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Current Affairs Weekly PDF – December 2020 2nd

Week (9-16)
NATIONAL AFFAIRS
PM Inaugurated Construction Work of Agra Metro Project in Agra, UP

On December 7, 2020, the inauguration ceremony for the construction work of Phase-1 of the Agra
Metro project in Agra, Uttar Pradesh (UP) was held at 15 Battalion PAC parade ground in Agra. The
project was virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi. The project comprises 2
corridors with a total length of 29.4 km has an approximate outlay of Rs 8,379.62 cr and will be
completed in 5 years.
SJVN virtually sign MoU with IREDA for development of Green Energy Projects
On December 7, 2020, SJVN Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian
Renewable Energy Development Agency Limited (IREDA) for Green Energy Projects through virtual
mode. As per the MoU, IREDA will provide services to SJVN for development of Green Energy Projects,
and help SJVN in devising an action plan to create and acquire Renewable Energy Projects for the next 5
years. India Targets 175 GW Renewable Energy by 2022.
IAF Signed MoU with CSIR-NML for Research in Material Science, Engineering
On 7th December 2020, the Indian Air Force (IAF) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-National Metallurgical Laboratory (CSIR-NML), Jamshedpur,
Jharkhand for the research and development in the field of material science and engineering. The IAF
delegation led by Air Marshal Vibhas Pande VSM, Air Officer in charge Maintenance along with senior
officials of NML signed the agreement.
NBCFDC, NSFDC sign MoA with Central Bank of India to implement VISVAS Yojana
On December 7, 2020, National Backward Classes Finance & Development Corporation (NBCFDC) &
National Scheduled Castes Finance and Development Corporation (NSFDC) signed a Memorandum of
Agreement (MoA) with Central Bank of India for implementation of ‘Vanchit Ikai Samooh aur Vargon ki
Aarthik Sahayta (VISVAS) Yojana’ – an Interest Subvention Scheme of the Ministry of Social Justice &
Empowerment, Government of India. With the signing of the agreement, interest subvention for the
beneficiaries under the VISVAS Yojana will be provided through Central Bank of India which is
headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra.
NTPC signs MoU with IIFM, Bhopal for Narmada Landscape Restoration Project
NTPC Limited signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Indian Institute of Forest
Management (IIFM), Bhopal for the implementation of Narmada Landscape Restoration Project (NLRP).
NTPC Ltd & United States Agency for International Development (USAID) will provide the funds in
equal proportions for the implementation of the project. The Main Objective of the scheme is to impact
the water quality & quantity in the tributaries of River Narmada. IIFM from Bhopal, Global Green
Growth Institute (GGGI) will be the implementation partners.
Central Zoo Authority grants recognition to New Zoos at Bihar & Uttar Pradesh
On December 7, 2020, 37th General Body meeting of Central Zoo Authority (CZA) chaired by Union
Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Prakash Javadekar granted
recognition to 2 New Zoos – Rajgir Zoo Safari in Nalanda, Bihar & Shaheed Ashfaque Ullah Khan Prani

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Udyaan in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh. Prakash Javadekar stated that an Investors Summit will be held in
2021 to raise funds and take forward the Modernization agenda.
PwC India Collaborated with UNICEF & YuWaah to Upskill 300 mn Indian youths
On December 7, 2020, Consulting firm PwC (PriceWaterhouseCoopers) India announced the launch of a
strategic collaboration with United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and YuWaah (Generation
Unlimited in India) to upskill 300 million youths in India in the next 10 years. It should be noted that in
November 2019, UNICEF launched Generation Unlimited aka YuWaah in India is aimed at imparting
skills & providing employment to 1.8 billion young people in India in the age bracket of 10-24 years by
2030.
Mastercard, ni-msme and CII Partners to Launch Digital Saksham

On December 7, 2020 Mastercard, National Institute for Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (ni-msme)
and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) entered into partnership to launch Digital Saksham, a
capacity building initiative to drive awareness about digitization for Micro, Small and Medium
Enterprises (MSMEs) in India. Digital Saksham, an expansive program is designed to strengthen MSME’s
competitiveness by building their digital know-how and acceptance.
India only high endemic country to report a decline of 17.6 % in Malaria cases in 2019: WHO
World Malaria Report 2020
According to the World Malaria Report 2020 released by the World Health Organization (WHO), India
became the only high endemic country to report a decline of 17.6 % in 2019 compared to 2018. India
reported the largest fall in Malaria cases in the WHO South-East Asia Region. As per the ‘World Malaria
Report 2020’, Meghalaya has topped the list in reducing malaria cases by 59% in India. Nigeria, Congo,
Tanzania, Mozambique, Niger & Burkina Faso accounted for 51% of Global malaria deaths in 2019.
NHPC to commission 2, 000 MW Hydropower project on Subansiri River by March 2022

Public Sector Undertaking NHPC stated that the 2, 000-Megawatt (MW) Hydropower Project on
Subansiri River would be commissioned by March 2022. The project is located near North Lakhimpur
on the border of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam. The project was delayed due protests by Many groups
in Assam.
WCF, NITI Aayog Partner to provide training to Country’s Children and Youth on Cybersafety
WCF (WNS Cares Foundation), the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) wing of Private firm WNS
Global Services has partnered with Atal Tinkering Labs (ATL), an initiative under Atal Innovation
Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog for providing training to India’s children and youth on cybersafety. WCF will
provide digital education through its platform CyberSmart.
UNESCO Launched 2020 State of Education Report for India to Support GoI in Youth’s Skill
Development
On December 8, 2020, the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization),
New Delhi virtually launched the 2nd edition of “State of the Education Report for India 2020: Technical
and Vocational Education and Training (TVET)”. This report is an overview of the present capacity for
TVET provision through short-term and long-term courses. It has been developed by an experienced
team of researchers from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS), Mumbai, Maharashtra under the
guidance of UNESCO New Delhi.
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Indian Navy finalises procurement of Israeli ‘SMASH 2000’ Anti-Drone Systems

Indian Navy has finalised the contract for procurement of a batch of Israeli ‘SMASH 2000 Plus fire
Control Systems’ Anti-Drone Systems which is capable of destroying high-speed enemy drones. It is
manufactured by Israel Firm ‘Smart Shooter’. It will be used in border security, bases and strategic
facilities protection. The Smash Fire Control Systems Are Electro-optical rifle sights which will be
mounted on Assault rifles such as AK-47/103 rifles.
They are expected to be delivered by 2021.
IIT Bombay Released Urban Quality of Life Index 2020; Mumbai Tops, Patna Ranked Last
On December 5, 2020, the Indian Institute of Technology Bombay (IIT-B) released the Urban Quality of
Life (UQoL) Index 2020 which ranked 14 Indian cities in India using 29 indicators grouped into 7
categories. In accordance to this, Mumbai (Maharashtra) tops the index followed by Delhi, Kolkata
(West Bengal) and Chennai (Tamil Nadu) by providing Highest Quality of Life while Bihar’s capital city
Patna provides poorest quality of life to its people.
Notably, this is for the first time the index has considered the factor of gender parity under which
Chennai is named as the most women-friendly city while Patna stood last.
Index Categories Highest Ranked City Lowest Ranked City
Basic Amenities Pune (Maharashtra) Patna
Economic Development Mumbai Patna
Safety & Security Kolkata Patna
Transportation Access Delhi Indore (Madhya Pradesh)
Environmental Impact Mumbai Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh)
Infrastructure Development Kolkata Patna
Gender Role Chennai Patna
Overall (Including above 7) Mumbai Pune
Cabinet Approvals on December 9, 2020

On December 9, 2020, Union Cabinet Chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the
following proposals during a press conference on Cabinet decisions, at National Media Centre in New
Delhi.
i.An expenditure of Rs. 1,584 crore for FY21 and Rs.22,810 crore for the entire Scheme period i.e. 2020-
2023 for Atmanirbhar Bharat Rojgar Yojana (ABRY) to boost employment in the formal sector and
creation of new employment during the COVID-19 recovery phase.
ii.Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) Scheme to provide Mobile Coverage in uncovered villages
by December, 2022 with a cost of 2,029 crore.
iii.Submarine Optical Fibre Cable (OFC) to provide connectivity between Mainland (Kochi), Kerala and
Lakshadweep Islands (KLI Project) by May 2023.To be funded by USOF, the estimated implementation
cost of the project is about Rs 1,072 crore including operational expenses for 5 years.
iv.A new policy to allow businesses to offer wireless internet hotspot services through the project
“Public Wi-Fi Access Network Interface or PM-WANI”.
v.Securities & Exchange Board of India (SEBI) to sign a bilateral Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
between SEBI and Financial and Commission de Surveillance du Secteur Financier (CSSF), Luxembourg
to strengthen cross border cooperation in the area of securities regulations and facilitate mutual
assistance.
Cabinet approval with foreign country on December 9, 2020
Central Government also approved a MoU between India and Suriname on Cooperation in the field of
Health and Medicine….Click here to read the complete cabinet approvals

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NE states, UP, Bihar top in pandemic management: SBI Study

According to a study conducted by State Bank of India (SBI) Research, North-Eastern (NE) states (All NE
states combined as one) topped the list of states in managing Pandemic, Bihar came second, followed by
Uttar Pradesh. Rajasthan, Maharashtra and Himachal Pradesh were placed at the bottom. Soumya Kanti
Ghosh, SBI Group Chief Economic Advisor was the author of the report. They were ranked based on 2
parameters – i.macro (Fiscal deficit) & Consumer Price Inflation.5 performance of states on Central
Government Schemes (one nation one ration card, PM Svanidhi, PM Samman, emergency credit linked
guarantee scheme and PM Awas Yojana).
MoRTH signs MoU with Austria on Technology Cooperation in Road Infrastructure Sector
On December 9, 2020, the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) signed a Memorandum
of Understanding (MoU) with the Federal Ministry of Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility,
Innovation and Technology of the Republic of Austria on Technology Cooperation in the Road
Infrastructure Sector.
Malayan Giant Squirrel could fall by 90% in India by 2050; ZSI’s 1st of its kind Survey
According to a First-of-its-kind survey conducted by Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) under the Ministry
of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC), Malayan Giant Squirrel or Black Giant Squirrel
(Ratufa bicolor) could fall by 90% in India by 2050 due to shrinking of its original habitat zone. Malayan
Giant Squirrel is one of the World’s Largest Squirrel species and also one of the 3 Giant Squirrels species
found in India.
Lakshadweep becomes India’s First 100% Organic Union Territory

Indian Island region, Lakshadweep becomes India’s first 100% organic Union Territory in the country,
and second in the country only after Sikkim. This comes after the UT received proper certifications and
declarations under the Centre’s Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (organic farming improvement
programme). Synthetic chemical usage has stopped completely since 2005.
NSDC Signs MoU with BYJU’S to Support Skilling of Teachers and Trainers
On December 10, 2020 The National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) signed Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with BYJU’S to support the skilling of teachers and trainers. The partnership is as
part of Skill India Mission. This alliance will help to achieve the Digital India vision. NSDC has entered
into partnership with LinkedIn and the women’s wing of FICCI to accelerate the digital skills training for
youth and women for digital workforce.
IESA, UNIDO tie up to Boost Energy Storage Innovations in India

On December 10, 2020, the India Energy Storage Alliance (IESA) and United Nations Industrial
Development Organization (UNIDO) collaboration was done on the lines of the launch of the 4th round
of innovation challenge by UNIDO’s Facility of Low Carbon Technology Deployment (FLCTD) to support
and encourage new innovations in Indian energy storage and e-mobility space. There will be grants of
up to USD 50,000 for winning technologies, and recognition from the Bureau of Energy Efficiency,
UNIDO and IESA.
Government launches Viability Gap Funding (VGF) Scheme to boost India’s Infrastructure
On 11th December, 2020 Finance Ministry notified the Viability Gap Funding (VGF) scheme to provide
financial support to Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) in selected Infrastructure projects. The selection
of Private companies will be done through transparent, open and competitive bidding process.

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PM Narendra Modi Inaugurated 4th Indian Mobile Congress 2020 held Virtually; Co-organised
by the DoT and COAI
4th edition of the largest digital technology forum in South Asia i.e. India Mobile Congress (IMC) 2020
held virtually on December 8-10, 2020 amid COVID-19 and was inaugurated by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi. It was organised by the Department of Telecommunications (DoT) and Cellular
Operator Association of India (COAI) on the theme “Inclusive Innovation – Smart I Secure I Sustainable”.
In November 2020, Cabinet cleared the production-linked incentive (PLI) policy for telecom to achieve
Rs 2 lakh-crore of production over the next five years.
• Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) in partnership with Skylotech India has launched the
world’s first satellite-based NB-IoT (Narrow Band-Internet of Things) device
• Nokia and Vodafone India Foundation, the CSR arm of Vi, have deployed a Smart Agriculture
solution that aims to improve the productivity of farmers in India.
• Nokia announced the production of 5G equipment at its manufacturing site in Chennai, Tamil
Nadu. Notably, Nokia was the first to manufacture the 5G New Radio in India.
• Reliance’s Jio Platforms in India, plans to roll out a 5G network in the country in the second half
of 2021.
• The report titled ‘TMT Industry CEO Outlook: Smart. Secure. Sustainable’ was launched by
KPMG in India in association with IMC and industry body COAI (Cellular Operators Association
of India) at IMC 2020…click here for complete detail
IndUS Entrepreneurs (TiE) Global Summit-2020 held Virtually from Hyderabad

World’s largest virtual entrepreneurial summit, The IndUS Entrepreneurs (TiE) Global Summit-2020
(TGS 2020) was held virtually from December 8-10, 2020. It was hosted by TiE Hyderabad. Vice-
President Venkaiah Naidu virtually inaugurated the TGS 2020.Theme of TGS 2020 - ‘Entrepreneurship
360’.
A.K. Singh CMD of NHPC, lays foundation stone of head regulator works for Indo-Nepal Link
Canal
On 8th December, 2020 The Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of NHPC limited, A.K. Singh, has
laid foundation stone of head regulator works of Indo-Nepal Link Canal at Barrage of 94.2 MW
Tanakpur Power Station of NHPC at Uttarakhand. This project is constructed under the “Mahakali
Treaty” signed between India and Nepal. The Indo-Nepal Link Canal is 1.2 Km long Canal.
India’s 1st LGBT+ Workplace Equality Index launched by KSF, Pride Circle & Stonewall
On December 10, 2020, India’s 1st LGBT + (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Trans +) Workplace Equality Index,
“India Workplace Equality Index Top Employers 2020 Report” based on the India Workplace Equality
Index (IWEI) Index was launched virtually by KSF (Keshav Suri Foundation), Pride Circle, Stonewall &
FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry). The report highlighted Top Employers
from Indian Industry who have set an example for inclusion of LGBT + in the workplace.
Central Government Launched a Program for Beneficiaries of PM SVANidhi

On 11th December 2020, the Durga Shanker Mishra, Secretary of the Ministry of Housing and Urban
Affairs (MoHUA) launched a Central Government’s program for socio-economic profiling of the
beneficiaries of PM Street Vendor’s AtmaNirbhar Nidhi (PM SVANidhi) scheme, a special micro-credit
facility for street vendors. Quality Council of India (QCI) has been appointed as implementing partner
for the programme.

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DCGI Gives Approval for HGCO19, India’s 1st mRNA COVID-19 Vaccine Candidate to Initiate
Human Clinical Trials
On December 11, 2020 Drugs Controller General of India (DCGI) gave approval for India’s 1st
indigenous messenger Ribonucleic acid(mRNA) vaccine candidate, HGCO19 to initiate Phase I/II human
clinical trials.It was developed by Gennova Biopharmaceuticals Ltd in collaboration with HDT Biotech
Corporation, Seattle, USA.
PM Narendra Modi Addresses International Bharathi Festival 2020; Seeni Viswanathan Wins
Bharathi Award 2020
On December 11, 2020 Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi addressed the International Bharathi
Festival 2020 through video conferencing and was organised by the Vanavil Cultural Centre to celebrate
the 138th birth anniversary of Mahakavi Subramanya Bharathi, a Tamil writer, poet, journalist, Indian
independence activist and social reformer. During the event, Seeni Viswanathan was named as the
winner of Bharathi Award 2020.
CII Signs MoU with Amazon India to Bring to MSMEs

On December 9, 2020 CII signed a MoU with Amazon India(amazon.in) to enable benefits of
Electronic(e)-commerce to Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in 10 states across India at
the 17th CII Global SME Business Summit 2020 organized by CII in partnership with the Ministry of
MSME, Government of India under the theme: Reboot to Rebound: Stimulating Demand & Supply Side,
this will boost MSMEs in domestic & international trade.
NITI Aayog released ‘Vision 2035: Public Health Surveillance in India’, a White Paper
On December 14, 2020, NITI (National Institution for Transforming India) Aayog publicized a white
paper titled “Vision 2035: Public Health Surveillance in India” which was released by NITI Aayog Vice
Chairman Dr Rajiv Kumar; Member (Health) Dr Vinod K Paul; Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Amitabh
Kant; and Additional Secretary Dr Rakesh Sarwal. The white paper was co-developed by NITI Aayog and
University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada. Both organizations inked a Letter of Agreement (LoA) for the
same in 2020.
9th Sustainable Mountain Development Summit 2020 organized by IMI held virtually in
Dehradun
9th Sustainable Mountain Development Summit 2020 (SMDS IX) organized by Integrated Mountain
Initiative (IMI) and hosted by Sustainable Development Forum Uttaranchal (SDFU), Dehradun took
place virtually in Dehradun from December 11-14, 2020. The Summit was held on occasion of the
United Nations (UN) International Mountain Day 2020. Theme for 2020 SMDS IX – ‘Emerging Pathways
for Building a Resilient Post COVID-19 Mountain Economy, Adaptation, Innovation & Acceleration’.
FICCI’s Annual Convention & 93rd Annual General Meeting held Virtually
The FICCI’s (Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry) Annual Convention & 93rd
Annual General Meeting (AGM) was held virtually amid COVID-19 on the theme “Inspired India” on
December 11, 12 & 14, 2020. It was inaugurated by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi on December
12, 2020. On December 11, 2020 he inaugurated the year-long FICCI Annual Expo 2020 (FAE 2020), a
one-of-its-kind virtual event in India focusing on manufacturing and services sectors.

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INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
16th Climate Change Performance Index 2021: Sweden Ranked at 4th while India ranked at
10th Position
On December 7, 2020, a non-profit, non-governmental organization, Germanwatch has released the
16th edition of Climate Change Performance Index (CCPI) 2021 under four categories consisting of 14
indicators for 57 countries and European Union (EU). India was ranked at 10th spot with a score of
63.98 out of 100. India was at 9th position in 2019 Notably, the index has placed no country on the first
three positions. Sweden got the best ranking among its competitors but overall, it is ranked at 4th with
a score of 74.42.
Nepal, China announced revised height of the World’s Highest Peak Mt. Everest – 8848.86
metres
On December 8, 2020, Nepal and China jointly announced that “8848.86 metres” is the revised height of
World’s Highest Peak, Mount Everest. The revised height of Mt.Everest is 86 centimetres more than the
previous measure done in 1954 by Survey of India (8, 848 metres). The decision to re-measure the peak
was taken due to many reasons, one of the reasons was the 2015 Nepal Earthquake. “Sagarmatha” is the
Nepali name for Mount Everest.
Foreign Ministers of India, Oman hold virtual meeting; Oman announces Directive to form
Friendship Association with India
On December 2, 2020, External Affairs Minister (EAM), S. Jaishankar and Sayyid Badr bin Hamad bin
Hamood Albusaidi, Foreign Minister of Oman held a virtual meeting. During the meeting, EAM
appreciated Oman’s directive to establish Oman-India Friendship Association. The establishment of the
Friendship Association will be the First Ever in the West Asia region. The association will also be useful
for discussion of matters of mutual interest between Oman and India Business and social communities
in the Sultanate.
6th India-Japan ICT Joint Working Group meet held virtually

On December 8, 2020, the 6th Meeting of Joint Working Group under the India-Japan ICT (Information
& Communications Technology) was held virtually. Cooperation in 5G technologies, medical
applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) were some of the key issues discussed during the meeting. The
meeting was inaugurated by Anshu Prakash, Secretary, Telecom, Ministry of Communication, India. The
virtual meeting was held through VC Solution, a web platform developed by India’s C-DOT (Centre for
Development of Telematics).
India drops to 9th spot in Global Spam Call Tally – 4th Edition of Insights Report by Truecaller
According to the 4th Edition of Global Insights Report for 2020 released by Truecaller, a Swedish Caller
ID and Spam Blocking app, India ranked 9th in the list of countries affected by spam calls in 2020. In
India, Gujarat received the most spam calls. The list was topped by Brazil, United States & Hungary. The
report also stated that 8 out of 10 women in India receive sexual harassment, inappropriate calls and
SMS regularly.
Global CO2 Emissions expected to fall by 7% in 2020 due to Pandemic: UNEP’s Emission Gap
Report 2020
According to 11th Edition of Emissions Gap Report 2020 (Annual report) released by United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP), The Global CO2 (Carbon Dioxide) Emissions are set to fall by 7% in
2020 owing to Pandemic. The report states that emissions of the richest 1% of the Global Population

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(Countries like United States of America (USA), European Union (EU), Australia and New Zealand)
account for more than twice of the share of poorest 50% of countries.
Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh participates in the 14th ADMM/7th ADMM Plus Meeting 2020
held virtually
On December 10, 2020, Union Minister of Defence, Rajnath Singh attended the 14th ADMM-Plus
Meeting (ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Defence Ministers’ Meeting)/7th ADMM Plus
Meeting 2020 held virtually at Hanoi, Vietnam. The meeting was held on the 10th Anniversary of
ADMM-Plus. The meeting was hosted by Vietnam. Rajnath Singh welcomed Brunei Darussalam as the
new Chair of ASEAN in 2021.
Sports Minister addressed the 10th Global Sports Summit, TRUF 2020
On 9th December, 2020 Union Sports Minister Kiren Rijiju virtually addressed the 10th Global Sports
Summit, TRUF 2020, organised by Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI). On
that Occasion Minister made the announcement on the establishment of 1000 Khelo India Small Centres
in the country.
India drops to 2nd Position in BNEF’s 2020 Climatescope survey

According to Climatescope Survey ‘Emerging Markets Outlook 2020: Energy Transition in the World’s
Fastest Growing economies’ released by Bloomberg New Energy Finance Limited (BNEF) India dropped
to the 2nd position in the 2020 survey due to decline in Clean Energy Investment. Chile topped the
survey rankings with a score of 2.85, Brazil came third with a score of 2.44. India topped the BNEF’s
Climatescope Emerging Markets Ranking in 2019.
Rank Country Score
2 India 2.61
1 Chile 2.85
3 Brazil 2.44
17th International Inter-Ministerial Conference on South-South Cooperation held Virtually

On December 8, 2020, the 17th International Inter-Ministerial Conference on South-South Cooperation
in Population and Development titled “Nairobi Commitments and the 2030 Agenda: Taking stock and
looking ahead to post COVID-19 Crisis” was held virtually.The ministerial session for the same was
chaired by Dr. Faisal Sultan, The Federal Minister of the National Health Services, Regulations and
Coordination of the Government of Pakistan. The Indian side was represented by Union Minister Dr.
Harsh Vardhan, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare (MoHFW).
26th Edition of DST-CII Technology Summit 2020 between India, Portugal held virtually
26th Edition of 3-day DST-CII (Department of Science & Technology-Confederation of Indian Industry)
Technology Summit 2020 was held virtually from December 7-9, 2020. Portugal was the partner
country for 2020’s edition of Technology Summit. The meeting was organized by DST, CII. Manuel
Heitor, Minister of Science, Technology and Higher Education, Portugal was the Guest of Honour at the
Summit. Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Science & Technology, India inaugurated the
event….click here for complete detail
1st India-Uzbekistan virtual summit Held; Co-chaired by Narendra Modi & Shavkat Mirziyoyev;
9 Agreements Inked
On December 11, 2020 the first bilateral virtual summit between India and Uzbekistan was co-chaired
by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi and President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat

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Miromonovich Mirziyoyev to discuss the entire gamut of bilateral relationship, including strengthening
India-Uzbekistan cooperation in the post-COVID-19 world between both nations. Indian side confirmed
the approval of USD 448 million of Line of Credit (LoC) for four developmental projects in Uzbekistan.
During the summit both sides signed the 9 Agreements/ Memorandum of Cooperation
(MoC)/Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).Click here for complete happening detail in summit
India Contributed US$ 2 mn to UNRWA to Support Programmes for Palestine refugees

On December 10, 2020, the Representative of India to the State of Palestine, Sunil Kumar, presented a
contribution of US$ 2 million on behalf of the Government of India (GoI) to the United Nations Relief
and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). This funding is meant to support
the UNRWA programmes and services for Palestine refugees which include education, health care, relief
and social services. With this contribution, the total funding by India to the agency has reached US$ 5
million in 2020.
Ischaemic Heart Disease is the Top Cause of Death at the Global level from 2000-19: WHO’s
2019 Global Health Estimates
According to the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2019 Global Health Estimates, Ischaemic Heart
Disease remained the Top Cause of death at the Global level over the period 2000-19, it is responsible
for 16% of World’s total deaths. The study has also stated that Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD)
constitute 7 of the World’s Top 10 causes of death. In 2019, the 7 non-communicable diseases
accounted for 44% of all deaths or 80% of the deaths caused by top 10 diseases. However, all
noncommunicable diseases together accounted for 74% of deaths globally in 2019.
5th India – Myanmar Bilateral Meeting on Drug Control Cooperation held Virtually
On December 11, 2020, the 5th India- Myanmar Bilateral Meeting on Drug Control Cooperation
between the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), India and the Central Committee on Drug Abuse Control,
Myanmar was held virtually. On December 11, 2020, the 5th India- Myanmar Bilateral Meeting on Drug
Control Cooperation between the Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), India and the Central Committee on
Drug Abuse Control, Myanmar was held virtually.
5th Round of Foreign Office Consultations held virtually between India & Cyprus
On December 11, 2020, The 5th Round of Foreign Office Consultations (FOCs) was held virtually
between India & Cyprus. Neeta Bhushan, Joint Secretary (Central Europe) led the Indian side and
Thessalia Salina Shambos, Political Director, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Government of Republic of
Cyprus led the Cypriot side. Both Countries reviewed the progress of cooperation in the areas of
Politics, Economics, Consular, Culture and agreed to strengthen ties.
8th Meeting of India-Nepal JSC on Cooperation in Power Sector held virtually

On December 11, 2020, the 8th meeting of India and Nepal Joint Steering Committee (JSC) on
Cooperation in the Power sector was held virtually.The meeting was chaired by Sanjiv Nandan Sahai,
Power Secretary, Government of India & Dinesh Kumar Ghimire, Secretary (Energy) of Nepal. JSC is the
supreme bilateral mechanism for coordinating Government-to-Government initiatives in the Power
Sector. Sajiv Nandan Sahai was accompanied by Vinay Mohan Kwatra, Ambassador of India to Nepal & a
17-member delegation from various Ministries and NHPC Limited.
1st Webinar between India-Brazil Held; SS-CBC India Ammunition Project to start in 2021
India is organizing a series of webinars with friendly foreign countries to boost defence exports and to
achieve the defence export target of $5 billion in the next five years. In this regard, on December 8,
2020, the first webinar between India and Brazil was held on the theme "Indian Defence Industry

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Global Outreach for Collaborative Partnership: Webinar and Expo". It was organised by Society of
Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM). The Production of ammunition under the JV between Companhia
Brasileira de Cartuchos (CBC) Brazil, the world’s second-largest ammunition manufacturer, and Stumpp
Schuele & Somappa India (SSS Defence) will be initiated in August 2021.
India, Qatar set up task force to identify projects for investment

On December 11, 2020, India and Qatar have decided to set up a task force on Energy, to identify
specific projects in India's energy sector for investments by Qatar. It was informed by Union Minister
Dharmendra Debendra Pradhan, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. The task force will be
represented by the Vice President of Qatar Petroleum and a senior officer from the Ministry of
Petroleum and Natural Gas.
Singapore to host Special Annual Meeting of WEF in May 2021

The Organisers of the World Economic Forum (WEF) have announced that Singapore will host the
Special Annual Meeting 2021 of WEF from May 13-16, 2021. This will be the first time that the WEF
Special Annual meeting is taking place in Asia. Ahead of the Special Annual Meeting 2021, the Forum
will host the Global Technology Governance Summit in Tokyo from 6-7 April 2021.
Union Minister Harsh Vardhan virtually addresses World Bank Inter Ministerial Meeting
On December 10, 2020 Dr Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister for Health and Family Welfare virtually
addressed the World Bank Inter Ministerial Meeting on Vaccination of South Asia against COVID-19.
Union Minister, Harsh Vardhan highlighted that India’s fatality rate is 1.45% which is below the global
average of 2.29%.
WHO, IFRC sign MoU for implementation of Emergency Medical Team (EMT) initiative
The World Health Organization (WHO) & International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent
Societies (IFRC) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) known as ‘Red Channel Agreement’ for
the implementation of Emergency Medical Team (EMT) initiative.
EMT initiative will strengthen the delivery of emergency medical and health services during
humanitarian crises.
Around 1.8bn People Lacks Basic WASH Provisions: Report by WHO, UNICEF
In accordance with the World Health Organization (WHO) and United Nations Children’s Fund
(UNICEF) report, “Fundamentals first: Universal water, sanitation, and hygiene services in health care
facilities for safe, quality care” around 1.8 billion people are at heightened risk of COVID-19 and other
diseases because of lack of WASH provision. WASH stands for Water, Sanitation and Hygiene.
India Pledges a Commitment of USD 2 Billion to Provide Essential Services for Women,
Children, Adolescents Globally
At the World Health Organisation (WHO)’s ‘Lives In The Balance’ Summit 2020 held on December 11,
2020, India pledged a commitment of USD 2 billion during 2020-2021 to strengthen all levels of care in
response to COVID-19 pandemic and to ensure essential public health functions with focus on women,
newborns, young children and adolescents. The total commitment made by all the countries is USD 20.6
billion. Lives In The Balance’ Summit 2020 is organised by CORE Group, WHO’s The Partnership for
Maternal, Newborn & Child Health (PMNCH) and Universal health coverage (UHC)2030.
2nd Bangladesh-India Cotton Fest 2020 held at Dhaka, Bangladesh

On December 12, 2020, the 2nd Bangladesh-India Cotton Festival 2020 was held at Hotel Radisson Blu
Water Garden in Dhaka, Bangladesh. It was jointly organized by Bangladesh Cotton Association (BCA),

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Bangladesh Textile Mills Association (BTMA), Indian Cotton Association Ltd. (ICAL), India-Bangladesh
Chamber of Commerce and Industry (IBCCI). Bangladesh Prime Minister’s Adviser Salman Fazlur
Rahman was the chief guest of the fest.
1st TWG Meeting between India, Iran, Uzbekistan on Joint use of Chabahar Port in Iran held
virtually
On December 14, 2020, The First Trilateral Working Group (TWG) meeting was held virtually between
India, Iran & Uzbekistan to discuss the joint use of Chabahar port in Iran to increase regional
connectivity within the 3 countries. The meeting was jointly chaired by Sanjeev Ranjan, Secretary
(Shipping), Government of India, D.Dehkanov, Deputy Minister of Transport of the Republic of
Uzbekistan and Shahram Adamnejad, Deputy Transport Minister of Islamic Republic of Iran. Uzbekistan
& Iran supported India’s proposal of holding “Chabahar Day” on the side line of the International
Maritime Summit, which will be hosted by India in January 2021.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi Virtually addressed Climate Ambition Summit 2020
On December 12, 2020, the virtual Climate Ambition Summit 2020 was held to provide a platform for
government and non-governmental leaders to demonstrate their commitment to the Paris Agreement
and the multilateral process. It was co-hosted by the United Kingdom (UK), the United Nations (UN) and
France, in partnership with Chile and Italy. This summit also regarded as a “sprint to Glasgow” as the
26th session of the Conference of the Parties (COP 26) to the UN Framework Convention on Climate
Change (UNFCCC) is scheduled to take place from 1–12 November 2021 in Glasgow, Scotland.
Global electricity demand in 2020 expected to fall by 2% due to Pandemic - Electricity Market
Report 2020
According to the 1st Ever ‘Electricity Market Report’ 2020 produced by International Energy Agency
(IEA), the Global electricity demand is expected to fall by 2% due to Pandemic. The decline is the
biggest annual decline since the mid-20th century. The 2% drop is larger than the drop in electricity
demand of 0.6% due to the 2009 Global Financial Crisis. The report has also stated that the global
electricity demand will grow by 3 % in 2021 and it will be driven by China and India.
BANKING & FINANCE
Ujjivan Small Finance Bank Introduces ‘Money Mitra’ For its Customers
On December 7, 2020 Ujjivan Small Finance Bank (SFB) Ltd headquartered at Bengaluru(Bangalore),
Karnataka introduced ‘Money Mitra’, a new channel, to make banking services accessible to its
customers in their neighbourhood. Money Mitra facilitates entrepreneurs of local businesses like kirana
/ medical stores or Insurance agencies to offer retail banking solutions to Ujjivan SFB customers
exclusively. Currently, Ujjivan SFB has established over 100 Money Mitra outlets across the country.
Bank of Baroda Launches Atmanirbhar Women Scheme

On December 7, 2020 Sanjiv Chadha, Managing Director (MD) and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bank
of Baroda (BoB) headquartered at Vadodara(earlier known as Baroda), Gujarat launched ‘Atmanirbhar
Women Scheme’ virtually To help women to be self-reliant at Karnataka. This launch is part of the
bank’s Baroda Gold Loan.
ADB Approves a $2.5 million Technical Assistance to Help Improve Advanced Biofuel
Production in India
On December 7, 2020 The Asian Development Bank (ADB) headquartered at Mandaluyong, Manila,
Philippines has approved a $2.5 million (about Rs 18 crore) Technical Assistance (TA) to support

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advanced biofuel development in India. This grant is funded from the Asia Clean Energy Fund, financed
by the Government of Japan under the Clean Energy Financing Partnership Facility, and the Republic of
Korea’s e-Asia and Knowledge Partnership Fund.
ICICI Lombard and Plum Partners Co-Create India’s Health Insurance Products
On December 7, 2020 ICICI Lombard General Insurance Limited partnered with Plum Benefits Private
Limited to co-create India’s first technologically backed group health insurance products to offer
employers and employees flexibility, transparent pricing, and exceptional healthcare experience.
ADB Approved US$300 mn Loan for Primary Health Care Program in Urban Areas
On December 8, 2020, the Asian Development Bank (ADB) approved USD 300 million (about Rs 2,200
crore) loan for Strengthening Comprehensive Primary Health Care in Urban Areas Program in India. In
addition to the loan, a $2 million technical assistance grant was also provided from ADB’s Japan Fund
for Poverty Reduction to provide technical support for program implementation.
RBI Cancelled Licence of Karad Janata Sahakari Bank , Maharashtra

On December 8, 2020, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) cancelled the licence of The Karad Janata Sahakari
Bank Ltd., Karad, Maharashtra to carry on banking business, which includes acceptance of deposits and
repayment of deposits as defined in Section 5(b) read with Section 56 of the Banking Regulation Act,
1949 with effect from the close of business on December 7, 2020.
Federal Bank Enters into an Online Rupee Remittance Tie-up with OrbitRemit Limited
On December 8, 2020 Federal Bank Ltd headquartered at Aluva, Kerala entered into an online Rupee
remittance tie-up with OrbitRemit Limited. This partnership will facilitate Non-Resident Indians (NRIs)
and small businesses in New Zealand to transfer money to India in a modern, low cost, fast, easy and
more reliable way. Usage of OrbitRemit’ App and online platform: NRIs in New Zealand can also make
use of the mobile app of OrbitRemit and an online platform to transfer money to India.
ICICI Bank Becomes Designated Bank for all financial transactions under NHM in WB
ICICI (Industrial Credit and Investment Corporation of India) Bank headquartered at Mumbai,
Maharashtra won the mandate to be the designated financial institution for all monetary transactions
under National Health Mission (NHM) in West Bengal (WB) as it quoted the lowest bid. This is on the
lines of WB government decision of implementing a single bank account system for NHM. Under this, all
financial transactions will be conducted through online software, integrated with bank accounts.
RBL Bank & ICICI Prudential Life Insurance Enters into a Bancassurance Partnership
On December 9, 2020 RBL Bank Ltd headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra & ICICI Prudential Life
Insurance Ltd entered into a bancassurance partnership to offer a range of life insurance products, i.e.,
protection and long-term savings products of ICICI Prudential Life to the customers of RBL Bank.
Max Life Launches ‘Max Life Critical Illness and Disability Rider’, a Health Insurance Rider and
‘Max Fit’, a Wellness App
On December 9, 2020 Max Life Insurance Company Limited launched ‘Max Life Critical Illness and
Disability Rider’ is a health insurance rider that offers customers protection from upto 64 critical
illnesses. The company also launched ‘Max Fit’ , a comprehensive wellness programme(app).

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IRDAI proposes a cap of Rs 1 cr in draft norms on Standard Accident Insurance Policies

On December 10, 2020, Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) issued draft
guidelines on standard personal accident insurance policies. Under them, the insurance watchdog has
recommended that all general and standalone health insurers will have to offer this product from April
1, 2021.
SBI General Insurance & Mahindra Insurance Brokers made partnership to Increase Insurance
Penetration
On December 9, 2020 SBI General Insurance Company Limited entered into a strategic partnership with
Mahindra Insurance Brokers Ltd. (MIBL) to increase the insurance penetration in tier 2 & 3 cities (Rural
Indian Cities). MIBL has collaborated with SBI General Insurance under its ‘Sajhedaari program’.
YES Bank in Partnership with Mastercard Launches ‘Yes Private Prime Credit Card’
On December 8, 2020 YES Bank headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra in partnership with
Mastercard launched ‘Yes Private Prime Credit Card’ for the Affluent and Ultra High-Net-Worth-
Individuals (HNWIs) of India. The card is available on the Mastercard World Elite platform. The card is a
strictly by-invitation-only lifestyle Credit Card.
Google Pay, PhonePe Together Accounts for More than 82% of UPI market by volume in
November 2020: NPCI Data
As per the data released by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), Google Pay and
PhonePe together account for more than 82% of the Unified Payments Interface (UPI) market by
volume and more than 86% by value in November 2020. Google Pay has done 960.02 million
transactions, worth Rs 1.61 trillion and PhonePe has done 868.4 million transactions, worth Rs 1.75
trillion.
Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance launched its new digital campaign, #heroesofmycity
On December 9, 2020 Canara HSBC Oriental Bank of Commerce (OBC) Life Insurance launched its new
digital campaign, ‘#heroesofmycity’. This 2-month long campaign is an extension to the initiative
#meformycity. #meformycity was launched by Canara HSBC OBC Life Insurance in 2018. The purpose
of designing the new digital campaign is to recognise the heroes of everyday life of the people who kept
the city going when everything was stopped due to COVID-19 pandemic.
RBI Released Draft Guidelines for NBFCs’ Dividend Payouts: December 2020
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) in its recent 4th Bi-Monthly Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) 2020-
21 announced to issue guidelines for Non-Banking Financial Companies (NBFCs) with regard to
distribution of dividend. Therefore, on December 9, 2020, the apex bank released the “Draft Circular on
Declaration of Dividend by NBFCs” to ensure greater transparency and uniformity in practice. It is open
for comments by December 24, 2020. The guidelines will be applicable for dividends to be declared for
the financial year beginning April 01, 2020 (FY 2020-21) onwards.
Equitas Small Finance Bank Ltd Launches 3 in 1 Account

On December 10, 2020 Equitas Small Finance Bank Ltd (ESFBL) headquartered at Chennai, Tamil Nadu
launched a 3-in-1 account (tripartite account), which comprises savings, trading and demat accounts for
its customers. The account enables customers to hold all their bank and financial investments under
one umbrella. This account was launched to widen the bank’s product offerings.

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IRDAI Standardised Health Policies for Robotic and Bariatric Surgeries

The Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI) has standardised all health
policies for robotic and bariatric surgeries. The robotic surgeries minimise the trauma caused to the
patient. India is the most preferred country to get high-quality treatment across the world. Bariatric
surgery is also called as Weight loss surgery, or metabolic surgery.
DBS Bank India Partners with Haqdarshak to Help Indian MSME

On December 11, 2020 DBS Bank India Ltd. (DBIL) headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra partnered
with Haqdarshak Empowerment Solutions Private Limited to help Indian MSMEs (Micro, Small and
Medium Enterprises) to recover from COVID-19 pandemic. This aid will happen through the newly
launched Haqdarshak MSME platform. The platform helps India’s enterprises to access MSME-focused
government welfare schemes, covering registrations, documentation and applications for financing
across India.
Bharti AXA Life Introduced #GotYouCovered Campaign for Frontline Workers; Partners with
Primero Skills & Training for this Initiative
Bharti AXA Life Insurance Company Limited introduced ‘#GotYouCovered Campaign’, during the
observation of Universal Health Coverage Day 2020 on December 12. The campaign is a special
initiative to appreciate the frontline healthcare workers who are working to protect people from the
ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.Bharti AXA Life Insurance has partnered with Primero Skills & Training
Pvt Ltd for its #GotYouCovered initiative.
Exim Bank Extends $ 448-million Line of Credit to Uzbekistan

On December 12, 2020, Export-Import Bank of India (Exim Bank) headquartered at Mumbai,
Maharashtra, on behalf of the Government of India, has extended a Line of Credit (LOC) of $448 million
to the Government of Republic of Uzbekistan for financing the latter’s various projects in the Roads &
Transport, Water and Technology & Communication sectors. The agreement for the same was inked by
Deputy Prime Minister & Minister of Investments and Foreign Trade, Sardor Umurzakov, Uzbekistan
and Nirmit Ved, General Manager, Exim Bank.
SEBI forms Corporation Finance Investigation Department (CFID) to check Promoter Frauds
Market watchdog Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) established in April 12, 1992 has set up
a specialised department Corporation Finance Investigation Department (CFID) to tackle initial public
offering (IPO) proceed fraud, diversion of funds, bank loans and resources by company promoters. The
new department will be headed by one of SEBI’s executive director.
RBI to Setup Automated Banknote Processing Centre in Jaipur, Rajasthan

On December 13, 2020, Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has decided to set up an Automated Banknote
Processing Centre (ABPC) in Jaipur, Rajasthan for automated receipt, storage of fresh banknotes
received from the printing presses, and then retrieval and dispatch of these banknotes to the identified
issue offices (IOs)/currency chests (CCs). The centre will also demolish the destruction of soiled
banknotes. The whole process will be done in an automated manner.
Aceware in Association with ICICI Bank Launches 'AceMoney Micro ATM service’
On December 14, 2020 Aceware in association with ICICI Bank launched ‘AceMoney Micro
ATM(Automated Teller Machine) service’ in Kochi, Kerala. This service will enable people to withdraw
money from their bank account from home. The customers of all banks can avail this service. The
money will be delivered, within 30 to 40 minutes of placing the order at the doorstep of the customer.

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Edelweiss General Insurance launches a first of its Kind, Open API Gateway
On December 14, 2020 Edelweiss General Insurance Company Limited launched a first of its kind, Open
Application Programming Interface (API) Gateway to enable full digital collaboration with its business
partners. The authorised partners of Edelweiss General Insurance, with this gateway can integrate their
systems with the technology platform of the company.
Canara Bank Launches ‘FX 4 U’

On December 12, 2020 Canara Bank headquartered at Bangalore, Karnataka launched ‘FX 4 U’, a new
technology(tech) product. This product helps the users of its Internet Banking (IB) to handle forex
transactions. The purpose of Launch is for forex remittance through internet banking. Currently, the
outward remittance module is being activated, the remaining modules will be activated shortly.
Ewire Softtech in Partnership with YES Bank Launched ‘EWIRE - YES BANK Prepaid Card’
On December 11, 2020 Ewire Softtech Pvt Ltd under the Kerala Startup Mission (KSUM) launched
‘EWIRE – YES BANK Prepaid Card’ in partnership with YES bank to establish its presence across the
country in its digitisation drive.The co-branded digital card will help the common public and corporate
houses with providing loans, insurance and CASA account through its channel partners. This can be
done via its dedicated RuPay prepaid cards platform.
ECONOMY & BUSINESS
Fitch revised India GDP forecast for FY21 to -9.4% from -10.5%
On December 8, 2020, Fitch Ratings in its recent Global Economic Outlook-December 2020 upgraded
the India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) forecast to – 9.4% in FY21 from a previously projected
contraction of 10.5%(-10.5%).The Fitch projections regarding GDP for FY22 and FY23 remained
unchanged at 11% and 6.3% respectively. In FY20, there was a GDP growth of 4.2%.
ADB Revised India’s GDP Forecast for FY21 to -8% from -9%
The Asian Development Bank’s ‘Asian Development Outlook (ADO) 2020 Supplement: Paths Diverge in
Recovery from the Pandemic’- December 2020, has revised India’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) FY21
rate upwards to -8%(contract by 8) from -9% projected in Asian Development Outlook 2020 Update in
September 2020. The Growth will return in 2021 at 8.0% in India.
CRISIL Revised India’s GDP for FY21 to -7.7% against -9% Predicted in September 2020
On December 14, 2020, Rating agency CRISIL (Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited)
projected a slower contraction of 7.7% (-7.7%) for India’s real gross domestic product (GDP) in FY21 as
compared to the -9% forecast in September 2020. The key reason behind this upward revision is faster-
than-expected recovery in the Q2FY21 (July-September 2020). For FY22, CRISIL projected a GDP
growth of 10% due to weak base and global ‘rising tide’ effect.
S&P Revises India’s Real GDP Forecast for FY21 to -7.7% from -9%
On December 15, 2020 Standard & Poors(S&P) Global Ratings has revised India’s real Gross Domestic
Product (GDP) FY21 rate upwards to -7.7%(contract by 7%) from -9% projected earlier on rising
demand and falling COVID infection rates. The growth of India will rebound to 10% in FY22. In FY21
India’s GDP contracted by 7.5% (-7.5%)in the July-September quarter and in April-June quarter
contracted by 23.9%(-23.9%).

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AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS
Gwalior & Orchha of Madhya Pradesh named in UNESCO World Heritage Cities List
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has inscribed the fort
cities of Gwalior and Orchha in Madhya Pradesh (MP) in its world heritage cities under urban landscape
city programme. This was informed by the state government of MP. With this Inclusion the total
number of UNESCO World Heritage Cities of India will increase to 40. In this regard, UNESCO team will
visit the state in 2021 and will prepare a master plan for their development and conservation under the
Historic Urban Landscape recommendation.
Invest India Won UNCTAD Investment Promotion Award for 2020

On 8th December 2020, “Invest India” won the 2020 UNCTAD Investment Promotion Award issued by
the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) at the headquarters of UNCTAD,
Geneva, Switzerland. Invest India won the award along with Rwanda Development Board, Kigali,
Rwanda and Estonian Investment Agency, a part of Enterprise Estonia in Estonia. The Costa Rican
Investment Promotion Agency (CINDE) received special recognition for its strategic approach in
addressing gender in its work.
2020 Goldman Environmental Prize Ceremony held Virtually; Paul Sein Twa of Myanmar won
in Asia Continent
The 2020 Goldman Environmental Prize ceremony was held virtually on November 30, 2020 which
recognizes six grassroots environmental activists annually from each of the world’s six continents viz.
Africa, Asia, Europe, Islands & Island Nations, North America, and South & Central America. The prize is
also known as the “Green Nobel Prize”. The 2020 ceremony was hosted by actress Sigourney Weaver.
The winners are Chibeze Ezekiel (Ghana), Kristal Ambrose (The Bahamas), Leydy Pech (Mexico), Lucie
Pinson (France), Nemonte Nenquimo (Ecuador) and Paul Sein Twa (Myanmar).
Finance Minister of India Nirmala Sitharaman Ranked 41 in the World’s 100 Most Powerful
Women 2020 by Forbes
Finance Minister of India, Nirmala Sitharaman made it to the World’s 100 most powerful women 2020
list announced in the 17th annual Forbes power list. This is the second time she features in the list, in
2019 she ranked at 34 and in 2020, she was ranked 41st position. India’s leading Business women,
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Chairman of Biocon Limited also featured in the list at 68th position.
Rank Personality Profession
41 Nirmala Sitharaman Finance Minister of India
68 Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw Founder, Chair and Managing Director, Biocon Ltd.
1 Angela Merkel Chancellor, Germany
2 Christine Lagarde President, European Central Bank
3 Kamala Harris Vice President-elect, United States
4 Ursula von der Leyen President, European Commission, European Union
5 Melinda Gates Co-Chair, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation
Bajrang Punia and Elavenil Valarivan Awarded “FICCI Sportsperson of the Year” at India Sports
Award-2020
On 10th December, 2020 Federation of Indian Commerce and Industry (FICCI) virtually presented India
Sports Awards-2020, to sports personalities for their outstanding contributions in the field of

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sports.Wrestler Bajrang Punia and Shooter Elavenil Valarivan received the highest honour
“Sportsperson of the Year of Men & Female” Award respectively.
Award Personality
Sportsperson of the Year- Female Elavenil Valarivan (Shooting)
Sportsperson of the Year- Male Bajrang Punia (Wrestler)
Best State Promoting Sports Award Madhya Pradesh
Best Company Promoting Sports
(Private Sector) Anil Kumble for Tenvic Sports
Coach of the year award Radhakrishnan Nair (Athletics)
Wrestling Federation of India and Paralympic
Best National Sports Federation Committee of India
Sundar Singh Gurjar (Javelin thrower, Shot putter and
Best Para-athlete Award – Male Discus thrower)
Best Para-athlete Award – Female Simran Sharma (Athlete)
Raj Kamal Jha Wins 3rd Edition of Rabindranath Tagore Literary Prize 2020
Raj Kamal Jha, Indian Author and the Chief Editor of The Indian Express wins 3rd Edition of
Rabindranath Tagore Literary Prize 2020 for his literary fiction novel ‘The City and the Sea’ which was
published by Penguin Random House India Private Limited.This is Raj Kamal Jha’s 5th novel. His
Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said, late Sultan of Oman and The People of Oman and Sandip
Soparrkar a renowned dancer choreographer from India named as the winner of TagorePrize for Social
Achievement 2020.
Dr. Carolina Araujo of Brazil Becomes 1st Non-Indian to Win Ramanujan Prize for Young
Mathematicians 2020 from Developing Countries
On 9th December 2020, Dr. Carolina Araujo, Brazilian Mathematician from the Institute for Pure and
Applied Mathematics (IMPA), Rio de Janeiro, Brazil was named as the winner of Ramanujan Prize for
Young Mathematicians 2020 from developing countries in a virtual ceremony. She is the 1st non-Indian
women mathematician to receive this prize. The Prize carries a cash award of USD 15,000. She won the
prize for her outstanding work in algebraic geometry, especially in bilateral geometry, and in the theory
of extremal rays.
UNESCO to Launch a USD 50,000 UNESCO-Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman

International Prize
United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in its 210th Executive Board
has adopted the proposal to launch a USD 50,000 ‘UNESCO-Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur
Rahman International Prize’, a 1st award in the field of the creative economy. The prize is named after
Bangabandhu (Friend of Bengal) Sheikh Mujibur Rahman(Sheikh Mujib or Mujib), the ‘Father of the
Nation of Bangladesh’. The award will be given from November 2021. The prize will be given once in 2
years(biennially).
Ashraf Patel of Pravah & ComMutiny Youth Collective Wins 11th Social Entrepreneur of the
Year Award- India 2020
On November 26, 2020 Ashraf Patel of Pravah & ComMutiny Youth Collective (CYC) named as the
winner of the 11th edition of Social Entrepreneur of the Year (SEOY) Award - India 2020 at a virtual
ceremony.The prize was presented by Smt. Smriti Zubin Irani, Union Minister of Women & Child
Development & Textiles, Government of India. Ashraf Patel has been developing a generation of

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empathetic, sensitive youth change-makers through psycho-social interventions, that helps them to
build more inclusive identities and societies that bring about revolutionary changes.
UNEP announces 6 Recipients for 2020 Champions of the Earth Award

On December 11, 2020, the United Nations (UN) Environment Programme (UNEP) virtually announced
6 Individuals as recipients of the 2020 Champions of the Earth Award, which is UN’s highest
environmental honour. The award is given across 5 categories – Policy Leadership, Inspiration & Action,
Science & Innovation, Entrepreneurial vision & LifeTime Achievement Award. The ‘Champions of earth’
awards are the successor to UNEP’s Global 500 Roll of Honour.
Awards:
Recipient Category Contribution
Frank Bainimarama, for global climate action work, and commitment to
Prime Minister of Fiji Policy Leadership climate-responsive national development
Dr Fabian Leendertz,
(Germany) Science & Innovation Discovery in Zoonotics & work in One Health
Mindy Lubber (United Entrepreneurial for commitment to convert capital markets green
States of America) Vision by mobilizing top investors and companies
Leadership and unifying work with indigenous
Nemonte Nenquimo communities to halt drilling in Ecuador’s Amazon
(Ecuador) Inspiration & Action rainforest
for teaching traditional nature-based solution to
Yacouba Sawadogo farmers for regeneration of soil to turn barren land
(Burkina Faso) Inspiration & Action into arable land in Africa
Professor Robert D.
Bullard (United States of Earth Lifetime For commitment and service to environmental
America) Achievement Award justice
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS
WHO Foundation Appoints Indian-origin Anil Soni as its 1st CEO

On December 8, 2020 WHO Foundation appointed Anil Soni, Indian-origin global health expert as its 1st
Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or inaugural CEO. He will take charge on January 1, 2021. Prior to his
appointment as CEO of WHO Foundation, he served as the Head of Global Infectious Diseases at Vitaris.
Romanian PM Ludovic Orban Resigned After Losing 2020 Parliamentary Election;Nicolae Ciuca
named Interim PM
On 7th December 2020, Ludovic Orban, center-right Prime Minister (PM) of Romania, leader of National
Liberal Party (PNL) resigned from his post after the ruling party lost the 2020 parliamentary election
held on 6th December 2020. The opposition party Social Democrats (PSD) won and Klaus Iohannis,
President of Romania appointed Nicolae-Ionel Ciucă, Defence Minister as the Interim Prime Minister.
Romania’s Currency - Romanian leu and
Capital– Bucharest.
Justice Rajesh Bindal Appointed as Chief Justice of Common High Court for the UT of J&K and
UT of Ladakh; Succeeds Justice Gita Mittal
On December 8, 2020 Ram Nath Kovind, President of India appointed Justice Rajesh Bindal as the Chief
Justice of the Common High Court (HC) for the Union Territory (UT) of Jammu and Kashmir(J&K) and
Union Territory of Ladakh. He will take charge on December 9, 2020. He succeeds Justice Gita Mittal, the
1st female Chief Justice of this court. President of India appointed him, in exercise of the power
conferred by Article 223 of the Constitution of India.

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Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah reappointed as Prime Minister of Kuwait

On 8th December, 2020 Kuwait’s Emir, Sheikh Nawaf Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah reappointed Sheikh Sabah Al-
Khalid Al- Sabah as the Prime Minister of Kuwait. Earlier Sabah took over the Country’s Prime
Ministership in September, 2020 after the death of his brother, Jaber Al-Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah.
He belonged to the political Party, Independent.
Judo Practitioners from Austria and Brazil Appointed as 'IJF Climate Ambassadors’
On December 4, 2020 Marius Vizer, President of International Judo Federation (IJF) appointed Judo
Practitioners (Judoka) Sabrina Filzmoser of Austria and Flavio Canto of Brazil as IJF Climate
Ambassadors. They will help IJF to help to spread the message to save the planet. Recently, IJF has
joined the UNFCCC’s (United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change) Sports for Climate
Action initiative as a signatory to the Sports for Climate Action Framework.
RBI Approves Re-appointment of Uday Kotak as MD & CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank
On December 14, 2020 Reserve Bank of India(RBI) approved the reappointment of Uday Kotak as
Managing Director(MD) and Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of Kotak Mahindra Bank(KMB) for a period of
3 years effective from 1st January 2021. RBI also granted approval for reappointing Prakash Apte as
Part –time Chairman and Dipak Gupta as joint MD for 3 years period with effect from January 1, 2021.
ACQUISITION & MERGERS
UBS Principal Capital Asia Ltd Sells Over 20 lakh shares of IndusInd Bank Ltd Worth Rs 184.51
crore
On December 4, 2020 UBS Principal Capital Asia Ltd. sold 20,70,000 shares of IndusInd Bank Ltd
through open market transaction. The shares were sold at an average price of Rs 891.4 a piece, valuing
the transaction at Rs 184.51 crore. BofA Securities Europe SA purchased the shares of IndusInd Bank at
the same price. As per the shareholding data of IndusInd Bank for September quarter 2020, UBS
Principal Capital Asia held 3.22% stake in the bank as a public shareholder.
CCI Approves Acquisition of AES’s 49% stake in OPGC by OHPC and Certain Assets of the
Prestige Group by Affiliates of Blackstone Group Inc.
On December 8, 2020 The Competition Commission of India (CCI) gave the approval for the acquisition
of the shares of Odisha Power Generation Corporation Ltd (OPGC) by Odisha Hydro Power Corporation
Limited (OHPC) under Section 31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002. CCI gave approval to the acquisition
of certain assets of the Prestige Group by affiliates of Blackstone Group Inc. Prestige has signed term
sheets to sell a large portfolio of its retail and hotel properties for an enterprise value of about Rs 9,160
crore to Blackstone Group, in November 2020.
HDFC Bank invests in smallcase Technologies

HDFC Bank has invested an undisclosed amount in Smallcase Technologies, and bought a minority
stake, as part of a recent Series B fund-raise of $14 million by the Bengaluru-based fintech startup. The
five-year old startup operates in the capital markets infrastructure space and works with businesses to
help individuals invest in simple and transparent products called smallcases.
Central Govt Sells Nearly 1 Crore shares of SUUTI’s Stake in Axis Bank; Earns about Rs 600
Crore
The central government, in the last 2 weeks has sold nearly 1 crore shares of Axis Bank worth around
Rs 600 crores held through the Specified Undertaking of the Unit Trust of India (SUUTI). SUUTI held

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4.33% stake in Axis Bank as on September 30, 2020. After this transaction, SUUTI holds 3.92%
stake(11.98 crore shares) in Axis Bank.
SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
MoHFW develops ‘Co-WIN’ – Digital Platform & Mobile App for COVID-19 Vaccination Delivery
The Ministry of Health & Family Welfare (MoHFW) has developed ‘Co-WIN’ – A Digital Platform &
Mobile Application for real-time monitoring of COVID-19 vaccine delivery and recording data. The
platform can be used by the people to register themselves for vaccination. The app can also send real-
time data of temperature of cold-storage facilities to the main server. Co-WIN will also help the
Government to monitor the entire vaccination process.
DRDO successfully demonstrates Quantum Communication between 2 Labs of DRDO using QKD
Technology
On 9th December, 2020, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) successfully
demonstrated communication between 2 labs of DRDO using Quantum Key Distribution (QKD)
Technology to share encryption keys.The 2 DRDO labs which participated are Defence Research and
Development Laboratory (DRDL) and the Research Centre Imarat (RCI). The QKD technology was
developed by CAIR (Centre for Artificial Intelligence and Robotics), Bengaluru, and DYSL-QT (DRDO
Young Scientists Laboratories-Quantum Technologies), Mumbai.
China successfully launches 2 satellites from XSLC for Gravitational Wave Detection
On December 10, 2020, China successfully launched the Gravitational Wave High-energy
Electromagnetic Counterpart All-sky Monitor (GECAM also called Huairou-1) comprising of 2 satellites
for Gravitational Wave Detection from the Xichang Satellite Launch Centre (XSLC), Sichuan Province,
China. The launch is the 355th Flight of the Long March Carrier Rocket Series and developed by China
Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC).
DRDO designed submachine gun ‘5.56X30 mm JVPC’ undergoes successful Trials

On 7th December, 2020, 5.56 X 30 mm Joint Venture Protective Carbine (JVPC) designed by Armament
Research and Development Establishment (ARDE), a lab of Defence Research and Development
Organisation (DRDO) successfully finished the final phase of user trials. The Gun will now be inducted
into the Indian Army. JVPC is a Gas Operated Semi Bull-pup automatic weapon and is capable of firing
around 700 rpm (rounds per minute).
BSE Launches ‘BSE E-Agricultural Markets Ltd.(BEAM)’, an Electronic Spot Platform for
Agricultural Commodities
On December 11, 2020 BSE (formerly known as Bombay Stock Exchange), through its subsidiary BSE
Investments Ltd., launched ‘BSE E-Agricultural Markets Ltd. (BEAM)’, an electronic spot platform for
agricultural commodities. BEAM is headquartered in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The CEO of BEAM is Rajesh
Sinha.
China becomes 2nd country to Plant its National Flag on Moon

China’s Chang’e-5 probe planted the Chinese National Flag on the Moon’s Surface. The United States was
the first country to plant its National Flag on the Lunar surface during the manned Apollo 11 mission in
1969. Chang’e-5 planted the flag before starting on its return journey from the moon. It is carrying
China’s first Lunar Samples.

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INS Himgiri, 2nd Project 17A Stealth Frigate, Launched at GRSE Yard in Kolkata
On December 14, 2020, the 2nd ship of Project 17A class of stealth frigates, namely, Indian Naval Ship
(INS) Himgiri, built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers (GRSE) was launched at its facility in
Kolkata (West Bengal). The chief guest of the launch ceremony was General Bipin Rawat, Chief of
Defence Staff (CDS) while the INS was launched by spouse of CDS, Smt Madhulika Rawat as a part of the
naval traditions.
Russia Test Launches ‘Angara A5’ Heavy Lift Space Rocket from Plesetsk Cosmodrome
On 14th December, 2020, Russia Successfully test launched ‘Angara A5’ - Heavy Lift Space Rocket from
Plesetsk Cosmodrome in Northwest Russia. This is the 2nd successful test flight of the vehicle after 1st
successful test flight in 2014. Angara is a new series of space launchers being built by Russia after the
collapse of Soviet Union. The Angara Rocket series is developed & manufactured by Khrunichev State
Research and Production Space Centre.
Indian Coast Guard’s OPV ‘Sujeet’ commissioned in Goa

On 15th December, 2020, Indian Coast Guard’s (ICG) Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) ‘Sujeet’, which is
second in the series of 5 OPVs was commissioned at the Goa Shipyard Limited (GSL) in Vasco Town, Goa
by Raj Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production). The vessel has been designed and built indigenously by
GSL.The 1st ship in series - ICGS Sachet was commissioned by Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in
May, 2020.
SpaceX’s 1st Super Heavy-lift Starship exploded during Return- landing attempt
SpaceX's first super heavy-lift Starship Prototype “SN8 rocket” explodes during a return-landing
attempt after it was launched from the company's rocket facility in Boca Chica, Texas. Elon Musk's
private space company plans to carry humans and 100 tons of cargo on future missions to the moon
and Mars through SN8 rockets. Propelled by three of SpaceX's newly developed Raptor engines the
flight reached an altitude of 41,000 feet, But the self-guided rocket blew up as it touched down on a
landing pad.
ENVIRONMENT
Ischaemum janarthanamii: A New Species of Indian Muraingrasses Discovered in Goa by ARI

Researchers
A team of researchers of Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) led by Dr. Mandar Datar and Dr.Ritesh
Kumar Choudhary have discovered a tough novel new species of Indian Muraingrasses(Genus
Ischaemum) named Ischaemum janarthanamii in Goa in the Western Ghats. The research paper about
this species was published in Annales Botanici Fennici, a Finland based journal. New species
Ischaemum janarthanamii, is named after M. K. Janarthanam, Professor of Botany, Goa University
SPORTS
Indian Cricket Team won the 2020 Dettol T20I series against Australia held in Australia
The Indian Cricket Team won the 3-match Dettol Twenty20 International (T20I) series 2020 against
Australia by 2-1. The T20I series is part of India’s Tour of Australia, 2020-21 which consists of 3 One
Day Internationals (ODIs), 3 T20Is & 4 Test matches taking place from November 2020 – January 2021.
Indian All-rounder Hardik Pandya was chosen as the Player of the Series. Virat Kohli became the First
Indian Captain to win a T20I series in SENA (South Africa, England, New Zealand, Australia) Countries.

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IOC adds Breakdance as Medal Events in 2024 Paris Olympic Games; 3 other events added in
2020 Tokyo Olympic Game
The International Olympic Committee (IOC) Executive Board added “Breaking” – a competitive form of
breakdancing & 3 other sports – Skateboarding, Sport Climbing, and Surfing to Medal Events Program
in Olympic Games. Breaking will make its Olympic debut at the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, while 3
other sports will make their Olympic debut at the 2020 Tokyo Summer Olympics to be held in July,
2021 (delayed due to COVID-19). The additional sports were proposed by the Paris 2024 Organising
Committee.
Indian Wicketkeeper-Batsman Parthiv Patel Retires from all forms of Cricket

On 9 December, 2020 Indian wicketkeeper batsman Parthiv Patel announced retirement from all forms
of cricket. Parthiv, India’s youngest wicket keeper at 17, ended his International career with 25 Tests,
38 ODIs and two T20Is. Born on 9 March 1985 at Ahmedabad. Parthiv Patel captained India at the 2002
Under-19 world cup.
Sri Lanka to host 2021 Edition of Asia Cup Cricket Tournament; Pakistan to host 2022 Edition
of Asia Cup
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Wasim Khan stated that Sri Lanka will host
the 2021 Edition of Asia Cup, Cricket tournament and Pakistan will host the 2022 Edition of Asia Cup,
Cricket tournament. In July 2020, Asia Cup’s Governing body, Asia Cricket Council (ACC) announced
that the 2020 Edition of Asia Cup was cancelled due to Pandemic. 2020 Edition was originally set to be
hosted by Pakistan, as it was cancelled Pakistan were awarded to host the 2022 Edition as
Compensation.
Max Verstappen of Red Bull Racing Honda wins Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2020
On 13th December, 2020 the Dutchman Max Verstappen won the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2020 in a
crucial race, making his second win of the year 2020. He made his first win of the year at the special
70th Anniversary Grand Prix held at the Silverstone Circuit in the United Kingdom. Valtteri Bottas
(Finland) of Mercedes finished second in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix 2020.He was followed by Lewis
Hamilton(Great Britain) of Mercedes.
Yash Vardhan wins Gold at the 6th International Online Shooting Championship (IOSC)
On 13th December, 2020 Junior Asian Champion Yash Vardhan won gold medal in the 10 m air rifle
event at the 6th International Online Shooting Championship (IOSC), the event saw the participation of
Olympic bound Martin Strempfl of Austria who won the silver medal and Oleksandr Halkin from
Ukraine won the bronze.
Ankita Raina ITF doubles title in the 23rd Al Habtoor Tennis Challenge held in Dubai
Indian tennis player Ankita Raina and Georgia’s Ekaterine Gorgodze clinched the ITF (International
Tennis Federation) Doubles title at the 23rd Al Habtoor Challenge 2020 held in Dubai by defeating
Aliona Bolsova Zadoinov (Spain) and Kaja Juvan (Slovakia). This is Ankita Raina’s 3rd Doubles Title of
the 2020 season. The al Habtoor Challenge is a hard-court event. Ankita Ravinderkrishan Raina hails
from Ahmedabad, Gujarat. She is the current Indian No.1 in both women’s singles (WTA Ranking - 180)
and Doubles (WTA Ranking - 117).

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OBITUARY
International Tennis Hall of Fame, Dennis Ralston dies at 78

On 6th December, 2020 Five-time Grand Slam doubles champion Dennis Ralston died at the age of 78.
He was the highest ranked American Tennis player for three years and got inducted into the
International Tennis Hall of Fame 10 years after his retirement.He was born on 27 July, 1942 in
Bakersfield, California.
Justice GR Udhwani of Gujarat High Court Passed Away at 59

On 6th December 2020, Justice GR Udhwani, sitting judge of Gujarat High Court passed away at the age
of 59 at a private hospital in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. He died due to COVID-19. He was born on 25th
November, 1961 in Ahmedabad. During the career of 30 years he served as additional judge of special
Prevention of Terrorism Act (POTA) court and was confirmed as a permanent judge in the High Court in
July 2014.
Hindi poet-journalist, Manglesh Dabral dies at 72

On 10 December, 2020 India’s renowned journalist & Hindi Poet, Manglesh Dabral died at the age of 72
in New Delhi due to Covid-19. As a critic of government policies, he returned his Sahitya Akademi
award in 2015 in protest against the growing climate of intolerance in the country, which he won in
2000 for his anthology “Ham Jo Dekhte Hain”, Literary work in Hindi.
Indian Dancer Astad Deboo Passed Away at 73

On 10th December 2020, Padma Shri Astad Deboo, a renowned Indian Dancer passed away at the age of
73 at his residence in Mumbai, Maharashtra. He was born on 13th July 1947 in Navsari town, Gujarat.
He received the Padma Shri for arts in 2007.
Paolo Rossi, Italian Footballer and Star of 1982 World Cup Star Passed Away at 64
On December 10, 2020 Paolo Rossi, Italian footballer, passed away at the age of 64 on Siena, Italy. He
became the star of 1982 FIFA World Cup held in Spain by scoring 6 goals, which led Italy to win the
1982 world cup title. He was born on 23rd September 1956 in Prato, Italy. Paolo Rossi received the
1982 World Cup’s Golden Boot and Golden Ball.
Renowned Sanskrit Scholar Padma Shri Bannanje Govindacharya Passed Away at 84

On 13th December 2020, Renowned Sanskrit scholar, Padma Shri Bannanje Govindacharya, passed
away at the age of 84 due to age related ailments at his residence in Ambalpady in Udupi, Karnataka. He
was a great orator and a well-known propagator of Madhwa ideology. He was born on 3rd August 1936
in Udupi, Karnataka. He received the Padma Shri for literature in 2009. He served as the brand
ambassador of India at the 1979 World Conference on Religion and Peace held in Princeton, United
States of America (USA).
Award-winning South Korean director Kim Ki-duk dies at 59

On 11th December, 2020 South Korean director Kim Ki-duk died at Lativa after getting infected by
Corona virus. He was well known worldwide by receiving the top prize “The Golden Lion Award” at
Venice Film Festival for his 2012 film “Pieta”.The 59-year-old has won multiple awards in his career
including the Best director at festivals in Venice and Berlin.He was born on 20 December 1960 in
Bonghwa, South Korea.

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Former Indian Football Player Dharmalingam Ethiraj Passed Away at 87

On 11th December 2020, the former Indian Football player Dharmalingam Ethiraj passed away at the
age of 87 at his residence in Bengaluru, Karnataka. He was a part of the Indian football team led by
Chuni Goswami, which won the gold at 1962 Asian Games, Jakarta, Indonesia. He was born in 1934 in
Ulsoor, Bengaluru, Karnataka. Madras Engineering Group named a stadium (within its premises) after
Dharmalingam Ethiraj to honour his achievements.
Padma Awardee & Eminent Aerospace Scientist Roddam Narasimha Passed Away at 87
On 14th December 2020, the eminent Aerospace scientist, Padma Bhushan and Padma Vibhushan
Awardee, Roddam Narasimha passed away at the age of 87 at a private hospital in Bengaluru,
Karnataka. He was born on 20th July 1933, Bengaluru, Karnataka. He received the Padma Bhushan in
1987 and Padma Vibhushan in 2013 for science and Engineering. He authored the book “Developments
In Fluid Mechanics and Space Technology” along with former President Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam.
Sahitya Akademi Award winning Malayalam Writer UA Khader passes away at 85

On 12th December, 2020 famous Malayalam writer UA Khader, with 5 decades of dedicated
contribution to the Malayalam Literature passed away at the age of 85 due to prolonged respiratory
ailments. Khader received the prestigious Kendra Sahitya Akademi Award in 2009 for his most
acclaimed work 'Thrikkottur Peruma' and Kerala Sahitya Akademi Award in 1983.He was Born in 1935
at Bilin, Myanmar.
BOOKS & AUTHORS
“Romancing Targets: Get Closer to Selling in 7 Steps” Authored by Nidhi Vadhera India’s First
Woman Author on Sales
Nidhi Vadhera, India’s first woman on sales authored the book titled “Romancing Targets: Get Closer to
Selling in 7 Steps”, which shows a systematic approach to achieve the targets through 7 effective steps,
which were examined and explained in the book. The book was published by Success Gyan Publishing
and launched in December 2020.
Amish Tripathi Authored his 2nd Non-fiction Book Titled “Dharma: Decoding the Epics for a
Meaningful Life”; Co-authored by Bhavna Roy
Amish Tripathi authored his 2nd nonfiction book titled “Dharma: Decoding the Epics for a Meaningful
Life”, co-authored by his sister Bhavna Roy. The book provides philosophical lessons extracted from the
ancient Hindu Epics. The book is published by Westland Publications Pvt Ltd and set to release in
December 2020. The book is targeted to reach the intelligent minds who are looking for in-depth
philosophies in a reader friendly manner.
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Releases booklet, 'Putting Farmers First’ to Highlight
Govt's Agri Reforms
On December 10, 2020 The Bureau of Outreach and Communication (BOC) of the Ministry of
Information and Broadcasting(I&B) released a booklet, 'Putting Farmers First’. It highlights the reforms
introduced by the government of India in the agriculture sector through the recent 3 farm laws enacted
and also the various steps taken since 2014 for the farmers’ welfare.
Om Birla Released a book ‘The Shaurya Unbound-Tales of Valour of the Central Reserve Police
Force’
On the occasion of the 19th anniversary of the Parliament attack 2020 ( December 13)Om Birla,
Speaker of the Lok Sabha released a hindi version of a book, ‘The Shaurya Unbound-Tales of Valour of

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the Central Reserve Police Force’ at the parliament house, New Delhi, India.The book is co-authored by
Ms Nitu, Deputy Inspector General (DIG), Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) and M. Dhinakaran, DIG
CRPF along with their team consisting of Mr Amit, Assistant Commandant CRPF and Inspector Deepak
Saxena.
IMPORTANT DAYS
36th SAARC Charter Day – December 8

SAARC Charter Day is annually observed across the member countries of South Asian Association for
Regional Cooperation (SAARC) – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan
and Sri Lanka on 8th December to mark the adoption of SAARC Charter by the member countries in
1985 to establish South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC). The 8th December 2020
marks the 36th SAARC Charter Day. As a part of the SAARC Charter day celebration Afghanistan hosts
the SAARC Youth platform’s webinar on “Youth and Human Rights, Peace Resilience and Economic
Situation of Afghanistan”.
International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and
of the Prevention of this Crime – December 9
The United Nations (UN)’s International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime
of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime is annually celebrated across the world on 9th
December to remember and honour the victims of the crime of genocide. The 9th December 2020 also
marks the 72nd anniversary of the adoption of the 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment
of the Crime of Genocide the “Genocide Convention” by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA).
“Genocide” was first coined by Polish lawyer Raphäel Lemkin in 1944.
International Anti-Corruption Day 2020: December 9

The United Nations (UN) International Anti-Corruption Day is observed annually on December 9 to
raise awareness about corruption and ways through which it can be reduced. The day also aims to
create awareness of the role of the UN Convention against Corruption and its role in combating and
preventing corruption. The day also highlights the need to eradicate corruption. Theme of International
Anti-Corruption Day 2020– ‘Recover with Integrity’. The theme highlights the countries’ urgent need to
ensure that anti-corruption is an integral part of all sustainable development efforts.
53rd Submarine Day 2020 – December 8

Indian Navy annually observes the Submarine Day on 8th December to remember and honour the
submarines and martyrs of Indian Navy who lost their lives to serve the nation. Indian Navy observed
53rd Submarine Day in the year 2020. The day marks the birth of the Submarine Arm of Indian navy
and commemorates the induction of the first submarine, Indian Naval Ship (INS) Kalvari, a foxtrot class
submarine, into the Indian Navy in 1967. This year also marks the commencement of the 50th year of
INS Virbahu, which provided the operational, logistic and administrative support to the submarines at
Visakhapatnam.
260th Army Service Corps Day Observed on December 8, 2020

On December 8, 2020, the Army Service Corps (ASC) celebrated its 260th Corps Day or Raising Day at
Headquarters Western Command Chandimandir (Chandi Mandir Cantonment) in Panchkula, Haryana.
The occasion was marked by a wreath laying ceremony at “Veer Smriti” where Harsh Chhibber, Major
General ASC, Headquarters Western Command, officers, Junior Commissioned Officers and Jawans of
Army Service Corps paid homage to the martyrs for their selfless and supreme sacrifice.

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Human Rights Day 2020 – December 10

United Nations(UN)’s Human Rights Day is annually observed across the world on 10th December, the
day marks the anniversary of the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) by the
United Nations General Assembly(UNGA) in 1948. The theme of 2020 Human Rights Day is “Recover
Better – Stand Up for Human Rights”, which is associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. On the occasion
of 2020 Human Rights Day, the Maharashtra Circle of India Post released a special cover on “Human
Rights”.
International Mountain Day 2020 - December 11

United Nations’s International Mountain Day is annually observed across the globe on 11th December
to encourage the sustainable developments in mountains and to create awareness about the
importance of mountains to life. The theme of International Mountain Day 2020 is “Mountain
Biodiversity”, which aims to celebrate the diverse biodiversity of the mountain and address the
difficulties they face.
UNICEF Day 2020 - December 11

The UNICEF (United Nations Children's Fund) day is annually celebrated on 11th December to mark the
creation of UNICEF by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) on 11th December 1946. UNICEF
was originally known as “United Nations International Children's Emergency Fund”. The year 2020
marks the 74th anniversary of the foundation of UNICEF.
International Universal Health Coverage Day 2020 - December 12

The United Nations (UN)'s International Universal Health Coverage Day (UHCDAY) is annually observed
across the globe on 12th December to raise awareness about the need for a strong and resilient health
system and universal health coverage with multi stakeholder partners. The theme of International
UHCDAY 2020 is Health for All: Protect Everyone. The day also marks the anniversary of the UN’s
endorsement of Universal health coverage in 2012.
International Day of Neutrality 2020 - December 12

United Nations (UN)’s International Day of Neutrality is annually observed across the globe on 12th
December to promote neutrality among countries and to highlight the importance of peace and develop
mutually benefiting relationships between countries. The first International Day of Neutrality was
observed on 12th December 2017.
National Energy Conservation Day 2020 - December 14

National Energy Conservation day is annually celebrated across India on 14th December to create
awareness among the general public about the importance of energy conservation for the present and
the future. Every year the Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE), an agency of the Government of India,
under the Ministry of Power organises the National Energy Conservation day with an aim to showcase
the achievements of India in energy efficiency and conservation.
International Tea Day 2020

International tea day was annually celebrated by the tea growing countries like Bangladesh, Sri Lanka,
Nepal, Vietnam, Indonesia, Kenya, Malawi, Malaysia, Uganda, India and Tanzania on 15th December
since 2005 to highlight the benefits and importance of tea in everyday life. The first UN’s International
Tea Day was observed on 21st May 2020. United Nations choose the 21st May as International tea day
since its marks the beginning of tea production season in most of the tea producing countries.

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STATE NEWS
West Bengal Cabinet approves construction of State’s 1st Deep Sea port at Tajpur
On December 7, 2020, West Bengal Cabinet approved the Construction of the State’s 1st Deep Sea Port
at Tajpur, Purba Medinipur, West Bengal. West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee stated that the
port will be built entirely by the West Bengal Government. The Tajpur Deep Sea Port under West Bengal
Maritime Board & West Bengal Industrial Development Corporation (WBIDC) will boost the seafood
exports industry in East Midnapore and also benefits lakhs of fishermen.
UP government and IWAI signs MoU to promote Water Tourism

Uttar Pradesh (UP) State tourism department signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) to promote water tourism in the state. This will allow the
operation of 2 Ro Pax Passenger vessels in Varanasi by the tourism department.
Mizoram CM Launches Employment Generation Project to assist Migrant Workers

On 9 December, 2020 the Chief Minister of Mizoram Zoramathnga launched an employment generation
project, “Livelihood Generation for Returned Migrant Workers project”, in the state to assist migrant
workers who lost their job in the Covid-19 pandemic. The total outlay of the project is Rs 3.3 crores
under Mizoram Youth Commission (MYC). The project will be funded by North East Council.
Maharashtra Government Launches “Sharad Pawar Rural Prosperity Scheme” and passes
“Sakthi Act”
On 09 December, 2020 State Government of Maharashtra led by Chief Minister(CM) Uddhav Thackeray
launched scheme “Sharad Pawar Rural Prosperity Scheme” named after Sharad Pawar, Former
Agriculture Minister, President of Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) and the chief architect of the ruling
Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA). To strengthen the law on prevention of atrocities against women, children
Maharashtra Cabinet has passed “Shakti Act” which Envisages death sentence for rape, acid attack and
child abuse.
Andhra Pradesh, Survey of India sign MoU for implementation of Land Survey;1st of its kind
survey in India
On December 9, 2020 Andhra Pradesh (AP) Government and Survey of India (SoI) signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the implementation of ‘YSR Jagananna Saswath Bhoo Hakku-
Bhoo Raksha Pathakam’ – a land resurvey project in Andhra Pradesh. This is the 1st time in 100 years
that such a survey is being conducted in India. The Survey will be launched on December 21, 2020. The
project is estimated to cost about INR 1, 000 Crore.
Odisha Government launches 2nd Edition of Eco-Retreat programme at 5 locations

Tourism Department of Odisha launched the 2nd Edition of its flagship “Eco-Retreat” programme – Eco-
Retreat 2020 at five locations in Odisha – Konark, Bhitarkanika, Daringibadi, Hirakud and Satokosia.
They will be open to Tourists till February 28, 2021.
AP CM Jagan Mohan Reddy launches ‘Jagananna Jeeva Kranthi’ scheme

On December 10, 2020, Andhra Pradesh (AP) Chief Minister (CM) Jagan Mohan Reddy virtually
launched the ‘Jagananna Jeeva Kranthi’ scheme worth INR 1, 869 Crores for distribution of 2, 49, 151
sheeps, goats for improving the living standards of women. AP Government has signed into
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Allana Group for the procurement of sheep and goats and
as a platform for marketing the meat products

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Maharashtra Govt Signs 1st of its kind MoU with Cornell University to Set up World-Class
Incubation Centre
On December 10, 2020 Maharashtra Govt signed a 1st of its kind Memorandum of Understanding(MoU)
with Cornell University, to set up a world-class incubation centre in Navi Mumbai,
Maharashtra.Maharashtra becomes the 1st state in India to set up an incubation centre. Maharashtra
Govt signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with XED Institute of Management(Asia Partner for
Cornell) to Launch ‘Cornell Maha 60’, an accelerator programme for entrepreneurs.
UP government launches scheme for Tharu tribe

Uttar Pradesh (UP) Government has launched a scheme whereby Tourists can live in the traditional
habitats of Tharu Tribe. The scheme is aimed to create jobs, increase the economic independence of the
tribal population and to put Tharu villages on Global Tourism maps. As part of scheme UP Government
will connect Tharu villages in the districts of Balrampur, Bahraich, Lakhimpur and Pilibhit bordering
Nepal along with the home stay scheme of the UP Forest Department.
Gujarat Becomes 1st Indian state to have Modernise Fire Safety Certification Process
On December 13, 2020, Gujarat became the first state in the country that has approved a system to
modernize fire safety certification process. In this regard, the approval and renewal of fire safety
certification will be done entirely on the portal called Fire Safety COP, or Fire Safety Compliance Portal
covering facilitation and empanelment of fire safety officers (FSOs) and approval and renewal of fire
safety certificate (FSC) along with provision of online payment. The system has been designed by
Gujarat Institute of Disaster Management (GIDM) under its director general PK Taneja.
Tamil Nadu CM signs 18 MoU’s for 24 Projects worth Rs. 24,248 Crores
On 14th December, 2020 Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu Edapaddi K Palaniswami signed 18
Memorandum of Understandings (MoU) for 24 projects with multiple companies attracting investment
in the state, which has the potential to create 54,218 jobs in the state. On 14th December, 2020 Ola has
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tamil Nadu state government to set up a Rs. 2400
crore Electric vehicle manufacturing hub in the state, this turns out to be the world’s largest scooter
factory.
IBM Collaborates with TASK to offer online Skill Development Programs in Telangana
On 14th December, 2020 Technology giant International Business Machines (IBM) announced
collaboration with Telangana Academy for Skill and Knowledge (TASK) to offer free degree and
polytechnic courses on emerging technologies to empower 30,000 students yearly through IBM’s free
digital education platform “Open P-TECH” for a period of one year.

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GA Questions Asked in Exams
• GA Questions Asked in IBPS Clerk Mains Exam 2020 – 90% Questions Covered by AC
• GA Questions asked in SBI PO 2019 Main Exam
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Current Affairs PDF Plans: Join @bhawna - Weekly - Quiz - Pdfs

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CURRENT AFFAIRS PDF PLANS

Current Affairs PDF 2019: Study, Pocket and Q&A PDF’s

Current Affairs PDF 2018: Study, Pocket and Q&A PDF’s

CRACK HIGH LEVEL PDF PLANS

Crack High Level: English Language Questions PDF 2019

Crack High Level: Data Interpretation Questions PDF 2019

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Current Affairs Weekly PDF – December 2020 2nd

PM Inaugurated Construction Work of Agra Metro Project in Agra, UP

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Mastercard, ni-msme and CII Partners to Launch Digital Saksham

NHPC to commission 2, 000 MW Hydropower project on Subansiri River by March 2022

Indian Navy finalises procurement of Israeli ‘SMASH 2000’ Anti-Drone Systems

Cabinet Approvals on December 9, 2020

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NE states, UP, Bihar top in pandemic management: SBI Study

Lakshadweep becomes India’s First 100% Organic Union Territory

IESA, UNIDO tie up to Boost Energy Storage Innovations in India

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IndUS Entrepreneurs (TiE) Global Summit-2020 held Virtually from Hyderabad

Central Government Launched a Program for Beneficiaries of PM SVANidhi

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CII Signs MoU with Amazon India to Bring to MSMEs

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6th India-Japan ICT Joint Working Group meet held virtually

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India drops to 2nd Position in BNEF’s 2020 Climatescope survey

17th International Inter-Ministerial Conference on South-South Cooperation held Virtually

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India Contributed US$ 2 mn to UNRWA to Support Programmes for Palestine refugees

8th Meeting of India-Nepal JSC on Cooperation in Power Sector held virtually

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India, Qatar set up task force to identify projects for investment

Singapore to host Special Annual Meeting of WEF in May 2021

2nd Bangladesh-India Cotton Fest 2020 held at Dhaka, Bangladesh

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BANKING & FINANCE

Bank of Baroda Launches Atmanirbhar Women Scheme

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RBI Cancelled Licence of Karad Janata Sahakari Bank , Maharashtra

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IRDAI proposes a cap of Rs 1 cr in draft norms on Standard Accident Insurance Policies

Equitas Small Finance Bank Ltd Launches 3 in 1 Account

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IRDAI Standardised Health Policies for Robotic and Bariatric Surgeries

DBS Bank India Partners with Haqdarshak to Help Indian MSME

Exim Bank Extends $ 448-million Line of Credit to Uzbekistan

RBI to Setup Automated Banknote Processing Centre in Jaipur, Rajasthan

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Canara Bank Launches ‘FX 4 U’

ECONOMY & BUSINESS

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AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

Invest India Won UNCTAD Investment Promotion Award for 2020

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UNESCO to Launch a USD 50,000 UNESCO-Bangladesh Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman

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UNEP announces 6 Recipients for 2020 Champions of the Earth Award

APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

WHO Foundation Appoints Indian-origin Anil Soni as its 1st CEO

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Sheikh Sabah Al-Khalid Al-Sabah reappointed as Prime Minister of Kuwait