Competitive Papers

January 2016 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:14:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

Dress Code For Devotees Visiting Tamil Nadu Shrines From January

Devotees entering temples in Tamil Nadu will have to follow a new dress code from January 1st as several important shrines have put up notice boards highlighting this.The dress code for entering the temples was being followed on the orders of the Madras High court on December 1st. According to a notice board outside the Palani temple, male devotees have been advised to wear dhoti, shirt, pyjama or pant and shirt while women and girls should wear saris or churidhar or ‘pavadai’ with half-sari. Devotees wearing lungi, bermudas, jeans and tight-leggings would not be allowed.

Jharkhand first state to sign MoU with Centre for power scheme UDAY

Jharkhand state become first state in country to sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana (UDAY) scheme with Union Government on 5 January 2016. In this regard a tripartite MoU was signed between the state government, Union Ministry of Power and state power distributor Jharkhand Bijli Vitaran Nigam Ltd (JBVNL). With this, the total number of states that would be joining UDAY become 15. The other states that are on board UDAY are Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Jammu&Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. Besides, four major states — Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra and Odisha have already given their in-principle approval to join UDAY.

Kerala became first State to achieve 100% primary education

Kerala became the first state in the country to achieve 100 percent primary education.This was declared by the Vice President of India Hamid Ansari on 12th January 2016 at a special ceremony organised at Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. The success of Kerala in achieving total primary education can be attributed to various initiatives undertaken by the Kerala Literacy Mission in the last two decades. Especially, the Athulyam Scheme, which was implemented in two stages, played a key role in addressing the educational needs of illiterate adults. The second stage of the scheme, namely Mission 676, targeted those between ages 15 and 50 who, for one reason or the other, dropped out of the formal education process. Prior to the Athulyam Scheme, the fourth standard equivalency programme was started in 2000 in association with local bodies. As a result, Kannur became the first district in the country to achieve total primary education in 2001.

Maharashtra Government inks MoU with Tata Trust for skill training of youth

The Maharashtra Government and Tata Trust on 19 January 2016 signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for a skill training programme for the youth in the state. The programme has been undertaken under the Maharashtra Government’s Kushal Maharashtra, Rojgaryukt Maharashtra initiative.

Bihar Government announced 35% reservation for women in all govt jobs

Bihar government on 19 January 2016 announced 35% reservation to women in government jobs in the state at all levels.The decision was taken at a meeting of the state cabinet presided over by chief minister Nitish Kumar. The state government which had provided 35% reservation to women in police job extended it in all other jobs.Other important decisions approved by the cabinet included a proposal to increase entry tax on electronic items, bidi and tobacco items, ready made garments and footwear among others in the range of 5% to 12%.

Decmber 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:13:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

Broad gauge rail line in Assam

Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu has inaugurated the land mark Silchar-Lumding broad gauge rail line in the state of Assam. The rail lines brings Assam’s under developed Barak Valley on the broad gauge map. The Lumding-Silchar broad gauge line project under Northeast Frontier Railway was sanctioned in 1996-97 and was declared a National Project in 2004.

Maharashtra is the biggest economy in India

The latest report by credit rating agency Brickwork Ratings said that Maharashtra is the biggest economy in India at Rs. 16.87 lakh crore in terms of gross state domestic product (GSDP). Maharashtra is followed by Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh. Maharashtra’s GSDP has grown by 11.69 per cent for the financial year ended March 31, 2015. Maharashtra earns approximately 70 per cent of its total receipts through tax revenue.

First International festival on Birds in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh Government has launched International festival on Birds to promote state as an international bird-watching destination. The three-day international festival (from 4 to 6 December 2015) on birds was inaugurated by Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav at the National Chambal Sanctuary (NCS) in Agra. It has been jointly organised by the State Forest department in collaboration with Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). Over 80 Indian ornithlogists and around 25 top international bird experts and are participating in the first-of-its-kind festival.

NGT bans registration of new diesel-run vehicles in Delhi

National Green Tribunal (NGT) has ordered ban on registration of new diesel-run vehicles in Delhi to curb the growing menace of air pollution in the capital city. The ban on registration of new diesel vehicles will be valid till 6th January 2016. NGT also ordered the central and state government to stop buying diesel cars in Delhi.

Delhi became first state to implement Road Safety recommendations

To deal with traffic violations in the city, the Delhi Traffic Police decided to start implementing recommendations of the Supreme Court appointed committee chaired by Justice KS Radhakrishnan from 15 December 2015 onwards. With this decision, Delhi Traffic Police is the first in the country to implement the directions of the Supreme court appointed three-member committee on Road Safety. Expected Effects of implementation include Suspension of driving licences for three months and other fines for drunken driving, over-speeding, using mobile phone while driving, and carrying passengers in goods vehicles. Fines for first offence and subsequent offences in case of over speeding will be 400 rupees and 1000 rupees respectively and others.

November 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:12:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

2016 South Asian Rugby Championship in Jammu and Kashmir

Kashmir Valley will host South Asian Rugby 7’S Championship in 2016. The decision was made during the 131st Standing Committee meeting of J-K State Sports Council. The championship will be held at Bakhshi Stadium from 18 June to 20 June 2016. The Championship will be participated by eight teams consisting of 180 participants from various countries like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and India.

India’s first Paragliding World Cup

The 2015 Paragliding World Cup (PWC) was held in Bir village of Himachal Pradesh. It was for the first time India hosted a PWC and it is the biggest aero sport event held in India so far. Ajay Kumar from India emerged as the best pilot by positioning himself at the 31st rank overall. Gurpreet Dhindsa (63) and Arvind Paul (70) were the only two other Indians figured in the top 100 list. At the end of the event, while Swiss pilot Michael Kuffer topped the table in the men’s category, Yuki Sato of Japan topped the table in the women’s league.

Maharashtra approved APJ Abdul Kalam Amrut Yojna

The Maharashtra Government on 3 November 2015 approved a revised scheme, named APJ Abdul Kalam Amrut Yojna, for pregnant and lactating women in the tribal areas of the state. The scheme aims at providing at least one full hot cooked nutritious food to every pregnant lady and lactating mother. The food will be provided for six months, beginning from third trimester of pregnancy to the three months period after delivery. The meal will include pulses, rice, fruits, vegetables and boiled eggs with occasional supply of milk.

Indian Railways signed MoU with Odisha

The Odisha Government and Indian Railways on 4 November 2015 inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to form a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) for implementation of railway projects in the state. The MoU aims at forming a Joint Venture Company to develop railway infrastructure in Odisha.

Northeast India’s first elephant hospital at Kaziranga National Park

Northeast India’s first exclu-sive hospital for elephants has been established at the Kazir-anga National Park in Assam. The hospital was set up at Mark Shand Memorial Learning Centre in Kaziranga National Park. It was inaugurated by Sir Evelyn de Rothschild who is founding patron of the UK-based charity Elephant Family. Kaziranga National Park was designated with National Park status in 1968 and was declared UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 for its unique natural environment.

October 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:11:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

Jammu & Kashmir High Court ruled that Article 370, granting special status to the state is permanent

Jammu and Kashmir High court has ruled that Article 370, granting special status to the state, has assumed place of permanence in the Constitution and the feature is beyond amendment, repeal or abrogation. The Court also said that Article 35A gives “protection” to existing laws in force in the State. Article 370 though titled as ‘Temporary Provision’ and included in Para XXI titled ‘Temporary, Transitional and Special Provisions’ has assumed place of permanence in the Constitution.

‘House of Kalam’ launches international foundation in Chennai

Three months after former President of India Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam died, his family ‘House of Kalam’ has launched an international foundation to carry forward his good deeds and accomplish the vision envisaged by Abdul Kalam. Legendary music director Illayaraja officially launched the logo of the foundation and pledged his support for the initiative. The family promised that it will realise the dreams of Dr Kalam and hold his flag of education and human values.

Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu declared as ‘AMRUT’ town

Rameshwaram town in Tamil Nadu has been declared as ‘AMRUT’ town on 15 October, 2015 by the Minister of Urban Development. Rameshwaram has been included in Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) for providing basic urban infrastructure.

Tamil Nadu Government banned drug Ketoprofen to save vultures

Tamil Nadu in the second week of October 2015 banned the use of Ketoprofen, a non-steroid antiinflammatory drug (NSAID), which is used extensively for veterinary purposes. The step has been taken to save critically endangered vultures in the state.This drug has been banned in the three western districts of state viz in Erode, Coimbatore and Nilgiris where the vulture population is in danger.

Swadhar Greh scheme approved by Haryana Government for women in distress

The Haryana Government on 18 October 2015 approved Swadhar Greh scheme, which will assure economic and social security to women in distress. The scheme aims at creating a supportive institutional framework catering to their primary needs in difficult situations. The scheme will work upon providing basic amenities, such as shelter, food, clothing and health along with economic and social security to women in distress.

September 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:10:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

Punjab Government wins award for achievement in rooftop solar power output

Punjab Government has won first award in the category of highest capacity addition in grid connected solar rooftop power in the country during the financial year 2014-15. It is one of 5 awards won by Punjab New and Renewable Energy Department (PNRED) for outstanding performance in the various fields of Renewable Energy and Power Generation.

West Bengal Government declassified 64 secret files on Subhash Chandra Bose

West Bengal Government on 18 September in Kolkata declassified 64 secret files on ‘Netaji’ Subhash Chandra Bose. The declassified files contained total 12,744 pages. The files were kept under secrecy for 70 years. The files are being kept at Kolkata police museum. It will be open for public from September 21.

A stadium with the name of Sachin in Kerala

The Kerala Cricket Asso-ciation (KCA) decided to name a newly built cricket stadium in the name of Sachin Tendulkar. There is already a pavilion in the name of Sachin at the Jawaharlal Nehru stadium in Kochi. Sachin Tendulkar act as brand ambassador for the National Games of 2015 which were held in Kerala.

Perumanna Grama Panchayat becomes first Panchayat in Kerala to declare a water policy

In Kerala, Perumanna Grama Panchayat in Kozhikode district has become the first Panchayat in the State, to declare a water policy on the lines of the State government’s water policy declared in 2008.The water policy of Perumanna was drafted with the help of the Centre for Water Resources Development and Management, Kunnamangalam, after a detailed study of water resources and usage in the Panchayat over the last two years.

Rajasthan Assembly passed two bills on Reservations

Rajasthan Legislative Assembly on 22 September 2015 passed two seperate bills providing for 5 percent and 14 percent reservation for Specially Backward Classes (SBC) and Economically Backward Classes (EBC) respectively. The purpose of the bills is to ensure advancement of backward communities and financially weaker sections fo unreserved categories in the State. The names are Rajasthan Special Backward Classes Bill 2015 and Rajasthan Economically Backward Classes Bill 2015.

August 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:08:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

Union Government signed historic peace accord with NSCN (I-M)

Union Government on 3 August 2015 signed a landmark peace accord with the National Socialist Council of Nagaland Isak-Muivah (NSCN (I-M)), putting an end to almost two decades long pending peace talks.The signing of the pact is the end of over 80 rounds of negotiations that spanned 16 years with first breakthrough in 1997 when ceasefire agreement was sealed. Government’s interlocutor for Naga peace talks RN Ravi. inked the document on behalf of the Union government, while NSCN (IM) chairman Isak Chishi Swu and general secretary Thuingaleng Muivah were the signatories on behalf of the Naga organisation.

Jharkhand empowered ACB to arrest Ministers & civil servants in bribery cases without permission: Jharkhand Government on 4 August 2015 empowered Anti Corruption Bureau (ACB) to arrest Minister, MLA and senior civil servants without taking permission from the concerned authorities in cases of being caught on taking bribes.The decision to change the rule of ACB was taken during the state’s cabinet meet chaired by Chief Minister Raghubar Das. With this, the earlier known Vigilance Bureau has been given new name and greater power.

Rajasthan HC banned ‘Santhara’ ritual in Jain Community:

The Rajasthan High Court banned Jain’s ritual ‘Santhara’ (a voluntary and systematic fasting to death), making it punishable under IPC Section 306 (Abetment of Suicide). The ban on the Jain ritual comes after a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by human rights activist and advocate Nikhil Soni a decade ago. The activist claimed the ritual is a social evil and should be considered as suicide.

Amitabh Bachchan as Brand Ambassador for ‘Save the Tiger’ campaign of Maharashtra:

To promote eco tourism, especially tiger tourism in Maharashtra, the Maharashtra Govt. appointed Amitabh Bachchan as ambassador for Maharashtra’s “Save the Tiger“ campaign. At present Maharashtra has six tiger reserves and the tiger population has increased from 103 in 2006 to 169 in 2010,according to the tiger census.

Gujarat to become 1st state to launch ‘agro-solar policy’

‘Agro-solar policy’ is to be launched in Gujarat, making it the first state in India to do so. Under this policy, the farmers will have to tap energy from the sun. This will help them earn additional income from power generation companies. According to officials in Gujarat Energy Research and Management Institute, farmers and power generation companies will be in a win-win situation with generation of solar energy in agricultural fields.

July 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:07:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

Adani Group To Set Up 650 MW Solar Power Plant in Tamil Nadu

Adani Group has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Tamil Nadu Government to set up 650 Mega Watt (MW) solar power plant in Ramanathapuram district. The group will set up five solar power units at a cost of 4,536 crore rupees.

Uttar Pradesh Tops List of States with Highest Mobile Penetration

Uttar Pradesh has highest number of households with a mobile phone (86.63 per cent). In other hand Odisha (33.56 per cent) has the least number of households with a mobile phone as per the Socio Economic and Caste Census 2011.

Asia’s First Armed Forces Preparatory Institute For Women

Asia’s first ever institute to train young women to join armed forces Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Institute was inaugurated by the Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar and Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal in Mohali, Punjab on 25 July. With 25 girls being selected, the one-of-its-kind institute will equip students with skills required in army, navy and air force.

India’s First Railway-Line Built Under PPP model Inaugurated In Gujarat

Minister of Railways Suresh Prabhu on 14 July inaugurated the broad-gauge railway-line between Gandhidham and Tuna-Tekra Port in Gujarat by flagging off a goods train.The rail line is India’s first railway-line built with private sector participation under Non-Government Railway (NGR) Policy 2012 of Indian Railways.

June 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:06:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

Maharashtra Govt Approved new Renewable Energy Policy

Maharashtra government has approved a new Renewable Energy Policy which aims at achieving 14,400 MW of installed capacity over a period of five years i.e. till 2020. The approval decision of new policy worth 4,156.43 crore rupees was taken by state cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra in Mumbai. The policy aims at achieving installed capacity of renewable energy of 21,100 MW by 2020 from current installed capacity of 6,700 MW.

World Bank Approves $ 250 million Loan For Jammu & Kashmir

Multi-lateral lender World Bank on 3 June approved 250 million US dollars loan for Jhelum and Tawi Flood Recovery Project in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). The project will be funded by loan credit from International Development Association (IDA), a World Bank’s concessionary with a maturity of 25 years, including a 5 year grace period.

Haryana’s Jind, Karnal & UP’s Muzaffarnagar Included In NCR

Union Urban Development Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu on 9 June announced that Jind and Karnal districts of Haryana and Muzaffarnagar of Uttar Pradesh have been included in the National Capital Region (NCR). With this the total number of districts included in NCR has risen to 22.

Kerala Govt Declares June 22 as ‘Snake Bird Day’

Kerala Government has declared June 22 as ‘Snake Bird Day’ in a bid to protect the endangered species which is also known as Indian darter.

May 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:05:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

BHEL commissioned 195 MW Thermal Unit of KBUNL In Bihar

State-owned electrical equipment maker Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) on 4 May commissioned a 195 MW thermal unit of Kanti Bijlee Utpadan Nigam Limited (KBUNL) in Muzaffarpur, Bihar. This was the first 195 MW unit to be commissioned by BHEL at the 2×195 MW Muzaffarpur Thermal Power Station (TPS) Plant of KBUNL.

PM Narendra Modi Inaugurated IISCO Steel Plant at Burnpur

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 10 May inaugurated the upgraded IISCO Steel Plant (ISP) in Burnpur, West Bengal. The ISP houses the largest blast furnace of India. The ISP was modernised by the Union Government at a cost of 16000 crore rupees.

UP Govt Launched Samajwadi Water ATM scheme

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav on 12 May launched Samajwadi water ATM scheme at bus stations. It seeks to provide potable water to bus passengers at reasonable price.In this regard, state government will install water ATMs at most of the bus stations which will provide potable water at the rate of 1 rupee per litre and cold water at 2 rupees per litre.

Punjab Becomes First State To Issue Soil Health Cards To Farmers

Punjab Agriculture Department on 13 May launched a pan-state programme to monitor the soil health of every farm in the state by issuing them personalised Soil Health Cards (SHCs). With this, Punjab became the first state in India to issue Soil Health Cards to farmers.Prime Minister had formally launched the nationwide ‘Soil Health Card’ Scheme from Suratgarh, Rajasthan in Februrary 2015.

April 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:04:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

Gujarat Launched Industrial Tourism To Showcase Development

Gujarat government has on 12 April launched industrial tourism package to promote its development by showcasing its major industrial installations which have earned global acclaim for state. It is a first of its kind initiative India, offered by Tourism Corporation of Gujarat Ltd (TCGL) in collaboration with Ahmedabad based Akshar Travels Pvt Ltd. The tour package is called as Industrial Tour of Gujarat will cover some of the major industrial attractions of the state.

Indian Army Conducts Akraman–II Defense Exercise In Rajasthan

Indian Army on 26 April conducted a major exercise ‘Akraman-II’ in Rajasthan. The exercise was conducted by the Chetak Corps, a part of South Western Command based in Bhatinda, Punjab. The exercise aimed to test a new generation of weaponry and platforms which are employed in the desert region to provide ‘real time battle and situational awareness’ to its commanders.

Kerala Govt Launched Subodham Project To End Liquor Abuse

State Government of Kerala on 19 April 2015 launched Subodham project, to help people in the state to overcome addiction to liquor.The project was launched by Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and Art of Living Foundation founder Sri Sri Ravishankar in Kochi.

BHEL commissioned 600 MW thermal Unit In Chhattisgarh

State-owned power equipment-maker Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) on 13 April commissioned a 600 MW thermal unit at Dhabra in Janjgir Champa District of Chhattisgarh for the Dainik Bhaskar Power Limited.This is the second unit of 2 × 600 MW power project, commissioned by BHEL. The first 600 MW Unit was commissioned in 2014.

March 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:02:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

‘ Aapki Beti Humari Beti ‘ Scheme Launched In Haryana

Haryana chief minister Manohar Lal Khattar on 8 March launched a scheme for girl child – ‘Aapki Beti Humari Beti’ – with an aim to combat the problem of declining child sex ratio in the state. The scheme will cover first-born girl child of Scheduled Caste (SC) and Below Poverty Line (BPL) families and all second girl child born on or after 22nd January 2015 of all families in the state.

Maharashtra Government Launched Bhagyashree Scheme

Maharashtra Government has launched ‘Bhagyashree Scheme’ for girl child from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, on 8 March.’ Bhagyashree Scheme’ has replaced the state government’s previous ‘Sukanya Scheme’. Bollywood actress Bhagyashree is the brand ambassador of the scheme. The Bhagyashree scheme aims at providing one lakh rupee on maturity after the girl completes 18 years of age.

Assam Govt Launched “Momai Tamuli Barbaruah Krishak Bondhu” Scheme

Assam government has on 15 March launched the “Momai Tamuli Barbaruah Krishak Bondhu Scheme” to increase agricultural production. Under the programme ‘Momai Tamuli Barbaruah Krishak Bondhu Scheme’, facilities and assistance will be provided for double cropping in all the crop areas which have so far been utilised for single cropping only.

Gujarat Legislative Assembly Passes Anti-Terror Bill

The Gujarat Legislative Assembly on 31 March 2015 passed Gujarat Control of Terrorism and Organized Crime (GUJCOC) Bill, 2015. It is third time this controversial Bill being passed by state assembly. Earlier, passed bill was rejected two times by the then Presidents in 2004 and 2008 for reconsideration.

January 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:01:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

PM Narendra Modi Launched Scheme For LED bulb Distribution In Delhi

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 5 January launched a scheme for distribution of LED bulbs under the Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme in Delhi and a National Programme for LED-based Home and Street Lighting. Under the scheme, consumers in Delhi would be able to request for LED bulbs under the Domestic Efficient Lighting Programme through a new Website launched by Narendra Modi.

Presidential Rule Imposed In Jammu and Kashmir

President’s rule was imposed on Jammu and Kashmir on 9 January.President Pranab Mukherjee approved the recommendation of the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir N N Vohra. Governor N N Vohra had recommended for President Rule in light of deadlock over the formation of the new government continued in Jammu and Kashmir.

Dima Hasao District Of Assam Got Its First Broad Gauge Railway Track

Dima Hasao District of Assam got its first broad gauge railway track on 12 January. A goods train with 43 wagons reached the main railway station of the Dima Hasao district using this broad gauge track.The train in its first ever journey covered 98 km from Patharkhula station to New-Haflong station while crossing 9 tunnels, 15 stations, 15 major bridges and 135 minor bridges.The passenger trains will also be commissioned on the route from Pathakhula to New-Haflong on the track that is extended up to Silchar after the approval of Railway Safety Commission.

UN Chief Inaugurates Gujarat’s Second Canal-Top 10-MW Solar Power Project

United Nations (UN) Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on 11 January inaugurated Gujarat’s second canal-top 10-MW solar power project.It is located on 5.5 km stretch of Vadodara branch of Sardar Sarovar project canal. The plant is constructed by the Sardar Sarovar Narmada Nigam Limited and is the first of its kind in the country.It is implemented by Hyderabad-based Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Limited (MEIL).

February 2015 Year State Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 11:00:00 +0000

STATE CURRENT AFFAIRS

Maharashtra Govt Planning To Revamp Jeevan Amrut Yojana

Maharashtra Government is planning to revamp the Jeevan Amrut Yojana (blood-on-call) scheme to make it more beneficial to people. State government is seeking to strengthen the network of blood storage units in rural areas instead of current mechanism of transporting blood through motorcycles. It is first of its kind scheme in the country, launched in 2014. It aimed at facilitating blood supply to patients scheduled to undergo surgeries and medical procedures in remote areas.

Adani To Set Up Country’s Largest 10,000 MW solar Plant In Rajasthan

Adani Enterprises Ltd on 9 February signed a pact with the Rajasthan government to develop the country’s largest solar park in the state with 10,000 MW capacity over the next 10 years at an estimated investment of about Rs 40,000 crore. The company will set up solar power project of 5000 MW on its own in the next five years. The Adani Group will also develop solar manufacturing units and power evacuation systems.

Delhi Assembly Elections 2015 Results Declared

The Election Commission of India (ECI) on 10 February declared the results of Delhi Legislative Assembly Elections 2015. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) headed by social activist turned politician Arvind Kejriwal with 67 seats has emerged as the largest party in the house of 70 seats. Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) – Won record 67 seats with record vote share of 54.2% percent. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) – Won 3 seats with vote share of 32.3% percent. 2015 Delhi Legislative Assembly elections were held on 7 February 2015 to elect 70 members of the Sixth Delhi Legislative Assembly.

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Launched CCTNS

Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh on 11 February launched the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network System (CCTNS) project in the state. This 19 crore rupees project will be completely funded by the Union Government. It will help in connecting 177 sites and 114 police stations in the state besides 13 district headquarters, 26 sub-divisional police officers and three police ranges along with state crime records bureau.

January2016 Year National Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 10:11:00 +0000

NATIONAL

India to implement stricter emission norms from April 1, 2020

In a bid to curb vehicular pollution, the government on 6 January 2016 decided to implement stricter emission norms of Bharat Stage (BS) VI from 1 April 2020 by skipping BS-V altogether. At present, BS IV norms are followed in parts of India and by 1 April 2017, the whole of the country is scheduled to be covered under it. Government has decided to leapfrog from BSIV to BS-VI directly by 1 April 2020. Government decided to skip BS V emission norms.

Bypolls to 12 Assembly seats in eight States on February 13

The Election Commission on 12 January 2016 announced bypolls to 12 Assembly constituencies in eight States, including Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Karnataka and Maharashtra, to be held on 13 February 2016. Muzzafarnagar, Deoband and Bikapur in U.P., Devadurga, Bidar and Hebbal in Karnataka, Khadoor Sahib in Punjab, Palghar in Maharashtra, Harlakhee in Bihar, Amarpur in Tripura, Narayankhed in Telangana and Maihar in Madhya Pradesh are the constituencies going to polls on February 13.The notification will be issued on January 20, while January 27 will be the last date of filing nominations. While candidates can withdraw from the electoral race till January 30, the polls will be held on February 13. Counting will be held on February 16.

NHAI signs MoU with ISRO and NECTAR

On 13 January 2016 NHAI signed Memorandum of Understanding with National Remote Sensing Centre (NRSC) under Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and North East Centre for Technology Application and Research (NECTAR) for use of spatial technology for monitoring and managing National Highways.

Aadhar Card UIDAI Scheme has Helped Reduce Corruption : World Bank

The World Bank released its report titled ‘World Development Report 2016: Digital Dividends’ on January 14, 2016. As per the report although internet, mobile phones and other digital technologies are spreading fast especially in the developing countries, the anticipated effect of these services in the fields of employment generation, higher economic growth and better public services have remained below expectations. In case of India it especially noted and appreciated the Aadhar card unique identification scheme launched by the Government of India. The World Bank noted that the Aadhar scheme has helped in streamlining public services and also helped in reducing corruption in India.

500-strong women troops commissioned into ITBP

A trained contingent of 500 women personnel, which will be the first ‘mahila’ squad to be deployed in highaltitude posts along the India-China border, was on 15 January 2016 commissioned into the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) in Panchkula.The women, in the rank of constable, were inducted in the border-guarding force after 44-weeks of training in battle craft and mountain survival and will now be sent to frontier areas for final acclimatisation before being deployed at ITBP posts along the Sino-India Line of Actual Control (LAC). These ‘mahila’ contingents are expected to be posted by March 2016 at about 20 forward locations of the ITBP.

For first time in 66 years, no camel contingent at Republic-Day parade

For the first time in the history of the Republic Day celebrations, the iconic Border Security Force (BSF) camel contingent will not be ambling down the Rajpath in Delhi on January 26.While the contingent is in Delhi since the last few months, it has not been included in the rehearsals.The camel contingent first became a part of the national festival celebration in 1976 after it replaced a similar squad of the Army, which had been participating in the Republic Day parade since the first such event in 1950.

January 2016 Year International Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 10:10:00 +0000

INTERNATIONAL

Ruling conservative People’s Party wins Spain’s general election

Ruling conservative People’s Party (PP) of Spain led Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy by has won the 2015 general election of the country. In the general election, PP won the 123 seats by securing in the lower house of the 350-member Parliament and securing 28.7 percent vote share. Now the People’s Party has to form a coalition government with support of other political parties to govern for another four-year term.

Philippines – First Asian country to approve sale of dengue vaccine

Philippines became the first Asian country to approve the sale of the world’s first ever dengue vaccine Dengvaxia in the country. The Dengvaxia vaccine has been manufactured by French pharmaceutical manufacturer Sanofi Pasteur. It has been designed to protect people in the 9-45 age groups from all four subtypes of the virus. Earlier it secured its first regulatory approval in Mexico a fortnight ago and is currently being reviewed by around 20 countries in Asia and Latin America. Clinical tests of the vaccine carried out on 40,000 people from 15 countries by the company has shown that vaccine can immunise two-thirds of people aged 9-45.

China passes first law against domestic violence

China’s parliament adopted the countries first law against domestic violence bringing traditionally silent abuse victim, including couples who are in live- in relation ship , under legal protection. The new law passed by the chineese national legislature, prohibits any form of domestic violence, including Psycological abuse. The legislation was approved at the end of a week-long bi monthly session of the National people’s congress (NPC) standing committee.

Cabinet approved India joining the International Energy Agency Ocean Energy Systems

On 13 January 2016 the Union Cabinet, chaired by the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi gave its approval for India becoming a member country of the International Energy Agency – Ocean Energy Systems (IEA-OES) by signing the Implementing Agreement (IA). The nodal agency for the membership would be Earth System Science Organisation – National Institute of Ocean Technology (ESSO-NIOT) under the Ministry of Earth Sciences. By becoming a member of the IEA-OES, India will have access to advanced R&D teams and technologies across the world. India will partner in developing test protocols along with other countries. This will help in testing Indian prototypes as per international requirements and norms.

WHO Declares End to EbolaOutbreak in West Africa

The World Health Organization on 14 January 2016 declared an end to the Ebola outbreak in Liberia- marking the first time since the outbreak began in 2014 that the three hardest hit countries (including Sierra Leone and Guinea) have been considered Ebola-free. To be declared Ebola-free, the countries had to have no cases for 42 days( or two 21-day incubation cycles of the virus).

January 2016 Current Affairs International, National, Sports, Awards, Committees, Science and Technology Study Material

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 10:06:00 +0000

INTERNATIONAL

Ruling conservative People’s Party wins Spain’s general election

Philippines – First Asian country to approve sale of dengue vaccine

China passes first law against domestic violence

Cabinet approved India joining the International Energy Agency Ocean Energy Systems

WHO Declares End to EbolaOutbreak in West Africa

INDIA & WORLD

Russia inks deal with HAL to manufacture 200 Kamov helicopters

Russia’s Rostech State Corporation has signed one billion US dollar deal with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to manufacture 200 Kamov 226T light helicopters. These helicopters will be manufactured under make in India initiative and shall replace the ageing fleet of Cheetah and Chetak helicopters. This is the first Russian-Indian high-tech project implemented by the Indian government within the framework of the ‘Make in India’ programme with the help of Russia. Under this manufacturing deal Rostech State Corporation will organize in India the production of Russian Ka-226T and its modifications in around 200 units. It will also carry out maintenance, operation and repair of helicopters.

Cabinet approves MoU with Singapore to manage airports

The Union Cabinet on 6 January 2016 approved the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with Singapore for operating and maintaining the terminal building of airports at Jaipur and Ahmedabad. This is the first time the Airports Authority of India will award operation and maintenance contract to any entity for terminal building. The objective of this MoU is to establish mutual cooperation in the field of civil aviation. The MoU envisages collaboration with Singapore in areas such as traffic development, commercial development, master planning and design, training and development, cargo handling and management among others.

India signed loan agreement with Japan to clean Mula Mutha river in Pune

The Government of India on 13 January 2016 signed a loan agreement with Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) for pollution abatement of River Mula-Mutha in Pune under National River Conservation Plan (NRCP) in the presence of Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in Pune .The Government of Japan has committed to provide a soft loan of 19.064 billion Yen (about Rs. 1000 crore) to Government of India for the project at an interest rate of 0.30% per annum.

India, Japan conducted joint exercise ‘Sahyog-Kaijin’ off Chennai coast

Ships and aircraft of the Indian Coast Guard and the Japan Coast Guard came together to train for the 15th edition of ‘Sahyog-Kaijin’ joint exercise in the Bay of Bengal off the Chennai coast on 15 January 2016. This is the second time in three months a ship from the Japanese military forces is participating in a military exercise along with India. In October last year, Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force’s ship FS Fuyuzuk participated in exercise ‘Malabar’ with ships and aircraft of the Indian and the United States navies.While India was represented by ICGS Samudra Paheredar, ICGS Sarang, ICGS Vishwast, ICGS Rajtarang, ICGS Rajkamal and a Dornier Do 226 and chetak helicopters in ‘Sahyog-Kaijin XV’, Japan Coast Guard’s JCGS Echigo with its integral helicopter took part in the exercise.

MoU between India and Britain for cooperation in public administration

The union cabinet on 20 January 2016 gave its expost facto approval for the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India and Britain for cooperation in public administration and governance reforms.The meeting of the union cabinet was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.The form of co-operation will be in areas like sharing good governance practices in public administration, user led service design, reducing bureaucracy in service delivery, government process re-engineering, building and developing staff capability, public grievance redress mechanism, local government reforms, reforms towards strengthening of social security, collaboration in strategies for promotion of ethics in government, collaboration between government and industry on staff management, mechanisms for public engagement, crisis and disaster management and digital transformation of government.

NATIONAL

India to implement stricter emission norms from April 1, 2020

Bypolls to 12 Assembly seats in eight States on February 13

NHAI signs MoU with ISRO and NECTAR

Aadhar Card UIDAI Scheme has Helped Reduce Corruption : World Bank

500-strong women troops commissioned into ITBP

For first time in 66 years, no camel contingent at Republic-Day parade

STATES

Dress Code For Devotees Visiting Tamil Nadu Shrines From January

Devotees entering temples in Tamil Nadu will have to follow a new dress code from January 1 as several important shrines have put up notice boards highlighting this.The dress code for entering the temples was being followed on the orders of the Madras High court on December 1. According to a notice board outside the Palani temple, male devotees have been advised to wear dhoti, shirt, pyjama or pant and shirt while women and girls should wear saris or churidhar or ‘pavadai’ with half-sari. Devotees wearing lungi, bermudas, jeans and tight-leggings would not be allowed.

Jharkhand first state to sign MoU with Centre for power scheme UDAY

Jharkhand state become first state in country to sign Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Ujwal Discom Assurance Yojana (UDAY) scheme with Union Government on 5 January 2016. In this regard a tripartite MoU was signed between the state government, Union Ministry of Power and state power distributor Jharkhand Bijli Vitaran Nigam Ltd (JBVNL). With this, the total number of states that would be joining UDAY become 15. The other states that are on board UDAY are Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Jammu&Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh. Besides, four major states — Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Maharashtra and Odisha — have already given their in-principle approval to join UDAY.

Kerala became first State to achieve 100% primary education

Kerala became the first state in the country to achieve 100 percent primary education.This was declared by the Vice President of India Hamid Ansari on 12 January 2016 at a special ceremony organised at Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. The success of Kerala in achieving total primary education can be attributed to various initiatives undertaken by the Kerala Literacy Mission in the last two decades. Especially, the Athulyam Scheme, which was implemented in two stages, played a key role in addressing the educational needs of illiterate adults. The second stage of the scheme, namely Mission 676, targeted those between ages 15 and 50 who, for one reason or the other, dropped out of the formal education process. Prior to the Athulyam Scheme, the fourth standard equivalency programme was started in 2000 in association with local bodies. As a result, Kannur became the first district in the country to achieve total primary education in 2001.

Maharashtra Government inks MoU with Tata Trust for skill training of youth

Bihar Government announced 35% reservation for women in all govt jobs

CONFERENCES

Prime Minister inaugurated 103rd edition of the Indian Science Congress (ISC)

The Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 103rd edition of the Indian Science Congress (ISC) in Mysore on 3 January 2016. The event is being held at the University of Mysore from January 3 to 7 and the theme of this edition of the event is ‘Science & Technology for Indigenous Development in India’. More than 15000 delegates from across India. Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA) is a premier scientific organisation of India and it has been hosting the ISC since 1914. Narendra Modi calling on Indian scientists to keep the economy, environment, energy, empathy and equity at the heart of their endeavors in the interest of impactful science.

CII Partnership Summit 2016 concluded in Visakhapatnam

The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) in partnership with the Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion, Ministry of Commerce and Industry and the State Government of Andhra Pradesh presents the 22nd edition of the Partnership Summit from 10 – 12 January 2016 at APIIC Ground, Harbour Park, Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. Ms Nirmala Sitharaman, Hon’ble Minister for Commerce and Industry, is the Chair of the Summit and the State Government of Andhra Pradesh is the ‘Partner State’ for this edition of the prestigious initiative.

AWARDS & HONOURS

Israeli journalist, Palestinian pastor won Swedish rights prize

Israeli journalist Gideon Levy and Palestinian pastor Mitri Raheb on 7 January 2016 won the 2015 Olof Palme human rights prize for their “fight against occupation and violence”.Levy, a journalist at the left leaning Israeli daily Haaretz, and Raheb, a preacher and pastor in the Lutheran church in Bethlehem, were honoured for their “courageous and indefatigable fight against occupation and violence, and for a future Middle East characterised by peaceful coexistence and equality for all”. Levy has published articles opposing the Israeli army’s operations in Gaza in December 2008-January 2009 and in July-August 2014. The Olof Palme Prize is an annual prize worth $75,000 (69,000 euros) awarded by the Swedish labour movement. It commemorates the memory of the Nordic country’s Social Democratic prime minister Olof Palme, an outspoken international human rights advocate who was assassinated in the Swedish capital in 1986.Since 1987 the award has honoured human rights defenders around the world including Burma’s Aung San Suu Kyi and former UN Secretary General Kofi Annan.

ISRO chairman received Reva Lifetime Achievement Award

ISRO chairman A.S. Kiran Kumar received Reva Lifetime Achievement Award. The award, carrying a purse of Rs. 1 lakh and a citation, presented to him on Founder’s Day that will be held on the university’s premises (Rukmini Knowledge Park, Yelahanka, Bangalore).

EPFO bags National Award on e-Governance

The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation has won the National Award on e-Governance 2015-16 for launching the Universal Account Number (UAN). The UAN facility enables workers to transfer their provident fund deposits while switching jobs anywhere in India easily. The EPFO won the gold award in the ‘innovative use of technology in e-governance’ category and the retirement body will get a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh. The award will be presented by the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions to the EPFO in the 19th National Conference on e-governance to be held in Nagpur on January 22.

Prime Minister conferred the Times Now Amazing Indians Awards 2016

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 14 January 2016 conferred the Times Now Amazing Indians Awards 2016 to all the awardees. The awards were given in recognition of great achievements in the face of adversity.

Oscar nominations 2016:‘Revenant’ leads with12

The 88th annual Academy Award nominations were announced on 14 January 2016 in Los Angeles. The Revenant led all films with 12 nominations, followed closely by Mad Max: Fury Road with 10. The Martian landed in third with seven nominations. The Academy chose to nominate eight films for Best Picture this year, as it did last year, and they ranged from small, quiet stories like Brooklyn to the action movie bombast of Mad Max. It’s a much better lineup than 2015’s.

SPORTS & GAMES

India beat Afghanistan 2-1 to lift SAFF Cup title for 7th time

India defeated Afghanistan 2-1 in final match held in Thiruvananthapuram on 3 January 2016 to won the SAFF Cup for the seventh time.Previously India won in 1993, 1997, 1999, 2005, 2009, 2011 and now 2015. 2015 SAFF Cup was the 11th edition of the biennial SAFF Championship and was held at Trivandrum International Stadium, Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala). The 2017 SAFF Cup will be hosted by Bangladesh.

Pranav Dhanawade Scores 1009 runs in 323 balls

Mumbai teenager Pranav Dhanawade on 5 January 2015 scripted history by becoming the first batsman ever to notch up a four-figure score by smashing an unbeaten knock of 1,009 in an inter-school tournament in Mumbai.Pranav Dhanawade, the opening batsman of Smt KC Gandhi School (Kalyan), scored an unbeaten 1009 off 323 balls, a knock which comprised 129 fours and 59 sixes against Arya Gurukul School. He batted for 395 minutes and had a strike rate of 312.38. This innings came in the HT Bhandari Cup inter-school tournament organised by the Mumbai Cricket Association (MCA).

Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis won WTA Brisbane trophy

Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis won their sixth consecutive title by lifting the WTA Brisbane trophy, in Brisbane on 9 January 2016. They defeated the German players Angelique Kerber and Andrea Petkovic 7-5, 6-1. Sania-Martina has won 26 consecutive matches and this is their sixth consecutive title. They are on course to beat the record of 28 consecutive wins in doubles set by Gigi Fernandez and Natasha Zvereva in 1994.

Nick Kyrgios, Daria Gavrilova lift Australia to Hopman Cup title

Nick Kyrgios and Daria Gavrilova had singles wins over Ukraine to lead Australia Green to the Hopman Cup, the country’s first title in the mixed-team event in 17 years. Gavrilova’s 6-4, 7-6 (6) victory over Elina Svitolina gave Australia a 1-0 lead before Kyrgios clinched the title with a 6-3, 6-4 win over Alexandr Dolgopolov.

Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis created world record by winning 29 matches in a row

India’s Sania Mirza and her Swiss partner Martina Hingis broke a 22-year-old world record by winning their 29th women’s doubles match in a row en route to their entry into the women’s doubles final of the WTA Sydney International, in Sydney on 14 January 2016. They defeated the Romanian Raluca Olaru and Kazakhstan’s Yaroslava Shvedova 4-6, 6-3, 10-8 in the semi-final. The Sania-Hingis duo has now surpassed the pair of Puerto Rican Gigi Fernandez and Belarus’ Natasha Zvereva, who won 28 matches on the trot.

Sania Mirza, Martina Hingis Won Sydney International Title

Sania Mirza and Martina Hingis lifted their second trophy of the season as they won the WTA Sydney International defeating Caroline Garcia and Kristina Mladenovic 1-6, 7-5, 10-5 on 15 January 2016. This was their 30th win. It was the 11th title together for the Indo-Swiss pair. In 2015, they won nine titles including the year-end WTA Finals.

ECONOMY

RBI extends deadline to exchange pre-2005 notes to June 30, 2016

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has extended the deadline for exchanging pre-2005 currency notes of various denominations by another six months to June 30, 2016. From January 1, 2016 such facility for exchanging pre-2005 currency notes will only be available at identified bank branches and Issue Offices of the RBI. Earlier in June 2015, RBI had set the last date for public to exchange pre-2005 banknotes notes as December 31, 2015. It is fourth time RBI has extended the deadline for exchanging pre-2005 currency notes since March 2014. Till date RBI has shredded over 164 crore pre-2005 currency notes of various denominations, including of Rs 1,000 with the face value of around Rs 21,750 crore in its regional offices.

United Nations ushers in ambitious 2030 Sustainable Development Goals

UN on 1 January 2015 ushered in the ambitious 2030 Sustainable Development Goals that aim to end poverty, hunger and assure gender equally while building a life of dignity for all over the next 15 years. The 15-year cycle of the anti-poverty Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) came to an end with 2015 paving the way for the SDGs, an even more ambitious set of goals to banish a host of social ills by 2030. These goals were adopted unanimously by 193 Heads of State and other top leaders at a summit in September 2015.

Reliance to set up Rs. 5,000-crore naval shipbuilding unit near Vizag

Reliance Group, led by billionaire Anil Ambani, will set up a naval ship-building facility near Visakhapatnam at a cost of Rs. 5,000 crore. It is the single biggest investment in Andhra Pradesh after its bifurcation.A memorandum of understanding to build the facility was signed between Reliance ADA Group Chairman, Anil Ambani and AP Chief Minister, N. Chandrababu Naidu, at the CII Partnership Summit and Sunrise AP Investment Meet on 10 January 2016.Reliance will establish the facility at Rambilli, about 70 km from Vizag.

Walmart to close 269 stores, lay off 16,000 employees

Retail giant Walmart Stores, Inc. on 15 January 2016 announced to close 269 stores and lay off 16,000 employees, including 6,000 of them outside the U.S. It would close its 154 stores in the U.S. and 115 others abroad. The company is shutting down 60 stores in Brazil, a market in which the world’s largest retailer has made a big push in recent years.The company said it had already been able to “relocate” most of the employees affected by the store closings to other points of sale. The other 55 stores to be closed outside the United States are mostly “small, loss-making stores in other Latin American markets,”.

World Bank to fund 20 million US dollar for reconstructing Indira Gandhi Zoological Park

The World Bank decided to give an assistance of 20 million US dollar to reconstruct the Indira Gandhi Zoological Park . The park was devastated during cyclone Hudhud in October 2014 in Visakhapatnam. It is for the first time that World Bank is directly involved in a zoo.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

New planet “Wolf 1061c” close to Earth found

In a recent discovery, Australian astronomers have found the possibly nearest habitable planet near Earth. Titled as “Wolf 1061c”, the red dwarf star is around 14 light years away from earth, in the constellation Ophiuchus. It has been detected by scientists at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Australia. The new planet is one of the three planets that are likely to be solid and rocky. One of the three planets, Wolf 1061c, exists with in the ‘Goldilocks zone’ at a distance from the star that is not too hot and not too cold for liquid water. This leads to the speculations of possibility of life on the planet.

SpaceX launches reusable rocket ‘Falcon 9’

SpaceX successfully launched reusable spacecraft by making a Falcon 9 booster the first piece of an orbital rocket to land back on Earth minutes after lofting satellites towards orbit. The SpaceX Falcon 9 lifts off and then returns to a landing zone at the Cape Canaveral air force station in Florida. The two stage rocket propelled it’s payload of 11 Orbcomm Inc. Satellites aloft. It was the company’s first flight. SpaceX’s upgraded design for it’s Falcon 9 rocket worked flawlessly.

Barak 8 Missile successfully tested

India and Israel jointly developed Long Range Surface to Air Missile (LRSAM) Barak 8 was successfully test fired from INS Kolkata. The firing trial of the LR SAM has been jointly carried out by the Indian Navy, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Israel Aerospace Industries. This missile along with the Multi-Functional Surveillance and Threat Alert Radar (MF STAR) would provide these ships the capability to neutralize aerial threats at extended ranges.

“.cn” becomes world’s largest code domain

China’s country code domain ‘.cn’ has become the world’s most commonly used in the internet with 16.36 million users, surpassing Germany’s ‘.de’ domain. According to the data released on 8 January 2016 by the China Internet Network Information Centre (CNNIC), which manages the domain,‘.cn’ had 16.36 million users by the end of 2015.The ‘.cn’ domain is also world leading in domain resolution service, security and the ratio of benign uses.It is used by all central and provincial governments in China and most telecom companies besides commercial banks.Multinationals including Apple, Microsoft, Amazon and Citibank are among those using it. China has around 670 million internet users and over 4.13 million websites, according to the official data.

ISRO successfully launched the fifth navigation satellite IRNSS-1E

Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle, in its 33rd flight (PSLV-C31), launched IRNSS-1E, the fifth satellite of the Indian Regional Navigation Satellite System (IRNSS). The launch took place on 20 January 2016 from Satish Dhawan Space Centre (SDSC) SHAR, Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.IRNSS-1E is the fifth navigation satellite of the seven satellites constituting the IRNSS space segment. Its predecessors, IRNSS-1A, 1B, 1C and 1D were launched by PSLV-C22, PSLV-C24, PSLV-C26 and PSLV-C27 in July 2013, April 2014, October 2014 and March 2015 respectively. IRNSS-1E has a lift-off mass of 1425 kg. The configuration of IRNSS-1E is similar to that of IRNSS-1A, 1B, 1C and 1D. IRNSS-1E carries two types of payloads – navigation payload and ranging payload. The navigation payload of IRNSS-1E will transmit navigation service signals to the users. This payload will be operating in L5-band and S-band. A highly accurate Rubidium atomic clock is part of the navigation payload of the satellite. The ranging payload of IRNSS- 1E consists of a C-band transponder which facilitates accurate determination of the range of the satellite. IRNSS-1E also carries Corner Cube Retro Reflectors for laser ranging.

PERSONS IN NEWS

A) APPOINTMENTS

R K Mathur appointed as CIC

Former Defence Secretary Radha Krishna Mathur has been appointed as Chief Information Commissioner (CIC). He will have tenure of about three years (2017) till he attain the age of 65. He succeeds Vijai Sharma as he has retired after completion of his tenure. R K Mathur is a retired IAS officer of Tripura cadre. He had served as Defence Secretary for two years. He also had served as Secretary Union Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) and Defence Production and Supplies.

Air Marshal Bhadauria takes over as Deputy Chief of Air Staff of IAF

Air Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria took over as Deputy Chief of the Air Staff on 1 January 2016. He is an alumnus of the National Defence Academy and was commissioned in the IAF in June 1980. Prior to taking over as DCAS, Air Marshal Bhadauria was Senior Air Staff Officer at Central Air Command of IAF.

Abid Ali Z. Neemuchwala appointed as CEO of Wipro

India’s third largest IT exporter Wipro Limited has appointed Abid Ali Z. Neemuchwala as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Member of the Board of the company. He succeed incumbent CEO T.K. Kurien who has been elevated as the Executive Vice Chairman of the company. Prior to this appointment Neemuchwala was serving as the chief operating officer (COO) of the company since April 2015. Before joining Wipro, he was working with India’s largest IT exporter Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) for 23 years.

Sikri takes over as new CCI chairman

Former Gujarat cadre IAS officer Devender Kumar Sikri has taken oath as the Chairman of Competition Commission of India on 11 January 2016. Mr. Sikri, a 1975 batch IAS officer, replaces Ashok Chawla who demitted office on January 7 and will be the third chairman of the CCI. Mr. Chawla had taken over from Dhanendra Kumar, who demitted office in June 2011. The 62-year-old Mr. Sikri, who superannuated as secretary, department of justice in July 31, 2013, will have a two and-a-half year tenure (till he attains 65 years of age).

Binny Bansal appointed as CEO of Flipkart

E-commerce firm Flipkart on 11 January 2016 appointed Binny Bansal as the Chief Executive Officer and Sachin Bansal as the Executive Chairman.” Sachin Bansal, CEO and co-founder of Flipkart, will be the Executive Chairman of the company and Binny Bansal, COO and co-founder of Flipkart, will be the Chief Executive Officer”. In his role as the Executive Chairman, Sachin will provide strategic direction and mentor the senior leadership as also look for new investment opportunities. While, Binny as the CEO will now be responsible for operationally driving the company and be accountable for Flipkart’s overall performance.

B) RESIGNS

Blatter Resigns from FIFA Amid

After proclaiming himself “President of every body” seep blatter had announced his resignation as president of FIFA he spent 17 years at the helm of FIFA and 40 years as an employee with in soccer’s International governing body.

Bobby Jindal resigns as Louisiana Governor

The governor of Louisiana in America, the Indian person Bobby Jindal resigns his post at end of his second four-year term. Bel Edwards the democratic governor in Deep South is now in that governor position Jindal is the first Indian to hold such a position.

C) DEATHS

Veteran Communist Party leader A.B. Bardhan dead

Veteran Communist Party of India (CPI) leader and former general secretary of the party Ardhendu Bhushan Bardhan died in New Delhi on 2 January 2016. Ardhendu Bhushan Bardhan was born in Barisal, Bengal Presidency in present-day Bangladesh on 25 September 1924. Bardhan held a postgraduate degree in economics and a degree in law.A.B. Bardhan was elected as a member of the Maharashtra assembly from Nagpur in 1957.

Music artist David Bowie passed away

Music Legend David Bowie died on 11 January 2016 at the age of 69 following a battle with cancer. The singer released his latest album Blackstar on his birthday on January 8. His last live performance was at a New York charity concert in 2006. Blackstar, which includes just seven songs, has been well received by critics.

Lagaan actor Rajesh Vivek dies

Actor Rajesh Vivek, mainly known for his roles in super hits like Lagaan and Swades, died due to a heart attack in Hyderabad on 14 January 2016. Vivek was first introduced by Shyam Benegal in his film Junoon (1978). Basically a theatre actor, he had also acted in popular television series like Mahabharata, Bharat Ek Khoj and Aghori. He made his mark as a villain in the beginning with films like Veerana and Joshilay, often playing roles of henchman, but later on he started doing comic and supporting roles. Some of his latest films include Bunty Aur Babli, Bhoot Uncle, What is Your Rashee, Agneepath, Son of Sardaar & Dishkiyaoon. He had played the role of a dreaded dacoit in Bandit Queen.

Bollywood filmmaker Anil Ganguly passes away

Anil Ganguly died on Jaunary 15, 2016. He was an Indian film director and screenwriter. Anil worked in Hindi cinema from 1970s to the 1990s. Ganguly was best known for Jaya Bhaduri starrer, Kora Kagaz (1974) and Tapasya (1975), both of which won the National Film. Award for Best Popular Film Providing Wholesome Entertainment. Ganguly other noted film was Anil Kapoor and Amrita Singh starred Saaheb (1985). Later in is career, Anil made several actions films, mostly with Mithun Chakraborty. Gangulay started his career making literary adaptations with strong female roles and themes of marital discord.

Veteran journalist Dr. Aroon Tikekar passed away

Mumbai Veteran journalist and author of 20 books in English and Marathi, Dr.Aroon Tikekar died on 19 January 2016 following respiratory complications. He was 72.Aroon Tikekar worked as a college teacher for some years.From 1991 to 2002, he worked as an editor of the Marathi newspaper Loksatta.

D) VISITORS

Syrian Foreign Minister visits India before peace talks

Syria’s foreign minister arrived in New Delhi on 11 January 2016 for talks with his Indian counterpart, trying to build international support for President Bashar al-Assad’s government before peace talks in Geneva. Peace talks between Assad’s government and the Syrian opposition are due to begin on 25 January 2016 as part of an ambitious 18-month plan endorsed by the UN Security Council. Syrian Foreign Minister Walid Muallem meet Sushma Swaraj and “other government functionaries” during a three-day official visit.

Sushma Swaraj to visit Palestine, Israel

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj will visit Israel and Palestine on January 17-18 to further build on the goodwill generated by the trip of President Pranab Mukherjee to the two West Asian nations three months back.Palestine will be Ms. Swaraj’s first destination where she will hold talks with leadership of the country with an aim to boost bilateral engagement and deepen mutual understanding at the political level.After completing her engagements in Palestine on January 17, Ms. Swaraj will go to Israel the same day for a two-day visit during which she will hold discussions with the Israeli leadership and review the entire gamut of India-Israel relations.

Indian Foriegn Secretary Jaishankar visit Colombo

Indian Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar on 12 January 2016 arrived in Sri Lanka to hold bilateral discussions with the island nation’s leadership. Mr. Jaishankar is expected to meet Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe and Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera among other dignitaries, According to the report, during the course of his visit, Mr. Jaishankar is expected to pave the way for the India-Sri Lanka Joint Commission (ISLJC) meeting scheduled to be held in Colombo next month. External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is likely to attend the ISJLC meeting.

E) MISCELLANEOUS

Sainthood’ to Mother Teresa

Mother Teresa, a Roman Catholic religious sister and missionary, will be given Sainthood i.e. will be made a saint of the Roman Catholic Church in September 2016. Pope Francis has recognized a second miracle attributed to Mother Teresa, intercession with God. Earlier in 2003, Mother Teresa was beatified by then late John Paul. Beatification requires one miracle and is the last step before sainthood. Mother founded the Missionaries of Charity and spent 45-years serving the poor, sick, orphaned and dying on the streets of Kolkata. She won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979. Padma Shri (1962) and Bharat Ratna (1980).

Miss Philippines crowned Miss Universe-2015

Miss Philippines Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach crowned Miss Universe 2015 at the final of 64th edition of Miss Universe held in Las Vegas, the USA. She was crowned by Miss Universe 2014 winner Paulina Vega of Columbia. Urvashi Rautela who represented India in the contest couldn’t make it top 15 semi-finals round.

Obama as most popular leader

US President Barack Obama has been named as Most Popular Leader in the World. Whereas, Indian Prime Minister occupied 7th Position in the poll participated by people of 65 countries. Obama received 59 percent votes in his favour as opposed by 29 percent unfavourable. German Chancellor Angela Merkel and British Prime Minister David Cameron were ranked as Second and Third for a score of +13 percent & +10 percent respectively. Chinese President Xi Hinping stood at 6th Position. Modi garnered 24 percent favourable and 20 percent unfavourable votes to settle with a score of +4 percent. While French President Hollande and Russian PM Vladimir Putin came 4th and 5th in the poll, Brazil President Dilma, Saudi Arabia King Salman bin Abdulaziz al Saud and Iran President Hassan Rouhani were at 8th, 9th and 10th Positions respectively.

Smriti Irani inaugurated 43rd New Delhi World Book Fair

Human Resource Minister Smriti Irani on 9 January 2016 inaugurated the 43rd edition of the New Delhi World Book Fair which commenced in New Delhi with China as the guest of honour country and a theme presentation of the cultural heritage of India. The nineday fair, touted as the largest in Asia, is hosting about 30 countries in which a series of programmes including panel discussions, dramas, classical and folk dances, workshops, discussions, authors’ meets, conferences, seminars and cultural programmes will be held.

Indian-origin girl tops Mensa test in UK

A 11-year-old Indian-origin girl in the UK has achieved the top possible score of 162 on a IQ test of Mensa, becoming one of the youngest brainiest students in the country. Mumbai-born Kashmea Wahi achieved the top score of 162 out of 162, putting her in the league of scientists Albert Einstein and Steven Hawking and in the top 1 per cent of the country’s brightest. Both Hawking and Einstein are thought to have an IQ of 160.

PLACES IN NEWS

India’s biggest wildlife rescue centre in Nagpur

India’s biggest Wildlife Rescue Centre named as Gorewada Zoo and Wildlife Rescue Centre has been commissioned at Gorewada near Nagpur, Maharashtra. The centre was inaugurated by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in presence of State Forest Minister Sudhir Mungantiwa. Gorewada Zoo and Wildlife Rescue Center is managed by the Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra (FDCM). Nagpur based Maharashtra Animal and Fisheries (MAF) University is also part of this centre. It has cages for herbivorous animals and would house Deer, Sambars and Nilgais. It also has two enclosures to house 10 Tigers at a time and also separate enclosure for Panthers. It also has separated enclosure for housing Pythons including Cobra, Rat Snakes and vipers. The centre also has enclosures for housing 10 small mammals like Wolf, wild Dogs, Jackal.

NIMHANS dedicated to the nation

The President of India, Pranab Mukherjee dedicated the National Institute of Mental Health and Neuro Sciences (NIMHANS), Bangalore to the nation as an institute of national importance. He also inaguarated the Magneto Encephalography Research Centre and NIMHANS Heritage Museum on the occasion. NIMHANS has taken a number of initiatives such as setting up a Brain Bank, a Free Legal Aid Clinic in it’s outpatient bloc, Centre for Well Being, Centre for Public Health and Centre for Addiction Medicine etc. These innovations as well as the NIMHANS Community Mental Health and Rehabiliation Centre and Neuro-biology Research Centre (NRC) are successful models that could be replicated in other parts of the country.

Terror attack at Pathankot Air Force station

Five terrorists and three security men including one Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel were killed in an attack on an air force base in Punjab’s Pathankot district on 2 January 2016.

Narendra Modi Laid Foundation Stone Of HAL‘S Helicopter Facility

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 3 January 2016 unveiled a plaque for the foundation stone of a new helicopter manufacturing unit of Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) in Tumkur district in Karnataka.The government is investing over Rs 5,000 crore on this new unit. This will be the first factory in India to indigenously assemble helicopters through its own innovations and technology.

International short film festival begins in Warangal

International Short Film Festival is scheduled to begin in Hanmakonda, Warangal on 8 January 2016. This is the first such film festival after the formation of Telangana state. Short film makers from several countries besides regional directors will take part in the three-day event. All the short films will be aired at the Kakatiya University auditorium. Maker of blockbuster movie ‘Rudramadevi’ director Gunasekhar and writer Thota Prasad will be felicitated on the occasion.On the second day of the event on Saturday, IT minister KT Rama Rao will preside over the proceedings. The chairman of the film festival is K Nageshwara Rao.

ABBREVIATIONS

NIIF : National Investment and Infrastructure Fund

FDI : Foreign Direct Investment

SIDBI : Small Industries Development Bank of India

MICR : Magnetic Ink Character Recognition

PMGSY : Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana

FIPB : Foreign Investment Promotion Board

TADF : Technology Acquisition&Development Fund

Books in News

Book on Sharad Yadav released

The book ‘Sharad Yadav- Sangharsh Ke Senani, Sarvajanik, Rajkiya aur Vyaktigat Jeevan ka Safarnama’ written by Manoj Krish-nan was released by the Vice President Hamid Ansari at Mr Yadav’s official residence. Congress President Sonia Gandhi, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and senior BJP leader L K Advani, today attended the launch.

New book on Kargil War released

Gripping accounts from the battle front during the 1999 Kargil war between India and Pakistan to capture the magnificent Tiger Hill have been recounted in a new book which was launched at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi. Penned by Lieutenant General Mohinder Puri, the book titled ‘Kargil: Turning the Tide’ is a first-hand narrative of the operations of 8 Mountain Division, which was tasked to evict the enemy from the Drass-Mushkoh Sector during Operation Vijay.

Book entitled Jawaharlal Nehru and the Indian Polity in Perspective released

Book entitled Jawaharlal Nehru and the Indian Polity in Perspective was released by Hamid Ansari on 12th January 2016 at Kerala’s Thiruvananthapuram. Focus of the book is on Jawaharlal Nehru, India’s first PM on shaping on polity of modern India. The book was edited by Prof Alexander and with contributions from eminent persons like Justice K T Thomas, Dr Rajan Kurukkal, Dr B Vivekanandan, M G Radhakrishnan and others.

COMMITTEES

Lodha committee proposes sweeping reforms for BCCI

Former Chief Justice of India, R.M. Lodha, submitted his report on the various aspects of reforms in the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to the Supreme Court registry on 4 January 2016. The panel headed by justice (retd) RM Lodha was appointed by the apex court last year in the wake of a sport-fixing scandal in Indian Premier League (IPL), the biggest crisis to hit the cashrich sports body in the country. The three-member panel, which submitted a 159-page report on January 4 to the Supreme Court for ratification.

Arvind Panagariya committee formed on Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Corridor

On 11 January 2016, a five-member high level committee headed by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Arvind Panagariya was formed to monitor the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High Speed Corridor (bullet train project) by the Union Government. The responsibility of the committee is to look into the overall operations and technical issues, Make in India component and financial outlay of the 90000 crore rupees worth project. Apart from this, the committee will also audit the project’s strategic importance for India-Japan bilateral relation. Apart from the Chairman, the members of the committee are-Amitabh Kant, Secretary, Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion Shantikanta Das, Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs Secretary S Jaishankar, Foreign SecretaryAK Mittal, Railway Board Chairman.

Kamal Haasan, Ghosh on Shyam Benegal panel

Actor-director Kamal Haasan and film-maker Gautam Ghosh were on 14 January 2016 included in the Shyam Benegal committee set up by the Union government to look holistically into the functioning of the controversy-ridden Central Board of Film Certification, making it a six-member panel.The Union Information and Broadcasting Ministry had set up the panel on January 1 to take a relook at the functioning of the Board.

French President declared economic emergency

On 18 January 2016, French President Francois Hollande declared a state of economic and social emergency to redefine country’s economic and social model. President Francois Hollande has set out a € 2bn (£1.5bn) job creation plan in an attempt to lift France out of what he called a state of “economic emergency”.

IMPORTANT DAYS & DATES

January 9 : Pravasi Bharatiya Divas

January 10 : World Hindi Day

January 12 : National Youth Day

January 15 : National Army Day

January 18 : National Immunization Day

January 24 : National Girl Child Day

January 25 : National Tourism Day

January 26 : Republic Day

January 30 : Martyrs Day

Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission Final Result 2016 for the post of Block Health Statistician in the T.N. Medical Subordinate Service at http://www.tnpsc.gov.in/results.html

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 12:49:00 +0000

The Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission

The Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC) is a department of the government of Tamil Nadu which is responsible for governing the recruitment of personnel into the state's public service. It is the successor of the Madras Service Commission, which came into being under an Act of the Madras Legislature in 1929 and was the first Provincial Public Service Commission in India. It adopted its current name in 1970. It operates under Articles 315 to 323 of Part XIV of the Constitution of India.

In the year 1923, the Indian Government established a Public Service Commission to examine the salary structure of the Indian Civil Service and the possibility of transferring some of the duties to provincial services. The Commission was composed of five Englishmen and four Indians, with Viscount Lee of Fareham serving as its Chairman. The Commission also addressed the rate of Indianisation of the Indian Civil Service and the Indian Police. It determined a rate which in fifteen years would make the Indian Civil Service with a fifty per cent Indian membership and the same in twenty-five years for the Indian Police.

http://www.tnpsc.gov.in/results.html

It was left largely to the discretion of provincial governments to recruit and exercise control over their services, as deemed proper. As a result of the discretionary powers left to provincial Government, the Government of Madras and Punjab proposed to set up their own public service commissions.

Madras Presidency was the first province in India to establish their own service commission when the Madras Service Commission was established under an Act of the Madras Legislature in 1929. The Madras Service Commission started with three members, including the Chairman. After re-organisation of the states in 1957, several state level commissions were constituted. The Madras Service Commission became the Madras Public Service Commission with headquarters at Madras in the year 1957. During 1970, when the name of the State was changed to Tamil Nadu, the Madras Public Service Commission was renamed as the Tamil Nadu Public Service Commission (TNPSC).

BLOCK HEALTH STATISTICIAN IN THE T.N. MEDICAL SUBORDINATE SERVICE

The list of Register Numbers of candidates selected provisionally for appointment by direct recruitment to the post of Block Health Statistician in the Tamil Nadu Medical Subordinate Service, 2002 - 2006 for which the Oral Test were held on 19.08.2014 and 02.02.2016 is furnished below.

http://www.tnpsc.gov.in/results.html

December 2015 Year National Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 07:17:00 +0000

NATIONAL

NHAI approved pilot project on greenbelts

The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has approved a pilot project for developing greenbelts along the national highways (NHs). The project was submitted by National Environmental Engineering Research Institute (NEERI), Nagpur for undertaking scientific studies on designing greenbelts along national highways. The project will be implemented on a 5 Km stretch on NH-7 in Nagpur region at an estimated cost of Rs. 11.80 crore.

Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) injection

As part of Global Polio Endgame strategy, India has launched Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) in New Delhi. The vaccine was launched by the Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare J P Nadda. The launching of IPV would enable children to get double protection from polio i.e. orally and in the form of injection. IPV and OPV together will further strengthen the children’s immune system and will provide double protection against polio. IPV injection will be given to children below one year of age along with the third dose of the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) at the routine immunization sessions free of cost.

Indian Railways flags off first double decker

Indian Railways has flagged off the first inaugural service of the Goa to Mumbai double-decker air-conditioned Shatabdi train. The fully air conditioned double-decker train was the first of its kind in the country and was flagged off from Panaji by Union Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu. The train will run thrice a week between Margao Railway Station and the Lokmanya Tilak Terminus (LTT) in Mumbai. It has total eight compartments with a seating capacity of 120 in each compartment.

Commemorative coins on Dr B R Ambedkar

Prime Minister Narendra Modi has released 2 commemorative coins on Dr B R Ambedkar as part of the 125th birth anniversary year celebrations of B R Ambedkar. The coins are of 10 rupee and 125 rupee denomination and were issued on the 60th Mahaparinirvan Divas of Babasaheb Ambedkar.

Union Cabinet approved Amendments in the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950

Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 16 Decemeber 2015 gave its approval for introduction of a Bill in the Parliament for Amendments in the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950. The bill seeks to modify the list of Scheduled Castes in respect of Chhattisgarh, Haryana, Kerala, Odisha and West Bengal and in the Central List of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) of Chhattisgarh, Haryana and Kerala consequent upon inclusion of certain castes or parts thereof in the lists of Scheduled Castes. After the Bill becomes an Act, members of the communities included in the list of Scheduled Castes will be able to derive benefits meant for Scheduled Castes under the existing schemes like Post Matric Scholarship, National Overseas Scholarship, Rajiv Gandhi National Fellowship and others. They will also be entitled to the benefits of reservation in services and admission to educational institutions.

December 2015 Year International Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 07:16:00 +0000

INTERNATIONAL

Mahatma Gandhi International Centre in Sri Lanka

The President of Sri Lanka Maithripala Sirisena inaugurated the Mahatma Gandhi International Centre (MGIC) in Matale, Sri Lanka. The center was inaugurated as a tribute to the contribution of Mahatma Gandhi to humanity and the continuing relevance of his principles and philosophy to mankind. It was funded under the Indian government’s Development Cooperation Partnership with Sri Lanka.

German military aid to fight ISIS in Syria

The German Cabinet on 1 December 2015 approved a mandate offering military assistance to back the fight against the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) in Syria. The move is aimed at supporting France and the international alliance in its fight against the organisation. The mandate is for one year at a cost of 134 million euros (142 million dollars) and can be extended next year.

Paris pact on Water and Climate Change Adaptation

A broad coalition of nations, river basin organisations, business and civil societies from across the globe on 3 December, 2015 announced the Paris Pact on Water and Climate Change Adaptation. It aims to make water systems which are very foundation of sustainable human development more resilient to climate change impacts. It also seeks at promoting financial sustainability and new investment in water system management. The announcement was made as part of the ‘Water Resilience Focus’ event under the Lima to Paris Action Agenda (LPAA) on climate change.

President of Argentina – Mauricio Macri Blanco

On 10th December 2015, Mauricio Macri Blanco was sworn in as the President of Argentina by replacing Cristina Elisabet Fernandez de Kirchner. Macri is the leader of the centre-right Cambiemos (Let’s Change) coalition. Earlier to this appointment, since December 2007, he held the office of government of Buenos Aires, the capital city of Argentina.

Afghanisthan joins World Trade Organisation

Afghanisthan has joined the World Trade Organisation (WTO) calling it historic membership to boost the war-torn nations economy and build peace. The WTO has formally approved Afghanisthan’s membership at it’s 10th ministerial conference in the kenyan Capital Nairobi, Afghansthan has become the 164th WTO member and the 36th least developed country (LDC) to join the global trade body after 11 years of negotiations. Now Bhutan is the only SAARC member which has so far not joined the multilateral trade body.

December 2015 Current Affairs International, National, Sports, Awards, Committees, Science and Technology Study Material

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 07:12:00 +0000

INTERNATIONAL

Mahatma Gandhi International Centre in Sri Lanka

German military aid to fight ISIS in Syria

Paris pact on Water and Climate Change Adaptation

President of Argentina – Mauricio Macri Blanco

Afghanisthan joins World Trade Organisation

INDIA & WORLD

Railways inks pact for loco factories

The Railways has signed two contract agreements with US based GE and France based Alstom to set up locomotive factories in Bihar’s Marhowra and Madhepura districts respectively with a aim of boosting manufacturing and employment in the state. The contract valued at Rs. 40,000 crore, is spread over 10 years. The agreement was signed in the presence of Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu. The pact also marks the first big FDI in the railway sector.

MoU between India and Iran on visa facilitation

The Union Cabinet on 2 December 2015 approved the signing of the agreement between India and Iran on visa facilitation for Diplomatic, Official/Service and Ordinary passport holders. As per the agreement, on presentation of an official note by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stating the purpose of the visit, a non-extendable gratis entry visa will be issued within three working days, with a validity of up to fifteen days, to political authorities and officials travelling for specific bilateral purposes or to participate in a conference or seminar.

India and South Korea MoU on taxation treaty

India and South Korea have inked a new memorandum of understanding (MoU) on suspension of collection of taxes during pendency of mutual agreement procedure. This MoU will relieve the burden of double taxation for taxpayers in both the countries during the pendency of Mutual Agreement Procedure (MAP) proceedings. Besides, both countries also have agreed that transfer pricing dispute cases will be taken up for MAP under the revised Double Tax Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and Korea.

Union Cabinet approves MoU between India and UK in energy sector

The Union Cabinet approved for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on cooperation between India and United Kingdom in the energy sector. The MoU will provide a framework for technical assistance in the energy sector along with in-kind grant and other support through relevant projects initiated by UK. The programme under MoU would help to improve energy security and reliability of supply at both centre and state levels. It would also improve energy access and facilitate sustainable economic growth. The main focus will be on the electricity market structure and the integration of renewable energy into the grid. The MoU also includes the integration of renewable energy into the grid. It includes off-shore wind energy and solar energy and Tidal energy.

Construction work TAPI gas pipeline project begins

The construction work of 1800-kilometre-long Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) gas pipeline project has been started at the ancient city of Mary of Turkmenistan. The function was attended by Turkmenistan President Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedow, Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani, Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Indian Vice President Mohd Hamid Ansari. TAPI gas pipeline project is a proposed trans-country natural gas pipeline from Caspian Sea, Turkmenistan to India through Afghanistan and Pakistan.

NATIONAL

NHAI approved pilot project on greenbelts

Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) injection

Indian Railways flags off first double decker

Commemorative coins on Dr B R Ambedkar

Union Cabinet approved Amendments in the Constitution (Scheduled Castes) Order, 1950

STATES

Broad gauge rail line in Assam

Maharashtra is the biggest economy in India

First International festival on Birds in Uttar Pradesh

NGT bans registration of new diesel-run vehicles in Delhi

Delhi became first state to implement Road Safety recommendations

CONFERENCES

27th ASEAN leaders Summit 2015

27th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) leaders summit held in Kaula Lumpur, Malaysia. This summit was chaired by Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak. In this summit, the leaders of 10 nations grouping signed a declaration for launching ASEAN Economic Community (AEC) like European Union. The declaration was signed in front of United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki-moon.

China hosts 1st BRICS media summit

China hosted the first Brazil-Russia-India-China-South Africa (BRICS) media summit in Beijing for creating an alternative media platform for the 5 emerging economies. 25 media organisations participated in the 2 day summit which aimed to create a new institutional framework to benefit the media of five emerging economies of BRICS grouping. In the first summit, leaders of 25 Media organisations from the 5 BRICS countries pitched for building consensus to deal with climate change, terrorism,and other key global issues.

26th Conference of Southern Zonal Council held in Vijayawada

The 26th Conference of Southern Zonal Council (SZC) was held on 12 December 2015 at Vijayawada in Andhra Pradesh. The conference was chaired by the Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The conference was attended by Ministers of five states-Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala and Puducherry. The five states and Puducherry together form the Southern Zonal Council. The conference deliberated issues of common interest to the members of the council such as peninsular region industrial corridor, coastal security, introduction of peninsular tourism trains and finalisation of inter-State reciprocal transport agreement. Some other substantial issues of Centre State and Inter-State matters were also discussed in the conference.

Combined Commanders Conference on INS Vikramaditya

Combined Commanders Conference, an annual triservices event chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi was held on board INS Vikramaditya about 50 kms off Kochi coast. This is the first time when the conference was held outside New Delhi. It was attended by Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval, all three services chiefs and other senior officers of three armed services. The Conference is also known as the Unified Commanders’ Conference (UCC). During this conference India’s defence policy, doctrine and operational challenges are discussed in detail. Prime minister also reviewed exercise like firing of surface-to-surface missile by INS Nirghat during this conference. Prior to conference PM revived the tri-services guard of honour at Southern Naval Command.

14th Meeting of Heads of Governments of SCO Member

The 14th Meeting of the Heads of Governments (Prime Ministers) of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization Member States on Regional Economic Cooperation was held in Zhengzhou, China. Key discussions include : Exchanged views on a wide range of issues of international and regional economic growth. Discussed prospects and measures for improving economic and humanitarian cooperation for further strengthening of mutual understanding and traditional friendship between peoples of the SCO member states. Leaders issued a joint statement on regional economic cooperation which emphasized the importance of China’s One Belt, One Road initiative for developing infrastructure in the region.

AWARDS & HONOURS

E-India Award for Delhi Development Authority

The Delhi Development Authority (DDA) was on 1 December 2015 awarded with the E-India award for adopting technology to serve the public and using resources efficiently through mobile applications. The award was given under the category of Digital India IT Initiatives for extraordinary IT initiatives in the field of land protection and engineering projects.

Violinist L Subramaniam honoured with ITC Sangeet Samman

Renowned violinist Lakshminarayana Subramaniam was honoured with the Sangeet Samman at the ITC Sangeet Sammelan 2015 held on 4 December 2015 at the Victoria Memorial Hall, Kolkata. The artist is known for his virtuoso playing techniques and compositions in orchestral fusion. Subramaniam has been awarded with the Lifetime Achievement Award by Limca Book of Records in 2012. He also won the President’s Award for Best Violinist, All India Radio in 1963. In 2001, the renowned violinist was honoured with the Padma Bhushan.

Indian-American Frank Islam selected for 2015 Uttar Pradesh Ratna Award

Indian-American entrepreneur and philanthropist Frank Islam has been selected for the prestigious 2015 Uttar Pradesh Ratna Award. He has been chosen for this award in recognition of his achievements and outstanding contributions in a foreign country. He will be bestowed upon with award by UP Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav at the inaugural UP Pravasi Diwas on January 4, 2016 in Agra. In 1994, he had founded an Information Technology (IT) firm the QSS with him as the sole employee. Later the company employed more than 2,000 employees and its sales was US 300 million dollars before it was sold in 2007. Currently, he heads the FI Invest Group a firm that he established after selling his IT Company.

Wipro won 2015 Aegis Graham Bell Award

Global software giant Wipro on 11 December 2015 won the 2015 Aegis Graham Bell Award for developing a solution for the Internet of Things (IoT). Wipro’s IoT solution, Universal Data Parser (UDP), fetched the prestigious award. The Aegis School of Business established the Aegis Graham Bell Awards as a tribute to the father of the telephony, Sir Alexander Graham Bell. The award is intended to promote innovation, entrepreneurship in the field of Telecom, Internet, Media & Edutainment (TIME) and to provide recognition for outstanding contributions in this field in India.

Dilip Kumar conferred with Padma Vibhushan

Legendary actor Dilip Kumar has been conferred with the prestigious Padma Vibhushan, country’s second highest civilian award. It was bestowed upon him by Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis at his residence in Mumbai, Maharashtra. Union Government had selected veteran actor for the Padma Vibhushan on the eve of 66th Republic Day. He is famously known as Tragedy King. He also won the Padma Bhushan (1991), Dadasaheb Phalke Award (1994), Pakistan’s highest civilian award Nishan-e-Imtiaz (1998) and Guinness World Record for winning the maximum number of awards by an Indian actor.

Pranab received Garwood Award

President Pranab Mukherjee on 17th December received Garwood Award for Outstanding Global Leader in Open Innnovation from US Berkeley – Haas Business school of California at the Rashtrapati Bhavan in New Delhi. The award was presented to the president for taking initiative of hosting and gathering global innovators on the inclusive innovations at Rashtrapati Bhavan.

SPORTS & GAMES

15th World Snooker Title for Pankaj Advani

Ace Indian Cueist Pankaj Advani won the IBSF World Snooker Championship. He defeated China’s Xingtong by 8-6 score. This is the 15th World Title for Pankaj. He also became the first person in history to won both the Billiards and Snooker World Titles in the same year.

India won 2015 Men’s Junior Asia Hockey Cup

Indian men’s junior hockey team won the eight edition of Men’s Junior Asia Hockey Cup. In the finals held in Malaysia India defeated Pakistan with 6-2 goals. Harmanpreet Singh of Indian team scored highest four goals in the finals. South Korea won the bronze medal by defeating Japan in this tourney. Eight international teams participated in the 8th junior Asia Hockey cup.

Hockey World League Final winner Australia

Australia has won the 2014-15 Men’s Hockey World League Final by defeating Belgium. In the final match played at Sardar Vallabh Bhai Patel Stadium, Raipur Australian team defeated Belgium by 2-1 goals. India was placed at third place in this league after defeating Netherlands by 3-2 goals in the penalty shoot-out.

New IPL teams – Pune, Rajkot

Teams from Pune and Rajkot will compete in the Indian Premier League (IPL) replacing the suspended Chennai Superkings and Rajasthan Royals for a period of two years. The Pune franchise was bought by New Rising, Kolkata based Sanjeev Goenka Group while the Rajkot franchise was won by Intex Mobiles. A meeting of the IPL Governing Council finalised the IPL-9 dates between April 9 to May 29, 2016.

Elizabeth won gold in 59th National Shooting Championships

On 11th December 2015, the Women’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions Gold at the 59th National Shooting Championships was won by Kerala’s Elizabeth Susan Koshy. She won the first gold for Kerala in the 2015 National Games women’s 50m Rifle Prone event. She represented India in the 2013 and 2014 World Cups and won silver in the Asian Shooting Championships. Anjum Moudgil from Haryana bagged the silver medal while Gaayathri N of Tamil Nadu settled for the bronze.

ECONOMY

RBI keeps key rates unchanged

In it’s fifth bi-monthly monetary policy statement, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on 1 December, 2015 kept key rates-repo and CRR unchanged. RBI Governor Raghuram Rajan left the benchmark interest rate, the repo rate unchanged at 6.75 per cent and the CRR at 4 per cent. RBI set to achieve its target of getting inflation down at 6 per cent by January and is aiming to reduce the number further to 5 per cent by March 2017.

World Bank launches Transformative Carbon Asset Facility

The World Bank has launched a 500 million dollars Transformative Carbon Asset Facility (TCAF) to help developing countries pay for emission reductions and combat climate change. The scheme will reward countries for reducing emissions by paying a fee for each tonne of carbon dioxide (CO2) reduced. Of the total 500 million dollars, Germany, Norway, Sweden and Switzerland have jointly pledged an initial 250 million dollars investment.

United Nations Human Development Report 2015

The United Nations Human Development Report 2015 was released on 14 December 2015 with the title Work for Human Development in Ethiopia. As per the report, 2 billion people lifted out of low human development in last 25 years. In the 2015 report, India with a score of 0.609 has been ranked 130 out of 188 countries in terms of Human Development Index (HDI). In the 2014 report, India was ranked 135 out of 187 countries. With better health and education outcomes and reductions in extreme poverty, 2 billion people have moved out of low human development levels in the last 25 years. 830 million people are classified as working poor who live on under 2 US dollars a day. The report stresses the key roles that work can play in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG). It estimates that around 45 million additional health workers will be needed to meet SDG.

World bank approves loan for swach bharat abhiyan

The World Bank has approved a loan of 1.5 billion dollars to support the Central government’s flagship cleanliness drive Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM). The loan disbursed over a five year period will be used for the Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) Support Operation Project. Funds will also be used to develop the capacity of MDWS in programme management, advocacy, monitoring and evaluation. The World Bank will also provide a parallel 25 million dollars technical assistance to build the capacity of select state governments in implementing community led behavioural change programmes targeting social norms to help ensure wide spread usage of toilets by rural households.

NSE launches three new group indices

The National Stock Exchange (NSE) has launched three separate indices on three corporate houses of India viz. Tata, Aditya Birla and Mahindra Group. The first of its kind three separate indices based on corporate houses have been designed to reflect the performance of companies belonging to the respective corporate group. Each of three indices will comprise all the companies of the respective business group. Nifty Tata Group Index: It includes 25 companies across 12 sectors with a total market capitalisation of 7.51 lakh crore rupees. It represents 7.83 per cent of the total market capitalisation of companies listed on the NSE. Nifty Aditya Birla Group Index: It consists of eight companies across seven sectors with the market capitalisation of 2.08 lakh crore rupees. It represents 2.17 per cent of the total market capitalisation of companies listed on the NSE. Nifty Mahindra Group Index: It consists of seven companies with a market capitalisation of about 1.64 lakh crore rupees. It represents 1.71 percent of the total market capitalisation of companies listed on NSE.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

Supersonic interceptor AAD missile test fired successfully

India has successfully test fired it’s indigenously developed supersonic interceptor missile which is capable of destroying any incoming ballistic missile, from a test range off Odisha Coast. The interceptor named as Advanced Air Defence (AAD) missile, is a 7.5 metre long single stage solid rocket propelled guided missile equipped with a navigation system, a hi-tech computer and an electro-mechanical activator.

Interceptor boat ICGS C-422 Commissioned

Interceptor boat ‘ICGS C-422’ was commissioned into Indian Coast Guard to further enhance its vigil along Pondicherry and South Tamil Nadu coast in the Bay of Bengal. ICGS C-422 is the 36th interceptor boat to be inducted into the Coast Guard service. The boat is capable of multiple tasks including interdiction, surveillance and search and rescue.

First IVF puppies in US

Scientists in the US have created the world’s first litter of puppies concived in a test tube, a breakthrough that may help eradicate disease in dogs and humans. The advance through in vitro fertilisation (IVF) opens the door for conserving endangered canid species, using gene editing technologies to eradicate heritable diseases in dogs and for study of genetic diseases.

World’s first dengue vaccine – Dengvaxia

The Mexican authorities on 9 December 2015 approved the use of the first-ever vaccine against dengue fever, “ Dengvaxia” which will be publicly available for the first time. The Federal Commission for the Protection against Sanitary Risks (COFEPRIS) approved Dengvaxia for the prevention of disease caused by all four dengue virus serotypes in preadolescents, adolescents and adults, 9 to 45 years of age living in endemic areas. According to a World Health Organization (WHO) report published in late 2014, the vaccine had an average rate of effectiveness of about 60.8 percent in protecting against the four strains of dengue now circulating.

ISRO successfully launched PSLV-C29

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has successfully placed six commercial satellites from Singapore in their dedicated orbits. These satellites were launched using Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C29) from the first launch pad of Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This successful launch coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between India and Singapore in year 2015. The major payload was TeLEOS-One remote sensing satellite weighing 400 kg. It would be used for urban planning and disaster monitoring of Singapore. The other five satellites included two micro satellites and one nano satellite. These satellites are VELOX-CI (123 kg), VELOX-II (13 kg) 6U-Cubesat technology demonstrator, Athenoxat-1, Kent Ridge-1 (78 kg) and Galassia (3.4 kg) 2U-Cubesat.

PERSONS IN NEWS

A) APPOINTMENTS

Dr Henk Bekedam -WHO representative to India

Senior World Health Organisation (WHO) public health specialist Dr. Henk Bekedam has taken charge as the new WHO representative to India. He has worked for 19 years with WHO as its representative in China and Egypt, Director of Health Sector Development in the WHO Western Pacific Region office in Manila.

Sir Venkatraman Ramakrishnan assumed Presidency of the Royal Society

Sir Venkatraman Ramakrishnan on 1 December 2015 assumed Presidency of the Royal Society in London. He was elected to the office in March 2015 by the society’s council and will serve for up to five years. With this appointment, he became the 61st president of the society.

Prakash Kumar Singh is new SAIL chairman

Prakash Kumar Singh has been appointed as the new chairman of the Steel Authority of India (SAIL). P K Singh was chosen to become the chairman of the country’s largest steelmaker in the public sector by govern-ment head-hunter Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB). The post of permanent chairman in the company has been lying vacant since incumbent CS Verma was refused an extension by the government in June.

Ahmad Javed as Indian Ambassador to saudi Arabia

Mumbai Police commissioner Ahmad Javed has been appointed Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, which has a 2.8 million-strong Indian community. He is expected to take up his assignment shortly as Javed is scheduled to retire on January 31, 2016. Ahmad Javed is the IPS officer of 1980 batch from Maharashtra Cadre. He had recently replaced Rakesh Maria as the Mumbai Police commissioner.

B) RESIGNS

Karnataka Lokayukta resigns

Facing the prospect of his removal, controversial Karnataka Lokayukta Justice Y. Bhaskar Rao has resigned over an alleged extortion racket in the antigraft ombudsman’s office involving his son. Rao is on a long leave since July last after his son was arrested by the Special Investigation Team (SIT) in connection with the case.

Prakash Kumar Singh is new SAIL chairman

Latvia’s Prime Minister resigned

Latvia’s first female Prime Minister Laimdota Straujuma announced her resignation on 7 December 2015. Straujuma’s resignation came after she fired the transport minister in November 2015, sparking rumours of discontent within the centre-right Cabinet that took office in January 2014. Until a new government is chosen by the Latvia parliament, Straujuma will head the three-party coalition that includes centre-right Unity party, the Greens and Farmers party and the far-right National Alliance in a caretaker capacity.

C) DEATHS

Japanese tamil scholar Noboru Karashima passed away

Distinguished Japanese historian of South India and South Asia Noboru Karashima (82) passed away. He is credited with playing a critical role in developing Indo-Japan cultural ties. He was a tamil scholar and was president of International Association of Tamil Research (IATR) from 1989 to 2010. He was president of Japan Association for South Asian Studies from 1996 to 2000.

Chettinad Group founder MAM Ramaswamy passed away

Veteran industrialist, former parliamentarian and the founder of Chettinad Group, MAM Ramaswamy died on 2 December, 2015 in Chennai. The Chettinad Group has diverse interests in cement, granite, engineering among others. He was the first to enter the Guinness Book of World Records for having won 100 Classics in Horse racing. He was the Member of Parliament representing Karnataka in the Rajya Sabha.

Farmer’s leader and Agro-economist Sharad Joshi passed away

Renowned economist, agriculturist, prolific journalist, and noted farmers’ leader Sharad Joshi (80) passed away on 12 December 2015 in Pune, Maharashtra. Joshi was the founder of Shetakari Sanghtana (farmers’ Organisation) an NGO dedicated to the cause of farmers in Maharashtra. Shetkari Sanghatana, in its heyday, was known for the innovative methods of agitation to draw attention to the problems of the farmers. He also founded an organisation of rural women, Shetkari Mahila Aghadi (SMA), which was known for its work for women’s property rights.

D) VISITORS

Sushma Swaraj visit to Pakistan

External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj visited Pakistan on 8-9 December, 2015. She went to Islamabad to attend the ‘Heart of Asia’ 5th Ministerial Meeting on Afghanisthan held in Islamabad on 9 December. During her visit to Pakistan, she met with Pakisthan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and External Affairs Minister Sartz Aziz and held bilateral talks to improve the bilateral ties between the two nations.

Japan PM Visited India

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe visited India on 11-13 December, 2015 for a three day official visit. He met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and held annual summit talks with him on the ocassion of his visit both the nations agreed to major deals including the introduction of Japan’s bullet train technology in India and an agreement on nuclear partnership clearly sets the stage for elevated bilateral ties in the future. The proposed bullet train link between Mumbai and Ahmedabad, which will have access to a soft Japanese loan of 12 – 15 billion dollars at a concessional interest rate of 0.1 percent. Abe along with Narendra Modi visited varanasi and attended the Ganga aarti on the banks of river Ganga. India and Japan signed a number of agreements including one on civil nuclear energy co operation, India’s first bullet train and the transfer of defence equipment and technology.

E) MISCELLANEOUS

French President to be chief guest at 2016 Republic Day Celebrations

French President Francois Hollande will be the chief guest at the 2016 Republic Day Celebrations. He would be the 5th highest dignitary from France to be chief guest of Indian Republic Day parade. In 2015 US President Barack Obama attended the Republic Day parade.

Swati Dandekar as US Director of ADB

Indian -origin Swati Dandekar has been appointed as the United States Director of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). She was nominated to ADB by US President Barack Obama and was designated with rank of an ambassador. Swati was the first Indian born American citizen to win a state legislative seat in the United States.

Azim Premji ranked fourth in World’s 20 Most Generous People list

Wipro’s Chairman Azim Premji was the only Indian and stood at the fourth position in the Wealth-X’s World’s 20 most generous people list with 8 billion dollars. Wealth-X released the World’s 20 Most Generous People list. Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates was adjudged as the top philanthropist in the world with 27 billion dollars, Warren Buffett, CEO of Berkshire Hathaway is at second position with 21.5 billion dollars followed by George Soros, Founder of Soros Fund Management with 8 billion dollars.

Amitabh as most followed in Twitter

Twitter released the list of most followed ones in Twitter. With 18.1 million followers, bollywood star Amitabh Bachchan remains as the most followed one. With 16.5 million followers on Twitter Sha Rukh Khan is in second place and with 16.4 million followers Prime Minister Narendra Modi takes the third position. Modi is the only non-bollywood personality who has in the top 10 list. Modi’s ‘Selfie with Daughter’ campaign on Twitter was one of the most popular hashtags on the site. Amir Khan and Salman are at 4th and 5th places respectively. At number six in the list actress Deepika Padukone followed by Priyanka Chopra and Hritik Roshan.

Nishi Vasudeva named CEO of the Year

Hindustan Petroleum Corp Ltd (HPCL) Chairman and MD Nishi Vasudeva has been chosen CEO of the Year at the 17th annual Platts Global Energy Awards, often called the Oscars of energy. While Reliance Industries has bagged the CSR Award. The CEO of the Year, Nishi was also honoured by Platts as its 2015 Top 250 Asia CEO of the Year.

PLACES IN NEWS

World’s largest cloning factory in China

China is building world’s biggest animal cloning factory to recreate sniffer dogs, pets and beef cattle. The factory would be built Tianjin Economic and Technological Development Area (TEDA). The cloning factory will include cloning laboratories, a gene bank and a science education centre and will be constructed at the cost of 31 million US dollars. The factory would produce 100,000 cattle embroys annually and later expand the annual out put to one million.

Central Research Institute in Yoga and Naturopathy

Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy (CCRYN), an autonomous organization under the Ministry of AYUSH is going to establish a Central Research Institute in Yoga and Naturopathy in Binjhagiri village of Odisha. Morarji Desai Natural Institute of Yoga, New Delhi is an autonomous organization under Central Government which is engaged in activities primarily related to education in Yoga.

Varanasi and Jaipur designated as members of UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network

Two Indian cities for first time have been designated as members of UNESCO’s Creative Cities Network (UCCN). Two cities are Varanasi City (Uttar Pradesh) has been added in the City of Music category of network and Jaipur City (Rajasthan) has been added in the City of Crafts and Folk Art category of network. They are among the 47 cities from 33 countries that have been designated as new members of UNESCO Creative Cities Network. UNESCO Creative Cities Network covers seven creative fields including Crafts and Folk Arts, Film, Media Arts, Gastronomy, Design, Literature and Music.

Myanmar launches first Unesco biosphere reserve

Myanmar has launched the country’s first Unesco Biosphere Reserve – Inle Lake in Shan state, opening a new chapter in its commitment to bio-diversity and eco-system conservation. The 489,721 hectares’ Inle Lake was designated as Myanmar’s first biosphere reserve under Unesco’s Man and the Bioshpere programme in Paris in June this year. It was one of 20 places added at at the Unesco’s 27th Man and the Biosphere (MAB) International Coordinating Council (ICC) meeting.

ABBREVIATIONS

CCRYN : Central Council for Research in Yoga and Naturopathy

ADB : Asian Development Bank

ICHR : Indian Council of Historical Research

TOPS : Target Olympic Podium Scheme

Assocham : The Associated Chamber of Commerce and Industry of India

TCAF : Transformative Carbon Asset Facility

NPCI : National Payments Corporation of India

INBA : Indian National Bar Association

ABLF : Asian Business Leadership Forum

AEC : ASEAN Economic Community

Books in News

Priya Parmor’s novel among 100 notable books of 2015

Indian-origin author Priya Parmor’s historical novel “Vanessa and Her Sister”, has been included in the NewYork Times’ 100 Notable Books of 2015. Parmor’s fabricated journal is an uncannu success. In ‘Venessa and Her Sister’, Parmor gives truth and definition to the character of a woman whose nature was as elusive as her influence was profound.

Sharad Pawar’s autobiography On My Terms released

On My Terms: From the Grassroots to the Corridors of Power, an autobiography of Sharad Pawar was released by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 10 December 2015. The book was released on the 75th birthday of Pawar, the Maratha strongman and the leader of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP). In this book, Pawar has detailed his experiences of political and social issues spanning 50 years.

Two books on president released

The Prime Minister, Narendra Modi on 12 December released two books` “Speeches of the President – Vol. III” and “Presidential Retreats” in Rashtrapati Bhawan, on the ocassion of 80th Birthday of President Pranab Mukherjee.

“The Bose Brothers and Indian Independence – An Insider’s Account” book released

Book titled “The Bose Brothers and Indian Independence – An Insider’s Account” was relased in month of November. Author of this book is Madhuri bose who is grand niece of Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose. This book is based on role of the Bose Brothers in the Indian freedom struggle ie. Sarat and Subash Chandra Bose. It reveals their interactions with contemporary leaders like Chittaranjan Das, Jinnah, Motilal and Jawaharlal Nehru, Vallabhbhai Patel and Mahatma Gandhi.

COMMITTEES

N. Gopalaswami committee on Sanskrit promotion

A 13 member expert committee headed by former Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) N. Gopalaswami has been constituted by the Union Human Resource Development (HRD) ministry exclusively on Sanskrit promotion. The committee recommends measures to integrate the study of the ancient classical language with other disciplines and also suggests changes in Sanskrit education in schools and Universities.

Arvind Subramanian Committee suggests GST rate of 17-18 per cent

Chief Economic Advisor Dr Arvind Subramanian led Committee has recommended standard rate for Goods and Services Tax (GST) at 17 to 18 per cent. The Committee has submitted its report to Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in New Delhi. Important points of the report: 1. The committee recommended standard Goods and Services Tax (GST) rates at 17-18 %. 2. The panel suggested a revenue neutral rate of 15-15.5 % and dropping of 1% additional tax on inter-state trade. The panel was set up by the government to suggest a road map of rates for GST but the final decession on the precise number would be taken by the proposed GST council.

L Narasimha Reddy Judicial Committee on OROP

The Union Government on 14 December 2015 appointed Justice L Narasimha Reddy, retired Chief Justice of Patna High Court, to head the Judicial Committee which will look into the implementation of One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme for the exservicemen. The Committee will submit its recommendations in six months. It may give interim reports to the Government on any of the matters related to its terms of reference. The committee will look on measures for the removal of anomalies that may arise in the implementation of the OROP as notified by the Government, any other matter referred by the Union Government on implementation of the OROP or related issues. In making its recommendations, the Committee shall take into account the financial impact of its recommendations.

AP Shah Judicial Commission on RIL-ONGC gas dispute

The government has set up a judicial commission headed by former chief Justice of Delhi High Court Ajit Prakash Shah to look into the findings of the international consultant Degolyer & Mac Naughton in the gas dispute between Reliance Industries (RIL) and state owned oil and National Gas Corporation (ONGC).

IMPORTANT DAYS & DATES

December 1 – World AIDS Day

December 2 – World Pollution Prevention Day

December 3 – World Disabled Day

December 4 – Indian Navy Day

December 9 – International Anti-Corruption Day

December 10 – World Human Rights Day

December 11 – UNICEF Day

November 2015 Year National Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 06:36:00 +0000

NATIONAL

Indian Police Foundation in Delhi

The Union Home Minister Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurated the Indian Police Foundation and the Indian Police Institute on the occasion of Police Commemoration Day celebration at New Delhi.The Indian Police Foundation (IPF) and the Indian Police Institute (IPI) aim at embarking a culture of research and evidence based policing in India and to avoid subjecti-vity, personal biases and errors in decision-making.

Narendra Modi laid foundation stone for Amaravati

Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for the construction of new capital of Andhra Pradesh, ‘Amaravati’. The master plan of the city was prepared with the help of Singapore government. A host of dignitaries including Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandra Sekhar Rao, five Union Ministers, ministers from Singapore and Japan, industrialists and famous personalities were present at the ceremony.

Women fighter pilots in Indian Air Force

Union Government has approved induction of women into the Fighter branch of Indian Air Force (IAF). The first women fighter pilots would be selected from the batch which is presently undergoing flying training at Air Force Academy in Hyderabad. These women pilots will be commissioned into the fighter stream in June 2016 after completion of initial training. Later, they would undergo advanced training for 1 year and would enter a fighter cockpit by June 2017. Presently, there are around 1,500 women in the IAF including 94 pilots and 14 navigators.

Three gold schemes launched

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 5 November 2015 launched three gold related schemes. The schemes are – Gold Monetization Scheme, Sovereign Gold Bond Scheme and Indian Gold Coins. The three schemes were announced by the Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his 2015-16 budget. The primary purpose of the schemes is to reduce dependence on imported gold, recycle the unutilized gold in the country&most impor-tantly, streamline the gold business in the country. At present, India is the largest consumer of gold in the world.

First AMRIT out let in New Delhi

Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare on 15 November 2015 launched the Affordable Medicines and Reliable Implants for Treatment (AMRIT) pharmacy outlet at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in New Delhi. The purpose of the outlet is to reduce the expenditure incurred by patients on treatment of cancer and heart diseases by 50 to 60 percent. It is a retail pharmacy outlet that sells drugs and implants for the two ailments-cancer and heart diseases-at highly discounted rates. It has been tie-up with government owned HLL Lifecare Ltd (HLL).

November 2015 Year International Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 06:35:00 +0000

INTERNATIONAL

Britain nuclear deal with China

Britain has signed a land mark nuclear deal with China to build the UK’s first nuclear power plant. Under this deal, nuclear power plant will be built at Hinkley point, near London with total investment of 18 billion pound. The Nuclear Power Corporation of China will contribute 6 billion pounds to built the power plant. The plant will be become operational by 2025.

Law and Justice party won the Poland elections

Conservative Right-wing Law and Justice Party won the 2015 Parliamentary elections of Poland. This party won absolute majority by winning 235 of total 460 seats and securing 39.1 per cent of the votes. With this, the deputy leader of the party Beata Szydlo is set to become the next Prime Minister of Poland.

Nepal’s first woman President Bidhya Bhanadari

Nepal for the first time elected woman candidate as it’s President. Bidhya Bhandari of Communist Party of Nepal has been elected as the new President of Nepal. She began her political career in 1979. Bhandari was the minister for Defence in the Madhav Kumar Nepal-led government from May 2009 to February 2011.

Bangladesh signs satellite deal with French firm

Bangladesh has signed a 250 million US Dollar deal with French-Italian firm Thales Alenia Space in Dhaka to build the country’s first communications satellite. Thales Alenia Space will build the satellite called Bangabandhu-1 for the Bangladesh Telecommunications Regulatory Commission (BTRC) to be launched into space in 2017.With the launch of Bangabandhu-1, Bangladesh will become the 57th member of the exclusive club of satellite-owning countries.

Egypt, Russia signed on nuclear power plant

Egypt and Russia on 19 November 2015 signed an agreement to build a nuclear power plant in Egypt. As per the agreement, Russia will extend a loan to Egypt to cover the cost of construction. The plant is expected to be completed by 2022. The plant will be the first in Egypt and will be built at Dabaa in the North of the country. The project would involve the building of a third generation plant with four reactors.

November 2015 Current Affairs International, National, Sports, Awards, Committees, Science and Technology Study Material

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 06:33:00 +0000

INTERNATIONAL

Britain nuclear deal with China

Law and Justice party won the Poland elections

Nepal’s first woman President Bidhya Bhanadari

Bangladesh signs satellite deal with French firm

Egypt, Russia signed on nuclear power plant

INDIA & WORLD

India-Sri Lanka bilateral Naval Excercise ‘SLINEX15’

The fourth edition of India-Sri Lanka bilateral Naval Excercise ‘SLINEX15’ begins in Sri Lanka’s Trincomalee coast. The excercise enhance the capability of the two nations to work together and contribute towards maritime security in the region. SLINEX 15 will include naval ships, fast attack crafts, gun boats of both India & Sri Lanka.

India re-elected to UNCITRAL

India on 9 November 2015 was re-elected by the General Assembly to a six year term on the United Nations Commission on International Trade Law (UNCITRAL). The Assembly elected 23 members to UNCITRAL for six-year terms including Australia, Brazil, Chile, Israel, Iran, Italy, Pakistan, Philippines, Spain, Turkey, the US&Venezuela. UNCITRAL is recognised as the core legal body of the United Nations system in the field of international trade law for over 40 years.

India & UK signed a Civil Nuclear Pact

India and UK on 12 November, 2015 signed a civil nuclear pact and decided to collaborate in the field of defence and cyber security besides launching a railway rupee bond in UK. They also announced deals worth 9 billion pounds (Rs.90,000 Crores) during the visit of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to UK for three days.

India-Australia sealed Nuclear deal procedures

India and Australia have sealed Nuclear deal procedures for supply of Uranium from Australia to energy starved India. India has became the first country to buy Uranium from Australia without being a signatory to the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Australia has about a 40 per cent of world’s recoverable Uranium resources&annually exports around 7,000 tonnes of it.

India Vietnam deal on Animal Health

The Union Cabinet on 19 November has given its approval for signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Vietnam for cooperation in the field of Animal Health. The MoU was signed in September, 2014. The MoU aims to promote mutual cooperation between India and Vietnam through joint activities in the areas of Animal Health.The two nations set up Mutual Recog- nition Agreement on Veterinary hygiene, health certificate between competent authorities of the two Parties. The MoU shall remain in force for a period of 10 years.

NATIONAL

Indian Police Foundation in Delhi

Narendra Modi laid foundation stone for Amaravati

Women fighter pilots in Indian Air Force

Three gold schemes launched

First AMRIT out let in New Delhi

STATES

2016 South Asian Rugby Championship in Jammu and Kashmir

India’s first Paragliding World Cup

Maharashtra approved APJ Abdul Kalam Amrut Yojna

Indian Railways signed MoU with Odisha

Northeast India’s first elephant hospital at Kaziranga National Park

CONFERENCES

International Food Data Conference in Hyderabad

The 11th International Food Data Conference has been held at National Institute of Nutrition in Hyderabad on 3 November, 2015. The conference has been attended by 350 delegates from 51 countries. It was the first time to conduct this conference in India. The conference has been jointly organised by the International Network of Food Databases (Infoods), Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) and National Institute of Nutrition (NIN). The NIN will come out with revised ‘nutritive values of Indian foods’ in December.

12th ASEM Foreign Ministers’ meet in Luxemburg

12th Asia-Europe Foreign Ministers’ Meeting (ASEM FMM12) took place in Luxemburg on 5-6 November 2015. The ASEM FMM 12 was held under the theme Working Together for a Sustainable and Secure Future. 51 Foreign Ministers from 30 European and 21 Asian countries as well as the Secretary Gene-ral of ASEAN participated in the two day meeting.

21st INCOFYRA in Bengaluru in 2016

The 21st International Conference on Frontiers in Yoga Research and its Applications (INCOFYRA) will be held from 3 to 7 January 2016 at Prashanti Kutiram, Bengaluru. The summit will be organized by the Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Sansthana. The theme of the conference is Yoga in Integrated Healthcare Systems. The Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi will inaugurate the conference. The conference targets to promulgate the research findings in the field of integrative medicine.

23rd APEC Economic Leaders Summit

23rd Asia-Pacific Econo-mic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Lea-ders Summit was held at Manila, Philip-pines on 18-19 Novem-ber 2015. The summit was chaired by Philippines President Benigno S. Aquino III. The theme of the Summit was Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World. The leaders from 21 member-countries issued the 2015 Leaders Declaration titled Building Inclusive Economies, Building a Better World: A Vision for an Asia-Pacific Community. The next 24th summit will be held in 2016 at Peru.

AWARDS & HONOURS

Indian movie won People’s Choice Award

Indian movie ‘Angry Indian Goddesses’ was awarded with People’s Choice Award at Rome Film Festival held in Rome, Italy. The winner was selected through on line voting system, by the audience. The movie also received an eight minute-long standing oration at the festival.

AR Rahman conferred with 2015 Hridaynath Mangeshkar Award

Oscar-winning composer AR Rahman has been confferred with prestigious 2015 Hridaynath Mangeshkar Award in Mumbai. He was presented with fifth edition of award by Veteran filmmaker Subhash Ghai for his contribution to the Indian music on the occasion of 78th birthday of Pandit Hridaynath Mangeshkar.

Indian Scientist team won the NASA Award

The NASA award for an innovative technology named Burst Prevention & Puncture Curative (BPPC) technology was won by a team of Indian scientist led by Sameer Panda from Odisha 2015. Smitiparna Satpathy, KN Panda and Udit Bondia are the other members of the team. They won the award in the contest jointly organized by NASA and Society of Automobile Engineers, International named Create the Future Design Contest- 2015. They won the award for Mild Run Flat Tyre based on BPPC technology.

London doctorate to Ashok Amritraj

Tennis champion-turned Hollywood filmmaker Ashok Amritraj on 19 November 2015 was awarded with an honorary doctorate of Arts by the University of East London. Amritraj was honoured for promoting talented moviemakers from across the world, including India. Amritraj started his career as a tennis player who represented India on an international level. He competed in doubles at Wimbledon and the US Open.

SPORTS & GAMES

Hoogeveen Chess Title for Abhijeet

Indian Grandmaster Abhijeet Gupta won the Hoogeveen International Open Chess Tournament after defeating Neelotpal Das in the ninth and final round, in Hoogeveen, The Netherlands. Gupta scored seven points out of nine and stood as first in the tournament. Deep Sengupta of India finished second with 6.5 points.

2015 Swiss Indoors men’s singles title winner

Roger Federer Roger Federer of Switzerland on 1 November, 2015 won the Swiss Indoors men’s singles title. He defeated Rafel Nadel of Spain in the final match held at St. Jakobshalle in Basel, Switzerland. It was the seventh Swiss Indoors title and 88th of his career. In this year it was his sixth title.

Indian Railways Won Hockey Tournament

Indian Railways has won 32nd edition of Indian Oil Surjit Hockey tournament for the first time. In the final match played at Olympian Surjit Hockey Stadium in Jalandhar (Punjab), Indian Railways team defeated defending champions Indian Oil Mumbai by 4-3 score. The winning team bagged 5 lakh rupees cash award and Winners Trophy. While, the runners up got 2.50 lakh rupees cash and Runners Up Trophy. Malak Singh of Indian Railways was adjudged as Player of the Tournament and was given a cash prize of 25,000 rupees.

Wasim Jaffer is the first cricketer to score 10000 runs in Ranji

Wasim Haffer who is opener of Vidarbha has became first ever cricketer in Ranji Trophy history to score 10000 runs. He reached at this milestone while playing a match against Bengal at the Jadavpur University second campus ground in Saltlake.

2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup winner Nigeria

Nigeria on 8 November 2015 won the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Cup. In the finals Nigeria defeated Mali with 2-0 score. India will host the bi-annual championship in 2017. It is the third championship for Nigeria.

ECONOMY

RBI allows NRIs for National Pension System

Reserve Bank of India allowed non-resident Indians (NRIs) to subscribe to the National Pension System (NPS). NRIs may subscribe to the NPS governed and administered by the Pension Fund Regulating and Development Authority (PFRDA), and the person is eligible to invest as per the provisions of the PFRDA Act. The subscription amount shall be paid by the NRIs either by inward remittance through normal banking channels or out of funds held in their NRE/FCNR/NRO account.

India seventh most valued ‘Nation Brand’ in the world

India has moved up one position to become the world’s seventh most valued ‘Nation Brand’ with an increase of 32% in it’s brand value to 2.1 billion dollars. The US remains on top with a valuation of 19.7 billion dollars followed by China and Germany as per the annual report on the world’s most valuable nation brands compiled by Brand Finance.

India signs with Asian Development Bank

Union government signed an agreement of 273 million dollars loan from the Asian Development Bank (ADB) to improve rural roads in Assam, Chandigarh, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha&West Bengal. This is the last tranche of the 800 million dollars financing facility under the Rural Connectivity Invest-ment Programme. The loan will help in constructuring over 6,000 kilometers of rural roads in five states.

Narendra Modi launches Neev Fund in UK

India’s first Low Income State Infrastructure Equity Partnership (the Neev Fund) was launched on 13 November, 2015 by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in UK. The fund has co-investment from the UK Department of International Development and the State Bank of India. The fund aims to provide equity partnerships for small infrastructure development in sectors like water & sanitation, clean energy and urban infrastructure.

RBI allows RRBs to launch internet banking

Reserve Bank of India has allowed strong regional rural banks (RRBs) to launch online transaction through internet banking. Profitable RRBs with minimum Rs.100 crore net worth and better asset quality will be allowed to offer this service. Banks with capital adequacy ratio over 10% will be allowed to introduce the online transaction services. Weak banks will be allowed to offer internet services without online transaction facilities.

SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

World’s fastest cruise missile ‘BrahMos’ successfully test fired

The supersonic cruise missile BrahMos with a strike range of over 290 Km, was on 1 November test fired successfully from the Navy’s newest stealth destroyer, INS Kochi and hit it’s target ‘Allepy’, a decommissioned ship in the Arabian Sea. After two trials from INS Kolkata, test firing from INS Kochi has validated the newly commissioned ship’s system.

Agni-IV missile successfully test-fired

Indian Army’s Strategic Forces Command (SFC) on 9 November 2015 successfully test-fired surface-tosurface Agni-IV missile. The 4000-km range nuclear capable missile was test-fired from Abdul Kalam (Wheeler) Island off the Odisha coast. It is 20 meters in length weighs 17 tonnes and carries a pay load of one tone. It was developed by Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is the fourth missile in the series of Agni missiles.

India’s Coast Guard offshore patrol vessel – ‘Samarth’ commissioned

India’s coast Guard Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) ‘Samarth’ was commissioned by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar on 10 November, 2015 at Vasco in Goa. It is the Coast guard’s largest OPV. The 105 m OPV is fitted with most advance technology, navigation and communication equipment, sensors and machinery. It has a maximum speed of 23 knots. It will be used in Exclusive Economic Zone.

GSAT-15 successfully launched

GSAT-15, India’s latest com-munications satellite, was laun-ched successfully by the European Ariane 5 VA-227 launch Vehicle on November 11, 2015. The 3164 kg GSAT-15 carries communication transponders in Ku-band and a GPS Aided GEO Augmented Navigation (GAGAN) payload operating in L1 & L5 bands.

Defence satellite EKS Kosmos-2510

Russia’s newest defence satellite named as EKS Kosmos-2510 was successfully launched into space and has been placed into its dedicated orbit. It was launched using Russian Soyuz-2.1b carrier rocket from the Plesetsk Cosmodrome. EKS Kosmos-2510 is early warning satellite and has been deployed as the first satellite in a new fleet of 10 EKS military satellites to be launched by 2018 to form new defence system to detect enemy missile heading towards Russian territory.

PERSONS IN NEWS

A) APPOINTMENTS

Alok Rawat appointed National Council for Women

Former water resources secretary Alok Rawat has been appointed as the fourth member of the National Commission for Women (NCW). He became the first man to be part of the five member body. Two other members Sushma Sahu and Rekha Sharma were appointed to the commission in the month of August.

P K Gupta as next MD of SBI

P K Gupta will be elevated as Managing Director of country’s largest bank State Bank of India in place of P Pradeep Kumar, who is superannuating this month-end. Gupta, who is of Deputy Managing Director (DMD) rank, is presently Managing Director of the bank’s investment banking arm SBI Caps. He will be in this post for four years.

Shaktikanta Das nominated to RBI central Board

Economic Affairs secretary Shaktikanta Das has been nominated to the Central Board of Directors of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). He has nominated by the Union Government in place of Ajay Tyagi. 10 Directors are nominated by Union Government in order to represent important elements from India’s economy.

Syed Akbaruddin appointed as next Permanent Representative of India to UN

On 16th November 2015, Syed Akbaruddin was appointed as the next Permanent Representative of India to the United Nations. He succeeded Asoke Kumar Mukerji. He is a 1985 batch officer of Indian Foreign Service. At present, he is serving as Additional Secretary in the Ministry of External Affairs.

B) RESIGNS

Romania’s Prime Minister resigned

Romania’s Prime Minister Victor Ponta on 4 November 2015 resigned from his position following a deadly nightclub blaze which left 32 dead and nearly 200 injured. His resignation came after more than 20000 people rallied in Bucharest to demand he step down. Ponta had been Romania’s Prime Minister since 2012.

C) DEATHS

IOC member Ashwini Kumar died

Honararay member of International Olympic Committee (IOC) Ashwini Kumar (94) passed away on 20th October, 2015. He was the President of the Indian Basket Ball Federation and President of the Punjab Olympic Association for 12 years.

Brijmohan Lal Munjal died

Hero MotoCorp founder and doyer of the Indian two wheeler industry, Brijmohan Lal Munjal (92) died on 1 November, 2015 in New Delhi. He became the Chairman-emeritus of the group earlier this year and remained on the board of the company as non-executive member. Hero MotoCorp is the world’s largest two wheeler company. He was conferred with the ‘Padma Bhushan’in 2005.

Children’s Book Writer Kamala Laxman away

Well noted children’s book writer Kamala Laxman (90) died on 14 November 2015 in Pune. She was widow of legendary cartoonist R.K. Laxman. She wrote many famous children books which include : The Thama Stories, Raman of Tenali & Other Stories, Thama and His Missing Mother etc.

D) VISITORS

Hamid Ansari Visited Indonesia

Vice President Hamid Ansari on 1 November, 2015 visited Indonesia to make key agreements in maritime security cooperation, bilateral trade and cultural exchange with Indonesia. Three crusial MoUs are done with Jakarta. One was a collaboration between the Ayush Ministry and Bali’s Uddiyana University in the field of Ayurveda.

China Vice President visit to India

Vice-President of China, Li Yuanchao, visited India on 3-7 November, 2015. Li is the first Chinese Vice President to visit India in more than six decades. Li has visited Aurangabad and Kolkata before Delhi. In Aurangabad he visited the Ajanta Caves and also met with the city mayor. In Kolkata he visited the House of Rabindranath Tagore. In Delhi on 6th November he met with the Indian Vice President Hamid Ansari and Prime Minister Narendra Modi and held meetings with them. India and China signed two agreements including one in the field of water resources on sharing hydrological data on Sutlej river. Under the cultural pact, India will hold exhibition of art from the Gupta period, which was known as “golden period” in the country and during which famous Chinese traveller Fa Hien came. He also focussed on the achievements of India-China cooperation, especially in the South Asian region, to mark his visit to India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visit to Turkey

Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Turkey on 15-16 November, 2015. After successful three-day tour of the United Kingdom, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 14 November night reached the resort town of Antalya in Turkey for the G-20 Summit. In Antalya, PM Modi raised issues related to terrorism, climate change and global cooperation to unearth black money, among others. He conducted bilateral talks with Australia Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull. The procedures for bringing India and Australia nuclear deal into force was completed at the bilateral meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull.

E) MISCELLANEOUS

Punjabi is the third most common language in Canadian Parliament

After English and French, Punjabi has now become the third most common language in the House of Commons in Canadian Parliament after 20 Punjabispeaking candidates were elected to the parliament in October this year. 23 lawmakers of Indian-origin were elected after general elections that were held on October 19, 2015. Of the 23 law makers, three do not speak Punjabi.

Modi ranks 9th in World’s Most Powerful list

The Forbes list of the World’s Most Powerful People 2015 was released on 4 November 2015. The list provided the annual ranking of the World’s 73 Most Powerful People.India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi was ranked as the world’s ninth most powerful person. In 2014, Modi was placed at 14th position.

Twitter launches Make In India emoji

The Indian government on 4 November, 2015 became the first non-US based brand to have a twitter emoji.. # MakeInIndia – which aims to promote the country as a global manufacturing hub. An emoji of a black lion on an orange background will now appear next to the #MakeInIndia hashtag in any tweet world wide.

Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella to co-chair the 2016 World Economic Forum meet

Microsoft chief executive Satya Nadella will co-chair the World Economic Forum’s annual meet in January, an event that is likely to be attended by over 100 Indian business leaders. More than 2,500 leaders from across the world, including from business, government and international organisations, would be coming together for the WEF meeting to be held in Davos from January 20 to January 23 next year. The theme of the meet would be ‘Mastering the Fourth Industrial Revolution.

PLACES IN NEWS

First world Indigenous Games

The first World Indigenous Games started in Palmas of Brazil. These games are nine-day event in which around 2000 native people from Brazilian tribes and nearly 20 countries will participate. These games will include archery, canoeing, tug-of-war and a race through the forest.

Ranchi to host Asian Athletics Championships

Ranchi will host the 22nd Asian Athletics Championships in 2017 as the continental flagship event is set to return to India after four years. The decession was taken during the 83rd Council meeting of the Asian Athletics Association in Manila, Phillippines.

Indigenous Terra Madre 2015 held in Shillong

Indigenous Terra Madre 2015 has been held on 3 – 7 november in Shillong, Meghalaya. Over 600 delegates have arrived from every corner of the world to participate in Indigenous Terra Madre, including representatives from over 100 different tribes and ethnic groups in 58 different countries. The event bring together representatives of indigenous communities from around the world to celebrate their food cultures and discuss how to bring their knowledge and vision of food production into modern times.

ABBREVIATIONS

BIS : Bank for International Settlements

IISc : Indian Institute of Sciences

IITF : India International Trade Fair

NIN : National Institute of Nutrition

NPS : National Pension System

PFRDA : Pension Fund Regulatroy and Development Authority

CBEC : Central Board of Excise and Customs

NSM : Naval Systems and Materials

Books in News

Abdul Kalam’s Last Book ‘Advantage India-From Challenge to Opportunity’

Former President APJ Abdul Kalam’s last book ‘Advantage India-From Challenge to Opportunity’ about how can new initiatives like ‘Make in India’, ‘Swachh Bharat’ can be used to unleash country’s vast potential, was launched on 3 November at the Indian Institute of Management-Ahmedabad (IIMA) in Ahmedabad. The book has been co-authored by IIMA alumnus Srijan Pal Singh, who along with IIMA director Prof Ashish Nanda were present on the occasion.

‘Rebooting India’

The book titled Rebooting India: Realizing a Billion Aspirations authored by Nandan Nilekani and Viral Shah was released on 4 November 2015. The book talks about the demographic dividend of India, which is expected to be the world’s youngest country by 2020 with 64 percent (roughly 800 million) of its population of working age.

Book on Indian Space Programme “From Fishing Hamlet to Red Planet”

Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on 5 November, 2015 released a book on Indian Space Programme “From Fishing Hamlet to Red Planet” to commemorate second anniversary of Mars Orbiter Spacecraft launch. The book was released by Prof U R Rao, Chairman, PRL Council and Former Chair-man, ISRO, in the presence of A S Kiran Kumar, Chair-man, ISRO, Dr K Radhakrishnan, Former Chairman, ISRO and many distinguished dignitaries of ISRO.

COMMITTEES

Justice Eswar Committee on IT Laws

A high-level committee has been set up by the centre under former Delhi High Court Judge Justice R.V. Eswar to suggest simplification of Income Tax (IT) laws. The 10 member panel will study and identify the provisions in the Income Tax Act which are leading to litigation due to different interpre-tations. The panel will suggest alternatives and modifications to the existing provisions and areas to bring about predictability and certainity in tax laws without substantial impact on the tax base and revenue collection. The committee will give its report at the end of January, 2016.

Five member panel to review research grants offered by UGC

The government has appointed a five member panel to review the research grants offered by University of Grants Commission (UGC). The committee will submit it’s report to the HRD MInistry. Students protest against the scrapping of the non-NET fellowship by the UGC. The committee has been asked to determine the feasibility of enhancing the coverage of NET fellowships which are merit based.

Empowered Committee under Nirbhaya Fund

The Union Government on 4 November 2015 constituted an Empowered Committee to approve schemes proposed under the Nirbhaya Fund. The Secretary of the Women&Child Development Ministry will be the chairperson of the committee. The Committee comprises officials from various ministries, including Women and Child Development, Home Affairs, Road Transport and Railways. The Empowered Committee of Officers will take decision on the sanction of schemes/projects from Nirbhaya Fund within 15 days of the date of receipt of the proposal by the Ministry of Women & Child Development.

IMPORTANT DAYS & DATES

November 7 : World Cancer Awareness Day

November 14 : National Children’s Day

November 11 : National Education Day

November 20 : Universal Children’s Day

November 25 : International Day on Violence against Women

October 2015 Year National Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Fri, 19 Feb 2016 13:22:00 +0000

NATIONAL

India to cut emissions intensity upto 35 Per cent by 2030

The Union Environment Ministry on 2 October, 2015 submitted it’s Intended Nationally Determined Contributions (INDCs) to the UN Frame work Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), committing to cut the emissions intensity of GDP by 33-35 per cent by 2030 from 2005 levels. India has committed to 40 per cent of non-fossil fuel energy to be adopted by 2030. It has also set the target of generating 3 billion tonnes of CO2 equivalent of Carbon sinks in the form of forests. India aims to mobilise domestic and global funds to implement it’s mitigation actions.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi released postal stamp on Abdul Kalam

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the A P J Abdul Kalam’s birth anniversary celebrations held at DRDO Bhavan in New Delhi on 15 October. Modi released a commemorative postal stamp on Kalam. Narendra Modi also announced a memorial for Kalam at Rameshwaram in Tamil Nadu. The Prime Minister unveiled a statue of Dr. Kalam at DRDO Bhavan and opened a photo exhibition titled “A Celebration of Dr. Kalam’s Life”.

Supreme Court Bench strikes down NJAC Act as ‘unconstitutional and void’

The Supreme Court on 16 October rejected the National Judicial Appointments Commission (NJAC) Act and the 99th Constitutional Amendment which sought to give politicians and civil society a final say in the appointment of judges to the highest courts. With this veredict, the Collegium system as it existed before the NJAC Act was passed, will become operative again.

Central Government launches KISAN Project and Hailstorm App for crop damage

The Central Government launched its flagship Kisan Project on 5 October to help farmers in the long run. KISAN stands for (K)rop Insurance using Space technology And geoinformatics. Combining the forces of digital world with the age old tradition of agriculture, the government is all set to make the lives of farmers more secure and comfortable. The project uses satellite and drone-based imaging and other geospatial technology to get accurate data on crop yields.The KISAN project will be implemented by Mahalanobis National Crop Forecast Centre (MNCFC) in collaboration with ISRO Centres – Space Applications Centre, Ahmedabad & National Remote Sensing Centre, Hyderabad; India Meteorological Department; CCAFS; state agriculture departments and state remote sensing centres.

India launched massive awareness drive on climate change by flagging off unique train

‘Science Express Climate Action Special’ is a 16-coach air-conditioned train that was launched on 15 October from Delhi in the run-up to the global climate summit in Paris in December 2015. The exhibits on the train would cover specific topics like adaptation, mitigation, India’s action on mitigation, international climate change negotiations, nature conservation, innovations in India, science lab, biotechnology applications and others.Over 190 countries would meet in Paris in December 2015 under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) to strike a new global climate deal aimed at controlling global carbon emissions for tackling global warming.

October 2015 Year International Current Affairs Bit Bank

noreply@blogger.com (Balaji M) — Fri, 19 Feb 2016 13:16:00 +0000

INTERNATIONAL

China to sell 8 submarines to Pakistan

China will sell eight submarines to Pakistan, with four of them being built in Karachi under a technology transfer agreement. The construction of the eight submarines will simultaneously begin in Pakistan and China and four of them will be built in Karachi. China will transfer technology to Pakistan for submarine construction. The deal is for Yuan-class Type 041 diesel-electric submarines equipped with air independent propulsion (AIP) systems.

North Korea celebrated 70th Anniversary of the Country

North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un attended the Military parade and mass rally in PyongYang on 10 October to mark the 70th anniversary of the country’s ruling party. Thousands of goose-stepping troops, tanks, armored vehicles, rocket launchers and a variety of missiles mounted on trucks rolled through the Square.

China starts biggest dam on Brahmaputra in Tibet

China on 13 October operationalised the 1.5 billion US Dollars Zam Hydropower Station, the largest in Tibet, built on the Brahmaputra river. Located in Gyaca county, Shannan prefecture, Zam Hydropower station also known as Zangmu Hydropower station, harnesses the waters of the Brahmaputra, known in Tibet as Yarlung Zangbo. Considered the world’s highestaltitude hydropower station and the largest of its kind, the dam will produce 2.5 billion kilo-watt-hours of electricity a year.

Fiji Parliament elects new President Jioje Konrote

Fiji Parliament on 12th October 2015 has elected the Minister for Employment, Productivity and Industrial Relations as the next President of the country, namely Jioji/George Konrote. He was nominated by the ruling Fiji First party gaining 31 votes in the presidential elections held at the parliament. Opposition SODELPA party candidate Ratu Epeli Ganilau received a mere 14 votes. As per the constitution of Fiji, PM and leader of opposition submit presidential candidate’s name to Parliament Speaker for voting. Konrote is an ex major general who had joined the Republic of Fiji Military Forces in the 1960s.

NATO launched Trident Juncture Military Excercise

To test the alliance’s ability to respond to new security threats, North Atlantic Treaty organization (NATO) launched a biggest military excercise called Trident Juncture Military Excercise in Italy. The Military excercise has mobilised around 36,000 soldiers, sailors and airmen from more than 30 NATO countries.