WBCS Current Affairs 31/07/2016 to 06/08/2016

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1. The Union Government has set the ambitious target to roll out of the Goods and Services Tax, (GST) from 1st April 2017. It was announced by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley after unveiling a detailed road map for GST implementation. This announcement was made after Rajya Sabha had passed The Constitution (122nd Amendment) (GST) Bill, 2014. How would be GST administered in India? There will be two components of GST – Central GST (CGST) and State GST (SGST) in order to comply with federal structure of India. Thus both Centre and States have authority to simultaneously levy GST across the value chain. GST will be levied on every supply of goods and services. States will levy and collect the State Goods and Services Tax (SGST) on all transactions within a State and Centre will levy and collect Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST). The credit of SGST paid on inputs will be allowed for paying the SGST on output. No cross utilization of credit would be permitted. Similarly, the input tax credit of CGST will be available for discharging the CGST liability on the output at each stage. What are the benefits of GST? For business and industry Uniformity of tax rates and structures: GST will ensure that indirect tax rates and structures are uniform across the country. Thereby it will increase certainty and ease of doing business i.e. make it tax neutral, irrespective of the choice of place of doing business in the country. Removal of cascading: The GST will ensure minimal cascading of taxes (i.e. tax on tax) as it will have a system of seamless tax-credits throughout the value-chain, and across boundaries of States. It will help to reduce hidden costs of doing business. Easy compliance: The GST regime will have a robust and comprehensive IT system. Therefore, all tax payer services such as registrations, payments, returns, etc. will be available to the taxpayers online. Thus it would make compliance easy and transparent. Improved competitiveness: It will reduce transaction costs of doing business that will eventually lead to an improved competitiveness for the trade and industry. Gain to manufacturers and exporters: The subsuming of major Central and State indirect taxes in GST would reduce the cost of locally manufactured goods and services. It will increase the competitiveness of Indian goods and services in the international market and give boost to Indian exports. For Central and State Governments Simple and easy to administer: GST will replace multiple indirect taxes at the Central and State levels into single regime. GST backed with a robust end-to-end IT system will be simpler and easier to administer than all other indirect taxes of the Centre and State levied so far. Better controls on leakage: The robust IT infrastructure of GST regime will result in better tax compliance that will curb leakages and incentivize tax compliance by traders. Higher revenue efficiency: GST will lead to higher revenue efficiency as it is expected to decrease the cost of collection of tax revenues of the Government. For the consumer Single and transparent tax proportionate to the value of goods and services: Under GST regime there will be only one tax from the manufacturer to the consumer. Thus, it will remove many hidden taxes leading to transparency of taxes paid to the final consumer. Relief in overall tax burden: The overall tax burden on most commodities will come down because of efficiency gains and prevention of leakages which will benefit consumers.

2. The Union Government has launched MAA (Mothers’ Absolute Affection), a nation-wide breast feeding programme. It was launched by Union Health Minister & Family Welfare J P Nadda along with Bollywood actress Madhuri Dixit who is brand ambassador of this campaign. Key Facts MAA is an intensified programme of the Union Health Ministry that aims to enhance optimal breastfeeding practices in the country. It seeks to create an enabling environment to ensure that mothers, husbands and families receive adequate information and support for promotion of breastfeeding. It has been launched in an attempt to bring undiluted focus on promotion of breastfeeding and provision of counselling services for supporting breastfeeding through health systems. The programme has been named ‘MAA’ to signify the support a lactating mother requires from family members and at health facilities to breastfeed successfully. The chief components of the Programme are (i) Community awareness generation, (ii) Strengthening inter personal communication through ASHA, (iii) Skilled support for breastfeeding at Delivery points in Public health facilities, and (iv) Monitoring and Award/recognition. The Union Health Ministry has allocated 30 crore rupees for the Programme and 4.3 lakh rupees for each district for implementing the various activities under MAA programme. Importance of Breastfeeding The practice of breastfeeding is one of the important natural interventions for child survival as it enhances immunity level in child and can greatly help to reduce the under-five mortality rate. Around 20% newborn deaths and 13% under-five deaths can be prevented by breastfeeding. Besides, breastfeeding can prevent child deaths associated with Diarrhoea and Pneumonia. Infants who are not breastfed are 15 times more likely to die from pneumonia and 11 times more to die from diarrhoea than children who are exclusively breastfed. Breastfed infant also have higher intelligence quotient.

3. China has successfully launched the first satellite dubbed as The Tiantong-01 for mobile telecommunication. It was launched on-board of the Long March-3B carrier rocket from Xichang Satellite Launch Centre. Key Facts The Tiantong-01 is the first satellite of China’s homemade satellite mobile telecom system. It is a key part of the country’s space information infrastructure. It will operate in a geosynchronous orbit (GEO) and shall establish a mobile network with ground facilities, providing services for China, Middle East, Africa and other areas. It is S-Band mobile communications satellite designed by China Academy of Space Technology (CAST) and its ground service will be operated by China Telecom. Its mobile communication system application subsystem was developed by Henan Communication Technology Co. Ltd. Long March-3B carrier rocket: It was produced by China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALVT). It was the 232nd flight of the Long March series carrier rockets, and the 36th launch of the Long March-3B.

4. The Union Government has set an inflation target of four per cent for the next five years i.e. till March 31, 2021. In this regard, Union Government will soon set-up Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) to adhere to the target till March 31, 2021. Backgroud This target was fixed after the Union Government and Reserve Bank of India (RBI) had reached an agreement on a monetary policy framework. The framework had had set the inflation target at four per cent, plus or minus two per cent. However, there was no legal backing to it. The Union Government in June 2016 also had notified rules for setting up the MPC giving effect to amendments in the RBI Act. What is Inflation targeting? Inflation targeting is a monetary policy in which a central bank estimates and makes public a projected or “target” inflation rate. After declaration of target, the central bank attempts to steer actual inflation towards the target through the use of interest rate changes and other monetary tools. The key advantage of a target is that it allows to recognise the short run trade-offs between inflation and growth. It also enables Central Bank to pursue the inflation target in the long run over the course of a business cycle.

5. The 31st edition of Summer Olympic Games opened in the Brazilian city of Rio de Janeiro. It was declared open by Acting Brazilian President Michel Temer at the Maracana Stadium. The theme of the 31st edition of Summer Olympic Games was “World peace and Environment“. Key Facts The 2016 Rio Olympics games are scheduled to take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 5 to 21 August 2016. It is officially known as the Games of the XXXI Olympiad. It is for first time the summer Olympics will be held in South American Continent and Brazil is hosting it for the first time. The opening ceremony was held at the Maracana Stadium and it witnessed different performances and events depicting rich blend of Brazilian styles, histories and artists. The events retraced the history of Brazil from the arrival of the Portugese, the African influence on its culture, the immigration of Arab and Japanese communities and the rise of great cities. India, which has fielded its biggest ever contingent of 120 sportspersons was led by flag-bearer and Olympic Gold medallist Abhinav Bindra.

6. Eminent Assamese litterateur Mahim Bora died due to old age problems in Guwahati, Assam. He was 92. He was a prolific short story writer and a poet. He had received the Sahitya Akademi award for his most popular work Edhani Mahir Hanhi in 2001.

7. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched a website (sachet.rbi.org.in) to curb illegal and unauthorised pooling of funds by unscrupulous firms. The website was launched by RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It will help people obtain information about entities allowed to collect deposits. Key features of Portal Facilitate filing, tracking of complaints relating to illegal and unauthorised pooling of funds by unscrupulous firms Provide information about whether any particular entity is registered with any regulator or is permitted to accept deposits. Help to enhance coordination among regulators and state government agencies to curb instances of unauthorised acceptance of deposits by unscrupulous entities. Incorporates regulations prescribed by all financial regulators that different entities have to follow.

8. Noted sports promoter and founder chairperson of Reliance Foundation, Nita Ambani was elected as an individual member of International Olympic Committee (IOC). With this, she becomes the first Indian woman to join the prestigious body which governs Olympic sports in the world. Key Facts Nita Ambani is only current active individual member of the IOC from India and shall serve at the high-profile world body until she attains the age of 70. She was elected at the 129th IOC Session held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil after being nominated in June 2016 by the IOC Executive Board. Sir Dorabji Tata was the first Indian representative in the IOC while Raja Randhir Singh was a member from 2000-2014 and is currently honorary member of the IOC. Nita Ambani spearheads all sports initiatives of Reliance Industries’, notably cricket, football, kabaddi, basketball, tennis and golf either through company, foundation or its joint ventures. About International Olympic Committee (IOC) The IOC is the supreme authority of the Olympic Movement headquartered at Lausanne, Switzerland. It shepherds success through a wide range of programmes and projects. It acts as a catalyst for collaboration between all parties of the Olympic family. It ensures the regular celebration of the Olympic Games, supports all affiliated member organisations of the Olympic Movement and strongly encourages, by appropriate means, the promotion of the Olympic values.

9. The Gujarat high court has quashed 10 percent reservation quota for the economically backward classes (EBCs). In this regard, the Court has declared The Gujarat Unreserved Economically Weaker Sections (Reservation of Seats in Educational Institutions in the State and of Appointments and Posts in Services under the State) Ordinance, 2016 unconstitutional. Key Facts The ordinance was termed as unconstitutional as the total reservation exceeds in the state exceeded the 50 percent cap set by the Supreme Court. The ordinance had provided 10 percent quota for EBCs in higher educational institutions and government jobs. Moreover, the HC also stated that there was no survey conducted to grant this ECB quota. Background In May 2016, the Gujarat Government had announced to implement 10 percent quota in admission for students belonging to EBCs with effect from the academic year i.e. 2016-17. This quota was additional to the existing reservations for SCs, STs and OBCs. It had exceeding the cap set by the Supreme Court.

10. The United States declared Pakistan based Jamaat-ur-Ahrar (JuA) as a ‘terror group’ by adding it to its list of global terrorists. This declaration triggers sanctions against the terrorist faction that has staged multiple attacks on civilians, religious minorities and soldiers. Besides anyone who supports Jamaat-ur-Ahrar could have his assets frozen by the US Government.

11. The Delhi High Court has ruled that the National Capital Territory (NCT) of Delhi continues to be a Union Territory (UT) under the administrative control of the Lt Governor (LG). Ruling in this regard was given HC bench of Chief Justice G Rohini and Justice Jayant Nath. It brings an end to tussle between the cabinet form of governance in Delhi and the Lieutenant Governor. The hearing held that Delhi continues to be UT even after Constitution was amended to create National Capital Territory (NCT). In matters which in which assembly can make laws, the Ministry’s decisions should be communicated to LG and should be implemented only if LG agrees. Delhi Government’s decisions to probe alleged irregularities in the functioning DDCA and CNG fitness scam as illegal since these orders were issued without seeking the concurrence of Lt Governor. Besides its policy directions to electricity regulatory commission for compensation to people for disruption in power supply was also declared illegal. Delhi High Court’s hearing was based on reading of Article 239 and Article 239AA of the Constitution together along with the provisions of the Government of NCT of Delhi Act, 1991 and the Transaction of Business of the Government of NCT of Delhi Rules, 1993 Article 239: It provides that every Union territory shall be administered by the President acting, to such extent as he thinks fit. He administers UT through an administrator to be appointed by him. It provides to the President the power to appoint a Governor as the administrator of the UT. Article 239AA: It provides special provisions stating the UT of Delhi shall be called the NCTD. There shall be a Legislative Assembly for the NCT and the seats in such Assembly shall be filled by members chosen by direct election from territorial constituencies in the NCT.

12. The Rajya Sabha has unanimously passed The Constitution (122nd Amendment) (GST) Bill, 2014 to introduce the goods and services tax (GST). With this passage of bill, India took giant step in structural indirect taxation reform and paved way for the concept of one nation, one tax. Earlier the Bill was passed in Lok Sabha in May 2015. However, now the Bill will again go back to the Lok Sabha to incorporate the few amendments approved by the Rajya Sabha. Note: The Constitution (122nd Amendment) (GST) Bill, 2014 will enter into the statute book as The Constitution (101st Amendment) Bill, 2016. What is GST? GST is single indirect tax for the whole nation, which will make India one unified common market. It is a single tax on the supply of goods and services, right from the manufacturer to the consumer. GST is essentially a tax only on value addition at each stage i.e. credits of input taxes paid at each stage will be available in the subsequent stage of value addition. Thus, the final consumer will bear only the GST in the supply chain charged by the last dealer with set-off benefits at all the previous stages. Purpose of GST GST aims to bring uniform indirect tax regime throughout the country by subsuming central and state indirect taxes into single indirect tax. It also seeks to enhance fiscal federalism by removing indirect tax barriers across states and integrate the country into a common market, boosting government revenue and reducing business costs. Which indirect taxes will subsume into GST? At the Central level: (i) Central Excise Duty, (ii) Additional Excise Duty, (iii) Service Tax, (iv) Additional Customs Duty (also known as Countervailing Duty) (v) Special Additional Duty of Customs. At the State level: (i) State Value Added Tax (VAT) or Sales Tax, (ii) Octroi and Entry tax, (iii) Purchase Tax, (iii) Luxury tax, and (iv) Taxes on lottery, betting and gambling (v) Entertainment Tax (other than the tax levied by the local bodies) (vi) Central Sales Tax (levied by the Centre and collected by the States). Key changes proposed to the Constitution (122nd Amendment) Bill, 2014 Clause 2014 Bill Amendments in 2016 Bill Additional 1% tax on inter-State trade It will be levied by Centre in the course of inter-State trade. It will be directly assigned to the States from where the supply originates. This provision has been deleted Compensation to States Parliament may, by law, provide for compensation to states for any loss of revenues for a period which may extend to 5 years. It will be based on the recommendations of the GST Council. This implies that Parliament may decide (i) whether it wants to provide compensation;(ii) time period for which it can provide such compensation, up to 5 years. Parliament must by law, provide for compensation to states for any loss of revenues, for a period which may extend to 5 years. This would be based on the recommendations of the GST Council. This implies that (i) Parliament must provide compensation to states and (ii) compensation cannot be provided for more than 5 years, but Parliament may decide a shorter time period. Dispute resolution The GST Council may decide modalities to resolve disputes arising out of its recommendations. The GST Council to establish mechanism to adjudicate any dispute arising out of its recommendations. Disputes can be between: (i) centre and states vs. one or more states; (b) centre vs. one or more states; (c) state vs. state. It makes mandatory for a standing mechanism to resolve disputes. Replacement of the term IGST The GST Council will make recommendations on the apportionment of the Integrated Goods and Services Tax (IGST). However, IGST was not defined in the bill. It replace the term IGST with ‘goods and services tax levied on supplies in the course of inter-State trade or commerce’. The states’ share of the IGST shall not form a part of the Consolidated fund of India. Inclusion of CGST and IGST in tax devolution to states States’ share of IGST will be distributed between the Centre and States. CGST and the Centre’s share of IGST will be distributed between the Centre and States.

13. Singer Shubha Mudgal has been selected for the prestigious the 23rd Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award 2016. She will be bestowed with this award for her outstanding contribution towards the promotion of communal harmony, peace and goodwill. About Shubha Mudgal Shubha Mudgal is a well-known Indian singer of Hindustani classical music, Thumri, Khayal, Dadra and popular Indian pop music. She was also awarded the 1996 National Film Award for Best Non-Feature Film Music Direction for ‘Amrit Beej’. She was honoured with Padma Shri in 2000. About Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award The Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award is given on 20 August i.e. the occasion of the birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi, former Prime Minister of India. The award was instituted by All India Congress Committee (AICC) of the Indian National Congress Party in 1992. The award carries a citation and cash award of Rs 10 lakh. It was instituted to commemorate the lasting contribution made by Rajiv Gandhi to promote peace, communal harmony and fight against violence. Former recipients are Mother Teresa, Mohd Yunus, Lata Mangeshkar, Ustad Bismillah Khan, Sunil Dutt and Ustad Amjad Ali Khan etc.

14. Aadhar-linked eSignature facility dubbed as eSignDesk was launched by LegalDesk, a Bengaluru based start-up in the online legal documentation business. eSignDesk based on Aadhaar platform it is actually an initiative of the Union Government aimed at allowing all citizens (with Aadhaar) to remotely sign any document. Key Features of eSignDesk eSignDesk is the instant signing feature. It saves both time and money and also provides security as nobody can forge this signature unlike wet signatures. The users of this facility need to have a registered mobile number associated with the Aadhaar card. It also deters fraud and ensures that the content of the document also cannot be tampered or replicated (forged). The documents signed electronically using it will be legally valid in the country. It will take digital signatures to the masses beyond companies and corporates.

15. The Union Cabinet has approved the Motor Vehicle (Amendment) Bill, 2016 to improve road safety scenario in the country. The bill seeks to amend Motor Vehicles Act (MVA), 1988 and proposes to hefty penalties against violations of road safety rules as a deterrent measure. Key Features of the Bill Changes in Parent law: It amends existing 68 sections of MVA, 1988 which has total 223 sections. It proposes addition of 28 new sections. It deletes Chapters 10 and replaces Chapter 11 provisions with new set of provisions to simplify third party insurance claims and settlement process. Compensation: Increases compensation for Hit & Run cases to Rs. 2 lakh from Rs.25000. Adds provision for payment of compensation in road accidents fatalities upto Rs. 10 lakh. Role of states: It permits states to grant exemptions in Stage carriage and contract carriage permits for promoting rural transport, last mile connectivity, public transport and for road safety and passenger convenience. Permits state Government to specify a multiplier to be applied to each fine under this Act and such modified fine. The multiplier must be not less than one and not greater than ten, Allows State Government to regulate the activities in a public place of pedestrians and such means of transport. e-Governance: It focuses on improving delivery of services to the stakeholders using e-Governance. It enables (i) online learning licenses, (ii) increases period of driving licenses validity, (iii) Do away with the requirements of educational qualifications for transport licenses etc. Vahan & Sarathi platforms: Proposes to create National Register for Vehicle registration and National Register for Driving Licence through “Sarathi” and “Vahan” platforms. This will facilitate uniformity of the process across the country and bring harmony of the registration and licensing process. Offences committed Juveniles: The owner or guardian will be deemed guilty in cases of offences by the Juveniles. Juvenile will be tried under JJ Act and the registration of Motor Vehicle will be cancelled. Other Provisions: (ii) Registration at the end of the dealer will be enabled and restrictions will be imposed on temporary registration. (ii) Proposes increased penalties against traffic violations as deterrent for road safety (iii) Proposes stricter provisions in respect of offences like drunken driving, driving without licence, juvenile driving, over-speeding, overloading etc. (iv) Proposes stricter provisions for helmets along with provisions for electronic detection of violations. (v) Good Samaritan guidelines have been incorporated to help the road accident victims. (vi) Proposes an automated fitness testing for the transport vehicles with effect from 1st October 2018. Its mandate is to reduce corruption in the Transport Department while improving the road worthiness of the vehicle. (vii) Proposes penalties for deliberate violation of safety and environmental regulations as well as spare part suppliers and body builders. Comment The proposed amendments to MVA, 1988 mainly focuses on issues relating to improving road safety, citizens’ facilitation while dealing with the Transport Department. It also focuses on strengthening rural transport, public transport, last mile connectivity automation and computerization (e-Governace) and enabling online services. Background In India every year 5 lakh road accidents are reported in which 1.5 lakh people lose their lives. To address the issue of road safety, the Union Government had proposed a draft Road Transport & Safety Bill earlier. However, most of the States had expressed reservations. To address the reservations of states the Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways constituted a Group of Transport Ministers (GoM) of the States. The GoM was headed by Yoonus Khan, Transport Minister of Rajasthan held three meetings in which total of 18 Transport Ministers from different states had participated. The GoM had recommended that Union Government should immediately bring amendments to the present Motor Vehicle Act, 1988 to address the issue of road safety and improving transport scenario.

16. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for making suitable amendments in the Central List of OBCs (Other Backward Classes) applicable to Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. This decision has been taken as per the recommendations of the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC). Key Facts The suitable amendments in the Central List of OBCs will be done by inclusion/deletion of castes/communities applicable to Andhra Pradesh and newly formed State of Telangana. NCBC has recommended total of 35 changes in respect of Andhra Pradesh and also suggested 86 New Entries in respect of Telangana. The changes will enable the persons belonging to these communities in both states to avail the benefits of reservation in Government services as well as in Central Educational Institutions. Besides, these communities will also become eligible for benefit under the various welfare schemes, scholarships etc. of the Union Government. Background The Section 9 (Functions of the Commission) of the NCBC Act, 1993 empowers NCBC to examine requests for inclusion of any class of citizens as a backward class in the lists. In this regard, NCBC hears complaints of over-inclusion or under-inclusion of any backward class in such lists and tenders such advice to the Union Government. The NCBC Act, 1993 also stipulates that the advice of the Commission shall ordinarily be binding upon the Union Government. So far based on recommendation of the NCBC a total of 2401 Entries for inclusion, including its synonyms, sub-castes, etc. in the Central List of OBCs have been notified in 24 States and 6 Union Territories.

17. The Union Cabinet has approved the rates for Spectrum Usage Charge (SUC) for various bands of spectrum for which auction are going to be conducted shortly. With this approval the path is clear for issuance of the Notice Inviting Application (NIV) for spectrum auction by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). SUC is the charge that telecom firms have to pay the government every year. The Union Government earns about Rs.7,000 crore annually from it. SUC prescribed by Cabinet SUC in 700, 800, 900, 1800, 2100, 2300 & 2500 MHz band in the forthcoming auction will be charged at 3% rate of Adjusted Gross Revenue (AGR). It excludes the revenue from wire-line services. The weighted average will be derived by sum of product of spectrum holdings and applicable SUC rate divided by total spectrum holding. The Weighted Average Rate will be determined operator wise for each service area. It will be assigned to an operator in all access spectrum bands obtained in 2010 auction. The amount of SUC has been derived after taking into consideration the spectrum acquired in the coming auction. It has excluded the spectrum in 2300/2500 MHz band acquired prior to 2015-16. It will be treated as the floor amount of the SUC to be paid by the operators. Comment This will facilitate to move to a transparent, simple and flat ad-valorem SUC regime in the telecom sector. It will be done in accordance with the law and avoid creative accounting to bypass the revenues. It is considered as step towards a uniform rate for all players.

18. The Egyptian-born Nobel-winning scientist Ahmed Zewail passed away in the United States. He was 70. Mr Zewail had won the Nobel Prize in Chemistry in 1999 for his pioneering work in femtochemistry. He is the first Arab Scientist to win the Nobel Prize.

19. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for signing of new Air Services Agreement (ASA) between India and Lao People’s Democratic Republic (Lao PDR). Decision in this regard was taken in the union cabinet meeting chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. Key Facts ASA is the basic legal framework for any air operation between the two countries Under the agreement, the designated airlines of the two countries will have equal and fair opportunity to operate the agreed air services on specified routes. The Agreement is expected to spur greater investment, trade, tourism and cultural exchange between two countries and also bring developments in the civil aviation sector. It will provide enabling environment for seamless and enhanced air connectivity by providing commercial opportunities to carriers of both sides ensuring greater safety and security.

20. Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist Chairperson (CPN-MC) Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ (61) was elected as the 39th Prime Minister of Nepal He was the sole claimant to the post of prime minister after then Prime Minister K P Oli had resigned in July 2016 following political turmoil. He secured 363 in favour and 210 against. He will be second Prime Minister of Nepal under the newly adopted secular, republic and federal Constitution. This will be his second stint as the Prime Minister of Nepal after he had served earlier from 2008 to 2009. Background Then Prime Minister K P Oli had tendered his resignation after two key ruling alliance partners -Madhesi People’s Rights Forum-Democratic (MPRFD) and Rastriya Prajatantra Party (RPP) had withdrawn support to the no-confidence motion tabled against him by the Nepali Congress and the CPN-Maoist Centre. About Pushpa Kamal Dahal Born on 11 December 1954 in Dhikur Pokhari, Nepal. He is also known as Prachanda. He is chairman of the Communist Party of Nepal (Maoist-Centre) [CPN (M-C)]. He led a guerrilla war against the government and had launched a communist insurgency in 1996. He is also widely known by his nom de guerre “Prachanda”, a name he went by during his guerrilla days.

21. The seventh meeting of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Immigration Authorities was held in Islamabad, Pakistan. Pakistan’s Director General Immigration and Passports Usman A. Bajwa was unanimously elected as Chairman had chaired the meeting. Key Highlights of meeting It reviewed different areas to maximize the potential of visa exemption scheme launched among the member countries in 1992. It also deliberated on development of security software for SAARC visa exemption scheme (SVES) and immigration matters. This software would help to transform the existing manual system of the scheme into an online visa application system. It will have a central database that will provide all member states with real-time and secure information. SAARC visa exemption scheme (SVES) The SVES was launched in 1992 to liberalise visa regime the region by facilitating people to people contacts, among the peoples of SAARC countries. It provides certain categories of dignitaries a Special Travel document which exempts them from visas to travel within the region for the specified time period. The objective of SVES is to streamline the processes and facilitate business community, cultural representatives and officials from member states availing this facility. It is being implemented among SAARC member countries in 24 categories including dignitaries, Parliamentarians, Senior Officials, businessmen, journalists and sports persons etc. Under it, Visa Stickers are issued by the respective member states to the entitled categories of that particular country which has validity for one year.

22. The Parliament has passed the Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Amendment Bill after it was unanimously approved by Rajya Sabha. The comprehensive amendment bill seeks to amend and strengthen Benami Transaction (Prohibition) Act, 1988 in terms of legal and administrative procedure to curb domestic black money. Key Features of Bill The Bill seeks to (i) Amend the definition of benami transactions to widen the scope for legal action (ii) Specify penalties for entering into benami transactions and (iii) establish adjudicating authorities and Appellate Tribunal to deal with benami transactions. It add other transactions which qualify as benami, such as property transactions where: (i) the owner is not aware or denies knowledge of the ownership of the property, (ii) transaction is made in a fictitious name (iii) person providing the consideration for the property is not traceable. The Bill also adds provisions to establish an Appellate Tribunal in order to hear appeals against any orders passed by the Adjudicating Authority. Appeals against orders of the Appellate Tribunal will lie to the high court. The Bill specifies the penalty for providing false information. The punishment includes rigorous imprisonment ranging from 6 months up to 5 years, and a fine which may extend to 25% of the fair market value of the benami property. It also intends to effectively prohibit benami transactions and consequently prevent circumvention of law through unfair practices. It empowers the Union Government to confiscate benami property by following due procedure. Therefore it promotes equity across all citizens. The Bill provides immunity under the Benami Act to those who declare their benami properties under income declaration scheme. Comment In recent years the Union Government has taken various measures to curb the black money and the proposed legislation is one of them. It has been framed to tackle the menace black money by creating fear of law. However, the law does not cover benami property which is outside the country under it as it will be deemed as black money.

23. Japan’s cabinet has approved an economic stimulus package worth 275 billion dollars in attempt kick-start the economy and boost growth of the world’s third-largest economy. Decision in this regard was Japanese Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in Tokyo. The Japanese government expects that this package will boost gross domestic product (GDP) by 1.3%. Key Facts The economic stimulus package of measures aims at tackling deflation and strengthening the national economy of Japan. It includes increase expenditure for the national and local governments as well as significant investments in the country’s infrastructure. It also includes in a supplementary budget, which will be considered by an extraordinary session of Parliament starting in September. It also will provide support of small and medium-sized enterprises in Japan over the next two years. More than half of package sum has been earmarked for the current fiscal year. The package also includes spending on reconstruction of disaster zones, including parts of north-eastern Japan which were devastated by 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Background Japan’s economy, which is the third largest economy (in terms of nominal GDP) in the world after US and China, has been affected by stagnation and slow economic growth. In order to revive the economy Japanese government under the Prime Minister Sinzo Abe already had announced series of measures to halt economic stagnation. In 2012, Japanese government had announced series measures such as structural reforms, monetary easing and fiscal stimulus as part of the plan dubbed as Abenomics.

24. American ice hockey Olympic champion Angela Ruggiero was elected as the new chair of the International Olympic Committee (IOC’s) Athletes’ Commission. She was appointed by IOC President Thomas Bach during joint meeting between IOC executive board and IOC athletes’ commission. She will be replace Claudia Bokel. About Angela Ruggiero She is a former US ice hockey player. She has played more for the US ice hockey team than any other woman or male player. Prior to this appointment she was serving as Vice-Chair of the IOC Athletes’ Commission. In her ice hockey career, she has played in 10 Women’s World Championships and won four Gold medals and six Silver. She had retired US’s national hockey team in December 2011. She has authored her autobiography about her ice hockey experiences called Breaking the Ice. She was inducted as member of the Hockey Hall of Fame Class of 2015. She is only the fourth woman and second American woman ice hockey player to be honoured with it. About IOC Athletes’ Commission The IOC Athletes’ Commission is a nodal body for the purpose of representing athletes in the International Olympic Committee (IOC). It was established in 1981. Its primary function is to serve as the link between active athletes and the IOC.

25. The Parliament has passed the Institutes of Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2016 to set up six new Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs). The Bill seeks to amend the Institutes of Technology Act, 1961 to add six new IITs as institutions of national importance. Key Features of Bill Addition of six new IITs in Palakkad (Kerala), Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh), Goa, Dharwar (Karnataka), Bhilai (Chhattisgarh) and Jammu (Jammu and Kashmir). Bring the Indian School of Mines (ISM), Dhanbad (Jharkhand) within the ambit of the parent Act. All these institutions will be declared as institutions of national importance. Until the statutes in relation to IIT (ISM), Dhanbad are made under the parent Act, the statutes applicable to IIT Roorkee will apply to it. The Institutes of Technology Act, 1961 declares certain Institutes of Technology as institutions of national importance.

26. Rajasthan has become the first state in the country to approve sewage and waste water policy. The first of its kind policy was approved by the State Cabinet meeting presided by Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje in Jaipur. Key Facts Under this policy, all district headquarters, heritage cities, and cities in the state which have more than one lakh population will be included. Waste water treated under it will be used in irrigation and agricultural work. The requirement of next 30 years will be covered in this poilcy. It will be compulsory for every house in the state to connect with sewage system in those cities which have 100% sewage system in next five years.

27. Technocrat Anant Maheshwari was appointed as the President of Microsoft India, a subsidiary of US based software giant Microsoft Inc. He will join Microsoft India in September 2016 and will take over operations of the company from January 2017. He will succeed Bhaskar Pramanik who retires in March 2017. In his new role in Microsoft India, Maheshwari will be responsible for all of Microsoft’s product, service and support offerings across India.

28. Translator and artist Anita Gopalan was awarded the 2016 PEN/Heim Translation Fund Grants for her English translation of Hindi novel Simsim written by Geet Chaturvedi. Gopalan is the second Indian translator to be selected for the grant. She will be honoured at the 2017 PEN Literary Awards Ceremony in New York in February 2017. Novel Simsim: It narrates the clash between two Indias’, i.e. one old and traditional and the other modern and new driven by consumerism and corporate greed. It was published in 2008 and is recognized for its groundbreaking contribution to contemporary Hindi fiction.

29. The Union Government has capped the prices of 24 essential drugs used for treatment of cancer, HIV, bacterial infections, anxiety and cardiac conditions. In this regard, the Drug pricing regulator National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) has issued an order. It revised ceiling prices of 24 scheduled formulations of schedule-I under Drugs (Price Control) Amendment Order, 2016. With this cost of these 24 essential drugs has been reduced by an average of around 25 per cent. Besides, NPPA also capped the retail price of 31 formulations under Drug Prices Control Order (DPCO), 2013. Background The Union Government through NPPA fixes prices of essential drugs based on simple average of all medicines in a particular therapeutic segment, having sales of more than 1%. Besides, it also monitors the maximum retail prices of all the drugs and companies are allowed to hike prices of non-scheduled drugs by up to 10% in a year. NPPA decides the ceiling prices essential medicines under The Drug (Prices Control) Order 2013. So far it covers 680 formulations. About National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) NPPA is nodal government regulatory agency that controls the prices of pharmaceutical drugs in India. It functions under the aegis of Union Ministry of Chemical and Fertiliser. It advices Union Government in matters relate to drug policies and pricing. Besides, it also renders advice to the Union Government on changes/ revisions in the drug policy. What are Essential medicines? Essential medicines are those that satisfy the priority health care needs of the country’s population. They are listed with reference to the levels of healthcare namely primary, secondary and tertiary. They are generally based on the country’s disease burden, priority health concerns, affordability concerns etc. In India National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) formed in 2011 decides the essential medicines. The list is prepared by the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The NLEM is a dynamic list and is reviewed every 3 years to include or exclude drugs as relevant to the newest medical innovations and aligned to the current market competition.

30. Senior Indian Revenue Service (IRS) officer Rani Singh Nair has been appointed as Chairperson (Chairman) of Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). Her appointment was confirmed by Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) headed by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi. She will be in office till October 31, 2016 and shall succeed then acting chairman Atulesh Jindal who retired on 30 July 2016. About Rani Singh Nair She is 1979-batch IRS officer of the Income Tax cadre. Prior to this appointment she was working as member (Legislation and Computerisation) at CBDT. She was been instrumental in framing the procedures and protocols that led to the roll-out of the ambitious Income Declaration Scheme (IDS) which aims at bringing undisclosed income and assets into tax net. About Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) CBDT is nodal policy-making body of the Income Tax (IT) department under the Union Finance Ministry. It is also the supreme body in India for framing policies related to direct taxes. It is a statutory authority established under The Central Board of Revenue Act, 1963. The composition of CBDT includes Chairman and six members.

31. The Parliament has passed the National Institutes of Technology, Science Education and Research (Amendment) Bill, 2016. The bill was first passed in Lok Sabha in July 2016 and later in Rajya Sabha in August 2016. Now the bill will go for presidential assent as per Article 111 of Constitution. Key Facts The Bill seeks to establish the National Institute of Technology (NIT), Andhra Pradesh as an institute of national importance. The NIT, Andhra Pradesh will be established under the National Institutes of Technology, Science Education and Research (NITSER) Act, 2007. The NIT will be deemed as an institute of national importance status as on August 20, 2015, the day on which the Union government approved its establishment.

32. The National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) has given clean chit to wrestler Narsingh Yadav in the doping case. With this he can participate in 2016 Rio Olympics. Narsingh Yadav was given clean chit after the NADA disciplinary panel exonerated him from charges of violating anti-doping rules of NADA. It was found that the wrestler was a victim of sabotage done by a competitor and there is no fault and negligence on Narsingh Yadav’s part in case of doping. Background Narsingh Yadav had tested positive for a banned anabolic steroid methandienone in the out-of-competition doping tests conducted by NADA. Both of his test samples were tested positive for methandienone after they were collected at the National camp in Sonepat, Haryana. After this incident, he was replaced by Parveen Rana to save India’s quota in 2016 Olympics in the 74kg freestyle category of Wrestling. Metandienone (C20H28O2): It is an orally active anabolic steroid that binds and activates the androgen receptor. It increases protein synthesis, muscle strength and glycogenolysis over a short space of time. It is popular among bodybuilders.

33. The severe tropical typhoon Nida (also known as Cariana in Philippines) made landfall near Dapeng Peninsula in China’s Guangdong Province. Gale-force wind with up to 150 kilometers per hour speed and heavy rain followed the tropical typhoon. However, it showed signs of weakening after making landfall. The Chinese State Oceanic Administration has issued a red alert for ocean waves and storm tides caused due to typhoon. Sea waves as high as 11 meters have been witnessed in the northern South China Sea. The tropical typhoon Nida made landfall after battering the Philippines. It was caused by a tropical depression that had developed about 1,020 km to the east-southeast of Manila, Philippines. The cyclonic system was located within a favorable environment for development of cyclone with low vertical wind shear and very warm sea surface temperatures.

34. The Union Government has constituted the District Development Coordination and Monitoring Committee (DDCMC) for effective development and coordination of Central Government’s programme. It will be known as DISHA and first meeting will be held on August 13, 2016. It will monitor the implementation of 28 schemes and programmes of Union Ministry of Rural Development and other Ministries to promote synergy and convergence for greater impact. Key Facts The main purpose of the DISHA is to coordinate with Central and State and local Panchayat Governments. It has been created for effective coordination and development of Central Government’s programme for infrastructure development or Social and human resource development. The Chairperson of the committee will be the senior most Member of Parliament (Lok Sabha) elected from the district, nominated by the Union Ministry of Rural Development. It will ensure the participation of people’s representative at all levels and successful implementation of flagship programme of central government. Terms of references of DISHA Ensure that all Central Government programmes are implemented in accordance with the guidelines. Look into complaints and alleged irregularities received in the implementation of the programmes. In this regard it will have authority to summon and inspect any record. Refer any matter for enquiry to the District Collector or CEO of the Zilla Panchayat and Project Director of DRDA (or Poverty Alleviation Unit). Suggest suitable action to be taken in accordance with the rules which should be acted upon by District Collector or CEO within 30 days. Closely review the flow of funds including the funds allocated, funds released by both Union Government and the State. It will also review utilization and unspent balances under each Scheme.

35. The Union Railway Ministry has flagged off the maiden broad gage train service dubbed as ‘Tripura Sundari Express’ from Agartala (Tripura) to Delhi. It was flagged off by Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu. With this, the landlocked north eastern state of Tripura entered the broad gauge railway map of the country. Key Facts The ‘Tripura Sundari Express’ will run weekly between Anand Vihar (Delhi) and Agartala (Tripura). The train service will cover distance of 2461 kms in 46 hours and 50 minutes. It will have commercial stoppages at 16 stations. The train will leave Agartala for Anand Vihar (Delhi) every Thursday and will leave Anand Vihar for the return journey every Monday. Besides, the Railway Minister also laid the foundation stone of the Agartala-Akhaura International Rail link Project (India–Bangladesh Board Gauge Rail link Project) along with Bangladesh Railway Minister Mazibul Hoque. Background The ambitious India–Bangladesh Board Gauge Rail link Project was mooted in 2012 after both countries signed a MoU in February 2013. Under this MoU, both countries had decided to create 15.06km railway line of which 10km falls in Bangladesh. India will bear entire expenditure of Rs.968 crore of this project. This project will be part of the trans-Asian rail connectivity and play an important role in connecting Sabroom, southern most border city of Tripura with Chittagong international sea port which is just 75 km.

36. The Patna Pirates have won the fourth edition of STAR Sports-ProKabaddi League by defeating Jaipur Pink Panthers. With this win Patna Pirates has become first team to defend its title which they won in the third season in March 2016. Key Facts In the final match played at Gachibowli Stadium, Hyderabad (Telangana) the defending champion defeated Jaipur Pink Panthers by 37-29 score. The Puneri Paltan was placed at the third place in this edition after they defeated Telugu Titans by 40-35 score. Women’s Section: Storm Queens have won inaugural edition of the Women’s Challenge of Pro Kabaddi League. In the final match they defeated Fire Birds by 24-23 score. About Pro Kabaddi League (PKL) PKL is a professional Kabaddi (indigenous sport) league based on the format of the Indian Premier League (IPL) T20 cricket tournament. It is known as the Star Sports Pro Kabaddi for sponsorship reasons. It is currently managed by Mashal Sports. The first edition of the tournament was played in 2014 with eight franchises representing various cities in India. It was won by Jaipur Pink.

37. Justice Iqbal Ahmed Ansari has been sworn-in as the 39th Chief Justice of Patna High Court. He was administered oath to the office by Bihar Governor Ramnath Kovind as per Article 219 of constitution at a function in Raj Bhawan, Patna. He will retire on October 29, 2016.

38. India is going to host 2016 Kabaddi World Cup scheduled to be held in October 2016. It was announced by the International Kabaddi Federation (IKF). In this edition of World Cup 12 international teams are going to participate. They are US, India, UK, Australia, Canada, Poland, Iran, Pakistan, Bangladesh, South Korea, Japan and Kenya. Star Sports has been announced as the official broadcaster of the World Cup. Kabaddi became a part of Asian Games in 1990 and India has won all the gold medals since. In recent times the popularity of sport is growing fast and also had made breakthrough on a global stage ProKabaddi League. About Kabaddi Kabaddi is a contact sport that had originated in ancient India. Kabaddi is an umbrella term which encompasses various forms of the game including International rules Kabaddi. It is the national game of Bangladesh and is known as hadudu. In India, it is the state game of Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh and Punjab It also encompasses similar sports known by their regional names in Indian states such as chedugudu in Andhra Pradesh, sadugudu in Tamil Nadu and hututu in Maharashtra.

39. Prime Minister Narendra Modi flagged off the ‘Run for Rio’, an event to encourage the Indian contingent at the 2016 Rio Olympics beginning on August 5, 2016. The 5km run was flagged off from Major Dhyan Chand National Stadium to the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium in New Delhi. In this event thousands of school children and youths had participated to express the nation’s support to the 119 Indian athletes who have qualified for the Rio Olympics. The event was organised by Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports. Prime Minister also released the Olympic Brochure. In his address Prime Minister urged the youth to work hard for 2020 Olympics and also mentioned that India’s focus should be on sending more than 200-member contingent to Tokyo. About 2016 Rio Olympics The 2016 Rio Olympics is the summer Olympics scheduled to take place in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil from 5 to 21 August 2016. It is officially known as the Games of the XXXI Olympiad. For the first the time Brazil is hosting summer Olympics games. Besides, for first time the summer Olympics will be held in South America.

40. Skydiver Luke Aikins from United States created history by becoming the first person in the world to jump from 25,000 feet (mid-tropospheric altitude) without a parachute and landing safely in a net. He achieved this feat after successfully falling safely into the 100x100ft net in Simi Valley, southern California after the two-minute fall from aeroplane without a parachute or wing suit. With this he also set a personal and world record for the highest jump without a parachute or wing suit. Aikins’ this record was culmination of a 26-year sky diving career and also has completed more 18,000 jumps. About Luke Aikins He is American professional skydiver, pilot, and prominent member of an elite team of skydivers’ BASE jumpers. He had started skydiving at the age of 12 years old He also teaches skydiving. He is also an expert aerial photographer and his photos have been published in major magazines and newspapers.

41. West Bengal has been selected for the All India Coordinated Rice Improvement Project Award 2015. This will be the first time the state will be receiving this award. The state was selected for this award by the 51st committee from the Indira Gandhi Krishi Bikash Kendra for its achievement in the four key areas that include scientific research for seeds. Earlier, West Bengal also had won the Krishi Kamran Puraskar for three consecutive years. Besides, state government has also bagged the award (second position) for participating in International Agriculture and Horticulture Expo held in July 2016 in New Delhi.

42. The Strategic Forces Command (SFC) which forms part of the National Command Authority (NCA) has been added to the Second Schedule of the Right to Information Act (RTI), 2005. In this regard, Union Government has issued a notification mentioning SFC has been brought under sub-section (2) of Section 24 of the RTI. The Section 24 of the RTI exempts security and intelligence establishments from its purview.

43. Justice Dilip Babasaheb Bhosale was sworn in as the new Chief Justice of Allahabad High Court. He succeeds Justice D.Y. Chandrachud who was appointed judge of Supreme Court. He was administered oath of office was administered by Uttar Pradesh Governor Ram Naik in Allahabad as per Article 219 of Constitution.

44. The World Day against Trafficking in Persons is observed across the world on 30 July to raise awareness of the plight of victims of human trafficking and to protect their rights. Human trafficking is the trade of humans, most commonly for the purpose of forced labour, sexual slavery or commercial sexual exploitation for the trafficker or others. The International Labour Organization (ILO) estimates that 21 million people around the world are victims of forced labour. This estimate also includes victims of human trafficking for labour and sexual exploitation. Background In 2013, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had designated July 30 as the World Day against Trafficking in Persons by adopting resolution A/RES/68/192. The resolution had declared that the day was necessary to raise awareness of the situation of victims of human trafficking and for the promotion and protection of their rights.

45. The Mohun Bagan FC has conferred club’s highest decoration Mohun Bagan Ratna (jewel) on legendary Indian Footballer Syed Nayeemuddin. With this, he became 16th recipient of the prestigious award which is bestowed upon person for making seminal contribution to the success of the club. Abiut Syed Nayeemuddin Syed Nayeemuddin is former football player and Indian football team coach. He had captained the Indian national football team which had won the bronze medal at the 1970 Asian Games. He was appointed coach of India football team in 1997. Under his guidance India had won South Asian Football Federation Cup. He is the only sports-person awarded with the prestigious Arjuna and Dronacharya Awards for football. About Mohun Bagan Ratna The Mohun Bagan Ratna is the highest decoration of Mohun Bagan FC. It is awarded annually to respect and laud indispensable contribution of football players to the club. The award is presented annually on 29 July i.e. on Mohun Bagan Day to the winners. Karuna Sankar Bhattacharya was posthumously honoured with this award in 2015.