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Current Aﬀairs [PDF] - February 16-29, 2020

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News Headlines: February 16-29, 2020
Current Affairs – News Headlines: February 16, 2020
India
PM chairs meeting of Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) Society in New Delhi
Kerala govt. launches ‘Yodhavu’ (Warrior) mobile app for public to inform police about drug abuse
and distribution
Haryana: Ambala city bus stand renamed after late external affairs minister Sushma Swaraj
Maharashtra: Government Medical College in Latur to be named after former CM and Congress leader
late Vilasrao Deshmukh
Economy & Corporate
RBI board recommends aligning central bank’s accounting year (July-June) with the financial year
(April-March) from 2020-21
CREDAI launches ‘Credai Awaas’ app to connect homebuyers with its member developers to purchase
properties
CREDAI: Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India
World
US imposes sanctions on Sri Lankan Army Chief Lieutenant General Shavendra Silva for human rights
violation during civil war in 2009
Sports
77th Senior National Squash Championship in Chennai: Joshna Chinappa (women’s) and Saurav
Ghosal (men’s) win titles respectively
Bhawna Jat qualifies for Tokyo Olympics in women’s 20 km race walk after win at National Race Walk
Championships in Ranchi
Sweden’s Armand Duplantis improves his own men’s pole vault world record at 6.18 m in Glasgow
India win bronze in men’s event at the Asia Team Championships in Manila (Philippines)
PM In Varanasi
Inaugurates a 63-feet tall statue of former Bhartiya Jana Sangh leader Pt Deendayal Upadhyaya
Inaugurates the Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya Memorial Centre
Flags off IRCTC’s Mahakal Express that will connect the three Jyotirling pilgrim centres of Varanasi
(Kashi Vishwanath), Ujjain (Mahakaleshwar) and Omkareshwar
Inaugurates a 430-bed super speciality government hospital and a 74-bed psychiatry hospital at
Banaras Hindu University
Inaugurates ‘Kashi Ek Roop Anek’, a cultural arts and handicrafts exhibition, at the Pandit Deendayal
Upadhyay Hastkala Sankul
Attends centenary celebrations of Shri Jagadguru Vishwaradhya Gurukul
India
India-Bangladesh conduct joint military exercise SAMPRITI-IX at Umroi, Meghalaya on February
3¬–16
Filmfare Awards: ‘Gully Boy’ wins Best Film, Best Director: Zoya Akhtar, Best Male Actor: Ranveer
Singh and Best Female Actor: Alia Bhatt awards
Punjab Police launch ‘Appreciate and Commend’ scheme to honour diligent police officers
Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar meets his Norwegian counterpart Sveinung Rotevan
in Gandhinagar
Centennial Summit 2020 of Rotary India held in Kolkata on February 14-16
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Economy & Corporate
BioAsia 2020, Asia’s largest biotechnology and life sciences forum, being held in Hyderabad on
February 17-19; theme: ‘Today for Tomorrow’
Union Minister for Food Processing Industries Harsimrat Kaur Badal inaugurates India Pavilion at
GulFood 2020 in Dubai (UAE)
Sports
Uganda’s Joshua Cheptegei creates new world record in men’s 5km in 12 min, 51 sec at Monaco
$1,62,000 Bengaluru Open ATP Tennis Challenger tennis: Ramkumar Ramanathan & Purav Raja win
men’s doubles title; Australia’s James Duckworth wins men’s singles title
CMS COP 13
PM inaugurates Conference of Parties to the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species of
Wild Animals (CMS COP 13) at Gandhinagar
India will chair the presidency of (CMS COP 13) for three years starting February 17
Secretary-General of Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, Martha Rojas Urrego visits India for (CMS COP
13)
Mascot of CMS COP 13: ‘GIBI – The Great’ is based on the Great Indian Bustard
Theme of CMS COP 13: ‘Migratory species connect the planet and we welcome them home’.
India
SC orders govt to grant permanent commission and command postings to women Army officers
President visits Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu; inaugurates Jampore Sea Front Road and
Ayushman Bharat Wellness Centre in Daman
Election Commission awarded ‘Silver’ award for Excellence in Government Process re-engineering for
digital transformation from DARPG (Department of Administrative Reforms and Public Grievances)
CEC Sunil Arora names EC Sushil Chandra as his nominee for the proposed Delimitation Commission
for J&K
Bird ringing station to come up in Bihar for observation, monitoring and research on migratory birds
Haryana govt announces Rs 6 crore to those winning gold medals at Olympics
Pakistan issues visas to Hindu pilgrims to visit Shree Katas Raj temples in Punjab province’s Chakwal
district
Delhi Police, Uber launch Himmat Plus app for safety of people travelling in cabs
Economy & Corporate
4th National Conference on Review of Implementation of PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana)
held in Udaipur on February 17-18
RBI gets Rs 1.94 lakh cr bids for maiden Rs 25,000 crore LTROs (long-term reverse repo operation)
World Bank to give $450 million loan for Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABHY) – National Groundwater
Management Improvement Programme
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on February 17, 2020 reviewed the performance of four Defence
Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) engaged in shipbuilding – Kolkata-based Garden Reach
Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE), Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL), Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock
Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and Visakhapatnam-based Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL)
Fifteenth Finance Commission sets up High-Level Expert Group on Agriculture Exports with Sanjiv
Puri (Chairman and Managing Director, ITC) as its Chairman
CBIC (Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs) starts capturing district-wise data or origin of
export goods
IRFC (Indian Railway Finance Corporation) lists USD 1 bn medium-term notes on BSE-owned India

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International Exchange (India INX)
Moody’s Investors Service cuts India’s growth forecast to 5.4% for 2020 from 6.6% earlier in its
update on Global Macro Outlook
India’s economy was fifth largest in the world in 2019 with a GDP of $ 2.94 trillion: World Population
Review (US)
Suzuki Motorcycle India launches BS-VI compliant 125cc Burgman Street scooter priced at Rs 77,900
World
“3rd High Level Global Conference on Road Safety for Achieving Global Goals 2030” being held in
Stockholm on February 19-20; Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways and MSMEs Nitin
Gadkari representing India
Storm Dennis wreaks havoc across UK, parts of France
UAE issues reactor licence for Barakah nuclear power plant, the first in Arab world
Sports
India’s Koneru Humpy wins Cairns Cup chess tournament in US
“United by Emotion” unveiled as the motto of 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games
Northern Ireland’s Henry Gregg, Best Goalkeeper at FIFA World Cup in Sweden in 1958, dies aged 87
South African rugby legend Bryan Habana inducted into Laureus World Sports Academy
India
Kolkata-based GRSE (Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd) delivers anti-submarine warfare
stealth corvette INS Kavaratti to the Indian Navy
India-Norway Task Force on Blue Economy for Sustainable Development inaugurated
Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with CII participating at the ‘70th Berlin
International Film Festival’: February 20 to March 1
There has been a decline in population of 79% of Indian species of birds: State of India’s Birds Report
2020.
Centre renames the ‘Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses’ (IDSA) after late Defence Minister
Manohar Parrikar
Foundation stone for a 50-metre high lighthouse at Dhanushkodi (Tamil Nadu) laid by Union MoS for
Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya
AP CM Jagan Mohan Reddy February launches Nadu Nedu (meaning ‘then and now’ in Telugu)
scheme to improve quality standards in government hospitals
Veteran Kannada actor Kishori Ballal dies at age of 82 in Bengaluru
AICTE bars universities from offering PGDM and MBA courses simultaneously
Economy & Corporate
Total foodgrain production is pegged at a record 291.95 million tonne for 2019-20 crop year, higher
than 285.21 million tonnes in 2018-19: Agriculture Ministry
Soil Health Card Day to be observed on February 19; Soil Health Card Scheme was launched by PM on
February 19, 2015
Shree Cement will replace Yes Bank in the benchmark index Nifty 50 from March 27
Supratim Bandyopadhyay appointed Chairman of PFRDA (Pension Fund Regulatory and Development
Authority)
Bain and Co. and Google release report ‘Women Entrepreneurship in India—Powering the economy
with her’
Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India starts delivery of its scooter Forza 300

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World
Afghanistan’s election commission declares Ashraf Ghani re-elected President in September 28, 2019
poll
Pakistan conducts flight test of air launched nuclear-capable cruise missile Ra’ad-II with a range of
600 km
Australia appoints Barry O’Farrell as the next high commissioner to India
Sports
Asian Wrestling Championships in New Delhi: India’s Sunil Kumar wins gold in 87kg Greco-Roman
Badminton Asia Team Championships in Manila (Philippines): South Korea win men’s event; Japan
win women’s event
48 sportspersons selected for Maharashtra government’s Shiv Chhatrapati Award for 2018-19
2020 Laureus Sports Awards
British F1 driver Lewis Hamilton and Argentinean footballer Lionel Messi were joint winners World
Sportsman of the year award
American gymnast Simone Biles won the World Sportswoman of the year award
Snowboarding player Chloe Kim (US) won the World Action Sportsperson of the year award
Oksana Masters (US) won the Sportsperson of the year award with a Disability
South Bronx United (SBU), a football programme based in New York, won Sport for Good Award
South Africa’s Rugby team won Laureus World Team of the Year Award
Germany’s F3 driver Sophia Florsch won the World Comeback of the Year award
Colombian cyclist Egan Bernal won the World Breakthrough of the Year award
German basketball great Dirk Nowitzki won the Lifetime Achievement Award
Spanish Basketball Federation got the Exceptional Achievement Award
India
Sanjay Kothari, Secretary to the President, selected as the new Central Vigilance Commissioner
Information Commissioner Bimal Julka selected as the new Chief Information Commissioner in the
Central Information Commission
Phase II of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) approved; focus will be on ODF Plus (Open
Defecation Free Plus), which includes ODF sustainability and SLWM (Solid and Liquid Waste
Management)
Cabinet approves Constitution of 22nd Law Commission of India for a term of three years
Govt, to set up 12-Member Technology Group with the Principal Scientific Adviser to Government of
India as its Chair
Shri Ram Janmabhoomi Tirth Kshetra Trust: Mahant Nritya Gopal Das elected president; Champat Rai
general secretary, Nripendra Misra (ex-bureaucrat) will be head of temple construction committee
elevates Gujarat-based BISAG (Bhaskaracharya Institute of Space Applications and Geoinformatics)
to a national institute under MEITY (Ministry of Electronics & Information Technology)
The railways to run a special tourist train — Shri Ramayana Express – from New Delhi from March 28:
IRCTC
SC directs Rajasthan government to stop rampant illegal sand mining in the state
Tamil Nadu govt. to celebrate former CM J. Jayalalithaa’s birth anniversary on February 24 as ‘State
Women Children Protection Day’
Tamil Nadu govt. to provide 50% subsidy for ‘Ulemas’ to buy new two-wheelers; doubles their pension
to Rs 3,000
Kamal Kishore, Krishna Vatsa, Rajendra Singh, Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Syed Ata Hasnain appointed new

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members of the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), for a 5-year term
Economy & Corporate
Cabinet approves revamping of PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana) and RWBCIS
(Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme) for better implementation of crop insurance
schemes
Soil Health Card Day celebrated on February 19; Govt to launch Tilhan Mission to boost oilseed
production
CCEA approves upward revision of interest subvention from “upto 2%” to “upto 2.5% p.a.” under the
scheme Dairy processing and Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF)
to set up 10,000 new farmer produce organisations (FPOs) by 2024 with budgetary support of Rs
4,500 crore
India will stop importing thermal coal from 2023-24: Union Minister of Coal and Mines Pralhad Joshi
Sports
Ashu (men’s 67kg), Aditya Kundu (men’s 72 kg) and Hardeep (men’s 97 kg) win bronze medals for
India in Greco-Roman at the Asian Wrestling Championships in New Delhi
India selected as host of 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup by the Asian Football Confederation’s
Women’s Committee
India
Statehood Day of Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh celebrated, both got statehood on February 20,
1987
Great Indian Bustard, Asian Elephant and Bengal Florican classified as “endangered migratory
species” by the UN’s Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species
IRCTC-operated Varanasi-Indore Kashi Mahakal Express starts its commercial run; connects
Jyotirlinga Omkareshwar (near Indore in MP), Mahakaleshwar (Ujjain, MP) and Kashi Vishwanath
(Varanasi in UP)
10th edition of Bharatiya Chhatra Sansad (Indian Student Parliament) being organised in New Delhi
on February 20-23
Ideal Legislative Assembly Speaker/Ideal Legislative Council Chairman Award presented to the
Speaker of the Kerala Legislative Assembly P. Ramakrishnan at Bharatiya Chhatra Sansad
Railway Board, University of Birmingham of UK launch Joint Masters programme in Railway Systems
Engineering and Integration at Vadodara-based National Rail Transportation Institute (NRTI)
World Bank releases report “Delivering Road Safety in India” at the ‘Third Global Ministerial
Conference on Road Safety’ in Stockholm
Economy & Corporate
RBI approves appointment of Sunil Gurbaxani as MD & CEO of Dhanlaxmi Bank
Banks Board Bureau recommends G.R. Chinatala as the next Chairman of NABARD (National Bank for
Agriculture and Rural Development)
Biocon CMD Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw named EY Entrepreneur of Year 2019
World
Indian freelance reporter Ahmer Khan named winner of the 2019 Agence France-Presse (AFP) Kate
Webb Prize
Sweden creates two Food Planet Prize prizes, each worth USD 1 million, for solutions to feed billions
of people
Larry Tesler, the computer pioneer who created the cut, copy and paste features, dies at 74
UNESCO celebrating International Mother Language Day on February 21 with theme as ‘Languages

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without Borders’; day celebrated as Matribhasha Diwas in India
World Day of Social Justice celebrated by UN on February 20; theme: “Closing the Inequalities Gap to
Achieve Social Justice”
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar opens the India Pavilion at Berlin International Film Festival in
Germany
India will be the Guest of Honour at the International Tourism Fair of Madagascar in June
South Sudan president Salva Kiir, rebel leader Riek Machar agree to form unity government
Sustainability Index
India was ranked 77th while Burundi was first on Sustainability Index that takes into account per
capita carbon emissions and ability of children in a nation to live healthy lives.
Index released by the World Health Organization (WHO), UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and The Lancet
medical journal.
Child Flourishing Index
India was ranked 131st while Norway was first on Child Flourishing Index that measures the best
chance at survival and well-being for children.
Index released by the World Health Organization (WHO), UN Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and The Lancet
medical journal.
Sports
Asian Wrestling Championship in New Delhi: Sarita Devi (59kg), Pinki Jangra (55kg), Divya Kakran
(68kg) win gold, Nirmala Devi (50kg) wins silver in women’s freestyle category.
Espn Multi-Sports Awards
Badminton player P. V. Sindhu wins ESPN’s ‘Female Sportsperson of the Year’ award
Shooter Saurabh Chaudhary wins ESPN’s ‘Male Sportsperson of the Year’ award
Women’s sprinter Dutee Chand won the ‘Courage’ award
Women’s chess player Koneru Humpy won the award for the ‘Comeback of the Year’
Wrestler Deepak Punia won ‘Emerging Sportsperson of the Year’ award
Pullela Gopichand claimed the ‘Coach of the Year’ award
Hockey legend Balbir Singh (Senior) won ‘Lifetime Achievement’ award
India
Defence Minister lays foundation stone of new Army Headquarters ‘Thal Sena Bhawan’ at Delhi Cantt.
Country’s first floating jetty inaugurated in Panaji, Goa on the banks of Mandovi river by Union
Minister of State for Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya
Retired IAS officers Bhaskar Khulbe and Amarjeet Sinha appointed as Advisors to PM
Home Minister of Maldives Sheikh Imran Abdulla visits India
IRSDC (Indian Railway Stations Development Corporation) installs squat machine at Anand Vihar
Railway Station in New Delhi; free platform ticket for anyone performing 30 squats in 180 seconds
Economy & Corporate
BRICS CCI (BRICS Chamber of Commerce & Industry) hold Annual Direct Tax Summit & Awards 2020
in New Delhi; Dharampal Satyapal Limited won the award for Best In-House Direct Tax Team of the
Year
US-India Business Council (USIBC) appoints Vijay Advani as new Chair of its Global Board of Directors
IRCTC’s online chatbot ‘ASKDISHA’ upgraded to converse with Railway customers in Hindi language
Organic Food Festival being organised by centre at the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, in New Delhi from
February 21 to 23

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World
Global terror financing watchdog FATF (Financial Action Task Force) decides continuation of
Pakistan in the ‘Grey List’
Ireland’s Prime Minister (Taoiseach) Leo Varadkar resigns after his Fine Gael party came third in
general elections
Sports
Army RED Ice Hockey team win 9th National Ice Hockey Championship in New Delhi
India’s women’s medal winners at Asian Wrestling Championship in New Delhi on Feb 21: Sakshi
Malik (65kg, silver), Vinesh Phogat (53kg, bronze), Anshu Malik (57kg bronze) and Gursharan Preet
Kaur (72kg, bronze).
New Zealand’s Ross Taylor becomes first cricketer to play 100 matches in all three formats of the
game — Test, ODI & T20
33-year old spinner Pragyan Ojha retires from cricket; took 113 wickets in 24 Tests between 2009 and
2013
India
International Judicial Conference 2020 held at the Supreme Court in New Delhi; PM speaks on the
theme ‘Judiciary and the Changing World’
4th edition of ‘The Huddle’ – annual thought conclave of the Hindu – organised in Bengaluru
Book ‘Who is Bharat Mata’, authored by Purushottam Agrawal & Radha Krishna, released
Vice President releases book titled ‘Death -An Inside Story’ at the Isha Yoga Center in Coimbatore
Dadasaheb Phalke International Film Festival Awards 2020: Best Film: ‘Super 30’, Best Actress: Dia
Mirza for ‘Kaafir’, Hrithik Roshan: Best Actor for ‘Super 30’
SC appointed interlocutors Santosh Hegde, Sadhana Ramachandran and Wajahat Habibullah (former
CIC) continued talks with Anti-CAA (Citizenship Amendment Act) protesters at Shaheen Bagh area in
New Delhi
Economy & Corporate
First anniversary of the launch of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme to be
observed on February 24
Under PM-KISAN, an amount of Rs.6000 per year is provided in three 4-monthly instalments of
Rs.2000 to poor farmers
World
Meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors from G20 nations being held in Riyadh on
February 22-23
South Sudan rebel leader Riek Machar sworn in as first vice president in capital Juma
Sports
India’s men’s medal winners at Asian Wrestling Championship in New Delhi on Feb 22: Satywart
Kadian (silver, 97 kg), Gourav Baliyan (silver, 79 kg) and Bajrang Punia (silver, 65 kg)
Alireza Firouzja of Iran wins Prague Chess Festival tournament; Indian Grandmaster Vidit Gujrathi
finishes 2nd
Yulimar Rojas of Venezuela sets new indoor women’s triple jump world record of 15.43m in Madrid
Pakistan government to confer honorary citizenship on former West Indian captain Darren Sammy
Former India footballer Ashok Chatterjee dies in Kolkata at the age of 78
1st Khelo India University Games being held in Bhubaneswar from February 22 to March 1
Rajlaxmi Singh Deo elected as the president of the Rowing Federation of India

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India
Adline Castelino of Mangalore crowned winner of LIVA Miss Diva Universe 2020 competition in
Mumbai
Economy & Corporate
US surpasses China to become India’s top trading partner with bilateral trade at $87.95 billion in
2018-19
World
Pakistan inaugurates first-ever Afghan transit cargo train service connecting Karachi to Kandahar
Sports
Indian Grandmaster D. Gukesh wins Cannes Open chess tournament in France
ITTF World Tour Hungarian Open table tennis in Budapest: India’s Achanta Sharath Kamal and
Gnanasekaran Sathiyan win silver medal in men’s doubles
Tyson Fury of Britain defeats Deontay Wilder of US to win World Boxing Council heavyweight title in
Las Vegas
Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece wins men’s singles title at Marseille tennis tournament
IDBI Federal Life Insurance New Delhi Marathon: Rashpal Singh (2:23:29) and Jyoti Gawte (2:50:37)
won the men’s and women’s races respectively
NTT ASTC Triathlon Asian Cup in Chennai: Serbia’s Ognjen Stojanovic and Barbara Riveros of Chile
won in men’s and women’s sections respectively
Asian Wrestling Championship in New Delhi: India’s Ravi Dahiya won gold in men’s 57 kg freestyle;
Jitender Kumar won silver medal in men’s 74kg freestyle, bronze medals won by Deepak Punia in
men’s 86kg freestyle, Rahul Aware in men’s 57 kg freestyle.
Trump Visit
PM Modi and US President Donald Trump addressed a gathering of more than one lakh people at the
Sardar Patel Stadium in Motera near Ahmedabad at the Namaste Trump event.
Trump and his family members visited Sabarmati Gandhi Ashram in Ahmedabad and Taj Mahal at
Agra in Uttar Pradesh.
Vishwakarma Awards
Union HRD Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’ presented Vishwakarma Awards 2019 to the winners
in New Delhi
The awards function was organised by All India Council for Technical Education (AICTE)
Chatra Vishwakarma Awards (CVA) were given to students and mentors
Institutes were felicitated under the Utkrisht Sansthan Vishwakarma Award (USVA)
India
UP Sunni Central Waqf Board accepts five acres land for mosque in Ayodhya, to form trust to oversee
construction
Union Rural Development Minister Narendra Singh Tomar inaugurates the 4th anniversary celebration
of Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission with the theme ‘Aatma Gaon Ki, Suvidha Sheher Ki’
Training course on Vessel Search Technique is being organized by the Indian Coast Guard jointly with
the Australian Border Force began in Chennai from February 24 to 28
AP Govt. launches ‘Jagananna Vasathi Deevena’ scheme of providing financial assistance for the
hostel and mess charges of college students
Tripartite MoU signed between NMCG, Uttarakhand Govt & Indorama Trust for development of Ghats
at Gangotri and Badrinath

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International Conference on Banana 2020 organised in Tiruchirappalli (Tamil Nadu) on February 21-24
AAP leader Ram Niwas Goel unanimously re-elected as the Speaker of Delhi Assembly
Economy & Corporate
CCI approves acquisition of 100% of issued and paid-up share capital of NEEPCO (North Eastern
Electric Power Corporation) by NTPC from the govt.
NTPC gets CCI approval to acquire 74.50% of issued and paid-up share capital of THDC India Ltd
from the govt.
Minister of Petroleum & Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan meets US Energy Secretary Dan Brouillette
in New Delhi
Future Decoded CEO Summit held in Mumbai; RIL Chairman Mukesh Ambani and Microsoft CEO Satya
Nadella participated
Abhay Kumar Singh appointed CMD of NHPC
Chinese handset maker Realme launches first 5G smartphone models in India
Central Excise Day 2020 observed by CBEC (Central Board of Excise and Customs) on February 24
World
Malaysia: 94-year old Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad resigns after a bid by his allies to bring
down the government
Togo: President Faure Gnassingbe re-elected for a fourth term in power
Sports
New Zealand (348, 9/0) beat India (165, 191) by 10 wickets in the opening Test at the Westpac
Stadium in Wellington on the third day to take a 1-0 lead in the two-match series on February 24,
2020.
India to host Commonwealth shooting, archery events at Chandigarh in January 2022; medals to be
counted in Birmingham Commonwealth Games (July 27 to August 7, 2022) tally
Trump Visit
Several deals and MoUs were signed during the India visit of US President Donald Trump
India will buy six AH-64E Apache helicopters from US company Boeing for USD 800 million
India will buy 24 MH-60 Romeo helicopters from US company Lockheed Martin for USD 2.6 billion
MoU on the safety of medical products signed between Central Drugs Standard Control Organization
and the US Food and Drug Administration
Letter of Cooperation signed between Indian Oil Corporation Ltd and Exxon Mobil India LNG Ltd and
Chart Industries Inc, US.
India
First ‘National Conference on Coastal Disaster Risk Reduction and Resilience (CDRR&R) – 2020’
organised by NIDM (National Institute of Disaster Management) in New Delhi
Chhattisgarh: Union Jal Shakti Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat inaugurates newly constructed
building of the Rajiv Gandhi National Ground Water Training and Research Institute in Nava Raipur
Minister of State for Home Affairs, G Kishan Reddy inaugurates National Cyber Research, Innovation
& Capacity Centre at CDTI campus in Hyderabad
Chief of Defence Staff General Bipin Rawat pays tribute at the National War Memorial in New Delhi on
its first anniversary
Bihar assembly passes unanimous resolution saying there was no need for NRC (National Register for
Citizens) in the state and updating of NPR (National Population Register) should be done according to
the 2010 format
MP becomes 1st first state in the country to launch unified vehicle registration card and 2nd to

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launch a unified driving license after UP
MP govt. more than doubles the honorarium paid to Muslim clerics (from Rs 2,200 to Rs 5,000 per
month) and muezzins (from Rs 1,900 to Rs 4,500) in the state
Economy & Corporate
10 lakh smart meters installed across India under Centre’s Smart Meter National Programme (SMNP)
implemented by EESL (Energy Efficiency Services Limited: Minister of State (IC) for Power, New &
Renewable Energy R.K. Singh
Labour Ministry to launch mobile app ‘Santusht’ to address issues of beneficiaries of ESI (Employees
State Insurance) scheme
RBI allows Bandhan Bank to expand its branch network after baring it in September 2018 for not
complying with the licensing conditions that required reduction in promoter stake in the bank from
82% to 40%
TransUnion CIBIL, a credit information company operating in India, appoints Rajesh Kumar as new MD
& CEO
World
Malaysia: 94-year old Mahathir Mohamad resumes work with a new title of interim prime minister, a
day after resigning
13-day-long Indo-UK joint military exercise — Ajeya Warrior – conclude in Salisbury (UK)
Tibetans celebrating Losar, the New Year of the community, from February 24 to 26
Hosni Mubarak, Egypt’s President from 1981 to 2011, dies aged 91 in Cairo
Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Egypt end postal blockage against Qatar; the 3 nations along with UAE had
severed all diplomatic, trade and transport ties with Qatar in June 2017
World’s oldest man Chitetsu Watanabe dies at the age of 112 in Japan
Indian-American Ajay Banga to step down as President & CEO of MasterCard and become Executive
Chairman from January 1, 2021. Michael Miebach will be the new CEO
Sports
First-ever Khelo India Winter Games inaugurated in the Union Territory of Ladakh at Leh
Surrogacy Bill
Union Cabinet approves major changes to the Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill, 2020
Not only close relatives but any woman who is “willing” would be allowed to act as a surrogate
A widow or divorced woman will also have a right to surrogacy apart from infertile Indian couples
India
HRD Ministry launches ‘Higher Education Leadership Development Programme for Administrator’ for
functionaries in Universities
IAF and Britain’s Royal Air Force conducting 5th edition of Ex Indradhanush at Air Force Station
Hindan on February 24-29
Labour Minister Santosh Gangwar lays foundation stone of a 100-bedded ESIC (Employees’ State
Insurance Corporation) hospital at Kakinada (AP)
Jawed Ashraf appointed as the next Ambassador of India to France
to organise a summit on Artificial Intelligence titled RAISE 2020 – ‘Responsible AI for Social
Empowerment 2020’ in New Delhi on April 11-12
Cabinet approves amendments to give occupancy rights to scheduled tribes in Lakshadweep
National Institutes of Food Technology at Kundli (Haryana) and Thanjavur (TN) to be accorded the
status of national importance
Cabinet gives its nod to order on adopting central laws in concurrent list for J&K

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Maharashtra International Education Board (MIEB), started by the previous BJP-led government, shut
down by the new Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) coalition of Congress-NCP-Shiv Sena
Economy & Corporate
Union Minister for Finance & Corporate Affairs Nirmala Sitharaman unveils EASE 3.0, an initiative of
PSBs, that seeks to enhance ease of banking in all customer experiences, using technology.
Food Processing Industries Ministry launches ‘Market Intelligence and Early Warning System (MIEWS)
Web Portal’ to enable ‘real time monitoring’ of prices of tomato, onion and potato
CCEA approves setting up a national technical textiles mission with a total outlay of Rs 1,480 crore
Power PSU NTPC to provide Rs. 80 crore financial support for installation and commissioning of 25
CAAQMS (Continuous Ambient Air Quality Monitoring Stations) across 6 states and 3 UTs
Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) launches self-charging hybrid electric MPV Vellfire at Rs 79.5 lakh
Jaguar Land Rover (JLR) starts bookings of the new Land Rover Defender priced from Rs 69.99 lakh
World
Sri Lanka announces withdrawal from a UNHRC resolution that called for accountability to human
rights abuses committed during the nation’s civil war with the Tamil separatists that ended in 2009
Slovenia: Janez Jansa of the Slovenian Democratic Party (SDS) appointed as new PM
Sports
32-year old Russian women’s tennis player and five-time Grand Slam champion Maria Sharapova
retires
India
Delhi High Court judge Justice S. Muralidhar transferred to the Punjab and Haryana High Court
Myanmar President U Win Myint meets PM Modi at Hyderabad House in New Delhi
Myanmar, India sign 10 MoUs out of which four are for construction of water supply systems, roads,
schools and solar power systems in Rakhine state
Union Cabinet approves 3 MoUs with Myanmar on ‘combating timber trafficking’, ‘conservation of
tigers & other wildlife’ and ‘in the field of petroleum products and communications’
‘Vajra’ offshore patrol vessel of the Indian Coast Guard commissioned in Chennai; was built by L&T
Shipbuilding
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh inaugurates new Light Combat Helicopter Production Hangar at HAL
Complex in Bengaluru
NITI Aayog supported Atal Innovation Mission, NASSCOM launch Artificial Intelligence-based learning
courses for students at Atal Tinkering Labs
UP Govt. to rename ‘Khwaja Moinuddin Chishti Urdu, Arabi-Farsi University’ in Lucknow as ‘Khwaja
Moinuddin Chishti Languages University’
Both houses of Mahrashtra Legislature pass resolutions asking the Centre to accord ‘classical
language’ status for Marathi
Mahrashtra Legislature passes bill making teaching of Marathi language compulsory for Class 1-
Class 10 students
Bihar Legislative Assembly passes resolution to conduct a caste-based census in the state
Guruvayur Padmanabhan, popular elephant of Guruvayoor Sreekrishna Temple in Kerala, dies at 80
KPP Samy, DMK MLA from Tiruvottiyur Assembly constituency, dies at 57
Renowned Vedic Scholar Sudhakar Chaturvedi passes away in Bengaluru
Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, 3 others appointed by LG Anil Baijal to represent police in cases
related to Delhi violence
US Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF)expresses concern over the violence in

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New Delhi
PETRONET MHB
ONGC and HPCL acquired the 34.56% stake of 8 PSBs in Petronet MHB Ltd for about Rs 371 crore.
ONGC and HPCL bought 17.28% stake each from the PSBs.
Both ONGC and HPCL had held 32.72% apiece in Petronet MHB
Petronet MHB Ltd owns a petroleum product pipeline in Mangalore
N-LRSI 2020
The National Council of Applied Economic Research (NCAER) releases NCAER Land Records and
Services Index (N-LRSI 2020)
As per N-LRSI 2020, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Tamil Nadu were the
five best-performing states in terms of digitisation of land records and their quality.
Economy & Corporate
India Post Payments Bank (IPPB) achieves milestone of two crore customers, was launched on
September 1, 2018 https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
World
IAF’s C-17 Globemaster returns from coronavirus-hit Wuhan, China with 112 evacuees, including 36
foreign nationals
119 Indians from coronavirus-hit Diamond Princess Cruise ship (docked off at Yokohama, Japan)
brought back in Air India flight
India
National Science Day celebrated with its theme as ‘Women in Science’; marks the discover of ‘Raman
effect’ by Sir C. V. Raman on February 28, 1928
11 chairs in names of women scientists to be established at institutes across country: WCD Minister
Smriti Irani
24th Meeting of Eastern Zonal Council (EZC) chaired by Home Minister Amit Shah in Bhubaneswar;
attended by CMs of Odisha, West Bengal and Bihar and Finance Minister of Jharkhand
Govt cancels notifications which deferred delimitation in Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal, Manipur
Punjab govt. to reduce retirement age of govt. employees from 60 years to 58, provide free education
for all students up to class 12th
UP: Local Area Development Fund for MLAs increased from Rs 2 crore a year to Rs 3 crore each
Tamil Nadu: S. Kathavarayan (58), DMK (Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam) MLA from Gudiyatham
constituency, dies
Historian Dr S. Shettar dies in Bengaluru aged 85
Indian Coast Guard’s offshore patrol vessel ICGS Varad commissioned in Chennai
NITI Aayog selects J&K for first pilot project among all States and UTs on Sustainable Developmental
Goals
‘Ayodhya Parv’ being organised at IGNCA (Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts) campus in New
Delhi from February 28 to March 1
Economy & Corporate
India’s foreign exchange reserves rise by $29 million to a fresh lifetime high of $476.122 billion in the
week to February 21
India’s GDP growth in third quarter of 2019-20 (October-December) at 4.7% (7-year low); growth
revised upwards for July-September quarter at 5.1% & 5.6% for April-June quarter
Eight core industries recorded 2.2% growth in January 2020; was 1.5% in January 2019
India’s fiscal deficit touched 128.5% of the whole year budget target at January-end

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Rs 9,000 crore IPO of SBI Cards and Payment Services to open for subscription on March 2
Power Minister R. K. Singh dedicates to the nation 11 Renewable Energy Management Centres
(REMCs)
Power Minister R. K. Singh inaugurates Northern Region Renewable Energy Management Centre (NR-
REMC) in New Delhi
Bengaluru to host 19th edition of World Productivity Congress (WPC) on May 6-8, 2020
Sumanth Kathpalia appointed new MD & CEO at IndusInd Bank
World
Cameroon People’s Democratic Movement (RDPC) of President Paul Biya wins parliamentary
elections in Cameroon
33 Turkish troops killed in air strikes in Syria’s northwestern Idlib province by forces of President
Bashar al-Assad.
February 16, 2020
ISRO to launch 10 Earth Imaging Satellites in 2020 including first Geo Imaging Satellite-1
On February 15, 2020, ISRO published its annual report 2019-20. According to the report, the Indian Space
Research Organization will launch 10 Earth Observation Satellites in 2020-21. It includes the first Geo
Imaging Satellite, GISAT-1.
Highlights
The report says that 18 communication satellites, 19 national Earth Observation satellites and eight
navigation satellites are in service. Out of these, 3 of these communication satellites are dedicated for
military communication.
For the year 2019-20, ISRO had planned for 17 missions. Out of these, six are yet to be completed and are
expected to be completed by March 31, 2020.
Annual Plan
According to the report, ISRO has planned 36 missions in the upcoming year. It includes six Earth
Observation satellites. The organization also has plans to add 8 Earth Observation satellites in 2021-22.
The Earth Observation satellites to be launched includes RISAT-2BR2. The RISAT-2BR2 with its fleet of
predecessors RISAT-2B and RISAT-2B1 will be placed 120 degrees apart. RISAT are Radar Imaging Satellites
that provide all weather surveillance using SAR (Synthetic Aperture Radars).
RBI Syncs Financial Year with the Fiscal Year
On February 15, 2020, the board of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) decided to sync the Financial year of the
bank with the Fiscal Year. The Fiscal Year begins in April and ends in March and the Financial year is
between July and June
Highlights
nd
The Central Board of Directors of RBI at the 582 meeting recommended aligning of Fiscal and financial
years. The alignment would change 8-decade practice of RBI.
Jalan Committee
The alignment was recommended by an expert committee led by Bimal Jalan. According to the committee,
the central bank will be able to provide estimates of the surplus transfers better after the alignment. This
will reduce the interim dividend that the RBI has to pay to the Government. However, the interim dividend
will be restricted to extraordinary circumstances. It will also bring in cohesiveness with the reports and
policy projections made by the RBI.
Why the move?
The Centre had been demanding for an interim dividend (between April to August) as its final balance sheet
is prepared in August. This was mainly because RBI had a different accounting year.

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PM Modi inaugurates 50 projects worth 1000 crores in Varanasi
On February 16, 2020, PM Modi inaugurated more than 50 projects that are worth 1000 crores in Varanasi. It
included 430 beds in a hospital at Banaras Hindu University, flagging off of Maha Kaal Express, 100 year
celebration of Jagadguru Vishwaradhya Gurukul and unveiling statue of Deendayal Upadhyay.
Highlights
PM Modi inaugurated Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Memorial Centre in Varanasi. Deendayal Upadhyay was a
former leader of Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the forerunner of the current BJP. In order to honor the leader, PM
also inaugurated a 63 feet tall statue that was made of Pancha Loha
What is Pancha Loha?
Panchaloha is an alloy of Copper, Zincm Gold, Iron and Silver. Some times lead or tin is used instead of
Zinc.
Maha Kaal Express
The Prime Minister also flagged off the Maha Kaal Express. It is the first overnight private train that will
connect three Jyotirling pilgrim centres. They are Ujjain, Varanasi and Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh.
February 17, 2020
India and Norway to work towards mitigating marine plastic littering
On February 16, 2020, at the CMS COP-13, the Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species
Conference of Parties-13, was marked by India. The Convention is to be held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat
between February 17, 2020 and February 22, 2020.
Highlights
On the sidelines of CMS COP-13, India and Norway declared the 2020-30 decade as the “Decade of rapid
action on Climate Change and Environment”. The countries will work together towards strengthening
mutual cooperation on climate and environment including ocean affairs.
The countries decided to work towards mitigating marine plastic pollution. This is to be done on the lines of
Kigali Amendment of Montreal Protocol and MoU signed between India and Norway under India-Norway
Ocean Dialogue (INOD). Under the MoU India-Norway Marine Pollution Initiative was adopted.
Kigali Amendment
In October 2016, the Montreal Protocol was signed by more than 170 countries in order to protect ozone
layer and climate. The Kigali Amendment to the protocol aims to phase down the Hydrofluorocarbons.
BioAsia Summit 2020 to be held in Hyderabad
The Government of Telangana is hosting Bio-Asia Summit 2020 in Hyderabad between February 17, 2020
and February 19, 2020. The main objective of the summit is to explore the capabilities of Life Science
Companies and their investments.
Highlights
The summit will be attended by researchers, investors, conglomerates, start-ups and health care
representatives. They will focus on the needs of the evolving Life Science industry.
The theme of the Summit is
Theme: Today for Tomorrow
Biotechnology in India
India is the third largest biotechnology destination in Asia Pacific. There are more than 523 USFDA (United
States Food and Drug Administration) approved Indian owned plants spread all over the world. This is the
second highest in the world.
Also, India is the largest supplier of BCG, DPT and measles vaccines.
In 2018, the value of biotechnology industry was 51 billion USD. It is currently growing at the rate of 14.7%
every year.

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Why is the summit important?
India is to become the most populous country in the world by 2030. The growing burden of diseases in the
country is increasing rapidly. GoI is planning on 200 billion USD infrastructure in the next decade. The
National Biopharma Mission will require strong workforce.
National Biopharma Mission
The National Biopharma mission was launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Science and Technology with the
assistance of World Bank. The mission estimated 250 million USD of investment in the field.
India marks the beginning of “Super Year of Biodiversity” with CMS COP 13
The year 2020 has been nick named as “Super Year” by global advocacy groups including the United
Nations. This has been done to highlight 21 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) and their targets.
India marks the “Super Year of Biodiversity” with the Conservation of Migratory Species Conference of
Parties 13. The year includes UN summit in September 2020 and will end in UN Biodiversity Conference in
the end of 2020.
Super Year
In Super Year, the SDGs of Climate, Ocean, Gender, life below water and land are to be implemented. Several
major initiatives to achieve these SDGs were taken by the United Nations. This year all such initiatives are to
be given special focus. They are as follows
Gender Equality
The Beijing Programme of Action marks 25th anniversary in 2020. It was framed in 1995 at the fourth
United Nation World Conference on Women.
The 64th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women is to be held in March
2020.
Climate Action
The COP 26 is to be held in Glasgow in 2020 to address the gaps that were undermined at COP 25
and also harmed the reputation of COP 25.
The first Global Transport on Sustainable Transport is to be held in May 2020
Life Below Water
The Strategic Plan for Bio Diversity 2011-20 comes to an end in 2020. It was adopted in 2010 at the
convention on Biological Diversity. In 2019, the Inter-governmental Science Policy platform published
the Global Assessment of State of Biodiversity and Ecosystem services. It listed 20 Biodiversity
Targets. They are now to be taken for implementation in 2020 as the plan end in 2020.
The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) is to hold World Conservation Congress in
Marseille, France in June 2020. It is being organized once on 4 years.
2020-A Decade of Closure (Ocean)
Apart from a new beginning, the 2020 will also close bio-diversity related agendas. It includes the
Decade for Deserts which marked the fight against desertification. This was marked by the UN
Convention to Combat Desertification.
The Second UN Ocean Conference is to be held in 2020. The first was held in 2017 in New York. Since
its first conference the community has been working on ocean acidification.
The First United Nations Biodiversity Summit CMS COP-13 in India: 3 Migratory Mammals
Targeted
India is all set to host the fist Biodiversity Summit of the United Nations. It is to be inaugurated by PM Modi
in Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat on February 17, 2020. The CMS COP-13, Convention on the Conservation of
Migratory Species Conference of Parties-13 is the only convention on migratory species.

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Highlights
The Agenda of the convention includes proposals on infrastructure of migratory mammals. The migratory
mammals to be focused in the summit includes Gobi bear, Persian Leopard and Urial. The summit will also
provide Biodiversity conservation to Ganges river Dolphins, great Indian Bustard and Asian Elephants.
Gobi Bear
The Gobi Bear is a sub species of Brown Bear. It is found in Gobi-desert of Mongolia. As far 2009, there
were only 30 adult Gobi Bears in the desert. The IUCN Red List categorizes Gobi Bear under Critically
Endangered.
Persian Leopard
The Persian Leopards are found in Iran, Afghanistan and central Asia. The IUCN Red List categorizes them
as Endangered. As of 2008, only 871 mature Persian Leopards were recorded. They are threatened by
poaching and illegal hunting.
Urial
Urials are wild sheep. They are found in western and Central Asia, that is, in Kazakhstan, Pakistan and India.
The IUCN Red List categorizes them as Vulnerable.
United Nations Bio Diversity Summit to discuss threats to Migratory Species from Infrastructural
Development
PM Modi is to inaugurate the Conference of Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS COP 13)
on February 17, 2020 in GandhiNagar, Gujarat. The 13th conference of Migratory Species is the first meet on
bio diversity. It is conducted under the theme
Theme: Migratory Species connect the planet and together we welcome them home
Highlights
The Conference will consider the need for implementation of guidance tools that will mitigate the impacts
of infrastructure on migratory species. So far, the infrastructural threats to large mammals was governed by
the Central Asian Mammals Initiative. The CMS Guidelines currently deals only with the underwater noises.
It does not include threats related to infrastructural development. Therefore, this conference will focus on
such threats and also aquatic species facing threats due to coastal developments such as roads,
restaurants and hotels. The conference will also discuss Turtle Nesting and the threats.
Significance
The discussion is important because there are more than 25 million kilo metres of new roads to be
constructed by 2050. This will increase by 60% as compared to the roads in 2010. In the next 40 years,
3,35,000 km of railway tracks are to be constructed.
CMS COP 13: Insects Decline to be discussed for the first time
The United Nations Conference of Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS COP-13) is to
discuss the effects of insects decline on migratory species for the first time.
Highlights
According to Convention on Migratory Species, around half of the insect species are declining. Also, the
third phase which is insect extinction is to begin. The IPBES (Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity
and Ecosystem Services) says that at the current rate, 40% of the world insect species will be extinct in next
few decades.
The insects play vital role in the functioning of ecosystems, especially for the insectivorous (the species
that feed on insects) migratory species. It mainly includes bats and birds.
Steps taken
The draft resolution has been presented by the European Union for the discussion at CMS COP 13. This will
help to understand insects die off and its effects on migratory species. The EUROBATS agreement is one

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such agreement that focuses on insect decline. However, it focuses on Conservation of Bats Population and
indirectly adopts resolution towards insect conservation to save bats. CMS COP 13 will be the first
convention to focus on insects on a larger scale.
Government of Haryana provides Rs 15 lakhs to Olympic participants and Rs 6 crore to winners
On February 16, 2020, the State Government of Haryana announced that it will provide Rs 6 crores to gold
medal winners at Olympic Games. The cash money prize is only for players representing Haryana.
Highlights
The State Government of Haryana has offered to provide the Olympic players with prize money. It will
provide Rs 15 lakhs to every player participating at the Olympic Games 2020. The Government has also
increased the prize money for players participating at Asian Games and Common Wealth Games.
The Gold Medalists of Asian Games are to be provided with Rs 3 crores. The winners of Common Wealth
Games are to be provided with Rs 1.5 crores.
Above all, the stadium of the players are also to be provided with 10% of the amount received by the players
Pension
The Government has also announced pension system for the players. This is an additional assistance to
players apart from the cash money. Also, the government will provide pension to national award winners
such as Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Awards, Dhyanchand and Arjuna Awards
Supreme Court permits Permanent Commissioning of Women Officers in Defence
On February 17, 2020, the Supreme Court of India upheld the judgement of Delhi High Court over the issue
of commissioning of women officers in Indian Army.
Highlights
The Supreme Court has granted permission to commission women officers in the Indian Army.
Earlier, permanent service commission for women were not allowed, especially in combat units. They were
pertained to combat support units such as law, education and logistics. Also, women were not appointed at
the level of officers in the combat units.
The judgement was pronounced by Justice D Y Chandrachud.
Background
The High Court of Delhi in 2010 had instructed the GoI to provide permanent commissioning of women
officers in the Indian Army. The GoI in 2010 had argued that women are physiologically weak and are not as
efficient as men when it comes to leading a combat unit. This was countered then and now by both Delhi
HC and the apex court.
Now, SC has upheld this ruling pronouncing that permanent commissioning is allowed to all women officers
irrespective of the years of services.
Chief of Navy Admiral Karambir Singh visits Myanmar
The Chief of Indian Navy Admiral Karamvir Singh is to visit Myanmar between February 17, 2020 and
February 20, 2020. During his visit, he will hold discussions with his Myanmar counterpart to enhance
bilateral maritime relations between the countries
Highlights
The Admiral is to interact with the trainees of the National Defence College in Nay Pyi Taw and will also visit
Training command of Myanmar Navy.
Significance
It is important for India to strengthen its bilateral ties with Myanmar especially in the field of maritime
because of strategic location of the country in Indian Ocean. Also, Myanmar is a member of Indian Ocean
Naval Symposium.

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Sittwe Port
India has constructed Sittwe port, a deep water port in Myanmar in 2016. The port along with the Kaladan
Multi Modal Transit Project is considered as an alternate to access North East India. So far, the Siliguri
corridor is the only way through which the Indian mainland is connected with the North East.
Therefore, it is important for India to secure the route to promote trade and transport through the route.
Indian Ocean Naval Symposium
The IONS is a series of biennial meeting among the states of Indian Ocean Region. The symposium acts as
a forum to strengthen maritime security cooperation. It consists of 24 members and they are grouped into 4
sub regions. The South Asian Sub region includes India, Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and
Seychelles. The West Asian Sub region includes Oman, Iran, Saudi Arabia and UAE. The East African Sub
Region includes Kenya, Mauritius, France, South Africa, Mozambique, Eretria, Tanzania. The South East
Asian and Australian Sub Region includes Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia, Timor Leste, Thailand, Singapore,
Myanmar and Malaysia.
Teams set up by Health Ministry to monitor Corona Virus in villages at Nepal Border
The Ministry of Health has constituted teams to examine for Corona Virus in villages that are bordering
Nepal. The spread of Corona Virus is increasing with number of people infected in China touching 70,000 as
of February 17, 2020.
Highlights
According to the Ministry of Health, the villages in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Bihar
and West Bengal are to be inspected for Corona Virus. The Ministry has formed 5 separate teams of doctors
from the National Centre for Disease Control.
National Centre for Disease Control
National Centre for Disease Control is an institute operating Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. It was
founded in 1963. The origin of the institute is tracked to the Central Malaria Bureau that was established in
1909 in Kasauli, British India. Today there are 14 centres operating under NCDC.
Global Economy
The IMF (International Monetary Fund) says that the virus will have significance effect over the global
economy. However, as the US-China trade war has subsided, the effects of the virus will be nullified by the
boosts of the improved trade between the two might economies of the world.
Ladakh and J&K to come under Central Administrative Tribunal
On February 17, the Minister of State in the PMO (Prime Minister Office) announced that the Union Territory
of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir are to be brought under the Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT). The
announcement was made by the Minister at the annual Conference of the tribunal.
Highlights
The CAT has so far had its jurisdiction only over the central services of Jammu and Kashmir. Till the GoI
sets up a CAT exclusively for J&K, the Chandigarh bench is to serve the Union Territory of Jammu and
Kashmir and Ladakh.
What is Central Administrative Tribunal?
The Central Jurisdiction Tribunal was established through 42nd amendment of Constitution. It works
towards adjudicating (judging) disputes that arise in case of recruitment or service of persons in public
services.
The provisions of CAT is not applicable to armed forces, Supreme Court employees, members of
Paramilitary forces and the staffs of Secretariats.
The provisions of CAT are included in Article 323A. Under the article, the GoI has powers to establish
administrative tribunals to solve the disputes.

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Atal Bhujal Yojana: GoI and World Bank signed loan agreement of 450 million USD
On February 17, 2020, the World Bank and the Government of India signed a loan agreement to support the
national programme that aims on strengthening ground water institutions and also arrest the depletion of
ground water resources.
Highlights
The project supported by the World Bank called the “National Ground Water Management Improvement
Programme” is to be implemented in the states of Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat,
Maharashtra, Karnataka and Haryana. The programme is to cover 78 districts. The districts were selected
based on degree of ground water depletion, degradation and exploitation of groundwater, institutional
readiness in implementing initiatives related to management of groundwater. The states were selected as
they span hard rock aquifers that are present in peninsular India and alluvial aquifers that are found in Indo-
Gangetic Plains.
Key Features of the Programme
The Programme is also called Atal Bhujal Yojana. It is a centrally sponsored scheme. Under the scheme the
World Bank will provide Rs 6,000 crores for sustainable management of groundwater. The scheme is
implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
US removed “Developing” Tag for India: What are its implications?
Recently, the United States of America removed the “developing” tag for dozens of countries. India is one
amongst them. These countries are to be classified as developed economies
Highlights
The “Developing” status for a country in the US is associated with US Trade Act, 1974. The act authorized
General System of Preferences (GSP). The intention of the system is to help the poor countries develop
faster. The act was later adopted by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and was extended to other rich
countries as well. In WTO, around two-thirds of the countries classify themselves as developing.
Background
Recently US had withdrawn India from its GSP listings. Under this preference there were more than 2,000
items that were of worth 6.3 billion USD. This affects India harshly. Hence, India has been asking the US to
re-include the GSP status. Unfortunately, US has permanently put an end to India’s GSP status by removing
it from the list of developing.
February 18, 2020
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: 4th National Conference held in Udaipur
On February 17, 2020, the fourth National Conference of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima yojana was held in
Udaipur, Rajasthan. The Conference was organized by Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
Highlights
The Conference was attended by more than 140 members. It included members from NABARD (National
Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development), RBI (Reserve Bank of India), insurance companies, etc.
Currently, the scheme has three active participants namely the state government, banking sector and the
insurance sector. According to the experts at the conference, for the scheme to achieve success, active
participation of all the three stakeholders is essential. https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
The scheme was launched in 2016. It replaced the Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme and
National Agricultural Insurance Scheme. Under the scheme the farmers are paid a premium of 2% for Kharif
crops and 1.5% for Rabi crops in case of crop damages. The scheme is in line with One Nation-One Scheme
theme.

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GoI: 5th Meeting of Task Force of Active Pharmaceuticals Ingredients discuss Corona Virus
On February 18, 2020, the Ministry of Shipping and Chemical Fertilizers held the fifth meeting of Task Force.
The Task Force discussed small, medium and large API units.
Highlights
The Ministry discussed on the availability of medicines and drugs to control the impacts of Corona Virus.
The Task Force also discussed and ensured that there shall be no shortage of drugs, medicines and APIs in
India.
What is API?
API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) are ingredients that are biologically active. Every drug is made of
two core components. One is the API and the other is the Excipient. The Excipients are the ingredients that
keep the drug stable for long term.
Currently India is dependent on China in importing APIs. Around Rs 12,255 crores of APIs were imported
from China in the year 2016-17. On the other hand, 80% of the raw materials for these drugs are sourced
from India.
Significance
Recently the prices of paracetamol, a common analgesic has jumped by 40% in India. The prices of other
antibiotics have also risen by 70%. This is mainly due to the outbreak of Corona Virus. Therefore, it is
important for the GoI to control these scenarios. The task forces assist the GoI in these situations to report
and control them.
India attends 3rd Global Conference on Road Safety held in collaboration with WHO, World Bank
On February 17, 2020, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari represented India at the
3rd global Conference on Road Safety. The Conference aimed at achieving Global Goals 2030. It was held in
Stockholm, Sweden.
Highlights
The conference was held in collaboration with WHO and World Bank. The conference aims at renewing the
commitment of the world community towards road safety. The participated leaders will prepare ways to
achieve UN Decade of Action of reducing road crashes by 2030.
The Decade of Action
The United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety was proclaimed in March 2010 for the decade
2011-20. The plan included 4 pillars as follows
To strengthen institutional Capacity
To improve road safety for pedestrians, motorcyclists and bicyclists.
To widely use crash avoidance technologies such as anti-lock braking system and electronic stability
control.
To encourage and develop adoption of road safety such as seat-belt wearing, helmet wearing,
speeding, drinking and driving, etc.
Need
According to the United Nations, more than 1.3 million people die every year due to road traffic crashes and
more than 20 to 50 million get injured.
What is Adjusted Gross Revenue?
There was a tussle between the Telecommunication industries and the GoI over the license fee settlement.
The Union Budget waived penalty for those who paid their interest charges over the disputed tax liabilities
before March 2020. The case over the license fee settlement was pronounced in favour of the GoI recently.
Following this, several companies like Airtel, Vodafone, TATA have recently paid their dues

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What is AGR?
Adjusted Gross Revenue are mainly collected from two main charges namely usage and licensing fee. Apart
from these fees, it also includes other revenues like profits, revenue from assets, etc.
The spectrum usage charges are pegged between 3% and 5%. The licensing fee is 8%.
However, since 2005, the Telecom companies have been registering cases in the apex court for proper
definition of AGR. In 2015, the SC ruled that AGR included dividend, capital receipts, miscellaneous income,
profit from sale of fixed assets, etc.
What was the tussle?
The New Telecom Policy 1999 says that the Telecom operators are required to pay a part of their AGR
(Adjusted Gross Revenue) to the GoI as License Fee. While GoI includes revenue from all the assets and
profits, the Telecoms argue that the charges under AGR should be pertained only to revenue generated from
Telecom services.
Economic Census begins at the National Capital Region
The seventh Economic Census was flagged off at the National Capital by the Ministry of Statistics and
Programme Implementation. This is the first time the Census is being carried out in Digital Platform. The
Ministry has tied up with Common Service Centres Network (CSCN) for the digital implementation of the
census
Highlights
Delhi is the 26th state where the Census is being launched. It is already in process in 20 states and 5 Union
Territories. At the capital, it will take three months for the census to complete. More than 1.5 lakh trained
volunteers are to visit more than 35 crore establishments to carry out the census.
National Economic Census
The Indian Economic Census is counting the entrepreneurial units involved in agricultural, non-agricultural
or any other economic activity. It provides information about the number of establishments in the country,
number of persons employed, type of ownership, finance, etc. So far, 6 economic censuses have been held.
They were in 1977, 1980, 1990, 1998, 2005, 2013. The seventh Census is the ongoing census that began in
2019.
14,100 tonnes of the rare metal, Lithium Reserves found in India
The researchers at the India’s Atomic Energy Commission have found Lithium Reserves of 14,100 tonnes in
Mandya. Mandya is 100 km away from Bengaluru, Karnataka. Being a very rare metal Lithium is mainly used
in manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles.
Highlights
The reserves found is very little as compared to the world’s leading producers of Lithium. Of the major
producers Chile produces 8.6 million tonnes, Australia produces 2.8 million tonnes and 1.7 million tonnes in
Argentina.
India’s Scenario
Currently, India imports 1.2 billion USD worth lithium batteries (2019). This has increased significantly. In
2017, India imported 384 million USD worth lithium batteries.
Issues
Though India has very little reserves of Lithium and are spread in different places, they can be of significant
use. But these reserves are not yet mapped. These reserves can be of good help to promote the clean-
energy wave in India. GoI is on the path of implementing 1.4 billion USD plan to make India a manufacturing
hub of electric vehicles.
Kala Kumbh: Exhibition to promote GI crafts and Heritage of India held in New Delhi
On February 18, 2020, the Ministry of Textiles organized “Kala Kumbh”. It is an exhibition to promote GI

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(Geographical Indication) crafts and heritage of India. These exhibitions are sponsored by the Export
Promotion Council for Handicrafts.
Highlights
The exhibition has been planned in several cities such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata. The
exhibition is being held exclusively for GI tag handicrafts. The GI tag is used on handicrafts that correspond
to specific geographical location. As of August 2019, around 178 handicrafts have been provided with GI
tag all over India.
The exhibition will include GI crafts such as Thrissur screw pine, Molakalmur hand block printing, Kolhapur
chappal, Dharwad Kasauti Embroidery, Anathapur leather puppet, etc. These are all GI tagged handicrafts.
Export Promotion Council
The Export Promotion Council are authorities that assist in promoting and supporting their products in
international market. They are non-profit groups. Every council is responsible for a particular group of
products.
India and Russia Defence Deals to cross 16 billion USD after DefExpo 2020
India and Russia have signed 14 MoUs during the DefExpo 2020. It included land, air, naval and other hi-tech
civilian products. With the agreements signed the Defence trade between the countries is to cross 16 billion
USD.
Highlights
The trade of 16 billion USD between the countries includes S400 missiles, Kamov helicopters and
Kalashnikov rifles. During the DefExpo 2020, India’s DRDO (Defence Research Development Organization)
signed deals with the Russia’s state run Rosoboron Export on advanced pyrotechnic ignition systems.
India also signed agreements with Russia in order to localize the components used in Kamov Ka-226
helicopters. This is not Technology Transfer. On the other hand, the components used in the helicopter will
be produced in India by Russian firm.
US Role
Despite the pressure from the US through CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions),
India has proceeded to establish strong defence deals with Russia. In fact, Russia was the largest foreign
contributor at DefExpo 2020.
February 19, 2020
Indian Bird Species have declined by 80% says State of India’s Birds Report at CMS COP 13
On February 18, 2020, the State of India’s Birds Report was released at the CMS COP 13. It assessed the
status of more than 867 birds. The report says that more than 80% of Indian bird species have declined in
the last 5 years. More than 15,000 bird watchers participated in the survey.
Highlights
According to the report, the highest decline of birds in India was found in vultures, eagles, warblers and
migrating shore birds. The report says that habitat loss and hunting are the two main reasons behind
decline in bird population. The report is first of its kind.
The report classified 101 species of birds as “High Conservation Concern”.
Stability
The stability in count was found only with house sparrows. Their population have gone up in rural areas. The
Indian peafowl was found in abundance according to the report. Around 48% of bird species in the country
were stable.
Assessment
The report was prepared based on three assessments namely long-term trend, measure of distribution
range and current annual trend.

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Long Term Assessment
Out of the 261 species that were assessed on long term basis, 52% of them declined since 2000. Only 43%
showed a long-term trend and were stable. Around 22% of them declined strongly.
Current annual Trend
The current annual trend was assessed over 146 species. Under this category, 80% of the birds declined and
50% declined strongly. Only 6% were stable and 14% were increasing in numbers.
Categories of Concern
The report with the help of IUCN Red List and the three indices classified the birds into three categories.
Around 442 of the birds were put under Low Concern Category, 319 in Modern Concern Category and 101 in
high concern category.
Who prepared the report?
The report was prepared by 10 research and conservation organizations. It included Wildlife Institute of
India, Natural History and Wetlands International South Asia, World Wide Fund for Nature India, Bombay
Natural History Society and Ashoka Trust for Research in Ecology and Environment.
February 19: Soil Health Card Day
In order to commemorate the launch of Soil Health Card Scheme, the GoI is marking Soil Health Card Day on
February 19, 2020. The Soil Health Card Scheme was launched by PM Modi on February 19, 2015.
Objectives
The Scheme was launched in 2015 to evaluate soil fertility. It was introduced to issue soil health cards
every two years. The aim of the scheme is to promote soil test in order to promote nutrient management.
Need
The deterioration of physical, chemical and biological health of the soil is considered as one of the main
reasons for decline in agricultural productivity in the country. The soils are currently holding negative
nutrient balance. This is to increase in the future and will decline the fertilizer response of the crop.
Therefore, it is essential to improve the soil health.
Soil Health-Other Measures
Soil Health Management
The Soil Health Management under taken by GoI under the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture
strengthens soil testing laboratories, establishes bio-fertilizers and compost units, demonstrations and
trainings on balanced use of fertilizers.
Nutrient Based Subsidy
The Nutrient based Subsidy scheme promoted fortified and customized fertilizers. Under the scheme so far
21 fertilizers have been included. The scheme aims at balanced use of fertilizers in order to maintain soil
health.
Development of Model Village
In the year 2019-20, the Development of Model Village project was taken up. Under the scheme, the soil
samples were collected from individual farmers rather than collecting from a cluster.
Success of Soil Health Card
In 2017, the National Productivity Council said that the Soil Health Card Scheme promoted sustainable
farming. This led to decrease in use of fertilizer application by 8 to 10%. Also, the overall yield of crops
increased by 5%. This major improvement was mainly due to application of fertilizers based on
recommendations of soil health cards.
5 years of Soil Health Card
Recently the Soil Health Card Scheme completed 5 years of success. Being launched at Suratgarh,
Rajasthan to improve health of the soil, the card provides information about the nutrient status of the soil to
the farmers.

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Since its launch, 110 crore soil cards have been issued.
Task Force Meet: India and Norway to strengthen their BLUE ECONOMY PARTNERSHIP
In January 2019, India and Norway jointly inaugurated a Task Force of Blue Economy for Sustainable
Development. The third meet of the task force was held on February 18, 2020.
They also launched a new collaboration of Integrated Ocean Management and Research at the meet.
Highlights
India and Norway have been strengthening their ties making Indo-Norwegian Ocean Cooperation as a key
pillar in their bilateral relationship. The task force aims at mobilizing stakeholders of India and Norway at
the highest level to ensure progress across ministries and agencies.
Significance
India being the largest democracy plays a major role in sustainable development both globally and
regionally. Also, 15% of Indian population residing in Norway are in the coastal region. Above all, 70% of the
Norwegian Economy depends on maritime industry of the country.
The task force was set up at the India Norway Business Summit.
India Norway Business Summit
The Summit was held in New Delhi in January 2019 during the visit of Norwegian PM to India. Around 15
MoUs were signed at the summit. It includes sustainable sea food production, smart grids, energy markets,
green shipping, digital solutions, etc. Green shipping is use of LNG.
National Institutes renamed after late Union Ministers Sushma, Arun Jaitley and Manohar Parrikar
The Government of India has been renaming the national institutes after late ministers. The leaders passed
away in 2019 due to health issues. They were Manohar Parrikar, Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj.
Objective of renaming
The renaming is being done in order to align the institutes on the lines of the vision of the late leaders.
Manohar Parrikar
Parrikar served as the Minister of Defence between 2014 and 2017. The Institute of Defence and Analyses
(IDSA) has been renamed as Manohar Parrikar Institute of Defence Studies. His biggest contribution was
the One Rank One Pension scheme for the armed forces.
IDSA
The IDSA was established in 1965. It was established for policy related studies in all aspects of defence
and security.
Sushma Swaraj
Sushma Swaraj served as the Minister of External Affairs. The Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New Delhi was
renamed as Sushma Swaraj Bhawan and also the Foreign Institute in New Delhi was renamed as Sushma
Swaraj Institute of Foreign Services.
Arun Jaitley
Arun Jaitley served as the finance minister. The National Institute of Financial Management was renamed
as Arun Jaitley National Institute of Financial Management. Also, in September 2019, the Delhi Ferozeshah
Kotla Cricket ground was renamed as Arun Jaitley Stadium.
Foundation Stone for Lighthouse at Dhanushkodi laid
On February 18, 2020, foundation stone for a 50-metre high foundation stone laid at Dhanushkodi in
Rameswaram. This is the fifth lighthouse in the region
Highlights
The light house is to be built at a cost of Rs 8 crore rupees. The lighthouse is to be located opposite to the
old church that was destroyed in a cyclone in 1964. It will facilitate navigation to 33 to 37 km from the sea
shore.

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A radar is to be fixed at the top of the light house for surveillance. The light house is to completely operate
with solar energy.
Significance
The lighthouse will help to guide fishermen and will also act as tourist attraction. The Light house is also
important for the naval commands. There are four Naval Commands namely Western Naval Command,
Eastern Naval Command, Southern Naval Command and Andaman and Nicobar Naval Command.
The INS Rajali and INS Agrani Naval Stations in Tamil Nadu operate under Southern Naval Command and
the light house will be of great help for them.
Dhanushkodi
Dhanushkodi is an abandoned town at the southern tip of India. The town was completely destroyed by the
Rameswaram Cyclone in 1964. The town is separated from the mainland by Palk Strait.
Pakistan Test Fires 600 km range Ra’ad II missile successfully
On February 19, 2020, Pakistan test fired 600 km range Ra’ad II missile successfully on land and at sea. The
missile range has been upgraded from 550km in 2017 to 600km. It is important for India to closely monitor
such advances as New Delhi is roughly 430km from Lahore.
Highlights
The first Ra’ad II missile was unveiled in an annual parade in Pakistan in 2017. Ra’ad I had a range of 35km.
The changes have been made significantly in the tail part of the missile. Ra’ad I had twin tail and was bigger
in size. The recently test fired Ra’ad II had “X” configuration.
So far, the Ra’ad missiles of Pakistan are being carried by Mirage II fighter jets. Indian experts believe that
Ra’ad II is Pakistan’s answer to Nirbhay cruise missile.
Nirbhay Cruise Missile
It is an all-weather missile that was designed and developed in India by DRDO (Defence Research
Development Organization). So far, India has completed six developmental trials of the missile. The next
test is to happen in April 2020.
IISc ranked 16th in Times Higher Education Ranking
On February 18, 2020, the Times Higher Education Ranking was released in London. The ranking was titled
“The Emerging Economies University Ranking 2020”.
Around 11 Indian Universities were included in the top 100. However, China had more Universities than India
in the ranking. Around 30 Universities of China were in the top 100.
Highlights
The Indian Institute of Science was ranked 16th among the top 100 Universities of emerging Economies. The
ranking included 533 Universities from 47 countries all over the world. Out of these, 56 Indian Universities
appeared in the ranking.
Institute of Eminence
The Scheme was launched by GoI in 2017. One of the participating institutes of the scheme Amrita Vishwa
Vidyapeetham entered the top 100 for the first time. It had moved 51 places from its ranking of 141 in 2019.
The Institute of Eminence scheme provides funding from the GoI. They possess greater autonomy.
Prestigious Institutes
The IIT Kharagpur moved up 23 places to 32nd rank, IIT Delhi improved by 28 places and was at 38th rank and
IIT Madras was at 63rd rank climbing 12 places.
India shifts towards clean Diesel and Petrol from April 1
From April 1, 2020, India will shift to Euro-VI emission compliant from Euro-IV grades that is being followed
now. This means that India will shift towards more clean form of fuel.

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Highlights
As India shifts to Euro VI grades, it will join select league of nations using pure and clean fuel. These fuels
contain just 10 parts per million of Sulphur. The Sulphur emissions are the main reasons that choke
pollution in major cities.
With Indian Oil Corporations and all other leading refineries already adopting BS-VI petrol and diesel, India is
already on track in implementing clean fuel in the country.
History
India adopted Euro II or equivalent BS III fuel that contains 350 parts per million of Sulphur in 2010. Later, it
took seven years for India to adopt to BS IV that contains 50 ppm of Sulphur. However, it took only three
years to shift to BS VI standard.
Delhi and adjoining cities have already adopted BS VI in April 2019.
Benzene limits was reduced from 5% in 2000 to 1% in 2019. Similarly, the lead content was reduced in
phases since 2000.
Delhi Airport: The First Single-use Plastic-free airport
The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has become the first airport in India to become free of single-
use plastics. The airport committed itself to become single-use plastics free on the World Environment Day
in 2018.
Highlights
DIAL has used eco-friendly alternatives to reduce the plastic use. The Plastic items that are exempted at the
airport included sealed PET bottles, security tamper-evident bags, pre-packaged materials from
manufacturers and compostable plastic bags.
This is important because it is the leading airport in the country with annual traffic of 68.5 million
passengers per annum.
Significance
The step is being adopted to keep up India’s target of abolishing use of single-use plastics by 2022. This
targets six main types of plastics that are plastic cups, bags, small bottles, plates, pouches and straws. The
Swachh Bharat Mission is deployed in achieving the target.
Need
India produces 26,000 tonnes of plastic trash every day. Much of this trash is dumped in landfills, streets or
spilled in waterways. Around 40% of the plastic used in the world is single-use plastic. Therefore, it is highly
imperative to take serious actions to stop their usage.
After English and Mandarin, Hindi-the third most spoken language in the world
With 615 million speakers all over the world, Hindi is the third most spoken language in the world. English is
at the top with 1,132 million speakers followed by Mandarin with 1,117 million speakers.
Highlights
On February 18, 2020, the Ethnologue published its yearly database on living languages of the world. It
covered more than 7,111 living languages. It also published data on languages that were gone out of usage
in the recent history and that included around 348 languages.
It also said that Bangla is the 7th most spoken language in the world with 228 million native speakers.
Ethnologue
The Ethnologue is an annual publication that provides statistics of the living languages of the world. It is
published by SIL International since 1951. The publication released this year in 2020 is its 22nd release.
The SIL International is a non-profit organization that documents languages. It is mainly into promotion of
literacy and translation of Christian Bible. It was founded in 1933 with the aim of translating bible.

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Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill approved by Union Cabinet
On February 18, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the Assisted Reproductive Technology (Regulation) bill.
The bill proposes to establish a national registry.
Highlights
The bill aims at setting up of a national board and as state board to implement a legal framework. The bill
also proposes to establish a central data base of banks and clinics all over the country. It will help in
identifying people that are involved in illegal embryo sale and trafficking.
Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)
The ART is used to treat infertility. The technology works to remove an egg from a woman’s body and
fertilize it with a man’s sperm to make an embryo.
Need
India has become a surrogacy hub for foreign couples. Also, there are unethical practices that need to be
brought under legislation. The 228th report of LCI (Law Commission of India) recommended for suitable
legislation towards the ART practices being followed in the country.
22nd Law Commission of India approved by the Union Cabinet
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the 22nd Law Commission of India. The commission has
been approved for a period of three years.
Highlights
The 22nd Law Commission will consist of a full time Chairperson. It has four full time members. Also,
secretaries from Department of Legal Affairs and Legislative department.
Law Commission of India
It is a non-statutory body that is constituted by the GoI from time to time. It was constituted in 1955 for the
first time. Since then it has been reconstituted for every 3 years. So far, the Law Commission of India has
submitted 277 reports.
Benefits
The Law Commission will make recommendations based on the aspects of laws entrusted upon it. It will
undertake research works and suggest reforms that are essential to enact new legislations.
Functions
The functions and objectives of the Law Commission are as follows
To identify laws that shall be repealed immediately
To examine the current laws in force and suggest ways to improve them
To respond to requests made by other countries in framing their legal system
To make measures that shall help to serve the poor legally
To revise laws to simplify them.
February 20, 2020
China moves against Pakistan in FATF, Turkey now the only supporter
China has joined India and United States in putting Pakistan on Grey list of the FATF (Financial Action Task
Force). Both China and Saudi Arabia have joined US, India and other European countries sending stern
messages to Pakistan against its actions of terror funding money laundering
Highlights
A Plenary session of the FATF is to be held in June 2020. China, Saudi Arabia and Turkey were the three
countries that supported Pakistan against FATF move in putting Pakistan under Grey List. Now Turkey and
Malaysia are the only supporters. 12 out of 39 votes are required to move out of FATF list which Pakistan
will not be able to.
Pakistan is currently on Grey List of FATF and with its major supporters withdrawing their backing, Pakistan

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will continue to remain on FATF Grey list. Pakistan was put on the list in June 2018. It was given a plan of
action which the country was supposed to complete by October 2019. Failing of which will place it under
black list.
FATF Grey List and Black List
The FATF is a Paris based organization that combats terrorism funding and money laundering.
Grey List
The countries that are not safe and are supporting money laundering and terror funding are included in the
list.
Black List
The countries that is uncooperative tax havens for terror funding. They are also called Non-Cooperative
Countries or Territories (NCCTs).
Countries currently in Black List and Grey List
The lists now have been renamed to “Call for Action” and “Monitored Jurisdiction”. The Call for Action
countries or the Black List Countries include Iran and North Korea.
The Monitored Jurisdiction or Grey List include Iceland, Ghana, Botswana, Syria, Yemen, Pakistan, Mongolia
and Cambodia.
The above lists are updates as of February 20, 2020.
GoI to launch “TILHAN Mission” to make India Self Reliant in oil seed Production
On February 19, 2020, the Agricultural Minister Narendra Singh Tomar announced that Government of India
is to launch “TILHAN MISSION” to boost the oil seed production. The announcement was made at an
occasion of Soil Health Card Day. Soil Health Card Day was celebrated all over India on February 19, 2020.
Highlights
Government of India is to increase oil seed production in order to make the country self-reliant in oil seed
production.
The Minister also announced that GoI is to create 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations all over the
country. In order to support this, the GoI is to provide Rs 6,000 rupees.
Current Oil Seed Scenario in India
India is the fourth largest vegetable oil economy in the world after USA, China and Brazil. Today, the oil
seeds account for 13% of cropped area in the country.
The National Mission on Oil Seeds and Oil Palm was launched by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer
Welfare. The scheme was to be implemented for 5 years between 2014-15 and 2018-19.
India-Malaysia
Recently, there has been major rifts between India and Malaysia over Palm oil. Malaysia at the United
Nations General Assembly meet placed open accusations on India for abrogating Article 370 and its other
steps towards development of Kashmir. Malaysian PM accused India of invading and occupying Kashmir.
According to India, Kashmir issue is completely internal and is between India and Pakistan to settle upon.
Following such accusations, India gradually decreased its Palm oil imports from Malaysia. In September
2019, the palm oil imports (before the Malaysian PM’s accusation) were 310,648 tonnes. In October, the
imports were reduced to 219,956 tonnes and in November it was 142,696 tonnes.
India is the largest importer of palm oil in the world. And oil exports are highly important for the Malaysian
economy as it accounts to 2.8% of its GDP and 4.5% of its total exports.
Inference
India having cut its imports from Malaysia, is now on the plan of increasing its domestic oil seed
production.

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Cabinet approves Phase II of Swachh Bharat Mission
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved on implementing the phase II of Swachh Bharat Mission.
The phase II of the mission will focus on Open Defecation Free Plus.
Highlights
The budget allocated for phase II of the mission is Rs 52,497 crores. The mission in this phase is to
converge with Jal Jeevan Mission and MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Act).
Apart from the focus maintaining the status of Open Defecation Free, the mission also aims to provide rural
employment. It is to be monitored under 4 key areas namely bio-degradable solid waste management,
plastic waste management, fecal sludge management and greywater management.
Jal Jeevan Mission
The Jal Jeevan Mission was launched in August 2019. The mission aims to provide tap water to all the
households by 2024. It also focuses on desilting minor irrigation tanks and using grey water for agriculture.
Financial Assistance
An incentive of Rs 12,000 is to be provided for the construction of individual household toilet. An additional
financial assistance of Rs 2 lakhs to 3 lakhs is to be provided for Gram Panchayats to construct Community
managed Sanitary Complexes.
Manipur- the major role player of Act East Policy
India has been focusing on Act East Policy lately with a strong motive of developing the North East. Out of
all the North Eastern States, Manipur has evolved the major supporter of Act East Policy.
Measures
The GoI and the Manipur Government have taken several measures together in order to make the Act East
Policy a big success. The integrated Check Post was inaugurated at Moreh, the Indo-Myanmar border. The
Check post handles 99% of trade between Indian and Myanmar. The trade between the countries increased
by 10% in a decade.
Both India and Myanmar have agreed to open nine borders between the countries. Two Hunar HAats have
been established in the border districts of Manipur. Around 69 bridges have been constructed that helps in
transiting to Myanmar and enhance border trade. Imphal-Mandalay flight services have begun.
Act East Policy
The Act East Policy was launched as the Look East Policy in 1991. Through the North East States India
plans to increase its trade connectivity with ASEAN countries. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit project,
India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway are some of the projects that has taken trade between the
countries to next level.
Cabinet approves to set up a 12-member Technology Group
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to set a technology group. The 12-member group will
provide scientific advice on mapping of technologies, commercialization of dual use technologies and
develop a road map on selected key technologies.
The group will provide three major pillars of support namely Policy support, research and development
proposals and procurement support.
Functions of the group
The group will help the GoI in achieving the following
To render advice on technology procurement strategy
To develop in-house expertise in developing merging technologies
To make sure the public sector technologies developed are sustainable.
Why was the group constituted?
The Group has been constituted as the GoI faced the following challenges

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There was no mapping of technologies and their uses spread across the country
The Researches were not aligned to technology development
The dual use of technologies was not commercialized
The standards of technologies were not fixed. This led to sub-optimal industrial development
Silo-centric approaches to the development of technologies are being adopted
The Group will help in addressing these issues.
Union Cabinet approves Revamping of PM Fasal Bima Yojana and RWBCIS schemes to address
challenges
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved revamping of challenges in insurance schemes such as
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and Restructured Weather Based Crop Insurance Scheme
(RWBCIS).
Highlights
The following changes are to be undertaken in the crop insurance schemes
The time period for an insurance company to work under the scheme is to be extended to 3 years
The Central subsidy has been limited to 30% for irrigated areas and 25% for irrigated areas
Two step processes are to be adopted for crop loss estimation
Technology solutions such as Smart Sampling Technique and Crop cutting are to be adopted under
insurance
Enrolment of farmers under the scheme has been made voluntary
Benefits
With these steps, farmers will be able to cover and manage risks of agriculture production. It will also
enable farmers of North Eastern Region to manage agricultural risk in a better way. The changes are to
begin from the Kharif Season of 2020.
NITI Aayog organizes North East Sustainable Development Goal Conclave 2020 in Assam
NITI Aayog is to organize North East Sustainable Development Goal Conclave 2020 in Assam between
February 24, 2020 and February 26, 2020. The Conclave is to be held in the state capital Guwahati. Chief
Ministers of all the north eastern states namely Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Manipur,
Meghalaya, Assam, Tripura and Sikkim are to participate in the conclave.
Highlights
The conclave is to focus on SDG localization in the north eastern region. It includes climate adaptive
agriculture, sustainable livelihoods, education, health and nutrition, skill development, connectivity,
entrepreneurship, infrastructure development. Every session is to chaired by respective field specialist.
Significance
NITI Aayog is currently monitoring SDGs at national and sub national levels. It is important to make
progress in the North East Regions at higher level as compared to the rest of the nation. This is the mainly
because of the economy of these states that is still backward as compared to the rest of the country.
Therefore, it is important to implement SDG localization in the North Eastern States to achieve Agenda
2030.
February 20: Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh celebrate their Statehood Day
On February 20, the states of Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram are celebrating their statehood day.
th
Statehood day marks the day of formation of the states. Arunachal Pradesh became a state on 20 February
1987. And Mizoram that was a part of Assam was formed on 20th February 1987.
Mizoram
Mizoram became a state with the implementation of North-Eastern Reorganization Act, 1972. Mizoram
being a mountainous region was a district of Assam till 1972. It was the 23rd state to be formed in India.

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In 1891, the region was annexed by the British. During British rule, the Lushai hills region was under Assam
and the southern half with Bengal. These two regions were united in 1898.
After the Reorganization act, 1972, Mizoram became a Union Territory. Later, in 1986, a historic MoU was
signed between the GoI and the Mizo National Front and Mizoram became a state in 1987.
Arunachal Pradesh
In 1972, the state was called the North-East Frontier Agency. Later in 1975, an elected Legislative Assembly
was constituted. After the Reorganization act, 1972, Arunachal Pradesh remained as a Union Territory. It
became a state in 1987.
GoI sets up Consumer Protection Authority to implement Consumer Protection Act
The Government of India is to set up a Consumer Protection Authority in order to implement the Consumer
Protection Act. The authority is to begin working from April 2020.
Highlights
The Consumer Protection Bill, 2019 was approved the Parliament in 2019 replacing Consumer Protection
Act, 1986. It aims to focus on rapid settlement of consumer disputes, strict penalties for wrong doings that
include misleading ads by firms and adulteration.
The authority is being constituted to makes sure of the act is implemented in the right way.
Consumer Protection act, 2019
The act apart from working towards effective administration in settling consumer disputed, also brings E-
Commerce under Jurisdiction. It also holds celebrities accountable for promoting wrong products. Under
the act, the celebrities can be fined up to Rs 10 lakhs for their misleading acts.
However, the act does not punish the media through which such misleading content is being promoted.
Strict actions shall be taken only on advertiser according to the act.
India ranks 77 on sustainability index and 131 on Flourishing Index
On February 20, 2020, WHO, Lancet and UNICEF together released a report titled “A Future for the World’s
Children”. According to the report, a new Global index has been included in comparing performance of child
nutrition, education and sustainability.
According to the report, India ranked 131 in flourishing index and 77 on sustainability index.
Highlights
The report says that India has improved in health and sanitation. However, it has to increase its spending on
Health. Around 180 countries were compared in the report. The parameters of comparison included child
survival, child wellbeing, health and education, sustainability, child nutrition.
Key Findings of the report
Because of stunting and poverty, around 250 million children in low- and middle-income countries are at risk
of not reaching their developmental potential.
Best and Least Performers
The children in countries such as Republic of Korea and Netherlands have best chances of survival. On the
other hand, Chad, Niger, Somalia and Mali were the least performers and face very bad odds.
Current Scenario
The report has named USA, Saudi Arabia and Australia as the top 10 highest emitters. Norway, Netherlands
and Republic of Korea emit 210% more than the target set by them towards the per capita target of 2030.
Major Issues
According to the report, the poorest countries have to do more to support their children health and ability.
They have to spend lots towards their children health in order to provide them healthy lives. This
disproportionately is affected by the carbon emissions from rich countries. The issue overall is threatening
lives of all children.

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The current scenario is capable of crating devastating health consequences such as malaria, malnutrition
and Dengue. Along with this the threats from heat waves and rising ocean levels are also high.
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) tops in Nature Ranking Index-2020
The CSIR of Delhi topped the National Ranking Index 2020 that ranks the scientific research institutes. CSIR
was followed by IISc Bangalore.
Highlights
The Rankings were provided based on the numbers of research output. It is indicated by total citations in
numbers. It also includes shares, that is the sharing percentage of an article.
The top research works in India in the current scenario includes environmental science, physics, chemistry
and Life Sciences.
Share percentage and scores
The first rank holder CSIR had a share percentage of 87.74 and 142 counts. Followed by CSIR, IISC
Bangalore had a share percentage of 83.61 and 211 count. The third rank was won by the Tata Institute of
Fundamental Research (TIFR) with share percentage of 62.18 and 232 count.
Top Institutes
The other top institutes included Homi Bhabha National Institute, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras, Indian
Association of Cultivation of Science, IIT Guwahati.
GoI Requirements
The GoI is urging scientists to work on topics such as artificial intelligence, 5G, malnutrition, water
conservation, prosperity of farmers, etc. The country is in need of these experts.
World Wide Education for the Future Index: India jumps to rank 35
The Economic Intelligence Unit recently published the Worldwide Education for the Future Index for the year
2019. India has jumped by five ranks and currently holds rank 35.
Highlights
The ranking is provided based on the ability of a country to equip their students in skill-based education.
India ranked 35th with an overall score of 53. The scores were provided based on the performance of the
countries in three countries namely teaching, policy environment and teaching environment. In 2018, India
ranked 40th with an overall score of 41.2.
In Policy Environment, India scored 56.3, in teaching environment its score was 52.2 and in socio-economic
environment India’s score was 50.1.
India has performed better in socio-economic environment. This is because in 2018, its score was 32.2.
However, the performance decreased in policy environment as the score in the area in 2018 was 61.5
Global Rankings
Among the largest economies the countries that fell back in their rankings include US, UK, Russia and
France. On other hand, India, China and Indonesia performer better as compared to the previous year.
Animal Culture linked to its Conservation at CMS COP 13 for the first time
The Convention on the Conservation on Migratory birds Conference of Parties (CMS COP 13) is being held
in Gandhinagar. Proposals were presented to conserve Sperm Whales and Chimpanzees based on their
culture. This is the first time such proposal is being made in the world.
Highlights
It was presented at the conference that some of the animals such as elephants, dolphins and whales
acquire some of their knowledge through social learning. They learn most of their behaviors from adults,
especially the migrating routes.
Findings
The report presented at the conference says that when a species gets vanished from an area, its critical

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knowledge will also be lost. For instance, as a result of commercial whaling in the coast of New Zealand,
the whales lost their knowledge of migration route and stopped calving in the region. This was during 1800.
Recently, in 2000, after 200 years, they have started calving in the region again.
This proves that genetic mixing among the species might help in recolonizing their forgotten destinations.
Therefore, it is essential to protect their cultural knowledge for their survival.
In case of Chimpanzees, their nut cracking methodologies are passed on to their next generations.
February 21, 2020
February 21: International Mother Language Day
On February 21, UNESCO is celebrating International Mother Language Day. It is important to celebrate the
day as globalization process has put languages under threat and they are disappearing altogether. When
languages fade away, the cultural diversity of the world fades away as well.
Highlights
Every year, UNESCO has been celebrating International Mother Language Day since 2000. The main purpose
of celebrating the day is to promote multilingualism and cultural diversity. This year the International
Mother Language Day is celebrated under the theme
Theme: Languages without Borders
Need
Today, more than 6,000 languages are spoken in the world according to UNESCO. However, out of these
43% are estimated to be endangered.
United Nations
In 2007, the United Nations called upon its members to promote, preserve and protect their languages. It
also proclaimed the year 2008 as the “International Year of Languages”.
In India the Day is being celebrated as “Matribhasha Diwas”
Matribhasha Diwas
In India, the day is celebrated under the theme
Theme: Celebrating our Multilingual Heritage
The day is being celebrated to reflect upon “Ek Bharat Shreshth Bharat”.
Asian Elephant, Great Indian Bustard and Bengal Florican classified as “Endangered Migratory
Species” at CMS COP13
On February 20, 2020, Asian Elephant, Indian Bustard and Bengal Florican were declared as “Endangered
Migratory Species” at the CMS COP 13. The proposal was accepted by 130 countries.
Asian Elephant
India declared Indian Elephant as “National Heritage Animal”. This provides highest degree of legal
protection to the animal under Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972. The Asian elephants are called
Indian Elephants in the country. The threats to the Indian Elephants include habitat loss, human elephant
conflict, habitat fragmentation, illegal trade and poaching.
Bengal Florican
The population of the species has declined greatly due to habitat loss. The Bengal Florican does not breed
outside the protected areas today. It is listed as the critically endangered species under the IUCN list and is
of the topmost conservation priority.
Great Indian Bustard
The Great Indian Bustard is also listed under critically endangered species in IUCN Red List. In order to
protect the species, the Indian Government has declared their habitats as conservation reserves. According
to the Wildlife Institute of India, there are only 150 Great Indian Bustards left in the country.

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One Million Dollar Worth Prizes created by Sweden for sustainable Food Solutions
Sweden has created 1 million USD worth prizes to feed billion of people. The prize is named as the “Food
Planet Prize”. The main aim of the step is to address the climate change threats towards food supply all
over the world.
Highlights
The prize is to be awarded annually. Sweden is to offer two Food Planet prizes. They are “an existing
scalable solution for sustainable foods” and the other includes “innovative initiatives to transform global
food sector”.
Need
Today, the world population is 7.8 billion and is expected to grow by 10 billion by 2050. In order to feed
such a huge population, it is essential to transform the eating habits, reduce food waste and also improve
food production.
Today there are more than 820 million people that lack sufficient food. There are many others that consume
low-quality diet. The data was provided by the LANCET publication. Therefore, the prize will encourage
people to work towards sustainable food production.
President’s Secretary Sanjay Kothari named the next CVC by PM led panel
The appointment of the CVC (Chief Vigilance Commissioner) was criticized throughout India as the new
appointee was a part of the Search Committee. After the wide criticization, President Secretary Sanjay
Kothari has now been recommended by the PM led panel.
Highlights
The Central Vigilance Commission is the premier Government Agency that prevents corruption. It was
established in 1964 as recommended by the Santhanam Committee. It was neither a statutory body nor a
constitutional body. In 2003, the Parliament enacted a law conferring statutory status to the CVC.
The CVC is appointed by the President on recommendation of a three-member committee that consists of
Prime Minister as head. The CVC holds office for four years till they attain the age of 65 years (whichever is
earlier). The CVC is not eligible to be employed under any other Central or State Government Agency after
his or her retirement.
Functions of CVC
The CVC makes investigation over references made by the Central Government. The Central Government
shall make recommendations against an employee under Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. It has powers
to give directions to the CBI under Delhi Special Police Establishment act.
Revision of interest subvention under Diary Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund from
2% to 2.5%
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs recently approved its revision of interest subvention rates from
2% to 2.5% per annum. This is being done under Diary Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund
(DIDF).
Highlights
Under the DIDF, GoI will now provide interest subvention up to 2.5% to NABARD till 2030. This shall enable
NABARD in devising its own strategy of borrowing. In turn, it will be able to provide low cost of funds to milk
unions.
Impacts
There are more than 95 lakh milk producers that will be benefitted with this move. It will help in
establishment of 28,000 milk coolers and create 210 metric tonnes of milk drying capacity.
Implementation
The major activities that are covered under the fund includes chilling infrastructure, electronic adulteration

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testing kit, modernization of milk processing facilities and project management.
DIDF scheme
The DIDF Scheme was announced in Union Budget 2017-18 by the Ministry of Finance. Under the scheme
DIDF considerable amount is contributed by NABARD to the National Diary Development Board and National
Cooperative Development Corporation.
RBI launches 5-year Financial Inclusion Strategy
The Reserve Bank of India has launched National Strategy for Financial Inclusion (2019-24). The main
motive of the strategy is to provide access to financial services in an affordable manner.
Highlights
The Strategy has been launched after thorough consultation with SEBI (Securities Exchange Board of India),
PFRDA (Pension fund Regulatory and Development Authority of India) and also Insurance Regulatory and
Development Authority of India (IRDAI). The strategy was launched based on the recommendations of the
Financial Inclusion Advisory Committee that worked in consultation with the above agencies.
Key Recommendations
The following are the recommendations included in the strategy
The committee has recommended Universal Financial Access. Under this, every village will have
formal financial service provider within a radius of 5 km.
The committee has recommended for the strengthening of Digital Financial Services to reach a less-
cash society by 2022.
Every adult registered under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana should be enrolled in pension scheme
and insurance scheme
The Public Credit Registry shall be made completely operational by March 2022.
Fourth Anniversary of Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission celebrated
The Fourth Anniversary of Shyama Mukherji Rurban Mission is being celebrated all over India on February
21, 2020. It was launched on February 21, 2016. The mission aims at stimulating local economic
development and create well planned Rurban Regions
Highlights
The mission aims to develop 300 Rurban clusters. The Niti Aayog has proposed that these clusters are to be
extended to 1000 in 3 years.
The Mission
The mission aims to preserve the essence of rural community life. It was announced in the Union Budget
2014-15. The Budget allocated Rs 5,142 crores of rupees for the scheme. As 69% of rural population lives in
the rural areas, the mission aims on the availability of amenities to the rural population.
The Plan
The Mission plans to develop Rurban clusters contiguously with the Gram Panchayats with a population of
25,000 to 50,000 in plains and 5,000 to 15,000 in desert and hilly areas.
Around 100 clusters were to developed in the first year. It is a joint venture with the state governments
where the state governments had to identify the clusters. Therefore, the progress of the mission is slow.
Maharashtra Government orders to destroy “Thai Mangur” fish breeding centres
On February 21, 2020, the Maharashtra Government ordered to destroy the Thai Mangur fish breeding
centres. This is mainly because the fish is cultivated in unhygienic conditions.
Highlights
The fish whose breeding is to be stopped in Maharashtra is commonly called Thai Mangur or foreign
Mangur or African Mangur. As they are being cultivated in unhygienic conditions and have enough potential
to make people sick, their breeding centres are being destroyed.

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The National Green Tribunal in 2000 banned the cultivation of the Thai Mangur. So far, the State
Government has destroyed 32 tonnes of Thai Mangur
Thai Mangur
The Mangur Fish was banned in India as the fish poses threats to other fishes in an ecosystem. A study in
Mumbai says hat the Mangur fish is responsible for 70% decline in native fish species of the country
Why so Popular?
In spite of several drawbacks, cultivation of Mangur and their sales is popular for its surviving capabilities.
The fish grows 3 feet to 5 feet. They can survive even in mud waters between rains. Other factors such as
omnivorous diet, burrowing capabilities, ability to survive on land and ability to hide in vegetation make the
species easy and economical for farming.
IIT to set up Data Science Centre at Kanjikode campus
The Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad is to set uo a research centre in data science. The centre being
set up at Kanjikode aims at providing a platform of research for artificial intelligence and Data Science
Highlights
The centre has been named as the Centre for Research and Education in Data Science. The Centre will
collaborate with the Government, industries and other academic institutes
Data Science
It is the field that uses scientific algorithms, processes and methods to extract knowledge from
unstructured and structured data.
The development of data science is highly important for Data Localization
What is Data Localization?
It refers to the rules, laws and regulations that speaks on the collection of data on a Nation’s citizens. It
also includes processing and storing such data.
Indian Laws on Data Localisation
Currently in India the only mandate on Data Localization is that provided by Reserve Bank of India, that too
only for Payment systems. However, there are several draft bills and reports on Data Localization.
First Khelo India University Games to be held in Bhuwaneshwar
The first Khelo India University Games is to be held in Bhuwaneshwar, Odisha. The game is to be launched
by PM Modi through video conferencing.
Highlights
More than 3400 athletes in 17 disciplines and from 159 Universities are to participate in the game. This is
the first of its kind. On the whole, 17 sports are to be conducted. It includes athletics, archery, fencing,
boxing, hudo, weight lifting, swimming, badminton, wrestling, basketball, hockey, football, tennis, table
tennis, rugby, volley ball, Kabaddi.
Khelo India
Khelo India is a National Programme for Development of Sports. The main objective of the initiative is to
inculcate sports culture at Grass-root level. While, the Khelo India University Games are being launched for
the first time in the country, Khelo India School games were launched in 2018 and has been conducted
annually in the month of January-February since then.
The Sport even is organized by Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports.
National Organic Food Festival inaugurated in New Delhi
Ministry of Food Processing and Ministry of Women and Child Development jointly inaugurated the National
Organic Food Festival in New Delhi. The festival aimed at strengthening organic food produce in the
country. It also aimed at encouraging women entrepreneurs in manufacturing organic produce.

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Highlights
More than 180 women entrepreneurs and self-help groups exhibited their organic products at the festival. It
was announced at the festival that the organic sector is growing at a speed of 17% per year.
GoI has lately been taking several steps to export organic foods. In order to achieve this, Jaivik Kheti Portal
has been included in the agricultural budget presented by the Finance Minister. Out of the 2.8 lakh crore
allocated for agriculture, a part is to be used for Jaivik Kheti scheme.
Jaivik Kheti
It is a National Project on Organic Farming. Under the scheme, the GoI aims to strengthen organic farming.
It was launched in 2004. It was introduced in 10th five-year plan. Though the scheme initially aimed on usage
of Bio-Fertilizers, later it focused on producing organic foods.
February 24, 2020
International Judicial Conference held in New Delhi
The International Judicial Conference was held in New Delhi recently. The Conference was addressed by PM
Modi. The following theme was introduced at the conference
Theme: Gender Just World
Highlights
The Conference discussed the changes being introduced by the Government of India to bring Gender
Equality in recruiting women in military services, selection process of fighter pilots. It also discussed on
freedom of women to work in mines at night.
The Conference also focused on the need for technology to deliver rapid justice. The initiative “E-Court
Integrated Mission Mode Project” of GoI, to integrate every court of India with the E-Court system was
highlighted.
The “Just-World” Hypothesis
The “Just World” fallacy is associated with the actions of bringing fair actions towards education, health,
gender equality and other social issues.
The Conference introduced the “Just World” concept in the Judicial System of India. By this it aims to take
the judicial system of the country to every citizen irrespective of their gender. Also, it aimed to bring upon
gender equality in other crucial areas where women have still not earned their recognition, especially the
areas of mining and military.
February 24: PM-Kisan Scheme completes one year
On February 24, 2020, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana completed one year of its
implementation. The scheme was launched to increase the income of farmers. It aims to help farmers by
providing them income support of Rs 6,000 per year.
The scheme was launched by PM Modi on February 24, 2019 at Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. It is being
implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare.
Highlights
The Scheme initially provided income support to small and marginal farmers that hold land up to 2 hectares.
Later, it was extended to all farmers irrespective of the size of their land holdings. Around 14 crore farmers
were to covered under the scheme.
Till now, the Central Government has released Rs 50,850 crores and has benefited 8.46 crores of families.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana
In order to gain the benefits from the scheme, the farmers have to produce citizenship certificate, Aadhaar
card, land holding papers and bank account details. The amount are to be deposited directly in to the
farmers’ accounts under the scheme.

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Temperature controlled largest Terminal to store Agro and Pharma Products launched at Mumbai
airport
The Mumbai airport has recently launched the world largest temperature-controlled facility to store agro and
pharma products. The “Export Cold Zone” launched is capable of holding more than 700 tonnes of cargo.
Highlights
The terminal connects 500 cargo destinations spread across 175 countries. The unit is spread over 6,000
square metres. It is spread across 12 truck docks equipped with dock-levellers, automated workstations,
spacious acceptance and examination area, X-Ray machines and Ball mat system for Unit Load Device.
Mumbai Airport is one of the few airports in the world, first in the country and third in Asia to obtain IATA
CEIV PHARMA accreditation.
IATA CEIV PHARMA
It is an accreditation provided by International Air Transport Association. The Centre of Excellence for
Independent Validators in Pharmaceuticals Logistics (CEIV Pharma) was launched by IATA in order to
enhance the supply chain of pharma products all over the world. This accreditation establishes safety,
security, efficiency and compliance in handling pharmaceutical products.
US to sign peace deal with Taliban forces to end war in Afghanistan
The US President Donald Trump recently announced that the United States of America will sign a peace
agreement with the Taliban forces on February 29, 2020.
Highlights
The US and the Taliban forces are to sign peace agreement to end the war of 18 years in Afghanistan. After
the agreement, 12,000 US troops that are currently deployed in Afghanistan are to return to US.
Taliban
The Talibans are sunni Islamic fundamentalists that are currently waging war in Afghanistan. The Taliban
held power between 1996 and 2001. They emerged a powerful political and military organization in
Afghanistan. Under Taliban rule in Afghanistan, Opium was completely eradicated. But today, 80% of the
world opium originates in Afghanistan. However, the Talibans openly celebrated the 09/11 attacks on the
US.
US-Taliban
The US waged war in Afghanistan after the 9/11 terrorist attack. The war was waged to roll back the control
of Taliban. The US conducted two major operations to contain terrorism of Talibans. They were Operation
Enduring Freedom (2001-14) and Operation Freedom’s Sentinel (2015-present).
ICMR Report says Delhi and Ahmedabad tops in added-fat consumption
The Indian Council of Medical Research conducted study on the food habits of the citizens of the country.
The study said that vegetarians consume more fat than that of non-vegetarians. Also, among the
metropolitan cities of India, Delhi and Ahmedabad topped the list in average consumption of added fat.
Highlights
The survey was conducted by ICMR based on the data provided by the National Nutrition Monitoring Bureau.
According to the study, people whose diet relied on deep fried food consumed more added fat than those
who ate boiled food.
The report also said that highest intake of added fat was in the age group of 36 to 59 years and the least
intake was in children under the age of five.
GoI on Nutrition
India is a signatory of the resolution “Transforming our World: 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development”.
Achieving Inclusive Growth is one of the main targets of Sustainable Development Goals. Under the target,
India is stepping towards food security with Nutrition playing the major role.

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Artificial Intelligence based Chatbot ASKDISHA launched by the Railways
The Indian Railways recently launched Artificial Intelligence based chatbot called “ASKDISHA”. The chatbot
will interact with the Railway customers in Hindi language resolving their queries.
Highlights
The Chatbot was initially launched in 2018 in English. Now, the chatbot has been empowered to converse in
Hindi. The bot handles more than 3.000 inquiries. There are further plans to launch the chatbot in more
languages.
AI in Indian Railways
Indian Railways is the fourth largest in the world. The technology of Artificial Intelligence in Indian Railways
is implemented in the following areas
To Schedule trains
To control speed of the trains
Delay prediction and Reduction. GoI is currently planning to extend this application to inform
passengers about the delay in trains.
Budget 2020
In the Union Budget 202, Rs 1.61 lakh crores were allocated for Indian Railways. This is 3% higher than the
previous year budget allocation. With this, GoI plans to make the railway stations smarter with faster Wi-Fi
and easy smart digital technology-based ticketing.
Facts Box: Thal Sena Bhawan, the new Army Headquarters
The Defence Minister Rajanth Singh recently laid foundation stone to construct a new Army Headquarters in
Delhi Cantontment. The building has been named “Thal Sena Bhawan”.
Highlights
The building is designed as a rising sun and is spread over 39 acres. The new department that integrates
army, navy and air force is to be placed under Chief of Defence Staff in the new building. The construction
of the building is expected to be completed in 3 to 4 years. Around 1,700 officers and 1,300 sub staffs are
to be accommodated in the building.
The building has adopted GRIHA-5-rating norms.
GRIHA
Griha is Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment. These buildings consume resources from
municipal wastes or indirectly from emissions of electricity generation. It is basically a rating tool. It gives
star rating to the buildings based on their performance in using resources for their design, build, running
and demolition provisions.
February 24: Central Excise Day
Every year, on February 24, the Central Excise Day is being celebrated by Central Board of Excise and
Customs all over India. The day is being celebrated to honour the service of Central Board of Excise and
Custom (CBEC) to the country.
Highlights
The day is also celebrated to honour the officers associated with CBEC and their services. This is done to
encourage the officers to carry out their duties with utmost sincerity. The officers, every year perform
checking of corruption in goods from manufacturing sector.
History
The say is celebrated to commemorate the legislation of Central Excise and Salt act in 24 February, 1944.
CBEC
The CBEC operates under Ministry of Finance. It deals with policy formulation related to collection of
service tax and central excise and duties. It is also responsible for the checking the implementation of

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Customs act, 1962, Central Excise Act 1944, Customs Tariff Act 1975 and Service Tax Act.
PM Kisan Mobile App launched to succeed “Doubling Farmer Income by 2022”
The successful completion of one year of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi is being celebrated on
February 24, 2020. In order to commemorate its success, PM Kisan Mobile app was launched by the
Minister of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Narendra Singh Tomar.
Highlights
The application helps farmers to learn about their payment status, their eligibility towards a scheme and
several other information. The application will help the government to reach farmers easily. It will also act
as a platform to deliver information about government schemes and other beneficiaries. This overall will
help GoI achieve its goal of “Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022” easily.
PM Kisan Samman Nidhi
The small and marginal landholders are eligible to receive Rs 6,000 per year under the scheme. The
following higher economic status of agricultural sector are not eligible
Institutional Land Holders
Retired pensioners whose pension is more than Rs 10,000
Persons who paid income tax in the last year
Professional persons such as lawyer, doctor, engineer, architect, charted accountants, etc.
NITI Aayog Report: 28% of Aadhaar based payment are going to wrong accounts
The NITI Aayog has released a progress report on National Nutrition Mission (Poshan Abhiyaan). According
to the report, one in three Aadhaar based payments was credited to a wrong bank account, especially in
Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana.
Highlights
This is the second report prepared by the think tank. The report was prepared and released by the Ministry
of Women and Child Development. According to the report, 28% of Aadhaar based payments were going to
wrong bank accounts.
The report also says that 66% of direct benefit transfers were based on Aadhaar. Only 60% of the
beneficiaries were aware of the receipt of benefits
Why PMMVY in specific?
Out of all the women and child development schemes, PMMVY is crucial because, Rs 6,000 transferred to
the pregnant and lactating mothers should reach them on time. This is because they are credited as wage
compensation and for their betterment of health.
Ranking of the states
The report also ranked the states based on 4 parameters namely
Strategy and Planning
Governance and Institutional Mechanism
Programme Activities and Intervention Coverage
Service Delivery and Capacities
Out of the 19 large states, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh scored the top three ranks.
They had implementation scores of 70% and above. The least performing larges states were Karnataka,
Assam and Kerala. Among the small states Mizoram and Sikkim scored above 75%.
Among Union Territories Dadra and Nagar Haveli, Chandigarh and Daman and Diu were the best performers
scoring above 75%.
Facts Box: Cheetah Reintroduction Project
Cheetah has become extinct in India for more than 70 years now due to over hunting. Hence, several steps
are being taken for the reintroduction of the cat in the country. It was brought up at CMS-COP 13 as well.

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Highlights
On January 28, 2020, the Supreme Court of India cleared way for the reintroduction of Cheetah Project. It is
expected that the National Tiger Conservation Authority will reintroduce the mammal in Kuno-Palpur Wildlife
Sanctuary after conducting an assessment.
Cheetah is the only flagship species to become extinct in India.
The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) Red List has categorized Cheetah as Vulnerable.
Cheetah in India
Cheetah has become extinct in India mainly because of hunting. The last Cheetah was shot in Chhattisgarh
in 1947. In 2000, scientists proposed to clone Asiatic Cheetah from Iran. However, the plan was dropped as
Iran demanded for an Asiatic lion in return. After such several hurdles, Cheetah is being reintroduced in the
country.
February 25, 2020
US President Donald Trump visits India: Signs Defence Deals
On February 24, 2020, the US President Donald Trump visited India. He was accompanied by his wife, the
first lady, Melania Trump, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law Jared Kushner. Along side his visit, India and US
signed defence deals worth 3 billion USD.
Highlights
The President was welcomed by PM Modi in a traditional way at Ahmedabad airport. Mr Trump later visited
Sabarmati Ashram and Taj Mahal. The leaders then addressed a large gathering at Motera stadium. India
celebrated the visit of the US President by naming the event as “Namaste Trump”.
Defence Deal
India and US will sign two defence deals for helicopters. Around 24 MH-60R helicopters are to be signed for
Indian Navy and six AH-64E helicopters are to be signed for Apache helicopters.
India-US
The defence relation between India and US began in 2005. The countries signed a framework to build a
strategic defence cooperation between them. In 2012, the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI)
was launched. The DTTI implements Next Generation Protective Ensembles for Chem-bio protection. In
2015, a strategic vision for Asia Pacific (the now Indo Pacific) and the Indian Ocean Region was signed.
Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad resigns
On February 24, 2020, the Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad resigned over political issues.
Highlights
The 94-year old Mahathir tried to form a coalition. This move would exclude his successor Anwar Ibrahim.
This led to a tussle in the party and eventually the leader resigned. However, he will act as an interim PM.
India and Mahathir
Mr Mahathir was known for his comments on India’s Abrogation of Article 370. At the United Nations
General Assembly that was held in September 2019, he commented that India “invaded, occupied” Kashmir.
Following this, India slowly stopped importing Palm oil from Malaysia. This hit Malaysian Palm oil market
greatly.
Alternately, India is to import Palm oil from Bangladesh.
India-Malaysia
Malaysia is the 19 t h largest investor of India. There are more than 150,000 Indians living in
Malaysia. Following Palm oil, India is to impose curbs over other imports from Malaysia such as micro-
processors, telecom products, aluminium ingots, aluminum wire, etc.
GoI launches “SPICe+” to improve Ease of Doing Business in the country
On February 24, 2020, the Government of India launched SPICe+, a web form that integrates 10 services of

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various ministries and departments. This will help boost Ease of Doing Business in India. It was launched by
the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
rd
India ranked 63 in Ease of Doing Business ranking published by World Bank.
Highlights
The Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus provides 10 services thereby saving
time, cost for starting a business in India. It offers 10 services namely DIN allotment, issue of PAN, TAN,
EPFO. ESIC registration, opening bank account for a company, allotment of GSTIN, issue of Profession Tax,
etc.
The service will help to improve Ease of Doing Business in the country, especially for a startup.
Ease of Doing Business Ranking
th
In 2019, the World Bank placed India at the 136 rank for Ease of Starting Business. It was provided the
th th
154 and 115 ranks for paying taxes and enforcing contracts respectively. Therefore, it is essential for
initiatives such as SPICe+ to improve India’s position globally.
Minister reviews progress of meeting of Institute of Eminence
On February 24, 2020, the Union Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal chaired a high-level meeting to review the
progress of Institutes of Eminence.
Highlights
The following decision were taken at the meeting
The Institutes of Eminence shall invite professors and foreign faculties in order to deepen interface
between the institutes in the country and other recognized institutes
The Institute of Eminence are to be given open access to research journals
The institutes shall adopt model villages under Unnat Bharat Scheme.
Unnat Bharat Scheme
Unnat Bharat Scheme was launched to promote development in the rural areas. The scheme aims to
address the increasing inequity in the rural areas due to ecological degradation.
It is important to focus on model villages under the scheme as 70% of the villages live in rural India. Though
majority of the population lives in rural areas, their contribution towards GDP is only 17%. Therefore, it is
important to bring up more such measures to increase their GDP contribution.
February 25: First anniversary of National War Memorial commemorated
On February 25, 2020, the first anniversary of National War Memorial was commemorated. The CDS Bipin
Rawat paid tribute to the memorial and so did several other leaders of the country.
The Memorial was inaugurated by PM Modi on February 25, 2019.
Highlights
The memorial was dedicated by the Prime Minster to honour the fallen heroes of wars. Today, more than
5,000 people visit the monument everyday. The monument was built in 40 acres of land at India Gate, New
Delhi. The monument honours more than 26,000 soldiers.
The Monument holds “Veerta Chakra” that depicts 6 important battles of Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. It
also holds 14 lakh litre water storage tank for rainwater harvesting.
India Gate
India Gate is also a war memorial. It was built in 1931 to commemorate the Martyrs of India who died in
World War I. It bears names of more than 13,516 soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the war.
Human Resources Development Ministry presents Vishwakarma Awards
On February 24, 2020, the Union Minster Ramesh Pokhriyal presented the Vishwakarma awards for the year
2019. Around 23 groups were awarded Chatra Vishwakarma Awards and 6 institutes were awarded with
Utkrisht Santhan Vishwakarma Award.

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Highlights
This year the theme of competition of the award is as follows
Theme: How to Enhance the income of a village
Around 2,372 teams submitted their solutions. There were three stages of evaluation and 117 teams were
selected. The teams will exhibit their prototypes at the National Convention and Exhibition.
About Vishwakarma Awards
The awards were instituted by AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) since 2017. They are being
awarded every year for the growth of the society. The Chhatra Vishwakarma awards are Class I awards and
are presented for highly progressive staff. The Utkrisht Sansthan Vishwakarma Awards are Class II awards
that are presented to excellent institutional intervention.
AICTE
The All India Council for Technical Education is an advisory body that gained statutory status in 1987. It
accredits graduate and post graduate programmes. The body is assisted by 10 other statutory boards such
as Technical education, architecture education, vocational education, pharmaceutical education, etc
GoI: More firearms for Indian Shooters and others should surrender excess guns
On February 24, 2020, the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued notification under the Arms Act, 1959 and
Arms Rules, 2016. The main aim of the notice is to facilitate the shooting practices of Indian Shooters.
Highlights
According to the new rules, the renowned shooters and international medalists shall hold 12 additional
weapons. Earlier the number was seven. Also, if a shooter is renowned in one event, he shall hold 8 and if
he is an expert in more than 2 events, he shall hold 10 and for more than 2 events, he shall hold 12.
Though the motive of the move is to boost shooting sportsmen, the younger shooters and aspiring shooters
are not allowed to hold any of the weapons.
For other civilians, the number of weapons to be possessed has been reduced from three to two.
Issues of Arms (Amendment) Act
As the act was passed, the people of Punjab protested widely. This included businessmen, farmers and
even retired army men. This is because, according to them, 50% of the villagers in Punjab stay in remote
places. They have to protect themselves. Also, the villagers close to Pakistan border were insecure.
Cultural Issues
The step is being opposed by the Rajputs as well. They possess antique guns that are worshipped as family
heirlooms.
Committee submits report on Clause 6 of Assam Accord
On February 25, 2020, a high-level committee submitted its report to the Assam Chief Minister Sarbananda
Sonowal over the implementation of Clause 6 of Assam Accord.
Highlights
The committee was headed by Retd Justice B K Sharma. The report is to be submitted by the CM to the
Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
What is Clause 6 of Assam Accord?
The Clause provides constitutional, administrative and legislative safeguards to preserve and promote
cultural, linguistic and heritage of Assamese people.
Actions taken under Clause 6
Several actions have been taken under Clause 6 to provide administrative, constitutional and legislative
safeguards to the Assamese people. They include
The Srimanta Sankardeva Kalakshetra Society was formed with funds from Ministry of HRD
Jyoti Chitraban film Studio scheme was launched and in phase II, the studio was modernized.

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The Archaeological Survey of India took up preservation of 5 monuments namely Singri Temple ruins,
Poa-Mecca, Urvashi Archaeological site, Kedar Temple and Hayagriva Madhava Temple.
What is Assam Accord?
Assam Accord was an agreement signed between the government of India and the leaders of Assam
Movement in 1985. Under the agreement, the GoI agreed to accept all the migrants that entered before 1966
and GoI agreed to provide social, political, cultural and economic rights to the Assamese people.
Five Judges of Supreme Court infected with Swine Flu; Ministry of Health takes immediate
actions
On February 25, 2020, five judges of Supreme Court were infected from Swine Flu. Though the disease
caused by H1N1 virus is seasonal, the Ministry of Health took several preventive measures in order to
prevent further spread of the disease.
Highlights
Under the guidance of Ministry of Health, Prophylactic treatment was given to all the members who came in
contact with the judges. A workshop is to be conducted at the Bar Council of India Office.
Prophylactic treatment is a preventive measure.
Peak Seasons of H1N1
The Swine Flu is at its peak twice every year. It is between January and March and also between July and
September. Though, the infections are common at this point of time, preventive actions being taken
throughout the complex of the apex court to contain the spread of the virus.
H1N1
H1N1 is an Influenza virus. It was first reported in 2009. The stain of the virus that infects humans are alone
pandemic. The other stains of the virus namely swine influenza infecting pigs and Avian Influenza infecting
birds are endemic.
What is Pandemic, Endemic and Epidemic?
Pandemic is a disease that may spread throughout the world. Endemic is a disease that exists permanently
with in a territory or among a specific population. Epidemic is a disease that attacks many people in the
same time and spreads through several communities.
President Trump visit to India: 2 MoUs and 1 Letter of Cooperation signed
On February 24, 2020, the US President Donald Trump visited India along with his wife Melania Trump. On
the sidelines of his visit, agreements were signed in the field of health, oil and defence.
Highlights
In the Defence Sector, 3 billion USD worth deal was signed to buy helicopters. The Memorandum of
Understandings were signed in the field of oil and health. In the field of health, Central Drugs Standard
Control Organization and the US Food and Drug Administration signed agreements over the safety of
medical products.
Significance of MoU with USFDA
It is essential to be on good equations with the USFDA and also abide by its regulations. This is because,
the pharmaceutical exports to USA require USFDA certification. And US is the top export destination of
Pharmaceuticals for India. In 2018-19, around 5820 million USD worth pharmaceuticals were exported to US
from India.
The signing of this MoU will help the pharmaceuticals increase their exports to US.
Other Agreements
An MoU was also signed between the mental health departments of the countries. The countries also
signed a letter of cooperation in the field of Oil.

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What is Happiness Curriculum in Government Schools attended by Melania Trump?
On February 25, 2020, the first lady of the United States Melania Trump attended Happiness Classes at the
Delhi Government Schools. She accompanied President Trump in their visit to India.
Highlights
The Happiness Classes are one of the flagship programmes of the Delhi Government. The programme
launched in 2018 had received commendations from different parts of the world. It focuses on arts-based,
cognition, numeracy and literacy-based teachings. It is completely different from the traditional marks-
oriented teachings.
Objective
The Happiness Curriculum aims to develop citizens who are awakened, aware, mindful, empathetic and
above all firmly rooted to their identity. The programme also aims to mold children to cater the needs of
today’s society.
Output of the Curriculum
The Curriculum develops self-awareness among the students. It inculcates inquiry skills and critical
thinking. The programme also imbibes effective communication skills in students. It enables them to use
their skills towards problem solving mode during conflicting situations. It also reduces depression, anxiety
and intolerance among students.
Report says Dolphins of Odisha’s Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary has halved
The Forest Department of the Odisha State Government conducted a census at Chilika lake to count the
number of dolphins at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary in Odisha. The Sanctuary is a part of Bhitarkanika
National Park of Odisha. The report was released in February 24, 2020.
Highlights
According to the report, the dolphin count came down to 233 in 2020 from 259 in 2019. At the census, 60
Irawaddy Dolphins and only two bottle nose dolphins were spotted. In 2019, the officials had spotted 14
Irawaddy Dolphins and 14 bottle nose dolphins.
About the Census
The Dolphin Census at the Garimatha Marine Sanctuary was held for the first time in 2015. It was cancelled
in 2016 and 2017 due to bad weather.
Chilika Lake and the dolphins
Chilika lake is a Ramsar Site. This year as the prawn Gherries were dismantled, the dolphins were spread all
over the lake. Dolphins are listed in Schedule I of Indian Wildlife (Protection) act 1972. The IUCN red list
categorizes Dolphins as Endangered.
February 26, 2020
EEESL of GoI completes one successful year in making India Energy Efficient
The EESL (Energy Efficiency Services Limited) recently celebrated its 10 years of successful operation. The
Company adopted the policy of making India Energy Efficiency a year back. It has successfully completed
its one year of energy efficiency policy.
Highlights
In the last one year, the company has installed more than 10 lakh smart meters all over India under the
Smart Meter National Programme. The company has replaced more than 10.6 million street light bulbs with
LED lights. This helped to reduce 20 million tonnes of Carbon-Dioxide. Low cost LED bulbs were distributed
through Unnat Jyoti Programme (UJALA). Today, UJALA is the largest domestic lighting project in the world.
About EESL
EESL is the largest energy service company in the world. Apart from Indian projects, the company has also
taken up transformation in foreign countries such as UK, south Asia, Middle East and South-East Asia.

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Way Forward
In the future, the company is to commission 100 MW of decentralized solar power plants.
30 Years Egypt Ruler Mohammed Hosni Mubarak passes away
On February 25, 2020, the Egypt ruler Mohammed Hosni Mubarak died at the age of 91. He was severely ill
in the last months of his life.
He served as the President of Egypt between 1981 and 2011. Initially he served as an air force officer. It is
to be noted that he undertook training in Soviet Union in 1961 at the Kant Air Base near Bishek.
Revolution
Mubarak was ousted from his rule in 2011. He and his sons were detained on allegations of corruption and
abuse of power.
In January 2011, wide protests began in Egypt demanding Mubarak’s resignation. Following the protest, he
resigned in February. The Egyptian Military took over the power after his resignation.
Gulf War
At the Gulf war in 1991, Egyptian forces were the first to enter Saudi Arabia to remove Iraqi forces from
Kuwait. Under the command of Mohammed, Egypt took active participation at Gulf War.
The Gulf war was led by United States against invasion of Iraq to annex Kuwait. The war was code named
Operation Desert shield.
What is Counter Cyclical Fiscal Policy of GoI?
The Government of India has adopted “Counter Cyclical Fiscal Policy” in order to decrease the Economic
Slow Down in the country. The Economic Chief Advisor Subramanian at the Express Adda event in Mumbai
highlighted that Counter Cyclical Fiscal Policy is the only way forward to create additional fiscal headroom
Highlights
The GoI is in the path of achieving 5 trillion USD economy. According to the Economic Survey 2019-20,
Wealth Creation is the only way to achieve the target. Alongside Wealth Creation, the GoI has planned to
adopt more counter-cyclical Fiscal measures to arrest the economic slowdown.
Counter-Cyclical Fiscal Policy
It is the strategy adopted to counter recession or boom through fiscal measures. During recession, the
Counter cyclical fiscal policy aims at reducing taxes and increasing expenditure. It aims to create demand
in the country to bring an upswing in the country. On the other hand, during boom in an economy, the
counter-cyclical fiscal policy aims at increasing taxes and reducing public expenditure. This is because,
allowing amplification of boom can be disastrous. This is because, it may increase inflation and debt crisis.
Pro Cyclical Fiscal Policy
This was acknowledged by the Economic Survey 2017. It goes in line with the current mode of a business.
For instance, during a boom, Government may increase its expenditure to allow further growth of the boom.
India-US MoU on Mental Health: Indian Traditional Therapies to be exchanged for US Generic
Drugs
During the US President Donald Trump visit to India, the countries signed agreements in the field of energy,
oil, defence and health. India and US signed the agreement on mental health to enable India to treat mental
health issues.
Highlights
The Agreement facilitates greater access of traditional drugs and therapies of India to the US market. In
return, India is to gain access to generic drug market of US. This will help India obtain higher standards of
generic standard compliance.
Need
According to Lancet Report, the mental health disorders have increased from 3% in 1990 to 6% in 2013. This

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is expected to be low, as the report says that 80% of the mental disorders in the country are not reported.
It is important for India to boost its mental health treatments. This is because, it is estimated that globally,
1 trillion USD of productivity is lost due to depression and anxiety.
GISAT 1: New Age Satellite to monitor India continuously to be launched on March 5
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is to launch GISAT 1 (Geo-Imaging Satellite) in order to
watch Indian sub-continent continuously.
Highlights
The satellite is to be launched by the ISRO on March 5, 2020. The satellite is to be carried by GSLV-F10
rocket. The satellite weighs 2,275 kg and is to be placed in Geosynchronous orbit.
GISAT
GISAT is Geo-Information Satellite. The satellite is to do a full rotation of the earth and come to the same
point every 2 hours. The satellite is capable of performing rapid surveillance and fast imaging. The ISRO has
designed the satellite in such a way that if needed the satellite can observe a point for a longer duration.
This is the first satellite to be launched by ISRO in 2020. Following GISAT, 10 more satellites are to be
launched to boost space surveillance power of the country. The satellites will also help in strengthening
border security and control terrorist infiltration.
Indian National Centre for Ocean Information launched new Alert System
The Hyderabad based INCOIS (Indian National Centre for Ocean Information) launched a new alert system
that will help reduce damage and losses to fishermen due to swell surges. The Swell Surges splash strong
waves in the coast damaging boats and nets. The system will help fishermen to get prior alerts about swell
surges and safeguard their boats.
Highlights
The INCOIS, an autonomous body operating under Ministry of Earth Sciences launched the alert system that
will help provide early warnings about Swell Surges. This is to be launched exclusively for coastal
population. The Coastlines of Indian Sub-continent after Tsunami has been experiences damages due to
swell waves that originate in distant Southern Indian Ocean.
The Swell Surges are more common in west coast than the east coast.
What are Swell Surges?
A Swell Surge is caused due to surface gravity. They are surface gravity waves and not wind waves (the
common waves). Wind Waves are generated by the local winds. On the other hand, swell surges are
generated due to distant weather systems.
They take place without any noticeable changes in local winds or coastal environment.
DPIIT notifies 100% Foreign Direct Investment in Insurance Intermediaries
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) operating under Ministry of Commerce
and Trade has amended the FDI (Foreign Direct Policy) to allow 100% foreign investment for insurance
intermediaries. This includes insurance companies, third party administrators, insurance brooking, loss
assessors and surveyors.
Highlights
Initially DPIIT had allowed only 49% of FDI in the insurance sector. This has now been increased to 100% to
increase Ease of doing business in the insurance sector. With this move, the foreign companies shall easily
buy stakes in Indian Insurance Companies.
Background
The 100% FDI in Insurance Sector was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman in the Budget
2020-21. This is essential because, according to UNCTAD (United Nations Conference on Trade and
Development) World Investment Report, 2019, India faced third consecutive annual decline in terms of FDI

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in 2019.
UNCTAD
UNCTAD is a UN Body that deals with trade and investment. It was established in 1964. It also measures the
Sustainable Development Goal set out by the member countries of the United Nations.
Desert Locust Control High Level Meeting held
On February 25, 2020, the Agriculture Ministry held a high-level meeting on Desert Locust Control. The
meeting was chaired by Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare.
Highlights
The meeting discussed the locust control operations carried on between May 2019 and February 2020. The
report submitted by National Disaster Response Force was discussed at the meet. The report was
submitted by an inter-ministerial team that visited the states of Rajasthan and Gujarat to assess crop
losses.
At the end of the meeting, the officials were directed to conduct training and awareness programmes to
tackle locusts in the states of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Haryana and Punjab.
Locusts in India
There are 10 important locust species on the earth that cause major damages. Out of these, only 4 are
found in India. They are Desert Locust, Bombay Locust, Migratory Locust and Tree Locust.
Locust are grass hoppers that are capable forming swarms and cause great damage to cultivated
vegetation.
Indra Dhanush Exercise 2020: India-UK joint Air Force Exercise held at Air Force Station Hindon
The 5th edition of the Exercise Indra Dhanush commenced on 24th February, 2020. It is a joint air force
exercise between the Indian Air Force and the Royal Air Force of the United Kingdom.
Highlights
The Exercise focused on “Base Defence and Force Protection”. Around 36 specialized combatants of the
Royal Air Force participated in the exercise. From the Indian side, 42 combatants of Garud Commando
Force participated in the exercise.
The Exercise was held in Hindon Air Force Station
Hindon Air Force Station
The Hindon Air Force Station operates under Western Air Command. It is the eighth largest air base in the
world and the largest air base in Asia. It is located in Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh.
Garud Commando Force
The Garud Commando Force was formed in September 2004. The force is mainly tasked with the protection
of air bases and installations, disaster relief, search and rescue operations during hostilities. They are
currently deployed in Congo to fulfill United Nations Peace keeping operations.
February 27, 2020
National Technical Textiles Mission approved by Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
On February 26, 2020, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the National Technical Textiles
Mission. The mission has been allocated Rs 1,480 crores. The aim of the mission is to make India a global
leader in Technical Textiles.
Highlights
The Mission is to be implemented in India for 4 years, that is, between 2020-21 and 2023-24. There are 4
components of the mission as follows
Research, Innovation and Development
This component has been allocated Rs 1,000 crores. It aims to boost research at fibre level.
Under the component the focus is to be on Aramid Fibre, Carbon Fibre, Composites and Nylon

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Fibre.
Promotion and Market Development
The Indian Textiles Market contribute 6% of the global technical textiles. The Indian Technical
Textiles market is estimated to be 16 billion USD and the global market is 250 billion USD.
Under this component, the mission is to work towards taking the Indian Technical Textiles
market to 40 to 50 billion USD by 2024.
The above goal is to be achieved by international technical collaboration, market promotion
and investment promotion.
Export Promotion
Education, Training and Skill Development
Significance
It is important to develop National Technical Textiles Mission because they are used in roads. Agriculture,
sportswear, railway tracks and space applications.
RAISE 2020: An International “Artificial Intelligence” Summit to be organised by GoI
The Government of India (GoI) is to organize an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit called RAISE 2020. RAISE
stands for Responsible AI for Social Empowerment. The Summit is to be held in New Delhi between April 11
and 12, 2020.
Highlights
The summit will be attended by experts of Artificial Intelligence from all over the world. It will focus on
using AI towards social empowerment, transformation and inclusion and also in other key areas such as
agriculture, healthcare, smart mobility and education.
Significance
It is essential to implement AI in social transformation as it will help in bringing regulatory changes. It will
improve the efficiency of work places, reduce operating costs. With autonomous transportation, AI can help
save large amounts of fuel and time.
Negative Impacts
Though there are several benefits of Artificial Intelligence, the only concern towards the technology is that it
has the potential to minimize the work force in a sector. Especially in a country like India that is second
most populous in the world, it is essential to keep track that AI does not reduce employment opportunities.
The Summit will help understand all these key areas and act accordingly.
Union Cabinet approves changes introduced in Surrogacy (Regulation) bill
On February 26, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the changes introduced to the Surrogacy (Regulation) bill,
2019. The changes were introduced by the 23-member select committee of Rajya Sabha.
Highlights
The changes approved include not only close relatives but “any woman” willing to act as a surrogate mother
shall be allowed. It has also approved deleting the definition of infertility. Earlier infertility in the bill was
defined as inability to conceive after unprotected intercourse for 5 years. The committee believed that it
was too long period for a couple to wait for a child. The Insurance Cover of a surrogate mother is to be
increased from 16 months to 36 months.
Background
The Surrogacy (Regulation) bill was passed in Lok Sabha in 2019. The aim of the bill was to prevent
commercial surrogacy. It also aims to promote altruistic surrogacy that does not demand monetary
compensation apart from medical expenses and insurance.
EASE 3.0 launched by the Finance Minister to enhance Ease of Banking
On February 26, 2020, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman launched Enhanced Access and Service

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Excellence (EASE 3.0). It was launched along with the annual report of EASE 2.0 at a function organized by
Indian Banks’ Association.
Highlights
The main aim of EASE 3.0 is to make public sector banking technology enabled and smart. By this the
initiative intends to achieve ease of banking for customers. Along with its launch, the GoI has also warned
about the over reliance of the state-run banks on credit rating agencies while sanctioning loans.
What is EASE?
EASE is set of technology-based banking reforms. It aims at improvising banking sector with technology. It
ensures wider financial inclusion, better banking experience and easier credit distribution.
Significance
The initiative will enhance paperless, digital banking. It will also support other GoI initiatives such as
Udyami Mitra, credit take-off, Dial-a-loan and credit at a click. EASE will increase the reach all these
initiatives and improve the standards of banking sector.
Cabinet Approval: Occupancy rights to Scheduled Tribes of Lakshadweep
On February 26, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved amendments to provide occupancy rights to Scheduled
Tribes of Lakshadweep. The approval was provided to amend the Laccadive, Minicoy and Amindivi Islands
Land Revenue and Tenancy Regulation, 1965.
Highlights
The Scheduled Tribes in the island did not have occupancy rights so far. The Occupancy right is the right to
occupy and use tribal area.
Background
Lakshadweep is an Archipelago with 12 atolls, five submerged banks and three reefs. There are 17
uninhabited islands in the region. According to Census 2011, there are 64,429 persons in the island. Of this
93% of the population are indigenous and the entire indigenous population in the island has been classified
as Scheduled Tribes due to their social and Economic Backwardness.
According to the SC and ST list (modification order), 1956, the inhabitants born to both parents born in the
islands are alone treated as Scheduled Tribes.
Malayalam is the spoken language in the island.
Market Intelligence and Early Warning Systems to monitor prices of Onion, Tomato and Potato
On February 26, 2020, the Minister of Food Processing Industry launched Market Intelligence and Early
Warning System (MIEWS) Web Portal in New Delhi. The MIEWS is first of its kind.
Highlights
The main function of MIEWS is to monitor prices of onion, tomato and potato (TOP crops). It will also
generate alerts under the terms of Operations Green Scheme. The portal will also provide information
related to prices, yield and production, arrivals, crop agronomy, imports and exports, etc.
Operation Green Scheme
Under Operation Green Scheme, the surplus production from producing areas are taken to consumption
centres. In order to achieve this, the scheme provides guidelines under which the surplus production are
allowed to be taken to markets. They are as follows
If the prices of the vegetables are less than the average market prices of preceding 3 years
If the prices are more than 50% of the previous year market price
IF the prices are less than the bench mark fixed by the State or Central Government.
Largest conference on traditional medicine: AYUSH Terminologies and their Standardisation held
in New Delhi
On February 26, 2020, the largest ever conference on traditional medicine was held in New Delhi. The

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ICoSDiTAUS-2020 called the International Conference on Standardisation of Diagnosis and Terminologies of
AYUSH was attended by 16 countries. It included Serbia, Sri Lanka, Curacao, Mauritius, Iran, Japan, Qatar,
Uzbekistan, Bhutan, Switzerland, Myanmar, Cuba, Ghana, Jamaica, Equatorial Guinea and India.
The Conference was organized by the Ministry of AYUSH.
Highlights
The major topic that was discussed at the conference includes “Challenges in Counting and Classification
of Traditional Medicine Encounters”. It also discussed about International Classification of Diseases based
on traditional medicinal systems.
Significance
AYUSH is acronym of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy. GoI has been taking
several steps to promote AYUSH. One such step is this conference of standardization. It is important
because, AYUSH helps to find cost effective treatment. For a populous country like India where expenditure
on health sector is just 1.17% of GDP (2019), cost effective treatments like AYUSH have vital role.
VAJRA: The Offshore Patrol Vessel-6 launched at Chennai
th
On February 27, 2020, the 6 Coast Guard OPV-6 (Offshore Patrol Vessel-6) called the “VAJRA” was
launched in Chennai. https://t.me/UPSC_PDF
Highlights
The OPV will assist Indian Navy in guarding 7,500 km long coast line and 20 lakh square kilo metre of
Exclusive Economic Zone. It will also help to safeguard one lakh merchant ships transiting in the Indian
Ocean from all over the world.
The OPV is to be utilized for patrolling, surveying, anti-smuggling and anti-terrorist operations. The OPV has
two navigational radars installed.
Indian Coast Guard
Indian Coast Guard is an armed force of India. It protects the maritime interests of India and also enforces
maritime law in the territorial waters of India. The Indian Coast Guard operates under Ministry of Defence.
There are 5 Indian Coast Guard Regions in India. They are Western Region (Mumbai), Eastern Region
(Chennai), North-East Region (Kolkata), Andaman and Nicobar Region (Port Blair) and North-West Regions
(Gandhinagar).
Sri Lanka withdraws from UNHRC Resolution
On February 26, 2020, the Sri Lankan Government formally notified the United Nations that it will withdraw
from the UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Council) resolution.
Highlights
The UNHRC resolution 40/1 was co-sponsored by Sri Lanka and 11 other countries. The main aim of the
resolution is investigation of war time violence against Tamil Tiger rebels.
The Tamil Rebels were demanding separate homeland. They were claiming that they were ethnic tamil
minority and hence are eligible for separate homeland.
The US-China Factor
The United States barred the Sri Lankan Army Chief from entering the US soil accusing him of war crimes.
Experts believe that the decision of Sri Lanka to withdraw from UNHRC is an after effect of US move.
Why?
Today, China has taken the port of Hambantota in Sri Lanka for a lease of 99 years. It is now used by the
Chinese as a Naval base. There are more such upper hands of the Chinese in the internal political matters
of Sri Lanka. With China’s greater presence in Sri Lanka and its defence forces, US was hesitant towards the
Sri Lankan Army Chief visit to the US.

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February 28, 2020
Myanmar President Visits India: India-Myanmar sign 10 MoUs
On February 27, 2020, the Myanmar President U Win Myint visited India. During his visit, India and Myanmar
signed 10 MoUs in different sectors.
Highlights
The leaders signed agreements on Repatriation and Re-integration of Victims of trafficking, Quick Impact
Projects, Development of Rakhine State, etc. They also signed Memorandum of Understandings on
construction of schools, roads, water supply systems and solar power systems.
Rakhine State
The Rakhine State of Myanmar is the region of ongoing conflict between buddhist community and Rohingya
community. The Conflict began during world war II. During World War II, the Rohingya Muslims fought along
side British against the Rakhine Buddhists in return of a separate Muslim state.
The current Myanmar Government is facing international condemnation including the United Nations. And is
hence finding ways to develop the region. The agreement aims to help Myanmar develop the state of
Rakhine.
It is to be noted that India has joined hands with the Myanmar Government in building Sitwe port and the
port is situated in the state of Rakhine. The port is also a part of the Kaladan Multi Model Transit Project.
Light Combat Helicopter Production inaugurated in HAL Bengaluru
On February 27, 2020, the Defence Minister Raj Nath Singh inaugurated Light combat Helicopter production
at the HAL complex in Bengaluru. The project is a part of the “Make in India” initiative.
Light Combat Helicopters
The Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) were completely designed by HAL. It has 2 engines and several latest
technical features. The helicopters are to be deployed at the Siachen base which is 4,700 metres above the
sea level. It has the capacity to carry 500 kg of load.
Significance
India has been taking several steps to strengthen the Indian Air Force and also to increase Defence Exports.
India has set a target of achieving Rs 35,000 crores of Defence Exports by 2024. Manufacturing of the Light
Combat Helicopter will help India achieving the above goals.
Background
The need for the production of Light Combat Helicopters came from Kargil war. The LCH is a derivative of
HAL Dhruv that was developed during 1990s.
NITI Aayog launches Artificial Intelligence Modules in Schools
The GoI think tank NITI Aayog joined hands with the National Association of Software and Services
(NASSCOM) and launched the Artificial Intelligence module for school students. The NITI Aayog is to be
represented by Atal Innovation Mission of the think tank.
Highlights
The Artificial Intelligence module is to be implemented in 5,000 Atal Tinkering labs and this is to empower
2.5 million students. NITI Aayog believes that India shall add 1.3% of its GDP if machine learning and
Artificial Intelligence are developed.
Significance
It is expected that the global Artificial Market is likely to grow to the range of 15 to 15.5 trillion USD by
2030. Of this India is to certainly contribute 1 trillion USD. Therefore, its is important to prepare work power
to sustain the growth of the field. If Indian work power is not being prepared to fill the future requirement,
the spaces will be occupied by foreign nationals. This will create unemployment amongst Indian citizens
and also push Indian economy backwards.

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Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana: 32 projects sanctioned
On February 27, 2020, the Inter-Ministerial Approval Committee chaired by the Minister of Food Processing
sanctioned 32 projects under Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana (PMKSY).
Highlights
The projects sanctioned have the capacity to create 15,000 employment opportunities. The projects aim at
increasing the shelf life of agricultural produce and provide steady revenue for the farmers.
Significance
The market of processed food is growing at a rate of 8% every year. Therefore, by the end of 2020 it is
expected to reach 543 billion USD from 322 billion USD in 2016.
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana
The Scheme was launched in 2016 for a period of 4 years, that is, till 2020. The GoI had allocated Rs 6,000
crores for the scheme. The scheme was launched to develop seven major components namely Integrated
Cold Chain, Mega Food Parks, Infrastructure for Agro-Processing clusters, food safety, expansion of food
processing, human resources and institutions, quality assurance infrastructure.
The scheme mainly aims at creating food processing units and developing the existing ones.
GoI to establish Central Consumer Protection Authority
The GoI recently decided to establish Central Consumer Protection Authority under the Consumer
Protection act, 2019.
Consumer Protection Authority
The authority protects, promotes and enforces rights of the consumers. It also regulates matters that are
related to unfair trade practices, violation of consumer rights and misleading advertisements.
Central Consumer Protection act, 2019
The act was passed to strengthen consumer rights. It replaced the Consumer Protection act, 1986. The act
defines 6 consumer acts namely right to safety, right to be informer, right to choose, right to be heard, right
to consumer education and right to grievance redressal.
Misleading Advertisements
The act gives special focus to stop misleading advertisements. The Section 21 of the Consumer Protection
act, 2019 deals with misleading advertisements. Under the Section 21 of the act, the consumer Protection
Authority may impose penalty upto Rs 10 lakhs on the advertiser, manufacturer, trader or even the endorser.
The Authority has powers to ban the endorser as well.
February 28: National Science Day
Every year on February 28, India celebrates National Science Day to mark the discovery of Raman Effect by
Sir C V Raman. Raman Effect was discovered by the professor on February 28, 1928. This year, the National
Science Day is celebrated under the theme
Theme: Women in Science
History
The National Science Day was first designated in 1986 and was first celebrated in 1987. Sir C V Raman
announced his discovery on this day. He was later awarded the Nobel Prize for this discovery in 1930.
It was the National Council for Science and Technology that asked the GoI to pronounce February 28 as the
National Science Day. The Council operates under Department of Science and Technology and is the nodal
agency in implementing the celebrations of the day.
Raman Effect
The Effect states about scattering of light. When a beam of light comes out of a liquid, the light wave
scattered in a direction is different from that of the incoming light wave.

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GoI to increase reach of banking in the North-East Tea Garden areas
On February 27, 2020, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman announced that the banking in the North East
Region is to be increased.
Highlights
The minister in a meeting with economists, trade and industry representatives and policy experts
announced that the banking in the tea garden regions of the north east is to be increased. This is being
done to cover greater population of the North East under Financial Inclusion.
Background
The main challenge in implementing Financial Inclusive schemes in the tea gardens of Assam or any other
tea-based region is daily wages. The tea garden workers prefer cash in hand. This is mainly because most
of the workers here are women and are illiterate.
In 2016, when digital India was being implemented widely all over India, discussions were held to direct
Assam Gramin Vikas Bank and State Bank of india to overcome the problem of daily wagers and their
demand for cash in hand. However, the results were not as expected. Therefore, the GoI has now decided to
increase the banking services and infrastructure to increase banking in the region.
Eastern Zonal Council Meet to be held in Bhubaneswar
The Eastern Zonal Council meeting for the states of Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal and Jharkhand is to be
chaired by home Minister Amit Shah. The meeting is to discuss cases of rape against women, sexual
offences, prevention of cattle smuggling in the India-Bangladesh Border, etc.
Highlights
The Home Minister will discuss with the Chief Ministers of all the 4 participating states. The minister will
also review the status of the amendments of Code of Criminal Procedure. Under the amendment, the time
limit of the completion of investigation of criminal cases were limited to two months. This was done
through the Criminal Law Amendment Act, 2018
Previous Councils
In the recent meetings of Western Zonal Council and Northern Zonal Council, the Home Minister directed
the state police review pending cases as quickly as possible. The Council also instructed to update case
details at Investigation Tracking System for Sexual Offences. It is an online portal that helps states to
undertake real-time monitoring, managing and completion of cases, especially rape cases in 2 months.
Zonal Council
Zonal Councils are statutory bodies constituted under States Reorganization Act of 1956. According to the
act, India is divided into 5 zones and a council has been set up for every zone. The zones include Northern,
Eastern, Western, Southern and Central. In 1971, the North Eastern council was created.
February 29, 2020
Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana: PM distributes aids and devices to Divyangjan and Senior Citizens
On February 29, 2020, PM Modi is to distribute assistive aids and devices to senior citizens and Divyangjan.
This is the biggest ever distribution camp.
Highlights
The distribution camp of assistive aids and devices for senior citizens and Divyangjans by PM Modi is being
organized by the Ministry of Social Justice. The objective of the event is to propagate information to senior
citizens and Divyangjan belonging to Below Poverty Line category about how to face their challenges in day-
to-day life.
Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana
The RVY was launched in 2016 at Nellore, Andhra Pradesh. Since then 137 of these device distribution
camps have been conducted.

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The main aim of the scheme is to provide assisstive aids and devices to senior citizens and Divyangjans.
Significance
According to Census 2011, there are 10.38 crores of senior citizens. And of these, more than 70% of them
live in rural areas. Therefore, it is essential to take special care towards them through these camps
organized under Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana.
Mission Purvodaya: India-Japan join hands to make Odisha a Steel Hub
On February 28, 2020, the Union Minister of Steel announced at a workshop organized by Confederation of
Indian Industries (CII) that GoI is to make Odisha the steel hub of India. This is to be achieved by the
Government with the help of Japan.
Highlights
Odisha has been selected to establish steel hub due to its strategic location, availability of raw materials
and strong connectivity. The city of Kalinga Nagar is to be developed as the epicenter of Mission
Purvodaya. With implementation of the mission, more than 75% of steel is to come from eastern India with
Odisha alone contributing more than 100 metric tonnes per annum.
Mission Purvodaya
The mission was launched in January 2020. It aims to develop Eastern India as an integrated steel hub.
Under the mission, the GoI aims to generate employment opportunities and also increase growth of steel
sector.
This will also help achieve the target of National Steel Policy, which is producing 300 MT of steel by 2030.
PM Modi launches 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations
On February 29, 2020, PM Modi shall launch 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations at Chitrakoot. The event
is being organized to commemorate the successful completion of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi
Yojana.
Significance
There are more than 86% of small and marginal farmers that hold less than 1.1 hectares of land. They face
challenges in buying fertilizers, quality seed, pesticides. The Farmer Producer Organization help farmers in
addressing these challenges. They help farmers gain better access to market, technology and finance.
Therefore, launching more and more of these organizations will help in betterment of life of the farmers.
This will also help GoI in achieving its target of doubling farmers’ income by 2022.
Kisan Credit Card
The PM will also launch a saturation drive on Kisan Credit Card to the beneficiaries PM Kisan Samman Nidhi
Yojana. The motive of the drive is to distribute 2 crore cards to the beneficiaries of the scheme. Today, over
6.5 crore cards have been issued under the scheme.
February 29: World Rare Disease Day
Every Year, last date of February is observed as World Rare Disease Day. It was first launched by Eurordis in
2008. It aims to create awareness about the impacts of the disease. This year, it is observed on the theme
Theme: Reframe Rare for Rare Disease Day
Rare Diseases
The rare diseases include Thalassemia, Haemophilia, Sickle Cell Anaemia and primary immune deficiency
according to WHO.
India
There are more than 70 million people that are affected by rare diseases in India. In order to fight against
rare diseases, the Union Ministry of Health released National Policy for Rare Diseases.
National Policy on Rare Diseases
The National Policy on Rare Diseases aims to provide treatment up to Rs 15 lakhs. It proposes to set up a

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registry under ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research). The policy categorizes rare diseases into three
categories namely disorders requiring long term or long-life therapy, disorders amenable to one-time
treatment and incurable rare disease disorders that require lifelong supportive care.
World Productivity Congress in India after 45 years of gap
The World Productivity Congress has been conducted by the World Confederation of Productivity Science
since 1969. It was last held in India in 1974. The Congress is held under the theme
Theme: Industry 4.0-Innovation and Productivity
Highlights
The 19th World Productivity Congress to be held in Bengaluru aims at catalyzing government approaches in
enhancing productivity. It is to be held between May 6, 2020 and May 8, 2020.
Purpose
The Congress will act as a platform to shape future productivity growth. It will also help India and other
attending stakeholders to learn innovative approaches that are essential to support the growing population.
It is expected that the world population will reach 9.7 billion by 2050 and 11.2 billion by 2100 according to
the United Nations.
Significance
According to the World Economic Forum, India will become the third largest economy in the world after US
and China by 2030. Also, in the next few years India is expected to grow at 7% though it is facing a
slowdown currently. This huge market potential of India makes it an ideal choice for the 19th world
productivity congress.
ICGS Varad: First Major Defence ship to clear all acceptance Trials in a Single Sea Sortie
On February 28, 2020, the Indian Coast Guard’S ICGS Varad, an Offshore Patrol Vessel was commissioned
at Chennai port. The vessel is to operate under North Eastern Coast Guard Region.
Highlights
The ICGS was built by L&T at Kattupalli near Chennai. It is 98 metres long and holds modern navigation and
communication equipment. It is also equipped with 30 mm and 12.7 mm guns. The vessel also holds other
onboard features such as platform management systems, integrated bridge system, high power external fire
fighting system, etc.
Special Features of the vessel
The Patrol vessel is equipped with pollution responsible equipment for oil spill at sea and also swift
boarding operations. It is also capable of carrying a twin-engine helicopter and also 4 high speed boats.
The vessel is the first defence ship to clear the acceptance trials in a single sea sortie. In simple words, the
vessel cleared the trials of checking of its military operations in a single go.
What is Sortie?
Sortie is deployment of military unit in aircraft and shipping. It is a combat mission that an individual
aircraft deploys as it takes off.
Quiz:February 16-17, 2020
1. The National Maritime Heritage Complex (NMHC) is to be set up in which Indian state?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Gujarat
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Kerala
Answer: Gujarat
India and Portugal recently signed an MoU to develop a world-class National Maritime Heritage Complex
(NMHC) at Lothal in Gujarat. The MoU has been signed in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi

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and Portugal President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, during his visit to India.
The complex would showcase rich Indian artefacts and create awareness among the public about the
rich heritage of the country. The two countries also signed as many as 14 agreements in several fields
including maritime transport and ports.
2. Which is the first and only private firm to build and deliver research ships in India?
[A] Titagarh Wagons Ltd
[B] Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
[C] Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
[D] Goa Shipyard
Answer:
Titagarh Wagons Ltd
Indian private firm Titagarh Wagons Ltd has recently commissioned the second coastal research vessel
‘Sagar Anveshika’, for Chennai-based National Institute of Ocean Technology.
The ship has been delivered four months ahead of the schedule. The firm had received the order for the
ship in 2017. The first research ship named ‘Sagar Tara’ was delivered to the institute in the month of
August 2019. By commissioning both the vessels, it has become the first and only private firm to build
and deliver research ships in the country.
3. What is the theme of the 56th Munich Security Conference (MSC) 2020?
[A] Westlessness
[B] Sustainable Development Goals
[C] We Can Work Together
[D] Security for All
Answer: Westlessness
The 56th edition of the Munich Security Conference (MSC) has recently commenced in Germany’s
southern city, Munich. The theme of this year’s conference is selected to be “Westlessness”.
Indian External Affairs Minister S.Jaishankar has represented India in the conference. More than 500
international leaders, including 35 heads of state and as many as 100 Foreign and Defence ministers
have gathered in the city, to discuss current security crises and challenges
4. What is the name of the third corporate passenger train of India?
[A] Tejas Express
[B] Kashi Mahakal Express
[C] Kashi Indore Express
[D] Kashi Vishwanath Express
Answer: Kashi Mahakal Express
The subsidiary of Indian Railways, IRCTC is set to launch its third corporate passenger train Kashi
Mahakal Express on the Varanasi-Indore Route. It is a premium train to be run by IRCTC, that will
connect three temples namely Omkareshwar temple near Indore, Mahakaleshwar temple of Ujjain and
Kashi Vishwanath temple of Varanasi.
After Tejas Express trains, which are being run on the Lucknow-Delhi and Ahmedabad-Mumbai routes,
this is the third private train which will be operated to connect religious places of Madhya Pradesh and
Uttar Pradesh.
5. ‘Kambala’, which was in news recently, is a traditional sport of which state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Andhra Pradesh

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[C] Kerala
[D] Tamil Nadu
Answer: Karnataka
Kambala is a traditional sport of Karnataka, in which the people of coastal districts of the state conduct
a buffalo-race.
It was in news recently as one of the local contestants from Dakshina Kannada district named Srinivas
Gowda covered 142.5 m Kambala in just 13.62 seconds. The Sports Authority of India recently
announced that it will devise a suitable course for the runner. He is called for trials by the Sports
Ministry.
6. Yash Bharti Award is the highest award of which Indian state/UT?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Odisha
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Punjab
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
Yash Bharti Award is the highest award of the state Government of Uttar Pradesh which was instituted in
the year 1994. The state has recently announced that Yash Bharti Award is to be replaced with State
Cultural Award.
State Cultural Award will be presented to the great personalities of the state, who contribute to the state
in several fields including music, modern and traditional art Ramlila, folk dialects, lake-dance and
sculpture. Cash prize is also to be included in the award.
7. Which state commenced operations of India’s first Inter-City Electric Bus service?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Odisha
[D] Telangana
Answer: Maharashtra
India’s first inter-city electric bus service was recently inaugurated in the state of Maharashtra between
Mumbai and Pune by the Union Transport minister Nitin Gadkari.
The luxury electric bus with 43-seater capacity has been manufactured by a private firm and being
operated by another Maharashtra-based mobility firm. The bus would be operated twice daily between
the two cities.
8. As per the recent ‘Military Balance’ report, the defence modernisation of which country led to higher
military spending by the US?
[A] Russia
[B] China
[C] Japan
[D] India
Answer: China
London-based research institute, the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) recently released
its annual “Military Balance” report. It stated that Global spending on defence increased by four percent
in 2019 and it is the largest growth in 10 years.
The increase is led by huge increases from the US and China. It also revealed that the defence
modernisation of China led to higher defence spending by the US. Both China and the US increased their

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spending by 6.6 per cent, as per the report.
9. Udyani Mane, who was in news recently, is an Indian player of which sports?
[A] Tennis
[B] Wrestling
[C] Golf
[D] Badminton
Answer: Golf
Udayan Mane was recently seen in news, as the Pune-based Golfer recently won the TATA Steel PGTI
Players Championship. He defeated his fellow player Veer Ahlawat of Gurugram.
Udayan Mane has also clinched the last two PGTI events including the TATA Steel Tour Championship
2019 and Golconda Masters 2020. He became only the second player to win three consecutive events of
the TATA Steel PGTI.
10. Which country has recently developed a recovery-plasma to treat COVID-19 infected patients?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] Thailand
[D] Japan
Answer: China
The biotechnology research company of China- ‘China National Biotec Group’ has developed
convalescent plasma to treat the patients who are infected with the COVID-19 (novel corona virus)
The company has collected plasma from some of the recovered patients in the Wuhan city of China and
developed therapeutic products that include convalescent plasma and immune globulin. They are used
to treat critically ill patients, who have shown significant improvement with the treatment.
Quiz:18-Feb-20
1. ‘Yodhavu’ (Warrior), a mobile application for curbing drug menace, is an initiative of which state?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Kerala
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Telangana
Answer: Kerala
The Chief Minister of Kerala Pinarayi Vijayan recently launched the mobile application called ‘Yodhavu’
(Warrior), for curbing drug menace in the state.
The Police Department of Kochi, Kerala has introduced the application, through which the public can
inform police about drug abuse and distribution of drugs. The identity of the informer would be kept
secret, according to the police. A cyberdom cyber crime police station was also inaugurated by the Chief
Minister.
2. The late External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj was born in which city, where she was elected as MLA
twice?
[A] Ambala Cantt, Haryana
[B] Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh
[C] Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat
[D] Ludhiana, Punjab
Answer: Ambala Cantt, Haryana
The late Union External Affairs Minister of India and a veteran politician of BJP, Sushma Swaraj was

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born in Ambala Cantt, Haryana, where she was elected as MLA twice.
Recently, the 18-Crore newly-constructed bus-stand of Ambala city was renamed after Sushma Swaraj.
The senior leader passed away last year in the month of August, at the age of 67. She has been named
as the recipient of Padma Vibhushan award this year, posthumously.
3. What is the current accounting year of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?
[A] April-March
[B] July-June
[C] January-December
[D] May-April
Answer: July-June
The current accounting year of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is July-June. Recently, the Central Board
of Directors of the RBI recommended to align the accounting year of RBI with the financial year of the
government (April-March), from 2020-21.
The RBI board announced this proposal at its 582nd meeting and approved to forward the proposal to
the government for receiving its consideration. Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman addressed
the meeting.
4. What is the objective of the ‘CREDAI Awaas’ mobile application, recently launched by CREDAI?
[A] Redressal of Consumer Grievance
[B] Ease of purchase of Residential properties
[C] Geo-tagging of Residential properties
[D] Approval for Residential properties
Answer: Ease of purchase of Residential properties
Confederation of Real Estate Developers’ Associations of India (CREDAI) is the apex body of Private Real
Estate Developers Associations. It has launched a mobile application called ‘CREDAI Awaas’, which aims
to facilitate ease of purchase of residential properties by homebuyers.
Through this application, a credible platform is created for prospective home buyers so that they identify
suitable Residential properties and contact their developers directly. The details of the CREDAI member
developers are displayed in the application.
5. Joshna Chinappa and Saurav Ghosal are associated with which sports?
[A] Badminton
[B] Squash
[C] Tennis
[D] Table-Tennis
Answer: Squash
The Squash Rackets Federation of India (SRFI)-77th Senior National squash championships was recently
held at Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
Ace Indian squash player Joshna Chinappa clinched the women’s title by beating Tanvi Khanna, while
another top-rated player Saurav Ghosal bagged the men’s title by defeating Abhishek Pradhan in straight
sets. The champions were awarded a prize money of Rs. 1,25,000 each.
6. Which city was host to the India-Bangladesh SAMPRITI-IX joint military exercise?
[A] Umroi
[B] Kolkata
[C] Vishakhapatnam
[D] Kochi

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Answer: Umroi
The 9th edition of the Joint exercise between the armies of India and Bangladesh, SAMPRITI recently
concluded at Umroi, Meghalaya. The two-week exercise was held from February 3 to 16, 2020.
The personnel of the two countries shared their experiences on counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism
operations and disaster management techniques. The exercise helped to strengthen ties between India
and Bangladesh, and mutual operability between the armies.
7. As of 2020, which is the only Bollywood movie to win 13 Filmfare Awards?
[A] Uri: The Surgical Strike
[B] Article 15
[C] Saand Ki Aankh
[D] Gully Boy
Answer: Gully Boy
The Bollywood movie based on the life of two rap singers, Gully Boy created history in the Filmfare
awards by winning 13 of them. The film won in all 13 categories, which it was nominated in.
In the event held in Guwahati, the film beat the previous record of 11 awards held by ‘Black’ by winning in
categories that include Best Film, Best Director for Zoya Akhtar, Best Actor for Ranveer Singh and Best
Actress for Alia Bhatt. It also bagged Supporting Role Male and Female, Best Music Album and Best
Lyrics.
8. What is the theme of Telangana’s biotechnology and life sciences forum ‘BioAsia 2020’?
[A] Life Science for All
[B] Today For Tomorrow
[C] Instrumental Life Sciences
[D] Better Bio-tech
Answer: Today For Tomorrow
The 17th edition of Asia’s largest biotechnology and life sciences forum, ‘BioAsia 2020’ recently
commenced in the city of Hyderabad, Telangana.
The three-day event began with the theme of ‘Today for Tomorrow’. More than 2000 delegates from as
many as 37 countries. A massive exhibition with 175 exhibitors and experts is also set to be organised.
Switzerland, which is the partner country of this year’s conference, has sent its 40-member to participate
in the event.
9. ‘Appreciate and Commend’ is a scheme of which state, which aims to honour outstanding Police officers?
[A] Odisha
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Punjab
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Answer: Punjab
The Police Department of Punjab has recently launched an award scheme called ‘Appreciate and
Commend’. The DGP of Punjab launched the scheme, which aims to honour the Police officers who
perform their duties diligently.
Under the scheme, the District Police chiefs will submit nominations of outstanding cops at the end of
every month. A committee of senior officers would screen them and the awardees would be announced
every month.
10. Which city plays host to ‘GulFood 2020’, the world’s largest annual food and beverage trade exhibition?
[A] Riyadh

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[B] Abu Dhabi
[C] Dubai
[D] Doha
Answer: Dubai
‘GulFood 2020’, the world’s largest annual food and beverage trade exhibition is being held in the Dubai
World Trade Centre city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), form February 16 to 20.
In the 25th edition of the exhibition, more than 5000 exhibitors are to participate. The Indian pavilion at
the exhibition was recently inaugurated by the Union Minister for Food Processing Industries-Harsimrat
Kaur Badal.
Quiz:19-Feb-20
1. ERO NET, which was in news recently, is a portal of which autonomous organisation of India?
[A] All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS)
[B] Election Commission of India (ECI)
[C] Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
[D] Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA)
Answer: Election Commission of India (ECI)
The Election Commission of India was awarded ‘Silver’ award for ‘Excellence in Government Process re-
engineering for Digital transformation’ from the Department of Administrative Reforms and Public
Grievances (DARPG), during the 23rd National Conference on e-Governance held at Mumbai.
The award is presented to ECI for its portal ERO-NET. The portal uses a mechanism to effectively enter
an applicant in E-roll. It is used for various functions like processing of forms, easy handling of the
databases and maintenance of E-Rolls.
2. Who was recently named as the nominee for the proposed Delimitation Commission for Jammu and
Kashmir?
[A] Sunil Arora
[B] Sushil Chandra
[C] Om Prakash Rawat
[D] A K Jyoti
Answer: Sushil Chandra
Election Commissioner Sushil Chandra has been named as the nominee for the proposed Delimitation
Commission for Jammu and Kashmir, by the Chief Election Commissioner Sunil Arora, after a request
from the government.
As per the J-K Reorganisation Act, 2019, the number of Legislative Assembly seats of Jammu and
Kashmir UT shall be increased from 107 to 114, and delimitation of the constituencies shall be
determined by the Election Commission of India.
3. The first Bird-ringing station of the country with support of a state government, is to be built in which
state/ UT?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Bihar
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Odisha
Answer: Bihar
The first Bird-ringing station of the country, set up with support of a state government, is to be built in
the state of Bihar. This is the fourth such facility in the country. The station, whose main centre is to be

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built at Bhagalpur, is dedicated for observation, monitoring and research on migratory birds. Rings with
chips to track source and origin of birds are placed on their legs.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was exchanged between representatives of the Bihar
government and the Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), during the COP-13 CMS summit.
4. Which Taxi-hailing start-up recently integrated with the Himmat application of Delhi Police?
[A] Ola
[B] Uber
[C] Didi
[D] Lyft
Answer: Uber
Taxi hailing app Uber recently announced that it has integrated with the Himmat application of Delhi
Police.
Under this partnership, Uber and Delhi Police distributed nearly 1,000 Himmat QR Verification Cards to
driver partners. The passenger can report their journey directly to the Delhi Police, by scanning the QR
card via the app. They can also access details of the diver and vehicle. Sharing the ride information is
optional to passengers.
5. Which global financial institution is set to grant $450 million loan to India for Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABHY)?
[A] Asian Development Bank
[B] World Bank
[C] Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
[D] New Development Bank
Answer: World Bank
The Indian government and the World Bank recently signed a USD 450 million loan agreement to support
the national programme Atal Bhujal Yojana (ABHY).
The National programme was launched with an objective of arresting the groundwater depletion and
strengthening groundwater institutions. The World Bank-supported programme will be implemented in
the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Haryana, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh
and cover 78 districts.
6. Who is the head of the High level expert group on farm exports, recently set up by the 15th Finance
Commission?
[A] N K Singh
[B] U K Sinha
[C] Tapan Ray
[D] Sanjiv Puri
Answer: Sanjiv Puri
The 15th Finance Commission (FFC) recently set up a High level expert group on farm exports. The
group is to be headed by the Chairman and Managing director of ITC, Sanjiv Puri.
The committee comprises various members including Former agriculture secretary- Radha Singh and
chairman of APEDA- Paban K. Borthakur. The committee will suggest performance-based incentives to
the state governments for 2021-22 to 2025-26, to accelerate agricultural reforms and exports in the
sector.
7. Which organisation has recently initiated the process of capturing district-wise data on origin of export
goods?
[A] Export and Import Bank of India

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[B] Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
[C] NITI Aayog
[D] Export Promotion Council
Answer: Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs
The Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC) has recently started to capture district-wise
data on origin of export goods.
This proposed export information will provide a comprehensive statistical input about the importance of
each district, to policymakers. Hence the policies could be aligned with better knowledge of districts and
thereby enhancing the local potential.
8. As per the recent report of World Population Review, what is the rank of India in the ‘Largest Economy of
the World’ list?
[A] Seventh
[B] Sixth
[C] Fifth
[D] Fourth
Answer: Fifth
World Population Review, a US-based think tank, recently stated in its report that India emerged as the
world’s fifth largest economy in 2019, with a GDP of $ 2.94 trillion. India has overtaken the UK and
France, to be placed in the 5th position.
The report also stated that in Purchasing power parity (PPP) terms, India’s GDP (PPP) is $ 10.51 trillion,
which is also ahead of Japan and Germany. It also revealed that India’s real GDP growth will decrease
for the third year from 7.5 per cent to 5 per cent.
9. Which city plays host to the ‘3rd Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety’?
[A] Stockholm
[B] Oslo
[C] Helsinki
[D] Warsaw
Answer: Stockholm
The 3rd High Level Global Ministerial Conference on Road Safety has been recently hosted in Stockholm,
the capital city of Sweden.
India’s Union Minister for Road Transport & Highways and MSMEs, Nitin Gadkari is to represent India.
The theme of the conference is ‘Achieving Global Goals 2030’. The Global Conference is co-sponsored
by the World Health Organization (WHO).
10. What is the name of the storm which hit the United Kingdom in February 2020?
[A] Habine
[B] Dennis
[C] Kyar
[D] Ciara
Answer: Dennis
The United Kingdom recently witnessed a devastating storm named ‘Dennis’, after which the weather
agency of the country issued a Danger to life warning.
There were widespread flooding and heavy winds across the country. In the last 48 hours, as many as
594 warnings and alerts had been issued. The places which were affected include South Wales and
parts of western England. The storm also hit some parts of France.

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Quiz:20-Feb-20
1. What is the name of the fourth warship delivered by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers-GRSE to
the Indian Navy?
[A] INS Kiltan
[B] INS Kamorta
[C] INS Kadmatt
[D] INS Kavaratti
Answer: INS Kavaratti
Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE), a defence PSU based at Kolkata has recently
delivered an anti-submarine warfare stealth corvette named ‘INS Kavaratti’ to the Indian Navy.
This is the fourth and the last of the ASWC series built by the PSU GRSE, under Project 28 class. The
other three warships earlier delivered were- INS Kamorta, INS Kadmatt and INS Kiltan. Kavaratii and
Kiltan are the first two major warships of India to possess a superstructure made of carbon fiber
composite material.
2. The ‘Task Force on Blue Economy for Sustainable Development’ is a collaboration between India and
which country?
[A] Switzerland
[B] Norway
[C] Sweden
[D] France
Answer: Norway
The India-Norway Task Force on Blue Economy for Sustainable Development was recently inaugurated
by India’s Earth Sciences Minister- Harsh Vardhan and Norway’s Minister for Climate and Environment.
The two countries also started a new framework for cooperation in ‘Integrated Ocean Management &
Research’. The task force was introduced in January 2019, jointly by the Prime Ministers of India and
Norway.
3. ‘Berlinale’ is the 70th edition of which famous festival, which is set to be inaugurated in Germany?
[A] Berlin Food Festival
[B] Berlin Film Festival
[C] Berlin Defence Show
[D] Berlin Arts Fair
Answer: Berlin Film Festival
The 70th edition of the famous Berlin film festival “Berlinale” is set to be held from 20th February to 1st
march, this year. The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting of India, in collaboration with
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), is participating in the festival.
Union External Affairs Minister of India, S. Jaishankar will inaugurate the Indian Pavilion. Three Indian
feature films and a short documentary film have been selected for screening in the global event.
4. Which state government has recently launched a scheme named ‘Nadu-Nedu’, for modernising hospitals?
[A] Telangana
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Karnataka
[D] Tamil Nadu
Answer: Andhra Pradesh
The Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy recently launched a scheme named

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‘Nadu-Nedu’, for modernising hospitals.
Under the scheme, all the government hospitals of the state are to be modernised in three years, with the
government assistance of Rs.15337 Crores. The hospitals are to be made on par with the highest
standard of the country, Indian Public Health Standards (IPHS).
5. Which country is set to host the men’s edition of the junior hockey World Cup 2021?
[A] India
[B] Argentina
[C] France
[D] Brazil
Answer: India
International Hockey Federation (FIH) recently announced that India will host the men’s edition of the
junior hockey World Cup 2021.
The women’s junior World Cup event will be held in Potchefstroom in South Africa. This is the first time
the African continent is organising the apex sports event. The Continental qualifier matches are
scheduled throughout this year and the World cup would be held at the end of 2021.
6. Chief Minister Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (CMAPS) and the Yuva Udyamita Vikas Abhiyan (YUVA)
are the schemes of which state government?
[A] Odisha
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Punjab
Answer: Uttar Pradesh
The Uttar Pradesh government on Tuesday announced two new schemes during its budget presentation.
Under the proposed ‘Chief Minister Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (CMAPS)’, youth of the state in
MSME units are to given on-job training and employment. A stipend is also to be provided.
Yuva Udyamita Vikas Abhiyan (YUVA) hubs are to be set up, to train two lakh youths under various
training programmes of the UP Skill Development Mission. A provision of Rs.100 Cr and Rs.50 Cr are
allocated for the schemes respectively.
7. Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA), was renamed after which former Union Minister?
[A] Arun Jaitley
[B] Sushma Swaraj
[C] Manohar Parikkar
[D] George Fernandes
Answer: Manohar Parikkar
The New Delhi-based government think tank, Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses (IDSA) was
renamed as Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, to honour the late Defence
Minister of India. The Padma Bhushan awardee, who served as the Defence Minister from 2014 to 2017,
passed away last year.
The erstwhile IDSA is a think tank for research in international relations and Security issues. It also
houses a training academy for civilian and military officers of the government.
8. As per the ‘State of India’s Birds Report 2020’, which bird species showed a big increase in population?
[A] Indian peafowl
[B] Great Indian Bustard
[C] Common Ostrich

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[D] Turkey
Answer: Indian peafowl
The ‘State of India’s Birds Report 2020’ was recently released during the 13th Conference of Parties to
the Convention on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (CMS COP 13).
As per the report, 79 per cent of Indian species of birds declined in population while the number of
Indian pea fowls has significantly increased. The number of house sparrows remained almost stable
across the country. The report classified 101 species in the ‘high conservation’ category.
9. What is the name of the exhibition, organised by the Ministry of Textiles, for promoting Geographical
Indication (GI) crafts?
[A] Shilp Mela
[B] Kala Mela
[C] Shilp Kumbh
[D] Kala Kumbh
Answer: Kala Kumbh
The Ministry of Textiles is organising a Handicraft thematic Exhibition exhibition named ‘Kala Kumbh’,
for promoting Geographical Indication (GI) crafts, through the Office of Development Commissioner
(Handicrafts).
Recently the Kala Kumbh exhibition was inaugurated at Bengaluru and Mumbai. It is also proposed to be
held at other major Indian cities including Kolkata and Chennai next month. Export Promotion Council
for Handicrafts (EPCH) will sponsor the thematic exhibitions. As on August 2019, 178 GI handicraft
products have been registered from across the country.
10. Kishori Ballal, who recently passed away, was a veteran actor of which language?
[A] Telugu
[B] Kannada
[C] Odia
[D] Punjabi
Answer: Kannada
Veteran Kannada actor Kishori Ballal recently passed away at the age of 82. She was known for starring
with Shah Rukh Khan in his movie -Swades as ‘Kaveri Amma’.
She made her acting debut during 1960 in the movie ‘Ivalentha Hendathi’ and has acted in more than 75
movies of different Indian languages. The artist had been acting for more than 50 years and starred in
several Bollywood films too.
Quiz:21-Feb-20
1. What is the corpus of the dedicated fund raised from the fines charged from the defaulting pesticides
companies and contributions from the Central and state governments under the Pesticides Management
Bill, 2020?
[A] Rs. 20,000 Crore
[B] Rs. 40,000 Crore
[C] Rs. 50,000 Crore
[D] Rs. 100,000 Crore
Answer: Rs. 50,000 Crore
Bill moots setting up a dedicated fund of Rs 50,000 crore, raised from the fines charged from the
defaulting pesticides companies and contributions from the Central and state governments.
2. Which all three items are not under GST as of February 2020?

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[A] Fuel, Construction, Alcohol
[B] Fuel, Movie Tickets, Alcohol
[C] Fuel, Tobacco, Alcohol
[D] Fuel, Dairy Products, Tobacco
Answer: Fuel, Construction, Alcohol
As of now, fuel, construction, alcohol are out of GST. GST on movie tickets is based on slabs, with 18%
GST for tickets that cost less than Rs. 100 and 28% GST on tickets costing more than Rs.100. The rate
on under- construction property booking is 12%. Some industries and products were exempted by the
government and remain untaxed under GST, such as dairy products, products of milling industries, fresh
vegetables & fruits, meat products, and other groceries and necessities.
3. Under the GST regime, E-Way bill is mandatory of the value of inter-state movement of goods is more
than __?
[A] Rs. 50,000
[B] Rs. 100,000
[C] Rs. 200,000
[D] Rs. 250,000
Answer: Rs. 50,000
An e-Way Bill is an electronic permit for shipping goods any another similar to a waybill. It was made
compulsory for inter-state transport of goods from 1 June 2018. It is required to be generated for every
inter-state movement of goods beyond 10 kilometers and the threshold limit of ₹50,000.
4. What is the highest income tax rate slab in India after Budget 2020-21?
[A] 25%
[B] 30%
[C] 35%
[D] 40%
Answer: 30%
Highest income tax rate is 30% for income above 15,00,000.
5. A paramilitary Sufi group called Ahlu Sunna Waljama, which is recently in news, is fighting with radical
islamist group in Civil War of which country?
[A] Sudan
[B] Somalia
[C] Syria
[D] South Sudan
Answer: Somalia
Ahlu Sunna Waljama’a is a Sufi paramilitary group of Somalia. It is formed by moderates who are
opposed to radical islamist Al-Shabaab group. The civil war in Somalia is basically the fight between
these two groups.
6. The term “Operation Car Wash” that was making news recently, is related to which country?
[A] Argentina
[B] Brazil
[C] South Africa
[D] Russia
Answer: Brazil
Operation Car Wash is the name of a criminal and corruption scandal investigation in Brazil.

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7. Recently, Ashraf Ghani was re-elected in the Afghanistan Presidential elections. What is the name of
political party of Ashraf Ghani?
[A] National Coalition of Afghanistan
[B] National Congress Party of Afghanistan
[C] Hezb-e Islami Gulbuddin
[D] None
Answer: None
Ashraf Ghani is an independent politician. The recent elections were held in September, 2019 and their
result was declared in February, 2020. As per results, Ghani was re-elected with 50.64% of the vote.
8. The term “Key Starting Material (KSM)”, recently in news, is related to which industry?
[A] Textile Industry
[B] Pharmaceutical Industry
[C] Cement Industry
[D] Paper Industry
Answer: Pharmaceutical Industry
Key Starting Material (KSM) term is used for intermediates in pharmaceutical industry. These are
building blocks of drug industry. India imports KSM for many medicines from China and due to
Coronavirus fears, the drug industry of the country is facing recession concerns.
9. The Far East Development Fund, which recently submitted an expression of interest (EoI) for the
beleaguered Jet Airways, is based in which country?
[A] France
[B] England
[C] Russia
[D] Germany
Answer: Russia
The Far East Development Fund was established by the Russian government for infrastructure financing.
It facilitates investments in the Far East and Baikal regions, providing preferential and long-term
financing for prioritized investment projects across industries such as infrastructure, upstream and
downstream production of minerals, small and medium enterprises and agriculture. It has reportedly
shown interest to bid for Jet Airways (India) Ltd.
10. Which Supranational union has recently proposed a “framework for trustworthy artificial intelligence”?
[A] Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN)
[B] European Union
[C] Arab League
[D] Gulf Cooperation Council
Answer: European Union
The EU is pursuing a digital strategy and develop a “framework for trustworthy artificial intelligence”,
focusing on three key objectives: (1) Technology that works for people; (2) A fair and competitive
economy; and (3) An open, democratic and sustainable society.
Quiz:22-Feb-20
1. The “Pandemic Bonds” are issued by which multilateral development bank?
[A] World Bank
[B] Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
[C] European Investment Bank

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[D] Asian Development Bank
Answer: World Bank
Pandemic Bonds were launched by World Bank under its Pandemic Emergency Financing umbrella in
2017 in response to the 2013 to 2016 Ebola outbreak in Sierra Leone, Guinea and Liberia. However, their
efficacy has always been under fire. The bonds issued by the World Bank’s International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development (IBRD), offer investors high coupons in return for the risk of having to
forgo some or all their money in the event of pandemic outbreaks of a number of infectious diseases.
2. The Shanidar Cave, a hotspot for Neanderthal remains, is located in which country?
[A] Syria
[B] Iraq
[C] Tajikistan
[D] Egypt
Answer: Iraq
Shanidar Cave is located in the Kurdistan Region in Iraq in Zagros Mountains. Shanidar Cave was
excavated in the 1950s, when archaeologist Ralph Solecki uncovered partial remains of ten Neanderthal
men, women and children. Some were clustered together, with clumps of ancient pollen surrounding one
of the skeletons. Solecki claimed this showed Neanderthals buried their dead and conducted funerary
rites with flowers. The ‘flower burial’ captured the public imagination, and prompted a reappraisal of a
species that — prior to Shanidar Cave — was thought to have been dumb and animalistic.
3. Which country is supplier of majority of mined Cobalt, which is used in cathodes for lithium-ion batteries
used in cell phones and Electric vehicles?
[A] China
[B] Kazhakiistan
[C] Sudan
[D] Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Answer: Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
Cobalt is a critical element for not only cell phones but also electric vehicles that might be good for the
environment. Roughly 60% of mined cobalt is sourced from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC). Its
continued availability is becoming an issue due to political environment of DRC.
4. What is the current (2020) number of telecom companies in India?
[A] 10
[B] 8
[C] 6
[D] 4
Answer: 4
Telecom companies in India have reduced from nine in 2016 to four in 2020, including Bharat Sanchar
Nigam Limited (BSNL), the government-owned telecom company. This has happened even as
consumption of mobile services rose 88% from 366 minutes per user per month to 691 while data
consumption grew from less than 0.5 gigabytes (GB) to nearly 11 GB between 2016 and 2019, according
to data from the Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI).
5. Which country is world’s biggest palm oil importer?
[A] India
[B] China
[C] Russia

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[D] Saudi Arabia
Answer: India
As of 2020, India is largest importer of Palm Oil. India imported 9.4 million tonnes of palm oil in the
marketing year that ended on October 31, including 2.72 million tonnes of refined palm oil. Palm oil
makes up nearly two-thirds of India’s total imports of edible oil. It buys palm oil mainly from Indonesia
and Malaysia, which are the world’s top and second biggest producer of the commodity respectively.
6. Currently, which Economic Census is underway in India?
[A] 5th
[B] 6th
[C] 7th
[D] 8th
Answer: 7th
7th Economic Census is being brought out by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme
Implementation’s Central Statistics Office (Economic Statistics Division). A nationwide Business
Register as per international practices adopted by developing countries and in line with UNSD
recommendations. It will provide detailed information on economic variables, activity wise, of all the non
agricultural establishments of the country including its distribution at all India, State, district,
village/ward levels for comprehensive analysis of the structure of the economy.
7. As per the National Population Register (NPR), a person is “usual resident” who has resided in a local
area for past how many months / years?
[A] 6 months
[B] 1 year
[C] 18 months
[D] 2 years
Answer: 6 months
National Population Register (NPR) is a list of “usual residents” of the country, defined as a person who
has resided in a local area for the past six months or more or a person who intends to reside in that area
for the next six months or more. It is a register having both biometric and demographic details of every
resident in India from village to district to state to the national level.
8. Who heads the 12-member “Technology Group” to advise ministries, departments and public sector
undertakings (PSUs) on technology implementation?
[A] Dr. R Chidamabaram
[B] Rishikesh Narayanan
[C] Dr K Vijay Raghavan
[D] Bhaskar Saha
Answer: Dr K Vijay Raghavan
The Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, recently gave its nod for the constitution of
a 12-member “Technology Group” to advise ministries, departments and public sector undertakings
(PSUs) on technology implementation. The committee will be headed by Dr K Vijay Raghavan, principal
scientific advisor to PM Modi.
9. Which country has highest rate of hepatitis C in the world and is expected to eradicate the disease in
2020?
[A] Saudi Arabia
[B] China

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[C] India
[D] Egypt
Answer: Egypt
Egypt has 15-20% prevalence of HCV. The country is expected to eradicate the disease by 2020 after an
ambitious nationwide campaign against the disease.
10. The cabinet of which state in India has cleared a bill to enact the “Time-Bound Clearance Act” which
shall ensure time-bound clearance of industrial licenses for investment projects?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Haryana
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh Cabinet has cleared a draft bill to enact Madhya Pradesh Time-Bound Clearance Act.
This act will ensure time-bound clearance of industrial licenses for investment projects. It envisages
that around 40 clearances and permissions pertaining to almost 10 state departments will have to be
delivered within a fixed timeframe.
Quiz:February 23-24, 2020
1. What is the rank of India in the ‘Global Flourishing index’ released by WHO Commission and UNICEF?
[A] 91
[B] 111
[C] 121
[D] 131
Answer: 131
A report titled ‘A Future for the World’s Children’ was recently released by a World Health Organization
(WHO) Commission, UNICEF and the Lancet journal.
The report included a new ‘Global Flourishing index’, which compares the countries in measures of child
survival and well-being. Out of the total of 180 countries assessed, India is placed at 131st rank in
flourishing index and 77th rank in sustainability index.
2. Project Tej, which was in news recently, was launched by which Indian state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Odisha
[C] Telangana
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Answer: Telangana
The Government of Telangana have launched Project Tej, in association with a platform
MedTechConnect,during the BioAsia 2020-Biotech and Life Sciences forum of the state. The Project
aims at creating a platform to help entrepreneurs test their ideas in medical technology field.
The state’s Research and Innovation Circle of Hyderabad (RICH) and MedTechConnect signed a MoU in
this regard. MedTechConnect platform was established by the engineering and Tech Company Cyient
and Xynteo’s business alliance called ‘India2022 Coalition’.
3. As per the annual ‘Nature Ranking Index-2020”, which Indian institution is ranked in the first place in the
country?
[A] Indian Institute of Science (IISc)
[B] Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

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[C] Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR-Mumbai)
[D] Homi Bhabha National Institute (HBNI)
Answer: Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)
As per the ‘Nature Ranking Index-2020’, which is based on total research output of institutions, the
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) has been ranked in the first place in the country.
Based on the researches carried out from December 2018 to November 2019, the ranks are devised.
Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bangalore, has been ranked second in the index, followed by Tata
Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR-Mumbai).
4. In which year, Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh were granted Indian statehood?
[A] 1972
[B] 1977
[C] 1982
[D] 1987
Answer: 1987
The two north-eastern states Mizoram and Arunachal Pradesh on Wednesday observed their Statehood
Day on February 20.
On the same day in the year 1987, the two states were granted Indian statehood. Mizoram was a part of
the state Assam until 1972, the year in which it was made a separate Union Territory. Subsequently, it
became the 23rd state of India on February 20, 1987. The North East Frontier Agency was named
Arunachal Pradesh and made a union territory in 1972, and then made a state in 1987.
5. What does CCPA stand for, in the context of Consumer Protection Act 2019?
[A] Common Consumer Protection Agency
[B] Central Consumer Protection Authority
[C] Company- Consumer Protection Authority
[D] Centralised Consumer Protection Affairs
Answer: Central Consumer Protection Authority
Food and Consumer Affairs Minister Ram Vilas Paswan has recently announced that the Central
Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) will be created to implement the Consumer Protection Act 2019.
The Authority will be established by the first week of April this year. The Minister also announced that an
investigative wing will be formed, which fill function under the authority to carry out inquiries related to
unfair trade practices and deceptive advertisements. The Parliament approved ‘The Consumer
Protection Bill 2019’, which replaced the Consumer Protection Act, 1986, last year.
6. Who was named as the Ernst and Young (EY) Entrepreneur of the Year 2019?
[A] Adi Godrej
[B] Uday Kotak
[C] Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
[D] Sridhar Vembu
Answer: Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw
The 21st edition of the Ernst and Young (EY) awards for the year 2019 was presented recently. The
Founder and CMD of India’s leading Biopharmaceutical firm-Biocon, Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw was named
as the EY Entrepreneur of the Year 2019. She is set to represent India at the EY World Entrepreneur of
the Year Award (WEOY) in Monte Carlo, to be held in June.
Godrej Group Chairman Adi Godrej was conferred the Lifetime Achievement Award while Tuhin Parikh of
Blackstone India, was the first recipient of the ‘Transformational Impact Person of the Year’ award.

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7. Which city was host to the ‘Symposium on Emerging Opportunities for Indian Textiles and Crafts’?
[A] Varanasi
[B] Lucknow
[C] New Delhi
[D] Hyderabad
Answer: New Delhi
The Symposium on Emerging Opportunities for Indian Textiles and Crafts was recently organised in New
Delhi. The symposium was inaugurated by Union Minister of Textiles and Women and Child
Development, Smriti Zubin Irani.
The national symposium was attended by officials from the Ministry of Commerce & Industry and
Ministry of Textiles and representatives of Export Promotion Council.
8. Which Indian sportsperson won the ESPN’s Female Sportsperson of the Year award for the third
consecutive year?
[A] Mary Kom
[B] P V Sindhu
[C] Saina Nehwal
[D] Sania Mirza
Answer: P V Sindhu
India’s ace shuttler and World champion P V Sindhu won the ESPN’s Female Sportsperson of the Year
award for a third consecutive time. Sindhu’s World Championship victory has also been selected as the
Moment of the Year. Chief National Badminton Coach Pullela Gopichand was selected as the Coach of
the Year.
Top-rated shooter Saurabh Chaudhary bagged the ESPN’s Male Sportsperson of the Year award while
Manu Bhaker-Saurabh Chaudhary duo grabbed the Team of the Year honour.
9. Which portal of Indian Railways has won the Silver in National e-Governance Award for excellence in
providing citizen-centric delivery?
[A] Where is my Train
[B] Rail Suvidha
[C] Rail Madad
[D] Rail Saarthi
Answer: Rail Madad
RailMadad, the grievance redressal portal of Indian Railways, has won the National e-Governance Award
for excellence in providing citizen-centric delivery. The new unified portal of Indian Railways, used for
grievance, inquiry, and assistance, was awarded Silver under Category II of National e-Governance
Awards.
The National e-Governance Awards are presented by the Department of Administrative Reforms and
Public Grievances (DARPG) annually, to promote e-Governance initiatives.
10. Which city was host to NITI Aayog’s ‘Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Conclave 2020’?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Guwahati
[C] Kolkata
[D] Shillong
Answer: Guwahati
NITI Aayog recently organised ‘Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Conclave 2020: Partnerships,

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Cooperation and Development of North Eastern States’ in Guwahati, Assam.
The conclave was organised in association with the North Eastern Council, Government of Assam, Tata
Trust, United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and Research and Information System for
Developing Countries (RIS). The three-day event commenced from February 24th in Guwahati
Quiz:25-Feb-20
1. Vellbergia bartholomaei , which was seen in news recently, belongs to which species?
[A] Frog
[B] Lizard
[C] Spider
[D] Snake
Answer: Lizard
According to the recent research done by the researchers of Harvard University, a new prehistoric reptile
species was discovered, which was claimed to be an ancestor to modern-day lizards and snakes.
The ancient lizard is called as ‘Vellbergia bartholomaei’ and this discovery is expected to reveal several
details about the revolution of four-legged creatures.
2. Leo Varadkar, who recently tendered his resignation, was the Prime Minister of which country?
[A] France
[B] Ireland
[C] The Netherlands
[D] Greece
Answer: Ireland
The Prime Minister of Ireland Leo Varadkar recently tendered his resignation as Taoiseach, which means
Prime minister in the country.
Though he submitted his resignation to the Irish President Michael Higgins, he continued to stay on as
interim leader. As per the country’s constitution, the Taoiseach and the government will continue to
carry on their duties until successors are appointed.
3. Which state Government has ordered destruction of breeding centres of Thai Mangur fish?
[A] Odisha
[B] West Bengal
[C] Assam
[D] Maharashtra
Answer: Maharashtra
The Thai Mangur fish, which has a similar appearance like fresh water Mangur, is cultivated in highly
unhygienic conditions in the state and it causes sickness to people on consumption.
Hence, the Maharashtra government has launched a special drive to destroy the cultivation centres of
the exotic Thai Mangur fish. The Head of the state fisheries department has ordered a ban on sale of the
fish. The National Green Tribunal had earlier banned the sale of the fish species in 2000.
4. Atal Kisan – Majdoor canteens’ scheme is associated with which state?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Haryana
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] Madhya Pradesh
Answer: Haryana
The Governor of Haryana, during the budget session of the State Assembly, announced that the Haryana

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government will open Atal Kisan – Majdoor canteens in all markets and sugar mills across the state.
The canteens are to be set up to provide affordable meals to farmers and labourers at 10 rupees per
plate. Nearly 25 such canteens are to be established across the state.
5. Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission is implemented by which Union Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare
[B] Ministry of Rural Development
[C] Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs
[D] Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions
Answer: Ministry of Rural Development
The fourth Anniversary of the launch of Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission (SPMRM) was
observed on 21st February. In 2016, Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Mission under the
Ministry of Rural Development, on the same date.
Under the mission, well planned Rurban clusters are created to stimulate local economic development
and thereby creating an inclusive rural development.
6. ‘Viewpoints’, which was recently in news, is an application of which major technological company?
[A] Google
[B] Amazon
[C] Facebook
[D] Apple
Answer: Facebook
‘Viewpoints’ is a market research application of the tech-major Facebook. It asks user to participate in
surveys, tasks and product-testing and reward them for the same.
It was in news recently as the company announced that it would financially reward the select group of
users, who agree to record their voice to improvise the firm’s speech-recognition technology. The users
will have to record the audio using a new programme called ‘Pronunciations’ in the application.
7. Which state/UT was host to the ‘National Organic Food Festival’, held recently?
[A] Lakshadweep
[B] Assam
[C] Maharashtra
[D] New Delhi
Answer: New Delhi
The National Organic Food Festival was recently inaugurated in New Delhi by the Union Food Processing
Industries Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal and Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani.
‘Unleashing India’s Organic Market Potential’ is the theme of the festival. Hundreds of woman
entrepreneurs and different self-help groups (SHGs) from across the nation exhibit their organic
products in the three-day festival.
8. India is set to provide grant to which country for up-gradation of plantation schools, for Indian-origin
estate workers?
[A] Bangladesh
[B] Sri Lanka
[C] Nepal
[D] Laos
Answer: Sri Lanka
India and Sri Lanka have recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) for up-gradation of

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infrastructure in plantation schools for estate workers of Indian origin.
The MoU was signed in Colombo, under which infrastructure of 9 plantation schools are to be up-graded
with the assistance of 30 crore rupees from India. Construction and renovation of several school
buildings is also being carried out with Indian grant.
9. ‘Thal Sena Bhawan’, which was seen in news recently, is to be built in which state/ UT?
[A] Ladakh
[B] Jammu and Kashmir
[C] Chandigarh
[D] New Delhi
Answer: New Delhi
India’s new Army Headquarters is christened as ‘Thal Sena Bhawan’. Recently, the Defence Minister laid
foundation stone of the new Headquarters at Delhi Cantonment.
The new Army headquarters is to be constructed spanning around an area of 39 acres. The newly
created Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) office will also be set up in the building. The multi-storeyed
building is scheduled to be constructed in five years and will have all the offices of Army in the complex.
10. India’s first floating jetty has been inaugurated in which state/UT?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Goa
[C] Mumbai
[D] Gujarat
Answer: Goa
India’s first floating jetty has been inaugurated in Panaji, Goa on the banks of Mandovi River. The jetty is
located in the premises of the state port department.
The jetty, which is made of cement concrete, can be built in a short time. Union Minister of State for
Shipping Mansukh Mandaviya inaugurated the jetty as well as the immigration facility at a cruise
terminal in Mormugao Port.
Quiz:26-Feb-20
1. As of February, 2020, which country is India’s top trade partner?
[A] China
[B] United States
[C] Russia
[D] France
Answer: United States
United States has surpassed China to become India’s top trading partner. According to the Commerce
Ministry data, the bilateral trade between the US and India stood at nearly 88 billion dollars in 2018-19
fiscal. During the period, India’s trade with China was at 87.1 billion dollars. Similarly, during April-
December 2019-20, the bilateral trade between the US and India stood at 68 billion dollars against a
nearly 65 billion dollars trade with China in the same period. America is one of the few countries with
which India has a trade surplus. On the other hand, India has a huge trade deficit with China. In 2018-19,
India has a trade surplus of 16.9 billion dollars with America, while it has a deficit of 53.6 billion dollars
with the neighboring country. The data showed that China was India’s top trading partner since 2013-14
till 2017-18.
2. What was overall rank of India in the Asian Wrestling Championships, 2020 held in New Delhi?
[A] Second

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[B] Third
[C] Fourth
[D] Fifth
Answer: Third
The Asian Wrestling Championships, 2020 was held at the KD Jadhav Indoor Stadium, Indira Gandhi
Arena, New Delhi from February 18 to February 23. China was barred from entering into the competition
due to the 2019–20 coronavirus outbreak. The top four countries in the series were Japan, Iran, India
and Kazakhstan. Japan won 8 Gold and total 16 medals. India won 5 Gold medals while total medal tally
was at 20.
3. Which city has recently hosted International Judicial Conference?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Bhopal
[C] Mumbai
[D] Chandigarh
Answer: New Delhi
The two-day International Judicial Conference, 2020 was held at Supreme Court auditorium, New Delhi.
The theme of the conference was ‘Judiciary and the Changing World.’
4. What is the upper land-holding limit to become eligible for financial support under PM-KISAN scheme?
[A] 1 Hectare
[B] 2 Hectare
[C] 3 Hectare
[D] No limit
Answer: No limit
PM-KISAN scheme launched on 24th February 2019. The schemes provides income support to all
landholding farmers’ families across the country and enable them to meet expenses related to
agriculture as well as domestic needs. Under the Scheme, six thousand rupees per year is transferred in
installments directly into the bank accounts of the farmers. The scheme initially provided income
support to all small and marginal farmers’ families across the country, holding cultivable land up to two
hectares. However, its ambit was later expanded to cover all farmer families in the country irrespective
of the size of their landholdings.
5. The recently set up Sanjiv Puri Expert Group is looking into which domain?
[A] Unorganized Sector
[B] Farm Exports
[C] Manufacturing Industries
[D] Service Sector
Answer: Farm Exports
The 15th Finance Commission has established a high level expert group for looking into agricultural
exports. The committee is to be headed by ITC Chairman and is to submit its report in 3 months. The
Sanjiv Puri Expert Group was set up to look into ways of improving agriculture exports. To encourage
exports, the panel is to come up with measurable performance incentives for states, look at import
substitution opportunities, increase farm productivity, value addition, waste reduction, improve logistics
infrastructure etc.
6. The recently discovered C. gretathunbergae is a species of__?
[A] Fish

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[B] Snake
[C] Snail
[D] Frog
Answer: Snail
Scientists in Netherlands have named a new species of land snail discovered in Brunei after Swedish
climate activist Greta Thunberg. Craspedotropis gretathunbergae is a newly discovered species of land
snail. It was named in honour of the Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg. The snail is noted for
being sensitive to droughts, forest degradation and temperature extremes. It belongs to a group of
snails called Caenogastropods.
7. Which state has recently ordered the destruction of ‘Thai Magur’ fish breeding centers?
[A] Gujarat
[B] Goa
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Maharashtra
Answer: Maharashtra
The Maharashtra government recently ordered the destruction of ‘Thai Magur’ fish breeding centres
because of the threat posed to native fishes and the unhygienic conditions. Thai Magur is a type of
catfish. It is also known as the exotic African Catfish. The fish species is known to survive in even poor
conditions like wet mud and sludge. It is also reported to be unhealthy for human consumption. Thai
Magur is not a native species of India. It is an invasive species from Africa. It is carnivorous and known
for feeding on native fish species and decimating their populations. Studies reported that 70% of drop in
native fish species’ population is because of these Magurs. The National Green Tribunal had banned the
farming of Thai Magur in 2000. The central government had banned the transportation, breeding and
sale of the invasive species the same year. However, the species continue to be cultivated for their
adaptability, taste and high growth rates.
8. NRI Sabha, which was recently making news, is an NGO controlled by which state government?
[A] Rajasthan
[B] Haryana
[C] Punjab
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Answer: Punjab
After a lag of 5 years, the elections to the post of president of NRI Sabha Punjab is to be held. Only
members of the NRI Sabha can vote in the election of the president. The NRI Sabha is an NGO controlled
by the Punjab government. Any NRI can become its member by paying a fee of 10,500 INR. The body has
about 23,000 members across the world. Only the members of the NRI Sabha have a right to contest in
the elections. Participation in the voting is also reserved for the members. The upcoming elections have
been due since 2017. The NRI Sabha was registered under the Societies Act in 1998. The president of
the NRI Sabha does not have any legal authority. The office bearers of the Sabha also do not have legal
authority. Their function is to take up issues concerning NRIs with ambassadors of different countries.
They can also push for speeding up government works concerning NRIs.
9. The term “JavaScript sniffers”, that was making news recently, is associated with__?
[A] Authorization Software
[B] Malware
[C] Encryption Software

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[D] Firewall
Answer: Malware
A Singapore based cybersecurity firm reported that 98% of credit card data being sold on the dark web
are of Indian customers and highlighted the use of JS sniffers. JS sniffers or JavaScript sniffers are
specialized malwares that are used by cybercriminals for stealing sensitive credit card information. A
recent report by Singapore based Group IB highlighted the growing use of these softwares by
cybercriminals. The stolen information is then being sold on the dark web.
10. What is Ethnologue, that was recently making news?
[A] Database of Languages
[B] Database of Heritage Buildings
[C] Database of local customs
[D] Database of Tribes
Answer: Database of Languages
The 23rd edition of the Ethnologue- the world’s largest language database was released in light of the
International Mother Language Day, celebrated on February 21st. ‘Ethnologue: Languages of the World’
is an annual publication that serves as the largest database on the languages of the world. The 23rd
edition was recently published in light of the International Mother Language Day celebration. It is mainly
used by linguists for research and also by students. Ethnologue is published by a non-profit
organization, SIL International which is based in the USA. It is being published since 1951. The main
objective of the publication is to document the world languages and promote literacy. The introduction
of hard paywall has affected the use by researchers according to reports.
Quiz:27-Feb-20
1. The Consumer Protection Act 2019, which is to come into force from April, 2020, makes provisions
related to “class action suits”. This suit can be invoked to__?
[A] Sue many producers of same product
[B] Recall an entire batch of faulty products
[C] Sue entire management team of the producers of faulty products
[D] Claim damages for an entire group of consumers of faulty product
Answer: Recall an entire batch of faulty products
In April, 2020, consumers in India will be able to initiate class-action lawsuits and also opt for mediation
under the new Consumer Protection Act 2019, which gives legal teeth to claims for damages over
defective products or poor services. A class action suit is a legal tool that enables an individual
complaint of a faulty product/service to be treated as an ‘interest group’ of other people in similar
circumstances. The suit can be invoked to recall an entire batch of faulty products based on one
complaint. If one lot of an item has a common defect, a single complaint can trigger its recall through
‘class action’.
2. After initially dropping shooting and archery from Commonwealth Games, 2022, it has been recently
decided that these two sports will be included and will be organized and funded in India as a part of
Birmingham Commonwealth Games, 2022. What is the venue of these two sports in India?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Chandigarh
[C] Bengaluru
[D] Hyderabad
Answer: Chandigarh

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India had threatened to boycott the Games after shooting and archery were initially dropped. However,
final approval was recently given by the Commonwealth Games Federation (CGF) to include these
sports. The Commonwealth archery and shooting championships will be held in Chandigarh in January
2022. Medals won will be added to the final tally of participating nations at the Birmingham
Commonwealth Games to be held from July 27 to August 7 that year.
3. In which city, India’s Central Vista project, that was recently in news, is coming up?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Mumbai
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Bengaluru
Answer: New Delhi
Central Vista is an ambitious plan that includes setting up of a new Parliament building, bringing all
central ministries closer, and redeveloping the existing heritage structures in and around the central
vista. Under the project, eight new government office buildings, a new Parliament House and a
residential complex near the South Block that could house the homes of the Prime Minister and the Vice-
President are among the projects that may come.
4. Which of the following African countries has been recently listed in the FATF’s grey list?
[A] Gabon
[B] Algeria
[C] Kenya
[D] Mauritius
Answer: Mauritius
Mauritius, long considered a tax haven, has been listed in the FATF’s grey list. This has raised questions
about the fate of FPI from Mauritius in India.
5. Who heads the IRDAI committee looking into issue of indemnity based health insurance products for life
insurance companies?
[A] D Rajkumar
[B] Pravin Kumar Purwar
[C] Pradosh Kumar Rath
[D] MR Kumar
Answer: MR Kumar
The insurance regulator IRDAI has set up a committee to examine whether life insurers can offer
indemnity based health policies. IRDAI has now set up a nine-member committee led by MR Kumar,
Chairman, Life Insurance Corporation of India to look into the issue.
6. For the first time, which of the following supranational banks has listed Masala Bonds in the Global
Securities Market?
[A] World Bank
[B] Asian Development Bank
[C] Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
[D] African Development Bank
Answer: Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
In a first, supranational institution Asian Development Bank, has listed its 10-year ₹-850 crore Masala
bond on the Global Securities Market (GSM) of the India International Exchange at GIFT City. Asian
Development Bank’s Masala bonds are dual listed at both Luxembourg and India INX.

|
7. What is the current number of members in the BIMSTEC grouping?
[A] 5
[B] 6
[C] 7
[D] 8
Answer: 7
BIMSTEC is a regional grouping with seven countries from South and Southeast Asia including
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka and Myanmar. It aims to promote regional
cooperation for rapid economic development.
8. In which year, the MoU to establish the ‘BIMSTEC grid interconnection’ was signed between the members
of BIMSTEC countries?
[A] 2016
[B] 2017
[C] 2018
[D] 2019
Answer: 2018
Recently, BIMSTEC and South Asia Regional Initiative for Energy Integration jointly organized the
conference titled ‘Increase Cooperation in the Energy Sector in BIMSTEC Region.’ The BIMSTEC
members are planning for a 3000 km BIMSTEC power grid called BIMSTEC grid interconnection. The
MoU was signed in 2018.
9. The proposed Santusht app is for the beneficiaries of which scheme?
[A] National Saving Certificates Scheme
[B] Employees State Insurance (ESI) scheme
[C] PMKISAN
[D] None of them
Answer: Employees State Insurance (ESI) scheme
Labour Ministry will soon launch a mobile app ‘Santusht’ with an aim to address issues of beneficiaries
of Employees State Insurance (ESI) scheme. The minister informed about bringing ‘Santusht’ mobile app
for the benefit of ESI beneficiaries very soon at Employees State Insurance Corporation (ESIC)
foundation day celebration function in the capital on Monday, a labour ministry statement said.
10. Antihydrogen, which was recently in news, is composed of __?
[A] Positron and proton
[B] Nuetron and proton
[C] Positron and Antiproton
[D] Neutrino and Neutron
Answer: Positron and Antiproton
Antihydrogen is the antimatter counterpart of hydrogen. Whereas the common hydrogen atom is
composed of an electron and proton, the antihydrogen atom is made up of a positron and antiproton.
Quiz:28-Feb-20
1. As of 2020, the largest cricket stadium of the world is located in which country?
[A] Australia
[B] India
[C] South Africa
[D] New Zealand

|
Answer: India
Sardar Patel Stadium located in Ahmedabad (Gujarat) also called as the Motera Stadium is the largest
cricket stadium of the world and the second largest stadium in the World, after the Rungrado May Day
Stadium of North Korea.
The reconstruction work of the Sardar Patel Stadium started in the year 2016. US President Donald
Trump jointly addressed the ‘Namaste Trump’ event with Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the newly
renovated Stadium
2. Which country organised a training course on ‘Vessel Search Technique’ for Indian Coast Guard and
Customs personnel at Chennai?
[A] Japan
[B] Australia
[C] Oman
[D] Qatar
Answer: Australia
The Mobile Training Team of the Australian Border Force conducted the training course on ‘Vessel
Search Technique’ for the personnel of Indian Coast Guard, Customs and Coastal Security Group
members of the Tamil Nadu Police.
Indian Coast Guard organised this training course at the capital of Tamil Nadu, Chennai, along with the
Border Force of Australia.
3. Which city hosted the four-day ‘International Conference on Banana’ organised by ICAR?
[A] Gandhi Nagar
[B] Tiruchirappalli
[C] Cochin
[D] Thiruvananthapuram
Answer: Tiruchirappalli
A four-day ‘International Conference on Banana’ was recently organised by the National Research Centre
for Banana (NRCB), an institution under the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), in
association with Bioversity International, during 22-25 February, 2020.
ICAR’s National Research Centre for Banana is based at Tiruchirappali, Tamil Nadu. The Conference is
organised at Tiruchirappalli on the theme of ‘Innovations in sustainable production and value chain
management in banana’.
4. Which Indian PSU is set to acquire the government’s entire stake in THDC India and North Eastern Electric
Power Corporation Ltd (NEEPCO)?
[A] NTPC Limited
[B] Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
[C] Power Grid Corporation of India Limited
[D] NHPC Limited
Answer: NTPC Limited
The Competition Commission of India (CCI) recently permitted the Maharatna PSU NTPC Limited to
acquire the government’s entire stake in THDC India and North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Ltd
(NEEPCO).
NTPC will acquire 100 per cent of the issued and paid-up share capital of the NEEPCO and 74.5 per cent
in THDC India, the rest of which is held by Uttar Pradesh state government.
5. ‘5G Hackathon’ was recently launched by which Union Ministry/ organisation?

|
[A] NITI Aayog
[B] Ministry of Science and Technology
[C] Ministry of Communication
[D] Ministry of Human Resource and Development
Answer: Ministry of Communication
The Department of Telecommunications (DoT) of the Ministry of Communication has recently launched
‘5G Hackathon’ in association with government and industry stakeholders.
The Hackathon aims to convert new ideas into feasible 5-G products and solutions in the country. All
students, start-ups, SMEs, academic institutions and registered companies in India and even NRIs can
participate in the event.
6. Which is the only Indian company to feature in the Fortune’s ‘Top-20 Big Companies to Work For’ list in
2020?
[A] Infosys
[B] Tata Consultancy Services
[C] Zoho
[D] Zomato
Answer: Tata Consultancy Services
Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has been selected as one of the Fortune’s Best Big Companies to Work
For in the year 2020. It is also the only Indian firm to feature in the Top 20 list.
Great Place to Work, an international workplace-culture expert conducted the survey from 33,000
employees at the certified organisations across the US.
7. The two species of birds- ‘Red Throated Thrush and Plumbeous Water Redstart’ were recently found in
which state/UT?
[A] Arunachal Pradesh
[B] Uttarakhand
[C] Ladakh
[D] Lakshadweep
Answer: Ladakh
The Great Backyard Bird count exercise was recently carried out by the Wildlife Conservation and Birds
Club of Ladakh. During the exercise, two new bird species namely ‘Red Throated Thrush and Plumbeous
Water Redstart’ have been found for the first time in Ladakh Region.
Bird and wildlife experts have counted and recorded a total of 87 different species of birds in Ladakh.
8. Which city was the venue of “Microsoft Future Decoded – CEO Summit”?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Mumbai
[C] Chennai
[D] Gurugram
Answer: Mumbai
Technology- Major Microsoft hosted its “Microsoft Future Decoded – CEO Summit” in Mumbai on
February 24. The summit was attended by leaders of different fields.
The gathering was addressed by Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, during his three-day visit to India. Nadella
also attended the ‘Microsoft Future Decoded – Tech Summit’ held at Bengaluru on February 25.
9. Abhay Kumar Singh has been appointed as the Chairman & Managing Director of which Indian PSU?
[A] NTPC Limited

|
[B] Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
[C] NHPC Limited
[D] Power Grid Corporation of India Limited
Answer: NHPC Limited
Abhay Kumar Singh has been recently appointed as the Chairman & Managing Director of the Indian PSU,
NHPC Limited.
He has assumed the charge of Chairman and Managing Director of the company on February 24, 2020
and will serve till the date of his superannuation. Abhay Kumar has replaced Ratish Kumar who held
additional charge of the post of Chairman & Managing Director.
10. The First anniversary of the launch of which welfare scheme was observed on February 24?
[A] Pradhan Mantri Kisan Maan-Dhan Yojana (PM-KMY)
[B] Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
[C] Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maan-dhan (PM-SYM)
[D] Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Maan-dhan Yojana
Answer: Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)
The First anniversary of the launch of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme was
recently observed on February 24, 2020.
PM-KISAN is a Central Sector scheme with 100% funding from Government of India. Under the Scheme
an annual income support of Rs.6000 is provided to all farmer families across the country in three equal
instalments of Rs.2000.
Quiz:29-Feb-20
1. Which aircraft carrier launched freighter services to assist shrimp farmers?
[A] Alliance Air
[B] IndiGo
[C] SpiceJet
[D] Vistara
Answer: SpiceJet
Leading Indian aircraft carrier SpiceJet launched freighter services from Chennai and Vishakhapatnam
to Surat and Kolkata, to assist the transportation of shrimp seeds.
The air cargo arm of SpiceJet called SpiceXpress, will use the Boeing 737 freighter with a 21-tonne
carrying capacity will be used in the transportation. This is the first such effort in the proposed routes. In
the recent budget, a similar service called ‘Krishi Udaan’ was proposed.
2. Bob Iger, who recently tendered his resignation, was the Chief Executive Officer of which global firm for
15 years?
[A] Walt Disney Company
[B] Netflix
[C] Warner Bros
[D] Pixar
Answer: Walt Disney Company
The Chief Executive Officer of the Walt Disney Company commonly called as Disney, Bob Iger recently
tendered his resignation.
He has served as the CEO of the US-based multi-national mass-media company from 2005. Under his
leadership, the company successfully purchased Star Wars, Marvel and Fox’s entertainment businesses.
Bob Chapek is to replace Iger as the next CEO. Iger will be the executive chairman till 31 December

|
2021.
3. As of 2020, what is the Foreign Direct investment (FDI) limit, allowed in insurance intermediaries?
[A] 0%
[B] 26%
[C] 49%
[D] 100%
Answer: 100%
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recently notified that 100 per cent
FDI is allowed in insurance intermediaries under automatic approval route.
The FDI policy earlier allowed 49 per cent foreign investment in the insurance sector, including insurance
intermediaries. Intermediary services comprise of insurance brokers, re-insurance brokers, insurance
consultants, third party administrators, loss assessors etc.
4. What is the name of the new satellite, scheduled to be launched by the ISRO on March 5, 2020?
[A] GISAT-1
[B] GISAT-3
[C] GISAT-7
[D] GISAT-11
Answer: GISAT-1
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) announced that geo imaging satellite, GISAT-1 will be
launched on March 5.
The Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle (GSLV-F10) will launch the satellite from Satish Dhawan
Space Centre in Sriharikota. The 2275-kg world-class earth observation satellite GISAT-1 will be placed
in the geosynchronous transfer orbit.
5. Hosni Mubarak, who recently passed away, was the former President of which country?
[A] Greece
[B] Egypt
[C] France
[D] Libya
Answer: Egypt
The former of Egypt President Mohammed Hosni Mubarak, passed away recently at the age of 91. He
was the President of the country for nearly 30 years.
Mubarak was a former Chief of the country’s Air Force. After he became the Vice President of Egypt in
1981, he assumed power as the President after his predecessor Anwar Sadat was assassinated. After
huge protests, Mubarak was forced to step down in 2011.
6. As per the new agreement signed by the Container Corporation of India (Concor) and RZD Logistics JSC
(Russian Railways), cargos are to be transported through which country?
[A] Pakistan
[B] Afghanistan
[C] Iran
[D] Uzbekistan
Answer: Iran
Container Corporation of India (Concor) and RZD Logistics JSC (Russian Railways) recently signed a
service agreement for transporting cargo between India and Russia using a single invoice.
The containers will move between the two countries by using the International North South Transport

|
Corridor (INSTC), which passes through Iran. The corridor also passes through Azerbaijan.
7. Suella Braverman, an Indian-origin minister recently sworn in as the Attorney General of which country?
[A] United States
[B] United Kingdom
[C] New Zealand
[D] Finland
Answer: United Kingdom
Indian-origin minister Suella Braverman recently sworn in as the Attorney General of the United Kingdom.
She was appointed by the new British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, after he reshuffled his cabinet.
Suella is only the second female to be appointed in the crucial role and she is also the first female
Attorney General to be appointed by a Conservative Party government.
8. Which country is the first to develop an antibody test to identify the novel coronavirus (COVID-19)?
[A] China
[B] United States
[C] Singapore
[D] South Korea
Answer: Singapore
The Singapore Ministry of Health announced that an antibody test has been developed by the country’s
medical school and it has successfully identified two people, who were infected by the novel
coronavirus (COVID-19).
The currently used molecular test detects the viral genetic material in oral swab samples whereas the
newly developed test detects antibodies developed by the immune system when infected with the virus.
9. As per the recent ‘Hurun Global Rich List 2020’, which country has the highest number of billionaires?
[A] United States
[B] China
[C] Russia
[D] India
Answer: China
As per the recently released ‘Hurun Global Rich List 2020’, China is home to the highest number of
billionaires of the world.
The report placed Amazon founder and CEO Jeff Bezos in the top rank, who possesses wealth
amounting to $140 bn. Microsoft Founder Bill Gates is in the third spot, while Mukesh Ambani was
placed in the 9th place with $67 bn. He is the only Indian to feature in the Top-10 list and he is the
richest in Asia.
10. ‘Higher Education Leadership Development Programme for Administrator’ is a programme launched of
Union Ministry?
[A] Ministry of Corporate Affairs
[B] Ministry of Human Resource Development
[C] Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
[D] Ministry of MSME
Answer: Ministry of Human Resource Development
The Union Minister for Human Resource Development, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank recently launched
a programme called ‘Higher Education Leadership Development Programme for Administrator’.
It is a joint initiative of University Grants Commission (UGC) and British Council under the support of UK

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Current Aﬀairs [PDF] - February 16-29, 2020