was to encourage usage of solar energy by individuals and organizations. Paris’s iconic Eiffel Tower, Berlin’s Brandenburg Gate and Hong Kong’s famed skyline also participated in the Earth Hour by switching off their lights for 1 hour from 8:30pm local time. In India, Rashtrapati Bhavan also participated by switching off lights for 1 hour. About Earth Hour It is an annual global environmental event (movement) organized by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). Earth Hour’s goal is to raise awareness for sustainable energy use and create a more environmentally sustainable lifestyle. This day encourages citizens, communities, businesses and organisations to switch the lights off from 8:30 pm local time for an hour to highlight the plight of the planet. The first Earth Hour was held on March 31, 2007 in Sydney, Australia. Since then it became annual global environmental event (movement). World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF): It is an international non-governmental organization (NGO) working in the field of the biodiversity conservation, and the reduction of humanity’s footprint on the environment.

32. Tikka Shatrujit Singh (54), the royal scion of Kapurthala’s Ahluwalia dynasty, has been conferred with the prestigious Knight of the Legion of Honour by the French Government. He was presented with this honour by the French ambassador to India Francois Richier in a ceremony held in New Delhi. He was bestowed with this prestigious award for his extraordinary work in the exchanging the French lifestyle and Indian culture with each other.

33. Pfizer India has appointed S Sridhar as the managing director (MD) of the company. His appointment will be subject to approval of the company’s shareholders at the annual general meeting. S Sridhar is a chartered accountant by profession and has over 20 years of experience. Earlier he had served Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Pfizer India for a period of seven years.

34. An Indian student Geetakshi Arora has been awarded the inaugural Noor Inayat Khan Prize for her excellent dissertation on “Goddess Myths in Graphic Novels: Reimagining Indian Feminity”. Currently, Geetakshi is a post-graduate student of the South Asia Institute at the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS), University of London. About Noor Inayat Khan Prize The award has been instituted in the memory of Noor Inayat Khan, famous World War II heroine. The award was established by Noor Inayat Khan Memorial Trust that promote the message of peace, non-violence and religious and racial harmony The award consists of 1,000 pounds and certificate.

35. The Indian Air Force (IAF) has conducted its flagship day-night exercise ‘Iron-fist 2016’ at Pokhran firing range in Rajasthan. The day-night exercise demonstrating IAF’s combat and fire power was conducted in the presence of Hon’ble President Shri Pranab Mukherjee and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The event comprised 6 packages depicting 6 different themes in which more than 180 aircraft, including fighters, transport and helicopters of IAF participated. They are Fly Past: It depicted the great journey of the IAF over 8 decades with the aircraft of yesteryear flying wing to wing along with the latest acquisitions of the IAF. Net Enabled Operations: It showcased the indigenously developed Airborne Early Warning and Control System (AEWCS) of aircrafts. It also displayed multiple aircraft weapon delivery demonstration of precision based bombing at simulated enemy targets. Air Defence Operations: The multi-layered Air Defence Operations of the IAF was demonstrated by the Flight Refuelling aircraft (IL-78 FRA) along with two Su-30 aircraft and the indigenously built Light Combat Aircraft ‘Tejas’. Combat Support Operations: It showcased the very important role played by the IAF in support of the ground forces using live weapons. The assault landing capability of C-130 J aircraft and fire fighting capability of the Mi-17V5 were also displayed. Flying Displays: It displayed aerobatic displays by the Sarangs, Suryakirans and the Su-30. All Weather Operations: The night capabilities of the IAF were also displayed with number of targets were engaged in this phase by fighters, transport aircraft and helicopters using rockets as well as bombs. The event mainly showcased more than 22 types of platforms and Weapons Systems of IAF. Frontline fighter aircraft including Sukhoi-30, Mirage-2000, Jaguar, MiG-29, Attack helicopters, Remotely Piloted Aircraft (RPA) and high tech AWACS were displayed during the show. IAF’s indigenous project – Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) “Tejas” was also a part. Transport aircraft like An-32, IL-76, IL-78, Embraer and C-130J also participated.

36. United States (US) Air Force General Lori Robinson has been selected as the next head of the US military’s Northern Command. With this she becomes the first woman to head a US combatant command as the position is one of the most senior in the US military.

37. Union urban Development, Housing and Urban Poverty Alleviation and Parliamentary Affairs Minister M Venkaiah Naidu has been conferred with the Skoch Lifetime Achievement Award. He was bestowed with this award at 43rd SKOCH summit held in New Delhi for his contributions to inclusive growth and towards poverty alleviation in India.

38. Acclaimed humanitarian, actor, writer and political activist Ashley Judd from US has been appointed as Goodwill Ambassador of the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA). As a Goodwill Ambassador, she will support the UNFPA’s efforts to empower women to choose when and how often to become pregnant and to stop women dying giving life. She will also play important role at generating awareness about the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It should be noted that Goals 3 and 5 in the 2030 Agenda for SDGs seek to end discrimination against women in all forms and promote their well-being. About United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) UNFPA is the nodal UN agency to address reproductive health and population issues, and raises awareness of these issues in all countries. Established: It was formerly known as the United Nations Fund for Population Activities. Headquarters: New York, US. It supports programs in more than 150 countries spread across 4 geographic regions viz. Arab States and Europe, Asia and Pacific, Latin America and Caribbean and sub-Saharan Africa.

39. Goa government has classified Feni, country liquor as the heritage spirit of the state. In this regard, state government has opined not categorise it as country liquor as it is presently defined under the Goa Excise Duty Act, 1964. State government also has proposed to bring an amendment to the Act to change the status.

40. The Supreme Court has allowed publication of photographs of Governors, Chief Ministers and the Ministers of the department concerned in government advertisements. Ruling in this regard was given by a SC bench headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi on pleas by Union Government and states which had sought review of the Supreme Court judgement. This ruling of Supreme Court has modified its earlier 2015 order which only had permitted photographs of President, Prime Minister and Chief Justice of India (CJI) in the government advertisements.

41. Union Government has launched Depot Online System of state run Food Corporation of India (FCI) to bring transparency and minimise storage losses of foodgrains. It was launched by Union Food and public Distribution Minister Ram Vilas Paswan in New Delhi as part of Digital India initiative of Union Government. Key facts Depot Online System will help real time monitoring of FCI operations and enhance transparency and efficiency. The project is being implemented in the FCI owned 553 depots and subsequently FCI hired godowns will be also brought under the ambit of the project later. The system will bring automation of the entire process from entry and exit of foodgrains at FCI depots. It would eliminate usage of manual registers and would help in better monitoring and supervision as would reduce leakages and losses.

42. The India Meteorology Department (IMD) has deployed indigenously developed Drishti, an instrument that will provide real time visibility information to pilots. The instrument will help pilots in quick decision-making during critical landings and take-offs of aircraft particularly during foggy or rainy days.