CURRENT EVENTS (JANUARY 2016)

India’s Petronet LNG ink revised contract with RasGas of Qatar 

• India’s biggest state owned gas importer Petronet LNG has signed a revised contract with RasGas of Qatar to import gas at a significantly lower price than earlier.

• Under the new contract, Rasgas will supply Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) to Petronet at 6-7 dollar per million British thermal units (mmBtu) from January 1, 2016.

• It would supply to 7.5 million tonnes of LNG India until the long-term contract ending in April 2028.

• The new rate is sharply lower than 12-13 dollar per mmbtu agreed earlier and has been  revised after falling global prices of oil and gas, saving  consumers around Rs.4,000 crore.

• The new price formula between the two companies is a win-win situation for both countries.  

• It also marks Union Government’s biggest diplomatic win to leverage India’s position as one of the world’s biggest energy consumers by striking better price bargains for its companies.

• It also indicates that tumbling oil prices and a global gas glut due to overproduction and fall in demand due to global economic slowdown are compelling exporters especially OPEC countries to offer better deals to retain their share in global energy trade.

• Petronet LNG Limited is one of the fastest growing world-class companies in the Indian energy sector.

• It has set up the country's first LNG receiving and regasification terminal at Dahej, Gujarat, and another terminal at Kochi, Kerala. While the Dahej terminal has a nominal capacity of 10 MMTPA [equivalent to 40 MMSCMD of natural gas], the Kochi terminal has a capacity of 5 MMTPA [equivalent to 20 MMSCMD of natural gas]. The company is in the process to build a third terminal at Gangavaram, Andhra Pradesh. 

• Formed as a Joint Venture by the Government of India to import LNG and set up LNG terminals in the country, it involves India's leading oil and natural gas industry players. Our promoters are GAIL (India) Limited (GAIL), Oil & Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC), Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) and Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL). The authorized capital is Rs. 1,200 crore ($240 million). 

• What is Natural Gas? : Natural Gas consists mainly of Methane and small amounts of ethane, propane and butane. It is transported through pipelines but is extremely bulky. A high-pressure gas pipeline can transport in a day only about one-fifth of the energy that can be transported through an oil pipeline. 

• The very concept of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) is a response to the inefficiency of natural gas pipelines and the technical and economic problems of running pipelines over long distances. 

• If natural gas is cooled at minus 160.5° C, it becomes liquid and more compact, occupying just 1/600th of the gaseous volume. This is because most of the heavier hydrocarbons are removed during liquefaction. 

• The cargo that is transported in bulk by sea is predominantly methane (over 80%) - a colourless, odourless, transparent liquid which is non-toxic, non-corrosive and less dense than water. As LNG is highly volatile, specialist operators are involved in its transportation.  

2. India, Pakistan exchange lists of nuclear facilities 

• India and Pakistan have exchanged the list of their nuclear installations and facilities under the Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear installations. 
• This exchange is done on 1st of January every year between the two neighbouring countries that bars them from attacking each other’s atomic facilities. 
• This is the 25th consecutive exchange of such list between the two countries, the first one having taken place on 1 January 1992. 
• Agreement on the Prohibition of Attack against Nuclear installations :  It bilateral agreement signed between India and Pakistan that bars them from carrying out any surprise attack (or to assist foreign power to attack) on each other’s nuclear installations and facilities. 
• It was signed on 31st December 1988 and entered into force on 27 January 1991. 
• It was signed by then Indian Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi and his Pakistani counterpart Benazir Bhutto. 
• Under it both countries inform each other about their nuclear installations and facilities that need to be covered under the Agreement on 1 January every year. 

3. Union inks Financing Agreement with World Bank to fund education of minorities 

• The Union Government has signed a Financing Agreement of 50 million dollars with the World Bank for Nai Manzil Scheme- Education and Skills Training for Minorities. 
• Under this agreement, the credit will be facilitated by the International Development Association (IDA), World Bank’s concessionary lending arm. 
• This credit will be in the form of loan which carries a maturity of 25 years, including a 5-year grace period. 
• The loan funds will be used for interventions under this scheme improve the employability and performance of minority youth in the labour market. 
• The total project size is 100 million dollars, out of which 50 million dollars will be available as IDA credit and the remaining balance funding from the Union Budget. 
• About Nai Manzil Scheme : The central scheme is designed to address educational and livelihood needs of minority communities lagging behind in terms of educational attainments. 
• It aims to provide educational intervention by giving the bridge courses to the trainees and getting them Certificates for Class XII and X from distance medium educational system. 
• It seeks to provide trade basis skill training in four courses at the same time of formal education, in field of (i) Manufacturing (ii) Engineering (iii) Services (iv) Soft skills. 
• It intends to cover people in between 17 to 35 age group from all minority communities as well as Madrasa students. This scheme will provide new avenues for minorities for continuing higher education and also open up employment opportunities in the organised sector. 

 World Bank DAVA project bags 2015 eASIA award for trade facilitation 

• The Drug Authentication and Verification Application (DAVA) project of the Department of Commerce has won the 2015 eASIA Award under Trade Facilitation category. 
• The award was announced by Asia Pacific Council for Trade Facilitation (APCTF) and Tehran based (Iran) Electronic Business. The eASIA award is administered by AFACT which aims to development and promotion of trade facilitation, electronic business policies and activities in the Asia Pacific region. 
• About DAVA project: DAVA project was launched by Union Government in June 2015. It seeks to create an integrated platform for implementation of the Track and Trace system for exporters and domestic markets of Drugs and Pharmaceuticals. 
• The project aims to cover all the drugs manufactured in India and contribute considerably in enhancing the brand image of our pharmaceutical exporters. 
• It will also provide simpler platform for the regulatory agencies and consumer for establishing drug authentication. 
• Under this project, the DAVA application has been incorporated with value-added features like availability of stocks for a drug in an area/retailers/ wholesalers at a point of time. Using it drugs can easily be identified and recalled due to traceability of stocks which in turn helps in prevention of black marketing which especially arises during epidemics. 
• Presently it has been launched in pilot stage and after its full scale implementation it will help to completely curb out the export of fake or spurious drug from the country.

6. Government to roll out DBT scheme for kerosene from April 1, 2016 

• The Union Government is going to roll out LPG-like Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) scheme for kerosene from 1st April 2016. 
• The scheme in the initial phase will be implemented in selected 26 districts of eight states. 
• These states are Haryana, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Himachal Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab and Rajasthan. 
• Under the scheme People will buy kerosene at market rate (un-subsidised price) but will get subsidy directly in their bank accounts. 
• The cash subsidy paid to users under it will be equivalent to the difference between current Public Distribution System (PDS) price and market rate of kerosene. 
• During the initial phase, kerosene subsidy will be credited to eligible beneficiaries in advance to avoid any inconvenience of payment of un-subsidised price.
• The move will help Government to curtail or reduce subsidy outgo for kerosene which in 2014-15 was about 24,799 crore rupees. 
• It will also help in plugging the leakages in the kerosene subsidy system. 

       1.   Union Government abolishes export duty on iron ore pellets

è The Union Government has abolished export duty on iron ore pellets in order to make the commodity more competitive amid weakening prices due to subdued demand.

è In this regard Central Board of Excise and Custom (CBEC) has issued a notification mentioning that export duty on iron ore pellets has been reduced to zero from 5 per cent.

è This decision will help improve capacity utilisation of pellet plants and give a necessary boost to the sector. Earlier in 2014, Union Government had levied a 5 per cent export duty on iron ore pellets.

è Iron ore pellets are value-added products of leftover material or low-grade iron ore and are mainly used in steel-making industry.

è Reasons for decline in global commodity prices:-  Due to global economic slowdown and decrease in demand followed by increase in supply (production) has attributed to decrease in global commodity prices especially minerals and oil. Steel and its related raw material market is also facing a tough time on account of subdued demand and high production which in turn is adversely impacting the prices. Besides fall in demand in China, world’s largest metal consumer also has attributed to falling in commodity prices.

2.   Sri Lanka, Pakistan agree to expand FTA

è Sri Lanka and Pakistan have agreed to expand their bilateral free trade agreement (FTA) by inclusion of services and investment.

è Statement in this regard was made by Pakistan Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif during his official visit to Sri Lanka.

è The expansion of FTA would help companies of the two nations to form joint ventures (JV) for exports to other nations.

è Sri Lank-Pakistan Free Trade Agreement (FTA):- The FTA between Sri Lanka and Pakistan came into effect in June 2005. Since the Pakistan’s exports to Sri Lanka were to the tune of 150 million dollars. Sri Lanka’s exports to Pakistan were valued at about 52 million dollars, accounting for around 70 per cent of the country’s total exports to Pakistan.

è 8 MoUs signed Both countries also signed 8 agreements in the fields of science and technology, education, agriculture, healthcare, tourism, cultural exchanges, sporting contacts, people-to-people contacts and combating money laundering and terror financing.

è Defence Deal:- Pakistan also sealed a landmark defence deal to sell JF-17 Thunder fighter jets to Sri Lanka. Under this deal Pakistan will sell 8 JF-17 Thunder fighter jets which are already part of Pakistan Air Force (PAF).

3.   Andhra Bank launches IMPS for money transfer

è Andhra Bank has launched Immediate Payment Service (IMPS) at all its branches across the country to provide inter-bank electronic fund transfer service.

è The customer-friendly service was launched by Andhra Bank in association with the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI).

è It also supports real time instant fund transfer system for inter-bank remittances. However the maximum caps of transaction of remittances will 2 lakh rupees and the charges will be at the rate of Rs.5 per transaction.

è Immediate Payment Service (IMPS):-  IMPS is a multi-channel, multi-dimensional inter-bank electronic fund transfer platform that allows customers to transfer money electronically within fraction of seconds with all the standards and integrity maintained for security. It is round-the-clock real time instant fund transfer system which is not possible in National Electronic Funds Transfer (NEFT) system. It also safest and most economical electronic fund transfer service.

4.   ApurviChandela set world record in 10m air rifle at Swedish Cup Grand Prix  

è Indian ace shooter Apurvi Chandela has set a new world record in the women’s 10 metre air rifle event at the 2015 Swedish Cup Grand Prix.

è She set the new record after winning gold medal in the women’s 10 metre air rifle event shooting score of 211.2.

è Her winning score has surpassed previous world record of 211 score set by Chinese Olympic gold medallist Yi Siling.

è In the Swedish Cup Grand Prix, silver and bronze went to Swedish shooters Astrid Steffensen and Stine Nielsen respectively. Chandela has already qualified for the 2016 Rio Olympics. She won an Olympic quota place for India after winning a bronze in the ISSF World Cup in Changwon, Korea in April 2015.

è Earlier in December 2015 Chandela had won the gold in the National Championships representing Rajasthan.

5.   Union Cabinet gives nod to MoU with Bangladesh for operation of traditional haats:-

è The Union cabinet has given its ex-post-facto approval to Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Bangladesh for Mode of Operation of Border haats on India-Bangladesh Border signed in 2010.

è The MoU also seeks to establish new Border Haats along the border after identification of suitable locations in consultation with Bangladesh Government and concerned State Governments.

è What are Border Haats? The Border Haats in Indian Language means Rural Market. It aims at promoting the well-being of the people dwelling in remote areas across the borders of two countries. It seeks to establish traditional system of marketing the local produce thorough local markets in local currency or according to barter basis.

è Though the trade carried in this informal market is not significant in terms of percentage of bilateral trade, but these local measures help to improve economic well-being of marginalised sections of society.

è Background:-  Border haats along the border of two countries are established under a MoU signed for Border Trade and Border Haats in October 2010. As per the rules and guidelines of this MoU, traders in communities of both India and Bangladesh can trade their local produce without any duty. It allowed to trade people living in border areas in specified products in accordance with the regulations agreed and notified by both Governments.

è Presently 4 Border Haats are already operational along India-Bangladesh border. They are (i) Kalaichar (Meghalaya). (ii) Balat (Meghalaya). (iii) Kamlasagar (Tripura) (iv) Srinagar (Tripura).

è In addition, both Governments also have agreed to further establish 2 Border Haats in Tripura and 4 Border Haats in Meghalaya along the border.

6.   Filippo Grandi takes charge as UN High Commissioner for Refugees

è Senior United Nations (UN) official Filippo Grandi from Italy has taken the charge as new UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR). He succeeds Antonio Guterres of Portugal who has retired after heading the Refugee Agency for one decade.

è He will have tenure of five years.

è About Filippo Grandi:- He has worked in international affairs for over 30 years as an Italian diplomat, of which 27 years he spent with the United Nations. He started his career in the office of UNHCR in 1988 and had represented UN in refugee and political affairs in the Middle East, Africa and Asia. He also had served as head of the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA). He had worked prior to that for the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA) as Deputy Special Representative.

è About United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) : The UNHCR is a United Nations agency mandated to protect and support refugees. It is a member of the United Nations Development Group.

è Established: December 14, 1950. Headquarters: Geneva, Switzerland.

è Initially it was established to help people displaced by World War II. But later it became the principal agency that has helped displaced persons all over world.

è Mission: Safeguard the political and human rights as well as well-being of refugees. Seek lasting solutions to the plights of refugees.

7.   Union Cabinet approves Stand Up India Scheme for women and SC/ST

è The Union Cabinet has approved the Stand Up India Scheme to promote entrepreneurship among Scheduled Caste/Scheduled Tribes (SC/ST) and Women entrepreneurs.

è The Scheme seeks to facilitate at least two such projects on an average one for each category of entrepreneur per bank branch.

è The Stand-up India is component of Start-up India, Stand up India slogan anchored by Department of Financial Services (DFS) to encourage greenfield enterprises by Women and SC/ST entrepreneurs.

è Features of Stand Up India Scheme:-  It will refinance window through Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) with an initial amount 10,000 crore rupees.

è Under it, a credit guarantee mechanism would be created through the National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company (NCGTC). It will be the operating agency for the loan. It will provide handholding support to the borrowers at both pre loan stage and during operations stage.

è It would seek to increase their familiarity with factoring services, e-market places and registration with online platforms as well as sessions on best practices and problem solving.

è It would provide women and SC/ST entrepreneurs bank loans repayable up to 7 years. It would be between 10 lakh to 1 crore rupees for greenfield enterprises in the non-farm sector.

è The overall intent is to leverage the institutional credit structure to reach out to this under-served population. For this margin money of the composite loan will be up to 25%. It is expected that this scheme would benefit at-least 2.5 lakh borrowers and expected date of reaching the target of approvals is 36 months from the launch of the Scheme.

è Background:- Prime Minister in his Independence Day address to the nation on 15th August, 2015 had announced the “Start-up India, Stand up India” initiative.

8.   Noted Gujarati writer Labshankar Thakar passes away

è Noted Gujarati writer and poet LabhshankarThakar passed away after prolonged illness in Ahmedabad. He was 80. He was modernist author of Gujarati literature with influence of existentialism challenging traditional literature styles.

è About LabshankarThakarThakar was born on 14 January 1935 in Sedla village near Surendranagar in Gujarat. He was popularly known by his penname Punarvasu and Vaidya Punarvasu. Apart from being Gujarati poet, playwright and story writer he was also an Ayurvedic Practitioner.

è Poetry Collection: Some of his poems are VahiJatiPachhalRamyaGhosha (1965), ManasniVaat (1968), Mara NamneDarwaje (1972), Boom KagalmaKora (1974), Pravahan (1986), Kalagranthi (1987). Plays: AsatyakumarEkagraniDharpakad, Make Believe (1967), Mari JawaniMaza (1973), Bathtub ma Machhali (1982) etc. Other Work: His novels are Akasmat (1968) and Kon? (1968). His works of criticism is MalelaJeevniSamiksha and Inner Life (1969). Ek Minute (1986) and KshanaTatkshana (1989) are his collected works of journalism. Maari Ba (1989) is a biographical work about his mother. He also wrote several books on Ayurveda and also had published several magazines including Kriti and Unmoolan. Awards and Honours: SahityaAkadami Award (1991) for his poetry- TolanAawazGhunghat, SahityaGauravPuraskar (2002) of Gujarati SahityaParishad, Kumar Chandrak (1962), NarmadChandrak and RanjitramSuvarnaChandrak (1981).

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9.    Union Cabinet gives nod to Civil Aviation MoU between India and Singapore

è The Union Cabinet has given its ex-post facto approval for signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Singapore on cooperation in the field of civil aviation.

è The MoU was signed in November 2015 between Airports Authority of India (AAI) on behalf of Union Government and Singapore Cooperation Enterprise (SCE) on behalf of Government of Singapore) during Prime Minister’s visit to Singapore.

è Key facts:- Objective of MoU is to establish mutual cooperation in the field of civil aviation between both countries.

è It will cover airports of Jaipur and Ahmedabad to begin with cooperation and later will be extended to other airports with mutual consent.

è This include collaboration in Civil Aviation Sector between both countries will be in the areas of (i) Master-planning and design (ii) Commercial development (iii) Traffic development Training and development (iv) Service quality improvement (v) Maintenance, repair and overhaul (vi) Cargo handling and Management (vii) Operation and management.

10.                Union Government decides to directly shift from BS-IV to BS-VI Emission norms in 2020

è Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highways has decided to implement the stricter emission norms of Bharat Stage (BS) VI from 1st April 2020 in a bid to curb vehicular pollution.

è The Government will directly switch over to BS-VI emission norms from the present BS-IV emission norms and completely skip BS-V emission norms altogether.

è Decision in this regard was taken at an inter-ministerial meeting chaired by Unon Road Transport and Highways Minister NitinGadkari and was attended by Oil Minister DharmendraPradhan, Heavy Industries Minister AnantGeete and Environment Minister PrakashJavadekar.

è Supreme Court Order:- Earlier Supreme Court asked the Union Government to implement BS-VI emission norms earlier than April 2021 deadline amid concerns on rising air pollution in the country.

è Earlier Deadlines: The Auto Fuel Policy 2003 had recommended implementation of BS-VI norms by 2024. Earlier in the draft notification issued by the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had advanced dates for implementation of BS-V norms to 2019 and BS-VI norms to 2021.

è Present scenario: Presently BS-IV auto fuels are being supplied in whole of northern India covering states like Punjab, Haryana, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Delhi, parts of Rajasthan and western Uttar Pradesh. While rest of the country is being supplied has BS-III grade fuel.

è The deadline implementation for BS-IV auto fuels is 2017 across the country.

11.                Union Cabinet approves creation of a Credit Guarantee Fund for MUDRA loans

è The Union Cabinet has approved creation of a Credit Guarantee Fund (CGF) for Micro Units Development Refinance Agency (MUDRA) loans.

è The CGF is expected to guarantee more than 1,00,000 crore rupees worth of loans to micro and small units in the first instance.

è Features of scheme:-  Credit Guarantee Fund for MUDRA Units (CGFMU) will guarantee loans sanctioned under Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana(PMMY) to reduce the credit risk to Banks and other financial intermediaries who are Member Lending Institutions (MLIs).

è National Credit Guarantee Trustee Company NCGTC Ltd  will manage  and  operate  various  credit  guarantee  funds and shall  be  the  Trustee  of  the NCFTC . It will be a wholly-owned  company  of  Union Government  and shall be constituted  under  the  Companies  Act,  1956 (2013).

è Under this scheme the guarantee  would  be  provided  on  portfolio  basis  to  a  maximum  extent of  50 per cent  of  amount  in  Default  in  the MUDRA (SIDBI) Bank.

è The Cabinet also gave its nod for converting MUDRA Ltd. into MUDRA Small Industries Development Bank of India (SIDBI) Bank, a wholly owned subsidiary of SIDBI.

è The MUDRA (SIDBI) Bank will undertake refinance operations and provide support services with focus on portal management and also data analysis etc.

è Background:-  In the Union Budget  speech for 2015-16, Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had proposed to set up MUDRA Bank and CGF with  a refinance corpus of 20,000 crore rupees and a corpus of 3,000 crore  rupees respectively.

è MUDRA Ltd. was set up as a corporate subsidiary of SIDBI in March 2015 prior to the launch of the Pradhan Mantri MUDRA Yojana (PMMY) in April 2015.

12.                ICICI Bank partners with FINO PayTech for payments bank space

è India’s largest private sector lender ICICI Bank has partnered with FINO PayTech to foray into the payments bank space.

è With this partnership, ICICI Bank joins some of the leading lenders of the country that have partnered with payments banks. For example, Kotak Mahindra Bank (KMB) and State Bank of India (SBI) have picked up stake in payments banks to be floated by Bharti Group and Reliance Industries respectively.

è Key facts:  FINO Paytech along with 10 other entities had received ‘in principle’ licence from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to start a payment bank.

è ICICI Group has purchased about 16 per cent stake in the FINO PayTech making it one of the largest domestic shareholder. The tie-up with ICICI Bank will help FINO to extend services which a payments bank is not allowed to offer. It will also help it to build some banking products and services that they cannot offer on our own.

è Presently, RBI regulations allow universal banks to invest up to 30 per cent in payments bank. RBI regulations also mandate 51 per cent of the equity of the payments bank should be with domestic entities. In case of FINO PayTech it has about 70 per cent stake is with foreign entities. Before starting payments bank business it is going to raise capital which will help bring down foreign shareholding within prescribed limit.

13.                ASW corvette INS Kadmatt commissioned in Visakhapatnam

è Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) corvette INS Kadmatt has been commission in the Indian Navy by Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R K Dhowan at naval dockyard in Visakhapatnam.

è It is the second ship of Project 28 (P28) class ASW corvettes and is the latest ship after Shivalik class, Kolkata class and INS Kamorta.

è About INS Kadmatt:- It is about 90 per cent indigenously designed by the Directorate of Naval Design (DND) and constructed by M/s Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd.

è The stealth anti-submarine warfare has been named after one of the large islands amongst the group of islands in Lakshadweep off the west coast of India.

è It is equipped to fight in Nuclear, Biological and Chemical (NBC) warfare conditions.

è INS Kadmatt would be an integral part of the Eastern Fleet and help to augment the mobility, reach and flexibility of Indian Navy.

è Its induction also marks yet another milestone in India’s journey towards self-reliance in Defence sector and Make-in-India.

14.                India to grow at 7.8% in year 2016: World Bank Report

è The Global Economic Prospect report published recently by the World Bank (WB) has projected a robust 7.8 per cent growth for the Indian economy in the year 2016.

è In its report bank also has cited strong investor sentiment in India and the positive effect on real incomes of the recent fall in oil prices.

è Key highlights from report:- Forecasted growth for India: It will grow at a 7.9 per cent growth in the next two years 2017 and 2018.

è India’s stock markets and currency have been largely resilient during bouts of volatility in global financial markets over the past year.

è However, there are some downside risks to India’s growth that are mostly domestic. The progress on land reforms can lead to investment delays. Failure to pass the Goods and Services Tax (GST) bill by Parliament may hamper the Indian government’s ability to increase the infrastructure spending.

è Among BRICS nations: China will grow at 6.7 per cent in the year 2016 and 6.5 per cent each in next two years 2017 and 2018. Brazil and Russia are expected to remain in recession during the year 2016 among the major developing economies.

è South Asia Region: It has been projected to be a bright spot in the emerging and developing economies, with growth rate up to 7.3 per cent in 2016. This region would not be affected by slowdown in China as it has smaller trade links with China than other regions.

è Being net importer of oil it will be also benefited from lower global energy (oil) prices.

15.                India-France military exercise Shakti-2016 begins

è India and France have started their eight-day counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency bilateral military exercise Shakti-2016 in Rajasthan.

è In this bilateral exercise, French contingent comprising 56 personnel of 35th Infantry Regiment of 7th Armoured Brigade are participating.

è Indian side is being represented by the 2nd Battalion of Garhwal Rifles which is part of the Sapta Shakti Command.

è Key facts: Shakti-2016 joint exercise aims at conducting infantry tactical operations, combating conditioning in a counter-terrorism environment under the United Nations mandate.

è It will culminate the tactical exercise encompassing clearing of pockets of terrorists in rural and urban environment. The exercise will include firing, tactical operations, combat conditioning, heli-borne operations among others.

è This military exercise is an important step for both the armies to train together and gain from each other’s rich operational experience. It will also facilitate sharing of each other’s military experiences as both countries have deployed troops in counter-insurgency and counter-terrorist operations.

16.                Devender Kumar Sikri appointed as Chairman of CCI

è The Union Government has appointed former IAS Devender Kumar Sikri as Chairman of Competition Commission of India (CCI). He will succeed Ashok Chawla whose tenure ended as the Chairman of CCI.

è He will have tenure of two and half years i.e. till he attains the age of 65 years.

è About Competition Commission of India:-  The CCI was established to eliminate practices that adversely affect competition in different industries and protect interests of consumers and ensure freedom of trade.

è It is statutory body established under The Competition Act of 2002. It was established in 2003 and became fully functional in 2009.

è Its predecessor was the MRTPC (Monopolies and Restrictive Trade Practices Commission) which was functional prior to 1991 Economic Reforms.

è The CCI acts as a quasi-judicial body which gives opinions to statutory authorities and also deals with other cases.

17.                Government decides to merge Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs with MEA

è The Union Government has decided to merge Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs (MOIA) with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

è This decision has been taken to avoid duplication of work and to improve efficiency in line with Union Government’s broad principle of minimum government, maximum governance.

è The MOIA was established in May 2004 as the Ministry of Non-Resident Indians’ Affairs (MNRIA). However it was renamed Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs in September 2004.

è The primary task of the MOIA was to connect the Indian diaspora with its motherland by initiating various programmes.

è It also focused on developing networks with and amongst the overseas Indians with the intent of building partnership with the diaspora.

è The merger is expected to increase efficiency in MEA’s emergency work abroad especially in various crisis-prone countries in West Asia. It would also increase MEA staff strength.

18.                Union Government launches River Information System

è India’s first River Information System (RIS) was launched by Union Government to facilitate safe and accurate inland waterway navigation.

è It has been launched in phases and the first phase will cover 145-km stretch of National Waterways 1 (Phase I- Haldia to Farakka) on the Ganges River.

è Inland Waterway Authority of India (IWAI), a statutory body under the aegis of Union Ministry of Shipping is implementing the RIS in India.

è About River Information Services (RIS): RIS are combination of modern tracking equipment comprising of hardware and software designed to optimize transport and traffic processes in inland water navigation.

è The system has capability to enhance swift electronic data transfer between mobile vessels and Base stations (on shore) through advance and real-time exchange of information.

è The main aim of the system is to streamline the exchange of information via Very high frequency (VHF) wireless communication between waterway operators and users.

è This system would facilitate: (i) Enhancement of inland navigation safety in ports and rivers.  (ii) Better use of the inland waterways.  (iii) Environmental protection.

è It enables safe and efficient inland water transport by avoiding risks such as (i) Ship-to-Ship collisions. (ii) Ship-Bridge collisions. (iii) Groundings.

è This system has been successfully implemented and is in operation in countries like the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, China and US.

è The RIS system will be later extended upto Varanasi in two more phases and in Phase-II, it will cover stretch from Farakka to Patna (410 Km.)

19.                Government reappoints Urjit Patel as Deputy Governor of RBI for a second term

è The Union Government has reappointed DrUrjit Patel as Deputy Governor of Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a second three-year term. As Deputy Governor of RBI, Dr Patel looks after Monetary Policy, Economic Policy Research, Deposit Insurance, Statistics and Information Management and Right to Information etc.

è For first time, he was appointed as the Deputy Governor of RBI in January 2013 for three year term. He had headed committee to review the monetary policy framework and had proposed monetary policy committee to set interest rates (currently solely decided by the RBI governor). It also had recommended targeting consumer inflation to control volatile prices by shifting the current focus away from wholesale prices.

è Deputy Governors of RBI: The RBI has four Deputy Governors. Two are from outside, a commercial banker and an economist and two others are promoted from within its ranks.

è Deputy Governor of RBI can be appointed for a period of five years or till the age of 62, whichever is earlier.

è Current other three Deputy Governors of RBI are:R. Khan, S.S. Mundra and R. Gandhi.

20.                24th edition of New Delhi World Book Fair begins

è  The theme of fair is “Vivid Bharat – Diverse India” based on Cultural Heritage of India.

è China has been accorded the Guest of Honour Country status for this edition of fair. The message of India-China partnership for the New Delhi Book Fair 2016 is “Renaissance of Civilizations- Understanding through exchanges“.

è Key facts: The nine-day event has been organised by National Book Trust (NBT), an apex body of the under the Union HRD Ministry and India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) is the Co-organizer.

è Over 1,500 exhibitors from all over India and 30 countries are participating in this year’s fair along with International agencies like WHO and UNESCO. Over 1,000 titles in major Indian languages on language, philosophy and literature from ancient to contemporary times are on display Besides, the fair is also hosting many publishing and literary conferences, emerging new voices in Indian writing as well as special programmes for children and youth.

è About New Delhi World Book Fair: The New Delhi Book Fair is India’s oldest book fair organized annually at Pragati Maidan, New Delhi. The 1st Delhi Book Fair Was held in March 1972 and was inaugurated by then President of India VV Giri.

21.                Sania Mirza, Martina Hingis win 2016 WTA Brisbane International Tennis trophy January 9, 20161

è Key facts: It was sixth title in a row of Indo-Swiss pair after the US Open, Guangzhou, Wuhan, Beijing and WTA Finals in the women’s doubles category. With this win, they have recorded 26-match winning streak together. The last doubles team to win more than 25 consecutive matches was Gigi Fernandez (Puerto Rico) and Natasha Zvereva (Belarus) who had notched up 28 straight victories in 1994. Women’s Singles Title Victoria Azarenka (Belarus) has won the 2016 WTA Brisbane International tennis trophy in the Women’s Singles Category. In the final match she defeated Angelique Kerber of Germany by 6–3, 6–1 score.

22.                President promulgates Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Ordinance, 2016

è President Pranab Mukherjee has promulgated the Enemy Property (Amendment and Validation) Ordinance, 2016 to make amendments to the Enemy Property Act, 1968.

è The Ordinance was promulgated by President as per provisions of Article 123 of Constitution of India that gives him legislative powers in consultation with Council of Union Ministers.

è The proposed amendments in the parent Act seeks to deal with the loopholes in the existing law.

è Proposed Amendments are:  Once an enemy property is vested to the Custodian it shall continue to be vested in him. It shall not revert back to enemy subject or enemy firm due to reasons such as death of subject or firm ceased to function.

è The law of succession does not apply to enemy property. Henceforth there cannot be transfer of any property vested in the custodian by an enemy till it is disposed of in accordance with the provisions of the Act.

è Enemy properties: In the wake of the two India-Pakistan wars in 1965 and 1971, there was migration of people from India to Pakistan. The properties and companies of such migrated persons (acquired Pakistani nationality) were confiscated by Union Government under the Defence of India Rules framed under Defence of India Act. These enemy properties were vested in the Custodian of Enemy Property for India by the Union Government.

è In the Tashkent Declaration (signed in 1966), a clause was included to discuss the return of the assets and property taken over by either side in connection with the conflict. However, Pakistan Government had disposed of all such enemy properties in their country in 1971.

è Enemy Property Act, 1968: The act provided for the continuous vesting of enemy property in the custodian. The possession of enemy properties spread across many states in the country vest with the Union Government through the Custodian of Enemy Property for India.

23.                Governor’s rule imposed in Jammu and Kashmir

è Governor’s rule has been imposed in the state of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) for sixth time as the process of formation new government following the death of Chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed is taking some time.

è It was imposed after President Pranab Mukherjee accepted the recommendations forwarded by Union Home Ministry on the basis of a recommendation from J&K Governor NN Vohra.

è Governor’s Rule in Jammu & Kashmir:  In case of failure of constitutional machinery in any other state of India, the President’s Rule is imposed under Article 356 of the Constitution. But in case of J&K, as per Section 92 of state Constitution, the Governor’s Rule can be imposed for a period of six months in the state.

è Thus, there is little practical difference between the two provisions. Governor’s Rule can be imposed only after the consent of the President of India in case of failure of constitutional machinery.

è During the Governors rule, State Assembly is either suspended or dissolved and the state completely comes under direct Central rule.

è If the Constitutional machinery in the state is not restored before the expiry of this six month period, the provisions of Article 356 of the Constitution of India are extended to J&K and the President’s rule is imposed in the State.

24.                Poet BalkrishnaGarg conferred with 2015 Harikrishna Devsare Baalsahitya Award

è Veteran poet Balkrishna Garg was honoured with the second edition of Harikrishna Devsare Baalsahitya Award 2015 for his collection of poems for children titled ‘Baal Geet’. He was conferred with the award by Sahitya Akademi President Vishwanath Prasad Tiwari and National Book Trust Chairman Baldeo Bhai Sharma.

è The award was instituted in 2014 in the memory of Harikrishna Devsare, a renowned Hindi writer known for his work in the field of children’s literature. The award comprised cash prize of Rs 75,000, a shawl and a citation.

è Harikrishna Devsare was one of the foremost writers of Hindi children’s literature and had devoted his entire life in creating children’s literature in Hindi. He died in 2013.

25.                Sailesh appointed as Registrar General and Census Commissioner

è Senior IAS officer Sailesh has been appointed as Registrar General and Census Commissioner  (RGCC) of India.

è His appointment was confirmed by Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) headed by Prime Minister NarendraModi.

è He has been appointed for a period till July 28, 2017 and shall succeed C Chandramouli after he completed his tenure.

è About Registrar General and Census Commissioner of India:- The post of the RGCC of India is usually held by a civil servant holding the rank of Joint Secretary to Government of India. It is responsible for conducting the decennial Census. He heads the Census organisation (mentioned in entry 69 of seventh schedule of Constitution) which functions under the aegis of Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

26.                NASA’s Kepler spacecraft finds 100 new alien planets orbiting other stars

è The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA’s) revamped planet-hunting Kepler spacecraft has discovered more than 100 planets orbiting other stars.

è The Kepler spacecraft discovered these alien planets during its second-chance K2 mission by using the transit method.

è Transit method:- The Kepler spacecraft finds the planets by using the transit method. It is detection of the tiny brightness dips caused by the planet after it crosses its host star’s face from spacecraft’s perspective. Transit method technique requires extremely precise pointing of spacecraft.

è Kepler spacecraft:- Kepler was launched in March 2009 and was tasked with determining how commonly, Earth-like planets occur throughout the Milky Way galaxy. Since its launch, the mission has been incredibly successful and has led to finding of more than 1,000 alien planets of which half are exoplanets to be ever discovered.

27.                Telangana becomes first State to make gender education compulsory at graduate level

è Telangana has become the first State in the country to introduce compulsory gender education at the graduate level.

è In this regard, state government has introduced bilingual textbook titled ‘Towards a World of Equals’ on a pilot basis in engineering colleges. These engineering colleges are affiliated to the Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU-Hyderabad).

è Features of gender education textbook:-  Discusses gender in its composite form without limiting itself to crime against women without repeating gender stereotypes. Touches upon complex subjects like male-female relationships and female-centric history.

è Discusses different strands of women’s movements across the world along with political movements of Afro-American, African, Caribbean, minority and Dalit women.

28.                CIRB Hisar becomes second institute to clone buffalo in India

è Scientists at the Central Institute for Research on Buffaloes (CIRB) in Hisar, Haryana have successfully produced a cloned buffalo offspring named ‘Cirb Gaurav’.

è CIRB scientists have achieved this feat under the project entitled- Cloning for conservation and multiplication of superior buffalo germplasm.

è  Key facts: Cirb Gaurav cloned buffalo calf is distinct from the earlier clones produced in India. It has been produced from cells of ventral side of tail of superior bull buffalo. The ventral side of tail was chosen because it is least exposed to sunlight and might have less mutation rate. This part also can be a good choice to produce healthy clones by isolating donor cells.

è With this achievement, CIRB becomes the India’s second and world’s third institute to produce cloned buffalo. Karnal (Haryana) based National Dairy Research Institute (NDRI) was the India’s first institute to produce a cloned calf.

è Cloning: Process of creating genetically identical copies of biological matter. It may include genetically identical copies of genes, cells, tissues or entire organisms.

29.                January 12: National Youth Day

è  In India, January 12 is being observed as National Youth Day. This day marks birth anniversary of social reformer, philosopher and thinker Swami Vivekananda.

è This year it is the 153rd birth anniversary of  Swami Vivekananda.

è Background:- The Union Government in 1984 had declared and decided to observe the birthday of Swami Vivekananda i.e. 12 January as a National Youth Day every year from 1985 onwards.

è Significance of day: It will help to propagate the philosophy and the ideals of Swami Vivekananda for which he lived and worked.  It will also help and act as a great source of inspiration for the Indian Youth.

è About Swami Vivekananda: Swami Vivekananda was born on 12 January 1863 as Narendranath Dutta and died on 4 July 1902. He was chief disciple of the 19th century saint Ramakrishna Paramhamsa and the founder of the Ramakrishna Math and the Ramakrishna Mission. He was one of the most prominent figures of India who introduced Indian philosophies of Vedanta and Yoga to the “Western” World. His inspiring speech given at World’s Religions Parliament held at Chicago in 1893 is famous.

30.                India-Australia Social Security Agreement comes into operation

è India-Australia social security Agreement signed between both countries came into operation.

è This agreement will enable people of both nations to avail retirement benefits in each other’s country and will boost bilateral business linkages.

è Key facts: The social security Agreement will give people more freedom to move between India and Australia as their pension rights are recognised and protected.

è Under the ambit of it, Australian residing in India will be able to claim the Australian Age Pension without having to return to Australia. While, Indian residents living in Australia will have access to Indian retirement pensions.

è It will strengthen India-Australia relationship as 397,000 Indian-born people living in Australia and making substantial contribution.

è Background: The Social Security Agreement was signed in November 2014 during Prime Minister NarendraModi’s official visit to Australia and came into operation on January 1, 2016.

è So far, Australia has inked around 30 international social security agreements with other countries to support people living and working in more than one country. Some of the countries are Austria, Belgium, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland and the US.

31.                Government constitutes Arvind Panagariya committee to fast-track bullet train project

è Union Government has constituted a committee to fast track the Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor, meant for connecting two cities with bullet trains.

è The committee is tasked to interact with the Japanese counterpart for taking further steps in implementation of Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor.

è Members: The committee will be headed by ArvindPanagariya, vice-chairman of the NITI Aayog. It will also include Railway Board chairman, foreign secretary and secretary (industrial policy) and secretary in the department of expenditure as its members.

è Mumbai-Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Corridor: It will be 500km long and will be connecting both trains at the cost of the project will be 98,000 crore rupees. 

è Japan will invest 78, 000 crore rupees making it largest foreign investment in railway sector of India.

è Background:- Recently, Union Cabinet had had given its nod to bullet train project making it first of its king bullet train project with the help of Japan for funds and technology. Cabinet approval was based on the recommendations of a committee headed by Panagariya which had favoured Japan over China due to the low-cost funding also commitment for technology transfer and local manufacturing for a specified period.

32.                DAC approves major changes in Defence Procurement Procedure

è  The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Union Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has approved major changes in the new Defence Procurement Procedure (DDP) 2016.

è These changes were made in DPP 2016 to streamline defence acquisitions and give a big impetus to indigenisation of Defence sector through the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

è Some of the changes were based on recommendations of the expert committee headed by former Home Secretary Dhirendra Singh.

è Major Changes are Addition of new category to promote domestic manufacturing, including government funding. The funding will be mainly in technology development for Research & Development (R&D) and recognition of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME).

è New category Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured (IDDM) platforms have been added and it will be the priority route for procurements.

è Under IDDM, there will be two sub-categories one with mandatory 40 percent domestic content for a domestic design. Other will be for mandating 60 percent local content if the design is not domestic. Under it, eligible domestic companies will have majority Indian control and operated by Indian nationals.

è Government will fund private R&D for building a defence technology base in the country for which various norms have been stipulated. Under it companies are eligible for up to 90 percent funding.

è Contentious issue of offsets has been amended from the current 300 crore rupees to 2000 crore rupees to give flexibility for foreign companies. Currently, offset clause mandates that a foreign company should invest 30 percent of the contract value back into the country with a view to bring in technology.

33.                SC stays Centre’s notification lifting ban on Jallikattu

è The Supreme Court has stayed the Union Government’s notification lifting ban on traditional bull taming sport Jallikattu during the festival of Pongal in Tamil Nadu.

è In this regard the apex court rejected the plea of Union Ministry of Environment and Forests (MoEF) and Tamil Nadu Government.

è Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI):-

è Background:- Earlier on 8th January 2016, MoEF had lifted the four-year-old ban on holding of Jallikattu ahead of the Pongal festival along with Bullock cart races in Maharashtra. This notification allowed the exhibition or training of bulls and some other animals, as performing animals by following the traditional customs as a part of culture. It also had added a few guidelines to regulate these sports involving animals as performing animals. However, the issued notification was against the Supreme Court’s 2014 ruling which had completely banned use of bulls for Jallikattu (also bull fighting) events or bullock-cart races across the country.

è The ban was imposed by SC as it violated provisions of The Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960; fundamental duty Article 51A (g): compassion towards animal; Article 21 (Right to Life), which prohibits any disturbance to the environment, including animals as it is considered essential for human life.

è About Jallikattu:- Jallikattu is a bull taming sport played in Tamil Nadu on Mattu Pongal day as a part of Pongal celebrations i.e. harvest festival.

è It is one of the oldest living ancient tradition practiced in the modern era. Jallikattu has been derived from the words ‘calli’ (coins) and ‘kattu’ (tie), which means a bundle of coins is tied to the bull’s horns.

è In Sangam literature it is called ‘Yeruthazhuvuthal’ (means to embrace bulls). Tradition: In older times it was popular amongst warriors during the Tamil classical period. The bull tamer sought to remove this bundle from the animal’s head to win gold or silver coins to be called ‘brave’ and ‘valourous’. All castes participate in the event and majority of jallikattu bulls belong to the pulikulam breed of cattle.

34.                IMD changes language in weather forecasting

è  The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has changed the languages and also re-defined terms that are not scientifically precise in weather forecasting.

è In this regard, IMD has issued official notification to do away with outdated language to avoid communication gap with the civil administration so they can be more realistic in case of upcoming weather events.

è IMD has reviewed the terminology and factors determining each of these terms based on supporting observational data. Following are the changes

è  Classification all-India rainfall into five categories: Normal: ± 10 per cent of the long period average (lpa). Below normal: Rainfall lower than 10 per cent below average of the lpa. Above normal: Rainfall greater than 10 per cent above average of the lpa. Deficient year: Rainfall deficit between 10 and 20 per cent up to 40 per cent of India’s spatial area. Large deficient year: Rainfall deficit of over 10 per cent across more than 40 per cent of India’s area.

è Criteria to classify seasonal rainfall:-  The rules have been changed to classify seasonal rainfall. IMD has introduced 6 new categories replacing old four rainfall categories (excess, normal, deficient and scanty). New categories are Large excess: 60 per cent and above. Excess: between 20 per cent and 59 per cent. Normal: minus 19 per cent to plus 19 per cent; Deficient: minus 20 per cent to minus 59 per cent. Large deficient: below 60 per cent No Rain: 0 per cent.

è IMD also has standardized key terms Heat wave: Temperatures greater than 4.50C above usual temperatures for the region. Severe heat wave: Temperatures greater than or equal to 47 degree C. Cold wave: Temperatures less than 4.50C above usual temperatures for the region. Severe cold wave: Minimum temperature is 20C or lower.

35.                President gives assent to the Sugar Cess (Amendment) Bill, 2015

è President Pranab Mukherjee has given assent to the Sugar Cess (Amendment) Bill, 2015 to raise the ceiling of a cess as an excise duty on the production of sugar.

è The bill was first passed by LokSabha after it was declared a money bill.

è President gave his assent as per provisions of Article 111 of Constitution after the bill was not returned by the RajyaSabha to the LokSabha within 14 days of its consideration as per constitutional provisions.

è Key facts:- The amendment Bill seeks to amend the The Sugar Cess Act, 1982 which provides legal provision for the imposition of a cess as an excise duty on the production of sugar.

è The Bill proposes to increase this ceiling of sugar to Rs 200 per quintal from existing Rs 25 per quintal specified in the principal Act.

è The principal Act empowers central government to fix the rate of sugar cess from time to time.

è Implications of hike in sugar cess:- It would lead to increase in the accruals to the Sugar Development Fund (SDF) which in turn would facilitate rehabilitation and modernisation of sugar mills and thereby helping cane growers.

è In present scenario, it will help in revival of stagnant sugar economy by helping cash-starved mills and sugarcane growers.

36.                BSNL launches 4G services in Chandigarh

è State owed telecom service provider Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL) has launched the high speed 4G (Fourth Generation) telecom services at Chandigarh in Punjab circle .

è With this launch, BSNL became fifth telecom service provider in India to launch 4G service after Airtel(1st), Aircel (2nd), Vodafone (3rd) and Reliance Jio (4th).

è Key facts BSNL 4G network will be able to provide high speed data upto 100 Mbps. Its customers will be able to download large files of the order of 1 GB within few seconds which at present takes hours on current 2G/3G networks.

è BSNL will also provide 4G services to government agencies for video camera surveillance, traffic management solutions and home- land security service in India. Presently, BSNL has 4G spectrum across India except in states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu and Kolkata.

è To offer high speed services to its customers it has also entered into an agreement with Reliance Jio, which holds pan-India 4G airwaves in 2300 MHz band across all 22 telecom circles in India.

è For more details click here: 4G Technology

37.                EPFO wins National Award on e-Governance for UAN

è  The Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) has won the National Award on e-Governance 2015-16 for launching the Universal Account Number (UAN).

è EPFO has won the gold award in this edition of awards in the ‘innovative use of technology in e-governance’ category and will get a cash prize of 2 lakh rupees.

è The award will be bestowed upon EPFO by the Union Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions in the 19th National Conference on e-governance to be held in Nagpur.

è Universal Account Number (UAN) : The roadmap for implementing the UAN programme has been prepared by Centre for Development of Advanced Computing (C-DAC). Purpose: Facilitates workers in organized sector to transfer their provident fund deposits while switching jobs anywhere in India easily. The UAN would be one account number which would be allotted to a subscriber for various schemes run by the EPFO for his or her entire service period with different employers. Working: Under it active employees in organized sector are provided with universal number which can be linked to various provident fund account numbers provided to them after switching jobs by different organisations. Thus, a single account number can be used throughout workers’ employments with various organisations. Benefit: UAN will help to reduce the workload of the EPFO to a great extent as it receives over 12 lakh claims for transfer of PF account on changing of jobs by its subscribers.

è About Employee Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO):-  EPFO is a statutory body of Union Government that comes under the aegis of Ministry of Labour and Employment. Headquarters: New Delhi. Functions: Administers a compulsory contributory Provident Fund Scheme (1952), Pension Scheme (1995) and Insurance Scheme (1976). It is one of the largest social security organisations in India in terms volume of financial transactions undertaken and number of covered beneficiaries.

38.                Union Government inaugurates Second Liquid Chemical Berth of Mumbai Port Trust

è Union Government has inaugurated Second Liquid Chemical Berth of Mumbai Port Trust (MbPT) at Pir Pau, Mumbai. The facility was inaugurated by Union Shipping Minister NitinGadkari.

è Facts about Second Liquid Chemical Berth:-  The berth is a modern state- of -art facility built at an expense of 127 crore rupees. It is equipped with Quick Release Mooring Hooks ( QRMHs) and also with 4 mooring dolphin. It is designed to handle 55000 DWT (deadweight tonnes) vessels carrying liquid bulk chemicals and POL (Petroleum, Oil, & Lubricants) products. It has been designed keep in view the safety standards conforming to the Oil Industry Safety Directorate (OISD) norms. Commissioning of this facility will increase existing cargo handling capacity of the Port by 2.5 MMT (Million Metric Tonnes) per annum. It will help in reducing the cost for importers with faster turnaround of ships carrying big parcel size.

39.                 Kerala becomes first state to achieve 100% primary education

è Kerala has become the first Indian state to achieve 100 per cent primary education. Declaration to this effect was made by the Vice President Hamid Ansari during his speech at special ceremony organised at Thiruvananthapuram.

è Kerala state was able to achieve 100 per cent primary education through its flagship primary education equivalency drive Athulyam Scheme.

è About Athulyam Scheme:- The programme was meant to provide primary school education to people aged between 15 and 50. It was launched in March 2013 and was carried out in two phases.

è The state level literacy mission aimed at educating those who had been unable to complete their primary education up to fourth standard.

è The mission mainly focused on deprived sections viz. the scheduled caste, scheduled tribe, physically, financially weak and mentally disabled among others.

è The second stage of the scheme was Mission 676 that also aimed at targeting those who had dropped out of the formal education process.

è Prior Athulyam Scheme, Kerala state government had launched fourth standard equivalency programme in 2000 in association with local bodies. Under this programme Kannur district of state became the first district to achieve 100 per cent primary education in the country in 2001.

40.                Lt Gen JFR Jacob, 1971 India-Pakistan war hero passes away

è Jacob-Farj-Rafael “JFR” Jacob (Retired Lieutenant General), a key architect in India’s victory in 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War passed away in New Delhi.  He was 92.

è Jacob (then a Major General) is best known for his role in India’s victory in the Indo-Pakistan war of 1971 and the liberation of Bangladesh.

è About Jacob-Farj-Rafael “JFR” Jacob JFR Jacob was born in 1923 in Calcutta (now Kolkata) in then Bengal Presidency of British India. During 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War, he had served as the Chief of Staff of the Indian Army’s Eastern Command during the war. During his 36-year career in the army, he also had fought in World War II and the Indo-Pakistan War of 1965. He retired in 1978. He had served as Governor of Goa (April 199 to November 1999) and Punjab (1999 to 2003).

è Books: Surrender at Dacca: Birth of a Nation, An Odyssey in War and Peace: An Autobiography Lt Gen. J.F.R. Jacob.

è Awards and Honours: Commendation of Merit, Param Vishisht Seva Medal.

41.                Union Cabinet approves Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana

è The Union Cabinet has approved Pradhan Mantri Fasal BimaYojana, a new crop insurance scheme to boost farming sector in the country.

è It is farmers’ welfare scheme that aims to reduce the premium burden on farmers and ensure early settlement of crop assurance claim for the full insured sum.

è Highlights of Scheme:-  Uniform premium: Farmers will pay uniform premium of 2 per cent for all Kharif crops and 1.5 percent for all Rabi crops. In case of annual horticultural and commercial crops, farmers will pay 5 per cent premium. These premium rates are very low. Government will pay balance premium to provide full insured amount to the farmers against crop loss on account of natural calamities.

è Government subsidy: There will be no upper limit subsidy given by Government even if balance premium is 90 percent.

è Capping the Premium: The provision of capping the premium rate has been removed and farmers will get claim against full sum insured without any reduction. It was removed as it resulted in low claims being paid to farmers and was mainly done to limit Government outgo on the premium subsidy.

è Use of technology: Government will encourage use of technology especially Smart phones and remote sensing to a great extent.

è In order to reduce the delays in claim payment to farmers, smart phones will be used to capture and upload data of crop cutting.

è To reduce the number of crop cutting experiments remote sensing will be used.

è The new Crop Insurance Scheme has been formulated in line with One Nation–One Scheme theme.  It replaces existing two schemes viz. National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS) and Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS) by removing their inherent drawbacks (shortcomings) and incorporating the best features of all previous schemes.

42.                India to join the International Energy Agency – Ocean Energy Systems

è India has decided to become member country of the International Energy Agency – Ocean Energy Systems (IEA-OES) to boost for country’s quest for tapping ocean energy sources.

è Key facts:-  By becoming a member India will have access to advanced Research & Development (R&D) teams and technologies across the world.

è India will also become partner in developing test protocols along with other countries which will in turn help in testing Indian prototypes as per international requirements and norms.

è Earth System Science Organisation – National Institute of Ocean Technology (ESSO-NIOT) under the aegis of Union Ministry of Earth Sciences will be the nodal agency for the membership.

è It can also help India to leverage benefits from joint cooperative programs with institutes of member countries could be taken up.

è Benefits:-  By becoming member of IEA-OES, India (power deficit country) can leverage study of ocean renewable energies. It will also help to acquire modern technologies to harness ocean energy and overcome technological challenge due vagaries of the sea ocean energy.

è Provide technology to India (tropical country) to harness Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) due to high sea surface temperatures.

è About International Energy Agency (IEA):- The Inter-governmental organization established in 1974 as per framework of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD).

è Members: Presently it has 29 member countries. Headquarters (Secretariat): Paris, France.

è IEA mandate: To focus on the “3Es” of effectual energy policy: energy security, economic development and environmental protection.

è It also seeks to promote alternate energy sources (including renewable energy), rational energy policies and multinational energy technology co-operation.

è It acts as energy policy advisor to 29 member countries and also non-member countries like China, India and Russia.

è About Ocean Energy Systems (OES):- The OES is an intergovernmental collaboration between countries which operates under framework established by the IEA in 2001. It seeks to harness energy from all forms of ocean renewable resources through international cooperation and information exchange by promoting advance research, development and technologies.

43.                Union Cabinet approves MoU between India and Maldives for Health

è The Union Cabinet has given its approval for the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Maldives on cooperation in the field of Health. The MoU was signed in January, 2014 for facilitating greater cooperation between both the nations and to develop human resources in healthcare.

è Enhanced cooperation in the field of health will also foster great friendship and relations between the two South Asian countries.

è MoU covers cooperation in Development of human resources in healthcare and setting up of health care facilities. Exchange and training of medical doctors, health professionals, officials and experts. Medical and health research development along with management of healthcare sector and public health services. Procurement of essential and generic drugs and assistance in sourcing of drug supplies. Health promotion and disease prevention.

44.                15 January: Indian Army Day

è Indian Army Day is being observed every year on 15 January in India. This year it will be the 68th Indian Army Day.

è Significance of Day: On this day in 1949, Lt. General (later Field Marshal) Kodandera Madappa Cariappa became the first Indian Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army (of the independent India) by succeeding British Army General Roy Butcher (last British Commander-in-Chief of India).

è This day inspires the troops to continue to enrich the glorious traditions of the Indian Army with their dedication and sacrifice. Events: It is celebrated every year at all the Army Command headquarters and national capital by organizing army parades including many other military shows.

45.                HRD Ministry inaugurates permanent campus of IISER in Thiruvananthapuram

è Union Government has inaugurated the first phase of permanent campus of the Indian Institute of Science Education & Research (IISER) at Vithura in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.

è  The IISER Thiruvananthapuram is dedicated to scientific research and science education of international standards. It had started functioning in the state in August 2008 with a transit campus at the College of Engineering Thiruvananthapuram (CET).

è About Institutes of Science Education and Research (IISER):- IISERs are a group of most premier statutory science education and research institutes in India of national importance and are intended to be the IITs of basic sciences.

è The institutes were created under The National Institutes of Technology (Amendment) Bill, 2010 (an amendment of the National Institutes of Technology Act, 2007).

è Presently there are six IISERs in operational namely IISER Kolkata (West Bengal), IISER Pune (Maharashtra), IISER Mohali (Punjab), IISER Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh), IISER Thiruvananthapuram (Kerala) and IISER Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh).

è In 2015 Union Budget, two new IISERs one at Brahmapur (Odisha) and other one in Nagaland have been announced.

46.                 ‘Sahayog – Kaijin 2016’: India and Japan joint Coast Guard exercise

è The 15th edition of bilateral exercise by the Indian Coast Guard and its Japanese counterpart titled ‘Sahayog-Kaijin 2016’ has begun off the coast of Chennai, Tamil Nadu in the Bay of Bengal.

è Key facts: Focus of Exercise: Anti-piracy procedures, search and rescue operations and interoperability between the two forces and other areas of common professional interest.

è Highlights: Japanese Coast Guard ship Echigo along with its integral helicopter is participating. It will also involve Indian coast guard ships like Samudra Pahredar, Rajkamal, Vishwast, Rajtarang, Hovercraft, C-415, C-417, one Dornier and one Chetak helicopter.

è Background:- Sahayog-Kaijin bilateral exercise is a part of the cooperative arrangements between two Coast Guards for the last 15 years. It is also as part of the memorandum on cooperation (MoC) signed between the two countries in 2006.

è It is biennial bilateral exercise held once in two years and the venue would shift in both countries on alternate occasions.

47.                Nag anti-tank missile successful test fired

è The indigenously-built third generation anti-tank missile Nag was successfully test fired at Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan.

è Test During the test, the missile successfully hit the target 4 km away during a night trial validating enhanced capability of Imaging-Infrared seeker (IIS). It mainly guides the missile to the target.

è The main purpose of test to validate Thermal Target System (TTS) was also tested. TTS had simulated a target similar to an operational tank generating thermal signature. With this successful test Nag missile was now ready for final and pre-induction user trials.

è About Nag anti-tank guided missile:-  Indigenously developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) under the Integrated Guided Missile Development Programme (IGMDP).

è It is fire-and-forget anti-tank missile.

è HeliNa is a helicopter-launched version of Nag missile.

è Operational range: 500m to 4km (Land version), 7-10km (Air-launched). Guidance system: Incorporated with advance Active Imaging infra-red (IIR) seeker.

è It has been incorporated with HEAT (High explosive anti-tank) warhead also the top-attack all-weather fire-and-forget system capable of destroying modern tanks with armoured protection by nullifying their ERA (explosive reactive armour).

48.                India’s Grid-linked solar generation capacity crosses 5,000 MW mark

è Union Ministry of New and Renewable Energy has announced that India’s grid-connected solar power generation capacity has crossed the 5,000 Mega Watt (MW) mark.

è Presently, Government has set an ambitious plan to achieve 175 Giga Watt (GW) of power generation capacity from renewable sources by 2022. It includes 100 GW from solar and 60 GW from wind.

è Under the National Solar Mission (NSM), Union Government increased the solar power generation capacity addition target by five times from 20,000 MW to 100 GW by 2022.

è Top grid-connected states Rajasthan (1,264.35 MW). Gujarat (1,024.15 MW). Madhya Pradesh (678.58 MW). Maharashtra (378.7 MW). Andhra Pradesh (357.34 MW). Telangana (342.39 MW). Punjab (200.32 MW). Uttar Pradesh (140 MW).

è Major states lagging behind West Bengal (7.21 MW). Uttarakhand (5 MW). Haryana (12.8 MW).

49.                Union Government inks loan agreement with World Bank for Neeranchal National Watershed Project

è  Union Government has signed a loan agreement with World Bank for the Neeranchal National Watershed Project to improve watershed management in rural rain fed areas.

è The loan credit will support the watershed activities of the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) in selected sites in 9 states. These states are Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana, Jharkhand, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Odisha and Rajasthan.

è Key facts:- World Bank will provide loan of US$ 178.50 million with a maturity of 25 years, including a 5 year grace period. The loan has been sanctioned by the World Bank’s concessionary lending arm International Development Association (IDA).

è It will give impetus to longstanding partnership between the World Bank and Union Government in the watershed management.

è About Neeranchal National Watershed Project:-  The project is implemented by the Union Ministry of Rural Development over a six-year period (2016-21) to achieve objectives of PMKSY.

è It will support the PMKSY in hydrology and water management, agricultural production systems, capacity building and monitoring and evaluation.

è It seeks to ensure access to irrigation to every farmland (Har Khet Ko Pani) and for efficient use of water (Per Drop More Crop).

è The project was approved by the Union Cabinet in October 2015 with a total budget outlay of Rs.2142 crore. Of the total amount Government’s share was of Rs.1071 crore (50%) and the rest 50% of the World Bank.

50.                SBI Launches First Dedicated Branch For Startups – SBI InCube

è India’s largest lender, State Bank of India (SBI) has launched dedicated specialized branch for start-ups called ‘SBI InCube’ in Bengaluru, Karnataka.

è SBI InCube: The ‘SBI InCube’ branch will cater to the specific financial needs by providing advisory services to the budding entrepreneurs under one roof

è It will assist start-ups in cash management, regulations, taxation, mentoring, foreign exchange and remittances and other financial services.

è InCube in its current form will not fund start-ups i.e. it will not provide loans. However it will give them loans when they turn more mature. It will also not help start-ups to raise funds from equity market as it not part of bank’s mandate.

è InCube branch in Bengaluru will be headed by an assistant general manager and a team of three other officers. Soon SBI will be launching these branches in Pune and National Capital Region (NCR).

è SBI Exclusif:-  SBI also has launched wealth management service ‘Exclusif’ to target the fast-growing affluent segment in the country. This service will provide customers a dedicated Relationship Manager to take care of all their banking and investment needs.

51.                The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 comes into force

è The Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015 came into force.

è In this regard, Union Ministry of Woman and Child Development has issued orders for enforceable of Act.

è Key features of  Act:  Aims at ensuring protection, proper care, development and social reintegration of children in difficult circumstances by adopting a child-friendly approach.

è Permits trying of juveniles between the ages of 16 and 18 years as adults for heinous offences.

è Establishment of Child Welfare Committees (CWC) along with Juvenile Justice Boards (JJB) in each district.

è Empowers JJB to examine the nature of crime and decide whether it was committed as a child mind or as an adult mind. Based upon the preliminary inquiry of JJB, juvenile offender will be either sent for rehabilitation or will be tried as an adult.

è The CWC will determine institutional care for juvenile in need of care and protection.

è Prescribes eligibility of adoptive parents and the procedure for adoption.

è Penalties for cruelty against a child have been prescribed in case of offering a narcotic substance to a child and selling and abduction of a child.

52.                PM Narendra Modi launches ‘Start-up India, Stand-up India’ action plan

è Prime Minister Narendra Modi has unveiled the ‘Start-up India, Stand-up India’ action plan in New Delhi to boost startup ventures in the country.

è The main aim of action plan is to give impetus to innovation and encourage the talent among young people and remove onerous government regulations and red tape.

è Key features:-  Start-up India, Stand-up India action plan Start-up profits to be tax-free for 3 years and also no labour inspections for 3 years of launch of the venture.

è Compliance regime based on self-certification for labour and environmental laws.

è Easy exit policy for start-ups with 90 days.

è Tax exemption to be provided on capital gains if money is invested in another start up.

è Government to create Rs. 10,000 crore corpus fund for development and growth of innovation driven enterprises. It will be Rs. 2500 crore a year for four years.

è  Liberalised Fast-track mechanism for start-up patent applications under intellectual property rights protection with 80% cost rebate.

è Encouraging startups to participate in public procurement by easing norms of minimum turnover/experience.

è Mobile apps, portal for register start-ups in a day from 1st April 2016.

è Establishing Credit guarantee fund and special scheme for women entrepreneurs.

è Sector specific incubators 500 tinkering labs, per-incubation and seed funds under the Atal Innovation mission Public-private partnership (PPP) model for 35 new incubators, 7 new research parks, 31 innovation centres at national institutes and 5 new Bio clusters will be set up to help Biotech Sector.

è Government to start Atal Innovation Mission to give an impetus to innovation and encouraging talent among young people by instituting national awards.

è Government to promote the provision of core innovation programmes in 5 lakh schools across the country.

53.                 China’s President Xi Jinping formally opens AIIB in Beijing

è Chinese President Xi Jinping has formally opened Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) in Beijing.

è Background :- The bank was formally established in Beijing on 25 December 2015.

è China’s former Finance Minister Lou Jiwei was elected as the first Chairman of the Bank’s Council while its former Finance Minister Jin Liqun was elected its first President.

è About Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB): The AIIB multilateral development bank backed by China and is seen as a rival to the World Bank and Asian Development Bank (ADB).

è It has been established to infrastructure projects including energy, transportation, urban construction and logistics as well as education and healthcare in Asia-Pacific region.

è Headquarters: Beijing.

è Members: Total there are 57 members, of which  37  are regional and 20 non-regional Prospective Founding Members (PFM).

è Authorized capital: It will be of 100 billion US dollars. The initial subscribed capital will be around 50 billion US Dollar and the paid-in ratio will be 20 per cent.

è Regional character of the Bank: Its regional members (Asian) will be the holding around 75 percent of shares i.e. they will be majority shareholders. They have been allocated their capital share on quota basis i.e. based on their economic size.

è Voting share: For each member country it is based on the size of their economy and not on authorised capital share to the Bank.

è Largest shareholders: China is highest contributor with 30.34 percent stake in authorized capital. It has 26.06 per cent of the voting rights along with veto powers for certain key decisions. India is second largest shareholder with 8.52 per cent stake and voting share of 7.5 per cent.

54.                Tsai Ing-wen elected as first female President of Taiwan

è Pro-Independence Opposition candidate of Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Tsai Ing-wen (59) has been elected as first female and 14th President of Taiwan. Ms Tsai’s victory is the biggest mandate ever won by a DPP president and is only the second-ever victory for the DPP since Taiwan split with China in 1949.

è The first was Chen Shui-bian who also was pro-independence (from China) advocate. During his time as President between 2000 and 2008 tensions had escalated with China.

è Background:-  In the 2016 general elections, DPP which leads the camp that wants independence from China led by Tsai Ing-wen emerged victorious with 56% of the total vote share. She defeated Eric Chu of the ruling Kuomintang (KMT) Party that secured 31% vote share.

è China sees Taiwan as a breakaway province (island) which will one day be reunited with the mainland. China also has threatened to take back by force, if necessary.

è The two sides had split in 1949 after then nationalist KMT party had lost to the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) under Mao Zedong and had set up a new government in Taiwan. The KMT Party has ruled Taiwan for almost past 70 years and has overseen improved relations with China in recent times.

55.                US lifts nuclear sanctions on Iran

è United States (US) has removed a wide range of nuclear sanctions against Iran after it has met its commitments to roll back its nuclear programme.

è These sanctions were lifted after International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) confirmed that Iran has met its commitments under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPA) or Vienna agreement with P5+1 countries signed in July 2015.

è So called P5+1 countries include the five permanent members of the UN Security Council (UNSC) viz. USA, Russia, China, UK, France and non- permanent member Germany.

è Key facts:-  US has only removed secondary sanctions on Iran that mainly restricts dealings of other countries with Iran. These lifted secondary sanctions include financial services, banking, insurance, energy and petrochemicals, shipping and ports.

è However, primary sanctions imposed by US on Iran still remains in force. These sanctions bar US citizens and companies from doing business with Iran.

è Benefits to India:- Lifting of primary sanctions will benefit India with lower oil prices on imports from its traditional supplier Iran and also boost trade opportunities.

è It will also bring proposed India-Pakistan-Iran (IPI) gas pipeline closer to reality.

è Give impetus to development and construction of strategic Chabbar port which is focal point of India’s gateway to energy rice central Asia and eastern Europe through proposed International North South Trade Corridor (INSTC).

56.                India’s Dinesh Sharma elected to board of directors of AIIB

è India’s Dinesh Sharma has been elected to the board of directors of the China-sponsored Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). He has been elected to the 12-member board through a secret ballot.

è This is the first board of directors of AIIB in which 57 nations are founding members including India.

è The inaugural meeting of the board of the governors of the AIIB also held in Beijing after its formal launch. The meeting approved by-laws, rules and codes of conduct for the bank.

è It should be noted that Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is the designated governor of the AIIB from India. However he was represented by Mr. Sharma at the meeting.

è Presently, Dinesh Sharma is serving as Additional Secretary of Union Ministry of Finance.

è The election of India to board of directors of the AIIB is expected to provide significant role for it as it is the forum that approves the loans for projects.

è With authorised capital of 100 billion dollars, AIIB is expected to begin loan approvals before the end year 2016.

è It will provide financial support for infrastructure development and regional connectivity in Asia in sectors including energy, transportation, urban construction and logistics as well as education and healthcare.

57.                Chinese scientists develop new bio-artificial liver

è  Chinese scientists have developed a new bio-artificial liver that can help patients to survive from liver failure long enough for an organ transplant.

è Key facts:-  The bio-artificial liver is based on human liver cells and has been designed to be attached outside a patient’s body.

è This liver device is based on cells taken from human fat, skin or other tissues and is reprogrammed into liver cells.

è It can help  to prolong lives of patients with liver failure by recovering patients’ liver functions till suitable donor livers for a transplant is found.

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