2020 February

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Current Affairs [PDF] - February 1-29, 2020
Last Updated: June 01, 2020
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Contents
February 1, 2020
1. Economic Survey: National Food Security Act Coverages should be reduced
2. Economic Survey suggests “Assemble In India Model” to create 80 million jobs
3. Corona Virus: India bans respiratory masks export as Indians evacuated from China
4. India-Africa Defence Ministers Conclave at DefExpo for first time
5. Fiscal Deficit of GoI touched 132% of full year target
6. Budget 2020-21 presented by Finance Minister: The Themes, GST Reforms
7. Budget 2020: 2.83 lakh Crore Rupees allocated to Agriculture and Rural Development
8. Budget 2020: Wellness, Water and Sanitation
9. Budget 2020: 99,300 crores and 3,000 crores allocated for Education and Skill Development
February 2, 2020
10. Budget 2020: Economic Development-Commerce, Industries and Infrastructure
11. Budget 2020: Caring Society: Women and Child, Social Welfare, Culture & Tourism, Env & Climate Change
12. Budget 2020: Governance
13. Budget 2020: Financial Sector
February 3, 2020
14. India-Maldives sign MoU to establish Addu Tourism
15. Matla Abhiyan: Coastal Security Exercise conducted by Indian Navy
16. Mohammed Allawi appointed the PM of Iraq amidst Tishreen Revolution in the country
17. National Emergency Declared in Pakistan to fight against Locusts in the border
18. Corona virus: G7 Health Ministerial meet, China’s New Hospital, Travel ban by 4 countries
19. Import duty on Green Energy Equipment hiked by 20% in Budget 2020-21
20. National Calamity Contingent Duty increased in Budget-Concerns of Tobacco institute
21. Portal Santusht launched: To implement policies of Labour Ministry at grass root level
22. SFURTI Scheme update given in the Parliament-Rs 2.3 crores budget allocated
23. APEDA signs MoU to set up a Liason Office in Guwahati, Assam
February 4, 2020
24. Minister of North East Development chairs Ujh (National) Multipurpose Project, Jammu Kashmir
25. February 4: World Cancer Day
26. Facts Box: World Wetlands Day
27. Australian Open: Novak Djokovic won the title for the eighth time
28. PMMVY awards: Madhya Pradesh wins; Manipur won among NE states
29. Supreme Court directs states to set up Gram Nyayalayas
30. India develops new Vaccine to control Swine Fever
31. New Natural Gas Reserves discovered in UAE
32. WHO report: Cancer Cases to increase by 81% in 2040
February 5, 2020
33. Western Railways begins branding of its locomotives to improves its non-freight revenue
34. Udyanotsav inaugurated by the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan
35. WHO on Corona Virus: Virus is not yet pandemic
36. East Asia Summit on Maritime Cooperation to be held in Chennai
37. India-South Korea hold meeting to enhance Bilateral Security Cooperation
38. National Productivity Council study: Fertilizer use reduced by 10% with the use of soil cards
39. DefExpo 2020: India’s target in Defence Sector is 5 billion USD in next 5 years
40. DefExpo 2020: Uttar Pradesh is to sign 23 MoUs and create 3 lakh job opportunities
41. Cabinet approves amendment to bring Cooperative Banks under RBI Regulation
42. India Russia sign first ever Term Contract to import crude oil to India
February 6, 2020
43. The Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas bill introduced in Lok Sabha by the Finance Minister
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44. Pink City-Jaipur receives World Heritage Certificate from UNESCO
45. Atal Innovation Mission joins with several ministries to stimulate innovation in India
46. Cabinet approves to set up Vardhavan port in Maharashtra
47. Karnataka launches Janasevaka Scheme
48. Intellectual Property Index: India ranks 40th
49. Cabinet approves to give status of Institution of National Importance to 5 IIITs
50. Rakhi Halder wins gold medal at the Women’s National Weightlifting Championship
51. US President Donald Trump acquitted at the Senate
52. RBI releases bi-monthly policy: Repo rate unchanged
February 8, 2020
53. DRDO signs agreement with Russia’s Rosoboronexport at the DefExpo, 2020
54. MPEDA to upgrade 25 fishing harbours in India
55. India International Seafood Show held in Kochi
56. 14 MoUs signed at 5th India-Russia Industrial Conference
57. Sharang artillery Gun inducted into Indian Army
58. Bandhan: Transfer of Technology Ceremony held at DefExpo
59. Pangolin identified as the host of Corona Virus in China
60. WHO organizes Global Research Forum on Corona Virus
61. RBI to release Digital Payment Index by July 2020
February 9, 2020
62. India-Central Asia Business Council launched in New Delhi
63. DefExpo: India-UK sign MoU to strengthen Defence and Aerospace Relations
64. First Disha Police Station inaugurated in Andhra Pradesh to work on violence against women
65. BBIN nations deliberated on MoU to implement Motor Vehicle Agreement
66. National Conference on E-Governance held in Mumbai; National E-Governance Awards presented
67. Facts Box: Lucknow Declaration of India-Africa Defence Ministers’ Conclave
68. Sri Lankan Prime Minister visits India: Terrorism and Trade discussed
69. Best Performing Smart Cities paired up with least performing to work as SISTER CITIES
70. February 9: Ravidas Jayanti celebrated across India
February 10, 2020

71. Kaamya Karthikeyan: Mumbai Girl becomes the youngest to climb Mt Aconcagua
72. Africa Union Summit held at Addis Ababa
73. Parth: World’s Cheapest Gun Shot Locator developed by Indian Army
74. Corona Virus Ranking: India ranks 17 in importing Corona Virus
75. NASA sends probes to map poles of the sun
76. Cauvery Delta of Tamil Nadu declared Protected Agricultural Zone
77. NCRB report on women and child trafficking: Mumbai and Kolkata highest
78. India to host 13th COP of UN’s Conservation of Migratory Species; PM Modi to inaugurate
79. National Snooker championship: Aditya Mehta defeats multiple time world champion
80. February 10: National Deworming Day
February 11, 2020

81. First Jerusalem-Mumbai festival held in Mumbai
82. Ajeya Warrior: India-UK to hold joint military exercise
83. Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2020 won by Bangladesh for the first time
84. United Nations World Pulses Day celebrated in New Delhi
85. Web Portal launched to provide star rating of coal mines
86. Amazon invests 1.5 billion USD for two Data Centres under Data Centre Policy of Telangana
87. Public Enterprises Survey: Air India, MTNL, BSNL highest loss makings PSUs in FY19
88. Disaster Management Exercise of BIMSTEC NDRF begins in Bhubaneswar
89. February 11: International Day of Women and Girls in Science
90. Sale of Integrated Air Defence Weapon System to India approved by US
February 12, 2020

91. WHO names the new Corona Virus: “COVID-19”
92. Medical Devices now to be regulated under Drugs and Cosmetics Act
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93. Bhabha Kavach: New bullet proof jacket developed by BARC-to be used by CISF
94. Ground Water Act, 2020 approved by UP cabinet
95. GoI released Draft Visionary Perspective Plan (2020-30) to Conserve Avian Ecosystem ahead of CMS COP-
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96. Corona Virus Vaccine: UK starts testing on Mice; WHO says vaccine to be ready in 18 months
97. February 11: World Unani Day: Birth Anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan celebrated
98. National Winter Games to be held in Gulmarg
99. 43rd Session of International fund for Agricultural Development: UN SDG 2030 not achievable
100. Cabinet Approves amendment of Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement with Sri Lanka
February 13, 2020

101. Cabinet Approval: Capital Infusion in three public sector Units OICL, UIICL and NICL
102. Cabinet Approval: India-Iceland MoU in Sustainable Fisheries Development
103. Cabinet approves Pesticide Management Bill 2020
104. Cabinet approves changes in Vivad Se Vishwas bill, 2020
105. Ayushman Bharat: School Health Ambassador initiative launched
106. February 13: World Radio Day
107. Draft Rules for International Arbitration Centre issued by GoI
108. “Apiary on Wheels” launched: A Unique Concept to help bee keeping, achieve National Honey Mission
109. BIMSTEC: Conference on Combating Drug Trafficking inaugurated
110. INS Jamuna deployed on Hydrographic Survey off coast Sri Lanka
February 14, 2020

111. President’s Colours Awards to INS Shivaji on its 75 years of Service
112. Foreign Envoys from Gulf and EU visit Jammu and Kashmir for the second time
113. GoI hosts National Organic Food Festival in New Delhi
114. India to partially open up Poultry and Diary Markets to imports from US
115. International Hockey Federation names Indian Hockey Captain “Player of the Year”, 2019
116. Portugal President to make a 4-day visit to India
117. UN’s IFAD Governing Council: Climate Change will push 100 millions to poverty
118. Antarctica recorded the hottest temperature of 20.75 degrees Celsius
119. India-Portugal sign 7 agreements
120. GoI approves two AIIMS institutes and 9 medical colleges for Jammu and Kashmir
February 15, 2020

121. India attends Munich Security Conference in Germany
122. Cha-Chai Art Work inaugurated at National Museum by Portuguese president
123. Anniversary of Pulwama Attack: Memorial inaugurated
124. First Inter-City Electric Bus to operate between Mumbai and Pune
125. IISS Study: World Defence spending biggest in 10 years
126. February 15: World Pangolin Day; GoI radio tagged Pangolins first time to learn their Ecology
127. “Global Investor Summit” for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir; Road Shows to attract investments
128. Milan 2020: Biggest Multilateral Naval Exercise in the Indian Ocean Region
129. Nagpur Oranges Exported to Dubai first Time
130. First Integrated Tri-Service Command to be set up in June by the Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)
February 16, 2020

131. ISRO to launch 10 Earth Imaging Satellites in 2020 including first Geo Imaging Satellite-1
132. RBI Syncs Financial Year with the Fiscal Year
133. PM Modi inaugurates 50 projects worth 1000 crores in Varanasi
February 17, 2020

134. India and Norway to work towards mitigating marine plastic littering
135. BioAsia Summit 2020 to be held in Hyderabad
136. India marks the beginning of “Super Year of Biodiversity” with CMS COP 13
137. The First United Nations Biodiversity Summit CMS COP-13 in India: 3 Migratory Mammals Targeted
138. United Nations Bio Diversity Summit to discuss threats to Migratory Species from Infrastructural
Development
139. CMS COP 13: Insects Decline to be discussed for the first time
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140. Government of Haryana provides Rs 15 lakhs to Olympic participants and Rs 6 crore to winners
141. Supreme Court permits Permanent Commissioning of Women Officers in Defence
142. Chief of Navy Admiral Karambir Singh visits Myanmar
143. Teams set up by Health Ministry to monitor Corona Virus in villages at Nepal Border
144. Ladakh and J&K to come under Central Administrative Tribunal
145. Atal Bhujal Yojana: GoI and World Bank signed loan agreement of 450 million USD
146. US removed “Developing” Tag for India: What are its implications?
February 18, 2020

147. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: 4th National Conference held in Udaipur
148. GoI: 5th Meeting of Task Force of Active Pharmaceuticals Ingredients discuss Corona Virus
149. India attends 3rd Global Conference on Road Safety held in collaboration with WHO, World Bank
150. What is Adjusted Gross Revenue?
151. Economic Census begins at the National Capital Region
152. 14,100 tonnes of the rare metal, Lithium Reserves found in India
153. Kala Kumbh: Exhibition to promote GI crafts and Heritage of India held in New Delhi
154. India and Russia Defence Deals to cross 16 billion USD after DefExpo 2020
February 19, 2020

155. Indian Bird Species have declined by 80% says State of India’s Birds Report at CMS COP 13
156. February 19: Soil Health Card Day
157. Task Force Meet: India and Norway to strengthen their BLUE ECONOMY PARTNERSHIP
158. National Institutes renamed after late Union Ministers Sushma, Arun Jaitley and Manohar Parrikar
159. Foundation Stone for Lighthouse at Dhanushkodi laid
160. Pakistan Test Fires 600 km range Ra’ad II missile successfully
161. IISc ranked 16th in Times Higher Education Ranking
162. India shifts towards clean Diesel and Petrol from April 1
163. Delhi Airport: The First Single-use Plastic-free airport
164. After English and Mandarin, Hindi-the third most spoken language in the world
165. Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill approved by Union Cabinet
166. 22nd Law Commission of India approved by the Union Cabinet
February 20, 2020

167. China moves against Pakistan in FATF, Turkey now the only supporter
168. GoI to launch “TILHAN Mission” to make India Self Reliant in oil seed Production
169. Cabinet approves Phase II of Swachh Bharat Mission
170. Manipur- the major role player of Act East Policy
171. Cabinet approves to set up a 12-member Technology Group
172. Union Cabinet approves Revamping of PM Fasal Bima Yojana and RWBCIS schemes to address challenges
173. NITI Aayog organizes North East Sustainable Development Goal Conclave 2020 in Assam
174. February 20: Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh celebrate their Statehood Day
175. GoI sets up Consumer Protection Authority to implement Consumer Protection Act
176. India ranks 77 on sustainability index and 131 on Flourishing Index
177. Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) tops in Nature Ranking Index-2020
178. World Wide Education for the Future Index: India jumps to rank 35
179. Animal Culture linked to its Conservation at CMS COP 13 for the first time
February 21, 2020

180. February 21: International Mother Language Day
181. Asian Elephant, Great Indian Bustard and Bengal Florican classified as “Endangered Migratory Species” at
CMS COP13
182. One Million Dollar Worth Prizes created by Sweden for sustainable Food Solutions
183. President’s Secretary Sanjay Kothari named the next CVC by PM led panel
184. Revision of interest subvention under Diary Processing and Infrastructure Development Fund from 2% to
2.5%
185. RBI launches 5-year Financial Inclusion Strategy
186. Fourth Anniversary of Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission celebrated
187. Maharashtra Government orders to destroy “Thai Mangur” fish breeding centres
188. IIT to set up Data Science Centre at Kanjikode campus
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189. First Khelo India University Games to be held in Bhuwaneshwar
190. National Organic Food Festival inaugurated in New Delhi
February 24, 2020

191. International Judicial Conference held in New Delhi
192. February 24: PM-Kisan Scheme completes one year
193. Temperature controlled largest Terminal to store Agro and Pharma Products launched at Mumbai airport
194. US to sign peace deal with Taliban forces to end war in Afghanistan
195. ICMR Report says Delhi and Ahmedabad tops in added-fat consumption
196. Artificial Intelligence based Chatbot ASKDISHA launched by the Railways
197. Facts Box: Thal Sena Bhawan, the new Army Headquarters
198. February 24: Central Excise Day
199. PM Kisan Mobile App launched to succeed “Doubling Farmer Income by 2022”
200. NITI Aayog Report: 28% of Aadhaar based payment are going to wrong accounts
201. Facts Box: Cheetah Reintroduction Project
February 25, 2020

202. US President Donald Trump visits India: Signs Defence Deals
203. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad resigns
204. GoI launches “SPICe+” to improve Ease of Doing Business in the country
205. Minister reviews progress of meeting of Institute of Eminence
206. February 25: First anniversary of National War Memorial commemorated
207. Human Resources Development Ministry presents Vishwakarma Awards
208. GoI: More firearms for Indian Shooters and others should surrender excess guns
209. Committee submits report on Clause 6 of Assam Accord
210. Five Judges of Supreme Court infected with Swine Flu; Ministry of Health takes immediate actions
211. President Trump visit to India: 2 MoUs and 1 Letter of Cooperation signed
212. What is Happiness Curriculum in Government Schools attended by Melania Trump?
213. Report says Dolphins of Odisha’s Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary has halved
February 26, 2020

214. EEESL of GoI completes one successful year in making India Energy Efficient
215. 30 Years Egypt Ruler Mohammed Hosni Mubarak passes away
216. What is Counter Cyclical Fiscal Policy of GoI?
217. India-US MoU on Mental Health: Indian Traditional Therapies to be exchanged for US Generic Drugs
218. GISAT 1: New Age Satellite to monitor India continuously to be launched on March 5
219. Indian National Centre for Ocean Information launched new Alert System
220. DPIIT notifies 100% Foreign Direct Investment in Insurance Intermediaries
221. Desert Locust Control High Level Meeting held
222. Indra Dhanush Exercise 2020: India-UK joint Air Force Exercise held at Air Force Station Hindon
February 27, 2020

223. National Technical Textiles Mission approved by Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs
224. RAISE 2020: An International “Artificial Intelligence” Summit to be organised by GoI
225. Union Cabinet approves changes introduced in Surrogacy (Regulation) bill
226. EASE 3.0 launched by the Finance Minister to enhance Ease of Banking
227. Cabinet Approval: Occupancy rights to Scheduled Tribes of Lakshadweep
228. Market Intelligence and Early Warning Systems to monitor prices of Onion, Tomato and Potato
229. Largest conference on traditional medicine: AYUSH Terminologies and their Standardisation held in New
Delhi
230. VAJRA: The Offshore Patrol Vessel-6 launched at Chennai
231. Sri Lanka withdraws from UNHRC Resolution
February 28, 2020

232. Myanmar President Visits India: India-Myanmar sign 10 MoUs
233. Light Combat Helicopter Production inaugurated in HAL Bengaluru
234. NITI Aayog launches Artificial Intelligence Modules in Schools
235. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana: 32 projects sanctioned
236. GoI to establish Central Consumer Protection Authority
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237. February 28: National Science Day
238. GoI to increase reach of banking in the North-East Tea Garden areas
239. Eastern Zonal Council Meet to be held in Bhubaneswar
February 29, 2020

240. Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana: PM distributes aids and devices to Divyangjan and Senior Citizens
241. Mission Purvodaya: India-Japan join hands to make Odisha a Steel Hub
242. PM Modi launches 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations
243. February 29: World Rare Disease Day
244. World Productivity Congress in India after 45 years of gap
245. ICGS Varad: First Major Defence ship to clear all acceptance Trials in a Single Sea Sortie
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February 1, 2020
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1. Economic Survey: National Food Security Act Coverages should be

reduced
The Economic Survey was tabled by the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman in the
Parliament on January 31, 2019. The Survey says that the subsidies under National Food
Security Act (NFSA) should be sharply reduced
1. Highlights
The Survey suggests that the coverage of the act should be reduced to 20% of the
population. On the other hand, these funds should be diverted towards incentivizing
environmentally sustainable production. Also, more focus should be laid to replenish the
food grain economy that has been riddled due to several economic inefficiencies.
2. Current Scenario of NFSA

At present, around 67% of the Indian households are entitled to 5 kilograms of
subsidized wheat and rice per person per month. Over 800 million are benefitted from
food subsidy scheme.
2. Economic Survey suggests “Assemble In India Model” to create 80

million jobs
The Economic Survey 2019-20 suggests a new idea of “Assemble in India” model to
create 80 million jobs in the country. The model will also help India achieve its 5 trillion
USD economy target.
1. Highlights
The report suggests that India should benefit from the China-US trade war situation by
increasing export manufacturing. It also says that China has been performing well in
exports mainly due to large scale labour intensive activities. Chinese import components
and assemble in China. This creates immense job opportunities.
2. Assemble in India Model

The Assemble in India for the world should be integrated with Make in India. This will
increase export market share by 3.5% in 2025 and 6% in 2030.
3. Current Scenario
India contributes only 2% of world trade. With China-US trade war, firms are looking for
alternative locations. Also, labour shortages and increase in wages in China are ideal for
India to grab global markets.
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3. Corona Virus: India bans respiratory masks export as Indians
evacuated from China
On January 31, 2020, the Government of India banned respiratory masks, clothing used
to protect from air borne particles and other personal protection equipment. The move
has been implemented as a precautionary step assuming there could be a spurt in
demand of these products due to Corona Virus.
1. Highlights
A 423-seater plane has been sent to China to evacuate Indians from China. The move is
being done due to the outbreak of novel Corona Virus in China. At this scenario, India is
to bring around 400 Indians from China.
2. Quarantine Facilities
The death toll in China due to the Corona Virus has increased to 213 and the number of
confirmed cases has increased to 9,000. In order to screen them, the Indian Army has
set a quarantine facility in Manesar.
3. Current Scenario
There are more than 300 Indian students in the Chinese province of Hubei, which is the
epicenter of the virus outbreak. The Manesar quarantine is being created exclusively for
these students. They are to be monitored for 2 weeks.
4. India-Africa Defence Ministers Conclave at DefExpo for first time
For the first time, in the history of DefExpo, India and Africa are to discuss their defence
relations. The India-Africa Defence Conclave is to be held on February 6, 2020. Around
24 Defence Ministers are to participate in the conclave.
1. Highlights
India’s largest Defence Exhibition is to be held in Lucknow between February 5, 2020
and February 8, 2020. During the exhibition, India showcases its existing and new
defence technologies to the world. As a part of the event, the India-Africa Defence
Conclave is to be held.
2. India-Africa
So far, the eastern and Southern African countries alone have shown interests in defence
ties with India. However, the novelty of this conclave is that the western African
countries are expected to come forward.
5. Fiscal Deficit of GoI touched 132% of full year target
On January 31, 2020, the Controller General of Accounts (CGA) released data on fiscal
deficit of Government of India. According to the report, the fiscal deficit of India touched
132.4% of the full-year target in December, 2019.
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1. Highlights
The gap between revenue and expenditure is terms as fiscal deficit. According to the
CGA data, the fiscal deficit was 9,31,725 crores of rupees. During 2018-19 budget, the
fiscal deficit was 112.4%. GoI is trying to reduce the deficit to 7,03,760 crores by the end
of March 2020.
2. Economic Survey on Fiscal Deficit

The Economic Survey that was released recently suggests that the fiscal deficit target of
3.3% of GDP has to be relaxed. It suggests to reduce the deficit to 3% of GDP in 2020-
21.
6. Budget 2020-21 presented by Finance Minister: The Themes, GST

Reforms
The Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman presented the Budget 2020-21 on February 1,
2020. The budget focused on enhancing purchasing power of citizens and boosting their
incomes. It has also given importance to technology and innovation to increase
employment of the youths.
1. Structural Reforms
The structural reforms include recapitalization of banks through IBC (Insolvency and
Bankruptcy Code). The debt of the country has been reduced from 52.2% of GDP in 2014
to 48.7% of GDP in 2019.
1.1. GST Reforms

 Under GST, an average household saves 4% of its savings.
 In the year 2019-20, 60 lakh new tax payers were added, 40 crores of returns filed, 800 crore
invoices uploaded and 105 e-way bills have been generated. GST helped to reducing the
turnaround time for trucks by 20%.
 The Inspector Raj system has been vanished. Under this, the state and national permits
including road tax, fitness certificate pollution certificate for trucks were removed.
2. Inclusive Growth
The Growth Rate was 4% in 1950s, 6% in 1980s and reached an average of 7.4% in
2016. The inflation for the period 2014-19 stood at 4.5%. Around 271 million people
were brought out of poverty in 2006-16.
3. Themes of the budget

The themes were
7. Budget 2020: 2.83 lakh Crore Rupees allocated to Agriculture and

Rural Development
The Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman presented the Budget 2020-21 on February 1,
2020. The Minister has allocated Rs 2.83 lakh crore rupees for the agriculture and rural
development sector.
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1. POINT 1 — Encourage State Governments to implement Model Laws
The Budget aims to encourage the state governments to implement the following model
laws
2. POINT 2 — Comprehensive Measures for 100 Water Stressed Districts
3. POINT 3 — Help 20 lakh farmers setup standalone solar pumps

In the previous budget, the government aimed to reduce the dependence of farmers on
diesel or petrol water pumps through PM-KUSUM. It aimed to increase the usage of grid
connected solar water pumps.
4. POINT 4 — Reducing incentives to chemical fertilizers & promoting organic

The budget aims to encourage the use of organic and chemical free fertilizers. This is to
change the current set up of incentivized use of chemical fertilizers.
5. POINT 5 — NABARD to Geo Tag and map warehouses

At present, India has capacity of 162 million metric tonnes of storage and warehousing.
With an allocated budget, NABARD will map and Geo Tag these warehouses.
6. POINT 6 — Village Storage Scheme

The village storage scheme is to be proposed. The storage houses will be run by the SHG
(Self Help Group). Importance under the scheme will be given to the Women SHGs.
Under the scheme, the group will get loan from NABARD to store food grains. This will
help farmers to increase their holding capacities.
7. POINT 7 — Kisan Rail under PPP model launched

Also, Indian Railways will set up Kisan Rail to transport perishable goods under the PPP
(Public Private Partnership) model. New refrigerated freight trains will be launched. This
will help to build seamless national cold supply chain for perishables such as meat, milk
and fish.
8. POINT 8 — Krishi UDAN to be launched

Apart from trains the government also aims at launching air transport. The Ministry of
Civil Aviation will operate new flights to fulfil transport of perishable goods. This will
immensely help the north east and tribal districts.
9. POINT 9 — One District One Product extended to Horticulture

The current produce of Horticulture sector is 311 million Metric tonnes. According to the
Ministry of Finance, the horticultural produce exceeds the production of food grains. The
budget aims to support states that are willing to adopt the cluster basis focus on “One
District One Product” programme.
10. POINT 10 — Integrated Farming systems in Rain fed areas to be expanded

Multi-tear cropping, Bee keeping, solar pumps, solar energy production in non-cropping
season are to be added. The Jaivik Kheti (National Project on Organic Farming) is to be
strengthened. It is a portal for online organic products.
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11. POINT 11 — NWR integrated with ENAM
The financing of Negotiable Warehouse Receipts (NWR) has already crossed 6,000
crores. Therefore, the e-NWR is now to be integrated with ENAM (Electronic National
Agriculture Market)
12. POINT 12 — 15 lakh crore agricultural credit

The Non-Banking Finance companies and the agricultural cooperative play a major role
in agricultural development. The NABARD refinancing the agricultural credit will receive
15 lakh crore for the year 2020-21.
13. POINT 13 — Milk production 108 million MT by 2025

The budget has allocated funds to address the foot and mouth disease issues. It also
includes Brucellosis in cattle and PPR (Peste des petits ruminant) in goats and sheep.
14. POINT 14 — Blue Economy-Fish Production boosted to 200 lakh tonnes

A framework is to be put in place to develop and manage conservation of marine
fisheries resources. The youth in coastal areas are to be trained in fish processing and
marketing. GoI aims to increase the fish production to 200 lakh tonnes by 2022-23. The
GoI also intends to promote Growing of algae, sea weeds and cage culture.
15. POINT 15 — Fish Farmer Producer Organization (Fish FPO) introduced

Through 3,477 SAGAR Mitras and 500 fish farmer producer organization fish production
is to be boosted. The youths in the coastal areas and inland fishing areas are to be
trained as SAGAR Mitras.
16. POINT 16 — SHGs of Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana to be mobilised

Under Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana, currently 58 lakh SHGs have been mobilized. They
are to be mobilized further.
17. FUND ALLOCATION

For the sector of Agriculture, irrigation, rural development and allied activities 2.83 lakh
crore rupees has been allocated. Out of this, for agriculture and irrigation, 1.6 lakh
crores has been allocated. For rural development and Panchayati Raj 1.23 lakh crore
rupees has been allocated.
18. Schemes
The GoI is working on the agricultural target of doubling farmers income by 2022. The
schemes that were highlighted to achieve the target are as follows
8. Budget 2020: Wellness, Water and Sanitation
On February 1, 2020, the Finance Minister presented the Budget for the financial year
2020-21. The GoI gives utmost importance to health sector. The GoI under the Budget
2020-21 aims to provide wellness, water and sanitation by allocating funds for following
schemes.
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1. Ayushman Bharat
Under PMJAY, there are more than 20,000 empaneled hospitals in the country. More such
hospitals are to be empaneled in Tier II and Tier III cities. Under the scheme, the budget
allocates viability gap funding in PPP mode. In Phase I, the 112 aspirational districts are
to be covered. Out of these, the districts without empaneled hospitals are to be given
priority.
2. TB Harega Desh Jeetega

The campaign was launched to fight Tuberculosis and eliminate the disease from the
country by 2025. The budget allocates funds to strengthen the campaign and realize the
target.
3. Jan Aushadi Jendra Scheme

The scheme is to be expanded to all districts. The aim is to make 2000 medicine and 300
surgical equipment available in all districts. This is to be realized by 2024.
4. FUND ALLOCATION FOR HEALTH

The Health Sector has been allocated 69,000 crores. This includes the 6,400 crores of
rupees allocated for PMJAY.
5. SANITATION
5.1. Swachh Bharat Mission-FUND ALLOCATION

The GoI is committed to Open Defecation Free India (ODF). It is currently implementing
ODF+ that aims to sustain ODF. The GoI now under the Budget aims to work towards
Liquid and Grey water management. It will also focus towards solid waste collection,
source segregation and processing. The Budget has allocated 12,300 crores of rupees
for the Swachh Bharat Mission.
6. WATER
6.1. Jal Jeevan Mission-FUND ALLOCATION

The mission aims to provide clean piped drinking water to all households. The GoI has
already approved 3.6 lakh crore rupees for the mission.
7. Other Schemes
The other schemes that were given importance by the Budget are as follows
9. Budget 2020: 99,300 crores and 3,000 crores allocated for Education
and Skill Development
The Budget 2020 was presented at the Parliament under three themes. One of the
themes is Aspirational India. The Education and Skills is a Sub theme of Aspirational
India. The other two sub themes of Aspirational India are
1. Higher Education Institutes

Over 150 Higher Education institutes will start apprenticeship embedded degree diploma
courses by March 2021.
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2. Internship by ULD
The Budget allocated funds for the Urban Local Bodies to provide internship
opportunities to the local youths, especially fresh engineers for a period of 1 year. The
man power of local bodies is also limited. This move hence will help address both the
problems.
3. Online Education Portal

To provide high quality education and for the deprived sections of the society that do not
have access to higher education, the budget proposes to start online education portal. In
order to maintain the quality of the courses uploaded in the portal, only top 100
institutes of the country will be allowed to conduct courses in the portal. The institutes
were ranked under National Institutional Ranking Framework.
4. Study in India Programme-“INDSAT” Exam proposed

Under Study in India Programme, INDSAT exam has been proposed in Asian and African
countries. This will help to benchmark foreign candidates receiving scholarships to study
in India.
5. National Police and Forensic Science Universities to be established

The Budget has allocated funds to establish National Police University and National
Forensic Universities. They will focus on the domains of policing science, forensic science
and cyber forensics.
6. Doctors’ inadequacy addressed

The Budget proposes medical colleges to be established along with district hospitals in
PPP mode to address the problem of lack of qualified medical doctors. The states that
are willing to allocate land and address the issue will be provided with viability gap
funding to construct the colleges.
7. DNB and FNB

The Budget Allocated fund to increase the number of DNB (Diplomate in National Board)
and FNB (Fellowship in National Board) professionals. The exams for these medicine
graduates are conducted by National Board of Examinations. The DNBs are trained at
private hospitals and medical colleges.
8. FUND ALLOCATION
The Budget has allocated 99,300 crores of rupees for the education sector. Also, it
allocated 3,000 crores for skill development.
February 2, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
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10. Budget 2020: Economic Development-Commerce, Industries and
Infrastructure
The Union Budget 2020 was presented by the Finance Minister Shrimati Nirmala
Sitaraman. The budget was presented under three themes namely Aspirational India,
Economic Development and Care Giving. The Economic Development includes
industries, commerce and manufacturing.
1. Investment Clearance Cell to be set up

The Budget proposed to set an Investment Clearance Cell that will provide end to end
support including pre-investment advisory, information related to land banks and
facilitate clearances at centre and state level.
2. 5 new smart cities

The Budget 2020-21 proposes three main activities as the backbone of infrastructure
development. They are
3. Manufacturing
The Budget focuses on the networks of the manufactured products. It aims to make the
chain a part of the global network.
3.1. Electronics Manufacturing

The potential of the Electronics Manufacturing sector in job creation is immense. It is
important for India to boost domestic manufacturing and attract large investments in the
electronics value chain
4. Scheme to encourage mobile phones manufacturing

The Budget proposes a scheme to encourage manufacturing of mobile phones,
electronic equipment and semiconductor packaging. The scheme shall be extended to
medical devices as well.
5. National Technical Textile Mission introduced

India imports 16 billion USD of technical textiles every year. In order to reverse the trend
and position India as a leader in Technical Textile sector, National Technical Textile
Mission is introduced. The mission is to be implemented in 4 years between 2020-21 and
2023-24. The estimated cost of the mission is 1,480 crores.
6. Zero Defect Zero Effect Manufacturing

The Budget proposes to all ministries to issue a Quality Standard Order in order to
remove defects in the manufacturing. PM proposed the Zero Defect Zero Effect
Manufacturing during his speech in Independence Day, 2019.
7. NIRVIK Scheme launched

The scheme aims at Higher Export Credit Disperse. It will also help to achieve higher
expense cover, reduction in premium for small exporters and simplify procedures to
claim settlements.
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8. Scheme for reversion of Duties proposed
The Budget proposes to introduce a new scheme to cover electricity duties, VAT,
transportation fuels. The scheme will cover duties that are not getting exempted under
other existing mechanism. The scheme is to be launched in 2020-21.
9. Districts as Export Hub

The GoI has been working to improve its exports with a target of making every district
an export hub. In order to achieve this, the budget allocated funds for the E-market
places and GeM. They will move ahead to create a single platform for procurement of
goods. This will help the MSME sector. More than 3 lakh vendors are already on the
platform.
10. FUND ALLOCATION

The Budget 2020-21 allocated Rs 27,300 crores for the commerce and industries sector.
11. INFRASTRUCTURE
The GoI is working to achieve its set target of investing 100 lakh crores of rupees in next
five years (announced in 2019). In order to achieve this, the Finance Minister launched
the National Infrastructure Pipeline that will implement 103 lakh crore worth projects.
12. National Infrastructure Pipeline

It consists of more than 6,500 projects. It includes housing, safe drinking water, health
care, access to clean and affordable energy, world class educational institutions, modern
railway stations, bus terminals, airports, railway transportation, Logistics, warehousing
projects and irrigation.
13. Project preparation facility Centre proposed

The facility is to be set up to propose infrastructure projects. It will work towards
improving the skills of the youth and in identifying the talent demands of the country.
The facility will involve young graduates, engineers, economists from Universities. The
facility will also work towards involving many number of youths towards
entrepreneurship.
14. National Logistics Policy to be released

The policy will clarify the role of union government and state governments in the
logistics. The policy will create a single window e-logistics market. The policy will focus
on employment generation, skills and will encourage MSMEs work towards competitivity.
15. Development of Highways

The Budget allocated funds to develop 2,500 km of access-controlled highways, 9,000
km of economic corridors and 2,000 km of coastal and land port roads and 2,000 km of
strategic highway.
16. Indian Railways

The GoI has so far commissioned 550 WiFi Railway Stations in the country. The
unmanned level crossings have been eliminated. It also aims to achieve electrification of
27,000 km of tracks.
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17. Sea Ports
Under Budget 2020-21, the GoI intends to corporatize at least one sea port by the end of
the year and list it under stock exchanges.
18. Inland Water Ways

The Jal Vikas Marg on the National Water Way-1 is to be completed by the end of the
year. Budget allocated funds for its completion processes. The 890km Dubri-Sadiya
national water way in Assam connectivity is to be completed by 2022.
19. Air Traffic

The Budget proposes to develop 100 more airports by 2024 to support UDAN scheme. It
is expected that the air fleet number will increase from 600 to 1200 during this period.
20. FUND ALLOCATION

The Budget allocated 1.7 lakh crores for transport infrastructure.
21. ENERGY SECTOR
22. Electricity and DISCOMs

The distribution of electricity sector, the DISCOMs in particular are under stress. In order
to address the issue, the budget allocated funds to replace the conventional meters to
prepaid smart meters in next 3 years. Through this step, the consumers will be enabled
with the freedom to choose the rates and the suppliers.
23. FUND ALLOCATION

The Budget allocated 22,000 crores for power and renewable energy sector
24. Oil and Natural Gas

The Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) has so far awarded 1 lakh square kilo metres
of area for exploration of private sector. The budget increases the exploration areas. The
National Gas Grid so far runs for 16,200. The Budget proposes to increase this to 27,000
km.
25. Private Data Centre Parks to be established

The New Economy is based on innovation, artificial intelligence, IoT, 3D printing, drones,
DNA, data storage, quantum computing, and established business models. In order to
move ahead in these technologies, the Budget proposes Private Data Centred Parks. A
new policy is to be framed in order to achieve this.
26. Bharat Net

GoI believes that it is essential to communicate with all Gram Panchayats, Health and
Wellness Centres, Anganwadis, Government Schools, PDS outlets, post offices and police
stations. These places are to be provided with Digital connectivity.
27. Intellectual Property

At the Institute of Excellence, a centre is to established that will work towards the
complexity and innovation of the field of Intellectual Property
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28. Knowledge Translation Clusters
The Knowledge Translation Clusters are to be set up under different technologies. This
includes new and emerging sectors as well. It will design fabrication and validate proof
of concept.
29. National Science Schemes

In order to achieve , two National Level Science Schemes to create comprehensive
databases. It will also work towards mapping of India’s genetic medicines, agriculture
and biodiversity management.
30. National Mission on Quantum Technologies and Applications

The Budget allocated 8,000 crores of rupees for the mission. The mission is to be
completed in another 5 years. If India achieves in breaking into the technology, it will be
the third pioneering nation in conquering it.
11. Budget 2020: Caring Society: Women and Child, Social Welfare,
Culture & Tourism, Env & Climate Change
On February 1, 2020, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman presented the Budget
2020 on three main themes. The third theme of the budget is Caring Society. Under this
theme, the GoI allocated budget to Women and Child, Social Welfare and Tourism,
Environment and Climate Change.
1. Women and Child and Social Welfare

Under the Beti Bachao Beti Padao, the Gross Enrolment ratio of girls is higher than boys.
Their enrollment is as follows
2. Poshan Abhiyan
To improve health of children in the age of 0 to 6 years of age, adolescent girls and
lactating women, Poshan Abhiyan was introduced. More than 6 lakhs Anganwadi workers
are equipped with smart phones to upload the status of nutrition of more than 10 crore
house hold.
3. Task Force appointed

The age of marriage for girls was increased from 15 years to 18 years in 1978. This was
done by amending the Sharada act (The Child Marriage Restraint Act), 1929. As India
progresses further, wider opportunities open up. Also, there is lowering of maternal
mortality rates and improvement of nutritional levels. In order to include women in every
aspect of such developments, a task force is to be appointed.
4. FUND ALLOCATION
The Budget 2020-21 allocated 35,600 crores of rupees for the nutrition related
programmes. It also allocates 28,600 crores for programmes of women development.
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5. Manual Scavengers
The Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has identified suitable technologies for
sewerage cleaning. The Ministry is currently working with the urban local bodies for
adoption of these technologies. The budget allocates funds to achieve this and also to
implement legislative changes. The budget will also allocate funds to support wider
acceptance of such technologies.
6. FUND ALLOCATION
Along with manual scavengers, the other section of the society including scheduled class
and OBCs a budget of 85,000 crores has been allocated. For the upliftment of Scheduled
Tribes, a budget of 53,700 crores has been allocated. For Senior citizens and Divyangs
9,500 crores has been allocated.
7. Culture and Tourism
8. Indian Institute of Heritage and Culture to be established

Under the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the GoI proposes to establish an Indian
Institute of Heritage and Culture. It shall have the status of a Deemed University to start
with. It will include course of museology, archaeology and also includes scientific
curriculum of those fields.
9. 5 Archaeological sites to be developed

The GoI has allocated funds to develop 5 archaeological sites with museums. They are
Rakhigarhi in Haryana, Dholavira in Gujarat, Hastinapur in Uttar Pradesh, Sivasagar in
Assam and Adichanallur in Tamil Nadu.
10. India’s stand in tourism

India has move up to rank 65 in 2014 to rank 34 in 2019 in the travel and tourism
competitive index. The index is prepared by the World Economic Forum. The Foreign
Exchange grew 7.4% (between January and November, 2019)
11. FUND ALLOCATION

For Culture the budget allocated 3,150 crores. For Tourism the GoI allocated 2,500
crores.
12. ENVIRONMENT AND CLIMATE CHANGE
13. Closure of old thermal power stations

GoI launched the Global Coalition for Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure in 2015. It will help
in addressing the Sustainable Development Goals.
14. Clean air in cities

The cities are to be encouraged to take actions against pollution to provide clean air for
the citizens. The budget allocated separate funds to achieve this. However, only cities
with population above 1 million are included under this. Incentives will be provided to
such cities that are coming forward to implement such measures. The measures will be
released by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
15. FUND ALLOCATION

GoI allocated 4,400 crores for environment and climate change.
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12. Budget 2020: Governance
In order to achieve minimum government and maximum governance, the Budget 2020-
21 has allocated funds for the following
1. Tax Payer Charter introduced

The Budget allocated funds to institutionalize a Tax Payer Charter. This is to ensure
fairness and avoid harassments in the quest of collecting taxes from the citizens. Only
three countries in the world so far have enshrined the rights of taxpayers namely
Canada, Australia and US Through tax payer charter, India joins the list.
2. National Recruitment Agency to be established

The Companies Act, 2013 is to be amended. Major reforms in the recruitment processes
of non-Gazetted posts in Government administration and public sector banks are to be
introduced. As this process involves immense effort, cost and time, a National
Recruitment Agency is to be established. The Agency will conduct multiple examinations
and also computer based Online Common Eligibility Test. A Test Centre at every
Aspirational District is to be set up.
3. National Policy on Official Statistics to be introduced

The GoI has witnessed the need for the Indian Statistical System to meet the challenges
of the increasing complexity of the economy. In order to achieve this, National Policy on
Official Statistics will be introduced. The policy will lay down a road map towards data
collection, timely dissemination of information and integrated information portal.
4. G 20 presidency of India – FUND ALLOCATION

India is to preside over the G 20 meeting in the year 2022 (the year India is celebrating
its 75th anniversary). To kick start the preparations, by 2021, the Budget has allocated
100 crores.
5. North East and J&K-FUND ALLOCATION

Government has been ensuring smooth access to financial assistance to the North East
Region. Also, the GoI has been supporting the all-round development of newly formed
Union Territories Ladakh and J&K.
13. Budget 2020: Financial Sector
The Budget 2020-21 has been framed on the basis that Governance and Finances are
the two major hands in achieving the three themes of the budget. The three themes
include aspirational India, Economic Development and Caring India
1. Public Sector Banks

The GoI has earlier approved consolidation of 10 major banks into 4. In order to achieve
this a fund of 3,50,000 crores has already been infused into the economy. Still, in order
to make them robust and competitive, budget has allocated funds to carry out reforms in
these banks
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2. Deposit Insurance increased to 5 lakhs
The Depositor Insurance Coverage (DIC) has been increased from 1 lakh to 5 lakh per
depositor. The DIC is looked after by Deposit Insurance and Credit Guarantee
Corporation (DICGC).
3. Amendments to acts proposed

The following acts are to be amended
3.1. Banking Regulation Act

The Banking Regulation Act is to be amended to increase professionalism, improve
governance, enable access to capital and enable sound banking through RBI
3.2. SARFAESI act

The SARFAESI (Securitization and Reconstruction of Financial Assets and Enforcement of
Security Interest) act, 2002 is to be amended. This is to reduce the limit of debt recovery
of NBFCs from 500 crores to 100 crores. The debt recovery for loans of the NBFCs is to
be reduced from 1 crore to 50 lakhs
3.3. PFRDAI act

The Pension Fund Regulatory Development Authority India Act is to be amended.
According to the amendment the role of PFRDAI is to be strengthened. This is being done
to infuse auto enrolment in Universal Pension Coverage scheme. The act will also enable
establishment of Private trusts by employees.
3.4. Factor Regulation Act, 2011

The act will be amended to extend invoice financing to the MSMEs. This will help in
enhancing their financial and economic sustainability.
4. MSME Sector
4.1. Scheme
A scheme is to be introduced to increase the working capital credit of the MSMEs. Under
the scheme, subordinate debt is to be provided for entrepreneurs of MSMEs.
4.2. RBI’s Restructuring of Debts

In 2019-20, more than 5 lakh MSMEs have been benefitted with the RBI restructuring its
permissible debts. The GoI has requested RBI to extend the window till March 31, 2021.
4.3. Application to be launched

An application is to be launched to raise invoices of loan products introduced for MSME
sector. This will reduce the problem of cash flow mismatches and delayed payment
problems.
4.4. Scheme by EXIM and SIDBI

Together both the EXIM and SIDBI will launch a scheme of 1000 crores. The institutions
will contribute 50 cores each.
5. Bond Market
 The limit of FPI in corporate bonds that are currently at 9% is to be increased to 15%
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 A legislation is to be framed that will create a mechanism for netting of financial contracts.
This will help to increase investor confidence
 Upon the success of the Exchange Traded Fund introduced recently, Gol has allocated budget
to expand ETF focusing primarily on government securities
 A partial Credit Guarantee scheme is to be formulated to address the liquidity constraints of
NBFCs.
6. International Bullion Exchange Centre in GIFT city

Budget 2020-21 allocated funds to establish the GFT city. The GIFT has International
Financial Service Centre (IFSC). IT has been approved to set up Free Trade Zone for
housing vaults. There are more than 40 banking entities and 19 insurance entities
operating in the city. The city is to be established as an International Bullion Exchange
centre.
February 3, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
14. India-Maldives sign MoU to establish Addu Tourism
On February 2, 2020, India and Maldives signed 5 Memorandum of Understandings to

establish Addu Tourism in 5 islands of Addu atoll. The tourism is to be developed at a
cost of 2.49 million USD. Addu is a city in Maldives that contains several inhabited
Islands.
1. Highlights
The Agreements were signed by the High Commissioner of India Sunjay Sudhir, Addu
Council and the Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdulla Shahid. Along with tourism, the
countries also signed the 6th MoU agreement to set up a bottled water plant in
Hoarafushi.
2. India-Maldives
Maldives is located in the south of Lakshadweep islands. Also, Maldives is a neighbor. For
its strategic location, it is important for India to develop cordial relations with the
country. This will help India contain the increasing Chinese presence in the region. Milan
is the multilateral naval exercise conducted between the countries. It is held in Andaman
and Nicobar Islands
15. Matla Abhiyan: Coastal Security Exercise conducted by Indian Navy
The Indian Navy recently launched a unique coastal security exercise in Kolkata. The
exercise was conducted to create awareness about the coastal security to the local
community.
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1. Highlights
The Indian Navy conducted the Coastal Security Exercise, Malta Abhiyan in the
Sunderbans region and the exercise is unique of its kind. Two naval boats were flagged
off the Sunderbans till Hemnagar along the International Trade Protocol route between
India and Bangladesh. The Naval officer created awareness to the local community along
the route. The route is sensitive as deadly equipment can be dropped off easily and thus
it was chosen by the Indian Navy.
2. Sunderbans
The Sunderbans is a Mangrove Delta Forest formed at the confluence of Brahmaputra,
Ganga and Meghna rivers. The Delta is vulnerable for its vastness and complexities. It
covers over 10,000 square kilometres in India and 6,017 square kilometres in
Bangladesh.
3. Sunderbans-Heritage Sites
Four Sunderbans protected areas are listed under UNESCO World Heritage Sites. It
includes Sunderbans National Park, Sundarbans South, Sunderbans West and
Sunderbans East.
16. Mohammed Allawi appointed the PM of Iraq amidst Tishreen

Revolution in the country
On February 01, 2020, one of the former communications ministers of Iraq, Mohammed
Allawi was appointed the Prime Minister of the country by the President of Iraq, Barham
Salih.
1. Highlights
Allawi has been appointed the Prime Minister of the Country amidst long protests that
has so far killed 600 in the country.
2. 2019 Iraqi protests-The Tishreen Revolution

The 2019 Iraqi protests has been named Tishreen Revolution or October Revolution or
Iraqi Intifada. It was started in October 2019 in the social media by civil activists. IT then
spread to northern and southern provinces of the country. The protests was against the
16 years of corruption in the country. It also aimed to stop the Iranian intervention in
Iraq.
3. Mohammed Allawi
Allawi served as the communication minister between 2006-07 and 2010-12. During
both his terms he resigned due to political reasons. He was famous for his strict actions
against bribery. He brought out the controversial rule of imposing 30% of contract
signed as fine, if the company’s bribing charges were proved. Also, the company would
be blacklisted.
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17. National Emergency Declared in Pakistan to fight against Locusts in
the border
Pakistan which is facing the worst locust attacks in decades has declared National
Emergency. The emergency was declared to tackle the insects that are destroying crops
in Punjab province, the main region of agricultural production.
1. Highlights
The locusts are currently in the India-Pakistan border along Cholistan. Usually, these
Locusts move to Iran after some time. However, this time due to low temperatures they
are still in Pakistan.
2. Locusts in India
By the end of January 2020, the Indian border of Gujarat and Rajasthan were attacked by
desert locusts from Pakistan and Iran. They mainly attacked the oil seed producing
regions. It included rapeseed and cumin seed plants in Gujarat in around 17,000
hectares and 360,000 hectares of land in Rajasthan.
18. Corona virus: G7 Health Ministerial meet, China’s New Hospital,

Travel ban by 4 countries
The Corona Virus death toll has increased to 360. The WHO has also declared
International Health Emergency over the outbreak of the virus. The G7 countries are to
conduct a Ministerial level health meet to discuss measures to prevent the further
spread of the disease.
1. G7 meet
The health ministers of G7 grouping that comprises of USA, Canada, UK, France,
Germany, Italy and Japan are to meet to discuss the epidemic being caused by the
Corona virus. The Minsters will discuss a joint response to the epidemic.
2. Travel Ban
The four countries Australia, US, New Zealand and Israel has imposed travel ban to the
people who have recently visited China. This will certainly affected trade and business of
China. The Chinese share markets are already slowing down.
3. Borders closed
The four countries Nepal, Russia and Mongolia have closed their borders with China.
4. China’s new hospital

China’s speed-built hospital in the city of Wuhan comprises of 1000 beds. The hospital
was built in just 8 days. There are more than 21,558 suspected cases and 152,700 under
watch cases in the country.
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19. Import duty on Green Energy Equipment hiked by 20% in Budget
2020-21
The Budget 2020-21 that was presented by the finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman in
the Parliament increased the import duty of green energy equipment like cells by 20%.
This is being implemented to drive local manufacturing of the equipment and lowering
the import of low-quality Chinese equipment.
1. Highlights
The Energy markets is currently one of the fast-growing markets in India. However, the
market is dominated by the Chinese companies for their competitive prices. The GoI had
earlier imposed safeguard duty over solar cells and models that are imported from
Malaysia and China in July 2018. This is to expire by July 2020. Hence, the budget has
introduced new duties.
2. India’s Scenario
India is the third largest consumer of energy after US and China. The manufacturing
capacity of India is 3 GW for the solar cells. In spite of this, in 2018-19, India imported
2.16 billion USD worth solar photo voltaic cells.
20. National Calamity Contingent Duty increased in Budget-Concerns of

Tobacco institute
The Budget 2020-21 that was presented by the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman
increased the National Calamity Contingent Duty. The imposed duty is expected to
witness price rise of 7% in the sales of cigarettes.
1. What is NCCD?
The NCCD is tax imposed on pan masala, cigarettes, cellular phones and other tobacco
products. It was introduced under Finance Act, 2001
2. Concerns
The Tobacco Institute of India believes that increasing the NCCD will incentivize illegal
cigarette trading in the country. Currently, the illegal cigarettes account to one-fourth of
the Indian Cigarette market.
3. National Calamity contingent Fund (NCCF)

The Fund was proposed by the 11th Finance Commission. It has a core corpus of Rs 500
crores. The fund is replenished through National Calamity Contingent Duty. Since April
2010, the NCCF has been merged with the National Disaster Response Fund.
21. Portal Santusht launched: To implement policies of Labour Ministry

at grass root level
The Portal Santusht is an Implementation Monitoring Cell that was launched by the
Ministry of Lobour and Employment in January 2020. The portal addresses delivery of
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public services, their transparency, accountability, schemes and policies at grass root
level.
1. Highlights
The portal aims to address the speedy redressal of grievances of workers ans employers.
It monitors services that are provided by the health insurance and EPFOs (Employment
Provident Fund Organization). Also, it monitors the services provided by the ESICs
(Employment State Insurance Corporation) to the formal sector workers.
2. ESIC
The ESIC is a statutory body administered by the Ministry of Labour and Employment.
The Corporation can raise loans, acquire movable and immovable properties. It can also
set up hospitals in collaboration with the state governments for the benefit of the
employees. The ESIC is governed by the ESI (Employment State Insurance) Act.
3. EPFO
The EPFO is also a statutory body formed and operated under Employment Provident
Fund and Miscellaneous Provisions act, 1952. It is also operated under Ministry of Labour
and Employment.
22. SFURTI Scheme update given in the Parliament-Rs 2.3 crores budget
allocated
The Ministry of MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises) on February 3, 2020,
provided an update on the SFURTI scheme being implemented.
1. Highlights
A total amount of Rs 2.3 crores has been sanctioned for the scheme in the budget
2020.The Ministry updated the house that currently the scheme is working towards the
following
2. About the Scheme

The scheme SFURTI-Scheme of Fund for Regeneration of Traditional industries was
launched in 2005. It enhances production of Khadi industries and artisans. Also, under
SFURTI, the scheme for rural industries Service Centre (RISC) is being implemented. The
scheme for Product Development, Design Intervention and Packaging is also
implemented under SFURTI.
23. APEDA signs MoU to set up a Liason Office in Guwahati, Assam
On February 3, 2020, APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export

Development Authority) signed MoU with CSIR-CFTRI (Council of Scientific and Industrial
Research-Central Food Technological Research Institute). According to the agreement,
the CSIR-CFTRI will provide technical support to the food industries in the North East
Region.
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1. Highlights
APEDA will set up a Liason Office. A Liason office connects people and coordinate
activities between officers. The newly set up office will work towards promoting organic
agricultural exports and food processing. The centre will also works in augmenting the
export of traditional food products in the region.
2. Recent Measures of APEDA in the North East

The APDEA has launched several measures to develop the North East Region. It
organized 5 international buyer seller meets in 2019. The meets were conducted in
Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Tripura and Sikkim. It aimed at showcasing the
potential of horticulture, organic foods and agriculture of the region.
February 4, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
24. Minister of North East Development chairs Ujh (National)

Multipurpose Project, Jammu Kashmir
On February 3, 2020 the Minister of North Eastern Development Dr Jitendra Singh

chaired the Ujh Multipurpose (National) Project, Jammu and Kashmir. The meeting was
attended by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Ministry of Power and other officers from state
government of Punjab
1. Highlights
The Meeting was held to fast track complete utilization of India’s rights under Indus
Water Treaty. The project is to be constructed across River Ujh, a tributary of River Ravi.
2. Indus Water Treaty

The Indus-Water Treaty was signed between India and Pakistan in 1960. The signing of
the treaty was brokered by the World Bank. According to the agreement, the waters of
eastern rivers Ravi, Beas and Sutlej were given to India and the control over waters
flowing in the western rivers Indus, Chenab and Jhelum were given to Pakistan.
25. February 4: World Cancer Day
The World Cancer Day is being marked annually on February 4 by the Union for
International Cancer Control. The day is being marked from 2008. The day is observed
by the United Nations as well. The theme of this year’s World Cancer Day is
1. Highlights
According to WHO, every year 8.8 million people die of cancer in low- and middle-income
countries. The World Cancer Day is marked to reduce illness and death caused by
cancer.
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2. Union for International Cancer Control
It is a Non-Governmental Organization that was formed in 1933. The headquarters of the
organization is located in Geneva, Switzerland. The organization works towards reducing
global cancer burden and to integrate cancer control measures into world health
agenda.
26. Facts Box: World Wetlands Day
The World Wetlands Day is marked on February 2 by the Ramsar Secretariat with
financial support from Danone Group.
1. Highlights
The World Wetland Day is being marked since 1997. February 2 was chosen as the
Ramsar Convention was signed on this day in 1971.
2. Significance of the theme

The world wetlands are disappearing three times faster than that of the forests.
Therefore, this year theme focuses on promoting actions to reverse the losses.
3. Importance of Wetlands
The day is important to create awareness about the importance of wetlands. The
wetlands provide habitat to several species, acts as a buffer zone against flooding and
storms. Above all, wetlands act as natural filter of water. They break down harmful
pollutants and transform them into pure elements.
4. RAMSAR Convention
The Convention is named after the Ramsar city of Iran where it was signed. The
convention works closely with 6 partners namely Birdlife International, WWF
International, International Water Management Institute, International Union for
Conservation of Nature and Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust.
27. Australian Open: Novak Djokovic won the title for the eighth time
The Serbian Player Novak Djokovic captured the Australian Open Title of 2020 in Men’s
single. Sofia Kenin won Women’s singles at the tournament. Rajeev Ram teamed up with
Joe Salisbury won the Men’s doubles.
1. Australia Open
The Australia Open 2020 was held at Melbourne. It is the first of the four Grand Slam
tennis tournaments held every year. The other 3 Grand Slams include Wimbledon,
French Open and US open. So far Australian Open has been conducted in 5 cities namely
Melbourne, Adelaide, Sydney, Perth and Sydney. In 1906, it was conducted at the New
Zealand city Christchurch and in 1912 at Hastings.
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2. Grand Slam
The Grand Slam title offers most ranking points. The Australian Open is held in January,
French Open in May-June, Wimbledon in June-July and US Open in August-September.
The Grand Slam tournaments are operated by the International Tennis Federation.
3. International Tennis Federation

It was founded in 1913. It maintains rules of tennis and regulates international
tournaments. It also preserved sports integrity conducting anti-doping and anti-
corruption programmes.
28. PMMVY awards: Madhya Pradesh wins; Manipur won among NE

states
On February 3, 2020, the Ministry of Women and Child Development awarded Pradhan
Mantri Matru Vandhana Yojana (PMMVY) awards to states and Union Territories and
Districts. The award function was organized to promote competitive federalism among
the states.
1. Highlights: Best Performance since inception

Under this, in the category of more than 1 crore population, Madhya Pradesh bagged the
award followed by Andhra Pradesh and Haryana at second and third position
respectively.
2. Highlights: Best Performance in Matru Vandana Saptah

In the category of states and UTs with population more than 1 crore, Andhra Pradesh,
Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh stood at first, second and third places respectively.
3. PMMVY
The PMMVY has so far benefitted 1.28 crore beneficiaries. It has transferred Rs 5280
crores through Direct Benefit Transfer scheme.
29. Supreme Court directs states to set up Gram Nyayalayas
On February 3, 2020, the Supreme Court of India directed the states to establish “Gram
Nyayalayas” within four weeks’ time span. The apex court has directed the
corresponding state high courts to expedite the process of consultation with the state
governments.
1. Highlights
The Gram Nyayalayas act, 2008 was passed to provide establishment of Gram
Nyayalayas at the grass root level. The main objective of the judicial body is to provide
inexpensive justice in rural areas.
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2. Current Scenario of the States
According to the report presented by the Advocate, Goa has issued two notification to
establish the Gram Nyayalayas. However, none are functioning at the moment. Haryana
had issued notification for 3 and Currently only two are functioning.
30. India develops new Vaccine to control Swine Fever
The ICAR (Indian Council of Agricultural Research)’s Indian Veterinary Research Institute
(IVRI) has developed cell culture Classical Swine Fever vaccine.
1. Significance
The vaccine will help to save several rabbits. This is because the current vaccine called
the Lapinised CSF (Classical Swine Fever) being used is produced by sacrificing large
number of rabbits.
2. Need
The deadly fever in pigs contribute to 10% of the country’s total meat production. The
CSF is one of the deadliest diseases of pigs that is causing loss of Rs 400 crores to India
annually. It is also one of the reasons for the swine population to decline in 2019 as
compared to the previous census 2012.
3. Current Scenario
The total requirement of the vaccine in India is 22 million doses per year. However,
hardly 1.2 million doses are being produced currently. This is because, only 50 doses can
be produced from a rabbit spleen.
31. New Natural Gas Reserves discovered in UAE
On February 2, 2020, the United Arab Emirates discovered shallow natural gas reserves
of about 80 trillion cubic feet. The reserve was discovered between the Emirates of Abu
Dhabi and Dubai.
1. Highlights
In November 2019, UAE announced the discovery of 7 billion barrels of oil. This raised
the crude reserves of the country to 105 billion barrels making it the sixth largest in the
world. IT had also announced the discovery of 58 trillion cubic feet of gas. This puts the
total reserves of natural gas of UAE to 273 trillion cubic feet conventional gas and 160
trillion cubic feet unconventional gas.
2. UAE
The UAE is formed by seven Emirates namely Dubai, Abu Dhadi, Ajman, Sharjah, Ras Al-
Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al-Quwain. Around 30% of the GDP of the country is directly
based on oil and gas.
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3. India-UAE
The India-UAE bilateral trade currently stands at 59.9 billion USD. India is the third
largest investor in UAE. There are more than 2 million Indian population living and
working in UAE. The total remittances from UAE to India in the year 2009 was 10 to 12
billion USD. This is one-third of the total remittances received by India and also highest
among all the GCC countries.
32. WHO report: Cancer Cases to increase by 81% in 2040
While the world marked World Cancer Day on February 4, 2020, the World Health
Organization released its report on Cancer.
1. Highlights
According to the report, the cancer cases will increase by 81% by 2040. This is mainly
due to lack of investment. The report says that it is essential to invest 25 billion USD in
the next decade to save millions of lives.
2. Tobacco in India
According to WHO, there are 120 million smokers in India. This is 12% of world smoker.
The number of tobacco smokers in India grew by 36% between 1998 and 2015.
3. National Tobacco Control Programme

The Programme is currently being implemented in 612 districts. It aims at bringing
awareness about tobacco control laws and harmful effects of tobacco usage.
February 5, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
33. Western Railways begins branding of its locomotives to improves its

non-freight revenue
On February 3, 2020, the Western Railways launched out branding of electric

locomotives for the first time. This will help the Railways earn additional revenue of 1.05
crores of rupees.
1. Highlights
Around 10 locomotives have been branded so far. Railways has earned 223.53 crores of
rupees from non-fare revenues. The step being initiated as the passenger fares dipped
by 400 crores of rupees. The Western Railways is also facing deficit in freight loading.
Therefore, branding is essential and will help to fill in the deficit faced by the Western
Railways.
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2. Indian Railways
The total revenue of Indian Railways is 1.97 lakh crores (2018-19). Apart from
transporting freight and passengers, the Railways also earn from UNESCO World
Heritage Sites.
3. Indian Railways’s UNESCO World Heritage Site

Indian Railways has two UNESCO World Heritage Site. It includes Mountain Railways of
India and Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. The Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj
Terminus was built by the Britishers between 1878 and 1887.
34. Udyanotsav inaugurated by the President at Rashtrapati Bhavan
On February 4, 2020, President Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated Udyanotsav at Rashtrapati

Bhavan. The Mughal Gardens will be opened to the public between February 5, 2020 and
March 8, 2020.
1. Highlights
The main highlights of the Udyanotsav of 2020 are Exotic flowers, tulips and bulbous
flowers. Online booking to visit the gardens has been availed for the citizens in the
website of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
2. Mughal Gardens
The Mughal Gardens have been built in the Persian Style. It was influenced by the
Charbagh structure. Charbagh is a quadrilateral layout of gardens that is mentioned in
Quran. The most famous examples of this type of garden are the Chahrbagh-e-Abbasi in
Iran and the Taj Mahal in India.
3. Rashtrapti Bhavan
Rashtrapti Bhavan is the largest residence of any head of the state in the world. The
Construction was ordered by the Governor-General of Fort William. It was constructed
between 1799 and 1803.
35. WHO on Corona Virus: Virus is not yet pandemic
The World Health Organization on February 4, 2020 announced that the Corona virus
disease has not yet become pandemic. The disease has so far killed 425 people and has
infected more than 20,000. Hong Kong recently reported death due to the virus. It is the
first country outside China to report death.
1. Highlights
Though the disease spreads through sneezes, coughs and direct contact, the disease has
not yet become pandemic.
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2. What is Pandemic?
An Epidemic disease spread over a large region is pandemic. Currently, the WHO list of
pandemics include HIV, 2009 flu, Spanish flu and H1N1. Previously small pox and
Tuberculosis were also included under Pandemics. The most devastating pandemics in
the world was Black Death that killed more than 100 million people in the world.
3. Possible Future Pandemics

According to WHO, the antibiotic resistant micro-organisms called the superbugs may re-
emerge as possible pandemics.
36. East Asia Summit on Maritime Cooperation to be held in Chennai
The Ministry of External Affairs is to organize East Asia Summit in Chennai between
February 6, 2020 and February 7, 2020. This is the fifth time the conference is being
held in India. The first conference was organized in Delhi in 2015, second in Goa in 2016,
third in Bhubaneswar in 2018. In 2019, the fourth conference was held in Bangkok.
1. Highlights
The conference is to be held in cooperation with the governments of Australia and
Indonesia. More than 100 participants are expected to participate. The Conference will
bring upon understanding of all the partners. It will foster the spirit of openness and
inclusion.
2. About the Summit

The Summit is held annually by 16 nations in the East Asia, South Asia and South East
Asia. The first such summit was held in Kuala Lumpur in 2005. US and Russia are also a
part of the summit.
37. India-South Korea hold meeting to enhance Bilateral Security

Cooperation
On January 4, 2020, the defence ministers of India and South Korea discussed ways to
enhance bilateral security cooperation in the field of defence industries and research
and development.
1. Highlights
During the defence ministers meet held between India and South Korea, several possible
areas of cooperation in the field of defence industry were listed. The countries also
discussed about investment in Defence Industrial Corridors in Tamil Nadu and Uttar
Pradesh.
2. Defence Industrial Corridors

The Government of India has set up Defence Industrial Corridor in Uttar Pradesh and
Tamil Nadu. The Corridors facilitate efficient industrial base and aims at increasing
defence production in the country. They aim at ensuring connectivity between different
defence industrial units.
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3. Significance
It is essential for India to maintain cordial relations with South Korea for its strategic
location in China Sea. Also, India is currently developing strong military hardware
cooperation with South Korea. Indian Army has inducted K-9 Vajra howitzers that has
roots in South Korea. K9 is currently deployed in the border of Pakistan.
38. National Productivity Council study: Fertilizer use reduced by 10%

with the use of soil cards
The study conducted by the National Productivity Council has reported that the use of
soil cards has reduced the fertilizer use by 10% in the country. The study also reported
that the productivity has increased by 5-6% due to soil card. This is mainly because the
soil card scheme aims at addressing the issue of declining soil nutrient.
1. Soil Health Card

The Soil Health Card Scheme was launched by the Modi Government in 2014-15 in order
to address the issue of declining soil nutrients. In 2015-17, the scheme distributed 10.74
crores of soil health cards. Between 2017 and 2019, 11.69 crores of cards have been
distributed.
2. Development of Model Villages

In the Fiscal year 2019, the scheme of Development of Model Villages is being
implemented. The scheme aims at sampling and testing of cultivable soil. The scheme
has so far distributed 13.53 lakh soil health cards in the year 2019-20. It has established
soil health laboratories
39. DefExpo 2020: India’s target in Defence Sector is 5 billion USD in

next 5 years
The 11th edition of DefExpo (Defence Exhibition) was inaugurated by PM Modi on

February 5, 2020. At the inaugural speech, PM Modi announced that India will work
towards increasing its Defence economy to 5 billion USD.
1. Highlights
India announced at the DefExpo that it has aimed to develop 25 products based on
Artificial Intelligence in next 5 years. India recently shifted towards “Assemble in India”
from “Make in India”. Therefore, the new mantra was coined at the DefExpo called
“Make in India, for India and for the world”. This is because, “Assemble in India” aims at
importing raw materials and assembling in India and exporting the finished goods to
different parts of the world.
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2. Targets set
India had already set an export target of Rs 35,000 crores in next 5 years. At the
DefExpo, India has announced to improve the sector to 5 billion USD sector. India is very
much capable of achieving such ambitious targets. This is because in the last two years
the defence exports of the country has been increased to Rs 17,000 crores.
40. DefExpo 2020: Uttar Pradesh is to sign 23 MoUs and create 3 lakh
job opportunities
The DefExpo was inaugurated by PM Modi on February 5, 2020. During the Defence
Exhibition the Uttar Pradesh Government is to sign 23 MoUs. The agreements will bring
in Rs 50,000 crores of investment. This will bring in job opportunities to 3 lakh people.
1. Highlights
The DefExpo 2020 being held in Lucknow (Uttar Pradesh) is the biggest ever Defence
Exhibition. The Exhibition aims at making India a technological power house through
initiatives such as Start up India, Skill India and Make in India.
2. Governmental Measures
In order to boost the defence sector, the Indian Government has taken several
measures. It has liberalized the FDI (Foreign Direct Investment) to 49% through direct
route. Also, GoI liberalized the FDI through government route to 100%.
3. About DefExpo
The DefExpo is biennial event organized by Ministry of Defence. The 11th edition of the
event promises to bring in new technological solutions. Defence Ministers from 40
countries are attending the event.
41. Cabinet approves amendment to bring Cooperative Banks under RBI

Regulation
On February 5, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to bring regulation of cooperative

banks under Reserve Bank of India. In order to achieve this, the Cabinet approved
amendments to Banking regulation act.
1. Highlights
According to the amendment, the cooperative banks will now hold the regulatory
requirements that have been set for scheduled commercial banks. With the amendment,
the cooperative banks have to conduct regulatory commands over cooperative banks.
Also, it has to take the approval of RBI in order to appoint its CEO.
2. Background
In September 2019, the RBI imposed sanctions on Punjab and Maharashtra Cooperative
Banks (PMC). The withdrawal limit in the banks were set to Rs 1000. Later, it was
increased to Rs 50,000 to ease the distress of the customers.
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42. India Russia sign first ever Term Contract to import crude oil to India
On February 5, 2020, the Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Shri Dharmendra
Pradhan and the Chairman of Rosneft (Russia’s largest oil producing company) signed
the first ever term contract. According to the contract India will import 2 million metric
tonnes of Urals grade crude oil.
1. Highlights
The agreement was signed between IOCL and Rosneft. The companies discussed on
energy cooperation and hydrocarbon enhancement.
2. India and Russia Oil Ties

After the crude oil agreement, India and Russia are also looking for ways to sign
agreements to bring LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) supplies from Russia. Russia is
estimated to posses 10 to 14 billion tonnes of oil and 15 trillion cubic metres of gas. The
rich resources of Russia extends till Serbia in Pacific Ocean in the far East region.
February 6, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
43. The Direct Tax Vivad Se Vishwas bill introduced in Lok Sabha by the
Finance Minister
The Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman proposed the scheme Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme
in the Union Budget 2020. In order to implement the scheme, the minister introduced a
bill in Lok Sabha on February 5, 2020. The main objective of the scheme is to
1. Highlights
The scheme aims to settle the pending cases on direct taxes. The scheme is very similar
to the “Indirect Tax, Sabka Vishwas Scheme” introduced by the minister in her previous
budget in 2019. The Sabka Vishwas scheme aimed to settle down the disputes related to
service tax and excise duty payments
2. Key Features
The Vivad Se Vishwas Scheme aims to resolve 483,000 direct tax disputes. The scheme
provides waivers on interest if the disputed tax was paid before 31st March, 2020. The
scheme also increases the dead line to June 30, 2020 for those tax payers who have not
paid their taxes by March 31, 2020. However, such taxpayers will have to pay 10% more
tax.
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44. Pink City-Jaipur receives World Heritage Certificate from UNESCO
On February 5, 2020, the Pink City of Rajasthan, Jaipur, received World Heritage
Certificate from the UNESCO. The UNESCO Director General Audrey Azoulay visited India
to present the certificate.
1. Highlights
The World Heritage Certificate was presented to Jaipur for the efforts of the people of the
pink city towards preserving its cultural heritage. Jaipur’s Parkota has been listed in the
World Heritage sites of UNESCO.
2. Intelligence Heritage Promotion Project

The Project is being implemented by UNESCO in 10 cities of Rajasthan, It includes
Barmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, etc.
3. Why Jaipur?
Jaipur is known for its palaces, architecture, forts. The architecture in the city reflected
inclusion of Mughal, Persian and Hindu designs. In order to preserve this cultural mixture
of the city, UNESCO and the Rajasthan Tourism Department have signed an agreement.
4. Selection Criteria
The World Heritage Sites are selected on the basis of four natural criteria and six cultural
criteria. They are as follows
45. Atal Innovation Mission joins with several ministries to stimulate

innovation in India
On February 5, 2020, the Atal Innovation Mission (AIM) joined hands with several
ministries such as MSME, agriculture, food processing and also with NITI Aayog to
stimulate innovation in India. The mission aimed to showcase government funded
innovations.
1. Highlights
In order to achieve its objective, AIM began its first demo session with the Ministry of
Food Processing and Ministry of Agriculture. The event was held at Atal Incubation
Centre. More than 30 government supported technologies of agriculture and food
processing were exhibited on the occasion. The ministries will adopt the technologies
and train farmers and the youths to set up processing units.
2. Significance
The step is being initiated as India is facing post-harvest crop processing. The mission
aims to increase the food processing capacity of India. Currently, 10% of the food items
are sold as processed foods. The mission aims to increase this to 50%. This will mainly
help to increase farmers’ income and help India achieve its doubling farmers’ income
goal by 2022.
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46. Cabinet approves to set up Vardhavan port in Maharashtra
On February 5, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to set up the Vardhavan port in
Maharashtra. The port is to be developed in “Landlord Model”. The Jawaharlal Nehru Port
Trust will act as the lead partner in developing the port.
1. Highlights
With the development of Vardhavan port, India will enter into the category of countries
with top 10 container ports in the world. The Jawaharlal Nehru Port (JNP) is the biggest
container port in India and 28th in the world. The port handles more than 5.1 million
TEUS (Twenty-foot Equivalent units).
2. Significance of Vardhavan port

Currently JNP operates India’s largest port and caters Maharashtra, Gujarat, Karnataka,
Rajasthan and Uttar Pradesh. However, it is essential to deepen the port to
accommodate largest container ships in the world.
47. Karnataka launches Janasevaka Scheme
On February 5, 2020, the State Government of Karnataka launched Janasevaka scheme.

The Government aims to provide doorstep government services under the scheme. Also,
it intends to digitize several services and make these services easily available to the
citizens through the scheme.
1. Highlights
Under the scheme, the government has launched an exclusive mobile number (080-
44554455), a website (janasevaka.karnataka.gov.in) and mobile application. People can
check around 53 services in the site.
2. Features of the scheme

The scheme offers to provide health card, ration card, marriage registration certificate,
identity card, etc. at the door steps under the scheme. A Jan Sevak is appointed to
deliver the services under the scheme
3. Jan Sevak
As the citizen places his request of service through the government website, a Jan Sevak
is assigned to deliver the service. The Jan Sevak will reach the residence of the citizen,
collect required documents and deliver the service at his door step.
4. Cost
The Cost of the service is Rs 115. This amount does not include the cost of
documentation. The scheme is to be implemented in Bengaluru. Depending on the work
load, it is to be extended to the rest of Karnataka.
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48. Intellectual Property Index: India ranks 40th
On February 5, 2020, the Global Innovation Policy Centre (GIPC) of the US Chamber of
Commerce released the International IP (Intellectual Property) Index. According the
ranking, India was at position 40 of the 53 economies.
1. Highlights: India
The report released by GIPC says that India remains to be the most challenging but still
promising market for IP-intensive industries. The hurdles mainly remain in patent
eligibility and enforcement.
2. Highlights: World
With a score of 42.66 US ranked first followed by UK, Sweden, France, Germany and
Ireland.
3. Indian Patents Act, 2005

The amendments introduced in Indian Patents Act, 2005 are considered the main reason
for the pace of development in the field of Intellectual property being slowed down. The
major amendment of the act includes Section 3 (d). Under the amendment, the act
made licensing compulsory for a third party to make an innovative drug at reduced
price, especially in the interest of public health.
49. Cabinet approves to give status of Institution of National Importance

to 5 IIITs
On February 5, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to confer the status of Institution of
National Importance to 5 IIITs (Indian Institute of Information Tecnology). All the 5 IIITs
are to operate in PPP mode.
1. Highlights
The Cabinet approved the Information Technology Laws (Amendment) bill, 2020.
According to the bill, five IIITs along with 15 other IIITs are to be declared as Institutions
of National Importance and will hold powers to awards degrees of Bachelor of
Technology, Master of Technology, BTech and PhD degree.
2. Features of the bill

The bill will grant statutory status to 5 IIITs that are operating in PPP mode at Bhopal,
Surat, Bhagalpur, Agartala and Raichur. There are already 15 IIITs that are currently
operating under PPP model. There are 5 IIITs in India that were set up by the Ministry of
Human Resource Development. This means that complete funding for the institute
comes from GoI. No private parties are involved. It includes IIITs in Gwalior, Jabalpur,
Kancheepuram, Allahabad and Kurnool.
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50. Rakhi Halder wins gold medal at the Women’s National Weightlifting
Championship
On February 6, 2020, Rakhi Halder of West Bengal won Senior Weightlifting

Championship. She bagged gold medal in the 64 kg category at the 35th National
Weight lifting Championship held in Kolkata.
1. Highlights
Halder lifted 117 kg in clean and jerk and 93 kg in snatch to win the medal. She was 10
kgs ahead of her rival Harjinder Kaur from Chandigarh.
2. Rakhi Halder
Rakhi Halder ranked 19th in the Olympic qualifier list. Her best was 218 kg at the Qatar
International Cup that won her a bronze medal. In 2019, she clinched gold medal at the
Commonwealth Championship lifting 214 kg. Halder is a Railway employee.
3. Weightlifting
The sport of weightlifting is related to the strength and technique of a player. A good
weightlifter will lift three times their weight.
51. US President Donald Trump acquitted at the Senate
On February 5, 2020, US President Donald Trump who had been impeached by the
House of Representatives has been acquitted at the Senate trial. He now becomes the
third President in the US history to be impeached by House of Representatives and
acquitted by the Senate. The other two Presidents were Bill Clinton in 1999 and Andrew
Johnson in 1868.
1. Highlights
Mr Trump was accused of charges that he had sought help from Ukraine to bolster his
2020 re-election. The Supreme Court Judge who presided over the trial adjudged the
case as two-thirds of the senators pronounced him not guilty.
2. US President Impeachment
The Constitution of United States authorizes the House of Representatives to remove a
US President over a simple majority vote. At the house of Senate, the President is
impeached through a trial presided over by the Chief Justice of Supreme Court that
requires two-thirds majority.
3. India
The Impeachment Procedure of President of India is provided in the Article 61 of the
Indian Constitution. In India the President shall be impeached for violating Constitution of
India.
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52. RBI releases bi-monthly policy: Repo rate unchanged
On February 6, 2020, the Reserve Bank of India released its bi-monthly monetary policy.
The apex bank has kept the policy repo rate unchanged. It remains at 5.15%.
1. Observations of the Committee

The Monetary Policy Committee that meets once in two months under the chairmanship
of its Governor has made the following observations
2. Economic Slowdown
According to RBI, the economic slow down is mainly due to muted corporate
investments, weak household spending and slowdown in construction and
manufacturing activity.
February 8, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
53. DRDO signs agreement with Russia’s Rosoboronexport at the

DefExpo, 2020
On February 7, 2020, DRDO (Defence Research Development Organization) signed an

agreement with Rosobornexport of Russia. According to the agreement the defence
organization will develop Advanced Pyrotechnic Ignition Systems for missile propulsion
1. Highlights
The agreement was signed with the HEMRL (High Energy Materials Research Laboratory)
of DRDO. HEMRL is working towards the development of spectrum of high energy
materials that are required for rockets, missiles and guns.
2. Rosoboronexports
The Rosoboronexports is the intermediary agency for imports and exports of defence
goods and technologies of Russia. It was founded in 2000. It implements the Defence
Policies of the Russian Government.
54. MPEDA to upgrade 25 fishing harbours in India
The Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) will modernize 25 fishing
harbours in India. The project is to begin in two harbours namely Nizampatnam in
Andhra Pradesh and Thoppumpady in Kochi, Kerala.
1. Highlights
The step is being taken by MPEDA to increase value of marine products. The value of
marine products in India is currently around 5% as compared to 50% in South East Asian
countries.
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2. Corona Virus Concern
The current Corona Virus has not affected the sea food industry to great level. This is
because, it is restricted to Wuhan province of china. However, it has affected the
discussions on White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV). High level Indian delegates were to
travel to China to discuss WSSV. The discussion has been postponed.
3. India-China Sea Food

The Indian Exports of sea food to China was around 1 billion USD (November 2019).
However, it declined due to the WSSSV issues.
4. MPEDA
The MPEDA has set a target to touch 10 billion USD of exports by 2022.
55. India International Seafood Show held in Kochi
The Marine Products Export Development Authority Organized International Sea Food
Show in Kochi. Around 5,000 delegates participated in the show. The show will provide a
platform for overseas importers of Indian marine products and also for Indian exporters.
1. Highlights
Around 350 stalls, 200 exhibitors and 5,000 delegates are to participate at the event.
The show was previously held in Goa in January 2018. The show was organized under the
theme
2. Significance
The show aims to increase the seafood trade of India in global market from 4.1% to 6.7%
by 2030.
3. Fisheries Sector
The Global Fisheries sector contribute to 1% of world GDP. The total world population
involved in fisheries industry is 40.5 million.
56. 14 MoUs signed at 5th India-Russia Industrial Conference
India and Russia signed 14 Memorandum of Understandings at the India-Russia

Industrial Conference held at DefExpo 2020, Lucknow. The Agreements were signed
under Make in India initiative.
1. Highlights
The countries signed agreements related to ASW rocket launchers, T-72, radar systems,
3D modeling, T-90.
2. India-Russia at multilateral organizations

 The National Security Advisor attended the BRICS Foreign Ministers meet in June 2019. He
met President Putin, the Russian President on the sidelines of the meet to strengthen defence
ties between the countries
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 At the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organization), India participated at the fifth edition of the
biennial joint military counter terrorist command for the first time in August 2018.
 Russia has been one of the long-standing supporters of India’s membership at the Nuclear
Suppliers Group.
 Russia welcomes One Belt One Road initiative of China.
 Russia also welcomes the International North-South Transport Corridor that was held in March
2019. It is a 7,2000 km long international multi-node rail, road and ship route between
Europe and Central Asia. It includes India, Russia, Afghanistan, Azerbaijan, Armenia and
Europe.
57. Sharang artillery Gun inducted into Indian Army
The Sharang Artillery Gun is to be inducted into Indian Army on February 8, 2020. The
artillery guns are currently produced at the Kanpur ordnance factory.
1. Highlights
The Sharang artillery guns have been upgraded from 130 mm to 155 mm. Also, the
hitting range of the gun system has been increased from 12 kilo metres to 39 kilo
metres. It was tested at the Balasore DRDO facility in January 2019.
2. Background
In October 2018, Ministry of Defence and the state-owned Ordnance Factory Board
signed agreements to upgrade the artillery guns. The Sharang upgrade kit costs less
than 7- lakh rupees per gun.
3. Ordnance Factory Board (OFB)

The Ordnance Factory Board was set up in 1775 at Fort William, Kolkata. The Board
governs around 41 factories of India at 24 different location. There are 10 such factories
in Maharashtra, 9 in UP, 6 in MP, 6 in TN, 4 in West Bengal, 2 in Uttaranchal, 1 in
Telangana, Chandigarh, Bihar and Odisha.
58. Bandhan: Transfer of Technology Ceremony held at DefExpo
On February 7, 2020, the transfer of technology ceremony was held at DefExpo 2020.
According to the agreement, the organization transferred 15 licenses to 17 industries.
The licenses transferred were all on technologies developed by DRDO. The ceremony
was named Bandhan.
1. Highlights
The transfer of technologies is in the field of laser technology, electronics, armaments,
material science, naval systems, combat vehicles, sensors and aeronautics. In the year
2019, around 114 technologies were transferred.
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2. Why UP in specific?
The GoI is currently targeting to increase the exports of Defence Sector. In order to
achieve this, it is encouraging private firms to increase their defence production. The UP
state government has allocated land in the Defence Corridors for the private sectors to
build defence industries.
3. Other Key takeaways

The 11th edition of DefExpo 2020 being held at Lucknow is the largest of all the defence
exhibition held so far. So far, the DefExpo has launched 13 products, 71 MoUs and 18
transfer of technologies. More than 200 agreements have been signed. The Uttar
Pradesh Government alone has signed 23 MoUs of worth Rs 50,000 crores.
59. Pangolin identified as the host of Corona Virus in China
On February 7, 2020, the most trafficked mammal of Asia, Pangolin was identified as the
host of the virus by the researchers of China. According to them, the outbreak that killed
around 636 people in China has started from a market in Wuhan city through Pangolin.
1. Highlights
The Genome sequence of the corona virus separated from Pangolin was 99% identical to
those of the virus stains obtained from infected persons in China. Earlier in 2002-03,
when the SARS outbreak occurred, the virus transferred to humans from civet (a
mammal). Civet is prized in China for its flesh. The sale of Civet was outlawed in China in
the wake of SARS epidemic.
2. Pangolin
There are 8 species of Pangolins all over the world. They are listed under threatened in
IUCN red list. Pangolins have the highest protection under CITES. The international trade
of Pangolins has been banned.
60. WHO organizes Global Research Forum on Corona Virus
The World Health Organization is to host Global Research Forum between February 11,
2020 and February 12, 2020. The event is to be co-hosted by Global Research
Collaboration for Infectious Disease Preparedness.
1. Highlights
The event will bring together leading public health agencies, leading scientists, funders.
The experts will build their research on MERS and SARS virus information. This will help
to minimize the impact of the virus. The main aim of the forum is to fasten the research
and innovation of corona virus.
2. Current Scenario
There are more than 34,915 reported corona virus cases all over the world. The virus has
so far killed 724. Around 2,085 have recovered.
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3. India’s recent Actions
The Ministry of Shipping on February 7, 2020 issued directives to prevent the virus from
entering India. The Ministry has placed screening, detection and quarantine system. It
will also install thermal scanners. This will be highly helpful to screen passengers
entering India through cruises. The Tourism sector is currently vulnerable to the virus,
especially in Kerala.
61. RBI to release Digital Payment Index by July 2020
The Reserve Bank of India announced that it will create a Digital Payment Index by July
2020. The main aim of the index creation is to capture the extent of digitization of
monetary payments in the country
1. Highlights
With the launch of Digital India and the GoI’s push towards Digital Economy, the digital
payments in the country has been growing fast. In order to monitor the digital payments,
the Central Bank is to release Digital Payment Index. The index will reflect the
penetration of digital payments in the country.
2. Significance
The Index will help to study the impact of policy interventions that are being taken by
the GoI.
3. Factors influencing digital growth in India

The five factors that are influencing digital growth in India includes low data tariffs, rise
in videos, widespread use of OTT (Over-the-top) platforms. Today India ranks the highest
in video making platform.
February 9, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
62. India-Central Asia Business Council launched in New Delhi
The Ministry of External Affairs along with FICCI (Federation of Indian Chambers of
Commerce and Industry) recently launched the India-Central Asia Business Council. They
were joined by 5 countries namely Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan and
Kyrgyz Republic. The Council will act as a common platform for the businesses of Central
Asia and India.
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1. Highlights
According to the External Ministry trade between the countries stand at 2 billion USD.
The Council discussed on making the Chabahar port commercially attractive. The Council
will also aim at promoting trade and investment between India and the four countries.
They will focus on oil and gas, renewable and non-renewable energy, life sciences,
pharmaceutical, agro-food processing, IT, urban infrastructure, tourism and transport.
2. Background
The Council is the outcome of India and Central Asia Dialogue that was held in
Samarkand, Uzbekistan in 2019. The Dialogue and the Council formed are part of India’s
Central Asia Policy. Under Central Asia Policy India aims to build strong political relations
and will aim to strengthen security cooperation.
63. DefExpo: India-UK sign MoU to strengthen Defence and Aerospace

Relations
The Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and UK India Business Council
(UKIBC) signed Memorandum of Understanding to bring upon closer defence ties
between the countries. The agreement was signed at DefExpo that is being held in
Lucknow.
1. Highlights
The MoU was signed to build partnership between Aerospace and Defence sector of the
countries. It will also help in transfer of technologies between the countries. The defence
industries of both the countries will work together to form strong economic and industrial
cooperation.
2. UK-India Business Council

The Council is a non-profit organization that fosters trade relations between India and
UK. The Council was formed in 1993 as the Indo British Partnership. It is a sister
organization of UK-ASEAN Business Council.
3. India-UK
India is the third largest foreign investor of UK. The number of Indian students studying
in UK is the second largest in the world after US.
64. First Disha Police Station inaugurated in Andhra Pradesh to work on

violence against women
On February 8, 2020, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Jagan Mohan Reddy inaugurated the
first Disha Police Station. The police stations are first of their kind in the state and will
deal with crimes against women.
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1. Highlights
The Andhra Pradesh Government is to inaugurate 18 Disha Police Stations by the end of
February 2020. Every police station is to add 26 to 47 police officers. The 18 Disha police
stations will act as upgraded versions of existing women police stations. The stations
have been allocated fund of 30% of special allowance. The stations are established
under Disha act, 2019.
2. Disha Act
In December 2019, the Andhra Pradesh Government passed the Disha Bill, 2019. The bill
aims to complete investigation of cases related to crimes against women within 7 to 14
days. It also prescribes death penalty under Section 376 of IPC (Indian Penal Code).
3. Background
The act was passed after a 26-year-old veterinarian was brutally raped and murdered in
Telangana.
65. BBIN nations deliberated on MoU to implement Motor Vehicle

Agreement
On February 8, 2020, the BBIN (Bangladesh, Bhutan, India and Nepal) nations
deliberated MoU (Memorandum of Understanding) to implement the Motor Vehicle
Agreement to regulate personal, passenger and cargo vehicular traffic.
1. Highlights
The meeting discussed on cargo and protocols to regulate passenger and cargo services.
Bhutan attended the meeting as an observatory nation. The regulation was signed on
June 15, 2015. The agreement was delayed as Bhutan being a carbon negative country
did not ratify it.
2. Current Scenario
The other three countries Nepal, Bangladesh and India are to go ahead on implementing
the agreement with Bhutan as an observer. The agreement facilitates road transport and
discusses various aspects of draft protocol to move the cargo vehicles. The agreement
will aid India in implementing its Neighbourhood First Policy.
3. Funds
The financial support to implement BBIN Motor Vehicular Agreement is being funded by
Asian development Bank. The bank provides advisory, technical and financial support to
the BBIN MVA initiative.
66. National Conference on E-Governance held in Mumbai; National E-

Governance Awards presented
The 23rd National Conference on E-Governance was held in Mumbai to transform

governance using digital technologies. The conference adopted Mumbai Declaration.
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1. Highlights
The Conference also assessed the national e-governance services being delivered by all
the states and Union Territories. Delhi, Chandigarh and Daman and Diu emerged as the
leaders in delivering e-governance services among Union Territories. Among the states,
Haryana and Rajasthan emerged as leaders.
2. Awards
The awards were presented to government entities that excelled in implementing
National E-Governance initiatives. National Health Authority and Ayushman Bharat
received gold awards under the category of government process re-engineering for
Digital Transformation. Under the category of providing citizen-centric delivery of
services, Department of IT of Haryana received the gold medal.
67. Facts Box: Lucknow Declaration of India-Africa Defence Ministers’

Conclave
The India-African Nations Defence Ministers’ Conclave was held at the side lines of
DefExpo India 2020. The Conclave adopted Lucknow Declaration in the presence of
Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. The Declaration was signed by 50 African Nations.
1. Highlights
Under the declaration, the leaders called on to set up Defence Academies in countries
such as Nigeria, Tanzania and Ethiopia. In order to achieve this, training teams are to be
deployed. The teams are to be deployed in Mauritius, Seychelles, Zambia, Namibia,
Botswana, Lesotho, Tanzania and Uganda.
2. Defence and Maritime Cooperation

The leaders agreed to strengthen their cooperation in building the African Standby
Forces and also to support peace keeping centres in Africa. The African Leaders also
agreed to increase the involvement of troop contribution in UN peace keeping missions.
68. Sri Lankan Prime Minister visits India: Terrorism and Trade discussed
On February 8, 2020, the Sri Lankan Prime Minister Mahinda Rajapaksa held high level
talks with PM Modi during his five-day visit to India. The leaders held talks about
terrorism, trade and economic projects in New Delhi
1. Highlights
The meet will enhance mutual economic trade and investment. The leaders also
discussed improving tourism and connectivity. On the side lines of the meet, PM Modi
announced that India will provide a grant of 400 million USD for developmental projects
in Sri Lanka. The countries also have plans to expand the housing projects undertaken
by India in the island to all parts of the country. India has also allocated 50 million USD
to help the country deal with terrorism.
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2. India-Sri Lanka
The location of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean has been strategic geopolitical relevance to
many major powers. The Chinese are building gigantic modern ports in the Indian Ocean.
It includes Hambantota (Sri Lanka), Gwadar (Pakistan), Kyauk Phru (Myanmar) and
Chittagong (Bangladesh).
69. Best Performing Smart Cities paired up with least performing to

work as SISTER CITIES
The Union Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs has paired up 20 best performing smart
cities with least performing cities. They will work as “sister cities”.
1. Highlights
The best performing cities include Tiruppur, Nagpur, Bhopal, Ranchi, Kanpur, Surat,
Indore, Vellore, Vishakhapatnam, Varanasi, Vellore, Nashik, Vadodara, Pune, Kota,
Davangere, Dehradun, Udaipur, Amaravati and Agra.
2. Cities in India
According to Census 2011, cities in India accommodate more than 31% of population of
India. They contribute 63% of GDP. It is expected that their contribution towards GDP is
to increase by 75% by 2030. Therefore, it is important make sustainable developments
in the urban sector adopting innovative technologies.
70. February 9: Ravidas Jayanti celebrated across India
The birth anniversary of the 14th century saint Ravidas was celebrated all over India on
Febraury 9th. PM Modi and President Kovind and other leaders paid tribute to Guru
Ravidas.
1. Highlights
The saint emphasized brotherhood and harmony to bring upon positive change in the
society. His songs are included in Guru Granth Sahib.
2. About Ravidas
Ravidas was an Indian mystic poet. His teachings are highly popular in the states of
Rajasthan, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and Madhya Pradesh. The poet was a
social reformer. His teachings deal with Nirguna-Saguna theme.
3. Nirguna-Saguna
Nirguna is knowledge focused and Saguna is love-focused. These two were alternate
ways of imagining god during the Bhakti Movement.
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4. Bhakti Movement
Bhakti movement began to reform Hinduism. It swept over North and East India between
15th and 17th century. In South India it originated in 18th century. It acted as a catalyst
for the formation of Sikhism. At the end of the movement, salvation that was available
only to men was then available to everyone!
February 10, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
71. Kaamya Karthikeyan: Mumbai Girl becomes the youngest to climb Mt

Aconcagua
On February 9, 2020, Kaamya Karthikeyan became the youngest girl to climb the highest
peak in South America, Mt Aconcagua.
1. Highlights
Kaamya Karthikeyan is a Class VII student studying in Navy Children School. She has set
the record of become the youngest in the world to summit the highest peak of the Andes
Mountain Range, Mt Aconcagua. She has also summited Mt Mentok Kangri II in August
2019.
2. Explorers Grand Slam

It is an adventurer goal to summit 7 highest peaks of the world and also to reach North
Pole and South Pole. The seven summits include Mt Everest, Denali, Aconcagua,
Kilimanjaro, Vinson and two other highest mountain peaks chosen by the designates.
72. Africa Union Summit held at Addis Ababa
The African Union Summit was held in Addis Ababa, capital of Ethiopia to tackle
terrorism in the continent. The Summit is important for India as India has recently signed
the defence agreement, Lucknow Declaration with 50 African countries at DefExpo 2020.
India is planning considerable investment in Defence sector in the regions of African
Union.
1. Highlights
The African leaders met in Addis Ababa to discuss increasing terrorism in Africa. The
leaders met in Addis Ababa under the theme
2. 2019 Major Crises

The Peace and Security Council of the Africa Union intervened with the Sudan’s
Revolution and also helped to produce an agreement between Central African Republic
and the rebels.
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3. African Union
The creation of African Union was revived under the leadership of Libyan head Muammar
Al-Gaddafi. The Union was established through Sirte Declaration.
73. Parth: World’s Cheapest Gun Shot Locator developed by Indian Army
The Indian Army’s College of Military Engineering with a private firm developed the gun
shot locators called “Parth”. These are much cheaper than the ones imported. The
device was showcased at DefExpo 2020.
1. Highlights
The cost of the device developed is around 3 lakhs. When these devices are replaced
with the imported ones, the costs are around Rs 65 lakhs. The device is capable of
locating a bullet from a distance of 400 metres and will help to neutralize in a faster
way.
2. Gunshot Locator
It is the system that locates gunfire and other weapons such as sensors. These devices
are used by security, military, law enforcement and businesses to identify the direction
of gun fires.
3. Significance
The development of these type of equipment are currently important for the Indian
Army. These developments come at a time when the centre has abrogated Article 370.
They are important to keep counter terrorism operations in Kashmir Valley under control.
74. Corona Virus Ranking: India ranks 17 in importing Corona Virus
The researchers of Robert Koch institute in Germany and Humboldt University have
founded mathematical model to predict global spread of novel corona virus cases. India
was ranked 17th in the ranking system. So far three cases have been reported in Kerala.
They are all from Kerala
1. Highlights
In India, among all the cities, cities with international airports namely Mumbai,
Bengaluru, Kolkata, Chennai, Hyderabad and Kochi are at high risks.
2. Current Scenario of Corona Virus

The China National Health Commission recently reported that so far 908 people have
died due to the virus so far. Due to the virus, food prices have hiked by 20.6% in China.
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75. NASA sends probes to map poles of the sun
NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) of the United States and the ESA
(European Space Agency) will send space probes to the sun to map its poles. The solar
orbiter was launched on February 9, 2020.
1. Highlights
The probe will use gravitational influence of the Earth and Venus to position itself at 26
million miles from the sun. It is 95% of distance between the sun and the earth. The
probe will map the poles for the first time. This will help scientists to observe the solar
winds. The solar winds permeate the solar system.
2. Solar Winds
The solar winds are released from the upper atmosphere of the sun. These winds carry
charged particles and magnetic clouds from the sun. These winds are capable of
damaging life on the earth. Therefore, it is important to learn about these winds. They
are now being filtered by the thick atmosphere around the earth.
76. Cauvery Delta of Tamil Nadu declared Protected Agricultural Zone
On February 10, 2020, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu announced that Cauvery Delta is to
be declared as Protected Special Agricultural Zone. In 2019, the Central Government had
awarded the oil and gas exploration projects in the Cauvery basin. This invoked large
protests amid water crisis in the state. Extraction of hydro carbon requires excess
amount of fresh water.
1. Highlights
With the zone being Agricultural protected Zone, the permission of State government is
required to undertake projects. This infers that oil exploration projects cannot be
undertaken by the private firms without the permission of state government.
2. Agricultural Protection Zone

When a land is announced as Protected Agricultural Zone, it cannot be used for any
other non-agricultural activities.
3. Significance
The Environmental Impact Assessment of 2006 that was recently amended by the
central government gives permission for ONGC and other private firms. And since
Cauvery Delta is rich in Hydrocarbons, it is essential to protect the agricultural land in
the region.
77. NCRB report on women and child trafficking: Mumbai and Kolkata
highest
In 2011, the Supreme Court had constituted a panel to submit its report on children and
women trafficking. The panel submitted its report in 2019. It had recommended NCRB
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(National Crime Records Bureau) to compile data on missing children and women
trafficking. The key findings of the report prepared by NCRB is as follows
1. Findings
The report says that the common causes of trafficking are sexual exploitation, child
labour and domestic help. Mumbai and Kolkata reported maximum number of trafficking.
2. United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime

The UNODC Global Report, 2018, reported that the 35% of victims trafficked were for
forced labour. Also, more than half of the reported cases were females.
78. India to host 13th COP of UN’s Conservation of Migratory Species;

PM Modi to inaugurate
The 13th Conference of Parties (COP) of the Convention on Conservation of Migratory

Species of Wild Animals is to be held in India between February 17, 2020 and February
22, 2020. The Conference is called the CMS-COP-13 in short. The Conference is to be
hosted by the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change on behalf of India
1. Highlights
India has been designated as the President of the Conference for the next three years.
The representatives from 130 countries are to participate in the conference. The theme
of the conference is as follows
2. Indian Bustard
The Conservation status of Indian Bustard is Critically Endangered in IUCN red list. Their
population has been greatly reduced to 250 individuals in 2008. Their main threats
include poaching, hunting, habitat loss, etc.
3. Significance of India in the conference

Indian Sub-Continent is part of major bird flyway network. It covers areas between Arctic
and Indian Ocean. Also, there are more than 182 migratory water bird species and 29
globally threatened species in India.
79. National Snooker championship: Aditya Mehta defeats multiple time

world champion
Aditya Mehta from Mumbai, Maharashtra won the National Snooker championship held
at Pune. He defeated multiple time world champion Pankaj Advani. In Women’s Snooker
Finals, Vidya Pillai from Madhya Pradesh won the title.
1. History
Snooker is a game played on Billiard board. It originated among the British army officers
stationed in India. The World Snooker Championship is the leading tournament that is
being held since 1927.
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2. Aditya Mehta
Aditya Mehta ranks 49 in the world ranking of Snooker players. He has so far won gold
medals at world level and Asian level games.
3. Cue Sports
There are three main categories of cue sports namely carom billiards, pool and snooker.
Carrom billiards are played without pockets on tables. Pool games are billiard games
that are played on six pocket tables. They are similar to snooker games. The only
difference between the games is that number of balls used in snooker is 22 and in that
of pool is 9.
80. February 10: National Deworming Day
Every year National Deworming Day is observed twice on February 10th and August
10th. The event is observed by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare. The implementing
agency under the ministry is National Health Mission.
1. Highlights
On the Deworming Day, the deworming tablet Albendazole is administered to children.
The event is being observed twice a day since 2015. In the first round, 8.9 crore children
in the age of 1-19 years were covered. Every year, the coverage of children were
increased. In February 2019, 22.12 crore children were infected.
2. Significance
WHO data says that there are around 241 million children in India in the age group of 1
to 14 years that are affected due to parasitic intestinal worms. This says that India
accounts to 28% of total number of children who are at the risk of parasitic intestinal
infections.
February 11, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
81. First Jerusalem-Mumbai festival held in Mumbai
The Jerusalem-Mumbai festival is to be held in Mumbai on February 15, 2020 to promote

artistic and cultural ties between Israel and India. The festival is first of its kind.
1. Highlights
The aim of the festival is to establish links between the cities Jerusalem and Mumbai.
The idea was mooted during PM Modi’s visit to Israel in July 2019. The festival will boost
cultural ties between the countries that will help to boost the partnership between them.
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2. Objective
The main aim of the festival is to promote cooperation between the countries in the field
of music, culinary art and dance.
3. Significance
The festival will act as a common platform for the individuals from cinema, high-
technology and tourism to cooperate, learn from each other and also develop.
4. Background
Israel has so far done similar cooperation with the countries such as Prague, Brussels
and Moscow.
5. Israel-Palestine
India maintains cordial relations between both Israel and Palestine. India urges both the
countries to frame solutions. The “two-state solution” envisioned for the countries aims
to solve the key matter of dispute between the countries. The countries conflict over
boundaries.
82. Ajeya Warrior: India-UK to hold joint military exercise
India-UK hold joint exercise called Ajeya Warrior on February 13, 2020. The exercise is
being held from 2005.
1. Highlights
Around 120 soldiers are to participate in the exercise. This is the fifth edition of the
exercise. The countries will hold the exercise in Salisbury Plains.
2. Salisbury Plains
The Salisbury plains are located in Chalk Plateau. The plains are famous for
archaeological monument Stonehenge.
3. Stonehenge
Stonehenge in England was built in Neolithic and Bronze age between 3000 BC and 2000
BC. It is one of the World Heritage Site of UNESCO. Archaeologists believe that
Stonehenge would have been a burial ground. Deposits of human bones were found in
the site that were dated to 3000 BC.
4. Other Exercises
India and UK hold joint naval exercises called Konkan exercise from 2004. The countries
also hold Indra Dhanush Exercise since 2006. Indra Dhanush is a joint air-to-air exercise.
5. India-UK Defence Ties

The Defence ties between India and UK is limited. India has acquired 123 Hawk
Advanced Jet Trainer aircraft from UK.
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83. Under-19 Cricket World Cup 2020 won by Bangladesh for the first
time
On February 9, 2020, Bangladesh won Under 19 Cricket World Cup organized by

International Cricket Cup (ICC).
1. Highlights
The Bangladesh team beat India to win the ICC U19 title. Bangladesh won the title for
the first time in its history. The tournament was held in South Africa between January 17,
2020 and February 9, 2020.
2. History
The first U19 world cup was held in 1998. Since then the ICC U19 tournament has been
held as a biennial event. India has so far won the tournament four times.
3. ICC
The International Cricket council is the governing body of cricket. IT was founded in 1909
by the representatives from England, Australia and South Africa. The organization
conducts Cricket world Cup and ICC T20 World Cup. The umpires for the matches are
appointed by ICC. It also sets standards for international cricket.
84. United Nations World Pulses Day celebrated in New Delhi
On February 10, 2020 the Union Minister of Agriculture and Farmers Welfare inaugurated
the celebrations of World Pulses Day in New Delhi that aims to increase the production
of pulses.
1. Significance
Pulses are important to improve soil fertility. They help to increase the productivity of
the farmland. They also help to promote farm bio diversity by using intercropping
methods. Also, the pulses help to reduce dependence on synthetic fertilizers as they
naturally introduce nitrogen in the soil.
2. Background
The UN Pulses Day resolution was adopted in 2013 claiming the year 2016 as
International Pulses Day. The day is being celebrated since 2019. By celebrating the day,
the United Nations aim to increase public awareness of environmental and nutritional
benefits of pulses.
3. Pulses Production in India

India became self-sufficient in pulses since 2016-17. In 2018-19, India produced 22
million tonnes of pulses. It is now working to achieve the target of 26.30 million tonnes
by 2018-19.
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85. Web Portal launched to provide star rating of coal mines
The Ministry of coal launched web portal in New Delhi to provide star rating of coal
mines. Based on the star rating the highest scoring mines are to be awarded.
1. Highlights
According to the new system, the mines scoring between 91% and 100% will get 5 star,
below 91% and above 81% will receive 4 star and so on. The coal mines will be provided
with login id to self evaluate themselves by submitting required documents. The mines
are to be rated based on 50 parameters.
2. Current Scenario
India consumes coal predominantly for electricity generation. The other industries that
consume coal include steel and washery, cement industry and sponge iron industry. In
2017-18, India consumed 896.34 million tonnes of coal. However, due to higher demand,
India imported 208 million tonnes of coal in 2017-18.
86. Amazon invests 1.5 billion USD for two Data Centres under Data
Centre Policy of Telangana
The E-Commerce Giant Amazon Web Services has planned to invest 1.5 billion USD to
set up two data centres in Hyderabad. The private firm will be helped by the Telangana
Government under its Data Centre Policy
1. Highlights
The private firm Amazon has set a target of 5 billion USD of global investments for the
next four years. In 2019, the company opened 1.8 million feet office in Gachibowli,
Hyderabad that can accommodate more than 15,000 employees. The office is the first
largest building owned by Amazon outside US.
2. Data Centre Policy

The Government of Telangana has framed a dedicated policy for data centres. Under the
policy, the government will provide incentives to the firms that set up data centres in the
state.
3. Data Centres
Data Centres are dedicated spaces that are used to house computer systems that are
used for data storage purposes. A data centre that is of the size of an industry (like that
to be constructed in Hyderabad) will consume as much electricity as that of a small
town.
87. Public Enterprises Survey: Air India, MTNL, BSNL highest loss
makings PSUs in FY19
On February 10, 2020, the Department of Public Enterprises operating under Ministry of
Heavy Industries tabled the “Public Enterprises Survey” on the parliament. The report
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says that the net profit from the PSUs has increased by 15.5% as compared to the
previous year.
1. Highlights
The survey said that Indian Oil Corporation, NTPC and ONGC were the top three
profitable PSUs in 2018-19. On the other hand, MTNL, BSNL and Air India were the
highest loss-making PSU. Also, the survey noted that these three PSUs have been
making losses for three consecutive years.
2. Relative performance
The enterprises such as MSTC, Chennai Petroleum Corporation and State Trading
Corporation that were making profit last year (2017-18) incurred loss in the fiscal year
2019 (2019-19).
88. Disaster Management Exercise of BIMSTEC NDRF begins in

Bhubaneswar
The National Disaster Response Force of Government of India is to host the second
BIMSTEC Disaster Management Exercise-2020 (BIMSTEC DMEx-2020). The exercise is to
be held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha between February 11, 2020 and February 13, 2020.
1. Highlights
The BIMSTEC countries namely Bangladesh, India, Myanmar, Sri Lanka and Nepal are to
participate in the exercise. The other two BIMSTEC countries namely Thailand and
Bhutan are not participating in the exercise this time. The exercise includes Table Top
Exercise on Hotel Myfair. The Hotel is a collapsed structure. On the second day, field
training exercise is to be held on aquatic disaster response that will focus on Ramachndi
beach in Puri. The beach is a cultural heritage site.
2. Theme
The exercise is held under the theme
89. February 11: International Day of Women and Girls in Science
The International Day of Women and Girls in Science is being observed by the United
Nations on February 11 every year since 2015. The Organization passed a resolution to
observe the day in order to recognize the role played by girls and women in science and
technology.
1. Highlights
The day is being celebrated in collaboration with organizations all over the world that
work towards promoting women and girls in the field of science.
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2. Significance
It is important to observe the day because there are only 30% of women researchers all
over the world. Also, their contribution in the field of STEM is also less as compared to
men.
90. Sale of Integrated Air Defence Weapon System to India approved by

US
On February 11, 2020, United States approved sale of Integrated Air Defence Weapon
System to India. The cost of the system is estimated as 1.86 billion USD.
1. Highlights
India aims to buy Integrated Air Defence Weapon System (IADWS) from the US in order
to modernize its armed forces. It will help India to counter threats posed by air attacks.
US President is to visit India between February 23 and February 26, 2020. The countries
are expected to seal the deal during his visit.
2. NASAMS-II
The National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System was developed by USA in
partnership with Norway. NASAMS-II is an upgraded version of NASAMS of Norway called
Norwegian Advanced Surface to Air Missile System.
3. Significance
It is important for India to modernize its weapon systems. This is because China is
undertaking massive military modernization. It is also increasing its presence in the
Indian Ocean Region.
February 12, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
91. WHO names the new Corona Virus: “COVID-19”
On February 11, 2020, the World Health Organization announced a new name for the
Corona Virus, “COVID-19”. Today more than 42,000 are infected with the virus according
to the organization.
1. Highlights
WHO has chosen the name with no reference to geographical location. According to
WHO, the name was chosen in such away that it does not affect normal lives of a
country.
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2. MERS
MERS is Middle East Respiratory Syndrome. It is a deadly Corona Virus strain that was
first reported in Saudi Arabia and created havoc in China greatly. However, the name of
the virus has created a fact that there is something about the middle east region that
causes MERS viral infection.
3. H1NI
In 2009, swine flu created pandemic. It has now been renamed to H1N1 as its strain was
similar to that of the influenza virus. The influenza virus is known to circulate among
pigs. Though there was no evidence that H1N1 circulates in a similar way, it affected the
sales of pork greatly that year. Therefore, it is important for WHO to choose the name of
the viruses very carefully.
92. Medical Devices now to be regulated under Drugs and Cosmetics Act
On February 11, 2020, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare announced that medical
devices are to be brought under Drugs and Cosmetics act (DCA). This is to come into
effect from April 1, 2020
1. Highlights
According to the regulation, every product that is used to treat a patient will now be
under the ambit of DCA. It includes MRI, CT scan, thermometer, dialysis machines, etc. A
list of 37 devices has been included. This includes medical devices used on animals as
well.
2. Drugs and Cosmetics Act

The DCA regulates manufacture, distribution and import of drugs in India. It was passed
in 1940. The act was prepared based on the recommendations of Chopra Committee
that was constituted in 1930.
93. Bhabha Kavach: New bullet proof jacket developed by BARC-to be

used by CISF
The Bhabha Atomic Research Centre developed a new bullet proof jacket called Bhabha
Kavach. The jackets are to be used by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF).
1. Highlights
Around 5 pieces of Bullet proof jackets were handed over to the CISF. The nominal
weight of the jacket is 6.8kg. It is the lightest level-3 plus jacket. It has been produced
based on carbon nanotube and hot- pressed boron carbide technologies
2. About the jacket

The jacket is lightest of its kind as compared to the other jackets that weigh around 17
kgs. The Ministry of Home Affairs has approved to induct the jacket into all Central
Armed Police Forces. The jackets will be produced at large scale in Ordnance Factories
and MIDHANI (Mishra Dhatu Nigam Limited) through transfer of technologies.
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94. Ground Water Act, 2020 approved by UP cabinet
On February 11, 2020, the Uttar Pradesh Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister Yogi
Adityanath approved Ground Water Act-2020. The act aims to improve ground water
level.
1. Key Features of the act

The act makes the registration of submersible pumps mandatory. The farmers and
domestic users need not pay fees to use the pumps. The act makes rain water
harvesting mandatory in all private schools, colleges.
2. Ground Water in India

It is essential to monitor the ground water activities in India. This is important because,
according to Parliament Committee Report, 2016 around 9 states in India has used 90%
of their ground water without leaving a chance of recharging. Also, the increase in
presence of metallic elements such as Arsenic, Uranium, Iron is increasing.
95. GoI released Draft Visionary Perspective Plan (2020-30) to Conserve

Avian Ecosystem ahead of CMS COP-13
Ahead of the Conservation of Migratory Species Conference of Parties-13 (CMS COP-13),

the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change has introduced a draft Visionary
Perspective Plan (2020-2030) to conserve ecosystems, habitats, avian diversity and
landscapes in the country.
Visionary Perspective Plan (2020-2030)

 According to the draft, there are 1,317 bird species in India. Out of these 72 are endemic, 100
are threatened, 17 are critically endangered, 63 are vulnerable and 20 are endangered.
Around 270 species of avifauna fall under “rare” category. It includes pheasants, hornbills,
bustards, storks and cranes.
 The birds are prone to extinction mainly due to poaching, fragmentation of ecosystem,
habitat loss and epidemics. The draft also says that stray dog population has increased due
to catastrophic decline in population of vultures.
 The draft says that around 219 bird bio-diversity areas are under severe anthropogenic
pressure.
 The draft also says that 2,01,503 wetlands spread across 2.25 hectares in India are under
stress. This is mainly due to agricultural run-offs and urbanization.
96. Corona Virus Vaccine: UK starts testing on Mice; WHO says vaccine
to be ready in 18 months
The scientists in UK have tested a new Corona Virus vaccine. The Shanghai University of
China has also extracted a vaccine to treat the virus and has injected in to a mice
recently.
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1. Highlights
On February 10, 2020, WHO announced that the death toll of the corona virus has
reached 1,000 and 99% of the deaths were from China. There are more than 43,000
cases in China currently.
2. About Corona Virus

The Corona Viruses are divided into 4 genera namely alpha, beta, gamma and delta.
They are zoonotic. This means they can spread between animals and humans. Out of
these, gamma and delta corona viruses generally infect birds. Alpha and Beta viruses
reside in mammals.
97. February 11: World Unani Day: Birth Anniversary of Hakim Ajmal
Khan celebrated
Every year, on February 11, the birth Anniversary of Hakim Ajmal Khan is celebrated as
World Unani Day. He was an Indian Unani Physician and a social reformer. The main aim
of the World Unani Day os to spread awareness about Unani medical system, its
preventive and curative philosophies.
1. History
The Unani Medicinal system originated in Greece. Later the Arabs saved much of the
Greek Unani Literature and rendered it into Arabic.
2. Hakim Ajmal Khan

He was born on 11 February, 1868. He was one of the founders of Jamia Millia Islamia.
He also founded Ayurvedic and Unani college called the Tibbia College in Delhi. He was a
descendant of one of the line of physicians who came to India during reign of Mughal
Emperor Babar. These physicians were called the Rais of Delhi.
98. National Winter Games to be held in Gulmarg
The National Winter Games is to be held in Gulmarg from March 7, 2020. The games are
to be held for five days in Gulmarg, the world-famous Ski destination. It is being held
under Khelo India.
1. Highlights
The Department of Tourism is to create wide publicity about the event through
roadshows. Around 30 events are to be held at the national winter games under four
disciplines. It includes snow skiing, snowboarding, snow-show and cross-country. Also,
snow cycling and other games are to be held for children.
2. Khelo India
Khelo India was first held in 2018. The main aim of Khelo India event is to hunt grassroot
level talent all over India. The talent are identified by the Talent Hunt Committee. Such
identifies sports persons are provided with scholarship of Rs 5 lakhs for 8 years.
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99. 43rd Session of International fund for Agricultural Development: UN

SDG 2030 not achievable
The International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) of the United Nations works
to address hunger and poverty in developing countries. The 43rd session of the
governing council of IFAD was held at Rome between February 11, 2020 and February
12, 2020. It was announced at the council meet that with the current progress rate, it is
not possible to achieve United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 2030.
1. Highlights
The Council met at the FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) of United Nations in
Rome. The UN believes that the SDG Goal can be achieved only after a decade, that is
by 2040. This is mainly because of lack of funds. In 2015 the world leaders under the
SDG aimed to eliminated hunger by 2030. Also, they estimated that it can be achieved
at a cost of 115 billion USD. However, today, they are in need of more investment to
achieve the target.
2. IFAD
IFAD is an agency of United Nations that addresses hunger and poverty in rural areas all
over the world. It was established at the World Food Conference in 1974.
100. Cabinet Approves amendment of Double Taxation Avoidance

Agreement with Sri Lanka
On February 12, 2020 the Union Cabinet approved the protocol to amend the DTAA
(Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement) that was signed between India and Sri Lanka.
The DTAA with respect to prevention of fiscal evasion is to be amended.
1. Highlights
Under the amendment, an anti-abuse provision is to be included. Also, the amendment
will include Principle Purpose Test. This will help in curbing strategies that exploit gaps in
tax rules.
2. Significance
Both Indian and Sri Lanka are members of major multilateral organizations such as
OECD, G20, BEPS. Therefore, it is essential for both the countries to implement
standards based on Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty related measures.
3. Why Principle Purpose Test?

India is a signatory of MLI, whereas Sri Lanka is not. Therefore, it is essential for the
countries to insert Principle Purpose Test to meet the minimum standards
4. What is MLI?
In 2016, around 100 countries signed Multilateral Convention to Implement Tax Treaty.
The treaty includes features that help to prevent Base Erosion and Profit Shifting. This is
called Multilateral Instrument or MLI.
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February 13, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
101. Cabinet Approval: Capital Infusion in three public sector Units OICL,
UIICL and NICL
On February 12, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved on capital infusion in three Public
Sector Units namely United India Insurance Company (UIICL), Oriental Insurance
Company Limited (OICL) and National Insurance Company Limited (NICL).
1. Highlights
During the meet the cabinet also approved an immediate release of Rs 2,500 crores in
order to address their critical financial position and also regulate their solvency
requirements. The capital infusion is aimed at merging the three insurance companies in
the future. Merging the companies will improve their operational efficiency and solvency
ratio.
2. Solvency Ratio
The Solvency ratio is the key metric used to measure the ability of an enterprise to meet
its debt obligation. It indicates if a company has sufficient cash flow in order to meet its
long term and short-term liabilities.
102. Cabinet Approval: India-Iceland MoU in Sustainable Fisheries

Development
On February 12, 2020 the Union Cabinet approved the Memorandum of Understanding
signed between India and Iceland in the field of fisheries.
1. Highlights
The countries had signed agreements in September 2019, to develop inland fisheries.
According to the agreement, the countries agreed to create facilities of technical experts
and scientists in shore areas and deep sea areas. They also agreed on exchange of
scientific research literature, scientific experts in the field of fisheries.
2. Fisheries in India
According to the Economic Survey 2020, fisheries contribute to 6.58% of India’s GDP
along with agriculture and forestry. The export of marine products for the year 2018-19
was 13.92 lakh tonnes. The survey also says that the total fish production of the country
stood at 13.42 million tonnes in the year 2018-19. The major fisheries resources of India
is spread across the vast coast line. It stands at 2.02 million square km of the Exclusive
Economic Zone.
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103. Cabinet approves Pesticide Management Bill 2020
On February 12, 2020 the Union Cabinet approved to table the Pesticide Management
Bill, 2020 in Parliament. The bill aims at making safe and effective pesticides for farmers.
The main aim of the bill is to replace the Insecticides Act, 1968.
1. Key Features
The bill includes provisions to provide compensation when there is farm loss due to use
of low-quality pesticides. The loss of farmers is to be paid using funds collected from the
manufacturers. The information regarding the pesticides available in the market is to be
made available in digital format. This will help farmers make the right choice.
2. Pesticides in India
Around 234 pesticides are used in India. Out of these 4 belongs to WHO’ Ia class
pesticides, 15 belong to WHO Ib class pesticide. There are 76 pesticides that belong to
WHO Class II pesticides. Also, only 40% of the pesticides used in the country are
registered.
3. WHO classification
The WHO classifies pesticides based on the hazards created by them. They are as
follows
104. Cabinet approves changes in Vivad Se Vishwas bill, 2020
The Vivad se Vishwas Scheme was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman
during the Budget 2020-21. On February 12, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to make
required changes in the Vivad Se Vishwas Bill, 2020 in order to widen its cover over
litigation pending in debt recovery tribunal.
1. Highlights
The amendment has been introduced in order to widen the scope of the scheme in debt
recovery tribunal.
2. About the Scheme

The scheme focuses on tax payers whose tax demands are locked in multiple disputes. It
is similar to the Indirect Tax Sabka Vishwas Scheme.
3. Vivad Se Vishwas Bill, 2020

The bill introduces a resolution mechanism through which an appellant can file a
declaration. The authority (resolution mechanism implementer) will determine the
amount payable within 15 days of the receipt of declaration.
105. Ayushman Bharat: School Health Ambassador initiative launched
On February 12, 2020, the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare introduced School
Health Ambassador initiative. Under the initiative, two teachers in every school are to be
made as Health and Wellness ambassador.
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1. Highlights
The initiative is to be linked with other initiatives such as Eat Right Campaign, Fit India
Movement and Poshan Abhiyan. 11 themes have been identified for the initiative. It
includes growing up healthy, interpersonal relationships, emotional well-being, values
and responsible citizenship, nutrition, health, gender equality, promotion of healthy
lifestyles, HIV prevention, safety and security against violence and promotion of safe use
of internet.
2. Training
The ambassadors are to be trained by the National Resource Group that was constituted
by the NCERT.
3. Implementation
The initiative in the first phase is to be implemented in upper primary and secondary
schools in aspirational districts. The remaining districts are to be included in the second
year of the initiative.
106. February 13: World Radio Day
Every Year February 13 is being celebrated as World Radio Day. The day is being
celebrated by UNESCO of United Nations. The organization calls all radio stations to
uphold matters of diversity. This year the day is celebrated under the theme
1. Objective
The main objective to celebrate World Radio Day is to increase awareness about radio
among media and public. It also aims to encourage key decision makers to provide
access to information through radio.
2. History
The World Radio Day was first celebrated in 2013. The resolution to celebrate World
Radio Day was taken in 2012 United Nations General Assembly.
3. Significance
Radio is still widely used medium of communication a global level. Also, radio stations
help to serve diverse communities, offer wide view-points and reflect diversity of
audience.radio
107. Draft Rules for International Arbitration Centre issued by GoI
On February 12, 2020, Government of India issued draft rules to set up International
Arbitration Centre. In order achieve institutionalized arbitration, GoI has enacted the
New Delhi International Arbitration act, 2019.
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1. Highlights
The draft rules for the arbitration centre prescribe allowances, pay of the full-time
members and the chairperson. The rules have also set minimum educational
qualification and method of selection of employees and officers of the centre.
2. Background
The Arbitration and Conciliation act, 1996 was amended to make the arbitration process
simpler. The New Delhi International Arbitration Centre Act, 2019 was enacted to make
Delhi an international arbitration centre.
3. What is International Arbitration Centre?

The International Arbitration Centre is a dispute settling body that settles arbitration
between individuals and companies.
108. “Apiary on Wheels” launched: A Unique Concept to help bee

keeping, achieve National Honey Mission
On February 13, 2020, the Ministry of MSME (Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises)
launched “Apiary on Wheels”. It is a unique concept framed by KVIC (Khadi and Village
Industries Commission). The main aim of “Apiary on Wheels” is to make migration easy.
1. Highlights
Apiary on wheels is an approach to make beekeeping simpler. It is a platform to carry 20
Bee Boxes. The vehicle has 2 large wheels on either sides and 4 separate compartments
to place the boxes.
2. Significance
It addresses the challenges faced by the beekeepers. Bee keeping involves laborious
and mental challenges such a placing the bee boxes in strategic positions, migrating the
bee boxes and fulfil the nourishment needs of the bees. The Apiary on Wheels addresses
all the above issues.
3. National Honey Mission

The mission since its launch has been training beekeepers, educating unemployed
youths, distributing bee boxes. Under the mission, KVIC provides training and awareness
to Bee farmers.
109. BIMSTEC: Conference on Combating Drug Trafficking inaugurated
On February 13, 2020, Union Minister Amit Shah launched the BIMSTEC Conference on
Combating Drug Trafficking in New Delhi. The event was organized by the Narcotics
Control Bureau. The Conference was attended by other BIMSTEC partners Bangladesh,
Myanmar, Bhutan, Nepal, Thailand and Sri Lanka.
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1. Highlights
The main objective of the conference is to control the illicit drug trading plaguing Bay of
Bengal states. India has taken lead in organizing the conference.
2. Significance
The Conference is important because India is currently focusing on Act East Policy and
Neighbourhood Policy. The BIMSTEC platform acts as a platform for India to achieve its
objectives.
3. India’s Measures
In order to control drug trafficking in the country, India has adopted Zero Tolerance
Policy. India has also taken steps at international level. For instance, India is a member
of INTERPOL (International Criminal Police Organization).
110. INS Jamuna deployed on Hydrographic Survey off coast Sri Lanka
The Indian Naval Ship (INS) Jamuna has been deployed in the shores of Sri Lanka to carry
out a joint Hydrographic survey. The survey is to be conducted for 2 months time period.
1. Highlights
India and Sri Lanka together are to carry out Hydrographic survey and also shore based
survey activities for a period of 2 months. Apart from surveying, the Sri Lankan Naval
Officers will be provided survey training.
2. Hydrographic Survey
The Hydographic survey is the measurement and study of features that affect maritime
navigation. It also includes offshore oil exploration, dredging, oil drilling and other
related activities. The standards and specifications to conduct the survey is released by
International Hydrographic Organization (IHO). It was established in 1921. The main aim
of IHO is to make sure world seas are surveyed and charted properly.
3. Indian Naval Hydrographic Department

The office of the department is located in Dehradun. Currently 8 Indian Naval Ships are
deployed in the hydrographic surveys. It includes INS Nirupak, INS Jamuna, INS
Investigator, INS Sutlej, INS Sandhayak, INS Darshak, INS Sarvekshak
February 14, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
111. President’s Colours Awards to INS Shivaji on its 75 years of Service
On February 13, 2020, President Ram Nath Kovind presented the President’s Colours
Awards to INS Shivaji. The Indian Naval Station Shivaji has completed 75 years of
service. Last year, the award was given to Indian Naval Academy.
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1. Highlights
The award was presented to the Indian Naval Station at Lonavala. The station was
commissioned as HMIS (Her Majesty’s Indian Ship) in 1945. The motto of the ship
establishment is
2. About INS Shivaji

The INS Shivaji houses Naval Engineering College that trains officers of Indian Navy and
Indian Coastal Guards. It is located near Bhushi Dam. There are three premier
institutions at INS Shivaji. It includes Centre of Excellence, Centre of Marine Engineering
and Nuclear, Biological and Chemical Defence School.
112. Foreign Envoys from Gulf and EU visit Jammu and Kashmir for the
second time
On February 13, 2020, foreign envoys from Gulf countries and European Union visited
Jammu and Kashmir for the second time after Abrogation of Article 370.
1. Highlights
The delegation met secretary level officers of Government of India and other senior
officers of Jammu and Kashmir. They also visited business women, traders,
entrepreneurs in Jammu and Kashmir. It includes envoys from Canada, Germany, France,
Mexico, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Italy, Austria, Poland and Uzbekistan.
2. Purpose
India is arranging for such foreign visits in order to demonstrate the outside world about
the measures being taken to restore normalcy in the valley. During the first visits of the
foreign delegates from European Union, concerns were raised over internet shutdown.
However, today, such issues have been addressed. Kashmir is being provided with 2G
speed internet by the GoI partially.
113. GoI hosts National Organic Food Festival in New Delhi
The Government of India is to host National Organic Food Festival at the National Capital
between February 21, 2020 and February 23, 2020. The festival is first of its kind.
Around 150 women entrepreneurs are to participate in the festival
1. Highlights
The Ministry of Food Processing is organizing National level Food Festival for 3 days.
Several Self-Help Groups are to exhibit their spices, fruits and vegetable, honey, dry
fruits, cereals, etc. The main aim of the festival is to boost production of organic
products. The festival is to be conducted under the theme
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2. Purpose
The festival aims to conduct training programmes, marketing innovation programmes,
imparting knowledge about supply of organic products. It will also conduct training
programmes on FSSAI regulations that will help to get familiarized with regulatory
processes.
3. Organic Market Potential of India

India is world’s 9th largest agricultural organic market in the world. It produces 1.7
million tonnes of organic foods. It includes cotton, pulses, fruits, tea, medicinal plants,
coffee, vegetables, sugarcane, oil seeds, etc.
4. Goal Set
India has set a goal of increasing business of organic sector to Rs 75,000 crores by 2025.
In 2015, it was Rs 27,000 crores.
114. India to partially open up Poultry and Diary Markets to imports

from US
Ahead of President Trump’s visit by the end of February 2020, GoI has announced that it
is to partially open the poultry and Diary market to imports from US.
1. Highlights
India will now allow imports of US turkey, chicken legs blueberries and cherries. The
tarrif on Chicken legs are to be cut from 100% to 25%. The Indian Diary Market is to be
opened with 5% tariff on some products. However, the diary imports will need
certificates that they are not derived from animals that have consumed feeds that
include blood meal, internal organs or tissues of animals.
2. Background
India being the largest producer of milk in the world had restricted diary imports. This
was done to protect the livelihood of 80 million rural households.
3. Concerns
Indi is the second largest trade partner of the United States after China. However, US
faces trade deficit of 23.2 million USD with India. United States is working in every
possible way to reduce the trade deficit.
115. International Hockey Federation names Indian Hockey Captain

“Player of the Year”, 2019
On February 13, 2020, the International Hockey Federation named the Indian Hockey
captain Manpreet Singh as Player of the Year, 2019.
1. Highlights
Manpreet is the first Indian to win the title. The accolade was introduced in 1999.
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2. Manpreet Singh
Manpreet Singh is the Indian National Hockey team captain since 2017. He was named
the Indian Squad at the 2016 Summer Olympics. He has played several international
games including Asian Games, Common Wealth Games, Men’s Hockey Champions
Trophy.
3. International Hockey Federation

The International Hockey Federation is the governing body of indoor field hockey and
field hockey. The headquarters is located in Lausanne, Switzerland. The Player of the
year award is given by the organization to men and women since 1998. The young
category of the honourary award was added in 2001.
116. Portugal President to make a 4-day visit to India
Portugal President Rebelo de Sousa is to make a four-day visit to India. The last visit by a
Portugal President to India was in 2007.
1. Highlights
The Portugal President during his visit will hold talks with President Ram Nath and PM
Modi. He will also travel to the states of Maharashtra and Goa. The countries will sign
agreements over transfer of technologies in water and sewerage management systems.
2. Significance
His visit comes ahead of his taking over as European Union Council Presidency. He will
preside over as the President of European Union in 2021. It is to be noted that the first
India-EU summit was held in 2000 during the presidency of Portugal.
3. European Union President

There are three Presidents of European Union namely, president of European Council,
president of European Parliament and President of European Commission. On the world
stage, the president of European Council is considered to be the principal president of
the organization.
117. UN’s IFAD Governing Council: Climate Change will push 100 millions
to poverty
The Governing Council of International Fund for Agriculture let in Rome recently. The
council says that by 2030 around 100 million people will be pushed to poverty. The
council also said that this is mainly due to climate change impact on agriculture.
1. Highlights
The Government representatives and global development from all over the world
attended the 43rd Governing Council of IFAD. The Council reported that around 90% of
17.2 million people displaced were due to climate-related disasters.
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2. Suggestions
The council suggest that there is an urgent need to invest on rural development. This
will help avoid the catastrophes arising due to climate change.
3. Other causes of Poverty

Apart from climate change, conflicts are the other major cause of poverty and hunger.
The Council says that in Africa alone, the conflicts have risen by 36% between 2018 and
2019.
4. Effect on Agriculture
Disasters and Conflicts greatly affect agriculture. They stop agricultural production and
stops millions from lifting themselves from their poor conditions.
118. Antarctica recorded the hottest temperature of 20.75 degrees

Celsius
The World Meteorological Organization announced that for the first time in record
Antarctica has recorded its hottest temperature ever, 20.75 Degree Celsius. So far, the
highest was 18.3 Degrees Celsius that was recorded in January 1982.
1. Highlights
The higher temperatures were influenced by shifts in El Nino and Ocean Currents.
According to United Nations scientists, the Antarctic region stores more than 70% of
world’s fresh water. If it melts, the sea level will increase by 50 to 60 metres.
2. Significance of Ice Sheet in Antarctica

The ice sheet in Antarctica covers 14 million square kilometres. To the east of Antarctica
there lies land masses under the ice sheets. However, on the west Antarctica the ice
beds can extend to more than 2500 metres under the sea.
119. India-Portugal sign 7 agreements
The Portugal President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is on a 4-day visit to India. During his
visit, he held talks with PM Modi. After their meeting 4 agreements were signed between
the countries
1. Highlights
The countries signed agreements on culture, transport, investment, industrial and
intellectual property rights. Agreements were also signed on developing a world class
national maritime heritage complex at Lothal.
2. Budget 2020-21
The Fund allocated in Budget 2020-21 for the Ministry of Culture was 3,150 crores and
for that of Ministry of Tourism was 2,500 crores.
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120. GoI approves two AIIMS institutes and 9 medical colleges for Jammu
and Kashmir
Since the Abrogation of Article 370, the GoI has been keenly focussing on improving the
infrastructure in the Kashmir region.
1. Highlights
The AIIMS proposal was approved by the Union Government under Pradhan Mantri
Swasthya Suraksha Yojana. The cost of the project estimated is Rs 1,661 crores. The
project is to be completed by 2022. The AIIMS will also hold nursing college. Above al,
the building is to be constructed as green building.
2. Green Building
Green Building is a structure that is resource efficient and environmentally responsible.
The building is resource efficient through out its phase starting from design,
construction, maintenance, renovation and demolition.
3. Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana

The Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana was launched in 2006. Under the
scheme, 6 institutions of AIIMS were to be built in first phase. They were in the states of
Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Chattisgarh, Odisha, Uttaranchal and Rajasthan.
February 15, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
121. India attends Munich Security Conference in Germany
The Munich Security Conference is being held in Germany between February 14, 2020
and February 16, 2020. The Conference was attended by External Affairs minister
Jaishankar representing India.
1. Highlights
The Minister met his counterparts of Georgia, Portugal and Lithuania on the sidelines of
the conference. The minister his Portugal Counterpart as a backdrop of its President
visiting India. With Portugal to preside over the leadership of the European Union
council, there are good opportunities for India to extend its relations with European
Union.
2. Munich Security Conference

The Conference is one of the world’s leading forum that debates on international
security policy. Every year more than 350 officials from 70 countries attend the
conference. It includes heads of the states, members of parliaments, representatives of
armed forces, business, media. etc. It was founded in 1963.
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122. Cha-Chai Art Work inaugurated at National Museum by Portuguese
president
The Portugal President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa is on a four-day visit to India. On

February 14, 2020, he along with the Minister of Tourism, India Prahlad Singh Patel
inaugurated a Cha-Chai art-work installation at the National Museum.
1. What is Cha-Chai Art Work?

The 5pm tea is a family tradition of the Portuguese. According to their family culture, it
strengthens family bonding. The Cha-Chai art work inaugurated was a teapot art work. It
symbolically depicts people to people relations between the countries.
2. Portuguese in Goa
The Portuguese had ruled Goa for more than 450 years. They arrived in India in the 14th
century. Today there are more than 10,000 to 12,000 Portuguese speakers in the state.
123. Anniversary of Pulwama Attack: Memorial inaugurated
On February 14, 2020, a memorial was inaugurated at the Lethpora camp for the 40
CRPF (Central Reserve Police Force) personnel who were killed in Pulwama Attack.
1. Highlights
The memorial consisted of names of jawans who lost their lives in the attack. It also held
the motto of CRPF, which is “Seva and Nishta” which means Service and Loyalty.
2. The Attack
In 2019, February 14, the Jaish-e-Mohammed terrorist Adeel ahmed Dar drove a car
carrying explosives to a convoy of security forces. This killed 40 personnel.
3. Counter Measures
Upon the incident, the Home Ministry now allows CRPF to carry their troops by air. Also,
the Jammu and Kashmir Government had imposed a ban on private vehicles to facilitate
movement of troops. This means during their transit; no other private vehicles will be
allowed on road. This order was to be rescinded after return of normalcy.
124. First Inter-City Electric Bus to operate between Mumbai and Pune
On February 14, 2020, the first inter-city electric bus was launched. The bus will transit
between Mumbai and Pune twice every day. It was launched by the Union Transport
Minister Nithin Gadkari.
1. Highlights
The bus seating capacity was 43. It is capable of running 300 kilo metres in a single
charge. The GoI is to extend the service to other parts of Maharashtra as well. The
Ministry of Union Transport is working under the target of converting all the buses into
electric vehicles by 2022.
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2. Electric Vehicle Transition
The GoI is now pushing for the Electric Vehicle transition in the country to reduce burden
being created by oil. The CNG (Compressed Natural Gas) transition that happened in
2000s is the best lead to take positive hopes over EV transition
3. CNG Transition
In 1993, 3 gas filling stations were opened in Delhi. In 2001, the Supreme Court ordered
to replace and convert all public buses to CNG. In 2005, there were more than 10,000
CNG buses, 5,000 mini buses and 55,000 CNG three wheelers on road. There was
significant drop in Delhi pollution after the move. Similar results are being expected in
case of EVs. However, more incentives are required for the EVs to spread wide.
125. IISS Study: World Defence spending biggest in 10 years
On February 14, the International Institute of Strategic Studies released its report on
Defence Spending all over the world. The report was titled “Military Balance”. According
to the report, the global spending rose by 4% in 2019. This is the largest growth in 10
years.
1. Highlights
The report also says that the Defence race between China and US has increasing
alarmingly. The Military Modernization Programme in China has led to developing new
hard to detect Hypersonic missiles. This has kindled US to spend alarmingly towards its
Defence Programmes. In 2018-19 the United States has spent 53.4 billion USD towards
its Defence Programmes.
2. Relative Spending
Out of all the countries, China and US has increased the spending by 6.6%. The Europe
spending has increased by 4.2%. This is the first time Europe has seen increased levels
of spending since financial crisis in 2008.
3. NATO members
US is constantly complaining that the NATO members are not contributing enough
towards Defence spending. US had earlier accused Germany for not living up to the 2014
NATO pledge. According to the NATO pledge the member nation should contribute 2% of
its GDP to Defence.
4. International Institute for Strategic Studies

The IISS is a British Research Institute that was established in 1997. The IISS was ranked
the 10th best institute in the world by the Global Go To Think Tank Index. It is also the
second best Defence and National Security think tank globally.
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126. February 15: World Pangolin Day; GoI radio tagged Pangolins first
time to learn their Ecology
Every year the third Saturday of February month is celebrated as World Pangolin Day.
The ninth World Pangolin Day is being celebrated on February 15, 2020. The numbers of
Pangolin is rapidly declining in Asia and Africa. This is mainly because Pangolin scales
are rich in medicinal properties. Recently, China had found that Pangolin scales can be
used to treat Corona Virus infections.
1. Highlights
The World Pangolin Day is marked by several organizations all over the world including
United Nations Environment Programme.
2. Significance
They are hunted for their medicinal benefits and culinary delicacy. In December 2019,
Xinhua news agency (China) reported the seizure of more than 10 tonnes of Pangolin
scales by the Chinese customs in the eastern Chinese city Wenzhou. This on one hand
proves that there is still quite good population of Pangolins in the world and on the other
hand provides the message that they are still endangered.
3. Scales of Pangolins
The pangolins use their scales to protect themselves from big carnivores such as tigers
and lions. They curl into a ball when they are being attacked. These scales are now in
huge demand in China as they are used in traditional medicines.
4. Protection
Pangolins are protected under CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered
Species). In India they are protected under Wild Life (Protection) Act, 1972. They are
listed under Schedule I of the act. The IUCN Red List puts the Indian Pangolin under
Endangered category.
5. India’s Measures
For the first time, the Madhya Pradesh Forest department radio-tagged Indian Pangolin
in order to learn its ecology. It is a joint operation of the forest department and the NGO
Wildlife Conservation Trust.
127. “Global Investor Summit” for the first time in Jammu and Kashmir;
Road Shows to attract investments
The Government of India is making preparation in full swing for the Global Investors
Summit to be held in Jammu and Kashmir in April 2020.
1. Highlights
In order to increase the number of investments roadshows are to be conducted from
February 17, 2020. The roadshows are to be held in Kolkata, Bengaluru, Mumbai,
Chennai, Ahmedabad and Hyderabad. The Union Territory is to send 54 senior officials to
preside over the roadshows. Jammu and Kashmir will also hold International Roadshows.
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2. GoI Measures
After Abrogation of Article 370, GOI has been taking several measure to improve the
infrastructure in Jammu and Kashmir. In the Budget 2020-21, the Union Government
allocated Rs 30,757 crores separately for the development of Jammu and Kashmir. Also,
several foreign delegates are allowed to visit the region. This gives them an opportunity
to assess the situation in Kashmir and its normalcy. In turn such assessments will help to
bring in more foreign investments.
128. Milan 2020: Biggest Multilateral Naval Exercise in the Indian Ocean
Region
Indian Navy is preparing itself for the biggest multilateral naval exercise to be conducted
in the Indian Ocean Region. The Exercise is to be conducted under the theme
1. Highlights
The exercise will include multi-national groupings, simulation of operational scenarios
and tactical maneuvers. Around 42 countries are to participate in the exercise. It
includes Russia and USA as well. India has not invited China to participate in the
exercise. The exercise is to be conducted in Vishakhapatnam in March 2020.
2. History
The Multilateral exercise began in 1995 in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. In 1995, only 4
countries participated. It included Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia and Sri Lanka. It is
biennial and was restricted to friendly nations. However, in its later stages the size of the
exercise began to increase. In 2018, the size grew significantly with around 17 countries
participating in the exercise.
129. Nagpur Oranges Exported to Dubai first Time
On February 13, 2020, the first Consignment of Nagpur Oranges were sent to Dubai from
Navi Mumbai. The oranges were sent in refrigerated containers.
1. Highlights
In the state of Maharashtra, around 40 hectares of land is under cultivation of Nagpur
oranges. The APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development
Authority) selected Nagpur district as a cluster for oranges under Agriculture Export
Policy.
2. Significance
The production of the fruit is increasing in central and western India. The Mrig crop that
matures between February and March has great potential for export. This is because
arrival of these fruits are less in the international market during this period.
3. Global Scenario
The International trade of oranges in the year 2018 was 10,183 million USD. In 2018-19,
India produced 8,781 thousand tonnes of oranges.
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4. Mrig Crop
The monsoon flowering, that is during June is called Mrig. These crops are available for
harvest between November and March.
130. First Integrated Tri-Service Command to be set up in June by the

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS)
The Chief of Defence Staff Bipin Rawat aims to set up an integrated tri-service command
for the first time by June 2020. This command will be headed by an Air Marshal.
1. Highlights
The talks among the CDS, Air Force Chief RKS Bhadauria and Army Chief General Manoj
Mukund Naravane have begun regarding the creation of the command. Along with this,
the CDS officer is also planning to create a joint peninsula command.
2. About CDS
The creation of CDS post was recommended by Group of Ministers that studied the Kargil
Review Committee (1999) report. The most important factor is that the CDS will not
command over any of the services. He will only work towards the coordination of the
services. After resigning or demitting from the post, he is not eligible to hold any of the
government posts.
February 16, 2020
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131. ISRO to launch 10 Earth Imaging Satellites in 2020 including first

Geo Imaging Satellite-1
On February 15, 2020, ISRO published its annual report 2019-20. According to the
report, the Indian Space Research Organization will launch 10 Earth Observation
Satellites in 2020-21. It includes the first Geo Imaging Satellite, GISAT-1.
1. Highlights
The report says that 18 communication satellites, 19 national Earth Observation
satellites and eight navigation satellites are in service. Out of these, 3 of these
communication satellites are dedicated for military communication.
2. Annual Plan
According to the report, ISRO has planned 36 missions in the upcoming year. It includes
six Earth Observation satellites. The organization also has plans to add 8 Earth
Observation satellites in 2021-22.
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132. RBI Syncs Financial Year with the Fiscal Year
On February 15, 2020, the board of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) decided to sync the
Financial year of the bank with the Fiscal Year. The Fiscal Year begins in April and ends
in March and the Financial year is between July and June
1. Highlights
The Central Board of Directors of RBI at the 582nd meeting recommended aligning of
Fiscal and financial years. The alignment would change 8-decade practice of RBI.
2. Jalan Committee
The alignment was recommended by an expert committee led by Bimal Jalan. According
to the committee, the central bank will be able to provide estimates of the surplus
transfers better after the alignment. This will reduce the interim dividend that the RBI
has to pay to the Government. However, the interim dividend will be restricted to
extraordinary circumstances. It will also bring in cohesiveness with the reports and
policy projections made by the RBI.
3. Why the move?

The Centre had been demanding for an interim dividend (between April to August) as its
final balance sheet is prepared in August. This was mainly because RBI had a different
accounting year.
133. PM Modi inaugurates 50 projects worth 1000 crores in Varanasi
On February 16, 2020, PM Modi inaugurated more than 50 projects that are worth 1000
crores in Varanasi. It included 430 beds in a hospital at Banaras Hindu University,
flagging off of Maha Kaal Express, 100 year celebration of Jagadguru Vishwaradhya
Gurukul and unveiling statue of Deendayal Upadhyay.
1. Highlights
PM Modi inaugurated Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay Memorial Centre in Varanasi.
Deendayal Upadhyay was a former leader of Bharatiya Jana Sangh, the forerunner of the
current BJP. In order to honor the leader, PM also inaugurated a 63 feet tall statue that
was made of Pancha Loha
2. What is Pancha Loha?

Panchaloha is an alloy of Copper, Zincm Gold, Iron and Silver. Some times lead or tin is
used instead of Zinc.
3. Maha Kaal Express

The Prime Minister also flagged off the Maha Kaal Express. It is the first overnight private
train that will connect three Jyotirling pilgrim centres. They are Ujjain, Varanasi and
Omkareshwar in Madhya Pradesh.
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February 17, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
134. India and Norway to work towards mitigating marine plastic

littering
On February 16, 2020, at the CMS COP-13, the Convention on the Conservation of
Migratory Species Conference of Parties-13, was marked by India. The Convention is to
be held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat between February 17, 2020 and February 22, 2020.
1. Highlights
On the sidelines of CMS COP-13, India and Norway declared the 2020-30 decade as the
“Decade of rapid action on Climate Change and Environment”. The countries will work
together towards strengthening mutual cooperation on climate and environment
including ocean affairs.
2. Kigali Amendment
In October 2016, the Montreal Protocol was signed by more than 170 countries in order
to protect ozone layer and climate. The Kigali Amendment to the protocol aims to phase
down the Hydrofluorocarbons.
135. BioAsia Summit 2020 to be held in Hyderabad
The Government of Telangana is hosting Bio-Asia Summit 2020 in Hyderabad between

February 17, 2020 and February 19, 2020. The main objective of the summit is to
explore the capabilities of Life Science Companies and their investments.
1. Highlights
The summit will be attended by researchers, investors, conglomerates, start-ups and
health care representatives. They will focus on the needs of the evolving Life Science
industry.
2. Biotechnology in India
India is the third largest biotechnology destination in Asia Pacific. There are more than
523 USFDA (United States Food and Drug Administration) approved Indian owned plants
spread all over the world. This is the second highest in the world.
3. Why is the summit important?

India is to become the most populous country in the world by 2030. The growing burden
of diseases in the country is increasing rapidly. GoI is planning on 200 billion USD
infrastructure in the next decade. The National Biopharma Mission will require strong
workforce.
4. National Biopharma Mission

The National Biopharma mission was launched in 2017 by the Ministry of Science and
Technology with the assistance of World Bank. The mission estimated 250 million USD of
investment in the field.
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136. India marks the beginning of “Super Year of Biodiversity” with CMS
COP 13
The year 2020 has been nick named as “Super Year” by global advocacy groups
including the United Nations. This has been done to highlight 21 Sustainable
Development Goals (SDG) and their targets.
1. Super Year
In Super Year, the SDGs of Climate, Ocean, Gender, life below water and land are to be
implemented. Several major initiatives to achieve these SDGs were taken by the United
Nations. This year all such initiatives are to be given special focus. They are as follows
2. Gender Equality
 The Beijing Programme of Action marks 25th anniversary in 2020. It was framed in 1995 at
the fourth United Nation World Conference on Women.
 The 64th session of the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women is to be held in
March 2020.
3. Climate Action
 The COP 26 is to be held in Glasgow in 2020 to address the gaps that were undermined at
COP 25 and also harmed the reputation of COP 25.
 The first Global Transport on Sustainable Transport is to be held in May 2020
4. Life Below Water

 The Strategic Plan for Bio Diversity 2011-20 comes to an end in 2020. It was adopted in 2010
at the convention on Biological Diversity. In 2019, the Inter-governmental Science Policy
platform published the Global Assessment of State of Biodiversity and Ecosystem services. It
listed 20 Biodiversity Targets. They are now to be taken for implementation in 2020 as the
plan end in 2020.
 The IUCN (International Union for Conservation of Nature) is to hold World Conservation
Congress in Marseille, France in June 2020. It is being organized once on 4 years.
5. 2020-A Decade of Closure (Ocean)

 Apart from a new beginning, the 2020 will also close bio-diversity related agendas. It includes
the Decade for Deserts which marked the fight against desertification. This was marked by
the UN Convention to Combat Desertification.
 The Second UN Ocean Conference is to be held in 2020. The first was held in 2017 in New
York. Since its first conference the community has been working on ocean acidification.
137. The First United Nations Biodiversity Summit CMS COP-13 in India:
3 Migratory Mammals Targeted
India is all set to host the fist Biodiversity Summit of the United Nations. It is to be
inaugurated by PM Modi in Gandhi Nagar, Gujarat on February 17, 2020. The CMS COP-
13, Convention on the Conservation of Migratory Species Conference of Parties-13 is the
only convention on migratory species.
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1. Highlights
The Agenda of the convention includes proposals on infrastructure of migratory
mammals. The migratory mammals to be focused in the summit includes Gobi bear,
Persian Leopard and Urial. The summit will also provide Biodiversity conservation to
Ganges river Dolphins, great Indian Bustard and Asian Elephants.
2. Gobi Bear
The Gobi Bear is a sub species of Brown Bear. It is found in Gobi-desert of Mongolia. As
far 2009, there were only 30 adult Gobi Bears in the desert. The IUCN Red List
categorizes Gobi Bear under Critically Endangered.
3. Persian Leopard
The Persian Leopards are found in Iran, Afghanistan and central Asia. The IUCN Red List
categorizes them as Endangered. As of 2008, only 871 mature Persian Leopards were
recorded. They are threatened by poaching and illegal hunting.
4. Urial
Urials are wild sheep. They are found in western and Central Asia, that is, in Kazakhstan,
Pakistan and India. The IUCN Red List categorizes them as Vulnerable.
138. United Nations Bio Diversity Summit to discuss threats to Migratory

Species from Infrastructural Development
PM Modi is to inaugurate the Conference of Parties to the Convention on Migratory

Species (CMS COP 13) on February 17, 2020 in GandhiNagar, Gujarat. The 13th
conference of Migratory Species is the first meet on bio diversity. It is conducted under
the theme
1. Highlights
The Conference will consider the need for implementation of guidance tools that will
mitigate the impacts of infrastructure on migratory species. So far, the infrastructural
threats to large mammals was governed by the Central Asian Mammals Initiative. The
CMS Guidelines currently deals only with the underwater noises. It does not include
threats related to infrastructural development. Therefore, this conference will focus on
such threats and also aquatic species facing threats due to coastal developments such
as roads, restaurants and hotels. The conference will also discuss Turtle Nesting and the
threats.
2. Significance
The discussion is important because there are more than 25 million kilo metres of new
roads to be constructed by 2050. This will increase by 60% as compared to the roads in
2010. In the next 40 years, 3,35,000 km of railway tracks are to be constructed.
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139. CMS COP 13: Insects Decline to be discussed for the first time
The United Nations Conference of Parties to the Convention on Migratory Species (CMS
COP-13) is to discuss the effects of insects decline on migratory species for the first time.
1. Highlights
According to Convention on Migratory Species, around half of the insect species are
declining. Also, the third phase which is insect extinction is to begin. The IPBES
(Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services) says that at the
current rate, 40% of the world insect species will be extinct in next few decades.
2. Steps taken
The draft resolution has been presented by the European Union for the discussion at
CMS COP 13. This will help to understand insects die off and its effects on migratory
species. The EUROBATS agreement is one such agreement that focuses on insect
decline. However, it focuses on Conservation of Bats Population and indirectly adopts
resolution towards insect conservation to save bats. CMS COP 13 will be the first
convention to focus on insects on a larger scale.
140. Government of Haryana provides Rs 15 lakhs to Olympic

participants and Rs 6 crore to winners
On February 16, 2020, the State Government of Haryana announced that it will provide
Rs 6 crores to gold medal winners at Olympic Games. The cash money prize is only for
players representing Haryana.
1. Highlights
The State Government of Haryana has offered to provide the Olympic players with prize
money. It will provide Rs 15 lakhs to every player participating at the Olympic Games
2020. The Government has also increased the prize money for players participating at
Asian Games and Common Wealth Games.
2. Pension
The Government has also announced pension system for the players. This is an
additional assistance to players apart from the cash money. Also, the government will
provide pension to national award winners such as Rajiv Gandhi Khel Ratna Awards,
Dhyanchand and Arjuna Awards
141. Supreme Court permits Permanent Commissioning of Women

Officers in Defence
On February 17, 2020, the Supreme Court of India upheld the judgement of Delhi High
Court over the issue of commissioning of women officers in Indian Army.
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1. Highlights
The Supreme Court has granted permission to commission women officers in the Indian
Army.
2. Background
The High Court of Delhi in 2010 had instructed the GoI to provide permanent
commissioning of women officers in the Indian Army. The GoI in 2010 had argued that
women are physiologically weak and are not as efficient as men when it comes to
leading a combat unit. This was countered then and now by both Delhi HC and the apex
court.
142. Chief of Navy Admiral Karambir Singh visits Myanmar
The Chief of Indian Navy Admiral Karamvir Singh is to visit Myanmar between February
17, 2020 and February 20, 2020. During his visit, he will hold discussions with his
Myanmar counterpart to enhance bilateral maritime relations between the countries
1. Highlights
The Admiral is to interact with the trainees of the National Defence College in Nay Pyi
Taw and will also visit Training command of Myanmar Navy.
2. Significance
It is important for India to strengthen its bilateral ties with Myanmar especially in the
field of maritime because of strategic location of the country in Indian Ocean. Also,
Myanmar is a member of Indian Ocean Naval Symposium.
3. Sittwe Port
India has constructed Sittwe port, a deep water port in Myanmar in 2016. The port along
with the Kaladan Multi Modal Transit Project is considered as an alternate to access
North East India. So far, the Siliguri corridor is the only way through which the Indian
mainland is connected with the North East.
4. Indian Ocean Naval Symposium

The IONS is a series of biennial meeting among the states of Indian Ocean Region. The
symposium acts as a forum to strengthen maritime security cooperation. It consists of
24 members and they are grouped into 4 sub regions. The South Asian Sub region
includes India, Bangladesh, Maldives, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Seychelles. The West Asian
Sub region includes Oman, Iran, Saudi Arabia and UAE. The East African Sub Region
includes Kenya, Mauritius, France, South Africa, Mozambique, Eretria, Tanzania. The
South East Asian and Australian Sub Region includes Australia, Malaysia, Indonesia,
Timor Leste, Thailand, Singapore, Myanmar and Malaysia.
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143. Teams set up by Health Ministry to monitor Corona Virus in villages
at Nepal Border
The Ministry of Health has constituted teams to examine for Corona Virus in villages that
are bordering Nepal. The spread of Corona Virus is increasing with number of people
infected in China touching 70,000 as of February 17, 2020.
1. Highlights
According to the Ministry of Health, the villages in the states of Uttar Pradesh,
Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Bihar and West Bengal are to be inspected for Corona Virus. The
Ministry has formed 5 separate teams of doctors from the National Centre for Disease
Control.
2. National Centre for Disease Control

National Centre for Disease Control is an institute operating Ministry of Health and
Family Welfare. It was founded in 1963. The origin of the institute is tracked to the
Central Malaria Bureau that was established in 1909 in Kasauli, British India. Today there
are 14 centres operating under NCDC.
3. Global Economy
The IMF (International Monetary Fund) says that the virus will have significance effect
over the global economy. However, as the US-China trade war has subsided, the effects
of the virus will be nullified by the boosts of the improved trade between the two might
economies of the world.
144. Ladakh and J&K to come under Central Administrative Tribunal
On February 17, the Minister of State in the PMO (Prime Minister Office) announced that
the Union Territory of Ladakh and Jammu and Kashmir are to be brought under the
Central Administrative Tribunal (CAT). The announcement was made by the Minister at
the annual Conference of the tribunal.
1. Highlights
The CAT has so far had its jurisdiction only over the central services of Jammu and
Kashmir. Till the GoI sets up a CAT exclusively for J&K, the Chandigarh bench is to serve
the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.
2. What is Central Administrative Tribunal?

The Central Jurisdiction Tribunal was established through 42nd amendment of
Constitution. It works towards adjudicating (judging) disputes that arise in case of
recruitment or service of persons in public services.
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145. Atal Bhujal Yojana: GoI and World Bank signed loan agreement of
450 million USD
On February 17, 2020, the World Bank and the Government of India signed a loan
agreement to support the national programme that aims on strengthening ground water
institutions and also arrest the depletion of ground water resources.
1. Highlights
The project supported by the World Bank called the “National Ground Water
Management Improvement Programme” is to be implemented in the states of Uttar
Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Haryana. The
programme is to cover 78 districts. The districts were selected based on degree of
ground water depletion, degradation and exploitation of groundwater, institutional
readiness in implementing initiatives related to management of groundwater. The states
were selected as they span hard rock aquifers that are present in peninsular India and
alluvial aquifers that are found in Indo-Gangetic Plains.
2. Key Features of the Programme

The Programme is also called Atal Bhujal Yojana. It is a centrally sponsored scheme.
Under the scheme the World Bank will provide Rs 6,000 crores for sustainable
management of groundwater. The scheme is implemented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti.
146. US removed “Developing” Tag for India: What are its implications?
Recently, the United States of America removed the “developing” tag for dozens of
countries. India is one amongst them. These countries are to be classified as developed
economies
1. Highlights
The “Developing” status for a country in the US is associated with US Trade Act, 1974.
The act authorized General System of Preferences (GSP). The intention of the system is
to help the poor countries develop faster. The act was later adopted by the World Trade
Organization (WTO) and was extended to other rich countries as well. In WTO, around
two-thirds of the countries classify themselves as developing.
2. Background
Recently US had withdrawn India from its GSP listings. Under this preference there were
more than 2,000 items that were of worth 6.3 billion USD. This affects India harshly.
Hence, India has been asking the US to re-include the GSP status. Unfortunately, US has
permanently put an end to India’s GSP status by removing it from the list of developing.
February 18, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
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147. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana: 4th National Conference held in
Udaipur
On February 17, 2020, the fourth National Conference of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima
yojana was held in Udaipur, Rajasthan. The Conference was organized by Ministry of
Agriculture and Farmers Welfare.
1. Highlights
The Conference was attended by more than 140 members. It included members from
NABARD (National Bank of Agriculture and Rural Development), RBI (Reserve Bank of
India), insurance companies, etc. Currently, the scheme has three active participants
namely the state government, banking sector and the insurance sector. According to the
experts at the conference, for the scheme to achieve success, active participation of all
the three stakeholders is essential.
2. Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

The scheme was launched in 2016. It replaced the Modified National Agricultural
Insurance Scheme and National Agricultural Insurance Scheme. Under the scheme the
farmers are paid a premium of 2% for Kharif crops and 1.5% for Rabi crops in case of
crop damages. The scheme is in line with One Nation-One Scheme theme.
148. GoI: 5th Meeting of Task Force of Active Pharmaceuticals

Ingredients discuss Corona Virus
On February 18, 2020, the Ministry of Shipping and Chemical Fertilizers held the fifth
meeting of Task Force. The Task Force discussed small, medium and large API units.
1. Highlights
The Ministry discussed on the availability of medicines and drugs to control the impacts
of Corona Virus. The Task Force also discussed and ensured that there shall be no
shortage of drugs, medicines and APIs in India.
2. What is API?
API (Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient) are ingredients that are biologically active. Every
drug is made of two core components. One is the API and the other is the Excipient. The
Excipients are the ingredients that keep the drug stable for long term.
3. Significance
Recently the prices of paracetamol, a common analgesic has jumped by 40% in India.
The prices of other antibiotics have also risen by 70%. This is mainly due to the outbreak
of Corona Virus. Therefore, it is important for the GoI to control these scenarios. The task
forces assist the GoI in these situations to report and control them.
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149. India attends 3rd Global Conference on Road Safety held in
collaboration with WHO, World Bank
On February 17, 2020, the Minister of Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari
represented India at the 3rd global Conference on Road Safety. The Conference aimed at
achieving Global Goals 2030. It was held in Stockholm, Sweden.
1. Highlights
The conference was held in collaboration with WHO and World Bank. The conference
aims at renewing the commitment of the world community towards road safety. The
participated leaders will prepare ways to achieve UN Decade of Action of reducing road
crashes by 2030.
2. The Decade of Action

The United Nations Decade of Action for Road Safety was proclaimed in March 2010 for
the decade 2011-20. The plan included 4 pillars as follows
3. Need
According to the United Nations, more than 1.3 million people die every year due to road
traffic crashes and more than 20 to 50 million get injured.
150. What is Adjusted Gross Revenue?
There was a tussle between the Telecommunication industries and the GoI over the
license fee settlement. The Union Budget waived penalty for those who paid their
interest charges over the disputed tax liabilities before March 2020. The case over the
license fee settlement was pronounced in favour of the GoI recently. Following this,
several companies like Airtel, Vodafone, TATA have recently paid their dues
1. What is AGR?
Adjusted Gross Revenue are mainly collected from two main charges namely usage and
licensing fee. Apart from these fees, it also includes other revenues like profits, revenue
from assets, etc.
2. What was the tussle?

The New Telecom Policy 1999 says that the Telecom operators are required to pay a part
of their AGR (Adjusted Gross Revenue) to the GoI as License Fee. While GoI includes
revenue from all the assets and profits, the Telecoms argue that the charges under AGR
should be pertained only to revenue generated from Telecom services.
151. Economic Census begins at the National Capital Region
The seventh Economic Census was flagged off at the National Capital by the Ministry of
Statistics and Programme Implementation. This is the first time the Census is being
carried out in Digital Platform. The Ministry has tied up with Common Service Centres
Network (CSCN) for the digital implementation of the census
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1. Highlights
Delhi is the 26th state where the Census is being launched. It is already in process in 20
states and 5 Union Territories. At the capital, it will take three months for the census to
complete. More than 1.5 lakh trained volunteers are to visit more than 35 crore
establishments to carry out the census.
2. National Economic Census

The Indian Economic Census is counting the entrepreneurial units involved in
agricultural, non-agricultural or any other economic activity. It provides information
about the number of establishments in the country, number of persons employed, type
of ownership, finance, etc. So far, 6 economic censuses have been held. They were in
1977, 1980, 1990, 1998, 2005, 2013. The seventh Census is the ongoing census that
began in 2019.
152. 14,100 tonnes of the rare metal, Lithium Reserves found in India
The researchers at the India’s Atomic Energy Commission have found Lithium Reserves
of 14,100 tonnes in Mandya. Mandya is 100 km away from Bengaluru, Karnataka. Being
a very rare metal Lithium is mainly used in manufacturing batteries for electric vehicles.
1. Highlights
The reserves found is very little as compared to the world’s leading producers of Lithium.
Of the major producers Chile produces 8.6 million tonnes, Australia produces 2.8 million
tonnes and 1.7 million tonnes in Argentina.
2. India’s Scenario
Currently, India imports 1.2 billion USD worth lithium batteries (2019). This has
increased significantly. In 2017, India imported 384 million USD worth lithium batteries.
3. Issues
Though India has very little reserves of Lithium and are spread in different places, they
can be of significant use. But these reserves are not yet mapped. These reserves can be
of good help to promote the clean-energy wave in India. GoI is on the path of
implementing 1.4 billion USD plan to make India a manufacturing hub of electric
vehicles.
153. Kala Kumbh: Exhibition to promote GI crafts and Heritage of India

held in New Delhi
On February 18, 2020, the Ministry of Textiles organized “Kala Kumbh”. It is an

exhibition to promote GI (Geographical Indication) crafts and heritage of India. These
exhibitions are sponsored by the Export Promotion Council for Handicrafts.
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1. Highlights
The exhibition has been planned in several cities such as Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chennai
and Kolkata. The exhibition is being held exclusively for GI tag handicrafts. The GI tag is
used on handicrafts that correspond to specific geographical location. As of August 2019,
around 178 handicrafts have been provided with GI tag all over India.
2. Export Promotion Council

The Export Promotion Council are authorities that assist in promoting and supporting
their products in international market. They are non-profit groups. Every council is
responsible for a particular group of products.
154. India and Russia Defence Deals to cross 16 billion USD after
DefExpo 2020
India and Russia have signed 14 MoUs during the DefExpo 2020. It included land, air,
naval and other hi-tech civilian products. With the agreements signed the Defence trade
between the countries is to cross 16 billion USD.
1. Highlights
The trade of 16 billion USD between the countries includes S400 missiles, Kamov
helicopters and Kalashnikov rifles. During the DefExpo 2020, India’s DRDO (Defence
Research Development Organization) signed deals with the Russia’s state run Rosoboron
Export on advanced pyrotechnic ignition systems.
2. US Role
Despite the pressure from the US through CAATSA (Countering America’s Adversaries
Through Sanctions), India has proceeded to establish strong defence deals with Russia.
In fact, Russia was the largest foreign contributor at DefExpo 2020.
February 19, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
155. Indian Bird Species have declined by 80% says State of India’s Birds
Report at CMS COP 13
On February 18, 2020, the State of India’s Birds Report was released at the CMS COP 13.
It assessed the status of more than 867 birds. The report says that more than 80% of
Indian bird species have declined in the last 5 years. More than 15,000 bird watchers
participated in the survey.
1. Highlights
According to the report, the highest decline of birds in India was found in vultures,
eagles, warblers and migrating shore birds. The report says that habitat loss and hunting
are the two main reasons behind decline in bird population. The report is first of its kind.
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2. Stability
The stability in count was found only with house sparrows. Their population have gone
up in rural areas. The Indian peafowl was found in abundance according to the report.
Around 48% of bird species in the country were stable.
3. Assessment
The report was prepared based on three assessments namely long-term trend, measure
of distribution range and current annual trend.
3.1. Long Term Assessment

Out of the 261 species that were assessed on long term basis, 52% of them declined
since 2000. Only 43% showed a long-term trend and were stable. Around 22% of them
declined strongly.
3.2. Current annual Trend

The current annual trend was assessed over 146 species. Under this category, 80% of
the birds declined and 50% declined strongly. Only 6% were stable and 14% were
increasing in numbers.
4. Categories of Concern
The report with the help of IUCN Red List and the three indices classified the birds into
three categories. Around 442 of the birds were put under Low Concern Category, 319 in
Modern Concern Category and 101 in high concern category.
5. Who prepared the report?

The report was prepared by 10 research and conservation organizations. It included
Wildlife Institute of India, Natural History and Wetlands International South Asia, World
Wide Fund for Nature India, Bombay Natural History Society and Ashoka Trust for
Research in Ecology and Environment.
156. February 19: Soil Health Card Day
In order to commemorate the launch of Soil Health Card Scheme, the GoI is marking Soil
Health Card Day on February 19, 2020. The Soil Health Card Scheme was launched by
PM Modi on February 19, 2015.
1. Objectives
The Scheme was launched in 2015 to evaluate soil fertility. It was introduced to issue soil
health cards every two years. The aim of the scheme is to promote soil test in order to
promote nutrient management.
2. Need
The deterioration of physical, chemical and biological health of the soil is considered as
one of the main reasons for decline in agricultural productivity in the country. The soils
are currently holding negative nutrient balance. This is to increase in the future and will
decline the fertilizer response of the crop. Therefore, it is essential to improve the soil
health.
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3. Soil Health-Other Measures
3.1. Soil Health Management

The Soil Health Management under taken by GoI under the National Mission for
Sustainable Agriculture strengthens soil testing laboratories, establishes bio-fertilizers
and compost units, demonstrations and trainings on balanced use of fertilizers.
3.2. Nutrient Based Subsidy

The Nutrient based Subsidy scheme promoted fortified and customized fertilizers. Under
the scheme so far 21 fertilizers have been included. The scheme aims at balanced use of
fertilizers in order to maintain soil health.
3.3. Development of Model Village

In the year 2019-20, the Development of Model Village project was taken up. Under the
scheme, the soil samples were collected from individual farmers rather than collecting
from a cluster.
4. Success of Soil Health Card

In 2017, the National Productivity Council said that the Soil Health Card Scheme
promoted sustainable farming. This led to decrease in use of fertilizer application by 8 to
10%. Also, the overall yield of crops increased by 5%. This major improvement was
mainly due to application of fertilizers based on recommendations of soil health cards.
5. 5 years of Soil Health Card

Recently the Soil Health Card Scheme completed 5 years of success. Being launched at
Suratgarh, Rajasthan to improve health of the soil, the card provides information about
the nutrient status of the soil to the farmers.
157. Task Force Meet: India and Norway to strengthen their BLUE
ECONOMY PARTNERSHIP
In January 2019, India and Norway jointly inaugurated a Task Force of Blue Economy for
Sustainable Development. The third meet of the task force was held on February 18,
2020.
1. Highlights
India and Norway have been strengthening their ties making Indo-Norwegian Ocean
Cooperation as a key pillar in their bilateral relationship. The task force aims at
mobilizing stakeholders of India and Norway at the highest level to ensure progress
across ministries and agencies.
2. Significance
India being the largest democracy plays a major role in sustainable development both
globally and regionally. Also, 15% of Indian population residing in Norway are in the
coastal region. Above all, 70% of the Norwegian Economy depends on maritime industry
of the country.
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3. India Norway Business Summit
The Summit was held in New Delhi in January 2019 during the visit of Norwegian PM to
India. Around 15 MoUs were signed at the summit. It includes sustainable sea food
production, smart grids, energy markets, green shipping, digital solutions, etc. Green
shipping is use of LNG.
158. National Institutes renamed after late Union Ministers Sushma,

Arun Jaitley and Manohar Parrikar
The Government of India has been renaming the national institutes after late ministers.
The leaders passed away in 2019 due to health issues. They were Manohar Parrikar,
Arun Jaitley and Sushma Swaraj.
1. Objective of renaming
The renaming is being done in order to align the institutes on the lines of the vision of
the late leaders.
2. Manohar Parrikar
Parrikar served as the Minister of Defence between 2014 and 2017. The Institute of
Defence and Analyses (IDSA) has been renamed as Manohar Parrikar Institute of
Defence Studies. His biggest contribution was the One Rank One Pension scheme for the
armed forces.
2.1. IDSA
The IDSA was established in 1965. It was established for policy related studies in all
aspects of defence and security.
3. Sushma Swaraj
Sushma Swaraj served as the Minister of External Affairs. The Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra
in New Delhi was renamed as Sushma Swaraj Bhawan and also the Foreign Institute in
New Delhi was renamed as Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Services.
4. Arun Jaitley
Arun Jaitley served as the finance minister. The National Institute of Financial
Management was renamed as Arun Jaitley National Institute of Financial Management.
Also, in September 2019, the Delhi Ferozeshah Kotla Cricket ground was renamed as
Arun Jaitley Stadium.
159. Foundation Stone for Lighthouse at Dhanushkodi laid
On February 18, 2020, foundation stone for a 50-metre high foundation stone laid at
Dhanushkodi in Rameswaram. This is the fifth lighthouse in the region
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1. Highlights
The light house is to be built at a cost of Rs 8 crore rupees. The lighthouse is to be
located opposite to the old church that was destroyed in a cyclone in 1964. It will
facilitate navigation to 33 to 37 km from the sea shore.
2. Significance
The lighthouse will help to guide fishermen and will also act as tourist attraction. The
Light house is also important for the naval commands. There are four Naval Commands
namely Western Naval Command, Eastern Naval Command, Southern Naval Command
and Andaman and Nicobar Naval Command.
3. Dhanushkodi
Dhanushkodi is an abandoned town at the southern tip of India. The town was
completely destroyed by the Rameswaram Cyclone in 1964. The town is separated from
the mainland by Palk Strait.
160. Pakistan Test Fires 600 km range Ra’ad II missile successfully
On February 19, 2020, Pakistan test fired 600 km range Ra’ad II missile successfully on
land and at sea. The missile range has been upgraded from 550km in 2017 to 600km. It
is important for India to closely monitor such advances as New Delhi is roughly 430km
from Lahore.
1. Highlights
The first Ra’ad II missile was unveiled in an annual parade in Pakistan in 2017. Ra’ad I
had a range of 35km. The changes have been made significantly in the tail part of the
missile. Ra’ad I had twin tail and was bigger in size. The recently test fired Ra’ad II had
“X” configuration.
2. Nirbhay Cruise Missile

It is an all-weather missile that was designed and developed in India by DRDO (Defence
Research Development Organization). So far, India has completed six developmental
trials of the missile. The next test is to happen in April 2020.
161. IISc ranked 16th in Times Higher Education Ranking
On February 18, 2020, the Times Higher Education Ranking was released in London. The
ranking was titled “The Emerging Economies University Ranking 2020”.
1. Highlights
The Indian Institute of Science was ranked 16th among the top 100 Universities of
emerging Economies. The ranking included 533 Universities from 47 countries all over
the world. Out of these, 56 Indian Universities appeared in the ranking.
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2. Institute of Eminence
The Scheme was launched by GoI in 2017. One of the participating institutes of the
scheme Amrita Vishwa Vidyapeetham entered the top 100 for the first time. It had
moved 51 places from its ranking of 141 in 2019.
3. Prestigious Institutes
The IIT Kharagpur moved up 23 places to 32nd rank, IIT Delhi improved by 28 places and
was at 38th rank and IIT Madras was at 63rd rank climbing 12 places.
162. India shifts towards clean Diesel and Petrol from April 1
From April 1, 2020, India will shift to Euro-VI emission compliant from Euro-IV grades that
is being followed now. This means that India will shift towards more clean form of fuel.
1. Highlights
As India shifts to Euro VI grades, it will join select league of nations using pure and clean
fuel. These fuels contain just 10 parts per million of Sulphur. The Sulphur emissions are
the main reasons that choke pollution in major cities.
2. History
India adopted Euro II or equivalent BS III fuel that contains 350 parts per million of
Sulphur in 2010. Later, it took seven years for India to adopt to BS IV that contains 50
ppm of Sulphur. However, it took only three years to shift to BS VI standard.
163. Delhi Airport: The First Single-use Plastic-free airport
The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has become the first airport in India to
become free of single-use plastics. The airport committed itself to become single-use
plastics free on the World Environment Day in 2018.
1. Highlights
DIAL has used eco-friendly alternatives to reduce the plastic use. The Plastic items that
are exempted at the airport included sealed PET bottles, security tamper-evident bags,
pre-packaged materials from manufacturers and compostable plastic bags.
2. Significance
The step is being adopted to keep up India’s target of abolishing use of single-use
plastics by 2022. This targets six main types of plastics that are plastic cups, bags, small
bottles, plates, pouches and straws. The Swachh Bharat Mission is deployed in achieving
the target.
3. Need
India produces 26,000 tonnes of plastic trash every day. Much of this trash is dumped in
landfills, streets or spilled in waterways. Around 40% of the plastic used in the world is
single-use plastic. Therefore, it is highly imperative to take serious actions to stop their
usage.
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164. After English and Mandarin, Hindi-the third most spoken language
in the world
With 615 million speakers all over the world, Hindi is the third most spoken language in
the world. English is at the top with 1,132 million speakers followed by Mandarin with
1,117 million speakers.
1. Highlights
On February 18, 2020, the Ethnologue published its yearly database on living languages
of the world. It covered more than 7,111 living languages. It also published data on
languages that were gone out of usage in the recent history and that included around
348 languages.
2. Ethnologue
The Ethnologue is an annual publication that provides statistics of the living languages of
the world. It is published by SIL International since 1951. The publication released this
year in 2020 is its 22nd release.
165. Assisted Reproductive Technology Bill approved by Union Cabinet
On February 18, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the Assisted Reproductive
Technology (Regulation) bill. The bill proposes to establish a national registry.
1. Highlights
The bill aims at setting up of a national board and as state board to implement a legal
framework. The bill also proposes to establish a central data base of banks and clinics all
over the country. It will help in identifying people that are involved in illegal embryo sale
and trafficking.
2. Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART)

The ART is used to treat infertility. The technology works to remove an egg from a
woman’s body and fertilize it with a man’s sperm to make an embryo.
166. 22nd Law Commission of India approved by the Union Cabinet
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the 22nd Law Commission of India.
The commission has been approved for a period of three years.
1. Highlights
The 22nd Law Commission will consist of a full time Chairperson. It has four full time
members. Also, secretaries from Department of Legal Affairs and Legislative
department.
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2. Law Commission of India
It is a non-statutory body that is constituted by the GoI from time to time. It was
constituted in 1955 for the first time. Since then it has been reconstituted for every 3
years. So far, the Law Commission of India has submitted 277 reports.
3. Benefits
The Law Commission will make recommendations based on the aspects of laws
entrusted upon it. It will undertake research works and suggest reforms that are
essential to enact new legislations.
4. Functions
The functions and objectives of the Law Commission are as follows
February 20, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
167. China moves against Pakistan in FATF, Turkey now the only
supporter
China has joined India and United States in putting Pakistan on Grey list of the FATF
(Financial Action Task Force). Both China and Saudi Arabia have joined US, India and
other European countries sending stern messages to Pakistan against its actions of
terror funding money laundering
1. Highlights
A Plenary session of the FATF is to be held in June 2020. China, Saudi Arabia and Turkey
were the three countries that supported Pakistan against FATF move in putting Pakistan
under Grey List. Now Turkey and Malaysia are the only supporters. 12 out of 39 votes
are required to move out of FATF list which Pakistan will not be able to.
2. FATF Grey List and Black List

The FATF is a Paris based organization that combats terrorism funding and money
laundering.
2.1. Grey List

The countries that are not safe and are supporting money laundering and terror funding
are included in the list.
2.2. Black List

The countries that is uncooperative tax havens for terror funding. They are also called
Non-Cooperative Countries or Territories (NCCTs).
3. Countries currently in Black List and Grey List

The lists now have been renamed to “Call for Action” and “Monitored Jurisdiction”. The
Call for Action countries or the Black List Countries include Iran and North Korea.
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168. GoI to launch “TILHAN Mission” to make India Self Reliant in oil
seed Production
On February 19, 2020, the Agricultural Minister Narendra Singh Tomar announced that
Government of India is to launch “TILHAN MISSION” to boost the oil seed production. The
announcement was made at an occasion of Soil Health Card Day. Soil Health Card Day
was celebrated all over India on February 19, 2020.
1. Highlights
Government of India is to increase oil seed production in order to make the country self-
reliant in oil seed production.
2. Current Oil Seed Scenario in India

India is the fourth largest vegetable oil economy in the world after USA, China and Brazil.
Today, the oil seeds account for 13% of cropped area in the country.
3. India-Malaysia
Recently, there has been major rifts between India and Malaysia over Palm oil. Malaysia
at the United Nations General Assembly meet placed open accusations on India for
abrogating Article 370 and its other steps towards development of Kashmir. Malaysian
PM accused India of invading and occupying Kashmir. According to India, Kashmir issue
is completely internal and is between India and Pakistan to settle upon.
4. Inference
India having cut its imports from Malaysia, is now on the plan of increasing its domestic
oil seed production.
169. Cabinet approves Phase II of Swachh Bharat Mission
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved on implementing the phase II of
Swachh Bharat Mission. The phase II of the mission will focus on Open Defecation Free
Plus.
1. Highlights
The budget allocated for phase II of the mission is Rs 52,497 crores. The mission in this
phase is to converge with Jal Jeevan Mission and MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National
Rural Employment Act).
2. Jal Jeevan Mission

The Jal Jeevan Mission was launched in August 2019. The mission aims to provide tap
water to all the households by 2024. It also focuses on desilting minor irrigation tanks
and using grey water for agriculture.
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3. Financial Assistance
An incentive of Rs 12,000 is to be provided for the construction of individual household
toilet. An additional financial assistance of Rs 2 lakhs to 3 lakhs is to be provided for
Gram Panchayats to construct Community managed Sanitary Complexes.
170. Manipur- the major role player of Act East Policy
India has been focusing on Act East Policy lately with a strong motive of developing the
North East. Out of all the North Eastern States, Manipur has evolved the major supporter
of Act East Policy.
1. Measures
The GoI and the Manipur Government have taken several measures together in order to
make the Act East Policy a big success. The integrated Check Post was inaugurated at
Moreh, the Indo-Myanmar border. The Check post handles 99% of trade between Indian
and Myanmar. The trade between the countries increased by 10% in a decade.
2. Act East Policy

The Act East Policy was launched as the Look East Policy in 1991. Through the North
East States India plans to increase its trade connectivity with ASEAN countries. The
Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit project, India-Myanmar-Thailand trilateral highway are some
of the projects that has taken trade between the countries to next level.
171. Cabinet approves to set up a 12-member Technology Group
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved to set a technology group. The 12-
member group will provide scientific advice on mapping of technologies,
commercialization of dual use technologies and develop a road map on selected key
technologies.
1. Functions of the group

The group will help the GoI in achieving the following
2. Why was the group constituted?

The Group has been constituted as the GoI faced the following challenges
172. Union Cabinet approves Revamping of PM Fasal Bima Yojana and

RWBCIS schemes to address challenges
On February 19, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved revamping of challenges in insurance
schemes such as Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) and Restructured Weather
Based Crop Insurance Scheme (RWBCIS).
1. Highlights
The following changes are to be undertaken in the crop insurance schemes
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2. Benefits
With these steps, farmers will be able to cover and manage risks of agriculture
production. It will also enable farmers of North Eastern Region to manage agricultural
risk in a better way. The changes are to begin from the Kharif Season of 2020.
173. NITI Aayog organizes North East Sustainable Development Goal

Conclave 2020 in Assam
NITI Aayog is to organize North East Sustainable Development Goal Conclave 2020 in
Assam between February 24, 2020 and February 26, 2020. The Conclave is to be held in
the state capital Guwahati. Chief Ministers of all the north eastern states namely
Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Nagaland, Manipur, Meghalaya, Assam, Tripura and Sikkim
are to participate in the conclave.
1. Highlights
The conclave is to focus on SDG localization in the north eastern region. It includes
climate adaptive agriculture, sustainable livelihoods, education, health and nutrition,
skill development, connectivity, entrepreneurship, infrastructure development. Every
session is to chaired by respective field specialist.
2. Significance
NITI Aayog is currently monitoring SDGs at national and sub national levels. It is
important to make progress in the North East Regions at higher level as compared to the
rest of the nation. This is the mainly because of the economy of these states that is still
backward as compared to the rest of the country. Therefore, it is important to implement
SDG localization in the North Eastern States to achieve Agenda 2030.
174. February 20: Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh celebrate their

Statehood Day
On February 20, the states of Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram are celebrating their
statehood day. Statehood day marks the day of formation of the states. Arunachal
Pradesh became a state on 20th February 1987. And Mizoram that was a part of Assam
was formed on 20th February 1987.
1. Mizoram
Mizoram became a state with the implementation of North-Eastern Reorganization Act,
1972. Mizoram being a mountainous region was a district of Assam till 1972. It was the
23rd state to be formed in India.
2. Arunachal Pradesh
In 1972, the state was called the North-East Frontier Agency. Later in 1975, an elected
Legislative Assembly was constituted. After the Reorganization act, 1972, Arunachal
Pradesh remained as a Union Territory. It became a state in 1987.
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175. GoI sets up Consumer Protection Authority to implement Consumer
Protection Act
The Government of India is to set up a Consumer Protection Authority in order to

implement the Consumer Protection Act. The authority is to begin working from April
2020.
1. Highlights
The Consumer Protection Bill, 2019 was approved the Parliament in 2019 replacing
Consumer Protection Act, 1986. It aims to focus on rapid settlement of consumer
disputes, strict penalties for wrong doings that include misleading ads by firms and
adulteration.
2. Consumer Protection act, 2019

The act apart from working towards effective administration in settling consumer
disputed, also brings E-Commerce under Jurisdiction. It also holds celebrities accountable
for promoting wrong products. Under the act, the celebrities can be fined up to Rs 10
lakhs for their misleading acts.
176. India ranks 77 on sustainability index and 131 on Flourishing Index
On February 20, 2020, WHO, Lancet and UNICEF together released a report titled “A
Future for the World’s Children”. According to the report, a new Global index has been
included in comparing performance of child nutrition, education and sustainability.
1. Highlights
The report says that India has improved in health and sanitation. However, it has to
increase its spending on Health. Around 180 countries were compared in the report. The
parameters of comparison included child survival, child wellbeing, health and education,
sustainability, child nutrition.
2. Key Findings of the report

Because of stunting and poverty, around 250 million children in low- and middle-income
countries are at risk of not reaching their developmental potential.
3. Best and Least Performers

The children in countries such as Republic of Korea and Netherlands have best chances
of survival. On the other hand, Chad, Niger, Somalia and Mali were the least performers
and face very bad odds.
4. Current Scenario
The report has named USA, Saudi Arabia and Australia as the top 10 highest emitters.
Norway, Netherlands and Republic of Korea emit 210% more than the target set by them
towards the per capita target of 2030.
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5. Major Issues
According to the report, the poorest countries have to do more to support their children
health and ability. They have to spend lots towards their children health in order to
provide them healthy lives. This disproportionately is affected by the carbon emissions
from rich countries. The issue overall is threatening lives of all children.
177. Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) tops in Nature

Ranking Index-2020
The CSIR of Delhi topped the National Ranking Index 2020 that ranks the scientific
research institutes. CSIR was followed by IISc Bangalore.
1. Highlights
The Rankings were provided based on the numbers of research output. It is indicated by
total citations in numbers. It also includes shares, that is the sharing percentage of an
article.
2. Share percentage and scores

The first rank holder CSIR had a share percentage of 87.74 and 142 counts. Followed by
CSIR, IISC Bangalore had a share percentage of 83.61 and 211 count. The third rank was
won by the Tata Institute of Fundamental Research (TIFR) with share percentage of
62.18 and 232 count.
3. Top Institutes
The other top institutes included Homi Bhabha National Institute, IIT Bombay, IIT Madras,
Indian Association of Cultivation of Science, IIT Guwahati.
4. GoI Requirements
The GoI is urging scientists to work on topics such as artificial intelligence, 5G,
malnutrition, water conservation, prosperity of farmers, etc. The country is in need of
these experts.
178. World Wide Education for the Future Index: India jumps to rank 35
The Economic Intelligence Unit recently published the Worldwide Education for the
Future Index for the year 2019. India has jumped by five ranks and currently holds rank
35.
1. Highlights
The ranking is provided based on the ability of a country to equip their students in skill-
based education. India ranked 35th with an overall score of 53. The scores were
provided based on the performance of the countries in three countries namely teaching,
policy environment and teaching environment. In 2018, India ranked 40th with an overall
score of 41.2.
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2. Global Rankings
Among the largest economies the countries that fell back in their rankings include US,
UK, Russia and France. On other hand, India, China and Indonesia performer better as
compared to the previous year.
179. Animal Culture linked to its Conservation at CMS COP 13 for the
first time
The Convention on the Conservation on Migratory birds Conference of Parties (CMS COP
13) is being held in Gandhinagar. Proposals were presented to conserve Sperm Whales
and Chimpanzees based on their culture. This is the first time such proposal is being
made in the world.
1. Highlights
It was presented at the conference that some of the animals such as elephants, dolphins
and whales acquire some of their knowledge through social learning. They learn most of
their behaviors from adults, especially the migrating routes.
2. Findings
The report presented at the conference says that when a species gets vanished from an
area, its critical knowledge will also be lost. For instance, as a result of commercial
whaling in the coast of New Zealand, the whales lost their knowledge of migration route
and stopped calving in the region. This was during 1800. Recently, in 2000, after 200
years, they have started calving in the region again.
February 21, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
180. February 21: International Mother Language Day
On February 21, UNESCO is celebrating International Mother Language Day. It is

important to celebrate the day as globalization process has put languages under threat
and they are disappearing altogether. When languages fade away, the cultural diversity
of the world fades away as well.
1. Highlights
Every year, UNESCO has been celebrating International Mother Language Day since
2000. The main purpose of celebrating the day is to promote multilingualism and
cultural diversity. This year the International Mother Language Day is celebrated under
the theme
2. Need
Today, more than 6,000 languages are spoken in the world according to UNESCO.
However, out of these 43% are estimated to be endangered.
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3. United Nations
In 2007, the United Nations called upon its members to promote, preserve and protect
their languages. It also proclaimed the year 2008 as the “International Year of
Languages”.
4. Matribhasha Diwas
In India, the day is celebrated under the theme
181. Asian Elephant, Great Indian Bustard and Bengal Florican classified
as “Endangered Migratory Species” at CMS COP13
On February 20, 2020, Asian Elephant, Indian Bustard and Bengal Florican were declared
as “Endangered Migratory Species” at the CMS COP 13. The proposal was accepted by
130 countries.
1. Asian Elephant
India declared Indian Elephant as “National Heritage Animal”. This provides highest
degree of legal protection to the animal under Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Act,
1972. The Asian elephants are called Indian Elephants in the country. The threats to the
Indian Elephants include habitat loss, human elephant conflict, habitat fragmentation,
illegal trade and poaching.
2. Bengal Florican
The population of the species has declined greatly due to habitat loss. The Bengal
Florican does not breed outside the protected areas today. It is listed as the critically
endangered species under the IUCN list and is of the topmost conservation priority.
3. Great Indian Bustard

The Great Indian Bustard is also listed under critically endangered species in IUCN Red
List. In order to protect the species, the Indian Government has declared their habitats
as conservation reserves. According to the Wildlife Institute of India, there are only 150
Great Indian Bustards left in the country.
182. One Million Dollar Worth Prizes created by Sweden for sustainable
Food Solutions
Sweden has created 1 million USD worth prizes to feed billion of people. The prize is
named as the “Food Planet Prize”. The main aim of the step is to address the climate
change threats towards food supply all over the world.
1. Highlights
The prize is to be awarded annually. Sweden is to offer two Food Planet prizes. They are
“an existing scalable solution for sustainable foods” and the other includes “innovative
initiatives to transform global food sector”.
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2. Need
Today, the world population is 7.8 billion and is expected to grow by 10 billion by 2050.
In order to feed such a huge population, it is essential to transform the eating habits,
reduce food waste and also improve food production.
183. President’s Secretary Sanjay Kothari named the next CVC by PM led
panel
The appointment of the CVC (Chief Vigilance Commissioner) was criticized throughout
India as the new appointee was a part of the Search Committee. After the wide
criticization, President Secretary Sanjay Kothari has now been recommended by the PM
led panel.
1. Highlights
The Central Vigilance Commission is the premier Government Agency that prevents
corruption. It was established in 1964 as recommended by the Santhanam Committee. It
was neither a statutory body nor a constitutional body. In 2003, the Parliament enacted
a law conferring statutory status to the CVC.
2. Functions of CVC
The CVC makes investigation over references made by the Central Government. The
Central Government shall make recommendations against an employee under
Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. It has powers to give directions to the CBI under
Delhi Special Police Establishment act.
184. Revision of interest subvention under Diary Processing and

Infrastructure Development Fund from 2% to 2.5%
The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs recently approved its revision of interest
subvention rates from 2% to 2.5% per annum. This is being done under Diary Processing
and Infrastructure Development Fund (DIDF).
1. Highlights
Under the DIDF, GoI will now provide interest subvention up to 2.5% to NABARD till
2030. This shall enable NABARD in devising its own strategy of borrowing. In turn, it will
be able to provide low cost of funds to milk unions.
2. Impacts
There are more than 95 lakh milk producers that will be benefitted with this move. It will
help in establishment of 28,000 milk coolers and create 210 metric tonnes of milk drying
capacity.
3. Implementation
The major activities that are covered under the fund includes chilling infrastructure,
electronic adulteration testing kit, modernization of milk processing facilities and project
management.
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4. DIDF scheme
The DIDF Scheme was announced in Union Budget 2017-18 by the Ministry of Finance.
Under the scheme DIDF considerable amount is contributed by NABARD to the National
Diary Development Board and National Cooperative Development Corporation.
185. RBI launches 5-year Financial Inclusion Strategy
The Reserve Bank of India has launched National Strategy for Financial Inclusion (2019-
24). The main motive of the strategy is to provide access to financial services in an
affordable manner.
1. Highlights
The Strategy has been launched after thorough consultation with SEBI (Securities
Exchange Board of India), PFRDA (Pension fund Regulatory and Development Authority
of India) and also Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India (IRDAI). The
strategy was launched based on the recommendations of the Financial Inclusion
Advisory Committee that worked in consultation with the above agencies.
2. Key Recommendations
The following are the recommendations included in the strategy
186. Fourth Anniversary of Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission

celebrated
The Fourth Anniversary of Shyama Mukherji Rurban Mission is being celebrated all over
India on February 21, 2020. It was launched on February 21, 2016. The mission aims at
stimulating local economic development and create well planned Rurban Regions
1. Highlights
The mission aims to develop 300 Rurban clusters. The Niti Aayog has proposed that
these clusters are to be extended to 1000 in 3 years.
2. The Mission
The mission aims to preserve the essence of rural community life. It was announced in
the Union Budget 2014-15. The Budget allocated Rs 5,142 crores of rupees for the
scheme. As 69% of rural population lives in the rural areas, the mission aims on the
availability of amenities to the rural population.
3. The Plan
The Mission plans to develop Rurban clusters contiguously with the Gram Panchayats
with a population of 25,000 to 50,000 in plains and 5,000 to 15,000 in desert and hilly
areas.
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187. Maharashtra Government orders to destroy “Thai Mangur” fish
breeding centres
On February 21, 2020, the Maharashtra Government ordered to destroy the Thai Mangur
fish breeding centres. This is mainly because the fish is cultivated in unhygienic
conditions.
1. Highlights
The fish whose breeding is to be stopped in Maharashtra is commonly called Thai
Mangur or foreign Mangur or African Mangur. As they are being cultivated in unhygienic
conditions and have enough potential to make people sick, their breeding centres are
being destroyed.
2. Thai Mangur
The Mangur Fish was banned in India as the fish poses threats to other fishes in an
ecosystem. A study in Mumbai says hat the Mangur fish is responsible for 70% decline in
native fish species of the country
3. Why so Popular?
In spite of several drawbacks, cultivation of Mangur and their sales is popular for its
surviving capabilities. The fish grows 3 feet to 5 feet. They can survive even in mud
waters between rains. Other factors such as omnivorous diet, burrowing capabilities,
ability to survive on land and ability to hide in vegetation make the species easy and
economical for farming.
188. IIT to set up Data Science Centre at Kanjikode campus
The Indian Institute of Technology, Palakkad is to set uo a research centre in data

science. The centre being set up at Kanjikode aims at providing a platform of research
for artificial intelligence and Data Science
1. Highlights
The centre has been named as the Centre for Research and Education in Data Science.
The Centre will collaborate with the Government, industries and other academic
institutes
2. Data Science
It is the field that uses scientific algorithms, processes and methods to extract
knowledge from unstructured and structured data.
3. What is Data Localization?

It refers to the rules, laws and regulations that speaks on the collection of data on a
Nation’s citizens. It also includes processing and storing such data.
4. Indian Laws on Data Localisation

Currently in India the only mandate on Data Localization is that provided by Reserve
Bank of India, that too only for Payment systems. However, there are several draft bills
and reports on Data Localization.
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189. First Khelo India University Games to be held in Bhuwaneshwar
The first Khelo India University Games is to be held in Bhuwaneshwar, Odisha. The game
is to be launched by PM Modi through video conferencing.
1. Highlights
More than 3400 athletes in 17 disciplines and from 159 Universities are to participate in
the game. This is the first of its kind. On the whole, 17 sports are to be conducted. It
includes athletics, archery, fencing, boxing, hudo, weight lifting, swimming, badminton,
wrestling, basketball, hockey, football, tennis, table tennis, rugby, volley ball, Kabaddi.
2. Khelo India
Khelo India is a National Programme for Development of Sports. The main objective of
the initiative is to inculcate sports culture at Grass-root level. While, the Khelo India
University Games are being launched for the first time in the country, Khelo India School
games were launched in 2018 and has been conducted annually in the month of
January-February since then.
190. National Organic Food Festival inaugurated in New Delhi
Ministry of Food Processing and Ministry of Women and Child Development jointly
inaugurated the National Organic Food Festival in New Delhi. The festival aimed at
strengthening organic food produce in the country. It also aimed at encouraging women
entrepreneurs in manufacturing organic produce.
1. Highlights
More than 180 women entrepreneurs and self-help groups exhibited their organic
products at the festival. It was announced at the festival that the organic sector is
growing at a speed of 17% per year.
2. Jaivik Kheti
It is a National Project on Organic Farming. Under the scheme, the GoI aims to
strengthen organic farming. It was launched in 2004. It was introduced in 10th five-year
plan. Though the scheme initially aimed on usage of Bio-Fertilizers, later it focused on
producing organic foods.
February 24, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
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191. International Judicial Conference held in New Delhi
The International Judicial Conference was held in New Delhi recently. The Conference
was addressed by PM Modi. The following theme was introduced at the conference
1. Highlights
The Conference discussed the changes being introduced by the Government of India to
bring Gender Equality in recruiting women in military services, selection process of
fighter pilots. It also discussed on freedom of women to work in mines at night.
2. The “Just-World” Hypothesis

The “Just World” fallacy is associated with the actions of bringing fair actions towards
education, health, gender equality and other social issues.
192. February 24: PM-Kisan Scheme completes one year
On February 24, 2020, the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana completed one
year of its implementation. The scheme was launched to increase the income of farmers.
It aims to help farmers by providing them income support of Rs 6,000 per year.
1. Highlights
The Scheme initially provided income support to small and marginal farmers that hold
land up to 2 hectares. Later, it was extended to all farmers irrespective of the size of
their land holdings. Around 14 crore farmers were to covered under the scheme.
2. PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana

In order to gain the benefits from the scheme, the farmers have to produce citizenship
certificate, Aadhaar card, land holding papers and bank account details. The amount are
to be deposited directly in to the farmers’ accounts under the scheme.
193. Temperature controlled largest Terminal to store Agro and Pharma

Products launched at Mumbai airport
The Mumbai airport has recently launched the world largest temperature-controlled
facility to store agro and pharma products. The “Export Cold Zone” launched is capable
of holding more than 700 tonnes of cargo.
1. Highlights
The terminal connects 500 cargo destinations spread across 175 countries. The unit is
spread over 6,000 square metres. It is spread across 12 truck docks equipped with dock-
levellers, automated workstations, spacious acceptance and examination area, X-Ray
machines and Ball mat system for Unit Load Device.
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2. IATA CEIV PHARMA
It is an accreditation provided by International Air Transport Association. The Centre of
Excellence for Independent Validators in Pharmaceuticals Logistics (CEIV Pharma) was
launched by IATA in order to enhance the supply chain of pharma products all over the
world. This accreditation establishes safety, security, efficiency and compliance in
handling pharmaceutical products.
194. US to sign peace deal with Taliban forces to end war in Afghanistan
The US President Donald Trump recently announced that the United States of America
will sign a peace agreement with the Taliban forces on February 29, 2020.
1. Highlights
The US and the Taliban forces are to sign peace agreement to end the war of 18 years in
Afghanistan. After the agreement, 12,000 US troops that are currently deployed in
Afghanistan are to return to US.
2. Taliban
The Talibans are sunni Islamic fundamentalists that are currently waging war in
Afghanistan. The Taliban held power between 1996 and 2001. They emerged a powerful
political and military organization in Afghanistan. Under Taliban rule in Afghanistan,
Opium was completely eradicated. But today, 80% of the world opium originates in
Afghanistan. However, the Talibans openly celebrated the 09/11 attacks on the US.
3. US-Taliban
The US waged war in Afghanistan after the 9/11 terrorist attack. The war was waged to
roll back the control of Taliban. The US conducted two major operations to contain
terrorism of Talibans. They were Operation Enduring Freedom (2001-14) and Operation
Freedom’s Sentinel (2015-present).
195. ICMR Report says Delhi and Ahmedabad tops in added-fat

consumption
The Indian Council of Medical Research conducted study on the food habits of the
citizens of the country. The study said that vegetarians consume more fat than that of
non-vegetarians. Also, among the metropolitan cities of India, Delhi and Ahmedabad
topped the list in average consumption of added fat.
1. Highlights
The survey was conducted by ICMR based on the data provided by the National Nutrition
Monitoring Bureau. According to the study, people whose diet relied on deep fried food
consumed more added fat than those who ate boiled food.
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2. GoI on Nutrition
India is a signatory of the resolution “Transforming our World: 2030 Agenda for
Sustainable Development”. Achieving Inclusive Growth is one of the main targets of
Sustainable Development Goals. Under the target, India is stepping towards food
security with Nutrition playing the major role.
196. Artificial Intelligence based Chatbot ASKDISHA launched by the

Railways
The Indian Railways recently launched Artificial Intelligence based chatbot called
“ASKDISHA”. The chatbot will interact with the Railway customers in Hindi language
resolving their queries.
1. Highlights
The Chatbot was initially launched in 2018 in English. Now, the chatbot has been
empowered to converse in Hindi. The bot handles more than 3.000 inquiries. There are
further plans to launch the chatbot in more languages.
2. AI in Indian Railways
Indian Railways is the fourth largest in the world. The technology of Artificial Intelligence
in Indian Railways is implemented in the following areas
3. Budget 2020
In the Union Budget 202, Rs 1.61 lakh crores were allocated for Indian Railways. This is
3% higher than the previous year budget allocation. With this, GoI plans to make the
railway stations smarter with faster Wi-Fi and easy smart digital technology-based
ticketing.
197. Facts Box: Thal Sena Bhawan, the new Army Headquarters
The Defence Minister Rajanth Singh recently laid foundation stone to construct a new
Army Headquarters in Delhi Cantontment. The building has been named “Thal Sena
Bhawan”.
1. Highlights
The building is designed as a rising sun and is spread over 39 acres. The new
department that integrates army, navy and air force is to be placed under Chief of
Defence Staff in the new building. The construction of the building is expected to be
completed in 3 to 4 years. Around 1,700 officers and 1,300 sub staffs are to be
accommodated in the building.
2. GRIHA
Griha is Green Rating for Integrated Habitat Assessment. These buildings consume
resources from municipal wastes or indirectly from emissions of electricity generation. It
is basically a rating tool. It gives star rating to the buildings based on their performance
in using resources for their design, build, running and demolition provisions.
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198. February 24: Central Excise Day
Every year, on February 24, the Central Excise Day is being celebrated by Central Board
of Excise and Customs all over India. The day is being celebrated to honour the service
of Central Board of Excise and Custom (CBEC) to the country.
1. Highlights
The day is also celebrated to honour the officers associated with CBEC and their
services. This is done to encourage the officers to carry out their duties with utmost
sincerity. The officers, every year perform checking of corruption in goods from
manufacturing sector.
2. History
The say is celebrated to commemorate the legislation of Central Excise and Salt act in
24 February, 1944.
3. CBEC
The CBEC operates under Ministry of Finance. It deals with policy formulation related to
collection of service tax and central excise and duties. It is also responsible for the
checking the implementation of Customs act, 1962, Central Excise Act 1944, Customs
Tariff Act 1975 and Service Tax Act.
199. PM Kisan Mobile App launched to succeed “Doubling Farmer

Income by 2022”
The successful completion of one year of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi is being
celebrated on February 24, 2020. In order to commemorate its success, PM Kisan Mobile
app was launched by the Minister of Agriculture and Farmer Welfare Narendra Singh
Tomar.
1. Highlights
The application helps farmers to learn about their payment status, their eligibility
towards a scheme and several other information. The application will help the
government to reach farmers easily. It will also act as a platform to deliver information
about government schemes and other beneficiaries. This overall will help GoI achieve its
goal of “Doubling Farmers’ Income by 2022” easily.
2. PM Kisan Samman Nidhi

The small and marginal landholders are eligible to receive Rs 6,000 per year under the
scheme. The following higher economic status of agricultural sector are not eligible
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200. NITI Aayog Report: 28% of Aadhaar based payment are going to
wrong accounts
The NITI Aayog has released a progress report on National Nutrition Mission (Poshan
Abhiyaan). According to the report, one in three Aadhaar based payments was credited
to a wrong bank account, especially in Pradhan Mantri Matru Vandana Yojana.
1. Highlights
This is the second report prepared by the think tank. The report was prepared and
released by the Ministry of Women and Child Development. According to the report, 28%
of Aadhaar based payments were going to wrong bank accounts.
2. Why PMMVY in specific?

Out of all the women and child development schemes, PMMVY is crucial because, Rs
6,000 transferred to the pregnant and lactating mothers should reach them on time. This
is because they are credited as wage compensation and for their betterment of health.
3. Ranking of the states

The report also ranked the states based on 4 parameters namely
201. Facts Box: Cheetah Reintroduction Project
Cheetah has become extinct in India for more than 70 years now due to over hunting.
Hence, several steps are being taken for the reintroduction of the cat in the country. It
was brought up at CMS-COP 13 as well.
1. Highlights
On January 28, 2020, the Supreme Court of India cleared way for the reintroduction of
Cheetah Project. It is expected that the National Tiger Conservation Authority will
reintroduce the mammal in Kuno-Palpur Wildlife Sanctuary after conducting an
assessment.
2. Cheetah in India
Cheetah has become extinct in India mainly because of hunting. The last Cheetah was
shot in Chhattisgarh in 1947. In 2000, scientists proposed to clone Asiatic Cheetah from
Iran. However, the plan was dropped as Iran demanded for an Asiatic lion in return. After
such several hurdles, Cheetah is being reintroduced in the country.
February 25, 2020
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202. US President Donald Trump visits India: Signs Defence Deals
On February 24, 2020, the US President Donald Trump visited India. He was
accompanied by his wife, the first lady, Melania Trump, daughter Ivanka and son-in-law
Jared Kushner. Along side his visit, India and US signed defence deals worth 3 billion
USD.
1. Highlights
The President was welcomed by PM Modi in a traditional way at Ahmedabad airport. Mr
Trump later visited Sabarmati Ashram and Taj Mahal. The leaders then addressed a
large gathering at Motera stadium. India celebrated the visit of the US President by
naming the event as “Namaste Trump”.
2. Defence Deal
India and US will sign two defence deals for helicopters. Around 24 MH-60R helicopters
are to be signed for Indian Navy and six AH-64E helicopters are to be signed for Apache
helicopters.
3. India-US
The defence relation between India and US began in 2005. The countries signed a
framework to build a strategic defence cooperation between them. In 2012, the Defence
Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) was launched. The DTTI implements Next
Generation Protective Ensembles for Chem-bio protection. In 2015, a strategic vision for
Asia Pacific (the now Indo Pacific) and the Indian Ocean Region was signed.
203. Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad resigns
On February 24, 2020, the Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammad resigned over
political issues.
1. Highlights
The 94-year old Mahathir tried to form a coalition. This move would exclude his
successor Anwar Ibrahim. This led to a tussle in the party and eventually the leader
resigned. However, he will act as an interim PM.
2. India and Mahathir

Mr Mahathir was known for his comments on India’s Abrogation of Article 370. At the
United Nations General Assembly that was held in September 2019, he commented that
India “invaded, occupied” Kashmir. Following this, India slowly stopped importing Palm
oil from Malaysia. This hit Malaysian Palm oil market greatly.
3. India-Malaysia
Malaysia is the 19th largest investor of India. There are more than 150,000 Indians living
in Malaysia. Following Palm oil, India is to impose curbs over other imports from Malaysia
such as micro-processors, telecom products, aluminium ingots, aluminum wire, etc.
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204. GoI launches “SPICe+” to improve Ease of Doing Business in the
country
On February 24, 2020, the Government of India launched SPICe+, a web form that
integrates 10 services of various ministries and departments. This will help boost Ease of
Doing Business in India. It was launched by the Ministry of Corporate Affairs.
1. Highlights
The Simplified Proforma for Incorporating Company Electronically Plus provides 10
services thereby saving time, cost for starting a business in India. It offers 10 services
namely DIN allotment, issue of PAN, TAN, EPFO. ESIC registration, opening bank account
for a company, allotment of GSTIN, issue of Profession Tax, etc.
2. Ease of Doing Business Ranking

In 2019, the World Bank placed India at the 136th rank for Ease of Starting Business. It
was provided the 154th and 115th ranks for paying taxes and enforcing contracts
respectively. Therefore, it is essential for initiatives such as SPICe+ to improve India’s
position globally.
205. Minister reviews progress of meeting of Institute of Eminence
On February 24, 2020, the Union Minister Shri Ramesh Pokhriyal chaired a high-level
meeting to review the progress of Institutes of Eminence.
1. Highlights
The following decision were taken at the meeting
2. Unnat Bharat Scheme

Unnat Bharat Scheme was launched to promote development in the rural areas. The
scheme aims to address the increasing inequity in the rural areas due to ecological
degradation.
206. February 25: First anniversary of National War Memorial

commemorated
On February 25, 2020, the first anniversary of National War Memorial was
commemorated. The CDS Bipin Rawat paid tribute to the memorial and so did several
other leaders of the country.
1. Highlights
The memorial was dedicated by the Prime Minster to honour the fallen heroes of wars.
Today, more than 5,000 people visit the monument everyday. The monument was built
in 40 acres of land at India Gate, New Delhi. The monument honours more than 26,000
soldiers.
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2. India Gate
India Gate is also a war memorial. It was built in 1931 to commemorate the Martyrs of
India who died in World War I. It bears names of more than 13,516 soldiers who
sacrificed their lives in the war.
207. Human Resources Development Ministry presents Vishwakarma

Awards
On February 24, 2020, the Union Minster Ramesh Pokhriyal presented the Vishwakarma
awards for the year 2019. Around 23 groups were awarded Chatra Vishwakarma Awards
and 6 institutes were awarded with Utkrisht Santhan Vishwakarma Award.
1. Highlights
This year the theme of competition of the award is as follows
2. About Vishwakarma Awards

The awards were instituted by AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) since
2017. They are being awarded every year for the growth of the society. The Chhatra
Vishwakarma awards are Class I awards and are presented for highly progressive staff.
The Utkrisht Sansthan Vishwakarma Awards are Class II awards that are presented to
excellent institutional intervention.
3. AICTE
The All India Council for Technical Education is an advisory body that gained statutory
status in 1987. It accredits graduate and post graduate programmes. The body is
assisted by 10 other statutory boards such as Technical education, architecture
education, vocational education, pharmaceutical education, etc
208. GoI: More firearms for Indian Shooters and others should surrender
excess guns
On February 24, 2020, the Ministry of Home Affairs has issued notification under the
Arms Act, 1959 and Arms Rules, 2016. The main aim of the notice is to facilitate the
shooting practices of Indian Shooters.
1. Highlights
According to the new rules, the renowned shooters and international medalists shall hold
12 additional weapons. Earlier the number was seven. Also, if a shooter is renowned in
one event, he shall hold 8 and if he is an expert in more than 2 events, he shall hold 10
and for more than 2 events, he shall hold 12.
2. Issues of Arms (Amendment) Act

As the act was passed, the people of Punjab protested widely. This included
businessmen, farmers and even retired army men. This is because, according to them,
50% of the villagers in Punjab stay in remote places. They have to protect
themselves. Also, the villagers close to Pakistan border were insecure.
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3. Cultural Issues
The step is being opposed by the Rajputs as well. They possess antique guns that are
worshipped as family heirlooms.
209. Committee submits report on Clause 6 of Assam Accord
On February 25, 2020, a high-level committee submitted its report to the Assam Chief
Minister Sarbananda Sonowal over the implementation of Clause 6 of Assam Accord.
1. Highlights
The committee was headed by Retd Justice B K Sharma. The report is to be submitted by
the CM to the Union Home Minister Amit Shah.
2. What is Clause 6 of Assam Accord?

The Clause provides constitutional, administrative and legislative safeguards to preserve
and promote cultural, linguistic and heritage of Assamese people.
3. Actions taken under Clause 6

Several actions have been taken under Clause 6 to provide administrative, constitutional
and legislative safeguards to the Assamese people. They include
4. What is Assam Accord?

Assam Accord was an agreement signed between the government of India and the
leaders of Assam Movement in 1985. Under the agreement, the GoI agreed to accept all
the migrants that entered before 1966 and GoI agreed to provide social, political,
cultural and economic rights to the Assamese people.
210. Five Judges of Supreme Court infected with Swine Flu; Ministry of
Health takes immediate actions
On February 25, 2020, five judges of Supreme Court were infected from Swine Flu.
Though the disease caused by H1N1 virus is seasonal, the Ministry of Health took several
preventive measures in order to prevent further spread of the disease.
1. Highlights
Under the guidance of Ministry of Health, Prophylactic treatment was given to all the
members who came in contact with the judges. A workshop is to be conducted at the Bar
Council of India Office.
2. Peak Seasons of H1N1

The Swine Flu is at its peak twice every year. It is between January and March and also
between July and September. Though, the infections are common at this point of time,
preventive actions being taken throughout the complex of the apex court to contain the
spread of the virus.
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3. H1N1
H1N1 is an Influenza virus. It was first reported in 2009. The stain of the virus that
infects humans are alone pandemic. The other stains of the virus namely swine influenza
infecting pigs and Avian Influenza infecting birds are endemic.
4. What is Pandemic, Endemic and Epidemic?

Pandemic is a disease that may spread throughout the world. Endemic is a disease that
exists permanently with in a territory or among a specific population. Epidemic is a
disease that attacks many people in the same time and spreads through several
communities.
211. President Trump visit to India: 2 MoUs and 1 Letter of Cooperation

signed
On February 24, 2020, the US President Donald Trump visited India along with his wife
Melania Trump. On the sidelines of his visit, agreements were signed in the field of
health, oil and defence.
1. Highlights
In the Defence Sector, 3 billion USD worth deal was signed to buy helicopters. The
Memorandum of Understandings were signed in the field of oil and health. In the field of
health, Central Drugs Standard Control Organization and the US Food and Drug
Administration signed agreements over the safety of medical products.
2. Significance of MoU with USFDA

It is essential to be on good equations with the USFDA and also abide by its regulations.
This is because, the pharmaceutical exports to USA require USFDA certification. And US
is the top export destination of Pharmaceuticals for India. In 2018-19, around 5820
million USD worth pharmaceuticals were exported to US from India.
3. Other Agreements
An MoU was also signed between the mental health departments of the countries. The
countries also signed a letter of cooperation in the field of Oil.
212. What is Happiness Curriculum in Government Schools attended by

Melania Trump?
On February 25, 2020, the first lady of the United States Melania Trump attended
Happiness Classes at the Delhi Government Schools. She accompanied President Trump
in their visit to India.
1. Highlights
The Happiness Classes are one of the flagship programmes of the Delhi Government.
The programme launched in 2018 had received commendations from different parts of
the world. It focuses on arts-based, cognition, numeracy and literacy-based teachings. It
is completely different from the traditional marks-oriented teachings.
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2. Objective
The Happiness Curriculum aims to develop citizens who are awakened, aware, mindful,
empathetic and above all firmly rooted to their identity. The programme also aims to
mold children to cater the needs of today’s society.
3. Output of the Curriculum

The Curriculum develops self-awareness among the students. It inculcates inquiry skills
and critical thinking. The programme also imbibes effective communication skills in
students. It enables them to use their skills towards problem solving mode during
conflicting situations. It also reduces depression, anxiety and intolerance among
students.
213. Report says Dolphins of Odisha’s Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary has

halved
The Forest Department of the Odisha State Government conducted a census at Chilika
lake to count the number of dolphins at Gahirmatha Marine Sanctuary in Odisha. The
Sanctuary is a part of Bhitarkanika National Park of Odisha. The report was released in
February 24, 2020.
1. Highlights
According to the report, the dolphin count came down to 233 in 2020 from 259 in 2019.
At the census, 60 Irawaddy Dolphins and only two bottle nose dolphins were spotted. In
2019, the officials had spotted 14 Irawaddy Dolphins and 14 bottle nose dolphins.
2. About the Census

The Dolphin Census at the Garimatha Marine Sanctuary was held for the first time in
2015. It was cancelled in 2016 and 2017 due to bad weather.
3. Chilika Lake and the dolphins

Chilika lake is a Ramsar Site. This year as the prawn Gherries were dismantled, the
dolphins were spread all over the lake. Dolphins are listed in Schedule I of Indian Wildlife
(Protection) act 1972. The IUCN red list categorizes Dolphins as Endangered.
February 26, 2020
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214. EEESL of GoI completes one successful year in making India Energy
Efficient
The EESL (Energy Efficiency Services Limited) recently celebrated its 10 years of
successful operation. The Company adopted the policy of making India Energy Efficiency
a year back. It has successfully completed its one year of energy efficiency policy.
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1. Highlights
In the last one year, the company has installed more than 10 lakh smart meters all over
India under the Smart Meter National Programme. The company has replaced more than
10.6 million street light bulbs with LED lights. This helped to reduce 20 million tonnes of
Carbon-Dioxide. Low cost LED bulbs were distributed through Unnat Jyoti Programme
(UJALA). Today, UJALA is the largest domestic lighting project in the world.
2. About EESL
EESL is the largest energy service company in the world. Apart from Indian projects, the
company has also taken up transformation in foreign countries such as UK, south Asia,
Middle East and South-East Asia.
3. Way Forward
In the future, the company is to commission 100 MW of decentralized solar power plants.
215. 30 Years Egypt Ruler Mohammed Hosni Mubarak passes away
On February 25, 2020, the Egypt ruler Mohammed Hosni Mubarak died at the age of 91.
He was severely ill in the last months of his life.
1. Revolution
Mubarak was ousted from his rule in 2011. He and his sons were detained on allegations
of corruption and abuse of power.
2. Gulf War
At the Gulf war in 1991, Egyptian forces were the first to enter Saudi Arabia to remove
Iraqi forces from Kuwait. Under the command of Mohammed, Egypt took active
participation at Gulf War.
216. What is Counter Cyclical Fiscal Policy of GoI?
The Government of India has adopted “Counter Cyclical Fiscal Policy” in order to
decrease the Economic Slow Down in the country. The Economic Chief Advisor
Subramanian at the Express Adda event in Mumbai highlighted that Counter Cyclical
Fiscal Policy is the only way forward to create additional fiscal headroom
1. Highlights
The GoI is in the path of achieving 5 trillion USD economy. According to the Economic
Survey 2019-20, Wealth Creation is the only way to achieve the target. Alongside Wealth
Creation, the GoI has planned to adopt more counter-cyclical Fiscal measures to arrest
the economic slowdown.
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2. Counter-Cyclical Fiscal Policy
It is the strategy adopted to counter recession or boom through fiscal measures. During
recession, the Counter cyclical fiscal policy aims at reducing taxes and increasing
expenditure. It aims to create demand in the country to bring an upswing in the country.
On the other hand, during boom in an economy, the counter-cyclical fiscal policy aims at
increasing taxes and reducing public expenditure. This is because, allowing amplification
of boom can be disastrous. This is because, it may increase inflation and debt crisis.
3. Pro Cyclical Fiscal Policy

This was acknowledged by the Economic Survey 2017. It goes in line with the current
mode of a business. For instance, during a boom, Government may increase its
expenditure to allow further growth of the boom.
217. India-US MoU on Mental Health: Indian Traditional Therapies to be

exchanged for US Generic Drugs
During the US President Donald Trump visit to India, the countries signed agreements in
the field of energy, oil, defence and health. India and US signed the agreement on
mental health to enable India to treat mental health issues.
1. Highlights
The Agreement facilitates greater access of traditional drugs and therapies of India to
the US market. In return, India is to gain access to generic drug market of US. This will
help India obtain higher standards of generic standard compliance.
2. Need
According to Lancet Report, the mental health disorders have increased from 3% in 1990
to 6% in 2013. This is expected to be low, as the report says that 80% of the mental
disorders in the country are not reported.
218. GISAT 1: New Age Satellite to monitor India continuously to be

launched on March 5
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) is to launch GISAT 1 (Geo-Imaging

Satellite) in order to watch Indian sub-continent continuously.
1. Highlights
The satellite is to be launched by the ISRO on March 5, 2020. The satellite is to be
carried by GSLV-F10 rocket. The satellite weighs 2,275 kg and is to be placed in
Geosynchronous orbit.
2. GISAT
GISAT is Geo-Information Satellite. The satellite is to do a full rotation of the earth and
come to the same point every 2 hours. The satellite is capable of performing rapid
surveillance and fast imaging. The ISRO has designed the satellite in such a way that if
needed the satellite can observe a point for a longer duration.
121
219. Indian National Centre for Ocean Information launched new Alert
System
The Hyderabad based INCOIS (Indian National Centre for Ocean Information) launched a
new alert system that will help reduce damage and losses to fishermen due to swell
surges. The Swell Surges splash strong waves in the coast damaging boats and nets. The
system will help fishermen to get prior alerts about swell surges and safeguard their
boats.
1. Highlights
The INCOIS, an autonomous body operating under Ministry of Earth Sciences launched
the alert system that will help provide early warnings about Swell Surges. This is to be
launched exclusively for coastal population. The Coastlines of Indian Sub-continent after
Tsunami has been experiences damages due to swell waves that originate in distant
Southern Indian Ocean.
2. What are Swell Surges?

A Swell Surge is caused due to surface gravity. They are surface gravity waves and not
wind waves (the common waves). Wind Waves are generated by the local winds. On the
other hand, swell surges are generated due to distant weather systems.
220. DPIIT notifies 100% Foreign Direct Investment in Insurance

Intermediaries
The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT) operating under
Ministry of Commerce and Trade has amended the FDI (Foreign Direct Policy) to allow
100% foreign investment for insurance intermediaries. This includes insurance
companies, third party administrators, insurance brooking, loss assessors and surveyors.
1. Highlights
Initially DPIIT had allowed only 49% of FDI in the insurance sector. This has now been
increased to 100% to increase Ease of doing business in the insurance sector. With this
move, the foreign companies shall easily buy stakes in Indian Insurance Companies.
2. Background
The 100% FDI in Insurance Sector was announced by Finance Minister Nirmala
Sitaraman in the Budget 2020-21. This is essential because, according to UNCTAD
(United Nations Conference on Trade and Development) World Investment Report, 2019,
India faced third consecutive annual decline in terms of FDI in 2019.
3. UNCTAD
UNCTAD is a UN Body that deals with trade and investment. It was established in 1964.
It also measures the Sustainable Development Goal set out by the member countries of
the United Nations.
122
221. Desert Locust Control High Level Meeting held
On February 25, 2020, the Agriculture Ministry held a high-level meeting on Desert
Locust Control. The meeting was chaired by Secretary of Ministry of Agriculture and
Farmer Welfare.
1. Highlights
The meeting discussed the locust control operations carried on between May 2019 and
February 2020. The report submitted by National Disaster Response Force was discussed
at the meet. The report was submitted by an inter-ministerial team that visited the
states of Rajasthan and Gujarat to assess crop losses.
2. Locusts in India
There are 10 important locust species on the earth that cause major damages. Out of
these, only 4 are found in India. They are Desert Locust, Bombay Locust, Migratory
Locust and Tree Locust.
222. Indra Dhanush Exercise 2020: India-UK joint Air Force Exercise held
at Air Force Station Hindon
The 5th edition of the Exercise Indra Dhanush commenced on 24th February, 2020. It is
a joint air force exercise between the Indian Air Force and the Royal Air Force of the
United Kingdom.
1. Highlights
The Exercise focused on “Base Defence and Force Protection”. Around 36 specialized
combatants of the Royal Air Force participated in the exercise. From the Indian side, 42
combatants of Garud Commando Force participated in the exercise.
2. Hindon Air Force Station

The Hindon Air Force Station operates under Western Air Command. It is the eighth
largest air base in the world and the largest air base in Asia. It is located in Ghaziabad,
Uttar Pradesh.
3. Garud Commando Force

The Garud Commando Force was formed in September 2004. The force is mainly tasked
with the protection of air bases and installations, disaster relief, search and rescue
operations during hostilities. They are currently deployed in Congo to fulfill United
Nations Peace keeping operations.
February 27, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
123
223. National Technical Textiles Mission approved by Cabinet Committee
on Economic Affairs
On February 26, 2020, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs approved the
National Technical Textiles Mission. The mission has been allocated Rs 1,480 crores. The
aim of the mission is to make India a global leader in Technical Textiles.
1. Highlights
The Mission is to be implemented in India for 4 years, that is, between 2020-21 and
2023-24. There are 4 components of the mission as follows
2. Significance
It is important to develop National Technical Textiles Mission because they are used in
roads. Agriculture, sportswear, railway tracks and space applications.
224. RAISE 2020: An International “Artificial Intelligence” Summit to be

organised by GoI
The Government of India (GoI) is to organize an Artificial Intelligence (AI) Summit called
RAISE 2020. RAISE stands for Responsible AI for Social Empowerment. The Summit is to
be held in New Delhi between April 11 and 12, 2020.
1. Highlights
The summit will be attended by experts of Artificial Intelligence from all over the world. It
will focus on using AI towards social empowerment, transformation and inclusion and
also in other key areas such as agriculture, healthcare, smart mobility and education.
2. Significance
It is essential to implement AI in social transformation as it will help in bringing
regulatory changes. It will improve the efficiency of work places, reduce operating costs.
With autonomous transportation, AI can help save large amounts of fuel and time.
3. Negative Impacts
Though there are several benefits of Artificial Intelligence, the only concern towards the
technology is that it has the potential to minimize the work force in a sector. Especially
in a country like India that is second most populous in the world, it is essential to keep
track that AI does not reduce employment opportunities.
225. Union Cabinet approves changes introduced in Surrogacy

(Regulation) bill
On February 26, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved the changes introduced to the
Surrogacy (Regulation) bill, 2019. The changes were introduced by the 23-member
select committee of Rajya Sabha.
124
1. Highlights
The changes approved include not only close relatives but “any woman” willing to act as
a surrogate mother shall be allowed. It has also approved deleting the definition of
infertility. Earlier infertility in the bill was defined as inability to conceive after
unprotected intercourse for 5 years. The committee believed that it was too long period
for a couple to wait for a child. The Insurance Cover of a surrogate mother is to be
increased from 16 months to 36 months.
2. Background
The Surrogacy (Regulation) bill was passed in Lok Sabha in 2019. The aim of the bill was
to prevent commercial surrogacy. It also aims to promote altruistic surrogacy that does
not demand monetary compensation apart from medical expenses and insurance.
226. EASE 3.0 launched by the Finance Minister to enhance Ease of

Banking
On February 26, 2020, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman launched Enhanced
Access and Service Excellence (EASE 3.0). It was launched along with the annual report
of EASE 2.0 at a function organized by Indian Banks’ Association.
1. Highlights
The main aim of EASE 3.0 is to make public sector banking technology enabled and
smart. By this the initiative intends to achieve ease of banking for customers. Along with
its launch, the GoI has also warned about the over reliance of the state-run banks on
credit rating agencies while sanctioning loans.
2. What is EASE?
EASE is set of technology-based banking reforms. It aims at improvising banking sector
with technology. It ensures wider financial inclusion, better banking experience and
easier credit distribution.
3. Significance
The initiative will enhance paperless, digital banking. It will also support other GoI
initiatives such as Udyami Mitra, credit take-off, Dial-a-loan and credit at a click. EASE
will increase the reach all these initiatives and improve the standards of banking sector.
227. Cabinet Approval: Occupancy rights to Scheduled Tribes of

Lakshadweep
On February 26, 2020, the Union Cabinet approved amendments to provide occupancy
rights to Scheduled Tribes of Lakshadweep. The approval was provided to amend the
Laccadive, Minicoy and Amindivi Islands Land Revenue and Tenancy Regulation, 1965.
1. Highlights
The Scheduled Tribes in the island did not have occupancy rights so far. The Occupancy
right is the right to occupy and use tribal area.
125
2. Background
Lakshadweep is an Archipelago with 12 atolls, five submerged banks and three reefs.
There are 17 uninhabited islands in the region. According to Census 2011, there are
64,429 persons in the island. Of this 93% of the population are indigenous and the entire
indigenous population in the island has been classified as Scheduled Tribes due to their
social and Economic Backwardness.
228. Market Intelligence and Early Warning Systems to monitor prices of

Onion, Tomato and Potato
On February 26, 2020, the Minister of Food Processing Industry launched Market
Intelligence and Early Warning System (MIEWS) Web Portal in New Delhi. The MIEWS is
first of its kind.
1. Highlights
The main function of MIEWS is to monitor prices of onion, tomato and potato (TOP
crops). It will also generate alerts under the terms of Operations Green Scheme. The
portal will also provide information related to prices, yield and production, arrivals, crop
agronomy, imports and exports, etc.
2. Operation Green Scheme

Under Operation Green Scheme, the surplus production from producing areas are taken
to consumption centres. In order to achieve this, the scheme provides guidelines under
which the surplus production are allowed to be taken to markets. They are as follows
229. Largest conference on traditional medicine: AYUSH Terminologies

and their Standardisation held in New Delhi
On February 26, 2020, the largest ever conference on traditional medicine was held in
New Delhi. The ICoSDiTAUS-2020 called the International Conference on Standardisation
of Diagnosis and Terminologies of AYUSH was attended by 16 countries. It included
Serbia, Sri Lanka, Curacao, Mauritius, Iran, Japan, Qatar, Uzbekistan, Bhutan,
Switzerland, Myanmar, Cuba, Ghana, Jamaica, Equatorial Guinea and India.
1. Highlights
The major topic that was discussed at the conference includes “Challenges in Counting
and Classification of Traditional Medicine Encounters”. It also discussed about
International Classification of Diseases based on traditional medicinal systems.
2. Significance
AYUSH is acronym of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homeopathy.
GoI has been taking several steps to promote AYUSH. One such step is this conference of
standardization. It is important because, AYUSH helps to find cost effective treatment.
For a populous country like India where expenditure on health sector is just 1.17% of
GDP (2019), cost effective treatments like AYUSH have vital role.
126
230. VAJRA: The Offshore Patrol Vessel-6 launched at Chennai
On February 27, 2020, the 6th Coast Guard OPV-6 (Offshore Patrol Vessel-6) called the
“VAJRA” was launched in Chennai.
1. Highlights
The OPV will assist Indian Navy in guarding 7,500 km long coast line and 20 lakh square
kilo metre of Exclusive Economic Zone. It will also help to safeguard one lakh merchant
ships transiting in the Indian Ocean from all over the world.
2. Indian Coast Guard

Indian Coast Guard is an armed force of India. It protects the maritime interests of India
and also enforces maritime law in the territorial waters of India. The Indian Coast Guard
operates under Ministry of Defence. There are 5 Indian Coast Guard Regions in India.
They are Western Region (Mumbai), Eastern Region (Chennai), North-East Region
(Kolkata), Andaman and Nicobar Region (Port Blair) and North-West Regions
(Gandhinagar).
231. Sri Lanka withdraws from UNHRC Resolution
On February 26, 2020, the Sri Lankan Government formally notified the United Nations
that it will withdraw from the UNHRC (United Nations Human Rights Council) resolution.
1. Highlights
The UNHRC resolution 40/1 was co-sponsored by Sri Lanka and 11 other countries. The
main aim of the resolution is investigation of war time violence against Tamil Tiger
rebels.
2. The US-China Factor

The United States barred the Sri Lankan Army Chief from entering the US soil accusing
him of war crimes. Experts believe that the decision of Sri Lanka to withdraw from
UNHRC is an after effect of US move.
2.1. Why?
Today, China has taken the port of Hambantota in Sri Lanka for a lease of 99 years. It is
now used by the Chinese as a Naval base. There are more such upper hands of the
Chinese in the internal political matters of Sri Lanka. With China’s greater presence in Sri
Lanka and its defence forces, US was hesitant towards the Sri Lankan Army Chief visit to
the US.
February 28, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
127
232. Myanmar President Visits India: India-Myanmar sign 10 MoUs
On February 27, 2020, the Myanmar President U Win Myint visited India. During his visit,
India and Myanmar signed 10 MoUs in different sectors.
1. Highlights
The leaders signed agreements on Repatriation and Re-integration of Victims of
trafficking, Quick Impact Projects, Development of Rakhine State, etc. They also signed
Memorandum of Understandings on construction of schools, roads, water supply systems
and solar power systems.
2. Rakhine State
The Rakhine State of Myanmar is the region of ongoing conflict between buddhist
community and Rohingya community. The Conflict began during world war II. During
World War II, the Rohingya Muslims fought along side British against the Rakhine
Buddhists in return of a separate Muslim state.
233. Light Combat Helicopter Production inaugurated in HAL Bengaluru
On February 27, 2020, the Defence Minister Raj Nath Singh inaugurated Light combat
Helicopter production at the HAL complex in Bengaluru. The project is a part of the
“Make in India” initiative.
1. Light Combat Helicopters

The Light Combat Helicopters (LCH) were completely designed by HAL. It has 2 engines
and several latest technical features. The helicopters are to be deployed at the Siachen
base which is 4,700 metres above the sea level. It has the capacity to carry 500 kg of
load.
2. Significance
India has been taking several steps to strengthen the Indian Air Force and also to
increase Defence Exports. India has set a target of achieving Rs 35,000 crores of
Defence Exports by 2024. Manufacturing of the Light Combat Helicopter will help India
achieving the above goals.
3. Background
The need for the production of Light Combat Helicopters came from Kargil war. The LCH
is a derivative of HAL Dhruv that was developed during 1990s.
234. NITI Aayog launches Artificial Intelligence Modules in Schools
The GoI think tank NITI Aayog joined hands with the National Association of Software and
Services (NASSCOM) and launched the Artificial Intelligence module for school students.
The NITI Aayog is to be represented by Atal Innovation Mission of the think tank.
128
1. Highlights
The Artificial Intelligence module is to be implemented in 5,000 Atal Tinkering labs and
this is to empower 2.5 million students. NITI Aayog believes that India shall add 1.3% of
its GDP if machine learning and Artificial Intelligence are developed.
2. Significance
It is expected that the global Artificial Market is likely to grow to the range of 15 to 15.5
trillion USD by 2030. Of this India is to certainly contribute 1 trillion USD. Therefore, its is
important to prepare work power to sustain the growth of the field. If Indian work power
is not being prepared to fill the future requirement, the spaces will be occupied by
foreign nationals. This will create unemployment amongst Indian citizens and also push
Indian economy backwards.
235. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana: 32 projects sanctioned
On February 27, 2020, the Inter-Ministerial Approval Committee chaired by the Minister
of Food Processing sanctioned 32 projects under Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana
(PMKSY).
1. Highlights
The projects sanctioned have the capacity to create 15,000 employment opportunities.
The projects aim at increasing the shelf life of agricultural produce and provide steady
revenue for the farmers.
2. Significance
The market of processed food is growing at a rate of 8% every year. Therefore, by the
end of 2020 it is expected to reach 543 billion USD from 322 billion USD in 2016.
3. Pradhan Mantri Kisan Sampada Yojana

The Scheme was launched in 2016 for a period of 4 years, that is, till 2020. The GoI had
allocated Rs 6,000 crores for the scheme. The scheme was launched to develop seven
major components namely Integrated Cold Chain, Mega Food Parks, Infrastructure for
Agro-Processing clusters, food safety, expansion of food processing, human resources
and institutions, quality assurance infrastructure.
236. GoI to establish Central Consumer Protection Authority
The GoI recently decided to establish Central Consumer Protection Authority under the
Consumer Protection act, 2019.
1. Consumer Protection Authority

The authority protects, promotes and enforces rights of the consumers. It also regulates
matters that are related to unfair trade practices, violation of consumer rights and
misleading advertisements.
129
2. Central Consumer Protection act, 2019
The act was passed to strengthen consumer rights. It replaced the Consumer Protection
act, 1986. The act defines 6 consumer acts namely right to safety, right to be informer,
right to choose, right to be heard, right to consumer education and right to grievance
redressal.
3. Misleading Advertisements
The act gives special focus to stop misleading advertisements. The Section 21 of the
Consumer Protection act, 2019 deals with misleading advertisements. Under the Section
21 of the act, the consumer Protection Authority may impose penalty upto Rs 10 lakhs
on the advertiser, manufacturer, trader or even the endorser. The Authority has powers
to ban the endorser as well.
237. February 28: National Science Day
Every year on February 28, India celebrates National Science Day to mark the discovery
of Raman Effect by Sir C V Raman. Raman Effect was discovered by the professor on
February 28, 1928. This year, the National Science Day is celebrated under the theme
1. History
The National Science Day was first designated in 1986 and was first celebrated in 1987.
Sir C V Raman announced his discovery on this day. He was later awarded the Nobel
Prize for this discovery in 1930.
2. Raman Effect
The Effect states about scattering of light. When a beam of light comes out of a liquid,
the light wave scattered in a direction is different from that of the incoming light wave.
238. GoI to increase reach of banking in the North-East Tea Garden

areas
On February 27, 2020, the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitaraman announced that the
banking in the North East Region is to be increased.
1. Highlights
The minister in a meeting with economists, trade and industry representatives and
policy experts announced that the banking in the tea garden regions of the north east is
to be increased. This is being done to cover greater population of the North East under
Financial Inclusion.
2. Background
The main challenge in implementing Financial Inclusive schemes in the tea gardens of
Assam or any other tea-based region is daily wages. The tea garden workers prefer cash
in hand. This is mainly because most of the workers here are women and are illiterate.
130
239. Eastern Zonal Council Meet to be held in Bhubaneswar
The Eastern Zonal Council meeting for the states of Odisha, Bihar, West Bengal and
Jharkhand is to be chaired by home Minister Amit Shah. The meeting is to discuss cases
of rape against women, sexual offences, prevention of cattle smuggling in the India-
Bangladesh Border, etc.
1. Highlights
The Home Minister will discuss with the Chief Ministers of all the 4 participating states.
The minister will also review the status of the amendments of Code of Criminal
Procedure. Under the amendment, the time limit of the completion of investigation of
criminal cases were limited to two months. This was done through the Criminal Law
Amendment Act, 2018
2. Previous Councils
In the recent meetings of Western Zonal Council and Northern Zonal Council, the Home
Minister directed the state police review pending cases as quickly as possible. The
Council also instructed to update case details at Investigation Tracking System for
Sexual Offences. It is an online portal that helps states to undertake real-time
monitoring, managing and completion of cases, especially rape cases in 2 months.
3. Zonal Council
Zonal Councils are statutory bodies constituted under States Reorganization Act of 1956.
According to the act, India is divided into 5 zones and a council has been set up for every
zone. The zones include Northern, Eastern, Western, Southern and Central. In 1971, the
North Eastern council was created.
February 29, 2020
_____________________________________________________________________________
240. Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana: PM distributes aids and devices to

Divyangjan and Senior Citizens
On February 29, 2020, PM Modi is to distribute assistive aids and devices to senior
citizens and Divyangjan. This is the biggest ever distribution camp.
1. Highlights
The distribution camp of assistive aids and devices for senior citizens and Divyangjans
by PM Modi is being organized by the Ministry of Social Justice. The objective of the
event is to propagate information to senior citizens and Divyangjan belonging to Below
Poverty Line category about how to face their challenges in day-to-day life.
2. Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana

The RVY was launched in 2016 at Nellore, Andhra Pradesh. Since then 137 of these
device distribution camps have been conducted.
131
3. Significance
According to Census 2011, there are 10.38 crores of senior citizens. And of these, more
than 70% of them live in rural areas. Therefore, it is essential to take special care
towards them through these camps organized under Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana.
241. Mission Purvodaya: India-Japan join hands to make Odisha a Steel

Hub
On February 28, 2020, the Union Minister of Steel announced at a workshop organized
by Confederation of Indian Industries (CII) that GoI is to make Odisha the steel hub of
India. This is to be achieved by the Government with the help of Japan.
1. Highlights
Odisha has been selected to establish steel hub due to its strategic location, availability
of raw materials and strong connectivity. The city of Kalinga Nagar is to be developed as
the epicenter of Mission Purvodaya. With implementation of the mission, more than 75%
of steel is to come from eastern India with Odisha alone contributing more than 100
metric tonnes per annum.
2. Mission Purvodaya
The mission was launched in January 2020. It aims to develop Eastern India as an
integrated steel hub. Under the mission, the GoI aims to generate employment
opportunities and also increase growth of steel sector.
242. PM Modi launches 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations
On February 29, 2020, PM Modi shall launch 10,000 Farmer Producer Organizations at
Chitrakoot. The event is being organized to commemorate the successful completion of
Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana.
1. Significance
There are more than 86% of small and marginal farmers that hold less than 1.1 hectares
of land. They face challenges in buying fertilizers, quality seed, pesticides. The Farmer
Producer Organization help farmers in addressing these challenges. They help farmers
gain better access to market, technology and finance. Therefore, launching more and
more of these organizations will help in betterment of life of the farmers.
2. Kisan Credit Card

The PM will also launch a saturation drive on Kisan Credit Card to the beneficiaries PM
Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana. The motive of the drive is to distribute 2 crore cards to the
beneficiaries of the scheme. Today, over 6.5 crore cards have been issued under the
scheme.
132
243. February 29: World Rare Disease Day
Every Year, last date of February is observed as World Rare Disease Day. It was first
launched by Eurordis in 2008. It aims to create awareness about the impacts of the
disease. This year, it is observed on the theme
1. Rare Diseases
The rare diseases include Thalassemia, Haemophilia, Sickle Cell Anaemia and primary
immune deficiency according to WHO.
2. India
There are more than 70 million people that are affected by rare diseases in India. In
order to fight against rare diseases, the Union Ministry of Health released National Policy
for Rare Diseases.
3. National Policy on Rare Diseases

The National Policy on Rare Diseases aims to provide treatment up to Rs 15 lakhs. It
proposes to set up a registry under ICMR (Indian Council of Medical Research). The policy
categorizes rare diseases into three categories namely disorders requiring long term or
long-life therapy, disorders amenable to one-time treatment and incurable rare disease
disorders that require lifelong supportive care.
244. World Productivity Congress in India after 45 years of gap
The World Productivity Congress has been conducted by the World Confederation of
Productivity Science since 1969. It was last held in India in 1974. The Congress is held
under the theme
1. Highlights
The 19th World Productivity Congress to be held in Bengaluru aims at catalyzing
government approaches in enhancing productivity. It is to be held between May 6, 2020
and May 8, 2020.
2. Purpose
The Congress will act as a platform to shape future productivity growth. It will also help
India and other attending stakeholders to learn innovative approaches that are essential
to support the growing population. It is expected that the world population will reach 9.7
billion by 2050 and 11.2 billion by 2100 according to the United Nations.
3. Significance
According to the World Economic Forum, India will become the third largest economy in
the world after US and China by 2030. Also, in the next few years India is expected to
grow at 7% though it is facing a slowdown currently. This huge market potential of India
makes it an ideal choice for the 19th world productivity congress.
133
245. ICGS Varad: First Major Defence ship to clear all acceptance Trials
in a Single Sea Sortie
On February 28, 2020, the Indian Coast Guard’S ICGS Varad, an Offshore Patrol Vessel
was commissioned at Chennai port. The vessel is to operate under North Eastern Coast
Guard Region.
1. Highlights
The ICGS was built by L&T at Kattupalli near Chennai. It is 98 metres long and holds
modern navigation and communication equipment. It is also equipped with 30 mm and
12.7 mm guns. The vessel also holds other onboard features such as platform
management systems, integrated bridge system, high power external fire fighting
system, etc.
2. Special Features of the vessel

The Patrol vessel is equipped with pollution responsible equipment for oil spill at sea and
also swift boarding operations. It is also capable of carrying a twin-engine helicopter and
also 4 high speed boats.
3. What is Sortie?
Sortie is deployment of military unit in aircraft and shipping. It is a combat mission that
an individual aircraft deploys as it takes off.
134

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February 19, 2020

February 20, 2020

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February 24, 2020

February 25, 2020

February 26, 2020

February 27, 2020

February 28, 2020

February 29, 2020

1. Economic Survey: National Food Security Act Coverages should be

2. Current Scenario of NFSA

2. Economic Survey suggests “Assemble In India Model” to create 80

2. Assemble in India Model

4. India-Africa Defence Ministers Conclave at DefExpo for first time

5. Fiscal Deficit of GoI touched 132% of full year target

2. Economic Survey on Fiscal Deficit

6. Budget 2020-21 presented by Finance Minister: The Themes, GST

1.1. GST Reforms

3. Themes of the budget

7. Budget 2020: 2.83 lakh Crore Rupees allocated to Agriculture and

2. POINT 2 — Comprehensive Measures for 100 Water Stressed Districts

3. POINT 3 — Help 20 lakh farmers setup standalone solar pumps

4. POINT 4 — Reducing incentives to chemical fertilizers & promoting organic

5. POINT 5 — NABARD to Geo Tag and map warehouses

6. POINT 6 — Village Storage Scheme

7. POINT 7 — Kisan Rail under PPP model launched

8. POINT 8 — Krishi UDAN to be launched

9. POINT 9 — One District One Product extended to Horticulture

10. POINT 10 — Integrated Farming systems in Rain fed areas to be expanded

12. POINT 12 — 15 lakh crore agricultural credit

13. POINT 13 — Milk production 108 million MT by 2025

14. POINT 14 — Blue Economy-Fish Production boosted to 200 lakh tonnes

15. POINT 15 — Fish Farmer Producer Organization (Fish FPO) introduced

16. POINT 16 — SHGs of Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana to be mobilised

17. FUND ALLOCATION

8. Budget 2020: Wellness, Water and Sanitation

2. TB Harega Desh Jeetega

3. Jan Aushadi Jendra Scheme

4. FUND ALLOCATION FOR HEALTH

5.1. Swachh Bharat Mission-FUND ALLOCATION

6.1. Jal Jeevan Mission-FUND ALLOCATION

1. Higher Education Institutes

3. Online Education Portal

4. Study in India Programme-“INDSAT” Exam proposed

5. National Police and Forensic Science Universities to be established

6. Doctors’ inadequacy addressed

7. DNB and FNB

1. Investment Clearance Cell to be set up

2. 5 new smart cities

3.1. Electronics Manufacturing

4. Scheme to encourage mobile phones manufacturing