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1. India has formally ratified the WTO’s (World Trade Organisation) Trade Facilitation Agreement, which aims at easing customs procedures to boost commerce. In this regard, India’s WTO ambassador Anjali Prasad handed over the instrument of acceptance to WTO Director-General Roberto Azevêdo. India is the 76th WTO member to ratify the TFA. What is Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA)? The TFA is the WTO’s first-ever multilateral accord that aims to simplify customs regulations for the cross-border movement of goods. It was outcome of WTO’s 9th Bali (Indonesia) ministerial package of 2013. The agreement includes provisions for Lowering import tariffs and agricultural subsidies: It will make it easier for developing countries to trade with the developed world in global markets. Abolish hard import quotas: Developed countries would abolish hard import quotas on agricultural products from the developing world and instead would only be allowed to charge tariffs on amount of agricultural imports exceeding specific limits. Reduction in red tape at international borders: It aims to reduce red-tapism to facilitate trade by reforming customs bureaucracies and formalities. Comment The ratification will supplement India’s ongoing reforms to bring in simplification and enhanced transparency in cross border trade in goods. It will further help India to boost economic growth by reducing trade costs and supporting its integration into the global economy. The implementation of the TFA has the potential to create US 1 trillion dollars’ worth of global economic activity which may add 21 million new jobs and lower the cost of doing international trade by 10 to 15 per cent.

2. Bollywood actor Salman Khan was named as the goodwill ambassador of the Indian contingent for the upcoming Olympics to be held in August 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. This is the first time when a Bollywood superstar has been chosen as a goodwill ambassador for the Indian contingent at the Olympics. He was chosen by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA) from a list of two to three candidates which also included Shah Rukh Khan and veteran actor Amitabh Bachchan. IOA has chosen Salman Khan as he is considered to be more connected with the youth and sportspersons and also is considered as a youth icon for bodybuilding fans across the country.

3. President Pranab Mukherjee has nominated of six eminent members to Rajya Sabha as per the provisions of Article 80 of the Constitution. These nominated members are Mary Kom: Legendary boxer and Olympic bronze medallist. She belongs to the Sino-Tibetan speaking Kom tribe of Manipur. She is five-time World Amateur Boxing champion, and the only woman boxer to have won a medal in each one of the six world championships. In 2014, she became the first Indian woman boxer to get a gold medal in the Asian Games in Incheon, South Korea. Narendra Jadhav: He is renowned economist and former member of the erstwhile National Advisory Council (2010-14) and Planning Commission (2009-14). He is also the former vice-chancellor of Pune University. Suresh Gopi: He is Malayalam actor and had acted in over 200 films. He is a winner of the National Film Award and Filmfare Award. Swapan Dasgupta: He is journalist by profession. He had worked at senior editorial positions in various publications including The Indian Express, India Today and The Times of India. Subramanian Swamy: He is BJP leader and was elected to the Lok Sabha in 1977, 1980 and 1988, and to the Rajya Sabha in 1974 and 1998. Navjot Singh Sidhu: He is cricketer-turned-politician and former two time member of Lok Sabha. Nomination of eminent members to Rajya Sabha As per Article 80 (Part V) of the Constitution, President can nominate 12 members in the Council of States (Rajya Sabha). These persons should have special knowledge or practical experience in the field of Art, Science, Literature and Social Service. The rationale behind the principle of the nomination is to facilitate the representation of eminent professionals and experts who cannot face direct elections.

4. 175 nations including India have signed the historic Paris Climate Agreement at United Nations Headquarters in New York along marking a significant step to combat global warming. On behalf of India, Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar signed the agreement at a high-level ceremony hosted by UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on the occasion of Earth Day (22 April). The ceremony was attended by heads of governments, foreign ministers, corporate leaders and artists from across the world. The agreement will come into force 30 days after at least 55 Parties to the UNFCCC, accounting for at least 55 per cent of global emissions ratify the agreement. Key facts The Paris Climate Agreement was formulated within the framework of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). Facilitates enforcement of global GHGs reduction measures, adaptation and finance in the post-2020 i.e. in post Kyoto Protocol scenario. The agreement was adopted by representatives of 195 countries at the 21st Conference of the Parties of the UNFCCC held in Paris (France) in December 2015. In the agreement, all countries agreed to work to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius, and to strive for 1.5 degrees Celsius. Takes into account the principle of equity (climate justice) and common but differentiated responsibilities (CBDR) and respective capabilities. The mitigation will be based on consensus among the members that have incorporated their respective Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs). Developed countries will provide 100 billion dollars annually to the developing counterparts beginning in 2020 and it would increase with time. Comment The signing of this agreement is the first step toward ensuring that it comes into force as soon as possible. After the signing, countries must take the further national step of accepting or ratifying the agreement.

5. Indian Information Service (IIS) officer Bhupendra Kainthola has been appointed as Director of Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). Kainthola will replace Prashant Pathrabe and shall have tenure of three years. He is a 1989 batch IIS officer.

6. China and Pakistan have signed an agreement for the launch of a special satellite to monitor the development of the multi-billion dollars China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) projects. In this regard, both countries have decided for development and launch of the Pakistan Remote Sensing Satellite (PRSS-1) System and launch a satellite in June 2018. Implications This agreement will also transfer space technology to Pakistan as the PRSS-1 is considered as yet another flagship project between China-Pakistan after CPEC. It would also help Pakistan in its national security arena by strengthening surveillance apparatus and border security. Comment This bilateral cooperation in space domain would open new arena of socio-economic and scientific cooperation and would give boost to the historic bilateral cordial relations in other fields between all-weather friends.
About China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) Project CPEC refers to a clutch of major infrastructure projects currently under way in Pakistan. The corridor is mainly consists of road, rail and power projects. It is intended to link Kashgar in Xinjiang province of China to Gwadar deep sea port close to Pakistan’s border with Iran. China’s Gain: The CPEC is part of China’s regional transnational ‘One Belt One Road’ (OBOR) initiative that connects large patch of Asia and Eastern Europe. Gwadar Port is strategically located and lies close to the Strait of Hormuz (near Iran), a key international oil shipping lane. It could open up an energy and trade corridor from the Gulf region across Pakistan to western China and also could be used by the Chinese Navy for military purpose. The CPEC will give China land access to the Indian Ocean, cutting the nearly 13,000 km sea voyage through the Strait of Malacca (major chokepoint) and around India to 2,000 km road journey from Gwadar to Kashgar. The development of Kashgar as a trade terminus will reduce isolation of the underdeveloped Xinjiang province and deepen its engagement with the rest of China. Land locked energy rich Central Asian countries are keen to plug their infrastructure networks to the CPEC. It will allow Central Asian countries access to the Indian Ocean, while contributing to the OBOR initiative. Pakistan’s Gain: The project seeks to upgrade and expand infrastructure across the length and breadth of Pakistan and deepen economic ties between both countries. The CPEC theoretically can be a gamechanger for Pakistan as it has potential to boost economic scenario at a time when terrorism has severely affected it. Pakistan also expects the CPEC will bind it closer with close friend China, giving it greater strategic leverage with both United States and India in the Indian Ocean region. India’s Concern: India has already objected to the China Pakistan Economic Corridor as it passes through the Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK). This corridor may also impact the security of the nation. But experts believe that India has no worry over the construction of CPEC as an economically strong Pakistan would bring stability in the region.

7. The Supreme Court has stayed the judgement of the Uttarakhand High Court quashing the imposition of President’s rule imposed under Article 356 in the Constitution till April 27, 2016. With this President rule has been again restored in Uttarakhand as the High Court judgement will be kept in abeyance till the next date of hearing of SC. The apex court stay order came after the Union Government had moved the Court against the Uttarakhand High Court verdict quashing President’s rule in the state. Background Uttarakhand High Court Order: On 21 April 2016, Uttarakhand HC had quashed the imposition of President’ Rule in the state. It also had revived the term of Congress Government headed by Harish Rawat and had asked him to prove his majority on 29 April 2016. Political Crisis: The Himalayan had plunged into a political crisis after nine legislators from ruling Congress part including former chief minister Vijay Bahuguna had revolted against the Chief Minister Harish Rawat. Since then the state was under the President’s Rule.

8. Every year Earth Day is being observed on the 22nd April to build support for environmental protection around the world. This year is 46th anniversary of Earth Day. Significance of the Day: It recognises that Earth and its ecosystems provide its inhabitants with life and sustenance. It also aims to raise awareness that humans have a collective responsibility to promote harmony with nature and to balance the economic, social and environmental needs of present and future generations. 2016 Theme: ‘Trees for the Earth!’. The theme signifies that trees are crucial for combating climate change as they absorb harmful levels of Carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. This year’s Earth Day coincides with the signing of the historic Paris Agreement on Climate Change. The agreement is a legally binding on signatory countries to limit global temperature rise to well below 2 degrees Celsius. On this day more than one billion people participate in Earth Day campaigns from all around the globe of all nationalities, faiths and backgrounds. Background The first Earth Day was celebrated in 1970. Since then it is being observed in more than 192 countries. The concept of observing Earth Day was formally proposed by John McConnell at a UNESCO conference on Environment in 1969 as a global holiday. Later in 1971, a proclamation was signed to observe international Earth Day annually on the Vernal Equinox by UN Secretary-General U Thant.

9. The Union Commerce and Industry Ministry has launched a new service Twitter Seva to address issues and grievances of startups, exporters and importers, and other stakeholders. In this regard, an institutionalised mechanism with a special Twitter cell has been created in the Ministry which is manned by a set of dedicated officers of the Ministry. Key facts Twitter Seva will address various queries of startups in a time-bound manner. In it, anyone who wants to access government irrespective of any department, they can put their queries using the hashtag – ‘#mociseva’ on micro blogging site twitter. The Union Commerce and Industry Ministry would try to respond to the queries within 48 to 72 working hours. Queries on matters relating to Department of Commerce and Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) will be answered through this service. It will also address queries regarding the Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT), , SEZs, Directorate General of supplies and Disposals, tea, rubber, coffee, spices, Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA). Issues related to manufacturing policy, investment promotion, industrial corridors, Startup India, Make in India, FDI, intellectual property rights will be also addressed.

10. Chad’s incumbent President, Idriss Deby (63) has won a fifth term in office in a lopsided first-round victory. In the 2016 election, Idriss Deby of Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS) party secured the 61.56% of the vote in the first-round runoff. Opposition leader Saleh Kebzabo finished at second position with 12.80% of the vote followed by Laokein Kourayo Mbaiherem with 10.60%.

11. According to FDI Intelligence Report India has replaced China as the top Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) destination by attracting $63 billion worth FDI projects in 2015. FDI Intelligence is a division of international media company – The Financial Times Limited. Key highlights of Report India was the highest-ranked country by capital investment in the year 2015, with 63 billion dollars-worth of FDI projects announced. It was the biggest change in Greenfield FDI in 2015 was near tripling with an estimated 63 billion dollars. There was an 8 per cent increase in project numbers to 697. The boost in FDI has resulted in a whopping increase in job creation from nearly 1 lakh in 2013 to over 2 lakh jobs in 2015. These high-value projects were specifically announced across the coal, oil and natural gas and renewable energy sectors India has replaced China as the top destination for FDI by capital investment following of high-value project announcements. Among the emerging economies: Greenfield FDI inflow in India and China was followed by Indonesia ($38.5 billion), Mexico ($24.3 billion) and Brazil ($17.3 billion). Top destination states for FDI in 2015 in India: Gujarat was on top which had attracted $12.4 billion. Maharashtra was second attracting $8.3 billion respectively in 2015.

12. Pop music superstar Prince Rogers Nelson popularly known as Prince passed away in suburban Minneapolis, United States. He was 57. Prince was widely known for his flamboyant stage presence and wide vocal range. He was the pioneer of famous song the Minneapolis sound and was renowned as an innovator for his eclectic work.

13. Union Government has renamed as Department of Investment and Public Asset Management (DIPAM). In this regard, the Union Finance Ministry has issued notification. The renaming decision aims at proper management of Central government’s investments in equity and also its disinvestment proceeds in central public sector undertakings (PSUs).

14. Scientists from Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) have indigenously developed world’s lightest synthetic material called ‘silica aerogel’ or ‘blue air’. It was developed by the team of scientist from ISRO’s e Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre, Thiruvananthapuram. Silica Aerogel is the lightest synthetic material ever made by man. Key Properties of Silica Aerogel Light in weight and can be delicately placed on a flower head. Excellent thermal resistance and acts as a good insulator. The matrix of aerogel is made up of 99 per cent air. In its present development stage it is still very fragile and brittle. Scientists at the Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre are still finding ways to make it tough and resilient. Applications It can used as filler in soldiers’ uniforms to save lives of soldiers at the Siachen glacier. It can be used to insulate rocket engines as it can be used both in space and on Earth. It can be also used to make light weight clothing. It can be also painted on windows in to keep buildings cool or warm. ISRO is going to use this material on moon rover in Chandryaan-2 mission of India.

15. The Union Government has merged Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan (RGKA) with the Khelo India Programme for development of sports. The RGKA was a centrally sponsored scheme launched by then Congress-led UPA government in 2014. Union Government also has merged two other sport projects launched by then UPA regime viz. Urban Sports Infrastructure Scheme (USIS) and National Sports Talent Search Scheme (NSTSS) under Khelo India. Khelo India Programme is based on Gujarat Government’s model of Khel Mahakumbh. In it chools and colleges from different parts of the country participate in about 27 disciplines. Even the Sports Authority of Gujarat (SAG) organises summer camps every year under this project. Rajiv Gandhi Khel Abhiyan(RGKA): It was launched in place of erstwhile Panchayat Yuva Krida aur Khel Abhiyan (PYKKA). RGKA aimed at constructing sports complexes in each block and exclusively both for indoor and outdoor in different sports discipline for 5 years. PYKKA: It was a rural sports initiative introduced by the Union Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports to promote youth and social development through sports.

16. The Union Cabinet gave its approval for signing the Paris Agreement adopted at the 21st Conference of Parties of UNFCCC held in Paris in December 2015. In this regard, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Environment, Forest and Climate Change Prakash Javadekar will sign the agreement on behalf of India. The Paris Agreement on climate change is considered as a milestone in global climate cooperation. It is meant to enhance the implementation of the Convention and recognizes the principles of common but differentiated responsibilities, equity and respective capabilities in the light of different national circumstances. Key features of the Paris Agreement Rights of Developing Countries: Acknowledges the development imperatives of developing countries and their rights to development. It also supports their efforts to harmonize development with environment and protecting the interests of the most vulnerable. Sustainable Development: It recognizes the importance of sustainable lifestyles and sustainable patterns of consumption. In this regard developed countries take the lead and also highlight the importance of ‘climate justice’ in its preamble. Implementation of the Convention: It reflects the principles of equity and common but differentiated responsibilities and respective capabilities especially in the light of different national circumstances. Other Objectives: It further ensures that it is not mitigation-centric and includes other important elements such as adaptation, finance, loss and damage, technology, capacity building and transparency of action and support. Pre-2020 actions are also part of the decisions. Financial support from Developed countries: They have been urged to scale up their level of financial support with a complete road map. The sole purpose the financial support from developed countries is to achieve the goal of mitigating climate change jointly providing US 100 billion dollars by 2020. The financial support will be used for mitigation and adaptation by significantly increasing adaptation finance from current levels. It will further provide appropriate technology and capacity building support.

17. The Sympathizer, a debut novel of Vietnamese American professor Viet Thanh Nguyen has won the Pulitzer Prize for fiction. While, Associated Press has won two prestigious Pulitzer prize in Public Service for coverage for an investigation of severe labour abuses tied to the supply of seafood to American supermarkets and restaurants. List of 2016 Pulitzer Prize Winners Books, Drama and Music Fiction: The Sympathizer by Viet Thanh Nguyen. Drama: Hamilton by Lin-Manuel Miranda. History: Custer’s Trials: A Life on the Frontier of a New America by T.J. Stiles. Biography: Barbarian Days: A Surfing Life by William Finnegan,. Poetry: Ozone Journal by Peter Balakian. Music: In for a Penny, In for a Pound by Henry Threadgill. Journalism Public Service: Associated Press. Breaking News Reporting: Los Angeles Times Staff. Investigative Reporting: Leonora LaPeter Anton and Anthony Cormier of the Tampa Bay Times and Michael Braga of the Sarasota Herald-Tribune. Explanatory Reporting: Christian Miller of ProPublica and Ken Armstrong of The Marshall Project. Local Reporting: Michael LaForgia, Cara Fitzpatrick and Lisa Gartner of the Tampa Bay Times. National Reporting: The Washington Post Staff. International Reporting: Alissa J. Rubin of The New York Times. Feature Writing: Kathryn Schulz of The New Yorker. Commentary: Farah Stockman of The Boston Globe. Criticism: Emily Nussbaum of The New Yorker. Pulitzer Prize: It honours the extraordinary work in US journalism, drama, literature and other areas. It also brings welcome attention and recognition to newspapers and websites.

18. Europe has become the world’s first region to wipe out Malaria, a mosquito-borne vetor disease with zero cases reported in the year 2015. It was revealed by the World Health Organization (WHO) in its World Malaria Report 2015. Particular region or country is declared Malaria free by WHO after it has zero locally acquired malaria cases for at least three consecutive years. Key Highlights of Report The number of malaria cases fell to zero from 90,712 between 1995 and 2015 in the countries of European region. Only 179 cases of malaria were reported in six countries in 2010. The last cases of malaria were reported in Tajikistan in 2014. The region was able to wipe out the deadly disease because of strong political commitment, improved detection and surveillance, mosquito control, cross-border collaboration. Until the end of World War II, the spread of Malaria was common in southern Europe, including Portugal, Italy, the Balkans and Greece. But the region was declared malaria free in 1975. In the year 2015, there were 214 million cases of the malaria across the world and it had killed around 438,000 people, most of them in sub-Saharan Africa. It should be noted that World leaders have committed to end the malaria epidemic by 2030 as one the goal of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development.

19. India and China have agreed to adhere to peaceful negotiations to settle the border issue and reach a fair, reasonable and mutually acceptable solution. Decision in this regard was taken during the annual 19th round of boundary talks between National Security Adviser (NSA) Ajit Doval and his Chinese counterpart Yang Jiechi at Beijing. Key facts Both the sides have discussed the vexed border dispute. They also had an extensive, deep discussion on the 3,488 km-long Line of Actual Control (LAC) which remains undemarcated resulting in tensions between the two sides. Besides the border issue, both sides also have a larger mandate to discuss all contentious bilateral, regional and international matters of mutual concern. The issue of China putting technical hold on India’s recent bid to bring about a UN ban on Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) chief Azhar for his involvement in the Pathankot terrorist attack was also discussed.

20. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for expansion of India-Chile Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) between both countries. Decision in this regard was taken by the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

21. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for operationalisation of new Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) at Tirupati, Andhra Pradesh. The operationalisation IISER Tirupati will commence from the Academic Year of 2015-16 from a transit or temporary campus.

22. Rahul Johri has been appointed as the first Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI). Mr. Johri will report to the BCCI secretary and shall be given freedom to work independently in BCCI’s set-up that was traditionally controlled by honorary office-bearers. In his new role he will be responsible for the smooth functioning of operations, stakeholder management of BCCI and building robust strategies for further promoting the sport of cricket. Prior to this appointment, Mr. Johri had served as Discovery Networks Asia Pacific’s executive vice-president and general manager for South Asia. He has two decades of rich experience in the media industry.

23. In recently released 2016 World Press Freedom Index (WPFI), India ranked 133rd out of 180 nations surveyed worldwide in terms of press freedom in 2015. In this edition, India with a score of 43.17 has jumped three spots from the 136th position it had in 2015. The Index was published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Key facts Top 10 Countries: Finland (Rank 1st), Netherlands (2nd), Norway (3rd), Denmark (4th), New Zealand (5th), Costa Rica (6th), Switzerland (7th), Sweden (8th), Ireland (9th) and Jamaica (10th). Finland with the score of 8.76 has retained its top spot for the sixth consecutive year. India’s Neighbours: Bhutan (94), Nepal (105), Afghanistan (120), Sri Lanka (141), Bangladesh (144), Pakistan (147) and China (176). The report has highlighted hat there has been a deep and disturbing decline in respect for media freedom at both the regional and global levels. About World Press Freedom Index (WPFI) WPFI is compiled and produced by France-based international non-governmental organization Reporters Without Borders (RWB), or Reporters Sans Frontières (RSF). It aims to promote and defend freedom of information and freedom of the press. The index ranks the performance of countries according to index calculated based upon various parameters. Some of these parameters include media pluralism and independence, respect for the safety and freedom of journalists, and the legislative, institutional and infrastructural environment in which the media operate.

24. The Union Cabinet has given its approval to Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Bhutan on Technical Cooperation in the field of benchmarking, capacity building and bilateral exchange in Infrastructure Engineering. Decision in this regard was taken by the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.

25. The RBL Bank (formerly Ratnakar Bank) became the first private sector bank in India to open dedicated branch for startups. The dedicated branch was inaugurated at Koramangala, Bengaluru by Nandan Nilekani, noted entrepreneur and former chairman of UIDAI.

26. United States (US) President Barack Obama has nominated Indian-American Geeta Pasi as the country’s next envoy to central African nation Chad. Ms. Pasi is a career member of the US Foreign Service, Class of Minister-Counsellor. She had served as the United States Ambassador to Djibouti from 2011 to 2014.

27. India and Mauritius have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote cooperation in traditional medicine and homeopathy The MoU envisages supply of traditional medicinal substances, exchange of experts, joint R&D and recognition of the traditional systems of health and medicine in both countries. It also aims at promotion and popularisation of the various Indian traditional systems which fall under AYUSH (Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sowa Rigpa & Homoeopathy. The Union AYUSH ministry also has recently signed similar MoUs with Malaysia, China, Trinidad and Tobago, Bangladesh, Hungary and Nepal.

28. Renowned Hollywood actress Doris Roberts passed away in Los Angeles in her sleep. She was 90. She was best known for playing meddling mother Marie Barone in US sitcom Everybody Loves Raymond (1996–2005).

29. World No 1 tennis player Novak Djokovic from Serbia has won the 2016 Laureus Sportsman of the Year Award. He has won it for second time after winning it in 2012. US tennis legend Serene Williams has won the 2016 Laureus Sportswoman of the Year Award. It was her fourth Laureus Awards after she won it in 2003, 2007 and 2010. The 2016 Laureus World Sports Awards ceremony for the first time was held in Berlin, Germany. The awards are dubbed as Oscar of the sports and are bestowed on sportspersons in different categories. 2016 Laureus World Sports Awardees Sportsman of the Year: Novak Djokovic (Tennis), Serbia. Sportswoman of the Year: Serena Williams (Tennis), United States. Team of the Year: New Zealand National Rugby team. Comeback of the Year: Dan Carter (Rugby), New Zealand. Breakthrough of the Year: Jordan Spieth (Golf), United States. Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability: Daniel Dias (Paralympic swimmer), Brazil. Action Sportsperson of the Year: Jan Frodeno (Triathelete), Germany. Sport for Good Award: Moving the Goalposts Laureus World Sports Lifetime Achievement Award: Niki Lauda (former Formula One racer), Austria. Spirit of Sport Award: Johan Cruyff (Football), Netherlands. About Laureus World Sports Awards It an annual award that honours remarkable sportspersons (men and women) around the world of sport. It is given by Laureus World Sports Academy since 2000. The awards are presented in 7 different categories with the potential for additional discretionary Awards given. Awards carry Laureus Statuette crafted by Cartier. The statue is representation of the striving human form against an engraved representation of the continents.

30. The Union Government has extended the Beti Bachao Beti Padho Scheme in additional 61 districts across 11 States and Union Territories with low Child Sex Ratio. It was announced by the Women and Child Development Minister Maneka Gandhi while addressing the function in New Delhi. About Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao Scheme The scheme is designed to address the issue of declining Child Sex Ratio and related issues of disempowerment of women through a life cycle continuum. The main objective is to prevent gender biased sex selective elimination by strict enforcement of laws with stringent punishment to violators. It was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2015 from Haryana in 100 districts of the country to address the issue of declining Child Sex Ratio. The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD), is the nodal agency for the implementation of the scheme.

31. The 14th meeting of the Foreign Ministers of the Russia, India and China (RIC) Forum have vowed to deepen cooperation in combating terrorism. The meeting was held in Moscow, Russia and was attended Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Union Minister of Foreign Affairs Sushma Swaraj, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of China Wang Yi took. Key highlights of 2016 RIC Forum The Ministers discussed various aspects of trilateral cooperation on global and regional issues. They pitched for progress in strengthening the international legal framework underlying the modern world order and neutralisation of common challenges. They also have pitched for setting up of a broad counter-terrorist front with the UN playing a central role and stepping up efforts to combat global drug threat. They also discussed on creating a new security and cooperation architecture in the Asia-Pacific region. They also exchanged views to the situation in the North Africa, Middle East including Syria, and the situation in Afghanistan and Ukraine. The Ministers have also decided to hold the next trilateral meeting in India. RIC Forum: It is a trilateral grouping of Russia, India and China that has met annually since 2002. In recent years, the RIC has functioned as a complement to other frameworks involving three countries and including the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

32. The Ceasefire between the Centre and the NSCN-IM (National Socialist Council of Nagaland- Isak Muivah) has been extended by another year i.e. till April 2017. In this regard, the ceasefire agreement was signed between the Union Government and GPRN/NSCN, one of the strongest factions of Nagaland. The sole purpose of the extension is to boost to the Naga peace process and bring long lasting peace in Nagaland. The signatories also agreed that the Ceasefire Ground Rules will subject to mutual review and amendment with involvement of both the parties. Background The Union Government and the insurgent group NSCN had entered into a ceasefire accord in 1997. Since then, they have continued with the peace process. The Union Government has also reached a ceasefire agreement with of NSCN Khaplang faction which has been banned under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act, 1967. In August 2015, NSCN-IM had entered into an historic Peace Accord (Framework Agreement) with Union government to bring lasting peace in Nagaland.

33. Maharashtra Government has decided to make it mandatory to have a hologram on every alcohol bottle manufactured and sold in the state in order to check sale of spurious liquor. Henceforth, no liquor bottle will be allowed to be sold in the state without the hologram. The decision was taken keeping in mind the 2015 tragedy at Malwani where about 100 people died after consuming spurious liquor. How it will work? It will be mandatory to paste polyester base track and trace hologram on every alcohol bottle. It will be supported by a mobile application that will be developed by the Government and will be made available at free of cost. When the mobile app is brought in contact with the hologram, it will immediately generate a green or red mark. The mark generated will indicate the buyer whether the liquor, wine, country made liquor, Indian Made Foreign Liquor (IMFL) is fake or genuine. Besides, this technique will also help prevent loss of revenue due to cheap liquor being imported into Maharashtra from neighbouring States.

34. The Union Government has leased a commemorative coin of 200 rupees and a circulation coin of 10 rupees on freedom fighter Tatya Tope. It was released by the Union Culture Minister Dr. Mahesh on the occasion of the Martyrdom Day of Tatya Tope in New Delhi. The Union Ministry of Culture has been celebrating the 200th Birth Anniversary of Tatya Tope during 2015-16 in association with State Government of Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh.

35. Maharashtra Government has banned digging of borewells beyond 200 feet in order to check the steep decline in ground water level across the state. It was announced by Water Supply and Sanitation Minister Babanrao Lonikar. State Government has taken this decision in the wake for severe drought and decreasing ground water level across various regions in the state. This ban will be implemented under the Maharashtra Groundwater Development and Management Act in order to control the excess water pumping through borewell. Henceforth, digging of borewell that violates prescribed rules will punishable offence. The violators of the rule would now face fine or even imprisonment.

36. Senior IPS officer Deepak Mishra has been appointed as Additional Director General in the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF). His appointment was cleared by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA). He will have tenure till November 2018 with effect from the date of assumption of charge of the post. Deepak Mishra is IPS officer of the 1984 batch of the Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory (AGMUT) cadre.

37. India, Afghanistan and Iran have finalized draft of the Chabahar Trilateral Agreement on Transport and Transit Corridors. The text of the draft was finalized at the second technical meeting of experts from the three countries in New Delhi. The agreement will be signed after completing necessary internal procedures in the three countries. Key features of Agreement The Agreement envisions trilateral cooperation for providing alternative access to seas to Afghanistan, inter alia for Afghanistan’s trade with India. When it will come into force it will significantly enhance utilization of Chabahar port, contribute to economic growth of landlocked Afghanistan, It will facilitate better regional connectivity including between India and connections to Afghanistan and Central Asia. The Agreement will be a strategic bulwark for greater flow of people and goods among the three countries as well as other countries in the region. Three parties also have agreed to establish a sub-committee within the framework of the agreement in order to provide protocols for transit, ports, customs issues and well as consular affairs.

38. Australia has won the 25th edition of Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament 2016 for record ninth time. In the final match played at Ipoh, Australia defeated India by 4-0 goals. With this India settled at the second position and was followed by New Zealand (defending champion) at the third position. This was the second time India had finished with the silver medal in seven final appearances. Earlier, Australia had won the Sultan Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament in 1983, 1996, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2011, 2013 and 2014. They also holds record of most titles win of this tournament. Final Rankings: Australia (1st rank), India (2nd), New Zealand (3rd), Malaysia (4th), Pakistan (5th), Canada (6th) and Japan (7th). About Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament It is an annual international men’s field hockey tournament held in Malaysia. Named after 9th king of Malaysia and ‘Father of Malaysian Hockey’ Sultan Azlan Shah. It was established in 1983 as biennial sporting event. It was converted into an annual event after 1998, following its growth and popularity.

39. The BRICS New Development Bank (NDB) has approved its first package of loans worth 811 million dollars for four renewable energy projects in Brazil, China, South Africa and India. The decision to approve the first loans was approved by the NDB board of governors on the sidelines of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Bank spring meetings in Washington DC, US. Key facts The NDB in its first loan tranche will provide $300 million to Brazil, $250 million to India, $180 million to South Africa and $81 million to China. These funds will be used in area of green and renewable energy projects with a combined capacity of 2.37MW together. On completion of these projects, they will help to reduce the amount of harmful emissions by 4 million tons annually. About New Development Bank The New Development Bank is a multilateral bank created by BRICS nations viz. Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. It had started its operations in July 2015 with initial authorized capital of $100 billion. It is headquartered in Shanghai, China. The goal of the bank is to fund infrastructure projects in emerging economies for sustainable development. In the NDB, each participant country has been assigned one vote, and none of the countries have veto power. Renowned Indian banker Kundapur Vaman Kamath is the President (first) of NDB.

40. The European Parliament has approved creation of a European passenger name records (PNR) system to combat terrorism The proposal in this regard was passed by 461 votes to 179 against. Now the EU member countries will have two years to turn it into national law. PNR is a joint system for security agencies to access airline passenger data on all flights to and from the EU. It will enable police and justice officials to systematically store the data of airline passengers travelling to, from and within the EU. PNR system will include name, travel dates, ticket details, itinerary, contact details, travel agent and seat number, means of payment and baggage information of the passengers. Background The creation of a European PNR system had gained momentum recently following 2015 Paris (France) terror attacks and followed by March 2016 attacks in Brussels (Belgium) which added further urgency. After these attacks, counter-terrorism officials from the European countries had strongly lobbied for years for the introduction of PNR system. They had argued that sharing data will help them trace suspicious itineraries which may further help in preventing terrorist attacks.

41. Every year World Heritage Day is being observed across the world on April 18. It is also known as International Day for Monuments and Sites. Objective: To create consciousness to preserve and protect the precious assets and cultural heritage across the world. It marks the need of shielding the historical monuments and sites located in every part of the world by making joint efforts at international level. 2016 Theme: ‘The Heritage of Sport’. It was decided by the International Council for Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in the backdrop of Rio Olympics 2016 to be hosted in August 2016 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Background The first world Heritage Day observed on April 18, 1982 by the International Council of Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) in Tunisia. It was approved in 1983 by UNESCO. The aim of this day is to make people aware about several awareness camps are organized across the world to protect the precious assets and cultural heritage across the world.

42. Gujarat government has appointed senior IPS officer Geeta Johri as the Director General of Police (DGP) of the state. With this she became the first female DGP of Gujarat. Her appointment comes after she was elevated to the post after the state DGP PC Thakur was transferred to centre as the Director General (DG) of Civil Defence and Home Guards on deputation.

43. Indian artistic gymnast Dipa Karmakar has created history by becoming the first Indian woman gymnast to qualify for Olympics. She achieved this feat after her strong performance at the final qualifying which helped her to book 2016 Rio Olympics Games berth to be held in August 2016. In the test event, she earned a total score of 52.698 points in the artistic gymnastics event. She has been listed as the 79th gymnast in the list of women’s artistic gymnasts who have qualified for the Rio Olympics. About Dipa Karmakar Born on 9 August 1993 in Agartala, Tripura. At 2014 Commonwealth Games held at Glasgow she had created history becoming the first Indian female gymnast to win medal (bronze) in history of the games. She also had won a bronze medal at the Asian Gymnastics Championships and had finished fifth at the 2015 World Artistic Gymnastics Championships. She is also one of the five women who have successfully landed on very difficult Produnova vault in competition.

44. The Indian Army conducted major battle exercise named as ‘Shatrujeet’ in the Thar Desert of Rajasthan near to the border with Pakistan. The sole purpose of the exercise was to evaluate the capability of the Indian Army and fine tune its proactive war strategy to respond swiftly to any threat to nation’s security. Key facts The 2016 Shatrujeet battle exercise was steered by the Mathura based 1 Corps, one of the three principle strike corps of the Indian Army. It aimed to evaluate the capability of the Indian Army to strike deep into enemy territory in an integrated air-land battle environment. It was an operation-oriented exercise that focused on validating integrated battle theatre fighting concept. It also incorporated the new-age technologies, weapon platforms and systems as well as long range precision targeting vectors. It was post preparatory training exercise manoeuvres at subordinate units and formation levels by conducting integrated operational manoeuvres. It mainly validated India Army’s operational plans in simulated high tempo battlefield environment and terrain. Background Indian Army at regular intervals undertakes such battle exercises at different levels to ensure forces are provided war-like situations and kept in high-state of battle readiness as part of so called Cold Start Doctrine. The doctrine involves the various branches of India’s military conducting offensive operations against enemy (mainly Pakistan) as part of unified battle groups. It would involve limited, rapid armoured thrusts, with infantry and necessary air support. Under it, the offensive operations must begin within 48 hours after orders have been issued. Such a limited response time would enable Indian forces to surprise their enemy. It is intended to allow India’s conventional forces to perform holding attacks in order to prevent a nuclear retaliation from the enemy.

45. Delhi Government has launched the second phase of odd-even car rationing scheme to check pollution in the national capital. The second phase will be from 15 April 2016 till 30 April 2016. The scheme aims at curbing vehicular pollution and reducing traffic congestion on the roads of NCR Delhi.

46. Jharkhand Government has launched Bhimrao Ambedkar Awas Yojana for widows to create equality and harmony in society, ensuring all round development enshrined in the Constitution. It was launched by Chief Minister Raghubar Das on the occasion of 125th birth anniversary of Dr. B R Ambedkar.

47. Supercomputer Param Kanchenjunga was unveiled at the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Sikkim. It has been named after Kangchenjunga mountain (8,586 m), the third highest mountain in the world which lies partly in Nepal and partly in Sikkim. It was formally unveiled by Sikkim Governor Shrinvas Patil at the NIT Sikkim campus at Ravangla in South Sikkim District. It is said that it most powerful and fastest supercomputer among all the 31 NITs and Sikkim NIT has secured a rare distinction of having such a supercomputer. Param Kanchenjunga has been jointly developed by Pune-based Centre for Development of Advanced Computing ‘C-DAC’ and the NIT Sikkim at a cost of three crore rupees. The supercomputer is expected to help achieve excellence in research and engineering education in the north-east region. Supercomputer: It is a computer that can do complete tasks faster than any other computer of its generation. It has high speed and memory and is usually thousands of times faster than ordinary personal computers.

48. The G20 countries including India have sought a crackdown on tax heavens, shell companies and terror financing in the wake of the ‘Panama Papers’ scandal. In this regard a communiqué was issued by G20 countries after meeting of its Finance Ministers and Governors of Central Banks on the sidelines of the annual Spring Meeting of the International Monetary Fund and the World Bank at Washington. Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Raghuram Rajan attended the meeting on behalf of India. Key highlights of G20 meeting G20 countries called for increasing financial transparency and sharing of key information in a timely manner to crackdown on tax heavens, shell companies and terror financing Focused on fully implementation of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) standards on transparency as an essential part for countries and their jurisdictions. Called on all countries to join its efforts including through swift and effective implementation of FATF standards. It also focused on the new Consolidated Strategy on Combating Terrorist Financing and provisions of the UN Security Council Resolution 2253. Called on countries which have not yet committed to implement the standard on automatic exchange of information by 2017 or 2018 to do so without delay. It also asked them to sign the Multilateral Convention.

49. National Capital of India, Delhi has been ranked 44th among the world’s 50 ‘future-ready economies cities’ that are embracing technology for growth. It was revealed by the recently released report ‘Future-Ready Economies Model’ by the Information Technology major Dell. Key facts The list is topped by San Jose, followed by San Francisco, Singapore, London, Washington DC, etc. These high-growth cities were evaluated on the parameters of human capital, infrastructure and commerce. The model scores large, high-growth global metropolitan areas based on attributes that enable people and organisations to access new tools and ideas that deliver better connectivity, better economic performance and a greater ability to attract talent. The cities were positioned in the list were evaluated along three dimensions human capital, infrastructure and commerce.

50.Iconic Indian woman boxer Mary Kom has been named as the International Boxing Association (AIBA) ambassador for Women’s World Championship. She is one of the eight ambassadors for the upcoming World Championship of AIBA scheduled from May 19 to 27, 2016 in Astana, Kazakhstan. The AIBA-appointed ambassadors for the World Championship also include Nicola Adams (Great Britain), Marlen Esparza (US), Adriana Arauja (Kazakhstan), Stanimira Petrova (Bulgaria) and Khadija Mardi (Morocco). The female officials chosen as ambassadors are Kheira Siki Yakoub (Algerian) and Jennifer Huggins (Canada).

51. The co-founder of Hero Cycles group Satyanand Munjal passed away in Ludhiana, Punjab. He was 99. He was popularly known as ‘mahatma’ Satyanand Munjal for being devoted to several social causes related to the Arya Samaj.

52. The Union Government has renamed Panagarh Air Force Base of Indian Air Force in West Bengal as ‘Air Force Station Arjan Singh’ in honour of the Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh. It was renamed on the occasion of 97th birthday of Arjan Singh. Air Officer Commander-in-Chief of the Eastern Air Command, Air Marshal C. Harikumar unveiled the rechristening plaque. This is first time in India’s defence history, a military installations has been named after individuals, especially when they are alive.