Gktoday December 1

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Current Affairs [PDF] -December 1-15, 2018
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Contents
......................... . _ ........ _ .. ...................................................................
News Headlines: December 1-15, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................... 3
December 1, 2018 .......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 14
December 3, 2018 ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 17
December 4, 2018 ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 21
December 5, 2018 ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25
December 6, 2018 ........................................................................................................................................................................................................ 28
December 7, 2018 ......................................................................................................................................................................................................... 32
December 10, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
December 11, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
December 12, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 43
December 13, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 45
December 14, 2018 ...................................................................................................................................................................................................... 48
December 15, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................... 52
Multiple Choice Questions ........................................................................................................................................................................................... 58
© 2019 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 2

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News Headlines: December 1-15, 2018

Current Affairs – News Headlines: December 1, 2018
India
Food regulator FSSAI launches mass media campaign about the bad effects of industrially produced
trans fat
Tyeb Mehta’s painting ‘Durga Mahisasura Mardini’ sold for Rs 20.49 crore in auction in Mumbai
Amrita Sher-Gil’s painting ‘The Little Girl in Blue’ sold for Rs 18.69 crore in auction in Mumbai
President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurates 2nd International Ambedkar Conclave in New Delhi
launches special edition of Yojana magazine on Digital India
Economy & Corporate
India’s GDP growth at 7.1% in July-September: CSO
Fiscal deficit at 103.9% of Budget Estimate (BE) during April-October of the current financial year
Country’s foreign exchange reserves at USD 392.785 billion in the week to November 23
Growth rate of eight infrastructure sectors slows down to 4.8% in October 2018 (was 5% in October
2017)
puts imports of gold dore in restricted category, importers will need a license to import this
commodity
First India-ASEAN InnoTech Summit organised in New Delhi by FICCI in association with DST
(Department of Science & Technology)

World
PM Modi attends BRICS Leaders’ Informal Meeting on the sidelines of 13th G20 Summit in Buenos
Aires, Argentina
Ukraine bars Russian men aged 16-60 from entering the country following the imposition of martial
law
Bangladeshi activist Vashkar Bhattacharjee and Chinese ICT company Tencent awarded
UNESCO/Emir Jaber al-Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah Prize for Digital Empowerment of Persons with
Disabilities
Slovakia’s Foreign Minister Miroslav Lajcak resigns following rejection of UN Global Pact on
migration by his country’s Parliament
India takes up the matter of 7 Indian IL&FS employees held hostage in Ethiopia with the Ethiopian
authorities
Maldives Parliament scraps upper age limit for contesting Presidential election
Sports
Wrestling Federation of India rolls out annual contracts system for wrestlers
Ridhima Dilawari wins 17th Leg of the Hero Women’s Pro Golf Tour at the Noida Golf Course
Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TRIFED felicitate Women’s World Boxing Champion Mary Kom at
close of ‘Aadi Mahotsav’ in Delhi
India
2018 gfiles Governance Awards in New Delhi: Former SEBI Chairman D.R. Mehta, who set up
Bhagwan Mahaveer Viklang Sahayata Samiti (BMVSS) in 1975, wins lifetime contribution award
Nagaland: 55th statehood day celebrated on December 1; 10-day Hornbill Festival begins in Kohima
Nagaland: Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh launches Emergency Response Support System
(ERSS) in Kohima
54th Raising Day Parade of Border Security Force held in New Delhi
Economy & Corporate
Defence Acquisition Committee (DAC) approves procurement of BrahMos Missiles for two Indian
Navy ships, and Armoured Recovery Vehicles (ARVs) for Indian Army’s Main Battle Tank (MBT)
Arjun
Civil Aviation Ministry starts registration process for drone operators through a portal called

‘Digital Sky’
FICCI’s Economic Outlook Survey forecasts annual median GDP growth forecast for 2018-19 at 7.4%
and for 2019-20 at 7.5%
13th edition of CII Agro Tech India-2018 being organised in Chandigarh from December 1 to 4
Bank of Maharashtra MD & CEO Ravindra Prabhakar Marathe retires
World
PM Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin hold
trilateral meeting on the sidelines of G-20 summit in Buenos Aires
Asia Pacific Summit-2018 being held in Kathmandu on December 1-2, theme: ‘Addressing the Critical
Challenges of Our Time: Interdependence, Mutual Prosperity, and Universal Values’
World AIDS Day observed on December 1 with its theme as ‘Know your status’
George H. W. Bush, US President from 1989 to 1993, dies at 94
Instagram launches feature “Close Friends” that allows users to share stories with a smaller group of
people
Sports
Tata Motors Senior National Wrestling Championship in Gonda (UP): Vinesh Phogat (57 kg) and
Sakshi Malik (62 kg) win titles PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Current Affairs – News Headlines: December 2-3, 2018
India
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to be chief guest at Republic Day celebrations 2019
Delhi Environment minister Imran Hussain given ‘Hero to Animals Award’ by PETA for banning
glass-coated kite strings in the national capital
Air Forces of India and USA holding joint exercise “Ex Cope India-2018” in West Bengal from
December 3 to 14
WCD Minister Maneka Gandhi unveils cover of her upcoming book “There’s a Monster Under My
Bed! And Other Terrible Terrors”
Bilaspur Police in Chhattisgarh now holds the Guinness World Records for its ‘Rakhi with Khakhi’ as
part of which women tied ‘Rakhi’ to 50,033 police officials in 10 hours and took selfies with them
Economy & Corporate
S. Rajeev takes charge as new MD & CEO of Bank of Maharashtra
sets up six-member committee headed by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar to sell 149 small
and marginal oil and gas fields of state-owned ONGC and OIL to private and foreign companies
Train 18, India’s first locomotive-less train, breaches 180 kmph speed limit, becomes the country’s
fastest train
World
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery observed on December 2
G20 signatories to the Paris Agreement on climate except the US pledge to implement of the pact in
full
India will host the G20 Summit in 2022: PM Modi
The 24th Conference of the Parties to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (COP24) being held in Katowice, Poland from December 2 to 14
Sports
Tata Open India International Challenger Badminton in Mumbai: India’s Lakshya Sen (Men’s) and
Ashmita Chaliha (Women’s) win Singles titles
US boxer Deontay Wilder beats Tyson Fury to successfully defend his World Boxing Council (WBC)
World Heavyweight title in Los Angeles
Bangladesh (508) beat West Indies (110, 213) by an innings and 184 runs in 2nd test at Dhaka to win
2-match series 2-0
PM Modi gifted a football jersey with his name on its back by FIFA President Gianni Infantino in
Buenos Aires


India
UGC directs universities across the country to observe December 7 as the Armed Forces Flag Day
Japanese Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) and Indian Air Force conducting SHINYUU Maitri-18 air
exercise in Agra from Dec 3 to 7
Indian Navy to conduct ‘Exercise sea vigil’ in January 2019 to test robustness of coastal security
apparatus
Economy & Corporate
CRISIL lowers India’s GDP growth forecast for current fiscal to 7.4% from 7.5% estimated earlier
Moody’s Investors Service’s annual Banking System Outlook on India estimates country’s real GDP
for 2018-19 and 2019-20 to grow at 7.2% and 7.4% respectively
ADB to provide $85 million loan to improve skill development eco-system in Odisha and establish an
advanced skill training centre at Bhubaneswar
World
Sri Lanka’s Court of Appeal restrains controversially installed PM Mahinda Rajapaksa and his
purported Cabinet of Ministers from functioning in their respective offices
International Day of Persons with Disabilities observed on December 3; 2018 theme: Empowering
persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality
Qatar to leave Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) from January 2019
World Bank unveils USD 200 bn in climate action investment for 2021-25
Anglo-Dutch FMCG giant Unilever to acquire health food and drinks portfolio of GlaxoSmithKline
(GSK) for 3.1 billion pounds
GlaxoSmithKline agrees to buy U.S. cancer drug specialist Tesaro for $5.1 billion
Sports
Gagan Sethi (with navigator Sabatullah Khan) wins 55 km JK Tyre Hornbill Rally title in Kohima
Pune International Marathon: Ethiopia’s Atlawim Debebe wins men’s race in 2:17:17, Kenya’s Pascalia
Chepkogei wins women’s race in 2:50:27
India
Centre includes Gangotri and Yamunotri in Uttarakhand, Amarkantak in MP and Parasnath in
Jharkhand under PRASAD (Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage Augmentation Drive)
Navy Chief Admiral Sunil Lanba releases book titled ‘Blue Waters Ahoy!’ — chronicling the Indian
Navy’s History from 2001-10 — on Navy Day.
Navy Day celebrated on December 4 by Indian Navy to commemorate its offensive actions in 1971
Bangladesh liberation war
AP: Vijayawada enters international aviation map with Indigo flight to Singapore
UP: An international conference on bears being held in Agra from Dec 4 to 7 by Wildlife SOS
Economy & Corporate
Atul Sahai appointed as New India Assurance CMD for a 5 year term
Number of patents granted by India rose by 50% in 2017: UN’s WIPO
World
EAM Sushma Swaraj meets UAE’s Foreign Minister Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu
Dhabi
A digital interactive museum on Mahatma Gandhi and UAE’s founder Shaikh Zayed inaugurated in
Abu Dhabi
Dispute settlement body of WTO to set up a panel to assess if high customs duties imposed by the
US on certain steel and aluminium products infringes global trade norms
7-year old American boy Ryan of Ryan Toysreview tops Forbes’ list of “Highest-Paid YouTube Stars
2018” with income of $22 million
Soyuz spacecraft carrying Russian, American and Canadian astronauts arrives at the International

Space Station
Falcon 9 rocket launched by SpaceX places 64 small satellites into low Earth orbit
NASA’s spacecraft OSIRIS-REx arrives at its targeted asteroid Bennu after 2-year journey
Puerto Rico, Sri Lanka and Dominica were hardest hit by weather-related damages in 2017: Global
Climate Risk Index published by Germanwatch
Sports
Football: Croatia’s Luka Modric wins Men’s Ballon d’Or award, Norway’s Ada Hegerberg wins
Women’s Ballon d’Or
IPL team Delhi Daredevils renamed as Delhi Capitals
Gautam Gambhir announces retirement from cricket, made making 4154 runs in 58 Tests and 5238
runs in 147 ODIs
India
GSAT-11, India’s heaviest (5854 kg) satellite, launched by Ariane 5 VA-246 from Kourou in French
Guyana
SC approves Centre’s Witness Protection Scheme, asks govt to implement it
Sahitya Akademi Award 2018 in 24 languages announced. Winners include Anees Saleem: English,
Rama Kant Shukla: Sanskrit, Rahman Abbas: Urdu, Lok Nath Upadhyay: Nepali, Chitra Mughal:
Hindi and S. Ramakrishnan in Tamil
Christian Michel, the alleged middleman in the Rs 3600 crore AgustaWestland helicopter deal,
extradited from Dubai
Rbi Monetary Policy Review
Repo rate unchanged at 6.5%
Repo rate is the rate at which the central bank lends money to commercial banks in case of a fund
shortage
Reverse repo rate also stands unchanged at 6.25%
Reverse repo rate refers to the rate at which the central bank borrows money from commercial
banks to suck liquidity out of the system.
Marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and Bank Rate remain unchanged at 6.75%
Statutory liquidity ratio (SLR) cut by 25 basis points to 19.25% from January 1, 2019
SLR to be reduced by 25 basis points every quarter until it reaches the 18% level
SLR is the proportion of its net demand and time liabilities that a commercial banks need to
maintain in liquid assets like gold and government papers before providing credit to their own
customers.
Retail inflation projection lowered in the range of 2.7-3.2% for 2nd half of 2018-19; 3.8-4.2% in 1st half
of 2019-20
GDP forecast for 2018-19 at 7.4% and 7.5% for 1st half of 2019-20
Ombudsman scheme to be introduced to redress grievances of customers related to digital
transactions
Floating interest rates on personal, home, auto and MSE loans will be linked to external benchmarks
like repo rate or treasury yields, from April 1, 2019
Economy & Corporate
80th Session of the Policy Commission Meeting of the World Customs Organisations (WCO)
organised in Mumbai from December 3 to 5 by the Central Board of Customs and Indirect Taxes
(CBIC)
Forbes India Celebrity 100 list: Salman Khan retains top spot with income of Rs 253 crore in Oct
2017¬–Sept 2018
World
World Soil Day observed on December 5 with its theme as – ‘Be the Solution to Soil Pollution’
International Volunteer Day observed on December 5 by UN with its theme as ‘Volunteers build

Resilient Communities’
British artist Charlotte Prodger wins £40,000 Turner Prize for 2018
Albert Einstein’s 1954 letter about his views on God and religion sells for $2.89 million in auction in
NY
Sports
Kenya’s Eliud Kipchoge (Men’s Marathon) and Colombia’s Caterine Ibarguen (Women’s Long Jump)
win IAAF Athletes of the Year Awards
India
Supreme Court upholds decision of Puducherry Lieutenant Governor (LG) Kiran Bedi to nominate 3
MLAs
UP: Savitribai Phule, BJP MP from Bahraich, resigns from the party
B.R. Ambedkar School of Media Empowerment, New Delhi: Admissions opened to train Dalit and
Tribal youths in media studies
National Challenge – ‘Ideate for India – creative solutions using technology’ for school students
launched in New Delhi by Minister for Electronics and IT Ravi Shankar Prasad
Union Cabinet approves implementation of Shahpurkandi Dam (National Project) on river Ravi in
Punjab
Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) allows ESIC allows public to avail medical services at
its under-utilised hospitals
Indian Coast Guard conducts Exercise ‘Clean Sea-2018’ at sea off Port Blair
Noted agriculturalist Jayaraman, who pioneered the protection and propagation of indigenous
paddy varieties in Tamil Nadu, passes away in Chennai
World Bank assisted project “SMART” (State of Maharashtra’s Agribusiness and Rural
Transformation) launched in Maharashtra
Karnataka govt. to bear educational expenses of girl students in govt. colleges of the State from the
present academic year
India Water Impact Summit 2018 being organised in New Delhi from December 5 to 7
Economy & Corporate
All new vehicles will be sold pre-fitted with High Security Registration Plates (HSRP) from April 1,
2019: Ministry of Road Transport and Highways
Union Cabinet approves agriculture export policy with an aim to double the shipments to USD 60
billion by 2022
CCEA approves sale of govt.’s 52.63% stake in Rural Electrification Corporation (REC) to Power
Finance Corporation (PFC)
Actress Diana Penty appointed first India ambassador for cosmetics brand Estee Lauder
World
India (7%) is the 4th highest emitter of carbon dioxide in the world after China (27%), the US (15%)
and the EU (10%): Global Carbon Project
Google shuts down its smart messaging app Allo
Preeti Saran, a former senior Indian diplomat, elected to the UN’s Committee on Economic, Social
and Cultural Rights (CESCR)
German Chancellor Angela Merkel tops list of ‘World’s 100 Most Powerful Women’ by Forbes; Roshni
Nadar Malhotra (HCL Technologies), Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw (Biocon), Shobhana Bhartia (HT Media)
and Priyanka Chopra (actress) are the Indians in the list
Sports
Cheteshwar Pujara becomes 12th Indian batsman to score 5000 runs in Test cricket in his 65th
match against Australia at Adelaide
Pakistan’s Yasir Shah becomes fastest bowler to take 200 Test wickets in his 33rd test against NZ in
Abu Dhabi, breaks record held by former Australian leg-spinner Clarrie Grimmett who took 200

wickets in 36 Tests
India
IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) has given no objection for translocation of
cheetahs in India from Namibia in Africa: National Tiger Conservation Authority informs Supreme
Court
74% voting recorded in Assembly elections in Rajasthan, 67% in Telangana
Military Literature Festival (MLF) being held in Chandigarh from December 7 to 9
Asrarul Haq Qasmi, Congress Lok Sabha MP from Kishanganj in Bihar, dies at 76
Union Cabinet approves amendment of Jallianwala Bagh National Memorial Act, 1951, to ensure
representation of the Opposition Party in the Trust
New Delhi-based South Asian University commemorates 34th SAARC Charter Day
Armed Forces Flag Day observed on December 7
23rd International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) 2018 being held at Thiruvananthapuram from
December 7 to 13
Economy & Corporate
India’s current account deficit widens to 2.9% of GDP in Q2 of 2018-19
India’s foreign exchange reserves at USD 393.718 billion in the week to November 30
Krishnamurthy Subramanian appointed new Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) for a term of three years
Cabinet approves launch of National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems; will be
implemented by Department of Science & Technology at a cost of Rs 3,660 crore for a period of five
years
Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) takes up pilot project to promote use of methanol as
maritime fuel
NITI Aayog partners with Singapore-based AI firm Perlin to launch a global hackathon for
developing solutions aimed at creating social and economic impact in the country
sells 3.18% cent stake in PSU NBCC Ltd to Reliance Nippon Life Asset Management Ltd
HCL Technologies announces acquisition of IBM Software Products for $1.8 billion
IndiGo becomes 1st domestic airline to have 200 aircraft in its fleet
World
India’s proposal to observe an International Year of Millets in 2023 approved by FAO
US-sponsored resolution condemning militant group Hamas for firing rockets into Israel fails to
pass at the UN General Assembly
Ireland-sponsored resolution condemning Israeli occupation of Arab land seized during 1967 war
passes at UN General Assembly
US: William Barr appointed new Attorney General; Heather Nauert appointed new US Ambassador
to the UN
Some 3.9 billion people are now using the Internet, more than half of the global population is online:
ITU
International Civil Aviation Day observed on December 7, theme: ‘Working Together to Ensure No
Country is Left Behind’
Sports
NZ (274 & 353/7 declared) beat Pakistan (348 & 156) by 123 runs in 3rd test at Abu Dhabi; win 3-test
series 2-1
India
‘The Republican Ethic’ & ‘Loktantra Ke Swar’ – two volumes of selected speeches of President Ram
Nath Kovind, released
Foreign Minister of Iceland Gudlaugur Thór Thórdarson meets EAM Sushma Swaraj in Delhi
Hyderabad-based conservationist Imran Siddiqui honoured with this year’s Sanctuary Wildlife

Service Award
Submarine Day celebrated by Indian Navy to mark the induction of its first submarine INS Kalvari
on Dec 8, 1967
Shashi Tharoor wins Lifetime Achievement Award at Crossword Book Awards
Northeast Frontier Railway constructing tallest railway bridge of the world in Manipur at 141 m
surpassing the existing record of 139 m in Montenegro in Europe
AP: IAF conducts combined guided firing of surface-to-air missiles in a first-of-its-kind exercise
code-named CROSS BOW-18
Economy & Corporate
India Water Impact Summit 2018 organised by National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and the
Centre for Ganga River Basin Management and Studies from December 5 to 7 in New Delhi
World
Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman tours the headquarters of the strategic Indo-Pacific command
in Hawaii
Indian Navy ship INS Sunayna, deployed on anti- piracy operation in the Gulf of Aden, seizes arms
and ammunition off the coast of Somalia
Mexico’s Vanessa Ponce de Leon crowned Miss World 2018 in Sanya, China
China: Chang’e-4 lunar probe mission launched on a Long March 3B rocket from Xichang launch
centre
Colombia: Former President Belisario Betancur dies at 95 in Bogota
Sports
World number one Simona Halep wins Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Fan Favourite Award for
2nd straight season
Shubhankar Sharma clinches 2018 Asian Tour Order of Merit title
Adelaide: Rishabh Pant equals Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s record of most catches (6) by an Indian
wicketkeeper in a Test innings
MP batsman Ajay Rohera slams the highest first-class score on debut – 267 not out against
Hyderabad in Ranji Trophy Elite Group-B Cricket in Indore
India
India and Russian Federation conducting INDRA NAVY maritime exercise off Visakhapatnam from
Dec 9 to 16
Air forces of India and Russian Federation conducting Ex AVIAINDRA at Jodhpur from Dec 10 to 21
Armies of India and China conducting Exercise Hand-in-Hand at Chengdu, China from Dec 10 to 23
Nagaland: Perfect Strangers from Bengaluru wins Hornbill International Rock Contest 2018 held in
Dimapur
Kerala becomes first state to have 4 international airports with inauguration of Airport at Kannur
Arunachal Pradesh: Shi Yomi becomes 23rd district; carved out of West Siang district
‘Narendra Modi: Creative Disruptor, The Maker of New India’, written by R. Balashankar, released
Economy & Corporate
India to receive a total remittance of $80 billion in 2018: World Bank’s Migration and Development
Brief
notifies commonly used medical devices such as blood pressure monitors, digital thermometers and
glucometers as drugs under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act
World
Pakistan: 139 Indian pilgrims leave for Shree Katas Raj Dham temples in Punjab province
US: General Mark Milley to replace General Joseph Dunford as the military’s next chairman of the
Joint Chiefs of Staff
International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the
Prevention of this Crime observed on December 9

International Anti-Corruption Day observed on December 9

Sports
Italy wins ‘Admirals Cup’ Sailing Regatta held at the Indian Naval Academy (INA) in Ezhimala, Kerala
2nd Khelo India School Games to be held at Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex in Pune from
January 9 to 20 2019
Prathamesh Maulingkar becomes 1st Asian/Indian to win Mister Supranational title in Poland
India
5000-km range nuclear capable surface-to-surface missile Agni-5 successfully test-fired in Odisha
Rashtriya Lok Samta Party (RLSP) President Upendra Kushwaha resigns as Minister of State for
Human Resource Development
Tamil Nadu government launches 24-hour helpline ‘181’ for women
Noted historian and former Jamia Millia Islamia vice chancellor Mushirul Hasan dies in New Delhi at
69
Jagdish Thakkar, PRO (Public Relations Officer) at Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) dies in New Delhi
at 70
Vice-President Naidu meets Russian Parliamentary Delegation led by the Chairman of State Duma
Vyacheslav Volodin in Delhi
Economy & Corporate
Central Government contribution in National Pension Scheme raised to 14% from the existing 10%:
Finance Minister
Urjit Patel quits as RBI governor 9 months before his term was to end
Ratan N. Tata conferred the Steel Users Federation of India (SUFI) Lifetime Achievement Award in
Mumbai
UK Court orders extradition of Vijay Mallya to India to face trial for debt default of Rs 9,000 crore
HAL-developed Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) achieves important milestone of flying at 6 km
altitude
World
International Human Rights Day observed on December 10 with its theme as ‘Stand Up For Human
Rights’
Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration adopted at UN Conference in Marrakesh,
Morocco
Armenia’s acting Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan wins landslide victory in snap parliamentary
elections
Sports
India (250, 307) beat Australia (235, 291) by 31 runs in 1st test of 4-match series at Adelaide Oval;
Cheteshwar Pujara (123, 71) is man of the match
SAIL Hockey Academy beats Army XI Danapur 2-1 to clinch 115th All India Aga Khan Gold Cup
hockey tournament in Delhi
Assembly Election Results
Chhattisgarh (90/90): Congress: 68 (75.6% vote share), BJP: 16 (17.8%), Janta Congress Chhattisgarh
(JCC): 4 (4.4%), BSP: 2 (2.2%)
Madhya Pradesh (230/230): Congress: 114 (49.6% vote share), BJP: 109 (47.4%), BSP: 2 (0.9%), Others: 5
(2.2%)
Mizoram (40/40): Mizo National Front (MNF): 26 (65% vote share), Congress: 5 (12.5%). BJP: 1 (2.5%),
Others: 8 (20%)
Rajasthan (199/200): Congress: 99 (49.5% vote share), BJP: 73 (36.5%), BSP: 6 (3%), Others: 21 (10.5%)
Telangana (119/119): Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS): 88 (73.9% vote share), Congress: 19 (16%), TDP:
2 (1.7%), BJP: 1 (0.8%), Others: 9 (7.6%)

Chief Ministers of Mizoram (Lal Thanhawla), Rajasthan (Vasundhara Raje) and Chhattisgarh (Raman
Singh) resign
INDIA
President Ram Nath Kovind meets President U. Win Myint of Myanmar in capital Nay Pyi Taw
SC directs that names and identities of victims of rape and sexual assault should not be disclosed or
revealed
Home Ministry launches Twitter account @CyberDost to spread awareness about cybercrimes
J&K: IAF to start air courier service from Kargil district from December 25
Economy & Corporate
India’s first Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence established by the European Union inaugurated at the
Department of European Studies (DES) at Manipal Academy of Higher Education in New Delhi
Former bureaucrat Shaktikanta Das appointed new RBI Governor
Surjit Bhalla resigns from Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council
CAG Rajiv Mehrishi appointed as Vice-Chair of UN Panel of Auditors
World
International Mountain Day celebrated on December 11 with its theme as ‘#MountainsMatter’
India hands over to Myanmar the first 50 houses built for displaced Rohingya Muslims in Rakhine
province
India and China begin ‘Hand-in-Hand’ military drills in the Chinese city of Chengdu
Pakistan, China and Saudi Arabia among countries added to a US blacklist of nations that violate
religious freedom
Saudi Arabian journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who was murdered in October in the kingdom’s Istanbul
consulate, named Time magazine’s “Person of the Year” along with several other journalists
United States returns 3 church bells seized from Philippines in 1901
Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko signs legislation on ending the Treaty on Friendship,
Cooperation and Partnership between Ukraine and Russia
Scientists find evidence of water on asteroid Bennu using data from NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft
Sports
Sascha Bajin, coach of Naomi Osaka, becomes 1st recipient of Women’s Tennis Association (WTA)
Coach of the Year Award
Current Affairs – NEWS HEADLINES: December 13, 2018
India
Partners’ Forum being organised in New Delhi on December 12-13 by Ministry of Health and Family
Welfare and the Partnership of Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (PMNCH)
CMs of Mizoram-Lal Thanhawla, Rajasthan-Vasundhara Raje, MP-Shivraj Singh Chauhan &
Chhattisgarh-Raman Singh resign
Deep Sea Submarine Rescue System inducted into the Indian Navy in Mumbai
Janhvi Kapoor presented “Arts Stjerneskudd” (Shooting Star of the Year) award by Norwegian
Consulate in Mumbai
‘Didi, The Untold Mamata Banerjee’, written by Shutapa Paul, released
Punjab: Former Army Chief (2005-07) Gen J. J. Singh resigns from Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD)
West Bengal Assembly Deputy Speaker and TMC MLA H. A. Safwi dies in Kolkata at 73
J&K: B. B. Vyas resigns as Advisor to the Governor Satyapal Malik
Former Union MoS for External Affairs M. J. Akbar and ex Tehelka magazine editor, Tarun Tejpal
suspended from Editor’s Guild of India (EGI)
Economy & Corporate
SEBI relaxes start-ups listing norms; bourses to create ‘Innovators Growth Platform’
Consumer price index (CPI) based retail inflation at 2.33% in November
Industrial output, measured in terms of Index of Industrial Production (IIP), grows 8.1% in October
ADB retains its India growth forecast at 7.3% for 2018-19 and 7.6% for 2019-20

Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) to notify the Korean Won (WON) and Turkish
Lira (TRY) in the List of Currencies for Exchange Rate
Hinduja Group firm Ashok Leyland signs MoU with Israel’s Elbit Systems for high mobility vehicles
World
Myanmar: President Ram Nath Kovind visits the Shwedagon Pagoda at Yangon, inaugurates Rice
Bio-Park at Nay Pyi Taw
UN honours Uttar Pradesh-based startup ‘HelpUsGreen’ for recycling floral waste from temples to
clean Ganga
Sri Lanka: ousted PM Ranil Wickremesinghe proves his majority in Parliament, weeks after being
sacked by President Maithripala Sirisena in a controversial move
Universal Health Coverage Day observed on December 12
International Day of Neutrality observed on December 12
US Senate passes bill to impose visa ban on Chinese officials denying Americans access to Tibet
Six eminent global diplomats honoured with ‘Diwali – Power of One Awards’ at UN by NGO Diwali
Foundation, USA
Sports
India’s Manika Batra wins ‘Breakthrough Table Tennis Star’ award at International Table Tennis
Federation Star Awards in Incheon
PM hands over tricolour to Arunima Sinha on her expedition to Mount Vinson, Antarctica
Lokmat Parliamentary Awards
Presented in New Delhi by Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu
Lifetime Achievement: Sharad Pawar (NCP Rajya Sabha MP) and Murli Manohar Joshi (BJP Lok
Sabha MP)
Best Parliamentarians: Ghulam Nabi Azad (Congress Rajya Sabha MP) & Nishikant Dubey (BJP Lok
Sabha MP)
Best Woman Parliamentarian in Lok Sabha: Rama Devi (BJP)
Best Woman Parliamentarian in the Rajya Sabha: DMK’s Kanimozhi (DMK)
Outstanding work inside and outside Parliament as a first-time MP: Hema Malini (BJP Lok Sabha
MP)
Best Debut Woman Parliamentarian: Chhaya Verma (Congress Rajya Sabha MP)
India
Combined Guided Weapon Firing exercise ‘CROSSBOW-18’ held at Air Force Station Suryalanka in
AP from Dec 3 to 13
18th Meeting of India-Russia Inter-Governmental Commission on Military Technical Cooperation
(IRIGC-MTC) held in New Delhi; co-chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her
Russian counterpart Gen Sergei Shoigu
Telangana: K. Chandrasekhar Rao sworn in as CM for a second term in Hyderabad by Governor E. S.
L. Narasimhan
Producer-director Brijendra Pal Singh appointed new President of the Film and Television Institute
of India (FTII), Pune
Former IAS officer Bharat Bhushan Vyas appointed member of UPSC
Thiruvananthapuram: Iranian movie ‘Dark Room’ wins ‘Suvarna Chakoram’ (The Golden Crow
Pheasant) award in International Film Festival of Kerala
Malayalam film director Thoppil Ajayan, who won the Indira Gandhi Award for Best Debut Film of a
Director for ‘Perumthachan’ in 1990, dies in Thiruvananthapuram at 66
Kerala: CM Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurates Kochi Muziris Biennale-2018 in Kochi
Malayalam actress Priya Prakash Varrier is the most searched personality of the year in 2018 on
Google in India

Economy & Corporate

India and ADB sign $60 million Loan Agreement to reduce floods and the riverbank erosion in
Assam
Delhi High Court stays sale of prescribed medicines on the internet by online pharmacies
Google launches ‘Google Shopping’ in India to enable users to easily review prices from multiple
retailers
World
Yangon, Myanmar: President Ram Nath Kovind, inaugurates the Fifth Enterprise India Exhibition;
visits mausoleum of last Mughal ruler Bahadur Shah Zafar
Dissolution of Parliament by President Maithripala Sirisena ‘illegal’: Sri Lanka Supreme Court
UK: PM Theresa May wins vote of confidence in her leadership of the ruling Conservative Party over
Brexit deal
Japan selects the Chinese character for ‘disaster’ as its ‘defining symbol’ for 2018
Sports
Men’s Hockey World Cup: Netherlands beat India 2-1 in quarterfinal in Bhubaneswar
India
Centre had no role in the choice of Anil Ambani-led Reliance Aerostructure as an Indian Offset
Partner in the Rafale fighter jet deal: SC
Kamal Nath, Lok Sabha member from Chhindwara, to take oath as CM of MP on December 17
Ashok Gehlot and Sachin Pilot will be sworn in as CM and deputy CM of Rajasthan on December 17
English novelist Amitav Ghosh selected for this year’s Jnanpith Award by Bharatiya Jnanpith
Tulsi Ramsay, known for directing horror films like ‘Veerana’, ‘Purani Haveli’ and ‘Bandh Dawaza’,
dies at 77
Chiefs of IB and RAW Rajiv Jain and Anil K. Dhasmana respectively get 6 months extension from Dec
30
DD Kisan to launch first-of-its-kind reality show ‘Mahila Kisan Awards’ from December 17
Gujarat govt. bans export of livestock from the state
Economy & Corporate
India’s foreign exchange reserves flat at US$ 393.73 billion in the week ended December 7
Wholesale Price Index (WPI)-based inflation at 4.64% in November
India Post launches e-commerce portal
Railways to provide TTEs with hand-held devices to check availability of seats on real-time basis
to set up National Medical Devices Promotion Council (NMDPC)
Adani-Elbit UAV Complex, India’s 1st private Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) manufacturing
facility, inaugurated in Hyderabad
Nissan Kicks becomes the Official Car for the 2019 ICC Cricket World Cup
World
USA: Senate passes resolution to hold Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman responsible for
death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi at the Saudi consular premises in Istanbul on October 2
Nepal govt bans use of Indian currency notes above Rs 100
December 15 is International Tea Day
Irish parliament votes to legalise abortion
Grammy award-winning jazz singer Nancy Wilson dies at 81 in US
Actress and director Sondra Locke dies in US at 74
France’s LVMH says to buy luxury hotel group Belmond for USD 3.2 bn
Sri Lanka: SC upholds restraining court order against Mahinda Rajapaksa from acting as PM
Sports
Neha Tripathi clinches title at 18th and final leg of the Hero Women’s Pro Golf Tour in Kolkata

December 1, 2018
UNESCO/Emir Jaber al-Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah Prize awarded to Vashkar Bhattacharjee and Tencent
Bangladeshi disabilities’ advocate Vashkar Bhattacharjee and Chinese private sector ICT enterprise,
Tencent (China) were awarded UNESCO/Emir Jaber al Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah Prize for Digital
Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
They were awarded for there outstanding contribution to empowerment of persons with disabilities
through application of information and communication technologies (ICTs) to access information and
knowledge. They will be presented with award in ceremony to be at UNESCO Headquarters on occasion of
International Day of Persons with disabilities (Observed on 3 December).
Key Facts
Vashkar Bhattacharjee: He was awarded in individual category. He is leading advocate on production of
resources dedicated to learners with disabilities and to training of teachers in use accessible reading
materials. He has successfully developed Bangladesh’s first Accessible Dictionary in four forms, dedicated
to persons with visual, print and learning disabilities, and special programme of self-employment through
e-micro credit support for persons with disabilities.
Tencent (China): It was awarded in organizational category. It was recognized for its outstanding
contribution to empowerment of persons with disabilities by using inclusive digital technologies to
provide greatly enhanced access to information.
PRAVEEN GAUTAMIn China, Tencent
| praveen.dda.20@gmail.com | products have helped persons with
special needs access critical information and interact more easily with digital devices, thus improving
their quality of life.
UNESCO/Emir Jaber Al Ahmad Al Jaber Al Sabah Prize for Digital Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
It is awarded to persons/organisations in recognization of their outstanding contributions of individuals
and organizations in promoting inclusion and enhancing lives of persons with disabilities through
application of digital solutions, resources and technologies. It will be offered biennially in 2018-19 and
2020-21. It will be awarded in each biennial edition and will be given in Individual Person and
Organization category. It carries monetary award of US $40,000, which is distributed equally between
individual and the organizational winner. It is sponsored by Kuwait in memory of its late ruler Jaber Al-
Ahmad Al-Sabah.
First India-ASEAN InnoTech Summit held in New Delhi
The first India-ASEAN InnoTech Summit was held in New Delhi. It was organized by Federation of Indian
Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) in association with Department of Science & Technology
(DST) and Ministry of External Affairs.
Objectives of this summit were
Explore avenues of cross country partnerships with Indian R&D-based enterprises.
Capture global trends in technology management and strategy
Advance progressive ideas for policy reforms and regulatory environment
Create avenues for industry-academia-government partnerships
Build capacities for market assessment and rapid commercialization of research
Promote best practices in financing, strategy, and leadership
Connect local and global research & development community for collaborative engagement
Highlights
Participating ASEAN member countries in this summit were Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR,
Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam. On sidelines of this summit, an exhibition
to showcase best Indian Innovative Technologies, with potential implementation in ASEAN region was
also organized. Besides this summit also provided platform for B2G meetings i.e. one to one meeting with
ASEAN delegation of ministers, advisors, and other dignitaries.
Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
ASEAN is regional intergovernmental organisation comprising 10 Southeast Asian countries, which
promotes intergovernmental cooperation and facilitates economic, political, security, military,
educational, and sociocultural integration. 10-member ASEAN comprise of Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand,
Singapore, Philippines, Vietnam, Myanmar, Cambodia, Brunei and Laos. India is a full dialogue partner of

the ASEAN.
Government puts imports of gold dore in restricted category
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under Ministry of Commerce and Industry has put imports
of gold dore in restricted category. This means, now, importer needs a license to import this commodity.
Gold dore
It is semi-pure alloy of gold and silver which is refined for further purification. Proportions of silver and gold can vary
widely. It usually created at site of a mine and then transported to refinery for further purification. Refined gold bars
are manufactured from gold dore bar. India imports about 900 tonnes of gold year making it world’s second-biggest
gold consumer after China. The imports mainly take care of demand of the jewellery industry.
Wastage and value addition norms for gold religious idols

DGFT also has prescribed wastage and value addition norms for gold religious idols (only gods and
goddess) – both plain and studded, of eight carats and up to 24 carats. Under it, percentage of wastage for
plain gold idols will be 2.5%, while it will be 5% for studded idols. Similarly, percentage of value addition for
plain gold religious idols will be 10% and 14% in case of idols studded with colour gems stones. The
percentage for value addition in case of idols studded with diamonds will be 15%.
FSSAI launches Heart Attack Rewind Campaign for elimination of industrially produced trans-fat
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
PRAVEEN GAUTAM launched| media campaign “Heart Attack Rewind”,
| praveen.dda.20@gmail.com
calling for elimination of industrially produced trans-fat in the food supply. It will support FSSAI’s global
target of eliminating trans-fat in India by 2022, a year ahead of global target by World Health
Organization (WHO). It is in line with FSSAOI’s objective to get Freedom from ‘Trans Fat: India@75′.
Heart Attack Rewind Campaign
It first mass media campaign of its kind that will educate consumers about the harmful effects and its link
to cardiovascular diseases. It warns citizens about the health hazards of consuming trans-fat and offers
strategies to avoid them through healthier alternatives. The campaign was developed by experts at Vital
Strategies.
Background
Globally, trans-fat intake leads to more than 500,000 deaths from cardiovascular disease every year.
Trans-fat are made by adding hydrogen to liquid vegetable oils to make them more solid and to increase
shelf life of foods. In May 2018, WHO launched comprehensive plan to eliminate industrially produced
trans-fat from global food supply by 2023.
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
FSSAI is a nodal statutory agency responsible for protecting and promoting public health in India through
regulation and supervision of food safety. It was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act,
2006 and operates under aegis of Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
Growth rate of 8 infrastructure sectors slows down to 4.8% in October 2018
According to index of eight core industries released by Ministry of Commerce and Industry, growth rate
of eight infrastructure sectors slowed down to 4.8 per cent in October 2018. This was mainly due to
contraction in production of crude oil, natural gas and fertilizer. It had recorded growth rate of 5% in
October 2017. During April-October 2018-19, eight sectors recorded a growth rate of 5.4% against 3.5 per
cent in the same period last year.
Key Facts
In October 2018, fertiliser production dropped sharply by 11.5%, crude oil by 5% and natural gas by 0.9%
over the year-ago month. The production of coal, cement and electricity, on other hand, expanded in
month under review. The growth rate of refinery products declined to 1.3% in October as against 7.5% in
the same month last year. Similarly, steel sector growth too dipped to 2.2% against 8.6% in October 2017.
The growth rate of eight core sectors, however, is more than 4.3 per cent expansion in September 2018.
Index of Eight Core Industries (ICI)
It is monthly production volume index considered as lead indicator of monthly industrial performance. It
is calculated by using Laspeyre’s formula of weighted arithmetic mean of quantity relatives. It measures
collective and individual performance of production in selected eight core industries viz. Natural Gas,
Coal, Crude Oil, Fertilizers, Petroleum Refinery Products, Steel, Cement and Electricity.

It is compiled and released by Office of Economic Adviser (OEA), Department of Industrial Policy &
Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce & Industry. The eight infrastructure sectors, constitute 40.27%
of total index of industrial production (IIP). These eight core industries have impact on general economic
activities as well as industrial activities. (Base year for ICI is 2011-12).
Components and weightages covered in ICI
Petroleum Refinery production (weight: 28.04%): It includes total refinery production (in terms of
crude throughput).
Electricity generation (19.85%): It includes actual electricity generation of thermal, nuclear, hydro,
imports from Bhutan.
Steel production (17.92%): It includes production of alloy and non-alloy steel only.
Coal production (10.33%): It includes coal production excluding coking coal.
Crude Oil production (8.98%): It includes total crude oil production.
Natural Gas production (6.88%): It includes total natural gas production.
Cement production (5.37%): It includes production of large plants and mini lants.
Fertilizers production (2.63%): It includes production of Urea, Calcium Ammonium Nitrate (CAN),
Ammonium Sulphate (A/S), Diammonium Phosphate (DAP), Ammonium chloride (A/C), Complex
Grade Fertilizer and Single superphosphate (SSP).
India to Chair Kimberley Process Certification Scheme from January 2019

India will Chair Kimberley Process Certification Scheme (KPCS) from 1st January 2019. It was was handed
Chairmanship by the European Union during KPCS Plenary 2018, which was held in Brussels, Belgium.
India as KPCS Chair will be committed to
Commitments of India as KPCS Chair
Make KPCS stronger process in terms of inclusiveness, strengthened administration and
implementation.
Make KPCS more efficient in terms of delivery of what it promises, more transparent and
empathetic towards living standards of people who are dependent on production, trade and
manufacture of diamonds.
Support Artisanal & Small-Scale Mining (ASM) with capacity building, technical assistance and
education on valuation, differentiation between natural and lab-grown diamonds and importance of
legal and formal mining practices.
Kimberley Process
It is joint initiative of governments, industry and civil societies to stem flow of ‘conflict diamonds’, rough
diamonds used by rebel groups to finance wars against legitimate governments. It is also described in
United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolutions. India is one of the founding members of KPCS. At
present, KPCS has 54 members representing 81 countries including EU with 28 members.
KPCS came into effect from 1 January, 2003 through United Nations General Assembly (UNGA)
Resolution. It outlines the rules that govern trade in rough diamonds. It has evolved into effective
mechanism for stopping trade in conflict diamonds. It sets minimum requirements that each participant
must meet. In India, the scheme is administered through Department of Commerce under aegis of the
Union Commerce and Industry Ministry.
India and KPCS
India is founding member of KPCS. It is actively involved in KPCS activities to ensure that almost 99% of
diamond trade in world is conflict free. It is committed to maintaining KPCS as efficient and effective
process in order to ensure conflict diamond free status. It is also at forefront in addressing issue of
differentiation between Natural Diamonds and Lab Grown Diamonds and ensure responsible business in
this area.
India earlier had chaired Ad hoc Committee on Review and Reform (AHCRR). It had held one joint session
with Chairs of other Working Groups and 4 sessions with AHCRR committee members to discuss issue of
funding of Permanent Secretariat (PS), Multi-Donor Trust Fund (MDTF), peer review mechanism and
consolidation to the core document.

Conflict diamonds
Conflict diamonds or blood diamonds are the rough diamonds used by rebel movements in the third world countries
especially in Africa to finance (civil) wars with an aim to topple legitimate governments. The KPCS completely bans
import and export of rough diamonds without certification.
December 3, 2018
Blue Cross: Abhinav Bindra becomes first Indian to get highest shooting honour
Ace Indian shooter Abhinav Bindra (36) and still India’s only individual Olympic gold medallist was
awarded coveted International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF) Blue Cross. With this Bindra is the first
Indian to be awarded the Blue Cross. The award is conferred for outstanding contribution to sport of
shooting and honours distinguished members of the international shooting fraternity. Blue Cross is
highest recognition conferred by parent body of international shooting ISSF.
Abhinav Bindra
He has won Olympic gold medal (2008), World Championship gold (2006), 7 Commonwealth Games
medals and 3 Asian Games medals in shooting. He became first Indian to win individual Olympic gold
medal by winning the top prize in 10m Air Rifle event at 2008 Games held in Beijing, capital of China. He
was given Arjuna award in 2000, Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna in 2001 and Padma Bhushan in 2009. He
narrowly had missed out on second Olympic medal at 2016 Games in Rio de Janeiro, post which he
decided to retire from sport at the age of 33 to make way for next generation of Indian shooters.
International Day for the Abolition of Slavery: December 2
The International Day for the Abolition of Slavery is observed on December 2 every year with an objective
to raise awareness about slavery and its impact on the society. This day marks adaptation of resolution
‘Convention for the Suppression of the Traffic in Persons and of the Prostitution of Others’ by United
Nations (UN) General Assembly on 2 December 1949.The focus of this day is on eradicating contemporary
forms of slavery, such as trafficking in persons, sexual exploitation, forced marriage, worst forms of child
labour and forced recruitment of children for use in armed conflict.
Modern slavery
According to International Labour Organisation (ILO) more than 40 million people worldwide are victims
of modern slavery. There are 5.4 victims of modern slavery for every 1,000 people in the world. 1 in 4
victims of modern slavery are children. Though modern slavery is not defined in law, it is used as umbrella
term covering practices such as forced labour, forced marriage, human trafficking and debt bondage.
Thus, it can be referred as to situations of exploitation that person cannot refuse or leave because of
threats, violence, coercion, deception or abuse of power. ILO has adopted new legally binding Protocol
designed to strengthen global efforts to eliminate forced labour, which entered into force in November
2016.
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa to be chief guest at Republic Day celebrations 2019
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be chief guest at India’s 70th Republic Day celebrations on
26 January 2019. Mr Ramaphosa was invited to be chief guest by Prime Minister Narendra Modi when two
leaders met on sidelines of G20 summit in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The announcement comes month
after US President Donald Trump declined India’s invitation to be chief guest. The reason citied was
“scheduling constraints” of President.
Significacne of Republic Day
It honours date on which Constitution of India came into effect on 26 January 1950 replacing Government
of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India. Constitution was adopted by Indian Constituent
Assembly on 26 November 1949 and came into effect on 26 January 1950, completing the country’s
transition towards becoming an independent republic. 26 January was chosen as Republic day because it
was on this day in 1930 when Purna Swaraj (Declaration of Indian Independence) was proclaimed by
Indian National Congress (INC) at Lahore session 1929 as opposed to Dominion status offered by British
Regime.
Republic Day parade
On 26 January every year, Republic Day parade is held at Rajpath, New Delhi. It is largest and most
important of the parades in India. The parade showcases India’s defence capability and its cultural and

social heritage. It is conducted under control Union Defence Ministry

2018 Republic Day
For first time in history of Republic Day celebrations, 10 heads of state were chief guest at a time. They
were from Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), a regional grouping of 10 Southeast Asian
countries comprising of Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, Myanmar,
Cambodia, Laos and Brunei. The chief guest at India’s first Republic Day on January 26, 1950 was
President of Indonesia and since then five other Southeast Asian leaders have chief guests at Republic Day
parades.
Earlier Chief guests of Republic Day parades
2017- Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan (Crown prince of Abu Dhabi), 2016- Francois Hollande
(President of France), 2015-Barack Obama (US President), 2014- Shinzo Abe (Japanese Prime Minister),
2013-Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck (King of Bhutan), 2012-Yingluck Shinawatra (Then Prime
Minister of Thailand), 2011- Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono (Then President of Indonesia).
India, US Air Forces exercise Ex Cope India-2018 begins in West Bengal
Air Forces of India and US began their 12-day joint exercise “Ex Cope India-2018” in West Bengal. It is
fourth edition in series of bilateral joint exercise held by Air Forces of two nations conducted in India. This
year for first time exercise will be held at two Air Force bases in West Bengal’s Kalaikunda and Panagarh.
Key Facts
This edition of exercise is aimed at providing operational exposure to air force personnel of both countries
and undertake mutual exchange of best practices for enhancing operational capability. It will be focused
on enhancing US-Indian mutual cooperation and building on existing capabilities, aircrew tactics and
force employment. It will showcase US and India’s efforts and commitment to free and open Indo-Pacific
region. US Air Force is participating with 12 F15 C/D, 3 C-130. Indian Air Force (IAF) is participating with
Su-30 MKI, Jaguar, Mirage 2000, C-130J and AWACS aircraft.
Background
Cope India is series of international Air Force exercises between Indian Air Force (IAF) and United States
Air Force (USAF) conducted on and over Indian soil. The first such exercise was conducted at IAF air force
station in Gwalior from February 2004. The exercise included flight tests, practice and demonstrations as
well as lectures on subjects related to aviation. The exercise has evolved to incorporate subject matter
expert exchanges, air mobility training, airdrop training and large-force exercises, in addition to fighter-
training exercises. The exercise was repeated in 2005, 2006, 2009 and was last held in 2010.
Sunil Arora takes over as new Chief Election Commissioner of India
Sunil Arora assumed charge as 23rd Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) of India. He succeeded OP Rawat
who retired on 1 December 2018. He will have nearly two-and-a-half-year tenure as CEC and General
Election 2019 to 17th Lok Sabha will be conducted under his stewardship. Prior to assuming this, charge he
was serving as Election Commissioner in Election Commission of India (ECI) from September 2017.
Sunil Arora
Sunil Arora is retired IAS officer of1980-batch from Rajasthan cadre. He had retired in April 2016 as
Information and Broadcasting secretary. Prior to this, he was skill development secretary. He has also
worked in ministries and departments such as Finance, Textiles and Planning Commission and also has
served as CMD of Indian Airlines for five years. In his home state, he had served as principal secretary of
Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje from 2005 to 2008.
Election Commission of India (ECI)
It is permanent and independent constitutional body established directly by Constitution of India under
Article 324 to ensure fair and fair elections in the country. It is multi-member body and currently has
three members including Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) and two election commissioners (ECs). They
all are appointed by the President.
Service conditions and tenure of office CEC and ECs are determined by an act of parliament titled The
Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election Commissioners (Conditions of Service) Act, 1991. They
hold office for term of six years or until they attain age of 65 years, whichever is earlier.
CEC and ECs have equal power and receive equal salary, allowances and other perquisites, which are

similar to judge of Supreme Court. In case of difference of opinion amongst CEC and Election
Commissioner, matter is decided by Commission by majority.
Government forms Rajiv Kumar Committee to look at selling of OIL, ONGC fields to private companies
Union Government has constituted six-member committee to look at selling as many as 149 small and
marginal oil and gas fields of state-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) and Oil India Ltd (OIL) to
private and foreign companies to boost domestic output.
The committee will be headed by NITI Aayog Vice Chairman Rajiv Kumar and includes Cabinet Secretary
P K Sinha, Oil Secretary M M Kutty, Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Chandra Garg, NITI Aayog CEO
Amitabh Kant and ONGC Chairman and Managing Director Shashi Shanker as members.
Background
Constitution of this committee is follow up of October 2018meeting called by Prime Minister Narendra
Modi to review domestic production profile of oil and gas and the roadmap for cutting import dependence
by 10% by 2022. In this meeting, Union Oil Ministry had made presentation showing that 149 smaller
fields of ONGC, OIL and other explorers accounted for just 5% of domestic crude oil production. It was
suggested at the meeting that these smaller fields could be given out to private and foreign firms, so that
ONGC could concentrate on big ones where it could rope in technology partners through production
enhancement contracts (PEC) or technical service arrangements. This was mainly large ONGC fields as
contribute to 95% of its production and leave out the rest for private firms.
COP24: 24th Conference of Parties to UNFCCC begins Katowice, Poland

The 24th meeting of Conference of Parties (COP-24) to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC) began at Katowice, Poland. COP-24 is expected to finalise guidelines for
implementation of Paris Agreement adopted in 2016. Delegates from nearly 200 nations are participation
in COP24. Indian delegation to this conference is led by Environment Minister, Dr Harsh Vardhan.
India-COP24
India expects that COP-24 will be able to frame guidelines, which are pragmatic and gives due
consideration to challenges and priorities of developing countries. India considers that outcome of
COP-24 should be balanced, inclusive, and consistent with principles and provisions of Convention and its
Paris Agreement.
India strongly supports objective of Paris Agreement to strengthen global response to threat of climate
change by keeping global temperature rise well below 2 degrees Celsius from pre- industrial revolution
period. India considers it important as it is linked to issue of poverty eradication.
India will highlight its concern for climate change and reaffirm its commitments to finalisation of Paris
Agreement Work Programme. This agreement also focuses on developing countries need to adapt to
adverse impacts of climate change, in manner that it does not put additional burden on them.
India will be setting up pavilion to create awareness about India’s positive climate actions in various
sectors of economy. The theme of Pavilion is ‘One World One Sun One Grid’ as highlighted by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi during first assembly of International Solar Alliance (ISA) in October 2018.
UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change)
It is international environmental treaty negotiated at Earth Summit in Rio de Janeiro in 1992 and entered
into force in 1994. It has near universal membership as it has 196 countries and European Union (EU) as its
members. It is parent treaty of the 1997 Kyoto Protocol which was ratified by 192 of the UNFCCC Parties.
The ultimate objective of both treaties is to stabilize greenhouse gas (GHGs) concentrations in atmosphere
at a level that will prevent dangerous human interference with the climate system.
Conference of Parties (COP)
COP is the supreme decision-making body of United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC). All States that are Parties to UNFCCC are represented at COP. At COP, all parties review
implementation of Convention and take decisions necessary to promote the effective implementation of
Convention.
India to host G20 Summit in 2022
India will host G20 Summit In 2022, when it celebrates its 75th year of Independence. It was announced by
Prime Minister Narendra Modi during ongoing G20 meet of international grouping in Buenos Aires,

capital of Argentina. This comes after Italy accepted India’s formal request to host this summit in 2021 as
earlier it was going to host it in 2022. During the Buenos Aires G20 meet, India presented a nine-point
agenda to the G20 countries calling for strong and active cooperation among them to comprehensively
deal with fugitive economic offenders.
G20
It is premier forum for international economic cooperation and decision-making for governments and
central bank governors from 20 major economies to focus on economic issues and other important
development challenges.
It comprises of total 19 countries plus European Union (EU), representing 85% of global GDP, 80% of
international trade, 65% of world’s population. Its members include Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Canada,
China, India, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Turkey,
South Africa, UK, US and EU.
It was started in 1999 as meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors in the aftermath of the
South-east Asian (Tiger economies) financial crisis. It was established for studying, reviewing, and
promoting high-level discussion of policy issues pertaining to the promotion of international financial
stability.
In 2008, the first G20 Leaders’ Summit was held in Washington DC, US. Prior to this, it was merely forum
for meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors. The group has played key role in
responding to the global financial crisis.
Train 18: India’s first engine-less train becomes country’s fastest train
India’s first indigenously designed locomotive-less (engine less) train known as Train 18, breached the 180
kmph speed limit during test run in Kota-Sawai Madhopur section. When this train is made operational, it
will become the country’s fastest train. It is touted as next generation Shatabdi Express and will connect
metros with other important cities.
Background
Train 18 was rolled out in October 2018 at Chennai’s Integral Coach Factory (ICF). Earlier in November
2018, Research Designs and Standards Organisation (RDSO) had announced its trial run successfully.
During this trail on tracks in Moradabad division of Northern Railway, this train had ran up to 115 km per
hour. The trials proved that train has defined track geometry parameters, curved alignments of specific
radius and station yard zones. Major trials of this train are now over with just some more remaining. Once
Train 18 becomes operational, it will commence its commercial operations from January 2019.
Train 18
It is capable of touching 200 kmph provided the rest of Indian Railways’ system such as tracks and signals
permit. It will replacing current 30-year-old Shatabdi Express – a day train. Thus it is touted as next
generation Shatabdi Express. It will be first long-distance train without separate locomotive (engine).
It has been indigenously developed by Chennai-based Integral Coach Factory (ICF) in just short time span
of 18 months. It took investment of nearly Rs 100 crore to build this prototype and subsequent bulk
production will bring down the cost. Thus, it will be cheaper compared to imported engine less train.
With 16 coaches, it will has same passenger carrying capacity as that of Shatabdi Express. It has
aerodynamically designed driver cabins at both ends for quicker turn-around at destinations. It sports
advanced regenerative braking system which saves power.
It is fully air-conditioned and offers better passenger comfort and safety, as all equipment are fixed under
carriage, so that more space is available on board. It has soft lighting, automatic doors, footsteps and GPS-
based Passenger Information System (PIS).
It also has onboard Wi-Fi and infotainment, and modular toilets with bio-vacuum systems. Footstep in
coach’s doorway in this train slides outward when train stops at station, enabling passengers to board or
deboard safely with comfort.

December 4, 2018
International Day of Persons with Disabilities: December 3
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed every year on December 3 to promote the
rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development.
The 2018 theme for this day is “Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and
equality”. It focuses on empowering persons with disabilities for an inclusive, equitable and sustainable
development as part of 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. 2030 Agenda for Sustainable

Development Goals (SDGs) pledges to “leave no one behind”.

Background
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities was instituted by United Nations General Assembly
(UNGA) after it had passed a resolution 47/3 in 1992. Since then it is observed annually and originally was
called as International Day of Disabled Persons. UN estimates that around one billion people are living
with disabilities across the world and they are facing barriers of inclusion in many key aspects of society.
Objective of this day
It aims to promote an understanding of disability issues and mobilize support for the dignity, rights and
well-being of persons with disabilities. It also seeks to increase awareness of situation of persons with
disabilities in every aspect of political, social, economic and cultural life.
47th Navy Day Navy day Observed
Indian Navy Day is observed annually on 4 December to celebrate magnificence, achievements and role of
naval force of the country. This year it was 47th Navy Day.
Why Navy Day is celebrated?
It commemorates launch of Operation Trident by Indian Navy against Pakistan on 4th December, 1971.
During 1971 India-Pakistan war, Indian Navy had played significant role in bombing of Karachi harbour,
the stronghold of Pakistani Navy. In this attack, Indian Navy sank four Pakistani vessels and ravaged
Karachi harbour fuel fields. In this operation,
PRAVEEN three missile boats
GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com | of Indian Navy, INS Nirghat, INS Nipat
and INS Veer had played pivotal role in this mission. Operation Trident had also resulted in first use of
anti-ship missiles in the Arabian Sea region.
Indian Navy
It is marine branch of Indian Armed Forces and is led by President of India as Commander-in-Chief. It is
one of most potent maritime forces in the world and the most lethal in Indian Ocean. It is entrusted
with duty of security of the country’s maritime boundaries. Currently, 67,228 soldiers/employees are
employed in Indian Navy. The motto of the Indian Navy is “शं नो वरुणः (Sham No Varunaḥ), it means
may lord of Water be auspicious unto us. At present, the Chief of the Indian Navy is Admiral Sunil Lamba.
As of March 2018, Indian Navy has Aircraft Carrier, 1 Amphibious Transport Dock, 8 Landing Ship Tanks,
11 Destroyer, 13 Frigates, 1 Nuclear Power Powered Submarine, 1 Ballistic Missile Submarine, 14
Traditional Submarines, 22 Corvette, 4 Fleet Tanker And there are many other ships.
The roots of Indian Navy dates back to 1612 AD when Great Maratha ruler Chatrapati Shivaji had formed navy in his
forces. So he is called the father of the Indian Navy.
Government inks $85 Million Loan Agreement with ADB for Odisha Skill Development Project
Union Government (Ministry of Finance) and Asian Development Bank (ADB) has signed $85 million loan
agreement for Odisha Skill Development Project. It aims to improve the skill development eco-system in
Odisha and establish World Skill Center (WSC), an advanced skill training center in state capital
Bhubaneswar.
Significance of project
It will improve quality of State’s TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programs by
making them relevant to industry and demand driven. It will impart advanced occupation-ready skills
training aligned with international standards.
It will also complement efforts to target the employment needs of the emerging sectors in India and
globally. It will engage Institute of Technical Education Services (ITEES), Singapore to support Odisha
Skill Development Authority in setting-up and operationalizing WSC.
This centre will offer internationally bench marked advanced training programs for the working age
population of Odisha. It will deliver eight training courses for 13,000 full-time students, provide training
for 5,000 teachers and train 1,000 assessors.
The project will help over 150,000 people learn skills in priority sectors, including manufacturing,
construction and services for formal employment. It will improve overall eco-system of skill development
in Odisha by providing integrated services through entrepreneurship incubation center, career counseling
and placement center, curriculum design and development center and education technology deployment

center.
These important functions of WSC will support network of Government ITIs and develop skills and
capacity of polytechnics, college of engineering, and other private skilling centers. ADB will also
administer $2 million technical assistance grant from Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction, financed by
Japanese Government that will support capacity development activities under the project
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
ADB is a regional development bank based out of Asia. It aims to promote social and economic
development in Asia by achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific,
while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. It was established in December 1966. It is
headquartered at Ortigas Centre in Manila, Philippines. It has total 67 members, of which 48 are from
within Asia and the Pacific and 19 outside.
SHINYUU Maitri 18: First India, Japan air exercise begins in Agra
The first bilateral air exercise SHINYUU Maitri-18 between Japanese Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) and
Indian Air Force (IAF) began at Air Force Station Agra. The theme of this exercise is joint
Mobility/Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) on Transport aircraft.
SHINYUU Maitri-18
The focus of the exercise is set for IAF and JASDF crews to undertake Joint Mobility/ HADR operations.
IAF and JASDF will also practice display ofPRAVEEN
heavy loading/off
GAUTAM loading
| praveen.dda.20@gmail.com | during this exercise. In this exercise,
JASDF will be participating with C2 aircraft along with aircrew and observers. IAF is participating with
C-17 and An-32 aircraft with aircrew and observers.
UGC directs universities to observe December 7 as Armed Forces Flag Day
University Grants Commission (UGC) has directed all universities across country to observe December 7
as Armed Forces Flag Day to commemorate supreme sacrifices made by country’s soldiers during
conflicts. It also directed universities to organise functions or hold talks in the colleges or institutes to
generate awareness on the issue among the students.
Significance
As part of observation of Armed Forces Flag Day, universities must acknowledge sacrifices made by
valiant armed forces personnel for protecting sovereignty and territorial integrity of country and
securing lives against threats of terrorism and insurgency and against natural calamities.
Indian Armed Forces Flag Day
It is observed every year on December 7 since 1949 to honour soldiers, airmen and sailors of the country.
It serves as an important occasion to remind nation of its obligation to look after veterans, disabled
soldiers, war widows and dependents of those who have sacrificed their lives for honour, safety,and
integrity of the motherland.
University Grants Commission (UGC)
UGC is statutory body set up by Union government in accordance to UGC Act 1956. It functions under
Ministry of Human Resource Development. It is mandated to initiate important decisions and dialogues
which have important bearing on the entire student population of the country. The three primary
functions of UGC include overseeing distribution of grants to universities and colleges in India, providing
scholarships and fellowships to beneficiaries and monitoring conformity to its regulations by universities
and colleges.
Qatar to leave OPEC from January 2019
Qatar has announced its withdrawal from Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) from
January 2019 and focus more on the production of natural gas. It makes Qatar first Gulf country to leave
OPEC bloc of oil-producing countries led by Saudi Arabia.
Qatar has been member of OPEC since 1961 and its decision to pull out after more than five decades comes
at turbulent time in Gulf politics. It is under boycott from its neighbouring gulf allies including Saudi
Arabia for 18 months (since August 2017).
Key Facts
Qatar is the world’s largest exporter of liquified natural gas (LPG) and 17th largest producer of crude oil
(around 600,000 barrels per day). It also only holds around 2% of the world’s global oil reserves. The
withdrawal decision reflects Qatar’s desire to focus its efforts on plans to develop and increase its natural

gas production from 77 million tonnes per year to 110 million tonnes in the coming years. Being part of
OPEC its oil production was steady with limited prospects for increases. Since 2013, amount of oil Qatar
produced has steadily declined from about 728,000 barrels per day (2013) to about 607,000 barrels per day
(2017), or just under 2% of OPEC’s total output.
Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC)
OPEC is an intergovernmental organization (or cartel) of 15 oil-exporting developing nations that
coordinates and unifies the petroleum policies of its member countries. It was established in 1960 in
Baghdad, Iraq by the first five members. Its headquarters are in Vienna, Austria.
Its mission is to coordinate and unify petroleum policies of its member countries and ensure stabilization
of oil markets, in order to secure an efficient, economic and regular supply of petroleum to consumers,
steady income to producers and fair return on capital for those investing in petroleum industry.
OPEC member countries accounted for an estimated 43% of global oil production and 73% of the “proven”
world’s oil reserves. Two-thirds of OPEC’s oil production and reserves are in its six Middle Eastern (west
Asian) countries that surround the oil-rich Persian Gulf.
OPEC Members
Asia and Middle East: Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia (de facto leader of OPEC), Kuwait, United Arab
Emirates and Qatar (to withdraw from January 2019)
Africa: Algeria, Angola, Libya, Congo Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea and Gabon
South/Latin America: Ecuador and Venezuela
Indian Navy to conduct TROPEX Exercise to test robustness of coastal security apparatus
Indian Navy will conduct its flagship large-scale coastal defence exercise Theatre Level Operational
Readiness Exercise (TROPEX) from January to March 2019 to test robustness of entire coastal security
apparatus. As part of TROPEX, Indian Navy will conduct large-scale coastal defence exercise ‘Exercise Sea
Vigil’. This exercise will involve all stake holders across mainland and island territories. It will see
participation of all operational ships, submarines and aircraft as well as units of Indian coast guards (ICG),
Indian Army and Indian Air Force (IAF).
Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise (TROPEX)
It is yearly exercise that takes place on Western Seaboard. It is conducted to test various aspects of not
only joint combat capabilities but also to test war capabilities of three services in war like situation. This
exercise helps in validating operational warfighting concepts and provides very important lessons that
will help services to further sharpen their skills. It will also seeks to strengthen interoperability and joint
operations in complex conflict situation. It provides opportunity to test combat capability of the Indian
Navy, Indian Army, IAF and ICG. In the current security scenario and with India’s increased role inIndian
Ocean Region (IOR) and Indo-Pacific, TROPEX assumes great significance.
TROPEX 2019
It will see participation of over 45 ships from both Western and Eastern Naval Commands of Indian Navy,
including aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, submarines including nuclear powered Chakra, naval aircraft
MiG-29K, helicopters as well as ships from Indian Coast Guard. Since its a tri-service exercise, troops from
Indian Army and fighter aircraft from Indian Air Force including SU-30 MKI, Jaguars and AWACs will also
participate.
World Bank unveils US $200 billion in climate action investment for 2021-25
World Bank has unveiled US $200 billion in climate action investment for 2021 to 2025 to fight impact of
climate change. The move coincides with Conference of Parties-24 (COP24) United Nations Climate
Summit in Katowice, Poland.
The breakdown of US $200 billion will comprise approximately 100 billion in direct finance from World
Bank. Around one-third of remaining funding will come from two World Bank Group agencies and rest
will be private capital mobilised by the World Bank Group.
Comment
This US $200 billion in climate action investment, amounts to World Bank’s doubling of its current five-
year funding. It also represents significantly ramped up ambition of World Bank to tackle climate change
and sends an important signal to the wider global community to do the same. This amounts is also double

of World Bank’s earlier commitment for ts current five-year funding.

World Bank
It is international financial institution that provides loans to countries of the world for capital projects. Its
official goal is reduction of poverty by providing loans to developing countries for capital programmes. It
is one of five institutions created at Breton Woods Conference in 1944. It is headquarter is situated at
Washington DC, US.
World Bank comprises two institutions: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
(IBRD), and the International Development Association (IDA). It is component of World Bank Group, which
also includes three more subsidiary organisations viz. International Finance Corporation (IFC),
Multilateral Investment Guarantee Agency (MIGA), and International Centre for Settlement of Investment
Disputes (ICSID). World Bank is part of United Nations system, but its governance structure is different.
December 5, 2018
Gautam Gambhir announces retirement from cricket
Indian cricketer Gautam Gambhir has announced his retirement from all formats of cricket. In his
cricketing career, Gautam Gambhir has played total 58 Test matches, 147 ODIs and 37 T20 matches for
India. He had played his last international one-day match against England in Rajkot in 2016. He will play
his last match for Delhi in Ranji Trophy against Andhra Pradesh on 6 December, 2019.
Gautam Gambhir PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
He was born on October 14, 1981 in New Delhi. In domestic cricket, he played cricket for Delhi. In IPL, he
played cricket for Kolkata Knight Riders and Delhi Daredevils. He started his Test Cricket career against
Australia on 3 November 2004. He scored 4,154 runs in 58 Tests. He had started ODI career against
Bangladesh on April 11, 2003 and he scored 5,238 runs in 147 ODI. He started the International T-Twenty
Career against Scotland on 13 September 2007.
Croatia’s Luka Modric wins Men’s Ballon d’Or award 2018
Croatia’s midfielder Luca Modrich (33) has won prestigious honor of football, Ballon d’Or. He was
rewarded for his key role in Croatia’s historic run to FIFA World Cup final (defeated by France) and his
club Real Madrid’s third straight Champions League trophy. With this, he ended the tenure of Lionel Messi
and Cristiano Ronaldo for almost decade. Messi and Ronaldo have won this award since 2008. Cristiano
Ronaldo remained second in run of ballon d’or race this year. France’s young footballer Celine Mbapepe
was placed fourth followed by Lionel Messi of Argentina at the fifth place, Mohamed Saleh of Egypt and
Liverpool at sixth place, Rafael Varan at seventh place.
Women’s Ballon d’Or
Norway’s Ada Hegerberg (23) wins Women’s Ballon d’Or. It was inaugural edition of Women’s Ballon d’Or.
She is three-time Women’s Champions League winner with French side Lyon and scored tournament-
record 15 times last season.
FIFA Ballon d’Or Award
FIFA Ballon d’Or Award is annual football association award given by FIFA to the male player who has
performed the best in previous calendar year. It was instituted in 2010 after France Football’s Ballon d’Or
and the men’s FIFA World Player of the Year award were merged. It is awarded to male player, based upon
highest votes secured by him from national team coaches and captains, as well as journalists from around
world. Women’s Ballon d’Or was established in 2018.
PRASAD Scheme: Centre includes Gangotri, Yamunotri in Uttarakhand, Amarkantak in MP and Parasnath
in Jharkhand
Union Government has included Gangotri and Yamunotri in Uttrarakhand, Amarkantak in Madhya
Pradesh and Parasnath in Jharkhand under Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual, Heritage
Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) to develop pilgrimage and heritage destinations in the country. With the
new additions, the number of sites under PRASAD has now reached to 41 in 25 states.
PRASAD Scheme
It was launched in 2014-15 by Union Ministry of Tourism. It aims at integrated development of pilgrimage
destinations in planned, prioritised and sustainable manner to provide complete religious tourism
experience. It focuses on the development and beautification of the identified pilgrimage destinations.
Objectives

Harness pilgrimage tourism for its direct and multiplier effect upon employment generation and
economic development.
Enhance tourist attractiveness in sustainable manner by developing world class infrastructure in
the religious destinations.
It also seeks to promote local art, culture, handicraft, cuisine, etc.
Infrastructure development under this scheme includes
Development of entry points (road, rail and water transport), last mile connectivity, basic tourism
facilities like Information/interpretation centers, ATM/ money exchange.
Development of eco-friendly modes of transport, lighting and illumination with renewable energy
sources, drinking water, parking, toilets, waiting rooms, first aid centers, craft
bazars/haats/souvenir shops/cafeteria, rain shelters, telecom facilities, internet connectivity etc.
Funding
Under it, Ministry of Tourism provides Central Financial Assistance (CFA) to State Governments for
promoting tourism at identified destinations. For components within public funding under this scheme,
Central Government will provide 100% fund. For improved sustainability of project, it also seeks to involve
Public Private Partnership (PPP) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) as well.
Over 100 new exoplanets discovered using NASA’s Kepler Space telescope
Scientists have discovered cache over 100 new exoplanets using data from NASA’s Kepler Space telescope
(KST) as well as ground-based observatories. Exoplanet also called as extrasolar planet, is planet that
orbits star other than Sun. The discovery of 100 new exoplanets is expected to play large role in
developing research field of exoplanets and life in universe.
Kepler Space Telescope
KST is an unmanned space observatory launched in 2009 by National Aeronautics and Space
Administration (NASA). It was tasked with determining how many Earth-like planets occur throughout
the Milky Way galaxy.
It was designed for statistical mission and not to probe into environmental conditions of planets that exist
in so-called Goldilocks zone (Habitable zone) of their stars. It finds planets by using transit method. It is
detection of tiny brightness dips caused by planet after it crosses its host star’s face from spacecraft’s
perspective. Transit method technique requires extremely precise pointing of spacecraft.
KST had experienced mechanical trouble in 2013, which led to successor mission called K2. Astronomers
around the world are competing to confirm exoplanets suggested by K2 data. NASA had retired KST in
November 2018 after it ran out of fuel needed for further science operations. In its mission lifespan of
nine-and-a-half year, it had discovered over 2,600 intriguing exoplanets from outside our solar system
some of which may harbour life.
Patents granted by India up by 50% in 2017: WIPO
According to World Intellectual Property Indicators 2018 report released by United Nation’s World
Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), number of patents granted by India shot up by 50% in 2017.
The patents granted by India increased from 8,248 in 2016 to 12,387 in 2017, thus keeping up trend of
steep increases.
Key Facts
Patents granted in 2017 in India were more than double 6,022 patents granted in 2015. Of the patents
granted in 2017, 1,712 went to entities and individuals based in India, and 10,675 to foreigners. The steep
increase in number was driven by patents granted to foreigners, which accounted for 85% of total
increase. The number of patents given to domestic entities also has shown increasing trend.
In 2016, 1,115 went to domestic individuals or entities and 7,133 to foreigners and in 2015, 822 were granted
to applicants in India and 5,200 to foreigners. Globally, 1.4 million patents were granted in 2017. China led
world with 4,20,144 granted patents and was followed by US with 3,18,829.
World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO)
It is the global body for promotion and protection of intellectual property rights (IPR). It is one of the 15
specialized agencies of United Nations (UN). It was established in 1967 and is headquartered in Geneva,
Switzerland. Its mandate is to encourage creative activity, to promote the protection of intellectual

property throughout the world.

It encourages and provides assistance to all its 188 member countries in formulating national IPR policy
however it does not dictate or prescribe any mandatory measures. India is a member of WIPO and party to
several treaties administered by WIPO.
Odisha’s Kandhamal Haldi to get GI tag
Odisha’s Kandhamal Haldi (turmeric) will soon get Geographical Indications (GI) tag. It is a few steps away
from receiving this tag. Its registration was moved by Kandhamal Apex Spices Association for Marketing
and was accepted under sub-section (1) of Section 13 of Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration
and Protection) Act, 1999. Kandhamal Haldi is famous for its healing properties. It is main cash crop of
tribal people in Kandhamal. Apart from domestic use, it is also used for cosmetic and medicinal purposes.
Geographical Indication (GI)
GI tag is name or sign used on certain products which correspond to specific geographical location or
origin. It is used for agricultural, natural and manufactured goods having special quality and established
reputation. The purpose of GI tag enables stakeholders to authenticate their production while earning a
premium and derive an improved livelihood.
The goods and products having tag are recognised for their origin, quality and reputation and gives it
required edge in global market. It also ensures that none can use their name, giving them exclusivity. The
registration of GI is valid for 10 years afterPRAVEEN
which it needs to be renewed. Violation of GI tags is punishable
GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
offence under law.

GI is covered as element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under Paris Convention for Protection of
Industrial Property. At international level, GI is governed by WTO’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects
of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). In India, GI tag Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration
and Protection Act), 1999 governs it. This Act is administered by Controller General of Patents, Designs
and Trade Marks, who is also Registrar of Geographical Indications and is based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
SpaceX successfully launches 64 small satellites using reusable Falcon 9 rocket
Elon Musk-led SpaceX has successfully launched 64 small satellites into low Earth orbit onboard of its
reusable and preflown Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Air Force Base in California. This has set new
record in United States of launching satellites in single go. It was third voyage of Falcon 9 rocket, marking
another milestone in SpaceX’s cost-cutting reusable rocket technology.
About Satellites
The 64 small satellites included 49 CubeSats and 15 micro-satellites belonging to 34 different clients
including public, private and university sources from 17 different countries across the world including
South Korea, France and Kazakhstan. The microsatellites weighed few dozen kilograms and CubeSats
weighed even smaller. Among launched satellites, one was sculpture called “Orbital Reflector” by artist
Trevor Paglen, sent by Nevada Museum of Art and it was not scientific missions.
Note
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) holds record for the most satellite launch in single flight. It had launched
104 satellites in one go using Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C37) rocket.
Space X
It is private US space agency. It was founded by Elon Musk on May 6, 2002 who is its current CEO of Space
X. Its main purpose for its establishment was to reduce cost of space transport and establish human
habitation on Mars house. Space X has developed series of Falcon Rockets. To reduce cost of internal
transport, the space company has created re-usable rockets. Majority of these rockets are also used in
other launches.
NASA’s spacecraft OSIRIS-REx arrives at its targeted asteroid Bennu after 2-year journey
NASA’s first-ever OSIRIS-REx mission designed to visit asteroid and return sample of its dust back to
Earth reached its destination, Bennu, two years after its launch. It will use its suite of five science
instruments to study asteroid for the next year and a half.
OSIRIS-Rex
OSIRIS-Rex stands for Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith

Explorer. It was launched in September 2016 for studying 101955 Bennu, a carbonaceous asteroid. It is
NASA’s first asteroid sampling mission i.e. it will survey surface, collect sample and deliver it safely back
to Earth. It will regularly observe area around the asteroid to search for dust plumes and natural satellites
and study its light and spectral properties. It will return to Earth after collecting some of its gravels by
2023. It will capture 60 grams dirt and debris from surface of asteroid using its robotic arm without
landing i.e. by hovering like hummingbird stirred up by nitrogen gas thrusters and then to Earth for
detailed analysis of the collected samples.
Bennu
Bennu is near-Earth carbonaceous asteroid about the size of a small mountain in the Apollo group. It was
discovered in September 1999 by the LINEAR Project. It orbits close to Earth’s path around the Sun. It is
one of the oldest asteroids known to NASA. It is carbon-rich asteroid and believed to be the type of
asteroids that may have chemical building blocks of life, along with lots of water. So, analysis of returned
sample from it could help to reveal key insights about early solar system and the origin of life on Earth. It
is potentially hazardous asteroid and there is very slight chance it could strike into Earth in the late 22nd
century.
Special Note
NASA’s OSIRIS-REx is not world’s first asteroid sampling
PRAVEEN mission. This
GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com | distinction is held by Japanese space agency
JAXA. It had proved world’s first sample collection from asteroid after its Hayabusa spacecraft crash-landed into the
surface of its target asteroid and managed to return a few micrograms of material in 2010.
December 6, 2018
World Soil Day observed on December 5
World Soil Day is celebrated every year on 5th of December by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
of United Nations. Observance of this day aims to communicate messages on importance of soil quality for
food security, healthy ecosystems and human well-being. It also advocates for sustainable management of
soil resources. The Theme for year 2018 is ‘Be the Solution to Soil Pollution’. It aims to raise awareness and
call people to stop soil pollution.
Importance of soil
Soil is the upper layer of earth. It is mixture of organic and inorganic matter, in which plants grow. It is a
finite natural resource. On a human time-scale it is non-renewable. According to FAO, soil holds three
times as much carbon as atmosphere and can help to meet challenges of a changing climate. 95% of our
food comes from soil and 33% of global soils are already degraded.
Background
International Union of Soil Sciences (IUSS) had adopted resolution proposing 5th of December as World
Soil Day in 2002 to celebrate importance of soil as critical component of natural system and as vital
contributor to human wellbeing. Later in June 2013 FAO Conference unanimously endorsed World Soil
Day and requested official adoption at 68th UN General Assembly. In December 2013, 68th UNGA declared
5th of December as the World Soil Day.
80th Session of Policy Commission Meeting of World Customs Organisation held in Mumbai
The 80th Session of Policy Commission of World Customs Organization (WCO) was held Mumbai, capital
of Maharashtra. It is being organized by WCO and hosted by Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
(CBIC), under Union Finance Minister.
Key Facts
Secretary General, WCO, other top officials and customs heads from more than 30 countries had
participated in this conference for discussion on various matters related to customs. Key discussion were
on issues related trade facilitation, controlling illicit financial flow, performance measurement, challenges
of small island economies. Hosting of Policy Commission session will give global presence and leadership
role to India in area of customs procedures. It will also give a boost to India’s thrust in facilitating trade.
World Customs Organisation (WCO)
It is independent intergovernmental body whose mission is to enhance effectiveness and efficiency of
Customs administrations. It was established in 1952 as Customs Co-operation Council (CCC). It is
headquartered in Brussels, Belgium. More than 180 countries are its members including India.

It is the only international organization with competence in Customs matters and defines global
standards and procedures for customs clearances at border and their implementation. It is considered as
voice of international Customs community.
It aims to enhance efficiency and effectiveness of member customs administrations and assist them to
contribute successfully to national development goals, particularly revenue collection, national security,
trade facilitation, community protection, and collection of trade statistics.
India is member of WCO since 1971 and has been participating actively in its various activities. It is part of
Asia Pacific region having 33 countries, one of 6 regions. From 1st July 2018, India has taken over as the
Vice-Chair of the Asia Pacific region for two years.
Organistaional Structure
WCO’s governing body – is Council which relies on competence and skills of WCO Secretariat and range
of technical and advisory committees to accomplish its mission. Secretariat comprises over 100
international officials, technical experts and support staff of some nationalities. WCO has divided its
membership into six regions whereby each region is represented by elected vice-chairperson to WCO
Council.
Functions
It offers range of Conventions and other international instruments, as well as technical assistance
and training services to its members.

It also actively supports its members in their endeavours to modernize and build capacity within
their national Customs administrations.
It also plays vital role in stimulating growth of legitimate international trade and combats
fraudulent activities.
It also promotes emergence of honest, transparent and predictable Customs environment, thus
directly contributing to economic and social well-being of its members.
RBI to introduce Ombudsman Scheme for Digital Transactions
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced to introduce ‘Ombudsman Scheme for Digital Transactions’ to
provide cost-free mechanism to redress grievances of customers related to digital transactions. The
scheme will be notified by end of January 2019. It will cover services provided by entities falling under
RBI’s regulatory jurisdiction. The scheme is being implemented taking into consideration rise in digital
mode for financial transactions which is gaining traction in the country. There is emerging need for
dedicated, cost-free and expeditious grievance redressal mechanism for strengthening consumer
confidence in this channel.
Framework for limiting customer liability
RBI has also decided to come out with framework for limiting customer liability in respect of unauthorised
electronic payment transactions involving prepaid payment instruments (PPI). It already has issued
instructions on limiting customer liability in respect of unauthorised electronic transactions involving
banks and credit card issuing non-banking financial companies (NBFCs). This framework will bring all
customers up to same level with regard to electronic transactions made by them and extend benefit of
limiting customer liability for unauthorised electronic transactions involving PPIs issued by other entities
not covered by extant guidelines. The guidelines will be issued by end of December 2018.
Repo rate keeps unchanged at 6.5%
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in its fifth bimonthly monetary policy review for financial year 2018-19 has
decided to maintain status quo in policy rates by keeping repo rate unchanged at 6.5%. The reverse repo
rate has also been maintained at 6.25%. This decision was taken by RBI’s six member Monetary Policy
Committee (MPC) headed by RBI Governor Urjit Patel.
Key Facts
The decision of MPC is consistent with stance of calibrated tightening of monetary policy in consonance
with objective of achievingmedium-term target for consumer price index (CPI) inflation of 4% within band
of +/- 2 per cent, while supporting growth. It has projected retail inflation projection lowered in the range
of 2.7-3.2% for 2nd half of 2018-19; 3.8-4.2% in first half of 2019-20. It has forecasted GDP growth for

2018-19 at 7.4% and 7.5% for first half of 2019-20.

Policy Rates
Repo rate: It was unchanged at 6.5%. It is rate at which RBI lends to its clients generally against
government securities.
Reverse Repo Rate: It was unchanged at 6.25%. It is rate at which banks lend funds to RBI.
Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) Rate: It was unchanged at 6.75%. It is rate at which scheduled banks can
borrow funds overnight from RBI against government securities. It is very short term borrowing scheme
for scheduled banks.
Bank Rate: It was unchanged at 6.75%. It is rate charged by central bank for lending funds to commercial
banks. Higher bank rate will translate to higher lending rates by banks. It influences lending rates of
commercial banks.
Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR): It was unchanged at 4%. It is amount of funds that banks have to keep with RBI.
The RBI uses CRR to drain out excessive money from system.
Statutory Liquidity Ratio (SLR): It cut by 25 basis points to 19.25% from January 1, 2019. It is amount that
banks have to maintain a stipulated proportion of their net demand and time liabilities (NDTL) in form of
liquid assets like cash, gold and unencumbered securities, treasury bills, dated securities etc. It will be
reduced by 25 basis points every quarter until it reaches the 18% level.
GSAT-11: India’s heaviest satellite launched from French Guyana
Indian Space Research and Organisation (ISRO) has successfully launched India’s heaviest and most-
advanced communication satellite GSAT-11 into space. It was launched on board of Ariane 5 VA-246 rocket
from Kourou Launch Base, French Guiana.
Key Facts
GSAT-11 also called Big Bird has been indigenously developed by ISRO. It weigh 5854 kg making it
heaviest Indian-made equipment that has been put into the orbit. It will provide high data rate
connectivity to Indian mainland and islands users through 32 user beams in Ku-band and 8 hub beams in
Ka-band. It is three to six times more powerful than any other ISRO’s satellite. It will help provide
satellite-based internet to remote places where cable-based internet cannot reach. It will boost the
broadband connectivity to rural and inaccessible gram panchayats in the country under Bharat Net
Project, which is part of Digital India Programme.
24 poets and authors 2018 Sahitya Akademi Award

India’s national academy of letters Sahitya Academy has announced names of 24 poets and authors who
will be conferred the prestigious 2018 Sahitya Akademi Award in 24 different Indian languages. The award
has recognised premier works in 24 Indian languages that includes seven books of poetry, six novels, six

short stories, three of literary criticism and two of essays.

The awards will be presented at a roadshow function to be held on 29th January next year at New Delhi
duringFestival of Letters to be organised by Sahitya Akademi. The awardees were recommended by
distinguished jury members representing 24 languages and were approved by Executive Board under
chairmanship of Dr. Chandrashekhar Kambar who is President of Sahitya Akademi.
Awardees are
Poetry: Sananta Tanti (Assamese), Paresh Narendra Kamat (Konkani), S Ramesan Nair (Malayalam) and Dr
Rama Kant Shukla (Sanskrit), Dr. Mohanjit (Punjabi), Dr. Rajesh Kumar Vyas (Rajasthani) and Khiman U
Mulani (Sindhi).
Short stories: Sanjib Chattopadhyay (Bengali), Mushtaq Ahmed Mushtaq (Kashmiri), Prof Bina Thakur
(Maithili), Rituraj Basumatary (Bodo), Prof. Budhichandra Heisnamba (Manipuri) and Nath Upadhyay
Chapagain (Nepali).
Novel: Inderjeet Kesar (Dogri), Anees Salim (English), Chitra Mudgal (Hindi), Shyam Besra (Santali),
Ramkrishnan (Tamil) and Rahman Abbas (Urdu).
Literary Criticism: KG Nagarajappa (Kannada), Ma. Su. Patil (Marathi) and Prof. Dasarathi Das (Odia).
Essays: Prof. Sharifa Vijliwala (Gujarati) and Dr. Kolakaluri Enoch (Telugu).
Bhasha Salman 2017 and 2018 PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Sahitya Akademi also announced its Bhasha Salman for year 2017 and 2018. Yogendra Nath Sharma was
awarded for North zone; Gagendra Nath Das for Eastern zone; G Venkatasubbiah for South zone; and
Shailaja Bapat for Western zone.
Sahitya Akademi Awards
It is literary honour that is conferred annually on Indian writers for their outstanding works of literary
merit. It was established in 1954. It is conferred annually on writers of outstanding works in one of the
twenty-four major Indian languages (22 Scheduled Languages+ English and Rajasthani). The award
consists of a casket containing an engraved copper-plaque (designed by film-maker Satyajit Ray), a shawl
and cheque of Rs.1 Lakh.
SC approves Centre’s Witness Protection Scheme
Supreme Court has approved Witness Protection Scheme 2018 and directed Union and State
Governments to enforce the same. This scheme was framed by Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) in
response to PIL seeking protection for witnesses.
Key Facts
The apex court held that scheme will become law under Article 141/142 of Constitution till enactment of
parliamentary and state legislations on the subject. It also directed states/UTs to set up the vulnerable
witness deposition complexes (VWDCs) within period of 1 year (by the end of 2019). It also observed that
there is paramount need to have witness protection regime in statutory form. The main reasons for
establishing these VWDC is large percentage of acquittal in criminal cases is due to witnesses turning
hostile and giving false testimonies, mostly due to lack of protection for them and their families.
Witness Protection Scheme 2018
It has been formulated by Home Ministry on the inputs received from 18 States/UTs, five state legal
services authorities and open sources including civil society, three high courts as well as from police
personnel. It was finalised in consultation with National Legal Services Authority (NALSA).
It aims to ensure that investigation, prosecution and trial of criminal offences does not turn out to be
biased as witnesses are intimidated or frightened to give evidence without protection from violent or
other criminal recrimination.
Essential features
Identifying categories of threat perceptions
Preparation of Threat Analysis Report by the head of police
Confidentiality and preservation of records, recovery of expenses, etc.
Types of protection measures like ensuring that witness and accused do not come face to face
during investigation etc. protection of identity, change of identity, relocation of witness
Three types of witnesses categorises

Threat extends to life of witness or his family members during investigation, trial or thereafter.
Threat extends to safety, reputation or property of witness or his family members, during
investigation, trial.
Threat is moderate and extends to harassment of witness or his family member’s, reputation or
property during investigation, trial or thereafter.
Categorised witnesses under the scheme can file application for seeking protection order before
competent authority of concerned district where offence is committed. This competent authority will be
chaired by District and Sessions Judge. Head of police in the district will be its member and head of
prosecution in the district as its member secretary.
When this authority receives application, it has to call for Threat Analysis Report (TAR) from ACP/DSP in
charge of the concerned Police Sub-Division. The authority is also empowered to order protection
measures based on TAR such as identity protection, change of identity and relocation of witnesses.
December 7, 2018
India Water Impact Summit 2018 held in New Delhi
The India Water Impact Summit-2018 was held in New Delhi. It was jointly organized by National Mission
for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and Centre for Ganga River Basin Management and Studies (cGanga).
Key Facts
India Water Impact Summit is annual event where
PRAVEEN GAUTAM stakeholders
| praveen.dda.20@gmail.com | get together to discuss, debate and
develop model solutions for some of biggest water related problems in the country. The discussions this
year were on rejuvenation of Ganga River Basin. There was also multi-country dialogue on subject
showcasing of technological innovations, research, policy frameworks and funding models from India and
abroad.
Large number of Indian Central Government Ministries as well as all key decision makers responsible for
delivering rejuvenation of Ganga was also present at Summit. Nearly 200 domestic and international
participants from nearly 15 countries and more than 50 Central, State and Municipal Government
representatives participated in the summit.
There were also sessions on afforestation and biodiversity, urban river/water management plans, creating
global ecosystem for financing Ganga Rejuvenation Programme and tapping into global capital markets
for long term project finance.
The summit focused on three key aspects:
Spotlight on 5 states: Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Delhi and Bihar. Its objective was to
showcase efforts and works going on within the respective states.
Ganga Financing Forum: It was inaugural forum that brought number of institutions to common
knowledge, information and partnership platform. It brought together financial institutions and
investors interested in Namami Gange programmes.
Technology and Innovation: It was pilot/demonstration programme aimed at providing
opportunity to technology and innovation companies from around the world to showcase their
solutions for addressing problems prevalent in river basin.
World Bank assisted project SMART launched in Maharashtra
Maharashtra Government has launched World Bank assisted State of Maharashtra’s Agribusiness and
Rural Transformation (SMART) Project to transform rural Maharashtra. This project aims to revamp
agricultural value chains, with special focus on marginal farmers across 1,000 villages. This initiative is in
line with Union Government’s step towards doubling farmers’ income by 2022. The launch of project
which was followed by signing of 50 memorandum of understandings (MoUs) between big corporates and
farmers producer groups.
State of Maharashtra’s Agribusiness and Rural Transformation (SMART) Project
The objective of project is to create and support value chains in post-harvest segments of agriculture,
facilitate agribusiness investment, stimulate SMEs within the value chain. It will also support resilient
agriculture production systems, expand access to new and organised markets for producers and enhance
private sector participation in the agribusiness.

The project will be implemented in 10,000 villages of total 40,913 villages in states with objective to
achieve sustainable farming within the next three years. It will cover almost one-fourth of Maharashtra.
Its focus is on villages which are reeling under worst agriculture crisis compounded by lack of
infrastructure and assured value chains to channelise farm produce.
The project will be implemented in 10,000 villages comprising 10,000 gram panchayats which were
shortlisted by state government based on multiple parameters of socio-economic backwardness in terms
of development and growth.
Significance
The project is giant step towards transformation of rural economy and empowerment of farmers and also
sustainable agriculture through public-private partnership (PPP) model. It seeks to sure higher production
of crops and create robust market mechanism to enable farmers to reap higher remunerations for the
yield. It unites agriculture-oriented corporates and farmers by providing them common platform.
CCEA approves strategic sale of Rural Electrification Corporation
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given its in principle approval for strategic sale of
Central Government’s existing 52.63% of total paid up equity shareholding in Rural Electrification
Corporation (REC) to Power Finance Corporation (PFC) along with transfer of management control. Both
REC and PFC are Central Public Sector Enterprises under the Ministry of Power.
Significance PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
The acquisition intends to achieve integration across Power Chain, create economies of scale, obtain
better synergies and have enhanced capability to support energy access and energy efficiency by
improved capability to finance power sector. It may also allow for cheaper fund raising with increase in
bargaining power for combined entity.
Rural Electrification Corporation (REC)
It is public Infrastructure finance company in India’s power sector. It finances and promotes rural
electrification projects across India. It provides loans to Central/ State Sector Power Utilities, State
Electricity Boards, Rural Electric Cooperatives, NGOs and Private Power Developers. It was founded in
July 1969 and is headquartered in New Delhi.
Clean Sea-2018: Indian Coast Guard conducts Exercise at sea off Port Blair
Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has conducted Regional Level Marine Oil Pollution Response Exercise titled
‘Clean Sea– 2018’ at sea off Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar (A&B) Islands. The objective of exercise was to
ascertain preparedness of IGC, resource agencies and other stakeholders in responding to major oil spill in
line with provisions of National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOS-DCP). ICG ships Viswasth, Vijith,
Rajveer, Rajshri, 4 interceptor boats and its air assets Dornier and Chetak helicopters participated in the
exercise.
Need for exercise
Great Channel between Nicobar Islands and Northern Sumatra that leads into Malacca Straits is marine
drive of high seas. Almost 200 ships cross 160-km wide Straits daily making it among busiest sea routes of
world. Considering, high intensity of oil tanker traffic through this route, the area is highly vulnerable to
oil spills. So there is need for robust national system for oil spill response is critical.
Highlights of Clean Sea-2018
The exercise was planned to evaluate preparedness for Response Operations for any such oil pollution
incident in highly sensitive area of A&B islands. The exercise was conducted in two phases for
synchronizing support and cooperation provided by all stakeholders for combating oil spills in such
ecologically sensitive areas. The exercise saw participation of ICG Pollution Control Vessel and integration
of ICG Dornier/Chetak aircraft into Oil Spill Disaster Management System for aerial assessment and
delivery of Oil Spill Dispersant for mitigation of spilled oil.
Background
Indian Coast Guard (ICG) under Ministry of Defence is responsible for marine environment protection in
maritime zones of India and is coordinating authority for response to oil spills in Indian waters. It has
drawn up National Oil Spill Disaster Contingency Plan (NOS-DCP) and has established three pollution
response centres at Mumbai, Chennai and Port Blair.

Union Cabinet approves implementation of Shahpurkandi Dam on river Ravi in Punjab

Union Cabinet has approved implementation of Shahpurkandi Dam Project on river Ravi in Punjab. It also
has approved central assistance of Rs. 485.38 crore (for irrigation component) over five years period from
2019 to 2023. The project will be implemented by Punjab Government with central assistance. It will be
completed by June 2022.
Funding
The total cost of this project is Rs. 1973.53 crore (Irrigation component: 564.63 cr, Power component:
1408.90 cr.) Out of this, Rs 485.38 cr would be provided as Central Assistance. Funding for central
assistance will be made through National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) under
existing system for funding of 99 Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana- Accelerated Irrigation Benefit
Programme (PMKSY-AIBP) projects under Long Term Irrigation Fund (LTIF).
Significance
This project will help minimising some of water of River Ravi which at present is going waste through
Madhopur Headworks downstream to Pakistan. It will create irrigation potential of 5,000 hectares in
Punjab and 32,173 hectares in Jammu & Kashmir on completion. Besides, Punjab will be able to generate
206 MW of hydropower.
Background
Indus Waters Treaty was signed between India and Pakistan in 1960 for sharing of Indus waters.
According to this treaty, India got the full rights for utilization of waters of three eastern rivers namely
Ravi, Beas and Satluj. Bilateral agreement was signed between Punjab and J&K in January 1979 for
construction of RanjitSagar Dam (Thein Dam) and Shahpurkandi Dam by Punjab Government. RanjitSagar
Dam was commissioned in August 2000. ShahpurKandi Dam project was proposed on River Ravi. The
Project was initially approved by erstwhile Planning Commission in November 2001 and was included
under AIBP for funding its irrigation component. However, works could not progress much due to non-
availability of funds on part of Punjab Government for power component and later interstate issues with
J&K. Series of meetings were held bilaterally between both states as well as at Central Government level.
Finally, agreement was reached between both states under aegis of Ministry of Water Resources in
September, 2018.
Cabinet approves launch of National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems
Union Cabinet has approved launching of National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems
(NM-ICPS). It will be implemented by Department of Science &Technology under Ministry of Science and
Technology for period of five years. The objective of Mission is to addresses ever increasing technological
requirements of the society. It also takes into account international trends and road maps of leading
countries for next generation technologies.
Implementation of this mission will develop and bring
Cyber Physical Systems (CPS) and associated technologies within reach in the country,
Adoption of CPS technologies to address India specific National / Regional issues,
Catalyze Translational Research,
Produce Next Generation skilled manpower in CPS,
Accelerate entrepreneurship and start-up ecosystem development in CPS,
Place India at par with other advanced countries and derive several direct and indirect benefits.
Give impetus to advanced research in CPS, Technology development and higher education in
Science, Technology and Engineering disciplines.
NM-ICPS
It is comprehensive mission to address technology development, application development, human
resource development & skill enhancement, entrepreneurship and start-up development in CPS and
associated technologies.
It aims at establishment of 15 numbers of Technology Innovation Hubs (TIH), six numbers of Application
Innovation Hubs (AIH) and four numbers of Technology Translation Research Parks (TTRP).
These Hubs & TTRPs will connect to Academics, Industry, Central Ministries and State Government in
developing solutions at reputed academic, R&D and other organizations across the country in a hub and

spoke model.
They have four focused areas along which mission implementation will proceed viz. (i) Technology
Development; (ii) HRD & Skill Development; (iii) Innovation, Entrepreneurship & Start-ups Ecosystem
Development; (iv) International Collaborations.
Strategic approach involving a suitable mix of Academic, Industry and Government is proposed to be
adopted. Strong Steering and Monitoring Mechanisms in the form of Mission Governing Board (MGB),
Inter-Ministerial Coordination Committee (IMCC), Scientific Advisory Committee (SAC) and other Sub-
Committees will guide and monitor the Mission implementation.
Significance of Mission
It will act as engine of growth, benefiting national initiatives in health, education, energy, environment,
agriculture, strategic cum security, and industrial sectors, Industry 4.0, SMART Cities and Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). It will help bring paradigm shift in entire skill sets requirement. It will boost
job opportunities by imparting advanced skills and generating skilled manpower as per requirement of
the industry and society. It will support and encourage Central ministries and departments, state
governments and also industry to effectively use CPS technologies in their projects and schemes for the
benefit of the society.
Union Cabinet approves Agriculture Export Policy, 2018
Union Cabinet chaired by Prime MinisterPRAVEENNarendra Modi has approved Agriculture Export Policy, 2018
with aim to double farmer’s income by 2022. Cabinet has also approved proposal for establishment of
Monitoring Framework at Centre with Ministry of Commerce as nodal Department to oversee
implementation of Agriculture Export Policy. It will also have representation from various ministries and
departments and agencies and representatives of concerned State Governments
Agriculture Export Policy
It is aimed at doubling agricultural exports and integrating Indian farmers and agricultural products with
the global value chains. Its vision is to harness export potential of Indian agriculture, through suitable
policy instruments and to make India global power in agriculture and raise farmers’ income.
Objectives
Double agricultural exports from present US$ 30+ Billion to US$ 60+ Billion by 2022 and reach US$
100 Billion in next few years thereafter with stable trade policy regime.
Diversify India’s export basket, destinations and also boost high value and value added agricultural
exports including perishables.
Provide institutional mechanism for pursuing market access, tackling barriers and deal with
sanitary and phyto-sanitary issues.
Strive to double India’s share in world agri-exports by integrating with global value chain at earliest.
Promote indigenous, organic, ethnic, traditional and non-traditional agri products exports.
Enable farmers to benefit from export opportunities in overseas market.
Elements of Agriculture Export Policy:
Strategic
Policy measures
Holistic approach to boost exports
Infrastructure and logistics support
Focus on Clusters
Promoting value-added exports
Marketing and promotion of Brand India
Greater involvement of State Governments in agri exports
Operational
Attract private investments into production and processing
Research & Development
Establishment of strong quality regimen
Miscellaneous

December 10, 2018

2nd Khelo India School Games to be held in Pune from January 9 to 20, 2019
The second edition of Khelo India School Games rechristened as Khelo India Youth Games will be held
from January 9-20, 2019 in Pune, Maharashtra. It will take place at Shree Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Complex
in Pune. The first edition of this games under Khelo India Programme was held in New Delhi in February
2018.
Khelo India Youth Games
Union Ministry of Sports has expanded in its scope as compared to Khelo India School Games. It will allow
participants to compete in two categories, (Under 17) and (Under 21). It also allows students from colleges
and Universities to compete. It will see over 10,000 participants from 29 states and 7 Union Territories.
Thus
Khelo India Programme
It was introduced by Ministry of Sports and Youth affairs to revive sports culture in India at grass-root
level. Its objective is to build strong framework for all sports played in our country and establish India as
great sporting nation. It is expected to help scout young talent from schools in various disciplines and
groom them as future sports champions. Talented players will be identified under it in priority sports
disciplines at various levels by High-Powered Committed and each will be provided annual financial
assistance of Rs. 5 lakh for 8 years. PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
International Anti-Corruption Day observed on December 9

International Anti-Corruption Day (IACD) is observed every year across world on December 9 to raise
public awareness of corruption and what people can do to fight it. Observance of this day aims to promote
and strengthen measures to prevent and combat corruption more efficiently and effectively. It also
highlights role of United Nations Convention against Corruption in combating and preventing it.
Corruption
Corruption is serious societal crime that undermines social and economic development in all societies. No
country, region or community is immune from corruption. According to United Nations Development
Programme (UNDP), every year $1 trillion is paid in bribes while an estimated $2.6 trillion are stolen
annually through corruption – a sum equivalent to more than 5% of global GDP. In developing countries,
funds lost to corruption are estimated at 10 times amount of official development assistance.
Background
International Anti-Corruption Day was instituted by UN General Assembly (UNGA) by passing resolution
58/4 of October 31, 2003. It was adopted to raise people’s awareness of corruption and role of United
Nations Convention against Corruption (UNCAC) in combating and preventing it. The UNCAC is the first
legally binding, international anti-corruption instrument that provides a chance to mount a global
response to corruption.
Shi Yomi becomes 23rd district of Arunachal Pradesh
Shi Yomi formally became 23rd district of Arunachal Pradesh after it was inaugurated by Chief Minister
Pema Khandu in presence of Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju. It was created by bifurcating
West Siang district with its headquarters at Tato. It will have four administrative units namely Mechuka,
Tato, Pidi and Manigong. Two more districts Pakke-Kesang and Lepa Rada will be formally inaugurated in
the state within taking the total to 25.
Background
In August 2018, Arunachal Pradesh Legislative assembly has passed Arunachal Pradesh Re-Organisation
of Districts (Amendment) Bill, 2018 for creation of three new districts, Pakke-Kesang, Lepa Rada and Shi
Yomi in the state. These new districts were created keeping in view of large geographical area,
inaccessible terrains, growing demands of people, bring administration to their door-steps and for all-
round equal development in all parts of the state. With addition of these three new districts, state will
have total 25 districts from earlier 22 districts. Pakke-Kessang district will be carved out of East Kameng
district with five administrative units namely Pakke-Kessangn, Seijosa, Pijiriang, Passa Valley and
Dissingn Passo with district headquarters at Lemmi. Lepa Rada district will be created by bifurcating
Lower Siang district with headquarters at Basar. It will have four administrative units Tirbin, Basar,
Daring and Sago.

Kerala becomes first state to have 4 international airports with inauguration of Airport at Kannur
Kerala has become first state in the country to have four international airports with the inauguration of
Kannur airport. The first commercial flight from this airport Air India Express flight IX 715 with 180
passengers on board to Abu Dhabi was flagged off recently. The other three international airports are
Trivandrum International Airport, Cochin International Airport and Calicut International Airport.
Kannur international airport
It is built on a public-private partnership (PPP) model. It is spread across 2,000 acres of area It will help
non-resident Keralites (NRKs), especially in the Gulf region, besides boosting tourism and exports, which
will result in several job opportunities. Its commissioning is expected to pave way for state’s overall
development and prosperity, especially northern region. It will boost tourism in the region like Wayanad,
Kannur and Kasargode. It may also increase inter-trade in sectors such as spices and handloom.
Government notifies four commonly used medical devices as drugs
Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare has notified four medical devices including blood pressure
monitors, nebulisers, digital thermometers and glucometers as drugs under Drugs and Cosmetics Act,
1940. The decision will enable the government to ensure their quality and performance. Drug Controller
General of India (DCGI) will regulate import, manufacture and sale of these devices from January 2020.
Key Facts
Companies which are engaged in manufacture and import of these equipment will have to seek necessary
permission or license from DCGI from January 1, 2020 onward. All these devices will have to be registered
under quality parameters prescribed under Medical Devices Rules, 2017 and other standards set by Bureau
of Indian Standard (BIS) certification.
With addition of these four new devices, the number of medical devices falling under definition of drugs
under this law goes up to 27. Prior to this, only 23 medical devices were monitored for quality by DCGI.
The other medical equipments are sold without any quality checks or clinical trials. Drug Technical
Advisory Body (DTAB), the country’s highest drug advisory body earlier had approved the proposal to
include these four medical devices under purview of Drug law.
Background
Union Health Ministry has proposed expanding list of medical devices in eight new categories under
definition of ‘drugs’ to bring them under purview of Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940. The eight categories
include implantable medical devices, CT scan equipment, MRI equipment, defibrillators, implants, PET
equipment, dialysis machines, X-ray machines and bone marrow cell separator.
Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI)
DCGI under gamut of Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) is responsible for approval
of licenses of specified categories of drugs such as blood and blood products, vaccines, IV fluids and sera in
India. DCGI lays down standards and quality of manufacturing, selling, import and distribution of drugs in
India. It acts as appellate authority in case of any dispute regarding quality of drugs. It prepares and
maintains national reference standard. It brings about uniformity in enforcement of Drugs and Cosmetics
Act. It trains Drug Analysts deputed by State Drug Control Laboratories and other Institutions.
India to receive total remittance of $80 billion in 2018: World Bank
According to World Bank’s Migration and Development Brief, India will retain its position as world’s top
recipient of remittances in 2018, receiving a total remittance of $80 billion from its diaspora. India is
followed by China ($67 billion), Mexico and hilippines ($34 billion each) and Egypt ($26 billion).
Remittance: It is 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. It has direct impact on alleviating
poverty for many households especially in developing and low- and middle-income countries.
Key Highlights Migration and Development Brief

Global remittances: Including flows to high-income countries, are projected to grow by 10.3% to $689
billion. However it is projected to moderate. They are expected to grow 3.7% to $715 billion in 2019.
Developing countries: Remittances to developing countries will increase by 10.8% to reach $528 billion in
2018, against a 7.8% growth in 2017.
Low- and middle-income countries: Future remittances to these countries are expected to grow

moderately by 4% to $549 billion in 2019.

India: Over the last three years, India registered asignificant flow of remittances, from $62.7 billion in 2016
to $65.3 billion 2017. In 2017, remittances constituted 2.7% of India’s GDP.
South Asia: Remittances are projected to increase by 13.5% to $132 billion in 2018, a stronger pace than
5.7% growth seen in 2017. The upsurge is driven by stronger economic conditions in advanced economies,
particularly US and increase in oil prices having positive impact on outflows from some Gulf Cooperation
Council (GCC) countries such as UAE, which reported a 13% growth in outflows for first half of 2018.
Bangladesh and Pakistan have experienced strong upticks of 17.9% and 6.2% in 2018, respectively. For
2019, it is projected that remittances growth for region will slow to 4.3% due to moderation of growth in
advanced economies, lower migration to GCC and the benefits from the oil price spurt dissipating. GCC is
regional inter-governmental political and economic bloc of six oil rich middle-east countries viz. Bahrain,
Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and UAE.
INDRA NAVY maritime exercise between India and Russia kicks off Visakhapatnam Coast
The tenth edition of INDRA NAVY maritime exercise between India and Russia will be conducted off
Visakhapatnam coast, Andhra Pradesh from December 9-16, 2018. The aim of this exercise is to increase
interoperability amongst the two navies, develop common understanding and procedures for maritime
security operations.
INDRA NAVY 2018
It will be held in two phases viz. Harbour Phase and Sea Phase. Harbour Phase will be held at
Visakhapatnam and encompass planning conferences, professional interactions, cultural visits, sports
fixtures and formal calls between Flag Officers and senior officers of the participating navies. Sea Phase
will be conducted in the Bay of Bengal. Its thrust will be on Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), air defence
drills, surface firings, Visit Board Search and Seizure (VBSS) operations and tactical procedures.
For this edition of exercise, Indian Navy will be represented by guided missile destroyer INS Ranvir,
indigenous frigate INS Satpura , indigenous anti-submarine warfare (ASW) corvette INS Kadmatt,
indigenous missile corvettes IN Ships Kuthar and Khanjar and fleet tanker INS Jyoti In addition, one
Sindhughosh-class submarine, Dornier maritime patrol aircraft, Hawk fighter aircraft and other integral
rotary wing helicopters will be also taking part in the exercise. Russian Navy will be represented by ships
of from its submarine forces, pacific fleet based at Vladivostok. These ships are Varyag, Admiral
Panteleyev and Boris Butoma
Background
Indian Navy interacts with Russian Federation Navy on many fronts, which include operational
interactions, training, hydrographic cooperation and exchange of subject matter experts in various fields
through medium of Navy-to-Navy Staff Talks. INDRA NAVY exercise was initiated in 2003 and since then
it has matured over the years with increase in scope, complexity and level of participation. Exercise
INDRA NAVY-18 will help further strengthen mutual confidence and interoperability and also enable
sharing of best practices between both the navies.
Exercise AVIAINDRA between Indian and Russian air forces held at Jodhpur
The second edition of service specific exercise AVIAINDRA between Indian Air Force and Russian
Federation Aerospace Force (RFSAF) was held at Air Force Station Jodhpur, Rajasthan. The inaugural IAF-
RFSAF Ex AVIAINDRA was conducted in 2014 and since then it is conducted bi-annually (twice a year) in
both countries.
AVIAINDRA 2018
The aim of this exercise is focused towards anti-terrorist operations in bi-lateral scenario. It also seeks to
further enhance co-operation and understanding between Air forces of both countries in each other’s
Concept of Operations. This edition of exercise is planned in two phases.
The exercise is unique wherein foreign participant does not bring its air assets. In Russia IAF pilots flew
alongside their Russian counterparts in RFSAF aircraft at Lipetsk in September 2018. Similarly in India,
RFSAF pilots will fly alongside their Indian counterparts in the IAF aircraft, which are common to both Air
Forces.

Short Note: UN Global Counter Terrorism Coordination Compact

To deal with the rising problem of Terrorism, United Nation chief along with 39 organizational entities,
Interpol and World custom organization signed a framework to deal with terrorism and promote peace
and sustainable growth. The agreement is non-binding in nature. The UN Global counter terrorism
coordination compact is also termed as Global compact. The Global compact coordination committee will
be chaired by Under-Secretary-General for counter terrorism. And the first meeting took place on 6th
December 2018 in New York. United Nations office of counter terrorism will serve as Secretariat of Global
Compact.
What is the need of the Framework?
The Global terrorism index released by Institute for Economic and Peace showed that there is a decrease
in deaths due to terrorism, but the impacts of terrorism are still spreading all over the world. United
Nation is actively working to bring peace and cooperation among member states. To combat counter
terrorism UN created UN counter-terrorism implementation task force in 2005. The task force consists of
38 international entities. The goal of Counter terrorism Implementation task force was to organize
working groups and the project related to counter terrorism. Finally, on 23 rd February 2018, a new
agreement was signed to create more integrated working approach between the agencies and coordinate
them for counter terrorism and prevention of violent extremism.
UN Global counter terrorism coordination compact replaced counter-Terrorism Implementation Task
Force
Objectives of the agreement
To bring the UN agencies together to combat terrorism with common approach and find the ways to
improve the strategies to support member states.
To protect the people from violent extremist groups and hate speeches.
To adopt the strategies that do not compromise the international human rights standards and rule
of law.
To monitor use of technology which is the main source of reaching people globally and manipulate
them.
To devise the policies that will protect communities and their religious belief.
Despite the previous approaches and initiatives by UN there is still some loopholes in the strategies. There
is still threat of terrorism persist. Many countries are high on risk. By these new framework, UN is now
taking a step ahead to remove terrorism from the roots.
Highlights: Global Nutrition Report, 2018
India has the highest number of ‘stunted’ children in the world and nearly a third of all stunted children
worldwide are to be found in India as per the recently released WHO’s Global Nutrition Report, 2018.
About Global Nutrition Report
The Global Nutrition Report came into existence following the first Nutrition for Growth Initiative
Summit (N4G) in 2013. The Global Nutrition Report was devised as a mechanism for tracking the
commitments made by 100 stakeholders spanning governments, aid donors, civil society, the UN and
businesses.
The Global Nutrition Report is the world’s leading report on the state of global nutrition. The report is
delivered by an Independent Expert Group and guided at a strategic level by a Stakeholder Group, whose
members also review the Report.
2018 Report: Global Profile
Stunting among children aged under five has fallen from 32.6 per cent in 2000 to 22.2 per cent in
2017
20 million babies are born with low birth weight each year.
3 million Children in the world over are overweight, while 38.9 per cent of adults are overweight or
obese.
One third of all women of reproductive age have anaemia.
Women also have a higher prevalence of obesity than men.
2018 Report: Indian Profile

India has the highest number of ‘stunted’ children in the world and nearly a third of all stunted
children worldwide are to be found in India.
About 46.6 million children in India suffer from stunting due to poor nutrition intake in the long
term and repeated infections.
India is also the country with the highest number of children who are ‘wasted’. This is an even more
severe indicator of acute malnutrition.
India has 25.5 million children who are wasted. Among the 50.5 million children who are wasted
globally, India has half of the global wasting burden.
Stunting in India varied greatly from district to district (12.4 per cent to 65.1 per cent). 239 of 604
districts had stunting levels above 40 per cent.
As of 2015, the percentage of children Under 5 (both boys and girls) who were stunted was 37.9 per
cent and the percentage of children Under 5 who were wasted was 20.8 per cent.
The households with the lowest incomes had the highest number of wasting (23.8 per cent) and
stunting (50.7 per cent) among children aged under five years.
7 per cent of children under five years of age were stunted in rural India while 30.6 per cent of
children were stunted in urban India, while 21.1 per cent children aged under five were wasted in
rural areas and 19.9 per cent were wasted in urban areas.
The report also shows the nutrition status of children and adolescents aged between five and19
years. 58.1 per cent of boys were underweight while 50.1 per cent girls were underweight. This
difference between the genders is attributed to India’s adverse sex ratio in the first place.
More than half of all women of reproductive age (51.4 per cent), whether or not they were pregnant,
suffered from anaemia.
The International Food Policy Research Institute (IFPRI) had used district-level aggregate data from the
2015-2016 National and Family Health Survey (NFHS) in India along with the data from
UNICEF/WHO/World Bank Group: Joint child malnutrition estimates, NCD Risk Factor Collaboration,
WHO Global Health Observatory.
December 11, 2018
International Human Rights Day observed on December 10
The International Human Rights Day is observed every year on December 10 to commemorate adaptation
of Universal Declaration of Human Rights. On this day in 1948, United Nations General Assembly
(UNGA)— then headquartered in Paris — ratified Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR). Of the
58 member states, 48 voted in favour of the resolution, while eight abstained and two failed to vote.
Observance of the day seeks to encourage, support and amplify measures to be taken by everyone to
defend human rights. The theme for this year is ‘Stand Up For Human Rights’.
Background
On this day in 1948, United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) had adopted and proclaimed Universal
Declaration of Human Rights at the Palais de Chaillot in Paris. It was adopted as shared standard yard
stick to protect human rights across the globe. It recognizes inherent dignity and the equal and
inalienable rights of mankind as the foundation of justice, freedom and peace in the world. The Human
Rights Day was formally established at the 317th Plenary Meeting of the UNGA on 4 December 1950.
Government raises its contribution in National Pension System to 14% from 10%
Union Cabinet has decided to raise contribution of Central Government to National Pension System (NPS)
corpus of its employees from 10% to 14%. This will increase in eventual accumulated corpus of all central
government employees covered by NPS. There are 18 lakh central government employees at present. The
revenue impact from higher government contribution to employees’ corpus is expected to be around
Rs.2,840 crore for 2019-20 and will be in nature of a recurring expenditure.
Government also has decided to make NPS fully tax free, making it on par with the provident fund
scheme. It has decided to exempt income tax that is applicable on part of NPS corpus that is withdrawn on
retirement. At present, while exiting scheme, 60% of corpus could be withdrawn and 20% of withdrawn
amount is taxable. This portion now has been made tax free. The remaining part that could be used to buy

annuities is anyway tax free. With this decision, NPS has acquired parity with provident fund savings,
which are not taxed at any of three stages of saving, profit accrual or exit.
National Pension System (NPS)
It is easily accessible, low cost, tax-efficient, flexible and portable retirement savings account. It was
launched in 2004 and was initially introduced for new Government recruits (except armed forces). It aims
to institute pension reforms in country and to inculcate habit of saving for retirement amongst the
citizens. Its objective is to provide retirement income to all the citizens. Under it, individual contributes to
his retirement account. Employer can also co-contribute for social security/welfare of individual. It was
extended for all citizens of country from May 2009 including the unorganised sector workers on voluntary
basis. NPS is governed and administered by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority
(PFRDA). Currently, any Indian between age of 18 to 65 years may voluntarily join the NPS. NRI can open
an NPS account, however contributions made by NRI are subject to regulatory requirements as prescribed
by RBI and FEMA from time to time.
Hand-in-Hand Military exercise between India, China begins at Chengdu, China
The seventh edition Hand-in-Hand Military exercise between India, China began in Chengdu, China. It is
being held to improve capabilities of the two armies in fighting terrorism and promote mutual
understanding. The exercise was held after gap of one year as both the sides were locked in 73-day
standoff in Doklam in Sikkim sector of thePRAVEEN
border in 2017. The strained relations between two sides later
improved resulting in informal summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chinese President Xi
Jinping in Chinese city of Wuhan in April 2018.
Hand-in-Hand 2019
In this edition of exercise, 100 troops from each side are taking part. The main focus is on counter-
terrorism operations. It will involve tactical level operations in an International Counter Insurgency/
Counter Terrorist environment under UN mandate. The drill will promote understanding between two
militaries and improving their capabilities in fighting terrorism. The exercise will include live shooting
and adoptive and basic training.
Agni-5 missile successfully test-fired
Nuclear capable surface to surface Agni-5 ballistic missile was successfully test-fired from Dr Abdul Kalam
Island off the Odisha coast. It was user associated trial of missile undertaken by strategic force command
along with DRDO scientists.
About Test
The missile was launched with help of mobile launcher from launch pad-4 of the Integrated Test Range
(ITR) at Dr Abdul Kalam Island in the Bay of Bengal. During this trial, the flight performance of the missile
was tracked and monitored by radars, tracking instruments and observation stations.
It was seventh trial of the indigenously-developed surface-to-surface missile. The first test was conducted
in April 2012, second in September 2013, third in January 2015 and fourth in December 2016. The fifth test
was held January 2018 and seventh was held in June 2018. All the trials were successful.
Agni-5 ballistic missile
It is three-stage solid propellant nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), indigenously
developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is about 17 metres long, 2
metres wide and has a launch weight of around 50 tonnes.
Agni-5 is latest and most advanced variant in terms of navigation and guidance, warhead and engine in
Agni series of missiles. It has strike range of over 5,000 kilometres and can carry nuclear warhead of 1.5
tonne. Thus, it can hit most northern parts of China and other parts of Asia, Europe and Africa.
Unlike other missiles of Agni series, Agni-5 is most advanced missile having new technologies
incorporated with it in terms of navigation and guidance, warhead and engine. It is also a fire and forget
missile, which once fired cannot be stopped, except by interceptor missile which only US, Russia and Israel
have.
It carries Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles (MIRV) payloads. A single MIRV equipped
missile that can deliver multiple warheads at different targets. It is also incorporates advanced
technologies involving ring laser gyroscope and accelerometer for navigation and guidance. It has not yet

inducted into the Services.

HAL developed Light Utility Helicopter achieves important milestone of flying at 6 km altitude
Indigenously developed Light Utility Helicopter (LUH) by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has
achieved important milestone of flying at 6 km altitude in Bengaluru, capital of Karnataka. The test was
critical requirement towards certification of LUH. Its first flight was carried in September 2016 and
second Prototype was flown in May 2017.
The recent flight test was carried out under envelope expansion tests and helicopter exhibited satisfactory
performance and handling qualities. With the completion of this milestone, LUH can now undertake high
altitude cold weather trials planned in January 2019.
Light Utility Helicopter (LUH)
It is 3-ton class new generation helicopter designed and developed by indigenously Rotary Wing Research
and Design Center (RWR&DC) of HAL. It will replace ageing fleet of Cheetah and Chetak helicopters used
by Indian Armed Forces.
It is capable of flying at 220 kmph, with service ceiling of 6.5 km and range of 350 km with 400 kg payload.
It is fitted with Glass Cockpit and powered by TM/HAL Ardiden 1U/Shakti 1U single turbo shaft engine
with sufficient power margins to cater to demanding high altitude missions.
It will meet requirements of both military and civil operators. It can be deployed for reconnaissance,
surveillance roles and as light transport helicopter. HAL has in principal order for 187 LUH that includes
126 for Indian Army and 61 for IAF.

Hindustan Aeronautical Limited (HAL)
HAL is state-owned aerospace and defence company based in Bengaluru, Karnataka. It is governed under
the management of the Union Defence Ministry. It pursues high-end research and development to create
the country’s future aircraft and aeroengine technologies HAL has already developed four highly popular
models of helicopters under its belt. Its product range includes, Dhruv Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH),
multi-role seven seater Chetak Helicopter, Light combat helicopter (LCH) Cheetah and Lancer, anti-
insurgency, close air support chopper.
Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration adopted at UN Conference in Marrakesh,
Morocco
Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration was adopted by 164 nations including India at
Intergovermental Conference to adopt this compact held under auspices of United Nations General
Assembly (UNGA) at Marrakesh, Morocco. It is first intergovernmental agreement to cover wide-ranging
dimensions of international migration in holistic and comprehensive manner and agreed upon by all the
UN member states minus United States.
Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration
It seeks to better manage migration at local, national, regional and global levels, in order to reduce the
risks and vulnerabilities of migrants. It creates non-legally binding and co-operative framework that builds
on commitments agreed upon by member states in New York Declaration for refugees and migrants of
December 2016.
It lists four objectives. They are to
Ease pressures on host countries
Enhance refugee self-reliance
Expand access to third country solutions
Support conditions in countries of origin for return in safety and dignity
It sets out framework on how international cooperation on migration issues should work but does not
oblige states to take concrete action. It sets out 23 objectives to deal issues ranging from factors that
compel people to move, legal channels for migration, combating trafficking and smuggling, harness
economic benefits of migration and return of the migrants.
Its intent to protect human rights of migrants, address root causes of migration, and combat negative
myths surrounding migration. It acknowledges that migration is international issue that affects all
member states and there is a need for more effective migration governance.
Background

According to UN, there were 258 million international migrants in the world in 2017, increasing almost
50% since 2000. The number of migrants, representing 3.4% of world’s population, is increasing faster
than global population, driven by economic prosperity, inequality, violence, conflict and climate change.
Migrants worldwide account for 3% of the world’s entire population, but contribute 10% of the global gross
domestic production (GDP). Migrants remittance is huge contributor to their home countries’
development. Around 80% of world’s migrants move between countries in safe and orderly fashion. But
more than 60,000 people have died on the move since the year 2000. Besides in transit countries or the
country of destination, racism, discrimination and human-rights violations are continuously reported. The
process of developing compact was started in early 2017 as implementation of decision by UN member
states as adopted New York Declaration for Refugees and Migrants in September 2016. UN member states’
another decision pledged in the declaration is to develop a Global Compact on Refugees.
Shaktikanta Das: 25th Governor of RBI
1. India’s former economic affairs secretary and current member of the Finance Commission
Shaktikanta Das is to be appointed as next RBI Governor. He will be the 25th Governor of the apex
bank of the country.
About Shaktikanta Das
Shaktikanta Das is a 1980 batch IAS officer of Tamil Nadu Cadre and a very prominent bureaucrat
who served under both NDA and UPA governments.
He served as economic affairs secretary from 2015 to 2017; and was key official in both big economic
moves of the government viz. demonetisation and implementation of GST.
Appointment committee of cabinet approved Shaktikanta Das appointment as RBI governor. He will
serve as governor for the term of three years.
Background
After the resignation of Urijit patel, Shaktikanta Das has been appointed as 25th governor of RBI. Urijit
Patel resigned due to personal reasons. His tenure as RBI governor was about to complete in September
2019. Patel has become fourth RBI to step down before end of term. Before him, Sir Osborne Smith,
Benegal Rama Rau and S Jagannathan had resigned before completion of their respective tenures.
December 12, 2018
Government inks $31 million loan agreement with ADB to develop tourism and boost jobs in Tamil Nadu
Union Government has inked $31 million loan agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) for Tamil
Nadu Government’s Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism (IDIPT). It is fourth
loan tranche for this program aimed at building-up tourism industry and boost visitor arrivals in Tamil
Nadu.
Infrastructure Development Investment Program for Tourism (IDIPT)
It is $250 million project approved in September 2010. It aims to build opportunities for local communities
and boost local economy by enhancing tourism in three other states – Punjab, Himachal Pradesh and
Uttarakhand- besides Tamil Nadu. This will be achieved through developing and preserving sites of
natural and cultural heritage, and building connectivity, capacity, and infrastructure around State tourist
sites.
It will support conservation and restoration of eight heritage monuments, one museum, three temples
and pond. It will build various facilities at the sites, including information centers, rest centers and toilet
blocks with facilities served by solar-powered lighting and energy efficient lighting. The estimated
completion date is June 2020.
The project is expected to improve tourism infrastructure in Tamil Nadu and also help state in preserving
natural and cultural heritage. The activities under the project will also boost economic opportunities for
the local people. It will also generate extra jobs in Tamil Nadu, especially through skills training and
community-based activities target poor and women.
EU opens India’s first Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence in New Delhi
European Union (EU) has established India’s first Jean Monnet Centre of Excellence (CoE) at Department
of European Studies (DES) at Manipal Academy of Higher Education (MAHE) in New Delhi. It comes with
grant of €1,00,000 to pursue India-EU interdisciplinary studies in culture, literature, education and

society.
Key Facts
This is for fifth time MAHE has been awarded grants under Erasmus+Jean Monnet initiative. Previous
grants have been used for chair, modules and project. Under the present award, Jean Monnet CoE in India-
EU Interdisciplinary Studies aims to strengthen and enhance the educational connect between India and
EU. It will host open-to-public workshops on European literature, winter schools for students around the
world and India-EU Higher Education Meet.
Jean Monnet
He was French political economist and diplomat. He was influential supporter of European unity and is
considered as one of founding fathers of European Union. He also has been called “The Father of Europe”
by those who see his innovative and pioneering efforts in the 1950s as the key to establishing the
European Coal and Steel Community, the predecessor of today’s European Union. He was never elected to
public office.
Economist Surjit Bhalla resigns from Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council
Eminent economist and columnist Surjit Bhalla has resigned as part-time member of Economic Advisory
Council to the Prime Minister(EAC-PM). His resignation comes day after Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
governor Urjit Patel, quit abruptly after months-long tussle over policy with government.
Prime Minister’s Economic Advisory Council (PMEAC)
PMEAC is non-constitutional and non-statutory, non-permanent and independent body, constituted with
the prime and sole aim to analyse all critical issues, economic or otherwise, referred to it by the prime
minister and advising him thereon. It is mandate to give advice to prime minister on economic matters
such as inflation, GDP changes, export-import changes, creating supporting environment for increased
trade and commerce.
Functions
Submit periodic reports to PM related to macroeconomic developments and issues which will have
implications of the economic policy. Analyse any topics, issues assigned by the PM and provide advice to
them. Analyse macroeconomic issues having high importance and present the views to PM and any other
task which is assigned by Prime Minister.
Current Composition of PMEAC: It is headed by Niti Aayog member Bibek Debroy. Economists Rathin
Roy, Ashima Goyal and Shamika Ravi are other part-time members.
CAG Rajiv Mehrishi appointed as Vice-Chair of UN Panel of Auditors
Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) Rajiv Mehrishi was elected as Vice-Chair of United Nations (UN)
Panel of Auditors at its annual meeting held in New York. In this meeting CAG of UK was also appointed
as Chair of Panel for another term (2019). The meeting discussed various issues concerning audit of United
Nations and the agencies under the United Nations System. The next meeting will be held in in Bonn,
Germany in November-December 2019.
United Nations Panel of Auditors
It was established by UN General Assembly Resolution 1438 (XIV) in 1959. Its main objectives are to
further co-ordination of audits for which its members are responsible and to exchange information on
audit methods and findings.
It is made up of members of United Nations Board of Auditors and external auditors of Specialized
Agencies of UN and of International Atomic Energy Agency. Currently, it is chaired by CAG of UK and
consists of 11 countries — India, Germany, Chile, Canada, France, Italy, Philippines, Ghana, Indonesia,
Switzerland and United Kingdom.
It may submit to executive heads of organisations audited any observations or recommendations in
relation to accounts and financial procedures of organisation concerned. The executive heads of
articipating organisations may also, through their auditors submit requests to it for its opinion or
recommendation on any matter within its competence.
@CyberDost: Home Ministry launches Twitter account to spread awareness about cybercrimes
Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has launched Twitter account @CyberDost to spread awareness
about cybercrimes and normal precautions to be taken. It is aimed at enhancing people’s basic knowledge

about cybercrimes and precautions to be taken for prevention.

@CyberDost
This twitter handle will educate people about various channels through which complaints about cyber-
crimes can be filed and makes people aware of their duties regarding misuse of cyber space by some
people in the country. It will also help to mitigate possibilities of disruption in normal business activities
or losses due to cyber-crimes by creating ecosystem to prevent and control cyber-crimes. The information
shared on this handle will enhance basic knowledge of followers about cyber-crimes and precautionary
measures to be taken to prevent such crime.
Background
The information and communication technology is being used in all walks of public life including banking,
transport, airlines, railways, power and other sectors. With enhanced use of technology for day to day
activities, possibility of cyber-crimes is also increasing. Capacity building and public awareness are critical
components for obviating impact of cybercrimes and creating suitable climate for trust-based
transactions. Government is committed to create ecosystem to prevent and control cybercrimes to
mitigate the possibility of disruption in normal business activities or losses due to cybercrimes.
NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft find evidence of water on asteroid Bennu
NASA’s Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer (OSIRIS-REx)
spacecraft has found water locked insidePRAVEEN
asteroid Bennu. Bennu
GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com | is too small to have ever hosted liquid
water, but this finding does indicate that liquid water was present at some time on Bennu’s parent body, a
much larger asteroid.
Key Facts
Data obtained from spacecraft’s two spectrometers OSIRIS-REx Thermal Emission Spectrometer (OTES)
and OSIRIS-REx Visible and Infrared Spectrometer (OVIRS) has revealed presence ofhydroxyl molecules
that contain oxygen and hydrogen atoms bonded together. These hydroxyl groups exist globally across
asteroid in water-bearing clay minerals, indicating that at some point Bennu’s rocky material interacted
with water.
OSIRIS-REx
It launched in September 2016 is NASA’s first asteroid sampling mission i.e. it will survey surface, collect
sample and deliver it safely back to Earth. It had reached its destination Bennu asteroid in December 2018
after travelling through space for more than two years and travelling over two billion kilometres. Samples
returned by the mission to Earth in 2023 will enable scientists to find new information about the history
and evolution of our solar system.
Bennu
It is near-Earth carbonaceous asteroid about the size of a small mountain in the Apollo group. It was
discovered in September 1999 by the LINEAR Project. It is one of oldest known asteroids which is
considered as remnant from early in formation of solar system and orbits close to Earth’s path around
Sun.. It is carbon-rich asteroid and believed to be the type of asteroids that may have chemical building
blocks of life, along with lots of water. So, analysis of returned sample from it could help to reveal key
insights about early solar system and the origin of life on Earth. It is potentially hazardous asteroid and
there is very slight chance it could strike into Earth in the late 22nd century.
December 13, 2018
ADB retains India’s growth forecast at 7.3% for FY19
Asian Development Bank (ADB) in its Outlook Supplement has retained India’s growth forecast at 7.3% for
current fiscal (2018-19) and 7.6% in following financial year (2019-20). It held that India is maintaining
growth momentum on rebounding exports and higher industrial and agricultural output.
Key Facts
India saw GDP growth moderate to 7.1% in Q2 of FY2018 (ending March 31, 2019) from 8.2%in Q1. The
slowdown came mainly from food prices, rising oil prices delivering negative shock in terms of trade,
lower rural consumption, and rising costs for raw materials. But growth forecasts of 7.3% for 2018-19 and
7.6% for 2019-20 are retained from update despite some downside risks.
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
ADB is a regional development bank based out of Asia. It aims to promote social and economic

development in Asia by achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific,
while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. It was established in December 1966. It is
headquartered at Ortigas Centre in Manila, Philippines. It has total 67 members, of which 48 are from
within Asia and the Pacific and 19 outside.
IIP grows 8.1% in October 2018
According to data released by Central Statistics Office (CSO), factory output measured in terms of Index of
Industrial Production (IIP) grew 8.1% in October 2018 as against 4.5% in September 2018. The growth was
aided by favourable base effect and robust output in all key sectors—manufacturing, electricity and
mining. IIP is the closest approximation for measuring economic activity in the country’s business
landscape.
Breakaway of October 2018 IIP
Sector wise Performance: Manufacturing sector output grew 7.9% in October 2018 from 4.6% in
September 2018 and 2% a year ago. Electricity production growth grew to 10.8% in October from 8.6% in
September 2018 and 3.2% a year ago. Mining activity grew to 7% in October 2018 from 0.2% in September
2018 from de-growth of (-) 0.2% last year.
Use-based Performance: Primary goods grew by 6.0%, intermediate goods by 1.8% and
infrastructure/construction goods by 8.7% as compared to growth in October 2017. Consumer durables
output also grew 17.6%, from 5.2% in September 2018, indicating higher production during the festive
season. Consumer non-durables grew 7.9% in October 2018 as compared to 6.1% in September 2018.
Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
IIP is composite indicator that measures short-term changes in volume of production of basket of
industrial products during given period with respect to chosen base period. It is compiled and published
monthly by Central Statistical Organization (CSO), Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
(MoSPI). Its base year is 2011-12.
It comprises 407 individual items. Sector wise, the items included falls into 3 categories viz.
Manufacturing (405 items), Mining (1 items) & Electricity (1 item). he weights of the three sectors are
77.63%, 14.37%, 7.9% respectively. The combined weightage of 8 core Industries in IIP is 40.27%.
In use wise composition 407 individual items are divided into basic goods, capital goods, intermediate
goods and consumer goods. Further, consumer goods is divided into consumer durables and consumer
non-durables. In this case maximum weight is of basic goods, followed by Consumer Goods, followed by
Intermediate and Capital Goods.
Indian Navy inducts first Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel
Indian Navy inducted its first Submarine Rescue System with Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV)
along with associated equipment at western naval dockyard in Mumbai, Maharashtra (west coast of India).
It is first of the two non-tethered DSRVs ordered by Indian Navy. With this, India joined select list of
international navies (US, Russia, Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore UK, Sweden and Australia). Its
induction will enhance Indian Navy’s operational capabilities for search, locate and provide assistance to
downed or disaster-struck or distressed submarines at high sea.
Deep Submergence Rescue Vessel (DSRV)
The vehicles are developed by Scotland-based JFD, a part of James Fisher and Sons Plc In March, 2016. JFD
had won the contract of 193 million pounds for supply of two sets of non-tethered DSRV and 25 years of
maintenance.
These DSRVs are third-generation system, considered to be most advanced system currently in operation
globally. It is capable of undertaking rescue from a disabled submarine up to 650 metres depth. It is
operated by a crew of three, can rescue 14 personnel from disabled submarine at time.
DSRVs complete with associated kit in fly away configuration, can be crucial in quickly locating
submarines through vast expanse of sea and can be mobilised by air and water for rapid rescue. It can be
deployed at short notice for providing assistance to submarines in distress.
Indian Navy two DSRVs will be based on West and East Coast of India respectively. The first DSRV will be
operated and deployed by crew of Indian Navy’s newly formed Submarine Rescue Unit (West) from its
base in Mumbai. The second DSRV is out for delivery and is expected to reach Visakhapatnam soon. It will

be operational by April 2019.

Background
Indian Navy currently operates 16 submarines of Sindhughosh, Shishumar and Kalvari classes as well as
nuclear powered submarines. The operating medium and nature of operations undertaken by submarines
expose them to high degree of inherent risk. In such eventuality, traditional methods of search and rescue
at sea are ineffective for disabled submarine in deep waters. To overcome this capability gap Indian Navy
has acquired third generation, advanced Submarine Rescue System considering of Non-tethered Deep
Submergence Rescue Vehicle (DSRV) and its associated equipment.
Partners Forum 2018
Fourth edition of Partners’ Forum will be inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 12th
December in New Delhi. The two day international conference will be hosted by government of India in
association with Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and child Health (PMNCH). Total 1500 participants
from across 8 countries will participate to talk about the improvement in the health and well being of
women, children and adolescents.
Key Facts
The programme will be framed on the objective of Survive – Thrive – Transform. The forum is aimed to
explore the findings of 12 success factors case studies which shows how the countries are working
towards the improvement of women’s and children
PRAVEEN health. The| forum will showcase learnings from six
GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com
regions on six thematic areas:

1. Early childhood Development – Germany and Chile
2. Adolescent Health and Wellbeing – USA and Indonesia
3. Quality, Equity and Dignity in services – India and Cambodia
4. Sexual and Reproductive Health – Malawi and Malaysia
5. Empowerment of women, Girls and communities – South Africa and Guatemala
6. Humanitarian and fragile settings – Sierra Leone and Afghanistan
Background
The global health partnership, Partners’ Forum was launched in September 2005 to reduce the child and
maternal mortality, and improve adolescent, child, newborn and maternal health. Many countries around
the globe joined forum to achieve the objective. Earlier editions of forum were held in – Tanzania (2007),
India (2010), South Africa (2014).
PMNCH’s mission
The mission supports the global health community to work towards achieving the Sustainable
Development Goals (SDGs). Goal 3 of SDG is to achieve good health and well-being for people.
Uttar Pradesh’s Startup HelpUsGreen honoured by UN
Uttar Pradesh based startup HelpUsGreen has been honored by UN for its works to clean River Ganga by
recycling tonnes of floral waste. UN presented the award to the 14 other countries along with India at the
Nations Climate Action award ceremony during the UN Climate Change Conference in Katowice.
How It Works?
The startup collects the floral waste daily from the temples. These flowers are then recycled to produce
charcoal free incense, organic vermicompost and biodegradable packaging material through Flowercycling
technology.
According to UN the startup flower cycled 11060 metric tonnes of temple waste by the women working
with the startup. According to data, more than 800 million metric tonnes of flowers are used in temple
and these flowers are thrown into the Ganga river. The river filled with lots of waste, toxins and pesticides
dumped into it, eventually lead to pollution and water borne diseases.
HelpUsGreen
HelpUsGreen started as world’s first profitable solution to the waste problem created by flowers in
monumental temple. Total of 8.4 tons of floral waste is collected by the startup everyday from the temples
in Uttar Pradesh. The startup helped 1260 women who have been supporting the startup and 19 children
whose mother works at manual scavengers started going to school.
Dam Safety Bill 2018 introduced in Lok Sabha
Minister of State for Parliamentary affairs Arjun Ram Meghwal introduced Dam Safety Bill 2018 in Lok

Sabha. The bill provides a uniform procedure for the safety of dams in country. The bill ensures
surveillance, inspection, operation and maintenance of dams; and prevention of dam failure from disaster.
According to bill, dam owner is responsible for dam safety and contain penal provisions for not adhering
the certain acts of bill.
Key Features of Bill
The bill provides legal and institutional safeguard to ensure the safe functioning of dams.
The bill addresses all the issues related to dam safety, comprehensive dam safety review, Emergency
Action plan, repair and maintenance of funds for dam.
The bill provides institutional framework which includes – National Dam Safety Authority, State
committee on Dam safety, State Dam safety organization.
Owner of dam have to prepare Emergency action plan within 5 year and for new dams it has to
prepare before filling.
Owner of the dam is required to establish hydro-meteorological network and emergency Flood
warning system.
There is a provision for comprehensive safety evaluation by independent panel of expert.
Every state will establish a State Dam Safety Organization for the safety of Dam.
Background
India holds third rank after USA and China in terms
PRAVEEN of larger number
GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com | of dams. Over 5254 larger dams are
operating in India and about 447 dams are under construction. These dams are not maintained properly
which causes concern for human life, Flaura and Fauna and to environment. In past India faced 36 dam
failures due to low maintenance and lack of legal mechanism.
December 14, 2018
BP Singh Appointed as FTII New Chairman
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting has appointed Brijendra Pal Singh as the new chairman and
President of Film and Television Institute of India. He succeeded Anupam Kher, who had resigned from
the post in October because of some international commitments.
Brijendra Pal Singh
He is an alumnus of FTII of 1970-73 batch and done specialization in film cinematography.
He is producer of the famous crime drama CID and completed a record of 21 years of continuous
telecast on Sony TV.
He also made his name in Limca book of world record for taking continuous shot of 111 minutes
marking the completion of six years of crime drama CID.
He served as chairman of FTII academic council and vice chairman of governing council.
FTII
Film and television Institute of India is an autonomous body established in 1960. It comes under Ministry
of Information and Broadcasting. It is one of the members of International Liasion Centre of Schools of
Cinema and Television which is world’s leading organization of schools of films and television. The
institute is registered under Societies’ registration Act 1960.
It consists of a President who also serves as chairman of governing council and Standing Finance
Committee. Governing council of FTII is responsible for all the important policy decision of institute.
Director of Institute is responsible for implementation of policies.
Delhi High Court Orders Ban on sale of Online Medicines
The Delhi High Court has ordered a ban on the sale of online medicines by E-pharmacies across the
country. A bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and Justice V K Rao has also ordered central and delhi
governments to implement the order.
Background
The court was acting on a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed by Zaheer Ahmed, a Delhi based
dermatologist. The main complaints in the PIL were as follows:
Medicines worth Lakhs was being sold online everyday without much regulation and posing a huge
risk to patients as well as doctors.
Online sale of medicines is not permitted under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 and Pharmacy

Act, 1948.
The Drug Controller General of India in 2015 had clearly directed all state drug controllers to protect
the interest of public health by restraining such sale online.
By allowing unchecked online sales, the government has failed in its responsibility to protect public
health and fulfill its obligation under Article 21 of the constitution (right to life).
Drugs are different from common items; and their misuse and abuse can have serious consequences
for public health.
Internet is used by a large number of children, minors and also uneducated people in rural areas.
They can become victims of wrong medication.
Online pharmacies are working without drug licenses and are also indulged in selling psychotropic
substances.
Legal Status of Online Pharmacies
The Union Health Ministry had come out with draft rules on sale of drugs by E-pharmacies in September
2018. The objective of these rules was to regulate the sale of medicines across India. The government did
not ban the sale of drugs online because such sale also provides the patients in remote areas access to
genuine drugs from authentic portals. The draft rules had mandated that no person will distribute or sell,
stock, exhibit or offer for sale of drugs through e-pharmacy portal unless registered.
Supreme Court gives Clean Chit to NDA Government over Rafale Deal
Supreme Court has given clean chit to Modi government for purchase of 36 Rafale fighter Jets. The three
Judge bench headed by Ranjan Gogoi, find nothing wrong on the purchase of 36 fighter jet instead of 126
from France. The court gave clean chit on three aspects – Purchasing of 36 Rafale jets instead of 126.
Pricing of Rafale jets and Selection of Indian offset partners.
Key Facts
The bench consists of Ranjan Gogoi as chairman and other two members S K Kaul and K M Joseph, gave
clean chit on issue of procurement of Rafale jets from France. The litigation had questioned the deal on the
ground of pricing mechanism, commercial favoritism and procurement of less number of fighter jets. The
petition was first filed by Advocate M L Sharma. The petitioners demanded CBI to register a FIR for the
said irregularities in deal. The apex court rule has two main points – (1) It finds no evidence of commercial
favoritism (2) It is not the job of court to deal with comparative pricing mechanism.
Rafale Deal
Dassault Rafale won the MMRCA competition in January 2012 to supply 126 Jet aircraft with additional 63
aircraft to Indian Air Force. First 18 aircrafts were to be supplied by Dassault and remaining were to be
manufactured by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. Dassault refused to ensure the quality of aircraft
produced by HAL. In 2014 the price of deal increased to $30 billion. This created the price issue on the deal
and deal couldn’t be signed. Then after Modi government the deal was confirmed with the 36 multirole
fighter aircraft of Rs. 58000 crores from France’s Dassault Aviation. The deal has been in controversy
since its inception and supreme finally gave clean chit to government.
Four Indian PSUs feature in world’s top 100 arms producers: SIPRI Report
The recently released rankings by Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) have placed
four Indian Public Sector Undertakings among world’s top 100 arms producers. These companies are as
follows:
1. Indian Ordnance Factories (37th Rank)
2. Hindustan Aeronautics (38th Rank)
3. Bharat Electronics (64th Rank)
4. Bharat Dynamics (94th rank)
Key Facts
This was for the first time that four Indian companies have ranked in top 100 arms producers companies
of world. These four companies have sold arms worth USD 7.52 Billion in 2017.
About SIPRI
Established in 1966, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) is a Swedish think tank
dedicated to research into conflict, armaments, arms control and disarmament. SIPRI provides data,

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interested public.
India’s share in Global Arms Sale
India’s current share in total global arms sales stands at less than 2%. This indicates that India has been a
weak player in international markets. Successive government have tried to turn India into a global
defence manufacturing hub and take multiple policy steps to involve private sector in defense production.
However, most of such measures have been on papers only till now.
World’s top arms producers
The global arms market is dominated by US companies which have a whopping 57% of the market share,
followed by Russia (9.5%), United Kingdom (9%) and France (5.3%). As of 2017, Lockheed Martin is world’s
largest arms with arms sales of $ 44.9 billion. Boeing is the second largest arms producer company in the
world.
Government to set up National Medical Devices Promotion Council
The government will set up a National Medical Devices Promotion Council (NMDPC) under the
Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) in the Ministry of Commerce & Industry to
promote the medical devices sector. This announcement has been made by Union Minister of Commerce
and Industry and Civil Aviation, Suresh Prabhu on December 14, 2018.
Proposed Structure PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
National Medical Devices Promotion Council will have representations form concerned departments of
the Government of India and also healthcare industry and quality control institutions of the country. It
will be headed by Secretary of Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion. It will get technical
support from Andhra Pradesh MedTech Zone, Visakhapatnam.
Objectives and Activities
The key objectives and activities of the National Medical Devices Promotion Council will be as follows:
To work as a facilitating and developmental body for Indian Medical Devices Industry.
To conduct seminars, workshop and other promotional and networking activities to promote the
sector.
To identify redundant processes and provide technical assistance to simplify the approval processes
involved in medical devices industry.
To work towards making a export driven market in the field.
To support dissemination and documentation of international norms and standards for medical
devices’ and promote global best practices.
To drive a robust and dynamic Preferential Market Access (PMA) policy, by identifying the strengths
of the Indian manufacturers and discouraging unfair trade practices in imports; while ensuring pro-
active monitoring of public procurement notices across India to ensure compliance with PMA
guidelines of DIPP and DoP.
Help validation of Limited Liability Partnerships (LLPs) and other such entities within MDI sector.
To recommend government various measures to promote the MDI sector.
Medical Devices Industry (MDI) in India
The current value of India MDI industry is more than USD 5 Billion and India is one of the top 20 global
medical devices markets. However, the medical devices market in India is currently dominated by
imports. Currently, Indian companies are engaged in production of only low end products. There are huge
possibilities in this market and the government has provided for a regulatory framework for the industry
in 2017.
4th edition of Kochi-Muziris biennale inaugurated
Fourth edition of Kochi-Muziris biennale was inaugurated by Kerala Chief Minister at Parade Ground in
Fort Kochi, Kerala. The Biennale was curated by Anita Dube and become the first Biennale in world in
which participation of women accounts for half of the participating artists. The 108-day long event will
showcase 94 artists in 10 venues of the city. The Theme of the Biennale is – “Possibilities for a Non-
Alienated Life”.
Kochi Muziris Biennale
It is the largest contemporary art exhibition of India held in Kochi, Kerala. The event is the combined

effort of Kochi Biennale Foundation and government of India. The aim of the initiative is to bring artist
from around the globe and promote contemporary art. Contemporary artists Bose Krisnamachari and
Riyaz Komu proposed the state government the idea of Biennale on the lines of Venice Biennale. First
Kochi-Muziris Biennale began in December 2012.
Kochi Biennale Foundation
It is a non-profit charitable trust founded in 2010 for promoting art and culture educational activities in
India. It is the primary organization to host Kochi-Muziris Biennale. It also works towards the
conservation of heritage properties and upliftment of tradition art.
International Film Festival of Kerala concluded: List of Awards
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan presented awards during the 23rd International Film Festival of Kerala
held at Nishagandhi Auditorium, Kanakakunnu, Kerala. The event organized successfully after the state
witnessed one of the biggest natural calamities.
List of Awards
The Golden Crow Pheasant Award (Suvarna Chakoram) – Iranian film The Dark Room
The Silver Crow Pheasant Award (Rajatha Chakoram) for best Director – Lijo Jose Pellissery
Audience Poll Award for Best Film – Malyalam Film Ee. Ma.Yau
Rajath Chakoram for Debut Director – Anamika Haksar for Taking the Horse to Eat Jalebis
FIPRESCI Award – Zakariya’s Sudani from
PRAVEEN Nigeria
Network for Promotion of Asian Cinema Award – Malyalam Film Ee. Ma.Yau
Best reporter award – Aravind of Metro Vartha
Special Jury Mention Award – The Silence
K.R.Mohanan Endowment Award – Bengali Film ‘Manohar and I’
Special Jury Mention – FFSI K R Mohan Award – Bilathikuzhal
Special Jury Mention – Cinematographer – Saumyanand Sahi
International Film Festival of Kerala
The event was established in 1996 and hosted by Kerala State Chalachitra Academy annually in the
Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. This is one of the leading cultural events of India in which several national
and International films have their premier each year. The competition includes the films from Asia, Africa
or Latin America. Netpac and FIPRESCI award, introduced in 2007 for best Malayalam films.
India and ADB sign Loan Agreement of $60 million for Assam
Government of India and Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a loan agreement of $60 million for
financing project for renovation, protection and community-based flood risk management activities along
the Brahmaputra river in Assam. The objective of the program is to enhance the reliability and
effectiveness of flood and river bank erosion risk management systems in Assam. Duration of the loan is
20 years with the grace period of five years. Interest rates are determined by ADB based on London
Interbank Offered Rate (LIBOR) and commitment charge of 0.15% per year.
Key Facts
In 2010, ADB had approved the Tranch 2 Loan of $120 million for Assam Integrated Flood and River Bank
Erosion Risk Management Investment Program. The Project 2 of the program will help to fund the
structural and non-structural measures in three sub Project areas – Palasbari Gumi, Kaziranga and
Dibrugarh along the Brahmaputra river which covers 20 km of riverbank protection work and flood
embankments upto 13 km.
The executing and implementing agencies for this project are Flood and River Erosion Management
Agency of Assam and Assam State Disaster Management Authority. The project will create and
strengthen disaster management system and knowledge base for flood forecasting.
Brahmaputra River
The river originates from Mansarovar Lake in Himalayas in Tibet with the name Yarlung Tsangpo. It is one
of the major rivers of Asia flowing in China, India and Bangladesh. The river has different names along its
path. It is known as Yarlung Tsangpo in China, and Brahamputra in India. When it enters Bangladesh, it is
called Jamuna river before merging with Ganga and finally Meghna when it drains into Bay of Bengal.
Asian Development Bank

It is a Multilateral development bank established on 19th December 1966 with objective to promote social
and economic development in Asia. It is headquartered at Manila, Philippines. The President of the bank is
Takehiko Nakao. Presently 67 countries are the member of ADB and Japan and United States are the
largest shareholders of the bank. Other shareholders include China, India and Australia.
Bharat Bhushan Vyas Appointed as New Member of UPSC
On 13 December 2018, Sh. Bharat Bhushan Vyas has joined as a member of the Union Public Service
Commission. UPSC Chairman Arvind Saxena administered him the oath of office and secrecy. Shri Vyas
has become the first IAS officer from J&K cadre to join any constitutional body. His tenure will be of three
years.
About Bharat Bhushan Vyas
He is an IAS officer of the 1986 batch, serving Jammu and Kashmir for last 32 years. He retired as Chief
Secretary of Jammu and Kashmir. He served on prominent posts including Principal Secretary Finance,
Srinagar Deputy Commissioner, Divisional commissioner.
Union Public Service Commission
UPSC is a central recruiting agency in India which derived its mandate from Article 315 to 323 in Part XIV
of Indian Constitution. UPSC consists of a Chairman and four other members appointed by President of
India. The term of the Chairman and members of UPSC is of six years or until they attain the age of 65
years. According to Constitution, UPSC isPRAVEEN
‘watch – | dog’
GAUTAM of merit| system in India.
praveen.dda.20@gmail.com
Renowned English writer Amitav Ghosh selected for Jnanpith Award, 2018
Renowned English fiction writer Amitav Ghosh has been selected for Jnanpith award, 2018. This has been
announced by Jnanpith Selection Board on 14 December 2018.
About Amitav Ghosh
Amitav Ghosh was born in Calcutta in 1956. He is an alumnus of Doon School, Dehradun, St. Stephen’s
College, Delhi University and Delhi School of Economics. He was awarded Padma Shri in 2007 and was
elected as Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature in 2009. He was also named Ford Foundation Art of
Change Fellow in 2015.
His works
The Circle of Reason (1986) was his first novel. Other fiction works include The Shadow Lines (1988), The
Calcutta Chromosome (1995), The Glass Palace (2000), The Hungry Tide (2004). He has also written three
works as a part of The Ibis trology of which the first volume is Sea of Poppies (2008); second volume is
River of Smoke (2011); and third volume is Flood of Fire (2015).
His notable non-fiction works include Antique Land (1992), Dancing in Cambodia and at Large in Burma
(1998), Countdown (1999), and The Imam and the Indian (2002), The Great Derangement: Climate Change
and the Unthinkable (2016) etc.
About Jnanpith Award
Jnanpith award was instituted in 1961. Via this award, the Bhartiya Jnanpith recognises Indian litterateurs
who write in one of the 22 Indian languages listed in the Schedule Eight of the Indian Constitution. The
winners receive a cash prize, a citation and a bronze replica of Goddess Saraswati. Famour Malyalam
writer G.S. Kurup was first winner of Jnanpith award.
December 15, 2018
3rd Edition of Women Transforming India Awards to be Organized by NITI Aayog
Third edition of Women Transforming India Awards to be organized by Government think- tank NITI
Aayog on 16th December. On this occasion NITI Aayog will also launch the upgraded portal of Women
Entrepreneurship Platform. Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu will present the awards to the women. The
theme for this year awards is – ‘Women and Entrepreneurship’ and 15 winners have been selected.
Women Transforming India Awards
The awards were launched in 2016 to recognize the exceptional women who are working hard and making
difference in lives of others. It invites the stories of women entrepreneurs from the country, who are doing
innovative work to address the key development challenges and impacting the communities.
The nominations of the awards were opened on the launch of Women Entrepreneurship Platform in
March this year. The event will include panel discussions consists of entrepreneurs, investors, and

experts.
NITI Aayog
National Institution for Transforming India was launched on 1st January 2015 to achieve Sustainable
Development Goals and enhance cooperative federalism by increasing involvement of states in the policy
making process. The initiative consists of 5 years road map plan and 7 years vision, strategy and action
plan. NITI Aayog replaced the 65 years old Planning Commission of India.
Functions of NITI Aayog
To enhance the involvement of States in decision making process by fostering cooperative
federalism.
To promote innovation, knowledge and entrepreneurial support system through a collaborative
community of national and international experts.
Incorporating National security in economic strategy and policy.
To maintain state-of-the-art resource center for best practices in sustainable and equitable
development and promote good governance.
Formulate the strategies at village level and integrate these at higher levels of government.
To work towards the technology up-gradation for implementation of policies.
The design framework for strategic and long-term policies and monitor their progress.
Board of NITI Aayog
The board consists of a Chairperson, Vice Chairperson, Ex-Officio members, Chief Executive Officer,
Special Invitees, Full time members and Governing Council.
Chairperson – The Prime Minister of India
Vice Chairperson – Rajiv Kumar
Chief Executive Officer – Amitabh Kant
Governing Council – All Chief minister of Stated and LG of Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Special
Invitees.
Akademik Lomonosov: World’s First Floating Nuclear Power Plant becomes operational
On December 11, 2018, Russia’s Akademik Lomonosov, the world’s first floating nuclear power plant
(FNPP) has become operational. The Russian atomic energy corporation Rosatom announced that the
plant has been brought to 10% of its capacity.
Akademik Lomonosov
Akademik Lomonosov was constructed by Russian state nuclear power firm Rosatom. It has length of 144
metres and width of 30 metres. It has displacement of 21,500 tonnes and crew of 69 people. For power
generation, it has been fitted with two modified KLT-40 naval propulsion nuclear reactors (each of 35 MW
capacity) together providing up to 70 MW of electricity and 300 MW of heat. It is named after Russian
Academician Mikhail Lomonosov.
It has latest security systems and is considered as one of safest nuclear installations in the world.
However, environmentalists have dubbed it as ‘nuclear Titanic’ or ‘Chernobyl on ice’. It will be primarily
used to power oil rigs in remote areas of Artic region where Russia is pushing to drill for oil and gas.

Significance
The low-capacity, mobile (floating) nuclear power plant can produce enough electricity to power town of
200,000 residents living in Russia’s far-flung northernmost Artic region where large amounts of
electricity is not needed’ and construction of conventional power station based on coal, gas and diesel is
complicated and costly. It can save upto 50,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions per year.
The project is part of Russia’s greater aims to secure rich deposits of oil and gas in North Pole region in
Artic. Due to climate change, new shipping routes are opening up in Russia’s north and as result, it is
strengthening its military position in the region.
Internet Facility for Post Office Savings Bank Customers Launched
India Post has started internet facility of the customers of Post office savings bank account. The facility
was launched by Union Minister for Communication (independent charge) Manoj Sinha at National Media
Centre, New Delhi. Revamped version of Indian Post website and e-commerce portal for rural artisans
were also launched at event.
Facilities available to Customers
Customers can transfer funds online from one Post office Saving Bank Account to other.
E-Commerce portal provide an online market to rural artisans and Public Sector Units where they
can sell their products.
Indian Post Service provide a vast network for delivery of products over 1.5 lakh places.
Speed post service will deliver the products to the destination.
The online market provides return policy to the customers.
The Department of Post provides registration of sellers free of cost for the first six months.
India Post
India Post a central postal system of was founded on 1 st April 1854. It works under the Ministry of
Communication of the Government of India. The postal system of India is one of the widely distributed
networks in the world. India is divided into 23 postal circles headed by Chief Postmaster. Indian Post
providing its services in Philately, Army Postal Service, Electronic Indian Postal Order, Postal Life
Insurance, Postal Savings, Banking, Data collection, e-commerce, and Railways. Postage stamps are PIN
codes are used to identify the location for post.
Postal Stamps
Stamps are used for postage and for services. There are variety of stamps produced in India with different
themes. The first stamp in Asia were issued in India in July 1852 by Bartle Frere.

PIN codes
Postal Index Number is a 6-digit code of post office introduced on 15th August 1972. Out of total 9 PIN
regions, eight PIN denoted geographical regions and one is reserved for Army Postal Service.
Jammu and Kashmir passes the law on Sexual Exploitation
The state assembly of Jammu and Kashmir has passed law to ban sexual extortion of woman in offices and
became the first state in the country to amend law on Sextortion. The State Administrative Council headed
by Governor Satya Pal Malik has given approval for Prevention of Corruption (Amendment) Bill, 2018 and
Jammu and Kashmir Criminal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018.
Key Features
The new law amended section 154, 161 and schedule of Criminal Procedure Code and Section 53 of
Evidence Act to bring the Sextortion as a similar offence prescribed under RPC.
New Section E has been added to Section 354 of Ranbir Penal Code that makes sexual harassment a
criminal offence with three years of imprisonment.
The amended section 354 E has the provision related to sexual harassment and practice of extorting
money at workplace by those who are in position of authority, having a fiduciary relationship or a
public servant.
The new amendment prescribed the definition of misconduct and the demand for sexual favours
also comes under the misconduct in PRAVEEN
Section 5.
About Ranbir Penal Code

Indian Penal code is not applicable to Jammu and Kashmir and in place of IPC, a similar criminal law
Ranbir Penal Code applies in the state. The code was introduced by Ranbir Singh during the Dogra
Dynasty and it came in effect from 1932. The provision of code was prepared by Thomas Babington
Macaulay.
Australia Recognizes West Jerusalem as Capital of Israel
On 15th December 2018, Australia recognized West Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. With this, Australia
has become one of the few countries that officially recognize West Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and as the
seat of the Knesset (Israel’s parliament). This move is supposed to irk Indonesia and other countries.
However, Australia has made it clear that it will not move its embassy from Tel Aviv until a peace
settlement is reached between Israel and Palestine. Yet, Australia will establish a defence and trade office
in Jerusalem and start looking for an embassy site
Background
West Jerusalem is that part of Jerusalem which remained under Israeli control after the 1948 Arab–Israeli
War. A number of western countries such as the UK acknowledge de facto Israeli authority, but
withhold de jure recognition. Israel’s claim of sovereignty over West Jerusalem is more widely accepted
than its claim over city of East Jerusalem
Both Israel and Palestine claim Jerusalem as their capital.
Before this, United States President Donald Trump’s administration had also announced recognition
of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital on December 6, 2017.
The UN General Assembly passed a resolution in opposition to declare the US President Donald
Trump’s declaration of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital “null and void”
India also supported the resolution, which was approved with a majority of 127-9 at the UN General
Assembly calling for the US to withdraw its decision
The Israeli–Palestinian tussle is the ongoing struggle between Israelis and Palestinians that began in the
mid-20th century. The origins of this conflict can be traced back to Jewish immigration, and sectarian
conflict in Mandatory Palestine between Jews and Arabs. This conflict has been referred to as the world’s
“most intractable conflict”, with the ongoing Israeli occupation of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip for
last 51 years
Fact Sheet: Rajasthan Legislative Assembly Elections, 2018
Rajasthan Legislative Assembly Election, 2018 was held on 7 December 2018 in a single phase. The election
resulted in win of Indian National Congress and consequently, senior congress leader Ashok Gehlot was
selected to be Chief Minister of the state. Some exam oriented questions & answers:

Structure of Legislature of Rajasthan

Rajasthan has a unicameral legislature and thus has only one house called Vidhan Sabha or Legislative
Assembly, located in Jaipur, the state capital.
Unicameral and Bicameral Houses
At present, most Indian states have unicameral legislatures. Only seven states viz. Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Jammu and
Kashmir, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Telangana and Uttar Pradesh have bicameral legislature with one house being
Legislative Assembly and other house being Legislative Council. Legislative Assembly is the lower or popular house
while legislative council is the upper house.
The current strength of Rajasthan Assembly is 200 members. To form a government, a party or coalition
needs 101 seats in the house.
Current composition of Rajasthan Assembly
The recent election was held for 199 seats of the state (1 seat is for nomination by Governor). The seat
composition is as follows:
Past Chief Ministers

Since 1949, 14 people have served as Chief Minister of Rajasthan. Some important facts are as follows:
The first chief minister of Rajasthan was Heera Lal Shastri, who remained in office from 1949 to 1951.
The longest serving chief minister of Rajasthan was Mohan Lal Sukhadia who remained in office
from 1954 to 1971 except a brief period of President Rule in between.
Vasundhara Raje Scindia is the first and only female chief minister of Rajasthan.
Current Chief Minister – Ashok Gehlot
Ashok Gehlot has recently become the chief minister of the state for third time. He entered into politics in
early 1970s and has been active in both centre and state politics. He served as Union Minister in Indira
Gandhi, Rajiv Gandhi as well as Narsimharao governments. His first term as Rajasthan CM was from 1998
to 2003, while second term was from 2008 to 2013. Currently, he represents Sardarpura constituency.
Deputy Chief Minister – Sachin Pilot
Sachin Pilot was member of 15th Lok Sabha representing the Ajmer constituency. He has also served as
Minister of Corporate Affairs UPA-II government under Manmohan Singh. At present, he is the President
of the Rajasthan Pradesh Congress Committee. He has been selected to be deputy chief minister of the
state for the first time.
Fact Sheet: Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly Election, 2018
Madhya Pradesh Legislative Assembly Election, 2018 was held on 28 November 2018 in a single phase. The
election resulted in win of Indian National Congress and consequently, senior congress leader Kamal Nath
was selected to be Chief Minister of the state.
Structure of Legislature of Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh has a unicameral legislature and thus has only one house called Vidhan Sabha or
Legislative Assembly, located in Bhopal, the state capital. The current strength of Madhya Pradesh
Assembly is 231 members (230 elected and 1 nominated). To form a government, a party or coalition needs
115 seats in the house.
Current composition of Madhya Pradesh Vidhan Sabha
The recent election was held for 230 seats of the state. The seat composition is as follows:
INC (114)
BSP (2)

SP (1)
Independents (4)
BJP (109)
Others (1)
Nominated (1)
Past Chief Ministers
The current state of Madhya Pradesh came into existence after its reorganization on 1 November 1956
from erstwhile Madhya Bharat, Vindhya Pradesh and Bhopal State.
So far, 17 people have served as Chief Minister of the state, of which 11 belonged to Indian National
Congress.
The first Chief Minister of the state was Ravishankar Shukla who remains in office for only 60 days.
Govind Narayan Singh (1967-1969) was the first non-congress Chief Minister of the state.
The first chief minister to complete two full five year terms was Digvijay Singh.
The first and only female Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh was Uma Bharti who served between
2003 and 2004.
Shivraj Singh Chouhan is the longest serving Chief Minister of the state with 13 years in office from
2005 to 2018. PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Current Chief Minister
Veteran Congress Leader Kamal Nath is one of the longest serving and most senior members of the Lok
Sabha. He has been elected for nine times from Chhindwara Lok Sabha constituency of Madhya Pradesh.
He has served as Union Minister in various capacities under Manmohan Singh Government and has held
portfolios of Commerce and Industry ministry, Textiles Ministry, Environment and Forests Ministry, Road
Transport and Highways Ministry and Ministry of Urban Development.
Pu Zoramthanga has been appointed as new Chief Minister of Mizoram
Mr. Zoramthanga has been sworn in as the Mizoram’s new chief minister of Mizoram. Zoramthanga
belongs to the Mizo National Front (MNF). He will be heading a 12-member council. Governor of Mizoram
K Rajasekharan administered the oath of office and secrecy during a ceremony at Raj Bhavan in Aizawl,
which was taken by Zoramthanga in the Mizo language.
This is Zoramthanga’s third stint as the chief CM of Mizoram. Previously, he has led the MNF
government in Mizoram in 1998 and 2003.
The five cabinet ministers of the new Mizoram government are – Tawnluia, R Lalthangliana,
Lalchamliana, Lalzirliana and Lalrinsanga. Mr Tawnluia will also be the deputy chief minister of
Mizoram.
The six ministers of state in the new Mizoram government are — K Lalrinliana, Lalchhandama
Ralte, Lalruatkima, Dr K Beichhua, TJ Lalnuntluanga and Robert Romawia Ralte.
About MNF:
The Mizo National Front, also known as MNF, is a regional political party in the state of Mizoram.
MNF originated from the Mizo National Famine Front formed by Pu Laldenga. The Mizo National
Famine Front was formed to protest against the inaction of the Indian government towards the
famine of 1959 in the Mizo areas of Assam.
After years of violence and underground activities, it signed the Mizoram Accord in 1986 with the
Government of India, giving up secession and violence.
Recent Elections in the state of Mizoram:
The elections to the Legislative Assembly of Mizoram were held on 28th November 2018.
There are total 40 constituencies in Mizoram.
Mizo National Front (MNF) won 26 seats out of 40 seats in the 2018 elections.
Indian National Congress won 5 seats and BJP won 1 seat
Punjab Assembly passed resolution to seek 33% reservation for women in Parliament
Punjab Legislative Assembly unanimously passed a resolution for seeking 30% reservation for women in
Parliament and State legislative assembly. The resolution was moved by Chief Minister Captain

Amarinder Singh, urging the Centre to enact it. The bill would ensure the representation of men and
women equally in national electoral process.
Key facts
The women Reservation Bill will ensure the balanced representation of women in electoral and decision-
making process. The bill would reserve 180 seats out of 543 seats in Lok Sabha and 1370 seats out of 4109
seats in State Assembly.
Apart from that, State will give more parole holidays for prisoners extending from 12 weeks to 16 weeks
during 550th birth anniversary celebration of Guru Nanak Dev.
Other Resolutions passed
The state assembly passed other amendments in Punjab Goods and Service Tax Bill, The Punjab
Panchayat Raj Bill, The Punjab Good Conduct Prisoners Bill, The Punjab Regulation of Cattle Feed,
Concentration and Mineral Mixtures Bill.
The Punjab Goods and Service tax Bill will enable small taxpayer to quarterly file returns and tax
payment.
The Cattle feed Bill will provide framework for proper regulation of animal husbandry sector.
The State Assemble unanimously passed another resolution for swapping of land with Pakistan to
make it Kartarpur.
Fact Sheet: Cyclonic
PRAVEEN GAUTAM Storm Phethai
| praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Cyclonic Storm Phethai is the sixth named cyclone of 2018 North Indian Ocean Cyclone season. The
previous five named cyclones are Sagar, Mekunu, Luban, Titli and Gaza.
Formation
Cyclone Pethai has emerged as a deep depression in the Bay of Bengal around 900 kms off Chennai on 15
December 2018. It was expected to bring heavy rainfalls in the coastal areas of north Tamil Nadu, Andhra
Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Odisha.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Which state has been adjudged the best state at 2018 IITF Delhi?
[A] Jammu & Kashmir
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: C [Uttarakhand ]
Notes:
Uttarakhand has been adjudged the best state at the 38th India International Trade Fair (IITF) in New
Delhi, which showcased reconstruction work done at Kedarnath in recent months besides steps taken by
the state government to boost tourism and promote local products like organic honey. Beside this,
Himachal Pradesh pavilion has been awarded silver medal for excellent display in the 2018 IITF. This is
for the first time that state pavilion has received an award for showcasing traditional products like Kullu
and Kinnauri shawls, Chamba Rumaal, Kangra and Thanka paintings and wooden and metal craft
manufactured by the rural entrepreneurs in the trade fair to promote rural enterprise. Besides,
processed fruits prepared by the senior citizens of Nerwa in Shimla district and apple chips of Shimla’s
startup M/s Draplaz were also exhibited.
2. Which Indian philanthropist has been bestowed with the highest French civilian distinction
Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur?
[A] Azim Premji
[B] Shiv Nadar
[C] P. N. C. Menon
[D] Kushal Pal Singh
Correct Answer: A [Azim Premji]
Notes:
On November 28, IT czar and philanthropist Azim Premji was bestowed with the highest French civilian
distinction Chevalier de la Legion d’Honneur (Knight of the Legion of Honour). Premji, who is the

chairman of Bengaluru-headquartered IT major Wipro, received the distinction from the Ambassador of
France to India Alexandre Ziegler. The award was bestowed on Azim Premji for his outstanding
contribution to developing the information technology industry in India, his economic outreach in
France, and his laudable contribution to society as a philanthropist through the Azim Premji Foundation
and Azim Premji University. The Legion d’Honneur (Legion of Honour), instituted in 1802 by Napoleon
Bonaparte, is the highest civilian award given by the French Republic for outstanding service to France,
regardless of the nationality of the recipients.
3. The bilateral naval exercise ‘Konkan 18’ has started between India and which country?
[A] Japan
[B] Singapore
[C] Indonesia
[D] United Kingdom
Correct Answer: D [United Kingdom]
Notes:
The bilateral naval exercise ‘Konkan 18’ has started between the navies of India and the UK at the Goa
coast from November 28. The exercise will provide a platform for the two navies to periodically exercise
at sea and in harbour, so as to build interoperability and share best practices. The harbour phase is
scheduled from November 28 to 30, followed by the sea phase from December 2 to 6. The thrust of the
2018 exercise would be on anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, visit board
search and seizure (VBSS) and seamanship evolutions. The aim of the exercise is to derive mutual benefit
from each others’ experiences and is indicative of the continuing cooperation between the two countries.
The United Kingdom’s Royal Navy will be represented by HMS Dragon, a Type 45 Class Destroyer
equipped with an integral wildcat helicopter, while the Indian Navy will field INS Kolkata, the first ship
of latest Kolkata class destroyers, and a submarine.
4. The air force units of India & which country are scheduled to participate in exercise ‘Cope India
2019 (CI19)’?
[A] South Africa
[B] United States
[C] China
[D] Maldives
Correct Answer: B [United States]
Notes:
The air force units of India and the United States are scheduled to participate in a 12-day joint exercise
‘Cope India 2019’ at two air force stations in West Bengal. The bilateral flying training programme will
be held from December 3 to 14 of this year at two important airbases in West Bengal – Air Force Station
Kalaikunda and Air Force Station Arjan Singh at Panagarh. Exercise CI19 is a long-standing bilateral US
Pacific Air Forces (PACAF)-sponsored Field Training Exercise (FTX), conducted with the IAF, focused on
enhancing US-Indian mutual cooperation and building on existing capabilities, aircrew tactics and force
employment. The exercise will showcase US and India’s efforts and commitment to a free and open Indo-
Pacific region. COPE INDIA began in 2004 as a fighter training exercise held at Air Force Station
Gwalior. The exercise was last held in 2010.
5. Who has been elected the first woman President of Georgia?
[A] Janisse Ray
[B] Melissa Fay Greene
[C] Sue Monk Kidd
[D] Salome Zurabishvili
Correct Answer: D [Salome Zurabishvili]
Notes:
Salome Zurabishvili, a French-born Georgian politician, has elected the first woman president in the
history of Georgia. She will be inaugurated as President of Georgia on 16 December 2018. The President
of Georgia is head of state and a guarantor of national independence and unity of the country. He/she is
elected on the basis of universal, equal and direct suffrage by secret ballot, for a period of five years. The
President ensures the functioning of state bodies in accordance with the Constitution.

6. On which of the following dates, the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People
is observed?
[A] November 28
[B] November 29
[C] November 30
[D] November 27
Correct Answer: B [November 29]
Notes:
The International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People is observed by the United Nations every
year on November 29 as an opportunity for the international community to refocus its attention on the
fact that the question of Palestine remains unresolved and that the Palestinian people have yet to attain
their inalienable rights as defined by the General Assembly. The date of 29 November was chosen
because of its meaning and significance to the Palestinian people. On that day in 1947, the General
Assembly adopted resolution 181 (II), which came to be known as the Partition Resolution. That
resolution provided for the establishment in Palestine of a “Jewish State” and an “Arab State”, with
Jerusalem as a corpus separatum under a special international regime. Of the two States to be created
under this resolution, only one, Israel, has so far come into being.
7. Which city is the venue of the South Asia Regional
PRAVEEN GAUTAM Youth |Peace Conference?
[A] Kathmandu
[B] Colombo
[C] New Delhi
[D] Vientiane
Correct Answer: C [New Delhi]
Notes:
The South Asia Regional Youth Peace Conference has been organised by Gandhi Smriti and Darshan
Samiti (GSDS) in partnership with UNESCO- MGIEP and STEP (Standing Together to Enable Peace) from
November 28-30, 2018. The 3-day conference is being organized to mark the beginning of celebration of
150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The conference was inaugurated by ShriKrishna G
Kulkarni, great grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, at Gandhi Darshan in New Delhi. About 100 youth leaders
from South Asian countries and different parts of India have come together to discuss different
dimensions of ‘peace’. The conference focused on building a network for young leaders from South Asian
countries working on various social issues, to identify avenues for partnership and collaboration,
support and show solidarity towards each other’s initiatives, nurture relationships and promote global
citizenship to work towards achieving the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
8. Who has been appointed the new Chairman of National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC)?
[A] Anil Manibhai Naik
[B] Sunil Arora
[C] Nishant Jain
[D] P S Chaku
Correct Answer: A [Anil Manibhai Naik]
Notes:
Anil Manibhai Naik has been appointed as the new chairman of the National Skill Development
Corporation (NSDC). Currently Naik is the Group Chairman of India’s biggest engineering and
construction conglomerate – Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T). NSDC is a unique public-private-
partnership, working under the aegis of the Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. NSDC
aims to promote skill development by catalyzing creation of large, quality and for-profit vocational
institutions. The organisation provides funding to build scalable and profitable vocational training
initiatives. It also develops appropriate models to enhance, support and coordinate private sector
initiatives. NSDC supports short-term skill training through a wide network of training providers and
district nodal skill centres called Pradhan MantriKaushal Kendra (PMKK).
9. Which country has become the first NATO nation to appoint a female Chief of Armed Forces?
[A] Slovenia

[B] Belgium
[C] Italy
[D] Luxembourg
Correct Answer: A [Slovenia ]
Notes:
Slovenia has become the first NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) nation to appoint a female
Chief of Armed Forces after Major General Alenka Ermenc took the post of Head of its Army. The
country has approximately 7.500 soldiers, including active and reserve forces. Slovenia, which originally
was part of Yugoslavia, joined NATO and the European Union in 2004. NATO is an international alliance
that consists of 29 member states and 28 EU nations.
10. Iravatham Mahadevan, the renowned epigraphist has passed away recently, He was from
which state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Kerala
[C] Karnataka
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: D [Tamil Nadu] PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Notes:
Iravatham Mahadevan (88), the renowned epigraphist and Padma Shri recipient, has passed away in
Chennai, Tamil Nadu on November 26, 2018. A former civil servant, he also helmed the well-known
Tamil daily ‘Dinamani’ as its Editor in the late 1980s. He was known for his successful decipherment of
Tamil-Brahmi inscriptions and for his expertise on the epigraphy of the Indus Valley Civilization. He was
conferred the Campbell Medal by the Asiatic Society of Mumbai, formerly the Royal Asiatic Society, in
November 2014.
11. Who has become the first Indian to won the ISSF’s highest shooting honour ‘Blue Cross’?
[A] Gagan Narang
[B] Jitu Rai
[C] Abhinav Bindra
[D] Vijay Kumar
Correct Answer: C [Abhinav Bindra]
Notes:
India’s Olympic and world champion shooter Abhinav Bindra has been bestowed with the prestigious
ISSF’s highest shooting honour ‘Blue Cross’at the General Assembly in Munich for his outstanding
services as the chairman of the International Shooting Sport Federation’s Athletes Committee. The Blue
Cross is the highest laurel for shooters given by the ISSF. In 2008, by winning the gold in the 10 metre
Air Rifle event at the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, he created history by becoming the first Indian to
win an individual gold medal at the Olympic Games. He is the first and only Indian to have held both the
World and Olympic titles at the same time, a feat he accomplished by capturing the Gold Medal at the
2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, after having won the gold at the 2006 ISSF World Shooting
Championships. Bindra also won the Gold Medal at the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
12. What is the theme of the 2018 World AIDS Day (WAD)?
[A] On the fast track to end AIDS
[B] Hands up for HIV prevention
[C] Know your status
[D] My Health, My Right
Correct Answer: C [Know your status ]
Notes:
The World AIDS Day (WAD) is observed every year on 1st of December to raise awareness of the
Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) pandemic caused by the spread of HIV infection. The day
provides an opportunity for people worldwide to unite in the fight against HIV, to show support for
people living with HIV, and to commemorate those who have died from an AIDS-related illness. The 2018

theme is ‘Know your status’. It is estimated that around the world, 37 million people are living with HIV,
the highest number ever, yet a quarter do not know that they have the virus. Hence, Knowing your HIV
status enables people to make informed decisions about HIV prevention options, including services to
prevent children from becoming infected with HIV, male and female condoms, harm reduction services
for people who inject drugs, voluntary medical male circumcision and pre-exposure and post-exposure
prophylaxis.
13. The European Union has recently announced to become the world’s first climate neutral
economy by which year?
[A] 2060
[B] 2050
[C] 2040
[D] 2030
Correct Answer: B [2050 ]
Notes:
The European Union has recently announced a long-term vision on combating climate change that aims
to transform the bloc into the first carbon neutral major economy by 2050 – A Clean Planet for All .
Under the plan, emissions of greenhouse gases after that date would have to be offset by planting trees
or by burying the gases underground.PRAVEEN ItsGAUTAM
plan| praveen.dda.20@gmail.com
will include |
steps such as investing in realistic
technological solutions ( such as solar and wind energy ) to help lower carbon emissions. Thus, scientists
said that net-zero emissions by 2050 are needed to have a fighting chance of keeping global
temperatures under 1.5C this century. The Climate neutrality means your emissions are balanced by
methods of removing warming gases from the atmosphere. So the warming emissions that are created
by cars and power plants should be counteracted by the greenhouse gases removed from the air by the
planting of new forests or through carbon capture technologies which would see the CO2 buried
underground.
14. Which country will chair the Kimberley Process (KP) from January 2019?
[A] China
[B] Belgium
[C] India
[D] United States
Correct Answer: C [India ]
Notes:
India will chair the Kimberley Process (KP), a global initiative to remove conflict diamonds from the
global supply chain, from 1st January 2019. KP is a joint initiative of different countries, industry and
civil societies to control flow of conflict diamonds, which are used by rebel movements to finance wars
against legitimate governments in the world. India is the founding member of Kimberley Process
Certification Scheme (KPCS) and is actively involved in KP activities to ensure that almost 99% of the
diamond trade in the world is conflict free.
15. Which city is the venue of the 2nd International Ambedkar Conclave (IAC-2018)?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Indore
[C] Bhopal
[D] Chennai
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi]
Notes:
On November 30, the 2nd International Ambedkar Conclave (IAC-2018) has inaugurated by President
Ram Nath Kovind in New Delhi as part of the commemoration of Constitution Day. The Conclave is
being organised by the Forum of SC and ST Legislators and Parliamentarians and the Dr Ambedkar
Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar, widely known as the ‘Father of Indian Constitution’
was an Indian jurist, economist, politician and social reformer who inspired the Dalit Buddhist
movement and campaigned against social discrimination towards the untouchables, while also
supporting the rights of women and labour.

16. India’s first owl festival was held in which of the following cities?
[A] Udaipur
[B] Lucknow
[C] Pune
[D] Kolkata
Correct Answer: C [Pune ]
Notes:
India’s first owl festival was held at Pingori village in Purandar taluka of Pune from November 29. The
two-day festival, organised by Ela Foundation (an NGO working towards nature education and
conservation), will give information on owl conservation and feature art forms like pictures, paintings,
lanterns, lamp shades, posters, origami, stitched articles, poems and stories on owls. It is a first-of-its-
kind festival, which was organised with the intention of creating awareness about owl as a bird and
debunking numerous superstitions associated with it. According to a report published by Traffic India
and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) in 2010, owls were found to be consumed and traded for a wide
variety of purposes, including black magic, street performances, taxidermy, private aviaries/zoos, food
and in folk medicines. Despite being protected under the Wildlife (Protection) Act of India, the report has
found owls to be highly prized and in demand for black magic purposes.
17. Which Bangladeshi activist has beenPRAVEEN
chosen for the UNESCO / Emir Jaber al-Ahmad al Jaber al
Sabah Prize for Digital Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities?

[A] Shahidul Alam
[B] Rafida Ahmed Bonya
[C] Vashkar Bhattacharjee
[D] Taiyaba Majumder
Correct Answer: C [Vashkar Bhattacharjee]
Notes:
Vashkar Bhattacharjee, a Bangladeshi disabilities rights advocate, has been chosen for the UNESCO /
Emir Jaber al-Ahmad al Jaber al Sabah Prize for Digital Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities.
Bhattacharjee has successfully developed a pioneering dictionaries in Bangladesh for people with visual,
print and learning disabilities, and a special programme to help the disabled set up their own businesses
through e-micro credit support. Beside him, Chinese ICT company Tencent also won the award for its
outstanding contribution to the empowering and improving the quality of life of people with disabilities
by using inclusive digital technologies to provide greatly enhanced access to information. The award will
be handed out in a ceremony at the Unesco headquarters in Paris on December 3.
18. Which country is the partner country at the International CII Agro Tech 2018?
[A] United Kingdom
[B] France
[C] Germany
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: A [United Kingdom]
Notes:
On December 1, President Ram Nath kovind inaugurated the 13th edition of International CII Agro Tech
2018 with theme ‘Technology in Agriculture: Increasing Farmer’s Income’. The 4-day International Agro
Technology and Business Fair is being organised by Confederation of Indian Industries (CII). In the fair,
the partner country is Great Britain while focus countries are Canada and China. Here, Punjab and
Haryana are the the host states for international agricultural expo. A total of 195 exhibitors, including 37
foreign exhibitors from eight countries, will participate in the expo. The event will not only provides
deep insight into the India’s food & agriculture market but also acknowledges a meaningful business
interaction with & to the overseas participants.
19. Who is the author of the book “Architecture of Justice: A Pictorial Walk-through of the
Supreme Courts and High Courts of India”?
[A] Kuldip Singh
[B] Vinay Thakur

[C] Nageswara Rao

[D] S. Chandra Roy
Correct Answer: B [Vinay Thakur]
Notes:
The book “Architecture of Justice: A Pictorial Walk-through of the Supreme Courts and High Courts of
India” has been authored by father-son duo Vinay Thakur and Amogh Thakur. The 223-page coffee-table
tome was recently released by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) Ranjan Gogoi at the Indian International
Centre. The book, a sequel to Vinay’s earlier book ‘The Courts of India Past to Present’ (2016), is not about
photographs alone, and is replete with interesting trivia and anecdotes about the monumental buildings.
It takes a stroll through corridors of justice.
20. Which Northeast state of India has recently signed pact with Estonian academy on e-
governance?
[A] Assam
[B] Nagaland
[C] Tripura
[D] Mizoram
Correct Answer: B [Nagaland ] PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Notes:
The Nagaland government has recently signed pact with Estonian academy to enlighten the state people
on the e-governance models prevailing in the world. The main objective of the 5-year agreement with
the e-Governance Academy of Estonia is to work together to develop and expand scientific collaboration
on setting up e-Governance Academy in Nagaland. The agreement was signed during the current
edition of the e-Naga Summit, held with a vision to embark on a process to instill the spirit of innovation
and use of technology for impacting positive change in the society.
21. Which of the following cities is the venue of the UN Climate Summit (COP24)?
[A] Ottawa
[B] Brasilia
[C] Katowice
[D] Santiago
Correct Answer: C [Katowice]
Notes:
The 24th Conference of the Parties (COP 24) to the UNFCCC (United Nations Framework Convention on
Climate Change) has started in Katowice, Poland from 3-14 December 2018. The conference is expected
to finalize the rules for implementation of the Paris Agreement on climate change under the Paris
Agreement work programme (PAWP). It will also include a number of high-level events, mandated
events, action events and roundtables. About 20 thousand people from 190 countries will take part in the
event, including politicians, representatives of non-governmental organizations, scientific community
and business sector.
22. Which of the following countries has become the world’s first nation to recognise ‘orphanage
trafficking’ as a form of modern slavery?
[A] Indonesia
[B] Spain
[C] Belgium
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: D [Australia]
Notes:
Australia has become the first country in the world to recognise so-called orphanage trafficking as a
form of modern-day slavery. Hence, it has criminalized the act of falsely inducing children into
orphanages as a form of slavery, in what is believed to be the first move of its kind in the world. Under
the new law, orphanage trafficking will be treated as a slavery and trafficking offense. The legislation
forms part of a wider drive to stop Australians taking part in “voluntourism” schemes which harm

rather than help the children. It is estimated 80% of children in orphanages around the world have at
least one living parent but are in orphanages in a bid to attract international volunteers. This is what’s
called “Orphanage trafficking” where children are actively recruited into orphanages for the purpose of
exploitation and profit made from orphanage tourism, where people pay or donate to volunteer and visit
orphanages.
23. United States has signed trade pact with which of the following countries to replace North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA)?
[A] Venezuela and Cuba
[B] Canada and Mexico
[C] Chile and Costa Rica
[D] Uruguay and Bolivia
Correct Answer: B [Canada and Mexico ]
Notes:
The United States has signed trade pact with Canada and Mexico to replace the 24-year-old North
American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) in Buenos Aires, Argentina. They signed an authorization for
the deal on the sidelines of the Group of 20 (G20) summit 2018. The new US-Mexico-Canada Agreement
(USMCA) has 34 chapters & is meant to govern more than $1tn worth of trade between the three
countries. The pact has been tweaked to include changes for automakers, labor and environmental
standards, intellectual property protections, and some digital trade provisions. It will give the US
greater access to Canada’s dairy market and allows extra imports of Canadian cars. Now, the deal
requires ratification by all three countries’ legislatures before taking effect.
24. Which of the following is the first leader to lose Freedom of Paris award?
[A] Aung San Suu Kyi
[B] Evo Morales
[C] Tabare Vazquez
[D] Miguel Díaz-Canel
Correct Answer: A [Aung San Suu Kyi]
Notes:
Aung San Suu Kyi, the Nobel peace laureate & Myanmar leader, will be stripped of Freedom of Paris
award over her failure to speak out against a crackdown on Myanmar’s Rohingya minority. The move,
which follows similar decisions by Glasgow, Edinburgh and Oxford, would make Myanmar’s de facto
leader the first person to lose the freedom of the French capital, a purely symbolic award. The move will
be finalised by the city council at a meeting in mid-December 2018. Apart from this, Suu Kyi has already
been stripped of her honorary Canadian citizenship and her Amnesty International’s “Ambassador of
Conscience Award”. In 2017, nearly 5,00,000 people belonging to Myanmar’s Rohingya minority have
been displaced after violence allegedly instigated by the country’s military, causing a major
humanitarian crisis.
25. Who has become the first Indian to be elected as the vice-president of the International
Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF)?
[A] Abhinav Bindra
[B] Raninder Singh
[C] Karan Sidhu
[D] Yogeshwar Dutt
Correct Answer: B [Raninder Singh]
Notes:
Raninder Singh, son of current Chief Minister of Punjab Amarinder Singh, has become the first Indian to
be elected to be elected one of the four vice-presidents of the International Shooting Sports Federation
(ISSF) after securing 161 votes for the post in Munich. An international level trap shooter, Singh also
heads the president of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) since December 2009. Recently,
India’s Olympic and world champion shooter Abhinav Bindra has been bestowed with the prestigious
ISSF’s highest shooting honour ‘Blue Cross’at the General Assembly in Munich for his outstanding
services as the chairman of the International Shooting Sport Federation’s Athletes Committee. The Blue
Cross is the highest laurel for shooters given by the ISSF.

26. Recently, it was in news that India will host the G20 summit in 2022. Which of the following is
not a member of G-20?
[A] Spain
[B] Canada
[C] Saudi Arabia
[D] Turkey
Correct Answer: A [Spain]
Notes:
India will host the G20 summit in 2022, when the country celebrates its 75th year of Independence. The
announcement was made at the closing ceremony of the 2018 G-20 held in Argentina’s captial Buenos
Aires.The G-20 is a grouping of the world’s 20 major economies. Its comprise Argentina, Australia,
Brazil, Canada, China, the European Union, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Mexico,
Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, South Korea, Turkey, the UK and the U.S. Collectively, the G-20
economies account for nearly 90% of the gross world product, 80% of world trade, two-thirds of the
world population, and approximately half of the world land area. Spain is a permanent guest invitee.
Earlier, Italy was to host the international forum in 2022.
27. Cyril Ramaphosa, who is expected to be the chief guest at 2019 Republic Day of India is
President of which African country? PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
[A] Morocco
[B] South Africa
[C] Ghana
[D] Senegal
Correct Answer: B [South Africa]
Notes:
South African President Cyril Ramaphosa will be Chief Guest at the Republic Day of India 2019, which
also marks the 150th birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The celebrations are held every year at
Rajpath before the President of India. The Republic Day honours the date on which the Constitution of
India came into effect on 26th January 1950 with a democratic government system. & replaced the
Government of India Act (1935) as the governing document of India. The day was chosen as the Republic
day because it was on this day in 1930 when Declaration of Indian Independence (Purna Swaraj) was
proclaimed by the Indian National Congress (INC) as opposed to the Dominion status offered by British
Regime.
28. The 2nd Russia-India-China ‘RIC’ Trilateral Summit has recently held in which of the following
cities?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Beijing
[C] Buenos Aires
[D] Moscow
Correct Answer: C [Buenos Aires]
Notes:
In Argentina, the 2nd Russia-India-China (RIC) Trilateral Summit was held in Buenos Aires after a gap of
12 years, on the sidelines of the G-20 summit to discuss cooperation in various areas. The three leaders –
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping and Russian President Vladimir Putin –
agreed to have regular consultations to jointly promote international and regional peace and stability, to
strengthen cooperation through BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa), the SCO (Shanghai
Cooperation Organisation) and the East Asia Summit (EAS) mechanisms, to address global challenges
such as terrorism and climate change, and to encourage peaceful resolution of all differences.
29. Which of the following words has been declared People’s Word of 2018 by Cambridge
Dictionary?
[A] Nomophobia
[B] No-platforming

[C] Gender gap

[D] Ecocide
Correct Answer: A [Nomophobia]
Notes:
The UK’s Cambridge Dictionary has recently declared “Nomophobia”, the word that describes the stress
and anxiety caused by being separated from your mobile, as People’s Word of the year 2018. The word is
defined as the fear or worry at the idea of being without your mobile phone or unable to use it. Based on
the results of a popular vote, Nomophobia was chose over the other shortlisted words – ‘gender gap’,
‘ecocide’ and ‘no-platforming’.
30. Which city will be the venue of the India’s first indigenous film festival 2019?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Patna
[C] Kolkata
[D] Bhubaneswar
Correct Answer: D [Bhubaneswar]
Notes:
In February 2019, India’s first international indigenous
PRAVEEN GAUTAM film |festival will take place in Bhubaneswar,
Odisha. The fest is an initiative of activist film collective Video Republic that has been campaigning for
indigenous communities in the State. The three-stop event will kick off on February 19 and 20, moving
on to Puri from February 21 to 23 to eventually culminate in an interaction with the adivasi communities
at Niyamgiri. It will showcase films made by indigenous people or made by non-indigenous filmmakers
in collaboration with the indigenous communities. The aim of the fest is to build a platform for
indigenous communities from the world over to share, have a dialogue, collaborate and to use cinema as
a mode of united assertion, resistance and activism against exploitative forces.
31. Which city will be the venue of the India’s first indigenous film festival 2019?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Patna
[C] Kolkata
[D] Bhubaneswar
Correct Answer: D [Bhubaneswar]
Notes:
In February 2019, India’s first international indigenous film festival will take place in Bhubaneswar,
Odisha. The fest is an initiative of activist film collective Video Republic that has been campaigning for
indigenous communities in the State. The three-stop event will kick off on February 19 and 20, moving
on to Puri from February 21 to 23 to eventually culminate in an interaction with the adivasi communities
at Niyamgiri. It will showcase films made by indigenous people or made by non-indigenous filmmakers
in collaboration with the indigenous communities. The aim of the fest is to build a platform for
indigenous communities from the world over to share, have a dialogue, collaborate and to use cinema as
a mode of united assertion, resistance and activism against exploitative forces.
32. What is the theme of the 2018 International Day of Persons with Disabilities?
[A] Rights of Persons with Disabilities: Action in Developmen
[B] Decent Work for Persons with Disabilities
[C] Transformation toward sustainable and resilient society for all
[D] Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality
Correct Answer: D [Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality]
Notes:
The International Day of Persons with Disabilities is observed every year on December 3 to promote the
rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in all spheres of society and development and to
increase awareness of the situation of persons with disabilities in every aspect of political, social,
economic and cultural life. The annual observance of the Day was proclaimed in 1992, by a United
Nations General Assembly resolution. The 2018 theme ‘Empowering persons with disabilities and
ensuring inclusiveness and equality’ focuses on empowering persons with disabilities for an inclusive,

equitable and sustainable development as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This
year, the United Nations has launched the first-ever flagship report on disability and development “UN
Flagship Report on Disability and Development 2018 – Realizing the SDGs by, for and with persons with
disabilities”. The Report provides an evidence base for disability-inclusive policy-making,
implementation and monitoring and evaluation of an inclusive, accessible and sustainable global
development agenda.
33. What is the name of India’s first locomotive-less train, which was recently in news?
[A] Train 21
[B] Train 18
[C] Train 11
[D] Train 36
Correct Answer: B [Train 18]
Notes:
On December 2, India’s first locomotive-less train, known as Train 18, has breached the 180 kmph speed
limit during a test run at Kota-Sawai Madhopur section in Rajasthan. When this indigenously designed
train is made operational, it will become the country’s fastest train. Train 18 is capable of touching 200
kmph provided the rest of Indian Railways’ system, such as tracks and signals, permit. With 16 coaches,
the train will have the same passenger carrying capacity as that of the Shatabdi Express. It has
aerodynamically designed driver cabins at both ends for quicker turn-around at destinations. The train
also sports an advanced regenerative braking system which saves power. The fully air-conditioned train
offers better passenger comfort and safety, as all equipment are fixed under the carriage so that more
space is available on board.
34. Which country has recently decided to withdraw its membership from OPEC as of January
2019?
[A] Kuwait
[B] Qatar
[C] Venezuela
[D] Saudi Arabia
Correct Answer: B [Qatar ]
Notes:
Qatar has decided to withdraw its membership from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting
Countries (OPEC) with effect from 1st January 2019. The decision to withdraw from OPEC came after
Qatar reviewed ways to enhance its role internationally and plan its long-term strategy. It has plans to
increase its annual exports of Liquified Natural Gas (LPG) from 77 million tons of gas per year to 110
million tons. Qatar is the world’s largest exporter of LPG. It also wants to raise its oil production from
4.8 million barrels of oil equivalent a day to 6.5 million barrels. Currently, the Vienna-based OPEC
comprises 15 oil-producing and exporting countries. These are as follows: Algeria, Angola, Ecuador,
Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, Iran, Iraq, Kuwait, Libya, Nigeria, Qatar, the Republic of the Congo, Saudi
Arabia (the de facto leader), United Arab Emirates, and Venezuela.
35. Who has been awarded the PETA ‘Hero to Animals’ award for banning the Chinese manjha in
Delhi?
[A] Imran Hussain
[B] Arvind Kejriwal
[C] Manish Sisodia
[D] Rajendra Pal Gautam
Correct Answer: A [Imran Hussain]
Notes:
Imran Hussain, the Delhi Environment minister, has been awarded the ‘Hero to Animals’ award by
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) India for banning the Chinese manjha (or glass-
coated kite strings) in the national capital in 2017. He received a award for saving the lives of humans
and animals by banning all forms of manja throughout the National Capital Territory of Delhi. The policy
of PETA is to ensure animals do not suffer in laboratories, food industries, leather trade, recreational
businesses like circus, roadshows. It is also actively involved in policy formulation and legislative work

with governments in order to improve the quality of life of animals.

36. The “rakhi with khaki” initiative of which police station of Chhattisgarh holds the Guinness
World Records?
[A] Raipur Police
[B] Bhilai Police
[C] Bilaspur Police
[D] Korba Police
Correct Answer: C [Bilaspur Police]
Notes:
The Bilaspur Police in Chhattisgarh now holds the Guinness World Records for its ‘Rakhi with Khakhi’ as
part of which girls and women tied rakhis to 50,033 police officials rakhis over a span of ten hours and
then uploaded selfies with hashtags #rakhiwithkhaki and #HappyRakshaBandhan. The initiative was the
brainchild of Bilaspur Superintendent of Police Sheikh Arif Husen & was held on 25th August 2018, a day
before Raksha Bandhan. The Guinness World Records certificate was awarded to Bilaspur police at a
function held at the Lakhiram Memorial Auditorium on 1st December 2018. The aim of the initiative is to
reach out to women and girls and to assure them of security.
37. Which International organisationPRAVEEN
willGAUTAM
provide a $85 million loan for skill development in
| praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Odisha?
[A] AIIB
[B] NDB
[C] World Bank
[D] ADB
Correct Answer: D [ADB]
Notes:
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) will provide a $85 million loan to improve skill development eco-
system in Odisha and establish an advanced skill training centre at Bhubaneswar. The project will help
over 1.5 lakh people learn skills in priority sectors, including manufacturing, construction and services
for formal employment. The World Skill Centre (WSC) at Bhubaneswar will deliver 8 training courses for
13,000 full-time students, provide training for 5,000 teachers, and train 1,000 assessors. It will improve
the overall eco-system of skill development in Odisha by providing integrated services through an
entrepreneurship incubation centre, a career counselling and placement centre, a curriculum design and
development centre, and education technology deployment centre.
38. Who has been sworn-in as the new President of Mexico?
[A] Enrique Pena Nieto
[B] Juntos Haremos Historia
[C] Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador
[D] Jaime Rodriguez Calderon
Correct Answer: C [Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador]
Notes:
Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, popularly known by his initials AMLO, has been sworn-in as the new
President of Mexico on December 1, 2018. He won the historic landslide victory at July 1 presidential
election 2018 with over 50% of the popular vote. He started his six-year term with a promise to end the
corruption, poverty and extreme violence that have plagued the country for more than a decade. This
was the first time since the 1988 election that a presidential candidate was elected with an absolute
majority (50%+1) of the votes cast. The President of Mexico is the head of state and government of
Mexico. Under the Constitution, the president is also the Supreme Commander of the Mexican armed
forces.
39. What is the objective of Heart Attack Rewind campaign launched by FSSAI?
[A] Eliminate Industrial Produced Trans-fats
[B] Promote use of indigenous refined vegetable oil
[C] Promote hygienic food

[D] All of the above

Correct Answer: A [Eliminate Industrial Produced Trans-fats ]
Notes:
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has launched a new mass media campaign
“Heart Attack Rewind” to eliminate industrially produced trans fat in the food supply by 2022 before
WHO deadline. The campaign is the 30 second Public Service Announcement (PSA), which will warn
citizens about the health hazards of consuming trans fats and offer strategies to avoid them through
healthier alternatives. Edible oil industries took a pledge to reduce the levels of salt, sugar, saturated fat
and trans fat content by 2% by 2022. As per records, trans fat intake leads to more than five lakh deaths
from cardiovascular diseases every year, globally. Trans fat is made by adding hydrogen to liquid
vegetable oils to solidify them and increase the shelf life of food. Trans fat is largely present in vanaspati,
margarine, and bakery shortenings, and can be found in baked and fried foods.
40. Which city is the venue of the Asia Pacific Summit-2018?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Kathmandu
[C] Vientiane
[D] Male
Correct Answer: B [Kathmandu] PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Notes:
On December 2, the Asia Pacific Summit-2018 was held in Kathmandu, the capital of Nepal. The theme of
two day Summit is “Addressing the Critical Challenges of Our Time: Interdependence, Mutual
Prosperity, and Universal Values”. It was organised by the controversial South Korea-based Universal
Peace Federation and supported by the Government of Nepal. Around 1500 participants from 45
countries including India attended the summit. They discussed various global issues including peace,
development, good governance and role of parliamentarians, climate change and role of media.
41. Which of the following theatre level maritime war exercise will be conducted by Indian Navy?
[A] Sagar Kavach
[B] Avardhan
[C] Sea Vigil
[D] TROPEX
Correct Answer: D [TROPEX]
Notes:
The Indian Navy will conduct its flagship Theatre Level Operational Readiness Exercise (TROPEX), from
January end till early March 2019. This will provide an opportunity to test the combat capability of the
Indian Coast Guards (ICG), Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF), Indian Navy, and strengthened
inter-operability and joint operations in complex conflict situation. As part of TROPEX, the Indian Navy
would also conduct a large-scale coastal defence exercise ‘Exercise Sea Vigil’ which will involve all
stakeholders across mainland and island territories. The aim of such an exercise is to test the robustness
of our entire coastal security apparatus through his massive exercise. The yearly exercise takes place on
the Western Seaboard which will have participation of over 45 ships from both the Western and Eastern
Naval Commands of the Indian Navy, including the aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, submarines
including the nuclear powered Chakra, naval aircraft MiG-29K, helicopters as well as ships from the ICG.
42. Which city is the venue of the 80th Session of the Policy Commission of the World Customs
Organization (WCO)?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Dehradun
[C] Indore
[D] Mumbai
Correct Answer: D [Mumbai]
Notes:
On 3rd December 2018, the 80th Session of the Policy Commission of the World Customs Organization
(WCO) was held in Mumbai, Maharashtra . The Session is being organized by the WCO and hosted by the

Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC), India. The Indian delegation was headed by CBIC
Chairman, S Ramesh. The custom heads of more than 30 countries participated in the 3-day long
discussion on various matters related to customs. Some of the important topics discussed during the
meeting include trade facilitation, controlling illicit financial flow, performance measurement,
challenges of small island economies, etc. The WCO is the only global organization which defines global
standards and procedures for customs clearances at the border and their implementation. It is
headquartered at Brussels, Belgium.
43. Atlawim Debebe, who won the 2018 Pune International Marathon, is from which country?
[A] Greece
[B] Kenya
[C] Ethiopia
[D] Jamaica
Correct Answer: C [Ethiopia ]
Notes:
Atlawim Debebe of Ethiopia has won the 2018 Pune International Marathon with the timing of 2 hours 17
minutes 17 seconds. Teshome Getachew claimed second and Bekele Asefa third position. Both of them
are also from Ethiopia.In women’s Full Marathon Pascalia Chepkogei from Kenya stood first with the
timing of 2 hour 50 minutes 27 seconds. Among Indian runners this year also Karan Singh of Bombay
Engineering Group stood first in Men’sPRAVEEN
category. In women’s Full marathon Urvi Tambe stood first
amongst Indian participants. Along with 100 foreign runners, more than 15 thousand people
participated in this oldest International Marathon this year. This is 33rd year of Pune International
Marathon.
44. EX SHINYUU Maitri-2018 has started between India and which country?
[A] South Korea
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] Japan
[D] China
Correct Answer: C [Japan]
Notes:
The first-ever bilateral air exercise “EX SHINYUU Maitri-2018 “ has started between Japanese Air Self
Defence Force (JASDF) and Indian Air Force at A F Station Agra in Uttar Pradesh from 03-07 Dec 18. The
IAF is participating with An-32 and C-17 aircraft with aircrew & observers. The theme of the exercise is
joint Mobility/Humanitarian Assistance & Disaster Relief (HADR) on Transport aircraft. The focus of the
exercise is set for the IAF and JASDF crews to undertake Joint Mobility/ HADR operations. Display of
heavy loading/ off loading are also planned to be practiced during this exercise.
45. Which of the following cities is the venue of the International conference on bears?
[A] Udaipur
[B] Patna
[C] Agra
[D] Pune
Correct Answer: C [Agra ]
Notes:
In Uttar Pradesh, the International conference on bears has started in Agra from December 3, 2018. The
four-day conference is aimed at sharing knowledge on principles of the welfare of bears and other wild
animals in zoos, sanctuaries and rescue centres. The conference has been Hosted by Wildlife SOS in
collaboration with Bear Care Group from the US and Canada. It is focused on bear care, wildlife
conservation and human wildlife conflict mitigation. More than 80 delegates from 11 countries viz. US,
Canada, Australia, the UK, France, Germany, Demark, the Netherlands, Vietnam etc., participated in the
conference.
46. Who has been honoured with the 2018 Men’s Ballon d’Or award?
[A] Lionel Messi
[B] Cristiano Ronaldo

[C] Luka Modric

[D] Zlatan Ibrahimovic
Correct Answer: C [Luka Modric]
Notes:
Luka Modric, Croatia and Real Madrid midfielder, has been honoured with the perstigiuos 2018 Men’s
Ballon d’Or award. With this, he ended Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi’s decade-long dominance in
the men’s awards. Modric won his third successive Champions League title in May 2018 and also
captained Croatia to its first FIFA World Cup final in Russia. He was named player of the tournament
despite his side losing 4-2 to France. For the first time in the history of the Ballon d’Or prize, the female
player category was awarded in 2018. Hence, Norwegian striker Ada Hegerberg has become the first-
ever recipient of the women’s Ballon d’Or. The Ballon d’Or is an annual football award presented by
French magazine France Football.
47. Which state government has announced a new initiative ‘PEETHA’ to publicize govt schemes?
[A] Odisha
[B] West Bengal
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: A [Odisha ] PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Notes:
Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has recently announced a new initiative ‘PEETHA’ to create
awareness about various government schemes and improve transparency. It also aims at improving
transparency in the distribution of individual and social benefits. The acronym ‘PEETHA’ stands for
Peoples Empowerment Enabling Transparency and Accountability. The PEETHA is a sub-scheme of the
state government’s flagship Ama Gaon Ama Bikas yojana. As part of the initiative, camps will be
organised at gram panchayat level from 15th to 20th of each month, beginning from December 2018.
Every month the best panchayat in each Block will be given Rs 5 lakh for organising PEETHA. Upon
completion of the camps, the best panchayats in each district will be awarded at the district Level.
Similarly, panchayats, blocks and best districts will be awarded with special funds at the state level.
48. Who has been appointed the new Finance Secretary of India?
[A] Ajay Narayan Jha
[B] Arun Ramanathan
[C] S Venkitaraman
[D] Ajay Bhushan Pandey
Correct Answer: A [Ajay Narayan Jha]
Notes:
Ajay Narayan Jha, a 1982-batch IAS officer of Manipur Tripura cadre, has been appointed the new
Finance Secretary of India. He succeeded Hasmukh Adhia. The Finance Secretary is the Permanent
Secretary-level civil servant, who plays a leadership role in the bureaucracy of the Finance Ministry.
49. Which is the first North-Eastern State in India to launch Pan-India single emergency number
‘112’ under ERSS?
[A] Nagaland
[B] Sikkim
[C] Mizoram
[D] Meghalaya
Correct Answer: A [Nagaland ]
Notes:
On December 1, Nagaland became the first state in the northeastern region and 2nd in the country after
Himachal Pradesh to adopt a Pan-India single emergency number ‘112’ under ERSS ( Emergency
Response Support System) project. It was launched by the Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh at
Kohima, which coincided with the Formation Day of Nagaland and the inaugural day of Hornbill Festival
2018. Now, the residents can dial 112 or use Panic Button on their phones or 112 India mobile App to
connect to a single number based 112 emergency services which will connect to Police, Fire, Health and

other helplines through an Emergency Response Centre in the State. As a special feature, to ensure
safety of women, a unique ‘SHOUT’ feature has been introduced in 112 India mobile App. This allows
victims to seek immediate assistance from registered volunteers in the vicinity apart from contacting
Emergency Response Centre. The SHOUT feature is exclusively available to women.
50. Who has become the first Indian to be elected in ISSF’s judges committee?
[A] Yogeshwar Dutt
[B] Pawan Singh
[C] Raninder Singh
[D] Abhinav Bindra
Correct Answer: B [Pawan Singh]
Notes:
Pawan Singh has become the first Indian to be elected one of seven member’s of the Judges Committee
of the International Shooting Sports Federation (ISSF). He also holds the post of the Joint Secretary
General of the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) and was a former coach of the Indian shooting
team.Recently, Raninder Singh, President of NRAI had become the first Indian to be elected Vice
President of ISSF. While, India’s Olympic and world champion shooter Abhinav Bindra has been
bestowed with the prestigious ISSF’s highest shooting honour ‘Blue Cross’at the General Assembly in
Munich for his outstanding services as the chairman of the International Shooting Sport Federation’s
Athletes Committee. The Blue Cross is thePRAVEEN
highest laurel for shooters given by the ISSF.
51. Who has clinched India’s first-ever International medal in Ultra Running?
[A] Sunil Sharma
[B] LL Meena
[C] Ullas Narayan
[D] K S Jha
Correct Answer: C [Ullas Narayan]
Notes:
Ullas Narayan has created history by winning India’s first ever International medal in Ultra Running. He
finished third at the 2018 International Association of Ultra Running (IAU) 24 Hour Asia & Oceania
Championship in Taipei. A group bronze medal was also won by the Indian team which had Narayan
(250 km), Sunil Sharma (202 km) and LL Meena (192 km). Ultra races involve running over extremely
long distances which are far longer than the traditional races. These races take place over two modalities
– either over a set distance like 50 km, 100 km and longer events or a set time (like 6 hr, 24 hr, and multi-
day events).
52. Which noted artist is the winner of the Turner Prize for 2018?
[A] Naeem Mohaiemen
[B] Charlotte Prodger
[C] Luke Willis Thompson
[D] Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Correct Answer: B [Charlotte Prodger]
Notes:
The Glasgow-based British artist Charlotte Prodger has won the prestigious £25,000 Turner Prize 2018
for her film work examining landscapes and gender identity. She has been hailed for her work ‘Bridgit’,
which was shot using her phone, and for the multi-format film ‘Stoneymollan Trail’, exhibited at Bergen
Kunsthall. Nigerian novelist Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie presented the award at a ceremony held at Tate
Britain in London. The Turner Prize award, named after the 19th-century English painter J. M. W.
Turner since 1984, is £40,000 with £25,000 going to the winner and £5,000 each for the other shortlisted
artists. Beside Prodger , the other 2018 shortlisted artists were Forensic Architecture, Naeem
Mohaiemen, and Luke Willis Thompson.
53. Government of Nagaland has inaugurated a new Project namely- Development of Tribal
Circuit under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme. This falls under the ambit of which Central
Government Ministry?

[A] Ministry of Tourism

[B] Ministry of Home Affairs
[C] Ministry of Tribal Affairs
[D] Ministry of Cultural Affairs
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of Tourism]
Notes:
Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has recently inaugurated a new Project namely- “Development of Tribal
Circuit : Peren-Kohima-Wokha Project” at Kisama Heritage Village in Nagaland. under the Swadesh
Darshan Scheme. This is the first project to be implemented in the state under Swadesh Darshan
Scheme of Union Ministry of Tourism. The project was sanctioned by the Ministry of Tourism in
November 2015 for Rs. 97.36 Crores. Under the project the Ministry has developed facilities like Tribal
Tourist Village, Eco Log Huts, Open Air Theatre, Tribal Rejuvenation Centre, Cafeteria, Helipad, Tourist
Interpretation Centre, Wayside Amenities, Last Mile Connectivity, Public Conveniences, Multipurpose
Hall, Nature Trails, Trekking Routes etc. In addition to the above project, the Ministry has sanctioned
another project in Nagaland “Development of Tribal circuit: Mokokchung–Tuensang-Mon” for Rs.99.67
crore. The implementation of the project is in progress.
54. India’s longest rail-road bridge ‘Bogibeel Bridge’ has built over which of the following rivers?
[A] Ganga PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
[B] Godavari
[C] Yamuna
[D] Brahmaputra
Correct Answer: D [Brahmaputra ]
Notes:
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate the India’s longest rail-road bridge – Bogibeel Bridge on
December 25, which is also marked as the Good Governance Day (GGD). The 4.94 km long bridge
connects the north and south banks of the Brahmaputra & falls in the eastern part of Assam and
Arunachal Pradesh. The bridge, which has been constructed by the Indian Railways, is 32m above the
water level of the river and will provide connectivity to the northeast. Bogibeel is part of infrastructure
projects planned by India to improve logistics along the border in Arunachal Pradesh. This includes the
construction of a trans-Arunachal highway on the north bank of the Brahmaputra, and new road and rail
links over the mighty river and its major tributaries such as the Dibang, Lohit, Subansiri and Kameng.
India and China share a nearly 4,000 km border.
55. Which of the following cities is the venue of the India Water Impact Summit-2018?
[A] Patna
[B] Guwahati
[C] New Delhi
[D] Amravati
Correct Answer: C [New Delhi]
Notes:
On December 5, India Water Impact Summit (IWIS-2018) has been inaugurated by Union Minister Nitin
Gadkari in New Delhi. The discussions this year will be on the rejuvenation of the Ganga River Basin.
Here, the spotlight will be on 5 states viz. Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Delhi and Bihar, to
showcase the efforts and works going on within the respective states. The 2018 Summit also introduced
the inaugural Ganga Financing Forum (GFF) that will bring a number of institutions to a common
knowledge, information and partnership platform. The 3-days summit is jointly organized by the
National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG) and the Centre for Ganga River Basin Management and
Studies (cGanga). The Summit is an annual event where stakeholders will discuss and develop model
solutions for some of the biggest water-related problems in the country. Nearly 200 domestic and
international participants from nearly 15 countries are participating in the summit.
56. Which union ministry has signed pact with Madame Tussauds Wax Museum to foster
tourism?
[A] Ministry of Defence

[B] Ministry of Tourism

[C] Ministry of Railways
[D] Ministry of Women and Child Development
Correct Answer: C [Ministry of Railways]
Notes:
Ministry of Railways’ National Rail Museum (NRM) has signed pact with Madame Tussauds Wax
Museum (MTWM) to foster tourism in Delhi NCR. It is first time ever public-private museum
collaboration that shall attract more tourists to both NRM and MTWM. As a part of the collaboration, a
special discount of 35% on ticket prices will be offered to NRM visitors when they visit Madame
Tussauds Museum. Similarly, MTWM visitors will be getting an attractive discount of 30% on combo
packages of NRM. In addition, there will be a special provision for school groups. School children will be
able to enjoy both museums at a 45% discount. This will help in promoting railway heritage and also
enable children to learn about national heroes, thereby making the student excursion more inclusive,
holistic and interesting. MTWM is the 23rd Wax museum of Madame Tussauds in Connaught Place (CP),
New Delhi. This is the first wax museum in India of this renowned brand.
57. Which of the following is the India’s heaviest communication satellite i.e. recently launched
successfully from French Guiana?
[A] GSAT-10 PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
[B] GSAT-17
[C] GSAT-11
[D] GSAT-9
Correct Answer: C [GSAT-11]
Notes:
On December 4, ISRO’s heaviest and most advanced high throughput communication satellite ‘GSAT-11’
was successfully launched by an European Ariane-5 vehicle (Flight VA246) rocket from Guiana Space
Centre at Kourou in French Guiana. Initially, the satellite is placed in the Geosynchronous Transfer Orbit
(GTO) and will be raised to the Geostationary Orbit (36,000 km above the equator) through phase-wise
orbit-raising manoeuvres in the days ahead, using its on-board propulsion systems. GSAT-11 will be
positioned at 74-degree east longitude in the geostationary orbit.The mission of the 5,854-kg giant ‘bird’
is to provide high data rate connectivity to users of Indian mainland and islands through 32 user beams
in Ku-band and 8 hub beams in Ka-band. It will boost the broadband connectivity to rural and
inaccessible Gram Panchayats under BharatNet Project which is part of the Digital India initiative. The
satellite is capable of providing high bandwidth connectivity with speeds of up to 16 gigabytes per
second. GSAT-11’ s co-passenger is South Korea’s GEO-KOMPSAT-2A, a meteorology satellite.
58. Asian Games gold medalist Swapna Barman has become the brand ambassador for digital
banking platform ‘YONO’. The app is offered by which of the following banks?
[A] BOI
[B] SBI
[C] PNB
[D] BOB
Correct Answer: B [SBI]
Notes:
Asian Games gold medalist Swapna Barman has become the brand ambassador for State Bank of India
(SBI)’s unified integrated app ‘YONO (You Only Need One)’. Through YONO, users are capable to access a
variety of financial and other services such as taxi bookings, online shopping, or medical bill payments. It
is the first digital banking platform that offers customised products and offers from over 60 e-commerce
players. This is also the first to offer online purchase and view of insurance policies without redirecting
customers to the respective service providers. It can be accessed through mobile phones and on the web.
Hails from West Bengal, Barman clinched gold in the women’s heptathlon with 6026 points at the 18th
Asian Games 2018 in Jakarta. With this, she created history by becoming the first Indian heptathlete to
win an Asian Games gold.
59. Who is the author of the book ‘Blue Waters Ahoy!’?
[A] Anup Singh

[B] Sunil Lanba

[C] Robin K Dhowan
[D] Devendra Kumar Joshi
Correct Answer: A [Anup Singh]
Notes:
The book titled ‘Blue Waters Ahoy!’ has been authored by Vice Admiral Anup Singh, who retired as the
Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Eastern Naval Command in 2011. The book, which chronicles the
Indian Navy’s History from 2001-10, has recently released by Admiral Sunil Lanba, Chief of the Naval
Staff. This is, in fact, the 6th volume of the Navy’s history; the first five having covered the period from
1945 to 2000. This unique undertaking by the Indian Navy can be traced back to 1968, when the Service
established a History Cell. The idea was collation and subsequent analysis of historical data relevant to
the evolution of the Navy. Generally, each such volume has covered the period of a decade, and it has
been a tradition to release it on the occasion of Navy Day (4th December).
60. Nel Jayaraman, who passed away recently, was the noted personality of which field?
[A] Agriculture
[B] Politics
[C] Sports
[D] Law PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: A [Agriculture]

Notes:
Noted agriculturalist Nel Jayaraman (54), who pioneered the protection and propagation of indigenous
paddy varieties in Tamil Nadu, passed away in Chennai on December 6, 2018. Hailing from
Thiruthuraipoondi, in the heart of Tamil Nadu’s delta rice bowl, Jayaraman has been credited with
documenting and protecting more than 170 paddy varieties.His diligent work in the field of protecting
the gene prototypes of indigenous paddy varieties won him the National Award in 2015 and a state
award in 2011.
61. Kandhamal Haldi, which is in news for its GI tag, is produce in which of the following states?
[A] Jharkhand
[B] Tripura
[C] Odisha
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: C [Odisha]
Notes:
Odisha’s Kandhamal Haldi (turmeric variety), famous for its healing properties, will soon gets
Geographical Indications (GI) tag. Its registration was applied by Kandhamal Apex Spices Association for
Marketing (KASAM) and was accepted under sub-section (1) of Section 13 of the Geographical Indications
of Goods (Registration and Protection) Act, 1999. A GI is a sign used on products that have a specific
geographical origin and possess qualities or a reputation that are due to that origin.The golden yellow
spice is named after the district where it is produced, has been cultivated since time immemorial and is
known for its medicinal value. It is the main cash crop of tribal people in Kandhamal. More than 60,000
families (nearly 50% of Kandhamal population) are engaged in growing the variety. Apart from domestic
use, turmeric is also used for cosmetic and medicinal purposes.
62. Which Indian Armed Force has recently conducted ‘Ex Clean Sea-2018’ at sea off Port Blair?
[A] Indian Navy
[B] Indian Air Force
[C] Indian Army
[D] Indian Coast Guard
Correct Answer: D [Indian Coast Guard]
Notes:
The Indian Coast Guard has conducted the Regional Level Marine Oil Pollution Response Exercise titled
‘Clean Sea – 2018’ at sea off Port Blair on December 6. Coast Guard ships Viswasth, Vijith, Rajveer,
Rajshri, 4 interceptor boats and its air assets Dornier and Chetak helicopters participated in the

exercise.The preparedness of all agencies during the exercise was conducted under observation of
Inspector General Maneesh V Pathak, Commander Coast Guard Region (Andaman and Nicobar Islands)
and was overseen by Chief Secretary of Andaman and Nicobar Administration Shri Chetan B Sanghi,
who embarked onboard Coast Guard Ship Vijith.
63. ‘Ideate for India’ is the joint collaboration between National e-governance Division and which
technological giant?
[A] Infosys
[B] Microsoft
[C] Facebook
[D] Intel
Correct Answer: D [Intel]
Notes:
Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad has launched National Challenge for Youths ‘Ideate for India –
creative solutions using technology’ at New Delhi on December 6. The aim of this National Challenge is
to give school students across the country a platform and opportunity to become solution creators for
the problems they see around them and their communities. It is open to students of classes 6 – 12 all
across the country – all 29 States and 7 Union Territories and aims to reach out to at least 1 million
youth over the next 3 months. “Ideate forPRAVEEN
India” will help inculcate innovation skills in youth and equip
all students to utilise technology for the betterment of their communities and the society at large.
Simultaneously, this will prepare them to contribute towards the realization of Digital India goals. The
challenge has been designed and launched by the National e-governance Division in collaboration with
Intel India, with support from the Department of School Education and Literacy (DoSE&L) of Ministry of
Human Resources Development (HRD).
64. Who among the following have won the IAAF Athletes of the Year award recently?
[A] Eliud Kipchoge
[B] Caterine Ibarguen
[C] Both A and B
[D] Valerie Adams
Correct Answer: C [Both A and B]
Notes:
Kenyan distance runner Eliud Kipchoge, and Colombian long & triple jumper Caterine Ibarguen have
been named male and female world athletes of the year at the IAAF Athletics Awards 2018. The pair were
honoured by the IAAF at the Grimaldi Forum in Monaco.
65. Which former Indian diplomat has been elected to an Asia Pacific seat on the UN’s Committee
on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR)?
[A] Nirupama Rao
[B] Preeti Saran
[C] Meera Shankar
[D] Lalit Mansingh
Correct Answer: B [Preeti Saran]
Notes:
Preeti Saran, a former senior Indian diplomat, has been elected unopposed to an Asia Pacific seat on the
UN’s Committee on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (CESCR) for a four-year term beginning on the
1st of January 2019. Members of the CESCR serve in their personal capacities as experts and do not
represent their countries even though they may have been nominated by their own nation. All States
parties are obliged to submit regular reports to the committee on how the rights are being implemented.
States must report initially within two years of accepting the Covenant and thereafter every five years.
The committee examines each report and addresses its concerns and recommendations to the State
party in the form of concluding observations. The panel meets in Geneva and holds two sessions per
year. The other Asian member is Shiqiu Chen of China, whose term ends in 2022.
66. Which state government has launched SMART initiative for agribusiness & rural

transformation?
[A] Kerala
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: C [Maharashtra]
Notes:
In a bid to transform rural Maharashtra, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has launched a unique
initiative called “SMART”, which stands for State of Maharashtra’s Agribusiness and Rural
Transformation. This World Bank assisted project aims to revamp agricultural value chains, with special
focus on marginal farmers across 1,000 villages. The initiative will support post-harvest value chain and
bring efficiency to benefit economy at large. Stimulating small and medium enterprises within the value
chain, the project seeks to establish partnership between the various stakeholders in the agri-business
segments including farmer organisations, start-ups, SMEs and large corporates along with women’s
self-help groups. The project will entail an investment of $300 million of which World Bank would
contribute $210 million. Almost 50 MoUs, involving top corporate houses like Amazon and Tata were
signed on the occasion.
67. What is the India’s position in terms of CO2 emitter in 2017, as per recent study by Global
Carbon Project?
[A] 5th
[B] 4th
[C] 6th
[D] 7th
Correct Answer: B [4th]
Notes:
According to the study by the Global Carbon Project, India is the fourth highest emitter of CO2 (carbon
dioxide) in the world, accounting for 7% of global emissions in 2017. India’s emissions look set to
continue their strong growth by an average of 6.3% in 2018, with growth across all fuels — coal (7.1%), oil
(2.9%) and gas (6%). The world’s top 10 Co2 emitters were China, the US, the EU, India, Russia, Japan,
Germany, Iran, Saudi Arabia and South Korea. The study said that while China and India still rely heavily
on coal, the US and the EU are slowly decarbonising. It further said that India can continue to deploy
solar farms, leveraging its leadership of the International Solar Alliance (ISA) to displace coal and clean
up its smog-choked cities. The study was recently released on the occasion of the 2018 UN Climate
Summit (COP24) in Katowice, Poland. It warned that global emissions of Co2 from fossil fuels and
industry are projected to rise for the second consecutive year in 2018 by more than two percent to a new
record mainly due to sustained growth in oil and gas use.
68. What is the theme of the 2018 World Soil Day (WSD)?
[A] Be the Solution to Soil Pollution
[B] Healthy soils for a healthy life
[C] Soils & Pulses: Symbiosis for life
[D] Soil day for future life
Correct Answer: A [Be the Solution to Soil Pollution]
Notes:
The World Soil Day (WSD) is observed every year on December 5 to focus attention on the importance of
healthy soil and advocating for the sustainable management of soil resources. The 2018 theme is ‘Be the
Solution to Soil Pollution’. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), Soil holds 3 times
as much carbon as the atmosphere and can help meet the challenges of a changing climate. It further
stated that 815 million people are food insecure and 2 billion people are nutritionally insecure, but it can
be mitigated through soil. 95% of food comes from soil and 33% of the global soils are already degraded.
In wake of this cause, the Government of India (GoI) has launched nationwide Soil Health Card Scheme
(SHCS) to take care of Soil Health for the first time in a uniform manner to evaluate the soil fertility
across the country. Soil health card provides information to the farmers on fertility status of their soil
and enables them to apply soil health card based recommended dosages of fertilizers including micro-
nutrients, bio-fertilizers, manures as well as soil ameliorants. It is helpful in checking the declining

fertility of agriculture land and improve the fertility of soils to increase productivity besides enhancing
farmers income.
69. Who has been appointed the new Chief Economic Advisor (CEA)?
[A] Pranab Bardhan
[B] Jayati Ghosh
[C] Jagdish Bhagwati
[D] Krishnamurthy Subramanian
Correct Answer: D [Krishnamurthy Subramanian]
Notes:
Dr Krishnamurthy Subramanian has been appointed the new Chief Economic Advisor (CEA) for a period
of three years. The post of CEA had been lying vacant since Arvind Subramanaian left the finance
ministry after a four-year stint. Dr Krishnamurthy is currently working as an Associate Professor and
the executive director at the Indian School of Business (IBS), Hyderabad. The CEA is the ex-officio cadre
controlling authority of the Indian Economic Service (IES) & is under the direct charge of the Minister of
Finance.
70. Maulana Asrar-ul-Haque Qasmi, who passed away recently, was the Lok Sabha MP from which
Bihar constituency? PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
[A] Hajipur
[B] Aurangabad
[C] Katihar
[D] Kishanganj
Correct Answer: D [Kishanganj ]
Notes:
Maulana Asrar-ul-Haque Qasmi (76), noted Islamic scholar and Congress Lok Sabha MP from Bihar’s
Kishanganj constituency, has passed away on December 7, 2018. Qasmi won the Kishanganj seat in 2009
general elections by contesting on an Indian National Congress ticket after five consecutive failures. He
retained his constituency in the 2014 general elections by defeating BJP’s Dilip Kumar Jaiswal. He was a
member of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board and also a founder member of the All India Milli
Council.
71. Which short story writer has bagged 2018 Sahitya Academy Award for the Kashmiri language?
[A] Rehman Rahi
[B] Mushtaq Ahmad Tantray
[C] Nayantara Sahgal
[D] Rahman Abbas
Correct Answer: B [Mushtaq Ahmad Tantray]
Notes:
Mushtaq Ahmad Tantray, a prominent Kashmiri short-story writer and eminent broadcaster, bagged
2018 Sahitya Academy Award for his collection of short stories “AAKH’’. Mr Tantray is presently posted
as Head of the Regional News Unit at Radio Kashmir Srinagar. “AAKH”, a collection of eighteen short
stories, published in 2012 had earlier bagged the best book award in Kashmiri at the state level from
State Academy of Art, Culture and Languages for the year 2014.
72. The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has decided to observe which year as the
International Year of Millets?
[A] 2021
[B] 2024
[C] 2023
[D] 2022
Correct Answer: C [2023 ]
Notes:
The UN Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) has approved India’s proposal to observe 2023 as the

International Year of Millets. This decision was taken at the 160th session of FAO Council, currently
underway in Rome. The move will enhance global awareness to bring back these nutri-cereals to the
plate. In addition, the FAO Council has also approved India’s membership to the Executive Board of the
United Nations World Food Program for 2020 and 2021. Millets consists of Jowar, Bajra, Ragi and minor
millets together termed as nutri-cereals.
73. Which country’s government has recently enacted controversial law to accept foreign blue-
collar workers?
[A] Indonesia
[B] South Korea
[C] North Korea
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: D [Japan]
Notes:
On December 8, the Japanese government enacted a new law to bring more blue-collar foreign workers
into the country, in a controversial move to address chronic labour shortages. Under the new law, Japan
plans to bring in 345,000 foreign workers in construction, food services, nursing and other sectors for 5
years. The law will take effect in April 2019 and create two new visa categories. The first status allows
foreign nationals with skills in sectors facing severe shortages to obtain five-year visas, which will not
allow them to bring their families. The second status allows foreign workers in those fields who hold
stronger qualifications and pass a more difficult Japanese language test will be able to obtain a visa that
can be extended indefinitely, eventually leading to residency, and will be able to bring over family.
74. Which country is set become the world’s first country to make all its public transport free by
2019?
[A] Laos
[B] Venezuela
[C] Vietnam
[D] Luxembourg
Correct Answer: D [Luxembourg ]
Notes:
Luxembourg is set to become the first country in the world to make all its public transport free by 2019.
The move is aimed at addressing environmental issues and the problem of traffic congestion. Apart from
providing free public transport, Luxembourg also intends to legalise cannabis and introduce two new
public holidays. Earlier, Luxembourg introduced free transport for all people under the age of 20.
75. What is the theme of the 2018 International Volunteer Day (IVD)?
[A] Volunteers build Resilient Communities
[B] Volunteers Act First
[C] Global Applause – give volunteers a hand
[D] Your world is changing
Correct Answer: A [Volunteers build Resilient Communities]
Notes:
The International Volunteer Day (IVD) is observed every year by The United Nations (UN) on December
5 to recognise the volunteers worldwide and their efforts in making peace and sustainable development
a reality. It offers an opportunity for volunteer-involving organizations and individual volunteers to
promote volunteerism, encourage governments to support volunteer efforts and recognize volunteer
contributions to the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) at local, national and
international levels. The 2018 theme “Volunteers build Resilient Communities” focuses on how
volunteers can build resilient communities. The IVD 2018 celebrates volunteer efforts that strengthen
local ownership and the resilience of the community in the face of natural disasters, economic stresses
and political shocks.
76. Which union ministry has been conferred the Skoch Award for National Significance?
[A] Ministry of New and Renewable Energy

[B] Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation

[C] Ministry of Women and Child Development
[D] Ministry of Railways
Correct Answer: A [Ministry of New and Renewable Energy]
Notes:
The Ministry of New and Renewable Energy (MNRE), the nodal Ministry of the Government of India
(GoI), has been conferred the Skoch Award for National Significance at an event held recently in New
Delhi. The award was received by Secretary of MNRE, Anand Kumar. The award has been conferred on
the Ministry considering its purpose and critical role played in installing about 73 GW renewable energy
capacity in the country. With 21% of total installed capacity, within the year renewable energy grossed a
magic figure of providing one billion units of electricity in the country. Today, India ranked 4th in the
world in wind energy capacity and 5th in solar & total renewable energy capacity installed in the world.
India has played a critical role in setting up of international solar alliance. Further, India moved a
resolution during the first meeting for making it a global initiative.
77. Which state is the venue of the 2018 Startup India Venture Capital Summit?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Goa
[C] Kerala PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
[D] Tamil Nadu

Correct Answer: B [Goa]
Notes:
On December 07, the Annual Startup India Venture Capital Summit 2018 has been organised by the
Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) in collaboration with the Government of Goa with
theme ‘Mobilizing Global Capital for Innovation in India’ in Goa. The focus of the Summit was on the
huge return-generating potential of India’s vast and diverse market monetized through cutting-edge
technologies and supported by investor-friendly regulations. The event showcased the Indian startup
opportunity for funds from around the world. Over 150 participants attended the event. The
International Finance Corporation (IFC), a sister organisation of the World Bank Group, and the Indian
Private Equity and Venture Capital Association (IVCA) were partners for this initiative.
78. Which of the following has become the India’s 2nd container cargo sector on Inland
Waterways (IW)?
[A] Kochi-Mumbai
[B] Kolkata-Patna
[C] Kolkata-Dispur
[D] Kochi-Chennai
Correct Answer: B [Kolkata-Patna]
Notes:
Kolkata-Patna has become the India’s second container cargo sector on Inland Waterways. The Inland
Waterways Authority of India’s (IWAI) vessel ‘MV RN Tagore’ will be the first cargo vessel to reach
Patna’s Gaighat IWT terminal on river Ganga (National Waterway-1). On December 6, the vessel sailed
from Kolkata’s Garden Reach Jetty with the PepsiCo and Emami Agrotech products. It will reach the
IWT terminal at Patna in 6-7 days after an 815 kms long voyage on river Ganga (National Waterway-1).
The cargo will be unloaded at IWAI’s inter-modal terminal at Gaighat in Patna from where onward cargo
will be loaded. Earlier, on 12th November 2018, the Prime Minister Narendra Modi had received the
India’s first IWT containerised cargo that reached Varanasi from Kolkata. The Ministry of Shipping is
developing NW-1 (River Ganga) under Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) from Haldia to Varanasi (1390 Km)
with the technical and financial assistance of the World Bank at an estimated cost of Rs 5369 crore. The
project would enable commercial navigation of vessels with capacity of 1500-2,000 DWT.
79. ‘AI 4 All Global Hackathon’ has been launched by NITI Aayog in partnership with which
county’s AI start up?
[A] Singapore
[B] Japan

[C] France
[D] South Korea
Correct Answer: A [Singapore]
Notes:
Government think tank Niti Aayog has partnered with Perlin – a Singapore-based AI start up – to
launch the ‘AI 4 All Global Hackathon’ for developing solutions aimed at creating social and economic
impact in the country. The purpose of this hackathon is to promote awareness and subsequently develop
solutions that deliver the twin benefit of efficient computing to address the infrastructure challenges.
The hackathon will be run in two stages with stage one ending on January 15, 2019 and stage two, which
will only include shortlisted participants from the previous stage, will conclude on March 15, 2019. The
first stage will invite ideas for use cases of multi-party computation in areas such as Healthcare,
Education, Agriculture, Urbanization, Financial Inclusion. The second stage will call for these ideas to be
matured and developed, with a focus on privacy preserving AI and distributed computing. Over 2,000
submissions were received of which Top 10 teams were awarded at the summit.
80. PRASAD Scheme, which is in news recently, was launched on behalf of which union ministry?
[A] Ministry of Human Resource Development
[B] Ministry of Tourism
[C] Ministry of Science and TechnologyPRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
[D] Ministry of Women and Child Development
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Tourism ]
Notes:
Under PRASAD Scheme, the Government of India (GoI) has recently included Gangotri and Yamunotri in
Uttrarakhand, Amarkantak in Madhya Pradesh and Parasnath in Jharkhand to develop pilgrimage and
heritage destinations in the country. With the new additions, the number of sites under the scheme has
now become 41 in 25 states. The acronym ‘PRASAD’ stands for ‘Pilgrimage Rejuvenation and Spiritual,
Heritage Augmentation Drive’. It was launched by Ministry of Tourism in 2014-15. The scheme aimed at
infrastructure development such as entry points (road, rail and water transport), last mile connectivity,
basic tourism facilities like Information/ Interpretation Centers, ATM/ money exchange, eco-friendly
modes of transport, lighting and illumination with renewable sources of energy, parking, drinking
water, toilets, cloak room, waiting rooms, first aid centers, craft bazars /haats/ souvenir shops/ cafeteria,
rain shelters, telecom facilities, internet connectivity etc.
81. Which state government has launched ‘Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana’ for senior citizens?
[A] Odisha
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Delhi
[D] Punjab
Correct Answer: C [Delhi ]
Notes:
The Delhi government has recently launched the ‘Mukhyamantri Tirth Yatra Yojana’ for senior citizens
— which offers free travel packages on five religious circuits for senior citizens from the national
capital. The scheme will enable 1,100 senior citizens from each Assembly constituency of Delhi per year
to undertake free pilgrimage, the expenses for which will be borne by the Delhi government. Under the
scheme, any resident of Delhi above 60 years of age will be eligible for the scheme and those above 70
years can have one attendant. The scheme does not have any income criterion, but preference will be
given to those who are from the economically weaker section. It will be given out on first-come-first-
served basis. The pilgrimage duration will be of three days and two nights and will be for any of the
following routes: Delhi-Mathura-Vrindavan-Agra-Fatehpur Sikri-Delhi; Delhi-Haridwar-Rishikesh-
Neelkanth-Delhi; Delhi-Ajmer-Pushkar-Delhi; Delhi-Amritsar-Wagah border-Anandpur Sahib-Delhi; or
Delhi-Vaishno Devi-Jammu-Delhi.
82. Who has won the ‘Glinka World Soil Prize 2018’?
[A] Aapresid
[B] Rattan Lal
[C] Augustin Codazzi

[D] Konstantin Glinka

Correct Answer: B [Rattan Lal]
Notes:
Prof. Rattan Lal , a distinguished university professor of soil science at the Ohio State University, has
won the ‘Glinka World Soil Prize 2018’ in a ceremony at the headquarters of UN FAO in Rome for his
remarkable contribution to sustainable soil management. The Glinka World Soil Prize, named after the
pioneering Russian scientist Konstantin D. Glinka, is considered the highest honour in the soil science
profession. Lal was born in Gujranwala in West Punjab, Pakistan, and his family came to India as
refugees in 1948. He studied in India and later came to the US to work on his doctorate in soils, which he
completed in 1968. He has been listed among the World’s Most Influential Scientific Minds (2012) and
among the top one per cent of all researchers in agriculture.
83. Ajay Rohera, who has created world record for highest first-class debut score in cricket
history, is from which state?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Jharkhand
Correct Answer: C [Madhya Pradesh] PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Notes:
On October 8, Rookie Madhya Pradesh opener Ajay Rohera has created world record for highest first-
class score on debut. He scored 267 not out against Hyderabad in their Ranji Trophy Elite Group-B
Cricket in Indore. The record was earlier held by former Mumbai stalwart Amol Muzumdar, who had hit
260 versus Haryana at Faridabad in 1994. Beside this, Rohera also became the highest individual scorer
for Madhya Pradesh surpassing JP Yadav’s 265.
84. Which of the following states has become the India’s first state to have four international
airports?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Maharashtra
[C] West Bengal
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: D [Kerala ]
Notes:
Kerala has become the first state in India to have four international airports with the inauguration of the
Kannur airport on December 9, 2018. The Kannur airport is spread across over 2,000 acres and can
handle around 2,000 passengers at a time. The runway is currently 3,050m long and will be extended to
4,000m. The airport, built on a public-private partnership (PPP) mode, may also increase the inter-trade
in sectors such as spices and handloom. Mural paintings depicting the heritage of Malabar and Indian
dance forms, including Theyyam of north Kerala, Kathakali and Yakshagana, the traditional theatre art
form of Karnataka, are among the art works that vie for attention at the airport. The three other
international airports are at Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode.
85. Who has won the trophy of Mister Supranational 2018?
[A] Prathamesh Maulingkar
[B] Jitesh Singh Deo
[C] Vishnu Raj Menon
[D] Kawaljit Anand Singh
Correct Answer: A [Prathamesh Maulingkar]
Notes:
Prathamesh Maulingkar from India has created history by becoming the first Asian/Indian to win 2018
Mister Supranational title in a competition held in in Krynica-Zdroj, Poland. He defeated 37 contestants
from all over the world in the final round to win the coveted title. At the same pageant, Mister
Supranational Poland was adjudged first runner-up, Mister Supranational Brazil was adjudged second

runner-up and Mister Supranational Thailand was announced as the third runner-up.
86. On which date India Navy celebrated the Submarine Day?
[A] December 10
[B] December 11
[C] December 8
[D] December 9
Correct Answer: C [December 8]
Notes:
The Submarine Day is celebrated every year by the Indian Navy on December 8 to commemorate the
induction of the first submarine, the erstwhile INS Kalvari, into the Indian Navy on this day in 1967. The
Foxtrot class submarine was decommissioned on the 31st May, 1996, after 29 years of service.
87. What is the name of China mission launched to the far side of the Moon recently?
[A] Chang ‘e-4’
[B] Tang ‘e-9’
[C] Karman
[D] Lunar ‘e-4’ PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: A [Chang ‘e-4’]

Notes:
On December 7, China has launched its first-ever space mission ‘Chang’e-4’ to land a robotic craft on the
far side of the Moon. It was launched on a Long March 3B rocket from the southwestern Xichang launch
centre, which will explore the Von Karman crater. The mission, which consists of a stationary lander and
a rover, will perform a variety of science work and plant a flag for humanity in a region that remains
largely unexplored to date. No lander or rover has ever touched the surface there, hence positioning
China as the first nation to explore the terrain. The mission will pave the way for the country to deliver
samples of Moon rock and soil to Earth. The moon’s far side is also known as the dark side because it
faces away from Earth and remains comparatively unknown. If successful, the mission would propel the
Chinese space program to a leading position in one of the most important areas of lunar exploration. The
name “Chang’e” comes from the Chinese goddess of the moon, and the “4” indicates that this is the 4th
robotic mission in China’s decade-long lunar exploration program.
88. Which IIT has won the DSCI Excellence Award 2018 for cyber security education?
[A] IIT Kanpur
[B] IIT Kharagpur
[C] IIT Indore
[D] IIT Bombay
Correct Answer: B [IIT Kharagpur]
Notes:
IIT Kharagpur has won the DSCI Excellence Award 2018 for cyber security education by Data Security
Council of India (DSCI), an industry body on data protection set up up by NASSCOM. The institute was
awarded for its focused curricula and research work in cryptography, hardware security, cyber security,
Internet of Things (IoT) security, and network security. A number of research ventures led by Professor
Debdeep Mukhopadhyay at the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at IIT Kharagpur
were primarily considered for this award. Some of the ventures include the Defence Research and
Development Organisation (DRDO)-funded projects on developing lightweight protocols for
authenticating IoT nodes, IC reverse engineering and trojan detection and the DST-funded
‘Swarnajayanti’ project on secure authentication protocols for smart grids.
89. Which city is the venue of the 2018 Military Literature Festival (MLF)?
[A] Chandigarh
[B] Dehradun
[C] Hyderabad
[D] New Delhi

Correct Answer: A [Chandigarh ]

Notes:
On December 7, the 2nd edition of Military Literature Festival (MLF) 2018 was held in Chandigarh with
an aim to offer an opportunity for the younger generation to get acquainted with India’s glorious
military heritage. It also brought a host of cultural activities, food cuisines and competitions to the
public. Besides, marshal dances, weapons display, medallion gallery, artists’ corner, cultural activities
and exhibitions, food and cuisine, book fair, children’s Saragarhi Samvadh are amongst other activities to
reverberate the minds of participants and visitors with tales of India’s soldiers during the three-day
event. The fest was also dedicated to the valour of over 74,000 Indians who had laid down their lives in
World War I. This year also marks the centenary of the Great War of 1914-1918. The fest was a joint
initiative of military historian and Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh and Punjab Governor
VP Singh Badnore.
90. Who has become the youngest Indian golfer to win Asian Tour Order Of Merit?
[A] Shubhankar Sharma
[B] Shiv Kapur
[C] Aditi Ashok
[D] Arjun Atwal
Correct Answer: A [Shubhankar Sharma]PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
Notes:
On December 8, Shubhankar Sharma has become the fifth and the youngest Indian golfer to clinch the
Asian Tour Order of Merit after a groundbreaking year of achievements. With this achievement, He
joined the exclusive club of Indians who have achieved the feat in the past – Jyoti Randhawa (2002),
Arjun Atwal (2003), Jeev Milkha Singh (2006 and 2008) and Anirban Lahiri (2015).
91. Dr. Rajanish Giri has been awarded the DBT Innovative Young Biotechnologist Award (IYBA)
2018 for his proposed innovative idea on______?
[A] Ebola virus
[B] Chikungunya
[C] HIV
[D] Zika virus
Correct Answer: D [Zika virus]
Notes:
Dr. Rajanish Giri, an assistant professor at IIT Mandi, has been awarded the DBT Innovative Young
Biotechnologist Award (IYBA) 2018. Dr. Giri is selected for his proposed innovative idea on Zika virus
Capsid Folding and inhibitor discovery. Additionally, he has proven expertise on understanding and
solving the fundamental problems of protein folding in various structured and Intrinsically Disordered
Proteins. He was selected by the Department of Biotechnology (DBT) of Ministry of Science and
Technology. Additionally, under the supervision of Dr. Giri, a PhD Scholar ‘Nitin Sharma from IIT Mandi’
received ‘Newton Bhabha Doctoral Placement Grant.
92. The Central Government contribution in National Pension Scheme (NPS) has raised to how
much percentage from the existing 10%?
[A] 14%
[B] 15%
[C] 16%
[D] 13%
Correct Answer: A [14%]
Notes:
The Union Cabinet has recently raised the government’s contribution to National Pension Scheme (NPS)
to 14% of basic salary from the current 10%. However, minimum employee contribution will remain at
10%. The Cabinet also allowed government employees to commute 60% of the fund accumulated at the
time of retirement, up from 40% at present. Also, employees will have the option to invest in either fixed
income instruments or equities. As per the Cabinet decision, if the employee decides not to commute
any portion of the accumulated fund in NPS at the time of retirement and transfers 100% to annuity

scheme, then his pension would be more than 50% of his last drawn pay. The following changes will
come into effect from the beginning of a financing year, meaning April 1, 2019.
93. Which of the following district Courts will become the first in India to accept e-payments?
[A] Delhi
[B] Pune
[C] Kolkata
[D] Chennai
Correct Answer: B [Pune ]
Notes:
After the approval of the Supreme Court and the Bombay High Court, a pilot project for e-payments
service will be started at the Pune District Court complex in Shivajinagar on December 15 to bring
transparency to cash transactions. The facility will be available into the nazar (clerical) offices in the
court, and civil lawyers & litigants can pay court fees, various fines, penalties, judicial deposits, rent,
maintenance, etc. The e-payment facility will be available on ‘pay.ecourt.gov.in/epay’ and will help end
the serpentine queues on court premises to pay cash. Hence, this will be the first time such a facility is
being started anywhere in the country. There will be no extra charge for payments up to Rs 2,000, while
the Pune district court administration is also working to facilitate payments above Rs 2,000 at nil or
minimal cost through PoS or online services.
94. Which state tourism of India has hosted the first-ever AdventureNext 18 in Asia?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Mizoram
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Telangana
Correct Answer: C [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
The AdventureNext India 2018, the first-of-its-kind in India & Asia, was hosted by Madhya Pradesh
Tourism at the new International Convention Centre (Minto Hall) in Bhopal on December 3-5. The event
was organized by United states based Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA). The theme of the 2-
day event was ‘Pulse of Tomorrow’. The international event was focused on adventure tourism by
combining marketplace (chowk Bazar), meetings, networking opportunities, inspirational speakers and
educational sessions together for national and international delegates. Over 200 delegates participated
in the event.
95. On which date, the 2018 International Anti-Corruption Day is observed?
[A] December 10
[B] December 9
[C] December 11
[D] December 12
Correct Answer: B [December 9]
Notes:
The International Anti-Corruption Day is observed every year on December 9 to raise public awareness
about corruption and how to fight it. The day is also observed in recognition of the United Nations
Convention against corruption which was signed in Mexico in 2003.
96. Which of the following has become the new district of Arunachal Pradesh?
[A] Lepa Rada
[B] Pakke-Kessang
[C] Manigong
[D] Shi Yomi
Correct Answer: D [Shi Yomi ]
Notes:
Shi Yomi has become the 23rd district of Arunachal Pradesh, after it was formally inaugurated by Chief

Minister Pema Khandu in presence of Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju. The district was
carved out of the West Siang district with its headquarters at Tato. It has four administrative units
namely Mechuka, Tato, Pidi and Manigong. Earlier, on 29th August 2018, the Arunachal Pradesh
Assembly passed a bill for the creation of 3 new districts — Pakke-Kesang, Lepa Rada and Shi Yomi.
Soon, two other districts will be fromalyy inaugurated, which takes the total districts in the state to 25.
The Pakke-Kessang district will be carved out of East Kameng district with five administrative units
namely Pakke-Kessangn, Seijosa, Pijiriang, Passa Valley and Dissingn Passo with district headquarters at
Lemmi. The other district Lepa Rada would be created by bifurcating the Lower Siang district with
headquarters at Basar with four administrative units – Tirbin, Basar, Daring and Sago.
97. As per latest report ‘Migration and Development Brief’, India is expected to retain its position
as the world’s top recipient of remittances in 2018. The report is released by which international
organisation?
[A] IMF
[B] World Bank
[C] AIIB
[D] UN
Correct Answer: B [World Bank]
Notes: PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
India is expected to retain its position as the world’s top recipient of remittances with $80 million in
2018, as per latest World Bank’s report ‘Migration and Development Brief’. India is followed by China
($67 billion), Mexico and the Philippines ($34 billion each) and Egypt ($26 billion). The bank estimates
that officially recorded remittances to developing countries will increase by 10.8% to reach US$528
billion in 2018, , against a 7.8% growth in 2017. The Global remittances, which include flows to high-
income countries, are projected to grow by 10.3% to $689 billion. For 2019, it is projected that
remittances growth for the region will slow to 4.3% due to a moderation of growth in advanced
economies, lower migration to the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the benefits from the oil price
spurt dissipating.
98. Which of the following organisations has released the Global Nutrition Report for 2018?
[A] FAO
[B] WHO
[C] UNESCO
[D] ILO
Correct Answer: B [WHO]
Notes:
As per WHO’s Global Nutrition Report (GNR 2018) report for 2018, India is facing a major malnutrition
crisis as it holds almost a third of the world’s burden for stunting. With 46.6 million children who are
stunted, India tops the list of countries followed by Nigeria and Pakistan. Stunting (or low height for age)
is caused by long-term insufficient nutrient-intake and frequent infections. India also accounted for 25.5
million children who are wasted, followed by Nigeria and Indonesia. Wasting (or low weight for height)
is a strong predictor of mortality among children under five. It is usually the result of acute significant
food shortage and/or disease. As per report, globally 150.8 million children under five years are stunted
and 50.5 million are wasted. India also figures among the set of countries that has more than a million
overweight children.
99. Which state government has recently launched a 24-hour helpline ‘181’ for women facing
harassment?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Odisha
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: A [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
On December 10, the Tamil Nadu government launched a 24-hour helpline ‘181’ for women facing

domestic violence and sexual harassment at home or workplaces. Through this initiative, they can
contact the toll-free helpline to get assistance ranging from police help, legal aid or medical services
including ambulance. The service will be available round-the-clock on all days of the week. • Apart from
offering authorities aid to victims of domestic violence, the helpline would assist ladies in receiving
information on welfare schemes aimed at their advantage. The helpline initiative has been made at a
expense of Rs 62.70 lakh.
100. Which Hockey Academy has clinched the 115th All India Aga Khan Gold Cup hockey
tournament 2018?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] SAIL
[D] Indian Railways
Correct Answer: C [SAIL]
Notes:
The Steel Authority of India (SAIL)’s Hockey Academy (SHA) has clinched the 115th All India Aga Khan
Gold Cup hockey tournament 2018 by defeating the Army XI Danapur in the final by 2-1 at Major Dhyan
Chand Hockey Stadium in New Delhi. Aga Khan Gold Cup is one of the oldest hockey tournaments in the
country. PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
101. Which city is the venue of the Intergovernmental Conference on the Global Compact for
Migration for year 2018?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Kathmandu
[C] Marrakech
[D] New York
Correct Answer: C [Marrakech]
Notes:
The Intergovernmental Conference to Adopt the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular
Migration was held in Marrakech, Morocco on 10th and 11th of December, 2018. It is the first-ever UN
global agreement on a common approach to international migration in all its dimensions. The global
compact is non-legally binding. It is grounded in values of state sovereignty, responsibility-sharing, non-
discrimination, and human rights, and recognizes that a cooperative approach is needed to optimize the
overall benefits of migration, while addressing its risks and challenges for individuals and communities
in countries of origin, transit and destination.
102. Who is the newly appointed Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?
[A] Arvind Panagariya
[B] Shaktikanta Das
[C] Kaushik Basu
[D] Rajiv Mehrishi
Correct Answer: B [Shaktikanta Das]
Notes:
Shaktikanta Das, a retired 1980 batch IAS officer of Tamil Nadu cadre, has been appointed as the 25th
Governor of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a period of 3 years. He succeeded the post after the
sudden resignation of Urjit Patel as the RBI Governor on December 10, 2018. Prior to this appointment,
he was the Member of the 15th Finance Commission and India’s sherpa at the 2018 G20 Summit. During
his career as an IAS officer, he served in various capacities for Indian and Tamil Nadu governments,
including as Economic Affairs Secretary of India, Revenue Secretary of India, Fertilizers Secretary of
India.
103. Which Twitter handle has been launched by the Union Government to spread awareness
about cyber crimes?
[A] @Cyber18
[B] @CyberFriend

[C] @CyberVigyan
[D] @CyberDost
Correct Answer: D [@CyberDost]
Notes:
The Union Ministry of Home Affairs has launched a Twitter account to spread awareness about cyber
crimes and normal precautions to be taken. The Twitter handles – @CyberDost – is aimed at enhancing
people’s basic knowledge about cyber crimes and precautions to be taken for prevention.
104. Which Indian sportsperson has been honoured with Meethoileima title?
[A] Heena Sidhu
[B] Mirabai Chanu
[C] Mary Kom
[D] Neeraj Chopra
Correct Answer: C [Mary Kom]
Notes:
Ace Indian pugilist MC Mary Kom has been honoured with the title “Meethoileima” (par excellent queen)
by the Manipur Government at a function in Imphal on December 11, 2018. Recently, Mary Kom has won
the historic sixth gold medal at the 2018 PRAVEEN
Women’s World Boxing
GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com | Championship in New Delhi. Now, she
is the most successful boxer in the history of the championship and won the gold exactly 16 years after
she had won it for the first time in 2002. She had won gold in 2002, 2005, 2006, 2008 and 2010 editions
of the Championship.
105. Jamal Khashoggi, who has been named Time magazine’s 2018 “Person of the Year”, is from
which country?
[A] Saudi Arabia
[B] Oman
[C] Iran
[D] Turkey
Correct Answer: A [Saudi Arabia]
Notes:
Saudi Arabian journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who was murdered in October 2018 at his country’s embassy
in Istanbul, has been named Time magazine’s “Person of the Year” for his work in journalism along with
other journalists who faced politcal persecution for their work. Time Magazine referred to Khashoggi as
a “Guardian of the Truth”. The magazine has also honoured Philippine journalist Maria Ressa, Reuters
reporters Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo — currently imprisoned in Myanmar among others.
106. Which Indian personality has been appointed as Vice-Chair of UN Panel of Auditors for 2019?
[A] Anupam Hazra
[B] R. Radhakrishnan
[C] Rajiv Mehrishi
[D] George Baker
Correct Answer: C [Rajiv Mehrishi]
Notes:
Rajiv Mehrishi, the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) of India, has been appointed as Vice-Chair of
UN Panel of Auditors for the year 2019. The United Nations Panel of Auditors consists of External
Auditors of the United Nations and its agencies. Presently, the panel consists of 11 countries — India,
Germany, Chile, Canada, France, Italy, Philippines, Ghana, Indonesia, Switzerland and United Kingdom.
Currently, the panel is chaired by CAG of the UK. The panel held its annual meeting in New York from 3
to 4 December 2018 and discussed various issues concerning audit of United Nations and the agencies
under the United Nations System.The panel also elected the CAG of the UK as Chair of the Panel for
another term (2019). The next meeting of the panel will be held in in Bonn, Germany in November-
December 2019.
107. Indo-China joint military exercise ‘Hand-in-Hand’ has started in which of the following

locations?
[A] Chengdu
[B] Tianjin
[C] Guangzhou
[D] Hangzhou
Correct Answer: A [Chengdu]
Notes:
The armies of India and China has started the 7th edition of joint military exercise ‘Hand-in-Hand 2018’
from Dec 11-23 at Chengdu in China. The purpose of the joint military drill is to improve the capabilities
of the two armies in fighting terrorism and promote mutual understanding. Both sides have fielded 100
personnel to take part in the exercise that focusses on tactical level operations in an International
Counter Insurgency/Counter Terrorist environment as per UN mandate. The drills are being held after a
gap of one year as they could not be held in 2017 because both armies were locked in a 73-day standoff at
Doklam in the Sikkim sector.
108. Who has been appointed as new SWIFT India Chairman?
[A] Sunil Mehta
[B] Ravi Venkatesan
[C] Arundhati Bhattacharya
[D] Girish Chandra Chaturvedi
Correct Answer: C [Arundhati Bhattacharya]
Notes:
Arundhati Bhattacharya, former chairman of State Bank of India (SBI) has been appointed as SWIFT
India Chairman. She will succeed former banker M V Nair. SWIFT India is a joint venture of top Indian
public and private sector banks and SWIFT (Society for Worldwide Interbank Financial
Telecommunication).
109. The portal ‘ENSURE’, which has been launched by Ministry of Agriculture for Direct Benefit
Transfer (DBT), was developed by which organisation?
[A] SIDBI
[B] NABARD
[C] National Housing Bank
[D] SEBI
Correct Answer: B [NABARD]
Notes:
Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Radha Mohan Singh launched an online portal
‘ENSURE’ – National Livestock Mission-EDEG developed by NABARD. The portal will be operated under
the Department of Animal Husbandry, Dairying & Fisheries. Under the Mission’s component called
Entrepreneurship Development and Employment Generation (EDEG), subsidy payment for activities
related to poultry, small ruminants, pigs etc. through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) goes directly to the
beneficiary’s account.The aim of the ENSURE is to connect with Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) and
provide simple, useful and transparent system to the beneficiary. Under the new process, controlling
officer/branch manager of the bank, after scrutinizing & sanctioning of proposal, uploads the subsidy
claims in the portal. The subsidy will be approved within 30 days from the date of sanction of loan.
110. Which Indian Armed Force has conducted its first-ever exercise ‘CROSS BOW-18’?
[A] Indian Navy
[B] Indian Coast Guard
[C] Indian Air Force
[D] Indian Army
Correct Answer: C [Indian Air Force]
Notes:
The Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully conducted its first-of-its-kind exercise code-named CROSS

BOW-18 from the Air Force Station at Suryalanka in Andhra Pradesh on 05th, 07th & 08th Dec 2018,
both by day & night in an integrated networked environment. It’s a combined guided weapons firing of
Surface-to-Air Missiles, which saw the successful firing of four different classes of missiles like Akash,
Spyder, OSA-AK-M and IGLA. The exercise helps improve the combat skills of the missile squadron crew
and also strengthen the country’s air defence preparedness.
111. Who has been selected for the Best Woman Parliamentarian (Rajya Sabha) for 2018?
[A] Nirmala Sitharaman
[B] Smriti Irani
[C] Roopa Ganguly
[D] Kanimozhi
Correct Answer: D [Kanimozhi]
Notes:
DMK MP Kanimozhi has been selected for the Best Woman Parliamentarian (Rajya Sabha) set up by
Lokmat newspaper for 2018. A jury of eminent personalities headed by Murali Manohar Joshi selected
her for the award and it will be presented to her by Vice-President M. Venkaiah Naidu on December 13.
112. Which city is the venue of the 4th Partners’ Forum 2018?
[A] Chennai PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
[B] Hyderabad
[C] Chandigarh
[D] New Delhi
Correct Answer: D [New Delhi]
Notes:
The 4th Partners’ Forum 2018 has been inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi on
December 12 to discuss issues related to maternal and child health. The 2-day forum was organised by
the Union Ministry of Health in association with the Partnership for Maternal, Newborn and Child
Health (PMNCH). About 1500 participants from across 85 countries participated in the international
conference. The mission of PMNCH is to support the global health community to work successfully
towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Partners’ Forum is a global health
partnership launched in September 2005 to accelerate efforts to reduce child and maternal mortality,
improve adolescent, child, newborn and maternal health. The previous chapters were held in
Johannesburg, South Africa (2014), New Delhi, India (2010) and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania (2007). This is
the second time India is hosting the Partners’ Forum.
113. Under which article of the constitution, the member of UPSC shall be appointed by the
President?
[A] Article-315
[B] Article-318
[C] Article-320
[D] Article-316
Correct Answer: D [Article-316]
Notes:
As per Article-316 of the Constitution, the Chairman and other members of UPSC shall be appointed by
the President. In case the office of the Chairman becomes vacant his duties shall be performed by one of
the other members of the Commission as the President may appoint for the purpose. A member of a
UPSC shall hold office for a term of six years from the date on which he enters upon his office or until he
attains the age of sixty-five years, whichever is earlier. Recently, Bharat Bhushan Vyas took the Oath of
Office and Secrecy as Member of Union Public Service Commission (UPSC). He will have a term of nearly
three years, when he attains the age of 65. Prior to this post, he was serving as Adviser to the Governor
of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K).
114. What is the theme of the 2018 International Mountain Day (IMD)?
[A] Mountains Matter
[B] Mountain Cultures

[C] Mountain Minorities

[D] Mountain Environments
Correct Answer: A [Mountains Matter]
Notes:
The International Mountain Day (IMD) is observed every year on December 11 to celebrate and bring
awareness to the world’s mountain environments and the people and cultures that inhabit them. It is an
opportunity to create awareness about the importance of mountains to life, to highlight the
opportunities and constraints in mountain development and to build alliances that will bring positive
change to mountain peoples and environments around the world. The purpose of the 2018 theme
“#MountainsMatter” is to create a large social movement that can bring mountain issues on the tables of
politicians.
115. Who has become the first-ever recipient of the WTA Coach of the Year award?
[A] Brad Gilbert
[B] Sascha Bajin
[C] Nick Bollettieri
[D] Boris Becker
Correct Answer: B [Sascha Bajin]
Notes:
Sascha Bajin, coach of the World No.5 five Naomi Osaka, has become the first-ever recepient of the
Women’s Tennis Association (WTA) Coach of the Year award. Bajin was behind the Osaka’s victory in the
US Open 2018. She lifted the women’s singles title of US Open 2018 by defeating Serena Williams of US
in straight sets 6-2, 6-4. Now, Osaka became the first Japanese woman to contest a Grand Slam singles
final and the first Japanese Grand Slam singles champion. The WTA Coach of the Year Award is given to
the coach with not only success on-court, but also who serves as an ambassador of the sport and brings
coaching to the forefront of the game.
116. What is the India’s rank in the 2019 Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI)?
[A] 10th
[B] 11th
[C] 12th
[D] 13th
Correct Answer: B [11th]
Notes:
India has been ranked 11th out 56 nations & the European Union (EU) at the 2019 Climate Change
Performance Index (CCPI), which was published by Germanwatch, the NewClimate Institute and the
Climate Action Network. The CCPI analysis shows that India has improved its standing by 3 places
compared to the 2018 report. However, the report has warned that coal projects threaten India’s
progress on clean energy. The top three ranks have not been acquired by any country because none does
well in all categories assessed. But, Sweden has acquired 4th spot, while Morocco spotted at 5th place.
The 2019 CCPI was released on the sidelines of 24th Conference of the Parties (COP 24) UN climate
summit on global warming in Katowice, Poland. The CCPI is an instrument designed to enhance
transparency in international climate politics. Its aim is to put political and social pressure on those
countries, which have, up until now, failed to take ambitious action on climate protection. It also aims to
highlight those countries with best practice climate policies.
117. Who has become the first-ever Indian athlete to won the ITTF Breakthrough Star award?
[A] G. Sathiyan
[B] Sharath Kamal
[C] Mouma Das
[D] Manika Batra
Correct Answer: D [Manika Batra]
Notes:
Manika Batra has become the first-ever Indian athlete to be decorated with the Breakthrough Table
Tennis Star award at the prestigious 2018 ITTF Star Awards in Incheon, South Korea on December 12.

Batra won four medals at the 2018 Commonwealth Games and a bronze at the 2018 Asian Games.
118. Mushirul Hasan, who passed away recently, was the renowned personality of which field?
[A] Politics
[B] Photography
[C] History
[D] Sports
Correct Answer: C [History]
Notes:
Prof. Mushirul Hasan (69), a renowned historian & former vice-chancellor Jamia Millia of Islamia, has
passed away in New Delhi on December 10, 2018. He wrote extensively on the partition of India,
communalism, and on the history of Islam in South Asia. He has also served as the DG of the National
Archives of India (NAI) and President of the Indian History Congress (IHC). Some of his notable works
are as follows: India Partition: The Other Face of Freedom, When Stone Walls Cry, Partners in Freedom:
Jamia Millia Islamia (co-authored with Rakshanda Jalil) and From Pluralism to Separatism: Qasbas in
Colonial India.
119. In which state, the Pratibha Parva is being organized in all primary and secondary schools?
[A] Uttar Pradesh PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Himachal Pradesh
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: B [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
In Madhya Pradesh, the Pratibha Parva, a programme to nurture talent in school children is being
organized in all primary and secondary schools from December 13, 2018. It is an important programme
of the School Education Department to improve the quality of elementary education. Around 70 lakh
students of more than one lakh government schools will take part in this congregation of children. The
aim of this 3-day programme is to assess the skill of students in quality education and strengthening the
corrective academic efforts.
120. What is the theme of the 2018 International Human Rights Day (IHRD)?
[A] Our Rights, Our Freedoms
[B] Stand up for someone’s rights today
[C] Stand up for the human rights
[D] Let’s stand up for equality, justice and human dignity
Correct Answer: C [Stand up for the human rights]
Notes:
The International Human Rights Day (IHRD) is observed every year on December 10 to commemorate
the day when the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted the Universal Declaration of
Human Rights (UDHR) at the Palais de Chaillot in Paris in 1948. The 2018 theme is ‘Stand up for the
human rights’. This year marks the 70th anniversary of the document which declared inalienable rights
which everyone is inherently entitled to as a human being — regardless of race, colour, religion, sex,
language, political or other opinions, national or social origin, property, birth or other status.
121. Which country has recently become a full member of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF)?
[A] Laos
[B] Israel
[C] Brazil
[D] Myanmar
Correct Answer: B [Israel]
Notes:
Israel has recently become a full member of the Paris-based Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the
global financial watchdog on money laundering, terror financing and other threats to the international

financial system. The FATF is empowered to ensure that financing of UN-designated terrorist
organisations is blocked. It has the power to publicly name countries not abiding by its norms, making it
difficult for such countries to source financial flows internationally. Now, FATF has 38 members,
including all five permanent members of the Security Council, and countries with economic influence.
122. Which high court has recently banned online sale of medicines across India?
[A] Bombay
[B] Delhi
[C] Madras
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: B [Delhi]
Notes:
In a landmark ruling, the Delhi High Court has ordered a ban on the sale of medicines online by e-
pharmacists across India and has directed the Delhi government and the Centre to put the order into
effect immediately. The order was passed by a division bench of Chief Justice Rajendra Menon and
Justice V Kameswar Rao on a petition filed by Dr. Zaheer Ahmed, who sought a ban on “illegal” sale of
drugs and medicines online. The PIL expressed concern over the unregulated sales of medicines on the
internet. The PIL further stated that the government has failed in its responsibility to protect public
health and fulfill its obligation under Article 21 of the constitution by allowing unchecked online sales. It
also highlighted that the online sale of medicines is not permitted under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act,
1940 and Pharmacy Act, 1948. In 2015, the Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) clearly instructed
state authorities to curb sales of medicines online in order to protect public health, but the practice
continued. In some cases, medicines were sold without prescriptions.
123. Which South Asian country has recently signed an ascension pact to the 30-member Trans
Regional Maritime Network (T-RMN)?
[A] India
[B] Bhutan
[C] Bangladesh
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: A [India ]
Notes:
India has recently signed an ascension pact to the 30-member Trans Regional Maritime Network (T-
RMN) at Italian Naval Headquarters in Rome, Italy. The pact will give India the access to information on
ships which pass through the Indian Ocean region that will greatly help the security forces in keeping a
tab on any suspicious activity. The multilat (sic) construct comprises 30 countries & is steered by Italy.
The IOR is India’s backyard and first respondent to any crisis situation. India already has bilateral White
Shipping Agreements with 36 countries.
124. Which country has emerged as the World’s No.2 arms producer, as per latest Swedish think
tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPTI) report?
[A] China
[B] Russia
[C] United States
[D] United Kingdom
Correct Answer: B [Russia ]
Notes:
As per latest Swedish think tank Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPTI) annual report,
Russia has emerged as the world’s second-largest arms producer after the United States. Russia
surpassed Britain, which had held that spot since 2002 and remains Western Europe’s No. 1 arms maker.
According to the report on the world’s 100 biggest armaments groups, the combined arms sales of
Russian companies amounted to $37.7 billion in 2017, or 9.5% of a total $398.2 billion, recording 8.5%
year-on-year growth. The report includes both domestic and foreign sales around the globe, but doesn’t
include Chinese companies because of unreliable statistics.
125. Which Indian start up has been honoured by UN Climate Action Award at the 2018 UN

Climate Change Conference (COP 24)?

[A] EcoFemme
[B] Sustain Earth
[C] Help Us Green
[D] Sustain Earth
Correct Answer: C [Help Us Green]
Notes:
The Uttar Pradesh-based start up ‘Help Us Green’ has been honoured by UN Climate Action Award at a
special ceremony at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP 24) in Katowice, Poland for recycling
temple waste to spread fragrance. As per UN document, Help Us Green has come up with the world’s
first profitable solution to the monumental temple waste problem: flowercycling. It gives marginalised
women the chance to earn livelihoods and be respected in their communities through collecting temple
ceremonial flowers tossed into the River Ganges and turning them into sustainable incense. The startup
collects 8.4 tonnes of floral waste from temples in Uttar Pradesh on a daily basis. These sacred flowers
are handcrafted into charcoal-free incense, organic vermicompost and biodegradable packaging
material through its ‘flowercycling’ technology. Women collect floral-waste daily from temples. The
waste is up-cycled to produce organic fertilisers, natural incense, and biodegradable packaging material.
126. The Indian Navy has inducted its first non-tethered Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle
(DSRV) System at which Naval Dockyard?

[A] Visakhapatnam
[B] Bombay
[C] Cochin
[D] Goa
Correct Answer: B [Bombay ]
Notes:
On December 12, the Indian Navy inducted its first non-tethered Deep Submergence Rescue Vehicle
(DSRV) System at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai. The DSRV is used to rescue crew members from
submarines stranded under water in the high seas. The DSRV can be operated at a depth of 650m & can
hold around 15 people. With this, the Indian Navy joins a select league of navies with the sovereign
capability in fly away configuration to search, locate and rescue crew from a disabled submarine. The
Indian Navy currently operates submarines of the Sindhughosh, Shishumar, Kalvari Classes as well as
nuclear powered submarines. The operating medium and the nature of operations undertaken by
submarines expose them to high degree of inherent risk. In such an eventuality, traditional methods of
search and rescue at sea are ineffective for a disabled submarine. Hence, this new method will overcome
the above said risk.
127. Which country has recently picked the Chinese character “disaster” to define 2018?
[A] South Korea
[B] North Korea
[C] Russia
[D] Japan
Correct Answer: D [Japan ]
Notes:
On December 12, Japan picked the Chinese character “disaster” to define the year 2018, a year that saw
deadly floods, strong earthquakes and heavy storms. The selection came after Japan was buffeted this
year by torrential rains in the country’s west and an large earthquake in Hokkaido, heightening public
awareness of the importance of disaster prevention measures. Japan was also rocked by man-made
calamities such as stolen cryptocurrencies and the uncovering of harassment by coaches in the athletic
world. The competition is rum by every year by the Kyoto-based Kanji Aptitude Testing Foundation
since 1995. The Chinese characters (or Kanji) are used widely in Japanese as well as other alphabets.
Earlier, “North” won in 2017 after North Korea’s missile launches, and “gold” in 2016 after the Rio
Olympics.
128. Which Atomic Power Station (APS) has created a world record for the longest uninterrupted

operation for 941 days?

[A] Kaiga
[B] Kakrapar
[C] Kudankulam
[D] Kalpakkam
Correct Answer: A [Kaiga]
Notes:
On 10th December 2018, the Kaiga Atomic Power Station (KAPS) has created a world record for the
longest uninterrupted operation for 941 days. The Unit-1 of Kaiga Generating Station (KGS) at Kaiga,
located the river Kali in Uttar Kannada district of Karnataka, has been generating electricity
continuously since May 13, 2016. It is an indigenously-built PHWR run by domestic fuel (uranium). It
began commercial operations on November 16, 2000, and has produced 500 cr. units of power so far. It
evidences the excellence in design, construction, safety, quality and operation & maintenance practices
of Nuclear Power Corporation of India (NPCIL). Earlier, the record of 940 days was held by Unit 2 of
Heysham of the United Kingdom (UK).
129. The EU Parliament has recently approved the world’s largest free trade deal with which Asian
country?
[A] India PRAVEEN GAUTAM | praveen.dda.20@gmail.com |
[B] Japan
[C] Thailand
[D] Vietnam
Correct Answer: B [Japan]
Notes:
On December 12, the European Parliament has approved the world’s largest free trade deal between
Japan and the European Union (EU). The EU-Japan Economic Partnership Agreement will go into effect
in February 2019. It will remove duties on almost all agricultural and industrial products as well as open
up the service sector and procurement. It also moves to eliminate non-tariff barriers to trade. It includes
standards of labor, safety, environment, consumer protection and, for the first time, a specific
commitment to the Paris climate agreement. The EU-Japan agreement has been celebrated as a victory
for Europe as a free trade champion in the face of U.S. President Donald Trump’s protectionism and the
U.K.’s decision to leave the EU. This agreement is projected to increase exports between the two
economies by 34% for the EU and 29% for Japan, liberalizing up to 99% of bilateral trade.
130. Who has been appointed as the new president of the Film and Television Institute of India
(FTII)?
[A] Sharmila Tagore
[B] Sajid Nadiadwala
[C] S. Shankar
[D] Brijendra Pal Singh
Correct Answer: D [Brijendra Pal Singh]
Notes:
Brijendra Pal Singh, who is the director-producer of the popular crime investigation series C.I.D., has
been appointed as the new president of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII) Society and
Chairman of Governing Council. He succeeded Anupam Kher, who had stepped down as the chairman in
October 2018 citing “international commitments”. As per provisions of FTII rules, Singh’s tenure will be
for the remaining period of block of three years starting from March 4 2017. Prior to being nominated as
the new FTII chief, Singh was serving in the capacity of vice chairman of the FTII Governing Council.
131. On which date, the 2018 International Universal Health Coverage Day (UHCD) was observed
recently?
[A] December 13
[B] December 12
[C] December 15

[D] December 14
Correct Answer: B [December 12]
Notes:
The International Universal Health Coverage Day (UHCD) is observed every year on December 12 to
mobilize diverse stakeholders to call for stronger, more equitable health systems to achieve universal
health coverage, leaving no one behind. It is promoted by the World Health Organization (WHO). The
day is also the anniversary of the first unanimous United Nations resolution calling for all nations to
provide for their citizens affordable, quality health care. he theme for the 2018 UHC Day is- “Unite for
Universal Health Coverage: Now is the Time for Collective Action”.

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International Anti-Corruption Day observed on December 9

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Wastage and value addition norms for gold religious idols

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India to Chair Kimberley Process Certification Scheme from January 2019

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social heritage. It is conducted under control Union Defence Ministry

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COP24: 24th Conference of Parties to UNFCCC begins Katowice, Poland

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Development Goals (SDGs) pledges to “leave no one behind”.

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