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Current Affairs [PDF] - March 16-31, 2020

Highlights
The Lock Heed Martin AEHF (Advanced Extremely High Frequency) satellite was launched from Florida. The
satellite is to provide global protected communications. This will enhance tactical operating warfare skills
of the US on ground, aerial and maritime platform.
US Space Force
The US Space force is the sixth service of the country. The first five major services of Defence includes
Army, Air Force, Navy, Naval Corps and Coast Guard. The Space Force was recently set up by President
Trump to identify and develop new space defence technologies.
The Space Force is to prove US dominance in the Space among other force that are quietly establishing
their powers in Space. This includes China and Russia.
Odisha sets up COVID-19 dedicated hospitals with 1,000 beds
On March 27, 2020, the Odisha Government announced that it is to set up two COVID-19 dedicated hospitals
under PPP (Public Private Partnership) model.
Highlights
Around 84,000 people have returned from abroad in the state. There are so far three positive cases in the
state. The Government forecasting the spread of the virus has prepared isolated dedicated hospitals under
PPP model where only COVID-19 patients are to be treated.
Operation
The funds for the hospitals were brought in from CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) funds. The Orissa
Mining Corporation and Mahanadi Coal Limited (a Coal India Subsidiary) brought in Rs 500 crores.
Recently GoI had allowed the Corporates to use the CSR funds towards COVID-19 containment. Usually
these funds are to be used by the corporate towards social and economic development of backward region.
Lessons from Italy
Today, the COVID-19 spread at its fastest pace in Italy. This was because, Italy had close business tie ups
with China. Also, Italy treated COVID-19 patients in general hospitals. This increased the spread of the virus.
By studying this and to avoid such situation, Odisha has set up separate hospitals.
Other Measures
The Panchayats have kept 7,200 beds ready for quarantine and isolation purposes.
Facts Box: Mo Jeeban Programme
The “Mo Jeeban Programme” was launched by the Odisha Government to contain the spread of COVID-19.
The programme was launched by the Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik.
Highlights
‘Mo Jeeban’ means ‘My Life’. The State Government through the programme appeals to the people to stay
indoors. The programme urges the working population to take an oath in name of their children and parents
to cooperate and support by not stepping outside. It also raises awareness of washing hands at least for 20
seconds.
Other Measures
The Odisha Government has allocated Rs 200 crores to fight against the virus. Currently there are more than
80,000 people who have returned from abroad in Odisha. These people have been instructed to stay under
home quarantine for 14 days.
The Odisha Government has also launched 2 separate hospitals under PPP model. Currently the number of
people infected with COVID-19 in Odisha is 3 and in India is around 700.
India begins antibody tests for Corona Virus
India is all set to begin antibody tests to confirm if a person was previously infected with the virus. This will
help understand the epidemiology of Covid-19.

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