March Pocket

Current Affairs Pocket PDF
Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 1

This is Paid PDF provided by AffairsCloud.com, Our team is working hard

in back end to provide quality PDF. If you not buy this paid PDF
subscription plan, we kindly request you to buy pdf to avail this service.
Help Us to Grow & Provide Quality Service
AffairsCloud launched a new long awaited mobile app.

App name: “CareersCloud”
All Current Affairs content, quizzes and pdfs will be available in the above-
mentioned app in Google Play store.
Courses offered:
Paid Course Name: Crack Current Affairs 2021(English & Hindi)
Get Extra 10% Discount code: “PDF10”
Free Course Names: i. Learn Current Affairs in English
ii. Learn Current Affairs in Hindi
Click here to Download the CareersCloud APP
Suggestions & Feedback are welcomed
Support@affairscloud.com

Current Affairs Pocket PDF – March 2021

Table of Contents
NATIONAL AFFAIRS ........................................................................................................................................................ 6
CABINET APPROVALS ................................................................................................................................................. 6
PARLIAMENT NEWS ................................................................................................................................................... 8
STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS................................................................................................................................... 8
LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION ................................................................................................................................. 14
FESTIVALS ................................................................................................................................................................. 18
OTHER NATIONAL NEWS ......................................................................................................................................... 19
GOVT SCHEMES ............................................................................................................................................................. 26
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS ........................................................................................................................................... 27
VISITS ............................................................................................................................................................................. 29
INDIAN VISIT ............................................................................................................................................................. 29
FOREIGN VISIT .......................................................................................................................................................... 30
BANKING & FINANCE.................................................................................................................................................... 30
RBI IN NEWS .............................................................................................................................................................. 30
BANKING TECHNOLOGY ........................................................................................................................................... 32
LOANS ISSUED BY BANKS ........................................................................................................................................ 32
AGREEMENTS & MoUs SIGNED................................................................................................................................ 33
OTHER BANKING NEWS ........................................................................................................................................... 34
FINANCE NEWS ......................................................................................................................................................... 39
ECONOMY & BUSINESS ................................................................................................................................................. 42
GDP & GROWTH RATE .............................................................................................................................................. 42
ECONOMY NEWS ....................................................................................................................................................... 43
BUSINESS NEWS ........................................................................................................................................................ 44
MoU’s & AGREEMENTS ................................................................................................................................................. 45
MoU’s BETWEEN COUNTRY ..................................................................................................................................... 45
MoU’s WITH STATES ................................................................................................................................................. 45
MoU’s BETWEEN ORGANIZATION........................................................................................................................... 46
OTHER MoU’S IN CONTENT FORMAT ..................................................................................................................... 50
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS ............................................................................................................................. 50
APPOINTMENTS ........................................................................................................................................................ 50
NATIONAL .................................................................................................................................................................. 50
INTERNATIONAL....................................................................................................................................................... 54
BRAND & CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS .................................................................................................................... 56
OTHER APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS ........................................................................................................... 56

AWARDS ......................................................................................................................................................................... 57
AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF ARTS & CULTURE FILMS............................................................................................ 57
AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SOCIAL SERVICE, SCIENCE & BRAVERY ................................................................... 59
AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS ........................................................................................................................ 59
OTHER IMPORTANT AWARDS ................................................................................................................................. 60
RECOGNITIONS ......................................................................................................................................................... 63
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN CONTENT FORMAT .............................................................................................. 63
SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE............................................................................................................................ 64
SUMMITS .................................................................................................................................................................... 64
EVENTS ...................................................................................................................................................................... 65
CONFERENCE ............................................................................................................................................................ 67
COMMITTEES & MEETINGS ......................................................................................................................................... 68
COMMITTEES............................................................................................................................................................. 68
MEETINGS .................................................................................................................................................................. 69
COMMITTEES & MEETING IN CONTENT FORMAT ................................................................................................ 69
INDEX ............................................................................................................................................................................. 70
RANKING .................................................................................................................................................................... 70
REPORTS .................................................................................................................................................................... 75
RANKING & REPORTS IN CONTENT FORMAT ........................................................................................................ 82
ACQUISITION & MERGERS ........................................................................................................................................... 82
DEFENCE ........................................................................................................................................................................ 85
EXERCISE ................................................................................................................................................................... 85
TESTING ..................................................................................................................................................................... 87
DEALS & MoU’s .......................................................................................................................................................... 87
ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS............................................................................................................................ 88
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY............................................................................................................................................. 90
SATELLITES LAUNCHES ........................................................................................................................................... 90
NATIONAL .................................................................................................................................................................. 91
INTERNATIONAL....................................................................................................................................................... 93
SPORTS ........................................................................................................................................................................... 94
CRICKET ..................................................................................................................................................................... 94
BADMINTON & TENNIS ............................................................................................................................................ 95
ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL ........................................................................................................................................... 96
BOXING, WRESTLING & WEIGHTLIFTING .............................................................................................................. 97
ARCHERY & SHOOTING ............................................................................................................................................ 98
OTHER SPORTS NEWS .............................................................................................................................................. 98
BOOKS & AUTHORS....................................................................................................................................................... 99

OBITUARY .................................................................................................................................................................... 105
NATIONAL ................................................................................................................................................................ 105
INTERNATIONAL..................................................................................................................................................... 107
IMPORTANT DAYS ...................................................................................................................................................... 108
APPS & WEB PORTAL ................................................................................................................................................. 117
ENVIRONMENT ........................................................................................................................................................... 121

NATIONAL AFFAIRS
CABINET APPROVALS
Cabinet Approvals on March 3, 2021
On March 3, 2021, The Union Cabinet chaired by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi approved the
following Memorandum of Understandings (MoUs).
• MoU between India & France in the field of Renewable Energy cooperation. Technical
knowledge will help India to attain its target of 450 GigaWatts (GW) of installed Renewable
Energy Capacity by 2030.
• MoU between India & Fiji for cooperation in the field of Agriculture and Allied Sectors.

Cabinet approved for the creation of Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Nidhi (PMSSN) as a single non-
lapsable reserve fund for health from Health & Education Cess. PMSSN will be administered &
maintained by the Ministry of Health &Family Welfare (MoHFW).
Cabinet approved the Amendment for Insurance Act, 1938 to increase FDI in the Insurance Sector to
74% from 49%.The increase in FDI is expected to improve capital availability & boost competition in
the sector…Click here for complete detail

On March 16, 2021, the Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi gave approval to
several important proposals. They are
i.Approval for the closure of Handicrafts and Handlooms Export Corporation of India Limited (HHEC).
ii.Approval for Revised Cost Estimates for the strengthening of Transmission & Distribution in
Arunachal Pradesh & Sikkim.
iii.Clearance for Development Finance Institution (DFI) with Capital Infusion of INR 20, 000 Crore.
iv.MoU between India & Maldives on Cooperation in Sports and Youth Affairs…Click here for more
detail

On March 23, 2021, the Union Cabinet headed by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi approved several
important proposals.
• Cabinet was appraised on the progress under the National Health Mission (NHM) during FY
2019-20.
• Approval of signing of MoU between UPSC, India & Independent Administrative Reforms & Civil
Services Commission (IARCSC), Afghanistan.
• Memorandum of Cooperation signed between India & Japan in Water Resources Field.
• The Union Cabinet approved the signing of a MoU between Union Public Service Commission
(UPSC), India & Independent Administrative Reforms and Civil Services Commission (IARCSC),
Afghanistan.
• The Union Cabinet approved an MoC signed between the Department of Water Resources, River
Development and Ganga Rejuvenation, Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India & Water and
Disaster Management bureau, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism of Japan
in the field of Water resources…Click here for more detail

Launched 2 New Paid Courses !!!!!!
New Course names :- 1.Crack High level Puzzle & Seating arrangement and 2.Crack High level Data
interpretation
We are pleased to serve with part of your preparation so we have activated the above mentioned 2 paid
courses will be added to our subscribers who have already purchased the “Crack Current Affairs 2021” plan
from January 2021.
To check the 2 additional free paid courses in your plan – Go to ‘My Course’ under Bank & Insurance preference
in CareersCloud App.

PARLIAMENT NEWS
Government amends Insurance Ombudsman Rules, 2017 ‘Insurance Ombudsman
(Amendment) Rules, 2021
On March 2, 2021, the Central Government amended Insurance Ombudsman Rules, 2017 by exercising
the powers conferred under section 24 of the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority Act,
1999. The amended rules are called as ‘Insurance Ombudsman (Amendment) Rules, 2021‘.Ombudsman
mechanism was administered by the Executive Council of Insurers, which is now renamed as the
Council for Insurance Ombudsmen. These were amended to have a better sight of policyholders’
complaints regarding insurance service deficiencies and to improve the working of the mechanism.
President Ram Nath Kovind gives Assent to 3 Major Bills

President Ram Nath Kovind gave his Assent to 3 Major Bills passed by the Indian Parliament. They are
National Bank for Financing Infrastructure and Development (NaBFID) Bill, 2021, The Government of
National Capital Territory of Delhi (Amendment) Bill, 2021, The Mines and Minerals (Development and
Regulation) Amendment Bill, 2021….Click here for detail about these three bills
STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS

Andhra Pradesh
AP Became the First State to Incorporate Gender Budget in its FY 2021-22 Annual Budget
On 8th March 2021, International women’s day, Andhra Pradesh(AP) Chief Minister YS Jagan Mohan
Reddy announced that the state would become the first state of India to incorporate the Gender Budget
in its annual budget of the fiscal year 2021 to 2022 with an aim to provide better service to women. The
gender budget list outs the expenditure for women welfare under various schemes of the state. He
launched the SWECHHA (freedom) Programme to create awareness about menstrual hygiene among
the adolescent girls.
India’s 1st Govt. run Veterinary Ambulance Network set-up in Andhra Pradesh
Andhra Pradesh govt. is planning to set-up India’s 1st Government run Mobile Ambulance Veterinary
Clinic network in the state. Each Assembly Constituency in the state will be provided with 1 Ambulance
along with 1 veterinary doctor, 1 Para-veterinary worker. The Ambulance is equipped with a ‘Hydraulic
Lift’ facility to shift the injured animal to the hospital.
Hardeep Singh Puri, MoS Civil Aviation, Inaugurated the Kurnool Airport, AP
25th March 2021, Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister of State(Independent Charge), Ministry of Civil Aviation
inaugurated the Kurnool Airport, Oravackal in Andhra Pradesh(AP) over a virtual ceremony.The
Airport was named as "Uyyalawada Narasimha Reddy airport".Y.S. Jagan Mohan Reddy, Chief Minister
of Andhra Pradesh attended the inauguration at Kurnool airport. The Kurnool Airport became the 6th
Airport in AP to become functional after Kadapa, Visakhapatnam, Tirupati, Rajahmundry & Vijayawada.
Maithri Aquatech set up the ‘World’s first mobile water-from-air kiosk’

Maithri Aquatech, a start-up, formed under the initiative ‘Make in India’ has set up the ‘World’s First
Mobile Water from Air Kiosk and Water Knowledge Centre’ with the use of its ‘MEGHDOOT solution’ in
Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh.MEGHDOOT means ‘Messenger of the Sky’s.This initiative is supported
by GVMC (Greater Visakhapatnam Municipal Corporation) and project SEWAH (Sustainable Enterprises
for Water and Health).

Arunachal Pradesh
Arunachal Pradesh Dy CM presented Rs 578.50cr Deficit State Budget for FY22
On March 4, 2021, Arunachal Pradesh’s (AR) Deputy Chief Minister (CM) and Finance Minister Chowna
Mein presented Rs 578.50 crore deficit state budget for FY2021-22 at the state assembly in Itanagar.
However, the fiscal deficit of the state has decreased to 2.19% from 2.28% in FY21. In accordance with
the Union Budget FY22, the Arunachal Pradesh share of Central Taxes is pegged at Rs 11693.94cr. The
state will observe year 2021 as ‘Year of Education’ to improve the quality of education.
Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu launched ‘Dekho Apna Pradesh’

On March 22, 2021, Arunachal Pradesh Chief Minister Pema Khandu launched ‘Dekho Apna
Pradesh’campaign, in line with Ministry of Tourism’s initiative ‘Dekho Apna Desh’(DAD) to promote
tourism within the state and to heal the damage caused to the sector by the COVID 19. The Ministry is
organising a series of Webinars under the overall theme of ‘DekhoApna Desh’, a total of 81 Webinars
have been organised up to date.
Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh CM Bhupesh Baghel presented HEIGHT State Budget worth Rs 97,106cr for FY22
On March 1, 2021, the Chief Minister (CM) of Chhattisgarh Bhupesh Baghel, who also holds the Finance
portfolio, presented a budget of Rs 97,106 crore for 2021-22 based on HEIGHT. The state budget has
made 38% provision for the social sector, 39% for the economic sector and 23% for the general service
sector. No new taxes are proposed in this budget.
Delhi
Delhi Government presents INR 69, 000 Crore State Budget terms it ‘Deshbhakti Budget’
Delhi Deputy Chief Minister (CM) Manish Sisodia who also holds the Finance Portfolio presented the
State Budget 2021-22 with an outlay of INR 69, 000 Crores. He termed the budget as ‘Deshbhakti
budget’ as the government has decided to celebrate the 75th year of Independence (in 2021) as tribute
to martyrs of the freedom movement. It was Delhi’s 1st Paperless Budget.
Goa
IBM partners with Govt. of Goa to provide Free Skill Training to Youth
On 2nd March, 2021, International Business Machines (IBM) India partnered with the state government
of Goa to provide free online courses to students, Job seekers & Entrepreneurs of the state. This
initiative is aimed at upskilling 10,000 youths across 10 institutions in 1 year through IBM SkillBuild
Program.The objective is to enhance the technical and professional skills to students, Job Seekers &
Entrepreneurs.
Gujarat
Gujarat Deputy CM Nitin Patel presents State Budget 2021-22 with an outlay of INR 2.27 Lakh
Crore
On March 3, 2021, Gujarat Deputy Chief Minister (CM) Nitin Patel who holds the Finance Portfolio
presented the State Budget 2021-22 with a Budget Outlay of INR 2, 27, 029 Crore which is an increase
of INR 9, 742 Crore than the budget presented in 2020-21. INR 2.27 Lakh Crore is said to be Gujarat’s
Largest budget so far.It was a INR 587.88 Crore Surplus budget. The state government has not imposed
any increase or offered any relief in Gujarat’s existing tax structure. Click here for complete detail

Haryana
Haryana CM presents State Budget for FY 2021-22 with an overlay of INR 1.55 Lakh Crore
Haryana Chief Minister (CM) Manohar Lal Khattar who also holds the Finance Portfolio presented the
state budget for FY 2021-22 with an overlay of INR 1, 55, 645 Lakh Crore. The areas of focus were
health, agriculture & infrastructure. The INR 1, 55, 645 fvcrore allocated for FY 2021-22 is an increase
of 13% over FY 2020-21 of INR 1, 37, 738 Crore.The budget has proposed setting up Special Education
Zones (SEZs) to promote technology-based learning in government schools.
Jammu and Kashmir

J&K Lt Governor Manoj Sinha Launched Super-75 Scholarship Scheme for Girls Education
On 8th March 2021, International Women’s Day, the Lieutenant(Lt) Governor of Jammu and
Kashmir(J&K) launched the Super-75 scholarship scheme to support the education of the meritorious
girls from poor families. Keeping in view of this year’s campaign theme of International Women’s Day
Choose to Challenge and to celebrate Azaadi Ka Amrut Mahotsav- India@75, the Lt Governor
announced the launch of Super-75 scholarship scheme. Lt Governor also launched a new scheme
“Tejaswini” under the Mission Youth to provide financial support for business of Rs.5 Lakhs to girls of
age group 18 to 35.
J&K approves Rs. 2 lakhs worth Interest-free Housing loans under PMAY-U
On 14th March, 2021 Jammu & Kashmir’s (J&K) Administrative Council under the chairmanship of
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, approved to provide additional interest-free loan up to Rs. 2 lakhs
for construction of houses. The loan will be provided to the economically weaker section to the
beneficiaries under Beneficiary Led Construction (BLC) component of the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana-
Urban (PMAY-U).India is targeting to provide “Housing for all” through PMAY-U by 2022.
J&K Govt approved to establish Ratle Hydroelectric Power Corporation to develop 850 MW
HEP on Chenab River
On 17th March 2021, the Administration Council of Jammu & Kashmir(J&K) under the chairship of
Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha approved the incorporation of Ratle Hydro-electric Power
Corporation, a joint venture company(JVC), to implement 850 MW Ratle Hydro-Electric Project (HEP)
on river Chenab in Kishtwar district. The authorised capital of the JVC is Rs 1,600 crore with initial paid-
up capital of Rs 100 crore.
Chinar Day Observed in Jammu and Kashmir

Chinar Day was celebrated across Jammu and Kashmir on 15th March 2021. As a part of the Chinar Day
celebration, The Urban Forest Division(UFD) of Srinagar organised programmes at the Shuhama
Campus of Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST) and planted
the Chinar saplings within the SKUAST premises. The government of J&K has launched a drive to
protect the Chinars, the endangered heritage of the oriental plane trees of Kashmir and plant chinar
trees, popularly known as Bune all across the J&K.
Jharkhand
Jharkhand FM presented Rs 91,277 crore State budget for 2021-22
Finance Minister of Jharkhand, Dr Rameshwar Oraon, presented the state budget worth Rs 91,277 crore
for FY2021-22 in the State Assembly at Ranchi. The budget saw an increase over Rs 7,100 crore (almost
11%) as compared to FY21. The focus of the budget is to provide employment opportunities in rural
areas. Fiscal deficit- Rs 10,210.87cr which is 2.83% of GSDP (gross state domestic product).

Jharkhand Launched SAAMAR Campaign to Fight Malnutrition
On 17th March 2021, the Government of Jharkhand launched the SAAMAR (Strategic Action for
Alleviation of Malnutrition and Anemia Reduction) campaign to tackle acute malnutrition in children
and women in the state.The SAAMAR campaign is launched with a target of 1000 days, under which an
annual survey will be conducted to track the progress. For the implementation of the SAAMAR
campaign, a provision of Rs.1 lakh will be given to every panchayat.
Karnataka
Karnataka Government launched 1st of its kind Engineering Research & Development Policy
2021
On 2nd March 2021, State Govt. of Karnataka launched the 1st of its kind Engineering Research &
Development (ER&D) Policy 2021 that is aimed at making the state responsible for 45% of India’s
growth in the engineering sector by 2025. This policy has the potential to provide employment
opportunities to 50,000 in 5 target ER&D sectors making India an ‘Innovation driver’ of the World.
Karnataka CM B.S. Yediyurappa presents State Budget for FY 2021-22 with an outlay of INR 2,
46, 207 Crore
Karnataka Chief Minister (CM) B.S. Yediyurappa who also holds the Finance Portfolio presented the
State Budget for FY 2021-22 (‘Karnataka Vikasa Patra 2021’) with an outlay of INR 2, 46, 207 Crore.No
Additional Taxes were levied in the Budget.It was a revenue deficit budget, the estimated revenue
deficit for 2021-22 is INR 15, 134 Crore.The size of the budget is INR 8, 314 Crore more than the budget
allocated in 2020-21.Karnataka’s Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) contracted by 2.6% in 2020-21.
Ladakh
Ladakh LG launches 1st Solar Lift Irrigation Scheme of KREDA at Latoo Village
Ladakh Lieutenant Governor R K Mathur inaugurated the 1st Solar Lift Irrigation Scheme of Kargil
Renewable Energy Development Agency (KREDA) at Latoo Village, Kargil. It is the last Village on Line of
Control (LoC). KREDA has successfully installed and commissioned a 41 Horsepower Submersible
Pump backed with 50 Kw Solar Photovoltaic Plant, making it the 1st Prototype of the Solar Lift
Irrigation System in Ladakh built in collaboration with the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development
Council (LAHDC).
Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh FM Jagdish Devda presents State Budget 2021-22 with an outlay of INR 2.41
Lakh Crore
On March 2, 2021, Madhya Pradesh (MP) Finance Minister Jagdish Devda presented the Annual Budget
for the year 2021-22 with an outlay of INR 2,41,375 Crore. The main focus of the budget was on making
Madhya Pradesh self-reliant. There was no proposal to levy new taxes in the Budget.The Gross State
Domestic Product (GSDP) of MP is estimated to reach INR 10 Lakh Crore in the Financial Year (FY)
2021-22. Click here to read the full budget
Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan Launched The Mission Gramodaya

On 18th March 2021, Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Chief Minister(CM) of Madhya Pradesh(MP) and Narendra
Singh Tomar, Union Minister, Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare jointly launched the Mission
Gramodaya for the development of villages in MP. It aims to provide basic and fundamental
infrastructure to rural areas in the state and to provide housing to the needy.

Maharashtra
Maharashtra FM Ajit Pawar presents State Budget 2021-22 with an outlay of INR 4, 84, 118.19
Crore
On March 8, 2021, Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister (CM) & Finance Minister Ajit Pawar presented
the state budget for the year 2021-22 with an outlay of INR 4, 84, 118.19 Crore. Infrastructure
development, health, agriculture, Nari Shakti were the main areas of focus. Maharashtra’s first Women
Battalion of the State Reserve Police Force has been announced. Expected Growth (based on 2021-22
economic survey of Maharashtra) is -8% in 2020-21 & Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) to fall by
INR 1, 56, 925 Crore.
Mizoram
Mizoram CM presents State Budget for the year 2021-22 with an outlay of INR 11,148.89 crore
Mizoram Chief Minister Zoramthanga who also holds the Finance Portfolio presented the annual budget
for the year 2021-22 with an outlay of INR 11, 148.90 crores. Revenue Expenditure for 2021-22 – INR 9,
216.39 Crore which is 82.67 % of the total budget.
Gross Fiscal Deficit for fiscal 2021-22 – 2.14% and the primary deficit is 1.12% of the State Gross
Domestic Product (GSDP).
Odisha
Odisha Govt Partners with ICRISAT to Support the PVTGs in 12 Districts
On 2nd March 2021, Government of Odisha signed an agreement with International Crops Research
Institute for the Semi-Arid Tropics (ICRISAT) to strengthen the management of natural resources that
benefits the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups(PVTGs) in 12 districts of the State.The agreement is
valid for a period of 3 years. The area of intervention under this agreement is over 12 districts of the
state. The collaboration is a part of the PVTGs Empowerment and Livelihoods Improvement
Programme of Odisha, which is funded by the International Fund for Agricultural Development(IFAD)
in India.
Odisha Govt. to set up ‘Mission Shakti’ Department to strengthen SHGs

On March 06,2021, Ahead of International Women’s Day, the Odisha government in its cabinet meeting
which is chaired by Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik has approved to set up a new department called
“Department of Mission Shakti” to strengthen both the rural and urban Self Help Groups (SHGs) in the
state. Now both the Directorate of Mission Shakti and Odisha Livelihood Mission (OLM) will come under
the Department of Mission Shakti.
Odisha celebrates 100th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s Visit to Cuttack

Odisha state celebrates the 100th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s visit to the state with a
Commemorative postage stamp. Mahatma Gandhi made his 1st visit to Odisha, at Swaraj ashram in
Cuttack on 23rd March 1921.The Odisha Cabinet also passed a resolution to include the word “Ahimsa”
into the preamble of the Constitution of India.A 5-day long photo exhibition was organised in Cuttack by
the Regional Outreach Bureau of Bhubaneshwar, as a part of the ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ launched by
Govt. of India to mark the 75th Independence day.
Punjab
Punjab FM Manpreet Singh Badal presents State Budget for FY 2021-22 with an outlay of INR 1,
68, 015 Crore
Punjab Finance Minister (FM) Manpreet Singh Badal presented the State Budget for FY 2021-22 with an
outlay of INR 1, 68, 015 Crore. Debts worth INR 1,186 Crore will be waived for around 1.13 Lakh Small
& Marginal Farmers. The Allotment for Shagun scheme (also known as Aashirwad Scheme) has been

increased from INR 21, 000 to INR 51, 000.It is a scheme for providing financial assistance to a girl’s
marriage.
Punjab partners with UN & other global agencies to launch 8 schemes for Women
Punjab Government has partnered with United Nations (UN) & other agencies for empowering women.
He also launched 8 schemes for women to mark the International Women’s Day (March 8). They are
aimed at safeguarding women from crimes, protecting their rights & introducing gender sensitisation
curriculum. The International agencies are UN Women, UNDP (United Nations Development Fund), UN
Population Fund, J-PAL (Abdul Latif Jameel Poverty Action Lab) & FUEL (Friends Union for Energizing
Lives).
Rajasthan
Denmark to set up Center of Excellence for dairy sector in Rajasthan
On March 06,2021, Denmark Ambassador Freddy Svane had a meeting with Rajasthan CM Ashok Gehlot
and Governor Kalraj Mishra to set up a Centre of Excellence for the dairy sector in Rajasthan to provide
technical support in water conservation and purification works in the urban areas of Udaipur. The
Rajasthan dairy market has exhibited a strong growth during 2015-2020.Rajasthan is the second
highest milk producing state in India contributing around 11% to the total milk production.
Rajasthan Government to launch ‘Universal Health Scheme’ from May 1, 2021

Rajasthan Chief Minister (CM), Ashok Gehlot announced to implement Universal Health named
‘Mukhyamantri Chiranjeevi Yojana’ from May 1, 2021. The scheme will provide free annual medical
insurance of upto INR 5 Lakh for every family in the State. The Universal Health Scheme is worth INR 3,
500 Crore and was announced during the Rajasthan State Budget for the FY 2021-22.
Telangana
We Hub collaborates with Australia to launch Women Entrepreneurship program “UPSurge”
In March 2021, WE Hub, a government of Telangana initiative partnered with Australian government to
launch “UPSurge” a 12-week pre-incubation program conducted across India. The program is targeted
towards Women Entrepreneurs to minimise financial risk while selling novel products & achieve
financial independence. Australia is the first International Partner of WE Hub, when they jointly
launched the “Community Slate” program that was concluded in 2020.
Telangana FM Harish Rao presents State Budget for FY 2021-22 with an overlay of INR 2.3 Lakh
Crore
On March 18, 2021, Telangana Finance Minister T Harish Rao presented the State Budget for the FY
2021-22 with an overlay of INR 2, 30, 825 Crore. Major Allocations were made towards Agriculture,
Roads, Transport, Power, Irrigation & other infrastructure development projects.It is a tax-free
Budget.Due to the adverse impact of COVID-19, the Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) of Telangana
has declined from 13.5% in 2019-20 to 1.3% in 2020-21.
Uttarakhand
Uttarakhand CM Trivendra Singh Rawat presents State Budget 2021-22 with an outlay of INR
57, 400 Crores
On March 4, 2021, Uttarakhand Chief Minister (CM) Trivendra Singh Rawat presented the State Budget
2021-22 with an outlay of INR 57, 400 Crores. The budget put more emphasis on infrastructure
development, health, rural infrastructure, employment generation and education.The budget estimate
for 2021-22 was 7.23% higher than the estimate for the current fiscal (2020-21). INR 25 Crore under
new Chief Minister Ghasiyari Kalyan Yojana under which green fodder will be provided to women at
cheap price from ration & fair price shops.

Uttar Pradesh
Kushinagar Airport Becomes 3rd Licensed International Airport of UP
Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has given 4C license to Kushinagar Airport, Kushinagar
district, UttarPradesh(UP) to operate international flights. With this, the airport has become the 3rd
licensed International Airport of UP after Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow,
and Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport in Varanasi. It is the 87th airport in India. The airport
will operate both domestic and international flights.
UP Gets 8th Airport at Bareilly; Became 1st State to have highest Number of Airports
Bareilly Airport became the 8th Airport of Uttar Pradesh(UP). The Trishul Military Airbase has been
upgraded as the Bareilly Airport for commercial flight operations under the Regional Connectivity
Scheme – Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik (RCS-UDAN) of the Government of India.UP became the first state of
India to have the highest number of Airports. Bareilly became the 56th Airport to be operationalized
under the UDAN scheme.
UP CM Launches ‘Path Pradarshak’ Free Coaching Facility for Competitive exams

Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has launched ‘Path Pradarshak’ free coaching facility for
Competitive exams under the ‘Mukhyamantri Abhyudaya Yojana’. Under the initiative, students will be
provided free assistance by IAS & Provincial Civil Service officers for the preparations.
Consulate General of India in South Africa Partnered With UP to Boost Post COVID-19 Tourism
in India
The Consulate General of India in South Africa partnered with Uttar Pradesh(UP) to boost the post
COVID-19 Tourism in India and highlight the various religious sites and other attractions in UP.On 24th
March 2021, During the meeting titled “Post COVID Tourism in India” the detailed plans to attract
tourists to UP was shared by Mukesh Kumar Meshram, Principal Secretary for Tourism and Culture in
UP.
UP Cabinet Approves Scheme Offering Affordable Rental Housing For Urban Migrants & Poor
On 26th March 2021, the Cabinet of Uttar Pradesh(UP) presided over by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath
approved the Affordable Rental Housing and Complexes (ARHC) scheme, to offer affordable rental
housing for the poor people living in cities. The scheme was launched by the Government of India
through the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs(MoHUA). The scheme is launched under the ‘Self
Reliant India Campaign’.
UP CM Inaugurated Shaheed Ashfaq Ulla Khan Zoo in Purvanchal

On March 27, 2021, Uttar Pradesh (UP) Chief Minister (CM) Yogi Adityanath inaugurated Shaheed
Ashfaq Ulla Khan Zoological Park in Gorakhpur, Uttar Pradesh which is named after freedom fighter
Shaheed Ashfaq Ullah Khan to create possibilities for tourism in the region. It became the third zoo of
the state after Kanpur Zoological Park and Nawab Wajid Ali Shah Prani Udyan and the first zoo in the
Purvanchal region. The construction of the zoo has been completed in four years with the estimated
cost of Rs 260 crore.
LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION

India-US launched U.S. India Artificial Intelligence (USIAI) Initiative
On March 17, 2021, Prof Ashutosh Sharma, Secretary, Department of Science & Technology stated that,
India & United States (US) has launched the Indo-U.S. Science and Technology Forum’s U.S. India
Artificial Intelligence (USIAI) Initiative during the launch ceremony organized by Indo-U.S. Science and

Technology Forum (IUSSTF). This initiative will enhance the Science & Technology(S&T) relationship
between India and the United States to solve problems of both countries.
PM Narendra Modi Virtually Inaugurated ‘Maitri Setu’ Bridge between India and Bangladesh
Over Feni River
On March 9, 2021, PM Narendra Modi Inaugurated the ‘Maitri Setu’ (India-Bangladesh Friendship
Bridge) virtually between India and Bangladesh over Feni River at Sabroom in south Tripura which is
set to become the ‘Gateway of North East’. Maitri Setu Bridge Connects Tripura, India with Ramgarh in
Bangladesh. National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd constructed the
Bridge at a project cost of Rs. 133 Crores.
MoHUA launches Field Assessment of Swachh Survekshan 2021

On March 1, 2021, Durga Shanker Mishra, Secretary of Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA)
launched the field assessment for the 6th Edition of the Annual Cleanliness Survey ‘Swachh Survekshan
2021 (SS2021)’ (urban) in New Delhi. MoHUA conducts the survey while the Quality Council of India
(QCI) is the Implementing Agency.Swachh Survekshan is the World’s largest cleanliness survey.
Swachhta Saarthi Fellowships launched by the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser
On March 1, 2021, the Office of the Principal Scientific Adviser to the Government of India (GoI) under
its “Waste to Wealth” Mission launched the “Swachhta Saarthi Fellowship”. These fellowships will
recognize students, community workers/self-help groups (SHGs), and municipal/sanitary workers who
are working as Swachhta Saarthis to tackle the challenge of waste management, scientifically and
sustainably through various initiatives.
Saras Aajeevika Mela 2021 at Noida Haat to Bring Rural Women SHGs Under One Platform
On 26th February 2021, Narendra Singh Tomar, Union Minister of Rural Development, inaugurated the
Saras Aajeevika Mela 2021 at Noida Haat to bring rural women Self-Help Groups(SHGs) under one
platform. The Saras Aajeevika Mela 2021 has been organised from 26th February 2021 to 14th March
2021.More than 300 SHGs and craftsmen from 27 states are participating in the mela organised by the
Ministry of Rural Development.
PM Modi inaugurated Syama Prasad Mookerjee Institute of Medical Sciences and Research at
IIT Kharagpur
PM Shri Narendra Modi has addressed the 66th Convocation of IIT Kharagpur through a video
conference and also inaugurated Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Institute of Medical Sciences and
Research at IIT Kharagpur.Syama Prasad Mookerjee Institute of Medical Sciences and Research is a
super specialty hospital that has been set up by the Indian Institute of Technology, Kharagpur with
support from the Minister of Education.
Harsh Vardhan launches “CSIR Floriculture Mission”

On March 4, 2021, Union Minister Dr Harsh Vardhan, Ministry of Science & Technology virtually
launched the CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research) Floriculture Mission from New Delhi.
It has been approved by the Government of India for implementation in 21 States and Union Territories
(UTs) of India.Under this, CSIR will combine latest technologies in the field of floriculture. Dr. Harsh
Vardhan also launched CSIR’s Societal Portal along with the Android App which has been developed by
CSIR Team with the help of MyGov Team.
India’s first forest healing centre inaugurated in Ranikhet, Uttarakhand

India’s first Forest Healing centre was inaugurated by noted environmentalist Joginder Bisht in the pine
dominated forest located at Ranikhet in Kalika ,Uttarakhand. It was developed by the Research Wing of

Uttarakhand Forest Department in an area of around 13 acres. The forest is inspired from the Japanese
technique of forest bathing (shinrin-yoku) and ancient Indian traditions. It is themed on ‘be silent, go
slow, think less and feel more’.
Odisha CM Naveen Patnaik inaugurated India’s first ‘World Skill Center’ in Bhubaneswar
On March 05, 2021, Odisha Chief Minister, Naveen Patnaik inaugurated the India’s first World Skill
Center(WSC), an advanced skill training institute at Mancheswar, Bhubaneswar at the budget of Rs
1342.2crore, under Odisha Skill Development Project with the assistance of Asian Development Bank
and ITE Education Services (ITEES), Singapore, the knowledge partner. ADB will share the cost for
developing the WSC centre.
Tribal Affairs Minister Arjun Munda Inaugurated First of its Kind “Tribes India GI Mahotsav” at
LBSNAA, Mussoorie
On 5th March 2021, Arjun Munda, Union Minister, Ministry of Tribal Affairs(MoTA) inaugurated the
“Tribes India GI Mahotsav” at Lal Bahadur Shastri National Academy of Administration(LBSNAA),
Mussoorie, Uttarakhand. This is the first of its kind exhibition featuring the GI Products from across
India. The Tribes India GI Mahotsav: Invaluable Treasures of Incredible India was organised by Tribal
Cooperative Marketing Federation of India(TRIFED), under MoTA in collaboration with LBSNAA,
Mussoorie and Ministry of Culture.
India Sets Up 1st of its kind ‘India Energy Office’ inaugurated in Moscow,Russia; Enhances
Cooperation in Energy Sector
On 2nd March, 2021 A 1st of its kind India Energy Office (IEO) was inaugurated by Tarun Kapoor,
Secretary, Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas at Russia’s landmark Federation Tower in Moscow.
India’s top 5 eminent oil companies – ONGC Videsh, IndianOil, GAIL, Oil India Ltd and Engineers India
Ltd will use this as a common platform to expand cross investment in the Energy Sector.Indian is
World’s third-largest oil consumer.
Note – Russia is India’s largest defence supplier.
PM Modi releases Manuscript with Comments by 21 scholars on “Shlokas” of Srimad

Bhagavadgita
On 9th March 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi released a Manuscript with commentaries by 21
scholars on ‘Shlokas’ of Srimad Bhagavadgita. The event also saw the presence of Lieutenant Governor
of Jammu & Kashmir, Manoj Sinha & Dr. Karan Singh, the Chairman Trustee of Dharmarth Trust, J&K.
PM prided on India’s culture to share its knowledge, thus Bhagavad Gita is translated into many Indian
& International Languages.
PM Inaugurated the Curtain Raiser Activities of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ (India@75)

On 12th March 2021, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the curtain raiser activities of ‘Azadi
Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ (India@75), the government’s initiative to mark 75 years of India’s Independence
at the event organised in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It will continue till 15 August, 2023. He also flagged off
the Padyatra (Freedom March) from Sabarmati Ashram, Ahmedabad to Dandi, Gujarat as a part of the
India@75 programme. This marks the 91st anniversary of Gandhi’s 1930 Dandi March.
Foreign Secretary Shringla inaugurates South Asia Group on Energy (SAGE) at RIS, New Delhi
On 10th March 2021, Indian Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringala inaugurated the South Asia
Group of Energy (SAGE) at the Research & Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) in New
Delhi. He highlighted various initiatives taken by India through its ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy. India is
the largest producer and consumer of energy in this region. As a 1st of kind move in Asia, India makes
cross border transport of hydrocarbons to Nepal through pipelines.

PM Modi launches the Kindle version of Swami Chidbhavanandaji’s Bhagavad Gita
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has launched the Kindle version of Swami Chidbhavanandaji’s Bhagavad
Gita through virtual mode.Swami Chidbhavanandaji is the founder of Sri Ramakrishna Tapovanam
Ashram at Thirupparaithurai, Tiruchirapalli, Tamil Nadu, who has authored 186 books and all genres of
literary composition.Tamil version of the Gita was published in 1951, followed by the English in 1965.
India’s 1st dedicated Express Cargo Terminal launched at Kempegowda International Airport
On 12th March, 2021 India’s 1st dedicated Express Cargo Terminal, exclusively for export and import of
international couriers was inaugurated in Kempegowda International Airport, Bangalore. It is
developed by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). The 2,00,000 sq.ft Export Cargo Terminal
will also accommodate international courier organisations like DHL Express & FedEx Express, under
the Common-User Express Terminal that will be operated by Express Industry Council of India (EICI).
Harsh Vardhan addresses the inaugural session of Techbharat 2021

On March 6, 2021, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Dr Harsh Vardhan addressed the
inaugural session of 2nd edition of TechBharat 2021, e-conclave of HealthTech & Edutech sectors. Laghu
Udyog Bharati and IMS Foundation have organized the 2nd edition of the conclave. In the Union Budget
2021-22, ₹2,23,846 crore budget outlay was allocated in health and well-being, “highest ever funding
for the health sector”.
UNDP Launched ‘Sahi Disha’ Campaign to Celebrate Women’s Livelihoods in Rural India
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) launched ‘Sahi Disha’ campaign to celebrate the
livelihoods and entrepreneurship of women in rural India. The campaign aims to highlight the issues
that affect the rural women’s opportunity to access jobs, livelihood and to establish enterprises to
become self-reliant. The Disha initiative is a 5-year partnership between UNDP and IKEA Foundation.
Power Minister R K Singh launches GRAM UJALA in Bihar; 1st Carbon Credits Programme in
India
On March 19, 2021, Union Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Power, R K Singh virtually
launched the ‘GRAM UJALA’ programme in Arrah, Bihar. Under the programme, 15 Million (1.5 Crore)
LEDs with 3 years of warranty will be given to rural customers on submission of working condition
incandescent bulbs. The scheme was unveiled by Convergence Energy Services Ltd (CESL), a wholly-
owned subsidiary of Energy Efficiency Services Ltd (EESL). This scheme will be financed entirely
through Carbon Credits making it the first such program in India.
Sadananda Gowda inaugurates 11th Edition of India Chem 2021 in New Delhi
Sadananda Gowda, Union Minister for Chemicals & Fertilizers inaugurated ‘India Chem 2021’ – the 11th
Biennial International Exhibition & Conference at New Delhi. It is organized by the Department of
Chemicals & Petrochemicals, Government of India & FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of
Commerce & Industry) to highlight the investment potential in Indian Chemicals & Petrochemicals
Industry.Theme – “India: Global Manufacturing Hub for Chemicals and Petrochemicals”. An investment
of INR 8 Lakh Crore is anticipated in the Indian Chemicals & Petrochemical industry by 2025.
Maldives inaugurates ‘Fiyavathi Home for Vulnerable Children’ funded by India

On March 24, 2021, Maldives Ministry of Gender, Family and Social Services inaugurated the renovated
‘Fiyavathi Home for Vulnerable Children’ in Hulhumale. A Cash grant of ~ 1.9 Million Maldivian Rufiyaa
(MVR) (~Indian Rupee(INR) 89 Lakh) was allocated for the completion of this project.The main aim of
the project is to create a conducive home environment for children to grow and develop.

NIO launches project for mapping genetic diversity in Indian ocean
Council of Scientific and Industrial Research-National Institute of Oceanography (CSIR-NIO), Goa, has
initiated a project for mapping the genetic diversity of organisms & the effect of micronutrients and
trace metals on them in the Indian Ocean supported by the CSIR, under one of its flagship projects
TraceBioMe. TraceBioMe envisages extensive sampling of water, sediments, planktons and various
organisms in different areas.
Tourism Ministry launches ‘MICE Roadshow – Meet in India’ & Inaugurates Chhatrasal
Convention Centre at Khajuraho
On 25th March 2021, Minister of State for Tourism and Culture (Independent Charge), Prahlad Singh
Patel, and Shivraj Singh Chouhan, Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh jointly inaugurated the ‘Chhatrasal
Convention Centre’ at Khajuraho, Madhya Pradesh. The Tourism Ministry also launched the “MICE
Roadshow Meet in India” at the Chhatrasal Convention Centre.
Harsh Vardhan Launches Tribal TB Initiative to achieve ‘TB Mukt Bharat’ by 2025
Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Dr Harsh Vardhan launched the ‘Tribal TB Initiative’ as a
step towards the goal of ‘TB Mukt Bharat’ by 2025. During the event, he also released a Guidance Note
on Joint Action Plan for Tuberculosis (TB) Elimination and a Special Edition of Tribal Ministry’s
Publication ‘ALEKH’ on TB. ALEKH is a quarterly e-newsletter of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs which
focuses on improving the health and wellbeing of the tribal communities. Harsh Vardhan highlighted
the linking of the NIKSHAY Portal of MoHFW & Swasthya Portal of the Ministry of Tribal Affairs to boost
data compilation on TB.
FESTIVALS
Jammu & Kashmir Celebrates “Hearth” Festival
Three-day long Maha Shivaratri festival, locally known as “Hearth” festival is celebrated across the
Union Territory of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K). Pandit Community across J&K celebrated the festival with
religious offerings “Watak Nath Pooja”. The festival marks the wedding of Lord Shiva with Goddess
Parvati. Biggest gathering of the festival was observed at Shankaracharya Temple, which is located near
the Dal lake in Srinagar.
UP Govt Celebrates 3 Day-long ‘Kalanamak Rice Festival’

On March 13, 2021, Uttar Pradesh (UP) Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath launched a three-day-long
‘Kalanamak rice festival’ in Siddharth Nagar.The festival was organized after the success of Strawberry
and Jaggery festivals. The rice festival event is being organised so as to promote, market and brand the
selected products as One District One Product (ODOP) under the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan’ and
‘Local for Vocal’ campaign.
PM Narendra Modi addresses the 4th Global Ayurveda Festival 2021

PM Narendra Modi virtually addressed the 4th Global Ayurveda Festival 2021 (GAF 2021), largest
Ayurvedic event held anywhere across the world. The event is held in a virtual format is organized by
the Centre for Innovation in Science and Social Action (CISSA) from March 12-19, 2021.The Festival
aims to popularize Ayurveda & Traditional forms of Medicine. FICCI is the industry partner. Chairman
of GAF 2021 – V Muraleedharan (Union Minister of State for External Affairs and Parliamentary Affairs).
UP government organises ‘banana festival’

The Uttar Pradesh(UP) government has organized a ‘Banana Festival’ at Buddha Park in Kushinagar
from March 22 to 25, 2021. The main goal of organizing this festival is to make Prime Minister Narendra
Modi’s plan for a self-reliant India.Banana made products from Kushinagar are included in One District
One Product (ODOP) scheme.

OTHER NATIONAL NEWS
World Customs Organisation recognizes CRCL, New Delhi as Regional Customs Laboratory for
Asia-Pacific Region
World Customs Organisation (WCO) has recognized the Central Revenues Control Laboratory (CRCL),
New Delhi, which functions under the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC) as a Regional
Customs Laboratory (RCL) of the WCO for the Asia-Pacific Region. On this behalf, a virtual signing
ceremony was held in which M Ajit Kumar, Chairman of CBIC & Mr Kunio Mikuriya, Secretary General of
WCO signed a MoU. With this recognition, CRCL will join a select group of Customs Laboratories in the
region like those in Japan & South Korea.
India’s Largest Floating Solar Power Plant at Telangana to be commissioned by May 2021
India’s Largest Floating Solar Power Plant of 100-MegaWatt (MW) capacity being constructed at
Ramagundam in Peddapalli district of Telangana is set to be commissioned by May-June, 2021. It will be
India’s largest floating solar plant in a single location as of now.
It is being developed by NTPC South (formerly known as National Thermal Power Corporation Limited)
at a cost of INR 423 Crore over the water surface of Sri Ram Sagar Project Reservoir.
India’s first dolphin research centre to start soon in Patna

India’s and Asia’s first National Dolphin Research Centre (NDRC) will come up on the bank of the
Ganges in the premises of Patna University in Bihar. 50% of the world’s river dolphin population are in
Bihar, Dolphin a highly endangered species under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 and
declared the National Aquatic Animal in 2009.
GST e-invoicing mandatory for Businesses with over INR 50 Crore Turnover from April 1, 2021
According to a notification by the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC), Government is set
to mandate Electronic-invoicing (e-invoicing) under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime for
business entities with a turnover of INR 50 Crore & more from April 1, 2021) for business-to-business
transactions. It is the 3rd Phase of mandatory e-invoicing under the GST regime. The 1st phase of e-
invoicing covered business entities with INR 500 Crore turnover & the 2nd phase covered entities with
INR 100 Crore.E-invoicing is mandatory under Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) Rules, 2017.
MTRC System Commissioned in Trains ; First of its Kind in Indian Railways

Alok Kansal, General Manager, Western Railway inaugurated the newly commissioned Mobile Train
Radio Communication (MTRC) system (also known as Global System for Mobile Communications –
Railway (GSM-R)) at Divisional Railway Manager’s office in Mumbai, Maharashtra. It is the 1st time that
MTRC has been commissioned in Indian Railways (IR). MTRC System is a TETRA (Terrestrial Trunked
Radio) based Digital technology.
India to replace TEQIP with MERITE project to improve Technical Education

Government of India is planning to replace the World Bank Assisted ‘Technical Education Quality
Improvement Programme (TEQIP)’ with a new programme called ‘Multidisciplinary Education and
Research Improvement in Technical Education (MERITE)’ project for improving the Technical
Education system in India.It is an initiative of the Ministry of Human Resource Department (now
Ministry of Education), Government of India assisted by the World Bank. MERITE Project aims to
improve technical education in India. It will be implemented in line with the National Education Policy
(NEP) 2020 recommendations.

EPFO Recommends 8.5% Interest Rate for PF Contributions for 2020-2021
On 4th March 2021, Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) announced to retain 8.5% annual
interest rates on provident fund(PF) deposits for the financial year 2020-21.
The decision was taken during the 228th meeting of Central Board of Trustees, EPF chaired by Santosh
Kumar Gangwar, Minister of Labour and Employment, held in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir. The
recommended interest rate was the result of the combined income from interest received from debt
investment as well as income realized from equity investment.
AIM,NITI Aayog tie-up with MathWorks to strengthen the Deep-tech startup ecosystem of India
Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, partnered with MathWorks-the developer of mathematical
computing software for scientists and engineers to strengthen the Deep-tech startup ecosystem of
India. Aiming to extend the industry tools and expertise to startups at AIM which is located across the
county and to use the technology and domain expertise of MathWorks to train the startups and
incubators in areas of technical computing, engineering design and AI based innovations.
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting collaborates with IIT Bombay to establish Center of
Excellence for ‘Games’
Union Minister of Information & Broadcasting, Prakash Javadekar, virtually addressed the “Khel Khel
Mein”, a pan Maharashtra toy/game designing competition. On the occasion he made an announcement
on the collaboration between the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and IIT Bombay to establish a
Center of Excellence in toys and gaming related areas. Indian Govt. under its Make in India initiative has
also launched India’s first toy manufacturing cluster in Karnataka.
China regains its position as India’s Largest Trading Partner

Despite the bloody border conflict in 2020, ban on hundreds of Chinese mobile apps and restrictions in
investment, China with $75.9 billion regained its spot as the Largest Trading Partner of India. China is
closely followed by the USA and UAE as the 2nd and 3rd largest Trading Partners of India. 51% of the
total imports from China were accounted for by the purchase of Heavy Machineries. It is to be noted
that in 2019 China was India’s largest trading partner with $85.5 billion trade and slipped to 2nd spot
only in 2020 with $77.7 billion trade.
India assists Drought hit Madagascar with 1000mt rice & 1 lakh HCQ tablets
On March 3rd, India sent 1,000 metric tonnes (MT) of rice along with 1 lakh Hydroxychloroquine
tablets in INS Jalashwa to the drought hit Madagascar. The Indian ocean region country was in severe
drought for the past 3 years and currently the situation has worsened. An Indian Navy Training team is
sent along with the consignment to train the Madagascar Special Forces. Earlier, In 2018, a consignment
of 1,000 metric tonnes of rice was delivered on-board an Indian naval vessel to Madagascar.In March
2020,India delivered 600 tonnes of rice as HADR assistance to Madagascar.
NSDC Collaborate with SahiPay to Promote Digital Financial Literacy among Youth
National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC) collaborated with SahiPay, an Android-based
integrated platform developed by Manipal Business Solutions (MBS) to promote nano-
entrepreneurship amongst youth in the financial services sector.As a part of collaboration, candidates
will be provided access to free digital skilling on ‘Online Entrepreneurship Program’ through NSDC’s
eSkill India portal.
Merger of Rajya Sabha TV & Lok SabhaTV; Replaced by Sansad TV

A committee headed by former Prasar Bharati Chairman Surya Prakash was formed to merging of Lok
Sabha TV and Rajya Sabha TV and the same has been replaced by the single banner, Sansad TV effective
from March 2021. This is an attempt to cover beyond the proceedings of the two houses and feature the

functions of parliament and Parliamentarians when the houses are not in session. Ravi Capoor Retired
IAS officer of 1986 batch has been appointed as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sansad TV.
BRO builds 200ft ‘The Bridge of Compassion’ across Rishiganga river in Uttarakhand
The Border Road Organisation (BRO) has built a 200 feet bridge across Rishiganga river, connecting 13
villages in Uttarakhand. The bridge was built by BRO in a record 26 days, as a replacement to the 90-
metre Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) bridge that was washed away in the February 7 flash floods in
Rishiganga river. The flash flood had also washed away the Rishganga Hydroelectric Project, leading to
200 workers getting trapped. As a tribute to the sacrifice of the Power plant workers, the bridge was
named as “The Bridge of Compassion”.
President Laid Foundation Stone for Conservation Works at Singorgarh Fort in MP

On 7th March 2021, Ram Nath Kovind, President of India, laid the foundation stone for the conservation
works at the Singorgarh fort and addressed the State level (Janjatiya Sammelan) Tribal conference in
Singrampur village of Damoh district, Madhya Pradesh(MP).Singorgarh fort was a magnificent fort and
a residence of Rajgond rulers of Central India. He also inaugurated the new Jabalpur circle of
Archaeological Survey of India(ASI).
Google honours ‘India’s Satellite Man’ Udupi Ramachandra Rao with doodle on his birth
anniversary
On March 10, 2021 Google has honoured ‘India’s Satellite Man’ Udupi Ramachandra Rao with doodle on
his 89th birth anniversary, who was an Indian space scientist and chairman of the Indian Space
Research Organisation (ISRO) between 1984-94, supervised the 1975 launch of India’s first satellite
“Aryabhata.”He was born in Karnataka in 1932. He was awarded the Padma Bhushan in 1976 and
Padma Vibhushan in 2017.
Railway Minister Piyush Goyal Flagged off the 3000 HP Cape Gauge Locomotive for export to
Mozambique; Developed by BLW
On March 10, 2021, Union Minister of Railways, Piyush Goyal Virtually flagged off the two 3000 Horse
Power (HP) Cape Gauge Locomotive for export to Mozambique. It was indigenously developed by
Banaras Locomotive Works (BLW), Varanasi.This is BLW’s first AC-AC traction system3000 HP, Cape
Gauge locomotive. India Planned to become a net-zero Railway & power our entire electricity
requirements by renewable energy by 2030.
India’s first ‘Transgender Community Desk’ opens in Telangana’s Gachibowli

India’s 1st ‘Transgender Community Desk’ launched in Gachibowli Police Station, Hyderabad, Telangana
by Cyberabad Police chief VC Sajjanar. This desk is the first-of-its-kind gender-inclusive community
policing initiative in the country.It is the world’s first-ever help desk for the transgender community
and it will be managed by a Police Liaison Officer and a member of the transgender community who is
designated as a community coordinator.
New passenger train service between Dhaka and New Jalpaiguri set to start from 26th March
A new passenger train service between Dhaka, Bangladesh and New Jalpaiguri, West Bengal, India is set
to start from the 26th of March 2021 marking the 50th Anniversary of the liberation of Bangladesh. The
direct train between Dhaka and New Jalpaiguri will run through the Chilahati-Haldibari cross-border
rail route. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina will flag off
the new passenger train on the occasion of the Birth Centenary Celebration of Bangabandhu Sheikh
Mujib and 50 years of Liberation of Bangladesh.

Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal-India’s 1st Centralized AC Terminal set to become operational in
Bengaluru
‘Sir M Visvesvaraya Terminal’ – India’s 1st Centralized Air-Conditioned Railway Terminal at
Baiyappanahalli in Bengaluru, Karnataka is set to become operational soon.It is being developed by the
Indian Railways at a cost INR 314 Crore and has been named after one of India’s 1st Civil Engineers,
Bharat Ratna Sir M Visvesvaraya.The terminal will decongest the KSR Bengaluru & Yesvantpur stations.
Indian Railways Integrated Rail Madad Helpline ‘139’

Indian Railways has integrated all railway helplines into a single number ‘139’, which is now the main
‘Rail Madad’ Helpline, for quick grievance redressal and enquiry mechanism during train journeys for
passengers.
Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka & Maharashtra lead in usage of Drip Irrigation : Ministry of
Agriculture
According to date taken between 2005-06 to 2020-21 (as on February 3, 2021) presented by the
Ministry of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoAFW) to Lok Sabha, 4 states namely Sikkim, Andhra
Pradesh, Karnataka & Maharashtra have more than half of the net cultivated farmlands under micro-
irrigation in India.The data also shows that 27 States (including UTs) have less than 30% micro-
irrigation system out of which 23 have fewer than 15% micro-irrigation.
MG Motor partners with IIT Delhi for Research in Electric, Connected & Autonomous Vehicles
On 15th March, 2021 MG Motor India partnered with Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Delhi’s Centre
for Automotive Research and Tribology (CART) for enhanced research in deployment of Electric,
Connected & Autonomous Vehicles in India’s Urban landscape.
This partnership for research in CASE mobility (Connected – Autonomous – Shared – Electric) was
made through IIT-Delhi’s Industrial Interface Organisation, Foundation for Innovation and Technology
Transfer (FITT). MG Motors launched India’s 1st autonomous Level 1 premium SUV – Gloster.
CSIR-NIO to Launch 90-day Cruise Missile

A 30-member team of Scientists & Researchers from CSIR-NIO (National Institute of Oceanography) will
spend 90 days on the research vessel Sindhu Sadhana travelling over 10, 000 nautical miles in the
Indian Ocean. The aim of the mission is to study about the internal working of the body of the ocean at a
cellular level.
Indian Railways connects 2 ends of arch of ‘Chenab Bridge’ – World’s Highest Railway Bridge
Indian Railway has successfully connected the 2 ends of the main arch of ‘Chenab Bridge’ – World’s
Highest Railway Bridge. It is being built by Konkan Railway Corporation Ltd (KRCL) at a cost of INR 12,
000 Crores.The bridge is 1.315 Kms long and is to be completed by the end of 2021.It is being
constructed over the River Chenab which is 35 Metres higher than the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.
IOCL, Phinergy Ltd form JV to manufacture Metal-Air Batteries;2 Indian firms sign LoI
On March 17, 2021, An ‘Equal’ Joint Venture (JV) called ‘IOC Phinergy Private Limited’ of Indian Oil
Corporation Limited (IOCL) & Israeli firm ‘Phinergy ltd’ was formalised to manufacture Ultra-
Lightweight Metal-air Batteries for Electric Vehicles (EVs) using Aluminium Air Batteries (Al-Air)
technology & to boost the e-mobility. Under the JV, both entities will also undertake research and
development, assembly, manufacturing & sale of aluminium-air batteries for the Indian market.
India’s First Elevated Urban Expressway to be completed by 2022

According to a recent inspection by Minister for Road Transport & Highways Nitin Jairam Gadkari to
India’s First Grade Separated Urban Expressway ‘Dwarka Expressway’ ,it will be expected to complete

before 2022 Independence Day i.e August 15.The total length of the expressway is 29 km, of which 18.9
km falls in Haryana and the remaining 10.1 km is in Delhi. It connects Dwarka in Delhi to Gurugram,
Haryana has been constructed under the Bharatmala Project at a price of ₹8,662 crores.
Govt Considers To Set Up Ayush Export Promotion Council To Boost Global Trade
Piyush Goyal, Minister of Commerce and Industry informed that the AYUSH Ministry consulting with
the stakeholders to set up an AYUSH export promotion Council(EPC) and the procedure to set up the
council are being taken. Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry(FICCI) will coordinate
with the Department of Commerce and the Indian Industry members interested in forming a corpus for
the EPC.
IBBI & British High Commission released an Ethical Handbook for Ips
On March 19, 2021, in New Delhi, the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Board of India (IBBI) in association
with the British High Commission has prepared and released a publication titled “Handbook on Ethics
for Insolvency Professionals: Ethical and Regulatory Framework”, a practical guide for insolvency
professionals for discharging their duties ethically. Dr. Navrang Saini, Whole Time Member, IBBI
released the handbook.
NITI Aayog Submits 1st List of about 12 PSUs for Privatisation

Prime Minister, Narendra Modi headed Think Tank, NITI Aayog had submitted the 1st list of 12 Public
Sector Undertaking’s(PSUs) for Privatisation. The list contains both Banks as well as Insurance
Companies. Now, the list will be considered by the Department of Investment and Public Asset
Management (DIPAM), and the Core Group of Secretaries on Divestment (CGD), headed by the cabinet
secretary (Current Cabinet Secretary is Rajiv Gauba).
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh Received Interim Dividend Cheque Of Rs. 92.56 Crore From
DPSU – MDL
On 3rd March 2021, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh received the interim dividend cheque of Rs.95.56
crore from the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (formerly called Mazagon Dock Limited – MDL), a
Defence Public Sector Undertaking(DPSU) in New Delhi. With this, MDL has paid a total dividend of
Rs.138.73 crore to the Government during FY2020-21 including a final dividend of Rs. 46.17 crore for
FY2019-20.
AAI Agreed To Assist Bangladesh Aviation Regulator To Enhance Infrastructure

On 15th March 2021, The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has agreed to assist the Civil Aviation
Authority of Bangladesh (CAAB), the aviation regulator of Bangladesh, to enhance its capacity in terms
of infrastructure and skilled manpower and to explore the possible cooperation areas, the high-level
delegations of CAAB visited AAI from 7th to 11th March 2021. India is currently celebrating “Swarnim
Vijay Varsh”, the golden jubilee year marking the 1971 war victory over Pakistan that led to the creation
of Bangladesh.
PM Modi launches ‘Jal Shakti Abhiyan:Catch the Rain’; MoA for Ken Betwa Link Project
On the Occasion of World Water Day (March 22, 2021), Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi
launched/witnessed two key events. Launch of ‘Jal Shakti Abhiyan:Catch the Rain’ campaign to
undertake water conservation at grass-root level through people’s participation.
PM witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) between the Union Minister of Jal
Shakti & the Chief Ministers of Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh for implementation of the Ken Betwa
Link Project (KBLP). It is the 1st project under the National Perspective Plan for interlinking of rivers.

Labour & Employment Minister, Santosh Kumar Gangwar Released ‘Compendium on CPI for
Industrial Workers’
On 18th March 2021, Santosh Kumar Gangwar, Minister of State (Independent Charge), Ministry of
Labour and Employment released Compendium on Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers(CPI-
IW) (Volume I-IV, 1945 to 2020). This Compendium is a first of its kind publication. It is Compiled by
Labour Bureau, Ministry of Labour and Employment. It was released while Labour Bureau is celebrating
the centenary year. The quantum of information on CPI-IW at one place in the form of this compendium
will serve as a reference for researchers, policy makers, students, etc. interested in understanding price
indices and inflation trends.
Bihar Becomes 1st State in India to implement ‘Ethanol Production Promotion Policy 2021’
Bihar Cabinet has approved the state’s own Ethanol policy called ‘Ethanol Production Promotion Policy,
2021’. The approval has made Bihar as the 1st State in India to implement Ethanol Promotion Policy
under the National Policy of Biofuels, 2018. The policy allows Bihar to directly make ethanol from
Maize, Molasses, broken rice & rotten grains. At present, bioethanol blending in petrol in India stands at
6.2%, India has set a target of 20% Bioethanol blending of petrol by 2025 (the deadline has been moved
from 2030 to 2025).
UNOPS & Denmark partners to provide Technical Support for Jal Jeevan Mission in UP
On 22nd March 2021, the World Water Day, Government of Denmark and the United Nations Office for
Project Services (UNOPS) entered into a partnership to provide strategic technical support for
implementing Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) in Uttar Pradesh.11 water-scarce districts of Bundelkhand &
Vindhya regions of Uttar Pradesh will be assisted with scalable delivery models by UNOPS. This comes
as an outcome of Indo-Danish bilateral cooperation on achieving JJM’s goals.
India plans to Conduct Airborne Radar Survey in Himalayan Glaciers

Indian govt. is planning to conduct an airborne radar survey on a pilot basis in the Himalayan region to
estimate the thickness of Glaciers at Lahaul-Spiti basin of Himachal Pradesh. The pilot project will then
be extended to conduct on Indus, Ganga & Brahmaputra sub-basins. Currently, India is ranked as the
7th Most Vulnerable Country in the Global Climate Risk Index 2021. National Centre for Polar & Ocean
Research (NCPOR), Ministry of Earth Science used Ground Penetration Radar (GPR) to assess the depth
of Glacier.
Manipur emerged as Champion State for Van Dhan Vikas Yojana

With active cooperation from the state government of Manipur, Van Dhan Vikas Yojana has been
successfully implemented, turning Manipur into the Champion State for the scheme. Van Dhan Yojana
was launched in October 2019 in Manipur, with the successful establishment of 100 Van Dhan Vikas
Kendras in the state. This constitutes 1500 self-help groups for marketing & providing value-addition to
the tribal, minor forest produces.
India, US agree to re-establish ‘India-US Home Security Dialogue’

India & US have agreed to re-establish the ‘India-US Home Security Dialogue’ to address Cybersecurity,
emerging technology & addressing Violent Extremism. It will take place between India’s Home Ministry
& U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS). The practice of Homeland Security Dialogue between
the two countries was discontinued by Donald Trump, the Former President of the USA. It was launched
by Barack Obama, Former USA President in 2010 as the mechanism to a sequel to signing of the India-
US Counter-Terrorism initiative.

Govt. spends Rs. 11.82 cr for Implementing National Digital Health Mission in 6 UTs
Central Govt. has spent Rs. 11.82 crores for Implementing the National Digital Health Mission (NDHM)
since its roll out in 15th August 2020 under pilot basis in 6 Union Territories– Chandigarh, Ladakh,
Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Puducherry, Andaman & Nicobar Islands and
Lakshadweep with a total of 9.97 lakhs beneficiaries. National Health Authority (NHA) is the
implementing agency of NDHM. NDHM digitizes Medical identity documents of people, thereby creating
a National Digital Health Ecosystem which can be used by various organisations including private
players.
Supreme Court rules out Extension of 6-month Moratorium, waives Compound Interest
On March 23, 2021, Supreme Court (SC) Bench of Justices Ashok Bhushan, R Subhash Reddy & MR Shah
rejected the further extension of six months’ period (March 1,2020 to August 31,2020) of the loan
moratorium scheme issued by the Reserve Bank of India due to the COVID 19 Pandemic against a
petition filed by the traders and corporate bodies/ big borrowers.
• SC also added that no Interest on Interest (Compound Interest) will be charged on borrowers
during the Moratorium period irrespective of the Loan Amount and any amount collected will
be refunded.
• The Supreme Court has also refused to waive the entire interest on the loans, which government
requires a major amount of Rs 6 lakh crore.
Andaman & Nicobar attains 100% Functional Household Tap Connection under Jal Jeevan
Mission
On World Water Day, 22nd March 2021, Lt. Governor of Andaman & Nicobar, Admiral D K Joshi,
announced the Union territory (UT) as 100% Functional Household Tap Connection (FHTC) under Jal
Jeevan Mission (JJM). With this Andaman & Nicobar becomes India’s 1st UT and the 3rd state/UT to
achieve the target (only after Goa & Telangana). Target of JJM-Tap Water connection to all rural
households by 2024.
Supreme Court refuses to stay sale of New Set of ‘Electoral Bonds’

On March 26, 2021, A Supreme Court bench led by Chief Justice of India Sharad A. Bobde refused to stay
the sale of a new set of electoral bonds, the new set of electoral bonds are scheduled to come out for
sale between April 1-10, 2021.NGO Association for Democratic Reforms had filed a petition seeking
‘Stay’ on the new set of Electoral Bonds due to upcoming elections in Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Assam,
Pondicherry & West Bengal.
India Initiates 3rd phase of Indian Beamline Project in Japan

On March 23, 2021 the 3rd phase of the Indian beamline project was initiated in Japan with special
focus on research based on Industrial Applications. In this phase Indian researchers will be trained with
Advanced X-ray techniques used in Material research. It is set up under India-Japan Scientific and
Technological Cooperation. This Phase will increase the number of young researchers from India to be
trained in advanced X-ray techniques of material research.
CBSE announces Competency based Assessment Framework for Classes 6 to 10

Union Education Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal Nishank, launched a new assessment framework for
Central Board of Secondary Education (CBSE) students of Class 6 to 10. This framework assesses
students based on their competencies to solve day-to-day problems.
The Framework was designed by British Council along with AlphaPlus as the UK knowledge partner as
per the recommendations in the National Education Policy – 2020.

Bihar set to become India’s 1st State to have 2 Green Energy Efficient Towns
Bihar is set to become India’s 1st State to have 2 Green Energy Efficient towns, the 2 towns are Rajgir &
BodhGaya. They will start getting Solar Energy through 1st of its kind Renewable energy project from
2023.The green energy supply required for running the towns will be developed and supplied by the
Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI).
HMEL became the first Indian buyer of Guyanese oil

In March 2020, HPCL-Mittal Energy Limited (HMEL) a joint venture between state-run Hindustan
Petroleum Corp and steel tycoon L.N. Mittal, became India’s first company to buy cargo from the oil
producers of Guyana.HMEL bought the 1-million-barrel cargo of Guyana’s Liza light sweet crude which
had started its sail on March 2 on Marshall Islands-flagged tanker, Sea Garnet and it is set to arrive
around April 8 to India’s Mundra port(Gujarat).
ICM, Think Tank of MEA and IOM to collaborate for joint Study on Migration
On 23rd March 2021, The India Centre for Migration (ICM), a research think tank of the Ministry of
External Affairs (MEA), entered into collaboration with International Organisation for Migration (IOM)
for the joint study on “Strengthening data-informed and migrant-centred migration management
frameworks in India”.The project was launched by Sanjay Bhattacharyya, Secretary (CPV & OIA) and
Chairman of ICM.
Kempegowda Airport becomes 1st in South India to have operational Parallel runways
Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport became the 1st Airport in South India to have a fully
operational parallel runway. This comes as a result of the Airports northern runway coming to
operation which was closed for renovation and upgrades in June 2020.
While the Southern runway is equipped with a CAT III B System that provides precision landing facility
by improving runway visibility.
GOVT SCHEMES
Uttarakhand CM launches ‘Gharoki Paachan, Chelik Naam’ scheme in Nainital
Uttarakhand Chief Minister Trivendra Singh Rawat launched ‘Gharoki Paachan, Chelik Naam’ scheme
(Daughter’s name is a home’s identity) programme. Initially the scheme has been launched in Nainital
and later is set to be extended to the entire Uttarakhand.
He also launched several development schemes worth INR 42 Crore in Nainital Uttarakhand.
Haryana CM announces 4 Welfare Schemes on the 644th Birth Anniversary of Guru Ravidas
During the 644th Birth anniversary celebration of Guru Ravidas, Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal
Khattar announced 4 welfare schemes for the state. The Schemes are aimed at satisfying the needs of
the people under Below Poverty line (BPL). He also highlighted the state’s initiatives to increase income
of BPL families by at least Rs. 8000 to Rs. 9000/month.
Guru Ravidas was a Mystic Poet of the Bhakti Movement and also the founder of Ravidassia religion.
All Major Programmes of WCD Ministry brought under 3 Umbrella Schemes

Ministry of Women & Child Development (WCD) has classified all its major programmes under 3
umbrella schemes namely – Mission Poshan 2.0 (Prime Minister’s Overarching Scheme for Holistic
Nutrition), Mission Vatsalya & Mission Shakti for the sake of better Implementation of the schemes &
programmes on the motive to promote inter-ministerial & inter-sectoral convergence for creating
gender equitable & child centred legislation, policies & programmes.

Labor Minister Launches Convergence of ESI Scheme with Ayushman Bharat PM-JAY in 4 States
On March 10, 2021, Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Labor & Employment Santosh Gangwar
launched the convergence of the ESI (Employees State Insurance) Scheme with Ayushman Bharat PM-
JAY (Pradhan Mantri-Jan Arogya Yojana) in 113 districts of 4 States Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Madhya
Pradesh & Maharashtra.
Maharashtra Launched Mahasamruddhi Mahila Sashaktikaran Scheme To Empower Rural

Women
Government of Maharashtra launched the “Maha Samruddhi Mahila Sashaktikaran scheme” to empower
the women in rural areas. The scheme commenced on 8th March 2021, the International women’s Day
2021.It aims to promote the listing of wife’s name along with husbands’ names on the 7/12 extract and
to promote the inclusion of wife’s name on house property documents. Maharashtra State Rural
Development department will be the nodal body for the implementation of the Maha Samruddhi Mahila
Sashaktikaran Yojana.
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports extends Khelo India Scheme till 2025-26
Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports has decided to extend the Khelo India scheme from 2021-22 to 2025-
26. The Ministry has furnished an Expenditure Finance Committee (EFC) memorandum to the Ministry
of Finance for the extension of the scheme. INR 8750 Crore has been estimated as financial implication
of the new Khelo India Scheme in the EFC Memorandum. An amount of INR 657.71 Crore was allocated
in the Budget Estimate (B.E.) for the year 2021-22 under the Khelo India Scheme.
INTERNATIONAL AFFAIRS
Madagascar President inaugurated Advanced Digital Cobalt Therapy Machine Bhabhatron-II
donated by India
President of Madagascar, Andry Rajoelina, inaugurated advanced digital cobalt therapy machine
“Bhabhatron-II” for cancer treatment at the Joseph Ravoahangy Andrianavalona Hospital (HJRA) in
Antananarivo in the presence of India’s Ambassador to Madagascar Abhay Kumar Bhabhatron-II is
donated by India to Madagascar and developed by Bhabha Atomic Research Centre (BARC).This
donation also caters to the Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi’s vision of SAGAR i.e. Security and
Growth for All in the Indian Ocean Region.
Global energy-related CO2 emissions fell by 5.8% in 2020 due to Pandemic : IEA
According to data released by the International Energy Agency (IEA), Global energy-related CO2
emissions declined by 5.8% or 2 Billion Tonnes in 2020 due to the Pandemic. It is the largest annual
percentage decline since World War II. More than 50% of the total global drop in CO2 emissions in 2020
was due to the decline in CO2 emissions from oil use in the Transport & aviation sectors. The Primary
energy demand also fell by nearly 4% in 2020.
Sri Lanka approves Proposal to develop WCT of Colombo Port with Assistance from India &
Japan
On March 1, 2021, Sri Lankan Cabinet approved a Build, Operate and Transfer (BOT) proposal for
developing the West Container Terminal (WCT) of Colombo South Port with parties nominated by
Indian & Japanese Government. The port will be developed in collaboration with the Sri Lanka Ports
Authority. Indian High Commission has nominated Adani Ports and Special Economic Zone Ltd (APSEZ
Consortium) while the Japanese government is yet to nominate a party. India & Japan will have 85%
stake in the WCT.

UNGA adopts India’s Resolution to mark 2023 as ‘International Year of Millets’
On March 3, 2021, the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted a resolution sponsored by
India to mark 2023 as ‘International Year of Millets’. The resolution was initiated by India along with
Bangladesh, Kenya, Nepal, Nigeria, Russia & Senegal.The resolution titled ‘International Year of Millets
2023’ was supported by over 70 nations. The resolution called for the Food and Agriculture
Organisation (FAO) of the United Nations to implement the International Year of Millets in 2023.
Note:- India celebrated National Year of Millets in 2018.
World’s 1st Platypus Sanctuary to come up at Australia

Australia is building the World’s 1st Sanctuary for ‘Platypus’, an egg laying mammal is a semi-aquatic
creature that generally lives in small streams & slow-moving rivers at cool temperature. Platypus is
considered to be a protected species in Australia, whose population was severely affected in 2019-20
Australia bushfires. The sanctuary is built to promote its breeding & rehabilitation, consisting of mostly
ponds & burrows housing up to 65 platypuses is planned to be built by 2022.
Pakistan to remain in FATF’s ‘greylist’ till June, 2021

Financial Action Task Force (FATF), the global money laundering & terrorist financing watchdog
(headquarters in Paris, France) has retained Pakistan on its ‘grey list’ (also called as ‘Increased
monitoring group’) till June, 2021 as Pakistan had failed to implement the 27-point action plan
mandated by FATF. It means that Pakistan will have difficulties getting financial aid from International
Monetary Fund (IMF), World Bank, Asian Development Bank (ADB) & European Union.
Reliance Power forms JV with Jera for 745 MW project in Bangladesh

On March 4, 2021, a joint venture (JV) was formed between Reliance Power and Japan-headquartered
Jera Co. Inc to build, own, and operate a 745-MW (net output: 718 MW) gas-fired power generation
project in Meghnaghat near Dhaka, Bangladesh. As a part of this project, Reliance Power’s wholly-
owned subsidiary Samalkot Power has received the approval from the Export Import Bank of the
United States (US) to sell one module of equipment to Samsung C&T Corporation of South Korea for Rs
1,540 crore.
India’s Fourth Partner Energy sets up Joint Venture in Indonesia

Indian company, Fourth Partner Energy (4PEL) entered into a partnership with Indonesian Energy
major, Indika Energy to set up a joint venture company, “Empat Mitra Indika Tenaga Surya (EMITS)”.
EMITS will establish integrated solar, storage, & Electric Vehicles (EV) charging projects in
Indonesia.Joint Venture in EMITS – 51% stake held by Indika Energy & 49% by 4PEL.Currently, 4PEL is
building solar parks in Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu with an operational portfolio of
400MW.
EAM Dr. S. Jaishankar inaugurates New Cultural Centre of High Commission of India in Dhaka,
Bangladesh
On 4th March 2021, Dr. S Jaishankar, Union Minister, Ministry of External Affairs inaugurated the new
cultural centre of the High Commission of India in old India House Building, Dhaka, Bangladesh. This is
the 2nd culture centre for the high commission of India after the Dhanmondi centre at the Indira Gandhi
Cultural Centre in Dhaka. He inaugurated the Cultural Centre in Dhaka during his visit to Bangladesh on
4th March 2021 at the invitation of his counterpart Dr. AK Abdul Momen.
Ghana becomes 1st Country to receive COVAX vaccines through UN Initiative

6,00,000 doses of the AstraZeneca vaccine made by the Serum Institute of India, were offered to Ghana
under the vaccine deployment initiative of the United Nations (UN), making it the 1st country in the
world to receive COVAX vaccines. Already 92 countries in the lower- & middle-income group have

signed to the UN backed COVAX programme. COVAX is planning to distribute 2 billion doses of COVID-
19 vaccines by 2021.
In a World-first Trial, Japan-Australia Venture starts producing Hydrogen from Brown Coal
In a World-first trial, a Japan-Australia venture has started to produce Hydrogen from Brown Coal. The
production is taking place at the Hydrogen Energy Supply Chain (HESC) coal-to-hydrogen plant in
Brown Coal Reserves in the state of Victoria, Australia.The project is worth 500 Million Australian
Dollars (USD 390 Million). HESC is run by Kawasaki Heavy Industries (Japan).
Italy joins ISA under the amended ISA Framework Agreement

On March 17, 2021, Italy joined the International Solar Alliance (ISA) (also known as International
Agency for Solar Policy and Application (IASPA)) after signing the amended ISA Framework Agreement.
Vincenzo de Luca, Ambassador of Italy to India signed the Italian membership to the ISA.The new ISA
Framework Agreement came into force on January 8, 2021. The signed copies of the agreement were
received by an additional secretary (ER) as representative of MEA. MEA is the depositary of the ISA
Framework Agreement.
Singapore is Building World’s Largest Floating Solar Farms

Singapore, Asia’s biggest per capita carbon dioxide emitter, is building one of the world’s largest
floating solar farms, as part of its plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The solar power plant
expands from the coast into the Johor Strait that separates Singapore from Malaysia.This project is
being built by Sembcorp Industries.
MoS Communications, Shri Sanjay Dhotre Represented India at the WSIS Forum 2021
On March 22, 2021, Minister of State(MOS) for Communications, Shri Sanjay Dhotre represented India
at the virtual ‘World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS) Forum 2021’which is one of the world’s
largest annual gatherings of the ‘ICT for development’ communities. WSIS Forum is co-organized by
International Telecommunications Union (ITU), the (UNESCO), UNCTAD and UNDP in close
collaboration with all WSIS Action Line Facilitators.
Stad Ship Tunnel-World’s 1st Ship Tunnel to be constructed at Norway

The World’s 1st Ship Tunnel, ‘Stad Ship Tunnel’ is to be constructed in Norway. The tunnel will run
underneath the mountains in Norway’s Stadhavet peninsula and will help ships to cross the Stadhavet
sea.It will be constructed by Norwegian Coastal Administration.The works on the bridge will commence
in 2022 and are expected to get completed by 2025-26.
VISITS
INDIAN VISIT
Overview of Kuwait Foreign Minister’s 2-day visit to India
Kuwait’s Foreign Minister Ahmed Nasser Al-Mohammad Al-Sabah paid a 2-day visit to India from March
17-18, 2021.During the visit, Mohammad Al-Sabah had a meeting with India’s EAM S. Jaishankar during
which they discussed Bilateral Cooperation and regional developments. Kuwait’s Foreign Minister
thanked India for dispatching a consignment of Indian-made COVID-19 vaccines (under Vaccine Maitri
Initiative) for fighting against Coronavirus.
• The two sides released a Joint Statement on the establishment of a Joint Ministerial Commission
at the level of Foreign Ministers.
• Both sides agreed to strengthen ties in sectors like energy, trade, healthcare, defence and
security, science & technology, IT, Cybersecurity, culture, education and tourism.

Afghan Foreign Minister Mohammad Haneef Atmar Visited India on March 22 to 23, 2021
H.E. Mohammad Haneef Atmar, Foreign Minister of the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan is on a 2-day
visit to India from March 22 & 23, 2021.During the visit, External Affairs Minister(EAM), S. Jaishankar &
Mohammad Haneef Atmar chaired the Strategic Partnership Council (SPC), under the aegis of the India
– Afghanistan Strategic Partnership Agreement.This was Mohammad Haneef Atmar’s 1st visit to India
after becoming Foreign Affairs Minister of Afghanistan.
Overview of Minister of National Defence, South Korea, Suh Wook’s 3-day visit to India
South Korea’s (officially known as Republic of Korea) Minister of National Defence, Suh Wook visited
India from March 25-27, 2021. The main objective of the visit is to boost Bilateral Defence and Military
Cooperation.During the visit, Suh Wook held meetings with Defence Minister, Rajnath Singh; National
Security Advisor, Ajit Doval.Suh Wook & Rajnath Singh jointly inaugurated India’s First Indo-Korean
Friendship Park at Delhi Cantonment.
FOREIGN VISIT
IAF Chief participated in Sri Lankan Air Force’s 70th anniversary celebrations along with IAF
jets
Indian Air Force Chief Marshal Rakesh Kumar Singh Bhadauria was on a two day visit to Sri Lanka from
March 3-5, 2021 on an invitation from the Commander of the Sri Lankan Air Force (SLAF), Air Marshal
Sudarshana Pathirana. He was invited to attend the inaugural ceremony of 70th-anniversary
celebrations of the SLAF consisting of an air show at Galle Face, Colombo. The visit was to strengthen
Indo-Sri Lankan bilateral ties.
First-Ever Visit of INS to Historic Port City of Mongla, Bangladesh

Indian Naval Ships(INS) Sumedha, an indigenously built Offshore Patrol vessel and INS Kulish, an
indigenously built guided missile corvette made a port call at the historic port city of Mongla,
Bangladesh from 8th to 10th March 2021.This is the first-ever visit of INS to Mongla to pay homage to
the Bangladeshi and Indian soldiers and citizens who lost their lives during the 1971 liberation war.
Overview of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2-day visit to Bangladesh

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Bangladesh from March 26-27, 2021 at the invitation of
Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. During the meeting, PM Narendra Modi participated in major
events such as Golden Jubilee Celebrations of the Independence of Bangladesh. PM Modi was the Guest
of Honour at the event.‘Mujib Barsho’ – Celebrations of Birth Centenary of the Father of Bangladesh –
Bangabandhu ‘Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’. India conferred the Gandhi Peace Prize for the year 2020 on
Sheikh Mujibur Rahman for his contribution towards the social, economic and political transformation
of Bangladesh through non-violent and other Gandhian methods. Both leaders launched a new
passenger train ‘Mitali Express’ connecting Dhaka- New Jalpaiguri (West Bengal).
BANKING & FINANCE

RBI IN NEWS
Fino Payments Bank Ltd Gets the Status of Scheduled Commercial Bank: RBI
According to RBI, Fino payment bank can improve its banking position in the treasury and participation
in Liquidity Adjustment Facility (LAF) window.Therefore Reserve Bank of India(RBI) included the Fino
Payment Bank in the Second Schedule to the RBI Act, 1934. With this inclusion, Fino Payments bank
gets the status of scheduled commercial bank.

Rupee Co-operative Bank Ltd. Gets 3 Month Banking License Extension from RBI
Reserve Bank of India(RBI) extended banking license to Rupee Co-operative Bank Ltd., Pune,
Maharashtra for 3 months (i.e.) till May 31, 2021. The co-operative bank was placed under the
directions of RBI from the close of business on February 22, 2013.In previous, the validity of the
direction was extended till February 28, 2021.
In a first, RBI announces Operation Twist cum OMO: March 2021

In a first, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) is all set to conduct the simultaneous purchase and sale of
Government securities (GS) under Open Market Operations (OMO) for an aggregate amount of Rs
20,000 crore under purchase and Rs 15,000 crore under sale on March 10, 2021. This makes it a
combination of Operation Twist of Rs 15,000 crore and OMO of Rs 5000 crore.The bids for the same will
be accepted by RBI in electronic format through its Core Banking Solution (E-Kuber).
RBI removed LIC – Owned IDBI Bank from its PCA Framework after 4 Years
On March 10, 2021, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) removed LIC – owned Industrial Development
Bank of India (IDBI) from its enhanced regulatory supervision, the Prompt Corrective Action (PCA)
framework, after almost 4 years, on improved financial performance and credit profile. RBI has decided
to conduct a review on IDBI Bank by the Board for Financial Supervision(BFS) on February 18, 2021.
RBI insisted all banks implement the image-based CTS by September 30

On March 15, 2021, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) the apex monetary institution asked all the banks in
India to implement the image-based Cheque Truncation System (CTS) under respective grids in all its
branches by September 30, 2021, to faster the settlement of cheques resulting in better customer
service. On February 5, 2021, RBI had announced Pan-India coverage of CTS by bringing all branches of
banks in the country under an image-based CTS clearing mechanism.
RBI imposes Rs 2 crore penalty on SBI for regulatory violations

On March 16, 2021, RBI has imposed a monetary penalty of Rs.2 crore on the State Bank of India over
“deficiencies in regulatory compliance”.SBI was penalized for “contravention of provisions of section 10
(1) (b) (ii) of the Banking Regulation Act, 1949 and specific directions of RBI issued to the bank on
payment of remuneration to employees in the form of commission”.
RBI Reported 9.1% Growth in India’s Software Services Export in FY20

Reserve Bank of India(RBI) released the data related to the 2019-20 round of annual survey on exports
of computer software and information technology-enabled services in which India’s export of software
services stood at USD 128.6 billion during 2019-20, registering 9.1 % growth over the previous year.
RBI Reported a ‘$36 Billion’ FPI Inflows into Equities, the Highest Record Since FY13
Reserve Bank of India(RBI) in its recent report stated that Foreign portfolio investors(FPIs) pumped
inflows into equities in India have made the highest record of $36 billion in FY21 up to March 10, which
is the highest one since FY13. RBI reported that the Household debt to GDP ratio has jumped sharply to
37.1% in Q2 of FY21 while the savings rate plunged to a low 10.4%.
RBI set up a 5-member External Advisory Committee headed by Shyamala Gopinath to Evaluate
Banking Applications
On March 22, 2021, the Reserve Bank of India(RBI) set up a five-member Standing External Advisory
Committee (SEAC) which is headed by former RBI Deputy Governor Shyamala Gopinath, for evaluating
applications for universal banks and small finance banks(SFBs). Applications for universal banks and
SFBs will first be evaluated by the RBI to ensure prima facie eligibility of the applicants, after which
SEAC will evaluate the applications.

Restrictions on PMC Bank was Extended till 30 June 2021 by RBI
On March 26, 2021, The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) extended the restrictions on withdrawals and
deposits in the Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative (PMC)Bank till 30 June 2021 due to the delay in
finalizing a prospective investor for the bank.PMC is a multi-state cooperative bank in which they are
regulated and supervised by the Central Registrar of Co-operative Societies (CRCS) and RBI.
RBI issued Guidelines on Merger/Amalgamation for Urban Cooperative Banks

On March 23, 2021, the Reserve Bank of India(RBI) issued RBI (Amalgamation of Urban Cooperative
Banks) Directions, 2020, guidelines for merger/amalgamation to all Primary/Urban Co-operative
Banks(UCBs) to place them in the public domain.It aims to provide an avenue for the non-disruptive
weak UCB sector by consolidating them with the strong one in that sector.
RBI imposes ₹15-lakh penalty on Fedfina

Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has imposed a monetary penalty of ₹15 lakh on Fedbank Financial Services
Ltd (Fedfina), Mumbai, for non-compliance with certain provisions of the central bank’s directions on
monitoring of frauds. This penalty has been imposed by RBI under the provisions of the Reserve Bank
of India Act, 1934.Fedfina, the Non-Banking Finance Company (NBFC) is a subsidiary of the Kerala-
based private sector lender Federal Bank, The Federal bank has 74 per cent stake in Fedfina.
BANKING TECHNOLOGY
TGB & APGVB become 1st RRBs in India to Launch Video-KYC Facility
Two Regional Rural Banks (RRBs) – Telangana Grameena Bank (TGB) & Andhra Pradesh Grameena
Vikas Bank (APGVB) became India’s 1st RRBs to launch Digital Savings Account opening facility through
Video-Know Your Customer (KYC) facility. Both RRBs are sponsored by the State Bank of India (SBI).
The feature was virtually launched by Dinesh Kumar Khara, Chairman of SBI.
Samsung Electronics, Mastercard, and Samsung Card join hands to launch a Fingerprint
Biometric Payment Card
On March 04, 2021, in Korea, Mastercard, Samsung Electronics’ System LSI Business, and Samsung Card
signed a MoU to develop a biometric card with a built-in fingerprint scanner sensor to provide faster
and secure payments transactions which will reduce physical contact by avoiding the entering of PIN on
Keypad. The biometric card with a fingerprint sensor is launched to eliminate the physical contact of
users at the payment terminal.
Union Bank of India along with HPCL launched ‘UNI-CARBON CARD’

On March 26,2021 Union Bank of India headquarters at Mumbai, Maharashtra launched first of its kind
‘UNI-CARBON CARD’, a credit card that is co-branded by HPCL in Rupay platform of National Payments
Corporation of India (NPCI) to create an opportunity to create value for the Bank’s customers. This card
is a contactless “Tap & Go” card and National Common Mobility Card(NCMC).
LOANS ISSUED BY BANKS

LOANS ISSUED BY RECEIVED BY AMOUNT KEY NOTES
Exim Bank Eswatini USD 10.40 On 3rd March 2021, on behalf of the
million (around government of India, the Export-Import
Rs.75.99 crore) Bank of India (Exim Bank) signed a soft
loan deal of 10.40 million USD (around
Rs.75.99 crore) with the country Eswatini
(former Swaziland). Exim Bank has
extended the Line of Credit(LoC) of to the

government of Eswatini for the
construction of a disaster recovery site.
With this LoC to Eswatini, Exim bank has
extended 3 LoC’s of total value 68.30
million USD to Eswatini.
Tata Cleantech Capital Japan 10 Billion Japan International Cooperation Agency
Ltd (TCCL) International Japanese Yen (JICA) signed a Loan agreement for a
Cooperation (~ INR 660 maximum amount of 10 Billion Japanese
Agency (JICA) Crore) Yen (~ INR 660 Crore) with Tata
Cleantech Capital Ltd (TCCL), a Non-
Banking Financial Company (NBFC) for
offering loans to Indian firms focussing
on Clean Energy Projects.The loans will
be provided through the Private Sector
Investment Finance Scheme of JICA and is
co-financing with the Sumitomo Mitsui
Banking Corporation (SMBC).
Japan India 232.86(~233) On March 26, 2021, Japan finalised loans
Billion and a grant totalling around
Japanese Yen 232.86(~233) Billion Japanese Yen (~
(~ INR 15433 INR 15433 Crores) for development of
Crores) several key infrastructure projects in
India. The funds will be provided through
the Japan International Cooperation
Agency (JICA). The notes on Loan & grant
were exchanged between Suzuki Satoshi,
Ambassador of Japan to India & Dr.C.S.
Mohapatra, Additional Secretary,
Department of Economic Affairs, Ministry
of Finance, Government of India.
AGREEMENTS & MoUs SIGNED

BANKS SIGNED WITH KEY NOTES
Small Industries National Stock On 2nd March 2021, the National Stock Exchange of India
Development Bank Exchange of India Limited (NSE India) signed a MoU with the Small Industries
of India (SIDBI) Limited Development Bank of India (SIDBI) headquartered at
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh for the cooperation in the various
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) initiatives of
NSE and SIDBI and to explore the feasibility of debt Capital
Platform for the MSMEs. The MoU enables the cooperation
between NSE and SIDBI for the benefits of the MSME sector.
Indian Overseas SBI General Indian Overseas Bank(IOB), a public sector bank signed a
Bank(IOB) Insurance Bancassurance with the SBI General Insurance to retail its
insurance products to the customers of the bank. This
partnership will improve the reach of insurance products in
urban, tier II and III markets.
Kotak Mahindra Indian Army On March 4, 2021, the private sector lender Kotak Mahindra
Bank Bank headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra signed a
Memorandum of Understanding(MOU) with the Indian Army
at New Delhi for providing salary accounts to all the active and

retired army personnel. The army personnel will get the
services like zero-balance salary account which earns up to 4%
interest per annum and free unlimited ATM transactions on all
VISA ATMs.
KVGB Our Food Private On 3rd March 2021, Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB)
Limited signed a MoU with Our Food Private Limited, Visakhapatnam,
Andhra Pradesh for arranging cost effective food processing
units to farmers through bank loan. Under this MoU, the
vendor will ensure the supply, delivery and installation of high
quality, standardised and branded equipment as the needs of
the farmers.
Yes Bank PNB Housing On 5th March 2021, PNB Housing Finance and Yes Bank
Finance headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra signed a strategic co-
lending service to provide convenient and customized retail
loans to homebuyers at competitive interest rates. Both PNB
housing Finance and Yes Bank will jointly do the due diligence
and co-originate the loan at agreed ratio.
State Bank of India Tata Motors On March 26, 2021, Tata Motors, a commercial vehicle
manufacturer has signed a three-year MoU with the State Bank
of India to offer financial assistance for its commercial vehicle
(CV) customers for the purchase of the Tata Motors’ range of
small and light commercial vehicles. Increased the official
maximum load-carrying capacity of heavy vehicles, including
trucks, by 20-25 %.
International Federation of Indian Signed a MoU to establish a framework for collaboration and
Financial Services Chambers of co-operation for the development of Gujarat International
Centres Authority Commerce and Finance Tec-City (‘GIFT’) IFSC.MoU will lead to future
(IFSCA) Industry(FICCI) collaborations and cooperation between IFSCA and FICCI for
the development of a world-class FinTech Hub in GIFT IFSC.
OTHER BANKING NEWS

SEBI eases Listing Rules for IPOs of Large Companies
Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra during its board
meeting eased the listing norms for large companies by enabling them to divest minimum 5% in the IPO
(Initial public offering), instead of 10%. Also, for raising the public float to 25%, the term has increased
to 5 years instead of 3 years. The meeting was also attended by Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman,
Ministry of Finance and Minister of State (MoS) Anurag Thakur.
SBI Mutual Fund launched its 1st overseas fund “SBI International Access – US Equity”
State Bank of India (SBI) Mutual Funds has launched its first overseas offering namely “SBI
International Access-US Equity FoF” which is an open-ended Fund of Fund (FoF) scheme that would
invest in mutual fund schemes /ETFs (exchange-traded fund) that invest in the United States (US)
markets. The offering will close on March 15, 2021. The scheme will invest 95-100% of its net assets in
Amundi Funds – US Pioneer Fund which invests predominantly in the US markets.
World Bank plans $100-mn Guarantee Scheme for Solar Rooftop Projects
In order to boost India’s rooftop solar programme, the World Bank (WB) headquartered at Washington,
D.C., United States is planning to launch a $100-million (~727 Crore Indian Rupees) credit guarantee
scheme along with the State Bank of India (SBI) and the MSME ministry. This scheme will enable micro,
small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and those firms which do not meet the lending criteria of

banks and other financial institutions to avail concessional debt financing for setting up rooftop solar
units.
SBI joins ‘Liink’ Blockchain-based payment network of JPMorgan

State Bank of India (SBI) joined ‘Liink’, a peer-to-peer Blockchain-based data network of US-based
Investment Banking Company JPMorgan chase. The partnership will help SBI to reduce transaction
costs, speed up Consumer transactions (including International transactions). SBI became the 1st bank
in India to go live on the blockchain-based payment network of JPMorgan.
Arya Partners With Canara Bank for Farm loan Management

On 2nd March 2021, Arya Collateral Warehousing Services Pvt. Ltd.(Arya), a post-harvest agriculture
technology provider, entered into a strategic partnership with Canara Bank to offer collateral
management and warehousing services to support the farmers with effective market linkage.The
partnership aims to support and extend finance to farmers, Farmer Producer Organisations(FPO),
processors, and various depositors stocking their agri-produce in Arya’s warehouses across India.
SEBI cancels Sahara India Financial Corp’s registration as sub-broker

On March 3, 2021,According to a designated authority’s report, Securities and Exchange Board of
India(SEBI) cancelled the certificate of registration of Sahara India Financial Corporation Ltd as a sub-
broker citing its failure to fulfill the “fit and proper” criteria in terms of Intermediaries Regulations.
Subrata Roy is a substantial shareholder in the company. In 2018, a designated authority was appointed
by SEBI to enquire whether Sahara India Financial violated provisions of Intermediaries Regulations.
Titan’s Fastrack ties up with Yono-SBI bank to launch a smart fitness band with digital
payment components
On March 05,2021, India’s largest watch maker, Titan’s youth brand Fastrack joined with Yono-State
Bank of India to introduce a new smart wearable fitness band with digital payment components under
its sub-brand Reflex. In order to strengthen its wearables and fitness category position among the youth
with the prevailing trend of digital payment which is accelerated by COVID-19.
Federal Bank to Launch Independent Credit Card

Federal Bank has partnered with Mastercard for launching Credit Cards in the coming months. It will
start issuing Credit Cards to its own customers. Federal Bank has also tied up with Fiserv, an American
Fortune 500 Company for the digitisation of the end-to-end issuance & processing cycle.
HDFC Bank launched “SmartUp Unnati for Women Entrepreneurs

On 8th March 2021 the HDFC Bank has launched “SmartUp Unnati”, a mentoring program by women for
women entrepreneurs. Under this programme, senior women leaders from HDFC bank with expertise
spanning domains will mentor women entrepreneurs to achieve their goals in the next one year. The
initial target of the programme is more than 3000 women entrepreneurs associated with the SmartUp
programme of HDFC Bank.
Axis Bank Launched WhatsApp Banking Service

On 3rd March 2021, Axis Bank launched the banking services on WhatsApp, this will enable the
customers to get information on their balance, transactions, credit card payments, and deposit details.
This is in line to the Dil se open philosophy of Axis Bank.This service will be available for both
customers and non-customers of the bank.

AckoDrive Partnered with IDFC FIRST Bank to Issue Free FASTags
On 6th March 2021, AckoDrive, an online car sales platform, a product of ACKO Technologies and
Services Private Limited partnered with IDFC FIRST Bank to issue free FASTags. IDFC FIRST Bank,
premier Indian banking company authorized by the National Highways Authority of India(NHAI) to
distribute FASTags.The AckoDrive issues FASTags over the digital platform without issuance fee,
paperwork or security deposit.
Yes Bank launched a women centric service – ‘Yes Essence’

On March 08,2021, In the event of International Women’s Day, Yes Bank launched a banking
proposition YES Essence service to offer preferentially priced loans and healthcare benefits for the
women customers. It aims to encourage the women customers to fulfil their aspirations by providing
different solutions covering various categories like lifestyle, wellness, education, protection and
investment.
Ujjivan SFB Launched “Garima Savings Account”, Women Savings Account

On 8th March 2021, Ujjivan Small Finance Bank (USFB) launched “Garima Saving Accounts”, a women
Saving Account to provide the financial needs of women. The account offers various customised
benefits for women which includes a maximum of 7% rate of interest on savings account.It aims to
support the financially aware and economically active women. To support the day-to-day banking
needs of women.
KVGB launches ‘Vikas Asha’ Loan Scheme for Women Entrepreneurs

Karnataka Vikas Grameena Bank (KVGB) has launched the ‘Vikas Asha’ Loan Scheme, under which the
bank will distribute loans of up to INR 10 Lakhs to Women Entrepreneurs. The scheme is exclusively for
women to meet their business-related needs, for purchasing machinery/equipment/vehicle. It shall
also be utilized for meeting the working capital requirements under Micro and Small Enterprises
including retail trade.
PNB Housing Finance Announced the Donation of Electric Cars to Women in Jaipur & Indore,
MP
On the occasion of International Women’s Day on March 08,2021 Punjab National Bank(PNB) Housing
Finance company has partnered with Delhi-based NGO, Azad Foundation to donate electric cars under
its initiative named ‘Women With Wheels’ for the women of Jaipur and Indore, Madhya Pradesh(MP). It
is a part of PNB’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) project called ‘SHE’.
Aquaconnect Partnered with BOB to provide Credit Access to Farmers under KCC scheme
On March 09,2021 Aquaculture tech company Aquaconnect partnered with Bank of Baroda(BOB) to
provide credit access to 1.6 million aquaculture farmers under the Kisan Credit Card (KCC)scheme. In
this regard, M V Murali Krishna, General Manager and Head of Rural and Agri Banking Department of
Bank of Baroda signed the MoU along with Arpan Bhalerao, Chief Growth Officer, Aquaconnect.
Providing credit access under the KCC at an annualized rate of as low as 10%.
DBS Bank India joined with TRRAIN to upskill differently-abled youth

On March 9,2021, DBS Bank India Ltd. (DBIL) headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra partnered with
TRRAIN (Trust for Retailers & Retail Associate of India) to support the youth from low-income
households, pandemic affected, and persons with disabilities through skill training and employment
opportunities. It is a part of the initiative ‘DBS Stronger Together Fund’.

Magicbricks Partnered with Razorpay & HDFC Bank for Property Service “Pay Rent” through
Credit Card
Magicbricks Realty Services limited(Magicbricks), a wholly owned subsidiary of Bennett, Coleman & Co.
Ltd of The Times Group, partnered with Razorpay and HDFC Bank to create a secure online solution
“Pay Rent” feature for rent payments through credit cards. The online solution is created with a focus
on the 10 million rental residential household market.
KVB Bank and Cholamandalam Investment announced a Co-lending Partnership

On March 10, 2021, Karur Vysya Bank(KVB) headquartered at Karur, Tamil Nadu and Cholamandalam
Investment and Finance Company Limited (Chola), the financial services arm of the Murugappa Group
launched their co-lending business partnership to make new customers all over India with technology
from Nucleus Software.The objective of co-lending model is to lower the cost of capital and open new
markets by enabling new loans at finer rates.
Axis Bank became First in India by launching its wearable contactless payment device ‘Wear ‘N’
Pay’
On March 10, 2021, Axis Bank headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra became India’s first bank after
launching its own wearable payment device named ‘Wear ‘N’ Pay’, to make contactless transactions. It
includes a variety of accessories like the band, key chain, and watch loop. Axis Bank partnered with
Thales and Tappy Technologies to design and create these products and they are available on the
Mastercard platform.
SBI Topped the MeitY Digital Payment Scorecard for 3 Consecutive Months
State Bank of India(SBI) headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra topped the Ministry of Electronics &
Information Technology(MeitY) Digital Payment Scorecard for 3 consecutive months. The scorecard
tracks the performance of the commercial banks on various digital parameters.SBI topped the list by
recording the highest UPI transaction volume of around 64crore with a user base of 13.5 crores.
SEBI Forms Expert Group Under PMAC to Examine Feasibility of SPACs

On March 11, 2021, Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) had formed the Group of Experts
under its Primary Market Advisory Committee (PMAC) to check the feasibility to implement Special
Purpose Acquisition Companies (SPACs) like structures in India.The objective is to raise money from
investors with the aim of acquiring private businesses by merging them. Essentially, a SPACs takes
companies or start-ups public through the back door route.
SEBI limited MF’s investment in Debt Instruments to 10% and Banned close-ended schemes
investment in perpetual bonds
On March 10, 2021 The Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) in its circular set a limit for
Mutual Funds (MF’s) investment to 10% in debt instruments with special features such as perpetual
bonds and 5% for single issuers and stated the maturity for perpetual bonds as 100 years. According to
PRIME Database, nearly Rs 37,000 crore was invested by MFs in perpetual bonds, as of January. MFs
should not invest more than 10% of Net Asset Value (NAV) in debt instruments with special features
and 5% of its NAV of the debt portfolio of the scheme in instruments and single issuers.
SBI & IOCL inked India’s First SOFR linked ECB deal by Replacing LIBOR
On March 16, 2021, the State Bank of India (SBI) headquartered at Mumbai,Maharashtra and Indian Oil
Corporation Limited (IOCL) inked the first SOFR (Secured Overnight Financing Rate) linked External
Commercial Borrowing (ECB) deal by replacing the London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (LIBOR) which is
used by world banks when charging each other for short-term loans.The SOFR linked ECB deal is for
about $100 million with a maturity of 5 years. It is the first SOFR linked ECB deal in India.

Deutsche Bank Executed World’s First Green Hedge with Continuum
On March 16, 2021, Deutsche Bank headquartered at Frankfurt, Germany and Continuum Energy
Levanter Pte Ltd, a subsidiary of Continuum Green Energy (Continuum) executed the world’s first green
hedging transaction based on a specially designed green hedge framework with a second party opinion.
The green hedge with a framework manages the currency exposure while ensuring investors receive
their returns on the green bond.
PNB Set up ‘PNB Cards & Services Ltd’ – A Subsidiary to Manage Credit Card Business
On March 16, 2021, Punjab National Bank (PNB) headquartered at New Delhi set up a wholly-owned
subsidiary named PNB Cards & Services Ltd to provide the non -financial support services related to the
credit card business of the bank.The authorized capital of PNB Cards & Services Ltd is Rs 25 crore and
the paid-up capital is Rs 15 crore. The company has been incorporated by the Registrar of
Companies(ROC), Delhi.
IATA partners with Standard Chartered Bank for providing EasyPay Services
International Air Transport Association (IATA) has partnered with Standard Chartered Bank
headquartered at London,England,UK for providing ‘EasyPay’ services to Travel Agents in India. It will
provide greater payment flexibility to travel agents.‘EasyPay’ is a ‘pay as you go’ service which aims to
replace the traditional billing and settlement plan payment methods (Cash or Credit Card).
ADB Raises $307 Million from 1st Panda Bond Issue in over a Decade
Asian Development Bank (ADB) headquartered at Metro Manila, Philippines has raised over USD 307
Million(~ INR 2232 Crore or Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY) 2 billion) from the 1st Panda bond issue in
more than a decade. This is ADB’s largest-ever borrowing in an Asian local currency.It is the first
borrowing of ADB from a CNY10 billion program approved by regulator National Association of
Financial Market Institutional Investors in June 2020.
Union Bank of India & SMC Global Securities Join Hands to Offer Online Trading
Union Bank of India(UBI), one of the Indian government-owned banks headquartered in Mumbai and
SMC Global Securities, offering brokerage services became partners to provide online trading services
to the bank’s customers. Customers can trade using the portal www.smctradeonline.com apart from
desktop and mobile applications.
SEBI Amended the Valuation Norms on Perpetual Bonds

On March 22, 2021, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) headquartered at Mumbai,
Maharashtra amended the valuation rule of Perpetual Bonds (Additional Tier-1(AT-1) and Tier-2
Bonds), under the intervention of the Finance Ministry, to modify its recent framework on Perpetual
Bonds. As per the amendments, the deemed residual maturity of Basel III additional tier-1(AT-1) bonds
are to be 10 years until March 31, 2022, and would be increased to 20 and 30 years over the subsequent
six-month period.
SEBI Issued New Framework for Delivery Default in Derivatives Segment

On 23,2021, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) along with the Clearing Corporation of
India Ltd. (CCIL) framed a new penal structure for the commodity derivatives segment in the event of
delivery default. In agricultural and non-agricultural commodities, the penalty for delivery default by
the seller will now be 4% and 3% of the settlement price plus replacement cost, respectively. The
delivery default norms will be effective from the first trading day of May 2021.

ICICI Bank in Partnership with BillDesk and Razorpay Launched Instant EMI Facility – ‘EMI @
Internet Banking’
On March 24, 2021, ICICI Bank headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra launched an instant EMI
(Equated Monthly Instalments) facility in its internet banking platform ‘EMI @ Internet Banking’ in
partnership with BillDesk and Razorpay, leading online payment gateway companies. ICICI Bank
becomes the first Indian bank to introduce an instant EMI facility on an internet banking platform.It
enables its pre-approved customers to convert their high-value transactions up to Rs 5 lakh into easy
monthly instalments.
IOB launched Savings Account for millennials – ‘IOB Trendy’

On March 24, 2021, Indian Overseas Bank (IOB) headquartered at Chennai, Tamil Nadu launched a
savings account named ‘IOB Trendy’ which is customised for the millennial population of the country to
meet their banking preferences.The millennial population comprises the people born during the period
1981-1996. In India, their population is estimated at 426 million, which is approximately 34 per cent of
the total Indian population.
SEBI’s review over IGP framework & other issues

On March 25, 2021, the Securities and Exchange Board of India(SEBI) decided to introduce many
relaxations to the framework of Innovators Growth Platform (IGP) to help start-up and made some
amendments to SEBI regulations such as Delisting of Equity Shares and Alternative Investment Funds.
Eligibility requirement for Issuers- The issuer should have 25% of pre-issue capital held by eligible
investors for 2 YEARS now it is reduced to 1YEAR…Click here for detailed version
YES Bank & SHEROES Launched ‘YES Essence Plus’ an Accelerator to Support Women
Entrepreneurs
On 24th March 2021, Yes Bank in partnership with SHEROES, a woman led social network launched
“YES Essence Plus” a unique accelerator program to support the women entrepreneurs and women led
startups.It aims encourage women entrepreneurs into the league of successful, scalable and sustainable
businesses.
Karnataka Bank joined with IIFL Securities to launch ‘KBL Smart Trade’
On March 26, 2021, Karnataka Bank headquarters at Mangalore, Karnataka made a tie-up with IIFL
Securities, a broking and advisory firm and introduced ‘KBL Smart Trade’, a solution for its customer’s
capital market needs by providing a facility to access IIFL Securities’ Demat and trading account. It will
provide a two-in-one account facility that the Karnataka Bank’s Savings Bank Account holders can open
a Demat & Trading a/c with IIFL Securities instantly.
FINANCE NEWS
India Grants NRs 44.17million to Nepal to Build School
Government of India has extended a grant of 44.17 Million Nepali Rupees(NRs) (around Rs. 2.7 crore)
to the Government of Nepal for the construction of new school buildings in Rupandehi district of
Lumbini province, Nepal under the Nepal Bharat Maitri Development partnership.
ABHICL introduced India’s first Health Insurance plan with upto 100% Premium returns
Aditya Birla Health Insurance Company Limited (ABHICL), Health Insurance subsidiary of Aditya Birla
Capital Limited, has announced India’s first initiatives of upto 100% health insurance premium returns
and other products with upgrades under the new version of its Flagship product ‘Activ Health Policy’.
‘Activ Health’ is Asia’s first plan to offer mental illness counselling coverage and Industries first to cover
unlimited homeopathy telemedicine.

Cashfree partners with PayPal to enable International Payments for Merchants
Cashfree, a Bengaluru-based payment & banking technology company has partnered with PayPal to
enable International payments for its merchants. It will enable businesses using Cashfree’s payment
gateway to show prices of all products in 28 + currencies.It will enable Businesses to add a PayPal
Express Checkout option to their order pages and accept payments from users across 200 markets.
NPCI tie up with SBI Payments to launch a solution ‘Rupay SoftPoS’

On March 05, 2021, National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) partnered with SBI Payments to
launch ‘RuPay SoftPoS’ to transform NFC enabled smartphones into Point of Sale (POS) terminals for
the merchants and retailers. In order to support Digital India’s initiative of cashless digital transaction,
NPCI has partnered with SBI Payments to launch a solution called ‘Rupay SoftPoS. Using this facility,
merchants were able to do digital payment and acceptance of up to INR 5000 through a simple ‘tap and
pay’ mechanism via their smartphones.
HDFC ERGO launched Business Kisht Suraksha, to Protect MFIs & Financial Institutions Against
Calamities
HDFC ERGO General Insurance, a non-life insurance company in the private sector, launched a Business
Kisht Suraksha, a unique cover to protect the balance sheet of the Microfinance Institutions(MIFs),
Financial institutions and banks against the natural calamities and disasters. This will address the
impacts of calamities on the lending business by compensating against climate change and protect the
Financial institutes from rising Non-Performing Asset (NPA).
Edelweiss General Insurance Partnered with InterMiles to introduce ‘Free Cancellation Travel
Insurance’
On March 10, 2021, India’s 1st cloud-native insurers, Edelweiss General Insurance in partnership with
InterMiles (leading travel and lifestyle rewards programme) launched Edelweiss Group Domestic
Travel Insurance. Customers booking tickets on InterMiles to travel anywhere in India can use this
policy by paying a nominal amount at the time of booking. Cancellation of the booking could be done
easily, using the policy’s Zero cancellation.
SEBI approved Paytm UPI handle to enable payment mandated for IPO applications
On March 16, 2021, The Securities and Exchange Board of India(SEBI) has approved Paytm UPI handle
to enable fast and seamless payment mandates for IPO applications to benefit millions of users to invest
in capital markets through various brokerage platforms using their @Paytm UPI Handle. As per the
latest National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) report, PPBL registers the lowest technical
decline rate of 0.02% as compared to all UPI remitter banks and 0.04% as compared to all UPI
beneficiary banks
NPCI Launched ‘UPI-Help’ Feature on BHIM UPI app

National Payments Corporation Limited (NPCI), an umbrella organisation for operating retail payments
and settlement systems in India launched ‘UPI-Help’ on Bharat Interface for Money (BHIM) UPI, a part
of its Digi-Help stack. This Feature will enhance the hassle-free experience on issue resolution for BHIM
UPI app users. Initially, this feature will be available for the customers of State Bank of India (SBI), AXIS
Bank, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank.
LIC of India launched an individual life assurance savings plan ‘Bachat Plus’
The Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) of India has launched Bachat Plus, a Non-Linked, Participating,
Individual, Savings Plan which offers a combination of protection and savings & financial support for
the family of the deceased policyholder any time before maturity. The Minimum Basic Sum Assured is

Rs 1,00,000/- with no upper limit. The maturity period of the plan is about five years. The minimum
policy term suitable is 10 years and maximum of 25 years under all the options.
Vayana Network Partnered with CRIF India to Launch GBS, a Tech-enabled Tools for MSMEs
Vayana Network, a leading Supply chain financing platform has partnered with CRIF Solutions India, a
global FinTech company and launched Good Business Score(GBS), a tech-enabled tool to support the
Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises(MSME) in India to effectively measure and manage their
businesses. It aims to provide the current accurate measure of the business health for MSMEs. GBS can
be accessed by businesses on the Vayana Network platform where the merchant data is secured and
confidential.
USAID, DFC announces USD 41 Million for financing Renewable Energy solutions in India
United States Agency for International Development (USAID) & US International Development Finance
Corporation (DFC) has announced a USD 41 Million (~ INR 297 Crore) Joint Loan Portfolio guarantee
program for financing investments in renewable energy solutions including rooftop solar installations
by Indian Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). India has set a target to install 175 GW of
renewable energy capacity by the year 2022. The government aims to achieve 40 GW renewable energy
capacity by 2022 through the installation of rooftop solar projects.
SEBI fines Rs.53 lakhs on 6 Entities for Violating SAST Regulations

On 16th March 2021, Security and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) fined Rs.50 lakhs on 4 individuals &
1 entity, Rajika Malhotra, Muskaan Malhotra, Shairee Malhotra, Makkanlal Sharma and Sirhind Steel
Ltd. and Rs.3 lakhs fine on Ravi Malhotra for lapses on making disclosure while dealing with Aroma
Enterprises (India) shares. The fine is imposed as they violated the provisions of SAST (Substantial
Acquisition of Shares and Takeover) Regulations.
India at 8th position in ‘Market-cap’ Among World’s Top 10 Nations: Bloomberg

As per Bloomberg’s recent data on Market capitalization, India remained at the 8th position among the
top 10 nations with a market capitalization of $2.8 trillion and its aggregate market capitalization
increased 88% in dollar terms this fiscal and leads among the world’s top 10 nations by market value
growth this fiscal.This is the sharpest increase in aggregate market capitalization since FY11.
IRDAI Hiked the Maximum Cover Under Arogya Sanjeevani Policy from Rs 5 Lakh to 10 Lakh
Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI), the insurance sector regulator has
hiked the maximum cover under the standard health insurance plan – Arogya Sanjeevani Policy – from
Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh and also has expanded the sum insured bands under the policy to between
₹50,000 and ₹10 lakh in multiples of ₹50,000 as against the previous range of Rs 1 lakh – Rs 5 lakh.
Aims to bring more people under the ambit of health insurance by enhancing the coverage available
under Arogya Sanjeevani Policy.
Govt Appointed NTPL as a Trustee for Rs 750 Cr Credit Guarantee Fund Under AHIDF
On March 19, 2021, NABSanrakshan Trustee Pvt Ltd (NTPL), the wholly-owned subsidiary of National
Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development(NABARD) headquartered at Mumbai, Maharashtra has
been appointed by the Government as a trustee for Rs 750 crore Credit Guarantee Fund under Animal
Husbandry Infrastructure Development Fund (AHIDF). The Credit Guarantee Fund will provide credit
guarantees to eligible entities assisted under AHIDF.The fund shall be operationalized under a trust –
Credit Guarantee Fund Trust for Animal Husbandry and Dairying (CGFTAHD).

Danish Red Cross Launched the World’s First Volcano Cat Bond
Danish Red Cross headquartered at Copenhagen, Denmark has sponsored and launched the world’s
first Catastrophe Bond (cat bond) for Volcano-related disasters with the support of several financial
firms. The cat bond covers 10 volcanoes, which aims to raise up to $3 million and will transfer money
from investors to the Danish Red Cross for aid in the aftermath of an eruption.
Niyo partners with Equitas SFB & Visa to launch NiyoX for millennials
Niyo, a digital banking fintech, has partnered Equitas Small Finance Bank Limited (ESFBL)
headquartered at Chennai, Tamil Nadu and Visa launched NiyoX, a mobile banking solution for
millennials. the NiyoX offers ‘007 banking’, it comes with 0% maintenance charges, 0% commission on
mutual fund investments and 7% interest on the account balance.
BharatPe launched D2R Finance to provide instant liquidity for SMEs

On March 26, 2021, BharatPe headquarters at New Delhi launched its lending product- Distributor to
Retailer (D2R) Finance, to provide instant liquidity to empower Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
D2R is a short-term loan that is innovatively designed to address the constant liquidity challenge faced
by SMEs and its loan disbursals will be within 1 business day.
ECONOMY & BUSINESS

GDP & GROWTH RATE
ORGANIZATION YEAR RATE
National Statistical Office Q3FY21 0.4%
(NSO) (October- In accordance with the National Statistical Office (NSO),
December, Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation
2020) (MoSPI) second advanced estimate, the growth of India’s
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is estimated at 0.4% in
Q3FY21 (October-December, 2020) stating India’s exit from
technical recession. GDP at Constant (2011-12) Prices in Q3
of 2020-21 is estimated at Rs 36.22 lakh crore, as against Rs
36.08 lakh crore in Q3 of 2019-20, showing a growth of
0.4%.On the other hand, for FY 2020-21, the gross domestic
product (GDP) would contract by 8%, the sharpest drop in
recorded history.
Organisation for FY 22 12.6%
Economic Co-operation On March 10, 2021, Organisation for Economic Co-operation
and Development (OECD) and Development (OECD) raises the Gross Domestic Product
(GDP) of India to 12.6% for FY 22, the highest among G20
countries. With his projection by OECD, India becomes the
fastest-growing economy in the world. OECD has raised the
GDP Projection by 4.7% from its December, 2020 projection
of 7.9% for FY22. OECD has projected the India’s GDP to
contract 7.4 per cent (-7.4%) in FY21 against the December
2020 forecast of 9.9% contraction (-9.9%).
CRISIL FY22 11%
On March 09,2021, The report of the rating agency CRISIL
(Credit Rating Information Services of India Limited)
projected India’s GDP to rebound to 11% in FY22(2021-
2022) with base-effect lift in first half and broad-based

growth in the second, after an estimated contraction of 8%(-
8%) inFY21(2020-2021). Corporate revenue growth has V-
shaped recovery in the first nine months of FY21 by
resilience in exports of information technology services and
pharmaceuticals.
UNCTAD 2020 Contracted 6.9%(-6.9%)
On March 18, 2021, the United Nations Conference on Trade
and Development(UNCTAD) released its Trade and
Development Report 2020 in which it expected India’s GDP
to have contracted 6.9%(-6.9%) in 2020 and grow 5% in
2021.Title of the trade report 2020 – ‘Out of the frying pan…
Into the fire?’.The report described the year 2020 as “Annus
horribilis” saying although warnings about the spread of
viruses have become more frequent in recent years, “nobody
anticipated the arrival of COVID-19 or its dramatic global
impact.”
Moody’s 2021 12 %
Moody’s Analytics, a subsidiary of Moody’s Corporation,
predicts India’s GDP to grow by 12 % in 2021 following a
contraction of 7.1%(-7.1%) in 2020, and in an earlier
estimate last November, it had said India’s GDP will grow at
9% in the calendar year 2021. Moody’s reported that most of
the economies will not to return to pre-pandemic activity
levels until 2022.
Fitch Ratings FY22 12.8%
Fitch Ratings, an American credit rating agency in its latest
Global Economic Outlook(GEO)-March 2021 has revised
India’s Gross Domestic Product(GDP) growth estimate to
12.8% for FY22 from 11% due to the stronger carryover
effect, and better virus containment. It expects global GDP to
expand by 6.1%in 2021, which is revised up from 5.3% in
their GEO, December 2020.
S&P Global Ratings FY22 11%
On March 25, 2021, S&P Global Ratings, the US credit rating
agency, raised India's GDP growth forecast for the financial
year 2021-22(FY22) to 11% from 10% with 0.4% growth in
the third quarter (Q3) of FY21 after a contraction in the
consecutive quarters Q1 and Q2.
Growth Forecast about Asia-Pacific group:It has mentioned
the emergence of a three-speed recovery pattern in Asia-
Pacific and raised its growth forecast to 7.3% for 2021, from
its earlier estimate of 6.8%.
ECONOMY NEWS
India attracted total FDI inflow of US$ 67.54 billion during April to December 2020
Due to the reforms made by Government of India in the last six and a half years to facilitate Foreign
Direct Investment (FDI) and in ease of doing business, India saw an increase in FDI inflows in 2020
despite of COVID-19 impact. India is becoming a preferred investment destination amongst global
investors. There was a total FDI inflow of US$ 67.54 billion during April to December 2020. It is the

highest ever for the first ninth months of a financial year and 22% higher as compared to the first ninth
months of FY20 (US$ 55.14 billion).
Wipro Joined World Economic Forum’s Initiative To Advance Social Justice In Business
Initiative
Wipro Limited, has joined the “Partnering for Racial Justice in Business initiative” launched by the
World Economic Forum on 25th January 2021, to promote a culture of diversity, inclusion, equity and
justice for people of all racial backgrounds in the workplace. The initiative is a global coalition of
organisations and their leaders, committed to build an equitable and just workspace for professionals
with ethnic and racial identity.
India became the World’s 4th largest Forex Reserve by surpassing Russia
As per the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) data, India’s Foreign exchange (Forex) reserves to become the
world’s fourth-largest by surpassing Russia.India’s foreign currency holdings fell by $4.3 billion to
$580.3 billion and Russia’s forex holdings were $580.1 billion. As of March 2021, International
Monetary Fund(IMF)table, China has the largest reserves, followed by Japan, Switzerland, India, and
Russia. Most of the foreign exchange reserves are held in U.S. dollars, as it is the most traded currency in
the world.
BUSINESS NEWS
Tabreed, IFC to invest USD 400 Million in India & Southeast Asia
United Arab Emirates’ (UAE) National Central Cooling Company or Tabreed & International Finance
Corporation (IFC) are set to invest USD 400 Million (~2900 Crore) in Capital deployment in India &
South-East Asian countries for building cooling service infrastructure. The focus areas of Investment
will be district cooling, trigeneration & cooling as a service offering. The Government of India Cooling
Action Plan (ICAP) estimates an eight-fold increase in Cooling service demand through to 2038.
Google.org to support 1 Million Women Entrepreneurs in rural India

Google.org the Philanthropic arm of Google will support 1 Million women entrepreneurs in rural India
by providing them with business tutorials, mentorship & accelerator programmes through Google’s
newly launched ‘Women Will’ web platform. A grant of USD 500, 000 will be provided to NASSCOM
(National Association of Software & Service Companies) Foundation for supporting 1 Lakh women
agriculture workers with digital and financial literacy. Google also launched a global org Impact
Challenge for Women & Girls.
Gautam Adani Becomes World’s Biggest Wealth Gainer in 2021; Beats Jeff Bezos & Elon Musk
On March 16,2021 , Adani Group chairman Gautam Adani become the World’s Biggest Wealth Gainer in
2021, ahead of Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, and Tesla CEO, Elon Musk as per the recent Bloomberg
Billionaires Index.Gautam Adani gained USD 16.2 billion & was followed by Google Co-founder Larry
Page, who gained 14.3 billion USD.As per Bloomberg Billionaires Index, now he became the 26th richest
person in the world.

MoU’s & AGREEMENTS

MoU’s BETWEEN COUNTRY
COUNTRY MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE
India Nepal India signed 4 MoU with Nepal to reconstruct 25 health post in
Dhading district and Sindhupalchowk district of Nepal at a cost of
Nepali Rupees 530 million (About Rs 33 Crore). These health posts
were damaged during the 2015 earthquake. 25 Health Posts that is
to be reconstructed are 12 health posts in Dhading district and 13
are located in Sindhupalchowk district.
India Nepal A MoU & Contract Agreement for restoration of 3 more Cultural
heritage sites in Nepal were signed between India & Nepal. India will
fund NPR 246 Million (~ INR 15.498 Crore) under the Government
of India reconstruction grant for the 3 Restoration Projects, the
projects are Jestha Varna Mahavihara, Lalitpur, Sulighyang Gumba,
Sindhupalchowk district and Shermathang Gumba, Sindhupalchowk
district, Nepal. India is undertaking reconstruction of 28 cultural
sector projects under the Indian reconstruction grant of which 6
contracts have already been awarded & reconstructed.
India Pakistan India & Pakistan agreed to strictly observe the ‘2003 Ceasefire
Agreement’ along the Line of Control (LoC) with effect from the
midnight of February 24/25, 2021. It was announced by the two
countries after discussions between the Director Generals of Military
Operations (DGsMO) of both Countries. In order to reduce attacks in
the border & to enhance peace between the countries, 2003
ceasefire agreement were agreed to follow by both the nations.
India Philippines On March 2, 2021, Philippines signed an implementing arrangement
for ‘procurement of defence material and equipment’ with India
during a pact’s signing ceremony at the Camp Aguinaldo in Manila,
headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. The agreement
involves the procurement of defence equipment by the Philippines
from India. Under this pact, there is a possible sale of the Indo-
Russian BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to the Philippines.
Russia China On 9th March, 2021 Russian space agency “Roscosmos” signed a
MoU with China National Space Administration (CNSA) for jointly
creating an International Lunar Scientific Research (ILSR) Station to
set up on the lunar surface and/or on the lunar orbit. With regard to
this project, Zhang Kejian, administrator of the CNSA signed MoU
with Russian space agency Roscosmos, chief Dmitry Rogozin.
MoU’s WITH STATES

STATE MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE
Odisha ArcelorMittal Nippon On 4th March 2021, the ArcelorMittal Nippon Steel(AMNS)
Steel(AMNS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the
Government of Odisha to set up an integrated steel plant
with the capacity of 12 Million tonne per annum (mtpa) in
Kendrapara district of Odisha with an investment of
Rs.50000 crore. CM Naveen Patnaik stated that the

investment will be made in the Kendrapara district which
will boost the InvestInOdisha campaign of the Government of
Odisha.
Uttarakhand IBM India On 8th March 2021, Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan, unit of
Samagra Shiksha Uttarakhand, education mission of the government of
Abhiyan Uttarakhand signed an MoU with IBM India to introduce IBM
‘STEM for Girls’ program in around 130 secondary and
Higher Secondary schools across 5 districts (Dehradun,
Pauri, Haridwar, Almora and Udham Singh Nagar) of the
state.STEM is an acronym of Science, Technology,
Engineering and Math.
Odisha’s IDCO IOCL On 9th March, 2021 Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL)
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
Odisha’s Industrial Infrastructure Development Corporation
(IDCO) to jointly set-up a State of art Plastic park in
Paradeep, Odisha. The project planned at a cost of Rs. 107
Crore over 120 acres of land, comes under the ambit of the
larger Petroleum Chemicals and Petrochemicals Investment
Region (PCPIR) at Paradeep. Plastic Park at Paradeep will be
the 1st Fully operational Plastic Park in India.
Karnataka ITC To execute a Watershed Programme covering over one
million acres in the southern state. The Programme will be in
effect for 3 years. The MoU was signed under the ITC’s Social
Investments programme ‘‘Mission Sunehra Kal” & the
Karnataka Watershed Development Department. The
agreement was a part of the Karnataka government’s
‘Watershed development for drought proofing’ programme
& it is a part of ITCs Sustainability 2.0 agenda.
Arunachal TRIFED On 19th March 2021, the Tribal Cooperative Marketing
Pradesh Development Federation of India (TRIFED) signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the state of
Arunachal Pradesh for implementing its flagship program,
“Mechanism for marketing of Minor Forest Produce (MFP)
through Minimum Support Price (MSP) & development of
value chain for MFP” scheme and Van Dhan Yojana.
MoU’s BETWEEN ORGANIZATION

ORGANIZATION MoU’s WITH FIELD / PURPOSE
NSE India IBX National Stock Exchange of India Limited (NSE India) signed a
MoU to set up a market infrastructure institution which
consists of International Bullion Exchange(IBX), clearing
corporation and depository, at the Gujarat International
Finance Tec (GIFT) City in Gujarat.
IIT Jammu Indian Army’s On March 05, 2021, The Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)
Northern Command Jammu entered into a MoU with the Indian Army’s Northern
Command to provide innovative technical solutions to them
about Jammu and Kashmir. IIT Jammu will involve in research
and product development collaborations with the Northern
Command field units to empower them with technical
excellence through some research initiatives in Jammu.

Liberty Steel Group Paul Wurth & SHS United Kingdom based Liberty Steel Group which is owned by
Indian-origin metals tycoon Sanjeev Gupta has signed MoUs
with 2 European companies namely Luxembourg based ‘Paul
Wurth’ & Germany based ‘SHS’ (Stahl-Holding-Saar) to set up
France’s 1st Hydrogen-based steel making plant. Liberty Steel
Group is part of the diversified GFG Alliance, which has a
presence in India.
BSE Investments Frontier Agriculture On March 5, 2021, a Joint Venture (JV) agreement was inked
Limited (BSEIL) Platforms Private between BSE Investments Limited (BSEIL) and Frontier
Limited (FAPL) Agriculture Platforms Private Limited (FAPL) under which the
latter bought 40% stake in BSE E-Agricultural Markets Limited
(BEAM). The reason behind this JV is to boost innovation in
agriculture markets.It is also on the lines of BSE Group’s
commitment to broaden access to agricultural markets for
investors and companies to create a ‘single market’ for
agriculture commodities.
Central Silk Board MoA&FW On March 7, 2021, a MoU was signed between the Ministry of
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare (MoA&FW) and Central Silk
Board under the Ministry of Textiles during ‘National level
programme on convergence of Agro-Sericulture and
eradication of Thigh reeling’ to incentivize farmers to take up
sericulture based Agroforestry models (Sericulture, or silk
farming, is the cultivation of silkworms to produce silk).As a
part of MoU, there will be implementation of Agroforestry in
the silk sector under the ongoing Sub-Mission on Agroforestry
(SMAF) Scheme.
Invest India Ministry of Women On March 8, 2021, the Ministry of Women and Child
and Child Development (MWCD) signed a MoU with Invest India for
Development enhancing cooperation in areas of Nutrition, Child Protection
(MWCD) and Development, Women Empowerment & Capacity building
in mission mode. Invest India will help the efforts of MWCD in
Build Strategic and Policy support, strengthen International
cooperation, Impact assessment, Sustained Behaviour Change
communication.
National Health UTIITSL National Health Authority(NHA) and UTI Infrastructure
Authority(NHA) Technology & Services Limited (UTIITSL) , company under the
Ministry of Finance signed an agreement to issue free new PVC
Ayushman cards to Ayushman Bharat-Pradhan Mantri Jan
Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) beneficiaries in 11 States/Union
Territory to avail the health service. Based on the above
agreement NHA will issue this free card using UTIITSL
technologies to Bihar, Manipur, Uttar Pradesh, Haryana,
Tripura, Nagaland, Chandigarh, Puducherry, Chhattisgarh,
Madhya Pradesh and Uttarakhand where the PM-JAY scheme
where currently force in these states.
Kholongchhu Hydro REC Ltd & Power On March 10,2021 REC Ltd (formerly Rural Electrification
Energy Ltd(KHEL) Finance Corporation Limited ) and Power Finance Corporation (PFC)
Corporation (PFC) from New Delhi made an agreement with Bhutan-based
Kholongchhu Hydro Energy Ltd(KHEL) for the financing of
600- megawatt(MW) hydroelectric project at Trashiyangtse,

Bhutan. The project is funded to be in a debt-equity ratio of
70:30. The project has been executed between India and
Bhutan’s as per Inter Governmental (IG) Agreement was signed
on 22nd April 2014.
NHSRCL JRTC National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) &
Japan Railway Track Consultant Co. Limited (JRTC) virtually
signed a MoU for Track works in the 237-km stretch between
Vadodara & Vapi in Gujarat for the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-
Speed Rail (MAHSR) also known as Bullet Train Project. It will
strengthen the ‘Make in India’ initiative & ensure the transfer
of technology from the Japanese high-speed rail system to
India. It is India’s First Bullet Train Project and is being
constructed at an estimated cost of INR 1.08 Lakh Crore.
Atal Innovation Aster DM Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog signed a Statement
Mission (AIM) Healthcare of Intent (SoI) with Aster DM Healthcare to change and
improve health care innovations & outcomes in India.Aster
Digital Health Incubator (ADHI), a unit of Aster DM Healthcare
Group will also support AIM’s initiatives such as Atal
Incubation Centers (AICs), Established Incubation Centres
(EICs), Atal Community Innovation Centres (ACICs) & Atal
Tinkering Labs (ATLs).
PTC India Limited NPC On 16th March 2021, PTC India Limited (Formerly known as
Power Trading Corporation of India Limited), a leading
provider of power trading solutions in India has signed an
initial pact with the National Productivity Council(NPC), under
Department for Promotion of Industry & Internal Trade,
Ministry of Commerce and Industry to explore the business
opportunities in consultancy services.
TRIFED Craft Village On 16th March 2021, the Tribal Cooperative Marketing
Development Federation of India (TRIFED) under the Ministry
of Tribal Affairs, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) with the Craft Village by ZEPHYR, a social organisation
working for the training and promotion of Craft Sector for the
overall development of the tribal communities.
APEDA NSIC On 17th March 2021, the Agricultural and Processed Food
Products Export Development Authority (APEDA), under the
Ministry of Commerce & Industry signed a Memorandum of
Understanding(MoU) with the National Small Industries
Corporation Ltd (NSIC) under the Ministry of Micro Small &
Medium Enterprise to support and empower agri
entrepreneurs. The MoU was signed by Dr Sudhanshu, APEDA
secretary and P Udayakumar NSIC Director in charge of
planning and marketing.
Atal Innovation AWS On March 18, 2021, A Statement of Intent (SoI) was signed
Mission (AIM) between The Atal Innovation Mission (AIM), NITI Aayog, and
Amazon Internet Services Private Limited(AISPL), a local legal
Indian entity of Amazon Web Services(AWS) to strengthen the
innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in India. As per
the SoI, AIM will leverage AWS Educate and AWS EdStart from
AWS (Amazon Web Services).

Labour Bureau BECIL Labour Bureau an attached office of Ministry of Labour &
Employment has signed a service level agreement with
Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Ltd (BECIL) for
providing technical and manpower support for conducting All
India Surveys on Migrant Workers & All India Quarterly
Establishment based Employment Survey (AQEES). BECIL will
provide technical support to all the surveys to be conducted by
the Labour Bureau.
ISRO NIT- Rourkela On 19th March, 2021 Indian Space Research Organisation
(ISRO) has signed a MoU with National Institute of Technology
(NIT)- Rourkela to set-up a Space Technology Incubation
Center (S-TIC) at NIT-Rourkela campus, Odisha. This will be the
4th S-TIC of the 6 targeted by ISRO. Under this MoU, Rs. 2
crores will be provided by ISRO to the NIT for infrastructure
development of S-TIC & to carry out ISRO projects &
prototypes.
CESL CSC SPV On 26th March 2021, Convergence Energy Services Ltd (CESL)
signed a pact with CSC e-Governance Services India Limited, a
Special Purpose Vehicle (CSC SPV) to create a demand
aggregation for the electric mobility(e-mobility), solar, energy
efficiency solutions and other initiatives of CESL.
JNPT CNB Logitech On 26th March, 2021, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT) has
signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with CNB
Logitech of Rs 100 crore per annum to monitor, track and
optimise the movement of 50 lakh containers in EXIM
trade.This MoU will help to achieve India’s maritime vision of
2030 by enhancing efficiencies.With this MoU, CNB Logitech
will be able to monitor over 50% of India’s container
movement in EXIM trade.
JKTPO TPCI On 20th March 2021, the Jammu and Kashmir Trade Promotion
Organization (JKTPO) signed a MoU with Trade Promotion
Corporation of India (TPCI) for the Agro & Food Processing
and Film Tourism Sector.MoU was signed by Ankita Kar,
Managing Director(MD) of JKTPO and Mohit Singla, Chairman
of TPCI during the inauguration of J&K Pavilion at South Asia’s
largest Integrated FB Trade Show – “Indus-food 2021” held at
Indian Exposition Mart, New Delhi.
BCAS YIAPL On 24th March, 2021, A Letter of Agreement (LoA) was signed
between the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) &
Yamuna International Airport Private Limited (YIAPL) in New
Delhi. Under this LoA Bureau of Civil Aviation Security will take
up security responsibilities of Jewar Airport, Uttar Pradesh.
LoA will help to implement the tasks relating to civil aviation
security, defined, and allocated for implementation of various
aspects of the National Civil Aviation Security Programme
(NCASP) at Noida International Airport.

OTHER MoU’S IN CONTENT FORMAT
India, Norway to conduct Marine Spatial Planning in Lakshadweep & Puducherry
India & Norway agreed to collaborate in the area of Marine Spatial Planning (MSP) in the Oceanic space
for the next 5 years. Lakshadweep & Puducherry have been identified as Pilot sites for the Project.
National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), Chennai will be preparing the MSP framework for
Puducherry & Lakshadweep in the initial phase of the project. MSP is part of India’s (draft) Blue
Economic Policy being developed by the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
• The Government of India’s vision of New India by 2030 highlights the Blue Economy as one of
the 10 core dimensions of growth.
NMCG, UPJN & GA Infra Private Limited sign Tripartite Agreement for Development of STPs in
Moradabad, UP
National Mission for Clean Ganga (NMCG), Uttar Pradesh Jal Nigam (UPJN) & GA Infra Private Limited-
Lahoti Buildcon Limited have signed an Tripartite Agreement for development of Sewage Treatment
Plants (STPs) at Moradabad, Uttar Pradesh.This is to eliminate flow of untreated sewage from
Moradabad city into River Ganga.Cost of the project – INR 99.68 Crore rupees.
Applied Materials India inked R&D pact with IISc

Applied Materials India, the local subsidiary of US materials engineering company Applied Materials
Inc., has signed a research and development (R&D) pact with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc),
Bengaluru, Karnataka. This pact is a part of the Industry Affiliate Program of the Centre for Nanoscience
and Engineering (CeNSE).
TBWES signed an agreement with Steinmüller Babcock Environment, Germany for Waste to
Energy Technology
Thermax Babcock & Wilcox Energy Solutions Private Limited (TBWES), a wholly owned subsidiary of
Thermax signed a know-how transfer and license agreement with Steinmüller Babcock Environment
GmbH (SBE) Industrial Equipment supplier based in Germany, for waste to energy technology.Pravin
Karve, CEO of TBWES and Thomas Feilenreiter, Managing Director of SBE signed the agreement for the
respective organisation.
MoU signed for implementation of City-Specific Action Plans in 132 cities under NCAP
On March 26, 2021, Representatives of State Pollution Control Boards, Urban Local Bodies & Institutes
of Repute (IoR) for 132 identified cities signed a MoU for implementation of city specific action plans
under National Clean Air Programme (NCAP). The MoU was signed in the presence of Prakash
Javadekar, Union Minister of Environment, Forest & Climate Change.
APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

APPOINTMENTS
NATIONAL
PERSON NAME APPOINTED ENTITY / PLACE KEY NOTES
AS
Tirath Singh Rawat Chief Minister Uttarakhand On 10th March 2021, Tirath Singh Rawat,
Members of Parliament (Lok Sabha), was
sworn in as the 9th Chief Minister(CM) of
Uttarakhand following the resignation of

Trivendra Singh Rawat on 9th March 2021
following the unease over his governance.
The Oath Taking Ceremony is administered
by Governor, Baby Rani Maurya. He was the
first Education Minister of Uttarakhand
when the state was formed in 2000.
Shri Girish Chandra Chairman Panel of External On March 09, 2021,14th Comptroller and
Murmu Auditors of the Auditor General of India (CAG), Shri Girish
United Chandra Murmu was re-appointed as the
Nations(UN) Chairman of the Panel of External Auditors
of the United Nations(UN) for the year
2021 to lead the panel to report and audit
the accounts and management operations
of the UN and its specialised agencies. He
was initially elected as Chairman of the
Panel for 2020. He was born in Mayurbhanj
District of Odisha.
Deepak Mishra Director and ICRIER On 13th March 2021, Deepak Mishra the
Chief Executive lead Economist and Practice Manager at the
World Bank was appointed as the new
Director and Chief Executive of the Indian
Council for Research on International
Economic Relations(ICRIER), the economic
think Tank of India. Deepak Mishra will
take over as the Director and Chief
Executive from Rajat Kathuria, who has
been serving as the Director and Chief
Executive of ICRIER since 1st September
2012.
Mary Kom Chairperson AIBA Champion On 1st March 2021, the International
and Veterans Boxing Association(AIBA) has appointed 6-
Committee time Boxing World Champion Mary Kom
(37 years old) as the new chairperson of
the AIBA Champion and Veterans
Committee.She won the Bronze medal at
the London Olympic Games held in 2012.
Olympic medallist Michael Philip Carruth of
Ireland was appointed as the Vice
Chairperson of the committee by the board
of directors.
Jaideep Bhatnagar Principal Press Information Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
Director Bureau(PIB) appointed Jaideep Bhatnagar, 1986-batch
General (DG) Indian Information Service (IIS) officer as
the Principal Director General(DG) of Press
Information Bureau(PIB). On 1st March
2021, he took over as the Principal DG from
the incumbent Kuldeep Sing Dhatwalia,
who superannuated on 28th February
2021.He has been serving as the Director

General, News Services Division of All India
Radio(AIR) since August 2020.
Tarun Bajaj Secretary Department of The appointments committee of Cabinet
Revenue notified that Department of economic
affairs secretary Tarun Bajaj has been given
the additional charge of the post of
secretary, department of revenue under the
Ministry of Finance, He succeeds Ajay
Bhushan Pandey who retires from February
28 2021.
GR Chintala Chairman APRACA On 5th March 2021, GR Chintala, the
Chairman of the National Bank of
Agriculture and Rural Development
(NABARD) took over as the Chairman of
Asia Pacific Rural and Agricultural Credit
Association(APRACA). He succeeds DPK
Gunasekera, General Manager of Bank of
Ceylon(BOC). For the first time since 1999,
an Indian became the chairmanship of
APRACA.
Arun Kumar Singh Chief Secretary Bihar On 28th February, 2021, The government
of Bihar has appointed Arun Kumar Singh,
1985-batch IAS officer, as the new Chief
Secretary of Bihar. He replaces the
incumbent Deepak Kumar, a 1984-batch
IAS officer. He will retire on 31st August
2021.Arun Kumar Singh was serving as the
Development commissioner of Bihar.
Naureen Hassan Vice President Federal Bank of The Board of Governors of the Federal
(VP) & Chief New York Reserve System of United States, gave
Operating approval for the appointment of Naureen
Officer (COO) Hassan, an Indian Origin, as the 1st Vice
President (VP) & Chief Operating Officer
(COO) of the Federal Bank of New York. She
will be holding the 2nd highest post (Vice
President) with effect from 15th March,
2021. Most recently she served as the Chief
Digital Officer for Morgan Stanley Wealth
Management (MSWM). Her work focuses
primarily on digital and business process
transformation.
Anurag Thakur Captain Territorial Army Minister of State (MoS) for Finance and
Corporate Affairs, Anurag Thakur has
become the first serving member of
parliament (MP) to be appointed as Captain
in the Territorial Army.
The four-time BJP MP from Himachal
Pradesh’s Hamirpur was commissioned
into the Territorial Army as a Lieutenant in
July 2016.

Pallav Mohapatra MD and CEO Arcil On March 9, 2021, Pallav Mohapatra was
appointed MD and CEO by Asset
Reconstruction Company (India) Ltd
(Arcil). Arcil’s former MD and CEO Vinayak
Bahuguna was resigned once his five years
terms had finished in June 2020.Pallav
Mohapatra was a former MD and CEO of
Central Bank of India (CBoI) from
September 21, 2018, to February 28, 2021.
GP Samanta Chief India On 10th March 2021, GP Samanta, an
Statistician advisor in the Department of Statistics and
information management(DSIM), Reserve
Bank of India(RBI) was appointed as the
4th Chief Statistician of India(CSI) for a
term of 2 years. Samanta replaces Dr.
Kshatrapati Shivaji, a 1986 batch IAS officer
who has been the CSI since September
2020.CSI will also hold the post of the
Secretary of the Ministry of Statistics and
Programme Implementation(MoSPI).
Satishwar Managing Aegon Life Aegon Life Insurance Limited, transforming
Balakrishnan Director & Chief Insurance Limited to become India’s first digital-only life
Executive insurance company has elevated Satishwar
Officer Balakrishnan to be the Managing Director &
Chief Executive Officer.He was involved in
advancing their ‘do-it-yourself’ insurance
solution. He joined the company in July
2019 as its Chief Financial Officer(CFO).
Kapil Dev Board Member PGTI On 15th March 2021, Former Indian
Cricketer Kapil Dev was inducted into the
Professional Golf Tour of India (PGTI) as a
board member. Kapil Dev, the captain of the
Indian Cricket team that won the 1983
World Cup, will be working towards the
development of Golf in the country. The
official inclusion of Kapil Dev was made
while announcing the Prometheus School
Delhi-NCR Open Golf Championship 2021,
which will be held from 16th to 19th March
2021 in Gurugram, Haryana.
Dr Harsh Vardhan Chairman Stop TB On 17th March 2021, Dr Harsh Vardhan,
Partnership Board Union Minister, Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare(MoHFW) was appointed as
the Chairman of ‘Stop TB Partnership
Board’ for a term of 3 years starting from
July 2021. The appointment is in
recognition of his contribution to the
movement to eradicate Tuberculosis(TB)
from India by 2025. He will succeed Dr.

Luiz Henrique Mandetta, Minister of Health
of Brazil.
M. A. Ganapathy Director- National Security On 16th March 2021, the Appointments
General(DG) Guard(NSG) Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) approved
the appointment of M. A. Ganapathy, as the
Director-General(DG) of National Security
Guard(NSG). Kuldiep Singh has been
Kuldiep Singh DG CRPF appointed as the DG of Central Reserve
Police Force(CRPF). M. A. Ganapathy
succeeds outgoing DG, S S Deswal. Kuldiep
Singh succeeds AP Maheshwari.
Saurabh Garg CEO UIDAI On 25th March 2021, as a part of the
Bureaucratic reshuffle, the Appointment
Committee of the Cabinet approved the
appointment of Saurabh Garg, as the Chief
Executive Officer (CEO) of Unique
Sanjeev Kumar Chairman AAI Identification Authority of India
(UIDAI).Sanjeev Kumar appointed as
Chairman of Airports Authority of India
(AAI). He succeeds Ajay Bhushan Pandey as
the CEO of UIDAI.
Soma Mondal Chairman Standing On 26th March 2021, Soma Mondal,
Conference of Chairman of Steel Authority of India
Public Enterprises Limited (SAIL) was elected as the new
(SCOPE) Chairman of Standing Conference of Public
Enterprises (SCOPE). She has been elected
for a 2-year term with effect from 1st April
2021. Pradip Kumar Das, Chairman &
Managing Director (CMD) of Indian
Renewable Energy Development Agency
Limited (IREDA) has been elected as the
Vice Chairman of SCOPE.
Anish Shah MD & CEO Mahindra and On 25th March 2021, Anish Shah was
Mahindra appointed as the Managing Director(MD)
Ltd(M&M) and Chief Executive Officer(CEO) of
Mahindra and Mahindra Ltd(M&M) with
effect from 2nd April 2021.He takes over
from Pawan Goenka who will retire as the
MD and CEO, and member of the Board of
Directors of M&M on 2nd April 2021. Anish
Shah is currently serving as the deputy
managing director and Chief Financial
Officer(CFO) of the company.
INTERNATIONAL
PERSON NAME APPOINTED AS ENTITY / PLACE KEY NOTES
Patrick Achi Interim Prime Ivory Coast On 8th March 2021, Ivory Coast President
Minister Alassane Ouattara appointed Patrick Achi as
the interim Prime Minister of Ivory Coast
due to the poor health condition of

incumbent Hamed Bakayoko.Patric Achi, a
member of The Democratic Party of Ivory
Coast – African Democratic Rally, served as
the government spokesman for President
Alassane Ouattara.
Samia Suluhu President Tanzania On March 19, 2021, Samia Suluhu
Hassan Hassan,61 sworn in as Tanzania’s first
woman President by succeeding John
Magufuli (2015-2021) at the State House in
Dar es Salaam, which is the country’s
largest city. She is the sixth President of
Tanzania and 2nd female president within
the East African Community. Tanzania’s
Capital – Dodoma and Currency - Tanzanian
shilling.
Denis Sassou President Republic of Congo On 23rd March 2021, Denis Sassou
Nguesso Nguesso(77-year-old), President of
Republic of Congo was re-elected as the
President with more than 88.57% of the
vote. He has been the President of Congo for
the accumulated 36 years. Republic of
Congo’s Capital- Brazzaville and Currency-
Central African CFA franc.
Ligia Noronha Assistant NY Office of the UN Chief Antonio Guterres has appointed
Secretary-General UNEP Indian economist Ligia Noronha as
(SG) and Head Assistant Secretary-General (SG) and Head
of the New York(NY) Office of the United
Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
She will succeed fellow Indian and
development economist Satya Tripathi.
Ligia Noronha has previously worked as
UNEP’s Economy Division based in Nairobi,
Kenya and has worked on several agendas
like inclusive green economies, sustainable
consumption & production as well as on
trade & sustainable finance.
Ajai Malhotra Chairperson Advisory Committee Ajai Malhotra has become the first Indian to
of the United be elected as the Chairperson of the
Nations Human Advisory Committee of the United Nations
Rights Human Rights Council(UNHRC). His 3-year
Council(UNHRC) term on the committee will expire on 30th
September 2023. The Advisory Committee
is a body of 18 independent experts serving
as a think-tank to the United Nations
Human Rights Council.
Thomas Bach President ICO On 10th March 2021, the Executive Board of
the International Olympic Committee (IOC)
re-elected Thomas Bach for an additional
term of 4 years as the President of ICO until
2025. His current term as the President of

IOC will finish on the closing day of the
Tokyo Olympic Games on 8th August 2021
and his second term as the President will
start on 9th August 2021 and will conclude
in 2025.
Dr. Vivek Murthy Surgeon General United States of Indian American Physician, Dr. Vivek
America Murthy, (43 years old) sworn in as the 21st
Surgeon General of the United States of
America. This is his 2nd time as Surgeon
General of the US. Previously In 2013,
nominated by Former President Obama he
held the position as the 19th Surgeon
General. He was the youngest ever to hold
the office at the age of 37.He was sworn in
by Xavier Becerra, Secretary of Health and
Human Service.
BRAND & CAMPAIGN AMBASSADORS

PERSON NAME BRAND / CAMPAIGN KEY NOTES
Rohit Sharma Brand Ambassador On 5th March 2021, Glenmark Pharmaceuticals
Limited has signed Indian Cricketer Rohit Sharma as
its brand ambassador. He will be representing
Glenmark’s “Candid Powder”, the well-known brand
of Glenmark’s consumer care division. It is useful in
the treatment of fungal infections such as athlete's
foot, jock itch and ringworm. It also used to get relief
from itches, burns, redness, and other discomforts
such as the cracking of the skin.
Ajinkya Rahane Brand Ambassador On March 17, 2021, NeoGrowth Credit Pvt., Ltd
announced the appointment of Indian cricketer
Ajinkya Rahane as its brand ambassador for one
year. Rahane will feature in a campaign of the
company named “Keeping it simple”.In the
campaign, Ajinkya Rahane will talk about the ease of
procuring loans through NeoGrowth for small
businesses which will be released in the first week
of April.
OTHER APPOINTMENTS & RESIGNATIONS

World Economic Forum announced the 2021 Class of Young Global Leaders
On 10th March 2021, the World Economic Forum(WEF) released the list of 112 Young Global
Leaders(YGL) 2021. 7 Indians (Shreevar Kheruka, Aditi Avasthi, Srikanth Bolla, Gazal Kalra, Ameya
Prabhu, Hriday Ravindranath and Hitesh Wadhwa) joined the Class 2021 of WEF’s Forum of Young
Global Leaders. Forum of Young Global leaders is a group of remarkable people under the age of 40
from diverse communities and industries across the globe…..Click here for other details

ACC Approved 3 Months Extension in the Reappointment of CBDT Chairman Pramod Chandra
Mody
On 28th February 2021, the Department of Personnel and Training, Government of India announced
that the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved a 3 months extension in the
reappointment of Pramod Chandra Mody as Chairman, Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT).The 3-
months extension is effective from 1st March 2021 to 31st May 2021 or until further notice.
Centre Appoints High-Level Team to Review Medical Care Arrangements for Haridwar Kumbh
Mela
A 3-member high-level team led by Dr S K Singh, Director of National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC)
has been appointed by the Government of India to review the Medical care and public health
arrangements. The 3-member team will focus on the status of implementation of the Standard
Operating Procedure (SOP) for the Kumbh Mela which was issued by the team in the context of
implementing preventive measures to contain the spread of COVID-19. for the Kumbh Mela at
Haridwar, Uttarakhand which will start on 1st April 2021.
NITI Aayog sets up 2 Task Forces to achieve Policy Certainty in Contract Enforcement, Dispute
Resolution
NITI Aayog has constituted 2 Task Forces for recommending policy framework for enforcement of
contracts & effective conciliation mechanism. The Task Force for Enforcement of contracts will be
headed by Rajiv Kumar, Vice Chairman of NITI Aayog. The Task Force for Effective conciliation
mechanism will be headed by Amitabh Kant, CEO of NITI Aayog.
AYUSH Ministry Set Up Interdisciplinary Team chaired by H R Nagendra to Explore Potential of

Yoga
The ministry of AYUSH has set up an interdisciplinary team of experts to explore the potential of Yoga
as a productivity enhancing tool for the population. The Committee is Chaired by HR Nagendra,
Chancellor of Swami Vivekananda Yoga Anusandhana Samsthana. Members of the committee include
the representatives from AIIMS, New Delhi ; IIM Bangalore ; IIT Bombay ; and other leading Yoga
institutions, the corporate sector and the Ministry of AYUSH.
Govt Extended the Term of K. VijayRaghavan as PSA for One Year Till April 2022
On March 25, 2021, The official order issued by the Department of Personnel and Training stated that
the government has extended the term of K. VijayRaghavan as Principal Scientific Advisor (PSA) for one
more year.K.VijayRaghavan, 67 was appointed as PSA in 2018, after retiring as Secretary, Department
of Biotechnology. His contract ends on April 2 but has now been extended until April 2022.He was
conferred with the Padma Shri award in 2013.
AWARDS
AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF ARTS & CULTURE FILMS
AWARD NAME AWARD WINNER FIELD KEY NOTES
Annual National Categorised in Film On March 22, 2021, the 67th edition of annual
Film Awards Three Sections National Film Awards was announced, it
bestows honours on films and artists for the
year 2019.The National Film Awards are given
out by the Directorate of Film Festivals, an
organisation which comes under the Ministry

of Information & Broadcasting. Most Film
Friendly State – Sikkim (Medal – Rajat Kamal),
Best Non-Feature Film – An Engineered Dream
(Hindi Film), Best Feature Film – Marakkar-
Arabi Kadalinte-Simham (Malayalam), Best
Children’s Film award – Kastoori (Hindi).
Click here
Golden Globes Nomadland Best Motion 78th Golden Globes Awards 2021 took place in
Awards 2021 directed by Chloé Picture Drama a Hybrid Format on 28th February 2021. It
Zhao was the first bi-coastal ceremony, filmed from
Los Angeles and New York City, United States
of America(USA) hosted by Amy Poehler from
Beverly Hills, Los Angeles and Tina Fey from
New York’s Rainbow Room.It was produced by
Dick Clark productions in association with the
Hollywood Foreign Press Association(HFPA).
Satchel Lee and Jackson Lee who became first
Black male ambassador of Golden Globe,
children of filmmakers and three-time Golden
Globe Nominee Spike Lee and his wife Tonya
Lewis Lee, philanthropist are 2021 Golden
Globe Ambassadors. Click here
Critics Best Actor Late Actor Sushant Film On February 20, 2021, the Dadasaheb Phalke
Award Singh Rajput International Film Festival (DPIFF) Awards
2021 were announced. DPIFF was introduced
to commemorate the Father of Indian Cinema
Dadasaheb Phalke.DPIFF In-House Partners
are We Work, Silly Monks, Spanrig, OY Event,
North India Fashion Week, Krishna Kunj
Productions.Late Actor Sushant Singh Rajput
was awarded the ‘Critics Best Actor’ award for
his performance in the movie ‘Dil
Bechara’. The full list of awards can be
accessed here
Annual GRAMMY Taylor Swift Best Album of On 14th March 2021, The 2021 GRAMMY
Award (2020) the year for her Awards officially known as the 63rd Annual
album “Folklore” GRAMMY Award (2020) was presented and it
recognised the recordings released between
1st September 2019 and 31st August 2020.
Trevor Noah, an award-winning comedian
from South Africa hosted the ceremony at Los
Angeles, United States. The awards were
presented under 83 categories and the 63rd
Grammy Awards for Best Immersive Audio
Album will be announced next year in addition
to the 64th Grammy nominations. More
Awards Click here
FIAF Award 2021 Amitabh Bachchan Film Indian Actor Amitabh Bachchan became first
Indian to receive the FIAF Award 2021 by the
International Federation of Film Archives

(French: Fédération Internationale des
Archives du Film, FIAF), an international
organization of film archives and museums
across the globe over a virtual award
ceremony hosted from Mumbai, Maharashtra.
Maharashtra Asha Bhosle Music A committee chaired by Chief Minister of
Bhushan award Maharashtra, Uddhav Thackeray announced
singer Asha Bhosle has been selected for the
Maharashtra Bhushan award for the year
2020, Maharashtra State highest civilian
award for outstanding individual
achievements in their field, The award,
instituted in 1996 carries a cash prize of ₹10
lakh.
AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SOCIAL SERVICE, SCIENCE & BRAVERY

International Ranger Ranger Mahinder Giri Bravery Ranger Mahinder Giri of Rajaji Tiger
Award Reserve(RTR) became the only ranger
from Asia to win the prestigious New
International Ranger Award for his
efforts towards reducing the human-
wildlife conflict in and around the RTR
and his role in trigger translocation
exercise from Corbett Tiger Reserve to
RTR.The award was announced for 10
professionals across the globe by the
International Union for Conservation
of Nature (IUCN) and World
Commission on Protected Areas
(WCPA).
AWARDS IN THE FIELD OF SPORTS

BBC Indian Koneru Humpy Chess player Padma Shri Koneru Humpy, a 33-year-old chess
Sportswoman of player from Andhra Pradesh won the 2nd edition
the year (BBC of the BBC Indian Sportswoman of the year (BBC
ISWOTY) 2020 ISWOTY) 2020. The award was given based on
the public vote in which Koneru Humpy won
against sprinter Dutee Chand, airgun shooter
Manu Bhaker, wrestler Vinesh Phogat, and
hockey captain Rani Rampal.
Lifetime Achievement Award received by Anju
Bobby George and Emerging Player of the Year
award received by Olympian Manu Bhaker, an
airgun shooter.

OTHER IMPORTANT AWARDS
Sahitya Akademi Arundhathi For Her English On 12th March 2021, The winners of the
Awards 2020 Subramaniam poetry collection Sahitya Akademi Awards 2020 were
“When God is a announced by the National Academy of
Traveller” Letters during an event organised for the
annual Festival of Letters, held from 12th
March 2021 to 14th March 2021.
Annually the Sahitya Akademi presents
the award to the literary works in the 24
languages including English which are
recognised by the Akademi. Important
Awardees:
Poet Arundhathi Subramaniam received
the Sahitya Akademi Award 2020 for her
English poetry collection titled “When
God is a Traveller”. M Veerappa Moily,
Former Chief Minister of Karnataka and
Congress Leader has won the award for
his Kannada epic poem title “Sri Bahubali
Ahimsa Digvijayam”. Bengali author Mani
Shankar Mukhopadhyay popularly
known as Shankar has received the
award for his memoirs titled Eka Eka
Ekashi. Click here
United Nations’s Sasmita Lenka Environment Sasmita Lenka, Divisional Forest Officer,
2020 Asia Athagarh Forest Division of Odisha
Environmental became first Indian has received the
Enforcement United Nations’s 2020 Asia
Award Environmental Enforcement Awards
under the category Impact and Gender
Leadership. The 2020 theme of the 5th
edition Asia Environmental Enforcement
Awards “Fighting Transboundary
Environmental Crimes”. Wildlife Crime
Control Bureau of India won the award
under Innovation category. The award
was presented by the United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP) in
partnership with UNDP, UNDOC, the
secretariat of CITES, INTERPOL and
World Customs Organization.
CERAWeek Global Narendra Modi 39th edition of annual CERAWeek
Energy and Conference 2021 was held virtually for
Environment the first time from March 1-5, 2021
Leadership Award where PM Narendra Modi was conferred
with CERAWeek Global Energy and
Environment Leadership Award. CERA
stands for Cambridge Energy Research
Associates (CERA). India has set a target

- to boost the share of gas in its fuel mix to
15% from the current 6% by 2030. The
conference was organized by IHS Markit,
the sessions and themes of the
conference were inspired by the new
book titled ‘The New Map: Energy,
Climate and the Clash of Nations’ which
written by IHS Markit Vice Chairman and
CERAWeek Chairman Daniel Yergin.
India’s Best Bank HDFC Bank Best Bank (SMEs) On March 25, 2021, HDFC Bank, was
for Small and adjudged the ‘India’s Best Bank for Small
Medium and Medium Enterprises(SMEs)’ at the
Enterprises(SMEs) Asiamoney Best Bank Awards 2021 of
Asiamoney for the transformation of its
Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises
(MSMEs) business. HDFC’s advances to
MSMEs as of December 31, 2020, is about
Rs2.02 trillion ($28 billion) which is 38%
higher than in 2019. Click here
Great Place to ESAF Small Finance High-Trust and On 23rd March, 2021, ESAF Small
Work Bank (SFB) Performance Culture Finance Bank (SFB) headquartered at
Headquarter - Thrissur, Kerala was
awarded with ‘Great Place to Work’ by
Great Place to Work Institute. The Award
was presented after conducting a survey
with the employees by the third-party
global authority. The Survey recognises
the high-trust and performance culture
at workplaces. It shows the bank's
commitment and credibility amongst its
employees.
Top 20 Global Dr. Tamilisai Governor Dr. Tamilisai Soundararajan holds the
Women of Soundararajan portfolio of Governor of Telangana &
Excellence award Lieutenant Governor of Puducherry
– 2021 (Currently under President Rule) was
conferred with the Top 20 Global Women
of Excellence award – 2021 through
video conference from USA. The award
was presented by the USA on the
recommendation of a Multi Ethnic
Advisory Task Force, headed by US
Congressman Danny K. Davis.
Baton of Honour Kiran Bedi Former Puducherry On March 08,2021 President Ram Nath
Lieutenant Governor Kovind presented a baton of honour and
a letter of appreciation to former
Puducherry lieutenant governor Kiran
Bedi at Rashtrapati Bhavan, New Delhi.
The Baton which is decorated with the
emblem of the Indian Republic was given
as a memento for recognizing Kiran

Bedi’s service in the Union Territory of
Puducherry and to appreciate her
constitutional duties discharging
method. She is the first female IPS officer
who started her service in 1972.
King Bhumibol Indian Council of Healthy Soils Indian Council of Agricultural Research
World Soil Day Agricultural (ICAR) received the King Bhumibol
2020 Award Research (ICAR) World Soil Day 2020 award for its
contribution towards creating awareness
on the importance of healthy soils in line
with the theme of World Soil Day 2019 –
Stop Soil Erosion, Save our Future.The
award was presented at the ceremony
held in Bangkok, Thailand on 7th March
2021. On Behalf of ICAR, Suchitra Durai,
Ambassador of India to the Kingdom of
Thailand received the award from H.E.,
Dr Chalermchai Srion, Minister of
Agriculture and Cooperatives, Kingdom
of Thailand.
Pritzker Anne Lacaton and Architecture On 16th March 2021, French architects
Architecture Prize Jean-Philippe Vassal and educators Anne Lacaton and Jean-
2021 Philippe Vassal were selected as the
laureates of the Pritzker Architecture
Prize 2021, the highest honour in the
field of architecture. The award was
announced by Tom Pritzker, Chairman of
The Hyatt Foundation. Anne Lacaton
became the first French female architect
to win the prize and the 6th woman to
receive the prize since it was established
in 1979.
Vyas Samman Sharad Pagare Historic Novel Established Hindi writer Professor
2020 Sharad Pagare from Madhya Pradesh has
been chosen as the recipient of the
prestigious Vyas Samman 2020 for his
historic novel titled “Patliputru ki
Samragi”. The 2020 Vyas Samman is the
30th Vyas Samman presented by KK
Birla Foundation.The novel – “Patliputru
ki Samragi” was printed in the year 2010.
‘Role Model’ National Thermal Human Resources On March 18, 2021, National Thermal
Award Power Corporation Power Corporation Limited(NTPC), a
Limited(NTPC) Public Sector Undertaking under the
Ministry of Power has been conferred
with the ‘Role Model’ Award at the 11th
Confederation of Indian Industry(CII)
National HR Excellence Award 2020-21.
NTPC is the only PSU to have received
this prestigious award. The award was

presented at the virtual conference
“Learn from the Achievers”. It is the
highest level of recognition in the field of
Human Resources by CII.
RECOGNITIONS
NAME RECOGNITION
ReNew Power On March 16,2021 India’s leading Renewable energy company “ReNew
Power,” one of the two Indian companies has been named the Global
Lighthouse Company by World Economic Forum(WEF).With this
recognition, ReNew Power becomes World’s first clean energy company to
be recognised as a Lighthouse by World Economic Forum.WEF Global
Lighthouse Network recognizes companies using new technologies to
achieve environmentally sustainable, community-supportive, profitable
growth.
AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS IN CONTENT FORMAT

5 Indian-Origin personalities & 1 Indian Activist feature in TIME Magazine’s Annual List of 100
5 Indian-origin personalities & 1 Indian Activist have been featured in the 2021 TIME100 Next (TIME
Magazine’s 100 emerging leaders list). The 5 Indian origin personalities are Vijaya Gadde (Chief Legal
Officer of Twitter), Rishi Sunak (Britain’s Finance Minister), Apoorva Mehta (Founder & CEO of
Instacart), Shikha Gupta (Executive Director of Nonprofit ‘Get Us PPE’) & Rohan Pavuluri (Founder of
Nonprofit ‘Upsolve’). Bhim Army Chief Chandra Shekhar Azad is the sole Indian activist who has been
named in the list.
40 scholars from 6 countries recommended for Indian Science Research Fellowship (ISRF)
2021
Forty scholars from six countries have been recommended for award of Indian Science Research
Fellowship (ISRF) 2021. As part of India’s initiatives to engage with neighbouring countries to develop
Science and Technology (S&T) partnerships, the Department of Science and Technology (DST) has
launched ISRF Programme. Countries covered under this programme are Afghanistan, Bangladesh,
Bhutan, Maldives, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Niger’s President Mahamadou Issoufou wins 2020 Ibrahim Prize

Niger’s President Mahamadou Issoufou has won the 2020 Ibrahim Prize( $5 million award) for
Achievement in African Leadership, who is the sixth recipient.The prize was introduced by Sudanese
billionaire Mo Ibrahim’s foundation in 2006, which is awarded on criteria of good governance,
democratic election and respect of terms limits.
Bihari Puraskar 2020 to be awarded to Mohankrishna Bohara

Mohankrishna Bohara will be awarded the 30th Bihari Puraskar Award for his Book ‘Taslima:
Sangharsh aur Sahitya’. The Bihari Puraskar is one of the three literary awards instituted by the KK
Birla Foundation in 1991.The award is given every year for an outstanding work published in the last
10 years by a Rajasthani author in Hindi or Rajasthani.
Govt conferred Gandhi Peace Prize 2020 to Sheikh Mujibur Rehman and for 2019 to Sultan
Qaboos bin Said Al Said
The Union government conferred Gandhi Peace Prize to the Late Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said of
Oman for the year 2019 to recognize his outstanding contributions for social, economic and political

transformation through non-violent. Sheikh Mujibur Rahman the “Father of the Nation” of Bangladesh
conferred with Gandhi peace prize 2020 for recognizing his fraternal relations between India and
Bangladesh and, promoting peace and non-violence in the Indian subcontinent. The Jury of Gandhi
Peace Prize is chaired by Prime Minister, Narendra Modi
SUMMITS, EVENTS & CONFERENCE

SUMMITS
SUMMITS VENUE KEY POINTS
India-Sweden Virtual Virtual Mode On March 5, 2021, a Virtual Summit was held between the
Summit 2021 Prime Minister (PMs) of India Narendra Modi & Prime
Minister of the Kingdom of Sweden, Stefan Lofven.This is
the Fifth Interaction between the two PMs since 2015.The
key areas of discussion were Healthcare, Biotech, Smart
Cities, Smart Grid, Circular Economy & Artificial
Intelligence (AI). They welcomed the creation of a
Sweden-India Health Hub at AIIMS-Jodhpur, Rajasthan.
FICCI Higher Education Virtual Mode Union Minister of Education, Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’
Summit 2021 addressed the inaugural session of the 16th Federation of
Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) Higher
Education Summit 2021. On the occasion he also released
the FICCI EY Report titled “Higher Education in India:
2040”. The Summit is being organised virtually by
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and
Industry(FICCI) in collaboration with Ministry of
Education and Ministry of Commerce and Industry. The
theme of the summit is ‘‘Higher Education @ 2030: R.I.S.E.
– Resilience. Innovation. Sustainability. Enterprise.’
Merchant Digitization On March 2, 2021, the Government of India (GoI),
Summit 2021 Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry
(FICCI), and United Nations (UN) based Better Than Cash
Alliance hosted ‘Merchant Digitization Summit 2021:
- Towards AatmaNirbhar (Self Reliance) Bharat with
special focus on Himalayan Regions, North East Regions
and Aspirational Districts of India’.It was a part of the
series of Learning Exchange amongst all States and Union
Territories.It was organized with technical assistance
from Intellecap.
Maritime India Summit- Virtual Mode Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the
2021 (MIS-2021) 2nd Edition of Maritime India Summit-2021 (MIS-2021)-
“Exploring the potential business opportunities in Indian
Maritime sector and making Aatmanirbhar Bharat”. The
Maritime summit is being held from March 2-4, 2021 in a
virtual format. On the sidelines of the MIS-2021, Chabahar
day was commemorated on March 4, 2021. The event is
organized by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways
(MoPSW).
PM Modi launched the e-plaque of ‘Sagar-Manthan’:
Mercantile Maritime Domain Awareness Centre (MM-

DAC). During the event, PM Modi released a new e-book
titled ‘Maritime India Vision-2030’.
First-ever Leader-Level Virtual Mode On March 12 2021, The First-ever Leader-Level Summit of
Summit of 4 QUAD 4 QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) countries –
countries India, Japan, USA & Australia took place virtually. Indian
Prime Minister Narendra Modi, US President Joseph
Biden, Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison and
Japan Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga. The 4 Countries
agreed to work towards an ‘open’ & ‘free’ Indo-Pacific
region.
India-Finland Virtual Virtual Mode On March 16, 2021, India-Finland Virtual Summit 2021
Summit 2021 was held between India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi
& Finland’s Prime Minister Sanna Marin.
India & Finland had announced a new partnership in the
fields of ICT, Mobile Technology, Digital Education clean
energy investment and evolution of 6G.
The two sides agreed to focus on 3 key domains namely
Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity & Blockchain
Technologies.
The Two sides are also set to sign an renewed
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between a
consortium of 10 Finnish Universities & 23 IITs in India
for cooperation in Higher Education Sector. Click here
India TB Summit 2021 Virtual Mode On 20th March,2021, Union Health Minister Dr. Harsh
Vardhan virtually addressed the India TB Summit
2021.The theme for the summit is “Reimagining TB Care
in India”. The Summit was organized by Survivors Against
TB & Pi Consulting & hosted in partnership with The
Indian Express. Note – World TB Day is observed on 24th
March, 2021.Target- India targets to eradicate
Tuberculosis by 2025, five years ahead of United Nations
(UN) Sustainable Development Goals target – 2030.
Annual Summit of Virtual Mode Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare, Dr Harsh
‘NATHEALTH’ Vardhan virtually addressed the 7th Annual Summit of
‘NATHEALTH’ organized by NATHEALTH – Healthcare
Federation of India which was held between March 25-26,
2021 in a virtual format.Theme of 2021 Annual Summit –
‘Indian Health System Expansion in Post-COVID
Era’.Objective - discussion about to realize the potential of
Indian healthcare sector to attract investments for
building a modern 21st Century Universal Healthcare
delivery mode.
EVENTS
EVENTS VENUE KEY POINTS
Global Bio-India 2021 New Delhi A 3-day long 2nd edition of Global Bio-India 2021
was held virtually from New Delhi on March 1-3,
2021 which was inaugurated by Union Minister Dr
Harsh Vardhan, Ministry of Science & Technology.
The theme of the event was ‘Transforming

lives’ with the tagline ‘Biosciences to Bio-economy’.
Union Minister Nirmala Sitharaman, Ministry of
Finance addressed the inaugural session as a special
guest.
The Biotechnology sector is recognized as one of the
key drivers for India to achieve its USD 5 trillion
targets by 2024. Indian Biotechnology industry’s
economy is valued at $70 billion in 2020 is expected
to grow to USD 150 Bn by 2025.
Asia Economic Dialogue (AED) Virtual Mode On February 26-28, 2021, the 5th Asia Economic
2021 Dialogue (AED) 2021 was virtually convened by the
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India and Pune
International Centre (PIC) on the theme "Post Covid-
19 Global Trade and Finance Dynamics".Its
inaugural session was addressed by Union Minister
Dr. Subrahmanyam Jaishankar, MEA on "Resilient
Global Growth in a Post-Pandemic World".The
former Indian Ambassador to China, Pakistan and
Bhutan, Mr. Gautam Bambawale is the Convenor of
AED 2021.
1st Strategic and Counter New Delhi The first Strategic and Counter Terrorism Dialogue
Terrorism Dialogue between India between India and Nigeria was held from 4th March
and Nigeria 2021 to 5th March 2021. The National Security
Adviser of Nigeria Major General (Retd.) Babagana
Monguno visited New Delhi, India at the invitation
of National Security Adviser of India Ajit K Doval KC
for the discussion. The discussions were held within
the framework of close and strategic partnership
between India and Nigeria.
The India Toy Fair 2021 Virtual Mode The first ever ‘The India Toy Fair 2021’ was held
virtually on February 27, 2021 – March 2, 2021 on
the underlying themes of ‘Atmanirbhar (Self
Reliant) Bharat’ and ‘Vocal for Local’ to boost the
India toy manufacturing industry. It was
inaugurated by Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi
where he urged the manufacturers to use less
plastic and more recyclable material. The fair was in
the form of a digitally through the platform
https://theindiatoyfair.in. Hamleys, owned by
Reliance Retail, is the title sponsor of the toy fair.
ICOLD Symposium on Sustainable New Delhi In February 2021, a 4 day long International
Development of Dams & River Commission on Large Dams (ICOLD) Symposium on
Basins Sustainable Development of Dams & River Basins
was held in hybrid format in New Delhi. Minister for
Jal Shakti, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat was the Chief
Guest of the Event. The event acts as a forum to
share expertise on latest technologies in Dam
construction, dam safety measure etc. Advanced
technologies can be implemented in Dams to
generate clean and cost-effective energy, thereby

ensuring India’s commitments to the Paris Climate
Agreement.
Agartala International Book Fair Agartala, Chief Minister Biplab Kumar Deb inaugurated the
Tripura 39th Agartala International Book Fair held with the
theme “Ek Tripura, Shrestha Tripura” at Agartala,
Tripura in the presence of Bangladesh Assistant
High Commissioner Md. Jobayed Hossain.
India Telecom 2021 Virtual Mode On 3rd March 2021, Sanjay Shamrao Dhotre,
Minister of State, Ministry of Communication
inaugurated the virtual “India Telecom 2021”, an
Exclusive international business expo organised by
Telecom Equipment Export Promotion
Council(TEPC). India Telecom 2021 was organised
under the Market Access Initiative Scheme (MAI) of
Department of Commerce, Government of India. The
expo was supported by the Department of
Telecommunications and Ministry of External
Affairs(MEA).
New Delhi World Book Fair 2021 Virtual Mode Union Education Minister, Ramesh Pokhriyal
‘Nishank’ inaugurated the 29th Edition of New Delhi
World Book Fair 2021 – Virtual Edition. The fair was
held from March 6-9, 2021. The theme of the book
fair was ‘National Education Policy-2020’. The New
Delhi World Book Fair is organized by the National
Book Trust. The event saw participation of people
from 15 countries including the UK, and US, UAE,
China, France, Iran, Nepal, Spain, Sri Lanka, Ukraine,
and Italy.
CONFERENCE
CONFERENCE VENUE KEY POINTS
India Pharma 2021 & The four-day long 6th edition of International Conference on
India Medical Device Pharmaceutical & Medical Device sector i.e. India Pharma
2021 2021 & India Medical Device 2021 was held on Feb 25-26,
2021 and March 1-2, 2021 respectively. It was inaugurated
by Union Minister Devaragunda Venkappa Sadananda
-
Gowda, Ministry of Chemicals and Fertilizers (MoC&F). The
special focus of this edition was Global Investors Meet by
Invest India. The theme for India Medical Device 2021 was
‘India MedTech Future: Innovate & Make in India through
Global’.The theme for India Pharma 2021 was ‘Indian
Pharma Industry: Future is Now’.
Multifunctional Virtual Mode On 8th March, 2021 Sanjay Dhotre, Minister of State (MoS)
Electronic Materials & for Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
Processing (MEMP (MeitY) virtually inaugurated the 3-day International
2021) Conference on Multifunctional Electronic Materials &
Processing (MEMP 2021) at Pune, Maharashtra. MEMP-2021
was organised by the Centre for Materials for Electronics
Technology (C-MET), Pune.He highlighted on the rise of

India’s share in global electronics manufacturing for 1.3% in
2012 to 3.6% in 2019.
Annual Conference of Virtual Mode PM Narendra Modi addressed the 3rd Edition of the Annual
ICDRI 2021 Conference of International Conference on Disaster Resilient
Infrastructure 2021 (ICDRI 2021) to strengthen the global
discourses on disaster and climate-resilient infrastructure.
The Conference took place virtually and was hosted by
Coalition for Disaster Resilient Infrastructure (CDRI). The US
announced funds of up to USD 9.2 Million for supporting
CDRI.
COMMITTEES & MEETINGS

COMMITTEES
COMMITTEE NAME COMMITTEE HEAD KEY NOTES
National Committee Narendra Modi Government of India constituted a National
Committee headed by Prime Minister Narendra
Modi to commemorate the 75 years of
Independence day which falls on 15th August 2022.
The day will be commemorated at national and
international level in the form of Azadi Ka Amrit
Mahotsav. The celebration of the 75 years will be
launched on 12th March 2022. PM Modi will also
flag off a Padyatra from Sabarmati to Dandi
memorial which will culminate on 5th April 2022.
Expert Advisory H K Mittal Government of India has constituted an expert
Committee advisory committee to execute and monitor the
Startup India Seed Fund Scheme(SISFS). The
committee will be chaired by H K Mittal from the
Department of Science and Technology.The total
investment of the scheme, Rs.945 core will be
divided over next 4 years for providing seed
funding to eligible startups through eligible
incubators across India.
Empowerment Piyush Goyal Central Govt. of India has notified to set-up an
Committee Empowerment Committee to discuss, to facilitate
investments and enhance manufacturing of
products in High technology including
semiconductors in India. The 10-member
committee will be headed by the Minister of
Commerce and Industry(At present – Piyush
Goyal).The committee will be serviced by
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal
Trade (DPIIT).

MEETINGS
MEETING NAME VENUE KEY POINTS
First Meeting of BRICS CGETI Under the chairship of India, the First Meeting of
BRICS (Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa)
Contact Group on Economic and Trade Issues
- (CGETI) was held from 9th March 2021 to 11th
March 2021. This is 26th Meeting of BRICS
CGETI.2021 theme of the BRICS is “BRICS@15: Intra
BRICS Cooperation for Continuity, Consolidation,
and Consensus”.
India-Brazil-South Africa(IBSA) Virtual Mode 6th India-Brazil-South Africa(IBSA) Women’s Forum
Women’s Forum meeting meeting was virtually held on 16th March 2021. The
meeting was chaired by Smriti Zubin Irani, Union
Minister, Ministry of Women and Child
Development, Government of India. India, Brazil and
South Africa shared their best practices & reiterated
commitment towards enhancing mutual
cooperation in bridging gender gaps.
Review Meeting Virtual Mode 4th Review Meeting held virtually between
Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal
Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry
of India and the Japan Patent Office (JPO), Ministry
of Economy, Trade and Industry(METI) of Japan
under Memorandum of Cooperation (MoC) on
Industrial Property signed in 2015.As part of the
successful MOC , in 2019, the JPO became the first
Intellectual Property (IP) office in the world to start
the Patent Prosecution Highway (PPH) Pilot
Program with India.
Meeting of Permanent Indus New Delhi India & Pakistan held the 116th Meeting of
Commission (PIC) Permanent Indus Commission (PIC) under the Indus
Waters Treaty (IWT) at New Delhi from March 23-
24, 2021. The Indian side was led by Pradeep Kumar
Saxena, India’s commissioner for IWT & advisors
from Central Water Commission, the Central
Electricity Authority and the National Hydroelectric
Power Corporation.The Pakistan side was led by
Syed Muhammad Meher Ali Shah, Pakistan’s
commissioner for IWT.The last meeting between the
two sides under IWT took place in Lahore in August,
2018.
COMMITTEES & MEETING IN CONTENT FORMAT

Government forms 11 Committees to drive India to a Circular Economy
In order to expedite the transition of India from a Linear Economy to a Circular Economy, Government
has formed 11 Committees in 11 focus areas. The committees will be led by the concerned Line ministry
and will comprise officials from MoEFCC (Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change) & NITI
Aayog, domain experts, academics and industry representatives. The committees will prepare action
plans for transition to Circular Economy in respective focus areas. Circular Economy is a model of
production & consumption which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing & recycling

existing materials and products as long as possible.It intends to change the Linear Economy Model of
‘Take-Make-Dispose’…Click here to know about 11 focus areas
Government reconstitutes Advisory Committee for Studying Sarasvati River under the Chair of
Prahlad Singh Patel
The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) released a notification stating that it has reconstituted an
Advisory Committee for Multidisciplinary Study of the River Sarasvati (also known as Ghaggar-Hakra
River).It will be headed by Union Minister for Culture (Currently- Prahlad Singh Patel).It has been
reconstituted for the next two years (2021-23), after the earlier term’s panel ended in 2019 (it was
constituted in 2017). The committee will review the work done by the previous panel and then
formulate a plan.
INDEX
RANKING
INDEX / SURVEY RELEASED BY / KEY NOTES
NAME CONDUCTED BY
NCAER Land Record and NCAER with support In accordance with the 2nd edition of NCAER Land
Services Index (N-LRSI) from Omidyar Network Record and Services Index (N-LRSI) 2021, almost 32
2021 India States and Union Territories (UTs) have shown an
improvement in their effort to digitise land records.
Their mean has shown an increase of 16.6% in 2020-
21 from 38.7 in 2019-20 to 45.1 in 2020-21 (out of
100 points). Notably, Madhya Pradesh topped the
list for the second year in a row and followed by
West Bengal (2nd), Odisha (3rd), Maharashtra (4th)
and Tamil Nadu (5th).
Top 3 State:
1. Madhya Pradesh with 80.2 score
2. West Bengal with 78.5 score
3. Odisha with 77.2 Score Click here
Ease of Living Index Hardeep Singh Puri On February 4, 2021, Hardeep Singh Puri, Minister
(EoLI) 2020 & Municipal of State (Independent Charge) for the Ministry of
Performance Index Housing & Urban Affairs (MoHUA) released the Final
(MPI) 2020 Rankings of Ease of Living Index (EoLI) 2020 &
Municipal Performance Index (MPI) 2020 through
an online event. For the purpose of ranking, both
EoLI 2020 & MLI 2020 categorized the rankings of
Cities (including cities under Smart Cities Program)
& Municipalities under 2 categories based on their
population – Million+ Category & Less than Million
Category.
Ease of Living Index 2020: Population – Million+
Category Top 3 City
1. Bengaluru
2. Pune
3. Ahmedabad

Municipal Performance Index 2020: Population –
Million+ Category Top 3 Municipality
1. Indore
2. Surat
3. Bhopal Click here
State of India’s Down to Earth Magazine India => 117th Rank
Environment 2021 (SoE According to the State of India’s Environment 2021
2021) Annual report (SoE 2021) Annual report released by Down to Earth
Magazine in association with Centre for Science &
Environment (CSE), India is set to begin a ‘pandemic
generation’ as 375 million children (0–14-year-olds)
may suffer long-lasting impacts such as underweight,
stunting & increased child mortality, to losses in
education & work productivity due to pandemic.
India was ranked 117 out of 192 nations in terms of
sustainable development behind all South Asian
countries except Pakistan. Click here
World University QS (Quacquarelli On March 4, 2021, the unveiling of QS (Quacquarelli
Rankings 2021 Symonds) Symonds) World University Rankings by Subject
2021 was held virtually which was addressed by
Union Minister Ramesh Pokhriyal ‘Nishank’, Ministry
of Education (MoE). Notably, the number of Indian
Institutions in the list of top 100 has increased to 12
from 8. These are IIT Bombay, IIT Delhi, IIT Madras,
IIT Kharagpur, IISC Bangalore, IIT Guwahati, IIM
Bangalore, IIM Ahmedabad, JNU, Anna University,
University of Delhi, and O.P Jindal University. The O
P Jindal Global University is the only private
university to have entered the top-100 club. Click
here
Freedom in the World US based Think Tank India => Score 67 with Status “Party Free”
2021: Democracy under Freedom House According to the ‘Freedom in the World 2021:
Siege Democracy under Siege’ released by US based Think
Tank Freedom House, India has scored 67 and its
position has been downgraded to ‘Partly Free’ from
‘Free’ in 2020. India’s ranking has also fallen to 88
(from 83) out of 211 countries. The ‘most free
countries’ with a score of 100 are Finland, Norway &
Sweden. Least Free Countries with a score of 1 are
Tibet & Syria. This is the 1st time since 1997 that
India has been downgraded to ‘partly free’. India’s
score has decreased from 71 (in 2020). Click here
Hurun Global Rich List Hurun Report According to Hurun Global Rich List 2021, Chairman
2021 of Reliance Industries (RIL), Mukesh Ambani with a
wealth of USD 83 Billion (~ INR 6 Lakh Crore)
became the 8th Richest Person in the World. The List
was topped by Elon Musk (CEO of Tesla), Jeff Bezos
(CEO of Amazon) & Bernard Arnault (CEO of LVMH-
Louis Vuitton).In the Hurun Global Rich List 2020,
Mukesh Ambani was ranked 9th. Elon Musk took the

number 1 spot for the 1st time and at the age of 49
years is the youngest to take the No.1 spot.
Top 3 Rank:
1. Elon Musk
2. Jeff Bezos
3. Bernard Arnault Click here
Technology and UNCTAD In accordance with the new country-readiness index
Innovation Report 2021 released by the United Nations Conference on Trade
and Development (UNCTAD) in its ‘Technology and
Innovation Report 2021’, India is the biggest over
performer in frontier technologies than it’s per
capita gross domestic products (GDP) among 158
countries. The index ranked India at 43 while the
estimated one based on per capita income was 108.
This meant that India over performed other
countries by 65 ranking positions (difference
between index rank and and the estimated index
rankings based on per capita income). India was
followed by the Philippines, which over performed
by 57 ranking positions.
Top 3 over performing countries relative to per
capita GDP:
1. India
2. Philippines
2. Ukraine Click here
UNCTAD B2C E- UNCTAD India => 71st Rank
COMMERCE INDEX 2020 In accordance with the ‘UNCTAD B2C E-COMMERCE
INDEX 2020- Spotlight on Latin America and the
Caribbean’, India ranked 71 out of 152 countries as
compared to 75th position in 2019. The index
measures an economy’s preparedness to support
online shopping where B2C stands for Business to
Consumer. UNCTAD is an acronym for United
Nations Conference on Trade and Development. The
index has been topped by Switzerland for the first
time which has surpassed the Netherland. On the
regional front of East, South & Southeast Asia, India
ranked at 10th position which has been topped by
Singapore.
Top 3 Country:
1. Switzerland
2. Netherlands
3. Denmark Click here
2021 Index of Economic The Heritage Foundation India => 121st Rank
Freedom India with a score of 56.5 was ranked 121 (category
– ‘Mostly Unfree’) in the ‘2021 Index of Economic
Freedom’ (27th Annual Edition) released by The
Heritage Foundation. Singapore topped the list for
the 2nd time in a row followed by New Zealand &
Australia. For the 1st time, The Heritage Foundation

has excluded Hong Kong from its rankings. Hong
Kong had topped the Index for 25 out of 27 years
(1995-2019). Overall, the Global Economy remains
‘Moderately Free’ in the 2021 Index.
Top 3 Country:
1. Singapore
2. New Zealand
3. Australia Click here
Annual Global CEO PwC’s India => 5th Rank
Survey (PricewaterhouseCoopers) According to PwC’s (PricewaterhouseCoopers) 24th
Annual Global CEO Survey, India emerged as the 5th
most attractive growth destination in the world. India
has slipped one position to 5th, after being surpassed
by the United Kingdom which took the 4th Position.
The USA emerged as the Number one market
favoured by CEOs over the next 1 year followed by
China, Germany.
Top 3 Country:
1. USA
2. China
3. Germany Click here
JLL Human Performance JLL’s (Jones Lang According to JLL’s (Jones Lang LaSalle)’s Human
Indicator (HPI) Index LaSalle)’s Performance Indicator (HPI) Index, India ranked
highest in workplace satisfaction at 98 percent
followed by China at 97 percent. As per the report,
India leads other Asia-Pacific (APAC) countries with
81 per cent of high performers practising flexible
working, including flexible hours and work-from-
home. The Key Factors impacting workplace
satisfaction in high performers are wider range of
sophisticated workplaces and technologies.
Trade Data Reuters According to trade data released by Reuters, the
United States surpassed Saudi Arabia as India’s 2nd
Biggest Oil Supply in February, 2021. Iraq continues
to be India’s Largest supplier despite a 23% decline
in purchases to a five-month low of 867, 500 BPD
(Barrels Per Day). India’s imports from America
increased to 48% to a record 545, 300 BPD in
February, 2021 accounting for 14% of India’s overall
imports last month. India is World’s Third Largest
Oil Importer & Consumer (after USA, China). Click
here
Wealth Report 2020 Hurun India Maharashtra ranked first in the state wise
distribution of High Net-worth Individual(HNI)
households with 56,000-dollar millionaire
households. It was followed by Uttar Pradesh, Tamil
Nadu, Karnataka and Gujarat. City-wise distribution:
Mumbai is home to most millionaires followed by
Delhi, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Chennai. Millionaire

Household is a household having an annual income
of more than USD 1 million. Click here
2020 World Air Quality IQAir According to the ‘2020 World Air Quality Report’
Report released by IQAir (Swiss Air Technology Company),
India was the 3rd Most Polluted Country in the World
in 2020 after Bangladesh & Pakistan. Delhi was the
most polluted Capital City for the 3rd consecutive
time it was followed by Dhaka (Bangladesh) &
Ulaanbaatar (Mongolia). In the case of World’s most
polluted cities, Hotan of China came first followed by
India’s Ghaziabad (Uttar Pradesh) & Bulandshahr
(Uttar Pradesh).
Top 3 Most Polluted Countries in 2020:
1. Bangladesh with PM value 77.1
2. Pakistan with PM value 59.0
3. India with PM value 51.9
World’s Most Dangerous International driver According to the Study conducted by International
Roads study education company, driver education company, Zutobi, South Africa was
Zutobi ranked 1st in the World’s Most Dangerous Roads
study, it was followed by Thailand. United States
ranked 3rd.India was ranked 4th in the study. The
Study was conducted among 56 Countries. Similarly,
The Study states that, Norway has the World’s Safest
Road & topped in the study in World’s Safest Roads, it
is followed by Japan in the 2nd place & Sweden in 3rd
Place.
World Happiness Report United Nations India => 139th Rank
2021 Sustainable Development India with a score of 3.819 has been ranked 139 out
Solutions Network of 149 countries in the ‘World Happiness Report
2021’ a publication of United Nations Sustainable
Development Solutions Network. The rankings were
topped by Finland (tops for the 4th time). This is the
9th World Happiness Report and is based on surveys
conducted during the time period of 2018-20.
It ranks the world’s 149 countries on “how happy
their citizens perceive themselves to be”. Apart from
Afghanistan (149), all neighbouring countries ranked
higher than India.
Top 3 Country Based on Past 3 years (2018-
2020):
1. Finland
2. Denmark
3. Switzerland Click here
Ultimate Military Military Direct India => 4th Rank
Strength Index According to a study ‘Ultimate Military Strength
Index’ by Defence Website ‘Military Direct’, India
with 61 Points is the 4th Strongest Military Force in
the World. China (82 Points) was topped followed by
the USA (74) & Russia (69). The index considers
factors like – Budgets, number of inactive & active

military personnel, total air, sea, land and nuclear
resources, average salaries & weight of equipment.
World’s Biggest Military Spender – USA (USD 732
Billion per year) followed by China (USD 261 Billion)
& India (USD 71 Billion).
Top 3 Country:
1. China
2. USA
3. Russia Click here
International US Chamber of Commerce India => 40th Rank
Intellectual Property (IP) Global Innovation Policy India with a score of 38.40% has been ranked 40th
Index : Recovery through Centre out of 53 Global Economies in the 9th Edition of the
Ingenuity 2021 ‘International Intellectual Property (IP) Index :
Recovery through Ingenuity 2021’ released by US
Chamber of Commerce Global Innovation Policy
Centre (GIPC). USA, UK & Germany topped the
Index.In the 8th Edition India Scored 38.46%.So there
is a decline of 0.06% from Previous Year. The report
states that the overall global IP environment has
improved in 2020, with 32 out of 53 Countries
recording positive improvements in their score.
Top 3 Country:
1. USA
2. UK
3. Germany Click here
REPORTS
REPORT NAME SUBMITTED BY KEY NOTES
World Report on Hearing WHO World Health Organization (WHO) released its
first World Report on Hearing stating that
nearly 2.5 billion people worldwide or 1 in 4
people will suffer from hearing problems by
2050. At present one in five people worldwide
have hearing problems. If the issue is not
properly addressed, there will be a loss of
trillion US dollars every year.
Pictorial guidebook on Prevent Released by Harsh On 3rd March 2021, as a part of the World
Hearing Loss Vardhan Hearing Day, Harsh Vardhan, Union Minister
of Health and Family Welfare, released the
report related to hearing loss prepared by
Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) –
All India Institute of Medical Sciences(AIIMS)
ICMR-AIIMS with the Pictorial guidebook on
‘Prevent Hearing Loss’ prepared by
Directorate General of Health Services(DGHS)-
Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education &
Research(PGIMER). As a part of the event,
Minister virtually inaugurated the six new
Outreach Service Centres for Communication

Disorders by the All-India Institute of Speech
and Hearing (AIISH), Mysuru, Karnataka.
Education Budgets World Bank In accordance with the report by World Bank
headquartered at Washington, D.C., United
States, the low and lower-middle income
countries have cut the education budgets by
65% after COVID-19 pandemic despite the
urgent need for adequate funding to allow
school systems to reopen safely and to fund
programs to make up for the losses in learning
students experienced while schools were
closed.33% of high and upper-middle income
countries also followed the same scenario.
Food Waste Index Report 2021 UNEP & WRAP According to ‘Food Waste Index Report 2021’
compiled by the United Nations Environment
Programme (UNEP) & WRAP (Waste &
Resources Action Programme) found that
around 931 Million Tonnes (1.03 Billion Tons)
of Food waste was generated in 2019. It equals
to 17% of food produced globally. 61% of this
waste was generated by households, 26%
from food service & 13% from retail. At the
Global level, 74Kg per capita of food is wasted
each year. The 2015 Sustainable Development
Goal (SDG) 12.3 aims to halve food waste &
reduce food loss by 2030.
Education: From disruption to UNICEF According to report titled “Education: From
recovery disruption to recovery” released by UNICEF
(United Nations International Children’s
Emergency Fund), the closure of 1.5 Million
schools due to pandemic. The lockdown in
2020 has impacted 247 Million Children
enrolled in elementary & secondary schools in
India. Globally around 888 Million children
continue to face disruptions to their education
due to full & partial school closures. The
report also states that Online education is not
feasible as only 1 in 4 children have access to
digital devices & Internet connectivity.
Global Climate Emergency UNFCCC UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres has
stated 2021 is a ‘make or break year’ to
confront the global climate emergency. The
UN Framework Convention on Climate Change
(UNFCCC) has released the Initial NDC
(Nationally Determined Contributions)
Synthesis Report which measures the progress
of Climate Action Plans of Countries under the
Paris Agreement.The report states that the
efforts put in by countries are not enough to
limit Global Temperature rise to 1.5 degrees

Celsius or to meet the goals of the Paris
Agreement.
In order to achieve the targets, countries must
cut global emission by 45% by 2030 from
2010 levels.
Report on Currency and Finance Reserve Bank of India In accordance with the internal report from
(RCF) for the year 2020-21 (RBI) the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) namely
‘Report on Currency and Finance (RCF) for the
year 2020-21″ on the theme “Reviewing the
Monetary Policy Framework”, India’s medium-
term inflation target of 4% with a +/-2 %
tolerance band is appropriate for the country.
This is in lieu of the RBI’s flexible inflation
targeting (FIT) mandate. The period of study
in this report is from October 2016 to March
2020.
Gender Inequality Bank of America According to a report compiled by the
(BofA) economists of Bank of America (BofA), Gender
inequality has cost the world USD 70 Trillion
since 1990. It also states that it would take a
minimum of 257 years to bridge the gender
gap.The Loss of Human Capital Wealth due to
Gender Inequality is estimated at USD 160.2
Trillion.If all countries become gender-equal,
the global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) will
increase by up to USD 28 Trillion by 2025.
The Opportunity Index 2021 LinkedIn In January 2021, LinkedIn surveyed 10,000
working women in the Asia Pacific region and
released “The Opportunity Index 2021”, which
revealed that 85% of Indian women felt
missed out of Salary hike or promotion
because of their gender, while the number
stands at 60% in Asia Pacific region. However,
66% felt that gender equality has improved
from the time of their parents. Shockingly 9 of
10 women revealed that they were negatively
impacted by the pandemic.
Mobilising Finance for EVs in NITI Aayog along with NITI Aayog along with Rocky Mountain
India Report Rocky Mountain Institute (RMI) India released the ‘Mobilising
Institute (RMI) India Finance for EVs in India: A Toolkit of Solutions
to Mitigate Risks and Address Market Barriers’
report. The report analyses the risk & market
barriers involved in transforming India’s
Electric Vehicle (EV) Sector and provides
Target Instruments to overcome the hurdles.
Indian EV market size to be of USD 50 billion
(Rs 3.7 lakh crore) by 2030, which is
equivalent to 80% of the current market size
of India’s retail vehicle Finance Industry at
USD 60 billion (Rs 4.5 lakh crore).

India FinTech: A USD 100 Bn BCG & FICCI According to the report ‘India FinTech: A USD
Opportunity 100 Bn Opportunity’ released by Boston
Consulting Group (BCG) & Federation of
Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry
(FICCI), India’s Fintech Sector is expected to
reach a valuation of USD 150-160 Billion by
2025.The USD 150-160 Billion valuation will
help in translating to an incremental value-
creation potential of about USD 100 Billion. In
order to meet the USD 150-160 Billion
valuation by 2025, India’s fintech sector will
need investments of up to USD 20-25 Billion
over the next five years (2021-25).
Unlocking APAC’s Digital Amazon Web Service On 25th February 2021, the Amazon Web
Potential: Changing Digital Skill Service released a survey report titled
Needs and Policy Approaches “Unlocking APAC’s Digital Potential: Changing
Digital Skill Needs and Policy Approaches”.
The report states that the present workforce
of India comprises only 12% of digitally skilled
employees and the Digitally skilled workforce
of India has to increase to 9-fold by 2025.The
report was prepared by Alpha Beta, a strategy,
and economic consulting firm and
commissioned by AWS.
COVID-19: A threat to progress UNICEF According to the ‘COVID-19: A threat to
against Child Marriage progress against Child Marriage’ report
compiled by UNICEF (United Nations
International Children’s Emergency Fund)
COVID-19 impact could result in additional 10
Million Child Marriages in the next decade
(2020-30). The report states that around 650
Million Girls & Women who are alive today
were married in childhood. Half of such Girls &
Women counts are in Bangladesh, Brazil,
Ethiopia, India and Nigeria. The United
Nations Sustainable Development Goals has
set a target to end Child Marriage by 2030.
Connecting to Thrive: Challenges World Bank As per the recent report titled “Connecting to
and Opportunities of Transport Thrive: Challenges and Opportunities of
Integration in Eastern South Asia Transport Integration in Eastern South Asia”
released by World Bank, India and Bangladesh
have the potential to increase their national
Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by 8% in India
in particular road connectivity and 17% in
Bangladesh with seamless transport
connectivity between two countries.Also
report suggested Bangladesh, Bhutan, India &
Nepal (BBIN) eastern sub-region countries
became an economic growth pole for South
Asia.

Autocratization Turns Viral: Swedish-based V-Dem According to the 5th Annual report
Democracy Report 2021 (Varieties of ‘Autocratization Turns Viral: Democracy
Democracy) Institute Report 2021’ released by Swedish-based V-
Dem (Varieties of Democracy) Institute,
India’s regime type has turned into ‘Electoral
Autocracy’ in 2020 from ‘Electoral Democracy’
in 2010. Hungary & Turkey have also been
demoted as ‘Electoral Autocracy’. India has
registered a 23%-point drop on the Liberal
Democracy Index (LDI) scale marking one of
the most dramatic shifts among all countries
in the world over the past 10 years. Based on
the LDI Index, the top 3 democratic countries
in the world are Denmark, Sweden & Norway.
ADB’s Support for the Sustainable Asian Development Asian Development Bank(ADB)’s report titled
Development Goals: Enabling the Bank(ADB) “ADB’s Support for the Sustainable
2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development Goals: Enabling the 2030
Development through Strategy Agenda for Sustainable Development through
2030 Strategy 2030” states that, a renewed focus on
achieving Sustainable Development Goals
(SDGs) will be essential as countries seek to
rebuild from the Covid-19 pandemic. The
report also highlights ADB projects and
programs that help countries achieve the
SDGs.
SIPRI Report SIPRI According to a report by Stockholm
International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI),
India’s import of arms decreased by 33%
between 2011-15 and 2016-20 due to its
increased push for ‘Make-in-India’ initiative
and other measures to boost the domestic
defence industry. The most affected country
due to decline in India’s imports was Russia.It
was followed by USA. India’s Top 3 Arms
suppliers during 2016-20 were Russia (49%
imports), France (18%) & Israel (13%).
Asia and the Pacific SDG Progress UN-ESCAP On 16th March, 2021, United Nations-
Report, 2021 Economic and Social Commission for Asia and
the Pacific (ESCAP)’s report titled “Asia and
the Pacific SDG Progress Report, 2021” states,
Asia-Pacific region may achieve just 10%
targets of sustainable development
goals(SDGs) by 2030. (i.e.) Only nine out of
140 measurable targets of the SDG will be
achieved by 2030. Globally, Asia-Pacific region
is too slow in achieving the half of the SDG
goals and many SDG’s were achieved at levels
well below the 2020 Target.

State of the World’s Indigenous United Nations(UN) On 15th and 16th March 2021, the United
Peoples (SOWIP) Department of Nations(UN) Department of Economic and
Economic and Social Social Affairs(DESA) released the State of the
Affairs(DESA) World’s Indigenous Peoples (SOWIP) volume
V entitled “Rights to Lands, Territories and
Resources”. The report examines challenges
faced by the indigenous people in asserting
their rights to lands, in the context of
agribusiness, extractive industries,
development, conservation and tourism.The
preparation of the report was overseen by the
Secretariat of the Permanent Forum on
Indigenous Issues.
Violence Against Women WHO On 9th March 2021, the World Health
Prevalence Estimates, 2018 Organization(WHO) has launched a report
titled “Violence Against Women Prevalence
Estimates, 2018”. The report was based on the
WHO’s largest study on the prevalence of
violence against women. The study conducted
by WHO on behalf of The United Nations Inter-
Agency Working Group on Violence Against
Women Estimation and Data (VAW-IAWGED)
states that around 736 million to 852 million
women across the globe i.e., 1 in 3 women
have faced physical or sexual violence at least
once in their lifetime.
Direct and indirect effects of UNICEF partnership UNICEF (United Nations International
COVID-19 pandemic and with WHO, UNFPA Children’s Emergency Fund) in partnership
response in South Asia with WHO, UNFPA (United Nations Population
Fund) has released a report called ‘Direct and
indirect effects of COVID-19 pandemic and
response in South Asia’. The report has
released estimates which anticipate that India
will record the largest increase of deaths
among children aged 5 years (15%) &
Maternal deaths (18%) among 6 South Asian
Countries in 2020 due to pandemic. The 6
South Asian Countries are Afghanistan,
Bangladesh, India, Nepal, Pakistan & Sri Lanka.
World Energy Transitions IRENA According to the report ‘World Energy
Outlook: 1.5° C Pathway Transitions Outlook: 1.5° C Pathway’ released
by International Renewable Energy Agency
(IRENA), the COVID-19 Crisis is an
opportunity for countries across the world to
disengage their economies from Fossil Fuels &
accelerate their shift to renewable energy
sources. The report was previewed at the
virtual Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue
(BETD 2021) which took place from March 16,
2021-March 17, 2021. The report states that

by 2050, 90% of total electricity needs will be
supplied by renewables, followed by 6% from
natural gas & remaining from nuclear.
Reimagining WASH:Water UNICEF According to the report ‘Reimagining
Security For All WASH:Water Security For All’ released by
UNICEF (United Nations Children’s Fund),
globally more than 1.42 Billion people,
including 450 million children live in areas of
high, or extremely high, water vulnerability.It
essentially means that globally, 1 in 5 children
worldwide do not have enough water to meet
their everyday needs. South Asia is home to
the largest number of children living in areas
of high or extremely high water vulnerability –
more than 155 Million children.The report is
part of UNICEF’s ‘Water Security for All’
initiative.
India Trend Book 2021 EY-IVCA According to a report ‘India Trend Book 2021’
released by EY-IVCA (Ernst Young-Indian
Private Equity & Venture Capital Association),
India’s e-commerce market is expected to be
worth USD 99 Billion by 2024. It is also
anticipated to grow at a 27% CAGR
(Compound Annual Growth Rate) over the
period 2019-24. India will have 220 million
online shoppers in India by 2025. The report
also states that by 2023, 1.2 % or USD 10.5
Billion of India’s grocery sales will be
online.Indian Government aims to build a USD
1 Trillion Digital economy by 2025 through
Digital India Programme.
India: Transforming to a net-zero TERI & Shell According to the report by ‘India:
emissions energy system Transforming to a net-zero emissions energy
system’ released by TERI (The Energy &
Resources Institute) & Shell (otherwise known
as Royal Dutch Shell plc), the Net Zero
emissions in energy system in India is
achievable by 2050.Amitabh Kant, CEO, NITI
Aayog released the report.The report
highlights the transformations needed by
India over the next 30 years for India to
achieve the goal.
Valuing Water United Nations According to the 2021 edition of the United
Nations World Water Development Report
(UN WWDR 2021) titled ‘Valuing Water’, Each
person on the planet may have to live on less
Water as per capita reservoir capacity is
decreasing. This report published by the
United Nations Educational, Scientific, and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO) on behalf of

UN-Water. The production of the report is
coordinated by UNESCO World Water
Assessment Programme(WWAP).
World Development Report 2021 World Bank Group According to the ‘World Development Report
: Data for better lives 2021: Data for better lives’ (WDR 2021)
released by World Bank Group, Most countries
across the globe shy away from an Open-data
policy. It states that only 11% low-income
countries made available a license classifiable
as ‘open’. The report has provided an
assessment of openness of data, by income
group. Click here
Global Wind Report 2021 Global Wind Energy According to ‘Global Wind Report 2021’
Council (GWEC) released by Global Wind Energy Council
(GWEC), India may miss its 2022 Renewable
Energy Capacity Targets (175 GW RE by 2022
– 100 GW Solar, 60 GW Wind, 10 GW Bio-
Energy, 5 GW Small Hydro) due to several
constraints. The constraints range from things
like Land Allocation, grid availability, the
recurring financial instability of DISCOMs
(Power Distribution Companies), tender
design & PPA (Power Purchase Agreement)
Sanctity and others.
RANKING & REPORTS IN CONTENT FORMAT

Lakshadweep, Budgam District declared TB Free;Himachal Pradesh tops State TBI Index 2021
On the occasion of World Tuberculosis Day on March 24, Union Minister for Health & Family Welfare
inaugurated the celebrations at Dr Ambedkar International Centre at Delhi. During the
event,Lakshadweep (UT) & District of Budgam (Jammu & Kashmir) were declared Tuberculosis (TB)
free.Himachal Pradesh achieved 1st Rank in India amongst the states with a population of more than 50
Lakhs, to end Tuberculosis under the National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP).India also
resolved to end Tuberculosis by 2025. Ending the TB epidemic by 2030 is among the health targets of
the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
COVID-19 pushes back India’s USD 5 Trillion GDP goal by 3 years to FY 2031-32-BofA Securities
Report
According to a Bank of America(BofA) Securities Report, COVID-19 pandemic is expected to delay
India’s ambitious target of becoming the 3rd Largest Economy by 3 years to FY 2031-32 from FY 29-
30.(i.e.Indian Government has set a target of becoming a USD 5 Trillion economy by 2030).The
pandemic has already shaved off 15.7% of India’s GDP from 2020.
ACQUISITION & MERGERS

Ashok Leyland to Buy the Stake of Nissan in Hinduja Tech for Rs.70.20 crore
Ashok Leyland, a Chennai-based commercial vehicle manufacturer owned by Hinduja Group, signed a
share purchase agreement with Nissan International Holdings BV, an investment arm of Nissan

Group(Japan) to acquire its 38% stake in Hinduja Tech Limited(HTL), a part of Hinduja Group for
Rs.70.20 crore.
RSBVL Acquired Majority Equity Stake in skyTran Inc for USD 26.76 Million
Reliance Strategic Business Ventures Limited (RSBVL), wholly owned subsidiary of Reliance Industries
Limited(RIL), has acquired additional equity shares in skyTran Inc., investee company of RIL for USD
26.76 Million (around Rs.196 crore).With this acquisition, the shareholdings of RSBVL in skyTran has
increased to 54.46% on a fully diluted basis.
Siemens Acquired 99.22% Stake In C&S Electric For Rs.2100 Crore

On 1st March 2021, Siemens Limited acquired the 99.22% equity stake in C&S Electric Limited, leading
manufacturer of electrical and electronic equipment, from its promoters for Rs.2100 crore on a cash
free or debt free basis.The Competition Commission of India (CCI) has approved the deal on 20th
August 2020.
Government of India to Sell 16% Stake in IRCON Through OFS to Raise Rs.662 Crore
Government of India planned to sell 16% stake or 7.52 crore shares in IRCON International Limited, a
government of India undertaking under the Ministry of Railways, through an Offer For Sale(OFS) on 3rd
March 2021 and 4th March 2021 to raise around Rs.662 crore. The floor price of the offer is fixed at
Rs.88 per share, which is 10% less than the closing price of 2nd March 2021(Rs.97.85).
BPCL to Sell its 61.65% Stake in Numaligarh Refinery Ltd for Rs 9875.96 Crore
On 1nd March 2021, the board of Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) approved to sell its
61.65% stake in Numaligarh Refinery Ltd (NRL) to a consortium of Oil India, Engineers India Ltd (EIL)
and Government of Assam for Rs. 9875.96 crore.The proceeds from the stake sale will be used to buy
out 36.62% Oman Oil Stakes in Bina refinery for Rs. 2,399.26 crore, pay capital gains tax and pay a
special dividend to shareholders.
Indian Bank to divest its Stake in ASREC (India) for Asset Monetization
Indian Bank is all set to divest full or partial in joint venture entity ASREC (India) Ltd as part of asset
monetisation. This decision has been taken by the board of directors (BoDs) of the bank during a
meeting held on March 5, 2021. Currently, the bank holds a 38.26% stake in ASREC (India) Ltd.ASREC
acquires non-performing assets (NPAs) from the banks/financial institutions at mutually agreed prices
to maximize the returns through innovative resolution strategies.
BNP Paribas Cardif has sold a 4.99% stake in SBI Life Insurance
On March 12, 2021, The foreign partner of SBI Life Insurance, BNP Paribas Cardif (BNPPC), sold the
major part of its share in SBI Life through the open market process. Over 5 crore shares are sold which
is around 4.99% stake.Post this selling, now BNPPC holds 0.20% stake representing 20,03,612 equity
shares of SBI Life Insurance. SBI Life was incorporated as a joint venture between State Bank of India
(SBI) and BNPPC as a 74:26 equity ratio.
Tech Mahindra Planned To Purchase 70% Stake From Perigord Asset Holdings Ltd
On March 15, 2021, Tech Mahindra announced its plan to acquire a 70 % stake in Ireland-based
Perigord Asset Holdings Ltd for around Rs 182 crore and plans to buy the remaining 30% shareholding
over a period of 4 years at a valuation of its financial performance. It is intended to help in augmenting
its expertise in the domains of global pharmaceutical, and HLS (Healthcare and Lifesciences).

Adani Ports Acquired 31.5% In Gangavaram Port from Warburg Pincus for Rs. 1,954 Crore
On March 17, 2021, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zones (APSEZ) Ltd, a subsidiary of the diversified
Adani Group acquired a 31.5 % stake in Gangavaram Port Limited (GPL) which is held by Windy
Lakeside Investment Limited (an affiliate of Warburg Pincus) for around Rs 1,954 crore.The acquisition
expands APSEZ’s market share to 30% across 12 locations in India.
Govt to Sell up to 16.12% stake in Tata Communications via OFS

On March 15, 2021, Government of India(GoI) is likely to sell 16.12% stake in Tata Communications
(erstwhile VSNL) via Offer For Sale(OFS) at the floor price of ₹1,161 per equity share.It would fetch Rs.
5,334 crores to the GoI. Immediately after the OFS, the government shall sell the remaining(10%)
equity shares held by it in the company to Panatone, arm of Tata Sons. Currently, GoI holds 26.12 %
stake while Panatone Finvest holds 34.80%t and Tata Sons holds 14.07 %.The remaining 25.01% is
with the public.
CCI approved Tata Power’s 51% stake acquisition in NESCO Utility from GRIDCO
On March 18, 2021, The Competition Commission of India (CCI) approved the acquisition of 51% of the
equity share capital of North Eastern Electricity Supply Company of Odisha (NESCO Utility) by The Tata
Power Company Limited (TPCL) from Grid Corporation of Odisha Limited (GRIDCO) under Section
31(1) of the Competition Act, 2002. The proposed acquisition is in accordance with the competitive
bidding process initiated by the Odisha Electricity Regulatory Commission (“OERC”) under Section 20 of
the Electricity Act, 2003.
PowerGrid acquired the Outstanding 74% stake in JPVL

On March 19,2021 Power Grid Corporation of India(PowerGrid) has signed an agreement with
Jaiprakash Power Ventures (JPVL) for the acquisition of the outstanding 74% stake of JPVL in Jaypee
PowerGrid(JPL) at an aggregate consideration of Rs 351.64 crore. PowerGrid has already owned a 26%
stake in JPVL and now through this acquisition, it became a wholly-owned subsidiary of Power Grid.
Govt exited from TCL by selling its outstanding 26.12% stake

On March 22, 2021, The department of investment and public asset management (DIPAM) reported
that the government has exited from Tata Communications Ltd (TCL), a part of the Tata Group, through
the sale of its outstanding 26.12% stake in it for ₹8,846 crores. The exit from TCL helps the government
to get closer to the revised disinvestment target for FY21. Disinvestment Targets for FY22 is about
₹1.75 trillion.
CA Rover Holdings sells 4% stake in SBI Cards for Rs 3728 crore

In March 2021, CA Rover Holdings, an US based private equity funds sold 4% of its current stake
holdings in SBI Cards & Payment Services worth Rs 3728 crore. CA Rovers Holdings previously held
15.86% stake in SBI Cards, even after the sale it holds 11% stake, currently valued at Rs 10,574 crore.
The sale comes after 4 years of profiting nearly 970% returns.
Adani Ports Acquired 58.1% in Gangavaram Port for Rs. 3,604 Crore
On March 23, 2021, Adani Ports and Special Economic Zones (APSEZ) Ltd, a subsidiary of the diversified
Adani Group acquired a 58.1% stake in Gangavaram Port Limited (GPL) belongs to DVS Raju & Family
for around Rs 3,604 crore. Adani port made an agreement to acquire 89.6% of GPL i.e. (31.5% from
Warburg Pincus and 58.1% from DVS Raju & Family) On March 3, 2021. As per the agreement it
acquired the 31.5% stake from Warburg Pincus on March 17, 2021.

NSE bought 26% stake in IGX from IEX and became its co-promoter
The Indian Energy Exchange (IEX) has divested 26% of its equity holding in the Indian Gas Exchange
(IGX) to National Stock Exchange of India (NSE). After this NSE became a co-promoter and the second
largest shareholder on the IGX gas-trading platform IEX, which set up the IGX natural gas trading hub,
had earlier sold 5% stake each to GAIL (India), Adani Total Gas, and Torrent Gas, and Oil and Natural
Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC).
Government Sells 15% stake in Rail Vikas Nigam Ltd

Indian Government has announced to sell 15% of its stake in Rail Vikas Nigam Limited (RVNL) through
an Offer for Sale (OFS) for Rs. 750 crores. Of this 15% stake, Govt. will diverse 10% (208.5 million
shares) of the total paid-up equity capital through OFS and 5% (104.25 million shares) through the
Green Shoe option. This sale comes as a part of Indian govt’s Rs 1.75 lakh crore disinvestment plan.
Adani Green Energy Buys 50 MW Telangana Solar Power Project from SkyPower Global
Adani Green Energy Limited (AGEL) acquired 100% stake in 50 MW Telangana Solar Power Project,
from SkyPower Global. In this regard, AGEL has signed a share purchase agreement with SkyPower
Global.50 MW Telangana Solar Power Project, was commissioned in Oct 2017 and has a long-term
Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with the Southern Power Distribution Company of Telangana.
EIYP acquired 74% stake in Engie Group’s solar assets in India

On 25th March 2021, under a strategic partnership the Edelweiss Infrastructure Yield Plus (EIYP), a
fund managed by Edelweiss Alternative Asset Advisors Ltd (EAAA), acquired the controlling stake in
French Utility major Engie Group’s solar energy assets in India.EIYP along with Sekura Energy Limited
(Sekura Energy),investee company, has completed the first stage of acquisition of 74% stake in Engie
Group, with 813 megawatts-peak (MWp) of operating capacity of solar assets in India.
BPCL sells 61.5% stake in Numaligarh Refinery for Rs.9876 crore

On 26th March 2021, The Bharat Petroleum Corporation Ltd (BPCL) sold its entire stake (61.5%) in
Numaligarh Refinery limited(NRL), Assam to consortium of Oil India Ltd(OIL) and Engineers India
Limited(EIL) and Government of Assam for Rs 9,876 crore.OIL acquired the 54.16% stake in
Numaligarh refinery to raise its share holdings to 80.16%, EIL bought a 4.4% stake and the remaining
3.2% was acquired by the Government of Assam.
DEFENCE
EXERCISE
EXERCISE NAME VENUE / PARTICIPATING KEY NOTES
COUNTRIES
Desert Flag VI Al-Dhafra Air Base, United For the First Time, Indian Air Force (IAF) is
Arab Emirates(UAE) participating in the Annual Multinational
Large force employment warfare exercise
‘Desert Flag VI’ held at the Al-Dhafra Air Base,
United Arab Emirates(UAE). The exercise is
hosted by the UAE Air Force from March 3-27,
2021.It is the 1st time that IAF is participating
in a multilateral exercise in the Gulf Region.

DUSTLIK-II Chaubatia, near Ranikhet, The 2nd Edition of Annual Bilateral Joint
Uttarakhand, Indian Army & Military Exercise ‘DUSTLIK-II’ between the
Uzbekistan Army Indian Army & Uzbekistan Army is being held
from March 10-19, 2021 at Chaubatia, near
Ranikhet, Uttarakhand. The exercise focused
on Counter Insurgency (CI) & Counter-
Terrorism (CT) skills of both sides. The 1st
Edition of ‘Dustlik-I’ was hosted by Uzbekistan
in Chirchiq Training Area near Tashkent from
November 4-13, 2019.
AsterX Space On 8th March, 2021 France started its 5-day
long 1st Military Exercise in Space, “AsterX” to
analyse its ability against attacks on its
Satellites & other defence equipment. The
exercise was named on the memory of its
Astérix, the 1st satellite launched in 1965.
Alongside the French Space Forces Command,
the new US Space Force and German space
agencies also participated in the space
exercise. AsterX” is the 1st Space Military
Exercise of France & also the 1st among
European Countries.
Passage Exercise (PASSEX) Persian Gulf, India- Bahrain On March 17, 2021, the Indian Navy & Royal
Bahrain Naval Force (RBNF) undertook
Passage Exercise (PASSEX) in the Persian Gulf
under Operation Sankalp. From India’s side
‘INS Talwar’ Warship took place in the
exercise, while the RBNF was represented by
the Corvette ‘Al Muharraq’.It aims to enhance
interoperability, strengthen Maritime
cooperation, Reassure safety of Diaspora.
Pabbi-Antiterror-2021 India, Pakistan, China & other India, Pakistan, China & other members of the
members of the Shanghai Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) will
Cooperation Organisation take part in a Joint Anti-Terrorism Exercise
(SCO) called ‘Pabbi-Antiterror-2021’ scheduled to
take place in 2021. The decision to hold a Joint
Anti-Terrorism exercise was taken during the
36th meeting of the Council of RATS (Regional
Anti-Terrorist Structure) of SCO held in
Tashkent, Uzbekistan on March 18, 2021.
RATS, headquartered in Tashkent is a
permanent organ of SCO.
Passage Exercise PASSEX India & Madagascar On March 24, 2021, the 1st ever Joint Naval
Patrol took place between the navies of India
& Madagascar at Madagascar’s Exclusive
Economic Zone (EEZ). To ensure maritime
security in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). On
March 11, 2021, The PASSEX exercise between
India & Bangladesh was conducted at the end
of the 3-day visit by Indian Navy vessels to the

Mongla port in Bangladesh. From the Indian
side INS Shardul, an amphibious warfare
vessel participated in the Defence
Exercise;From Madagascar’s side, Malagasy
Naval Ship ‘Trozona’ took part.
Passage Exercise ‘PASSEX’ Bay of Bengal, The navies of The navies of India & United States conducted
India & United States a 2-day Passage Exercise ‘PASSEX’ in Bay of
Bengal (Eastern Indian Ocean Region) from
March 28-29, 2021. For the 1st time, Indian
Air Force (IAF) fighters also took part in the
exercise. Indian Navy deployed its warship
‘Shivalik’ & Long-range maritime patrol
aircraft P8I in the ‘PASSEX’ exercise. The US
navy was represented by USS Theodore
Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group.
TESTING
MISSILES NAME TESTING LOCATION FEATURES
‘Starship SN10’ SpaceX successfully tested its ‘Starship SN10’ prototype
prototype rocket rocket after two failed attempts. The rocket successfully up
to an altitude of 10, 000 Kms & safely landed back on the
ground, but exploded six minutes after the landing. The test
- launch was considered successful as the Starship prototype
successfully landed after attempting the belly-flop
maneuver (a type of free fall in which the atmosphere
gradually slows down its speed). Starship is being
developed by SpaceX to get people & payloads to moon,
Mars & other distant destinations.
Solid Fuel Ducted Integrated Test Range On March 5, 2021, the Defence Research and Development
Ramjet (SFDR) (ITR) Chandipur in Organisation (DRDO) successfully conducted the flight
technology Balasore, Odisha demonstration of Solid Fuel Ducted Ramjet (SFDR)
technology from Integrated Test Range (ITR) Chandipur in
Balasore, Odisha.With this test, DRDO achieved a
technological advantage of developing long range air-to-air
missiles (AAMs) with SFDR.
Shaheen 1-A On March 26, 2021, Pakistan conducted a successful flight
test of ‘Shaheen 1-A’ (Hatf IV) a Nuclear capable Surface-to-
Surface ballistic missile. It has a range of 900
Kilometres.The test was aimed at re-validating various
- design and technical parameters of the weapon system
including the Advanced Navigation System.The missile is
jointly designed and developed by the Joint venture of
NESCOM (National Engineering & Scientific Commission) &
the National Defence Complex (NDC).
DEALS & MoU’s

MoD, BDL sign deal for supply of 4, 960 MILAN-2T ATGMs to Indian Army
Acquisition wing of Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed INR 1, 188 Crore deal with Bharat Dynamics
Ltd (BDL) for acquiring 4, 960 MILAN-2T Anti-Tank Guided Missiles (ATGM) for the Indian Army. The

deal will boost the ‘Make in India’ initiative of the Indian Government. The induction of 4, 960 tanks is
expected to be completed in three years. MILAN-2T missiles have a range of 1, 850 meters. They are
capable of being fired from ground as well as vehicle-based launchers.
ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE NEWS

IAF gifts 1971 war helicopter to Bangladesh: Golden Jubilee of 1971 war
In order to mark the Golden Jubilee of 1971 War of Liberation, IAF (Indian Air Force) Chief RKS
Bhadauria gifted a Legacy Alouette III Helicopter to Bangladesh Air Force (BAF), in return BAF gifted a
legacy F-86 Sabre aircraft to the IAF.The exchange of aircraft took place in Dhaka during RKS
Bhadauria’ 4-day visit to Bangladesh in February, 2021. Both Legacy gifts will be placed in museums of
both countries.
Indian Army Leases 4 Heron UAVs from Israel

Indian Army has leased 4 Heron TP medium-altitude, long-endurance (MALE) Unmanned Aerial
Vehicles (UAVs) from Israel for 3 years. The leases were done under the emergency procurement
programme of the Indian army. The drones made by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) will be delivered
between August & September 2021.The estimated cost of Leasing is USD 200 Million; the leasing
agreement can be further extended up to 2 years.
Indian Navy Signed a Contract with ‘Suryadipta Projects’ for Constructing 11 ACTCM Barges
On March 5th, 2021 the Indian Navy signed a contract for the construction of 11 Ammunition-Cum-
Torpedo-Cum-Missile (ACTCM) barges, with Thane based MSME Suryadipta Projects Private Limited.
The MSME will start delivering the barges from 22nd May, 2021. Assigning of this project to a Micro,
Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) marks another milestone to Indian Government’s Atma Nirbhar
Bharat and Make in India initiative.
INS Karanj, India’s 3rd Scorpene Class Submarine Commissioned at Naval Dockyard, Mumbai
On 10th March 2021, the Indian Naval Ship(INS) Karanj, India’s 3rd Scorpene class submarine was
commissioned into the India Navy at the Naval Dockyard, Mumbai, Maharashtra. The Ship was
commissioned in the presence of Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Karambir Singh and Navy Chief Admiral
(Retired) VS Shekhawat, the commanding officer of earlier INS Karanj (1971 Indo Pak War). INS Karanj,
a class of diesel-electric attack submarines designed by the Naval Group of France, was constructed at
the Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited under the Make in Indian Program.
Indian Navy Deploys Women Officers On Warship After 23 Years

On 8th March 2021, International Women’s Day, For the first time in 23 years since 1998, the Indian
Navy has deployed 4 women officers onboard its warships. 2 of the 4 officers were posted on the
aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya and the other 2 were deployed on the tanker ship INS Shakti.Recently
Indian Navy has posted Lieutenant Commander Karabi Gogoi as the first women defence attach abroad
in Moscow, Russia.
India successfully conducts Maiden flight trial of Indigenous Torpedo ‘Shyena’

On March 8, 2021, the maiden flight trials of the indigenously developed ‘Advanced Light Torpedo
(TAL) Shyena’ was conducted successfully, it was fired from Indian Navy’s Ilyushin Il-38 Patrol Aircraft.
TAL Sheyna is an anti-submarine torpedo developed by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory
(NSTL), a lab of the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO).The trial was the first of its
kind in India, as ‘TAL Shyena’ was fired from a fixed-wing aircraft.

DRDO successfully developed the Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) System
On March 10 2021, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) was achieved in the
development of Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) by proving the land-based prototype. Naval Materials
Research Laboratory (NMRL), an Indian defence laboratory of DRDO has developed this system. Air
Independent Propulsion (AIP) has a force multiplier effect on the lethality of a diesel-electric submarine
and it will enhance the power to the submerged durability of the boat when compared to other
technologies.
INS Jalashwa reaches Comoros to deliver 1,000 tonnes of rice:Mission Sagar-IV

On 14 March 2021, Indian Naval Ship(INS) Jalashwa, the largest amphibious ship of Indian Navy
reached Port Anjouan, Comoros to deliver 1,000 Metric Tonnes of rice as part of Mission Sagar-
IV.Mission Sagar was India’s initiative to deliver Covid-19 related assistance to the countries in the
Indian Ocean region, which was launched on 10 May 2020.
The capital and currency of Comoros is Moroni and Comorian franc respectively.
India commissions ‘INS Dhruv’ Nuclear Missile Tracking Vessel; Becomes 5th Country in the
World
India commissioned its Ocean Surveillance & Nuclear Missile Tracking Vessel called ‘INS Dhruv’
(codenamed as VC 11184) and became the 5th country after USA, France, Russia & China to possess
such a Tracking vessel. It was constructed at Hindustan Shipyard Ltd, Visakhapatnam under the Make in
India initiative at a cost of INR 725 Crores. It is one of the Largest Warships to be built at an Indian
Yard.Developed by Joint Crew of National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO), the Defence
Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Navy.
MoD signs contract with MDSL for supply of 1, 300 Armored Light Specialist Vehicles to Indian
Army
Ministry of Defence (MoD) has signed a contract worth INR 1, 056 Crore with Mahindra Defence
Systems Ltd (MDSL) for supply of 1, 300 Armored Light Specialist Vehicles (ALSV) to Indian Army. The
Light Specialist Vehicle will be indigenously designed and developed by MDSL.The induction of 1, 300
ALSV is expected to be completed in 4 years.It is the 1st major contract for an ALSV that was designed
and developed completely by the private sector in India with Intellectual Property Rights within India.
Indian Army decommissions 2 Artillery: 130mm Self-propelled Guns & 160mm Mortars
On 16th March 2021, Indian Army decommissioned 2 of its longest serving Artillery – 130mm Self
Propelled M-46 Catapult Guns and the 160mm Tampella Mortars, after making a customary firing of
their last salvos in Mahajan Field Firing Range. The decommissioning event saw the presence of
Director General Artillery, Lieutenant General K Ravi Prasad. It is a hybrid Self-propelled gun developed
by DRDO, by merging 2 existing weapons systems – India’s Vijayanta tank & Russian 130mm M-46 field
gun.
KRAS begins Delivery of MRSAM Missile kits to Indian Armed Forces

Kalyani Rafael Advanced System (KRAS), a joint venture of India’s Kalyani Strategic Systems (KSSL)
and Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense System has started the delivery of BARAK-8 Medium Range
Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM) kits to the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force. The kits will be
delivered from the Hyderabad plant of KRAS.’ Defence Research and Development Organization
(DRDO) is the custodian of the missile programme & Bharat Dynamics Ltd (BDL) the integrator.
Designed by RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems Ltd (100% Rafael design output & Indigenous content
less than 30%).

Indigenously Built Indian Naval Landing Craft Utility ‘L58’ Commissioned at Port Blair
On March 18, 2021, Indian Naval Landing Craft Utility (LCU) ‘L58’, the 8th and last ship of the LCU Mark
IV Class was commissioned into the Indian Navy at Port Blair, Andaman & Nicobar Islands. The L58
(amphibious ship) has been indigenously designed and built by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers
(GRSE), Kolkata.LCU 58 will be based at Port Blair and will be under the command of Andaman &
Nicobar Command (which is the sole Joint Services Command of India).
10 tonnes Unexploded Ordnance Safely disposed under “Operation Thiruvallur”

Indian Army’s Southern Command Troops, Pune launched “Operation Thiruvallur” in Tamil Nadu(TN)
to safely dispose of around 10 tonnes of unexploded ordnance collected by factories. The Ministry of
Defence has directed the Indian Army for conducting the operation under the aegis of “Aid to Civil
Authorities”.The ordnance was collected from the State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil
Nadu (SIPCOT) Industrial Estate in Gummidipoondi, Thiruvallur district, TN.
ICGS OPV ‘Vajra’ commissioned into service at Kattupalli, Chennai

Indian Coast Guard Ship (ICGS) ‘Vajra’ (meaning Thunderbolt), the 6th Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV)
was formally commissioned into service at Kattupalli in Chennai. It has been indigenously designed and
built by L&T Shipbuilding Ltd under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.ICGS Vajra will be commanded by
Deputy Inspector Alex Thomas and will be based at Tuticorin under the operational control of Coast
Guard Eastern Region. ‘Vajra’ is the 6th OPV in the series of 7 OPV. The contract was awarded by the
Ministry of Defence to L&T Shipbuilding ltd.
North Korea fires 2 Ballistic Missiles in Sea

On 24th March, 2021 the United States and Japan announced the firing of 2 Ballistic Missiles by the
North Korean military into the Sea. The United Nations Security Council (UNSC) has banned North
Korea from testing ballistic missiles & holding Nuclear programs. North Korea also fired 2 Non-ballistic
missiles in the Yellow Sea in March.
SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY

SATELLITES LAUNCHES
SATELLITE NAME COUNTRY PURPOSE
‘Amazonia-1’ & 18 co- Indian Space On February 28, 2021, Indian Space Research
passenger satellites Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully launched 1 primary
Organisation satellite ‘Amazonia-1’ & 18 co-passenger satellites from
(ISRO) India (5) & USA (13) from the Satish Dhawan Space
Centre SHAR (SDSC-SHAR), Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh.
The satellites were launched using Polar Satellite Launch
Vehicle-C51 (PSLV-DL Variant). This is ISRO’s 1st Launch
of 2021. It has launched 14 Missions in 2021.
Arktika-M Russia Russia launched the ‘Arktika-M’, 1st satellite to monitor
climate change in the Arctic Region. The satellite was
launched from a Soyuz-2.1b carrier rocket from the
Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan. Arktika is the First
of two satellites launched by Russia for creating a
Hydrometeorological & climate monitoring system to
monitor the climate & environment in the Arctic. The
second Arktika Satellite is set for launch in 2023.

NISAR ISRO Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has
completed the development of an Synthetic Aperture
Radar (SAR) called ‘NISAR’ (NASA-ISRO SAR) which is
capable of producing high-resolution images. It will be
used for the Joint Earth Observation Satellite Mission of
ISRO & NASA (National Aeronautics & Space
Administration), USA. NISAR is the 1st satellite mission
to use 2 different radar frequencies (L-band & S-band) to
measure changes in our planet’s surface.
Sounding Rocket RH-560 SDSC, Sriharikota On 12th March 2021, Indian Space Research
Range (SHAR), Organisation (ISRO) launched a new Sounding rocket
Andhra Pradesh from its Rohini Series, RH-560 from Satish Dhawan Space
Centre (SDSC), Sriharikota Range (SHAR), Andhra
Pradesh. This Sounding rocket will help in carrying out
studies in the upper Atmospheric regions, on Altitude
Variations in the Neutral Winds and Plasma Dynamics.
RH-560 is a 2-stage rocket that can reach a maximum
launch altitude of 548 Kms. Here in RH-560, RH stands
for ‘Rohini’ and the number 560 represents the diameter
of the Rocket in mm.
Soyuz-2.1a Rocket Russian Space On March 22, 2021, Russian Space Agency (Roscosmos)
Agency launched 38 Satellites from 18 Countries into orbit
(Roscosmos) onboard its Soyuz-2.1a Rocket. The rocket was launched
from Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan.The satellites
belong to 18 countries including South Korea, Japan,
Canada, Saudi Arabia, Germany, Italy and Brazil. Apart
from Astroscale, Recently ClearSpace SA, is aiming to
launch the world’s first active debris removal mission in
collaboration with European Space Agency(ESA) by
2025.
OTHER SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY NEWS

NATIONAL
Indian and Japan Space Agencies review cooperation on LUPEX Mission
On 11th March 2021, The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) & Japan Aerospace Exploration
Agency (JAXA) virtually reviewed the progress made under the Joint Lunar Polar Exploration (LUPEX)
mission. LUPEX is a robotic Lunar mission that aims to send a lander and rover to the Moon’s south pole
in the year 2024. The two sides also reviewed the on-going cooperation in earth observation, lunar
cooperation & satellite navigation.
CSIR-NIO to Launch 90-day Cruise Missile to map Genomes in Indian Ocean

CSIR-NIO (Council of Scientific & Industrial Research-National Institute of Oceanography) is set to
launch a 90-day Scientific Cruise Mission to conduct genome & proteome mapping (nutrients) present
inside single-cell organisms in the Indian ocean. It will be the 1st project to map genomes in Indian
Ocean.It aims to strengthen India’s research into commercial biotechnology applications including
anticancer treatments.

Indian School students discover 18 New Asteroids under International Asteroid Discovery
Project
The International Astronomical Union (IAU) confirmed the discovery of 18 new Asteroids by Indian
students as part of the International Asteroid Discovery Project conducted by STEM & Space, an
organization which works towards learning of astronomy and space science in India.The programme
was conducted by STEM & Space along with International Astronomical Search Collaboration (IASC) as
part of NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) Citizen Science project.
ISRO’s SEED program to help Indian space tech startups use agency’s resources, facilities
Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO) is on formulating an exclusive space start-up programme
“Space Entrepreneurship & Enterprise Development (SEED)” to take start-ups in the space sector to a
higher orbit with a string of initiatives to help them realise their business potential.
IIT Madras Start-up Pi Beam Launches Electric Two-wheeler called ‘PiMo’

IIT Madras-incubated startup Pi Beam has launched an Electric Two-wheeler called ‘PiMo’ which can
charge faster than a smartphone & has a range of 50 Kms. Nearly 90% of PiMo’s product components
are manufactured in India to embody the ‘Make in India’ spirit.
Data Patterns delivers ‘Indigenous Checkout system’ to ISRO for its ‘Gaganyaan’ Mission
On March 17, 2021, Data Patterns India Pvt Ltd handed over the Indigenously developed ‘Checkout
System’ to the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) for its ‘Gaganyaan’ Mission (India’s 1st
Human Space Flight Programme) at Chennai. A checkout system is used for performing health checks
on all cable harness assemblies used in the crew module of ‘Gaganyaan’ Mission. ISRO’s ‘Gaganyaan’
mission is scheduled for launch in 2022-23. HSFC (Human Space Flight Centre) is responsible for the
implementation of the Gaganyaan project.
India & France working on 3rd Joint Satellite Mission

K Sivan, the Chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation(ISRO) stated that India and France are
working on the third joint satellite mission, as a bilateral space collaboration is entering into multiple
domains like space exploration and human spaceflight programmes. France is the biggest partner of
India in space.ISRO and French space agency Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES) have already
undertaken two joint missions “Megha Tropiques” launched in 2011 and “SARAL Altika” launched in
2013.
ISRO partners with IIST to undertake Joint Research Activities

Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has partnered with Indian Institute of Space Science and
Technology (IIST) to undertake Joint Research Activities. The partnership model will be similar to the
JPL-Caltech model followed by US Space Agency NASA. Under the initiative ‘New, advanced, futuristic
projects’ which have not been undertaken so far by ISRO will be taken up for development.
ISRO demonstrates Quantum Communication over a distance of 300 Metres for the 1st Time
For the 1st time in India, Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) successfully demonstrated free-
space Quantum Communication over a distance of 300 Metres. The free-space QKD (Quantum Key
Distribution) was demonstrated at Space Applications Centre (SAC), Ahmedabad, Gujarat. It is a major
milestone achievement for unconditionally secured satellite data communication using quantum
technologies. QKD is the technology behind Quantum Communication Technology.
ITI and Thalamus Irwine Developed Blockchain Technology in Healthcare Ecosystem

ITI Limited(ITI), the Indian telecom products manufacturing arm and Thalamus Irwine, Delhi based AI
(Artificial Intelligence) Firm, have developed a first of its kind technology called Garuda Blockchain

Platform for storing medical data on the blockchain. On March 25, 2021, they have demonstrated a
working proof of concept (PoC) for the technology with 300 patients.The healthcare platform Garuda
will accelerate the roll-out of the “One Nation, One Health Card” vision of Prime Minister Narendra
Modi.
Cochin Shipyard Ltd delivers ‘MV Sindhu’ Passenger-cum-Cargo Vessel to A&N Island
Administration
Cochin Shipyard Ltd (CSL) delivered the indigenously built ‘MV Sindhu’, a 150 MT Cargo Vessel to the
Andaman & Nicobar (A&N) Island Administration. It is capable of carrying 500 passengers and can
cruise at 16 Knots. CSL will also provide full life cycle support for the Ship’s efficient operation.
INTERNATIONAL
JPMorgan & GomSpace successfully test World’s First Bank-led Blockchain Transaction in
Space
Denmark based GomSpace and US-based JPMorgan Chase & Co have successfully tested the World’s
First Bank-led Blockchain Transaction in Space (IOD – in-orbit demonstration) using Danish space firm
GomSpace’s GOMX-4 Satellites. The Transactions were executive through smart contracts on a
blockchain network, established between satellites orbiting the earth.
World’s Most Powerful Supercomputer “Fugaku” by Japan, Now Fully Operational

“Fugaku” the Japanese supercomputer that topped the Top500 list for 2 consecutive years is now fully
operational. The supercomputer that was developed for 6 years by Japanese scientific research institute
RIKEN and Fujitsu was used in projects to combat COVID-19 pandemic. Japan’s Research Organization
for Information Science and Technology (RIST) has selected 74 projects that will use the
supercomputer in FY2021. This will work towards the Japanese government’s vision of an ultra-smart
Society 5.0.
HP Launched World First PCs with Plastic Waste in Ocean

HP(Hewlett-Packard) has made the World’s first PC using plastic waste from the ocean.
To build on HP’s sustainability commitment, The HP Pavilion line-up (HP Pavilion 13, HP Pavilion 14,
and HP Pavilion 15 laptops) uses the post-consumer recycled and plastic waste in Ocean in the
construction of speaker housing.The Pavilion series is set to keep around 92000 plastic bottles out of
the ocean and landfills.The outer boxes and fibre cushions used for the packaging of the new PCs are
100% sustainably sourced and recyclable.
Nokia partners with Microsoft, Amazon Web Services & Google to develop a cloud-based 5G
radio solution
On 15th March 2021, Finnish telecom manufacturer, ‘Nokia’ announced partnership with Microsoft,
Amazon Web Service and Google to develop a new cloud-based 5G radio solution with Nokia’s Radio
Access Network (RAN) Technology. Nokia’s 5G RAN will be developed with high level innovative inputs
from Google’s Cloud Anthos platform, Microsoft Azure & Amazon Elastic Compute Cloud (Amazon EC2),
Amazon Elastic Kubernetes Service (Amazon EKS) and AWS Local Zones.

SPORTS
CRICKET
Indian Cricketer Vinay Kumar announces retirement from First Class & International Cricket
Former Indian Cricketer & Fast Bowler Ranganath Vinay Kumar announced his retirement from First
Class & International Cricket at the age of 37. He hails from Davanagere, Karnataka and is affectionately
called as ‘The Davanagere Express’. He has played for Karnataka, Puducherry in the Ranji Trophy.
Pollard becomes third batsman to hit six 6s in an over in international cricket

West Indies limited-overs format skipper Kieron Pollard became the third batsman in the history of
international cricket after Herschelle Gibbs(South Africa) and Yuvraj Singh(India) to hit six 6s in an
over. He achieved the feat in the first T20I of the three-match series against Sri Lanka here at the
Coolidge Cricket Ground in Antigua.
VIVO regains IPL Title Sponsorship

Chinese smartphone maker, VIVO, regained its Title Sponsorship in 2021’s edition of Indian Premier
League (IPL). Previously, in 2018 VIVO acquired the title sponsorship of IPL for 5 years at a cost of Rs.
2,199 crores, ie; 440 crores per year. Due to the backslash of Chinese products in 2020, VIVO took a
temporary break from the IPL’s title sponsorship, which was acquired by Dream11 at 50% cost of Rs.
222 crores for 2020 edition.
Cricket: India retains Anthony de Mello Trophy by Defeating England in 2020-21 Test Series
The Indian Cricket Team defeated England in the 4th Test Match held at Narendra Modi Stadium,
World’s Largest Cricket Stadium at Motera, Ahmedabad, Gujarat to win the Match & consequently the
2020-21 Test series by 3-1. With the win, India has yet again retained the Anthony de Mello Trophy.
Player of the Series is Ravichandran Ashwin. The Anthony de Mello Trophy is awarded to the winner of
the England-India Test Cricket series held in India. The trophy was already with the Indian Team as
they had won the Test Series held in 2016-17.
Ashwin, Beaumont Win ICC Player of Month Awards for February

International Cricket Council (ICC) has announced India’s Ravichandran Ashwin as the ICC men’s player
of the month (February) and England’s Tammy Beaumont as the ICC Women’s Player of the Month for
February 2021.
Mithali Raj becomes 1st Indian & 2nd International Woman Cricketer to score 10, 000
International Runs
Mithali Raj became 1st Indian Woman Cricketer & 2nd International Women Cricketer (after England’s
Charlotte Edwards) to score 10, 000 runs in International Cricket across all 3 formats of Cricket.She
achieved the record during the 3rd ODI Between India & South Africa Women’s team at Bharat Ratna
Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee Ekana Cricket Stadium, Lucknow. Mithali Raj hails from Rajasthan; she made
her debut for India in June 1999. She became the First Woman Cricketer to complete 7, 000 runs in
Women’s ODI cricket.
Rawalpindi’s KRL Stadium renamed after Shoaib Akhtar

The cricket authorities in Rawalpindi has renamed historic KRL Stadium in Rawalpindi, Pakistan as
Shoaib Akhtar Stadium to honour Akhtar for his services to Pakistan cricket for years.

Former Ireland Captain, Gary Wilson, retires from International Cricket
On 19th March 2021, the 35-year-old Gary Wilson, Former captain of Ireland Cricket Team announced
retirement from International Cricket. He represented the Ireland squad in 2 Cricket World Cups (2011,
2015) and 5 T20 World Cups (2009, 2010, 2012, 2014, 2016). Currently, he is all set to take over the
role of Head Coach and Pathway Manager for North West Warriors.
ICC Bans UAE Cricketers Mohammad Naveed & Shaiman Anwar for 8 Years
On 16th March 2021, International Cricket Council (ICC) handed an 8-year ban to UAE cricketers,
Former United Arab Emirates(UAE) captain Mohammad Naveed and batsman Shaiman Anwar from all
forms of cricket. They were banned for breaching the ICC Anti-Corruption Code.
Mumbai Cricket Team Wins 2021’s Vijay Hazare Trophy

Mumbai cricket team won the 2021’s Vijay Hazare Trophy in the finals against Uttar Pradesh, where the
captain of Mumbai, Prithvi Shaw became the 1st player to score 800 runs in a single edition. Previously,
Mayank Agarwal held the highest run scorer record with 723 runs from the 2018 edition. In the same
match, Uttar Pradesh batsman, Madhav Kaushik, scored 158 runs recording the highest runs scored by
a batsman in the tournament’s final.
Cricket: India wins the 2020-21 Paytm T20I series against England
The Indian Cricket Team defeated England in the 5th T20I Match held at Narendra Modi Stadium,
Ahmedabad, Gujarat to win the Match and consequently the 2020-21 Paytm T20I series by 3-2.Player of
the Series is Virat Kohli and he became the 1st Cricketer to score 3, 000 runs in T20 Internationals.
‘Girl Gang’ announced official song of ICC Women’s World Cup 2022
A song ‘Girl Gang’ by New Zealand singer Gin Wigmore, has been announced as the official song of the
12th edition of 2022 International Cricket Council(ICC) Women’s World Cup at Mt Maunganui Beach,
New Zealand.The tournament is set to be hosted in New Zealand from March 4 to April 3, 2022.The
song is from Wigmore’s fourth album Ivory released in 2017.
India Legends won 1st edition of 2020-21 Road Safety World Series T20 against Sri Lanka
Legends
India Legends cricket team against Sri Lanka Legends won the 1st Edition of the 2020-21 Road Safety
World Series T20 tournament ,organized by the Road Safety Cell of Maharashtra in the Finals.
Tillakaratne Dilshan, captain of Sri Lanka Legends won the Player of the series.Sachin Tendulkar was
the captain of India Legends.7 Countries Participated in the series viz, India Legends, Sri Lanka Legends,
South Africa Legends, West Indies Legends, England Legends, Bangladesh Legends, Australia Legends.
India beats England in 3-match ODI series

In the recently concluded 3-match One Day International (ODI) Series between India & England which
was hosted by India, Indian Cricket team under the captaincy of Virat Kohli won the series in a thrilling
2-1 lead. England opener Jonny Bairstow was awarded the Player of the Series. Virat Kohli became the
3rd Indian Captain to lead Indian side in 200 International matches [MS Dhoni in 332 matches &
Mohammad Azharuddin in 221 matches].
BADMINTON & TENNIS

Indian shuttlers Varun Kapur & Malvika Bansod wins 2021 Uganda International titles
On 28th February 2021, Indian Shuttlers Varun Kapur & Malvika Bansod won the 2021’s Uganda
International Badminton’s Men’s & Women’s Singles Titles that was held from 25th to 28th of February,
2021, at Lugogo Indoor Stadium, Kampala, Uganda.

Badminton: PV Sindhu clinches Silver Medal at YONEX Swiss Open 2021
Indian Shuttler PV Sindhu clinched the Silver Medal in the 2021 Swiss Open Super 300 (Officially
known as Yonex Swiss Open 2021) after she was defeated in the final by Spain’s Carolina Marin. The
tournament took place at St. Jakobshalle in Basel, Switzerland, from March 2-7, 2021. It is organized by
Swiss Badminton & sanctioned by the BWF.
Category Winners Runners
Men’s Singles Viktor Axelsen (Denmark) Kunlavut Vitidsarn (Thailand)
Women’s
Singles Carolina Marin (Spain) PV Sindhu (India)
Kim Astrup & Anders Rasmussen Mark Lamsfuss & Marvin Saidel
Men’s Doubles (Denmark) (German)
Women’s Pearly Tan & Thinaah
Doubles Muralitharan (Malaysia) Gabriela & Stefani Stoeva (Bulgaria)
Thom Gicquel & Delphine Delrue Mathias Christiansen & Alexandra
Mixed Doubles (France) Boje (Denmark)
Sharath Kamal Becomes First Indian Paddler To Qualify For The 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games
On 18th March 2021, Achanta Sharath Kamal, an Indian table tennis player, win over Muhammad
Rameez (Pakistan) in the Asian Olympic Qualification tournament held in Doha, Qatar and became the
first Indian Paddler to qualify for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games. This marks the 4th appearance of
Kamal at the Olympic games. Achanta Sharath Kamal was born on 12th July 1982 in Chennai, Tamil
Nadu.
Overview of Yonex All England Open Badminton Championships 2021

The 2021 All England Open (officially known as the Yonex All England Open Badminton Championships
2021) took place at Arena Birmingham in England from March 17-21, 2021. Organized by Badminton
England; Sanctioned by BWF. Malaysia’s Lee Zii Jia won the Men’s Singles. Japan’s Nozomi Okuhara won
the Women’s Singles.
Winners of the Tournament
Category Winner Runner-up
Men’s Singles Lee Zii Jia (Malaysia) Viktor Axelsen (Denmark)
Takeshi Kamura &
Yuta Watanabe & Hiroyuki Endo Keigo Sonoda
Men’s Doubles (Japan) (Japan)
Nozomi Okuhara
Women’s Singles (Japan) Pornpawee Chochuwong (Thailand)
Yuki Fukushima &
Mayu Matsumoto & Wakana Nagahara Sayaka Hirota
Women’s Doubles (Japan) (Japan)
Yuki Kaneko &
Yuta Watanabe & Arisa Higashino Misaki Matsutomo
Mixed Doubles (Japan) (Japan)
ATHLETIC & FOOTBALL

Odisha to host 2021 edition of Hero Indian Women’s League Football
On 28th February, 2021 the All-India Football Federation (AIFF) has announced that the 2020-21
edition of Hero Indian Women’s League Football tournament will be hosted by Odisha state. The event
was postponed in 2020 due to Covid-19 pandemic. Exact dates of the event are not yet finalised.

FIFA Collaboration with UNODC to Fight Against Match Manipulation
On March 16, 2021, The Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) collaborated with
United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime(UNODC) to launch the Global Integrity Programme a
comprehensive international programme to fight and prevent match manipulation.It aims to protect the
integrity of football and will play an important role in educating and building capacity within all 211
member associations to help fight match-fixing at a local level.
Federation Cup: Avinash Sable sets new national record in men’s 3000m steeplechase
Avinash Sable posted a new national record of 8 minutes 20.20 seconds as he won the men’s 3000-
metre steeplechase at the National Federation Cup. Avinash has already qualified for Tokyo Olympics.
He broke his own record of 8:21.37 at the 2019 Doha World Championships.
Football-2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup Venue – Mumbai, Ahmedabad & Bhubaneswar
On 26th March, 2021 the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) & the AFC Women’s Asian Cup India 2022
Local Organising Committee (LOC) announced the 3 final venues for the 2022 AFC Women’s Asian Cup
that will be held in India from January 20 to February 6, 2022. India will also host the FIFA Women’s U-
17 World Cup in 2022.
Dhanalakshmi dethrones Dutee Chand to win 100m title at Fed Cup

Dhanalakshmi from Tamil Nadu has beaten Dutee chand and Hima Das to won the 100 metre women’s
final at Federation Cup Athletics 2021 in Patiala, Punjab. She took 11:39seconds to clinch the gold metal
while Dutee Chand was second with 11.58 seconds. Hima Das was disqualified for a false start.
BOXING, WRESTLING & WEIGHTLIFTING

Wrestling: Vinesh Phogat wins Gold Medal at XXIV Outstanding Ukraining Wrestlers & Coaches
Memorial Tournament
Indian Wrestler Vinesh Phogat won the Gold Medal in the Women’s 53 Kg Category of XXIV Outstanding
Ukrainian Wrestlers and Coaches Memorial Tournament held at Kyiv (also known as Kiev), Ukraine.
She defeated Vanesa Kaladzinskaya of Belarus in the Final.
The Event was held from February 26-28, 2021 and was organized by United World Wrestling. She is
the only Indian Woman Wrestler to have qualified for the Tokyo Games.
Boxing: India bags 10 Medals at 35th Boxam International Tournament 2021

India’s 14-member Boxing Contingent bagged 10 Medals (1 Gold, 8 Silver, 1 Bronze) at the 35th Edition
of the 2021 ‘Boxam’ Elite International Tournament held at Castellon de la Plana, Spain. The event took
place from March 1-7, 2021. It is hosted by the Spanish Boxing Federation. Manish Kaushik clinched the
Gold Medal in the men’s 63 Kg category.Six-time World Champion MC Mary Kom (51Kg) clinched the
Bronze Medal in the women’s 51 Kg category boxing…Click here for Indian winner list
NADA Disciplinary Panel Imposed Sanctions on Weightlifter Madhavan R & Boxer Ruchika for
Violating Code
On 9th March 2021, the Disciplinary Panel of the National Anti-Doping Agency (NADA) imposed
sanctions on Madhavan R, Weightlifter, and Ruchika, Boxer for the violation of NADA’s code on the
usage of prohibited substances. The Anti-Doping Disciplinary Panel(ADDP) has banned Madhavan R
and Ruchika for 4 years and 2 years respectively.
Wrestling: India bags 8 Medals at Matteo Pellicone Ranking Series 2021 held in Rome, Italy
The 14-member Indian Wrestling Contingent bagged 8 medals (2 Gold, 1 Silver, 5 Bronze) at the Matteo
Pellicone Ranking Series 2021 held at Rome, Italy from March 4-7, 2021. The series was conducted for

the categories of Freestyle, Greco-Roman & Women Wrestling. Around 26 Countries participated in the
Tournament which was organized by the United World Wrestling (UWW).
Winner Category Medal
Bajrang Punia Men’s 65 Kg (Freestyle) Gold
Vinesh Phogat Women’s 53 Kg Gold
Sarita Mor Women’s 57 Kg Silver
Vishal Kaliramana Men’s 70 Kg (Freestyle) Bronze
Neeraj Men’s 63 Kg (Greco-Roman) Bronze
Kuldeep Malik Men’s 72 Kg (Greco-Roman) Bronze
Naveen Men’s 130 Kg (Greco-Roman) Bronze
Arjun Halakurki Men’s 55 Kg (Greco-Roman) Bronze
India to host 2021’s Asian Boxing Championship in May at New Delhi

On 15th March, 2021 International Boxing Association (AIBA) announced that 2021’s Edition of Asian
Boxing Championship will be held between May 21-31 at New Delhi, India. This will be the 1st boxing
tournament in Asia in 2021, acting towards evaluating boxers’ readiness for the Olympic games.30th
edition of Asian Amateur Boxing Championships that was held in 2019 saw participation from 34
countries. 2020’s Event was cancelled on the rise of pandemic, and it is expected to see participants
from 32 countries in the 2021’s edition.
Government Recognised Indian Style Wrestling Association as a National Sports Federation

On 8th March 2021, The Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports has officially recognised the Indian Style
Wrestling Association of India (ISWAI) as a National Sports Federation (NSF) for promotion and
regulation of “Indian Style Wrestling” in India.With this recognition ISWAI is eligible to receive fund and
support from the government.
ARCHERY & SHOOTING

Shooting – Indian Men Team Wins Bronze, Women’s Team Wins Silver at ISSF World Cup 2021,
Egypt
The ISSF (International Shooting Sport Federation) Shotgun World Cup 2021 was held in Cairo, Egypt
from February 22-March 5,2021. The Shotgun tournament took place for disciplines of Trap Shooting &
Skeet Shooting. Russia topped the overall medal standings with 9 medals, followed by Croatia & Spain.
India finished 7th place with 2 medals. The Indian Women’s Trap Team trio of Kirti Gupta, Manisha Keer
& Rajeshwari Kumari won the Silver medal in the event.
OTHER SPORTS NEWS

Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports Restored the Recognition of GFI after 10 years
On 26th February 2021, the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports restored the recognition of the
Gymnastics Federation of India(GFI) as National Sports Federation after a decade. The recognition
granted by the Ministry with immediate effect is for the period till 31st December 2021. GFI’s
accreditation was revoked by the ministry in 2011 exactly 10 year before due to fighting within the
federation.
J&K tops medal tally at Khelo India Winter Games held at Gulmarg, J&K
On 2nd March, 2021, Jammu & Kashmir retained the top spot in the 2nd Edition of Khelo India Winter
Games, which was held at Gulmarg, J&K. Both the 1st & 2nd edition is held at Gulmarg, J&K. Jammu &

Kashmir retained the top spot for the second consecutive time. The event was organized by J&K Sports
Council & Winter Games Association of J&K.
Top 3 position:
1.Jammu & Kashmir won 11 Gold, 18 Silver and 5 Bronze Medals.
2.Karnataka won 5 Gold, 4 Bronze Medals.
3.Maharashtra won 3 Gold, 3 Silver & 2 Bronze Medals.
Bhavani Devi becomes 1st Indian Fencer to qualify for 2020 Tokyo Olympics
Chadalavada Anandha Bhavani Devi who hails from Tamil Nadu became the 1st ever Indian Fencer to
qualify for an Olympics. She was assured of qualification for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics after Hungary
lost to South Korea in the Quarter-finals of Team event of 2021 Fencing Sabre World Cup being held at
Budapest, Hungary. She was the first Indian to bag a silver medal at the 2014 Asian Championship U23
category in Philippines and first Indian to win a gold medal at the senior Commonwealth Fencing
Championship in Canberra in the sabre event in 2019.
India Finished 3rd in 2021 Para Shooting World Cup with 7 Medals
India bagged 7 medals (2 Gold, 1 Silver & 4 Bronze) and finished at 3rd Position in the 2021 World
Shooting Para Sport World Cup held at Al Ain, UAE from March 15-25, 2021. Ukraine topped the table
with 11 Medals (5 Gold, 5 Silver, 1 Bronze), while UAE finished Second with 5 medals (3 Gold, 2
Silver).They are organized by the International Paralympic Committee (IPC)…Click here for complete
detail.
Lewis Hamilton wins 2021 Bahrain Grand Prix of Formula One

Mercedes Driver Lewis Hamilton (Great Britain) won the 2021 Bahrain Grand Prix (officially known as
Formula 1 Gulf Air Bahrain Grand Prix 2021) held at Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain on
March 28, 2021.Red Bull Racing’s driver Max Verstappen (Netherlands) finished 2nd in the race, while
Mercedes driver Valtteri Bottas (Finland) finished 3rd in the race. Bahrain Grand Prix is the inaugural
GP of the 2021 Formula One World Championship.
BOOKS & AUTHORS

BOOK NAME AUTHOR KEY NOTES
Advantage India: The Anindya Dutta Anindya Dutta, a banker turned author, penned a new
Story of Indian Tennis book titled “Advantage India: The Story of Indian
Tennis”, a chronicle of Indian Tennis. Advantage India
is a well-researched account of the journey of Indian
tennis, with a special section on the Doubles game and
on women’s tennis in India.The book is published by
Westland publications. The book provides the extensive
history of Indian tennis on both men’s and women’s
side.
State of Terror Louise Penny & Former United States Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton
Hillary Clinton is co-writing a mystery novel called ‘State of Terror’
with Louise Penny, a Canadian author. The novel is
slated to be released on October 12, 2021. It will be
jointly released by Clinton’s Publisher, Simon &
Schuster & Louise Penny’s St. Martin’s Press.
The Mystery of the Shrabani Basu “The Mystery of the Parsee Lawyer: Arthur Conan Doyle,
Parsee Lawyer George Edalji and the Case of the Foreigner in the

English Village” the new book authored by Shrabani
Basu is set to be released on 3rd March 2021. The book
is published by Bloomsbury Publishing. The book
uncovered the mystery case of George Edalji in the
village of Great Wyrley in the early 20th Century which
was first investigation on real-life crime by Arthur
Conan Doyle, the creator of Sherlock Holmes.
Joe Biden: American Evan Osnos National Book Award Winner Evan Osnos has authored
Dreamer a new Book “Joe Biden: American Dreamer” a biography
of American President, Joe Biden that features both the
personal and public life of Joe Biden. The book is
published by Bloomsbury Publishing. The author
portrays President Joseph R. Biden Jr. as a man who has
sustained a 50-year political career and became the
President and a man who is marked with deep personal
losses.
Artificial Intelligence and Rajiv Malhotra Acclaimed Author Rajiv Malhotra, a Physicist and
the Future of Power: 5 Computer Scientist specializing in Artificial
Battlegrounds intelligence(AI) has authored a new book titled
“Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Power: 5
Battlegrounds”. The book features both the positive and
negative impacts of AI.The book is published by Rupa
Publications.
The Frontier Gandhi: My Khan Abdul Ghaffar The autobiography of Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan,
Life and Struggle Khan popularly known as the “Frontier Gandhi” & fondly
known as Bacha Khan or Badshah Khan, titled “The
Frontier Gandhi: My Life and Struggle” is set to be
published in English by the publishing house Roli Books.
This will be his first autobiography in English. The book
was translated into English by Imitiaz Ahmad
Sahibzada, former Pakistani civil servant and author.
The foreword of the book is written by historian
Rajmohan Gandhi, Grandson of Gandhi and the book
was originally written in Pashto and published in 1983.
Dynasty to Democracy: Anant Vijay On March 05,2021, Westland Publication ltd, announced
The Untold Story of the release of the English translation of Anant Vijay’s
Smriti Irani’s Triumph book named ‘Dynasty to Democracy: The Untold Story
of Smriti Irani’s Triumph’ by March 15.The Book is a
translation of Hindi book titled ‘Amethi Sangram:
Aitihasik Jeet Ankahi Dastan’ , which was published in
December, 2020.The English translation is also done by
Anant Vijay.
The Green Queens of Released by Prakash On 8th March 2021, Prakash Javadekar, Union Minister,
India – A Nation’s Pride Javadekar Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate
Change(MoEF&CC) released an e-book titled “The Green
Queens of India – A Nation’s Pride”, a compilation of
case studies, best practices and life experience of
women forest officers. The eBook was published by
Indian Forest Service Association-Central unit. New
Delhi.He released the book at the first ever conference

of Women Indian Forest Service(IFS) officers and
women frontline personnel.
Karunanidhi: A Life AS Panneerselvan Readers’ editor at The Hindu, AS Panneerselvan
authored a new book titled “Karunanidhi: A Life”, a book
about the 8-decade political career of Muthuvel
Karunanidhi who served as the Chief Minister of Tamil
Nadu for 5 terms and the leader of the Dravida
Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) for over five decades. The
foreword of the book was written by N. Ram, former
editor in chief of The Hindu.The book was published by
Penguin Viking.
Baanjh: Incomplete Lives Susmita Mukherjee Actor, Screenwriter, and Playwright Susmita Mukherjee
of Complete Women have authored her 2nd book titled “Baanjh: Incomplete
Lives of Complete Women”. The book is a collection of
11 short stories that portray the lives of women from
various social backgrounds.The book was published by
Readomania Publishing.The title of the book is named
after one of the 11 short stories in the book called
Baanjh which is about the life of Rukmini Devi in an
abusive marriage.
Hunchprose Ranjit Hoskote The Indian poet, art critic, cultural theorist, and
independent curator Ranjit Hoskote released his recent
8th poetry collection titled ‘Hunchprose’ in English.The
poems are about the turbulent times we live in and
celebrate every aspect of humanity and being human.
One of the best books of the author: ‘Vanishing Acts’,
‘Central Time’ ‘Jonahwhale’ and ‘I, Lalla: The Poems of
Lal Ded’. He was honoured with Sahitya Akademi Award
for lifetime achievement in 2004.
Prince with a Paintbrush: Shobha Tharoor Under Westland’s ‘Red Panda’ imprint, an illustrated
The Story of Raja Ravi Srinivasan book for children titled “Prince with a Paintbrush: The
Varma Story of Raja Ravi Varma” written by Shobha Tharoor
Srinivasan will be published in April.It aims to inspire
young readers to learn about the famed artist and how
he made his entry and mark in the art world.Srinivasan
has earlier authored children’s books like “Indi-
Alphabet” and “How Many Lines in a Limerick?”
My Life in Full: Work, Indra Nooyi Padma Bhushan awardee Indra Nooyi, the former CEO
Family and Our Future of PepsiCo is set to publish her memoir titled “My Life in
Full: Work, Family and Our Future”. The book is set to
be published by Portfolio books on September 28. The
book will feature both the personal and professional life
of Indra Nooyi. The book features the life of Indra Nooyi
from her childhood in India to her life at Yale University
as an immigrant to her life as a person of colour in the
elite corporate world.
Dawn under the Dome Swati Pandey On 15th March 2021, Bhagat Singh Koshyari, the
collaboration with governor of Maharashtra released the ebook “Dawn
Orchida Mukherjee under the Dome” on the history of the Mumbai General
Post Office(GPO) Building, the grand old heritage

building. The book was authored by Swati Pandey, the
PostMaster General of Mumbai in collaboration with
Orchida Mukherjee. Chief Postmaster General,
Maharashtra and Goa Circle H.C. Agrawal was present
during the release.
Undertow Jahnavi Barua Jahnavi Barua, Bengaluru based author has released her
3rd Novel titled “Undertow”. The story of the novel is
set in Assam which touches on various themes like
home, family, self-love and others. The book was
published by Penguin Viking. The book portrays the
story of Loya, a 25-year-old who is on a journey to
discover herself.
What’s up with me Tisca Chopra Bollywood actress and author, Tisca Chopra, unveiled
the cover of her second book “What’s up with me” a
friendly, practical and empathetic guide for pre-teen
girls and their parents published by Red Panda. “Her
maiden venture was a book titled “Acting Smart: Your
Ticket To Showbiz”.
Gandhi in Bombay Dr.Usha Thakkar and On 15th March 2021,The Indiatourism Mumbai,
Sandhya Mehta Regional Office of Ministry of Tourism in the Western
Region organized an online book reading session of
“Gandhi in Bombay’’ by the authors Dr.Usha Thakkar
and Sandhya Mehta , as part of the Azadi Ka Amrit
Mahotsav celebrations.Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav (India
@ 75) is a series of events to be organised by the
Government of India to commemorate the 75th
Anniversary of India’s Independence.
India’s Power Elite: Sanjaya Baru Sanjaya Baru’s book named “India’s Power Elite: Caste,
Caste, Class, and Cultural Class, and Cultural Revolution” to be released in April by
Revolution Penguin Random House India. The book says about the
inside story of India’s power elite. Through this book,
the author unveils the emerging dynamics of political,
economic, and cultural power in contemporary India.
The Pain-Free Mindset Dr. Deepak Ravindran Dr. Deepak Ravindran, the lead of Pain therapy at Royal
Berkshire Hospital, Reading, United Kingdom(UK) has
authored a book titled “The Pain-Free Mindset: 7 Steps
to Taking Control and Overcoming Chronic Pain”. The
book was published by Vermillion, an imprint of
Penguin.The book describes MINDSET as an acronym
for Medication, Intervention, Nervous system, Diet,
Sleep, Exercise and Therapies.
Full Spectrum: India’s Arjun Subramaniam Full Spectrum: India’s Wars 1972-2020 is the book
Wars 1972-2020 authored by retired Air Vice Marshal (Dr) Arjun
Subramaniam about the war and conflict in
contemporary India over the past five decades which is
published on 8 October 2020 by HarperCollins India.
Arjun Subramaniam is a retired fighter pilot from the
IAF (Indian Air Force) and airpower analyst and
strategic commentator who is currently a Visiting
Professor at Ashoka and Jindal Universities.

Saving Us: A Climate Katharine Hayhoe Katharine Hayhoe, the present Chief scientist at the
Scientist’s Case for Hope Nature Conservancy, authored a book on Climate
and Healing in a Divided change, titled “Saving Us: A Climate Scientist’s Case for
World Hope and Healing in a Divided World ” that is set to be
released on 21st September 2021. The book will project
the combined perspective of Ms. Hayhoe’s research &
personal stories to provide overwhelming evidence of
climate change. In 2019, she was honoured with the
“Champion of the Earth” award, the highest
environmental honor of the United Nations (UN).
Battle Ready for 21st General Bipin Rawat On 17th March 2021, India’s Chief of Defence Staff,
Century along with Gen General Bipin Rawat along with Former Chief of the
Deepak Army Staff, Gen Deepak released a book, “Battle Ready
for 21st Century” at Centre for Land Warfare Studies
(CLAWS). The book was co-edited by Lt Gen AK Singh,
Distinguished Fellow CLAWS & Brigadier Narender
Kumar, a visiting Fellow CLAWS.The book methods to
strategically manage border conflict in future in all
possible fonts- Land, Air, water, cyber & cognitive
domains to avoid war.
Bringing Governments Dr M Ramachandran On the World Happiness Day, 20th March 2021, Vice
and People Closer President of India M. Venkaiah Naidu virtually launched
the book “Bringing Governments and People Closer”.
This is the 10th book authored by retired IAS officer Dr
M Ramachandran.The book discusses the problems
faced by common man while dealing with Government
offices in getting certificates, benefits of govt. Schemes,
clearances etc.
Escaped: True Stories of Danish Khan & Ruhi The new book titled “Escaped: True Stories of Indian
Indian Fugitives in Khan Fugitives in London” Authored by Danish Khan & Ruhi
London Khan was released on 22nd March 2021. The book
features 12 high profile cases where the guilty party has
escaped to England.The book was published by Penguin
eBury Press. The book was presented by S. Hussain
Zaidi, an Indian author and former investigative
journalist who publishes under the aegis of Blue Salt.
Names of the Women Jeet Thayil Jeet Thayil’s new book titled ‘Names of the Women’
talks about women whose roles were suppressed,
reduced or removed in the Gospels. The book was
published by Penguin Books. The book features the
story of 15 women whose lives were overlapped with
the life of Christ.The women featured in the book
includes, Lydia and Assia, Martha and Mary of Bethany,
Junia the Widow of Jerusalem, Susanna the Barren,
Ariamma the Canaanite and others.
My Experiments With Samir Soni Bollywood Actor Samir Soni(52 years old) is set to
Silence release his first book titled “My Experiments With
Silence” on anxiety and self-discovery. The book will
also chronicle the details of Samir Soni’s early days in

Bollywood. The book is set to be published by OM Books
International and is set to be released by late 2021.
Indians: A Brief History Namit Arora Namit Arora has authored a book titled “Indians: A Brief
of a Civilization History of a Civilization” The book is published by India
Viking, an imprint of Penguin Random House. Through
this book Namit explores the ideas, beliefs and values of
our ancestors through millennia. The book features 5
chapters on travellers like Megasthenes, Faxian,
Xuanzan and Yijing, Alberuni a, Marco Polo, and
Francois Bernier and chapters on six places.
1232 km: The Long Vinod Kapri On 25th March 2021, to mark the first Anniversary of
Journey Home lockdown due to COVID-19, HarperCollins India
publication announced the release of Vinod Kapri’s new
book titled “1232 km: The Long Journey Home”. The
book published by HarpersCollin India is set to release
in May 2021. The book is the true account of the
migrants journey from Ghaziabad, Uttarpradesh to
Saharsa, Bihar which spans around 1232 kilometres.
From Incremental To Vivek Wadhwa, Ismail The book titled “From Incremental To Exponential: How
Exponential Amla And Alex Large Companies Can See the Future and Rethink
Salkever Innovation” authored by Vivek Wadhwa, Ismail Amla
And Alex Salkever is a guide to how the companies
should proceed to remain relevant. The book was
published by Berrett-Koehler Publishers. The book
explores the opportunity legacy companies to create
new markets, supercharge growth and remake their
business by combining the tools and mindsets of
startups with benefits of incumbency.
Wild and Wilful: Tale of Neha Sinha “Wild and Wilful: Tale of 15 Iconic Indian Species” the
15 Iconic Indian Species new book authored by wildlife conservationist Neha
Sinha is an evocative collection of insights from various
disciplines that describes human -animal coexistence.
The book is published by HarperCollins. The book is a
collection of 15 essays each focused on an Indian
species.
Hamnet Maggie O’Farrell Irish-British novelist, Maggie O’Farrell‘s novel ‘Hamnet’,
an imagined take on the death of Shakespeare’s son
from the bubonic plague, has won the National Book
Critics Circle(NBCC)’s award 2020 for the fiction
category.Every year at March National Book Critics
Circle awards are given to honour literature published
in the United States in six categories—autobiography,
biography, criticism, fiction, nonfiction, and poetry.
Name Place Animal Daribha Lyndem The debut book of Daribha Lyndem from Meghalaya
Things titled “Name Place Animal Things” examines the
boundaries between the adult world and the world of a
child. The book takes its name from a beloved school
game. The book is published by Zubaan Publishers Pvt.
Ltd. The book features a young khasi woman who lives
in the city of Shillong, Meghalaya in early 2000s.

I Am Malala: The Story of Malala Yousafzai I Am Malala: The Story of the Girl Who Stood Up for
the Girl Who Stood Up Education and was Shot by the Taliban is an
for Education and was autobiographical book by Malala Yousafzai about
Shot by the Taliban herself. It was co-written by Christina Lamb and
published on 8 October 2013, by Weidenfeld & Nicolson
in the UK and Little, Brown and Company in the US.
Awards received in 2013 are Specsavers National Book
Awards, Popular Non-Fiction Book of the Year and
Goodreads Choice Awards, Best Memoir &
Autobiography. Malala addressed about this book at the
recent Jaipur Literature Festival(JFL) virtually.
OBITUARY
NATIONAL
PERSON NAME FIELD BORN PLACE KEY NOTES
Anshuman Singh Former Governor of Uttar Pradesh Passed away at the age of 86 in
Rajasthan Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. He passed
away due to COVID-19 related
pneumonia. He was born in 1935 in
Allahabad, Uttar Pradesh. Anshuman
Singh served as the Governor of
Rajasthan from 16th January 1999 to
May 2003.
Laxman Pai Artist Goa On March 14,2021, Padma Bhushan
recipient and Goa’s veteran artist
Laxman Pai passed away at the age of
95 in Goa.He was born in Goa in 1926,
he is well known for his contemporary
paintings he is also the former
principal of the Goa College of Art. He
received the third highest civilian
honour of Padma Bhushan award in
2018.
Chemancheri Kathakali Performer Kerala On 15th March 2021, Veteran
Kunhiraman Nair and Guru Kathakali performer and Guru, Padma
Shri Chemancheri Kunhiraman Nair
passed away at the age of 105 in his
residence in Cheliya, Koyilandy in
Kozhikode, Kerala. He was born on
16th June 1916 in Malabar district,
Madras Presidency, British India
(present Kozhikode, Kerala). He
founded the Bharatiya
Natyyakalayalam, the first school of
dance in North Kerala in 1945 and in
1983 he established Cheliya Kathakali
Vidyalayam in Kozhikode.

Rahul Khullar Former Chairman of Former Chairman of Telecom
(TRAI) and Regulatory Authority of India
Commerce Secretary (TRAI) and Commerce Secretary , a
1975-batch IAS officer Rahul Khullar
- passed away due to prolonged illness,
who served as Commerce
Secretary(2009-2012) and appointed
as TRAI chairman in May 2012 for
three years.
Nand Kumar Singh 6-time Lok Sabha Madhya Pradesh On 2nd March 2021, Nand Kumar
Chauhan member Singh Chauhan, of Bharatiya Janata
Party(BJP), 6-time Lok Sabha member
from Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh(MP),
who was suffering from COVID-19
infection passed away at the age of 69
in Gurugram, Haryana. He was born on
8th September 1952 in Shahpur,
Khandwa, Madhya Pradesh.
Mathai George Chairman of the Kerala On 5th March 2021, Mathai George
George Muthoot Muthoot Group George Muthoot (MG George Muthoot),
Chairman of the Muthoot Group passed
away at the age of 71 in New Delhi. He
was born in November 1949 in
Kozhencherry, Pathanamthitta district
of Kerala. MG George Muthoot joined
the family business: The Muthoot
group as an office assistant and became
the managing director in 1979. He was
listed as the 26th richest man in India
by Forbes in 2020.
Ishar Singh Deol Indian Athlete Punjab On March 06, 2021, The Dhyan Chand
National Awardee, Ishar Singh Deol a
veteran Indian athlete died at the age
of 91 in Chandigarh. He majorly
participated in Shot-put and Discus
throw from 1951-1960. He was born
on September 7,1929 in Ranguwal,
Ludhiana, Punjab. He had participated
in the first three Asian Games and in
1954 he won a bronze medal in the
second Asian Games which was held in
Manila, Philippines. In 1982, at the first
Asian Veteran Athletic Meet he won
gold which was held in Singapore.
Dilip Kumar Former Union Maharashtra Passed away at the age of 69 in Delhi.
Mansukhlal Gandhi Minister and He was tested positive for COVID-19 on
Bharatiya Janata 16th March 2021. He was born on 9th
Party(BJP) leader May 1951 in Pune, Maharashtra.
G V Ramakrishna Former Chairperson Karnataka On 20th March 2021, G V Ramakrishna,
former chairperson of Securities and

Exchange Board of India (SEBI), a
market regulator of India passed away
at the age of 91 in Chennai, Tamil
Nadu. He was born in 1930, in
Bengaluru, Karnataka.G V Ramakrishna
was a 1952 batch IAS officer from
Andhra Pradesh cadre.
INTERNATIONAL
PERSON NAME FIELD BORN PLACE KEY NOTES
Hamed Bakayoko Prime Minister Ivory Coast On 10th March 2021, Hamed Bakayoko, Prime
Minister(PM) of Ivory Coast and Minister of
Defence passed away at the age of 56 in a
hospital in Germany due to cancer. He was
born on 8th March 1965 in Abidjan, Ivory
Coast.Patrick Achi has been appointed as the
interim Prime Minister of Ivory Coast.
John Pombe President Tanzania On 17th March 2021, John Pombe Magufuli, the
Magufuli President of Tanzania and leader of the Chama
Cha Mapinduzi party passed away at the age of
61 at a hospital in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. He
was born on 29th October 1959, in Chato,
Tanzania. He was the first president of
Tanzania to die while holding office.Samia
Hassan Suluhu, the first female Vice President
of Tanzania is set to become the First Female
President of Tanzania.
Olivier Dassault French Billionaire France On 7th March 2021, French Billionaire and
Member of French National Assembly, Olivier
Dassault of Les Republicans party died in a
helicopter crash in Normandy, France at age 69.
Olivier Dassault the heir of Dassault Groupe
(Dassault Aviation, Le Figaro etc) was born on
1st June 1951 in Boulogne-Billancourt, France.
He was the son of businessman and politician
Serge Dassault.
Lou Ottens Inventor of Dutch The Dutch inventor, Lou Ottens, inventor of
Cassette tape Cassette tape passed away at the age of 94. He
was the one who invented the 1st Cassette tape
that was produced by Philips in 1962. These
Cassette tapes were a huge success worldwide
with 100 million sales. The cassette tape was
mostly used by Music lovers, until it was
replaced by Compact Disk (CD). Lou Ottens also
acted as the supervisor of CD’s development
team.
Moudud Ahmed Former Prime Bangladesh In March 2021, former Prime Minister of
Minister Bangladesh and one of the founding members
of Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP),
Barrister Moudud Ahmed, passed away at the

age of 80 in Singapore.Barrister Moudud
Ahmed was born on 24 May 1940 in
Companiganj Upazila of Noakhali district in
Bangladesh.
IMPORTANT DAYS
OBSERVED DATE / WEEK DAYS KEY NOTES
February 27, 2021 National Protein Day Annually observed across India on 27th
February to create and raise awareness about
the importance and health benefits of
Protein.The theme of the National Protein
Day 2021 is ‘Powering with Plant
Protein’.The theme aims to focus on plant-
based sources of protein – as accessible,
affordable, acceptable, and versatile protein
sources that are often ignored in a country.
February 28, 2021 National Science day Annually observed across India on 28th
February to commemorate the discovery of
‘Raman Effect’ by Indian Physicist Sir
Chandrasekhara Venkata Raman(CV Raman)
for which he was awarded the Nobel Prize in
Physics in 1930. The theme of the National
Science Day 2021 is “Future of Science and
Technology and Innovation(STI): Impact on
Education, Skills and Work”. The celebrations
and events of the National Science Day 2021
are organised by the National Council for
Science Technology Communication (NCSTC),
Department of Science and Technology
(DST).
February 28, 2021 Rare Disease Day Annually observed across the globe on the
last day of February every year to create
awareness to the general public regarding the
rare disease and their effects on the lives of
the affected people. The International Rare
Disease Day is organised by EURORDIS.The
Rare Disease Day 2021 falls on 28th February
2021 which also marks the 14th Rare Disease
Day. Rare disease is also known as orphan
disease, which affects a small percentage of
the global population.
March 1, 2021 Zero Discrimination Day Annually observed across the globe on 1st
March to highlight the needs to take actions
to end the inequalities based on income, sex,
age, health status, occupation, disability,
sexual orientation, drug use, gender identity
race, class, ethnicity and religion.The UN

celebrated the first Zero Discrimination Day
on 1st March 2014.
March 1, 2021 World Civil Defence Day Annually observed across the globe on 1st
March to honour and signify the importance
of civil protection. The aim is to bring the
attention of the world public to the vital
importance of Civil Protection. The theme of
the World Civil Defence Day 2021 is “Strong
Civil Protection To Preserve The National
Economy”. The World Civil Defence Day 2021
observed on 1st March 2021 marks the 90th
anniversary of the International Civil Defence
Organization (ICDO).
March 1, 2021 Civil Accounts Day Annually observed by the Indian Civil
Accounts Service(ICAS)on 1st March since
the inception of ICAS on 1st March 1976. ICAS
is one of the Civil Services of India, under the
Department of Expenditure, Union Ministry
of Finance.1st March 2021 marks the 45th
Civil Accounts Day. For the first time the
events of Civil Accounts Day have been
organised as a virtual event in New Delhi.
March 3, 2021 World Wildlife Day United Nations(UN)’s World Wildlife Day is
annually observed across the globe on 3rd
March to celebrate the wild fauna and flora
across the globe and to create awareness
about conservation of wildlife. The events of
the world Wildlife day are organised by the
Convention on International Trade in
Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora
(CITES) Secretariat in collaboration with the
organizations in the United Nations system.
The theme of 2021 is “Forests and
Livelihoods: Sustaining People and Planet”.
March 3, 2021 World Hearing Day Observed across the globe on 3rd March to
raise awareness on how to prevent deafness
and hearing loss and to promote hearing care
across the globe. The World Health
Organisation(WHO) organises the annual
events of the world hearing day at the WHO
headquarters at Geneva, Switzerland.The
theme of the world Hearing day is also
decided by the WHO.The World Hearing Day
2021 on 3rd march 2021 is celebrated under
the theme “Hearing care for ALL! Screen.
Rehabilitate. Communicate”.
March 4, 2021 National Safety Day Observed across India on 4th March under
the theme “Learn from Disaster and Prepare
for a Safer Future” to create awareness about
the safety and hygienic measures which

should be inculcated in the lifestyle of the
general people. The National Safety Week is
observed from 4th March 2021 to 10th March
2021.The day marks the establishment of the
National Safety council of India.The 4th
March 2021 marks the 50th National Safety
Day.
March 4, 2021 National Security Day Which is also known as the Rashtriya
Suraksha Diwas is annually observed across
India on 4th March to acknowledge and
appreciate the works of the security forces of
the country. The day is celebrated to
showcase the gratitude to all the security
forces like, Police force, para military force,
commandos, guards, army and other security
personnels who put their life on line for the
safety and security of others. The day is
marked to remember the sacrifices of the
security personnel who lost their lives in the
line of duty.
March 7, 2021 Janaushadhi Diwas also Annually observed across India on 7th March,
known as Generic the last day of the Janaushadhi Diwas Week
Medicine Day (1st March to 7th March). The day aims to
publicize the endeavours of Pradhan Mantri
Bhartiya Janaushadhi Pariyojana(PMBJP), an
initiative by Department of Pharmaceuticals,
Government of India, to provide quality
medicine at affordable price. The 3rd
Janaushadhi Diwas was observed on 7th
March 2021 under the theme “Seva bhi –
Rozgar bhi”.
March 8, 2021 International Women’s United Nations(UN)’s International Women’s
Day (IWD) Day (IWD) is annually observed across the
globe on 8th March to recognise the
achievements of the women regardless of
their nation, ethnic, language, culture,
economic or political. This day celebrates the
efforts of the women and girls across the
globe towards shaping an equal future and
recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. The
theme of International Women’s Day 2021 is
“Women in leadership: Achieving an equal
future in a COVID-19 world”. The theme of
the International Women’s Day Campaign is
“#ChoosetoChallenge”.
March 10, 2021 CISF Raising Day Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
Raising Day is annually observed across India
on 10th March to commemorate the service
and commitment of the personnel of CISF
towards protecting the major installations

and integrity of the nation. The day also
marks the establishment of the CISF on 10th
March 1969. CISF was established under
Central Industrial Security Force Act, 1968
(50 of 1968). The 10th March 2021 marks the
CISF’s 52nd Raising Day.
March 10, 2021 National Gestational Annually observed across India on 10th
Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) March to create nationwide awareness about
Awareness Day the connection between maternal health and
diabetes.10th March 2021 is observed as the
National GDM Awareness Day.India observed
the World’s First National GDM Awareness
Day from 10th March 2019.
March 11, 2021 World Kidney Day Annually observed across the globe on the
2nd Thursday of March to create awareness
about the functions of Kidney and to educate
the importance of kidney health and reduce
the impacts of kidney diseases. The World
Kidney Day Steering Committee has declared
2021 the year of “Living Well with Kidney
Disease”. The theme of World kidney Day
2021 is “Kidney Health for Everyone
Everywhere – Living Well with Kidney
Disease”. As part of the World Kidney Day
campaign this year, the #MyGr8Rule
challenge – involving the 8 golden rules of
kidney care.
March 14, 2021 International Day of Annually observed across the globe on 14th
Mathematics (IDM) March to celebrate the beauty and
importance of mathematics and its essential
role in everyone’s life. The day also marks the
birth anniversary of renowned
mathematician and physicist Albert Einstein
and death anniversary of theoretical physicist
Stephen Hawking. The theme of the
International Day of Mathematics 2021 is
“Mathematics for a Better World”. The
International Day of Mathematics is led by
the International Basic Sciences Programme
(IBSP) and the International Mathematical
Union.
March 14, 2021 International Day of Action The International Day of Action for Rivers
for Rivers which was formerly known as “International
Day against Dams, for Rivers, Water, and Life”
is annually observed across the globe on 14th
March to create awareness about the
importance of rivers.14th March 2021 marks
the 24th edition of the International Day of
Action for Rivers.The theme of International

Day of Action for Rivers 2021 is “Rights of
Rivers”.
March 15, 2021 World Consumer Rights Annually celebrated across the globe on 15th
Day March to highlight the power of consumers
and their rights for a fair, safe and sustainable
marketplace for everyone.The world
Consumer Rights day is coordinated by
Consumers International, the membership
organisation for consumer groups across the
globe.The theme of World Consumer Rights
Day 2021 is “Tackling Plastic Pollution”.
March 16, 2021 National Vaccination Day Also known as National Immunisation Day, is
annually observed across India on 16th
importance of vaccination. The government
of India aims to raise awareness about the
vaccination against poliovirus and other
deadly viruses.The National Vaccination day
2020 aims to eradicate both polio and the
COVID-19.The day was first observed on 16th
March 1995, the day on which the Pulse Polio
Immunisation Programme became
operational.
March 18, 2021 Global Recycling Day Annually observed across the globe on 18th
March to promote the importance of
recycling across the globe. The day calls for
the world to work together to change the
mindset of governments, business,
communities and individuals across the globe
to consider recyclables as resources. The
theme of the Global Recycling Day 2021 is
“Recycling Heroes”. The theme of 2021
recognises the people, places and activities
which showcased the importance of recycling
towards an environmentally stable planet.
March 18, 2021 Ordnance Factory Day Annually observed by the Ordnance Factory
Board (OFB) on 18th March to mark the
foundation of the first Ordnance Factory at
Cossipore near Kolkata in 1801. The day is
celebrated by the Indian Ordnance Factories,
under the Ministry of Defence.The 18th
March 2021 marks the 220th Ordnance
Factory Day. Two employees of the factory
Mr Anjaneyulu and Mr Pulla Reddy have been
conferred “Ayudh Sri” Awards. V.
Gunasekaran, Joint General Manager, was
awarded ‘Ayudh Bhushan’ award and K.
Karthikesh, Security Officer, was awarded the
‘Best Security Officer’ award at a celebratory
event.

March 19, 2021 World Sleep Day Annually observed on the Friday before the
Spring Vernal Equinox. The day is aimed to
celebrate sleep and create awareness about
the importance of sleep and issues related to
sleep, including the medicine, education and
social aspects. The 19th March 2021 marks
the observance of the 14th annual World
Sleep Day.The world Sleep day is annually
organised by the World Sleep Day Committee
of the World Sleep Society.
March 20, 2021 International Day of United Nations(UN)’s International Day of
Happiness Happiness, annually observed across the
globe on 20th March, is dedicated to the
importance of happiness in people’s life. The
first International day of happiness was
observed on 20th March 2013. The theme of
the International Day of Happiness 2021 is
“Keep Calm. Stay Wise. Be Kind”. The 2021
International Day of Happiness campaign
theme is “Happiness For All Forever”.
March 20, 2021 World Oral Health Day Annually observed across the globe on 20th
March to promote the importance of oral
health and to reduce the problems of oral
diseases that affect the individuals, health
system and economy.The theme of World
Oral Health Day 2021 is “Be Proud of your
Mouth” and this theme will be followed in
2022 and 2023.
March 20, 2021 World Sparrow Day Annually observed across the world on 20th
March to create awareness and to bring
attention to the significance and importance
of conservation and protection of the
sparrows and other such birds. The theme of
World Sparrow Day is “I Love Sparrows”.
World sparrow day is the initiative of the
Nature Forever Society in India in
collaboration with the Eco-Sys Action
Foundation, France and other national and
international organisations across the globe.
March 21, 2021 United Nations Annually observed across the globe on 21st
International Day of March to create awareness about the
Forests importance of all types of forests.The day is
annually organised by the United Nations
Forum on Forests and the Food and
Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United
Nations in collaboration with Governments,
the Collaborative Partnership on Forests and
other organizations in the field.The theme of
the International Day of Forests for 2021 is

“Forest restoration: a path to recovery and
well-being”.
March 21, 2021 International Day of United Nations (UN)’s International Day of
Nowruz Nowruz, is annually observed across the
globe on 21st March to create awareness
about Nowruz and to organise annual events
to commemorate the festival of Nowruz.The
festival is also known by other names like
Navruz, Novruz, Nooruz, Nevruz and Nauryz.
The word Nawruz means “New Day”. The first
International Day of Nowruz was celebrated
on 21st March 2010. The festival marks the
first day of the spring and it is celebrated on
the day of the astronomical vernal equinox,
which usually occurs on 21 March.
March 21, 2021 World Poetry Day United Nations Educational, Scientific and
Cultural Organization (UNESCO) celebrated,
World Poetry Day every year on March 21
across the globe. It is one of the humanity’s
most treasured forms of cultural and
linguistic expression and identity.The day
was observed to recognize the poetry
movements nationally as well as
internationally.Epic of Gilgamesh is an epic
poem from ancient Mesopotamia, regarded as
the earliest surviving notable literature and
the second oldest religious text, after the
Pyramid Texts.
March 21, 2021 World Down Syndrome In a move to create awareness towards Down
Day Syndrome, the United Nations annually
observes 21st of March as the World Down
Syndrome Day. All over the world, annually
3000 to 5000 childrens are born with this
chromosome syndrome.#LotsOfSocks
campaign – An online campaign was
conducted where, people are asked to wear
mismatched socks, to spread awareness on
Down Syndrome.
March 21, 2021 International Day for the The United Nations(UN)’s International Day
elimination of Racial for the elimination of Racial Discrimination is
Discrimination annually observed across the globe on 21st
March to eliminate all forms of racial
discrimination and to create awareness about
the impacts of racial discrimination.The day
aims to support a global culture of tolerance,
equality and anti-discrimination.The theme of
International Day for the Elimination of
Racial Discrimination 2021 is “Youth
standing up against racism”.

March 22, 2021 United Nations(UN)’s Annually observed across the globe on 22nd
World Water Day March to enhance the focus on the
importance of freshwater and to create
awareness about the global water crisis. The
main aim of World Water Day is to support
the achievement of Sustainable Development
Goal (SDG) 6: Water and Sanitation for all by
2030.The theme of World Water Day 2021 is
“Valuing water”. The theme of 2021 is about
“What water means to people and its true
value and how to protect the water, the vital
resource”.
March 21, 2021 World Puppetry Day Annually observed across the globe on 21st
March to promote the puppetry arts and
allows the association of the puppet actors of
the same territory.The day is celebrated
across the globe through Union
Internationale de la Marionnette (UNIMA)’s
national centres and their members.
March 23, 2021 United Nations(UN)’s Annually observed across the world on 23rd
World Meteorological Day March to create awareness about the
importance of the role of people and their
behaviour in protecting the Earth’s
atmosphere. The day showcases the
contribution of National Meteorological and
Hydrological Services towards the safety and
wellbeing of society. World Meteorology Day
2021 is a registered activity of the United
Nations Decade of Ocean Science for
Sustainable Development (2021-2030). The
theme of World Meteorological Day 2021 is
“The ocean, our climate and weather”.
March 23, 2021 Shaheed Diwas or Martyr’s Government of India, annually observes the
day 23th of March as Shaheed Diwas or Martyr’s
day to honour the 3 young freedom fighters-
Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, and Shivaram
Rajguru. The 90th death anniversary of the 3
youngsters was observed on 21st March
2021 During their hanging Bhagat Singh
made the historic slogans “Inquilab
Zindabad”, which later became the slogan of
India’s armed struggle.30th January, the
death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi is also
observed as Martyr’s day.
March 20, 2021 United Nations(UN)’s Annually observed across the globe on 20th
French Language Day March to create awareness among the
international community about the history,
culture and use of the French language. The
UN annually celebrates the 6-language day
for the 6 official languages of the UN, Arabic,

Chinese, English, French, Russian and
Spanish.The day is recognised by the
International Organization of La
Francophonie (OIF) as the International Day
of La Francophonie.The theme of French
Language Day 2021 is “Francophone Women,
Resilient Women”.
March 24, 2021 World Tuberculosis Day Observed annually on 24th March. It is
observed to raise awareness about the global
epidemic of Tuberculosis (TB).2021 Theme –
‘The Clock is Ticking’. It is one of the 11
official Global Public Health campaigns
marked by the World Health Organization
(WHO. Kerala won Bronze Medal in the Union
Health Ministry’s Sub National Certification of
Efforts towards Elimination of TB.
March 24, 2021 International Day for the United Nations(UN)’s International Day for
Right to the Truth the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross
Concerning Gross Human Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity
Rights Violations and for of Victims is annually observed across the
the Dignity of Victims globe on 24th March to pay tribute to the
memory of Monsignor Oscar Arnulfo Romero,
who was murdered on 24th March 1980.
Monsignor Oscar Arnulfo Romero was
actively involved in denouncing the violations
of Human rights of the most vulnerable
individuals in El Salvador.
Remembrance of the Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and
Victims of Slavery and the the Transatlantic Slave Trade is annually
Transatlantic Slave Trade observed across the globe on 25th March to
honour and remember the victims of the
brutal slavery system. The day aims to create
awareness about the dangers of racism and
prejudice. The theme of International Day of
Remembrance of the Victims of Slavery and
the Transatlantic Slave Trade 2021 is “Ending
Slavery’s Legacy of Racism: A Global
Imperative for Justice”.
Solidarity with Detained Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff
and Missing Staff Members Members is annually observed across the
globe on 25th March. The day recognises the
dangers encountered by the UN staff
members as they carry out their work for the
United Nations.The day also marks the
anniversary of the abduction of Alec Collett, a
former journalist, who worked for the UN
Relief and Works Agency for Palestine
Refugees in the Near East(UNRWA).

March 27, 2021 World Theatre Day Annually observed across the globe on 27th
importance of theatre arts. The day is
observed at around 90 International Theatre
Institute (ITI) Centres across the globe and
the International Theatre Community. The
World Theatre Day was first initiated by the
International Theatre Institute (ITI) in
1961.The first World Theatre Day was
celebrated on 27th March 1962.
March 27, 2021 Earth Hour Annually observed across the globe on the
last Saturday of March as a symbolic gesture
towards the commitment to preserve the
Earth and to support actions against Climate
Change. Earth Hour is one of the world’s
largest grassroot movements for the
environment. The first Earth Hour was held
in Sydney, Australia, in 2007.Every year, On
Earth Hour, millions of people across the
globe switch off their non-essential electric
lights for an hour between 8.30 PM and 9.30
PM.Earth Hour 2021 is observed on 27th
March 2021.
March 29, 2021 World Piano Day Annually observed across the globe on the
88th Day of the Year to celebrate the piano,
piano performers, composers, piano builders,
tuners and listeners. The World Piano Day
2021 falls on the 29th March 2021.The day
aims to create a platform for piano related
projects to promote the development of
musical dimensions and to share the joy of
playing piano.
APPS & WEB PORTAL

APP & WEB NAME LAUNCHED BY PURPOSE
Mobile Seva Appstore Govt. of India On 18th March 2021, Ravi Shankar Prasad, Union
Minister, Ministry for Electronics and Information
Technology(MeitY), stated that the government is
keen to develop and strengthen India’s first
indigenously developed mobile app store – “Mobile
Seva Appstore”.
According to the India App Market Statistics report
2021, around 5% of the apps on android were
developed by Indian app developers.
SMEInsure Alliance Insurance In order to provide financial security to Micro,
Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), small
shop and business owners on February 28, 2021,
Alliance Insurance launched SMEInsure. It is a

portal to insure 5 crores Small and Medium
Enterprises (SMEs) under the insurance
category.Notably, the portal will provide insurance
services in a phygital formate -physical, through
individual personal assistance and digital insurance
through the portal.
YIELD Axis Securities On March 3, 2021, Axis Securities launched ‘YIELD’,
an online platform to buy and sell bonds as well as
debentures in the secondary market. It is a first-of-
its-kind initiative that allows retail investors direct
access to the debt instruments. Earlier, this online
access was available only to the large corporations,
family offices, or HNIs (high net worth individual).
It will remove the hassle of filling up physical forms
or the need for separate KYC with the bond
institutions.
Co-WIN MapmyIndia MapmyIndia has been integrated with India’s
official vaccination registration portal - ‘Co-WIN’
(COVID Vaccine Intelligence Network) to enable
users to locate nearby COVID-19 vaccine centres.
Using the portal, Users can insert their current
location or enter their address, pin code, or location
of interest to check nearby vaccination centres. In
February, 2021 India had integrated COVID-19
Tracing App ‘Aarogya Setu’ & Co-WIN portal to
enable users to download Vaccination certificates
after they have received at least one dose of COVID-
19 Vaccination.
Sugamya Bharat App Thaawarchand On March 2, 2021, Union Minister Thaawarchand
Gehlot Gehlot, Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment
(MoSJE) virtually launched ‘Sugamya Bharat App’
and a handbook entitled ‘Access – The Photo Digest’
through video conference in New Delhi. Both of the
new launches are developed by Department of
Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities
(DEPwD), MoSJE. Sugamya Bharat APP launched
under the Accessible India Campaign-AIC (Sugamya
Bharat Abhiyaan) to deal the issues related to
accessibility being faced by Divyangjan (Differently
abled) and others.Handbook is a collection of
photographs from across different States and UTs
(Union Territories) representing 10 basic features
of accessibility.
Jagrut Tripura Biplab Kumar Deb On 2nd March, 2021 Biplab Kumar Deb, Chief
Minister of Tripura, launched the Digital Platform
“Jagrut Tripura” to provide access to various
Central & State government schemes. Currently, the
platform is integrated with 35 state departments of
the State providing over 135 services. Jagrut
Tripura” empowers the people with Information

Technology (IT) related services, and integrates all
services availed to act as a porgessive model having
‘One data one source’.
ANMOL Atal Dulloo Jammu & Kashmir Financial Commissioner of
Health and Medical Education, Atal Dulloo
distributed tablets among Auxiliary Nursing
Midwives (ANMs) & launched the application
‘ANMOL’ under the National Health Mission(NHM).
The app will help the beneficiaries(People), to
know about all the Schemes & the benefits of NHM.
Smart PoS Paytm On 9th March, 2021 e-Commerce & financial
Service provider, Paytm, launched “Smart PoS” a
new application for accepting contactless payments
through smartphones. Paytm also launched the
second version of its Internet of Things (IoT) based
instant voice conformation device, “Soundbox 2.0”.
The Smart PoS app is supported by “Paytm for
Business” (P4B) app for managing seamless
transactions.
Mera Ration Department of On March 12, 2021, the Department of Food &
Food & Public Public Distribution, Ministry of Consumer Affairs,
Distribution Food & Public Distribution launched the ‘Mera
Ration’ Mobile app under the ‘One Nation One
Ration Card (ONORC)’ plan. It aims to benefit ration
card holders who move to new areas for
livelihoods.The mobile app has been developed by
the Department of Food & Public Distribution along
with the National Informatics Centre (NIC).
SERB – PRoject Information SERB On March 11, 2021, the Science and Engineering
System & Management (SERB – Research Board (SERB) a statutory body of the
PRISM) Department of Science and Technology (DST) has
set up a portal called ‘SERB – PRoject Information
System & Management (SERB – PRISM)’ to retrieve
real-time information about research support
provided by them.It was launched by Prof.
Ashutosh Sharma, Chairman, SERB, & Secretary,
DST.
Atmanirbhar Niveshak Mitra DPIIT In order to strengthen the efforts to promote
domestic investments, the Department for
Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT)
is in the process of finalising a dedicated digital
portal – Atmanirbhar Niveshak Mitra – for hand
holding, information broadcasting, and provide
assistance of domestic investors. It is under the
supervision of the commerce and industry ministry.
The Portal is in the testing phase and expected to
be launched in May 2021.
UPFPO Shakti Portal Yogi Adityanath On March 21, 2021, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister
Yogi Adityanath launched UPFPO (Uttar Pradesh
Farmer Producer Organization) Shakti Portal as

part of the Kisan Kalyan Mission in Gorakhpur, UP.
It is the 1st of its kind in India.Developers –
Department of Agriculture, UP with technical
support & Funding Support from Bill and Melinda
Gates Foundation (BMGF). The initiative is aligned
with Prime Minister’s vision of doubling farmers’
income by 2022 & making India a USD 5 Trillion
economy by 2024.
Bharat e-Market CAIT Confederation of All India Traders (CAIT) launched
a vendor onboarding mobile app for its upcoming
e-commerce portal “Bharat e-Market”. This
application allows businesses and service providers
to register on the portal and create their own “e-
dukaan (an online shopping store)”. There will be
no charge for creating an e-dukaan nor any
commission on business done on the portal. The
other e-commerce portals are charging commission
from 5% to 35% on transactions done on their
portal.
PRANIT POWERGRID E-Tendering Portal ‘PRANIT’ was launched by
Power Grid Corporation of India Limited
(POWERGRID), a central PSU under the Ministry of
Power. This e-portal was established to minimize
the paperwork and ease of operation and expects
the tendering process to become more transparent.
It has been certified by Standardisation, Testing
and Quality Certification Directorate (STQC),
Ministry of Electronics and Information
Technology, Government of India.
Climate Data Service Portal India On 23rd March 2021, The India Meteorological
Meteorological Department (IMD) launched a Climate Data Service
Department Portal with meteorological data of over 100 years
(IMD) (since 1900) which can be accessed by the public.
The portal has been developed by IMD, Pune.The
platform was developed with climate data
management and supply to the users.
IEPFA Nirmala On March 25, 2021, Union Minister for Finance &
Sitharaman Corporate Affairs, Nirmala Sitharaman virtually
launched 2 Tech-enabled initiatives of the Ministry
of Corporate Affairs (MCA) - Central Scrutiny
Centre (CSC) for Scrutinizing Straight Through
Process (STP) Forms filed by the corporates on the
MCA 21 registry and Mobile app of IEPFA (Investor
Education & Protection Fund Authority) to achieve
the goal of financial literacy, spreading investors’
awareness, education and protection among
investors in both rural & urban areas.. They aim to
strengthen the Prime Minister’s vision of ‘Digitally
Empowered India’.

i-Learn S Pangnyu Phom On March 23, 2021, Nagaland Health and Family
Welfare Minister S Pangnyu Phom, launched a
capacity building and performance tracking
application, i-Learn for Community Health Officers
(CHOs) in Nagaland.The app is launched with the
support of project NISHTHA which is funded by the
United States Agency for International
Development (USAID) and implemented by Jhpiego.
ENVIRONMENT
Researchers Discover 5 new Species of Shrub Frogs in Western Ghats
Researchers from India’s University of Delhi and Kerala Forest Research Institute along with University
of Minnesota, USA have discovered 5 new species of Shrub Frogs (genus Raorchestes) in Western Ghats.
Their findings were published in ‘PeerJ’ journal, the findings came as an outcome of a long
comprehensive study on the Shrub frogs that was conducted in Western Ghats over a period of 10
years. The scientific name of Frog is “Anura”.
Hemiandrus Jacinda: Insect named after New Zealand prime minister

Hemiandrus Jacinda is a species of wētā, a giant flightless cricket and native to New Zealand was first
described by Steven A. Trewick. It was named after New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern and
was published in Zootaxa journal. Steven A. Trewick is a professor and scientist at Massey University in
New Zealand. This species is bigger and more brightly coloured than the previous one and found in
native forests in Northland, Bay of Plenty, Waikato and Coromandel in the upper North Island.
Crotalaria lamelliformis: New Species Discovered from Chittoor, Andhra Pradesh

A team of Botanists has discovered a new species of Calycinae genus named “Crotalaria lamelliformis”
in the Sadasivakona grove area a part of Southern Eastern Ghats, in Chittoor district, Andhra
Pradesh.The new species was discovered as a part of the critical investigation from July 2018 to
November 2020.The discovery of “Crotalaria lamelliformis” has been published in “Phytotaxa”, an
international journal.
New species of Diatoms named ‘Epithemia agharkarii’ discovered in the Mula River
The study led by researchers from the Agharkar Research Institute (ARI) discovered a new species of
Diatoms in the Mula River, Pune, Maharashtra. They named the species Epithemia agharkarii after S P
Agharkar who was the founder-director of the institute ARI.
African Elephants listed under IUCN Red List as Endangered & Critically Endangered
On 25th March 2021, The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed the African
Elephants: African forest elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis) as Critically Endangered and the African
Savanna Elephant (Loxodonta africana) as Endangered in the IUCN Red List. As a result of new genetic
findings, the African Elephants are classified into 2 groups Forest & Savanna Elephant.
Methylobacterium ajmalii: new bacteria found on ISS named after Indian Scientist Ajmal Khan
New bacterial strains were found in different locations on the International Space Station (ISS). The
new species is named “Methylobacterium ajmalii” to honour the renowned Indian biodiversity scientist,
Dr. Ajmal Khan, a former professor at Annamalai University, Tamil Nadu.The genome analysis of
Methylobacterium ajmalii revealed the presence of genes that are involved in promoting plant growth.
The findings of the study were published in the journal “Frontiers in Microbiology”.

Two New Red Seaweed species discovered along India’s Coastline
A Group of marine botanists led by Researcher Felix Bast from the Central University of Punjab,
Bathinda (CUPB) have discovered 2 New red algal seaweed species – ‘Hypnea Indica’ (after India) &
‘Hypnea Bullata’ (Presence of blister like marks on its body) along the coasts of Kanyakumari in Tamil
Nadu & in Gujarat and Daman & Diu. It is the 1st time that red algal species of seaweeds have been
discovered along Indian coasts.

GA Questions Asked in Exams
• GA Questions asked in RRB PO Mains Exam 2021 – Jan 30

• GA Questions asked in SBI PO Mains 2021 – Jan 29
• SBI Clerk Mains 2020
• IBPS RRB Officer Scale II GBO Exam 2020
• RBI Assistant Mains 2020
• GA Questions Asked in IBPS Clerk Mains Exam 2020 – 90% Questions Covered by AC
• GA Questions asked in SBI PO 2019 Main Exam
• GA Questions asked in SBI Clerk Main Exam 2019
• GA Questions asked in IBPS PO Main Exam 2019
• GA Questions asked in RBI Grade B Prelims Exam 2019
• GA Questions asked in IBPS RRB Clerk Mains Exam 2019
• GA Questions asked in IBPS RRB PO Mains Exam 2019
All The Best for Your Exams!!!

Suggestions & Feedback are welcomed
Support@affairscloud.com

March Pocket

Uploaded by

Document Information

Original Title

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

March Pocket

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

Current Affairs Pocket PDF

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 1

This is Paid PDF provided by AffairsCloud.com, Our team is working hard

AffairsCloud launched a new long awaited mobile app.

Get Extra 10% Discount code: “PDF10”

Free Course Names: i. Learn Current Affairs in English

ii. Learn Current Affairs in Hindi

Click here to Download the CareersCloud APP

Suggestions & Feedback are welcomed

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 2

Current Affairs Pocket PDF – March 2021

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 3

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 4

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 5

Cabinet Approvals on March 10, 2021

Cabinet Approvals on March 16, 2021

Cabinet Approvals on March 23, 2021

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 6

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 7

President Ram Nath Kovind gives Assent to 3 Major Bills

STATEWISE NATIONAL NEWS

Maithri Aquatech set up the ‘World’s first mobile water-from-air kiosk’

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 8

Arunachal Pradesh CM Pema Khandu launched ‘Dekho Apna Pradesh’

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 9

Jammu and Kashmir

Chinar Day Observed in Jammu and Kashmir

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 10

Madhya Pradesh CM Shivraj Singh Chouhan Launched The Mission Gramodaya

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 11

Odisha Govt. to set up ‘Mission Shakti’ Department to strengthen SHGs

Odisha celebrates 100th anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s Visit to Cuttack

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 12

Rajasthan Government to launch ‘Universal Health Scheme’ from May 1, 2021

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 13

UP CM Launches ‘Path Pradarshak’ Free Coaching Facility for Competitive exams

UP CM Inaugurated Shaheed Ashfaq Ulla Khan Zoo in Purvanchal

LAUNCHES & INAUGURATION

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 14

MoHUA launches Field Assessment of Swachh Survekshan 2021

Harsh Vardhan launches “CSIR Floriculture Mission”

India’s first forest healing centre inaugurated in Ranikhet, Uttarakhand

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 15

PM Modi releases Manuscript with Comments by 21 scholars on “Shlokas” of Srimad

PM Inaugurated the Curtain Raiser Activities of ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ (India@75)

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 16

Harsh Vardhan addresses the inaugural session of Techbharat 2021

Maldives inaugurates ‘Fiyavathi Home for Vulnerable Children’ funded by India

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 17

UP Govt Celebrates 3 Day-long ‘Kalanamak Rice Festival’

PM Narendra Modi addresses the 4th Global Ayurveda Festival 2021

UP government organises ‘banana festival’

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 18

India’s first dolphin research centre to start soon in Patna

MTRC System Commissioned in Trains ; First of its Kind in Indian Railways

India to replace TEQIP with MERITE project to improve Technical Education

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 19

China regains its position as India’s Largest Trading Partner

Merger of Rajya Sabha TV & Lok SabhaTV; Replaced by Sansad TV

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 20

President Laid Foundation Stone for Conservation Works at Singorgarh Fort in MP

India’s first ‘Transgender Community Desk’ opens in Telangana’s Gachibowli

Report Errors in the PDF - ebooks@affairscloud.com Copyright 2014-2021 @ AffairsCloud.Com 21