Attachment March 1 To 31 2020 RBI NABARD SBI Lyst3330 PDF

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March 2020
March 1st to 7th - 2020
2020
2020
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Let us try to understand the relevance of current affairs in RBI Gr B , NABARD Gr A and NABARD Gr
B and also understand how to read this magazine.
What are the areas where current affairs-based questions are asked in RBI Gr B and NABARD Gr A
and B examinations?
• After thorough analysis of previous year papers of RBI Grade B and NABARD Gr A and B
examinations, we understand that current affairs form an important part of these examinations-
both phase 1 as well as phase 2
• For RBI Gr B examination, current affairs-based questions are asked in Phase 1 (General
Awareness – GA Section) and ESI and Finance paper of Phase 2
• For NABARD Gr A and B examinations, current affairs based questions are asked in Phase 1
(General Awareness – GA Section , Economics and Social Issues – ESI Section as well as Agriculture
and Rural Development – ARD Section) as well as Phase 2 (Economics and Social Issues – ESI
Section as well as Agriculture and Rural Development – ARD Section which is a combined paper of
100 marks)
What is the weightage of current affairs-based questions in Phase 1 and 2 of RBI Gr B and NABARD
Gr A and B examinations?
Let us look at RBI Gr B first:
Phase 1 – GA Phase 2 – ESI Phase 2 – FM

Total Marks = 80 Total Marks = 100 Total Marks = 100
Current Affairs weightage = 60- Current Affairs weightage = 80-85 Current Affairs weightage = 20-
65 Marks Marks 25 Marks
Now let us take a look at NABARD Gr A and B examination:
Phase 1 – GA Phase 1 - ESI Phase 1- ARD Phase 2 – ESI

Phase 2 – ARD Phase 2 – Paper
III (for Gr B)
Total Marks = Total Marks = Total Marks = Total Marks = Total Marks = Total Marks =
20 40 40 50 50 100
Current Current Affairs Current Current Affairs Current Current Affairs
Affairs weightage = 25- Affairs weightage = 35- Affairs weightage = 5-
weightage = 30 Marks weightage = 40 Marks weightage = 10 Marks
15-20 Marks 10-15 Marks 15-20 Marks
What is the nature of questions asked based on current affairs in these examinations?
To understand and better appreciate the nature of questions asked, this current affairs document
provided by EduTap has been divided into 3 sections namely:
1. GA in news
2. GA + ESI (Economics and Social Issues) in news
3. GA + Finance in news
Why this division?
• For the simple reason that current affairs need to be prepared in a combined manner for Phase 1
as well as Phase 2 of these examinations.
• General Awareness has been taken as the super set and all other sections – ESI, Finance and ARD
are nothing but subsets of the super set of GA when we talk about current affairs.
• Simply put, this means that all the current affairs which are important for ESI, ARD and Finance
can also be asked in GA.
Example:
Which of the following organizations has released State of Global Climate Report 2018 recently (April
2019)?
A) UNFCCC
B) BRICS
C) WMO
D) IPCC
E) None of the above
First look at this question suggests that this can be asked in the ESI section of the examinations as the
topic “Environmental issues and Sustainable Development” has been mentioned in the official
syllabus of ESI for both RBI Gr B and NABARD Gr A examinations.
But, can this question also be asked under General Awareness Section of Phase 1 of RBI Gr B and
NABARD Gr A/B? Yes!
Let us take another example.
Who among the following was the chairperson of the Committee on Currency Management
constituted by RBI in the year 2016?
A) Viral Acharya
B) Duvvuri Subbarao
C) Bimal Jalan
D) D.K. Mohanty

First look at this question suggests that this can be asked in the Finance section of the examination as
the topic “Recent Developments in the Financial Sector” has been mentioned in the official syllabus
of Finance for RBI Gr B examination.
NABARD Gr A/B? Again, Yes!
Let us take one last example:
In which of the following years was e-NAM launched?
A) 2012
B) 2013
C) 2015
D) 2016
What about this question?
First look at this question suggests that this can be asked in the Agriculture and Rural Development
(ARD) section of the examination as the topic “Agricultural Finance and Marketing” has been
mentioned in the official syllabus of ARD for NABARD Gr A/B examination.
NABARD Gr A/B? Again, Yes!
So, we have firmly established that the questions asked based on current affairs in ESI, ARD as well as
Finance can be asked in the GA section as well, didn’t we say that GA is the super set?
This also implies that there are certain areas in GA which cannot be asked in ESI, ARD or Finance.
What are those areas? Let us consider some examples:
Who among the following personalities has recently (April 2019) become the first Indian to join the
FIFA council?
A) Praful Patel
B) Sharad Pawar
C) Utpal Kumar Ganguly
D) Krishnendu Banerjee
Who has been elected as the first woman President of Slovakia recently (April 2019)?
A) Viorica Dancila

B) Zuzana Caputova
C) Kersti Kaljulaid
D) Ana Brnabic
Both these questions are such that can be asked in GA section but not in ESI, Finance or ARD. Why?
For the simple reason that these questions cannot be linked to any of the topics of ESI, ARD or
Finance as given in the official syllabus for RBI Gr B and NABARD Gr A/B examinations.
Based on this analysis, we have divided our current affairs magazine into 3 sections:
1. GA in news
2. GA + ESI (Economics and Social Issues) in news
3. GA + Finance in news
The first section – GA in news covers those news which can be asked in GA only and not in ESI or
Finance.
The second section – GA + ESI in news covers those news which can be asked in GA as well as ESI.
The third section – GA + Finance in news covers those news which can be asked in GA as well as
Finance.
How to read this document for Phase 1?
For RBI Grade B - you need to refer to first three sections of the magazine because the syllabus of
Phase 1 includes General Awareness (GA). This GA includes GA in news, GA + ESI in news and GA +
Finance in news.
For NABARD Grade A - you need to refer to first and second part of the magazine. The syllabus of the
exam includes current affairs from GA, ESI & ARD. (A separate magazine is provided for ARD)
How to read this document for Phase 2?
For RBI Grade B - you need to refer to the second and third sections of this magazine. Section first i.e
GA in news is not important for Phase 2 as in this phase such type of questions are not asked. The
section of GA + ESI in news and GA + Finance in news are important for Phase 2 with two separate
exams of ESI and FM, 100 marks each.
For NABARD Grade A – you need to refer to section second for Phase 2 of this paper. A combined
paper of ESI + ARD with 100 marks is conducted in this phase. Section first i.e GA in news is not
important here.
Note - ARD month wise magazine is separately provided by us to cover “ARD in news”
Now that we have understood how to read this magazine, let’s dive in!

Happy learning!
Contents
National news ..................................................................................................................................................... 23
1.1 Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela-2020 held ....................................................................................................... 23
1.2 New explosive detection device unveiled at NWED-2020...................................................................... 23
1.3 IAF, Savitribai Phule Pune University sign MoU to establish Chair of Excellence .................................... 23
1.4 Finance Minister Sitharaman addresses at 44th Civil Accounts Day ....................................................... 23
1.5 Minister Amit Shah inaugrated NSG Regional Hub at Kolkata ................................................................ 23
1.6 Ports review meeting held in Malappuram ........................................................................................... 23
1.7 Week Long Exhibition-cum-Fair begins in New Delhi ............................................................................. 23
1.8 Training of Nepal's judicial officers begins in India ................................................................................ 24
1.9 Arunachal Pradesh Assembly goes paperless ........................................................................................ 24
1.10 SCR launches QR Code Tickets .............................................................................................................. 24
1.11 Facebook launches multi-lingual ‘More Together’ ad campaign in India................................................ 24
1.12 Oppo launches mutual funds platform, offers SIPs from Rs 100 ............................................................ 24
1.13 Jammu civic body renames historic civic chowk .................................................................................... 24
1.14 UP: famous Rangotsav begins at Barsana in Mathura ........................................................................... 24
1.15 Nataka Academy to host Vrutti Rangabhoomi Natakotsa ...................................................................... 24
1.16 Cabinet approves MoU between India and Côte d’lvoire ...................................................................... 25
1.17 India Pharma & India Medical Device 2020 Conference held................................................................. 25
1.18 68th All India Police Athletic Championship began in Haryana .............................................................. 25
1.19 Western Railway announces bonus for every recharge to R-Wallet ...................................................... 25
1.20 Earthquakes in India at three-year high in 2019 .................................................................................... 25
1.21 PM to address Economic Times Global Business Summit ...................................................................... 25
1.22 Union HRD Minister felicitates Anju Rani, a young education activist in New Delhi ............................... 26
1.23 ICONSAT 2020 begins in Kolkata ........................................................................................................... 26
1.24 Setting Up of Port in Maharashtra ........................................................................................................ 26
1.25 Delhi govt forms task force to tackle coronavirus threat ....................................................................... 26
1.26 Google announces its plans to open Delhi Cloud Region ....................................................................... 26
1.27 Poetry Festival begins in Kolkata........................................................................................................... 26
1.28 Fourth Global Ayurveda Festival to be held at Kochi from May 16 ........................................................ 26
1.29 IWD 2020: Thinlas Chorol sets up first women's travel company in Ladakh ........................................... 27
1.30 Paytm, Hyderabad Metro tie up for QR-based tickets ........................................................................... 27
1.31 Coronavirus could cost airlines $113 billion in revenue in 2020: IATA ................................................... 27
1.32 Aurangabad Airport renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Airport ............................................... 27
1.33 Chapchar Kut festival celebration begins in Mizoram ............................................................................ 27
1.34 3 day Namaste Orchha festival begins in Madhya Pradesh .................................................................... 27
1.35 A national level Training Workshop on COVID-19 Management for all the states and hospitals is
underway in New Delhi. NDIA .......................................................................................................................... 28
1.36 Jewar airport gets international recognition ......................................................................................... 28
1.37 TCL Electronics organises helmet awareness campaign......................................................................... 28
1.38 Aircraft museum to come up at Kakinada ............................................................................................. 28
1.39 Conference on Women in Police and CAPFs held in New Delhi ............................................................. 28
1.40 Conference on Empowering Women Entrepreneurs 2020 inaugurated................................................. 29
1.41 Twitter launches special emoji ‘#EveryWoman’ to celebrate International Women’s Day ..................... 29
1.42 Railways conducts 10-day gender equality campaign ............................................................................ 29
1.43 Ranchi launches its own Community Radio Station ............................................................................... 29
1.44 Online Customer Satisfaction Survey of Delhi Metro to be held ............................................................ 29
1.45 3rd All- Women Post Office opens in New Delhi ..................................................................................... 29
1.46 Police to open ‘Hello Africa Desk’ in Bengaluru ..................................................................................... 30
1.47 International film fete held ................................................................................................................... 30
1.48 BLive organises E-bicycling tours in the Nilgiris ..................................................................................... 30
1.49 World Coffee Congress held in Bengaluru ............................................................................................. 30
1.50 Global corporate earning to drop 10% in 2020: Citigroup ..................................................................... 30
1.51 Mega Event of IDY 2020 to be Organised in Leh .................................................................................... 30
1.52 National festival Rangadhvani 2020 to be held ..................................................................................... 30
1.53 Wings India -2020 held in Hyderabad ................................................................................................... 31
1.54 National Conference on Advances in Science, Agriculture & Biotechnology .......................................... 31
1.55 NCRB celebrates 35th Inception Day ...................................................................................................... 31
1.56 National Archives of India celebrated 127th Foundation Day ................................................................. 31
1.57 Bharti Airtel network tops download speed: report .............................................................................. 31
1.58 Virus hit Iran asks IMF for aid ............................................................................................................... 31
1.59 IGI Airport ranked world’s best in over 40 MPPA category .................................................................... 31
1.60 Delhi to host Conference on Agri Logistics 2020 in March ..................................................................... 32
1.61 Assam government to construct 33 stadiums in state ........................................................................... 32
1.62 Common Eligibility Test from 2021 ....................................................................................................... 32
1.63 HIL (India) Limited launches a Customer Payment Portal ...................................................................... 32

1.64 Manipur CM announces scheme for welfare of sportspersons and artists............................................. 32
1.65 Two Odisha villages to get 'tsunami ready' tag...................................................................................... 32
1.66 CSIR announces innovation awards for school children ......................................................................... 33
1.67 Government launched Indian Culture Portal ......................................................................................... 33
1.68 Bajaj Auto unveils BS VI three wheelers ................................................................................................ 33
1.69 SIAM moves SC on deadline for BS-IV vehicles ...................................................................................... 33
1.70 No decision taken to stop printing of ₹2,000 notes ............................................................................... 33
1.71 The Hindu launches book on Swami Vivekananda................................................................................. 33
1.72 Health Ministry issues toll-free number 1075 for queries on Covid-19 .................................................. 34
1.73 India to provide 107.01 million Nepali Rupees for three new school buildings in Nepal ........................ 34
1.74 Various steps have been taken to promote Buddhist studies, art and culture in India ........................... 34
1.75 Government works towards enhancing penetration of schemes in both districts of Ladakh .................. 34
1.76 Binance and WazirX to set up $50 m blockchain for India fund ............................................................. 34
1.77 Inox signs agreement with Shell Energy India for LNG distribution ........................................................ 34
1.78 Indian Navy sets up Quarantine Facility at Visakhapatnam ................................................................... 35
1.79 LWE related incidents reduce by over 38% in 2019, in comparison to 2014 .......................................... 35
1.80 Pradhan Mantri Fast Track Project ........................................................................................................ 35
1.81 Greenco Rating System Acknowledgement........................................................................................... 35
1.82 Commission for Sub-Categorisation of OBCs ......................................................................................... 35
1.83 Ordnance Factories observe their 219th foundation day ...................................................................... 35
1.84 Entry of pilgrims in Thanjavoor temple prohibited till March 31............................................................ 36
1.85 ArcelorMittal, Nippon Steel sign $5.15 billion loan pact to refinance Essar Steel buy ............................ 36
1.86 Roche Diagnostics is India’s first private firm to get COVID-19 test approval ......................................... 36
1.87 TCS becomes most valued firm by market capitalization ....................................................................... 36
1.88 TCS launches new service suite to accelerate digital integration across enterprises .............................. 36
1.89 ISRO to launch 36 missions including 10 earth observation satellites in 2020-21 ................................... 37
1.90 Government of India measures for the promotion, publicity and conservation of Sanskrit language ..... 37
1.91 IUSSTF - Viterbi Program creates long-term S&T linkages between India & US ...................................... 37
1.92 Parliamentary panel recommends govt to setup one forensic laboratory in every state........................ 37
1.93 Govt eases import restrictions for certain chemicals, aviation gasoline ................................................. 37
1.94 Himachal govt launches Police Station Visitor Survey System and e-Night Beat Checking System.......... 38
1.95 Lok Sabha passes bill declaring Jamnagar ayurveda centre as ‘institution of national importance’ ........ 38
1.96 India to seek $70 million from World Bank for eastern waterway connectivity grid .............................. 38
1.97 Megalithic site found at Karayad .......................................................................................................... 38
1.98 Tamil Nadu CM announces new electric vehicle and data centre parks ................................................. 38
1.99 Amnesty International asks govt to restore 4G services in Kashmir ....................................................... 38

1.100 Covid-19 casts a shadow on Census, NPR exercise ............................................................................ 39
1.101 Parliament passes Central Sanskrit Universities Bill ........................................................................... 39
1.102 PM greets the nation on Navroz ....................................................................................................... 39
1.103 Export of Masks, Ventilators and textile raw material for masks and coveralls prohibited ................ 39
1.104 RFID tagging for coaches and wagons ............................................................................................... 39
1.105 India’s population reached 1.36 billion in mid 2019 .......................................................................... 39
1.106 ICMR received complaints against mis use of stem cell therapy ........................................................ 39
1.107 Cabinet approves signing and ratifying of the Extradition Treaty between India and Belgium ........... 39
1.108 AIIMS Bibinagar to be completed by Sept 2022 ................................................................................. 40
1.109 Indian Oil becomes first firm to begin supply of BS-VI fuel in country ................................................ 40
1.110 PM lauds singers for coronavirus themed songs ............................................................................... 40
1.111 MyGov Corona Helpdesk launched on Whatsapp to provide COVID-19 information ......................... 40
1.112 Youth designed zero hand touch wash basin in Ladakh ..................................................................... 41
1.113 Reliance opens up India's first dedicated COVID-19 facility ............................................................... 41
1.114 First 'Made in India' COVID19 Test Kit to diagnose COVID-19 gets the commercial approval ............. 41
1.115 38th district to be formed in Tamil Nadu............................................................................................ 41
1.116 Reliance to pay twice to those employees who earn below ₹30,000 ................................................. 41
1.117 Cabinet approves MoU between India and Germany in Railway sector ............................................. 41
1.118 National Book Trust of MHRD Launches #StayHomeIndiaWithBooks initiative .................................. 41
1.119 IIT Gandhinagar launches Project 'Isaac' to engage students during Corona lockdown ...................... 42
1.120 Odisha set up largest coronavirus hospital in the country ................................................................. 42
1.121 Grievance Redressal Cell established for food processors ................................................................. 42
1.122 MHRD Innovation Cell, AICTE organises Fight Corona IDEAthon ........................................................ 42
1.123 Andhra Pradesh Police create House Quarantine mobile App to track foreign returnees .................. 42
1.124 Nagaland CM launches Self Declaration COVID-19 App ..................................................................... 42
1.125 Harsh Vardhan launches National Teleconsultation Centre (CoNTeC) ............................................... 43
1.126 VP lauds virologist Minal Dakhave Bhosale for developing testing kit for COVID-19 .......................... 43
1.127 Dept. of Disaster Management designated as Nodal dept. for COVID-19 related procurement in A&N
Islands 43
1.128 NGO VOICE installs hand washing point for people in premises of local taxi stand in Namchi, Sikkim 43
1.130 PM sets up new fund to fight virus.................................................................................................... 44
1.131 India to join WHO drug trial .............................................................................................................. 44
1.132 National Book Trust, India of MHRD to launch ‘Corona Studies Series’ book ..................................... 44
1.133 Odisha govt to train MBBS students for COVID-19 ............................................................................ 44
1.134 Tamil Nadu: 'Modi Kitchen' begins in Kovai, Coimbatore ................................................................... 45
1.135 NGMA celebrates 66 years by launching virtual tour of its permanent collection. ............................. 45

1.136 OMCs announce Ex-Gratia of Rs 5 Lakh for delivery boys and others working in LPG supply chain for
covid-19 45
1.137 New India Assurance to provide ₹50 lakh coverage to 22 lakh healthcare workers ........................... 45
1.138 TCS partners with CSIR to find cure for covid-19 ............................................................................... 45
1.139 Nirmala Sitharaman participates in 2nd G20 meeting of Finance Ministers ....................................... 46
1.140 Ministry of Tourism launches ‘Stranded in India’ portal ................................................................... 46
1.141 MakeMyTrip launches 'Stays for Saviours' for healthcare providers .................................................. 46
1.142 Invest India Business Immunity Platform launched to help businesses withstand COVID-19.............. 46
1.143 SECI, NTPC to set up 10,000-MW renewable energy parks in Rajasthan ............................................ 46
1.144 Tamil Nadu to set up Pharmaceutical Ingredients Park ..................................................................... 47
1.145 meTrack to monitor quarantined persons ......................................................................................... 47
1.146 First ‘Made in India’ Test Kit for COVID-19 by Mylab Gets Commercial Approval from CDSCO ........... 47
1.147 Mahyiddin Yasin sworn in as Malaysia’s Prime Minister .................................................................... 47
1.148 Luxembourg becomes first country to make public transport free .................................................... 47
1.149 Majority of promising AI startups are still based in the US: Study ...................................................... 48
1.150 BRAC retains its position as the top NGO of the world for the 5th consecutive year .......................... 48
1.151 World Health Organization declares Covid-19 as a pandemic ............................................................ 48
1.152 Gantz chosen to form Isreal Government ......................................................................................... 48
1.154 India to be among Australia’s top 3 trading partners by 2035: Envoy ................................................ 48
1.155 Alibaba's Jack Ma donates masks to US ............................................................................................ 48
1.156 Philippines declares cease-fire with rebels to fight Coronavirus ........................................................ 49
1.157 French Competition Authority slaps $1.2 billion fine on Apple .......................................................... 49
1.158 Microsoft Bing team launches COVID 19 tracker globally .................................................................. 49
1.159 Trump administration seeks $850 billion stimulus fund .................................................................... 49
1.160 Philippines becomes first country to suspend all financial markets ................................................... 49
1.161 Coronavirus to hit movement-driven sectors, disrupt supply chains: Moody’s .................................. 50
1.162 US places new leader of Islamic State group on blacklist ................................................................... 50
1.163 Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina vows to build 'Sonar Bangla' of Mujib’s dream................................... 50
1.164 IMF rejects Venezuela’s $5 bn virus aid request ................................................................................ 50
1.165 Angela Merkel calls coronavirus 'Germany's biggest challenge since WWII' ...................................... 50
1.166 Chile declares 90-day state of catastrophe ........................................................................................ 50
1.167 World Bank, ADB give $588 million to Pakistan to fight coronavirus pandemic ................................. 50
1.168 US Prez Trump to hold G7 summit through video-conference ........................................................... 51
1.169 UN launches 2 Billion dollar response plan to fight corona ................................................................ 51
1.170 UAE observes Earth Hour; asks to show support for Planet Earth ...................................................... 51
1.171 National Disinfection Prog to mitigate impact of novel coronavirus in UAE extended ........................ 52
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1.172 Afghanistan, Maldives to contribute USD 1.2 million to SAARC Corona Emergency Fund .................. 52
1.173 Netflix announces $100 million coronavirus relief fund ..................................................................... 52
1.174 Guinea referendum to extend President Alpha Conde’s rule ............................................................. 52
1.175 Instagram launches 'Co-Watching' feature for Social distancing ........................................................ 52
1.176 G20 nations to inject $5 trillion to combat Covid-19 ......................................................................... 53
1.177 Johnson & Johnson to begin human trials of Covid-19 vaccine by September ................................... 53
1.178 North Korea 'successfully' tests 'super-large' multiple rocket launcher ............................................. 53
1.179 Ram Nair named World Vegetable Central Region Head ................................................................... 53
1.180 Pekka Lundmark to succeed Rajiv Suri as Nokia President,CEO ......................................................... 53
1.181 Indian-American Seema Verma named as key member of coronavirus task force in US .................... 53
1.182 Sudhanshu Pandey takes charge as Chairman and Managing Director of MMTC ............................... 54
1.183 Dayapatra Nevatia appointed as next COO of Mindtree .................................................................... 54
1.184 Facebook appoints new communications head for India ................................................................... 54
1.185 RBI Deputy Governor Vishwanathan to quit by Mar 31 over health issues ........................................ 54
1.186 Puma signs Kareena Kapoor Khan as new brand ambassador ........................................................... 54
1.187 Anurag Srivastava to replace Raveesh Kumar as MEA spokesperson ................................................. 54
1.188 Chalasani Venkat Nagesheswar gets additional charge of DMD, CFO of SBI ....................................... 54
1.189 Ajinkya Rahane appointed as Brand Ambassador of MeraKisan ........................................................ 55
1.190 Sunil Mehta assumes Charge as Non Executive Chairman of Yes Bank .............................................. 55
1.191 B L Bhat appointed as officiating chairman of NCLAT ........................................................................ 55
1.192 Baseer Ahmad Khan appointed as J&K adviser .................................................................................. 55
1.193 Former CJI Ranjan Gogoi nominated to Rajya Sabha ......................................................................... 56
1.194 ECI appoints Hirdesh Kumar new Chief Electoral Officer of Jammu and Kashmir ............................... 56
1.195 BBB recommends PR Jaishankar for MD post at IIFCL ........................................................................ 56
1.196 Krishna Reddy quits post of Karnataka Deputy Speaker .................................................................... 56
1.197 Lifestyle International appoints CEO ................................................................................................. 56
1.198 Mphasis appoints CFO ...................................................................................................................... 56
1.199 DXC Technology appoints Nachiket Sukhtankar as MD ...................................................................... 56
1.200 Retired Madras High Court judge appointed chairman of fee fixation committee ............................. 56
1.201 Google ropes in Karan Bajwa to head cloud business ........................................................................ 57
1.202 Pradeep Yadav is MD, Chennai Metro ............................................................................................... 57
1.203 US Prez renominates Indian-American law Professor to Privacy & Civil Liberties Oversight Board ..... 57
1.204 Janani, Vrinda named in International Panel of ICC Development Umpires ....................................... 57
1.205 RBI names R Gandhi, Ananth Gopalkrishnan addl directors on YES Bank Board ................................. 57
1.206 Ex-SBI chief Arundhati Bhattacharya resigns from Crisil board .......................................................... 57
1.207 Kanungo reappointed as Deputy Governor at RBI ............................................................................. 58
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1.208 Government ropes in Amitabh Bachchan to spread awareness about COVID-19 ............................... 58
1.209 Former IBM executive Karan Bajwa appointed Google Cloud India MD ............................................. 58
1.210 Mahindra Logistics appoints VS Parthasarathy as Chairman .............................................................. 58
1.211 ZEE appoints adman Piyush Pandey as independent director ............................................................ 58
1.212 IndusInd Bank appoints Sumant Kathpalia as Managing Director and CEO ........................................ 58
1.213 Walmart promotes Sameer Aggarwal as CEO India business ............................................................. 58
1.214 Prashant Kumar to be CEO & MD of Yes Bank ................................................................................... 59
1.215 Former Indian Hockey Player ‘Balbir Singh Kullar’ passes away ......................................................... 59
1.216 Veteran athletic coach Joginder Singh Saini passes away .................................................................. 59
1.217 GE veteran Jack Welch has died ........................................................................................................ 59
1.218 Ex law Minister Hans Raj passes away ............................................................................................... 59
1.219 Ashraf Ghani sworn in Afghanistan President for second term .......................................................... 59
1.220 Mukesh Ambani losses Asia’s richest Man title ................................................................................. 59
1.221 Raveendran and Gaurav Gupta named in WEF’s Young Global Leaders list........................................ 59
1.222 Nita Ambani named in Influential Women in Sports List 2020 ........................................................... 60
1.223 Former UN Chief Perez de Cuellar passes away ................................................................................. 60
1.224 Veteran journalist Patil Puttappa dies at 99 ...................................................................................... 60
1.225 Virender Sehwag begins entrepreneurial innings with sportswear store ........................................... 60
1.226 Indian football Legend P K Banerjee passes away.............................................................................. 60
1.227 Legendary country music singer Kenny Rogers dies at 81 .................................................................. 60
1.228 Photojournalist T.L. Prabhakar passes away ...................................................................................... 60
1.229 Tamil director Viswanathan passed away.......................................................................................... 61
1.230 Former Real Madrid president Lorenzo Sanz dies of coronavirus ...................................................... 61
1.231 Former footballer Abdul Latif passes away........................................................................................ 61
1.232 Shivraj Singh Chouhan returns as Madhya Pradesh CM ..................................................................... 61
1.233 Renowned artist Satish Gujral passes away ....................................................................................... 61
1.234 Kufos Vice-Chancellor Ramachandran passes away........................................................................... 61
1.235 Oppo claims it made India's first 5G WhatsApp call ........................................................................... 61
1.236 Chandrayaan-3 to be launched in first half of next year: Jitendra Singh............................................. 62
1.237 ARCI develops Fuel Cell Technology for Disaster Management ......................................................... 62
1.238 IIT Madras team develops AI-powered drone to counter rogue drones ............................................. 62
1.239 India-European Union Flagship Call on Integrated Local Energy Systems ........................................... 62
1.240 IIT Madras,Rolls –Royce to collaborate for Research ......................................................................... 62
1.241 11th Bengaluru INDIA Nano conference and exhibition held .............................................................. 62
1.242 IIT Bombay makes glass substrates for 5G devices ............................................................................ 63
1.243 TIFR study reveals role of glucose in regulating liver functions and ageing ........................................ 63
1.244 Australian researchers claim to find two drugs to treat coronavirus.................................................. 63
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1.245 First human trial to evaluate vaccine against COVID-19 begins in US................................................. 63
1.246 Gurgaon-based start-up launches AI-powered thermal camera for Covid-19 detection ..................... 63
1.247 New edible freshwater fish discovered in Andhra Pradesh ................................................................ 63
1.248 A key cellular mechanism in Huntington Disease unraveled .............................................................. 63
1.249 Technology Development Board invites Tech proposals for fighting COVID 19 .................................. 64
1.250 US FDA approves first rapid ‘point-of-care’ test for coronavirus ........................................................ 64
1.251 SpaceX plans first manned flight to space station in May .................................................................. 64
1.252 Microsoft, US CDC tie-up to create ‘Clara’, a COVID-19 self-screening bot......................................... 64
1.253 Hydroxy Chloroquine effective in stopping Novel Corona Virus infection: A study ............................. 65
1.254 Indian scientists reveal first microscopic image of novel coronavirus ................................................ 65
1.255 World Wildlife day celebrates on 3rd March ..................................................................................... 65
1.256 Workshop on “Increasing Water Use Efficiency in Industries” held ................................................... 65
1.257 Jan auashadhi Diwas observed on 7th of March ................................................................................ 66
1.258 World Consumers Rights Day observed on 15th of March ................................................................. 66
1.259 World TB Day observed on 24 March ................................................................................................ 66
1.260 World Sparrow Day observed on 20th of March ............................................................................... 66
1.261 Pragyan Conclave 2020: Indian Army’s International Seminar Analysing Future Warfare .................. 66
1.262 Establishment of Defence corridors at Tamil Nadu ............................................................................ 66
1.264 DAC gives approval for procurement of Tejas fighter aircraft for Indian Air Force ............................. 67
1.265 ‘She inspires Us' Indian Army conducts Self Defence Training for Women......................................... 67
1.266 Mountain Terrain Bike Expedition at Air Force Station Kasauli .......................................................... 67
1.267 Ministry of Defence signs Rs 880 crore contract for Light Machine Guns with Israeli firm ................. 67
1.268 Defence Secretary lays foundation of Pay Accounts Office (Other Ranks) Rajputana Rifles Regimental
Centre 68
1.269 Army team in Maldives to set up virus testing lab ............................................................................. 68
1.270 In a first, India, France conduct joint patrols from Reunion Island ..................................................... 68
1.271 Rafael Nadal wins Men’s Singles title at 2020 Mexican Open ............................................................ 68
1.272 Rani, Vikas Krishan become first Indian boxers to qualify for Tokyo Olympics ................................... 68
1.273 Australia beat India to win ICC Women's T20 World Cup .................................................................. 69
1.274 Manpreet and Rani bag player of the Year Award ............................................................................. 69
1.275 Tiger Woods to be inducted into World Gold Hall of Fame in 2021 class ........................................... 69
1.276 Indian boxers bag six gold at Golden Girl Championship in Sweden .................................................. 69
1.277 Saurashtra wins maiden Ranji Trophy title ........................................................................................ 69
1.278 ICC Test rankings: India retains top spot, Bumrah in top 10 bowlers list ............................................ 69
1.279 FIH World Rankings: India men's hockey team achieve all-time high 4th rank ................................... 69
1.280 Shafali Verma at top spot in ICC women's T20I rankings ................................................................... 70
1.281 Former India spinner Sunil Joshi named BCCI’s selection committee chairman ................................. 70
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1.282 Mumbai set to host International Olympic Committee session in 2023 ............................................. 70
1.283 Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) 2019 function held in New Delhi............................................. 70
1.284 First ever Khelo India Winter Games begin at Gulmarg in Kashmir .................................................... 70
1.285 Taiwan's Tai Tzu Ying clinches her third women's singles title of All England Championships ............ 71
1.286 Euro-2020 football tournament postponed by one year due to COVID-19 threat .............................. 71
1.287 Cricket Australia planning to host men's T20 World Cup as per schedule .......................................... 71
1.288 PCB postpones Pakistan Super League amid COVID-19 pandemic ..................................................... 71
1.289 French Open tennis tournament postponed till September .............................................................. 71
1.290 Coronavirus: Athletics Federation of India cancels Indian GP Grand Prix ........................................... 71
1.291 Tokyo Olympics postponed to 2021 .................................................................................................. 71
1.292 India's first-ever day-night Test at Eden Garden viewed by 43 million ............................................... 71
Banking............................................................................................................................................................ 72
1.293 RBL Bank, Zomato and Mastercard partner to launch co-branded credit cards.................................. 72
1.294 ICICI Prudential AMC ties up Saraswat Co-op Bank to tap rural potential .......................................... 72
1.295 Paytm Payments Bank has best technology for UPI payments: Report .............................................. 72
1.296 SBI scraps minimum monthly balance requirement .......................................................................... 72
1.297 BSNL, SBI partner to launch UPI-based payment platform................................................................. 72
1.298 MSDE launches Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship programme .................................................. 73
1.299 HDFC to hold 7.97% stake in Yes Bank for ₹1,000 crore infusion ....................................................... 73
1.300 COVID-19: SBI opens emergency credit line ...................................................................................... 73
1.301 SBI commits 0.25% of annual profit to help fight coronavirus outbreak in India ................................ 73
1.302 ICICI Lombard, BharatPe launch COVID-19 insurance cover for shopkeepers .................................... 73
1.303 ICICI launches WhatsApp banking ..................................................................................................... 73
1.304 ICICI Bank gets 7.97% stake in Yes Bank ............................................................................................ 74
1.305 Jana SFB launches UPI QR-based loan installment payment facility ................................................... 74
1.306 Film critiquing Iranian death penalty wins golden Bear ..................................................................... 74
1.307 Central award for TSSPDCL ............................................................................................................... 74
1.308 Scientists from DRDO & IIT Delhi receive Awards for Young Women Showing Excellence .................. 75
1.309 Four AAI-run airports among best aerodromes ................................................................................. 75
1.310 Awards for Excellence in IT in AYUSH sector announced ................................................................... 75
2 GA + ESI in news........................................................................................................................................... 76
2.1 Ministry of HRD celebrates International Women’s Day in Schools and Colleges................................... 76
2.2 UGC has developed Jeevan Kaushal Curriculum to upgrade life skills of undergraduate students .......... 76
2.3 BEE launches star rating programme for Deep Freezer and Light Commercial Air Conditioners (LCAC) .. 76
2.4 4.39 lakh candidates trained under Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalaya Yojana in 2 years ..... 77
2.5 Bill for extending upper limit of abortion to 24 weeks introduced in Lok Sabha .................................... 78
2.6 Celebration of Janaushadhi Week from 1st to 7th March...................................................................... 78
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2.7 Fitch Solutions cuts India's economic growth forecast to 4.9% for FY20 ................................................ 78
2.8 OECD slashes India's growth projection as COVID-19 weighs on global growth ..................................... 78
2.9 Punjab scraps service extension policy for government employees....................................................... 79
2.10 A draft notification to limit trans-fat to be not more than 2% ............................................................... 79
2.11 CM Palaniswami launches Tamil Nadu Health System Reform Programme ........................................... 79
2.12 Majority of promising AI startups are still based in the US: Study.......................................................... 79
2.13 Cabinet approves the Foreign Direct Investment policy on Civil Aviation .............................................. 80
2.14 Dedicated Desk of Invest India for NER ................................................................................................. 80
2.15 Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launches Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) Phase-II .......................... 81
2.16 Around 60 % women account holders out of 34 crore accounts opened under PMJDY ......................... 81
2.17 World Bank announces 12 bn aid package to help countries combat coronavirus outbreak .................. 82
2.18 India is host to 457 migratory fauna, shows latest CMS list ................................................................... 82
2.19 Student Health Card scheme for school children launched in J&K ......................................................... 82
2.20 Around 63 housewives committed suicide every day in 2018: NCRB data ............................................. 82
2.21 States slashed capital outlay by 14% to plug fiscal deficit: Report ......................................................... 83
2.22 Feb unemployment rate hits 4-month high of 7.78% as slowdown persists: CMIE................................. 83
2.23 Centre finalises set of 31 questions to ask citizens during Census 2021 ................................................. 84
2.24 India saw Rs 6.14 trillion, or 3% of GDP, escape tax net in 2017: Report ............................................... 84
2.25 Gross enrolments of new subscribers with ESIC were 1.49 crore during the entire financial year 2018-19
85
2.26 India 5th Most Polluted Country In The World: Report........................................................................... 85
2.27 Union HRD Minister launches UKIERI-UGC Higher Education Leadership Development Programme for
Administrators in New Delhi ............................................................................................................................ 86
2.28 Maharashtra legislature passes a bill allowing election of Sarpanch or village headman from members of
local bodies...................................................................................................................................................... 86
2.29 CCEA approves Creation of National Technical Textiles Mission ............................................................ 86
2.30 Smriti Zubin Irani releases book to celebrate leaders of BBBP scheme .................................................. 87
2.31 NITI Aayog organizes the Fourth Edition of the Women Transforming India Awards ............................. 87
2.32 Workshop-cum-Awareness Programme on Skill Development for Unorganized Workers concludes at
Kulgam ............................................................................................................................................................ 88
2.33 Bombay and Delhi IITs among world’s top 50 tech institutions ............................................................. 88
2.34 Freedom in the World 2020 report ranks India among least free democracies ...................................... 89
2.35 Coronavirus: IMF makes available $50 bn to help emerging market countries ...................................... 90
2.36 Gujarat govt announces hike in payment of Anganwadi women ........................................................... 90
2.37 Govt plans to have at least one PMBJP Kendra in each block of country by end of 2020 ....................... 90
2.38 2nd anniversary of Poshan Abhiyaan 'Poshan Pakhwada' being celebrated ............................................ 91
2.39 Govt to make sanitary napkin disposal bags mandatory from January 2021 .......................................... 91
2.40 Govt plans to create 75 lakh SHGs by 2022 ........................................................................................... 92
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2.41 India ranked 12th in women member presence on companies' board globally ....................................... 92
2.42 Gujarat tops in domestic solar rooftop installations .............................................................................. 92
2.43 UN economists forecast drop of up to 15 % in FDI worldwide due to Novel Corona virus outbreak ....... 92
2.44 43rd Annual Day of the National Institute of Health & Family Welfare (NIHFW) takes place ................... 93
2.45 Moody's slashes India's growth projection for 2020 to 5.3% ................................................................. 93
2.46 FDI inflows recorded highest ever for fiscal year 2018-19 ..................................................................... 93
2.47 India was world’s second-largest arms importer in 2015-19: Report ..................................................... 94
2.48 LPG scheme PM Ujjwala Yojana closed, but only 3 States have become kerosene-free ......................... 94
2.49 67% of donations to national parties by unknown sources.................................................................... 94
2.50 Integrated Project for Source Sustainability and Climate Resilient Rain-Fed Agriculture in Himachal
Pradesh ........................................................................................................................................................... 95
2.51 First ever regional event Divya Kala Shakti takes place at Chennai ........................................................ 95
2.52 Shared economy at $2 bn by end-2020 ................................................................................................. 96
2.53 EU proposes ‘right to repair’ legislation to curb e-waste ....................................................................... 96
2.54 New Textile Policy - 2020 ...................................................................................................................... 97
2.55 Losses of Electricity units not billed by States/UTs provisionally comes to 15.73 percent ...................... 97
2.56 Thermal Power Plants to Have 2,43,034 MW Capacity by 2021-22 ....................................................... 97
2.57 Industrial output grows 2% in January, highest in 6 months .................................................................. 98
2.58 India's current account deficit eases to 0.2% of GDP in December quarter ........................................... 98
2.59 Banks' credit grows 6.13%, deposits 9% in the second half of Feb: RBI data .......................................... 99
2.60 UP govt launches schemes for skill development & employment generation for youths ....................... 99
2.61 Govt brings masks and hand sanitizers under the Essential Commodities Act ....................................... 99
2.62 India’s overall exports (Merchandise and Services combined) in April-February 2019-20* are estimated
to be USD 491.64 billion................................................................................................................................. 100
2.63 Shri Amit Shah chairs the Flag-in Ceremony of Ganga Aamantran Abhiyan ......................................... 101
2.64 Maternity Benefit Disbursed to 1.36 Crore Beneficiaries under PMMVY ............................................. 101
2.65 National Creche Scheme..................................................................................................................... 101
2.66 Cabinet approves scheme for “Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP)” to boost
exports Scheme for enhancing Exports to International Markets.................................................................... 102
2.67 Exports post first rise in 7 months, grow by 2.91%in February ............................................................ 102
2.68 Centre notifies new POCSO rules making law for sexual offences against children more stringent ...... 103
2.69 Census India-2021 to be conducted in two phases .............................................................................. 103
2.70 Heat stress may impact over 1.2 billion people annually by 2100: study ............................................. 104
2.71 PM proposes set up of COVID-19 Emergency Fund for SAARC countries ............................................. 104
2.72 Poor women in urban areas shorter, thinner and more anaemic: Study .............................................. 104
2.73 Uttar Pradesh mandates 25% procurement from MSMEs by govt depts and PSUs .............................. 105
2.74 New law in U.P. to recover costs for damaging property ..................................................................... 105
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2.75 Women still don't have level-playing field at work, says pan-IIM survey ............................................. 106
2.76 Indian millennial women prefer housing for investment: Anarock-LIC survey ..................................... 106
2.77 On the eve of Women’s Day WCD Minister releases report on status of women in media in South Asia
107
2.78 Coronavirus to wipe out $77-$347 bn global GDP, hurt Asian nations the most: ADB ......................... 107
2.79 Kerala to launch total digital literacy campaign ................................................................................... 107
2.80 Cash usage now at pre-demonetisation levels: CMS Info Systems report ............................................ 107
2.81 Lok Sabha passes Mines and Mineral Laws (Amendment) Bill ............................................................. 108
2.82 India ranked 46th out of 100 nations on inclusive internet index 2020 ................................................. 108
2.83 Intel joins CBSE to empower 1 lakh Indian students in Artificial Intelligence ....................................... 109
2.84 Karnataka’s first ‘Child Budget’ presented .......................................................................................... 109
2.85 J&K: Govt to advance target of achieving 100% Functional Household Tap Connections by Dec 2021 . 109
2.86 Google India launches skill development programme for women ....................................................... 110
2.87 Workplace safety still an issue: survey ................................................................................................ 110
2.88 First ever Indore – Kishangarh flight commenced under UDAN ........................................................... 110
2.89 WPI inflation eases to 2.26% in Feb .................................................................................................... 111
2.90 Parliament passes Central Sanskrit Universities Bill, 2020 ................................................................... 111
2.91 Employees’ Pension Scheme (Amendment) Scheme, 2020 ................................................................. 111
2.92 10 projects have been approved under Mission Solar Charkha ........................................................... 112
2.93 438 EMRSs have so far been sanctioned ............................................................................................. 112
2.94 Govt set up an ambitious target to achieve sales of around 70 lakh hybrid and electric vehicles in 2020
112
2.95 West Bengal has setup an emergency fund of Rs 200 crores ............................................................... 113
2.96 India Inc fears coronavirus to pull down GDP by 50 bps ...................................................................... 113
2.97 More than Rs 20,000 crores of loans sanctioned under Stand Up India Scheme since inception.......... 113
2.98 National Guidelines on Infant and Young Child Feeding ...................................................................... 114
2.99 Power Generation from Conventional Sources Registered Annual Growth of 5.45% in 2018-19 as
compared to 2015-16 .................................................................................................................................... 114
2.100 Lok Sabha passes Aircraft (Amendment) Bill, 2020 .......................................................................... 115
2.101 Centre sanctions 93 per cent of projects under ‘Housing for all’...................................................... 115
2.102 Tamil-medium education since school must for preference in jobs under (PSTM) quota ................. 115
2.103 Implementation of Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana ................................................................................. 115
2.104 Supply of iron ore during last year i.e. 2018-19 was 207.7 MT......................................................... 116
2.105 Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank chairs meeting on Research in Indian Traditional Knowledge Systems in
Delhi 116
2.106 Govt proposes to restructure and formulate a scheme for Rehabilitation of Beggars ...................... 116
2.107 Govt taking positive steps for listing Bhojpuri, Rajasthani & Bhoti into 8th Schedule of constitution 117
2.108 Gujarat education department to telecast lessons through private regional TV channels ................ 117
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2.109 Rajya Sabha passes National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Bill 2019 .......................... 117
2.110 World Bank increases COVID-19 response funding to 14 bln USD.................................................... 117
2.111 Karnataka passes Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2020, ................... 118
2.112 Coronavirus: ADB announces $6.5 bn package for developing member countries ........................... 118
2.113 Ministry of Consumer Affairs celebrated the World Consumer Day ................................................. 118
2.114 An amount of Rs. 15566.96 lakh has been approved for State Specific Projects for the year 2019-20
under Samagra Shiksha .................................................................................................................................. 119
2.115 Ministry of HRD and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have jointly developed comprehensive
School Health Programme (SHP) to promote health and well being of students ............................................. 120
2.116 Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti informed about the Implementation of National Aquifer
Mapping and Management program (NAQUIM) ............................................................................................ 120
2.117 Funds for Namami Gange Programme ............................................................................................ 120
2.118 Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme ................................................................... 121
2.119 Export of MSME Products ............................................................................................................... 122
2.120 10 % reduction in accidental deaths after implementation of new Motor Vehicles Act ................... 123
2.121 Centre issues gazette notification for adaptation of 37 central laws in J&K ..................................... 124
2.122 Institute of Teaching & Research in Ayurveda Bill, 2020 .................................................................. 124
2.123 WHO launches Health Alert on WhatsApp ...................................................................................... 124
2.124 Department of Science & Technology designs scheme for R&D on vaccines and diagnostics for Covid-
19 124
2.125 PM Modi announces Covid-19 Economic Response Task Force to tackle virus outbreak .................. 125
2.126 Students to continue their learning by making full use of the available digital e-Learning platforms 125
2.127 Cabinet approves Promotion of domestic manufacturing of critical Key Starting Materials/Drug
Intermediates and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients in the country ............................................................. 126
2.128 Cabinet approves inclusion of the AYUSH Health & Wellness Centres component of Ayushman Bharat
in National AYUSH Mission............................................................................................................................. 127
2.129 Cabinet approves Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Large Scale Electronics Manufacturing . 127
2.130 Cabinet approves Modified Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC 2.0) Scheme......................... 128
2.131 J&K govt constitutes commission for welfare of socially, educationally backward classes ............... 129
2.132 National and State level awards to Anganwadi Workers ................................................................. 129
2.133 23 E-Commerce Agencies for Online Marketing of Handloom Products .......................................... 129
2.134 TRIFED Launches transformational “Tech For Tribals” program in partnership with Institutes of
National Importance (INIs) to develop Tribal entrepreneurship...................................................................... 129
2.135 Mahatma Gandhi Bunkar Bima Yojana ............................................................................................ 130
2.136 Aadhaar Cards issued to over 90% population of India as of Feb 2020: Govt ................................... 130
2.137 European Central Bank to print 1 trn euro this year to stem Covid-19 rout ..................................... 130
2.138 Union Minister of Women and Child Development has informed about Scheme for Adolescent Girls
(SAG) 130
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2.139 CIPET to providing Skilling 5 Lakh persons and 5 Lakh industries in 2019-2024 period, against 3 Lakh
each in previous 5 years ................................................................................................................................ 131
2.140 DPIIT has taken various initiatives for Strengthening Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Regime in India
131
2.141 7.1% CAGR recorded in trade with India’s FTA and PTA partner countries ....................................... 132
2.142 Implementation of 'One Nation, One Ration Card' Scheme ............................................................. 132
2.143 Minister of state informs about development of Entrepreneurship in the Country ......................... 132
2.144 Lok Sabha passes Indian Institutes of Information Technology Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2020 .......... 133
2.145 Setting Up of National Technical Textile Mission ............................................................................. 134
2.146 India is 3rd largest producer of Electricity in the World .................................................................... 134
2.147 Draft National Water Policy ............................................................................................................ 134
2.148 National Supercomputing Mission: a transformative approach in supercomputing ......................... 135
2.149 S&P pegs cost of COVID-19 outbreak at $620 billion for Asia-Pacific region..................................... 136
2.150 Coronavirus could cost airlines $252 billion revenue in 2020: IATA ................................................. 136
2.151 Cost of COVID-19 India lockdown pegged at Rs 9 lakh crore............................................................ 136
2.152 Coronavirus to shave off Rs 40k cr everyday from Indian economy: CARE Ratings ........................... 136
2.153 Finance Minister announces Rs 1.70 Lakh Crore relief package under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan
Yojana for the poor to help them fight the battle against Corona Virus .......................................................... 137
2.154 High Level Committee under the Chairmanship of Union Home Minister approves Rs. 5,751.27 crore
of additional Central assistance to 8 States .................................................................................................... 137
2.155 G20 nations vow to inject USD 5 trillion to fight Covid-19 ............................................................... 138
2.156 Coronavirus: SIDBI to provide loans up to ₹50 lakh to MSEs manufacturing medical supplies ......... 138
2.157 India proposes SAARC health e-platform to exchange info, expertise to tackle COVID-19 ............... 138
2.158 Himachal Pradesh government forms ‘HP COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund’ for health workers . 138
2.159 Jharkhand government launches PRAGYAAM app to issue e-passes to everyone associated with
delivery of essential services amid lockdown ................................................................................................. 139
2.160 West Bengal Govt extends insurance coverage of Care givers to COVID-19 patients to Rs 10 lakh ... 139
2.161 ADB announces 100 million US Dollars funding for Indian infrastructure sector .............................. 139
2.162 Gujarat Education dept to introduce home learning process following lockdown............................ 139
2.163 Millions of people could be driven into poverty in East Asia and Pacific: World Bank ...................... 139
2.164 Government extends existing foreign trade policy (2015-20) for one year till March 2021 .............. 140
2.165 India's February core sector growth at 11-month high of 5.5% ....................................................... 140
2.166 India may see up to 13 lakh cases of COVID-19 by mid-May, warn scientists ................................... 141
2.167 About 33% of Indian employees face age-based bias at workplaces: Report ................................... 141
2.168 Covid-19 impact: CII sets up a fund for MSMEs ............................................................................... 141
2.169 Warm, humid climate linked to slower COVID-19 transmission: MIT Study ..................................... 142
2.170 CRISIL cuts GDP growth forecast for fiscal 2021 to 3.5 per cent ....................................................... 142
2.171 Economic growth may fall to 2.6% in FY21 during lockdown: SBI Ecowrap ...................................... 142
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2.172 Aviation firms may suffer losses of up to USD 3.6 billion: CAPA ....................................................... 142
2.173 Coronavirus tracker: Microsoft launches COVID-19 tracking website .............................................. 143
2.174 Media and entertainment sector grew about 9%, says FICCI-EY report ........................................... 143
2.175 CSIR announces innovation awards for school children ................................................................... 143
2.176 COVID 19: SC directs States, UTs to set up panel to consider release of prisoners on parole ........... 143
2.177 WEF invites India to join its Covid Action Platform .......................................................................... 144
2.178 Coronavirus: UBS cuts India's FY21 real GDP growth forecast from 5.1% to 4% ............................... 144
2.179 WHO, UN Foundation and Partners Launch First-of-its-Kind COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund .... 144
2.180 CM Yogi Transfers First Instalment to 20 Lakh People Under Shramik Bharan Poshan Yojana .......... 144
2.181 Govt forms ministerial-level committee to resolve supply-chain issues ........................................... 144
2.182 49-day lockdown necessary to stop coronavirus resurgence in India: Study .................................... 145
2.183 Developing nations need $2.5 trillion to fight Covid-19 impact, says Unctad report ........................ 145
2.184 Indian economy can contract 2.6%; US over 11% in worst case in 2020: Nomura ............................ 145
3 GA + Finance in news ................................................................................................................................. 146
3.1 Govt introduces bill to amend banking laws to strengthen cooperative banks .................................... 146
3.2 Govt planning to launch lottery offer under the GST from 1 April, 2020 .............................................. 147
3.3 PAN card holders could be fined ₹10,000 for not linking it with Aadhaar ............................................ 148
3.4 Bank credit growth dips to 8.5 per cent in January: RBI data ............................................................... 148
3.5 India factory activity growth slows in Feb on weak demand - PMI....................................................... 149
3.6 Indian VC industry sees record $10 bn investment in 2019: Report ..................................................... 149
3.7 RBI receives ₹1.71 trillion in LTRO....................................................................................................... 150
3.8 Around Rs 10.52-trn corporate debt at risk of default over slowdown: Report .................................... 150
3.9 IEX to launch trading platform Indian Gas Exchange ........................................................................... 150
3.10 Govt collects ₹7.52 lakh cr direct tax in Apr-Jan .................................................................................. 151
3.11 LLP settlement Scheme 2020 launched ............................................................................................... 151
3.12 Cabinet approves Companies (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019............................................................ 152
3.13 NABARD infuses Rs 1.46 lakh cr in rural banking system during current fiscal ..................................... 152
3.14 Lok Sabha passes direct tax dispute resolution scheme ...................................................................... 153
3.15 SC allows cryptocurrency trading, quashes RBI ban ............................................................................ 154
3.16 226th Meeting of Central Board of Trustees takes place ...................................................................... 154
3.17 RBI imposes moratorium on Yes Bank; caps withdrawals at ₹50,000 .................................................. 155
3.18 SEBI launches mobile app for investors to lodge grievances ................................................................ 156
3.19 SEBI proposes new mechanism to make e-voting convenient for shareholders ................................... 156
3.20 RBI to extend ₹10,000 crore under special liquidity facility ................................................................. 156
3.21 Govt approves 72 amendments to Companies Act to decriminalise offences: FM ............................... 157
3.22 India's market cap-to-GDP now below long-term average of 76%: Report .......................................... 157
3.23 Defaults by NBFCs on secured debentures prompt SEBI to introduce reforms .................................... 158
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3.24 SEBI allows non-bank custodians to manage gold, related instruments............................................... 158
3.25 Canara Bank issues Basel III-compliant Tier II Bonds ........................................................................... 159
3.26 Debt Quality Index declines again in February, says CARE Ratings ....................................................... 159
3.27 Parliament passes Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill 2020 .......................................... 159
3.28 RBI to infuse ₹4.05 lakh crore rupee liquidity...................................................................................... 160
3.29 Bandhan Bank to replace Yes Bank in Nifty50 index from March 27 .................................................... 160
3.30 Ind-AS: RBI frames regulatory guidance for NBFCs and ARCs .............................................................. 160
3.31 RBI cuts UCB exposure limits to group of connected borrowers; give one more year to meet enhanced
PSL norms ...................................................................................................................................................... 161
3.32 NCLAT to have a bench at Chennai, notification issued ....................................................................... 162
3.33 Fake Currency..................................................................................................................................... 163
3.34 Bank Mergers ..................................................................................................................................... 163
3.35 SEBI revises Manager Eligibility norms for InvITs ................................................................................. 163
3.36 Fast-track rights issue: SEBI comes out with guidelines for REITs, InvITs.............................................. 164
3.37 Survey finds 82% women prefer stocks, mutual funds for investments ............................................... 165
3.38 Lok Sabha passes Appropriation Bill.................................................................................................... 166
3.39 SEBI revokes market ban on individual in Ricoh India case .................................................................. 166
3.40 SEBI proposes one commodity, one exchange model to make India price-setter ................................ 167
3.41 RBI to infuse ₹10,000 crore via OMO .................................................................................................. 167
3.42 Finance Commission constitutes Committee to Review Fiscal Consolidation Roadmap of the General
Government .................................................................................................................................................. 168
3.43 Public Debt Management Quarterly Report — October to December 2019 ........................................ 168
3.44 SEBI grants temporary relaxation from disclosure norms .................................................................... 169
3.45 DPIIT notifies decision to permit NRIs to own up to 100% stake in Air India ........................................ 169
3.46 SEBI steps in to tackle volatility........................................................................................................... 170
3.47 RBI chalks out contingency plan for smooth functioning of services .................................................... 170
3.48 RBI extends priority sector classification for bank loans to NBFCs to FY21........................................... 171
3.49 Credit card, debit card payments to be safer online with new RBI rules .............................................. 171
3.50 Covid-19: SBI opens emergency credit line for borrowers ................................................................... 172
3.51 ICICI Lombard launches a dedicated insurance cover for coronavirus ................................................. 173
3.52 To help small companies, threshold limit for defaults under IBC raised to ₹1 cr .................................. 173
3.53 Cabinet approves recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks to improve their Capital to Risk Weighted
Assets Ratio ................................................................................................................................................... 173
3.54 PAN-Aadhaar linking can be done at PAN service centres: Income tax department ............................. 174
3.55 Non-life insurers register 14% premium collection growth in Apr-Feb FY20 ........................................ 174
3.56 Indian Bank announces special emergency loan schemes to address lockdown .................................. 175
3.57 Paytm Payments Bank to now issue Visa debit cards .......................................................................... 175
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3.58 RBI to inject ₹10,000 cr into markets via bonds .................................................................................. 176
3.59 ONGC exudes confidence of withstanding current volatility; declares 100% interim dividend ............. 176
3.60 RBI offers Rs 11,722 cr to banks through repo auction ........................................................................ 176
3.61 RBI permits 3-month moratorium on EMI payments on all outstanding loans ..................................... 176
3.62 Government misses disinvestment target for FY20 by Rs14,701 crore ................................................ 177
3.63 Forex reserves fall by $12 bn, the most since 2008 global financial crisis ............................................ 177
3.64 To fight Covid-19, SIDBI to provide loans to MSEs manufacturing medical supplies ............................. 178
3.65 Covid19: IRDAI relaxes re-insurance norms......................................................................................... 178
3.66 Ministry of Corporate Affairs introduces the “Companies Fresh Start Scheme, 2020” and revised the
“LLP Settlement Scheme, 2020” ..................................................................................................................... 178
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1 GA in News:
National news
1.1 Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela-2020 held
• Recently, the Pusa Krishi Vigyan Mela 2020 has been held in Delhi.
• It was inaugurated by the Union Minister for Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Rural
Development & Panchayati Raj Narendra Singh Tomar.
• Aim- Retention of talent in agriculture.
1.2 New explosive detection device unveiled at NWED-2020

● Recently, the National Workshop on Explosive Detection (NWED 2020) has been organized in
Pune.
● A new explosive detection device named “RalDer -X” was unveiled at the workshop.
● It has been co-developed by High Energy Materials Research Laboratory (HEMRL) Pune and
Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore.
1.3 IAF, Savitribai Phule Pune University sign MoU to establish Chair of Excellence
● Recently, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has entered into an academic collaboration and signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Savitribai Phule Pune University.
● The Mou aims at establishing a ‘Chair of Excellence’ named as ‘Marshal of the Air Force Arjan
Singh Chair of Excellence’.
1.4 Finance Minister Sitharaman addresses at 44th Civil Accounts Day

● Recently, Finance Minister Sitharaman has addressed the 44th Civil Accounts Day.
● The Indian Civil Accounts Service (ICAS) organises the Civil Accounts Day every year on March
1.
1.5 Minister Amit Shah inaugrated NSG Regional Hub at Kolkata

● Recently, the Union Minister has inaugurated the National Security Guard (NSG) Regional
Hub campus at Kolkata.
● Aim-To provide adequate facilities to the NSG jawans.
1.6 Ports review meeting held in Malappuram

● Recently, a three day Ports Review Meeting named ‘Chintan Baithak’ has been concluded.
● Venue- Mamallapuram, Tamilnadu.
● Minister of State for Shipping (I/C), Shri Mansukh Mandaviya has chaired the meeting.
● Chairpersons of all Major Ports of India, senior officials of the Ministry of Shipping, and other
officials of Major Ports attended the meeting.
1.7 Week Long Exhibition-cum-Fair begins in New Delhi

● Recently, the National Handicapped Finance Development Corporation (NHFDC) has organized
a week-long Exhibition-cum-Fair “EKAM Fest” in New Delhi.
● It is an effort for promoting entrepreneurship and knowledge among the Divyangjan
community.
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1.8 Training of Nepal's judicial officers begins in India
● Recently, The first batch of 30 Judicial Officers from Supreme Court of Nepal has started their
training programme at the National Law University, Jodhpur in Rajasthan.
● They will be trained on “Case Management and Court Management”.
1.9 Arunachal Pradesh Assembly goes paperless

● Recently, the Arunachal Pradesh Assembly has gone paperless with the implementation of e-
Vidhan application in the house.
● Aim – To boost Digital India Initiative.
1.10 SCR launches QR Code Tickets

● Recently, The South Central Railway (SCR) has introduced QR (Quick Response) code ticketing.
● This utility facilitates passengers to book tickets through Unreserved Ticketing System (UTS)
on mobile apps.
● It is Applicable within the station premises and also from the areas within the vicinity of one
kilometre radius from the station by scanning the QR code of that station.
1.11 Facebook launches multi-lingual ‘More Together’ ad campaign in India

● Recently, Facebook has launched an advertising campaign called ‘More Together’ In India.
● India has become the first country in the Asia Pacific region where such a campaign is being
rolled out.
● The series of campaigns will air across television in eight languages.
1.12 Oppo launches mutual funds platform, offers SIPs from Rs 100
● Recently, Oppo has announced a mutual funds platform named ‘Kash’, which will be pre-
installed in all Oppo smartphones.
● It will offer SIPs commencing with ₹100 of investment.
1.13 Jammu civic body renames historic civic chowk

● Recently, the historic City Chowk in Jammu and Kashmir has been renamed as Bharat Mata
Chowk by the Jammu Municipal Corporation (JMC).
● The starting point of Circular Road has been renamed as 'Atal ji Chowk' in the memory of
former prime minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
1.14 UP: famous Rangotsav begins at Barsana in Mathura

● Recently, The famous Rangotsav celebration has begun at Barsana in Mathura.
● The Rangotsav has been inaugurated by the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh Yogi Adityanath
who also participated in Laddoo Holi.
● It will also feature cultural events and the entire town of Barsana will be decorated with
flowers and colours.
1.15 Nataka Academy to host Vrutti Rangabhoomi Natakotsa

● Recently, The Karnataka Nataka Academy has organized a three-day theatre festival Vrutti
Rangabhoomi Natakotsava.
● Venue- Kalaburagi, Karnataka.
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1.16 Cabinet approves MoU between India and Côte d’lvoire
● Recently, the Cabinet has approved Memorandum of Understanding ( MoU) between India
and Côte d’lvoire.
● The MoU was aimed to enhance cooperation in the field of Health.
About Cote d’ivoire(Ivory Coast)
● Capital: Yamousoukro (Political Capital) , Abidjan (Economic Capital)
● Currency: West African CFA franc
1.17 India Pharma & India Medical Device 2020 Conference held
● Recently, India Pharma 2020 & India Medical Device 2020 Conference & Exhibition has taken
place at Gandhinagar, Gujrat.
● Theme- “India Pharma: Meeting Challenges of Affordable and Quality Healthcare and India
Medical Device: Promoting Affordable responsible and Quality Medical Device for Universal
Health Care”.
● Aim- To encourage innovations to further reduce the cost of quality healthcare for all and to
render a platform to the global investment community to connect with stakeholders in the
Medical Device Sector in India.
1.18 68th All India Police Athletic Championship began in Haryana

● Recently, the 68th All India Police Athletic Championship-2019 began at Bhanu in Panchkula
District of Haryana.
● The event was inaugurated by the Union Minister of State for Youth Affairs and Sports Kiren
Rijiju, who declared the meet open at the Basic Training Center of Indo-Tibetan Border Police
(ITBP).
1.19 Western Railway announces bonus for every recharge to R-Wallet

● Recently, Western Railway has announced a bonus of 5 percent for every recharge to the R-
Wallet as an incentive to promote mobile ticketing.
● Aim- to patronize the use of UTS Mobile Ticketing App and avail the enhanced benefits
attached with their use.
1.20 Earthquakes in India at three-year high in 2019

● The Indian subcontinent has suffered some of the deadliest earthquakes globally, with more
than 60% of its land area prone to shaking of intensity.
1.21 PM to address Economic Times Global Business Summit

● Recently, Prime Minister has addressed the inaugural session of the Economic Times Global
Business Summit on 6th March 2020.
● He has addressed the delegates from across the world.
● Broad theme of Global Business Summit 2020 is ‘Collaborate to Create: Sustainable Growth
in a Fractured World’.
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1.22 Union HRD Minister felicitates Anju Rani, a young education activist in New Delhi
● The Union Human Resource Development Minister, Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank has
felicitated a social activist Anju Rani.
● She is a seventeen year young social activist working in the field of education in New Delhi.
● Her mission ‘BulandUdaan’ is working on several other issues like so far, she has solved 965
child atrocity cases, enrolled prevented 40 child marriages, intervened in 15 sexual-
harassment cases, etc.
1.23 ICONSAT 2020 begins in Kolkata

● The International Conference on Nano Science and Nano Technology (ICONSAT) under the
aegis of Nano Mission, Department of Science and Technology (DST) has been organised at
Kolkata.
● It aims to focus on the recent advances in this frontier research field with an emphasis on 5Ms-
mechanical, material, machines, manufacturing and manpower.
1.24 Setting Up of Port in Maharashtra

● Recently, Government of India has accorded in-principle approval to develop port at Vadhavan
in Maharashtra.
● It will be set up on a landlord model by a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) incorporated under
Companies Act, 2013 with Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) as a lead Partner.
● The project is proposed to be financed through a blend of equity and debt. The SPV will provide
equity and raise debt from multilateral financial institutions.
1.25 Delhi govt forms task force to tackle coronavirus threat

● The Delhi government has formed a task force to monitor & tackle the emerging situation due
to novel coronavirus
● It requested people not to panic.
1.26 Google announces its plans to open Delhi Cloud Region

● Recently, Google has announced plans to open the cloud region in Delhi.
● In combination with the existing Mumbai cloud region Mumbai, it will also enable in-country
disaster recovery for the customers' mission-critical applications.
● It will be made operational in 2021.
1.27 Poetry Festival begins in Kolkata

● Recently, a four-day Poetry Festival has begun in Kolkata.
● Noted Painter Jogen Chowdhury inaugurated the festival at Rabindra Sandan Complex in the
city.
1.28 Fourth Global Ayurveda Festival to be held at Kochi from May 16

● The Fourth Global Ayurveda Festival, GAF will be held at Kochi in Kerala from 16th to 20th
May.
● A curtain raiser event was organized in New Delhi this evening for the GAF.
● The theme for the five-day event is Ayurveda Medical Tourism: Actualizing India's credibility.
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1.29 IWD 2020: Thinlas Chorol sets up first women's travel company in Ladakh
● On International Women’s Day, people have used the #IWD 2020 and
#BetiPadhaoDeshBadhao to share uplifting stories in the run up to International Women's Day.
● In line of this, a young laddakhi woman Thinlas Chorol story has surfaced who introduced
woman trekking guide in the male dominated trekking industry and set up first women's travel
company fully operated by women only.
1.30 Paytm, Hyderabad Metro tie up for QR-based tickets

● The Hyderabad Metro Rail Ltd. has partnered with Paytm to launch a QR-code based metro
ticketing system.
● It will enable commuters to travel seamlessly and avoid queue to buy tokens at the metro
station.
1.31 Coronavirus could cost airlines $113 billion in revenue in 2020: IATA
● The International air Transport Association (IATA) has predicted the global airline industry
losses up to $113 billion in revenue in 2020.
● The industry will suffer this loss due to the impact of the new coronavirus.
1.32 Aurangabad Airport renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Airport

● Recently, the State Government of Maharashtra has renamed the Aurangabad Airport of the
state as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Airport.
● The airport has been renamed after Sambhaji Maharaj, the son of Maratha warrior Chhatrapati
Shivaji Maharaj.
1.33 Chapchar Kut festival celebration begins in Mizoram

● In Mizoram, the biggest and most joyful festival of Mizos, Chapchar Kut has been celebrated
across the state.
● The Chapchar Kut is also regarded as the most popular spring festival to the people of the
state.
1.34 3 day Namaste Orchha festival begins in Madhya Pradesh

● Recently,'Namaste Orchha' festival kick-started to promote tourism by showcasing the rich
culture and history of the town.
● Orchha is famous for its Ramaraja temple as well as other historical buildings.
● The festival will also feature a food and crafts bazaar that will have local cuisine and traditional
handicrafts of the region.
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● To beautify Orchha, all the houses of the main road of Orchha have been painted with cream
color on the lines of Pink City Jaipur.
1.35 A national level Training Workshop on COVID-19 Management for all the states and hospitals
is underway in New Delhi. NDIA
● A national level Training Workshop on COVID-19 Management for all the states and hospitals
is underway in New Delhi.
● The workshop is organized by the Health Ministry to train the trainers for this purpose.
● It will give training hospitals in different aspects to tackle the situation related to Novel Corona
virus.
1.36 Jewar airport gets international recognition

● The first phase of Jewar airport has been included in the world's 100 strategic global
infrastructure projects for the year 2020.
● The airport, being built by Zurich Airport International AG, will be Asia's second largest
international airport.
● Uttar Pradesh (India) and Yugoslavia have been chosen in the field of aviation all over the
world. It has been recognised in the CG LA Infrastructure list.
1.37 TCL Electronics organises helmet awareness campaign

● Recently, to emphasize the need to wear helmets, a helmet awareness campaign called
‘Crown for Safety’ has been organized campaign in Kochi.
● It was organized jointly by the TCL Electronics and Kerala Police.
● TCL supports this campaign to reduce the number of casualties that die in road accident.
1.38 Aircraft museum to come up at Kakinada

● An aircraft museum would be set up at Kakinada by the AP Tourism Development Corporation.
● A decommissioned TU 142 aircraft will be converted into a museum for public viewing on the
beach of Kakinada.
1.39 Conference on Women in Police and CAPFs held in New Delhi

● Recently, the National Conference on Women in Police and CAPFs has been organized by the
Bureau of Police Research and Development, the BPR&D.
● The main objective of the National Conference was to discuss and deliberate on the following
2 (two) themes:
a. Cyber Stalking and Bullying of Women : Steps for Protection
b. Challenges faced by CAPF Women in Operational Areas
● To commemorate this event, Women and Child Development Minister Smriti Irani released
a hand-out – “BPR&D Mirror – Gender Bender”.
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1.40 Conference on Empowering Women Entrepreneurs 2020 inaugurated
● Recently, a conference called “Conference on Empowering Women Entrepreneurs 2020’’ has
been organised by the Ministry of MSME in collaboration with various industry associations
like FICCI, CII and India SME Forum.
● A panel discussion on “creating a conducive business Eco System for Empowering Women
Entrepreneurs’ was also arranged.
● More than 300 women entrepreneurs has participated in the conference.
1.41 Twitter launches special emoji ‘#EveryWoman’ to celebrate International Women’s Day
● To celebrate International Women’s Day 2020, micro-blogging site Twitter has launched a
special emoji with the hashtag ‘#EveryWoman’.
1.42 Railways conducts 10-day gender equality campaign

• As a part of International Women’s Day (IWD 2020), Indian Railways has conducted a ten-day
long gender equality campaign.
• Theme: #EachforEqual
• It was organised to signify that collectively each one of us can help create a gender equal world.
• Railway is also focussing on #SheInspiresUs highlighting the inspiring stories of women
achievers.
1.43 Ranchi launches its own Community Radio Station

• Recently, University of Ranchi has launched its own community Radio Station- RADIO
KHANCHI 90.4 FM Aap Sabka Radio on International Women's Day.
• Ranchi University is the first-ever University in the Eastern Zone to be gifted with a Community
Radio Station by Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.
• Sponsored by - Information and Public Relations Department, Government of Jharkhand.
1.44 Online Customer Satisfaction Survey of Delhi Metro to be held

• 7th online Customer Satisfaction Survey of the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) will be
held from 9th March to 5th of April.
• The survey will be conducted by the London based Transport Strategy Centre, which manages
CoMET and NOVA benchmarking groups.
• Its objective-To know what the commuters think about various aspects of Metro operations.
1.45 3rd All- Women Post Office opens in New Delhi

• Recently, Department of Posts, Delhi Circle has opened the third all-Women Post Office in
New Delhi.
• This has been done to commemorate the International Women’s Day celebrations on 8th
March 2020.
• Other “all-Women Post Offices” of Delhi Circle-
1- Nanak Pura
2- Delhi University
3- Shastri Bhawan Sub Post Office
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1.46 Police to open ‘Hello Africa Desk’ in Bengaluru
• An exclusive grievance redressal desk for African nationals will be set up by the Bengaluru City
Police.
• It will be called as ‘Hello Africa Desk’.
• It will help to resolve the issues faced by African nationals in Bengaluru.
1.47 International film fete held

• Recently, the third edition of Quilon International Film Festival (QIFF) was held in Kollam.
• The festival had featured 21 noted films in various languages including English, Spanish,
Malayalam, Hindi and Tamil.
• Opening film- Ilai, a tamil Film.
1.48 BLive organises E-bicycling tours in the Nilgiris

• Recently, India’s first ever e-bicycling tour has taken place in nilgiris.
• Organised by – BLive, India’s first electric bike tourism venture.
1.49 World Coffee Congress held in Bengaluru

• Recently, fifth edition of the World Coffee Congress was held in Bengaluru.
• For the first time, the event has taken place in India.
• Organised by - India Coffee Trust, in association with Ministry of Commerce and other
agencies.
• Theme: ‘sustainability through consumption’
• Objective: To promote the consumption of Coffee.
1.50 Global corporate earning to drop 10% in 2020: Citigroup

• Recently, the Citigroup bank has forecasted the Global corporate earnings to be dropped by
10% in 2020.
• Reason behind this cut - The steep fall in oil prices and economic disruption due to the
coronavirus.
1.51 Mega Event of IDY 2020 to be Organised in Leh

• The main national event for the 6th International Day of Yoga (IDY) will be held on 21st June
2020 at Leh.
• The event will be led by the Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi.
• It was formally announced by the Minister of State (Independent Charge) for AYUSH, Shri
Shripad Yesso Naik.
1.52 National festival Rangadhvani 2020 to be held

• A five day national festival called Rangdhvani will began at Rangayana , Karnataka.
• The festival will take place from March 15th 2020.
• The play will feature multi-lingual plays, street plays, symposiums, art and book exhibitions,
and interactive sessions with theatre personalities. Wings India 2020 begins in Hyderabad
today
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1.53 Wings India -2020 held in Hyderabad
• Recently, a three -day civil aviation business exhibition and air show, Wings India 2020 was
held at Hyderabad.
• Organised by - Ministry of Civil Aviation and Airports Authority of India in collaboration with
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI).
• In the event, two teams – Sarang helicopter aerobatics team (Indian Air Force) and Global Stars
team (British pilots) has performed aerobatics on fixed wing aircrafts.
1.54 National Conference on Advances in Science, Agriculture & Biotechnology

• National Conference on Advances in Science, Agriculture, and Environmental &
Biotechnology (NCASAEB 2020) is going to be held at Kolhapur, Maharashtra.
• The conference aims at bringing together industrial and academic experts in the field of
science, agriculture, environmental and biotechnology under one roof.
1.55 NCRB celebrates 35th Inception Day

• Recently, National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) has celebrated its 35 th Inception Day on
March 12th.
• On this occasion, Crime Multi Agency Centre (Cri-MAC) has been launched.
• It will share information on heinous crime and other issues related to inter-state coordination.
• National Cybercrime Training Centre (NCTC) was also launched for professional quality
eLearning services on cybercrime investigation.
1.56 National Archives of India celebrated 127th Foundation Day

• Recently, National Achives of India has celebrated Its 127th Foundation Day.
• On this occasion, an exhibition on Jallianwala Bagh was also inaugurated.
• Venue – at the premises of National Archives, New Delhi.
1.57 Bharti Airtel network tops download speed: report

• Recently, broadband service analytics firm Tutela has released a report.
• According to the report, Bharti Airtel network recorded highest download speed in country,
followed by Vodafone Idea, during the August 2019-January 2020 period.
• Reliance Jio has been found to be the fastest network in the country by the Telecom Regulatory
Authority of India.
• Vodafone Idea network has the fastest upload speed.
1.58 Virus hit Iran asks IMF for aid

• Recently, Iran has sought financial assistance from the International Monetary Fund to combat
novel Coronavirus.
• Iran has not received assistance from IMF since 1962.
1.59 IGI Airport ranked world’s best in over 40 MPPA category

• Recently, Delhi Airport has been adjudged as the world's best airport in Asia pacific by the
Airports Council International's Airport Service Quality Programme (ASQ) 2019 rankings.
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• It has been ranked in the highest category of more than 40 million passengers per annum
consecutively in 2017 and 2018.
1.60 Delhi to host Conference on Agri Logistics 2020 in March

• Recently, it has been announced that New Delhi will host the Conference on Agri Logistics on
16th and 17th March 2020.
• The conference aims at discussing the needs and requirements for a comprehensive agri-
logistics framework.
1.61 Assam government to construct 33 stadiums in state

• Recently, the Assam government has announced that it will construct 33 stadiums in the
state under Uttaran scheme.
• Rs 300 crore is to be spent for the project of building the stadiums across the state.
1.62 Common Eligibility Test from 2021

• Recently, the Minister for Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions Jitendra Singh has
announced to conduct a Common Eligibility Test 2021 for railways, banks and lower levels
of Central government jobs.
• To streamline the hiring process, Centre to set up National Recruitment Agency to conduct
the online test.
1.63 HIL (India) Limited launches a Customer Payment Portal

• To promote Government of India’s vision of ‘Digital India’, Ministry of Chemical and
Fertilizers in association with Union Bank of India has launched a Customer Payment Portal.
• It will help to collect the payment from its customers through various online modes for faster
and smoother collection of dues.
1.64 Manipur CM announces scheme for welfare of sportspersons and artists

• Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has announced the biggest ever scheme for the welfare
of sports persons and artists of the State.
• These schemes are ‘Chief Minister’s Akhannaba Sanaroising gi Tengbang (CMAST)’ and Chief
Minister Artist Sing gi Tengbang (CMAT)’.
• Aim- To provide benefits to thousands of sportspersons and artistes of the State who have
brought laurels to the State and Country.
1.65 Two Odisha villages to get 'tsunami ready' tag

• Recently, two villages- Baxipali in Ganjam and Gadaharishpur of Jagatsinghpur district are
set to earn the ‘tsunami ready’ tag.
• Both villages have qualified all the 11 parameters and are slated to get the UNICEF certificate
soon.
• These two villages would be the first tsunami ready villages among 56 nations in the Indian
Ocean region.
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1.66 CSIR announces innovation awards for school children
• Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) has announced Innovation Awards for School
Children (CIASC).
• This has been announced to support scientific temperament and to encourage innovative
spirit among children.
• Eligibilty - Students of up to Class XII and below 18 years of age as on 31st January 2020 are
eligible to apply.
• The proposal would be categorized in groups such as Biotechnology, Biology, Chemistry,
Electronics and Engineering device or design.
Note - CIASC award was initiated in the year 2002 on the occasion of the World Intellectual Property
Day.
1.67 Government launched Indian Culture Portal

• Recently, the Government has launched an Indian Culture Portal to showcase information
about the rich cultural heritage of India across the globe.
• The Indian Culture Portal is available in two languages i.e. Hindi and English.
• Aim- to create awareness about both the tangible and intangible cultural heritage of India.
1.68 Bajaj Auto unveils BS VI three wheelers

• Recently, Bajaj Auto has announced the launch of BS VI range of three-wheeler commercial
vehicles across its three-wheeler brands — RE, Maxima and Maxima Cargo.
• Bajaj Auto has launched 14 BS VI-compliant products across the RE, Maxima and Maxima Cargo
brands.
• Bajaj Auto has transitioned to BS VI version for the entire three-wheeler range.
1.69 SIAM moves SC on deadline for BS-IV vehicles

• The Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers has approached the Supreme Court seeking
directions to ensure that sale and registration of BS-IV complaint is allowed till March 31, 2020.
• The move follows circulars from some State governments setting a cut-off date ranging
between February 29 and March 25, 2020, for accepting registration applications for BS-IV-
compliant vehicles.
1.70 No decision taken to stop printing of ₹2,000 notes

• Recently, the government has stated that no decision has been taken to discontinue printing
of ₹2,000 banknotes.
• The State Bank of India and Indian Bank, have issued instructions to the field functionaries to
reconfigure the ATMs for currency notes of ₹500 and ₹200 denominations.
1.71 The Hindu launches book on Swami Vivekananda

• Recently, Sri Ramakrishna Math President Swami Gautamananda has launched a book titled
‘The Monk who took India to the World’ on Swami Vivekananda brought out by The Hindu.
Note
• The first biography on Swami Vivekananda was brought out in 1933.
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1.72 Health Ministry issues toll-free number 1075 for queries on Covid-19
• Recently, the Health Ministry has issued a toll-free number 1075 for the public for inquiry
about coronavirus.
• It has also expanded the compulsory quarantine for a minimum period of 14 days for
passengers coming from or transiting through UAE, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait.
1.73 India to provide 107.01 million Nepali Rupees for three new school buildings in Nepal
• The Government of India will provide 107.01 million Nepali Rupees for three new school
buildings in Nepal.
• The schools will be constructed in Darchula, Dhanusha and Kapilvastu districts.
• The schools will be built under the India-Nepal Development Partnership program at a total
estimated cost of 73.96 million Nepali Rupees.
1.74 Various steps have been taken to promote Buddhist studies, art and culture in India
• Recently, the Ministry of Culture has taken various steps promote Buddhist studies, art and
culture in India.
• To promote the same, Arunachal Pradesh has taken over three Institutions, which have been
granted Deemed University Status by UGC :
• Nava Nalanda Mahavihara, Nalanda (NNM), Bihar
• Central Institute of Higher Tibetan Studies (CIHTS), Sarnath, Varanasi
• Central Institute of Buddhist Studies (CIBS), Leh, UT of Ladakh.
• The Ministry of Culture has also provided annual grants-in-aid to six Grantee Bodies for
promoting Buddhist Culture and Art.
1.75 Government works towards enhancing penetration of schemes in both districts of Ladakh
• Recently, the Government of India and the administration of the Union Territory of Ladakh
have been working towards enhancing penetration of 13 flagship and 44 individual
beneficiary centric schemes of Government of India.
• It will be implemented among the eligible persons/families in both the districts of Ladakh.
1.76 Binance and WazirX to set up $50 m blockchain for India fund
• Recently, Binance and WazirX has announced the setting up of a $50-million blockchain for
India fund (backed by BNB, BUSD and WRX digital assets).
• Aim-to incubate and invest in blockchain projects and start-ups focussed on solving
industrial and social problems through the use of blockchain technology.
• The fund will partner with venture funds in India that are actively investing and supporting the
blockchain ecosystem.
1.77 Inox signs agreement with Shell Energy India for LNG distribution
• Recently, Inox India has signed an agreement with Shell Energy India (SEI), for partnering and
developing the market for liquified natural gas (LNG) supply by road from Shell’s terminal at
Hazira in Gujarat.
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• The deal envisages deployment of distribution infrastructure, including logistics and receiving
facilities, at the customer end and will offer LNG access to those not connected to pipelines.
• Aim- To develope a larger market for LNG as a transport fuel, for long-haul heavy-duty trucks
and buses.
1.78 Indian Navy sets up Quarantine Facility at Visakhapatnam

• In an effort to augment Nation’s fight against the spread of CoViD-19, Indian Navy has set
up a Quarantine Camp at INS Vishwakarma in Eastern Naval Command (ENC).
• It has been made for Indian nationals being evacuated from CoViD 19 affected countries.
1.79 LWE related incidents reduce by over 38% in 2019, in comparison to 2014
• The steadfast implementation of the National Policy and Action Plan - 2015 has resulted in
consistent decline in Left Wing Extremism (LWE) related violence in the country during last
five years.
• In 2019, the number of LWE related incidents have reduced by over 38% in comparison to
2014.
• Further, the number of Security Force (SF) personnel killed in the violence has reduced from
317 in 2009 to 52 in 2019.
1.80 Pradhan Mantri Fast Track Project

• Recently, 498 ongoing Railway Projects costing Rs. 6.75 lakh crore are in different stages of
planning/sanction/execution of Pradhan Mantri Fast Track Project.
• In addition, under the Umbrella Work Projects cost Rs. 47,841 crore have been included in
Budget booklet of Financial Year 2020-21.
• The project-wise detail including cost, expenditure and outlay are available in public domain
on Indian Railways’ website.
1.81 Greenco Rating System Acknowledgement

• Recently, the GreenCo Rating, developed by Confederation of Indian Industry (CII), has been
acknowledged in India's Intended Nationally Determined Contribution (INDC) document.
• The document has been submitted to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC) in 2015.
• The Assessment and rating of major Workshops and Production Units of Indian Railways as
Green Industrial Units started with ‘GreenCo’ certification in 2016-17.
1.82 Commission for Sub-Categorisation of OBCs

• Recently, the Government has notified the latest extension of the Commission to examine
the issues of sub-categorization of Other Backward Classes, by six months, till 31st July, 2020.
• The commission has been formed to study the various Entries in the Central List of OBCs and
recommend correction of any repetitions, ambiguities, inconsistencies and errors of spelling
or transcription.
1.83 Ordnance Factories observe their 219th foundation day

• Recently, the Ordnance Factories board has observed their 219th foundation day.
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About Ordnance Factory
• The first Ordnance Factory, now known as the Gun and Shell Factory at Cossipore in Kolkata
was established on this day in 1801.
• The Ordnance Factories are a conglomerate of 41 ordnance factories under the aegis of its
corporate headquarters Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) in Kolkata.
1.84 Entry of pilgrims in Thanjavoor temple prohibited till March 31

• In Tamil Nadu, the entry of pilgrims into the internationally acclaimed Big Temple in
Thanjavoor has been prohibited till 31st of March.
• The decision has been taken on the ground of Corona virus pandemic.
1.85 ArcelorMittal, Nippon Steel sign $5.15 billion loan pact to refinance Essar Steel buy
• Recently, Japan's Nippon Steel Corp in a joint venture with ArcelorMittal has signed a $5.15
billion loan agreement with Japanese banks, including Japan Bank for International
Cooperation.
• The loan will be used to refinance their acquisition of Essar Steel India, now known as
ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel India Ltd.
1.86 Roche Diagnostics is India’s first private firm to get COVID-19 test approval
• Recently, Swiss firm Roche Diagnostics India has received the license for conducting
coronavirus tests.
• It has become the first private firm to get permission after the government decided to allow
accredited private labs to test for COVID-19.
1.87 TCS becomes most valued firm by market capitalization

• Recently, Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has become the most valued Indian firm by market
valuation by overtaking RIL.
• Tata Consultancy Services had raced past RIL to become most valued domestic firm by m-
cap.
• A heavy sell-off in the equity market since past few days has pulled down RIL’s market
valuation sharply.
1.88 TCS launches new service suite to accelerate digital integration across enterprises
• Recently, Tata Consultancy Services has launched the Business Ecosystem Integration
Services (BEIS) suite.
• It will help businesses integrate with larger ecosystems and create new customer-centric,
augmented offerings.
• TCS’ BEIS suite was conceptualised as the glue to integrate heterogeneous and often legacy
technology stacks, within the enterprise as well as outside.
• It will also facilitate seamless communication with each other and enabling collaboration
across organisations.
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1.89 ISRO to launch 36 missions including 10 earth observation satellites in 2020-21
• Recently, Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has planned 36 missions including
satellites and launch vehicles for the fiscal year 2020-21.
• ISRO will send up 10 earth observation satellites during 2020-21.
• During the current fiscal year of 2019-20, 11 out of the total targeted missions have been
completed.
1.90 Government of India measures for the promotion, publicity and conservation of Sanskrit
language
• Recently, the Government of India has taken several measures for the promotion, publicity
and conservation of Sanskrit language through Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan.
• Steps taken for Promotion of Sanskrit Language:
• The Government of India has provided financial assistance to Adarsh Sanskrit Mahavidyalayas
/ Shodha Sansthans.
• The Award of merit scholarships are given to students of Sanskrit Pathasala to College level.
• The Financial assistance to NGOs / Higher Educational Institutions of Sanskrit for various
Research Projects / Programmes has been provided.
• The retired eminent Sanskrit scholars are engaged under the Shastra Chudamani scheme for
teaching.
1.91 IUSSTF - Viterbi Program creates long-term S&T linkages between India & US
• The Viterbi Program of IUSSTF has been developed between IUSSTF and the Viterbi School
of Engineering, University of Southern California (USC).
• Under this, a total of 14 students will undertake a research internship at Viterbi School
of Engineering, University of Southern California, LA, USA.
• The Viterbi Program of IUSSTF was developed between IUSSTF and the Viterbi School of
Engineering, University of Southern California (USC).
• The program is a part of the Government’s endeavour to encourage research and
development amongst the bright young Indian minds to create long-term, sustainable, and
vibrant linkages between India and the US.
1.92 Parliamentary panel recommends govt to setup one forensic laboratory in every state
• A parliamentary panel has recommended the Ministry of Home Affairs to setup one forensic
laboratory in every state capital in the country within 2 years’ time.
• Parliamentary Standing committee on the Human Resources Development headed by Dr.
Satyanarayan Jatiya has tabled its report in the Parliament.
• Establishing a forensic laboratory would help the prosecution in building a strong case against
the offenders as with the collection of evidence the conviction rate would certainly go up.
1.93 Govt eases import restrictions for certain chemicals, aviation gasoline
• Recently, the government has removed import restrictions on certain chemicals including
zinc dross, light, heavy and full range naphtha.
• It has also allowed flying clubs to freely import aviation gasoline with certain conditions.
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• For other users, import of aviation gasoline is permitted through state trading enterprises.
1.94 Himachal govt launches Police Station Visitor Survey System and e-Night Beat Checking
System
• Recently, the Himachal Pradesh State government has launched a Police Station Visitor
Survey System and e-Night Beat Checking System for Himachal police in Shimla.
• The systems would help the Police Department in doing self-evaluation and improve the
working of Police.
1.95 Lok Sabha passes bill declaring Jamnagar ayurveda centre as ‘institution of national
importance’
• Recently, the Lok Sabha has passed a bill that will accord the Jamnagar-based Institute of
Teaching and Research in Ayurveda the status of ‘institution of national importance’.
• It has been done by clubbing the cluster of ayurveda institutes at the Gujarat Ayurveda
University campus in Jamnagar.
1.96 India to seek $70 million from World Bank for eastern waterway connectivity grid
• The Shipping Ministry will seek a technical assistance grant of $70 million from the World Bank
to build a transport connectivity grid linking waterways in the eastern region with its South
Asian neighbours.
• The World Bank may provide a grant to develop India’s under-utilized network of rivers and
canals as an alternative mode of transport.
1.97 Megalithic site found at Karayad

• Recently, a team of researchers from Kanhangad, has identified a megalithic site dating back
to 1,500 years at Karayad in Badiadka village in Kasaragod.
• Locally, it is known as the Pandava Cave.
• The site has a rock-cut chamber and such structures were built by the megalithic people as
part of their burial system.
1.98 Tamil Nadu CM announces new electric vehicle and data centre parks
• Recently, the Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu has announced a slew of measures, to attract
industrial investments.
• It includes the establishment of an electric vehicle park near Chennai, to attract industrial
investments.
• With all the basic facilities, the proposed park will have an industrial technical centre, testing
facilities, warehouse and heavy vehicle yard.
1.99 Amnesty International asks govt to restore 4G services in Kashmir

• Amnesty International India has asked the government of the Union Territory of Jammu and
Kashmir to restore uninterrupted 4G internet services.
• It will be done to ensure that people have access to health and safety-related information.
• It has urged the Centre to adopt a “rights-respecting approach” to protect public health and
restore access to 4G speed internet.
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1.100 Covid-19 casts a shadow on Census, NPR exercise
• The coronavirus pandemic has cast a shadow on the demographic census and National
Population Registry (NPR) work.
• The work on Census has almost been stopped as most of the districts have been locked down
and many States are on emergency mode.
• “The schedule has been fixed from April 1 to September 2020.
1.101 Parliament passes Central Sanskrit Universities Bill

• Recently, the Parliament has passed the Central Sanskrit Universities Bill, which seeks to
upgrade three deemed to be Sanskrit universities into central universities.
• The three deemed universities of Sanskrit which would be upgraded to central universities are
Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, Sri Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, and
Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth Tirupati.
1.102 PM greets the nation on Navroz

• Recently, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has greeted nation on the occasion of Navroz.
1.103 Export of Masks, Ventilators and textile raw material for masks and coveralls prohibited
• Recently, the export of Ventilators, Surgical/Disposable Masks (2/3 ply) and Textile raw
material used for masks and coveralls has been prohibited with immediate effect.
• All other items except surgical/disposable (2/3 ply) masks has been allowed to export.
1.104 RFID tagging for coaches and wagons

• Recently, the government has sanctioned a project named “Automated Rolling Stock Track
& Trace System using Radio Frequency Identification (RFID)”.
• It will be implemented by Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS).
• CRIS has designed the RFID tags as per the requirement of Indian Railways.
1.105 India’s population reached 1.36 billion in mid 2019

• Recently, Government has informed that as per the ‘World Population Prospects 2019’ report,
India’s population has reached 1.36 billion (136 crore) in mid 2019.
• It makes India the second most populous country in the world.
1.106 ICMR received complaints against mis use of stem cell therapy
• Recently, Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has received several complaints against
the misuse of stem cell therapy.
• The National Apex Committee for Stem Cell Research and Therapy (NAC-SCRT) will evaluate
the complaints and recommend action against the complaints.
1.107 Cabinet approves signing and ratifying of the Extradition Treaty between India and Belgium
• Recently, the Union Cabinet has approved the signing and ratifying of the Extradition Treaty
between the Republic of India and the Kingdom of Belgium.
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• The Extradition Treaty will enable the two countries to repatriate any person found in its
territory, who is accused or convicted in an extraditable offence in the territory of the other
Party.
• Chaired by -Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi.
1.108 AIIMS Bibinagar to be completed by Sept 2022

• The newly inaugurated All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) at Bibinagar, Telangana
will start serving people with all facilities by 2022.
• The Union government has released ₹ 5 crore so far for the All India Institute of Medical
Sciences.
Note
• The set up of AIIMS has been made under the Pradhan Mantri Swathya Suraksha Yojna
(PMSSY).
1.109 Indian Oil becomes first firm to begin supply of BS-VI fuel in country
• India’s biggest oil firm, Indian Oil Corp (IOC), has successfully rolled out the supply of BS-VI
grade fuel across the country.
• Indian Oil Corporation has become first company to begin supply of BS-VI fuel across it petrol
pumps.
• The government has set April 1 as the deadline for starting supply of Euro-VI emission
compliant fuels.
About IOC
• Chairman of Indian IOC: Sanjiv Singh
• Headquarters- New Delhi
1.110 PM lauds singers for coronavirus themed songs

• Recently, Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi has lauded singers Malini Awasthi and Pritam
Bhartwan for coronavirus-themed songs.
• The Prime Minister has praised the media fraternity for disseminating proper information and
taking proper precautions.
• The Prime Minister has urged people to be a part of the 'Janta Curfew' as it will add
tremendous strength to the fight against COVID-19 menace.
1.111 MyGov Corona Helpdesk launched on Whatsapp to provide COVID-19 information

• Recently, the Central Government has launched an official chatbot on popular instant
messaging application WhatsApp.
• The WhatsApp Chatbot is named MyGov Corona Helpdesk and is available to all WhatsApp
users.
• Objective- To mitigate the circulation of fake news and the spreading of misinformation among
the masses pertaining to coronavirus.
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1.112 Youth designed zero hand touch wash basin in Ladakh
• Recently, In Ladakh, an innovative youth Tamchos Gurmet has designed a zero hand touch
wash basin and named the innovation as Infection-free tape.
• The design will be helpful for health workers and doctors especially at Isolation Wards where
Corona positives are being treated.
1.113 Reliance opens up India's first dedicated COVID-19 facility

• Recently, Sir H.N. Reliance Foundation Hospital has collaborated with the Brihanmumbai
Municipal Corporation (BMC) to set up the COVID-19 facility at Seven Hills Hospital in
Mumbai.
• Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) has also built a fully equipped isolation facility in Lodhivali,
Maharashtra.
1.114 First 'Made in India' COVID19 Test Kit to diagnose COVID-19 gets the commercial approval
• Recently, first Made in India Test Kit to diagnose COVID-19 has got the commercial approval
by the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).
Advantages of test kit
1. Costs nearly one-fourth of the current procurement cost.
2. Faster as it screens and detects the infection within 2.5 hours as compared with over 7 hours
by others.
1.115 38th district to be formed in Tamil Nadu

• Recently, Tamil Nadu has formed a new district after bifurcating the Nagappattinam district.
• The new district will be headquartered at Mayiladuthurai, in the middle of the Delta region.
• It will be 38th district in the state.
1.116 Reliance to pay twice to those employees who earn below ₹30,000
• Recently, Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) has announced to pay twice salary to its
employees who earn below ₹30,000 per month.
• Objective- to protect their cash flow and mitigate any overwhelming financial burden due to
coronavirus outbreak.
1.117 Cabinet approves MoU between India and Germany in Railway sector
• Recently, the Union cabinet has approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed
between India and Germany for technological cooperation in Railway Sector.
• Objective- to enable cooperation in fields of freight and passenger operations, infrastructure
building and management, modern/competitive railway organization and IT solutions.
• Chaired by –PM Narendra Modi.
1.118 National Book Trust of MHRD Launches #StayHomeIndiaWithBooks initiative

• Recently, the National Book Trust of HRD Ministry has provided its select and best-selling
titles for FREE Download as part of its initiative of #StayHomeIndiaWithBooks!
• The 100+ books, in PDF format, can be downloaded from the NBT's website
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• Aim-to encourage people to read books while at home in coronavirus pandemic.
1.119 IIT Gandhinagar launches Project 'Isaac' to engage students during Corona lockdown
• Recently, Indian Institute of Technology, Gandhinagar (IITGN) has launched Project ‘Isaac’ to
engage its students in creative projects.
• Objective- to enhance student’s critical skills while they are confined to their homes because
of Corona virus.
• The project has been inspired by Sir Isaac Newton, who was similarly sent home by Trinity
College, Cambridge, because of the Great Plague of London in 1665.
1.120 Odisha set up largest coronavirus hospital in the country

• Odisha has become the first state in the country to set up a large-scale hospital exclusively to
treat Covid-19 patients
• The hospital has about 1,000 beds and is functional for public.
1.121 Grievance Redressal Cell established for food processors

• A Grievance Redressal Cell has been established by the Ministry of Food Processing
Industries.
• It has been made to ensure that problems faced by food processors, amid the nationwide
lockdown are resolved at the earliest.
• The Grievance Redressal Cell aims to ensure continuity of agro-food business.
1.122 MHRD Innovation Cell, AICTE organises Fight Corona IDEAthon

• Recently, a two day online ideathon, ‘Fight Corona IDEAthon’ was held during the lockdown.
• Organised by –It was a joint initiative launched by the MHRD Innovation Cell and AICTE, in
partnership with InnovatioCuris and Forge.
• Objective-to generate and transform innovative ideas into viable solutions that can support
the community in managing the uncertainties arising out of the pandemic.
1.123 Andhra Pradesh Police create House Quarantine mobile App to track foreign returnees
• Recently, Andhra Pradesh Police has created a new mobile application, named House
Quarantine App for suspected exposure to the virus.
• The Police Department will collect the details of foreign returnees through district dash
boards and upload their names on the APP.
• Aim- to track the movements of the foreign returnees.
1.124 Nagaland CM launches Self Declaration COVID-19 App

• Recently, Nagaland’s Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio has launched the Self Declaration COVID19
Nagaland App for tracking and surveillance of high-risk cases
• The app has been made mandatory for any person who entered Nagaland after March 6.
• Venue- Kohima, Nagaland.
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1.125 Harsh Vardhan launches National Teleconsultation Centre (CoNTeC)
• Recently, the Union Minister of Health & Family Welfare Dr. Harsh Vardhan has launched
the National Teleconsultation Centre (CoNTeC), a Telemedicine Hub.
• ConNTec is a multimodel telecommunication hub wherein expert doctors from various clinical
domains will be available 24x7 to answer the multifaceted questions from specialists from all
over the country.
• Conceptualised by- the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
• Implemented by- All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.
• Objective- To connect the Doctors across the country to AIIMS in real time for treatment of
the COVID-19 patients.
1.126 VP lauds virologist Minal Dakhave Bhosale for developing testing kit for COVID-19
• Recently, Vice President M Venkaiah Naidu has appreciated virologist Ms. Minal Dakhave
Bhosale and her team at Mylab Discovery Solutions in developing India's first testing kit for
COVID-19.
• It is a low cost kit and can test 100 samples at a time.
1.127 Dept. of Disaster Management designated as Nodal dept. for COVID-19 related procurement
in A&N Islands
• Recently, the Department of Disaster Management has been designated as Nodal
department for COVID-19 related procurement in the A&N Islands.
• The department is taking various steps to ensure procurement of medical
equipment considering the nationwide lockdown.
• Two lakh three-ply masks and 5,000 N-95 masks have been delivered at Hindon Airbase,
Gaziabad and will be airlifted with the help of A&N Command.
1.128 NGO VOICE installs hand washing point for people in premises of local taxi stand in Namchi,
Sikkim
• Recently, an NGO of Namchi named VOICE has installed a hand washing point to wash hands
for the people, in the premises of local taxi stand located within the parking plaza in Namchi,
South Sikkim.
• This idea was initiated for a greater cause by VOICE and supported by Namchi Local Taxi
Driver's Welfare Association.
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1.129 PM sets up new fund to fight virus
• Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has instituted PM-CARES Fund for donations to deal
with coronavirus crises.
• The fund will be a public charitable trust under the name of ‘Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance
and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund’.
• Chairman-Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• Members-Defence Minister, Home Minister and Finance Minister.
1.130 PM sets up new fund to fight virus

• Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has instituted PM-CARES Fund for donations to deal
with coronavirus crises.
• The fund will be a public charitable trust under the name of ‘Prime Minister’s Citizen Assistance
and Relief in Emergency Situations Fund’.
• Chairman-Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
• Members-Defence Minister, Home Minister and Finance Minister.
1.131 India to join WHO drug trial

• Recently, Indian Council of Medical Research has announced that India will soon participate
World Health Organisation (WHO)’s “Solidarity Trial”.
• Aim- to search for drugs to treat COVID-19 infection.
• It will test four different drugs or combinations and compare their effectiveness.
1.132 National Book Trust, India of MHRD to launch ‘Corona Studies Series’ book
• Recently, National Book Trust, India has launched a publishing series titled ‘Corona Studies
Series’ to document and to provide relevant reading materials for all age-groups.
About NBT
• National Book Trust, India is a national body for book publishing and book promotion under
the Ministry of Human Resource Development, Government of India.
1.133 Odisha govt to train MBBS students for COVID-19

• Recently, the Odisha government has decided to give extensive training to MBBS students
so that they can be deployed to combat the coronavirus outbreak.
• Objective-to meet the shortage of doctors to fight the coronavirus outbreak.
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1.134 Tamil Nadu: 'Modi Kitchen' begins in Kovai, Coimbatore
• A 'Modi Kitchen' with a capacity to serve 500 meals every day has started functioning in
Kovai (Coimbatore)
• The kitchen has also made arrangements to deliver food parcels within a radius of 10 kms.
• The Common Service Centre will provide the service till April 14th.
1.135 NGMA celebrates 66 years by launching virtual tour of its permanent collection.
• Recently, National Gallery of Modern Art (NGMA) has celebrated its 66th Foundation Day.
• It has launched a Virtual Tour of its permanent collection for the visitors to enjoy without
having to physically visit the Museum.
• It is for the first time that NGMA has provided the facility of virtual tour of its permanent
collection to art lovers.
• The objective is to showcase the hidden treasures of reserve collection for public amid
lockdown.
1.136 OMCs announce Ex-Gratia of Rs 5 Lakh for delivery boys and others working in LPG supply
chain for covid-19
• Recently, Oil marketing companies- IOCL, BPCL and HPCL has announced an ex-gratia
amount of Rs 5 lakh each, in the unfortunate case of demise of personnel due to the infection
and impact of Covid-19.
• Staff personnel like Show-room Staff, Godown-keepers, Mechanics and Delivery boys,
attending duty in the LPG distributorship chain has been covered under it.
• LPG being an essential commodity has been exempted from the lock-down.
1.137 New India Assurance to provide ₹50 lakh coverage to 22 lakh healthcare workers
• Recently, State-owned New India Assurance has been entrusted to provide insurance cover
of ₹50 lakh to about 22 lakh health care providers, frontliners of battle against coronavirus.
• The Insurance was a part of the ₹1.70 lakh Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan package announced.
1.138 TCS partners with CSIR to find cure for covid-19

• Recently, the life sciences division of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) Ltd has collaborated
with the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) to find a cure of Coronavirus 2’
(SARS-CoV-2).
• Objective- to design new chemical entities using artificial intelligence (AI) for treating the novel
‘Severe acute respiratory syndrome Coronavirus 2’ (SARS-CoV-2).
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1.139 Nirmala Sitharaman participates in 2nd G20 meeting of Finance Ministers
• Recently, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has participated in the 2nd Extraordinary
G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors meeting.
• The objective of the meeting was to discuss the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the global
economy and coordinate efforts in response of this global challenge.
• Hosted by-the Saudi Arabian Presidency.
• G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors during the 1st Extraordinary Virtual G20
FMCBG Meeting had decided to meet virtually on a regular basis to continue discussions on
the evolution of the COVID-19 pandemic.
1.140 Ministry of Tourism launches ‘Stranded in India’ portal

• Recently, the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India has launched a portal named
‘Stranded in India’ to disseminate information regarding the services that can be availed by
foreign tourists stuck in India.
• Aim- to act as a support network for foreign tourists stuck in various parts of the country.
1.141 MakeMyTrip launches 'Stays for Saviours' for healthcare providers

• Recently, MakeMyTrip has launched ‘Stays for Saviours’ initiative for temporary
accommodation of medical practitioners fighting covid-19.
• The initiative has been rolled out in partnership with hotel chains and independent hotels.
• Objective- to enable medical practitioners to book from over 900 hotel properties across 200
cities in India on the MakeMyTrip app.
• The rooms designated for medical staff would be utilized by the medical fraternity only.
1.142 Invest India Business Immunity Platform launched to help businesses withstand COVID-19
• Recently, Invest India, has launched The Invest India Business Immunity Platform.
• The Business Immunity Platform (BIP) is the active platform for business issue redressal,
operating 24/7, with a team of dedicated sector experts and responding to queries at the
earliest.
• Aim- to help businesses and investors get real-time updates on India’s active response to
COVID-19 (Coronavirus).
• Invest India has also announced a partnership with SIDBI (Small Industries Development Bank
of India) for responding and resolving queries for MSMEs.
1.143 SECI, NTPC to set up 10,000-MW renewable energy parks in Rajasthan

• Recently, SECI and NTPC have signed an agreement with the Rajasthan government to set
up two 5,000-MW renewable energy parks.
• This arrangement would mark first phase of 25,000 MW Ultra Mega RE Park proposed in
Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. Further, contours for setting up 25,000-MW RE Park in Khavada, Gujarat.
• Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has also issued guidelines for Complete Solarisation of
sun town, Modhera in Gujarat.
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1.144 Tamil Nadu to set up Pharmaceutical Ingredients Park
• Recently, Tamil Nadu government has announced its decision to set up an Active
Pharmaceutical Ingredients (API) Park in the state, with an investment of around Rs 770
crore amidst coronavirus outbreak.
• The state government has also announced Rs 3280 crore to support the people who are
suffering from the virus outbreak.
• Location- Cheyyar, in Thiruvannamalai district.
1.145 meTrack to monitor quarantined persons

• Recently, a Japan-based start-up founded by four Malayali youngsters has developed me Track
smart solution, ensuring real-time monitoring of the quarantined.
• meTrack was developed by the start-up over the last few weeks by tweaking their existing
solution, Assistplus, after COVID-19
• meTrack enables health authorities to track and locate quarantined people with the help of a
smartphone application and a smart-band.
1.146 First ‘Made in India’ Test Kit for COVID-19 by Mylab Gets Commercial Approval from CDSCO
• Recently, Mylab kit for COVID-19 has become first ''Made in India'' kit that has received
commercial approval from CDSCO.
• It has been named as ‘Mylab Patho Detect COVID-19 Qualitative PCR kit.
• It has been made according to the WHO/CDC guidelines.
• Mylab's COVID-19 test kit screens & detects the infection within 2.5 hours as compared with
over 7 hours taken by current protocols
• The testing kit by Mylab would cost nearly one-fourth of the current procurement cost.
International news
1.147 Mahyiddin Yasin sworn in as Malaysia’s Prime Minister
● Recently, Muhyiddin Yasin has sworn in as the Prime Minister of Malaysia.
● He succeeds Mahathir Mohamad, who has resigned in february 2020.
About Malaysia
● Capital: Kuala Lumpur
● Currency: Malaysian Ringgit
1.148 Luxembourg becomes first country to make public transport free

● Recently, Luxembourg has become the first country in the world to make all form of public
transport free.
● The social measure has been taken to tackle road congestion and pollution, as well as to
support low earners.
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1.149 Majority of promising AI startups are still based in the US: Study
● A new report from CB insights suggests the majority of promising AI startups are still based in
the US.
● Around 65 percent of the top 100 startups in the field of artificial intelligence, were based in
the US.
● The most promising startups using artificial intelligence are US-based companies working in
the fields of health care, retail and transportation.
1.150 BRAC retains its position as the top NGO of the world for the 5th consecutive year
● Bangladesh-based international development organization BRAC has retained its position as
the top NGO of the world for the 5th consecutive year.
● The rankings for 2020 were announced by the Geneva-based organization NGO Adviser.
About BRAC
● BRAC stands for Building Resources Across Communities
● It was founded by Sir Fazle Hasan Abed in 1972 immediately after Bangladesh came into
existence as an independent nation.
1.151World Health Organization declares Covid-19 as a pandemic

• Recently, World Health Organization (WHO) has characterized the new coronavirus outbreak
as a pandemic.
• WHO alarmed the countries for the spread and severity of the outbreak, along with a lack of
action taken to combat Covid-19.
1.152 Gantz chosen to form Isreal Government

• Recently, Israel’s ex-military chief Benny Gantz has been nominated to form a government in
Israel.
• Former army chief has won recommendations from 61 MPs, a razor thin majority in the 120-
member Knesset.
1.153 South Africa announces National State of Disaster over Coronavirus

• Recently, South Africa has announced a National State of Disaster.
• It has been done due to the coronavirus crisis as the number of infected people in the
country has risen.
• It is the country with the second-highest number of cases in Africa after Egypt.
1.154 India to be among Australia’s top 3 trading partners by 2035: Envoy

• Recently, the Australian Consul-General has announced that India will become the top three
trading partners for Australia by 2035.
• Currently, India is the fifth largest trading partner for Australia and bilateral trade stood at $30
billion in 2018-19.
1.155 Alibaba's Jack Ma donates masks to US

• Recently, Jack Ma has donated coronavirus test kits and face masks to the U.S.
• According to the Bloomberg Billionaires Index, Jack Ma is the wealthiest person in Asia.
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• The Jack Ma Foundation and the Alibaba Foundation has announced that they have prepared
500,000 testing kits and 1 million masks to be sent to the U.S.
• Jack Ma has joined Tech Moguls Pledging to Help Fight Coronavirus.
1.156 Philippines declares cease-fire with rebels to fight Coronavirus

• Recently, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has declared a unilateral cease-fire with
communist guerrillas to focus on fighting the coronavirus threat.
• Duterte has ordered the military and police to stop offensives against New People's Army
guerrillas during the cease-fire.
1.157 French Competition Authority slaps $1.2 billion fine on Apple

• The French Competition Authority has penalised Apple for being guilty of anti-competitive
practices within its distribution network.
• France’s anti-trust watchdog has slapped Apple with a $1.2 billion fine, as the tech giant
conspired with distributors like Tech Data and Ingram Micro to fix prices of its premium
gadgets and limit competition.
1.158 Microsoft Bing team launches COVID 19 tracker globally

• Recently, Microsoft Bing team has launched a web portal for tracking COVID-19 infections
worldwide.
• The website, accessible at bing.com/covid, provides up-to-date infection statistics for each
country.
• The Data has been aggregated from sources like the World Health Organization (WHO), the US
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the European Centre for Disease
Prevention and Control (ECDC).
1.159 Trump administration seeks $850 billion stimulus fund

• The U.S. President Donald Trump has asked the Congress to approve a massive $850 billion
emergency spending package to contain the growing economic damage from the COVID-19
pandemic.
• The measures are expected to include a payroll tax cut and $50 billion in aid to troubled U.S.
airlines hit hard by the near total shutdown in the travel industry.
1.160 Philippines becomes first country to suspend all financial markets

• Recently, the Philippine Stock Exchange has been closed indefinitely as coronavirus spreads.
• The currency and bond trading were suspended in the Philippine Stock Exchange.
• It is the first market shutdowns worldwide in response to the coronavirus, with authorities
citing risks to the safety of traders.
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1.161 Coronavirus to hit movement-driven sectors, disrupt supply chains: Moody’s
• Recently, Moody’s Investors Service has announced that global spread of new coronavirus
(COVID-19) will significantly slow economic growth.
• The slowdown will in turn amplify its financial impact on several key free movement-driven
sectors.
• Sectors reliant on trade and the free movement of people are most exposed to slowdown.
1.162 US places new leader of Islamic State group on blacklist

• Recently, the United States has placed the new leader of the Islamic State group on its
blacklist of terrorists, naming him as Amir Mohammed Abdul Rahman al-Mawli.
• Earlier, al-Mawli was named as a leader of the ultra-violent group.
1.163 Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina vows to build 'Sonar Bangla' of Mujib’s dream
• Recently, the Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has vowed to build 'Sonar Bangla'.
• Sonar Bangla is the dream country of father of nation Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s.
• She called upon the youth of the country to become worthy citizens by following the ideals of
Bangabandhu.
1.164 IMF rejects Venezuela’s $5 bn virus aid request

• Recently, the International Monetary Fund has rejected Venezuela’s request for a $5 billion
loan.
• Venezuela was seeking the loan, to cope with the onslaught of COVID-19 on the country.
• It was the country’s first loan request to the IMF since 2001.
1.165 Angela Merkel calls coronavirus 'Germany's biggest challenge since WWII'
• In an appeal, Ms Merkel urged everyone in Germany to play a part in slowing down a virus
that has raced across the globe and triggered unprecedented peace-time lockdowns.
• She said that Germany is facing its biggest challenge since the Second World War in the fight
against the Corona virus pandemic.
• Germany is among the countries worst hit by the Corona virus pandemic.
1.166 Chile declares 90-day state of catastrophe

• Recently, the Chilean President Sebastian Pinera has declared a 90-day state of catastrophe
as cases of COVID-19 mounted in the nation.
• He has given the government extraordinary powers to restrict freedom of movement and
assure food supply and basic services.
1.167 World Bank, ADB give $588 million to Pakistan to fight coronavirus pandemic
• The World Bank and the Asian Development Bank have committed to providing $588 million
to Pakistan for its emergency response to fight the coronavirus and to address the
socioeconomic impact of the pandemic.
• The World Bank would provide $238 million and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) $350
million to Pakistan in support for the COVID-19.
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1.168 US Prez Trump to hold G7 summit through video-conference
• Recently, US President Donald Trump has scrapped 2020 in-person G7 summit due to the
COVID 19 outbreak.
• The 46th G7 summit was scheduled to be held in June at Camp David, US.
• Now, the meeting will be conducted by video teleconference.
Note
• The US, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom are members of the
G7.
1.169 UN launches 2 Billion dollar response plan to fight corona
• Recently, UN Secretary General Antonio Gueterres has launched a 2 billion dollar global
humanitarian response plan.
• Aim- to fight Corona Virus in the world's poorest countries.
1.170 UAE observes Earth Hour; asks to show support for Planet Earth
• Recently, UAE governmental and non-governmental entities have observed Earth Hour from
20:30 to 21:30 (UAE time) to show their support for Planet Earth.
• UAE has observed Earth Hour in cooperation with the Dubai Supreme Council of Energy and
Emirates Nature in association with the World Wide Fund for Nature.
About Earth Hour 2020
• Theme-‘Raise your voice for nature’.
• Saturday 28th March at 8:30-9:30 pm.
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1.171 National Disinfection Prog to mitigate impact of novel coronavirus in UAE extended
• Recently, the National Disinfection Programme to mitigate the impact of novel coronavirus in
the UAE has been extended further.
• The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention and the Ministry of Interior have jointly announced
that the national sterilization programme will continue across the UAE.
1.172 Afghanistan, Maldives to contribute USD 1.2 million to SAARC Corona Emergency Fund
• Recently, Afghanistan and Maldives have pledged to contribute USD 1.2 million to the SAARC
Corona Emergency Fund.
• Also, Nepal and Bhutan have pledged to contribute nearly USD One million and USD 1, 00,000
respectively to the SAARC Corona Emergency Fund.
SAARC Corona Emergency Fund
• Proposed by –PM Narendra Modi.
• Proposed an initial offer of USD 10 million from India.
1.173 Netflix announces $100 million coronavirus relief fund

• Recently, Streaming giant Netflix has announced the launch of a $100 million relief fund, to
assist individuals of the entertainment and creative community who have been affected by
the COVID-19 pandemic.
• A majority of funds will support workers on Netflix’s production around the world.
1.174 Guinea referendum to extend President Alpha Conde’s rule

• A constitutional referendum was held in Guinea, alongside parliamentary elections.
• The new constitution would reset presidential term limits, allowing president Alpha Conde to
be elected for a third term.
• It would impose a limit of two six-year terms, up from the current two five-year terms.
1.175 Instagram launches 'Co-Watching' feature for Social distancing

• Recently, Instagram has added a new feature to enable more social activity among its users
as the world goes through lockdown to fight against the novel coronavirus outbreak.
• The feature comes along side a lot of other upgraded trappings that also include New Story
stickers suggesting social distancing and techniques to wash hands.
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1.176 G20 nations to inject $5 trillion to combat Covid-19
• Recently, the G20 nations have agreed to collectively inject $5 trillion into the world economy.
• Aim- to counteract the social, economic and financial effects of the Covid-19 pandemic.
• In a video-conference of G20 economies, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has stressed on a new
concept of globalisation that focusses on humanity and collective welfare rather than
individual interest.
• The nations have also pledged to ensure flow of medical supplies and critical agricultural
products across borders and work together to facilitate international trade.
1.177 Johnson & Johnson to begin human trials of Covid-19 vaccine by September
• Recently, American company Johnson & Johnson has informed that it will begin COVID19
vaccine human trials by September.
• It could be ready for emergency use by early next year.
• The pharmaceutical company has signed an agreement with the US government's
Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority to invest one billion dollars in
the effort.
• The team has combined a common cold virus incapable of replicating with parts of the
coronavirus, and hoped it would trigger a human immune response.
1.178 North Korea 'successfully' tests 'super-large' multiple rocket launcher

• Recently, North Korea has conducted test of super large multiple rocket launchers.
• The test firing of the two short range projectiles has been declared successful.
Appointments
1.179 Ram Nair named World Vegetable Central Region Head
● The World Vegetable Center (WorldVeg) has appointed Ramakrishnan (Ram) M Nair as the
Regional Director for its South and Central Asia operations.
● Nair also leads the WorldVeg global legume breeding programme and the International
Mungbean Improvement Network (IMIN).
1.180 Pekka Lundmark to succeed Rajiv Suri as Nokia President,CEO

● Pekka Lundmark will be the next President and CEO of Nokia.
● Pekka will succeed Rajeev Suri.
● Suri will leave his current position on August 31, 2020, and continue to serve as an advisor to
the Nokia board.
1.181 Indian-American Seema Verma named as key member of coronavirus task force in US
• Leading Indian-American health policy consultant Seema Verma has been appointed as one
of the key members of the White House Coronavirus Task Force.
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• It has been constituted by the US President Donald Trump to combat the deadly disease that
has claimed six lives in the country and infected over 90 others.
1.182 Sudhanshu Pandey takes charge as Chairman and Managing Director of MMTC
• Recently, Additional Secretary at the Department of Commerce Sudhanshu Pandey has
assumed additional charge as Chairman and Managing Director of MMTC Ltd.
• His predecessor Ved Prakash superannuated in February 2020.
1.183 Dayapatra Nevatia appointed as next COO of Mindtree

• Recently, Dayapatra Nevatia has been appointed as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the
Leading technology consulting and software services firm ‘Mindtree’.
• She has been an executive in Accenture earlier.
1.184 Facebook appoints new communications head for India

• Recently, Bipasha Chakrabarti has been appointed as a new communications head of
Facebook.
• As part of her new role as Communications Director at Facebook India, Chakrabarti will lead
the communications charter for both Facebook and Instagram in the country.
1.185 RBI Deputy Governor Vishwanathan to quit by Mar 31 over health issues
• Recently, the RBI Deputy Governor N S Vishwanathan has decided to step down by March 31
due to ill health.
• His one-year extension was to end on July 3.
1.186 Puma signs Kareena Kapoor Khan as new brand ambassador

• German sportswear brand Puma has signed Bollywood actor Kareena Kapoor Khan as its new
brand ambassador.
• The new partnership is aimed at encouraging more women to lead a fit and healthy lifestyle.
1.187 Anurag Srivastava to replace Raveesh Kumar as MEA spokesperson

• Anurag Srivastava has assumed the charge as the new spokesperson of the Ministry of External
Affairs (MEA)
• He succeeds Raveesh Kumar.
• Anurag Srivastava has earlier served as the Indian ambassador to Ethiopia and the African
Union.
1.188 Chalasani Venkat Nagesheswar gets additional charge of DMD, CFO of SBI
• Recently, Chalasani Venkat Nageswar has been given an additional charge of deputy
managing director and chief financial officer (CFO) of SBI bank.
• Currently, Chalasani Venkat Nageswar is a Deputy Managing Director of the International
Banking Group.
About SBI
• HeadQuarters: Mumbai, Maharashtra
• Tagline: A Bank of the Common Man/Pure Banking, Nothing Else
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1.189 Ajinkya Rahane appointed as Brand Ambassador of MeraKisan
• Recently, MeraKisan Private Ltd. has announced a partnership with Ajinkya Rahane.
• As part of this partnership, Ajinkya has invested and will own equity in MeraKisan.
• He has been appointed as the brand ambassador of MeraKisan.
1.190 Sunil Mehta assumes Charge as Non Executive Chairman of Yes Bank
• Recently, Sunil Mehta has assumed charge as the Non –Executive Chairman of Yes Bank.
• Prashant Kishore has been appointed as the Managing Director and Chief Executive of Yes
Bank.
• Till now, Prashant was former chief financial officer and deputy managing director of the State
Bank of India.
1.191 B L Bhat appointed as officiating chairman of NCLAT

• Recently, Govt has appointed Justice B L Bhat as officiating chairman of National Company
Law Appellate Tribunal (NCLAT).
• Justice Bhat is a former judge of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court.
• He succeeds Justice Sudhansu Jyoti Mukhopadhaya.
1.192 Baseer Ahmad Khan appointed as J&K adviser

• The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has accorded sanction to the appointment of IAS officer
Baseer Ahmad Khan, as adviser to Lt. Governor G.C Murmu
• He has been serving as a divisional commissioner of Kashmir.
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1.193 Former CJI Ranjan Gogoi nominated to Rajya Sabha
• Recently, President Ram Nath Kovind has nominated former Chief Justice of India (CJI)
Ranjan Gogoi to the Rajya Sabha.
• The vacancy was created due to the retirement of K.T.S. Tulsi.
1.194 ECI appoints Hirdesh Kumar new Chief Electoral Officer of Jammu and Kashmir
• The Election Commission of India appointed Hirdesh Kumar as the new Chief Electoral
Officer of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
• He will replace Shailendra Kumar.
1.195 BBB recommends PR Jaishankar for MD post at IIFCL

• Recently, the Banks Board Bureau (BBB) has recommended the name of PR Jaishankar for
the post of Managing Director of India Infrastructure Finance Ltd.
• He is currently the Executive Director at National Housing Bank.
1.196 Krishna Reddy quits post of Karnataka Deputy Speaker

• Recently, LM. Krishna Reddy has resigned from the post of Deputy Speaker of the Legislative
Assembly.
• Mr. Reddy was elected to the Assembly from Chintamani in Chickballapur district.
• He has resigned after the decision of BJP legislators to move a no-confidence motion against
him in the House.
1.197 Lifestyle International appoints CEO

• Recently, Lifestyle International has appointed Rishi Vasudev as the Chief Executive Officer
for Lifestyle and Home Centre.
• Lifestyle International is a part of Dubai-based hospitality conglomerate Landmark Group.
1.198 Mphasis appoints CFO

• Recently, Mphasis has appointed Manish Dugar as the Chief Financial Officer effective
• He will succeeds Suryanarayanan.
1.199 DXC Technology appoints Nachiket Sukhtankar as MD

• Recently, DXC Technology has appointed Nachiket Sukhtankar as managing director of the
company’s business operations in India.
• Mr. Sukhtankar has worked in the technology and IT services sector with TCS, Infosys and,
most recently, Accenture.
1.200 Retired Madras High Court judge appointed chairman of fee fixation committee
• Retired judge of the Madras High Court K. Venkatraman has been appointed as the
chairman of the fee fixation committee for self-financing professional colleges.
• Mr. Venkatraman is taking over the position following the death of retired Judge N.V.
Balasubramanian.
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1.201 Google ropes in Karan Bajwa to head cloud business
• In an effort to catch up with Amazon and Microsoft’s cloud computing business, Google has
appointed Karan Bajwa as Managing Director of Google Cloud in India.
• Earlier Bajwa, was a Managing Director of IBM for India and South Asia.
1.202 Pradeep Yadav is MD, Chennai Metro

• Recently, Senior IAS officer Pradeep Yadav has assumed charge as Managing Director of
Chennai Metro Rail Limited.
• Earlier he was an education secretary, to the handlooms, textiles and khadi department.
• Yadav has replaced Pankaj Kumar Bansal.
1.203 US Prez renominates Indian-American law Professor to Privacy & Civil Liberties Oversight
Board
• Recently, the US President Donald Trump has renominated a prominent Indian-American
law professor and legal expert to Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board.
• Aditya Bamzai of Virginia, has been renominated as a member.
1.204 Janani, Vrinda named in International Panel of ICC Development Umpires

• Tamil Nadu's Janani Narayanan and Vrinda Rathi of Mumbai were named in the
International Panel of ICC Development Umpires on Wednesday.
• The announcement has been made after the launch of 100% Cricket, a 12-month campaign to
build on the momentum of the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup 2020.
1.205 RBI names R Gandhi, Ananth Gopalkrishnan addl directors on YES Bank Board
• Recently, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has appointed R Gandhi and Ananth Narayan
Gopalakrishnan as additional directors to the board of private sector lender YES Bank.
• They have been appointed for a period of two years.
• Ananth Narayan Gopalakrishnan, was previously a Standard Chartered Bank's regional head
of financial markets for ASEAN and South Asia.
• Gandhi, a former deputy governor of RBI, was previously appointed to the YES Bank board as
an additional director by the RBI in May 2019 for a period of two years.
1.206 Ex-SBI chief Arundhati Bhattacharya resigns from Crisil board

• Recently, Ex-SBI chief Arundhati Bhattacharya has submitted her resignation as independent
director of the company.
• Bhattacharya has accepted a full time role as chairperson and CEO in another company.
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1.207 Kanungo reappointed as Deputy Governor at RBI
• Recently, Govt has re-appointed Shri B.P.Kanungo as Deputy Governor at Reserve Bank of
India.
• Kanungo was executive director of the RBI before being elevated to the post of deputy
governor.
1.208 Government ropes in Amitabh Bachchan to spread awareness about COVID-19

• Recently, Actor Amitabh Bachchan has been roped in by the government to spread
awareness about the novel coronavirus or COVID-19.
• Bachchan has also served as the UNICEF goodwill ambassador for the polio eradication
campaign in India in 2002 besides the face of the Gujarat tourism campaign.
1.209 Former IBM executive Karan Bajwa appointed Google Cloud India MD
• Recently, Google has appointed veteran Karan Bajwa as managing director of Google Cloud
India.
• Bajwa is a former IBM managing director for India and South Asia.
• Bajwa will replace Nitin Bawankule.
1.210 Mahindra Logistics appoints VS Parthasarathy as Chairman

• Recently, Mahindra Logistics Ltd (MLL) has appointed VS Parthasarathy as chairman and
non-executive director.
• Parthasarathy takes over from Zhooben Bhiwandiwala who stepped down as Chairman and
non-executive director of Mahindra Logistics.
1.211 ZEE appoints adman Piyush Pandey as independent director

• Recently, media and entertainment conglomerate ZEE Entertainment Enterprises Ltd has
appointed advertising veteran Piyush Pandey as independent director on its board.
• Piyush Pandey is a former executive chairman and whole-time director of Ogilvy and Mather,
India.
• He is the first ad and communications professional to be awarded the Padma Shri.
1.212 IndusInd Bank appoints Sumant Kathpalia as Managing Director and CEO
• Recently, Sumant Kathpalia has been appointed as the Managing Director and CEO of IndusInd
Bank for a period of three years.
• Kathpalia will replace Romesh Sobti.
• Kathpalia is a career banker with over three decades of experience in large multi-national
banks such as Citibank, Bank of America and ABN AMRO.
1.213 Walmart promotes Sameer Aggarwal as CEO India business
• Recently, the local arm of US retailer Walmart has promoted Sameer Aggarwal as chief
executive officer of its Best Price, Walmart stores in India.
• Aggarwal will replace Krish Iyer who will retire from his post of CEO.
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1.214 Prashant Kumar to be CEO & MD of Yes Bank
• Recently, Prashant Kishore has been appointed as the Managing Director and Chief
Executive of Yes Bank.
• Prashant is a former chief financial officer and deputy managing director of the State Bank of
India.
Persons in news
1.215 Former Indian Hockey Player ‘Balbir Singh Kullar’ passes away
● Former Indian Hockey star ‘Balbir Singh Kullar’ has passed away at the age of 77.
● He was a part of the 1968 Olympics bronze-winning team.
1.216 Veteran athletic coach Joginder Singh Saini passes away

● Recently, Veteran athletics coach and Dronacharya awardee Joginder Singh Saini has died at
the age of 90.
1.217 GE veteran Jack Welch has died

• Recently, the GE veteran, Jack Welch has passed away at the age of 84.
• He efficiently built General Electric Co. into one of the world’s largest companies.
• He became the youngest CEO in GE’s history in 1981.
1.218 Ex law Minister Hans Raj passes away

• Recently, Former Union law minister Hansraj Bhardwaj has passed away at an age of 83.
• He was former Congress Veteran.
1.219 Ashraf Ghani sworn in Afghanistan President for second term

• Recently, Ashraf Ghani has been sworn in as the new president of Afghanistan.
• Ghani succeeds Hamid Karzai in for his second term.
1.220 Mukesh Ambani losses Asia’s richest Man title

• Recently, Mukesh Ambani has lost the Asia’s richest man title, relinquishing it to Alibaba
Group Founder Jack Ma.
• RILs share prices crashed in the market due to the epidemic coronavirus and fall of Oil prices.
1.221 Raveendran and Gaurav Gupta named in WEF’s Young Global Leaders list
• Recently, World Economic Forum has announced its new list of Young Global Leaders.
• Five Indians including Byju Raveendran (CEO of Byjus) and Gaurav Gupta (CEO of Zomato) have
been named in the list.
• The WEF describes them as ‘Change Makers’.
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1.222 Nita Ambani named in Influential Women in Sports List 2020
• Nita Ambani has been named in the list of 10 most influential women in sports for 2020
alongside likes of tennis superstar Serena Williams and gymnast Simone Biles.
• She owns Mumbai Indians cricket team franchise.
1.223 Former UN Chief Perez de Cuellar passes away

• Recently, Former UN Chief Javier Perez de Cuellar has passed away.
• He was native of Peru and served as United Nations Secretary General from 1981 to 1991.
1.224 Veteran journalist Patil Puttappa dies at 99

• Recently, Veteran journalist and former Rajya Sabha member Patil Puttappa has passed away
due to age-related ailments at an age of 99.
• He was the founder-editor of weekly "Prapancha" and also edited "Navayuga". He also wrote
columns in various dailies.
1.225 Virender Sehwag begins entrepreneurial innings with sportswear store

• Recently, Former opener and cricket legend Virender Sehwag has launched his first VS Store,
a retail outlet for high-performance sportswear products, in Ahmedabad.
• Sehwag has started a new innings as an entrepreneur and launched a sportswear business
under Viru Retail Pvt Ltd.
1.226 Indian football Legend P K Banerjee passes away

• Recently, Legendary Indian footballer P K Banerjee has passed away at an age of 83.
• The 1962 Asian Games gold medallist was conferred with Arjuna, FIFA and Padamshree.
1.227 Legendary country music singer Kenny Rogers dies at 81

• Recently, legendary country music singer Kenny Rogers has passed away at an age of 81.
• Rogers won three Grammy Awards and Six CMA Awards.
• He is best known for global hits such as "Lucille", "Lady", "The Gambler" and "Islands in the
Stream".
1.228 Photojournalist T.L. Prabhakar passes away

• Recently, Special News Photographer of The Hindu T.L. Prabhakar (retd) has passed away at an
age of 79.
• He was a recipient of the Kannada Rajyotsava Award, Karnataka Patrika Academy Award, and
Karnataka Union of Working Journalists Award.
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1.229 Tamil director Viswanathan passed away
• Recently, Veteran Actor, director and stage artiste M.R. Viswanathan has passed away due to
a cardiac arrest in Chennai.
• Viswanathan is popularly known as ‘Visu’ in the Tamil film industry.
1.230 Former Real Madrid president Lorenzo Sanz dies of coronavirus

• Former Real Madrid president Lorenzo Sanz has died aged 76.
• Sanz has presided over the club between 1995 and 2000.
• Sanz has won two Champions League titles and one La Liga crown among other trophies.
1.231 Former footballer Abdul Latif passes away

• Recently, Former India midfielder Abdul Latif, has passed away at Guwahati.
• Latif was a key member of bronze medal winning team at the 1970 Bangkok Asian Games.
• He has also represented India in Asia Cup Qualifier in 1968 in Myanmar and Merdeka Cup in
1969 in Kuala Lumpur.
1.232 Shivraj Singh Chouhan returns as Madhya Pradesh CM

• Senior BJP leader and three-term Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan will take oath as Chief
Minister of Madhya Pardesh for the fourth time.
• The swearing in comes after CM Kamal Nath has resigned due to his loss of majority in the
state.
1.233Renowned artist Satish Gujral passes away

• Recently, renowned artist, painter, sculptor and writer Satish Gujral has passed away at an
age of 94.
• Gujral has designed Belgian Embassy in Delhi.
• Gujral was awarded the Padma Vibhushan.
1.234Kufos Vice-Chancellor Ramachandran passes away

• Noted fisheries scientist and Vice-Chancellor of Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean
Studies (Kufos) A Ramachandran has passed away at an age of 61.
• He was also a recipient of many national and international awards in the fisheries sector.
• He died because of cardiac arrest.
Science and Technology

1.235 Oppo claims it made India's first 5G WhatsApp call
• Recently, Oppo's R&D centre carried out the WhatsApp video call displaying 5G band and
speed, demonstrating fast movie downloads and Cloud gaming features.
• The company claims the R&D centre in Hyderabad is playing a pivotal role in development of
5G technologies.
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1.236 Chandrayaan-3 to be launched in first half of next year: Jitendra Singh
• Recently,the Union Minister for department of space Jitendra Singh has informed about the
tentative launch schedule for Chandrayaan–III .
• It will be launched in first half of 2021.
• Chandrayaan–III mission has been configured based on the lessons learnt from Chadrayaan –
II.
1.237 ARCI develops Fuel Cell Technology for Disaster Management

• Recently, the Scientists at International Advanced Research for Powder Metallurgy & New
Materials (ARCI), Hyderabad, have developed Polymer Electrolyte Membrane fuel cells
(PEMFC).
• PEMFC has a low temperature operational capability with applications in decentralized
power generation systems.
1.238 IIT Madras team develops AI-powered drone to counter rogue drones
• Recently, the Researchers at IIT Madras have developed an artificial intelligence (AI)-
powered drone that can counter ‘Rogue Drones.’
• This system can help law enforcement agencies, security services and armed forces secure
airspace over critical civilian and military installations from surveillance by rogue drones.
• It can be controlled over the Internet and the operators need to keep the drone within their
sight.
1.239 India-European Union Flagship Call on Integrated Local Energy Systems

• India-European Union Flagship Call on Integrated Local Energy Systems was announced at
India Smart Utility Week 2020.
• It aims to strengthen the cooperation in energy research and innovation, mainly in renewable
energy and its integration in the energy system
• This partnership will help in Clean Energy and Climate and more efficient and affordable to all.
1.240 IIT Madras,Rolls –Royce to collaborate for Research

• Recently, Global industrial technology company Rolls-Royce has signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with the Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT-M) for joint research
programmes.
• The company will also roll out a “Technical Higher Study Framework” to facilitate higher
education for its engineers.
1.241 11th Bengaluru INDIA Nano conference and exhibition held

• Recently, a three-day Nano conference and exhibition was held in Bengaluru.
• It has showcased technologies and products developed by academia and companies in
nanotechnology.
• Organized by - Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of Karnataka and Jawaharlal
Nehru Centre for Advanced Scientific Research (JNCASR), in association with other Govt
Institutions and corporate companies.
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1.242 IIT Bombay makes glass substrates for 5G devices
• Recently, Researchers in IIT Bombay have developed glass substrates that have significant
advantages over the conventional silicon substrates in applications such as 5G devices.
• It was supported by the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, under the
government of India’s IMPRINT initiative.
1.243 TIFR study reveals role of glucose in regulating liver functions and ageing
• A study conducted by researchers from Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, Mumbai
(TIFR) shows that glucose controls the function of SIRT1 directly.
• An enzyme ‘SIRT1’ is known to be associated with regulation of metabolic activities and also
ageing and hence has become a target of therapeutics.
• The study was published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
1.244 Australian researchers claim to find two drugs to treat coronavirus

• Recently, Australian researchers have claimed to find two drugs -- an HIV and anti-malaria
medicines -- to treat novel coronavirus which has claimed many lives.
• One of the two medications is an HIV drug, and the other is an anti-malaria drug called
chloroquine.
1.245 First human trial to evaluate vaccine against COVID-19 begins in US

• Recently, the first human trial to evaluate a candidate vaccine against coronavirus disease
2019 has begun in Seattle, US.
• The open-label trial will enroll 45 healthy adult volunteers ages 18 to 55 years over
approximately 6 weeks.
1.246 Gurgaon-based start-up launches AI-powered thermal camera for Covid-19 detection
• A Gurgaon-based start-up Staqu has launched a new thermal camera under its video
analytics platform, JARVIS.
• The latest technology will alert the system of anyone with a body temperature of above 37°C.
• It examines heat signatures directly through the cameras, enabling authorities to identify and
further inspect suspected virus carriers.
1.247 New edible freshwater fish discovered in Andhra Pradesh

• Recently, the scientists have discovered a new species of freshwater fish from the Alluri
forest of the Eastern Ghats in Visakhapatnam district of Andhra Pradesh.
• The species, small in size, has been named Parapsilorhynchus alluriensis, in recognition of the
Alluri forest, where it was found.
• The specimens were collected from the Dharamattam waterfall and the details were published
in the peer reviewed journal Zootaxa.
1.248 A key cellular mechanism in Huntington Disease unraveled

• A team of scientists from National Centre for Cell Science (NCCS) in Pune have been working
to gain insights into this by studying the HTT gene in fruit flies.
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• They observed that the pathogenic Huntingtin protein causes a decrease in the overall protein
production in cells.
• These Huntingtin clumps collect together (sequester) molecules of another protein called
Orb2, which is involved in the process of protein formation.
About Huntington disease (HD)
• Huntington disease (HD) is a progressive genetic disorder affecting the brain.
• It is caused by a mutation in a gene called HTT.
1.249 Technology Development Board invites Tech proposals for fighting COVID 19
• Recently, the Technology Development Board (TDB) has invited proposal applications from
Indian companies and enterprises to address protection and home-based respiratory
intervention for COVID-19 patients.
• The proposal may include technologically innovative solutions like low-cost masks, cost-
effective scanning devices, technologies for sanitization, rapid diagnostic kits and oxygenators,
and ventilators.
• It will also assist organizations financially with soft loans.
1.250 US FDA approves first rapid ‘point-of-care’ test for coronavirus

• Recently, The US Food and Drug Administration have approved a corona virus diagnostic test
that can be conducted entirely at the point-of-care and can deliver results in 45 minutes.
• Developed by-California-based company Cephid.
1.251 SpaceX plans first manned flight to space station in May

• Recently, SpaceX has announced that it will launch its first manned flight to the International
Space Station (ISS) in May 2020.
• The tech entrepreneur’s company will launch a Falcon 9 rocket to transport NASA astronauts
Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley in the space agency.
1.252 Microsoft, US CDC tie-up to create ‘Clara’, a COVID-19 self-screening bot

• The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has introduced an AI bot called ‘Clara’
to help people assess potential symptoms of COVID-19
• Partnered with- Microsoft Azure’s Healthcare Bot service.
• The bot is currently only available in the US on the CDC website.
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1.253 Hydroxy Chloroquine effective in stopping Novel Corona Virus infection: A study
• A group of Scientists have analysed reports from Wuhan Institute of Virology and published
a research paper in latest edition of the “The Nature” magazine.
• Scientists have reported Hydroxy Chloroquine, to be effective in stopping the growth of Novel
Corona Virus infection in laboratory conditions thus having a good potential to combat COVID-
19.
• US based FDA is yet to give approval to the use of Hydroxy Chloroquine for treatment of
COVID-19.
1.254Indian scientists reveal first microscopic image of novel coronavirus

• The first images from India of the coronavirus looks like are caught by a team of ICMR-NIV
scientists in Pune.
• The images have been captured using the transmission electron microscope imaging. They
have been published in the Indian Journal of Medical Research.
• The images of Sars-Cov-2, the virus that causes Covid-19, were taken from the throat swab of
the first laboratory confirmed case in India.
Environment in news
1.255 World Wildlife day celebrates on 3rd March
• World Wildlife Day is being celebrated on the 3rd of March every year to create awareness
about the importance of protecting wildlife.
• The theme for this year is "Sustaining all life on earth".
Significance of 2020
• The current year has been announced as bio-diversity super year because of the large number
of eco friendly initiatives being taken the world over.
• India has taken over as the President of CoP13 for Action Against Climate Change.
1.256 Workshop on “Increasing Water Use Efficiency in Industries” held

• Recently, the National Water Mission (NWM) has organized a workshop on “Increasing Water
Use Efficiency in Industries” as part of the “HarKaamDeshkeNaam” initiative.
• The Secretary, Department of Water Resources, River Development & Ganga Rejuvenation
(WR, RD & GR), Shri U.P. Singh has inaugurated the workshop.
Days in news
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1.257 Jan auashadhi Diwas observed on 7th of March
• The Jan aushadhi Diwas was observed across the country on 7th march 2020.
• On the occasion, the Prime Minister interacted with owners of Janaushadhi Kendras and
beneficieries of the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojna (PMBJP) across the
country.
1.258 World Consumers Rights Day observed on 15th of March

• World Consumer Rights Day is celebrated on the 15th of March, every year.
• Aim- to raise global awareness about consumer rights and needs.
1.259 World TB Day observed on 24 March

• World Tuberculosis Day is observed on 24th March every year.
• Aim- to raise public awareness about the devastating health, social and economic
consequences of TB, and to step up efforts to end the global epidemic.
• Theme- ‘It’s time’
1.260 World Sparrow Day observed on 20th of March

• World Sparrow Day is celebrated on the 20th of March, every year.
• The house sparrow being declared the state bird of Delhi in 2012.
• House sparrow population has been marked in the red list of the endangered species of The
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
• Aim- to raise global awareness about the bird.
• Theme- ‘I LOVE Sparrows’.
Defence in news
1.261 Pragyan Conclave 2020: Indian Army’s International Seminar Analysing Future Warfare
• Recently, a two-day Indian Army International Seminar, “PRAGYAN CONCLAVE 2020” was held
at Manekshaw Centre, New Delhi.
• It has been organized by Centre for Land Warfare Studies (CLAWS), to deliberate on the
complex subject of ‘Changing Characteristics of Land Warfare and its Impact on the Military’.
• It has two key themes:
1. Evolving Warfare: An Insight into the Changing Realm”.
2. “The Technological Revolution – A Seminal Challenge”.
1.262 Establishment of Defence corridors at Tamil Nadu

• In pursuance to the Union Budget announcement (2018-19), the government is to set up two
Defence Industrial Corridors in the Country, one in Uttar Pradesh and another in Tamil Nadu.
• It would catalyse indigenous production of defence and aerospace related items, thereby
reducing our reliance on imports and promoting export of these items to other countries
• Subsequently, five nodes for Tamil Nadu Defence Industrial Corridor, viz. Chennai, Coimbatore,
Hosur, Salem and Tiruchirapalli have been identified.
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1.263 Korean Companies in Defence Corridors
• Recently, a Roadmap for Defence Industries Cooperation between the Republic of India and
the Republic of Korea (ROK) has been exchanged in Ministry of Defence during the bilateral
meeting.
• This Roadmap lists a number of possible areas of cooperation in defence sector.
• Aim- to promote investment and technology transfer in Defence Industrial Corridors in Uttar
Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
1.264 DAC gives approval for procurement of Tejas fighter aircraft for Indian Air Force
• Recently, the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has given its approval for procurement of
83 indigenous Tejas fighter aircraft for Indian Air Force.
• This procurement will be a major boost to make in India as the aircraft is indigenously
designed.
• The Defence Acquisition Council has also accorded approval for acquisition of indigenous
Defence equipment for about 1,300 crore rupees.
1.265 ‘She inspires Us' Indian Army conducts Self Defence Training for Women
• Recently, a unit of Indian Army has organized a demonstration on Self Defence for the local
womenfolk in Nalbari District.
• It has been named as ‘She Inspires Us’
• Theme of the event - “Stronger You Stronger Society”
• It was organized as a prelude to the upcoming International Women's Day and conscious to
the increasing danger to the safety of women in our society.
1.266 Mountain Terrain Bike Expedition at Air Force Station Kasauli

• Recently, an Annual Air Force Inter-Command Mountain Terrain Bike (MTB) Competition has
been organized to promote the spirit of adventure sports amongst the air warriors.
• The event was conducted for selecting the Indian Air Force MTB Expedition team for
participating in various competitions at national and international levels.
• Venue- Air Force Station, Kasauli.
1.267 Ministry of Defence signs Rs 880 crore contract for Light Machine Guns with Israeli firm
• Recently, the Acquisition Wing of Ministry of Defence has signed the capital acquisition
contract with Israel Weapons Industries for procurement of 16,479 LMGs.
• The contracted Negev 7.62X51 mm LMG is a combat proven weapon and currently used by
several countries around the globe.
• This LMG will enhance the lethality and range of a soldier vis-a-vis the presently used
weapon.
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1.268 Defence Secretary lays foundation of Pay Accounts Office (Other Ranks) Rajputana Rifles
Regimental Centre
• Recently, Dr Ajay Kumar has laid the foundation stone for construction of the building of Pay
Accounts Office (Other Ranks) PAO (ORs), Rajputana Rifles Regimental Centre (RRRC) at Delhi
Cantt.
• He has also appreciated the digital initiatives taken by the department and automating its
activities in various areas of work.
1.269 Army team in Maldives to set up virus testing lab

• Recently, a 14-member medical team of the Indian Army has been deployed in Maldives for
setting up a testing lab for Coronavirus (COVID-19).
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has announced an initial contribution of $10mn for an
emergency fund to fight COVID-19 in the region.
• Two Indian Air Force (IAF) C-17 Globemasters were used for evacuating 112 Indian citizens
from Wuhan in China and 58 Indian citizens from Tehran, Iran.
1.270 In a first, India, France conduct joint patrols from Reunion Island
• Recently, India and France, for the first time, have conducted joint patrols from the Reunion
Island.
• Objective- to engage with friendly foreign partners in expanding its footprint in the Indian
Ocean, focusing on the stretch between the East African coastline and the Malacca straits.
• India has so far carried out Coordinated Patrols (CORPAT) only with maritime neighbours and
had rejected a similar offer by the US.
• The patrol was conducted by a P-8I aircraft with French Navy personnel.
Sports
1.271 Rafael Nadal wins Men’s Singles title at 2020 Mexican Open
• Recently, Spanish player Rafael Nadal won the Men’s Single title at the 2020 ATP Mexican
Open.
• Nadal defeated Taylor Fritz in the finals.
1.272 Rani, Vikas Krishan become first Indian boxers to qualify for Tokyo Olympics
• Recently, Vikas Krishan in 69kg category and Asian champion Pooja Rani in the 75kg category
have become the first set of Indian boxers to qualify for Tokyo Olympics 2020.
• Both boxers advanced to the semifinals of the continental qualifiers at Amman in Jordan.
• Rani secured her maiden Olympic spot while Krishan will be making his third successive
appearance at the quadrennial showpiece, scheduled in July-August.
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1.273 Australia beat India to win ICC Women's T20 World Cup
• Recently, Australia won the ICC Women's T20 World Cup for record fifth time.
• India has appeared in the world cup final for the first time.
• Australia bowled India out of 99 runs to clinch the final by 85 runs.
1.274 Manpreet and Rani bag player of the Year Award

• Recently, Manpreet Singh and Rani Rampal won the hockey India player of the year award.
• The upcoming players of the year — Vivek Sagar Prasad and Lalremsiami
• Harbinder Singh was honoured for his lifetime contribution to the game.
1.275 Tiger Woods to be inducted into World Gold Hall of Fame in 2021 class
• American golfer Tiger Woods will be inducted into the World Golf Hall of Fame as part of the
class of 2021.
• Woods will be inducted in the male competitor category.
1.276 Indian boxers bag six gold at Golden Girl Championship in Sweden
• Recently, India's junior youth in boxing dominated the ring at the Golden Girl Championship
which was held in Boras, Sweden.
• They claimed 14 medals, including six golds.
• Haryana's Prachi Dhankar playing in the junior category, won the 'Best Boxer' award.
1.277 Saurashtra wins maiden Ranji Trophy title

• Recently, Saurashtra won their maiden Ranji trophy title against Bengal.
• Jaydev Unadkat led the Saurashtra team.
1.278 ICC Test rankings: India retains top spot, Bumrah in top 10 bowlers list
● Recently, ICC Test Rankings has been released in which India cricket team retained its number
one spot.
Batsmen
● Captain Virat Kohli remained static at second in the ICC rankings.
Bowlers
● Among bowlers, Tim Southee's jumped to 4th spot.
● Jasprit Bumrah and Trent Boult placed at seventh and ninth positions respectively.
1.279 FIH World Rankings: India men's hockey team achieve all-time high 4th rank
● Recently, the FIH World Rankings has been released in which the Indian men's hockey team
has climbed to the fourth position.
● It is their highest ranking since the inception of FIH world rankings.
● India dismantled Olympic champions Argentina, who dropped to fifth place
● Belgium wrestle the top spot after defeating Australia followed by Australia and the
Netherlands.
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1.280 Shafali Verma at top spot in ICC women's T20I rankings
● Shafali Verma has gained the top spot in the ICC women's T20 International rankings, riding
on her stellar run at the ongoing World Cup.
● She has become only the second India batter after Mithali Raj to top the women's T20
International rankings.
● The 16-year-old Shafali has replaced New Zealand's Suzie Bates, who had been at the top of
batting charts since October 2018
1.281 Former India spinner Sunil Joshi named BCCI’s selection committee chairman
• Former India spinner Sunil Joshi has been named as the chairman of the national selection
panel by the BCCI's Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC).
• The CAC has also picked ex-pacer Harvinder Singh for a place in the five-member group.
1.282 Mumbai set to host International Olympic Committee session in 2023

• Mumbai will hold the 2023 International Olympic Committee's session.
• This will be the second-ever IOC session to be held in India after a long gap of 37 years.
• India last hosted an IOC session way back in 1983 in New Delhi
1.283 Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) 2019 function held in New Delhi
• Recently, the 4th edition of Times of India Sports Awards (TOIASA) has been organised in
Delhi.
• PV Sindhu was named as the Sportsperson of the Year in the event.
• Sindhu bagged a hat-trick of awards when she was named as the Badminton Player of the Year
in female category, while B Sai Praneeth got the recognition among male shuttlers.
• List of Winners of Times of India Sports Awards (TOISA) 2019:
S.no. Award Winner

1. Sports person of the Year PV Sindhu
2. Lifetime Achievement Award Bhaichung Bhutia
3. Icon of the Century Balbir Singh Sr
4. Mentor of the Year Pullela Gopichand
5. Coach of the Year Jaspal Rana
6. Recognition among male boxers Amit Panghal
7. Recognition among female boxers Lovina Borgohain
1.284 First ever Khelo India Winter Games begin at Gulmarg in Kashmir
• Recently, a five-day Khelo India Winter games has been organised at Gulmarg, Jammu and
Kashmir.
• During the event, the competitions in the sports disciplines like snow skiing, snowboarding,
snow shoeing, ski mountaineering and snow baseball would be held.
• More than 900 sports persons participated in this event.
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1.285 Taiwan's Tai Tzu Ying clinches her third women's singles title of All England Championships
• Recently, Taiwan's shuttler Tai Tzu Ying clinched her third women's singles title of the All
England Championships.
• England Championships was held at Birmingham in United Kingdom.
1.286 Euro-2020 football tournament postponed by one year due to COVID-19 threat
• Recently, the Euro-2020 football tournament has been postponed by one year until 2021
because of the Coronavirus pandemic.
• The tournament was due to take place from 12th June to 12th of July this year at 12 venues
across Europe.
1.287 Cricket Australia planning to host men's T20 World Cup as per schedule
• Recently, Cricket Australia has planned to host the men's T20 World Cup as per schedule in
October despite the COVID-19 pandemic causing a collapse of sports events worldwide.
• The men's T20 World Cup is slated to begin with the pre-qualifiers from October 18-23
followed by the main 12-team competition from October 24.
1.288 PCB postpones Pakistan Super League amid COVID-19 pandemic

• Recently, the Pakistan Cricket Board has postponed the remainder of its premier T20 event -
the Pakistan Super League - amid the global COVID-19 pandemic.
• The PSL had entered the knockout stages and semifinal matches were due to be played in
Lahore.
1.289French Open tennis tournament postponed till September

• Recently, the French Open Tennis has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
• It has been rescheduled from20th September to 4th October.
1.290 Coronavirus: Athletics Federation of India cancels Indian GP Grand Prix

• Recently, the Athletics Federation of India has cancelled the Indian Grand Prix hours before
it was to begin, in view of the COVID 19 outbreaks.
• The event was scheduled to be held at National Institute of Sports, Patiala.
1.291 Tokyo Olympics postponed to 2021

• Recently, the 2020 Summer Olympic Games scheduled to open in Tokyo on July 24 th have
been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
• The games will be rescheduled to 2021.
• It is the first time in 124- year of modern history that the Olympics have been moved or delayed
during peacetime.
1.292 India's first-ever day-night Test at Eden Garden viewed by 43 million

• Recently, the BARC has informed that the first-ever pink ball Test in the country between India
and Bangladesh last November was viewed by 43 million people and clocked 2 billion viewing
minutes.
• It was also the highest viewership for a first day of any Test match played over 2018-19.
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About BARC
• The Broadcast Audience Research Council (BARC) is a joint industry body founded by
stakeholder bodies that represents Broadcasters, advertisers, and advertising & Media
Agenices.
Banking
1.293 RBL Bank, Zomato and Mastercard partner to launch co-branded credit cards
• Recently, RBL bank and Mastercard ink partnership with online food ordering and delivery
app Zomato to launch of a co-branded credit.
• It aims to help the online food delivery platform further cement its position in India's dining
market by offering benefits.
About RBL Bank
• Headquarter – Mumbai
• Tagline - Apno ka Bank
1.294 ICICI Prudential AMC ties up Saraswat Co-op Bank to tap rural potential
• Recently, ICICI Prudential AMC has tied up with Saraswat Co-operative Bank to distribute its
products with the bank’s customers.
• This tie-up aims to increase its footprint, especially in smaller towns and cities and leverage on
the bank’s over 100-year of presence in the country.
• Saraswat Co-operative Bank is the largest in the urban co-operative banking space in India.
1.295 Paytm Payments Bank has best technology for UPI payments: Report
• Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has recently released a scorecard for the
month of January 2020.
• The report shows that Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL) has scored a higher success rate of
UPI transactions than most major banks.
• PPBL has the lowest technical decline at 0.02%.
1.296 SBI scraps minimum monthly balance requirement

• State Bank of India (SBI) has waived off the requirement of holding Average Monthly Balance
(AMB) for all savings bank (SB) accounts and cut the interest rate on these accounts to 3 per
cent from 3.25 per cent.
• It has also waived off SMS charges levied on a quarterly basis.
1.297 BSNL, SBI partner to launch UPI-based payment platform

• Recently, BSNL in collaboration with State Bank of India has launched a UPI-based payment
platform named Bharat InstaPay.
• Bharat InstaPay will help its customers to do digital transactions on a real-time basis.
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1.298 MSDE launches Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship programme
• Recently, the Union Minister for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Dr. Mahendra Nath
Pandey has launched the Mahatma Gandhi National Fellowship programme in the Indian
Institute of Management, Bangalore.
• It was launched as part of the SANKALP programme of the ministry to provide skilled
manpower for District Skill Committees to prepare the District Skill Development plan.
1.299 HDFC to hold 7.97% stake in Yes Bank for ₹1,000 crore infusion
• Mortgage lender HDFC is to pick up 7.97 per cent stake in Yes Bank for a ₹1,000 crore capital
infusion in the cash-strapped lender.
• Yes Bank was allotted 100 crore shares of face value of Rs 2 each to the Corporation
aggregating to 7.97 percent of the post issue equality share capital of Yes Bank.
1.300 COVID-19: SBI opens emergency credit line

• The State Bank of India (SBI) has opened an emergency credit lines with a maximum limit of
₹200 crore.
• The bank will make available additional credit facilities to eligible, existing borrowers by way
of ad-hoc facilities to tide over the current crisis situation.
1.301 SBI commits 0.25% of annual profit to help fight coronavirus outbreak in India
• Recently, State Bank of India (SBI) has announced to provide 0.25% of its annual profit for
2019-20 to fight the novel coronavirus outbreak in India.
• The fund used to fight Covid-19 pandemic will be spent from CSR funds.
• The government has notified spending by companies to deal with the coronavirus outbreak as
corporate social responsibility (CSR) activity under the companies law.
1.302 ICICI Lombard, BharatPe launch COVID-19 insurance cover for shopkeepers
• Recently, BharatPe has partnered with ICICI Lombard to launch the ‘COVID-19 Protection
Insurance Cover’ for shopkeepers across India amid the coronavirus outbreak.
• The new insurance policy will help shopkeepers to get 100% of their hospitalization expenses
on diagnosed positive with COVID-19.
• It is ‘first of its kind’ sachet product by ICICI Lombard that will cover merchants.
1.303 ICICI launches WhatsApp banking

• Recently, ICICI Bank has introduced a new service for its savings account customers who are
on WhatsApp.
• Objective- to enable its retail customers to undertake a slew of banking requirements from
their home in the time coronavirus lockdown.
• Customers can check their savings account balance, last three transactions, credit card limit,
get details of pre-approved instant loan offers and block/unblock credit and debit card with
ICICI WhatsApp banking services.
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1.304 ICICI Bank gets 7.97% stake in Yes Bank
• Recently, ICICI Bank has acquired 7.97 per cent stake in Yes Bank through its ₹1,000 crore
capital infusion in the troubled private sector lender.
• ICICI Bank Ltd has acquired 100 crore equity shares pursuant to the Yes Bank Ltd
Reconstruction Scheme, 2020.
Note
• SBI is the largest investor as part of Yes Bank's rescue plan -- holds 48.21% stake at an
investment of ₹6,050 crore.
• In total, SBI will have 49 per cent stake in Yes Bank at an investment of ₹7,250 crore.
1.305 Jana SFB launches UPI QR-based loan installment payment facility
• Recently, Jana Small Finance Bank, along with the National Payment Corporation of India, has
launched a UPI QR-based loan installment payment facility for its customers.
• The move has been taken for customers to enable them to operate maximum banking services
from the safe confine of home.
About Jana Small Finance Bank
• Headquarters: Bengaluru
• Tagline: Paise ki Kadar (Value for Money)
Awards
1.306 Film critiquing Iranian death penalty wins golden Bear
● Recently, Mohammad Rasoulof’s film ‘There is No Evil’ has won Golden Bear award in Berlin
Film Festival.
● The film was based on study of capital punishment filmed in secret defiance of Iranian
government censorship.
Other Winners:
● The second-place Silver Bear –‘Never Rarely Sometimes Always’ by Eliza Hittman.
● Best director Silver Bear - Hong Sang Soo for the ‘Women Who ran’.
1.307 Central award for TSSPDCL

● Recently, the Southern Power Distribution Company of Telangana Ltd (TSSPDCL) has bagged
the “best smart grid project by a utility”award in an event held in New Delhi.
● It was given by the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA) as a part of the “Smart
City-Empowering India” awards.
● The award is given to recognise the “smart grid project” implemented by power distribution
utilities (Discoms).
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1.308 Scientists from DRDO & IIT Delhi receive Awards for Young Women Showing Excellence
● Recently, two scientists - Dr Shweta Rawat from Defence Institute of Physiology and Allied
Sciences (DIPAS), and Dr. Shalini Gupta, Department of Chemical Engineering, IIT Delhi has
been awarded with National awards for Young Women Showing Excellence.
● Dr Shweta has developed a female-specific Full Body Protector to safeguard the Female
troops deployed in riot control actions.
● This gear has been developed in collaboration with the Rapid Action Force using the ergonomic
design principle based on anthropometric dimensions specific for female troops.
1.309 Four AAI-run airports among best aerodromes

• Recently, 4 AAI-run airports have been adjudged among the best aerodromes in the world.
• Four AAI airports -- Chandigarh, Mangaluru, Trivandrum and Lucknow won 10 awards in four
different categories at the 2019 ASQ awards.
• Mangaluru International Airport (MIA) was awarded the best airport by size and region in
the category of 2-5 million passengers per year in Asia-Pacific Region.
• ASQ is a globally established programme that measures passengers' satisfaction while
travelling through an airport.
1.310 Awards for Excellence in IT in AYUSH sector announced

• Awards for Excellence in Information Technology (IT) in AYUSH Sector have been announced.
• Aim- To Promote and exchange experiences in solving problems, mitigating risks, resolving
issues and planning for success through IT initiatives and develops Information Technology in
AYUSH sector.
• Gold Awards- ayurwiki.org
• Silver Awards- ayurvedagranth asamuccayah by Central Council for Research in Ayurvedic
Sciences (CCRAS).
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2 GA + ESI in news
2.1 Ministry of HRD celebrates International Women’s Day in Schools and Colleges
[Gender Issues]
• Recently, Ministry of Human Resource and Development (HRD) has celebrated International
Women’s Day in school and Colleges across India.
• Ministry has decided to designate a girl student as class monitor under “Main Hoon Monitor”
initiative for at least half of the academic school session of the year 2020-21 and beyond.
• Self-Defence Olympiad has been organized for girls at school level on the lines of Yoga
Olympiad for imparting Self defence training to girls of class VI to XII belonging to Government
Schools.
2.2 UGC has developed Jeevan Kaushal Curriculum to upgrade life skills of undergraduate
students
[Employment Generation]
• The University Grants Commission (UGC) in September 2019 has launched a “life skills”
(Jeevan Kaushal) program in the curriculum for under-graduate courses across the country.
• The curriculum has been suggestive.
About Jeevan Kaushal Program
• UGC has constituted Expert Committee which has prepared a Curriculum for Life Skills (Jeevan
Kaushal) for Under Graduate Program.
• The curriculum is designed to impart and strengthen the knowledge, skills and dispositions
believed to be the best requisites of the current Industry and thereby empower the talent
inherent in each learner.
• The new program can be accommodated in any semester with 8 credit points.
• The curriculum covers the set of human talents acquired by an individual via classroom
learning or life experience that can help them to deal with problems encountered in day to
day life.
• It is aimed at inculcating emotional and intellectual competencies in students to develop
verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
• The program will comprise of four courses - communication, professional, leadership and
universal human values and skills and will focus on teamwork, problem-solving and decision
making.
2.3 BEE launches star rating programme for Deep Freezer and Light Commercial Air Conditioners
(LCAC)
[Sustainable Development and Environmental Issues]
• Recently, Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) has launched star rating program for Deep
Freezer and Light Commercial Air Conditioners (LCAC).
• The program will be initially launched in voluntary mode from March, 2020 to December, 2021
• It has been part of the Star Labeling Program.
• A database named Urja Dakshata Information Tool (UDIT) has also been launched on energy
e-fficiency.
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About Star Labeling Program
• It has been formulated by Bureau of Energy Efficiency under the Energy Conservation Act,
2001.
• BEE has covered 24 appliances under the program in which 10 appliances are under mandatory
regime.
About UDIT
• It is a first ever initiative undertaken by BEE with World Resources Institute (WRI).
• It is a user-friendly platform that explains the energy efficiency landscape of India across
industry, appliances, building, transport, municipal and agriculture sectors.
2.4 4.39 lakh candidates trained under Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalaya Yojana in 2
years
• Recently, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship Shri R.K. Singh has
informed that 4.39 lakh candidates have been trained under Deen Dayal Upadhyaya
Grameen Kaushalya Yojana in past 2 years.
• Out of total candidates, 84156 candidates belong to Scheduled Tribes.
• Odisha has placed maximum candidates under the scheme followed by Andhra Pradesh and
Telangana.
• Arunachal Pradesh has placed minimum candidates followed by Sikkim and Mizoram.
• He has also informed that 49.67 lakh candidates have been trained under Pradhan Mantri
Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) in past 2 years.
• Out of total 2.13 lakh candidates belong to Scheduled Tribes.
• Uttar Pradesh has placed maximum number of candidates followed by Madhya Pradesh and
Haryana.
• In terms of states Goa has placed minimum number of candidates under scheme followed by
Sikkim and Nagaland.
About DDU-GKY
• It is a part of the National Rural Livelihood Mission (NRLM)
• It has been tasked with the dual objectives of adding diversity to the incomes of rural poor
families and cater to the career aspirations of rural youth.
• Vision - “Transform rural poor youth into an economically independent and globally relevant
workforce”.
• Aim – To target youth, in the age group of 15–35 years.
• Implemented by – Ministry of Rural Development.
About PMKVY
• Objective – To enable a large number of Indian youth to take up industry-relevant skill training
that will help them in securing a better livelihood.
• Target – The scheme will cover 1 crore youth during the period 2016-20 in Phase 2 (PMKVY
2.0).
Note - Government has launched 3rd phase of Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana.
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2.5 Bill for extending upper limit of abortion to 24 weeks introduced in Lok Sabha
[Gender Issues]
• Recently, Medical Termination of Pregnancy (Amendment) Bill, 2020 has been introduced in
Lok Sabha.
• The bill has extended the upper limit for permitting abortions from 20 weeks to 24 weeks.
• It has made easier for women to safely and legally terminate an unwanted pregnancy.
• It will also help victims of rape, girls with disabilities as well as minors, who may not realize
about pregnancy.
2.6 Celebration of Janaushadhi Week from 1st to 7th March

[Social Sectors – Health]
• Recently, Janaushadhi week has been celebrated from 1st to 7th March 2020.
• Various activities like health checkup Camp, Jan Aushadhi Paricharcha, Jan Aushadhi ka sath
have been undertaken during the week.
About Janaushadhi Pariyojana
• “Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana” is a noble initiative by Department of
Pharmaceuticals
• It has made an impact on masses by providing quality medicines at an affordable price.
• Implemented by – Bureau of Pharma PSUs of India (BPPI) under Department of
Pharmaceuticals.
2.7 Fitch Solutions cuts India's economic growth forecast to 4.9% for FY20
[Measurement of Growth]
• Recently, Fitch Solutions has revised down India's economic growth to 4.9 per cent for
financial year 2019-20.
• It has earlier predicted growth at 5.1 per cent.
• It has also revised down its GDP projection of 2020-21 to 5.4% from 5.9 %.
• According to Fitch Solutions, India's real GDP growth has decelerated to 4.7 per cent in the
third quarter from 5.1 per cent in the second quarter in 2019.
2.8 OECD slashes India's growth projection as COVID-19 weighs on global growth
• Recently, Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has released a
report titled “Coronavirus: The world economy at risk".
Key Findings of the report
• Global GDP growth has been projected at 2.4% in financial year 2019-2020.
• It was earlier projected at 2.9%.
• China’s GDP has been declined to 5%.
India Specific Findings
• India’s growth has slashed down to 5.1% for 2020-21.
• It was earlier predicted at 6.2%.
• GDP Projection for 2020-21 has been reduced to 5.6% from 6.4%.
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2.9 Punjab scraps service extension policy for government employees
[Employment Generations]
• Recently, Punjab government has scrapped the policy of granting extension in service to its
employees after retirement.
• The state government has earlier reduced the retirement age of employees to 58 years from
60 years in budget of 2020.
• State cabinet has approved an amendment to the Punjab Civil Services Rules.
• According to it employees who are availing second year of extension will retire on 31st March
2020 and the employees availing first year of extension will retire on 30th September 2020.
2.10 A draft notification to limit trans-fat to be not more than 2%

• A draft notification to limit trans-fat to be not more than 2% by weight of the total oils/fats
present in the processed food products was issued in August 2019.
• Edible oils and fats are used as an ingredient in these products.
• The trans-fat has to be limited by 1st January, 2022.
Background
• According to Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives)
Regulations, 2011 limit of trans-fats should not be more than 5% for vanaspati, bakery
shortenings, bakery and industrial margarine and interesterified vegetable fats/oils.
2.11 CM Palaniswami launches Tamil Nadu Health System Reform Programme

• Recently, Tamil Nadu state government has launched Tamil Nadu Health System Reform
Programme.
• It would be implemented with funding support from the World Bank.
• Aim – To improve the quality of care, strengthening the management of non-communicable
diseases and injuries, and reducing the inequities in reproductive and child health services in
Tamil Nadu.
• It also aims at achieving result-oriented outcomes in healthcare delivery over a period of five-
years.
• The program is first Program-for-Results (PforR) project of World Bank in India and the first
for state of Tamil Nadu.
2.12 Majority of promising AI startups are still based in the US: Study
• Recently, CB Insights has conducted a study that looked at budding AI companies around the
world.
• It has considered venture capital investment, patent activity and market potential to develop
list of the companies which are most likely to succeed.
Key findings of the report
• 65% of the top 100 startups were based in the USA.
• Some startups have dual headquarters in USA and China.
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• Top ranked firms include several unicorns, or startups whose private valuations have reached
$1 billion or more.
2.13 Cabinet approves the Foreign Direct Investment policy on Civil Aviation
[Balance of Payments]
• Recently, Cabinet has approved the Foreign Direct Investment policy on Civil Aviation.
• It has permitted foreign investment upto 100% under automatic route for NRIs who are
Indian Nationals in case of Air India Ltd.
• It will pave the way for fresh investments.
Relevance
• According to FDI policy, foreign investments in Air India Ltd. including that of foreign Airline(s)
shall not exceed 49%.
• Funding either directly or indirectly has been subjected to the condition that substantial
ownership and effective control of Air India Ltd. shall continue to be vested in Indian Nationals.
• Although 100% FDI has been permitted under automatic route for NRIs in Scheduled Air
Transport Service/Domestic Scheduled Passenger Airline, it was restricted to only 49% in case
of Air India.
Background
• The government had invited expressions of interest from investors for its entire stake in Air
India in January 2020.
• It had also invited bidding for Air India’s subsidiary Air India Express, as well as 50% stake in
Air India SATS Airport Services Pvt. Ltd which is a joint venture between Air India and Singapore
Airport Terminal Services.
2.14 Dedicated Desk of Invest India for NER

• Recently, Government has proposed to set up a special dedicated desk of Invest India for
North Eastern Region.
• It will take up investment targeting, promotion, facilitation and website development for
North Eastern States.
• The facilities to be provided are as follows –
o Information provision
o Targeting support
o Facilitation support
o State training and capacity building
o Creation and structuring of state investment teams
o Advisory for states for their investment summits/roundtables
o Investors targeting support
o Website
Relevance
• A workshop on ‘Accelerating Investment and Industrial Development in the North East Region’
was organized at Guwahati in November 2019.
About Invest India
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• Invest India focuses on sector-specific investor targeting and development of new partnerships
to enable sustainable investments in India.
• It was set up in 2009.
• It is a non-profit venture under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade
(DPIIT) under Ministry of Commerce and Industry.
2.15 Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat launches Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) Phase-II
• Recently, Union Minister for Jal Shakti Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat has launched Phase II
of Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) SBM(G).
• It will be implemented from 2020-21 to 2024-25.
• It will focus on sustaining the gains made under the SBM(G) in last five years in terms of toilet
access and usage.
• It would ensure that no one is left behind.
• It has a total outlay of Rs. 1,40,881 crores.
• Solid and Liquid Waste Management (SLWM) component of Open Defecation Free (ODF) Plus,
ODF Plus, will be monitored on the basis of output-outcome indicators for four key areas –
o Plastic waste management,
o Bio-degradable solid waste management (including animal waste management),
o Greywater management and
o Fecal sludge management.
Relevance
• UNICEF and Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) has released a study titled as “Impact
of the Swachh Bharat Mission (Grameen) on the convenience, safety and self-respect of
women in rural India”.
• It has focused on the impact of the SBM(G) on rural women.
• It has indicated that the increased access to household toilets has led to the improvement in
the Suvidha, Suraksha and Swabhimaan of women in rural India.
• Key Findings
o 93% women feel safer from assault by not going out in the open to defecate
o 91% women save up to one hour of their day, earlier spent on walking to defecation sites
o 88% of women are proud to own a toilet.
2.16 Around 60 % women account holders out of 34 crore accounts opened under PMJDY
[Gender Issues]
• Recently, Government has announced that 60% of 34 crore accounts opened under Pradhan
Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana are women.
About Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
• It was launched as a part of National Mission for Financial Inclusion.
• It envisages universal access to banking facilities with at least one basic banking account for
every household, financial literacy, access to credit, insurance and pension.
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• It has provided platform for various social security schemes like Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti
Bima Yojana (PMJJBY), Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY), Atal Pension Yojana
(APY) and Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY).
• The Government in 2018 has decided to extend PMJDY program by changing the focus from
opening accounts of “every household” to “every adult”.
• Key changes made in 2018
o Over Draft (OD) limit of Rs. 5,000 has been revised to Rs. 10,000.
o No conditions attached for active PMJDY accounts availing OD upto Rs. 2,000.
o Age limit for availing OD facility has been revised to 18-65 years from 18-60 years.
o The accidental insurance cover for new RuPay card holders has been raised from Rs.1 lakh
to Rs. 2 lakh.
2.17 World Bank announces 12 bn aid package to help countries combat coronavirus outbreak
• Recently, World Bank has announced 12 billion aid package to help countries combat
coronavirus outbreak.
• The funds have been targeted to the world's poorest nations.
• It can be used for medical equipment or health services and will include expertise and policy
advice.
Relevance
• United Nations has released $15 million from its Central Emergency Response Fund (CERF) to
help fund global efforts to contain COVID-19.
2.18 India is host to 457 migratory fauna, shows latest CMS list
• Recently, Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) had for the first time compiled the list of migratory
species of India under the Conservation of Migratory Species (CMS) list.
• According to it India has 457 species of migratory animals.
2.19 Student Health Card scheme for school children launched in J&K
[Social Sector – Health]
• Recently, governor of Jammu and Kashmir has launched Student Health Card scheme.
• Aim – To ensure good health of every school going children.
• He also mentioned that parents should be made aware about the benefits of scheme.
Relevance
• Mid-Day meal scheme was launched for the needy school going children so that malnutrition
can be prevented.
2.20 Around 63 housewives committed suicide every day in 2018: NCRB data
[Gender Issues]
• According to the National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) data 63 housewives have committed
suicide everyday in 2018.
• It has accounted for 17.1% of total suicided in 2018.
Relevance
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• According to Lancet Report 2018, one third (36.6 per cent) of total suicides by women in the
world in 2016 were reported in India.
• It was 25.3 per cent in 1990.
• According to report Married Women has accounted for highest proportion of suicide in India.
2.21 States slashed capital outlay by 14% to plug fiscal deficit: Report
[Fiscal Policy]
• Recently, PRS Legislative Research has conducted a study which has revealed that states
have spent 14 per cent less capital between 2015 and 2018 than they had budgeted to meet
fiscal deficit targets.
• For financial year 2019-20 capital outlay of states has been estimated to be 2.8 per cent of
GDP (Rs 5.7 trillion).
• Centre’s capital outlay has been estimated at 1.8 per cent of GDP (Rs 3.8 trillion).
• According to study, Odisha (8 per cent), Haryana (6 per cent), Himachal Pradesh (5 per cent)
and Karnataka (2 per cent) on average have spent more on capital outlay than they have
budgeted.
• Jammu & Kashmir (51 per cent), Assam (51 per cent) and Goa (50 per cent) have spent less
than what they have budgeted.
About Capital Outlay
• Capital outlay is the component of the government's expenditure which leads to creation of
assets, such as roads and bridges, schools and hospitals.
2.22 Feb unemployment rate hits 4-month high of 7.78% as slowdown persists: CMIE
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• Recently, Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE) has released a data on unemployment
rate in India.
Key Findings of the data
• Unemployment rate has risen to 7.78% in February.
• Unemployment rate was 7.16% in January.
• It has been the highest since October 2019.
• In rural areas the unemployment rate has increased to 7.37% in February from 5.97% in
January 2020.
• In urban areas unemployment has fallen down to 8.65% in February from 9.70% in January
2020.
2.23 Centre finalises set of 31 questions to ask citizens during Census 2021
[Social Justice]
• Recently, Center has finalized set of 31 question to be asked from people during the collection
of data for Census 2021.
• The data would be collected between 1st April to 31st September 2020.
• Ministry of Home Affairs has listed 31 questions which include –
o Building number (municipal or local authority or Census number)
o Census house number
o Predominant material of floor
o Wall and roof of the Census house
o Condition of the census house
o Household number
o Total number of persons normally residing in the household
o Name of the head of the household
o Sex of the head of the household and caste of the head of household
o Ownership status of the Census house
o Number of dwelling rooms exclusively in possession of the household
o Number a married couple(s) living in the household
o Main source of drinking water and electricity, access to latrine, type of latrine,
o Wastewater outlet
o Availability of bathing facility, availability of kitchen and LPG/PNG connection
o Main fuel used for cooking
o Access to radio/transistor, television
o Access to internet, laptop/computer, telephone/mobile phone/smartphone,
bicycle/scooter/motorcycle/moped/car/van
o Main cereal consumed in the household, mobile number (for Census related
communications only)
2.24 India saw Rs 6.14 trillion, or 3% of GDP, escape tax net in 2017: Report
• Recently, Global Financial Integrity (GFI) has released a report titled "Trade-related Illicit
Financial Flows in 135 Developing Countries: 2008-2017".
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• GFI has classified illicit flows as funds which are illegally earned, transferred, and/or utilised
across an international border.
• The primary sources of illicit flows include grand corruption, commercial tax evasion, and
transnational crime.
• Five countries with the largest identified value gaps were China, followed by Mexico, India,
Russia and Poland.
• The three largest value gaps (in US dollars) were identified in electrical machinery, mineral
fuels and machinery.
India Specific Finding
• According to the report India has the third-highest trade-related illicit financial flow among
135 countries.
• India has registered the 6th largest value gap for the last six years of the ten-year period.
• It has also been ranked 6th in terms of the largest average size of the value gaps over the ten-
year period.
• India’s trade deficit stood at $83.5 billion (Rs 6.14 trillion)
• It accounts for 3.05 % of nation's gross domestic product.
• The report has identified value gaps totaling $83.5 billion for the year of 2017 and an average
sum of $77.9 billion over the ten-year period of 2008-2017 for India’s trade with all its global
trading partners.
2.25 Gross enrolments of new subscribers with ESIC were 1.49 crore during the entire financial year
2018-19
• According to National Statistics Office, Gross enrolments of new subscribers with ESIC were
1.49 crore during the entire financial year 2018-19.
• The report has been based on the payroll data of new subscribers of various social security
schemes run by ESIC, Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) and the Pension Fund
Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA).
• The report gives different perspectives on the levels of employment in the formal sector and
does not measure employment at a holistic level.
• According to it, 3.12 crore new subscribers have joined the Employees’ Provident Fund Scheme
between September 2017-December 2019.
Relevance
• Recently, Employees’ State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) has released payroll data for the
month of December 2019.
• According to the data around 12.67 lakh jobs were created in December 2019 against 14.59
lakh in November 2019.
2.26 India 5th Most Polluted Country In The World: Report

• Recently, IQAir has released World Air Quality Report 2019.
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• The report has included only PM2.5 (fine particulate matter) data as acquired from ground-
based air quality monitoring stations with high data availability.
• Top 5 polluted country – Bangladesh followed by Pakistan, Mongolia, Afghanistan and India.
• Top 5 Cleanest country – Bahamas, U.S. Virgin Islands, Iceland, Finland and Estonia
• Top 5 most polluted city – Delhi, Dhaka, Ulanbaatar, Kabul and Jakarta.
• India was the 5th most polluted country in 2019.
• India was the ranked 3rd in 2018.
• Air pollution in India has decreased in 2019 as compared to 2018.
• India was home to 21 of the world's 30 most polluted cities.
• New Delhi's average annual concentration of PM2.5 in a cubic metre of air was 98.6.
• New Delhi's toxic air has been caused by vehicle and industrial emissions, dust from building
sites, smoke from the burning of rubbish and crop residue in nearby fields.
2.27 Union HRD Minister launches UKIERI-UGC Higher Education Leadership Development
Programme for Administrators in New Delhi
[Social Sectors – Education]
• Recently, Union Minister for Human Resource Development Shri Ramesh has launched ‘Higher
Education Leadership Development Programme for Administrator’.
• It has been a joint initiative of UGC and British Council under the auspices of UK India
Education and Research Initiative (UKIERI).
• Aim – To deliver a leadership development programme for middle and senior level
administrative functionaries in Indian Universities.
2.28 Maharashtra legislature passes a bill allowing election of Sarpanch or village headman from
members of local bodies
[Social Justice]
• Recently, Maharashtra government has passed Maharashtra Village Panchayat Amendment
Bill 2020.
• The bill has allowed election of Sarpanch or village headman from members of local bodies
instead of a popular mandate.
2.29 CCEA approves Creation of National Technical Textiles Mission

• Recently, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the creation of National
Technical Textiles Mission.
• The mission has a total outlay of Rs 1480 Crore.
• Implementation Period - 2020-21 to 2023-24.
• A sub-component of the resear will focus on development of bio degradable technical textiles
materials, particularly for agro-textiles, geo-texti!es and medical textiles.
The Mission will have four components –
• Component I – Research, Innovation and Development
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o It will promote fundamental research at fibre level aiming at path breaking technological
products in Carbon Fibre, Aramid Fibre, Nylon Fibre, and Composites.
o Application based research in geo-textiles, agro-textiles, medical textiles, mobile textiles
and sports textiles and development of bio-degradable technical textiles.
• Component II – Promotion and Market Development
o The Mission will aim at average growth rate of 15-20% per annum.
o It will help in taking the level of domestic market size to 40-50 Billion USD by the year 2024.
o Indian Technical Textiles segment has been estimated at USD 16 Billion which is
approximately 6% of the USD 250 Billion global technical textiles market.
• Component III – Export Promotion
o Aims at export promotion of technical textiles enhancing from approximately Rs 14000
Crore to Rs 20000 Crore by 2021-22.
o It would help in ensuring 10% average growth in exports per year upto 2023-24.
o An Export Promotion Council for Technical Textiles would be set up for effective
coordination and promotion activities.
• Component IV – Education, Training, Skill Development
o The Mission will promote technical education at higher engineering and technology levels
related to technical textiles and its application areas covering engineering, medical,
agriculture, aquaculture and dairy segments.
Background
• India shares nearly 6% of world market size of 250 Billion USD.
• Annual average growth of the segment is 12%, as compared to 4% world average growth.
• Penetration level of technical textiles is low in India at 5-10% as against 30-70% in advanced
countries.
2.30 Smriti Zubin Irani releases book to celebrate leaders of BBBP scheme
[Gender Issue]
• Recently, Union minister of Women & Child Development has released a book which is a
compilation of 25 innovative initiatives taken at the State and District levels under Beti Bachao
Beti Padhao (BBBP) scheme.
• The book has been titled as “Chronicles of Change Champions”.
About Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Scheme
• Scheme is a comprehensive programme to address the declining Child Sex Ratio (CSR) and the
related issues of empowerment of women over a life-cycle continuum.
• It is is a tri-ministerial initiative of ministries of Women & Child Development, Human
Resource Development and Health & Family Welfare.
• Launched on - 22nd January 2015 at Panipat, Haryana
2.31 NITI Aayog organizes the Fourth Edition of the Women Transforming India Awards
[Gender Issues]
• Recently, NITI Aayog has organized the Fourth Edition of the Women Transforming India
Awards.
• The awards have been organized in collaboration with United Nations.
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• The event was launched on International Women’s Day.
• The Women Entrepreneurship Platform has been based on three pillars - Iccha Shakti, Gyan
Shakti and Karma Shakti.
2.32 Workshop-cum-Awareness Programme on Skill Development for Unorganized Workers

concludes at Kulgam
• Recently, Workshop-cum-Awareness Programme on the Skill Development for Unorganized
Workers under Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PMSYM) Scheme has taken place.
• It was concluded at Kulgam in Jammu & Kashmir.
• The workshop has informed participants about PMSYM and Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari
Mandhan (Karam Yogi) Pension Yojana (PM-LVMY).
About Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PMSYM)
• The scheme is meant for old age protection and social security of Unorganised Workers (UW)
who are mostly engaged as rickshaw pullers, street vendors, mid-day meal workers etc.
• Entry age for the scheme is between 18 and 40 years.
• Monthly Income of person should be Rs 15000 or below.
• A subscriber has been required to contribute a prescribed amount of Rs 55 to 200 rupees
depending upon the age of subscriber till the age of 60 years.
• After attaining 60 years the subscriber will receive a minimum monthly pension of 3,000
rupees.
About Pradhan Mantri Laghu Vyapari Mandhan (Karam Yogi) Pension Yojana (PM-LVMY)
• The scheme is an extension of PMSYM in which all shopkeepers, self-employed persons and
retail traders with GST turnover below Rs 1.5 crore can avail the pension benefits.
2.33 Bombay and Delhi IITs among world’s top 50 tech institutions
• Recently, QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) World University Ranking by Subject for 2020 has
released.
Key Findings of the Report
• Top three universities in Arts & Humanities - University of Oxford, Harvard University and
University of Cambridge.
• Top three universities in Engineering & Technology - Massachusetts Institute of Technology,
Stanford University and University of Cambridge
• Top three universities in Natural Science – Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Harvard
University and Stanford University
• Top three universities in Life Science and Medicine – Harvard University, University of Oxford
and University of Cambridge.
• Top three universities in Social Sciences and Management – Harvard School, London School
of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and Stanford University.
• According to the report, engineering and technology was the only major subject group where
Indian institutions were able to crack the elite top 100 tier.
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• In engineering and technology institutions – IIT-Bombay (44) and IIT-Delhi (47).
• In natural sciences - IIT-Bombay (108), Indian Institute of Science, Bangalore (111) and IIT-
Madras (195).
• In Arts and humanities - Jawaharlal Nehru University (162), Delhi University (DU) (231)
• In Social Science and Management – Delhi University (160), IIT Delhi (183)
2.34 Freedom in the World 2020 report ranks India among least free democracies
[Human Development]
• Recently, Freedom in the World 2020 report has been released by US based group Freedom
house.
• Theme - A Leaderless Struggle for Democracy.
• The report derives its methodology from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted
by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948.
• It has covered 195 countries.
• Key Indicators of the report
• Political rights - Electoral process, Political pluralism and participation and Government
functioning
• Civil liberties - freedom of expression and belief associational and organisational rights, the
rule of law and personal autonomy and individual rights.
• Top 5 countries in free category – Finland, Norway, Sweden, Netherland and Luxembourg.
• Bottom 5 countries in free category – Botswana, Peru, India, Timor Letse and Tunisia.
• Top 5 countries which have shown maximum gain in 2019 – Benin, Mozambique, Tanzania,
Bolivia and Burkina Faso.
• Top 5 countries which have shown largest decline in 2019 – Sudan, Madagascar, Ethopia,
North Macedonia and Guinea Bissau.
• India has been ranked at 83rd place in the index.
• India has been ranked as one of the world’s least free democracies.
• India has scored 34 out of 40 points in the political rights category and 37 out of 60 in the
civil liberties category with total score of 71.
• India had scored 75 point in 2018.
• The report has treated “Indian Kashmir” as a separate territory.
• It has seen its total score drop from 49 to 28 and change in status from “Partly Free” to “Not
Free”.
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2.35 Coronavirus: IMF makes available $50 bn to help emerging market countries
• Recently, International Monetary Fund (IMF) has made available about $50 billion for
helping low income and emerging market countries.
• It has provided the fund through its rapid-disbursing emergency financing facilities which could
potentially seek support to combat the spread of coronavirus.
• Out of the total fund 10 billion dollars has been made available at zero interest for the
poorest members through the rapid credit facility.
2.36 Gujarat govt announces hike in payment of Anganwadi women

[Gender Issues]
• Recently, Gujarat Government has announced the hike in payment of Anganwadi women.
• The payment of Anganwadi women would be increased by Rs. 600 per month, Tedagar and
Mini-Anganwadi workers would be increased by Rs.300 per month.
2.37 Govt plans to have at least one PMBJP Kendra in each block of country by end of 2020
[Social Sectors - Health]
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• Recently, Government has announced that it would be working towards providing at least
one Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) Kendra in each block of the
country by end of 2020.
• Government has launched PMBJP to promote affordable and quality generic medicines among
the people.
Background
• Generic medicines’ share have reached at eight per cent from two per cent in the last five
years.
2.38 2nd anniversary of Poshan Abhiyaan 'Poshan Pakhwada' being celebrated

• Recently, 2nd anniversary of Poshan Abhiyaan 'Poshan Pakhwada' has been celebrated.
• The program has focused on promoting Men for Nutrition.
• It would help in increasing male engagement in Poshan Abhiyaan to improve Nutritional
Indicators.
Relevance
• Government has informed that Tamil Nadu has topped the list of the states in terms of the
number of participants in Poshan Abhiyaan.
• As per the latest report released by NITI Aayog Andhra Pradesh has been ranked first in the
country for overall implementation of Poshan Abhiyan.
About Poshan Abhiyaan
• POSHAN stands for Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic Nutrition.
• It aims at reducing malnutrition from the country in a phased manner, through the life cycle
concept, by adopting a synergized and result-oriented approach.
• Vision – To address malnutrition with a targeted approach by 2022.
• National Nutrition Mission targets to reduce stunting, under-nutrition, anemia (among young
children, women and adolescent girls) and reduce low birth weight by 2%, 2%, 3% and 2%
per annum respectively.
• Implemented by – Ministry of Women and Child Development.
• Launched on – 8th March 2018 at Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan.
2.39 Govt to make sanitary napkin disposal bags mandatory from January 2021
[Gender Issue]
• Recently, Union Environment Minister has announced that Sanitary napkin makers will be
asked to supply a biodegradable bag with each napkin from January 2021.
• The bag would be provided so that Napkins can be wrapped in these bags before being thrown
in the garbage.
• He has also announced that the sanitation norms for Corporations and municipalities will now
be applied to villages with a population of more than three thousand.
Background
• Many women in India are getting infected because of handling used Sanitary Napkins thrown
in the garbage.
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2.40 Govt plans to create 75 lakh SHGs by 2022
[Gender Issue]
• Recently, Union Rural Development minister has informed that government has planned to
create 75 lakh Self Help Groups (SHGs) by 2022.
• It would help in enabling more women to get a livelihood.
Background
• Women’s Self Help Groups have been the backbone of poverty alleviation programs in India.
• There are over sixty lakh SHGs across the country mobilizing more than six crore seventy three
lakh women.
• Government has been providing funds and training to women for livelihood missions and
linking them with banks for easy credit flow.
2.41 India ranked 12th in women member presence on companies' board globally
[Gender Issues]
• Recently, A study titled 'Women On Board 2020' has been released.
• It was conducted by - Global recruitment platforms MyHiringClub.com and Sarkari-Naukri.info.
• The study was done online amongst 7,824 listed companies across 36 countries.
• Norway has topped the list followed by Sweden, Finland, Germany, South Africa and USA.
• India has been ranked 12th worldwide in women member presence on board.
• In India 628 listed companies have participated in study.
• Around 54% of employees in Asia and 39% in India are women.
• Only a fraction of women has made it to middle and senior management level.
• It has revealed that 55% listed companies in India have women directors.
• It was 14% higher than 2019.
• 29% of the boards have two women directors.
• 63% of the boards have only one woman director.
• The average board life of male directors than their women counterpart in India is three
years.
• It has been about two years in world.
2.42 Gujarat tops in domestic solar rooftop installations

• Recently, government has informed that Gujarat has topped the list of domestic solar
rooftop installations.
• State has an installation capacity of two-third or 64 per cent of India.
• It has been followed by Maharashtra.
2.43 UN economists forecast drop of up to 15 % in FDI worldwide due to Novel Corona virus
outbreak
[Human Development]
• Recently, United Nations Conference on Trade, Investment and Development (UNCTAD) has
forecasted drop of 15% in FDI worldwide due to outbreak of novel corona virus.
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• It has also estimated slowdown in the global economy between 0.5 and 1.5 percent depending
on whether the outbreak has reined in during the first half of 2020 or if it rages through the
end of 2020.
2.44 43rd Annual Day of the National Institute of Health & Family Welfare (NIHFW) takes place
• Recently, 43rd Annual day of the National Institute of Health & Family Welfare NIHFW) has
taken place at New Delhi.
• The conference has emphasized on the role of Ayushman Bharat and Health and Wellness
Centres.
About Ayushman Bharat
• Aim – To fulfill the vision of Health for All and Universal Health Coverage, enshrined in the
National Health Policy 2017.
• It has helped in countering public health challenges by focusing on preventive and positive
health.
• It consists of two components –
o National Health Protection Scheme - It provides coverage of up to 5 lakh rupees per
family per year for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
o Health and Wellness Centers - Under this, 1.5 lakh centres will be setup to provide
comprehensive health care, including for -communicable diseases and maternal and
child health services, apart from free essential drugs and diagnostic services.
• Implemented by - Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
2.45 Moody's slashes India's growth projection for 2020 to 5.3%

• Recently, Ratings agency Moody’s Investors Service has revised its baseline growth
projections for India from 5.4% to 5.3% in 2020.
• The projection has been slashed down due to outbreak of coronavirus.
• It had earlier reduced India’s growth projection from 6.6% to 5.4% in February 2020.
• It has reduced growth projection of G20 countries from 2.4% to 2.1% in 2020.
• It has reduced China’s growth to 4.8% from 5.2% in 2020.
2.46 FDI inflows recorded highest ever for fiscal year 2018-19
[Human Development]
• Recently, government has informed that total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) inflow was
over 318 billion US dollars between 2014 and September 2019.
• It has represented nearly 50 percent of the cumulative FDI in India since April 2000.
• In 2018-19, the FDI inflow stood at a record of 62 billion US dollars which was highest ever
recorded for a fiscal year.
Relevance
• FDI has played a key role in promoting government’s Make in India initiative.
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2.47 India was world’s second-largest arms importer in 2015-19: Report
[Balance of Payment]
• Recently, Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) has released a report
titled “Trends in international arms transfers 2019".
Key Findings of the Reporter
• World’s top five arms importers during 2015-19 - Saudi Arabia, India, Egypt, Australia and
China.
• China has been the largest supplier of arms for Pakistan.
• USA’s share has declined in supplying of arms in Pakistan.
• India has been the second largest importer of arms.
• India has been ranked as 23rd among the world’s 25 largest arms exporters.
• Russia has been the largest supplier of arms in India followed by Israel and France during
2015-19.
• Russia was also the largest importer of arms from 2010-14 followed by USA.
• The report has mentioned that India’s arms imports from both Russia and the US fell down
during the 2015-19.
• Arms imports from Israel and France has increased by 175% and 715% respectively.
• India has also acquired military hardware from other countries like –
o Denmark – Scanter 6000 radars.
o Brazil – Embraer ERJ-145 jets for a home-grown airborne early warning and control system.
o Germany – ACTAS sonar systems
o Italy – Super Rapid 76mm naval guns
o South Korea – K-9 Thunder 155mm artillery guns.
2.48 LPG scheme PM Ujjwala Yojana closed, but only 3 States have become kerosene-free
• Recently, report of the Parliamentary Committee on Petroleum has been tabled in Lok Sabha.
• According to the report only three States — Haryana, Punjab and Andhra Pradesh have
become kerosene free.
• Union Territories of Delhi, Chandigarh, Daman & Diu, Dadar & Nagar Haveli, Andaman &
Nicobar Island and Puducherry have also become kerosene-free.
About Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
• Under this scheme, LPG connections were provided to BPL families with a support of Rupees
1600 per connection.
• Aim – To safeguard the health of women & children by providing them with a clean cooking
fuel in form of LPG.
• It has helped a lot of peoples whose health in smoky kitchens or wander were unsafe due to
collection of firewood.
• Launched in – 2016.
2.49 67% of donations to national parties by unknown sources

[Indian Political System]
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• According to Association for Democratic Reforms (ADR), 67% of donations to national parties
in 2018-19 have come from “unknown sources.”
• The donations were 53% in 2017-18.
• Electoral bonds have accounted for 78% of the income from unknown sources.
• ADR has analyzed income tax returns and donation statements of the political parties.
• It has mentioned that the total income of the parties was Rs 3749.37 crore, of which Rs 951.66
crore was from known donors.
2.50 Integrated Project for Source Sustainability and Climate Resilient Rain-Fed Agriculture in
Himachal Pradesh
• Recently, Government of India, Government of Himachal Pradesh and the World Bank have
signed a USD 80 million loan agreement for state of Himachal Pradesh.
• The project has been named as “Integrated Project for Source Sustainability and Climate
Resilient Rain-Fed Agriculture”.
• It would help in improving water management practices and increase agricultural productivity
in selected Gram Panchayats (Village Councils) in Himachal Pradesh.
• The project will improve upstream water sources in forests, pastures and grasslands and
ensure sufficient water is available for sustainable agriculture both in Himachal Pradesh and
in downstream states.
Note – The project has a final maturity of 14.5 years including a grace period of five years.
2.51 First ever regional event Divya Kala Shakti takes place at Chennai
[Social Justice]
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• Recently, first ever regional event Divya Kala Shakti: Witnessing the abilities in disabilities
has taken place at Chennai.
• Organized by – National Institute for Empowerment of Persons with Multiple Disabilities
(Divyangjan) (NIEPMD), Chennai in collaboration with Department of Empowerment of
Persons with Disabilities (Divyagjan), Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• The cultural event has provided a wider and unique platform to showcase the potential of
Persons with differently abled in the field of performing art, music, dance, acrobatics etc.
• The event has brought together children and youth with differently abled from all five
Southern zone like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana and
Lakshadweep and Puducherry.
Relevance
• The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment had organized the event of similar kind at
national level between April and July 2019.
2.52 Shared economy at $2 bn by end-2020

[Human Development]
• Recently, Maple Capital Advisors has released a report titled ‘Shared Economy — India
Story’.
• The ‘shared economy’ has included segments such as co-working, co-living, shared mobility
and furniture rental.
• Asia has the highest willingness to use shared assets because of high mobile penetration, high
millennial concentration and an aspirational population.
• According to the report, the shared economy in India has been estimated to be around $2
billion industry by the end of 2020.
• In 2019 the segment was estimated to be over $1.5 billion in size in India.
2.53 EU proposes ‘right to repair’ legislation to curb e-waste

• Recently, European Union has proposed ‘right to repair’ legislation for electronic gadgets
such as mobile phones, tablets and laptops in a bid to curb e-waste.
• It would help in restricting single-use products and counter the early obsolescence of products
to enhance sustainability.
• The proposal has been part of the European Union’s (EU) circular economy action plan of
carbon neutrality by 2050.
Key highlights of the proposal
• It will revise European Union’s consumer law to ensure that consumers receive trustworthy
and relevant information on products at the point of sale.
• It should include information regarding lifespan, availability of repair services, spare parts and
repair manuals of the product.
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• Commission will strengthen consumer protection against green washing and premature
obsolescence, setting minimum requirements for sustainability labels/logos and information
tools.
Relevance
• According to the World Economic Forum’s report, EU generates 12.3 million tonnes of
electronic waste.
2.54 New Textile Policy - 2020

• Government has been formulating a New Textile Policy for overall development of the sector.
• Government in past had implemented various schemes to provide support to Textiles &
Apparel Sector such as –
1. Knitting and Knitwear Sector scheme – It will boost production in knitting and knitwear
cluster at Ludhiana, Kolkata and Tirupur.
2. Amended Technology Up-gradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS) - For technology up-gradation
of the textile industry.
3. Government has launched a special package of Rs.6000 crore in 2016 to boost investment,
employment and exports in the garmenting and made-ups sector.
o Under the package full refund is provided under Remission of State Levies (ROSL) to the
exporters for the State level taxes
4. Production linked additional incentive of 10% is provided under the Amended Technology
Up-gradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS).
5. Silk Samagra – An integrated Scheme for development of silk
6. Jute ICARE for increasing the income of farmers through different interventions
7. North East Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS) for promoting textiles industry.
8. National Handloom Development Programme
9. Comprehensive Handloom Cluster Development Scheme
10. Handloom Weaver Comprehensive Welfare Scheme
11. Yarn Supply Schemes
2.55 Losses of Electricity units not billed by States/UTs provisionally comes to 15.73 percent
• Recently, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power, New & Renewable Energy has
informed that as per the provisional data of 2018-19 made available by States/Union
Territories, the States were able to bill for only 84.27 percent of the power supplied.
• The loss in terms of units not billed has come out to be 15.73 percent.
• The reasons for such loss include technical losses, faulty meters, wrong-billing and pilferage,
etc.
2.56 Thermal Power Plants to Have 2,43,034 MW Capacity by 2021-22

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• Recently, government has informed that as per the extant National Electricity Plan, the
installed capacity of thermal power plants of the country, comprising of Coal based and Gas
& diesel based plants, is likely to be 243,037 MW in 2021-22.
• Thermal Power plants have total projected Installed Capacity of 4,79,419 MW.
• The Plant Load Factor (PLF) of Coal based capacity in 2021-22 is likely to be 56.5%.
• Government has been exploring the possibility of use of cost effective energy storage system
e.g. pumped storage hydro plant, Battery storage etc.
• It would help in storing the electricity generated during off peak period during peak period.
• It would lead to better utilization of power generation capacity of thermal power plants.
Relevance
• “Must Run Status” has been accorded to Renewable Energy projects such as Solar, wind &
Small Hydro).
• Power from such sources get dispatched on priority and has generally been fully utilized.
2.57 Industrial output grows 2% in January, highest in 6 months

[Human Development]
• Recently, National Statistics Office has released a data on India’s Industrial production.
Key findings of the data
• India's industrial production has grown at 2 per cent in January 2020.
• The growth was mainly on account of uptick in mining activity and power generation.
• Manufacturing sector output has grown by 1.5 per cent in January 2020 as compared to 1.3
per cent in January 2019.
• Electricity generation has grown by 3.1 per cent as against 0.9 per cent in January 2019.
• Mining sector has grown by 4.4 per cent in January 2020 as compared to 3.8 per cent in
January 2019.
• The consumer durables and consumer non-durables have recorded negative growth of (-) 4.0
per cent and (-) 0.3 per cent.
• Industry group ‘manufacturing of tobacco products’ have shown the highest growth of 22.8
per cent, followed by ‘manufacture of basic metals’ at 14.1 per cent and ‘manufacture of
furniture’ at 9 per cent.
• Industry group 'printing and reproduction of recorded media' has shown the highest negative
growth of 16.3 per cent followed by 'manufacture of computer, electronic and optical
products' (-) 11.6 per cent and 'manufacture of motor vehicles, trailers and semi-trailers' (-)
10.6 per cent.
2.58 India's current account deficit eases to 0.2% of GDP in December quarter
[Balance of Payments]
• Recently, RBI has released a data ‘Developments in India’s Balance of Payments during the
Third Quarter’.
Key highlights of the data
• India’s current account deficit (CAD) has reduced to USD 1.4 billion in Q3 of 2019-20.
• It has accounted for 0.2 per cent of GDP.
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• It was USD 6.5 billion (0.9 per cent of GDP) in Q2 of 2019-20.
• It stood at USD 17.7 billion (2.7 per cent of GDP) in Q3 of 2018-19.
• The contraction was primarily on account of a lower trade deficit and a rise in net services
receipts.
• Private remittances by Indians employed overseas has increased to US$ 20.6 billion in Q3
2019-20.
• It has seen a rise of 9.0 per cent from Q3 2018-19.
• In the financial account, net foreign direct investment was USD 10 billion.
• It was USD 7.3 billion in Q3 of 2018-19.
• Foreign portfolio investment recorded net inflow of $7.8 billion as against an outflow of $2.1
billion in Q3 of 2018-19 on account of net purchases in both the debt and equity market.
• CAD has narrowed down to 1% of GDP in April-December of 2019-20 from 2.6% in April-
December of 2018-19.
• It has narrowed down because of reduction in the trade deficit to $118.9 billion in April-
December 2019-20 from $145.1 billion in April-December of 2018-19.
2.59 Banks' credit grows 6.13%, deposits 9% in the second half of Feb: RBI data
[Monetary Policy]
• According to RBI, Banks credit has grown at 6.13 per cent to Rs 101.04 trillion in February
2020.
• Bank credit was Rs 95.20 trillion in March 2019.
• Deposits have expanded by 9 per cent to Rs 133.31 trillion in February 2020.
• The deposits were Rs 122.30 trillion in March 2019.
• Growth in advances to the services sector has decelerated to 8.9 per cent in January 2020 from
23.9 per cent in January 2019.
• Personal loan segment has grown by 16.9 per cent in January 2020.
• Within personal loans, credit to housing segment has grown by 17.5 per cent from 18.4 per
cent.
2.60 UP govt launches schemes for skill development & employment generation for youths
• Recently, Uttar Pradesh government has launched three schemes namely Kaushal Satrang,
Yuva Hub and apprenticeship scheme.
• Kaushal Satrang will have seven components which will provide opportunities to the youth.
• The schemes have been launched for skill development and employment generation for
youths in the state.
• The government has also announced to depute ''Arogya Mitras'' at all primary health centres
to inform people about government health schemes.
2.61 Govt brings masks and hand sanitizers under the Essential Commodities Act
• Recently, Government has notified an Order under the Essential Commodities Act to declare
masks and hand sanitizers as Essential Commodities.
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• The items have been declared essential commodities till 30th June 2020.
• The decision has been taken in response to the endemic coronavirus.
• Government had earlier held discussions with the manufacturers and ask them to enhance
production capacity of these items to make the supply chain smooth.
• Government has also issued an advisory under the Legal Metrology Act under which both
items cannot be sold above their MRP price.
• The offenders could be punished under the EC Act with an imprisonment upto 7 years or fine
or both and under the (Prevention of Blackmarketing and Maintenance of Supplies of Essential
Commodities Act) PBMMSEC Act, he can be detained for maximum of 6 months.
2.62 India’s overall exports (Merchandise and Services combined) in April-February 2019-20* are
estimated to be USD 491.64 billion
• Recently, government has informed that India’s overall exports under Merchandise and
Services combined in April-February 2019-20 are estimated to be USD 491.64 billion.
• It has seen positive growth of 2.13 per cent from April-February 2018-19.
• Overall imports in April-February 2019-20 have been estimated to be USD 559.45 billion.
• It has exhibited a negative growth of (-) 3.90 per cent than April-February 2018-19.
• Commodity group of exports showing positive growth in February 2020 over February 2019
– Electronic goods (37.05%) followed by Organics & Inorganic chemicals (16.33%), Petroleum
Products (10.08%), Engineering goods (8.74%), Drugs and Pharmaceuticals (8.33%).
• Commodity group of imports showing negative growth in February 2020 over February 2019
– Iron and Steel (-26.16%), Organics & Inorganic chemicals (-14.68%), Coal, coke and Briquettes
(-8.63%), Gold (-8.53%), Electronic Goods (-6.66%).

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2.63 Shri Amit Shah chairs the Flag-in Ceremony of Ganga Aamantran Abhiyan
• Recently, Union Home Affairs minister Amit Shah has presided over the Flag-in ceremony of
the Ganga Aamantran Abhiyan.
• It has taken place at New Delhi.
• It has been organized under the National Mission for Clean Ganga.
Relevance
• A team of Ganga Aamantran Abhiyan has conducted a month-long research expedition and
awareness campaign on Ganga, which will help in rejuvenating the river.
About National Mission for Clean Ganga
• It was registered as a society in August 2011 under the Societies Registration Act 1860.
• The aims and objectives of NMCG
o To ensure effective abatement of pollution and rejuvenation of the river Ganga by adopting
a river basin approach to promote inter-sectoral co-ordination for comprehensive planning
and management.
o To maintain minimum ecological flows in the river Ganga with the aim of ensuring water
quality and environmentally sustainable development.
2.64 Maternity Benefit Disbursed to 1.36 Crore Beneficiaries under PMMVY

[Social Sector - Health]
• Recently, Government has informed that Maternity Benefit of Rs 1.36 Crore have been
Disbursed to Beneficiaries under PMMVY.
• It has also informed that 85,56,731 beneficiaries have received full financial assistance of
Rs.5,000 under the scheme.
• Uttar Pradesh has highest number of beneficiaries followed by Madhya Pradesh and
Maharashtra.
About Pradan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana
• Provide maternity benefit of Rs 5000 to pregnant and lactating mothers in three
installments.
• Objective of the scheme -
o Providing partial compensation for the wage loss in terms of cash incentives so that the
woman can take adequate rest before and after delivery of the first living child.
o The cash incentive provided would lead to improved health seeking behaviour amongst
the Pregnant Women and Lactating Mothers (PW&LM).
2.65 National Creche Scheme

[Social Sector – Health]
• Recently, government has informed about National Creche Scheme.
• National Creche Scheme was earlier named as Rajiv Gandhi National Creche Scheme.
• Scheme has been available for the children of working mothers.
• Objective
o To provide day-care facilities for children (6 months to 6 years) of working mothers in the
community.
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o To improve nutrition and health status of children.
o To promote physical, cognitive, social and emotional development (Holistic Development)
of children.
o To educate and empower parents /caregivers for better childcare.
• Crèches have been opened for 26 days in a month and for seven and half (7-1/2) hours per
day.
• User charges to bring in an element of community ownership are collected as under:
o BPL families - Rs 20/- per child per month.
o Families with Income (Both Parents) of upto Rs. 12,000/- per month – Rs. 100/- per child
per month
o Families with Income (Both Parents) of above Rs. 12,000/- per month – Rs. 200/- per child
per month.
• Implemented by – Ministry of Women and Child Development
2.66 Cabinet approves scheme for “Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP)”
to boost exports Scheme for enhancing Exports to International Markets
• Recently, Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval for introducing the
Scheme for Remission of Duties and Taxes on Exported Products (RoDTEP).
Key Features of the scheme
• Under the scheme a mechanism would be created for reimbursement of taxes/ duties/
levies, at the central, state and local level which are currently not being refunded under any
other mechanism but which are incurred in the process of manufacture and distribution of
exported products.
• The refunds under the scheme would be a step towards “zero-rating” of exports, along with
refunds such as Drawback and IGST.
• The rebate would be claimed as a percentage of the Freight On Board (FOB) value of exports.
• A monitoring and audit mechanism, with an Information Technology based Risk Management
System (RMS), would be put in to physically verify the records of the exporters.
• As and when the rates under the RoDTEP Scheme are announced for a tariff line/ item, the
Merchandise Exports from India Scheme (MEIS) benefits on such tariff line/item will be
discontinued.
• The sequence of introduction of the Scheme across sectors, prioritization of the sectors to be
covered, degree of benefit to be given on various items within the rates set by the Committee
will be decided and notified by the Department of Commerce (DoC).
2.67 Exports post first rise in 7 months, grow by 2.91%in February

• Recently, commerce ministry has informed that India’s exports has grown by 2.91% to $27.65
billion in February 2020.
• Imports have grown by 2.48% to $37.5 billion.
• It has led to a trade deficit of $9.85 billion as against $9.72 billion in February 2019.

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• Oil imports have jumped by 14.26% to $10.76 billion in February compared to 9.41 billion in
February 2019.
• Exports during April-February have dipped down by 1.5% to $292.91 billion.
• Imports during the period have declined by 7.30% to $436 billion.
• Trade deficit during the period was $143.12 billion.
2.68 Centre notifies new POCSO rules making law for sexual offences against children more
stringent
[Social Justice]
• Recently, Center has notified the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Rules,
2020.
Key changes made in the Act
• The rules have made police verification mandatory for staff in schools and care homes.
• Changes have been made in procedures to report sexual abuse material (pornography).
• State governments have been asked to formulate a child protection policy based on the
principle of "zero-tolerance" to violence against children.
• These policies should be adopted by all institutions, organizations or any other agency working
with or coming in contact with children.
• The Centre and State governments have been asked to prepare age-appropriate educational
material and curriculum for children.
• These will help in informing children about various aspects of personal safety, including
measures to protect their physical and virtual identity.
• Safeguard their emotional and mental wellbeing, prevention and protection from sexual
offences and reporting mechanism, including Child line helpline services through toll free
number - 1098.
Background
• The POCSO Act was enacted in 2012.
• It has provided a robust legal framework for the protection of children from offences of sexual
assault, sexual harassment and pornography.
• It has also safeguarded the interests of children at every stage of the judicial process.
2.69 Census India-2021 to be conducted in two phases

[Social Justice]
• Recently, government has announced that Census 2021 would be conducted in two phases.
• The first phase will begin from the 1st April to 30th September 2020.
• The second phase will be Population Enumeration which will be conducted from 9 th February
to 28th February 2021.
Background
• Indian census is the largest single source of a range of statistical data on different
characteristics of the people of the country.
• It takes place after every 10 years.

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2.70 Heat stress may impact over 1.2 billion people annually by 2100: study
• Recently, researchers from Rutgers University in US have conducted a study on how
combined extremes of heat and humidity has increased on a warming Earth.
• It has focused on a measure of heat stress that accounts for temperature, humidity and other
environmental factors, including wind speed, sun angle and solar and infrared radiation.
• It has found that based on current greenhouse gas emissions, stress from extreme heat and
humidity by 2100 will annually impact areas which are home to about 1.2 billion people
worldwide.
• It has revealed that if the planet warms by 1.5 degrees Celsius, annual exposure to extreme
heat and humidity will affect areas home to 500 million people and at 2 degrees Celsius it will
affect areas home to nearly 800 million.
About Heat Stress
• Heat stress is caused by the body’s inability to cool down properly through sweating.
• Body temperature can rise rapidly and high temperatures may damage the brain and other
vital organs.
2.71 PM proposes set up of COVID-19 Emergency Fund for SAARC countries

• Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has interacted with the leaders of the SAARC
countries through video conference to chart out a common strategy in order to combat
COVID-19.
Key Highlights of the conference
• India has proposed creation of a COVID-19 Emergency Fund based on voluntary contributions
from all the countries.
• India has made an initial offer of USD 10 million for the fund.
• The fund can be used by any of the partner countries to meet the cost of immediate actions.
• India has been assembling a Rapid Response Team of doctors and specialists, along with
testing kits and other equipment.
• These would be on stand-by and can be placed at the disposal of the countries if required.’
• Existing mechanisms like SAARC Disaster Management Centre can also be used to pool in best
practices.
• India has suggested creation of a common Research Platform to coordinate research on
controlling epidemic diseases within the South Asian region.
2.72 Poor women in urban areas shorter, thinner and more anaemic: Study
[Gender Issues]
• Recently, an article named “Levels and determinants of malnutrition among India's urban
poor women: An analysis of Demographic Health Surveys 2006 and 2016” was published in
journal, Maternal and Child Nutrition.
• The research has aimed at determining the levels and trends of different forms of
malnutrition among urban poor women.
Key Findings of the research
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• As per Demographic Health Survey (DHS-4), 12.8% of urban poor mothers were short, 20.6%
thin, 13.7% overweight, 21.1% obese, 57.4% anaemic and 32.4% had moderate to severe
anaemia.
• Prevalence of short stature was 4.4 percentage points higher among poor mothers compared
with all urban mothers.
• In thinner mothers it was 8.5 percentage points higher.
• In moderate to severe anaemia it was 4 percentage points higher.
• Prevalence of obesity was higher among all urban mothers compared with urban poor mothers
by 11 percentage points.
• The study has also examined the socio-economic characteristics of urban poor mothers and
finds –
o 49.3% of them were married before the age of 18 years as compared to 31.2% of all urban
mothers,
o A quarter or more of the mothers among the urban poor were from the Scheduled Castes
households as compared to 17% to 18% among all urban mothers.
o Less than 40% of urban schedule caste mothers in DHS-4 had a BPL card.
o Only 45% of urban poor mothers had secondary or higher education out of the urban
average of 53% in DHS‐4.
o Urban mothers were largely unemployed.
o A few urban poor mothers had access to money, bank accounts and information on
microcredit scheme.
2.73 Uttar Pradesh mandates 25% procurement from MSMEs by govt depts and PSUs
• Recently, Uttar Pradesh government has announced UP micro and small enterprises
procurement policy 2020.
Key highlights of the policy
• According to policy, state government has mandated 25 per cent procurement by the state
government departments and public sector undertakings (PSU) from the state MSMEs.
• It has fixed sub-quota of 3 per cent and 4 per cent for compulsory procurement from the
MSME units owned by women and scheduled caste/scheduled tribe (SC/ST) entrepreneurs.
• It has mandated 5 per cent procurement from ‘green enterprises’ which are operated on eco-
friendly standards and do not harm environment.
Background
• In 2018, Uttar Pradesh had launched its flagship one district, once product (ODOP) scheme to
boost the MSME sector by promoting the traditional and indigenous industries of the state.
2.74 New law in U.P. to recover costs for damaging property

[Social Justice]
• Recently, Uttar Pradesh government has notified “Uttar Pradesh Recovery of Damage to
Public and Private Property Ordinance, 2020”.
Key highlights of the ordinance

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• Owner of any private property or the head of the office concerned in respect of public
property, may file claims for compensation within three months of any incident that causes
any damage during public protests, bandhs or riots.
• The claim could be cited against respondents who “exhorted” or “instigated” or “committed”
acts that have caused the damage, as well as those named by the police.
• Every order or award that has been passed by the Claims Tribunal would be “final” and no
appeal against such orders would be made before any court.
2.75 Women still don't have level-playing field at work, says pan-IIM survey
[Gender Issue]
• Recently, first ever pan-IIM survey on 'Women in the Workplace' has been conducted.
• It was conducted by - “The star in me”(a global career advancement platform for women) in
collaboration with IIM Kozhikode Alumni Association.
Key Findings of the survey
• It has revealed that flexibility in the workplace, organizational budgets for up-skilling, second
career options for women and extended maternity and paternity were concerns on which
respondents have placed on their value.
• Around 49 per cent of the respondents have mentioned that they do not have equal
opportunities for career growth as the men in their organizations.
• More than 65 per cent have mentioned that women representation in their organizations' top
leadership tier is insignificant and they need more role models to look up to.
• Over 60 per cent mentioned that their organizations provide a flexible work environment and
invest in up skilling.
• Only 45 per cent mentioned that they have initiatives for mentoring and sponsorship.
2.76 Indian millennial women prefer housing for investment: Anarock-LIC survey
[Gender Issue]
• Recently, Anarock-LIC Housing Finance Ltd consumer sentiment survey has been released.
Key Highlights of the survey
• It has found that nearly 57 per cent women preferred real estate as an investment asset class
followed by 28 per cent for the stock market, 11 per cent for fixed deposits and 4 per cent
for gold.
• Out of the women who have preferred real estate as investment,
o 45 per cent will sell the property after appropriate appreciation
o 32 per cent will prefer to earn a steady rental.
o 23 per cent are looking to build it as an asset for the future
• 18 percent women prefer a newly launched property.
• 58 per cent women prefer those properties that will be ready within a year
• 24 per cent women will prefer ready homes.
• 63 per cent of women prefer 2 BHK (bedroom, hall and kitchen) followed by 23 per cent
preferring 3 BHK and merely 14 per cent seeking 1 BHK.
Relevance

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• To empower women of the low-income segment as per the Housing for All by 2022 mission,
the government has made it mandatory for women to be either co-owners or sole owners of
affordable homes.
2.77 On the eve of Women’s Day WCD Minister releases report on status of women in media in
South Asia
[Gender Issues]
• Recently, “Women in Emerging India” event has been organized on the eve of International
Women’s Day.
• The event has taken place in New Delhi.
• Organized by - Press Information Bureau (PIB) and Indian Institute of Mass Communication
(IIMC) under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
• Union minister of Women and Child Development has released a report titled“Status of
Women in Media in South Asia”.
• The report has been prepared by IIMC.
• The study has been conducted on the impact of evolving technology on women in media.
2.78 Coronavirus to wipe out $77-$347 bn global GDP, hurt Asian nations the most: ADB
• Recently, Asian Development Bank (ADB) has mentioned that global losses due to the deadly
coronavirus outbreak could be about USD 156 billion.
• Out of these losses China might account for USD 103 billion.
• It has also analyzed that global impact could be in the range of USD 77 billion to USD 347
billion, or 0.1 per cent to 0.4 per cent of the GDP.
2.79 Kerala to launch total digital literacy campaign

• Recently, state government of Kerala has launched ‘I am also digital,’ campaign.
• Aim – To build the capacity of the society to be able to enjoy benefits of the digital technology,
and educate the public about cyber security issues.
• The campaign would create awareness about e-governance and would be equipped to make
use of various digital platforms through which services are delivered.
• It would help in percolating knowledge at the grass roots level.
2.80 Cash usage now at pre-demonetisation levels: CMS Info Systems report
[Human Development]
• Recently, CMS Info Systems has released CMS Cash Index from April 2016 to December 2019.
• The index has been comprised of three factors –
o Cash in circulation,
o Cash handled in the company’s ATM,
o Retail cash management channels.
Key Findings of the index
• Cash usage in India has increased by 23 per cent between December 2017 and December 2019.

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• It has reached at pre-demonetization level.
• There has been a 16 per cent increase in cash demand through ATM channels between
December 2017 and December 2019.
• States having high per capita cash withdrawals (ones with high economic development) –
Delhi, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, Karnataka.
• States having low per capita cash withdrawals – Bihar, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar
Pradesh.
• States with the fast pace of growth in cash withdrawal – Assam, Chhattisgarh and Kerala
• States with the slow pace of growth in cash withdrawal - Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Bihar
• Industries with high-cash usage - Jewellery, tolls and highways, utility, and petroleum.
• Industries with low-cash usage – footwear, durables, and telecom.
2.81 Lok Sabha passes Mines and Mineral Laws (Amendment) Bill
[Human Development]
• Recently, Lok Sabha has passed the Mines and Mineral Laws (Amendment) Bill.
• The Bill has amended Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act, 1957 and Coal
Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015.
Key Highlights of the Bill
• The Bill has proposed to remove end-use restrictions for participating in coal mine auctions.
• It will open up the coal sector fully for commercial mining for all domestic and global
companies.
• It would also pave the way for auctioning of iron ore mining leases.
2.82 India ranked 46th out of 100 nations on inclusive internet index 2020
[Human Development]
• Recently, Inclusive Internet Index 2020 has been released.
• It has been conducted by Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) and commissioned by Facebook.
• The index has been produced annually since 2017.
• The overall Index score based on following parameters –
o Availability
o Affordability
o Relevance
o Readiness categories.
• Top 5 countries - Sweden followed by New Zealand, USA, Australia and Denmark (Both
Australia and Denmark have been ranked fourth).
• Bottom 5 Countries - Burandi, Liberia, Madag-ascar, Malawi and Burkina Faso.
• In South Asian countries Pakistan has been ranked at the bottom at 76th rank with Sri Lanka
56th and Bangladesh at 70th rank.
• India has been ranked at 46th place.
• India has scored 71.7 out of 100.

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• It was ranked 47th in 2019.
• India has been ranked 68th in terms of availability, 18th in affordability, 46th in relevance and
12th in terms of readiness.
2.83 Intel joins CBSE to empower 1 lakh Indian students in Artificial Intelligence
• Recently, Tech giant Intel and Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) has signed a
memorandum of understanding (MoU).
• The agreement would digitally empower nearly 1 lakh students with Artificial Intelligence
(AI) integration in India’s education system.
• The initiative would roll out an Artificial Intelligence (AI) curriculum framework for grades VIII,
IX and X.
• The curriculum would be based on ‘Intel AI For Youth’ program.
• It aims at empowering the young generation to become AI-ready.
• Intel and CBSE would also launch a ‘National AI Olympiad’ to motivate young students to
showcase their meaningful social impact solutions as evidence of achievement.
2.84 Karnataka’s first ‘Child Budget’ presented

[Social Justice]
• Recently, Karnataka has become the first state to present Child Budget in India.
• The Child Budget has listed a range of issues — survival, protection, and development of
children.
Note - Under the ‘Upakara’ scheme state government would provide financial assistance of Rs 5,000
per month to youngsters who are discharged from Bala Mandiras after 21 years for a maximum of
three years.
2.85 J&K: Govt to advance target of achieving 100% Functional Household Tap Connections by Dec
2021
• Recently, Jammu and Kashmir Government has decided to advance the target of achieving
100% Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) under ‘Jal Jeevan Mission’ (JJM) by
December 2021.
• The mission has a nation-wide target of year 2024.
• For achieving the target state government would develop in-village piped water supply
infrastructure to provide tap water connection to every rural household.
About Jal Jeevan Mission
• Jal Jeevan Mission is envisioned to provide safe and adequate drinking water through
individual household tap connections by 2024 to all households in rural India.
• It will be based on a community approach to water and will include extensive Information,
Education and communication as a key component of the mission.
• Objective
o To provide Functional Household Tap Connections (FHTC) to every rural household.

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o To prioritize provision of FHTCs in qualityaffected areas, villages in drought prone and
desert areas, Sansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY) villages, etc.
o To monitor functionality of tap connections.
2.86 Google India launches skill development programme for women

[Gender Issues]
• Recently, Google India has introduced DigiPivot.
• It has been developed in association with Avtar and Indian School of Business.
• Aim – To influence the overall gender mix in the digital marketing landscape in India
• Objective - To provide opportunities for women professionals to pivot their career in the
digital marketing landscape and open a world of new career opportunities to grow and learn.
• The program provides 18 week learning program and engagement both offline and online.
2.87 Workplace safety still an issue: survey

[Gender Issues]
• Recently, a report titled ‘Creating safe workplaces: prevention and redressal of sexual
harassment in media houses in India’ has been released.
• The report has been prepared by Network of Women in Media, India (NWMI) and Gender at
Work.
• The survey had been constructed online based on 456 participants from various fields such as
journalists, journalism educators, trainers and researchers.
• It has found that in terms of the kinds of harassment experienced by the respondents, the
most common were sexist comments, unwelcome sexual jokes, embarrassing gestures or body
language, attempts to establish unwanted romantic and/or sexual relationships, and pestering
for dates.
• The survey found that 36% of all women respondents have reported having experienced sexual
harassment at the workplaces.
• Out of these 53% women did not report it to anyone.
• 70% of those who made a complaint were not completely satisfied with the outcome.
• Among the women who said that their organization did not have a mechanism to deal with
sexual harassment, 47% had faced sexual harassment.
• It has also found that a large percentage of respondents of media houses had never attended
a training workshop on sexual harassment as required by the law.
2.88 First ever Indore – Kishangarh flight commenced under UDAN

[Human Development]
• Recently, government has flagged of first ever Indore – Kishangarh flight under UDAN.
About UDAN scheme
• UDAN stands for Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik.
• Aim – It aimed at making air travel affordable and widespread, to boost inclusive national
economic development, job growth and air transport infrastructure development of all regions
and states of India.
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• The scheme would be in operation for a period of 10 years.
• Government had announced fourth round of UDAN scheme in December 2019.
• In phase 1, around 43 airports were constructed under the scheme which also includes water
aerodromes and heliports, In phase 2 – around 30 airports were constructed and in phase 3 –
33 airports were conducted.
• Implemented by – Ministry of Civil Aviation.
• Launched in 2016.
Note - Kishangarh is also known as the Marble City of India and is a big market of red chilies.
2.89 WPI inflation eases to 2.26% in Feb

[Inflation]
• Recently, Ministry of commerce has released a data on Wholesale Price Index (WPI) for the
month of February.
• WPI has softened to 2.26% in February 2020 as compared to 3.1% in January 2020.
• WPI index was 2.93% during February 2019.
• The WPI inflation for food articles for February 2020 has come down to 7.79% as against
11.51% in January 2020.
• Build up inflation rate in the 2020 has been 1.92% as compared to 2.75% in 2019.
• In the fuel and power category, wholesale inflation has eased down to 3.38% in February 2020.
• WPI for non-food articles has slowed down to 6.82%.
• WPI inflation for LPG gas has jumped to 21.85 per cent in February as against 1.78% in January
2020.
2.90 Parliament passes Central Sanskrit Universities Bill, 2020

• Recently, Parliament has passed Central Sanskrit Universities Bill, 2020.
• According to the bill Rashtriya Sanskrit Sansthan, New Delhi, Shri Lal Bahadur Shastri Rashtriya
Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, New Delhi and Rashtriya Sanskrit Vidyapeeth, Tirupati will be converted
into Central Sanskrit Universities.
• The bill will also give boost to Post Graduate, Doctoral and Post-doctoral education and
Research in the field of Sanskrit and Shastraic education.
2.91 Employees’ Pension Scheme (Amendment) Scheme, 2020

[Social Justice]
• Recently, government has notified the restoration of full pension after 15 years of retirement
for pensioners under the Employee Provident Fund Scheme (EPF scheme).
• The pension would be availed by those pensioners who have commuted part of their pension
at the time of retirement.
• The move has expected to result in a substantial increase in pension for those Employees
Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) pensioners who had retired before 26th September 2008
and had opted for partial commutation of pension.
Background
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• As per Employees' Pension Scheme (EPS) rules, an EPFO member who has retired before
September 26, 2008 could get maximum one-third of his/her pension as lump-sum i.e.
commuted pension.
• Remaining two-third was paid as monthly pension to an employee for his/her lifetime.
2.92 10 projects have been approved under Mission Solar Charkha

• Recently, government has informed that as on March 2020, 10 projects have been approved
under Mission Solar Charkha.
About Mission Solar Charkha
• The mission is an initiative of Micro Small and Medium Enterprise (MSME).
• The aims and objectives of Mission Solar Charkha are –
o To ensure inclusive growth by generation of employment, especially for women and youth
and sustainable development through solar charkha cluster in rural areas.
o To boost rural economy and help in arresting migration from rural to urban areas.
o To leverage low-cost, innovative technologies and processes for substance.
• The scheme would implement Solar Charkha Clusters across the country.
• The scheme envisages to generate direct employment to nearly one lakh persons.
• Implemented by – Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC).
2.93 438 EMRSs have so far been sanctioned

• Recently, Minister of State for Tribal Affairs has informed that 438 Eklavya Model Residential
Schools (EMRSs) have been sanctioned by the ministry.
About Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs)
• Objective - To provide quality middle and high-level education to Scheduled Tribe (ST)
students in remote areas in order to enable them to avail of reservation in high and
professional educational courses and get jobs in government and public and private sectors.
• As per budget announcement 2018-19, every block having 50% or more ST population and at
least 20,000 ST persons is to have an EMRS by the year 2022.
• The scheme of Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRSs) was introduced in the year 1997-
98.
Note – During 2017-18 examination nearly 90% of students have passed class 10th exam of which 53%
have secured first division and 81% students have passed class 12th exam of which 61% have secured
first Division.
2.94 Govt set up an ambitious target to achieve sales of around 70 lakh hybrid and electric vehicles
in 2020
• Recently, Union Minister of Heavy Industries has informed that government has set an
ambitious target to achieve sales of around 70 lakh hybrid and electric vehicles by the end
of 2020.

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About FAME scheme
• FAME stands for Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India.
• It will promote the manufacturing of electric and hybrid vehicle technology under the
National Electric Mobility Mission Plan 2020.
• Second phase of the scheme aims to support through demand incentives about seven
thousand E-buses, 5 lakh E-3 wheelers, 55 thousand E-4 wheelers passenger cars and 10 lakh
E-2 wheelers.
• FAME scheme was initiated in 2015.
2.95 West Bengal has setup an emergency fund of Rs 200 crores

• Recently, West Bengal has setup an emergency fund of Rs 200 crores for coronavirus epidemic.
Various other states have also taken some step to combat corona virus –
• Karnataka has begun mental health counselling for persons who have tested positive for
coronovirus.
• National Health Mission Tamil Nadu has launched a web portal http://stopcoronatn.in/ to
provide important updates on Covid-19 in the State.
2.96 India Inc fears coronavirus to pull down GDP by 50 bps

• Recently, Care Ratings has conducted a survey among corporates on the impact of the
coronavirus pandemic on the economy.
Key Findings of the Survey
• 52% of the respondents have expected a decline of 0.5% in GDP.
• 70% of the respondents have expected decrease of 0.25% in fiscal deficit if government has
announced fiscal measures to support the economy.
• 23 % of the respondents feel that hospitality and tourism sector will be adversely impacted
due to coronavirus followed by airlines and auto and auto ancillary.
• According to the survey retail and e-commerce sector will see a gain.
2.97 More than Rs 20,000 crores of loans sanctioned under Stand Up India Scheme since inception
[Human Development]
• Recently, government has announced that more than Rs 20000 crores of loans have been
sanctioned under Stand Up India scheme.
About Stand Up India Scheme
• Aim – To promote entrepreneurship among women, scheduled castes and tribes.
• Scheme facilitates bank loans between Rs. 10 lakh and Rs. 1 crore.
• The loans have been provided to at least one Scheduled Caste/ Scheduled Tribe borrower and
at least one woman borrower, per bank branch of Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs).
• The loans are provided for setting up greenfield enterprises in the manufacturing, services or
the trading sectors.
• Implemented by - Ministry of Finance
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2.98 National Guidelines on Infant and Young Child Feeding
• Recently, Union minister of state for Health and Family Welfare has informed about the
National Guidelines on Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF).
• According to the guidelines, infants should be exclusively breastfed for the first six months of
life to achieve optimal growth, development and health.
• Objective – To bring about improvement in optimal feeding practices for infants and young
children and raise awareness for achieving optimal feeding practices.
Government has taken various steps to ensure Infant and Young Child Feeding
• Infant Milk Substitutes Feeding Bottles, and Infant Foods (Regulation of Production,
Supply and Distribution) Act, 1993, as amended 2003 - To protect, promote and support
breastfeeding and ensure proper use of infant foods.
• Anganwadi Services Scheme - Provides counselling to Pregnant Women and Lactating
Mothers on infant and young child feeding practices.
• Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana (PMMVY) - Scheme of the Government for
pregnant and lactating women, under which cash incentives are provided partly
compensating for their wage loss to improve health seeking behaviour amongst the
Pregnant Women & Lactating Mothers.
• POSHAN Abhiyaan - To promote a transformative change, to address the malnutrition
related challenges and create awareness on holistic nutrition including promotion of optimal
infant and young child feeding practices.
• Infant and Young Child Feeding (IYCF) - Practices are promoted under Mothers’ Absolute
Affection (MAA) in convergence with Ministry of Women and Child Development.
• Home Based Care for Young Children (HBYC) – An extension of Home Based Newborn Care
(HBNC) to provide community based care by ASHA workers with focus on improvement in child
rearing practices, nutrition counselling and breastfeeding promotion till 15th month of life.
• Village Health Sanitation and Nutrition Days (VHSNDs) – Observed for provision of maternal
and child health services and creating awareness on maternal and child care in convergence
with Ministry of Women and Child Development.
• Revised Mother and Child Protection Card - Joint initiative of the Ministry of Health & Family
Welfare and the Ministry of Woman and Child Development. It is an effective counselling tool
for use of front line workers to address the nutrition concerns and improving IYCF practices in
children.
2.99 Power Generation from Conventional Sources Registered Annual Growth of 5.45% in 2018-19
as compared to 2015-16
• Recently, Government has informed that total power generation from conventional fuel
sources including hydro and renewable energy sources has registered a compound annual
growth rate of 5.45% .
• It has increased from 1.17 billion units (BU) in 2015-16 to 1.38 BU in 2018-19.

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• Power generation from hydro sources has registered a compound annual growth rate of
3.3% between 2015-16 to 2018-19.
• Generation of power from conventional sources has shown a compound annual growth rate
of 4.09%.
2.100 Lok Sabha passes Aircraft (Amendment) Bill, 2020

[Human Development]
• Recently, Lok Sabha has passed the Aircraft (Amendment) Bill, 2020.
• The bill has amended Aircraft Act, 1934.
• It has enabled Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Bureau of Civil Aviation Security and
Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau to become more effective.
• It has also led to enhancement in the level of safety and security of aircraft operations in the
country.
2.101 Centre sanctions 93 per cent of projects under ‘Housing for all’
[Human Development]
• Recently, Union Minister of State for Housing and Urban Affairs has informed that government
has sanctioned 93% of projects under Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Urban) – PMAY (U)
program.
• Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh and Maharashtra have seen maximum number of sanctions
under the scheme.
About Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Urban (PMAY-U)
• It intends to provide housing for all in urban areas by year 2022.
• As per PMAY(U) guidelines, the size of a house for Economically Weaker Section (EWS) could
be upto 30 sq. mt. carpet area,
• States/UTs have the flexibility to enhance the size of houses in consultation and approval of
the Ministry of Housing and Urban affairs.
• Implemented by – Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs.
• Launched - 25th June 2015.
Note - Urban Development Minister has informed that the target of Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana will
be achieved well before 2022.
2.102 Tamil-medium education since school must for preference in jobs under (PSTM) quota
[Human Development]
• Recently, Tamil Nadu government has passed a bill which has made Tamil medium education
from primary school mandatory for preference in jobs under ‘Persons Studied in Tamil
Medium’ (PSTM) quota.
• State government has also introduced a bill which sought to ensure 4% reservation for the
differently-abled in government jobs.
2.103 Implementation of Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana

[Social Justice]

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• Recently, Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment has informed about the
implementation of Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana.
• Uttar Pradesh has the largest number of beneficiaries under the scheme.
About Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana
• Objective – To provide the senior citizens, living below poverty line and suffering from any of
the age related disability/ infirmity, with such assisted living devices which can restore near
normalcy in their bodily functions, overcoming the disability/ infirmity manifested.
• Implemented by - Artificial Limbs Manufacturing Corporation (ALIMCO)’.
• ALIMCO is a PSU under Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment.
• Scheme has been entirely funded from Senior Citizens’ Welfare Fund (SCWF).
2.104 Supply of iron ore during last year i.e. 2018-19 was 207.7 MT
• Recently, Union minister of Steel has informed that India has imported 17.97 million tonnes
of raw steel in 2018-19.
• India has exported 15.90 million tonnes of raw steel during 2018-19.
• He has also informed that supply of iron ore during 2018-19 was 207.7 MT against its demand
of 189 MT.
• Punjab has maximum number of steel plant units (only steel sector) in India.
2.105 Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank chairs meeting on Research in Indian Traditional Knowledge
Systems in Delhi
• Recently, Union HRD minister Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank has chaired a meeting on Research
in Indian Traditional Knowledge Systems.
• The meeting has taken place in New Delhi.
• Objective – To ensure the development of the society by coordinating the ancient and modern
genres of knowledge.
2.106 Govt proposes to restructure and formulate a scheme for Rehabilitation of Beggars
[Social Justice]
• Recently, government has announced that it has proposed to restructure and formulate a
scheme for Comprehensive Rehabilitation of Beggars.
• The scheme would provide following facilities to beggars –
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o Identification,
o Rehabilitation,
o Provision of medical facilities,
o Counselling,
o Education,
o Skill development.
• It would be implemented with the support of State Governments, Local Urban Bodies and
Voluntary Organizations.
2.107 Govt taking positive steps for listing Bhojpuri, Rajasthani & Bhoti into 8th Schedule of
constitution
• Recently, Government has informed that it has been taking positive steps for listing Bhojpuri,
Rajasthani & Bhoti into 8th schedule of constitution.
Relevance
• 8th schedule of Indian constitution deals with languages.
• At present 8th schedule have 22 languages.
2.108 Gujarat education department to telecast lessons through private regional TV channels
[Social Sector – Education]
• Recently, Gujarat education department has decided to telecast lessons through private
regional TV channels.
• The decision has been taken to compensate the lost teaching hours following the closure of
schools in the wake of coronavirus.
• The expert teachers have been teaching lessons of important subjects of standard 7th to 9th
and 11th daily for one hour on these channels.
2.109 Rajya Sabha passes National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Bill 2019
• Recently, Rajya Sabha has passed National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Bill
2019 and the National Commission for Homoeopathy Medicine Bill 2019.
• National Commission for Indian System of Medicine Bill 2019 has repealed Indian Medicine
Central Council Act, 1970.
• National Commission for Homeopathy Medicine Bill 2019 has repealed Homoeopathy Central
Council Act, 1973
• Bills have aimed at providing a quality and affordable medical education system ensuring high
quality medical professionals in Indian System of Medicine and Homeopathy, in all parts of the
country.
2.110 World Bank increases COVID-19 response funding to 14 bln USD

• Recently, World Bank has announced 14 billion USD to assist companies and countries in
their efforts to respond to the rapid spread of COVID-19.
• It has added 2 billion dollars to the initial package.
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• The International Finance Corporation (IFC), a member of the World Bank Group, has increased
its COVID-19-related financing availability to USD8 billion as part of the USD14 billion package,
up from an earlier USD6 billion.
2.111 Karnataka passes Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj (Amendment) Bill, 2020,
• Recently, Karnataka government has passed Karnataka Gram Swaraj and Panchayat Raj
(Amendment) Bill, 2020.
Key Highlights of the Bill
• The bill has reduced the term of the offices of presidents and vice-presidents of gram
panchayats, taluk panchayats, and zilla panchayats from five years to 30 months.
• No-confidence motion could not be moved against the presidents and vice-presidents of all
three-tiers of local bodies before 15 months from the date of election.
• The Taluk Panchayat and Zila Panchayat member would be disqualified for six years if he or
she found guilty with regard to misuse or abuse of power.
• Bill has made Members of Legislative Council, registered as voter in that taluk, as vice-
chairman of the taluk planning and development committee.
2.112 Coronavirus: ADB announces $6.5 bn package for developing member countries
• Recently, Asian Development Bank has announced $6.5 billion package for its developing
member countries to fight the coronavirus pandemic.
• The package has provided USD 3.6 billion in sovereign operations for a range of responses to
the health and economic consequences of the pandemic.
• USD 1.6 billion has been provided in non-sovereign operations for micro, small and medium-
sized enterprises, domestic and regional trade and firms that are directly impacted.
• ADB had earlier provided more than $225 million to meet urgent needs of both governments
and businesses in developing member countries.
2.113 Ministry of Consumer Affairs celebrated the World Consumer Day

[Human Development]
• Recently, Ministry of Consumer Affairs has celebrated the World Consumer Day on 15 th
March.
• Government has organized a webinar on this year’s theme, ‘The Sustainable Consumer’.
• The webinar focused on eight themes starting from food to fashion and included water,
packaging, mobility, products and information asymmetry.
• Ministry of Consumer Affairs has informed that it would leverage power of consumer choice
to create a market for sustainable products via the ‘Jago Grahak Jago’ campaign.
• The campaign would create awareness and inspire people to start practicing sustainable
behavior while buying products, using products, consider repairing the product, and finally
responsibly recycling the products.

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2.114 An amount of Rs. 15566.96 lakh has been approved for State Specific Projects for the year
2019-20 under Samagra Shiksha
[Gender Issue]
• Recently, Union HRD minister has informed that an amount of Rs 15566.96 lakh has been
approved for state specific projects under Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan for the year 2019-20.
• These state specific projects have addressed the issues of adolescent girls by working on
projects like Life Skills, Awareness programmes, Incinerators, Sanitary Pad Vending Machines.
Relevance
• As per Unified District Information System for Education (UDISE) 2017-18 Gross Enrolment
Ratio (GER) at Primary level for Girls is 95.4.
Background
• Under Samagra Shiksha, various interventions have been targeted for girls –
o Schools have been opened in the neighbourhood as defined by the State,
o Free text-books have been provided of to girls up to Class VIII,
o Uniforms have been provided to all girls up to class VIII,
o Provision of gender segregated toilets in all schools,
o Teachers’ sensitization programmes have been organized to promote girls’ participation,
o Provision for Self-Defence training for the girls from classes VI to XII,
o Stipend has been given to Children With Special Needs (CWNS) girls from class I to Class
XII,
o Residential quarters have been constructed for teachers in remote/hilly areas/in areas
with difficult terrain.
About Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan
• Samagra Shiksha is an overarching programme for the school education sector extending from
pre-school to class 12.
• It has subsumed the three erstwhile Schemes of Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan (SSA), Rashtriya
Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan (RMSA) and Teacher Education (TE).
• The major objectives of the Scheme are
o Provision of quality education and enhancing learning outcomes of students
o Bridging Social and Gender Gaps in School Education; Ensuring equity and inclusion at all
levels of school education
o Ensuring minimum standards in schooling provisions
o Promoting Vocationalisation of education
o Support States in implementation of Right of Children to Free and Compulsory Education
(RTE) Act, 2009
o Strengthening and up-gradation of SCERTs/State Institutes of Education and DIET as a
nodal agencies for teacher training.
• Implemented by - The Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Human
Resource Development

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2.115 Ministry of HRD and Ministry of Health and Family Welfare have jointly developed
comprehensive School Health Programme (SHP) to promote health and well being of students
• Recently, Union HRD minister has informed that Ministry of HRD and Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare have jointly developed comprehensive School Health Programme (SHP).
• The program has been developed under Ayushman Bharat to foster the growth, development
and educational achievement of school going children by promoting their health and
wellbeing.
• A total of eleven themes have been identified under the SHP which include Reproductive
Health and HIV Prevention.
• He has also informed that Department of School & Literacy is implementing the Adolescence
Education Programme (AEP) as part of the National Population Education Project (NPEP).
• The program has made the learners aware of the concerns of adolescence, i.e. process of
growing up during adolescence, HIV/AIDS and Substance (Drug) Abuse and to inculcate in them
positive attitude regarding these concerns.
2.116 Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti informed about the Implementation of National Aquifer
Mapping and Management program (NAQUIM)
• Recently, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti has informed about the implementation of
National Aquifer Mapping and Management program (NAQUIM).
About National Aquifer Mapping and Management program (NAQUIM)
• The program envisages mapping of aquifers (water bearing formations), their characterization
and development of Aquifer Management Plans to facilitate sustainable management of
Ground Water Resources.
• Implemented by - Central Ground Water Board (CGWB).
Relevance
• Central Ground Water Board had earlier prepared “Empowering Village Communities for A
Sustainable Water Future: A Resource Book for village level para-hydrogeologists” for
ground water management.
• It was developed jointly with MARVI (Managing Aquifer Recharge and Sustaining
Groundwater Use through Village-level Intervention).
• It helps in facilitating participation of village communities in ground water resource
management including adequate awareness generation, ensuring a sustainable water future.
Note – State government has taken various initiatives for ground water management such as -
‘Mukhyamantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan’ in Rajasthan, ‘Jalyukt Shibar’ in Maharashtra, ‘Sujalam
Sufalam Abhiyan’ in Gujarat, ‘Mission Kakatiya’ in Telangana, ‘Neeru Chettu’ in Andhra Pradesh,
‘Jal Jeevan Hariyali’ in Bihar.
2.117 Funds for Namami Gange Programme


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• Recently, Union Minister of State for Jal Shakti has informed that during 2019-20, the final
allocation for the Namami Gange Programme is Rs.1,553.44 crore against the Budget
Allocation of Rs.1,970.00 crore.
• The expenditure incurred on the program are as follows
Note - Rs.1,640.02 crore have been allocated for the program in Union Budget 2020-21.
2.118 Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme

• Recently, Union minister of MSME has informed about Prime Minister’s Employment
Generation Programme (PMEGP).
• He has informed about Margin Money subsidy funds allocated and disbursed under this
programme during the last three years and the current year.

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About Prime Minister’s Employment Generation Programme (PMEGP)
• The scheme is a major credit-linked subsidy program.
• Aim – To generate self-employment opportunities through establishment of micro-enterprises
in the non-farm sector by helping traditional artisans and unemployed youth.
• Under the scheme, loan is being provided by all Public Sector Banks, selected Private Sector
Banks and Co-operative Banks with margin money subsidy being given by Ministry of MSME
through KVIC.
• Any individual above 18 years of age is eligible for applying under the scheme.
• Margin subsidy of project cost under the scheme is provided as follows –
o General category – 25% in rural areas , 15 % in urban areas.
o Special Categories (Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribe/OBC /Minorities/Women, Ex-
serviceman, Physically handicapped, NER, Hill and Border areas) – 35% in rural areas, 25%
in urban araes.
• The maximum cost of projects can be Rs. 25 lakh in the manufacturing sector and Rs. 10 lakh
in the service sector.
• Benefit can be availed under PMEGP for setting up of new units only.
• Ministry of MSME in 2018-19 introduced a new component of second financial assistance for
expansion/upgrading the existing PMEGP/MUDRA units for manufacturing unit up to Rs.1.00
cr. and for service/ trading unit up to Rs.25.00 lakhs.
• It will be provided with subsidy of 15% (20% for NER and Hilly state).
• Implemented by - Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC)
2.119 Export of MSME Products

• Recently, Union minister of MSME has informed that MSME sector has contributed 49.81 %
in total share of exports till December 2019.
Various initiatives taken by government for enhancing MSME sector

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• Micro & Small Enterprises –Cluster Development Programme (MSE-CDP) – It has helped in
enhancing the productivity and competitiveness as well as capacity building of Micro and Small
Enterprises (MSEs)
• Objective
o To support the sustainability and growth of MSEs by addressing common issues such as
improvement of technology, skills & quality, market access, etc.
o To build capacity of MSEs for common supportive action through formation of self help
groups, consortia, upgradation of associations, etc.
o To create/upgrade infrastructural facilities in the new/existing Industrial Areas/Clusters of
MSEs.
o To set up Common Facility Centres (for testing, training, raw material depot, effluent
treatment, complementing production processes, etc).
o Promotion of green & sustainable manufacturing technology for the clusters so as to
enable units switch to sustainable and green production processes and products
• Scheme for Promotion of MSMEs in NER & Sikkim - The Scheme envisages financial assistance
to State Governments for setting up new and modernize existing Mini Technology Centres.
• Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional Industries (SFURTI) –
• Objective –
o To organize the traditional industries and artisans into clusters to make them competitive
and provide support for their long term sustainability, sustained employment
o To enhance marketability of products of such clusters,
o To equip traditional artisans of the associated clusters with the improved skills,
o To make provision for common facilities and improved tools and equipments for artisans,
o To strengthen the cluster governance systems with the active participation of the
stakeholders, and
o To build up innovated and traditional skills, improved technologies, advanced processes,
market intelligence and new models of public-private partnerships, so as to gradually
replicate similar models of cluster-based regenerated traditional industries
o Nodal Agency – Khadi and Village Industrial Commission.
• Entrepreneurship & Skill Development Programme (ESDP) - To motivate youth representing
different sections of the society including SC/ST/Women, differently-abled, Ex-servicemen and
BPL persons to consider self employment or entrepreneurship as one of the career options.
• Up-skilling through testing/technology centres, support for tooling/technology services
Note – Maharashtra has largest number of registered MSMEs followed by Madhya Pradesh and Tamil
Nadu.
2.120 10 % reduction in accidental deaths after implementation of new Motor Vehicles Act
[Human Development]
• Recently, government has informed that there has been 10 percent reduction in the number
of accidental deaths in the country after implementation of new Motor Vehicles Act.
• Gujarat has seen highest reduction in deaths followed by Uttar Pradesh.

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2.121 Centre issues gazette notification for adaptation of 37 central laws in J&K
• Recently, Centre has issued a gazette notification for the adaptation of 37 Central laws in the
Concurrent List for the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
• The notification has included central laws such as the Representation of people act, the Real
Estate (Regulation and Development) Act, the Protection of Human Rights Act, the Prevention
of Corruption Act and the Indian Penal Code among others.
2.122 Institute of Teaching & Research in Ayurveda Bill, 2020

• Recently, Institute of Teaching & Research in Ayurveda Bill, 2020 has been taken up for
consideration in Lok Sabha.
• The bill has provided for the establishment of an Institute of Teaching and Research in
Ayurveda.
• The institute would be declared as an institution of national importance for the promotion of
quality and excellence in education, research and training in Ayurveda and allied disciplines.
2.123 WHO launches Health Alert on WhatsApp

• Recently, World Health Organization has launched a Health Alert on WhatsApp.
• The alert has been designed to answer questions from the public about coronavirus.
• It would give prompt, reliable and official information 24 hours a day in the world.
• It has initially been launched in English.
• It would also provide official information on how to protect yourself from infection, travel
advice, and debunking coronavirus myths.
Relevance
• WhatsApp in partnership with the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and UNDP has
launched the WhatsApp Coronavirus Information Hub.
• It has also announced a USD 1 million grant to the International Fact Checking Network to
support fact-checking for the #CoronaVirusFacts Alliance.
Note - National Pharmaceuticals Pricing Authority has created a Whatsapp Chatbox named as MyGov
Corona Helpdesk.
2.124 Department of Science & Technology designs scheme for R&D on vaccines and diagnostics for
Covid-19
• Recently, Department of Science & Technology has specifically designed a Intensification of
Research in High Priority Area scheme(IRHPA).
• It has been focusing on key themes such as new or repurposed antivirals against valid viral
targets; viricidal coatings.
• It has also focused on affordable diagnostics for symptomatic and asymptomatic respiratory
viral infections investigational vaccines against respiratory viruses.
Relevance
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• Recently, Phase 1 clinical trial for evaluating an investigational vaccine designed to protect
against coronavirus disease 19 (Covid-19) has begun at Kaiser Permanente Washington
Health Research Institute (KPWHRI) in Seattle.
• The National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID) has been funding the trial.
• KPWHRI is part of NIAID’s Infectious Diseases Clinical Research Consortium.
• The open-label trial would enroll 45 healthy adult volunteers aged between 18 to 55 years for
approximately 6 weeks.
• The first participant had received the investigational vaccine on March 16.
Note - Government has constituted a high level technical committee of Public Health Experts for
COVID-19 under the chairmanship of NITI Aayog member Dr V K Paul to guide the prevention and
control activities in the country.
2.125 PM Modi announces Covid-19 Economic Response Task Force to tackle virus outbreak
• Recently, PM Modi has announced Covid-19 Economic Response Task Force to tackle virus
outbreak.
• The task force has been chaired by Union Finance minister Nirmla Sitharaman.
• It would also ensure that all steps are being taken to reduce the economic difficulties and
execute them effectively.
2.126 Students to continue their learning by making full use of the available digital e-Learning
platforms
• Recently, Union HRD Minister has asked students to continue the learning by making full use
of the available digital e-Learning platforms during the period the educational institutions are
closed due to coronavirus.
Some of the digital initiatives/platforms of Ministry of HRD are as follows -
• DIKSHA –
o The app offers teachers, students and parents engaging learning material relevant to the
prescribed school curriculum.
o Teachers have access to aids like lesson plans, worksheets and activities, to create
enjoyable classroom experiences.
o Students understand concepts, revise lessons and do practice exercises.
o Parents can follow classroom activities and clear doubts outside school hours.
• e-PATHSHALA –
o It is a web portal developed by NCERT.
o It has deployed 1886 audios, 2000 videos, 696 e- e-books (e-Pubs) and 504 Flip Books for
classes 1st to 12th in different languages.
• National Repository of Open Educational Resources (NROER) –
o NROER is a collaborative platform, which brings together everyone interested in school
and teacher education.
o Initiated by – Department of School Education and Literacy, Ministry of Human Resource
Development
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o Managed by – Central Institute of Educational Technology, NCERT.
• SWAYAM
o It is the national online education platform.
o Objective - To take the best teaching learning resources to all, including the most
disadvantaged.
o It seeks to bridge the digital divide for students who have hitherto remained untouched by
the digital revolution and have not been able to join the mainstream of the knowledge
economy.
o It has been integrated with the conventional education
• SWAYAM PRABHA
o It has 32 D2H TV channels transmitting educational contents on 24/7 basis
o The channels have covered both School education and Higher Education in arts, Science,
commerce, performing arts, Social Sciences and Humanities subjects, engineering,
technology, law, medicine, agriculture.
2.127 Cabinet approves Promotion of domestic manufacturing of critical Key Starting

Materials/Drug Intermediates and Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients in the country
• Recently, Cabinet has approved scheme on Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks and Production
Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme.
About Promotion of Bulk Drug Parks
• Decision has been taken to develop 3 mega Bulk Drug parks in India in partnership with States.
• Government of India would provide Grants-in-Aid to States with a maximum limit of Rs. 1000
Crore per Bulk Drug Park.
• Parks would have common facilities such as solvent recovery plant, distillation plant, power &
steam units, common effluent treatment plant etc.
• A sum of Rs. 3,000 crore has been approved for the scheme for next 5 years.
• Implemented by – State Implementing Agencies (SIA)
About Production Linked Incentive (PLI) Scheme
• Under the scheme Financial incentive would be given to eligible manufacturers of identified
53 critical bulk drugs on their incremental sales over the base year (2019-20) for a period of 6
years.
• Out of 53 identified bulk drugs, 26 are fermentation based bulk drugs and 27 are chemical
synthesis based bulk drugs.
• Rate of incentive would be 20 % of incremental sales value for fermentation based bulk drugs
and 10% for chemical synthesis based bulk drugs.
• A sum of Rs. 6,940 crore has been approved for next 8 years.
• Implemented by - Project Management Agency (PMA) to be nominated by the Department of
Pharmaceuticals.
Background
• India has been importing 80-100% of its specific bulk drugs.

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2.128 Cabinet approves inclusion of the AYUSH Health & Wellness Centres component of Ayushman
Bharat in National AYUSH Mission
• Recently, cabinet has approved the inclusion the inclusion of AYUSH Health and Wellness
Centre (AYUSH HWC) component of Ayushman Bharat in National AYUSH Mission (NAM).
• Objective –
o To establish a holistic wellness model based on AYUSH principles and practices focusing on
preventive, promotive, curative, rehabilitative and palliative healthcare by integration with
the existing public health care system.
o To provide informed choice to the needy public by making the AYUSH services available.
o The AYUSH services include community awareness about lifestyle, die, Yoga, medicinal
plants and provision of medicines for selected conditions as per strength of AYUSH
systems.
• The ministry has proposed two models for operationalization of AYUSH Health & Wellness
Centres –
o Upgradation of existing AYUSH dispensaries (approximately 10,000)
o Upgradation of existing Sub Health Centres (SHCs) (approx. 2,500)
Background
• The National Health Policy 2017 has advocated mainstreaming the potential of AYUSH
systems (Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha, Sows-rigpa and Homoeopathy) within
a pluralistic system of Integrative healthcare.
• The Government of India in 2018 had decided that 1.5 lakh health & wellness centres would
be created by transforming existing Sub health Centres and Primary health Centres to deliver
Comprehensive Primary health Care.
• Ministry of AYUSH has operationalized 10% of the total sub-health centres as Health and
Wellness Centres i.e. 12,500 under Ayushman Bharat.
• The vision of the proposal is to establish a holistic wellness model based on AYUSH principles
and practices, to empower masses for "self care" to reduce the disease burden and out of
pocket expenditure and to provide informed choice of the needy public.
Note - Recently, Government has informed that National health policy is poised to achieve a total
fertility rate of 2.1 per cent by 2025.
2.129 Cabinet approves Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Large Scale Electronics
Manufacturing
[Human Development]
• Recently, Cabinet has approved Production Linked Incentive Scheme for Large Scale
Electronics Manufacturing.
• The scheme would boost domestic manufacturing and attract large investments in mobile
phone manufacturing and specified electronic components including Assembly, Testing,
Marking and Packaging (ATMP) units.

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• It could extend an incentive of 4% to 6% on incremental sales (over base year) of goods
manufactured in India and covered under target segments, to eligible companies, for a period
of five (5) years
• The scheme has a total employment potential of about 8,00,000 employees.
• Cabinet has also approved financial incentive of 25% of capital expenditure for the
manufacturing of goods that constitute the supply chain of an electronic product under the
Scheme for Promotion of manufacturing of Electronic Components and Semiconductors
(SPECS).
Relevance
• India has seen an increase of USD 24 billion in 2019-19 rom USD 3 Billion in 2014-15.
• According to the Electronic Industries Association of India (ELCINA), the electronic
components market in India has increased from USD 11 Billion in 2015-16 to USD 20.8 Billion
in 2018-19.
Background
• Government has launched National Policy on Electronics in 2019 (NPE 2019).
• The policy has been focusing to position India as a global hub for Electronics System Design
and Manufacturing (ESDM).
• It would help in encouraging and driving capabilities for developing core components,
including, chipsets, and creating an enabling environment for the industry in the country to
compete globally.
2.130 Cabinet approves Modified Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC 2.0) Scheme
• Recently, Cabinet has approved Modified Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMC 2.0)
Scheme.
• The scheme would support setting up of both Electronics Manufacturing Clusters (EMCs) and
Common Facility Centers (CFCs).
• Electronics Manufacturing Cluster (EMC) would focus on development of basic infrastructure,
amenities and other common facilities for the ESDM units.
• Common Facility Centre (CFC) would focus on upgrading common technical infrastructure and
providing common facilities for the ESDM units.
Relevance
• The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) notified the Electronics
Manufacturing Clusters (EMC) Scheme in October, 2012.
• The objective of the scheme was to provide support for creation of world class infrastructure
for attracting investments in the Electronics Systems Design and Manufacturing (ESDM)
sector.
• Under the scheme, 20 Greenfield EMCs and 3 Common Facility Centres (CFCs) have been
approved in 15 statesacross the country.
Background
• India’s electronic sector accounts for 2.3% of India’s GDP.

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• India’s electronics production has increased at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of
about 25% between 2014-15 to 2018-19.
• India’s share in global electronics manufacturing has grown from 1.3% in 2012 to 3% 2018.
2.131 J&K govt constitutes commission for welfare of socially, educationally backward classes
[Social Justice]
• Recently, Jammu and Kashmir government has constituted a commission for socially and
educationally backward classes in the union territory.
• The commission has been chaired by Justice GD Sharma.
• It would look into the issues of Socially and Educationally Backward Classes, Scheduled Castes
and Scheduled Tribes in the J&K.
2.132 National and State level awards to Anganwadi Workers

[Social Justice]
• Recently, Union Minister of Women and Child Development has informed that National
Level Awards and State Level Awards were given to Anganwadi workers under the ICDS
Scheme till 2017.
• The awards were given to recognize their exemplary voluntary service in the field of child
development and related areas.
• At present, AAAA&LS (Anganwadi Workers, Anganwadi Helpers, Accredited Social Health
Activist, Auxiliary Nurse and Midwives & Lady Supervisors) awards have been presented
under POSHAN Abhiyaan.
• The awards have been presented for synergizing the efforts during various activities like
counseling during home visits, Community Based Events and Village Health Sanitation and
Nutrition Day.
• Cash reward of Rs 50000 is provided under the award.
2.133 23 E-Commerce Agencies for Online Marketing of Handloom Products

• Recently, Union Minister of Textile has informed that government has engaged 23 e-
commerce agencies for online marketing of Handloom products.
• An amount of Rs. 93.79 crore has been generated from online marketing of Handloom
products till February 2020.
2.134 TRIFED Launches transformational “Tech For Tribals” program in partnership with Institutes
of National Importance (INIs) to develop Tribal entrepreneurship
• Recently, TRIFED has launched “Tech for Tribal” program.
• It has been launched by TRIFED and IIT-Kanpur along with IIT-Roorkee, IIM Indore, Kalinga
Institute of Social Science, Bhubaneshwar and SRIJAN, Jaipur.
• Aims – at capacity building and imparting entrepreneurship skills to tribal forest produce
gatherers enrolled under the Pradhan Mantri Van Dhan Yojana(PMVDY).
About Van Dhan Yojana

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• The Van Dhan Scheme is an initiative of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs and TRIFED.
• The scheme aims at the economic development of tribals involved in the collection of Minor
Food Produces (MFPs) by helping them in optimum utilization of natural resources and
providing them with a sustainable livelihood.
2.135 Mahatma Gandhi Bunkar Bima Yojana

[Human Development]
• Recently, Union minister of Textile has informed about the Mahatma Gandhi Bunkar Bima
Yojana (MGBBY).
• The scheme has provided social security benefits like life, accidental & disability insurance
coverage to handloom weavers/workers in the age group of 51-59 years across the country.
• The annual premium under the scheme has been Rs.470
• Government has also organized Hasthkala Sahyog Shivirs in handloom clusters in association
with State Governments and LIC for creating awareness among the weavers for enrollment
under the Scheme.
2.136 Aadhaar Cards issued to over 90% population of India as of Feb 2020: Govt
[Human Development]
• Recently, Union minister of state for Electronics and IT has informed that 90% population of
India have been issued Aadhaar Cards till February 2020.
• He has informed that the architecture of Aadhaar ecosystem is geared to ensure security and
privacy.
• He also informed that Aadhaar cards do not collect informations about the financial status of
residents.
2.137 European Central Bank to print 1 trn euro this year to stem Covid-19 rout
[Human Development]
• Recently, European Central Bank has launched a dedicated bond-purchase scheme worth
750 billion euros.
• It has been launched in a bid to stop a pandemic-induced financial rout shredding the euro
zone's economy and renew concerns about the bloc's viability.
• The scheme would bring Europe’s planned purchases to 1.1 trillion euro with the newly agreed
buys alone worth 6% of the euro area's GDP.
2.138 Union Minister of Women and Child Development has informed about Scheme for
Adolescent Girls (SAG)
[Gender Issues]
• Recently, Union Minister of Women and Child Development has informed about Scheme for
Adolescent Girls (SAG).
About Scheme for Adolescent Girls (SAG)
• It is a sub-scheme under Umbrella Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Scheme.
• The scheme provides self-development and empowerment to improve nutrition and health
status, promoting awareness about health, hygiene, nutrition, Adolescent Reproductive and
Sexual Health (ARSH) for out-of-school girls between the age group of 11-14 years.
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2.139 CIPET to providing Skilling 5 Lakh persons and 5 Lakh industries in 2019-2024 period,
against 3 Lakh each in previous 5 years
• Recently, Union Minister of Chemicals & Fertilizers has informed that Central Institute of
Plastics Engineering and Technology (CIPET) has made an ambitious plan of skilling of five
Lakh persons as well as five Lakh Technology Support Service to the polymer industry during
the period of 2019-24.
• Main objectives of the plan includes
o Development and production of the state-of-art user environment friendly pesticides
formulations,
o Promotion of efficient application technologies as per emerging demands,
o Information dissemination of safe manufacturing practices,quality assurances and
judicious use of pesticides,
o Human resource development through specialized training in the field of pesticide Science
& Technology.
• The vision of the plan has included
o Impact Skill Training (long Term-Short Term) to 500000 (Five Lakh) students during (2019-
24)
o Introduction of M.S/M.Tech programmes in the areas of Polymer/Plastics,
o Introduction of new Skill Training in new subjects in the other areas of Petrochemical
sector (rubber,Technical Textiles & Specially Chemicals) and
o Certification for all CIPET centres through Bureau of Indian Standards
o Setting up of 3 Innovex Labs at CIEPT SARP in the emerging areas of Polymer Science
&Technology
• He has also informed that 3.13 Lakh person and 3.26 Lakh Technology Support Service were
provided during 2014-19.
2.140 DPIIT has taken various initiatives for Strengthening Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Regime
in India
• Recently, Government has informed that India’s ranking in Global Innovation Index (GII) has
improved from 81 in 2015 to 52 in 2019.
• Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade has taken various initiatives to
strengthen Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Regime in India such as
o Legislative improvements,
o Modernization of IP offices,
o Manpower augmentation,
o Use of IT and technology in e-filing of applications,
o Acceptance of email in all Indian Patent Office (IPO) transactions,
o Online delivery of certificates of grant/registration of patent,
o Trademark and designs in digital format,
o Use of video-conferencing for hearing of IP applications,
o SMS alert to give updates,
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o Expedited examination of IP applications,
o Spreading awareness in IPR,
o India’s accession to the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) administered
treaties and
o Signing of pilot Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) project with Japan in December 2019.
2.141 7.1% CAGR recorded in trade with India’s FTA and PTA partner countries
• Recently, Union minister of Commerce and Industry has informed that India’s bilateral Free
Trade Agreements (FTAs) or Preferential Trade Agreements (PTAs) with partner countries has
recorded CAGR of 7.1%.
• The countries include Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, Thailand, Singapore, Japan, Bhutan, Nepal,
Republic of Korea and Malaysia.
• FTA in iron and steel has seen growth in India Korea Comprehensive Economic Partnership
Agreement (CEPA) and India Japan (CEPA).
• Plastics have seen growth in the case of India Singapore Comprehensive Economic
Cooperation Agreement (CECA).
• Auto-motives have seen growth in the case of India Malaysia CECA.
2.142 Implementation of 'One Nation, One Ration Card' Scheme

[Social Justice]
• Recently, Union minister of consumer affairs has informed about "Integrated Management
of Public Distribution System (IM-PDS)".
• Objective - To introduce nation-wide portability of ration card holders under National Food
Security Act, 2013 (NFSA), through ‘One Nation One Ration Card' system.
• The system has been enabled under the ‘Targeted Public Distribution System (TPDS)’ which
is governed under the provisions of the National Food security Act, 2013 (NFSA).
• Under the system the migratory ration card holders can lift their entitled food grains from any
Fair Price Shop (FPS) of their choice in the country.
• They can utilize the facility by using their existing/same ration card issued in their home States/
UTs after biometric authentication on electronic Point of Sale (ePoS) devices installed at the
FPSs.
2.143 Minister of state informs about development of Entrepreneurship in the Country

• Recently, Minister of State for Skill Development and Entrepreneurship has informed about
various initiatives taken by ministry to promote culture of entrepreneurship in youth in
India.
• HE has informed about PMYUVA, NEAS and ‘Economic Empowerment of Women
Entrepreneurs and Start-ups by Women’ initiatives.
• He has also informed about various schemes implemented by various ministries for
entrepreneurship development

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o Micro Units Development and Refinance Agency or MUDRA and Stand Up India Scheme
implemented by Department of Financial Services (Ministry of Finance) has been providing
financial assistance in form of loan to entrepreneurs,
o Start-up Village Entrepreneurship Programme – Implemented through Ministry of Rural
Development.
o Rashtriya Mahila Kosh – Implemented through Ministry of Women and Child Development.
About Pradhan Mantri Yuva Udyaimta Vikas Abhiyaan (PM YUVA)
• The scheme has focused on students/trainees and alumni coming out from skilling ecosystem
such as Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), Polytechnics, Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Kendras
(PMKKs) and Jan Shikshan Sansthans (JSS).
• Aim – To create an enabling ecosystem for Entrepreneurship development through
Entrepreneurship education and training, Advocacy and easy access to entrepreneurship
support network and Promoting social enterprises for inclusive growth.
• Implemented by - Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship (MSDE).
• Duration of the scheme – 2016-17 to 2020-21.
About National Entrepreneurship Awards Scheme (NEAS)
• The awards had been conferred since 2016 for aspiring first generation entrepreneurs
including women and those individuals/ organizations who are working as eco-system builder
in the field of entrepreneurship development.
• Aim – To promote a culture of entrepreneurship among India’s youth and inspire them to set-
up their own enterprises and create employment opportunities for others.
About ‘Economic Empowerment of Women Entrepreneurs and Start-ups by Women’
• The pilot project has been launched by Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship
(MSDE) in collaboration with the Deutsche Gesellschaftfür Internationale Zusammenarbeit
(GIZ) (Germany).
• The project has been implemented in the North Eastern Region (Assam, Meghalaya and
Manipur), Rajasthan and Telangana.
Background
• Government has formulated Second National Policy for Skill Development and
Entrepreneurship, 2015.
• National Skill Development Policy was formulated in 2009.
• The primary objective of the policy is to meet the challenge of skilling at scale with speed,
standard (quality) and sustainability.
• It aims to provide an umbrella framework for all skilling activities being carried out within the
country, to align them to common standards and link skilling with demand centres.
2.144 Lok Sabha passes Indian Institutes of Information Technology Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2020
• Recently, Lok Sabha has passed Indian Institutes of Information Technology Laws
(Amendment) Bill, 2020.
• It has amended the Indian Institutes of Information Technology Act of 2014 and Indian
Institutes of Information Technology (Public-Private Partnership) Act, 2017.

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• The bill has granted statutory status to five Indian Institutes of Information Technology in
Public Private Partnership mode at Surat, Bhopal, Bhagalpur, Agartala and Raichur.
• It would encourage IIITs to promote the study of Information Technology in the country
through innovative and quality methods
• It would also entitle the institutes to use the nomenclature of Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech)
or Master of Technology (M.Tech) or Ph.D degree as issued by a University or Institution of
National Importance.
2.145 Setting Up of National Technical Textile Mission

• Recently, government has approved the proposal for creation of National Technical Textiles
Mission for a period of 4 years (2020-21 to 2023-24).
• The mission would be working for holistic development of entire technical textile sector on
pan-India basis.
• Aim – To generate 2 lakhs jobs in organized/ unorganized sector in the country.
• Focus – To develop usage of technical textiles in various flagship missions, programs of the
country including strategic sectors.
• Mission has proposed to take up promotion of innovation amongst young engineering
/technology/science standards and graduates along with creation of innovation and
incubation centers and promotion of start-up and Ventures.
• It would also develop suitable equipment for environmentally sustainable disposal of used
technical textiles, with emphasis on safe disposal of medical and hygiene wastes.
2.146 India is 3rd largest producer of Electricity in the World

• According to International Energy Agency (IEA), India is the 3rd largest producer of electricity
in the world in 2019.
• India has ranked at 106th position in terms of per capita consumption in 2017.
2.147 Draft National Water Policy

• Recently, Minister of State for Jal Shakti has informed that a committee under Mihir Shah
has been formulated to revise the National Water Policy.
Government has taken up various initiative under the National Water policy 2012 –
• Central Ground Water Board has prepared a conceptual document titled “Master Plan for
Artificial Recharge to Ground Water in India” during the year 2013, which envisages
construction of different types of artificial recharge and rainwater harvesting structures in the
country.
• A web based Water Resources Information System (India WRIS) has been set up and all
unclassified data of Central Water Commission and Central Ground Water Board have been
uploaded on the website.
• Central Water Commission has completed a study titled “Reassessment of Water Availability
in India using Space Inputs”.
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• National Water Informatics Centre has been established under National Hydrology Project.
Relevance
• Government has informed about the shortage of Drinking water –
o 81.76% rural habitations having 77.54% population have provision of minimum 40 litre per
capita per day (lpcd) of potable drinking water
o 15.32% rural habitations having 19.23% population have service level of less than 40 lpcd
potable water
o 2.91% rural habitations having 3.24% population with water sources having quality issues.
Background
• National Water Policy was formulated in 1987.
• It has been revised in the year 2002 and 2012.
2.148 National Supercomputing Mission: a transformative approach in supercomputing

[Human Development]
• Recently, government has informed that 2020-21 has been an important year for India’s
National Supercomputing Mission (NSM).
• Government has been planning to install three more supercomputers by April 2020, one each
at IIT-Kanpur, JN Centre for Advanced Scientific Research, Bengaluru, and IIT-Hyderabad.
Relevance
• Government in 2019 had assembled its first indigenously built supercomputer ‘Param Shivay’.
• It was installed at IIT (BHU).
• Param Shakti and Param Brahma supercomputers were installed at IIT-Kharagpur and IISER,
Pune.
• These supercomputers have been equipped with applications from domains like Weather and
Climate, Computational Fluid Dynamics, Bioinformatics, and Material science.
About National Supercomputing Mission
• The mission has been envisaged to empower national academic and R&D institutions by
installing a vast supercomputing grid.
• It has been comprised of more than 70 high-performance computing facilities.
• It has been targeted to establish a network of supercomputers ranging from few Tera Flops
(TF) to Hundreds of Tera Flops (TF) in academic and research institutions of National
importance across the country by 2022.
• It would also establish three systems with greater than or equal to 3 Peta Flops (PF) for the
same.
• It also includes development of highly professional High Performance Computing (HPC) human
resource for meeting challenges of development of these applications.
• Objective –
o To make India one of the world leaders in Supercomputing and to enhance India’s
capability in solving grand challenge problems of national and global relevance
o To empower our scientists and researchers with state-of-the-art supercomputing facilities
and enable them to carry out cutting-edge research in their respective domains

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o To minimize redundancies and duplication of efforts, and optimize investments in
supercomputing
o To attain global competitiveness and ensure self-reliance in the strategic area of
supercomputing technology.
• Guided by - Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) and Department of
Science and Technology (DST).
• Implemented by - Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC), Pune and the
Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru.
2.149 S&P pegs cost of COVID-19 outbreak at $620 billion for Asia-Pacific region
• Recently, Standards & Poor (S&P) Global Ratings has estimated the cost of COVID-19
outbreak for 14 Asia-Pacific countries including India at USD 620 billion.
India Specific Estimation
• It has slashed down India’s growth projection to 5.2% from 6.5% in 2020-21.
• It has downgrade the growth to 6.9% from 7% for year 2021-22.
• For year 2022-23 and 2023-24 growth rate has been estimated to 7%.
2.150 Coronavirus could cost airlines $252 billion revenue in 2020: IATA
• Recently, International Air Transport Association (IATA) has mentioned that if the covid
pandemic last for three months there could be a revenue loss for airlines around USD 252
billion.
• It has mentioned that passenger revenue would be dropped down by around 44% from 2019.
• It had earlier estimated the loss to be around USD 113 billion.
2.151 Cost of COVID-19 India lockdown pegged at Rs 9 lakh crore

• Recently, British brokerage Barclays has announced that COVID-19 breakdown would cost
India around USD 120 billion (approximately Rs 9 lakh crore).
• It would be around 4 per cent of the GDP.
• It has also revised down India’s growth to 3.5% from 5.2% for financial year 2020-21.
• It has estimated the fiscal deficit to come at 5 per cent of GDP.
• It was targeted at 3.5 per cent in budget 2020.
2.152 Coronavirus to shave off Rs 40k cr everyday from Indian economy: CARE Ratings
• Recently, CARE Ratings has released a report according to which 21-day long national
lockdown could lead to 80 per cent production loss.
• The economy would take a hit of Rs 35000 – 40000 crore on a daily basis.
• Q4 growth for year 2019 had reduced down to 1.5-2.5 per cent.

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2.153 Finance Minister announces Rs 1.70 Lakh Crore relief package under Pradhan Mantri Garib
Kalyan Yojana for the poor to help them fight the battle against Corona Virus
• Recently, Union Finance minister has announced Rs 1.70 Lakh Crore relief package under
Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana for the poor to help them fight the battle against
Corona Virus.
• Central Government has ordered State Governments to use Building and Construction
Workers Welfare Fund to provide relief to Construction Workers.
• The State Government has been asked to utilize the funds available under District Mineral
Fund (DMF) for supplementing and augmenting facilities of medical testing, screening and
other requirements in connection with preventing the spread of COVID-19 pandemic as well
as treating the patients affected with the pandemic.
Following components were announced in the package –
• Insurance cover of Rs 50 Lakh per health worker fighting COVID-19 would be provided under
Insurance Scheme
• Under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Ann Yojana 80 crore poor people will get 5 kg wheat or
rice and 1 kg of preferred pulses for free per month from April to June.
• 20.40 crores Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) women account holders to get Rs 500
per month from April to June.
• The first installment of Rs 2,000 due for 2020-21, under the PM KISAN Yojana would be paid
in April 2020.
• MNREGA wage has been raised to Rs 202 per day from Rs 182 per day.
• Gas cylinders would be provided free of cost to 8 crore poor families from April to June.
• Government has proposed to pay 24 percent of the monthly wages for wage-earners below
Rs 15000 per month into their PF accounts from April-June.
• An ex-gratia of Rs 1000 to 3 crore poor senior citizen, poor widows and poor disabled has been
announced.
• Employees’ Provident Fund Regulations would be amended to include Pandemic as the reason
to allow non-refundable advance of 75 percent of the amount or three months of the wages,
whichever is lower, from their accounts.
2.154 High Level Committee under the Chairmanship of Union Home Minister approves Rs. 5,751.27
crore of additional Central assistance to 8 States
[Human Development]
• Recently, High Level Committee under the Chairmanship of Union Home Minister has
approved Rs. 5,751.27 crore of additional central assistance.
• The assistance has been approved under National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
• It has been provided to 8 States – Bihar, Kerala, Maharashtra, Nagaland, Odisha, Rajasthan and
West Bengal.
• These funds have been realized for floods, landslides, cyclone ‘Bulbul’, drought during 2019
and for drought (rabi) of 2018-19.
About National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF)

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• It is a fund managed by the Central Government for meeting the expenses for emergency
response, relief and rehabilitation due to any threatening disaster situation or disaster.
• Constituted to supplement the funds of the State Disaster Response Funds (SDRF) of the states
to facilitate immediate relief in case of calamities of a severe nature.
• National Calamity Contingency Fund (NCCF) was renamed as National Disaster Response
Fund (NDRF) with the enactment of the Disaster Management Act in 2005.
2.155 G20 nations vow to inject USD 5 trillion to fight Covid-19

• Recently, Leaders of the Group of 20 or G-20 major economies has pledged to infuse over
USD 5 trillion into the global economy.
• It has also requested the WHO to assess the gaps in pandemic preparedness, in cooperation
with relevant organizations, and submit a report before a joint meeting of G-20 finance and
health ministers.
2.156 Coronavirus: SIDBI to provide loans up to ₹50 lakh to MSEs manufacturing medical supplies
• Recently, Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has announced SIDBI
Assistance to Facilitate Emergency (SAFE) scheme.
Key Features of the scheme
• It would provide loans of up to Rs 50 lakh to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) that are
manufacturing medical supplies for fighting the novel coronavirus (COVID-19).
• The scheme would offer loans to MSEs at a fixed interest rate of 5 per cent.
• The tenure for maximum loan repayment would be five years.
• The loans offered would be collateral-free and will be sanctioned within 48 hours of applying
and submission of documents.
• MSEs engaged in manufacturing of hand sanitizers, masks, gloves, head gear, body suits, shoe-
covers, ventilators, goggles and testing labs would be eligible for loans under the scheme.
2.157 India proposes SAARC health e-platform to exchange info, expertise to tackle COVID-19
• Recently, India has proposed the creation of an electronic platform for countries in South
Asia to exchange information and expertise to counter the Coronavirus pandemic.
• The meet was a follow up of the virtual meeting of leaders that has taken place earlier in March
2020.
2.158 Himachal Pradesh government forms ‘HP COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund’ for health
workers
• Recently, Himachal Pradesh State Government has created a ‘HP COVID-19 Solidarity
Response Fund’.
• It has provided personal protection equipment to the health workers and other related
officials.
• State government has also launched Active Case Finding Campaign for COVID 19 patients.

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• Under the campaign, ASHA worker with two person’s team would be providing information
regarding symptoms of Covid-19 to the people at their doorsteps.
2.159 Jharkhand government launches PRAGYAAM app to issue e-passes to everyone associated
with delivery of essential services amid lockdown
• Recently, Jharkhand government has launched PRAGYAAM app.
• The app has issued e-passes to everyone associated with delivery of essential services amid
lockdown.
• The passes have been issued by the District Transport Officers.
2.160 West Bengal Govt extends insurance coverage of Care givers to COVID-19 patients to Rs 10
lakh
• Recently, West Bengal government has extended insurance coverage of care givers to COVID-
19 patients to 10 lakh rupees.
• The insurance coverage was earlier providing 5 lakh rupees to care givers.
2.161 ADB announces 100 million US Dollars funding for Indian infrastructure sector
[Human Development]
• Recently, Asian Development Bank (ADB) has announced a 100 million US Dollars funding for
the Indian infrastructure sector.
• The funding would be provided through the government-promoted National Investment and
Infrastructure Fund-NIIF.
• The move would help NIIF commit money to private equity fund managers who have been
struggling to raise money from overseas sources.
About National Investment and Infrastructure Fund-NIIF
• It is an investor-owned fund manager, anchored by the Government of India (GoI) in
collaboration with leading global and domestic institutional investors.
• The funds are registered as Alternative Investment Fund (AIF) with the Securities and Exchange
Board of India (SEBI).
2.162 Gujarat Education dept to introduce home learning process following lockdown
• Recently, Gujarat Education department has introduced home learning process.
• The students from class III to class VIII would be provided weekly learning material by using
various social media platforms, including WhatsAap.
• It would be provided for the next four to five weeks.
2.163 Millions of people could be driven into poverty in East Asia and Pacific: World Bank
[Poverty Alleviation]
• Recently, World Bank has informed that the economic slowdown due to Covid-19 pandemic
could throw millions of people into poverty in China and other East Asian-Pacific countries.

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• It has also informed that the region could suffer its sharpest downturn since the devastating
1997-98 Asian currency crisis.
• The World Bank report has projected that growth of East Asia and Pacific region would slow
down to 2.1 per cent in 2020.
• It was earlier projected at 5.8 per cent in 2019.
2.164 Government extends existing foreign trade policy (2015-20) for one year till March 2021
[Export Import Policy]
• Recently, Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) has extended existing foreign trade
policy (2015-20) for one year till March 2021.
• It has informed that exports during April-February (2019-20) dipped by 1.5 per cent to 292.91
billion dollars.
• It has also informed that Imports during April-February (2019-20) declined by 7.30 per cent to
436 billion dollars.
Relevance
• Recently, government has also extended validity of Duty Free Import Authorisation (DFIA) and
Export Promotion Capital Goods (EPCG) authorizations for import purposes.
• EPCG is an export promotion scheme under which an exporter can import certain amount of
capital goods at zero duty for upgrading technology related with exports.
• In Duty Free Import Authorization (DFIA) scheme, exporters are allowed to import certain
goods like sugar at zero duty.
2.165 India's February core sector growth at 11-month high of 5.5%

• Recently, Ministry of Commerce and Industry has released a data on core sector for the month
of February.
• According to release, India’s eight infrastructure sectors have grown at an 11-month high of
5.5% in February 2020.
• The Eight Core Industries have comprised of 40.27 per cent of the weight of items included in
the Index of Industrial Production (IIP).
Core Sectors which has seen an expansion from February Decline in cumulative growth
2019 during April 2019 – February
2020
Coal production 10.3% 1.2%
Petroleum Refinery 7.4% Increased by 0.3%
Fertilizers 2.9% Increased by 4.1%
Cement 8.6% Increased by 1.8%
Electricity 11% Increased by 1.8%
Core Sectors which has seen a decline from February 2019
Crude Oil production 6.4% 6%
Natural Gas 9.6% 4.8%
Steel production 0.4% Increased by 5%

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2.166 India may see up to 13 lakh cases of COVID-19 by mid-May, warn scientists
• Recently, COV-IND-19 Study Group has compiled a study on number of expected COVID-19
cases in India.
• It has employed epidemiological techniques and statistical modeling data from Italy and the
US to arrive at estimations.
• If no intervention would be made i.e. there is no curb on travel, movement and social
gatherings, cases could surge to more than 20 lakhs by mid May 2020.
• If extremely strict, draconian measures such as lockdown, isolation and travel bans are
executed without a flaw, cases could plummet to as few as 1 per 100,000 or around 13,800
cases by May 2020.
2.167 About 33% of Indian employees face age-based bias at workplaces: Report
[Human Development]
• Recently, JobBuzz has released a survey to understand the nuances of bias and diversity at
the Indian workplaces.
• The workforce at most companies comprises of Baby Boomers, Gen X, Gen Y and the
Millennials
• 33 per cent of Indian employees face or have faced age-based bias at their workplace.
• 17 per cent have faced bias because of their physical appearance.
• 14 per cent claiming they faced prejudice because of their gender.
• 15 per cent of others have faced bias on the basis of their culture or religion.
• About 79 per cent of respondents have mentioned that they were not denied a promotion
because of their gender.
• 62 per cent have pointed out that after the #Metoo movement workplaces have become
more sensitive towards women.
2.168 Covid-19 impact: CII sets up a fund for MSMEs

• Recently, Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has released CII COVID Rehabilitation and
Relief Fund (CRR).
• It has been setup to assist rehabilitation of small enterprises and Micro, Small & Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs).
Relevance
• CII has requested for additional ad-hoc sanction of working capital to the tune of 25 per cent
of sanctioned limit as relief measure.
• It has also suggested deferment of Equated Monthly Installments (EMIs) and interest rate on
working capital.
• It has proposed that the government should draw up contingency plans for three periods – till
March 31, for next two months till May 31 and then for next 2 months till July 31.

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2.169 Warm, humid climate linked to slower COVID-19 transmission: MIT Study
• Recently, Scientists including Qasim Bukhari from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology
(MIT) in the US has assessed data on the number of COVID-19 infections in different parts of
the world.
• They have compared the data with two parameters of weather from all the regions’
temperature and humidity.
• The study has shown that 90 per cent of the novel coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2) transmissions
until March 22, 2020 have occurred in regions with temperature between 3 and 17 degrees
Celsius.
• The regions had 4 to 9 gram per cubic meter (g/m3) of absolute humidity (a measure of the
amount of water vapor per cubic meter of atmosphere).
• Total number of cases in countries with mean temperature greater than 18 degree Celsius and
absolute humidity more than 9 g/m3 in January-February and early March is less than 6 per
cent.
• In USA Northern (cooler) states have much higher growth rates compared to southern
(warmer) states.
• Asian countries experiencing monsoon might see a slowdown in transmission as absolute
humidity is generally above 10g/m3 during monsoon.
2.170 CRISIL cuts GDP growth forecast for fiscal 2021 to 3.5 per cent
• Recently, CRISIL has slashed its Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth forecast for fiscal 2021
to 3.5 per cent.
• It was earlier projected at 5.2 per cent.
2.171 Economic growth may fall to 2.6% in FY21 during lockdown: SBI Ecowrap
• Recently, SBI Research's Ecowrap has announced that GDP growth for 2019-20 could see a
downward revision from 5 per cent to 4.5 per cent.
• According to the report, the total cost of lockdown could be at least Rs 8.03 lakh crore in
nominal terms, an income loss of Rs 1.77 trillion and a loss in capital income of Rs 1.69 trillion.
2.172 Aviation firms may suffer losses of up to USD 3.6 billion: CAPA
• Recently, CAPA has estimated that airlines could incur a loss of USD 3.3 billion to USD 3.6
billion (Rs. 24,750 crore to Rs. 27,000 crore) in the April to June 2020.
Key estimations
• Airport and concessionaires would see a loss of USD 1.50-1.75 billion.
• Ground handlers would see a loss of USD 80-90 million.
• A loss of USD 1.75 billion would be incurred in first quarter of the 2021.

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2.173 Coronavirus tracker: Microsoft launches COVID-19 tracking website
• Recently, Microsoft Bing team has launched bing.com/covid website to provide up-to-date
infection statistics for each country.
• Data in the website has been aggregated from sources like the World Health Organization
(WHO), the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the European Centre for
Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC).
2.174 Media and entertainment sector grew about 9%, says FICCI-EY report
• Recently, Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI) has released a
report titled “The era of consumer A.R.T. – Acquisition, Retention and Transaction”.
Key highlights of the report
• According to the report, Indian Media and Entertainment (M&E) sector has grown by about 9
per cent to reach Rs 1.82 trillion ($25.7 billion) in 2019.
• It has expected an annual growth of 10 per cent around Rs 2.4 trillion ($34 billion) for 2022.
• Television and Print have remained the two largest segment of M&E sector followed by digital
media.
• Digital media has overtaken filmed entertainment in 2019 to become the third-largest
segment of the M&E sector.
• Online gaming has retained its position as the fastest growing segment on the back of
transaction-based games.
2.175 CSIR announces innovation awards for school children

• Recently, Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR) has announced Innovation Awards
for School Children (CIASC).
• The awards would support scientific temperament and encourage innovative spirit among the
students.
• Eligibility - Students of up to Class XII and below 18 years of age as on 31st January 2020.
• The winner will be awarded a cash prize of Rs. 1,00,000 followed by two runner up Rs. 50,000
each, three third prizes of Rs. 30,000 each, four prizes for fourth rankers of Rs. 20,000 each
and five fifth prizes of Rs. 10,000 each.
About CIASC
• CIASC award was initiated in the year 2002 on the occasion of the World Intellectual Property
Day.
• It is an annual national competition to harness the creative and innovative spirit of school
children.
2.176 COVID 19: SC directs States, UTs to set up panel to consider release of prisoners on parole
[Social Justice]

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• Recently, Supreme Court has directed all states and Union Territories to set up high level
committees to determine class of prisoners who could be released on parole for four to six
weeks.
• The committee has been set-up to avoid overcrowding in jails so as to safeguard against the
spread of coronavirus pandemic.
• The court has informed that the prisoners convicted of or charged with offences having jail
term of up to seven years can be given parole to decongest jails.
2.177 WEF invites India to join its Covid Action Platform

• Recently, World Economic Forum (WEF) has invited India to join its COVID Action Platform
(CAP).
About COVID Action Platform
• It has been created with the support of the WHO.
• It is open to all businesses and industry groups, as well as other stakeholders including the
governments, aiming to integrate their efforts for a joint action.
• It focuses on three priorities –
o Galvanize the global business community for collective action.
o Protect people’s livelihoods and facilitate business continuity.
o Mobilize cooperation and business support for the COVID-19 response.
2.178 Coronavirus: UBS cuts India's FY21 real GDP growth forecast from 5.1% to 4%
• Recently, UBS securities have reduced down India’s GDP to 4%.
• It was earlier projected at 5%.
• The real GDP growth has been projected at 2.5% for June 2020.
2.179 WHO, UN Foundation and Partners Launch First-of-its-Kind COVID-19 Solidarity Response
Fund
• Recently, UN Foundation (registered in the United States) and the Swiss Philanthropy
Foundation (registered in Switzerland) has launched COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund.
• It has been launched in collaboration with WHO.
2.180 CM Yogi Transfers First Instalment to 20 Lakh People Under Shramik Bharan Poshan Yojana
• Recently, Uttar Pradesh government has launched ‘Shramik Bharan-Poshan Yojana’.
• The scheme would provide relief to the daily wage laborers & small vendors.
• Under the scheme Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh has transferred the first installment of Rs
1,000 in the accounts of over 20 lakh daily wage laborers via DBT.
2.181 Govt forms ministerial-level committee to resolve supply-chain issues


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• Recently, government has set-up a ministerial level committee under the chairmanship of
Union Defence Minister and Home minister to mitigate supply chain problems in India.
• PMO has also constituted 10 member committee under Principal Secretary P.K.Mishra to
suggest measures to ramp up healthcare.
2.182 49-day lockdown necessary to stop coronavirus resurgence in India: Study

• Recently, The paper titled 'Age-structured impact of social distancing on the Covid-19
epidemic in India' has been published on open-access preprint repository ArXiv.
• It has been prepared by Indian origin Ronojoy Adhikari and Rajesh Singh from the University
of Cambridge in the UK.
• The model has been first to include age and social contact structure of the Indian population
while assessing the impact of social distancing on the Covid-19 pandemic.
• According to the paper, a three week lockdown is not sufficient for containment.
• It has predicted that a flat 49 day lockdown with periodic relaxation may reduce COVID-19
insurgencies in India.
2.183 Developing nations need $2.5 trillion to fight Covid-19 impact, says Unctad report
• Recently, United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) has released a
report titled “The Covid-19 Shock to Developing Countries”.
• According to the report, the developing and poorest countries including India would need USD
2.5 trillion from international financial organizations for combating the Covid-19 pandemic.
• The report has predicted that the world may enter into recession after the pandemic with
exception of China and possibly India.
Relevance
• According to the TDR’s (Trade and Development Report), portfolio or hot money outflows
from major emerging economies have surged to USD 59 billion during February and March
2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
• In 2008, during Global Financial Crisis the portfolio was USD 26 billion.
2.184 Indian economy can contract 2.6%; US over 11% in worst case in 2020: Nomura
• Recently, Nomura has released a report titled 'COVID-19’s impact on the world economy'.
• It has found that in worst case scenario USA could see a decline of 11.3% in year on year
growth.
• It has lowered the 2020 GDP growth forecast of India to 4.5%.
• In worst case scenario India could contract to 2.6%.

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3 GA + Finance in news
3.1 Govt introduces bill to amend banking laws to strengthen cooperative banks
[Recent Development in financial sector]
• The Government has introduced a bill in Lok Sabha which seeks to protect the interest of small
depositors by bringing cooperative banks under the RBI regulations.
• The proposed law seeks to enforce banking regulation guidelines of the RBI in cooperative
banks.
Proposals under the Bill
• According to the bill, the administrative issues will still be guided by the Registrar of
Cooperative Societies.
• It proposes to bring cooperative banks on par with developments in the banking sector
through better management and proper regulation of cooperative banks so as to ensure that
affairs of cooperative banks are conducted in a manner that protects the interest of
depositors.
• It further proposes to strengthen cooperative banks by increasing professionalism, enabling
access to capital, improving governance and ensuring sound banking through the RBI.
What is the current scenario?
• Cooperative banks are currently under the dual control of the Registrar of Cooperative
Societies and RBI.
• The role of registrar of cooperative societies includes incorporation, registration,
management, audit, supersession of board and liquidation and RBI is responsible for
regulatory functions such maintaining cash reserve and capital adequacy, among others.
Background
• The decision assumes significance in the wake of a scam in the Punjab and Maharashtra
Cooperative (PMC) Bank, which affected lakhs of customers who are facing difficulty in
withdrawing their money due to restrictions imposed by the RBI.
• The PMC Bank was found to have given over Rs 6,700 crore loan to a single realty company
HDIL through alleged fraudulent means and also hid the stress from the RBI by creating
separate books of accounts.
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3.2 Govt planning to launch lottery offer under the GST from 1 April, 2020
[GST]
• The government is planning to launch monthly lottery offer under the Goods and Services Tax
(GST) from April 1st 2020.
• This is to be done by conducting lucky draws for invoices of all business to customer (B2C)
transactions.
• The offers would range between ₹10 lakh and ₹1 crore.
About the Lottery Scheme
• It is being envisaged by the revenue department to encourage customers to take bills for every
purchase, which will in turn help the government in curbing GST evasion.
• Under the scheme, the revenue department will conduct monthly lucky draws which will
have one bumper prize, while there would be second and third prizes state wise.
• The consumers will have to scan and upload any B2C invoice using a mobile app, which is being
developed by GST Network (GSTN).
• There would not be any threshold on the invoice value to be eligible for lucky draw.
Relevance of the scheme
• It is expected that lottery scheme would incentivise customers to ask for bill or invoice while
making purchases.
• As per the plan, the money for the lottery scheme would come from the consumer welfare
fund, where the proceeds of anti-profiteering cases are transferred.
GST Collection

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3.3 PAN card holders could be fined ₹10,000 for not linking it with Aadhaar
[Recent developments in Financial sectors]
• The income tax department might impose a penalty of ₹10,000 for using an inoperative
Permanent Account Number.
• An inoperative PAN Account is the one which is not linked with Aadhaar card within the
deadline of March 31st 2020.
Background
• The income tax department had announced last year that all unlinked PAN cards will be
declared “inoperative.”
• Now, it has issued a new notification stating that action will be taken against the inoperative
PAN cardholders under the Income Tax Act for not furnishing PAN.
3.4 Bank credit growth dips to 8.5 per cent in January: RBI data
[RBI Functions]
• According to the recent data released by Reserve Bank of India, credit growth has declined to
8.5 per cent in January from 13.5 per cent in the year-ago period.
• This has been led by a sharp slowdown in loans to the services sector.

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• In January 2019, Growth in advances to the services sector has decelerated to 8.9 per cent
from 23.9 per cent.
• Bank loan growth to non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) slowed to 32.2 per cent as
compared t0 48.3 per cent a year-ago.
• Personal loans segment has grown by 16.9 per cent - Within personal loans:
1. credit to housing segment grew by 17.5 per cent from 18.4 per cent.
2. education loan showed a negative growth of 3.1 per cent as against a negative growth of 2.3
per cent in January 2019.
• According to the latest quarterly statistics on deposits and credit of banks, bank loan growth
decelerated to 7.4 per cent in the October-December, 2019 from 12.9 per cent the year-ago
quarter.
• During the quarter, loans by public sector banks grew by 3.7 per cent while credit from
private sector banks saw a growth of 13.1 per cent.
• In the fortnight ended February 14, 2020, bank credit grew by 6.3 per cent to Rs 100.41 lakh
crore, from Rs 94.403 lakh crore in the year-ago fortnight.
3.5 India factory activity growth slows in Feb on weak demand - PMI
• The Purchasing Managers' Index has been recently released by Nikkei Manufacturing.
• The data has been compiled by IHS Markit.
• According to it, India's factory activity growth slowed in February 2020 from the previous
month's eight-year high due to a modest weakening in demand and output, although overall
conditions remained firm.
• PMI has fallen to 54.5 last month from January's 55.3.
• It has stayed above the 50-point threshold mark, which separates growth from contraction,
for over two years.
3.6 Indian VC industry sees record $10 bn investment in 2019: Report

[Primary and Secondary Market]
• Recently India Venture Capital Report 2020 has been released.
• It has been prepared by private firm “Bain & Company's” in partnership with Indian Private
Equity & Venture Capital Association (IVCA).
Findings of the report
• According to it, there has been 30 per cent increase in deal volume and 20 per cent rise in
average deal size in 2019 over the previous year.
• The Indian venture capital industry invested record $10 billion in 2019, which is driven by
increased deal volume and larger average deal sizes.
• According to the report, this amount was 55 per cent higher than the money invested by the
industry in 2018.
• The dry powder availability for VC investing in India was at an all-time high of USD 7 billion
at the end of 2019.
What is dry powder?

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• The term 'dry powder' refers to cash reserves kept on hand by a company, venture capital firm
or individual to cover future obligations.
3.7 RBI receives ₹1.71 trillion in LTRO

[RBI Functions]
• The Reserve Bank of India has recently announced that it has received ₹1.71 trillion in the
third long-term repo operation (LTRO).
• This LTRO was conducted for an amount of ₹25,000 crore.
• RBI has received 66 bids in the three-year tenor LTRO, which has reversal date on March 1,
2023.
• As against this, the RBI allotted an amount of ₹25,028 crore, with a pro-rata allotment
percentage to 14.54%.
Background
• In last month's bi-monthly policy review, the RBI had announced term repurchase agreements
(repos) of one-year and three-year tenors for a total amount of ₹1 trillion at the policy repo
rate, from the fortnight beginning 15 February.
What is an LTRO?
• Under LTRO, RBI provides longer term (one- to three-year) loans to banks at the prevailing
repo rate.
• As banks get long-term funds at lower rates, their cost of funds falls. In turn, they reduce
interest rates for borrowers.
• LTROs are aimed at helping banks to reduce their lending rates, thereby quickening the
monetary policy transmission.
• These also help RBI to ensure that banks reduce their marginal cost of funds-based lending
rate, without reducing policy rates.
3.8 Around Rs 10.52-trn corporate debt at risk of default over slowdown: Report
• According to the recently released data by National Statistical Office (NSO), The GDP growth
in India has slowed down to a nearly seven-year low of 4.7 per cent in October-December
2019.
• The report has found that close to Rs 10.52 trillion of the corporate debt is at the risk of default
over the next three years, as Indian economy is grappling with a prolonged slowdown.
• In its second advance estimates released in the last week of February 2020 , The NSO has
pegged the economic growth at 5 per cent for FY2019-20.
• NSO has also stated that India’s gross domestic product (GDP) growth has slipped to nearly a
7-year-low of 4.7% in the December quarter, due to the contraction in investment and
manufacturing output.
• It has also observed that GDP growth is set to stagnate at 4.7% in the March quarter (Q4).
3.9 IEX to launch trading platform Indian Gas Exchange


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• India’s leading power trading platform Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) has started looking for
members and gas buyers for its natural gas trading platform - Indian Gas Exchange (IGX).
• IEX is planning an initial investment of Rs 10 crore for IGX over the next five years.
• IGX will be offering spot contract for the day-ahead market, which means gas will be delivered
the next day. The forward contract is for daily, weekly, monthly and fortnightly markets.
• IEX has 90 per cent share in the day-ahead power trading.
Background
• Currently, Liquified Natural Gas (LNG) is not regulated, both in terms of supply contracts and
pricing.
• Domestic gas prices are notified by the government and supply contracts for gas produced by
the government-owned companies are dictated by the government norms.
• It is important to note that the Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board (PNGRB) is yet
to come up with guidelines for gas trading in the country.
3.10 Govt collects ₹7.52 lakh cr direct tax in Apr-Jan

[Direct and Indirect Taxes]
• It has been recently informed in the Parliament that the government has collected over ₹7.52
lakh crore as direct taxes till 31 January of the current fiscal.
• The Revised Estimate (RE) has pegged the target for collection of direct taxes for the current
fiscal, which ends on March 31, at ₹11.7 lakh crore.
• It has also been informed that RE for current fiscal has projected revenue receipts at ₹18.50
lakh crore, lower than ₹19.62 lakh crore projected in the Budget.
• The fiscal deficit estimated for the current fiscal has been revised upwards to 3.8 per cent of
GDP, from the budgeted 3.3 per cent.
3.11 LLP settlement Scheme 2020 launched

• The government has announced a one-time settlement scheme for limited liability
partnerships (LLPs) that have yet to submit their statutory documents to gain immunity from
prosecution for defaults by filing pending documents.
• The scheme is called “Limited Liability Partnerships (LLP) Settlement Scheme, 2020”.
• It will allow a One-time condonation of delay in filing statutorily required documents with
the Registrar.
• LLPs are governed by the LLP Act, which is implemented by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
More about the scheme
• The Scheme will come into force on the 16th March, 2020 and will remain in force up to
13th June, 2020.
• It is aimed at those LLPs whose paid-up capital is Rs 1 lakh but accumulated late fees have
reached Rs 5 lakh or more making compliance prohibitive.
• The scheme would be applicable for submission for four types of forms – Forms 3, 4, 8 and 11.

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• Form 3 pertains to information about LLP agreement and changes while Form 4 relates to
notice of appointment, cessation, change in name/ address/ designation of a designated
partner or partner.
• Form 8 is for statement of account and solvency (annual or interim).
• It would be applicable to a “defaulting LLP” for filing overdue documents, which were due for
filing till 31st October, 2019 on a payment of a nominal additional fee of Rs 10/- per day for
the period of delay.
• This is in addition to any fee as is payable for filing of such document or return, subject to a
maximum amount of Rs. 5,000/- as additional fee per document.
Background
• A large number of LLPs have remained non-compliant with statutory filing of documents with
the registrar of companies due to piling up of late fees following inordinate delay.
• This move comes after several representations from the industry on the issue.
Relevance of the scheme
• The Scheme is being introduced in pursuance of the Government’s objective of providing
greater Ease of Living to the citizens of the country.
• It is expected to provide a significant relief and a window of opportunity for LLPs to abide by
the Law & conduct business accordingly.
• The scheme will benefit around 30,000 out of the total 120,000 LLPs in the country – which
are in a position where they can neither comply nor exit.
3.12 Cabinet approves Companies (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019

• The Union Cabinet has recently approved the Companies (Second Amendment) Bill, 2019 to
amend the Companies Act, 2013.
• The Bill is aimed at removing criminality under the Act in case of defaults which can be
determined objectively and which, otherwise, lack the element of fraud or do not involve
larger public interest.
• The Bill would remove criminality under the Act in case of defaults which can be determined
objectively and which, otherwise, lack the element of fraud or do not involve larger public
interest.
• This would also lead to further de-clogging of the criminal justice system in the country. The
Bill would also further ease of living for law abiding corporates.
• Earlier, the Companies (Amendment) Act, 2015 amended certain provisions of the Act to
remove difficulties faced in implementation of various provisions of the Act.
3.13 NABARD infuses Rs 1.46 lakh cr in rural banking system during current fiscal
[Financial Institutions - NABARD]
• National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) has infused 1.46 lakh crore
rupees in the rural banking system during the current fiscal.
• As on February 28, 2020, Rs 87,069 crore has been extended to cooperative banks and
regional rural banks in short-term refinance

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• In addition, long-term refinance of Rs 59,502 crore has also been provided to these banks as
well as other financial institutions.
• Regional rural banks have availed 14,141 crore rupees in short-term credit and 8,417 crore
rupees in long-term credit.
• In addition, other banks, including small finance banks, have obtained long-term refinance of
37,895 crore rupees.
• NABARD has also extended Rs 4,638 crore to NBFCs and MFIs so far in FY20.
What is short term and long-term finance?
• NABARD provides short-term refinance - which is essentially production credit, to banks to
allow farmers meet their operational costs.
• Long-term refinance - aimed at supporting sectors like dairy, poultry, fishery, farm
mechanisation, irrigation, and non-farm sectors, among others.
3.14 Lok Sabha passes direct tax dispute resolution scheme

• Lok Sabha has recently cleared the Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas Bill, 2020.
• The bill offers a scheme to settle 483,000 direct tax related disputes giving relief on part of
the amounts due as well as immunity from prosecution.
More about the Scheme
• The scheme is aimed at releasing about Rs 9.32 lakh crore stuck in 483,000 cases across
various fora including at the Commissioner (Appeals), Income Tax Appellate Tribunal (ITAT),
high courts, Supreme Court and debt recovery tribunals, besides reducing needless litigation
and associated expenses.
• Taxpayers willing to settle disputes will be allowed a complete waiver of interest and penalty
if they pay the entire amount of tax in dispute by March 31 this year, and by paying 10% more
if they opt to pay by June 30.
• Further, where arrears relate to disputed interest or penalty only, then 25% of the amount is
to be paid by March end, and 30% between April and June-end. The scheme will remain open
till June 30.
• In cases where the income tax department has filed an appeal or where it has lost a case, only
50% of the disputed amount will have to be paid, while the amount will rise to 62.5% in
search cases, but penalty and interest will be waived.
• In case the amount of penalty, interest or fee is the matter of dispute, then only 12.5% of that
amount will have to be paid till March 31.
• Post this date, 55% of the full disputed tax amount, and 12.5% more in case of search cases,
will be paid.
Background
• The ‘Vivad se Vishwas’ Scheme was announced during the Union Budget, 2020, to provide for
dispute resolution in respect of pending income tax litigation.
• After this , Direct Tax Vivad se Vishwas Bill, 2020 was introduced in the Lok Sabha on 5th of
February, 2020 and was passed on 4th of March, 2020.
• The objective of Vivad se Vishwas is to:

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1. reduce pending income tax litigation
2. generate timely revenue for the Government
3. benefit taxpayers by providing them peace of mind, certainty and savings on account of time
and resources.
3.15 SC allows cryptocurrency trading, quashes RBI ban

[Recent development in financial sector]
• The Supreme Court has recently lifted the ban imposed by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) on
virtual currency trading, including cryptocurrencies.
• The three-judge bench headed by Justice Rohinton Nariman quashed the order passed by RBI
in its April 2018 circular imposing the ban on financial service providers.
• The members of the Supreme Court Bench were Justices S. Ravindra Bhat and V.
Ramasubramanian.
Background
• The circular issued by RBI in July 2018 stated that entities regulated by RBI are prohibited from
“providing any service in relation to virtual currencies, including those of transfer or receipt
of money in accounts relating to the purchase or sale of virtual currencies".
• The Centre is yet to implement a regulation or put in place a monitoring mechanism on virtual
currencies.
• In July 2019, an inter-ministerial panel was set up by the government on virtual currencies.
• It had proposed banning of private cryptocurrencies, barring any digital currency issued by the
government by enacting a law and imposing fines and penalties, including jail-term, for trading
in cryptocurrency.
What is a crypo-currency?
• A cryptocurrency is a digital asset designed to work as a medium of exchange that uses strong
cryptography to secure financial transactions, control the creation of additional units, and
verify the transfer of assets.
• The major cryptocurrencies include Bitcoin, Ethereum and Ripple.
3.16 226th Meeting of Central Board of Trustees takes place

• 226th Meeting of the Central Board of Trustees (CBT), EPF has recently taken place.
The following key decisions were taken by Central Board, EPF:
1. The Central Board recommended crediting of 8.5% annual rate of interest on the EPF
accumulations in the EPF members’ accounts for the year 2019-20.
2. The Central Board ratified and appreciated restoration of normal pension after 15 years from
the date of commutation.
• This has benefitted about 6.3 Lakh pensioners who had opted for commutation under the
erstwhile Para 12-A of EPS, 1995 on or before 25.09.2008.
3. The Central Board also appreciated that EPFO has entered into an Agreement with State Bank
of India after successfully negotiating waiver of various service charges - it resulted in saving
of around Rs. 15 crores annually to EPFO.
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4. The Central Board accorded approval to the proposal for empanelment of Jammu and
Kashmir Bank as one of the collecting banks to collect EPF dues in Jammu and Kashmir.
5. The Board recommended to extend the provision of minimum assurance benefit of Rs. 2.5/3
Lakh, payable to family members of deceased employee who dies while in service.
• Earlier, the benefit of minimum assurance of Rs. 2.5 Lakh and maximum assurance amount of
Rs.6 Lakh was not payable where the member worked in more than one establishment during
a continuous period of 12 months preceding the month of death.
• Now Board has approved to extend these benefits even if a member had worked in multiple
establishments.
6. The Board approved the amendment in Para 28(4) of EDLI Scheme 1976 to delegate the power
to Additional Central Provident Fund Commissioners so as to grant online exemption. This will
benefit lakhs of employees of more than 25,000 establishments.
Note: EPFO lowers interest rate on deposits to 8.5 pc for 2019-20

• Employees' Provident Fund Organization, (EPFO) has lowered the interest rate on provident
fund deposits to 8.5 per cent for the current financial year.
• Earlier it was 8.65 percent.
3.17 RBI imposes moratorium on Yes Bank; caps withdrawals at ₹50,000

[Banking Sector in India]
• The Reserve Bank of India has imposed a moratorium on Yes Bank and has also capped
withdrawals at ₹50,000 per account till further orders.
• The board of Yes Bank has also been superseded with immediate effect.
• The RBI has also assured the depositors of the bank that their interest will be fully protected.
However, the depositors will be allowed to withdraw more than ₹50,000 under the following
conditions:
• In connection with the medical treatment of the depositor or any person actually dependent
on him.
• Towards the cost of higher education of the depositor or any person actually dependent on
him for education in India or outside India.
• To pay obligatory expenses in connection with marriage or other ceremonies of the depositor
or his children or of any other person actually dependent upon him.
• In connection with any other unavoidable emergency.
Background of the crisis of Yes Bank

• It went on a loaning spree with advances rising by 334% between Financial Year 2014 and
2019.
• Many borrowers started defaulting the bank’s gross non-performing asset percentage, that is
the percentage of loans overdue for more than 90 days.
• While bad loans piled up, the bank did not make enough provisions in its profits. Its provisions
were the lowest among comparable banks

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• Customers withdrew large amounts, resulting in the credit-deposit ratio crossing 100% in
2018-19. That is, it lent more than it received.
3.18 SEBI launches mobile app for investors to lodge grievances

• SEBI has launched a mobile application for convenience of investors to lodge grievances in SEBI
Complaints Redress System (SCORES).
• The app, 'Sebi SCORES', is available on both iOS and Android platforms.
• According to SEBI norms, entities against whom complaints are lodged need to file an action
taken report with the regulator within 30 days of receipt of complaint.
About SCORES
• SCORES is a platform for investors to lodge online complaints with SEBI against listed
companies, registered intermediaries and market infrastructure institutions.
• This platform was launched in June 2011 and SEBI has received about 40,000 complaints every
year on an average.
3.19 SEBI proposes new mechanism to make e-voting convenient for shareholders
• SEBI has proposed two mechanisms to make the e-voting process more secure, convenient
and simple for shareholders.
• After consultation with the depositories and ESPs, SEBI has suggested a mechanism wherein
demat account holders may access e-voting portals of multiple ESPs through web-based
services provided by depository participants or depositories.
• This has been done to enable e-voting through a single login credential.
What is the current scenario?
• At present, multiple players provide e-voting facility to listed entities in the country and
shareholders require to register and maintain multiple user IDs and passwords with them.
Suggestion by SEBI
• SEBI has suggested direct registration with depositories wherein, after the initial one-time
registration, shareholders would be able to access the e-voting facilities through mobile or
e-mail-based OTP verification.
• Shareholders would be able to access the e-voting links of ESPs without further authentication
by ESPs for participating in the e-voting process.
• Alternatively, demat account holders will have the option of accessing various ESP portals
directly from their demat accounts, through the facility provided by the depository.
• The depositories may authenticate the investors through mobile or e-mail based OTP
verification for allowing such access.
3.20 RBI to extend ₹10,000 crore under special liquidity facility

[RBI Functions]

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• The Reserve Bank of India has decided to extend a loan of ₹10,000 crore immediately under
the special liquidity facility to Yes Bank against government securities
• The 90-day loan will be offered at the current Bank Rate of 5.4% plus 3% to meet the
immediate liquidity needs of the bank.
• Under the special liquidity facility, RBI gives loan against eligible securities to financial
institutions under emergency.
• RBI has recently announced its move to supersede the board of Yes Bank and has also
announced a draft reconstruction scheme for the private sector lenders.
• Under the scheme, State bank of India will invest up to 49% stake in the bank’s expanded
capital.
• This would make Yes Bank one of the subsidiaries of State Bank of India.
3.21 Govt approves 72 amendments to Companies Act to decriminalise offences: FM

[RBI Functions]
• Recently , Government has approved 72 changes to the Companies Act 2013 .
• As many as 23 offences would be recategorized out of 66 compoundable offences under the
Act.
• Finance Minister has announced that government would remove provisions of imprisonment
in various sections and also reduce penalties in case of various compoundable offences.
• Companies having CSR obligation of less than Rs 50 lakh would not have to constitute a CSR
committee.
Background
• In November 2019, a government-appointed high level panel proposed decriminalising more
than half of the existing compoundable offences under the companies law as well as lower
monetary penalties for violations by startups.
• Generally, compoundable offences are those which can be settled by paying certain amount
of money.
• These measures were suggested as the efforts to further improve the ease of doing business
in the country.
3.22 India's market cap-to-GDP now below long-term average of 76%: Report
[Recent Development in financial sector]
• Motilal Oswal Financial Services has recently released a report.
• The Report has stated that India’s market cap-to-GDP is now at 70 per cent, based on FY20
GDP estimates, and below its long-term average of 76 per cent.
• Market cap to GDP is the ratio used to determine how over, or under-valued a market is.
More about the finding of the Report
• This ratio of 70 percent is the lowest in the last four years.
• The ratio was the highest, at 95 per cent, in FY10.
• Valuations of Indian equities are now below their long-period averages.
• The Nifty’s price-to-book ratio is at 2.5 times, below its historical average of 2.6 times.

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• However, India’s valuation continues to be at a premium to emerging market (EM) peers.
3.23 Defaults by NBFCs on secured debentures prompt SEBI to introduce reforms

[Primary and Secondary Markets]
• In a new consultation paper, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has proposed a
detailed review of the regulatory framework for Corporate Bonds and Debenture Trustees
(DTs).
• As per the consultation paper, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) will now be required
to create an identified charge on the assets, as the pari-passu floating charge in case of recent
defaults of NBFCs in secured loans has created confusion as to whether the debentures are
really secured.
• SEBI has also proposed a transition time of 3-5 years, keeping in mind that the existing charge
created over the entire balance sheet would continue till the maturity of already issued
debentures, which is mostly between 3-5 years.
• It has also proposed the creation of a recovery fund by the issuer at the time of issuance of
security - this is aimed at mitigating the problem of delay in receipt of funds to the debenture
trustees and ensure an accelerated enforcement of security.
Relevance of this move
• According to SEBI, creation of an identified charge by NBFCs will enable liquidation of asset
and return of debt quickly to the investors in the event of any default.
• Market experts also feel that the creation of an identified charge on the balance sheet will not
cause any problem to the existing investors as the issuers would ensure that their asset cover
is more than 100 per cent.
3.24 SEBI allows non-bank custodians to manage gold, related instruments

• SEBI has revised mutual fund regulations to permit non-bank SEBI-registered custodians to
manage gold or gold-related instruments.
• For this, SEBI has amended Securities and Exchange Board of India (Mutual Funds) Regulations,
1996.
New Regulations by SEBI

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• According to new regulations by SEBI ,in case of a gold exchange-traded fund scheme, the
assets of the scheme being gold or gold related instruments may be kept in the custody of a
custodian registered with the board.
• After the revision of norms, non-banking custodians as well as banking custodians can
manage gold ETFs and other gold-related products.
• Additionally, SEBI has also allowed sponsors or asset management companies (AMC) to invest
in close-ended mutual fund schemes.
• The sponsor or asset management company has to invest either at least one per cent of the
amount which would be raised in the new fund offer or Rs 50 lakh, whichever is less
"provided that the investment by the sponsor or asset management company shall be made
in such option of the scheme, as may be specified by the board”.
• Presently, the investment by the sponsor or AMC is mandatory in all schemes, except closed-
ended schemes.
Background
• Currently, only the banks that are registered as custodians with Securities and Exchange Board
of India are permitted to manage gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) and other gold-related
products.
• The move is aimed at reducing concentration of custodial services for gold or related
instruments.
3.25 Canara Bank issues Basel III-compliant Tier II Bonds

• Canara Bank has issued and allotted Basel III-compliant Tier II Bonds amounting to ₹3,000
crore.
• According to the reports, some 30,000 (7.18%) unsecured rated listed subordinated non-
convertible fully paid up taxable redeemable Basel III Compliant Tier II Bonds were given to
20 allottees on March 11, 2020.
3.26 Debt Quality Index declines again in February, says CARE Ratings
[Recent Developments in Financial Sectors]
• Debt Quality Index (CDQI) has been recently released by CARE Ratings.
• This Index denotes whether the quality of debt is improving or declining on a scale of 100
with the base year of 2012.
• Intuitively, an upward movement indicates improvement in quality of debt benchmarked
against the base year.
• In the month of February 2020, it has declined marginally by 0.13 points to 87.89.
• After small rise in April 2019, the Debt Quality Index has been declining for eight consecutive
months indicating a moderation in the credit quality of rated entities.
• Thereafter, it declined by 0.54 points in September 2019 triggered by further downgrades in
the NBFC and HFC segment due to the continuing liquidity stress in the segments.
3.27 Parliament passes Insolvency & Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill 2020
[Recent Developments in Financial Sectors]

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• Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill 2020 has been passed by the Parliament.
• This Bill replaces an ordinance.
• The Bill seeks to remove bottlenecks and streamline the corporate insolvency resolution
process.
• It aims to provide protection to new owners of a loan defaulter company against prosecution
for misdeeds of previous owners.
• The latest changes pertain to various sections of the IBC as well as introduction of a new
section.
• These amendments will help ring-fence successful bidders of insolvent companies from risk
of criminal proceedings for offences committed by previous promoters.
3.28 RBI to infuse ₹4.05 lakh crore rupee liquidity

[RBI Functions]
• Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to provide rupee liquidity for seven days
aggregating ₹25,000 crore to the financial system.
• This is in addition to the already announced provision of 14-day rupee liquidity
aggregating ₹3.80 lakh crore.
• This has been done to counterbalance possible domestic liquidity effects of the $2 billion sell-
buy swap operation – conducted by RBI in the month of March 2020.
• It will persist with long-term repo operations (LTROs) to infuse long-term rupee liquidity
amounting to ₹ 1 lakh crore.
More about liquidity infusion
• The rupee liquidity infusion will be via variable rate 'reverse' repo auctions.
• RBI will also undertake 6-month US Dollar sell/buy swaps to provide liquidity to the foreign
exchange market.
• Under sell/buy swap - a bank will buy US Dollars from the Reserve Bank and simultaneously
agree to sell the same amount of US Dollars at the end of the swap period, will be conducted
through the auction route in multiple tranches.
3.29 Bandhan Bank to replace Yes Bank in Nifty50 index from March 27
• “Yes Bank” is going to be replaced in the Nifty banking index – “Nifty50” by Bandhan
Bank from March 27th, 2020.
• Nifty Banking Index is a subsidiary of National Stock Exchange.
• The replacement has been done on account of non-availability of future and options
contracts in Yes Bank shares.
• The Bank would be dropped from futures and options segment from May 29th 2020.
• Apart from the banking index, changes have also been made in several indices, including Nifty
Alpha 50, Nifty High Beta 50, Nifty 500, Nifty Small-cap 250 and Nifty Midsmallcap 400.
3.30 Ind-AS: RBI frames regulatory guidance for NBFCs and ARCs
[RBI Functions]

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• The Reserve Bank of India has framed regulatory guidance for Indian Accounting Standards
(Ind AS)-implementing non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) and Asset Reconstruction
Companies (ARCs).
New guidelines:
• NBFCs/ARCs shall also maintain the asset classification and compute provisions as per extant
prudential norms on Income Recognition, Asset Classification and Provisioning (IRACP)
including borrower/beneficiary wise classification, provisioning for standard as well as
restructured assets and NPA ageing.
• NBFCs/ARCs have been advised to educate their customers on the need to make payments
in a timely manner.
• NBFCs/ARCs shall frame their policy for sales out of amortised cost business model portfolios
and disclose the same in their notes to financial statements.
• According to the guidelines, RBI expects the board of directors to approve sound
methodologies for computation of expected credit losses (ECL) that address policies,
procedures and controls for assessing and measuring credit risk on all lending exposures,
commensurate with the size, complexity and risk profile specific to the NBFC/ARC.
• The audit committee of the board (ACB) has been advised to approve the classification of
accounts that are due beyond 90 days but not treated as impaired, with the rationale for the
same clearly documented.
These guidelines will help in the:
1. better preparation of the financial statements of NBFCs and ARCs from FY20 onwards.
2. to promote high quality and consistent implementation.
3. to facilitate comparison and better supervision.
• According to RBI, these guidelines focus on the need to ensure consistency in the application
of the accounting standards in specific areas, including asset classification and provisioning,
and provide clarifications on regulatory capital in the light of Ind AS implementation.
Background
• Ind AS 109 does not explicitly define default, but requires entities to define default in a
manner consistent with that used for internal credit risk management.
• RBI has recommended that the definition of default adopted for accounting purposes should
be guided by the definition used for regulatory purposes.
3.31 RBI cuts UCB exposure limits to group of connected borrowers; give one more year to meet
enhanced PSL norms
[RBI Functions]
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has cut the prudential exposure limits for urban co-operative
banks (UCBs) to a group of connected borrowers.
• RBI has given these banks one more year to meet the enhanced priority sector lending (PSL)
norms.
• The RBI has announced that prudential exposure limits for UCBs to a group of connected
borrowers/parties will be 25 per cent (40 per cent), respectively, of their tier-I capital.

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• The prudential exposure limits for single borrower/party have been retained at 15 per cent
of UCBs tier-I capital.
More About the Circular
• The revised exposure limits will apply to all types of fresh exposures taken by UCBs.
• RBI has also said that UCBs have to bring down their existing exposures which are more than
the revised limits to within the aforesaid revised limits by March 31, 2023.
• UCBs shall have at least 50 per cent of their aggregate loans and advances comprising loans of
not more than ₹25 lakh or 0.2 per cent of their Tier I capital, whichever is higher, subject to a
maximum of Rs.1 crore, per borrower/party.
Background
• The December 2019 draft circular by RBI on “Limits on Exposure to Single and Group
Borrowers/Parties and Large Exposures and Revision in Priority Sector Lending Targets for
UCBs” had proposed the exposure limit at 10 per cent.
Revised PSL Targets for UCBs
• UCBs have been given time up to March 31st, 2024 to reach the PSL target of 75 per cent of
loans against March 31, 2023 proposed in the draft circular.
• UCBs are required to reach this PSL target in four phases:
✓ 45 per cent of loans by March-end 2021
• Currently, the overall PSL target for UCBs is at 40 per cent of loans.
3.32 NCLAT to have a bench at Chennai, notification issued

[Recent Development in Financial Sector]
• The government has notified the constitution of the National Company Law Appellate Tribunal
Bench at Chennai Bench.
• It will come into effect from March 18, 2020.
• It is being constituted to handle matters arising from Southern states – it would hear the
appeals against the orders of the benches of the National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT)
having jurisdiction of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana,
Lakshadweep and Puducherry.
Background
• The Bench of the NCLAT at New Delhi, will now be known as the Principal Bench of the NCLAT
and will continue to hear appeals other than those in the jurisdiction of Chennai Bench of
the NCLAT.
• The NCLAT was constituted under Section 410 of the Companies Act, 2013 for hearing appeals
against the orders of National Company Law Tribunal(s) (NCLT), with effect from June 1,
2016.
• It is also appellate tribunal for hearing appeals against the orders passed by NCLT under the
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code.

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3.33 Fake Currency
[Recent Development in Financial Sector]
• Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, Minister of State for Finance & Corporate Affairs has recently stated
in parliament about Fake Currency notes.
• As per data of National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB), there has been a declining trend in
Fake Indian Currency Notes (FICN) – that have been seized during the years 2017, 2018 and
2019.
• Giving more details, Shri Thakur stated that the Government of India has taken various
measures to check the smuggling and circulation of FICN in the country, which inter alia,
include:
• Ministry of Home Affairs has formed FICN Coordination Group (FCORD) to share
intelligence/information among the security agencies of the state/centre to counter the
problem of circulation of fake currency cases.
Steps taken to tackle Fake Currency notes
• A Terror Funding and Fake Currency Cell (TFFC) has been constituted in NIA to investigate
terror funding and fake currency cases.
• A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been signed between India and Bangladesh to
prevent and counter smuggling and circulation of fake currency notes.
• Security at the international borders has been strengthened by using new surveillance
technology, deploying additional manpower for round the clock surveillance, establishing
observations posts along the international border, erection of border fencing and intensive
patrolling.
3.34 Bank Mergers

[Banking sector in India]
• The objective of amalgamation of the banks is to facilitate consolidation among Public Sector
Banks (PSBs) to create strong and competitive banks, capable of achieving economies of scale
and realization of synergy benefits with wider product and service offering for customers.
• The amalgamation of Vijaya Bank and Dena Bank into Bank of Baroda (BoB) was effected on
1.4.2019.
Changes after amalgamation
• As per the input received from BoB, the total number of branches of the amalgamating banks
i.e. Dena Bank (eDB) and Vijaya Bank (eVB) - was 9,447 which increased to 9,481 branches as
part of the amalgamated entity.
• The rural branches too increased from 2,930 to 2,934 during this period.
• Priority sector lending has increased by Rs. 4,253 crore to Rs. 2,23,128 crore, as on
31.12.2019, the cumulative balance of Kisan Credit Cards has increased by Rs 1,796 crore to
Rs 38,325 crore, agriculture loan disbursements have increased by Rs. 46,690 crore and access
to credit through overdraft amount advanced to the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
accounts has increased by Rs 11.38 crores.
3.35 SEBI revises Manager Eligibility norms for InvITs

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• SEBI has recently revised its investment manager eligibility norms for Infrastructure
Investment Trusts (InvITs).
Investment Manager Eligibility Norms
• According to new rules, Investment manager needs to have an experience of at least five
years in fund management or advisory services or development in the infrastructure sector.
• SEBI has allowed a combined relevant experience of at least 30 years of directors, partners
and employees of the investment manager, even if it is a newly created entity.
• For computing the combined experience, only the experience of the
directors/partners/employees with more than 5 years of experience in fund management or
advisory services or development in the infrastructure sector shall be considered.
Background
• Currently, InvIT regulations require the investment manager to have at least 5 years of
experience in fund management or advisory services or development in the infrastructure
sector.
• Besides, the investment manager needs to have at least two employees, each with five years
of experience in the infrastructure sector.
• The regulations were amended after the regulator in its board meeting on February 17 decided
to amend its investment manager eligibility norms for InvITs and permit fast-track issuance of
units to existing investors in REITs and InvITs.
• The changes in the eligibility norms will help a mega offering worth an estimated Rs 20,000
crore by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), which is in the process of setting
up an InvIT to monetise its completed public-funded national highway.
3.36 Fast-track rights issue: SEBI comes out with guidelines for REITs, InvITs
• In its recent circular, SEBI has permitted fast-track rights issue by REITs and InvITs without
filing draft offer document with the regulator.
• For this, it has amended Securities and Exchange Board of India Infrastructure Investment
Trusts) Regulations, 2014 and Securities and Exchange Board of India (Real Estate Investment
Trusts) Regulations, 2014.
Circular by SEBI
• SEBI has stated that REIT and InvIT will not be required to file draft offer document with the
regulator in case of a fast-track rights issue, but this would be subject to the fulfilment of the
conditions as specified by the Board from time to time.
• Now listed REITs and InvITs desirous of issuing units under fast-track rights issue will have to
comply with certain guidelines.
• The units of these instruments should be listed on any stock exchange for a period of at least
three years immediately preceding the record date and all the units of the InvIT and REIT are
held in demat form on the record date.
• The average market capitalisation of public unit holding of InvIT and REIT each should be at
least Rs 250 crore.

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• These investment instruments need to redress at least 95 per cent of the complaints received
from the investors till the end of the quarter immediately preceding the month of the record
date.
• SEBI has said that there should not be any regulatory action imposed on the InvIT and REIT in
the three years preceding the year in which rights issue has been proposed. The imposition
of monetary fines by stock exchanges on the InvIT will not be a ground for ineligibility for
undertaking issuances under this clause.
• Further, there should not be any show-cause notices issued or prosecution proceedings
initiated or pending against these instruments or their promoters or directors; they also should
not have settled any alleged violation under the settlement mechanism; and units of InvIT and
REIT should not be suspended from trading as a disciplinary measure during last three years
immediately preceding the record date.
• The sponsor(s) shall mandatorily subscribe to their rights entitlement and shall not renounce
their rights, except for the purpose of complying with minimum public shareholding norms
prescribed under the InvIT/REIT Regulations.
Preferential issue and institutional placement of units
• With regard to preferential issue and institutional placement of units by listed InvITs and REITs,
SEBI has stated that units allotted to sponsor and its associate will be locked-in for three years
from the date of trading approval granted for the units.
• This is provided that not more than 25 per cent of the total unit capital of the InvIT and REIT
will be locked-in for three years and units allotted in excess of 25 per cent need to be locked
in for one year.
• The lead merchant banker will have to ensure that the information contained in the draft
document and the particulars as per audited financial statements are not more than six
months old from the issue opening date.
Background
• This comes after the regulator earlier this month allowed fast-track rights issue by (REITs) and
infrastructure investment trusts (InvITs) without filing draft offer document with Sebi.
3.37 Survey finds 82% women prefer stocks, mutual funds for investments
• A survey conducted by investment platform Groww has been recently released.
• The survey has showed that 43 per cent women chose traditional avenues such as fixed
deposit and public provident fund to park their money.
Findings of the Survey
• In this survey, 26,000 women participated.
• It has showed that as many as 82 per cent women are preferring stocks and mutual funds to
meet their investment goals.
• It has noted that 64 per cent women are financially confident and take investment decisions
on their own.
• Tenure of Investment - 59 per cent women save for the long term, out of this 50 per cent
women opt for an investment time horizon greater than 10 years.

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• Choice of Investment - Gold has remained the top investment choice with 25 per cent women
investing in it, 13 per cent chose real estate and 9 per cent women chose to invest in pension
scheme.
• Goal of investment - 41 per cent respondents cited retirement as their primary goal, followed
by investment for higher education and marriage of their children.
• As many as 80 per cent women said higher returns encouraged them to invest.
• For 40 per cent women, ease of investing and for 26 per cent women liquidity play a major
role in making investment decisions.
3.38 Lok Sabha passes Appropriation Bill

[Union Budget]
• The Lok Sabha has passed the Appropriation Bill 2020-21.
• The Bill authorising the government to draw over ₹110-lakh crore from the Consolidated
Fund of India for its working as well as implementation of its programmes and schemes.
• This completes two-thirds of the exercise for approval of the Budget for 2020-21.
• The passed bill envisages the spending of ₹110.4-lakh crore during the financial year 2020-
21.
• The Bill has been passed after applying ‘guillotine’ on demands of grants for various
ministries.
What is Appropriation Bill?
• Appropriation Bill gives power to the government to withdraw funds from the Consolidated
Fund of India for meeting the expenditure during the financial year.
• It is intended to give authority to the government to withdraw the voted amount from the
Consolidated Fund.
• The government introduces the Appropriation Bill in the Lok Sabha after the discussions on
Budget proposals and the Voting on Demand for Grants.
3.39 SEBI revokes market ban on individual in Ricoh India case

• In its recent order, SEBI has revoked the market ban imposed on an individual in the Ricoh
India matter.
• The restrictions on Bibek Chowdhury have been revoked after a forensic audit report did not
find any involvement of Chowdhury in the fraud.
Background
• As per a SEBI order, dated August 16, 2018, Bibek Chowdhury was restrained from accessing
the securities market or buying, selling or otherwise dealing in the securities market in any
manner whatsoever, either directly or indirectly, till further order.
• Chowdhury was with Operations Audit Group (Internal Audit) Head for FY 2015-16 at the time
of alleged violations at Ricoh India.
• In the Ricoh India matter, Pipara & Co had submitted the Forensic Audit Report (FAR) in
October 25, 2019.

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3.40 SEBI proposes one commodity, one exchange model to make India price-setter
• Securities and Exchange Board of India [SEBI] has recently proposed, ‘one commodity, one
exchange’ plan so as to deepen and grow commodity markets in India with an intention to
make India a price-setter than a price-taker.
• This plan by SEBI has been proposed even though currently multiple exchanges are allowed
to launch contract on the same commodity to create competition and give choice to
investors.
Proposal by SEBI
• SEBI’s reason for moving to a new proposal is that under the existing system, exchanges' focus
shifts to meeting competition rather than developing market in their own commodities and
liquidity gets fragments in more than one exchanges.
• SEBI wants a model in India where exchanges will have to select a commodity in which only
that exchange can deal and they have to develop market for that commodity in 3-5 years
after which other exchanges may be allowed to enter.
• It has also proposed that going forward, each exchange can select 2-3 goods from the notified
list of 91 commodities on which no derivative products have been launched by any exchange.
• It has offered exchanges which select such commodity or get some commodity included in the
notified list can offer liquidity enhancement benefits.
Background
Major Players in various sectors in India -
• Multi Commodity Exchange (MCX) - metals, precious metals and energy contracts
• National Commodity and Derivatives Exchange (NCDEX) - agriculture segment
• Indian Commodity Exchange (ICEX) - diamonds, paddy and steel
• According to SEBI, Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) and National Stock Exchange (NSE) are not
able to grow, and if exchanges focus on a one or two commodities then they can grow
meaningfully.
3.41 RBI to infuse ₹10,000 crore via OMO

[RBI Functions]
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to infuse ₹10,000 crore liquidity in the banking
system by buying government securities through open market operations (OMO).
• RBI will conduct open market operations on March 20, 2020 to purchase ₹10,000 crore of
government securities through a multi-security auction using the multiple price method.
Background
• RBI has announced that with the heightened volatility in the financial markets due to the
spread of the COVID-19, “It is important to ensure that all market segments remain liquid and
stable, and function normally”
What is OMO?
• Open market operations is the sale and purchase of government securities and treasury bills
by RBI or the central bank of the country.
• The objective of OMO is to regulate the money supply in the economy.

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• When the RBI wants to increase the money supply in the economy, it purchases the
government securities from the market and it sells government securities to suck
out liquidity from the system.
• RBI carries out the OMO through commercial banks and does not directly deal with the public.
• OMO is one of the tools that RBI uses to smoothen the liquidity conditions through the year
and minimise its impact on the interest rate and inflation rate levels.
3.42 Finance Commission constitutes Committee to Review Fiscal Consolidation Roadmap of the
General Government
[Finance Commission]
• The Chairman of Fifteenth Finance Commission has constituted a Committee to review
the fiscal consolidation roadmap of the general government.
Terms of Reference of the Committee are –
1. The Committee shall make recommendations on the definition of deficit and debt for the
Central government, overall states, the General Government and public sector enterprises
by considering all explicit and measurable liabilities of the sovereign and by bringing in
consistency between the definition of debt (stock) and deficit (flow).
2. The Committee shall also lay down the principles for arriving at the debt of the general
government debt and consolidated public sector with appropriate netting to avoid double-
counting.
3. The Committee shall define contingent liabilities, provide quantifiable measures of such
liabilities, wherever possible, and specify conditions under which “contingent” liabilities
become “explicit” liabilities of the public sector.
4. Committee shall review the current status of deficit and debt at different levels.
5. Committee shall recommend a debt and fiscal consolidation roadmap for FY21-FY25 for the
Central Government, overall States and General Government and attempt building up
scenarios for public sector enterprises.
Members of the Committee
• The Committee will be chaired by Chairman Sh. N. K. Singh.
The other Members of the Committee will be:
• Shri A. N. Jha and Dr. Anoop Singh, Members of 15th Finance Commission.
• one representative each from the Office of the Comptroller and Auditor General of India and
the Controller General of Accounts.
• Joint Secretary (Budget) of the Department of Economic Affairs in the Ministry of Finance.
• Two outside experts, namely, Dr. Sajjid Z Chinoy & Dr. Prachi Mishra.
• Committee will include as Members the representatives from State Governments Shri. S.
Krishnan, Additional Chief Secretary, Government of Tamil Nadu and Sh. Anirudh Tiwari,
Principal Secretary, Government of Punjab.
3.43 Public Debt Management Quarterly Report — October to December 2019

[Monetary Policy]
• Public Debt Management Cell (PDMC) has been bringing out a quarterly report on debt
management on a regular basis.
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• PDMC operates under Budget Division, Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry of Finance
Current report - quarter October - December 2019 (Q3 FY20)
• During Q3 of FY20, Central Government issued dated securities aggregating to ₹1,92,000crore
as against ₹1,27,000 crore in Q3 of FY19.
• The weighted average maturity (WAM) of new issuances stood at 16.07 years in Q3 of FY20
(15.89 years in Q2 of FY20).
• The weighted average yield (WAY) of primary issuances of dated securities for the same
quarter was lower at 6.86 per cent compared to 6.93 per cent in Q2 of FY20.
• During October-December 2019, the Central Government raised ₹50,000 crore through the
issuance of Cash Management Bills.
• The net average liquidity absorption by RBI under Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF)
including MSF was ₹2,32,263.39crore during the quarter.
• The total liabilities (including liabilities under the ‘Public Account’) of the Government,
increased to ₹93,89,267crore at end-December 2019 from ₹91,01,484crore at end-
September 2019.
• Public debt accounted for 90.4 per cent of total outstanding liabilities at end-December 2019.
Nearly 31.7 per cent of the outstanding dated securities had a residual maturity of less than 5
years.
• The holding pattern indicates a share of 39.1 per cent for commercial banks and 24.9 per cent
for insurance companies at end-December 2019.
3.44 SEBI grants temporary relaxation from disclosure norms

• Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) has granted temporary relaxation to companies
from certain disclosure requirements on account of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
• As per the release, companies have been given a one-month relaxation for filing quarterly
corporate governance report.
• Further, a relaxation of one month to 45 days has been given for filing quarterly and annual
financial results.
About the Relaxation
• Companies would get relaxation ranging from three weeks to 45 days for certain disclosure
obligations like filing quarterly and annual results, corporate governance reports and
shareholding patterns among other things.
3.45 DPIIT notifies decision to permit NRIs to own up to 100% stake in Air India
[Disinvestment]
• The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) has notified a decision
of the union cabinet to allow non-resident Indians (NRIs) to control up to 100% stake in
disinvestment-bound Air India.
• The FDI policy earlier permitted NRIs to take only 49% stake in the airline.
Notification by DPIIT
• According to the release, Foreign investments in Air India including that of foreign airlines
shall not exceed 49 per cent either directly or indirectly except in case of those NRIs, who
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are Indian Nationals, where foreign investment is permitted up to 100 per cent under
automatic route.
• The notification has also stated that the condition that substantial ownership and effective
control (SOEC) of Air India shall continue to be vested in Indian nationals.
• Under the SOEC framework, a carrier that flies overseas from a particular country should be
substantially owned by that country’s government or its nationals.
• Note – SOEC Framework is followed in the airline industry globally.
3.46 SEBI steps in to tackle volatility

• As volatility continues to rise in the stock market, The Securities and Exchange Board of India
has raised the margins in the cash segment, while on the other hand it has tightened the norms
for position limits in derivatives.
• The aim of it is to ensure effective risk management and market integrity.
New Norms by SEBI
• The marketwide position limit in certain stocks in derivatives has been revised to 50% and
the penalty on an entity found to exceed permissible limits has been enhanced to 10 times
of the current minimum and five times of the maximum penalty structure.
• Further, for stocks with a price band of 20% and witnessing an intra-day (high-low) price
movement of more than 10% for three or more days in the last one month, the minimum
margin rate would be increased to 40% in a phased manner.
• According to the new norms, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) and mutual funds among
others will be allowed to take short positions in index derivatives only to the extent of the
notional value of their holding in the underlying stocks.
3.47 RBI chalks out contingency plan for smooth functioning of services
[RBI Functions]
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has put in place a contingency plan to ensure that key
information technology (IT) services for the delivery of digital banking, treasury services and
cheque clearance are not disrupted by the coronavirus outbreak.
• In line with these, the Indian Banks’ Association has prepared a three-pronged strategy to
ensure critical banking functions area not disrupted.
• It has told banks that all critical functions like centralized loan processing, back office data
collection and treasury should not work in the same location and instead be segregated at
different locations.
• For the first time, RBI has shared its Business Continuity Plan (BCP).
What is BCP?
• It is an integral risk mitigation measure for critical operations such as ensuring zero
disruptions in the national payments systems.
• It includes measures to prepare for anticipated disruptions, ensure smooth flow of operations
and staffing, identify key resources, and form crisis management groups, while keeping all staff
insulated from exposure to the virus.

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• Under the plan, RBI has created a team of 37 officials comprising key personnel from important
functions like debt management, reserve management, monetary operations, and 113 officials
from service providers.
• RBI has moved this team to a hotel near the primary data centre (DC).
3.48 RBI extends priority sector classification for bank loans to NBFCs to FY21
[RBI Functions]
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to extend priority sector classification for bank
loans to non-banking finance companies (NBFCs) for on-lending for FY 2020-21.
• As per the August 2019 circular, bank credit to registered NBFCs (other than microfinance
institutions) for on-lending was eligible for classification as priority sector up to March 31,
2020.
Circular by RBI
• In its latest circular, RBI has also stated that existing loans disbursed under the on-lending
model will continue to be classified under the Priority Sector till the date of
repayment/maturity.
• According to it, Bank credit to registered NBFCs (other than MFIs) and HFCs for on-lending will
be allowed up to an overall limit of 5 per cent of the individual bank’s total priority sector
lending.
Background
• A bank can classify fresh loans sanctioned by NBFCs to the priority sector -agriculture, micro
& small enterprises (MSEs) and housing -out of bank borrowings.
• Bank credit to registered NBFCs (other than MFIs) for on-lending is classified as priority sector
under respective categories subject to conditions:
1. on-lending by NBFCs for the ‘term lending’ component under agriculture is allowed up to ₹10
lakh per borrower
2. on-lending to micro & small enterprises is allowed up to ₹20 lakh per borrower
3. on-lending by housing finance companies (HFCs) for housing is allowed up to ₹20 lakh per
borrower.
3.49 Credit card, debit card payments to be safer online with new RBI rules
[RBI Functions]
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has issued a set of rules for payment aggregators and payment
gateways to make digital payments safer for users.
• The guidelines aim to minimise the risk of digital payment frauds and to keep customers'
financial data safe.
What are PAs and PGs?
• Payment aggregators are entities that facilitate e-commerce sites and merchants to accept
various payment instruments from the customers for completion of their payment obligations.
• PGs are entities that provide technology infrastructure to route and facilitate processing of an
online payment transaction without any involvement in handling of funds.
Guidelines by RBI

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• The central bank issued these rules through a notification, 'Guidelines on regulation of
payment aggregators and payment gateways'.
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has asked all payment aggregators to stop giving the option
of using ATM PIN to users to complete online transactions.
• All the digital payments above Rs 2,000 will have to be mandatorily verified via one-time
password (OTP). However, according to RBI guidelines, verification of payments below Rs
2,000 via OTP is optional.
More about the guidelines
• RBI will now regulate the activities of all payment aggregators.
• As per the guidelines on regulation of PAs and payment gateways (PGs), the existing PAs
should achieve a net-worth of ₹15 crore by March 31, 2021 and a net-worth of ₹25 crore on
or before March 31, 2023.
• New PAs will have a minimum net-worth of ₹15 crore at the time of application for
authorisation and should attain a net-worth of ₹25 crore by the end of third financial year of
grant of authorisation.
• Also, entities having FDI will be guided by the Consolidated Foreign Direct Investment policy
of the government and the relevant foreign exchange management regulations.
• PAs will have to put in place a formal, publicly disclosed customer grievance redressal and
dispute management framework.
• The RBI has also prescribed an indicative baseline technology-related recommendation for
adoption by the PAs and PGs.
3.50 Covid-19: SBI opens emergency credit line for borrowers

• State Bank of India has opened an emergency credit line to meet any liquidity mismatch for
its borrowers.
• This has been decided as businesses are getting affected due to the novel coronavirus
pandemic.
Covid-19 Emergency Credit Line (CECL)
• The additional liquidity facility by SBI is called as Covid-19 Emergency Credit Line (CECL).
• It will provide funds up to ₹200 crore and will be available till June 30, 2020.
• The loan will be offered at an interest rate of 7.25 per cent with a tenure of 12 months.
• According to SBI, this credit line is open for all standard accounts which have not been
classified as Special Mention Accounts (SMA) 1 or 2 as on March 16, 2020.
• Borrowers can maximum avail 10 per cent of the existing fund based working capital limits,
subject to a cap of ₹200 crore.
What is SMA?
• SMA was introduced to identify those accounts that has the potential to become an
NPA/stressed asset.
• SMA-1 accounts are those where the overdue period is between 31 to 60 days while, in SMA -
2 accounts overdue is between 61 to 90 days.

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3.51 ICICI Lombard launches a dedicated insurance cover for coronavirus
[Recent developments in financial sector]
• Private sector non-life insurance company ICICI Lombard has launched a focused insurance
policy for coronavirus (COVID-19).
• This policy will pay the entire sum insured irrespective of hospitalisation expenses.
More about the Policy
• If a policyholder tests positive for COVID-19 at any of the Government-authorised centres, the
company will pay out the entire sum insured, in a lump sum in the event of a first diagnosis of
COVID-19 during the policy period.
• The health cover comes with a premium of ₹149 and provides a sum insured of ₹25,000.
• This is subject to an initial waiting period of 14 days, the company said in a regulatory filing.
• The scope of the cover shall be within the geographical boundaries of India and restricted to
Indian nationals only.
• The policy has been launched in group insurance mode.
3.52 To help small companies, threshold limit for defaults under IBC raised to ₹1 cr
• The Government has raised the threshold that would trigger insolvency proceedings to ₹1
crore from current ₹1 lakh, to help small and medium enterprises.
• To help small companies facing the threat of defaults due to coronavirus-related lockdown
• Finance Ministry has also stated that no additional fees will be charged for late filing during
a moratorium period from April 1 to September 30 in respect of any document, return,
statement etc, required to be filed in the MCA-21 Registry, irrespective of its due date.
Background
• The IBC at present can only be triggered if there is a minimum default of Rs 1 lakh.
• This process can be triggered by way of filing an application before the National Company Law
Tribunal (NCLT).
• The process can be initiated by two classes of creditors, which would include financial creditors
and operational creditors.
3.53 Cabinet approves recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks to improve their Capital to Risk
Weighted Assets Ratio
• The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has given its approval for continuation of the
process of recapitalization of Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) by providing minimum regulatory
capital to RRBs for another year beyond 2019-20.
• This is being provided up to 2020-21, for those RRBs which are unable to maintain minimum
Capital to Risk weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of 9%, as per the regulatory norms prescribed
by the Reserve Bank of India.
• The CCEA has also approved utilization of Rs.670 crore as central government share for the
scheme of Recapitalization of RRBs (i.e. 50% of the total recapitalization support of Rs.1340
crore).

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• This is subject to the condition that the release of Central Government’s share will be
contingent upon the release of the proportionate share by the sponsor banks.
About RRBs
• As per RBI guidelines, the RRBs have to provide 75% of their total credit under PSL (Priority
Sector Lending).
• RRBs primarily cater to the credit and banking requirements of agriculture sector and rural
areas with focus on small and marginal farmers, micro & small enterprises, rural artisans and
weaker sections of the society.
• In addition, RRBs also provide lending to micro/small enterprises and small entrepreneurs in
rural areas.
Background
• A committee was set up under the Chairmanship of Dr. K.C. Chakrabarty, after RBI’s decision
to introduce disclosure norms for Capital to Risk Weighted Assets Ratio (CRAR) of RRBs with
effect from March 2008.
• Based on the Committee’s recommendations, a Scheme for Recapitalization of RRBs was
approved by the Cabinet in 2011 to provide recapitalization support of Rs. 2,200 crore to 40
RRBs with an additional amount of Rs. 700 crore as contingency fund to meet the
requirement of the weak RRBs, particularly in the North Eastern and Eastern Region.
• Therefore, based on the CRAR position of RRBs, as on 31st March of every year, National
Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD) identifies those RRBs, which require
recapitalisation assistance to maintain the mandatory CRAR of 9%.
• Post 2011, the scheme for recapitalization of RRBs was extended upto 2019-20 in a phased
manner with a financial support of Rs. 2,900 crore - with 50% Government of India’s share of
Rs. 1,450 crore.
• Out of Rs. 1,450 crore approved as GoI’s share for recapitalization, an amount of Rs. 1,395.64
crore has been released to RRBs, upto 2019-20 so far.
3.54 PAN-Aadhaar linking can be done at PAN service centres: Income tax department
[Recent developments in Financial sector]
• The Income Tax Department has asked all PAN card holders to link their 10-digit alphanumeric
number with Aadhaar card by June 30th 2020.
• This linking can be done online as well offline through PAN services centres of NSDL and
UTITSL.
Background
• The Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT), had extended the deadline for this task for the eighth
time on December 30 last year.
• Section 139 AA (2) of the Income Tax Act says that every person having PAN as on July 1, 2017,
and is eligible to obtain Aadhaar, must intimate his Aadhaar number to tax authorities.
3.55 Non-life insurers register 14% premium collection growth in Apr-Feb FY20

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• Non-life insurance companies have registered a 14 per cent growth in premium collection for
the April- February period of the current financial year (FY20), over the same period in the
last financial year (FY19).
• For private sector non-life insurers, segments like fire, motor, health have performed better
than other segments.
• The crop insurance segment has seen negative growth for the private insurers as many have
stopped underwriting crop insurance policies.
• The private sector insurers have seen a 17 per cent growth in premium collection, the state-
owned non-life insurers registered a 9 per cent growth in the same period.
• For state-owned insurers, segments like fire, crop, credit, and aviation have seen a double-
digit growth while segments like motor and personal accident have seen degrowth.
3.56 Indian Bank announces special emergency loan schemes to address lockdown
• Indian Bank has recently announced five special emergency loan schemes for customs to
cushion effect of economic slump and lockdown.
• It will be the second bank after State Bank of India (SBI) to come out with such schemes.
1. IND- COVID Emergency Credit Line (IBCECL) will provide additional funding of upto 10 per
cent of the Working Capital Limits (both Fund Based and Non Fund Based limits) with a
maximum limit of Rs 100 crore.
• Large Corporates and Medium Enterprises that are in the Standard Category would be eligible
for this loan.
• The loan tenor will be for 36 months with an initial moratorium of up to 6 months and would
carry fixed interest rate of 1 year MCLR.
2. IND- MSE COVID Emergency Loan— (INDMSE-CEL) will give additional funding of 10 per cent
of FBWClimits with maximum Rs 50 lakh, available for all Micro and Small Enterprises and upto
60 months tenor.
• This is intended to meet the liquidity issues faced by Micro and Small Enterprises during the
challenging time now.
3.57 Paytm Payments Bank to now issue Visa debit cards

• Paytm Payments Bank Ltd (PPBL) has announced that it will start issuing Visa debit cards to
its customers.
• PPBL will issue Visa virtual debit cards to its customers, which will enable them to transact at
all merchants accepting payments through cards.
• For the first time, the bank’s customers will also be able to make international transactions
using their Visa debit cards.
• Soon, the customers will also have an option to request for a physical card. This will enable
customers to make contactless payment through their chip-inserted cards.
Note - PPBL is already the largest issuer of RuPay Debit Cards and has the fastest growing bank
account base.

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3.58 RBI to inject ₹10,000 cr into markets via bonds
[RBI Functions]
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has announced that it will purchase government securities
worth ₹10,000 crore to inject liquidity into the financial markets amid the Covid-19
pandemic.
• Through open market operations, two, three, four and five-year securities would be bought.
• RBI has been taking steps to improve liquidity and monetary transmission in the market.
What is a Government Security (G-Sec)?
• A government security (G-Sec) is a tradeable instrument issued by the central government or
state governments. It acknowledges the government’s debt obligations.
• Such securities are short term , called treasury bills — with original maturities of less than
one year and long term, called government bonds or dated securities — with original
maturity of one year or more.
• In India, the central government issues both: treasury bills and bonds or dated securities,
while state governments issue only bonds or dated securities, which are called the state
development loans.
• Since they are issued by the government, they carry no risk of default, and hence, are called
risk-free gilt-edged instruments.
3.59 ONGC exudes confidence of withstanding current volatility; declares 100% interim dividend
[Alternate sources of Finance]
• Oil and Natural Gas Corp (ONGC) has stated that it has sufficient funds to continue operations
in an era of extreme volatility in oil prices. And has declared 100 per cent interim dividend.
It has declared an interim dividend of ₹5 per equity share of ₹5 each.
• With this, The government will get ₹3,949 crore in dividend and taxes , as it owns 62.78% stake
in ONGC.
Background
• The outbreak of coronavirus which dampened global demand and the failure of talks of OPEC+
to arrive at an agreement on production cut has led to a drastic decline in oil prices.
3.60 RBI offers Rs 11,722 cr to banks through repo auction

[RBI Functions]
• The Reserve Bank of India has offered Rs 11,772 crore to banks through a 12-day variable rate
repo auction.
• In the auction, RBI has received Rs 11,772 crore of bids and allocated the entire amount at a
cut-off rate of 5.16 per cent.
• RBI had advanced this auction from March 30 due to the evolving financial conditions and
taking into account the impact of disruptions caused by COVID-19.
3.61 RBI permits 3-month moratorium on EMI payments on all outstanding loans
[RBI Functions]
• The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) Governor Shaktikanta Das has announced a cut in benchmark
interest rate, Repo Rate by 75 basis points to 4.4 per cent.

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• The RBI has cut Liquidity Adjustment Facility by 90 bps to 4 percent. It also announced that the
Reverse Repo Rate has been reduced by 90 basis points to 4% India has locked down economic
activity.
• This has been done to deal with the hardships caused due to the outbreak of COVID-19.
• RBI has also reduced the Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) of all banks by 100 basis points to 3 per
cent with effect from March 28 for 1 year.
• RBI has provided total liquidity injection of Rs 3.74 lakh crore to the system in current
scenario.
EMI Moratorium
• RBI has announced a three-month moratorium on payments of term loan installments (EMI)
and interest on working capital.
3.62 Government misses disinvestment target for FY20 by Rs14,701 crore

[Disinvestment]
• Government has garnered Rs. 50,299 crore in 2019-20 fiscal year as proceeds from
Disinvestment.
• With this Government has fallen short of the Rs65,000 crore full year target.
• Among major disinvestments in FY20, government garnered Rs26,500 crore through stake
sales using CPSE ETF and another Rs4,369 crore through stake sales in Bharat-22 ETF.
Background
• In Budget for FY21, the government had to scale back its disinvestment target for FY20 to
Rs65,000 crore from Rs1.05 trillion earlier as the privatization of Air India could not be
completed.
• For FY21, government has set an ambitious disinvestment target of Rs2.1 trillion including
Rs90,000 crore from initial public offer in Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India and
government stake sale in IDBI Bank.
3.63 Forex reserves fall by $12 bn, the most since 2008 global financial crisis
[Recent developments in Financial Sector]
• India’s foreign exchange reserves have fallen by USD 11.98 billion to USD 469.909 billion in
the week to March 20.
• This is the result of Reserve Bank of India continuously supplying dollars into the market to
stem fall in the rupee.
• The rupee hit an all-time low of 76.15 against the US dollar on March 23 as foreign investors
continued to withdraw money from domestic equity and debt market amid uncertainties
due to the fast-spreading coronavirus.
• According to the data available, India’s reserve position with the IMF dipped by USD 77
million to USD 3.542 billion.
Background
• The reserves had touched a life-time high of USD 487.23 billion in the week to March 6, after
rising by USD 5.69 billion.

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3.64 To fight Covid-19, SIDBI to provide loans to MSEs manufacturing medical supplies
[Regulators of Financial Institutions]
• Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) has announced that it will provide loans
up to ₹50 lakh to Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs) that are manufacturing medical
supplies for fighting the novel coronavirus (Covid-19).
• The scheme announced will be called as SIDBI Assistance to Facilitate Emergency (SAFE)
response against coronavirus scheme.
About SAFE Scheme
• It will offer loans to MSEs at a fixed interest rate of 5 per cent and with a maximum loan
repayment tenure of five years.
• MSEs engaged in manufacturing of hand sanitizers, masks, gloves, head gear, body suits,
shoe-covers, ventilators, goggles and testing labs are eligible for loans under this scheme.
• The special scheme will help MSEs to acquire equipment, plant and machinery, other assets
including raw materials required for production or delivery of services.
• The loans offered are collateral-free and will be sanctioned within 48 hours of applying and
submission of documents.
• MSEs can apply online for availing loans under the scheme.
3.65 Covid19: IRDAI relaxes re-insurance norms

[Regulators of Financial Institutions]
• Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has relaxed reinsurance
norms for the insurers.
• Now with the new norms, the insurers will have to file their board approved final re-insurance
program for the year 2020-21 by April 30, 2020 along with a synopsis of catastrophe
modelling report.
• This relaxation will only be applicable for the financial year 2020-21.
• Apart from this all other provisions of existing reinsurance regulations.
• This relaxation of norms has been given in view of the national lockdown due to coronavirus
and other related concerns.
3.66 Ministry of Corporate Affairs introduces the “Companies Fresh Start Scheme, 2020” and
revised the “LLP Settlement Scheme, 2020”
• Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) has introduced the “Companies Fresh Start Scheme,
2020” and revised the “LLP Settlement Scheme, 2020”.
• LLP Settlement scheme is already in vogue to provide a first of its kind opportunity to both
companies and LLPs to make good any filing related defaults, irrespective of duration of
default, and make a fresh start as a fully compliant entity.
More about the schemes
• The Fresh Start scheme and modified LLP Settlement Scheme incentivise compliance and
reduce compliance burden during the unprecedented public health situation caused by
COVID-19.

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• Both the schemes provide one-time waiver of additional filing fees for delayed filings by the
companies or LLPs with the Registrar of Companies. during the period starting from 1st April,
2020 and ending on 30th September, 2020. (called as the currency of the Schemes).
• The Schemes give longer timelines for corporates to comply with various filing requirements
under the Companies Act 2013 and LLP Act, 2008.
• Both significantly reduce the related financial burden on them, especially for those with long
standing defaults, thereby giving them an opportunity to make a “fresh start”.
• Both the Schemes also contain provision for giving immunity from penal proceedings,
including against imposition of penalties for late submissions and also provide additional
time for filing appeals before the concerned Regional Directors against imposition of
penalties, if already imposed.
• Immunity under the scheme - only against delayed filings in MCA21 and not against any
substantive violation of law.

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WWW.EDUTAP.CO.

1|P a g e W WW. E D U T AP . CO . I N QUERY? HELLO@EDUTAP.CO.IN / 8146207241

Let us look at RBI Gr B first:

Phase 1 – GA Phase 2 – ESI Phase 2 – FM

Now let us take a look at NABARD Gr A and B examination:

Phase 1 – GA Phase 1 - ESI Phase 1- ARD Phase 2 – ESI

Why this division?

E) None of the above

Let us take another example.

E) None of the above

3|P a g e W WW. E D U T AP . CO . I N QUERY? HELLO@EDUTAP.CO.IN / 8146207241

Let us take one last example:

In which of the following years was e-NAM launched?

E) None of the above

What about this question?

C) Utpal Kumar Ganguly

E) None of the above

4|P a g e W WW. E D U T AP . CO . I N QUERY? HELLO@EDUTAP.CO.IN / 8146207241

E) None of the above

How to read this document for Phase 1?

How to read this document for Phase 2?

5|P a g e W WW. E D U T AP . CO . I N QUERY? HELLO@EDUTAP.CO.IN / 8146207241

7|P a g e W WW. E D U T AP . CO . I N QUERY? HELLO@EDUTAP.CO.IN / 8146207241

8|P a g e W WW. E D U T AP . CO . I N QUERY? HELLO@EDUTAP.CO.IN / 8146207241

9|P a g e W WW. E D U T AP . CO . I N QUERY? HELLO@EDUTAP.CO.IN / 8146207241

1.2 New explosive detection device unveiled at NWED-2020

1.4 Finance Minister Sitharaman addresses at 44th Civil Accounts Day

1.5 Minister Amit Shah inaugrated NSG Regional Hub at Kolkata

1.6 Ports review meeting held in Malappuram

1.7 Week Long Exhibition-cum-Fair begins in New Delhi

1.9 Arunachal Pradesh Assembly goes paperless

1.10 SCR launches QR Code Tickets

1.11 Facebook launches multi-lingual ‘More Together’ ad campaign in India

1.13 Jammu civic body renames historic civic chowk

1.14 UP: famous Rangotsav begins at Barsana in Mathura

1.15 Nataka Academy to host Vrutti Rangabhoomi Natakotsa

1.18 68th All India Police Athletic Championship began in Haryana

1.19 Western Railway announces bonus for every recharge to R-Wallet

1.20 Earthquakes in India at three-year high in 2019

1.21 PM to address Economic Times Global Business Summit

1.23 ICONSAT 2020 begins in Kolkata

1.24 Setting Up of Port in Maharashtra

1.25 Delhi govt forms task force to tackle coronavirus threat

1.26 Google announces its plans to open Delhi Cloud Region

1.27 Poetry Festival begins in Kolkata

1.28 Fourth Global Ayurveda Festival to be held at Kochi from May 16

1.30 Paytm, Hyderabad Metro tie up for QR-based tickets

1.32 Aurangabad Airport renamed as Chhatrapati Sambhaji Maharaj Airport

1.33 Chapchar Kut festival celebration begins in Mizoram

1.34 3 day Namaste Orchha festival begins in Madhya Pradesh

1.36 Jewar airport gets international recognition

1.37 TCL Electronics organises helmet awareness campaign

1.38 Aircraft museum to come up at Kakinada

1.39 Conference on Women in Police and CAPFs held in New Delhi

1.42 Railways conducts 10-day gender equality campaign

1.43 Ranchi launches its own Community Radio Station

1.44 Online Customer Satisfaction Survey of Delhi Metro to be held

1.45 3rd All- Women Post Office opens in New Delhi

1.47 International film fete held

1.48 BLive organises E-bicycling tours in the Nilgiris

1.49 World Coffee Congress held in Bengaluru

1.50 Global corporate earning to drop 10% in 2020: Citigroup