WBCS Current Affairs 08/10/2016 to 15/10/2016

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1. The researchers from the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru have developed a cost-effective, high-performance, self-powered UV photodetector. The self-powered UV photodetector can use the harvested optical energy for direct self-charging of energy storage devices such as supercapacitor. It can also be used for operating electronic devices in the absence of external power source. What is Photodetector? Photodector is a device capable of sensing (detecting) or responding to electromagnetic energy, typically light by using the electrical effect of individual photons. What researchers have developed? The researchers have developed the photodetector by integrating semiconducting vanadium doped zinc oxide (VZnO) nanoflakes with a conducting polymer. The zinc oxide (ZnO) is the base material for UV detection which can be doped with vanadium to produce photodetectors that are self-powered. The photodetector has superior performance in terms of faster detection of photo signals in the order of milliseconds even when UV light intensity is low. How it works? When doped with vanadium, the microstructure of ZnO changes from nanorods to closely-packed nanoflakes. It causes increase in the surface area to the volume of the material. It also creates surface defects within the band gap of ZnO, which helps in trapping the UV radiation that falls on the nanoflakes. These nanorods are one-dimensional and cause more light reflection from top surface. When UV light enters into pores it undergoes multiple reflections and finally gets absorbed. What are potential benefits? The nanoflake (VZnO) produces five times more photocurrent, compared with ZnO, which generates only 40 nA photocurrent. Once these nanoflakes are hydrogenated, the current generation capacity further increased to 1,000 nA. When these hydrogenated nanoflakes exposed to UV light, they detect photo signal within milliseconds, which is nearly 100 times faster than conventional UV photodetectors. VZnO nanoflakes structure has 98% light harvesting efficiency which is much higher than 84% seen in ZnO.

2. The Union Government has launched National Seismic Programme (NSP) to trace hydrocarbon resources like oil and natural gas in Mahanadi basin. It was launched by Union Minister of State (MoS) for Petroleum and Natural Gas at Taranga village under Soro block in Balasore district of Odisha. Significance Mahanadi basin has been chosen as the first location for the roll out of this national-level programme. The outcome from the NSP help in better understanding of the sub-surface with petroleum systems across wider geological ages especially in sedimentary basins to explore hydrocarbon reserves in Odisha. What is National Seismic Programme (NSP)? NSP aims to undertake a fresh appraisal in all sedimentary basins across India in order to have better understanding of the hydrocarbon potential of the country. Under this programme, high-resolution 2D seismic Acquisition, Processing and Interpretation (API) survey will be conducted across India especially in the sedimentary basins. The survey will be conducted by state owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and Oil India Limited (OIL). The survey project will be completed by March 2019. ONGC will conduct the survey of around 40,835 Line Kilo Meter (LKM) in onland part of 26 sedimentary basins in 18 states/UTs including Mahanadi basin. While OIL will carry out the survey of 7,408 LKM in the North eastern states of Assam, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram and Nagaland.

3. The International Day of Rural Women is observed annually across the world on 15 October to recognize the critical role and contribution of rural women. Significance of the day: Highlights the critical role and contribution of rural women, including indigenous women in enhancing rural and agricultural development, eradicating rural poverty and improving food security. 2016 Theme: “Climate is changing. Food and agriculture must too”. It tries to bring focus on farmers, pastoralists and fishers who are standing on the frontlines of food insecurity due to climate changed due to temperatures rise. The United Nations also calls for empowering rural women as a pre-requisite for fulfilling the vision of the Sustainable Development Goals (SGD) which aims at ending poverty and hunger, achieve food security and empower all women and girls. Why International Day of Rural Women is celebrated? Rural women, make up over a quarter of the total world population. Majority of them depend on natural resources and agriculture for their livelihood. In developing countries, rural women represent approximately 43% of the agricultural labour force. They produce, prepare and process much of the food available, thereby giving them primary responsibility for food security. Thus it is important to recognise the contribution and significant role played by these rural women in food security and poverty elevation. It is also necessary for ensuring rural women’s access to productive agricultural resources contributes to decreasing world hunger and poverty. Background: The first International Day of Rural Women was observed on 15 October 2008. The day was constituted by the UN General Assembly by passing resolution 62/136 in December 2007.

4. Bangladesh and China have agreed to elevate their bilateral relations to “strategic partnership”. It was announced during Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit Bangladesh. This is the first official state visit by Chinese head of state to Bangladesh in three decades since President Li Xiannian’s visit in March 1986. Highlights of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s visit The two countries also have agreed to jointly advance China’s One belt and road (OBOR) initiative. With this Bangladesh, formally joined China’s OBOR initiative. They also agreed to establish institutional cooperation in areas of maritime issues and counter-terrorism. They also agreed to increase high level exchanges and strategic communication between them. Both countries signed of 26 agreements on different sectors. Through these agreements consensus was reached to work together in trade and investment and other key areas such as infrastructure, energy and power, agriculture, ICT and transportation. Comment Geo-politically, Bangladesh is witnessing growing rivalry between China and India, particularly in the era of weakening US role in the region. In this scenario, it signifies growing importance of the Bangladesh in South Asia’s economics and geo-politics. Bangladesh maintains very strong military ties with China. Even Bangladesh’s economic relations with China have traditionally been dominated by trade. The bilateral trade between China and Bangladesh was about $12.5 billion in 2014 and Bangladesh’s export to China has not exceeded even $1 billion. However, in this new type of emerging big power relationship in the South Asia region relatively smaller countries like Bangladesh are adjusting and maintaining balanced economic and geo-political relations, particularly with China and India. What is One Belt, One Road (OBOR) Initiative? OBOR initiative is China’s ambitious development strategy and framework focuses on connectivity and cooperation among countries primarily between China and rest of Eurasia. It consists of two main components, the land-based “Silk Road Economic Belt” (SREB) and oceangoing 21st Century “Maritime Silk Road” (MSR). OBOR initiative part of China’s revived 21st century Silk Road diplomacy that seeks to push it to take a bigger role in global affairs as a major global power.

5. The Women of India Festival 2016 of organic products was inaugurated by the Union Minister of Women & Child Development in New Delhi The 10 day festival has been organised by the Union Ministry of Women & Child Development to benefit women entrepreneurs, and also actively promote organic food and products. Key Facts The Women of India Festival is intended to highlight the health and environmental advantages of organic goods, provide a platform for women engaged in this economy. It also seeks to encourage the development of sustainable and easily accessible sales outlets for organic producers from remote areas. This year’s Festival will have 230 stalls and about 372 participants.

6. The Union Government has decided to utilise the vast network of post offices across the country to sell subsidised pulses. The decision was taken during the meeting of the inter-ministerial committee on prices of essential commodities headed by Consumer Affairs Secretary. The committee reviewed The availability and prices of essential commodities, especially pulses. The prices of pulses, sugar and other essential commodities. The committee decided to release more gram (chana) from buffer stock to ensure its availability through retail distribution at reasonable prices during the festive season. Why post offices will distribute pulses? The purpose of this move is to ensure that there is no shortage of the pulses during the ongoing festival season. The postal networks will fill the gap of absence of government outlets in the States for the distribution of pulses, mainly, tur, urad and chana. It will help government to leverage strong network of around 1.54 lakh post offices in the country, of which 1.39 lakh are in rural areas. It will help government to release more pulses from buffer stock and sell it at subsidised prices to protect consumers from high prices. In order to protect consumers from high prices, Central Government has been releasing tur and urad from its buffer stocks to state governments as well as government agencies like NAFED and Mother Dairy for retail distribution at a subsidised rate.

7. India and Russia have signed an agreement for cooperation in the development of a network of 25 integrated infrastructure Agro irradiation centres. The agreement was signed between Indian Agricultural Association, Hindustan Agro Co-Op Ltd (HACL) and United Innovation Corporation (UIC), a subsidiary of ROSATOM State Atomic Energy Corporation of Russia. As part of the agreement, India-Russia joint venture (JV) will be formed in which HACL will have the majority 51% stakeholding. UIC will be a technology partner and will help set up the irradiation centres. In first phase 7 centers will be set up in Maharashtra in Sindhurg, Satara, Solapur, JNPT, Jalana, Napur and Pune. Importance of Agreement For the first time paves the way for establishment of network of integrated infrastructure irradiation centres in India to reduce agricultural losses. These irradiation centres will help in treatment of perishable food items to improve shelf life and cut post-harvest losses. It will further increase basket perishable items for irradiation process on a commercial scale ranging from flowers to fish. Expand India-Russia cooperation in civil nuclear energy. Why India needs strong network of Agro Irradiation Centres? In India post-harvest losses in food and food grains are around 40-50%. It is primarily due to microbiological contamination, insect infestation, physiological changes due to sprouting and ripening, and poor shelf life. The wastage of fruits and vegetables including cereals, meat, pulses and flowers results in the annual loss estimated to be Rs. 2,50,000 crores. There is presence of few low level irradiation plants in the country which are not adequate. So to reduce the losses in food and food grains and meet the demand it is necessary to increase strong network of agro irradiation centres. What is food irradiation? Food irradiation is a technology in which food products are subjected to a low dosage of radiation to treat them for germs and insects, increasing their longevity and shelf life. It is the application of ionizing radiation to food in which energy is transmitted without direct contact in the targeted food. The radiation can be emitted by a radioactive substance or generated electrically. The irradiated food does not become radioactive. Radioisotopes are used as the source for the gamma rays. Generally cobalt-60 radioisotope is used as a radioactive source for gamma irradiation. Then International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recommends the irradiation doses for Food irradiation. Benefits: Irradiation is equivalent to pasteurization for solid foods, but it is not the same as sterilization. It does not reduce the nutritional value of food products and does not change their organoleptic properties and appearance. The irradiation treatment of food and foodgrains preserves them for longer time, prevent the spread of invasive pests, delay/eliminate ripening or sprouting and reduce the risk of food borne illness.

8. India has decided to eliminate use of HFC-23, a greenhouse gas (GHG) that harms the ozone layer by 2030. With this, India, is taking the lead on tackling climate change. It was announced during the 28th Meeting of the Parties to the Montreal Protocol at Kigali in Rwanda. In this meeting, final negotiations are taking place to substantially reduce the use of HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) by 2030. Key Facts The elimination will potentially check emissions of HFC-23 equivalent to 100 million tonnes of CO2 over the next 15 years. Indian companies will not be compensated for the costs involved in ensuring that these gases are not released. This move is considered as a major break away from the concept of financial assistance for every action on environment in which India earlier had shown the lead. What is HFC-23? HFC-23 is a by-product of HCFC-22 (Hydrochloroflurocarbon-22), which is used in industrial refrigeration. It is a potent greenhouse gas (GHG) with global warming potential of 14,800 times more than that of CO2. What is Montreal Protocol? The Montreal Protocol, is an international treaty designed to protect the ozone layer. It came into force in 1989. It aims at reducing the production and consumption of ozone depleting substances (ODS) in order to protect the earth’s fragile ozone layer. It has been ratified by 197 parties making it universally ratified protocol in United Nations history. It is also highly successful international arrangement, as it has phased-out more than 95% of the ODS so far in its main mandate less than 30 years of its existence.

9. Vice-President and Rajya Sabha Chairman Hamid Ansari has recognised a group of 22 MPs belonging to smaller parties and certain Independents as a consolidated bloc — the United Group. With this recognition the United Group, will be the third largest group of MPs in the Rajya Sabha, after the Congress and the BJP. This is only the third time in the history of Indian Parliament consolidated bloc has been recognised, the first was in 1983 and the second in 1990. In 1983, the first such consolidated group was called United Associations of Members was recognised by the then Rajya Sabha Chairman M.Hidayatullah. In 1990, the then chairman of Rajya Sabha recognised organised group of Parliamentarians and was renamed as the United Group. What are benefits for consolidated bloc? The newly recognised bloc will find a place in the Business Advisory Committee (BAC) that decides time allotment. Thus, MPs of bloc will secure more time to speak in House debates. At present, time allotted to parties to speak on debates depends entirely on their strength in the House. Earlier due to their solitary or numerically lean status, members of this bloc had as little as three minutes of speech time. Thus, a grouping of this kind will make it possible for a party like Sikkim Democratic Front with a single MP to speak for as much time as say, a Samajwadi Party with 19 MPs in Rajya Sabha. About Rajya Sabha The Council of States or Rajya Sabha is the upper house of the Parliament. It is permanent house of the Parliament and unlike the Lok Sabha it is not subject to dissolution. The origin of the Rajya Sabha as the second chamber can be traced to the Montague-Chelmsford Report of 1918 and the Government of India Act, 1919. As per Article 80 of Constitution, the maximum strength of Rajya Sabha is 250, out of which 238 are representatives of States and of two Union Territories having legislatures (Delhi and Puducherry). These members are indirectly elected by state and territorial legislatures using single transferable votes. Remaining 12 members are nominated by the President for their contributions to art, literature, science, and social services. Members of Rajya Sabha have six-year term and one third of the members retire every two years. The Vice President of India is the ex-officio Chairman of the Rajya Sabha, who presides over its sessions.

10. India has been ranked low 97th among the 118 countries surveyed in 2016 Global Hunger Index (GHI). In 2016 GHI, India has scored low 28.5 on a 0-100 point scale of the index. It describes India’s hunger situation as “serious. The index was released by the International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI). What is Global Hunger Index (GHI)? The GHI is a multidimensional statistical tool used to describe the state of countries’ hunger situation. It is released annually by IFPRI since 2006. It ranks countries on a 100-point scale. Zero on the scale is the best score (no hunger), and 100 is the worst. It highlights successes and failures in hunger reduction and provides insights into the drivers of hunger. Thus, GHI aims to trigger actions to reduce hunger. The GHI is calculated by taking into account four indicator parameters. They are (i) Undernourished population (1/3rd weight), (ii) Child wasting (1/6th weight), (iii) Child stunting (1/6th weight) and (iii) Infant mortality rate (1/3rd weight). Stunting: Deficiency in height in relation to age, reflects chronic undernutrition. Wasting: Low weight in relation to a child’s height, reflects acute undernutrition. Key highlights of 2016 GHI There is widespread and chronic lack of balanced food in India. About 15% of under-5 children are `wasted’ and 39% of under-5 children are ‘stunted’. The under-5 mortality rate is 4.8% in India, partially reflecting the fatal synergy of inadequate nutrition and unhealthy environments. Estimated 15% population is undernourished and lacks in adequate food intake, both in quantity and quality. Though India runs two of the world’s biggest children’s nutrition programmes malnutrition continues to haunt India. These two programmes are ICDS (Integrated Child Development Services) for children under 6 years and the mid-day meal programme for school going kids up to the age of 14/ The main reasons for the sorry state in India are endemic poverty, unemployment, lack of sanitation and safe drinking water, and lack of effective healthcare.

11. American singer-songwriter, artist and writer Bob Dylan (75) has won the 2016 Nobel Prize in Literature. He is the first American to win the prize since novelist Toni Morrison in 1993. The Swedish Academy has selected Dylan for this prestigious award for creating new poetic expressions within the great American song tradition. About Bob Dylan Born as Robert Allen Zimmerman on May 24, 1941 in Duluth, Minnesota. His debut album was ‘Bob Dylan’ released in 1962. He had adopted the name Dylan after the poet Dylan Thomas. He is one of the best-selling artists (musician) of all time and has sold more than 100 million records. He has 58 singles, 37 studio albums, 11 live albums and 6 collaborations to his name. Besides, his lyrics have incorporated various political, social, philosophical and literary influences. His early songs such as The Times They Are a-Changin and Blowin’ in the Wind were the anthems for the American civil rights and anti-war movements. He has published six books of drawings and paintings, and his work has been exhibited in major art galleries. Awards and Honours: 11 Grammy Awards, Golden Globe Award and Academy Award (Oscar). The Pulitzer Prize jury had awarded him a special citation in 2008 for his profound impact on popular music and American culture. About Nobel Prize in Literature The Nobel Prize in Literature is one of the five Nobel Prizes established by the will of Alfred Nobel in 1895. It is awarded since 1901. It is awarded annually to an author from any country who has produced the most outstanding work in an ideal direction in the field of literature. The award carries a gold medal, a diploma bearing a citation, and a sum of money. Recent winners of Nobel Prize for Literature: Svetiana Alexievich (2015), Patrick Modiano (2014), Alice Munro (Canada), Yo Yan (China).

12. India has received the first parcel of crude oil from Iran to partly fill the strategic storage in southern India as part of the Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPRs) storage. The first parcel of 2 million barrels of Iranian oil was imported by Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Ltd (MRPL) with the help of very large crude carrier (VLCC) Dino. India is planning to fill half of the storage with 6 million barrels of Iranian oil while continuing talks with United Arab Emirates and Saudi Arabia for the remainder. The second parcel of such reserve will be procured by Bharat Petroleum Corp. Why it is important for India to have strategic storage? India imports around 80% of its crude oil requirement from the international market. Most of these imports come from Middle East which is unstable region. Any price aberrations in crude oil prices have a direct impact on the Indian economy especially upon the current account and inflation amounting to strategic risks. Thus, it is necessary for India to have SPRs which will act as a valuable buffer against short term oil supply disruptions and global price shocks. Government Proposals Since 2003, the Central Government has commissioned the strategic oil reserves to maintain nation’s energy as well as economic security. The erstwhile Planning Commission in its Integrated Energy Policy, 2006 also had recommended to maintain a reserve equivalent to 90 days of oil imports for strategic-cum-buffer stock purposes. The recommendation was based on identification that any supply, market and technical risks in global supply chain of oil may become major threat to India’s energy security. Present Status India is building emergency SPR storages in vast underground caverns at three locations in southern India to store about 5.33 million tonnes of crude oil enough crude to cover almost two weeks of demand. They are located are in Visakhapatnam, Mangalore and Padur.

13. The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) has formally elected Antonio Guterres (67) as the new Secretary-General of the United Nations. In this regard, 193 member states of UN adopted by acclamation a resolution for appointing Antonio Guterres. He will have five-year term beginning January 1, 2017. He will succeed retiring Ban Ki-moon who has completed two five-year terms as the world’s top diplomat. Earlier in October 2016, Antonio Guterres had won unanimous support from UN Security Council (UNSC). Who is Antonio Guterres? Antonio Guterres is Portuguese politician and diplomat. He had entered politics in 1976 during Portugal’s first democratic election after the “Carnation Revolution” which had ended five decades of dictatorship. He was Prime Minister of Portugal from 1995 to 2002. He was the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) from June 2005 to December 2015. He led the UNHCR through during one of the world’s worst present refugee crises, including those in Syria, Afghanistan, and Iraq. About Secretary-General of United Nations The UN Secretary-General is the head of the United Nations Secretariat. He is de facto spokesperson and leader of the UN. The role Secretary-General has been mentioned in Chapter XV (Articles 97 to 101) of UN Charter. The post lasts for five years and is limited to a maximum of two terms. Summary The post of Secretary-General of United Nations is not as powerful, but he serves as the UN’s top diplomat and chief administrative officer. He has to run an unwieldy bureaucracy and manage the competing demands of the world’s big powers. His role is to step in both publicly and privately to prevent escalation of international disputes.

14. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for signing of a MoU on General Cooperation with New Development Bank (NDB) or BRICS Bank and Export Import Bank of India (EXIM Bank). The MoU will be through the BRICS Interbank Cooperation Mechanism. The MoU will help enhance trade and economic relations among the BRICS countries. However there is no financial implication involved with signing of the MoU. What is Purpose of MoU? This MoU is a non-binding umbrella agreement. It aims at establishing a cooperation framework in accordance with the national laws and regulations. Besides it also seeks for skills transfer and knowledge sharing amongst the signatories. Why this MoU was signed? The establishment of the NDB reflects the close relations among the BRICS countries and provides a powerful instrument for increasing their economic cooperation among them. The signing of MoU is necessary keeping in view the strategic relevance of cooperation for sustainable development and inclusive economic growth among BRICS countries. It also reflects cooperation extended by the BRICS members in various forms for promoting and facilitating trade of goods and services as well as investments in mutual projects. Background The BRICS Interbank Co-operation Mechanism was established by the five banks from the BRIC nations to enhance trade and economic relations amongst the BRIC countries, and enterprises. It proposes to sign a MOU on General Co-operation with the NDB. BRICS countries (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) are developing countries, collectively accounting for 43% of the world’s population, 15% of global trade and 20% of the world’s investment flows.

15. The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the mechanism for revision of ethanol price for supply to Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs). The revised administered price will facilitate OMCs to carry out the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme for the next sugar season 2016-17. Key facts The revision of ethanol prices will facilitate continuation of Government policy in providing price stability and remunerative prices for ethanol suppliers. Charges will be paid to the ethanol suppliers as per actuals in case of Excise Duty and GST/ VAT and transportation charges as decided by the OMCs. However, these prices of ethanol can be reviewed and suitably revised by Central Government at any time during ethanol supply period (from 1 December, 2016 to 30 November, 2017) depending upon prevailing economic situation and other relevant factors. Background The Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme was launched by the Central Government in 2003 to promote the use of alternative and environment friendly fuels. It was intervention sought to reduce import dependency for energy requirements and environment friendly measure to reduce vehicular pollution. However, since 2006, OMCs were not able to meet required quantity of ethanol demand against the tenders floated by them. The various constraints for it were like State Specific issues, Supplier related issues including Pricing issues of ethanol. In order to augment the supply of ethanol, a new mechanism for pricing of ethanol was placed in where Government decided delivered price of ethanol at OMC depots. The decision has helped in significantly improving the supply of ethanol. What is Ethanol Blending? The ethanol blending is process of mixing petrol with ethanol. The mixture is called as Ethanol Fuel / Gasohol which is considered as a quasi-renewable energy. Ethanol is biofuel derived from Sugarcane molasses (by-product in the conversion of sugarcane to sugar), corn, sorghum etc. In India, practice of blending ethanol was started in 2001. Ethanol blending for first time was mention in the Auto fuel policy of 2003. Later, the National Policy on Bio-fuels, 2009 made mandatory for oil companies to sell petrol blended with at least 5% of ethanol. Benefits of ethanol blending It reduces the vehicular emissions especially carbon monoxide emissions. It is cheaper than petrol as it is cheaper to manufacture. It decreases a nation dependence on foreign oil. Ethanol has a higher octane rating than ethanol-free petrol. In case of India, ethanol production can give higher sugarcane price for farmers which can help in rural prosperity.

16. Researchers from Kolkata based Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER) have produced cost-effective, metal-free cathodes using human hair for use in solar cells. Significance: This is the first instance where a bio-waste-derived electrode (in this case human hair) has been used as cathode in a quantum dot sensitised solar cell device. Key Facts IISER researchers have developed graphitic porous carbon cathode by cleaning and drying human hair and treating with sulphuric acid to achieve precarbonisation. It was then heated at different temperatures in the presence of inert gas for six hours to carbonise and bring better electrical conductivity for efficient charge transfer. This efficient green cathode achieves highly catalytic graphitic porous carbon stage at optimum temperature of 850 degrees C. Advantages Producing graphitic porous carbon cathode using human hair is simple, quick and inexpensive. It has potential to bring down the cost of solar cells. The bio-waste-derived cathode has higher efficiency to convert visible sunlight to electricity. It also enhances the power conversion efficiencies. It generates high open-circuit voltage compared to conventional platinum and activated carbon cathodes. It is metal-free cathode, while commonly used cathode is made of platinum metal and metal sulfides.

17. The Central Government has brought final draft of the National Water Framework Bill, 2016 to provide uniform national legal framework to manage water in a better and efficient way The comprehensive draft Bill proposes model law for all states. However, water being a State subject under VII Schedule of constitution the law will be not binding on States for adoption. Need The water shortage problem is escalating and country has witnessed acute drought situation in certain parts. In future, such situations may increase backdrop of climate change. Besides, presently in absence of institutional arrangement there are inter-state water disputes because states do not their contributions to a river’s catchment area to resolve conflicts. Key Features of Bill Every person has a right to sufficient quantity of safe water for life within easy reach of the household regardless of his/her socio-economic factors. All basin states have equitable rights over the use of river water provided such use does not violate the right to water for life of any person in the river basin. States must recognise the principle that the rivers are public trustees and not owned by the basin-States. All the basin States are equal in rights and status, and there is no hierarchy of rights among them. Here equality of rights means not equal but equitable shares in river waters. Managing water at river basin-level and right measurement of State’s contribution to river system to in order to resolve conflicts. Establishing River Basin Authority (RBA) for each inter-State basin to ensure optimum and sustainable development of rivers and valleys. Establishing institutional arrangements to deal with inter-state water disputes in order to “obviate” disputes through negotiations, mediation or conciliation. Proposes other mechanisms such as National water quality and footprint standards, Integrated river basin development and management plan and Graded pricing system.

18. The International Day for Disaster Reduction (IDDR) is observed annually on 13 October across the world encourage citizens and governments to take part in building more disaster resilient communities and nations. Significance of the day: It seeks to spread awareness about reining the risks of disasters around the world and also reduce exposure of people and communities to disasters. 2016 Theme: “Live to Tell: Raising Awareness, Reducing Mortality”. The 2016 edition of IDDR marks the launch of the new Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction by United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR). UNISDR’s campaign for the day is Sendai Seven that seeks to create a wave of awareness about actions taken to reduce mortality around the world. Background The International Day for Disaster Reduction was instituted by UN General Assembly (UNGA) in 1989 to promote a global culture of risk-awareness and disaster reduction. Earlier, this day was celebrated annually on the second Wednesday of October. But in 2009, the UNGA formally designated 13 October as the annual date by adopting Resolution 64/200. What is Sendai Framework? The Sendai Framework is a 15-year voluntary, non-binding agreement which recognizes that the countries have the primary role to reduce disaster risk. It also recognises that this responsibility of countries should be shared with other stakeholders including local government, private sector and other stakeholders. It is the successor agreement to the Hyogo Framework for Action (2005–2015), which was the most encompassing international accord on disaster risk reduction to date. The Sendai Framework also seeks to promote best practices at the international, regional and national level across all sectors, to reduce disaster risk and disaster losses. The framework has seven targets and first of it is reducing disaster mortality. The four priority themes of the Sendai Framework are: (i) Understanding disaster risk, (ii) improving disaster risk governance, (iii) investing in disaster risk reduction (through structural and non-structural measures) and (iv) disaster preparedness, early warning and building back better in the aftermath of a disaster.

19. Four public sector banks (PSBs) may struggle to make coupon payments on their additional tier 1 (AT1) bond as they have reported heavy losses due to a surge in bad loans. In this case coupon payment is an annual interest paid on the face value of a bond. It is expressed as a percentage. AT1 bond is issued under Basel III capital regulations. Why PSBs finding difficult to pay them? The main reasons that may affect ability of PSBs to pay coupon on AT1 bonds are decline in profitability and increasing losses that may wipe out their revenue reserves. Government’s position Union Government has committed capital support to these PSBs on the coupon on AT1 bonds. However, this support can only be serviced through PSBs current year’s profit or from revenue reserves. Thus, any capital infusion by the government alone cannot help the banks to service coupon on these bonds. What are Additional Tier 1 (AT1) Bonds? AT1 bonds are the hybrid bonds that combine debt and equity elements. They are also called as contingent convertible capital instruments (CoCos). AT1 or Cocos bonds have their roots in financial crisis when governments were forced to bail out banks. They are the riskiest debt issued by banks and do not have any set maturity date. The defining characteristic of AT1 or Cocos bond is that it may be converted into shares when certain conditions are met. For example, when a company runs into trouble, the owners lose their stake and the debt becomes equity, lenders turns into owners. But in case of banks such negotiations are not possible. The coco bonds are designed to anticipate that process and transform automatically from debt to equity.

20. The Union Cabinet has approved the establishment and operationalisation of Indian Institute of Management (IIM) at Jammu. It will become operational from the Academic Year 2016-17 at the transit or temporary campus at Old Government College of Engineering & Technology.

21. The first World Tsunami Awareness Day will be celebrated on November 5, 2016 at the Asian Ministerial Conference for Disaster Risk Reduction (AMCDRR) 2016. The conference will organised from November 3 to 5, 2016 in New Delhi by the Union Government in collaboration with United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR). To commemorate the occasion, an event will be organised with Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) Champions at the AMCDRR 2016. About World Tsunami Awareness Day The World Tsunami Awareness Day was instituted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by adopting a resolution proposed by Japan. The objective of the day is to spread awareness among people across the world in matters related to the dangers of tsunami and stress on the importance of early warning systems in order to mitigate damage from the devastating natural calamity. It also seeks to revive traditional knowledge about tsunamis. Background: November 5 was selected by UNGA to coincide with the annual anniversary of the 1854 Inamura-no-hi (Fire of Inamura) event. On this day in 1854, a villager in Wakayama Prefecture, Japan through his quick action had saved countless lives when he set fire to sheaves of rice on the top of a hill, thus warning people of the imminent danger of a tsunami. This was the first documented instance of a tsunami early warning. India’s initiatives Following the devastating Indian Ocean Tsunami of 2004, Central Government established an Indian Tsunami Early Warning Centre (ITEWC). It is operational since October 2007. ITEWC was established under the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) at Hyderabad. The Centre has state-of-the-art infrastructure for generating and disseminating tsunami bulletins for the entire Indian Ocean region. Besides, India along with 23 other Indian Ocean countries had participated in a tsunami mock drill in September 2016.

22. The Union Cabinet has given its approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Hungary on cooperation in the field of water management. The MoU will be signed between Union Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation and the Ministry of Interior, Government of Hungary. This is for the first time India is entering into a MoU with Hungary with wide-ranging areas on water sector. Key Features of MoU Both the countries will cooperate in the field of river basin management, integrated water resources management, irrigation technology innovation, efficiency in water supply and flood & drought management to improve the socio-economic conditions of the people. They will also exchange of scientific delegations and experts in the field of water resources development and management for joint activities. Benefits Enhance bilateral cooperation in the field of water management, on the basis of equality and mutual benefits. Encourage the development of bilateral relations between private and public organizations concerning water resources of both the countries.

23. The Union Finance Ministry has constituted a high-level committee to consolidate the regulation of pension products that is currently being done by three different watchdogs including insurance and stock market regulators. The committee would have representatives from all financial sector regulators SEBI, IRDA, RBI and PFRDA. Its mandate will be to look into the issue of bringing these companies which are offering pension plans under different regulators under the purview of PFRDA. Note PFRDA: Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority. SEBI: Securities and Exchange Board of India. IRDA: Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India. RBI: Reserve Bank of India. Why there is need to consolidate regulation of pension products? The PFRDA Act says that PFRDA will be the pension regulator in the country. Currently, pension products floated by insurance companies and those sold by mutual funds are under purview of IRDA and SEBI respectively. Thus, there are cases of overlapping functions performed by financial sector regulators SEBI, IRDA, RBI and PFRDA in case of floating different pension products. For instance PFRDA is regulating all pension products in the country. However, insurers and mutual funds continue to sell pension products outside PFRDA’s watch. The PFRDA Act says that PFRDA will be the pension regulator in the country. About Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) PFRDA is a statuary pension regulatory authority established in 2003 under the PFRDA Act. It functions under the aegis of Union Ministry of Finance, Department of Financial Services. PFRDA promotes old age income security by establishing, developing and regulating pension funds. It also protects interests of subscribers to schemes of pension funds and related matters. It is responsible for appointment of various intermediate agencies such as Central Record Keeping Agency (CRA), Custodian, Pension Fund Managers, NPS Trustee Bank, etc.

24. The Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) appointed committee has submitted its recommendations. It was headed by power system expert Mata Prasad. The committee has suggested an overhaul in transmission planning to facilitate transfer of power on economic principles. Key Recommendations Transmission planning: It must be aligned to meet customer aspirations as opposed to existing system where transmission is associated with long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs). It can should be done basis of projected load of states and anticipated generation scenario based on economic principles of merit order operation. Renewable energy sources transmission system: To be planned by central transmission utility (CTU) based on estimated capacity additions in perspective plan and renewable purchase obligations of each state. Promote of power market: Transmission corridor allocation must be done suitably made. 5% of each flow gate may be reserved for day-ahead collective transactions. This flow gate may be released for contingency market in case of non-utilisation of corridor by power exchanges. The percentage of reservation may be reviewed after 1 year of operation. System studies: They must be carried out for various generation and load scenarios during peak and off-peak hours. It should also consider renewable capacity addition and scheduling of various generating stations that don’t have any PPAs. Creation of a central repository of generators:

25. The NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has developed a new high-tech electroactive bandage that uses electricity to significantly promote healing of injured wounds. The high-tech bandage creates an electric charge to promote the healing process of wounds in space especially in conditions of non-Earth gravity. Need In conditions of non-Earth gravity, human blood displays quite different behaviour from that on Earth. In case of injury in space, wounds heal more slowly Considering the survival risks due to injury and the cost of space missions, healing wounds as fast as possible is crucial. Key Facts The electroactive bandage uses a new material called polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) which can be stimulated by pressure of cell growth and body heat. The new material generates a small amount of electricity when interacts with another surface, including human skin. When this electroactive bandage is applied to an external wound site, it utilises low level electrical stimulation to promote wound healing. The bandage speeds the wound’s healing process and minimises infection and related complications such as amputation or illness. Potential Applications: This bandage could be used by astronauts in space, military personnel wounded in field, patients who have undergone surgery or who have suffered a serious wound.

26. The 28th India and Indonesia Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) and Second Bilateral Maritime Exercise have commenced at Belawan, Indonesia in the Andaman Sea. The 17-day-long bilateral exercise (from 10 to 27, October, 2016) will demonstrate India’s commitment to its ties with Indonesia and to maritime security in Indian Ocean Region (IOR). Key Facts The bilateral maritime exercise and CORPAT will see participation by one warship and one maritime patrol aircraft from navies of both countries. India will be represented by INS Karmuk, an indigenously built missile corvette, based under Andaman and Nicobar Command alongwith a Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft. These naval interactions will provide opportunities for both countries for extensive operational and training engagements. Besides, it will also contribute substantively to the maintenance of good order at sea. The bilateral naval exercise also seeks to strengthen existing bonds of friendship between both countries. It will also underscore India’s partnership and solidarity with friendly countries of the region. Backgfround Defence relations between India and Indonesia are growing steadily with regular joint activities and interactions between the Armed Forces of the two countries. The navies of both countries have been carrying out CORPAT on respective sides of the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) twice a year since 2002. The main aim of CORPAT is to keep the vital part of the Indian Ocean Region (IOR) safe and secure for commercial shipping, International trade and legitimate marine activities. The CORPAT has helped to strengthened understanding and interoperability between the two navies and also has promoted net maritime security in the region.

27. China has rapped United States for its interventions in Asia as tensions are growing between the two powers over territorial disputes in the South China Sea (SCS). In this regard, China’s Defence Minister has levied thinly veiled criticism at recent US involvement in Asia’s trouble spots. China-US Issue China has claimed its territorial rights over almost the entire South China Sea region while other countries Malaysia, Brunei, Philippines, Vietnam and Taiwan also have rival claims. To support its rights, China also has built artificial islands capable of supporting military facilities the strategically vital South China Sea. Earlier to oppose China’s moves, US had conducted freedom of navigation operations close to artificial islands built by China in the SCS as it pose a challenge to freedom of navigation. Besides, it also had agreed to deploy a missile defence system in South Korea following repeated nuclear and missile tests by China’s ally North Korea. US also has sought to “pivot” to Asia by increasing its military and economic engagement with countries in region which is seen as its move to contain China’s growing power. In July 2016, an international Permanent Court of Arbitration (PCA) in its pronouncement had ruled that China has no legal basis over the entire SCS. However, China has rejected PCA verdict.

28. The Union Government may soon consider adopting a three-pronged approach to revitalise domestic retail and wholesale trade. The three-pronged approach includes (i) Establishing a regulatory body for national internal trade (retail and wholesale) (ii) Comprehensive domestic trade policy and (ii) Board for Internal Trade. Need for new approach Domestic trade mainly comprises non-corporate small businesses providing employment to an estimated 460 million people. Currently, there is no single regulatory body or Ministry for such six crore small businesses in the country that have collective annual turnover of around Rs. 30 lakh crore. The current approach policy regime and the environment is considered only conducive for foreign retail giants and their Indian partners or counterparts Implications The proposed three-pronged policy approach will address need of these small businesses with an aim to generate employment, improve financial inclusion of small traders. It will also ensure ease of doing business by eliminating multiplicity of approvals, improve competiveness of economy and boost overall demand to boost growth. Besides, the new strategy will also help to link Central Government’s flagship initiatives such as Digital India, Skill India and Make In India with these small businesses.

29. Telangana Government in its the biggest administrative reform has created 21 new districts. With this reorganisation, the total number of districts in the State went up to 31 from 10. The 21 new districts are: Siddipet, Jayashankar, Jangaon, Jagtial, Yadadri, Warangal (Rural), Peddapally, Sangareddy, Kamareddy, Mancheriyal, Kothagudem, Vikarabad, Rajanna, Asifabad, Suryapet, Wanaparthy, Nirmal, Mahabubabad, Nagarkurnool, Jogulamba and Malkajgiri. Earlier 10 districts are: Hyderabad, Mahabubnagar, Ranga Reddy, Karimnagar, Medak, Adilabad, Warangal, Nizamabad, Khammam and Nalgonda.

30. Ace Indian Shooter Jitu Rai has won the 2016 Champion of Champions pistol Award of the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) for pistol shooting. He won the award consisting cash prize of €5000 in the World Cup Final held in Bologna, Italy. In the 10 m Air Pistol Champions Trophy final Jitu Rail defeated Damir Mikec of Serbia by 29.6 to 28.3 points. Olympic champion Anna Korakaki finished third in this event.

31. bdelilah Bekirane was re-appointed as the Prime Minister of Morocco for second term. Benkirane has been serving as Prime Minister since November 2011. It was officially announced by Mohammed VI, the king of Morocco after Benkirane’s Islamic Justice and Development Party (PJD) emerged victorious in recent general election. Now PM Bekirane will now reach out to other parties to form a coalition government as he does not have absolute majority in lower house.

32. The Union Government is going to commemorate the birth centenary of social activist and former RSS leader Nanaji Deshmukh from October 11, 2016 to October 11, 2017. It was announced by the Union Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma during inaugural programme organised on the eve of the birth centenary celebrations.

33. The Union Government has decided to invest 15,000 crore rupees to increase the capacity of Panipat refinery in Haryana to 25 Million Tonnes from existing 15 Million Tonnes. It was announced by Union Minister of State (MoS) for Petroleum and Natural Gas, Dharmendra Pradhan at a function in Panipat. Key Facts The expansion of Panipat refinery will help raise specifications of fuel quality from BS-IV to BS-VI to meet future demand. It will also create employment opportunities for the people and also help in raising quality of fuel in the country by the year 2020. Besides, Indian Oil Corporation (IOC) will also set up bio-ethanol plant in Panipat to generate alternative fuel from agricultural residue which would boost agriculture sector. What is Bioethanol? It is an alcohol derived by process of fermentation mostly from carbohydrates of agricultural residue and feedstocks. As a quasi-renewable energy, ethonal can be blended with petrol or diesel making it a sustainable transport fuel. It will help to reducing emissions and dependency on imported fuel. Benefits of bio-ethanol plant Help in solving the chronic problem of straw burning of leftover agro-based produce especially from wheat and rice feedstocks. Benefit farmers economically, as they would be paid for their agro-based produce to extract bio-ethanol. It would also help in preventing the loss of fertility of soil and damage to environment by reducing air pollution.

34. A high altitude glaciological research station in Himalaya called Himansh (meaning a slice of ice) began functioning above 13,500 ft (4000 m) in a remote region in Spiti, Himachal Pradesh. Researchers will use this station as a base for undertaking surveys that would digitize the glacier motion and snow cover variations with exceptional precision. Key Facts Himansh station will provide much needed fillip to the scientific research on Himalayan glaciers and its hydrological contribution. The research lab has been established by the National Centre for Antarctic and Ocean Research (NCAOR) in Spiti Valley, one of the most uninhabited parts of the country The station houses instruments to quantify glacier melting and its relation to changing climate. Some of the instruments available at this research facility include automatic weather stations, ground penetrating radars, geodetic GPS systems and other sophisticated facilities. It will also serve as the base for Terrestrial Laser Scanners (TLS) and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for undertaking surveys. Significance The Himalayan region has the largest concentration of glaciers outside the polar caps. It is called the “Water Tower of Asia”. It is source of 10 major river systems that provide irrigation, drinking water and power for over 700 million people (10% of world’s population) living in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. Thus, understanding behaviour of these Himalayan glaciers and their contribution to sustainable supply of water for mankind and agriculture is one of grand challenges of Indian scientific community.

35. The 4th BRICS Science, Technology and Innovation Ministerial Meeting was held at Jaipur, Rajastan. The purpose of the meeting was to further strengthen the collaboration amongst the BRICS countries in the areas of Science, Technology and Innovation (STI). Key Facts The meeting adopted a five-pronged approach, viz. Institution Building, Implementation, Integration, Innovation and Continuity. In alignment with the theme of India’s Chairmanship of 8th BRICS Summit, Building, Responsive Inclusive and Collective Solutions, Jaipur Declaration was unanimously adopted. The BRICS member countries have resolved to intensify, diversify and institutionalize STI cooperation through the BRICS innovation and research initiative. India’s proposal to establish a BRICS Science and Technology driven Entrepreneurship and Innovation Partnership Programme to harness innovativeness of youth was also agreed.

36. The International Day of the Girl Child (IDGC) is observed every year across the world on 11 October to recognize girls’ rights and the unique challenges girls face around the world. Significance of Day: The observance of the day seeks to increase awareness of gender inequality faced by girls worldwide based upon their gender and supports more opportunity for girls. This year it was fifth edition of this day after it was observed for first time in 2012. 2016 Theme: “Girls’ Progress = Goals’ Progress: What Counts for Girls”. It calls for action for increased investment in collecting and analyzing girl-relevant, girl-focused and sex-disaggregated data. Background The International Day of the Girl Child (IDGC) was instituted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by adopting Canada backed Resolution in December 2011. The observation of the day supports more opportunity for girls. It also increases awareness of gender inequality faced by girls worldwide based upon their gender. This inequality includes areas such as right to education, nutrition, medical care, legal rights and protection from discrimination, violence and unfree child marriage.

37. Two economists Oliver Hart and Bengt Holmstrom have won the 2016 Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences. Both of them will share 8 million kronor, or about $930,000. Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences has selected them for their contributions to contract theory which tells how contracts help people deal with conflicting interests. Their individual theories on contract theory are valuable to the understanding of real-life contracts and institutions, as well as potential pitfalls in contract design. For example, contract theory can be used to analyze performance-based pay for CEOs or deductibles and co-pays for insurance. Their work provided economists microecomic tools to understand interactions between entities, such as design of performance incentives in firms, corporate governance, privatisation, constitutional law and entrepreneur-investor relationships. Oliver Hart: He was born in 1948 in London, UK. He holds Ph.D. from Princeton University, US. Presently, he is Andrew E. Furer Professor of Economics at Harvard University, US. Bengt Holmström: He was born in 1949 in Helsinki, Finland. He holds Ph.D. from Stanford University, US. Presently he is Paul A. Samuelson Professor of Economics and Professor of Economics and Management at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), US. About Nobel Memorial Prize in Economic Sciences In 1968, Sweden’s central bank had added the economic sciences prize as a memorial to Nobel. Thus, economics award is not a Nobel Prize as the others prizes which were established by Swedish industrialist Alfred Nobel in 1895.

38. For the first time, Indian researcher has successfully produced a stable, high-efficiency, all-inorganic perovskite nanocrystal solar cells. It was produced by Abhishek Swarnkar, a research scholar from the Department of Chemistry at Pune’s Indian Institute of Science Education and Research (IISER). Key Facts The new inorganic perovskite nanocrystal material has 10.77% efficiency to convert sunlight to electricity. It used cesium to produce the material of cesium lead iodide. The nanocrystals of cesium lead iodide were reduced to nanometre range. It allowed the material to absorb visible sunlight till 700 nm at ambient temperature. These nanocrystals were found to be stable from —196 degree C to about +200 degree C. It also converted sunlight to electricity by producing a high voltage of 1.23 volts. These nanocrystals were assembled as a thin film. The thin film was used for making both solar cells and red LEDs. Significance of Research This research on inorganic perovskite nanocrystal moves away from traditional research based around a hybrid organic-inorganic halide perovskite material. Though, this traditional hybrid material has high efficiency of over 22% but organic component in it volatile. This material becomes completely unstable under ambient conditions within a short span of time which renders it unsuitable for commercial photovoltaic applications.

39. The Supreme Court in its landmark judgement has widened the scope of the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 by making it gender-neutral. The SC ordered deletion of the words “adult male” before the word ‘person’ in Section 2(q) of the Act making it gender-neutral. The remaining part of the legislation would remain operative and was kept untouched. The Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005 protects women from physical, sexual, verbal, emotional and economic abuse at home. Key Facts The SC order paves way for prosecution of women and even non-adults for subjecting a woman relative to violence and harassment. It strikes down two words from Section 2(q) of Act which deals with respondents who can be sued and prosecuted under it for harassing a married woman in her matrimonial home. It also allows a woman to seek legal action against her daughter-in-law and even her minor grandchildren for domestic violence. Why SC ordered to delete words? According to SC, microscopic difference between male and female, adult and non-adult is neither real nor substantial. It also does not have any rational relation to the object of the legislation. The words “adult male” also violated right to equality under Constitution. It is contrary to object of affording protection to women who have suffered from domestic violence of any kind. Background The landmark verdict of Supreme Court came on an appeal against the Bombay High Court judgement, which had resorted to the literal construction of the term ‘adult male’. Based on literal construction of these words, Bombay High Court had discharged four persons, including a woman, two girls and a minor boy of a family from a domestic violence case on the ground that they were not “adult male” and hence cannot be prosecuted under the Act.