August, 2020

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Current Affairs [PDF] - August 1-31, 2020
Last Updated: September 23, 2020
नननननननन नननन
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Contents
August 1, 2020
1. India celebrates 1st August as Muslim Women’s Rights Day
2. Reliance Power in Collaboration with JERA set to Build Power Plant in Bangladesh
3. Walmart-owned Flipkart’s Samarth Programme supports 6 Lakh artisans across India to sell their products
online
4. India Imposes Import Restrictions on Color TV Sets
5. One in every Three Child are Poisoned by Lead: UNICEF Report
6. Apple becomes world’s most valuable company
7. Government notification on E-invoicing
8. One Nation One Card Scheme integrates four more States/UT’s
9. Arab World’s first ever nuclear reactor starts its operation
August 3, 2020
10. Vidyarthi Vigyaan Manthan 2020-21: Key highlights
11. NASA Astronauts returns back safely
12. ICMR to keep track of hospitalized patients of COVID-19
13. Government to review Chinese language programmes across universities
14. International webinar on Lokmanya Tilak: Key facts
15. Rajasthan starts Indira Rasoi Yojana
16. Khadi Agarbatti Aatmanirbhar Mission Launched: Highlights
17. Guidelines for drone operating system: Key Facts
18. E-Raksha Bandhan launched in Andhra Pradesh
19. India to start trial of Oxford COVID-19 vaccine
August 4, 2020
20. UK envoy to India got promoted
21. US Impose restrictions on H1B Visa
22. Tamil Nadu disagrees with centre’s Three Language Policy
23. UK to mint coin in remembrance of Gandhi Ji
24. EIA Notification 2020: Key facts
25. OXY2 developed by IIT-M: Highlights
26. Sashidhar Jagdishan is the new CEO of HDFC Bank
27. Pak appoints three senior lawyers in Kulbhushan Jadhav’s Case
28. Golf Resort at Thenzawl inaugurated
29. Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020: Overview
August 5, 2020
30. Pakistan’s new political map
31. Lebanon trembles with devastating blast
32. Demise of Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Shivajirao Patil Nilangekar
33. Swachh Bharat Kranti: Highlights
34. The First General Council Meeting of Khelo India: Highlights
35. GoI launches NCDC YouTube Channel “Sahakar Cooptube NCDC India”
36. First Anniversary of creation of Ladakh and J&K celebrated
37. What is Swachh Bharat Kranti?
August 6, 2020
38. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Girish Chandra Murmu resigned
39. India contributes 15 million USD to India-UN Development Partnership Fund
40. Japan marks 75 years of atomic bomb attacks on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
41. First Mobile RT-PCR lab of India developed by IISc launched in Karnataka
42. Ammonium Nitrate: The Beirut Explosion
43. RBI Monetary Policy: Bank keeps repo rate unchanged
44. Facts Box: YSR Cheyutha Scheme
45. Facts Box: First Snow Leopard Conservation Centre of India
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46. RBI launches “Innovation Hub” for Financial Inclusion
47. August 7: National Handloom Day
48. GoI extends Line of Credit worth 18 million USD to Maldives
August 8, 2020
49. Facts Box: Delhi electric Vehicle Policy
50. Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020
51. United Nations releases 6 million USD in response to Beirut Explosion
52. Mauritius declares emergency over oil spill
53. PM Modi to launch financing facility under Agriculture Infrastructure Fund
54. G C Murmu takes oath as Comptroller Auditor General
55. Facts Box: Consumer Confidence Survey
56. Kamath Panel constituted by RBI to restructure loans
57. PM Modi to inaugurate Submarine Optical Fibre Cable between Chennai and Port Blair
August 9, 2020
58. IBBI amends Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India Regulations, 2017
59. August 9: World Tribal Day
60. 78th anniversary of Quit India Movement observed
61. Facts Box: Envistats India 2020 report
62. India bans 101 Defence items
63. Sri Lanka: Mahinda Rajapaksa takes oath as Prime Minister
64. Indian Railways to transport dyes to Bangladesh from Gujarat after Chillies from AP
August 10, 2020

65. Bangladesh constructs war memorial for Indian Soldiers killed in 1971
66. Facts Box: Kozhikode Flight Accident and Tabletop Airport
67. KVIC: First Silk Training cum Production Centre in Arunachal Pradesh
68. FSSAI: No sale of junk food within 50 metres of schools
69. GoI scraps Powerloom Board after Handloom Board
70. Defence Minister launches Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah
71. Indian Railways to observe “Cleanliness Week”
72. 77 new species of butterfly found in Maharashtra
73. Andhra Pradesh State Industrial Development Policy 2020-23
74. eSanjeevani Medicine Platform: 1.5 lakh Online Consultations provided
75. Pathogens listed Critical by World Health Organization found in River Yamuna
76. SURAKHSYA: National Portal of “Project Elephant” launched
77. Mount Sinabung Volcano of Indonesia erupts
August 11, 2020

78. Huge amount of Carbon Dioxide released by Himalayan Geothermal Springs
79. Chhattisgarh to launch “Indira Van Mitan Yojana”
80. COVAX Facility of WHO renews its invitation
81. Dashboard for National Infrastructure Pipeline launched
82. August 12: World Elephant Day
83. Indian Armed Forces revive “Project Cheetah”
84. Gujarat launches Mukhya Mantri Kisan Sahay Yojana
August 12, 2020

85. SC Judgement: Women have Equal Rights on Parental Property
86. Tribal Freedom fighters Museum developed by GoI
87. Kamala Harris, an Indian Origin nominated as US Vice President candidate
88. India test fires first Private Upper Stage Rocket Engine
89. PM Modi to launch “Transparent Taxation-Honouring the Honest”
90. COVID-19: Israel shares high end technology with AIIMS
91. August 12: International Youth Day
92. “Elephants. Not Commodities” Report: 200 elephants in India are in inadequate conditions
93. PM SVANidhi Scheme: 5 lakh loan applications from street vendors
94. COVID-19: National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration meets for the first time
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95. Two Light Combat Helicopters of HAL deployed in Ladakh
96. Lok Sabha: New French Course launched
August 13, 2020

97. GoI panel proposes two formats of Business Responsibility Report
98. NASA Planet Hunter TESS finds 66 new Exoplanets
99. Indian Institute of Meteorology Study: Lakshadweep Corals have answers about Indian Monsoon
100. China extends anti-dumping Tariff on Indian Fibre Optic Product
101. ARUNODOI: Assam to launch mega scheme for Women Financial Empowerment
102. NITI Aayog: Oracle Cloud selected to transform Aspirational Districts
103. GoI allows sales of Electric Vehicles without BATTERIES
104. India extends 1 million USD to Antigua and Barbuda to combat COVID-19
105. Israel successfully test fires advanced Missile Defence System
106. India provides 500 million USD assistance to Maldives
107. AMRUT Scheme Ranking: Odisha continues to be the Top Performer
108. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy receive proposals over 10 GW of fresh solar power Equipment
August 15, 2020

109. United Nations defeats US demand to extend Arms Embargo on Iran
110. SRIJAN: Online Portal launched to promote Indigenisation of Defence Production
111. Central Water Commission and Google launch Flood forecasting Initiative
112. National Digital Health Mission launched
113. India sends Humanitarian aid to Lebanon to assist Beirut Explosion Victims
114. Arunachal Pradesh Government forms panel to discuss autonomous regions in the state
115. PM Modi launches Optic Fibre Link connecting Lakshadweep Islands with the mainland
116. Naga Independence Day celebrated in Nagaland and Manipur
117. PM Modi launches Project Lion, Project Dolphin during I-Day celebrations
August 16, 2020

118. M S Dhoni, Suresh Raina retire from International Cricket
119. Facts Box: Israel-UAE Peace Pact
120. What is Atal Innovation Mission Artificial Intelligence Step Up Module?
121. Facts Box: India ranks first in Organic Farming
122. Group of Ministers: E-Way Bill for Intra-State Movement of Gold
123. Taiwan purchases F-16 jets from US
124. PM Modi to inaugurate Atal Tunnel by September 2020
125. BRICS Anti-Drug Working Group held
126. USFDA clears simple Saliva test called “SALIVA DIRECT” to detect COVID-19
127. August 16: Death Anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee
August 17, 2020

128. Defence Minister approves proposal to expand NCC in 173 border areas and coastal districts
129. NTPC develops infrastructure for increased use of Fly Ash
130. Mauritius Oil Spill: India deputes 10-member specialist team under Mission SAGAR
131. DRDO developed Anti-Drone System deployed in 74th I-Day celebrations
132. UK launches 3 million pounds Innovation Challenge Fund in India
133. World Tallest Pier Bridge in Manipur; 13 new Highway Projects in Manipur
134. Karnataka to build Industrial Corridor between Bidar and Mysuru
135. New COVID-19 strain with 10-times more infection rate detected in Malaysia
136. MPEDA opens Quality Control Lab in Porbandar; India misses Sea Food Export Target in 2019-20
137. SWASTHYA Portal and ALEKH e-newsletter launched by Ministry of Tribal Affairs
August 18, 2020

138. International Solar Alliance to hold World Solar Technology Summit for the first time
139. India-Nepal agree to hasten India-aided Development Projects
140. 13th India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting held virtually
141. PM Modi reviews Multi-Modal Connectivity of Economic Zones Project
142. CAMPA Funds to be used for Plantation drives and afforestation alone
143. Dwarf Planet Ceres of Solar System is now an Ocean World
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144. SC Judgement on PM CARES Funds
145. Facts Box: National Cyber Security Policy, 2020 soon
146. Satya Pal Malik appointed as Governor of Meghalaya
147. Atal Rankings of Institutions on Innovative Achievements, 2020 (ARIIA 2020)
August 19, 2020

148. Dhanwantari Rath: Ayurveda at doorsteps of Delhi Police Families
149. ADB approves 1 billion USD for Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System
150. South Atlantic Anomaly: NASA confirms dent in the Earth’s Magnetic field
151. Drone based Surveillance System introduced in Indian Railways
152. Swadeshi Microprocessor Challenge
153. Uttar Pradesh Electronics Manufacturing Policy
154. National Cancer Registry Programme Report, 2020
155. Union Cabinet approved National Recruitment Agency
156. ILO-ADB Report: 41 lakh Indian Youths to lose job due to COVID-19
August 20, 2020

157. Framework for Authorisation of Pan-India Umbrella Entity for Retail Payments released by RBI
158. Union Cabinet: Three Airports redevelopment approved
159. National Commission on Population: India’s Population to be more feminine in 2036
160. India attends World Conference of Speakers of Parliament
161. Swacch Survekshan 2020
162. India attends AINTT (ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks)
163. India, Japan and Australia to launch “Supply Chain Resilience Initiative” to counter China
August 21, 2020

164. Rajasthan Government launches Indira Rasoi Yojna
165. RBI unveils National Strategy for Financial Education 2020-2025
166. Ramesh Chand Task Force recommends linking sugarcane prices to sugar rates
167. India and Israel New Cultural Agreement: Key Points
168. Madhya Pradesh to offer jobs based on CET conducted by NRA
169. Chandrayaan-2 completes a year around Moon
August 22, 2020

170. Harit Path: Mobile Application to monitor plantation along National Highway launched by NHAI
171. Myanmar Government and Armed Groups signed Ceasefire Implementation
172. Rajiv Kumar, former finance secretary appointed as Election Commissioner
173. Spain: First West Nile Virus Death
174. ESIC extends Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojana
175. Myanmar pushes back against China funded China-Myanmar Economic Corridor
176. GoI: 21 Centres of Excellence to be launched to incubate new technologies
177. Turkey discovers Natural Gas reserves in Black Sea
178. Power Sector: Trancos and Gencos to charge 12% cap on Late Payment Surcharge
August 23, 2020

179. National Council for Transgender Persons constituted
180. Facts Box: Dragonfly Festival
181. 412 Infrastructure Projects hit by Cost Over run of Rs 4.11 lakh crores
182. Facts Box: BIS draft standard for drinking water supply
183. GoI proposes stricter norms for construction machinery
184. What is One Sun, One World, One Grid Project?
185. Facts Box: National Sports Awards, 2020
186. Centre to States: Include all eligible disabled persons under NFSA, 2013
August 24, 2020

187. Farm Sector grows as GDP contracts for first time in India
188. Indian Railways generate 6,40,000 days of work under Garib Kalyan Rozgar Abhiyan
189. India’s longest ropeway on Brahmaputra to open for public in Guwahati
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190. Nuakhai Juhar Festival celebrated in Chhattisgarh and Odisha
191. ARIES Astronomers trace mystery behind dwarf galaxy
192. China sells most advanced warship to Pakistan
193. USFDA authorizes blood plasma therapy for COVID-19
194. Finance Minister: Businesses with annual turnover of up to Rs 40 lakhs exempted from GST
195. Karnataka Government to build “Transit Homes” for Migrant Workers
196. India-Uzbekistan hold first National Coordination Committee meeting
197. India-AIIB sign agreement of 500 million USD
198. Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan: DRDO identifies 108 systems and subsystems to design, develop and
manufacture
August 25, 2020

199. Indian Air Force launches MY IAF Application
200. WHO: Healthcare workers to get COVID-19 vaccine after senior citizens
201. International Conference on Climate Change and its Impact on Himalayan Region to be held in India
202. India’s ASTROSAT makes rare Discovery
203. Rare fish called “Mahseer” sighted in Sileru river
204. Women share in NREGS dips to 8-year low
205. Bangladesh: Rohingyas to be relocated to Bashan Char Island
206. RBI Annual Report 2019-20
207. INS Viraat to be dismantled in Gujarat
208. INTERPOL issues Red Notice against Nirav Modi wife
209. MUDRA loan: Tamil Nadu Women top the list
August 26, 2020

210. Supreme Court: “Char Dham Pariyojana has caused long term damage”
211. Indian Table Tennis Star Poulomi Ghatak retires
212. GoI to identify illegal beneficiaries of PM-KISAN
213. AFSPA extended for six more months in Assam
214. Average Monthly Income of workers under MGNREGA doubled during lock down
215. E-Auction Portal launched for Kashmir Saffron
216. WHO declares Africa free of Wild Polio
217. India-Bangladesh to open inland waterways
218. KIRAN: Mental Rehabilitation Health line to be launched by Social Justice Ministry
219. Export Preparedness Index, 2020 released by NITI Aayog
220. BRICS Industry Ministers Video Meeting in 5G and AI
August 27, 2020

221. Facts Box: India-Vietnam Joint Commission Meeting
222. National Health Authority releases Draft Health Data Management Policy
223. GoI to deliver services of UMANG Application through Common Service Centres
224. Rs 1,200 crore plan to link Ladakh with National Grid
225. Russia released testing video of the largest ever Hydrogen bomb blast
226. GoI sets up Expert Panel to redefine DRDO
227. PRATHEEKSHA: First Marine Ambulance launched by Kerala Government
228. 41st GST Council meet
229. 78 new routes under UDAN 4.0
230. GoI launches National GIS-enabled Land Bank System
August 28, 2020

231. Department of Pension and Pensioners Welfare integrates E-Pension Payment with Digi Locker
232. Marieke Lucas Rijneveld: The youngest author to win International Booker Prize
233. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana completes six years of journey
234. Government to bring 11 ordinances during Monsoon Session of Parliament
235. Supreme Court: “States can make sub categories in reserved categories”
236. Arunachal Pradesh passes resolution to bring the state under Schedule VI of Indian Constitution
237. Centre for Science and Environment: India recycles only 1% of its demolition and construction waste
238. India’s first International Women Trade Centre to be set up in Kerala
239. PFRDA: Around 2 million opt for Atal Pension Yojana
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240. Assam to set up Skill University at Mangaldoi
241. Japan’s longest serving Prime Minister Shinzo Abe resigns
August 29, 2020

242. Facts Box: NITI Aayog launches Nationally Determined Contributions Transport Initiative for Asia (NDC-
TIA)
243. Facts Box: ASEAN-India Business Council Meet
244. August 29: National Sports Day
245. United Nations to renew, reduce Lebanon Peace Keeping Forces
246. 14th India-Singapore Defence Policy Dialogue
247. Chunauti: Next Generation Start Up Challenge contest
248. Punjab passes resolution against farm ordinances
249. Supreme Court issues notice to GoI on PIL to identify minorities at State Level
250. Facts Box: Rules for administration in Jammu and Kashmir
August 30, 2020

251. AGRIOTA: E-Market Platform to bridge Indian rural farmers and UAE food industry
252. Redevelopment of New Delhi Railway Station at Rs 6,500 crores
August 31, 2020

253. 17th ASEAN-India Economic Ministers Consultations held
254. Measurement and Monitoring Water supply under Jal Jeevan Mission
255. Delimitation Panel to visit four NE states and Jammu and Kashmir
256. India to start bidding process of procuring six submarines
257. India First Policy of Sri Lanka
258. India Sea Plane services to begin from October 31
259. India opts out of Kavkaz 2020
260. Facts Box: United Nations Guidelines on Access to Social Justice for people with Disabilities
261. Supreme Court imposes token penalty of Re 1 on Prashant Bhushan as punishment
262. Ministry of Defence sets up committee to review AFHQ
263. Former President Pranab Mukherjee Passes Away
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August 1, 2020
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1. India celebrates 1st August as Muslim Women’s Rights Day
On the occasion of the first anniversary of law-making Triple Talaq a criminal offence
which got Presidential nod last year after getting approval from the Parliament, the day
is declared as the Muslim Women’s Rights Day across the country. Triple Talaq Bill was
passed in the Lok Sabha on 25th July 2019 with 79% of MP voting in favour and 21%
voting against it. Further, it was passed by the Rajya Sabha on 30th July 2019 with 54%
votes in favour and 46% voting against it. Finally, after getting the Presidential nod it
became a law in the country.
1. Triple Talaq
Triple Talaq also known as “talaq-e-biddat” was a special provision bestowed upon
Muslim man by the Muslim Personal Law (Shariat) Application Act of 1937. The law
legalised and allowed the practice of Triple Talaq which gave Muslim husband some
special privileges over his wife. This law has provisions which allowed the husband to
cancel all marital ties with his wife by simply uttering “talaq” word three times.
2. Triple Talaq Act

The bill makes any such act of divorce a legal offence and makes it void and illegal. The
act further states that any man whosoever practices Triple Talaq mode of divorce shall
be punished with an imprisonment of three years or fine or both. The offence is non-
bailable and entitles the married woman to take custody of her minor children.
3. Impact after a year of its implementation

The country has seen a decline of 82% in the triple talaq case since the implementation
of the act. As per a data from the ministry officials which were collected from various
Waqf boards, around 383,000 cases of Triple Talaq were reported in India from 1985
until the formation of Act in 2019. After the implementation of the new act post-July
2019, only 1,039 cases of triple talaq were recorded.
2. Reliance Power in Collaboration with JERA set to Build Power Plant in

Bangladesh
Reliance Bangladesh LNG and Power a joint venture between India’s Reliance Power and
Japan’s JERA are all set to develop a new gas-fired power generation project in
Bangladesh through their project company. A total of $642 million with a group of banks
which includes the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) has been allocated.
1. What this project is all about

In this joint venture, the project company will be building and operating a 745 MW
natural gas combined-cycle power project in Meghnaghat, Naranganj, which is located
approximately 40 km southeast of Dhaka the capital city of Bangladesh.
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2. Construction
The upcoming plant at Dhaka will be powered by two GE 9F gas turbines, one GE D11
steam turbine and three H53 generators. GE (General Electric) an American
multinational conglomerate and a leading player in natural gas power technology will be
providing the advanced gas turbine technology to the plant. Engineering, Procurement
and Construction (EPC) group Samsung C&T will build the Meghnaghat power plant.
3. Conclusion
This project a joint venture of India’s Reliance Power and Japan’s JERA is expected to
give an enormous boost to the economic and industrial growth of Bangladesh. The
power plant will supply electricity to more than 8,50,000 homes in Bangladesh by
utilising re-gasified liquified natural gas (LNG).
3. Walmart-owned Flipkart’s Samarth Programme supports 6 Lakh

artisans across India to sell their products online
Walmart-owned Flipkart on Friday announced that 6 lakh artisans across the country will
be added this year to their Samarth programme which was launched last year in 2019.
1. Samarth Programme
Samarth is an initiative started by Flipkart in 2019 wherein, the e-commerce company
had collaborated with five non-governmental organisations (NGOs) to help local artisans
use the online e-commerce platform to sell their products. The programme helps around
six lakh artisans (weavers, craftsmen etc.) earn their bread and butter by selling their
hand made art & craftwork across the country to a customer base of nearly 200 million.
After the partnership with NGO’s and Government the company has been able to bring
on board the artisans from the various remotest parts of Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar
Pradesh, Bihar, Gujarat, Punjab and Karnataka.
2. Other Initiatives
Over the course of the year in addition to Samarth programme, Flipkart has collaborated
with a lot of NGOs and governmental entities which includes, Gujarat State Handloom
and Handicrafts Development Corporation, Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana National Urban
Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NULM) and UP Khadi and Village Industries Board. Walmart-
owned Flipkart also supports MSMEs through a special initiate called, Walmart Vriddhi. It
is a make in India Initiative which empowers nearly 50,000 MSMEs to manufacture ‘Make
in India’ product for local and global markets. The company provides necessary training
and support along with access to a huge e-commerce ecosystem of its peers and
mentors group.
4. India Imposes Import Restrictions on Color TV Sets
Following a ban on popular Chinese applications, the Indian Government has moved the
import of Color TV sets from free to restricted. India imports the majority of TV sets from
China. This move by the government is aimed to promote PM Modi’s vision of “Vocal for
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Local” which will boost domestic manufacturing and balance the trade deficit the country
is currently facing against China.
1. What does the new move mean?

The restriction announced recently by the DGFT (Directorate General of Foreign Trade)
states that the import policy of the Color TV sets has been amended from free category
to the restricted category. Importers of those items which is in the restricted category
have to seek a license from the commerce ministry of DGFT for imports.
2. Impact on Business
In the last financial year, Colour television sets worth $781 million were imported in the
country most of which came from Vietnam and China of $428 million and $292 million
respectively. After the recent move taken by government Vietnam and China will be the
country suffering majorly from this trade. However, the end buyer is not likely to suffer
any change in price as most of the manufacturing company have their manufacturing
units in India.
3. Other Major Advancements

After the recent India-China border clash at Galwan Valley, the government has taken
very strict move. Railway and road tenders secured by Chinese Companies are
cancelled. The Centre has also imposed a ban on numerous Chinese apps including very
popular video-sharing app “Tik-Tok” on national security ground. Before this, the Union
Power Minister disallowed the import of power equipment from China and Pakistan
giving the reason of cybersecurity threats.
5. One in every Three Child are Poisoned by Lead: UNICEF Report
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) in a recent report which is first of its kind
published impact of lead on children’s health across the world. As per the recent report
one in every three children is being poisoned by lead.
1. What does the report say?

World’s one-third child population which is nearly around 800 million are affected by
lead poisoning. Among the total affected nearly half of them are from South Asia. India
accounts for nearly 275,561,163 of these cases.
2. What harm does it make?

Lead is a potent neurotoxin which harms the brains of small children irreparably even
before they are allowed a chance to develop. This severe harm can lead to lifelong
cognitive, neurological and physical impairment.
3. Who is more prone to it?

Mainly children from lower economic country and strata work in the factories where the
recycle of lead is done. Also, parents who work in such factories often bring
contaminated dust home on their hair, cloth, hands, shoes thus unknowingly exposing
their child to the deadly toxic element. However, the president of Pure Earth in an
interview said that the lead can be recycled safely without exposing workers.
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6. Apple becomes world’s most valuable company
After reporting its blockbuster Quarterly result stock of Apple Inc increased 10% to a
record high making Apple world’s most valuable publicly listed company. The company
has shown a great recovery from its low-point in March during the pandemic.
1. Background
As per the share count provided by Apple Inc. Its stock closed at $425.04 putting
company’s market capitalization at $1.82 trillion. Even Saudi Arabia’s State-owned Saudi
Aramco which had been the most valuable publicly listed company since the time it went
public last year had a market capitalization of $1.760 trillion. This unprecedented event
which added $172 billion was Apple’s largest one-day percentage gain since March 13. It
was even greater than the entire stock market value of Oracle group;
2. Reason Behind
Amid the current pandemic when everywhere there is a surge for electronic devices for
working online, the company saw increased demand for its devices. Its total revenue for
Q3 hit $59.7 billion, which is 11 per cent higher from the last financial year. Strong Mac
and iPad sales were a highlight. The company also announced a four-for-one stock split
as part of its Q3 earnings, which will decrease the price of an individual stock.
7. Government notification on E-invoicing
The central government comes up with a centralized e-invoicing scheme for business
having turnover more than 500 crores. As per the recent scheme, it will be mandatory
for all those businesses with a turnover of more than 500 crores to generate all their B2B
invoices on a centralized government portal which will go live from 1st October.
1. Why this new move?

Till now, all the companies be it, small-cap, mid-cap or large-cap use their own
mechanism for generating invoices. These invoices vary company to company and can
be forged easily to manipulate the buyer or for doing any other forgery. To curb this the
government in association with the Central Board of Indirect Taxes and Customs (CBIC)
has come up with an initiative wherein it will be mandatory for business with turnover
more than 500 crores to generate an e-invoice through a centralized governmental
portal for all their B2B sales.
2. Background
The talk about this system was first heard in town in November last year. Then the
proposal was to make this system mandatory for businesses with turnover over 100
crores and the system was set to be implemented by 1st April itself. However, due to
some technical fault, the system couldn’t arrive in time.
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3. Benefits
The single centralized e-invoicing system brings with it a lot of advantages. The return
filing process will become much easier for the businesses as after the introduction of this
centralized system the invoice data would be captured easily without any delay. The
fake invoice generation for forgery will reduce and finally will be removed. GST
department will have access to real-time data as the business transactions move
through the real world. This will eventually lead to easing in the generation of high-level
data analytics.
8. One Nation One Card Scheme integrates four more States/UT’s
The Union Minister of Consumer Affairs Ram Vilas Paswan extended the One Nation One
card scheme to four more states and UT’s Jammu & Kashmir, Manipur, Nagaland and
Uttarakhand. With this new move, the scheme has now been enabled in 24 states and
UT’s across the country.
1. What is the scheme?

Under the scheme “One Nation One Ration Card” a beneficiary of a ration card
regardless of their location in the country can avail ration under the National Food
Security Act (NFSA) through one of their ration cards. Apart from the above mentioned
four states, 20 states have already been integrated with the scheme in the past.
Formerly integrated 20 States and UTs are: – Andhra Pradesh, Bihar, Dadra & Nagar
Haveli, Daman & Diu, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka,
Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Mizoram, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim,
Telangana, Tripura, and Uttar Pradesh.
2. What is NFSA?
The National Food Security Act 2013 widely known as the Right to Food Act was made
into law on 12th September 2013. This act of the Indian Parliament was implemented
with the aim to subsidized food grains to approximately two-thirds of the population’s of
the country which is nearly 1.2 billion people. There is a various food security
programme which runs under NFSA act like, Mid-day meal scheme, Integrated Child
Development Services Scheme, and the Public Distribution Scheme. Under PDS (Public
Distributed Scheme) beneficiaries are entitled to get grains at very nominal rates. Rice is
at 3 Rs. Wheat at 2 Rs. Millets at 1Rs. However Pregnant women, lactating mothers, and
certain categories of children are eligible for daily free cereals.
9. Arab World’s first ever nuclear reactor starts its operation
Oil-rich Gulf state UAE finally starts its first-ever nuclear reactor “Barakah” at Abu Dhabi
on the Gulf coast. Barakah was expected to start its operation in 2017. However, due to
various safety issue, it kept on getting delayed.
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1. Barakah in Brief
Developed in a joint venture with the Emirates Nuclear Energy Corporation (ENEC) and
Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO) Barakah means “blessing” in Arabic. In
association with KEPCO, the nuclear reactor power plant has begun the process of
nuclear fission in one of its four reactors. The energy in the reactor plant will be
generated by 1,400-megawatt pressurised water reactors, designed in South Korea,
called APR-1400. For now, only one of four reactors are working, however, the aim of the
country is to have its all four reactors set to the operational mode by 2023. This will
produce around 5.6 gigawatts of the energy which will be enough to serve a quarter of
the country’s need for electricity in a safe, reliable and emission-free way.
2. Other Developments
The watchdog of Nuclear Industry (IAEA) International Atomic Energy Agency in its
praising tweet wrote that the “plant’s Unit 1 had achieved its first criticality – that is,
generation of a controlled fission chain reaction. The oil-rich Gulf state UAE is seen
investing heavily in solar power. A couple of weeks ago the country sent a probe on a
Mars Mission which is also one of its first kind in the Gulf region.
August 3, 2020
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10. Vidyarthi Vigyaan Manthan 2020-21: Key highlights
The Union Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan recently launched an
innovative initiative Vidyarthi Vigyaan Manthan 2020-21 (VVM). This initiative under the
national programme is created to make science an interesting study among students
from class 6 to 11.
1. Objective
While It was designed to identify the young bright minds with a scientific aptitude among
the student group. VVM conducts a timely aptitude test to identify a child who has a
knack for science. A highly ambitious student is provided with a mentor to carry forward
their education in the field of science. Through this new programme, the student will
help in constructing the new India.
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2. About
VVM (Vidyarthi Vigyan Manthan) In collaboration with Vigyan Prasar, which is an
autonomous organization under the Department of Science and Technology,
Government of India and NCERT (National Council of Educational Research and Training),
is an initiative of Vijnana Bharati (VIBHA) also popularly known as Vigyan Bharti.
Students are made to participate through comprehensive writing, objective type
question and answers, role play, practical examination and by showing presentation and
getting involved in a group discussion with peers. A trip to National Science Laboratories
and interactions with country’s renowned scientists is organised for the winners of
Vidyarthi Vihyaan Manthan.
3. Vijnana Bharti
Largest scientific movement in India, founded in the year 1991 by the eminent scientists
of Indian Institute of Science Prof. K.I. Vasu. It is a Non-profit organisation previously
known as Swadeshi Science Movement. The organisation is dedicated to making pure
science popular by implementing modern science and ancient science techniques in
India.
11. NASA Astronauts returns back safely
Bob Behnken and Doug Hurley two US astronauts who were sent to the International
Space Station two months ago return to the planet Earth safely following a 21-hour
overnight journey. The astronaut were sent by NASA in collaboration with Elon Musk’s
company Space-X. The Crew Dragon designed and operated by Space-X which is also
being used for this flight test can stay in orbit about 110 days,
1. About
On 30th May 2020 at NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida, a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket
carrying the company’s Crew Dragon spacecraft was launched from Launch Complex
39A at 3:22 PM. This is leap and bound moment in the history of aeronautical science
when for the first time in the history, NASA sent their astronauts in a commercially built
and operated American crew spacecraft.
2. The objective of the mission

This Demo-2 mission in partnership with Elon Musk’s Space-X is the final major test
before NASA’s Commercial Crew Program approves and certifies Crew Dragon for
operational, long-duration missions to the space station. As SpaceX’s final flight test, it
will validate and re-confirm all aspects of its crew transportation system, including the
spacesuits, Falcon 9 launch vehicle, Crew Dragon spacecraft, launch pad 39A and
operations capabilities. While the vehicle is en route to the station, two US astronauts Mr
Behnken and Mr Hurley will take control of the Crew Dragon for two-manual flight tests,
also while demonstrating their ability to control the spacecraft the astronauts on board
will check whether the Crew Dragon will work perfectly fine when the need for
spacecraft’s automated flight will arise.
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3. Conclusion
After the successful mission the Crew Dragon Spacecraft along with both the astronauts
splashed safely in the waves of Florida’s Pensacola coast on schedule time at 2:48 PM.
With this successful landing, the Elon Musk’s Space-X has become the first-ever private
company to achieve this success.
12. ICMR to keep track of hospitalized patients of COVID-19
The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) with a joint effort of the health ministry
and the AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Science) is planning to set up the National
Clinical Registry (NCR) which will help country’s researchers and policymakers
understand the efficacy of investigational therapies, adverse effects taking place and
generate evidence for improving the treatment of Covid-19 patients.
1. Background
The whole world is badly affected by the novel coronavirus, SARS-CoV-2 and the illness it
is causing has so many unknown variable parameters that work as a blockade to the
proper understanding and management of the disease. We are in the very urgent need
of a systematically collected, comprehensive database which not only covers different
regions of the country but also the neighbouring regions enabling both researchers and
policymakers to generate an appropriate-hypotheses, to inform vital and crucial
understanding of COVID 19. Further, this effort will lead to detect trends in the
progression of the pandemic and to accordingly calibrate the response to the pandemic.
2. Efforts taken
The main idea behind this establishment is to generate and collect a piece of logical
evidence for improving the treatment of COVID-19 patients. To make this work possible
in-total fifteen top medical institutions of the country holding very fine repute including
the Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education & Research (PGIMER) in Chandigarh,
AIIMS Delhi, AIIMS Jodhpur, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences
(NIMHANS), Bengaluru and Armed Force Medical College in Pune etc. will connect with
the other hospitals and medical colleges which are involved in the treatment of COVID-
19 patients or in the sample checking of those affected.
3. Process involved
The main work of these top 15 medical institutions who would be the registry sites is to
help 100 major COVID-19 hospitals get on board. They would be mentoring around 100
Covid-19 hospitals across the country and these hundred hospitals would be called
satellite centres from where the data would be collected as part of the exercise.
13. Government to review Chinese language programmes across

universities
The Ministry of Education which was formerly known as the Ministry of Human Resource
Development is all set to put several higher education institutes that offer Chinese
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language training on the radar. Even those institutes that had links with the official
Chinese language learning and training department “Hanban” in the past are on close
scrutiny. Hanban is a Chinese organization which runs hundreds of Confucious Institutes
abroad.
1. Confucuous Institutes
Confucuous Institutes are publicly funded entities which are managed and supported by
Hanban which in itself is affiliated with the Chinese Ministry of Education. The main
agenda of the CIs is to deliver a programme which promotes Chinese language and
culture, helpa in cultural exchanges and support local Chinese teachings internationally.
CIs have been blamed several times for developing Chinese influences in the countries in
which it operates. The blame of espionage has also been tagged to them several times.
2. Steps taken
Currently, India has two functional CIs which operates within Mumbai University and the
Vellore Institute of Technology. The Ministry of Education has sent letters to at least five
institutions that offer Chinese language training, asking them to send all details of its
collaboration with the CIs since 2017. Further upon receiving it will be reviewed by
Education Secretary Amit Khare on 5th August 2020.
14. International webinar on Lokmanya Tilak: Key facts
A two-day international webinar on the 100th death anniversary of the great Indian
freedom fighter Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak was organized by the Indian Council for
Cultural Relations. This international webinar on the theme of Lokmanya Tilak – Swaraj
to Self-reliant India was inaugurated by the Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
1. Objective
During the webinar discussions revolved mainly around Tilak’s contribution to the Indian
Freedom Movement, his global vision, his thoughts on swadeshi and also his attempts at
India’s cultural revival.
2. Participants
On his 100th death anniversary, the webinar chaired by ICCR chief Vinay Sahasrabuddhe
witnessed a group of eminent historians like Gordon Johnson and Sadanand More, history
professor Rizwan Kadri, Muang Muang, a scholar who translated Tilak’s biography into
Burmese Vikas Paranjpe from Mumbai along with participants from various institutes.
3. Background
ICCR initial plan was to unveil a statue of Tilak at the Indian consulate in Mandalay (a
city in central Myanmar) where Tilak was sent for confinement for six months and to
name the consulates main hall after his name. However, the plan was put on hold due to
COVID-19 pandemic which has badly affected the globe.
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4. Key findings
The Home Minister in his long oratory speech mentioned the important role played by
Lokmanya Bal Gangadhar Tilak in the country’s freedom movement. The Union Minister
also talked about the slogan of ‘Swaraj is my birthright and I shall have it’ given by
Lokmanya Tilak, in his speech. He said it will always be written in golden letters in the
history of India’s freedom movement. The Minister also appealed to the youth of the
country, urging everyone to read the writings of the Tilak to understand the glorious
history of the nation.
15. Rajasthan starts Indira Rasoi Yojana
Rajasthan’s Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot recently directed his officials to commence
Indira Rasoi Yojana from 20Th August 2020. The CM said it is another step towards
realising the resolve of Rajasthan Government’s “No Hunger No Sleep”. Under this
scheme, the needy and poor will get healthy and nutritious food at 8 Rs per plate. The
state government will spend 100 Crores per year on the scheme.
1. About the Scheme

The Indira Rasoi Yojana named after former Indian Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, will run
in 358 kitchens in 213 urban local bodies of the state. Under the Yojana a menu of 100
grams of pulses, 100 grams of vegetables, 250 grams of chapati and pickles will be
served to 4.87 crore people every year. While all the necessary measures will be taken
to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus a monitoring committee at the State and
District level will be formed to ensure the quality of the food. All the beneficiary under
this scheme will get the information about the Yojana on his or her mobile phone as he
or she takes the coupon. Through an IT-enabled monitoring system the food preparation
in the kitchen will be monitored through mobile apps and CCTV.
2. Background
Before this Annapurna Yojana was in the action however, the recently launched Indira
Rasoi Yojana will be different. Beneficiaries won’t be fed through a movable kitchen
installed in a van. A permanent kitchen with a place for people to sit will be instead. It is
said that a total of 20 Rs. per plate will cost the government in which the state
government will pay 12 Rs. and the remaining 8 Rs. will be paid by the beneficiary.
3. Construction
Construction of 2 kitchens per Municipality and 5 kitchens per City council and a
maximum of 8 kitchens per municipal corporation will be done. The kitchen will be
constructed in a government or NGO building. The construction will be done is such a
manner that people can sit and eat on the premises itself. The management will be
inspired by Chennai’s “Amma Ki Rasoi”.
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16. Khadi Agarbatti Aatmanirbhar Mission Launched: Highlights
Proposed by KVIC (Khadi and Village Industries Commission) and approved by the
Minister of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises Nitin Gadkari Khadi Agarbatti
Aatmanirbhar Mission is all set to generate employment for the local artisans making
India self-reliant in agarbatti production.
1. Objective
The set programme is dedicated to creating employment for unemployed and migrant
workers across the country while increasing domestic agarbatti production substantially.
Last month itself the proposal was submitted to the Ministry. Upon its implementation,
numerous jobs will be created in the Agarbatti industry.
2. Government support
The scheme is designed by KVIC on PPP mode where a two-party agreement will be
signed between KVIC and the Private Agarbatti manufacturer for the successful running
of the project. Under the scheme, the automatic machine and powder mixing machine
will be provided by the KVIC to the artisans through the successful private Agarbatti
manufacturers. These manufacturers will sign the agreement as business partners.
Boosting PM Modi’s vision of vocal for local, KVIC has decided to procure only locally
made machines by Indian manufacturers which also aims at encouraging local
production.
3. Facts and Figures

One Automatic Agarbatti making machine makes approximately 80 Kg of Aggarbatti per
day thus providing direct employment to 4 persons. 5 such automatic agarbatti making
machine requires one powder mixing machine which further provides employment to 2
persons.
4. Earnings
The current market rare rate for Agarbatti making is Rs 15 per kg. Taking the current
rate in consideration 4 artisans working on one Automatic machine will earn a minimum
of Rs 1200 per day by manufacturing 80 kg of Agarbatti. And each artisan will earn a
fixed amount of Rs. 250 per day while working on a powder mixing machine. The wages
to the artisans and labourers will be provided by the business partners directly in their
accounts through Direct Benefits Transfer (DBT).
5. Consumption
The current consumption of incense sticks in the country is 1490 MT per day. however,
the country’s daily production is just 760 MT. Therefore this huge gap between the
demand and the supply will create immense scope for job creation.
17. Guidelines for drone operating system: Key Facts
Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) which is the Aviation security regulator in the
country has issued guidelines for drone operating systems, which act like cockpits on the
ground to remotely pilot the unmanned aerial vehicle.
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1. Objective
To develop global standard drone regulations that would permit, the commercial
application of various drone technologies the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation has worked
hard to establish a world-leading drone ecosystem in India. Because of the fact that the
unmanned aerial vehicle technology is still new and taking into consideration, India’s
security environment the preparation of these drone regulations through a Civil Aviation
Requirement (CAR) has taken multiple years. India has formulated an all-digital process
instead of simply formulating a paper-based process for registering and operating
drones. The Digital Sky Platform is one such fully digitalized national unmanned traffic
management (UTM) platform that says “no permission, no takeoff” (NPNT).
2. Guidelines
The owners or the users of any unmanned aerial vehicle will be required to do a one-
time registration of their drones. Except for the nano category, for remaining every flight
the users will require permission to fly on a mobile app. Any drone without a digital
permit to fly will simply not be able to takeoff to prevent unauthorized flights and to
ensure public safety. The Unmanned aircraft system traffic management (UTM) operates
as a traffic regulator in the drone airspace and coordinates closely with the defence and
civilian air traffic controllers (ATCs) to ensure that these unmanned aerial vehicles
remain on the approved flight paths.
18. E-Raksha Bandhan launched in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy on the eve of Raksha Bandhan
launched ‘E-Raksha Bandhan’, an online training programme on cybersecurity. The
programme is aimed at creating awareness among the public on cybercrimes across the
State,
1. Objective
The programme has massive support of various dignitaries including, Crime Investigation
Department (CID), FM Radio, The Andhra Pradesh Police, Cyber Peace Foundation, Cyber
Crime Prevention Against Women and Children (CCPWC), and other organisations for
organizing, advertising and creating mass awareness about the month-long online
awareness programme.
2. Implementation
Through ‘E-Raksha Bandhan’ as many as 1 lakh women, girls and the general public
would be trained. The participants will be trained through Essay writing, debates, quiz,
webinars, workshops, and slogan writing competitions which will be held every day on
different topics from 11 a.m. to 12 noon daily, until 31st August. The telecast of all these
events will be done on AP CID’s YouTube channel every-day starting at 11 in the
morning.
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3. Related highlights
While gracing the occasion the CM of Andhra Pradesh listed out various other steps
being taken by the state government to prevent crime against women. The CM praised
Disha Police Stations and also mentioned the investigation of 167 cases relating to crime
against women has been completed and charge sheets have been filed in the courts.
19. India to start trial of Oxford COVID-19 vaccine
India’s top drug regulatory body DCGI (The Drugs Controller General of India) finally
gave green signal to Serum Institute of India (SII) for conducting phase II and III clinical
trials of Astra Zeneca vaccine developed by the Oxford University against coronavirus
disease. The approval came after scrutiny was done based on the recommendations of
the group of a medical expert on COVID-19.
1. Background
The global pandemic has forced top medical experts and scientists to develop a safe and
effective vaccine against the disease. Since then several experiments have taken place
and some of them have even shown promising results in early trials. Currently, at least
26 vaccines are in a clinical evaluation with six of them in late-stage, phase 3 trials
according to a report published by the World Health Organization (WHO). As of July 31,
WHO’s draft of the landscape of COVID-19 vaccine shows that nearly 139 candidate
vaccines are in preclinical evaluation. Millions of people worldwide are affected by the
deadly virus. As the deadly virus continues to spread, researchers are working hard
using different methods to find a permanent solution against COVID-19. Several large-
scale studies are in pipeline to assess the safety and efficiency of some of the most
advanced vaccine candidates, including the Moderna mRNA vaccine, Pfizer-BioNTech
candidate, and Oxford’s Astra Zeneca COVID-19 vaccine etc. Amidst all this progress a
report from Russia claims that preparation of mass vaccination against CVOID-19 is set
to be completed by October. However, the country is yet to release any scientific data
on its vaccine trials.
2. About the trial

Around 1,600 people will participate in the clinical trial proposed to be undertaken at 17
selected institutes across the country which are, AIIMS-Delhi, AIIMS-Jodhpur, Nehru
Hospital in Gorakhpur, Andhra Medical College in Visakhapatnam, JSS Academy of Higher
Education and Research in Mysore, B J Medical College in Pune, Rajendra Memorial
Research Institute of Medical Sciences (RMRIMS) in Patna, and Post Graduate Institute of
Medical Education and Research in Chandigarh. Those volunteers who will take part in
the clinical trial must be above 18 years old. Each one of them will be administered two
doses four weeks apart. On day one first dose will be administered then following 29
days the second dose of medicine will be administered.
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3. Previous Results
The initial trial results of Covi-shield vaccine on candidate published in the medical
journal “The Lancet” has been made public by the Oxford University and it has shown
promising results. The preliminary trial results published in the medical journal stated
that the vaccine candidate was safe and induced immune reaction against SARS-CoV-2,
which causes Covid-19 and protect healthy people from infection.
August 4, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
20. UK envoy to India got promoted
British high commissioner to India Philip Barton on Monday got appointed as the
permanent under-secretary to head the newly merged Foreign, Commonwealth and
Development Office. This new appointment of Sir Philip Barton as the Permanent Under-
Secretary of the new ministry came just after the approval of United Kingdom’s Prime
Minister Boris Johnson and Foreign Secretary Dominic Raab.
1. The new Merger

UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson has earlier announced to the parliament that the
Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO) and the Department for International
Development (DFID) will merge to form the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development
Office (FCDO). This new ministry called FCDO will be established in 2020 and it will be
led by the Foreign Secretary. The function of the new ministry will involve a combined
function of DFID and FCO.
2. Why the new Merger

However former three Prime Ministers Tony Blair, Gordon Brown and David Cameron
have criticized the decision to merge DFID and FCO in the past. The current Prime
Minister Boris Johnson has justified its merger mentioning how it would strengthen
Britain’s position in an intensely competitive world. Further, he stated this new merger
will help a lot in other aspects too like, increasing focus on a specific issue, to encourage
collaboration between different policy areas, to improve the delivery of government
services.
3. DFID
Short form for Department for International Development. It was formed in the year
1997. The main goal of the department is to promote sustainable development and
eliminate world poverty. Its main work area involves sector of, Health, Education,
Government and Civil Society, Social Services, Production Sectors, Water Supply,
Sanitation, Economic Sector including Infrastructure, Environment Protection, Research,
and Humanitarian Assistance.
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21. US Impose restrictions on H1B Visa
US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order that bans federal agencies
from hiring foreign workers especially those on H-1B visa on contracting or
subcontracting.
1. Background
The unprecedented move is followed by a month old announcement by the Trump
government on June 23 where the administration announced that the H-1B visas along
with other types of foreign work visas will remain suspended until the end of 2020 to
protect American workers in a crucial election. This new restriction took effect from June
24. Also recently a federally owned corporation in the US called Tennessee Valley
Authority in a press release announced that the company will outsource 20 per cent of
its technology jobs to companies based in foreign countries. Through this new
announcement, the US was going to witness another 200 American workers losing their
jobs over the next five year.
2. What does the new rule say?

The new order makes it compulsory for all federal agencies to carry out an internal audit
to assess whether they are in compliance with the requirement of appointing only US
citizens and nationals to competitive service. The US Department of Labor will also issue
guidance to prevent H-1B employers from moving H-1B workers to other employer’s job
sites to displace American workers.
3. The need for the new order

US President Trump recently in a news briefing to US reporter stated that the H-1B visa
was never meant for top highly paid talent to create American jobs, not as inexpensive
labour programmes and destroy American job. He also mentioned that amidst this global
pandemic which has already cost millions of Americans their jobs, outsourcing hundreds
of workers is especially detrimental.
4. Coming up Next
Trump administration is also keen on discussing an immigration bill which will be merit-
based. The bill will be great for the worker and for the people who will legally enter into
the country wanting to help the country, Trump stated.
22. Tamil Nadu disagrees with centre’s Three Language Policy
Tamil Nadu Chief Minister Edappadi K Palaniswami is not seen in agreement with the
recently launched centre’s three-language policy proposed by the Union government in
the National Education Policy 2020. In a press release recently, the Chief Minister was
found stating that the state will never allow the Centre’s three-language policy rather
the state will continue with its dual language policy of Tamil and English.
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1. History behind
In 1968 Dravidian party leader CN Annadurai the then Chief Minister of the Tamil Nadu
announced in the State assembly that Tamil Nadu would follow only the two-language
policy Tamil and English. Also, in the year 1986 the AIADMK founder MG Ramachandran
the then Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu passed an assembly resolution that talks about
reinforcing the two-language policy.
2. What does the NEP 2020 states?

In a 60 page long New Education Policy which follow 5+3+3+4 mode the policy
advocates three language policy promoting multilingualism. The policy sates that, the
child will learn in his or her mother tongue till class five, upon which Hindi and English
along with the native language will be used to teach the curriculum. However, the policy
states there will be a greater flexibility in the three- language formula. There won’t be
any forced action on any of the states. Further, the new policy states that the three
languages learned by children will completely be the choices of states, regions, and of
course the students themselves, provided at least two of the language are native to
India.
23. UK to mint coin in remembrance of Gandhi Ji
Amid growing interest in recognizing the contributions of people from the BAME
community (Black, Asian and minority ethnic) Britain is considering minting a coin to
remember Mahatma Gandhi.
1. Objective
Rishi Sunak Britain’s current Finance Minister issued an order in a letter to the Royal Mint
Advisory Committee (RMAC) to pursue recognition of individuals from the BAME
community. Taking a step ahead in following the order RMAC will mint a coin to
commemorate Gandhi. While remembering Mahatma Gandhi the officials from the
department said in a statement, “Often referred to as “Father of the Nation” Mahatma
Gandhi, was born in the year 1869. He advocated for non-violence throughout his life
and played a key important role in India’s Freedom Movement. 2nd October, Mahatma’s
birthday is observed as the International Day of Non-Violence. Gandhi Ji died on January
30, 1948, just a few months after he led the country’s freedom from British rule”.
2. Reason Behind
Recently in the past, the death of a Black man, George Floyd, in the United States after a
Minneapolis police officer knelt on his neck for nearly nine minutes has triggered a large
ambush across the people not only in the US but worldwide. British institutions have
begun re-examining their past as part of a global reassessment of history, colonialism
and racism triggered by the recent protests. Since then many organizations have taken
initiatives to make investments to help the Black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME)
communities and to support racial diversity. Recently a lot of global protests against
racism, colonialism and police brutality has been seen after the death of George Floyd.
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3. RMAC
Abbreviated form for Royal Mint Advisory Committee. RMAC is a fully independent
committee made up of a group of experts chosen from across the country. Their main
work is to recommend themes and designs for minting coins to Britain’s finance minister.
24. EIA Notification 2020: Key facts
Upon Delhi High court interventions, The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change (MoEF&CC) has finally extended the timeline for the public to review 80-page
long draft on Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) notification 2020. The recently
released draft is created with the intention of replacing the existing EIA notification
2006. This is for the second time country will witness the change in the policy under the
Environment Protection Act 1986.
1. Background
In the year 1972 Stockholm Declaration on Environment was signed of which India was
also the one among the various signatories. Then in the year 1974 and 1981 India
enacted a law to control water and air pollution respectively. In the year 1984, the
Bhopal Gas leak disaster forced the nation to ponder upon the law again following which
the government launched the Environment Protection Act 1986. In the Environment
Protection Act 1986 itself, it was mentioned that the country will frame EIA norms which
finally came into effect in the year 1994 and later modified by a draft in 2006. The EIA
framework made a legal framework for regulating any activities which pollute the
environment.
2. Difference between the existing and the new EIA norms

Many activists claim that the recently launched policy is less stringent than the
previously launched environment policy in the year 2006. EIA 2020 draft if implemented
is going to increase the pressure of legal paperwork while making a minimalistic change
on the ground. A huge list of projects has been excluded from the view of public
consultation in the new policy, some being, gas and shale exploration, offshore and
onshore oil, irrigation projects, small and medium mineral beneficiation units,
hydroelectric projects up to 25 MW, small foundries involving furnace units, small and
medium cement plants, acids other than phosphoric or ammonia, small clinker grinding
units, Sulphuric acid, micro, MSMEs in dye and dye intermediates, synthetic rubbers,
bulk drugs, all inland waterway projects, medium-sized paint units, aerial ropeways in
ecologically sensitive areas, specified building construction and area development
projects and expansion or widening of highways between 25 km and 100 km with
defined parameters. Since these activities will be carried out without oversight. There is
apprehension that the exemption from EIA and public consultation for these activities
will seriously affect the environment.
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25. OXY2 developed by IIT-M: Highlights
A health startup at IIT Madras in joint collaboration with HELYXON has developed a
device called OXY2. This newly designed device can easily take vitals of an individual
such as heart rate, temperature, oxygen saturation and respiration rate clinically
accurate. The device is made commercially available now and has already been
deployed to monitor 2000 patients a day in hospitals.
1. Objective
The core technology of OXY2 was validated after doing a year-long multi-centric study at
various Chennai-based medical institutions for accuracy and performance with reference
to current standards. After the successful trial medical institutions found the device to be
of great help during the pandemic when the medical staff have to come in close with the
patients to take their vitals.
2. About the Device

The device which can be powered by the coin celled battery is designed in such a way
that it can be reused and recycled. It can be clipped on to a patient’s finger and the data
is sent to a mobile phone through radio waves. The captured data can be seen through a
mobile app and can be shared with the hospitals and doctors if required.
3. Its Operation
The device measures temperature at the armpit and blood oxygen level, and other
parameters at the finger itself. The device has a lifetime of over a year. Other than being
in use during the pandemic the devices can also be used by the hospitals and doctors for
patient management. The cost of the device varies between 2500 to 10,000 Rs.
depending upon the specification of the machine and functions it can perform.
26. Sashidhar Jagdishan is the new CEO of HDFC Bank
Now its officially confirmed Reserve Bank of India has given green signal to the
appointment of Sashidhar Jagdishan as the chief executive and managing director of
HDFC Bank. Sashidhar Jagdishan who has been working with the HDFC bank since 1996
as the “change agent” will succeed Aditya Puri.
1. About the Ex-CEO and MD

Aditya Puri who has been associated with the bank for the last 25 years and has
immensely contributed in building the bank from the scratch and making it the second-
largest private sector bank in terms of assets. Mr. Puri will officially retire on 20th
October this year. Earlier the bank had recommended three candidate names to Reserve
Bank of India which in order of preference are, Sashidhar Jagdishan, Kaizad Bharucha,
and Citi’s Sunil Garg. Now, finally, after RBI’s approval, the bank will inform the
exchange about the appointment of new CEO and MD Sashidhar Jagdish.
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2. Additional Relevant Information
The recommendation to RBI for the appointment of CEO in the Public Sector is sent by
the Banks Board Bureau. It was set up in the year 2016 as the part of Indradhanush plan
of Government on the recommendation of P.J. Nayak Committee. Banks Board of Bureau
is housed in RBI’s Central Office in Mumbai. It is an autonomous part of the Indian
government who is dedicated to improving the governance of Public Sector Banks by
recommending CEOs and MDs to government-owned banks and financial institutions.
The organisation also helps banks in developing strategies and capital raising plans.
27. Pak appoints three senior lawyers in Kulbhushan Jadhav’s Case
A two-member bench of Islamabad High Court comprising Chief Justice Athar Minallah
and Justice Miangul Hassan Aurangzeb appointed the three senior lawyers in the case
of 50-year-old retired Indian Navy officer Kulbhushan Jadhav.
1. Background
Kulbhushan Jadhav was sentenced to death by a Pakistani military court on the charges
of spying and terrorism in April 2017. India approached the International Court of Justice
in Hague against Pakistan for denial of consular access to Jadhav and also challenged
the death sentence. The court-appointed three senior lawyers as amici curiae. Amicus
Curiae is a lawyer appointed by a court to assist the convicted in any matter or case.
2. Kulbhushan Yadav Case so far

Kulbhushan Yadav on 3 March 2016 was arrested in the Pakistani province of Balochistan
on the ground of terrorism and espionage. However Indian foreign Ministry in a
statement said that Mr Yadav took premature retirement and was abducted from Iran.
Further, on 10 April 2017 Jadhav was sentenced to death by a military court in Pakistan.
Following this India took the case to the International Court of Justice (ICJ). On 17 July
2019, the ICJ rejected India’s appeal for Jadhav release and ordered Pakistan to suspend
the execution. The court further ordered Pakistan to grant consular access to Jadhav.
3. Consular Access
Consular access simply means notifying the embassy of those convicted about the arrest
physically or through communication following any mode.
28. Golf Resort at Thenzawl inaugurated
Implemented under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme of Ministry of Tourism The Union
Minister of State for Culture & Tourism Shri Prahlad Singh Patel virtually inaugurated the
“Thenzawl Golf Resort” Project, The virtual inauguration took place in the presence of
Tourism Minister of Mizoram Shri Robert Romawia Royte and Commissioner and
Secretary for Tourism Department of Government of Mizoram Smt. Esther LalRuatkimi in
New Delhi.
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1. About
The Golf course project sanctioned under Swadesh Darshan is built by a sanctioned
amount of Rs.92.25 Crore out of which an amount of Rs.64.48 Crore was sanctioned for
various other components.
2. Background
Since the climatic condition is more favourable in the North-Eastern part of India as
compared to most countries. Therefore, Golf tourism has a strong potential in India. The
beautiful mesmerising picturesque landscapes of the country and exceptional hospitality
services add to the enhanced experience of golf tourism in India. Currently, India has
more than 230 golf courses of which several golf courses are of international standards.
Golf events held in the country attracts various domestic and international tourists from
all over the world every year. For attracting both International and domestic tourists the
Ministry of Tourism is keen on creating a comprehensive and coordinated framework.
3. Comprehensive view
The Golf Course at Thenzawl sprawling in 105 acres with 75 acres of the play area is
designed by Graham Cooke and Associates which is one of top-ranked Canada based
Golf Course architectural firm. The play area will be equipped with 18 Hole Golf Course
with Sharing Fairway and automated sprinkler irrigation system by Rain Bird, USA. The
project is made keeping in mind the top-notch facilities of international standards. The
tourists and spectators will also witness Open Air Food Court, 30 Eco-Log Huts,
Reception area Cafeteria, and Waiting Lounge etc. All these constructions are done with
Siberian Pinewood and the area will be fully furnished with world-class furniture and
fixtures. However, the point which makes Thenzawl Golf Course different from others is
that it will provide quality golfing experience and international facilities at a fair price.
29. Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy 2020: Overview
During the global pandemic when the country is drifting towards self-reliant India
“Aatmanirbhar Bharat” The Ministry of Defence (MOD) published a draft on ‘Defence
Production & Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP) 2020’ for public feedback which the
ministry awaits till 17th August 2020.
1. About
In the DPEPP 2020, the ministry aims at achieving a manufacturing turnover of $25 bn or
₹1,75,000 crore, which includes exports of $5 bn in aerospace and defence goods and
services by the end of the year 2025. The draft aims at providing a structured and
significant push to the country’s defence production capabilities for self-reliance and
exports. Currently, in overall India’s defence procurement the share of domestic
procurement is just about 60%. The ministry aims at doubling the current domestic
procurement from ₹70,000 crore to ₹1,40,000 crore by the year 2025.
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2. How it will be done?
DPEPP 2020 lays a framework for Defence Attachés on increasing defence exports,
stating further the policy mentions that Defense officials have been mandated and are
supported to promote export of indigenously manufactured defence equipment abroad.
Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSU) which would work as export promotion
agencies will help in promoting export of defence products abroad. The DPSU for certain
selected countries would help these countries with earnings linked to success fee
however, subject to strategic considerations. The policy also lay guidelines for promoting
these domestically manufactured defence products through Government to Government
agreements and Lines of Credit/Funding.
3. Aerospace Industry
The guidelines also talk about various opportunities in the aerospace industry which
have been classified under the following segments – helicopters, aircraft Maintenance,
aircraft build work, line replaceable units, engine manufacturing and MRO work, Repair
and Overhaul (MRO), Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) and upgrades and retrofits. As
there is a long timeline involved in the whole process of defence procurement therefore,
a Project Management Unit (PMU) will be set up with representation from the Services.
The main work for PMU will be to estimate the specifications of life cycle costs and
maintenance requirements of platforms, equipment and weapon systems, development
and production lead times and also the various technologies involved,
4. Major Shift
Shifting from licensed production ministry will now own the design rights and Intellectual
Property (IP) of the systems. All this will be done through a Technology Assessment Cell
(TAC) which would be created to assess the industrial capability with the major
industries in the country for design, development and production, including re-
engineering for production of major systems such as fighter aircraft, helicopters
armoured vehicles, submarines, and radars. As announced earlier by the government,
the policy states that a negative list of weapons and platforms will be notified with year-
wise timelines for placing an embargo on the import of such items from those dates.
August 5, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
30. Pakistan’s new political map
Pakistan recently released a new political map claiming the entire territory of Jammu &
Kashmir, and part of Gujarat including the erstwhile state of Junagadh as part of its
territory.
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1. Background
In recent times in the wake of the global pandemic when the whole world is fighting
against the deadly virus in unison, our neighbours are in a race to occupy our territory.
When India is all set to celebrate, the first anniversary of its decision to revoke the
special status of Jammu and Kashmir on 5th August then our neighbour Pakistan a day
before the anniversary has made a controversial change in their political map inviting
arguments and disputes. This is the second such map revising territorial claims in the
South Asian region. Before this, our neighbour in the north “Nepal” printed a political
map showing the Kalapani region of Pithoragarh district as part of its sovereign territory.
2. The changes
During last one-year Pakistan has made numerous unsuccessfully attempt on trying to
rally international support against India on the reorganization of J&K. China which is
Pakistan’s all-weather ally too made several attempts to discuss the Kashmir issue in the
UN Security Council using his veto power. However, these attempts proved futile and
were rejected by other member nations of the UN. This newly-released grotesque map is
very different from its old version various other territory has been added idiotically. In
the early version of the map, the part of Kashmir and Ladakh border with China was not
marked and it was described as “Frontier Undecided”. However, the recently released
map clearly shows Pakistan frontier attached with India and the entire Kashmir region as
its territory. The LOC had been extended to the Karakoram Pass, clearing depicting
Siachen as part of Pakistan territory. The LoC had been marked by a red dotted line
which means it is a part of their territory. The J&K had been described as “Disputed
Territory” of which final status to be decided in line with relevant “UNSC resolutions”.
Another big change in the map shows that the international borderlines which were
previously along the western bank now lies along the eastern bank of Sir Creek. The map
also shows the Federally Administered Tribal Areas as part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
province. Pakistan has also shown the region of the erstwhile state of Junagadh as part
of its territory though, this is not for the first time in the history before this in the year
2012 in the Atlas of Islamic Republic of Pakistan they portrayed Junagadh as a separate
territory. The road previously known as Kashmir Highway has been renamed to a major
road in Islamabad as Srinagar Highway.
3. India’s Reaction
Hours after Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan in Islamabad released the new political
map of his country saying it was approved by the federal Cabinet, India showed strong
disapproval. Indian Ministry of External Affairs in a press statement while slamming
Pakistan’s “so-called new political map” stated that this is an exercise of political
absurdity, which lays untenable claims of Gujarat, Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh. This
illogical contention has neither legal validity nor international credibility.
31. Lebanon trembles with devastating blast
In the central region of Beirut, the capital of Lebanon a huge blast triggered off in a port
warehouse where highly explosive material was stored. The blast leads to the killing of
78 people and injury to nearly 4,000.
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1. Cause
The explosion trembled the whole city. The shockwaves flattened much of the port,
damaging buildings and produced a giant mushroom cloud into the sky. Within hours
after the blast, ambulances rushed to carry away the wounded and the army helicopters
flew to help contain battle fires raging at the port. However, the death tolls are expected
to rise. Ammonium nitrate an odourless crystalline substance commonly used as a
fertiliser in the field has been found to be the root cause of the Beirut explosion as
stated by the Lebanese authorities. Ammonium nitrate has found to be involved in
numerous industrial explosions over the decades.
2. World Reaction
The world poured in their condolences among all Gulf nations were the first to react.
Qatar and Kuwait promised to send the field hospital. Chief of countries like Egypt, UAE,
Jordan, Israel, Canada, Iran, Syria, Russia, France, Britain, USA expressed their hearty
condolences and extended aid to support. Unusually, a neighbouring country Israel
which it is still technically at war with Lebanon also offered humanitarian aid to support.
Antonio Guterres the U.N. chief while mentioning the horrific explosions in Beirut injured
some United Nations personnel expressed his deepest condolences.
32. Demise of Former Maharashtra Chief Minister Shivajirao Patil

Nilangekar
Maharashtra former Chief Minister and Senior Congressman Shivajirao Patil Nilangekar
passed away. The doctor announced kidney failure as the reason for his death. The 88-
year-old minister who had been suffering from several co-morbidities including diabetes
and high blood pressure, and had been tested positive for the novel coronavirus in Pune
was admitted at a private hospital. The former CM is survived by wife, three sons, a
daughter and grandchildren. His last rites are to be performed in Nilanga his birthplace
in Latur district.
Work & Contribution

Mr. Patil Nilangekar, who hailed from Nilanga city in Latur district was a powerful
cooperative leader from Marathwada region. He was highly active in the field of
education. While serving in his capacity the former minister had the briefest run as the
Chief Minister of Maharashtra, for less than a year between June 1985 and March 1986
after controversial circumstances forced him to resign. The Nilangekar family being a
dominant force in the politics of Latur and the Marathwada region Nilanga was a devoted
Congressman with virtual fiefdom. In 2008, Mr Patil Nilangekar won the Nilanga
Assembly constituency in Maharashtra Assembly elections from 1962 to 1980
consecutively. And then he controlled his constituencies as the ‘pocket borough’ again in
1990, 1999 and 2004 Assembly polls. Rupatai Patil Nilangekar his daughter-in-law, who
is with the BJP, was the MP of Latur between 2004 and 2009 while Sambhaji Patil
Nilangekar his grandson was a Minister in the former Devendra Fadnavis-led BJP
government.
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33. Swachh Bharat Kranti: Highlights
The Union Jal Shakti Minister, Shri Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, along with the Union
Textiles and Women & Child Development Minister Smt. Smriti Irani launched the book
‘Swachh Bharat Kranti’
1. About the book

Edited by Shri Parameswaran Iyer, Secretary of Department of Drinking Water and
Sanitation book “Swachh Bharat Kranti” is the Hindi translation of the book “The Swachh
Bharat Revolution”. The book is published by and as the Swachh Bharat Kranti. The book
is arranged in four key sections which are the four key pillars of SBM’s (Swachh Bharat
Mission) success: Public Financing, Political Leadership, Partnerships and People’s
Participation. Through 35 essays by a diverse range of stakeholders and contributors to
the SBM, sharing their perspective on this social revolution the book captures the
remarkable journey of the SBM. The book starts with a foreword by Prime Minister Shri
Narendra Modi and is a compilation of essays written by Amitabh Kant, Amitabh
Bachchan, Arun Jaitley, Akshay Kumar, Bill Gates, Ratan Tata, Sadhguru, Tavleen Singh,
and other eminent personalities from their respective fields.
2. Launch Overview
Following the launch, a discussion on the book and the Swachh Bharat Mission by the
two Ministers and Shri Parameswaran Iyer took place. During the discussion, the
ministers captured the remarkable journey of the SBM through 35 essays. The discussion
among the eminent personalities was watched by lakhs of field functionaries of the SBM
through webcasting. While gracing the occasion, Union Minister Shri Gajendra Singh
Shekhawat spoke about how India had become one of the leaders of sanitation in the
world and how many countries in the world are now learning from India’s experience of
how in just five years over 50 crore people started using toilets and stopped defecating
in the open. The minister expressed his joy while mentioning that, now after the launch
of the book lakhs of readers in the heartland of India can read and know about this
journey. Soon after the discussion, both the Union ministers moved to answer questions
of field functionaries, state government officials and swachhagrahis.
34. The First General Council Meeting of Khelo India: Highlights
Recently Union Sports Minister Kiran Rijiju in the first general meeting of the Khelo India
asked the states to actively organise the Khelo India Games to gather a larger pool of
talent from the grassroots level.
1. Background
Various annual competitions like the University Games and the Khelo India Youth Games
which are organised at the national level under the Khelo India Scheme, have helped
identify sporting talent from all states. However, that is not enough. While addressing
the event Rijiju praised the States that already conduct annual sporting competitions
and urged them to align with the Khelo India Scheme with centre’s full support in
conducting these events.
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2. The event
The first General Council meeting chaired by Kiran Rijiju was also attended by Sports
Secretary Ravi Mittal, Director General of the Sports Authority of India, Sandip Pradhan
and other senior officials of the sports ministry.
3. Objective
To ace at an Olympic event, it takes at least 8 years to groom an athlete. Therefore, we
need to identify talent at a very young age of 5-10 years itself and groom them and train
them to be future champions. Then only we can make our country a sporting
superpower. A five-zonal talent scouting committees have been planned for east, west,
north, south and north-east. Selected talent can then be trained at SAI centres built at
these five zones. However, to make this come true we need inputs from the state
governments in identifying talent the minister stated. For now, eight states where KISCE
will be set up has been identified and the Sports Ministry has also received proposals
from another 13 states, on which decisions are being finalised. The states have been
asked to identify their best sporting infrastructure for the Khelo India State Centre of
Excellence (KISCE) and share it with the ministry as early as possible. The Minister
assured the States that they will be provided with the fund and extended support from
the ministry in building and providing a state of the art infrastructures in training senior
athletes from all over the country.
35. GoI launches NCDC YouTube Channel “Sahakar Cooptube NCDC

India”
On August 4, 2020, the Union Agriculture Minister Shri Narendra Singh Tomar launched
YouTube channel of National Cooperative Development Corporation (NCDC) called
“Sahakar Cooptube NCDC India”.
1. Highlights
The channel will focus on encouraging youth and farmers to learn about the benefits of
cooperatives. It will aim to bring in more youths in the cooperative sector.
2. Significance
The guidance videos being posted in the channel will help strengthening major initiatives
of central government. It will help to promote 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations.
These 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations were launched by PM Modi in February
2020.
3. Background
The Government of India is focusing on forming at least one FPO at each block level. This
is for deeper percolation of the schemes such as Fasal Bima Yojana, PM Kisan Credit
Card Scheme. The channel will help central government achieve this goal.
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4. Current issue
In India around 86% of Indian farmers are small and marginal. Their average land
holdings are less than 1.1 hectares. These farmers along with landless farmers are
facing challenges in accessing quality seeds, technologies, fertilisers and pesticides. The
FPOs and other cooperatives will provide a platform for collectivisation of small, marginal
and landless farmers. They will give collective strength to deal with the above issues.
5. National Cooperative Development Corporation

The NCDC plays major role in the formation of Farmer Producer Organizations. According
to the Agriculture Ministry, NCDC gained huge success with financial assistance of Rs
1,54,000 crores to the cooperatives.
36. First Anniversary of creation of Ladakh and J&K celebrated
On August 5, 2020, the Union Territories of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir celebrated
their first anniversary of formation.
1. Background
On August 5, 2019, the Government of India revoked the special status to Jammu and
Kashmir by modifying Article 370 of the Constitution. After the abrogation of the article,
two union territories Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir were carved out under Jammu and
Kashmir Reorganisation Act 2019.
2. What is Article 370?

The Article 370 of the Indian Constitution gave special status to the state of Jammu and
Kashmir between 1954 and 2019. The article conferred the state to have a separate
constitution and autonomy over internal administration of the state.
2.1. Key Changes

 The police and public order are to be with the Centre
 The UT of J&K is to have a state legislature and Ladakh will not.
 The powers of Lieutenant Governor of the territories were widened. The CM of the UT has to
communicate all administrative decisions of legislation with the LG.
3. Terrorism since the abrogation

In a period of one year, that is, between August 5, 2019 and August 5, 2020, recruitment
of terrorists in the region has fell by 42%. It has reduced from 172 to 100. The number of
terrorists trying to infiltrate from Pakistan occupied Kashmir has decreased by 33%.
37. What is Swachh Bharat Kranti?
“Swachh Bharat Kranti” is a translated copy of the book “Swachh Bharat Revolution”.
Swachh Bharat Kranti is a Hindi version and Swachh Bharat Revolution is the English
version.
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1. About the Book
The book is about the journey of Swachh Bharat Mission. It has 35 essays contributed by
a range of stakeholders of the programme. The essays in the book have been arranged
under four pillars namely Public Financing, political leadership, Partnership and
Participation of People in the mission. The contributors of the book include Amitabh Kant,
Arun Jaitley, Sadhguru, Ratan Tata, etc.
2. Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM)

The Mission was started in 2014 to provide universal coverage on sanitation of the
country. It is being implemented by the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation. The
two main components of the mission include SBM Urban and SBM Rural. The urban
component of the mission mainly focuses on waste management techniques. On the
other hand, the rural component focuses on achieving Open Defecation Free (ODF) India.
3. Phase II of SBM
The second phase of the mission is to be implemented with a total outlay of Rs 1,40,881
crores. The second phase has been named as ODF+. The ODF+ is to focus on the
following
August 6, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
38. Jammu and Kashmir Lieutenant Governor Girish Chandra Murmu

resigned
On August 5, 2020, the day when the Union Territories (UTs) Jammu and Kashmir and
Ladakh celebrated their one year of formation, the Lieutenant Governor of J&K Girish
Chandra Murmu resigned. He sent his letter of resignation to President Ram Nath Kovind.
1. Highlights
Mr Murmu was appointed as the LG of the state of Jammu and Kashmir after its
formation under Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019. He was a 1985 batch IAS
officer from Gujarat. He was a secretary at Ministry of Finance prior to his appointment
as LG. He had also served as secretary to PM Modi when he served as CM of Gujarat.
2. Article 239
The Article 239 of Indian Constitution says that every Union Territory in India shall be
administered by the President through a Lieutenant Governor (LG) appointed by him.
Unlike Governors who are constitutional heads of the states, LG is an administrator.
3. How is a LG different from a Governor?

The powers and functions of the Governor and LG are more or less the same. However,
the powers of LG are wider than that of the Governors. This is because, a Governor acts
solely on the advice of the council of ministers in the state. And on the other hand, a LG
need not take the approval of the council of ministers on every matter.
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4. Delhi and Puducherry
The Union Territories J&K, Delhi and Puducherry are the only three UTs in the country
that have democratically elected governments just like other Indian states. The other
UTs are administered by the LG.
39. India contributes 15 million USD to India-UN Development

Partnership Fund
On August 5, 2020, India contributed 15.46 million USD to the India-UN Development
Partnership Fund.
1. Highlights
India has contributed the funds to the United Nations Office for South-south Cooperation
(UNOSSC) as a permanent representative of the UN. Of this, 9.46 million USD has been
dedicated to the Commonwealth countries and 6 million USD to the overall fund.
2. India-UN Development Partnership Fund

The fund is managed by UNOSSC. It was established in 2017. The Fund supports
developing countries in achieving their 2030 Agenda of Sustainable Development.
Currently, there are 36 projects being implemented in 37 countries with the help of the
fund.
3. First Project of the Fund

The first project under the India-UN Development Partnership Fund focussed on increase
in resilence to natural disasters in six Pacific Island nations. They are Kirbati, Cook
Islands, Marshall Islands, Nauru, Micronesia, Solomon Islands. It also included Kingdom
of Tonga.
4. UNOSSC
The UNOSSC is hosted by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It was
established in 1974 by the United Nations General Assembly. It promotes, coordinates
and supports South-South cooperation globally and also within United Nations.
5. South-South Cooperation
The South-South Cooperation is the technical cooperation among developing countries.
There are other terms of cooperation in the UN. They are as follows
5.1. North-South Cooperation

The North-South Cooperation is the social, economic and political cooperation between a
developed and a developing country. The terms north and south are being used as most
of the countries in the northern hemisphere are developed and those in the southern
hemisphere are developing.
5.2. Triangular Cooperation

The Triangular cooperation involves three actors such as one from the north and two
from the south.
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40. Japan marks 75 years of atomic bomb attacks on Hiroshima and
Nagasaki
On August 6, 2020, Japan marks the 75th anniversary of the world’s first atomic bomb
attack on the city of Hiroshima.
1. Highlights
In 1945, the United States warplane Enola Gay dropped an atom bomb named “Little
Boy” in the city of Hiroshima killing 140,000 people. Three days later, on August 9, the
United States dropped another atom bomb “Fat Man” in Nagasaki that killed more than
40,000 people.
2. Why the atom bomb?

The relations between Japan and the USA worsened after the end of World War II in
1945. This was mainly because, the Japanese forces decided to capture oil rich areas of
the East Indies. Thus, US President Harry Truman authorised to drop the bomb to make
Japan surrender in the war, which it did.
3. Why Hiroshima and Nagasaki?

The USA chose the cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki targeting military production of the
country. The main aim was to destroy ability of Japan to fight wars. Hiroshima was one of
the army headquarters of Japan. Also, it was the largest military supply depot for troops
and supplies.
4. Quebec Agreement
The Agreement was signed in 1943 by the US and UK to pool their resources to develop
nuclear weapons. The countries under the agreement also agreed that neither of the
countries would use the nuclear weapons against each other.
5. First Nuclear Weapon Testing

Before dropping the bomb in the cities of Japan, the US did test its nuclear weapons. The
nuclear weapons were tested at the Trinity site on July 16, 1945. The testing was a part
of the Manhattan Project
6. Manhattan Project
The project was a Research and Development programme conducted by USA, UK and
Canada. It was led by USA. The project aimed to develop first nuclear weapons to be
used in world war II.
41. First Mobile RT-PCR lab of India developed by IISc launched in

Karnataka
On August 5, 2020, the State Government of Karnataka launched India’s first mobile RT-
PCR lab in Bengaluru. The lab was developed by Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru.
The lab has been named Mobile Infection Testing and Reporting (MITR) lab. It is capable
of conducting 9000 tests per month.
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1. About the lab
Apart from testing COVID-19, the lab can also be utilised to test HCV, H1N1, TB, HIV,
HPV, etc. The main advantage of the lab is that it can be used for molecular diagnostic
testing in COVID-19 hotspots quickly.
2. RT-PCR
The RT-PCR is the Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction. The test mainly
measures the amount of a specific RNA. During the test, RNA is converted into
complementary DNA using the enzyme reverse transcriptase.
3. COVID-19 testing
The COVID-19 testing assesses the current or past presence of SARS-COV-2 virus. There
are two branches in the testing namely detecting the presence of virus or antibodies.
The test that involves detecting the virus is used to diagnose individual cases. This helps
public health authorities to trace and contain the outbreak. On the other hand, the
antibody testing shows if a person has had the disease earlier. This is useful in asses
disease prevalence and estimate infection fatality rate.
4. Other COVID-19 testing

Apart from RT-PCR, there are several other COVID-19 testing methodologies used. They
are as follows
5. Isothermal Amplification Assays

It is an Isothermal nucleic acid amplification testing methodology that is used to amplify
genome of the virus. It is faster than RT-PCR as it does not involve repeated cooling and
heating cycles.
6. Antigen Testing
The antigen testing of COVID-19 looks for proteins in the viral surfaces. In case of COVID-
19, the antigen testing looks for the surface spikes.
7. Serology
These are blood tests that are used to identify antibodies such as IgM and IgG. These
antibodies are generated as an immune response by the human body against COVID-19.
42. Ammonium Nitrate: The Beirut Explosion
A catastrophic blast occurred recently at the Lebanon capital, Beirut. The blast was
driven by tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate that killed more than 135 people. Also, it injured
more than 1000s.
1. Ammonium Nitrate
Ammonium Nitrate is a white, crystalline chemical that is soluble in water. It is the main
ingredient used to manufacture commercial explosives
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2. India
In India, the use of Ammonium Nitrate is defined by the Ammonium Nitrate Rules, 2012
under the Explosives Act, 1884. According to the rules, it is a compound that has more
than 45% of ammonium nitrate by weight. This includes suspensions, emulsions, gels or
melts excluding fertilizers, slurry explosives and non-explosive emulsion matrix.
3. United Nations Classification of Dangerous Goods

Under the UN classification of dangerous goods, ammonium nitrate is classified as an
oxidiser. However, it can be used as an explosive when mixed with other contaminants.
4. As an Explosive
The Improvised Explosive Devices used by terrorists in the world contain Ammonium
Nitrate Fuel Oil (ANFO). Ammonium Nitrate when used as with RDX or TNT can create
catastrophic effects. In majority of terror attacks in India in places such as Varanasi,
Pulwama, Pune, Malegaon, Delhi, Mumbai and Hyderabad, ammonium nitrate is used
with the initiator RDX.
5. Ammonium Nitrate: Major Fire Hazard

The explosion of ammonium nitrate can happen in two ways. One, when the stored
chemical comes in contact and the other is due to fire that starts due to extensive
oxidation process. The Beirut explosion is due to oxidation at large scale.
6. Previous Incidents
In 1921, around 4,500 tonnes of Ammonium Nitrate exploded in Oppau, Germany that
killed 500 people. In 1947, around 2,000 tonnes of ammonium nitrate detonated at
Galveston Bay, Texas killing 581 people. In 2015, an explosion due to Ammonium nitrate
killed 173 people in Tianjin port, China.
43. RBI Monetary Policy: Bank keeps repo rate unchanged
On August 6, 2020, the six-member Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of Reserve Bank
of India held its meeting in New Delhi. The committee was headed by RBI Governor
Shaktikanta Das.
1. Highlights
During the meet, the following key decisions were taken
2. Monetary Policy Committee

The Monetary Policy Committee is constituted by the Government of India. It is tasked
with framing policy by fixing bank rate, repo rate, reverse repo rate, cash reserve ratio.
The committee is instituted by GoI under Section 45ZB of RBI act, 1934.
3. Composition
There are six members in the committee. Of these, three are nominated by the
Governor. The Governor is the chairman of the committee. The deputy Governor is also a
member.
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4. Members
The members of the committee are appointed for a period of four years. They are not
eligible for reappointment. They are selected by a Search-cum-Selection committee.
44. Facts Box: YSR Cheyutha Scheme
The YSR Cheyutha Scheme is to be launched in Andhra Pradesh on August 12, 2020. It
aims to empower women from minority castes.
1. Highlights
The scheme will provide financial benefit of Rs 75,000 to those women who come under
the age of 45 to 60 years. It aims at pension beneficiaries. The amount of Rs 75,000 is to
be distributed in four equal installments of Rs 18,750 each per year. The amounts are to
be transferred to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.
2. YSR Asara Scheme

The scheme is to benefit 90 lakh women of self help group. Under the scheme, Rs 6,700
crores is to be distributed in one year.
3. Background
The State Government of Andhra Pradesh recently decided to extend financial assistance
of YSR Cheyutha to those availing social security pensions under the YSR Pension
Kanuka. This will benefit more than 8.21 lakh women from SC, ST, BC and minority
communities.
45. Facts Box: First Snow Leopard Conservation Centre of India
The Uttarakhand State Government is to develop India’s first Snow Leopard

Conservation centre of India. The centre is to be developed by the Uttarakhand forest
department and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
1. Highlights
The main aim of the centre is to conserve and restore Himalayan ecosystems. It also
aims to conserve elusive snow leopards and other endangered Himalayan species.
2. Concerns
A number of snow leopards have been spotted in the districts of Pithoragarh and
Uttarkashi. However, the actual figures are unknown. So far, the state government has
concluded that there are 86 snow leopards in the state.
3. Benefits
The step is to promote winter tourism in the state. The state is also in the process of
developing six city forests to expand the green area in the cities. This is to be achieved
in city forests in Kumaon region, four in hilly districts and two in plains.
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4. Snow Leopard in India
The first National Protocol on Snow Leopard Population Assessment was launched on
International Snow Leopard Day (October 23, 2019). The survey was conducted in the
states/UTs of Ladakh, Himachal Pradesh, Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and
Arunachal Pradesh. The launch also marked the inaugural of 4th Steering Committee
meeting of GSLEP Programme
5. GSLEP Programme
GSLEP Programme is Global Snow Leopard and Ecosystem Protection Programme. It is
an inter-governmental alliance of all 12 snow leopard range countries. This includes
China, Bhutan, Nepal, Mongolia, India, Pakistan, Russia, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan,
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan and Afghanistan.
6. About Snow Leopard

The Snow Leopard region in India contributes to 5% of the global snow leopard region.
They are classified as Vulnerable in IUCN list and has been included in Schedule I of the
Indian Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
7. Conservation Efforts in India

India had launched Project Snow Leopard to promote inclusive approach that involves
local communities.
46. RBI launches “Innovation Hub” for Financial Inclusion
On August 6, 2020, the Reserve Bank of India launched “Innovation Hub” for ideation
and incubation of new capabilities that can be leveraged to deepen financial inclusion.
1. About Innovation Hub

The hub is being launched to promote the start ups in the country. It will help in ideation
and incubation of new capabilities. This will in turn help to deepen financial inclusion in
the country and promote efficient banking services.
2. Regulatory Sandbox
A Regulatory Sandbox refers to live testing of new products and services in a controlled
regulatory environment where the regulators may permit regulatory relaxations to limit
purpose of testing. This framework will act as a boost for the financial technology
startups that are looking to innovate. The main aim of the sandbox is to foster
responsible innovation in financial services, bring benefits to consumer and promote
efficiency.
3. Norms
RBI will launch Sandbox for the entities that meet the criteria of minimum net worth of
Rs 25 lakh. The entity should either be a company registered in the country or banks
licensed to operate in India.
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4. Background
According to NITI Aayog, 1 trillion USD worth Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) will be
digitally disbursed by 2029. Also, India is one of the fastest growing fintech markets in
the world.
47. August 7: National Handloom Day
Every year, the Government of India celebrates National Handloom Day on August 7. The
day is celebrated to honour the handloom weavers in the country. Also, the day
highlights handloom industry in India.
1. Highlights
August 7 was first declared as National Handloom Day in 2015. The main objective is to
create awareness about importance of handloom industry. The sixth National Handloom
Day is being celebrated in 2020 under the coordination of Ministry of Textiles.
2. Why August 7?
August 7 was chosen as National Handloom Day to commemorate Swadeshi movement
that was launched in 1905 on the very same day. The movement was launched in
Calcutta Town Hall to protest against partition of Bengal by the British Government.
3. Schemes related to Handloom Sector

The following are the schemes that were launched by GoI to boost handloom sector
4. National Handloom Development Programme

The programme was launched for the time period of April 2017 and March 2020 under
the Ministry of Textiles. The following are the key features of the scheme
5. Comprehensive Handloom cluster Development Scheme

The scheme was launched between April 2017 and March 2020 to develop Mega
Handloom Clusters in the country. The main aim of the scheme is to develop Mega
Handloom Clusters that specialize in specific products.
6. Other Schemes
The other Schemes implemented by GoI for the welfare of the handloom sector are as
follows
7. Background
The handloom sector holds a unique place in the Indian Economy. More than 43 lakh
weavers mostly from backward and minority community are employed in the handloom
sector directly or indirectly. The Handloom sector accounts to 15% of textile production
in the country.
48. GoI extends Line of Credit worth 18 million USD to Maldives
The Government of India has extended Line of Credit of worth 18 million USD to Maldives
to expand fishing facilities at Maldives Industrial Fisheries Company (MIFCO).
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1. Highlights
The funds granted to Maldives are to be used for the following
2. India-Maldives
Maldives is important to India for its strategic location. In Indian Ocean, Maldives
archipelago comprises of 1,200 coral islands. They lie next to the shipping lanes that
ensure uninterrupted energy supplies to India, China and Japan.
3. Bilateral Assistance
India has offered assistance to Maldives whenever required. India was the first to provide
with relief when Maldives was badly hit by Tsunami. Also, GoI has launched several
operations as in need to help save Maldives.
3.1. Operation Cactus

India launched Operation Cactus in 1984 and saved Maldives from a coup.
3.2. Operation Neer

This operation was launched by the Indian Government to help save Maldives from major
fire that broke out in a Male Water and Sewerage company.
August 8, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
49. Facts Box: Delhi electric Vehicle Policy
On August 7, 2020, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal launched “Delhi Electric Vehicle
Policy”. Under the new policy, the State Government of Delhi will waive registration fee
and road tax. Also, it will provide an incentive of up to Rs 1.5 lakhs for new cars in the
NCR region.
1. Highlights
The policy aims to boost economy, create jobs and reduce pollution levels. Also, it aims
to constitute 25% electric vehicles by 2024. Currently, constitution of electric vehicles in
capital is 0.29%. The main highlights of the policy are as follows
2. Key features of the Policy

The policy includes the following key features
3. Background
In the last five years, air pollution in the National Capital Region has reduced by 25%.
The Government plans to reduce it further with the new policy.
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50. Gujarat Industrial Policy 2020
On August 7, 2020, the Gujarat State Government launched the “Industrial Policy 2020”.
The policy aims to provide Rs 40,000 subsidies to the industries in the state in the next
five years.
1. Highlights
The policy will help to lease lands to industrialists and also provide incentives to
industrial parks. Under the policy, the Gujarat State Government will appoint dedicated
“relationship managers” to host Vibrant Gujarat Summit in January 2021.
2. Success of previous Industrial Policy

Gujarat stands first in terms of number of Industrial Entrepreneurship Memorandum
(IEM). This is 51% of total IEMs filed in the country. The subsidies being allocated to the
current policy is three times as that of the previous policy.
3. Focus on China
The policy will help industries willing to relocate from China through “Relocation
Incentives”. The Gujarat State Government has held joint meetings with countries such
as Japan, Germany, USA and UK in this regard.
4. Key Features of Industrial Policy, 2020

 The new policy provides an average outlay of Rs 8,000 crores under which incentives are to
be provided to the industries in the state.
 The policy delinks incentives from SGST. Gujarat is the first state to do so under the new
policy.
 The policy provides 12% Fixed Capital Investment (FCI). The State Government will provide
65% of cost of acquiring foreign patented technologies by MSMEs. This will be up to Rs 50
lakhs.
 In order to encourage MSMEs to use rooftop solar power, the state government will pay 50
paise to every solar unit of solar power bought from MSMEs. Thus, the new purchase price
stands at Rs 2.25 per unit.
 The policy has increased seed support from Rs 20 lakhs to Rs 30 lakhs.
 It provides incentives to private developers to set up private industrial parks in the state. The
incentives will be 25% of Fixed Capital Investment. The upper limit for this has been set to Rs
30 crores.
51. United Nations releases 6 million USD in response to Beirut

Explosion
The United Nations released 6 million USD in response to the explosion at Beirut port.
With this, the total UN funding towards relief operation of the explosion has come to 15
million USD.
1. Highlights
The 6 million USD was released from the Central Emergency Relief Fund. Previously, 9
million USD was released from UN Lebanon Humanitarian Fund to address primary
health needs and also to provide food assistance.
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2. Why is Lebanon in deep crisis?
Lebanon is currently the third most indebted country in the world next to Japan and
Greece. The interest payments in the country consume almost half of the government
revenues. Public sector wage increase in 2017 and increase in interest rates led to
increased budget deficit.
3. Lebanon War
The 2006 Lebanon War also called the 2006 Israel-Hezbollah War was military conflict in
Northern Israel, Lebanon and Golan Heights. The principal parties of the war were Israel
Defence Forces and Hezbollah paramilitary forces.
4. Why is Lebanon highly vulnerable?

There are 18 different religious communities in Lebanon. This includes four Muslim, 12
Christian, Judaism and the Druze Sect. The three main political offices in the country
namely President, Prime Minister and the Speaker of the Parliament are divided based
on religion. They are Maronite Christian, Sunni Muslim and Shia Muslim. Also, there are
128 Parliament seats in the country that are divided between Muslims and Christians
equally.
52. Mauritius declares emergency over oil spill
On August 8, 2020, the island of Mauritius declared environmental emergency due to oil
spill caused by Japanese owned ship that was stranded off the coast days ago. The MV
Wakashio of Japanese companies Nagashiki Shipping Ltd and Okiyo Maritime Corporation
was on its way from Brazil to Singapore carrying 4,000 tonnes of fuel. The ship ran
aground on July 25, 2020.
1. Highlights
The cracks that appeared on the ship hull caused the oil spill and has put around 1 to 3
million residents in the island nation to danger. The Mauritius Government has appealed
to the French Government for help.
2. Why France for help?

The French Island of Reunion is the closest to Mauritius. The Island of Reunion is a major
military base of France in the Indian Ocean. India conducted joint patrols with the French
Navy, CORPAT (Coordinated Patrols) for the first time from the Reunion Island in March
2020.
3. India-Mauritius
Mauritius is a part of security grid of India including Coastal Surveillance Radar (CSR).
The Head of Mauritian National Security Advisor and Mauritius Navy are Indian Officers.
India has several Free Trade Agreements with Mauritius. It includes enhanced EEZ
surveillance and anti-piracy operations to prevent intrusions by potential economic
offenders including illegal poaching, fishing, human trafficking and drugs. Mauritius is
one of the top sources of Foreign Direct Investment for India. India receives 15-16 billion
USD of FDI from Mauritius.
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4. India in the Indian Ocean
To counter Chinese strategy of “String of Pearls” in the Indian Ocean, India is exerting
itself in the same region through agreements with France, US and Australia to take
advantage of their bases in Reunion and Cocos Islands (Australia).
5. Agaelga Island of Mauritius

The Agalega Islands of Mauritius has been leased to the Indian military for development
of strategic assets. The island is located to the north of Mauritius island.
53. PM Modi to launch financing facility under Agriculture Infrastructure

Fund
On August 9, 2020, PM Modi is to launch financing facility of Rs 1 lakh crore under

Agriculture Infrastructure Fund via video conferencing. Along with the facility the Prime
Minister will also release sixth installment of funds of Rs 17,000 crores. This is to benefit
more than 8.5 crore farmers under PM-KISAN scheme.
1. Highlights
The funding facility is to catalyse creation of post-harvest management community and
infrastructure farming assets such as collection centres, cold storage, processing units,
etc. The assets will enable farmers to get greater value for their produce. The farmers
will be able to reduce wastage, store and sell at higher prices and also increase
processing and value addition.
2. PM Kisan Samman Nidhi

The sixth instalment of Rs 2,000 under PM Kisan Samman Nidhi is to be sent to more
than 10 crore beneficiaries. Under the scheme, the GoI sends Rs 6,000 annually to the
registered farmers.
3. Agriculture Infrastructure Funds

The Union Cabinet had approved Agriculture Infrastructure Fund in July 2020. It provides
medium-long term debt financing facility for investment. The loans under the funds are
to be provided to Marketing Cooperative Societies, Primary Agricultural Credit Societies,
Farmer Producer Organizations, Joint Liability Groups, Self Help Groups, Multipurpose
Cooperative Societies.
54. G C Murmu takes oath as Comptroller Auditor General
On August 8, 2020, the former Lieutenant Governor (LG) of Jammu and Kashmir Girish
Chandra Murmu took oath as Comptroller and Auditor General of India. He is the first
tribal to take oath as CAG of India. The oath was administered by the President Ram
Nath Kovind.
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1. Highlights
G C Murmu was a 1985 batch IAS officer. He recently resigned his LG post of Jammu and
Kashmir. After his resignation former Union Minister Manoj Sinha was sworn in as the
new LG of J&K.
2. Independence of CAG
There are several provisions in the Constitution to safeguard the independence of CAG.
He is appointed by the President and is provided with a tenure of six years or retirement
age of 65 years, which ever is earlier. He can be removed from office only by the
President in accordance with the procedure mentioned in the Constitution in the same
manner as that of removal of Supreme Court Judge.
3. Functions of CAG
The CAG audits accounts that are related to the expenditure from the Consolidated Fund
of India, and the consolidated fund of every state and Union Territories that have
Legislative Assembly. He also audits Contingency Fund and also Public Account of each
state.
4. Constitutional Provisions
 Article 148: Deals with CAG appointment, oath and service conditions
 Article 149: deals with duties and powers of CAG
 Article 150: The accounts of the Centre and States shall be kept in such form as the President
advice the CAG.
 Article 151: The reports prepared by CAG are to be submitted to President
55. Facts Box: Consumer Confidence Survey
The Reserve Bank of India recently released its report of Consumer Confidence Survey.
According to the survey, consumer confidence has dropped to a record low.
1. Highlights
The current index dropped to 53.8 in July, 2020 from 63.7 in May. The survey was
conducted through telephonic interviews in thirteen major cities.
2. Key findings of the survey

 The consumers were pessimistic about prevailing economic situation, own income and
employment scenario.
 The inflation expectation of households has increased by 60 basis points in July 2020 as
compared to May 2020.
 The median inflation expectation rose to 9.9%.
 The Business Assessment Index fell sharply to all-time low of 55.3 in the first quarter from
102.2 in the previous quarter.
 The Business Expectations Index contracted to 99.5
 The Discretionary spending has reduced in the country
 The employment scenario has degraded along with income
 The consumers are becoming optimistic towards 2021
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3. Consumer Confidence Survey
The Consumer Confidence Survey is conducted by the Reserve Bank of India to find out
how optimistic the consumers are in regard to their financial situation. The main
parameters of the survey are employment, economic situation, employment, price level,
spending and income. It is conducted every two months.
4. Indices in the survey

There are two main indices in the Consumer Confidence Survey. They are Current
Situation Index and Future Expectations Index. The Current Situation Index measures the
change in consumer perception over an economic issue. The Future Expectations Index
measures what consumer think about the main parameters.
5. Inflation
The Household Inflation Expectation Survey says that the inflation is to rise further in the
future. And thus, the central bank will face difficulties to cut interest rates going forward.
This survey is being conducted by RBI on bi-monthly basis since 2016.
6. Forecast
The rural economy may boom in the future because of good harvest season. If the Kharif
harvest is good, the prices may come down. Also, as more members migrated back to
their villages, the per capita income will decline.
56. Kamath Panel constituted by RBI to restructure loans
The Reserve Bank of India has constituted a panel under former ICICI bank CEO K V
Kamath. The panel will make recommendations on financial parameters that are to be
considered to structure loans that are impacted by COVID-19.
1. About the committee

The Committee will recommend financial parameters that are required to be factored in
the resolution plans. Basically, the committee is to suggest parameters that will help in
resolution of COVID-19 related stressed assets. The five-member committee will make
recommendations on required financial parameters. It will recommend sector-specific
benchmark ranges for such parameters in each resolution plan for borrowers with an
aggregate exposure of Rs 1,500 crores or above. Also, the panel will focus on three most
adversely affected sectors due to the pandemic namely Tourism and Hospitality,
aviation, construction and real estate.
2. Prudential Framework
The Prudential Framework for Resolution of Stressed Assets, 2019 provides principle-
based resolution framework to address borrower defaults under normal scenario. Default
means non payment of debt when the part or whole installment of the debt has become
due and payable and the debtor has not yet paid.
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3. Benefits and concerns of Restructuring
The restructuring of loans is expected to relieve the companies serving loan obligations
on time. However, the companies that were already in default for more than 30 days
cannot avail the facility.
4. Previous Loan Restructuring Schemes of RBI

 Corporate Debt Restructuring Scheme: It was discontinued since 2015 as the corporate
misused debts recast plans in connivance with some banks.
 Strategic Debt Restructuring Scheme: Under the scheme, the banks were given the
opportunity of converting loan amount into 51% of equity that was sold to the highest bidder.
However, the scheme failed to help the banks due to viability issues. Only two sales were
possible under the scheme
 S4A Scheme: S4A scheme is Sustainable Structuring of Stressed Assets scheme.
 Asset Reconstruction Scheme
 Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code
57. PM Modi to inaugurate Submarine Optical Fibre Cable between

Chennai and Port Blair
On August 10, 2020, PM Modi is to inaugurate a 2,300 km submarine Optical Fibre Cable
that will connect Chennai and Port Blair.
1. Highlights
The submarine cable will also connect major islands in Andaman such as Havelock, Car
Nicobar, Great Nicobar, Kamorta, Rangat, Little Andaman.
2. About the connectivity

The connectivity will provide faster and reliable mobile and telecom services to
Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The foundation stone for the project was laid by the Prime
Minister in 2018. The submarine OFC is to deliver bandwidth of 2×200 Giga bits per
second between Chennai and Port Blair. Also, it will deliver 2 x100 Giga bits per second
bandwidth between Port Blair and other islands.
3. About Submarine OFC

The Submarine cables are laid on the sea bed between land-based stations. They carry
telecommunication signals across the stretches of sea and ocean.
4. Universal Service Obligation Funds

The funds ensure there is universal non-discriminatory access to quality ICT services in
rural and remote areas at affordable prices. It was created in 2002 by the Department of
Telecommunications in 2002. It is non-lapsable fund, meaning, the unspent amount of
the financial year is accrued for the next year spending. The fund has statutory support
under India Telegraph (Amendment) Act, 2003. The credits to the funds require
parliamentary approval.
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August 9, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
58. IBBI amends Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India Regulations,

2017
The Insolvency and Bankruptcy board of India recently amended the Insolvency and
Bankruptcy Board of India Regulations. This is the second amendment. The amendment
has made major changes to the voluntary liquidation process.
1. About the Amendment

The amendment allows the corporate persons to replace the liquidator with another
liquidator or insolvency professional to initiate voluntary liquidation process.
2. Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India

The IBBI oversees insolvency proceedings, Insolvency Professionals and Insolvency
Professional Agencies. It was established in 2016 giving statutory powers under
Insolvency and Bankruptcy code. The boards aim at simplifying the process of insolvency
and bankruptcy proceedings.
3. Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code

The code simplified Insolvency and Bankruptcy proceedings in India. The code helps to
provide necessary relief to the creditors and increase credit supply in the economy.
59. August 9: World Tribal Day
Every year United Nations and other world organizations celebrate World Tribal Day or
International Day of the World Indigenous People. The day promotes and protects rights
of world indigenous population. The day marks first meet of the United Nations Working
Group on Indigenous Populations in Geneva, 1982.
1. Highlights
The first World Tribal Day was celebrated in 1994. In India there are several indigenous
tribes. Some have even sprouted out to be rebels demanding own land.
2. Major Tribes in India

The Constitution of India recognizes tribal communities in the country under Schedule 5.
They are called the Scheduled Tribes. According to Census 2011, the total Scheduled
Tribes population in India is 10.43 crores. It accounts to 8.6% of total population in the
country.
3. Santhal Rebellion
The Santhal Rebellion also known as Santhal Hool are the native rebellion in the eastern
India. The rebellion was led by four Murmu brothers namely Kanhu, Sidhu, Bhairav and
Chand. The uprising aimed to end British revenue system and Zamindari system in the
country
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4. Bodo Movement
The Bodo Movement demands for independent state of Bodoland in the north eastern
region. Bodo Accord was signed in 1993. After the Bodo Accord, Bodoland Autonomous
Council was created.
5. Other Tribal movements in India

The other tribal movements in India are as follows
60. 78th anniversary of Quit India Movement observed
On August 8, 2020, India commemorated the 78th anniversary of Quit India movement.
On August 8, 1942, Mahatma Gandhi launched Quit India Movement at the session of All
India Congress Committee in Mumbai.
1. What is Quit India Movement?

The Quit India Movement was launched after Cripps mission failed. Gandhiji made a Do
or Die call through the movement. India too was facing havoc due to World War. The
movement was crushed as it didn’t get support from outside. The British refused to grant
immediate independence saying it could happen only after the war ended.
2. About Quit India Movement

The Movement was also called the India August Movement or August Kranti. The
movement created slogans such as “Bharat Chodo”, “Quit India”, “Do or Die”. The Quit
India Resolution was passed in the Congress meet held in Bombay on 8th August 1942.
The resolution had the following mandatories
3. Causes
The following are the main causes of the launch of Quit India Movement
4. Consequences
The British Government arrested all major Congress leaders such as Nehru, Gandhi,
Patel. This left the movement in hands of young leaders such as Ram Manohar Lohia and
Jayaprakash Narayan. More than 1 lakh people were arrested. The Indian National
Congress was banned.
61. Facts Box: Envistats India 2020 report
The National Statistical Office recently released the Envistats India 2020 report. The
report says that the number of heat wave days in 2019 increased over 80%. The report
was prepared by the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation. The National
Statistical Office (NSO) operates under this ministry.
1. Key Findings of the report

 The average number of heat wave days increased 82.6%. It was 157 in 2019.
 The highest number of heat wave days was recorded in Rajasthan followed by Uttar Pradesh
and Uttarakhand.
 The number of average cold wave days had also increased. It was 45 in 2018 and 29 in 2017.
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 The deaths due to acute respiratory infection in 2018 were 3,740. This was the highest in six
years. The highest number of deaths due to respiratory infection were reported in West
Bengal.
 The Particulate Matter size was the highest in Delhi among the metropolitan cities.
 The tube well and hand pump were the primary source of drinking water in rural India with a
share of 53.8%. On the other hand, piped water, public tap, stand pipe were the primary
source in urban areas with a share of 65%
 Among Urban Areas, Daman and Diu had the highest share of households in choosing bottled
water as drinking water source.
 Delhi had the highest number of registered motor vehicles in the country followed by
Bengaluru.
 Andhra Pradesh had the highest number of slum population followed by Chhattisgarh and
Madhya Pradesh
2. Deaths due to Heat Waves

The deaths due to heat wave in 2019 saw a sharp jump from 26 in 2018 to 373 in 2019.
However, it was slightly lower than 375 in 2017. In 2015, the number of deaths due to
heat waves were 2081, 510 in 2016.
3. Current Scenario
India needs to redouble its national sustainability efforts. The country needs to focus
largely on biodiversity, climate change and air and water quality. India ranked 168 in the
Environment Performance Index, 2020. It measured the environment performance of
180 countries.
62. India bans 101 Defence items
On August 9, 2020, Defence Minister Raj Nath Singh announced that India has put ban
on 101 items to boost indigenous production. The list of 101 items was prepared by the
Defence Ministry. This is being done to make India self-reliant under Atma Nirbhar
Bharat Abhiyan.
1. Highlights
The decision has been made to provide opportunity to the defence industries of the
country to manufacture items in the embargoed list. The industries can adopt their own
design or adopt technologies developed by DRDO.
2. Procurement
The Defence Ministry for the year 2020-21 has bifurcated the capital procurement as
domestic and foreign capital procurement. A separate budget of Rs 52,000 crores has
been create for domestic procurement.
3. Defence Procurement
The Defence Procurement Procedure, 2020 that was unveiled in March 2020 aims to
increase indigenous manufacturing of defence equipment. It is to support “Make in
India” initiative. A new category of Buy (Global-Manufacture in India) has been
introduced with minimum 50% indigenous content.
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63. Sri Lanka: Mahinda Rajapaksa takes oath as Prime Minister
On August 9, 2020, former president of Sri Lanka Shri Mahinda Rajapaksa was sworn in
as the new prime minister.
1. Mahinda Rajapaksa
Rajapaksa has completed 50 years of politics in July 2020. He was elected as the
Member of Parliament at the age of 24. Since then, he has been elected as President of
Sri Lanka twice and appointed as Prime Minister thrice.
2. India-Sri Lanka
The relationship between India and Sri Lanka is more than 2,500 years old. India has
given significant importance to the island nation under its “Neighbourhood First Policy”.
3. Commercial
The India-Sri Lanka Commercial Free Trade Agreement was signed in 2000. The exports
from India to Sri Lanka in 2016 were 3.83 billion USD and the exports from Sri Lanka to
India in the same year were 551 million USD. Sri Lanka is one of the largest trading
partners in SAARC.
4. Irritants
The following are the major irritants between the countries
64. Indian Railways to transport dyes to Bangladesh from Gujarat after

Chillies from AP
The Indian Railways is to operate first parcel special train to Bangladesh under
Ahmedabad division. The train is to traverse 2,110 km to reach Benapole in Bangladesh.
The Western Railways sent goods train earlier with loaded wagons of onion to
Bangladesh.
1. Highlights
The Western Railway Zone has achieved record by sending a parcel train from Gujarat to
Bangladesh. The train is to carry denim cloth, dyes and colours. This is to generate a
revenue of Rs 31 lakhs.
2. Irritants between India and Bangladesh
2.1. National Register of Citizens

The National Register of Citizens (NRC) left out 1.9 million Assamese from the list of
groups labelled as “Illegal Immigrants”. However, according to Bangladesh Government
no migrants travelled to Assam illegally during 1971 war of independence.
2.2. Rohingyas
Bangladesh is facing challenges in providing shelter to over a million of Rohingya
refugees fleeing persecution from their own country, Myanmar. India has refused to
share the burden.
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2.3. Teesta River sharing
The West Bengal State Government refused to endorse water sharing terms agreed in
2015. This has created the current impasse. The lack of water to 100,000 hectares of
land in Bangladesh because of this has led to contamination of soil and has increased
cost of pesticides.
3. Bilateral Trade
The bilateral trade between India and Bangladesh was over 9 billion USD in 2017-18. The
Bangladeshi exports increased by 91% and reached 1.25 billion USD in 2018-19. Also, in
2018, Bangladesh imported 660 MW of power. A 1,600 MW of power station is to be
developed to boost power trade between the countries.
August 10, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
65. Bangladesh constructs war memorial for Indian Soldiers killed in

1971
The Bangladesh Government is to construct war memorial for Indian soldiers killed in
1971 war. The memorial is to be constructed in Ashuganj, Brahmanbaria bordering
Tripura. This is mainly due to its significance in the Liberation War of 1971.
1. Highlights
Bangladesh has a war memorial on the outskirts of Dhaka for all martyrs. However, the
proposed memorial is for the Indian soldiers alone. Bangladesh had earlier felicitated
Indian soldiers posthumously and had also honoured the then Prime Minister Indira
Gandhi for their role in the Liberation war.
2. Bangladesh Liberation War

The Bangladesh Liberation war was an armed conflict that resulted in the independence
of Bangladesh from Pakistan. The Bangladesh War began after West Pakistan launched
Operation Searchlight against the people of East Pakistan in 1971.
3. Operation Searchlight
The Operation Searchlight was a planned military operation carried out by Pakistan Army
in East Pakistan. The operation was launched to control the Bengali independence
movement. The Operation also began the 1971 Bangladesh Genocide.
4. 1971 Bangladesh Genocide

The Genocide in Bangladesh began with Operation Searchlight. The Genocide killed
between 300,00 and 3 million people and raped 200,000 to 400,000 women. It was
carried out by the Pakistani military and the Islamist militia from Jamaat-e-Islami.
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5. Awami League
In 1970 General Elections, the Awami League party gained 167 out of 169 seats in the
East Pakistan Legislative Assembly. West Pakistan launched military operations fearing
that the success of the party would allow Bengalis to draft constitution based on
liberalism.
6. India in the war

India entered the war after Pakistan launched “Operation Chengiz Khan” striking 11
Indian airfields. The Operation also included artillery strikes on Indian positions in
Kashmir. The airfields include Agra, Ambala, Amritsar, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bhuj,
Pathankot, Srinagar, Awantipur, Uttarlai, etc. The war lasted between India and Pakistan
for 13 days.
66. Facts Box: Kozhikode Flight Accident and Tabletop Airport
An Air India Express Flight on special “Vande Bharat” Mission overshot the runway at
Kozhikode and fell into a valley. The flight carried passengers from Dubai to Kozhikode.
Similar accidents have occurred in India earlier as well. In 2010, similar incident occurred
in Mangalore airport where more than 150 people lost their lives.
1. Tabletop Airports
The Tabletop Airport is an airport that is built on top of hilly surfaces or plateau. The
runways in these airports have one or both ends overlooking a drop. The tabletop
airports in India inlucde Shimla and Kullu (Himachal Pradesh), Lengpui (Mizoram),
Pakyong (Sikkim), Kozhikode and Kannur (Kerala) and Mangaluru (Karnataka).
2. What is the issue?

The Tabletop airports require precision approach with little to no room errors. These
airports are not suited for landing wide bodied aircrafts as they require longer distances
to slow down. For instance, the DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation) had banned
wide-bodies aircrafts from landing at Kozhikode airport.
3. Steps to improve safety

The following steps are essential to improve safety of tabletop airports
4. Runway End Safety Area

RESA is an area at the end of the runway intended to reduce the risk of damage to an
aircraft
67. KVIC: First Silk Training cum Production Centre in Arunachal Pradesh
The Khadi and Village Industries Commission is to set up the first of its kind training cum
production centre of silk in the state of Arunachal Pradesh. The centre is to be launched
in the first week of September, 2020.
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1. Highlights
The KVIC will provide machinery such as handlooms, warping drums and silk reeling
machines. The centre is to provide training to 25 local artisans and will boost weaving
activities in the region.
2. Silk Production in India

India is the second largest producer of silk in the world. Of the four varieties of silks,
Mulberry accounts to 74.51%, Eri accounts to 16.5%, Tasar to 8.5% and Muga accounts
to 0.55%. India exports silk mainly to USA and European countries. The employment
generation due to silk production in the country raised to 8.03 million persons in 2014-
15.
3. Silk Samagra
Silk Samagra scheme is implemented by the Central Silk Board of India. Between 2017
and 2020, the GoI allocated Rs 2,161 crores for the scheme to develop sericulture in the
country. The four main components of the scheme are as follows
4. Central Silk Board

The board is a statutory body that was established in 1948. IT works under Ministry of
Textiles. The headquarters of the board is located in Bangalore. The main functions of
the board are as follows
68. FSSAI: No sale of junk food within 50 metres of schools
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India recently announced that sale of junk
and unhealthy food should be restricted within 50 metres schools and education
institutions.
1. Highlights
The FSSAI has made the announcement to provide safe foods and balanced diet to
children in schools. The foods referred to as HFSS (High in Fat, Salt and Sugar) cannot be
sold in mess premises and scool canteens.
2. Regulations
The GoI has brought in several regulations to make sure school children are provided
with healthy food. The Mid-Day Meal scheme should receive license or registration from
food regulating agency. Also, it should comply requirements of hygiene practices as
specified under Schedule 4 of Food Safety and Standard Act.
3. Background
India has the second most number of obese children among 195 countries according to
WHO. Also, western diet affects the diversity of gut bacteria and sets stage for metabolic
diseases. Therefore, these regulations that reduce the intake of unhealthy foods should
be welcomed.
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69. GoI scraps Powerloom Board after Handloom Board
The Ministry of Textiles has disbanded All India Powerloom Board after All India
Handicrafts and Handloom boards. Also, all of the eight Textiles Research Associations in
the country will now cease to be “affiliated bodies” of the ministry.
1. Highlights
The Textile Research Associations will now act as approved bodies to conduct tests,
researches and development activities of textiles sector. The decision has been made to
stick to the principle of “Minimum Government Maximum Governance”.
2. Textiles Research Associations

The eight Textiles Research Associations in India are as follows
3. Textiles Sector in India

The domestic textiles contribute to 2.3% of GDP of India. Also, it contributes to 13% of
export earning of the country and 7% of manufacturing production. Textiles industry
provides second largest employment in the country providing employment to more than
45 million people.
70. Defence Minister launches Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah
On August 10, 2020, the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh launched Atma Nirbhar Bharat
Saptah. The scheme aims to shift India towards local manufacturing and aid “Make in
India” initiative.
1. Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah

The idea of the scheme is to give importance to domestic production in the country. The
idea of observing a week will provide impetus to Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
2. Background
The Defence Minister recently introduced import embargo on 101 defence items to boost
indigenisation of defence production.
71. Indian Railways to observe “Cleanliness Week”
The Indian Railways is to observe Cleanliness Week between August 10, 2020 and
August 15, 2020. The week will give the message of significance of cleanliness.
1. Highlights
During the week, the Indian Railways is to launch special cleanliness drive that will focus
on cleanliness in the station offices, tracks, worksites, colonies and other areas in and
around railway stations. The drive will focus on plastic waste collection from the tracks.
2. 8 Major Cleanliness initiatives of Indian Railways
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2.1. Bio Toilets
The Indian Railways intensified the pace of installation of bio toilets in the coaches. This
was done to avoid the waste from falling on the platform lines and tracks. Under Swachh
Bharat Abhiyan the Railway Ministry had planned to replace all the toilets in the broad-
gauge coaching fleet by 2019.
2.2. Coach Mitra

The Indian Railways launched “Coach Mitra” in around 1000 On Board Housekeeping
Service. It is a single window system to register coach related needs of the passengers.
The requirements might include disinfection, cleaning, train lighting, air conditioning,
etc.
3. Stations Cleanliness Survey Report, 2019

In order to keep periodic checks on the success of the initiatives launched, the Indian
Railways launched third party audit and cleanliness ranking. The Stations Cleanliness
Survey Report was one such report that scored and ranked the stations. According to the
report, the top three cleanest railway stations include Jodhpur, Jaipur and Durgapura.
72. 77 new species of butterfly found in Maharashtra
The study conducted by Bombay Natural History Society has found 77 new species of
butterflies in the ecologically sensitive forest of Matheran hill station in Mumbai. With
this the total number of butterfly species in the forest has gone up to 140.
1. Highlights
Matheran hill station is spread over 214 square kilo metres and is located at 80 km from
the Maharashtra capital. The study was conducted between 2011 and 2019. This is the
first study in the forest in 125 years.
2. Key Findings of the Study

The study found that seasonal variation in butterfly diversity was observed. The
maximum diversity of butterflies was recorded in winter and the least was observed
during monsoon. The study also said that the butterfly diversity in the region is stable
and the chances of immigration or emigration to the surrounding regions are low.
3. Previous studies
Prior to the study that was done by BHNS, a British researcher J A Betham had surveyed
the hills of Matheran for its butterfly diversity in 1894. He had reported 78 species of
butterflies then.
4. Significance of Butterflies diversity

The Butterfly diversity indicate healthy environment and ecosystems. They indicate wide
range of invertebrates. Butterfly diversity is seldom used by the ecologists to study the
impact of habitat loss, climate change and habitat fragmentation.
5. Matheran Hills
It is a hill station located in the state of Maharashtra. The rock types in the hills are
mainly composed of Deccan Trap.
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6. Deccan Trap
Deccan Trap is a large igneous province in west-central India. The term trap has been
used for the type of rock formations that are found in this region. They have multiple
layers of flood basalt.
73. Andhra Pradesh State Industrial Development Policy 2020-23
The Andhra Pradesh Government has launched a new State Industrial Development
Policy for the year 2020-23. The policy aimed to create employment for youth and match
national average in industrial GVA per capita. The previous Industrial Development
Policy of the state was implemented between 2015-20
1. Highlights
The policy was unveiled by the State Industries Minister Gautam Reddy. The policy aims
to promote well-balanced regional growth. It ensures fast turn out time for grounding
investment proposals. Also, it will train and provide skills to workforce in order attract
global investment.
2. Key Features of the Policy
2.1. Infrastructure
 The policy paves way to develop infrastructure facilities targeting MSMEs at affordable rates.
 The policy will enable development of mega industrial parks according to the local needs.
2.2. Industrial Zoning

 The industrial zoning is to be the key focus area of the policy to ensure planned industrial
development.
 The policy will also aim to provide risk-free investment friendly environment to industries.
Above all, the policy will ensure minimised environmental impacts amidst industrial
development.
2.3. Ease of Doing Business

The policy will also enable faster approval process and enable district level interventions.
2.4. Skill Development

The State Government of Andhra Pradesh is to create 30 skill development centres and
two skill development universities under the policy. The policy will increase the speed of
approval processes and enable district level interventions by collector and also will
establish central helpline desk.
3. Background
The Policy has been prepared by the State Government after extensive consultations
with the stakeholders in industrial, academics and corporate sectors. The policy will
provide skilled labours, best-in-class infrastructure and end to end handholding support
for units to provide industry friendly environment.
4. Significance of the Policy to India

The State is the 8th largest state in the country that holds 4% of population.
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74. eSanjeevani Medicine Platform: 1.5 lakh Online Consultations

provided
The web based comprehensive Telemedicine solution eSanjeevani has so far provided
1.58 lakh online consultations according to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
1. Highlights
The online platform was operationalised in more than 23 states. It covers more than 75%
of population in the country. There are two types of teleconsultation under the platform.
They are as follows
2. About eSanjeevani
The eSanjeevani is implemented under Ayushman Bharat health initiative. The scheme
aims to connect all the 1.5 lakh health and wellness centre established under Ayushman
Bharat. So far, 12,000 health professionals have been provided training through 3,000 of
these centres. Around 250 specialists are available on daily basis on the platform.
However, the service is restricted only to Android App users.
3. Key Features
The main feature of the platform is that it uses MIS-based applications. It is designed for
users to choose varied specialties such as tele-cardiology, tele-ophthalmology, etc. It
also includes Comprehensive Electronic Medical Record, video conferencing, tele-
consultation. It complies with international standards such as
4. Ayushman Bharat
The scheme was launched in 2018 by PM Modi. The scheme aims to provide free
insurance coverage of up to Rs 5 lakhs per family per year. The scheme is meant only for
the poor. Based on the Socio-Economic Caste Census data, around 74 crores of
beneficiary families have been identified.
5. Background
India needs to focus more on health sector for the following reasons
6. COVID-19
The Government of India had announced the beneficiaries of Ayushman Bharat can avail
free COVID-19 tests in any of the Government authorised laboratories.
75. Pathogens listed Critical by World Health Organization found in River

Yamuna
The World Health Organization, 2017 had published its first list of antibiotic resistant
priority pathogens that pose the greatest threat to human lives. These critical group and
certain multi-drug resistant bacteria are found in River Yamuna according to a group of
researchers from IIT Delhi.
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1. Highlights
The study conducted by the researchers says that sewage is the main source of their
entry into the river. The researcher team studies 20 major sewer drains of the river over
two seasons at five major locations of Delhi.
2. About the Study

The study says that poor sewage collection and lack of sewage treatment plants and
lack of connectivity between the drain are the main reasons for the deadly bacteria to
develop in the river. There is a need for adequate infrastructure for sewage
management in the region.
3. WHO list of “Priority Pathogens”

The list was published by World Health Organization in 2017. The list contains antibiotic
resistant pathogens for which drugs are urgently needed. The list particularly highlights
the Gram-negative bacteria that are resistant to multiple antibiotics.
76. SURAKHSYA: National Portal of “Project Elephant” launched
On August 10, 2020, the Union Environment Minister Prakash Javadekar launched
National Portal on Human Elephant conflict called “SURAKHSYA”. The portal aims to
collect real time information and will also manage conflicts on real time basis.
1. Highlights
The National Portal was launched during the celebration of international annual event
World Elephant Day. The World Elephant Day is celebrated every year on August 12 to
create elephant conservation and share knowledge for better protection of wild captive
elephants.
2. IUCN
The Asian Elephants are listed as “Endangered” in the IUCN Red List. This is mainly
because, most of the Asian countries except India have lost their elephant population
due to loss of habitats and poaching. There are 50,000 to 60,000 Asian Elephants. Of
these, 60% are in India.
3. Elephants in India
Elephant is the Natural Heritage Animal of India. Indian Elephants have been listed under
Appendix I of Convention of the Migratory Species in the recently held Conference of
Parties of Convention of Migratory Species 13 in Gujarat in 2020.
4. Project Elephant
The Project Elephant was launched in 1992 by the Ministry of Environment and Forest.
The project aims to provide financial and technical support to wild life management. It
aims to make sure long-term survival of elephant populations in the natural habitats.
The project also supports research in management of elephants and providing veterinary
care and also conservation among local people.
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5. Elephant Corridors
The Elephant Corridor is a narrow stretch of land that connects habitats with elephant
population. There are 88 identified elephant corridors in India. Of these, 22 are in North-
Eastern India, 14 in northern West Bengal, 20 in South India, 12 in North-Western India
and 20 in Central India.
77. Mount Sinabung Volcano of Indonesia erupts
The Mount Sinabung of Indonesia has erupted again. The volcano was dormant for 400
years and erupted recently in the year 2010 and in 2014.
1. Highlights
The volcano is the most active in the country. It is located on the Pacific Ring of Fire that
has more than 120 active volcanos.
2. Ring of Fire
The Pacific Ring of Fire is a major area in the Pacific Ocean where volcanic eruptions and
earthquakes occur. Around 90% of world earthquake occur in the region. The ring of fire
is a direct result of plate tectonics.
3. Plate Tectonics
The Ring of Fire is caused due to the collisions of Lithospheric plates. They are as follows
4. Volcanos in India
The only active volcano in India is located in Barren Island, Andaman Islands. They are
Narcondam in Andaman Islands, Baratang in Andaman Islands, Dhosi Hills in Haryana,
Dhinodhar Hills in Gujarat and Tosham Hills in Haryana.
5. Types of Volcanos
An Active Volcano is a volcano that has at least one eruption in the last 10,000 years. An
active volcano might be erupting or dormant. A Dormant Volcano is an active volcano
that is not erupting but is supposed to erupt again. An extinct volcano erupts for at least
10,000 years and not expected to erupt again.
August 11, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
78. Huge amount of Carbon Dioxide released by Himalayan Geothermal

Springs
The Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology operating under the Department of Science
and Technology investigated gas emissions in the springs of Himalayas. According to the
study, the springs in the Himalayan region show a significant discharge of carbon
dioxide.
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1. Highlights
There are more than 600 Geothermal springs in the Himalayan region. They play a major
role in regional and global climate. They are spread across 10,000 square kilo metres.

The carbon dioxide released from the thermal springs are sourced from metamorphic
decarbonation of carbonate rocks, magmatism and oxidation of graphite. These rocks
are present in the deep Himalayan core. The Geothermal rocks in the region are
dominated by evaporation and weathering of silicate rocks. The Isotopic analyses point
that there are meteoric sources of geothermal water.
3. Carbon Cycle
The carbon outflux from the interior of the earth through volcanic eruptions, geothermal
systems and fault zones contribute to global carbon cycle. It affects long term and short-
term climate of the earth.
4. Geothermal Springs
Water on the earth’s surface percolates into porous rocks and is subjected to intense
heat. When this water matter comes in contact with hot magma in the lower part of the
crust, they are converted into steam. As more and more water get converted into steam,
the pressure increases. The increased pressure forces the steam through vents beneath
the earth’s surface. The steam gets converted into hot spring water as it reaches the
surface due to decrease in pressure.
79. Chhattisgarh to launch “Indira Van Mitan Yojana”
The Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel announced about the launch of “Indira
Van Mitan Yojana” on the eve of International Day of World Indigenous People. It is an
initiative to support forest dwellers of Chhattisgarh and achieve self-reliance.
1. Highlights
The scheme aims to benefit 19 lakh families from scheduled areas of Chhattisgarh by
providing them with self-employment opportunities.
2. Key Features of the scheme

Under the scheme, a group of 10 to 15 youngsters are to be formed in 10,000 villages of
Chhattisgarh. The villages are to be selected from tribal areas the state. The groups will
manage forest based economic activities. They will establish new avenues that will help
to create self-employment for the forest dwellers. Also, the team will manage
procurement, marketing and processing of forest produce.
3. Other Initiatives
The Chhattisgarh Government has been launching several other projects in order to
improve lives of the tribal community in the state. One such recent initiative is the
Bodhghat Irrigation Project. The project was launched on River Indravati river to increase
irrigation in the tribal areas of Bastar. The rehabilitation package for the submergence of
land is to be decided by the local tribals.
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80. COVAX Facility of WHO renews its invitation
The COVAX Facility of the World Health Organization recently renewed its invitation to
countries to join its COVID-19 vaccine facility. The COVAX facility is a mechanism
designed to guarantee fair, rapid and equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines.
1. COVAX Facility
The facility was designed by the WHO to make vaccines available for poor countries as
well. It works towards making rapid progress in tackling COVID-19 pandemic. The
countries that join the platform will have access to the vaccines that are developed
under GAVI alliance as well.
2. What are the main goals of COVAX?

 To actively manage portfolio of vaccines
 To deliver vaccines as soon as they are available
 To end acute phase of pandemic
 To rebuild economies
3. GAVI alliance
The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunization is a public-private global health
partnership that aims at increasing the access to immunisation in poor countries. The
GAVI alliance brings together the World Bank, UNICEF, vaccine industries and other
technical agencies. India is a member of GAVI.
4. Global Vaccine Summit

The Global Vaccine Summit that was held in June 2020 raised 9.2 billion USD. PM Modi
addressed the summit and India pledged 15 million USD towards the alliance during the
summit.
81. Dashboard for National Infrastructure Pipeline launched
The Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman recently launched National Infrastructure

Pipeline online dashboard. The dashboard is to act as a one-stop solution for all
stakeholders who are looking for information about infrastructure projects.
1. Highlights
The Finance Minister had announced an outlay of Rs 100 lakh crore for infrastructure
projects in the country for the next 5 years in her Budget Speech 2019-20. The
dashboard is to be hosted by India Investment Grid (IIG). IIG is a dynamic online platform
that showcases real time investment opportunities in the country.
2. National Infrastructure Pipeline

The National Infrastructure Pipeline was launched for the year 2019-25. The main aim of
NIP is to provide ease of living. This is to be achieved by providing safe drinking water,
access to clean and affordable energy, modern railway stations, health care for all, bus
terminals, airports and world class educational institutes.
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82. August 12: World Elephant Day
Every year, World Elephant Day is celebrated on August 12. It is an international event
that is dedicated to preserve and protect world elephants. The idea of World Elephant
Day was conceived by Canadian film makers Patricia Sims and Michael Clark in Thailand.
1. Highlights
The main objective of celebrating World Elephant Day is to create awareness about the
urgent plight of Asian and African elephants. The African Elephants are listed as
“Vulnerable” and Asian Elephants as “Endangered” in the IUCN Red List of threatened
species.
2. India
On the eve of celebrating the World Elephant Day, India launched a National Portal
called “SURAKHSYA”. The portal will collect real time information about human elephant
conflicts. Also, the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change released a
Compendium on Best practices on Human-elephant Conflict Management in India.
3. Elephant Census in India

Elephant census in India is conducted once in five years under Project Elephant. It was
previously conducted in 2017. According to the census, Elephant population in India is
estimated to be 29,964. The South India alone has 14,612 and the North East has
10,139. On the other hand, the census of tiger in India is conducted once in 4 years.
4. Asian Elephant Specialist Group of IUCN

The Asian Elephant Specialist Group is a network of specialists that are concerned with
the study, management, monitoring and conservation of Asian Elephants. It aims to
promote long-term conservation of Asia’s elephants. It is a part of the Species Survival
Commission of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
83. Indian Armed Forces revive “Project Cheetah”
The Indian Armed Forces have decided to revive “Project Cheetah” amidst tensions with
China. The project was pending for a long time and the tri-services have now decided to
revive the project under Rs 3,500 crores.
1. Ajay Kumar Committee

The proposal of reviving “Project Cheetah” has been sent to a newly formed high-level
defence ministry committee under Ajay Kumar. Ajay Kumar is the defence secretary. He
is in charge of all capital procurements of Indian Army, Navy and Air Force.
2. About the Project

Under the project, around 90 Heron drones of the services are to be upgraded with laser-
guided bombs, air launched anti-tank guided missiles and air to ground anti-tank guided
missiles. The project was pending over a long period of time.
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3. Benefits
The upgrade will help the Armed forces ground stations to operate the drones from far
distances and also control them through satellite communication system. Also, the
upgrade will help to pin-point intelligence about hideouts where men were involved
earlier.
4. Heron UAVs
The Heron Unmanned Aerial Vehicle was made in Israel. It is a medium-altitude UAV. It is
capable of returning to base autonomously in case of lost communication. It carries up to
250 kg of weight including thermographic camera, airborne ground surveillance visible
light, radar systems, etc.
84. Gujarat launches Mukhya Mantri Kisan Sahay Yojana
On August 10, 2020, the Gujarat Government launched a new scheme called the Mukhya
Mantri Kisan Sahay Yojana. The scheme will replace Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana in
the state for the current year alone.
1. Highlights
The scheme is being replaced as the insurance firms have sought high premium from
the government this time. If approved, the state government will have to pay Rs 4,500
crores. This amount is much higher than the average yearly premium of Rs 1,800 crores.
The compensation is to be provided if the loss of crop is more than 33% due to excess
rain or drought or unseasonal rainfall.
2. Key Features of the Scheme

If the crop loss of the farmer is between 33% and 66%, the farmer will get compensation
of Rs 20,000 per hectare for a maximum of four hectares. If the crop loss is above 60%
the farmer will get compensation of Rs 25,000 per hectare for maximum of four
hectares. The farmers will also get additional compensation under the State Disaster
Response Fund.
3. Benefits
The new scheme is to benefit 56 lakh farmers of the state. Also, it is simpler than that of
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. A dedicated portal is to be launched under the
scheme for the farmers to register online. Also, the tribal farmers registered under
Forest Rights Act are also eligible to gains benefits under the scheme.
4. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

The Scheme was launched in line with One Nation-One Scheme theme. The scheme will
replace two existing schemes National agricultural Insurance Scheme and Modified NAIS.
The scheme will provide 2% premium to the farmers for all Kharif crops and 1.5% for all
Rabi crops. For horticultural crops, a premium of 5% is to be paid.
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August 12, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
85. SC Judgement: Women have Equal Rights on Parental Property
On August 11, 2020, a three-judge bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra of Supreme
Court ruled that daughters have equal rights as that of sons on parental property. They
shall remain coparcener throughout their life.
1. Highlights
The judgement said that the daughters have equal rights in parental property as that of
son. This includes in cases where the father died before the enactment of Hindu
Succession (Amendment) Act, 2005. The Judgement also said that the according to
Section 6 of the Hindu Succession Act, 1956, the status of coparcener on the daughter
born before or after amendment in the same manner as that of the son.
2. Coparcener
The term coparcener is a person who assumes legal rights in parental property by birth
only. According to the judgement, a daughter is a now a coparcener as well.
3. Major Change
In 2015, the Supreme Court had pronounced that the rights under the amendment of
Hindu Succession Act, 1956 is applicable only to living daughters. However, in the recent
judgement, the apex court pronounced that “a daughter always remains a loving
daughter”.
4. Hindu Succession Act, 1956

The act codifies laws related to intestate or unwilled succession among Buddhists,
Hindus, Jains and Sikhs. It provides a uniform and comprehensive system of inheritance
and succession. It was amended in 2005. Under the amendment, Section 6 was inserted.
5. Background
Till 2005, the Hindu Succession Act, 1956 was biased against women. Only after the
amendment in the act, equal rights were awarded to daughters in their fathers’
ancestral property.
6. Key points of the act

 Daughters have same rights to inherit their mother’s property as that of their son. They
inherit equally.
 The rights of a widow is same as that of a married woman to acquire property
 If a woman is divorced, she is not included under Class I heir of her husband. Class I heir of a
Hindu male are mothers, daughters, widows and sons
 A mother inheriting from her son does not change based on whether she is widow, remarried
or divorced.
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86. Tribal Freedom fighters Museum developed by GoI
The Ministry of Tribal Affairs had announced that around nine tribal fighters’ museums
are to be established by 2022. The museums are to be dedicated to freedom fighters of
tribal clans. Out of these nine, two are nearing completion and the rest are in different
stages of progress.
1. Highlights
The largest of all the nine museums is to be built in Rajpipla in Gujarat at a cost of Rs
102.55 crores. The rest of the museums are built in Ranchi (Jharkhand), Raipur
(Chhattisgarh), Lambasingi (Andhra Pradesh), Kozhikode (Kerala), Hyderabad
(Telangana), Chhindwara (Madhya Pradesh), Senapati (Manipur) and Kelsi (Mizoram).
2. Background
The museums are to be built in states where the tribals lived and struggled against
British. The museums will depict how much they refused to bow down to the British.
3. Rani Gaidinilu
The Manipur museum is to be dedicated to Rani Gaidinilu. This museum is the second
most expensive after Gujarat Museum
4. Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh

The Museum for the tribal freedom fighter Shaheed Veer Narayan Singh is to be
established in Raipur, Chhattisgarh at a cost of Rs 25.66 crores.
5. Birsa Munda
The Museum at Ranchi, Jharkhand is to be dedicated to the Tribal freedom fighter Birsa
Munda. The museum is to be established at a cost of Rs 36.66 crores. He was from
Munda tribe. He led the tribal religious Millenarian movement that arose in Bengal
Presidency in late 19th century.
6. Shri Alluri Seetha Ram Raju

The Museum at Lammasingri, Andhra Pradesh is to be dedicated to Shri Alluri Seetha
Ram Raju. It is to be established at a cost of Rs 35 crores.
7. Tantya Bheel, Bheema Nayak and Khajaya Nayak

The Museum to be built in Chhindwara, Madhya Pradesh is to be dedicated to these
three leaders.
7.1. Tantia Bhil

He was named a dacoit during British rule between 1978 and 1889. HE was from the
Adivasi community.
7.2. Bheema Nayak

Bheema Nayak fought against the British during the 1857 revolt. He was hanged in
Andaman prison in 1876. In 2017, Shaheed Bhima Nayak Pariyojana was launched by
the Madhya Pradesh Government.
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8. Ramji Gond
The Museum at Telangana is to be dedicated to Ramji Gond. It is to be constructed at a
cost of Rs 18 crores.
87. Kamala Harris, an Indian Origin nominated as US Vice President

candidate
The US elections are due for the year 2020. While President Donald Trump has one more
term to run for US elections, he is to be challenged by the opponent Joe Biden. Joe Biden
was the Vice President of the US during President Obama’s period.
1. Highlights
The Presidential Candidate Joe Biden has chosen Kamala Harris to run for Vice President.
As a running mate, she will be the first black woman and the first person of Indian origin
to be nominated for the national office of a majority party in the US.
2. About Kamala Harris

Kamala was born in Oakland, California. She is the district attorney from San Francisco
and former attorney general of California. She has been a supporter of racial justice
legislation in the killing of Floyd. She also serves in high profile committees in the Senate
such as Judiciary Committee and Intelligence Committee.
3. US Presidential election
The US Presidential election is scheduled in November 2020. It is the 59th Quadrennial
Presidential election.
4. Impeachment
The House of Representatives voted to impeach President Trump in 2019. This was the
first time; a president of the USA was impeached during his first term.
88. India test fires first Private Upper Stage Rocket Engine
The Aerospace Start up Skyroot Aerospace has test fired an upper stage rocket engine
and has become the first Indian private company to demonstrate the capability of
homegrown rocket engine.
1. Highlights
The 3D printed rocket engine was named after the Nobel Laureate Sir C V Raman. The
rocket had fewer moving parts and weighed half of conventional rocket engines.
According to the master minds that developed the rocket, it is capable of multiple
restarts. Also, it is capable of inserting various satellites into multiple orbits in a single
mission.
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2. Skyroot Aerospace
The rocket was developed by the Skyroot firm that is headquartered at Hyderabad. The
firm is backed by Curefit founders Mukesh Bansal and Ankit Nagori. The Skyroot
Aerospace was founded by former scientists of ISRO (Indian Space Research
Organization).
3. About the mission

The first rocket that is to be launched in lower earth orbit weighs around 250-700 kgs. It
is expected to be launched by 2021.
4. Aerospace start-ups in India

India had recently opened its space sector to its private players such as Skyroot,
Bellatrix and Agnikul. They are building small launchers with 3-D printed engines. This is
bringing down the cost of satellite launching. Also, this methodology is gaining bigger
pie of global small satellite launch market.
5. Private Sector in ISRO

In June 2020, GoI introduced a major reform in space sector by opening doors to private
sectors. This will allow the space research organization to focus more on development
activities, exploration, new technologies, exploration mission and also human space
flight programmes.
89. PM Modi to launch “Transparent Taxation-Honouring the Honest”
On August 12, the Prime Minister Modi is to unveil a new platform called “Transparent
Taxation-Honouring the Honest”. This was earlier announced by the Finance Minister
Nirmala Sitharaman as “Tax Charter” in Budget 2020-21.
1. Highlights
The steps are being introduced to make India self-reliant. The package has been
designed based on inputs from global manufacturers. These sets will aim in securing
jobs in urban centres. Also it will ease compliance and benefit tax payers greatly.
2. What are the new steps?

The new steps include proposed set of measures to focus on demand and supply. It also
includes defence spending. The steps also focus on job creation and tax payers rights.
3. Tax Charter
The taxpayer charter is to be incorporated in the Income Tax act to make sure taxpayers
rights establish trust between tax payer and tax administrator. This is being done to
avoid harassments. There are only three countries in the world that have enshrined
rights of its taxpayers. They are Canada, Australia and US.
4. Tax Reforms
The GoI has been introducing various Tax Reforms lately. These include corporate Tax
rate reduction from 30% to 22%. The focus on tax rates were on simplification of direct
tax laws.
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90. COVID-19: Israel shares high end technology with AIIMS
Israel recently shared its artificial intelligence (AI)-based technologies and high-end
equipment with AIIMS, Delhi. This is a part of India-Israel cooperation fight against
COVID-19.
1. Highlights
These technologies include AI video-oriented and voice operated autonomous personal
robot and mobile applications that can be installed on any mobile phones of COVID-19
staff. Also, Israel has provided a 120-hour disinfection product called CPD. This stays
active to protect surface against new attacks of contamination. Apart from these, a non-
invasive remote patient monitoring system has been provided that will aid as screening
tool of respiratory indicators for COVID-19 recovering patients.
2. India’s help to Israel

Earlier India helped Israel with safety head gears and medicines.
3. India-Israel
As of 2014, India is the third largest Asian trade partner and tenth largest trading
partner in the world. Israeli Defence Minister came to India in 2015 to participate in Aero
India. Aero India is a biennial air show held in Bengaluru at the Yelahanka Air Force
Station. The event is organised by the Defence Ministry.
4. Defence Relations
The Drone Fleet of Indian Defence is predominantly Israeli made. In 1996, India
purchased 32 IAI Searcher Unmanned Aerial Vehicles for the first time. In 2007, India-
Israel signed 2.5 billion USD worth deal to develop anti-aircraft system and missiles. In
2011, India bought 8356 Israeli Spike anti-tank missiles.
91. August 12: International Youth Day
Every year International Youth Day is celebrated on August 12 by the United Nations and
other organizations. The first International youth Day was celebrated in 1999. This year,
the day is celebrated under the following theme
1. Highlights
The day is celebrated to rise voices of young people and their meaningful initiatives.
With just 10 years left to achieve 2030 Agenda of Sustainable Development Goals, the
trusts on public institutions are eroding. The International Governance is currently under
severe crisis. It is rooted in need to strengthen solutions and threats. This includes worst
humanitarian emergencies such as Myanmar, Yemen, Syria, Climate Change and COVID-
19. Therefore, the United Nations believes that it is important to increase the voice of
youths to achieve the 2030 Agenda in order to solve the crisis in the world.
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2. World Conference of Ministers responsible for Youth
The recommendation to celebrate the International Youth Day was made at the World
Conference of Ministers responsible for Youth held in 1999. The 2019 conference was
organised by the Portuguese Government in cooperation with the United Nations to
engage youth in implementing 2030 Agenda of Sustainable Development Goals.
3. World Programme of Action for Youth

The World Programme of Action for Youth was adopted in 1995. It covers 15 youth
priority youth areas and contain proposals of action in each of these areas. The
programme was launched by the United Nations. The programme focuses on education,
hunger and poverty, employment, health, environment, substance abuse, Juvenile
Justice, Leisure-time activities, girls and young women, participation, Globalization, ICT,
HIV, Armed Conflicts, Intergenerational Issues and Disability.
4. Youth in India
India (census) recognises individuals between the age of 15 and 24 years as youth.
According to 2011 population census, youths in India contribute to one-fifth of total
population. India launched National Youth Policy in 2014 with a holistic vision, “To
Empower youth of the country to achieve their full potential”. The National Youth Policy
recognises individuals between the age of 15 and 29 years as youth.
92. “Elephants. Not Commodities” Report: 200 elephants in India are in

inadequate conditions
The International Animal Welfare Organization, World Animal Protection on the eve of
World Elephant Day (August 12) released its report, “Elephants. Not Commodities”.
According to the report, over 200 elephants in India are kept in severe inadequate
conditions.
1. Highlights
The report researches on Elephant Tourism in the countries such as India, Thailand,
Laos, Nepal, Cambodia, Sri Lanka and Malaysia.
2. The Report on India

According to the report, India is home to second-highest number of elephants used in
tourism in Asia. There are 21 venues in India that houses 509 elephants that are used in
Tourism. The report says that of these 509 elephants, 45% (225) are in inadequate
conditions.
3. Highlights: World
The report says that over 3,800 elephants are in captive in over 357 Asian Elephant
Tourism sites. Thailand is home to three-quarters of these elephants. The country has
seen a 70% rise in just 10 years of time.
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4. Asian Elephants
During the Conference on Conservation of Migratory Species of Wild Animals (COP 13)
that was held in India in February 2020, Asian Elephant, Great Indian Bustard and Bengal
florican were the top 10 endangered species of migratory animals that were included in
UN list of protection. The COP 13 was held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
5. World Animal Protection

The International Animal Protection Organization, World Animal Protection has been in
operation for 30 years. The organization works to end animal cruelty in the world. The
headquarters of the organization is located in London.
93. PM SVANidhi Scheme: 5 lakh loan applications from street vendors
On August 12, 2020, the number of applications received by the Government of India
under PM-SVANidhi Scheme crossed 5 lakhs in 41 days of its launch. The scheme was
launched to benefit the street vendors. PM SVANidhi is PM Street Vendor’s Atma Nirbhar
Nidhi.
1. Highlights
Under the scheme, the number of loans sanctioned has crossed 1 lakh. The Government
aims to provide loans up to Rs 10,000 to the street vendors under the scheme. It was
launched by Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
The scheme aims to facilitate loans to 50 lakh street vendors in urban, peri-urban and
rural areas.
2. About the scheme

The scheme provides incentives in the form of interest subsidy at 7% per annum. The
scheme also provides cash back up to Rs 1,200 per annum. The Micro Finance
Institutions and Non-Banking Financial Companies are engaged as lending institutions
under the scheme. This has been done to bring banks at door steps of the nano-
entrepreneurs. These banking institutions are to operate in addition to private and public
sector banks, scheduled commercial banks, cooperative banks, regional rural banks and
Self-Help Group Banks.
3. PM-SVANidhi Scheme
The scheme brings relief to street vendors and has a response of more than 1.5 lakh
vendors. The scheme was launched in June 2020. It was launched to help the street
vendors so that they can resume their livelihoods due to COVID-19 lock down.
4. Key features of the scheme

 The scheme is to run till March 2022
 The Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) is the technical partner to implement
the scheme.
 The scheme is to manage credit guarantee to lend institutions through Credit Guarantee Fund
Trust for Micro and Small Enterprises.
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 The scheme is applicable to vendors, Thelewalas, Hawkers, Theliphadwalas who supply goods
and services. The street vendors in the surrounding urban, peri-urban and rural areas are also
included in the scheme.
94. COVID-19: National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration meets

for the first time
On August 12, 2020, the National Expert Group on Vaccine Administration met for the
first time. The meeting was chaired by the Niti Aayog member Dr V K Paul along with
Secretary of Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.
1. Highlights
The group discussed on the implementation and conceptualisation of delivery
mechanism of COVID-19 vaccines. This included inputs from the Standing Technical Sub
Committee of National Technical Advisory Group on Immunization (NTAGI). It also
discussed the procurement mechanism of COVID-19 vaccines.
2. Russia COVID-19 Vaccines

Russia recently named its first COVID-19 vaccine as “Sputnik V”. The name is in
reference to space race. Currently, it is leading in race against COVID-19 vaccines being
developed in other countries such as China, USA, India. Sputnik was the Soviet satellite
that was launched in 1957.
3. China COVID-19 vaccine

‘Sinovac’ is the COVID-19 vaccine being developed by China. It is now on the last stages
of its trials. The other Chinese Vaccines that entered to the last stage of COVID-19
vaccines are PiCoVacc and CoronaVac. CoronaVac is in its last stages of trial in Brazil.
Sinovac is to be tested in Bangladesh.
95. Two Light Combat Helicopters of HAL deployed in Ladakh
On August 12, 2020, the Indian Air Force deployed two Light Combat Helicopters (LCH)
manufactured by HAL in Ladakh region. They are deployed for operations at high altitude
amid India-China border tensions.
1. Highlights
The LCH has twin engines and is the lightest attack helicopter in the world. It was
developed by HAL and thus it meets the requirements of Defence of the country under
Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
2. About LCH
The LCH can hit any type of target in day and night. It is capable of carrying adequate
weapon loads at high altitudes under varied conditions. It has potential to operation in
AOR (Area of Responsibility).
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2.1. What is Area of Responsibility?
It is the area with specific boundaries where the commanders have authority to plan and
conduct operations to which he or she bears the responsibility.
3. HAL
HAL is expected to receive an order of 15 LCHs by end of 2020. Of these, 10 are to be
used by the Indian Air Force and five by the Indian Army. Both Indian Army and IAF need
160 LCH in all. The decision of these procurements is carried out by the Defence
Acquisition Council.
4. Defence Acquisition Council

The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) recently approved the procurement 33 fighter
jets. This includes 12 Su-30 MKI and 21 MIG-29. Also, the DAC has approved upgradation
of 59 MIG-29 aircrafts. The upgradation is to be done from Russia at a cost of Rs 7,418
crores. The Su-30 MKI is to be procured from HAL at a cost of Rs 10, 730 crores.
96. Lok Sabha: New French Course launched
The Lok Sabha has launched a new French Course at beginner level for the staff and
officials. Around 57 officials have been registered under the course.
1. About the Course

The course is being launched as its is essential to acquire knowledge of French language
in the interconnected world. The initiative is to be implemented by the Parliamentary
Research and Training Institute for Democracy (PRIDE).
2. PRIDE
PRIDE was set up in 1976 to provide training to parliamentary staff, parliamentarians
and others in various disciplines of parliamentary institutions. The activities of PRIDE
include orientation programmes, round table discussions and lectures for Members of
Parliament.
3. French in India
The presence of French in India began in 1673 when the French established the French
East India Company. However, their presence in the country was minor as compared to
that of British.
4. Significance of Foreign language to Parliamentarians

In the current world, it is essential for the Parliamentarians to learn as many as foreign
languages to improve India’s ties at international levels. It is important for India to
monitor every development, technology upgrade, defence developments, health and
education methodologies at international level. This will help India to stay in pace and
keep up its name at global level increasing trade and investment opportunities and grab
right breakthroughs. The Parliamentarians can thus pave way towards economic growth
and earn significant name for the country in the global market. Thus, it is significant for
the Parliamentarians to learn as many foreign languages.
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August 13, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
97. GoI panel proposes two formats of Business Responsibility Report
On August 12, 2020, the panel formed by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs (MCA) made
its proposals on Business Responsibility Report. The panel was formed in 2018 in efforts
to have a single source for all the non-financial disclosures made by the corporates.
1. Highlights
The panel proposed that the Business Responsibility Report shall be called as Business
Responsibility and Sustainability Report. This is to help in reflecting better intent and
scope of the report.
2. Recommendations made
The panel has recommended the following
3. Background
The MCA in 2011 released the National Voluntary Guidelines on Social and
Environmental and Economic Responsibilities of Business. The process to revise these
guidelines began in 2018 to align them with Sustainable Development Goals and UNGP
(United Nations Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights). The NGRBC was
released in 2019.
4. National Guidelines on Responsible Business Conduct

The NGRBC was designed to assist businesses. The guidelines were framed based on the
following
98. NASA Planet Hunter TESS finds 66 new Exoplanets
The planet hunter of NASA called the TESS (Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite) has
found 66 new Exo planets. TESS is Transitioning Exoplanet Survey Satellite. It scanned
about 75% of the starry sky during its mission.
1. Highlights
The planet hunter TESS monitors monitored the sky for about a month using four
cameras. The mission has been extended till September 2022. The mission is to further
explore along the ecliptic orbit plane of the earth around the sun.
2. About TESS
TESS is a space telescope for NASA explorer programme designed to search Exoplanets.
It searches for Exoplanets covering 400 times larger area as covered by Kepler Mission.
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3. Kepler Mission
The Kepler Mission was launched by NASA to survey Milky Way Galaxy. It was mainly
focused on discovering hundreds of Earth-like small planets. The mission focused on the
following
4. India’s Exoplanet Search Mission

PARAS is India’s Exoplanet search mission. PARAS is PRL Advanced Radial-velocity Abu-
sky Search. It is ground-based exoplanet search device. It is located at Mt Abu. It works
at a resolution of 67,000. PARAS has achieved RV accuracy of 1.3 m/sec. PARAS works
on bright sun like quiet stars. It uses Thorium-Argon lamp for calibration. It is capable of
detecting planets around M-type stars.
5. M-Type Stars
Around 76% of stars in the solar system are M-type stars. They have low luminosities.
99. Indian Institute of Meteorology Study: Lakshadweep Corals have

answers about Indian Monsoon
The Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) has recently stated that the Corals in
the North Indian Ocean have vital answers about the onset and withdrawal of Indian
Monsoons. The Indian Monsson has been arriving with variabilities in the recent years.
This is due to several factors apart from Climate Change. The Lakshadweep and
Maldives Corals have answers to these variabilities according the IITM Study.
1. Highlights
The study states that the bands growing on the coral surface is capable of revealing
about paleoclimatic conditions, ambient water temperature, rainfall and other aspects in
the past. This is similar to that of the tree rings used to determine the information about
the past climate.

Sea Surface Temperature is the vital factor that governs Indian Monsoon. It regulates
moisture production in the sea and also affects wind circulation patterns causing rainfall
in the monsoon season. The salinity of the sea water increases with increase in Sea
Surface Temperature. This means that increased temperature leads to higher rate of
evaporation leaving behind larger concentrations of salt in the sea. This is common in
summers. However, the study has found that there has been departure in this trend in
the Northern Indian Ocean especially in the seas of Lakshadweep.
3. Bands in the Corals

The bands in the corals suggest their lifespan. They live anywhere between 300 and 400
years. The acidification in the oceans can push corals get dissolved in sea water.
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100. China extends anti-dumping Tariff on Indian Fibre Optic Product
On August 12, 2020, the Ministry of Commerce announced that China is extending anti-
dumping tariff on fibre optic products made in India.
1. Highlights
The tariff is to take effect on august 14, 2020 and is to last for five years. The tariffs are
to range between 7.4% and 30.6%. Earlier china had slapped anti-dumping tariff on
Indian products five years till August 2019 and had then reviewed.
2. Anti-Dumping Tariff
It is a protectionist tariff that is imposed by domestic government on foreign imports.
These products have potential to cut the local businesses. Dumping is the process of
unloading goods into a foreign market at lower market value.
3. Background
Two days earlier, India imposed anti dumping duties on imports of black toner powder
originating from China and Malaysia.
4. India-China Optical Fibres

India traded 129.78 million USD worth Optical fibres, bundles and cables from China in
the year 2019. The data is from the United Nations COMTRADE database in international
trade.
5. Anti-Dumping Norms
According to Global Trade Norms, a country shall impose tariffs on dumped goods to
provide level-playing field to domestic manufacturers. Also, duty is imposed only after
thorough investigation by a Quasi-Judicial body. In India, this job is done by DGTR
(Directorate General of Trade Remedies).
6. World Trade Organization

The WTO allows imposition of anti-dumping duties. It is aimed at ensuring fair trading
practices and create a level-playing field for the domestic manufacturers.
7. United Nations COMTRADE

The UN COMTRADE is the largest depository of international trade data. There are more
than 3 billion data projects since 1962. More than 170 countries provide their annual
trade statistics to UN COMTRADE.
101. ARUNODOI: Assam to launch mega scheme for Women Financial

Empowerment
On August 17, 2020, the Assam Government is to identify beneficiaries of new scheme
called “ORUNODOI”. The scheme is being launched to help in women financial
empowerment.
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1. Highlights
The ORUNODOI will be the biggest scheme in Assam that will benefit more than 17 lakh
families. The scheme aims to empower women while boosting economic development.
The State Government of Assam has allocated Rs 280 crores for the new scheme. Under
the scheme, Rs 830 per month is to be provided to poor households. This is in addition to
an annual income of Rs 10,000 that will be provided. This will help to meet their
nutritional, medical and academic needs also to will aid in meeting their additional
spending during festivals.
2. Assam Government
The Assam Government has introduced several policies and schemes recently to
improve economic development in the state. This includes Biotechnology Policy,
Industrial and Investment Policy, Handloom Policy, Sugar Policy, Tourism Policy and Start
Up Policy.
3. Biotechnology Policy
This is to be implemented between 2018-22. Assam is one of the biodiversity hot spot
and biotechnology industrial development is yet to take place in the state. Therefore,
Biotechnology Policy has greater significance. The policy is to focus on tissue culture,
medicinal plant processing, microbial based bio fertilizer production, vermi compost
production, mushroom production, etc.
4. Handloom Policy
The Handloom sector in the state provides employment to large number of people in
rural areas. The third Handloom Census conducted by National Council of Applied
Economic Research (NCAER) indicated that the total weaver households in the country is
declining. GoI has taken several measures to boost handloom sector in Assam. The Muga
silk of Assam was the 38th product to receive GI tag.
102. NITI Aayog: Oracle Cloud selected to transform Aspirational

Districts
On August 13, 2020, NITI Aayog announced that it has selected Oracle Corporation to
modernise vital IT infrastructure in 112 most backward districts under its Aspirational
Districts Programme.
1. Highlights
The selected 112 districts constitute 28% of Indian population. The Oracle Corporation
will provide new cloud solution and will aid the District Magistrates to transform the lives
of the citizens in these Aspirational districts and also to improve their overall
performance.
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2. Aspirational Districts Programme
The Aspirational Districts Programme is implemented by NITI Aayog. The main objective
of the programme is to monitor real time progress of aspirational districts. It is based on
49 indicators from 5 thematic areas. These include Education, Health and Nutrition,
Agriculture and Water Resources, Basic Infrastructure, Financial Inclusion and Skill
Development. The broad contours of the programme are Convergence, Collaboration
and Competition.
3. Background
India is one of the leading economies in the world that envisages to become a 5 trillion
USD economy by 2024-25. In terms of Human Development Index, India ranks 130.
Human Development Index is prepared by the United Nations Development Programme.
Therefore, it is essential for India to focus on upgrading the standard of living and ease
of living of its citizens. This is to be achieved by the Aspirational Districts Programme.
103. GoI allows sales of Electric Vehicles without BATTERIES
On August 12, 2020, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways announced that the
Electric Vehicles shall be sold and registered without pre-fitted batteries. This will reduce
cost of Electric Vehicles by 50%.
1. Why is the step introduced?

The step is being introduced by GoI as the batteries make the Electric Vehicles highly
expensive than the combustion engines. If the cost of the batteries is delinked from that
of the vehicles, their cost would be far less than that of the fossil-fuel powered vehicles.
The batteries can then be sold by the manufacturer or energy service provider
separately.
2. Concerns
With this step, the manufacturers now rise the question that if the EVs are sold without
batteries how will the subsidies under the Electric Vehicle Adoption Policies be
determined. GoI offers incentives under Electric Vehicles FAME Policy as well.
3. Benefits
The GoI is trying to create an ecosystem that will accelerate the uptake of Electric
Mobility in the country. If the step becomes a success, the batteries can just be rented or
refilled at fuel stations just like diesel and petrol. This will help ultimately remove the
obstacle of under developed Charging Stations Infrastructure in the country.
4. Background
It is important for India to promote the use of Electric Vehicles in the country. India has
committed to cut Green House Gas Emission intensity by 33% to 35% by 2030 as
compared to 2005. WHO says that India is home to 14 out of 20 most polluted cities in
the world. Therefore, it is essential for India to push for use of Electric Vehicles.
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104. India extends 1 million USD to Antigua and Barbuda to combat
COVID-19
On August 12, 2020, India extended 1 million USD to Antigua and Barbuda to combat
COVID-19 outbreak. This is aimed at improving health infrastructure in the country.
1. Highlights
India has also offered same level of assistance, that is, 1 million USD to each of
Caribbean Community under CARICOM. CARICOM is a group of 20 developing countries
in the Caribbean region.
2. India-UNDP Funds
The proposals of Antigua and Barbuda for assistance was processed under the India-
UNDP Funds. The funds are managed by the United Nations Office for South-South
Cooperation (UNOSSC).
3. CARICOM
CARICOM was formed in 1973. It has 15 members namely Antigua and Barbuda,
Barbados, Bahamas, Dominica, Belize, Grenada, Haiti, Guyana, Montserrat, Jamaica, St
Kitts, St Vincent, Suriname, Grenadines, Trinidad, Tobago. The chairmanship of CARICOM
is rotated every six months among the member countries. The CARICOM Single market
aims to benefit people of the region by providing more and better opportunities. This is
mainly in terms of buying and selling goods and services in order to attract investment.
4. India-CARICOM
In 2019, PM Modi held the first India-CARICOM Summit in New York. The meeting focused
on climate change and India’s participation in CARICOM grouping. India announced to
provide 14 million USD grant for the development projects in the region. Also, India
extended 150 million USD of line of credit for solar energy, renewable energy and
climate change related projects.
105. Israel successfully test fires advanced Missile Defence System
On august 13, 2020, Israel successfully tested the advanced missile defence system
Arrow-2. The missile was developed to defend against the short- and mid- range rockets
that are fired from Lebanon and Gaza and also long-range missiles fired from Iran.
1. Highlights
In 2019, USA and Israel jointly test fired Arrow-3 successfully in Alaska. This system was
developed by Israel Aerospace Industries and US Aviation giant Boeing. It became
operational in 2017.
2. India and Arrow Missiles

The Arrow Missiles were developed under complete support of USA. Apart from Israel, no
country has purchased the complete Arrow system from the US. The Indian Government
had sought to purchase Arrow missiles from Israel in 1999. However, the United States
vetoed the request citing MTCR (Missile Technology Control Regime).
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3. Missile Technology Control Regime
It is a multilateral Export Control Regime. India is also a part of the regime. It was
formed in 1987 by G7 industrialised countries. It limits the risks of proliferation of
weapons of mass destruction. It mainly focuses on rockets and Unmanned Aerial
Vehicles.
4. Israel-Lebanon Conflict
The conflict involves a series of military clashes between Israel, Syria and Lebanon. It
also involves various militias acting from within Lebanon. The conflicts peaked during
the Lebanese Civil war. The 2006 Lebanon War was fought between Israel and
Hezobollah. The conflict started when the Hezoballah fighters fired rockets in the Israeli
border.
5. Israel-Gaza Conflicts
It is a part of the Israeli-Palestine conflicts. The conflict began after the Islamist political
party Hamas won the election and Fatah lost in the Palestine elections in 2005-06. This
escalated the split of Palestinian Authority into West Bank under Fatah Government and
Gaza under Hamas. After the elections, the Palestinian militia attacked Israel from Gaza.
Israel on the other hand joined with Egypt and declared blockade on Gaza.
106. India provides 500 million USD assistance to Maldives
On August 13, 2020, the External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar announced that the Indian
Government will provide 100 million USD of grant and 400 million USD of line of credit to
Maldives. The funds are to be used for connectivity projects.
1. Highlights
The project to be implemented in Maldives with the help of financial assistance from
India will be the largest infrastructure project in Maldives. It is a 6.7 kilo metre bridge
construction project that will connect Male in Maldives with three other neighbouring
islands Villingili, Gulhifahu and Thilafushi.
2. Addu Atoll Island

On August 10, 2020, India and Maldives signed a contract to develop five eco-tourism
zones in Addu Atoll of the Island nation. These projects are to be implemented under
high-Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) scheme that involves 5.5 million
USD to Maldives. Currently, there are nine such projects being implemented in Maldives.
3. HICDP
The HICDP Projects are selected by the Maldives Government. The projects involve high-
level of community impact such as child empowerment, health, education, income
generation, sports, sustainable development, etc.
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107. AMRUT Scheme Ranking: Odisha continues to be the Top Performer
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs recently released ranking of states under
AMRUT scheme. Odisha has secured first position by scoring 85.67%.
1. Highlights
AMRUT is Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation Scheme. The scheme
aims to provide piped water supply to households in urban areas of the state. It also
aims at construction of sewerage treatment plants and improving green spaces in the
cities.
2. Odisha
Nine cities of Odisha namely Bhubaneshwar, Sambalpur, Cuttack, Rourkela, Bhadrak,
Balasore, Baripada, Berhampur and Puri were covered under the scheme. Around 2,400
kilo metres of pipeline laying has been completed in the state till date.
3. AMRUT Scheme
The mission was launched in 2015 by PM Modi. It was extended by 2 years in December
2019. The mission mainly focuses on the following
4. Cities covered under the scheme

Around 500 cities were selected under the scheme. All the cities and towns that have
population more than 1 lakh according to the census 2011 are included in the scheme.
The capital cities of states and Union Territories are not covered. The cities that are
classified as Heritage cities by Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs under HRIDAY
scheme are also included in the scheme
5. HRIDAY Scheme
HRIDAY is National Heritage City Development and Augmentation Yojana and was
launched under Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs. It was launched to preserve and
revitalize rich cultural heritage of India.
108. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy receive proposals over 10

GW of fresh solar power Equipment
With the Government of India pushing solar power in several aspects including Atma
Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan, the Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has received several
proposals to make Solar Equipment for over 10 GW.
1. Highlights
India has set its target to set up 100 GW of solar energy by 2022. India has already
achieved 31 GW by October 2019. Currently, the country is focusing on domestic
manufacturing to reduce dependency on imports.
2. Steps taken to reduce import of Solar Equipment

 There is a proposal awaiting before GoI to levy basic customs duty in the range of 20-40% on
solar equipment
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 The Government Departments and Institutions were brought under the ruling that they have
to purchase only domestically manufactured solar cells.
 A 5% interest subvention scheme was proposed for wafers, ingots and cells manufactured in
the country
 Safeguard Duties were implemented against solar equipment imported from China and
Malaysia
3. Concerns
The following hardships are faced by India while adopting solar energy
4. International Solar Alliance

The alliance was proposed by India. It includes 121 countries. Most of them are located
between Tropic of Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn. The alliance works towards reducing
the dependence on fossil fuels. The countries located beyond the tropics can join the
alliance and enjoy all the benefits. However, they do not have voting rights.
5. Background
India has pledged at the Paris summit that it would bring 40% of its electricity
generation from non-fossil fuels by 2030. This includes nuclear power, solar power,
hydro power, renewable energy, etc.
August 15, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
109. United Nations defeats US demand to extend Arms Embargo on Iran
On August 14, 2020, the United Nations defeated the US demand of extending arms
embargo on Iran indefinitely. Embargo is an official ban on trade and other commercial
activity on a country.
1. Highlights
The United Nations Security council voted against extension of arms embargo on Iran. Of
the 15 members, two voted in favor and two voted against and 11 abstained. Israel and
six other Gulf countries supported the extension.
2. Background
The United States had walked out of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action that stopped
Iran from proliferation of nuclear weapons. The deal paved way for Iran to move out of
sanctions.
3. Concerns of JCPOA
 Iran can make things difficult for the US in Syria and Iraq
 Also, the US ability to work with China regarding North Korea and with Russia regarding Syria
will also be impacted.
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 The JCOPA deal reduced the credibility of the US further as it came after US rejecting Trans-
Pacific Partnership and Paris Climate Change Agreement and the North American Free Trade
Agreement.
4. Why did US pull out of JCPOA?

According to the US, the deal provided Iran, its access to billions of dollars but did not
address Iran’s support for groups (Groups that were named terrorists by the US) such as
Hezbollah and Hamas.
5. India-Iran
India-Iran bilateral trade is around 12.89 billion USD. The major Indian exports are rice,
iron and steel, tea, metals, organic chemicals, drugs, electrical machinery. The Indian
imports from Iran include fertilizers, nuts, edible fruits, precious stones.
110. SRIJAN: Online Portal launched to promote Indigenisation of

Defence Production
On August 14, 2020, the Defence Minister Raj Nath Singh launched “SRIJAN”, an online
portal to promote indigenization of Defence production.
1. Highlights
The portal is to display those items that are currently being imported by Indian Defence
Industry. This will help domestic industries of the country to learn and focus more on
these specific items. The GoI is also providing high incentives and flagship programmes
to boost the design, development and manufacturing of these items.
2. About SRIJAN
The Defence Public Sector Units and the Ordnance Factory Board shall display items that
are being imported on the portal.
3. Other Highlights
The Defence Ministry also signed two Memorandum of Understandings with IITs and
Defence Public Sector Undertakings. The plan is to equip India using its own technologies
rather than importing or relying from other countries. This is to be achieved through joint
ventures.
4. Atma Nirbhar Bharat Saptah

It is the week long Atma Nirbhar Bharat celebrations. During the celebrations, several
new facilities were launched, MoUs were signed, Expression of Interests (EOI) were
issued. They include the following
111. Central Water Commission and Google launch Flood forecasting

Initiative
The Central Water Commission along with Google has launched flood forecasting
initiative. Under the initiative, numerous alerts can be sent to the public regarding flood
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situation in the region. Also, people can learn about current water level in the flood
affected regions in the country.
1. Highlights
Google is already sending public alerts to people affected by floods in the country. With
the new initiative, people can now use Google Search to enter a query and seek key
information about the current situation of water level in the flood affected area.
2. Background
This monsoon has brought long flood situation in many states such as UP, Bihar, and
Assam. The water level has risen in regions near water bodies putting hundreds of
thousands of people at risk. The initiative is being brought in at right situation. The flood
alerts in India are issued by the Central Water Commission.
3. About the Initiative

Google is offering colour-coded maps indicating flooded areas. Zooming the map will
give better understanding about the current water level in these regions.
4. Central Water Commission

The CWC was established in 1945. It operates under Ministry of Jal Shakti. The following
are the main functions of the commission
5. Dams in India
Most of the dams in India are maintained by the State Government. However, there are
few organizations such as Bhakra Beas Management Board, National Hydro Electric
Power Corporation and Damodar Valley Corporation that operate dams.
112. National Digital Health Mission launched
On August 15, 2020, PM Modi launched the National Digital Health Mission during his
address at the 74th Independence Day celebrations.
1. Highlights
Under the mission, every Indian is to get a Health ID card. The ID card will contain all
relevant information about the person’s past medical condition, treatment and
diagnosis. The mission is completely technology based.
2. Features
 The citizens holding the cards shall allow one-time access to the doctors and health care
providers during their visit to the hospitals
 The permission to access confidential medical data is to be provided for every visit by the
patient himself. By this, the privacy of the patient is maintained. The control of access to the
digital records is completely in the hands of the patient. The doctors can access the medical
record every time only at the will of the patients.
 The Mission allows patients to access health services remotely. It also features Tele-
consultation and E-Pharmacies.
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3. About the Health ID card
The details of the prescription is to be logged in the health ID card provided under the
scheme. It will also contain results of tests conducted, reports, advised medication, etc.
The ID is to hold information about every single test conducted, diagnosis, treatment
and medicines.
4. Ayushman Bharat
The programme was launched in 2018 to address health issues at primary, secondary
and tertiary levels. There are two main components of the scheme. They are Pradhan
Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana that was called the National Health Protection Scheme earlier
and Health and Wellness Centres.
5. Background
It is important for GoI to provide so much importance to the health sector for the
following reasons
113. India sends Humanitarian aid to Lebanon to assist Beirut Explosion

Victims
The Government of India has sent 58 tonnes of emergency humanitarian aid to the
people affected by Beirut Explosion in Lebanon. This includes Personal Protective
Equipment, surgical gowns, surgical gloves as well.
1. Highlights
India dispatched the aid through C-17 heavy lift aircrafts. It included wheat flour, pulses,
sugar, blankets, sleeping mats, dignity kits, medical supplies, etc.
2. Beirut Explosion
On August 4, 2020, 3,000 tonnes of stored Ammonium Nitrate exploded killing 170
people and injuring 6,000. According to the World Bank, around 5,000 residentials were
damaged due to the blast and has estimated the total damage to be 10-15 billion USD.
3. Lebanon PM resigned
Following the explosion, there were outrageous protests in the country due to which the
Lebanese PM Hassan Diab resigned. Lebanon has a power-sharing government
structure. The power-sharing is based on religion. This includes three major religions
namely Sunni Muslim, Christian and Shiite Muslim.
4. Recent Protests in Lebanon

The 2019-20 protests of Lebanon are locally known as October Revolution. The protests
were due to imposition of taxes on tobacco, gasoline and VOIP calls on applications such
as WhatsApp. Also, the protests condemned sectarian rule, unemployment and stagnant
economy. The unemployment in the country reached to 46%.
5. International Help
The United Nations World Food Programme has promised to provide 50,000 tonnes of
wheat flour to Lebanon. The world leaders have pledged more than 300 million USD
support for the Lebanese people.
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114. Arunachal Pradesh Government forms panel to discuss autonomous

regions in the state
On August 14, 2020 the Arunachal Pradesh Government formed a committee under the
chairmanship of Deputy Chief Minister Chowna Mein to discuss possible solutions of the
Patkai Autonomous Council and Mon autonomous Region.

the regions under the Autonomous councils of Arunachal Pradesh are currently under the
Fifth Schedule of Indian Constitution. This does not provide special rights for the
indigenous communities as that of the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution. The
autonomous councils in the sates are demanding to include Arunachal under the sixth
schedule, to make the Arunachalees the owners of Natural resources rather than being
protectors. Also, the Sixth Schedule will enable legitimate ownership making the
indigenous communities self sufficient.
2. Sixth Schedule
The Sixth Schedule includes 10 autonomous district councils in 4 north eastern states.
They are Assam, Mizoram, Meghalaya and Tripura. It seeks to safeguard the rights of the
tribal population by forming Autonomous District Councils.
3. Bordoloi Committee
The Committee was formed by the Constituent Assembly. It was formulated to provide
limited autonomy to the tribal regions in the North-East. It was this committee that
framed the concept of Autonomous Administration Councils in India.
4. Autonomous Councils
There are 10 autonomous councils in the North East and 2 in Ladakh. They are as follows
5. Governor Powers
The Governors can organize and re-organize the autonomous districts. He can increase
or decrease the areas under the administration of the autonomous councils.
6. Powers of the Autonomous Councils

These Autonomous Councils can make laws on land management, forest management,
formation of village council, public health and sanitation, marriage, social customs,
mining, money lending, inheritance of property, village and town level policing.
115. PM Modi launches Optic Fibre Link connecting Lakshadweep Islands

with the mainland
On August 15, 2020, PM Modi announced the Optic Fibre Linking of Lakshadweep Islands
with the mainland during his address at the 74th celebrations of Independence Day.
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1. Highlights
The undersea Optical Fibre Cable link to be established between Lakshadweep and the
mainland is second in the country. The first of its kind was established between Chennai
and Port Blair.
2. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

The Chennai-Port Blair Optic Fibre Link is to be implemented at a cost of Rs 1,224 crores
in the Andaman Islands. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are important to mount
pressure on China. This is especially important at the current situation as India-China
border issues are becoming bitter. India expects China to make similar move in the
Indian Ocean Region as made in the Ladakh border. Therefore, it is preparing itself to
counter Chinese moves. This is being done by strengthening Defence Systems in the
islands by providing high speed network connenctivity.
3. Lakshadweep
Just like Andaman, the Lakshadweep also has its strategic importance. As India is
expanding its maritime horizons in both western and eastern sides of Indian Ocean, the
island has received increased attention. Also, with the new naval base Karwar (on the
west coast of India), the islands are to be used to strengthen India’s command in the
western Indian Ocean.
116. Naga Independence Day celebrated in Nagaland and Manipur
On August 14, 2020, the 74th Naga Independence Day was celebrated in the states of
Nagaland and Manipur.
1. Highlights
In Nagaland, the day was celebrated by the students by hoisting Naga National Flag.
Nagaland became a state in 1963. However, a section of Naga leaders are continuing
the movement claiming for sovereignty.
2. Nagaland Statehood Day

Nagaland celebrates its Statehood Day on December 1. The state was carved out of
Assam in 1963 as the 16th state of the country.
3. History
When India became independent from the British rule, the Nagas under the Naga
National Council wished to remain free. It conducted a Plebiscite in 1951 where 99.9%
voted for Naga independence. With this, the Nagas did not take part in the first and
second general elections that were held in 1952 and 1957 respectively.
4. Hydari Agreement
It was a nine-point agreement that was signed in Kohima in June 1947. Sir Akbar Hydari
was the then Governor of Assam. The agreement was signed between him and the
Nagas. According to the agreement, the following were agreed
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117. PM Modi launches Project Lion, Project Dolphin during I-Day
celebrations
On August 15, 2020, PM Modi launched Project Lion and Project Dolphin during his
speech at the 74th Independence Day celebrations.
1. Highlights
Project Lion is to involve conservation of Asiatic Lions. It will focus on habitat
development by engaging modern technologies. Also, the project is to address Human-
Wildlife conflict. It will involve local communities living closer to lion landscapes. The
Project will also provide livelihood opportunities to these people.
2. Asiatic Lion Conservation Project

It was launched during the first term of the current NDA Government. The Ministry of
Environment, Forest and Climate Change had approved the project for three years 2018-
21. A budget of Rs 97.85 crores was allocated.
3. Project Dolphin
Project Dolphin was launched to conserve and protect the Dolphins in the rivers and
oceans in the country. The project will conserve dolphins in aquatic habitat using
modern technology especially in anti-poaching activities.
4. Protection Status
The Gangetic Dolphins have been declared ‘Endangered’ under IUCN Red List of
Endangered Species. It has been listed under CITES Appendix-1.
5. Asiatic Lion Reintroduction Project

It is an initiative of Indian Government to safeguard Asiatic Lions from extinction. Under
the project, the Asiatic Lions are to be introduced in Kuno Wildlife Sanctuary in Madhya
Pradesh. Ths is because, the last Asiatic Lion population found in Gir National Park of
Guajrat are facing threats due to anthropogenic factors, epidemics and natural disasters.
August 16, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
118. M S Dhoni, Suresh Raina retire from International Cricket
Indian Cricket players M S Dhoni and Suresh Raina announced their retirement from
International Cricket. This means that they shall still play for games conducted within
India.
1. About M S Dhoni
M S Dhoni is 39-year old and was a world cup winning captain. He announced his
retirement through an Instagram post. He last played for the Indian cricket team during
India’s 2019 ICC World Cup semi-final against New Zealand.
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2. Suresh Raina
He was the first Indian to hit T20 century. He was the part of the Indian team winning
2011 world cup. He was the first Indian player and second in the world after Chris Gayle
to hit 100 sixes in IPL.
3. When can a Cricketer retire from game?

There is no age limit for a cricketer to retire from the game. They are selected based on
their fitness and their ability to playing conditions. They can retire from the game at
their will.
119. Facts Box: Israel-UAE Peace Pact
The United Arab Emirates became the first Gulf country to sign peace agreement with
Israel recently. The Agreement is also called Abraham Accord. Israel is the third Arab
country after Egypt (1979) and Jordan (1994) to sign the peace agreement.
1. Highlights
The name Abraham has been provided to honour three major Abrahamic religions
Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The deal has stopped Israel annexation of West Bank.
The West Bank is sandwiched between Israel and Jordan. According to the agreement,
Israel and UAE will sign agreements in coming weeks on direct flights,
telecommunications, tourism, energy, security and health care. Also, the countries are to
fight COVID-19 together.
2. Significance
The deal was announced at the US White House. Both UAE and Israel are close allies of
the United States. The deal now strengthens opposition to Iran. Iran is the main threat in
the region according to all the three powers US, Israel and UAE.

The West Bank was captured by Jordan at the end of Arab-Israeli war. Later in 1967,
Israel again snatched it back in 1967. During the 1967, Israel was defeated by the
combined forces of Syria, Egypt and Jordan.
4. Background
The deal now halts the annexation of West Bank by Israel.
5. Palestine
The Palestinians reject and denounces the deal. They seek for a two-state solution. The
deal would make implementation of Two State Solution more challenging.
6. Two State Solution

It is based on UN resolution of 1947 that proposed two states. One is where the Jews
constituted the majority and the other is where the Palestinian Arabs constituted the
majority population.
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7. Hamas
Hamas, according to the United States is an Islamist militant group that runs the Gaza
Strip. The group views the deal as “stabbing in the back by UAE”.
8. Geopolitics in the region

The agreement will now bring all the Sunni nations in an anti-Iran alliance with Israel.
The allies of Iran in the region include Lebanon, Syria and Iraq. The Hezbollah in Lebanon
are backed by Iran and so are the Houthis in Yemen.
120. What is Atal Innovation Mission Artificial Intelligence Step Up

Module?
The NITI Aayog, Atal Innovation Mission along with the collaboration of NASSCOM
launched the “ATL AI Step Up Module”. It was launched on the eve of independence-day.
The module is to drive AI education and innovation to next levels in schools all over
India.
1. Highlights
The module is considered as the successor of AI Base module that was launched in
February 2020. The AI step up module provides “Learn it yourself” modules for those
who wish to expand their knowledge base after learning the basics of Artificial
Intelligence. Also, there is no background is required to learn the module.
2. Background
India needs to harness its potential to create an innovation-led growth in order to
become a 5-trillion USD economy. With this objective, NITI Aayog is setting up Atal
Tinkering Labs at school levels. These labs focus on Artificial Intelligence, Computational
thinking, Internet of Things, advanced robotics, design thinking. It is important to focus
more towards Artificial Intelligence as it is the driver of fourth industrial revolution.
3. National Education Policy, 2020

The National Education Policy points out that around 5 crore children are currently in
elementary schools and do not have foundational skills. Children from poor families are
facing lack of health care and nutrition on one side and absence of supportive learning
environment on the other side. With digital education growing at faster rate, these
modules can help reach advanced technologies to the unreachable poor children living
in the rural.
4. Atal Innovation Mission

The Mission has two main functions. It includes promotion of entrepreneurship through
self employment and talent utilisation under which innovators are to be supported to
become successful entrepreneurs. Also, the mission provides a platform to generate
innovative ideas.
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121. Facts Box: India ranks first in Organic Farming
The Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare recently announced that India ranks first
in Organic Farming. Also, India ranks ninth in terms of areas under Organic Farming.
1. Highlights
Sikkim was the first state in the world to become completely organic. The other states
that have similar targets include Uttarakhand and Tripura.
2. Measures by India to boost Organic Farming

India has launched two schemes to assist farmers in adopting organic farming. Also, the
Agro-Export Policy, 2018 gave simultaneous thrusts to organic farming. The schemes are
as follows
3. Organic Exports
The main Organic Exports from India include sesame, flax seeds, soya bean, medicinal
plants, tea, rice and pulses. These products contributed to 50% organic exports in 2018-
19 touching Rs 5151 crores.
4. Logos of Organic products

In India, the organic foods should carry logos such as
5. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana

The scheme covers an area of about 7 lakh hectares. It brought about 16 Farmer
Producer Organizations cultivating 80,000 hectares of land.
6. Other Key Measures

 Under One District One Produce concept GoI is trying to develop more clusters of organic
produce
 Jaivik Kheti Portal was launched. Here farmers shall sell all of their organic produce promoting
organic farming globally.
 Webinars are conducted by the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) on Organic
Farming.
7. Budget Allocation for Organic Farming

The 2020-21 Budget reduced the incentives being provided to chemical fertilizers in
order to promote organic farming. The 2020-21 Budget allocated the following for the
schemes related to organic farming
122. Group of Ministers: E-Way Bill for Intra-State Movement of Gold
A high-level ministerial panel of Goods and Services Tax council recently favoured e-way
bill for intra state movement of gold. It will help track movement of gold under tax
evasion and smuggling.
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1. Key Highlights
The E-Way bill is an electronic challan that shows that tax has been completely paid
before goods are moved from one place to another. This includes within the states and
also outside the states. The bill is required to carry consignment of goods of value
exceeding Rs 50,000. This can be greater for intra-state activities.
2. Significance
E-Way bills have the ability to unify Indian markets. According to Road Transport and
Highways Reports, a truck spends 20% of its time on inter-state check points. This is
reduced by E-Way bills. The other benefits of E-Way bills are as follows
3. Concerns of E-Way billing system

Though India is trying to reach internet connectivity to the remotest areas, there are still
regions that lag internet connectivity. In these regions, E-Way billing is highly
challenging as there are limited points where e-way bills can be generated here.
Different States in India have different opinions in implementing E-Way billing system.
There are unaddressed technological glitches in generating E-Way bills.
123. Taiwan purchases F-16 jets from US
Taiwan recently signed an agreement to buy 66 of the latest F-16 jets from the US. This
is expected to escalate the tensions between US and China further.
1. Highlights
This is the first purchase of Taiwan from the US since 1992. Though the deal was
planned and talks were finalised a year ago, the move is likely to be denounced by
Beijing. The sale of jets to Taiwan is to be completed by the end of 2026.
2. World Health Organization

Recently, the United States wrote to 60 nations to gather their support to include Taiwan
in World Health Organization. This includes Britain, Canada, Germany, Thailand,
Australia and Saudi Arabia. Till date Taiwan is not a part of WHO due to the pressure
from China. This created tensions between China and US. With India taking over the
chairmanship of WHO in 2020, US is trying to bring in Taiwan.
3. Background
China claims Taiwan under its “One China” policy. Taiwan has a large trade surplus with
China and is the top trading partner of China. Taiwan is self-governed and never formally
declared independence from the Chinese mainland.
4. One-China Policy
One China policy says that any country wishing to establish diplomatic relations with
China should agree to the fact that there is only “One China”. Also, the country should
sever all its formal ties with Taiwan.
5. India-Taiwan
India and Taiwan have been cooperating in various fields. India refused to endorse “One
China” policy since 2010.
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6. F 16 fighter jet
The fighter jets were approved in 1976. The US has built more than 4,600 aircrafts since
the approval.
124. PM Modi to inaugurate Atal Tunnel by September 2020
On August 15, 2020, the Himachal Pradesh Chief Minsiter Jai Ram Thakur announced
that Prime Minister Narendra Modi will inaugurate “Atal Tunnel” by the end of September
2020.
1. Highlights
The tunnel is being built under Rohtang Pass in the Pir Panjal range on the Leh-Manali
highway. It is located at 3,100 metres above the sea level. The length of the tunnel is 8.8
kilo metres. The route is important as it feeds military supplied to the military sub sector
that are located in Siachen Glacier and Aksai Chin.
2. History
The proposal of the tunnel dates back to 1860. It was proposed for the first time by the
Moravian Mission. After 139 years, PM Vajpayee brought in the proposal again. In 2000,
the tunnel construction was estimated to be 5 billion USD. In 2002, the Border Road
Organization was entrusted to construct the tunnel. It was initially named as Rohtang
tunnel. Later in 2019, PM Modi renamed it as Atal Tunnel.
3. Challenges
There are more than 46 avalanche sites on approaches to the tunnel. The most
challenging task in constructing the tunnel was that the excavation. The excavation of
the tunnel was done from both ends. However, the pass closes during winters and hence
the excavation was done only from south portal in winters.
4. Keylong Railway Station

The Keylong Railway station located on the Leh-Manali Highway was the first under
tunnel railway station in India.
5. Rohtang Pass
The pass connects Kullu valley and the Lahaul and Spiti Valleys of Himachal Pradesh.
The pass lies on the watershed between Chenab and Beas rivers.
6. Border Road Organization

The BRO constructs and maintains the roads in Indian borders. It operates under the
Ministry of Defence and the officers working under the organization are selected
through UPSC. The operations of BRO are spread across Bhutan, India, Tajikistan,
Myanmar and Afghanistan.
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125. BRICS Anti-Drug Working Group held
The fourth session of Anti-Drug Working Group was held virtually. All the member
countries of the group such as India, Brazil, Russia, China and South Africa participated
in the session.
1. Highlights
The group reaffirmed their commitments towards the Anti-Drug Conventions. The
meeting focused on misuse of technologies for drug trafficking. During the meet India
stressed on the common points that emerged during discussions including need for real
time information sharing.
2. Anti-Drug Action Plan 2020-21

On the occasion of International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (June 26),
Anti-Drug Action Plan for 2020-21 was launched by the Ministry of Social Justice and
Empowerment. The plan includes identification of drug dependent population, awareness
generation programme, focus on treatment facilities. The action plan includes the
following
3. National Survey on Extent and Pattern of Substance Use

The survey was conducted by Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment in 2018. The
anti-Drug Action plan 2020-21 was framed based on this survey. The following are the
key features of the survey
4. BRICS Summit
The 11th BRICS Summit was held in 2019 under the theme “Economic Growth for an
Innovative future”. The BRICS groupings believe that there is an urgent need to
strengthen World Trade Organization, United Nations and International Monetary fund.
126. USFDA clears simple Saliva test called “SALIVA DIRECT” to detect
COVID-19
On August 16, 2020, the United States Food and Drugs Administration authorised the
emergency use of saliva based diagnostic test for COVID-19. This is to be a game
changer as it provides the results rapidly. The testing method has been named “SALIVA
DIRECT”
1. Highlights
Saliva Direct testing method is simpler and is less expensive as compared to traditional
method called the Nasopharyngeal swabbing. The test method is to be used to test
players and staffs in National Basketball Association.
2. About Saliva Testing

The testing is performed from a spit sample of individuals. The traditional PCR is then
performed on the saliva sample. It pairs well with LAMP (Loop Mediated Isothermal
Amplification) that was used to detect outbreaks of Zika and Ebola in poor countries.
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3. When can Saliva Testing used?
Saliva testing can be used in the following cases
4. Success Rate of Saliva Testing

The detection of COVID-19 from saliva is less sensitive as compared to that of nasal
swabs. Of the 39 people that tested positive through nasal swab, 87% tested positive on
saliva.
5. LAMP Testing
The LAMP Testing is deployed in poor countries as it requires less equipment and power
than that of the PCR. It can also be used to COVID-19.
6. LAMP as Testing tool for COVID-19 in India

The Indian scientists have discovered N1 STOP LAMP tests to diagnose COVID-19. It
helps to fast track COVID-19 testing. It gives test results in 20 minutes. The test is
performed by a small portable machine that can detect COVID-19 samples collected
through nasal swabs.
127. August 16: Death Anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee
On August 16, 2020, India commemorated death anniversary of Atal Bihari Vajpayee. PM
Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah paid respect to the former Prime Minister. He served as
the Indian Prime Minister for three terms. He served for 13 days in 1996, then for a
period of 13 months between 1998 and 1999 and full term between 1999 and 2004.
1. About Vajpayee
He was elected 10 times to Lok Sabha in over five decades. Also, he was elected to
Rajya Sabha twice. In 1977, he served as the Minister of External Affairs in the cabinet of
PM Moraji Desai.
2. Independence Movement
Vajpayee was a part of the youth wing of Arya Samaj movement and served as its
secretary in 1944. He joined the RSS (Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh) in 1939. RSS did
not participate in Quit India Movement in 1942. However, Vajpayee joined the movement
and was arrested for 24 days.
3. Major contributions
Vajpayee played major role for India to become Nuclear power. He also had major role in
India-Pakistan relations.
4. Nuclear Tests
India conducted five nuclear tests in Pokhran desert in 1998. Vajpayee had major role in
the success of these tests. France endorsed that India had right to defensive nuclear
power. The other countries such as USA, Japan, Canada, European Union and Britain
imposed sanctions.
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5. Lahore Summit
Vajpayee pushed for full-scale peace process with Pakistan. He inaugurated the Delhi-
Lahore bus service in 1999.
6. Kargil War
India fought and won the Kargil War against Pakistan when Vajpayee was the prime
minister. In 1999, the Indian Army launched Operation Vijay after the local Kashmiri
shepherds reported non-uniformed Pakistani soldiers and militants in the Kashmir valley.
Around 500 Indian soldiers were killed in three month long war.
August 17, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
128. Defence Minister approves proposal to expand NCC in 173 border

areas and coastal districts
On August 16, 2020, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved a major Expansion
Scheme. Under the scheme, the National Cadet Corps (NCC) is to be expanded to 173
border areas and coastal districts. Around 100,000 new cadets are to be inducted.
1. Highlights
With the deployment of NCC, the border areas are to get trained manpower for disaster
management. Also, the youth in the area will get skill trainings to make their career in
armed forces. Under the Expansion Scheme, the NCC programme is to be introduced in
more than 1,000 schools and colleges located in the border areas. One-third of the
deployed NCC personnel are to be girls.
2. Background
During his address at the 74th Independence Day celebration, PM Modi announced that
around 1 lakh NCC cadets from bordering areas are to extended for the youths in the
region.
3. National Cadet Corps (NCC)

It is the youth wing of the armed forces. The headquarters of NCC is located in New
Delhi. It is a tri-service organization that comprises of army, navy and air force. Under
NCC, the youths of the country are provided basic military training in parades and small
arms. However, there is no liability for active military service after course completion.
4. Motto of NCC is
Motto: Unity and Discipline
5. NCC Girls Division

This was raised in 1948 to give equal opportunities to school and college girls.
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6. Significance
The NCC cadets also participate in war. During Bangladeshi-Pakistani war of 1971 and
Indo-Pakistani war of 1965, NCC cadets were the second line of defence. During the war,
the cadets organized camps to assist ordnance factories and also supplied arms and
ammunition that were used to capture enemy paratroopers.
129. NTPC develops infrastructure for increased use of Fly Ash
The National Thermal Power corporation developed infrastructure at Rihand project in

Uttar Pradesh to transport fly ash to cement plants at cheaper cost.
1. Highlights
The infrastructure is being developed to help NTPC achieve its goal of 100% utilisation of
fly ash from power plants. This will enable power plants to upgrade the utilisation of fly
ash. In the year 2019-20, around 44.33 million tonnes of fly ash were utilised. This is
73.31% of fly ash generated.
2. Fly Ash
Fly ash is a coal combustion product.
3. Background
In 1999, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (EFOCC) issued notification
in 1999 to ensure 100% utilisation of fly ash. It was further amended in 2003 and 2009.
However, it was missed by almost 40%. In 2015, GoI fixed December 31, 2017 as revised
deadline to achieve 100% utilisation. Still, till date only 55.7% of fly ash is being used.
4. Fly Ash usage

In India, Ultra High Volume Fly ash Concrete is developed for widespread use. Fly ash is
currently used in low to moderate strength concrete. Also, it is used in cement. Fly ash is
also used in bricks replacing normal clay bricks.
5. Rulings on fly ash

In 2016, the fly ash notification issued by the Ministry of EFoCC made it mandatory for
the construction projects located within 300 km of a thermal power plant to use fly ash
products. Also, the red clay bricks located within 300 km shall convert into fly ash bricks.
6. Legislation
The rulings of fly ash were issued under Environment Protection Act, 1986. Also,
according to the Environment Protection Rules, 1986, the Central Government shall
issue notification whenever if feels that prohibition of a process or operation should be
imposed to protect the environment.
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130. Mauritius Oil Spill: India deputes 10-member specialist team under
Mission SAGAR
On August 16, 2020, India sent 30 tonnes of technical equipment and material to
Mauritius. The country is fighting to contain an oil spill that occurred in its pristine south-
east coast.
1. Highlights
India has deployed a 10-member Indian Coast Guard team under Mission SAGAR to
contain oil spill. Earlier in August 2020, a Japanese bulk carrier struck a coral reef coast
of Mauritius that leaked 100s of tonnes of oil in the environment sensitive regions of
Mauritius.
2. Mission Sagar
Mission SAGAR is Security Growth for All in the Region. It was launched in 2015 to
deepen economic and security cooperation with maritime neighbours.
3. Need for Mission SAGAR

 Mission SAGAR provides opportunity to secure transportation of 80% of global trade.
 The seabed in the Indian Ocean Region provides 32% of global supply of hydrocarbons. The
Mission will help protect the resources.
 The Mission helps to check Chinese influence in the Indian Ocean Region.
4. Significance
The relevance of the mission is seen in conjunction with other policies of India as follows
5. COVID-19
In May 2020, around 580 tonnes of essential medicines, Ayurvedic medicines and food
supplies were sent to Mauritius under Mission SAGAR. The other countries where the
relief supplies were supplied under the mission included Male, Comoros, Seychelles,
Madagascar. INS Kesari was deployed in the mission.
131. DRDO developed Anti-Drone System deployed in 74th I-Day

celebrations
As the Prime Minister Modi addressed the country at the Red Fort, DRDO (Defence
Research Development Organization) anti-drone system was deployed for PM security.
1. Highlights
The anti-drone system can detect micro drones up to 3 kilo metres. It uses LASER to
bring down target up to 1-2.5 kilo metres. It can detect and identify drone threats.
2. Unmanned Aircraft System Rules, 2020

The rules were issued by Ministry of Civil Aviation in June 2020. This was because, the
use of drones have increased due to COVID-19 lock down. The key rules are as follows
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3. Drone Regulation 1.0
This was issued by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation in 2018. According to these
rules, a drone can be operated only after seeking permission through Digital Sky
Platform
3.1. Digital Sky Platform

The platform is a drone traffic management system that facilitates registration and
licensing of drones. It operates giving instant clearance to operators for every flight. The
entire process shall be done online.
132. UK launches 3 million pounds Innovation Challenge Fund in India
On August 17, 2020, the United Kingdom launched 3 million pounds of Innovation
Challenge Fund in India. The funds were launched to support Indian scientists in
industries and academia to tackle COVID-19 and climate change.
1. Highlights
The funds invite innovators to connect to the Artificial Intelligence Clusters in Karnataka
and future mobility cluster in Maharashtra. The initiative will help to build on UK-India
Tech partnership.
2. What is the initiative?

The interested technocrats are required to submit two-page concept. The British High
Commission is to select the best of these projects and provide required funds.
3. Background
The aim of fund is to catalyse UK Industrial strategy, which is to address global
challenges. The grants are to be used to develop Tech Clusters that will break down the
barriers to growth.
4. Significance
India is trying to bring in as much funds into the country to indigenise the research
processes. The Innovation Challenge Fund is one such step. The fund will be used to put
knowledge resource of Indian scientists into action. It is to be noted that several talented
Indians are doing their research projects in foreign soil due to lack of funding.
5. Project Nirmanshree
On August 13, 2020, The European Union launched Project Nirmanshree for women
empowerment. The project aims to skill women in housing sector. It is to be
implemented in four districts of Odisha and Maharashtra.
6. Highlights
Under the project, the women are to be trained in different works in housing sector. The
total cost of the project is 9,49,694 Euros. 90% of the funds are provided by EU and
remaining 10% are to be issued by Habitat for Humanity India.
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133. World Tallest Pier Bridge in Manipur; 13 new Highway Projects in
Manipur
The Indian Railways is constructing world’s tallest pier bridge in the state of Manipur.
The bridge is 141 metres high. It has surpassed the record of 139 metres tall Mala-Rijeka
bridge in Montenegro, Europe.
1. Highlights
The bridge is a part of the 111 km long Jiribam-Tupul-Imphal railway line project. The
project is to have 45 tunnels. The 12th tunnel in the project will be the longest tunnel in
the North East.
2. About the bridge

The total length of the bridge is 703 metres. The piers that will hold the bridge are to be
constructed with hydraulic augers. The “Slip Form Technique” has been used to
construct the bridge.
3. Background
The Government of India is in the path of developing the North East in every possible
way. Several road and railway line projects, inland water way projects are being
launched to boost trade and connectivity in the region.
4. Act East Policy

The “Look East Policy” was launched by the former PM Mr Narasimha Rao in 1991. This
was later upgraded to Act East Policy in 2014 at the East Asia Summit held in Myanmar.
5. The Bridge and Act East Policy

The strategic location of Manipur is close to the East and South Asian countries. By
developing the transport infrastructure in the state, the trade and connectivity between
the state and the South East Asian countries shall be improved.
134. Karnataka to build Industrial Corridor between Bidar and Mysuru
On August 17, 2020, the Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister C N Ashwanthnarayan

announced that the State Government is to build an industrial corridor between Mysuru
and Bidar. This is being done to augment the development of commerce and industry in
the state.
1. Highlights
The projects will help Karnataka achieve its target of 35 lakh crore of GDP in next five
years. The State Government of Karnataka has launched several steps recently to boost
the development in the state. This includes Simplification of labour laws, APMC
amendment act and land reforms amendment act.
2. Industrial Corridors in India

An industrial corridor in India is a multi-modal transport service that will pass through
several states. The Industrial Corridors will provide effective integration between
industries and infrastructure leading to overall social and economic development.
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3. National Manufacturing Policy, 2011
The main objective of the policy is to improve the share of manufacturing sector in GDP
to 25%. It also aims to create 100 million jobs in a decade.
135. New COVID-19 strain with 10-times more infection rate detected in
Malaysia
Malaysia has recently detected a new COVID-19 strain that is 10 times more infectious.
The mutation of the virus is called DG14G.
1. Highlights
According to the Malaysian Government, the mutation was found in at least three of the
45 case. Also, it started from a restaurant owner who had returned from India. The
Government also reported that he breached his 14 day Home Quarantine.
2. What is D614G?
It is the official name given to the new mutated COVID-19 virus. It was first detected in
Europe. However, it is now being seen in different parts of the world and has been found
in Malaysia for the first time. The D614G is located within the virus protein that makes
up the spikes. These spike proteins are used by the virus to break into the human cells.
The mutation changes are found at the 614th position of the amino acids in the spike
proteins. It is between D (aspartic acid) and G (Glycine) and hence the name D614G.
3. Indian researchers have found 73 variants so far

The researchers from Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) have so far
found 73 new variants of COVID-19 in their three months of research.
4. What is mutation?
It is the change in structure of gene caused due to insertion deletion or rearrangement
of larger sections of genes. This does not mean that mutation should be anthropogenic.
Mutation also occurs naturally and mainly when a gene is passed on from one
generation to other.
5. WHO
According to WHO, one-third of COVID-19 samples show mutation. The WHO had earlier
reported that the increase in COVID-19 cases in Italy and New York might be
predominantly due to D614G.
6. Mutations in other viruses

COVID-19 virus is mutating very slowly. Similar mutations were also found in other
deadly viruses such as small pox, herpes, and Human Papillomavirus.
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136. MPEDA opens Quality Control Lab in Porbandar; India misses Sea
Food Export Target in 2019-20
On August 17, 2020, the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA)
opened a Quality Control Laboratory in Porbandar. The laboratory is to test seafood
processors and exporters.
1. Highlights
The laboratory is to test seafood processors and exporters to make sure their products
are safe according to international regulatory requirement. It is equipped with
equipment to analyse antibiotic residues and heavy metals such as lead, cadmium,
arsenic and mercury. These residues and metals are to be tested tuna, mackerel and
also histamine in fish.
1.1. Histamine
Histamine is a compound released by fish in response to allergy and inflammatory
reactions. It causes contraction of smooth muscle and dilation of capillaries.
2. Why in Gujarat?
Gujarat has low instances of antibiotic residues in seas foods. However, a number of
cephalopod consignments are rejected overseas due to the presence of heavy metals,
especially Cadmium.
3. Production of Sea Foods

According to Central Marine Fisheries Institute, Gujarat is second to Tamil Nadu in
marine fish landings. It contributed to 7.49 lakh tonnes in 2019.
4. India Sea Food Exports in 2019-20

In 2019-20, India Seafood Exports missed their 7 billion USD target. In 2019-20, India
shipped 1,289,651 tonnes of seafood. This was worth 6.68 billion USD. In 2019, India
exported sea foods of worth 6.73 billion USD.
5. China factor
China emerged as the largest seafood export destination for the year 2019-20. It
accounted to 25.55% of total sea food exports. The export of seafoods to China grew by
46.10% in quantity and 69.47% in value.
137. SWASTHYA Portal and ALEKH e-newsletter launched by Ministry of

Tribal Affairs
On August 17, 2020, the Ministry of Tribal Affairs launched Tribal Health and Nutrition
portal called “SWASTHYA”. Also, the ministry launched the “ALEKH” e-newsletter on
health and nutrition.
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1. About SWASTHYA
The portal is first of its kind. It provides information related to health and nutrition of
tribal population in India. It will also act as an integrated source of information about
research studies, innovative practices, case studies and best practices that were
collected from different parts of the country.
2. GOAL
GOAL is Going Online as Leaders. The programme aims to mentor 5000 tribal youths in
the country and enable them to become young leaders in their communities.
3. ALEKH E-Newsletter
The E-Newsletter is to be released on quarterly basis. It is to showcase the works of
different stakeholders involved in improving health and nutrition of tribal. This will help
to learn from each other’s successes and also from failures.
4. Background
The tribal population in India according to Census 2011 is 104 million. Most of the tribal
are living in Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal, Madhya Pradesh, Andaman
and Nicobar Islands, Maharashtra and also in North Eastern states.
August 18, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
138. International Solar Alliance to hold World Solar Technology Summit

for the first time
The International Solar Alliance will hold World Solar Technology Summit for the first
time on September 8, 2020. The summit aims to bring the world scientists and engineers
together to address the challenges to make energy affordable.
1. Highlights
With alliance being launched very recently, one and a half years back, it is already
implementing projects that are worth 1.4 billion USD. It is expected that the World Solar
Bank is to be placed in the ISA Assembly during the summit. The bank would be of the
size of 15 billion USD in next five years.
2. Solar Power in India

According to the Central Electricity Authority, the solar power generation in India stood
at 35 GW by July 2020. India has set an ambitious target of achieving 100 GW of solar
power by 2022.
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3. International Solar Alliance
It is an alliance of 121 countries that works to tap benefits of solar power and promote
clean energy applications. It was initiated by India. The countries between Tropic of
Cancer and Tropic of Capricorn are the main members of the alliance. The other
countries can enjoy the benefits from the alliance, however, cannot vote.
4. Key features of ISA

ISA is separate from United Nations. However, it was proposed at the Paris Climate
Change conference held in 2015. The GOI has allocated 5 acres of land to construct the
headquarters of ISA in Gurugram. Also, a sum of Rs 160 crores has been released to
meet day to day recurring expenditure and building infrastructure by 2022.
5. Assembly
The first ISA assembly was held in 2018. The ISA has outreached international
organizations such as Multilateral Development Banks, United Nations, Development
Finance Institutions, etc.
139. India-Nepal agree to hasten India-aided Development Projects
On August 17, 2020, India and Nepal agreed to speed up India-aided Development
Projects. This is being done amidst China’s continuous efforts by China to draw
Kathmandu into its sphere of influence by providing infrastructure projects and loans at
low rates.
1. Highlights
The discussions were held between Indian Ambassador to Nepal, Vinay Kwatra and his
Nepalese counter part Shanker Das Bairagi. Also, the Indian and Nepalese prime
ministers held a short discussion while the latter telephoned the former to wish him on
India’s 74th Independence Day.
2. About the discussions

The leaders discussed about the progress of development projects in the last one year.
This included reconstruction of earthquake damaged houses in the districts of Gorkha,
Nuwakot, operationalization of cross border petroleum pipeline (Motihari-Amlekhgunj),
High Impact Community Development Projects, Integrated Check Post at Biratnagar.
3. India-Nepal Oversight Mechanism

It was set up in 2016 when PM Modi visited Nepal.
4. Background
The relations between India and Nepal strained in 2015-16 due to new constitution of
Nepal. This was because the new constitution did not provide with the same political
rights to Madhesis. Tharus and Janjatis.
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5. China-Nepal
China has broadened its ties with Nepal lately. It promised a trans-Himalayan railroad
link and also increased its air connectivity with Nepal. Also, China waived financial
assistance of 500 million USD to Nepal. All these measures were announced when the
Chinese President Xi Jing Ping visited Nepal in October 2019.
140. 13th India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting held virtually
On August 17, 2020, India and UAE held their 13th Joint Commission Meeting virtually.
1. Highlights
The five sub-committees from India and UAE participated in the meeting. This included
the following
2. Finance Ministerial Meet

On the sidelines of India-UAE Joint Commission Meeting, Finance Minister Nirmala
Sitaraman held a bilateral meeting with her UAE counterpart. The minister has sought
for Rs 111 trillion of investment from UAE for the National Infrastructure Pipeline
projects.
3. India-UAE Trade
The bilateral trade between India and UAE was 60 billion UAE in 2019-20. This has made
UAE the third largest trading partner of India after China and US. Also, UAE is the second
largest export destination for India.
4. India-UAE Cooperation
The Cooperation between India and UAE strengthened after PM Modi visited UAE in
2015. This was the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to UAE after 24 years. This
renewed the interests of the countries under Link West Policy.
5. Link West Policy

The policy was introduced by PM Modi in 2014-15. The policy resulted in increased
interaction with the Gulf Cooperation Council countries. The following are the nine-point
agenda of Look West Policy
141. PM Modi reviews Multi-Modal Connectivity of Economic Zones

Project
On August 17, 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting to review
preparations for National Master plan on Multi-modal Connectivity of Economic Zones
Project. This will boost infrastructure, productivity, economic progress and opportunity
for youngsters.
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1. Special Economic Zones
A Special Economic Zone is a territory within national borders. The SEZs are created to
promote investment, generate employment opportunities and also administer the
economic areas in a better way.
2. SEZ Policy
The SEZ Policy was announced in 2000. The following are the key features of the policy.
The policy aimed to attract huge foreign investment in the country. The policy was
reviewed in 2018 by a committee under the chairmanship of Baba Kalyani. The key
recommendations of the committee are
3. SEZ in India
There are more than 230 SEZs that are operational in India. Of these, 65% of them are
located in Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Maharashtra. In 2018-
19, around 20 lakh jobs were created through the SEZs in the country. In 2017-18, the
exports from SEZs have grown to about 13% as compared to that of 2016-17.
4. SEZ Act, 2005

The SEZs are established in India under the legal framework provided by the act. The
major objectives of the act are as follows
142. CAMPA Funds to be used for Plantation drives and afforestation

alone
On August 18, 2020, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar held a meeting with 24 state
forest ministers. During the meeting, the minister announced that the CAMPA funds shall
be used only for plantation drives and afforestation. Also, the forest-based devolution
funds are to be increased from 7% to 10%.
1. Highlights
CAMPA is Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority. The
Minister has directed 80% of CAMPA funds towards afforestation and plantation drives.
The funds were used to pay salaries to forest officials and infrastructure acquisition.
2. CAMPA Funds
The forest lands shall be diverted for non-forest produce such as mining, construction of
dams and other developmental activities. The money paid by the developers that razed
the forest land is called Compensatory Afforestation Fund. These funds are managed by
CAMPA. They are also called CAMPA funds
3. Background
India has a target to create a carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide by
2030. In order to achieve the target, it is essential to increase afforestation and
plantation drives.
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4. Nagar Van Scheme and CAMPA
The scheme was announced n World Environment Day (June 5), 2020. It aims to develop
200 urban forests in the country in the next five years. The finances of the scheme are
to be used for CAMPA.
143. Dwarf Planet Ceres of Solar System is now an Ocean World
There are five dwarf planets in the solar system. They are Pluto, Eris, Haumea,
Makemake and Ceres. The NASA researchers have now discovered that the Ceres has an
ocean world.
1. Highlights
Ceres is found between Mars and Jupiter. According to the research, Ceres looks to be a
remnant ocean world. Also, Ceres has a brine reservoir that is located 40 km deep and is
100s of miles wide. This makes the dwarf planet water rich.
2. Hygiea
There are contradictions if Hygiea is a dwarf planet or an asteroid. According to the
observations made under European Space Organization telescope SPHERE, Hygiea shall
be considered as dwarf planet. This is because it satisfied the main four conditions of a
dwarf planet set by International Astronomical Union
3. Ceres Exploration
The Ceres was first spotted in 1801 by Giuseppe Piazzi. He assumed that Ceres was the
missing planet between Jupiter and Mars. However, it was clarified as dwarf planet in
2006.
4. The Dawn Mission of NASA

The mission was launched in 2007. It orbited two Ceres and Vesta. In 2011 it became the
first spacecraft to orbit Vesta. In 2015, it became the first spacecraft to orbit Ceres.
144. SC Judgement on PM CARES Funds
On August 18, 2020, the Supreme Court of India pronounced its judgement on PM-CARES
funds. According to the judgement, the apex court refused to direct the centre to
transfer the contributions made under PM Cares Funds towards National Disaster
Response Fund.
1. Highlights
The PM Cares Funds was set up by the central government as a public charity trust with
the aim of dealing with emergency posed by COVID-19. A Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
was filed at the Supreme Court by an NGO to seek to transfer the PM CARES Funds to
National Disaster Response Funds (NDRF).
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2. Judgement
The SC held that the organizations are free to contribute to NDRF and there are no
prohibition to such contributions. The court pronounced that as PM-CARES funds was
established as a public charitable fund, no direction can be issued by the court to
transfer the funds to NDRF.

GoI had brought in COVID-19 pandemic under National Disaster Management Act, 2005.
COVID-19 was declared “Notified Disaster”. This was mainly to help the State
Governments managing their funds and guide them in their counter measures towards
COVID-19.
4. Why was COVID-19 declared a notified disaster?

This was done for the purpose of providing assistance to the states under SDRF (State
Disaster Relief Funds). THE SDRF was established under the Disaster Management Act,
2005. The Central Government under the act shall contribute 75% of the SDRF
allocation. However, the funds can be used by the states only for disasters. Thus, COVID-
19 was declared as a notified disaster.
145. Facts Box: National Cyber Security Policy, 2020 soon
During his speech at the 74th Independence Day celebrations, PM Modi announced that
GoI is to unveil a new National Cyber Security Policy, 2020 soon. It envisages to create
secure cyber space in India and is to be ready by the end of 2020.
1. Highlights
Currently, India is operating under National Cyber Security Policy, 2013.The 2020 policy
will run for five years. With Chinese apps being banned already, the new policy is
expected to ban more.
2. Cyber Security in India

There are 36 central bodies in India to look after cyber issues in the country. Every
organization has its own CERT (Computer Emergency Response Team) and a reporting
structure. The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology has joined hands with
National Centre of Excellence to accelerate cybersecurity in India and make it an
attractive destination to invest in cyber technologies.
3. Background
There is an urgent need in India to secure the digital economy. Digital Economy in India
contributes to 14% to 15% of its total economy. This is expected to rise to 20% by 2024.
There is an urgent need in the country to upgrade cyber security strategy.
4. Need
India needs to build a strong National Cyber Security Strategy for the following reasons
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146. Satya Pal Malik appointed as Governor of Meghalaya
On August 18, 2020, Satya Pal Malik was appointed as the Governor of Meghalaya. He
replaced Tathagata Roy. Mr Malik served as Governor of Goa previously.
1. Satya Pal Malik

Malik served as the Governor of Jammu and Kashmir in 2018-19. It was during his tenure
that the constitutional decision to abrogate Article 370 was implemented.
2. Governor
The governor appointment, powers and his office holdings are discussed in Article 153 to
Article 162 in Indian constitution. Governor is the constitutional head of the state. He has
“Dual Capacity”, that is, as the constitutional head of the state and also the
representative of the centre.
3. Termination of the Governor

The term of a Governor is for five years. However, he shall be terminated for following
reasons
4. Discretionary Powers of Governor

The following are the discretionary powers of Governor
147. Atal Rankings of Institutions on Innovative Achievements, 2020

(ARIIA 2020)
On August 18, 2020, Atal Rankings of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA),

2020 was released. The rankings were announced by Vice President Venkaiah Naidu.
1. Highlights
The Vice President announced the top ten institutes in public funded and five institutes
in private and self-reliance categories. IIT Madras emerged as the best institute under
the institute of national importance category.
2. Rankings
The institutions were ranked as follows
3. Categories
The ARIIA, this year, has introduced special prize for women higher educational
institutions. The other categories of the ranking include
4. Indicators of the rankings

The major indicators of the rankings are innovations in governance of institution,
innovative learning methods and courses, technology transfer and commercialisation,
intellectual property generation, promotion and supporting entrepreneurship
development, awareness activities that aim in promoting idea generation and
innovation, support innovations and start ups, expenses spent and revenue generated.
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5. Background
ARIIA, 2020 was launched by Ministry of Education. It is to be noted that the Ministry of
Human Resources and Development was renamed to Ministry Education. This step was
taken when the GoI unveiled National Education Policy, 2020.
August 19, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
148. Dhanwantari Rath: Ayurveda at doorsteps of Delhi Police Families
On August 18, 2020, a Memorandum of Understanding was signed between All India
Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) and Delhi Police to extend Ayurveda preventive health
services to the residential colonies of Delhi Police. Under the initiative the health
services are to be provided at the door steps of Delhi Police families. The mobile unit
that is to provide the services are named “Dhanwantari Rath”.
1. Highlights
The Dhanwantari Rath launched is a continuation of the “Ayuraksha”. The Ayuraksha is a
joint venture of AIIA and Delhi Police. It aims to maintain health of frontline COVID-19
warriors. It mainly includes Delhi police personnel. Through Dhanwantari Rath, the
services are being extended to their families as well.
2. Significance
Ayurvedic heath care services are expected to reduce the incidence of diseases and also
reduce referrals to hospitals. This will reduce cost of health system. Also, it reduces
health expenditure of the patients.
3. Delhi Police
The Delhi Police Force operates under Ministry of Home Affairs and not under Delhi
Government.
4. DANIPS and DANICS

DANIPS is Delhi, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Dadra and Nagar Haveli
and Daman and Diu Police Service. It is administering the Union Territories and National
Capital Region of Delhi. They operate under Ministry of Home Affairs.
149. ADB approves 1 billion USD for Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit
System
On August 18, 2020, the Asian Development Bank approved 1 billion USD loan to
support construction of modern high-speed Delhi-Meerut Regional Rapid Transit System
in India. The system is first of its kind.
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1. Highlights
The system aims to help improve regional connectivity by establishing transit options
connecting Delhi and Meerut in Uttar Pradesh. The system is the first of the three priority
rail corridors in the integrated transport network of NCR Regional Plan 2020-21.
2. Other funds to the project

Apart from the ADB, the Indian Government will also 1.89 billion USD. The ADB’s Japan
Fund for Poverty Reduction will also support various activities. This includes provisions
for mobility aids such as wheel chairs for the differently abled, visual and hearing aids,
etc.
3. Background
Delhi accounts to 37% of population of the National Capital Region. Thus, the project will
help to decongest the city. It will also provide safe and reliable seamless travel.
4. Ashok Lavasa
On August 18, 2020, Ashok Lavasa resigned as Election Commissioner. He is to serve as
the Vice President of Asian Development Bank from September 2020. He is a 1980 batch
IAS officer.
5. Asian Development Bank

The bank was established in 1966. The headquarters of the bank is located in Manila,
Philippines. The bank was closely modelled to the World Bank. As of December 2019,
India has received a total of 47.96 billion loan from the bank. This is mainly for projects
such as transport, education, energy, finance, public sector management, agriculture,
rural development, health and ICT.
150. South Atlantic Anomaly: NASA confirms dent in the Earth’s

Magnetic field
The NASA Scientists have discovered a small but an evolving dent in the earth’s
magnetic field. The dent has been found over South America and South Atlantic Ocean.
It is an unusually weak spot and is called South Atlantic Anomaly.
1. Highlights
The Earth’s magnetic field acts as a protective shield to the planet as it repels and traps
charged particles from the sun.

The South Atlantic Anomaly allows the charged particles to dip closer to the earth’s
surface than normal. This knocks out onboard computers and is capable of interfering
with data collection from satellites. Thus, it is important to learn about the magnetic
dent and find solutions.
3. South Atlantic Anomaly

The South Atlantic Anomaly arises due to two features of the Earth’s core. They are tilt
of magnetic axis and the flow of molten metals within the outer core.
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4. Van Allen Belts
The Sun expels constant particles known as solar wind. When this solar material is
streamed across space and strikes the Earth’s magnetosphere, the space occupied by
the magnetic field of the earth can become trapped. This is held in two donut shaped
belts around the planet called Van Allen Belts.
5. European Space Agency

In May 2020, the Swarm Constellation Mission of the European Space Agency updated
the development of South Atlantic Anomaly. According to the mission, the earth’s
magnetic field has lost around 9% of its strength in 200 years. Between 1970 and 2020
the strength has dropped from 24,000 nanotesla to 22,000 nanotesla.
6. Swarm Constellation Mission

It was the first constellation of satellites of European Space Agency for Earth
Observation. The constellation consists of three satellites to measure magnetic fields of
the earth.
151. Drone based Surveillance System introduced in Indian Railways
On August 18, 2020, the Ministry of Railways announced that the drone-based
surveillance system is to be introduced for the purpose of railway security.
1. Highlights
The Railway Protection Force has so far procured drones at a cost of Rs 32 lakhs. The
drones are to be implemented in Central Railway, South Eastern Railway, Central
Railway and South Western Railway.
2. About the Drones

In order to implement the surveillance, the Ministry has procured Ninja UAV (Unmanned
Aerial Vehicle). The drones are capable of video streaming and real time tracking.
3. Drone Categories in India

The registration of drones of all categories are essential except for the nano category.
The categories of drones in India are as follows
4. Required Drone Equipment in India

India has specific requirement in regard to the type of feature a drone should have to fly
in Indian skies. This excludes Nano category. The features are GPS, anti-collision light,
return to home, ID plate, RFID, a flight controller with flight data logging capability.
5. National Drone Policy

The National Drone Policy of India came into effect on December 1, 2018. It is called the
Drone Regulations 1.0. The policy clarifies when, where and how drones can be operated
within India.
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6. Digital Sky Portal
It is an online platform for the drones to register. It is a part of an enforcement system
designated as No Permission No Takeoff. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation is the
authority responsible for providing permission to fly drones in Indian skies. The
permission is provided through a Unique Identification Number.
152. Swadeshi Microprocessor Challenge
On August 18, 2020, the Union Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad launched the “Swadeshi
Microprocessor Challenge”. The challenge is being launched to achieve self-reliance or
1. About the Challenge

The challenge aims to design microprocessors that has the ability to address global
challenges. These challenges mainly include technological glitches and security. The
prize money of the challenge is Rs 4.3 crores. Students and start up companies can
participate in the challenge.
2. SHAKTI and VEGA

The Centre for Development of Advance Computing (CDAC) and IIT Madras have
developed two micro-processors called SHAKTI and VEGA. The SHAKTI is a 32-bit
processor and VEGA is a 64-bit processor. The processors were developed using an Open
Source Architecture.
3. Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan

The scheme primarily focuses on “Vocal for Local” concept. It aims to enhance
manufacturing within the country in an innovative way. In order to achieve this, the
scheme intended to boost science and technology in the country. Hence, the following
were selected under Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan to fulfil respective missions
4. Impacts of Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan

The measures measure announced in Agriculture sector, especially One Nation One
Market will help India become food factory of the world. The MGNREGA infusion of Rs
40,000 crores will help in alleviating poverty in migrants. Rs 3 lakh crore collateral free
loan to MSMEs helped to kick start the financially starved sectors.
5. Conclusion
The current economic crisis is much like that of 1991 economic crisis that was a
harbinger of liberalisation, Globalisation and Privatisation. Similarly, the post COVID-19
has unprecedented opportunities to implement deficits adequately.
153. Uttar Pradesh Electronics Manufacturing Policy
On August 19, 2020, the Uttar Pradesh Government launched the Electronics
Manufacturing Policy. It aims to bring in Rs 40,000 crores of investment in five years.
The policy aims to develop Bundelkhand and Purvanchal regions.
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1. Highlights
The Uttar Pradesh Manufacturing Policy, 2017 was a big success and it achieved high
target of investment and employment generation. For instance, the Yamuna Expressway
region, Noida and Greater Noida were established as one of the emerging mobile
manufacturing hubs in the world. This is now attracting huge foreign investments to the
country.
2. Key Features of the Policy

 The policy will provide incentives to all units that are willing to set up their bases in Uttar
Pradesh.
 The State Government of Uttar Pradesh will promote MSME units in electronics
manufacturing. This is to be achieved through rental facilities on “Plug and Play” model.
 Under the policy, the State Government is to establish three Electronics Manufacturing
Clusters. These clusters will focus on medical equipment, consumer durables, mobile
manufacturing, defence, IT hardware.
 The State Government of Uttar Pradesh also envisages to create world class infrastructure
through Centres of Excellence, innovation and entrepreneurship in Electronic System Design
and Manufacturing.
 The investors will be eligible for capital subsidy of 15%. For the investments that are more
than Rs 1,000 crores, additional capital subsidy of 10% is to be provided.
3. National Policy on Electronics. 2019

This policy is currently under implementation at national level. It was proposed by the
Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology. The policy envisions India as a global
hub for Electronics System Design and Manufacturing. The policy focuses on Internet of
Things, 5G, Artificial Intelligence, virtual Reality, Robotics, Photonics, machine learning,
sensors. It proposes to create Sovereign Patent Fund.
154. National Cancer Registry Programme Report, 2020
On August 18, 2020, the Indian Council of Medical Research released “National Cancer
Registry Programme Report”, 2020. According to the report, the number of cancer
patients in India are to increase to 15.7 lakhs by 2025.
1. Highlights
The report also says that by the end of 2020, there will be 13.9 lakh cancer patients in
the country. The estimates of the report were made based on data retrieved from 58
hospital-based cancer registries and 28 population-based cancer registries made
between 2012 and 2016.
2. Key points of the report

 Tobacco related cancers are to account to 27.1% of India’s cancer burden in 2020. This
includes 19.7% of Gastrointestinal cancer and 5.4% of cervix cancer.
 The highest incidence of cancer in India was observed in North East region. According to the
report, one out of four persons between the age of 0 and 74 years in Arunachal Pradesh had
the possibility of developing cancer.
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3. Incidence of Cancer
Among men, cancers of stomach, lung, mouth and esophagus were common. On the
other hand, cancers of cervix and breast were common among women. The highest
incidence of breast cancer was observed in Chennai, Hyderabad, Delhi and Bengaluru.
4. Treatment to cancer
The report says that in India, a combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation
therapy are the major treatments. The cancer of cervix is usually treated with
chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Lung and Stomach cancers are treated with systemic
therapy.
5. National Cancer Registry Programme

The programme is being implemented by the Indian council of Medical Research. The
main objective of the project is to get an overview of cancer patients spread all over the
country. Also, it aims to calculate the estimates of cancer incidence in the country.
155. Union Cabinet approved National Recruitment Agency
On August 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to set up National Recruitment Agency.
The agency is to conduct Common Eligibility Test for Public Sector Banks and
Government Jobs.
1. Highlights
The Common Eligibility Test (CET) is to be conducted for non-gazetted posts in public
sector banks and central government. The score of CET is valid for three years.
Candidates qualifying the test can apply for higher level of examination.
2. Significance
The step of setting up National Recruitment Agency is a revolutionary reform. This is
because the agency is to bring in ease of recruitment and ease of selection. This in turn
will ease the protocols the candidates have to follow to get selected to a Government job
or a public sector bank.
3. Background
Currently, the exams for the public sectors banks and other agencies are conducted
through IBPS, Staff Selection Commission (SSC) and Railway Recruitment Board.
4. About National Recruitment Agency

The National Recruitment Agency was first proposed in Union Budget 2020. The agency
will provide great boon for economically deprived and also for youth in far flung areas,
women candidates facing difficulties traveling to distant cities and stay.
5. Funds Allocated
The Union Budget 2020-21 allocated Rs 1,517 crores for the National Recruitment
Agency. It is to be undertaken for a period of three years. These funds are not a part of
examination infrastructure to be set up in aspirational districts.
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156. ILO-ADB Report: 41 lakh Indian Youths to lose job due to COVID-19
The International Labour Organization and the Asian Development Bank prepared a joint
report on “Tackling COVID-19 Youth employment crisis in Asia and Pacific”. The report
says that around 41 lkahs of Indian youth are to lose their job due to COVID-19 crisis.
1. Highlights
The report prepared jointly by the international organizations say that the major
percentage of job loss are to be faced by workers belonging to farm and construction
sector.

 Pakistan is to lead in youth losing jobs followed by India in the Asia and Pacific regions.
 The unemployment rate in India is to increase to 32.5%. However, of all the countries in the
region, Sri Lanka is to face the maximum unemployment at the rate of 37.8%
 The youth of the age 15 to 24 years are to be hit harder than the adults.
 In India, three-quarters of internships and two-thirds of firm-level apprenticeships were
completely disrupted.
3. Asia and the Pacific Region in 2019

In 2019, the unemployment in the region was 13.8%. Four out of every five young
workers were engaged in informal employment. Also, one in four young workers were
living in conditions of moderate poverty.
4. How are youth affected by COVID-19 crisis?

According to the report, the youths in the region are affected in the following ways
5. Solutions recommended
The report recommended the following solutions to help reduce unemployment of the
youths
August 20, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
157. Framework for Authorisation of Pan-India Umbrella Entity for Retail

Payments released by RBI
On August 20, 2020, the Reserve Bank of India released Framework for Authorisation of
Pan-India Umbrella Entity for retail payments.
1. Key Features
 The RBI will set up a new pan-India umbrella entity with a minimum paid-up capital of Rs 500
crores.
 The entity will set up, operate, manage new payment systems that comprises of ATMs,
Aadhaar based payments, label Point of Sales, remittance services. Also, it will develop
standards, payment methods and technologies related issues.
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 The authorisation is to be issued by the Board for Regulation and Supervision of Payment and
Settlement Systems. The directors of the board are to be appointed by the Apex bank.
2. Background
The entities are to be incorporated under Companies Act, 2013. Also, the entities are to
be authorised under Section 4 of Payment and Settlement Systems act, 2007.
3. Highlights of the entity

 The entities are eligible to apply as promoters of the new umbrella entity provided they are
owned and controlled by resident Indian citizens under the Foreign Exchange Management
Act, 1999.
 An entity holding paid up capital between 25% and 40% of umbrella entity will be deemed to
be a promoter.
 The promoter should make payment in advance, that is, 10% of minimum capital.
 The shareholding of the promoter shall be diluted to a minimum of 25% after 5 years of
business.
 A minimum net worth of Rs 300 crores is to be maintained at all times.
158. Union Cabinet: Three Airports redevelopment approved
On August 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved redevelopment of three airports in
Jaipur, Thiruvananthapuram and Guwahati. The projects are to be developed by Adani
Enterprises Limited.
1. Highlights
The Union Cabinet approved to provide Rs 1,070 crores to handle the redevelopment
projects. The three airports being developed are to be leased for operation,
management and development in public-private partnership.
2. Airport Authority of India (AAI)

The AAI was established under Airports Authority of India Act, 1994. An authority
established under an act passed by Parliament of India is a statutory body. An authority
established under the constitutional provisions is a constitutional body. Hence, Airport
Authority of India is a statutory body.
3. Airports Economic Regulatory Authority

The authority was established under Airports Economic Regulatory Authority Act, 2008.
The act was amended in 2019.
4. Background
It is important to fast track the development of ai traffic. This is because, the air traffic in
India is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 10%-11% till 2030-31.
5. Civil Aviation in India

The passenger traffic in India is expected to increase to 421 million in 2020. The travel
and tourism industry in India is to grow at 6.66%. Travel and Tourism is the major
contributor to aviation growth. Therefore, it is essential to develop civil aviation sector to
help in GDP growth of the country.
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159. National Commission on Population: India’s Population to be more

feminine in 2036
On August 19, 2020, the National Commission on Population submitted its report on
population projections for the period of 2011-36. The commission was set up by Ministry
of Health and Family Welfare. The report says that the sex ratio of the country is to
increase from 943 (2011) to 957 (2036). Sex Ratio is number of females per 1000 males.
1. Highlights
According to the report, the population of India is to reach 1.52 billion by 2036 with
reference to 2011. India’s population is expected to grow by 25% in 2036 as compared
to 2011.
2. Decline in Population Growth Rate

The report also says that the between 2011 and 2021, the population growth rate is to
decline to its lowest. Between 2011 and 2021, the population growth rate will be 12.5%.
It is to decrease further to 8.4% in 2021-31. By 2031, India will overtake China and will
be the most populous country in the world.
3. Migration
Between 2001 and 2011, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh were the major net-out migration
states. Also, these two states are to account for 34% population increase in the country
between 2011 and 2036. On the hand, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Delhi and Haryana had
positive in-migration
3.1. Uttar Pradesh

If it were a country, UP will be the eighth most populous. It will account to 30% of the
population increase.
3.2. Bihar
Bihar population is expected to increase by 42%
3.3. Other major states

The states UP, Madhya Pradesh, Bihar and West Bengal alone contribute to 54%
population growth.
3.4. Southern States

The southern states Karnataka, Kerala, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu is projected to
account to only 9% of population growth.
4. Fertility Rates
Bihar and UP also have the highest Total Fertility rates. The Total Fertility Rate of UP and
Bihar was 3.5 and 3.7 respectively. This was greater than the TFR of India which is 2.5.
5. Life Expectancy
The report predicts that life expectancy of men is to become 71 from 66 and 74 from 69.
Kerala will once again become an outperformer with life expectancy above 80 years for
women.
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6. Urban Population
The report projects that urban population in the country is to increase to 57% in 2036.
Around 31% of Indians were living in urban in 2011. This is to increase to 39% in 2036.
7. Census
Population of India was 1.21 billion according to Census 2011.
160. India attends World Conference of Speakers of Parliament
On August 19, 2020, the Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla attended the fifth World
Conference of Speakers of Parliament. The conference was organized by Parliament of
Austria and Inter-Parliamentary Union, Geneva with the support of United Nations.
1. Highlights
The Conference was conducted under the theme
2. Previous Conferences
 The first World Conference of speakers of parliament was held in 2000 in New York. The
participants along with the United Nations committed themselves to help address challenges
faced by the world community.
 The second conference was held in 2005 in New York. It aimed to bridge democracy gap in
international relations.
 The third conference was held in 2010 in Geneva. It was held on “Parliament in a world crisis:
Securing Global Democratic Accountability for the common good”.
 The fourth conference was held in 2015 on peace and development among democracies.
3. Inter-Parliamentary Union
The Union was established in 1889. The national parliaments of 178 countries are its
members. It has a permanent observer status in United Nations. The IPU promotes
institutional values, democratic governance. It also promotes working with
parliamentarians to respond to the needs and aspirations of the people.
4. Parliamentary reforms in India

In recent years, there are several ongoing debates regarding the declining standards of
Indian Parliament. This was also highlighted in the 15 point reform charter provided by
the Vice President Shri Venkaiah Naidu.
161. Swacch Survekshan 2020
On August 20, 2020, the results of Swachh Survekshan, 2020 were announced.
1. Highlights
For the fourth consecutive time, Indore, Madhya Pradesh bagged the cleanest city in the
country. It was followed by Surat of Gujarat and Navi Mumbai of Maharashtra.
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2. Background
Swachh Survekshan was first conducted in 2016. It rated 73 major cities. The second
survey was held in 2017 that included 434 cities. The third survey that was held in 2018
ranked 4,203 cities and the fourth survey was held in 2019. The 2019 survey was held
digitally. Thus, it made a record of first survey to be completed in a record time of 28
days.
3. Swachh Survekshan 2020

This year, for the first time, the GoI had integrated Swachh Survekshan League with the
survey. The league made cleanliness assessments throughout the year. The parameters
considered in the assessment were waste water treatment and reuse and faecal sludge
management.
162. India attends AINTT (ASEAN-India Network of Think Tanks)
On August 20, 2020, the External Affairs Minister S Jai Shankar attended ASEAN-India
Network of Think Tanks (AINTT). It was the sixth-round table conference between India
and AINTT.
1. Key Highlights
The External Affairs Minister emphasised on the following during the conference
2. ASEAN
ASEAN is Association of Southeast Asian Nations. It was established to promote social
and political stability in the post-colonial states of Asia-Pacific regions. The motto of
ASEAN is One Vision, One Identity, One Community. August 8 is observed as ASEAN Day.
3. India-ASEAN Summit
The sixteenth India-ASEAN Summit was held in November 2019 in Bangkok, Thailand.
Along with the summit, the other summits such as 14th East Asia Summit, 35th ASEAN
Summit and 3rd meeting of RCEP were also held.
4. India-Indonesia
The countries in the summit agreed to work on peace, security and prosperity. Also they
agreed to share a vision on maritime cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. This is highly
important for India in current situation. Since, India is expecting China to bring on similar
actions in the Indo-Pacific region as that of the Pangong Tso border issue, it is important
for India to strengthen its maritime ties with countries in the Indo-Pacific. Especially, with
countries that have similar border and maritime issues with China.
5. India-Thailand
India’s Act East Policy is complemented with Thailand’s Look West policy.
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163. India, Japan and Australia to launch “Supply Chain Resilience
Initiative” to counter China
The Supply Chain Resilience Initiative first proposed by Japan. The initiative aims to
reduce the dependency in China. Japan is to be joined by India and Australia. It is a
direct response to companies that are concerned about Chinese political behaviour and
disruption to supply chain.
1. Highlights
Japan had already approached the Indian Government about the initiative. With the
aggressive moves of China in the Line of Actual Control, India is to join the initiative.
2. Significance
With the initiative creating a rigid supply chain in the region, the resilience across Indo-
Pacific is to improve. The businesses now have started seeing India as a “hub for supply
chains”. Hence, Indian Government appears to have taken the call to become the part of
global supply chain and emerge as an alternative to China.
3. India-Japan-Australia
Their geographic locations value the triangular approach to Indo-Pacific Diplomacy. The
following are the key highlights of the trio’s steps in the Indo-Pacific countering China’s
actions
August 21, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
164. Rajasthan Government launches Indira Rasoi Yojna
Rajasthan Government has launched the ‘Indira Rasoi Yojna’ in order to pay special
tribute to the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi on his 76th birth anniversary on August
20. As the name suggests, Indira Rasoi is a scheme to provide nutritious food to poor
people in urban areas at affordable prices.
About Indira Rasoi Scheme

 Under the scheme, the state government will provide nutritious food to the people at Rs 8 per
meal. Each plate will be actually priced at Rs 20 but the government will pay a subsidy of Rs
12 per meal.
 Expected expenditure on the scheme is Rs 100 crore per year.
 A typical thali will contain 100 grams of vegetables, 100 grams of pulses, 250 grams of
chapati, and pickles.
 The food will be provided by 358 kitchens or Rasois that have been set up in 213 urban local
bodies across the state.
 The government also aims to make people eat their food with dignity by eating it in canteen;
arrangements will be done for the same. The starting target of the government is to feed
4.87 crore people in a year.
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 A special app has also been launched to check the quality of food being provided to the
people.
165. RBI unveils National Strategy for Financial Education 2020-2025
Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has launched the National Strategy for Financial Education
(NSFE) to be implemented for the period of next five years i.e. 2020 to 2025. This is the
second national strategy; the first NSFE was launched in 2013. NSFE 2020-25 has been
launched with an aim of achieving a financially aware and empowered India.
1. National Strategy for Financial Education 2020-2025- Key Points

 The bank came up with 5-Core Actions approach with this second national strategy.
 The five Cs highlighted by NSFE 2020-25 are Capacity, Content, Communication, Community,
and Collaboration.
 Here, content refers to the curriculum in schools; where the term “Capacity” is used for
developing capacity in intermediaries involved in financial services.
 Communication and Community are used to create a community led model for financial
literacy using communication strategy.
 Lastly, Collaboration is used to enhance the partnership/collaboration among various
stakeholders.
2. National Centre for Financial Education

The first NSFE was launched by National Centre for Financial Education. It is a Section 8
(Non-Profit) company that is promoted by the Reserve Bank of India, Pension Fund
Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) and Insurance Regulatory and
Development Authority of India (IRDAI). Its key objective is to promote Financial
Education across India for all sections of society as per National Strategy for Financial
Education of Financial Stability and Development Council. Its vision is “A financially
aware and empowered India.”
166. Ramesh Chand Task Force recommends linking sugarcane prices to

sugar rates
Ramesh Chand task force by Niti Aayog has recommended to link sugarcane prices to
sugar rates. The task force highlighted that it is essential to keep the industry in a good
financial health. In its report, the task force has recommended for a one-time increase in
the minimum sugar price at Rs 33 per kg. This report of the task force was finalized in
March 2020 and published on August 20.
Ramesh Chand Task Force Report on Sugarcane Prices

 As a major point, the panel recommended to link sugarcane prices to sugar rates.
 Areas under sugarcane cultivation should be shifted to less water-intensive crops by
providing incentives to farmers. At present area for sugarcane cultivation is about 3 lakh
hectares and it yields about 20 lakh tonnes of sugarcane.
 The panel suggested that the incentive to farmers from moving to less water-intensive crops
should be around Rs 6,000 per hectare.
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 Revenue Sharing Formula (RSF) must be introduced to help farmers in receiving fair prices for
their sugarcane produce. A price stabilisation fund must also be introduced.
 The minimum support price (MSP) of sugarcane must be reviewed in six months.
 The panel also recommended levying a cess of Rs 50 per quintal on sugar for a period of 3
years to add about Rs 4,500 crore to the fund which could be used to improve financial
conditions of farmers.
167. India and Israel New Cultural Agreement: Key Points
India and Israel signed a new cultural agreement to strengthen people-to-people

exchanges. This agreement was signed by India’s Ambassador to Israel, Sanjeev Singla
and Israel’s Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi.
Key Points of the Agreement

 The new cultural agreement will be a three year programme on cultural cooperation from
2020-23.
 The areas of cooperation under the agreement are exchange of culture and art experts;
organizing literature fests and book fairs as well as promoting the translation of famous works
in each other’s languages; enhancing cooperation in the protection of cultural heritage and
archaeology with the help of Israel Antiquities Authority (IIA) and Archaeological Survey of
India (ASI).
 The agreement also includes encourage direct contacts between national libraries and book
publishers; student exchanges through scholarships.
 Co-operation in co-production in the field of cinema and audio-visual is also highlighted in the
agreement. This co-operation on co-production was agreed by the Prime Minister of Israel,
Benjamin Netanyahu, during his visit to India in 2018.
 Also, major emphasis will be laid to bring the youth of both the countries together through
participation in festivals, sharing experiences, knowledge, etc.
168. Madhya Pradesh to offer jobs based on CET conducted by NRA
Madhya Pradesh will be offering jobs based on the marks secured by candidates in the
common eligibility test (CET) by National Recruitment Agency (NRA). With this, Madhya
Pradesh has become the first state in the country to offer jobs on the basis newly
approved CET.
Common Eligibility Test by NRA

 The Union Cabinet has approved to set up National Recruitment Agency which will conduct a
Common Eligibility Test to provide jobs to the youth.
 This common test will replace the individual tests conducted for jobs through RRB, SSC and
IBPS.
 Once, the agency is established, candidates will be required to appear for only one common
exam and those qualifying it will be eligible to get jobs in all the participating organisations.
 However, the exam will be conducted at three levels- Graduate, 12th pass and 10th pass
candidates.
 This test will be conducted in online mode across the country.
 The score card of CET will be valid for three years.
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 CET will bring a transparency in the recruitment process.
169. Chandrayaan-2 completes a year around Moon
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) on August 20 said that the second lunar
mission of India Chandrayaan-2 has completed one year around the Moon in the lunar
orbit. According to ISRO, all the instruments of Chandrayaan-2 are performing well at
present.
1. Key Points
 ISRO also highlighted that the fuel onboard is adequate to keep Chandrayaan-2 operational
for seven more years.
 The orbiter completed more than 4,400 orbits around the Moon. Although, the soft-landing
attempt was not successful previous year but the orbiter was placed successfully in the lunar
orbit.
 The agency has also claimed that the orbiter is being maintained in 100 +/- 25 km polar orbit
with periodic orbit maintenance (OM) maneuvers.
 Chandrayaan-2 was launched to enhance the knowledge about the moon through a detailed
study of its surface chemical composition, topography, thermo-physical characteristics,
mineralogy, and atmosphere.
1.1. Chandrayaan-2
The second lunar mission of the country, Chandrayaan-2 was launched on July 22, 2019
from the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Andhra Pradesh and was inserted into the lunar
orbit of Moon on August 20, 2019. The first lunar mission Chandrayaan-1 was launched
by ISRO in October 2008 and was operated till August 2009.
August 22, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
170. Harit Path: Mobile Application to monitor plantation along National

Highway launched by NHAI
On August 21, 2020, the National Highway Authority of India launched the mobile
application called “Harit Path”. The application has started creating user IDs for experts.
So far 7,800 plants have been geo-tagged using the application.
1. Highlights
The application developed will monitor growth, location, species details and will maintain
targets, achievements made by individual plantation projects. The application has been
launched on Big Data Analytics platform -Data Lake.
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1.1. Data Lake
It is a repository of data stored in raw format. It includes structured data and
transformed data. It mainly includes reporting and machine learning.
2. Harit Bharat Sankalp

Apart from launching mobile application, the NHAI has taken up nation-wide plantation
drive called “Harit Bharat Sankalp”. This has been launched to promote environment
protection and sustainability. Around 25 lakh plantations were planted in 25 days along
the stretch of National Highway. With this, the total number of plantations done during
the year has gone to 35.22 lakh.
3. About the application

 In order to track the growth of the plants, photographs of the plants are to be uploaded every
three months.
 To make sure of the survival of the plants, a minimum height of 1.5 metres have been
emphasized.
4. Significance
The launch of the application will further facilitate creation of Green Highways in the
country.
5. NHAI ranking
In July 2020, the NHAI announced that it is to rank roads based on quality service. This is
to be done based on highway efficiency, user services and highway safety. Also,
separate ranking is to be done on Build, Operate and Transfer model. Apart from this,
ranking is also to be done on Engineering, Procurement and construction model.
6. Bharatmala Pariyojana
In 2019-20, the NHAI completed construction of 3,979 km of national highways. This is
the highest highway construction achieved.
6.1. Highlights
 The scheme works on improving efficiency of existing corridors
 It enhances focus on improving North East Connectivity
 It calls for seamless connectivity with neighbouring countries.
 24 Integrated Check Posts were identified under the project.
171. Myanmar Government and Armed Groups signed Ceasefire

Implementation
On August 21, 2020, Myanmar Government and ten armed ethnic groups in the country
signed National Ceasefire Agreement at the Union Peace Conference.
1. Highlights
The peace accord signed between the armed groups and Myanmar government is called
the Union Peace Accord. It contains 15 provisions to implement the National Ceasefire
Agreement. It includes troop deployment and protocol to deal with skirmishes between
government troops.
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2. Background
The peace process in Myanmar was started in 2011 to end the long-standing conflict
between the ethnic armed forces and Myanmar Government.

Myanmar is a multi-ethnic country that is composed of seven ethnically designated
states and regions. They are Shans, Rakhines, Karens, Chins, Kachins, Was, Karenni,
Nagas, Palaungs, etc. The Burmans, mostly Buddhists constitute to 68% of the total
population.
4. Rohingya Conflict
Rohingyas are the Muslims living in the state of Rakhine of Myanmar. According to the
United Nations, they are the most persecuted minorities in the world. The ethnic Rakhine
want the Rohingyas Muslims completely evacuated from the state.
5. Internal Conflicts
The Internal conflicts in Myanmar are a series of insurgencies in Myanmar after the
country gained independence from United Kingdom in 1049.
6. Kachin
The Kachin people are the major ethnic minority in Myanmar. They inhabit the
mountains of Kachin. In 2012 alone, the conflict between these people and the Myanmar
Government resulted in 2,500 casualties.
7. Karenni
They are the largest insurgent group inhabiting the Kayah state. They have formed the
Karenni army and are fighting to obtain independence.
8. Karen
The Karen people are the third largest ethnic group in Myanmar. They form 7% of
country’s total population.
172. Rajiv Kumar, former finance secretary appointed as Election

Commissioner
On August 21, 2020, the former finance secretary was appointed as the Election
Commissioner. The outgoing Election Commission Ashol Lavasa is to join the Asian
Development Bank as its vice president.
1. Highlights
Mr Kumar has 30 years of experience in public policy and administration in several
sectors. He holds LLB and BSc degrees along with Master of Public policy and
Sustainability. He was appointed as the finance secretary in July 2019. He had worked in
the key areas of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s plan of Financial Inclusion, Mudra loan
schemes and Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana.
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2. Election Commission of India
Article 324 of the Constitution of India mentions provisions to ensure and safeguard
functions of Election Commission. They are as follows
3. Background
The Part-15 of the Indian constitution establishes election commission and deals with
elections. Election Commission had only one election commissioner. However, after
Election Commissioner Amendment Act, 1989, multiple election commissioner are being
appointed.
4. Functions of Election Commission

 The Election Commission determines the territorial areas of Electoral constituencies
throughout the country on the basis of Delimitation Commission Act of Parliament.
 It prepares and revises electoral rolls registering all eligible voters.
 It notifies all dates and schedules scrutinizing nomination papers
 When in dispute between pollical parties in allocating election symbols and recognition to
political parties, the election commission acts as a court.
 It prepares programme to publicize policies of all political parties like TV and radio during
elections.
 It advises President on disqualification of MPs. Also, it advises the governor on disqualification
of MLA.
173. Spain: First West Nile Virus Death
On August 21, 2020, an outbreak of West Nile Virus spread by mosquitos claimed the
lives of two people in Spain and left 23 in hospital.
1. History
The West Nile Virus was first discovered in Uganda in 1937. It was carried by birds and
was spread to humans by mosquitoes. The virus is indigenous to Asia, Africa, Europe and
Australia.
2. West Nile Virus

The West Nile Virus is a RNA virus that causes West Nile Fever. The virus belongs to the
Flaviviridae family. The Flaviviridae family also contains Zika virus, yellow fever virus
and Dengue virus.
3. West Nile Virus in India

In March 2019, West Nile Virus was reported in Kerala.
4. West Nile Virus Cycle

The West Nile Virus are transmitted from birds to mosquitos and from mosquitos to
horses and mammals. The virus can also transmit to humans through organ transplant,
breast milk and blood transfusions. So far, there has been no human-to-human West Nile
virus transmission.
5. Illness
The serious illness caused by West Nile Virus is Neuroinvasive disease.
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6. Zika Virus
Zika Virus spreads through the bite of Aedes Mosquito. They can pass through blood
transfusion and sex. The virus can also pass from pregnant mothers to her fetus. There
is no vaccine or medicine to Zika virus.
7. Yellow Fever Virus

The virus spreads through mosquitos. The vaccine of Yellow fever virus is called 17D.
However, there are reports of organ failure following the vaccination. Therefore, vaccine
hesitancy is reported all over the world.
174. ESIC extends Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojana
On August 21, 2020, the Employee State Insurance Corporation (ESIC) extended the
unemployment benefit scheme Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojana till June 2021.
1. Highlights
The Atal Bimit Vyakti Kalyan Yojana is being implemented by Employee State Insurance
Corporation. The scheme was approved under the Employees State Insurance Act, 1948.
The scheme aims to support the people who have lost their jobs due to changing
employment pattern due to an international crisis or a domestic crisis. Currently, the
change in employment pattern is due to COVID-19.
2. Key Features of the Scheme

 The scheme pays cash directly to bank account of insured persons in case of unemployment.
 Under the scheme, the workers can draw 47% of total contributions towards ESIC after being
unemployed for at least three months.
3. Other Schemes for the Unemployed in India
3.1. Rozgar Yojana

The Prime Minister Rozgar Yojana is implemented since 1993. It is designed to create
and provide sustainable self-employment to more than 1 million unemployed youth in
the country. This was introduced in the 8th plan of the country. In 2016-17, it was
updated as Pradhan Mantri Rozgar Potsahan Yojana.
3.2. Pradhan Mantri Rozgar Potsahan Yojana

The scheme was announced in 2016-17 budget. The scheme is being implemented by
the Ministry of Labour and Employment. The employers are incentivized to increase the
employee base through payment of EPF contribution of 22% of Employment Provident
fund. Thus, the scheme benefits both the employer and the employee.
3.3. Pradhan Mantri Berojgari Bhatta Yojana

The scheme was introduced in April 2020. The Union Government was working to
implement Universal Basic Income scheme. As a part of this, under the scheme, the
unemployed youth in the country are is to be provided with financial assistance of Rs
2000 to Rs 3500 on monthly basis.
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175. Myanmar pushes back against China funded China-Myanmar
Economic Corridor
Myanmar has pushed back against China after trying to widen its influence through
China-Myanmar Economic Corridor (CMEC). The decision was influenced from the
experience of Pakistan in China Pakistan Economic Corridor and with Sri Lanka being
pushed towards debt trap.
1. Highlights
China proposed the CMEC as a part of the BRI initiative. When Chinese President Xi Jing
Ping visited Myanmar in January 2020, two agreements were signed to establish
Kyaukphyu Deep dea port and to set up Special Economic Zone.
2. Kyaukphyu Deep Sea Port

The port is important for energy security of China. It houses an oil and gas pipeline.
Under this port development project, china is targeting massive investment of 100 billion
USD in Myanmar.
3. Myanmar
 There are 38 projects under CMEC. However, Myanmar has so far approved only nine.
 The construction of Myostsone Dam is also suspended. Under the project, a 3.6 billion USD
dam was proposed across the IRawaddy river. The project was suspended in 2011 due to
widespread public concerns due to social and environmental impacts.
 There were plans to purchase arms and other defence hardware from China. However,
Myanmar has diversified its sources. Currently, Myanmar buys its arms and ammunition from
India, Russia, Ukraine, Israel and other European and Central Asian countries.
176. GoI: 21 Centres of Excellence to be launched to incubate new

technologies
The State-Owned Technology Parks in India (STPI) are to have the largest ecosystem to
incubate new technologies. This is to be achieved by setting up 21 Centres of Excellence
in these parks.
1. Highlights
India has centres of excellence (CoE) for Internet of Things, electric vehicles, block chain,
animation and gaming, etc. The Government of India has already launched 12 CoEs. Of
this, three are dedicated to agriculture. Apart from agriculture, the CoE will focus on
forestry and fisheries. This is because agriculture, forestry and fisheries contribute to
17% of India’s GDP. India is the second largest producer of farm products in the world. It
still needs to grow up in supply chain.
2. STPI centres
As of March 2020, there were 60 STPI Centres or sub centres in the country. They are
operational in Tier-II and Tier-III cities.
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3. Schemes under STPI
The STPI has been implementing Software Technology Park Scheme and Electronics
Hardware Technology Park Scheme to promote IT industry. The schemes focus largely on
software industry and start up growth without locational constraints.
4. Rental Waiver
In April 2020, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology provided rental
waiver to Information Technology Units operating in Software Technology Parks of India.
The waiver was provided in the light of current COVID-19 crisis.
5. Centres of Excellence
The Centre of Excellence is a place that provides research, leadership, support and
training.
177. Turkey discovers Natural Gas reserves in Black Sea
On August 21, 2020, the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the
discovery of large natural gas reserves in the Black Sea coast. According to the
announcement made by the President, 320 billion cubic metres of natural gas has been
discovered.
1. Highlights
Turkey is to start using the discovered natural gas by 2023. Though the discovery made
is significant to Turkey, it is smaller as compared to the discoveries made in the eastern
Mediterranean.
2. What is Greece-Turkish Conflict?

Currently, the major conflict between the countries is over gas. Recently, Turkey was
drilling in the Turkish-occupied regions of Cyprus. The occupation of Turkey is not
recognised by international community. Now, turkey claims exploitation rights in the
region. Greece counters the claim as the drilling regions comes under Greece inhabited
exclusive economic zones. According to UNCLOS, exclusive economic zone extends to
200-miles. Turkey is not a part of UNCLOS.
3. Natural Gas in India

The domestic natural gas in India is supplied from oil and gas fields in south eastern and
western areas of Mumbai. It is also found in North Eastern region (Tripura and Assam).
However, India imports 45% of its natural gas.
4. National Seismic Programme

The programme was launched in 2016 to trace hydrocarbon resources such as oil and
natural gas.
5. National Gas Grid

The GoI has plans to develop a National Gas Grid. So far, 16,788 km of natural gas
pipeline is operational. Around 14,239 km is being developed. The National Gas Grid will
provide access to clean and green fuel throughout the country. It will connect major
demand centres and will ensure availability of gas to consumers.
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178. Power Sector: Trancos and Gencos to charge 12% cap on Late
Payment Surcharge
On August 22, 2020, the Power Ministry announced that the Generating Companies and
the Transmission Companies have been advised to charge Late Payment Surcharge at a
rate not exceeding 12% per annum. With this, the financial burden on Discoms is to ease
out.
1. Highlights
The interest rates in India have been softened over the last few years. However, the rate
of late payment surcharges are still quite high. The rate has ranged up to 18% per
annum. This has adversely impacted Discoms during the COVID-19 times. Thus, it has
now been reduced to 12% ease out financial stresses on Gencos and Trancos.
2. UDAY
UDAY is Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojana. It was launched in November 2015. Discoms
are the Distribution Companies that are responsible to buy electricity from generation
companies and selling to consumers.
3. Objectives of the UDAY

 It aims to bring down the technical and commercial losses from 22% to 15%.
 It aims to improve operating efficiency through compulsory smart metering and upgradation
of transformers
 It is basically a debt restructuring programme
4. Issues in power distribution sector

 DISCOMS suffer aggregate technical and commercial losses, which is around 25% of
generated power.
 The power is sold at prices that are much lower than that of procurement costs. This has led
to losses that have accumulated to around 3.5% of India’s GDP.
5. Outcomes of UDAY Scheme

 Out of 28 states that implemented the scheme, 10 have shown reduced losses and profits in
2019
 The losses of major states stood at 19.05% as against the target of reducing them to 15% by
2019.
August 23, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
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179. National Council for Transgender Persons constituted
The Government of India has constituted National Council for Transgender Persons. The
Council is to be headed by the Union Social Justice Minister. It comprises of members
from 10 central departments, members from the community and central department.
1. Highlights
The Council has been formed under Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act,
2019. The Council will also have joint secretary level members from ministries of health,
minority affairs, education, labour, rural development. Apart from the ministries, the
council will also have members from Human Rights Commissions, NITI Aayog and
National Commission for women.
2. Functions of the Council

The council has five main functions as follows
3. Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019

The following are the key features of the act
4. Concerns
The key concerns regarding the NCTP are (1) There are no provisions for self-
determination of gender in the act (2) There are no effective mechanism to enforce legal
prohibition against discrimination (3) The punishments set for criminal offences against
the transgenders such as physical abuse or sexual abuse are minimal.
180. Facts Box: Dragonfly Festival
The World Wide Fund along with the Bombay Natural History Society launched the third
edition of Dragonfly festival, 2020. The festival aims to create conservation of these
insects.
1. Highlights
For the first time, the festival is to be organised in Kerala as “Thumbi Mahostsavam
2020”. This is a part of the National Dragonfly Festival. Along with WWF and BNHS, the
other organisers are National Biodiversity board, IUCN-Centre for Environment
Conservation, United Nations Development Programme.
2. Significance
Dragon Flies are used as indicator of aquatic ecosystem quality and biodiversity. Their
sensitivity towards habitat quality and their amphibious cycle make them well suited to
evaluate environmental changes.
3. Concerns
The main reason for the decline of dragon fly is due to destruction of aquatic habitats,
canalisation of streams and rivers. In the tropics, the main threat of the dragon fly is
deforestation. It is also due to increase in invasive trees and fish.
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4. IUCN SSC Dragonfly Specialist Group
It is a global network of 28 countries. They work on dragonfly related issues in Arabian
Peninsula, East Himalayas, Western Ghats, Arabian Peninsula, Indo-Burma, Africa, New
Zealand.
5. India
There are more than 500 species of dragon flies in India.
181. 412 Infrastructure Projects hit by Cost Over run of Rs 4.11 lakh
crores
On August 23, 2020, the Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation

announced that around 412 infrastructure projects each of worth Rs 150 crores have
been hit with cost over run of Rs 4.11 lakh crores.
1. Highlights
The original cost of implementation of these projects were Rs 20,65,336. Their
completion cost is anticipated as Rs 24,77,167 crores. There are a total of 1,683 projects
in all. The average time over run of these projects is 43.34 months.
2. Why the over run?

According to the report of the ministry the projects are over run due to delay in
obtaining forest or environment clearances, lack of infrastructure, and delay in land
acquisition. The other reasons are delay in finalisation of detailed engineering, delay in
tendering, ordering and equipment supply, geological surprises, law and order problems,
contractual issues and pre-commissioning teething troubles.
3. Significance
These projects are highly important as Government of India has huge plans for
infrastructure sector in the coming years. The National Infrastructure Pipeline was
announced by the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman during Budget 2020-21. Around
Rs 102 lakh crores are to be brought in to these projects.
4. Why is Infrastructure important?

 Timely Infrastructural developments are important for India to achieve its 5 trillion USD
economy
 The Infrastructural development will generate growth employment and will also pull people
out of poverty
 The Infrastructural development will help GoI in Ease of Doing Buisness
5. Why the over run?

The following are the main reasons for project over run in the country
6. Background
The investment in infrastructure investment is equal to 1% of GDP in the country. The
recent headway is that developing transport infrastructure is the biggest enabler of
growth in the country.
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182. Facts Box: BIS draft standard for drinking water supply
The Bureau of Indian Standards has prepared a draft standard for the supply of piped
drinking water. It has been named “Drinking Water Supply Quality Management System-
requirements for piped drinking water supply service”.
1. Highlights
The draft was prepared by the BIS Public Drinking Water Supply Services Sectional
Committee. The draft was developed with the aim to provide safe and adequate drinking
water to rural households by 2024.
2. Key Features of the draft

 After treatment drinking water should conform to Indian Standard (IS) 10500. This standard
was developed by BIS
 District Metering Area concept should be adopted as early as possible
 Water should be sampled every four hours at the treatment plants. Also, at the water
reservoirs in the distribution system, water should be sampled every eight hours. Also,
random water sampling should be done at households
 Water audit should be conducted on quarterly basis. It is the calculation of amount of water
that is put to distribution as against the amount that is consumed.
3. District Metering Area

It is a concept that controls leakages in the water network. Under the system, an area is
divided into a number of sectors where the flow meters are installed to detect the leaks.
4. IS 10500
It gives standards to the limit of substances in drinking water. This includes heavy
metals such as arsenic and pH of the water, dissolved salts, colour, odour and turbidity.
5. Standards about the Water Supply Process

 The supply system according to the draft begins with raw water sources. The water from
these sources should be pumped into treatment plants and treated to achieve acceptable
drinking standards
 There should be reservoirs to distribute the stored water.
 Pumping stations should be provided to provide adequate pressure throughout the
distribution systems.
 Meters and Valves should be installed throughout distribution systems as control devices.
183. GoI proposes stricter norms for construction machinery
The Government of India has proposed stricter norms to ensure greater safety on
highways. It includes features such as machine mounted audible travel alarms,
requirements for operator station, non-metallic fuel tank, operator visibility for
construction equipment machinery.
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1. Highlights
There are safety requirements for Construction Equipment Vehicles in Central Motors
Vehicles rules, 1989. These new rules are being proposed to introduce Automotive
Industry Standard AIS 160. The Government has proposed stricter norms under the new
rules to ensure greater safety on highways.
2. AIS Standards in India

The AIS Standards in India are governed by the Ministry of Road Transport and
Highways. These standards are based on UNECE norms. UNECE is United Nations
Economic Commission for Europe. The other AIS standards used in India are as follows
3. UNECE
The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe is one of the five regional
commissions under UNESCO (United Nations Economic and Social Council). The
commission is made of 56 member states. They are based in Europe. India is not a
member.
4. Background
The AIS has been criticised for not enforcing occupant safety norms. Also, the number of
deaths due to road accidents in India is three to four times as that of the European
countries.
5. Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989

The rules were recently amended in 2019 making vehicle tracking system device and
FASTags mandatory for all commercial vehicles obtaining national permit.
184. What is One Sun, One World, One Grid Project?
The Prime Minister Modi in his Independence Day address mentioned the mega plan of
“One Sun One World One Grid” project. It is a trans-national electricity grid supplying
solar power project. The idea of the project was first introduced by PM Modi in 2018
during the International Solar Alliance.
1. Highlights
The plan focuses on framework to facilitate global cooperation, building global
ecosystem of interconnected renewable energy resources. The project receives technical
assistance from World Bank. The project divides the areas into two broad zones. They
are the far east including countries such as Vietnam, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand,
Cambodia, etc and the far west includes the Africa region and the middle east.
2. Three phases of the plan

 The first phase of the plan fosters cross border energy trade under India’s Neighbourhood
first policy. India is already supplying power to SAARC countries except Pakistan. The first
plan of the project involves under-sea link that connects with Oman in the west.
 The second phase of the project deals with Middle East, South Asia and South East Asia that
are inter connected with African power pools.
 The third phase includes global interconnection.
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3. Background
India has plans to set up World Solar Bank with a capital of 10 billion USD. With the US
withdrawal from Paris Climate deal, the project will help to mitigate ill effects on climate.
It will help to fulfil Nationally Determined Contributions of different countries.
4. World Solar Technology Summit

For the first time, the International Solar Alliance is to hold World Solar Technology
Summit in September 2020. The summit will bring world scientists and engineers
together in order to address affordability of energy.
5. Solar Power in India

The Solar Power Generation in India was at 35 GW in July 2020. India has set a target of
generating 100 GW of solar power by 2022.
185. Facts Box: National Sports Awards, 2020
On August 22, 2020, the Government of India announced the National Sports Awards,
2020.
1. Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award

The award is presented to sportspersons with most outstanding performance in the field
of sports for a period of four years. The following persons have been selected for the
award for the year 2020
2. Arjuna Award
This year, 27 sports person have been selected for the award. The winners of the award
are presented with a cash prize of Rs 5 lakhs. The award is presented to motivate the
sportsperson for their good performances.
3. Dronacharya Award
The award is to be presented to the following
4. Dhyan Chand Award

The award is presented for life time contribution to sports development. It is to be given
to
5. Rashtriya Khel Protsahan Puraskar

It is to be presented to the Lakshya Institute and Army Sports Institute for identifying
and nurturing young talents.
6. Other Awards
 Oil and Natural Gas Corporation is to get the award of encouragement to sports through
Corporate Social Responsibility
 Air Force Sports Control Board is to be honoured with award for employment of sportspersons
 International Institute of Sports Management is to get the award for Sports for Development
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186. Centre to States: Include all eligible disabled persons under NFSA,
2013
On August 23, 2020, the Central Government wrote to the State governments and the
Union Territories that all the disabled persons should be included under National Food
Security Act (NFSA), 2013.
1. Why the new order?

The Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan benefits are for those persons who are not covered
under NFSA Act or Public Distribution System of States. Therefore, the disabled persons
without rations cards are also eligible to receive benefits under Atma Nirbhar Bharat
Abbhiyan. The scheme is to lapse on August 31, 2020. Therefore, the Central
Government has issued order to identify such disabled persons who do not hold ration
cards and include them under NFSA, 2013.
2. National Food Security Act, 2013

The Key Features of the Act are as follows
3. Antyodaya Anna Yojana

 The scheme is a part of National Food Security Act. The poorest of poor households are
entitled to 35 kg of food grains under the scheme
 The Below Poverty Line Families that are covered under Targeted Pubic Distribution System
are included under the scheme.
 The beneficiaries include marginal farmers, agricultural labourers, rural artisans, craftsmen,
etc.
 The scheme covers 2.5 crore households covering 38% of Below Poverty Line families.
August 24, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
187. Farm Sector grows as GDP contracts for first time in India
The National Statistical Office is to release its data for this quarter on August 31, 2020.
According to the NSO officials, in spite of agricultural production going up in the country,
the GDP is contracting. This is the first time India is witnessing fall in GDP in spite of
agricultural production going up.
1. Highlights
The GDP of India registered at -5.2% in 1979-80. In the same year, the agriculture
growth was at 012%. Similar reduction was seen in previous contractions as well. In
1957-58, GDP growth was -1.2% and agricultural growth was -4.5%. In 1965-66, GDP
growth was -3.7% and the agriculture growth wasv-11%.
2. Challenges faced by Agriculture sector in India
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 Farm Holdings: Around 50% of population is engaged in agricultural production in India.
However, as farm lands are divided among family members, farm size is half of what it was
40 years ago.
 Irrigation: Majority of farm lands are still under unsustainable farm practices such as
pumping, flooding that is depleting the aquifers.
 Subsidies: The Government subsidies provided to farmers have increased eight times
between 1990-91 and 2006-07.
 Though fruits and vegetables comprise only 13.6% of total production, they contribute to 30%
of post-harvest losses due to lack of cold storage facilities
 Around 60% of agricultural lands in India are at risk due to misuse of fertilizers, soil nutrient
deficiencies and poor cropping pattern.
3. India’s Agricultural Target

India is on the road of doubling farmers’ income by 2022.
4. Agricultural Marketing and Farmer Friendly Reforms Index

The index is released by NITI Aayog. It ranks the states based on their initiatives taken in
implementing farm sector reforms. It mainly includes Reforms in agricultural marketing,
forestry on private land and land lease.
5. Major Agricultural schemes in India

The following are the major agricultural schemes that are being implemented in India
188. Indian Railways generate 6,40,000 days of work under Garib Kalyan
Rozgar Abhiyan
The Indian Railways have generated more than 6,40,000-man days under Garib Kalyan
Rozgar Abhiyan in six states. They are Jharkhand, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan,
Odisha, Uttar Pradesh.
1. Highlights
Till August 21, 2020, around 12,276 workers have been enrolled under Garib Kalyan
Rozgar Abhiyan. The Indian Railways had identified the following works under the
scheme
2. Garib Kalyan Rozgar Yojana

The scheme was launched by PM Modi to boost livelihood opportunities in rural India.
The following are the major highlights of the scheme
3. Why these six states in specific?

During COVID-19 crisis, majority of migrant workers have returned to these six states.
These districts cover about two-thirds of migrant workers. The chosen districts include
aspirational districts as well.
4. Krishi Vigyan Kendras

They are an integral part of National Agricultural Research System. These centres assess
the location of specific technology modules through technology assessment,
demonstrations and refinement. It is 100% financed by GOI.
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189. India’s longest ropeway on Brahmaputra to open for public in

Guwahati
On August 24, 2020, the State Minister of Assam, Siddhartha Bhattacharya inaugurated
India’s longest ropeway across river Brahmaputra.
1. Highlights
The ropeway is to cut short the travel time by almost an hour. It is 2 km long and the
distance is covered in 7 minutes. One-way ride is to cost Rs 60.
2. Tourism in Assam
The first Tourism policy in Assam was announced in 2008. It aims to make Assam a
tourist hub in North East India.
3. Steps taken to promote Tourism in the north east

The following steps have been taken by GoI to promote rural tourism in the north east
3.1. Connectivity
 GoI has planned to build 4,000 km long ring roads connecting the north east state capitals by
2020
 Twenty port townships are be developed on Barak river and Brahmaputra river.
 UDAN regional connectivity scheme is also being developed to connect the region through
air.
3.2. India-Myanmar-Thailand highway

 The India-Myanmar-Thailand highway is being constructed under India’s Act East Policy.
 The highway is to provide connectivity to ASEAN countries.
3.3. International Tourism Mart

 This is being organised by the Ministry of Tourism since 2013.
 The event provides opportunities for the tour operators to project the region as a potential
tourist destination.
3.4. Aamaar Aalohi

 The scheme has objectives providing new dimension by providing rural homestay facilities in
the state of Assam.
190. Nuakhai Juhar Festival celebrated in Chhattisgarh and Odisha
On August 23, 2020, Nuakhai Juhar festival was celebrated in Odisha, Chhattisgarh and
other neighbouring states. It is celebrated to welcome the new crop of the season. It is
also called Nuakhai Parab or Nuakahi Bhetghat.
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1. Highlights
During the festival, food grains are worshipped. The locals organize dances and folk
songs in their districts displaying their culture and tradition. It is predominantly
celebrated in western Odisha. However, this year due to COVID-19 lock down, people
celebrated the festival inside their homes.
2. Other festivals
2.1. Galos Tribes

They are one of the major tribes of Arunachal Pradesh that dominate West Siang district.
They are recognized as Scheduled tribe.
2.2. Adi Tribe

The Adi tribe are living in East Siang and Lower Dibang valleys of Arunachal Pradesh.
They are believed to have come from southern China.
3. Nyishi Tribe
They are the single largest tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. They speak Tibeto-Burman
language. They practice slash and burn agriculture.
191. ARIES Astronomers trace mystery behind dwarf galaxy
The scientists at the Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observation Science (ARIES) has
found dwarf galaxies that are forming new stars at the rate of 10-100 times more than
that of Milky Way Galaxy. This however, according to the scientists do not last longer
than a few tens of million years.
1. Highlights
These dwarf galaxies according to the scientists last only for few billion years. Also, the
formation of new stars in these galaxies also happen for a very short duration which is a
few million years. The scientists used the following telescopes to make these
observations
2. Key Findings
The scientists have found that the star formation at high rate requires high density of
hydrogen in the galaxies. The hydrogen in these short living small galaxies is very
minimal. On the other hand, in a well defined galaxy, the hydrogen distribution is
symmetrical.
3. Telescopes in India
The major telescopes in India are as follows
4. MACE
The world highest and India’s largest telescope gamma ray telescope MACE is in Ladakh.
MACE is Major Atmospheric Cherenkov Experiment Telescope. It is placed at an altitude
of 4,300 metres above the sea level. It is the world second largest ground based
gamma-ray telescope.
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5. X-Ray Polarimeter Satellite
It is a planned space observatory satellite that is to be launched in 2021. The telescope
is developed by the Indian Space Research Organization. The satellite is to study cosmic
X-rays.
192. China sells most advanced warship to Pakistan
On August 23, 2020, China launched an advanced warship for Pakistan. This is the
largest it has built for a country and also the first among the four most sophisticated
naval platforms.
1. Highlights
China has sold Type 054A/P to Pakistan. It is a guided missile frigate. A Frigate is a
warship that has mixed armament and is generally heavier than that of a destroyer.
2. India’s concerns
The ship was launched after Pakistan foreign minister Shah Mahmood Qureshi discussed
the situation in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir with his Chinese
counterpart.
3. China-Pakistan
Since 1962, that is after the India-China war, China has been a steady source of military
equipment to Pakistan army. Recently, the Chinese Chengdu J-10B was inducted in
Pakistan army. It is considered as the closest American counterpart of Lockheed Martin
F-16C.
4. China Pakistan Economic Corridor

The CPEC is to connect Pakistan and China and the Central Asian countries. This a part of
Belt Road Initiative of China. India is against CPEC as it passes through Pakistan
occupied Kashmir.
5. China’s intentions
China is taking advantage of India-Pakistan hostility to counter Indian dominance. Also,
Chinese goods in Indian market is disrupting local manufacturing. By export promotion
schemes and incentives, China is dumping its less quality inexpensive goods in India.
This is affecting local businesses.
193. USFDA authorizes blood plasma therapy for COVID-19
The United States Food and Drug Administration (USFDA) recently authorized the use of
blood plasma therapy for COVID-19 patients.
1. Other countries Plasma Therapy

India is already using plasma therapy as a cure to COVID-19. India has set up plasma
banks to collect blood plasma from COVID-19 recovered patients. Apart from India,
France had allowed the use of plasma therapy.
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2. Earlier use of Plasma Therapy
In 2014, the World Health Organization recommended plasma therapy for Ebola virus.
Also, plasma therapy was used during H1N1 outbreak in 2009 and also during SARS
epidemic in 2003.
3. Working of plasma therapy

Plasma is the left out blood fluid after the blood components such as WBC, RBC and
platelets are removed. It holds antibodies. The antibodies are produced by the immune
system of human body. Plasma holds around 55% of blood in human body.
4. Plasma therapy in India

The Indian Council of Medical Research has given its approval to use plasma therapy as
a treatment to COVID-19. India was first to open a plasma bank for the COVID-19
recovered patients to donate their blood plasma. Today plasma banks are operated in
different parts of India in states such as Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Odisha, West Bengal, etc.
4.1. Project Platina

It is the world largest Convalescent Plasma Therapy Trial project that was launched by
the State Government of Maharashtra.
194. Finance Minister: Businesses with annual turnover of up to Rs 40

lakhs exempted from GST
On August 24, 2020, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman announced that the
businesses with annual turnover of up to Rs 40 lakhs are exempted from GST. Earlier the
limit was Rs 20 lakhs.
1. Highlights
The announcement was made through series of tweets on the occasion of first death
anniversary of former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. Also, the Finance Ministry added that
those people with turnover up to Rs 1.5 crores shall opt for Composition Scheme and
shall pay 1% tax.
2. Other Highlights
The Ministry of Finance during the announcement mentioned the following
3. RNR
It is Revenue Neutral Rate. When GST came into effect, GoI expected fall in tax collection
at earlier stages of its implementation as
4. Composition Scheme
Under the scheme, the firms under a certain threshold of turnover may pay a fixed
percentage of their turnover as tax. They have to fill only reduced number of returns as
taxes as compared to normal tax payers.
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195. Karnataka Government to build “Transit Homes” for Migrant
Workers
The Karnataka Government is to build transit homes for migrant workers. The homes
aim to provide better living conditions for the migrant workers. This is being launched
because of the reverse migration in Karnataka amid lock down.
1. Highlights
The project is being launched with an inspiration from “Apna Ghar” project of Kerala. The
expected cost of the project is Rs 50 crores. The transit homes will have kitchens so that
the migrant workers can cook their own meals. Also, they will have to pay minimal
maintenance fee for their stay.
2. Migration in India
Apart from migration due to COVID-19, there are other migration in the country. They
are as follows
Article 19 provides rights to all citizens to move freely throughout the country. It also
provides the rights to reside and settle in any part of the country.
4. Internal Migration
In India, internal migration is fueled by rural-urban wage difference and urbanization.
Also, it is much greater than that of external migration. Every year December 8 is
marked as International Migrants Day.
5. United Nations
The United Nations in 2016 adopted New York Declaration for refugees and migrants. It
commits to protect human rights, dignity, safety and fundamental freedom of all
migrants regardless of their migratory status.
196. India-Uzbekistan hold first National Coordination Committee

meeting
On August 24, 2020, India and Uzbekistan held their first National Coordination
Committee meeting where they discussed their bilateral interests such as trade and
investment and Line of Credit projects.
1. Highlights
The meeting was co-chaired by Indian External Affairs Minister and Uzbekistan Deputy
Prime Minister. The countries have bilateral trade of over 300 million USD.
Pharmaceuticals is the major area of trade between the countries. Also, medical tourism
has increased between the countries in the recent past.
2. Dustlik: India-Uzbekistan joint military exercise

Dustlik is the military exercise conducted jointly by India and Uzbekistan. It was held for
the first time in 2019 at Chirchiq Training Area of Uzbekistan. The exercise focused on
counter terrorism and counter insurgency in rural and urban regions.
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3. India-Uzbekistan military cooperation
In 2019, India and Uzbekistan signed Memorandum of Understanding to enhance military
medicine and military education ties between the armed forces of the two countries.
4. Why is Uzbekistan important to India?

Uzbekistan is important for India for its uranium supplies. After Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan
is the second Central Asian country to supply Uranium to India. In January 2019, India
and Uzbekistan signed agreement for long-term supply of Uranium to power India’s
domestic atomic reactors.
197. India-AIIB sign agreement of 500 million USD
On August 24, 2020, Government of Maharashtra and Asian Infrastructure Investment

Bank signed loan agreement of 500 million USD to improve service quality, safety and
network capacity of suburban railway system in Mumbai.
1. Highlights
The project is to increase network capacity in the region. This in turn will also help to
reduce fatal accidents of commuters. Among the primary beneficiaries of the project,
22% will be female passengers.
2. Background
Mumbai is the most populous metropolitan region in India. The population of Mumbai is
expected to reach 29.3 million by 2031 and 32.1 million by 2041. The increasing
population in the city has forced the Maharashtra State Government to make urban
planning sound and also optimize environmental and social outcomes. Thus, the focus
on suburban railway system. The technical boost and increased connectivity of the
system will increase the number of commuters and will certainly optimize environmental
outcomes.
3. Significance
Around 86% of Mumbai commuters use public transport every day. Of this, the Suburban
Railway carries 78% of the commuters, which is 8 million per day. This is increasing at
3% annually. Therefore, it is important to expand the system in proportion to increase in
commuters optimizing environmental concerns.
4. Concerns regarding AIIB

India remains the biggest borrower of China-led AIIB. The borrowing scale of India is
already out of proportion to its share-holding position in the bank. The country with
biggest vote share in AIIB is China with 26.65%, India with 7.65%, Russia with 6.06%,
Germany and South Korea to considerable amounts.
5. AIIB
As of July 2020, AIIB has approved 19.6 billion USD for 87 projects in 24 economies. India
alone has received 4.3 billion USD from AIIB for 17 projects as of July 2020. This is
almost 25% of total loans provided by the bank.
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198. Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan: DRDO identifies 108 systems and
subsystems to design, develop and manufacture
The Defence Research and Development Organization has taken several initiatives to
strengthen indigenous defence production under Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan.
Recently, DRDO has included 108 systems and subsystems to achieve Atma Nirbhar
Bharat Abhiyan.
1. Highlights
Under the new initiative, DRDO will provide support to design, develop and test the
identified 108 systems. By this, it intends to fulfil the requirements of armed forces, R&D
establishments and other security agencies. Thereby DRDO will now focus on design and
development of advanced technologies and systems.
2. Current Scenario
At present, DRDO consists of 1800 MSMEs along with Ordnance factories, Defence Public
Sector Units and large scale industries. By offering its technologies, DRDO has already
involved these MSMEs as its Development cum Production Partners. This will help India
boost its defence exports extensively.
3. Background
According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, India is the second
largest importer of defence items between 2014 and 2019. Thus, GoI is planning to
reduce its defence imports.
4. Budget 2020-21
In the Union Budget 2020-21, finance minister Nirmala Sitaraman allocated Rs 4,71,378
crores. In 2018-19, India spent 63 billion USD towards defence sector.
5. Why indigenisation?
With the border issues with China (Pangong Tso) and Kashmir (abrogation of Article 370)
issues with Pakistan, it is essential for India to boost its defence systems in the border.
With the COVID-19 crisis, defence imports will become highly unaffordable. Therefore,
indigenisation is the best solution. This will help to boost Indian industries and also
bolster border forces by fulfilling their requirements.
6. Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy

The policy was launched in August 2020. It aims to achieve an annual turn over of 25
billion USD in the defence manufacturing sector. This includes 5 billion USD of aerospace
and defence goods. The policy aims to achieve the target by 2025.
7. Defence Procurement Policy

It has gone through six revisions between 2015 and 2017. Therefore, the Department of
Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) recently has suggested to freeze
changes to the policy for the next five years.
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August 25, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
199. Indian Air Force launches MY IAF Application
On August 24, 2020, the Indian Air Force launched MY IAF mobile application. The
application provides career related information and job details to candidates.
1. Highlights
The mobile application will hold details related to selection process, syllabus, training,
payment and other relevant details. The launch is a part of Digital India initiative. It was
developed by Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC).
2. Other successful GoI applications

The Government of India has launched several mobile applications lately after launching
Digital India Programme. Some of the most successful apps are as follows
2.1. UMANG
 UMANG is Unified Mobile Application for New-Age Governance
 It was launched by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology in 2017.
 The user can avail multiple Government services under the app. This includes Aadhaar,
Digilocker, Employees Provident Fund, e-Land records, pension, ePathshala, crop insurance,
etc.
 Recently, the Indian Meteorological Department added weather services to the application.
This includes rainfall information, weather, cyclone warnings, etc.
2.2. BHIM
 BHIM is Bharat Interface for Money
 It was developed by National Payment Corporation of India
 It helps in cashless money transactions in India
 The user can check bank balance, send and receive money using the application.
2.3. Digi Locker

 It offers cloud storage of important documents such as driving license, study certificates and
other government service documents
2.4. mPassport Seva

 It was developed by Consular, Passport and Visa division of Government of India
 Using the application, the users can track the status of their passport
 The users can find nearest Passport Deva Kendra
 It provides real time police verification status
2.5. Digital India

Indian Digital economy is expected to cross 1 million USD by 2022. The following are the
progress and impacts of Digital India programme in the country
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200. WHO: Healthcare workers to get COVID-19 vaccine after senior
citizens
On August 25, 2020, the World Health Organization announced that the health care
workers are to receive COVID-19 vaccine after senior citizens.
1. Highlights
According to Amnesty International, around 3,000 healthcare workers have died of
COVID-19. It is 196 in India according to Indian Medical Association.
2. COVAX Facility
The facility was launched by WHO in association with GAVI (Global Alliance for Vaccines
and Immunization). COVAX is COVID-19 global Access Facility. It was launched at Global
Vaccine Summit 2020.
3. What is Vaccine Nationalism?

A country manages to develop and secure vaccines for its own citizens begore they are
made available in other countries. This is called Vaccine Nationalism. For instance, the
leading economies of the world UK, USA, China have spent billions of dollars in
developing COVID-19 vaccine. On the other hand, certain Afrcian countries have not
begun their research on COVID-19 vaccines.
4. Laws
There are no international rules or laws to prevent vaccine nationalism. Also, there are
no provisions to prevent pre-purchase agreements.
5. Current Scenario
The US, UK, Japan and European Union have already secured 1.3 billion doses of
potential COVID-19 vaccines. The US has signed deal to buy 800 million doses from six
drug makers and UK has signed deal to obtain 280 million from five drug makers.
201. International Conference on Climate Change and its Impact on

Himalayan Region to be held in India
The Aryabhatta Research Institute of Observational Sciences (ARIES), Nainital is to

conduct an International Conference on Climate Change and its Impact on Himalayan
Region. The conference is to be held between September 14 and September 16, 2020.
1. Highlights
The conference is to focus on rapid increase in air pollution due to urbanisation,
industrialisation and its impact on global air quality, cloud formation, visibility
degradation, radiation budget, monsoon patterns, human health, water availability,
glaciology and Himalayan climate.
2. Significance of the conference

 Atmospheric Aerosols called the Particulate Matter are suspended in the air. Due to rapid
economic growth, urbanisation and industrialisation, the aerosols in the atmosphere are
rapidly increasing.
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 The northern Indo-Gangetic plains and Himalayan region are the major global hotspots of
pollution due to anthropogenic emission.
 The regions receive frequent dust storms during pre-monsoon period.
 The air quality during post-monsoon and winter are declined due to bio fuel burning.
 The conference is also important to find solution for black carbon deposition in the Himalayan
glaciers
3. Black Carbon Deposition in Himalayan Glaciers

In March 2020, the researchers at the Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology found that
the concentration of black carbon has almost doubled in the last few years mainly due to
forest fires and agricultural burning. The following were found by the researchers about
Himalayan Glaciers
4. Black Carbon
It is an aerosol suspended as fine solid particle or liquid droplet in air. It is considered as
the second most important anthropogenic agent of climate change. It is emitted from
coal fired power plants, gas and diesel engines.
202. India’s ASTROSAT makes rare Discovery
ASTROSAT, the first multi wavelength satellite has detected extreme UV light from
galaxy that 9.3 billion light years away from the Earth.
1. Highlights
The first multi-wavelength satellite of India has five unique X-ray and UV telescopes.
They detect extreme UV light from galaxies that are billion light years away from the
earth. It is an IRS class satellite. IRS is Indian Remote Sensing Satellite.
2. ASTROSAT
ASTROSAT is the first multi-wavelength space telescope of India. It was launched on
September 28, 2015. With its success, ISRO is planning to launch ASTROSAT-2 as its
successor.
3. Control Centres of ASTROSAT

The control centres of Astrosat are located in the following places
4. Achievements of ASTROSAT
The sub-dwarf class star was a mystery to astronomers since 1995. Astrosat UVIT solved
the puzzle. It revealed that a sub-dwarf star is binary system, meaning there are two
stars, one hot and the other cool. Sub dwarfs are of luminosity Class VI under Yerkes
spectral classification system.
5. Stellar Classification
In astronomy, the stars are classified based on their spectral characteristics. They are as
follows
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203. Rare fish called “Mahseer” sighted in Sileru river
A team of researchers from Andhra University sighted a rare fish called “Mahseer” in the
Sileru river. The fish is listed as Endangered in IUCN (International Union for
Conservation of Nature) list.
1. Mahseer
Mahseer is commonly found in the Himalayan rivers that are running in cooler regions.
This includes Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Bhutan, Nepal. It is a large fresh water
fish. They mostly inhabit the fast-moving waters such as hill streams with rocky and
stony substrates. There are 47 species of Mahseer in the world. Out of these, 15 are
found in India.
2. Hump Backed Mahseer

Recently, in 2019, the IUCN changed the conservation status of Hump Backed Mahseer
to Critically Endangered. They are found only in River Cauvery in India and no where in
the world.
3. Project Mahseer
It is a project launched by the SHOAL, an international organization that is working to
conserve fresh water species.
4. Threats
Indiscriminate fishing, poaching, destruction of habitat, construction dams were the
major factors that led to the decline in Mahseer population. The need for conservation of
Mahseer was first reported by the National Commission on Agriculture, 1976.
5. Concerns
The Indian Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 does not give any protection to Mahseer. They
are not mentioned in the National Fisheries Act as well. There are lack of information
about the species migration patterns, population size and geographical spread.
6. Conservation
The World Wildlife Fund-India are jointly preparing an atlas of Mahseer distribution. This
conservation programme was begun in 2017. The fish is also being introduced in lakes
and reservoirs.
7. Way Forward
More conservatory efforts are required to save Mahseer fish. According to United Nations
report on Global Biodiversity crisis, the fresh water species population have declined by
83%.
8. Conferences
The first International Conference to save Mahseer was held in Bhutan in 2018. Earlier, in
2014, WWF-India convened a forum in Delhi.
9. Sileru River
It is a tributary of Sabari river. It originates in Andhra Pradesh and merges with Sabri in
Andhra Pradesh. After collecting waters from Sileru, the Sabari river merges with
Godavari river in Andhra Pradesh.
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204. Women share in NREGS dips to 8-year low
An analysis of data available at the National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme

(NREGS) portal says that the share of women in the NREGS is the lowest since 2013-14.
It has dipped to 52.46%.
1. Highlights
According to the data, there are 13.34 crore active beneficiaries under NREGS. Of this,
6.58 crores are women. The data also says that the scheme had generated 280 crore
person days for the current year. OF this, 183 crore person days have already been
generated. This signals the distress in rural India.
2. State wise
The national average of women’s share had dipped by 2.24%. Among the states, Andhra
Pradesh saw the highest fall of 3.58%. The participation of women in the scheme in the
state of AP was 60.5% in 2019 and has now declined to 56.47%. This was followed by
West Bengal, Telangana and Himachal Pradesh.
3. NREGS
The NREGS is important in the current scenario of COVID-19 crisis. This is because, the
GoI has planned to provide livelihood to the migrant workers returned to their home
towns through NREGS. The Jal Jeevan Mission is to be included in implementing the plan.
Under Jal Jeevan Mission, the GoI aims to provide tap water connections to all
households in the country. Therefore, the skills of migrant workers and other rural
unemployed are to be used to implement Jal Jeevan Mission through NREGS.
205. Bangladesh: Rohingyas to be relocated to Bashan Char Island
The Bangladesh Government is to relocate Rohingyas to the newly built facility at the
Bashan Char Island. This is being done to provide a better place of living for the refugee
community from Myanmar.
1. Highlights
The transfer of the refugees is to begin after the Monsoon season if they find the new
facility better than the cramped Cox’s Bazar. A few million Rohingyas are cramped at the
Cox’s Bazar. It is a port town in the south east coast of Bangladesh.
2. Issues raised against Bashan Char Island

The Bashan Char Island is located in the Bay of Bengal. It is at a distance of 37 miles
from the Bangladesh coast. It was formed very recently by Himalayan silt in 2006.
According to environmentalists, the Bashan Char Island is prone to floods, erosion, high
tides and cyclones.
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3. Background
Around 1 million Rohingyas fled from Rakhine State of Myanmar after a military crack
down in 2017. This was named “ethnic cleansing” by the United Nations. As Cox ‘s Bazar
is crowded, the Rohingyas are being relocated to Bashan Char Island.
4. Rohingyas in India
There are more than 40,000 Rohingyas in India. As India is not a signatory of United
Nations Convention on Refugees, the refugee status provided to the Rohingyas by the
United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees is irrelevant to India. India is currently
deporting identified Rohingyas back to Bangladesh.
206. RBI Annual Report 2019-20
On August 25, 2020, the Reserve Bank of India released its annual report 2019-20. The
report has made it very clear to the world that the apex bank stands as a bank with the
highest levels of financial resilience globally. According to the report, the total income in
2019-20 has increased by 28.97%.
1. Highlights
The following are the key highlights of the report
2. Contingency Funds
The Contingency Funds of RBI reduced to Rs 1.96 lakh crore. It was Rs 2.32 lakh crores
in 2018-19. This was mainly because RBI has changed the way of calculating its reserves
based on the recommendations made by Bimal Jalan Committee. An Economic Capital
Framework Committee was set up under former RBI Governor Bimal Jalan. One of the
major recommendations made by the committee is that the bank should align its
accounting year to April-March (fiscal year).
3. About the report

The report is generated annually by the Reserve Bank of India. It analyses the working
and operations of RBI and suggests measures to improve economic performance.
207. INS Viraat to be dismantled in Gujarat
The aircraft carrier, INS Viraat that served the Indian Navy for more than 30 years is to
be dismantled at Alang, Gujarat. The ship was decommissioned three years back.
1. Highlights
INS Viraat is the longest serving ship of the Indian Navy. It was inducted into the Indian
Navy in 1987. It was recently bought by a metal scrap company for Rs 38.54 crores. The
ship is to be towed from Naval Dockyard in Mumbai to the ship breaking yard at Alang. It
will take nine to twelve months to completely scrap the ship.
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2. About INS Viraat
The ship served the British Navy as HMS Hermes between 1959 and 1984. After
refurbishment it was commissioned into the Indian Navy. INS VIraat was a centaur-class
aircraft carrier. Also, it was the flagship of Indian Navy before INS Vikramaditya was
commissioned in 2013. Now INS Vikramaditya is the flagship of Indian Navy.
3. Aircraft Carriers in India

Currently, the Indian Navy operates a single aircraft carrier, that is INS Vikramaditya. It
was bought from Russia. INS Vikrant is an indigenous aircraft carrier that is being built in
Cochin Shipyard. The INS Vishal is the proposed second indigenous aircraft carrier.
4. INS Vishal
It is to be built after INS Vikrant. Vishal means Giant in Sanskrit.
5. INS Vikramaditya
It entered into service in 1987. The aircraft carrier served with the Soviet Navy and later
with the Russian Navy before being decommissioned in 1996. It was originally built as
Baku.
208. INTERPOL issues Red Notice against Nirav Modi wife
On august 25, 2020, the Interpol issued red notice against Ami Modi, the wife of Nirav
Modi. She is the prime suspect in the Rs 13,500 crore Punjab National Bank fraud case. A
red notice acts an international arrest warrant.
1. Highlights
The red notice was issued in connection with money laundering case that was registered
against Nirav Modi in India. Ami Modi had left India in 2018 before the investigating
agencies began their investigation in the PNB scam.
2. History
 The Enforcement Directorate name Ami an accused in March 2019
 Nirav Modi was named an “Economic Fugitive Offender” under the Fugitive economic
Offenders Act in December 2019
 A special court was set up under Prevention of Money Laundering Act. The court ordered to
confiscate movable and immovable properties of Nirav Modi.
3. INTERPOL
INTERPOL is International Criminal Police Organization. It was established in 1923. The
INTERPOL notices shall also be issued by International Criminal Tribunals, United Nations
and International Criminal Court.
4. INTERPOL Notices
The following are the INTERPOL notices
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209. MUDRA loan: Tamil Nadu Women top the list
According to the data provided by Ministry of Finance to Rajya Sabha, Tamil Nadu
topped the list in availing loans to women. It was followed by West Bengal and
Karnataka.
1. Highlights
According to the data produced by the Ministry of Finance, around 15 crore loans
amounting to Rs 4.78 lakh crores were disbursed to women borrowers since the
inception of Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana.
2. Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana

It was launched in 2015 to provide loans to non-corporate, small and micro enterprises.
Under the scheme, loans up to Rs 10 lakhs are provided. The loans are given by Regional
Rural Banks, Commercial banks, Small Finance Banks, Non-Banking Financial
Corporations, Micro-Financial Institutions.
3. MUDRA and COVID-19

The Government of India under Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan provided 2% interest rate
subvention for 12 months to prompt loan payees under MUDRA Scheme. Also, special
loans up to Rs 10,000 were provided to street vendors to restart their businesses that
were badly hit by COVID-19 lock down.
4. Issues
The Non-Performing Assets as a percentage of MUDRA loans has increased from 2.52%
in 2017-18 to 2.68% in 2018-19.
5. Way Forward
 Banks have to focus on capacity appraisal of the loans
 The banks should monitor the loans through the life cycle much more closely
 Financial Technologies have their own risks and challenges. These risks should be identified
at the earliest
 The micro finance institutions should broaden their client outreach.
August 26, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
210. Supreme Court: “Char Dham Pariyojana has caused long term
damage”
On August 26, 2020, the High-Powered Committee appointed by Supreme Court has
asked the Environment Ministry to take strict actions against the violation of forest and
wildlife laws by “Char Dham Pariyojana”.
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1. Highlights
The committee has said that the project has caused incalculable and long-term damages
to Himalayan Ecology. The Char Dham Pariyojana aims to connect major pilgrimage
sites. The committee has submitted two reports on the project.
2. Key findings of the report

 It disagreed the ideal width of 12 metres against 5.5 metres for hill roads
 Felling of trees in different stretches of the roads were illegally continuing since 2017.
According to rules, a project can continue its work only for a year after forest clearance
approval. Later, it is to be extended only after satisfactory progress report. These are under
Forest (Conservation) Act and NGT Act.
3. What are violations?

According to the report, the project has made the following violations
4. Char Dham Highway

It is an express National Highway with a minimum width of 10 metres in the state of
Uttarakhand. It will complement the proposed highway construction Char Dham Railway
by connecting the holy places Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri and Yamunotri.
211. Indian Table Tennis Star Poulomi Ghatak retires
On August 24, 2020, the table tennis star Poulomi Ghatak retired quietly. She had
represented India at the Commonwealth Games in 2006 and Common wealth
championships between 2000 and 2008. She entered Olympics at Sydney for the first
time when she was 16.
1. About Poulomi Ghatak

She is from West Bengal. She has won three junior national championships in 1996, 1998
and 1999. She had also won seven senior championships between 1998 and 2016. In
2018, she was ranked 22 by the Table Tennis Federation of India.
2. Achievements
The achievements and medals won by Poulomi are as follows
3. Table Tennis Federation of India

It was established in 1926. The sport is popular in the states of Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra,
West Bengal and Gujarat.
4. International Table Tennis Federation

It is the governing body of all the National Table Tennis Associations. There are six
continental federations operating under International Table Tennis federation. They are
all continental federations namely Asian Table Tennis Union of Asia. Oceania Table
Tennis Federation, European Table Tennis Federation, North American Table Tennis
federation, Latin American Table Tennis Federation, Asian Table Tennis Federation and
Table Tennis Federation of India. Out of all the table tennis federations, India has a
separate federation as the number of members here are the highest.
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212. GoI to identify illegal beneficiaries of PM-KISAN
On August 26, 2020 the Government of India announced that it is to track the illegal
beneficiaries of PM-KISAN scheme. The Ministry of Agriculture is to carry out the process.
1. How is the cracking to be done?

The Agriculture ministry is to obtain the data of central and state government employees
from the Ministry of Finance. The data is to be matched with the data with PM-KISAN list
of beneficiaries. Similarly, the data is to be checked with the income tax department as
well. The Agriculture ministry will check if any of the beneficiaries of PM-KISAN scheme
are income-tax payers.
2. Why is it done?
The PM-KISAN scheme provides Rs 6000 to farmers in three instalments annually. The
scheme has excluded retired and serving government employees, income tax payees,
professionals like doctors, chartered accountants, lawyers, public representatives,
former parliamentarians and other people with higher economic status. It has come to
the notice of Agriculture ministry that these ineligible persons are also receiving PM-
KISAN benefits illegally.
3. PM-KISAN beneficiaries
The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Agriculture. However, the responsibility of
the identification of beneficiaries lies with the State and Union Territories. The scheme
mainly targets small and marginal farmers
4. PM-KISAN scheme
All the states are implementing the scheme except West Bengal. The scheme was
revised in 2019. The revised scheme aimed to cover 2 crores of farmers.
5. Similar Programmes by other states

 Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana
It is implemented in Madhya Pradesh

It aims to provide reliefs to farmers by providing the differentials between MSPs and market
prices
 It is implemented in Madhya Pradesh

 It aims to provide reliefs to farmers by providing the differentials between MSPs and market
prices
 Rythu Bandhu Scheme
It is implemented by the Telangana Government

It provides Rs 4,000 per acre every season to all the farmers of the state
 It is implemented by the Telangana Government

 It provides Rs 4,000 per acre every season to all the farmers of the state
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 KALIA
It is Kurushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation

It is implemented in Odisha by the Odisha State Government
It commits to provide Rs 10,000 a year in two instalments.
 It is Kurushak Assistance for Livelihood and Income Augmentation

 It is implemented in Odisha by the Odisha State Government
 It commits to provide Rs 10,000 a year in two instalments.
213. AFSPA extended for six more months in Assam
The Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 is to be extended for six more months in
the state of Assam.
1. Why is AFSPA extended?

The recent insurgent attacks on security forces is the main reason for AFSPA being
extended in the state. Several illegal arms and ammunition have been recovered from
many places in the state.
2. AFSPA
The act gives special powers to the armed forces to maintain public order in “disturbed
areas”. According to the act, the disturbed area is declared by issuing notification under
Section 3 of AFSPA. The disturbance could be due to racial violence, communal violence,
clash between two groups, etc.
3. Background
The AFSPA act was enacted in 1958. It was enforced in all the seven sister states of the
North East one by one. They are Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, Assam,
Meghalaya, Tripura and Mizoram after these states were formed. It was also imposed in
Punjab in 1983 and later withdrawn in 1997. In 1990, the act was applied to Jammu and
Kashmir and has been in force since then.
4. Disturbed Areas (Special Courts) Act, 1976

According to the act, once declared disturbed area, the status quo in the area has to be
maintained for at least three months.
5. Key Provisions of AFSPA

 Any suspect shall be arrested under the act without warrant
 The armed forces can prohibit gathering of five or more persons
 The armed forces can use forces till his death if a person is a repeated offender and tries to
disturb the peace in the area
 The act allows the armed forces to stop any vehicle and search
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214. Average Monthly Income of workers under MGNREGA doubled
during lock down
The CRISIL report says that the average income of Mahatma Gandhi National Rural
Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) has doubled during COVID-19 lock down.

The period of April-July witnessed 46% growth in work execution under the scheme. The
average per day wage increased by 12% according to the report. The push to the
scheme has been higher in the states of Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Haryana,
Odisha and Gujarat. The work allocation in these states were more than 50% in the first
four months.
2. Budget Allocation
In 2020-21, the GoI allocated Rs 61,500 crores in Union Budget 2020-21 and later
increased the allocation to Rs 40,000 crores. The additional fund was allocated under
3. Migrant Crisis and MGNREGA

Nearly eight crore migrant workers returned to their villages during COVID-19 lock down.
The GoI planned to use MGNREGA to provide livelihood to these migrants. However,
there were several challenges in implementing the scheme
4. Challenges
 The 2020-21 budget allocation is the highest in the history of MGNREGA. The allocation
amounts to 0.47% of GDP. But still, this is much lower than World Bank recommendation of
1.7% of GDP for the optimal functioning of the programme.
 There are issues related to fake job cards, inclusion of fictitious names, delays in making job
entries, missing entries, etc.
5. About the scheme

 It is the largest work guarantee scheme in the world
 The scheme says that at least one-third of beneficiaries should be women
 The MGNREGA is a demand driven scheme. It has legal provisions to guarantee work to any
rural adult within 15 days of demanding.
 It enables self selection of workers
 It has decentralised planning with the Panchayati Raj playing the major role in planning and
executing the works.
6. CRISIL
CRISIL is Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited. It provides policy advisories,
information, reports, ratings, etc.
215. E-Auction Portal launched for Kashmir Saffron
In order to promote the trading of GI-tagged Kashmir Saffron, the Department of

Agriculture operating under the Ministry of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare has created
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an e-auction portal in collaboration with NSE-IT. The Department has created the portal
under the aegis of India International Kashmir Saffron Trading Centre.
1. Highlights
The main aim of the portal is to make sure the buyers have quality access to Kashmir
Saffron. The portal will help in hassle free e-trading between the registered growers and
buyers.
2. Kashmir Saffron
It is known for its quality and aroma all over the world. Lately, it has been witnessing an
invasion by far more inexpensive Iranian saffron. Thus, the GoI had GI tagged Kashmiri
Saffron very recently. This will help the Saffron sustain the competition and will also help
to boost the exports.
3. Why GI Tag?
The features of Kashmir Saffron makes it unique from the rest of the saffron cultivated in
different parts of the world. The different features of Kashmir saffron are as follows
4. Types of Kashmir Saffron

There are three types of saffron namely Lachha Saffron, Guchhi Saffron, Mongra Saffron.
216. WHO declares Africa free of Wild Polio
On August 25, 2020, the World Health Organisation declared Africa polio-free. The
disease is now found only in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
1. Highlights
Nigeria is the last African country to be declared free from wild polio. More than 95% of
Africa population have now been immunised. This was the major condition set by the
Regional Certification Commission to declare Africa polio free.
2. Current Scenario
Now, only the vaccine derived polio virus prevails in Africa. Around 177 such cases have
been identified. This is a rare form of virus that mutates from the Oral Polio Vaccine. It is
capable of spreading to under immunised communities.
3. How did Africa eliminate Polio?

In 1996, around 75,000 children were affected by Polio in Africa. The same year “Kick
Polio Out of Africa” was launched by Nelson Mandela. This mobilised millions of health
workers in the continent increasing awareness about the vaccine. The programme was
backed by international organisations such as Rotary International.
4. Polio in India
India was officially declared polio-free along with the rest of the South East Asian region.
However, with the rising cases in Pakistan, there are dangers of the virus getting
imported into India.
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5. Pulse Polio Programme
This is the flagship programme of the Indian Government to eradicate Polio. It was
launched in 1995 under the resolution of global initiative of polio eradication that was
adopted by World Health Assembly.
217. India-Bangladesh to open inland waterways
India and Bangladesh will open new inland waterway from September 3, 2020. This is
based on the agreement signed by the countries in May 2020 on Inland Water Transit
and Trade. The number of IBP (Indo-Bangladesh Protocol) routes were increased from
eight to ten.
1. Highlights
India’s North East is a prisoner of Geography. Being landlocked by ring-fenced
neighbours such as China, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Myanmar, its land-based connection
with India is narrow. This connection is the 22-km Siliguri corridor. It is also called the
Chicken’s neck.
2. India to use Bangladesh rivers to unlock the North East

Several agreements have been signed between India and Bangladesh to unlock the
North. Also, several connectivity projects have been launched. They are as follows
218. KIRAN: Mental Rehabilitation Health line to be launched by Social

Justice Ministry
On August 27, 2020, the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment will launch mental
health rehabilitation centre through video conference. The helpline number “1800-599-
0019” will help in providing psychological support, psychological crisis management,
early screening, mental wellbeing, first-aid, and will also help to prevent deviant
behaviour.
1. Highlights
The initiative targets people experiencing depression, anxiety, traumatic stress disorder,
panic attack, post-traumatic stress disorder, suicidal thoughts, substance abuse and
mental health emergency.
2. Government measures towards mental illness

 In 1992, Government of India launched the National Mental Health Programme to improve the
mental health status of India. The programme had three components as follows
Treatment
Rehabilitation
Prevention and promotion of positive mental health
 Treatment
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 Rehabilitation
 Prevention and promotion of positive mental health
 In 1987, the Mental Health Act was enacted. Later the act was repealed in 2017
 The Sustainable Development Goals, which India is also a signatory talks has targets 3.4 and
3.5 talks about mental illness
 WHO launched Mental Health Atlas in 2017.
3. Mental Health Care Act, 2017

 The act provides “Right to make an Advance Directive”. Under the act, the patient can state
how to be treated during a mental health situation
 It also provides “Right to appoint a Nominated Representative”
 Apart from this, the act also provides the following rights to the mental patients
Right to access mental health care

Right to community living
Right to free and quality services
Right to community living
Right to protection from cruel, degrading and inhuman treatment
Right to legal aid
Right to live in safe, hygienic environment that has basic amenities.
 Right to access mental health care

 Right to community living
 Right to free and quality services
 Right to community living
 Right to protection from cruel, degrading and inhuman treatment
 Right to legal aid
 Right to live in safe, hygienic environment that has basic amenities.
 The act prohibits Electroconvulsive Therapy without anaesthesia.
 Under the act, attempt to commit suicide is not an offence.
219. Export Preparedness Index, 2020 released by NITI Aayog
On August 26, 2020, the NITI Aayog released the Export Preparedness Index (EPI). The
think tank was partnered by Institute of Competitiveness.
1. Highlights
Gujarat has topped the index followed by Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu. This is mainly
because of their location near the coast. The other three coastal states that featured in
the top ten rankings are Kerala, Odisha and Karnataka.
1.1. Policy Parameters

Based on policy parameters, Maharashtra topped the list followed by Gujarat and
Jharkhand
1.2. Export Ecosystem

Based on export ecosystem, Maharashtra topped the index followed by Odisha and
Rajasthan.
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1.3. Export Performance
Based on export performance, Mizoram led the index followed by Gujarat and
Maharashtra
2. Per Capita Exports

The per capital export of India stood at 241 USD. The per capita export of South Korea
was 11,900 USD and that of China was 18,000 USD. The report says that India has huge
potential to boost exports.
3. About the Index

There are four pillars in framing the index. They are as follows
220. BRICS Industry Ministers Video Meeting in 5G and AI
The Industrial Ministers of BRICS countries attended video meeting on 5G, industrial
internet and Artificial Intelligence.
1. Highlights
During the meet, China urged the BRICS countries to strengthen cooperation on digital
transformation. China also highlighted that BRICS countries should cooperate to promote
economic survey, resume work and production, guarantee medical supplies and promote
economic development. According to the BRICS leaders, there is need for enhancing and
strengthening supply chain and abilities of the countries to create good development
environment.
2. India-China
Currently the relationship between India and China is going through a rough phase after
Galwan Valley clash in 2020. India recently banned some of the Chinese applications and
has put strict scrutiny on foreign investments from neighbouring countries.
3. BRICS
The economies that are a part of the BRICS grouping are Brazil, Russia, India, China and
South Africa. The population of BRICS makes up 43% of the entire global population.
During the 11th BRICS Summit that was held in 2019 in Brazil, PM Modi announced to
host BRICS Digital Health Summit. The summit will focus on innovative solutions to
healthy solutions. India also proposed to hold the first BRICS Water Ministers Meet in
India. The main aim of the BRICS grouping is to boost economic and political
cooperation.
August 27, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
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221. Facts Box: India-Vietnam Joint Commission Meeting
The Joint Commission meeting between India and Vietnam was recently held virtually. It
was chaired by the External Affairs Minister of India Dr S Jai Shankar and his counter part
Mr Pham Binh Minh, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Vietnam.
1. Highlights
The countries discussed on closer cooperation in the areas of space, marine, nuclear
energy and technologies. Also, they shared their views on global and regional issues to
coordinate closely in international platforms such as United Nations Security Council,
ASEAN. It is to be noted that both India and Vietnam are the current non-permanent
members of the UNSC. They will serve till 2021.
2. Indo Pacific Oceans Initiative

It was proposed by PM Modi in 2019 at the East Asia Summit. By this, India is projecting
that it is ready to play a bigger role in the region where China is pushing its military
assertiveness.
3. India-Vietnam
The year 2017 is marked as the 10th anniversary of India-Vietnam strategic partnership.
Currently, the bilateral trade exchanges between India and Vietnam are 13 billion USD.
India is planning to increase it to 15 billion USD.
4. Defence Cooperation
India and Vietnam hold Naval Exercises called the MILAN. The countries are part of the
ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus, called the ADMM+
5. Oil and Gas

The ONGC Videsh Limited and the Vietnam Petroleum are jointly exploring for oil and gas
in the Exclusive Economic Zone of Vietnam. There is a issue over the exploration as
China claims the region to be part of its territory.
222. National Health Authority releases Draft Health Data Management

Policy
On August 26, 2020, the National Health Authority released the Draft Health Data
Management Policy under the National Digital Health Mission.
1. Highlights
The main objective of the policy is to provide adequate guidance and set framework to
secure processing of personal and sensitive personal data of individuals.
2. Objectives
The key objective of the policy are as follows
3. Sensitive Personal Data

According to the policy the following are considered as sensitive personal data
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4. Consent Framework
The policy includes a consent framework in relation to collecting, processing and
governing of the patient data. The policy provides separate framework for child and an
adult. A person below 18 years of age is treated as child by the policy. It also provides
separate framework to process data of mentally ill patients.
5. Health ID
The policy provides a Health ID for every patient at no cost. The personal data of the
patients are to be linked to the Health ID of the patient. The policy provides an option of
opting out of the NDHE by cancelling the Health ID.
6. National Health Infrastructure Registry

It shall deploy health facility auditors to verify services offered by health facilities. It shall
authenticate persons claiming to be the owner of a health facility to update and maintain
details of facility online and e-sign digital documents.
223. GoI to deliver services of UMANG Application through Common

Service Centres
On August 27, 2020, the National E-Governance Division and the Common Service
Centres (CSC) signed a pact to facilitate the delivery of UMANG application services
through CSCs. By this, the services of the application will reach the citizens easily as the
network of Common Service Centres are strong with more than 3.75 lakhs connected
together.
1. Highlights
The agreement will help to benefit people who do not have access to smart phones or
those who are not comfortable in accessing application based e-services on their own.
The UMANG application was a huge success. It reached more than 3.12 crores. The GoI
through this move is trying to reach the unprivileged, illiterates and the vulnerables.
2. UMANG application
UMANG is Unified Mobile Application for New Age Governance. The mobile application
was launched by PM Modi to provide secure access to the citizens at multiple
government services. UMANG is a key component of Digital India initiative
3. Key Features of UMANG

 It aims to bring 162 government services in a single application
 The citizens shall access their Employees Provident Fund Organization services and shall
apply for new Permanent Account Number and also can register themselves under Pradhan
Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana using the application
 The application supports 13 Indian languages.
 It also provides integration of Aadhaar, Digilocker and more
4. Services
The UMANG application mainly provides services in the field of agriculture, education,
health, utilities, pension. The services provides are as follows
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224. Rs 1,200 crore plan to link Ladakh with National Grid
The Government of India is implementing Rs 1,200 crore project to link the regions of
Ladakh and Leh with the National Power Grid. These regions due to their isolated
locations remain power deficit regions receiving only 5 hours of power supply from diesel
generators and very few micro hydel projects.
1. Highlights
The Srinagar-Leh transmission line is being extended to power Zanskar and Nubra
regions. The Rural Electrification Corporation is to implement the project. The 200-km
transmission line carrying 220 KV is to run across one of world’s coldest inhabitations.
The line will also run through Khardung La, the world’s highest motorable pass.
2. Significance
Connecting Nubra with the National Power Grid is important as it is located on the west
of Siachen Glacier. It is to be noted that the Siachen Glacier was opened for tourists in
2019. Also, it is important for military purposes. The region is one of the highest
battlegrounds in the world.
3. Background
In 2019, PM Modi dedicated the Srinagar-Kargil-Leh transmission line to the country. Now
the regions Nubra and Zanskar of Ladakh are to be connected to this line.
4. National Grid
It is a high voltage electric power transmission network that connects power stations and
major sub stations. It is owned, operated and maintained by Power Grid Corporation of
India. The grid is one of the largest state-owned power grids in the world with 307.8 GW
of installed power generation capacity.
5. Cross Border links

India is currently importing electricity from Bhutan. It is exporting power to Bangladesh,
Nepal and Myanmar.
6. Carbon Neutral Ladakh

The extension of electricity power grid to Nubra is a part of GoI plan of making Ladakh
carbon neutral. The Prime Minister during his Independence Day speech mentioned that
the efforts to make Ladakh Carbon neutral are ON.
225. Russia released testing video of the largest ever Hydrogen bomb
blast
On August 27, 2020, Russia released a 40-minute video of detonation of the world’s
most powerful hydrogen bomb. The bomb was called the Tsar Bomb. It is believed to be
3,333 times more destructive than that of the Hiroshima Nagasaki Atom bombs Little
Boy and Fat Man.
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1. Highlights
The Hydrogen bomb was first tested over Novaya Zemlya, an archipelago in the Arctic
Ocean. The video released was titled “Top Secret: Test of a clean hydrogen bomb with a
yield of 50 mega tonnes.” The video shows how the bomb was built and carried to
testing centre.
2. Hydrogen Bombs
A Hydrogen Bomb derives its energy by nuclear fusion reactions. On the other hand, an
atom bomb derives its energy from nuclear fusion reaction. Hydrogen bombs have so far
not been used in any war.
3. Other Countries
The countries that have conducted hydrogen bomb tests are Britain, US, Russia, France
and China. In 2013, North Korea irked the whole world that it has successfully conducted
the test of a Hydrogen bomb.
4. Russia and its nuclear tests

According to Stockholm International, Russia has conducted 456 atomic and
thermonuclear tests around Kazakhstan between 1949 and 1989. More than 300 test
explosions were conducted underground after 1961. Russia conducted the last atomic
weapon test in 1989 that resulted large amounts of radioactive noble gases Krypton and
Xenon leaking in to the atmosphere.
5. India
India has no ongoing tests or projects on hydrogen bombs. However, India is operating
one of the fastest growing Nuclear Weapon Programme according to Stockholm
International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). According to the institute, India is
spending 2.3 billion USD on its defence programmes which is twice as that of Pakistan.
226. GoI sets up Expert Panel to redefine DRDO
On August 26, 2020, the Government of India set up an expert panel to redefine the
roles and responsibilities of Defence Research Development Organization.
1. Highlights
The panel is being set up to fulfil the aim of GoI to reduce Indian military dependence on
imports. This is because, currently India is the second largest arms importer in the world
after Saudi Arabia.
2. Roles of the Panel

The panel will study and review the duties of the DRDO labs. It will redefine the duties
based on the current and futuristic battlefield needs. It will also focus on minimizing
overlap of technologies between the labs. The committee will review the work of 57
DRDO labs since their inception.
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3. Rama Rao Committee
P Rama Rao Committee was set up in 2008,. The committee recommended setting up of
commercial arm of the organization. The commercial arm was provided with a capital of
Rs 2 crores. The arm will deal with spin off products and technologies that are meant for
civilian use.
227. PRATHEEKSHA: First Marine Ambulance launched by Kerala

Government
Around thirty fishermen lose heir lives at sea in a year due to accidents during fishing.
Under this context, the Government of Kerala has launched Marine Ambulance services
to provide more efficient rescue.
1. Highlights
The Marine Ambulance specializes in providing first aid and also rescue operations. The
ambulance is capable of providing critical care to up to five people simultaneously. The
ambulances run on Scania engines and can run at maximum speed of 14 knots. The
ambulance has been designed under the standards of Indian Registry of Shipping. The
other marine ambulances that are to be deployed are Pratyasha and Karunya. The
ambulances to be deployed are as follows
2. Funds
The funds to operate the ambulances are to be provided as follows
3. Corporate Social Responsibility Funds

In India, the concept of Corporate Social Responsibility is governed by clause 135 of the
Companies act. The CSR provisions are applicable to companies whose annual turn over
is more than Rs 1,000 crores. The provisions under the act makes its mandatory for the
companies to set up a CSR committee that will recommends CSR policies and also
monitor from time to time.
4. Injeti Srinivas Committee

The committee was set up under Secretary of Corporate Affairs Ministry to make
recommendations on Corporate Social Responsibility. The following recommendations
were made
228. 41st GST Council meet
On August 27, 2020, the finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman chaired the 41st GST
Council meet. The council discussed states’ compensation and revenue losses.
1. Highlights
The following were the key discussions at the 41st GST Council meet
2. GST Compensation Options

The Central Government has given two compensation options to the states
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3. What is GST Compensation?
As a part of GST reforms, GST Compensation Cess was introduced through GST
(Compensation to States) Act, 2017. The cess was levied on inter and intra state supply
of goods such as coal, tobacco, aerated drinks and automobiles. For 5 years. The
collected cess is to go to the loss incurring states on the basis on a formula as
compensation.
4. What is the current issue?

In the first four months of this fiscal year, the compensation cess collected was 33% less
than that of 2019. It was Rs 21,940 crores. However, the GST Compensation Cess
requirement stands at RS 26,000 crores per month. This has increased due to COVID-19
pandemic.
5. Previous GST meet

In the previous GST meet, the council decided to waive off fees for late filing returns
between July 2017 and January 2020. This was to minimize the impact of COVID-19 crisis
on MSMEs (Micro, small and Medium Enterprises).
229. 78 new routes under UDAN 4.0
On August 27, 2020, the Ministry of Civil Aviation sanctioned 78 new routes under 4th
round of regional connectivity scheme (RCS). So far 766 new routes have been
sanctioned under the scheme.
1. Highlights
The fourth round of UDAN scheme was launched in December 2019 focusing on North
Eastern Regions, Islands and Hilly states. The operation of seaplanes and helicopters
were also incorporated under the scheme.
2. UDAN
UDAN is Ude Desh Ka Aam Naagrik. It was launched under Ministry of Civil Aviation in
2016. The main objective of the scheme is to develop regional aviation market. It
intends to create affordable economically viable and portable flights in regional routes.
3. UDAN 1.0
During UDAN 1.0, five airline companies were awarded 128 routes to 70 airports. This
included 36 newly made operational airports.
4. UDAN 2.0
The Ministry of Civil Aviation in 2018 announced 73 underserved and unserved airports.
For the first time, during the phase, helipads were launched.
5. UDAN 3.0
During this phase, tourism routes were included. It also included seaplanes that
connected Water Aerodromes. Also, the north-east routes were brought under UDAN.
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6. What is International UDAN?
It is an extension of the Domestic UDAN. It aims to connect smaller cities directly to key
foreign destinations. The Open Skies policies are to be exercised under the scheme.
Open sky policy is where India and other Asian countries allow direct and unlimited
flights to and from 18 Indian destinations.
230. GoI launches National GIS-enabled Land Bank System
On August 27, 2020, the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry launched National GIS
enabled Land Bank System. GIS is Geographic Information System
1. Highlights
The platform is to provide database of industrial clusters all over India. It will serve as
one-stop solution to free and easy accessibility of industrial information. The platform is
to be supported by National Centre of Geo-Informatics, Invest India, National E-
Governance Division, Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology,
Bhaskaracharya Institute for Space Application and Geo-Informatics.
2. About the system

The platform has mapped 3,300 industrial parks covering 4,75,000 hectares of land. It
holds information related to forest, raw material heat maps, drainage and multiple layers
of connectivity. The platform will serve as a prototype. Steps are being taken to
integrate other states and union territories into the platform by December 2020.
3. Industrial Information System

The IIS portal is GIS enabled database of industrial clusters and areas across the states.
The IIS will provide links to State GIS portals and State Land banks.
August 28, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
231. Department of Pension and Pensioners Welfare integrates E-

Pension Payment with Digi Locker
On August 26, 2020, the Department of Pension and Pensioners Welfare decided to
integrate electronic pension payment order with Digi Locker. This will enhance Ease of
Living of the Central Government Pensioners.
1. Highlights
The integrated system will generate Pension Payment Orde (PPO) and will eliminate
delays in reaching PPOs to the new pensioners. The system has been created with
“Bhavishya Software”.
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2. Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana
The scheme was launched for senior citizens aged 60 years and above in 2017. Under
the scheme, one can invest a maximum of Rs 15 lakhs. Aadhaar has been made
mandatory to avail the benefits of the scheme.
3. Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana

The scheme was launched in 2015. It provides an insurance policy to people belonging
to under privileged sections of the society. It can be availed by individual aged between
18 years and 70 years. The scheme is highly beneficial for accidental deaths.
4. Atal Pension Yojana

It was launched in 2015. The main objective of the scheme was to create universal social
security system for all Indians. This includes the under privileged, poor and the workers
in unorganized sector. The scheme is administered by Pension Fund Regulatory and
Development Authority.
5. Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana

It was launched in 2015 in Kolkata. It is a life insurance scheme and was first introduced
by the former Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. It was for people belonging to age 18 and 50
years of age.
232. Marieke Lucas Rijneveld: The youngest author to win International

Booker Prize
The Dutch author Marieke Lucas Rijneveld has become the youngest to win the
International Booker Prize. He won the prize for his debut novel “The Discomfort of
Evening”.
1. Highlights
The author is to share the prize along with the book’s translator Michele Hutchinson.
Lucas is the third author to be nominated to the International Booker Prize after Tommy
Wieringa in 2019 and Harry Mulisch in 2007.
2. Popular and important Literary Awards in India

The following are the most important Literary awards in India
3. Official Language
According to Article 343, the official language of India is Hindi or Devanagari. In 1963,
the constitutional amendment of The Official Languages Act, 1963 allowed the
continuation English alongside Hindi as official language.
4. Eighth Schedule of Constitution

The Eighth Schedule of Constitution lists the official language of India. There are 22
official languages in India currently. Of these, 14 were included in Constitution. Later
Sindhi was added in 1967 through 21st Constitutional Amendment. This was followed by
Konkani, Manipuri and Nepali in 1992 by the 71st constitutional amendment. Bodo,
Maithili, Dogri and Santhali were added through 92nd constitutional amendment act in
2004.
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233. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana completes six years of journey
On August 28, 2020, Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana completed its six years of journey.
The Ministry of Finance has shared its achievements in a series of tweets.
1. Highlights
The scheme is a national mission for financial inclusion. Around 40.35 crore beneficiaries
were banked under Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana since its inception. As on August 19,
2020, of the accounts opened under the scheme, 63.6% were rural accounts and 55.2%
were women accounts. A total of 29.75 crore RuPay cards were issued to Pradhan Mantri
Jan Dhan Yojana account holders.
2. COVID-19
Under Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalayan Yojana, total of Rs 30,705 crores were credited to
rural women PMJDY accounts. In all, 8 crore PMJDY received Direct Benefit Transfer from
government under different schemes. This was done to help the under privileged during
lock down. The amounts deposited were as follows
3. Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana

It was launched in 2014. The scheme was a huge success as it opened 12.54 crores of
accounts within a year of its launch. It was also certified by Guinness World Records for
its achievement that 18,096,130 accounts were opened within one week as a part of
Financial Inclusion Campaign.
234. Government to bring 11 ordinances during Monsoon Session of

Parliament
The Government of India is to bring 11 ordinances in Parliament during Monsoon session

that is to commence in September 14, 2020.
1. Highlights
The Monsoon session is to continue till October 1, 2020. In all 18 sittings are to be held
in both the houses. In the history of Indian Parliament since 1952, the galleries and the
chambers of both houses are to be used.
2. COVID-19 measures
The Parliament will use large display screens, Ultra Violet Germicidal irradiation, special
cables between the two houses, polycarbonate separators.
3. Bills
Around 20 bills line up for the session. They are as follows
4. Ordinances
An Ordinance lapses if its is not passed within six months of its promulgation. Here are
the list of ordnances that has to be passed
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235. Supreme Court: “States can make sub categories in reserved
categories”
On August 27, 2020, a five-judge constitutional bench of Supreme Court ruled that the
states can sub classify list of Scheduled Caste, Socially and Educationally Backward
Classes and Scheduled Tribes to provide preferential treatment to those that are
deprived within.
1. Highlights
The bench disagreed with the 2004 judgement of Supreme Court in E V Chinnaiah Vs
State of Andhra Pradesh.
2. Previous Judgements
The similar previous judgement that were pronounced in the Indian Judiciary System are
as follows
The Court said that the states have complete powers to grant reservation benefits to SCs
and STs under Article 15(4) , Article 341(1), Article 16(4) and Article 342(1).
4. About Supreme court

The Regulating Act of 173 established the Supreme Court of India at Calcutta. In 1823,
Supreme Courts were established in Bombay and Madras as well. Currently, there are 31
judges in the Supreme Court of India. In 2019, the four more judges were added to the
strength of the apex court.
236. Arunachal Pradesh passes resolution to bring the state under

Schedule VI of Indian Constitution
On August 28, 2020, the Arunachal Pradesh State Government passed the resolution to
bring the state under Schedule VI of Indian Constitution. The State is to initiate talks
soon with the Assam State Government over border issues.
1. Schedule VI
The sixth schedule of the constitution provides for the administration of tribal areas in
Assam, Tripura, Meghalaya and Mizoram. It safeguards the rights of tribal population in
these states. It was included based on the reports of Bardoloi Committee that was
formed by the Constituent Assembly.
1.1. Bardoloi Committee

 The committee said that there is a need for a system of administration that will allow tribal
areas to become developed
 It also called for protection of the tribal areas from exploitation of people living in the plains.
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2. Autonomous District Councils
The schedule gives tribal to exercise executive and legislative powers in their districts
through these councils. The Central Government has given varying degree of autonomy
to these councils within the powers of State Legislature. In other words, the state
government cannot interfere with the decisions taken by these councils within their
powers.
3. Key Features
 The Governor of the state is empowered to organize and re-organize autonomous districts.
He has powers to increase or decrease the areas operating under the council and also can
change their names and define their boundaries
 Every district operating under the council consists of 30 members. Of these four are
nominated by the governor and the rest 26 are elected based on adult franchise.
4. Inner Line Permit System

It is an obligatory to those living outside the protected areas. Most of the protected
areas are in the north east. They are as follows
237. Centre for Science and Environment: India recycles only 1% of its
demolition and construction waste
The Centre for Science and Environment recently released a report on construction
waste, according to which, India recycles only 1% of its demolition and construction
waste.

India generates around 150 million tonnes of construction and demolition waste every
year. However, the official recycling capacity is just about 1% which is 6,500 tonnes per
day.
2. Concerns
The Sustainable Urbanisation Programme of Government of India says that bricks,
concrete, metal wastes from construction bodies are choking water bodies, public places
and green areas. The National clean Air Programme says that the toxic dust particles are
polluting the air while the cities have to reduce Particulate Matter pollution by 20%-30%
by 2024.
3. Legislation on Construction wastes

 The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) allowed the use of concrete from recycled material.
 The Construction and Demolition Waste Rules and Regulations, 2016 mandated the reuse of
recycled material
4. Swachh Bharat
The Swachh Bharat Mission recognizes the need to Construction and Demolition waste
management. Construction and Demolition Waste Management is one of the major
criteria to award points in Swachh Survekshan 2021. Swachh Survekshan is ranking of
cities based on their implementation of Swachh Bharat Mission.
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5. Construction and Demolition Waste Management Rules, 2016
The rules were framed by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in
2016. It applies to everyone generating construction waste. The rules provide separate
duties for waste generators, contractors and service providers, state government and
local authorities, central pollution control board, state pollution control board, pollution
control committee and central ministries. It also provides standards for construction and
demolition waste. It also provides facility for processing and recycling facilities.
238. India’s first International Women Trade Centre to be set up in

Kerala
Kerala is to set up its first International Women Trade Centre in terms of the United
Nations Sustainable Development goals. This is first of its kind in India.
1. Highlights
The Centre will accelerate women entrepreneurship. It will provide a safe place away
from home to start a business, expand and get their products marketed globally. The
Women Trade Centre will enable women entrepreneurs to participate in international
trade, enhance competitiveness, and enjoy greater economic benefits.
2. Green Park Initiative

It was established in 2013 by the State Government of Kerala. It focuses on gender
equality and empowerment in the state. It is a platform for research, policy analysis,
capacity development, social and economic initiative. The following are the initiatives
being run by the park
3. Women Entrepreneurship Platform

It was launched by NITI Aayog on International Women’s Day in 2018. The platform helps
to build vibrant ecosystem for women and help them realise their entrepreneurial
aspirations. It addresses bottlenecks faced by both established and aspiring women
entrepreneurs. It powers vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem to enable industry
collaborations, mentors, and peer-to-peer connect.
239. PFRDA: Around 2 million opt for Atal Pension Yojana
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) announced that
around 2 million people subscribed for Atal Pension Yojana between April 2020 and
August 2020. It has brought the base of government backed pension scheme to 21
million.
1. Highlights
The PFRDA also announced that the Assets Under Management (AUM) of the National
Pension Scheme is set to touch Rs 5 lakh crores by the end of September. Currently, the
AUM is Rs 4.85 lakh crores and is to grow at 34% annually. The 11-year compounded
annual growth rate of different schemes in India are as follows
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2. Concerns
The mortality experiences in country has been increasing. However, the improvements
in quality of life have not kept pace. It is expected that the dependency ratio which is 1:7
currently is to increase to 1:5 in 2030. Dependency ratio is used to measure pressure on
productive population.
3. Way Forward
The cover in unorganised sector should be increased. The pensionable age should be
extended and should be the contributing levels. The minimum age to access benefits
should be prescribed.
4. Mercer Global Pension Index

In 2019, India stood at 32nd position out of 37 countries. It has improved as compared to
2018. It was at 33rd position in 2018. It was because of greater flexibility in managing
retirement, reporting around private pension plans and policies that drafted inclusive
and sustainable pension systems.
240. Assam to set up Skill University at Mangaldoi
On August 27, 2020, the Assam Cabinet passed a resolution to set up a Skill University
at MAngaldoi in Assam with an investment of Rs 900 crores. The other decisions taken at
the cabinet are as follows
1. About Skill University

The University is to be set up with financial assistance from Asian Development Bank. It
is the first skill university in the country. It is to hold a capacity of 10,000 seats. Around
80% of the seats are to be reserved for students of Assam and 20% for North Eastern
states.
2. Arundoi Scheme
The scheme was launched in August 2020. It was launched to help in women financial
empowerment. The scheme is to benefit more than 17 lakh families. The State
Government of Assam has allocated Rs 280 crores for the scheme. It is to provide
priority to divorced women, separated women, widows, and unmarried women. The only
condition is that the beneficiaries of the scheme should have annual income less than Rs
2 lakhs per annum.
3. Assam Heritage Protection and Preservation Bill

The bill aims to provide protection, conservation, preservation, maintenance,
restoration, development and promotion of the State Heritage sites. The sites to be
protected under the bill includes monasteries, naamghars, darghas, stupas, churches
and other habitational structures that have traditional architecture.
4. Dhansiri
The river is a tributary of Brahmaputra. It forms a boundary between the Karbi Anglong
and Nagaland.
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241. Japan’s longest serving Prime Minister Shinzo Abe resigns
On August 28, 2020, the longest serving Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe resigned
due to health issues. He was suffering from ulcerative colitis.
1. Shinzo Abe
Shinzo Abe is the longest serving Prime Minister in the history of Japan. He served from
2006-2007 and also from 2012-2020. It was Abe who introduced the concept of
Abenomics. He was the first Japanese Prime Minister to attend India’s Republic day
parade in Delhi as chief guest.
2. Abenomics
It refers to set of economic policies that was introduced the Japanese Prime Minister
Shinzo Abe. The policies aimed at increasing money supply in the country, enacting
reforms, boosting government spending.
3. Ulcerative Colitis
It is a chronic digestive disease that is characterised by inflammation of inner lining of
colon.
August 29, 2020
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242. Facts Box: NITI Aayog launches Nationally Determined

Contributions Transport Initiative for Asia (NDC-TIA)
The NITI Aayog recently launched Nationally Determined Contributions Transport

Initiative for Asia (NDC-TIA). The initiative was launched to decarbonize transport and
provide technical support on Green Gas emission reduction measures.
1. Highlights
The initiative is supported by International Climate Initiative of German Ministry of
Environment. The NDC-TIA team is to closely work with Government agencies,
researchers, local decision makers, think tanks, industry experts, and civil society
organizations.
2. About the Programme

The main objective of the programme is to support and regulate policies to promote
electric vehicle charging infrastructure and smooth wide scale adoption of Electric
Vehicles in India. Also, the programme will provide electric vehicle policy
recommendations. It aims to support NDC targets through target sector.
3. NDC-TIA
The project will include three countries namely India, China and Vietnam for a period of
2020-24. It will provide a consistent strategy for effective policies of decarbonizing
transport. It will make contributions and increase ambition in transport section.
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4. NDC Targets of India
The following are the NDC targets set to be achieved by 2030
5. Major Pollution issues in India

Stubble Burning: This is mainly in the states of Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan. It emits
carbon monoxide, methane, volatile organic compounds
243. Facts Box: ASEAN-India Business Council Meet
The Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Piyush Goyal addressed the Association of
South East Asian Nation-India Business Council meet.
1. Highlights
During the meet, minister emphasized on 3Cs namely Cooperation, Collaboration and
Commitment. He also highlighted to use full trade potential addressing concerns of
members and businesses. It also agreed to review ASEAN-Trade in Goods agreement
signed in 2009.
2. India-ASEAN trade
In the year 2020, India’s trade with ASEAN countries touched 86.86 billion USD. The
trade increased mainly due to the ASEAN-India Free Trade Area agreement that was
signed in 2009. It came into effect in 2010.
3. Act East Policy

India is focusing on Act East Policy to reach the ASEAN countries. In fact, the Act East
policy of India was unveiled at the 12th ASEAN-India Summit in 2014.
4. India-ASEAN Maritime Cooperation

The maritime cooperation is highly important for both the partners as China is increasing
its influence in the Indo-Pacific region. The following are the major forums through which
India and ASEAN are exhibiting their maritime strategies
5. Other cooperation
India actively participates in the following ASEAN led events
244. August 29: National Sports Day
Every year, India celebrates National Sports Day on August 29 to commemorate the
birth anniversary of the legendary hockey player Dhyan Chand. He was born on August
29, 1905.
1. About Dhyan Chand

Dhyan Chand was known as “The Wizard” and had scored more than 1000 goals during
his international career. He won three Olympic gold medals in the field of hockey in 1928
(Amsterdam), 1932 (Los Angeles) and 1936 (Berlin).
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2. Sports Day celebrations in India
National Sports Day is celebrated in India by presenting awards such as Arjuna Award,
Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award, Dronacharya Award, Dhyan Chand Award.
3. Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Award

The award is the highest sporting honour of India. It was instituted in 1991-92. The
selection committee chooses the person based on his performance in the field of sports
in the last four years. In 2020, the award is being presented to the following
4. Arjuna Award
The award is being presented since 1961. In order to be eligible to receive the award,
the person should not only have had good performance in the past four years but should
also have had international excellence for the year for which the award is recommended.
5. Dronacharya Award
The award is presented for outstanding coaches in the country. Guru Drona is a
character in the epic Mahabharata. He was the master who trained the Kaurava and
Pandava princes in military arts and astras.
6. Dhyan Chand Award

It is the lifetime achievement award. It was instituted in 2002. It is presented to events
such as Paralympic games, Olympic games, Asian Games, Common wealth games, world
cup and world championship.
7. Prize of Money enhanced

This year, the prize money in four of the seven categories of the National Sports and
Adventure Awards have been enhanced. The prize money of Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna
Award has been increased to 25 lakh rupees from 7.5 lakh rupees.
245. United Nations to renew, reduce Lebanon Peace Keeping Forces
On August 28, 2020, the United Nations announced that it will reduce the peace keeping
forces in Lebanon for another year. Also, it will reduce the number of troops
1. Highlights
The UN Interim Force in Lebanon was established in 1978. It patrols the southern border
of Lebanon known as Blue Line. The Blue Line runs along Lebanon-Israel border. The
troop ceiling is being lowered from 15,000 to 13,000.
2. Background
According to Israel and United States, the Hezabollah organization is using Lebanon as
base in the southern border.
3. United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon

The UNIFIL was formed to achieve the following
4. Lebanese Civil War

The Lebanese Civil War was fought between 1975 and 1990.
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5. UN Peace Keeping Forces
There are currently 13 United Nations Peace Keeping forces that are deployed in three
continents. They are often referred to Blue Berets or Blue Helmets. The financial
resources of the UN Peace keeping forces is the collective responsibility of UN member
states.
6. India and UN Peace keeping forces

India is one of the largest contributors of troops to United Nations Peace Keeping Forces.
There are more than 200,000 Indian troops that have served in 49 of the 71 peace
keeping missions. The current missions of India are operating in
246. 14th India-Singapore Defence Policy Dialogue
On August 28, 2020, the India-Singapore Defence Policy Dialogue was held in video
conference. The countries agreed to discuss number of issues of bilateral defence
engagements. They agreed to enhance the security partnership.
1. Highlights
The HADR agreement was signed between the countries during the dialogue. HADR is
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief.
2. Defence Cooperation
India and Singapore began their annual naval combat exercise called the SIMBEX in
1994. In 2003, the countries signed an agreement that allowed the Singapore army to
conduct training on Indian soil. In 2015, the countries signed agreement for strategic
relationship in security, military, intelligence cooperation, political exchanges,
cooperation in multilateral forums, and to improve air connectivity.
3. Supports
India supports Singapore to become a permanent member in the United Nations Security
council and also to expand its role in Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Singapore supports India in its conflict against Pakistan.
4. Cold War
During the cold war era, Singapore was allied with NATO. On the other hand, India joined
Non-Aligned Movement as a founding member.
5. India-Singapore
As a first step towards internationalization of BHIM UPI, the application was first
launched in Singapore. In other words, Singapore was the first country where the
application was launched outside India.
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247. Chunauti: Next Generation Start Up Challenge contest
On August 28, 2020, the Government of India launched “Chunauti”, the next generation
start up challenge contest. Around 300 start ups working in select areas are to be
identified and provided with seed fund up to Rs 25 lakhs.
1. Highlights
The challenge is launched with a special focus on Tier-II towns. Chunauti is Challenge
Hunt Under NGIS for Advanced Uninhibited Technology Intervention. NGIS is Next
Generation Incubation Scheme. The main objective of the challenge is to address the
challenges faced during pandemic. It is to look for solutions that will support industries,
Government and public at large.
2. Efforts by GoI
The Government of India has taken several measures to boost start ups in the country.
The ISRO (Indian Space Research Organization) and the DRDO (Defence Research
Development Organization) have opened their research to Indian start ups recently to
boost indigenous production in the country. They are promoting more new innovative
start up to implement their technologies to boost the manufacturing in the country. This
is being done by technology transfer.
3. National Start up Advisory Council

The council was set up by the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It will be chaired by
the Minister of Commerce and Industry. It will have non-official members nominated by
the Central Government. These members will hold office for two years.
248. Punjab passes resolution against farm ordinances
On August 28, 2020, the Punjab Government passed a resolution against the farm
ordinances of the central government.
1. Ordinances
In June 2020, the Union Government of India had issued three ordinances as follows
2. Farmer Produce Ordinance, 2020

It was promulgated in June 2020 to provide barrier-free trade of farmers produce outside
the markets that are specified under State Agriculture Market Laws. It allows intra-state
and inter-state trade of farmers.
3. Essential Commodities Ordinance

The ordinance amended the Essential Commodities Act. Under the ordinance, the
essential commodities such as pulses, oil seeds, onion, potatoes are excluded from the
act. According to the act, the centre can include or exclude any commodity and declare
it essential. This is mainly to make the commodities available to consumers.
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4. Farmers Agreement on Price Assurance and Farm Services Ordinance, 2020
The ordinance provided a framework to empower and protect the farmers with reference
to sale and purchase of farm products. The provisions of the ordinance override the state
APMC laws.

According to the Punjab State Government, Agriculture falls under List II of Constitution
and hence puts it as a State List. The promulgation of the ordinance is a direct
encroachment on the functions of these states.
6. State List
The Seventh schedule of the constitution deals with the powers of state and Union
Government. They are notified as three lists namely State List, Union List and
Concurrent List. The Union List has more important subjects than that included in the
other 2 lists. The 88th amendment of the Constitution included “Taxes on services” as a
new subject in the Union List.
249. Supreme Court issues notice to GoI on PIL to identify minorities at

State Level
On August 28, 2020, the Union Government sought a response from the Central
Government on Public Interest Litigation seeking directions to frame guidelines in
identifying minorities at state level.
1. What does the PIL say?

The National Commission for Minority Education Institution Act, 2004 does not identify
minorities at state level. It identifies the minorities only at state level. This deprives the
minorities in the states their constitutional rights. The Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
demands the centre to lay down guidelines to identify minorities at state level as well.
2. Minorities at national level

Under the NCMEI act, the religious communities such as Christians, Muslims, Sikhs,
Parsis, Sikhs, Buddhists and Jains are considered as minorities at national level. This is
against the judgement of TMA Pai Foundation case, 2002. At the case, the Supreme
Court held that the unit of determining linguistic and religious minorities would be State.
3. Constitutional Provisions to Minorities

Article 29 provides that a section of citizens residing in India having distinct culture,
language or script shall have the right to conserve it. It gives protection to religious and
linguistic minorities.
4. Minorities Day in India

It is observed on December 18 every year. It marks the Declaration on rights of persons
belonging to National or Ethnic, Religious and Linguistic Minorities by the United Nations,
1992. The declaration declares that the states shall protect the existence of Ethnic,
cultural, linguistic or religious identity of minorities.
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250. Facts Box: Rules for administration in Jammu and Kashmir
On August 28, 2020, the Government of India issued rules for administration in Jammu
and Kashmir. It specifies the functions of Council of Ministers and Lieutenant Governor.
1. Role of Lieutenant Governor

 The executive functions of Lieutenant Governor include public order, police, anti-corruption,
All India Services.
 The critical issues that affect the peace of the Union Territory or that will affect the minority
community, Scheduled Tribe, Scheduled Caste or Backward classes are to be submitted to
the Lieutenant Governor.
 When there is a difference of opinion between the Minister and the LG, the decision of the LG
is to have to be accepted by the Council of Minsters
2. Role of the President

 When difference of opinion arises between the LG and the Council of ministers, the LG shall
refer to the President and shall act according to his advice.
 In the above cases, the LG will be empowered to pass directions till the President makes a
decision.
3. Role of Council of Minister

 The executive powers of the Chief Minister and the Council of Minsters have been restricted
to the areas such as land revenue, imposition of new tax, sale or lease o government
property, reconstituting departments.
 The matter that brings in controversy between the Central Government and the LG is to be
brought to the notice of Central Government at the earliest.
4. Background
The elections for the UT of Jammu and Kashmir are to be held in 2021 after the
delimitation exercise according to the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019. In 2019, Article 370
of the constitution was abrogated and the special status of Jammu and Kashmir was
revoked.
August 30, 2020
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251. AGRIOTA: E-Market Platform to bridge Indian rural farmers and UAE
food industry
The UAE Government launched AGRIOTA, a new technology driven agricultural

commodity trading platform that will bridge the rural farmers from India and the gulf
Food Industry
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1. Highlights
The E-Market place allows the farmers to connect with the UAE food industry directly
bypassing intermediaries. This optimizes the supply chain and ensures traceability
creating value for all stakeholders.
2. Global Food Security Index

India ranked 72nd out of 113 countries in Global Food Security Index in 2019. Singapore
was ranked the first followed by Ireland, United States, Switzerland and Finland. The
index says that UAE, Israel and Singapore are the most impacted countries when it
comes to natural resource risks and resilience against future food security threats.
3. Food Security
It is essential to focus on food security by the world countries to achieve the following
Sustainable Development Goals
4. Food Security in India

The Indian Government has taken immense measures to ensure food security in the
country. The National Food Security Mission was launched to increase production of rice,
wheat, pulses and coarse cereals. Also, the National Food Security Act entitles 67% of
population to receive subsidized food grains.
5. Global Food Policy Report, 2019

The report was launched by the International Food Policy Research Institute. The key
findings of the report as follows
252. Redevelopment of New Delhi Railway Station at Rs 6,500 crores
The New Delhi Railway Station is the second busiest and the largest in India. It handles
more than 4.5 lakh passengers per day. The station is to be redeveloped by the Rail
Land Development Authority at Rs 6,500 crores.
1. Highlights
 The Railway station is to be developed by taking bids from the private players
 The main objective of the project is to upgrade infrastructure
 The station is to be developed under Design-build Finance Operate Transfer model
 The main features of the redevelopment project include refurbished platforms, mezzanine
level, rest rooms, food courts and Green building provisions that includes optimum use of
lighting.
2. Rail Land Development Authority

It is a statutory authority operating under Ministry of Railways. It was set up under
amendment of Railways Act, 2989. The authority is responsible to develop a vacant
Railway land into assets for the railways. This can be generating revenue by non-tariff
measures as well.
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3. Privatization of Railways
The Ministry of Railways has begun the process of allowing private sectors to operate
passenger train services over 100 routes. This is to bring in private sector investment of
Rs 30,000 crores. The main objective of privatization of railways is to introduce modern
technology, reduce transit time, provide enhanced safety, boost job creation, provide
world class travel experience and reduce demand supply deficit.
4. Bibek Debroy Committee

The committee was set up to suggest ways to mobilize resources of Indian Railways and
had favoured privatization of wagons, rolling stocks and coaches.
August 31, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
253. 17th ASEAN-India Economic Ministers Consultations held
The ASEAN-India Economic Ministers Consultations was held virtually. India was
represented by the Union Minister of Commerce and Industry Shri Piyush Goyal.
1. Highlights
The meting was attended by the commerce ministers of the 10 ASEAN countries. This
included Malaysia, Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Indonesia, Singapore, Brunei, Myanmar,
Cambodia and Philippines. The leaders at the meet reaffirmed their commitment in the
following
2. What is AITIGA?
The AITIGA is a free trade agreement between the ten ASEAN members and India. It was
signed in 2010. According to the agreement, the partners have set a time line to
eliminate duties on as much goods as possible.
3. Why is the review needed?

 Since the agreement was implemented India’s trade deficit has increased. Thus, India is
demanding for a review. According to NITI Aayog, the trade deficit between India and ASEA
has doubled between 2011 and 2017. It was 5 billion USD in 2011 and increased to 10 billion
USD in 2017.
 The main reason for the growing trade deficit is the low utilization of the FTA route by the
Indian traders.
4. Act East Policy

The ASEAN-India partnership is predominantly occupied by India’s Act East policy. The
Act East Policy is an upgradation of Look East Policy that was launched in 1991. The Act
East Policy was launched in 2014 by PM Modi to boost security and economic ties
between India and Indo-Pacific. Earlier the Look East Policy focused only on economic
ties.
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254. Measurement and Monitoring Water supply under Jal Jeevan
Mission
The Government of India has decided to provide smart rural water supply system under
Jal Jeevan Mission, Digital India, Atma Nirbhar Bharat Abhiyan and Make in India. The Jal
Jeevan Mission is being implemented in the country with the aim of providing clean tap
water connection to every rural household by 2024. Under the programme, the 55 litres
of water is to be provided per day on a long- term basis.
1. Highlights
The smart measurement and monitoring is to be conducted through Paani Samiti.
2. What is a Paani Samiti?

The Jal Jeevan Mission is being implemented under National level, state level, district
level and village level committees. The Paani Samiti is the one operating at village level
or Gram Panchayat level. It consists of 10-15 members. 25% of this committee shall be
from elected members of Panchayat, 50% should be women and 25% may consist of
members from weaker sections of the village.
3. Background
The 73rd amendment of the Constitution allows Gram Panchayats to manage drinking
water supply. The Paani Samiti will facilitate an automated system of measurement and
monitoring of water services.
4. What is the plan?

The village level smart systems will collect data and send it to district, the districts to the
states and the states to the national level committee. This will help to analyze the
demand pattern.
5. Jal Jeevan Mission

The Mission was launched in 2019. PM Modi launched the mission during his
independence day speech at the Red Fort.
255. Delimitation Panel to visit four NE states and Jammu and Kashmir
The Delimitation Panel that was set up to redraw constituencies of Assam, Nagaland,
Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh and Jammu and Kashmir is to visit the states the Union
Territory to prepare a broad framework of delimitation exercise.
1. Highlights
The Delimitation Panel will redraw the constituencies based on the 2011 census. It will
also work on increasing the assembly seats of Jammu and Kashmir based on its
Reorganization Act. The Delimitation Panel was set up in March 2020 under the
leadership of Supreme Court Justice Ranjana Desai (retd).
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2. What is Delimitation?
Delimitation is the act of fixing limits to the boundaries of territorial constituencies. It is
essential to provide fair division of geographical areas to prevent advantage of one -
political party over the other. Also, delimitation will provide equal representation to
equal segments of people.
3. Constitutional provisions of Delimitation

Article 82 states that the Parliament shall enact Delimitation Act after every census. The
Article 170 states that the States shall be divided into territorial constituencies according
to the Delimitation Act after every census.
4. About Delimitation Commission

The Delimitation Commission is appointed by the President of India in consultation with
the Election Commission of India. The members of Delimitation Commission are a
Retired Supreme Court Judge, Chief Election Commissioner and the respective State
Election Commission. In case of difference of opinion, opinion of the majority prevails.
The Delimitation Commission is one of the high level bodies in India whose decisions
cannot be questioned in a court.
5. Recent Delimitation
In 2009, 499 out of 543 Parliamentary Constituencies were delimited.
6. Why is Delimitation important?

It is important to provide equal representations to all population of all constituencies.
Also, it is essential to identify reserved seats for Scheduled Tribes and Scheduled Castes.
7. Concerns
 The States that tool little measures in population control might end up getting greater
representation in the Parliament. The Southern states that promoted family planning face
lesser representations
 In 2008, the delimitation was conducted based in 2001 census. However, the parliamentary
and seats were decided based on 1971 census.
256. India to start bidding process of procuring six submarines
The Indian Navy is to acquire 24 new submarines. This is being done to bolster India’s
underwater fighting capabilities. India is to launch the bidding process of procuring these
submarines in September 2020.
1. Highlights
The submarines are to be built in India. Of these six are nuclear attack submarines and
are to be built at a cost of Rs 55,000 crores. The Mega Project has been named P-75 I.
2. Significance
The submarines are important to bolster the strength of Indian Navy, especially in the
Indian Ocean Region. The Indian Ocean is the backyard of Indian Navy and is important
to the strategic interests of India.
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3. What is the plan?
The Indian Navy is in the process of procuring 57 carrier borne fighter jets, 111 Naval
Utility Helicopters and 123 multi-role helicopters. Recently, India banned the import of
101 military items such as cruise missile, sonar systems, combat helicopters,
conventional submarines in order to boost indigenous production of defence items in the
country.
4. Way Ahead
The Defence Ministry has set a goal of achieving 25 billion USD in defence
manufacturing in the next five years. This is equivalent to Rs 1.75 lakh crores. Also, it
has set a target of achieving Rs 35,000 crores of defence exports.
257. India First Policy of Sri Lanka
The Foreign Secretary Jayanth Colmbage of Sri Lanka recently shared about Sri Lanka’s
interests towards India Fist Policy.
1. Highlights
The Strategic Security Policy of Sri Lanka will have “India First” approach. This will
change its Geo-political situations with China. China is trying to exercise dominance over
the island nation for its strategic location in the Indian Ocean Region.
2. Defence Cooperation between India and Sri Lanka

India and Sri Lanka conduct joint military exercise called the “MITRA SHAKTI”. Also, they
conduct a joint Naval Exercise called “SLINEX”. India is currently providing defence
training to Sri Lankan forces. In 2019, the countries signed agreements to counter Drug
and Human Trafficking in the Indian Ocean Region.
3. Geopolitical Significance of Sri Lanka

The location of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean Region has been of strategic geopolitical
relevance the major powers in the world. This is very well projected in the following
agreements
4. Political
Sri Lanka is a member of BIMSTEC and SAARC. Sri Lanka was long been in geopolitical
orbit of India. However, its relationship with China is loosening its grip with India.
258. India Sea Plane services to begin from October 31
The Gujarat Government recently announced that the first sea plane services of India is
to begin from October 31. October 31 marks the birth anniversary of Sarsar Vallabhai
Patel. The first seaplane is to take off from Sabarmati river front to Statue of Unity in
Kevadia in Narmada district.
187
1. Highlights
In July 2020, the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Chief Minster of Gujarat Vijay Rupani
signed an agreement to provide affordable air connectivity between Sabarmati River
front and Statue of Unity, Kevadia. The service is first of its kind in the vountry.
2. About the project

The construction of the seaplane project was begun in 2018. The Batherymetric and
Hydrographic survey were conducted by the Inland Waterways Authority of India. The
landing of sea plane requires minimum width of 900 metres of water body with a depth
of six feet. Hence, the Panchmuli lake was selected for landing.
3. UDAN Phase III

The Water Aerodromes were awarded to the airlines for seaplane operations about a
year ago. The Phase III of UDAN scheme provided the following routes
4. Water Aerodrome
The Water Aerodrome is a water body that has minimum prerequisites for seaplanes and
amphibious aircraft to land and take off. The planes can park and dock in the region.
5. Chilika Lake protests

The Central Government also has plans to set up a water aerodrome in the Chilika lake.
However, the project is facing sharp criticism from the State Government of Odisha and
various other organizations. The State Government of Odisha is against the plan as it
believes that the project will directly affect two lakh fishermen in the Asia’s largest salt
water lake.
259. India opts out of Kavkaz 2020
India recently announced its withdrawal from the International Military Exercise to be
held in Russia. The exercise is to be held between September 15, 2020 and September
26, 2020.
1. Highlights
The Kavkaz exercise if to be held in Astrakhan, a southern province in Russia. The
member countries if Shanghai Cooperation Organization and Central Asian countries are
to participate in the exercise. Around 20 countries are expected to participate in the
exercise.
2. Why the sudden withdrawal?

Earlier, India had agreed to participate in the exercise. However, India has now
withdrawn its contingent to the exercise due to COVID-19 reasons. However, experts
believe that Chinese participation in the exercise is the major reason.
3. SCO
The SCO is seen as a counter weight to the NATO. The SCO has now emerged as one of
the largest transregional organization that accounts to 44% of the world population
stretching from the Pacific Ocean to the Baltic sea and from the Arctic Ocean to the
Indian Ocean.
188
4. Exercises between India and Russia
The INDRA Naval Exercise is being conducted between India and Russia since 2003. It
boosts cooperation between the navies of the countries.
260. Facts Box: United Nations Guidelines on Access to Social Justice for
people with Disabilities
The United Nations recently released the first ever guidelines to social justice for people
with disabilities in order to make it easy for them to access justice systems in the world.
1. The Guidelines
The Guidelines are as follows
2. Definition to the Disabled

The United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities defines a
person with disability as, “he who has long-term mental, physical, intellectual or sensory
impairments”. Also, according to the convention, the disability is a criteria that hinders
their effective participation in the society.
3. What is Discrimination on the basis of Disability?

It is an exclusion or distinction that has its effect of nullifying the enjoyment, recognition
on equal basis as with the others.
261. Supreme Court imposes token penalty of Re 1 on Prashant Bhushan

as punishment
On August 31, 2020, the Supreme Court imposed Re 1 a token penalty on activist lawyer
Prashant Bhushan as punishment in criminal contempt case. The judgement was
pronounced by a bench headed by Justice Arun Mishra.
1. Highlights
If Mr Bhushan fails to pay the fine, he shall be jailed three months and will also be
debarred from practicing law for a period of three years. The bench took note that
Bhushan refused to apologize despite repeated opportunities. The apex court held him
guilty of criminal contempt.
2. Why is Contempt power needed?

The courts need contempt power to punish willful disobedience to court orders as well as
interference in administration of justice and threats to judges. It exists to insulate the
judicial system from unfair criticism and also to prevent fall in the reputation of judiciary
in the eye of the public.
189
3. Contempt of Court Act, 1971
It outlines the procedure in relation to punishment for contempt and also in relation to
investigation. It divided the contempt into two categories namely civil contempt and
criminal contempt. Civil Contempt is willful disobedience of the court. The criminal
contempt includes act that scandalizes the court, interferes with administration of justice
and prejudices judicial proceeding.
4. Law Commission
The Law Commission of India has said that there is a need to retain provision regarding
contempt of courts. It has also suggested that the definition of contempt of court
definition should be restricted to civil contempt alone.
5. Constitutional provisions
Article 129 of the constitution conferred the Supreme Court the power to punish
contempt of itself. Article 215 gives similar powers to high courts.
262. Ministry of Defence sets up committee to review AFHQ
In order to enhance the combat potential and rebalance defence expenditure, the
Ministry of Defence has set up a three-member committee under Lt General Shekatkar
(retd). The main task of the committee is to review the utilization of Armed Forces
Headquarters Civil Services (AFHCS).
1. Highlights
The Committee is to identify appointments in Inter Service Organizations and Service
Headquarters. The main objective of the committee is to help save expenditure of Rs
25,000 crores in the next five years. The committee was suggested by the 11 member
Shekatkar committee. This committee was formed by the then Defence Minister
Manohar Parrikar in 2016. It made around 216 recommendations of which as lot were
implemented in 2017.
2. Armed Forces Headquarters Civil Services

The headquarters is responsible to provide civilian staff, support services, secretarial and
clerical to the headquarters of Indian Armed Forces. It was established in 1968.
3. Controversies with AFHQCS

In 2016, the Ministry of Defence issued a letter that equated Armed Forces Headquarter
Civil Services and designations with the ranks of the Indian Armed Forces. The rank
equivalence created without the concurrence of Armed Forces Headquarters created
resentment in Armed Forces. This creates a huge controversy. Later, it was withdrawn in
2018.
4. 11 member Shekatkar Committee recommendations

The following were accepted
190
263. Former President Pranab Mukherjee Passes Away
On August 31, 2020, the former President Pranab Mukherjee passed away at 84 after
testing positive for COVID-19. The Government of India has announced seven-day state
mourning.
1. Highlights
The Bharat Ratna Pranab Mukherjee was being treated at the Army Research and
Referral Hospital in Delhi. He had undergone an emergency surgery to remove a brain
clot after testing positive for COVID-19 on August 10. After the surgery, he was placed
on ventilator support. He developed lung infection and the doctors found his renal
parameters damaged. His condition declined further on August 31.
2. About Pranab Mukherjee

 He had served as the 13th President of India between 2012 and 2017. Also, he served as the
senior leader of the Indian National Congress. Also, he had served as the Union Finance
Minister between 2009 and 2012.
 In 2019, he was awarded with the highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna by President Ram
Nath Kovind.
3. His Journey
Mr Mukherjee served as the Finance Minister for the first time in 1982-84. Also, he was
nominated as the leader of Rajya Sabha in 1980. He was one of the most trusted
ministers of Smt Indira Gandhi. After her death, he was sidelined in the party and hence
formed his own party the Rashtriya Samajwadi Congress. It later merged with the
Congress in 1989.
4. Public Offices
 In 2005, India and US inked one of the most important deals called Indo-US Defence
Framework deal. It was signed when MR Mukherjee was the defence minister.
 In 1995, when he was the External Affairs Minister, India was made the full dialogue partner
of ASEAN as a part of the Look East Policy
 In 2006, India-US Civil Nuclear Agreement was signed. And also, India signed an agreement
with the Nuclear Suppliers Group. This allowed India to participate in nuclear trade in spite of
India not being a member of the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty.
5. Major Reforms
 Pranab Mukherjee brought in several tax reforms. He scrapped the Commodities Transaction
tax and the Fringe Benefits Tax.
 He expanded the funding of Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission
 He expanded infrastructure programmed such as National Highway Development
Programme.
 The Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance, 2013 was promulgated by Pranab Mukherjee. The
ordinance amended the Indian Penal Code.
191

August, 2020

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