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Current Affairs Today: Monthly PDF Compilation [March,

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Current Affairs Today: Monthly PDF Compilation [March, 2018]
Contents
......................... . .....................................................................................
Month Highlights: March – 2018 ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 3
Date Wise: Current Affairs Updates .................................................................................................................................................................................. 14
March 1, 2018 ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 14
Cabinet approves MoU between India-Jordan for mining, beneficiation of Rock Phosphate ...................................................................... 14
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Jordan on Cooperation in Health Sector ................................................................................... 14
Cabinet approves agreement between India and Jordan on Customs Matters ................................................................................................ 15
Manufacturing growth falls to four-month low in February 2018: PMI .......................................................................................................... 15
DAC approves Rs. 9,435-crore procurement proposals for three services ...................................................................................................... 15
Pakistan admits being added grey list of FATF ...................................................................................................................................................... 16
Core sector grows at 6.7% in January 2018 ........................................................................................................................................................... 17
CCEA doubles Bank guarantee limit for pulses & oilseeds for NAFED ............................................................................................................ 17
Union Cabinet approves Action Plan for Champion Sectors in Services .......................................................................................................... 18
ATGM Nag successfully test fired in desert conditions ........................................................................................................................................ 18
March 2, 2018 ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 19
Only 13% of over hundred tiger conservation areas meet global standards: Survey ..................................................................................... 19
Maharashtra’s first Mega Food Park inaugurated at Satara ................................................................................................................................. 19
Shakti Sthala: World’s largest solar park launched in Karnataka ........................................................................................................................ 19
Size INDIA: NIFT to conduct National Sizing Survey to develop size chart .................................................................................................. 20
CBDT achieves important milestone of signing 200 APAs ................................................................................................................................ 20
Cabinet approves Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 ................................................................................................................................... 21
Cabinet approves establishment of National Financial Reporting Authority .................................................................................................... 22
Paschim Lehar: Tri-service maritime exercise concludes ..................................................................................................................................... 22
India, Jordan ink 12 agreements ................................................................................................................................................................................. 23
March 3, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 23
Arunachal Express connecting Naharlagun-Anand Vihar flagged off ............................................................................................................... 23
Navjot Kaur: First Indian woman to win gold medal at Asian Wrestling Championships ............................................................................ 23
China to build nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Liaoning within 7 years ........................................................................................................ 24
PSBs begin to rationalise 35 overseas operations .................................................................................................................................................. 24
ICG C-162: Bharati Defence delivers interceptor boat to Coast Guard ........................................................................................................... 25
Government approves Rs 2,919 crore projects under Nirbhaya fund to create 8 safe cities ...................................................................... 25
Indian Navy sailboat INSV Tarini arrives in Cape Town, South Africa ............................................................................................................ 26
India, Russia, Bangladesh sign pact for Rooppur atomic plant ........................................................................................................................... 26
March 3: World Wildlife Day ..................................................................................................................................................................................... 27
March 4-5, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 28
India and Vietnam inked 3 agreements .................................................................................................................................................................... 28
Odisha Government launches Ama Gaon, Ama Vikas programme ................................................................................................................. 28
India, Vietnam inks MoU on Cooperation in field of atomic energy ................................................................................................................. 28
Krishna Kumari Kohli: Pakistan elects first Hindu woman to Senate ............................................................................................................... 29
India 12th largest overseas holder of US securities in 2017 ................................................................................................................................ 29
Myanmar puts off border agreement with India ................................................................................................................................................... 30
90th Academy Awards (Oscars 2018) .................................................................................................................................................................... 30
Marshall Islands to launch world-first digital legal tender .................................................................................................................................... 31
Silver copper telluride (AgCuTe): Researchers develop thermoelectric compound ...................................................................................... 32
March 6, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 32
Neil Basu: Indian-origin UK officer appointed new Chief of Scotland Yard’s Counter-terrorism Unit ..................................................... 32
Services PMI contracts to 47.8 in February 2018 ................................................................................................................................................. 32
Government sets up Subhash Chandra Garg Committee to regulate fintech sector ..................................................................................... 33
India-US team test-fires M777 ultra-light howitzers in Pokhran ...................................................................................................................... 33
WTO to set up compliance panel in solar dispute case between India, US ..................................................................................................... 33
India’s first HeliTaxi service launched in Bengaluru .............................................................................................................................................. 34
Iraq overtakes Saudi Arabia as India’s biggest Oil Supplier ................................................................................................................................ 34
Saposhi: Threat of new malware looms over cyberspace .................................................................................................................................... 35
Animal Welfare Board of India headquarters shifted from Chennai to Ballabhgarh ..................................................................................... 36
March 7, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 36
Government launches #YesIBleed menstrual hygiene campaign ....................................................................................................................... 36
Commerce Ministry to devise strategy on product standards ............................................................................................................................ 37
Street Lighting National Programme: 49 lakh LED street lights installed ....................................................................................................... 37
India for the first time starts importing LNG from US ........................................................................................................................................ 38
40 Participants attend 46th Know India Programme .......................................................................................................................................... 38
HRD Ministry allocates Rs.1000 crore for research in S&T under IMPRINT-II ............................................................................................ 38
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development approves India’s membership ................................................................................... 39
Sukhad Yatra App and Toll-free Emergency number for Highway users launched ..................................................................................... 39
March 8, 2018 ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 40
Cabinet approves Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement between India and France .................................................................. 40
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Hellenic on Renewable Energy Cooperation ............................................................................ 40
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Balkrishna Doshi wins Pritzker Prize ....................................................................................................................................................................... 40

US move to raise import duty on steel may hit India’s steel market: ISA ........................................................................................................ 41
Cabinet approves two relief measures for stressed telecom sector .................................................................................................................... 41
CCEA approves Rs 1,151 crore Scheme for in-situ management of crop residue to fight air pollution .................................................... 42
India-China trade hits record $84.4 billion in 2017 ............................................................................................................................................. 42
CCI imposes Rs. 54 crore fine on 3 airlines for unfair business practices ....................................................................................................... 43
March 9, 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 43
Nari Shakti Puraskar 2017 .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 43
I – Metros: Government launches association of all Indian Metro Rail companies ....................................................................................... 44
Swachh Shakti 2018 celebrated in Lucknow under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan ................................................................................................ 44
Government launches Udyam Sakhi Portal for Women Entrepreneurs ........................................................................................................... 45
Government launches National Nutrition Mission ................................................................................................................................................ 45
Government expands Beti Bachao Beti Padha to pan India ................................................................................................................................ 46
SUVIDHA: Government launches 100% Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkin under Janaushadhi Pariyojana ...................................... 46
WHO launches plan for cheaper TB drugs ............................................................................................................................................................ 47
NITI Aayog launches Women Entrepreneurship Platform .................................................................................................................................. 47
Karnataka Government approves state flag proposal ........................................................................................................................................... 48
March 10, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 48
First ever ‘crime-free zone’ along India, Bangladesh international border launched ..................................................................................... 48
Rajasthan passes bill for death penalty for child rape of girls below 12 ........................................................................................................... 49
Diu becomes first Union Territory to run 100% on solar power ...................................................................................................................... 49
IREDA & European Investment Bank ink Loan Agreement for Renewable Energy Financing in India .................................................... 49
Supreme Court allows passive euthanasia, living will ........................................................................................................................................... 50
CP TPP: 11 countries sign revised TPP trade pact without US ........................................................................................................................... 50
India, France sign strategic pact on use of each other’s military bases .............................................................................................................. 51
Indian, French companies ink pacts worth 13 billion euros ................................................................................................................................. 52
India, France ink 14 agreements ................................................................................................................................................................................ 52
ISA-ADB, NDB, GCF, AfDB and AIIB sign joint declarations of financial Partnership ................................................................................ 53
March 11-12, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 53
Criminal Laws (Rajasthan Amendment) Bill, 2018 Passed in Rajasthan ........................................................................................................... 53
India B wins Deodhar Trophy 2018 ......................................................................................................................................................................... 54
Australia wins 2018 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup .......................................................................................................................................................... 54
Kinzhal missile: Russia successfully launches hypersonic missile ........................................................................................................................ 54
NCRB celebrates its 33rd Inception Day ................................................................................................................................................................. 55
First Indo-French Knowledge Summit held in New Delhi .................................................................................................................................. 55
India wins Best Exhibitor Award at ITB – Berlin ................................................................................................................................................... 55
India’s first coastal policing academy set up in Gujarat ........................................................................................................................................ 55
MILES-18: First ever multi-nation naval exercise at sea held in Andaman ...................................................................................................... 56
Samvedna 2018: IAF’s first multilateral HADR air exercise in South Asia ...................................................................................................... 56
India, France co-hosts International Solar Alliance summit ................................................................................................................................ 57
March 13, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 57
Death penalty should stay: 12 out of 14 states/UTs .............................................................................................................................................. 57
India attracts $209 billion FDI in 2014-2017: Government ............................................................................................................................... 58
National Conference on Counterfeiting & Role of Enforcement Agencies held in New Delhi ................................................................... 58
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India inks MoU with RBI ......................................................................................................................... 58
Government institutes Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Police Investigation ...................................................................... 59
Government forms Tribunal to solve Mahanadi Water dispute between Odisha & Chhattisgarh ............................................................. 59
IIP expands at 7.5% in January 2018 ....................................................................................................................................................................... 60
Government forms committee to probe illegal cultivation of HT Cotton ....................................................................................................... 60
March 14, 2018 ...................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 61
Bidya Devi Bhandari: Nepal’s 1st woman President re-elected for 2nd term ................................................................................................... 61
Foreign law firms can’t practice in India, but their lawyers can advice: SC ..................................................................................................... 61
C-17 Globemaster: IAF for first time lands its largest transport aircraft at Arunachal Pradesh’s Tuting airfield ................................... 62
IATA partners with Civil Aviation Ministry and National Aviation University ................................................................................................ 62
President inaugurates World Hindi Secretariat in Port Louis, Mauritius .......................................................................................................... 63
ICMR wins 2017 Kochon Prize for TB research ................................................................................................................................................... 63
India-UK Joint Team wins Newton-Bhabha Fund for Groundwater Arsenic Research project ................................................................. 64
Delhi End-TB Summit: PM launches campaign to eradicate TB from India by 2025 ................................................................................. 64
March 15, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 64
US challenges India’s export subsidy programmes at WTO ............................................................................................................................... 64
QOL-2C: AYUSH Drug developed by CCRAS for cancer patients ................................................................................................................... 65
India-Sri Lanka: Cabinet approves MoU between for promoting cooperation in IT and Electronics ....................................................... 65
India-Iran: Cabinet approves Agreement for Avoidance of Double Taxation ................................................................................................ 66
CCEA approves continuation of Urea Subsidy Scheme ....................................................................................................................................... 66
WHO SEARO countries adopt Delhi End TB Summit Statement of Action to eradicate TB ..................................................................... 66
15th March: World Consumer Rights Day .............................................................................................................................................................. 67
World Happiness Index 2018: India ranks 133 ...................................................................................................................................................... 67
Environment Ministry gives nod to Neutrino project ........................................................................................................................................... 68

India ranks 78th on WEF Energy Transition Index .............................................................................................................................................. 69

March 16, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 70
Arunachal Pradesh Assembly passes bill to have two-tier Panchayati Raj ....................................................................................................... 70
China develops artificial heart with rocket technology ........................................................................................................................................ 70
Haryana passes bill for death penalty for child rapists .......................................................................................................................................... 71
Sach-Gaurav: India’s first cloned Assamese buffalo born ..................................................................................................................................... 71
Lok Sabha passes Specific Relief (Amendment) Bill, 2017 .................................................................................................................................. 71
Lok Sabha passes Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017 ...................................................................................................................... 72
LaQshya program launched to improve quality of maternity care .................................................................................................................... 72
Pune tops in urban governance: ASICS 2017 report ............................................................................................................................................ 73
March 17, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 74
Maharashtra Government bans use of plastic ........................................................................................................................................................ 74
Jaipur to witness 8th Theatre Olympics .................................................................................................................................................................. 75
Prime Minister inaugurates 105th Indian Science Congress ............................................................................................................................... 75
India inks $120 Million Loan agreement with to improve Rail Infrastructure ................................................................................................ 75
Odisha Government to collaborate with RIMES for disaster management ..................................................................................................... 76
Krishi Unnati Mela held in New Delhi ..................................................................................................................................................................... 77
March 18-19, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 77
Philippines withdraws from International Criminal Court ................................................................................................................................... 77
CISF launches mobile app for lost items at airports ............................................................................................................................................. 78
Government imposes anti-dumping duty on Ofloxacin import from China ................................................................................................... 78
NITI Aayog releases SATH-E Roadmaps ............................................................................................................................................................... 79
C-437: Indian Coast Guard commissions interceptor boat ................................................................................................................................ 79
Ptilomera nagalanda: New species of water strider found in Nagaland ........................................................................................................... 79
President releases commemorative coins on Nabakalebar festival .................................................................................................................... 80
March 20, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 80
March 20: World Sparrow Day ................................................................................................................................................................................ 80
Bihar Governor Satya Pal Malik given additional charge as Governor of Odisha .......................................................................................... 81
President of India inaugurates Festival of Innovation and Entrepreneurship .................................................................................................... 81
Gulf Shield 1 military exercise of 23 countries held in Saudi Arabia .................................................................................................................. 81
Airbnb inks four MoUs for promotion of tourism in North-East ....................................................................................................................... 81
Varuna 2018: Indian Navy hosts bilateral naval exercise with French Navy .................................................................................................... 82
Indian hands over 18 locomotives to Myanmar ..................................................................................................................................................... 82
India, EU ink cooperation agreement to share earth observation data from each other’s satellite ............................................................. 83
India, Hong Kong sign double tax agreement ........................................................................................................................................................ 83
March 21, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 83
ICFRE and TIFAC ink MoU for supporting Forest Based Communities ......................................................................................................... 83
Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Skill Development ink MoU on skill development at KVKs ....................................................... 84
Government to set up Plastic Park in Jharkhand‘s Deoghar District ................................................................................................................ 85
National Cultural Audiovisual Archives becomes world’s first Trusted Digital Repository .......................................................................... 85
NITI Aayog, Piramal Foundation ink agreement to improve health, education in Aspirational Districts ................................................. 86
BIRAC celebrates its 6th Foundation Day .............................................................................................................................................................. 86
Government scraps export duty on sugar ............................................................................................................................................................... 87
UGC grants full autonomy to 62 higher educational institutes .......................................................................................................................... 87
Government launches Sand Mining Framework to check illegal extraction ................................................................................................... 87
March 22, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 88
Cabinet approves closure of India Development Foundation of Overseas Indians ........................................................................................ 88
Cabinet approves revision of DTAA between India and Qatar .......................................................................................................................... 88
Parivara and Talawara: Cabinet approves inclusion of communities ST list in Karnataka .......................................................................... 88
Cabinet approves opening of 18 new missions in Africa by 2021 ..................................................................................................................... 89
Cabinet approves amendments in Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016 .............................................................................................................. 89
Cabinet approves North-East Industrial Development Scheme 2017 ............................................................................................................... 89
22 March: World Water Day (WWD) ..................................................................................................................................................................... 90
Cabinet extends term of commission on sub-categorisation of OBCs ............................................................................................................. 90
Cabinet approves Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission ........................................................................................................ 91
March 23, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 92
Global carbon emissions hit record high in 2017: IAE ......................................................................................................................................... 92
Fluorimeter: DAE develops device to measure uranium traces in water .......................................................................................................... 92
Parliament passes Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017 ...................................................................................................................... 92
Raja Ravi Varma’s painting on Tilottama fetches over Rs.5 crore at New York auction .............................................................................. 93
44 African countries sign agreement to establish African Continental Free Trade Area ............................................................................ 94
India’s first sign language dictionary of 3000 words launched ......................................................................................................................... 94
MCX launches world’s first brass futures contracts .............................................................................................................................................. 95
BrahMos missile with indigenous seeker successfully test-fired for first time ................................................................................................ 95
Videsh Aaya Pradesh ke Dwaar: MEA launches engagement programme with Regional Media .............................................................. 96
March 24, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 96
First National Conference on Drug Law Enforcement held in New Delhi ...................................................................................................... 96
Indian Navy’s warship INS Ganga decommissioned ............................................................................................................................................ 96

Canadian mathematician Robert P. Langlands wins Abel Prize 2018 ............................................................................................................... 97

NAIPUNYA RATHAM: Andhra Pradesh Government launches World on Wheels ...................................................................................... 97
March 24: World Tuberculosis Day ......................................................................................................................................................................... 97
GSL delivers second AOPV to Sri Lankan Navy Ahead of Schedule ................................................................................................................ 98
ISRO–BHEL tie up for Production of Space Grade Lithium-Ion Cells ............................................................................................................. 98
ISRO postpones launch of Chandrayaan-2 mission .............................................................................................................................................. 99
Krem Puri: World’s longest sandstone cave discovered in Meghalaya ............................................................................................................ 100
Earth Hour 2018 observed across the world ........................................................................................................................................................ 100
March 25-26, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 101
JS Rajput nominated as India’s representative to Executive Board of UNESCO ............................................................................................ 101
March 25: International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade ....................................... 101
Print Biennale India 2018: First International Exhibition of Graphic Prints held in New Delhi .............................................................. 102
Chhattisgarh wins National Water Digest Award ................................................................................................................................................ 102
Ministry of Culture organises Madhavpur Mela in Gujarat ............................................................................................................................... 102
Brazzaville declaration signed to protect world’s largest tropical peatland .................................................................................................... 103
Government releases Draft policy on Defence Production ................................................................................................................................ 103
Government may relax protected area permit rules ........................................................................................................................................... 104
March 27, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 104
National Conference on Down Syndrome held in New Delhi .......................................................................................................................... 105
Surat: First district to have 100% solar powered health centres ...................................................................................................................... 105
ISA, India sign Host Country Agreement .............................................................................................................................................................. 105
Government launches E-Tribes India on e-commerce platforms .................................................................................................................... 106
GPI Tracker system: SWIFT broadens payment tracking capabilities ............................................................................................................ 106
TESS: NASA, SpaceX collaborate to search for exoplanets .............................................................................................................................. 107
March 28, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................. 108
AAI signs MoU with Assam Government to develop villages in Kamrup district ........................................................................................ 108
India’s first insect museum opened in Tamil Nadu ............................................................................................................................................. 108
Department of Posts launches Cool EMS Service between India and Japan ................................................................................................. 109
India and China agree roadmap for addressing Trade Imbalance ................................................................................................................... 109
Atal Innovation Mission ink SOI with SAP Global to foster innovation ......................................................................................................... 109
Skill India partners with Ministry of Power for implementation of Saubhagya Scheme ............................................................................. 110
93% rural households with access to toilets using them: NARSS 2017-18 .................................................................................................... 110
Exim Bank extends $500 million loan facility to 15-nation ECOWAS .............................................................................................................. 111
Government launches Study in India programme to attract foreign students ................................................................................................ 111
K2-229b: Hot, metallic Earth-sized planet discovered ......................................................................................................................................... 112
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Canada on IPRs .............................................................................................................................. 112
March 29, 2018 .................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 113
Cabinet approves India, UK and Ireland MoU on organised crime .................................................................................................................. 113
CCEA approves bulk export of all edible oils ......................................................................................................................................................... 113
Cabinet approves re-structuring of NSDF and NSDC ........................................................................................................................................ 113
CCEA approves continuation of Credit Guarantee Fund for Education Loans Scheme .............................................................................. 114
Cabinet approves MoU between India and SACEP for cooperation on Oil and Chemical Pollution ....................................................... 114
Cabinet approves amendments to National Medical Commission Bill ............................................................................................................. 115
CCEA approves new Integrated Scheme for School Education ........................................................................................................................ 115
CCEA approves enhancing coverage of Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana ..................................................................................... 116
CCEA approves continuation of Nutrient Based Subsidy and City Compost Scheme ................................................................................. 117
March 30, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 117
India receives first US LNG shipment at Dabhol under long-term deal .......................................................................................................... 117
Hindon Elevated Road: India’s longest elevated road inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh ..................................................................................... 118
Rajasthan’s first mega food park inaugurated at Ajmer ...................................................................................................................................... 118
China launches twin BeiDou-3 navigation satellites into space ......................................................................................................................... 118
First National Conclave on Psychological Trauma, Child Protection, and Mental Illnesses held in New Delhi ..................................... 119
Madhya Pradesh’s Kadaknath chicken gets Geographical Indication tag ....................................................................................................... 119
InSight Mission: NASA’s first mission to explore deep interior of Mars ......................................................................................................... 119
ISRO successfully launches GSAT-6A satellite ..................................................................................................................................................... 120
Government launches Swachh Bharat Summer Internship ................................................................................................................................ 121
March 31, 2018 ..................................................................................................................................................................................................................... 121
PFMS portal processes record transactions on single day .................................................................................................................................. 121
SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act: Government to File Review Petition .................................................................................................. 121
Kaziranga National Park: Rhino population rises marginally ............................................................................................................................. 122
Pakistan Test Fires Submarine Launched Cruise Missile BABUR ..................................................................................................................... 122
Russia Conducts Another Test for ICBM Sarmat Missile .................................................................................................................................. 122
Interstitium: Scientists discover new organ in human body ............................................................................................................................... 122
Chandra Bhushan Kumar appointed as Deputy Election Commissioner ........................................................................................................ 123
Government appoints Vineet Joshi as first DG of National Testing Agency .................................................................................................. 123

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Month Highlights: March – 2018

Government Policy and Schemes
PFMS portal
The Public Financial Management System (PFMS) portal has processed record Rs 71,633 crore transactions on a
single day. This was a historical record breaking volume of digital transactions achieved by PFMS.
Swachh Bharat Summer Internship (SBSI) 2018
Government is going to launch Swachh Bharat Summer Internship (SBSI) 2018 aimed at engaging college youth
with Swachhata work in villages in coming Summer vacation. The initiative will be launched by Ministry of
Drinking Water and Sanitation.
Nutrient Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme and City Compost Scheme
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved for continuation of Nutrient Based Subsidy
(NBS) Scheme and City Compost Scheme beyond 12th Five Year plan till 2019-20. The proposal was forwarded by
Department of Fertilizers.
Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana (PMRPY)
The CCEA chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved proposal of enhancing scope of Pradhan
Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana (PMRPY).
Integrated Scheme on School Education
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved new Integrated Scheme on School Education
for period 2018 to 2020. The new scheme will subsume existing schemes related to education such as Sarva
Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) and Teacher Education (TE).
Credit Guarantee Fund for Education Loans Scheme
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved continuation of Credit Guarantee Fund for
Education Loans Scheme. It also approved continuation and modification of Central Sector Interest Subsidy
Scheme for period from 2017 to 20.
Cool EMS Service
Department of Posts under Ministry of Communications has launched Cool EMS Service between India and
Japan. It is one-way service from Japan to India which allows customers in India to import Japanese food items for
personal use which is allowed under Indian regulations.
E-Tribes India
The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India, (TRIFED), under Ministry of Tribal Affairs
has launched E-Tribes India banners on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Snapdeal, Paytm & GeM.
Study in India programme
The Ministry of Human Resources Development (HRD) has approved ‘Study in India’ programme to attract
foreign students to pursue higher education in India.
ISA, India sign Host Country Agreement
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) signed Host Country Agreement in
New Delhi. The agreement gives ISA juridical personality an power to contract, acquire and dispose off movable
and immovable properties and also to institute and defend legal proceedings.
Protected area permit rules
Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is planning to relax the protected area permit (PAP) regime to enable foreign
tourists to access border areas. The move is being initiated to promote tourism, create job opportunities for the
locals and generate revenue for the states.
Draft policy on Defence Production
The Ministry of Defence has released draft policy on defence production that aims to make India one of the top
five manufacturers of defence platforms with active participation of public and private sectors.
NAIPUNYA RATHAM
Andhra Pradesh Government launched multi-utility vehicle NAIPUNYA RATHAM or World on Wheels to bring
technology to remote corners. It was launched at State Secretariat in capital Amaravathi by Chief Minister
N.Chandrababu Naidu.
Videsh Aaya Pradesh ke Dwaar
External Publicity and Public Diplomacy Division of Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) launched ‘Videsh Aaya

Pradesh ke Dwaar’, an engagement programme with regional media in Hyderabad, Telangana. The initiative aims
enhance public diplomacy outreach of MEA and its commitment to take objectives of foreign policy to people at
grassroot-level.
India’s first sign language dictionary
The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has launched India’s first Sign Language Dictionary of 3000. The
dictionary has been developed by Indian Sign Language Research & Training Centre (ISLR&TC) under
Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD).
Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved launch of Ayushman Bharat-National
Health Protection Mission (AB-NHPM). The scheme will integrate two on-going centrally sponsored schemes viz.
Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and Senior Citizen Health Insurance Scheme (SCHIS).
Commission on sub-categorisation of OBCs
The Union Cabinet has approved second and final extension of term of Commission constituted to examine issue
of Sub-categorization of Other Backward Classes in Central List for period of twelve weeks upto June, 2018.
North-East Industrial Development Scheme 2017
The Union Cabinet has approved North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS), 2017 to promote
employment in North Eastern Region states including Sikkim.NEIDS is combination of the incentives covered
under the earlier two government schemes with a much larger outlay.
18 new missions in Africa by 2021
The Union Cabinet has approved opening of 18 new Indian Missions in Africa over four year period from
2018-2021.
India Development Foundation of Overseas Indians
The Union Cabinet has given its approval for closure of India Development Foundation of Overseas Indians (IDF-
OI).The purpose of closure is to enhance synergies in channelizing contributions of Indian diaspora to
Government’s flagship programmes such as National Mission for clean Ganga and Swachh Bharat Mission.
Sand Mining Framework
The Union Ministry of Mines has launched Sand Mining Framework to help states deal with the sand mining
issues, including demand supply deficit and illegal extraction. It was launched at the third National Conclave on
Mines & Minerals held in New Delhi.
Full autonomy to 62 higher educational institutes
The University Grants Commission (UGC) approved proposal to grant full autonomy to 62 higher educational
institutions which have maintained high standards of excellence under Autonomous Colleges Regulation.
National Cultural Audiovisual Archives
The National Cultural Audiovisual Archives (NCAA) project of Ministry of Culture was certified as world’s first
Trusted Digital Repository as per ISO 16363:2012 standard. The certification was granted by Primary
Trustworthy Digital Repository Authorisation Body Ltd. (PTAB), United Kingdom.
Plastic Park
The Union Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers has approved proposal of setting up of Plastic Park in Deoghar
District, Jharkhand. The project will be set up at cost of Rs.120 crores in an area of 150 acres. Moreover, it will
also set up Central Institute for Plastic Engineering & Technology (CIPET) and Plastic Recycling unit at Deoghar.
Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVKs)
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship have
signed MoU to conduct skill development training programmes for agriculture and allied sector. These skill
development training programmes will be conducted at Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVKs).
SATH-E Roadmaps
NITI Aayog has released comprehensive roadmaps and detailed timelines for its initiative Sustainable Action for
Transforming Human Capital in Education (SATH-E) project to introduce system-wide Governance
Transformation in school education.
LaQshya program
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched LaQshya program aimed at improving quality of maternity
care in labour room and maternity Operation Theatre (OT). It is being implemented to ‘fast-track’ interventions
for achieving tangible results.
Urea Subsidy Scheme
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved continuation of Urea Subsidy Scheme from
2017 upto 2020 and implementation of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for disbursement of fertilizer subsidy.

TB Free India Campaign

Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Tuberculosis (TB) Free India Campaign after he inaugurated Delhi End-
TB Summit in New Delhi. The summit was co-hosted by Union Health Ministry, World Health Organisation
(WHO) South East Asia Regional Office and Stop TB Partnership.
Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)
The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog has launched Women Entrepreneurship Platform
(WEP) on the occasion of International Women’s day (March 8, 2018). WEP’s theme song ‘ Naari Shakti’
composed and sung by renowned singer Kailash Kher was also released.
Suvidha
Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers has launched ‘Suvidha’, a 100% Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkin, under
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). It was launched by Union Minister for Chemicals &
Fertilizers and Parliamentary Affairs Ananthkumar on occasion of International Woman’s day.
Beti Bachao Beti Padha
Union Government has expanded Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) programme from 161 districts to all 640
districts of the country. The initial focus of BBBP was limited to districts which were either below national
average or were worse in their own states in terms of absolute values of Chid Sex Ratio (CSR).
National Nutrition Mission
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched National Nutrition Mission (NMM) at event held at Jhunjhunu in
Rajasthan on the occasion of International Women’s Day. NNM is comprehensive approach towards raising
nutrition level in country on a war footing.
Udyam Sakhi Portal
The Ministry of Micro,Small & Medium Enterprises launched Udyam Sakhi Portal (www.udyamsakhi.org) for
women entrepreneurs on the occasion of International Women’s Day.
Swachh Shakti 2018
The Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation in association with Uttar Pradesh Government had organized
Swachh Shakti 2018, a Women’s Convention on occasion of International Women’s Day in Lucknow. This year,
Uttar Pradesh had hosted Swachh Shakti 2018, being largest state in country (in terms of population) with massive
rural populace.
I-Metros
The Union Housing Ministry has launched I-Metros, an association of all Indian Metro Rail companies for mutual
sharing of ideas & experiences for nurturing excellence their performance.
Scheme for in-situ management of crop residue
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved Rs. 1,151 crore Central Sector Scheme for in-
situ management of crop residue in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi.
Sukhad Yatra mobile app and Toll-free Emergency number
Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has launched Sukhad Yatra mobile application and 1033 Toll-
free Emergency number for highway users. It also launched scheme for District Driving Training Centres and will
provide grant of financial assistance for Road Safety Advocacy and awards for outstanding work in Road Safety.
IMPRINT-II
The Ministry of Human Resource Development has sanctioned Rs. 1000 crore for phase II of Impacting Research
Innovation and Technology (IMPRINT) India programme to boost research and innovation in the country.
Know India Programme
40 participants of Indian Origin from 9 countries attended 46th edition of Know India Programme (KIP). Madhya
Pradesh was partner state of this edition.KIP is initiative (scheme) of Ministry of External Affairs for Persons of
Indian Origin (PIO) between the age group of 18 to 30 years.
Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP)
Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) has installed 49 lakh LED street lights in 28 states/UTs under the Street
Lighting National Programme (SLNP). This information was given by Minister of State (IC) Power R K Singh in a
written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha.
#YesIBleed menstrual hygiene campaign
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched #YesIBleed menstrual hygiene campaign on the
occasion of International Women’s Day 2018. It is second edition of such campaign that aims to create holistic
approach to issue of menstruation, which is experience that transcends culture, class, and caste.
Nirbhaya fund
The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development has approved projects worth Rs 2,919 crore under
Nirbhaya Fund for creating eight safe cities. They are Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru,

Hyderabad and Lucknow.

Ama Gaon, Ama Vikas programme
Odisha Government has launched ‘Ama Gaon, Ama Vikas’ (Our Village, our development) programme to reach
out to people in rural areas and involve themselves in developmental activities.
Arunachal Express
A new train between Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh and Anand Vihar Terminal in the national capital named
Arunachal Express was flagged off. This is the second direct train for Arunachal Pradesh and overall 14th for
North East to connect with the national capital.
National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA)
The Union Cabinet approved establishment of National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) as an independent
regulator for the auditing profession. It aims to tighten regulatory oversight over auditors and plug loopholes. It
will be independent from those it regulates for enforcement of auditing standards and ensuring quality of audits.
Size India
National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi under Ministry of Textiles is going to conduct
National Sizing Survey dubbed as Size India to develop comprehensive size chart for ready-to-wear industry based
on body measurements of Indian population. So far, 14 countries have successfully completed national sizing
surveys that include US, UK, France, Canada, Spain, Germany, South Korea, Mexico, China and Australia.
Shakti Sthala
The first phase Shakti Sthala solar park having total capacity of 2,000 megawatts (MW) was inaugurated in
drought-prone Pavagada region of Tumkur district, Karanataka. It is claimed to be world’s largest solar park. The
park ties in with the Central Government’s scheme to generate 100 gigawatts (GW) of solar power by 2020. It has
been executed within record time of two years, with zero land acquisition.
Action Plan for Champion Sectors in Services
Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of Ministry of Commerce and Industry to give focused attention to 12
identified Champion Services Sectors (CSS) for promoting their development and realizing their potential.
Science, Technology & Environment
Interstitium
Scientists have discovered new organ in human body and have named it as ‘interstitium’. It will be the 80th organ
in the human body. It might be might be also the biggest organ in human body.
Rhino population rises marginally
The recent census carried out in Kaziranga National Park, Assam has revealed that there was a marginal increase
in the population of the one-horned rhinoceros here. As per census report, currently there are 2,413 rhinos in
Kaziranga National Park registering a marginal increase of 12 rhinos compared to last census.
GSAT 6A communication satellite
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched GSAT 6A communication satellite on
board of GSLV-F08 rocket from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. GSAT-6A is high power S-band communication
satellite with a mission life of about 10 years.
NASA’s InSight Mission
NASA will send first-ever mission named as InSight (Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations, Geodesy
and Heat Transport) dedicated to exploring the deep interior of Mars. InSight will be stationary lander that will be
launched in May 2018. Under this mission, stationary lander equipped with seismometer and heat transfer probe
will be placed on surface of Mars to study red planet’s early geological evolution.
Beidou-3MEO satellites
China has successfully sent pair of twin Beidou-3MEO satellites – Beidou-30 and Beidou-31 –into space as part of
its third and final stage of launching its domestic Beidou (Compass) satellite navigation system.
Oil and Chemical Pollution in South Asian Seas
The Union Cabinet has approved signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and South
Asian Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP) for cooperation on response to Oil and Chemical Pollution
in South Asian Seas Region.
K2-229b Dwarf planet
Scientists using Kepler 2 telescope have discovered hot, metallic, Earth-sized planet named K2-229b orbiting
dwarf star located 260 million light years away. They had employed Doppler spectroscopy technique also known as
‘wobble method‘ to discover and characterise this faraway planet.
India’s first insect museum
India’s first insect museum with state-of-the-art amenities was unveiled at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University
campus in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

NASA’s TESS Mission

NASA has partnered with private space launching company SpaceX to launch Transiting Exoplanet Survey
Satellite (TESS) to search for exoplanets using the transit method. TESS is designed to carry out first spaceborne
all-sky transiting exoplanet survey.
Brazzaville declaration
The Brazzaville declaration was singed to promote better management and conservation world’s largest tropical
peatlands-Cuvette Centrale region in Congo Basin from unregulated land use and prevent its drainage and
degradation.
Earth Hour
The twelfth edition of Earth Hour was observed across the world on 24 March 2018 to take a global call on climate
change. To mark this day, cities worldwide turned their lights off for one hour from 8:30 pm to 9:30 pm local
time.
Chandrayaan-2 Mission
The Indian Space and Research Organisation (ISRO) has postponed launch of India’s second lunar mission
‘Chandrayaan-2’ from April 2018 to October-November 2018 as experts have suggested more tests. It will be
launched on board of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk III (GSLV-F10).
Space Grade Lithium-Ion Cells
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has entered into Technology Transfer Agreement (TTA) with Bharat
Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) to transfer technology for manufacturing space grade Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) cells.
Fluorimeter
Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT), an Indore-based unit of Department of Atomic
Energy (DAE) has developed instrument called Fluorimeter, to measure traces of uranium in water. The device is
capable of examining traces of uranium in sample of water from 0.1 PPB (Parts-per-billion) unit to 100 PPB.
Maharashtra Government bans use of plastic
Maharashtra Government has banned complete use of plastic in time-bound manner, citing environmental and
public health concerns. The ban will include plastic bags, thermocol, disposable cups and plates, cutlery, non-
woven polypropylene bags, plastic pouches and packaging.
Ptilomera nagalanda
Scientists from Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered new species of water strider named Ptilomera
nagalanda Jehamalar and Chandra in Nagaland. It was found in river Intanki in Peren district of Nagaland.
Sach-Gaurav
The Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes (CIRB) has claimed that India’s first cloned Assamese buffalo male
calf named Sach-Gaurav was born in Hisar, Haryana. It was born to Murrah buffalo, at Hi Tech Sach Dairy Farm,
100 kms from cloning laboratory, making it first buffalo calf to be born in field.
Artificial heart with rocket technology
Chinese scientists have developed artificial heart using rocket technology and it is currently undergoing thorough
testing experiments on animals. The artificial heart uses magnetic and fluid levitation from rocket system. This
technology can reduce friction in device to increase working efficiency and extend life span of power generator.
Neutrino project
The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) has given environmental clearance to India-based Neutrino
Observatory (INO) project to be set up in Bodi West hills in Tamil Nadu. The approval was given by MoEF’s
Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) after taking up INO project issue as special case.
QOL-2C
The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has undertaken development of coded drug
AYUSH QOL-2C for improving quality of life in cancer patients.
Illegal cultivation of HT Cotton
The Department of Biotechnology in Ministry of Science and Technology has constituted Field Inspection and
Scientific Evaluation Committee (FISEC) to investigate matter of illegal cultivation of Herbicide Tolerant (HT) or
BG-III cotton in four states viz. Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Gujarat and Maharashtra.
Saposhi
Cybersecurity agencies have detected a new malware called Saposhi that can take over electronic devices and use
them for Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Saposhi Malware is capable of taking over electronic
devices and turning them into bots (device taken over by malware) which can then be used for any purpose,
including DDoS attacks which, with enough firepower, can cripple entire industries.
Animal Welfare Board of India
Government has shifted headquarters of Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) to Ballabhgarh in Faridabad

District of Haryana from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It was shifted after consultation with AWBI for better
coordination between the Environment Ministry and AWBI for carrying out the animal welfare activities.
Cheaper TB drugs
World Health Organization (WHO) has invited pharmaceutical companies around the world to submit proposals
to manufacture affordable versions of newer medicines for treatment of drug resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB).
Silver copper telluride (AgCuTe)
Researchers have developed silver copper telluride (AgCuTe), a novel compound that exhibits poor thermal
conductivity but shows good electrical conductivity. It was developed by researchers from Jawaharlal Nehru
Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru.
Defence Related
ICBM RS-28 Sarmat
Russia has successfully test fired its latest nuclear Inter Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) RS-28 Sarmat. This
missile can carry an array of warheads capable of dodging missile defenses.
SLCM BABUR
Pakistan Navy successfully test fired indigenously developed Submarine Launched version of Cruise Missile
(SLCM) BABUR.
Offshore Patrol Vessel
The Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) has delivered second Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV) to Sri Lanka Navy.
This was overall the fourth Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) delivered in the current financial year.
INS Ganga decommissioned
Indian Navy’s indigenously built warship INS Ganga (F22) was decommissioned in Mumbai, Maharashtra after
over three decades of service.
BrahMos Missile
Supersonic cruise missile BrahMos was successfully flight-tested for first time with indigenously developed seeker
at Pokhran test range, Rajasthan. So far, seeker, a critical technology in missiles was imported from Russia.
Varuna-18
The Indo-French joint naval exercise Varuna-18 was held in Arabian Sea off Goa coast. It was aimed to explore
measures to facilitate operational-level interactions between their armed forces and increase mutual cooperation,
considering the common global threats.
Gulf Shield – 1 military exercise
The Gulf Shield – 1 military exercise of 23 countries including Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) member states
was held in Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. It was organised by Ministry of Defence of Saudi Arabia. The one
month exercise was largest military drill in region as it saw participation of participation of ground, naval and air
forces of participating countries.
ICGS C-437
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has commissioned interceptor boat ICGS C-437 at Porbandar, Gujarat as part of its
efforts to strengthen coastal security. ICGS C-437 shall be based at Jakhau under administrative and operational
control of commander Coast Guard Region (North West).
C17 Globemaster
The Indian Air Force (IAF) for first time flawlessly landed its largest transport US-manufactured aircraft, C-17
Globemaster at strategic Tuting Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal Pradesh, which is close to
Chinese border. After the trial landing, C17 carried out operations mission and airlifted 18 tons of load.
Samvedna 2018
Samvedna 2018, the first multilateral Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise of Indian Air
Force (IAF) in association with South Asian Region nations was held off the coast of Kerala. The multilateral
exercise was spearheaded by IAF and conducted by Southern Air Command (SAC) and involved representatives
from air forces of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and UAE.
MILES-18
The MILES-18, first-ever multi-nation naval exercise at sea was held at the Andaman sea. The three days exercise
was conducted as part of 10th edition of MILAN 2018. Milan 2018, a multi-national mega event was organised by
Andaman Nicobar naval command with theme ‘Friendship Across the Seas’ to expand regional cooperation and
combat unlawful activities in critical sea lanes.
First coastal policing academy set up in Gujarat
India’s first national coastal policing academy, National Academy of Coastal Policing (NACP) to train police forces
in effectively safeguarding country’s shoreline will start functioning from April 2018. It will be launched from
campus of Gujarat’s Fisheries Research Centre located in coastal Okha town in Devbhumi Dwarka district of

Gujarat.
Kinzhal Missile
Russia successfully launched high-precision aeroballistic Kinzhal hypersonic missile from a MiG-31 supersonic
interceptor jet. During the test, the missile launch was normal and it hit preset target on the test site. It also met its
performance characteristics and time indicators.
India-France Strategic pact
India and France have inked strategic pact providing for use of each other’s military facilities including opening
naval bases to warships. The agreement reflects growing depth between both countries in defence ties and comes
amid China’s growing military expansionism in Indo-Pacific region.
M777 ultra-light howitzers
Joint investigation committee (JIC) comprising US and Indian officials has test-fired M777 ultra-light howitzers
(ULH) at Pokhran firing range in Rajasthan. The test was conducted in the wake of accident during its trial in
September 2017.
ICG C-162
Bharati Defence and Infrastructure Ltd (BDIL) delivered high-speed interceptor boat ICG C-162 to Indian Coast
Guard (ICG) at BDIL jetty in Mangaluru, Karnataka. It is fifth interceptor boat delivered by BDIL’s Mangaluru
shipyard to ICG. The sixth boat will be delivered after three-and-a-half months of the delivery of the fifth boat.
Liaoning aircraft carrier
The China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) has announced to build its first nuclear-powered aircraft
carrier Liaoning by the middle of the next decade. It was announced as part of its list of ambitions hope to achieve
in weaponry and technical developments for People’s Liberation Army (PLA)-Navy by 2025.
Paschim Lehar
Tri-service maritime exercise Paschim Lehar conducted by Indian Navy concluded off western coast in Arabian
Sea. The objective of the exercise was to build interoperability between Indian Navy, Indian Army, Indian Air
Force and Coast Guard.
ATGM Nag
Indigenously developed Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM) Nag was successfully test-fired in desert conditions
against two tank targets at different ranges and timings. With this, the developmental trials of Nag missile have
been completed and it is now ready for induction.
Finance, Business and Economy
India receives first LNG cargo from US
India received its first Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) cargo from United States (US) under long-term supply deal. The
first US-sourced LNG shipment was imported by state-owned GAIL on board of its chartered LNG ship ‘Meridian
Spirit’ from Cheniere Energy’s Sabine Pass LNG export facility in Louisiana.
Bulk export of all edible oils
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved for removal of prohibition on export of all
varieties of edible oils except mustard oil. It will provide additional marketing avenues for edible oils and oilseeds.
Global Payment Innovation Tracker system
The SWIFT (Society for World Interbank Financial Telecommunication System) platform has expanded its GPI
(Global Payment Innovation) Tracker system to help banks track their global transactions at all times and keep full
vigil on payments activity.
MCX launches world’s first brass futures contracts
India’s largest commodities exchange platform, Multi Commodity Exchange of India Limited (MCX) launched
world’s first brass futures contracts. It will facilitate brass stakeholders to hedge their price risk. MCX Brass futures
will be the first non-ferrous contract with compulsory delivery option.
WEF Energy Transition Index
India was ranked at 78th among 114 countries on World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Energy Transition Index
(ETI) released as part of report titled Fostering Effective Energy Transition. The index ranks countries on how
well they are able to balance energy security and access with environmental sustainability and affordability.
World Happiness Index 2018
India was ranked 133rd among 156 countries in World Happiness Index 2018, recently released by the UN
Sustainable Development Solutions Network. The index ranked 156 countries based on factors (parmaters) such as
inequality, life expectancy, GDP per capita, social freedom, generosity, public trust (i.e. a lack of corruption in
government and business) and social support.
India attracts $209 billion FDI in 2014-2017
India has attracted reaching US $208.99 billion foreign direct investment (FDI) during April 2014 to December

2017 period. The main sectors that received maximum FDI include services, computer software and hardware,
telecommunications, construction, trading and automobile.
Relief measures for stressed telecom sector
Union Cabinet has approved two key measures in telecom sector to facilitate investments, consolidation in the
sector and enhancing ease of doing business. These include restructuring Deferred payment liabilities of spectrum
auction of telecom service providers (TSPs) and Revising the limit of the cap for spectrum holding for TSPs.
Iraq overtakes Saudi Arabia as India’s biggest Oil Supplier
Iraq has overtaken Saudi Arabia to become India’s top crude oil supplier by supplying 38.9 million tonnes (MT)
crude oil in the current financial year. It was fifth of the India’s oil needs. India is 80% dependent on imports to
meet its oil needs.
Subhash Garg Committee
The Union Government has set up 8 member steering committee look into development and regulation of
financial technology (fintech) sector in India. It will be headed by Economic Affairs Secretary Subhash Garg.
India’s first HeliTaxi
India’s first helicopter shuttle service (HeliTaxi) was launched in IT capital Bengaluru, Karnataka n a bid to
provide last-mile connectivity. The maiden trip of helitaxi was between Electronic City and Kempegowda
International Airport in Bengaluru. It was provided by Thumby Aviation.
Services PMI
The Nikkei India Services Business Activity Index contracted at 47.8 in February 2018 compared with 51.7 in
January 2018. A reading above 50 implies an expansion while one below 50 denotes a contraction. The contraction
shows that activity and new work in services sector declined for the first time since November 2017, with rates of
contraction the fastest since August 2017.
World-first digital legal tender
Marshall Islands in Pacific Ocean is set to become first country in world to recognize cryptocurrency as its legal
tender and adopt transparent crypto monetary system. The parliament of island has passed law to create the digital
currency called “Sovereign” with symbol SOV to raise some hard cash to pay bills and boost economy.
Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs)
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has crossed an important milestone of having signed 200 Advance
Pricing Agreements (APAs). It was achieved after it entered into seven more APAs in February 2018.
Index of eight core industries
According to index of eight core industries released by Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Core sector growth
has grown at faster pace of 6.7% in January 2018 against 3.4% in January 2017. The eight core sectors had grown
by 4.2% in December 2017 and 7.4% in November 2017.
Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI)
According to Nikkei India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI), India’s manufacturing sector activity
fell to four-month low in February 2018 as factory output and new business orders rose at slower pace.
Events & Observances
Madhavpur Mela
The Union Ministry of Culture for the first time had organised Madhavpur Mela in Madhavpur Ghed in
Porbandar District of Gujarat under the banner of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat. Its purpose is to bring various parts
of country especially the North-East, close to each other.
Print Biennale India 2018
The first-ever International Print Biennale, an International Exhibition of Graphic Prints was held in New Delhi.
It was organised by Lalit Kala Akademi.
March 25: International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade
The International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade is observed
every year on March 25 across the world.
March 24: World Tuberculosis Day
The World Tuberculosis Day (WTD) is observed every year on March 24 to raise public awareness about the
global epidemic of Tuberculosis (TB) and efforts to eliminate the disease.
22 March: World Water Day (WWD)
The World Water Day (WWD) is observed every year on 22 March to spread message of preservation and
rationaal consumption of water.
Festival of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (FINE
President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated Festival of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (FINE) in New Delhi. He
also presented Gandhian Young Technological Innovation Awards.

March 20: World sparrow day (WSD)

The world sparrow day (WSD) is observed every year on March 20 to raise awareness of the house sparrow and
other common birds in urban environments and threats to their populations. The rationale for celebrating the Day
is to use it as a platform to underscore the need to conserve sparrows as well as the urban biodiversity.
Nabakalebar festival
President Ram Nath Kovind has released Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 10 commemorative coins on the occasion of
Nabakalebar festival at a function held in Puri, Odisha. These coins were release to mark the festival which is a
symbolic recreation of sibling deities — Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
Krishi Unnati Mela
The three-day annual Krishi Unnati Mela was held in New Delhi with focus on doubling farmers’ income. The
objective of fair was to create awareness among farmers about latest agriculture-related technological
developments.
105th Indian Science Congress
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 105th session of Indian Science Congress (ISC) at Manipur Central
University in Imphal. The focal theme of 5-day ISC is “Reaching the Unreached Through Science & Technology”.
8th Theatre Olympics
Jaipur will co-host 8th Theatre Olympics, the largest international theatre festival being held for the first time in
India. The Jaipur chapter of Theatre Olympics 2018 is organised by National School of Drama (NSD) under the
aegis of Ministry of Culture in collaboration with Ravindra Manch Society and Art & Culture Department,
Rajasthan Government.
15th March: World Consumer Rights Day
The World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) is celebrated every year on March 15 to pay solidarity with the
international consumer movement and give more attention to promote basic rights of consumers. This year the
theme promoted is “Making Digital Marketplaces Fairer”.
March 3: World Wildlife Day
The World Wildlife Day is observed every year on 3rd March to celebrate and raise awareness about the world’s
wild fauna and flora. It is celebrated to mark the signing of Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) on this day in 1973.
Persons in news – Appointments / Elections
Vineet Joshi
Government has appointed former chairman of Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Vineet Joshi, as the
first Director-General (DG) of the National Testing Agency (NTA). He will have tenure of five years.
Chandra Bhushan Kumar
Government has appointed senior bureaucrat Chandra Bhushan Kumar as Deputy Election Commissioner. He will
have tenure of five years. Bhushan is 1995 batch IAS officer of Union Territories Cadre.
JS Rajput
The Ministry of Human Resource Development has nominated former NCERT director JS Rajput as India’s
representative to Executive Board (EXB) of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization
(UNESCO).
Governor Satya Pal Malik
President Ram Nath Kovind has given Bihar Governor Satya Pal Malik (72) additional charge of Odisha until
regular arrangements are made. He was given additional charge after incumbent governor S C Jamir completed his
five-year tenure.
Bidya Devi Bhandari
Nepal’s first woman President Bidya Devi Bhandari (56) was relected for second term in office. In the presidential
election, she defeated Nepali Congress (NC) leader Kumari Laxmi Rai with overwhelming majority. Ms. Bhandari
was elected with more than a two-thirds majority after she secured 39,275 votes while the Nepali Congress’s Ms.
Rai garnered 11,730 votes.
Neil Basu
Senior Indian-origin Scotland Yard officer Neil Basu became first person of Asian heritage to be appointed as
Counterterrorism Chief. He will take charge as Scotland Yard’s National Lead for Counter Terrorism (CT) and
Head of Met Police’s Specialist Operations.
Awards
Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh was awarded National Water Digest Award for Water Conservation-Diversion and increasing the
irrigation capacity in the state

Robert P. Langlands
Canadian mathematician Robert P. Langlands (81) has won prestigious Abel Prize 2018 for his visionary
programme connecting representation theory to number theory. He will receive the award from Norway’s King
Harald V at an award ceremony in Oslo in May 2018.
Raja Ravi Varma
Renowned Indian painter Raja Ravi Varma’s untitled painting of Tilottama was sold for $795,000 (around Rs 5
crore) at Sotheby’s Modern and Contemporary South Asian art auction in New York. The winning bid was made
by anonymous private collector.
ICMR
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) was awarded 2017 Kochon Prize for building tradition of
excellence in Tuberculosis (TB) research and development. It had emerged winner from among 18 nominations.
India
India won Best Exhibitor Award at ITB–Berlin World Tourist Meet convened at Berlin, Germany. More than 100
countries had participated in the mega meet with their respective Tourism Ministers.
Nari Shakti Puraskar 2017
President Ram Nath Kovind presented Nari Shakti Puraskars 2017 to 30 eminent individuals and 9 distinguished
institutions at special ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan on occasion of International Women’s Day. They
were felicitated in recognition of their efforts in rendering distinguished services for cause of women, especially
vulnerable and marginalized women.
Balkrishna Doshi
Legendary Indian architect Balkrishna Doshi (90), a pioneer of low-cost housing design has won the prestigious
Pritzker Prize, considered architecture field’s Nobel. He is 45th Pritzker laureate and first from India to receive it.
Sports
2018 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
World champions Australia won 27th edition of the Sultan Azlan Shah cup 2018 for record 10th time. In the final
match held in Ipoh, Malaysia, Australia defeated defending champion England by narrow 2-1 goal margin.
India B wins Deodhar Trophy 2018
India B won 45th edition of the Deodhar Trophy 2018 by defeating Karnataka in final match by 6 wickets at the
Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala.
Navjot Kaur
Ace wrestler Navjot Kaur won gold medal in the 65kg freestyle wrestling category of Senior Asian Championships
held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. With this, she created history by becoming first Indian woman wrestler to win gold
medal in Senior Asian Championships.
Miscellaneous Terms and Facts
Kadaknath chicken
Chennai based Geographical Indication Registry and Intellectual Property India has awarded Geographical
Indication (GI) Tag to Madhya Pradesh’s Kadaknath chicken.
Hindon Elevated Road
Hindon Elevated Road, India’s longest elevated road was inaugurated in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh by Chief
Minister Yogi Adityanath. It connects UP Gate to Rajnagar Extension and will make it easier to commute between
Delhi and Ghaziabad.
National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill
Union Cabinet has approved certain amendments to National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill considering
recommendations of Department Related Parliamentary Standing Committee (DRPSC) and general feedback from
public.
Surat
Surat district in Gujarat become first in country to have 100% solar powered Primary Health Centers (PHCs). All
52 PHCs in the district are now powered by solar system.
Krem Puri
The world’s longest sandstone cave named Krem Puri was discovered near Laitsohum village in Mawsynram area
in East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. The cave is 24,583 metres (24.5 km) in length and is known for its
complex cave systems hidden under its undulating hills.
African Continental Free Trade Area
The 44 African countries from total 55 members of African Union (AU) have signed agreement to create African
Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), one of the world’s largest free trade blocs. The agreement was signed at a
summit held in Kigali, Rwanda.
Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017

The Parliament has passed Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017 to empower government to fix period of
maternity leave and tax-free gratuity amount with an executive order.
Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016
The Union Cabinet has approved proposal for moving official amendments in Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016.
Once the Bill is enacted by Parliament, National Surrogacy Board (NSB) will be constituted at central level. The
States/UTs will constitute State Surrogacy Boards (SSBs) and State Appropriate Authorities within 3 months of
notification by Central Government.
Parivara and Talawara
The Union Cabinet has given its in principle approval for inclusion of communities, namely ‘Parivara and
Talawara’ as synonym of Nayaka at in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs) of Karnataka.
International Criminal Court
Philippines has announced to withdraw from International Criminal Court (ICC) citing reason of international
bias and held that ICC was being utilised as a political tool against it.
Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES)
The Odisha government will collaborate with Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning System (RIMES)
for strengthening its early warning services and enhancing preparedness for management of hazards in state. The
partnership will be in field of drought monitoring and early warning for different natural disasters. RIMES is
already working with the Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority.
Specific Relief (Amendment) Bill, 2017
The Lok Sabha has passed Specific Relief (Amendment) Bill, 2017 to further ease procedures for doing business in
the country. The Bill seeks to amend the Specific Relief Act, 1963.
Delhi End TB Summit Statement of Action
The Member Countries of World Health Organization-Regional Office for South-East Asia (WHO-SEARO),
participating in Delhi End Tuberculosis (TB) Summit have adopted ‘Delhi End TB Summit Statement of Action’.
The summit was co-hosted by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, WHO-SEARO and Stop TB Partnership in
New Delhi.
Newton-Bhabha Fund
India-United Kingdom (UK) Joint Team has won Newton-Bhabha Fund for project on Groundwater Arsenic
Research in Ganga River Basin. The project was undertaken by Department of Science and Technology (DST) in
collaboration with Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), UK to find solutions to water challenges faced
in pervasively arsenic-affected Ganga River Basin.
World Hindi Secretariat
President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated World Hindi Secretariat building in Port Louis, Mauritius. He also
launched secretariat’s logo, an Early Digital Learning Programme as well unveiled foundation stones of social
housing project and large ENT hospital being built with Indian assistance.
International Solar Alliance summit
India, France co-hosted first International Solar Alliance (ISA) Summit at Rashtrapati Bhavan Convention Centre
in New Delhi. The aim of the summit was to deliberate on finance mechanism for promotion of solar energy in
member countries, crowd-funding and technology transfer.
Criminal Laws (Rajasthan Amendment) Bill, 2018
The Rajasthan Legislative Assembly has passed The Criminal Laws (Rajasthan Amendment) Bill, 2018 providing
for death penalty for convicts involved in rape of girls below 12 years of age.
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership
11 Pacific Rim countries have formally entered into Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific
Partnership or CP TPP or TPP11 in Santiago, Chile. It is revised version of Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP)
proposed by US, that was finalized after US withdrew from it.
Passive euthanasia, living will
The Supreme Court (SC) allowed passive euthanasia and right to give advance medical directives or ‘Living Wills’,
stating that human beings have the right to die with dignity as part of fundamental right, but made sure to set out
strict guidelines that will govern when it is permitted.
Diu
Diu has become the first and only Union Territory in the country to be fully run on solar energy. The UT
generates total of 13 megawatts (MW) of electricity from solar power generating facilities daily. Of this, 3 MW is
generated by rooftop solar plants and 10 MW by its other solar power plants.
First crime-free zone’
The director generals of Border Security Force (BSF), India and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have declared 8.3

km stretch of Indo-Bangladesh border as first ‘crime-free zone’. The stretch covers Gunarmath and Kalyani Border
Out Posts (BOPs) in India and Puthkhali and Daulatpur BOPs in Bangladesh across border.
Karnataka state flag
Karnataka Government has decided to accept state flag proposed and designed by 9-member committee
constituted by state Kannada and Culture department. It will be official flag in place of an unofficial red and yellow
flag that is currently used in the state to signify local pride.
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development
The shareholders of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have given their nod to India’s
candidature to international financial institution. With this, India will become 69th member of EBRD.
Rooppur atomic plant
India, Bangladesh and Russia have signed tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) for cooperation in
construction of Rooppur nuclear power plant near Dhaka, Bangladesh. It is first initiative under India-Russia
nuclear deal to undertake atomic energy projects in third countries. It will also be India’s first atomic energy
venture abroad.
Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved introduction of Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 in Parliament. The bill
proposed by Finance Ministry aims to curb practice of evading criminal prosecution by economic offenders (wilful
defaulters) who flee from country to evade clutches Indian law by remaining outside jurisdiction of Indian courts.
Grey list of FATF
Pakistan has confirmed that it will be added on ‘grey list’ of Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in June 2018,
once an action plan is mutually negotiated. But it has disputed claims of being put on ‘black list’ from ‘grey list’,
which are mainly non-cooperative countries. Earlier, Pakistan was on FATF grey-list from 2012 to 2015.
Date Wise: Current Affairs Updates
March 1, 2018
Cabinet approves MoU between India-Jordan for mining, beneficiation of Rock Phosphate
March 1, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India
and Jordan for mining and beneficiation of Rock Phosphate and Muriate of Phosphate (MOP). It also
approved setting up production facility in Jordan for Phosphoric Acid/NPK/DAP Fertilizers with long
term agreement for 100% off-take to India. The MoU will ensure consistent supply of raw material,
intermediaries and finish Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers to cater to needs of country at a
reasonable price.
MoU on Cooperation in Field of Manpower
The Union Cabinet also approved the proposal for signing of MoU on Cooperation in the Field of
Manpower between India and Jordan. It aims at enhancing collaboration between two countries in
promoting best practices in administration of contractual employment.
The MoU will be valid for period of 5 years and incorporates provision of automatic renewal and
monitoring mechanism through Joint Technical Committee (JTC). It reflects latest reforms in
recruitment processes and enhances protection and welfare of Indian workers in Jordan. It is
expected to usher in greater transparency and curb malpractices in the recruitment process due to
use of online portal for recruitment of Indian manpower.
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Jordan on Cooperation in Health Sector
March 1, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India
and Jordan on cooperation in the field of Health & Medical Science. Working Group will be set up to
to oversee the implementation of this MoU and further elaborate the details of cooperation.
MoU covers the following areas of cooperation
Health Research.
Tobacco Control.
Chronic Disease Control.
National Health Statistics.
Health System Governance.
Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

Health Finance and Health Economy.

Services and Information Technology in Health.
Regulation of Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices.
Diagnosis, Treatment and Medication in Tuberculosis.
Cabinet approves agreement between India and Jordan on Customs Matters
March 1, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved signing and ratifying Agreement between India and Jordan on
Cooperation and Mutual Administrative Assistance in Customs Matters. It will help in availability of
relevant information for prevention and investigation of Customs offences. It is also expected to
facilitate trade and ensure efficient clearance of goods traded between countries.
Key Facts
The Agreement will provide legal framework for sharing of information and intelligence between
Customs authorities of two countries and help in proper application of Customs laws, prevention and
investigation of Customs offences and facilitation of legitimate trade.
Background
The draft text of Agreement was finalized with concurrence of Customs Administrations of both
countries. It takes care of Indian Customs’ concerns and requirements, particularly in area of
exchange of information on correctness of Customs value, tariff classification and origin of goods
traded between two countries.
Manufacturing growth falls to four-month low in February 2018: PMI
March 1, 2018
According to Nikkei India Manufacturing Purchasing Managers Index (PMI), India’s manufacturing
sector activity fell to four-month low in February 2018 as factory output and new business orders
rose at slower pace. The monthly PMI fell to 52.1 in February 2018 from 52.4 in January 2018,
indicating modest improvement in operating conditions. A reading above 50 on index denotes
expansion and less than that indicates contraction in activities
Key Facts
This is for seventh consecutive month that PMI remained above 50-point-mark that separates
expansion from contraction. The expansion was primarily driven by significant rise in
manufacturing production, while there were reports of improved underlying demand, with domestic
and external sources driving new business gains.
In December 2017, PMI had touched a 60-month high of 54.7. In response to greater production
requirements, firms raised their staffing levels during February 2018. Although modest, the pace of
job creation was slightly faster than January.
PMI Survey on prices front found that cost inflation has accelerated to sharpest since February 2017,
adding to expectations that inflationary risks will continue over coming months. It also noted that
Indian manufacturers remained optimistic towards 12-month outlook for output during February
2018.
Purchasing Managers’ Index (PMI)
PMI is an indicator of business activity-both in the manufacturing and services sectors. It is a
survey-based measure that asks respondents about changes in their perception of some key business
variables from month before. It is calculated separately for manufacturing and services sectors and
then composite index is constructed.
Implications for economy
PMI is usually released at start of month, much before most of official data on industrial output,
manufacturing and GDP growth is made available. It is, therefore, considered a good leading
indicator of economic activity. Manufacturing growth measured by PMI is considered good indicator
of industrial output.
DAC approves Rs. 9,435-crore procurement proposals for three services
March 1, 2018
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has
approved various procurement proposals for three services estimated at about Rs. 9,435 crore.
The proposals includes purchase of 41,000 light machine guns (LMGs) and over 3.5 lakh close quarter
battle (CQB) carbines, High-capacity radio relay (HCRR) and two Pollution control vessels (PCV). DAC

is Defence Ministry’s highest decision-making body on procurement.

Key Facts
LMGs and CQB carbines: The carbines will be procured at cost of Rs. 4,607 crore and LMGs Rs. 3,000
crore. The approval is first step in long-drawn defence procurement procedure, and conclusion of
final deals will take several years. Of the purchases, 75% will be through Indian industry under Buy
and Make (Indian) category and balance through Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). It will enable the
defence forces to meet their immediate requirement for troops deployed on border. It will also
address shortage of small arms for armed forces
High-capacity radio relay (HCRR): It will be procured at essential quantities for Indian Army and Air
Force at about Rs. 1,092 crore. The HCRRs will provide fail-safe and reliable communication along
with increased bandwidth in tactical battle area.
Pollution control vessels (PCV): Indian Coast Guard will get two pollution control vessels (PCV) at an
approximate cost of Rs.673 crore. These PCVs will carry out pollution control and will be capable of
undertaking patrolling, search and rescue and limited salvage and fire-fighting operations at sea.
They will be built by Indian shipyards at an approximate cost of Rs. 673 crore. It will enhance Indian
Coast Guard’s (ICG) ability to rapidly undertake pollution control measures off east coast and island
territories.
Pakistan admits being added grey list of FATF
March 1, 2018
Pakistan has confirmed that it will be added on ‘grey list’ of the Financial Action Task Force (FATF) in
June 2018, once an action plan is mutually negotiated. But it has disputed claims of being put on
‘black list’ from ‘grey list’, which are mainly non-cooperative countries. Earlier, Pakistan was on the
FATF grey-list from 2012 to 2015.
Background
In February 2018 plenary session of FATF, US, UK, Germany and France had pushed for putting
Pakistan on grey list for its ineffectiveness to deal Islamist terrorists especially Haqqani Network and
its facilitators. FATF had decided to put Pakistan back on “grey list,” subjecting it to direct
monitoring and intense scrutiny by the International Co-operation Review Group (ICRG) on terror
financing, pending further review in June 2018. The FATF decision was by consensus, after days of
closed-door discussions within the 37-member group.
Impact of Grey-listing
It will endanger Pakistan’s handful of remaining banking links to t outside world, causing real
financial pain to the economy. It will squeeze Pakistan’s economy and make it harder to meet its
mounting foreign financing needs, including potential future borrowings from International
Monetary Fund (IMF). It will lead to downgrading of Pakistan’s debt ratings by international banking
and credit rating agencies, making it more difficult to tap funds from international bond markets. It
will also suspend international funds and aid to Pakistan such as Coalition Support Funds (CSF),
money which US owes to Pakistan for military operations.
Financial Action Task Force (FATF)
FATF is an inter‐governmental policy making body that aims to establish international standards
for combating money laundering and terrorist financing. It was established in 1989 during the G7
Summit in Paris (France) to combat the growing problem of money laundering.
It comprises over 39 member countries including India. FATF Secretariat is housed at the
headquarters of the OECD in Paris. Initially, FATF was only dealing with developing policies to
combat money laundering. But in 2001 its purpose was expanded to act against terrorism financing.
Mandate
FATF set standards and promote effective implementation of legal, regulatory and operational
measures for combating money laundering, terrorist financing and other related threats to integrity
of international financial system.
Functions
Set international standards to combat money laundering and terrorist financing.
Assess and monitor compliance with the FATF standards.
Conduct studies of money laundering and terrorist financing methods, trends and techniques.

Respond to new and emerging threats, such as proliferation financing used for promoting proliferation of nuclear,
chemical and biological weapons.
Core sector grows at 6.7% in January 2018
March 1, 2018
According to index of eight core industries released by Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Core
sector growth has grown at faster pace of 6.7% in January 2018 against 3.4% in January 2017. The
eight core sectors had grown by 4.2% in December 2017 and 7.4% in November 2017.
Key Facts
Cumulatively, the growth in eight core sectors during April-January this fiscal slowed to 4.3% as
against 5.1% in the same period last fiscal. The growth in key sectors will have implications for Index
of Industrial Production (IIP) as these eight segments account for about 41% of the total factory
output.
Breakup of January performance:
Petroleum refinery production: It jumped up by 11%.
Cement output: It jumped up by 20.7%.
Electricity generation: Its growth rose to 8.2%.
Coal sector output: It improved by 3%.
Steel production: It grew by 3.7%.
Crude oil production: It dropped by 3.2%.
Fertiliser output: It dropped by 1.6%.
Natural gas: Its output fell by 1%.
Core Industry sector
Core industry can be defined as main industry of the economy. In most countries, there is particular
industry that seems to be backbone of all other industries and it qualifies to be the core industry. In
India, there are eight core sectors comprising of coal, crude oil, natural gas, petroleum refinery products,
fertilisers, steel, cement and electricity.
Latest weightage in core sectors: Petroleum Refinery production (weight: 28.04%), Electricity
generation (19.85%), Steel production (17.92%), Coal production (10.33%), Crude Oil production (8.98%),
Natural Gas production (6.88%), Cement production (5.37%), Fertilizers production (2.63%)
CCEA doubles Bank guarantee limit for pulses & oilseeds for NAFED
March 1, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved proposal to double guarantee to
Rs. 19,000 crore from earlier Rs 9,500 crore to National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing
Federation of India (NAFED) for obtaining credit from banks for procurement of pulses and oilseeds
at the support price. The regularization and extension is for undertaking procurement operation of
pulses and oilseeds under Price Support Scheme (PSS).
The CCEA also approved Government Guarantee up to Rs. 45 crore to the Small Farmers Agri-
Business Consortium (SFAC) for meeting its existing liability and settlement of extant claims. The
guarantee will be provided for period of 5 years, till 2021-22 and with waiver of 1% of government
guarantee fee.
Background
As the market price of almost all pulses and oilseeds are ruling below Minimum Support Price (MSP)
as notified by Government, provision of Government Guarantee will help in protecting farmers
producing these commodities from making distress sales during peak arrival period. It will also
provide remunerative prices to encourage higher investment and production. It will also provide to
safeguard interest of consumer by making available supplies at reasonable price with low cost of
intermediation.
National Agricultural Cooperative Marketing Federation of India Ltd (NAFED)
NAFED is apex organization of marketing cooperatives for agricultural produce in India. Its
headquarters is located in New Delhi. It was founded in October 1958 to promote trade of
agricultural produce and forest resources across the nation. It functions under Ministry of
Agriculture.
NAFED is now one of the largest procurement as well as marketing agencies for agricultural

products in India. In 2008, it had established, National Spot Exchange, a Commodities exchange as a
joint venture of Financial Technologies (India) Ltd. (FTIL).
Union Cabinet approves Action Plan for Champion Sectors in Services
March 1, 2018
Union Cabinet has approved the proposal of Ministry of Commerce and Industry to give focused
attention to 12 identified Champion Services Sectors (CSS) for promoting their development and
realizing their potential.
12 identified CSS are
Information Technology & Information Technology enabled Services (IT & ITeS), Medical Value
Travel, Transport and Logistics Services, Tourism and Hospitality Services, Accounting and Finance
Services, Audio Visual Services, Communication Services, Legal Services, Construction and Related
Engineering Services, Environmental Services, Financial Services and Education Services.
Key Facts
Cabinet also has directed Ministries/Departments concerned with these sectors to utilize available
draft sectoral plans to finalize and implement Action Plans for identified CSS. The respective
Ministries/Departments will finalize Action Plans and implementation timelines along with
monitoring mechanism to monitor implementation under overall guidance of Committee of
Secretaries (CoS) under Cabinet Secretary. Government will set up dedicated fund of Rs. 5000 crores
to support initiatives for sectoral Action Plans of the Champion Sectors. These Action Plans will
develop vision for each of these identified Champion Sectors by year 2022 and enumerate steps that
need to be taken to achieve that vision.
Significance
It will enhance competitiveness of country’s service sectors through implementation of focused and
monitored Action Plans. It will promote GDP growth, create more jobs and promote exports to global
markets. Competitive services sector will also add to competitiveness of manufacturing sector as
well.
Background
The share of India’s services sector in global services exports was 3.3% in 2015 compared to 3.1% in
2014. Based on this initiative, a goal of 4.2 % has been envisaged for 2022. Its share in Gross Value
Added (GVA) was about 53% in 2015-16 (61 % including construction services).
The Group of Secretaries in their recommendations to Prime Minister, had identified 10 Champion
Sectors, including three (3) services sectors related sectors and seven (7) manufacturing, for
promoting their development and achieving their potential. It was subsequently decided that
Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), the nodal department for ‘Make in India’ will
spearhead initiative for Champion Sectors in manufacturing and Department of Commerce (DoC)
will coordinate proposed initiative for Champion Sectors in Services.
ATGM Nag successfully test fired in desert conditions
March 1, 2018
Indigenously developed Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM) Nag was successfully test-fired in desert
conditions against two tank targets at different ranges and timings. With this, the developmental
trials of Nag missile have been completed and it is now ready for induction.
ATMG Nag
ATMG Nag is one of five missile systems developed indigenously by DRDO under integrated guided
missile development programme (IGMDP). The other four missiles are Agni, Akash, Trishul and
Prithvi. It is manufactured by India’s sole missile producer, state-owned Bharat Dynamics Limited.
The Nag missile is third generation ATMG which works on “fire and forget” principle. It has
operational range of 500m to 4km (Land version) and 7-10km (when air-launched). It is equipped
with highly advanced Imaging Infrared Radar (IRR) seeker along with integrated avionics. This
technology is possessed by very few nations.
It also possesses advanced passive homing guidance system. It has been designed mainly to destroy
modern main battle tanks and other heavily armoured targets. It can be launched from land and air-
based platforms.
Variants: The helicopter launched version known of NAG missile is known as NAG (HELINA) can be
fired from Dhruv advanced light helicopter (ALH) and HAL Rudra attack helicopter. The land-based

version of missile is at present available for integration on the Nag missile carrier (NAMICA).
March 2, 2018
Only 13% of over hundred tiger conservation areas meet global standards: Survey
March 2, 2018
According to recent survey, only 13% of tiger conservation areas that are part of Conservation
Assured | Tiger Standards (CA|TS) Partnership meet global standards. The survey was conducted
over hundred tiger conservation areas by 11 leading conservation organisations and countries with
tiger ranges that are part of CA|TS Partnership.
Key Findings
The surveyed area is home to approximately 70% of the world’s wild tigers. The survey found that at
least one-third of tiger conservation these areas are severely at risk of losing their tigers and most of
these sites are in Southeast Asia.
Two-thirds of surveyed area is reported fair to strong management, but their basic needs such as
encroachment against poaching, engaging local communities and managing conflict between people
and wildlife remained weak for all surveyed areas.
Despite poaching being one of greatest threats faced by big cats, 85% of the areas surveyed do not
have the staff capacity to patrol sites effectively. 61% of areas in Southeast Asia have very limited
anti-poaching enforcement.
Conservation Assured | Tiger Standards (CA|TS) Partnership
CA|TS is set of criteria that allow tiger sites (conservation areas) to check if their management will
lead to successful tiger conservation. It was officially launched in 2013 and was developed by tiger
and protected area experts. It is organised under seven pillars and 17 elements of critical
management activity. Its mission is to secure safe havens for wild tigers. It is important part of Tx2,
WWF’s global tiger programme that aims to double wild tiger numbers by the year 2022.
Maharashtra’s first Mega Food Park inaugurated at Satara
March 2, 2018
The Maharashtra’s first Mega Food Park named as Satara Mega Food Park Pvt. Ltd. was inaugurated
at Degaon Village in Satara district by Minister of Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal.
This is overall 12th Mega Food Park operationalized in country so far and 10th operationalized during
tenure of present government.
Key Facts
The Mega Food Park will leverage additional investment of about Rs. 250 crores in 25-30 food
processing units in park. It will eventually lead to turnover of about Rs. 450-500 crore annually. The
park will provide direct and indirect employment to 5,000 persons and benefit about 25,000 farmers
in Primary Processing Centers (PPCs) and Collection Centers (CCs) catchment areas.
Mega Food Park Scheme
Ministry of Food Processing Industries is implementing the scheme to give major fillip to food
processing sector by adding value and reducing food wastage at each stage of supply chain with
particular focus on perishables.
The scheme aims to create modern infrastructure facilities for food processing along value chain
from farm to market with strong forward and backward linkages through cluster based approach.
Projects under it are merged under comphrehensive flagship scheme of ‘Pradhan Mantri Kisan
SAMPADA Yojana’.
Under it, common facilities and enabling infrastructure is created at Central Processing Centre
(CPCs) and facilities for primary processing and storage is created near farm in form of PPCs and
CCs. For it, Government provides financial assistance upto Rs. 50.00 Crore per Mega Food Park
project.
Shakti Sthala: World’s largest solar park launched in Karnataka
March 2, 2018
The first phase Shakti Sthala solar park having total capacity of 2,000 megawatts (MW) was
inaugurated in drought-prone Pavagada region of Tumkur district, Karanataka. It is claimed to be
world’s largest solar park.
The park ties in with the Central Government’s scheme to generate 100 gigawatts (GW) of solar
power by 2020. It has been executed within record time of two years, with zero land acquisition

Key Facts
The park’s development was initiated with creation of Karnataka Solar Power Development Corp. Ltd
(KSPDCL) in March 2015 as joint venture between Karnataka Renewable Energy Development Ltd
(KREDL) and Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI).
KSPDCL had used “plug and play” model for development of park, under which it acquires and
develops land as blocks for solar power generation, embedded with required government approvals
and gives it out to solar power developers (SPDs) through auctions.
The solar park is spread over 13,000 acres and five villages. The land was taken on 25-year lease by
government from around 2,300 farmers. In return, these farmers are paid annual rental of Rs.21,000
per acre, with scope for 5% increase every two years.
The first phase of the Rs. 16,500 crore park will generate 600MW power, while the balance 1,400MW
will be commissioned in second phase by end year 2018. The park will decrease dependence on
traditional power sources and move to environmentally friendly ones to meet growing power needs
of state.
It will create employment and act as incentive for natives and farmers to explore new opportunities
of socio-economic growth in the region. It will also curb mass migration of people from the region
which has been declared drought-hit in 54 of the last 60 years.
Size INDIA: NIFT to conduct National Sizing Survey to develop size chart
March 2, 2018
National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT), New Delhi under Ministry of Textiles is going to
conduct National Sizing Survey dubbed as Size India to develop comprehensive size chart for ready-
to-wear industry based on body measurements of Indian population. So far, 14 countries have
successfully completed national sizing surveys that include US, UK, France, Canada, Spain, Germany,
South Korea, Mexico, China and Australia.
Size India project
Size India project is scientific exercise where anthropometric data will be collected from 25,000
sample (with men and women in equal numbers) population in age group 15 to 65 years across six
major cities. The six cities are Kolkata (east), Mumbai (west), New Delhi (north), Bengaluru (south),
Hyderabad (centre), and Shillong (northeast).
The survey entail measuring statistically relevant sample size pan country using human safe
technology of 3D whole body scanner, non-contact method of taking body measurements and
analyzing collected data. It will create database of measurements that will result in standardized size
chart which is representative of Indian population and can be adopted by apparel industry.
Background
At present, in India, either US or UK size system of ‘Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large’ is being used,
and people then go for fitting accordingly. But large percentage of population face difficulty in
finding clothes that fit them perfectly according to their body measurements. This is mainly due to
differences in anthropometric built of people in different geographical regions across the country.
But, this uniform size chart will have standard reference point for ready-to-wear industry and all
India brands will have same size for person.
CBDT achieves important milestone of signing 200 APAs
March 2, 2018
The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT) has crossed an important milestone of having signed 200
Advance Pricing Agreements (APAs). It was achieved after it entered into seven more APAs in
February 2018.
All the seven were Unilateral APAs and pertain to pharmaceuticals, automobiles, financial and food &
beverages sectors of the economy. With this, CBDT till has entered into 203 APAS (185 Unilateral and
18 Bilateral APAs).
Key Facts
The APAs signed so far covers international transactions in manufacturing, provision of software
development services, provision of IT enabled Services (ITES), provision of contract R&D Services,
payment of royalty, Distribution, provision of marketing support services, AMP expenses, provision
of engineering design support services, provision of sourcing support services, payment of interest,
etc.

Advance Pricing Agreement (APA) Scheme

The APA scheme endeavours to provide certainty to taxpayers in domain of transfer pricing by
specifying methods of pricing and setting prices of international transactions in advance. Its
provision was introduced in Income-tax Act, 1961 in 2012 and Rollback provisions were introduced in
2014.
The scheme aims to strengthen Government’s resolve of fostering non-adversarial tax regime. It has
significantly contributed towards improving ease of doing business in India and has been
appreciated nationally and internationally for being able to address complex transfer pricing issues
in a fair and transparent manner.
Cabinet approves Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018
March 2, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved introduction of Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018 in
Parliament. The bill proposed by Finance Ministry aims to curb practice of evading criminal
prosecution by economic offenders (wilful defaulters) who flee from country to evade clutches Indian
law by remaining outside jurisdiction of Indian courts.
Features of Bill
It defines fugitive economic offender (FEO) as any individual against whom warrant for arrest in
relation to scheduled offence (enlisted in the this law) has been issued by any court in India, but he
leaves or has left India to avoid criminal prosecution or refuses to return to
India to face criminal prosecution.

The onus is on authorities to prove that an individual is a fugitive economic offender. It gives
government right to confiscate property of such economic offenders in India and abroad. Its
provisions are also be applicable on proxy-owned properties of economic offenders.
It is applicable in cases where total value involved in such economic offences is Rs.100 crore or more.
It keeps banks and other financial institutions at Centre and provide help to them recover amount.
It establishes Special Court under the Prevention of Money-laundering Act (PMLA), 2002 to declare a
person as FEO. The special court will also appoint ‘administrator’ to oversee confiscated property. It
will be responsible for disposing of confiscated property and t property will be used to satisfy
creditors’ claims.
It debars fugitive economic offender from defending any civil claim at the discretion of any court
including High Court. If prior to the declaration, the alleged FEO returns to India and submits to the
appropriate jurisdictional court, proceedings under this Act will cease by law.
Background
There have been several instances of economic offenders (eg Vijay Mallya and Nirav Modi) fleeing
country to evade clutches Indian law to remain outside jurisdiction of Indian courts. The absence of
such offenders from Indian courts has several deleterious consequences. It hampers investigation in
criminal cases, wastes precious time of courts of law, undermines rule of law in India.
Further, most such cases of economic offences involve non-repayment of bank loans thereby
worsening financial health of banking sector. Moreover, existing non-coherent civil and criminal
provisions in law are not entirely adequate to deal with severity of problem. This bill will provide

effective, expeditious and constitutionally permissible deterrent legal teeth to enforcing agencies to
ensure that such actions of FEO are curbed.
Cabinet approves establishment of National Financial Reporting Authority
March 2, 2018
The Union Cabinet approved establishment of National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA) as an
independent regulator for the auditing profession. It aims to tighten regulatory oversight over
auditors and plug loopholes. It will be independent from those it regulates for enforcement of
auditing standards and ensuring quality of audits.
National Financial Reporting Authority (NFRA)
NFRA will independent regulator under Companies Act, 2013. Its mandate is for establishment and
enforcement of accounting and auditing standards and oversight of work of auditors. It will ensure
quality of audits to strengthen independence of audit firms and therefore, enhance investor and
public confidence in financial disclosures of companies.
Composition: NFRA will be 15 members body, consisting of Chairperson, three full-time Members
and one Secretary.
Functions: It will overarching watchdog for auditing profession. It can debar an erring auditor or
auditing firm for up to 10 years besides it can also slap heavy penalties. Even powers of Institute of
Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI) to act against erring chartered accountants will be vested with
NFRA.
Jurisdiction: It extends investigation of Chartered Accountants and their firms to all listed
companies as well as large unlisted public companies. Government will prescribe thresholds in the
rules. Government can also refer other entities for investigation where public interest is involved.
However, inherent regulatory role of existing ICAI will continue in respect of its members and
specifically to audits pertaining to private limited companies and public unlisted companies below
threshold limit notified in rules. Further, ICAI will continue to play its advisory role with respect to
accounting and auditing standards and policies by making its recommendations to NFRA.
Impact: Establishment of NFRA will improve foreign/domestic investments, enhance of economic
growth, support globalisation of business by meeting international practices and assist in further
development of audit profession.
NFRA and Quality Review Board (QRB): QRB will continue its quality audit in respect of private
limited companies, public unlisted companies below prescribed threshold and also with respect to
audit of companies delegated by NFRA.
Background
The need for establishing NFRA was in wake of accounting scams and to establish independent
regulator independent from those it regulates for enforcement of auditing standards. Its
establishment is in line with key changes brought in by the Companies Act, 2013 which was on
specific recommendations of Standing Committee on Finance (in its 21st report).
Paschim Lehar: Tri-service maritime exercise concludes
March 2, 2018
Tri-service maritime exercise Paschim Lehar conducted by Indian Navy concluded off western coast
in Arabian Sea. The objective of the exercise was to build interoperability between Indian Navy,
Indian Army, Indian Air Force and Coast Guard.
Key Facts
The three-week long exercise tested operational readiness of Indian Navy’s Western Command and
execution of its operational plans, logistics and administrative plans. Over 40 naval assets including
aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya, frontline ships of Western Fleet and Eastern Fleet, including
newly-inducted Kolkata class ones, submarines, potent missile vessels of 22nd Killer Squadron, patrol
vessels and craft of local flotilla and Coast Guard participated in the exercise
The exercise also witnessed intense flying activity by carrier-borne Mig29K, P-8I, IL-38SDs, Dorniers
and Remotely Piloted Aircraft. It also witnessed enhanced participation by Indian Air Force (IAF)
planes, in coordinated flying missions with Indian Navy’s air assets.
Maritime role Jaguars, Su-30 MKI, AWACS and Flight Refuellers participated in large numbers from
different airfields in Gujarat, Maharashtra and North India. Moreover, amphibious landing exercise

was also conducted, which included participation of the 91 Infantry Brigade of Indian Army.
The exercise enabled testing and revalidation of operational plans and manoeuvres in a hostile
maritime scenario on India’s Western seaboard. It also rehearsed defence of Indian offshore assets
like oil rigs, escort operations of merchant ships and coastal defence.
India, Jordan ink 12 agreements
March 2, 2018
India and Jordan have 12 agreements covering areas as diverse as defence, mass media, health,
culture and tourism. These agreements were signed after the highlevel talks between Prime Minister
Narendra Modi and Jordanian King Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein in New Delhi. Jordanian King was on
three days visit to India. It was his only second to India, that too after more than a decade.
Signed Agreements are
MoU on Defence Cooperation
Cultural Exchange Programme (CEP)
Customs Mutual Assistance Agreement
MoU between PrasarBharati and Jordan TV
Twining Agreement between Agra and Petra (Jordan)
Visa waiver for diplomatic and official passport holders
MoU for long term supply of Rock Phosphate and Fertilizer/NPK
MoU for setting up of the next generation Centre of Excellence (COE) in Jordan
MoU for cooperation in the field of Health and Medicine between India and Jordan
MoU between University of Jordan (UJ) and ICCR regarding setting up of a Hindi Chair at the University
Cooperation between Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC) and Jordan Media Institute (JMI)
India-Jordan Relations
Both countries had established diplomatic relations in 1950 after India became independent in 1947.
Recent years have witnessed decisive impetus to the bilateral partnership. Both countries are facing
common threat of terrorism and extremism. Over the last few years, political, security and economic
developments in West Asia are helping the two countries re-discover each other.
India is Jordan’s fourth largest trading partner. Bilateral trade between both countries has totalled
US $2.2 billion in 2014-15. India exported $1.4 billion worth of goods to Jordan, and imported $857
million. Since 2012-13, the balance of trade has been in India’s favour.
March 3, 2018
Arunachal Express connecting Naharlagun-Anand Vihar flagged off
March 3, 2018
A new train between Naharlagun in Arunachal Pradesh and Anand Vihar Terminal in the national
capital named Arunachal Express was flagged off. This is the second direct train for Arunachal
Pradesh and overall 14th for North East to connect with the national capital.
Arunachal Express
The train will cover 2013 kilometre distance between Naharlagun (Arunachal Pradesh) and Anand
Vihar Terminal (New Delhi) in over 38 hours and will have 14 stoppages en-route. It has all air-
conditioned LHB (Linke Hofmann Busch) coaches. It will offer all comfort and facilities to the
passengers.
Background
Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his visit to Itanagar in February 2018 had announced
increasing frequency of Naharlagun-New Delhi AC Express train from one day week to twice and to
rechristened it as ‘Arunachal Express’.
Navjot Kaur: First Indian woman to win gold medal at Asian Wrestling Championships
March 3, 2018
Ace wrestler Navjot Kaur won gold medal in the 65kg freestyle wrestling category of Senior Asian
Championships held in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan. With this, she created history by becoming first Indian
woman wrestler to win gold medal in Senior Asian Championships. This was also India’s first gold in
the ongoing championships. In the final match the women’s 65kg freestyle wrestling category,
Navjot defeated Japan’s Miya Imai by 9-1 score.
Earlier, Rio Olympics bronze medallist Sakshi Malik had who won the bronze in 62kg freestyle

category after defeating Kazakhstan’s Ayaulym Kassymova 10-7. These two medals have taken India’s
overall medal tally to six, which consisted one gold, silver and four bronze medals.
Navjot Kaur
Navjot Kaur (born 10 February 1990) represents India in the women’s freestyle wrestling in 67 kg
category. She had won Bronze medal (67 kg category) at 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games. In
Asian Wrestling Championships, she had won Bronze medal in 2011, Silver medal in 2013. In 2013
Wrestling World Cup held in Ulanbaatar she had won Bronze medal.
China to build nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Liaoning within 7 years
March 3, 2018
The China Shipbuilding Industry Corporation (CSIC) has announced to build its first nuclear-
powered aircraft carrier Liaoning by the middle of the next decade. It was announced as part of its
list of ambitions hope to achieve in weaponry and technical developments for People’s Liberation
Army (PLA)-Navy by 2025.
Key Facts
China has ambition to have four carrier groups operating with PLA-Navy by 2030. The Liaoning is
currently only carrier in fleet, but its variant Type 001A is expected to go into full service by end of
2018. The Type 001A was first aircraft carrier built indigenously by shipyard workers in China.
Liaoning is derived from old and unfinished Soviet hull, purchased by China from Ukraine.
At present, China’s navy has two aircraft carriers running on conventional oil. French Navy’s
flagship, the Charles de Gaulle is only non-US aircraft carrier powered by nuclear reactors. US Navy’s
each Nimitz-class and Ford-class carrier is run by nuclear power.
PSBs begin to rationalise 35 overseas operations
March 3, 2018
The state-owned banks have started rationalising overseas operations by consolidating 35 operations
and closing down non-viable branches as part of the clean and responsible banking initiative. The
consolidation oncludes bank branches, remittance centres and representative offices.
It will be without affecting international presence of PSBs in these countries. Moreover, 69
operations also have been identified for further examination. It is part of government’s commitment
to ‘clean and responsible banking and move towards cost efficiencies and synergies in overseas
market.
Background
The rationalisation of overseas operations of banks comes at the time when jewellery designer Nirav
Modi had allegedly cheated Punjab National Bank (PNB) of Rs.12,700 crore in connivance with PNB
staff and officials of overseas branches of other state-owned banks.
Presently, public sector banks have about 165 overseas branches, besides subsidiaries, joint ventures
and representative offices. State Bank of India (SBI) has largest number of overseas branches (52)
followed by Bank of Baroda (50) and Bank of India (29). The state-owned banks have largest number
of branches in United Kingdom (32) followed by Hong Kong and UAE (13 each) and Singapore (12). As
per the banking sector agenda approved at PSB Manthan in November 2017 public sector banks
(PSBs) have to examine all 216 overseas operations.

ICG C-162: Bharati Defence delivers interceptor boat to Coast Guard

March 3, 2018
Bharati Defence and Infrastructure Ltd (BDIL) delivered high-speed interceptor boat ICG C-162 to
Indian Coast Guard (ICG) at BDIL jetty in Mangaluru, Karnataka. It is fifth interceptor boat delivered
by BDIL’s Mangaluru shipyard to ICG. The sixth boat will be delivered after three-and-a-half months
of the delivery of the fifth boat.
ICG C-162
The vessel will be based at Kochi, Kerala and will be used for patrolling purposes. It can accommodate
11 crew members. The vessel was launched in January 2018 and has successfully completed the
harbour and sea trials.
It is 28 metres long with aluminium hull and weighs about 60 DWT. It is designed for a speed up to
35 knots. It is fitted with new generation of Arneson Surface Drive propulsion system, propelled by
two engines of 1650 kW each.
Government approves Rs 2,919 crore projects under Nirbhaya fund to create 8 safe cities
March 3, 2018
The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development has approved projects worth Rs 2,919 crore
under Nirbhaya Fund for creating eight safe cities. They are Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Ahmedabad,
Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad and Lucknow.
Key Facts
The projects for safe cities will have special focus on women safety in public spaces and quick
response systems to create deterrence against crime. Plans for safe cities were prepared in
coordination with municipal corporations and police commissionerates of these cities.
Delhi: Project worth Rs 663 crore was approved to enhance safety of public places like roads, schools
and metro stations. It includes use of latest technology such as video monitoring, facial recognition
analytics, and person tracking systems. It will also provide dedicated women safety patrol vans

equipped with GPS tracking and on-board video feed sharing to the existing fleet of the Delhi Police.
Mumbai: Project worth Rs 252 crore was sanctioned to enable GIS mapping of criminal hotspots,
video surveillance, training of investigating officers and quick response police teams. It will also
strengthen Police Didi programme wherein female police officers interact with women living in
slums.
Chennai: It will receive Rs 425 crore for project that will create safe-zone clusters at hot crime zones,
security in public transport, GIS-based crime mapping, capacity building of police authorities as well
as a helpdesk service for women. Moreover, cyber-crime and legal assistance compensation lab will
also be set up.
Ahmedabad: Rs 253 crore was approved for ABHAYAM Vans for quick response to women in
distress, ‘She Teams’ of women for surveillance and One Stop Crisis Centres. The project also
envisages redevelopment of Sabarmati River Front to make it more womenfriendly.
Kolkata: It will get Rs 181.32 crore for various schemes, including for strengthening nine women
police stations. Bengaluru: It will get Rs 667 crore for projects which will be utilised for setting up
women police outposts and creation of safety islands.
Nirbhaya Fund
The fund is created by Ministry of Finance in 2013. It dedicated for implementation of initiatives
aimed at enhancing the safety and security for women in the country. It is a non-lapsable corpus
fund. It is being monitored by Empowered Committee of Officers under Secretary of Women and
Child Development Ministry. It is an inter-ministerial committee appraises and recommends various
projects (schemes) proposed by different ministries to be funded from Nirbhaya Fund. Between 2013
and 2017, the corpus of Nirbhaya Fund has grown to Rs 3,100 crore.
Indian Navy sailboat INSV Tarini arrives in Cape Town, South Africa
March 3, 2018
Indian Navy’s sailboat INSV Tarini, led by all-women crew, reached Cape Town, South Africa as part
of Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition. This stop is last phase of its maiden voyage to circumnavigate
globe before it depart Cape Town and return to Goa in April 2018, on completion of the voyage.
So far the vessel has covered 1,75,00 nautical miles from its start in Goa in September 2017. The
expedition was covered all five legs, with stop-overs at Fremantle (Australia), Lyttleton (New
Zealand), Port Stanley (Falklands-UK), and Cape Town (South Africa). The vessel has passed through
Indian, Pacific and Atlantic oceans so far.
Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition
The Navika Sagar Parikrama expedition was flagged-off by Nirmala Sitharaman Goa in September
2017. This is the first-ever Indian circumnavigation of the globe by an all-women crew.
The vessel is skippered by Lieutenant Commander Vartika Joshi, and all women crew comprises
Lieutenant Commanders Pratibha Jamwal, P Swathi, and Lieutenants S Vijaya Devi, B Aishwarya and
Payal Gupta.
The expedition is consonance with national policy to empower women to attain their full potential. It
also aims to showcase Nari Shakti on world platform and help in transforming societal attitudes and
mindset towards women in India by raising visibility of their participation in challenging
environments.
The crew is collating and updating meteorological, ocean and wave data on regular basis for accurate
weather forecast by India Meteorological Department (IMD), as also monitoring marine pollution on
high seas. The indigenously-built INSV Tarini is 56-foot sailing vessel. It showcases ‘Make in India’
initiative on international forum.
India, Russia, Bangladesh sign pact for Rooppur atomic plant
March 3, 2018
India, Bangladesh and Russia have signed tripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) for
cooperation in construction of Rooppur nuclear power plant near Dhaka, Bangladesh. It is first
initiative under India-Russia nuclear deal to undertake atomic energy projects in third countries. It
will also be India’s first atomic energy venture abroad.
Rooppur nuclear power plant
Rooppur Nuclear project is having capacity of 2*1200 MWs. It is Bangladesh’s first atomic energy

project. It is being built with Russia’s help near Dhaka. After commissioning of this plant, Bangladesh
will become third South Asian country after India and Pakistan to harness atomic energy for energy
purpose.
Russia will build nuclear power plant for this plant on a turnkey basis. It means that contractor will
complete whole project and they will be liable for any problems that arise in plant. Russia’s scope of
work includes design, production and supply of equipment, construction, installation, start-up and
commissioning.
India being not member of Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) will not participate directly in
construction of atomic power reactors. But, Indian companies will be involved in construction and
installation works and in supply of equipment of non-critical category.
Background
In December 2014, India and Russia had signed ‘Strategic Vision for Strengthening Cooperation in
Peaceful Uses of Atomic Energy’ to explore opportunities for sourcing materials, equipment and
services from Indian industry for construction of Russian-designed nuclear power plants in third
countries. Moreover, India had signed a civil nuclear cooperation deal, along with two more
agreements, with Bangladesh in April 2017 under which two sides can supply and manufacture
equipment, material for atomic power plant.
Comment
The nuclear deal with Bangladesh allows Indian nuclear establishment to grow, internationally as for
years it was not been able to grow due to sanctions imposed on New Delhi post 1974 Pokhran tests.
However, it is not clear what kind of nuclear collaboration India is having with Bangladesh since both
countries are not members of Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG), an elite grouping of 48 members that
prevent nuclear proliferation by controlling export of materials, equipment and technology that can
be used to manufacture nuclear weapons.
March 3: World Wildlife Day
March 3, 2018
The World Wildlife Day is observed every year on 3rd March to celebrate and raise awareness about
the world’s wild fauna and flora. It is celebrated to mark the signing of Convention on International
Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES) on this day in 1973.
Significance of Day
It aims to create awareness and encourages people across the globe to protect endangered species.
It also calls for taking up urgent steps to fight wildlife crime which has wide-ranging environmental, economic
and social impacts.
The theme for this year is ‘Big Cats: Predators under Threat’. Big cats are among most widely
recognized and admired animals across the globe. These predators are facing many and varied
threats, mostly caused by human activities. Overall, their populations are declining at disturbing rate
due to loss of habitat and prey, conflicts with people, poaching and illegal trade. The theme aims to
raise awareness about plight of big cats and galvanize support for many global and national actions
that underway to save these iconic species. It also expands definition of big cats being used, which
includes not only lion, tiger, leopard and jaguar (4 largest wild cats that can roar) but also cheetah,
snow leopard, puma, clouded leopard, etc.
Background
The World Wildlife Day was designated by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) at its 68th
session on 20 December 2013. On this day in 1973, CITES was adopted.
Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES)
CITES is international agreement to regulate worldwide commercial trade in wild animal and plant
species. Its aim is to ensure that international trade does not threaten the survival of the species in
the wild. It was drafted as a result of a resolution adopted in 1963 at a meeting of members of IUCN.
It entered into force in July 1975.
It is administered through United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). It’s secretariat is
located in Geneva (Switzerland). CITES is legally binding on state parties to the convention, which
are obliged to adopt their own domestic legislation to implement its goals.
It classifies plants and animals according to three categories, or appendices, based on how

threatened. In addition CITES also restricts trade in items made from such plants and animals, such
as food, clothing, medicine, and souvenirs.
March 4-5, 2018
India and Vietnam inked 3 agreements
March 5, 2018
India and Vietnam have signed three agreements including landmark pact on civil nuclear
cooperation to boost bilateral relations. These agreements were inked after Prime Minister Narendra
Modi held talks with visiting President of Vietnam, Tran Dai Quang in New Delhi. Vietnam is one of
India’s closest strategic partners in the ASEAN region.
Signed Agreements are
MoU on Economic and Trade Cooperation: Its purpose is to establish a framework for enhancing
economic and trade promotion.
MoU on Cooperation in the field of atomic energy: It was signed between the Global Centre for
Nuclear Energy Partnership, India (GCNEP) and Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute (VINATOM). Its
purpose is to strengthen the technical cooperation in the field of atomic energy for peaceful
purposes.
Work Plan for years 2018-2022 in Agriculture: It was signed between Indian Council of Agricultural
Research (ICAR) and Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam. Its purpose is to
promote cooperation in transfer of technology and exchange of visits of technical experts in the
fields of agriculture and allied.
Key Takeaways from Joint Statement issued
India and Vietnam agreed to work for independent, open and prosperous Indo-Pacific region where
sovereignty and international laws are respected and disputes are resolved through dialogue. They
are committed to expanding maritime ties and ensure an open, transparent, inclusive and rules-
based regional architecture.
Both countries will work together for regional security, including maritime and cyber security. They
respect the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and will further deepen Comprehensive
Strategic Partnership.
Both countries agreed to increase cooperation in defence production and also explore possibilities in
co-production and transfer of technology in defence sector as defence and security is important
pillar of the strong bilateral ties.
Both countries will further strengthen trade and investment ties, including in sectors like
agriculture and agro-products, renewable energy, textiles and oil and gas. They will also strengthen
their longstanding bilateral partnership in oil and gas and explore possibilities of working with other
countries for trilateral partnership. They will increase two-way investment and hoped that bilateral
trade will reach $15 billion by 2020.
Odisha Government launches Ama Gaon, Ama Vikas programme
March 5, 2018
Odisha Government has launched ‘Ama Gaon, Ama Vikas’ (Our Village, our development) programme
to reach out to people in rural areas and involve themselves in developmental activities.
As part of it, Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik flagged off mobile video vans that will move across the
state to highlight various welfare schemes at villages in the state. It will enable people to connect
with the government
Key Facts
Under this programme, people can directly send their grievances to Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) at
Secretariat in Bhubaneswar through Wi-Fi enabled latest technology video wall vans. This initiative
administration will help people in solving their grievances instantly. In the first phase of programme,
these vans will reach Koraput, Jajpur, Ganjam and Sambalpur districts of state.
India, Vietnam inks MoU on Cooperation in field of atomic energy
March 5, 2018
India and Vietnam have signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in field of
atomic energy during official state visit Tran Dai Quang, President of Vietnam to India. It was signed
between Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership, India (GCNEP) and Vietnam Atomic Energy
Institute (VINATOM). Its purpose is to strengthen technical cooperation in field of atomic energy for

peaceful purposes.
Global Centre for Nuclear Energy Partnership (GCNEP)
GCNEP is sixth Research & Development unit under Department of Atomic Energy (DAE). It is
located near Bahadurgarh, Haryana. It helps in capacity building, in association with interested
countries and International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). It is involved technology, human resource
development, education & training and giving momentum to R&D in enlisted areas.
Objectives of GCNEP
Develop enhanced nuclear safeguards to effectively and efficiently monitor nuclear materials and
facilities.
Establish accreditation facilities for radiation monitoring.
Train manpower in field of Nuclear Security and Radiological Safety.
Promote development of advanced, more proliferation resistant nuclear power reactors.
Provide education in field of Advanced Nuclear Energy Systems, Isotopes and Radiation
Technologies, nuclear forensic.
Krishna Kumari Kohli: Pakistan elects first Hindu woman to Senate
March 5, 2018
Krishna Kumari Kolhi (39) from Sindh province in Pakistan became first-ever Dalit Hindu woman to
get elected as Senator, member of upper house (Senate) of Muslim-majority country.
She won the election for the reserved seat for women from Sindh province. She is a member of
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari-led Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). Her election represents major milestone
for women and minority rights in Pakistan. Earlier, PPP had elected first Hindu woman named Ratna
Bhagwandas Chawla as senator.
Krishna Kumari Kohli
She belongs to remote village in Nagarparkar district of Thar in Sindh province of Pakistan. Kohli
was born in February 1979 in poor family. She and her family members had spent nearly three years
in private jail (as forced bonded labours) owned by landlord of Kunri in Umerkot district. She was
grade 3 student at time when her family held captive.
She belongs to family of valiant freedom fighter Rooplo Kolhi, who had waged a war against invading
British colonialist forces when they had attacked Sindh from Nagarparkar side in 1857.
At the age of 16, she was married to Lalchand. Even after marriage she pursued her studies and in
2013 completed masters in sociology from the Sindh University. She had joined PPP as social activist
along with her brother, who was later elected as Chairman of Union Council Berano. She has actively
participated and worked for rights of downtrodden people of marginalised communities living in
Thar and other areas.
India 12th largest overseas holder of US securities in 2017
March 5, 2018
According to recent figures compiled by US Treasury Department, India is 12th largest overseas
holder of US government securities. India’s exposure to it has risen sharply to high of US $144.7
billion at end of 2017.
The preliminary data from June 2017 benchmark survey of foreign portfolio holdings of US securities
showed that total value of such holding was $18.44 trillion. Out of the total, $7.19 trillion was in
equities, $10.29 trillion in long-term debt securities and $954 billion in short-term debt securities.
Key Facts
India holdings in US government securities in 2017 have raised except for few months when total
exposure had declined. India’s holding of India went up to US $144.7 billion in December 2017, which
was increase of little over $26 billion compared to year-ago period.
In December 2016, India’s exposure was just $118.2 billion. While holding at end of December 2017 is
at one-year high compared to December 2016, the exposure was slightly higher at $145.1 billion in
September 2017.
In 2017, China was largest holder of US government securities with holdings to tune of $1.18 trillion,
followed by Japan at $1.06 trillion. Ireland was third with holdings of $326.5 billion followed by
Cayman Islands ($269.9 billion), Brazil ($256.8 billion), UK ($250 billion), Switzerland ($249.6 billion),
Luxembourg ($217.6 billion), Hong Kong ($194.7 billion) and Taiwan ($180.9 billion). Among the BRIC
countries, India had the third largest exposure while that of Russia was lower at $102.2 billion.

Myanmar puts off border agreement with India

March 5, 2018
Myanmar has indefinitely deferred signing agreement with India to streamline free movement of
people within 16 km along open border between two countries. It has cited domestic compulsions
and has asked for more time for the agreement to be sealed.
Background
India and Myanmar share 1,643 km unfenced border along four states viz. Arunachal Pradesh (520
km), Nagaland (215 km), Manipur (398 km) and Mizoram (510 km) and permit free movement regime
(FMR) upto 16 km beyond border. In January 2018, Union Cabinet had approved agreement
(Memorandum of Understanding) between India and Myanmar on land border crossing to enhance
economic interaction between people of two countries. To give it shape, Central Government had
asked four border states with Myanmar to distribute “border pass” to all the residents living within
16 km from the border. The agreement has been deferred twice in the past seven months.
Significance of agreement
The agreement will facilitate movement of people on basis of valid passports and visas which will
enhance economic and social interaction between two countries. It will facilitate regulation and
harmonization of already existing free movement rights for people ordinarily residing in border
areas of both countries.
It will also give boost to economy of North East and leverage geographical connections with
Myanmar to boost trade and people to people ties. It will also safeguard traditional rights of largely
tribal communities residing along border which are accustomed to free movement across land
border.
Free movement regime (FMR)
FMR was bilateral agreement between India and Myanmar that allows free movement of Indian and
Myanmarese citizens within 16 km of the border without visa restrictions for 72 hours. Its purpose is
to alleviate insecurity of tribals living along India and Myanmar border as they still continue to have
trans-border linkages with their kiths and kins. This regime has been in place to protect traditional
social relations among border people. However, it has been misused by militants and criminals who
are using it to smuggle weapons, narcotics, contraband goods and Fake Indian Currency Notes
(FICN). Both countries are intend to put common system in place to append India’s concerns.
Border Pass Proposal
There are over 250 villages with over 300,000 people living within 10 km of border who frequently
cross it through 150 small and large, formal and informal, border crossings. As per proposal, there
will be no restrictions on movement of people across borders. But, domiciles across the border will be
allotted border passes and those going across for agriculture, work or to meet relatives need to carry
pass all times.
90th Academy Awards (Oscars 2018)
March 5, 2018
The 90th Academy Awards commonly referred to as Oscars was held at the Dolby Theatre in
Hollywood, Los Angeles, California (US). The award presented in 24 categories by Academy of Motion
Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS), honouring best films of year 2017.
The Shape of Water won the most number of awards totaling to four at the ceremony after it was
nominated into highest 13 categories. It was followed by Dunkirk, nominated for eight categories and

Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, nominated for seven categories.

Winners are
Best Picture: The Shape of Water.
Best Actress: Frances McDormand (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri as Mildred Hayes).
Best Actor: Gary Oldman (Darkest Hour as Winston Churchill)
Best Director: Guillermo del Toro (The Shape of Water).
Best Supporting Actress: Allison Janney – I (Tonya)
Best Supporting Actor: Sam Rockwell (Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri)
Best Original Screenplay: Get Out – Written by Jordan Peele.
Best Adapted Screenplay: Call Me by Your Name – James Ivory based on the novel by André Aciman.
Best Cinematography: Blade Runner 2049 – Roger A. Deakins
Best Original Score: The Shape of Water – Alexandre Desplat.
Best Original Song: “Remember Me” from Coco.
Best Sound Editing: Dunkirk – Richard King and Alex Gibson.
Best Foreign Language Film: A Fantastic Woman (Chile) in Spanish.
Best Film Editing: Dunkirk
Best Visual Effects: Blade Runner 2049.
Best Production Design: The Shape of Water.
Best Sound Mixing: Dunkirk
Best Documentary-Feature: Icarus.
Best Animated Feature Film: Coco.
Best Animated Short Film: Dear Basketball.
Best Documentary-Short Subject: Heaven Is a Traffic Jam on the 405
Best Live Action Short Film: The Silent Child.
Best Make-Up and Hairstyling: Darkest Hour
Best Costume Design: Phantom Thread
Academy Awards (Oscars)
Academy Awards, famously known as “Oscars” is a group of 24 artistic and technical honours that
recognizes excellence in cinematic achievements in US film industry. It is given annually by the
Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS). The award was first presented in 1929. The
winners are awarded a copy of a statuette officially called the Academy Award of Merit (famously
referred as Oscar Award).
Marshall Islands to launch world-first digital legal tender
March 5, 2018
Marshall Islands in Pacific Ocean is set to become first country in world to recognize cryptocurrency
as its legal tender and adopt transparent crypto monetary system. The parliament of island has
passed law to create the digital currency called “Sovereign” with symbol SOV to raise some hard cash
to pay bills and boost economy.
Key Facts
The Marshall Islands is partnering with Israeli fintech startup Neema to launch its SOV. It will have
equal status with US dollar as form of payment. The island country will issue 24 million SOVs in
Initial Currency Offering (ICO). It will be circulated as legal tender in the country, alongside its
current local currency, US dollar.
SOV issued by Marshall Islands will be different from other cryptocurrencies including bitcoin
because it will be officially recognized by law as legal tender and effectively backed by government.
SOV is based on permissioned protocol, dubbed “‘Yokwe” (meaning “hello” in local island language),
which requires blockchain users of this distal currency to authenticate and identify themselves, thus
avoid anonymity that has kept other cryptocurrencies from gaining support from governments.
Initially 6 million SOVs will be sold to international investors and proceeds from it will be used to pay
for its budget, invest in projects to mitigate effects of global warming and support those people still
affected by US nuclear testing. It will also hand out 2.4 million SOVs to its residents and they can use
it for everything from paying taxes to buying groceries,

Background
The Marshall Islands is closely aligned with US under Compact of Free Association and uses US
dollar as its official currency. Under compact association, US provides the Marshall Islands with
about $70 million each year in assistance. In turn, US runs a military base on Island’s Kwajalein Atoll.
Venezuela was the first country to officially launch its own cryptocurrency named Petro, backed by
crude oil reserves but its validity as legal tender is not yet known.
Silver copper telluride (AgCuTe): Researchers develop thermoelectric compound
March 5, 2018
Researchers have developed silver copper telluride (AgCuTe), a novel compound that exhibits poor
thermal conductivity but shows good electrical conductivity. It was developed by researchers from
Jawaharlal Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), Bengaluru.
AgCuTe
The new material having thermoelectric properties is made from silver, copper, and tellurium. It
shows high levels of thermoelectric performance i.e. exhibits poor thermal conductivity in 25-425
degree C range but shows good electrical conductivity.
Due to its low thermal conductivity, one end of 8 mm-long AgCuTe rod which is contact with waste
heat remains hot while other end maintains cold temperature. This temperature difference results in
generation of electrical voltage. The material also exhibits good electrical conductivity like metal at
same time.
Significance: The compound shows ideal promise as thermoelectric material for converting waste
heat into electricity. Its potential applications as thermoelectric technology are in automobile
industry, thermal, chemical and steel power plants where large quantities of heat are wasted.
March 6, 2018
Neil Basu: Indian-origin UK officer appointed new Chief of Scotland Yard’s Counter-terrorism Unit
March 6, 2018
Senior Indian-origin Scotland Yard officer Neil Basu became first person of Asian heritage to be
appointed as Counterterrorism Chief. He will take charge as Scotland Yard’s National Lead for
Counter Terrorism (CT) and Head of Met Police’s Specialist Operations.
Key Facts
Basu will replace Mark Rowley, Met assistant commissioner who has been in charge of
counterterrorism unit since June 2014 and had resigned recently. He is currently Metropolitan Police
Deputy Assistant Commissioner and will be promoted to rank of Assistant Commissioner for
Specialist Operations. Basu’s father is of Indian origin.
Scotland Yard (officially New Scotland Yard)
It is officially New Scotland Yard. It is metonym for headquarters of Metropolitan Police Service
(MPS), the territorial police force responsible for policing most of London. Its name derives from
location of original Metropolitan Police headquarters at 4 Whitehall Place, which rear entrance on
street had called Great Scotland Yard. The first MPS was opened on 6 October 1829 on street called
Great Scotland Yard, at rear of 4 Whitehall Place. Now, Scotland Yard building is owned by Indian
billionaire Yusuff Ali M.A, chairman of Lulu Group International.
Services PMI contracts to 47.8 in February 2018
March 6, 2018
The Nikkei India Services Business Activity Index contracted at 47.8 in February 2018 compared with
51.7 in January 2018. A reading above 50 implies an expansion while one below 50 denotes a
contraction.
The contraction shows that activity and new work in services sector declined for the first time since
November 2017, with rates of contraction the fastest since August 2017.
Key Facts
The fall in the services index outweighed the upturn seen in manufacturing PMI in February 2018.
Business activity in services sector contracted in February 2018 due primarily to a decline in new
orders. Both activity and new work in the services sector has declined for the first time since
November 2017, with rates of contraction the strongest since August 2017.
PMI
PMI is an indicator of business activity-both in the manufacturing and services sectors. It is

published by Markit Limited. It is a survey-based measure that asks respondents about changes in
their perception of some key business variables from month before. It is calculated separately for
manufacturing and services sectors and then composite index is constructed. The index figure above
50 denotes expansion in business activity and anything below 50 denotes contraction.
Government sets up Subhash Chandra Garg Committee to regulate fintech sector
March 6, 2018
The Union Government has set up 8 member steering committee look into the development and
regulation of the financial technology (fintech) sector in India. It will be headed by Economic Affairs
Secretary Subhash Garg. The move follows an announcement by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the
Budget.
Members: Electronics and Information Technology Secretary, Financial Services Secretary, MSME
Secretary, Chairperson of Central Board of Excise and Customs, Deputy Governor of Reserve Bank of
India, Chief Executive Officer of Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) and Joint Secretary
Department of Economic Affairs.
Terms of References
Committee’s objective is to consider various issues relating to development of fintech sector in India.
It will look into issues to make fintech-related regulations more flexible and generate enhanced
entrepreneurship in area where India has distinctive comparative strengths vis-à-vis other emerging
economies.
It will find ways of using fintech in critical sectors of economy, including financing of micro, small
and medium enterprises (MSMEs), delivery of e-services to vulnerable sections of society,
management of land records and other government services. It will also focus on how fintech can be
leveraged to enhance financial inclusion of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
It will examine means of using data available with Goods and Services Tax Network (GSTN) and
information utilities such as credit information companies to make applications for financing of
MSMEs. It will also work with entities such as UIDAI to create and use unique enterprise
identification number.
India-US team test-fires M777 ultra-light howitzers in Pokhran
March 6, 2018
Joint investigation committee (JIC) comprising US and Indian officials has test-fired M777 ultra-light
howitzers (ULH) at Pokhran firing range in Rajasthan. The team will review results of this test soon.
The test was conducted in the wake of accident during its trial in September 2017.
Background
In November 2016, India signed Rs 5,070-crore deal with US to procure 145 M777 ULH for
deployment on mountainous terrain in northern and eastern borders. It was first such induction of
artillery guns since Swedish Bofors guns in late-1980s, which got embroiled in political controversy.
As part of deal, two M777 ULHs were brought to India May 2017 for field firing with Indian
ammunition to compile firing tables that provide data such as range and elevation. But during
September 2017 trial firing, the projectile had bursted in barrel of howitzers. After accident, two sides
had formed joint team to examine issue.
M777 Ultra-Light Howitzers (ULH) artillery Guns
It is manufactured by BAE Systems’ Global Combat Systems division. It is smaller and lighter. It
weighs 4,100 kg and can be easily transported by helicopters. It has effective firing range of 24 km.
Under India-US M777 deal, 25 ULHs will be inducted directly with rest to be assembled at BAE
Systems facility in Maharashtra in partnership with Mahindra Group. The delivery is to be completed
by 2021.
Indian Army is going to deploy these artillery guns in high-altitude areas in Arunachal Pradesh and
Ladakh, bordering China. Its induction will give Indian defence forces a much needed operational
advantage and an access to state of art technology.
WTO to set up compliance panel in solar dispute case between India, US
March 6, 2018
The dispute settlement body (DSB) of World Trade Organization (WTO) has decided to set up panel to
examine whether India has complied with its 2016 ruling in case against US regarding domestic
content requirements (DCR) rules for solar cells and modules.

Background
In 2016, the multilateral body had ruled against India for favouring local manufacturers in its solar
power programme, on petition filed by US. But after ruling, US had alleged that India continues to
apply WTO-inconsistent measures and had approached WTO demanding action against India for
non-compliance of WTO ruling in December 2017. India, however, has maintained that it has
complied with WTO’s ruling and had requested WTO to set up a panel to determine its compliance
with rulings of dispute.
What is the issue?
In 2013, US had filed complaint before WTO, arguing that domestic content requirement imposed
under India’s ambitious Jawaharlal Nehru National Solar Mission (NSM) violates global trading rules
by unfavourably discriminating against imported solar cells and modules. In February 2016, WTO
panel had ruled that India had violated its national treatment obligation, by imposing the domestic
content requirement. US had claimed that its solar exports to India have fallen by more than 90%
since India had brought in the DCR rules.
Dispute Settlement Body (DSB)
WTO is an intergovernmental organization that regulates international trade. General Council of
WTO convenes as DSB to deal with disputes between WTO members. Such disputes may arise with
respect to any agreement contained in Final Act of Uruguay Round that is subject to Understanding
on Rules and Procedures Governing the Settlement of Disputes (DSU).
The DSB has authority to establish dispute settlement panels, refer matters to arbitration, adopt
panel, Appellate Body and arbitration reports, and maintain surveillance over implementation of
recommendations and rulings. It can also authorize suspension of concessions in event of non-
compliance with those recommendations and rulings.
India’s first HeliTaxi service launched in Bengaluru
March 6, 2018
India’s first helicopter shuttle service (HeliTaxi) was launched in IT capital Bengaluru, Karnataka n a
bid to provide last-mile connectivity. The maiden trip of helitaxi was between Electronic City and
Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru. It was provided by Thumby Aviation.
Need
Bengaluru has poor road density (measure of road length per square km area of land) as compared to
other Indian cities. So such service was needed much more than other cities to ferry air passengers
to and from the city. The decision to launch HeliTaxi was announced in August 2017 by Union
Minister of State (MoS) for Civil Aviation Jayant Sinha.
Key Facts
HeliTaxi provides connectivity between Airport and Electronic City (located in south about 70 km
from airport in the city centre), home to hundreds of technology firms including, Infosys and other
multinationals. It has reduced travelling time between airport and Electronic City from two hours
(by road) to 15 minutes.
The fare is fixed at Rs. 4,130 per seat, including GST. It includes pick up from airport terminal to
helipad and allows carrying 15 kg luggage. People can book their seat through a mobile app named
‘Heli Taxii’. Currently, the chopper service provider has employed only one helicopter to ferry air
passengers and will increase number depending on demand.
Iraq overtakes Saudi Arabia as India’s biggest Oil Supplier
March 6, 2018
Iraq has overtaken Saudi Arabia to become India’s top crude oil supplier by supplying 38.9 million
tonnes (MT) crude oil in the current financial year. It was fifth of the India’s oil needs.
India is 80% dependent on imports to meet its oil needs. India had imported 184.4 MT of crude oil
during April-January period of 2017-18 period as compared to 213.9 MT in the entire 2016-17 fiscal,
and 202.8 MT in 2015-16.
Key Facts
Saudi Arabia traditionally has been India’s top oil source but Iraq dethroned it. Saudi Arabia supplied
30.9 MT of crude oil in first 10 months of current fiscal. Iran continued to be third largest supplier,
selling 18.4 MT during April-January. This is the second year in a row that Iran has occupied the
third position. Venezuela is India’s fourth largest supplier with 15.5 MT during April-January,

followed by Nigeria with 14.9 MT.

Imports from West Asia
India’s dependence on West Asia for its crude oil needed has increased from 58% in 2014-15 to 63.7%
in April-January period of this fiscal. India had imported 109.9 MT out of 189.4 MT of total crude
imports in 2014-15 from region. In the current fiscal so far, West Asia has accounted for 117.5 MT of
crude oil supplies to India.
Reasons for increase of imports from Iraq
Iraq was able dethrone Saudi Arabia as India’s largest crude oil supplier mainly by supplying heavily
discounted crude compared to crude oil sold by Saudi Arabia at Official Selling Price of OPEC. In
given time period, prices of crude oil had shot up following production cuts by OPEC members.
However, Iraq did not followed the aggressive pricing due to its heavy dependence on oil revenues to
fund its economy. Moreover, Indian refiners in recent years have invested heavily in modernising
plants to more efficiently process low grade crudes including Basra heavy crude from Iraq, giving
greater flexibility in the cost-saving oil grades they can buy.
Saposhi: Threat of new malware looms over cyberspace
March 6, 2018
Cybersecurity agencies have detected a new malware called Saposhi that can take over electronic
devices and use them for Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. Saposhi Malware is capable of
taking over electronic devices and turning them into bots (device taken over by malware) which can
then be used for any purpose, including DDoS attacks which, with enough firepower, can cripple
entire industries.
Key Facts
Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT), a Central government body that deals with
cyberattacks has so far has not issued any alert regarding Saposhi malware. Saposhi is similar in its
intensity to Reaper malware, which was taking over millions of devices at rate of 10,000 devices per
day. In October 2017, CERT had issued alert about Reaper which is highly evolved malware capable of
hacking devices like Wi-Fi routers and security cameras and also hiding its own presence in bot.
Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks
In DDoS attacks, malware first creates network of bots — called botnet and then uses botnet to ping
single server beyond its capacity at same time. As number of pings are far beyond server’s capacity,
server crashes and denies service to its consumers. Malwares like Saposhi, Reaper and Mirai are
primarily are used for DDoS attacks.
For example, if large botnet attacks server of fleet cab provider, its server will crash, and scores of
consumers will be unable to avail of its services, causing chaos in daily commuting as well as massive
losses to the company.
Recent DDoS attacks

In July 2016, small and medium internet service providers in Maharashtra had fallen prey to DDoS
attack, which had caused disruption in services of several Internet Service Providers (ISPs) in state.
Mirai malware using botnet of 5 lakh devices, had caused servers of Dyn, a leading domain name
service provider, to crash, affecting services of popular websites like Netflix, Twitter and Reddit.
Animal Welfare Board of India headquarters shifted from Chennai to Ballabhgarh
March 6, 2018
Government has shifted headquarters of Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) to Ballabhgarh in
Faridabad District of Haryana from Chennai, Tamil Nadu. It was shifted after consultation with
AWBI for better coordination between the Environment Ministry and AWBI for carrying out the
animal welfare activities.
The Rule 3 of the Animal Welfare Board (Administrative) Rules, 1962 mentions that the headquarter
of AWBI shall be at New Delhi or at such other place as central government, may, after consultation
with the Board direct.
Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI)
AWBI is a statutory advisory body established in 1962 under Section 4 of The Prevention of Cruelty
to Animals Act, 1960. It frames a range of rules on how animals ought to be humanely treated
everywhere. It has also frequently litigated to have stricter laws to ensure animals were not unduly
harassed or tortured.
Initially it was within jurisdiction of the Ministry of Food and Agriculture. Later in 1990, the subject
of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals was transferred to Environment Ministry.
The Board consists of 28 Members, who serve for a period of 3 years. Its headquaters is located at
Chennai, Tamil Nadu. Several government organisations, along with animal rights activists and
parliamentarians, are represented on the Board.
Functions of AWBI
It recognises Animal Welfare Organisations by granting them recognition if they meet its guidelines.
It also appoints key people to the positions of (Hon) Animal Welfare Officers, who serve as the key
point of contact between the people, the government and law enforcement agencies.
It suggests changes to laws and rules about animal welfare issues. It also offers guidance to
organisations and officials such as police to help them interpret and apply the laws. It issues
publications to raise awareness of various animal welfare issues. Its education team gives talks on
animal welfare subjects, and trains members of the community to be Certified Animal Welfare
Educators
It provides financial assistance to recognised AWOs, who submit applications to the Board.
Categories of grants include Regular Grant, Cattle Rescue Grant, Provision of Shelter House for
Animals, Animal Birth Control (ABC) Programme, Ambulance for animals in distress and Natural
Calamity grant.
March 7, 2018
Government launches #YesIBleed menstrual hygiene campaign
March 7, 2018
The Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has launched #YesIBleed menstrual hygiene
campaign on the occasion of International Women’s Day 2018. It is second edition of such campaign
that aims to create holistic approach to issue of menstruation, which is experience that transcends
culture, class, and caste.
Key Facts
The “#Yes I Bleed” campaign has been initiated formally across all multi-media platforms, including
Facebook and YouTube to spread awareness about issue. The National Commission of Women (NCW)
has extended full support to Shewings in endevour to spread awareness about the core issue of every
woman’s concern.
Background
The United Nations has recognised menstrual hygiene as global public health and human rights
issue. Yet across the globe, period poverty as some call it, is reality for millions of women and girls.
Menstruation is still taboo subject in India and even women are uncomfortable discussing in public.
There is nothing to be ashamed of. It is a natural physiological process
According to the results of the study, “Sanitary Protection: Every Woman’s Health Right”, only 12% of

Indian women have access to sanitary napkins and remaining 88% have no access as they find
sanitary pads unaffordable. The use unsanitised cloth, tree leaves, husk sand and even ash. These can
cause severe reproductive health problems and infections and can also lead to cervical cancer.
In India’s rural areas, women lack of resources, education and awareness about personal hygiene and
hygiene products and don’t even have any conversation around menstruation. It is necessary for
people to understand that menstrual hygiene is of utmost importance and there should be openness
about puberty and menstrual hygiene in the country.
Commerce Ministry to devise strategy on product standards
March 7, 2018
The Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has released draft Indian National Strategy for
Standardisation for standardisation of products and services to provide level playing field to
domestic industry and adopt best global practices. The strategy will play an active role and take
leadership positions in apex international forums in related areas besides creating response
mechanisms to global developments on standards, technical regulations and conformity assessment
practices that impact market access of Indian goods and services.
Key objectives of draft strategy
Positioning standards as key driver of all economic activities relating to goods and services
Create integrated infrastructure, roadmaps and institutions for their effective management
Enhance competitiveness of Indian goods and services in domestic and international markets.
Develop comprehensive ecosystem for standards development taking into account diversity of interests and
expertise available.
Provide level playing field to domestic industry and adopt best practices in standardisation, conformity assessment
and technical regulations.
Need for strategy
Rapid growth of Indian economy, its size and emerging relevance in global trade has made it
essential to establish robust quality infrastructure in country with harmonised, dynamic and mature
standards ecosystem for goods. The standardisation will fuel economic growth and enhance ‘Made in
India’ label as standards are widely recognised as catalysts for technical development, industrial
growth, well-being of society and more recently for convergence of new and emerging technologies.
The strategy for standardisation of products considers current state of development across sectors,
existing quality infrastructure and policy directions in relation to domestic economic developments
and trade in goods and services.
Street Lighting National Programme: 49 lakh LED street lights installed
March 7, 2018
Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL) has installed 49 lakh LED street lights in 28 states/UTs
under the Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP). This information was given by Minister of
State (IC) Power R K Singh in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha.
Street Lighting National Programme (SLNP)
The Programme was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January 2015. It aims to replace
1.34 crore conventional street lights with energy efficient LED lights by March, 2019. It is being
implemented by EESL. It is world’s Largest Street Light Replacement Programme. Rajasthan was the
first state to adopt this scheme.
Objectives
Reduce energy consumption in lighting which helps DISCOMs to manage peak demand
Mitigate climate change by implementing energy efficient LED based street lighting
Provide sustainable service model that obviates need for upfront capital investment as well as additional revenue
expenditure to pay for procurement of LED lights.
Enhance municipal services at no upfront capital cost of municipalities
Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL)
EESL was set up under Union Ministry of Power to facilitate implementation of energy efficiency
projects. It is a joint venture of NTPC Limited, Power Finance Corporation (PFC), Rural Electrification
Corporation (REC) and POWERGRID. It leads market-related actions of National Mission for
Enhanced Energy Efficiency (NMEEE). It also acts as the resource centre for capacity building of

State DISCOMs.
India for the first time starts importing LNG from US
March 7, 2018
India for first time has started process of importing Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) from United States.
The development comes on the heels of India’s first import of crude oil from the US in October 2017.
State-owned GAIL will discharge its
The first US-sourced LNG shipment was imported by state-owned GAIL and was shipped it on board
of its chartered LNG ship ‘Meridian Spirit’ from Cheniere Energy’s Sabine Pass LNG export facility in
Louisiana. It will be discharged at GAIL’s Dabhol terminal, Maharashtra.
Key Facts
GAIL had signed 20-year Sale Purchase Agreement (SPA) with US’ natural gas exporter Cheniere
Energy in December 2011. Under it, GAIL will purchase around 3.5 Million Tonne of LNG per year
from Sabine Pass. Cheniere Energy is currently operating and constructing its Sabine Pass LNG
facility in Louisiana and is constructing second liquefaction facility near Corpus Christi, Texas.
This shipment will help GAIL to diversify its portfolio both on price indexation and geographical
locations. Moreover, this long-term SPA will also strengthening relationship between GAIL and
Cheniere and reinforcing India-US trade ties.
Background
India primarily imports LNG from Qatar and Australia under long-term contracts. In recent times, it
has been trying to diversify its natural gas sources. Moreover, after former US President Barack
Obama lifted US’s 40 year-old oil export ban, Indian oil and gas companies in response bought
shipments of US crude to check for cost competitiveness and its compatibility with Indian refinery
configuration. India is also trying to increase its use of natural gas in the energy mix from current 6%
to 15% within five years inorder reduce dependence on oil and to secure energy supplies and reduce
emissions by using more natural gas.
40 Participants attend 46th Know India Programme
March 7, 2018
40 participants of Indian Origin from 9 countries attended 46th edition of Know India Programme
(KIP). Madhya Pradesh was partner state of this edition. As part of the initiative participants visited
Madhya Pradesh, Parliament House, President’s House and attended orientation programme at the
Foreign Service Institute
Know India Programmes (KIP)
KIP is initiative (scheme) of Ministry of External Affairs for Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) between
the age group of 18 to 30 years. The scheme was launched in 2004 and has so far had 40 editions in
which some 1,293 PIO youths have participated.
Objective
Engage and make students and young professionals of Indian Diaspora (18 to 30years) feel sense of connect with
their motherland
Motivated and inspire PIOs by transformational changes taking place in India and give them an exposure to
various aspects of contemporary India’s forms of art, heritage and culture.
KIP is three-week orientation programme aimed at promoting awareness on different facets of life in
India as well as the progress made by country in fields such as economic and education. It offers
platform for young PIOs to visit India share their views, experiences and expectations and forge
closer bonds with India.
The participants are selected on basis of nominations received and recommendations of heads of
Indian Missions and posts. The participants are provided all the hospitality in India. In 2016, KIP
scheme was revamped to extend number of days from 21 to 25 days including 10-day visit to one or
two states.
HRD Ministry allocates Rs.1000 crore for research in S&T under IMPRINT-II
March 7, 2018
The Ministry of Human Resource Development has sanctioned Rs. 1000 crore for phase II of
Impacting Research Innovation and Technology (IMPRINT) India programme to boost research and
innovation in the country.
Under the IMPRINT-II, a fund is being created by Department of Science and Technology (DST) and

HRD Ministry together, in which participation will come from industry and other interested
Ministries. The project will be run as a separate vertical in coordination with DST.
Impacting Research Innovation and Technology (IMPRINT) India
IMPRINT India Programme is joint initiative of Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs) and Indian
Institute of Science (IISc). It seeks to develop road map for research to solve major engineering and
technology challenges in 10 technology domains relevant for country.
These domains include health care, information and communication technology, energy, sustainable
habitat, nano‐technology hardware, water resources and river systems, advanced materials,
manufacturing, security and defence, and environment and climate. These domains are distributed
among IITs Kharagpur, Kanpur, Bomaby, Rookree, Madras and IISC, Bengaluru.
Objectives of IMPRINT
Identify areas of immediate relevance that requires innovation in the society.
Ensure support and higher funding for research for identified areas.
Measure outcomes of innovation and research efforts and its impact on people’s standard of living.
Significance
It will motivate technical institutions to conduct research in areas where the country is heavily
dependent on foreign technology. Under IMPRINT-I Programme, 142 projects at cost of Rs. 318.71
crore are already under implementation. These projects cover 10 crucial technology domains
mentioned above.
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development approves India’s membership
March 7, 2018
The shareholders of European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) have given their
nod to India’s candidature to international financial institution. With this, India will become the 69th
member of EBRD.
The move follows Indian Government’s application to seek membership of EBRD back in December
2017. It will set stage increase in joint investment with Indian companies in EBRD’s regions of
operation.
Key Facts
The EBRD’s Board of Governors, which represents all existing shareholders of the international
financial institution, had voted in favour of India’s membership application. With shareholders’
approval, the formal membership process will now get underway, which includes purchase of shares
by India at estimated cost of around 1 million euros.
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
EBRD is a multilateral developmental investment bank. It was established in 1991 after fall of the
Berlin wall to promote private and entrepreneurial initiative in emerging Europe. It is headquartered
in London, United Kingdom. It was initially focused to help former Communist states build their
economies after Cold War and then expanded to support development in more than 30 countries
from central Europe to central Asia.
It invests in 38 emerging economies across three continents with predefined set of criteria that aim
to make its countries more competitive, better governed, greener, more inclusive, more resilient and
more integrated. It works only in countries that are committed to democratic principles, using
investment as tool to build market economies.
Sukhad Yatra App and Toll-free Emergency number for Highway users launched
March 7, 2018
Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) has launched Sukhad Yatra mobile application and
1033 Toll-free Emergency number for highway users. It also launched scheme for District Driving
Training Centres and will provide grant of financial assistance for Road Safety Advocacy and awards
for outstanding work in Road Safety.
Sukhad Yatra mobile application
It has been prepared by National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to empower Highway user. Its
key feature includes provision for user to enter road quality-related information and to report any
accident or pothole on highway.
It also provides users with real-time data related to waiting time expected at plazas and various
facilities like points of interest, highway nest and nest mini, etc. available across highway. It can also

be used by users to purchase FASTag tag and further facilitate highway user experience.
Toll-free number 1033
It will enable users to report an emergency condition and highway-related feedback. Its service has
been integrated with various ambulance, tow away services along highway to ensure rapid response
time in case emergency. The service is supported by a multi-lingual support and user location
tracking features to provide the user with accurate and responsive complaint resolution.
Scheme for District Driving Training Centres
Under it, at least one model driving training centre will be set up in each district of States/UTs.
MoRTH will provide financial assistance of up to Rs. 1 crore for these centres. Its objective is to create
employment and meeting requirement of HMV and LMV drivers in country.
It also aims at inculcating habit of road safety, like attitudinal and behavioral changes among drivers.
These centres will conduct training course for drivers carrying dangerous and hazardous goods. The
agencies that will open centre will provide infrastructure facilities like land, class rooms, simulator,
etc.
Scheme for grant of financial assistance
The financial assistance will be provided for administering Road Safety Advocacy and awards for
outstanding done in field of Road Safety. Under it, assistance up to Rs. 5 lakh will be provided to
NGO, Cooperative Societies, Trust and other agencies for administering road safety programme.
Three awards of Rs. 5 lakhs, Rs. 2 lakh and Rs. 1 lakh will be given in each State/UT to individuals of
agencies engaged in road safety advocacy and allied activities.
March 8, 2018
Cabinet approves Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement between India and France
March 8, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved signing of Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement between
India and France. Decision in this regard was taken at the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by Prime
Minister Narendra Modi. The agreement will be signed during forthcoming state visit of French
President to India.
Key Facts
The agreement represents major milestone in enhancing people-to-people (P2P) contacts between
both countries. It will foster mobility of students, academics, skilled professionals and researchers
and strengthen cooperation on issues related to irregular migration and human trafficking between
countries.
The agreement is also testimony to India’s rapidly expanding multi-faceted relationship with France
and symbolizes increasing trust and confidence between two sides. It will be initially valid for period
of 7 years and incorporates provision for automatic renewal and monitoring mechanism through
Joint Working Group (JWG).
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Hellenic on Renewable Energy Cooperation
March 8, 2018
The Union Cabinet has apprised Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Cooperation in field of
Renewable Energy between India and Hellenic.
The MoU was signed by Union External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and H.E. Nikos Kotzias,
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Hellenic Republic during latter’s visit to New Delhi in November, 2017.
Key Facts
Under this agreement, both countries aim to establish basis for cooperative institutional relationship
to encourage and promote technical bilateral cooperation on new and renewable issues on basis of
mutual benefit equality and reciprocity. The MoU envisages establishing Joint Working Group (JWG)
to review, monitor and discuss matters relation to areas of cooperation. It also aims for exchange of
expertise and networking of information.
Balkrishna Doshi wins Pritzker Prize
March 8, 2018
Legendary Indian architect Balkrishna Doshi (90), a pioneer of low-cost housing design has won the
prestigious Pritzker Prize, considered architecture field’s Nobel. He is 45th Pritzker laureate and first
from India to receive it.
He is one of the last living architects to have apprenticed with Franco-Swiss trailblazer Le Corbusier

distinguished his work by committing to sustainable architecture and inexpensive housing.

Balkrishna Doshi
Born on 26 August 1927 in Pune, Maharashtra. He is considered as one of important figure of South
Asian architecture and noted for his contributions to evolution of architectural discourse in India. He
is alumnus of prestigious JJ School of Architecture in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
He had worked with legendary Le Corbusier in Paris in 1950 before returning to India to supervise
architect’s projects in Chandigarh and Ahmedabad. He established his studio Vastu-Shilpa
(environmental design) in 1955 and worked with Louis Kahn and Anant Raje in designing campus of
IIM Ahmedabad.
He also designed campuses of IIM Bangalore and Lucknow, National Institute of Fashion Technology
(NIFT), Tagore Memorial Hall, Institute of Indology in Ahmedabad, among other fine campuses and
buildings across India, besides many low-cost housing projects.
He is also known as an institution builder. He is first founder Director of School of Architecture,
Ahmedabad, first founder Director of School of Planning, first founder Dean of Centre for
Environmental Planning and Technology (also designed its building), founder member of Visual Arts
Centre, Ahmedabad and first founder Director of Kanoria Centre for Arts, Ahmedabad.
He was awarded Padma Shri in 1976 and 6th Aga Khan Award for Architecture for Aranya
Community Housing, 1993-1995.
Pritzker prize
The international Pritzker prize was established by Chicago’s Pritzker family in 1979. It is considered
to be one of the world’s premier architecture prizes, and is often referred to as the Nobel Prize of
architecture. It is awarded annually and bestows laureates with $100,000 along with bronze
medallion. Previous winners include world-renowned architects like Zaha Hadid, Frank Gehry, IM
Pei, and Shigeru Ban.
US move to raise import duty on steel may hit India’s steel market: ISA
March 8, 2018
According to Indian Steel Association (ISA), proposal by Trump administration to levy steep tariff on
steel imports may hit India’s domestic steel market. Recently, US had proposed to impose tariffs of
25% on steel imports and 10% on imported aluminium to protect domestic steel industry from cheap
imports. It had clubbed India as steel non-mature country with other steel surplus nations.
Key Facts
The proposal, if implemented, will result in major shifts in existing global trade flows of steel and
steel products. It will encourage steel-surplus nations to divert their exports to vibrant consumption
centres (countries) like India and distort their domestic markets considerably. It will dent growth
prospects of developing nation like India, whose production and consumption of steel is inward
looking.
Though India is third largest producer of steel and produces 12% of world’s non-Chinese production
of steel, it has only 2.7% share in US imports. There are total of 16 trade remedies in place in US
against Indian steel imports. This included 10 anti-dumping and 6 countervailing duties. All these
had made it nearly impossible to export Indian Steel to US.
Cabinet approves two relief measures for stressed telecom sector
March 8, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved two key measures in telecom sector to facilitate investments,
consolidation in the sector and enhancing ease of doing business. These include restructuring
Deferred payment liabilities of spectrum auction of telecom service providers (TSPs).
Revising the limit of the cap for spectrum holding for TSPs.
Key Facts
Restructuring of Deferred Payment Liabilities of TSPs for spectrum
It extends time period for payment of spectrum bought in auction to 16 years from the present 10
years. It will give one-time opportunity for TSPs to opt for higher number of instalment (maximum
16 instalment) apart from currently permitted 10 instalments
The increased instalment is based upon principle that Net Present Value (NPV) of Payment Due is
protected as per respective notice inviting application for auction of spectrum from 2012. The total
amount received will be higher by Rs. 74,446 crore till 2034-35.

Revision of limits of cap for spectrum holding

Based upon the recommendations of TRAI and Telecom Commission, the Union Cabinet also
approved revision of limits of cap for spectrum holding. They are
Overall spectrum cap is revised from current limit of 25% to 35%.
Current intra-band cap is removed. Instead, there is cap of 50% on combined spectrum holding in sub-1 GHz
bands (700 MHz, 800 MHz and 900 MHz bands).
There will be no cap for individual or combined spectrum holding in above 1 GHz band.
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) had recommended revision in existing limits of cap for
spectrum holding taking into consideration technological advancement, efficient use of spectrum,
measures to facilitate consolidation etc. The revised spectrum caps limits may be revisited in future
after Final Acts of World Radiocommunication Conference (WRC) 2019.
Comment
Restructuring of deferred payment liability will increase cash flow for telecom service providers in
immediate timeframe and provide them some relief. Revising spectrum limit cap holding will
facilitate consolidation of telecom licensees, thus aid mergers and acquisitions in the sector and may
encourage TSPs participation in future spectrum auction.
CCEA approves Rs 1,151 crore Scheme for in-situ management of crop residue to fight air pollution
March 8, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved Rs. 1,151 crore Central Sector
Scheme for in-situ management of crop residue in Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and NCT of
Delhi.
It will promote agricultural mechanization for next two years (2018-20) to provide cost-effective and
eco-friendly solution to farmers to deal with problem of stubble burning that result in raising air
pollution levels in Delhi and neighbouring states every winter.
Features of Scheme
Under this scheme, the proceeds from central fund will be used to establish Farm Machinery Banks
(FMBs) for Custom Hiring of in-situ crop residue management machinery. Government will provide
80% financial assistance of project cost to cooperative societies of farmers, FPOs, SHGs, registered
farmers societies or farmers groups, private entrepreneurs and group of women farmers. It will also
provide 50% financial assistance to farmers for procurement of agriculture machinery and
equipment for in-situ crop residue management.
Beneficiaries will be identified and selected for establishment of Farm Machinery Bank for Custom
Hiring and procurement of machines on individual ownership basis by state nodal
department/DLEC. They may tie up with Banks for credit requirements of beneficiaries.
The central fund will also be used to create awareness among farmers about in-situ management of
crop residue. The activities will involve mass awareness campaigns through documents, short and
long films, radio and TV programmes, demonstration camps at various levels and capacity building
programme etc. It will also include advertisement in print media, star campaigning, award for village
or gram Panchayat for achieving Zero Straw Burning etc.
Background
Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Budget 2018-19 had announced special scheme with 100%
Central share to support efforts of Punjab, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh and NCT of Delhi to address
air pollution and to subsidize machinery required for in-situ management of crop residue.
Significance
The scheme is expected to go long way in tackling air pollution issue in NCT of Delhi, as stubble
burning which has been identified as one of key problem areas, especially during post-harvest season
of October-November when prevailing meteorological condition aggravates the situation further.
India-China trade hits record $84.4 billion in 2017
March 8, 2018
According to data of Chinese General Administration of Customs, India-China bilateral trade has
reached $84.44 billion last year, a historic high with 18.63% year-on-year growth rate.
This is regarded as historic landmark in bilateral relations of both countries, as volume of bilateral
trade for first time has touched $80 billion, well above the $71.18 billion registered in 2016.

Key Facts
India has emerged as the seventh largest export destination for Chinese products, and 24th largest
exporter to China.
India’s imports and exports: It has increased by 39.11% year-on-year to $16.34 billion in 2017. India’s
imports from China have increased by 14.59% to $68.10 billion.
Significantly, diamonds along with copper, iron ore, organic chemicals and cotton yarn contributed
to increase Indian exports to China. China’s exports on other hand were dominated by electrical
machinery and equipment,
India’s trade deficit: It continues to remain high at $51.75 billion, registering a growth of 8.55% year-
on-year in 2017. To arrest it, India is pressing China to open its IT and Pharmaceutical sectors for
Indian firms, fertilizers, organic chemicals and pharmaceutical antibiotics.
Comment
The bilateral trade has touched historic high despite bilateral tensions over number of bilateral
issues including China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), China blocking India’s efforts to bring
about UN ban on Jaish-e-Mohammad leader Masood Azhar and blocking India’s entry into Nuclear
Suppliers Group (NSG) as well as military standoff at Doklam plateau near Sikkim and Bhutan,
lasting 73 days.
For several years, bilateral trade between India and China had stagnated around $70 billion, despite
they had set target of $100 billion in 2015. Though it is still about $20 billion short, it is expect trade
and Chinese investments in India to pick up further as both governments are trying to scale down
tensions and step-up normalisation process.
CCI imposes Rs. 54 crore fine on 3 airlines for unfair business practices
March 8, 2018
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has imposed fine of more than Rs. 54 crore on Jet
Airways, InterGlobe Aviation and SpiceJet for unfair business practices with respect to fixing fuel
surcharge on cargo transport.
The CCI order comes on complaint filed by Express Industry Council of India (EICI) against airlines
alleging cartelisation. It has directed three airlines to cease and desist from anti-competitive
practices. It is second order on same complaint in nearly three years.
Key Facts
The penalties were imposed on airlines for concerted action in fixing and revising fuel surcharge
(FSC), a component of freight charges. These airlines had acted in concerted manner in fixing and
revising FSC rates in violation of competition norms that prohibit anti-competitive agreements,
including cartels.
The penalties were imposed at the rate of 3% of three airlines average relevant turnover of last 3
financial years and taking into consideration financial position of airlines at relevant time and noting
that FSC constitutes about 20-30% of cargo revenue.
Competition Commission of India (CCI)
CCI is quasi-judicial statutory body established under The Competition Act, 2002. It was established
in October 2003 and became fully functional in May 2009. It consists of Chairperson and 6 Members
appointed by Central Government.
CCI aims to eliminate practices that adversely affect competition in different industries and protect
interests of consumers and ensure freedom of trade. Its mandate is to eliminate practices having
adverse effect on competition, promote and sustain competition, protect interests of consumers and
ensure freedom of trade in markets of India.
It is also required to give opinion on competition issues on reference received from statutory
authority established under any law and undertakes competition advocacy, create public awareness
and impart training on competition issues.
March 9, 2018
Nari Shakti Puraskar 2017
March 9, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind presented Nari Shakti Puraskars 2017 to 30 eminent individuals and 9
distinguished institutions at special ceremony held in Rashtrapati Bhavan on occasion of

International Women’s Day.

They were felicitated in recognition of their efforts in rendering distinguished services for cause of
women, especially vulnerable and marginalized women.
Reciepents are
Nari Shakti awards

These awards aim to acknowledge achievement of women by bestowing awards on eminent women
and institutions in recognition of their service towards the cause of women empowerment. It
established in 1991 and since then it is conferred annually by President on the occasion of
International Women’s Day on March 8 every year. It carries cash award of Rs. 1 lakh and certificate
for individuals and institutions. The Ministry of Women and Child Development announces these
national level awards for eminent women, organisations and institutions.
I – Metros: Government launches association of all Indian Metro Rail companies
March 9, 2018
The Union Housing Ministry has launched I-Metros, an association of all Indian Metro Rail
companies for mutual sharing of ideas & experiences for nurturing excellence their performance. It
was launched by P K Sinha, Cabinet Secretary at Conference on “Indian Metros: Collaborating for
Excellence” held at Metro Bhawan in New Delhi.
Key Facts
I – Metros platform will be forum for exchange of ideas, sharing of experience and pooling of
knowledge, best practices, innovations etc. among Indian Metro Rail companies to nurture excellence
in performance. The conference on “Indian Metros: Collaborating for Excellence” was attended by
representatives of Metro systems from all over world to attend the management meeting of the
Community of Metros (CoMET). On this occasion, “The Operator’s Story”- a publication by World
Bank and Railway and Transport Strategy Centre (RTSC), Imperial College London on findings of the
research on “What makes Metros successful” was also released.
Swachh Shakti 2018 celebrated in Lucknow under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
March 9, 2018

The Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation in association with Uttar Pradesh Government had
organized Swachh Shakti 2018, a Women’s Convention on occasion of International Women’s Day in
Lucknow. This year, Uttar Pradesh had hosted Swachh Shakti 2018, being largest state in country (in
terms of population) with massive rural populace.
Key Facts
In Swachh Shakti 2018, 8000 women sarpanches, 3000 women Swachhagrahis and women
champions from across country were recognised for their outstanding contribution towards making
Swachh Bharat. The event also included special exhibition, launch of film celebrating Swachh Shakti
and flagging off of 30 Swachhata Raths that will travel across State, spreading the message of
sanitation at the grassroots.
Background
The Swachh Shakti initiative was launched by Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation in 2017 to
recognise and felicitate women sarpanches, women Swachhagrahis and women champions from
across country for their outstanding contribution towards making Swachh Bharat. In 2017 Swachh
Shakti, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had addressed and honoured over 6000 women sarpanches
from across country in Gujarat on occasion of International Women’s Day.
Swachh Bharat Mission
SBM was launched in October 2014 with an aim to achieve universal sanitation coverage and to put
focus on sanitation. It aims to achieve Swachh Bharat or make India clean and Open Defecation Free
(ODF) by 2019, as fitting tribute to the 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
The SBM consists of two sub-missions Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), implemented in rural areas,
and Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), implemented in urban areas. It seeks to generate awareness to
motivate communities to adopt sustainable sanitation practices, and encourage the use of
appropriate technologies for sanitation.
So far, 314 districts and 3.23 lakh villages and 9 States and 2 UTs have been declared ODF. The
mission has led to doubling of sanitation coverage from 38.70% to 78.98% since its launch.
Government launches Udyam Sakhi Portal for Women Entrepreneurs
March 9, 2018
The Ministry of Micro,Small & Medium Enterprises launched Udyam Sakhi Portal
(www.udyamsakhi.org) for women entrepreneurs on the occasion of International Women’s Day. It
was unveiled by Minister of State (Independent Charge) of MSME, Giriraj Singh, in a program held at
Ambedkar International Centre, New Delhi.
Udyam Sakhi Portal
The portal is network to nurture entrepreneurship and create business models for low cost products
and services in order to empower women and make them self-sufficient and self-reliant. It will
provide assistance to women entrepreneurs through its platform for entrepreneurship learning
tools, training programs for fund raising, incubation facility, provide mentors, one-on-one investor
meet, provide market survey facility and technical assistance. It will cater needs of around 8 million
women from across country who have started and are running their own businesses and playing
vital role in the growth of Indian economy.
Government launches National Nutrition Mission
March 9, 2018
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched National Nutrition Mission (NMM) at event held at
Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan on the occasion of International Women’s Day. NNM is comprehensive
approach towards raising nutrition level in country on a war footing.
National Nutrition Mission (NMM)
NNM is an apex body under Ministry of Women and Child Development to monitor, supervise, fix
targets and guide nutrition related interventions across Ministries. It will monitor various schemes
contributing towards addressing malnutrition.
It comprises mapping of various schemes contributing towards addressing malnutrition,
incentivizing states/UTs for meeting targets, incentivizing Anganwadi Workers (AWWs) for using IT
based tools, eliminating registers used by AWWs and introducing measurement of height of children
at Anganwadi Centres (AWCs).
It will also comprise social audits, setting-up Nutrition Resource Centres and involving masses

through Jan Andolan for their participation on nutrition through various activities, among others.
The mission has been set up with a three year budget of Rs. 9046.17 crore commencing from 2017-18.
The mission targets to reduce stunting, under-nutrition, anaemia among young children, women and
adolescent girls and reduce low birth weight by at least 2% per annum. Though target to reduce
stunting is at least 2% annum, the mission will strive to achieve reduction in stunting from 38.4%
(NFHS-4) to 25% by 2022.
More than 10 crore people are expected to be benefitted by programme. It will cover all states and
districts in phased manner. 315 districts will be covered in 2017-18 and 235 districts in 2018-19,
remaining districts will be covered in 2019-20.
Government expands Beti Bachao Beti Padha to pan India
March 9, 2018
The Union Government has expanded Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) programme from 161 districts
to all 640 districts of the country. The initial focus of BBBP was limited to districts which were either
below national average or were worse in their own states in terms of absolute values of Chid Sex
Ratio (CSR).
Background
As per data available in Health Management Information System (HMIS), there has been
improvement in sex ratio at birth (SRB). The SRB which was 918 in 2014-15 has improved to 926 in
2016-17 as per HMIS data. The successful implementation of BBBP programme in states and districts
has led government to decide to go Pan-India and expand the programme to all districts. However,
looking at magnitude and criticality of problem and its spread across country, the expansion will
take care that no district is left out of BBBP ambit.
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP)
The scheme was launched by Prime Minister in January 2015 at Panipat, Haryana as comprehensive
programme to address declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR) and related issues of empowerment of women
over life-cycle continuum.
The specific objectives of scheme are preventing gender biased sex selective elimination, ensuring
survival and protection of the girl child and ensuring education and participation of the girl child. Its focus
is on awareness and advocacy campaign, multi-sectoral action enabling girls’ education and effective
enforcement of Pre-Conception & Pre Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PC&PNDT) Act.
The scheme is being implemented as a tri-ministerial, convergent effort of Union Ministries of
Women and Child Development (WCD), Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) and Human Resource
Development (HRD). The Union Ministry of Women and Child Development (WCD) is nodal ministry
for programme at central level.
SUVIDHA: Government launches 100% Oxo-biodegradable Sanitary Napkin under Janaushadhi
Pariyojana
March 9, 2018
The Union Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers has launched ‘Suvidha’, a 100% Oxo-biodegradable
Sanitary Napkin, under Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP). It was launched
by Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers and Parliamentary Affairs Ananthkumar on the
occasion of International Woman’s day.
Key Facts
The affordable Suvidha sanitary napkins will be available for Rs. 2.50 per pad at over 3200
Janaushadhi Kendras across India. It was launched under government’s vision of providing
Affordable and Quality Healthcare for All. It will ensure ‘Swachhta, Swasthya and Suvidha’ for
underprivileged women. It will ensure affordability, hygiene as well as ease of use and disposal of
sanitary napkins.
SUVIDHA napkin has special additive added in it, which makes it biodegradable when it reacts with
oxygen after it is used and discarded. It will go long way in making basic hygiene requirement aid for
women affordable especially for the underprivileged sections. It will be physically available at all
Janaushadhi Kendras in country by World Menstrual Hygiene Day (May 28, 2018).
Background
According to National Family Health Survey (NHFS) 2015-16, about 58% of women aged between 15
to 24 years use locally prepared napkins, sanitary napkins and tampons. Further, only 48% women in

rural areas have access to clean sanitary napkins and about 78% women in urban areas use hygienic
methods of protection during menstrual period. The use unhygienic aids during menstrual period
due to non-affordability of some of branded of sanitary napkins causes fungal infections, Urinary
Tract Infection, Reproductive Tract Infection, Cervical cancer and also make women vulnerable to
infertility. Moreover, the disposal of non-biodegradable sanitary napkins creates a huge
environmental problem.
Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP)
The scheme was launched by Department of Pharmaceuticalsto provide quality medicines at
affordable prices to masses through special kendra’s known as PMBJP. These special kendras provide
generic drugs, which are available at lesser prices but are equivalent in quality and efficacy as
expensive branded drugs.
Objectives
Making quality medicines available at affordable prices for all, particularly the poor and disadvantaged, through
exclusive outlets Jan Aushadhi Medical Store.
Reduce out of pocket expenses in healthcare by bringing down healthcare budget of every citizen through
providing Quality generic Medicines at Affordable Prices.
Mission
Create awareness among public regarding generic medicines.
Create demand for generic medicines through medical practioners.
Provide all commonly used generic medicines covering all therapeutic groups.
Provide all related health care products too under the scheme.
Create awareness through education and awareness program that high price need not be synonymous with high
quality.
WHO launches plan for cheaper TB drugs
March 9, 2018
World Health Organization (WHO) has invited pharmaceutical companies around the world to
submit proposals to manufacture affordable versions of newer medicines for treatment of drug
resistant tuberculosis (DR-TB). It has now requested drug makers to submit Expression of Interest
(EoI) for Bedaquiline and Delaminid, two new-generation drugs, recommended for DR-TB. The aim of
this proposal is to replicate success of addressing HIV epidemic. Under WHO norms, drugs
submitted upon such requests and complying with its standards will be included in list for
procurement by UN and other organisations.
Background
India has nearly 1.3 lakh DR-TB patients, most in the world. Currently Health Ministry gets only
10,000 doses of Bedaquiline and 400 doses of Delaminid. These medicines are obtained as donations
from Janssen (US) and Otsuka Pharmaceuticals (Japan), their respective manufacturers.
Significance
EoI considered by WHO for two drugs will be key compounds to address challenges of DR-TB. It will
encourage generic competition to start finding ways to make these medicines available in countries
where they are not yet registered. It will also allow generics manufacturers interested in producing
these two drugs and currently facing technical challenges. The pre-qualification will ensure greater
numbers of manufacturers are supplying quality medicines, which, in turn, means a more
competitive market and more affordable prices.
NITI Aayog launches Women Entrepreneurship Platform
March 9, 2018
The National Institution for Transforming India (NITI) Aayog has launched Women
Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP) on the occasion of International Women’s day (March 8, 2018).
WEP’s theme song ‘ Naari Shakti’ composed and sung by renowned singer Kailash Kher was also
released.
Women Entrepreneurship Platform (WEP)
Objective
Build vibrant ecosystem for women across country to help realise their entrepreneurial aspirations, scale-up
innovative initiatives and chalk-out sustainable, long-term strategies for their businesses.

Power vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem through an enabling network of industry collaborations, partnerships,
mentors and peer-to-peer connect.
Address bottlenecks faced by both aspiring and established women entrepreneurs by streamlining information
across government and private sector schemes and initiatives with informative, interactive website as a dedicated
resource and knowledge base.
Key Features
WEP aspires to substantially increase number of women entrepreneurs to create and empower
dynamic new India by opening up avenues of growth and opportunity for women entrepreneurs.
These aspirations of women entrepreneurs are manifested in three pillars on which WEP is built:
Ichha Shakti: Motivating aspiring entrepreneurs to start their enterprise.
Gyaan Shakti: Providing knowledge and ecosystem support to women entrepreneurs to help them foster
entrepreneurship.
Karma Shakti: Providing hands-on support to entrepreneurs in setting-up and scaling up businesses.
The WEP platform will operate within broader framework of industry collaborations and
partnerships, which cut across sectors in economy. It will provide unique services such as credit
evaluation of women-led startups by CRISIL and potential equity investments through an Rs. 10
crore fund established by DICE Districts
Partners of WEP
ShopClues.com will provide internship and dedicated mentorship and Mann Deshi Foundation to
provide digital and financial literacy to aspiring women entrepreneurs. Moreover, several other
leading corporates and industry bodies such as NASSCOM, CII, FICCI, SIDBI and Facebook will
provide business acceleration, mentorship and other start-up support for women entrepreneurs.
Karnataka Government approves state flag proposal
March 9, 2018
Karnataka Government has decided to accept state flag proposed and designed by 9-member
committee constituted by state Kannada and Culture department. It will be official flag in place of an
unofficial red and yellow flag that is currently used in the state to signify local pride.
Key Facts
The committee has recommended new tricolour having yellow (at top), white (in middle) and red (at
bottom) colorus, with state’s emblem Gandaberunda (a two-headed mythological bird) in centre. The
white colour in new flag symbolizes peace and captures Karnataka’s image the best, while other two
colours are synonymous with Kannada identity. Now state government will make formal application
to Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) under whose purview issue falls to amend Flag Code 2002
to included state flag. The amendment will add provisions of including Karnataka flag as one of the
symbols in the Flag Code.
Comment
If adopted with clearance from MHA, Karnataka will be the second state after Kashmir to have an
official state flag. Karnataka has had unofficial state flag since mid-1960s when pro-Kannada groups
were agitating against the screening of non-Kannada films in the state. The earlier red and yellow
unofficial flag was created by Kannada writer and activist Ma Ramamurthy for pro-Kannada political
party called Kannada Paksha. This unofficial flag is flown every year on November 1, Karnataka’s
foundation day, and is a common sight at public spaces in the state.
Karnataka already has official state song and there is feeling that there is nothing wrong in having
state flag.
March 10, 2018
First ever ‘crime-free zone’ along India, Bangladesh international border launched
March 10, 2018
The director generals of Border Security Force (BSF), India and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) have
declared 8.3 km stretch of Indo-Bangladesh border as first ‘crime-free zone’. The stretch covers
Gunarmath and Kalyani Border Out Posts (BOPs) in India and Puthkhali and Daulatpur BOPs in
Bangladesh across border.
Key Facts
Bangladesh and India share 4,156 km long international border. It is longest international border

shared by India with its neighbours. It passes through five states viz. Assam (262 km), Tripura (856
km), Mizoram (180 km), Meghalaya (443 km) and West Bengal (2,217 km).
The first ‘crime-free zone’ stretch is one of most vulnerable to crimes like cattle smuggling and
others. Both border guarding forces with help of civil administrations of two countries, NGOs and
local populance will help in ensuring that no crime takes place along stretch.
Both forces will work together to ensure that no crime or anti-social activity occurs along this
stretch. This is pilot project that will be reviewed after 5-6 months. It will be extended to other
trouble-prone areas to target more difficult areas along 913 km of Indo-Bangladesh border under
BSF’s South Bengal Frontier.
Rajasthan passes bill for death penalty for child rape of girls below 12
March 10, 2018
Rajasthan Assembly has passed Criminal Laws (Rajasthan Amendment) Bill, 2018 by voice vote to
amend Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860 to add provisions providing for death penalty for those
convicted of raping girls of 12 years and below.
The bill will become a law after it gets Presidential assent. With this, Rajasthan became second state
in the country after Madhya Pradesh approving death sentence for those convicted of such rapes.
Key facts
The Bill aims at protecting girl child by laying down deterrent punishment, including death sentence,
to offenders of child rape of girls below 12. It inserts sections 376-AA and 376-DD in IPC, 1860. These
sections provide, that whoever commits rape or gang-rape on a girl upto 12 years of age shall be
punishable with death or rigorous imprisonment. The capital punishment under it will be not less
than 14 years and 20 years respectively for sections and which may extend to imprisonment for life,
which means imprisonment for remainder of offenders’ whole life, and with fine.
Background
According to National Crime Record Bureau (NCRB) 2016 report, cases of crimes against children
have shown a steady rise in Rajasthan. The state has recorded 4,034 such cases in 2016, which is 3.8%
of crimes against children (98,344) registered across country. It stands fourth in crime against
women category. In 2015, the state had registered 3,689 cases of crime against children, increased by
345 in year under review. State police had registered 728 cases of child rape in 2015, which increased
to 858 in 2016.
Diu becomes first Union Territory to run 100% on solar power
March 10, 2018
Diu has become the first and only Union Territory in the country to be fully run on solar energy. The
UT generates total of 13 megawatts (MW) of electricity from solar power generating facilities daily.
Of this, 3 MW is generated by rooftop solar plants and 10 MW by its other solar power plants.
Key Facts
Diu’s peak-time demand for electricity goes up to 7 MW and now it daily generates about 10.5 MW of
electricity from solar energy, making it electricity surplus. Despite scarcity of land, solar power
plants have been installed over more than 50 acres. The solar power also has come as big relief for
local residents as their monthly bill charges have fallen by around 12%. It also has significantly
reduced electricity loss.
Background
Diu has an area of just 42 square kilometres and population of 56,000. For water and electricity, the
Union territory was solely dependent on Gujarat government. The electricity supplied from power
grid owned by Gujarat government was causing huge line losses. To overcome this limitation, UT’s
administration has decided to set up solar power plants.
IREDA & European Investment Bank ink Loan Agreement for Renewable Energy Financing in India
March 10, 2018
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA) and European Investment Bank (EIB) have
signed loan agreement for second line of credit (LoC) of Euro 150 million on non-sovereign basis for
renewable energy financing in India. The LoC has tenure of 15 years including grace period of 3 years.
It will be used for financing Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency projects in India. It will benefit
more than 1.1 million households especially from clean energy produced with these funds.

European Investment Bank (EIB)

EIB is long-term lending institution of European Union owned by its member states. It is also
engaged in multilateral financing and works closely with other EU institutions to implement EU
policy. More than 90% of its activity is in Europe but it is also big investor globally. EIB’s activities
focus on four priority areas including innovation and skills, access to finance for infrastructure,
smaller businesses and climate & environment.
Indian Renewable Energy Development Agency (IREDA)
IREDA is dedicated financing arm of Ministry of New and Renewable Energy for financing renewable
and energy efficiency projects. It has been spearheading growth of renewable energy in country for
over three decades. To meet financing requirement, it has been raising resources from various
bilateral and multilateral agencies, Masala bonds and domestic – taxable and tax-free bonds. It has
financed renewable and energy efficiency projects of financial value of over Rs. 34,534 crore till date.
Supreme Court allows passive euthanasia, living will
March 10, 2018
The Supreme Court (SC) allowed passive euthanasia and right to give advance medical directives or
‘Living Wills’, stating that human beings have the right to die with dignity as part of fundamental
right, but made sure to set out strict guidelines that will govern when it is permitted.
The ruling was given by five-judge Constitution Bench led by Chief Justice of India Dipak Misra.
Passive euthanasia is act of withdrawing or withholding medical support to dying patient who has no
hope for revival or cure.
SC Ruling
Fundamental right to life and dignity under Article 21 of Constitution includes right to die with
dignity. Dignity is lost if man is allowed or forced to undergo pain and suffering because of
unwarranted medical support.
It distinguished passive euthanasia from suicide and active euthanasia. It called passive euthanasia
as mere acceleration of inevitable conclusion. It concluded that Active euthanasia is unlawful. It held
that suicide involves overt acts which culminate in unnatural death.
Valid ‘Living Will’ facilitates passive euthanasia and failure to legally recognise advance medical
directive inconveniences right to smoothen dying process. In cases of terminally ill or permanently
vegetative state patients, where there is no hope for revival, priority should be given to Living Wills
and right of self-determination.
It also laid down principles for execution of advance directives and spelt out guidelines and
safeguards to give effect to passive euthanasia. The directive and guidelines shall remain in force till
Parliament brings a legislation in the field.
CP TPP: 11 countries sign revised TPP trade pact without US

March 10, 2018
11 Pacific Rim countries have formally entered into Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for

Trans-Pacific Partnership or CP TPP or TPP11 in Santiago, Chile. It is revised version of Trans-Pacific

Partnership (TPP) proposed by US, that was finalized after US withdrew from it.
Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership
TPP11 includes Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore
and Vietnam. The combined population of these countries exceeds 500 million people and together
their economies account for 13% of global gross domestic product (GDP). With US, it would have
represented 40%.
It will be world’s third largest trade bloc after European Union (EU) and North American Free Trade
Agreement (NAFTA). It will come into effect 60 days after six of the 11 member countries ratify the
agreement domestically. It eliminates some requirements of original TPP demanded by US, including
rules to ramp up intellectual property protection of pharmaceuticals.
Background
The original 12-member agreement known as Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) was thrown into limbo
in January 2017 when US President Trump withdrew from deal three days after his inauguration
citing reason of protecting US jobs and agreement will be blow for US’s manufacturing. The TTP
agreement was originally conceived as counterbalance to China’s increasing economic influence in
the region. But after US withdrawal, remaining 11 countries had decided to forge ahead regardless
and finalized the agreement in January 2018.
India, France sign strategic pact on use of each other’s military bases
March 10, 2018
India and France have inked strategic pact providing for use of each other’s military facilities
including opening naval bases to warships. It was signed during official state visit of French
President Emmanuel Macron to India. The agreement reflects growing depth between both countries
in defence ties and comes amid China’s growing military expansionism in Indo-Pacific region.
Key Facts
The agreement will facilitate reciprocal provision of logistic support, supplies and services between
armed forces of India and France during authorised port visits, joint exercises and joint training
among others. It will be crucial in order to maintain the safety of international sea lanes for
unimpeded commerce and communications in Indo-Pacific region. The deal is similar to logistical
support pact (LEMOA) with US on use of each other’s land, air and naval bases and is indicator of
strategic depth and maturity reached in India-France defence ties.

Key Takeaways from Joint Statement on Defence relations

Both countries have decided to create an annual defence dialogue at the ministerial level to explore
ways to further deepen defence and strategic ties. They also signed pact on exchange and reciprocal
protection of classified or protected information.
On ties in maritime security sphere, both countries will have unprecedented level of cooperation to
ensure peace and stability in Indian and Pacific Oceans. Space agencies of both countries will also
have joint monitoring mechanism for developments in maritime sphere, while their navies of will
share intelligence and call their respective military bases for any requirement.
Both sides also emphasised the importance of the joint military exercises and affirmed their
intention to enhance the level of the exercises. They acknowledged that Make-in-India initiative
offers valuable opportunity for Indian and French defence enterprises to enter into co-development
and co-production projects in defence sector, including through transfer of technologies.
Indian, French companies ink pacts worth 13 billion euros
March 10, 2018
Indian and French companies have exchanged 19 contracts and agreements worth over 13 billion
euros in sectors including new and renewable energy, smart grid, nuclear energy, aviation, cement,
telecom among others. The agreements were formalised at Indo-French Economic Partnership (IFEP)
signing ceremony held in New Delhi in the context of French President Emmanuel Macron’s official
state visit to India.
Key Facts
Aviation Sector: The biggest deals signed in terms of value were from civil aviation sector. Low-cost
carrier SpiceJet signed $12.5-billion agreement with French aviation major Safran Group to supply
155 CFM LEAP-1B engines for airline’s Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, along with spare engines to support
fleet.
Safran also announced its eighth facility in India at Hyderabad, Telangana with 250 employees, for
production of harnesses used in civil and military aerospace applications, for both local and foreign
programs.
Airports Authority of India (AAI) signed agreement with French engineering company Egis for
conducting study of three airports in the country — Lucknow, Pune and Trichy.
Electric Mobility Sector: Four French companies — EdF International Networks, Citelum, G2M and
Solstyce — signed an agreement to work together for developing charging infrastructure in India to
support electric mobility.
Renewable energy sector: Bharat Light & Power and EDF renewed their contract pertaining to data
acquisition to optimise wind and solar energy production. General collaboration agreement was also
signed between French Commission for Atomic and Alternative Energy (CEA) and Vikram Solar to
increase production capacity of high performance solar cells and modules.
Cement Sector: French cement maker Vicat announced investment of Rs 1,200 crore in Karnataka to
double its production capacity and investment of Rs. 510 crore in cement-grinding unit in Andhra
Pradesh.
India, France ink 14 agreements
March 10, 2018
India and France singed 14 key agreements in strategic areas of security, nuclear energy, protection
of classified information and also in field of education, environment, urban development and
railways.
These agreements were signed after extensive bilateral talks between Prime Minister Narendra Modi
and French President Emmanuel Macron in New Delhi. French President Macron was in India on
four-day official state visit. His visit was aimed at strengthening bilateral economic, political and
strategic dimension of engagement between India and France.
Signed Agreement are
MoU on cooperation in the field of Environment.
MoU on technical cooperation in the field of Railways.
India-France Migration and Mobility Partnership Agreement.
Agreement to facilitate Mutual Recognition of Academic Qualifications.

Letter of Intent for creation of permanent Indo-French Railways Forum.

Agreement on cooperation in the field of Sustainable Urban Development.
MoU for co-operation in projects in ISA member countries in areas of solar energy
Implementing Arrangement for pre-formulation studies of a Maritime Awareness Mission.
Agreement regarding provision of reciprocal logistics support between their Armed Forces.
Bilateral Arrangement on cooperation in matter of Hydrography and Maritime Cartography.
Agreement regarding exchange and reciprocal protection of classified or protected information
Credit Facility Agreement of Euros 100 million for funding of Smart City Projects through a Challenge Process
Industrial Way Forward Agreement between NPCL and EDF, France for construction of six nuclear reactors at
Jaitapur, Maharashtra.
Agreement on Prevention of Illicit Consumption and Reduction of Illicit Traffic in Narcotic Drugs, Psychotropic
Substances and Chemical Precursors and Related Offences.
India-France relations
India and France share close and friendly relation. The relationship is based on shared values and real
convergence on a whole range of regional and global issues. Both countries had announced a
Strategic Partnership’ in 1998 and since then, relationship has been further strengthened.
Both countries have enhanced and ongoing cooperation in defence, maritime, space, security, and
energy-related sectors. They are also increasingly working together on all issues of concern
including terrorism, climate change, sustainable growth and development, infrastructure, smart
urbanization, S&T cooperation, and youth exchanges.
France is a major supplier of military equipment to India. It was one of few nations that did not
condemn India’s nuclear tests in 1998. It was first country with which India entered into agreement
on Civil Nuclear Cooperation in 2008. France is one of largest suppliers of nuclear fuel to India. It also
supports India’s bid to become permanent member of UN Security Council (UNSC) as well as G-8.
The bilateral trade between India and France for period April 2016 to March 2017 had reached US$
10.95 billion. France is 9th largest foreign investor in India with cumulative investment of US $6.09
billion from 2000 to 2017. Close to 1,000 French companies are present in India. About 120 Indian
companies have invested in France and employ close to 7,000 people.
ISA-ADB, NDB, GCF, AfDB and AIIB sign joint declarations of financial Partnership
March 10, 2018
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) and African Development Bank (AfDb), Asian Infrastructure
Investment Bank (AIIB), Asian Development Bank (ADB), Green climate fund (GCF), and New
Development Bank (NDB) signed Joint financial partnership Declarations. The International Energy
Agency (IEA) also signed Joint partnership Declaration with ISA. The objective of these agreements is
to deepen their cooperation in support of renewable energy. ISA had earlier signed three
partnerships with World Bank, European Investment Bank (EIB) and European Bank for
Reconstruction and Development (EBRD).
International Solar Alliance (ISA)
The ISA was one of key takeaways at Paris Climate summit, 2015 (2015 UN Climate Change
Conference, COP 21 or CMP 11). It is aimed at tapping solar energy in the countries that lie partially
or fully between Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. ISA is first treaty-based intergovernmental
organisation (entered into force in December 2017) to be headquartered at Gurugram, India.
Its major objectives include global deployment of over 1,000GW of solar generation capacity and
mobilisation of investment of over US $1000 billion into solar energy by 2030. It also aims to bring
together countries with rich solar potential to aggregate global demand, thereby reducing prices
through bulk purchase, facilitating deployment of existing solar technologies at scale and promoting
collaborative solar R&D and capacity building.
March 11-12, 2018
Criminal Laws (Rajasthan Amendment) Bill, 2018 Passed in Rajasthan
March 11, 2018
The Rajasthan Legislative Assembly has passed The Criminal Laws (Rajasthan Amendment) Bill, 2018
providing for death penalty for convicts involved in rape of girls below 12 years of age.

Key Provisions
The Criminal Laws (Rajasthan Amendment) Bill, 2018 adds sections 376-AA and 376-DD to the Indian Penal
Code, 1860.
These amendments say that a person who is convicted of raping/gang-raping a girl up to twelve years of age, shall
be given a death sentence or rigorous imprisonment, which shall not be less than fourteen years and 20 years,
respectively.
The amendment bill also provides to award life sentence and life imprisonment to child rapists to ensure that the
convict doesn’t get out of the jail even after completing 14 years of sentence.
With this bill, Rajasthan has become second state after Madhya Pradesh to award death penalty and
lifetime imprisonment to child rapists. In 2017, Madhya Pradesh assembly had passed ‘The Penal
Law (Madhya Pradesh Amendment) Bill-2017’, which awarded death to similar convicts.
India B wins Deodhar Trophy 2018
March 12, 2018
India B won 45th edition of the Deodhar Trophy 2018 by defeating Karnataka in final match by 6
wickets at the Himachal Pradesh Cricket Association Stadium in Dharamsala.
Brief Scores: Karnataka 279-8 in 50 overs (Ravikumar Samarth 107, CM Gautam 76) lost to India B
281-4 in 48.2 overs (Abhimanyu Easwaran 69, Ruturaj Gaikwad 58, Shreyas Iyer 61, Manoj Tiwary 59
not out) by 6 wickets.
Captain of India B: Ankit Bawne
Captain of Karnataka: Karun Nair
Player of the match: Ravikumar Samarth (Karnataka)
Deodhar Trophy
The Deodhar Trophy is a List A cricket competition in Indian domestic cricket. It is named after Prof.
D. B. Deodhar (known as the Grand Old Man of Indian cricket). It is a 50-over knockout competition
played on an annual basis among five zonal teams – North Zone, South Zone, East Zone, West Zone
and Central Zone. It was realigned in 2015-16 season with winners of Vijay Hazare Trophy playing
two teams – India A and India B – selected by the BCCI. North Zone has won most titles i.e. for
record 13 times.
Australia wins 2018 Sultan Azlan Shah Cup
March 12, 2018
World champions Australia won 27th edition of the Sultan Azlan Shah cup 2018 for record 10th time.
In the final match held in Ipoh, Malaysia, Australia defeated defending champion England by narrow
2-1 goal margin. Earlier, in the classification match for third place, Argentina defeated host Malaysia
by 3-2 goals.
Azlan Shah Hockey Tournament
It is an annual international men’s field hockey tournament held in Malaysia. It has been named after
9th king of Malaysia and ‘Father of Malaysian Hockey’ Sultan Azlan Shah also avid fan of field hockey.
It was established in 1983 as biennial sporting event. It was converted into annual event after 1998,
following its growth and popularity. Australia has won prestigious tournament for record 10 times in
1983, 1998, 2004, 2005, 2007, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2016 and 2018. India had won it 4 times 1985, 1991,
1995, 2009 and shared it in 2010 with South Korea.
Kinzhal missile: Russia successfully launches hypersonic missile
March 12, 2018
Russia successfully launched high-precision aeroballistic Kinzhal hypersonic missile from a MiG-31
supersonic interceptor jet. During the test, the missile launch was normal and it hit preset target on
the test site. It also met its performance characteristics and time indicators.
Kinzhal missile System
The Kinzhal missile is one of array of new weapons developed by Russia. Kinzhal, the name means
double-edged Russian dagger. It can fly 10 times the speed of sound and has range of 2,000km. It is
equipped with high-precision aeroballistic missiles supporting air strikes without entering enemy’s
air defence zone. It can overcome air-defence systems.
The missile system has no counterparts across globe owing to high flight performance characteristic
of MiG-31 fighter jet and hypersonic missile with small radar signature and high maneuverability.

The first air unit equipped with Kinzhal system was deployed in Russia’s Southern Military District
in December 2017.
NCRB celebrates its 33rd Inception Day
March 12, 2018
The National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) celebrated its 33rd Inception Day on March 11, 2018. On
this occasion, “Citizen Services” mobile application developed in-house by NCRB was also released.
The application can be used by citizen for various services such as complaint registration and status
check, SOS – Stay Safe, View FIR detail, locate police stations, vahan-samanvay, emergency contact
list, police stations telephone directory etc.
National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)
NCRB is nodal agency under Union Home Ministry for authentic source of data on crime on various
parameters including accidents, suicides from across all the states of the country and prisons for
policy matters and research. It was established on 11 March 1986 as the central police organisation. It
is headquartered in New Delhi.
It is implementing and monitoring agency of Crime & Criminal Tracking Network System (CCTNS),
a Mission Mode Project under the National e-Governance Plan of Government. It also imparts
training in Information Technology (IT) and Finger Print Science for Indian Police Officers as well
Foreign Police officers.
NCRB publishes 4 annual publications on Crime, Prison Statistics, Accidental Deaths & Suicides and
Finger Prints. These publications serve as principal reference points on crime statistics.
First Indo-French Knowledge Summit held in New Delhi
March 12, 2018
The first Indo-French Knowledge Summit for university, scientific and technology cooperation was
successfully held in New Delhi. The two-day summit was organized by the French Embassy in India
and co-hosted by Ministry of Human Resource Development.
Key Facts
The summit’s broader objective was to design roadmap of Franco-India cooperation for next five
years, in collaboration with companies. It offered common platform for common goal to increase
student mobility, enlarge R&D collaborations and link campuses to companies by focusing on
employability.
More than 350 people from nearly 80 Indian Institutions and 70 French Institutions along with key
enterprises participated in summit. It also had received support of Ministry of Science and
Technology, Campus France and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII).
It ended with landmark agreement on mutual recognition of educational qualifications between two
countries and record 15 other MoUs between universities and research institutions on joint
initiatives and partnerships
During this event, various sessions and round tables on several topics of mutual interest of both t
countries were held including on aerospace, agriculture and food processing, eco-energy, maths and
information technology, strengthening employability among others.
India wins Best Exhibitor Award at ITB – Berlin
March 12, 2018
India won Best Exhibitor Award at ITB–Berlin World Tourist Meet convened at Berlin, Germany.
More than 100 countries had participated in the mega meet with their respective Tourism Ministers.
India was represented by Minister of State (Independent charge) for Tourism Mr K. J. Alphons along
with Tourism Ministry officials. India’s Incredible India (Ministry of Tourism) presented short film
named “Yogi of the Racetrack” in the meet. The short film had received 3.2 million hits in 60 hours.
ITB Berlin
The ITB Berlin (Internationale Tourismus-Börse Berlin) is world’s largest tourism trade fair. It is
represented by companies from tourism sector including hotels, tourist boards, tour operators,
system providers, airlines and car rental companies. The fair takes place annually in March at Messe
Berlin and always has official partner country.
India’s first coastal policing academy set up in Gujarat
March 12, 2018
India’s first national coastal policing academy, National Academy of Coastal Policing (NACP) to train

police forces in effectively safeguarding country’s shoreline will start functioning from April 2018. It
will be launched from campus of Gujarat’s Fisheries Research Centre located in coastal Okha town in
Devbhumi Dwarka district of Gujarat.
Key Facts
The first-of-its-kind national coastal policing academy will be created and run by multi-agency team
of paramilitary and defence forces to sharpen response and skills of marine forces of multiple states
which have sea lines.
It will train police personnel and other security agencies staff in maritime laws, seamanship, boat
work, navigation, weapons handling, usage of sea guidance and surveillance gadgets and survival
skills for long haul operations on sea or during distress times when they may get stranded in these
territorial waters running up to 12 nautical miles from shore.
The Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPRD) will pilot establishment and running of
academy. The Border Security Force (BSF), Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard (ICG) will form core
to run academy. The BSF will also provide security to campus. Indian Navy an ICG will help design
training curriculum, provide skilled trainers and ensure access to jetties and boats for trainees of
academy. Gujarat government will provide two interceptor boats stationed at Okha to academy.
It will have faculty from Indian Navy, ICG and BSF.
Background
India has 7,517-km long coastline and has 12 major ports and 187 minor or intermediate ports. India’s
territorial waters end at 12 nautical miles while EEZ stretches to 200 nautical miles from the coast.
At present there is no institute that trains marine or coastal police forces subjects related to coastal
policing and security in professional manner. The need for training academy was specially felt after
India faced major sea-borne terror attack in November 2008 in Mumbai (financial capital of country)
planned and articulated from Pakistan.
MILES-18: First ever multi-nation naval exercise at sea held in Andaman
March 12, 2018
The MILES-18, first-ever multi-nation naval exercise at sea was held at the Andaman sea. The three
days exercise was conducted as part of 10th edition of MILAN 2018.
Milan 2018, a multi-national mega event was organised by Andaman Nicobar naval command with
theme ‘Friendship Across the Seas’ to expand regional cooperation and combat unlawful activities in
critical sea lanes.
MILES-18
11 naval ships of 8 countries (Australia, Bangladesh, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Sri
Lanka and Thailand) and nine Indian ships had participated in MILES-18. It was aimed to enhance
inter-operability between participating countries. It also had enabled honing of search and rescue
operations procedures, maritime interdiction operations, core operational skills and exercise and
variety of maritime security scenarios.
Background
Milan exercise was first held in 1995 with participation of just five navies. Its aim was to have
effective forum to discuss common concerns in Indian Ocean Region (IOR) and forge deeper
cooperation among friendly navies. The exercise is being hosted biennially by Indian Navy under the
aegis of Andaman and Nicobar Command.
Samvedna 2018: IAF’s first multilateral HADR air exercise in South Asia
March 12, 2018
Samvedna 2018, the first multilateral Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise
of Indian Air Force (IAF) in association with South Asian Region nations was held off the coast of
Kerala. The multilateral exercise was spearheaded by IAF and conducted by Southern Air Command
(SAC) and involved representatives from air forces of Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Nepal and UAE.
Key Facts
Samvedna, which means ‘Empathy’ focused on practising Air Force-centric HADR solutions in Multi-
national cooperative Disaster Management environment. The objective of exercise was to galvanise
all stakeholders in synergising unified HADR efforts. It will also ensure better understanding and
sharing of response procedures between number of friendly neighbouring nations.
The entire settings of exercise was based on scenario of tsunami in western coast of India originating

from earthquake in Makran subduction zone (along northeastern margin of Gulf of Oman adjacent to
southwestern coast of Balochistan of Pakistan) and resulting in post-tsunami disaster management
along western coast and western islands of India.
The exercise will provide clear understanding of scope, role and task, including challenges in air
operations and ensuring better understanding and sharing of response procedures among nations.
The broad format of exercise will include ground training and flying exercise.
This exercise will help in putting in place basic framework for conduct of Joint Air HADR operations
in the region, which will be further refined during subsequent exercises. It is also expected to lead to
more coordinated and efficient HADR Air operations in entire South Asian region when need arises.
India, France co-hosts International Solar Alliance summit
March 12, 2018
India, France co-hosted first International Solar Alliance (ISA) Summit at Rashtrapati Bhavan
Convention Centre in New Delhi. The aim of the summit was to deliberate on finance mechanism for
promotion of solar energy in member countries, crowd-funding and technology transfer.
Key Facts
The summit was co-hosted by President Ram Nath Kovind and his French counterpart President
Emmanuel Macron. It was attended by 21 heads of states and heads of government, several top
ministers and bureaucrats apart from participants from multilateral banks and United Nations. Its
focus was to mobilise $1 trillion of investments needed by 2030 for massive deployment of solar
energy. The summit was of particular significance to India as it strives to achieve ambitious target of
generating 175 GW of renewable energy, including 100 GW of solar energy, by 2022.
Key Takeaway from Summit
10-point action plan: It was presented by India. It includes making affordable solar technology
available to all nations, raising share of electricity generated from photovoltaic cells, framing
regulations and standards, providing consultancy support for bankable solar projects and creating
network of centres for excellence.
Common risk mitigation mechanism: It was announced by France. It will be put in place before the
end of 2018. The mechanism was developed by taskforce comprising Council on Energy,
Environment and Water, Terrawatt Initiaitve and The Currency Exchange Fund (TCX).
Delhi Solar Agenda: It was launched at founding summit, which states that countries will pursue
increased share of solar energy in final energy consumption in their respective national energy mix
to tackle global challenges of climate change.
Commitment to increase share of solar power: As many as 62 member-nations committed that they
will increase share of solar power in their energy mix to deal with climate change and provide energy
to underprivileged in society.
Financial Contribution: India will give $1.4 billion in aid to 15 other developing nations for 27 more
solar projects. It already has contributed $62 million to ISA corpus fund and for establishment of ISA
secretariat. Beside this, France will provide €700 million in loans and support by 2022 to emerging
economies for solar energy projects.
ISA is treaty-based inter-governmental organisation (first to be based in India) that was established
following as an alliance dedicated to the promotion of solar energy among its member countries. It is
one of the key takeaways at the 2015 Paris Climate summit. ISA is aimed at tapping solar energy in
countries that lie partially or fully between Tropics of Cancer and Capricorn. It is headquartered in
India.
March 13, 2018
Death penalty should stay: 12 out of 14 states/UTs
March 13, 2018
The 12 out of 14 states/UTs have replied to Home Ministry that capital punishment or death penalty
should stay, as it serves to act as deterrent in cases of heinous crimes such as murder and rape. The
Home Ministry had forwarded proposal to abolish death penalty to states/UTs based on
recommendation of Law Commission of India (LCI). The states/UTs that vetoed abolition of capital
punishment were Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Jharkhand, Bihar, Tamil Nadu

and Delhi. Only two states, Karnataka and Tripura, want practice to be done away with.
Background
In 2013, the Supreme Court had asked Law Commission to examine whether death penalty is
deterrent punishment or is retributive justice or serves an incapacitative goal. In its report in 2015,
Law Commission, ten headed by Justice A P Shah, had proposed abolition of capital punishment for
non-terrorism cases (i.e. it should be abolished for all crimes other than terrorism related offences
and waging war). According to Law Commission’s Report, India is among handful of countries such
as China, Saudi Arabia, Iran and Iraq that still carry out executions. At end of 2014, 98 countries had
abolished death penalty, 7 had abolished it for ordinary crimes, and 35 were abolitionists in practice,
making 140 countries abolitionists in law or practice.
India attracts $209 billion FDI in 2014-2017: Government
March 13, 2018
India has attracted reaching US $208.99 billion foreign direct investment (FDI) during April 2014 to
December 2017 period. The main sectors that received maximum FDI include services, computer
software and hardware, telecommunications, construction, trading and automobile.
Key Facts
Foreign investments are considered crucial for India as it needs around 1 trillion dollars for
overhauling its infrastructure sector such as ports, airports and highways to boost growth. Strong
inflow of foreign investments mainly helps to improve the country’s balance of payments (BoP)
situation and also strengthen the rupee value against other global currencies, especially dominant
US dollar. To attract inflow of foreign investments, the central government has announced several
measures including liberalisation of FDI policy and improvement in business climate.
National Conference on Counterfeiting & Role of Enforcement Agencies held in New Delhi
March 13, 2018
The National Conference on Counterfeiting and Role of Enforcement Agencies was held in New
Delhi. It was organised by Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM) in collaboration with
European Union (EU). It was inaugurated by Minister of Commerce and Industry Suresh Prabhu.
Key Facts
The conference aimed to provide common platform to national and international experts to have
dialogue and exchange best practices for benefit of enforcement agencies, and industry
representatives and provide fresh ideas for further strengthening IPR protection ecosystem.
It provided platform to officials to share their experiences and better inter-agency coordination with
respect to tackling menace of counterfeiting. It was attended by officials of various enforcement
agencies, many IP professionals, lawyers, e-commerce stakeholders and people from industry
associations.
Cell for IPR Promotion and Management (CIPAM)
CIPAM is a professional body under the aegis of the Department of Industrial Policy & Promotion
(DIPP) Ministry of Commerce & Industry. Its mandate is to effectively implement National
Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Policy adopted in May 2016 with slogan – “Creative India;
Innovative India”. It has undertaken several measures to strengthen IP ecosystem in the country.
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India inks MoU with RBI
March 13, 2018
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU)
with Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for increased cooperation in effective implementation of insolvency
law. The MoU was singed at time when authorities are working on ways to address huge amount of
non-performing assets (NPAs) in banking sector.
Key Facts
The MoU provides for sharing of information, subject to limitations imposed by applicable laws and
sharing of resources available with each other to extent feasible and legally permissible. It calls for
periodic meetings to discuss matters of mutual interest, including regulatory requirements that
impact IBBI and RBI’s responsibilities, enforcement cases, research and data analysis, information
technology and data sharing.
It also provides for cross-training of staff in order to enhance each party’s understanding of other’s
mission for effective utilisation of collective resources. It will help in capacity building of insolvency

professionals and financial creditors. It calls for joint efforts between IBBI and RBI for enhancing
level of awareness among financial creditors about importance and necessity of swift insolvency
resolution process of various types of borrowers in distress under provisions of Insolvency Code, etc.
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016 (Code)
The Code provides for reorganisation and time -bound and market-determine insolvency resolution
of corporate persons, partnership firms and individuals for maximization of value of assets. The IBBI
exercises regulatory oversight over Insolvency Professionals, Insolvency Professional Agencies and
Information Utilities. It frames and enforces rules for processes such as corporate insolvency
resolution, individual insolvency resolution, corporate liquidation and individual bankruptcy under
Code.
Background
Both RBI and IBBI are interested in effective implementation of Code and its allied rules and
regulations, through quick and efficient resolution process. Therefore, they agreed to sign MoU to
assist and co-operate with each other for effective implementation of Code.
Government institutes Union Home Minister’s Medal for Excellence in Police Investigation
March 13, 2018
The Union Government has approved proposal to institute Union Home Minister’s Medal for
Excellence in Police Investigation. The award aims to promote high professional standards of
Investigation of Crime in State/UT Police and Central Investigating Agencies (CIAs) in the country.
Key Facts
Officers from rank of Sub-Inspector to Superintendent of Police will be eligible for this honour. The
names of awardees will be declared every year on 15th August. The awardees will get certificate
signed by Union Home Minister along with medal and their names will be published in Gazette of
India.
Bureau of Police Research and Development (BPR&D) will invite nominations from States/UTs/CIAs
based on recommendations from State-level Committee headed by ADG rank officer. These
nominations will be processed by screening committee in BPR&D and approved by sanctioning
committee in Home Ministry.
Based on the average crime data for last three years, total 162 medals will be awarded every year, of
these, 137 will be for States/UTs and 25 for CIAs viz. National Investigation Agency (NIA), Central
Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and Narcotic Control Bureau (NCB). There will be quota of medals for
women investigators also.
Distribution of medals among States/UTs will be on basis of average of IPC crimes registered by
them and crime data published by National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) for years 2013, 2014 &
2015. The distribution of medals will be reviewed after every 3 years based on average crime data.
Government forms Tribunal to solve Mahanadi Water dispute between Odisha & Chhattisgarh
March 13, 2018
The Ministry of Water Resources, River Development and Ganga Rejuvenation has constituted
Mahanadi Water Dispute Tribunal for adjudication of longstanding disputes between Odisha and
Chhattisgarh over sharing of Mahanadi river water. The tribunal was formed under Section 4 of
Inter-State River Water Disputes Act, 1956 following directives of Supreme Court on January 2018.
Key Facts
Composition: The tribunal will have three members. Chief Justice of India (CJI) has nominated
Supreme Court Judge A M Khanwilkar as chairman of Tribunal. The two other members are Justice
Ravi Ranjan of Patna High Court and Jusitce Indwermeet Kaur Kochar of Delhi High Court. It will be
provided with services of two assessors who are water resources experts having experience in
handling sensitive water-related issues.
Mandate: The tribunal will determine water sharing among basin States on basis of overall
availability of water in complete Mahanadi basin, contribution and present utilisation of water
resources in each state and potential for future development.
Term: The tribunal will be headquartered in New Delhi. It is required to submit its report and
decision within three years which can be extended to maximum two years due to unavoidable
reasons.

Background
Since mid-80s, Odisha and Chhattisgarh are locked in dispute over sharing of water of Mahanadi
River. Odisha has claimed that Chhattisgarh government has been constructing dams in upper
reaches of Mahanadi, depriving its farmers who are heavily dependent on river water. Odisha
Government had moved to Supreme Court in 2016 seeking direction to Chhattisgarh Government to
stop all construction of barrages and dams on upper stream of river. Following the apex court order,
Union Cabinet in February 2018 had approved proposal to constitute tribunal.
IIP expands at 7.5% in January 2018
March 13, 2018
According to data released by the Central Statistics Office (CSO), India’s factory output, measured by
Index of Industrial Production (IIP) recorded overall 7.5% growth in January 2018, indicating early
signs of industrial revival.
Factory output grew at 7.1% in December 2017, before hitting 25-month high of 8.4% in November
2017. The cumulative IIP growth for period of April-January over corresponding period of previous
year was 4.1%.
Key Facts
Manufacturing sector: It increased to 8.7% in January 2018 as compared to 8.5% in December 2017. It
was led by improved production of consumer durables and continued double-digit growth of
consumer non-durables as well as capital goods.
Mining output: It recorded growth of 0.1% in January 2018 compared to 1.2% in December 2017.
Electricity generation: It recorded 7.6% growth in January 2018, as compared 4.4% growth in
December 2017.
Capital goods output: It is a barometer of investment and considered as proxy to measure private
sector investment activity. It was 14.6% in January 2018 compared to 16.4% in December 2017.
Consumer durables output: It was 8% in January 2018 as compared meagre 0.9% rise in December
2017.
Consumer non-durables production: It recorded 10.5% growth in January 2018 from 16.5% in
December 2017.
Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
The 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.
Base year: The CSO had revised the base year of the IIP from 2004-05 to 2011-12 in May 2017 to
capture structural changes in the economy and improves the quality and representativeness of the
indices. The revised IIP (2011-12) reflects the changes in the industrial sector and also aligns it with
base year of other macroeconomic indicators like the Wholesale Price Index (WPI) and Gross
Domestic Product (GDP).
Sector wise items and weightages: It covers 407 item groups. Sector wise, the items included falls into
3 categories viz. Manufacturing (405 items), Mining (1 items) & Electricity (1 item). The weights of the
three sectors are 77.63%, 14.37%, 7.9% respectively. The revised 8 core Industries have combined
weightage of 40.27% in IIP.
Government forms committee to probe illegal cultivation of HT Cotton
March 13, 2018
The Department of Biotechnology in Ministry of Science and Technology has constituted Field
Inspection and Scientific Evaluation Committee (FISEC) to investigate matter of illegal cultivation of
Herbicide Tolerant (HT) or BG-III cotton in four states.
Background
The committee was constituted after there were several media reports and complaints regarding
illegal or unauthorised cultivation of HT cotton in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Gujarat and
Maharashtra. The cultivation of HT cotton (BG-III) is not approved by country’s biotech regulator,
Genetic Engineering Approval Committee (GEAC) of Ministry of Environment.
The unofficial estimates put the extent of unauthorised cotton to be about 20% in the country. The

commercial cultivation, sale, cultivation and seed production of unapproved HT cotton is punishable
offence under Seeds Act 1966, Seed Rule 1968, Seeds (Control) Order 1983 with regard to
Environmental Protection Act, 1986 and Environmental Protection Rules, 1989.
HT Cotton
Herbicide-Tolerant (HT) Cotton also known as BG-III cotton is innovation in Bt Cotton as it takes
care of weeds problem at much lower cost as compared to physical labour required for weeding. It
contains Round-up Ready and Round-up Flex (RRF) gene. The RRF herbicide-tolerant trait was
developed and commercialised by US-based multinational seed giant Monsanto.
Harmful effects
The herbicide-resistant gene in HT cotton can spread through pollen into biodiversity system
leading to transformation of weeds into super weeds on large-scale. It will threaten growth and
yields of all crops in future and also increase cultivation costs and lead to health hazards.
March 14, 2018
Bidya Devi Bhandari: Nepal’s 1st woman President re-elected for 2nd term
March 14, 2018
Nepal’s first woman President Bidya Devi Bhandari (56) was relected for second term in office. In the
presidential election, she defeated Nepali Congress (NC) leader Kumari Laxmi Rai with overwhelming
majority. Ms. Bhandari was elected with more than a two-thirds majority after she secured 39,275
votes while the Nepali Congress’s Ms. Rai garnered 11,730 votes.
Background
President of Nepal is ceremonial head of state, under the new Republican Federal Constitution of
Nepal. The electoral college for presidential election comprised of members of Parliament and
Provincial Assemblies. Ms. Bhandari’s nomination for re-election was backed by ruling Left alliance
of CPN-UML and CPN (Maoist Centre), Sanghiya Samajbai Forum-Nepal and other fringe parties. ith
148 lawmakers in Federal Parliament and 243 in Provincial Assemblies, the CPN-UML commanded
total vote of 23,356. Opposition NC having 76 seats in parliament and 113 in provincial assemblies,
had total votes of 11,428.
Bidya Devi Bhandari
She was born on June 1961 in Bhojpur, Nepal. She became Nepal’s first woman President in 2015.
Prior to getting elected, she was deputy leader of Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist
Leninist)-CPN-UML party led by incumbent Prime Minister Khadga Prasad Oli. She was elected twice
in parliamentary elections in 1994 and 1999. Earlier she had served as Defence Minister of the
country and has been an active campaigner for women’s rights.
Foreign law firms can’t practice in India, but their lawyers can advice: SC
March 14, 2018
The Supreme Court held that foreign law firms cannot set up offices and their lawyers cannot
practise in India but they can give legal advice on foreign laws. The ruling was given by apex court on
appeal by Bar Council of India (BCI), challenging judgements by Bombay and Madras High Courts.
The ruling does not permit globalization of the legal sector as of now but it shifts the onus on Central
Government to do so.
SC Ruling
It allowed casual visits by foreign lawyers on fly in and fly out (FIFO) basis for rendering legal advice
to clients in India. In this case, expression FIFO will only cover casual visit not amounting to
‘practice’ or for purpose of giving legal advice to clients in India regarding foreign law or their own
system of law and on diverse international legal issues. BCI or Central Government can make
appropriate rules in this regard including extending the code of ethics being applicable to foreign
lawyers and entities.
It also modified provisions of Advocates Act, 1961 for debarring foreign lawyers completely from
conducting international commercial arbitration in country. Similarly, it held that BPO companies
providing services like word processing, transcription services, secretarial support and proof-
reading services do not come within purview of Advocates Act, so are allowed to function from India.
Background
The Madras high court in 2012 had ordered to permit foreign lawyers and law firms to come to India
on FIFO basis for rendering legal services here on offshore laws and diverse international legal

issues. It had held that there is no bar on foreign lawyers, under Indian laws and regulations, visiting
India for rendering legal advice to their clients in India. It was added that foreign lawyers could not
be barred from coming to India for conducting arbitration proceedings in disputes involving
international commercial arbitration. On similar lines, Bombay high court in 2009 had said that
foreign law firms/companies or foreign lawyers could not practise law in India either in the litigation
or non-litigation side.
C-17 Globemaster: IAF for first time lands its largest transport aircraft at Arunachal Pradesh’s
Tuting airfield
March 14, 2018
The Indian Air Force (IAF) for first time flawlessly landed its largest transport US-manufactured
aircraft, C-17 Globemaster at strategic Tuting Advanced Landing Ground (ALG) in Arunachal
Pradesh, which is close to Chinese border. After the trial landing, C17 carried out operations mission
and airlifted 18 tons of load.
Key Facts
The landing of this aircraft is seen as part of IAF’s move to strengthen its overall operations in strategically-key
border state. It also demonstrated IAF’s capability in terms of operational performance and tactical air mobility in
challenging Tuting airfield which is surrounded high hills in narrow valley.
Earlier, in November 2016 too, IAF had successfully carried out landing of C-17 Globemaster at its strategic ALG
of Mechuka in West Siang district of Arunachal Pradesh which was re-activated in May 2016 and is just 29
kilometers from border with China.
C-17 Globemaster
The C-17 is US-manufactured transport aircraft commonly used to perform strategic airlift missions, transporting
troops and cargo throughout the world along with medical evacuation and airdrop duties.
It is 174 feet long and has wingspan of about 170 feet (52 m). Its cargo compartment is 88 feet (27 m) long by 18
feet (5.5 m) wide by 12 feet 4 inches (3.76 m) high.
Its floor has rollers for palletized cargo but it can be flipped to provide flat floor suitable for vehicles and other
rolling stock. The cargo
It can be operated in diverse terrain from Himalayan air bases in North India at 13,000 ft to Indian Ocean bases in
South India. It can carry payload of 77.50 tonnes and its maximum takeoff weight is 265 tonnes.
Indian Air Force in June 2009 had planned induct C-17 for its very heavy lift transport aircraft requirement to
replace several types of transport aircraft. In 2011, IAF and Boeing had agreed with terms for order of 10 C-17s
with an option for six more. In 2013, C-17 was officially put into service by IAF.
IATA partners with Civil Aviation Ministry and National Aviation University
March 14, 2018
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has signed Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) and National Aviation University (NAU) to enhance
human resource availability in India’s aviation industry.
Key Facts
The three parties to the MoU formalised this partnership on sidelines of Wings India 2018 held in
Hyderabad, Telangana. Under the agreement, signatory institutions will leverage existing
infrastructure for training in India to expand reach of vocational training in aviation disciplines. It
also provides for developing closer academic cooperation between IATA and National Aviation
University.
India is expected to be third largest aviation market in the world behind China and US by 2024. It is
forecasted to grow to a market size of 480 million passengers in 2036. This partnership will help
contribute to human resource capacity building for India.
Wings India 2018
It was international exhibition and conference on civil aviation sector hosted from March 8-10, 2018
at the Begumpet Airport in Hyderabad. It provided forum for rapidly changing dynamics of aviation
sector. It was jointly organised by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI),
Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports Authority of India (AAI). Its theme was ‘India – Global
Aviation Hub’. It hosted numerous conferences focusing on aviation policy issues and business

aspects with eminent speakers, policy makers and experts.

International Air Transport Association (IATA)
IATA is trade association of the world’s airlines. It was established in April 1945 and is headquartered in Montreal,
Quebec, Canada with Executive Offices in Geneva, Switzerland.
It supports airline activity and helps formulate industry policy and standards. Its mission is to represent, lead and
serve the airline industry.
It comprises 278 airlines, primarily major carriers, representing 117 countries under its ambit. IATA’s member
airlines account for carrying approximately 83% of total aviation traffic across the world.
President inaugurates World Hindi Secretariat in Port Louis, Mauritius
March 14, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated World Hindi Secretariat building in Port Louis, Mauritius.
He also launched secretariat’s logo, an Early Digital Learning Programme as well unveiled foundation
stones of social housing project and large ENT hospital being built with Indian assistance.
President Kovind visited Mauritius as part of first leg to his two-nation state visit (Mauritius and
Madagascar). Later he will visit Madagascar, making him first Indian President to visit largest
African island country.
World Hindi Secretariat
The Secretariat is fully financed by Government of India and provided grant of Rs. 33 crore. Land for it was given
by Government of Mauritius. Prime Minister Narendra Modi had laid the foundation stone of this building during
his visit in 2015.
The aim of secretariat is to present Hindi as common man’s language, Janbhasha, in front of the world. Hindi as
language has played an important role in culture and society building in both India and Mauritius. Indian diaspora
in Mauritius has played a huge role in the spread of Hindi.
ICMR wins 2017 Kochon Prize for TB research
March 14, 2018
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) was awarded 2017 Kochon Prize for building tradition
of excellence in Tuberculosis (TB) research and development. It had emerged winner from among 18
nominations.
It was awarded for establishing India TB Research Consortium to accelerate R&D efforts in the
country. The consortium is working with public and private institutes to guide country’s research
efforts towards development of point-of-care diagnostics, shorter treatment regimens and effective
vaccine for TB.
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
The ICMR is India’s apex scientific body for the formulation, coordination and promotion of
biomedical research. It was established in 1911 as Indian Research Fund Association (IRFA) making it
one of the oldest and largest medical research bodies in the world. The ICMR functions under the
Department of Health Research, Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It is headquartered in
New Delhi.
ICMR’s Governing Body is presided over by Union Health Minister. It is assisted in scientific and
technical matters by Scientific Advisory Board comprising eminent experts in different biomedical
disciplines. Its research priorities coincide with National health priorities such as control and
management of communicable diseases, fertility control, maternal and child health, control of
nutritional disorders, research on major non-communicable diseases like cancer, cardiovascular
diseases, blindness, diabetes and mental health research and drug research (including traditional
remedies) and developing alternative strategies for health care delivery,
Kochon Prize
The Kochon Prize is awarded annually by Stop TB Partnership to individuals and organizations that
have made significant contribution to combating the disease. The prize is endowed by Kochon
Foundation, a non-profit foundation registered in South Korea. It consists of prize of US $65,000
award.
The prize was established in 2006 in honour of late Chairman Chong-Kun Lee (left), founder of Chong
Kun Dang Pharmaceutical Corporation and Kochon Foundation. He was committed throughout his
career to improve access to low-cost lifesaving antibiotics and anti-TB drugs.

India-UK Joint Team wins Newton-Bhabha Fund for Groundwater Arsenic Research project
March 14, 2018
India-United Kingdom (UK) Joint Team has won Newton-Bhabha Fund for project on Groundwater
Arsenic Research in Ganga River Basin. The project was undertaken by Department of Science and
Technology (DST) in collaboration with Natural Environment Research Council (NERC), UK to find
solutions to water challenges faced in pervasively arsenic-affected Ganga River Basin.
Key Facts
The Indian team comprised representatives of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur, National Institute
of Hydrology, IIT Roorkee and Mahavir Cancer Sansthan and Research Centre of Patna.
The UK team consisted of representatives of University of Manchester, University of Salford, British Geological
Survey and University of Birmingham.
The project is aimed to assess problem of arsenic poisoning and to understand aggravation such situation in next
25 to 30 years and its influence on groundwater management practices and suggest water remedial technologies
accordingly. It is conducted from three sites – Bijnor and Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh and Nadia in West Bengal.
Newton Bhabha Fund,
It is provided by the British Council. It aims to bring together UK and Indian scientific research and
innovation sectors to find joint solutions to the challenges facing India in economic development and
social welfare.
Arsenic Contamination
Arsenic is natural component in the earth’s crust. It is widely distributed throughout the environment in the air,
water and land. It is highly toxic in its inorganic form. Arsenic contaminated water used for drinking, irrigation of
food crops and food preparation poses the greatest threat to public health from arsenic.
Long-term exposure to arsenic from drinking-water and food can lead to chronic arsenic poisoning. It can cause
cancer, skin lesions, developmental effects, cardiovascular disease, neurotoxicity and diabetes.
Arsenic Contamination is a high-profile problem in the Ganges Delta, due to the use of deep tubewells for water
supply. The groundwater in these tube wells have high concentrations of arsenic in deeper levels.
Delhi End-TB Summit: PM launches campaign to eradicate TB from India by 2025
March 14, 2018
Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched Tuberculosis (TB) Free India Campaign after he
inaugurated Delhi End-TB Summit in New Delhi.
The summit was co-hosted by Union Health Ministry, World Health Organisation (WHO) South East
Asia Regional Office and Stop TB Partnership. It set stage for September 2018 United Nations High-
Level Meeting on TB, where for first time, TB will be discussed in UN General Assembly (UNGA) at
Heads of State level.
TB Free India Campaign
The campaign aims to take activities of National Strategic Plan (NSP) for TB elimination forward in Mission
mode. It will have funding of over Rs. 12,000 crore over next three years.
It sets deadline to eradicate TB from the country by 2025, five years ahead of global target of 2030 mentioned in
the Sustainable Development Goals.
The motto of NSP under the campaign is to ensure every TB patient has access to quality diagnosis, treatment, and
support.
It adopts multi-pronged approach which aims to detect all TB patients with emphasis on reaching TB patients
seeking care from private providers and undiagnosed TB in high-risk populations.
It will treat all patients irrespective of where they seek care by adopting patient-centric approach and prevent
emergence of TB in susceptible population groups and build empowered institutions and human resources to
streamline implementation.
March 15, 2018
US challenges India’s export subsidy programmes at WTO
March 15, 2018
The US Trade Representative (USTR) has challenged Indian export subsidy schemes at World Trade
Organisation (WTO), saying these programmes harm its manufacturing sector and workers by
creating an uneven playing field.

Key Facts
According to USTR, at least half a dozen Indian programmes provide financial benefits to Indian
exporters, which allow them to sell their goods more cheaply to detriment of US workers and
manufacturers. These programs are Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS), Export
Oriented Units Scheme and sector specific schemes, including Electronics Hardware Technology
Parks Scheme, Special Economic Zones (SEZs), Export Promotion Capital Goods Scheme (EPCGS) and
Duty Free Imports for Exporters Programme.
It has alleged that through these programmes, India has given exemption from certain duties, taxes,
and fees which benefits numerous exporters, including producers of steel products,
pharmaceuticals, chemicals, information technology products, textiles, and apparel.
It also has alleged that earlier India was under limited exception rule under WTO specified for
developing countries. It allowed specified countries to continue to provide export subsidies
temporarily until they reach defined economic benchmark. But now it has surpassed benchmark in
2015. India’s exemption has expired, but India has not withdrawn its export subsidies and in fact it
has increased size and scope of these programs.
Background
The US administration under President Donald Trump has taken various protectionist measures in
an attempt to bring down its trade deficit from around $800 billion annually. For this, it is holding its
trading partners accountable by vigorously enforcing US rights under various trade agreements and
by promoting fair and reciprocal trade through all available tools, including the WTO. Earlier in
March 2018, the Trump administration had announced tariffs of 25% and 10% on all steel and
aluminum imports citing national security issue.
QOL-2C: AYUSH Drug developed by CCRAS for cancer patients
March 15, 2018
The Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS) has undertaken development of
coded drug AYUSH QOL-2C for improving quality of life in cancer patients. It had conducted clinical
studies of the drug in breast cancer patients at St. John’s Medical College, Bengaluru and AIIMS, New
Delhi and in lung cancer patients at Bhagwan Mahaveer Cancer Hospital and Research Centre,
Jaipur.
Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic Sciences (CCRAS)
CCRAS is autonomous body under the Ministry of AYUSH. It is apex body in India for formulation,
coordination, development and promotion of research on scientific lines in Ayurveda and Sowa-
Rigpa system of medicine. It undertakes scientific activities through its 30 Institutes/Centres/Units
located all over the country and also through collaborative studies with various Universities,
Hospitals and Institutes. It is headquartered in New Delhi.
India-Sri Lanka: Cabinet approves MoU between for promoting cooperation in IT and Electronics
March 15, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) inked between India and Sri
Lanka for promoting cooperation in field of Information Technology and Electronics (IT&E). The
MoU was signed in January 2018 during the visit of Minister of Electronics & Information
Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad to Sri Lanka.
Key Facts
The MoU intends to promote closer co-operation in areas of e-Governance, e-Public Services
Delivery, m-Governance, cyber security, software technology parks, start-ups ecosystem etc. It will
also enhance bilateral cooperation in ICT domain both B2B and G2G. It will be implemented by
establishing Working Group on IT&E composed of representatives of two countries.
Background
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has been mandated to promote
international cooperation in emerging and frontier areas of ICT under bilateral and regional
framework of cooperation. Under this mandate, MeitY has entered into MoUs/Agreements with
counterpart organizations and agencies of various countries to promote close cooperation and
exchange of information in field of ICT.

India-Iran: Cabinet approves Agreement for Avoidance of Double Taxation

March 15, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved Agreement for Avoidance of Double Taxation and Prevention of
Fiscal Evasion with respect to taxes on income between India and Iran. The Agreement is on similar
lines as entered into by India with other countries.
Key Facts
The agreement will stimulate flow of investment, technology and personnel from India to Iran & vice
versa and prevent double taxation. It will provide for exchange of information between two
contracting parties as per latest international standards. It will improve transparency in tax matters
and will help curb tax evasion and tax avoidance. It also meets treaty related minimum standards
under G-20 OECD Base Erosion & Profit Shifting (BEPS) Project, in which India participated on equal
footing.
Background
The Central Government is authorized to enter into Agreement with other country or specified
territory for avoidance of double taxation of income for exchange of information for prevention of
evasion or avoidance of income-tax chargeable under Section 90 of Income Tax Act, 1961
CCEA approves continuation of Urea Subsidy Scheme
March 15, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved continuation of Urea Subsidy
Scheme from 2017 upto 2020 and implementation of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) for disbursement
of fertilizer subsidy. The proposal in these regards was forwarded by Department of Fertilizers,
Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers.
Key Facts
The continuation of the urea subsidy scheme will ensure timely payment of subsidy to urea
manufacturers resulting in timely availability of urea to farmers at statutory controlled price.
Implementation of DBT in Fertilizer Sector will reduce diversion of fertilizers to non-agricultural use
and plug leakages.
DBT in Fertilizer Sector
Department of Fertilizers is in process to roll out DBT in fertilizer sector nationwide. DBT will entail
100% payment to fertilizer companies on sale of fertilizers to farmers at subsidized rates. The DBT in
fertilizer sector being implemented is slightly different from normal DBT implemented for other
schemes. Under it, the subsidy will be released to the fertilizer companies instead of the beneficiaries,
after the sale is made by the retailers to the beneficiaries. The subsidy will be released on submission
of claims generated in the web-based online Integrated Fertilizer Monitoring System (iFMS) by
fertilizer companies.
Urea Subsidy Scheme
Urea Subsidy is part of Central Sector Scheme (CSS) of Department and is wholly financed by Central
Government of India through budgetary support. It also includes Imported Urea subsidy which is
directed towards import to bridge gap between assessed demand and indigenous production of urea
in the country. It also includes freight subsidy for movement of urea across the country.
Background
The use of chemical fertilizers have played pivotal role in making India self-reliant in food grain
production and provide very vital input for growth of Indian agriculture. For sustained agricultural
growth and to promote balanced nutrient application, urea is made available to farmers at statutorily
controlled price.
The fertilizer subsidy mainly is difference between delivered cost of fertilizers at farm gate and MRP
payable by farmer. It is given to fertilizer manufacturer/importer by Central Government. At present,
there are 31 urea manufacturing units, out of which 28 urea units use Natural Gas as feedstock/fuel
and remaining 3 urea units use Naphtha as feedstock.
WHO SEARO countries adopt Delhi End TB Summit Statement of Action to eradicate TB
March 15, 2018
The Member Countries of World Health Organization-Regional Office for South-East Asia (WHO-
SEARO), participating in Delhi End Tuberculosis (TB) Summit have adopted ‘Delhi End TB Summit
Statement of Action’.

The summit was co-hosted by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, WHO-SEARO and Stop TB
Partnership in New Delhi. It was inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and also launched
TB Free India Campaign.
Delhi End TB Summit Statement of Action
It identifies roles, responsibilities and directions of member countries of WHO SEARO region to
make their countries free from this disease. It commends increased attention, investments and
efforts directed at tackling region’s major burden of tuberculosis (TB).
It also expresses concern that most low-burden countries are yet to establish last mile programmes
for early ending of TB. It reiterates firm intent to implement response in each of our nations that is
demonstrably adequate for ending TB by 2030 and meeting milestones for 2020 by collectively
reaching out to missing 2 million BT cases and 150000 multidrug-resistant cases.
LEAD-INCREASE-ENABLE-SUPPLEMENT Priorities
LEAD implementation of national TB responses in countries by empowered national initiative that monitors
progress in reaching End TB targets to the highest levels of government in Member States.
INCREASE budgetary and human resource allocations by governments as well as by their global, domestic and
other partners so as to ensure that national TB plans are fully funded.
ENABLE best possible care to each and every person, including migrants, aged and other high-risk populations,
living with any form of TB including drug-resistant TB/ HIV co-infections.
SUPPLEMENT medical care for TB with social and financial protection in holistic manner.
15th March: World Consumer Rights Day
March 15, 2018
The World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) is celebrated every year on March 15 to pay solidarity with
the international consumer movement and give more attention to promote basic rights of
consumers. This year the theme promoted is “Making Digital Marketplaces Fairer”.
Significance of Day
It provides opportunity to promote the basic rights of all consumers
Demand those rights that must be respected and protected for those protesting against the market abuses and
social injustices.
It gives chance to protest against the market abuses and social injustices which undermine those rights.
Background
The World Consumer Rights Day (WCRD) commemorates the historic address given by the then US
President John F Kennedy to the US congress on this day in 1962. In his historic address he had
outlined the definition of consumer rights for the first time. He was the first world leader to formally
define ‘consumer rights’. The first WCRD was observed on 15 March 1983 and has since become an
important occasion for mobilizing citizen action. In 2017, WCRD was observed with the theme
“Building a Digital World Consumers can Trust”.
Note: In India, 24th December is observed as National Consumer Day. On this day in 1986, Consumer
Protection Act, 1986 had received the assent of the President. Moreover, Government (Ministry of
Consumer Affairs) runs Jago Grahak Jago” one of the strongest campaigns for addressal and
protection of consumer rights in India. It literally translates into, “wake up consumers”!
World Happiness Index 2018: India ranks 133
March 15, 2018
India was ranked 133rd among 156 countries inWorld Happiness Index 2018, recently released by the
UN Sustainable Development Solutions Network.
The index ranked 156 countries based on factors (parmaters) such as inequality, life expectancy, GDP
per capita, social freedom, generosity, public trust (i.e. a lack of corruption in government and
business) and social support. Together these parameters are used to generate a happiness score of
country on a scale from 1 to 10. This year it is sixth such list released since it was first published in
2012. The 2018 report, for the first time ranked happiness of foreign-born immigrants in 117
countries.
Key Facts
10 Happiest Countries: Finland (1st), Norway (2nd), Denmark (3rd), Iceland (4th), Switzerland (5th),
Netherlands (6th), Canada (7th), New Zealand (8th), Sweden (9th) and Australia (10th). United States

was ranked 18th down from 14th place last year. Britain was 19th and United Arab Emirates at 20th.
In 2018 rankings, top-10, as ever dominated by Nordic countries.
The entire top ten were wealthier developed nations. But the report mentioned that money is not the
only ingredient in the recipe for happiness. The entire top ten were wealthier developed nations. But
the report mentioned that money is not the only ingredient in the recipe for happiness.
India’s ranking: The world’s largest democracy’s rank fell to 133rd position from 122nd last year.
India was behind majority of South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) nations
apart from war-ravaged Afghanistan, which was ranked 145th. Pakistan (ranked 75th) and China
(86th) were well ahead of India in happiness index despite being not the most democratic or free
country.
SAARC nations: Pakistan (75th), Nepal (101st), Bhutan (97th), Bangladesh (115th), Sri Lanka (116th).
Environment Ministry gives nod to Neutrino project
March 15, 2018
The Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF’s) has given environmental clearance to India-based
Neutrino Observatory (INO) project to be set up in Bodi West hills in Tamil Nadu. The approval was
given by MoEF’s Expert Appraisal Committee (EAC) after taking up INO project issue as special case.
Key Facts
The project proponents during meeting with EAC have clarified that studies showed there will be no
impact of blasting on any habitation in the vicinity due to INO project. It was informed also that
there was no scope for radioactivity and leaching of water and these have been explained to courts.
EAC also stipulated specific conditions after granting clearance of which two are key for project to
take off. One is consent to establish and operate to be obtained from Tamil Nadu Pollution Control
Board (TNPCB).
India-Based Neutrino Observatory (INO) Project
The project aims at building a world-class underground laboratory with a rock cover of
approximately 1200 meter. Its mandate is to conduct basic research on elementary particle called
neutrino. It is jointly supported by Department of Atomic Energy (DAE) and Department of Science &
Technology (DST), with DAE acting as the nodal agency.
The observatory will be located underground in order to provide adequate shielding to the neutrino
detector from cosmic background radiation. It will comprise complex of caverns which will house
detector which is 130 metres long, 26 metres wide and 30 metre high.
Along with main cavern, there will be two smaller caverns that will be used for setting up
experiments for neutrino double detector and dark matters. The non-accelerator based high energy
and nuclear physics underground research complex will be approached by a 2-kms long tunnel.
The project also envisages construction of 50,000 tonne magnetised iron calorimeter detector
(ICAL). It will study the properties of the neutrino, in particular the mass hierarchy among different
types of neutrino.

India ranks 78th on WEF Energy Transition Index

March 15, 2018
India was ranked at 78th among 114 countries on World Economic Forum’s (WEF) Energy Transition
Index (ETI) released as part of report titled Fostering Effective Energy Transition. The index ranks
countries on how well they are able to balance energy security and access with environmental
sustainability and affordability.
Key Facts
Top 10 countries in 2018 ETI: Sweden (1st), Norway (2nd), Switzerland (3rd), Finland (4th), Denmark
(5th), Netherlands (6th), the UK (7th), Austria (8th), France (9th) and Iceland (10th).
BRICS Countries in ETI: Brazil (38th), Russia (70th) and China (76th).
India related facts
According to report, India has taken bold measures to improve energy access, energy efficiency and
to improve deployment of renewable sources of energy. However, energy transition in India will
require large investments and enabling environment along with robust regulatory frameworks to
support transition.
India is at crossroads in its energy transition journey. Its energy needs are primarily met by fossil
fuels with implications for environmental sustainability and increasing energy import costs.
Furthermore, considerable share of India’s population still lacks access to electricity and clean
cooking fuel.
In 2018 ETI, India ranks in third performance quartile and third readiness quartile, making it
emerging country that is approaching the leapfrog category. Interestingly, India has improved its
performance score by 5.6 percentage points between 2013 and 2018 period, mainly with improved
energy access, reduced subsidies and reduced import costs. India has largest government-mandated
renewable energy programme, with target of 175 GW renewable energy capacity by 2022, and it
announced plans to shift completely to electric vehicles by 2030.

March 16, 2018

Arunachal Pradesh Assembly passes bill to have two-tier Panchayati Raj
March 16, 2018
Arunachal Pradesh Assembly passed Panchayati Raj (Amendment) Bill 2018 to do away with the
Anchal Samiti, the intermediate level of the three-tier panchayati raj system and set up a two-tier
system in the state.
This is being done as per 73rd Amendment of Constitution that enables state having less than 20
lakh population not to have intermediate level and Arunachal has population of 13.84 lakh. Three-tier
panchayati raj institutions were set up in state in 2003, 2008 and 2013, and elections for next five-
year term were due in April-May 2018.
Key Facts
The purpose of setting up two-tier panchayati raj system in state is to standardis use of financial
resources due to poor resource base. Moreover, it also seeks to avoid delay in passing plans and
policies as they delayed at Anchal Samiti level (intermediate level).
In two-tier panchayati raj system, planning and execution of schemes will be faster as there will be
direct connection between Gram Panchayats and Zilla Parishads, the village and district levels of
panchayati raj system.
In two-tier system, even strength of elected members will be reduced, thus helping to save money for
conducting polls and functional costs on Anchal Samities. The revenue saved can be utilised for
developmental activities and strengthening panchayats.
China develops artificial heart with rocket technology
March 16, 2018
Chinese scientists have developed artificial heart using rocket technology and it is currently
undergoing thorough testing experiments on animals. The heart was developed jointly by China
Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology (CALT) and Teda International Cardiovascular Hospital in
North China’s Tianjin.

Key Facts
The artificial heart uses magnetic and fluid levitation from rocket system. This technology can
reduce friction in device to increase working efficiency and extend life span of power generator. This
technology used can reduce damage to the blood and enable blood pump to work longer.
Earlier Experiments
Fuwai Cardiovascular Hospital in China also developed artificial heart using magnetic levitation and
later planted them in three patients from June to October 2017. These artificial hearts were typically
used on patients while they were waiting for heart transplant or to permanently replace heart in case
heart transplants are not possible. In 2013, scientists planted man-made heart in sheep, which
survived for 120 days in good health. Then hearts were then placed in six other sheep and all survived
100 days or longer, which proved that heart is qualified for batch production
Haryana passes bill for death penalty for child rapists
March 16, 2018
The Haryana Assembly unanimously passed Criminal Law (Haryana Amendment) Bill, 2018
providing for death penalty for convicts found guilty of raping girls aged 12 years or less. With this,
Haryana became third state, after Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan to have provision of capital
punishment for such sexual offenders.
Key Features of Bill
The Bill amends Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) 1973 and
Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, 2012.
It inserts section 376-AA in IPC. It provides punishment of death or rigorous imprisonment of not
less than 14 years in case of rape of girl up to 12 years of age. This punishment may extend to
imprisonment for life that is for remainder period of person’s natural life.
It also inserts section 376-D in IPC. Under it, if girl upto 12 years of age is raped by one or more
persons constituting group, each of those persons shall be deemed to have committed offence of rape
and will be punished with death or rigorous imprisonment for term which will not be less than 20
years, but which may extend to life along with fine.
It also makes existing criminal laws related to other sexual offences more stringent. The punishment
under Section 354 of IPC (Assault or criminal force against woman with intent to outrage her
modesty) will not be less than 2 years (earlier not less than 1 year) but may extend up to 7 years
(earlier up to 5 years).
Sach-Gaurav: India’s first cloned Assamese buffalo born
March 16, 2018
The Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes (CIRB) has claimed that India’s first cloned Assamese
buffalo male calf named Sach-Gaurav was born in Hisar, Haryana. It was born to Murrah buffalo, at
Hi Tech Sach Dairy Farm, 100 kms from cloning laboratory, making it first buffalo calf to be born in
field.
Key Facts
Animal cloning is an excellent reproductive tool for conservation and multiplication of selected
superior animals of buffalo breeds. This is second cloned male buffalo produced by ICAR-CIRB after
Hisar-Gaurav, born in December 2015.
The Sach-Gaurav calf was produced unique methods and was delivered through normal delivery. The
birth weight of calf was 54.2 kgs and it was in good health. It had normal physiological parameters
and blood profile. The genotype of calf was confirmed by microsatellite analysis (parentage
verification) and chromosome analysis.
The small tissue of Assamese buffalo was airlifted from Veterinary College, Khannapara, Guwhati,
2000 km away from cloning laboratory in Hisar to culture establish donor cells. Its embryos were
transported for about two hours before being transferred into recipient mothers. The ovaries of
Murrah buffaloes were used as source of recipient oocytes.
Lok Sabha passes Specific Relief (Amendment) Bill, 2017
March 16, 2018
The Lok Sabha has passed Specific Relief (Amendment) Bill, 2017 to further ease procedures for doing
business in the country. The Bill seeks to amend the Specific Relief Act, 1963.

Features of Bill
Specific performance: The Bill seeks to remove conditions of specific performance is limited right,
which may be given by court at its discretion and permit specific performance by courts as general
rule. It adds limited liability partnership (LLP), a new entity formed from amalgamation of two
existing LLPs, one of which may have entered into a contract before the amalgamation.
Substituted performance: The Bill gives affected party (i.e. party whose contract has not been
performed by other party) option to arrange for performance of contract by third party or by his own
agency (substituted performance).
Injunctions: It prevent courts from granting injunctions in contracts related to infrastructure
projects, if such injunction hinder or delay completion of project in infrastructure sectors and their
sub-sectors like transport, energy, water and sanitation, communication and social and commercial
infrastructure. The central government may amend list of sectors through notification.
Special Courts: It allows state government to designate certain civil courts as Special Courts in
consultation with Chief Justice of High Court. These courts will deal with cases related to
infrastructure projects. Such cases must be disposed off within 1 year from date of receipt of
summons by defendant. This period can be extended by courts for another 6 months.
Recovery of possession: It permits person through whom dispossessed got possession of immovable
property, to file a suit for recovery.
Experts: It inserts new provision for engaging technical experts in suits where expert opinion may
be needed. The court will determine terms of payment of such expert. The payment of experts will
be borne by both parties.
Specific Relief Act, 1963
It is law sets out remedies available to parties whose contractual or civil rights have been violated. It
also provides a remedy that aims at the exact fulfilment of an obligation or specific performance of
the contract rather than a general relief or compensation or damages.
It sets out two main remedies to party whose contract has not been performed. First one, the party
may ask court to compel performance of contract (specific performance and second one, the party
may seek monetary compensation instead of performance.
Lok Sabha passes Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017
March 16, 2018
The Lok Sabha has passed Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017 to empower government to
fix period of maternity leave and tax-free gratuity amount with an executive order. The Bill seeks to
amend the Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972.
Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972
It allows for payment of gratuity to employees in any establishment, factory, mine, oilfield,
plantation, port, railways, company, or shop employing 10 or more workers. Under it, employees are
paid gratuity if they have provided at least 5 years of continuous service at time of termination.
The Bill empowers central government to notify period of maternity leave eligible for qualifying as
continuous service and determine amount of gratuity available to employees.
The maximum maternity leave, for the purpose of calculating continuous service under the Act, was
based on the maternity leave provided under the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961. The Bill removes the
reference to 12 weeks in Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 and empowers central government to notify the
maximum maternity leave. Under the Act, maximum maternity leave was 12 weeks and was changed
to 26 weeks by Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017.
The Bill removes the existing ceiling of Rs 10 lakh amount of gratuity payable to an employee and
states that the ceiling may be notified by the central government.
LaQshya program launched to improve quality of maternity care
March 16, 2018
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare launched LaQshya program aimed at improving quality
of maternity care in labour room and maternity Operation Theatre (OT). It is being implemented to
‘fast-track’ interventions for achieving tangible results.
Key Facts
The program aims to improve quality of care for pregnant women in labour room, maternity

Operation Theatre and Obstetrics Intensive Care Units (ICUs) and High Dependency Units (HDUs). It
is implemented at all Medical College Hospitals, District Hospitals and First Referral Unit (FRU) and
Community Health Center (CHCs).
Under it, multi-pronged strategy has been adopted such as improving infrastructure up-gradation,
ensuring availability of essential equipment, providing adequate human resources, capacity building
of health care workers and improving quality processes in labour room.
Significance
It will benefit every pregnant woman and new-born delivering in public health institutions.
It will reduce maternal and newborn morbidity and mortality.
It will improve quality of care during delivery and immediate post-partum period and enhance satisfaction of
beneficiaries.
It will provide Respectful Maternity Care (RMC) to all pregnant women attending public health facilities.
LaQshya certification
The NQAS (National Quality Assurance Standards) will monitor quality improvement in labour room
and maternity OT. Every facility achieving 70% score on NQAS will be certified as LaQshya certified
facility.
Facilities scoring more than 90%, 80% and 70% will be given Platinum, Gold and Silver badge
accordingly. Facilities achieving NQAS certification, defined quality indicators and 80% satisfied
beneficiaries will be provided financial incentives.
Pune tops in urban governance: ASICS 2017 report
March 16, 2018
Pune was ranked first among 23 cities across India in terms of quality of urban governance in the
fifth edition of Annual Survey of India’s City-Systems (ASICS) 2017 report released by Bengaluru-
based non-profit organisation, Janaagraha.
ASICS 2017
The objective of survey was to measure preparedness of cities to deliver high quality infrastructure
and services in long term by evaluating city systems. It spans 23 Indian cities and factors in answers
to 89 questions. These questions are classified on four categories viz. urban planning & design, urban
capacities & resources, transparency, accountability & participation and empowered & legitimate political
representation. These cities were scored on a scale of 0 (lowest) to 10 (highest) based on quality of
laws, policies, institutions and institutional processes that together help govern them. The report
addresses five major issues, and suggests solutions at local body, State and Central government
levels. It underlines need for sharp focus on City-Systems or institutional reforms to city governance
in our cities.
Key Highlights of ASICS 2017
In it, Pune topped the list by scoring 5.1 out of 10 for the first time. It was followed by Kolkata,
Thiruvananthapuram, Bhubaneswar and Surat with scores in range of 4.6 to 4.5. Delhi moved 3 spots
up to 6th place against 9th in 2016 survey. Mumbai’s ranking fell from 6th in 2016 to 9th in 2017. The
worst performers in ASICS 2017 were Bengaluru (scoring the least at 3 out of 10), Chandigarh,
Dehradun, Patna and Chennai. These constituted bottom five cities with scores ranging between 3
and 3.3 out of 10.

March 17, 2018

Maharashtra Government bans use of plastic
March 17, 2018
Maharashtra Government has banned use of plastic in time-bound manner, citing environmental and
public health concerns. The decision was taken at cabinet meeting led by Chief Minister Devendra
Fadnavis. The ban will include plastic bags, thermocol, disposable cups and plates, cutlery, non-
woven polypropylene bags, plastic pouches and packaging.
Key Facts
The ban exempts plastic used to cover medicines, forest and horticulture products, solid waste, tree
saplings and use of plastic in special economic zones (SEZ) for export purposes. Similarly, plastic
covers and wrappers used for manufactured and processed products would also be exempted.
The decision will be enforced across rural and urban Maharashtra. All municipal corporations,
councils, district collectors and chief executive officers (CEOs) of zilla parishads have been sensitised
to ensure its implementation in their respective regions.
All small and medium-scale industries (SMEs) and big industries involved in plastic businesses will
be provided adequate time frame to switch over to alternative modes of businesses. Government has

recommended various business models along with employment to people engaged in plastic
industries.
Government will also provide some incentives to those who strictly adhere to ban decision. There is
also proposal to slap penalty such as non-renewing of licences for shops and industries which violate
decision.
Jaipur to witness 8th Theatre Olympics
March 17, 2018
Jaipur will co-host 8th Theatre Olympics, the largest international theatre festival being held for the
first time in India. The Jaipur chapter of Theatre Olympics 2018 is organised by National School of
Drama (NSD) under the aegis of Ministry of Culture in collaboration with Ravindra Manch Society
and Art & Culture Department, Rajasthan Government.
Key Facts
As a co-host, it will provide great opportunity to highlight the cultural heritage of Rajasthan. It will
provide platform to number of folk art forms and theatre performers from state have. Rajasthan has
number of indigenous folk and theatrical art forms, most of which are popular among people such as
puppet dance, Kalbelia, Ghoomar among others. Some of folk art forms like Swaang, Gawri among
others will be showcased during the theatre festival.
8th Theatre Olympics
The 8th edition of Theatre Olympics was inaugurated by Vice president Venkaih Naidu in New Delhi
in February 2018. The event was organised by National School of Drama (NSD). The theme of festival
is – “Flag of Friendship“
The 51-day long nationwide theatre extravaganza will cover 17 cities in India with more than 25,000
artists performing 450 shows, 600 ambience performances and 250 youth show. 30 countries
participated in the festival from across the globe.
The Theatre Olympics
The Theatre Olympics is an international festival that brings together finest productions of well-
known theatre practitioners from around the world. It was established in 1993 in Delphi, Greece as an
initiative of noted Greek theatre director Theodorus Terzopoulus.
Greece was the first country to host the Theatre Olympics in 1995. Since then it was held in Japan
(1999), Russia (2001), Turkey (2006), South Korea (2010) and China (2014). The 7th edition of mega
carnival of theatre was held in Poland in 2016.
Prime Minister inaugurates 105th Indian Science Congress
March 17, 2018
Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 105th session of Indian Science Congress (ISC) at
Manipur Central University in Imphal. The focal theme of 5-day ISC is “Reaching the Unreached
Through Science & Technology”.
Key Facts
The ISC 2018 was organised by the Indian Science Congress Association (ISCA), a premier scientific
organisation of India. This is 2nd time the Science Congress is being held in the north east. Earlier it
was held at Shillong (Meghalaya) in 2009. Approximately, 5,000 delegates from all over country and
2,000 scientists along with four Nobel Laureates are participating in this year mega event. Under the
mentioned theme, scientists from across world will look at bridging social gaps through innovations.
Its thrust will be on science disciplines which impact society and sustainable development.
Background
ISCA was started in the year 1914 at its headquarters in Kolkata. It organises Indian Science Congress
annually in the first week of January. The first meeting of the ISCC was held in January 1914 in the
Asiatic Society, Kolkata. he 104th edition of ISC was held in Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh) with the
theme “Science and Technology for National Development”.
India inks $120 Million Loan agreement with to improve Rail Infrastructure
March 17, 2018
Government has inked $120 million loan agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) for
completion of projects to improve Rail Infrastructure along high-density corridors and operational
efficiency of Indian railways.
The loan has 20-year term, including grace period of 5 years and have annual interest rate

determined according to ADB’s London interbank offered rate (LIBOR) based lending facility, and
commitment charge of 0.15% per year.
Rail Infrastructure Improvement Project
The loan amount is 3 tranche of $500 million multi-tranche financing facility for Railway Sector
Investment Program approved by ADB Board in 2011. The loan amount will be used to complete the
ongoing works commenced under earlier tranches.
The project is aimed at enhancing efficiency of rail infrastructure through electrification,
introduction of modern signaling system and doubling rail tracks on key routes in country. It will
help to develop energy-efficient, safe, and reliable railway system that will result in reduced travel
time along project rail routes and improved operational and financial efficiency.
Funding will contribute towards achieving overall program outputs of double-tracking about 840
kms of rail routes and electrification of 640 kms of tracks along high density corridors. It will also
help to implement new accounting systems and provide additional safety measures including
collision avoidance equipment.
The loan proceeds will be used for busy freight and passenger routes in Chhattisgarh, Odisha,
Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh, including “Golden Quadrilateral” corridor that
connects Chennai, Kolkata, Mumbai and New Delhi.
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
ADB is regional development bank which aims to promote social and economic development in Asia.
It was established in 1966. It is headquartered in Manila, Philippines. Now it has 67 members, of
which 48 are from within Asia and the Pacific and 19 outside.
The ADB has been modelled closely on World Bank. It has similar weighted voting system where
votes are distributed in proportion with members’ capital subscriptions. As of 2014, Japan was
largest shareholder (capital subscription) having 15.7% shares followed by US (15.6%), China (6.5%),
India (6.4%), and Australia (5.8%).
Odisha Government to collaborate with RIMES for disaster management
March 17, 2018
The Odisha government will collaborate with Regional Integrated Multi-Hazard Early Warning
System (RIMES) for strengthening its early warning services and enhancing preparedness for
management of hazards in state.
The partnership will be forged between Odisha State Disaster Mitigation Authority (OSDMA) and
RIMES in field of drought monitoring and early warning for different natural disasters. RIMES is
already working with the Tamil Nadu State Disaster Management Authority.
Key Facts
Both entities will ink Memorandum of understanding (MoU) for collaboration and evolve
institutional mechanism between them for better coordination. The partnership will help OSDMA to
strengthen its quality, prediction ability and response capacity.
RIMES will provide technical support to OSDMA regarding analysis of data to be generated through
automatic weather stations being installed in all gram panchayats, validation of forecast, early
warning and preparedness for lightening, heat wave, flood, draught and Tsunami.
Significance
It will help OSDMA to engage integrated multi-hazard early warning system to strengthen its
prediction and response capability. The collaboration will also strengthen OSDMA for more effective
management of natural disasters.
It will also help in transfer of best practices among different countries of world in handling natural
disasters. It will also enhance warning response capacities of OSDMA by imparting specialized
expert training. It will also help to develop one-stop risk management system for all OSDMA needs-
integration of multiple data database/servers.
RIMES
The RIMES is an intergovernmental body registered under United Nations. It is owned and managed
by 45 collaborating countries in Asia Pacific and Africa Region. India is chairman of the body. It was
established in 2009 and was registered with UN in July 2009.
It operates from its regional early warning centre located at campus of Asian Institute of Technology
in Pathumthani, Thailand. It has evolved from efforts of countries in Africa and Asia in aftermath of

2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.

Mandate: It seeks to establish regional early warning system within multi-hazard framework for
generation and communication of early warning information and capacity building for preparedness
and response to trans-boundary hazards. It provides information related to Tsunami and extreme
weather conditions. It also acts as a test bed for emerging technologies and help to enhance
performance.
Krishi Unnati Mela held in New Delhi

March 17, 2018
The three-day annual Krishi Unnati Mela was held in New Delhi with focus on doubling farmers’
income. The objective of fair was to create awareness among farmers about latest agriculture-related
technological developments. In it, Prime Minister Narendra Modi laid foundation stone for 25 Krishi
Vigyan Kendras and unveil a portal on organic farming. PM Modi also conferred Krishi Karman
Award and Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhaya Krishi Vigyan Protsahan Puruskar to progressive farmers
and states on the occasion.
Key Facts
The Krishi Mela this year will be significant owing to the interests of farmers and those involved in
allied sectors. More than 900 stalls have been set up. The theme pavilions were on doubling of
farmers income, organic farming, cooperatives, farm inputs to assist farmers with latest
developments in farming technique and popularize dairy, animal husbandry, fisheries and
horticulture.
Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI),
Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Textiles,
North Eastern council also had set up their stalls at mela.
March 18-19, 2018
Philippines withdraws from International Criminal Court
March 19, 2018
Philippines has announced to withdraw from International Criminal Court (ICC) citing reason of
international bias and held that ICC was being utilised as a political tool against it. It will make
Philippines only second country to withdraw from the Rome statute, following Burundi in 2017.
South Africa attempted to leave in 2016, but its withdrawal was revoked by UN.
Key Facts
Philippines had ratified Rome statute related to Hague-based ICC in 2011. Its ratification was seen as

big step forward for human rights in Asia. Now its withdrawal is seen as blow for international
accountability in the region.
The ICC in February 2018 had announced that it was launching preliminary examination of President
Rodrigo Duterte’s bloody anti-drug crackdown that has drawn international concern. It is clamed
that nearly 4,000 drug suspects were killed as part of campaign, while human rights groups claim
the toll is around three times the numbers given by authorities.
International Criminal Court (ICC)
ICC is the world’s first intergovernmental legal body with permanent international jurisdiction to
prosecute individuals for genocide, crimes against humanity and war crimes. It is based in The Hague,
Netherlands. It began its functioning on 1 July 2002, the date that Rome Statute entered into force. It
has 123 member states (India is not its member). The Rome Statute is multilateral treaty which
serves as ICC’s foundational and governing document. India has not signed Rome Statute. The ICC
has jurisdiction to prosecute individuals and is independent of United Nations (UN). But it may
receive case referrals from UN Security Council and can initiate prosecutions without UN action or
referral.
Note: US signed the treaty (Rome Statute) in 2000 but never ratified it, citing concerns over sovereignty,
similarly with Russia. Israel signed it for a short period but also never ratified it into law. China has not
signed it.
CISF launches mobile app for lost items at airports
March 19, 2018
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has launched its lost and found mobile applcation for
passengers at 59 airports across India. It can be downloaded from the website of Ministry of
Information and Technology. The CISF guards 59 civil airports across the country.
Key Facts
The app offers three facilities – lost and found items at airports, tracking complaints or request
status and technical consultancy in security, and fire services. Its main advantage is to help
passengers to directly register complaints and get status of their complaint immediately from
airports under its security cover. It can also be used to place a request for obtaining technical
consultancy provided by force. The app will allow passengers to upload information on lost articles
along with their travel details. It will provide passengers alert when the lost article is found.
Background
The CISF had launched ‘Lost and Found’ scheme on its website in 2015 to trace and restore items and
valuables left behind by the commuters at airports. It was able to restore property worth Rs. 50.05
crore (2017) and Rs. 5.49 crore (till March 2018) to passengers with the help of the website.
Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
The CISF is a central armed police force under the aegis of Union Ministry of Home Affairs. It was
initially established under the Central Industrial Security Force Act, 1968 to protect major
PSUs.However, it was converted to an armed force with a larger ambit under an amendment to the
Act in 1983.
Now, CISF provides security to industrial ventures and establishments, VIPs and engages in disaster
management amongst others. It also has a Fire Wing to response to fire emergencies/accidents. With
force larger than 1,65,000 it is the largest security force in the world.
Government imposes anti-dumping duty on Ofloxacin import from China
March 19, 2018
The Revenue Department in the Finance Ministry has imposed anti-dumping duty on import of
‘Ofloxacin’, a pharma product used in treatment of certain infections from China. It was imposed for
three years following recommendations of Directorate General of Anti-Dumping and Allied Duties
(DGAD) to protect domestic producers from below-cost shipments. In its probe DGAD had found that
Ofloxacin exported to India from China was below its normal value, resulting in dumping. It had
caused material injury to the domestic industry.
Ofloxacin
Ofloxacin is in class of antibiotics called fluoroquinolones. It is used to treat certain infections
including bronchitis, pneumonia and infections of skin, bladder, urinary tract, reproductive organs,
and prostate (a male reproductive gland). It works by killing bacteria that cause infections.

Anti-dumping duty
It is an import duty imposed by government on imported products which have prices less than their
normal values or domestic price. It act as a protectionist and counter import measure used by a
country under multilateral World Trade Organisation (WTO) regime to protect its domestic
producers and market from below-cost/cheap imports. The duty is aimed at ensuring fair trading
practises and creating level-playing field for domestic producers with regard to foreign producers
and exporters. It varies from product to product and from country to country. In India, anti-dumping
duty to be levied is recommended by Ministry of Commerce (i.e. by DGAD), while Finance Ministry
imposes it.
NITI Aayog releases SATH-E Roadmaps
March 19, 2018
NITI Aayog has released comprehensive roadmaps and detailed timelines for its initiative
Sustainable Action for Transforming Human Capital in Education (SATH-E) project to introduce
system-wide Governance Transformation in school education.
SATH-E project
SATH-E project aims at promoting vocational education, skill development, teacher training and
introducing technology in classrooms. It will also promote data-driven analysis to strengthen
academic monitoring across schools in the country.
It also aims to transform elementary and secondary school education across these three states. Its
roadmap refers to time-bound, goal-driven exercise that will reach its logical culmination by end of
academic year 2020.
It seeks to create role model states for education across country to facilitate qualitative and
quantitative transformation of learning outcomes. It will use innovative, external third party funding
and Public- Private- Philanthropic Partnership (PPPP) experimentation.
It will be facilitated by National Steering Group (NSG), chaired by CEO of NITI Aayog and including
Chief Secretaries of 3 states, which will continuously monitor progress, introduce course-corrections
and offer a platform for addressing issues in implementation.
Key Facts
The roadmaps will operate between 2018 to 2020. They lay out detailed interventions to be taken by
three participating states- Jharkand, Madhya Pradesh and Odisha to become ‘Role Model States’ in
school education. These roadmaps will present first-of-its-kind, customized, action-oriented
programmes, outlining interventions at individual, district and State level. They were jointly
prepared by NITI Aayog, three participating states and knowledge partners of SATH Initiatives,
Boston Consulting Group (BCG) and Piramal Foundation For Education Leadership (PFEL).
NITI Aayog
NITI Aayog is the premier policy ‘Think Tank’ of the Union Government, providing both directional
and policy inputs. It is essentially an advisory body that seeks to provide critical directional and
strategic inputs across spectrum of key elements of policy to the centre. Prime Minister is ex-officio
chairman of NITI Aayog.
C-437: Indian Coast Guard commissions interceptor boat
March 19, 2018
The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has commissioned interceptor boat ICGS C-437 at Porbandar, Gujarat
as part of its efforts to strengthen coastal security. ICGS C-437 shall be based at Jakhau under
administrative and operational control of commander Coast Guard Region (North West).
ICGS C-437
The interceptor boat is 27.8m long, has displacement capacity of 106 tonnes and has maximum speed
of 45 knots. It is capable of undertaking multifarious task such as surveillance, search and rescue,
interdiction and rendering assistance to boats and craft in distress at sea.
The boat has advanced navigational and communication equipment with capability to respond to any
maritime situation. Its induction will strengthen the security umbrella of the west coast and will help
augment patrolling, to prevent illicit activities such as infiltration, smuggling and illegal fishing.
Ptilomera nagalanda: New species of water strider found in Nagaland
March 19, 2018
Scientists from Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) have discovered new species of water strider named

Ptilomera nagalanda Jehamalar and Chandra in Nagaland. It was found in river Intanki in Peren
district of Nagaland.
This newly discovered species belongs to Ptilomera agriodes genus. It measures about 11.79 mm and
has long slender legs. It has orange with black stripes on dorsal side and pale yellowish brown ventral
part of body. The presence of black stripes on dorsal side differentiates this species from other
known species of subgenus Ptilomera. It is only found in rocky, fast flowing streams and rivers that
are not exposed to lot of sunlight. It has hair on middle legs that help insects resist strong current of
streams.
Water striders
Water striders aregroup of insects adapted to life on surface of water, using surface tension to their
advantage. Their presence serves as indicator water of water quality and also play important role in
food chain in river ecosystem as they feed on mosquito larvae.
Water striders have three pairs of legs. The front legs are relatively shorter than mid and hind legs
and used to catch and hold prey. They possess needle-like mouth parts that are used for sucking the
juice of prey. There are nearly 100 species of water striders found in India across different water
bodies such as open ocean, ponds, pools, lakes, rivers, streams etc.
With discovery of Ptilomera nagalanda, the number of species of water striders belonging to
subgenus Ptilomera has increased to six in India. These includes Ptilomera agriodes found in
peninsular India, Ptilomera laticaudata, northern and northeastern India, Ptilomera assamensis
found in northeastern India, Pltilomera occidentalis from Uttarakhand and Ptilomera tigrina found
in the Andaman islands.
President releases commemorative coins on Nabakalebar festival
March 19, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind has released Rs. 1,000 and Rs. 10 commemorative coins on the occasion
of Nabakalebar festival at a function held in Puri, Odisha. These coins were release to mark the
festival which is a symbolic recreation of sibling deities — Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Devi
Subhadra.
Nabakalebara Festival
Nabakalebara festival is an ancient ritual that is observed in the Shree Jagannath Temple at Puri,
Odisha at predefined time according to Hindu Calender. Naba means new and Kalebara is body. In
this festival, the idols of Lord Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra and Sudarshan are replaced by
new idols as it is believed that Lord Shree Jagannath adornes new body during Nabakalebara. It is
usually comes in every twelve to nineteen years based on the auspicious two months of Ashadha in a
year called as Purusottam month as per the Hindu calendar.
March 20, 2018
March 20: World Sparrow Day
March 20, 2018
The world sparrow day (WSD) is observed every year on March 20 to raise awareness of the house
sparrow and other common birds in urban environments and threats to their populations. The
rationale for celebrating the Day is to use it as a platform to underscore the need to conserve
sparrows as well as the urban biodiversity.
Declining Population
The sparrow, especially the common house sparrow is one of the oldest companions of human
beings. But its population is declining for various reasons such as destruction of its habitat, lack of
insect food for the young and the increasing microwave pollution from mobile phone towers.
Background
WSD is an international initiative by the Nature Forever Society of India (NFSI) in collaboration with
the Eco-Sys Action Foundation (France) and also numerous other national and international
organisations across the world. The first WSD was organised in different parts of the world in 2010.
In 2012, then Delhi Government had launched campaign called “Rise of Sparrows” aimed at
conservation of House Sparrow among other birds. It was also declared as the ‘state bird’ by then
Delhi for its conservation.

Bihar Governor Satya Pal Malik given additional charge as Governor of Odisha
March 20, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind has given Bihar Governor Satya Pal Malik (72) additional charge of
Odisha until regular arrangements are made. He was given additional charge after incumbent
governor S C Jamir completed his five-year tenure. The five-time Chief Minister of Nagaland S C
Jamir had taken over as Odisha governor in March 2013 after serving as governor of Goa and
Maharashtra. He had also been given additional charge of Gujarat in 2009.
Satya Pal Malik
He hails from Baghpat district in western Uttar Pradesh. He had begun his political career in 1970s as
member of UP Legislative Assembly between 1974 and 1977. He was elected from Aligarh Lok Sabha
constituency on Janata Dal ticket in 1989-90. He also served as a member of Rajya Sabha for two
terms of 1980-86 and 1986-1992. He has also served as MoS for Parliamentary Affairs and Tourism.
He has also served in several Parliamentary Committees. He was also member of Uttar Pradesh
Assembly from 1974 to 1977.
Constitutional provisions of Governor
Article 153: It says that there shall be Governor for each state. But 7th Constitutional Amendment
Act, 1956 facilitated appointment of same person as a governor for two or more states.
Article 156: Governor is appointed by President for term of 5 years but usually holds office during
pleasure of President. There is no provision of impeachment, as it happens for the president.
President of India inaugurates Festival of Innovation and Entrepreneurship
March 20, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated Festival of Innovation and Entrepreneurship (FINE) in New
Delhi. He also presented Gandhian Young Technological Innovation Awards.
Key Facts
FINE is an initiative to recognise, respect, showcase, reward innovations and foster supportive
ecosystem for innovators. The 5-day festival was organised by Rashtrapati Bhavan in association
with Department of Science and Technology (DST) and National Innovation Foundation-India (NIFI).
It was aimed to provide platform for innovators for building linkages with potential stakeholders
whose support can improve their prospects in coming years to develop their ideas into
implementable projects for the larger social good.
Gulf Shield 1 military exercise of 23 countries held in Saudi Arabia
March 20, 2018
The Gulf Shield – 1 military exercise of 23 countries including Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
member states was held in Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia. It was organised by Ministry of Defence
of Saudi Arabia. The one month exercise was largest military drill in region as it saw participation of
participation of ground, naval and air forces of participating countries.
Gulf Shield 1 military exercise
The multilateral exercise was aimed to raise military readiness of participating countries, modernise
joint mechanisms and enhance coordination and cooperation. It also aimed to exchange expertise in
fields of planning, organizing, and implementing different training activities.
It also enhanced skills of participating elements and developed their abilities to carry out symmetric
and asymmetric tasks in different fields of operations in order to secure vital goals and protect
maritime borders and corridors.
The exercise comes within armed forces joint-training plan with brotherly and friendly countries, to
exchange experiences and enhance military cooperation in order to reach the highest levels of
efficiency and combat readiness.
Airbnb inks four MoUs for promotion of tourism in North-East
March 20, 2018
Online marketplace and hospitality service provider Airbnb has signed four MoUs to boost tourism
North East India. The MoUs were singed under aegis of Ministry of Development of North East
Region (DoNER). They were signed on behalf of North Eastern Council (NEC), North East Tourism
Development Council (NETDC), North East Rural Livelihood Project (NERLP) and North Eastern
Region Community Resource Management Project (NERCORMP).

Key Facts
The MoUs aim at creating hospitality micro-entrepreneurs across key destinations in North East
India. They seek to leverage community resources and appropriate local resources based technology
for development. Under MoUs, NEC, NETDC and Airbnb had agreed to expand tourism in north east
India through Airbnb’s global platform.
They will also improve quality of homestay facilities and unique properties in NER and provide and
promote outstanding tourism resources. They will also cooperate to improve regulatory
environment for home sharing in North East.
They will also aim to generate technology-enabled livelihood opportunities in tourism and hospitality
for micro-entrepreneurs in North East India and to help low-income families monetize their existing
assets through home sharing.
Under these agreements, Airbnb will provide training to core teams of NERLP and NERCORMP,
which will further train existing and potential hosts on home sharing, responsible hosting,
hospitality standards, hygiene and basic amenities.
Varuna 2018: Indian Navy hosts bilateral naval exercise with French Navy
March 20, 2018
The Indo-French joint naval exercise Varuna-18 was held in Arabian Sea off Goa coast. It was aimed
to explore measures to facilitate operational-level interactions between their armed forces and
increase mutual cooperation, considering the common global threats.
Key Facts
Varuna-18 was conducted in three sea areas, including the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal and South
Western Indian Ocean. The exercise was conducted in three phases and included anti-submarine, air
defence and asymmetric engagement exercises.
The first phase of the exercise was held in Arabian Sea. The second phase was held off the Chennai
coast in Bay of Bengal in April 2017 and third near France’s La Reunion Island in South Western
Indian Ocean in May 2018.
This edition of exercise saw participation of French submarine and frigate Jean de Vienne from
French side. The Indian Naval was represented by destroyer INS Mumbai, frigate Trikand with their
integral helicopters, INS submarine Kalvari, P8-I and Dornier Maritime Patrol Aircraft, as well as the
Mig 29K fighter aircraft.
Background
India is major partner of France in Indian Ocean region. Maritime security is priority in India-
France’s defence and security policy, along with the fight against terrorism. Indian Navy and the
French Navy have been conducting naval exercises since 1983. These exercises were christened as
Varuna in 2001.
The last edition of this annual bilateral exercise was conducted off French coast in April 2017. The
Varuna series of exercises now has grown in scope and complexity and provides opportunity to naval
forces of both countries to increase interoperability and learn from each other’s best practices.
Indian hands over 18 locomotives to Myanmar
March 20, 2018
Indian Railways has formally handed over eighteen 1350 HP AC/DC diesel electric locomotives to
Myanma Railways. It was the first project completed in current Indian Line of Credit (LoC).
Key Facts
India and Myanmar have been long enjoying cooperation in Railway sector over the last two decades.
Moreover, Indian Railways is playing a pivotal role in developing cordial relations with the
neighboring countries.
The 18 locomotives were supplied by RITES, a PSU of Ministry of Railways and manufactured by
Diesel Locomotive Works, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh. They are fitted with micro-processor control
based system. They are extremely fuel efficient are equipped with latest features. They maximum
speed of 100 kmph and have been customised for Myanma Railways.
Most of these supplies were carried out under Indian LoC. As per agreement singed between both
countries, all locomotives were to be delivered by September 2018. They have been delivered six
months ahead of the schedule.

RITES
RITES is PSE under Ministry of Railways. It is export arm of railways undertaking various projects
worldwide. It is engaged in supply of Railway rolling stock vz. locomotives, wagons, coaches,
permanent way maintenance vehicles, maintenance of railway infrastructure, technical studies,
training of railway officials of other countries.
India, EU ink cooperation agreement to share earth observation data from each other’s satellite
March 20, 2018
India’s Department of Space (DoS) and European Union (EU) have signed cooperation agreement
related to sharing of earth observation satellite data. The agreement aims to strengthen and
stimulate cooperation on earth observation and mutual access to data from EU’s Sentinel series of
satellites and from Indian earth observation satellites. The data sharing will provide mutual benefits,
in particular in pursuit of United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
Key Facts
Under this arrangement, EU will provide India with free, full and open access to data from Copernicus
Sentinel family of satellites using high bandwidth connections from data hub to data hub. Reciprocally,
India will provide Copernicus programme and its participating states with free, full and open access
to data from ISRO’s earth observation satellites including historical data sets. This comprises data
from land, ocean and atmospheric series of ISRO’s civilian satellites (Oceansat-2, Scatsat-1, Megha-
Tropiques, SARAL, INSAT-3D, INSAT-3DR) with exception of commercial high-resolution satellites
data. The agreement also envisages technical assistance for establishment of high bandwidth
connections with ISRO sites, in particular through setting up of mirror servers, data storage and
archival facilities.
Copernicus programme
It is the world’s largest single earth observation programme directed by European Commission in
partnership with the European Space Agency (ESA). It aims at achieving global, continuous,
autonomous, high quality, wide range Earth observation capacity.
It provides wide range of applications like climate change, ocean, land and atmosphere monitoring as
well as support in forecasting, management and mitigation of natural disasters. Its full, free and open
data policy has proven its merits and allowed development of thriving user base in Europe and
beyond.
India, Hong Kong sign double tax agreement
March 20, 2018
India and Hong Kong have signed agreement for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention
of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income.
Hong Kong is former British colony and is special administrative region of China which enjoys a high
degree of autonomy under which it has an independent taxation system. It is an important financial
and trading partner of India and the absence of a treaty was seen hindrance in many ways.
Key Facts
This agreement will stimulate flow of investment, technology and personnel from India to Hong
Kong and vice versa, prevent double taxation and provide for exchange of information between two
contracting parties. It will also improve transparency in tax matters and will help curb tax evasion
and tax avoidance.
It will provide investors advantage of lower withholding tax of 10% on interest or royalties provided
they fulfil main purpose test which broadly checks that transaction is not entered specifically to
avoid taxes. It will also provide for capital gains taxation of indirect transfers. It provides that gains
from sale of shares of company deriving more than 50% of its value from property situated in
country will be taxed in that country.
This agreement will give protection against double taxation to over 1,500 Indian companies and
businesses that have presence in Hong Kong as well as to Hong Kong-based companies providing
services in India.
March 21, 2018
ICFRE and TIFAC ink MoU for supporting Forest Based Communities
March 21, 2018
The Indian Council of Forestry Research and Education (ICFRE) and Technology Information,

Forecasting & Assessment Council (TIFAC) have signed MoU to provide livelihood opportunities and
augment income of forest based communities. The MoU will be valid for period of 10 years.
Features of MoU
Prioritization of technologies developed by ICFRE in consultation with stakeholders.
Patent searching and filing in field of forestry and allied subjects.
Identify technology gaps and commercialization of technologies.
Forest based technologies extension and transfer through stakeholder consultations.
Create IPR awareness in field of forestry and environment including wood science and allied subjects for ICFRE
and its institutes.
Significance
The MoU will help to open up gate of synergy and collaboration between two organisations in areas
of forest technology, extension and commercialization to various stakeholder including farmers,
industries and others. It will assist industries to optimize utilization of forest based resources with
access of technology to different users. Through this collaboration, TIFAC will help ICFRE to refine
and up-scale the technologies developed, take technologies to end users including farmers, state
forest departments, forest based industries and forest dependent communities in more effective
manner.
TIFAC
It is autonomous council under Department of Science and Technology. It was established as a
registered Society in February 1988. It is mandated to assess state-of-art of technology and set
directions for future technological development in India in important socio-economic sectors. It is
headquartered in New Delhi.
ICFRE
ICFRE is autonomous organisation under Ministry of Environment and Forests and Climate Change
(MoEFCC). It is headquartered in Dehradun, Uttarakhand. Its mandate is to conduct forestry
research, transfer technologies developed to states and other user agencies and to impart forestry
education.
Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of Skill Development ink MoU on skill development at KVKs
March 21, 2018
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Ministry of Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship have signed MoU to conduct skill development training programmes for
agriculture and allied sector. These skill development training programmes will be conducted at
Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVKs).
Key Facts
The MoU will help to increase cooperation between both ministries and help in fulfilling
Government’s dream of “Kaushal Bharat-Kushal Bharat”. It will help to increase agricultural
productivity, post-harvest management and fair-prices to the farmers for their produce, lower risk in
agriculture and strengthen and develop other aspects of farmers’ income such as horticulture,
animal husbandry, beekeeping, dairying, fisheries etc.
Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK)
KVK is a project of ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research) for testing and transfer of
Agricultural technologies at grassroot level. These centres are located in every state. The first KVK,
on a pilot basis was established in 1974 at Puducherry under the administrative control of Tamil
Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore.
At present there are 668 KVKs, out of which 458 are under Central Agricultural University (CAU) and
State Agricultural Universities (SAU), 55 under ICAR Institutes, 35 under State Governments, 100
under NGOs, and remaining 17 under other educational institutions.
Mandate of KVK
Its mandate is of technology assessment and demonstration for its application and capacity
development. Each KVK is envisaged with following activities
On-farm testing to assess location specificity of agricultural technologies under various farming systems.
Capacity development of farmers and extension personnel to update their knowledge and skills on modern
agricultural technologies

Frontline demonstrations of technologies to establish production potential on fields.

Work as knowledge and resource centre of agricultural technologies to support initiatives of public, private and
voluntary sectors to improve agricultural economy of district.
Provide farm advisories using ICT and other media means on varied subjects of interest to farmers.
Increase self-employment opportunities among farming communities.
Government to set up Plastic Park in Jharkhand‘s Deoghar District
March 21, 2018
The Union Ministry of Chemicals & Fertilizers has approved proposal of setting up of Plastic Park in
Deoghar District, Jharkhand. The project will be set up at cost of Rs.120 crores in an area of 150 acres.
Moreover, it will also set up Central Institute for Plastic Engineering & Technology (CIPET) and
Plastic Recycling unit at Deoghar.
Key Facts
The plastic park will manufacture range of polymer products including woven sacks, moulded
furniture, water tanks, bottles, pipes mosquito nets, etc. It will have great potential for attracting
investment for setting up ecosystem for plastic industry and generate employment opportunities for
the local populace.
The project is likely to provide direct employment generation to about 6000 people and indirect
employment to over 30000 people. Jharkhand Government will facilitate land and building
infrastructure for this project and also to set up Central Institute for Plastic Engineering &
Technology (CIPET) alongside the park.
Significance
The plastic industry is growing at rapid pace and polymer consumption in India will double from
current 10 million metric tonnes to 20 million metric tonnes by 2022. The Plastic Park, CIPET and
Plastic Recycling unit at Deoghar will build an ecosystem that will encourage setting up of Plastic
Industry, thereby making it ‘Plastic Hub’ in the future.
National Cultural Audiovisual Archives becomes world’s first Trusted Digital Repository
March 21, 2018
The National Cultural Audiovisual Archives (NCAA) project of Ministry of Culture was certified as
world’s first Trusted Digital Repository as per ISO 16363:2012 standard. The certification was
granted by Primary Trustworthy Digital Repository Authorisation Body Ltd. (PTAB), United
Kingdom.
National Cultural Audiovisual Archives (NCAA)
NCAA is implemented by Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA). Its primary objective is
to identify and preserve cultural heritage of India available in audiovisual form through process of
digitization and make it accessible to the people.
The digitization and metadata standards followed for NCAA are in parity with international
standards within overall framework of OAIS (Open Archival Information System) model. They
digitization standards are as per prescribed by International Association of Sound & Audiovisual
Archives (IASA) and metadata schema is extended Dublin Core, followed by galleries, archives,
libraries, and museums worldwide.
At present, NCAA has total of 21 Partnering Institutions from across the country, covering 11
governmental and 10 non-governmental cultural organisations It has digitized over 23,000 hours of
unpublished audiovisual recordings.
NCAA pilot digital repository was developed in collaboration with Centre of Excellence for Digital
Preservation by C-DAC, Pune. It was established with and powered by DIGITĀLAYA (डिजिटालय),
developed by C-DAC Pune in compliance with OAIS Reference Model ISO 14721:2012.
Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA)
IGNCA has been set up by Government as premier research institute dedicated to holistic
understanding and expression of Indian arts in their inter and multi-disciplinary nature. Its principal
aim is to serve as major national resource centre for the arts.
It is nodal agency for data bank on art, humanities and cultural heritage. It also has been identified by
UNESCO as nodal agency for development of regional databases for South and South East Asian
countries on art, cultural heritage and life-styles using state-of-the-art technologies for

standardization, dissemination and exchange of data.

NITI Aayog, Piramal Foundation ink agreement to improve health, education in Aspirational Districts
March 21, 2018
NITI Aayog and Piramal Foundation have inked Statement of Intent (SoI) to work closely with
District Collectors and key officers of ‘Aspirational Districts’ to support their transformation in
terms of healthcare, education and nutrition. The collaboration is for four years with the option to
continue, based on mutual agreement.
Key Facts
Under the SoI with NITI Aayog, Piramal Foundation will work in close conjunction with district
administration, Central Prabhari Officers, State Prabhari Officers, state government and concerned
Central ministries to improve identified indicators by strengthening existing public systems
specifically in health and nutrition and education sectors. Piramal Foundation will also provide
support by focusing on leadership development, change management, technology integration and
implementing various innovative practices.
Background
The Union Government had selected 115 backward (aspirational) districts for rapid transformation by
2022 in line with Government’s vision to create ‘New India’. NITI Aayog had ranked these districts on
six socio-economic parameters, pertaining to health and nutrition, education, financial inclusion and
skill development, agriculture and water resources and basic infrastructure. These 115 backward
districts include 35 districts affected by Left Wing Extremists (LWE) violence, 55 districts just
affected by LWE and another 15 including districts in Jammu and Kashmir and northeast affected by
terrorism. Government has embarked upon major policy initiative for rapid transformation of these
115 districts that are lagging on specific development parameters. For this government will leverage
Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), aided by technology to bring radical transformation of these
aspirational districts.
BIRAC celebrates its 6th Foundation Day
March 21, 2018
The Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC) celebrated its sixth Foundation
Day. The observance of the day was themed around ‘Sustaining Innovation – A Market Driven Pathway’.
The event was attended by large number of dignitaries from scientific and industry sectors both
from within country and overseas.
Key Facts
Since its inception, BIRAC has supported over 650 projects, more than 500 start-ups and
entrepreneurs and 30 incubators across the country. It has resulted in development of over 100
products and technologies and 150 Intellectual property (IP) rights being generated.
It has launched over 10 flagship schemes that are supported by funding from Department of
Biotechnology (DBT), and manages 7 collaboratively funded programs with international partners. It
tries to galvanize social impact by piloting research and extension services within series of thematic
calls and other global definite initiatives to improve public health and beyond.
Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council (BIRAC)
BIRAC is not-for-profit Public Sector Enterprise (PSE) set up by DBT, Ministry of Science and
Technology to empower emerging biotech industry to undertake strategic research and innovation.
It is basically industry academia interface.
It implements its mandate through wide range of impact initiatives like providing access to risk
capital through targeted funding, technology transfer, IP management and handholding schemes
that help bring innovation excellence to Indian biotech firms and make them globally competitive.
BIRAC has initiated several schemes, networks and platforms to bridge existing gap between
industry-academia research and facilitate novel, high quality and cost-effective affordable
technologies. It has initiated partnerships with several national and global partners to collaborate
and deliver its mandate.
Mandate
Foster innovation and entrepreneurship.
Enable commercialization of discovery.

Promote affordable innovation in key social sectors.

Ensure global competitiveness of Indian enterprises.
Empowerment of start-ups & small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Contribute through partners for capability enhancement and diffusion of innovation.
Government scraps export duty on sugar
March 21, 2018
The Central Board of Excise and Customs (CBEC) under Ministry of Finance has scrapped export
duty of 20% on raw and refined sugar to boost shipments. The removal of export duty will help to
export excess sugar output in India for sugar season 2017-18. This will also prevent further price
erosion of the domestic sugar prices.
Background
Sugar output is estimated to rise sharply to 29.5 million tonnes (MT) in 2017-18 marketing year
(October-September) from 20.3 MT in the previous year. The domestic demand is 24-25 million
tonnes annually. With domestic prices falling below cost of production, there was demand scrapping
of export duty to liquidate surplus domestic stock. In February 2018, Government had doubled
import duty on sugar to 100% and restricted sale by mills to keep a checking on falling prices.
UGC grants full autonomy to 62 higher educational institutes
March 21, 2018
The University Grants Commission (UGC) approved proposal to grant full autonomy to 62 higher
educational institutions which have maintained high standards of excellence under Autonomous
Colleges Regulation. These 62 higher educational institutions include 5 central universities, 21 state
universities, 26 private universities and 10 other colleges.
Key Facts
The complete autonomy will allow these higher educational institutions to start new courses, new
departments, new programmes, skill courses, off campuses, research parks, appoint foreign faculty,
take foreign students, offer variable incentive packages and introduce online distance learning.
They can also get into academic collaboration with top five hundred universities of the world. They
can also decide their admission procedure, fee structure and curriculum, among others. They will not
have to come to UGC again and again for seeking permission as they maintained quality and
achieved a benchmark of 3.26 and above NAAC (National Accreditation and Assessment Council)
ranking.
The 10 colleges which have been granted autonomy will have full freedom but not degree awarding
powers. These colleges will be free to conduct admissions, decide curriculum, conduct exams on their
own and evaluate them and declare results. However, degrees awarded will have university name
along with theirs.
University Grants Commission (UGC)
The UGC is statutory body set up by Union government in accordance to the 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.
Government launches Sand Mining Framework to check illegal extraction
March 21, 2018
The Union Ministry of Mines has launched Sand Mining Framework to help states deal with the sand
mining issues, including demand supply deficit and illegal extraction. It was launched at the third
National Conclave on Mines & Minerals held in New Delhi.
Key Facts
The main objective of framework is to assist states in arriving at best possible options before them. It
also seeks to addresses issues of state objectives, demand-supply assessment and measures to sand
availability, allocation model, transportation and monitoring mechanism. Besides, it also includes
suggestions for faster clearances and approvals and using its interventions in complete process
chain of sand mining. It also lays emphasis on alternatives of sand i.e. manufactured sand, import of

sand etc.
Need for framework
Sand is an important component for housing, infrastructure projects and construction activities.
There have been various issues across the country in mining activities related to sand like non
availability of sand, environmental degradation, high sand prices, illegalities in sand mining etc. The
natural endowment of sand across many states is unable to meet the demand and is coupled with
unease of extraction issues, pricing and illegalities in mining. So there was need of uniform
framework to help states to frame their policies, taking into consideration their objectives,
endowments and state deployment of resources.
March 22, 2018
Cabinet approves closure of India Development Foundation of Overseas Indians
March 22, 2018
The Union Cabinet has given its approval for closure of India Development Foundation of Overseas
Indians (IDF-OI).The purpose of closure is to enhance synergies in channelizing contributions of
Indian diaspora to Government’s flagship programmes such as National Mission for clean Ganga and
Swachh Bharat Mission. It also seeks to enhance synergies, improve efficiencies and avoid
duplication of work.
Background
IDF-OI was set up by Central Government in 2008 as an autonomous not-for-profit Trust. Its
mandate was to facilitate Overseas Indian philanthropy into social and development projects in
India. The trust was chaired by External Affairs Minister. Government had added flagship
programmes such as National Mission for Clean Ganga and Swachh Bharat Mission and other social
and development projects identified by state governments to the mandate of IDF-OI. The IDF-OI had
received only Rs. 36.80 lakhs between December 2008 and March 2015 as donation from overseas
Indian community. Later in between April 2015 and March 2018, it had received Rs.10.16 crore, most
of contribution received were for projects related to National Mission for Clean Ganga and Swachh
Bharat Mission.
Cabinet approves revision of DTAA between India and Qatar
March 22, 2018
The Union Cabinet has given its approval for revision existing Double Taxation Avoidance
Agreement (DTAA) between India and Qatar. The purpose of revision is for avoidance of double
taxation and for prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income. The existing DTAA
between India and Qatar was signed in April 1999 and came into force in January, 2000. The
Features of Revised DTAA
It updates provisions for exchange of information to latest standard. It includes Limitation of Benefits (LOB)
provision to prevent treaty shopping and aligns other provisions with India’s recent treaties.
It meets minimum standards on treaty abuse under Action 6 and Mutual Agreement Procedure under Action 14 of
G-20 OECD Base Erosion & Profit Shifting (BEPS) Project to which India is participating.
Treaty Shopping
Under it, a resident of third country invests by taking advantage of fiscal treaty between India and
another contracting state. This has greatly contributed in encouraging FDI in country but has been
medium of tax evasion. The roots of Treaty shopping are in inconsistencies among international tax
regimes. If there is dissimilarity of tax systems, it can lead to distortion of investment flows. It can be
controlled by introduction of limitation of benefit clause (LOB) and other clauses which limit benefits
to residents of two countries only.
Parivara and Talawara: Cabinet approves inclusion of communities ST list in Karnataka
March 22, 2018
The Union Cabinet has given its in principle approval for inclusion of communities, namely ‘Parivara
and Talawara’ as synonym of Nayaka at in the list of Scheduled Tribes (STs) of Karnataka. This
approval fulfils long term demand of these communities for granting ST status in Karnataka. With
this inclusion, persons belonging to these communities will be eligible to get ST certificate from
Karnataka. They will also be eligible for all benefits meant for ST in state.
Background

Scheduled Tribes are notified under Article 342 of Constitution. Karnataka Government had
recommended for inclusion of Parivara and Talawara communities as synonyms of ‘Nayaka’ in list
STs of state. The first specification of STs in relation to particular State/Union territory is by notified
Order of President, after consultation with concerned state government/UT. Any subsequent
inclusion in or exclusion from and other modifications in list of STs can be made only through
amending Act of Parliament.
Cabinet approves opening of 18 new missions in Africa by 2021
March 22, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved opening of 18 new Indian Missions in Africa over four year period
from 2018-2021. Decision in this regard was taken at the Union Cabinet meeting chaired by the
Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi.
Key Facts
The 18 new Indian Missions in Africa will be opened in Cape Verde, Chad, Burkina Faso, Cameroon,
Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Guinea Bissau, Guinea, Liberia, Mauritania,
Rwanda, Sao Tome & Principe, Somalia, Sierra Leone, Swaziland and Togo. It will increase number of
Resident Indian Missions in Africa from 29 to 47.
Significance
The decision will enhance India’s diplomatic outreach and increase its footprints in resource-rich
African continent. It will allow India to engage with Indian diaspora in African countries. It is also
considered as step towards implementing vision of enhanced co-operation and engagement with
Africa. It will further enhance cooperation to implement commitments of India-Africa Forum
Summit (IAFS-III).
Cabinet approves amendments in Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016
March 22, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved proposal for moving official amendments in Surrogacy (Regulation)
Bill, 2016. Once the Bill is enacted by Parliament, National Surrogacy Board (NSB) will be constituted
at central level. The States/UTs will constitute State Surrogacy Boards (SSBs) and State Appropriate
Authorities within 3 months of notification by Central Government.
Background
India has emerged as surrogacy hub for couples from different countries and there have been
reported incidents concerning unethical practices, abandonment of children born out of surrogacy,
exploitation of surrogate mothers and rackets of intermediaries importing human embryos and
gametes. The 228th report of Law Commission of India has recommended for prohibiting
commercial surrogacy and allowing ethical altruistic surrogacy by enacting suitable legislation.
Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2016
The Bill was introduced in Lok Sabha in November 2016 which was referred to the Parliamentary
Standing Committee on Health and Family Welfare in January 2017. The committee had held various
meetings with various stakeholders for holding discussions and to receive their suggestions.
The proposed legislation proposes to regulate surrogacy in India by establishing NSB at central level
and, SSBs and Appropriate Authorities in States/UTs. It also seeks to ensure effective regulation of
surrogacy, prohibit commercial surrogacy and allow altruistic surrogacy to needy Indian infertile
couples. The Bill will apply to whole of India, except Jammu and Kashmir.
Significane of Bill
The proposed law will regulate surrogacy services in country and rein unethical practices in
surrogacy. It will prevent commercialization of surrogacy and prohibit potential exploitation of
surrogate mothers and children born through surrogacy. It will prohibit commercial surrogacy
including sale and purchase of human embryo and gametes. It will allow ethical surrogacy to needy
infertile couples on fulfillment of certain conditions and for specific purposes. It will protect rights of
surrogate mother and children born out of surrogacy will be protected.
Cabinet approves North-East Industrial Development Scheme 2017
March 22, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS), 2017 to
promote employment in North Eastern Region states including Sikkim.NEIDS is combination of the
incentives covered under the earlier two government schemes with a much larger outlay. It will have

financial outlay of Rs. 3000 crores upto March, 2020.

Purpose of NEIDS 2017
Promote industrialization: It will promote industrialization in North Eastern Region (NER) states
including Sikkim and will boost income generation and employment.
Promote employment: For this, government is incentivizing primarily MSME Sector through this
scheme. It is also providing specific incentive through scheme to generate employment.
Benefits to industrial units: It will provide various incentives and benefits to all eligible industrial
units. The overall cap for benefits under all components of incentives will be of Rs. 200 crores per
unit.
Incentives to be provided to new industrial units in NER
Central Capital Investment Incentive for Access to Credit (CCIIAC): Under it, 30% of investment in
Plant and Machinery with upper limit of Rs.5 Crore will be provided per unit.
Central Interest Incentive (Cll): It will be 3% on working capital credit advanced by eligible Banks
and Financial institutions for first 5 years from date of commencement of commercial production by
unit.
Central Comprehensive Insurance Incentive (CCII): It will provide reimbursement of 100%
insurance premium on insurance of building and Plant & Machinery for 5 years from date of
commencement of commercial production by unit.
Goods and Service Tax (GST) Reimbursement: It will be up to extent of Central Government share of
CGST and IGST for 5 years from date of commencement of commercial production by unit.
Income-Tax (IT) Reimbursement: It will be of Centre’s share of income tax for first 5 years including
year of commencement of commercial production by unit.
Employment Incentive (EI): Government will pay 3.67% of employer’s contribution to Employees
Provident Fund (EPF) in addition to its bearing 8.33% Employee Pension Scheme (EPS) contribution
of employer in Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana (PMRPY).
Transport Incentive (TI): Indian Railways will provide 20% of cost of transportation including
subsidy currently provided for movement of finished goods by rail. Inland Waterways Authority of
India (IWAI) will provide 20% of cost of transportation for finished goods for movement through
inland waterways. Airport nearest to place of production will provide 33% of cost of transportation of
air freight on perishable goods (defined by IATA) to any airport within country.
22 March: World Water Day (WWD)
March 22, 2018
The World Water Day (WWD) is observed every year on 22 March to spread message of preservation
and rationaal consumption of water. The day puts emphasis on the importance of freshwater and to
advocate for the sustainable management of freshwater resources. It focuses attention on
importance of universal access to clean water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) facilities in developing
countries. The theme this year is ‘Nature for Water’. It explores how nature can be used to overcome
the water challenges of the 21st century.
Background
The WWD was first formally proposed in Agenda 21 of United Nations Conference on Environment
and Development (UNCED) held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 1992. Later, UN General Assembly
(UNGA) accepted recommendation of UNCED and instituted this day by adopting a resolution
A/RES/47/193 in December 1992. The first World Water Day was celebrated on 22 March 1993. Since
then, it is observed annually to draw attention on the importance of freshwater and advocating for
the sustainable management of fresh water resources.
Cabinet extends term of commission on sub-categorisation of OBCs
March 22, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved second and final extension of term of Commission constituted to
examine issue of Sub-categorization of Other Backward Classes in Central List for period of twelve
weeks upto June, 2018. The Commission was constituted with approval of President under article
340 of Constitution in October, 2017. It is headed by Justice (Retd.) G. Rohini.
Key Facts
The commission was tasked to examine extent of inequitable distribution of benefits of reservation

among castes included in broad category of OBCs, especially with reference to OBCs included in the
Central list. It was also tasked to take up exercise of identifying respective castes/sub-
castes/communities synonyms in Central List of OBCs and classify them into their respective sub-
categories. It mandate was to work out mechanism, norms, criteria and parameters, in scientific
approach, for sub-categorization within such OBCs.
Since its inception, the commission has interacted with all States/UTs which have subcategorized
OBCs and State Backward Classes Commissions. It also has requisitioned data from Higher
Education Institutions regarding admission of OBCs to higher education courses as well as data
regarding recruitment of OBC persons in Government jobs to assess magnitude of inequitable
distribution of benefits of reservation among castes and communities included in Centre List of
OBCs.
Cabinet approves Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Mission
March 22, 2018
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved launch of Ayushman
Bharat-National Health Protection Mission (AB-NHPM). The scheme will integrate two on-going
centrally sponsored schemes viz. Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana (RSBY) and Senior Citizen Health
Insurance Scheme (SCHIS).
Key Features of AB-NHPM
AB-NHPM aims to target over 10 crore families belonging to poor and vulnerable population based
on Socio Economic and Caste Census 2011 (SECC) database. It will cover of Rs 5 lakh per family per
year, taking care of almost all secondary care and tertiary care procedures. There will be no cap on
family size and age in the scheme.
Benefit cover: It includes pre and post-hospitalisation expenses. It will cover all pre-existing
conditions from beginning of the policy. It will also pay defined transport allowance per
hospitalization to the beneficiary.
Cashless benefits: The scheme allows the beneficiary to take cashless benefits from any public or
private empanelled hospitals across the country. The payment for treatment will be done on package
rate which will be defined by Government in advance basis. The package rates will include all the
costs associated with treatment.
Role of state governments: They will be allowed to expand the scheme both horizontally and
vertically. Thye will be free to choose modalities for implementation. They can implement through
insurance company or directly through Trust/ Society or a mixed model.
Implementation: States/UTs will have also flexibility to modify these rates within limited bandwidth.
For beneficiaries, it will be cashless and paper less transaction. States will be required to form State
Health Agency (SHA) to implement scheme and at district level also, a structure for implementation
of the scheme will be set up
Escrow account: To ensure that funds reach SHA on time, transfer of funds from Central
Government through AB-NHPMA to State Health Agencies may be done through an escrow account
directly.
IT platform: The scheme will work in partnership with NITI Aayog to operationalise a robust,
modular and interoperable IT platform which will involve a paperless and cashless transaction.
Council: For giving policy directions and fostering coordination between Centre and States,
Ayushman Bharat National Health Protection Mission Council (AB-NHPMC) will be set up at apex
level. It will be chaired by Union Health and Family Welfare Minister.
Entitlement: It is entitlement based scheme with entitlement decided on basis of deprivation criteria
in SECC database. Different categories of families covered under scheme are Families having only
one room with kucha walls and kucha roof, families having no adult member between age 16 to 59,
female headed households with no adult male member between age 16 to 59, disabled member and no
able bodied adult member in family, SC/ST households, landless households deriving major part of
their income from manual casual labour. It will also automatically include families in rural areas
having any one of the following- households without shelter, destitute, living on alms, manual
scavenger families, primitive tribal groups or legally released bonded labour. For urban areas, 11
defined occupational categories will be entitled under scheme.

March 23, 2018

Global carbon emissions hit record high in 2017: IAE
March 23, 2018
According to International Energy Agency (IEA), the global energy-related carbon dioxide (CO2)
emissions rose to historic high of 32.5 gigatonnes in 2017. It was due to higher energy demand and
slowing of energy efficiency improvements. This large amount of global energy-related carbon
emissions comes after it was flat for three years.
Key Facts
The global energy demand rose by 2.1% in 2017 to 14,050 million tonnes of oil equivalent, more than
twice previous 2016 rate, boosted by strong economic growth. The demand raised by 0.9% in 2016
and 0.9% on average over previous 5 years.
Over 70% of global energy demands growth was met by oil, natural gas and coal, while renewables
accounted for rest. Improvements in energy efficiency also slowed in 2017. As a result of these trends,
global energy-related CO2 emissions increased by 1.4% to 32.5 gigatonnes, a record high.
This significant growth in global energy-related CO2 emissions in 2017 as it shows that current
efforts to combat climate change are far from sufficient. It is also in stark contrast to demands of
2015 Paris climate agreement, which calls for drastic cuts in global emissions to meet its ambitious
target to limit increase in global temperatures to no more than 2 degree Celcius above pre-industrial
times.
India and China accounted for 70% of global increase in energy demand, while several major
economies actually saw dips in their emissions levels – including US, UK, Mexico and Japan. The
biggest drop in emissions came from US due to higher renewables deployment.
The renewables-based electricity generation rose by 6.3% due to expansion of wind, solar and
hydropower. Renewables had highest growth rate of any energy source, meeting a quarter of world
energy demand growth.
International Energy Agency (IEA)
IEA is an inter-governmental organization established in 1974 as per framework of the Organisation
for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). It was established in the wake of the 1973 oil
crisis after the OPEC cartel had shocked the world with a steep increase in oil prices. Presently it has
30 member countries including India. It is headquartered in Paris, France.
Its prime focus is on the “3Es” of effectual energy policy: energy security, economic development and
environmental protection. It also seeks to promote alternate energy sources (including renewable
energy), rational energy policies and multinational energy technology co-operation. It acts as energy
policy advisor to 29 member countries and also non-member countries like China and Russia.
Fluorimeter: DAE develops device to measure uranium traces in water
March 23, 2018
The Raja Ramanna Centre for Advanced Technology (RRCAT), an Indore-based unit of Department of
Atomic Energy (DAE) has developed an instrument called Fluorimeter, to measure traces of uranium
in water.
The device is capable of examining traces of uranium in sample of water from 0.1 PPB (Parts-per-
billion) unit to 100 PPB. It can be easily taken anywhere and water can be taken from any source for
testing to instantly reveal if uranium traces present in water.
It costs around Rs 1 lakh. For mass production of this instrument, DAE has transferred its technology
to its other unit, Electronics Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL). The device will be especially helpful in
areas like Punjab where uranium traces in water sources have been found to be at dangerous levels.
Uranium Pollution
Uranium is a radioactive element. The Atomic Energy Regulatory Board (AERB) has fixed
tpermissible radiological limit to 60 PPB of uranium concentration for drinking water. It is advisable
to people to avoid using water from sources where uranium traces are more than fixed limit.
Drinking water with high levels of uranium traces increases radiological and chemical risks to
human health. It may cause thyroid cancer, blood cancer, depression and other serious ailments.
Parliament passes Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017
March 23, 2018
The Parliament has passed Payment of Gratuity (Amendment) Bill, 2017 to empower government to

fix period of maternity leave and tax-free gratuity amount with an executive order. The Bill seeks to
amend Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972 on two issues related to maternity leave and ceiling of gratuity
payable to an employee.
Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972
It allows for payment of gratuity to employees in any establishment, factory, mine, oilfield,
plantation, port, railways, company, or shop employing 10 or more workers. Under it, employees are
paid gratuity if they have provided at least 5 years of continuous service at time of termination.
Gratuity is calculated based on 15 days of wages for each year of continuous and complete service,
subject to a ceiling.
The Bill empowers central government to notify period of maternity leave eligible for qualifying as
continuous service and determine amount of gratuity available to employees. The maximum
maternity leave, for the purpose of calculating continuous service under Act, was based on maternity
leave provided under the Maternity Benefit Act, 1961. The Bill removes the reference to 12 weeks in
Maternity Benefit Act, 1961 and empowers central government to notify the maximum maternity
leave. Under the Act, maximum maternity leave was 12 weeks and was changed to 26 weeks by
Maternity Benefit (Amendment) Act, 2017.
The Bill removes the existing ceiling of Rs 10 lakh amount of gratuity payable to an employee and
states that the ceiling may be notified by the central government. It will allow revision of the limit
from time to time with the increase in wage and inflation and future pay commissions. The
implementation of 7th Central Pay Commission, has increased ceiling gratuity for Central
Government employees from Rs. 10 lakh to Rs. 20 lakh.
Raja Ravi Varma’s painting on Tilottama fetches over Rs.5 crore at New York auction
March 23, 2018
Renowned Indian painter Raja Ravi Varma’s untitled painting of Tilottama was sold for $795,000
(around Rs 5 crore) at Sotheby’s Modern and Contemporary South Asian art auction in New York.
The winning bid was made by anonymous private collector.
Key Facts
The 20 x 13 and quarter inch oil on canvas masterpiece was created by Ravi Varma. Tilottama, as
name suggests is painting of celestial nymph (apsara) from Indian mythology depicted partially
undressed in red saree, flying to heavens. In the painting, her one hand is raised and other holding
together her floating saree.
Varma’s painting portrays apsara’s descent from the skies to earth is said to be inspired from Venus
who was embodiment of female beauty. The artist strove to impart the extreme desirability that led
to demon brothers’ downfall.
According to Hindu mythology, Tilottama was created at Brahma’s request to destroy two demon
brothers Sunda and Upasunda, who could not be killed by anyone except themselves. Legend has it
that two brothers were so captivated by beauty of apsara, that they fought over her and ended up
killing each other.
Raja Ravi Varma (April 1848- October 1906)
Raja Ravi Varma is considered one of the greatest painter in history of Indian art of 20th century for
number of aesthetic and broader social reasons. He hailed from princely state of Tranvancore and
was patronised by royal family for long time.
His art works are held to be among best examples of fusion of European techniques with purely
Indian sensibility. His paintings employed latest European academic art techniques of day and
continuing tradition and aesthetics of Indian art.
He was well-known for using mythological characters and bringing them alive through his pairings.
He painted beautiful scenes from Nala and Damayanti, Mahabharata, Ramayana etc. He was awarded
Kaiser i Hind Gold Medal by then British Government. His famous works include Shakuntala, Jatayu
struck by Ravana.
He and had made his paintings available to masses in form of lithographs. The dissemination of his
artworks helped the common man to appreciate art, a hobby generally reserved for upper class
during his period. His lithographs further helped to spread word about artist’s works, making him a

household name in the country.

Despite fame and recognition, only 64 works of Raja Ravi Varma have been auctioned in over three
decades. In March 2017, Sotheby’s reportedly sold Ravi Varma’s (Untitled) Damayanti for $1.2 million.
Further, auction house Pundole’s also had sold his masterpiece Radha in Moonlight for Rs. 23 crore.
44 African countries sign agreement to establish African Continental Free Trade Area
March 23, 2018
The 44 African countries from total 55 members of African Union (AU) have signed agreement to
create African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), one of the world’s largest free trade blocs. The
agreement was signed at a summit held in Kigali, Rwanda.
The signed AfCFTA agreement contains legal framework for free trade area. It will come into force
after it is ratified by individual countries through their respective domestic processes. 10 countries
including Nigeria, Africa’s largest economy and most populous country have refused to sign the
agreement.
African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA)
AfCFTA will bring together 1.2 billion people with combined gross domestic product (GDP) of more
than $2 trillion from entire continent of Africa comprising 55 countries. The continental trade bloc
aims to remove barriers to trade, like tariffs and import quotas, allowing the free flow of goods and
services between its members. It also seeks to liberalise services and aims to tackle so-called non-
tariff barriers which hamper trade between African countries, such as long delays at borders. It will
help in creating single continental market for goods and services and boost trade between African
countries. It will boost commerce, growth and employment. The free trade area may also will free
movement of people and even have single currency in future. It will also make Africa more
competitive outwardly. Once AfCFTA becomes reality, it will be largest free-trade area in terms of
participating countries since the formation of the World Trade Organization (WTO).
Background
African heads of government agreed to establish a continental free trade area in 2012 and started
negotiations in 2015 to boost intra-Africa trade. Intra-African trade is relatively limited and it is
made up only 10.2% of continent’s total trade in 2010. Within Africa, 43% goods traded are
manufactured products. Between 2010 and 2015, fuels represented more than half of Africa’s exports
to non-African countries, while manufactured goods made up only 18% of exports to rest of the
world.
India’s first sign language dictionary of 3000 words launched
March 23, 2018
The Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment has launched India’s first Sign Language Dictionary
of 3000. The dictionary has been developed by Indian Sign Language Research & Training Centre
(ISLR&TC) under Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (DEPwD). This
dictionary is available in both print and video formats. It will help to bring uniformity in sign
languages which are used by differently abled people especially people with hearing or speech
impairment.
Indian Sign Language (ISL) Dictionary
ISL dictionary consists of various categories of words for example legal terms, medical terms,
academic terms, technical terms and daily use words. It also contains videos with subtitles and
focuses on providing more information in ISL. It has English and Hindi terms to help deaf children to
learn English. The ISL dictionary consists words of five categories:
Everyday Terms: It includes terms that are used in everyday communication. The videos contain the sign and
corresponding English term.
Legal Terms: It includes videos for 237 legal terms help explain complicated legal terminologies that are used in
various legal situations.
Academic Terms: It contains 229 videos for 212 terms to help deaf children understand complex academic
concepts. It has words from various subjects like Physics, Geography, Biology, Maths, etc.
Medical Terms: It includes 200 sign videos for 200 medical terms will help deaf community to better understand
medical terminology used in hospitals and in medical situations.
Technical Terms: It includes 206 videos of sign and explanations in Indian Sign Language (ISL) for 204 technical

terms that are used in vocational training or in computer courses.

Significance
As per 2011 census, there are 50,71,007 deaf people and 19, 98,535 with speech disability in India. The
ISL Dictionary aims to remove communications barriers between deaf and provide more information
in ISL. It also aims to give deaf people constitutional right to speech and opportunity of freedom of
expression and also bringing them into the main stream of society. Soon many new words will be
added in it.
MCX launches world’s first brass futures contracts
March 23, 2018
India’s largest commodities exchange platform, Multi Commodity Exchange of India Limited (MCX)
launched world’s first brass futures contracts. It will facilitate brass stakeholders to hedge their price
risk.
MCX Brass futures will be the first non-ferrous contract with compulsory delivery option. Its price
will be quoted as per rate at ex-warehouse Jamnagar (delivery centre) inclusive of taxes and duties.
Significance of MCX Brass futures
It will provide its stakeholders with more organised and robust price discovery platform. It will also
help them to use national level benchmark price as ready reference. It will enable them to mitigate
their price risk. It will lead to best price discovery for brass, which is of key relevance to its
stakeholders including importers, exporters, manufacturers, refiners, and processors among others
in country, who are looking to hedge their price exposure.
Brass Industry
Brass is metallic alloy of copper (55-60%) and zinc (40-45%) with small amounts of lead and iron. It is
used in industries like electrical appliance, pump parts, marine engines, switch gears, sanitary ware,
automobiles and defence.
The estimated annual production of brass in India is approximately between 100,000-150,000 tonne,
which includes production through primary metal and recycled brass. India is largest exporter of
finished brass products. India imports huge quantities of brass scrap from US, Middle East, Africa
and Europe which is then separated and recycled to make brass.
Out of the 5,000 small and medium units (SMEs) producing brass in the country, about 3,000 are
located at Jamnagar, Gujarat which accounts for 80% of brass produced in India. The rest of the
companies are spread across Moradabad (Uttar Pradesh) and Jagadhari (Haryana).
Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX)
MCX is country’s first listed commodity futures exchange that facilitates online trading, and clearing
and settlement of commodity futures transactions, thereby providing platform for risk management.
It was launched in November 2003 and operates within regulatory framework of Forward Contracts
Regulation Act, 1952 (FCRA, 1952) under SEBI.
MCX offers futures trading in bullion, ferrous and non-ferrous metals, energy, and a number of
agricultural commodities (mentha oil, cardamom, potatoes, palm oil and others). Globally, MCX ranks
no. 1 in silver, no. 2 in natural gas, no. 3 in crude oil and gold in futures trading.
BrahMos missile with indigenous seeker successfully test-fired for first time
March 23, 2018
Supersonic cruise missile BrahMos was successfully flight-tested for first time with indigenously
developed seeker at Pokhran test range, Rajasthan. So far, seeker, a critical technology in missiles
was imported from Russia. During the test missile with India-made seeker flew in its designated
trajectory and target with pin-point accuracy.
Seeker
The seeker technology determines the accuracy of missile and is closely guarded secret. The
indigenous seeker was developed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, in collaboration with
other DRDO labs. It is considered as significant milestone in indigenous missile technology and
would reduce import dependence.
BrahMos Missile
It is supersonic cruise missile developed by joint-venture between Russia’s Mashinostroyenia and
India’s DRDO. It has been named after two rivers Brahmaputra and Moskva (river in western Russia).
It is two-stage missile, the first one being solid and the second one ramjet liquid propellant. It

operates on ‘fire and forget principal’. It is capable of being launched from land, sea, sub-sea and air
against sea and land targets.
It is capable of carrying warhead of 300 kilogram (both conventional as well as nuclear) and has top
supersonic speed of Mach 2.8 to 3 (roughly three times speed of sound). It is hailed as the world’s
fastest anti-ship cruise missile in operation. Its range was initially capped at 290 km as per
obligations of Missile Technology Control Regime (MTCR). Since India’s entry into the elite club, its
range was extended to 450 km and plan is to increase it to 600km.
It is self-propelled guided missile that sustains flight through aerodynamic lift. It is claimed that the
missile has strike accuracy rate of 99.99% and it follows a variety of trajectories like high, high-low,
low, surface-skim etc. It has been already inducted in Army and Navy. The air-launched version of
missile was test-fired recently for the first time from modified Su-30MKI aircraft.
Videsh Aaya Pradesh ke Dwaar: MEA launches engagement programme with Regional Media
March 23, 2018
The External Publicity and Public Diplomacy Division of Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) launched
‘Videsh Aaya Pradesh ke Dwaar’, an engagement programme with regional media in Hyderabad,
Telangana. The initiative aims enhance public diplomacy outreach of MEA and its commitment to
take objectives of foreign policy to people at grassroot-level.
Videsh Aaya Pradesh ke Dwaar
The initiative involves MEA’s engagement with regional media based in different cities across the
countru to communicate foreign policy priorities in simple terms. It also seeks to highlight benefits
accruing to common people through its diplomatic efforts and bring domain of foreign policy closer
to people. It is also intends to create pool of media professionals interested in foreign policy and
guide them on connecting with MEA.
March 24, 2018
First National Conference on Drug Law Enforcement held in New Delhi
March 24, 2018
The first-ever National Conference on Drug Law Enforcement was held in New Delhi. It was
inaugurated by Minister of State for Home Affairs Hansraj Gangaram Ahir. The 2-day conference
was organized by Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Ministry of Home Affairs.
Key Facts
More than 50 State and Central law enforcement agencies involved in combating drug trafficking
had participated in this Conference. The working sessions of conference focused on various topics
such as ‘Wider context of drug trafficking in India’, ‘Financial Investigations’ and ‘Foreign & Cyber
Investigations’. During these sessions various agencies gave presentations. United Nations (UN) and
other foreign law enforcement agencies also shared their experiences.
Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB)
NCB is nodal drug law enforcement and intelligence agency of India. It is responsible for fighting
drug trafficking and the abuse of illegal substances. It functions under Ministry of Home Affairs
(MHA) and is headquartered in New Delhi.
It was established in March 1986 to enable full implementation of Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic
Substances Act, 1985 and fight its violation through Prevention of Illicit Trafficking in Narcotic
Drugs and Psychotropic Substances Act, 1988.
Mandate
Fight drug trafficking on all-India level.
Provide resources and training to personnel of India’s law enforcement agencies in fighting drug trafficking
Monitor India’s frontiers to track down points where smuggling activities take place with foreign traffickers.
Work in close cooperation with Customs and Central Excise, State Police Department, Central Bureau of
Investigation (CBI), Central Economic Intelligence Bureau (CEIB) and other Indian intelligence and law
enforcement agencies both at the national and states level.
Indian Navy’s warship INS Ganga decommissioned
March 24, 2018
Indian Navy’s indigenously built warship INS Ganga (F22) was decommissioned in Mumbai,
Maharashtra after over three decades of service. The warship was commissioned in December 1985

and had represented big step forward in India’s indigenous warship building capability. The
decommissioning ceremony was attended by several officers and men, many now retired, who had
served on board ship.
INS Ganga
INS Ganga (F22) was a Godavari-class guided-missile frigate of the Indian Navy. It was built by
Mazagon Dock Limited, Mumbai and was commissioned into Indian Navy on 30 December 1985. The
Godavari class was first indigenous warship design and development initiative of Indian Navy.
The warship along with Shakti and INS Godavari were deployed to Somalian capital Mogadishu in
December 1994 to support withdrawal of Indian Army’s 66 Brigade, including the 2nd Battalion,
Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry (2 JAKLI).
Canadian mathematician Robert P. Langlands wins Abel Prize 2018
March 24, 2018
Canadian mathematician Robert P. Langlands (81) has won prestigious Abel Prize 2018 for his
visionary programme connecting representation theory to number theory. He will receive the award
from Norway’s King Harald V at an award ceremony in Oslo in May 2018.
Robert Phelan Langlands
He was born on October 6, 1936 at New Westminster, British Columbia, Canada. He is best known as
founder of Langlands program, a vast web of conjectures and results connecting representation
theory and automorphic forms to study of Galois groups in number theory. He is emeritus professor
and occupies Albert Einstein’s office at Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton.
Abel Prize
It is awarded annually by Norwegian Academy of Science and Letters to one or more outstanding
mathematicians. The award was established by Government of Norway in 2001 and awarded
annually since 2003. It is named after 19th century Norwegian mathematician Niels Henrik Abel. It is
one of world’s top prizes in mathematics and is considered to be maths equivalent of Nobel Prize,
which has no prize for mathematics.
It carries monetary award of 6 million Norwegian kroner (NOK) (around 600,000 Euros). Indian
American mathematician R. Srinivasa Varadhan was bestowed with this award in 2007 for his
fundamental contributions to probability theory and for creating a unified theory of large deviation.
NAIPUNYA RATHAM: Andhra Pradesh Government launches World on Wheels
March 24, 2018
Andhra Pradesh Government launched multi-utility vehicle NAIPUNYA RATHAM or World on
Wheels to bring technology to remote corners. It was launched at State Secretariat in capital
Amaravathi by Chief Minister N.Chandrababu Naidu.
Key Facts
The Naipunya Rathaams as part of Smart village Smart Ward Programme will facilitate and look to
improve digital literacy, digital skills and create awareness on various government schemes that are
underway in Andhra Pradesh. It is aimed at taking technology and innovation to the remote corners
of Andhra Pradesh.
The first phase of Naipunya Ratham will cover 13 districts and 28 smart villages in collaboration with
Hewlett Packard (HP), Entrepreneurship Development Institute of India (EDII) and Guide Foundation
for Development. State Government will soon roll out 12 more Naipunya Rathams by May 2018.
As part of it, world on wheels Lab, a 20-seater bus enabled digital facilities and learning lab equipped
with smart technology gadgets as well as with e-learning tools like HP Classroom Manager, HP Video
Book and HP Life will travel across rural areas of the state.
March 24: World Tuberculosis Day
March 24, 2018
The World Tuberculosis Day (WTD) is observed every year on March 24 to raise public awareness
about the global epidemic of Tuberculosis (TB) and efforts to eliminate the disease. WTD is observed
to commemorate discovery of Mycobacterium tuberculosis, bacillus (bacteria) causing TB on 24th
March, 1882 by German microbiologist Robert Koch. This discovery had opened the way towards
diagnosing and curing TB.
The theme of World TB Day 2018 is “Wanted: Leaders for a TB-free world”. It focuses on building
commitment to end TB, not only at political level with Heads of State and Ministers of Health, but at

all levels from Governors, Mayors, parliamentarians and community leaders to people affected with
TB, civil society advocates, health workers, doctors or nurses, NGOs and other partners.
This is critical theme, given political importance of upcoming United Nations General Assembly
high-level meeting on TB this year, which will bring together Heads of State in New York. It follows
on from a very successful Ministerial Conference on Ending TB in Moscow on 16-17 November, 2017
which resulted in high-level commitments from Ministers and other leaders from 120 countries to
accelerate progress to end TB.
Tuberculosis (TB)
TB is disease caused by bacteria “Mycobacterium tuberculosis” that most often affect the lungs. The
disease is spread from person to person through the air. It commonly affects the lungs but can also
affect other parts of the body. It is the second biggest killer disease worldwide next only to HIV/AIDS.
World Tuberculosis Day (WTD) is one of eight official global public health campaigns observed by the
World Health Organization (WHO). Observance of the day provides opportunity to shine the
spotlight on disease and mobilize political and social commitment for accelerate progress to end TB.
GSL delivers second AOPV to Sri Lankan Navy Ahead of Schedule
March 24, 2018
The Goa Shipyard Ltd (GSL) has delivered second Advanced Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV) to Sri
Lanka Navy. This was overall the fourth Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) delivered in the current
financial year.
Key Facts
The vessel is the largest and most advanced ship in Sri Lankan Navy fleet. This is the fourth Offshore
Patrol Vessel (OPV) delivered by GSL in current financial year.
The keel of the vessel was laid in May 2015 and was launched in May 2017. It was completed and
delivered vessel 25 Days ahead of contractual schedule. With this, GSL has succeeded in reducing
build period of 2,500 Tonnes OPV to nearly three years from over five years taken till about three
years ago.
SLOPV Project
The SLOPV Project for building two large size ships is one of the most significant defence
cooperation between India and Sri Lanka. The project is one of the largest export contracts being
executed by India’s state-owned shipbuilder GSL for any friendly country. SLNS Sayurala was the
first AOPV of the series delivered by GSL in July 2017 ahead of contractual schedule.
Sri Lanka Navy’s Maritime Strategy envisages 20 naval ships including OPVs by year 2025.
According to plan, Sri Lankan Navy will purchase two more OPVs, two fast missile vessels, two
frigates, and two corvettes. With the acquisition of two AOPV from India, Sri Lankan Navy now has
five vessels, of similar type, namely SLNS Sayura (Sukanya class P 620), SLNS Samudura (formerly of
US Coast Guard P 621), SLNS Sagara (Vikram class P622) and SLNS Sayurala (P 623). Four other naval
ships including two fast missile vessels and two fast patrol boats received from Australia are also in
service with Sri Lankan Navy.
Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL)
GSL is one of India’s best shipyards and designated mini-Ratna by the Union Government. It is
located in Vasco da Gama, Goa. It was established in 1957, originally by colonial government of
Portuguese in India, as the “Estaleiros Navais de Goa” to build barges to be used in Goa’s growing
mining industry. In the wake of Portugal’s defeat and unconditional surrender to India following 1961
Indian annexation of Goa, GSL was requisitioned to manufacture warships for Indian Navy and
Indian Coast Guard (ICG).
ISRO–BHEL tie up for Production of Space Grade Lithium-Ion Cells
March 24, 2018
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has entered into Technology Transfer Agreement (TTA)
with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) to transfer technology for manufacturing space grade
Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) cells.
The technology transfer will enable BHEL to produce space grade Li-Ion cells which can meet
country’s space programme requirements. It can also be adopted to cater Li-Ion cell requirement for
other national needs.

Key Facts
The ISRO uses Li-Ion batteries as power sources for satellite and launch vehicle applications due to
their high energy density, reliability and long cycle life. ISRO’s Vikram Sarabhai Space Centre (VSSC)
at Thiruvananthapuram has successfully developed technology to produce space grade Li-ion cell. It
also has demonstrated performance of cell under various testing conditions and established its cycle
life characteristics in accelerated mode. These Li-Ion cells are currently being used for various
satellite and launch vehicle applications.
Li-Ion battery
Lithium-ion battery or Li-ion battery is type of rechargeable battery that contains several cells. Each
cell consists of cathode, anode and electrolyte, a separator between electrodes and current collectors.
In it, lithium ions move from negative electrode to positive electrode during discharge and back
when charging. Li-ion battery use intercalated lithium compound as one electrode material.
Benefits of Lithium-Ion (Li-Ion) battery
The lithium-ion battery is light weighted and is one-third the weight of lead acid batteries. It is
nearly 100% efficient in both charging and discharging as compared to lead battery which has 70%
efficiency. It completely discharges i.e. 100% as compared to 80% for lead acid.
The rechargeable lithium-ion battery has life cycle of 5000 times or more compared to just 400-500
cycles in lead acid. It also maintains constant voltage throughout the entire discharge cycle whereas
voltage in lead acid battery drops consistently throughout its discharge cycle. It is much cleaner
technology and is safer for environment as it does not have environmental impact as lead acid
battery.
ISRO postpones launch of Chandrayaan-2 mission
March 24, 2018
The Indian Space and Research Organisation (ISRO) has postponed launch of India’s second lunar
mission ‘Chandrayaan-2’ from April 2018 to October-November 2018 as experts have suggested more
tests. It will be launched on board of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk III (GSLV-F10).
Chandrayaan 2
Chandrayaan 2 is India’s second mission to Moon and is advanced version of previous Chandrayaan-1
mission (launched in 2008). It has been developed indigenously by ISRO. It consists of Orbiter,
Lander and Rover configuration. In this mission, ISRO will for first time attempt to land a rover on
moon’s south pole.
The spacecraft (orbiter) weighs around 3,290 kg and it will orbit around moon and perform objectives
of remote sensing moon. Once GSLV-F10 putspacecraft in 170 km x 20,000 km elliptical orbit, orbiter
will be manoeuvred towards 100-km lunar orbit by firing thrusters and then lander housing the
rover will separate from orbiter.
The six wheeled rover will move on lunar surface and collect soil or rock samples for on-site chemical
analysis to gather scientific information on lunar topography, mineralogy, elemental abundance,
lunar exosphere and signatures of hydroxyl and water-ice. The data will be relayed to Earth through
orbiter. The rover will move around landing site in semi-autonomous mode as decided by the ground
commands.
Note: The soft-landing on the lunar surface of the moon will be most complex part of Chandrayaan 2
mission. Only the US, Russia and China have been able to soft-land spacecraft on lunar surface.

Krem Puri: World’s longest sandstone cave discovered in Meghalaya

March 24, 2018
The world’s longest sandstone cave named Krem Puri was discovered near Laitsohum village in
Mawsynram area in East Khasi Hills district of Meghalaya. The cave is 24,583 metres (24.5 km) in
length and is known for its complex cave systems hidden under its undulating hills. It was
discovered in 2016 but its actual length was found during expedition to measure and map it by
Meghalaya Adventurers’ Association (MAA)
Krem Puri
Krem Puri underground cavern is more than 6,000 metres longer than world record-holder Cueva
Del Saman in Edo Zulia, Venezuela, a quartzite sandstone cave measuring 18,200 metres (18.2km).
This sandstone cave is also India’s second longest cave in general category after limestone Krem Liat
Prah-Umim-Labit system measuring little over 31 km in Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya. Krem Puri cave
system also has fossils of dinosaurs, especially Mosasaurus, a giant reptile that lived 66-76 million
years ago.
Background
There are whereabouts of more than 1,650 caves and cave locations in Meghalaya, of which over
1,000 have been explored or partially explored. According to official data, the northeastern state has
491km of surveyed caves and many more are waiting to be discovered. Krem in Khasi language
means cave. Mawsynram is known as wettest place on earth for its record-breaking rainfall.
Earth Hour 2018 observed across the world
March 24, 2018
The twelfth edition of Earth Hour was observed across the world on 24 March 2018 to take a global
call on climate change. To mark this day, cities worldwide turned their lights off for one hour from
8:30 pm to 9:30 pm local time.
Give Up to Give Back Initiative
On the occasion of Earth Hour, World Wide Fund (WWF)-India made strong pitch for “Give Up to
Give Back”. This initiative aims to inspire organisations, institutions and individuals to make choice
to curb some habits, practices and lifestyles that burden our lives and environment. It includes
taking steps like giving up giving up fossil fuels, single-use plastics, giving up lonely car rides for
your employees, give up e-waste.
Earth Hour

Earth Hour is people’s movement inspiring individuals to take stand against climate change. It is
organised by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF) with an aim to enable harmonious existence of
human and wildlife. It aims at encouraging people to turn off their non-essential equipments to
promote conservation and sustainable energy. Its goal is to raise awareness for sustainable energy
use and create a more environmentally sustainable lifestyle. The first Earth Hour was held on March
31, 2007 in Sydney, Australia. Now it has become world’s largest grassroots movement for the
environment, inspiring millions of people to take action for our planet and nature.
March 25-26, 2018
JS Rajput nominated as India’s representative to Executive Board of UNESCO
March 26, 2018
The Ministry of Human Resource Development has nominated former NCERT director JS Rajput as
India’s representative to Executive Board (EXB) of United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
JS Rajput
Professor JS Rajput is known for his contributions in reforms in school education and teacher
education. He has held several assignments which include Professor in NCERT, 1974, Principal of
Regional Institute of Education Bhopal 1977-88, Joint Educational Adviser, Ministry of Human
Resource Development, Chairman, National Council for Teacher Education (NCTE) 1994-99 and
Director of the NCERT (1999-2004).
He had proposed valuable changes in school education curriculum as Director, NCERT popularly
known as five Sai values: Truth, Peace, Nonviolence, Righteous Conduct (Dharma) and Love. He has
published research papers in several specialized areas in education, guided doctoral level researches
and has authored several books.
His association with UNESCO and other international agencies extends over three decades. He was
invited by UNESCO in April-May 2005 to participate in Evaluation of UNESCO International Center
for Technical and Vocational Education, UNEVOC, Bonn, Germany. He has completed UNESCO
project for Bremen University, Germany in 2007-08.
UNESCO acknowledged his contributions by selecting him for Prestigious Jan Amos Comenius
Medal for outstanding contributions in research and innovations in 2004. He received this Award in
July 2009. He was awarded Maharishi Ved Vyas national Award by MP Government for lifelong
contributions in Education. He was awarded Padma Shri in 2009.
Executive Board (EXB) of UNESCO
The EXB is one of the constitutional organs of UNESCO and is elected by the General Conference. It
has four-year term and 58 seats. The board examines work for UNESCO and the corresponding
budget estimates. In practice, it is main organ responsible for all policies and programmes of
UNESCO.
March 25: International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave
Trade
March 26, 2018
The International Day of Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade is
observed every year on March 25 across the world. Observance of this day honours and remembers
those who suffered and died as consequence of transatlantic slave trade. It also aims at raising
awareness about dangers of racism and prejudice Transatlantic slave trade which had taken place
over span 400 years is considered as worst violation of human rights in history in which more than
15 million men, women and children were victims. The 2018 theme was ‘Remember Slavery: Triumphs
and Struggles for Freedom and Equality’. It celebrates freedom of African descent people from slavery.
It also acknowledges challenges faced by people in movement towards freedom and equality.
Background
The International Day of Remembrance of Victims of Slavery and the Transatlantic Slave Trade was
instituted by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by adopting a resolution in 2007. It was first
observed in 2008 and since then it is observed annually. Same year, UNGA had established
Remember Slavery Programme through its resolution 62/122 to honour memory of victims of slavery
and transatlantic slave trade. The programme aims to raise awareness of dangers of racism and

prejudice organizing educational activities throughout year such as film screenings, exhibition, tours
of the Permanent Memorial, roundtable discussions etc. It is managed by Education Outreach
Section of Department of Public Information’s Outreach Division of UN.
Print Biennale India 2018: First International Exhibition of Graphic Prints held in New Delhi
March 26, 2018
The first-ever International Print Biennale, an International Exhibition of Graphic Prints was held in
New Delhi. It was organised by Lalit Kala Akademi.
Key Facts
The event comprised displaying of total 200 original prints are created by Indian and international
artists of impeccable competence. An exhibition Eminent Printmakers of India showcasing master
Indian printmakers was also held on sidelines of it. The international participants from USA, UK, Sri
Lanka, Italy, Mexico, China, Israel, Sweden, Lithuania, Poland, Argentina, Greece, Nepal, Bangladesh,
and Mauritius also had participated in the event. Total 988 entries at the national level were received
of which 127 were chosen for display.
Lalit Kala Akademi
It is also called as National Academy of Art. It is India’s national academy of fine arts. It is
autonomous organisation It was established in 1954 to promote and propagate understanding of
Indian art, in and outside the country. It provides scholarships and fellow program and sponsors and
organises exhibitions in India and overseas. It publishes bilingual journal. It is funded by Ministry of
Culture. Its headquartered are at Ravindra Bhawan, New Delhi.
Chhattisgarh wins National Water Digest Award
March 26, 2018
Chhattisgarh was awarded National Water Digest Award for Water Conservation-Diversion and
increasing the irrigation capacity in the state. The award was presented to Chhattisgarh Water
Resources Department (CWRD) on the occasion ‘World Forestry Day’ (observed on March 21) in New
Delhi.
Key Facts
This is first time that CWRD was given national Award during the past 17 years. Chhattisgarh
bagged this award for increasing irrigation capacity, water management -water diversion, water
conservation, community participation and efforts towards inter-linking of rivers, better techniques
utilized in irrigation facilities.
National Water Digest Award
The Award is presented every year by globally renowned magazine ‘Water Digest’ which focuses
mainly on water resources. The award is given in association with Central Water Resources River
Development (CWRRD) and Ganga Cleaning Ministry, United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Central Water Board (CWB), Central Water Commission (CWC)
and Ganga Purification National Mission. The award is recognised by UNESCO.
Ministry of Culture organises Madhavpur Mela in Gujarat
March 26, 2018
The Union Ministry of Culture for the first time had organised Madhavpur Mela in Madhavpur Ghed
in Porbandar District of Gujarat under the banner of Ek Bharat Shrestha Bharat. Its purpose is to
bring various parts of country especially the North-East, close to each other.
Key Facts
The four day cultural extravaganza saw vibrant cultural trail of art, dance, music, poetry, story-
telling and folk drama from Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and other north-eastern states with an aim
to integrate the rich cultures of two regions. It also witnessed for first time the magnificent
performances from north-east, especially Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur.
Troupes from Assam performed Rukmini-Haran, a popular folk theatre of the region. Musical troupe
from Manipur sang songs related to Rukmini in Khullong Ishei and Nat genŕe. Dance-dramas based
on Rukmini-Krishna legends from Arunachal Pradesh and Manipur and folk dance of Idu Mishmi
tribe from Arunachal were also displayed.
Background
Madhavpur Mela of Gujarat shares its connect to Mishmi Tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. The tribe
traces its ancestry to legendary King Bhishmak and through him to his daughter Rukmini and Lord

Krishna.
Madhavpur Ghed is small but culturally significant village. According to folklore, it is place where,
Lord Krishna married Rukmini, the daughter of King Bhishmaka. Madhavpur lies on the seashore,
close to Porbandar. 15th century Madhavrai temple marks the site. Madhavpur Mela is
commemorated b cultural fair held every year, commencing on Ram Navami. As part of the
celebrations, a colorful chariot carrying idol of Krishna circumnavigates village and festivities usually
continue for five days.
Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
It was announced by Government 31st October, 2015 on the occasion of the 140th birth anniversary
of Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel. Its objective is to strengthen cultural relations of various parts of
country and to embolden mutual connection between people dwelling in different in different states
It also aims to celebrate unity in diversity culture of nation and to bolster sentimental bonds between
people of different states. It aims to strengthen sentiments for National Unity between citizens of
states and states governed by union government by conducting various activities throughout year
under this campaign.
All States and UTs will be covered under programme. Under it, there will be pairing of states/UTs at
national level mainly for one year or till the next round of pairings. The pairings are being utilized for
state level activities. There are district level pairings also that are independent of state level pairings.
Brazzaville declaration signed to protect world’s largest tropical peatland
March 26, 2018
The Brazzaville declaration was singed to promote better management and conservation world’s
largest tropical peatlands-Cuvette Centrale region in Congo Basin from unregulated land use and
prevent its drainage and degradation. It was signed jointly by Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC),
Republic of Congo and Indonesia on the sidelines of Third Partners Meeting of Global Peatlands
Initiative held in Brazzaville, Republic of Congo.
Peatlands
Peatlands are wetlands that contain mixture of decomposed organic material, partially submerged in
layer of water, lacking oxygen. The complex biodiversity of peatlands means they are home to variety
of species. Their high carbon content makes them uniquely vulnerable to incineration if they are
drained.
They are globally important carbon store. The unregulated exploitation of peatlands can potentially
be detrimental to environment and to climate, as it could release carbon emissions that have been
locked in for millennia.
The Cuvette Centrale region in Congo Basin is world’s largest natural tropical peatlands, which are
about size of England. It stores three years equivalent of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Brazzaville declaration
It aims to implement coordination and cooperation between different government sectors to protect
the benefits provided by peatland ecosystems. It also recognizes the importance of the scientific
breakthrough of mapping the world’s largest tropical peatland area.
Global Peatlands Initiative
GPI is multi-partner United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) initiative launched at the
Global Landscapes Forum in Marrakesh in 2016. It is effort by leading experts and institutions to
save peatlands as the world’s largest terrestrial organic carbon stock and to prevent it being emitted
into the atmosphere.
Government releases Draft policy on Defence Production
March 26, 2018
The Ministry of Defence has released draft policy on defence production that aims to make India one
of the top five manufacturers of defence platforms with active participation of public and private
sectors. The ministry has sought comments and suggestions of experts and stakeholders on policy.
At present, India is one of the world’s largest importer of military platforms and weapons.
Objectives of Policy
Make India self-reliant in defence production as well as fulfil demand of friendly countries. Achieve turnover of
Rs.1,70,000 crore in military goods and services by 2025 by promoting domestic defence industry.
Make India one of top five manufacturers of defence platforms with active participation of public and private

sectors.
Achieve export of Rs. 35,000 crore in military equipment and services by 2025 by promoting the domestic defence
industry.
Attract additional investment of nearly Rs 70,000 crore and create employment for nearly 2 to 3 million people in
the country.
Features
Identified military platforms: The policy identifies 12 military platforms and weapons systems for
production in India to achieve aim of self-reliance. They are fighter aircraft, warships, land combat
vehicles, missile systems, medium lift and utility helicopters, gun systems, small arms, ammunition
and explosives, electronic warfare (EW) systems, surveillance systems and night fighting enablers,
among others.
Licensing process for defence industries: It will be liberalised and list of items requiring licences will
be reviewed and pruned. Except small negative list, other items will be taken out of purview of
licensing. All applications for licences for defence industires will be disposed off in 30 days. No-
objection certificates (NOCs) and comments from all agencies must necessarily be received within
two weeks of filing of applications by the companies.
Tax regime for defence industries: It will be also rationalised to make domestic manufacturing
attractive by ensuring that there is no tax inversion. Rationalise taxes on import of capital goods and
services, inputs and components used in defence production.
Government may relax protected area permit rules
March 26, 2018
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) is planning to relax the protected area permit (PAP) regime to
enable foreign tourists to access border areas. The move is being initiated to promote tourism, create
job opportunities for the locals and generate revenue for the states.
Key Facts
The proposal of relaxation of permit regime is being taken into consideration following several
requests by states falling under protected areas regime and Ministry of Tourism. MHA will
coordinate with other agencies and state governments to identify possible locations for which
protected area permit (PAP) regime provisions may be relaxed. However, citizens from Pakistan and
China are unlikely to be given these relaxations.
Protected areas and Protected area permit
Under Foreigners (Protected Areas) Order, 1958, all areas falling between Inner line and International
Border of some states have been declared as protected areas. The protected areas currently include
whole of Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Sikkim, besides parts of Himachal
Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Rajasthan and Jammu and Kashmir. Some parts of Sikkim fall under protected
area regime while others under restricted area regime. As per MHA’s December 2010 circular,
Manipur, Mizoram and Nagaland were excluded from protected area regime initially for a period of
one year from January 2011, subject to some conditions.
Guidelines: Under it, foreign national is not normally allowed to visit protected or restricted area
unless Government is satisfied that there are extra-ordinary reasons to justify his or her visit. Every
foreigner, except citizen of Bhutan, who desires to enter and stay in protected or restricted area, is
required to obtain a special permit from a competent authority having the power to issue such
permits to a foreigner, seeking it. Citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals
of Pakistani origin are not allowed to enter such areas.
Authority issuing such Permits: Necessary powers have been delegated to various authorities to
issue such special permits without prior approval of MHA to facilitate foreign tourists subject to
certain exceptions. In cases of citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals of
Pakistani origin, no permit can be issued without prior approval of MHA. In cases of foreign
diplomats, including members of United Nations and international organisations holding diplomatic
or official passports, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issues special permits to visit such protected
or restricted areas.
March 27, 2018

National Conference on Down Syndrome held in New Delhi

March 27, 2018
The National Conference on Down Syndrome was held in New Delhi. It was organised by the
National Trust under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment. Down Syndrome is a
chromosomal condition associated with intellectual and learning disabilities. It leads to delayed
development and behavioural problems in children suffering with it.
Conference
The objective of conference was to provide excellent opportunities to parents to obtain information
about latest development in education and skilling and inclusive living of persons with Down
Syndrome. The conference brought intellectuals from all walks of life on one platform to spur ideas
and channelized knowledge on Down Syndrome which was very beneficial to enable a positive
change in people with Down Syndrome.
National Trust
It is statutory body under Department of Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities (Divyangjan),
Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment. It is headquartered in New Delhi. Its mandate is to
discharge two basic duties – legal and welfare for persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental
Retardation and Multiple Disabilities.
It fundamental purpose is to create enabling environment, i.e. provide opportunities for Persons with
Disabilities (PwDs) through comprehensive support systems which will lead towards development of
inclusive society.
It has been running various schemes and programmes for welfare of PwDs. Its major activity is to
create awareness amongst general public by organizing various workshops, seminars and
conferences on these disabilities and the capabilities of such persons.
Objectives
Enable and empower PwD to live as independently and fully as possible within and close to their community as
possible.
Facilitate realisation of equal opportunities, protection of rights and full participation of persons with disability.
Extend support to its registered organisations to provide need based services.
Evolve procedures for appointments of guardians and trustees for persons with disabilities.
Surat: First district to have 100% solar powered health centres
March 27, 2018
Surat district in Gujarat become first in country to have 100% solar powered Primary Health Centers
(PHCs). All 52 PHCs in the district are now powered by solar system. With this, Surat sets an example
for country by developing villages that use sustainable forms of energy at a time when global
warming is mounting with each passing day
Key Facts
The solarification of all PHCs in Surat district will bring down electricity bill by 40% and also help
fight global warming. Other than PHCs, there are 572 gram panchayats in district, out of which 150
are solar powered gram panchayats and soon other 422 panchayats will too be solar powered. 75% of
the total expense of making gram panchayat solar powered is borne by state government and
remaining 25% by district panchayats.
ISA, India sign Host Country Agreement
March 27, 2018
The International Solar Alliance (ISA) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) signed Host Country
Agreement in New Delhi. The agreement gives ISA juridical personality an power to contract, acquire
and dispose off movable and immovable properties and also to institute and defend legal
proceedings.
Key Facts
Under this agreement, ISA will enjoy such privileges, applicable tax concessions and immunities that
are necessary for ISA’s Headquarter to independently discharge its function and programmes. It will
derive its status, privileges and immunities as per Article 10 of Framework Agreement.
ISA is initiative jointly launched by India and France in November 2015 at Paris on side lines of
COP21 UN Climate Change Conference. Its Framework Agreement came into force in December

2017. It celebrated its founding day on 11th March, 2018. It is headquartered at campus of Natioanl
Institute of Solar Energy (NISE), Gurugram, Harayana, making it first international
intergovernmental treaty based organization to be headquartered in India.
Objectives of ISA
Undertake joint efforts required to reduce the cost of finance and the cost of technology
Mobilize more than US $1000 billion of investments needed by 2030 for massive deployment of solar energy
Pave way for future technologies adapted to needs of solar rich 121 countries lying fully or partially between
Tropic of Cancer and Capricon.
ISA presently has 4 ongoing programmes
Scaling Solar Mini Grids
Affordable Finance at Scale,
Scaling Solar Applications for Agricultural Use,
Scaling Solar Rooftop catering to the needs of solar energy in specific areas
Government launches E-Tribes India on e-commerce platforms
March 27, 2018
The Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India, (TRIFED), under Ministry of
Tribal Affairs has launched E-Tribes India banners on e-commerce platforms like Amazon, Snapdeal,
Paytm & GeM.
It also launched TRIFED’s websites-www.tribesindia.com, www.trifed.in and Retail Inventory
Software and M-commerce app as part of Digital India Initiative. TRIFED’s Handbook for Retail
Trade and TRIFED’s quarterly magazine ‘Tribes Haat’ was also launched.
Key Facts
TRIFED has developed its own e-commerce (electronic commerce) website i.e., tribesindia.com for
sale of all its products and app to tap m-commerce (mobile commerce) too. The purpose of going
digital will help in expansion of tribal commerce and availability of tribal products over large area. It
will result in reaping greater benefits for tribal artisans.
For this purpose, TRIFED has entered into agreements with e-commerce platforms like Amazon and
Snapdeal who will offer their customers various tribal products and produce through their portals to
facilitate online sale. Also, Tribes India products are available on Flipkart and Paytm too. On the
request of Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Ministry of Commerce has also made provision for sale of tribal
products through TRIFED on Government e-Marketplace (GeM).
Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited (TRIFED)
TRIFED is multi-State Cooperative Society under Ministry of Tribal Affairs. It was established in
August 1987 by then Ministry of Welfare under Multi State Cooperative Societies Act 1984 (which has
now been replaced by Multi-State Cooperative Societies Act, 2002). It is headquartered in New Delhi.
It aims at promoting and marketing tribal products, tribal art and crafts within t country and abroad
by providing marketing support to tribal products through its network of retail outlets. It also
organizes exhibitions like National Tribal Craft Expo called “Aadi Mahotsav” etc. to promote and
market tribal products. It also facilitates participation of tribal artisans to enable them to interact
directly with art lovers to assess market needs.
GPI Tracker system: SWIFT broadens payment tracking capabilities
March 27, 2018
The SWIFT (Society for World Interbank Financial Telecommunication System) platform has
expanded its GPI (Global Payment Innovation) Tracker system to help banks track their global
transactions at all times and keep full vigil on payments activity.
Key Facts
From November 2018, GPI Tracker system i.e. unique end-to-end transaction reference will be
included in all payment instructions carried between all 11,000 customers on SWIFT at all times,
across more than 200 countries and territories. The expansion of GPI Tracker will cover all payment
instructions sent across the network and give them full visibility over all their payments activity. It
will significantly extend transparency and drive more banks to join service to make GPI the new
normal in cross-border payments

SWFIT GPI
SWFIT GPI was launched in May 2017 to help banks to track their global transactions at all times,
keeping full vigil on payments activity. It covers all payment instructions sent across network,
enabling GPI banks to track all their SWIFT payment instructions at all times, and giving them full
visibility over all their payments activity. It accounts for 10% of cross border payment traffic on
SWIFT network and has enabled more than hundred billion dollars to be transferred across world
rapidly and securely every day.
Benefits
It improves customer experience by increasing speed, transparency and automatically provides status updates to all
GPI banks involved in any GPI payment chain. It allows banks to confirm when payment has been completed.
It facilitates more accurate reconciliation of payments and invoices, optimises liquidity with improved cash
forecasts and reduces exposure to Foreign exchange risk, with same-day processing of funds in beneficiaries’ time
zones.
SWIFT (Society for World Interbank Financial Telecommunication System) platform
SWIFT is global financial messaging service that enables financial institutions worldwide to send and
receive information about financial transactions in secure, standardized and reliable environment. It
is used to transmit messages relating to cross border financial transactions.
It was founded in 1973 and is headquartered in La Hulpe, Belgium. It is a cooperative society under
Belgian law owned by its member financial institutions with offices around the world. Globally over
11,000 financial institutions in more than 200 countries use services of SWIFT.
SWIFT does not facilitate funds transfer, rather, it sends payment orders, that must be settled by
correspondent accounts that institutions have with each other. On receiving this message through
SWIFT, banks abroad, mostly branches of domestic banks abroad provide funds to the company.
TESS: NASA, SpaceX collaborate to search for exoplanets
March 27, 2018
NASA has partnered with private space launching company SpaceX to launch Transiting Exoplanet
Survey Satellite (TESS) to search for exoplanets using the transit method.
TESS is designed to carry out first spaceborne all-sky transiting exoplanet survey. It is equipped with
four wide-angle telescopes and associated charge-coupled device (CCD) detectors. It is planned to be
launched in April 2018 on board of SpaceX’s Falcon 9 rocket from the Cape Canaveral Air Force
Station.
Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS)
The primary mission objective of TESS is to survey brightest stars near Earth for transiting
exoplanets over two-year period. It will use array of wide-field cameras to perform all-sky survey. It
will create catalog of thousands of exoplanet candidates using transit photometry method.
It will provide prime targets for further characterization by James Webb Space Telescope, as well as
other large ground-based and space-based telescopes of the future. With TESS, it will be possible to
study mass, size, density and orbit of large cohort of small planets, including sample of rocky worlds
in habitable zones (goldilocks zone) of their host stars. This will reveal whether planets are rocky (like
Earth), gas or jovian giants (like Jupiter) or something even more unusual.

March 28, 2018

AAI signs MoU with Assam Government to develop villages in Kamrup district
March 28, 2018
The Airport Authority of India (AAI) has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Assam
government for sustainable development of human settlements at villages in Kamrup district.
Key Facts
As per terms of MoU, AAI will provide financial assistance of Rs. 4.58 crore for Kamrup district under
its Corporate Social Responsibilities (CSR) initiative. The estimates of the financial assistance have
been prepared by United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to improve resilience of
communities around Guwahati Airport. The AAI through its CSR policy supports such initiatives for
promoting infrastructure for convenience of population with view to improve resilience of
communities.
Airports Authority of India (AAI)
AAI is statutory body under aegis of Ministry of Civil Aviation. It was founded in April 1995 and is
headquartered in New Delhi. It is responsible for creating, upgrading, maintaining and managing
civil aviation infrastructure in India. It also provides Air traffic management (ATM) services over
Indian airspace and adjoining oceanic areas. AAI manages around 125 airports in India, which include
18 International Airport, 7 Customs Airports, 78 Domestic Airports and 26 Civil Enclaves at Defence
airfields.
India’s first insect museum opened in Tamil Nadu
March 28, 2018
India’s first insect museum with state-of-the-art amenities was unveiled at Tamil Nadu Agricultural
University campus in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. It was inaugurated by Tamil Nadu Chief Minister K
Palaniswamy.
Key Facts
The museum has been established at an area of 6,691 sqft. It is fully dedicated to insects. It will
display insects preserved as specimens as also live ones depicting their different developmental
stages. It will provide information about insects through images, videos and models of their unique
behaviour, habits and habitats.
The lobby of the museum depicts theme “BUGS ARE KINGS”. Its exhibiting area comprises seven
radial walls (bay) on right side and an undivided wall on the left side. It also has section on social
insect exhibiting termite mounds (whole and sectioned) and bee hives of different kinds and forms. It
also has souvenir shop and mini auditorium to screen insect movies and documentary films are
available.

Department of Posts launches Cool EMS Service between India and Japan
March 28, 2018
Department of Posts under Ministry of Communications has launched Cool EMS Service between
India and Japan. It is one-way service from Japan to India which allows customers in India to import
Japanese food items for personal use which is allowed under Indian regulations.
Cool EMS Service
The Cool EMS Service came into force from March 2018. Initially, it will be available in Delhi only.
Food items will be carried by Japan Post in special cool boxes containing refrigerant to preserve
quality of food items. The recipient addressee will collect them from Foreign Post office, Kotla Road,
New Delhi in-person or through a messenger in prescribed time frame. Cool EMS service also has all
other features like track and trace, etc of Express Mail Service (EMS).
India and China agree roadmap for addressing Trade Imbalance
March 28, 2018
The eleventh session of the China-India joint-group on Economic Relations, Trade, Science &
Technology was held in New Delhi. The session was co-chaired by Union Minister of Commerce &
Industry Suresh Prabhu and China’s Minister of Commerce Mr. Zhong Shan.
Key Outcomes of meeting
Both countries reaffirmed and reiterated their commitments to promote balanced and sustainable
bilateral trade. They agreed to continue to take forward initiatives identified in Five Year
Development Programme for Economic and Trade Cooperation (DPETC) signed between both
countries in September 2014.
China noted India’s concern regarding long existing trade imbalance and requests for market access
for Indian products and services. It also expressed its commitment to address these concerns
through broad framework provided by successive JEGs and Five Year DPETC.
China reaffirmed its commitment to accelerate provision of market access for Indian agricultural
products pertaining to non-basmati rice, soya-meals, rape-seed meals, pomegranate and
pomegranate arils, okra, banana and other fruits and vegetables and bovine meat expeditiously.
Both countries reaffirmed their aim to promote bilateral trade in field of pharmaceuticals including
resolution of issues of Indian pharma products exports to Chinese markets. They agreed to draw-up
medium and long term roadmap with action points and timelines to increase bilateral trade between
in balanced and sustainable manner. They also agreed to strengthen cooperation within WTO and
other multilateral and regional frameworks and to maintain their common interest. Both sides
reiterated their commitment to rules based multilateral global trade.
Background
India and China are the largest emerging economies of world with 35% of the world’s population and
around 20% of the world’s GDP but the relative volume of bilateral trade is less than 1% of global
trade. India-China bilateral trade has reached $84.44 billion last year, a historic high with 18.63%
year-on-year growth rate. India is seventh largest export destination for Chinese products, and 24th
largest exporter to China. India’s trade deficit: It continues to remain high at $51.75 billion,
registering a growth of 8.55% year-on-year in 2017.
Atal Innovation Mission ink SOI with SAP Global to foster innovation
March 28, 2018
NITI Aayog’s Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) has signed Statement of Intent (SOI) with German tech
company SAP to promote culture of innovation and entrepreneurship across 100 Atal Tinkering Labs
across India.
As part of SOI, SAP will adopt 100 Atal Tinkering Laboratories (ATL) in 2018 for five years to nurture
science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) learning among secondary school children
across India.
Key Facts
SAP will select secondary schools from Delhi, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra
Pradesh and Telangana. The collaboration will allow SAP to further ignite innovation in India’s large
student population by providing right guidance, knowledge and infrastructure. SAP employee
volunteers will coach and mentor students in advanced technology topics. Design lab of SAP Labs
India, will provide trainings and allow students to gain hands-on experience with technology

gadgets.
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM)
AIM is flagship initiative to promote culture of innovation and entrepreneurship in country. Its
mandated is to create umbrella structure to oversee innovation ecosystem of country and
revolutionize innovation eco-system.
Objectives
Develop new programmes and policies for fostering innovation in different sectors of economy.
Provide platform and collaboration opportunities for different stakeholders, create awareness.
Create umbrella structure to oversee innovation ecosystem of the country.
Its sub-schemes include establishing Atal Tinkering Labs (ATLs) and Atal Incubation Centers (AICs),
for providing scaling up support to Established Incubation Centres. It also includes finding ultra-low
cost solution to India’s most intractable problems through Atal Grand Challenges and Atal Vikas
Challenges.
Till date, AIM has selected 2441 schools across India to establish ATLs, covering 93% of total districts
in India and 98% of upcoming smart cities representing all states and 5 out of 7 UTs.
Skill India partners with Ministry of Power for implementation of Saubhagya Scheme
March 28, 2018
The Ministry of Power has partnered with Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship to
train the manpower in six states for speedy implementation of its Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har
Ghar Yojna (Saubhagya Scheme). These six states are Assam, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand,
Odisha and Uttar Pradesh.
Key Facts
Under this partnership, around 47,000 Distribution Lineman-Multi Skills and 8,500 Technical
Helpers will be trained to meet the requirement of power sector projects under Saubhagya scheme.
The training infrastructures will be available with ITI’s at district level as well as infrastructures
available with State Power Distribution Utilities will be utilized for skill training of candidates
ensuring successful implementation of scheme.
Pradhan Mantri Sahaj Bijli Har Ghar Yojna (Saubhagya Scheme)
Objective: To achieve universal household electrification in all parts of the country. The scheme
primarily benefits rural areas, which have vast majority of households without power connections.
Funding: Total outlay of scheme is Rs. 16,320 crore of which Gross Budgetary Support (GBS) is Rs.
12,320 crore. It is being funded to extent of 60% by central grants, 30% by bank loans and 10% by
states. Of total outlay of Rs 16,320 crore, rural areas will get Rs 14,025 crore. For urban households
outlay is Rs. 2,295 crore. States will be provided with incentive of 50% of their loan being converted
to grants, if electrification targets under the scheme are met by 31 December 2018.
Identification of beneficiaries: The government will use Socio Economic and Caste Census (SECC)
2011 data to identify beneficiaries for free electricity connections. Un-electrified households not
covered under SECC data will also be provided electricity connections on payment of Rs. 500 which
will be recovered by DISCOMs in 10 installments through electricity bill.
Implementing agencies: The Rural Electrification Corporation Limited under Ministry of Power is
nodal agency for the operationalisation of the scheme throughout the country. To ensure on-the-spot
registration, mobile applications will be used. Gram Panchayat and public institutions in rural areas
will be authorised to carry out billing and collection tasks.
Benefits: Free connections will be provided to below poverty line (BPL) households and even those
not covered under this category can avail electricity connection by paying Rs. 500 in 10 instalments
with their monthly bill. There will be no subsidy component for monthly electricity consumption.
Remote areas: For those household where national electricity grid cannot reach, households will be
provided with solar power packs along with battery banks. Remote hamlets will be powered with
solar panels along with 5 LED lamps, DC fan and plug point along with repair and maintenance for
five years.
93% rural households with access to toilets using them: NARSS 2017-18
March 28, 2018
According to National Annual Rural Sanitation Survey (NARSS) 2017-18, over 93% households in

villages who have access to toilets are using them and about 77% homes in rural areas have got
toilets. The survey was conducted by Independent Verification Agency (IVA) under World Bank
support project to Swachh Bharat Mission Gramin (SBM-G).
Background
The survey was conducted between mid-November 2017 and mid-March 2018. It covered 92040
households in 6136 villages across States/UTs of India. It also covered schools, anganwadis and
public/community toilets in these villages. It used the PPS (Probability Proportion to Size) sampling
methodology and its data was collected using Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI)
platform.
Key findings of NARSS 2017-18
77% of households were found to have access to toilets.
4% of people who had access to toilets used them.
6% of villages which were previously declared and verified as ODF were confirmed to be ODF. The remaining
4.4% villages also had sanitation coverage of over 95%.
70% of villages surveyed found to have minimal litter and minimal stagnant water.
Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)
SBM was launched in October 2014 to achieve universal sanitation coverage and to put focus on
sanitation. The mission aims to achieve Swachh Bharat or make India clean by 2019, as a fitting
tribute to 150th Birth Anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. It world’s largest sanitation program that
aimed bring behavioural change of people with respect to toilet access and usage
The SBM consists of two sub-missions Swachh Bharat Mission (Gramin), implemented in rural areas,
and Swachh Bharat Mission (Urban), implemented in urban areas. SBM-G seeks to eliminate open
defecation in rural areas by improving access to sanitation by ensuring use of toilets, besides their
construction. It also seeks to generate awareness to motivate communities to adopt sustainable
sanitation practices, and encourage the use of appropriate technologies for sanitation.
Outcomes
Over 6.5 crore toilets were built across rural India under SBM. Over 3.38 lakh villages and 338
districts were declared ODF, along with 9 ODF States/3 Union Territories, namely Sikkim, Himachal
Pradesh, Kerala, Haryana, Uttarakhand, Gujarat, Arunachal Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Meghalaya,
Chandigarh, Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu. Over, 300 million people have stopped defecating
in open since launch of SBM.
Exim Bank extends $500 million loan facility to 15-nation ECOWAS
March 28, 2018
The Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) has inked line of credit (LoC) agreement with Bank for
Investment and Development (EBID) to provide US $500 million credit facility to fund various
development projects in 15-member countries of Economic Community of West African States
(ECOWAS) region in western-south Africa.
Key Facts
The LoC of US $500 million to EBID is umbrella limit for financing developmental projects in 15-
member countries of EBID in ECOWAS region. These projects entitled to get funding may belong any
sector which is of priority of governments of any of member states of EBID. With signing of LoC
agreement, Exim Bank till date has extended four LoCs to EBID, with support of government, taking
total value of LOCs to US $1,000 million.
Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)
The ECOWAS is regional group of 15 West African countries. It was founded in May 1975, with the
signing of the Treaty of Lagos. Its mandate is to promote economic integration in all fields of activity
of the constituting countries. Its 15 member countries are Benin, Cape Verde, Burkina Faso, Gambia,
Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Guinea Bissau, Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal, Sierra Leone and
Togo.
Government launches Study in India programme to attract foreign students
March 28, 2018
The Ministry of Human Resources Development (HRD) has approved ‘Study in India’ programme to
attract foreign students to pursue higher education in India. Government has approved expenditure

of Rs. 150 crores for programme for two years 2018-19 and 2019-20 which will be primarily for brand
promotion activities.
Study in India programme
Objectives
Encourage more foreign students to choose India as destination for higher education.
Double India’s market share of global education exports from less than 1% to 2%.
Improve global ranking of Indian educational institutes.
Features
The programme will provide meritorious foreign students fee waiver and scholarship. The proposed
fee waiver and scholarship will be decided by institute concerned based on the predefined structure.
The institutes concerned will bear expenditure on fee waiver based on cross-subsidisation or
through its existing funding.
Under it, 100% waiver of tuition fees will be only for the top 25% students, 50% waiver of tuition fees
only for the next 25% students, 25% waiver of tuition fees only for the next 25% students and no
waiver of tuition fee for remaining 25% of students. The programme will not affect number of seats
which are meant for Indian students in any educational institute.
Background
In past couple of years, premier Indian institutes have not featured in top 100 in any of global
rankings. One of the reasons is that global rankings also consider number of foreign faculty and
foreign students studying in educational institute. In Times Higher Education Ranking 2018, top spot
has gone to University of Oxford where 38% population is of Indian students. On contrary, Indian
Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru has only 1% population of International students. As per existing
Government framework, there is provision of 10-15% supernumerary seats for foreign students in
educational institutes.
K2-229b: Hot, metallic Earth-sized planet discovered
March 28, 2018
Scientists using Kepler 2 telescope have discovered hot, metallic, Earth-sized planet named K2-229b
orbiting dwarf star located 260 million light years away. They had employed Doppler spectroscopy
technique also known as ‘wobble method‘ to discover and characterise this faraway planet.
K2-229b
K2-229b planet is almost 20% larger than Earth but has mass which is over two-and-a-half times
greater. It is located very close to its host star (0.012 AU, around a hundredth of the distance between
Earth and Sun), which itself is medium-sized active K dwarf in Virgo Constellation.
K2-229b orbits its star every fourteen hours. Its day side temperature reaches over 2000 degrees
Celsius. Scientists calculated size, position and mass of K2-229b by measuring radial velocity of star
and finding out starlight ‘wobbles’ during orbit, due to gravitational tug from planet, which changes
depending on planet’s size.
K2-229b has same high density that of Mercury-like planets. It is also innermost planet in system of
at least three planets, though all three orbit much closer to their star than Mercury.
Significance
The dense, metallic nature of K2-229b has numerous potential origins. The one hypothesis is that its
atmosphere might have been eroded by intense stellar wind and flares, as it is so close to its star.
Another possibility is that K2-229b was formed after huge impact between two giant astronomical
bodies in space billions of years ago – much like theory that Moon was formed after Earth collided
with body size of Mars. K2-229b is similar to Mercury, knowing more about it can potentially give
more clues of formation our planets in our own solar system.
Cabinet approves MoU between India and Canada on IPRs
March 28, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Canada
to establish bilateral cooperation activities in field of Intellectual Property (IP). The MoU was signed
in February 2018 and is intended to promote innovation, creativity and economic growth in both
countries.
Key Features of MoU
The MoU establishes broad and flexible framework through which both countries can exchange best

practices and work together on training programs and technical exchanges to raise awareness on
IPRs and better protect intellectual property rights (IPRs).
It will facilitate exchange of best practices, experiences and knowledge on raising IP awareness
among public, businesses and educational institutions of both countries. It will allow exchange of
experts for interacting with human resources engaged in specialized IP fields.
It will facilitate cooperation in development of automation arid implementation of modernization
projects, new and existing documentation and information systems in IP and procedures for
management of IP. It will assist in protecting traditional knowledge.
March 29, 2018
Cabinet approves India, UK and Ireland MoU on organised crime
March 29, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between
India and United Kingdom and Northern Ireland regarding cooperation in the field of organised
crime. It is exchange of information for purposes of combating international criminality and tackling
serious organised crime.
Key Facts
The MoU will reinforce collaboration in field of security that will be mutually beneficial. India and UK
already have agreement concerning investigation and prosecution of crime and tracing, restraint
and confiscation of proceeds and instruments of crime which was signed in 1995. It also includes
crimes involving currency transfers and terrorist funds. Both countries desire to further strengthen
cooperation in fighting international criminality and serious organized crime.
CCEA approves bulk export of all edible oils
March 29, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved for removal of prohibition on
export of all varieties of edible oils except mustard oil. The proposal was forwarded by Ministry of
Commerce & Industry. The CCEA has also approved empowering Committee, chaired by Secretary,
Department of Food & Public Distribution to review the export and import policy on all varieties of
edible oils.
Key Facts
The empowering committee will consider measures such as quantitative restrictions, prior
registration, imposition of Minimum Export Price (MEP) and changes in import duties depending on
domestic production and demand, domestic and international prices and international trade
volumes. The CCEA has discontinued Inter-Ministerial Committee headed by Commerce Secretary,
mandated to review export of edible oils in consumer packs and calibrate MEP from time to time.
Impact
Removing of restrictions on export of all edible oils will provide additional marketing avenues for
edible oils and oilseeds. It will benefit the farmers by way of better realisation for oilseeds. It will also
result in utilization of idle capacity in India’s edible oils industry. It is considered as a step towards
Ease of Doing Business by removing confusion arising out of prohibition on export of edible oils and
plethora of exemptions.
Background
The production of oilseeds in 2016-17 has seen quantum jump in comparison to past two years. It is
expected that production of oilseeds in 2017-18 is going to sustain at same levels. At present, only
certain edible oils are allowed be exported in bulk and other oils only in consumer packs with MEP. In
order to support growing production of oilseeds and to explore additional avenues for marketing of
edible oils, allowing bulk export of all edible oils with the exception of mustard oil which is an item of
mass consumption in India was seen required step.
Cabinet approves re-structuring of NSDF and NSDC
March 29, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved proposal for restructuring of National Skill Development Fund
(NSDF) and National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) to strengthen their governance,
implementation and monitoring framework.
The purpose of restructuring is also to ensure better corporate governance, transparency and
accountability in operations of NSDC. Besides it will also strengthen oversight role of NSDF. It will

also lead to restructuring of composition of Board of NSDF and NSDC to strengthen governance,
implementation and monitoring framework.
Background
NSDC and NSDF were set up by Ministry of Finance and registered in July 2008 and January, 2009
respectively for implementing coordinated action for skill development. NSDF’s main objective is to
enhance, stimulate and develop skills of Indian youth force by various sector specific programmes. It
was incorporated as trust to act as receptacle for financial contributions from Governmental sources,
bilateral and multilateral and other agencies. NSDF entered into Investment Management
Agreement (IMA) with NSDC for utilization of its corpus to meet desired objectives of National Skill
Development Mission and encourage skill development in country.
CCEA approves continuation of Credit Guarantee Fund for Education Loans Scheme
March 29, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved continuation of Credit Guarantee
Fund for Education Loans Scheme. It also approved continuation and modification of Central Sector
Interest Subsidy Scheme for period from 2017 to 20. This will provide education loans to 10 lakh
students during this period. The restructuring of scheme is in accordance with policy of Government
to make good quality education affordable to all.
Modifications
Ceiling on loan amount has been refixed at Rs. 7.5 lakhs, considering the average loan size only of Rs.
4 lakhs in order to allow more students to access the benefit. The moratorium period will be course
period + 1 year.
The scheme will now cover loans for pursuing professional and technical courses from NAAC and
NBA accredited Institutions and programmes or Institutions of National Importance or Central
Funded Technical Institutions (CFTIs) to promote quality education. But this condition will be
applicable with prospective effect, and will not apply to current loans. Dashboard will be put in place
for better monitoring of the scheme.
Coverage
Under the revised scheme, the numbers of loans per year are expected to be at least 3.3 lakhs i.e. 20%
increase over previous scheme. The scheme which ran since 2009, average educational loans per year
were only 2.78 lakhs.
Central Sector Interest Subsidy (CSIS) Scheme
CSIS Scheme was launched in April, 2009. Under it, full interest subsidy is provided for education
loan taken from Scheduled Banks under Model Education Loan Scheme of Indian Banks’ Association.
It is covering a period of course duration + 1 year.
The educational loan under CSIS is made available for all professional and technical courses in India
and students with annual gross parental income up to Rs. 4.5 lakhs. The loans are disbursed without
any collateral security and third-party guarantee.
Credit Guarantee Fund for Education Loans (CGFEL) Scheme
CGFEL Scheme provides guarantee for education loan under Model Education Loan Scheme of Indian
Banks’ Association. It is disbursed by banks without seeking any collateral security and third-party
guarantee for maximum loan amount of Rs.7.5 Lakhs.
Cabinet approves MoU between India and SACEP for cooperation on Oil and Chemical Pollution
March 29, 2018
The Union Cabinet has approved signing of Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India
and South Asian Cooperative Environment Programme (SACEP) for cooperation on response to Oil
and Chemical Pollution in South Asian Seas Region.
Key Facts
The MoU intends to promote closer cooperation between India and other maritime nations
comprising South Asian seas region namely Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka for
protection and preservation of marine environment in the region.
Implementation
Indian Coast Guard (ICG) under Defence Ministry will be Competent National Authority and national
operational contact point for implementation of Regional Oil Spill Contingency Plan under MoU. It
will respond to oil and chemical spills on behalf of Government of India. Further, ICG Maritime

Rescue Coordination Centres (MRCCs) will be national emergency response centre for marine
incidents.
Background
Governments of India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka had
established SACEP in 1982 in Sri Lanka. Its purpose was to promote and support protection,
management and enhancement of environment in the South Asian region.
The SACEP jointly with International Maritime Organisation (IMO) had developed Regional Oil Spill
Contingency Plan to facilitate international co-operation and mutual assistance in preparing and
responding to major oil pollution incident in seas around SACEP’s maritime states of Bangladesh,
India, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
South Asia Subregional Economic Cooperation (SASEC)
SASEC program is project-based partnership to promote regional prosperity by improving cross-
border connectivity, boosting trade among member countries and strengthening regional economic
cooperation. It was established in 2001. Its seven members are Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives,
Myanmar, Nepal and Sri Lanka. ADB is secretariat and lead financier of SASEC program. So far, it has
supported 46 projects worth $9.17 billion in transport, trade facilitation, energy and information and
communications technology (ICT).
Cabinet approves amendments to National Medical Commission Bill
March 29, 2018
Union Cabinet has approved certain amendments to National Medical Commission (NMC) Bill
considering recommendations of Department Related Parliamentary Standing Committee (DRPSC)
and general feedback from public.
Background
The NMC Bill seeks to replace the Medical Council of India with National Medical Commission as top
regulator of medical education in India. It aims to move towards outcome-based regulation of
medical education rather than process oriented. It will ensure proper separation of functions within
regulator by having autonomous boards, create accountable and transparent procedures for
maintaining standards in Medical Education.
Amendments approved are
Final MBBS Examination and exit test: The final MBBS examination will be held as common exam
throughout country. It will serve as exit test to be called National Exit Test (NEXT). It will ease
burden on medical students as they will not have to appear in separate exam after MBBS to get
license to practice. NEXT will also serve as screening test for doctors with foreign medical
qualifications in order to practice in India.
Provision of Bridge course: It removes provision dealing with bridge course for AYUSH practitioners
to practice modern medicine to limited extent. Now state governments have been empowered to
take necessary measures for addressing and promoting primary health care in rural areas.
Fee regulation: The maximum limit of 40% seats for which fee will be regulated in private medical
institutions and deemed universities has been increased to 50% seats. The fee will also include all
other charges taken by colleges.
Number of nominees from States/UTs in NMC: The nominees of States and UTs in National Medical
Commission (NMC) have been increased from 3 to 6. TNMC will comprise of 25 members of which at
least 21 will be doctors.
Monetary penalty for medical colleges: It adds provision providing different options for warning,
reasonable monetary penalty, reducing intake, stoppage of admission leading up to withdrawal of
recognition on medical college non-compliant with norms. Earlier, wide range of monetary penalty,
ranging from one half to ten times annual fee recovered from batch was to be imposed in a graded
manner.
Stringent punishment for quacks: It provides severe punishment for any unauthorized practice of
medicine or by quacks with imprisonment of up to 1 year along with fine extending up to Rs. 5 lakhs.
CCEA approves new Integrated Scheme for School Education
March 29, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved new Integrated Scheme on School

Education for period 2018 to 2020 to be formulated by Department of School Education and Literacy.
The new scheme will subsume existing schemes related to education such as Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan
(SSA), Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) and Teacher Education (TE).
Key Facts
The scheme comes in backdrop of Government’s vision of Sabko Shiksha, Achhi Shiksha and aims to
support the States in universalizing access to school education from classes pre-nursery to XII across
the country. It will have estimated allocation of Rs 75,000 crore over the said period is 20% increase
over current allocations
Features of Scheme
The scheme aims is to ensure inclusive and equitable quality education from nursery to senior
secondary stage in accordance with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for Education. The main
emphasis is to improve quality of school education by focussing on the two T’s – Teacher and
Technology.
Objectives of the Scheme
Provide quality education and enhance learning outcomes of students.
Bridge social and gender gaps in School Education.
Ensure equity and inclusion at all levels of school education.
Ensure minimum standards in schooling provisions.
Promote vocationalization of education.
Support States in implementing Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education (RTE) Act, 2009.
Strengthen and up-grade State Councils for Educational Research and Training (SCERTs) and State Institutes of
Education and District Institutes for Education and Training (DIET) as nodal agencies for teacher training.
Significance of Scheme
The Scheme gives flexibility to States/UTs to plan and prioritize their interventions within scheme
norms and overall resource envelope available to them. It will help improve transition rates across
various levels of school education and aid in promoting universal access to children to complete
school education.
The Scheme will equip children with varied skills and knowledge essential for their holistic
development and prepare them for world of work or higher education in future. It will also lead to
optimal utilization of budgetary allocations and effective use of human resources and institutional
structures created for erstwhile Schemes.
Benefits of Scheme
It provides holistic approach to education. It focuses on inclusion of senior secondary levels and pre-
school levels in support for School education for t first time. It calls for integrated administration
looking at school as continuum.
It will focus on Quality of Education with emphasis on improvement of learning outcomes. It will
enhance capacity building of teachers. It will focus on strengthening teacher education Institutions
like SCERTs and DIETs to improve the quality of teacher training.
It will enhance use of digital technology in education through smart classrooms, digital boards and
DTK channels. It has specific provision for swachhta activities with support of ‘SwachhVidyalaya’. It
will improve Quality of Infrastructure in Government Schools.
It has enhanced commitment to ‘Beti Bachao Beti Padhao’- Upgradation of KGBVs from class VI -VIII
to upto class XII. It gives emphasis on ‘Kaushal Vikas’ in schools and supports ‘Khelo India’ for sports
and physical equipment. It gives preference to educationally backward blocks (EBBs), Special Focus
Districts (SFDs), Left Wing Extremism (LWEs), Border areas and 115 aspirational districts
CCEA approves enhancing coverage of Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana
March 29, 2018
The CCEA chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved proposal of enhancing scope of
Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana (PMRPY). The Central Government will now contribute
Employer’s full admissible contribution for first 3 years from date of registration of new employee for
all sectors including existing beneficiaries for their remaining period of 3 years. It will benefit the
informal sector workers as the will get social safety net and result in more job creation.

Pradhan Mantri Rojgar Protsahan Yojana (PMRPY)

PMRPY has been in operation since August 2016. Under it, Government is paying 8.33% contribution
of Employers to Employees’ Pension Scheme (EPS) in respect of new employees (joined on or after 1st
April 2016) having new Universal Account Number (UAN), with salary up to Rs. 15,000/- per month.
The scheme has dual benefit i.e. it incentivize employers for increasing employment base of workers
establishments and enables large number of workers to find jobs in such establishments. Its direct
benefit is that these workers get access to social security benefits of organized sector. Till now, the
scheme has produced quite encouraging results and has added about 31 Lakhs beneficiaries to formal
employment involving expenditure of more than Rs. 500 crore.
CCEA approves continuation of Nutrient Based Subsidy and City Compost Scheme
March 29, 2018
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved for continuation of Nutrient
Based Subsidy (NBS) Scheme and City Compost Scheme beyond 12th Five Year plan till 2019-20. The
proposal was forwarded by Department of Fertilizers.
Key Facts
The total expenditure for continuation of both schemes till 2019-20 will be Rs. 61,972 crore. The
expenditure will be on actual basis since national roll out of DBT entails 100% payment of subsidy to
fertilizer companies on sale of fertilizers to farmers at subsidized rates.
The subsidy on Phosphatic and Potassic (P&K) fertilizers and Market Development Assistant (MDA)
on City Compost will be provided on subsidy rates approved by CCEA on annual basis. The
continuation of both schemes will ensure that adequate quantity of P&K is made available to farmers
at statutory controlled price.
Background
Government is making available fertilizers, namely Urea and 21 grades of P&K fertilizers to farmers
at subsidized prices through fertilizer manufacturers and importers. The subsidy on P&K fertilizers
is being governed by NBS Scheme which was launched in 2010.Its objectives are to foster balanced
use of fertilizers to improve soil health and reduce government outgo on fertiliser support (subsidy).
Similarly, MDA is being governed by City Compost Scheme which was launched in 2016. City
Compost Scheme aims to convert all organic waste generated in cities into compost or biogas and
market the compost with the help of fertiliser companies to benefit farmers.
March 30, 2018
India receives first US LNG shipment at Dabhol under long-term deal
March 30, 2018
India received its first Liquid Natural Gas (LNG) cargo from United States (US) under long-term
supply deal. The first US-sourced LNG shipment was imported by state-owned GAIL on board of its
chartered LNG ship ‘Meridian Spirit’ from Cheniere Energy’s Sabine Pass LNG export facility in
Louisiana. It was discharged at GAIL’s Dabhol terminal, Maharashtra after 25 days voyage. The
development comes on heels of India’s first import of crude oil from US in October 2017.
Background
GAIL has signed two 20-year Sale Purchase Agreement (SPA) potentially worth US $32 billion with
US’ natural gas exporter Dominion Cove Point project in Maryland and tSabine Pass project in
Louisiana. Under it, GAIL will purchase around 3.5 Million Tonne of LNG per year from Sabine Pass.
This shipment will help GAIL to diversify its portfolio both on price indexation and geographical
locations.
Background
India primarily imports LNG from Qatar and Australia under long-term contracts. In recent times, it
has been trying to diversify its natural gas sources. Moreover, after former US President Barack
Obama lifted US’s 40 year-old oil export ban, Indian oil and gas companies in response bought
shipments of US crude to check for cost competitiveness and its compatibility with Indian refinery
configuration. India is also trying to increase its use of natural gas in the energy mix from current 6%
to 15% within five years inorder reduce dependence on oil and to secure energy supplies and reduce
emissions by using more natural gas.

Hindon Elevated Road: India’s longest elevated road inaugurated in Uttar Pradesh
March 30, 2018
Hindon Elevated Road, India’s longest elevated road was inaugurated in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh by
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. It connects UP Gate to Rajnagar Extension and will make it easier to
commute between Delhi and Ghaziabad.
Key Facts
The elevated six-lane road is approximately 10 kilometres-long. It is built on 227 single pillars. It was
built at a cost of about Rs 11,000 crores. It reduces 1 hour journey by 18 minutes. It is estimated that
around 4,000 vehicles would ply on this elevated road every hour. It will also make easy to reach
National Highway (NH) 58 from NH 24 (Delhi-Meerut Highway). Its construction was started was
started in November 2014 and took three years and four months to complete it. It has been built on
Transit-orented development (TOD) basis, a type of urban planning that makes public transportation
easily accessible to residential, business and leisure space.
Rajasthan’s first mega food park inaugurated at Ajmer
March 30, 2018
Rajasthan’s first mega food park-Greentech Mega Food Park Private Ltd was inaugurated at
Roopangarh Village in Ajmer district. It was inaugurated by Union Minister for Food Processing
Industry Harsimrat Kaur Badal. The park was set up under Central Government’s flagship Pradhan
Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana and ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Key Facts
The mega food park has been set up in area of 85.44 acres at a cost of Rs 113.57 crore. It has central
processing centre as well as well as four Primary Processing Centres (PPCs)at Jaipur, Nagaur, Tonk
and Churu. It also has facilities for primary processing and storage near farms. It will not only benefit
around 25,000 farmers of Ajmer but also those of nearby districts of Jaipur, Tonk, Nagaur and Churu
as well. It will also provide direct and indirect employment to 5,000 persons. The modern
infrastructure for food processing created at Park will benefit farmers, growers, processors and
consumers of Rajasthan and adjoining areas immensely.
China launches twin BeiDou-3 navigation satellites into space
March 30, 2018
China has successfully sent pair of twin Beidou-3MEO satellites – Beidou-30 and Beidou-31 –into
space as part of its third and final stage of launching its domestic Beidou (Compass) satellite
navigation system.
They were launched on board Long March-3B carrier rocket from Xichang Satellite Launch Center in
southwest China’s Sichuan Province. It was 269th mission for the Long March rocket family.
Key Facts
The twin satellites are MEO satellites i.e. Medium Earth Orbit component of the third phase of
Beidou satellite navigation system. They will work together with six previously launched BeiDou-3
satellites once they pass series of tests. They were developed by the Innovation Academy for
Microsatellites at Chinese Academy of Sciences and China Academy of Launch Vehicle Technology,
respectively. These satellites are part of fleet of Beidou satellites that will expand the system to global
navigation coverage. These satellites reside in 21,500 – 21,400 km nominal orbit at 55.5 degrees.
These satellites are using new bus that features phased array antenna for navigation signals and
laser retroreflector.
BeiDou Navigation System
BeiDou is 2nd generation of Chinese homegrown navigational system seen as rival to US’s Global
Positioning System (GPS). It was named after Chinese term for plough or Big Dipper constellation. It
comprises constellation of total 35 satellites including 27 MEO (21,500 km orbits) satellites, 3 IGSO
satellites and 5 GSO satellites.
The first BeiDou satellite was sent into space in 2000. The system became operational in December
2011, with constellation of 10 satellites providing services in China only. In December 2012, it began
offering services to customers in Asia-Pacific region. On its completion in 2020, it will provide
services to global customers. Currently it used for civilian services in field of navigation, messaging,
transportation and weather forecasting sectors. It also has military applications.

First National Conclave on Psychological Trauma, Child Protection, and Mental Illnesses held in New
Delhi
March 30, 2018
The first National Conclave on Psychological Trauma, Child Protection, and Mental Illnesses held in
New Delhi. It was aimed to provide comprehensive synthesis of research, service provision and
clinical practice in addressing psychological trauma and subsequent mental illnesses in Indian
children and adolescents
Key Facts
The two day conclave was organised by Ministry of Women & Child Development in collaboration
with the Department of Psychiatry, AIIMS. It was inaugurated by Minister of State for Women and
Child Development, Dr. Virendra Kumar.
The conclave provided common platform for all stakeholders such as academicians, clinicians,
government and NGOs working in this area. It also provide platform to them to discuss the direction
of robust evidence based research, better service provision, and capacity building of professionals.
Madhya Pradesh’s Kadaknath chicken gets Geographical Indication tag
March 30, 2018
Chennai based Geographical Indication Registry and Intellectual Property India has awarded
Geographical Indication (GI) Tag to Madhya Pradesh’s Kadaknath chicken. The GI tag will ensure
that no one else can use name Kadaknath Chicken while selling any other black chicken. It will also
translate into higher prices for producers, officials in the animal husbandry department said.
Kadaknath Chicken
Kadaknath chicken breed is unique for its black colour due to its black-feathers. Its black colour
stems from the deposition of melanin pigment. This breed of chicken is popular for its adaptability
and flavourful good-tasting black meat, which is believed to have medicinal properties. It is native
tribal districts of Jhabua, Alirajpur and parts of Dhar in Madhya Pradesh.
Kadaknath chicken contains 25-27% of protein in comparison with other breeds of chickens that
contain 18% protein. It is also known for its high iron content. It has fat and cholesterol content lower
compared with other chicken breeds. Due to this special characteristics, Kadaknath chicken’s chicks
and eggs are sold at much higher rate than other varieties of chicken. This chicken breed is very
popular among local tribal people mainly due to its adaptability to the local environment, disease
resistance, meat quality, texture and flavour.
Background
Recently, Kadaknath chicken had virtually became bone of contention between Madhya Pradesh and
Chhattisgarh with both the States staking claim over its nativity for GI tag. Both States had filed
applications with the Geographical Indication Registry office in Chennai for the ‘GI tag’ for this
black-winged chicken variety.
Geographical Indication (GI)
The 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.
These goods and products having tag are recognised for their origin, quality and reputation and
gives it required edge in the global market. It also ensures that none can use their name, giving them
exclusivity. The registration of a GI is valid for 10 years after which it needs to be renewed.
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 is governed by Geographical
Indications of Goods (Registration and Protection Act), 1999. This Act is administered by Controller
General of Patents, Designs and Trade Marks, who is also Registrar of Geographical Indications.
InSight Mission: NASA’s first mission to explore deep interior of Mars
March 30, 2018
NASA will send first-ever mission named as InSight (Interior Exploration using Seismic Investigations,
Geodesy and Heat Transport) dedicated to exploring the deep interior of Mars.
InSight will be stationary lander that will be launched in May 2018. It will be first NASA mission since
the Apollo moon landings to place seismometer, a device that measures quakes on the soil of another

planet.
InSight Mission
InSight is NASA’s Discovery Program mission that aims to place stationary lander equipped with
seismometer and heat transfer probe on surface of Mars to study red planet’s early geological
evolution. It is terrestrial planet explorer that will address one of most fundamental issues of
planetary and solar system science. It will help in understanding processes that shaped rocky planets
of inner solar system (including Earth) more than four billion years ago. The robotic lander will
perform a radio science experiment to study internal structure of Mars by deploying seismometer
and a burrowing heat probe. It will measure Mar’s vital signs such as pulse (seismology), temperature
(heat flow probe) and reflexes (precision tracking). It will let scientists understand how different its
crust, mantle and core are from Earth.
ISRO successfully launches GSAT-6A satellite
March 30, 2018
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched GSAT 6A communication
satellite on board of GSLV-F08 rocket from Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh. This was overall 12th GSLV
flight (and fifth successful) and sixth flight with indigenously built cryogenic upper stage engine.
GSAT-6A
GSAT-6A is high power S-band communication satellite with a mission life of about 10 years. It was
placed in Geosynchronous orbit of
Earth. It weighs 2066 kg and is most powerful home-made communication satellite till date. It is
similar to GSAT-6 is a high power S-band communication satellite that was launched back in 2015.
The S-band’s antenna of GSAT-6A was developed by ISRO’s Space Applications Centre, Ahmedabad.
It also has smaller 0.8-metre antenna for communication in the C band. It will provide mobile
communication to India through multi beam coverage facility.
It will also provide platform for developing technologies such as demonstration of S-Band Unfurlable
Antenna, handheld ground terminals and network management techniques that could be useful in
satellite based mobile communication applications. It will be also designated for military use
especially in remotest areas of the country.
Special feature of GSAT-6A: It has 6-metre-wide umbrella-like antenna that will be unfurled in
space. The antenna is thrice as broad as antennas generally used in ISRO satellites. It will enable
mobile communication from anywhere via hand-held ground terminals. It will require small ground
station as regular communication satellites with smaller antenna require much larger ground
stations.
S-Band
S-band is electromagnetic spectrum covering frequencies from 2 to 4 gigahertz (GHz). It is very
useful and is used globally for 4G service and is extremely valuable for mobile broadband services. It
crosses conventional boundary between Super High Frequency (SHF) and Ultra High Frequency
(UHF) bands at 3.0 GHz.
Update: On April 1, 2018, ISRO confirmed that it had lost contact satellite GSAT-6A in the aftermath of second orbit-

raising exercise.
Government launches Swachh Bharat Summer Internship

March 30, 2018
Government is going to launch Swachh Bharat Summer Internship (SBSI) 2018 aimed at engaging
college youth with Swachhata work in villages in coming Summer vacation. The initiative will be
launched by Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation, the convening and coordinating Ministry of
Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) in association with Ministry of Human Resource Development.
SBSI 2018
SBSI 2018 aims to engage lakhs of educated youth across country, develop their skills and orientation
for sanitation sector, amplify mass awareness and cement people’s movement (Jan andolan) aspect of
SBM. Under it, candidates will undertake 100 hours of activities including shramdaan, creation of
sanitation infrastructure, system building, behaviour change camiagns and other IEC initiatives in
and around nearby villages.
The best internships will be recognised at college, University, State and National levels. Every intern
who completes the SBSI will also be provided a Certificate of Internship by the Swachh Bharat
Mission. 2 credit points as an ‘elective’ under Choice Based Credit System (CBCS) will be awarded to
students in Higher Educational Institutions undertaking and completing SBSI.
March 31, 2018
PFMS portal processes record transactions on single day
March 31, 2018
The Public Financial Management System (PFMS) portal has processed record Rs 71,633 crore
transactions on a single day. This was a historical record breaking volume of digital transactions
achieved by PFMS.
Public Financial Management System (PFMS)
It is end-to- end solution for processing payments, tracking, monitoring, accounting, reconciliation
and reporting. It is implemented by Controller General of Accounts and administered by the
Department of Expenditure, both in Ministry of Finance. Various ministries/departments utilise this
platform to monitor utilisation of funds provided to the implementing agencies and states
governments.
It provides unified platform to scheme managers for tracking releases and monitoring their last mile
utilisation. It also provides single platform for efficient management of funds by tracking them and
real time reporting of expenditure and receipts through treasury and bank interface. It is also used
for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) payments under MGNREGA and other notified schemes of the
Centre.
SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act: Government to File Review Petition
March 31, 2018
Union law ministry is preparing to file a review petition against the Supreme Court’s ruling on the
Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 that puts a stop to
immediate arrests in complaints filed under its provisions.
Back ground
Previously, in an attempt to curb the misuse of SC/ST (Prevention of Atrocities Act, 1989) and protect
honest public servants Supreme Court gave following verdict:
An arrest is not mandatory under the SC/ST Act, and the automatic arrest has been scrapped.
The court further directed that public servants can only be arrested with the written permission of their
appointing authority. This was to protect public servants and private employees from arbitrary arrests under the
Atrocities Act
Supreme Court also ruled that before arresting a public servant under the Act, a preliminary investigation by an
officer not below the rank of deputy superintendent is a must
SC & ST (Prevention of Atrocities) Act
Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act was enacted in the year
1989. It is a comprehensive law which not only defines atrocities against SCs and STs but also make
several rules, regulations etc. for proper protection of these vulnerable classes. One of the provisions
of the law states that public servant (non SC/ST) neglecting his duties related to SCs/STs will be

punished with imprisonment for a term of 6 months to 1 year. Ministry of Social Justice is the nodal
ministry to enforce the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act.
Kaziranga National Park: Rhino population rises marginally
March 31, 2018
The recent census carried out in Kaziranga National Park, Assam has revealed that there was a
marginal increase in the population of the one-horned rhinoceros here.
As per census report, currently there are 2,413 rhinos in Kaziranga National Park registering a
marginal increase of 12 rhinos compared to last census. Out of the rhinos spotted, 642 are adult
males and 793 are adult females while sex of 206 adult rhinos could not be determined during the
census operation.
About Kaziranga National Park
Kaziranga national park is located in the Golaghat and Nagaon districts of Assam. The park is a home
to two-thirds of the world’s great one-horned rhinoceroses, which are listed as vulnerable on the IUCN
Red list of Threatened Species. It was designated with National Park status in 1968 and was declared
UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 for its unique natural environment. Kaziranga is also
recognized as an Important Bird Area by Birdlife International for conservation of avifaunal species.
Pakistan Test Fires Submarine Launched Cruise Missile BABUR
March 31, 2018
Pakistan Navy successfully test fired indigenously developed Submarine Launched version of Cruise
Missile (SLCM) BABUR. The missile was fired from an underwater dynamic platform, which
successfully hit its target with sharp accuracy. The missile also met all its flight parameters.
This is only the second time that Pakistan has announced a test of the submarine launched Babur-III
missile, with the first test being conducted in January 2017.
SLCM BABUR has a range of 450 KMs and is capable of delivering various types of payloads and
incorporates state of the art technologies including underwater controlled propulsion, advanced
guidance and navigation features.
Russia Conducts Another Test for ICBM Sarmat Missile
March 31, 2018
Russia has successfully test fired its latest nuclear Inter Continental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) RS-28
Sarmat. This missile can carry an array of warheads capable of dodging missile defenses. The test was
carried out at the Plesetsk Cosmodrome, as spaceport in the west of Russia, close to the Arctic Circle.
The ICBM Sarmat has the capacity to reach any point in the world. The missile will enter into service
by 2021.
Background
The RS-28 Sarmat is a heavy liquid-propellant ICBM capable of carrying nuclear charges. This missile
is under development in Russia since 2000ss. The objective of this development is to replace the
R-36M2 Voyevoda ICBM, which is Russia’s only Strategic Missile Force since 1988.
The name Sarmat is based upon the nomadic Sarmatian tribes which used to live between 6th and 4th
century BC in current territories of Russia, Ukraine and Kazakhstan.
Interstitium: Scientists discover new organ in human body
March 31, 2018
Scientists have discovered new organ in human body and have named it as ‘interstitium’. It will be
the 80th organ in the human body. It might be might be also the biggest organ in human body
It was discovered while doctors were investigating patient’s bile duct, searching for signs of cancer.
They had noticed cavities of this organ that did not match any previously known human anatomy.
The discovery of interstitium will help to explain how cancer spreads in body and pave way for new
ways to detect and treat the disease.
Interstitium
The new organ is network of interconnected, fluid-filled spaces all over the body. It is found
everywhere in human bodies, acting as shock absorber in all places where tissues are moved or
subjected to force. It is made up of both flexible (elastin) and strong (collagen) connective tissue
proteins, with interstitial fluid moving throughout. It lies beneath top layer of skin, but is also in
tissue layers lining gut, lungs, blood vessels, and muscles. The organ acts like shock absorber in all
places where tissues are moved or subjected to force to protect them from damage.

Functions: The new organ’s interstitial spaces are organized by collagen mesh which allows it to
shrink, expand making it as shock absorbers. It also acts as fluid ‘highway’ i.e. thoroughfares to
transport critical fluids within organs and around body. It also plays important role in carrying
lymph, a fluid that supports immunity and also travels through lymphatic vessels.
Chandra Bhushan Kumar appointed as Deputy Election Commissioner
March 31, 2018
Government has appointed senior bureaucrat Chandra Bhushan Kumar as Deputy Election
Commissioner. He will have tenure of five years. Bhushan is 1995 batch IAS officer of Union
Territories Cadre.
Election Commissioners
Election commission is multi member body and currently has three members including Chief
Election Commissioner (CEC). They all are appointed by the President for a term which is fixed by the
President.
Tenure: The service conditions and tenure of office of CEC and Election Commissioners are
determined by Act of parliament titled The Chief Election Commissioner and Other Election
Commissioners (Conditions of Service) Act, 1991. This act has fixed their term for 6 years or till age of
65 years, whichever is earlier.
Power/salary: The CEC and election commissioners 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 the Chief Election Commissioner and Election Commissioner, the matter is
decided by the Commission by majority.
Government appoints Vineet Joshi as first DG of National Testing Agency
March 31, 2018
Government has appointed former chairman of Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) Vineet
Joshi, as the first Director-General (DG) of the National Testing Agency (NTA). He will have tenure of
five years.
He is 1992-batch IAS officer of the Manipur cadre. Prior to this appointment, he was resident
commissioner of Manipur government. During his stint as CBSE chairman, he had introduced big
changes such as Continuous Comprehensive Evaluation (CCE) and making Class X board
examination optional.
National Testing Agency (NTA)
NTA was approved by the Union cabinet in November 2017. It is autonomous and self-sustained
premier testing organization to conduct entrance examinations for higher educational institutions in
India. It is registered as society under Indian Societies Registration Act, 1860.
Composition: NTA will be chaired by eminent educationist appointed by Ministry of Human
Resource Development. Its CEO will be Director General (DG) appointed by Government. Besides, it
has Board of Governors comprising members from user institutions.
Mandate: Conduct entrance tests entrusted to it by any department or ministry. Bring high
reliability and standardised difficulty level for assessing aptitude, intelligence and problem-solving
abilities of the students. It will relieve CBSE, AICTE and other bodies of responsibility of conducting
entrance examinations.
Operations: It will take over majority of the examinations conducted by CBSE from 2019 in phased
manner. It will start its operations with Joint Engineering Entrance (JEE) and National Eligibility and
Entrance Test (NEET UG) for admissions to medical and dental programmes from 2019.

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Balkrishna Doshi wins Pritzker Prize ....................................................................................................................................................................... 40

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India ranks 78th on WEF Energy Transition Index .............................................................................................................................................. 69

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Canadian mathematician Robert P. Langlands wins Abel Prize 2018 ............................................................................................................... 97

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Month Highlights: March – 2018

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TB Free India Campaign

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Hyderabad and Lucknow.

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NASA’s TESS Mission

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March 20: World sparrow day (WSD)

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Health Finance and Health Economy.

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is Defence Ministry’s highest decision-making body on procurement.

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Advance Pricing Agreement (APA) Scheme

India to face criminal prosecution.

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ICG C-162: Bharati Defence delivers interceptor boat to Coast Guard

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Myanmar puts off border agreement with India

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Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri, nominated for seven categories.

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followed by Nigeria with 14.9 MT.

Recent DDoS attacks

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