Current Affairs India and World Jan To Oct2013

Current Affairs India and World
July to October
2013
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Indian Navy and Royal Omani Navy conduct Exercise: Naseem Al Bahr
September 27th, 2013
Naseem Al Bahr- the 9th edition of biennial naval exercise between Indian Navy and Royal Omani Navy kicked off in Oman. In Indian fleet participating in the drill were Indian Naval Ship(INS) Mysore (guided missile destroyer), INS Tarkash , INS Tabar (stealth frigates) and INS Aditya (fleet tanker). On the side of Royal Omani Navy, ships participating were Royal Navy of Oman Vessels (RNOV) missile and gun vessels, RONV Al Muazzar, RONV Al Mussandam, RONV Al Naja and a Landing ship RNOV Temsah, along with Royal Air Force of Oman aircraft F-16, Hawks and Jaguars amongst others.
Russia offers India to joint venture in defence manufacturing

Russia proposed to build manufacturing units in India to undertake co-production of defence equipment and also agreed to set up two major projects in a joint venture for manufacturing civil choppers and aircraft. Both nations agreed on collaboration to jointly develop and manufacture civilian aircraft and helicopters especially for emergency relief and medical purposes. These aircrafts could be used not only for domestic use but also to export to third country exports. There is also a joint project under consideration that envisages for manufacturing in Indian factories different modifications of light helicopters Ka-226T for medical, rescue and other purposes. Russia has also made a new proposal involving IL-112V.
India to buy six more C-130J Super Hercules aircraft

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) headed by Defence Minister A K Antony has given approval for the purchase of 6 more C-130J Super Hercules aircraft from the US in a deal worth over Rs 4,000 crore. It will now need a final approval from the Cabinet Committee on Security. The DAC also gave nod for placing an order for 235 T-90 tanks worth Rs 6,000 crore with the Ordnance Factory Board. These battle tanks would be manufactured under the Transfer-ofTechnology agreement India has inked with Russia. The Indian Air Force already has six C-130J planes which are deployed at its Hindon airbase. The new lot of six planes will be positioned at Panagarh in West Bengal, which would be headquarters of the proposed Mountain Strike Corps of the army along the China border. Factbox: C-130J Super Hercules Manufactured by the United States. Worlds most advanced and tactical aircraft. Primarily designed to support Indias special operations requirement. Equipped with an Infrared Detection Set (IDS), the aircraft can perform precision low-level flying, airdrops and landing in blackout conditions. Self-protection systems and other features are included to ensure aircraft survivability in hostile air defense environments. The aircraft also is equipped with air-to-air receiver refueling capability for extended range operations.
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Ideally suited to Indias mission environment, which often involves operating out of austere, high-elevation airstrips in hot conditions. Powered by four Rolls Royce AE2100 engines and Dowty six bladed props which provide the aircraft with tremendous power. The aircraft has already demonstrated its responsiveness during the recent Uttarakhand flood disaster and 2012Sikkim earthquake where it played a major role in relief operations. The aircraft demonstrated its agility when IAF landed it at the worlds highest airstrip in Daulat Beg Oldi, in J&K, the place where Indian and Chinese troops had a stand-off recently.
India, Kyrgyzstan agree to bolster defence ties

India and Kyrgyzstan have agreed to further strengthen bilateral defencecooperation in areas, including training, UN peacekeeping and defence industry. It was decided at a meeting between Defence Minister A K Antony and Kyrgystan Defence Minister Taalaibek Omuraliev who is on India visit.
Indo-Kyrgyztan relations:
India has traditionally warm and friendly political ties with the Kyrgyz Republic. Kyrgyzstan also supports Indias stand on Kashmir and have welcomed the ongoing peace process. Kyrgyzstan also supports Indias claim for permanent seat at the United Nations Security Council and Indias role in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization(SCO). On the trade side, Indo-Kyrgyz trade totaled US$23.56 million in 2010-11. Indias exports to Kyrgyzstan was US$22.56 million whereas Kyrgyz exports to India amounted to only US$1.2M. Apparel and clothing, leather goods, drugs and pharmaceuticals, fine chemicals, and tea are some of the important items in Indias export basket to Kyrgyzstan. Kyrgyz exports to India consist of raw hides, metalifers ores and metal scrap etc.
Indian regains WHO-SEAR directorship after 44 years

The member nations of the World Health Organizations South-East Asia Region (SEAR) have chosen Poonam Khetarpal Singh, a former Indian IAS officer, as the regional director of WHO (SEAR). It is after a gap of 44 years that an Indian has been elected for the post. India had last occupied the chair from 1948 to 1968 but has not held it since then. Singh succeeds Plianbangchang of Thailand, who has served as regional director for 10 years now. She will serve the post for 5 years.
Which are the countries in WHO-SEAR group?
World Health Organizations South-East Asia Region (SEAR) has 11 nations. They are: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. Bangladesh Bhutan Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea India Indonesia Maldives Myanmar Nepal
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9. Sri Lanka 10. Thailand 11. Timor-Leste
Russia removes ban on non-basmati rice and oilseeds imports from India
In what can be a major boost to Indian agricultural exports, Russia has removed the ban on import of non-basmati rice and oilseeds from India.
Why Russia had earlier imposed a ban on import of Indian non-basmati rice and oilseeds?
Russia had imposed the ban on import of Indian non-basmati rice due to the presence of khapra beetles pest in rice and aflatoxin contamination of peanuts.
India suggest to avoid any action against Syria without UN report

September 9th, 2013
India is not in support of any action against Syria without a report of the UN Inspectors on the alleged use of chemical weapons and it asserted that no action should be taken without UN authorization. Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh clarified Indias stance in the recently concluded G -20 Summit in St. Petersburg condemning the alleged use of chemical weapons in Syria and anywhere else in the world. Indias view is that what happened in Syria should be ascertained before taking any action. Indias view were also supported by United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki moon as he noted that the ongoing conflict in Syria must be resolved diplomatically and arms must not be supplied to any conflicting side.
Current Affairs: Top Headlines September 6, 2013

September 6th, 2013
Iran to set free Indian tanker after 24 days of detention
Iran ordered release of an Indian tanker detained by it for the past 24 days at its Bandar Abbas port after being seized in Persian Gulf while carrying crude from Basrah in Iraq. The move comes after hectic negotiations between the two nations with India showing strong objections to the detention, saying it was a colourable exercise in violation of UN Convention on the Laws of the Sea (UNCLOS) and warning of serious consequences. The tanker belonging to Indias largest ocean liner SCI was impounded by Iranian Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) on August 12, 2013 citing environmental and pollution concerns.
BRICS to contribute $100 bn to Forex fund
The BRICS group of nations will commit $100 billion to a fighting fund to stabilize currency markets destabilised by an expectations of tapering of U.S. monetary stimulus. The major portion of the currency pool will come from China which holds worlds largest foreign exchange reserves.
IOC not ready to compromise on chargesheet clause, delays Indias return to Olympic
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has clarified that theIndian Olympic Association (IOA) has to adopt the chargesheet clause in its constitution which bars chargesheeted persons from contesting elections for key posts of the sports body. The stand taken by IOC
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has further delayed Indias return to Olympic group. IOA had proposed a compromise formula according to which the sanction will apply only to those officials who are convicted and sentenced to a jail term of more than two years.
Crisis risks are high in Pakistan: IMF
IMF suggested Pakistan to bring in comprehensive economic reforms to tackle the serious economic challenges its faces amid subpar growth and unsustainable fiscal and balance of payments positions. The International Monetary Fund suggested it after approving financial assistance of $6.7 billion to Pakistan to save it from economic crisis.
Sub-debt ratings of 11 Indian banks downgraded by Moodys
The subordinated debt ratings of 11 Indian banks including SBI, ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank have been downgraded by Moodys Investors Service. The other banks affected are Axis Bank, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Canara Bank, IDBI Bank, Indian Overseas Bank, Syndicate Bank andUnion Bank of India. The downgrade has been keeping in mind the increasing international trend of imposing losses on holders of subdebt securities as a pre-condition for distressed banks to receive government support. As a result, Moodys assumes that Indian government support is less likely to be approaching for the holders of such securities.
Current Affairs: Top Headlines for September 3, 2013

September 3rd, 2013
Washington moves USS Nimitz towards Red Sea
In what could be seen as a surge in tension in the West Asia region, the Washington has moved the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz towards the Red Sea, though the warship had not yet received orders to support a strike on Syria. US President Obama and his team are lobbying hard to seek US Congress approval for a military strike against the Syrian regime over the use of chemical weapons in the country. Russia has warned that any US military aggression in Syria would derail the Geneva peace plan and has suggested US Congress to take a balanced view of the situation in Syria.
IAF inducts C-17 Globemaster III heavy-lift transport aircraft
The Indian Air Force inducted three Boeing C-17 Globemaster III,heavy-lift transport aircraft into the newly-formed 81 Skylord Squadron at the Hindan Air Base, Delhi. C-17 has the potential to carry 75 tonnes of load which is almost double the capacity of Russian IL-76 in the IAF inventory which can carry only around 40 tonnes. It will boost up IAFs flexibility in terms of operational response and with the heavy lift capability it could easily move troops and heavy tanks to required locations.
India, Japan to restart talks on civil nuclear agreement
After a hiatus of nearly 3 years, India and Japan will resume talks on the civil nuclear pact in Tokyo today. The nuclear-energy negotiations were initiated in 2010 but have been on hold since the Fukushima nuclear disaster March 2011. This will be the fourth round of talks which comes following a meeting between Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and his Japanese counterpart Shinzo Abe in Tokyo in May, 2013 when they resolved to direct to expedite the negotiations of an Agreement for Co-operation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy towards an early conclusion.
Process of opening bank accounts for foreign students simplified: RBI
Simplifying bank account opening procedure for foreign students, RBI issued a notification asking banks to open a Non-Resident Ordinary bank account of a foreign student on the basis of his/her passport along with appropriate visa and immigration endorsement. As per the notification foreign
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students who intend to open a bank account will have to submit a valid address proof giving local address, in the form of a rent agreement or a letter from the educational institution in case of hostel facility within 30 days of opening the account. Banks have been asked not to insist on the landlord visiting the branch for verification of rent documents and to take up alternative means of verification of local address.
Afghanistan permits SAIL to develop Hajigak assets in phases

August 26th, 2013
Afghanistan conveyed the SAIL-led team that it did not have any objections to the $10.8 billion iron ore and steel plant project being developed in phases in Hajigak Mine.
Where is Hajigak mine?
Hajigak Mine is the best known and largest iron oxide deposit in Afghanistan is located at Hajigak in Bamyan Province, it is also Asias biggest untapped iron ore deposits.The deposit itself stretches over 32 km and contains 16 separate zones, up to 5 km in length, 380 m wide and extending 550 m down dip, seven of which have been studied in detail. The ore occurs in both primary and oxidized states. The primary ore accounts for 80% of the deposit and consists of magnetite, pyrite and minor chalcopyrite. The remaining 20% is oxidized and consists of three hematitic ore types.
Who is developing the Hajigak mining project?
The project is being developed by Afghan Iron and Steel Consortium (AIFSCO) which won the bid for the project in 2011. AIFSCO which consists of state-owned SAIL, RINL and NMDC is holding a combined 56%stake. The balance is held by private firms such as JSW, JSPL and Monnet Ispat & Energy. AIFSCO will set up a steel plant of 1.25 mtpa and a 120 MW captive power plant with $2.9 billion investment. The investment is likely to be between $10 billion and $11 billion. It will be done in phases. Steel plant will be developed in phases and it will be of 7 mtpa size. The local government would also allow the SAIL-led team to market its products in the neighbouring region. Afghanistans annual steel demand now stands at 1-1.5 mtpa. However, the demand would go up while rebuilding the war-torn nation.
India urges U.S. to renew GSP scheme

August 24th, 2013
India has expressed to the United States that it must issue an immediate renewal of the US Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) programme that expired on July 31, 2013.
What is the importance of the Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) programme?
The GSP programme helps developing countries expand their economies by increasing exports to the U.S. It also aids U.S. businesses by lowering the cost of imported goods that are used as inputs in value-added US production. U.S. businesses imported $19.9 billion worth of products under the GSP programme in 2012, including many inputs used in U.S. manufacturing. As per the recently released Trade Policy Agenda of the U.S. administration, helping developing countries grow and expand their economies through trade would also help the U.S. by providing its exporters greater opportunity to sell products to billions of new consumers abroad.
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The U.S. holds 16 % of Indias total services imports. Indian imports of US services is expected to rise sharply in the coming years as Indias middle class market expands and key services sectors bring in further reforms.
AERB nod to run KKNPP first reactor at 50 % capacity

August 20th, 2013
The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has granted permission to the Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP) to run its first reactor at 50 % (500 MW) capacity and synchronization of its generator.
What is the significance of Regulatory Board (AERB)? approval to Kudankulam Nuclear Power Project (KKNPP) by Atomic Energy
The approval means functioning of every component of the 1,000 MW-reactor supplied by Russia. The KKNPP first reactor is likely to generate 400 MW before August 2013 end and the reactor is expected to attain its full capacity of 1,000 MW by November 2013 end after getting mandatory clearances from the AERB.
Indian Parliament rejects Pakistan resolution against Indian Army

August 20th, 2013
The Indo-Pak political relations hit a new low due to recent border incidents. In a bitter exchange between the Parliaments of the two countries, both Houses of Indian Parliament together passed a stern-worded resolution rejecting and condemning the baseless and unsupported allegations made by Pakistan in its resolution against the Indian Army and the people of India. What is the issue, why Indian Parliament rejected Pakistan resolution against Indian Army? Recently, tension between the two nations escalated after the incident of unprovoked firing from the side of Pakistan occupied Kashmir (PoK)along the Line of Control (LoC) with India that killed 5 Indian soldiers. The incidence further strained the relations between the two nations with parliament of both sides alleging each other of unprovoked aggression. Pakistan passed a resolution in its parliament accusing Indian troops of unprovoked aggression by Indian military forces. Pakistan has rejected the involvement of its army in the LoC incident. The resolution by Pakistan also deplored the unjustified public vilification of Pakistan in the Indian media.
India wins 83 medals at World Police & Fire Games-Belfast 2013

August 20th, 2013
The 39 member Indian Police team won a record breaking 83 medals when they participated inthe World Police & Fire Games held atBelfast, Northern Ireland. As a result of this the record of 2005 World Police & Fire Games held in Quebec (Canada) where India had won 82 medals including 39 Gold was broken. The medals include 48 Gold, 22 Silver and 13 Bronze Medals.
Key achievements of Indian Team at World Police & Fire Games-Belfast 2013 :
The performance of the Indian team was outstanding in Athletics where a 14 member team comprising 7 males and 7 female police athletes won 22 Gold, 9 Silver and 6 Bronze medals. The
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male athletes won 15 medals including 7 Gold and the female athletes did exceptionally well winning 22 medals including 15 Gold.
No plan to increase research stations in Arctic and Antarctica

August 19th, 2013
Union Ministry of Science & Technology and Earth Sciences has clarified that India does not intend to increase research stations in Arctic and Antarctica.
What is the status of Indias scientific presence in Arctic and Antarctica? Status of Indias Scientific presence in Antarctica:
India presently has two research stations at Antarctica namely Maitri and Bharati. The new station Bharati in Larsemann Hills has just been constructed and established in March, 2013. Maitri station has been in operation since 1989. At both the stations research and investigations are undertaken to understand the Polar processes and phenomenon. Observations and studies are carried out in atmospheric, biological, geological, ecological sciences etc.
Status of Indias Scientific presence in Arctic:
Indian station in Arctic is known as Himadri is located at Ny Alesund, Island, Norway and serves as a hub of Indian scientific investigations since 2008.
Spitsbergen
INS Sindhurakshak (submarine of Indian Navy) sinks

August 15th, 2013
In a major blow to the Indian Navy, a recently refurbished submarine sank following an explosion and fire leaving 18 crew of its on board dead. INS Sindhurakshak sank into the shallow waters of its berth at the naval dockyard in Mumbai. INS Sindhurakshak: INS Sindhurakshak was a Russian-made Kilo-class Type 636 diesel-electric submarine of the Indian Navy. It was commissioned on 24 December 1997, It was the ninth of the ten Kilo-class submarines in the Indian Navy. The submarine had recently undergone modernization under a contract signed with Russia. After the overhaul, it had returned toIndia from Russia between May and June 2013.
World Bank & ADB to provide $ 400m to disaster-hit Uttarakhand

August 8th, 2013
The World Bank and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide $ 400 million for reconstruction and rehabilitation in the disaster-hit areas inUttarakhand. The fund would be spent in works in sectors including the housing, tourism, irrigation, agriculture, education, and health sector. Of the total money received, $ 95 million would be spent in the construction of roads. Also, $ 20 million would be given to the five hydro-power projects that are funded by the ADB and have been damaged due to the recent flood-disaster.
France to reduce Rafale order, programme depends upon Indian defense deal
August 6th, 2013
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France government has decided to cut back its orders for Rafale fighter jets from the current 11 per year to just 26 over the next six years. The move is likely to de-stabilize the entire Rafale programme unless Dassault Aviation is able to ink the India contract for the sale of 126 fighters for over 10 billion.
How the French decision to reduce the order can impact the Rafael programme?
France, in its new Defence Review, known in French as the Draft Military Programme (LPM),for French forces from 2014 to 2019, has announced to make savings particularly through a Reduction in Force (RIF) exercise, through the sale of immovable assets belonging to the countrys armed services and by limiting its orders for the Rafale. Earlier, Dassault Aviation, who is running the Rafael programme, had obtained the purchase by the military of 11 jets a year from the French government. But now the government has decided to cut back the order to 26 fighters in next six years creating a shortfall of 4 billion for Dassault. Now, the position is such that Dassault Aviation should count only on exports to support the production of the multirole combat aircraft. Dassault Aviation will have to sell so me 40 planes to Frances commercial partners if it is to juggle production costs, the armys requirements and the minimum number of aircraft it must build to maintain the commercial validity of the Rafale programme.
BrahMos receives orders worth Rs 25,000 crore

August 3rd, 2013
Indo-Russian (49.5 % stake) joint venture, BrahMos Aerospace developed the worlds first supersonic cruise missile and has already bagged orders worth Rs 25,000 crore from the Indian defence forces. The deliveries to the Indian Army and Navy have started and the joint venture will begin deliveries of a slightly modified version to the Indian Air Force from 2015.
Export opportunities and issues with BrahMos:
The 290-km-range BrahMos having multiple platforms to launch and its low cost has also attracted the world. There is lot of export opportunity with about 14 countries showing interest. However, there are issues like the countrys security interests and what model (of the missile) that can be exported. The production order for BrahMos would rise from $7 billion to $10 billion by 2015.
Upcoming Modified version of BahMos:
The slight modification of the version of the missile is being done to suit the needs of the Indian Air Force. It is being fitted to the Air Forces deep -strike Sukoi aircraft. In the mid of 2014, the live flight trials will be done and it will be ready for induction with the Air Force by 2015. The joint venture will later start work on new versions of the missile such as a hypersonic model.
DD Direct Plus to telecast Australias ABC International Channel

August 3rd, 2013
An agreement was signed between Prasar Bharati and Australian channel ABC International which will make available the ABC International channel to the viewers of Doordarshans Direct to Home (DTH) platform. The channel is the international service of the Australian public service broadcaster and is telecasted to more than 40 countries in Asia and the Pacific. The channel service will be available on DD Direct Plus from November 1 along with 59 other channels on Doordarshans DTH platform. The partnership between Prasar Bharati and the Australian broadcaster would extend into
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other areas like co-production activities, exchange of TV programmes, exchange of radio programmes and aspects.
India offers Vietnam credit for military ware

July 31st, 2013
India has offered $ 100 million credit line to Vietnamfor the purchase military equipment. It will be used for purchasing four patrol boats. Indias interests in Vietnam India aims to remain involved in oil exploration activity in the Phu Kanh basin of the South China Sea. But China has to claim that it is its zone of influence. Earlier, Vietnam and India have focused on strategic ties that include cooperation in the civil nuclear sector, training slots for Vietnamese military officers and frequent exchange of visits. India seeks to expand its defence ties with Vietnam to military hardware and Brahmos missile is one of the key items on Vietnams wish-list. India has co-produced the missile with Russia, which, however, has close ties with both Vietnam and China. Indian wants to enhance security ties with all countries beyond its eastern end as a key component to its East Look Policy.
British government to go ahead with Rs 2.7 lakh visa bond

July 31st, 2013
The British government decided to go ahead with Rs 2.7 lakh Visa bond despite Prime Minister David Camerons gave assurance to exempt India from the controversial visa bond scheme though the Home Office insisted that it was meant to target only high risk applicants.
What is Pilot scheme by UK Govt. for the Rs 2.7 Lakh Visa bond?
Under this scheme that is to be introduced in November, 2013 for the first time visitors from six Commonwealth countries including India,Pakistan and Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Ghana and Nigeria will need to deposit a cash bond of 3,000 for a British visa. It will apply only to those seeking a six-month visitors visa.
Why this Visa Bond Scheme by UK?
As per the UK government, the citizens of these six countries pose the major risk of abuse of visas. So they are interested in a system of bonds that deters overstaying and recovers costs if a foreign national has used their public services.
British traders ire for the UKs Pilot visa bond Scheme:
Britains business circles stated that with the Pilot scheme wealthy tourists from countries like India and Nigeria would be put off and would damage their business who were otherwise a boost for their business.
India and France concur to expand defence ties

July 31st, 2013
India and France discussed about the ongoing military cooperation and future cooperation in the areas of defence equipment and technology. This will be a mutual benefit for both the countries. The cooperation fields will include high technology joint research and development and transfer of technology.
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Key outcomes of the discussion between India and France: Negotiations have been made for Rs. 50,000 crore for procuring 126 Rafale combat aircraft for the Indian Air Force. Rs. 30,000 crore project for co-developing the Maitri surface-to-air missile defence system. A deal was done for building six Scorpene submarines for the Navy. Both nations agreed to enhance exchanges between their defence institutions and armed forces including in the areas of military educationand training and through the conduct of military exercises. Navies of both countries are working towards finalizing the schedule for the conduct of Exercise Varuna off the coast of India and the nextAir Force exercise Garuda to be held during the first half of 2014.
India to restore kerosene and LPG subsidy to Bhutan

July 31st, 2013
Giving a significant relief , especially its 12 % poor, India has decided to restore the subsidy on cooking gas and kerosene by the first week of August 2013. The Ministry of External Affairsclaimed that the Petroleum Ministry misinterpreted the Foreign Offices request for review of subsidies and there was no political consideration behind this.
How to Political Analysts see Indias move to restore kerosene and LPG subsidy to Bhutan?
Many political analysts see this as a step taken to affect the outcome of the recently held polls in Bhutan. India was not happy with Bhutan under the rule of Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT) and its Prime Minister Jigmey Thinley who was seeking Chinese support for a nonpermanent seat in the United Nations Security Council (UNSC). Bhutan without taking India into confidence held two rounds of talks with the Chinese once in Thimphu and then a summit in Rio in order to settle its border. Indias withdrawal of the subsidy led to substantial increase in the prices of LPG and kerosene. With the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) winning the elections it was claimed that India was successful in making high LPG and kerosene prices a poll issue as it added to the charges of economic mismanagement.
Parliament to approve 1974 Indira-Mujib pact

July 31st, 2013
The government will bring a constitutional amendment Bill in Parliament during the forthcoming session for implementation of theIndo-Bangla land boundary agreement. Indiaintends to ratify the 1974 Indira-Mujib pact fordemarcation of boundaries and for exchange of 161 adversely held enclaves with a population of about 50,000 people. Both the countries have discussed the modalities for implementation of the extradition treaty signed that will give the way for deportation of ULFA general secretary Anup Chetia, currently lodged in a Bangladeshi jail. India has also conveyed Bangladesh to ensure the release the remaining six Indians who were abducted by different Indian insurgent groups like NSCN, PLA and NDFB to that country. The six are part of 13 people whom the insurgents had kidnapped and taken to Bangladesh.
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India, Nigeria ink Solar Power Plant Agreement
July 30th, 2013
India and Nigeria inked a Solar Power plant pact to locate sites for solar power plants in Niger state. This would provide additional energy for the African countrys national grid . With this agreement Bharat Heavy Electricals will begin first round of studies of siting independent solar powered plants in selected locations in Niger. India expressed its interest in the provision of funds in various forms for the development of Nigerias power sector.
India, Belarus sign a deal to enhance trade ties

July 30th, 2013
India and Belarus signed a deal to enhance the trade ties during the sixth session of the InterGovernmental Commission.
Sectors to be focused in deal between India and Belarus:
The major focus will be on the following sectors i.e. Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technological and Cultural Cooperation. Also sectors like pharmaceutical, fertilizers, information technology and research and development will offer tremendous potential for cooperation between India and Belarus. India is looking for long term contracts for supply of potash to meet its growing requirements as far as fertilizer sector is concerned and Indian companies can look for setting up joint ventures in Belarus for production of potash based fertilizers. MoU will also be signed between the Ministry of Textiles, India and the Belarusian State Concern for Manufacturing and Marketing of Light Industry Goods in the Field of Textiles, Clothing and Fashion Industries.
INSAT-3D and Alphasat satellites launched successfully

July 28th, 2013
European space consortium Arianespaces Ariane 5 rocket launchedINSAT-3D and Alphasat satellites from the spaceport of Kourou in French Guiana, giving a boost to weather forecasting and disaster warning services.
About INSAT-3D:
Designed to provide meteorological observation and monitoring of land and ocean surfaces. INSAT-3D also carried the newly developed 19 Channel Sounder, the first such payload to be flown on an ISRO satellite mission. It will perform weather monitoring through its atmospheric sounding system, which provides vertical profiles of temperature, humidity and integrated ozone from surface to top of the atmosphere. It will provide continuity to earlier missions and further augment the capability to provide various meteorological as well as search and rescue services. The Data Relay Transponder (DRT) will be used to receive meteorological, hydrological and oceanographic data from remote, uninhabited locations over the coverage area from Data Collection Platforms (DCPs) like automatic weather station, automatic rain gauge and agro met stations.
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It is equipped with a Search and Rescue payload that picks up and relays the alert signals originating from the distress beacons of maritime, aviation and land based users to the Indian Mission Control Centre located at Isro Telemetry, Tracking and Command Network here.
Who will be the major users of Satellite Aided Search and Rescue service in India?
The major users of Satellite Aided Search and Rescue service inIndia are Indian Coast Guard, Airports Authority of India, directorate general of shipping, defence services and fishermen.
What will be the expanse of service region of INSAT-3D?
The Indian service region includes a large part of the Indian Ocean region covering India, Bangladesh, Bhutan,Maldives, Nepal, Seychelles, Sri Lanka and Tanzania for rendering distress alert services.
What are Alphasat satellites?
Alphasat is Europes largest telecommunication satellite-ever manufactured and results from a large-scale public-private partnership between the European Space Agency and Inmarsat.
India, Saudi Arabia decided to establish Saudi-Indian Business Network

July 27th, 2013
India and Saudi Arabia have decided to (SIBN) separately in Riyadh and Dammam.
What will be the focus of SIBN?
create
a Saudi-India Business Network
SIBN would catalyze the promotion of India-Saudi bilateral commerce and trade relations, investment, Business-to-Business interactions and exchanges. The proposed network would comprise of both Indian and Saudi businessmen, entrepreneurs, industrialists and members of business Chambers. Membership of SIBN would be open to all Indian and Saudi businessmen and entrepreneurs.
Salient facts about India-Saudi Arabia Trade:
Saudi Arabia is the 4th largest trade partner of India. Bilateral trade stood at 43.19 billion dollars in 2012-13. India imports 17% of its crude oil needs from the Kingdom which makes it largest supplier of petroleum. It is also one of the major markets for Indian exports and the destination for more than 1.86% of Indias global exports. India is the 5th largest export market for Saudi Arabia, accounting for 7.55% of its global exports. Both the nations have an established framework of cooperation which includes Joint Commission Meetings (JCM), India-Saudi Business Council. Several companies from both countries are collaborating in the spheres of designing, consultancy, financial services and software development. Saudi Arabia is also emerging as a big investor in India.
India emerges as the 2nd largest investor in London

July 25th, 2013
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India has come up as the 2nd largest investor in the city of London with Indian companies led by software major Infosys with the investment eagerness generated by the 2012 Olympic Games in the British capital. Infosys leads the inward Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) made by a total of 28 Indian companies, which generated 429 additional jobs for the British economy in 2012. Major sectors of growth: India has registered exceptional growth in the common areas of interest, such as transport and city planning. India brought in a large amount of additional 2.5 billion-pound foreign investment into the UK since the Games and Indian FDI projects in 2012-13 are estimated to generate 24 million pounds in gross value added for Londons economy over the next 3 years. Information and communications technology (ICT) was the key sector in terms of Indian FDI into London, followed by financial services and retail. In the financial services sector Axis Bank stood out for setting up its global operations in London as it has the right mix of potential wholesale and retail business to make it the ideal location for their first international subsidiary. The latest figures were released as part of an overall estimate of the economic impact of the Olympic Games on Londons economy . British government research indicated that the UK economy has seen a 9.9 billion-pound boost in trade and investment from hosting the Games.
British Government decorates Krishna Menons London home with blue plaque
July 20th, 2013
In commemoration to V.K. Krishna Menons long and eventful association with London, the British government has decided to put up an English Heritage blue plaque at the house where he lived when he first moved to the city. Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Patel are among the other Indian leaders previously honoured by English Heritage.
Who was V.K. Krishna Menon?
(Born: May 3, 1896, died October 6, 1974) Vengalil Krishnan Krishna Menon was an Indian nationalist, diplomat and statesman. He was Indias first High Commissioner to the UK and later became Defence Minister of India from 1957 to 1962.
Menon in the UK
While his stay in the UK, he served as a Labour councillor for the Borough of St. Pancras in 1930s, and is still remembered for introducing travelling libraries and childrens corners. During the Second World War, he served as an air warden around Camden Square, where he lived at the time, and in 1955 St. Pancras conferred on him the Freedom of the Borough, the only other person so honoured being George Bernard Shaw. He was described by the former Labour Prime Minister, James Callaghan as the embodiment of the movement within Britain for Indias freedom.
Who are the other Indian leaders honored with Blue Plaque previously?
Other Indian leaders namely Mahatma Gandhi, Bal Gangadhar Tilak, Jawaharlal Nehru and Sardar Patel have been honoured by this English Heritage, previously.
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Why is the significance of blue plaque?
The Blue Plaque Scheme of London was founded in 1866 is run by the William Ewart MP and the Royal Society of Arts to commemorates the association between the notable figures of past and Britains famous residents. More than 760 plaques have been placed across London by now. It is a uniquely successful means of connecting people and place. The Royal Society launched the scheme in 1867 with the unveiling of a commemorative tablet for Lord Byron.
Indian oil companies considering Irans gas offer

July 19th, 2013
India is thinking over Irans offer of Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs) in the energy sector, including one for developing the prolificFarzad B gasfield in the Farsi block of the Persian Gulf. This is the first time since the 1979 Islamic Revolution that Iran has offered three Indian oil companies ONGC Videsh Limited, Oil India Limited and Indian Oil Corporation PSCs at a time of diminishing crude purchases by India. The offer marks a departure from Irans earlier practice of offering Indian companies 15% fixed returns under a buy-back arrangement with the national oil company of Iran and also indicates towards Irans intention of improving ties with India. The PSCs offer the Indian companies a guaranteed share of production. However, India would have to analyse the advantages and disadvantages before accepting the offer, because of the sanctions the U.S. and the European Union imposed on Iran, primarily aiming its oil industry, to pressurize Tehran to give up its nuclear programme. In past: 2011: Indian companies opened talks with Iran for developing the gas field. But a subsequent meeting did not materialise because India was apprehensive of the impact of the sanctions on its companies. The impact of sanctions led to cut down in Irans crude supplies to India in the past few years. May 2013: Iran had offered the Indian firms PSCs to increase investment in the upstream sector. As a matter of fact, Iran offered to ship gas to India in liquefied form through Oman. Iran does not have the technology to liquefy gas, so it agreed to do the process in Oman. During 2012-13, Indias import plummeted by over 26.5% to 13.3 million tonnes from 18.1 million tonnes the year before. In 2012-13, Iranian share was 7.2% of Indias oil imports, down from 10.5% the previous year.
Farzad B Gas Field - Indian exploration in Iran
Since 2009, the Indian companies are negotiating with Iran for developing the Farzad B gasfield. As per initial estimates, it contains 21.68 trillion cubic feet (tcf) of gas, with recoverable reserves of 12.8 tcf. The investment in exploration is put at $5.5 billion, with an extra $8 billion-$9 billion for developing the field and building a liquefied natural gas (LNG) terminal, and for transport. This gas could go directly to India as LNG.
PDP victorious in Bhutan General Assembly polls

July 19th, 2013
Led by Tshering Tobgay, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has registered their victory in the polls to the General Assembly of Bhutan. It won 32 out of 47 seats, while the outgoing party, the Druk Phuensum Tshogpa (DPT), managed to retain the remaining seats in the election.
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The focus of the PDPs election campaign in the last few days was the strained India-Bhutan relations- where it laid the blame for withdrawal of subsidy on LPG and kerosene among other things, on the mishandling by the DPT.
India, Japan to strengthen defense relationship

July 17th, 2013
In a recent meeting between Indias National Security Advisor Shivshankar Menon and visiting Japanese Senior Vice-Minister of DefenceAkinori Eto, both the nations discussed on the possibilities of expanding the defence ties, which will include joint development and production of defence equipment. It must be noted that Japan, which normally has strict rules prohibitinginternational trade in defence equipment, has offered to sell India the ShinMaywa US-2, a highly sophisticated amphibious plane.
Current defence ties between India and Japan:
The current defence collaboration between the India and Japan primarily involves joint exercises, innumerable rounds between the Coast Guards and plans for an expanded second-ever interaction between the navies later this year.
Why Japan is strict on defence equipment trade?
In 1967 Japan voluntarily gave up international trade in defence equipment under the Three Principles on Arms Exports. These principles are: 1. No exports of arms to communist countries 2. No exports of arms to countries under U.N. sanctions 3. No exports of arms to countries engaged in international conflicts. Nine years later, Japan added a ban on arms-related facilities and technologies to the list.
What are the changes in Japanese defence equipment sales policy now?
Now, Japan has relaxed some of the defence equipment sale norms. India intends to take the advantage of this opportunity and could become the second country after the U.S. to gain from this. Australia and some European countries are already serenading Japan after it announced some exemptions in overseas transfer of defence equipment in 2011. Instead of simply buying the finished product, both sides will be looking at transfer of technology of some of the parts to Indian companies. The intention is to replicate a Maruti-Suzuki kind of venture. India feels the move to provide some of the inputs from India would benefit both sides because costs are high in Japan.
India, Maldives and Sri Lanka ink Indian Ocean security agreement
July 17th, 2013
India, Sri Lanka and the Maldives have signed a tripartite pact on maritime cooperation to secure sea routes in the Indian Ocean region. The three nations will share capacities and information to address threats to maritime security such as piracy, terrorism and gunrunning in the Indian Ocean and to pursue sustainable development of maritimeenvironment. The agreement was signed at a meeting on Trilateral Cooperation on Maritime Security held in Colombo, Sri Lanka.
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India clarifies views to Sri Lanka on 13th Amendment
July 15th, 2013
Indian National Security Adviser Shivshankar Menon has clearly voicedIndias view on the 13th Amendment of Sri Lankas Constitution emphasizing on the need for Colombo to fulfill its commitment to India and the international community regarding the same. Sri Lanka has also shared the development being taking place towards the implementation of the 13th Amendment. It has formed a Parliamentary Select Committee (PSC) to reach a consensus on the implementation of the 13th Amendment. The PSC, which was constituted in June 2013, presently has 19 members, all from the ruling coalition United Peoples Freedom Alliance led by the Sri Lanka Freedom Party. Sri Lankan President has explained the practical problems in devolving land and police powers to the provinces of a small country such as Sri Lanka and stressed that the structure that is implemented should apply and be acceptable to all parts of the country. The President also urged India to encourage the Tamil National Alliance (TNA) to participate in the PSC and said the government was committed to taking the process forward despite obstacles. Challenges before PSC: Despite all efforts of the PSC, there is still a cynicism as some politicians doubt over the PSCs ability to arrive at a fair decision on the 13th Amendment. The United National Party (UNP), the main Opposition led by Ranil Wikremesinghe, has not nominated its representative to the PSC as yet. The TNA, an amalgam of Tamil parties which has significant support base in the primarily Tamil-speaking north of Sri Lanka, has opposed the PSC. The Sri Lanka Muslim Congress (SLMC) in the ruling alliance, which has been in favor of implementing the 13th Amendment in its original form, is not part of the PSC, either. What is the 13th Amendment of Sri Lankas Constitution? The Thirteenth Amendment (13A) to the Constitution of Sri Lanka is amendment to the Constitution of Sri Lanka which created Provincial Councils in Sri Lanka.This also made Sinhala and Tamil as the official language of the country and English as link language. Background: Signed on July 29, 1987 b/w India and Sri Lanka. The Indo-Sri Lanka Accord is also known as the Rajiv-Jayewardene Accord, after its architects Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and President J.R. Jayewardene. On November 14, 1987 the Sri Lankan Parliament passed the 13thAmendment to the 1978 Constitution of Sri Lanka and the Provincial Councils Act No 42 of 1987 to establish provincial councils.
IOR countries to pursue open regionalism to stimulate growth

July 10th, 2013
Trade and industry ministers of Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IORARC) member nations agreed to promote trade within the grouping to encourage economic cooperation and development in the strategic Indian Ocean region. India (Gurgaon) and Mauritius cohosted the first economic and business conference under the theme of Deepening Economic Linkages for Balanced, Inclusive & Sustainable Growth.
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They decided to encourage open regionalism and reconcile trade practices in line with international norms and lower trade barriers. The group also agreed to build on the complementarities and identify key growth sectors. The members also expressed concern over the debilitating global economic environment and how low rates of growth in advanced economies have affected developing economies through slower international trade and lesser FDI inflows and urged member nations to adopt measures, consistent with their WTO obligations to boost growth and development in the region.
What is IORARC?
IORARC is Indian Ocean Rim Association for Regional Cooperation (IORARC) is an association of 20 member countries. The group came into being in March 1995 in Mauritius. Through it pass some of the most important energy transport routes from Middle East to South-East and East Asia, and securing these routes has become a global priority.
Who are the 20 members?
The IOR-ARC, which is the only pan-Indian ocean grouping, has 20 members, namely Australia, Bangladesh, Comoros, India, Indonesia, Iran,Kenya, Malaysia, Madagascar, Mauritius, Mozambique, Oman,Seychelles,Singapore, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, and Yemen. And there are six dialogue partners, namely China, Egypt,France,Japan, and Britain, and the United States, and two observers, namely, the Indian Ocean Research Group and the Indian Ocean Tourism Organization.
Objectives of IORARC:
1.
To promote sustainable growth and balanced development of the region and Member States
2. To focus on those areas of economic cooperation which provide maximum opportunities for development, shared interest and mutual benefits 3. To promote liberalization, remove impediments and lower barriers towards a freer and enhanced flow of goods, services, investment, and technology within the Indian Ocean rim.
What was Indias point at this conference?
India called for a common maritime security enforcement regime and liberal visa regimes to boost trade and investment. India looked for deeper relationships with the member nations and intends to play an enhanced role on the high seas to boost trade without militarising the region.
FIIs withdraw $5.6 billion from debt market in June 2013

July 6th, 2013
Past June 2013 was quite unfortunate for Indian currency and Indian debt market as it saw a historic outflow of FIIs to the tune of $5.6 billion which was the highest ever withdrawal in the markets history. A weak rupee diminishes the returns earned by FIIs. The exit meant net FII investment in the Indian debt market turned negative in the first half of calendar 2013, with outflows of $1.8 billion. The pull out shattered the inflow trend of the first five months of this year when FIIs had pumped in $3.9 billion. The net inflow in calendar 2012 was $5.9 billion. It was not only the debt market which plunged, FIIs also pulled out $1.8 billion from the equity market. Their net investment in
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equities, however, remained positive at $13.5 billion. Markets worldwide have been affected by the US Federal Reserves announcement that it will gradually withdraw its quantitative easing strategy, which has served its purpose. What is the current status? Indian investors fear that foreign inflows into the market will be hit if the US stimulus comes to an end. At the end of June, the cumulative FII investment in Indias debt market was at $31.7 billion, while the equity exposure was $139.5 billion. A total of 1,753 FIIs are registered with market regulator SEBI for transacting in the countrys market, with the number of registered sub -accounts pegged at 6,404.
India-China trade deficit expands to $12 billion

July 5th, 2013
There is a 34% surge in the trade deficit b/w India-China that reached $ 12 billion in the first five months of 2013, portraying a grim picture for Indian exports as bilateral trade continued to decrease, discouraging hopes of attaining a trade volume of $ 100 billion by 2015. Some key facts: The India-China bilateral trade touched $ 26.5 billion till May 2013. The trade deficit for India has expanded year-on-year to $ 12 billion, up by 34%. The trade volume was lowered by over $ 2 billion compared to 2012. While the Chinese exports registered marginal increase the bilateral trade numbers are falling. Exports have declined substantially while imports have risen marginally. Adding to the concerns, Indias main export items like cotton, iron ore and copper have continued their downward slide. Iron ore plunged by 76% to $ 595.42 million. Cotton and copper declined by 40% to $ 1.39 billion and 24% to $ 688.53 million respectively. Indias overall share in Chinese exports has dropped to under 1% from 1.33%. Cotton yarn and diamonds are the other two exports that rounded off the top five. Cotton yarn is the only item which is showing a jump of 115% to reach a value of $ 740 million. Diamonds have increased by 14% to record $ 562.1 million. The Chinese exports to India were increasing by 2.7% year-on-year.
India rejects Snowdens request seeking political asylum

July 5th, 2013
India turned down USA whistleblower Edward Snowdens request seeking political asylum. The Indian Embassy in Moscow had received a communication containing a request for asylum. Earlier, Snowden, currently sheltered in the transit zone of Moscow airport, has sought asylum in 20 countries, including India. These asylum requests have been filed by Sarah Harrison, legal advisor of WikiLeaks in the matter of Snowden. The requests were made to a number including Austria, Bolivia, Brazil, China, Cuba, Finland, France, Germany, of countries
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India, Italy, Ireland, Netherlands, Nicaragua, Norway, Poland,Spain, Swiss Confederation, Venezuela. Snowden is wanted in the US on the charges of espionage and leaking classified documents. Documents leaked by him last month revealed a systematic and large-scale surveillance of phone and internet communications by the NSA around the world.
Fact Box: INS Trikand (F51)

July 3rd, 2013
Indian Navy inducts INS Trikand (F51) Indian Navy has further expanded it arsenal by inducting frigate INS Trikand. It is the last of the six stealth frigates earlier inducted three 4,000-tonne Talwar-class stealth Tabar) from Russia in 2003-2004. India went on to buy Trikand) under a $1.15 billion contract inked in 2006. Factbox: INS Trikand INS Trikand (F51) is a Talwar class frigate of the Indian Navy. The Talwar class A class of frigates designed and built by Russia for the Indian Navy. Equipped with state-of-the-art combat suite: Supersonic 290-km BrahMos missile system, Shtil advanced surface-to-air missiles, upgraded A-190 medium range gun, electro-optical 30-mm close-in weapon system and anti-submarine weapons such as torpedoes and rockets and advanced electronic warfare system. Trebovanie-M: A combat management system which integrates weapons and sensors to enable the ship to simultaneously neutralize multiple surface, sub-surface and air threats. Innovative features to reduce its radar, magnetic and acoustic signatures to ensure it is relatively difficult to detect by enemy radars. Capable of speeds in excess of 30 knots Note: India is also building its own stealth frigates. Three Shivalik-class frigates, built at Mazagon Docks (MDL), have already been inducted by the Navy. There is a programme called Project-17A of over Rs 50,000 crore which is under consideration which plans to construct seven advanced stealth frigates, with all weapon and missile systems under the hull for a lower radar signature. The project will be shared b/w MDL at Mumbai and Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) at Kolkata. Russian built guided-missile stealth ordered from Russia. The Navy had frigates ( Talwar, Trishul and another three (Teg, Tarkash and
India-UK decide to develop Economic Corridor together

July 2nd, 2013
India and United Kingdom have decided to collaborate to develop the BangaloreMumbai Economic Corridor (BMEC)project in close association with private companies from Britain. Both sides have agreed to examine and evolve the modalities and content of this project through mutual discussions and work out a roadmap for a possible partnership in this area.
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In addition to this, India has also offered to UK, investment or partnership opportunities in the National Manufacturing and Investment Zones (NIMZs). . NIMZs are proposed to be developed as green field industrial townships and benchmarked against the best manufacturing hubs in the world. The new National Manufacturing Policy aims to create 100 million jobs and increase the share of manufacturing in Indias Gross Domestic Product from 16% now to 25% by 2022.
US to provide $150,000 for Uttarakhand flood relief via USAID

June 29th, 2013
US secretary of state John Kerry reached out to India over theUttarakhand disaster on Sunday as the US announced $150,000 through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to non-governmental organizations working in the most-affected areas. About USAID: The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) is the United States federal government agency primarily responsible for administering civilian foreign aid. USAID seeks to extend a helping hand to those people overseas struggling to make a better life, recover from a disaster or striving to live in a free and democratic country. USAIDs stated goals include providing economic, development and humanitarian assistance around the world in support of the foreign policy goals of the United States. It operates in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Europe.
Indians among top 5 foreign real estate buyers in the US

June 28th, 2013
As per report titled 2013 Profile of International Home Buying Activity, Indians are among the top five foreigners buying real estate inthe US, even as there has been a decrease in foreigners acquiring properties in the US. As per the report: The top five purchasers of real estate are Canada (23%), China(12%), Mexico (8%), India (5%) and the United Kingdom (5%). These five countries accounted for approximately 53% of transactions, with Canada and China the fastest growing sources over the years. California, Tennessee, Connecticut and New Jersey are the favorite destination states for buyers from India. Median price of the properties bought was USD 300,000.
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