Current Affairs PDF E Book June 2018

GKTODAY
Current Affairs [PDF E-Book] – June, 2018
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Contents
......................... ..... . . ......... ................................................................
Month Highlights – June 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 3
Jun, 01 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 16
Jun, 02 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 20
Jun, 03 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
Jun, 04 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 22
Jun, 06 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 24
Jun, 07 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
Jun, 08 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Jun, 09 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 30
Jun, 10 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 34
Jun, 11 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 37
Jun, 12 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
Jun, 13 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 45
Jun, 14 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 48
Jun, 15 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 53
June 16, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 56
June 17, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................
58
June 18, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 61
June 19, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 65
June 20, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 71
June 21, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 77
June 22, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 81
June 23, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 85
June 25, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 87
June 26, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 90
June 27, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 93
June 28, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 98
June 29, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 101
June 30, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 105
Multiple Choice Questions ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 111
© 2018 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 2

Month Highlights – June 2018

Government Policy and Schemes
First Delta Ranking of Aspirational Districts
The NITI Aayog has released first Delta ranking for 108 aspirational districts to measure their incremental
progress across five developmental areas during two month period of April and May 2018. For these
rankings, total 49 key performance indicators were mapped across five developmental areas: health and
nutrition, education, financial inclusion and skill development, agriculture and water resources and basic
Infrastructure.
Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan
Madhya Pradesh was awarded by Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for reducing maternal
mortality under Prime Minister’s Safe Motherhood Campaign (Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva
Abhiyan-PMSMA). The state was awarded for registering unprecedented 48-digit decline in maternal
deaths from 2014 to 2016 as per report of Registrar General of India (RGI).
ReUnite App
Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation has launched mobile application “ReUnite” in
New Delhi to track and trace missing and abandoned children in India. The app has been developed by
Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi‘s NGO Bachpan Bachao Andolan and IT company Capgemini.
National Centre for Ageing
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for National Centre for Ageing at All India
Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi. The Centre will be developed at cost of Rs. 330 crores
and shall be completed by February 2020.
Cotton Mission
Maharashtra Government has singed MoU with India’s largest commodities exchange platform, Multi
Commodity Exchange of India Limited (MCX) to launched Cotton Mission to empower cotton farmers in
the state. The mission aims to create value chain with final market linkages for thousands of cotton
farmers in Vidarbha region of the state.
Solar Charkha Mission
President Ram Nath Kovind launched Solar Charkha Mission under which Government will disburse
subsidy of Rs 550 crore to thousands of artisans, generating employment in rural areas. It was launched
during the event of Udyam Sangam (National MSME Conclave) on the occasion of World MSME Day
(observed on 27 June).
Women Entrepreneurs Platform (WEP)
NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurs Platform (WEP) has signed five separate Statement of Intent (SoIs)
with Financial Institutions & Social Organisations to create opportunities and support women
entrepreneurs. These organisations are Shri Mahila Sewa Sahakari Bank Limited, Indiabulls Housing
Finance Limited, SREI Infrastructure Finance Limited, Sreemanta Sankar Mission and the Self Employed
Women’s Association (SEWA).
Strategic Petroleum Reserves: Chandikhol and Padur
Union Cabinet has approved establishment of additional 6.5 Million Metric Tonne (MMT) Strategic
Petroleum Reserves (SPR) facilities at Chandikhol in Odisha and Padur in Karnataka. It also approved
construction of dedicated SPMs (Single Point Mooring) for the two SPRs. This decision is in line with
Government’s announcement of setting up of two additional SPRs during 2017-18 budget.
Export Credit Guarantee Corporation
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the capital infusion of Rs. 2000 crore for
strengthening of Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) to enhance insurance coverage to micro,
small medium enterprises (MSMEs) exports. The amount will be infused in three financial years i.e. Rs.50
crore in 2017-18, Rs.1450 crore in 2018-19 and Rs.500 crore in 2019-20.
Van Dhan Scheme
Union Government has proposed to set up 3000 Van Dhan Kendras involving 30,000 Self Help Groups
(SHGs) across the country under its Van Dhan Scheme.
National targets for off-shore wind power

Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has declared medium (5 GW by 2022) and long-
term (30 GW by 2030) targets for offshore wind power capacity addition. The offshore wind power will
add new element to already existing basket of renewable energy of the country.
Suryashakti Kisan Yojana (SKY)
Gujarat government has launched Suryashakti Kisan Yojana (SKY), solar power scheme for farmers
enabling them to generate electricity for their captive consumption as well as sell surplus power to grid
and earn extra buck. It is claimed to be first such scheme in the country, where farmer will produce his
power and sell surplus to State power utility.
E Sreedharan Committee
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved setting up of committee to lay down standards for metro rail
systems in the country. The committee will be headed by E Sreedharan (famously known as metro man of
India) who is credited for changing face of public transport in India with his leadership in building Konkan
Railway and Delhi Metro.
7-Star Gram Panchayat Rainbow scheme
Harayana Government has launched 7-Star Gram Panchayat Rainbow scheme to give star rankings to its
panchayats on the basis of seven social parameters. Under this scheme, as many as 1,120 villages of the
state have achieved rankings since its launch in January 2018. Ambala has topped star ranking followed by
Gurugram and Karnal.
National Health Resource Repository (NHRR) Project
Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched National Health Resource Repository (NHRR)
Project. It is country’s first ever healthcare establishment census to collect data of all public and private
healthcare establishments.
National Digital Library of India (NDLI)
Union Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) launched National Digital Library of India (NDLI)
on the occasion of National Reading Day (observed on June 17) in New Delhi. NDLI’s objective is to make
digital educational resources available to all citizens of the country to empower, inspire and encourage
learning.
National Testing Agency (NTA)
Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) has announced that National Testing Agency (NTA) will
train paper setters to set better question papers and provide better model answers. NTA was set up to
relieve Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and other educational regulator bodies from burden
of conducting multiple examinations.
CWC and Google Flood forecasting System
Central Water Commission (CWC) has signed collaboration agreement with search engine giant Google
for flood forecasting and dissemination of flood related information to masses. This initiative will help
crisis management agencies to deal extreme hydrological events in better manner for effective flood
management in India under National Hydrology Project (NHP).
BPO Promotion Scheme
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) is planning to expand its India BPO Promotion
Scheme to 1 lakh seats from current 48,000 seats. It will also set up 5th and India’s largest National data
centre (NDC) in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh with capacity of 5 lakh virtual servers.
Swajal Scheme
Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation has launched Swajal Scheme in 115 Aspirational districts of India
to provide clean drinking water. It will involve outlay of Rs. 700 crores through flexi-funds under existing
National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) budget.
Ayushman Bharat – National Health Protection Mission
Twenty States have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Union Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare (MoHFW) for implementing Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission (AB-
NHPM). The MoUs were exchanged during Health Ministers’ conclave held in New Delhi. During the
conclave, aspects of NHPM, like operational guidelines, model tender document for selection of insurance
companies and implementation support agencies for trusts were discussed.
Smart City Integrated Command and Control Centre
Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated country’s 10th Smart City Integrated Command and Control
Centre (ICCC) at Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Under the ambitious Smart City Mission, ICCC in nine cities
are operational in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Pune, Nagpur, Rajkot, Visakhapatnam, Bhopal and
Kakinada.
North Eastern Council (NEC)
Union Cabinet has approved proposal of Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER) for
nomination of Union Home Minister as ex-officio Chairman of North Eastern Council (NEC). It also
approved that Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of DoNER will serve as Vice Chairman of
NEC.
3 Year Action Plan of scheme for Agricultural Education
Union Cabinet has approved continuation of Three Year Action Plan (2017-2020) of scheme for
Agricultural Education Division and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Institutes. The plan
aims at strengthening and developing higher agricultural education in India.
Commission for sub-categorisation within OBCs
Union Cabinet has given final extension to commission constituted to examine sub-categorisation within
Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in Central list. The commission earlier had term till June 20, 2018 but
with extension it will now work till July 31, 2018.
Swachh Iconic Places
Union Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation has selected 10 more iconic sites under Phase III of
Swachh Iconic Places (SIP) of Swachh Bharat Mission. The third phase of SIP was launched at Mana village
which is situated close to Badrinath temple in Uttarakhand.
Atal Innovation Mission
NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) has selected 3,000 additional schools for establishment of Atal
Tinkering Labs (ATLs). The new additions take number of such ATLs to 5,441 representing all states and
five out of seven union territories. It will facilitate the creation of over one million neoteric child
innovators by 2020.
Seva Bhoj Yojna
Union Ministry of Culture has launched Seva Bhoj Yojna, a new scheme to provide financial assistance on
purchase of specific food items by Charitable Religious Institutions (CRIs) for free distribution among
people. Under this scheme, Centre’s share of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) charged on the raw
food materials purchased by the religious institutions will be refunded.
Wi-Fi Choupals
Union Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeITY) launched 5000 Wi-Fi Choupals in
villages in partnership with common service centres (CSCs). It was jointly inaugurated by Union
Electronics and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and Railway Minister Piyush Goyal in New Delhi.
Rail MADAD App
Union Ministry of Railways has launched Rail MADAD (Mobile Application for Desired Assistance During
travel) Application to expedite and streamline passenger grievance redressal. The application was
launched inline with Union Government’s Digital India Initative.
Swachh Bharat Mission
According to Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation, rural sanitation coverage of India has risen to 85%
under Swachh Bharat Mission. Recent survey conducted by Independent Verification Agency across
90,000 households in over 6000 villages across the country has found usage of toilets in rural India to be
93.4%.
Dam Rehabilitation & Improvement Project
The meeting of Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) has revised cost and deadline of World Bank funded
Dam Rehabilitation & Improvement Project (DRIP) to Rs.3466 Crore till June 2020.
Science, Technology & Environment

Blockchain Technology
NITI Aayog has signed Statement of Intent (SOI) with Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers & Chemicals
Limited (GNFC) to work together for implementing Proof-of-Concept (PoC) application for fertilizer
subsidy management using Blockchain Technology.
First stainless steel bodied MEMU
Integral Coach Factory (ICF) for first time has rolled out three phase energy efficient eight car Mainline
Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) train set built with stainless steel bodies in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. MEMU is
suburban train system that caters to needs of medium distance inter-city passengers.
Government bans oxytocin to curb misuse
Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has banned manufacture and sale of Oxytocin drug
formulations for domestic use in private sector to prevent its misuse from 1st July 2018. Its import also
has been banned. It also has not allowed retail or wholesale chemists to stock this drug in their shops in
any form or name. Henceforth, Karnataka Antibiotics & Pharmaceuticals Ltd will only manufacture drug
and supply it directly to registered private and public hospitals.
Jaitapur nuclear plant
French state-run power utility EDF and American conglomerate General Electric (GE) have signed
strategic cooperation agreement with State-run Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) to build for
construction of 6 EPR (European Pressurized Reactors) type nuclear reactors of capacity 1,650 megawatt
(MW) each at Jaitapur nuclear plant in Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra.
Global Environment Facility’s (GEF)
India announced to increase its grant to Global Environment Facility’s (GEF) new four-year investment
cycle, known as GEF-7 from $12 million to $15 million. It was announced at the GEF Council meeting held
at Da Nang, Vietnam and approved a $4.1 billion replenishment of GEF-7.
Giant Aldabra tortoise
Seychelles has gifted pair of Giant Aldabra tortoise to India as a goodwill gesture. They were brought to
India as gift from the President of Seychelles Danny Faure during his five-day visit to India. The pair was
handed over to Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad after Central Zoo Authority (CZA) in New Delhi gave
permission to house them.
RemoveDEBRIS
The first satellite named RemoveDEBRIS was successfully deployed from International Space Station (ISS)
and to demonstrate a range of innovative technologies to clean up space debris orbiting Earth. It was
transported to ISS via SpaceX CRS-14 launch in early April 2018. The satellite was designed, built and
manufactured by consortium of space companies and research institutions led by Surrey Space Centre at
University of Surrey, United Kingdom. The project is co-funded by European Commission.
World’s first International Centre for Humanitarian Forensics
The world’s first International Centre for Humanitarian Forensics was launched in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
The centre is joint venture of Regional delegation of International Committee of Red Cross (ICCR) in India,
Bhutan, Nepal and Maldives and also Gujarat Forensic Science University.
Canada legalises recreational use of marijuana nationwide
Parliament of Canada has passed Cannabis Act (or Bill C-45), a landmark law that legalizes recreational use
of marijuana (a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant intended for medical or recreational use)
nationwide. It makes Canada the first G7 country to legalise the drug’s recreational use and the second to
have a nationwide, legal marijuana market, after Uruguay (permitted in December 2013).
i-Hariyali App
Punjab government has launched ‘i-Hariyali’ mobile application under ‘Mission Tandarust Punjab’ aimed
at increasing the state’s green cover. It will enable app users to order free plant saplings and help to save
the environment from pollution.
International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 11
World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified gaming addiction as mental health disorder in its

International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 11. This is as per draft of new document that was released in
December 2017. This classification will be used by health professionals across the globe to uniformly
diagnose and classify risks for addictive gaming behaviour.
Glonass-M positioning satellite
Russia has successfully launched Glonass-M positioning satellite on board of Soyuz-2.1b carrier rocket
from the Plesetsk space centre in Mirny, Arkhangelsk Oblast. The satellite is part of GLONASS network
GLONASS (Russian acronym for Global Navigation Satellite System) which provides real-time positioning
data for surface, sea and airborne objects around globe, at accuracy reportedly at par with US Global
Positioning System (GPS). With this launch, there are now total 26 Glonass satellites in orbit.
106th Indian Science Congress
It will be held at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Jalandhar, Punjab from January 3 to 7, 2019. It will
be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The theme for the five-day science congress is ‘Future
India: Science & Technology’. It will be organised by the Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA), a
premier scientific organisation of India.
Global Alliance to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GAELF)
The 10th Meeting of Global Alliance to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GAELF) was held in New Delhi,
India. It was inaugurated by Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare J P Nadda. This is second time
India hosted meeting of GAELF. Earlier in 2002, India had hosted second meeting of GAELF.
Composite Water Management Index
NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog launched Composite Water Management Index
as useful tool to assess and improve performance in efficient management of water resources. The index
aims to inspire States/UTs towards efficient and optimal utilization of water and recycling thereof with
sense of urgency.
Lithium ion (Li ion) cell technology
ISRO’s rocket sciences arm Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) has decided to transfer its own in-house
lithium ion (Li ion) cell technology to successful Indian industries and start-ups on non-exclusive basis in
automobiles for Rs. 1 crore. The initiative aims to accelerate development of indigenous electric vehicle
(EV) industry and reduce dependence of imported lithium ion cell technology.
EPIC Planetary System
Scientists from Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad have discovered for first time distant
planet revolving around Sun-like star. Both the planet and the star have been named EPIC. With this
discovery India joins handful of countries which have discovered planets around stars.
India-US colloquium on Earth Observations and Sciences for Society and Economy
The second edition India-US colloquium on Earth Observations and Sciences for Society and Economy was
inaugurated at CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO), Dona Paula, Goa. The colloquium is
being organised by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research)-
NIO and US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Nipah virus
Kerala Government has decided to lift high alert issued in the wake of outbreak of deadly Nipah virus in
May 2018 in northern Kozhikode and Malappuram districts of state that has so far claimed 17 lives. The
outbreak of virus has been brought under control and its spread checked as no positive case has been
reported.
Auto Disable Syringe
Andhra Pradesh is set to become first state in India to use auto-disable syringes for all clinical purposes to
prevent infection. The state will enforce this decision from will from the World Hepatitis Day, observed
every year on July 28.
Defence Related
Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) Exercise
India and Bangladesh have agreed to institute Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) as an annual exercise
between navies of two neighbouring countries. The first edition of CORPAT between two navies was

inaugurated by Indian Navy’s Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba during his visit to Bangladesh. The aim Navy
Chief’s visit was to consolidate bilateral defence relations between India and Bangladesh and to explore
new avenues for naval cooperation.
9 nuclear countries have total 14,935 nuclear warheads: SIPRI
According to updated count by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the number of
nuclear warheads with nine nuclear countries has reduced from 14,935 at start of 2017 to 14,465 at start of
2018. These nine countries are United States, Russia, Britain, France, China, India, Pakistan, Israel and
North Korea. SIPRI is an independent think tank that uses open sources to compile such data since 1966.
Indra-2018 Exercise
The tri-service joint military exercise Indra-2018 between India and Russia will take place at Indian
military base in second half 2018. In this regard, Russian military delegation visited India to discuss
logistics of the exercise. In this edition of exercise, combined military units of Russian Eastern Military
District will participate in military drills.
Year of Disabled Soldiers in Line of Duty
Indian Army is observing year 2018 as “Year of Disabled Soldiers in Line of Duty” to honour soldiers who
have been disabled in line of duty. The primary focus of this initiative is to alleviate sufferings of these
soldiers, who have done their duty with utmost dedication to nation and have been disabled for the life.
Jaisalmer Military Station
Indian Army has drawn detailed plan to develop Jaisalmer Military Station in Rajasthan as smart facility
patterned on Central Government’s Smart Cities Mission. The development plan will provide a major
boost to local economy and aid in ecological conservation.
Rani Rashmoni
Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has commissioned fast patrol vessel (FPV) ICGS Rani Rashmoni, in
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. It is fifth and last ship to be commissioned in the series of fast patrol
vessel (FPV) project of ICG. The ship will be based at Visakhapatnam under the administrative and
operational control of Commander, No.6 Coast Guard District Headquarters (Andhra Pradesh).
Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA)
Team of specialists from US held meeting with their counterparts on Indian side in New Delhi to negotiate
text of Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), a foundational military
communications agreement. The meeting was held as part of preparations for 2+2 dialogue between
foreign and defence ministers of India and US scheduled to be held in Washington in July 2018.
Dhanush artillery gun
The indigenously upgraded artillery gun Dhanush has successfully completed final user trials and is ready
for induction into Indian Army. During third and final phase of user exploitation firings conducted from
May 31 to June 7, 2018 at Pokhran field firing range, six Dhanush guns were fired in battery formation
with 301 rounds each. With this test, Dhanush artillery gun has been tested in all terrains.
Pinaka rocket system
DRDO has converted indigenous Pinaka rocket system into a precision-guided missile, with enhanced
range and accuracy to hit its targets. The missile has completed its initial trial and now is undergoing
developmental trials. It is expected to be delivered to Indian Army in two years and complies with its
policy of use of precision weapons.
AH-64E Apache attack helicopters
United States State Department has approved sale of six AH-64E Apache attack helicopters along with
support equioments to India. The Apache choppers are one of the most advanced multi-role combat
helicopters which have advanced weapons systems and night-fighting features, manufactured by Boeing.
Surya Kiran-XIII exercise
The thirteenth edition of India-Nepal joint military exercise was held at Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand from 30
May to 12 June 2018. The joint military exercise was aimed at further enhancing and strengthening level
of defence cooperation between the two neighbouring nations.

First military exercise of BIMSTEC

India will host first military exercise of the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical
and Economic Cooperation) Countries in September 2018 in Pune, Maharashtra. The theme of the exercise
includes counter-terrorism in semi-urban terrain and cordon and search.
2018 Malabar Exercise
Trilateral Naval Exercise Malabar 2018 between India, Japan and United States kicked off the coast of
Guam in Philippine Sea. It will be 22nd edition of the naval exercise, which has now become an annual
feature in deep military ties between India and US.
ICGS C 439
Indian Coast Guard (ICG) recently commissioned interceptor ship ICGS C 439 at Mumbai, Maharashtra. Its
induction will help to further enhance operational capabilities to undertake multifarious tasks such as
surveillance, interdiction, search and rescue and medical evacuations along western coast.
Operation NISTAR
Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sunayana successfully evacuated 38 Indian Nationals after it entered Porbandar
harbour in Gujarat. They were rescued from cyclone-hit Socotra island in Yemen under swift
Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Operation (HADR) code named Operation NISTAR.
Geo-Intelligence Asia 2018
11th edition of Geo-Intelligence Asia 2018 was held at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, India from 4-5
June 2018. The aim of event was to provide platform to showcase innovative applications of Geospatial
technologies. It also aimed to provide platform for showcasing latest and updated technology to new and
existing users.
Finance, Business and Economy
Global Real Estate Transparency Index (GRETI)
India was ranked 35th among 100 countries (countries) in recently released Global Real Estate
Transparency Index (GRETI). The index was released by realty consultant JLL. India was ranked 36th in
the index during the last bi-annual survey conducted in 2016 and 40th in 2014. Its real estate market is
currently placed in the ‘semi-transparent’ zone.
3rd Annual Meeting of AIIB
The 3rd Annual Meeting of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) concluded in Mumbai,
Maharashtra in optimistic note to raise its lending capacity to boost prosperity and security in Asia. The
meeting was jointly organised by Department of Economic Affairs under Union Finance Ministry and
AIIB.
Bharat-22 ETF
The second tranche of Bharat-22 Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), comprising shares of 22 companies, has
received bids worth Rs. 15,436 crore, much higher than government’s fund raising target. The second
tranche was targeted to achieve fund mop up of Rs 6,000 crore with green-shoe option for another Rs.
2,400 crore.
Board of Management for urban co-operative banks
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed setting up of Board of Management (BoM) in all Urban Co-
operative Banks (UCBs) having deposits of over Rs 100 crore within one year to strengthen governance
and promote professional management in these banks. BoM will be in addition to the Board of Directors
(BoD).
National Investment & Infrastructure Fund (NIIF)
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has approved investment of $200 million in India’s National
Investment & Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) to give greater impetus to mega infrastructure projects. It will be
investing US $100 million now and remaining $100 million in the time to come.
Credit rating model
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is testing credit rating model, a new system
that will assist banks in assessing credit risk and probability of fraud using big data analysis. The system
is expected to help banks, particularly rural and cooperative banks, tackle the issue of rising

nonperforming assets (NPAs). Currently, rural and cooperative banks depend on judgement of bank
manager, resulting in high NPAs and frauds. A credit rating model can assist banks to quantify risks
under the big data context.
Draft on cross-border insolvency
Ministry of Corporate Affairs has released draft on cross-border insolvency in order to strengthen
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). It will help banks access overseas assets of company undergoing
resolution. Similarly, Indian authorities will also be required to cooperate with foreign creditors to
domestic company.
India notifies higher tariffs on 29 items imported from US
India has notified higher tariffs on 29 items imported from United States (US). This is was in retaliation
against US announcement imposing tariffs on steel and aluminium items — 25% and 10% respectively —
imported from all countries except Canada and Mexico in March 2018 to compensate from loss of revenue.
Women Wizards Rule Tech programme
Indian IT industry’s apex body NASSCOM (National Association of Software & Services Companies) has
launched ‘Women Wizards Rule Tech’ programme to increase number of women in senior levels in
Information Technology (IT) industry. The programme was announced in March 2018 at Nasscom
Diversity and Inclusion Summit in Chennai as joint initiative by Nasscom Sector Skills Council and Data
Security Council of India.
Suresh Mathur Committee
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDAI) has set up 10-member committee to review
norms related to Insurance Marketing Firms (IMF) with an aim to increase insurance penetration in the
country. The committee will be headed by Suresh Mathur (ED-IMF, IRDAI).
Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS)
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has narrowed the definition of relatives under the ‘maintenance of close
relative’ category of Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) to check outflow of funds and prevent misuse of
facility. Henceforth, funds under this category can be sent only to immediate relatives such as parents,
spouses, children and their spouses.
Banks Board Bureau (BBB)
Banks Board Bureau (BBB) has recommended 22 general managers to be elevated as executive directors at
the various public sector banks (PSBs). This is the first major exercise undertaken by reconstituted BBB,
headed by newly appointed Chairman BP Sharma, former Secretary, Department of Personnel and
Training.
FPIs in debt
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has eased investment norms for foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) in debt,
especially into individual large corporates. This move is aimed at attracting more overseas flows and
thereby help to arrest recent fall in rupee and also lift recent fall in demand for corporate bonds.
Trade War
China in tit-for-tat action has imposed additional tariffs and duties on $50-billion worth of American
products. It comes after US President Donald Trump slapped stiff 25% tariff on Chinese goods worth
similar amount. This has triggered full-fledged trade war between world’s two largest economies.
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)
India’s IT major Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) became first listed company in India to close day’s trade
with market capitalisation (m cap) of over Rs. 7 lakh crore (over $103 billion). M cap is value of company
that is traded on stock market, calculated by multiplying total number of shares by present share price.
Import duty on non-palm oils by 5-10%
Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBITC) under Finance Ministry has raised import duty by
5-10% on non-palm edible oils, both crude and refined ones, in order to protect interest of domestic
oilseeds growers and processors.
Direct listing of Indian firms abroad
The market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has constituted an expert committee
to recommend suitable framework to allow direct listing of Indian companies overseas bourses while also
allowing overseas companies to list directly on Indian bourses.
Institutional Trading Platform (ITP) framework
Market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has constituted Group to look into
existing Institutional Trading Platform (ITP) framework and suggest measures to facilitate listing of
startups.
Credit Enhancement Fund (CEF)
Union Government is going to launch Rs.500 crore Credit Enhancement Fund (CEF) in July 2018 to
facilitate infrastructure investments by insurance and pension funds. The CEF provides additional source
of assaurance or gaurantee that borrower will service their loan. It also helps borrower to raise loans at
lower interest rates. The fund was first announced in Union Budget for fiscal year 2016-17.
Rise in FDI
According to Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP), foreign direct investment (FDI) in India
increased to US $61.96 billion in 2017-18. FDI inflow in previous fiscal was US $60 billion. In last four years
perod, FDI inflows has jumped to US 4222.75 billion from US $152 billion.
Events & Observances
29 June: International Day of Tropics
The International Day of Tropics is observed every year on 29 June across the world with an aim to raise
awareness to specific challenges faced by tropical areas and t far-reaching implications of issues affecting
world’s tropical zone. This day celebrates diversity of tropics and provides opportunity to share tropical
stories and expertise and to acknowledge the diversity and potential of the region.
National Statistics Day: June 29
National Statistics Day is celebrated every year on June 29 in India to create public awareness about the
importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation. The day also acknowledges
notable contribution of Late Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in fields of statistics, statistical
system and economic planning. The 2018 theme is “Quality Assurance in Official Statistics”. It
underscores importance of compliance with essential parameters of quality in statistical systems and
products.
2018 World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) Conference
Haryana Government is going to host 2018 World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) Conference at
Gurugram in 10-13 October 2018. In this regard, State Government has inked agreement WUWM. The
conference will be organized by Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board.
June 27: International Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Day
It is observed every year across the world on June 27. This year is second edition after the day was
instituted in April 2017. The day highlights strong contribution of MSME businesses worldwide to
livelihoods, communities and economies, and need to support MSMEs towards their success.
June 26: International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking
International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed every year on June 26 across the
world to raise awareness of major problem that illicit drugs. The day is also observed as an expression of
United Nations’ (UN) determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve goal of international
society free of drug abuse.
Day of the Seafarer: June 25
The Day of the Seafarer is being observed every year on 25 June across the globe as an expression of
thanks to the seafarers for their contribution to the economy and civil society of the world. It also
acknowledges the risks and personal costs endured by seafarers while being in their jobs.
June 21: International Yoga Day
4th International Yoga day was celebrated on June 21, 2018 across the world to raise awareness worldwide
of the many benefits of practicing yoga. The theme this year was “Yoga for Peace”. The day’s celebration in
India were led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. He was joined by joined
thousands of volunteers, who performed Yoga asanas in the lawns of Forest Research Institute (FRI),

Dehradun.
June 20: World Refugee Day
World Refugee Day is observed every year June 20 to raise awareness of the situation of refugees
throughout the world. Observance of this day seeks to draw attention to the plight of refugees and also to
celebrate their courage and resilience and renew commitment to solve refugee problems. The theme for
World Refugee Day 2018 is “Now More Than Ever, We Need to Stand with Refugees.”
June 18: World Sustainable Gastronomy Day
The World Sustainable Gastronomy Day is observed every year on June 18 across the world. The day
acknowledges gastronomy as cultural expression related to natural and cultural diversity of the world. It
also reaffirms that all cultures and civilizations are contributors and crucial enablers of sustainable
development.
June 17: World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (WDCDD)
World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (WDCDD) is observed every year on June 17 across to
world to promote public awareness of international efforts to combat desertification. The day aims to
remind everyone that land degradation neutrality is achievable through problem-solving, strong
community involvement and co-operation at all levels.
June 16: International Day of Family Remittances
International Day of Family Remittances (IDFR) is observed every year on 16 June across the world. It is
aimed at recognizing significant financial contribution migrant workers make to wellbeing of their
families back home and to sustainable development of their countries of origin. It is also aimed at
encouraging public and private sectors, as well as civil society, to do more together and collaborate to
maximize impact of remittances in developing world.
June 15: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is observed every year on June 15 across the world to
highlight the often silent suffering of the elder generation. The theme this year is “Moving from
Awareness to Action through a Human Rights based approach”.
June 14: World Blood Donor Day
World Blood Donor Day observed every year across the world on June 14 to thank voluntary, unpaid blood
donors for their life-saving gifts of blood. It also seeks to raise awareness of need for regular blood
donations to ensure the quality, safety and availability of blood and blood products for patients in need.
June 12: World Day against Child Labour
The World Day against Child Labour is observed every year across the world on June 12 with an aim to
raise awareness against child labour. This years theme is ‘Generation Safe & Healthy’.
11th World Hindi Conference
Mauritius is going to host 11th World Hindi Conference (विश्व हिंदी सम्मेलन) in its capital
city Port Lois from August 18-20, 2018. It will be organised by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA),
Government of India in association with Government of Mauritius. The theme of the Conference will
be “Vaishvik Hindi Aur Bharatiy Sanskriti“.
June 8: World Oceans Day
World Oceans Day is being observed every year on 8th June to raise global awareness of current
challenges faced by the international community in connection with the oceans. The day also seeks to
provide unique opportunity to honour, protect, and conserve the world’s oceans.
Miscellaneous Terms and Facts
Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES)
Odisha Government has singed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Regional Integrated Multi-
Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) to enhance effective management of all kinds of disasters. The
collaboration is aimed at automating risk management, advisory generation and dissemination.
Elimination of all unmanned level crossings
Indian Railways has eliminated all unmanned level crossings (UMLC) from its four zones viz. West Central
Railway, Central Railway, Eastern Railway and South East Central Railway. These four zones aggregating

11,545 route kilometers have now become UMLC free on broad gauge route.
India-US 2+2 Dialogue
United States of America (US) has postponed its inaugural 2+2 dialogue with India which was scheduled to
be held on July 6, 2018 in Washington DC, citing “unavoidable reasons”. Both countries are now
identifying new mutually convenient dates to hold dialogue at the earliest, either in India or in US. This is
third time that 2+2 dialogue has been postponed in the last six months.
FATF places Pakistan in Grey List for failing to curb terror financing
Financial Action Task Force (FATF) at its plenary meeting in Paris, France has officially placed Pakistan on
its Grey List of countries involved in providing monetary assistance to terrorism and related causes for
failing to curb terror financing on its soil. FATF also has laid out 10-point action plan for Pakistan for
compliance with its guidelines. If Pakistan fails in implementing the elaborate action plan, it may result in
being included in FAFT’s Black List in 2019. This will be second time Pakistan has been grey listed by
FATF, for first time it was placed in the list for three years from 2012 to 2015.
Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)
The world’s foremost chemical weapons watchdog, Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
(OPCW) as granted itself new powers to help identify those responsible for chemical attacks in Syria. 82
members (exceeding required two-thirds majority) of the OPCW voted in favour of this proposal tabled by
United Kingdom at special session of Conference of States Parties in The Hague. 24 countries including
Russia, Iran and Syria voted against it.
UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA)
India has pledged $5 million for United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees
(UNRWA) in the Near East. Besides India, 19 countries also made pledges (contributions) for UNRWA at
the Pledging Conference for UNRWA held in New York, US. Among the donors, Sweden has pledge to
contribute US $250 million over four years, $ 51 million and UAE $50 million.
Cabinet Committee of Parliamentary Affairs (CCPA)
The Monsoon Session of Parliament will be held from July 18 to August 10, 2018. It will span over 24 days
and will have 18 sittings. It was formally announced by Cabinet Committee of Parliamentary Affairs
(CCPA) chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The CCPA recommendation now sets in summoning
motion process of President Ram Nath Kovind for formally convening the session.
Vnijya Bhawan
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of Vanijya Bhawan, a new office complex in New
Delhi for the Department of Commerce. Vnijya Bhawan will help in ease of doing business by bringing all
Departments of Commerce under one roof.
al Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) and Islamic State in Khorasan Province (ISKP)
Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has banned al Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) and Islamic State in
Khorasan Province (ISKP) under anti-terror law, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967. AQIS is
an affiliate of al Qaeda and ISKP is Afghanistan wing of Islamic State (IS).
United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
United States under President Donald Trump administration has announced its withdrawal from United
Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) terming it hypocritical and self-serving. It has blamed UNHRC
for bias against Israel and refusing to eject members who are violators of human rights. US had opted to
stay out of UNHRC before also: The George W. Bush administration had opted against seeking
membership when the council was created in 2006. US joined the council only in 2009 under President
Barack Obama.
Governor’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir
President Ram Nath Kovind has given his assent to imposition of Governor’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir.
This is the eighth time in the last four decades J&K was put under Governor’s rule and third time under
J&K Governor N N Vohra tenure.
SAARC Development Fund (SDF)
SAARC Development Fund (SDF) is going to launch social enterprise development programme (SEDP) as
part of its social window. The programme will be implemented in all SAARC member states with objective
of identifying and building social enterprises by using mix of grants and concessional returnable capital. It
intends to fund around 80 enterprises across the 8 SAARC member states (Afghanistan, Bangladesh,
Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) annually.
Assumption Island
Seychelles President Danny Faure ahead of his state visit to India has said that India-Seychelles joint
project to develop naval base at Assumption Island in his country will not move forward. He also
mentioned that Seychelles will develop military facilities at the island on its own. This statement comes
after growing political opposition in Seychelles to agreement that was signed with India in 2015 to develop
a naval facility at Assumption Island which would have given India strategic advantage in Indian Ocean
Region (IOR).
Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG)
Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) plenary meeting took place on in Jurmala, Latvia after Latvia assumed
chairmanship of NSG for 2018-19. With this, Latvia became first Baltic state to chair the NSG. There was
no headway in India’s application for NSG entry in this plenary meeting. India had applied for NSG
membership at 2016 Seoul plenary session, but it was objected by few member countries of NSG including
China. Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Dam Safety Bill, 2018
Union Cabinet has approved proposal for introduction of Dam Safety Bill, 2018 in the Parliament. The bill
aims to help all States and Union Territories to adopt uniform dam safety procedures which will ensure
safety of dams and safeguard benefits from such dams. This will also help in safeguarding human life,
livestock and property.
Nepal-Bharat Maitri Irrigation Project
India extended financial aid of Rs. 99 million to Nepal for the construction of 2,700 shallow tube well
(STWs) irrigation systems in 12 districts of southern Terai region to boost agricultural productivity. The
assistance was extended as part of final payment for Nepal-Bharat Maitri Irrigation Project. With this
payment, India has released so far released total of 227.6 million Nepali rupees to Nepal for implementing
this project.
Qingdao declaration
18th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit concluded with the adoption of the Qingdao
declaration. It was adopted by leaders of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan,
India (represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi) and Pakistan. It was India and Pakistan’s first
summit as full members of SCO grouping.
Global Peace Index 2018
India was ranked 136th among 163 countries in Global Peace Index 2018 that was released by Sydney-
based think tank Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). In Last year’s index, India was ranked 137th.
2018 GPI was twelfth edition of index since it was launched in 2006. Iceland was ranked most peaceful
country in the world and it managed to retain its position since 2008.
Berne Convention
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has notified declaration submitted by Indian relating to
Article II and III of Appendix to Paris Act (1971) related to Berne Convention for Protection of Literary and
Artistic Works. The declaration will enter into force, with respect to India from March 28, 2018. It will
enable India to avail itself faculties provided for Article II and III of the Appendix to Berne Convention
during 10 years period that will expire, on October 10, 2024
Queen Pineapple
President Ram Nath Kovind has declared Tripura’s queen variety pineapple as state fruit. Tripura is one of
the largest pineapple growing states in country. There are more than 100 commercial scale pineapple
plantations spread throughout the state.
Awards

Home Minister’s Special Operation Medal

Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved institution of Home Minister’s Special Operation
Medal. It also has instituted three more Medals- Antarik Suraksha Medal, Asadharan Aashuchan Padak,
and Utkrisht & Ati-Utkrisht Seva Medal.
World Food Prize 2018
The World Food Prize 2018 was awarded to Lawrence Haddad and Dr. David Nabarro for their individual
but complementary global leadership in elevating maternal and child undernutrition within food security.
The World Food Prize is most prominent global award for individuals whose breakthrough achievements
alleviate hunger and promote global food security. This year’s $250,000 prize will be divided equally
between two recipients.
UN Medal for selfless service
Indian Army contingent comprising of 7 Garhwal Rifles Infantry Battalion Group was awarded United
Nations Medal for “selfless service”. The contingent is part of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan
(UNMISS) in South Sudan. It has been complimented for carrying out numerous operational tasks with
utmost professionalism and dedication to the UN mandate. It has played an active and decisive role in
ensuring peace and stability in violence hit Jonglei State of South Sudan.
Smart Cities Awards 2018
Surat smart city from Gujarat was selected for ‘City Award’ for showing great momentum in
implementation of projects under India Smart Cities Awards 2018 especially in categories of urban
environment, transport and mobility and sustainable integrated development. Total nine awards in three
categories including Innovative Idea Award, Project Award, and City Award were announced by Union
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under India Smart Cities Awards 2018.
Dr Bindeshwar Pathak
Renowned social activist and founder of Sulabh International, Dr Bindeshwar Pathak (75) was honoured
with the Japan’s prestigious Nikkei Asia Prize for his contribution to Asia’s development. He was
presented with this award at 23rd Nikkei Asia Prize ceremony held in Tokyo, Japan under ‘Culture and
Community’ category for his significant work in tackling poor hygiene and discrimination.
Sunil Chhetri
India’s talismanic football team captain Sunil Chhetri (33) became joint second highest international goal
scorer among active players along with Argentine superstar footballer Lionel Messi. He achieved this feat
after he scored his 64th goal in match between India and Kenya in Intercontinental Cup summit clash in
Mumbai, Maharashtra. In this match, Chhetri scored two goals.
Friendship Medal
China awarded its first highest state honour Friendship Medal to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The
award was personally bestowed on Vladimir Putin by Chinese President Xi Jinping in grand ceremony
held at Great Hall of the People in capital city of Beijing.
Persons in news – Appointments / Elections
Antonio Manuel de Carvalho Ferreira Vitorino
Portugal’s Antonio Manuel de Carvalho Ferreira Vitorino (61) was elected as next Director General (DG) of
International Organization for Migration (IOM), an UN Migration Agency.
Anant Barua
Union Government has appointed Anant Barua as whole-time member of the Securities and Exchange
Board of India (SEBI). He is has been appointed to post for three years on the pay as admissible to
additional secretary to the central government or a consolidated salary of Rs 4 lakh per month.
S Ramesh
Union Government has appointed senior bureaucrat S Ramesh as chairman of Central Board of Indirect
Taxes and Customs (CBIC), the apex policy-making body for indirect taxes. He has been appointed as
chairman of CBIC with the status of special secretary to the central government. He will succeed Vanaja N
Sarna who retired on June 30, 2018.

AR Rahman
Sikkim Government has appointed renowned music composer AR Rahman as Brand Ambassador of the
State for a year. In his new role, he will promote and project Himalayan state’s achievements nationally
and globally. Earlier Rahman was made state’s Brand Ambassador of tourism and business.
Peggy Whitson
NASA’s record-breaking spacewoman, Peggy Whitson (58) has announced her retirement as astronaut less
than year after returning from her last and longest spaceflight. During her career, she had racked up total
of 665 days in space — more than any other NASA astronaut, and record for women worldwide. Her last
spaceflight lasted close to 10 months, spanning 2016 and 2017.
Sharad Kumar
President Ram Nath Kovind has appointed former National Investigation Agency (NIA) chief Sharad
Kumar (62) as vigilance commissioner in Central Vigilance Commission (CVC). He will have term of four
years or till he attains the age of 65. Sharad Kumar was IPS officer 1979-batch from Haryana cadre. He had
retired in September 2017 after heading NIA for over four years.
Arvind Saxena
Government has appointed Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) member Arvind Saxena as acting
Chairman of the commission. He will perform the duties of chairman of UPSC with effect from 20 June
2018 till further orders or till completion of his tenure in August, 2020. He will take over charge from
incumbent Vinay Mittal who completes his term.
Jun, 01 2018
Cochin Shipyard, Kerala Government ink pact to build three marine ambulances
Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) signed agreement with Kerala government to construct three marine
ambulances for state fisheries department. The agreement was signed by N V Suresh Babu, Director
(Operations), CSL and S Venkatesapathy, Director, State Department of Fisheries.
Key Facts
These three vessels will be designed by CSL at its in-house design department. These vessels will be able
to complement two patients and will have a total crew capacity of seven, including paramedical staff. They
will also have various paramedical facilities like examination and nursing room, medical beds, refrigerator,
mortuary freezer and medical lockers.
India, Japan, US: Malabar Exercise 2018 to be held off coast of Guam in Philippine Sea
Trilateral Naval Exercise Malabar 2018 between India, Japan and United States will be held off the coast of
Guam in Philippine Sea from June 6-15, 2018. It will be 22nd edition of the naval exercise. The exercise
comes at time of increased friction between China and US along with nations bordering resource rich
South China Sea (SCS) as China is militarising reclaimed islands in it to further strengthen its claim.
Key Facts
This edition of annual exercise will focus on high-end war fighting skillsets, subject matter expert and
professional exchanges. It will also include combined carrier strike group operations, surface and anti-
submarine warfare, medical operations, maritime patrol and reconnaissance operations, damage control,
helicopter operations and visit, board, search and seizure operations.
Indian Navy participation in this year’s exercises will include indigenous stealth frigate INS Sahyadri, fleet
tanker INS Shakti, anti-submarine corvette INS Kamorta and P-8I long-range maritime patrol aircraft.
Japan is deploying its helicopter carrier JDS Ise along with Kawasaki P-1 aircraft maritime patrol aircraft
and Soryu class conventional submarines. US is sending its aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan along with
strike complement of destroyers, nuclear attack submarines and support ships in addition to P-8A
maritime patrol aircraft.
Background
Malabar Exercise was started as Indo-US bilateral naval war drill in 1992. Since then it is held annually.
Japan had formally joined the exercise as permanent participant in 2015, making it trilateral exercise. The
primary aim of this multilateral exercise is to increase interoperability amongst navies of three countries
and develop common understanding of procedures for Maritime Security Operations and deepen defence
relations between them. In 2007, the exercise also saw participation of Australia and Singapore. All the

participating nations in the exercise have clarified earlier that the Malabar series is not aimed at any
specific country.
PM Narendra Modi launches 3 Indian mobile payment apps in Singapore
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched three Indian mobile payment applications BHIM, RuPay and UPI
enabled remittance app of SBI in Singapore aimed at internationalisation of the country’s digital payment
platforms. They were launched at ‘Business, Innovation and Community Event’ held in Singapore where
digital platform was the main theme.
Key Facts
RuPay digital payments system: It was linked up with Singapore’s 33-year-old Network for Electronic
Transfers (NETS). It will enable RuPay users to make payments at all NETS acceptance points across
Singapore. Besides, holders of Singapore NETS will be also able to make online purchases on National
Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) e-commerce merchant website, using 2.8 million RuPay point-of-
sale (PoS) terminals in India. This linkage will help to create multi-billion-dollar transactions as some 5
million Indians who travel to and transit through Singapore.
SBI’s UPI based rupee remittance app: It was also launched at Singapore branch of the SBI. It will help to
expand remittance offering. It will help Indian blue-collar workers working in Singapore to send
remittance of up to Rs 100,000 in quick, easy and convenient way with the help of Virtual Payment
Address (VPA). This service will be availableVineet
toSingh
all| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com
savings account |
holders of SBI Singapore.
RIMPAC 2018: 26 countries including India to participate in biennial exercise in US
The world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC-2018) will see
participation of 26 countries, including India. The exercise will be held from June 27 to August 2, 2018 in
and around Hawaiian Islands and Southern California.
The theme for this year’s RIMPAC exercise is “Capable, Adaptive, Partners.” Four countries Brazil, Israel, Sri
Lanka and Vietnamare are participating for first time. US had withdrawn invitation of Chinese navy in
response to China’s continued illegal militarisation of islands in disputed South China Sea.
Key Facts
RIMPAC 2018 will see participation of 47 surface ships, five submarines, 18 national land forces, and more
than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel. New Zealand will be serving as sea combat commander in this
edition of exercise, and Chile serving as combined force maritime component commander. This will be for
the first time non-founding RIMPAC nation (Chile) will hold component commander leadership position.
In this edition, RIMPAC for first time will see participation of land-based unit in the live fire event. It will
feature live firing of Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) from US Air Force aircraft, surface-to-ship
missiles by Japan Ground Self-Defence Force and Naval Strike Missile (NSM) from launcher on back of
Palletized Load System (PLS) by US Army.
Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise
RIMPAC is the world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise. It was held for first time in 1971,
since the held biennially near Honolulu, Hawaii (US) during June and July of even-numbered years. It is
hosted and administered by United States Navy’s Pacific Fleet (headquartered at Pearl Harbour) in
conjunction with Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Hawaii National Guard forces under control of
Governor of Hawaii. For this exercise, host country US invites military forces of countries from Pacific
Rim and beyond to participate. The biennial exercise seeks to provide unique training opportunity to
participants in order foster cooperative relationships to ensure the safety of sea lanes and security on the
world’s oceans.
Maiden test Next Generation SFDR Air to Air Missile successfully conducted
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully carried out maiden flight test
new surface-to-air missile (yet to get formal name) powered by Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR)
propulsion Technology. The test also successfully demonstrated technology of nozzle less booster for first
time in the country.
About Test
SFDR’s technology demonstrator flight test was conducted from Launch Centre-III of Integrated Test
Range at Chandipur, Odisha. The defensive missile flew in its intended trajectory at speed of Mach 3

(thrice the speed of sound) and met all mission objectives.

Significance
SFDR technology is jointly developed by India and Russia. It will help both India’s surface-to-air and air-to-
air missiles to perform better and enhance their strike range, making them more lethal. With it, India can
have fastest long-range missiles in two categories, providing full-fledged and multi-layered aerial
protection from hostile attacks. Its successful use in missiles will mark India’s entry into select club of
nations that use next-generation missile technology against maneuvering targets, compromising
effectiveness of conventional missiles.
Difference between SFDR and Conventional Missiles
SFDR is propulsion technology different than that of conventional solid fuelled or liquid fuelled missiles.
Present lot of conventional missiles uses booster or sustainer configuration with solid or liquid
propellants, which have limitations against maneuvering target. This is because terminal stage of
conventional missiles cannot provide enough energy to maintain their speed in order to hit targets. SDFR
technology removes this drawback by exceptionally enhancing endgame maneuverability of missile at
terminal stage when its seeker is locked onto target.
Core industries register 4.7% growth in April 2018
According to index of eight core industries released by Ministry of Commerce and Industry, eight core
infrastructure sectors grew by 4.7% higher in| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com
Vineet Singh April 2018. It | was driven by healthy performance in
segments like coal, natural gas and cement.
Sector wise breakaway in April 2018
Coal production: Increased by 2.6%.
Crude Oil production: Declined by 0.8%.
Natural Gas production: Increased by 7.4%.
Petroleum Refinery production: Increased by 2.7%.
Fertilizers production: Increased by 4.6%.
Steel production: Increased by 3.5%
Cement production: Increased by 16.6%.
Electricity generation: Increased by 2.2%.
Core industries
Core industries can be defined as main or key industries of the economy. In most countries, these
particular industry are backbone of all other industries. In India, there are eight core sectors comprising of
coal, crude oil, natural gas, petroleum refinery products, fertilisers, steel, cement and electricity. The eight
infrastructure sectors, constitute 40.27% of the total index of industrial production (IIP).
Revised weightage in core sectors: Petroleum Refinery production (weight: 28.04%), Electricity
generation (19.85%), Steel production (17.92%), Coal production (10.33%), Crude Oil production (8.98%),
Natural Gas production (6.88%), Cement production (5.37%), Fertilizers production (2.63%).
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana: Government inks $500 million loan agreement with World Bank
Government (Union Finance Ministry) has signed US $500 million (Rs 3,371 crore) loan agreement with
World Bank to provide additional financing for Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) rural road
projects. The loan has maturity of 10 years along with 3 year grace period. It will provide additional
financing for PMGSY Rural Roads Project to build 7,000 km of climate resilient roads, out of which 3,500
km will be constructed using green technologies.
Key Facts
World Bank has supported PMGSY since its inception in 2004. So far it has invested over US $1.8 billion in
loans and credits mostly in economically weaker and hill states across North India viz. Bihar, Himachal
Pradesh, Jharkhand, Meghalaya, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh. It has helped to built and
improved about 35,000 km of rural roads and benefited about 8 million people with access to all-weather
roads.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
PMGSY fully funded centrally sponsored scheme launched in 2000. It aims to provide single all-weather
road connectivity to all eligible unconnected habitations in the rural areas with population of 500 persons

and above (in plain areas) and 250 persons and above (in Hilly States , desert Areas, Tribal areas and
selected Tribal and Backward Districts). Union Ministry of Rural Development is nodal ministry for
implementation of Scheme.
For this scheme, 75 paise per litre has been earmarked out of cess levied on high speed diesel. It considers
habitation as unit for providing connectivity and not a revenue village. The scheme encourages use of
“Green Technologies” and non-conventional materials (like waste plastic, geo-textiles, fly-ash, iron and
copper slag etc) for constructing rural roads.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban): Government approves construction 1.5 lakh affordable houses
The Union Ministry of Housing & Urban Affairs has approved construction of another 1.5 lakh affordable
houses under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) for benefit of urban poor. Decision in this regard was
taken at 34th meeting of Central Sanctioning and Monitoring Committee. It approved investment of Rs
7,227 crore with Central assistance of Rs 2,209 crore.
Key Facts
Of the 1.5 lakh sanctioned affordable houses, Andhra Pradesh tops the list of houses with 56,512 units,
followed by Uttar Pradesh (26,060), Madhya Pradesh (17,920), Jharkhand (14,526) and Maharashtra
(13,506). With this, cumulative houses under PMAY(U) would be 47,52,751 houses. Since the launch of the
scheme in 2015, over 45 lakh affordable houses have been approved for construction from 2015 to 2018.
Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
PMAY(U) aims provide houses to all poor in urban areas by 2022. It is new version of Prime Minister’s
Housing For All by 2022 vision. Its objective is to construct two crore houses across nation. It covers
entire urban area consisting of 4041 statutory towns with initial focus on 500 Class I cities.
Intended beneficiaries of scheme are Poor people (BPL) and People living under Economically Weaker
Sections (EWS) and LIG (Low income Group) categories in urban establishments of country. It also targets
people living under MIG (middle income Group). Government will provide subsidy ranging between 1 lakh
to 2.30 lakh to people from above categories in order to make them secure.
Government launches Online Analytical Tool to monitor foreign contributions under FCRA
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) launched an Online Analytical Tool to facilitate closer
monitoring of flow and utilisation of foreign contributions received by various organisations registered or
permitted under Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act, 2010. The web-based tool will help to effectively
monitor hundreds of thousands of transactions undertaken by such organisations and help stakeholders
in Government to better regulate acceptance and utilisation of foreign contributions.
FCRA 2010 provides for regulation of acceptance of foreign funds/foreign hospitality by certain individuals,
associations, organisations and companies.
Features of web-based tool

It enables decision-makers in various Government Departments to scrutinise source of foreign funds and
their actual use in India. It will give them capacity to take evidence-based and data-driven decisions
regarding compliance of provisions of FCRA, 2010.
It has analytical features to conduct big data mining and data exploration. Its dashboard has been
integrated with bank accounts of FCRA-registered entities through Public Financial Management System
(PFMS) for updation of transactional data on a real-time basis.
Background
There are approximately 25,000 active organisations registered under FCRA, 2010. Such organisations
have received foreign contributions worth Rs.18,065 crores from foreign donors for various social,
cultural, economic, educational and religious activities in 2016-17. Each FCRA-NGO conducts multiple
financial transactions in receiving and spending foreign contribution.
India’s First Advanced Forensic Lab dedicated to women related cases to come up in Chandigarh
Foundation of Sakhi Suraksha Advanced DNA Forensic Laboratory was laid in the campus of Central Forensic
Science Lab (CFSL), Chandigarh. It is India’s first advanced forensic lab dedicated for crimes related to
women for timely deliver justice.
Key Facts
The advanced lab in par with international standards will contribute to address gap in forensic DNA
analysis of pending sexual assault cases in the country. The lab has been set up as model forensic lab and
will be replicated in other parts of the country.
5 more such advanced forensic labs will come up in Mumbai, Chennai, Guwahati, Pune and Bhopal in the
next 3 months bringing total minimum annual handling capacity of labs to 50000 cases. The labs in
Chennai and Mumbai will be set up with funds from Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD)
while remaining 3 labs would be set up with funds by Ministry of Home Affairs.
Units of Sakhi Suraksha Advanced DNA Forensic Laboratory
There are four units viz. sexual assault and homicide unit, paternity unit, human identification unit and
mitochondrial unit. Apart from Homicide and Sexual Assault and Unit, other three units are interlinked.
They will work to examine cases related to crime against women.
Paternity Unit: It will be help in solving cases related to criminal paternity, gender selection and child
swapping in hospitals.
Human Identification Unit: It will play important role to solve cases of missing person or children.
Mitochondrial Unit: It will conduct mitochondrial DNA analysis in cases where regular Nuclear DNA
analysis is not possible such as in case of highly degraded samples. It can also be used to better explore
family relationships.
Background
Forensic science plays vital role in the criminal justice delivery system by providing investigators with
scientifically based evidence information through analysis of physical evidence. There has been increasing
demand for better scientific analysis of physical evidence with increasing reports of crime against women
such as sexual assault, foeticide, homicide etc. Even the scrutiny of difference judicial courts also demands
more admissible, accurate and powerful forensic proof for human individualisation. At present there are 6
Central Forensic Science Labs (CFSLs) in Guwahati, Chandigarh, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Pune and Bhopal and
one State Forensic Science Lab in each State/UT. These labs are responsible for conducting forensic
analysis of all cases in country including sexual assault, criminal paternity and homicide.
Jun, 02 2018
Central Government forms Cauvery Water Management Authority
Following directions from Supreme Court, the Central Government has constituted the Cauvery Water
Management Authority (CMA) to address the dispute over sharing of river water among Tamil Nadu,
Karnataka, Kerala and Puducherry.
In February, 2018 judgement, the Supreme Court had directed centre to form the CMA within six weeks.
In the same verdict, the court had also increased Karnataka’s share in Cauvery Water marginally.
Cauvery Water Management Authority (CMA)
The newly constituted Cauvery Water Management Authority (CMA) has been created as per the Cauvery
Management Scheme earlier framed by Centre and approved by Supreme Court.
Composition and Powers of CMA
• The authority will comprise a chairman, a secretary and eight members. Out of the eight members, two
will be full time, while two will be part time members from centre’s side.
• Rest four will be part time members from states. The main mandate of the CMA will be to secure
implementation and compliance of the Supreme Court’s order in relation to “storage, apportionment,
regulation and control of Cauvery waters”.
• CMA will also advise the states to take suitable measures to improve water use efficiency. It will do so by
promoting use of micro-irrigation, change in cropping patterns, improved farm practices and
development of command areas.
• The CMA will also prepare an annual report covering its activities during the preceding year.
Role of Central Government
The central government will provide help in implementation of the modified award in case of any of the
state /UT parties (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka and Puducherry) do not cooperate in implementing the
decision or direction of the tribunal. Initially, centre will contribute Rs. 2 crore for the functioning of the
authority.

Cauvery Water Regulation Committee

Along with CMA, the government has also established Cauvery Water Regulation Committee that shall
give effect to the decision of the Cauvery Water Disputes Tribunal as modified by the Supreme Court
order. This committee will meet every 10 days during months of June and October when the south-west
and north-east monsoon set in and again after the monsoon has set in.
Ensemble Prediction Systems (EPS): IMD’s new forecast model
The Ministry of Earth Science (MoES) has launched a new system to generate more accurate and area
specific forecast of extreme weather events including rains, heat wave and cold wave. The new Ensemble
Prediction System (EPS) has been touted as best available model after such a system available in Europe.
Ensemble Prediction Systems (EPS): Key Facts
The new EPS system has been developed by three bodies under Ministry of Earth Sciences viz.
Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), National Centre for Medium Range Weather Forecasting
(NCMRWF) and Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology.
The most salient feature of new EPS is its high resolution for short-medium range weather
forecasts. Under the new system, the area of spatial resolution (currently 23 km grid scale) will come
down to 12 km. This would help sending out district level warning and forecast extreme weather
events as before as five days.
In its calculations, the system will use a newly procured 8 petaflops high-power computing system.
The system was recently procured for Rs. 450 crore.

Potential Advantages
The new system will generate more accurate and better area specific forecast of extreme weather events
in comparison to current models by quantifying the uncertainties in the weather forecast. The
probabilistic forecasts of severe weather events at 12 km grid scale would greatly help the disaster
management authorities and other users in making better emergency response decisions. The accurate
weather forecasts would help farmers to damage crops and also support administration to take disasters
prevention steps beforehand.
Gopabandhu Sambadika Swasthya Bima Yojana: Odisha’s Health Insurance Scheme for Journalists
Gopabandhu Sambadika Swasthya Bima Yojana is a new Health Insurance Scheme for the journalists
launched by the state government in Odisha. This scheme provides Rs. 2 Lakh per annum health insurance
cover to all working journalists of the state.
Key Facts
Gopabandhu Sambadika Swasthya Bima Yojana has come into effect from June 1, 2018 and will
initially cover around 3200 journalists and their family members from various media groups.
The insurance coverage will be applicable for cashless treatment in government and private
hospitals.
The scheme will also cover the injuries and illness faced by journalists while performing their duties.
Name of Scheme
The scheme has been named after Gopalbandhu Das (1877-1928) a prominent social worker, reformer,
political activist, journalist, poet and essayist of Odisha. His contribution to art, culture and society to
Odisha earned him the epithet of Utkalmani (jewel of Odisha). His contribution to journalism in the state
was short but remarkable. In the decade of 1910, he had launched a monthly literary magazine called
Satyabadi through which he tried to educate the masses.
Jun, 03 2018
Agni 5 Missile Test Fired off Odisha Coast
India successfully test fired its indigenously developed Agni- 5 missile on 3rd June. The missile was
launched from Dr Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. Agni missile is a surface to surface missile and
is launched with the help of mobile launcher of the Integrated Test Range at Dr Abdul Kalam Island
formerly known as Wheeler Island. This is the 6th test fire of the state-of-the-art Agni 5 missile.
The trial was a great success. The missile hit its target with great accuracy after covering its full distance.
The entire flight was monitored by radars, tracking instruments and observation stations.
Key Facts: Agni-5 Missile
Agni 5 ballistic missile is the brainchild of Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is
the most advanced in the series.

Agni-5 is a nuclear capable long range missile with new technologies in terms of navigation and
guidance, warhead and engine. The three stage, 17- meter tall, two-meter wide Agni-5 missile has a
range of Agni-5 missile is 5000 km. It can carry a nuclear warhead weighing up to 1.5 tonnes.
Agni-5 uses Ring Laser Gyro based Inertial Navigation System RINS. It is the most modern and gives
very high accuracy. The Micro Navigation System or MINS helped the missile reach its target with
precision.
Other features of Agni- 5 missile include, a high speed onboard computer, fault tolerant software
and a robust reliable bus. The advanced computer and the inertial navigation system are the
highlights of the missile as they aid in precision of the path.
The missile is highly reliable, has longer shelf life and enhanced mobility compared to the other versions.
Agni-1 has a range of 700 km, Agni-2 with a 2000 km range, Agni-3 and 4 have a range of 2500 km to
3500km.
New Humsafar Express Flagged Off between Jodhpur and Bandra
Union Railway Minister, Piyush Goyal flagged off a new Humsafar Jodhpur Bandra Express. The train
started its journey towards Bandra from Bhagat Ki Kothi Railway station in Rajasthan’s Jodhpur on 2nd
June 2018.
Humsafar Express are a completely 3-tier AC sleeper trains which started their operation from December
2016.
Special features to be implemented in the train are, LED screen displays, Vending machines, bio-
toilets, smoke alarms and CCTVs. Each coach is also planned to have heating chambers and
refrigerating boxes to keep the homemade food of the passengers fresh.
Adequate arrangements have been made in the trains, including mobile charging points, CCTVs and
Bio Toilets.
Railway Minister also highlighted that the current government has successfully doubled the ‘road under-
bridges’. He also spoke about the increased investment for Railways from Rs. 682 crores earlier to Rs. 2,911
crores on average.
Taj Declaration to Beat Plastic Pollution adopted in Agra
With an aim to make 500-meter area around Taj Mahal litter free and phase out single use plastic, Union
Minister Mahesh Sharma administered a pledge to Agra Residents.
The pledge called “Taj Declaration to Beat Plastic Pollution” was made in the presence of United Nations
Environment Program (UNEP) Executive Director Erik Solheim and UNEP Goodwill Ambassador Diya
Mirza. The declaration came ahead to the World Environment day, June 5.
Well before the declaration was undertaken, workshops were conducted to deal with problem. The major
focus of the workshop is to curb littering around the 17th century monument. Short term and Long term
plans are worked up on.
Minister Mahesh Sharma highlighted that India and the whole world is facing a huge problem of pollution
caused by the use of plastic. He said that the message of ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’ is meant not just for Agra
residents but to the whole country.
The UNEP representatives and Goodwill Ambassador expressed their happiness that all the agencies came
together for a noble cause of beating plastic pollution. The Environment day to be celebrated on June 5 has
a slogan of ‘Beat Plastic Pollution’.
Jun, 04 2018
Financial Literacy Week starts with theme ‘Customer Protection’
Reserve Bank of India is conducting Financial Literacy Week from June 4 on the theme ‘Customer
Protection’. The week-long event is to focus on creating awareness among customers of banks. According
to RBI, the event will emphasise on awareness about different financial products, services, digital
applications and good financial practices.
About Financial Literacy Week
RBI had introduced financial literacy week in 2016 to create a large scale awareness on key topics.
Non-Governmental Organisations collaborate with banks and made this initiative successful in the
past two years. Last year’s theme of the week was, ‘Know Your Customer’.
The focus of this year is consumer protection messages like, Know your liability. The customers will
be educated upon the safe digital banking practices. RBI underlines that, in cases of unauthorised
electronic banking transactions when informed in 3 days, the liability of account holder is zero.
RBI says that resolution of such transactions will be the responsibility of the concerned bank. The
bank should resolve the issue as soon as possible within 90 days from the day of receipt of the
complaint. Other focus point of financial Literacy week includes, creating awareness about Banking
Ombudsman Scheme of RBI.
Bankers, Financial Literacy Counsellors and other stake holders will be the major participants in the event.
29th Anniversary of Tiananmen Massacre Observed
June 4, 2018 marked the 29th anniversary of Tiananmen Square protests / massacre of China. On this day
in 1989, the Chinese troops had violently retook the Tiananmen Square in Beijing from the pro-democracy
protesters. On this occasion, the Chinese people worldwide also remember a lone man, better known as
“Tank Man” who armed with nothing more than two shopping bags stepped in front of the row of tanks
moving down the streets of Beijing. The image of Tank Man is considered to be most enduring image of
China’s violent crackdown on democracy supporters.
Tiananmen Square Massacre
Tiananmen Square in Beijing is known for Vineet
three major protests viz. 1919, 1976 and 1989 in recent Chinese
Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
history. The 1989 prodemocracy protests started in April that year and were suppressed on June 4 after
the military crackdown. This event is also known as June Fourth Incident in modern Chinese history.
These protests were started by a groups of students, intellectuals and labour activists of Beijing. Though
there was neither a common cause nor a common leader, the broad demand was political reforms as the
protesters did not like the way country’s economy was run by Communist Party of China.
These people were not happy with the rule of Deng Xiaoping, the successor of Mao Zedong, who had
launched several reforms, apparently biased against urban dwellers, while favouring rural.
On June 4, 1989, the Communist government in China used force to end the protests. The exact number of
causalities never came in public because of suppression of media.
India’s E-waste Generation: Key Facts from ASSOCHAM-NEC Study
A recent ASSOCHAM-NEC study on “Electricals & Electronics Manufacturing in India” has revealed that
India recycles only 5% of its e-waste and the country is one of the biggest contributors of e-waste in the
world.
E-waste of electronic waste refers to the electronic equipment being thrown away. It includes discarded
computer monitors, motherboards, Cathode Ray Tubes (CRT), Printed Circuit Board (PCB), mobile phones
and chargers, compact discs, headphones, white goods such as Liquid Crystal Displays (LCD)/ Plasma
televisions, air conditioners, refrigerators and so on.
Key Points from ASSOCHAM-NEC study
According to the recent ASSOCHAM-NEC study:
India generates around 2 million tonnes per annum (TPA) of E-waste of which 12% constituted of
telecom equipment alone.
Apart from India, the top e-waste generator countries are China, US, Japan and Germany.
Among Indian states, largest quantity of E-waste is generated by Maharashtra (19.8% ), followed by
Tamil Nadu (13%), Uttar Pradesh (10.1%), Karnataka (8.9%), Gujarat (8.8%) and Madhya Pradesh (7.6%).
Out of the 2 million TPA e-waste generated, only 4.38 Lakh TPA is recycled in India.
The low quantum of recycling of e-waste in India is due to lack of infrastructure, absence of strong
legislative framework etc.
The chemicals and pollutants generated by E-waste lead to environment and public health issues.
Prolonged exposure to chemicals released by e-waste causes damage of nervous systems, blood
systems, kidneys and brain development, respiratory disorders, skin disorders, bronchitis, lung
cancer, heart, liver, and spleen damage.
E-waste is one of the major global concerns of the 21st century. As per Moore’s law, the transistor numbers

to be accommodated in same size chip double every two years, and due to this most electronic systems get
outdated in about three years. People upgrade their mobiles, laptops, cameras, televisions etc. creating a
large amount of useless e-waste.
India receives first shipment of cheapest LNG from Gazprom Russia
On June 4, 2018, India received first shipment of its so far cheapest Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) from
Russian supplier Gazprom. The LNG has been delivered at a price close to USD 7 per million British
Thermal Unit (mmBtu). This price is around 1.5 USD cheaper from the LNG imported from Qatar, which is
India’s oldest and largest supplier of LNG. This price is also 1-1.5 USD per mmBtu cheaper than the LNG
sourced from Australia and United States.
India’s Natural Gas Production and Import
According to official data, India’s total natural gas production in 2017-18 was 32.64 billion cubic meter of
which 22.01 BCM is offshore production while 10.63% is onshore production. The natural gas production in
India has fallen in recent years as shown in below graphics:
However, at present, close to half of Natural Gas demand is fulfilled by imports. India’s natural gas
import dependence in 2016-17 was close to 45%. At present, India is fourth largest importer of
LNG.
Natural Gas is one of the key inputs for generation of power and manufacturing products in
fertilizer and steel industries. The current government policy also pushes towards a gas-based
economy by raising the share of environment friendly fuel in the energy basket to 15 per cent
from current 6.2 per cent.
India’s Gas Deals
At present, Qatar is biggest supplier of Natural Gas to India. The recent shipment from Russia has come
under a 20 year deal between India’s State-owned gas company GAIL India Ltd and Russian supplier
Gazprom. A few weeks before India had also imported its first ever LNG cargo from US under a long-term
import deal. The government policy is to expand the LNG import basket to meet any contingency due to
geopolitical or economic reasons.
Jun, 06 2018
Reservations in Promotions: Centre gets go ahead from SC
The Supreme Court has allowed Centre to go ahead with reservation in promotion for SC/ST employees as
per the law. From the centre’s behalf, the Additional Solicitor General Maninder Singh had pleased SC to
allow promotions, which were on standstill, as per mandate of the constitution. This plea was accepted by
SC bench hearing the case.

Background
With respect to the reservation in promotions in government jobs, the Supreme Court verdict in M
Nagaraj Case (2006) that concept of creamy layer is not applicable to scheduled castes and scheduled
tribes. Two earlier cases viz. Indra Sawhney Case (1992) and E V Chinnaiah versus State of Andhra Pradesh
(2005) had dealt with the issue of creamy layer for Other Backward Classes. On this basis, the centre had
issued an order in 2017 extending reservation in promotions to SC and ST employees beyond five years
from November 16,1992. This government order was challenged in Delhi High Court. The Delhi High Court
quashed the Central Government order and thus, the promotions came to at standstill.
Central Government later approached Supreme Court for relief and the current SC order provides that
much needed relief to Centre.
What next?
The case is still sub judice in Supreme Court. A constitutional bench will examine the issue as to whether
the M Nagaraj judgement, which dealt with the issue of application of the ‘creamy layer’ for reservation to
SC and ST categories in promotion in government jobs, should be re-examined or not.
Reservation in Promotions
Reservations in promotions are mandated by Article 16 (4A) of the constitution. This article is an enabling
provision and enables the state to provide for reservation in matters of promotion to SC/ST which in its
opinion were not adequately represented inVineet
the services.
IBSA Ministerial Meet held at Pretoria, South Africa

A meeting between external affairs ministers of India, Brazil and South Africa was organized in Pretoria,
South Africa. This ministerial summit chaired by India’s External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was
attended by South African Minister of International Affairs and Cooperation Lindiwe Sisulu and the
Brazilian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Marcos Bezerra Abbott Galvao.
The outcome of this meeting was a document titled IBSA Declaration on South-South Cooperation. This
document calls for contribtion of each of the member of IBSA forum to contribute to greater
understanding of development cooperation as a common endeavour of the global South.
About IBSA
IBSA Dialogue Forum, comprising India, Brazil, South Africa, is a tripartite group which supports
promotion of cooperation in various fields between these three important poles of South-South
cooperation. Main objective of IBSA include:
To promote South-South cooperation by making an important axis between three important
countries of three continents viz. India, Africa and South America.
To build consensus on issues of international importance such as UN and UNSC reforms and
reforms in Brettonwoods Organizations.
To increase trade / exchange of information opportunities between the three countries and their
efforts in international poverty alleviation and social development.
IBSA was established in 2003 via Brasilia Declaration by external affairs ministers of India, Brazil and
South Africa.
Rs. 8500 Crore Bailout Package for Sugar Industry Approved
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister has approved a Rs. 8500 Crore bailout package for the
distressed sugar industry in the country.
Background
India is world’s second largest sugar producer after Brazil with production of around 20-25 million tonnes
of sugar every year. The sugar production was 25.13 million tonnes in 2015-16 sugar season (sugar season
~ October to September); 20.2 million tonnes in 2016-17, 25 million tonnes in 2017-18 and is expected to be
around 30 million tonnes in 2018-19. Currently, UP is India’s foremost sugar producing state and it is
likely to maintain this position for the next two years. Maharashtra is on number 2 in production of both
sugarcane as well as sugar.
The bumper harvest of sugarcane has created problem of plenty for already troubled cane farmers, sugar
mills as well as governments at centre and state. The sugar mills need to buy cane from farmers at state
advised price (SAP) but have to sell their produce at either marginal cost above production or in loss. Thus,

higher price purchase of sugarcane but low price sale of sugar in open market creates stress on sugar
mills and they are unable to make payments to farmers. This leads to accumulation of arrears.
Government Efforts
Though government decontrolled sugar industry partially in 2013 and allowed them to sell their produce
in open market, the sugar industry faces a bizarre problem that price of its raw material (cane) is fixed by
state and central governments as State Advised Price (SAP) and Fair and Remunerative Price (FRP)
respectively. The government supported cane prices are attractive to farmers, but loss due to any fall in
the prices of sugar in open market has to be borne by the sugar industry. Further, absence of
infrastructure for ethanol production makes sure that the surplus production of sugarcane is not
optimally absorbed.
Current Package
This package announced on June 6, 2018 includes Rs. 4500 crore soft loan for building ethanol production
capacity and Rs. 1540-crore production-linked direct payments to cane farmers by sugar mills. Further,
government has also hiked import duty on sugar to curb the problem of plenty. Government has also
decided to create some kind of stock of sugar.
RBI’s Monetary Policy Review: RBI Hikes Repo Rate to 6.25%
On June 6, 2018, the six members Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of RBI has decided to hike Repo
(short term lending rate) to 6.25% from 6.00%. As| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com
Vineet Singh per the second | Bi-monthly Monetary Policy Statement,
the current policy rates of RBI would be as follows:
Repo Rate: 6.25%
Reverse Repo Rate: 6.00%
Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) Rate: 6.50%
The recent rise of 25 basis points in key policy rates is for the first time in four and half years since NDA
government was formed in May, 2014.
Repo Rate
Repo rate, or repurchase rate, is the rate at which RBI lends to banks for short periods. This is done by RBI
buying government bonds from banks with an agreement to sell them back at a fixed rate. When RBI
increases Repo Rate, the banks can borrow less at a lower cost and thus need to lend at higher rates. This
contributes to hike of the interest rates in markets. When RBI increases the repo rate, the move is
generally called a tight monetary policy stance.
Reverse Repo Rate
Reverse repo rate is the rate of interest at which the RBI borrows funds from other banks in the short
term. This is done by RBI selling government bonds / securities to banks with the commitment to buy
them back at a future date. The banks use the reverse repo facility to deposit their short-term excess funds
with the RBI and earn interest on it. RBI can reduce liquidity in the banking system by increasing the rate
at which it borrows from banks. Hiking the repo and reverse repo rate ends up reducing the liquidity and
pushes up interest rates.
When the RBI increases the Reverse Repo, it means that now the RBI will provide extra interest on the
money which it borrows from the banks. An increase in reverse repo rate means that banks earn higher
returns by lending to RBI. This indicates a hike in the deposit rates.
Marginal Standing Facility
Marginal Standing Facility is a new Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) window created by Reserve Bank
of India in 2011. MSF is the rate at which the banks are able to borrow overnight funds from RBI against the
approved government securities. The rate of interest on MSF is above 100 bps above the Repo Rate. The
banks can borrow up to 1 percent of their net demand and time liabilities (NDTL) from this facility.
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018 Promulgated
President Ram Nath Kovind has assented to the promulgation of Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code
(Amendment) Ordinance, 2018 on June 6, 2018. This ordinance makes some fine-tuning mechanisms in the
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
Key Points
This ordinance brings some specific changes affecting mainly real estate and financial sectors. The notable
changes are as follows:
Homebuyers Recognized as Financial Creditors

After this amendment, the IBC law will recognize the homebuyers as financial creditors, giving them due
representation in the Committee of Creditors (CoC). Thus, now home buyers will be an integral part of the
decision making process. The CoC will also have representation from security holders, deposit holders and
all other financial creditors.
Special Provisions for MSME
The amendment ordinance gives some special benefits to the Micro, Small and Medium Sector
Enterprises. Now, the promoters of MSMEs are allowed to bid for their companies as long as they are not
wilful defaultersand don’t attract any other related disqualification. This has corrected the anomaly in the
section 29A of the existing act which had barred promoters of defaulting assets from bidding for their
assets.
Withdrawal of Insolvency Application
The ordinance permits the withdrawal of the insolvency applications only if it is approved by 90% vote
share of the CoC. Further, the CoC voting threshold has been brought down to 66 percent from 75 percent
for all major decisions such as approval of resolution plan, extension of insolvency period etc. This is to
encourage resolution versus liquidation.
Other provisions Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Other notable provisions are as follows:
It brings more clarity by laying down mandatory timelines, processes and procedures for corporate
insolvency resolution process.
Addresses some issues such as non-entertainment of late bids, no negotiation with the late bidders
and a well laid down procedure for maximizing value of assets.
Exempts pure play financial entities from being disqualified on account of NPA and NPA acquired
under Insolvency Code shall not disqualify an entity for the next three years.
Successful resolution applicants will get a minimum one-year grace period to fulfill various
statutory obligations.
It also addresses the much litigated issue of enforcement of guarantees.
This part, the corporate debtors who want to themselves trigger insolvency will need shareholders
approval via special resolution.
Significance for Real Estate
This ordinance provides relief to home buyers by recognizing their status as financial creditors. Due
representation in the Committee of Creditors (CoC) makes them integral part of the decision-making
process. Section 7 of the law will allow financial creditors to file application seeking insolvency resolution
process. This is important because many home buyers are facing hardships on account of delayed and
incomplete real estate projects.
Jun, 07 2018
India’s Current Maternal Mortality Ratio is 130: Key Facts
The registrar general of India has released new data showing significant decline in maternal mortality
ratio of the country. The relevant facts and data are as follows:
Maternal Mortality and MMR
According to WHO, Maternal Mortality is death of a woman while pregnant or within 42 days of
termination of pregnancy, irrespective of the duration and site of the pregnancy, from any cause related to
or aggravated by the pregnancy or its management but not from accidental or incidental causes. Maternal
Mortality Rate is death of such women per 100,000 live births. Maternal and child mortality and morbidity
are taken as important health indicators because they reflect the state of female healthcare.
Global Maternal Mortality Rate
The global MMR for year 1990 was 385. In 2015, this number stood at 216, showing a drop of 44% in 25
years. Most of the global maternal deaths occur in Sub-Saharan Africa (66%), followed by South Asia (22%).
Maternal Mortality Rate in India and its states
In the 2011-13 period, India’s MMR was 167. As per the recently released data, the MMR during 2014-16
period stands at 130.

Among states, the three best and worst states and their respective MMR are shown below:
Significant decline (246 to 188) was seen in the so called Empowered Action Group (EAG) states
and Assam. EAG states are are those states where economic and development indicators are a
particular concern. Such states include Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha,
Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Uttar Pradesh.
Maternal Mortality Ratio is one of the important measures of the quality of safe deliveries and
maternal care and India has lagged behind China, Maldives and Sri Lanka in its neighborhood.
Public Credit Registry: New Information Repository to be set up by RBI
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that it will set up a Public Credit Registry (PCR) as a
repository of information regarding loanVineetinformation of individuals
Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | and corporate borrowers. This
decision has been taken as per recommendations of Y.M. Deosthalee committee set up by the central bank.
Y.M. Deosthalee Committee Recommendations
The Y.M. Deosthalee committee was set up by RBI and had submitted its report in April, 2018. The major
recommendations of this committee report are as follows:
RBI should set up a Public Credit Registry in due course and this should be backed by a legal
framework. The central bank may also consider moving such registry to a separate non-profit entity.
PCR will work as a repository of all loan contracts, duly verified by reporting institutions for all / any
lending in India, regardless of the amount of the loan.
PCR should also capture data such as external commercial borrowings, market borrowings, and all
contingent liabilities; and should provide an holistic picture about the borrower’s indebtedness.
The registry should capture both positive and negative information about all loans. The borrowers
should also be able to access their own history.
The PCR data should be available to all stakeholders such as banks on a need-to-know basis. There
should be adequate safeguards on privacy protection.
Onus of data quality should be on reporting agencies and institutions and action should be taken
against the institutions in case of any violations in rules.
The database should also be linked to defaulter databases such as those maintained by Export Credit
Guarantee Corp. of India, GST network etc.
RBI Action
On 6 June,2018, RBI has disclosed the plans to establish the PCR in modular and phased manner. This
registry will distinguish between bad borrowers and good borrowers and will offer interest rates
accordingly. It will help in improving access to credit, strengthen the credit culture and strengthen the
banking system because at present, the corporate borrowers lend from multiple banks without disclosing
their existing debt.
Jun, 08 2018
11th Geo-Intelligence Asia 2018 held in India
11th edition of Geo-Intelligence Asia 2018 was held at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi, India from 4-5
June 2018. The aim of the event was to provide platform to showcase innovative applications of Geospatial
technologies. It also aimed to provide platform for showcasing latest and updated technology to new and
existing users.
Key Facts
The event was organised by GeoSpatial Media and Communication with Directorate General of
Information System as Knowledge Partners and Military Survey as Co-organisers. Its theme was

‘GeoSpatial: A Force Multiplier for Defense and Internal Security’.

The seminar had brought together military, security officials including Border Security Force (BSF) and
Police Forces, Government and industry together to examine latest technology solutions and on critical
role of geospatial technology in military and security applications.
The sessions during seminar covered crucial subjects including GIS and logistics, enhanced situational
awareness for combat, cyber security, smart cantonments, and LIDAR. They also discussed latest
advancements in Geospatial technologies.
Andhra Pradesh: First state to use auto-disable syringes for all clinical purposes
Andhra Pradesh is set to become first state in India to use auto-disable syringes for all clinical purposes to
prevent infection. The state will enforce this decision from will from the World Hepatitis Day, observed
every year on July 28.
Auto Disable Syringe is medical syringe that cannot be reused. They incorporate mechanism to break or lock syringe
plunger when injection is given to make syringe inoperable for being used for second time.
Comment
Andhra Pradesh’s decision will ensure one injection will be given from one syringe by mandating universal
usage of auto-disable syringes in all clinical and therapeutic cases as part of infection prevention. It will
help in strengthening and lowering burdenVineet
of Singh
infections by breaking cycle of cross infection.
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Queen Pineapple declared as State Fruit of Tripura

President Ram Nath Kovind has declared Tripura’s queen variety pineapple as state fruit. Tripura is one of
the largest pineapple growing states in country. There are more than 100 commercial scale pineapple
plantations spread throughout the state.
Queen pineapple
Queen pineapple is spiny, golden yellow in colour. It has pleasant aroma and flavour. Its sweetness and
unique aroma differentiates it from pineapples of other states of Northeast region. It had received
Geographical Indication (GI) tag in 2015 and was helped by North Eastern Regional Agricultural
Marketing Corporation, a central public sector unit in getting it. APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food
Products Export Development Authority), an apex organisation under Ministry of Commerce and Industry
has helped export Kew variety of pineapples from Tripura to West Asia.
National Highway
President also dedicated 73.71km stretch of National Highway 8 (NH-8) from Mata Tripurasundari temple
in Udaipur of Gomati district to Sabroom in South Tripura.m The NH-8 connects Tripura with the rest of
the country via Assam and Meghalaya. The newly inaugurated stretch of highway extends it up to
southern Tripura’s border town Sabroom.
DAC approves Equipment Acquisition proposals for Defence forces
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman approved
proposal foe procurement of equipment for Defence Forces worth Rs. 5500 crore. These proposals were
approved in line with Government’s goal of indigenisation and self-reliance in field of Defence
Procurements. DAC is Defence Ministry’s highest decision-making body on capital procurement of Indian
Armed Forces (Army, Navy and Air Force).
Approved Proposals
12 High Power Radars: They will be procured for Indian Air Force under ‘Buy (Indian) IDDM’ category.
These technologically superior radars will provide long range medium and high altitude cover with
capability to detect and track high speed targets following parabolic trajectories. These radars have
capability to scan 360 degree without mechanical rotation of Antenna. They operate on 24×7 and require
minimal maintenance. Their procurement will enhance overall efficacy of Air Defence network in the
country.
Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs): They will be procured for Air Cushion Vehicles (ACVs) for Indian Coast
Guard (ICG) and Indian Army from Indian Shipyard. These vessels offer great advantage over conventional
boats and crafts as they have ability to travel at very high speeds over shallow water, sand banks, mud
flats and swamps which are non-navigable by boats and small crafts due to draught restrictions and

uncharted depths. These craft offer capability enhancement for Services. They will prove useful for
amphibious and riverine operations, especially where there is requirement to move men and material
from one island to another island, across riverine terrain, creeks etc.
Operation NISTAR: Indian Navy successfully evacuates 38 Indian Nationals from Yemen
Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sunayana successfully evacuated 38 Indian Nationals after it entered Porbandar
harbour in Gujarat. They were rescued from cyclone-hit Socotra island in Yemen under swift
Humanitarian and Disaster Relief Operation (HADR) code named Operation NISTAR.
Background
Indian Nationals were stranded for nearly 10 days after severe cyclonic storm Mekunu devastated area
around Socotra Island. Indian Navy deployed INS Sunayna from Gulf of Aden to Socotra Island for search
and rescue operations after it received distress call from Directorate General of Shipping and Indian
Sailing Vessels Association. The 38 Indian nationals were safely embarked onboard ship after they were
successfully rescued and evacuated. They were provided with medical care, food, water and telephone
facilities. INS Sunayana also undertook intensive surface search and aerial reconnaissance of area to look
for any more survivors.
Government extends timeline of Dam Rehabilitation & Improvement Project

The meeting of Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) has revised cost and deadline of World Bank funded
Dam Rehabilitation & Improvement Project (DRIP) to Rs.3466 Crore till June 2020. The meeting was held
under Chairpersonship of Secretary, Department of Expenditure to consider proposal of Ministry of Water
Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. It was attended by officials of Ministries of Power,
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare, Environment and Forest, NITI Aayog and officers of Central Water
Commission (CWC).
Dam Rehabilitation & Improvement Project (DRIP)
DRIP is a state sector scheme with central component to improve safety and operational performance of
selected dams, along with institutional strengthening with system wide management approach. The
project was launched in 2012 by Central Water Commission (CWC) under Ministry of Water Resources,
River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation with assistance from World Bank. Originally the scheme was
scheduled for six years with closure in June 2018 with total original cost of Rs. 2100 crore with state
component of Rs. 1968 crore and central component of Rs. 132 Crore.
Objectives of DRIP
Rehabilitation of old dams in country experiencing distress and are in need of attention for ensuring
their structural safety and operational efficiency.
Strengthening institutional capacity and project management in this area.
Bring greater awareness on dam safety issues and finding novel solutions to address them by
pooling best knowledge, technologies and experience available around world.
Jun, 09 2018
ICGS C 439: Interceptor ship commissioned by Indian Coast Guard
Indian Coast Guard (ICG) recently commissioned interceptor ship ICGS C 439 at Mumbai, Maharashtra. Its
induction will help to further enhance operational capabilities to undertake multifarious tasks such as
surveillance, interdiction, search and rescue and medical evacuations along western coast.
ICGS C 439
ICGS C 439 is designed by L&T Marine & Ship Design Division, an in-house facility of Larsen & Toubro

(L&T) Limited. It is 27.4 metres long and has 136 tonnes displacement capacity. It is powered by twin
water-jet propulsion systems to enable quick response. It can achieve maximum speed of 45 knots. It has
full aluminium-alloy hull for reduced weight. It is fitted with state-of-the-art navigation and
communication equipment and medium-range armament. It is designed to perform coastal surveillance,
search and rescue, anti-smuggling and anti-poaching operations in close coast low intensity maritime
operations. It will be under operational and administrative control of commander, Coast Guard District
Headquarters No.2 (Maharashtra), Mumbai.
Swachh Bharat Mission: Rural sanitation coverage crosses the 85% mark
According to Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation, rural sanitation coverage of India has risen to 85%
under Swachh Bharat Mission. Recent survey conducted by Independent Verification Agency across
90,000 households in over 6000 villages across the country has found usage of toilets in rural India to be
93.4%.
Key Facts
This sanitation coverage under Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen), is significant as it has increased more
than double since launch of mission. It has successfully built 7.4 crore toilets across rural India through
mobilization of rural communities. As result of it, over 3.8 lakh villages and 391 districts across the
country have been declared Open Defecation Free (ODF). Two independent surveys conducted in past by
Quality Council of India (QCI) in 2017 and National Sample Survey Organization (NSSO) in 2016 had
pegged usage of these toilets at 91% and 95% respectively.

Swachh Bharat Mission
SBM was launched in October 2014 to achieve universal sanitation coverage and to put focus on
sanitation. The mission aims to achieve Swachh Bharat or make India clean by 2019, as a fitting tribute to
150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. It world’s largest sanitation program that aimed bring
behavioural change of people with respect to toilet access and usage.
The SBM consists of two sub-missions Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), implemented in rural areas, and
Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), implemented in urban areas. SBM-G seeks to eliminate open defecation in
rural areas by improving access to sanitation by ensuring use of toilets, besides their construction. It also
seeks to generate awareness to motivate communities to adopt sustainable sanitation practices, and
encourage the use of appropriate technologies for sanitation.
Government to raise 5 Indian Reserve Police battalions in Jammu & Kashmir
The Central Government has decided to raise five Indian Reserve Police (IRP) battalions in Jammu and
Kashmir (J&K) with an aim to provide jobs to local youths. These battalions will have 60% reservation to
people from border areas of J&K.
Key Facts
The five IRP battalions in J&K will have over 5,000 personnel in which 60% reservation will be given to
people living in zero to 10 km range from the border. Besides, two female battalions comprising 1,000
women personnel will also be created. The women battalion will primarily deal with incidents like stone
pelting in Kashmir valley and other law and order duties. The cost of raising each battalion us around Rs
61 crore and 75% of it will be provided by central government. The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
deploys personnel of IRBs in their respective states but they can be deployed in other states too if there is
requirement. At present, there are 144 IRBs in various states. In addition, four IRBs each are being raised
in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, 12 in Maoist-hit states besides five battalions in J&K.
June 8: World Oceans Day
The World Oceans Day is being observed every year on 8th June to raise global awareness of current
challenges faced by the international community in connection with the oceans. The day also seeks to
provide unique opportunity to honour, protect, and conserve the world’s oceans. The focus of World
Oceans Day 2018 is on ‘Peventing plastic pollution and encouraging solutions for a healthy ocean’. It also
coincided with theme of World Environment Day 2018-‘Beat Plastic Pollution’.
Background
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had designated 8 June as the World Oceans Day in 2008 by
passing its resolution 63/111. Prior to it was unofficially celebrated every 8 June. In 1992, Canada had

prosed celebration of this day at Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Since 2003, the day has been
coordinated by The Ocean Project.
Dhanush artillery gun clears final test, ready for induction
India’s first indigenous, long-range artillery gun Dhanush has successfully passed its final test at Pokhran,
Rajasthan. This paves its way for induction into Indian Army. Earlier the gun had passed tests under
severe cold conditions in Sikkim and Leh and in hot and humid weather in Balasore, Odisha, Babina in
Jhansi.
Indian Army has so far not inducted any new artillery guns since Bofors guns. It has placed an initial order
for 114 Dhanush guns and is expected to order another 400 more.
Dhanush artillery gun
Dhanush is a 155mm x 45mm calibre artillery gun. It has been developed by Ordnance Factory Board
(OFB), Kolkata based on requirements of Indian Army and manufactured by Jabalpur-based Gun Carriage
Factory (GCF). It is upgraded version of Swedish 155-mm Bofors howitzers, which India procured in the
mid-1980s, based on its original designs. So, it is also called desi Bofors.
It has strike range of 40 kilometres (11 km more than the imported Bofors guns) with accuracy and
precision.Its 81% components are indigenously sourced and it will be scaled up to 90% by 2019. Each of
this gun costs about Rs 14.50 crore while each shell costs Rs. 1 lakh. It provides greater fire power,
depending on the type of ammunition used.Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
It also has night firing capability in direct fire mode. Its armament system comprises a barrel, muzzle
brake, breech mechanism and recoil mechanism to fire 155 mm calibre ammunitions. It has several
significant advance features, including an all-electric drive, high mobility, quick deployability, auxiliary
power mode, advanced communication system and automated command and control system. It has six
round magazine, instead of a standard three round one. It weighs slightly more than normal due to the
larger chamber.
FDI in India rises to US $61.96 billion in 2017-18: DIPP
According to Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion (DIPP), foreign direct investment (FDI) in India
increased to US $61.96 billion in 2017-18. FDI inflow in previous fiscal was US $60 billion. In last four years
perod, FDI inflows has jumped to US 4222.75 billion from US $152 billion.
Key Facts
The main sectors that received maximum FDI were services, computer software and hardware,
telecommunications, construction, trading and automobile. Major sources of FDI to Indian included
Mauritius, Singapore, Japan, Netherlands, US, Germany, France and UAE.
However, according to recent UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) report,
FDI to India decreased to US $40 billion in 2017 from US $44 billion in 2016, while outflows from India, the
main source of investment in South Asia, has doubled.
Background
Foreign investments including FDI are considered crucial for India as it needs around $1 trillion for
overhauling its infrastructure sector such as ports, airports and highways to boost growth. Strong inflow
of foreign investments mainly helps to improve the country’s balance of payments (BoP) situation and also
strengthen the rupee value against other global currencies, especially dominant US dollar. To attract
inflow of foreign investments, the central government has announced several measures including
liberalisation of FDI policy and improvement in business climate.
5 countries elected as non-permanent members of UNSC
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) elected South Africa, Indonesia, Dominican Republic, Germany
and Belgium as non-permanent members of UN Security Council (UNSC). They will have two-year term
beginning January 1, 2019.
These five non-permanent members were elected according to the following pattern
Two seats for Group of African states and Group of Asia-Pacific states,
One for the Group of Latin American and Caribbean states
Two seats for Western European and other states.
UN Security Council (UNSC)

UNSC is most powerful and one of the six principal organs United Nations. Under UN Charter it has
primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. It has 15 members,
including five permanent ones with the power of veto. The five permanent members are China, France,
Russia, UK and US. 10 non-permanent members are elected for two-year terms each. Its powers include
establishment of peacekeeping operations, establishment of international sanctions, and authorization of
military action through UNSC resolutions. It is only UN body with authority to issue binding resolutions
to member states.
Functions of UNSC
UNSC is responsible for determining existence of threat against peace and to respond to act of aggression.
It is also responsible for finding peaceful means to settle conflict or dispute between states. In some cases,
it resorts to sanctions or even authorise use of force to maintain or restore international peace and
security. It also recommends to UNGA appointment of UN Secretary General and admission of new
members to the UN.
Berne Convention: India submits declaration
World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) has notified declaration submitted by Indian relating to
Article II and III of Appendix to Paris Act (1971) related to Berne Convention for Protection of Literary and
Artistic Works. The declaration will enter into force, with respect to India from March 28, 2018. It will
enable India to avail itself faculties provided for Article II and III of the Appendix to Berne Convention
during 10 years period that will expire, on October 10, 2024.
Key Facts
India has been member of Berne Convention since April 1928. It has been submitting declaration as per
Article II and III of Appendix from time to time. The present notification is in continuation of India’s
earlier position.
Article II of Appendix: It will enable India to substitute for exclusive right of translation of work, which
has been published in printed or analogous forms of reproduction granted by competent authority only
for purpose of teaching, research or scholarship.
Article III of Appendix: It will enable India to substitute for exclusive right of reproduction of literally
work, published either in printed or analogous forms of reproduction or in audio-visual form of lawfully
made audio-visual fixations, to publish edition which has not been distributed on sale for period of 6
months, except when either translations is not published by owner of right of translation or with his
authorization, or when translation is not in language general in use in India.
Berne Convention
Berne Convention for the Protection of Literary and Artistic Works (Berne Convention) is international
copyright agreement that mandates equal treatment of copyrighted works by signatories, known as Berne
Union. It was adopted in 1886 in Berne, Switzerland. The convention requires signatory member countries
to recognize copyrighted literary or artistic works in same way that its national copyrights are
recognized.
Under it, all works (except cinematography and photography) are copyrighted for minimum 50 years term
after death of author, but longer terms may be provided related parties. It also allows signatories to apply
fair use of copyrighted works in other broadcasts or publications, as reflected in WIPO Copyright Treaty,
1996.
Global Peace Index 2018: India ranks 136th
India was ranked 136th among 163 countries in Global Peace Index 2018 that was released by Sydney-
based think tank Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). In Last year’s index, India was ranked 137th.
2018 GPI was twelfth edition of index since it was launched in 2006. Iceland was ranked most peaceful
country in the world and it managed to retain its position since 2008.
Global Peace Index (GPI)
GPI ranks 163 independent states and territories every year according to their level of peacefulness. It is
considered as one of the most comprehensive analysis that captures trends in peace, its economic value,
and how to develop peaceful societies. The multifaceted index uses 23 qualitative and quantitative
indicators to measure state of peace using three thematic domains: level of societal safety and security;
extent of ongoing domestic and international conflict; and degree of militarisation. It also uses various
parameters like the homicide rate, ease of access to weapons, impact of terrorism and number of armed
services personnel in population.
Salient highlights
Top 10 Peaceful Countries in 2018 GPI: Iceland (1), New Zealand (2), Austria (3), Potugal (4), Denmark (5),
Canada (6), Czech Republic (7), Singapore (8), Japan (9) and Ireland (10).
Top 10 Least Peaceful Countries: Syria (163), Afghanistan (162), South Sudan (161), Iraq (160), Somalia (159),
Yemen (158), Libya (157), Democratic Republic of Congo (156), Central African Republic (155) and Russia
(154).
The index has covered 99.7% of the world’s population.
Global peacefulness: The average level of global peacefulness has deteriorated by 2.38% since 2008. Over
that period, 85 countries deteriorated, while 75 improved. 71 countries were more peaceful in 2018 than
2018. 92 countries were less peaceful in 2018 than in 2017. The global GPI average deteriorated 0.27% from
2017 to 2018.
Regional Peacefulness: Four most peaceful regions according to GPI 2018 are Europe, North America,
Asia-Pacific, and South America. However, all these regions recorded deteriorations. Europe remains most
peaceful region in the world. The combined Middle East and North Africa was the least peaceful region in
the world.
Global economic impact of violence: It was $14.76 trillion PPP in 2017, equivalent to 12.4% of global GDP,
or $1,988 per person. It has increased by 16% since 2012, corresponding with start of the Syrian war and
rising violence in the aftermath of Arab Spring. In the last 70 years, per capita GDP growth has been three
times higher in highly peaceful countries.
South Asia: The region experienced largest regional improvement in peacefulness. Bhutan (19), Sri Lanka
(67), Nepal (84), Bangladesh (93) and Pakistan (151).
Jun, 10 2018
Friendship Medal: China awards its first highest state honour to Russian President Vladimir Putin
China awarded its first highest state honour Friendship Medal to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The
award was personally bestowed on Vladimir Putin by Chinese President Xi Jinping in grand ceremony
held at Great Hall of the People in capital city of Beijing.
Key Facts
This was first time China has awarded medal since it was established in 2015. Friendship Medal is
conferred by China only on foreigner who has made outstanding contributions in promoting exchange
and cooperation between China and world, and in maintaining world peace. Russian President Vladimir
Putin was presented this award during his official state visit to China, which will include attending 18th
Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit at Qingdao.
Comment
China and Russia had been cooperating since late 1990s as they responded to quite similar pressures from
West. For China, Russia always had been its best friend and for Russia, China is strategic partner. In
December 2017, US labelled both countries strategic rivals that challenge US interests and values. China is
currently locked in ongoing trade dispute with the US, which has also imposed tough sanctions on Russia.
Both China and Russia have no choice but to increase cooperation so they can jointly deal with US if it
increases pressure on both countries. The award to Russia’s most powerful leader Vladimir Putin is
considered as clear sign that both countries were growing closer amid increasing pressure from US. It is
also reflection of the special relationship that has existed for few decades.
Government appoints S Ramesh as Chairman of CBIC
The Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) has appointed S Ramesh, member of Central Board of
Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) as its next Chairman. He will succeed present chairman Vanaja N.
Sarna who retires in June 2018.
Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC)
CBIC is the nodal national agency responsible for administering Customs, GST, Central Excise, Service
Tax & Narcotics in India. It is part of the Department of Revenue under Union Ministry of Finance. It is

headquartered in New Delhi.

It is one of the oldest government departments of India (established in 1855 by the then British Governor
General of India, to administer customs laws in India and collection of import duties / land revenue). It was
renamed to present name from Central Board of Excise & Customs (CBEC) in March 2017.
CBIC deals with tasks of formulation of policy concerning levy and collection of customs and central
excise duties and service tax, prevention of smuggling and administration of matters relating to customs,
central excise, service tax and narcotics. It is administrative authority for its subordinate organizations,
including Central Excise and Service Tax Commissionerates, Custom Houses and Central Revenues
Control Laboratory.
India, China ink 2 MoUs on sharing of Brahmaputra river data and supply of non-Basmati rice
India and China have signed two Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs) related to sharing of
Brahmaputra river data and supply of non-Basmati rice. These MoUs were signed after Prime Minister
Narendra Modi held detailed discussions with Chinese President Xi Jinping on bilateral and global issues
to take forward agenda set at informal Wuhan Summit of April 2018. The two leaders discussed
implementation of Wuhan consensus and drawing up blueprint for future India-China relations. This was
14th meeting between two leaders over past 4 years.
Key Facts
MoU on sharing of Brahmaputra river data: Under it, China will provide India hydrological data of the
Brahmaputra River in flood season crucial to predict floods. It was signed between China’s Ministry of
Water Resources and India’s Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation.
The agreement will enable China to provide hydrological data in flood season from May 15 to October 15
every year. It will also enable China to provide hydrological data if water level exceeds mutually agreed
level during non-flood season.
Background
Brahmaputra is one of the major rivers in China originating from Tibet. From Tibet it flows down to India
and later enters Bangladesh where it joins the Ganga. China as an upstream country shares scientific
study of movement, distribution and quality of water data for Brahmaputra River. In 2017, China had
stopped sharing data soon after 73-day long stand-off between Indian and Chinese troops at Dokalam over
Chinese military’s plans to build road close to India’s Chicken Neck corridor connecting North-Eastern
states.
MoU on Phytosanitary requirements: It was signed between China’s General Administration of Customs
and India’s Department of Agriculture, Cooperation and Farmers Welfare. It is related to Phytosanitary
requirements for exporting rice from India to China, one of the world’s biggest rice markets. It amends
2006 Protocol on Phytosanitary Requirements for Exporting Rice from India to China to include the
export of non-Basmati varieties of rice from India. At present, India can only export Basmati rice to China.
Significance
The MoU on non-Basmati rice may help in addressing India’s concerns over ballooning trade deficit with
China to a certain extent. Trade deficit of India with China stood at US $36.73 billion during April-October
2017. India’s trade deficit with China has marginally dipped to US $51 billion in 2016-17 from US $52.69
billion in 2015-16 fiscal. China has been promising to address issue of trade deficit with India which has
been seeking greater market access for its goods and services in China.
Malabar 2018: India, Japan and US start naval exercise off coast of Guam Island in western Pacific
Trilateral Naval Exercise Malabar 2018 between India, Japan and United States kicked off the coast of
Guam in Philippine Sea. It will be 22nd edition of the naval exercise, which has now become an annual
feature in deep military ties between India and US. It will be first naval wargame after US renamed its
Hawaii-based Pacific command (PACOM) as Indo-Pacific Command (INDOPACOM) amid increased
Chinese activities of building artificial islands in South China Sea and sending submarines into Indian
Ocean.
Key Facts
This edition of annual exercise will focus on high-end war fighting skillsets, subject matter expert and
professional exchanges. It will also include combined carrier strike group operations, surface and anti-
submarine warfare, medical operations, maritime patrol and reconnaissance operations, damage control,
helicopter operations and visit, board, search and seizure operations.
Phases: Malabar 2018 will be conducted in two phases: ashore and at-sea training. The harbour phrase will
take place at Naval Base Guam and sea phase in Philippine Sea.
The ashore phase in Guam will include subject matter expert and professional exchanges on carrier strike
group operations, reconnaissance operations, maritime patrol, surface and anti-submarine warfare,
medical operations, damage control, helicopter operations and visit, board, search and seizure (VBSS)
operations.
The sea phase will see military-to-military coordination and capacity to plan and execute tactical
operations between three navies in multinational environment. It will also see events like gunnery
exercises, anti-submarine warfare, air defence exercises, surface warfare exercises, helicopter cross-deck
evolutions and underway replenishments.
Participation: US Navy has deployed aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan, guided-missile cruisers USS
Antietam and USS Chancellorsville, guided-missile destroyer USS Benfold and P-8A Poseidon aircraft.
Indian Navy has deployed INS Kamorta, the first of four anti-submarine Kamorta-class stealth corvettes;
INS Sahyadri, Shivalik-class stealth multi-role frigate, Deepak-class fleet tanker INS Shakti and also P-8I
Neptune advanced maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare
Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | aircraft. Japan Maritime Self Defense
Force (JMSDF) has deployed three ships 19,000-tonne JS Hyuga (lead ship of Hyuga-class of helicopter
carriers), Takanami-class guided-missile/ASW destroyer JS Suzunami, Akizuki-class guided-missile
destroyer JS Fuyuzuki and diesel-electric attack submarine and Kawasaki P-1 maritime patrol aircraft..
Background
The Malabar exercise was started in 1992 as joint Indo-US naval drill. Since then it is held annually.But it
was suspended from 1998 to 2002 after India conducted nuclear weapons tests in 1998. Japan became
permanent participant in 2015.
The primary aim of this multilateral exercise is to increase interoperability amongst navies of three
countries and develop common understanding of procedures for Maritime Security Operations and
deepen defence relations between them.
In 2007, the exercise also saw participation of Australia and Singapore. All the participating nations in the
exercise have clarified earlier that Malabar series of exercise is not aimed against specific country Since
last two years, Australia repeatedly requested to be part of annual exercise but India again refused after
China raised is concerns.
Qingdao declaration: SCO summit adopts declaration calling for 3-year plan to combat terrorism
The 18th Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit concluded with the adoption of the Qingdao
declaration. It was adopted by leaders of China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan,
India (represented by Prime Minister Narendra Modi) and Pakistan. It was India and Pakistan’s first
summit as full members of SCO grouping.
Key Facts
The Qingdao declaration calls for implementing three-year plan to combat terrorism, separatism and
extremism. It also calls for implementation of treaty on long-term good neighbourliness, friendship and
co-operation. SCO participating leaders also adopted total of 17 documents at the summit, which
particularly include documents endorsing 2018-2022 Action Plan to implement Treaty for Long-term
Good-Neighborly Relations, Friendship and Cooperation between SCO states and 2019-2020 Program for
Cooperation in countering terrorism, separatism and extremism. They also signed decision to approve
2018-2023 Anti-Drug Strategy and Action Plan to implement it. Besides, leaders of all SCO countries also
signed an information statement.
India’s Participation
India refused to endorse China’s ambitious One Belt, One Road (OBOR) project as part of Qingdao
Declaration at the 18th SCO summit. At the restricted session of the SCO Summit, Indian Prime Minister
Modi floated concept of SECURE: ‘S’ for security for citizens, ‘E’ for economic development, ‘C’ for
connectivity in the region, ‘U’ for unity, ‘R’ for respect of sovereignty and integrity, and ‘E for environment

protection.
Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO)
SCO is a Eurasian economic, political and security organisation headquartered in Beijing, China. The
Declaration on establishment of SCO was singed in Shanghai (China) in June 2001 by six founding states –
Russia, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
The groupings main objective is military cooperation between members. It also works towards
intelligence-sharing, counter-terrorism operations in Central Asia. It is primarily centred on its member
nations’ Central Asian security-related concerns, often describing main threats it confronts as being
terrorism, separatism and extremism.
The full members of the organization are China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan,
India and Pakistan. India and Pakistan were granted SCO membership in June 2017. Afghanistan, Belarus,
Iran and Mongolia currently enjoy observer status of SCO. Sri Lanka, Turkey, Azerbaijan, Armenia,
Cambodia and Nepal are dialogue partners of SCO.
Jun, 11 2018
India’s Sunil Chhetri becomes joint second highest international goal scorer
India’s talismanic football team captain Sunil Chhetri (33) became joint second highest international goal
scorer among active players along with Argentine superstar footballer Lionel Messi. He achieved this feat
after he scored his 64th goal in match between
Vineet SinghIndia and Kenya
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | in Intercontinental Cup summit clash in
Mumbai, Maharashtra. In this match, Chhetri scored two goals.
Sunil Chhetri’s performance
It was Chhetri’s 102nd international match, making him only the second Indian to feature in 100
international matches after former skipper Bhaichung Bhutia. In terms of goals scored, he and Messi are
behind Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo who has 81 goals on his name from 150 matches.
Chhetri and Messi are currently in joint 21st position in all-time list of goal scorers. Chhetri is just one goal
below former Chelsea FC and Ivory Coast footballer Didier Drogba (65 from 104 matches). In terms of
number of goals per match, Chhetri is better than Meesi (who is currently considered as best player in the
football world). Chhetri has scored 0.62 goals per match as against 0.52 of Messi (64 goals from 124
matches). He is also better goal average than Cristiano Ronaldo (0.54 per match).
Mauritius to host 11th World Hindi Conference
Mauritius is going to host 11th World Hindi Conference (विश्व हिंदी सम्मेलन) in its capital city
Port Lois from August 18-20, 2018. It will be organised by Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government
of India in association with Government of Mauritius. The theme of the Conference will be “Vaishvik Hindi
Aur Bharatiy Sanskriti“.
Key Facts
The conference is aimed at providing common platform to several Hindi scholars, writers and laureates
from different parts of the world to contribute the language. Its venue will be Swami Vivekanand
International Convention Centre, Pailles Mauritius. The conference will cover both classical and modern
elements of Hindi and will see participation delegates and scholars of Hindi from all over the world.
World Hindi Conference
The World Hindi Conference is major event organised every three years by MEA to increase the popularity
of Hindi globally. The first conference was held from 10 to 12 January 1975 in Nagpur, Maharashtra and
was inaugurated by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Since then, ten such Conferences have been held
in different parts of world. In the first conference, then Prime Minister of Mauritius Seewoosagur
Ramgoolam was Chief Guest and it was attended by 122 delegates from 30 countries. In remembrance of
the first conference, every year 10th January is being observed as World Hindi Day. The 10 edition of
World Hindi Conference was held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (India) in 2015 with the theme of “Hindi
Jagat-Vistar and Sambhavnaye”.
Arvind Saxena appointed as acting Chairman of UPSC
Government has appointed Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) member Arvind Saxena as the acting
Chairman of the commission. He will perform the duties of chairman of UPSC with effect from 20 June
2018 till further orders or till completion of his tenure in August, 2020. He will take over charge from

incumbent Vinay Mittal who completes his term.

Arvind Saxena is 1978-batch Indian Postal Service officer. He was appointed as member of UPSC in May,
2015 after he completed his stint in Aviation Research Centre (ARC). He has previously worked in Research
and Analysis Wing (RAW) after he joined it in 1988. He is specialised in study of strategic developments in
neighbouring countries.
Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
UPSC is constitutional body that conducts prestigious civil services examination for Indian
Administrative Service (IAS), Indian Foreign Service (IFS) and Indian Police Service (IPS) and others. It has
been established under Article 315 of the Constitution of India. It consists of Chairman and ten Members,
who are appointed and removed by President. The chairman and members of the Commission hold office
for term of six years or until they attain age of 65 years, whichever is earlier. Article 316 of Constitution
deals with appointment and term of office of members.
Former NIA chief Sharad Kumar appointed vigilance commissioner in CVC
President Ram Nath Kovind has appointed former National Investigation Agency (NIA) chief Sharad
Kumar (62) as vigilance commissioner in Central Vigilance Commission (CVC). He will have term of four
years or till he attains the age of 65. Sharad Kumar was IPS officer 1979-batch from Haryana cadre. He had
retired in September 2017 after heading NIA for over four years.
Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
CVC is an apex probity watchdog of Union Government formed to address governmental corruption. It
was set up by Central Government in February 1964 on the recommendations of K. Santhanam Committee
on Prevention of Corruption. It has status of statutory autonomous body and free of control from any
executive authority as per the provisions of Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) Act, 2003.
Functions: It monitors all vigilance activity under Union Government and advises various authorities in
Union Government organizations in planning, executing, reviewing and reforming their vigilance work.
Union Government has authorized CVC as “Designated Agency” to receive written complaints for
disclosure on any allegation of corruption or misuse of office and recommend appropriate action.
Composition: CVC is headed by Central Vigilance Commissioner and has two Vigilance Commissioners.
They are appointed by President on recommendations of select committee comprising of Prime Minister
as Chairperson, Union Minister of Home Affairs and Leader of second largest party in Lok Sabha or
majority group leader in parliament.
CSIR lab to give technology for India’s first indigenous Lithium Ion Battery project
Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) lab has signed Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) with
RAASI Solar Power Pvt Ltd for transfer of technology for India’s first Lithium Ion (Li-ion) Battery project.
The agreement was signed by CSIR’s Central Electro Chemical Research Institute (CECRI), Karaikudi,
Tamil Nadu.
Key Facts
CSIR-CECRI has developed indigenous technology of Lithium-ion cells in partnership with other sister
CSIR labs. It has secured globally recognised patent for this technology. The indigenous Lithium-ion cells
technology has potential to enable cost reduction, coupled with appropriate supply chain and
manufacturing technology for mass production. Under the singed MoA, Raasi Group will set up Lithium-
ion cells manufacturing facility in Krishnagiri district of Tamil Nadu close to Bangalore.
Li-Ion battery
Lithium-ion battery is type of rechargeable battery that contains several cells. Each cell consists of
cathode, anode and electrolyte, separator between electrodes and current collectors. In it, lithium ions
move from negative electrode to positive electrode during discharge and back when charging. Li-ion
battery use intercalated lithium compound as one electrode material.
Benefits of Li-Ion battery
It is light weighted and is one-third the weight of lead acid batteries. It is nearly 100% efficient in both
charging and discharging as compared to lead battery which has 70% efficiency. It completely discharges
i.e. 100% as compared to 80% for lead acid. It has life cycle of 5000 times or more compared to just
400-500 cycles in lead acid.

It also maintains constant voltage throughout entire discharge cycle whereas voltage in lead acid battery
drops consistently throughout its discharge cycle. It is much cleaner technology and is safer for
environment as it does not have environmental impact as lead acid battery. It can power any electrical
application without the need of physical wires-means wireless.
WHO commends India for reducing maternal mortality ratio by 77%
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has commended India’s progress in reducing maternal mortality
ratio (MMR) by 77%, from 556 per 10000 live births in 1990 to 130 per 10000 live births in 2016. This
progress puts India on track towards achieving Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target of MMR below
70 by 2030. India’s present MMR is below Millennium Development Goal (MDG) target.
Key Facts
India has made concerted push to increase access to quality maternal health services with coverage of
essential maternal health services which has doubled since 2005. Proportion of institutional deliveries in
public facilities has almost tripled, from 18% in 2005 to 52% in 2016 (including private facilities,
institutional deliveries).
State-subsidised demand-side financing like Janani Shishu Suraksha Karyakram (JSSK) has largely closed
urban-rural divide traditionally seen in institutional births. JSSK also allows all pregnant women
delivering in public health institutions free transport and no-expense delivery, including caesarian
section. Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Government has put significant emphasis on mitigating social determinants of maternal health. Women
in India are now more literate than ever, with 68% are now able to read and write. They are also entering
marriage at older age, with just 27% now wedded before age of 18. These factors have enabled Indian
women to better control their reproductive lives and make decisions that reflect their own interests and
wants.
Moreover, Government also has put in substantive efforts to facilitate positive engagement between
public and private health care providers. Public campaigns such as Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva
Abhiyan have been introduced with great impact, allowing women access to antenatal check-ups,
obstetric gynecologists and to track high-risk pregnancies.
Nipah virus: Kerala lifts high alert; schools to reopen
Kerala Government has decided to lift high alert issued in the wake of outbreak of deadly Nipah virus in
May 2018 in northern Kozhikode and Malappuram districts of state that has so far claimed 17 lives. The
outbreak of virus has been brought under control and its spread checked as no positive case has been
reported. Restrictions for the public gatherings of people also have been relaxed. It also has decided to
reopen educational institutions, schools and professional colleges, which was postponed due to the virus
outbreak.
Nipah Virus (NiV) Infection
Nipah virus (NiV) infection is zoonotic disease (disease transmitted to humans from animals) that causes
severe disease in both animals and humans. The organism which causes Nipah Virus encephalitis is RNA
or Ribonucleic acid virus of family Paramyxoviridae, genus Henipavirus, and is closely related to Hendra
virus.
Origin: It was first identified in 1999 during outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia and Singapore. It
gets its name from Sungai Nipah, a Malaysian village, where pig farmers became ill with encephalitis. In
these subsequent outbreaks, there were no intermediate hosts of the virus. In Bangladesh in 2004,
humans got infected after consuming date palm sap that had been contaminated by infected fruit bats.
Natural Host: Fruit bats of the Pteropodidae Family, Pteropus genus are natural host of the virus. The
virus is present in bat urine and potentially, bat faeces, saliva, and birthing fluids. Presumably, first
incidence of NiV infection occurred when pigs in Malaysian farms came in contact with fruit bats who had
lost their habitats due to deforestation.
Transmission: The virus spreads fast and is mostly fatal. Infected bats shed virus in their excretion and
secretion. The virus cannot be transmitted through air. But it is transmitted through direct contact with
infected bats, pigs. Human to Human transmission from other NiV-infected people is also reported.

Signs & Symptoms: NiV infection in humans has range of clinical presentations i.e., from
asymptomatic infection to acute respitatory syndrome and fatal encephalitis (inflammation of
brain). After exposure and incubation period of 5 to 14 days, illness presents with 3-4 days of fever
and headache, followed by drowsiness, disorientation and mental confusion. These signs and
symptoms can progress to coma within 24 to 48 hours. The mortality rate of patients infected
with NiV infection is reportedly 70%. It is capable of causing diseases in domestic animals too.
Treatment: There is no vaccine for NiV disease either for humans or animals. The main treatment
for those infected is intensive supportive care and supportive medicines. NiV Infection can be
prevented by avoiding exposure of infected people without protective gear. In disease prone areas,
fruits strewn on the ground should not be eaten, for safety.
Government launches Rail Madad app to expedite and streamline passenger grievance redressal
The Union Ministry of Railways has launched Rail MADAD (Mobile Application for Desired Assistance
During travel) Application to expedite and streamline passenger grievance redressal. The application was
launched inline with Union Government’s Digital India Initative.
Rail Madad app
The app for the first time completely digitized the Complaint management system. It integrates
RPGRAMS (Railway Passenger Grievance Redressal and Management System) developed by Northern
Railway (Delhi Division).
It registers complaint of passengers with minimum inputs. It also has option of photo and issues unique
ID instantly. It relays complaint online to relevant field officials for immediate action. The action taken on
complaint is also relayed to passenger through SMS.
It also displays various helpline numbers (e.g., Security, Child helpline etc) and provides direct calling
facility for immediate assistance in one easy step. It integrates all modes of filing complaints including

offline and online modes on single platform.

It presents holistic picture of weak and deficient areas and enable focused corrective action by officials
concerned. It also aids in data analysis of reports to generate trends on various performance parameters
of selected train and stations like cleanliness, amenities etc to make managerial process more precise and
effective.
2nd India-US colloquium on Earth Observations & Sciences for Society, Economy inaugurated
The second edition India-US colloquium on Earth Observations and Sciences for Society and Economy was
inaugurated at CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO), Dona Paula, Goa. The colloquium is
being organised by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research)-
NIO and US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Key Facts
The colloquium multi-disciplinary event will bring together 200 delegates from India and US to address
emerging ocean and earth science issues. It will help both countries to improve ocean and atmosphere
observations that contribute to economic well-being of both nations through better weather, climate, and
ocean prediction, as well as fisheries management.
India mulls new group of 8-10 countries in WTO
India is considering bringing together group of 8-10 member countries of World Trade Organisation
(WTO) to prepare agenda for creation of conducive atmosphere| to ensure smooth functioning of the global
Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com
trade body.
Key Facts
It would be an informal group within WTO, which may also include nations like Brazil, China, South Africa,
China, Indonesia and Columbia. The main idea behind this group is to create proper structured agenda
which will be acceptable to all countries to reduce tension. Its main objective is to create conducive
atmosphere so that global trading system works well. From India, Union Commerce Ministry will be
discussing issue internally and work on structure of the group.
Significance
The initiative assumes significance as trade tensions have escalated after United States had imposed high
customs duties on certain steel and aluminium products. Other WTO members too have retaliated, which
is leading to trade war-like situation. In trade wars, countries try to restrict imports by resorting to tariff
and non-tax related barriers. Increase in customs duties on product makes that item less competitive in
importing nation.
Background
The talks at WTO’s 11th Ministerial Conference held in Argentina in December 2017 had collapsed after US
went back on its commitment to find permanent solution to public food stockholding issue, a key matter
for India. Following collapse of WTO ministerial talks in Argentina in December 2017, India had organised
mini-ministerial meeting of about 45 WTO members in March 2018 to revitalise multi-lateral trade body.
The objective of meeting was to initiate free and frank discussion on various key issues and challenges
facing Geneva-based WTO.
World Trade Organisation (WTO)
WTO is an inter-governmental organization for governments to negotiate global trade agreements and
progressively liberalizing trade. It operates system of trade rules that apply to all its members. It is also a
place for Member governments to settle their trade disputes. Its headquarters are located in Geneva,
Switzerland. It was established on 1 January 1995 and its official languages are English, French and
Spanish.
Jun, 12 2018
IRCTC inks MoU with CSC for delivery of rail tickets
The Common Service Centres (CSCs) Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) has signed Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) for delivery of
railway services through CSC centres. This will allow CSCs to work as IRCTC agents for train ticket
bookings.
Key Facts
CSCs will now be able to book general tickets. Under the agreement, all 2.9 lakh CSCs spread across the

country will be able to book both reserved and unreserved train tickets. All CSCs will be connected with
technology for railway ticket booking.
Moreover, Government is planning to empower CSCs to act as banking correspondents and to sell
insurance too in the future. It is also pushing private sector participation in providing digital services
through these platforms. Thus, these centres apart from providing digital literacy will provide services
like Aadhaar payments, pension, banking, and insurance.
Common Service Centres (CSC)
CSC is an initiative of Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY). It is strategic cornerstone of Digital India
programme. It is pan-India network catering to regional, geographic, linguistic and cultural diversity of
country, thus enabling Government’s mandate of a socially, financially and digitally inclusive society.
There are as many as 2.91 lakh CSCs operate in the country today. They are mostly ICT enabled front end
service delivery points at village level for delivery of government and private services. These CSCs serve
as access points for delivery of essential public utility services, social welfare schemes, financial,
healthcare, education and agriculture services, apart from host of B2C services to citizens in rural and
remote areas of the country. They also serve as change agents by promoting rural entrepreneurship and
building rural capacities and livelihoods.
India to host first BIMSTEC military exercise
India will host first military exercise of the Vineet
BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical
and Economic Cooperation) Countries in September 2018 in Pune, Maharashtra. The theme of the exercise
includes counter-terrorism in semi-urban terrain and cordon and search.
Key Facts
The main aim of this military exercise is to promote strategic alignment among the member-states and to
share best practices in the area of counter-terrorism. Each participating member country will bring in
some 30 soldiers. As part of this exercise, a conclave of Army chiefs of all seven member-states is being
planned. In it, the chiefs will debate challenge of terrorism and transnational crime, which is major
concern among all states and on how they can promote collective cooperation. BIMSTEC countries had
held disaster management exercise in 2017 in New Delhi, but this will be first military exercise of the
grouping.
BIMSTEC
BIMSTEC is the sub-regional group of seven countries in South Asia and South East Asia lying in littoral
and adjacent areas of Bay of Bengal constituting contiguous regional unity. It was established on 6 June
1997 through Bangkok Declaration. It is headquartered in Dhaka, Bangladesh.
Member countries: India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka from South Asia and Myanmar, Thailand
from South East Asia. They are collectively home to around 1.5 billion people which constitute around 22%
of global population.
BIMESTC’s prime objectives: Technological and economic cooperation among south Asian and south East
Asian countries along the coast of the Bay of Bengal. BIMSTEC is sector-driven cooperative organization,
starting with six sector including trade, technology, energy, transport, tourism and fisheries. In 2008, it
was expanded to embrace eight more sectors including agriculture, public health, poverty alleviation,
counter-terrorism, environment, culture, people to people contact and climate change.
Credit Enhancement Fund: Government to launch Rs.500 crore fund
Union Government is going to launch Rs.500 crore Credit Enhancement Fund (CEF) in July 2018 to
facilitate infrastructure investments by insurance and pension funds.
The CEF provides additional source of assaurance or gaurantee that borrower will service their loan. It
also helps borrower to raise loans at lower interest rates. The fund was first announced in Union Budget
for fiscal year 2016-17.
Credit Enhancement Fund (CEF)
CEF will provide credit enhancement for infrastructure projects which will help in upgrading credit
ratings of bonds issued by infrastructure companies and facilitate investment from investors like pension
and insurance funds.
The initial corpus of the fund will be Rs 500 crore and will be sponsored by IIFCL (India Infrastructure

Finance Company). It will operate as a non-banking finance company (NBFC). IIFCL will hold 22.5% stake in
the NBFC, while Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has been offered by the Government to pick
up 10% stake.
Background
At present, only $110 billion is being invested in infrastructure in India, against requirement of $200
billion, leading many analysts to classify India as infrastructure deficit country. Most of the present
infrastructure project financing is done by banking system. But all these lenders are saddled with problem
of non-performing assets (NPAs). So there is need for the private sector to be more active on the
infrastructure investment front. CEF will serve as alternative for rising of money for infrastructure
projects through corporate bonds.
Nepal-Bharat Maitri Irrigation Project: India gives cheque to Nepal
India extended financial aid of Rs. 99 million to Nepal for the construction of 2,700 shallow tube well
(STWs) irrigation systems in 12 districts of southern Terai region to boost agricultural productivity. The
assistance was extended as part of final payment for Nepal-Bharat Maitri Irrigation Project. With this
payment, India has released so far released total of 227.6 million Nepali rupees to Nepal for implementing
this project.
Nepal-Bharat Maitri Irrigation Project
The project was launched in January 2017 toSinghboost
Vineet growth to
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | Himalayan nation’s agricultural sector
through enhanced facilities. Under it, India provided financial assistance to Nepal to ensure all-season
irrigation facility to about 8,115 hectares of farm land, augment productivity of rice, wheat and seasonal
vegetables, fruits and other crops. Its ultimate objective is to uplift the socio-economic status of farming
families in the 12 districts covered under the project.
Background
India has been partnering with Nepal for development of Deep Tube Wells (DTWs) and Shallow Tub Wells
(STWs) in various regions of Nepal for several years recognizing scope for improving agriculture
productivity in Himalayan country whose economy is mainly dominated by agriculture. The installation of
shallow tube wells has been benefiting farmers earlier depended on natural rainwater for irrigation by
providing them all-season irrigation facility.
Government launches 5000 Wi-Fi Choupals in partnership with CSC
The Union Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeITY) launched 5000 Wi-Fi Choupals in
villages in partnership with common service centres (CSCs). It was jointly inaugurated by Union
Electronics and IT Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad and Railway Minister Piyush Goyal in New Delhi.
Wi-Fi Choupals
The aim of Wi-Fi Choupals is to transform rural Internet connectivity through BharatNet. They focuses
on developing rural Wi-Fi infrastructure and to host suitable applications to provide various ICT services
at an affordable cost. They will provide 60,000 WiFi hotspots in rural areas enabling people effective
Internet access for their various digital processes. Wi-Fi Choupals are in addition to broadband
connectivity provided gram panchyats through optical fibre network under BharatNet.
BharatNet
BharatNet is Centre’s rural internet connectivity programme which is implemented by Bharat Broadband
Network Limited (BBNL). It is world’s largest rural broadband connectivity programme using Optical fibre. It
seeks to connect all of India’s households, particularly the rural areas, through demand, affordable
broadband connectivity of 2 Mbps to 20 Mbps to realise vision of Digital India. The project is being funded
by Universal service Obligation Fund (USOF).
EPIC planet: Indian PRL scientists discover new planet
Scientists from Physical Research Laboratory (PRL), Ahmedabad have discovered for first time distant
planet revolving around Sun-like star. Both the planet and the star have been named EPIC. With this
discovery India joins handful of countries which have discovered planets around stars.
EPIC planet
The planet has been named as EPIC 211945201b (or K2-236b) and host star has been named EPIC 211945201
(or K2-236). The EPIC planet is six times bigger than Earth and revolves around host about 600 light years
away. EPIC was found circling very close to its host star, going around it once in about 19.5 days.

EPIC planet is smaller in size compared to Saturn and but is bigger than Neptune. Its mass is about 27
times Earth’s and six times that of Earth at radius. Its 60% mass may be made up of heavy elements like
ice, silicates and iron. The planet is unlikely to be inhabitable because of its high surface temperature of
around 600°C.
Discovery method
The discovery was made using PRL-designed PARAS (PRL Advance Radial-velocity Abu-sky Search)
spectrograph to measure and confirm the mass of the new planet. PARAS is first of its kind spectrograph
in the country which can measure the mass of planet going around star. It is integrated with 1.2-metre
telescope located at PRL’s Gurushikhar Observatory in Mount Abu, Rajasthan. Very few such
spectrographs exist around the world (mostly in US and in Europe) that can do such precise
measurements.
Significance
The discovery of EPIC planetary system adds to sparse catalogue of 22 other confirmed exoplanet systems
that have mass and radius in range between Saturn and Neptune. It will help in understanding formation
mechanism of such super-Neptune or sub-Saturn kind of planets that are too close to host star. This
planet is very unlike those in our own Solar System, by studying them will tell us more about how
planetary systems are formed.
Physical Research Laboratory (PRL)
It is national research institute for space and allied sciences, supported mainly by Department of Space (DST) of
Government of India. It conducts research programmes in astronomy and astrophysics, atmospheric sciences and
aeronomy, solar system, Earth sciences and theoretical physic. It was founded in November 1947 by Dr. Vikram
Sarabhai. It is located in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
Explained: Seva Bhoj Yojna

The Union Ministry of Culture has launched Seva Bhoj Yojna, a new scheme to provide financial assistance
on purchase of specific food items by Charitable Religious Institutions (CRIs) for free distribution among
people. Under this scheme, Centre’s share of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) charged on the raw
food materials purchased by the religious institutions will be refunded.
Seva Bhoj Yojna
The scheme aims reimburse Central Government share of CGST and Integrated Goods and Service Tax
(IGST) of Charitable Religious Institutions (CRIs) who provide food, prasad, langar (Community Kitchen),
Bhandara free of cost without any discrimination to public and devotees. This will help to lessen the
financial burden of such Charitable Religious Institutions.
Beneficiaries: CRIs such as Temples, Gurudwara, Mosque, Church, Dharmik Ashram, Dargah, Matth,
Monasteries etc. having existence for at least five years and serve free food to at least 5000 people in
month. Such institutions will be given grant under the scheme if they are covered under Section 10
(23BBA) of Income Tax (IT) Act or are institutions registered as Society under Societies Registration Act
(XXI of 1860) or as Public Trust under any law for time being in force of statuary religious bodies or
institutions registered under Section 12AA of IT Act
Selection: All eligible institutions must registered with Darpan portal of Ministry of Culture. The
applications will be examined by committee constituted for purpose. On basis of the recommendation of
committee, competent authority in Ministry of Culture will register CRIs for reimbursing claim of CGST
and Central Government share of IGST paid on mentioned specific items.
12 June: World Day against Child Labour
The World Day against Child Labour is observed every year across the world on June 12 with an aim to
raise awareness against child labour. This years theme is ‘Generation Safe & Healthy’. This year, a joint
campaign was launched by World Day against Child Labour (WDACL) and World Day for Safety and
Health at Work (SafeDay) to improve the safety and health of young workers and end child labour. The
campaign aims to boost initiatives to achieve Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) target 8.7 of ending all
forms of child labour by 2025 and target 8.8 of safe and secure working environments for all workers by
2030.

Background
The World Day Against Child Labour was launched by International Labour Organization (ILO) in 2002 to
focus attention on the global extent of child labour and action and efforts needed to eliminate it. Each year
on 12 June, this brings together governments, workers organizations and employers, civil society, as well
as millions of people from around the world to highlight the plight of child labourers and what can be done
to help them.
Jun, 13 2018
SEBI constitutes Group to review Institutional Trading Platform (ITP) framework
Market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has constituted Group to look into
existing Institutional Trading Platform (ITP) framework and suggest measures to facilitate listing of
startups. Its members include representatives from Indian Software Product Industry Round Table
(iSPIRT), Indian Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (IVCA), Indus Entrepreneurs (TIE), law
firms, merchant bankers and stock exchanges.
Terms of Reference of the Group
The group will look into existing ITP framework and suggest measures to facilitate listing of startups. It
will revisit current ITP framework and identify areas, if any, which require further changes. It will also
address issues relevant to ITP which group may like to assess. The group will submit report to SEBI within
period of one month i.e. by July 2018. Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Institutional Trading Platform (ITP) framework

ITP framework is window on stock exchanges where e-commerce, data analytics, bio-technology and
other startups can list and trade on their shares. It allows companies to list without necessarily doing an
Initial Public Offer (IPO) of equity. SEBI had introduced it in 2013 to facilitate listing of new age companies,
but it had failed to gain any traction.
Benefits of listing on ITP
It facilitates capital raising by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) including start-up companies which
are in their early stages of growth. It provides easier entry and exit options for informed investors like
angel investors, Venture Capital Funds (VCFs) and Private Equities (PVs) etc. to and from such companies.
It also provide better visibility and wider investor base. It also relaxes compliance and cost effective listing
and provide tax benefits to long term Investors.
SEBI constitutes Expert Committee frame rules for direct listing of Indian firms abroad
The market regulator Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) has constituted an expert committee
to recommend suitable framework to allow direct listing of Indian companies overseas bourses while also
allowing overseas companies to list directly on Indian bourses.
Terms of Reference of the Committee
The committee will examine in detail economic case for permitting direct listing of Indian companies
overseas and vice versa. It will also examine various legal, regulatory and operational constraints in
facilitating companies incorporated in India to directly list their equity share capital abroad and vice
versa. The committee will also make recommendations for a suitable framework in which to facilitate such
direct listing.
Background
Currently, Indian companies can only use the depository receipts route – Global Depository Receipts
(GDR) or American Depository Receipts (ADR) – to list on the overseas exchanges. Similarly, foreign
companies can access Indian capital markets only through Indian Depository Receipts (IDRP) for listing of
equities. But there has been demand for facilitating companies incorporated in India to directly list their
equity share capital abroad and vice versa considering evolution and internationalisation of the capital
markets.
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
SEBI is statutory regulator for securities market in India established in 1988. It was given statutory
powers through tSEBI Act, 1992. Its mandate is to protect interests of investors in securities, promote
development of securities market and to regulate securities market. It is headquartered in Mumbai,
Maharashtra.
SEBI is responsive to needs of three groups, which constitute market, issuers of securities, investors and
market intermediaries. It has three functions quasi-legislative (drafts regulations in its legislative
capacity), quasi-judicial (passes rulings and orders in its judicial capacity) and quasi-executive (conducts
investigation and enforcement action in its executive function).
ISRO to transfer lithium ion cell technology to industries for mass production
ISRO’s rocket sciences arm Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC) has decided to transfer its own in-house
lithium ion (Li ion) cell technology to successful Indian industries and start-ups on non-exclusive basis in
automobiles for Rs. 1 crore. The initiative aims to accelerate development of indigenous electric vehicle
(EV) industry and reduce dependence of imported lithium ion cell technology.
Key Facts
In this regard, VSSC has issued RFQ (request for quotation) inviting multiple qualified companies or start-
ups to use its power storage technology to produce range of Li ion cells for many purposes, mainly EVs or
electric vehicles. The transfer of ISRO’s technology will help in establishing production facilities in the
country that can produce cells of varying size, capacity, energy density and power density catering to
entire spectrum of power storage requirements of electric vehicles (EVs).
Background
Presently, lithium-ion battery is the most dominant battery system finding applications for variety of
societal needs including handy consumer electronics goods such as mobile phones, laptops, cameras and
many other portable consumer gadgets apart from industrial applications and aerospace. Most of the
current domestic demand is met by batteries imported from China, South Korea and Taiwan. The Li ion
cell production initiative is part of Central Government’s plan to achieve 100% EVs in the country by 2030.
Greece, Suriname, Cuba: President Ramnath Kovind to embark on three nation tour
President Ram Nath Kovind will embark on three nation official tour to Greece, Suriname and Cuba from
16 to 22 June 2018. Greece will be first leg of the visit followed by Suriname and Cuba. President will be
accompanied by large delegation including Minister of State for Steel Vishnu Deo Sai.
Key Facts
Greece: President Kovind will meet Greek President Prokopis Pavlopoulos during his visit. He will also
meet his Greek counterpart Alexis Tsipras and Leader of Opposition. He is scheduled to visit places of
historical and archaeological importance and address the Indian diaspora. He will also visit Monument of
Unknown Soldiers and lay wreath there.
Suriname: President Kovind will hold discussions with President Desire Delano Bouterse followed by
official level talks. Besides, number of agreements and MoUs in the areas of health and medicine, elections,
IT, Ayurveda are scheduled to be signed. India will offer Line of Credit (LoC) of $54.5 million to Suriname
for solar related projects. Suriname is a founding member of the International Solar Alliance.
Cuba: President will hold wide range of discussions with Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel Bermudez.
Besides, number of agreements and MoUs in areas of bio technology, research and education in
homeopathic medicine, traditional system of medicine and medicinal plants will be signed between both
countries during the visit.
International Conference on ICT to be held in Kathmandu, Nepal
International Conference on Information and Communication Technology (ICT) will be held in
Kathmandu, capital city of Nepal from June 17-18, 2018. The Theme of two day conference is “Sustainable
Development Goals for Smart Society”.

Key Facts
The conference is organised by Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN). It aims to bring
government and private sector together for developing plan of action using sustainable ICT applications.
It also seeks to unleash prospects of SMART Nepal by 2030.
It will provide common platform to participants to exchange their knowledge and discover new insides.
Around 500 delegates, including ICT users, professionals, trainers, researchers and experts from India,
Japan, China, Korea and Nepal will attend the event.
Surya Kiran-XIII: India-Nepal joint military exercise concludes in Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand
The thirteenth edition of India-Nepal joint military exercise was held at Pithoragarh, Uttarakhand from 30
May to 12 June 2018. The joint military exercise was aimed at further enhancing and strengthening level
of defence cooperation between the two neighbouring nations.
Key Facts
Surya Kiran-XIII exercise saw participation of nearly 300 soldiers from both Indian and Nepal Army. They
shared their experiences gained during conduct of various counter insurgency and counter terrorism
operations in past. The aim of 14 days joint military exercise was to conduct battalion level joint training
with emphasis on counter terrorism operations in mountainous terrain under United Nations (UN)
mandate. It also included various aspects of disaster management and joint effort towards relief work. It
also promoted understanding and inter-operability between two
Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | armies, further cementing ties between
the two neighbouring nations.
Surya Kiran Exercise
Surya Kiran series of bilateral military exercises are conducted bi-annually (every six months),
alternatively in India and Nepal. It is largest exercise in terms of troop’s participation in series of military
training exercises undertaken by India with various countries. It aims at promoting military relations and
increasing interoperability armies of both countries. 12th edition of this exercise was held at Nepal Army
Battle School (NABS) in Saljhandi, Nepal in September 2017.
Atal Tinkering Labs: NITI Aayog selects 3,000 more schools
NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) has selected 3,000 additional schools for establishment of Atal
Tinkering Labs (ATLs). The new additions take number of such ATLs to 5,441 representing all states and
five out of seven union territories. It will facilitate the creation of over one million neoteric child
innovators by 2020.
Key Facts
These additional schools will expand reach of ATL program and increase number of children exposed to
tinkering and innovation. The selected schools will receive grant of Rs. 20 lakh spread over next 5 years to
establish labs for nurturing innovation and entrepreneurial spirit among secondary school children across
India.
ATLs will function as innovation hubs for these student innovators to explore solutions to unique local
problems which they come across in their everyday lives. These hubs will allow students to explore
solutions to unique local problems and provide access to technologies like 3D Printing, robotics, Internet
of Things (IoT) and microprocessors.
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)
AIM is NITI Aayog’s flagship initiative to promote culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in the
country. It is mandated to create umbrella structure to oversee innovation ecosystem of country and
revolutionizing innovation eco-system – touching upon entire innovation life cycle through various
programs.
Objectives
Develop new programmes and policies for fostering innovation in different sectors of economy.
Provide platform and collaboration opportunities for different stakeholders, create awareness.
Create umbrella structure to oversee innovation ecosystem of the country.
The sub-schemes of AIM include establishing Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) and Atal Incubation Centers
(AICs), for providing scaling up support to Established Incubation Centres. It also includes finding ultra-
low cost solution to India’s most intractable problems through Atal Grand Challenges and Atal Vikas

Challenges.
Ten new iconic sites selected under Phase III of Swachh Iconic Places of Swachh Bharat Mission
The Union Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation has selected 10 more iconic sites under Phase III of
Swachh Iconic Places (SIP) of Swachh Bharat Mission. The third phase of SIP was launched at Mana village
which is situated close to Badrinath temple in Uttarakhand.
Key Facts
These 10 new sites under Phase III have joined 20 other iconic places selected under Phase I & II where
special sanitation work is already underway. 10 new iconic sites are: Raghavendra Swamy Temple
(Andhra Pradesh), Hazarduari Palace (West Bengal), Brahma Sarovar Temple (Haryana), Vidur Kuti (Uttar
Pradesh), Mana village (Uttarakhand), Pangong Lake (J&K), Nagvasuki Temple (UP), Ima Keithal market
(Manipur), Sabarimala Temple (Kerala) and Kanvashram (Uttarakhand).
Swachh Iconic Places (SIP)
SIP is an initiative of Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation under Swachh Bharat Mission and was
launched in 2016. It was initiated as project to implement Prime Minister’s vision to take iconic places and
their surroundings to higher standards of cleanliness (swachhata), so that all visitors benefit and also take
away home message of cleanliness.
Implementation of SIP: It is collaborative project of Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation with three
other central Ministries: Ministry of (M/o)Vineet
Housing and Urban| Affairs, M/o Culture, and M/o Tourism. It
Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com
also involves local administrations in concerned states and public sector and private companies are also
sponsoring partners.
Initiatives taken up under SIP: Improved sewage infrastructure, installation of Sewage Treatment Plant
(STP), drainage facilities, improved sanitation facilities, water vending machines, solid and liquid waste
management (SLWM) set-up, structure restoration, lighting arrangements, beautification of parks, roads
maintenance, better transport facilities in approach and access areas besides at the main sites.
Phase I iconic places are: Ajmer Sharif Dargah, CST Mumbai, Kamakhya Temple, Golden Temple,
Maikarnika Ghat, Meenakshi Temple, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi, Jagannath Temple, Taj Mahal and Tirupati
Temple.
Phase II of Swachh Iconic Places: Gangotri, Yamunotri, Charminar, Mahakaleshwar Temple, Convent and
Church of St. Francis of Assissi, Kalady, Gommateswara, BaidyanathDham, Gaya Tirth and Somnath
temple.
Jun, 14 2018
Cabinet approves MoU between the ICMR and INSERM, France
Union Cabinet has been apprised of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU signed between the Indian
Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and Institut National de la Santeet de la RechercheMedicale
(INSERM), France. Decision in this regard was taken by Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi.
Key Facts
The MoU aims at cooperation in areas of common interest within medical, health research and life
sciences fields. Based on scientific excellence on both sides, both parties have agreed to have a specific
focus upon diabetes and metabolic disorders, bio-ethics with focus on ethics and regulatory issues of gene
editing techniques, rare diseases and any other areas of mutual interest can be considered after
discussions between two sides.
The MoU will strengthen relations between ICMR and INSERM within the framework of international
scientific and technological cooperation in fields of mutual interest. The scientific excellence on two sides
will help to successfully work on health research in specified areas.
Cabinet extends tenure of Commission constituted to examine issue of OBC sub-categorisation
The Union Cabinet has given final extension to commission constituted to examine sub-categorisation
within Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in Central list. The commission earlier had term till June 20, 2018
but with extension it will now work till July 31, 2018.
Key Facts
The Commission was constituted with approval of President under Article 340 of Constitution in October,

2017. It is headed by Justice (Retd.) G. Rohini. It was tasked to examine extent of inequitable distribution of
benefits of reservation among castes included in broad category of OBCs, especially with reference to
OBCs included in Central list. It was also tasked to take up exercise of identifying respective castes, sub-
castes, communities synonyms in Central List of OBCs and classify them into their respective sub-
categories. It mandate was to work out mechanism, norms, criteria and parameters, in scientific approach,
for sub-categorization within such OBCs.
Background
The Supreme Court of India in Indra Sawhney and others vs. Union of India case (1992) had observed that
there is no constitutional or legal bar on states for categorizing OBCs as backward or more backward. It
had also observed that it is not impermissible in law if state chooses to do sub-categorization. So far, 9
states/UTs viz. Karnataka, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh, Jharkhand, Puducherry, Telangana, Wst Bengal,
Bihar, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu have carried out sub-categorization of OBCs. So far there was no sub
categorisation in central list of OBCs.
Cabinet approves Three Year Action Plan of Agricultural Education Division & ICAR Institutes
The Union Cabinet has approved continuation of Three Year Action Plan (2017-2020) of scheme for
Agricultural Education Division and Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) Institutes. The plan
aims at strengthening and developing higher agricultural education in India.
The scheme comprises of Strengthening and Development of Higher Agricultural Education in India and
ICAR-National Academy of Agricultural Research Management (NAARM) and ICAR-Central Institute of

Women in Agriculture (CIWA) including All India Coordinated Research Project on Home Science (AICRP-
HS).
Key Facts
The scheme aims to generate quality human resources from institutions of higher agricultural education.
It encompasses several new initiatives including, steps to attract talented students, reducing academic
inbreeding and addressing faculty shortage.
The scheme takes care of mitigating faculty shortage, international ranking, promoting innovations,
inspired teacher network, reducing inbreeding, academia interface, technology enabled learning, post-
doctoral fellowships, agriculture education portal, scientific social responsibility etc. for quality assurance
ranking of agricultural universities has been linked to financial support under scheme along with
accreditation.
It will support for strengthening and modernization of infrastructure related to student and faculty
amenities and capacity building of both faculty and students in cutting edge areas through niche area of
excellence programme will improve teaching and encouraging holistic development of the students.
Significance
This scheme will lead to generation of competitive and confident human resource in agricultural
education. It will aid in formulating gender-equitable agricultural, policies and programmes and gender-
sensitive agricultural-sector responses and capacity building needs of human resources and stakeholders
of entire National Agricultural Research & Education System (NARES). It will lead to enhancing of
competencies and capacities of stakeholders including farmers, young scientists, students and agri-
industry in NARES by ICAR-NAARM (National Academy of Agricultural Research Management).
Background
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) undertakes planning, development, coordination and
quality assurance in higher agricultural education through partnership with 75 Agricultural Universities
(AUs) across country. The human resource developed by AUs has played pivotal role in transforming
agricultural scenario to achieve self-sufficiency. The NAARM has played key role in enhancing capacities
of individuals and institutions of NARES in agricultural research, education and technology management.
The CIWA has been providing leadership role in empowering farm women as in changing agricultural
scenario roles and responsibilities of women in agriculture.
Cabinet approves enactment of Dam Safety Bill, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved the proposal for introduction of Dam Safety Bill, 2018 in the Parliament.
The bill aims to help all States and Union Territories to adopt uniform dam safety procedures which will

ensure safety of dams and safeguard benefits from such dams. This will also help in safeguarding human
life, livestock and property.
Salient features of Bill
The bill address all issues concerning dam safety including regular inspection of dams, comprehensive
dam safety review, emergency action plan, adequate repair and maintenance funds for dam safety,
instrumentation and safety manuals. It lays onus of dam safety on dam owner and provides for penal
provisions for commission and omission of certain acts.
The Bill provides for proper surveillance, inspection, operation and maintenance of all specified dams in
the country to ensure their safe functioning. It mandates constitution of National Committee on Dam
Safety (NCDS) which will evolve dam safety policies and recommend necessary regulations as may be
required for the purpose.
The Bill also provides for establishment of National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA) as regulatory body
which shall discharge functions to implement policy, standards and guidelines for dam safety in the
country. It also provides for constitution of State Committee on Dam Safety (SCDS) by State Government.
National Dam Safety Authority (NDSA)
NDSA will maintain liaison with State Dam Safety Organisations (SDSOs) and owners of dams for
standardisation of dam safety related data and practices. It will provide technical and managerial
assistance to States and SDSOs. It will maintain national level| data-base of all dams in the country and
records of major dam failures.

NDSA will examine cause of any major dam failure. It will publish and update standard guidelines and
check-lists for routine inspection and detailed investigations of dams. It will also accord accreditations or
recognition to organisations which can be entrusted with works of investigation, design or construction
of new dams.
It will also look into unresolved points of issue between SDSOs of two states or between SDSO of State and
owner of dam in that State, for proper solution. NDSA in certain cases, such as dams of one state falling
under territory of another State will also perform role of SDSO to eliminate potential causes for inter-state
conflicts.
State Committee on Dam Safety (SCDS)
SCDS will ensure proper inspection, surveillance, operation and maintenance of all specified dams in that
State and ensure their safe functioning. It will ensures that every State establishes SDSO, which will be
manned by officers from field dam safety preferably from areas of dam-designs, hydrology, hydro-
mechanical engineering, instrumentation, geo-technical investigation and dam-rehabilitation.
Background
There are over 5200 large dams and about 450 dams are under construction in India. Moreover, there are
thousands of small and medium dams. Due to lack of legal and institutional architecture for dam safety in
the country, dam safety has been issue of concern. Unsafe dams are hazard and dam break may cause
disasters, leading to huge loss of life and property.
Cabinet approves Repositioning of North Eastern Council
The Union Cabinet has approved proposal of Ministry of Development of North Eastern Region (DoNER)
for nomination of Union Home Minister as ex-officio Chairman of North Eastern Council (NEC). It also
approved that Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of DoNER will serve as Vice Chairman of
NEC.
Key Facts
NEC is statutory body with Governors and Chief Ministers of all eight North Eastern State as its members
which implements various projects through State and Central agencies. The repositioning of NEC will
help it to become more effective body for North Eastern Region (NER).
Under new arrangement with Home Minister as Chairman and Minister of DoNER as Vice Chairman will
provide forum for discussing inter-state matters more comprehensively and also consider common
approaches to be taken in future.
NEC now can perform tasks undertaken by various Zonal Councils to discuss such inter-State issues as
smuggling of arms and ammunition, drug trafficking, boundary disputes etc.

NEC will also review from time to time implementation of the projects and schemes included in project. It
will also recommend effective measures for coordination among state Governments for these projects etc.
NEC will also have such powers as may be delegated to it by the Central Government.
Background
NEC is statutory body established under North Eastern Council (NEC) Act, 1971 as an apex level body for
securing balanced and coordinated development and facilitating coordination with states. It has been
mandated to function as regional planning body for NER .It gives priority to schemes and projects while
formulating regional plan for this area benefiting two or more states. In case of Sikkim, NEC formulates
specific projects and schemes for that State.
Dr Bindeshwar Pathak: Sulabh International founder honoured with Nikkei Asia Prize
Renowned social activist and founder of Sulabh International, Dr Bindeshwar Pathak (75) was honoured
with the Japan’s prestigious Nikkei Asia Prize for his contribution to Asia’s development. He was
presented with this award at 23rd Nikkei Asia Prize ceremony held in Tokyo, Japan under ‘Culture and
Community’ category for his significant work in tackling poor hygiene and discrimination.
He was among three who were conferred with this award. Other two awardees are Chinese
environmentalist Ma Jun who was awarded business innovation prize for using power of internet to
promote cleaner industry and Vietnamese doctor Nguyen Thanh Liem who won science and technology
prize in recognition of his work advancing health care for children.
Nikkei Asia Prize

Nikkei Inc. is one of largest media corporations in Japan. It has been presenting Nikkei Asia Prize since
1996 to honour people in Asia who have made significant contributions in one of three areas: Economic
and Business Innovation, Science, Technology and Environment and Culture and Community. Former
Prime Minister Manmohan Singh and Infosys Chairman Narayan Murti are among few Indians who have
won this prize in the past.
Dr Bindeshwar Pathak
He had founded Sulabh International in 1970. It is an NGO that works to promote human rights,
environmental sanitation among other social services. It has built two-pit pour-flush ecological compost
toilets (Sulabh toilets) which are low-cost environment-friendly toilet throughout India, contributing to
better sanitation, safety for rural women and freedom from manual labour of removing human waste. He
also had invented technology for producing biogas from human waste to be used for cooking or lamp fuel
in 1977.
US Government approves sale of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to India
The United States State Department has approved sale of six AH-64E Apache attack helicopters along
with support equioments to India. The Apache choppers are one of the most advanced multi-role combat
helicopters which have advanced weapons systems and night-fighting features, manufactured by Boeing.
Key Facts
The total estimated cost of the deal is $930 million. The proposed sale also includes 180 Hellfire Longbow
air-to-surface anti-armor missiles, 90 R-3 Hellfire II air-to-surface missiles, 200 Stinger air-to-air missiles;
rockets, 30 mm cannons and ammunition.
It also includes simulators, communication equipment, spare and repair parts, training, engineering and
other support. The prime contractors for the support sale will be Lockheed Martin, Longbow, Raytheon
General Electric and Boeing.
Significance
The sale of Apache attack helicopters will strengthen India’s ability to defend its homeland and deter
regional threats. It will increase in India’s defensive capability to counter ground-armored threats and
modernise its armed forces. India will have no difficulty absorbing the helicopters and support equipment
into its armed forces. Moreover, sale of these attack helicopters from US to India will not alter the basic
military balance in the region.
NITI Aayog launches Composite Water Management Index
The NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog launched Composite Water Management
Index as useful tool to assess and improve performance in efficient management of water resources. The
index aims to inspire States/UTs towards efficient and optimal utilization of water and recycling thereof
with sense of urgency.

Key Facts
The composite water management index comprises of nine parameters and 28 indicators. These include
various aspects of ground water, irrigation, restoration of water bodies, farm practices, drinking water,
policy and governance. For purpose of analysis, reporting states of index were divided into two special
groups North Eastern and Himalayan states and Other States to take into account different hydrological
conditions across these groups.
Ranking of States/UTs
General States or Other States: Gujarat topped the list followed by Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh,
Karnataka and Maharashtra. Jharkhand, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar were worst performers among
general States. In terms of incremental change, it was Rajasthan which held the first position.
North-eastern and Himalayan states: Tripura has topped the list followed by Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim
and Assam.
Significance
Composite water management index’s ranking of states/UTs will ensure that principle of competitive and
cooperative federalism is actualised in India’s water management system. It will help build pressure on
states who have not performed well to improve their water management techniques as this is directly
linked to agriculture prosperity in different states.
Vineet Singh It can be | also utilised to formulate and implement
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com
suitable strategies for better management of water resources. It will provide useful information for States
and also for concerned Central Ministries and Departments enabling them to formulate and implement
suitable strategies for better management of water resources.
Need for index
India in recent times is suffering from worst water crisis in its history. Millions of lives and livelihoods are
under threat due to this crisis. Currently, 600 million Indians face high to extreme water stress and about
2 lakh people die every year due to inadequate access to safe water. It is estimated crisis is going to get
worse by 2030 when India’s water demand is projected to be twice the available supply. In view of
limitations on availability of water resources and rising demand for water, sustainable management of
water resources has acquired critical importance. The Composite Water Management Index will fulfil
mandate of cooperative and competitive federalism and also challenges States/UTs to meet aspirations of
new India.
10th Meeting of Global Alliance to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis held in New Delhi
The 10th Meeting of Global Alliance to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GAELF) was held in New Delhi,
India. It was inaugurated by Union Minister of Health and Family Welfare J P Nadda. This is second time
India hosted meeting of GAELF. Earlier in 2002, India had hosted second meeting of GAELF.
Key Facts
The 10th meeting recognized that India has highest burden of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and there is need
of taking leadership role to Eliminate lymphatic filariasis. It provided insight of larger global programme
and enable them join discussion and contribute to solutions. On this occasion, GAELF awards was
presented to 11 countries- Cambodia, Egypt, Maldives, Cook Islands, Niue, Marshall Islands, Sri Lanka,
Thailand, Tonga, Togo and Vanuatu, for successfully interrupting the transmission. Moreover, India’s
Accelerated Plan for Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) 2018 was also released.
Lymphatic Filariasis (LF)
LF is commonly known as Elephantiasis. It is one of oldest and most debilitating neglected trophical
disease, which is currently endemic in 73 countries of the world, including India. LF disease is caused
mainly by Wuchereria Bancrofti and spread by Culex mosquito. This mosquito grows in dirty accumulated
water. The disease affects the poorest population in society, particularly those living in areas with poor
sanitation, water and hygiene. LF does not kill affected people, but may cause permanent disfigurement,
reduced productivity and social stigma.
Global Alliance to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GAELF)
GAELF is alliance of partners from 72 LF endemic national country programmes, NGOs, private sectors,
academic and research institutes and international development agencies that assists WHO’s Global
Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis. It was formed in 2001, since then it is being held biennially.
Jun, 15 2018
NLCIL’s three 100 MW solar power projects inaugurated
Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLCIL)’s three 100 MW Solar Power Projects for commercial
operation were inaugurated recently. These projects situated at Thoppalaakkarai and Sethupuram in
Virudhunagar District and Sellaiya Sezhiyanallur in Tirunelveli District of Tamil Nadu.
Key Facts
The three solar plants have installed capacity of 100 MW each. They were erected at cost of Rs.1300 crores,
which includes Operation & Maintenance (O&M) cost for 15 Years. The power produced from these units
will be sold to Tamil Nadu Power Generation and Distribution Company (TANGEDCO) at cost of Rs.4.41/-
per unit.
Neyveli Lignite Corporation India Limited (NLCIL)
NLCIL is navratna profit making of Central Government. It is engaged in mining of lignite and generation
of power through lignite based thermal power plants. It was established in 1956, following discovery of
lignite deposits in Neyveli, Tamil Nadu. It is headquartered in Neyveli, Tamil Nadu.
NLCIL comes under administrative control of Ministry of Coal and serves as important source of power
generation to southern states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Telangana, Rajasthan
and Puducherry (UT). Currently, it operates four open cast lignite mines of total capacity of 30.6 Million
Tonnes per Annum (MTPA) and 5 thermal power stations with total installed capacity of 3240 MW.
Cabinet approves withdrawal of Nalanda University (Amendment) Bill, 2013

The Union Cabinet has approved withdrawal of Nalanda University (Amendment) Bill, 2013 pending in
Rajya Sabha. The amendment bill was introduced to amend certain existing provisions of the Nalanda
University Act, 2010 and add some new provisions mainly dealing with functioning of Governing Board of
Nalanda University.
Nalanda University
Nalanda University revived version of ancient Nalanda University located at Rajgir in Nalanda District of
present Bihar. It is non-state, non-profit, secular and self-governing international institution. Its idea was
mooted by former President APJ Abdul Kalam in 2006.
It was established through Nalanda University Act, 2010 on basis of Joint Press Statement at 4th East Asia
Summit held in Thailand in October 2009. It functions under Ministry of External Affairs. It is mandated
to be engaged in pursuit of intellectual, philosophical, historical and spiritual studies.
Teaching in this university was inaugurated in September 2014. At present, it has 116 students in three
schools of studies namely School of Ecology and Environment Studies, School of Historical Studies and
School of Buddhist Studies. This includes 35 international students from 21 foreign countries.
Note: The ancient Nalanda University was established in 427 AD during the reign of Gupta king
Sakraditya. It was one of India’s earliest university. At its peak, it had attracted scholars and students from
near and far with some travelling all the way from Tibet, China, Korea, and Central Asia.
June 14: World Blood Donor Day
World Blood Donor Day observed every year across the world on June 14 to thank voluntary, unpaid blood
donors for their life-saving gifts of blood. It also seeks to raise awareness of need for regular blood
donations to ensure the quality, safety and availability of blood and blood products for patients in need.
The theme for this year is ‘Be there for someone else. Give blood. Share life’. The host is Greece. The theme
highlights importance blood donation as action of solidarity. It also highlights fundamental human values
of respect, empathy and kindness associated with unpaid blood donation systems.
Importance of blood donation
Transfusion of blood and blood products helps save millions of lives every year. It helps patients suffering
from life-threatening conditions to live longer and with higher quality of life. It also supports complex
medical and surgical procedures. The blood transfusion also plays essential, life-saving role in maternal
and child care and during emergency response to man-made and natural disasters.
Background
The World Blood Donors Day was instituted by World Health Organisation (WHO) in 2004 to raise
awareness of need for safe bold and blood products and to thank donors. It is one of the eight official global
public health campaigns marked by WHO along with World Tuberculosis Day (24 March), World Health
Day (7 April), World Malaria Day (25 April), World Immunization Week (last week of April), World No
Tobacco Day (31 May), World Hepatitis Day (28 July) and World AIDS Day (1 December).
Government hikes import duty on non-palm oils by 5-10%
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBITC) under Finance Ministry has raised import duty
by 5-10% on non-palm edible oils, both crude and refined ones, in order to protect interest of domestic
oilseeds growers and processors.
Key Facts
Sunflower oil: The import duty on crude variant was increased from 25% to 35%, while that on refined
variant from 35% to 45%.
Crude groundnut oil: The import duty was increased from 30% to 35%, while that on refined groundnut
oil from 35% to 45%.
Canola oil: The import duty was increased from 25% to 35% .
Background
India has 60-65% import dependency in edible oils as there is huge demand supply gap in domestic
market. India imports over 14 million tonnes of vegetable oils annually to meet domestic demand. Thus,
international trade in edible oils generates huge import bill to be paid every year. The import bill for edible
oil is around $10 billion which is India’s third-highest overseas spending after oil and gold. In March 2018,
Central Government had raised import duty on| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com
Vineet Singh crude palm oils | from 30% to 44%, while that on refined
palm oils to 54% from 40%. But the customs duty on non-palm crude and refined edibles was kept
unchanged.
PM Naraendra Modi inaugurates Integrated Command and Control Centre at Naya Raipur
Prime Minister Narendra Modi dedicated country’s 10th Smart City Integrated Command and Control
Centre (ICCC) at Naya Raipur, Chhattisgarh. Under the ambitious Smart City Mission, ICCC in nine cities
are operational in Ahmedabad, Vadodara, Surat, Pune, Nagpur, Rajkot, Visakhapatnam, Bhopal and
Kakinada.
Key Facts
The ICCC at Naya Raipur will control and monitor online water and power supply, sanitation, traffic
movement, integrated building management, city connectivity and Internet infrastructure (data centre),
under one roof. It will also undertake monitoring of Naya Raipur city. It will also control and monitor
online water and power supply, sanitation and traffic movement. The centre will be managed through GIS
(geographic information system) platform, where residents can register their complaints regarding
service dysfunction through helpline numbers.
Naya Raipur
Naya Raipur is upcoming capital city of Chhattisgarh and country’s first smart greenfield city. It is one of
the three Smart Cities of Chhattisgarh selected under Smart Cities Mission. Other two cities are Raipur
and Bilaspur. Naya Raipur is being envisioned as service hub across multiple sectors including
information technology, finance, trade, hospitality, biotechnology, medical and education. It is also the
first digitally accessible smart city in country which has pioneered in implementing Universal Access IT
systems which includes and empowers citizens with disability to access with ease.
106th Science Congress to be hosted by Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Jalandhar
The 106th Indian Science Congress will be held at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in Jalandhar,
Punjab from January 3 to 7, 2019. It will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The theme for
the five-day science congress is ‘Future India: Science & Technology’. It will be organised by the Indian
Science Congress Association (ISCA), a premier scientific organisation of India.
Key Facts
The science congress will comprise of 18 plenary sessions, including those of medical, environmental,
chemical and other science domains.There will also be four parallel mega events, including women’s
science conference, children’s science conference; science communicators meet and science exhibition.
The exhibition will see participation from national and international science companies, especially from
US, Australia, Germany and Switzerland. About 15,000 delegates, including 300 top scientists and Nobel
Laureates from across world are going to attend the congress.

Background
ISCA was started in the year 1914 at its headquarters in Kolkata. It organises Indian Science Congress
annually in first week of January. The first meeting of ISCC was held in January 1914 in Asiatic Society,
Kolkata. ISCA works under Department of Science & Technology, Ministry of Science & Technology
(Government of India). The 106th edition of ISC was held at Manipur Central University in Imphal,
Manipur with theme “Reaching the Unreached Through Science & Technology”.
20 States sign MoU for implementing Ayushman Bharat – National Health Protection Mission
Twenty States have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Union Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare (MoHFW) for implementing Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission (AB-
NHPM). The MoUs were exchanged during Health Ministers’ conclave held in New Delhi. During the
conclave, aspects of NHPM, like operational guidelines, model tender document for selection of insurance
companies and implementation support agencies for trusts were discussed.
Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission (AB-NHPM)
AB-NHPM aims to target over 10 crore families belonging to poor and vulnerable population based on
Socio Economic and Caste Census 2011 (SECC) database. It will cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per year,
taking care of almost all secondary care and tertiary care procedures. There will be no cap on family size
and age in the scheme. The scheme integrates two on-going centrally sponsored schemes viz. Rashtriya
Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and Senior Citizen Health Insurance
Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | Scheme (SCHIS).
Benefit cover: It includes pre and post-hospitalisation expenses. It will cover all pre-existing conditions
from beginning of the policy. It will also pay defined transport allowance per hospitalization to the
beneficiary.
Cashless benefits: The scheme allows the beneficiary to take cashless benefits from any public or private
empanelled hospitals across the country. The payment for treatment will be done on package rate which
will be defined by Government in advance basis. The package rates will include all the costs associated
with treatment.
Role of state governments: They are allowed to expand the scheme both horizontally and vertically. They
are also free to choose modalities for implementation. They can implement through insurance company or
directly through Trust/ Society or a mixed model. States/UTs will have also flexibility to modify these
rates within limited bandwidth.
Council: For giving policy directions and fostering coordination between Centre and States, Ayushman
Bharat National Health Protection Mission Council (AB-NHPMC) will be set up at apex level. It will be
chaired by Union Health and Family Welfare Minister.
DRDO converts Pinaka rocket system into guided missile
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has converted indigenous Pinaka rocket
system into a precision-guided missile, with enhanced range and accuracy to hit its targets. The missile
has completed its initial trial and now is undergoing developmental trials. It is expected to be delivered to
Indian Army in two years and complies with its policy of use of precision weapons.
Pinaka rocket system
It is jointly developed by Pune based Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE), Defence
Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad and Research Centre, Imarat (RCI). The rocket
has been named after Pinaka, the bow of Lord Shiva.
It is fired using multi-barrel rocket launcher (MBRL) which can fire 12 Rockets loaded with explosives
within 44 seconds and destroy target area of 4 sq km at time. It has capability to incorporate several types
of warheads makes it deadly for enemy as it can even destroy solid structures and bunkers.
The quick reaction time and high rate of fire of system gives an edge to Army during low amount conflict
situation. It already has been inducted into Indian Army and Pinaka Mark I was used in 1999 Kargil
conflict. Its initial version (Pinaka Mark I) was upgraded into Pinaka Mark II, with enhanced range of 70 to
80 km with a five metre accuracy compared to Mark I, with a range of 40 km.
Government launches Swajal Scheme in 115 Aspirational districts
Ministry of Drinking Water & Sanitation has launched Swajal Scheme in 115 Aspirational districts of India
to provide clean drinking water. It will involve outlay of Rs. 700 crores through flexi-funds under existing

National Rural Drinking Water Programme (NRDWP) budget.

Swajal Scheme
Swajal is community owned drinking water scheme or programme for sustained drinking water supply.
Under it, 90% of project cost is taken care by the Government and remaining 10% is contributed by
beneficiary community. The operations and management of the project is taken care by the local villagers.
Under this scheme, government aims to provide villages with piped water supply powered by harnessing
solar energy. Moreover, hundreds of rural technicians will be trained under this scheme for operation and
maintenance of Swajal units.
Aspirational districts
The Union Government had selected 115 backward (aspirational) districts for rapid transformation by
2022 in line with Government’s vision to create ‘New India’. NITI Aayog had selected these districts on six
socio-economic parameters, pertaining to health and nutrition, education, financial inclusion and skill
development, agriculture and water resources and basic infrastructure. Under this initiative, Government
focuses closely on improving people’s ability to participate fully in burgeoning economy
These 115 backward districts include 35 districts affected by Left Wing Extremists (LWE) violence, 55
districts just affected by LWE and another 15 including districts in Jammu and Kashmir and northeast
affected by terrorism. Government has embarked upon major policy initiative for rapid transformation of
these 115 districts that are lagging on specific development
Vineet Singh parameters.
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | For this government will leverage
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), aided by technology to bring radical transformation of these
aspirational districts.
June 16, 2018
Maharashtra signs MoU with Canada’s Quebec province to increase economic cooperation
Maharashtra government has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Quebec province of
Canada to increase economic cooperation and welfare of tribal community in the state. The MoU was
signed between Chief Minister Devendra Fadanvis and Philippe Couillard, Prime Minister of Quebec
province of Canada. Under the MoU, the key areas of focus are information technology (IT), biotechnology,
artificial intelligence and welfare of the tribal community.
Key Facts
CM Devendra Fadnavis was on week-long tour to Dubai, Canada and United States to bring business to
Maharashtra. During his visit to Canada, he also met Michael Sabia, President and CEO of CDPQ which is
Institutional Fund Manager that manages funds over $298 billion. The intention was to attract more
investment in Pension Fund from Canada. During this meeting, CDPQ agreed to partner with some of
companies in India and also shown interest in working with retail partners.
Japan adopts economic plan to allow more foreign workers
Japan’s Cabinet has adopted an economic plan that will allow more foreign workers to work in the
country. This proposal will help rapidly aging country to make up for its declining workforce. In recent
times, number of foreign workers in Japan has nearly doubled to 1.28 million.
Key Facts
Under the plan, Japan will relax visa requirements in sectors facing severe labour shortages such as
agriculture, nursing care, construction and transport. Highly skilled professionals will be allowed in new
categories of this visa regime. It will create new five-year visa category for non-professional foreign
workers.
The non-professional foreign workers will be allowed to stay in Japan for only up to five years as visitors,
not as immigrants. They will be not allowed to be accompanied by family members. Applicants for new
visa status will need to pass certain skill tests and have some degree of Japanese language proficiency in
order to receive new five-year visas. The plan is not scheme to acquire cheap labour or change to Japan’s
immigration policy.
June 15: World Elder Abuse Awareness Day
The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day (WEAAD) is observed every year on June 15 across the world to
highlight the often silent suffering of the elder generation. The theme this year is “Moving from Awareness
to Action through a Human Rights based approach”.

Key Facts
The global population of people aged 60 years and older is predicted to be double, from 900 million in 2015
to about 2 billion in 2050. With growing global population of elderly people, and increase in longevity,
abuse of elderly is increasing. It is serious social problem that affects health and human rights and can
cause death.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that around 1 in 6 older people experienced some form
of abuse. Rates of abuse may be higher for older people living in institutions than in community. Elder
abuse is predicted to increase as many countries are experiencing rapidly ageing populations. The abuse
can lead to serious physical injuries and long-term psychological consequences.
Background
The World Elder Abuse Awareness Day was proclaimed by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by
through resolution 66/127. Observance of this day aims to raise voice against abuse and suffering inflicted
to some defenceless older people. Elder abuse is global social issue which affects health and human rights
of millions of older persons around the world. This day aims to gain attention of the international
community on this social issue.
US slaps 25% tariff on $50 billion worth of Chinese goods
United States has slapped stiff 25% tariff on US $50 billion worth of Chinese goods. It has accused China of
intellectual property (IP) theft and unfair Vineet
trade Singh | practices. This| decision has triggered full-fledged trade
vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com
war between world’s two largest economies.

Key Facts
The tariffs will be applied in two waves. The first will apply to 818 Chinese goods worth $34 billion and in
second wave it will apply to 284 goods worth another $16 billion. The focus of the tariffs is on industrial
goods, particularly in areas identified under China’s Made in China 2025 plan designed to encourage
growth in particular industries. It generally focuses on products from industrial sectors that contribute to
or benefit from “Made in China 2025” industrial policy. It includes industries such as information and
communications technology (ICT), aerospace, robotics, industrial machinery, new materials, and
automobiles.
Background
US’s decision to impose fresh tariffs on China follows his recent imposition of steep tariffs on steel and
aluminium imports from Canada, European Union and Mexico on national security grounds. The EU and
Canada are planning to enact retaliatory tariffs starting in July 2018. Mexico has already retaliated with
its own tariffs on US goods.
TCS becomes first Company to close over Rs. 7 Trillion Market Cap
India’s IT major Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) became first listed company in India to close day’s trade
with market capitalisation (m cap) of over Rs. 7 lakh crore (over $103 billion). M cap is value of company
that is traded on stock market, calculated by multiplying total number of shares by present share price.
Key Facts
TCS achieved this feat after its board approved share buyback of 76,190,476 equity shares of Rs. 1 face
value at Rs. 2,100 per share for about Rs. 16,000 crore (over $2 billion). The buyback size was 1.99% of the
total paid-up equity share capital.
This is second time the global software major resorted to buy back its shares after it bought 5.61 crore
shares in April 2017 for Rs. 16,000 crore at Rs. 2,850 per share.
The buyback was made from shareholders of Company on proportionate basis under tender offer route
using stock exchange mechanism in accordance with provisions contained in SEBI (Buy Back of Securities)
Regulations and Companies Act, 2013 and rules made thereunder.
Government approves financial assistance of Rs. 5.5 lakh per family to West Pakistan Refugees settled in
J&K
The Union Government has approved financial assistance amounting to Rs. 5.5 lakh per family to West
Pakistan Refugees (WPRs). It will benefit 5,764 families of WPRs settled in Jammu and Kashmir.
Key Facts
The scheme comes into effect from June 2018. The amount of Rs. 5.5 lakh per family will be deposited in
bank accounts of eligible beneficiaries based on authentication by State Government. For smooth

implementation of the scheme, the State Government will also appoint Nodal Officer for this scheme. Full
expenditure for this scheme will be borne by Central Government.
Background
In the aftermath of partition of the Indian subcontinent in 1947, thousands of families from Pakistan
occupied areas of Jammu & Kashmir (PoJK) had migrated to India from then West Pakistan. Central
Government and J&K state Government have been extending series of relief and rehabilitation packages
to WPRs from time to time to mitigate the hardship of displaced persons and to rehabilitate them.
India to host European Union Film Festival
India is going to host 23rd European Union Film Festival (EUFF) on 18th to 24th June, 2018 at Siri Fort
Auditorium in New Delhi. It is organized by Directorate of Film Festivals, Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting partnering with the Delegation of European Union (EU) and embassies of EU Member States
in various city film club.
Key Facts
The European Union Film Festival will showcase 24 latest European films from 23 EU member states. It
will screen movies from 23 EU states, thus celebrating diversity and will bring some unusual stories for
the world cinema enthusiasts. The selected films as part of the festival will be showcased in 11 cities across
India including New Delhi, Port Blair, Chennai, Pune, Kolkata, Jaipur, Visakhapatnam, Puducherry,
Thrissur, Hyderabad and Goa from 18 June Vineet
to 31SinghAugust 2018. |
European Union (EU)

EU is an economic and political partnership consisting of 28 member countries. Law made in European
Parliament is applicable and binding on all member states directly. Its member states are committed to
same basic values: peace, democracy, rule of law and respect for human rights. It is single market allowing
the free movement of people, goods, services and capital within internal market. The union has its own
currency, Euro established as monetary union in 1999 and being used by 19 member countries. Moreover,
within Schengen Area of EU, passport controls have been abolished. The capital of EU is located in
Brussels, Belgium.
June 16: International Day of Family Remittances
The International Day of Family Remittances (IDFR) is observed every year on 16 June across the world. It
is aimed at recognizing significant financial contribution migrant workers make to wellbeing of their
families back home and to sustainable development of their countries of origin. It is also aimed at
encouraging public and private sectors, as well as civil society, to do more together and collaborate to
maximize impact of remittances in developing world.
Remittance
Remittance is a transfer of money by foreign worker to individual or family in their home country. It competes with
international aid as one of the largest financial inflows to developing countries.
Background
The IDFR was unanimously proclaimed by all 176 member states of International Fund for Agricultural
Development (IFAD)’s Governing Council at its 38th session in February 2015. Later it was adopted by
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in June 2018 through resolution A/72/L.56. The first IDFR was
celebrated on 16 June 2015. Observance of this day recognizes efforts of migrant workers globally, but also
to strengthen current partnerships and create new synergies among sectors to promote development
impact of remittances worldwide.
International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD)
IFAD is international financial institution and specialised agency of UN dedicated to eradicating poverty
and hunger in rural areas of developing countries. It was established in 1977 as one of the major outcomes
of 1974 World Food Conference. Its headquarters is in Rome, Italy. It is member of UN Development
Group.
June 17, 2018
China imposes additional duties on US $50 billion worth of American products
China in tit-for-tat action has imposed additional tariffs and duties on $50-billion worth of American
products. It comes after US President Donald Trump slapped stiff 25% tariff on Chinese goods worth
similar amount. This has triggered full-fledged trade war between world’s two largest economies.
Key Facts
The decision was taken in line with relevant stipulations of Foreign Trade Law of China and Regulations of
China on Import and Export Duties, as well as fundamental principles of international laws. China
imposed additional duties of 25% on 659 items of American products. Out of the 659 items, tariffs on 545
items worth about $34 billion including agricultural products aquatic products and vehicles will be
effective from July 2018. The tariffs on remaining 114 items, which include chemical products, medical
equipment and energy products, will be declared later. With this, trade conditions of these goods will
affect relevant producers and trade companies as well as production and operation of upstream and
downstream industries.
Background
US had announced additional tariffs of 25% on Chinese imports worth approximately $50 billion, accusing
it of intellectual property theft and unfair trade practices. US also had notified that it will continue to
impose additional tariffs if China takes retaliatory measures
The move to impose import tariffs came as two countries held several rounds of talks following US
President Donald Trump’s demand to slash bilateral trade deficit by $100 billion in month followed by
$200 billion to address $375-billion deficit.
In mid-May 2018, both countries had announced cease-fire| in trade war after two rounds of trade
negotiations. In the first round, China had agreed to significantly increase purchases of US agricultural
and energy products to reduce trade imbalance. But the second round of trade talks in Beijing failed to
yield any breakthroughs. Moreover, US President’s decision to impose fresh tariffs on China follows his
recent imposition of steep tariffs on steel and aluminium imports from Canada, European Union (EU) and
Mexico on national security grounds.
Peggy Whitson: NASA’s record-breaking spacewoman retires as astronaut
NASA’s record-breaking spacewoman, Peggy Whitson (58) has announced her retirement as astronaut less
than year after returning from her last and longest spaceflight. During her career, she had racked up total
of 665 days in space — more than any other NASA astronaut, and record for women worldwide. Her last
spaceflight lasted close to 10 months, spanning 2016 and 2017.
Peggy Whitson
She was born on February 9, 1960 in Mount Ayr, Iowa, US. She is biochemist and had joined NASA as
researcher in 1986 and became an astronaut in 1996. She had flown three missions aboard International
Space Station (ISS): Expedition 5 in 2002; Expedition 16 in 2008 (In it she became first female commander
of the orbiting lab) and extended and her longest stint in space from November 2016 through September
2017, which spanned Expeditions 50, 51 and 52. She had commanded Expedition 51, becoming the first
woman to lead an ISS mission twice.
Records: She is world’s most experienced female spacewalker, with 10 under her spacesuit belt with
record-setting total time of 60 hours and 21 minutes. She was first woman to command International
Space Station (ISS), holding the position twice. She was oldest woman ever to fly in space. She was first
and only woman (and first non-military person) to serve as chief of NASA’s male-dominated astronaut
corps from 2009 to 2012.
NSG plenary meeting held in Jurmala, Latvia
The Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) plenary meeting took place on in Jurmala, Latvia after Latvia assumed
chairmanship of NSG for 2018-19. With this, Latvia became first Baltic state to chair the NSG. There was
no headway in India’s application for NSG entry in this plenary meeting. India had applied for NSG
membership at 2016 Seoul plenary session, but it was objected by few member countries of NSG including
China.
Key Highlights of meeting
Participation Non-NPT States: NSG member states continued discussions on issue of technical, legal and
political aspects of participation Non-NPT States of in NSG initiated at its 2016 Seoul plenary. There was
no headway this time for considering India’s membership despite thaw in relationship with China. There
was no specific reference to Pakistan’s application to the NSG.

Waiver to India: NSG continues to consider all aspects of implementation of the 2008 Statement on Civil
Nuclear Cooperation with India (or NSG waiver for India) and discussed NSG relationship with India.
On North Korea: Participating Governments of NSG reconfirmed their commitment to UN Security
Council resolutions 2371 (2017), 2375 (2017), 2397 (2017) and previous relevant UNSC resolutions, which
reaffirm that North Korea will immediately abandon all nuclear weapons and existing nuclear
programmes in complete, verifiable and irreversible manner. They noted that supply of all controlled
items to North Korea is prohibited according to above resolutions. They noted with encouragement the
recent Inter-Korean summits and North Korea-US summit.
On Iran: They acknowledged continued implementation of Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA)
and Iran by E3/EU+2 (United Kingdom, France, Germany + Russia, China) and Iran. JCPOA is nuclear deal
between P-5 (US, UK, Russia. China, France) + 1 (Germany) and Iran.
Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG)
NSG is a multinational body concerned with reducing nuclear proliferation by controlling the export and
re-transfer of materials that may be used for development of nuclear weapons. It was set up in 1974 as a
reaction to India’s first successful nuclear tests (code name Smiling Buddha conducted on 18 May 1974) to
stop so called misuse of nuclear material meant for peaceful purposes. Currently, NSG has 48 members.
RBI eases investment norms for foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) in debt
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has eased investment norms for foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) in debt,
especially into individual large corporates. This move is aimed at attracting more overseas flows and
thereby help to arrest recent fall in rupee and also lift recent fall in demand for corporate bonds.
Key Facts
Corporate bond segment: FPIs are permitted to invest in corporate bonds with minimum residual
maturity of above 1 year. The short-term investments in corporate bonds by an FPI shall not exceed 20% of
total investment of that FPI in corporate bonds.
Government securities (G-secs): The FPIs cap on investment in Government securities (G-secs) has been
increased to 30% of outstanding stock of that security, from 20% earlier. FPIs were allowed to invest in
government bonds with minimum residual maturity of three years.
Removal of minimum residual maturity requirement: FPIs are permitted to invest in G-secs, including
treasury bills (T-bills), and SDLs without any minimum residual maturity requirement. However, it will be
subject to condition that short-term investments by FPI under either category shall not exceed 20% of
total investment of that FPI in that category. In this case, short-term investments are defined as
investments with residual maturity up to 1 year. The short-term investments by an FPI may exceed 20% of
total investments, only if the investments are entirely made on or before April 2018, and not made after it.
Foreign portfolio investment (FPI)
FPI consists of securities and other financial assets passively held by foreign investors. It does not provide
investor with direct ownership of financial assets. It is relatively liquid depending on volatility of the
market. In India, FPIs are allowed to invest in various debt market instruments such as government
bonds, treasury bills, state development loans (SDLs) and corporate bonds, but with certain restrictions
and limits. FPI is part of country’s capital account and shown on its balance of payments (BOP).
Differences between FPI and FDI
FPI lets investor purchase stocks, bonds or other financial assets in foreign country. In this case, investor
does not actively manage investments or companies that issue investment. It also does not have control
over securities or business. In contrast, FDI lets investor purchase direct business interest in foreign
country. The investor also controls his monetary investments and actively manages company into which
he puts money. FPI is more liquid and less risky than FDI.
Assumption Island: Seychelles denies joint project with India to develop naval base
Seychelles President Danny Faure ahead of his state visit to India has said that India-Seychelles joint
project to develop naval base at Assumption Island in his country will not move forward. He also
mentioned that Seychelles will develop military facilities at the island on its own. This statement comes
after growing political opposition in Seychelles to agreement that was signed with India in 2015 to develop
a naval facility at Assumption Island which would have given India strategic advantage in Indian Ocean

Region (IOR).
Background
India was keen on developing the Assumption Island as naval base due to key strategic location in the
western periphery of Indian Ocean and to expand its footprint in the region where China has been trying
to enhance its military presence. For this, India had signed 20 years agreement in 2015 during Prime
Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to that Seychelles. It was meant to India’s first Naval Base project overseas
and had acquired significance after China had acquired its first African naval base in Djibouti (near Horn
of Africa) in November 2014. However, after opposition leaders in Seychelles came out openly against
agreement with India, Seychelles President refused to place in Seychelles National Assembly (its
parliament) since he didn’t have majority. Later in January 2018, India and Seychelles finalised an updated
version of the original pact to accommodate lot of concerns of Seychelles side.
Assumption Island
Assumption Island is a small island situated southwest of Seychelles main and largest island of Mahe. It is
situated very close to Mozambique Channel from where much Indian Ocean maritime routes pass. Its
location lends it strategic importance for monitoring shipping in the Mozambique Channel.
June 18, 2018
India notifies WTO of its decision to impose higher import tariffs on 30 US goods
India has notified World Trade Organisation (WTO) of its decision to impose higher import tariffs
(ranging from 20 to 50%) on 30 goods from United States. It includes motorcycles (engine capacity of
more than 800 cc), heavy machinery, certain iron and steel goods, boric acid as well as large number of
agro products such as almonds, shrimps and chocolates. It is expected to rake in additional $240 million to
India.
Key Facts
This will reportedly be the first time that India has imposed retaliatory import duties against US’s
unilateral protectionist policies that range from tighter visa regime to higher import duties. The proposed
increase in import duties is aimed at countering the impact of higher US tariffs on certain Indian steel and
aluminium products, which is going to put burden on $241 million on India.
India imposed retaliatory import duties after it received cold shoulder from US on its request for
exempting India from the higher tariffs announced by the US on steel and aluminium imports. India also
had dragged US to WTO dispute settlement mechanism over the imposition of import duties on steel and
aluminium. India’s exports of steel and aluminium products to US stood at about US $1.5 billion every year.
Its exports to US in 2016-17 stood at US $42.21 billion, while imports were US $22.3 billion.
Russia successfully launches Glonass-M satellite using Soyuz-2.1b carrier rocket
Russia has successfully launched Glonass-M positioning satellite on board of Soyuz-2.1b carrier rocket
from the Plesetsk space centre in Mirny, Arkhangelsk Oblast. The satellite is part of GLONASS network
GLONASS (Russian acronym for Global Navigation Satellite System) which provides real-time positioning
data for surface, sea and airborne objects around globe, at accuracy reportedly at par with US Global
Positioning System (GPS). With this launch, there are now total 26 Glonass satellites in orbit.
Glonass-M satellite
It was built by Reshetnev Information Satellite Systems (formerly NPO-PM). It has design life of 7 years
which is significantly higher than that of previous generation of Glonass satellites. It is about 2.4* 3.7
meters in size with solar array span of 7.2 meters. It has two deployable solar arrays which provide 1600
watts of electrical power. The heart of the satellite is Caesium atomic clock that provides accurate timing
reference needed to generate navigation data.
Glonass
Glonass is Russian Satellite Navigation System considered as counterpart to GPS of US, Galileo of
European Union (EU) and Beidou of China. It is being used by military as well as commercial customers. It
provides real time position and velocity determination at accuracy that can be compared to that of GPS. It
has accuracy of 100 meters as part of public segment and 10 to 20 meters for military users. Its time
accuracy is under 1000 nanoseconds. Glonass Program started back in 1976 when development was
initiated. The first Glonass launch took place in 1982 and the constellation became fully operational in

1995. Currently, second generation Glonass-M satellites as well as Glonass-K1 satellites are in service.
Glonass-K2 and KM satellites are under development.
Banks Board Bureau recommends 22 GMs for elevation as executive directors at PSU banks
Banks Board Bureau (BBB) has recommended 22 general managers to be elevated as executive directors at
the various public sector banks (PSBs). This is the first major exercise undertaken by reconstituted BBB,
headed by newly appointed Chairman BP Sharma, former Secretary, Department of Personnel and
Training.
These recommendations were based on interactions held by BBB with eligible candidates from PSBs
towards appointment against vacancies in PSBs for the period 2018-19. Now, Appointments Committee of
Cabinet (ACC) headed by Prime Minister will take the final decision in this regard.
Banks Board Bureau (BBB)
BBB is super authority (autonomous and self-governing body) of Central Government comprising eminent
professionals and officials to improve governance of PSBs. It was announced by Union Government in
August 2015 as part of seven point Indradhanush Mission to revamp PSBs. It was set up in February 2016
under chairmanship of former CAG Vinod Rai based on recommendations of RBI-appointed Nayak
Committee. It is based in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Mandate: Its broad agenda is to improve governance at state-owned lenders. Its mandate also involves
advising government on top-level appointments in PSBs and assisting banks with capital-raising plans
through innovative financial methods and instruments as well as strategies to deal with issues of stressed
assets or bad loans.
Composition: BBB comprises of three ex-officio members (from government) and three expert members,
two of which are from private sector in addition to Chairman.
June 17: World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought
The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (WDCDD) is observed every year on June 17 across
to world to promote public awareness of international efforts to combat desertification. The day aims to
community involvement and co-operation at all levels. The 2018 Theme of WDCDD is “Land has true value
– invest in it.” It urges to move away from unsustainable land use and make a difference by investing in the
future of land. The global observance of WDCD2018 was hosted by Government of Ecuador.
Desertification
Desertification is degradation of land in arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas. It is caused primarily by
human activities and climatic variations. It does not refer to the expansion of existing deserts. It occurs
because dryland ecosystems, which cover over one third of world‘s land area, are extremely vulnerable to
overexploitation and inappropriate land use. Poverty, political instability, deforestation, overgrazing and
bad irrigation practices can all undermine the productivity of the land.
Background
The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had designated June 17 as World Day to Combat
Desertification and Drought in 1994 through resolution A/RES/49/115. It was observed for the first time in
1995. The date marks adaptation of United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) by
UNGA in 1994. The day is observed globally to promote public awareness on the issue, and
implementation of UNCCD in those countries experiencing serious desertification or drought, particularly
in Africa.
United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
UNCCD was adopted in June 17, 1994 and entered into force 1996. It is only legally binding international
agreement to address problem of desertification and other land issues. It seeks to address desertification
and land issues specifically arid, semi-arid and dry sub-humid areas, known as drylands.
The convention promotes good land stewardship and its end goal is to protect land from over-use and
drought, so it can continue to provide food, water and energy. Its 195 parties work together to improve
living conditions for people in drylands, to maintain and restore land and soil productivity, and to mitigate
the effects of drought.
UNCCD is particularly committed to bottom-up approach, encouraging participation of local people in

combating desertification and land degradation. Its secretariat facilitates cooperation between developed
and developing countries, particularly around technology and knowledge transfer for sustainable land
management.
UNCCD collaborates closely with other two Rio Conventions, Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
and United UN Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) as dynamics of land, climate and biodiversity
are intimately connected to meet these complex challenges with integrated approach.
SAARC Development Fund to launch Social Enterprise Development Programme
SAARC Development Fund (SDF) is going to launch social enterprise development programme (SEDP) as
part of its social window. The programme will be implemented in all SAARC member states with objective
of identifying and building social enterprises by using mix of grants and concessional returnable capital. It
intends to fund around 80 enterprises across the 8 SAARC member states (Afghanistan, Bangladesh,
Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) annually.
SAARC Development Fund (SDF)
SDF was established by heads of all eight SAARC member states during 16th SAARC summit at Thimphu,
Bhutan in April 2010. Its Governing Council comprises finance ministers of these eight countries. It is
successor of South Asian Development Fund (SADF), which was launched in 1996 by merging two existing
facilities called SAARC Fund for Regional Projects (SFRP) and SAARC Regional Fund. SDF’s Secretariat is
located at Thimphu, capital of Bhutan Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
SDF was created as umbrella financial mechanism for all SAARC developmental projects and programmes.
Its core objectives are to promote welfare of the people of SAARC region, improve their quality of life and
accelerate economic growth, social progress and poverty alleviation in the region. It funds projects in
South Asia region via three windows viz. Social Window, Economic Window and Infrastructure Window.
At present, only Social Window is in operation, the other two windows are yet to open.
Dhanush artillery gun clears third and final trials
The indigenously upgraded artillery gun Dhanush has successfully completed final user trials and is ready
for induction into Indian Army. During third and final phase of user exploitation firings conducted from
May 31 to June 7, 2018 at Pokhran field firing range, six Dhanush guns were fired in battery formation
with 301 rounds each. With this test, Dhanush artillery gun has been tested in all terrains
Dhanush
Dhanush is upgraded version of Swedish 155-mm Bofors howitzers, which India procured in the
mid-1980s, based on its original designs. It is also called desi Bofors. It is 155mm x 45mm calibre artillery
gun. It has been developed by Ordnance Factory Board (OFB), Kolkata based on requirements of Indian
Army and manufactured by Jabalpur-based Gun Carriage Factory (GCF).
Its armament system comprises a barrel, muzzle brake, breech mechanism and recoil mechanism to fire
155 mm calibre ammunitions. It has strike range of 38 kilometres (11 km more than imported Bofors guns)
with accuracy and precision. It provides greater fire power, depending on type of ammunition used. It also
has night firing capability in direct fire mode.
It has several significant advance features, including an all-electric drive, high mobility, quick
deployability, auxiliary power mode, advanced communication system and automated command and
control system. It has six round magazine, instead of standard three round. It weighs slightly more than
normal due to the larger chamber. Its 81% components are indigenously sourced and it will be scaled up to
90% by 2019. Its imported systems include power pack, parts of the electronic suite, and some seals and
bearings. Each of this gun costs about Rs 14.50 crore while each shell costs Rs. 1 lakh. Indian Army has
ordered 114 guns that will be delivered within four years.

Previous test Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |

The first phase of trials was conducted between July and September 2016 at Pokhran and Babina ranges.
The second phase was conducted between October and December 2016 at Siachen base camp with three
guns. Total of 1,520 rounds have been fired in all the three phases. During these trials, guns travelled
extensively in towed and self-propelled mode in desert and high-altitude terrains and each gun clocked
over 1,000 km, demonstrating their mobility.
COMCASA: US experts to discuss key military agreement with India
Team of specialists from US held meeting with their counterparts on Indian side in New Delhi to negotiate
text of Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), a foundational military
communications agreement. The meeting was held as part of preparations for 2+2 dialogue between
foreign and defence ministers of India and US scheduled to be held in Washington in July 2018.
Key Facts
This meeting has resumed talks on COMCASA and it will try to address India’s observations on it. India
was not keen on signing two other foundational agreements — COMCASA and Basic Exchange and
Cooperation Agreement for Geo-spatial Cooperation (BECA) after it had signed military logistics
agreement with US in 2016.
Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA)
COMCASA is one of three foundational agreements that guide US high technology cooperation in defence
sector with other countries. It was earlier called Communication and Information on Security
Memorandum of Agreement (CISMOA) before name was changed to reflect its India-specific nature. Other
two agreements are Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) and BECA.
COMCASA is meant to facilitate use of high-end secured communication equipment to be installed on
military platforms being sold to India by US to fully exploit their potential. It essentially provides legal
framework for transfer of communication security equipment from US to India that will facilitate
interoperability between armed forces of both countries and potentially with other militaries that use US-
origin systems for secure data links.
Interoperability in this case means that there will be access to encrypted and secret technologies or
communications. India is currently dependent on commercially available and less secure communication
systems on high-end US defence platforms like C-130Js and P8I maritime surveillance aircraft.
India’s Reservations
Officials from Defence ministry have held reservations about signing COMCASA as they fear US’s
intrusive access to Indian military communication systems. They also fear that indigenous Indian military
and large quantity of Russian-origin platforms may not be compatible with COMCASA.
Fourth Governing Council Meeting of NITI Aayog held in New Delhi
The fourth meeting of Governing Council of National Institute of Transforming India (NITI) Aayog was

held under the chairmanship Prime Minister Narendra Modi at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi. It was
attended by 23 Chief Ministers and Lieutenant Governor of Andaman & Nicobar Islands, apart from Union
Ministers, who are ex-officio members and special invitees.
Governing Council of NITI Aayog
The Governing Council is apex body of NITI Aayog tasked with evolving shared vision of national
development priorities, sectors and strategies with the active involvement of States in shaping
development narrative of the country. It is chaired by Prime Minister and comprises of Chief Ministers of
all States and Union Territories with Legislatures and Lt. Governor of Andaman and Nicobar Islands and
four Union Ministers as ex-officio members and three Union Ministers as Special Invitees. Governing
Council embodies NITI Aayog’s objectives of cooperative federalism, presents platform to discuss inter-
sectoral, inter-departmental and federal issues in order to accelerate implementation of national
development agenda.
Previous meetings
The first Meeting was held in February 2015 at which Prime Minister laid down key mandates of NITI
Aayog such as fostering cooperative federalism and addressing national issues through active
participation of States. The second Meeting was held July 2015 and third meeting in April 2017, which laid
down milestones in shaping country’s development agenda through strategy and vision documents.
June 19, 2018
COP CONNECT: Telangana Police launches app to support communication needs of police
Telangana Police has launched COP CONNECT’ mobile application to support the professional
communication and collaboration needs of entire police department of the state. It has been developed
based on Telangana State Police internal Communication strategy on lines of popular internet messaging
application WhatsApp.
COP CONNECT app
COP CONNECT app has all features of regular mobile messaging apps and is enabled for chatting, group
chats, file sharing (image, audio, video and documents) and location sharing. Using it different types of
groups can be created at state level, district and commissionerate levels, zonal level, sub-divisional level,
circle level and police station level. It will help in connecting over 60,000 police forces across 31 districts in
the state.
It will enable the entire police workforce of the state to pro-actively engage and pass real time information
in seconds and also consult each other so that they are able to play an active role in delivery of uniform
policing services across the state. It has end-to-end encryption with server being with Police Department
to ensure absolute security and confidentiality of internal Police communication. It also has iMeeting
feature which will help in creating and scheduling department meeting and setting reminders.
June 18: World Sustainable Gastronomy Day

The World Sustainable Gastronomy Day is observed every year on June 18 across the world. The day
acknowledges gastronomy as cultural expression related to natural and cultural diversity of the world. It
also reaffirms that all cultures and civilizations are contributors and crucial enablers of sustainable
development.
Gastronomy
It is study of relationship between food and culture. It is art of preparing and serving rich or delicate and appetizing
food, cooking styles of particular regions, and science of good eating.
Background
The World Sustainable Gastronomy Day was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)
by adopting resolution A/RES/71/246 in December 2016. Observance of this day, emphasizes need to focus
world’s attention on role that sustainable gastronomy can play, owing to its inter-linkages with three
dimensions of sustainable development in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by promoting
agricultural development, food security, nutrition, sustainable food production and conservation of
biodiversity.

Rani Rashmoni: Indian Coast Guard Ship commissioned in Visakhapatnam

Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has commissioned fast patrol vessel (FPV) ICGS Rani Rashmoni, in
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. It is fifth and last ship to be commissioned in the series of fast patrol
vessel (FPV) project of ICG. The ship will be based at Visakhapatnam under the administrative and
operational control of Commander, No.6 Coast Guard District Headquarters (Andhra Pradesh).
ICGS Rani Rashmoni
ICGS Rani Rashmoni has been designed and built by Hindustan Ship Yard Ltd. It is 51 metre long, 8.36
metre wide and weights 346-tonne. It is named after legendary Rani Rashmoni of Kolkata. It is equipped
with most advanced and sophisticated communication and navigational sensors and equipment.
The ship is propelled by three MTU 40000 series diesel engines of 2,720 KW capacity each coupled with
three Rolls Royce Kamewa jets. It can achieve a maximum speed of 34 knots (63kmph). It can perform
multifarious tasks such as surveillance, search and rescue, interdiction, anti-smuggling and anti-poaching
operations.
International Classification of Diseases: WHO classifies gaming addiction as mental health disorder
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified gaming addiction as mental health disorder in its
International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 11. This is as per draft of new document that was released in
December 2017. This classification will be used by health professionals across the globe to uniformly
diagnose and classify risks for addictive gaming
Vineet Singhbehaviour.
WHO definition of gaming addiction

WHO defines gaming disorder as pattern of gaming behaviour (video-gaming or digital-gaming)
characterized by impaired control over gaming, increased priority given to gaming over other activities to
such extent that gaming takes precedence over other interests and daily activities. It also includes
continuation or escalation of gaming despite occurrence of negative consequences. For its diagnosis,
behaviour pattern must be of sufficient severity to result in significant impairment in personal, family,
social, educational, occupational or other important areas of functioning and normally have been evident
for at least 12 months.
Need
Mental health experts and psychiatrists believe that internet and gaming addiction though affecting small
population now, has become emerging psychological malady and it is likely to be major mental health
problem in the coming years. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual (DSM) of Mental Disorders-V, a
diagnostic bible for mental health professionals published by American Psychiatric Association already
has classified gaming disorder as mental health condition. Nearly 7% of population studied for gaming and
internet addiction have exhibited depressive symptoms, somatisation and anxiety, including behavioural
changes and sleep disturbances.
International Classification of Diseases (ICD)
ICD is the international standard diagnostic tool for epidemiology, health management and clinical
purposes. Its full official name is International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health
Problems. It is maintained by WHO and is revised periodically.
ICD serves as foundation for identifying health trends and statistics worldwide. It is designed as health
care classification system to provide system of diagnostic codes for classifying diseases, including
nuanced classifications of wide variety of signs, symptoms, abnormal findings, complaints, social
circumstances and external causes of injury or disease.
It provides common language that allows health professionals to share health information across the
globe. It contains around 55,000 unique codes for injuries, diseases and causes of death.
It maps health conditions to corresponding generic categories together with specific variations, assigning
for these designated code, up to six characters long. It also promotes international comparability in
collection, processing, classification, and presentation of these statistics.
ICD-11
It will be presented at World Health Assembly in May 2019 for adoption by WHO member states, and it
will come into effect on January 1, 2022. It also has for first time added chapter on traditional systems of
medicine. This will pave way for such treatments to be covered by insurance as insurance

reimbursements based on ICD coding.

Indian Army to develop Jaisalmer Military Station as Smart Facility
The Indian Army has drawn detailed plan to develop Jaisalmer Military Station in Rajasthan as smart
facility patterned on Central Government’s Smart Cities Mission. The development plan will provide a
major boost to local economy and aid in ecological conservation.
Key Facts
The plan has been formulated in consonance with eight key areas identified by central government for
development of Smart Cities. It has provisions for rainwater harvesting, centralised garbage disposal,
solar-security lights, underground electric cabling, solar-water heaters, LED lighting and LPG supply
through pipelines.
Under this plan, Indian Army is undertaking systematic development of station by incorporating concept
of smart buildings and green building norms. State-of-the-art military hospital is also being developed to
give very-high priority to health of troops and their families.
The plan also gives special attention to preserve and develop ecological balance. It mandates special
ecology force for planting 1 lakh trees every year. Under it, herbal garden, the first in Jaisalmer has also
developed in the station.
The plan has provision for Central Sports Complex havig synthetic volleyball, tennis and basketball courts,
athletic track, squash and indoor badminton courts and gymnasium. It will also have astroturf hockey
ground. The centre of the station will also have auditorium, shopping complex and Sainik Institute located
for easy accessibility.
Current Affairs: News Headlines: June 19, 2018
Following are the key current affairs headlines in newspapers for June 19, 2018
INDIA
President Ram Nath Kovind meets his Greek counterpart Prokopis Pavlopoulos and PM Alexis
Tsipras in Athens
Central Water Commission (CWC) to collaborate with Google for flood forecasting and
dissemination of flood related information to the masses
European Union Film Festival begins in New Delhi, to be held in 11 cities and conclude on August 31
Indian Coast Guard Ship ‘Rani Rashmoni’ commissioned in Visakhapatnam
Goa Revolution Day celebrated on June 18
Army to develop Jaisalmer Military Station as smart facility on pattern of Smart Cities
Maharashtra: Social activist Pushpa Bhave selected to receive ‘Rajarshi Shahu Puraskar’ in Kolhapur
Telangana: ‘COP CONNECT’, a mobile app to support communication needs of the police
department, launched in Hyderabad
BJP President Amit Shah lays foundation stone of 19 new cancer hospitals in Guwahati
Noted social activist Jiten Chakraborty dies in Guwahati at 82
Finance, Business and Economy
BSE Sensex closes at 35548.26 points (–73.88), NSE Nifty at 10799.85 (–17.85)
Services exports in 2017-18 rose 8.8% to US$ 174.76 billion while services imports rose 10.2% to US$
105.21 billion; services trade surplus improved 6.6% to US$ 69.55 billion
Govt to expand its BPO promotion scheme for rural youth to 1 lakh seats, plans largest National Data
Centre in Bhopal
Yes Bank receives approval from market regulator SEBI for acting as custodian of securities
WORLD
41-year old Ivan Duque elected new President of Colombia
Martin Bregman, who produced Al Pacino-starrer cult hits “Scarface” and “Dog Day Afternoon”, dies
at 92
South Korea begins 2-days of war games to defend Dokdo islands against Japan
WHO includes “gaming disorder” as a mental health condition in its International Classification of
Diseases (ICD)
International Information and Communication Technology (ICT) 2018 held in Kathmandu on June

17-18
EU rolls over for another year tough sanctions imposed over Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea
from Ukraine
Sustainable Gastronomy Day observed on June 18
SPORTS
FIFA World Cup: Brazil-Switzerland Group E match ends in 1-1 draw at Rostov-on-Don, Sweden beat
South Korea 1-0 in Group F match at Nizhny Novgorod, Belgium beat Panama 3-0 in Group G match
at Sochi
Mexico’s Raia Marquez becomes only the third player to play at five World Cups
All India Badminton Senior Ranking Tournament in Bengaluru: Sourabh Verma (Men’s) and Sai
Uttejitha Rao (Women’s) win Singles titles
US golfer Brooks Koepka wins US Open title at the Shinnecock Hills Golf Course in New York.
Government to expand BPO promotion scheme for rural youth to 1 lakh seats
Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology (MeitY) is planning to expand its India BPO Promotion
Scheme to 1 lakh seats from current 48,000 seats. It will also set up 5th and India’s largest National data
centre (NDC) in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh with capacity of 5 lakh virtual servers. NDCs host government
websites, services and apps, are currently operational at four locations Pune, Hyderabad, Delhi and
Bhubaneswar. These initiatives will help to create new job opportunities and also ensure that people in
smaller towns find employment closer home.

India BPO Promotion Scheme (IBPS)
The scheme was approved under Digital India Programme to incentivize BPO/IT- ITES operations sector
in the country. It was launched in 2014. The scheme aims to incentivize establishment of BPO firms and
their extension to Tier II and Tier III cities (as per census 2011) to provide employment, distributed across
various states in proportion to population of state with financial support in form of Viability Gap Funding
(VGF).
The Software Technology Parks of India (STPI), an autonomous society of MeitY is nodal implementing
agency of the scheme. It will be implemented to incentivize setting up of BPO/ITES operations across the
country (excluding certain cities and north eastern states which are covered separately under North-East
BPO Promotion Scheme).
Objectives of IBPS
Create employment opportunities for the youth, by promoting IT/ITES industry particularly by
setting up BPO/ITES operations.
Promotion of investment in IT/ITES sector in order to expand base of IT Industry and secure
balanced regional growth.
Incentives: Under this scheme, financial support up to 50% of expenditure towards Capital Expenditure
(Capex) and/or Operational Expenditure (Opex) is provided subject to upper limit of Rs. 1 Lakh/seat.
Moreover, special incentives is given for employing women and persons with disability (PwDs),
employment generation beyond target and wider dispersal within state. It also gives special consideration
for hilly areas and rural areas and also to local entrepreneurs.
CWC, Google sign agreement for flood forecasting and dissemination of flood related information
Central Water Commission (CWC) has signed collaboration agreement with search engine giant Google
for flood forecasting and dissemination of flood related information to masses. This initiative will help
crisis management agencies to deal extreme hydrological events in better manner for effective flood
management in India under National Hydrology Project (NHP).
Key Facts
Under this collaboration, CWC will use state-of-the-art technological advances made by Google in field of
Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning and geo-spatial mapping for effective management of water
resources particularly in the field of flood forecasting and dissemination of flood related information to
masses widely using dissemination platforms developed by Google. Under this Agreement, CWC and
Google will share technical expertise to collaborate on
Improving flood prediction systems, which will help provide location-targeted, actionable flood
warnings,
High priority research project utilizing Google Earth to help visualize and improve flood
management.
Cultural project to build online exhibitions on Rivers of India.
Under this collaborative arrangement, Google will use high resolution Digital Elevation Model (DEM) and
vast computational resources and its technological expertise to generate flood inundation maps utilising
level forecast input provided by CWC. This information will be disseminated with lead time of up to 3
days. The inundation forecasting will be done trial basis for flood season of 2018 and it will be scaled up in
near future.
Significance
The collaborative arrangement will save of crore of rupees which would have been spent by government
on acquiring high resolution DEM, high end computational resources and developing dissemination
platforms widely used by masses.
This would enable Government as well as disaster management organisations to identify well in advance
locations and population, which are at risk from floods and require warnings and information. This
initiative is expected to be milestone in flood management and in mitigating the flood losses.
Central Water Commission (CWC) Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
CWC is India’s apex technical organization in field of water resources functioning under Union Ministry of Water
Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. It is mandated for initiating, coordinating in consultation of
State Governments, schemes for control, utilization and conservation of water resources throughout the country.
These schemes are meant for purpose of flood control, irrigation, navigation, drinking water supply and water power
development. It is
National Hydrology Project (NHP)

NHP was launched by Ministry of Water Resources in 2016-17. It is World Bank assisted central sector
scheme with pan India coverage. Its objective is to improve extent, quality and accessibility of water
resources information, decision support system for floods and basin level resource assessment and
planning and to strengthen capacity of targeted water resources professionals and management
institutions in India.
National Testing Agency to train paper setters
Union Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) has announced that National Testing Agency
(NTA) will train paper setters to set better question papers and provide better model answers. NTA was
set up to relieve Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) and other educational regulator bodies
from burden of conducting multiple examinations.
Key Facts
NTA is expected to conduct some of the examinations that CBSE has been conducting till now. It will take
over all examinations from the CBSE (except the 10th and 12th board examinations) from 2019 in phased
manner. It will be also conducting prestigious Joint Entrance Examination (JEE) for admission to
engineering colleges like IITs and NITs and National Eligibility Cum Entrance Test (NEET) for admission
to all medical and dental colleges in the country (except AIIMS and JIPMER, Puducherry).
National Testing Agency (NTA)
NTA was approved by Union cabinet in November 2017 as an autonomous and self-sustained premier
testing organization to conduct entrance examinations for higher educational institutions in India. It is
registered as society under Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860. It mandates is to conduct entrance
tests entrusted to it by any department or ministry and put in place a robust system for conducting of
examinations.
It is also mandated to bring high reliability and standardised difficulty level for assessing aptitude,
intelligence and problem-solving abilities of students. It will relieve CBSE, AICTE and other bodies of
responsibility of conducting entrance examinations. It is chaired by eminent educationist appointed by
Ministry of HRD. Its CEO will be Director General (DG) appointed by Government. Besides, it has Board of
Governors comprising members from user institutions.

Liberalised Remittance Scheme: RBI alters definition of relative to check outward remittances
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has narrowed the definition of relatives under the ‘maintenance of close
relative’ category of Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) to check outflow of funds and prevent misuse of
facility. Henceforth, funds under this category can be sent only to immediate relatives such as parents,
spouses, children and their spouses.
Key Facts
The definition of relatives under LRS has been now aligned with definition of relative with definition given
in Companies Act, 2013 instead of Companies Act, 1956. Outward remittances under maintenance of close
relatives had shot up to almost $3 billion in 2017-18 from mere $174 million in 2013-14. The funds sent
under this category have more than doubled since 2015-16. Overall outward remittances under LRS went
up to $11 billion from $1 billion in the same period. Earlier in June 2018, RBI had made PAN mandatory for
anyone using LRS for remitting money outside the country. Earlier PAN was not insisted upon for putting
current account transactions of up to $25,000.
Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS)
LRS is facility provided by RBI for all resident individuals including minors to freely remit upto certain
amount in terms of US Dollar for current and capital account purposes or combination of both. The
scheme was introduced in February 2004 and its regulations are provided under Foreign Exchange
Management Act (FEMA), 1999. After it was launched,
Vineet Singh the LRS
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | limit was US $25,000, but it has been
revised in stages consistent with prevailing macro and micro economic conditions. At present, LRS limit
for all resident individuals, including minors, is US $2,50,000 (Rs. 1.5 crore) per financial year.
Under LRS, individuals can make remittances for overseas education, travel, medical treatment,
maintenance to relatives living abroad, gifting and donations. The remitted money can be used for
purchase of shares and property as well. Individuals can also open, maintain and hold foreign currency
accounts with overseas banks for carrying out transactions under it.
Restrictions: Under LRS, remittances cannot be used for trading on foreign exchange markets, purchase
of Foreign Currency Convertible Bonds issued abroad by Indian companies and margin or margin calls to
overseas exchanges and counterparties. Similarly, individuals are not allowed to send money to countries
identified as ‘non cooperative jurisdictions’ by Financial Action Task Force (FAFT). It also prohibits
remittances to entities identified as posing terrorist risks.
Women bear uneven burden of family planning through sterilisation: NHM report
According to 11th report of Common Review Mission of National Health Mission (NHM), women bear
uneven burden in family planning as they account for more than 93% of sterilisations in the country. The
report was based on latest data from Health Management Information System (HMIS) where states upload
data on various parameters of NHM including sterilisations. CRM is an external evaluation of the flagship
NHM.
Key Highlights of Report
Women continue to bear uneven burden of terminal methods of family planning and sterilisation. In
2017-18 (till October) of the total 14,73,418 sterilisation procedures 93.1 % were female sterilisation
(tubectomies) and only 6.8 % were male sterilisation (vasectomy).
This is marginal improvement from earlier years when women accounted for 98% of all sterilisation in the
country. In 2015-16, of the total 41,41,502 sterilisations across India under government programmes,
40,61,462 were tubectomies. In 2014-15, out of 40,30,409 sterilisations, 39,52,043 were tubectomies.
The vasectomy or male sterilisation services still remain inadequately available across the country.
Despite efforts to make male sterilisation more acceptable, it was found that non-scalpel vasectomy
services are available in very few facilities and uptake is negligible in all states.
Vasectomy
Vasectomy or male sterilisation is process of cutting or tying vas deferens which is duct that carries
sperm from testes to urethra so that it cannot be released for fertilisation. It is easier process than
tubectomy (female sterilisation) which involves blocking or clamping of fallopian tubes so eggs do not
reach uterus.
Reasons for low male sterilisation

Reluctance of Indian men to undergo vasectomy or sterilisation stems from history, social taboo and
logistical limitations. Forced sterilisations during emergency have given this procedure of family planning
bad name. Moreover, misinformation about it robbing men of their strength has made it social taboo and
fact that there are no male health workers means these impressions cannot be corrected. Due to male
dominate nature of India society, it is also difficult for ASHA worker in village to talk to men about
sterilisation.
June 20, 2018
INDIA
BJP pulls out of its 3-year-old ruling coalition with the PDP. CM Mehbooba Mufti resigns. Governor
N. N. Vohra recommends imposition of President’s rule
Tri-service joint Russia-India military exercise Indra-2018 to be conducted in India in 2nd half of
2018
Centre constitutes Chief Ministers’ sub-group to coordinate policy approaches for agriculture and
MGNREGS with MP CM Shiv Raj Singh Chauhan as the convener
WCD Minister Maneka Gandhi launches the “Handbook on legal processes for Police in respect of
Crime against Children” Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Union HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar launches National Digital Library of India on National
Reading Day in New Delhi
Google launches training programme for journalists, aimed at raising awareness against
misinformation and fake news
Haryana to rank its panchayats on the basis of 7 social parameters under its 7-Star Gram Panchayat
Rainbow scheme
West Bengal: Visva-Bharati receives central grant of Rs 5 crore for setting up a ‘Yoga Gram’ in the
university campus
Telangana: Renowned mimicry artiste Nerella Venumadhav dies in Warangal at 85
ECONOMY & CORPORATE
BSE Sensex closes at 35,286.74 points (–261.52), NSE Nifty at 10,710.45 (–89.40)
RBI tightens norms for Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS) by making quoting of PAN mandatory
even for transactions below USD 25,000.
Government declares national targets for off-shore wind power: 5 GW by 2022 and 30 GW by 2030
Sandeep Bakhshi appointed Chief Operating Officer of ICICI Bank; N.S. Kannan is new MD & CEO of
ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Company
NASSCOM launches its ‘Women Wizards Rule Tech’ programme to increase the number of women
in senior levels in IT industry
Infosys sets up Digital Centre of Excellence in Marseille to strengthen its footprint in France
WORLD
South Korea and the US have decided to suspend the Ulchi Freedom Guardian (UFG) exercise slated
for August
Number of people forcibly displaced worldwide reaches a new high in 2017 at 68.5 million: UNHCR
International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict observed on June 19
There are over 1 billion firearms in the world today, including 857 million in civilian hands: Small
Arms Survey
Pakistan has more nuclear warheads than India: Stockholm International Peace Research Institute
(SIPRI)
India to construct a war memorial at Villers Guislain in France as tribute to Indian soldiers who died
in World War I
Microsoft acquires video discussion platform Flipgrid which is used by 20 million teachers and
students across the world
Kazuo Kashio, one of the four brothers who founded Japan’s Casio Computer Co, dies at 89
Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos is richest man in the world with a net wealth of $141.9 billion:
Forbes World’s Billionaires list
World’s oldest Sumatran orangutan dies aged 62 in a zoo in Perth, Australia
Actor Tim Robbins to receive Crystal Globe for Outstanding Contribution to World Cinema at
Karlovy Vary International Film Festival (KVIFF) in Czech Republic in July
SPORTS
FIFA World Cup in Russia: Belgium beat Panama 3-0 in Group G match in Sochi. Japan beat
Colombia 2-1 in a Group H match in Mordovia. England beat Tunisia 2-1 in Group G match in
Volgograd
Indian women’s hockey team beat Spain 4-1 in the 5th and final match in Madrid to level the series
2-2
IRDAI constitutes Suresh Mathur committee to review norms related to Insurance Marketing Firms
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDAI) has set up 10-member committee to review
norms related to Insurance Marketing Firms (IMF) with an aim to increase insurance penetration in the
country. The committee will be headed by Suresh Mathur (ED-IMF, IRDAI).
Terms of Reference
The committee has been asked to revisit IRDAI (Registration of Insurance Marketing Firms) Regulations,
2015. It will recommend guidelines on areas on which regulations
Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | of IMFs are silent. It will also
recommend measures for strengthening distribution channel of IMFs by taking up products which fall
under jurisdiction of other financial sector regulators.
Background
IMF’s new distribution channel was introduced by IRDAI in 2015, with objective of increasing insurance
penetration through area-wise registration approach. The channel has now been in operation for three
years. The committee was constituted to review existing regulations essential for distribution channel to
evolve and fulfil the objective of spreading insurance coverage to all layers of the society.
Insurance Regulatory Authority of India (IRDA)
IRDA is an apex statutory body that regulates and develops the insurance industry in India. It was
constituted as per provisions of Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act, 1999. It is
headquartered in Hyderabad. Telangana.
Functions of IRDA: It protects rights of insurance policy holders, provide registration certification to life
insurance companies and renew, modify, cancel or suspend this registration certificate as and when
appropriate. It also promotes efficiency in conduct of insurance business, promotes and regulates
professional organisations connected with insurance and reinsurance business. It also regulate
investment of funds by insurance companies, adjudicates disputes between insurers and intermediaries or
insurance intermediaries.
Indian Army to observe 2018 as Year of Disabled Soldiers in Line of Duty
Indian Army is observing year 2018 as “Year of Disabled Soldiers in Line of Duty” to honour soldiers who
have been disabled in line of duty. The primary focus of this initiative is to alleviate sufferings of these
soldiers, who have done their duty with utmost dedication to nation and have been disabled for the life.
Key Facts
The major endeavour of this initiative is to provide one-time financial assistance to disabled soldiers who
have been boarded out from service on medical grounds and are rendered non-employable due to their
medical or physical conditions.
Initiatives to be undertaken
Indian Army this year is planning create awareness on organizational support available to soldiers and
their dependents with respect to medical, rehabilitation, various beneficiary schemes of Central and State
Governments, vocational opportunities and along with assistance for their placement.
It is also planning to showcase talent of disabled soldiers by organizing sports and physical activities,
cultural events and their art exhibitions. It is also planning to felicitate disabled soldiers along with
selected organisations that are dedicated in their rehabilitation. It is also planning to gather due support
for unemployable disabled soldier and his family with initial financial support to ensure life of dignity
through partially-funded entrepreneurship venture.
Government declares national targets for off-shore wind power: 5 GW by 2022 and 30 GW by 2030
The Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE) has declared medium (5 GW by 2022) and
long-term (30 GW by 2030) targets for offshore wind power capacity addition. The offshore wind power
will add new element to already existing basket of renewable energy of the country.
Key Facts
The target set for offshore wind power is moderate in comparison to on-shore wind target of 60 GW and
its achievement of 34 GW and solar target of 100 GW by 2022. This is mainly because of challenges
considering difficulties in installing large wind power turbines in open seas. Moreover, offshore wind
turbines are of much larger dimensions and capacities than onshore turbines.
Globally the installation capacity of off-shore wind power is about 17 to 18 GW. It led by countries such as
UK, Germany, Denmark, Netherlands & China. Recent years have witnessed fall in off-shore wind tariff in
some of these markets.
Background
MNRE had notified National Offshore Wind Energy Policy in October 2015 for this sector. Under it,
Chennai based National Institute of Wind Energy (NIWE) was designated nodal agency to carry out
necessary studies and surveys before final bidding of offshore wind project sites. It also serves as single
window for facilitating necessary clearances required for development of offshore wind projects.
NIWE had identified southern tip of Indian Vineetpeninsula and west
Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | coast with good potential for off-shore
wind power. Moreover, preliminary studies were conducted are off coast of Gujarat and that of Tamil
Nadu for development of offshore wind power projects. It had had installed India’s first offshore LiDAR in
Gulf of Khambhat for measurement of wind resource and is collecting wind speed data from November
2017.
Indra 2018: Tri-service joint India-Russia military exercise to be conducted in India
The tri-service joint military exercise Indra-2018 between India and Russia will take place at Indian
military base in second half 2018. In this regard, Russian military delegation visited India to discuss
logistics of the exercise.
In this edition of exercise, combined military units of Russian Eastern Military District will participate in
military drills. Members of Indian defence forces were also involved in planning of the exercise which
included practical operations of units besides consumer services, catering and medical support for
Russian units. In addition, they also agreed on procedure for receiving and servicing of military transport
aircraft in India.
Background
INDRA military exercise was launched in 2003 as bilateral exercise between India and Russia to boost
cooperation and interoperability between navies of two countries. The name of the exercise INDRA has
been derived from INDia and RussiA. Till 2016, the bilateral exercises under INDRA were undertaken
between respective Armies, Navies and Air Forces of India and Russia by separately engaging with each
other without concurrent participation from other services. This exercise was transformed into tri-
services military exercise in 2017 and was for first time held successfully in October 2017 at Vladivostok,
Russia. It was India’s first joint tri-services exercise and also first between Russia and India. It was also
first time Russia has hosted tri-services military exercise on its soil.
Chief Ministers Subgroup constituted to Coordinate Policy approaches for Agriculture and MGNREGS
The Union Government has constituted Chief Ministers Subgroup to coordinate policy approaches for
agriculture sector and Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS). It
will submit its report within three months from its date of constitution.
Composition: Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh Shivraj Singh Chouhan will be its convener and CMs of
Andhra Pradesh, Gujarat, Bihar, West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh and Sikkim along with Member NITI Aayog,
Ramesh Chand as its members.
Background
CMs Subgroup formation comes in backdrop of vision of Central Government towards Doubling Farmers’
Income by 2022 which requires multi-dimensional and inclusive approach. It comes close on heels of
unanimous decision taken at 4th meeting of Governing Council of NITI Aayog chaired by Prime Minister

Narendra Modi. During the deliberations, it was suggested to come out with approaches with special
emphasis on pre-sowing and post-harvest interventions using MGNREGS, for creating durable assets that
will double incomes of farmers and reduce agrarian distress.
Terms of Reference of the Sub-Group
It will suggest wider choice of State specific interventions both for pre-sowing and post-harvest to
improve thrust on incomes, waste to wealth and water conservation. It will align works under MGNREGS
to requirements of achieving goal of Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022. It will help to improve thrust on
individual beneficiary schemes, water conservation, construction of rural haats, vermi-composting etc.
It will make recommendations on interventions of MGNREGS that can facilitate reduction of agrarian
distress including work availability, wage rates, seasonality etc. It will also explore possibilities of
MGNREGS as livelihood resource for development and diversification of livelihoods of small and marginal
farmers specially belonging to SC/ST households.
It will suggest ways of aligning MGNREGS and its livelihood thrust with women Self Help Groups (SHGs),
producer companies and producer groups to enable better use of resources for livelihood. It will explore
successful convergence of program resources across departments to ensure efficiency, effectiveness,
optimal fund utilization and sustainability.
Government launches National Digital Library of India
The Union Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) launched National Digital Library of India
(NDLI) on the occasion of National Reading Day (observed on June 17) in New Delhi. NDLI’s objective is to
make digital educational resources available to all citizens of the country to empower, inspire and
encourage learning.
National Digital Library of India (NDLI)
NDLI is project of Ministry of HRD under the aegis of National Mission on Education through Information
and Communication Technology (NMEICT) to develop a framework of virtual repository of learning
resources with a single-window search facility.
NDLI has been developed by Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Kharagpur. It is single window platform
that collects and collates metadata from premier learning institutions in India and abroad, as well as other
relevant sources. It is open to all at free of cost.
It is digital repository 17 million-plus items containing textbooks, articles, videos, audio books, lectures,
simulations, fiction and all other kinds of learning media) in 200-plus languages from more than 170
institutions.
It has been designed to hold content of any language and provides learning and research interface support
for leading Indian languages. It is arranged to provide support for all academic levels including
researchers and life-long learners from all disciplines and in all popular form of access devices and also to
differently-abled learners.
NHRR Project: Government launches India’s first Nationwide Healthcare Establishment Census
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched National Health Resource Repository
(NHRR) Project. It is country’s first ever healthcare establishment census to collect data of all public and
private healthcare establishments.
NHRR Project
NHRR Project aims to strengthen evidence-based decision making and develop platform for citizen and
provider-centric services by creating robust, standardized and secured IT-enabled repository of India’s
healthcare resources. The census will be conducted under Collection of Statistics Act 2008.
It will comprehensively collect information of both, private and public healthcare establishments
including Indian Railways, ESIC, Defence and Petroleum healthcare establishments. It will capturing data
on over 1,400 variables of over 20 lakh healthcare establishments like hospitals, clinics, doctors, diagnostic
labs, pharmacies and nursing homes.
The exercise will involve approximately 4,000 trained professionals who will approach every healthcare
establishment for information collection. For this census, Central Bureau of Health Intelligence (CBHI) has
been actively engaging with key stakeholders including leading associations, allied ministries and several
private healthcare service providers. Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is technology partner for

this project mainly for data security.

Expected outcomes of NHRR project
It will provide comprehensive data on all health resources including private doctors, health facilities,
chemists and diagnostics labs. It will establish NHRR for evidence based decision making – aligned with
Digital India mission. It will enhance coordination between central and state government for optimization
of health resources, making live and realistic state Project Implementation Plans (PIPs). It will also
improve accessibility of data at all levels, including State Head of Departments, thus, decentralize decision
making in healthcare sector at district and state level for effective implementation government policies. It
will enable advanced research towards ongoing and forthcoming healthcare challenges arising from other
determinants of health like – disease, environment etc.
7-Star Gram Panchayat Rainbow scheme: Haryana rank its panchayats on basis of 7 social parameters
Harayana Government has launched 7-Star Gram Panchayat Rainbow scheme to give star rankings to its
panchayats on the basis of seven social parameters. Under this scheme, as many as 1,120 villages of the
state have achieved rankings since its launch in January 2018. Ambala has topped star ranking followed by
Gurugram and Karnal.
Key Facts
Under this scheme, seven social parameters under which panchayats will be judged are sex ratio,
education, hygiene, environment preservation, governance and
Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | social participation. Stars of different
colours (mentioned below) are awarded to panchayats depending upon their performance in each
parameter.
Gram panchayats scoring maximum in all parameters will be recognized as Indradhanush Gram
Panchayats. They will get special grants for development works from Development and Panchayats
Department of the State Government depending upon their performance.
Villages winning six stars will be entitled to get additional developmental works worth Rs 20 lakh. Villages
with 5 stars rating will get additional developmental works worth Rs. 15 lakh. Villages with 4 stars will get
additional developmental works worth Rs 10 lakh.
Various Colour Stars
Pink star: It will be awarded to those panchayats that make outstanding performance in improving sex
ratio.
Green star: It is for protection of environment, white star for cleanliness,
Saffron star: It is for crime-free villages.
Sky colour star: It will be awarded to village that will have no drop out.
Golden star: It is for good governance.
Silver star: It will be awarded for participation in development of villages.
Rewards
Villages for achieving each parameter will be rewarded Rs 1 lakh. Villages having equal or more girl
population will be given Rs 50,000 as bonus with their reward money. Similarly, villages which adopt
Swachhta Mission will be given additional Rs 50,000 as reward.
Women Wizards Rule Tech programme launched by NASSCOM to increase number of women in senior
levels in IT industry
Indian IT industry’s apex body NASSCOM (National Association of Software & Services Companies) has
launched ‘Women Wizards Rule Tech’ programme to increase number of women in senior levels in
Information Technology (IT) industry. The programme was announced in March 2018 at Nasscom
Diversity and Inclusion Summit in Chennai as joint initiative by Nasscom Sector Skills Council and Data
Security Council of India.
Key Facts
The programme is designed to support women who are moving up in the career ladder and also pave the
way for potential leaders of the future. It will aid women techies in core technologies like IT-Information
Technology Enabled Services (ITES), product and research and development (R&D), Business Process
Management (BPM) sectors by equipping them with the skills required for an edge in their career
National Association of Software and Services Companies (NASSCOM)
NASSCOM is global non-profit trade association (organisation) of Indian Information Technology (IT) and
Business Process Outsourcing (BPO) industry. It facilitates business and trade in software and services
and encourages the advancement of research in software technology. It is registered under the Indian
Societies Act, 1860. Its headquarters are in New Delhi.
It has regional offices in Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Pune and
Thiruvananthapuram. The global IT trade body has over 2000 members, of which over 250 are companies
from the China, EU, Japan, US and UK. NASSCOM’s member companies are in the business of software
development, software services, software products, IT-enabled/BPO services and e-commerce.
9 nuclear countries have total 14,935 nuclear warheads: SIPRI
According to updated count by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), the number of
nuclear warheads with nine nuclear countries has reduced from 14,935 at start of 2017 to 14,465 at start of
2018. These nine countries are United States, Russia, Britain, France, China, India, Pakistan, Israel and North
Korea. SIPRI is an independent think tank that uses open sources to compile such data since 1966.
SIPRI’s report Highilgihts
Out of 14,465 nuclear warheads at the beginning of 2018, 3750 are actually deployed. This compared with
14,935 warheads at the start of 2017. Russia (with 6850 nuclear warheads) and US (with 6450 warheads)
hold 92% of world’s total nuclear warheads. However, they have long-term programmes under way to
replace and modernise their nuclear warheads and nuclear weapons production facilities.
World’s nuclear powers are reducing theirVineet
nuclear arsenals but they are also modernising, putting fresh
and worrying focus on strategic deterrence. The reduction is due to arms control commitments by US and
Russia in 2010 Treaty on Measures for Further Reduction and Limitation of Strategic Offensive Arms
(New START Treaty).
Britain has 215 nuclear warheads, France has 300, China has 280, India 130-140, Pakistan 140-150, Israel 80
and North Korea 10-20. These countries are either deploying or planning to deploy new nuclear weapons
system. North Korea also demonstrated unexpected rapid progress in testing of two new types of long-
range ballistic missile delivery systems for delivery of its nuclear weapons.
Governor’s Rule imposed in Jammu and Kashmir

President Ram Nath Kovind has given his assent to imposition of Governor’s rule in Jammu and Kashmir.
This is the eighth time in the last four decades J&K was put under Governor’s rule and third time under
J&K Governor N N Vohra tenure.
Key Facts
President’s approval comes after J&K Governor N N Vohra sent his report to President recommending
imposition of Governor’s rule in the state day after Mehbooba Mufti-led PDP-BJP government collapsed
with BJP ending the three-year-old alliance with PDP, prior to completion of six-year term of the current
Assembly which was going to end in March, 2021. No major political party showed interest in forming or
continuing any coalition for government in the state. With Governor’s rule, J&K Legislative Assembly has
been put under suspended animation.

Governor’s Rule in Jammu & Kashmir
In case of failure of constitutional machinery in any other state of India, President’s Rule is imposed under
Article 356 of the Constitution. But in case of J&K, as per Section 92 of state Constitution, Governor’s Rule
s imposed in the state only after the consent of the President of India in case of failure of constitutional
machinery for period of six months. During the Governors rule, State Assembly is either suspended or
dissolved. If the Constitutional machinery is not restored before the expiry of this six month period, the
provision of Article 356 of the Constitution of India are extended to J&K and the President’s rule is
imposed in the State.
June 21, 2018
INDIA
President Ram Nath Kovind meets his Surinam’s President Desire Delano Bouterse in capital
Paramaribo
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj calls on PM of Luxembourg Xavier Bettel in Luxembourg
City
J&K: Governor’s rule imposed; former Chief Secretary B. B. Vyas and anti-Naxal expert K. Vijay
Kumar appointed advisers to Governor N. N. Vohra

Vishwas Mandalik from Nasik and the Yoga Institute in Mumbai win Prime Minister’s award for
outstanding contribution for promotion and development of yoga
First batch of Kailash Mansarovar Yatra pilgrims cross over to China from Nathu-La Border route in
Sikkim
Tamil Nadu: AIIMS to be set up near Madurai at an estimated Rs 1,500 crore
Gujarat: Surat Smart City selected for ‘City Award’ for Implementation of Projects Under ‘India
Smart Cities Award’ 2018
Gujarat: World’s first International Centre for Humanitarian Forensics launched at Gandhinagar
Delhi: “Happiness Curriculum” to be introduced in Delhi’s govt. schools from the coming academic
session.
Punjab govt. launches ‘i-Hariyali’ app under ‘Mission Tandarust’ to enable people to order free
saplings
Assam: Rats nibble Rs 12.38 lakh cash inside ATM of SBI in Tinsukia town
Shillong selected as the 100th city to receive funding under the Centre’s Smart Cities Mission
19-year old Anukreethy Vas from Tamil Nadu crowned Femina Miss India 2018 in Mumbai
Music composer A. R. Rahman appointed as Brand Ambassador of the Sikkim government
ECONOMY & CORPORATE
BSE Sensex closes at 35,547.33 points (+260.59), NSE Nifty at 10,772.05 (+61.60)
Economic Offences Wing (EOW) arrests Bank of Maharashtra CMD Ravindra P. Marathe in a case of
Rs 3000 crore fraudulent loans extended to Pune’s DSK Group
SBI MD B. Sriram appointed MD & CEO of IDBI Bank
Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) Arvind Subramanian steps down from his post and will return to the
US
Delhi’s Indian Accent only Indian restaurant in world’s top 100 list compiled by William Reed
Business Media
Air India to introduce ‘Maharaja’ business class seats on international flights
WORLD
World Refugee Day observed on June 20
United States quits the United Nations Human Rights Council
Veteran director Martin Scorsese top get Lifetime Achievement Award at the Rome Film Festival in
October

SPORTS
FIFA World Cup: Russia defeat Egypt 3-1 in a Group-A match St. Petersburg, Portugal beat Morocco
1-0 Group B match in Moscow
England beat Australia by 242 runs to win 3rd ODI at Trent Bridge, Nottingham; take unbeatable 3-0
lead in 5-match series
England breaks own record for highest total in a men’s ODI with 481 for 6 against Australia at
Nottingham
Australian golfing great Peter Thomson dies in Sydney at 88
AR Rahman appointed as Brand Ambassador of the Sikkim government
Sikkim Government has appointed renowned music composer AR Rahman as Brand Ambassador of the
State for a year. In his new role, he will promote and project Himalayan state’s achievements nationally
and globally. Earlier Rahman was made state’s Brand Ambassador of tourism and business.
Sikkim, with its natural and pristine beauty, has over last two decades emerged as world famous eco-
tourism destination. It also has attained distinct identity of being first fully organic farming state of India.
AR Rahman
AR Rahman (full name Allah-Rakha Rahman) is one of the most globally popular Indian music icons. His
work is well known and renowned for inter mixing eastern classical music with electronic music and
traditional orchestral arrangements. He has won
Vineet Singh multiple international
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | awards including 2 Academy
Awards (famously known as Oscars), 2 Grammy Awards, BAFTA Award and Golden Globe Award. In 2010,
he was conferred country’s third highest civilian honour Padma Bhushan.
Punjab government launches ‘i-Hariyali’ app’ to increase state’s green cover
Punjab government has launched ‘i-Hariyali’ mobile application under ‘Mission Tandarust Punjab’ aimed
at increasing the state’s green cover. It will enable app users to order free plant saplings and help to save
the environment from pollution.
Key Facts
The app aims to inspire more and more people to plant maximum saplings during current monsoon
season so as to save environment from pollution hazards. Using it, users can book sapling of their choice, a
maximum of 25 per person, from nearby government nursery. It will ensure clean, green, healthy and
robust Punjab with active participation of people.
CUNPK: Training Course on Civilian Protection and Responsibility to Protect held in New Delhi
The pilot Training of Trainers (ToT) Course on Civilian Protection and the Responsibility to Protect (R2P)
was held at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi from June 18 to 22, 2018. It was jointly held by Centre for
United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK), India and Global Centre for the Responsibility to Protect.
Key Facts
The training course was attended by 30 officers including eight from friendly foreign countries. It is
designed for mid-level military officials from countries that are active troop contributing countries to UN
peacekeeping operations. It is targeted towards experienced trainers currently facilitating pre-
deployment training at respective peacekeeping training centres or officers with recent experience in
United Nations Peacekeeping Missions.
Centre for United Nations Peacekeeping (CUNPK)
CUNPK was set up in New Delhi, drawing on India’s vast experience in the field of UN Peacekeeping. It is
also repository of information on India’s involvement in UN Peacekeeping and is continuing to build and
update its research on peacekeeping related issues. It conducts International Training Capsules for
military contingent officers, military observers and staff and logistics officers. It regularly organizes
seminars, joint working groups (JWGs) and command post exercises at national and international level.
June 20: World Refugee Day
The World Refugee Day is observed every year June 20 to raise awareness of the situation of refugees
throughout the world. Observance of this day seeks to draw attention to the plight of refugees and also to
celebrate their courage and resilience and renew commitment to solve refugee problems. The theme for
World Refugee Day 2018 is “Now More Than Ever, We Need to Stand with Refugees.”
Refugees

United Nations 1951 Refugee Convention, defines refugees as those who have fled their country owing to well-
founded fear of persecution because of their race, religion, nationality, membership in particular social group or
political opinion. UN has revealed that record high of 68.5 million individuals have now been displaced worldwide
due to war, poverty, persecution and other events.
Key Facts
On this day, United Nations Refugee Agency (UNRA) also known as United Nations High Commissioner
for Refugees (UNHCR) hosts various events and announces theme for its campaign. With this, UNRA seeks
to draw public’s attention to the millions of refugees and internally displaced persons worldwide who have
fled their homes forcefully due to war, conflict and persecution.
Background
The World Refugee Day was proclaimed by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) h by passing
Resolution 55/76 on 4 December 2000. The resolution was passed to mark 50th anniversary of UN Refugee
Convention, 1951. Since then it is observed annually with different themes. Prior to passing of this
resolution in 2000, African Refugee Day was formally celebrated on 20 June in several countries especially
by Organization of African Unity (OAU) member states. The theme for year 2017 was “Embracing Refugees
to Celebrate our Common Humanity”.
The Parliament of Canada has passed Cannabis Act (or Bill
Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | C-45), a landmark law that legalizes
recreational use of marijuana (a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant intended for medical or
recreational use) nationwide. It makes Canada the first G7 country to legalise the drug’s recreational use
and the second to have a nationwide, legal marijuana market, after Uruguay (permitted in December 2013).
Key Facts
The law controls and regulates how the drug can be grown, distributed and sold. It allows adults to
possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis in public, but minimum legal age to buy and consume the drug
has been set federally at 18. It makes illegal to possess more than 30 grams of cannabis in public, grow
more than four plants per household and to buy from unlicensed dealer. It provides stringent penalty of
jail up to 14 years if someone caught selling drug to minor. With the passage of the bill, Canadians will be
able to buy and consume marijuana legally as early as September 2018.
Marijuana
Marijuana is greenish-gray mixture of dried, shredded leaves, stems, seeds and flowers of Cannabis sativa
– the hemp plant. Most people smoke marijuana, though it can also be used in other forms such as edibles,
powders and oils. It used for controlling pain for medical issues, like cancer, nervous system diseases,
glaucoma, migraines, etc and also used to treat nausea and improve appetites for people with HIV or other
chronic illnesses.
Cannabis is banned in most countries but number countries have started decriminalising its use in recent
years. It is legal for medicinal purposes in 14 European countries, Argentina, Israel, Puerto Rico, Mexico,
Panama, Turkey, Zambia and Zimbabwe. In the US, its medicinal use is allowed in 29 states and nine states
have legalised both medical and personal use. Spain, Netherlands, Slovenia, Portugal, Jamaica, Peru, Chile,
Colombia, Ecuador and Luxembourg are among countries that have relaxed legislation regarding personal
use of Cannabis.
India Smart Cities Award 2018: Surat Smart City selected for City Award for implementation of projects
Surat smart city from Gujarat was selected for ‘City Award’ for showing great momentum in
implementation of projects under India Smart Cities Awards 2018 especially in categories of urban
environment, transport and mobility and sustainable integrated development. Total nine awards in three
categories including Innovative Idea Award, Project Award, and City Award were announced by Union
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under India Smart Cities Awards 2018.
Other category winners
Innovative Idea award: Bhopal and Ahmedabad were jointly honoured for Integrated Command and
Control Centre (ICCC) and Safe and Secure Ahmedabad (SASA) Project, respectively. The award was given
to project and idea particularly remarkable for its innovative, bottom-up and transformative approach
towards achievement of sustainable integrated development.

Project awards: They were given to most innovative and successful projects in seven categories that have
been completed by April 1, 2018. Projects selected under it are
Governance category: PMC Care from Pune.
Built Environment category: Smart Place Making from Pune.
Social Aspects category: Smart Class rooms from NDMC and Jabalpur, Smart Campus from
Visakhapatnam, Lighthouse from Pune.
Culture and Economy category: B Nest Incubation Centre from Bhopal and Conservation of
Rajasthan School of Arts from Jaipur.
Urban environment category: Public Bike Sharing from Pune, Bhopal, Coimbatore and Waste to
Energy Plant in Jabalpur.
Transport and Mobility category: Integrated Transit Management System (TMS) from Ahmedabad
and Surat.
Water and Sanitation category: Smart Water Management through SCADA from Ahmedabad.
India Smart Cities Award
The award was launched in June 2017 with an objective to reward cities, projects and innovative ideas,
promoting sustainable development in cities. The award is given in 3 categories of viz. Innovative Idea
Award, City Award and Project Award. OnlyVineet
selected Smart Cities are eligible participants for the award.
Respective ULBs or Smart City SPVs need to submit proposals for this award.
Evaluation
The proposals submitted by ULBs/ Smart City SPVs are evaluated by technical committee of international,
multilateral experts from UN Habitat, Asian Development Bank (ADB) and National Institute of Urban
Affairs (NIUA) based on Innovation, Impact, and Replicability or Scalability. The City Award was decided
based on cities’ performance on their awards score and on weekly Ranking score. Equal weighting is given
to both.
World’s first International Centre for Humanitarian Forensics launched in Gandhinagar, Gujarat
The world’s first International Centre for Humanitarian Forensics was launched in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
The centre is joint venture of Regional delegation of International Committee of Red Cross (ICCR) in India,
Bhutan, Nepal and Maldives and also Gujarat Forensic Science University.
The humanitarian forensics plays significant and essential role during natural and manmade calamities which takes
place at regular intervals across world over and large number of people become victims of such calamities.
Key Facts
The centre will use forensics for humanitarian services to aid humanitarian efforts during emergencies
and natural disasters. It will assist in dignified and proper management of dead bodies during disasters or
emergencies and also help in their identification.
The centre will also conduct various academic and professional programmes, training and research and
als provide technical expertise to support operations in field of humanitarian forensics to authorities and
agencies concerned.
Gujarat Forensic Sciences University (GSFU) will run different courses both post graduate and post
graduate diploma courses in humanitarian forensics. The centre will also help to combine local and
international expertise to build capacities before tragedies hit people.
Gujarat Forensic Sciences University (GFSU)
GFSU is the world’s first and only University dedicated to Forensic and allied Sciences. It was established
by the Gujarat Government through act passed by state legislative assembly in September, 2008. It is
located Gandhinagar, capital city of Gujarat state. It became functional from July 2009 with various
courses, scientific programs and training modules.
The university is recognized by University Grants Commission (UGC) as State University under section 22
of UGC Act, 1956. Its objective is to fulfil acute shortage against increasing demand of forensic experts in
the country and around the world. It runs in parallel association with Directorate of Forensic Science
(DFS) Gujarat to provide hands-on training pertaining to various areas of forensic science, forensic
psychology and research and development.
United States quits United Nations Human Rights Council

The United States under President Donald Trump administration has announced its withdrawal from
United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) terming it hypocritical and self-serving. It has blamed
UNHRC for bias against Israel and refusing to eject members who are violators of human rights.
US had opted to stay out of UNHRC before also: The George W. Bush administration had opted against
seeking membership when the council was created in 2006. US joined the council only in 2009 under
President Barack Obama.
Comment
US withdrawal from UNHRC citing for its chronic bias against Israel could reinforce perception that
Trump administration is seeking to advance Israel’s agenda on world stage. Israel has been only country
in the world whose human rights record comes up for discussion at every UNHRC session, under “Item 7”
on the agenda. Item 7 on “Israel and Occupied Palestinian Territories” has been part of UNHRC’s regular
business almost as long as it has existed. Moreover, with US withdraw, the council will be left without one
of its traditional defenders of human rights. In recent months, US has participated in attempts to pinpoint
human rights violations in places like South Sudan, Congo and Cambodia.
Background
Since President Donald Trump took office in January 2017, US has announced its withdrawal from UN-
backed 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, left UN educational
Vineet Singh and |cultural organization and pulled out of Iran
nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action). Other contentious moves taken by Trumph
administration are slapping tariffs on steel and aluminum against its key trading partners, recognizing
Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and moving US Embassy there from Tel Aviv.
United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
UNHRC is an inter-governmental body within United Nations system. It is responsible for strengthening
promotion and protection of human rights around globe and for addressing situations of human rights
violations and make recommendations on them.
It was created by UNGA on 15 March 2006 by adopting resolution 60/251 to promote human rights
globally. It had replaced former UN Commission on Human Rights. It is headquartered in Geneva,
Switzerland.
Members: UNHRC is made up of 47 UN member states which are elected by UN General Assembly
(UNGA) with specific number of seats allocated for each region of the globe. Members serve for three-year
terms and can serve only two terms in a row.
Functions: Members of the council work to engage countries on improving human rights. They make
decisions ranging from exposing violations to recommending that UN Security Council make referral to
International Criminal Court (ICC). UNJRC does not have authority to take action but can exert significant
pressure on violating country. It can also set up special rapporteurs with mandate to investigate and
report human-rights violations and abuses.
June 22, 2018
INDIA
4th International Yoga day celebrated on June 21 with “Yoga for Peace” as its theme
Rajasthan: 1.6 lakh people in Kota set Guinness World Record for ‘largest number of people
performing yoga at one place at the same time’
PM Modi performs yoga at Dehradun, President Kovind marks Yoga day in Paramaribo, Suriname
Haryana CM Manohar Lal Khattar announces to set up a ‘Yog Aayog’ in the state
HRD Ministry approves setting up an inter-university yoga centre at Swami Vivekananda Yoga
Anusandhana Samsthana in Bengaluru
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj meets President of European Commission Jean-Claude
Juncker in Brussels
ECONOMY & CORPORATE
BSE Sensex closes at 35,432.39 points (–114.94), NSE Nifty at 10,741.10 (–30.95)

India increases duties on a slew of farm products, steel and iron imported from the US in retaliatory
action against President Donald Trump’s tariff hikes on steel and aluminium
TRAI announces name, logo design contest for public Wi-Fi networks
Spiritual guru Sri Sri Ravishankar’s consumer goods venture Sri Sri Tattva launches apparel brand –
BYOGI
WORLD
World Music Day celebrated on June 21
US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order to keep together immigrant families who
have been detained at the border with Mexico
Veteran Pakistani diplomat and Jamsheed Marker dies in Karachi at 95, listed in the Guinness Book
of World Records under the title of “World’s longest-serving ambassador” and also being the
“ambassador to more countries than any other person”
Mushtaq Ahmed Yousufi, celebrated Urdu satirist and humourist, dies in Karachi at 94
Koko, the gorilla who mastered sign language, dies at 46 in California
NASA’s Curiosity rover captures photos of dust storm on Mars
Paul Polman, CEO of Unilever, to succeed Sunil Bharti Mittal as Chairman of International Chamber
of Commerce (ICC)
SPORTS Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
FIFA World Cup in Russia: Australia-Denmark draw 1-1 in a Group C match in Samara, Spain beat
Iran1-0 in Group B match in Sochi
Badminton player Kidambi Srikanth named Sports Illustrated ‘India’s Sportsperson of the Year’
International Yoga day: June 21
The 4th International Yoga day was celebrated on June 21, 2018 across the world to raise awareness
worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga. The theme this year was “Yoga for Peace”. The day’s
celebration in India were led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi from Dehradun, Uttarakhand. He was
joined by joined thousands of volunteers, who performed Yoga asanas in the lawns of Forest Research
Institute (FRI), Dehradun.
International Yoga Day (IYD)
The idea of celebrating the International Yoga Day was pitched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at
United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) in September 2014. Later in December 2014, UNGA
unanimously (endorsed by record 175 member states) adopted India-led resolution (69/131) to observe 21st
June as International Day of Yoga.
This resolution was adopted under agenda of UN’s ‘Global Health and Foreign Policy’. The date 21st June
was selected because it represents one of the two solstices and is the longest day in Northern Hemisphere
(summer solstice) which has special significance in many parts of the world. The first International Yoga
Day (IYD) was celebrated across the world on 21 June 2015.
Yoga
Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that originated in India. The word yoga derives
from Sanskrit which means to join or to unite, symbolizing union of body and consciousness. Yoga if it is
practiced by all on daily basis in the early morning has numerous health benefits. The benefits of Yoga
include increased muscle strength and tone, increased flexibility, improved respiration, energy and
vitality. It also helps to maintain balanced metabolism, reduces weight, improves cardio and circulatory
health and improves athletic performance. It was inscribed in the representative list of Intangible
Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in December 2016.
India notifies higher tariffs on 29 items imported from US
India has notified higher tariffs on 29 items imported from United States (US). This is was in retaliation
against US announcement imposing tariffs on steel and aluminium items — 25% and 10% respectively —
imported from all countries except Canada and Mexico in March 2018 to compensate from loss of revenue.
Key Facts
The 29 items includes agricultural products such as almonds, apples, chickpeas, lentils, and walnuts, and
industrial inputs such as some grades of iron and steel products. These higher tariffs amounting to $240

million will come into effect from August 2018, leaving room for further discussions between US and India
before new rates are implemented. It follows India’s notification to World Trade Organization (WTO) that
it was imposing additional tariffs on 30 items in retaliation for US duty on steel and aluminium. These
additional duties were aimed at helping government earn an additional $241 million, equivalent to amount
of iron and steel trade affected by US measures. The latest notification does not mention tariff hike on 800
cc (or more) motorcycles as it was earlier notified in 30 items list to WTO.
World’s hungry population on rise again due to conflict, climate change: UN report
According to United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 2018 report, number of hungry people
in world has risen for first time in more than decade. There are now approximately 38 million more
undernourished people in the world, rising from 777 million in 2015 to 815 million in 2016.
The report is an overview of progress towards achieving 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development (SDG), which
consists of 17 goals and 169 targets. It was adopted at t UN Sustainable Development Summit on September 25,
2015. The deadline to meet them is 2030.
Key Highlights of report

Key Factors for rinsing Hunger: Conflict, drought and disasters linked to climate change are among the
key factors causing this reversal in progress. Violent conflict is now one of the main drivers of food
insecurity in 18 countries and it has led to the forced displacement of record high 68.5 million in 2017.
Improvements: The number of people living on less than $2 a day declined from 26.9% of the world’s
population in 2000 to 9.2% in 2017. The mortality rate for children under five has dropped by almost 50%
the least developed countries.
South Asia: The region (which also includes India) has seen child marriage rates plunge, with girl’s risk of
getting married in childhood dropping by 40% from 2000 to 2017. The water stress levels for many
countries in region are above 70%, indicating fast-approaching water scarcity. More than nine out of 10
people living in urban areas around world are breathing polluted air, with southern Asia scoring worst in
this area. While electricity and sanitation deficits in south Asia are still poor, but efforts are being made to
close the gap.
Need to achieve deadline: Just 12 years left to 2030 deadline, achieving 2030 SDG Agenda requires
immediate and accelerated actions by countries along with collaborative partnerships among
governments and stakeholders at all levels.
India, US to hold inaugural 2+2 Dialogue in July 2018 in Washington. DC
The inaugural India, United States 2+2 Dialogue will be held on July 6, 2018 in Washington. DC, capital city
of US. The dialogue will focus on strengthening strategic, security, and defence cooperation as both
countries jointly confront global challenges. It is seen as a vehicle to elevate the strategic relationship
between two countries.

Key Facts
In inaugural 2+2 Dialogue, US Secretary of State Michael R. Pompeo and Secretary of Defense James
Mattis will host External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.
Under it, both countries are expected to share perspectives on strengthening their strategic and security
ties and exchange views on range of bilateral, regional and global issues of mutual interest.
2+2 Dialogue
The new dialogue format was agreed to between two countries during visit of Prime Minister Narendra
Modi to US in June, 2017. It will replace earlier India-US Strategic and Commercial Dialogue. It is similar to
India-Japan 2+2 dialogue format between foreign and defence secretaries of the two countries.
The 2+2 Dialogue between US and India aims enhance strategic coordination between both countries and
maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. It will put strategic, defence and security
relationship between the two countries at the forefront and centre stage.
It will enhance strategic coordination between the two nations and also elevate strategic consultations
between both countries. It will insulate India-US strategic relationship from feuds over trade issues and
deep divide on economic integration policies as trade and commercial issues were discussed in Strategic
and Commercial Dialogue earlier.
Government releases draft on cross-border insolvency resolution
The Ministry of Corporate Affairs has releasedVineet Singh draft on cross-border
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | insolvency in order to strengthen
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC). It will help banks access overseas assets of company undergoing
resolution. Similarly, Indian authorities will also be required to cooperate with foreign creditors to
domestic company.
Need
The existing IBC provides for two Sections –234 and 235 relating to cross border insolvency but these are
not adequate to effectively deal with default cases of domestic corporate debtor having assets and
operations outside India. In many of ongoing cases under IBC, several companies have assets and
operations outside India, for which legal framework is required to deal assets overseas.
Existing provisions only allow Central government to enter into agreement with foreign country for
enforcing provisions of Code. Second, the government can issue a letter of request to country outside
India seeking information. The draft norms have now been issued to plug these loopholes and have any
effective resolution mechanism in place for cross-border insolvency.
Key Facts
The draft on cross-border insolvency favours adoption of UNCITRAL (United Nations Commission on
International Trade Laws) Model Law on Cross-Border Insolvency, 1997. Under it, central government
after entering into agreement with other countries may bring overseas asset of domestic corporate debtor
into consideration of insolvency resolution in India. Initially, cross border insolvency framework will apply
only to corporate debtors, but later it will be extended to cases of personal insolvency resolution as well.
UNCITRAL Model Law on Cross-Border Insolvency, 1997
On global scale, this model law envisages balance between liquidation and reorganisation of global
companies going in for resolution. It has emerged as most widely accepted legal framework to deal with
cross-border insolvency issues while ensuring least intrusion into country’s domestic insolvency law. Due
to growing prevalence of multinational insolvencies, the model law has been adopted by 44 States till date,
including Singapore, UK, and US.
Government bans two affiliates of al Qaeda and IS under UAPA
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has banned al Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) and Islamic State
in Khorasan Province (ISKP) under anti-terror law, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967.
AQIS is an affiliate of al Qaeda and ISKP is Afghanistan wing of Islamic State (IS).
Key Facts
al Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS): It is terrorist organisation, which has committed acts of
terrorism in India’s neighbouring countries. It has been promoting and encouraging terrorist acts on
Indian interests in Indian sub-continent. It has been attempting radicalisation and recruitment of youth
from India. It has been pushing several provocative messages on social media platforms. It was created in
August 2014 and is led by an Indian, Maulana Asim Umar, who was later identified as Uttar Pradesh
resident Sanaul Haq.

Islamic State in Khorasan Province (ISKP): It promotes and encourages terrorism in Indian sub-
continent. It has been committing terrorist acts to consolidate its position by recruiting youth for global
jihad and to achieve objective of establishing its own caliphate by overthrowing democratically elected
governments. It considers India and Indian interests as its targets and is engaged in radicalising and
recruiting Indian youth for terrorist activities. ISKP came into existence in 2015 and mainly comprises
defectors from Tehrik-i-Taliban (TTP).
Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967
UAPA is anti-terrorist law aimed at effective prevention of unlawful activities associations in India. Its
main objective is to make powers available for dealing with activities directed against integrity and
sovereignty of India. It bans certain terrorist associations, punishes membership and association with
such organizations and punishes terrorist activities. The law been legislated to impose reasonable
restrictions in interests of sovereignty and integrity of India on exercise of freedom of speech and
expression, to assemble peaceably without arms and to form associations.
June 23, 2018
Use of AADHAAR biometric data for criminal investigation is not permissible: UIDAI
The Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has notified that use of Aadhaar biometric data for
criminal investigation is not allowed underVineet
Aadhaar Act, 2016.| This comes after National Crime Records
Bureau (NCRB) Director Ish Kumar made strong pitch for police to be provided with limited access to
Aadhaar data to aide them in catching first-time offenders and for identification of unidentified bodies.
UIDAI’s Notification
As per Section 29 of the Aadhaar Act, the biometrics data collected by UIDAI can be used only for purpose
of generating Aadhaar and for authentication of identity of Aadhaar holders and cannot be used for any
other purpose. The very limited exception to this is allowed under Section 33 of Aadhaar Act, which
permits use of or access to Aadhaar biometric data in cases involving national security only after pre-
authorisation by oversight committee headed by Cabinet Secretary. This is also consistent stand taken by
Union Government in ongoing Aadhaar case in the Supreme Court. Based on this legal stance, UIDAI has
never shared any biometric data with any crime investigating agency.
Background
The NCRB Director at the 19th All India Conference of Directors of Finger Prints Bureau in Hyderabad had
said that limited access to Aadhaar data was needed to be given to police for purpose of catching first time
offenders and for identification of unidentified bodies. At present around 50 lakh cases were registered
every year in the country and most of them (80 to 85%) are committed by first time offenders who leave
their fingerprints, which are available in police records. So there is need for access to Aadhaar data to
police for purpose of investigation.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi lays foundation stone of Vanijya Bhawan
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone of Vanijya Bhawan, a new office complex in New
Delhi for the Department of Commerce. Vnijya Bhawan will help in ease of doing business by bringing all
Departments of Commerce under one roof.
Key Facts
The complex is located near India Gate and is being built on plot of 4.33 acres, belonging to erstwhile
Directorate General of Supplies and Disposals (DGS&D). It will be built at an estimated cost of Rs 226 crore
and is expected to be completed by December 2019. The building will be a modern, eco-friendly structure.
It will be completely paperless office with modern facilities such as smart access control, video
conferencing and completely networked systems.
Indian Army Contingent part of UN peacekeeping mission in South Sudan awarded
The Indian Army contingent comprising of 7 Garhwal Rifles Infantry Battalion Group was awarded United
Nations Medal for “selfless service”. The contingent is part of the United Nations Mission in South Sudan
(UNMISS) in South Sudan. It has been complimented for carrying out numerous operational tasks with
utmost professionalism and dedication to the UN mandate. It has played an active and decisive role in
ensuring peace and stability in violence hit Jonglei State of South Sudan.

Background
South Sudan had gained independence from Sudan in 2011, making it the newest nation in the world. Civil
war had broken out in infant nation in 2013. The UN Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS) is newest UN
Peacekeeping Mission. India, with 2,237 troops, is the highest contributor in terms of troops to UNMISS.
In addition to India, 53 nations from around the world have contributed troops to the peacekeeping
mission.
India and UN Peacekeeping
The Indian Army is the largest cumulative troop contributor to United Nations Peacekeeping Missions
mandated to maintain stability and negotiate peace settlement in turbulent regions of the world. So far
India has provided almost 200,000 troops in nearly 50 of the 71 UN peacekeeping missions over the past
six decades, including 14 of the current 16 missions. Last year, 7,606 Indian peacekeepers were deployed in
UN missions.
Mongolia launches construction of its first oil refinery with $1 billion Indian aid
Mongolia has launched construction of its first strategically important oil refinery funded by India in
southern Dornogovi province. The ground-breaking ceremony of long-awaited project was attended by
Mongolian Prime Minister Khurelsukh Ukhnaa and Indian Minister of Home Affairs Rajnath Singh.
Key Facts
The refinery will be capable of processingVineet1.5Singh
million tonnes of crude oil per year. That is about 30,000
barrels per day (bpd). It planned for completion in late 2022. On completion, it will meet all of the nation’s
demand for gasoline, diesel, aviation fuel and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG).
The cost of the refinery is estimated at $1.35 billion, and it will include a pipeline and its own power plant.
Its financing is part of $1 billion soft credit line agreement between Mongolia and Export-Import Bank of
India, made during 2015 official visit by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The refinery will process Mongolia’s own crude oil, which is now sold to China. The large landlocked
country wedged between giants China and Russia had produced 7.6 million barrels of oil in 2017, about
21,000 bpd, amounting to 6% of its total export earnings.
Significance
The strategically important oil refinery will make Mongolia independent from energy imports and
stabilise fuel and commodity prices in its domestic markets. It is expected to boost Mongolia’s gross
domestic product (GDP) by 10%. It will end country’s dependence on Russian fuel as it imported almost 1.5
million tonnes of oil products in 2017, virtually all from Russia, thus diversifying its sources of oil products
from the current single source. The refinery is expected to increase Magnolia’s crude oil output, helping it
to increase its export earnings. The refinery project is also considered as important milestone in bilateral
ties between India and Mongolia.
Government to make 24 degrees celsius as default setting for air conditioners
The Union Ministry of Power is considering making 24 degrees celsius as mandatory default setting and
labeling of air conditioners within few months. This has been planned after six months campaign was
launched to promote energy efficiency in the area of air-conditioning.
Key Facts
The campaign was launched on voluntary basis to increase awareness and encourage consumers to adopt
the guidelines. It will result in substantial energy savings and also reduce greenhouse gas emission. Every
one degree increase in temperature of air-conditioner results in saving of 6% of electricity consumed.
After 4-6 months of awareness campaign, followed by survey to gather public feedback, Ministry of Power
will consider proposal of making labeling of optimum temperatures in ACs mandatory. Labeling of
optimum temperature setting of air conditioners by manufacturers will benefit of consumers, both from
the financial and health point of view. It will also result in savings of 20 billion units of electricity per year.
Scientific reasons
The normal human body temperature is approximately 36-37 degree Celsius. Lower temperature around
18-21 degree Celsius controlled by air conditioners especially in large number of commercial
establishments such hotels and offices is not only uncomfortable but is also unhealthy. Setting lower
temperature in the range of 18-21 degree Celsius compels people to wear warm clothing resulting in
wastage of energy.
June 25, 2018

PM approves setting up of E Sreedharan committee to lay down standards for metro rail systems
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved setting up of committee to lay down standards for metro rail
systems in the country. The committee will be headed by E Sreedharan (famously known as metro man of
India) who is credited for changing face of public transport in India with his leadership in building Konkan
Railway and Delhi Metro.
Key Facts
The committee will recommend standardisation norms for various components of Metro rail systems that
are currently imported. It look into all aspects rather that than evolving standards for each component
separately. It will come up with uniform standards for various components that will be followed by metro
rail systems across the country.
Significance
The uniform standards for metro rail systems across the country are aimed at cutting costs in
construction and operation of metro rail systems in the country. It will aid in manufacturing of various
components of metro rail systems domestically, giving boost to government’s Make in India policy. It will
bring India to international standard, where every metro has same standards, same signaling system and
track gauge, etc.
India, Cuba sign two MoUs
India has signed two Memorandum of understandings (MoUs) with Cuba to enhance cooperation in
biotechnology and traditional medicine. The MoUs were signed after delegation-level talks between
President Ram Nath Kovind and his Cuban counterpart Miguel Mario Diaz-Canel in Havana, Cuba.
President Ram Nath Kovind visited Cuba as last leg of his three-nation visit to Greece, Suriname and Cuba.
During the delegation level talks both countries agreed to enhance cooperation in biotechnology,
renewable energy and traditional medicine. Cuba reaffirmed its support to India’s candidature for
permanent seat in United Nations Security Council (UNSC).
Key Facts
MoU on Traditional Systems of Medicine: It aims to increase cooperation in traditional medicine and
homeopathy between both countries.
MoU on Bio Technology: It aims to deepen collaboration on biotechnology between both countries. It was
signed between BioCubaFarma, Cuba’s state company for pharmaceutical and biotechnology products,
and India’s Kalam Institute of Health Technology.
Day of the Seafarer: June 25
The Day of the Seafarer is being observed every year on 25 June across the globe as an expression of
thanks to the seafarers for their contribution to the economy and civil society of the world. It also
acknowledges the risks and personal costs endured by seafarers while being in their jobs.
The theme for year 2018 is ‘Seafarers wellbeing’. It highlights issues of seafarers wellbeing, particularly
mental health. It deals with specific strategies to tackle stress and other issues affecting seafarers mental
conditions and make tools available more widely known.
Background
The Day of the Seafarer was designated by International Maritime Organisation (IMO) in 2010. It was
established in resolution adopted by 2010 Diplomatic Conference in Manila to adopt revised Standards of
Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW)Convention, 1978. For the first time it was
observed in 2011 and since then it is observed annually. It has also been included in the list of observances
by United Nations. The day acknowledges that almost everything that we use in our daily lives has been
directly or indirectly linked with sea transport. A per IMO, around 90% of the world’s goods trade is
carried out through ships.
Credit Rating Model: Government testing big data system to aid banks assess credit risks
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) is testing credit rating model, a new system
that will assist banks in assessing credit risk and probability of fraud using big data analysis. The system
is expected to help banks, particularly rural and cooperative banks, tackle the issue of rising
nonperforming assets (NPAs). Currently, rural and cooperative banks depend on judgement of bank
manager, resulting in high NPAs and frauds. A credit rating model can assist banks to quantify risks
under the big data context.

Key Facts
The MeitY sponsored project includes Reserve Bank of India (RBI), Bangalore-based IT firm Processware
System and two cooperative banks as partners. The project is aimed at helping banks quantify risks
associated with retail loans such as personal loans, gold loans and vehicle loans.
Under this project, a statistical and machine learning algorithmic model has been developed to predict
probability of default with aim to reduce NPAs. It will also help in predicting different types of frauds in
banking sector based on RBI guidelines. Besides, a web-enabled software is also being tested to assist
banks to easily adopt models for credit rating, NPAs and fraud. Validation of these models has been done
using data from several banks.
AIIB to invest $200 million into NIIF to boost infrastructure projects
The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has approved investment of $200 million in India’s
National Investment & Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) to give greater impetus to mega infrastructure projects.
It will be investing US $100 million now and remaining $100 million in the time to come.
India: largest recipient of AIIB
AIIB so far approved $4.4 billion investments in 25 projects. Of these investments, $1.2 billion have been
approved for six infrastructure projects in India, making it largest recipient of funds from the multilateral
agency. AIIB is China led multilateral development bank set up |in 2016. Its purpose is to provide finance to
infrastructure development and regional connectivity projects in Asia-Pacific region. It has 83 member
nations. India is second largest shareholder in AIIB after China. It is headquartered in Beijing, China.
National Investment and Infrastructure Fund (NIFF)
NIIF was set up in December 2015 to catalyse funding into the country’s infrastructure sector. It has been
registered with the Securities and Exchange Board of India as a Category II Alternate Investment Fund. It
has been set up as a fund of funds structure with aim to generate risk adjusted returns for its investors
alongside promoting infrastructure development.
It has targeted corpus of Rs 40,000 crore to be raised over the years — 49% of it will be funded by
government at any given point of time. The remaining 51% will be raised from domestic and global
investors, including international pension funds, sovereign wealth funds, multilateral/bilateral investors.
Its Governing Council is chaired by Finance Minister and has already been set up to act as an advisory
council to the NIIF.
CORPAT: India, Bangladesh navies institute annual coordinated patrol
India and Bangladesh have agreed to institute Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT) as an annual exercise
between navies of two neighbouring countries. The first edition of CORPAT between two navies was
inaugurated by Indian Navy’s Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba during his visit to Bangladesh. The aim Navy
Chief’s visit was to consolidate bilateral defence relations between India and Bangladesh and to explore
new avenues for naval cooperation.
Key Facts
The first edition of joint patrol exercise CORPAT was held undermilitary cooperation of both countries. It
saw participation of four maritime patrol aircraft, two from Bangladesh Navy and two from Indian navy,
and four frigates, two from Bangladesh Navy (BNS Dhaleswari and BNS Abu Bakar) and two from Indian
navy (INS Kadmatt and INS Satpura). During the joint patrol, naval forces of both the countries shared
information through naval communication and understanding. The warships and patrol aircraft jointly
patrolled from Bangladesh’s sea territory and sailed towards the Indian waters in Bay.
Significance
The institution of CORPAT between India and Bangladesh is considered as major step towards enhanced
operational interaction between both navies. The joint patrol will help to curb maritime crimes, including
militancy in sea, and stop various sea crimes like smuggling and piracy in Bay of Bengal. At present, both
naval forces are patrolling their respected water territories round-the-clock on individual purpose.
Background
Indian Navy regularly conducts CORPATs with Indonesia, Thailand and Myanmar. It also conducts EEZ
(Exclusive Economic Zone) surveillance of Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles on their request. . The
CORPAT exercise between navies carries out search and rescue operations, institutes measures for vessels
indulged in unlawful activities as well as control pollution.

The naval cooperation between India and Bangladesh has been traditionally strong and encompassed wide
span which includes operational interactions through port calls, passage exercises along with capacity
building, capability enhancement and training initiatives. Over last few years, Indian Navy has expanded
its assistance to countries in the region through material support, training, EEZ surveillance,
hydrographic assistance, provisioning of platforms, joint exercises and offering slots in professional
training courses.
RemoveDEBRIS: First satellite to demonstrate technology to clean up space junk deployed
The first satellite named RemoveDEBRIS was successfully deployed from International Space Station (ISS)
and to demonstrate a range of innovative technologies to clean up space debris orbiting Earth. It was
transported to ISS via SpaceX CRS-14 launch in early April 2018. The satellite was designed, built and
manufactured by consortium of space companies and research institutions led by Surrey Space Centre at
University of Surrey, United Kingdom. The project is co-funded by European Commission.
RemoveDEBRIS Mission
RemoveDEBRIS mission is aimed at performing key Active Debris Removal (ADR) technology
demonstrations (e.g capture, deorbiting) representative of operational scenario during low-cost mission
using novel key technologies for ADR. The mission plans is to test efficacy of several ADR technologies on
mock targets in low Earth orbit (LEO), rather than engaging in ADR of real space debris.
The mission will comprise of main satellite platform that once in orbit will deploy two CubeSats as
artificial debris targets to demonstrate four methods for release, capture and deorbit two space debris
targets, called DebriSATs. These four methods are
Net capture: It involves net that will be deployed at target CubeSat.
Harpoon Capture: It will be launched at target plate made of representative satellite panel materials.
Vision-based navigation: It will send data about debris back to the ground for processing using
cameras and LiDAR (light detection and ranging).
De-orbiting process: The spacecraft after entering Earth’s atmosphere during de-orbiting process
will burn up, leaving no debris behind.
Background
More than 5 decades of human space exploration since first Soviet-launched Sputnik satellite in 1957 has
produced hazardous belt of orbiting space debris. There are estimated to be more than 100 million pieces
of space debris circling our planet in lower orbit, posing growing threat to future space exploration. These
pieces of debris travel at high speeds. A relatively small piece of orbital debris can inflict a great deal of
damage on satellites or spacecrafts orbiting in the space. This phenomenon is Kessler Syndrome which
describes a self-sustaining cascading collision of space debris in LEO may render space eventually
inoperable for important space services like navigation, weather forecasting, communications etc.
Gender inequality extremely high in work & politics in India: Report
According to recent report by the McKinsey Global Institute (MGI) for the Asia-Pacific region, gender
inequality in India is extremely high at the workplace and in terms of legal protection and political voice.
The report had assessed inequality on the basis of Gender Parity Score (GPS) that uses 15 indicators of
gender equality in work and society under four broad categories. It ranks countries on scale of 0
(signifying inequality) to 1 (signifying parity).
Key Facts
India related facts: India’s score was 0.30 in gender equality at work and 0.78 in legal protection and
political voice.. It is behind Asia-Pacific average in all four categories of GPS, but ahead of Bangladesh and
Pakistan. It has progressed faster than any other country in Asia-Pacific region in last decade, primarily
due to advances in education of girl child and reduction in maternal mortality.
Benefits of advancing women’s equality: It will add $4.5 trillion to collective GDP of Asia Pacific countries
annually in 2025, a 12% increase over business-as-usual GDP trajectory. This presumes best-in-region
scenario in which each country matches rate of progress of fastest-improving country in its region —
China in the case of the Asia-Pacific. In case of India, it will add $770 billion in 2025 over and above its
business-as-usual GDP.
Gujarat Government launches Suryashakti Kisan Yojana

Gujarat government has launched Suryashakti Kisan Yojana (SKY), solar power scheme for farmers
enabling them to generate electricity for their captive consumption as well as sell surplus power to grid
and earn extra buck. It is claimed to be first such scheme in the country, where farmer will produce his
power and sell surplus to State power utility.
The pilot project of the scheme will kickoff from July 2018 and about 137 feeders will be set up. It will cover
as many as 12,400 farmers from 33 districts. The project cost is around Rs 870 crore and it will generate
175 MW.
Suryashakti Kisan Yojana (SKY)
The scheme aims at empowering farmers of state to generate their own electricity using solar energy and
help doubling their income. Under it, farmers of state having existing electricity connection will be given
solar panels as per their load requirements. It envisages setting up of separate feeders for agricultural
solar energy consumption.
Cost Sharing: The State and Central governments will give 60% subsidy on cost of project. The farmer is
required to take 5% cost, while 35% will be provided to him as affordable loan with interest rates of 4.5 to
6%.
Duration of scheme: It is 25 years, which is split between 7-year period and 18-year period. For first 7
years, farmers will get per unit rate of Rs 7 Vineet
(RsSingh
3.5| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com
by state power |
utility + Rs 3.5 by state government). For
the subsequent 18 years they will get rate of Rs 3.5 for each unit sold.
June 26, 2018
Aldabra Giant Tortoise: Seychelles gifts two giant tortoise to India
Seychelles has gifted pair of Giant Aldabra tortoise to India as a goodwill gesture. They were brought to
India as gift from the President of Seychelles Danny Faure during his five-day visit to India. The pair was
handed over to Nehru Zoological Park, Hyderabad after Central Zoo Authority (CZA) in New Delhi gave
permission to house them.
The tortoises are both aged about 20 years and weighs around 120 and 150kg. They have been kept under
quarantine at Nehru Zoological Park and will continue to be under observation for 30 days, after which
they will be released into enclosure for public view, where presently Galapagos tortoise is also housed.
Gifting or giving Aldabra tortoise on loan to friendly countries is a part of the Seychellois diplomacy.
Earlier, in 2010, Seychelles had loaned two giant tortoise to Shanghai Zoo in China, while another pair was
presented to Guangzhou Zoo in 2014.
Aldabra Giant Tortoise
Aldabra Giant Tortoise (Aldabrachelys gigantea) is endemic to Aldabra Atoll in Seychelles. It is said to be
one of the largest species of tortoises on planet and also one of the world’s longest living animals (can live
above 200 years). kg Aldabra Atoll has been protected from human influence and is home to around
100,000 giant tortoises, the world’s largest population of the animal. The International Union for
Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified this species of tortoises as Vulnerable in its Red List of
Threatened Species.
Monsoon Session of Parliament to begin from July 18, 2018
The Monsoon Session of Parliament will be held from July 18 to August 10, 2018. It will span over 24 days
and will have 18 sittings. It was formally announced by Cabinet Committee of Parliamentary Affairs (CCPA)
chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh. The CCPA recommendation now sets in summoning motion
process of President Ram Nath Kovind for formally convening the session.
Key Facts
The legislative business of Monsoon Session, 2018 will include passing of six Ordinances promulgated
during the inter-session period before the session. Government is going to introduce bills including
Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Third Amendment) Bill, 2017 that seeks to accord constitutional
status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC), Transgender Persons (Protection of
Rights) Bill, 2016, Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Marriage) Bill, 2017, National Medical
Commission Bill, 2017, Rights of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (Second Amendment) Bill,
2017 for consideration and passing in both Houses of Parliament. Moreover, the election to post of Deputy

Chairman, Rajya Sabha will also be held during the session as term of PJ Kurien ends in June 2018.
World Food Prize 2018 awarded to Lawrence Haddad and Dr. David Nabarro
The World Food Prize 2018 was awarded to Lawrence Haddad and Dr. David Nabarro for their individual
but complementary global leadership in elevating maternal and child undernutrition within food security.
The World Food Prize is most prominent global award for individuals whose breakthrough achievements
alleviate hunger and promote global food security. This year’s $250,000 prize will be divided equally
between two recipients.
Key Facts
Lawrence Haddad is British economist and food policy researcher and Dr. David Nabarro has worked with
the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations (UN) on health and hunger issues. Both have
dedicated their careers to reducing hunger and malnutrition. Their work has deepened understanding of
nutrition’s impact on individual health and also on human capital and economic growth – compelling
world leaders to invest in evidence-based solutions. Their work has resulted in reducing world’s number
of stunted children by 10 million between 2012 and 2017.
World Food Prize
The prize recognizes achievements of individuals who have advanced human development by improving
the quality, quantity, or availability of food in the world. It was conceived in 1986 by Nobel laureate
Norman Borlaug (considered as father of the Green
Vineet Revolution).|
The prize is annual award carrying monetary award of $250,000. The prize emphasizes importance of a
nutritious and sustainable food supply for all people and is considered as means of establishing role
models who would inspire others.
Since its formation, 7 Indians have won it. They are Dr Sanjaya Rajaram (2014), Dr Modadugu Vijay Gupta
(2005), Dr Surinder K. Vasal (2000), Dr B. R. Barwale (1998), Dr Gurdev Khush (1996), Dr Verghese Kurien
(1989) and Prof. M. S. Swaminathan (1987, he was first recipient of the prize).
RBI proposes Board of Management for urban co-operative banks
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has proposed setting up of Board of Management (BoM) in all Urban Co-
operative Banks (UCBs) having deposits of over Rs 100 crore within one year to strengthen governance
and promote professional management in these banks.
BoM will be in addition to the Board of Directors (BoD). The BoD will continue to be apex policy setting
body and constitute various committees of board including BoM to assist it to carry out its functions.
Key Facts
Functions: BoM will look after all administrative functions of UCBs as spelt out in respective Co-
operatives Act. It will be responsible for credit, risk and liquidity management of UCBs. It will consider
loan proposals, recommend action for recovery of bad loans, implement sound internal controls and
oversee compliances, among others.
Composition: BoM will be constituted by BoD. BoM will have minimum of 3 members in UCBs having
deposit size up to Rs 100 crore and 5 members in UCBs having deposit size above Rs 100 crore. The
maximum number of members in BoM will not exceed 12. Not more than 50% of BoM members should be
from BoD. Under all circumstances, BoM should have atleast two members outside from BoD.
Criteria: 50% of the members of BoM will consists of persons having special knowledge or practical
experience in respect of one or more of the following matters such as accountancy, agriculture and rural
economy, banking, co-operation, economics, finance, law, small scale industry, information technology and
other matter the special knowledge useful to UCB.
Implementation: Existing UCBs having deposit size exceeding Rs 100 crore will set up BoM within period
of 1 year and banks less than it may constitute BoM within 2 years.
Background
The expert committee on licensing new urban co-operative banks (2010) constitued under chairmanship
of YH Malegam had recommended that BoM should be constituted in every UCB, in addition to BoDs. This
was reiterated by high powered committee on UCBs headed by R. Gandhi constituted in January 2015 by
RBI. Under the present legal framework, BoD of UCB performs both executive and supervisory roles and
has responsibility to oversee functioning of UCB as cooperative society and as a bank.

India, Seychelles ink 6 MoUs

India and Seychelles have signed six Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) including in area of
infrastructure development in Seychelles, cyber security and white-shipping arrangement. The
agreements were signed between both countries after bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra
Modi and visiting Seychelles President Danny Faure in New Delhi.
India has announced US $100-million credit to Seychelles for augmenting its defence capabilities. It also
announced to hand over second Dornier aircraft to Seychelles as promised by PM Modi during his visit
there in 2015. The aircraft will reach Seychelles before its National Day on June 29, 2018.
Signed agreements are
MoU regarding Indian Grant Assistance for implementation of small development projects through
local bodies, educational and vocational institutions.
Twinning Agreement on Establishment of Friendship and Cooperation between Panaji (Municipal
Corporation), Goa (India) and Victoria City of Seychelles
MoU in the area of Cyber Security: It was signed between Indian Computer Emergency Response
Team (CERT-in) and Seychelles’ Department of Information Communications Technology.
Cultural Exchange Programme between India and Seychelles for the years 2018-2022
Technical Agreement on Sharing White Shipping Information between Indian Navy and National
Information Sharing and Coordination Center of Seychelles: It will enable the two countries to
exchange data regarding identity and movement of non-military commercial vessels

MoU between Foreign Service Institute (FSI) of Ministry of External Affairs of India and Department
of Foreign Affairs of Seychelles.
Key Takeaways from talks bilateral talks
Assumption Island: Both India and Seychelles have agreed to work together on project to develop naval
base at Assumption Island keeping each other’s concerns in mind. Both countries are key strategic
partners for each other and they respect the core values of democracy. They share geo-strategic vision of
maintaining peace, security and stability in Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Defence and security cooperation: Both countries share robust defence and security cooperation. The US
$100-million credit from India to enable Seychelles to buy defence equipment to boost its maritime
capacity. Both countries have strategic convergence in dealing with maritime challenges. Both countries
are straddled between one of important Sea Lanes of Communication and vulnerable to piracy. They face
dangers of international crimes such as piracy, drugs, human trafficking and illegal exploitation of oceanic
resources. India is committed to augment Seychelles defence capabilities, maritime infrastructure and
increase capabilities of its defence personnel.
Second tranche of Bharat-22 ETF oversubscribed, receives bids worth Rs 15,436 crore
The second tranche of Bharat-22 Exchange Traded Fund (ETF), comprising shares of 22 companies, has
received bids worth Rs. 15,436 crore, much higher than government’s fund raising target. The second
tranche was targeted to achieve fund mop up of Rs 6,000 crore with green-shoe option for another Rs.
2,400 crore.
Key Facts
At the end of the bidding of second tranche, the ETF was over-subscribed by 2.57 times base issue size of
Rs. 6,000 crore. Total of 1.2 lakh bids were made for the follow-on fund offer (FFO), attracting wide
participation across all investor segments. The government is also likely to exercise green-shoe option to
retain additional Rs 2,400 crore worth bids received.
Bharat-22 ETF
Bharat 22 is a well-diversified ETF spanning six sectors — basic materials, energy, finance, industrials,
FMCG and utilities. The sector wise weightage in the Bharat 22 Index is industrials (22.6%), finance
(20.3%), utilities (20%), energy (17.5%), FMCG (15.2%) and basic materials (4.4%). It was launched by Union
Government to meet some part of its disinvestment target of Rs. 80,000 crore in current fiscal.
The banking segment includes stocks from State Bank of India (SBI), Axis Bank, Bank of Baroda (BoB),
Indian Bank, Rural Electrification Corporation and Power Finance Corporation. The energy segment
includes Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), Indian Oil Corporation (IOC), Bharat Petroleum (BP),

and Coal India.
Exchange-traded funds (ETFs)

ETFs are essentially index funds that are listed and traded on exchanges like stocks. They are basically
basket of stocks with assigned weights that reflects the composition of an index. They are similar to
mutual funds in a certain manner but are more liquid as they can be sold quickly on stock exchanges like
shares. The ETFs trading value is based on the net asset value of the underlying stocks that it represents.
Their trading value is based on net asset value of the underlying stocks that it represents. Their price
changes daily as they are traded throughout day. ETF route is considered as safer mode of disinvestment
as it shields investors against stock market volatility.
June 27, 2018
International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking: June 26
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed every year on June 26 across
the world to raise awareness of major problem that illicit drugs. The day is also observed as an expression
of United Nations’ (UN) determination to strengthen action and cooperation to achieve goal of an
international society free of drug abuse.
The 2018 theme of this day is “Listen First – Listening to children and youth is the first step to help them grow
healthy and safe”. It seeks to highlights ncreased incidence of drug abuse in the youth and kids. It aims at
increasing support for science-based prevention of drug use and invests more in well-being of kids,
youngsters and their families.
Background
The day was officially instituted by UN after UN General Assembly (UNGA) by adopting resolution 42/112
in December 1987. The date was chosen to commemorate Lin Zexu’s (Chinese scholar and official of the
Qing dynasty) dismantling of the opium trade in Humen, Guangdong, just before the First Opium War in
China (1839–42).
The day recognizes that despite continued and increased efforts by international community, the world
drug problem continues to constitute serious threat to public health, safety and well-being of humanity, in
particular young people, and national security and sovereignty of States and that it undermines socio-
economic and political stability and sustainable development.
It encourages Commission and UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to continue their work on
international drug control and urges all Governments to provide fullest possible financial and political
support to enable UNODC to continue, expand and strengthen its operational and technical cooperation
activities, within its mandates.
S Ramesh appointed as Chairman of CBIC
The Union Government has appointed senior bureaucrat S Ramesh as chairman of Central Board of
Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), the apex policy-making body for indirect taxes. He has been appointed
as chairman of CBIC with the status of special secretary to the central government. He will succeed Vanaja
N Sarna who retired on June 30, 2018. Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
S Ramesh is 1981 batch officer of the Indian Revenue Service (Customs and Central Excise). Prior to this
appointment he was member in CBIC, mandated with responsibility of implementing the Goods and
Services Tax (GST).
Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC)
CBIC is the nodal national agency responsible for administering Customs, GST, Central Excise, Service
Tax & Narcotics in India. It is part of the Department of Revenue under Union Ministry of Finance. It is
headquartered in New Delhi. It was renamed to present name from Central Board of Excise & Customs
(CBEC) in March 2017. It is one of the oldest government departments of India (established in 1855 by the
then British Governor General of India, to administer customs laws in India and collection of import
duties / land revenue).
CBIC deals with tasks of formulation of policy concerning levy and collection of customs and central
excise duties and service tax, prevention of smuggling and administration of matters relating to customs,
central excise, service tax and narcotics. It is administrative authority for its subordinate organizations,
including Central Excise and Service Tax Commissionerates, Custom Houses and Central Revenues
Control Laboratory.
Anant Barua appointed as whole-time member of SEBI
The Union Government has appointed Anant Barua as whole-time member of the Securities and Exchange
Board of India (SEBI). He is has been appointed to post for three years on the pay as admissible to
additional secretary to the central government or a consolidated salary of Rs 4 lakh per month.
Anant Barua
Barua is at present executive director in SEBI. He had taken charge as executive director of market
regulator in May 2010. Prior to this assignment, he was legal adviser, Legal Affairs Department (LAD),
SEBI. He had been working in LAD since 1992. He is commerce graduate with LL.B from the University of
Delhi. He was on deputation to Central Bank of Bahrain as legal adviser and has also worked with National
Fertilizers Ltd. (NFL), Industrial Finance Corporation of India (IFCI) and DCM Ltd.
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI)
SEBI is statutory regulator for securities market in India established in 1988. It was given statutory
powers through tSEBI Act, 1992. Its mandate is to protect interests of investors in securities, promote
development of securities market and to regulate securities market. It is headquartered in Mumbai,
Maharashtra.
SEBI is responsive to needs of three groups, which constitute market, issuers of securities, investors and
market intermediaries. It has three functions quasi-legislative (drafts regulations in its legislative
capacity), quasi-judicial (passes rulings and orders in its judicial capacity) and quasi-executive (conducts

investigation and enforcement action in its executive function).

UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA): India pledges $5 million for Palestine Refugees
India has pledged $5 million for United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees
(UNRWA) in the Near East. Besides India, 19 countries also made pledges (contributions) for UNRWA at
the Pledging Conference for UNRWA held in New York, US. Among the donors, Sweden has pledge to
contribute US $250 million over four years, $ 51 million and UAE $50 million.
Background
UNRWA’s financial situation had become catastrophic due to sudden loss of US $300 million in voluntary
contributions. It is facing shortfall of $250 million. This comes after US President Donald Trump
announced in January 2018 that US will cut its contributions to UNRWA, questioning value of such
funding. The agency was expecting $365 million from US (Its largest contributor) but has received only
$65 million of $125 million it had planned to send to UNRWA. In March 2018, India had announced at
conference in Rome (Italy) that it was raising its annual contributions from $1.25 million per year to $5
million for the next three years.
Untied Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA)
UNRWA is relief and human development agency of UN which supports more than 5 million registered
Palestinian refugees, and their descendants. It is only UN agency dedicated to helping refugees from
specific region or conflict and is separate from UNHCR.
Establishment: It was established December 1949 following 1948 Arab-Israeli conflict by UN General
Assembly Resolution 302 (IV).
Mandate: UNRWA has contributed to the welfare and human development of four generations of
Palestine refugees , who had fled or were expelled from their homes during 1948 Palestine war as well
during and following 1967 Six Day war. Originally, it was intended to provide jobs on public works projects
and direct relief, but now it provides services like education, health care, and social services to population
it supports. It also allows refugee status to be inherited by descendants.
Region of operation: It provides aid in five areas of operation: Jordan, Lebanon, Syria, the Gaza Strip and
West Bank, including East Jerusalem; and aid for Palestinian refugees outside these five areas is provided
by UNHCR. It serves about 5.3 million refugees scattered around Middle East.
Funding: It is funded almost entirely by voluntary contributions from UN member states. It also receives
some funding from regular budget of UN, which is used mostly for international staffing costs.
Van Dhan Scheme: Government proposes to set up 3,000 Van Dhan Kendras involving 30,000 SHGs
Th has proposed to set up 3000 Van Dhan Kendras involving 30,000 Self Help Groups (SHGs) across the
country under its Van Dhan Scheme. This will help in empowering tribals by providing them skill up-
gradation and capacity building training for value addition of forest produce for modernizing traditional
tribal-rural economic system.
Van Dhan Scheme
The scheme was launched by Prime Minister on 14th April, 2018 during the celebrations of Ambedkar
Jayanti at Bijapur Chattisgarh. It aims at targeting livelihood generation for tribals by harnessing non-
timber minor forest produces (MFP), the true wealth of forest (i.e. Van Dhan). For this, it will provide them
skill up-gradation and capacity building training for value addition of forest produce. Value addition

will ensure remunerative prices to tribals.

It also aims at building upon traditional knowledge and skill sets of tribals by adding technology & IT for
value addition. It also aims to promote MFPs-centric livelihood development of tribal gatherers and
artisans It will promote and leverage collective strength of tribals (through SHGs) to achieve scale.
Implementation: It will be implemented through Ministry of Tribal Affairs at Central Level and Tribal
Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India (TRIFED) as nodal agency at National Level by
providing training and technical support. At State level, state nodal agency for MFPs and district
collectors will play pivot role in scheme implementation at grassroot level.
Van Dhan Vikas Kendra: TRIFED will facilitate establishment of MFP-led multi-purpose kendras
predominantly forested tribal districts. These kendras will be cluster of 10 SHGs comprising of 30 tribal
MFP gatherers each. They will provide skill upgradation and capacity building training and setting up of
primary processing and value addition facility. Locally these kendras will be managed by Managing
Committee (an SHG) consisting of representatives of Van Dhan SHGs in cluster. Big corporates will help to
create secondary level value addition facility at district level and tertiary level value addition facility at
state level under the PPP model.
3rd Annual Meeting of AIIB held in Mumbai
The 3rd Annual Meeting of Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) concluded in Mumbai,
Maharashtra in optimistic note to raise its lending capacity to boost prosperity and security in Asia. The
meeting was jointly organised by Department of Economic Affairs under Union Finance Ministry and
AIIB.
Key Facts
The theme of third meeting was ‘Mobilising Finance for Infrastructure: Innovation and Collaboration’. It was
attended by over 3,000 delegates from 86 member countries of AIIB. It was held on high note to improve
connectivity within region and in turn enable citizens in the region to reach their potential and enjoy
prosperity and security. It had several concurrent sessions that discussed critical issues pertaining to
environment, low carbon emissions, connectivity through railway network across borders among several
others.
The first AIIB board of governors annual meeting was held in Beijing, China in 2016 and second in Jeju,
South Korea in 2017 . The fourth annual meeting will be held in Luxembourg in July 2019. Luxembourg is a
founding member of AIIB. It is also leading international financial center in Europe and facilitator of
investments between Europe and Asia.
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB)
AIIB is multilateral development bank initiated by China. Its purpose is to provide finance to
infrastructure development and regional connectivity projects in Asia-Pacific region. It is viewed as Asia’s
response to West-dominated Asian Development Bank (ADB) and World Bank (WB).

It was officially established in December 2015 with mission to improve social and economic outcomes in
Asia and beyond and opened for business in January 2016. It is headquartered in Beijing, China. Its goals
are to boost economic development in Asia-Pacific region, provide infrastructure, and promote regional
cooperation and partnership. It priorities investments in energy, power generation, transport, rural
infrastructure, environmental protection and logistics in Asia.
So far it has 86 members including India (US is not its member of AIIB but its allies Canada, Germany, UK,
Australia and South Korea have joined it). It has an authorised capital of US $100 billion. China is largest
shareholder of AIIB with 26.06% voting shares. India with 7.5% vote share is second largest shareholder
followed by Russia, Germany and South Korea.
Global Environment Facility (GEF): India increases grant from $12 million to $15 million
India announced to increase its grant to Global Environment Facility’s (GEF) new four-year investment
cycle, known as GEF-7 from $12 million to $15 million. It was announced at the GEF Council meeting held
at Da Nang, Vietnam and approved a $4.1 billion replenishment of GEF-7.
Key Facts
With India’s increased financing commitment, it is playing crucial role to mitigate climate change and
other environmental challenges across the globe. India is among the world’s most vulnerable countries to
climate change, is both donor and recipient of GEF.
India has been a leading developing country participant in GEF since its inception and has played a major
role in shaping GEF. India is both donor and recipient of GEF.

The GEF meeting Council will be followed be sixth GEF Assembly (June 27-28), which meets every four
years. It is expecting 1,200 participants, including heads of state, environment ministers, United Nations
(UN), NGOs and business leaders.
Global Environment Facility (GEF)
GEF is multilateral financial mechanism that provides grants to developing countries for projects that
benefit global environment and promote sustainable livelihoods in local communities. It was established
on the eve of 1992 Rio Earth Summit to help tackle our planet’s most pressing environmental problems
It addresses six designated focal areas: biodiversity, climate change, international waters, ozone depletion,
land degradation and Persistent Organic Pollutants. It unites 183 countries in partnership with
international institutions, civil society organizations (CSOs), and private sector to address global
environmental issues.
It is based in Washington DC, United States. Since its inception, GEF has provided $17.9 billion in grants
and mobilised an additional $93.2 billion in financing for more than 4,500 projects in 170 countries. GEF
also serves as financial mechanism for following conventions:
Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC)
UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
Stockholm Convention on Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs)
Minamata Convention on Mercury
The GEF, although not linked formally to Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete Ozone Layer,
supports its implementation in countries with economies in transition.
Jaitapur nuclear plant: France’s EDF and GE sign deal to build 6 nuclear reactors
French state-run power utility EDF and American conglomerate General Electric (GE) have signed
strategic cooperation agreement with State-run Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) to build for
construction of 6 EPR (European Pressurized Reactors) type nuclear reactors of capacity 1,650 megawatt
(MW) each at Jaitapur nuclear plant in Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra.
Key Facts
This strategic cooperation agreement is for long term partnership for construction of conventional island
on each of 6 reactor units of Jaitapur nuclear plant. GE Power will design conventional island for the plant
and supply its main components. EDF will supply EPR technology and will be responsible for building and
coordinating industrial partners for this project. It will be responsible for engineering integration
covering entire project (nuclear island, conventional island and auxiliary systems) and will provide all the

requisite input data.

Jaitapur Nuclear Power Plant
It is proposed 9900 MW nuclear power project to come at Madban village of Ratnagiri district in
Maharashtra (west coast of India). State-run Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL) is builder and
operator of this plant. It will be built under Indo-France Civil Nuclear Deal signed in December 2010.
It will have 6 EPR designed and developed by Areva of France, each of 1650 MW, thus totalling 9900 MW.
EPR is third generation pressurised water reactors (PWR). The estimated cost of this project was around
US $15 billion (Rs. 1,000 billion). Consortium of French financial institutions will finance this project as a
loan.
The layout of nuclear power plant comprises two major parts — nuclear island and conventional (turbine)
island. The nuclear island is heart of nuclear power plant, while conventional (turbine) island houses key
component which extracts thermal energy from pressurized steam and converts it into electrical energy.
On completion, Jaitapur power plant would be world’s largest nuclear power generating station by net
electrical power rating. It will also play pivotal role in achieving Union Government’s ambitious target of
22,480 mw nuclear power generation capacity by 2031.
June 28, 2018
International Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day: June 27
The International Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises | (MSME) Day is observed every year across
the world on June 27. This year is second edition after the day was instituted in April 2017. The day
highlights strong contribution of MSME businesses worldwide to livelihoods, communities and
economies, and need to support MSMEs towards their success. Objectives of this day are to advocate
importance of MSMEs in youth employment, raise awareness around the skills needed by youth to acquire
decent jobs and raise awareness around youth entrepreneurship. The campaign slogan of MSME Day 2018
is ‘The Youth Dimension’.
Importance of MSMEs
They are major job providers and catalysts for growth. They are critical force in realizing Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). They promote innovation, creativity and decent work for all. Four in five new
formal jobs created in emerging markets are among MSMEs. The private sector led by MSMEs drives jobs
growth, accounting for 87% of total employment in 2016. MSMEs tend to employ larger share of
vulnerable sectors of workforce, such as women, youth, and people from poorer households. They can even
sometimes be only source of employment in rural areas. MSMEs as group are main income provider for
income distribution at “base of the pyramid”.
Background
The Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day was instituted by United Nations General Assembly
(UNGA) through resolution A/RES/71/279 to recognize need to improve small business access to
microfinance and credit. The resolution was introduced by delegation of Argentina and was co-sponsored
by 54 member states and adopted without vote by 193-member UNGA in April 2017. The goal is to
encourage member states to facilitate observance of the day by increasing awareness and actions to
support small business.
Cooperation on Maritime Awareness Mission: Cabinet approves Implementing Arrangement between
India and France
The Union Cabinet has approved Implementing Arrangement (IA) between India and France for pre-
formulation studies of Maritime Domain Awareness Mission signed in March 2018. The proposed joint
mission will be devoted to maritime domain awareness, with objective to provide relevant data and
services to both nations.
Key Facts
The objective of the mission is to monitor the maritime traffic and identify non-compliant ships at
maximum possible revisit frequency. The monitoring system will provide end to end solution for
detection, identification, monitoring of vessels in the regions of interest for India and France.
As per the IA, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) and France’s Centre Nationale Dètudes Spatiales
(CNES), will jointly undertake various activities during these pre-formulation studies. They will present

pre-formulation concept study results to respective senior management for review within one year of its
signing.
CCEA approves capital infusion in Export Credit Guarantee Corporation
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved the capital infusion of Rs. 2000 crore
for strengthening of Export Credit Guarantee Corporation (ECGC) to enhance insurance coverage to
micro, small medium enterprises (MSMEs) exports. The amount will be infused in three financial years i.e.
Rs.50 crore in 2017-18, Rs.1450 crore in 2018-19 and Rs.500 crore in 2019-20.
Key Facts
The infusion of capital will enhance insurance coverage to MSME exports and strengthen India’s exports
to emerging and challenging markets like Africa, CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) and Latin
American countries. With enhanced capital, ECGC’s underwriting capacity and risk to capital ratio will
improve considerably.
Significance
With stronger underwriting capacity, ECGC will be in better position to support Indian exporters to tap
new and unexplored markets. Increased capital infusion will also help ECGC to diversify its product
portfolio and provide cost effective credit insurance which will help exporters to gain stronger foothold in
difficult markets. Covers from ECGC will help in improving competitive position of India exporters in
International markets. More than 85% of customers benefitted by ECGC’s covers are MSMEs. ECGC
covers exports to around 200 countries in the world.
Background
ECGC is a premier export credit agency of Union Government to provide Export Credit Insurance Services
to facilitate exports from the country. It offers credit insurance schemes to exporters to protect them
against losses due to non-payment of export dues by overseas buyers due to political or commercial risks.
Cabinet approves establishment Strategic Petroleum Reserves at Chandikhol and Padur
The Union Cabinet has approved establishment of additional 6.5 Million Metric Tonne (MMT) Strategic
Petroleum Reserves (SPR) facilities at Chandikhol in Odisha and Padur in Karnataka. It also approved
construction of dedicated SPMs (Single Point Mooring) for the two SPRs. This decision is in line with
Government’s announcement of setting up of two additional SPRs during 2017-18 budget.
Key Facts
The SPR facilities at Chandikhol and Padur will be underground rockcaverns. They will have capacities of
4 MMT and 2.5 MMT respectively. These facilities will provide an additional supply of about 12 days of
petroleum reserves and is expected to augment India’s energy security. They will be built up project under
Public Private Partnership (PPP) model to reduce budgetary support of Government of India. The terms
and conditions of such PPP participation will be determined by Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas in
consultation with Ministry of Finance after conducting road shows to elicit requirements of market,
including prospective investors.
Background
Central Government under phase I of SPR programme has built three underground crude oil storage
facilities (Strategic Petroleum Reserves) with total capacity of 5.33 MMT capacity at Vishakhapatnam
(Andhra Pradesh, storage capacity of 1.33 million tonnes), Mangalore (Karnataka, 1.5 million tonnes) and
Padur (Kerala, 2.5 million tonnes) to provide energy security of 10 days of consumption in response to
external supply disruptions. They are maintained by Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Ltd (ISPRL), a
special purpose vehicle (SPV), which is wholly owned subsidiary of Oil Industry Development Board
(OIDB) under Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas.
Government bans oxytocin hormone to curb misuse
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has banned manufacture and sale of Oxytocin drug
formulations for domestic use in private sector to prevent its misuse from 1st July 2018. Its import also
has been banned. It also has not allowed retail or wholesale chemists to stock this drug in their shops in
any form or name. Jenceforth, Karnataka Antibiotics & Pharmaceuticals Ltd will only manufacture the
drug and supply it directly to registered private and public hospitals.

Oxytocin
Oxytocin, often called love hormone, is released naturally in human bonding activities such as childbirth ,
breastfeeding and sex,. It is uterine stimulant hormone, prescribed for initiation of uterine contractions
and induction of labour in women as well as stimulation of contractions during labour. It is also used to
help abort fetus in cases of incomplete abortion or miscarriage, and control bleeding after childbirth. It
may be used for breast engorgement.
Misuse
It has become controversial hormonal injection that is misused widely in the dairy industry, agriculture
and horticulture. The drug’s abuse in dairy animals to make them release milk at a time convenient to
farmers, shortens their lives and makes them barren sooner. The hormone is also used to increase size of
vegetables such as pumpkins, watermelons, brinjals, gourds and cucumbers. Even its misuse is reported
among trafficked children, injected to accelerate puberty among girls. It is also being misused to speed up
deliveries for pregnant women in overcrowded government hospitals.
Women Entrepreneurs Platform: NITI Aayog signs SoI with Financial Institutions & Social Organisations
NITI Aayog’s Women Entrepreneurs Platform (WEP) has signed five separate Statement of Intent (SoIs)
with Financial Institutions & Social Organisations to create opportunities and support women
entrepreneurs. These organisations are Shri Mahila Sewa Sahakari Bank Limited, Indiabulls Housing
Finance Limited, SREI Infrastructure Finance Limited, Sreemanta Sankar Mission and the Self Employed
Women’s Association (SEWA).
Women Entrepreneurs Platform (WEP)
WEP was launched by NITI Aayog on the occasion of International Women’s day (March 8, 2018). Its
objective to b build vibrant ecosystem for women across country to help realise their entrepreneurial
aspirations, scale-up innovative initiatives and chalk-out sustainable, long-term strategies for their
businesses.
It also aims to power vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem through an enabling network of industry
collaborations, partnerships, mentors and peer-to-peer connect. It also seeks to address bottlenecks faced
by both aspiring and established women entrepreneurs by streamlining information across government
and private sector schemes and initiatives with informative, interactive website as a dedicated resource

and knowledge base.

WEP aspires to substantially increase number of women entrepreneurs to create and empower dynamic
new India by opening up avenues of growth and opportunity for women entrepreneurs. These aspirations
of women entrepreneurs are manifested in three pillars on which WEP is built: Ichha Shakti: Motivating
aspiring entrepreneurs to start their enterprise; Gyaan Shakti: Providing knowledge and ecosystem
support to women entrepreneurs to help them foster entrepreneurship; Karma Shakti: Providing hands-
on support to entrepreneurs in setting-up and scaling up businesses.
The WEP platform operates within broader framework of industry collaborations and partnerships, which
cut across sectors in economy. It will provide unique services such as credit evaluation of women-led
startups by CRISIL and potential equity investments through an Rs. 10 crore fund established by DICE
Districts
President launches Solar Charkha Mission
President Ram Nath Kovind launched Solar Charkha Mission under which Government will disburse
subsidy of Rs 550 crore to thousands of artisans, generating employment in rural areas. It was launched
during the event of Udyam Sangam (National MSME Conclave) on the occasion of World MSME Day
(observed on 27 June).
Key Facts
Under this mission, Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME) will cover 50 clusters across
the country including in the Northeast and each cluster will employ 400 to 2,000 artisans. Its ultimate
aim is to generate employment in rural areas and contribute to the green economy. It also aims at linking
five crore women across the country to the initiative. The mission is expected to create one lakh jobs
during the first two years.
June 29, 2018
Cotton Mission: Maharashtra Government signs MoU with MCX to empower cotton farmers
Maharashtra Government has singed MoU with India’s largest commodities exchange platform, Multi
Commodity Exchange of India Limited (MCX) to launched Cotton Mission to empower cotton farmers in
the state. The mission aims to create value chain with final market linkages for thousands of cotton
farmers in Vidarbha region of the state.
Cotton Mission
Under this mission, MCX will partner with state agriculture department and other agencies to work
closely with Farmer Producer Organisations and help them connect to its organised market network for
building their capabilities. It will work with State Government to identify and create farmer groups and
work towards equipping these groups to access regulated markets. This will enable farmer to participate
in transparent price discovery mechanism and sell their produce in national market for better price
realization. This in long term will support the farmers’ in their upliftment and contribute to doubling their
incomes by 2022, as envisaged by the centre.
Background
MCX already has accredited warehouses in Yavatmal and Jalna in Vidharba region and it is planning to
provide delivery facilities in three or more new locations under mission. Its cotton futures market
provides efficient platform for farmers to move up value chain and increase their price realisations. It also
allows farmers to use its mechanism to deliver or hedge to get remunerative prices.
Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX)
MCX is country’s first listed commodity futures exchange that facilitates online trading, and clearing and
settlement of commodity futures transactions, thereby providing platform for risk management. It was
launched in November 2003 and operates within regulatory framework of Forward Contracts Regulation
Act, 1952 (FCRA, 1952) under SEBI. MCX offers futures trading in bullion, ferrous and non-ferrous metals,
energy, and a number of agricultural commodities (mentha oil, cardamom, potatoes, palm oil and others).
Globally, MCX ranks no. 1 in silver, no. 2 in natural gas, no. 3 in crude oil and gold in futures trading.
Haryana to host World Union of Wholesale Markets Conference
Haryana Government is going to host 2018 World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM) Conference at
Gurugram in 10-13 October 2018. In this regard, State Government has inked agreement WUWM. The

conference will be organized by Haryana State Agricultural Marketing Board.

Key Facts
The main aim of the conference is to provide common unified structure of mandis all across the world and
take advantages of the improvements in the mandis in the world for India’s domestic requirements. It will
share information related to reforms all over world so that India moves towards single unified world
market. Countries from Asia, North and South America, Africa and Europe will participate in the
conference. The countries include China, Spain, Brazil, Germany, Argentina, Mexico, Africa and Australia.
World Union of Wholesale Markets (WUWM)
WUHM is non-profit association that aims to promote international exchange of information on wholesale
and retail markets, with a view to improving their construction, organisation and management. Its
objective is to promote wholesale markets across world in uniform manner by systems, processes,
technology, transparency and trade by exchange of information.
Its mission is to promote the essential role that wholesale and retail markets play in ensuring sustainable
access, availability and distribution of diverse variety of quality fresh food products, whilst maintaining
competitive prices and highest standards of service and food security, throughout international
community.
WUHM is international organisation of 65 countries having members of around 200 Wholesale Markets
across e World. It has four regional groupsVineet
forSinghEurope, Asia, Latin
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | America and Africa. It is the only apex
organization dealing exclusively in Agricultural Produce Wholesale Markets irrespective of their
management pattern, may be Government, Private, Public-Private jointly.
Government institutes Home Minister’s Special Operation Medal
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has approved institution of Home Minister’s Special Operation
Medal. It also has instituted three more Medals- Antarik Suraksha Medal, Asadharan Aashuchan Padak,
and Utkrisht & Ati-Utkrisht Seva Medal.
Key Facts
These medals will be awarded annually. HM’s Special Operation Medal and Asadharan Aashuchan Padak
will be awarded on Independence Day (15th August), Antarik Suraksha Medal and Utkrisht & Ati-Utkrisht
Seva Medal will be announced on Republic Day (26th January).
There will be no limit or quota for awarding HM’s Special Operation Medal, Asadharan Aashuchan Padak
and Antarik Suraksha Medal. There will be cap of 1% and 0.5% of sanctioned strength rank subject to the
eligibility conditions for the Utkrisht and Ati-Utkrisht Seva Medal respectively. The medal may be
withdrawn if holder is found guilty of disloyalty or brings force to disrepute such as removal, major
penalty, criminal offence etc.
Home Minister’s Special Operation Medal: It aims to promote high professional standards of
Investigation of Crime in State/UT Police and Central Investigating Agencies (CIAs) in the country. Police
Officers of States/UTs, Central Police Organisations (CPOs), Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs) and
Security Organisation involved in Special Operations are eligible for it.
Asadharan Aashuchan Padak: It will be given to officials of Intelligence organization of Central
Government and Intelligence Department/wings/Special Branches/Units of all State/UT Police, CAPFs,
Assam Rifles (AR) and National Security Guard (NSG) for acts of exceptional courage and skill in
intelligence gathering.
Antarik Suraksha Medal: It will be bestowed upon Police personnel of States/UTs/CAPFs/Security
Organisation in recognition of operation duty rendered by them for tenure of every two years in internal
security in Jammu & Kashmir, Left Wing Extremism (LWE) region and North East region.
Utkrisht and Ati Utkrisht Seva Medal: It will be awarded to permanent Police personnel and other
permanent support staff working in CAPFs, State/UTs Police Forces, AR, NSG, Home Guard (HG) and
intelligence organizations of Central and state Governments and CAPFs in recognition of Long Service of
15 and 25 year and good service records.
National Statistics Day: June 29
The National Statistics Day is celebrated every year on June 29 in India to create public awareness about

the importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation. The day also
acknowledges notable contribution of Late Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in fields of statistics,
statistical system and economic planning. The 2018 theme is “Quality Assurance in Official Statistics”. It
underscores importance of compliance with essential parameters of quality in statistical systems and
products.
PC Mahalanobis
He was born on 29 June 1893 in Kolkata and died on 28 June 1972 in Kolkata. He was the first Indian
statistician to receive world recognition. In 1933, he had founded the first Indian statistical journal
Sankhya. He had founded the Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) and contributed to the design of large-scale
sample surveys.
He had made pioneering studies in anthropometry in India. He is also best remembered for the statistical
measure Mahalanobis distance. He was also a member of the Planning Commission (PC) from 1955 to 1967.
The Second Five-Year Plan had relied on Mahalanobis’s mathematical description of Indian economy. This
plan had encouraged the development of heavy industry in India and later became known as Nehru-
Mahalanobis model or Basic Industry strategy of economic growth.
Background
The Union Government had designated June 29 as National Statistics Day in 2007 in recognition of
notable contributions made by Late Professor PC Mahalanobis
Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | in the fields of statistics. Every year
Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation (MoSPI) and Indian Statistical Institute selects
particular theme for the day based on current national importance for focused discussions and efforts
throughout year to bring about improvements in selected area.
OPCW given powers to identify those behind chemicals arms attacks in Syria
The world’s foremost chemical weapons watchdog, Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons
(OPCW) as granted itself new powers to help identify those responsible for chemical attacks in Syria. 82
members (exceeding required two-thirds majority) of the OPCW voted in favour of this proposal tabled by
United Kingdom at special session of Conference of States Parties in The Hague. 24 countries including
Russia, Iran and Syria voted against it.
With enhanced powers, OPCW now can put in place arrangements to identify the perpetrators of use of
chemical weapons in Syria. It is considered as important step forward for arms control. It strengthens
unravelling consensus against use of chemical weapons.
Background
Until now, OPCW was only able to say whether chemical weapons were used – but not who had used
them. It had limited power to only send teams to alleged chemical weapons attack, collect samples and
draw their conclusions. They were having only limited power of determining whether attack is chemical
weapons or not. But whatever evidence they turned up, they were not having powers to point finger at
particular country or non-state actor as the perpetrator for the attack.
Organisation for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons (OPCW)
OPCW is an intergovernmental organization that promotes, administers and verifies the adherence to the
Convention on Prohibition of Development, Production, Stockpiling and Use of Chemical Weapons and on
their Destruction (CWC). This convention outlaws production, stockpiling, and use of chemical weapons
and their precursors. 190 member-states have signed and ratified this convention including India. Six
states- Angola, Egypt, Israel, Myanmar, North Korea and South Sudan are still outside the CWC. OPCW
was established April 1997 and it is headquartered in Hague, Netherlands. It was awarded Nobel Peace
Prize in 2013 for overseeing global endeavour for permanent and verifiable elimination of chemical
weapons.
Global Real Estate Transparency Index: India ranks 35
India was ranked 35th among 100 countries (countries) in recently released Global Real Estate
Transparency Index (GRETI). The index was released by realty consultant JLL. India was ranked 36th in
the index during the last bi-annual survey conducted in 2016 and 40th in 2014. Its real estate market is
currently placed in the ‘semi-transparent’ zone.
Global Real Estate Transparency Index

GRETI ranks 100 markets based on combination of quantitative market data and survey results across on
186 individual measures divided into 14 topic areas grouped and weighted into six broad sub-indices:
performance measurement (weightage 28.5%), market fundamentals (16.5%), governance of listed vehicles
(10%), regulatory and legal (25%), transaction process (15%) and sustainability (5%). The index scores
markets on scale of 1 (being highest possible score) to 5 (lowest score). Depending on their overall
performance, markets are assigned to one of five transparency tiers viz. highly transparent, transparent,
semi-transparent, low transparency and opaque.
Key Highlights of 2018 GRETI
Top 10 countries are: United Kingdom (1st), Australia (2nd), United States (3rd), France (4th), Canada (5th),
Netherlands (6th), New Zealand (7th), Germany (8th), Ireland (9th) and Sweden (10th).
Top 5 worst performers: Venezuela (100), Libya (99), Senegal (98), Mozambique (97) and Ivory Coast (96).
BRICS countries: South Africa was ranked at 21st position, followed by China (33rd), Brazil (37th) and
Russia (38th).
South Asia: Sri Lanka (66th position), Pakistan (75th).
India related Facts: In this edition of index, India has moved up one place due to improvement in market
fundamentals, policy reforms, and liberalisation of FDI. Besides, digitisation of property records and
industry status accorded to affordable housing also has helped India to improve its rankings. India has
emerged as one of the top ten countries to register maximum improvement in transparency in real estate
over the last two years
Financial Action Task Force places Pakistan in Grey List for failing to curb terror financing
The Financial Action Task Force (FATF) at its plenary meeting in Paris, France has officially placed
Pakistan on its Grey List of countries involved in providing monetary assistance to terrorism and related
causes for failing to curb terror financing on its soil. FATF also has laid out 10-point action plan for
Pakistan for compliance with its guidelines. If Pakistan fails in implementing the elaborate action plan, it
may result in being included in FAFT’s Black List in 2019. This will be second time Pakistan has been grey
listed by FATF, for first time it was placed in the list for three years from 2012 to 2015.
Impact of Grey-listing
It will endanger Pakistan’s handful of remaining banking links to outside world, causing real financial pain
to its fragile economy. It will squeeze Pakistan’s economy and make it harder to meet its mounting foreign
financing needs, including potential future borrowings from International Monetary Fund (IMF). It will
lead to downgrading of Pakistan’s debt ratings by international banking and credit rating agencies,
making it more difficult to tap funds from international bond markets. It will also suspend international
funds and aid to Pakistan such as Coalition Support Funds (CSF), money which US owes to Pakistan for
military operations. It will lessen investors’ confidence in Pakistan and also impacts its imports and
exports, widening its existing huge current account deficit (CAD).
Financial Action Task Force (FATF)
FATF is an inter‐governmental policy making body that aims to establish international standards for
combating money laundering and terrorist financing. It was established in 1989 during the G7 Summit in
Paris (France) to combat the growing problem of money laundering.
It comprises over 39 member countries including India. FATF Secretariat is housed at headquarters of
OECD in Paris, France. Initially, FATF was only dealing with developing policies to combat money
laundering. But in 2001 its purpose was expanded to act against terrorism financing.
Mandate
FATF sets standards and promote effective implementation of legal, regulatory and operational measures
for combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other related threats to integrity of international
financial system.
Functions
Sets international standards to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
Assess and monitor compliance with the FATF standards.
Conducts studies of money laundering and terrorist financing methods, trends and techniques.

Responds to new and emerging threats, such as proliferation financing used for promoting
proliferation of nuclear, chemical and biological weapons.
US postpones 2+2 dialogue with India
United States of America (US) has postponed its inaugural 2+2 dialogue with India which was scheduled
to be held on July 6, 2018 in Washington DC, citing “unavoidable reasons”. Both countries are now
identifying new mutually convenient dates to hold dialogue at the earliest, either in India or in US. This is
third time that 2+2 dialogue has been postponed in the last six months.
India-US 2+2 Dialogue
India-US 2+2 Dialogue format was agreed to between two countries during visit of Prime Minister
Narendra Modi to US in June, 2017. It was aimed at replacing earlier India-US Strategic and Commercial
Dialogue. It is aimed enhancing strategic coordination between both countries and maintaining peace and
stability in Indo-Pacific region. It puts strategic, defence and security relationship between the two
countries at the forefront and centre stage. It insulates India-US strategic relationship from feuds over
trade issues and deep divide on economic integration policies as trade and commercial issues that collided
with strategic relationship between both countries’ discussed in Strategic and Commercial Dialogue
earlier. It is similar to India-Japan 2+2 dialogue format between foreign and defence secretaries of the two
countries.
June 30, 2018
Indian Railways eliminates all unmanned level crossings from four zones
The Indian Railways has eliminated all unmanned level crossings (UMLC) from its four zones viz. West
Central Railway, Central Railway, Eastern Railway and South East Central Railway. These four zones
aggregating 11,545 route kilometers have now become UMLC free on broad gauge route.
Key Facts
Indian Railways has target of September 2018 for eliminating UMLC in 11 zones of its total 16 zones. For
the remaining zones, the target is has been set before 2020. So far, all UMLCs on routes having speed
more than 100 kmph and on suburban routes have been eliminated, except 13 such crossings in South
Central Railway which will be completed by July 2018.
Elimination all unmanned level crossings
Union Railway Ministry has taken series of safety steps to prevent accidents at these unmanned railway
crossings. Indian Railways has around 30,348 level crossings, out of which 11,563 i.e. nearly 40%, are
unmanned. Some of safety initiatives undertaken at these unmanned railway crossings include closing
of many crossings, construction of rail overbridge and rail underbridge. At certain places Gate Mitra and
Gate Counsellors are also deployed. Indian Railways also has partnered with India Space Research
Organistion (ISRO) to safety crossing system using Geo-spatial technologies. These technologies will
include combination of Global Positioning System (GPS), Geographic Information System (GIS) and
Remote Sensing in order to send mobile message alerts to people in vicinity of an unmanned level
crossing.
PM lays foundation stone of National Centre for Ageing at AIIMS in New Delhi
Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid the foundation stone for National Centre for Ageing at All India
Institutes of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), New Delhi. The Centre will be developed at cost of Rs. 330 crores
and shall be completed by February 2020.
National Centre for Ageing
The Centre will provide state of art clinical care to elderly population and shall play key role in guiding
research in field of geriatric medicine and related specialties. It will also serve as key training facility for
under graduate and post graduate courses. It will provide multi-specialty health care and will have 200
general ward beds, which will include 20 medical ICU beds.
555 bed Super Speciality Block in Safdarjung Hospital
Prime Minister also inaugurated 555 bed Super Speciality Block in Safdarjung Hospital, New Delhi which
hosts tertiary care facilities in areas of cardiovascular sciences, neurosciences, pulmonary medicine,
nephrology and endocrinology He also dedicated 300 bedded Power Grid Vishram Sadan funded by the
Power Grid Corporation in AIIMS. It is 300 bedded night shelter facility meant for patients and their
relatives visiting AIIMS main hospital and JPNA Trauma centre at AIIMS. He also inaugurated
underground tunnel providing connecting facility between AIIMS and JPNA Trauma Centre, reducing
commute time between the two centers.
Integral Coach Factory launches first stainless steel bodied MEMU
The Integral Coach Factory (ICF) for first time has rolled out three phase energy efficient eight car
Mainline Electric Multiple Unit (MEMU) train set built with stainless steel bodies in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
MEMU is suburban train system that caters to needs of medium distance inter-city passengers.
Key Facts
Rake formation: The stainless steel MEMU consists of eight coaches — two driving motor coaches (DMC)
at both ends with seating capacity of 55 passengers and standing capacity of 171 passengers (total 226
passengers) in each coach and six trailer coaches (TC) with seating capacity of 84 passengers and standing
capacity of 241 (total 325 passengers) in each coach. Thus, total carrying capacity of this stainless steel
MEMU rake is 2402 passengers.
Key Features: The MEMU is manufactured with stainless steel coach body and has aerodynamically
shaped stainless steel front end nose for reduced air resistance, thereby saving in energy. It runs on self-
propelled 25 kv AC Overhead Traction, supported by Regenerative braking system. It saves energy
consumption up to 35% as compared to conventional EMU and MEMU trains. Its maximum speed is
110kmph
It has additional features like CCTV installed in each coaches for enhanced passenger safety. In addition, it
has GPS based Passenger Information System (PIS) and Passenger Address System (PAS) in its all coaches.
Even its loco pilot cabin also has been provided with CCTV cameras. Moreover, its every coach has been
provided with modular toilets.
Integral Coach Factory (ICF)
ICF is manufacturer of rail coaches located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It was established in 1952. It is owned
and operated by Indian Railways. It primarily manufactures rolling stock for Indian Railways and also
exports railway coaches to other countries including Thailand, Myanmar, Taiwan, Zambia, Philippines,
Tanzania, Uganda, Vietnam, Nigeria, Mozambique, Bangladesh, Angola and Sri Lanka. It employs about
11,095 people and manufactures about 2000 coaches per year.
NITI Aayog, GNFC ink SoI for research on Blockchain Technology for fertilizer subsidy management
NITI Aayog has signed Statement of Intent (SOI) with Gujarat Narmada Valley Fertilizers & Chemicals
Limited (GNFC) to work together for implementing Proof-of-Concept (PoC) application for fertilizer
subsidy management using Blockchain Technology.
Key Facts
Under this collaboration, NITI Aayog and GNFC will jointly develop PoC application, under take research,
develop blockchain solutions, exchange learnings, organise forums, and disseminate learnings across their
networks. PoC’s learnings, insights and outcomes will enable NITI Aayog to suggest policy
recommendations and actions in strengthening subsidy mechanism, making it more transparent and
immune to leakages.
Background
Fertilizer units manufacture approximately 31 Million MT of fertilizers across country. Government
annually disburses approximately Rs. 70,000 crore of subsidy to manufacturing units. The subsidy
disbursal takes two to three months’ time. Moreover, there are multiple entities involved in verification
process, which makes transaction process very cumbersome which has potential to be automated to give
significant efficiency gains. With implementation of blockchain Technology, it is expected that
distribution will become effective and efficient, and subsidy transfer could be automated and made real
time.
Significance
Blockchain platform have inherent characteristics of distributed computing and ledger for keeping of
transactions i.e. authenticity, confidentiality, non-repudiation, data integrity and data availability.
Implementation of this platform for fertilizer subsidy management will ensure that there is no
dependence on intermediary agencies to prove validity of transactions and resulting subsidy claims. The

blockchain based process will also use smart contracts which will enable quick and accurate reconciliation
of transactions between multiple parties with minimal human intervention. It will also ensure
transparency in the process as transactions cannot be altered and audit trails of transactions are available.
ReUnite Mobile app launched to trace missing children
The Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation has launched mobile application “ReUnite”
in New Delhi to track and trace missing and abandoned children in India. The app is available for both
Android and iOS. It has been developed by Nobel Laureate Kailash Satyarthi‘s NGO Bachpan Bachao
Andolan and IT company Capgemini.
Key Facts
The ReUnite app is multiuser where parents and citizens can upload pictures of children and provide
detailed description like name, address, birth mark, search and identify missing kids and report to the
police station. It uses Amazon Rekognition, a web based facial recognition service to identify missing kids.
The photographs uploaded on the app will not be saved in the mobile phone’s physical memory.
International Day of the Tropics: June 29
The International Day of Tropics is observed every year on 29 June across the world with an aim to raise
awareness to specific challenges faced by tropical areas and t far-reaching implications of issues affecting
world’s tropical zone. This day celebrates diversity of tropics and provides opportunity to share tropical
stories and expertise and to acknowledge theVineetdiversity and potential
Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | of the region.
Tropics
The Tropics are region of Earth between tropic of Cancer and tropic of Capricorn. The tropical locations
are typically warm and experience little seasonal change in day-to-day temperature, even though their
topography and other factors contribute to climatic variation. The peculiar climatic feature of Tropics is
prevalence of rain in moist inner regions near equator and increase seasonality of rainfall with distance
from the equator.
The Tropics account for 40% of world’s total surface area and are host to approximately 80% of the world’s
biodiversity and also much of its language and cultural diversity. The region is facing number of
challenges such as climate change, deforestation, logging, urbanisation and demographic changes.
Key Facts about Tropics
Ecosystem
The Tropics host nearly 95% of world’s mangrove forests by area and 99% of mangrove species. The area of
mangrove forest in all tropical regions has decreased since 1980. They have just over half of the world’s
renewable water resources (54%) and yet almost half their population is considered vulnerable to water
stress.
Biodiversity is greater in Tropics across most taxonomic groups with equivalently higher proportion of
threatened species. For those plants and animals for which there are adequate data, loss of biodiversity is
greater in Tropics than in the rest of the world.
Human system
Tropics region is consistent with higher levels of poverty, more people experience undernourishment than
in the rest of the world. Besides, proportion of urban population living in slum conditions in Tropics is
higher than in rest of the World. By 2050, the tropics region will host most of world’s people and two-
thirds of its children.
Background
The International Day of the Tropics was instituted by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 14
June 2016 by adopting resolution A/RES/70/267. The day was proclaimed to mark anniversary of launch of
‘State of the Tropics Report’ by Nobel Laureate Aung San Suu Kyi on 29 June 2014. The report was
culmination of collaboration between 12 leading tropical research institutions and offered unique
perspective on this increasingly important region.
This day aims to raise awareness to specific challenges faced by tropical areas, far-reaching implications
of issues affecting world’s tropical zone and need, at all levels, to raise awareness and to underline
important role that countries in tropics will play in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Portugal’s Antonio Vitorino elected Director General of UN’s International Migration Office
Portugal’s Antonio Manuel de Carvalho Ferreira Vitorino (61) was elected as next Director General (DG) of
International Organization for Migration (IOM), an UN Migration Agency. He will succeed incumbent DG
William Lacy Swing who will be stepping down after completing the second of two five-year terms. In this
election for top most post of IMO (held in secret ballot), Vitorino defeated Costa Rica’s Laura Thompson
who came second and US nominee Ken Isaacs who came third.
Antonio Vitorino
Antonio Vitorino had earned degree from University of Lisbon’s School of Law in 1981, as well as Master’s
Degree in Legal and Political Science. He was elected to Portugal’s Parliament in 1980. In 1983, he was
made Secretary of State for Parliamentary Affairs. He had served as Minister for National Defense and
Deputy Prime Minister within government of Antonio Guterres, who is now United Nations’ Secretary
General. He also had served as European Commissioner for Justice and Home Affairs from 1999 to 2004.
He has been President of the think tank Notre Europe since June 2011.
International Organisation for Migration (IOM)
IOM is UN Migration Agency and is leading intergovernmental organization that provides services and
advice concerning migration to governments and migrants, including refugees, internally displaced
persons and migrant workers. It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland.
It was established in 1951 as Intergovernmental Committee
Vineet Singh for European
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | Migration (ICEM) to help resettle
people displaced by World War II. It was granted Permanent Observer status to UN General Assembly in
1992. Cooperation agreement between IOM and UN was signed in 1996.
IOM works in four broad areas of migration management: Migration and development, Facilitating
migration, Regulating migration and Forced migration. It has 166 member states and 8 states holding
observer status. It has over 400 offices in more than 150 countries. It has more than 9,500 staff and 450
offices worldwide.
Odisha Government signs MoU with RIMES for effective management of all kinds of disasters
Odisha Government has singed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Regional Integrated Multi-
Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES) to enhance effective management of all kinds of disasters. The
collaboration is aimed at automating risk management, advisory generation and dissemination.
Key Facts
The partnership has been forged between Odisha State Disaster Mitigation Authority (OSDMA) and
RIMES in field of drought monitoring and early warning for different natural disasters. The collaborative
effort aims at enhance early warning system for effective management of all kinds of disasters like flood,
drought, heat wave, lightning and road accidents in the state. Initially, the MoU will be in force for 5 years
with cost involvement of about Rs. 8 crore. Under it, efforts will be made to create open-source software
platforms and public domain data sets using weather and climate information, sourced from the India
Meteorological Department (IMD.
Significance
The collaboration will help OSDMA to engage integrated multi-hazard early warning system to
strengthen its prediction and response capability. It will also strengthen OSDMA for more effective
management of natural disasters. It will also help in transfer of best practices among different countries
of world in handling natural disasters. It will also enhance warning response capacities of OSDMA by
imparting specialized expert training. It will also help to develop one-stop risk management system for all
OSDMA needs-integration of multiple data database/servers.
Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES)
The RIMES is an intergovernmental body registered under United Nations. It is owned and managed by 45
collaborating countries in Asia Pacific and Africa Region. India is chairman of the body. It was established
in 2009 and was registered with UN in July 2009.
It operates from its regional early warning centre located at campus of Asian Institute of Technology in
Pathumthani, Thailand. It has evolved from efforts of countries in Africa and Asia in aftermath of 2004
Indian Ocean tsunami.
Mandate: It seeks to establish regional early warning system within multi-hazard framework for

generation and communication of early warning information and capacity building for preparedness and
response to trans-boundary hazards. It provides information related to Tsunami and extreme weather
conditions. It also acts as a test bed for emerging technologies and help to enhance performance.
Prime Minister’s Safe Motherhood Campaign: Madhya Pradesh awarded for reducing maternal mortality
Madhya Pradesh was awarded by Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare for reducing maternal
mortality under Prime Minister’s Safe Motherhood Campaign (Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva
Abhiyan-PMSMA). The state was awarded for registering unprecedented 48-digit decline in maternal
deaths from 2014 to 2016 as per report of Registrar General of India (RGI).
Key Facts
The maternal mortality rate in Madhya Pradesh was 221 in 2011-13, which has now dropped down further
to just 173. This accounts to significant 22% decline in the last three years in the state. State Government’s
various awareness programmes like institutional delivery, Auxiliary Nursing Midwifery (ANM),
Anganwadi workers, knock-out campaigns etc. have played pivotal role in reducing maternal mortality
rate and this decline will be more noticeable in the coming years.
Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan (PMSMA)
PMSMA or Prime Minister’s Safe Motherhood Campaign was launched by Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare to provide free health check-ups to pregnant women at government health centres and hospitals
in both rural and urban areas. It is national programme that aims to provide pregnant ladies free ante-
natal services (ANC) and required treatment for free on 9th of every month. Private practitioners will play
a critical role in supplementing the efforts of the Government.
Objectives of PMSMA
Provide healthy life to the pregnant women.
Lowering the maternity mortality rate and infant mortality rate.
Making pregnant women aware of their health issues and diseases.
Making sure safe delivery and healthy life of the baby.
Intended Beneficiaries: The programme is applicable only for pregnant women in their pregnancy period of 3
to 6 months (i.e. in their 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy). It is expected to provide free antenatal care
to about 3 crore pregnant women across the country.
Facilities: The programme will provide assured, comprehensive and quality antenatal care on 9th of every

month (fixed day). Under it all kinds of medical checkups are provided completely free to pregnant
women. Besides, free checkups including blood pressure, sugar level, weight, haemoglobin test, blood test
and screening will be also provided. These checkups can take place at medical centres, government and
private hospitals and private clinics across the country.
Colour Coding: One of the critical components of this programme is mark women differently using
different colour stickers based on their health problems so that doctors can easily detect the problem.
Women will be marked differently using different colour stickers based on their health problems so that
doctors can easily detect the problem. Red Sticker for women with high risk pregnancy, Green Sticke for
women with no risk factor detected.
NITI Aayog releases First Delta Ranking of Aspirational Districts
The NITI Aayog has released first Delta ranking for 108 aspirational districts to measure their incremental
progress across five developmental areas during two month period of April and May 2018. For these
rankings, total 49 key performance indicators were mapped across five developmental areas: health and
nutrition, education, financial inclusion and skill development, agriculture and water resources and basic
Infrastructure.
Key Facts
In the first edition of Delta rankings, 108 districts out of total 112 had participated. The districts started
entering data from April 1, 2018 in the “Champions of Change” dashboard. Some of the data points for this
ranking were sourced from ministries of central government, including those of financial inclusion, skill
development and three indicators of basic infrastructure. Most of the data points, however, have been self-
reported by the various districts themselves.
Performance of districts
Most improved aspirational districts: Dahod (Gujarat, rank: 1st), West Sikkim district (Sikkim, 2nd).
Ramanathapuram district (Tamil Nadu, 3rd) and Vizianagaram (Andhra Pradesh, 4th) and YSR Kadapa
district (Andhra Pradesh, 5th).
Least improved aspirational districts: Kupwara (Jammu and Kashmir), Begusarai (Bihar), Ranchi
(Jharkhand), Simdega (Jharkhand) and Khagaria( Bihar) were listed as first to fifth aspirational districts,
respectively, in least improved states.
Significance of Delta rankings
The purpose of Delta rankings is to spur sense of competition among dynamic teams in aspirational
districts. It will also serve as tool to identify sectors and indicator specific challenges so that Team India,
which is driving Transformation of Aspirational Districts programme can take immediate corrective
measures.
The ranking takes step further and looks into specific aspects of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
and analyses how districts have performed across important sectors. This grouping and positioning will

aidDistrict Magistrates or Collectors to focus more on these sectors and improve their ranking in future.
Transformation of Aspirational Districts programme
The programme launched in January 2018 aims to quickly and effectively transform some of most
underdeveloped districts of the country. The programme envisages rapid development of selected
districts on basis of composite index based on five parameters health and nutrition, education, financial
inclusion, skill development, agriculture and water resources and basic infrastructure. It focuses closely
on improving people’s ability to participate fully in burgeoning economy. It seeks to bring these indicators
in selected districts at par with the better performing districts in the country. Broad contours of the
programme are Convergence of Central and State Schemes; Collaboration of Central, State level ‘Prabhari’
Officers and District Collectors and Competition among districts driven by Mass Movement or Jan Andolan.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Which country to host the 2018 International Conference on TRIPS- CBD Linkage?
[A] India
[B] Indonesia
[C] Australia
[D] Switzerland
Correct Answer: D [Switzerland ] Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Notes:
The 2018 International Conference on TRIPS- CBD Linkage will be held in Geneva, Switzerland on 7-8
June 2018. The conference will bring together indigenous people/local communities in developing and
developed countries, internationally acclaimed academicians working on the subject, Geneva-based
negotiators and capital based experts. Resource persons, stakeholders and experts from a large number
of countries, including Brazil, China, India, Indonesia, Peru, Philippines, New Zealand, South Africa,
Switzerland, and the US, would participate in the international conference. The Convention on Biological
Diversity (CBD) is a multilateral agreement on sustainable development and fair and equitable sharing of
benefits arising out of the utilization of genetic resource. It has membership of 196 countries.
2. What is the theme of the 2018 World Milk Day (WMD) in India?
[A] Drink Move Be Strong
[B] Milk: A Healthy Drink
[C] Natural Drink for Health
[D] Be Strong Be Healthy
Correct Answer: A [Drink Move Be Strong]
Notes:
The World Milk Day (WMD) is observed every year by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on
June 1 to recognize the importance of milk as a global food. The day is intended to provide an
opportunity to bring attention to activities that are connected with the dairy sector. Interestingly, this is
an event which does not follow a specific theme worldwide. Instead, different countries, governments
and non-governmental organizations get to pick a theme of their own. The WMD 2018 theme in India is
“Drink Move Be Strong”. Milk is enriched with nutrients like calcium, protein, vitamin B2, potassium,
iodine, etc.
3. Which Indian cricketer has been honoured with the ‘Most inspiring icon of the year for Social
Welfare’ award by the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF)?
[A] M S Dhoni
[B] Virat Kohli
[C] Yuvraj Singh
[D] Sachin Tendulkar
Correct Answer: C [Yuvraj Singh]
Notes:
Indian star cricketer Yuvraj Singh has been honoured with the ‘Most inspiring icon of the year for Social
Welfare’ award by the Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival (DPIFF) for his exemplary
contribution in the field of social welfare. Yuvraj, who was a member of India’s 2011 World Cup winning

squad, was diagnosed with cancer (mediastinal seminoma) shortly after the World Cup. After
successfully completing his chemotherapy cycle in the United States, Yuvraj returned to India in 2012
and made his international comeback in a Twenty20 match against New Zealand. Post his diagnosis,
Yuvraj launched the YouWeCan foundation to fight Cancer by spreading awareness about the aggressive
disease.
4. The first biannual Indian Air Force Commanders’ Conference 2018 was held in which city?
[A] Pune
[B] Guwahati
[C] New Delhi
[D] Mumbai
Correct Answer: C [New Delhi]
Notes:
The first biannual Indian Air Force Commanders’ Conference was inaugurated by Defence Minister
Nirmala Sitharaman at Air Headquarters in New Delhi on May 31, 2018. The two day conference will
discuss operational, maintenance and administrative takeaways identified during the military exercise
‘Gagan Shakti-2018′ and the way ahead. The aim of the Gagan Shakti-2018, which was conducted in
April 2018, was real time coordination, deployment and employment of air power in a short and intense
battle scenario.
5. Who will be honoured with the ‘Hero to Animals Award 2018’ from People for the Ethical
Treatment of Animals (PETA) India?
[A] Zubeen Garg
[B] Zarine Khan
[C] Sadaa Sayed
[D] Rani Mukerji
Correct Answer: A [Zubeen Garg]
Notes:
Assamese Singer Zubeen Garg will be honoured with the ‘Hero to Animals Award’ from People for the
Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India for his recent appeal to end animal sacrifice at the Kamakhya
Temple in Assam. Zubeen had expressed his anguish over the ritual of animal sacrifice and appealed for
putting an end to the practice while performing at a Bihu function near the temple recently. The priests
of the Kamakhya Temple had subsequently criticised Zubeen for his statement and demanded an
apology from him at the earliest.
6. Pandurang Phundkar, who passed away recently, was associated with which political party?
[A] Bharatiya Janata Party
[B] Indian National Congress
[C] Nationalist Congress Party
[D] Communist Party of India
Correct Answer: A [Bharatiya Janata Party]
Notes:
Pandurang Phundkar (67), the Maharashtra Agriculture Minister and senior BJP leader, has passed away
in Mumbai on May 31, 2018. He was a member of 9th Lok Sabha, 10th Lok Sabha and 11th Lok Sabha from
Akola (Lok Sabha constituency) from Maharashtra. He was also former president of State BJP.
Pandurang was elected as the member of Maharashtra Legislative Assembly from Khamgaon (Vidhan
Sabha constituency) in 1978 and 1980. He was sworn in as a Cabinet Minister in Devendra Fadnavis
government on July 8, 2016.
7. Who is the newly appointed Secretary in the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (I&B)?
[A] Jayashree Mukherjee
[B] Dhiraj Singh
[C] Amit Khare
[D] Anita Chugh

Correct Answer: C [Amit Khare]

Notes:
Amit Khare, a 1985-batch IAS officer of the Jharkhand cadre, has taken assumed charge as new Secretary
in the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting (I&B). He succeeded Narendra Kumar Sinha. Prior to
the appointment as Secretary, Khare was Additional Chief Secretary in Jharkhand government. During a
career span of more than 33 years, Khare has held various field postings and has worked from grassroots
to the higher levels of governance in both State and Central Governments. He has also worked as
Member Secretary in the Department of Pharmaceuticals, Union Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers and
Joint Secretary in the Department of Higher Education, Union Ministry of Human Resource
Development (HRD).
8. Which union ministry has launched an online Analytical tool to monitor foreign contributions
by various organisations under FCRA?
[A] Ministry of Finance
[B] Ministry of Home Affairs
[C] Ministry of External Affairs
[D] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Home Affairs]
Notes: Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
On June 1, the Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh has launched an online analytical tool to facilitate
closer monitoring of the flow and utilization of foreign contributions received by various organisations
registered under the Foreign Contribution (Regulation) Act 2010. The web-based tool enables decision-
makers in various Departments of Government to scrutinize source of foreign funds and their actual use
in India. It has analytical features to conduct big data mining and data exploration. Its dashboard will be
integrated with the bank accounts of the FCRA-registered entities through the Public Financial
Management System for updation of transactional data on a real-time basis. There are approximately 25
thousand active organisations registered under the FCRA. Foreign Contributions worth 8,065 crores
rupees were received by such organisations from foreign donors for various social, cultural, economic,
educational and religious activities during financial year 2016-17.
9. The Somasila Dam is located in which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Karnataka
[C] Odisha
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Somasila Dam is built across the Penna River near Somasila in Nellore district of Andhra Pradesh.
The reservoir impounded by the dam has a surface area of 212.28 km2 with live storage capacity of 1.994
km3.
10. The first official World Bicycle Day (WBD-2018) is observed on which date?
[A] June 1
[B] June 2
[C] June 3
[D] June 4
Correct Answer: C [June 3]
Notes:
The first official World Bicycle Day (WBD) is observed by United Nations (UN) on 3rd June 2018 to
encourage a simple, affordable, reliable, clean and environmentally fit sustainable means of
transportation. On this occasion, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu flagged off a cycling event at
Connaught Place in New Delhi Nearly five thousand cyclists participated in the 8km long event. New
Delhi Municipal Council has organised the event in association with World Cycling Alliance.
11. India has recently signed Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) in nursing with which

country?
[A] Singapore
[B] Indonesia
[C] Malaysia
[D] Philippines
Correct Answer: A [Singapore]
Notes:
India has recently signed Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) in nursing with Singapore which would
allow nurses trained in seven nursing institutions across India to gain employment in the South-East
Asian country. MRAs pave the way for recognition of the professional bodies of one country by the other.
Regulatory bodies of various professional services like engineering, nursing, accountancy and
architecture are encouraged to enter into these pacts. These pacts are part of free trade agreements
(FTAs) that India has signed with several regions, including Singapore, Japan, South Korea and Asean.
India and Singapore entered into FTA in August 2005.
12. Which state government has launched the scheme “Gopabandhu Sambadika Swasthya Bima
Yojana” for journalists?
[A] Punjab
[B] Odisha
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: B [Odisha ]
Notes:
The Odisha government has launched the health insurance scheme “Gopabandhu Sambadika Swasthya
Bima Yojana” for working journalists in the state. It will be implemented with effect from June 1, 2018. In
the first phase, as many as 3,233 working journalists will get health insurance coverage up to Rs 2 lakh a
year. Under the scheme, at least five members of the journalists family will be covered. The scribes will
get their health insurance card from the District Information and Public Relations Officer (DIPRO) in
their respective districts.
13. Kendrick Lamar has been honoured with the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for music. He belongs to which
country?
[A] South Africa
[B] United States
[C] Russia
[D] Egypt
Correct Answer: B [United States]
Notes:
Kendrick Lamar, an American rapper and songwriter, has won the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Music for his
acclaimed album ‘Damn’ at Columbia University in New York. With this, Damn has created history by
becoming the first non-classical and non-jazz work to earn the accolade.
14. Which automobile company has signed a MoU with Maharashtra government to promote e-
Mobility in the State?
[A] Tata Motors Ltd
[B] Mahindra & Mahindra Ltd
[C] Maruti Suzuki India Ltd
[D] Hero MotoCorp Ltd
Correct Answer: A [Tata Motors Ltd]
Notes:
Tata Motors Ltd. has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the State Government of
Maharashtra for deployment of 1000 Electric Vehicles (EV) across its range of passenger and commercial
vehicles in the State. The company also partnered Tata group company, Tata Power Ltd to set up of EV
Charging Stations in the State. The MoU will boost the Maharashtra Electric Vehicle Policy 2018 in
accelerating the adoption of Evs in Maharashtra.
15. Who has been appointed as the new Director General of the Geological Survey of India (GSI)?
[A] N Kutumba Rao
[B] Dinesh Gupta
[C] Neel Tripathi
[D] Shubhankar Mittal
Correct Answer: B [Dinesh Gupta]
Notes:
Dr. Dinesh Gupta, an officer of the 1983 UPSC batch, has been appointed as the new Director General
(DG) of the Geological Survey of India (GSI). He took over from N Kutumba Rao to become the 47th DG of
the GSI. Gupta is an expert in mineral exploration and responsibility has been given to him to steer GSI
in this field.
16. Who has been sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Italy?
[A] Matteo Salvini
[B] Sergio Mattarella
[C] Giuseppe Conte Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[D] Luigi Di Maio

Correct Answer: C [Giuseppe Conte]
Notes:
Giuseppe Conte, an academic and political novice, has been sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Italy
on June 1, 2018. He succeeded the Democrat Paolo Gentiloni. Conte will head a government of ministers
from the anti-establishment Five Star Movement (M5S) and the far-right League Party. According to
many journalists and political commentators, Conte’s cabinet is the first populist government in
Western Europe.
17. Under whose chairmanship executive committee has been constituted by the Union
Government to spread Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy among people?
[A] Narendra Modi
[B] Ram Nath Kovind
[C] A T Ariyaratne
[D] Ajit Doval
Correct Answer: A [Narendra Modi]
Notes:
The Union Government has set up an executive committee, under the chairmanship of Prime Minister
Narendra Modi to spread Mahatma Gandhi’s legacy among the people at the national and international
level. The committee comprises, senior cabinet ministers, the leader of opposition in the Rajya Sabha,
renowned Gandhians, social activists and noted public figures. The panel was formed after the first
meeting of the National Committee (NC) under the chairmanship of President Ram Nath Kovind to
commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. During the meeting, it was decided to
form a sub-committee to consider policies and lay down guidelines for the celebrations. The NC has 125
members, of which 116 are from India. Other members are acclaimed foreign members.
18. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has launched a new EPS to predict severity and
intensity of weather. What does “EPS” stands for?
[A] Ensemble Prediction Systems
[B] Enable Prediction Systems
[C] Epact Prediction Systems
[D] Emanate Prediction Systems
Correct Answer: A [Ensemble Prediction Systems]
Notes:
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has launched a new Ensemble Prediction Systems (EPS) to
provide probabilistic weather forecasts up to the next 10 days. According to IMD, these new systems
shall improve upon deterministic forecasts that are prone to high margins of error. These systems also
use a higher resolution 12 km grid scale, instead of the 23 km resolution that has been in use till now.
The forecast related to the intensity of the weather will also be more accurate and colour coded. The new
model has been developed jointly by Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology and National Centre for
Medium-Range Weather Forecasting. With this new model, India joins the US with a model that predicts
with a 12 km resolution. Only the ‘European Center for Medium Range Weather Forecast’ has a better 9-
kilometer resolution. Better forecasts lead to better management agriculture and water resources. It
also helps promote tourism, solar and wind energy.
19. Who of the following has been conferred with the ‘Santokbaa Humanitarian’ award 2018?
[A] Dalai Lama and Sudha Murthy
[B] Narayan Desai and Gautam Navlakha
[C] Kailash Satyarthi and A S Kiran Kumar
[D] Parvez Imroz and Akshay Kumar
Correct Answer: C [Kailash Satyarthi and A S Kiran Kumar]
Notes:
President Ram Nath Kovind has recently presented the ‘Santokbaa Humanitarian Award’ to two noted
personalities viz. Child rights activist and Noble Laureate Kailash Satyarthi and space scientist A S Kiran
Kumar, former chairman of Indian SpaceVineet Research Organisation (ISRO) in Surat, Gujarat. The award,
instituted by Shree Ramkrishna Knowledge Foundaton (SRKKF) and led by diamond baron Govind
Dholakia, includes a trophy and a prize money of Rs 1 crore each to the awardees. SRKKF confers the
award every year for humanitarian contributions by individuals whose life and work are characterised
by their selfless and inspiring service.
20. Which country is hosting the 2018 BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting?
[A] Brazil
[B] South Africa
[C] India
[D] China
Correct Answer: B [South Africa]
Notes:
The BRICS Foreign Ministers’ meeting has started in the South African city of Johannesburg on June 4,
2018. The meeting is expected to lay the foundation for 2018 annual summit of the grouping which will
also be held in Johannesburg. The BRICS comprises Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa.
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj is leading the Indian delegation. Beside this, Mrs Swaraj will
also chair a meeting of Foreign Ministers of IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa), another bloc working to
deepen coordination among the three countries on major global issues. She will also attend a series of
events marking the 125th anniversary of the historic incident where a young Mahatma Gandhi was
thrown out of a train compartment in Pietermaritzburg railway station in 1893. The incident proved to
be a turning point in Mahatma Gandhi’s fight against racial discrimination in South Africa.
21. Which of the following agendas will be discussed in the 49th Conference of Governors and
Lieutenant Governors?
[A] Clean India mission
[B] Internal security
[C] Skill development
[D] All of the above
Correct Answer: D [All of the above]
Notes:
The 49th Conference of Governors and Lieutenant Governors has started at Rashtrapati Bhavan in New
Delhi on June 4, 2018. The 2-day conference was commenced with the inaugural address by the
President Ram Nath Kovind. The important agendas listed for conference are such as Clean India
mission, internal security, higher education and skill development. The conference will discuss
important thematic issues in various sessions. Governors will also discuss ideas on how to
commemorate the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

22. Who has been sworn in as the new Prime Minister of Spain?
[A] Susana Diaz
[B] Patxi Lopez
[C] Adolfo Suarez
[D] Pedro Sanchez
Correct Answer: D [Pedro Sanchez]
Notes:
Pedro Sanchez of the Spanish Socialist Workers’ Party (PSOE) has been officially sworn in as the new
Prime Minister of Spain on June 1 after the success of a motion of no confidence against former Prime
Minister Mariano Rajoy. Being an atheist, Mr Sanchez became the first Spanish prime minister to take
the oath to protect the Spanish constitution without a bible or crucifix since the country transferred to
democracy in 1977. He plans to see out the remaining two years of the parliamentary term.
23. Who is the newly elected President of Egypt?
[A] Sami Anan
[B] Shadi Ghazali Harb
[C] Sherif Ismail
[D] Abdel Fattah al-Sisi Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: D [Abdel Fattah al-Sisi]

Notes:
In Egypt, President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has been sworn-in for a second four-year term in office as the
country faces major economic and security challenges. Sisi won 97% of valid votes in the March
presidential election.
24. India’s first advanced DNA forensic laboratory will come up in which city?
[A] Mumbai
[B] Kolkata
[C] Chandigarh
[D] Guwahati
Correct Answer: C [Chandigarh]
Notes:
Maneka Gandhi, the Union Minister for Women and Child Development (WCD), has laid the foundation
stone of India’s first advanced DNA forensic laboratory “Sakhi Suraksha” in the campus of Central
Forensic Science Lab of Chandigarh as part efforts to reduce the backlog of cases needing advanced
forensic analysis. It will be built at a cost of Rs 99.76 crore from the Nirbhaya Fund. The state-of-the-art
lab will assist in investigation and prosecution of crimes including those committed against women and
children. It will contribute to address the gap in forensic DNA analysis of pending sexual assault cases in
the country. Forensic science plays a vital role in the criminal justice delivery system by providing
investigators with scientifically based information through the analysis of physical evidence.
25. As per which section of the Income Tax Act , the Charitable Religious Institutions shall be
eligible for grant under the scheme ‘Seva Bhoj Yojna’?
[A] Section 10 (23BBA)
[B] Section 19 (23BBA)
[C] Section 13 (23BBA)
[D] Section 12 (23BBA)
Correct Answer: A [Section 10 (23BBA)]
Notes:
On June 1, the Union Ministry of Culture has launched a new scheme called ‘Seva Bhoj Yojna’ with a total
outlay of Rs. 325 Crores for Financial Years 2018-19 and 2019-20. The scheme seeks to reimburse the
Central Government share of CGST and IGST so as to lessen the financial burden of such Charitable
Religious Institutions who provide Food/Prasad/Langar (Community Kitchen)/Bhandara free of cost
without any discrimination to Public/Devotees. The Charitable Religious Institutions such as Temples,

Gurudwara, Mosque, Church, Dharmik Ashram, Matth, etc. which have been in existence for at least 5
years before applying for financial assistance/grant and who serve free food to at least 5000 people in a
month and such institutions covered under Section 10 (23BBA) of the Income Tax Act or Institutions
registered as Society under Societies Registration Act ( XXI of 1860) or as a Public Trust under any law
for the time being in force of statuary religious bodies constituted under any Act or institutions
registered under Section 12AA of Income Tax Act shall be eligible for grant under the scheme.
26. What is the India’s rank in the Save the Children’s “End of Childhood Index 2018”?
[A] 116th
[B] 113th
[C] 118th
[D] 110th
Correct Answer: B [113th]
Notes:
India has been ranked 113th among 175 countries in the “End of Childhood Index 2018”, issued by global
child rights group “Save the Children”. The Index which is part of the report titled “The Many Faces of
Exclusion” indicated that the child marriages in India have come down to 15.2% from 21.1% in 2017. It is
significant to point that the child marriage data assessed does not include data on consensual unions.
However, the Index shows that under five mortality rate (deaths per 1000 live births) was 43 which is a
cause of concern. Also child stunting (children aged 0-59 months) was 38.4% and rated as high. The
Index ranked countries with regards to where childhood is threatened as a result of poor health,
malnutrition, exclusion from education, child labour, child marriage, early pregnancy and extreme
violence. Singapore and Slovenia are placed at the top sharing the first place in the index and Niger
figures at the end of the list at 175.
27. Indian Navy has recently rescued 38 stranded Indians from cyclone hit Socotra Island. The
Island is located in which country?
[A] Egypt
[B] Saudi Arabia
[C] Yemen
[D] Oman
Correct Answer: C [Yemen]
Notes:
On June 3, the Indian Navy evacuated 38 stranded Indians from Socotra Island in Yemen where they
were stranded for nearly 10 days after a severe Cyclonic storm Mekunu hit the area. The Navy evacuated
the Indians as part of operation code name ‘NISTAR’, carried out off the coast of Socotra and embarked
them at Indian Naval ship INS Sunayna to bring them back to India. The evacuated Indians were
immediately provided with medical care, food, water and telephone facilities to call and reassure their
families at home. The Island of Socotra is considered the jewel of biodiversity in the Arabian Sea and is
recognised as a world natural heritage site by UNESCO in 2008. It is one of the most isolated landforms
on Earth that a third of its plant life is found nowhere else on the planet. Notable are the dragon’s blood
trees that look like flying saucers perched on trunks.
28. Which country is hosting the 3rd Asia Cup International Bridge Championship 2018?
[A] Japan
[B] Singapore
[C] Thailand
[D] India
Correct Answer: D [India]
Notes:
India is hosting the 3rd Asia Cup International Bridge Championship 2018 in Goa from June 4 and will
see participation from countries including Australia, Bangladesh, China, Japan and Korea. The
championship will be contested in five categories namely men, women, mixed, super-mixed and senior.
Players from Australia, Bangladesh, China, Hong Kong, Chinese Taipei, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Pakistan,
Singapore and Thailand will be participating in the event. Round robin matches will be played from the
June 5-8. Four top teams in each category will progress to the knock-out stage. Semi-finals will be

contested on June 9 and. The finals and play-offs for 3rd place will be played on June 10. The tournament
will also have a Match Point pairs contest which is an open event.
29. Timothy Pereira, who passed away recently, was associated with which sports?
[A] Football
[B] Boxing
[C] Polo
[D] Chess
Correct Answer: A [Football]
Notes:
Timothy Pereira (75), the former international footballer who represented Tata FC, has passed away in
Mumbai on June 1, 2018. He played for the country in 1967-68. Pereira also played hockey and
represented Catholic Gymkhana in the local league.
30. Which union ministry has launched ‘Krishi Kalyan Abhiyaan’ to help farmers in raising their
income?
[A] Ministry of Rural Development
[B] Ministry of Agriculture and farmers welfare
[C] Ministry of Panchayati Raj
[D] Ministry of Food Processing Industries
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Agriculture and farmers welfare]
Notes:
The Ministry of Agriculture and farmers welfare in line with the Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision
of doubling farmers’ income by 2022 has launched the Krishi kalyan Abhiyaan from 1st June to 31st July,
2018. The purpose of the scheme is to aid, assist and advice farmers on how to improve their farming
techniques and raise their incomes. The Krishi kalyan Abhiyaan will be undertaken in 25 Villages with
more than 1000 population each in Aspirational Districts identified in consultation with Ministry of
Rural Development as per directions of NITI Ayog. In districts where number of villages (with more than
1000 population) is less than 25, all villages will be covered. Farm science centres called Krishi Vigyan
Kendras (KVKs) will coordinate and implement the programme.
31. Under which campaign the ‘Jan Aushadhi Suvidha’- the Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkin
has been launched by the Union Government?
[A] Pradhan Mantri Gramin Janaushadhi Pariyojana
[B] Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana
[C] Pradhan Mantri Nagariya Janaushadhi Pariyojana
[D] Pradhan Mantri Nari Janaushadhi Pariyojana
Correct Answer: B [Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana]
Notes:
Minister of State for Chemicals and Fertilizers, Mansukh L Mandaviya launched the ‘Jan Aushadhi
Suvidha’- the Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkin under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi
Pariyojana (PMBJP) in New Delhi on June 4, 2018. The affordable sanitary napkins will become available
at over 3600 Janaushadhi Kendras functional in 33 States/ UTs across India. Jan Aushadhi Suvidha
comes with a special additive, which makes it biodegradable when it comes in contact with oxygen after
being discarded. The average price of sanitary napkins available in the market today is around Rs 8 per
pad, whereas the cost of SUVIDHA napkins is Rs 2.50 per pad.
32. Which country is the global host nation for the 43rd edition of World Environment Day (WED
-2018) event?
[A] Belgium
[B] Norway
[C] South Korea
[D] India

Correct Answer: D [India ]

Notes:
India is the global host nation for the 43rd edition of World Environment Day (WED -2018) event, which
has started on June 5, 2018. Environment Ministers, representatives from United Nations and members
from various industry bodies will be among the various dignitaries who will attend the event. The day is
a platform for encouraging awareness and propagating the need for protecting the environment. The
2018 theme is “Beat Plastic Pollution”. Plastic, which is rampantly polluting our water bodies, harming
marine life and posing a threat to human health, has been one of the major concerns of environmental
bodies this year. This day is a call for awakening of individuals to take charge of protecting their
environment and to realize the severity of plastic usage in daily life.
33. Under which theme, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched the 2018 Financial Literacy
Week?
[A] Digital Safety
[B] Customer Protection
[C] Banking Rules
[D] Your liability
Correct Answer: B [Customer Protection]
Notes: Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
On June 4, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched Financial Literacy Week (FLW-2018) across the
country with Customer Protection as its main theme. The event will focus on creating awareness among
customers of banks about financial products and services, good financial practices and going digital. It
will give out four consumer protection messages including ‘know your liability’ for unauthorised
electronic banking transaction and good practices for a safe digital banking experience. Among various
messages, customers will be told through banners and posters that in case of unauthorised digital
transaction if bank is informed within 3 days, the liability of the account holder is zero. Resolution of
complaint is to be done by the bank concerned within period not exceeding 90 days from the date of
receipt of the complaint.
34. Who has been appointed as the new chairperson of British Academy of Film and Television
Arts (BAFTA)?
[A] Pippa Harris
[B] Jane Lush
[C] Caro Newling
[D] Sam Mendes
Correct Answer: A [Pippa Harris]
Notes:
Veteran producer Pippa Harris has been appointed as the new chairperson of British Academy of Film
and Television Arts (BAFTA) for a period of 2 years. She will succeed Jane Lush. Prior to this post, she
was the deputy chair of BAFTA. Harris is best known as having established Neal Street Productions,
which she set up with Sam Mendes and Caro Newling in 2003 and continues to run its film and TV
division with Nicolas Brown. In the past, Harris has served as the head of drama commissioning for the
BBC where her commissions included “The Lost Prince”, “State of Play” and “Daniel Deronda”.
35. Leela Menon, who passed away recently, was associated with which field?
[A] Politics
[B] Journalism
[C] Science
[D] Law
Correct Answer: B [Journalism]
Notes:
Leela Menon (86), the senior journalist and chief editor of Malayalam daily Janmabhumi, has passed
away in Kochi, Kerala on June 3, 2018. Menon, who began her journalistic career with The Indian Express
in New Delhi in 1978, shot into the limelight for her wide-range of ‘exclusive’ stories and courageous
reporting. She used to write for The Hindu, Outlook, and regional dailies. In an era with very few

opportunities for woman in media, she broke the glass ceiling by breaking several stories of national
relevance like the rampant poverty and prostitution at Aruvacode in Malappuram district, Vypeen hooch
tragedy, Suryanelli case and Thopumpaddy prostitution racket. She exposed the first high-profile case of
‘Love Jihad. Ms. Menon penned an autobiography titled ‘Nilaykatha Symphony’.
36. NTPC Ltd has adopted the iconic Charminar in Hyderabad under the Swachh Iconic Places
Projects of India. This historical monument was built by whom?
[A] Ibrahim Quli Qutb Shah
[B] Sultan Muhammad Qutb Shah
[C] Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah
[D] Subhan Quli Qutb Shah
Correct Answer: C [Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah]
Notes:
NTPC Ltd has adopted the iconic Charminar in Hyderabad under the Swachh Iconic Places Projects of
India. This is part of a special drive under the Centre’s Swachh Bharat Mission. NTPC Ltd and the
Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) have signed an MoU for implementation of
development and beautification works under the Charminar Pedestrianization Project in Hyderabad.
The works includes providing battery-operated vehicles for visitors, bollards to prevent traffic, Swachh
Auto Tippers (SAT) for carting garbage, Vineet
mechanical sweeping vehicles and litter picking machines,
decorative and halogen lighting of four arches, construction of public utilities, toilets and drinking water
ATM kiosks. Muhammad Quli Qutb Shah, who was the fifth sultan of the Qutb Shahi dynasty of
Golkonda, founded the city of Hyderabad and built Charminar in 1591.
37. Which Indian beach has become the Asia’s first beach to get the Blue Flag certification?
[A] Chiwla beach
[B] Bhogave beach
[C] Benaulim Beach
[D] Chandrabhaga beach
Correct Answer: D [Chandrabhaga beach]
Notes:
The Chandrabhaga beach on the Konark coast of Odisha has become the Asia’s first beach to get the Blue
Flag certification — the tag given to environment-friendly and clean beaches, equipped with amenities
of international standards for tourists. The beach awarded the honour on World Environment Day
(WED) on June 5, 2018. Apart from this, 12 more Indian beaches are being developed by the Society for
Integrated Coastal Management (SICOM), an Environment Ministry’s body working for the
management of coastal areas, in accordance with the Blue Flag certification standards. Among them are
the Chiwla and Bhogave beaches in Maharashtra and one beach each from Puducherry, Goa, Daman and
Diu, Lakshadweep and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The Blue Flag beach standards were
established by Copenhagen-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE) in 1985. In order to get
the Blue Flag tag, a beach has to be plastic-free and be equipped with a waste management system.
38. Who has won the ‘National Gopal Ratna’ award from the Central Government for cattle rearing
and dairying?
[A] Preetilata Sharma
[B] Amruta Dhiraj Chilwante
[C] A. Dhiraj Ram Krishna
[D] G.S Kulkarni
Correct Answer: C [A. Dhiraj Ram Krishna]
Notes:
A. Dhiraj Ram Krishna, a young engineer from Coimbatore, has won the ‘National Gopal Ratna’ award
from the Central Government on June 2 for cattle rearing and dairying. He received the award from the
Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Radha Mohan Singh in New Delhi for ‘upkeep of the
best dairy animals of indigenous breeds’.
39. Which Indian sportsperson has won the Most Valuable Player’ (MVP) award at the Basketball

Without Borders Asia 2018?

[A] Sabina Inderjit
[B] Sukhpreet Kaur
[C] Vaishnavi Yadav
[D] Sanjana Ramesh
Correct Answer: D [Sanjana Ramesh]
Notes:
Sanjana Ramesh has won the ‘Most Valuable Player’ (MVP) award at the Basketball Without Borders Asia
2018, which featured 66 campers from 16 countries from the Asia-Pacific region. Her compatriot
Vaishnavi Yadav won the ‘Girls Grit Award’ in the camp. The camp got underway with the girls
championship game between the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx. Coached on the sidelines by
Ruth Riley and Sakshi Sheoran, the Lynx defeated the Liberty 20-13.
40. Who has been appointed a new Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?
[A] B. Shriram
[B] M.K Jain
[C] Kishor Piraji Kharat
[D] Basant Seth Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: B [M.K Jain]

Notes:
Mahesh Kumar Jain, who is currently MD & CEO of IDBI Bank, has been appointed as the fourth deputy
governor Deputy Governor of the Reserve Bank of India for a period of three years. The post was lying
vacant since the retirement of S.S. Mundra in August 2017. With more than 30 years of experience in
banking, Jain has been at the helm of IDBI Bank since March 2017. As per the RBI Act, the central bank
should have four deputy governors – two from within the ranks and one commercial banker and another
an economist to head the monetary policy department. The other deputy governors at RBI are Viral
Acharya, B.P. Kanungo and N.S. Vishwanathan.
41. Maria Fernanda Espinosa has been elected President of the 73rd United Nations General
Assembly (UNGA). She is foreign minister of which country?
[A] Ecuador
[B] Norway
[C] Belgium
[D] Brazil
Correct Answer: A [Ecuador]
Notes:
Ecuadorean foreign minister Maria Fernanda Espinosa has been elected President of the 73rd United
Nations General Assembly (UNGA), a mainly ceremonial title that nonetheless carries a high profile and
important procedural functions. Espinosa defeated Ambassador Mary Elizabeth Flores Flake of
Honduras by 128 votes to 62, with two abstentions. Espinosa will become the fourth woman ever to hold
the UNGA presidency and the first since Haya Rashed Al-Khalifa, from Bahrain, in 2006-2007. Espinosa
will assume the position in September at the start of the 73rd UN General Assembly. It is rare to have a
contested election for the position, which is normally filled by consensus without a vote. It was the turn
for Latin America and the Caribbean to nominate the assembly president based on a preset geographical
rotation. The previous women leaders of the Assembly were India’s Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit in 1953;
Liberia’s Angie Elisabeth Brooks in 1969 and Sheikha Haya Rashed Al Khalifa of Bahrain in 2006.
42. The biopic “The Making of the Mahatma” has been screened in South Africa to commemorate
the 125th year of Mahatma Gandhi’s Satyagraha. The biopic is based on which novel?
[A] The Essential Gandhi
[B] Apprenticeship of a Mahatma
[C] Satyagraha in South Africa
[D] Gandhi on non-violence

Correct Answer: B [Apprenticeship of a Mahatma]

Notes:
On June 6, the screening of the biopic ‘Making of the Mahatma’ in Pietermaritzburg marked the opening
of a three-day series of events to commemorate the historic incident 125 years ago when Mahatma
Gandhi was evicted from a train because the compartment he was in was reserved for whites only. On
the night of June 7, 1893, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a young lawyer then, was thrown off the
train’s first class compartment at Pietermaritzburg station in South Africa for refusing to give up his
seat. The incident led him to develop his Satyagraha principles of peaceful resistance and mobilise
people in South Africa and in India against the discriminatory rules of the British. The film, a co-
production between India and South Africa, was made in 1996, soon after Nelson Mandela ascended to
the position of South Africa’s first democratically-elected President. The film was directed by Shyam
Benegal based on the book ‘Apprenticeship of a Mahatma’ by late freedom activist Prof Fatima Meer.
43. The World Bank has approved how much amount for Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABHY) of
Government of India (GoI)?
[A] Rs.8000 crore
[B] Rs.5000 crore
[C] Rs.7000 crore
[D] Rs.6000 crore
Correct Answer: D [Rs.6000 crore]

Notes:
The World Bank has approved Rs.6000 crore for Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABHY), a Central Sector Scheme of
the Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation. The scheme is to be
implemented over a period of five years from 2018-19 to 2022-23, with World Bank assistance. The ABHY
has been formulated by the Ministry to address the criticality of ground water resources in a major part
of the country. The scheme proposal has already been recommended by the Expenditure Finance
Committee and the Ministry will be seeking Cabinet approval for the project shortly. The purpose of the
scheme is to improve ground water management in priority areas in the country through community
participation. The priority areas identified under the scheme fall in Gujarat, Haryana, Karnataka,
Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. These States represent about 25% of the
total number of over-exploited, critical and semi-critical blocks in terms of ground water in India.
44. Which country hosted the 2018 IBSA Foreign Ministers’ Meeting?
[A] India
[B] Brazil
[C] South Africa
[D] Argentina
Correct Answer: C [South Africa]
Notes:
The IBSA Foreign Ministers’ Meeting was held in Pretoria, South Africa on June 4, 2018. The External
Affairs Minister of the Republic of India, Sushma Swaraj chaired the IBSA (India, Brazil, South Africa)
ministerial meet and hold talks on how to deepen coordination among the three countries on major
global issues. On this occasion, Ministers adopted and jointly released the IBSA Declaration on South-
South Cooperation, to contribute to greater understanding of development cooperation as a common
endeavor of the Global South. The Ministers also considered proposed IBSA events planned for 2018-19
to mark the fifteenth-anniversary of IBSA. The Ministers agreed to host these events in all three
countries as well as on the margins of multilateral events.
45. Which country is hosting the 2018 Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Early Childhood
Development (ECD)?
[A] India
[B] Myanmar
[C] Bangladesh
[D] Nepal
Correct Answer: D [Nepal]

Notes:
The Asia-Pacific Regional Conference on Early Childhood Development (ECD) and Third Asia- Pacific
Regional Policy Forum on Early Childhood Care and Education (ECCE) have started in Kathmandu, Nepal
on June 5, 2018. The 3 day event is hosted by the Government of Nepal (Ministry of Education, Science
and Technology). Policy markers, government officials, development professional, researchers and
representatives from various organisations working in early childhood development, care and education
from 40 countries including India are participating in the conference.
46. Which ethnic Indian lawyer has been appointed as new Attorney General of Malaysia?
[A] Brendan Pereira
[B] R. Thillainathan
[C] Arun Chaudhary
[D] Tommy Thomas
Correct Answer: D [Tommy Thomas]
Notes:
Tommy Thomas, an ethnic Indian Christian lawyer, has been appointed as the new attorney general of
Malaysia. He succeeded Mohamad Apandi Ali. Tommy is the first practising lawyer to be appointed
directly from the Malaysian Bar to be the attorney general, and the first non-Malay and non-Muslim
Malaysian to hold this post. The appointment has been approved by Malaysia’s king Sultan Muhammad
V, amid protests from Islamic groups that the job must be held by a Muslim. Thus, he became the first
person from a minority community to hold the post since Malaysia was formed in 1963.
47. Who has been appointed as the new Prime Minister of Jordan?
[A] Kamel Mahadin
[B] Omar Razzaz
[C] Abdullah Ensour
[D] Faisal Al-Fayez
Correct Answer: B [Omar Razzaz]
Notes:
Omar Razzaz, a Harvard-educated former senior World Bank official, has been appointed as the new
Prime Minister of Jordan by King Abdullah II. He succeeded Hani Mulki, who recently resigned as a
result of widespread protests against his government’s austerity program. Prior to this post, Razzaz
served as education minister in the outgoing Mulki government.
48. The Supreme Court has recently allowed the Union government to implement the reservation
in promotion policy for SC/ST employees. As per which article of the Constitution, reservation in
promotions are mandated?
[A] Article 16 (4A)
[B] Article 17 (4A)
[C] Article 18 (4A)
[D] Article 21 (4A)
Correct Answer: A [Article 16 (4A) ]
Notes:
On June 5, the Supreme Court has allowed the Union government to implement the reservation in
promotion policy for SC/ST employees in accordance with the law but did not stay a Delhi High Court
judgment that had quashed an August 1997 office memorandum issued by the Centre providing for
reservation in promotions for Dalit and tribal employees. The vacation bench comprising Justices
Adarsh Kumar Goel and Ashok Bhushan allowed such reservation but added without elaboration that it
should be “in accordance with law”. As per Article 16 (4A) of the Constitution, the state would have to
make out a case for providing reservation in promotion to SC/ST based on quantifiable data. The
provision also says that the data should be based on factors like backwardness, inadequacy of
representation and overall efficiency.
49. The Kune Falls is located in which state?
[A] Madhya Pradesh

[B] Rajasthan
[C] Kerala
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: D [Maharashtra]
Notes:
The Kune Falls is a scenic waterfall situated near Kune village in Pune district of Maharashtra. It is a
three tiered waterfalls with a total height of 200m; the highest drop being 100m. The falls attracts
tourists in large numbers during the rainy season when the waterfall is in its peak form and flows down
with a huge gush. It is the 14th highest waterfall in India.
50. Who will head the group to study the Special Economic Zones (SEZ) Policy of India?
[A] Ajay Pandey
[B] Neel Raheja
[C] Baba Kalyani
[D] Anita Arjundas
Correct Answer: C [Baba Kalyani]
Notes:
The Union Government has constituted Vineet
a group of eminent persons to study the Special Economic
Zones (SEZ) Policy of India. The group will be headed by Industrialist Baba Kalyani. The group will
evaluate the SEZ policy, suggest measures to cater to the needs of exporters in the present economic
scenario and make the SEZ policy WTO compatible. The Group has to submit its recommendation in 3
months. The SEZ Policy was implemented from 1st April, 2000. Subsequently, the Special Economic
Zones Act, 2005 was passed by Parliament in May, 2005 which received Presidential assent on the 23rd
June, 2005 and the Special Economic Zone Act was enacted. The SEZ Act, 2005, supported by SEZ Rules,
came into effect on 10th February, 2006.
51. On which committee’s recommendations, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) will set up Public
Credit Registry (PCR) to check loan defaults?
[A] Viral Acharya committee
[B] YM Deosthalee committee
[C] Anita Gandhi committee
[D] K S Jain committee
Correct Answer: B [YM Deosthalee committee]
Notes:
In a bid to check loan defaults, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has considered the recommendations of
YM Deosthalee-headed High Level Task Force and will set up a Public Credit Registry (PCR) in a modular
and phased manner. The PCR is an information repository that collates all loan information of
individuals and corporate borrowers. A credit repository will help banks distinguish between a bad and a
good borrower and accordingly offer attractive interest rates to good borrowers and higher interest
rates to bad borrowers. The PCR will be the single point of mandatory reporting for all material events
for each loan, notwithstanding any threshold in the loan amount or type of borrower. Thereby, the PCR
will serve as a registry of all credit contracts, duly verified by reporting institutions, for all lending in
India and any lending by an Indian institution to a company incorporated in India.
52. The Fuego volcano has recently erupted in which country?
[A] Mexico
[B] Egypt
[C] Taiwan
[D] Guatemala
Correct Answer: D [Guatemala ]
Notes:
The Fuego volcano is an active stratovolcano in Guatemala that has recently erupted violently and
buried several villages on its southern flank. The death toll has risen to 99 in the Fuego volcano eruption.
The National Forensic Sciences Agency stated that, of the 99 people, only 28 have been identified, so far.

Some 200 people are still missing, amid fears of a new blowup of the 3,763-metre volcano. The volcano is
only 27 miles southwest of the capital Guatemala City, and ash has reached as far as the city’s airport,
forcing it to close. At its peak, the Fuego reaches 12,346 feet above sea level and it is one of the most
active volcanoes in Latin America. It sits on the Ring of Fire, a 25,000-mile horseshoe-shaped area where
several tectonic plates rub against each other, creating intense volcanic activity and earthquakes. Three
quarters of the world’s active volcanoes can be found on the Ring of Fire.
53. What is the current repo rate in the second bi-monthly monetary policy review of RBI for
FY19?
[A] 6.25%
[B] 6.50%
[C] 6.00%
[D] 6.75%
Correct Answer: A [6.25%]
Notes:
On June 6, the 6-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) hiked the
key policy repo rate by 25 basis points to 6.25% in its second bi-monthly monetary policy review of FY19.
Concurrently, the reverse repo rate adjusted to 6.0%, and the marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and
the Bank Rate to 6.50%. This is the first time since January 2014 that RBI has announced a rate hike.
Since then, RBI has either reduced the rate or maintained status quo. Repo rate is the rate at which RBI
lends to banks generally against government securities while the reverse repo is the rate at which RBI
borrows money from the banks. In its monetary policy statement, RBI revised CPI inflation projections
for the first half (H1)of FY19 to 4.8-4.9%, and 4.7% in the second half (H2). RBI retained its Gross Domestic
Product (GDP) growth projection for the financial year at 7.4%.
54. Which city hosted the National Consultation on Accelerating Implementation of Tobacco
Control Measures for achievement of Goals under National Health Policy 2017?
[A] Gorakhpur
[B] New Delhi
[C] Jhabua
[D] Udaipur
Correct Answer: B [New Delhi]
Notes:
The National Consultation on Accelerating Implementation of Tobacco Control Measures for
achievement of Goals under National Health Policy (2017) has inaugurated by Minister of State for
Health Ashwini Kumar Choubey in New Delhi on June 6, 2018. The Ministers of State also released the
Global Adult Tobacco Survey 2 India Report, 2016-17 and guidelines for establishing tobacco cessation
centres in dental colleges at the consultation and felicitated tobacco workers who have transitioned to
other livelihood options. The two-day consultation will focus on capacity-building of the National
Tobacco Control Progamme Nodal Officers. Among the key areas of deliberation will be multi-sectoral
engagement for implementation of WHO FCTC in India and synergizing tobacco control with new
health initiatives. Tobacco is responsible for 4.5 lakh Cardio Vascular Diseases (CVD) deaths in the
country. In 2011, the total economic cost attributable to tobacco use from all diseases in India for persons
aged 35-69 years amounted to a staggering Rs. 1,04,500 crores.
55. The Union government has recently given final clearance to Kaleswaram Lift Irrigation Project
(KLIP). The project will built across which river?
[A] Godavari River
[B] Kaveri River
[C] Narmada River
[D] Krishna River
Correct Answer: A [Godavari River]
Notes:
On June 6, the Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation Project (KLIP) in Telangana has received the approval of
Technical Advisory Committee of the Union government in a meeting held in the Central Water

Commission (CWC) in Delhi. The Kaleshwaram project, which is the biggest lift irrigation project in the
country, has provision for the storage of about 148 tmc ft with plans of utilising 180 tmc ft by lifting at
least 2 tmc ft water every day for 90 flood days. The project is designed to irrigate 7,38,851 hectares (over
18.47 lakh acres) uplands in the erstwhile districts of Karimnagar, Nizamabad, Warangal, Medak,
Nalgonda and Ranga Reddy. The expected cost of project is Rs 80,000 crore. One of the unique features
of the project is the longest tunnel in Asia of 81 kms between Yellampally and Mallannasagar dams. To
lift the water the project will utilise 139MW pump, the highest capacity pump to be deployed in any
project in the country. The Kaleswaram project across the Godavari river is often described as a boon to
the state.
56. Who will be honoured with the IIFA Lifetime Achievement award at the 19th edition of
International Indian Film Academy (IIFA-2018)?
[A] Dharmendra
[B] Shatrughan Sinha
[C] Anupam Kher
[D] Jeetendra
Correct Answer: C [Anupam Kher]
Notes:
Veteran film actor Anupam Kher will be given the prestigious Lifetime Achievement honour at the 19th
edition of International Indian Film Academy (IIFA) awards ceremony in Bangkok on June 24, 2018. He
will be honoured for his contribution in the field of cinema. Kher has worked in over 500 films spanning
across languages along with projects both in India and abroad for over three decades.
57. Narayan Prasad Singh, who passed away recently, was the renowned lyricist of which state?
[A] Jharkhand
[B] Bihar
[C] West Bengal
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: D [Odisha]
Notes:
Narayan Prasad Singh, the most popular lyricist of Odisha, has passed away in Bhubaneswar on June 6,
2018. He was popularly known as Rasaraj. Born on May 28, 1933 at Koeli village, Singh earned his name in
the world of Odia music. He was the lyricist of several popular melodious songs in Odia cinema. He made
his debut by writing songs for Akashvani and came to be known as Rasaraj in Odia film industry for
penning more than a hundred of songs that touched the heart of both the urban and rural population.
Some of his songs are all time hits and his philosophical and contemporary songs had a great impact on
youths. Some of his soulful and melodious songs in Odia cinema are ‘Jeevan Jamuna re Juara uthere’,
‘Ratani gaja gamani’, ‘Ae ta kali kaal reeti biparita bhai re’.
58. Which country hosted the 11th edition of Geo Intelligence Asia 2018?
[A] Nepal
[B] Vietnam
[C] Malaysia
[D] India
Correct Answer: D [India ]
Notes:
India hosted the 11th edition of Geo-Intelligence Asia 2018 at Manekshaw Centre in New Delhi on 04-05
June 2018. It was organised by GeoSpatial Media and Communication with Directorate General of
Information System as Knowledge Partners and Military Survey as Co-organisers. The theme of Seminar
was ‘GeoSpatial : A Force Multiplier for Defense and Internal Security’. The aim of the event is to provide
a platform to showcase the innovative applications of the Geospatial technologies. The seminar brought
together the military, security officials including BSF and Police Forces, Government and industry
together to examine the latest technology solutions and on the critical role of geospatial technology in
military and security applications.
59. The Mitti Dam is located in which state?

[A] Madhya Pradesh

[B] Rajasthan
[C] Gujarat
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Gujarat]
Notes:
The Mitti Dam is a concrete and earthen dam built on the Mitti River in Abdasa Taluka of Kutch District,
Gujarat. The Mitti River is an intermittent stream and provides a catchment area of 468.78 sq kms for
the reservoir. The dam is 4405 m long and has 17.40 million cubic metres (MCM) of gross storage, 2.68
MCM of dead storage, and 14.72 MCM of live storage capacity.
60. Which state will become the first Indian state to use auto-disable syringes for all clinical
purposes to prevent infection?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Karnataka
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: A [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
Andhra Pradesh will become the first Indian state to use auto-disable syringes for all clinical purposes to
prevent infection. The move will be enforced from the World Hepatitis Day (WHD-2018) when the state
government will declare itself as “Safety Injection Use State”. The initiative will ensure one injection will
be given from one syringe by mandating universal usage of auto-disable syringes in all
clinical/therapeutic cases as part of infection prevention. The move would strengthen the healthcare
system by lowering the burden of infections and breaking the cycle of cross infection.
61. Which variety of pineapple has been declared as the state fruit of Tripura?
[A] Jaldhup
[B] Charlotte
[C] Queen
[D] Kew
Correct Answer: C [Queen]
Notes:
President Ram Nath Kovind has recently declared the ‘Queen’ variety of pineapple as the state fruit of
Tripura. The famous ‘Queen’ variety is spiny, golden yellow in color and emits pleasant aroma and flavor
at the ripen stage. The fruits are harvested when eyes turns yellow during mid-May to mid-July when
the fruit is available. The average weight of fruit varies from 600 Grams to 800 Grams. It got the
Geographical Indication (GI) in 2015 and is the best quality of pineapple in the world. Tripura is one of
the largest pineapple growing states in the country and there are more than 100 commercial scale
pineapple plantations in the state. Earlier, President Kovind dedicated a 73.71km stretch of National
Highway 8 from Mata Tripurasundari temple in Udaipur of Gomati district to Sabroom in South
Tripura.
62. Which US celebrity chef (who passed away recently) has authored the book “Kitchen
Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly”?
[A] Wolfgang Puck
[B] Anthony Bourdain
[C] Paula Deen
[D] Mario Batali
Correct Answer: B [Anthony Bourdain]
Notes:
Anthony Bourdain (61), the United States celebrity chef and television personality, has passed away in
Strasbourg, France on June 8, 2018. He was a best-selling food, fiction and nonfiction author. He shot to

fame in 2000 with a best-selling book “Kitchen Confidential: Adventures in the Culinary Underbelly”,
which is known for its treatment of the professional culinary industry. The book alternates between a
confessional narrative and an industry commentary, providing insightful and humorous anecdotes on
the cooking trade. Though best known for his culinary achievements and television presentations, along
with several books on food and cooking and travel adventures, Bourdain’s lesser-known writings include
both fiction and historical nonfiction.
63. Ashish Jakhar has won gold in which sports at the 2018 Asian Junior Athletics Championships
in Japan?
[A] Sprint
[B] Triple jump
[C] Hammer throw
[D] Boxing
Correct Answer: C [Hammer throw]
Notes:
One June 7, India began their campaign at the 2018 Asian Junior Athletics Championships in Gifu, Japan
with a strong start by clinching four medals- – a gold, a silver and two bronze. Ashish Jakhar created a
new National U-20 record to clinch the gold medal with a hammer throw of 76.86 in his second attempt
while Damneet bagged the silver with a best throw of 74.08. This shattered the previous mark of 75.04
meters that he himself had set at the Junior Federation Cup in April 2018. Beside them, Triple jumper
Priyadarshini Suresh and long distance runner Poonam Sonune bagged bronze medals in women’s
events.
64. Who will receive the Polly Umrigar Award for the best international cricketer (2016-17 and
2017-18 seasons) at the BCCI awards?
[A] Virat Kohli
[B] M S Dhoni
[C] Rohit Sharma
[D] Shikhar Dhawan
Correct Answer: A [Virat Kohli]
Notes:
Indian captain Virat Kohli will receive the Polly Umrigar Award for the best international cricketer
(2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons) at the BCCI awards, to be held in Bengaluru on June 15, 2018. Harmanpreet
Kaur and Smriti Mandhana are set to be maiden recipients of the award for best international cricketer
(women) for the 2016-17 and 2017-18 seasons respectively. The BCCI Awards recognizes and honours the
top domestic and international cricketers across all age groups.
65. Sudheesh Guruvayoor has set a Guinness World Record by distributing the largest number of
curry tree saplings in Sharjah. He is native of which Indian state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Odisha
[C] West Bengal
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: D [Kerala]
Notes:
Sudheesh Guruvayoor, an Indian farmer from Kerala, has set a Guinness World Record by distributing
the largest number of curry tree saplings in Sharjah on 5th June 2018. He distributed 4,914 saplings of
the organic curry tree and broke the record set by the Guru Nanak Darbar Gurudwara in Dubai who had
distributed 2,083 saplings of three varieties of trees to students of Delhi Private School in March 2018.
The saplings from his own farm in Sharjah were distributed to the students of two campuses of the
Sharjah Indian High School. He achieved the new feat as part of the World Environment Day (WED-2018)
celebrations in the country. With five Limca Book of Records and other awards in his kitty, Guruvayoor
stated that he had been growing curry tree saplings at his farm for almost three months for this dream
project. Curry leaves are used for the aroma and flavour in the cuisine of various states in India,
especially in the south.

66. Dr. Sapan Kumar Murmu, the renowned doctor of Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical
Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) has passed away. The VIMSAR is located in which state?
[A] Punjab
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Manipur
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: D [Odisha]
Notes:
Dr. Sapan Kumar Murmu (58), the renowned doctor and Superintendent of VIMSAR, has passed away on
June 8, 2018. Dr. Murmu started his career at Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and
Research (VIMSAR) and held various important posts. He was also Head of the Department of
Paediatrics at VIMSAR. The VIMSAR is a premier government-run medical college and hospital of
Odisha. It was established in 1959 in Burla, a small town on the banks of the Mahanadi River in the
Sambalpur district of Western Odisha. It is one of the oldest institutes in Odisha for imparting highly
specialized medical education at both the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
67. Which South African city hosted the Mandela-Gandhi Youth Conference 2018?
[A] Cape Town
[B] Pietermaritzburg
[C] Johannesburg
[D] Pretoria
Correct Answer: B [Pietermaritzburg ]
Notes:
The Mandela-Gandhi Youth Conference was held at Pietermaritzburg in South Africa on June 8, 2018.
The conference was part of a 3-day commemoration of the historic incident 125 years ago when on June
7, 1893, Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, a young lawyer then, was thrown off a train compartment
reserved for whites only. Delegates from a dozen countries in the Conference called for a return to
Gandhian values to address global challenges threatening humanity. Diaspora youth from India,
Ethiopia, Kenya, Nigeria, Tanzania, Zambia Egypt, Malawi, Seychelles and Mozambique joined more than
120 South African youngsters to debate and share views on whether the Gandhian philosophy of
Satyagraha, Ahimsa and Sarvodaya was relevant today and whether it could be used to find solutions for
the problems around the world. A resolution also passed unanimously at the conference which said the
youth of this world, citizens of diverse nationalities, ideologies, backgrounds, colour, creed, race and sex,
embrace the ideals of the Mahatma and Madiba as apostles of peace and truth.
68. Which state government has launched a “Business First Portal”?
[A] Haryana
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Punjab
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: C [Punjab]
Notes:
The Punjab government has launched a “Business First Portal” to give a big push towards the ease of
doing business in the state. It was unveiled by Industry Minister Sunder Sham Arora in Jalandhar on
June 7, 2018. The online portal will facilitate the industrialists for Regulatory Clearances and Fiscal
Approvals, real-time tracking of applications at common platform.
69. Who has become the first Indian cricketer to score 2,000 runs in T20 International Cricket?
[A] Mithali Raj
[B] Virat Kohli
[C] Rohit Sharma
[D] Harmanpreet Kaur
Correct Answer: A [Mithali Raj]

Notes:
Mithali Raj has become the first Indian cricketer to score 2,000 runs in T20 International Cricket. She
achieved the landmark during India’s 7-wicket win over Sri Lanka in the Women’s Asia Cup T20 at Kaula
Lumpur on June 7, 2018. Mithali now has 2,015 runs from 75 matches. She is the seventh woman to reach
2,000 runs in T20 format. The list is headed by England cricketer Charlotte Edwards with 2,605,
followed by Stafanie Taylor (2,582) and Suzie Bates (2,515). Interestingly, India men’s team captain Virat
Kohli with 1,983 runs is the next on the list, followed by Rohit Sharma (1,852) and Suresh Raina (1,499).
70. What is India’s rank in the Global Peace Index 2018?
[A] 138th
[B] 129th
[C] 136th
[D] 128th
Correct Answer: C [136th ]
Notes:
India has been ranked 136th among 163 countries in Global Peace Index 2018 due to a reduction in the
level of violent crime driven by increased law enforcement. The Index is prepared by Sydney-based
international think-tank Institute for Economics and Peace (IEP). The report provides a comprehensive
analysis on the state of world peace. It covers 99.7% of the world’s population and uses 23 qualitative and
quantitative indicators grouped into three key domains — ongoing conflict, safety and security, and
militarization. The index is topped by Iceland, followed by New Zealand, Portugal, Austria and Denmark.
As per the report that ranks 163 independent states and territories, Syria is the least peaceful country
followed by Afghanistan, South Sudan, Iraq and Somalia.
71. Which country hosted the 18th edition of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit
2018?
[A] Russia
[B] Kazakhstan
[C] India
[D] China
Correct Answer: D [China]
Notes:
The 18th edition of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit was held in Qingdao, China on
June 9-10, 2018. The summit concluded with the adoption of the Qingdao declaration. The declaration
calls for implementing the three-year plan to combat terrorism, separatism and extremism. It also calls
for implementation of the treaty on long-term good neighbourliness, friendship and co-operation. All the
heads of SCO countries held a restricted meeting before the summit. Here, China has renewed its
agreement with India on sharing data on the cross-border flow of waters from the Brahmaputra River
during the flood season. Under a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed on June 9, the Chinese
side would provide hydrological data from May 15 to October 15 — the period when the Brahmaputra is
prone to floods. The Chinese side would also provide hydrological data if the water level exceeds a
“mutually agreed” level during the non-flood season. Both the sides also signed an agreement on
exporting non-Basmati rice to China. The two countries also set a trade target of 100 billion dollars by
2020.
72. Which committee has been constituted to examine setting up of ARC for faster resolution of
stressed assets of Public Sector Banks (PSBs)?
[A] P.S. Jayakumar committee
[B] Sunil Mehta committee
[C] Viral Acharya committee
[D] Subhash Garg committee
Correct Answer: B [Sunil Mehta committee ]
Notes:
The Union finance ministry has set up a committee to examine the possibility of setting up an Asset
Reconstruction Company (ARC) or an Asset Management Company (AMC) to fast track resolution of
stressed assets. Punjab National Bank’s non executive chairman Sunil Mehta will head the panel. The
Committee will consider whether such an arrangement will be good for the banking system. If it is
considered advisable, the Committee will also consider the modalities by which such an ARC / AMC
should be set up. It will submit its report in two weeks.
73. Who has won the women’s singles French Open tennis tournament 2018?
[A] Simona Halep
[B] Garbine Muguruza
[C] Angelique Kerber
[D] Serena Williams
Correct Answer: A [Simona Halep]
Notes:
Simona Halep from Romania won her first Grand Slam at the 2018 French Open tennis tournament in
Paris. She defeated Sloane Stephens 3-6, 6-4, 6-1 in a gruelling French Open final on June 9, 2018 to won
the title.
74. Anu Kumar has won gold in which sports at the 2018 Asian Junior Athletics Championships in
Japan?
[A] Boxing
[B] Sprint Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[C] Triple jump

[D] Hammer throw
Correct Answer: B [Sprint]
Notes:
Middle distance runner Anu Kumar from Uttarakhand claimed gold in the men’s 800m at the 2018 Asian
Junior Athletics Championships in Gifu, Japan on June 9. While, Arpandeep Kaur Bajwa grabbed a
bronze in the women’s discus throw. Earlier, Ashish Jakhar created a new National U-20 record to clinch
the gold with a hammer throw of 76.86 and Damneet bagged the silver with a best throw of 74.08. Beside
them, Triple jumper Priyadarshini Suresh and long distance runner Poonam Sonune bagged bronze
medals in women’s events.With this, India’s medals tally goes to 3 gold, one silver and nine bronze
medals in the tournament.
75. Kandaala Subrahmanya Tilak, the noted freedom fighter has passed away. He was elected to
the 1st Lok Sabha from which constituency in 1952?
[A] Nanded
[B] Vizianagaram
[C] Baramati
[D] Kalyan
Correct Answer: B [Vizianagaram]
Notes:
Kandaala Subrahmanya Tilak (98), the noted freedom fighter and member of the first Lok Sabha, has
passed away in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh on June 8, 2018. Tilak, who took part in India’s freedom
struggle including the Salt Satyagraha, was elected to the first Lok Sabha in 1952 from Vizianagaram
constituency from Socialist Party of India.
76. Which country’s women cricket team posted the highest-ever total in One-Day International
(ODI) cricket ?
[A] New Zealand
[B] India
[C] England
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: A [New Zealand]
Notes:
New Zealand women’s cricket team posted the highest-ever total in One-Day International (ODI) cricket

by scoring an incredible 490-4 against Ireland in the first match in Dublin. New Zealand skipper Suzie
Bates top-scored with 151 off 94 balls. The total posted by the ‘White Ferns’ is the highest ever in ODIs
including men’s matches. In men’s cricket, the highest total in ODI is 444-3, made by England against
Pakistan in August 2016 at Nottingham. With their incredible batting, New Zealand women team
bettered their own 21-year old world record of 455 for five against Pakistan at Christchurch in January
1997. It’s only third time that a 400-plus score has been made in women’s ODIs. In men’s ODIs, a 400-
plus score has been achieved 18 times by different teams.
77. Laliteshwar Prasad Shahi, who passed away recently, was associated with which political party
of India?
[A] INC
[B] BJP
[C] NCP
[D] CPI
Correct Answer: A [INC]
Notes:
Laliteshwar Prasad Shahi (98), the senior Congress leader and former Union minister, has passed away
in New Delhi on June 9, 2018. Shahi, who hailed from Bihar, was a freedom fighter and a former CWC
member. He was first elected to the Bihar Legislative Assembly in 1980 and became an MP from
Muzaffarpur in Bihar in 1984.
78. Maria Bueno, who passed away recently, was the legendary sportsperson from which field?
[A] Football
[B] Boxing
[C] Tennis
[D] Hockey
Correct Answer: C [Tennis ]
Notes:
Maria Bueno (78) , the legendary Brazilian tennis player, has passed away in Sao Paulo on June 9, 2018.
She won three Wimbledon and four US championship singles titles. During her 11-year career in the
1950s and 1960s, she won 19 Grand Slam titles (seven in women’s singles, 11 in women’s doubles, and one
in mixed doubles), making her the most successful South American female tennis player in history.
79. What is the theme of 2018 World Oceans Day (WOD)?
[A] Prevent oceans from plastic pollution
[B] Our Oceans, Our Future
[C] Healthy Oceans, Healthy Planet
[D] Preventing plastic pollution and encouraging solutions for a healthy ocean
Correct Answer: D [Preventing plastic pollution and encouraging solutions for a healthy ocean]
Notes:
The World Oceans Day (WOD) is a global day of ocean celebration and collaboration for a better future. It
is observed every year on June 8 to provide an opportunity to take personal and community action to
conserve the ocean and its resources. The 2018 conservation action theme is “Preventing plastic
pollution and encouraging solutions for a healthy ocean”.
80. Who has been appointed as the new chairman of Central Board of Indirect taxes and Customs
(CBIC)?
[A] John Joseph
[B] Vanaja N. Sarna
[C] Mahender Singh
[D] S Ramesh
Correct Answer: D [S Ramesh]
Notes:
S Ramesh has been appointed as the new chairman of Central Board of Indirect taxes and Customs
(CBIC). He will succeed Vanaja N. Sarna on July 1. The CBIC is the apex body for administering the levy
and collection of indirect taxes of the Union of India viz. Central Excise duty, Customs duty and Service
Tax, and for facilitating cross border movement of goods & services. It is a part of the Department of
Revenue under the Ministry of Finance. It deals with the tasks of formulation of policy concerning levy
and collection of Customs & Central Excise duties and Service Tax, prevention of smuggling and
administration of matters relating to Customs, Central Excise, Service Tax and Narcotics to the extent
under CBEC’s purview.
81. Who has been appointed as the acting Chairman of the Union Public Service Commission
(UPSC)?
[A] Arvind Saxena
[B] Sudha Jain
[C] Kirti Kumar
[D] Omi Agrawal
Correct Answer: A [Arvind Saxena]
Notes:
Arvind Saxena, a 1978-batch Indian Postal Service officer, has been appointed as the acting Chairman of
the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). He will succeed Vinay Mittal, who completes his term on
June 19. Saxena will perform the duties Vineet
of the post of UPSC Chairman with effect from June 20 till
further orders or till completion of his tenure on August 7, 2020. Saxena joined the UPSC in May 2015
after he completed his stint in the Aviation Research Centre (ARC). Earlier, he has also worked in the
Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) after he joined it in 1988 and specialised in the study of strategic
developments in neighbouring countries.
82. Pappu Karki, the popular Kumaoni folk singer has passed away. He was native of which state?
[A] Jammu & Kashmir
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: C [Uttarakhand]
Notes:
Pappu Karki, the popular Kumaoni folk singer, has passed away in car accident near Haidakhan in
Nainital district on June 9, 2018. Karki was famous for singing Kumaoni folk. His latest song ‘Chanchari’
was recently uploaded on YouTube and it had already garnered 16,000 views and more than 500
comments. Karki is originally from Thal in Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand.
83. India’s first-ever national police museum will establish in which city?
[A] Chennai
[B] Delhi
[C] Nagpur
[D] Kolkata
Correct Answer: B [Delhi]
Notes:
India will have its first-ever national police museum as the Central government has decided to establish
the unique facility in Lutyens’ Delhi. The museum – depicting the history, art facts, uniforms and gear of
central and state police forces – will come up as an underground facility in the premises of the national
police memorial in Chanakyapuri area of the national capital. As per the records, the items sought to be
put in the first-ever national police museum will include brass insignia, ceremonial and operational head
gears and uniforms, batons, belts, distinctive photographs of dog squads, mounted columns and old
copies of the Indian Police Act. Some other items include women in policing, creation of maiden ‘mahila’
battalions, news clippings of historical significance, the very old and basic police communication and
wireless equipment, flying squads and police medals and decorations. The museum is expected to be
inaugurated on October 21 (Police Commemoration Day).
84. The Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) is in news for appointing Sharad Kumar as new
Vigilance Commissioner. As per which committee’s recommendations, the CVC was set up?
[A] Nittoor Srinivasa Rau commiittee

[B] Tejendra Mohan Bhasin commiittee
[C] K V Chowdary commiittee
[D] K Santhanam commiittee
Correct Answer: D [K Santhanam commiittee]
Notes:
Former NIA chief Sharad Kumar, who is a1979-batch IPS officer of the Haryana cadre, has been
appointed new vigilance commissioner in probity watchdog Central Vigilance Commission (CVC) for a
term of 4 years or till he attains the age of 65. The CVC is headed by a Central Vigilance Commissioner
who is assisted by two Vigilance Commissioners. The current CVC is K. V. Chowdary and Vigilance
Commissioner is Dr. Tejendra Mohan Bhasin. The commission was set up by the Government of India
(GoI) in February 1964 on the recommendations of K. Santhanam Committee on Prevention of
Corruption to advise and guide Central Government agencies in the field of vigilance.
85. Which country will host the 45th G7 summit 2019?
[A] Italy
[B] Germany
[C] France
[D] Canada
Correct Answer: C [France]
Notes:
The 44th edition of G7 summit 2018 was hosted by Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau in Quebec
on June 8–9. This was the 6th time since 1981 that Canada has hosted the meetings. It was the first
summit for Italian Prime Minister Giuseppe Conte. The summit was dubbed the “G6+1” by the French
government and political commentators. This resulted from the United States withdrawing from the
Iran Deal along with the Paris Agreement, rampant American protectionism, and fights with French
President Emmanuel Macron and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. The 45th G7 summit will be
held in 2019 in Biarritz, France. The G7 Summit is an event conducted annually where world leaders
from seven powerful economies of the world viz. US, Canada, UK, France, Germany, Japan and Italy
come together to discuss burning issues happening around the globe.They, by mutual understanding,
also form policies or figure out remedies for the concerned issue.
86. Which country’s women cricket team has clinched the Asia Cup Twenty-20 tournament 2018?
[A] South Korea
[B] Bangladesh
[C] India
[D] Pakistan
Correct Answer: B [Bangladesh ]
Notes:
In Women’s Cricket, Bangladesh team has won the Asia Cup Twenty-20 tournament by defeating India
in the final by 7 wickets at Kuala Lumpur on June 10, 2018. India have won six titles since the
tournament’s inception in 2004, while for Bangladesh, this was their first title.
87. Who has won the men’s singles French Open tennis tournament 2018?
[A] Novak Djokovic
[B] Dominic Thiem
[C] Roger Federer
[D] Rafael Nadal
Correct Answer: D [Rafael Nadal]
Notes:
Rafael Nadal, a Spanish professional tennis player, claimed his 11th French Open title on June 10, 2018. In
the Men’s singles final in Paris, he defeated Austrian Dominic Thiem in straight sets 6-4 6-3 6-2 to win
the title. By winning the French Open, Nadal tied Margaret Court‘s record for singles titles at a Grand
Slam event. Court won 11 Australian Opens, but seven came when it was the Australian Championships,

an amateur event. It was Nadal’s 17th Grand Slam title, just three behind great rival Roger Federer.
88. Which country’s football team has lifted the 2018 Intercontinental Cup football title?
[A] India
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] Kenya
[D] Argentina
Correct Answer: A [India]
Notes:
India’s football national team has lifted the 2018 Intercontinental Cup football title. In the summit clash
in Mumbai, they defeated Kenya by 2-0 on June 10, 2018. Both the goals were netted by skipper Sunil
Chhetri. He gave India the lead in the 8th minute before scoring the second goal in the 29th minute.
Sunil Chhetri has become the joint second highest international goal scorer among active players along
with Argentine superstar Lionel Messi with his 64th strike for the country against Kenya.
89. Shantaram Laxman Naik, who passed away recently, was the former Congress chief of which
state?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Goa Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[C] Bihar
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: B [Goa ]
Notes:
Shantaram Laxman Naik (72), the veteran Goa Congress leader and former Rajya Sabha MP, has passed
away in Margao, Goa on June 9, 2018. Beginning his political career in 1967, Naik joined the Congress as
a party worker. A multiple-time Member of Parliament (MP), Naik was one of the tallest leaders of the
Congress in Goa. Naik was elected to the Lok Sabha from the South Goa constituency in the 1984 general
election. He was instrumental in the passage of the Goa Statehood Bill that consequently granted
statehood to Goa on May 30, 1987. He represented Goa in the Rajya Sabha for two consecutive terms —
2005-2011 and 2011-2017. However, in July 2017, he lost the election to the Upper House of Parliament to
BJP candidate Vinay Tendulkar. In March 2018, Naik resigned as president of the Goa Pradesh Congress
Committee (GPCC) to pave the way for the younger generation to take the reins of the party.
90. The 22nd edition of the trilateral naval exercise “Malabar 2018” has started between India and
which of the following countries?
[A] Russia and Japan
[B] Japan and United States
[C] Nepal and Bangladesh
[D] Vietnam and United States
Correct Answer: B [Japan and United States]
Notes:
The 22nd edition of the trilateral naval exercise “Malabar 2018” has started between India, Japan and
United States from June 6-15. The exercise will feature both ashore and at-sea training off the coast of
Guam in the Philippine Sea. The training will focus on high-end war fighting skill sets, subject matter
expert and professional exchanges, combined carrier strike group operations, maritime patrol and
reconnaissance operations, surface and anti-submarine warfare, medical operations, damage control,
helicopter operations and visit, board, search and seizure operations. India is being represented by the
stealth frigate INS Sahyadri, stealth corvettes INS Kamorta, and the Deepak-class fleet tanker INS
Shakti, IANS reported. Along with these, P-8I Neptune advanced maritime patrol/anti-submarine
warfare aircraft will also participate in the wargame.
91. As per which inter-connectivity project, the Government of India (GoI) has launched 5,000 Wi-
Fi Choupals in villages?
[A] Project Insight
[B] e-Kranti
[C] BharatNet
[D] BHIM
Correct Answer: C [BharatNet]
Notes:
The Government of India (GoI) has launched 5,000 Wi-Fi Choupals in villages and delivery of rail tickets
through Common Service Centres (CSCs). It was inaugurated by Electronics and IT Minister Ravi
Shankar Prasad in New Delhi on June 11, 2018. The move is aimed at transforming rural Internet
connectivity through BharatNet. The WiFi Choupals will enable people in rural areas with an effective
Internet access for their various digital processes. CSC has also tied up with IRCTC for booking of
railway tickets. As per the agreement, all 2.9 lakh CSC will be able to book both reserved and unreserved
train tickets. This will enable people in rural areas/villages to book tickets through CSC rather than
going to the booking centres mainly located in cities. The BharatNet is the Central Government’s rural
broadband connectivity project to connect 2.5 lakh Gram Panchayats (GPs) by Optical Fibre Cable (OFC).
92. Which country to host the first military exercise of the BIMSTEC group focusing on counter-
terrorism?
[A] India
[B] Nepal
[C] Bangladesh Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[D] Thailand
Notes:
India will host the first military exercise of the BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral
Technical and Economic Cooperation) group focusing on counter-terrorism in Pune on September 2018.
As part of this, a conclave of the Army chiefs of all 7 member-states is being planned. The purpose of the
exercise is to promote strategic alignment among the member-states and to share best practices in the
area of counter-terrorism. The theme includes counter-terrorism in semi-urban terrain and cordon and
search, and each side will bring in some 30 soldiers. BIMSTEC was set up in 1997 and includes India,
Bangladesh, Bhutan Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Thailand.
93. Which app has been launched by the Ministry of Railways to expedite & streamline passenger
grievance redressal?
[A] Rail Sathi
[B] Rail Dost
[C] Rail Madad
[D] Rail Neer
Correct Answer: C [Rail Madad]
Notes:
Piyush Goyal, the Union Minister of Railways & Coal, has launched two new mobile apps – ‘Rail Madad’
and ‘Menu on Rails’ – to ease the travelling experience of the commuters. The Rail Madad app is aimed at
expediting & streamlining passenger grievance redressal while the ‘Menu on Rails’ app will allow
passengers to check the list of meals and beverages served on all type of trains and their prices. The Rail
MADAD (Mobile Application for Desired Assistance During travel) app allows passengers to lodge
complaints through mobile app/web platform and enables them to check real-time feedback on the
status of redressal of their complaints. The app for the first time completely digitized the Complaint
management system. It integrates RPGRAMS (Railway Passenger Grievance Redressal and Management
System) developed by Northern Railway (Delhi Division). Rail MADAD also displays various helpline
numbers (e.g., Security, Child helpline etc) and provides direct calling facility for immediate assistance in
one easy step
94. Which state is hosting the 2nd India-US colloquium on Earth Observations and Sciences for
Society and Economy?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Goa
Correct Answer: D [Goa ]
Notes:
The 2nd edition of India-US colloquium on Earth Observations and Sciences for Society and Economy
was inaugurated at the CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO), Dona Paula, Goa on June
11, 2018. The 3-day colloquium is being organised by the Ministry of Earth Sciences, CSIR-NIO and the
US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). This multi-disciplinary event will bring
together 200 delegates from India and the US to address emerging ocean and earth science issues. It will
help both countries to improve ocean and atmosphere observations that contribute to economic well-
being of both nations through better weather, climate, and ocean prediction, as well as fisheries
management.
95. Which technical committee has been constituted by the Union government to look into jobs
data calculation?
[A] K D Jha committee
[B] TCA Anant committee
[C] Kumar Swamy committee
[D] K K Nayak committee
Correct Answer: B [TCA Anant committeeVineet
] Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Notes:
On June 11, the Union government has constituted a technical committee under the chairmanship of
former chief statistician TCA Anant to bring in more transparency in jobs data calculation and
presentation.
96. Which state government will launch awareness programme “Sanskar” against superstition?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] West Bengal
[C] Assam
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: C [Assam]
Notes:
The Assam government will soon launch an awareness programme — ‘Sanskar’– in all development
blocks and panchayats. The move is taken in the wake of incidents triggered by superstition and
ignorance including the lynching of two young artistes in Karbi Anglong district of the state. The Assam
Science Technology and Environment Council (ASTEC) would be the nodal agency and the programme
would involve all deputy commissioners, superintendents of police and all government departments
concerned in a district. Local bodies, womens’ organisations, voluntary organizations, media persons,
leading citizens, academicians, MPs and MLAs from ruling and opposition parties would be stakeholders
of the programme. Social activist Birubala Rabha, who has been tirelessly fighting against witch-
hunting, will also be involved in the programme.
97. The Central Government has launched which Yoga Day Contest to generate awareness
regarding benefits of Yoga at workplace for women?
[A] #YogaFor10to6
[B] #YogaFor9to5
[C] #YogaFor10to5
[D] #YogaFor9to6
Correct Answer: B [#YogaFor9to5]
Notes:
The Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has launched ‘#YogaFor9to5’, a contest focused
on generating awareness regarding benefits of Yoga at Workplace for Women. The contest invites self-
demonstration Videos & Pictures of Yoga Asanas being practiced during office hours. For this contest,
the Ministry proposes to invite entries on easy Yoga Asanas which can calm Women during her work
hours. The deadline for the contest is June 21, 2018. Interested participants can submit their applications
in the form of a self-demonstration video or multiple pictures and mail it to
creativecorner.mwcd@gmail.com. The International Yoga Day (IYD) is celebrated globally in order to

generate awareness about the benefits and life changing effects that Yoga has in our day to day lives.
The Contest aims to imbibe Yoga in our daily lives especially during work. The participants would be
judged on the basis of creativity, originality, composition, technical excellence, simplicity, artistic merit
and visual impact.
98. What is the theme of the 2018 World Day against Child Labour?
[A] End Child labour In supply Chains
[B] Generation Safe & Healthy
[C] In conflicts and disasters, protect children from child labour
[D] No to child labour – YES to quality education!
Correct Answer: B [Generation Safe & Healthy]
Notes:
The World Day against Child Labour is observed every year on June 12 to highlight the plight of child
labourers and what can be done to help them.. The 2018 theme ‘Generation Safe & Healthy’ points a
finger at the hazardous and exploitative working conditions in which millions of children are working
tooth, nail and bone for a living. The day shines a spotlight on the global need to improve the safety and
health of young workers and end child labour.
99. The Dassam Falls is located across which
Vineet Singh tributary of the
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | Subarnarekha River in Jharkhand?
[A] Dulang River
[B] Raru River
[C] Garru River
[D] Kanchi River
Correct Answer: D [Kanchi River]
Notes:
The Dassam Falls is a waterfall located near Taimara village in Bundu police station of Ranchi district of
Jharkhand. It is a natural cascade across the Kanchi River, a tributary of the Subarnarekha River. The
water falls from a height of 44 metres. The sound of water echoes all around the place. The Dassam Falls
is an example of a nick point caused by rejuvenation. Knick point, also called a nick point or simply nick,
represents breaks in slopes in the longitudinal profile of a river caused by rejuvenation. The break in
channel gradient allows water to fall vertically giving rise to a waterfall.
100. India hosted the 10th meeting of Global Alliance to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis
(GAELF-2018). The Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) is spread by which mosquito?
[A] Culex mosquito
[B] Aedes mosquito
[C] Anopheles mosquito
[D] Asian tiger mosquito
Correct Answer: A [Culex mosquito]
Notes:
India hosted the 10th meeting of Global Alliance to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GAELF) in New Delhi
with theme ‘Celebrating progress towards elimination: Voices from the field on overcoming programme
challenges’ on June 13, 2018. On this occasion, the Union Health Minister J P Nadda released the
Accelerated Plan for Elimination of Lymphatic Filariasis (APELF) 2018 for India. GAELF is an alliance of
partners from 72 LF endemic national country programmes that assists WHO’s Global Programme to
Eliminate LF. Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) or commonly known as Elephantiasis is one of the oldest and
most debilitating neglected disease, which is currently endemic in 73 countries of the world, including
India. LF disease is caused mainly by Wuchereria Bancrofti and spread by Culex mosquito. This
mosquito grows in dirty accumulated water. The disease affects the poorest population in society,
particularly those living in areas with poor water, sanitation and hygiene. LF does not kill the affected
people, but may cause permanent disfigurement, reduced productivity and social stigma.
101. Shahzahan Bachchu, the prominent writer and publisher has passed away. He was native of
which country?

[A] Bangladesh
[B] Nepal
[C] Myanmar
[D] Thailand
Correct Answer: A [Bangladesh]
Notes:
Shahzahan Bachchu (60), a prominent Bangladeshi writer and publisher, was shot dead by unidentified
attackers in his ancestral village Kakaldi in Munshiganj district of central Bangladesh on June 12, 2018.
He was an outspoken proponent of secular principles and owner of a publishing house ‘Bishaka
Prokashoni’ that specialized in publishing poetry. He was a former district general secretary of the
Communist Party of Bangladesh. Bangladesh has been hit by a spate of attacks against religious
minorities, bloggers, foreigners, LGBT activists and other intellectuals since 2013. Several bloggers have
also been targeted. In 2015, blogger Niloy Neel, who espoused atheist views, was hacked to death in his
home in Dhaka. Avijit’s publisher Faisal Arefin Dipan was also hacked to death on October 31 the same
year. Militant groups have claimed responsibility for most of the killings.
102. Gavit Murali Kumar clinched a gold in men’s 10,000 metre race at the 2018 Gouden Spike
meeting in The Netherlands. He was native of which state?
[A] Assam Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[B] Gujarat
[C] Haryana
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Gujarat]
Notes:
Gavit Murali Kumar clinched gold in men’s 10,000 metre race at the Gouden Spike meeting in Leiden,
The Netherlands on June 9, 2018. The 21-year-old Kumar, hailing from Gujarat, clocked a personal best of
28 minutes 43.34 seconds. It was the best by an Indian in the ongoing season. It was also the second
fastest time by an Indian ever in the distance race, just short of long-distance coach Surendra Singh’s
national record of 28 minutes 02.89 seconds set at Vigo, Spain in 2008. The Gouden Spike is one of the
top meetings in The Netherlands. Its current European Athletics status is Outdoor Meetings with
National Permit. Meanwhile, Indian athletes continued their preparations by taking part in various
competitions during their training-cum-exposure tour of Europe.
103. Ramchandra Bainda, who passed away recently, was the former BJP MP from which Lok
Sabha constituency of Haryana?
[A] Sonipat
[B] Hisar
[C] Faridabad
[D] Rohtak
Correct Answer: C [Faridabad]
Notes:
Ramchandra Bainda (72), the former BJP MP from Faridabad Lok Sabha constituency, has passed away in
New Delhi on June 12, 2018. Born on February 7, 1946 in village Khabra Kalan of district Hisar, Bainda
was elected from the Faridabad parliamentary constituency for the 11th, 12th as well as the 13th Lok
Sabha between 1996 and 2004.
104. Saweety Boora, who claimed gold at 2018 Umakhanov Memorial Tournament, is associated
with which sports?
[A] Chess
[B] Wrestling
[C] Swimming
[D] Boxing
Correct Answer: D [Boxing]

Notes:
Indian woman boxer Saweety Boora claimed a gold medal in the middleweight category at the
Umakhanov Memorial Tournament in Kaspiysk, Russia on June 12, 2018. She beat home favourite Anna
Anfinogenova in the final to finish on top in the 75 kilogram category. Saweety was the only Indian
among women to make it to the Final. She is also a former world championship silver-medallist.
However, in the men’s draw, Brijesh Yadav (81kg) and Virender Kumar (91kg) lost their respective
summit clashes to end with silver medals. Earlier, World youth champion Shashi Chopra in 57 kg
division, former Commonwealth Games bronze-medallist Pinki Jangra in 51 kgs and Pavitra in 60 kgs
had, lost their semifinal bouts to settle for Bronze medals.
105. Which country to host the 2018 International Conference on Information and
Communication Technology (ICT)?
[A] Brazil
[B] India
[C] Nepal
[D] South Africa
Correct Answer: C [Nepal]
Notes:
The International Conference on Information and Communication
Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | Technology (ICT) will be held in
Kathmandu, Nepal from June 17. The theme of two day conference is “Sustainable Development Goals for
Smart Society ”. The conference is organised by the Federation of Computer Association Nepal (CAN).
According to organisers around 500 delegates, including ICT users, trainers, professionals, experts, and
researchers from Japan, China, Korea, India and Nepal will attend the event. The conference will provide
a common platform to participants to exchange their knowledge and discover new insides. The purpose
of the conference is to bring government and private sector together for developing a plan of action
using sustainable ICT applications. It also seeks to unleash the prospects of SMART Nepal by 2030.
106. The Union government has added which of the following iconic sites in 3rd phase of its
flagship project of Swachh Iconic Places (SIP)?
[A] Raghavendra Swamy Temple of Kurnool
[B] Brahma Sarovar Temple of Kurukshetra
[C] Hazardwari Palace of Murshidabad
[D] All of the above
Correct Answer: D [All of the above]
Notes:
The Union government has added 10 new Iconic sites in 3rd phase of its flagship project of Swachh
Iconic Places (SIP) under Swachh Bharat Mission. The 3rd phase of SIP was launched at Mana village
which is situated close to the Badrinath temple in Uttarakhand. The sites are Raghavendra Swamy
Temple (Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh); Hazardwari Palace (Murshidabad, West Bengal); Brahma Sarovar
Temple (Kurukshetra, Haryana); Vidur Kuti (Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh); Mana village (Chamoli, Uttarakhand);
Nagvasuki Temple (Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh); and Kanvashram (Uttarakhand). Besides Pangong Lake
(Leh-Ladakh, J&K), ImaKeithal/market (Imphal, Manipur) and Sabarimala Temple (Kerala). The project
envisioned by the Prime Minister is being coordinated by Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation
with the support of State governments and local administration.
107. Mulubha Jadeja, who passed away recently, was associated with which sports?
[A] Hockey
[B] Football
[C] Basketball
[D] Cricket
Correct Answer: D [Cricket]
Notes:
Mulubha Jadeja (88), a right-handed batsman, has passed away in Rajkot, Gujarat on June 12, 2018. He
represented Saurashtra and Railways between 1945 and 1964. He played 31 first-class matches, scoring
1,373 runs with an average of 26.92.

108. Which of the following countries to host the 23rd FIFA World Cup 2026?
[A] US, Canada and Mexico
[B] Brazil, Chile and Argentina
[C] Brazil, Mexico and Spain
[D] Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam
Correct Answer: A [US, Canada and Mexico]
Notes:
The 23rd FIFA World Cup 2026 will be hosted by USA, Canada and Mexico. To host the tournament, the
two official bids were submitted to FIFA: a joint bid by Canada, Mexico and the United States, and a bid
by Morocco. On 13th June 2018, the 68th FIFA Congress in Moscow, Canada, Mexico and the United
States won the final vote. The United Bid received 134 votes, Morocco received 65 votes while one
country voted for neither. The tournament will be the first to feature 48 teams, after FIFA approved
expansion from 32 teams.
109. The Ethipothala Falls is located in which state?
[A] Jharkhand
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Karnataka Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: B [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Ethipothala Falls is a famous waterfall formed by the mountain streams which falls from a height of
approximately 70 feet into a lagoon. It is located on the Chandravanka River, a tributary of River
Krishna, in Guntur District of Andhra Pradesh. There is a crocodile breeding center in the pond formed
by the water fall and is managed by the Forest Department of Andhra Pradesh where one can see the
crocodiles from close distance. There are two temples at the foot of the waterfall, dedicated to
Ranganadha Swami and Dattatreya Swami. Adjacent to the waterfall, there is a group of caves which are
believed to extend till Srisailam. Ethipothala Waterfall is also a great place for mild trekking and
camping along with refreshing nature sightseeing.
110. The Union Cabinet has recently approved the final extension of tenure of the Commission
constituted to examine the issue of Sub-categorization within OBCs in the Central List. The
Commission is headed by whom?
[A] G. Rohini
[B] J.K. Bajaj
[C] L K Khurana
[D] Jai Mal Singh
Correct Answer: A [G. Rohini]
Notes:
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has recently approved the final
extension of tenure of the Commission constituted to examine the issue of Sub-categorization within
Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in the Central List. Earlier, it was mandated to present the report to the
President upto 20th June 2018. Now, it is extended till 31st July, 2018. As per Article 340 of the
Constitution, President Ram Nath Kovind appointed a Commission on 2nd October 2017. Justice (Retd.)
G. Rohini is the head of the commission. The commission will work out the mechanism, criteria, norms
and parameters in a scientific approach for sub-categorisation within such OBCs. It will also take up the
exercise of identifying the respective castes or communities or sub-castes or synonyms in the Central
List of Other Backward Classes and classifying them into their respective sub-categories.
111. The Union Cabinet has approved the nomination of which Union ministry as the ex-officio
Chairman of North Eastern Council (NEC)?
[A] Ministry of Home
[B] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[C] Ministry of Defence
[D] Ministry of Law and Justice

Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Home]
Notes:
The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the nomination of the
Union Home Minister as the ex-officio chairman of the North Eastern Council (NEC). The NEC is a
statutory body with Governors and Chief Ministers of all the eight North Eastern States as its Member.
The Cabinet also approved that Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of DoNER would serve
as Vice Chairman of the Council. As per new arrangement, NEC will provide a forum for discussing
inter-state matters more comprehensively and also consider common approaches to be taken in future.
NEC can now also perform the tasks undertaken by the various Zonal Councils to discuss such inter-
State issues as drug trafficking, smuggling of arms and ammunition, boundary disputes etc. This re-
positioning of NEC will help it to become a more effective body for the North Eastern Region.
112. Which Indian personality has been honoured with Japan’s prestigious Nikkei Asia Prize under
‘Culture and Community’ category?
[A] Narayan Murthy
[B] Ravi Shankar Prasad
[C] Narendra Modi
[D] Bindeshwar Pathak Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: D [Bindeshwar Pathak]

Notes:
Dr. Bindeshwar Pathak, the noted social reformer and founder of Sulabh International, has been
honoured with Japan’s prestigious Nikkei Asia Prize for his significant work in tackling poor hygiene
and discrimination. The award was given under ‘Culture and Community’ category at the 23rd Nikkei
Asia Prize in Tokyo on June 13, 2018. He received the award for the invention of two-pit pour-flush
ecological compost toilets that help provide low-cost environment friendly toilets to millions in the
developing world. The other two winners of the award are Ma Jun (Economic and Business Innovation),
a Chinese environmentalist — for using the power of the internet to promote cleaner industry, and
Professor Nguyen Thanh Liem (Science and Technology), a Vietnamese doctor — for bringing cutting-
edge medicine for children. Launched in 1996, the award honours people in Asia who have made
significant contributions in one of the three areas: regional growth; science, technology and innovation;
and culture and community.
113. Who has assumed charge as new Secretary in Ministry of Coal?
[A] Susheel Kumar
[B] Inder Jit Singh
[C] Anil G Mukhim
[D] Krishna K Murti
Correct Answer: B [Inder Jit Singh]
Notes:
Dr Inder Jit Singh, a 1985 batch IAS officer of Kerala Cadre, has been appointed the coal secretary in New
Delhi. He succeeded Susheel Kumar. Prior to his appointment as Coal Secretary, he, was posted as
Secretary (Coordination) in Cabinet Secretariat. Dr Singh is a Ph.D in Economics from Punjab University.
114. Which state government has initiated a ‘water literacy’ campaign to create awareness about
the importance of water conservation in the State?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Kerala
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: C [Kerala ]
Notes:
The Kerala State Literacy Mission Authority has initiated a ‘water literacy’ campaign with the
involvement of 70,000 students aiming to create awareness about the importance of water conservation
in the State. As per the campaign, every student will take classes about water conservation for 15
families in their locality. Approx 10 lakh people will be benefited from the campaign, which is scheduled
to be held from June 20 to September 20. The purpose of the campaign is to improvising the knowledge
of students as well as people regarding importance of water, prevention of water pollution, water
conservation and laws related to water management.
115. The Arunachal Pradesh government has inked an agreement with which state-based Smart
Village Movement (SVM) for its smart village initiative?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Kerala
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Arunachal Pradesh government has inked an agreement with Andhra Pradesh-based Smart Village
Movement (SVM) to facilitate technology innovations, research and development in selected villages of
the north-eastern state. The man behind the Smart Village Movement, Solomon Darwin, will be the
adviser to the project’s core team. The SVM’s open innovation approach will integrate technology and
indigenous rural practices to generate sustainable revenue for constituents, and hence it will increase
overall standard of living and quality of life. The project will focus on solving “pain-points” or challenges
in rural segments by developing platforms driven by “open innovation” approaches. The project would
offer a digital platform, highlighting the challenges of the villages, which will be accessed by universities
and research institutes across the globe for suggesting solutions. The solutions would be made available
to corporate houses or start-ups, who would then offer a technology to solve the challenges.
116. What is the India’s rank in the Global Environment Performance Index 2018, as per latest
released State of India’s Environment (SoE) 2018 in Figures by Down To Earth magazine?
[A] 165th
[B] 177th
[C] 138th
[D] 126th
Correct Answer: B [177th ]
Notes:
India has been ranked 177th among 180 nations at the 2018 Global Environment Performance Index (EPI)
rankings. As per State of India’s Environment (SoE) 2018 in Figures, India scored 5.75 out of 100 in air
quality. The SoE in Figures is an annual compendium of environmental statistics put together by Down
To Earth magazine, which Centre for Science and Environment (CSE) helps publish. The SoE in Figures
2018 covers diverse subjects ranging from air pollution to environmental crimes & sanitation to energy
security. The 2018 EPI provides a quantitative basis for comparing, analyzing, and understanding
environmental performance for 180 countries. Low scores on the EPI are indicative of the need for
national sustainability efforts on a number of fronts, especially cleaning up air quality, protecting
biodiversity, and reducing GHG emissions. The top five countries in terms of green rankings are
Switzerland, France, Denmark, Malta and Sweden.
117. Who has become the first-ever Indian batsman to score a century in the first session of a Test
match?
[A] Shikhar Dhawan
[B] Murali Vijay
[C] Virat Kohli
[D] K L Rahul
Correct Answer: A [Shikhar Dhawan]
Notes:
On 14th June 2018, Shikhar Dhawan has become the first-ever Indian batsman to score a century in the
first session of a Test match joining the illustrious ranks of Sir Don Bradman, Victor Trumper, Majid
Khan, David Warner. Dhawan hammered 19 fours and 3 sixes as he reached his century in 91 balls on the
opening day of the historic India-Afghanistan test match at Chinnaswamy stadium in Bengaluru. He

became the sixth player in the world to score a century before lunch. In 2017, Australia’s dashing opener
David Warner scored 100 not out before lunch against Pakistan. Other 4 players who achieved this
milestone in the past are Victor Trumper (103 not out before lunch) against England in 1902, Charlie
Macartney (112 not out) against England in 1926, Bradman (105 not out) against England in 1930, Majid
Khan (108 not out) against New Zealand in 1976.
118. Which country has approved a deal to sale of AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to India for
$930 million?
[A] Japan
[B] Australia
[C] United States
[D] Germany
Correct Answer: C [United States]
Notes:
On June 12, the United States government has approved a deal to sell the Indian military six AH-64E
Apache attack helicopters for $930 million. The agreement has been passed to the US Congress for
approval and if no US lawmaker raises an objection, the contract will go ahead. Boeing and Indian
partner Tata have begun to produce Apache fuselages at a plant in India, but the latest approval
concerns a direct sale of finished products from the US manufacturers. In addition to aircraft, the
contract includes night vision sensors, GPS guidance and hundreds of Hellfire anti-armour and Stinger
air-to-air missiles. The lead contractors are US arms, aviations and engineering giants Lockheed Martin,
General Electric and Raytheon.
119. What is the theme of the 2018 World Blood Donor Day (WBDD)?
[A] Thank you for saving my life
[B] Give the gift of life : donate blood
[C] Every blood donor is a hero
[D] Be there for someone else. Give blood. Share life
Correct Answer: D [Be there for someone else. Give blood. Share life]
Notes:
The World Blood Donor Day (WBDD) is observed every year on June 14 across the globe to thank
voluntary, unpaid blood donors for their life-saving gifts of blood. The day also strongly encourages
more people to donate blood so that the donor population does not decline and patients requiring
transfusion have timely access to safe blood. The 2018 theme is ‘Be there for someone else. Give blood.
Share life’.
120. Which city to host the 106th Indian Science Congress (ISC-2019)?
[A] Bhopal
[B] Jaipur
[C] Patna
[D] Jalandhar
Correct Answer: D [Jalandhar]
Notes:
The 106th Indian Science Congress (ISC-2019) will be held at Lovely Professional University (LPU) in
Jalandhar, Punjab from 3rd to 7th January 2019. The theme of the 5-day science congress is ‘Future
India: Science & Technology’. Approx 15,000 delegates, including 300 top scientists and Nobel Laureates
from across world are expected to attend the congress. The science congress will have 18 plenary
sessions, including those of medical, chemical, environmental and other science domains. There will also
be four parallel mega events, including the children’s science conference; women’s science conference;
science communicators’ meet; and, science exhibition. The exhibition will see participation from the
national and international science companies, especially from the US, Australia, Germany and
Switzerland.
121. Which country to host the 23rd European Union Film Festival (EUFF-2018)?
[A] Australia

[B] India
[C] Germany
[D] Switzerland
Correct Answer: B [India]
Notes:
India will host the 23rd European Union Film Festival (EUFF-2018) at the Siri Fort Auditorium in New
Delhi from 18 – 24 June. The festival will improve cultural ties between India and European countries.
Approx 24 latest European movies from 23 European countries will be screened. The festival is
organized by Directorate of Film Festivals (DFF) under Ministry of Information and Broadcasting,
partnering with the delegation of the European Union and embassies of EU Member States.
122. Which state government has signed pact with Quebec province of Canada for economic
cooperation & welfare of tribal communities?
[A] Kerala
[B] Gujarat
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: C [Maharashtra ] Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Notes:
The Maharashtra government has signed pact with Quebec province of Canada to increase economic
cooperation and welfare of the tribal community. The key areas of focus are information technology,
biotechnology, artificial intelligence and welfare of the tribal community. Chief Minister Devendra
Fadnavis, who is on a week-long tour to the US and Canada, signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) to this effect with Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard on June 13, 2018.
123. Shujaat Bukhari, the veteran journalist has passed away. He was editor of Srinagar-based
which newspaper?
[A] Kashmir Observer
[B] Rising Kashmir
[C] Kashmir Times
[D] Greater Kashmir
Correct Answer: B [Rising Kashmir]
Notes:
Shujaat Bukhari (50), the veteran journalist and editor of Srinagar based Rising Kashmir newspaper, was
shot dead by unidentified gunmen outside his office in the Press Enclave area of Srinagar in Jammu &
Kashmir (J&K) on June 14, 2018. Apart from Bukhari, his two personal security officers (PSOs) Hamid
Chaudhary and Mumtaz Awan were also killed outside the newspaper’s office. Bukhari was instrumental
in organising several conferences for peace in the Kashmir Valley. He was also part of the Track II
process with Pakistan.
124. Which Indian-American personality has been named the Chief Finance Officer (CFO) of the
US’ largest automaker, General Motors?
[A] Dhivya Suryadevara
[B] PJP Singh Waraich
[C] K L Jain
[D] Jaishankar Jaiswal
Correct Answer: A [Dhivya Suryadevara]
Notes:
Dhivya Suryadevara, an Indian-American woman, has been named the Chief Finance Officer (CFO) of the
US’ largest automaker, General Motors (GM). With this, she will become the first woman CFO in the auto
industry. Currently, she is the vice president of corporate finance and will succeed Chuck Stevens on 1st
September 2018. She will report to Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mary Barra who has been head of the
automaker since 2014.

125. Who has been posted as the first woman Director General of Police (DGP) of Puducherry?
[A] Geeta Shrivastav
[B] Mrinali Sharma
[C] S Sundari Nanda
[D] Koyal Mehta
Correct Answer: C [S Sundari Nanda]
Notes:
S Sundari Nanda, a 1988 AGMU cadre Indian Police Service officer in the rank of ADGP, has been posted
as the first woman Director General of Police (DGP) of Union Territory of Puducherry. DGP Sunil Kumar
Gautam has been transferred from Puducherry to the Government of the National Capital Territory of
Delhi (NCTD) in place of Ms. Nanda. Kiran Bedi, the first woman IPS officer of the country, is the Lt
Governor of the Union Territory.
126. Anil Kumar clinched gold in the 10m Air Rifle event at the 18th KSS Memorial Shooting
Championship 2018. He is native of which state?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Rajasthan Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: B [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
Anil Kumar from Madhya Pradesh has clinched the gold in the 10m Air Rifle event at the 18th KSS
Memorial Shooting Championship 2018 in the Dr Karni Singh Shooting Range in Delhi on June 14, 2018.
Anil scored 246.7 to finish on top while Air Force’s Manoj Dalal scored 245.2 to take silver and his
teammate Deepak Kumar finished with bronze with a score of 224.6. In the 10M Air Rifle Youth Men
category, Sahu Mane of Maharashtra clinched gold with a 251.1 score, while Aishwarya Tomar of Madhya
Pradesh scored 249.9 to clinch silver. Rajasthan’s Yashwardan settled for bronze with a 229.9.
127. Which state has topped the Composite Water Management Index (CWMI) of Niti Aayog?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Gujarat
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Jharkhand
Correct Answer: B [Gujarat ]
Notes:
On June 14, the Minister for Water Resources Nitin Gadkari released Niti Aayog’s composite water
management index report in New Delhi. Gujarat topped the list while Jharkhand was adjudged as the
worst performer. Gujarat is followed by Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra.
In the northeastern and Himalayan states, Tripura has been adjudged as the top state in 2016-17
followed by Himachal Pradesh, Sikkim and Assam. Niti Aayog has ranked the states through first of its
kind index on the composite water management, comprising 9 broad sectors with 28 different
indicators covering various aspects. The report predicted that by 2030, the country’s water demand is
projected to be twice the available supply, implying severe water scarcity for hundreds of millions of
people.
128. The Kodiveri Dam is located on which tributary of Kaveri River in Tamil Nadu?
[A] Bhavani river
[B] Kabini river
[C] Amaravati river
[D] Lakshmana river
Correct Answer: A [Bhavani river]
Notes:
The Kodiveri Dam is located on the Bhavani river near Gobichettipalayam in Tamil Nadu. The dam

irrigates an area of 24,504 acres. The Bhavani river is the second longest river in Tamil Nadu and a
major tributary of the Kaveri River.
129. The National Institute of Yoga (NIY) is located in which city?
[A] Kolkata
[B] Udaipur
[C] New Delhi
[D] Kanpur
Notes:
The National Institute of Yoga is an autonomous and non profit making institute, which is established by
the Department of AYUSH under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The institute is also known
as the Morarji Desai National Institute of Yoga (MDNIY). It acts as the nodal agency for the development
and promotion of yoga culture across the country. Its headquarters is located in New Delhi.
130. What is the India’s growth forecast for FY19, as per latest Fitch Ratings report “Global
Economic Outlook”?
[A] 7.5%
[B] 7.3% Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[C] 7.4%
[D] 7.6%
Correct Answer: C [7.4%]
Notes:
As per latest report “Global Economic Outlook”, Fitch Ratings has raised India’s growth forecast for
2018-19 to 7.4% from 7.3%, but cited higher financing costs and rising oil prices as risks to growth. It also
said that the rupee has been among the worst performers vis-a-vis Asian currencies this year. For FY20,
it estimated the country to grow at 7.5%. However, higher financing costs (stemming from monetary
tightening and higher market premiums) and rising oil prices should limit the upside to growth.
131. Who will become the first Indian cricketer to appear in Kia Super League in England?
[A] Smriti Mandhana
[B] Harmanpreet Kaur
[C] Mithali Raj
[D] Jhulan Goswami
Correct Answer: A [Smriti Mandhana]
Notes:
Smriti Mandhana, an Indian Women’s Cricket team opener, will become the first Indian player to appear
in the Kia Super League, the women’s cricket super league in England. The League will begin from July
22, 2018. Smriti was signed by Western Storm and will represent the side in the upcoming edition of the
tournament that features six teams. She has appeared in 40 T20Is so far and has a highest score of 76. In
May 2018, she captained IPL Trailblazers in the Women’s T20 Challenge, which took place ahead of IPL
Qualifier one. Smriti has also featured in the Big Bash League for Brisbane Heat.
132. Which country has successfully launched a Glonass- M positioning satellite by using a
Soyuz-2.1b carrier rocket?
[A] United States
[B] Russia
[C] China
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: B [Russia ]
Notes:
Russia has successfully launched a Glonass- M positioning satellite by using a Soyuz-2.1b carrier rocket
from the Plesetsk space center on June 17, 2018. The Glonass network provides real-time positioning
data for surface, sea and airborne objects around the globe, at an accuracy reportedly at par with the U.S.
Global Positioning System.

133. The conference on implementation of National Pension System (NPS) by the Central
Autonomous Bodies (CABs) was held in which city?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Bhopal
[C] Patna
[D] Kanpur
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi]
Notes:
The conference on implementation of National Pension System (NPS) by the Central Autonomous Bodies
(CABs) was held in New Delhi. It was organized by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority
(PFRDA). The prime objective of the conference was to provide a forum to all the CABs, where the
progress in the implementation of NPS with respect to compliance of timelines in various NPS related
activities could be brought to the fore and a way forward could be provided.
134. Who has been sworn-in as the new Prime Minister of Jordan?
[A] Omar al-Razzaz
[B] Ayman Safadi Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[C] Samir al Mubaydeen

[D] Abdullah al-Mulk
Correct Answer: A [Omar al-Razzaz]
Notes:
Omar al-Razzaz, the former World Bank Economist, has been sworn-in as the new Prime Minister of
Jordan after King Abdullah issued a decree approving the new government. He succeeded Hani al-Mulki,
who resigned following mass protests over price hikes and other government economic policies. Omar,
who studied at Harvard University, was tasked with reviewing the country’s disputed tax system.
135. Who has become the first woman Indian Air Force (IAF) fighter pilot from South India?
[A] Asistha Singh
[B] Bhaanupriya
[C] Bhawana Kanth
[D] Meghana Shanbough
Correct Answer: D [Meghana Shanbough]
Notes:
Flying Officer Meghana Shanbough MR, an engineering graduate, has become the sixth female fighter
pilot to join the ranks of Indian Air Force (IAF). She is the first from Karnataka and South India. She
graduates from the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Dundigal. The other fighter pilots: Avani Chaturvedi
from Madhya Pradesh, Bhawana Kanth from Bihar and Mohana Singh from Rajasthan have already
scripted history by becoming the first-ever women to undergo fighter pilot training in IAF at Hakimpet
Air Force station in Hyderabad.
136. The International Domestic Workers Day (IDWD) is observed on which date?
[A] June 15
[B] June 14
[C] June 17
[D] June 16
Correct Answer: D [June 16]
Notes:
The International Domestic Workers Day (IDWD) is celebrated every year across the world on June 16 to
assert the rights of this vast but hidden workforce. On this day in 2011, IDWD was declared to
commemorate the adoption of International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention C189. C189 set
labour standards for domestic workers such as rest hours, wages, min age, and living arrangements. So
far, 25 countries ratified the convention, recognizing millions of domestic workers and giving them a
voice to advocate for their rights. According to the ILO, there are around 53 million domestic workers
worldwide, 83% of whom are women. In India, 3 out of 5 domestic workers are women.
137. Adiraju Venkateswara Rao, who passed away recently, was associated with which field?
[A] Sports
[B] Journalism
[C] Politics
[D] Film Industry
Correct Answer: B [Journalism ]
Notes:
Adiraju Venkateswara Rao (80), the veteran journalist and author, has passed away in Hyderabad,
Telangana on June 15, 2018. Popularly known as Adiraju, Venkateswara Rao was born in 1938 at
Panditapuram village in Khammam district. In a career spanning over five-and-a-half decades, he
worked for several Telugu and English dailies and news agencies including Andhra Jyothi, Udayam,
Deccan Chronicle, Indian Express, Himachal Times and Hindustan Samachar at Hyderabad and Delhi.
138. The Jawai dam is situated in which district of Rajasthan?
[A] Pali
[B] Chittorgarh Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[C] Ajmer
[D] Kota
Correct Answer: A [Pali ]
Notes:
The Jawai dam is built across the Jawai river, a tributary of Luni river, and is situated near Sumerpur
town in Pali District of Rajasthan. The dam was built by Maharaja Umaid Singh of Jodhpur. This is the
biggest dam in the western Rajasthan. The dam has capacity of 7887.5 million cubic feet and covers an
area of 102,315 acres of cultivable command area. Its height is about 61.25 feet. Sei dam and Kalibor dam
are the feeder dams of the Jawai dam.
139. Who authored the book “The Ivory Throne : Chronicles of the House of Travancore”?
[A] Kamala Das
[B] Manu S Pillai
[C] Devaki Nilayamgode
[D] Shashi Tharoor
Correct Answer: B [Manu S Pillai ]
Notes:
Manu S. Pillai has authored the book ” The Ivory Throne : Chronicles of the House of Travancore” , a
critically acclaimed 700-page history of Kerala focused on the last woman Maharajah of Travancore. It
won him the Sahitya Akademi Yuva Puraskar in 2017. Pillai’s retelling of this sprawling saga focuses on
the remarkable life and work of Sethu Lakshmi Bayi, the last – and forgotten – queen of the House of
Travancore. The Ivory Throne conjures up a dramatic world of political intrigues and factions, black
magic and conspiracies, crafty ceremonies and splendorous temple treasures, all harnessed in a tragic
contest for power and authority in the age of empire.
140. The Assumption Island is in news recently. It is located in which country?
[A] Seychelles
[B] South Africa
[C] Zimbabwe
[D] Botswana
Correct Answer: A [Seychelles]
Notes:
The Assumption Island is a small island in the Outer Islands of Seychelles north of Madagascar, with a
distance of 1,135 km southwest of the capital, Victoria, on Mahé Island. It is in news recently because the
deal for an Indian military base in the Island was declared as ‘dead’ by Seychelles President Danny Faure.

He said that Seychelles would develop military facilities at the island on its own. Mr. Faure made it clear
that he would have no further discussions on the subject with Prime Minister Narendra Modi when he
visited India on June 25 and 26, 2018. The plans for an Indian military base in Seychelles stirred up
public protests by activists who believe that the islands must stay away from the brewing India-China
regional conflict. The decision by the Seychelles President to drop the deal in the face of protests over a
perceived loss of sovereignty is a blow to the Indian government’s “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All
in the Region) programme, announced by Mr. Modi during a visit to Indian Ocean Rim (IOR) countries in
March 2015.
141. The Union Government has sanctioned a special financial assistance of Rs.5 lakhs to Limba
Ram. He is associated with which sports?
[A] Archery
[B] Sprint
[C] Boxing
[D] Wrestling
Correct Answer: A [Archery]
Notes:
Minister of State (I/C) Youth Affairs and Sports Col Rajyavardhan Rathore has sanctioned a special
financial assistance of Rs.5 lakhs to former International Archer & Arjun Awardee Limba Ram. Limba
Ram, who is suffering from neuro generative disease or neurological illness, is undergoing treatment at
Jaipur. He is working for the State Government of Rajasthan and is in receipt of salary beyond the
ceiling of Rs.4 lakhs fixed under the scheme of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay National Welfare Fund for
Sportspersons. The Minister in his capacity as Chairperson of the Fund, has relaxed the condition and by
invoking the discretionary clause sanctioned Rs.5 Lakhs considering that his widowed mother, widowed
sister and her children, widowed mother-in-law and unemployed brother are dependent on him.
142. Which country is hosting the 2018 Asia and Oceania Region Inter-Governmental Ministerial
meeting on anti-doping?
[A] India
[B] Australia
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Nepal
Correct Answer: C [Sri Lanka]
Notes:
On June 18, the annual Asia and Oceania Region Inter-Governmental Ministerial meeting on anti-doping
has started in Colombo, Sri Lanka with representatives from 29 countries including India. The 15th such
annual gathering is also being attended by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) to discuss important
anti-doping issues that will help in the fight for clean sport. It is chaired by Faiszer Musthapha, Sri
Lanka’s Minister for Provincial Councils, Local Government and Sports. The two-day meeting will
discuss how to make the most of government engagement, ensure compliance with the world anti-
doping code, support capacity building and a range of other topics.
143. What is the theme of the 2018 World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (WDCD)?
[A] Our Land. Our Home. Our Future
[B] Protect Earth. Restore Land
[C] Beauty of Deserts – The Challenge of Desertification
[D] Land has true value – invest in it
Correct Answer: D [Land has true value – invest in it]
Notes:
The World Day to Combat Desertification and Drought (WDCD) is observed every year to promote
public awareness of international efforts to combat desertification. The day is a unique moment to
community involvement and co-operation at all levels. The 2018 WDCD urges you to move away from
unsustainable land use and make a difference by investing in the future of land under the theme “Land
has true value — invest in it”.

144. The SAARC Development Fund (SDF) to launch Social Enterprise Development Programme
(SEDP) in all SAARC member states. Where is the Secretariat of SDF located?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Thimphu
[C] Kathmandu
[D] Colombo
Correct Answer: B [Thimphu ]
Notes:
The SAARC Development Fund (SDF) will soon launch a Social Enterprise Development Programme
(SEDP) to fund approx 80 enterprises across the 8-member states annually. As part of SDF social
window, the SEDP will be implemented in all the SAARC member states (Afghanistan, Bangladesh,
Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka) with an objective of identifying and building
social enterprises by using a mix of grants and concessional returnable capital. The SDF is organising a
two-day SDF partnership conclave in New Delhi from July 2. Niti Aayog CEO Amitabh Kant would
deliver the key note address. SDF, whose Secretariat at Thimphu in Bhutan, was established by the heads
of the 8 SAARC member states in April 2010 and its governing council comprises finance ministers of
these eight countries.
145. The 2018 Goa Revolution Day (GRD)Vineet
has Singhcelebrated on | which date?
[A] June 18
[B] June 17
[C] June 16
[D] June 19
Correct Answer: A [June 18]
Notes:
The Goa Revolution Day (GRD) has celebrated on 18th June 2018 to pay tributes to the martyrs of the
state’s liberation struggle. On this day in 1946, freedom fighter Dr Ram Manohar Lohia gave a clarion
call to the people of the state to unite and fight against the Portuguese colonial regime. The
revolutionary call provided a spark to Goa’s freedom struggle and the state was finally liberated on 19th
December 1961. Goa was ruled by the Portuguese for 451 years, before the State was liberated by the
Indian armed forces in 1961.
146. Which country’s specialist team has started meeting with India to negotiate the text of
military agreement “COMCASA”?
[A] Russia
[B] Japan
[C] United States
[D] Germany
Correct Answer: C [United States]
Notes:
To negotiate the text of Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), the
meeting between the team of specialists from United States and with their counterparts on the Indian
side has started in Delhi from June 18-20, 2018. The meeting is a part of preparations for the 2+2
dialogue between the foreign and defence ministers of India and the US in Washington in July 2018. So
far, India has signed only one of the foundational agreements, called the Logistics Exchange
Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA). The Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement for Geo-spatial
Cooperation (BECA) and COMCASA are the two remaining pacts that were not signed due to severe
criticism from within the government. The COMCASA is a “foundational” military communications
agreement. It essentially provides a legal framework for the transfer of communication security
equipment from the US to India that would facilitate interoperability between Indian and US forces —
and potentially with other militaries that use US-origin systems for secure data links.
147. Who has been elected as the new President of Colombia?
[A] Enrique Gil Botero
[B] Juan Manuel Santos
[C] Ivan Duque Marquez

[D] Gustavo Petro
Correct Answer: C [Ivan Duque Marquez]
Notes:
Ivan Duque Marquez , the Conservative political newcomer, has been elected as the new President of
Colombia and will assume office on August 7, 2018. He won the 2018 presidential election by 54% of the
vote on June 17, 2018. His running mate, Marta Lucía Ramirez, will become first female Vice-President of
the country.
148. The Hasdeo Thermal Power Station (HTPS) is located in which state?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Gujarat
[C] Odisha
[D] Chhattisgarh
Correct Answer: D [Chhattisgarh]
Notes:
The 840MW Hasdeo Thermal Power Station (HTPS) is a coal-fired power station at Korba in
Chhattisgarh. The power station is owned and
Vineet Singh operated by
| vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com | Chhattisgarh State Power Generation
Company, a publicly owned generation utility formed in 2009 following the restructuring of the
Chhattisgarh State Electricity Board.
149. The 23rd European Union Film Festival (EUFF-2018) has started in which city?
[A] Visakhapatnam
[B] Hyderabad
[C] New Delhi
[D] Thrissur
Notes:
Col Rajyavardhan Rathore, the Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting (I&B), has inaugurated
the European Union Film Festival (EUFF) at Siri Fort Auditorium in New Delhi on June 18, 2018. The
purpose of the festival is to improve cultural ties between India and European countries. As per official
release, 24 latest European movies from 23 European countries will be screened during the festival. The
film festival will traverse through eleven cities in the country including, New Delhi, Chennai, Port Blair,
Pune, Puducherry, Kolkata, Jaipur, Visakhapatnam, Thrissur, Hyderabad and Goa till 31st of August. The
festival is being organized by Directorate of Film Festivals under Ministry of I&B, partnering with the
delegation of the European Union and embassies of EU Member States.
150. IRDAI has constituted which committee to review regulations governing the Insurance
Marketing Firms (IMF)?
[A] K G Ramadevi committee
[B] Sourabh Bhanot committee
[C] Siddharth Pradhan committee
[D] Suresh Mathur committee
Correct Answer: D [Suresh Mathur committee ]
Notes:
The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDAI) has set up a 10-member committee to
review norms related to Insurance Marketing Firms (IMF) with an aim to increase insurance penetration
in the country. The committee, headed by Suresh Mathur (ED-IMF, IRDAI), has been asked to revisit the
IRDAI (Registration of Insurance Marketing Firms) Regulations, 2015.The new distribution channel of
IMF was introduced in 2015 by IRDAI, with the objective of increasing insurance penetration through an
area-wise registration approach. Among other things, the panel has also been asked to provide
recommendations for issuing guidelines on the areas on which the regulations are silent. The committee
will submit its recommendations by end-July.
151. Which Indian Armed Force is observing the year 2018 as ‘Year of Disabled Soldiers in Line of
Duty’?
[A] Indian Army
[B] Indian Air Force
[C] Indian Navy
[D] Indian Coast Guard
Correct Answer: A [Indian Army]
Notes:
To honour soldiers who have been disabled in line of duty, the Indian Army is observing the year 2018 as
the “Year of Disabled Soldiers in Line of Duty”. The primary focus is towards alleviating the sufferings of
these soldiers, who have done their duty with utmost dedication to the Nation and have been disabled
for the life. The endeavour this year is to provide a one-time financial assistance to disabled soldiers who
have been boarded out from service on medical grounds and are rendered non-employable due to their
medical or physical conditions. Indian Army plans to create awareness on organizational support
available to soldiers and their dependents with respect to medical, rehabilitation, various beneficiary
schemes of Central and State Governments, vocational opportunities and assistance for their placement.
Army also plans to showcase talent of disabled soldiers by organizing sports and physical activities,
cultural events and their art exhibitions.
152. The Union Water Resources Ministry has teamed up with which technology giant for flood
forecasting?
[A] Facebook
[B] Google
[C] Microsoft
[D] Wipro
Correct Answer: B [Google]
Notes:
With the monsoon under way, the Union Water Resources Ministry has teamed up with Google to
generate flood warnings. If there are signs of an imminent flood, a Google Maps user will be able to see
what regions are likely to see water logging first and if their neighbourhood is under threat. As per
agreement, the CWC and Google will share technical expertise in the fields of artificial intelligence,
machine learning, geospatial mapping and analysis of hydrological observation data to collaborate on (i)
improving flood prediction systems, which will help provide location-targeted, actionable flood
warnings, (ii) high priority research project utilizing Google Earth Engine to help visualize and improve
flood management and (iii) a cultural project to build online exhibitions on the Rivers of India. Currently,
the Central Water Commission (CWC) warns of floods based on the rising water levels in reservoirs and
if these are nearing a dam’s ‘danger marks’.
153. Perumal Murugan, who has authored the novel “Kazhimugam”, is the noted poet of which
language?
[A] Telugu
[B] Malayalam
[C] Tamil
[D] Odia
Correct Answer: C [Tamil]
Notes:
Perumal Murugan, the noted Tamil poet and author, has authored the novel ‘Kazhimugam’, which deals
with effect of modern gadgets on life of middle class. He is known for his controversial novel
‘Madhurobhagan (translated as ‘One Part Woman’)’, which narrates the story of a childless couple ‘Ponna
and Kali’ and the impact of childlessness on them. The book raises several issues about gender,
patriarchy and masculinity – all of which converge in a worldview mandated by narrow social
conventions that describe a childless marriage as incomplete. The controversy erupted in 2014 after
local caste-based and religious Hindu groups objected to the fictional portrayal of traditions at the
Ardhanareeswarar Temple in Tiruchengode. Then, on July 2016, the Madras High Court dismissed the
case under citing Article 19(1)(a) of the Constitution of India, ruled that there was no binding force or
obligation that forced the author to apologize and withdraw the books.

154. Who has won the 118th edition of the US Open Golf Championship 2018?
[A] Brooks Koepka
[B] Patrick Reed
[C] Dustin Johnson
[D] Tommy Fleetwood
Correct Answer: A [Brooks Koepka]
Notes:
US golfer Brooks Koepka has won the 118th edition of the US Open golf championship at the Shinnecock
Hills course in New York on June 17, 2018. Koepka has created history by becoming the first man since
Curtis Strange in 1989 to successfully defend his U.S. Open title.
155. Which state police have launched a mobile-based messenger application “Cop Connect” to
provide real time information to police officers across the State?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Kerala
[D] Telangana
Correct Answer: D [Telangana]

Notes:
The Telangana police have launched a mobile-based messenger application “COP CONNECT’ to provide
real time information to over 60,000 police officers across the State. The app will also support the police
department in improving quality of service delivered to public. The app has been developed based on
police’s internal communication strategy, which will enable the entire workforce to pro-actively engage
and pass real time information in seconds.Unlike WhatsApp groups which are restricted to only 256
participants, in Cop Connect, one can add any number of groups in a single group. Apart from the text,
the internal messaging app will enable to share images, audio, video files and documents. One can also
share their current location in the app. It also has an iMeeting option, which will help in creating and
scheduling department meeting and setting reminders. The app can be used both offline and online and
one can transfer unlimited data.
156. The 2018 World Sustainable Gastronomy Day (WSGD) is observed on which date?
[A] June 15
[B] June 18
[C] June 19
[D] June 16
Correct Answer: B [June 18]
Notes:
The World Sustainable Gastronomy Day (WSGD) is observed every year on June 18 to focus the world’s
attention on the role that sustainable gastronomy can play. The day also reaffirms that all cultures and
civilizations are contributors and crucial enablers of sustainable development. The UN General
Assembly (UNGA) designated 18 June as Sustainable Gastronomy Day by adopting its resolution
A/RES/71/246 on 21 December 2016. The decision acknowledges gastronomy as a cultural expression
related to the natural and cultural diversity of the world.
157. Which country to host the high-level Conference on “International Decade for Action: Water
for Sustainable Development, 2018-2028”?
[A] Tajikistan
[B] Russia
[C] India
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: A [Tajikistan ]
Notes:
The high-level Conference on “International Decade for Action: Water for Sustainable Development,

2018-2028” will be held in Tajikistan from June 20, 2018. The two-day conference is being organized by
the United Nations and Government of Tajikistan to discuss key water-related issues of sustainable
development goals adopted by UN member countries. India will be represented by Nitin Gadkari, the
Union Minister for Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation. In it, Mr. Gadkari will
share the initiatives, solutions and best practices that Government of India (GoI) is taking in the field of
Drinking Water & Sanitation, Water Resource Assessment, Resource Distribution, Management,
Conservation and Harvesting. He will outline key policy initiatives and flagship programs of the
Government of India including rejuvenation of river Ganga.
158. The National Yoga Olympiad has organized by NCERT in New Delhi. Who is the current
director of the organisation?
[A] Prakash Javadekar
[B] Chandrashekar Rao
[C] Hrushikesh Senapaty
[D] Jagdish Chandra Bose
Correct Answer: C [Hrushikesh Senapaty]
Notes:
On June 18, the 2018 National Yoga Olympiad has organized by National Council of Educational
Research and Training (NCERT) at in CIET in New Delhi to create awareness about a scientific and
holistic way of living. Approx 500 students from 26 States and 4 RIEs are participating in the 3-day
Olympiad. The purpose of the Olympiad is to create positive attitude among all human beings and
promote peaceful living in the society. It was inaugurated by Mr. Eric Falt, Director and UNESCO
Representative of the New Delhi Cluster Office for India, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Nepal, the Maldives and
Sri Lanka. The NCERT is an autonomous organisation of the Government of India that was established
on 1st September 1961 as a literary, scientific and charitable Society under the Societies’ Registration Act
(Act XXI of 1860). Dr. Hrushikesh Senapaty is director of the NCERT since September 2015.
159. Which technology giant has recently announced to launch training programme for journalists
in India?
[A] Google
[B] Facebook
[C] Twitter
[D] Infosys
Correct Answer: A [Google ]
Notes:
Technology giant Google has recently announced the launch of a training programme for journalists
with an aim to raise awareness against misinformation and providing new tools to the fourth estate
against fake news. The Google News Initiative India Training Network will provide training to 8,000
journalists in English and six other Indian languages in the next one year. The network will select 200
journalists from cities across India, who will hone their skills in verification and training during five-day
boot camps that will be organised for English and Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, Bengali, Marathi and Kannada.
The focus of the training will be fact-checking, online verification and digital hygiene for journalists,
using a curriculum built by experts.
160. The world’s first International Centre for Humanitarian Forensics has launched in which
country?
[A] India
[B] Russia
[C] United States
[D] South Africa
Notes:
The world’s first International Centre for Humanitarian Forensics was launched at Gandhinagar in
Gujarat on June 20, 2018. It is a joint venture of the Regional delegation of the International Committee
of the Red Cross in India, Bhutan, Nepal and the Maldives and also Gujarat Forensic Science University.

This is a centre of excellence which will use forensics for humanitarian services. The purpose of this
Centre is to provide service to the nation and to the entire world when the need arises. The launch of the
Centre was followed by an International Symposium on Humanitarian Forensics. Over the next two
days, international experts will participate in the symposium and discuss issues in the area of
humanitarian forensics. Speakers from India, Ireland, Germany and Sri Lanka will speak at the
symposium.
161. Who has been crowned Femina Miss India World 2018?
[A] Shreya Rao
[B] Anukreethy Vas
[C] Meenakshi Chaudhary
[D] Neelam Khurrana
Correct Answer: B [Anukreethy Vas]
Notes:
Anukreethy Vas from Tamil Nadu has been crowned fbb Colors Femina Miss India World 2018 at a
function held in Mumbai on June 19, 2018. Anukreethy, who beat 30 contestants to bag the honour, will
now represent India at this year’s Miss World. While Haryana’s Meenakshi Chaudhary was announced
the first runner-up, Shreya Rao Kamavarapu of Andhra Pradesh was adjudged the second runner-up in
the beauty competition. The ceremony was hosted by filmmaker Karan Johar and Bollywood actor
Ayushmann Khurrana. The judges panel Vineet
included 2017 Miss World Manushi Chhillar, cricketers Irfan
Pathan and Lokesh Rahul and actors Malaika Arora, Bobby Deol and Kunal Kapoor.
162. The RBI has tightened norms for LRS by making quoting of Permanent Account Number
(PAN) mandatory even for transactions below $25,000. What does ‘LRS’ stands for?
[A] Liability Remittance Scheme
[B] Liaison Remittance Scheme
[C] Liberal Remittance Scheme
[D] Liberalised Remittance Scheme
Correct Answer: D [Liberalised Remittance Scheme]
Notes:
On June 19, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has tightened norms for Liberalised Remittance Scheme
(LRS) by making quoting of the Permanent Account Number (PAN) mandatory even for transactions
below $25,000. Under the LRS, all resident individuals, including minors, are allowed to freely remit up
to 2,50,000 US dollar per financial year for any permissible current or capital account transaction or a
combination of both. Earlier, a system for daily reporting of individual transactions under the LRS by
banks was been put in place. This system enables the banks to view the remittances already sent by an
individual during the financial year, thus improving monitoring and ensuring compliance with the LRS
limits.
163. Which G7 country has recently legalised recreational use of marijuana nationwide?
[A] France
[B] Germany
[C] Canada
[D] United Kingdom
Correct Answer: C [Canada]
Notes:
The Parliament of Canada has passed a landmark law that legalizes the recreational use of marijuana
nationwide. The Cannabis Act (or Bill C-45) passed its final hurdle on June 20 in a 52-29 vote in the
Senate. The bill controls and regulates how the drug can be grown, distributed and sold. Canadians will
be able to buy and consume the drug legally as early as September 2018. The new law allows adults to
possess up to 30 grams of dried cannabis in public, but the minimum legal age to buy and consume the
drug has been set federally at 18. It makes Canada the first G7 country to legalise the drug’s recreational
use and the second to have a nationwide, legal marijuana market, after Uruguay. The Group of Seven
(G7) is a group consisting of Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United
States. Marijuana is a psychoactive drug from the Cannabis plant intended for medical or recreational
use.

164. Which renowned personality has been appointed as the Brand Ambassador of the Sikkim
government?
[A] Akshay Kumar
[B] Sachin Tendulkar
[C] Virat Kohli
[D] A R Rahman
Correct Answer: D [A R Rahman]
Notes:
A R Rahman, the renowned music composer, has been appointed as the Brand Ambassador of the Sikkim
government. He will promote and project the state’s achievements nationally and globally. Sikkim, with
its natural and pristine beauty, has over the last two decades emerged as a world famous eco-tourism
destination, besides attaining a distinct identity as the first fully organic farming state of the country.
Earlier, in 2018, the state government made Rahman its Brand Ambassador of tourism and business.
165. The conference “National Consultation on Making Agriculture Sustainable and Profitable’ will
be held in which city?
[A] Pune
[B] New Delhi Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Mysore
Correct Answer: A [Pune]
Notes:
The conference “National Consultation on Making Agriculture Sustainable and Profitable’ will be
inaugurated by Vice President Venkaiah Naidu in Pune, Maharashtra on June 21, 2018. The 2-day
conference is being organised by the Indian Institute of Public Administration (IIPA) in the context of the
ongoing debate and efforts at various levels to double farmers’ incomes by 2022. Naidu, as Vice-
President is chairman of the IIPA institute. Agriculture experts and agri-economists at the conference
will deliberate upon creating an enabling policy framework, agricultural trade policy, transfer of
technology from labs to land and agricultural credit and insurance. The conference on farm sector issues
is the second in the Swarajya to Surajya’ series of national consultations initiated by the IIPA on the
behest of vice president. Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister for Agriculture
Radha Mohan Singh, agriculture scientist M S Swaminathan, economist Ashok Gulati, farm scientists,
representatives of farmers unions, CII, FICCI and other stakeholders will also attend the event.
166. Nerella Venu Madhav, who passed away recently, was the world-renowned personality in
which field?
[A] Photography
[B] Film Industry
[C] Sports
[D] Mimicry
Correct Answer: D [Mimicry]
Notes:
Nerella Venu Madhav (85), the world-renowned Mimicry artist, has passed away in Hanmakonda in
Telangana on June 19, 2018. He is often regarded as father of Indian Mimicry and is also hailed as the
pioneer and maestro of mimicry in India. Born in Warangal in 1932, Venu Madhav began his passion –
mimicry at the age of 15 in 1947. He was nominated as MLC by former Prime Minister P.V. Narasimha
Rao in 1971. He rose to international fame after his enthralling performance at United Nations. He was
conferred Kala Prapurna title by the Andhra University in 1978 and was awarded Padma Sri by the
Central Government in 2001. He was instrumental in introduction of a course in mimicry in several
institutions including the Telugu University.
167. The Central Government has constituted a Chief Ministers Subgroup to coordinate policy
approaches for Agriculture and MGNREGS. Which state Chief Minister will be convenor of the
supgroup?

[A] Uttar Pradesh

[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Bihar
Correct Answer: B [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
The Central Government has constituted a Chief Ministers Subgroup to coordinate policy approaches
for Agriculture and the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS).
In it, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh is the convener and Chief Ministers of Andhra Pradesh, Bihar,
Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Sikkim along with Member, NITI Aayog, Ramesh Chand are the
members. The terms of reference of the sub-group include suggesting a wider choice of state specific
interventions both for pre-sowing and post-harvest to further improve the thrust on incomes, water
conservation and waste to wealth. The move comes in the backdrop of the vision of Prime Minister
Narendra Modi towards doubling farmers’ income by 2022. It comes close on the heels of unanimous
decision taken at the 4th meeting of the Governing Council of NITI Aayog on June 17, 2018. The Sub-
Group will submit its report within 3 months from its date of constitution.
168. Which state government has launched 7-Star Gram Panchayat Rainbow scheme to rank
panchayats on the basis of social parameters?
[A] Uttar Pradesh

[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Haryana
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: C [Haryana ]
Notes:
The Haryana Government has launched 7-Star Gram Panchayat Rainbow scheme to give star rankings
to its panchayats on the basis of 7 social parameters. The panchayats will be judged on sex ratio,
education, hygiene, environment preservation, governance and social participation. Under the scheme,
approx 1,120 villages of Haryana has achieved star ranking since its launch in January 2018. The Ambala
district topped the star ranking with 407 stars followed by Gurugram with 199 stars and Karnal with 75
stars. The selected villages will be honoured at an award ceremony to be held in Panchkula, Gurugram
and Rohtak in July 2018. The villages would be rewarded Rs one lakh for achieving each parameter. The
villages having equal or more girl population will be given Rs 50,000 as bonus with their reward money.
Similarly, the villages which adopt Swachhta Mission will be given additional Rs 50,000 as reward.
169. The new digital initiative of HRD Ministry ‘National Digital Library of India (NDLI)’ has
developed by which IIT institute?
[A] IIT Kharagpur
[B] IIT Kanpur
[C] IIT Kolkata
[D] IIT Bombay
Correct Answer: A [IIT Kharagpur]
Notes:
The Union Human Resource Development Minister, Prakash Javadekar launched the new digital
initiative of HRD Ministry ‘National Digital Library of India (NDLI)’on the occasion of National Reading
Day (NRD) in New Delhi on June 19, 2018. It is a project of the Ministry of Human Resource Development
(HRD) under the aegis of National Mission on Education through Information and Communication
Technology (NMEICT). The purpose of NDL is to make digital educational resources available to all
citizens of the country to empower, inspire and encourage learning. The NDLI, which is developed by IIT
Kharagpur, is the single window platform that collects and collates metadata from premier learning
institutions in India and abroad, as well as other relevant sources. It is a digital repository containing
textbooks, articles, videos, audio books, lectures, simulations, fiction and all other kinds of learning
media.
170. Which city has set a Guinness World Record (GWR) for largest number of people performing

yoga at one place at the same time on 2018 International Yoga Day (IYD)?
[A] Kolkata
[B] Mysuru
[C] Kota
[D] New Delhi
Correct Answer: C [Kota]
Notes:
In the 4th edition of International Yoga Day (IYD-2018), the Guinness World Record (GWR) for largest
number of people performing yoga at one place at the same time has been set up in Kota, Rajasthan. At
the State level yoga function in Kota, around one lakh 60 thousand people performed yoga at one place at
a same time on 21st June. Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje and Yoga Guru Baba Ramdev led the people at
RAC Ground, where 30 lakh squre feet area was prepared for performing yoga. The representatives of
Guinness World Record (GWR) handed over the certificate of world record to Chief Minister Vasundhara
Raje and Swami RamDev. In 2017, 55 thousand people of Mysore had set a world record performing yoga
at one place at the same time.
171. Which country has recently withdrawn from the United Nations Human Rights Council
(UNHR)?
[A] Australia Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[B] Mexico
[C] Romania
[D] United States
Correct Answer: D [United States]
Notes:
On June 19, the United States has withdrawn from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC)
and condemned alleged hypocrisy of its members and bias against Israel. The announcement came after
the top UN human rights official criticised Washington for separating migrant children from their
parents who are seeking asylum after crossing into the country from Mexico. It must be noted that
Washington’s withdrawal is the latest US rejection of multilateral engagement after it pulled out of the
Paris climate agreement and the 2015 Iran nuclear deal. It’s not first time that the US has opted to stay
out of the UNHRC. When the Council was established in 2006, the administration of George W. Bush
withheld its membership over similar concerns. The U.S. joined the body only in 2009 under President
Barack Obama. The UNHRC is composed of 47 members — and this is the first time a sitting member
country has voluntarily decided to leave. Though, Libya was suspended in 2011 after a government
crackdown on unarmed protesters.
172. Which state capital has been selected as 100th Smart City under the Smart Cities Mission?
[A] Guwahati
[B] Dispur
[C] Agartala
[D] Shillong
Correct Answer: D [Shillong]
Notes:
Shillong, the capital city of Meghalaya, has been selected as 100th Smart City of India by the Ministry of
Housing and Urban Affairs after evaluating the proposal the proposal submitted by it. With the selection
of Shillong, the total proposed investment in the finally selected 100 cities under the Smart Cities
Mission would be Rs.2,05,018 crores. Till now, 99 smart cities have been selected in four rounds of
competition and with this announcement; selection of 100 cities has been completed under the Smart
Cities Mission. Previously, 20 cities were selected in January 2016, 13 cities in May 2016, 27 cities in
September 2016, 30 cities in June 2017 and nine cities in January this year. The Smart Cities Mission was
launched on June 25, 2015 with the objective of strengthening urban infrastructure through application
of smart solutions and give a decent quality of life to citizens.
173. Under ‘India Smart Cities Award 2018, which Smart City has been selected for ‘City Award’ for
showing great momentum in implementation of projects?

[A] Jabalpur
[B] Visakhapatnam
[C] Surat
[D] Pune
Correct Answer: C [Surat ]
Notes:
Under ‘India Smart Cities Award’ 2018, Surat Smart City has been selected for ‘City Award’ for showing
great momentum in implementation of projects especially in the categories of urban environment,
transport and mobility and sustainable integrated development. Beside this, Bhopal and Ahmedabad
were selected in the ‘Innovative Idea’ category for their transformative approach towards sustainable
integrated development. While 9 smart cities, including NDMC (New Delhi Municipal Council), bagged
‘Project’ awards for innovative and successful projects in 7 categories. Under ‘Social Aspects’ category,
NDMC and Jabalpur (Madhya Pradesh) bagged the award for implementation of ‘Smart Classrooms’
project, while Visakhapatnam was selected for its smart campus project and Pune for ‘lighthouse project’
under which underprivileged youths of the city get a chance to explore possibilities for enhancing their
skills and pursuing a meaningful career.
174. Peter Thomson, who passed away recently, was the legendary player of which sports?
[A] Basketball Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[B] Golf
[C] Tennis
[D] Football
Correct Answer: B [Golf]
Notes:
Peter Thomson (88), one of Australia’s greatest golfers and a five-time Open Championship winner, has
passed away in Melbourne on June 20, 2018. In 1954, he became the first Australian to claim the Open
Championship in Britain. Among numerous accolades, Thomson was made a Commander of the Order of
the British Empire (CBE) in 1979 and an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2001. The World Golf
Hall of Fame called him “the thinking man’s golfer”. Only American Tom Watson in the modern era has
matched the feat.
175. The Yoga Institute in Mumbai has been selected as recipient of the 2018 Prime Minister’s
award for outstanding contribution for promotion and development of yoga. The institute was
established in which year?
[A] 1908
[B] 1918
[C] 1898
[D] 1928
Correct Answer: B [1918]
Notes:
Vishwas Mandalik (from Nasik) and The Yoga Institute (in Mumbai) have been selected as recipients of
the Prime Minister’s award for outstanding contribution for promotion and development of yoga for the
year 2018. The selection was done from among 186 nominations received under different categories. The
winners would be felicitated with a trophy, certificate and a cash award of Rs 25 lakh each. The Yoga
Institute, established in 1918 by Shri Yogendraji, completed its 100 years serving the society. It has
produced more than 50 thousand yoga teachers and has over 500 publications to its credit. While
Vishwas Mandalik acquired in-depth knowledge of authentic Patanjali & Hatha Yoga, Bhagwad Gita and
Upnishad by study and research of ancient scriptures for over last 55 years. In 1978, he set up first
branch of Yoga Vidya Dham, and as of today there are 160 centres in India. He has written 42 books and
developed 300 CDs to cover various training courses.
176. Which state government has launched a smartphone application ‘i-Hariyali’ to increase green
cover across the state?
[A] Punjab
[B] Kerala
[C] Manipur
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: A [Punjab]
Notes:
The Punjab Government has launched a smartphone application ‘i-Hariyali’, which aims to inspire
people to plant more saplings to save the environment from pollution. It will ensure clean, green, healthy
and robust Punjab with the active participation of people. The app would enable the users to order free
plant saplings. The users can book a sapling of their choice, a maximum of 25 per person, from a nearby
government nursery. Once the booking is done, the contact number of the concerned employee of the
nursery or the forest guard will be displayed on the mobile phone of the person. The ‘i-Hariyali’ app,
under ‘Mission Tandarust Punjab’ can be downloaded from the app store for free.
177. Which city hosted the 7th edition of India Minerals and Metals forum 2018?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] New Delhi
[C] Patna
[D] Kochi
Correct Answer: B [New Delhi]
Notes:
The 7th edition of India Minerals and Metals forum was inaugurated in New Delhi on June 21, 2018. The
forum seeks to come up with solutions to leverage in the sector with the changing global scenario. The
deliberations took cognizance on the need to consolidate small players for strengthening of overall
health of the industry. The government officials emphasized on utilizing low grade minerals to reduce
burden on high end minerals. It was expressed that India has been conservative in exploration of deep
seated minerals due to environmental concerns but it needs quick progress and there is a lot of scope for
private sector for carrying out such researches.
178. Which state police is hosting the 19th All India Conference of Directors of Finger Prints
Bureaux 2018?
[A] Punjab Police
[B] Madhya Pradesh Police
[C] Kerala Police
[D] Telangana Police
Correct Answer: D [Telangana Police]
Notes:
The 19th all India Conference of Directors of Finger Prints Bureaux 2018 has been inaugurated by
Hansraj Gangaram Ahir , the Union Minister of State for Home Affairs, in Hyderabad on June 21. It was
hosted by Telangana Police. The purpose of 2-day conference is to discuss and deliberate the challenging
issues faced by fingerprint fraternity. It is a forum to evolve better solutions for the problems faced by
FP experts in the course of their duty. During the conference, participants will deliberate on latest
Automatic Fingerprint Identification Systems (AFIS), usage experience of AFIS in Maharashtra and
Telangana, integration of Finger Prints with CCTNS/ICJS. The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB),
in cooperation with CMC Ltd., Secunderabad, developed the first indigenous AFIS called FACTS. Now
this technology has improved a lot and within seconds it is possible to match the finger prints of more
than a million individuals. Incidentally, the world’s first finger print bureau was established in 1897 at
Calcutta during British period.
179. What is the theme of the 2018 International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in
Conflict ?
[A] The Plight and Rights of Children Born of War
[B] Leave No One Behind: Support Rights of Children
[C] Prevent Sexual Violence Crimes through Justice
[D] End Violence Against Women and Girls
Correct Answer: A [The Plight and Rights of Children Born of War]

Notes:
The International Day for the Elimination of Sexual Violence in Conflict is observed every year on June
19 to raise awareness of the need to put an end to conflict-related sexual violence, to honour the victims
and survivors of sexual violence around the world and to pay tribute to all those who have courageously
devoted their lives to and lost their lives in standing up for the eradication of these crimes. The date was
chosen to commemorate the adoption on June 19, 2008 of UN Security Council resolution 1820 (2008), in
which the 15-nation council condemned sexual violence as a tactic of war and an impediment to peace-
building. The 2018 Theme is “The Plight and Rights of Children Born of War”.
180. What is the theme of the 2018 International Yoga Day (IYD)?
[A] Yoga for Peace
[B] Yoga for Health
[C] Yoga for Harmony and Peace
[D] Yoga for Peaceful Mind
Correct Answer: A [Yoga for Peace]
Notes:
The International Yoga Day (IYD) is celebrated every year on June 21 to raise awareness worldwide of
the many benefits of practicing yoga. Yoga is an ancient physical, mental and spiritual practice that
originated in India. The word ‘yoga’ derives from Sanskrit and means to join or to unite, symbolizing the
union of body and consciousness. Yoga is an ancient Indian practice which is very useful for curing
many diseases and health disorders. The theme for the 2018 celebration, organized by the Permanent
Mission of India to the U.N. is “Yoga for Peace”. In India, the main event of 4th IDY-2018 was held at the
Forest Research Institute in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. The importance of 21st June is that it is the
summer solstice – the longest day of the year in the Northern Hemisphere and shares special
significance in many parts of the world.
181. Which country to host the 3rd annual meeting of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
(AIIB)?
[A] China
[B] India
[C] Brazil
[D] New Zealand
Correct Answer: B [India ]
Notes:
India will host the 3rd annual meeting of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) in Mumbai on
June 25-26, 2018. It will be jointly hosted by the Department of Economic Affairs (DEA) and AIIB. The
theme for 2018 meeting is “Mobilizing Finance for Infrastructure: Innovation and Collaboration” that
will see leaders from varied organizations and levels of government to share ideas and experiences for
creating a sustainable future through sound infrastructure investment. The meeting will witness the
presence of top policy makers, Ministers from AIIB members, participants from partner institutions, the
private sector and civil society organizations.
182. Mushtaq Ahmed Yousufi, the renowned Urdu satirist passed away. He belonged to which
India’s neighboring country?
[A] Afghanistan
[B] Myanmar
[C] Bangladesh
[D] Pakistan
Correct Answer: D [Pakistan ]
Notes:
Mushtaq Ahmed Yousufi (94), the renowned Urdu satirist and humourist of the Indian subcontinent, has
passed away in Karachi, Pakistan on June 20, 2018. He was widely admired in the literary circles for his
unique way of writing and subtle satire. Born in Jaipur (Rajasthan ) in 1923 and educated at the Aligarh
Muslim University (AMU), Yousafi migrated to Pakistan in 1956 and became a career banker. Some of his
most popular works include Chiragh Talay, Khakam-ba-dahan, Zarguzasht, Aab-E-gum and Sham-e-
Shair-e-Yaaraan. In recognition of his contributions to Urdu literature, the Government of Pakistan
conferred upon him two highest literary awards Sitara-i-Imtiaz and Hilal-i-Imtiaz in 1999 and 2002,
respectively. The Hilal-i-Imtiaz is the highest literary honour given by the Pakistan government to
civilians.
183. Which Indian sportsperson has won the Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson Of The Year award
for 2017?
[A] Kidambi Srikanth
[B] Manav Thakkar
[C] Jitu Rai
[D] Shubhankar Sharma
Correct Answer: A [Kidambi Srikanth]
Notes:
Kidambi Srikanth , who is the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games gold-medal winning shuttler, has
been adjudged as the Sports Illustrated’s Sportsperson Of The Year award for 2017 in New Delhi. Beside
this, renowned hockey player Dhanraj Pillay was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Other
winners included the women’s cricket team, which bagged the ‘Team of the Year’ award while the
national football team coach Stephen Constantine clinched the ‘Coach of the Year’ title. Tennis veteran
Leander Paes was awarded ‘Outstanding contribution to Sport’ while I-League side Aizawl FC were
named Editor’s Choice for Excellence (Team) and Commonwealth gold medallist Jitu Rai―Editor’s
Choice for Excellence (Male). Young paddler Manav Thakkar and golfer Shubhankar Sharma were named
‘Young Sportsperson of the Year’ and ‘Gamechanger of the Year’ respectively.
184. Charles Krauthammer, the legendary Pulitzer Prize-winning columnist passed away. He
belonged to which country?
[A] Italy
[B] Germany
[C] Japan
[D] United States
Notes:
Charles Krauthammer (68), the Pulitzer Prize-winning American columnist and political commentator,
has passed away on June 21, 2018. He received acclaim for his writing on foreign policy, among other
matters. He lived his life telling others exactly what he thought. Krauthammer was best known for his
nightly appearance as a panelist on Fox News’ “Special Report with Bret Baier” and as a commentator on
various Fox news shows. He came to be known as the dean of conservative commentators.
185. Under which anti-terror law, the Government of India (GoI) has banned Al Qaeda in Indian
Subcontinent (AQIS) and Islamic State in Khorasan Province (ISKP)?
[A] Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1968
[B] Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1964
[C] Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967
[D] Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1965
Correct Answer: C [Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967]
Notes:
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has banned the Al-Qaeda in Indian Subcontinent (AQIS) and the
Afghanistan-based Islamic State in Khorasan Province (or ISIS Wilayat Khorasan) under the anti-terror
law, Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act of 1967 (UAPA). The outfit, which has now been banned,
considers India and Indian interests as its targets and is engaged in activities of radicalising and
recruiting Indian youth for terror activities. The main purpose of anti-terror law is to make powers
available for dealing with activities directed against the integrity and sovereignty of India. It has strict
penal provisions to deal with banned organisations and their members. There are 39 banned outfits
under UAPA, including the Islamic State, Lashkar-e-Toiba, Jaish-e-Mohammad (JeM) and others.
186. The 2018 Ambubachi Mela has started in which state?
[A] Manipur

[B] Mizoram
[C] Arunachal Pradesh
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: D [Assam]
Notes:
On 22nd June 2018, the annual Ambubachi Mela has started at Nilachall hillock where the Kamakhya
temple is situated in Assam. The temple will remain close from this evening and re-opened for public in
the morning of 26th this month. Over 10 lakh devotees are expected to attend the mela. Temporary
camps have been set up in and around the temple. Special thrust is being given in maintaining
cleanliness. Around three thousand security personnel have been deployed. 80 buses have been pressed
into services by the Assam State Transport Corporation to ferry passengers.
187. Prabhakar Choubey, who passed away recently, was the veteran personality of which field?
[A] Sports
[B] Journalism
[C] Politics
[D] Science
Correct Answer: B [Journalism] Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Notes:
Prabhakar Choubey (83), the veteran journalist and litterateur, has passed away in Raipur, Chhattisgarh
on June 21, 2018.
188. The 2018 World Music Day (WMD) is observed on which date?
[A] June 21
[B] June 22
[C] June 20
[D] June 23
Notes:
The World Music Day (WMD) is observed on June 21 every year across the world to sheds light on the
importance of music. The day is also known as ‘Fete de la Musique’ after a music festival that began in
France in 1982. Several singers enthrall listeners by playing their instruments in public or recreational
areas. On this day, the citizens of a city or country are allowed and urged to play music outside in their
neighborhoods or in public spaces and parks. Free concerts are also organized, where musicians play for
fun and not for payment.
189. Which union ministry has been conferred the SKOCH’s ‘Best performing Social Sector
Ministry’ award?
[A] Ministry of External Affairs
[B] Ministry of Human Resource Development
[C] Ministry of Women and Child Development
[D] Ministry of Health and Family Welfare
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Women and Child Development]
Notes:
The SKOCH Group has conferred the ‘Best performing Social Sector Ministry’ award on the Ministry of
Women and Child Development (WCD) for its significant achievements and initiatives from the last 4
years. Maneka Sanjay Gandhi received the award on behalf of the Ministry in an event held in New Delhi
on June 22, 2018. The excerpts of the achievements of the Ministry are as follows: 6 months maternity
leave, Sexual Harassment at Work Place Act, She-box, One stop centres, Universal Women help line (181)
and 33% reservation in police. The Skoch Group is a think tank dealing with socio-economic issues with a
focus on inclusive growth since 1997. The Skoch Awards are based on the philosophy of spearheading
positive socio-economic changes through recognising persons who have contributed immensely to
salutary transformations in society and governance by displaying exemplary leadership abilities.

190. Which country’s researchers have developed the world’s smallest computer “Michigan Micro
Mote”?
[A] United States
[B] China
[C] Japan
[D] Germany
Correct Answer: A [United States]
Notes:
Researchers at the University of Michigan (UM) in the US have developed the world’s smallest computer
“Michigan Micro Mote”. It measures just 0.3 mm and could help find new ways to monitor and treat
cancer. In addition to the RAM and photovoltaics, the new micro computing device has processors and
wireless transmitters and receivers. Since they are too small to have conventional radio antennae, they
receive and transmit data with visible light. A base station provides light for power and programming,
and it receives the data. Designed as a precision temperature sensor, the computer can report
temperatures in minuscule regions – such as a cluster of cells – with an error of about 0.1 degrees
Celsius. The system is very flexible and could be re-imagined for a variety of purposes. The device can
help in oncology research. The study was presented at the 2018 Symposia on VLSI Technology and
Circuits on June 21.
191. Gautam Kanjilal, who passed away recently, was pioneer in which field?
[A] Hockey
[B] Rock climbing
[C] Judo
[D] Mimicry
Correct Answer: B [Rock climbing]
Notes:
Gautam Kanjilal (68), who was one of the pioneers in rock climbing in India and veteran mountaineer,
has passed away in Kolkata, West Bengal on June 22, 2018. An engineer by profession and a member of
city-based mountaineering club Himalayan Association, Kanjilal began his outward bound activities way
back in 1970 when he attended a rock climbing course at Susunia Hills. Subsequently he underwent
training at the Himalayan Mountaineering Institute in Darjeeling and took part in the expedition to
hitherto unclimbed Sudarshan in 1978. He also acted as an instructor and course commandant in various
rock climbing and adventure courses till a few years back. A keen rock climber, Kanjilal explored quite a
few rock routes in the hills of Bankura and Purulia districts and one of them is named after him (
Kanjimal ) which he pioneered along with three other rock climbers during late 1970s.
192. Which state government has launched Suryashakti Kisan Yojana (SKY) for farmers?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Gujarat
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Gujarat]
Notes:
Gujarat Chief Minister Vijay Rupani has launched the Rs 870-crore pilot project of Suryashakti Kisan
Yojana (SKY) where farmers can generate electricity using solar energy and sell the surplus to the
electric grid. The SKY Yojana is for farmers who are existing consumers of power companies. As per the
new scheme, a farmer signing up for it will have to spend only 5 % amount of the total expenditure for
installing the solar project (including solar panels and inverters). The central and state governments will
bear 60% of share of total cost of the project and 35% share will be repaid by farmers in 7 years period. In
it, farmer can also earn by selling the generated power. Farmers under SKY feeder will get 12 hours
power in daylight without low voltage problem. The SKY Yojana is expected to cover, through solar
power generation, 12,400 farmers in 33 districts through 137 feeders.
193. Kim Jong-pil, who passed away recently, was the former Prime Minister of which country?
[A] Mongolia

[B] Japan
[C] North Korea
[D] South Korea
Correct Answer: D [South Korea ]
Notes:
Kim Jong-pil (92), the founder of South Korea’s spy agency, has passed away in Seoul, South Korea on
June 23, 2018. The spy agency is widely-known as the “perennial No. 2 man” in modern Korean politics.
He also served as prime minister twice from 1971–1975 and from 1998–2000. A retired lieutenant
colonel, Kim was a key member of a 1961 coup that put army, Maj. Gen. Park Chung-hee in power until
his 1979 assassination. After Park seized power, Kim created and headed the Korean Central Intelligence
Agency, a predecessor of the current National Intelligence Service.
194. Which Indian swimmer clinched gold in men’s 50 meter breaststroke event at 2018 Singapore
National Swimming Championships?
[A] Virdhawal Khade
[B] Arvind Mani
[C] M M Sahu
[D] Sandeep Sejwal Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: D [Sandeep Sejwal]

Notes:
Indian swimmer Sandeep Sejwal clinched the gold medal in men’s 50 meter breaststroke event at the
Singapore National Swimming Championships in Singapore on June 23, 2018. Besides, Virdhawal Khade
grabbed a creditable silver medal in the 50 meter freestyle event with a timing of 22.68 seconds.
Meanwhile, Karnataka’s Arvind Mani also found a spot on the podium, grabbing the bronze in the men’s
50m backstroke event. Sandeep broke the Singapore meet record with a timing of 27:59 seconds to win
the gold. He bettered his own time of 27.68 seconds in the semi-final by 0.09 seconds.
195. The 22nd edition of Sindhu Darshan Festival (SDF) has started in which district of Jammu &
Kashmir (J&K)?
[A] Anantnag
[B] Baramulla
[C] Leh
[D] Srinagar
Correct Answer: C [Leh]
Notes:
The 22nd edition of Sindhu Darshan Festival (SDF) has started on the bank of Indus River in Leh district
of Ladakh region, Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) on June 24, 2018. The 3-day annual fest is organised by
Sindhu Darshan Yatra Samiti and Ladakh Phandey Tsogspa (Leh). It will be inaugurated by RSS General
Secretary Bhaiya Ji Joshi. The programme is focused at national integration, communal harmony and
national pride. It will be marked by holy dip in the Indus River, hosting of national flag and cultural
programme of different areas of the country. The festival was started by the former Deputy Prime
Minister L K Advani in 1997. The fest is a celebration of River Sindhu, also known as the Indus. The main
reason behind the celebration of the festival is to endorse the Indus River as an icon of the communal
harmony and unity of India.
196. The 2018 International Widows’ Day (IWD) is observed on which date?
[A] June 23
[B] June 24
[C] June 22
[D] June 21
Notes:
The International Widows’ Day (IWD) is observed every year on June 23 to give special recognition to the
situation of widows of all ages and across regions and cultures. The day is an opportunity for action
towards achieving full rights and recognition for widows – too long invisible, uncounted and ignored.
Empowering widows through access to adequate healthcare, education, decent work, full participation
in decision-making and public life, and lives free of violence and abuse, would give them a chance to
build a secure life after bereavement. Importantly, creating opportunities for widows can also help to
protect their children and avoid the cycle of inter-generational poverty and deprivation.
197. Which state Chief Minister has been conferred with ‘Chief Minister of the Year’ award at the
52nd Skoch Summit 2018?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Assam
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: A [Rajasthan ]
Notes:
Rajasthan Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje has been conferred with the ‘Chief Minister of the Year’
award for her remarkable work in e-governance. The award was given at the 52nd Skoch Summit 2018
held in New Delhi.
198. The Central Government has launched the Mohanpura Irrigation Project in which district of
Madhya Pradesh?
[A] Rajgarh
[B] Bhopal
[C] Indore
[D] Jabalpur
Correct Answer: A [Rajgarh]
Notes:
On June 23, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Mohanpura Irrigation Project in Rajgarh
district in Madhya Pradesh. The Rs 3,866-crore project includes a dam and a canal system. This project
will facilitate irrigation of agricultural land in Rajgarh district. It will also provide drinking water to
villages in the area. It will benefit 727 villages in the state and would irrigate 1.25 lakh hectares of land.
199. B Sujatha Devi, the well-known poetess and environmental activist passed away. She is native
of which state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Kerala
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Kerala ]
Notes:
B Sujatha Devi (72), the well-known poetess, environmental activist and travel writer, has passed away in
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala on June 23, 2018. Sujatha Devi had served as English professor in various
government colleges in the state, including the Maharaja’s college in Kochi. She had won the Kerala
Sahithya Academy award for the best travelogue for her work ‘Kaadinte Thaalam Thedi’. She wrote
poems under the pseudonym Devi. Her poems have been collected under the title ‘Mrnmayi’. Daughter
of freedom fighter Bodheswaran and Prof. Karthyayini Amma, she had played a leading role in the anti-
Silent Valley Project struggle in the late 1970s and was active subsequently too in several environmental
battles in the State and elsewhere.
200. Which movie has won the Best Picture Award at the International Indian Film Academy
(IIFA) awards 2018?
[A] Tumhari Sulu
[B] Hindi Medium
[C] Mom
[D] Newton
Correct Answer: A [Tumhari Sulu]

Notes:
“Tumhari Sulu”, a movie about a housewife who lands a job as a radio jockey, won the Best Picture Award
at the International Indian Film Academy Awards 2018 in Bangkok. Irfan Khan was adjudged the Best
Actor for his role of a father trying to get his child admitted in a posh English medium school in Delhi in
the film “Hindi Medium”. The Best Director trophy was won by Saket Chowdhary for his film “Hindi
Medium”. Sridevi was posthumously awarded the Best Female Actor for “Mom”. Arijit Singh was
announced as the Best Playback Singer (Male) for the song “Hawayein” from “Jab Harry Met Sejal”, while
Meghna Mishra won the Best Playback Singer (Female) Award for the track “Main Kaun Hoon” from
“Secret Superstar”.
201. Which city is hosting the 4th National Review and Consultation on Swachh Iconic Places?
[A] Hyderabad
[B] Kurnool
[C] Allahabad
[D] Murshidabad
Correct Answer: A [Hyderabad ]
Notes:
The 4th National Review and Consultation on
Vineet SinghSwachh Iconic| Places has started in Hyderabad on June
25, 2018 to review the progress relating to maintenance and cleanliness of Iconic Places. The two-day
consultation and review was inaugurated by Akshay Rout, the Director General Special projects under
the Ministry of Drinking Water Supply. Here, the list of historic and heritage monuments and structures
for the third phase of the Swachh Iconic Places initiative announced. It includes the Hazardwari Palace
(Murshidabad, West Bengal), VidurKuti (Bijnor, Uttar Pradesh), Nagvasuki Temple (Allahabad, Uttar
Pradesh), Sabarimala Temple (Kerala), Mana village (Chamoli, Uttarakhand), Sri Raghavendra Swamy
Temple (Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh), etc. The purpose behind Swachh Iconic Places project is to achieve
inter-ministerial efforts and coordination higher level of sanitation at the identified places.
202. Which Indian archer has clinched a gold medal in the women’s recurve event at stage three of
World Cup in Salt Lake City of US?
[A] Laxmirani Majhi
[B] Bombayla Devi Laishram
[C] Atanu Das
[D] Deepika Kumari
Correct Answer: D [Deepika Kumari]
Notes:
In Archery, Deepika Kumari clinched a gold medal in the women’s recurve event at stage three of World
Cup in Salt Lake City of US on June 25, 2018. She defeated Michelle Kroppen of Germany 7-3. With the
win, the four-time World Cup final silver medalist has automatically qualified for the Archery World Cup
Final to be held in Samsun of Turkey later this year. Beside her, Abhishek Verma secured an individual
silver and a mixed team bronze medal in compound events. In the medal standings, India finished fourth
behind US, Colombia and Chinese Taipei with a gold, silver and bronze each in the penultimate stage of
the World Cup. India’s Asian Games-bound archery squad will now head to Berlin to take part in fourth
stage of World Cup from 16th to 22nd of next month.
203. Which country hosted the 2018 anti-doping sports conference ‘Clean Sport=Fair Outcome?’
[A] Germany
[B] India
[C] Argentina
[D] Norway
Correct Answer: D [Norway ]
Notes:
On 25th June 2018, the anti-doping sports conference titled Clean Sport=Fair Outcome?’ was held at
Oslo in Norway to address the issue of doping menace. The conference is a joint initiative of the World
Forum for Ethics in Business (WFEB), Anti-Doping Norway and FairSport to propose a substantial

agenda for action, enabling it to have an impact on the ongoing anti-doping reforms and policy
framework. The conference will not only address various governance issues in sports but also celebrate
role models by announcing the winner of the 2018 Ethics in Sports Award.The Anti-Doping in Sports
conference is a continuation of WFEB’s conference series on Ethics in Sports’. Earlier editions were held
at the FIFA headquarters (2014, 2016) and at the stadium of Germany’s soccer club, Union Berlin (2015).
204. Which village panchayat of Haryana has passed a resolution “No Toilet, No Bride”?
[A] Bishangarh
[B] Nimriwali
[C] Godikan
[D] Ishapur Kheri
Correct Answer: C [Godikan ]
Notes:
Dharampal, the Sarpanch of Godikan village panchayat in Haryana, has passed a ‘No Toilet No Bride’
resolution to ensure the safety and well-being of its womenfolk. The move is aimed at ensuring the
security of their daughters in addition to hygiene. With this move, the Godikan panchayat has become
the first panchayat in the country to marry off girls only to families who have a toilet in their house. The
village apparently was inspired by the super hit Hindi movie starring Akshay Kumar – ‘Toilet-Ek Prem
Katha’. Godikan panchayat has already been declared an Outdoor Defecation Free (ODF) panchayat.
205. Which committee will be constituted by the Union Government to lay down standards for
metro rail systems in the country?
[A] K S Mehta committee
[B] Elattuvalapil Sreedharan committee
[C] Vijay Kapoor committee
[D] Neeraj Pandey committee
Correct Answer: B [Elattuvalapil Sreedharan committee]
Notes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi approved the proposal of setting up of a committee to lay down
standards for metro rail systems in the country. The committee will be headed by E Sreedharan, who is
also known as the ‘Metro Man’. The aim of this move is to cut costs in the construction and operation of
metro rail systems in the country and bring them under the Make in India umbrella. Besides
recommending standardisation norms for various components, the Sreedharan committee will also
suggest ways to indigenize metro components that are currently imported. The standards, once
finalised by the committee, will be mandatory for all metro projects coming up with central assistance.
Elattuvalapil Sreedharan is a retired Indian Engineering Service (IES) officer who has served as the
managing director of Delhi Metro from 1995 to 2012. Currently, metro projects with a total length of
370km are operational in eight cities, including Delhi, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi and Mumbai.
206. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has approved an equity investment of how
much amount in National Investment & Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) of India?
[A] $500 million
[B] $300 million
[C] $200 million
[D] $400 million
Correct Answer: C [$200 million]
Notes:
On June 24, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) has approved a $200 million equity
investment into the National Investment & Infrastructure Fund (NIIF) of India and the first tranche of
$100 million has already been approved by the bank’s Board. The second tranche of $100 million will be
invested by AIIB on call. This was announced by AIIB before its 3rd annual meeting in Mumbai on June
25 and 26. This is the first time that AIIB is holding its meeting in India. The AIIB mega event will see the
participation of 86 member countries. The theme for 2018 meeting is “Mobilizing Finance for
Infrastructure: Innovation and Collaboration” that will see leaders from varied organizations and levels
of government to share ideas and experiences for creating a sustainable future through sound
infrastructure investment.
207. The first edition of naval exercise “Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT)” will be conducted between
India and it’s which neighbouring country?
[A] Sri Lanka
[B] China
[C] Nepal
[D] Bangladesh
Correct Answer: D [Bangladesh ]
Notes:
The naval forces of India and Bangladesh will conduct the joint patrol exercise “Coordinated Patrol
(CORPAT)” in the Bay of Bengal from June 27. The first edition of 3-day naval exercise will be
inaugurated by Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of the naval staff (CNS) of India, who is visiting Bangladesh
from June 24. The purpose of the Lanba’s visit is to consolidate bilateral defence relations between India
and Bangladesh and to explore new avenues for naval cooperation. In the CORPAT exercise, four
maritime patrol aircraft, two from the Bangladesh Navy and two from the Indian navy, and four frigates,
two from the Bangladesh Navy (BNS Abu Bakar and BNS Dhaleswari) and two from the Indian navy (INS
Satpura and INS Kadmatt) will participate.
208. Which state government has launched a new scheme ‘Paani Bachao, Paise Kamao’ to check
depletion of underground water? Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: D [Punjab]
Notes:
The Punjab government has launched a new scheme ‘Paani Bachao, Paise Kamao’ to check depletion of
underground water. Under this scheme, farmers will get monetary benefit for less use of tube well. The
purpose of the scheme was to ensure that farmers use the power with restraint to pump out water from
earth. They said every detail regarding the usage of power and the money transferred into account of
farmer would be given to him on phone. Initially farmers for Bambiwal, Khusropur, Kukar Pind,
Aladinpur and Kot Khurd village of Bambiwal feeder and Malsian, Dabri, Lasuri, Nawajipur, Mullewal
Khaira and Mulewal Gharnian under Nawajipur feeder were entitled for this scheme.
209. The Getalsud Dam is located in which state?
[A] Jharkhand
[B] Kerala
[C] Odisha
[D] Manipur
Correct Answer: A [Jharkhand]
Notes:
The Getalsud Dam is an artificial reservoir situated at Ormanjhi in Ranchi, Jharkhand. It was
constructed across the Subarnarekha River and was opened in 1971. It is a popular picnic spot for the
residents of Ranchi and Ramgarh District. The dam provides a small-scale fishing opportunity to the
local people of Rukka. The main purpose of the dam is to fulfill the drinking water requirements of the
residents of Ranchi. Apart from that, it is also used for industrial purposes and generating electricity.
210. Which country to host the 2018 ICC Women’s World T20 tournament?
[A] England
[B] New Zealand
[C] West Indies
[D] South Africa
Correct Answer: C [West Indies]
Notes:

The 2018 ICC Women’s World T20 championship will be held in the West Indies from November 9 to 24.
This is the first standalone ICC women’s event in the shortest format of the game. India will begin their
campaign against New Zealand on the opening day. The 10-team tournament, featuring three-time
champions Australia and reigning winners England, India, New Zealand, Pakistan, South Africa, Sri
Lanka and defending champions the West Indies, plus two qualifiers, will be played across three venues
in the Caribbean. The finalists of the World T20 Qualifier in the Netherlands from July 7 to 14 will add to
the line-up of the November tournament. The teams participating in the Qualifying event are
Bangladesh, Ireland, the Netherlands, Papua New Guinea, Scotland, Thailand, Uganda and the United
Arab Emirates.
211. Which state is hosting the 58th National Interstate Senior Athletics 2018?
[A] Assam
[B] Kerala
[C] Gujarat
[D] Rajasthan
Correct Answer: A [Assam ]
Notes:
The 58th National Interstate Senior Athletics Championships 2018 has started in Guwahati, Assam on
June 26. The event was inaugurated by Assam Chief Minister Sarbanand Sonowal. Over 800 players are
taking part in the 4-day event. The IndianVineet
athletics team for the upcoming Asian Games 2018 to be held
at Jakarta will be selected from this meet. Competitions will be held in a total of 42 categories, 21 in men
and 21 in women.
212. Who has been crowned as the India’s first Tribal Queen?
[A] Panchami Majhi
[B] Rashmirekha Hansdah
[C] Tulasi Munda
[D] Pallavi Durua
Correct Answer: D [Pallavi Durua]
Notes:
Pallavi Durua, who belongs to Odisha’s Koraput district, has been crowned as the India’s first “Tribal
Queen” at the Adi Rani Kalinga Tribal Queen competition held at Utkal Mandap on June 26, 2018.
Panchami Majhi of Titlagarh and Rashmirekha Hansdah of Mayurbhanj were declared as the first and
second runners-up of the beauty pageant respectively. The trio will now feature in a short movie on
tribal culture, to be produced by a Mumbai-based producer. Besides that, special awards were also given
in seven different categories including tribal attire, photogenic face, best skin, best personality, the best
presentation of ornaments, the best presentation of own culture and best in talent. The jury included a
pool of guests from national and state-level, headed by Padma Shri Tulasi Munda, who is also the
ambassador of the event. The prime objective of the event was to promote tribal art and culture.
213. Which Bollywood personality has been conferred with the French distinction of Knight of the
Order of Arts and Letters?
[A] Deepika Padukone
[B] Kalki Koechlin
[C] Priyanka Chopra
[D] Kareena Kapoor
Correct Answer: B [Kalki Koechlin]
Notes:
Bollywood Actress Kalki Koechlin has been conferred with the French distinction of Knight of the Order
of Arts and Letters (Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Arts et des Lettres) for her contribution in enhancing
Indo-French ties in cinema on June 22, 2018. The award was presented by the Ambassador of France to
India, Alexandre Ziegler. The honour comes in recognition of an actor, who has interpreted striking roles
in the Indian film industry, experimented with various forms of films as well as shown an abiding
commitment to important social issues. Kalki, who has French roots, has done films such as Dev.D,
Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, Shanghai and Yeh Jawaani Hai Deewani.

214. Who has won the 2018 Formula One French Grand Prix tournament 2018?
[A] Valtteri Bottas
[B] Lewis Hamilton
[C] Max Verstappen
[D] Kimi Raikkonen
Correct Answer: B [Lewis Hamilton]
Notes:
Lewis Hamilton, a British racing driver who races in Formula One for Mercedes AMG Petronas, has won
the 2018 Formula One French Grand Prix tournament at the Circuit Paul Ricard in Le Castellet, France
on June 24.
215. The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR) is organising the training
workshop on cybercrime targeting children. Who is the present chairman of NCPCR?
[A] Ram Shankar Katheria
[B] Nand Kumar Sai
[C] R. K. Mathur
[D] Stuti Narain Kacker
Correct Answer: D [Stuti Narain Kacker]

Notes:
The National Commission for Protection of Child Rights (NCPCR), in collaboration with Bureau of Police
Research and Development (BPR&D) and UNESCO, is organising training workshop on cybercrime
targeting children in New Delhi on June 26, 2018. The purpose of a two-day workshop is to provide
professional training to the investigators designated to tackle crime against children. Police
investigators from all states are participating in the workshop. Considering the rising menace of cyber
crimes targeting children, NCPCR has opened-up POCSO e-box earlier to handle children specific
cybercrime viz. cyber bullying, cyber stalking, morphing of images and child pornography. Complaints
can be filed by via the e-box button at the Commission’s website, ncpcr.gov.in or emailing pocsoebox-
ncpcr@gov.in.; or contacting: 9868235077. The NCPCR is a statutory body and it works under the aegis
of Ministry of Women and Child development (WCD). Its present chairman is Stuti Narain Kacker.
216. The UN Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Day is observed on which date?
[A] June 27
[B] June 26
[C] June 25
[D] June 24
Notes:
The UN Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (MSME) Day is observed every year on June 27 to
recognize the importance of MSME in achieving sustainable development goals and in promoting
innovation, creativity and sustainable work for all. On this day, in 2018, the Government of India (GoI)
will organize a National Conclave (Udyam Sangam) to encourage dialogue and partnership among
various stakeholders of the MSME ecosystem and for promoting innovation and knowledge sharing on
MSME related issues.
217. India has extended how much amount of line of credit to Seychelles to allow it to buy defence
equipment from India?
[A] $500 million
[B] $300 million
[C] $100 million
[D] $200 million
Correct Answer: C [$100 million]
Notes:
India has extended a $100 million line of credit to Seychelles to allow it to build its defense capabilities

and purchase weapons from India. The two nations also signed six Memoranda of Understanding (MoU),
including in the area of infrastructure development in Seychelles, cyber security and white-shipping
arrangement that would enable the two countries to exchange data regarding identity and movement of
non-military commercial vessels. As promised by PM Modi during his visit there in 2015, India also
gifted the 2nd Dornier aircraft to Seychelles ahead of its National Day on June 29, 2018. Both the nations
agreed to work together on the Assumption Island project based on each other’s interests. It comes with
a good note for India because the deal for an Indian military base in the Island was recently declared as
‘dead’ by Seychelles President Danny Faure.
218. What is the theme of 2018 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking?
[A] Listen First
[B] Lets Develop
[C] Say No!
[D] Value yourself
Correct Answer: A [Listen First]
Notes:
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed every year on June 26 to
raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs represent to society. The theme for 2018 is:
“Listen First – Listening to children and youth is the first step to help them grow healthy and safe”. It is
an initiative to increase support for prevention of drug use that is based on science and is thus an
effective investment in the well-being of children and youth, their families and their communities. It is
marked to raise awareness against drug abuse and illegal drug trade. According to the UNODC, nearly
200 million people are using illicit drugs such as cocaine, cannabis, hallucinogens, opiates and sedative
hypnotics worldwide.
219. The Tipaimukh Dam is located in which state?
[A] Mizoram
[B] Manipur
[C] Assam
[D] Meghalaya
Correct Answer: B [Manipur]
Notes:
The Tipaimukh Dam is a proposed embankment dam on the river Barak in Manipur, which was first
commissioned in 1983. The purpose of the dam is flood control and hydroelectric power generation. It
has been subject to repeated delays as the project developed, as there has been controversy between
India and Bangladesh over water rights, in addition to questions of environmental effects of the huge
project, as well as the need to relocate Meitei people to make way for a vast reservoir. In 2013, both the
governments announced up to a 2-year delay, to allow Bangladesh to complete additional environmental
studies.
220. Which Indian Naval Ship is participating in the 26th edition of world’s largest multilateral
naval exercise “RIMPAC -2018”?
[A] INS Satpura
[B] INS Sahyadri
[C] INS Vikramaditya
[D] INS Kamorta
Correct Answer: B [INS Sahyadri]
Notes:
The 26th edition of the world’s largest multilateral naval exercise ‘Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC-2018)’ has
started on June 27 off Hawaii in the Western Pacific Ocean. The 2-month long biennial exercise is likely
to be attended by navies of 26 countries including India. Indian Naval Ship Sahyadri has already reached
the Pearl Harbour in Hawaii to participate in the RIMPAC exercise. The Indian Navy in statement said
INS Sahyadri, commanded by Captain Shantanu Jha, is a state-of-the-art indigenously built guided
missile stealth frigate which is a part of the Eastern Fleet under the Eastern Naval Command. India’s
participation in the exercise provides a platform for increased interoperability and development of
common understanding of procedures for maritime security operations.

221. Who has been appointed as a whole-time member of the Securities and Exchange Board of
India (SEBI)?
[A] Anant Barua
[B] Injeti Srinivas
[C] Arun P Sathe
[D] Sanjeev Kaushik
Correct Answer: A [Anant Barua]
Notes:
Anant Barua, who is at present executive director in the market regulator, has been appointed as a
Whole-time Member (WTM) of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI). The post of WTM fell
vacant after S Raman retired. Barua has been appointed to the post for 3 years on the pay as admissible
to additional secretary to the central government or a consolidated salary of Rs 4 lakh per month.
Currently, the SEBI board consists of Ajay Tyagi (Chairman); G Mahalingam and Madhabi Puri Buch
(both Whole-time members); besides Subhash Chandra Garg, Injeti Srinivas, NS Vishwanathan and Arun
P Sathe as part-time members. Besides the Chairman, SEBI can have three Whole-time Members.
222. Who of the following have won the World Food Prize 2018?
[A] B. R. Barwale and Surinder K. Vasal
[B] Robert F. Chandler and John Niederhauser
[C] Lawrence Haddad and David Nabarro
[D] Hans Rudolf Herren and Gurdev Khush
Correct Answer: C [Lawrence Haddad and David Nabarro]
Notes:
The 2018 World Food Prize will be awarded to two men who have dedicated their careers to improving
the availability of nutritious food for pregnant women and children in an effort to reduce the effects of
malnutrition in developing countries. These are Dr. Lawrence Haddad and Dr. David Nabarro. Both will
split the $250,000 award that goes with the prize. The laureates will be recognized at a ceremony in the
Iowa State Capitol Building in Des Moines on Oct 18, 2018. Dr. Haddad is a British economist and food
policy researcher, whereas Dr. Nabarro has worked with the World Health Organization (WHO) and
United Nations (UN) on health and hunger issues.
223. Which union ministry has launched report titled ‘Women in Prisons’?
[A] Ministry of Home Affairs
[B] Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
[C] Ministry of Tribal Affairs
[D] Ministry of Women and Child Development
Correct Answer: D [Ministry of Women and Child Development ]
Notes:
The Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) has launched report titled ‘Women in Prisons’
which aims to build an understanding of the various entitlements of women in prisons, the various
issues faced by them and possible methods for resolution of the same. The report contains a
comprehensive list of 134 recommendations for improving the lives of women under incarceration,
addressing a wide range of issues pertaining to pregnancy and childbirth in prison, mental health, legal
aid, reintegration in society and their care giving responsibilities among others. The report proposes
that bail should be granted to those under-trial women who have spent one-third of their maximum
possible sentence in detention, by making necessary changes in Section 436A of the CrPC which
provides for release after half of the maximum sentence has been served.
224. The Government of India (GoI) has recently banned which drug for domestic use to public
sector from 1st July 2018?
[A] Oxytocin
[B] Prolactin
[C] Phenacetin
[D] Nialamide
Correct Answer: A [Oxytocin]

Notes:
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has restricted the manufacture of Oxytocin formulations for
domestic use to public sector only from 1st July 2018. It has also banned the import of Oxytocin and its
formulations. Only Karnataka Antibiotics & Pharmaceuticals Ltd (KAPL), a public sector company, would
be manufacturing this drug for domestic use from 1st July 2018. The Oxytocin formulations meant for
domestic consumption will be supplied by the manufacturer, i.e. KAPL, to the registered hospitals and
clinics in public and private sector directly. Oxytocin in any form or name will not be allowed to be sold
through retail Chemist. Oxytocin is a naturally-occurring hormone that causes uterine contractions
during labour and helps new mothers lactate. But, its misuse is widespread in the dairy industry, where
livestock are injected with oxytocin to make them release milk at a time convenient to farmers. The
hormone is also used to increase the size of vegetables and fruits such as pumpkins, watermelons,
brinjals, gourds and cucumbers.
225. What is the theme of the 2018 National Statistics Day (NSD) in India?
[A] Administrative Statistics
[B] Agri-Food Statistics
[C] Statistics on Trees & Climate Change
[D] Quality Assurance in Official Statistics
Correct Answer: D [Quality Assurance in Official Statistics]
Notes:
The “Statistics Day” is celebrated every year on June 29 at the National level in India to create public
awareness about the importance of statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation. The
day also acknowledges the notable contribution of Late Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis in the
fields of statistics, statistical system and economic planning. The 2018 theme is “Quality Assurance in
Official Statistics”, which is chosen to underscore the importance of compliance with essential
parameters of quality in statistical systems and products.
226. The NCST has organized a National Seminar on “Conservation of Particularly Vulnerable
Tribes of Andaman and Nicobar Islands. As per which article of the Constitution, the NCST set up
to protect the interests of Scheduled Tribes (ST)?
[A] Article 338(A)
[B] Article 339(A)
[C] Article 337(A)
[D] Article 336(A)
Correct Answer: A [Article 338(A) ]
Notes:
The National Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCST) is organizing a two-day National Seminar on
“Conservation of Particularly Vulnerable Tribes of Andaman and Nicobar Islands” in New Delhi from
June 27, 2018. The purpose of the seminar is to decide how to preserve the habitat and culture of these
tribal groups. This Seminar is being organized in collaboration with Anthropological Survey of India
(AnSI) and its theme is ‘The Way Forward’. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are home to the most
primitive tribal groups: Great Andamanese, Onge, Jarawa, Sentinelese, Nicobarese and Shompens. Some
of these tribal groups are on the verge of extinction. It is important to understand the challenges they
face and to preserve them. With these objectives in view, the NCST, a Constitutional body set up under
Article 338(A) of the Constitution to protect the interests of Scheduled Tribes, is organizing for the first
time a two-day Seminar.
227. Who has authored the book “Ahimsa”, which sheds light on India’s freedom struggle?
[A] Shantanu Duttagupta
[B] Amala Shankar
[C] Supriya Kelkar
[D] Nandi Katheria
Correct Answer: C [Supriya Kelkar]
Notes:
Screenwriter Supriya Kelkar has authored the book “Ahimsa”, which will be published in India in August
2018. Her debut novel will sheds light on the Indian freedom movement, which is inspired by her great-
grandmother’s experience working with Mahatma Gandhi. In 1942, after Gandhi ji asked one member of
each family to join the non-violent freedom movement, 10-year-old Anjali was devastated to think that
her father will risk his life for the country. But he’s not the one joining. Anjali’s mother was. As the family
got more and more involved in the cause, Anjali gives up her privileges and confronts her prejudices to
ensure her little contribution to the movement is complete. “Ahimsa”, published by Scholastic India, is
essentially about female empowerment and overcoming one’s internal struggles and giving up one’s
biases.
228. The Gangrel Dam is built across which river in Chhattisgarh?
[A] Son
[B] Ganga
[C] Mahanadi
[D] Narmada
Correct Answer: C [Mahanadi ]
Notes:
The Gangrel Dam is built across the Mahanadi River in Dhamtari district of Chhattisgarh. It is also
known as the R.S. Sagar Dam and is the longest dam in Chhattisgarh. This dam supplies year round
irrigation, allowing farmers to harvest two crops per year. The dam also supplies 10 MW of hydro-
electric power capacity.

229. Donald Hall, the noted poet passed away. He belonged to which country?
[A] Argentina
[B] Brazil
[C] Germany
[D] United States
Notes:
Donald Hall, the award-winning American poet and writer, has passed away in New Hampshire, United
States on June 23, 2018. Hall began writing when he was just 12 years old. Over the course of a career
that spanned more than seven decades, he wrote more than 40 books, half of which were works of
poetry. He was the United States Poet Laureate for 2007-08. He received the Robert Frost Medal in 1991
and the National Medal of Arts, the nation’s highest honour for artists, in 2010.
230. According to data on language released as part of Census 2011, which is the most spoken
language in India?
[A] Marathi
[B] Bengali
[C] Telugu
[D] Hindi
Correct Answer: D [Hindi ]
Notes:
According to data on language released by the Union government as part of Census 2011, Hindi is the
most spoken language in India. As per data, the percentage of Indian population with Hindi as their
mother tongue has risen to 43.63% from 41.03% in 2001. Bengali has taken the second spot, followed by
Marathi, Telugu, Tamil and Gujarati. Urdu is the 7th most spoken language in India, while Sanskrit was
the least spoken of the country’s 22 scheduled languages. Out of unscheduled languages, the most
spoken language was Bhili or Bhilodi, native to Rajasthan with 1.04 crore speakers and is followed by
Gondi with 29 lakh speakers. According to Census authorities, mother tongue is defined as the language
spoken in childhood by the person’s mother to the person or, where the mother has died in the person’s
infancy, the language mainly spoken in the person’s household during childhood.
231. Who has been sworn-in as the first-ever visually impaired judge of Pakistan?
[A] Yawar Ali

[B] Sana Afzal

[C] Yousaf Saleem
[D] Zubair Sabir
Correct Answer: C [Yousaf Saleem]
Notes:
Yousaf Saleem, who belongs to Lahore, has been sworn-in as the first-ever visually impaired judge of
Pakistan. He was among 21 judges who took the oath to be sworn in as a civil judges on June 26, 2018.
Yousaf is the son of a charted accountant and is visually impaired by birth. He has four sisters and two of
them are also visually impaired. His sister Saima Saleem became first visually impaired civil servant in
2007 and is currently serving with Prime Minister Secretariat while the other sister is a university
lecturer.
232. Who has broken the legendary Sriram Singh’s four-decade-old 800m National record at the
58th National Inter State Senior Athletics Championships 2018?
[A] Sangram Singh
[B] Jinson Johnson
[C] Arka Bhattacharya
[D] Mohammad Afsal Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: B [Jinson Johnson]

Notes:
Jinson Johnson, representing Kerala, has broken the legendary Sriram Singh’s four-decade-old 800m
National record at the 58th National Inter State Senior Athletics Championships in Guwahati on June 27,
2018. He clocked one minute and 45.65 seconds to clinch the gold in men’s 800m title and to better the
earlier record of 1:45.77 in the name of Sriram set during the 1976 Olympic Games. He also booked a
ticket for the Asian Games as the qualification mark is 1:47.50.
233. Which flagship programme of Ministry of Shipping got ‘Gold Award’ in infrastructure sector
in 52nd Skoch Summit 2018?
[A] Sagarmela
[B] Sagarmala
[C] Sagarmatha
[D] Sagarmatka
Correct Answer: B [Sagarmala]
Notes:
The Ministry of Shipping’s flagship programme for port-led-prosperity ‘Sagarmala’ received the ‘Gold
Award’ in infrastructure sector in the recently concluded 52nd Skoch Summit 2018 in New Delhi. The
award recognizes the programmes’s contribution to India’s socio-economic transformation and it’s role
in propelling fast-track growth and infrastructure development. The Sagarmala Programme also
received the ‘Order of Merit’ at the Summit. The Skoch Awards recognize leadership and excellence in
accelerating socio-economic changes. These awards have become a benchmark of best practices in India
in the fields of governance, infrastructure, finance, banking, technology, corporate citizenship,
economics and inclusive growth.
234. To detect cervical cancer, a new technique “Liquid Based Cytology (LBC)” has launched in
which state?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Karnataka
[C] Haryana
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: A [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
For screening cervical cancer, a new Liquid Based Cytology (LBC) technique — Direct to Slide — has
launched in Tamil Nadu. The LBC technique would help in detecting cervical cancer during the pre-

cancerous stages. In LBC, a soft brush is used to touch the cervix and take cells from the neck of the
uterus. This is transferred into a bottle containing a preservative and sent for laboratory analysis. The
cell contents are processed on a slide. In the conventional method, the total number of cells collected
may not get transferred onto the slide, while in LBC, whatever sample is taken gets transferred onto the
slide.
235. India has committed to increase its grant to $15 million to the Global Environment Facility
(GEF). Who is the representative of India in the GEF Council?
[A] M S Mehta
[B] Chandra Shekhar
[C] Aparna Subramani
[D] Rama Choudhary
Correct Answer: C [Aparna Subramani]
Notes:
In a bid to boost environmental protection around the world, India will increase its grant from $12
million to $15 million to the Global Environment Facility (GEF)’s new four-year investment cycle, known
as GEF-7. It was announced by India’s representative to GEF Council Aparna Subramani, during a
meeting of the GEF Council in Da Nang, Vietnam. The meeting was part of a 4-day-long conference
scheduled to conclude on June 28. Apart from her home country, Subramani also represents Bangladesh,
Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal and Sri Lanka in the GEF Council. India, which is both a donor and a recipient of
GEF, is among the world’s most vulnerable countries to climate change. The GEF is an international
partnership of 183 countries, which is a multilateral financial mechanism to provide grants for
environmental projects.
236. Which state government has announced a new scheme ‘Kanya Van Samruddhi Yojana’?
[A] Punjab
[B] Mizoram
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: D [Maharashtra ]
Notes:
The Maharashtra government has announced a new scheme called ‘Kanya Van Samruddhi Yojana’,
wherein farmers families where girl children are born, will be given saplings for plantation. The purpose
of the scheme is to empower women and promoting tree plantation. The farmer family blessed with a
girl child between April 1 and March 31 can make an application with the Gram Panchayat after which
they will get 10 saplings free of cost from the forest department. The saplings will be of different
varieties, including teakwood, mango, jackfruit, black plum and tamarind. The scheme will be applicable
for maximum two girls. The beneficiaries will also be helped under the horticulture scheme. It is
expected that at least two lakh farmers families will benefit from the scheme every year.
237. Which committee has been constituted by the Maharashtra Government to study issues
related to floating solar power plant at Ujani dam?
[A] Puneet Mehta committee
[B] Satish Chavan committee
[C] Akshita Patil committee
[D] Nidhi Patel committee
Correct Answer: B [Satish Chavan committee ]
Notes:
The Maharashtra government has constituted a committee to study issues related to the development of
a 1,000-MW floating solar power plant at Ujani dam in Solapur district. The committee will be headed by
Satish Chavan, the Director (Commercial) of Maharashtra State Electricity Distribution Company Ltd
(MSEDCL). Beside this, the committee will also study the environmental impact of the project and
monitor the month-wise water level of the dam. Ujani dam is an earthfill cum Masonry gravity dam
located near Ujjani village of Madha Taluk in Solapur district. The dam is on the Bhima River, a tributary
of the Krishna River, and has a total capacity of 110 TMC.

238. The 2018 Kabir Mahotsav has started in which state to mark the 500th death anniversary of
mystic poet and saint Kabir Das?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: C [Uttar Pradesh]
Notes:
To mark the 500th death anniversary of mystic poet and saint Kabir Das, Prime Minister Narendra Modi
has inaugurated the two-day ‘Kabir Mahotsav’ at Maghar in Sant Kabir Nagar district of Uttar Pradesh
on June 28, 2018. The festival, organised by the Union Culture Ministry, will feature folk music, dance
performances and musical theatre in which artistes from all over the country will participate. Mr Modi
also visited the Sant Kabir cave and unveils a plaque to mark the laying of foundation stone of the Kabir
Academy, which will highlight the great saint’s teachings and philosophy.
239. The Raja Lakhamagouda dam is located in which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Karnataka Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[C] Tamil Nadu

[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Karnataka]
Notes:
The Raja Lakhamagouda dam is situated at Hidkal village in Hukkeri Taluk of Belagavi district in North
Karnataka. It is build across the Ghataprabha River in the Krishna River basin. The dam with the height
of 62.48 m and 10 Vertical Crest Gates, impounds a large reservoir with a gross surface area of 63.38 Sq
Km, and storage capacity of 51.16 Tmcft. The dam is named after Raja Lakhamagouda Sardesai,
philanthropist and Zamindar of Vantamuri.
240. Which district has been ranked first in the NITI Aayog’s Delta ranking of Aspirational
Districts Programme?
[A] Bijapur district in Chhattisgarh
[B] West Sikkim district in Sikkim
[C] Asifabad district in Telangana
[D] Dahod district of Gujarat
Correct Answer: D [Dahod district of Gujarat ]
Notes:
The NITI Aayog released the First Delta Ranking (incremental progress) of the Aspirational Districts
Programme in New Delhi on June 29, 2018. The ranking measured the incremental progress made by
districts between 31st of March and 31st of May, 2018. The Dahod district of Gujarat with 19.8 points
ranked first in the Delta ranking, while West Sikkim district in Sikkim stood second with 18.9 points. The
districts have been ranked in a transparent basis on parameters across Health and Nutrition, Education,
Agriculture and Water Resources, Financial Inclusion and Skill Development and Basic Infrastructure
through 49 key performance indicators. The purpose of this ranking is to spur a sense of competition
among the dynamic teams in the districts. The knowledge partners of NITI Aayog – Tata Trusts, and Bill
and Melinda Gates Foundation (ID Insights) – are expected to provide data on 13 survey indicators and
have validated values for 29 data-points. The next ranking will take into account these inputs and will be
released soon thereafter.
241. Which state government has been awarded for reducing maternal mortality under Prime
Minister’s Safe Motherhood Campaign?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Uttar Pradesh

[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: A [Madhya Pradesh ]
Notes:
The Madhya Pradesh government has been awarded for reducing maternal mortality under Prime
Minister’s Safe Motherhood Campaign. The award ceremony was held in New Delhi on June 29, 2018. As
per the report of the Registrar General of India, Madhya Pradesh has been registered an unprecedented
48-digit decline in maternal deaths from 2014 to 2016. The maternal mortality rate was 221 in the year
2011-13, which has now dropped down further to just 173. There has been a significant decline of 22% in
the last 3 years in the state. The results of the various awareness programmes like institutional delivery,
ANM, Anganwadi workers, knock-out campaigns etc. have now started showing fruitful result. The State
government official claimed that this decline will be more noticeable in the coming years.
242. Who will lead Indian women’s team for the 2018 Women’s Hockey World Cup tournament in
London?
[A] Sunita Lakra
[B] Rani Rampal
[C] Nikki Pradhan
[D] Gurjit Kaur
Correct Answer: B [Rani Rampal] Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
Notes:
Forward Rani Rampal has been named as the captain of India’s 18-member squad for the prestigious
2018 women’s hockey World Cup tournament, which is slated to begin in London on July 21. Indian team
has been placed in Pool B alongside hosts and world no.2 England, world no.7 USA and world no.16
Ireland. India’s defence will consist of Sunita Lakra, Deep Grace Ekka, Deepika, drag-flicker Gurjit Kaur
and Reena Khokhar. In the midfield, Namita Toppo, Lilima Minz, Monika, Neha Goyal, Navjot Kaur and
Nikki Pradhan will hold fort.
243. What is the India’s rank in the 2018 Global Real Estate Transparency Index (GRETI)?
[A] 35th
[B] 40th
[C] 66th
[D] 27th
Correct Answer: A [35th ]
Notes:
India has been ranked 35th in the 2018 Global Real Estate Transparency Index (GRETI), according to a
report by real estate advisory firm Jones Lang LaSalle Inc. (JLL). The ranking is expected to improve
further in the GRETI 2020 survey, on the back of several government initiatives such as Real Estate
(Regulation and Development) Act (RERA), GST and Benami Transactions Act. In it, India’s real estate
market is currently placed in the ‘semi-transparent’ zone. According to the survey, UK is at the top
position followed by Australia and the US. France, Canada, Netherlands, New Zealand, Germany, Ireland
and Sweden are in top 10 in the list of 100 countries. Sri Lanka is at the 66th position and Pakistan at
75th among south Asian countries. Venezuela is the least transparent market with 100th rank. The index
measures transparency based on factors such as data availability, authenticity and accuracy; governance
of public agencies as well as stakeholders of the realty sector; transaction processes and costs associated
with those; and the regulatory and legal environment.
244. The 12th National Statistics Day (NSD-2018) is celebrated on which date in India?
[A] June 28
[B] June 27
[C] June 29
[D] June 30
Notes:
The 12th National Statistics Day (NSD-2018) is celebrated on June 29 at the National level in India with
theme “Quality Assurance in Official Statistics” to create public awareness about the importance of
statistics in socio-economic planning and policy formulation, and to acknowledge the contribution of
Late Professor Prasanta Chandra Mahalanobis. Ministry of Statistics & Programme Implementation and
Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) jointly celebrated 12th Statistics Day and the closing ceremony of the
125th Birth Anniversary of Prof. P. C. Mahalanobis on 29th June 2018 at Kolkata. On the occasion, Vice
President of India released a commemorative coin of Rs 125 and circulation coin of Rs 5 denomination as
a mark of respect to Prof. Mahalanobis. The Indian Statistical Institute (ISI) at Kolkata, set up by Prof.
Mahalanobis in 1931, and was declared an autonomous “Institute of National Importance” through an act
of Parliament in 1959.
245. The Union Government has launched a mobile application “ReUnite” for which purpose?
[A] To track and trace bank defaulters
[B] To track and trace missing children
[C] to track and trace Sagarmala project
[D] to track and trace Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
Correct Answer: B [To track and trace missing children]
Notes:
On June 29, Suresh Prabhu, the Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation, launched a
mobile application “ReUnite” in New Delhi to track and trace missing and abandoned children in India.
The app is multiuser where parents and citizens can upload pictures of children, and provide detailed
description like name, birth mark, address,Vineet
report to the police station, search and identify missing kids.
The photographs will not be saved in the mobile phone’s physical memory. Amazon Rekognition, web
facial recognition service, is being used to identify missing kids. The app is available for both Android
and iOS.
246. As per Mercer’s 24th annual Cost of Living Survey 2018, which is the India’s most expensive
city?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Mumbai
[C] Bengaluru
[D] Chennai
Correct Answer: B [Mumbai]
Notes:
According to Mercer’s 24th annual Cost of Living Survey 2018, Mumbai (55) is India’s most expensive
city, followed by New Delhi (103) and Chennai (144). Kolkata (182) and Bengaluru (170) are the least
expensive Indian cities ranked. As per survey, the factors like instability of housing markets, low
inflation, and fluctuating prices for goods and services are impacting the cost of doing business in
various cities around the world. This year, Hong Kong is emerged as the most expensive city for
expatriates both in Asia and globally as a consequence of Luanda’s drop in the ranking due in part to the
downward trend in the city’s housing market. Hong Kong is followed by Tokyo (2), Singapore (4), Seoul
(5), Shanghai (7), and Beijing (9).
247. The 2018 International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is observed on which date?
[A] June 27
[B] June 28
[C] June 26
[D] June 29
Notes:
The United Nations’ (UN) International Day in Support of Victims of Torture is observed every year on
June 26 to speak out against the crime of torture and to honor and support victims and survivors
throughout the world. The day is an opportunity to call on all stakeholders including UN Member States,
civil society and individuals everywhere to unite in support of the hundreds of thousands of people
around the world who have been victims of torture and those who are still tortured today.
248. Who is the author of the book “Vedvigyan Alok”?
[A] Agnivarat Naishthik
[B] Vilas Nayak

[C] Alok Srivastav
[D] Indu Taneza
Correct Answer: A [Agnivarat Naishthik]
Notes:
The book “Vedvigyan Alok” (Maharishi Aitareya Mahidas Praneet – Aitareya Brahmina ki Vaigyanik
Vyakhya) has been authored by Acharya Agnivarat Naishthik. It is recently received by M. Venkaiah
Naidu, the Vice President of India. The book is the scriptural verse in Vedas’ prose. The Brahman
textbooks are placed second in order of preference of Vedic literature. These texts were composed only
by the Brahmin community; hence their names are called “Brahmins”. Their language is Vedic Sanskrit
which has been considered extremely complicated. All these are written according to the Vedas that
means all the four Vedas get different Brahmins.
249. The Raneh waterfall is located on which river in Madhya Pradesh?
[A] Kali Sindh
[B] Narmada
[C] Ken
[D] Tapti
Correct Answer: C [Ken]
Notes:
The Raneh Falls is a natural water fall located in Chhatarpur district of Madhya Pradesh on Ken River. It
is situated about 20 km away from world famous heritage site Khajuraho. The waterfall is also close to
Panna Tiger Reserve and Ken crocodile sanctuary. It was awarded the Best Holiday Award for
2017.Tourists from all over the country and abroad come here every year to enjoy the natural beauty.
The Ken River here runs through a narrow gorge of igneous rocks rich in Granite and Dolomite. The
Pandav Falls in Panna National Park is also located nearby.
250. UN Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day is celebrated on which of the following
dates?
[A] 25 June
[B] 26 June
[C] 27 June
[D] 28 June
Correct Answer: C [27 June]
Notes:
United Nations has designated June 27 as Micro-, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day through its
resolution 71/279. The first such day was observed in 2017 while 2nd UN Micro, Small and Medium-sized
Enterprises Day has been celebrated on June 27, 2018.
251. What is the initial subsidy approved by the government for MSMER clusters under its new
Solar Charkha Mission?
[A] Rs. 200 Crore
[B] Rs. 550 Crore
[C] Rs. 700 Crore
[D] Rs. 950 Crore
Correct Answer: B [Rs. 550 Crore]
Notes:
On occasion of 2nd UN Micro, Small and Medium-sized Enterprises Day, 2018, President of India Ram
Nath Kovind launched the Solar Charkha Mission covering artisans in 50 identified clusters. The mission
will provide a subsidy of Rs 550 crore in the initial two years for 50 clusters and every cluster will
employ 400 to 2000 artisans. Objective is to link 5 crore women to this initiative. The mission will
generate employment in rural areas and contribute to the green economy.
252. Which of the following state governments have launched Kanya Van Samruddhi Yojana
recently?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Gujarat
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: B [Maharashtra]
Notes:
Kanya Van Samruddhi Yojana is a new scheme of Maharashtra government in which farmers families
where girl children are born, will be given saplings for plantation. The saplings will be of different
varieties, including teakwood, mango, jackfruit, black plum and tamarind. The scheme will be applicable
for maximum two girls. Income from these trees will safeguard future of gril child.
253. Which of the following states in India has maximum number of Unesco World Heritage Sites?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Karnataka
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: C [Maharashtra]
Notes:
Currently, Maharashtra has total five Unesco World Heritage Sites and this number is highest among all
states and UTs in India. The sites include Ajanta Caves, Ellora Caves, Elephanta Caves, Chhatrapati
Shivaji Maharaj Terminus and the Victorian Gothic and Art Deco buildings of South Mumbai. The last
one was included on 30 June, 2018.
254. At present (June, 2018), which of the following state governments Disaster Management
Authorities are working with Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES)?
[A] Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh
[B] Odisha and Tamil Nadu
[C] West Bengal and Tamil Nadu
[D] Goa and Karnataka
Correct Answer: B [Odisha and Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
In June 2018, Odisha government entered into a collaboration with the Regional Integrated Multi-
Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES), an intergovernmental body under United Nations. RIMES has 48
member nations among Asia Pacific and Africa Region and is aimed at automating risk management,
advisory generation and dissemination. This body had evolved in the aftermath of 2004 Indian Ocean
Tsunami due to efforts of African and Asian Countries.
255. Which of the following districts have topped the first Delta ranking released in June 2018 by
NITI Aayog that captures incremental improvements of Aspirational districts on health, education
and other development parameters?
[A] Ramanathapuram (Tamil Nadu)
[B] West Sikkim (Sikkim)
[C] Vizianagaram (Andhra Pradesh)
[D] Dahod (Gujarat)
Correct Answer: D [Dahod (Gujarat)]
Notes:
Gujarat’s Dahod district topped the first Delta ranking released today by NITI Aayog that captures
incremental improvements of Aspirational districts on health, education and other development
parameters. Transformation of Aspirational District’s programme was launched by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi for quickly and effectively transforming some of the most underdeveloped districts of
the country. In the recent list, Dahod district of Gujarat improved 19.8 points to rank first. West Sikkim
district in Sikkim stood second with 18.9 points.
256. The ‘IPledgefor9′ Achievers Awards are related to which of the following government
schemes?
[A] Beti Bachao, Beti Padhao
[B] Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan
[C] Pradhanmantri Ujjawala Yojana
[D] PradhanMantri Mudra Yojana
Correct Answer: B [Pradhan Mantri Surakshit Matritva Abhiyan]
Notes:
‘IPledgefor9′ Achievers Awards were given recently to individuals and teams of doctors from the
private sector and States for their exemplary services, outstanding support of institutions and
commitment from support partners in achieving PMSMA’s objectives of safe motherhood to every
woman in the country. These awards were established to celebrate individual and team achievements
and acknowledge voluntary contributions for PMSMA in states and districts across India.
257. Which of the following apps have been launched by government in June 2018 to track and
trace missing and abandoned children in India?
[A] ReUnite
[B] Scout Vineet Singh | vineet.vineetsingh@gmail.com |
[C] Rummage
[D] Pathway
Correct Answer: A [ReUnite]
Notes:
Union Minister Suresh Prabhu has launched a mobile application called ReUnite; helps to track and trace
missing and abandoned children in India. It also uses Amazon Rekognition, web facial recognition
service to identify missing kids.
258. What was the theme of Statistics Day – 2018?
[A] Statistics for Common Man
[B] Quality Assurance in Official Statistics
[C] Statistics for New India
[D] Statistics for Development
Correct Answer: B [Quality Assurance in Official Statistics]
Notes:
The theme selected for the Statistics Day this year is ‘‘Quality Assurance in Official Statistics’ for focused
discussions and efforts throughout the year, aimed at bringing about improvements in the selected area.
259. What is India’s rank is 2018 Global Real Estate Transparency Index (GRETI)?
[A] 32
[B] 35
[C] 39
[D] 42
Correct Answer: B [35]
Notes:
India has moved up one place from 36 in 2016 to 35th spot in 2018 on JLL’s Global Real Estate
Transparency Index (GRETI) aided by improvement in market fundamentals, policy reforms, and
liberalization of FDI. The report covers 100 markets and is based on 186 indicators divided into six areas
–performance measurement, market fundamentals, governance of listed vehicles, regulatory & legal
frameworks, transaction process and environmental sustainability.
260. The first-ever UN’s International Day of Parliamentarism is celebrated on which date?
[A] June 30
[B] June 26

[C] June 25
[D] June 29
Notes:
The first-ever International Day of Parliamentarism is celebrated across the world on 30th June 2018 to
recognize the importance of parliaments and their responsibility of representing the people. The day is
not only an occasion to stress the critical importance of parliaments in any democratic society but also
to reinforce the call for a global parliament. It is also an opportunity for parliaments to take stock,
identify challenges, and ways to address them effectively. This date was chosen by the United Nations
General Assembly (UNGA) in a resolution 72/278 adopted on May 22nd as it coincides with the day in
1889, on which the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) — the global umbrella organization of parliaments
— was founded. The parliamentary systems fall into two categories: bicameral and unicameral. Out of
193 countries, 79 are bicameral and 114 are unicameral, making a total of 272 chambers of parliament
with over 46,000 members of parliament. The oldest parliament is the Althingi, the Icelandic Parliament,
founded in 930.
261. Who has been appointed new Head of Mission and Chief Military Observer for UN Military
Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP)?
[A] Stephanie T. Williams
[B] Jose Eladio Alcain
[C] Per Gustaf Lodin

[D] Antony K Luce
Correct Answer: B [Jose Eladio Alcain]
Notes:
Major General Jose Eladio Alcain of Uruguayan Army has been appointed new Head of Mission and Chief
Military Observer for UN Military Observer Group in India and Pakistan (UNMOGIP). He will succeed
Major General Per Gustaf Lodin of Sweden, who will complete his two year assignment in July 2018. In
1948, the UN Security Council (UNSC) established the UN Commission for India and Pakistan (UNCIP) to
investigate the dispute between India and Pakistan regarding the disputed state of Kashmir. In 1949,
UNCIP was absorbed into the UNMOGIP, which supervises the ceasefire between India and Pakistan and
to monitor the peace in Kashmir.

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Current Affairs [PDF E-Book] – June, 2018

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Month Highlights – June 2018

National targets for off-shore wind power

Science, Technology & Environment

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First military exercise of BIMSTEC

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Home Minister’s Special Operation Medal

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(thrice the speed of sound) and met all mission objectives.

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Features of web-based tool

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Cauvery Water Regulation Committee

The system was recently procured for Rs. 450 crore.

the most advanced in the series.

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IBSA Ministerial Meet held at Pretoria, South Africa

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Homebuyers Recognized as Financial Creditors

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‘GeoSpatial: A Force Multiplier for Defense and Internal Security’.

Queen Pineapple declared as State Fruit of Tripura

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Government extends timeline of Dam Rehabilitation & Improvement Project

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pegged usage of these toilets at 91% and 95% respectively.

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headquartered in New Delhi.

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incumbent Vinay Mittal who completes his term.

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offline and online modes on single platform.

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Explained: Seva Bhoj Yojna

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Institutional Trading Platform (ITP) framework

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