Current Topiclist Mrunal DecW1 MayW1

Month Utility
14_12_DecW1 00P only

14_12_DecW1 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW1 z_Ignored
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 M only
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 00P only
15_01_JanW2 z_Ignored
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 0P+M
15_02_FebW1 00P only
15_02_FebW1 z_Ignored
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW3 M+I

15_03_MarW1 z_Ignored
15_03_MarW1 0P+M
15_03_MarW1 0P+M
15_03_MarW1 00P only

15_03_MarW2 0P+M

15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 0P+M

15_03_MarW4 0P+M


15_04_AprW1 z_Ignored
15_04_AprW1 OLF
15_04_AprW1 0P+M
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 0P+M
15_04_AprW2 M+I
15_04_AprW2 00P only
15_04_AprW3 0P+M
15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_05_MayW1 OLF
15_05_MayW1 00P only
15_05_MayW1 z_Ignored
15_05_MayW1 OLF
Topic
Government to develop Buddhist tourism centres in Ghantasala/Krishna region of Andhra Pradesh, wit
Muzris port- some new facts appeared. Will update old article.
rock paintings of Kadapa
Thatheras brass and copper craft gets UNESCO tag
Justice VR Krishna Iyer- contribution as "personalities" in post-independent India.
Sushma wants Gita be declared as National Scripture, Congies oppose.
Questions raised on succession in British Crown after testing Richard the third's DNA line
Modi Government refuses to disclose files related to Subhashchandra Bose saying it'll hurt diplomatic
PIB 2nd december had truckload of matter on sports related Government schemes, policies, intervent
GS2 paper of Mains-2014, not much point in chasing it for next exam.
Rock paintings at Kilvalai, Puducherry
Buddha Heritage walk route.
Amaravathi becomes UNESCO heritage city
Gonds may have migrated from Indus Valley civilization towards Central and Southern India -according
C. Iyodhee Thass Pandithar. There is no guarentee freedom fighter type questions won't reappear aga
Bharat Ratna Malviya and Vajpayee
Baba Amte: 100th Bday
Buddhist sites found @Pakistan
Kuka movement-in news because new postal stamp released
Gyan Sangam meeting at Pune between Government and Bank CMDs to banking sector reforms.
Adarsh Smaraks across India
Sulba Sutra- origin of Pythagorean theorem
Chandayan Harrapan Site: housing plans found
pre-historic rock paintings at Marayur-Chinnar forest.
Budduist relic casket founded at Phanigiri, Nalgonda
Swamy says he'll ask Modi to release Bose's file. Matter already covered in old article.
Hauz-e-Shamsi built by Illtutmish in 1230 CE in Mehrauli, Delhi. ASI cleaned it up for arriawal of Himal
Union cultural ministry working on Museum acquisition policy. Let'em notify first
Maharashtra Government decides to buy the bunglow where Dr.Amedkar lived during his studies in Lo
PM Modi gifts Obama, a telegram of Secretary State Dean Acheson to Indian Constituent assembly in 1
contribution of AMU alumni Raja Mahendra Pratap in Freedom struggle
Sarnath: here Buddh delivered first sermon and 11th Jain Trithankar Shreyamshanath was born. World
their handicraft industries.
A 400-year-old Tamil hero stone proves existence of Bull-sport Jallikattu in India. Earlier Maneka Gand
India.
Navjivan trust members say there is need to replace Gandhian icons with changing times. E.g. Charkh
UNESCO officers to visit Ahemdabad soon, to decide if it deserves "heritage" tag.
Khongjom Parma: it is a Manipuri ballad that recalls heroic battle between Manipuris against the Britis
observed as remembrance day in Manipur to mark this event. Ibemni Devi- first woman khongjom bal
2008: Tourism ministry launched Explore Rural India program under its Incredible India campaign to
livelihood opportunities to rural junta. Puducherry's Alankuppam village selected (2011)
The Peranakan Chinese are descendants of southern Chinese traders who settled in South-East Asia a
traditions, but with strong influences from South-East Asia and Europe. Topic in news because Delhi M
ASI had found Satvahan remnants in Medak district of Telangana in 2009- Lajja Gauri statue, coins, ter
Karnataka. But not much progress in excavation due to lack of funds.
Ex-CAG Vinod Rai's Audit report says over 200 kg of gold Siphoned off from Padmanabhaswamy templ
When Apartheid S.African Government closed down all avenues for legal-peaceful protests, Nelson Ma
underground and began sabotaging while avoiding civilian causalities. Caught in 62, released in the 9
was released in 11/02/1990 so 2015 marks 25th anniversary of his release.
Britain will honor Indian soldiers who fought in WW1. 11 out of 628 winners of Victoria cross, were from
in a ceremony at Staffordshire. + planning to raise a Sikh regiment
HRD ministry replaces the members of Indian Council of Historical Research (ICHR) with RSS-backed h
Brazil capital Rio De Janeiro was founded on March 1, 1565 by Portuguese explorer Estacio de Sa. 201
S. Chandnibi, noted Historian on Chola-empire says (1) Cholas gave land grants to Kashmiri brahmin
children in Tamilnadu. They were even given the official title "Rayan" (2) during 6 to 13th CE, south In
instruction of using the said land for public purpose. So North Indian type feudalism is non-existent in
'grain capacity', but Chola kings measured land with units like like ma, veli and Kuzhi.
Sahitya Akademi completes 60 years on March 12. Its origin, function, jurisdiction becomes import for
Parrot lady is a scuplture of a Naayika (Heroine) with her Parrot Pet-friend (sakha). Such scupltures ass
Topic in new because one such stolen sculpture from Belur temple, found its way to Canada.
March 10-14, India will commemorate the centenary of WW1, where ~75k Indian soldiers died fighting
Buddha attained Enlightenment under Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya. 288BC, Ashok's daughter Princess San
Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka till 8th BC. Later it grows into Mahabodhi tree. Modi offered
Jaitley unveils Mahatma Gandhi bronze statue in London's Parliament Square. Designer: Philip Jackson
return to India from South Africa to launch the Independence Movement.
Mysore King Tipu Sultan's arms and armour will go for auction in London.
2014: Project Mausam launched at World Heritage Committee meeting at Doha, Quatar. Now Govern
Indian ocean nations.
Images of Jagannath puri gods are made up of Margosa tree wood. But wood decays after a period of t
observed as Nava Kalevara festival- the ceremony to replacement of Jagannath image. And this year's
comes after 19 years.It'll be promoted as an international tourism event.
Under 1840's agreement, the British took over New Zealand from the Maori tribes, and assured them
with white settlers killed tribes. Since then Maori tribes lagging behind in all socio-economies paramet
the NZ government has officially apologized past atrocities and gave ~$130 million for tribal developm
1937: Chamberlain became PM of UK. 1938: Nazi Germany captures Austria. Then Hitler moved towar
(1938) signed by Germany, Italy, United Kingdom and France to allow Nazi Germany to annex certa
country. Winston Churchill criticized Chamberlain for his lack of foresight.
On 21-22 March 1783, Sikh forces conquest Lal Qila under leadership ip of Baba Baghel Singh against
celebrate this "fateh diwas" as a national event.
Biography of Pt. Madan Mohan Malviya (1861-1946). [+] Practiced law in Allahabad HC, and a journali
Banaras Hindu University (1916), and Hindu Mahasabha [+] Wanted simultaneous ICS (Civil service)
Education [+] Member of provincial legislative council in 1903. [+] wanted rapid education, industrial
Commission report. [+] Pleaded that imperial council to abolish indentured Labour, saying it was just
meeting Act, and some of the disappointing passages in Morley-Minto Reforms. [+] Said that If Hindu/
domination, then such hindu/muslim/christians are not "Patriots". Because Patriotism demands that w
alike. [+] Bharat Ratna in 2014. Recieved by family members in March 2015. Ref: Book review publis
formative years of Indian nationalism by Vishwanath Pandey".
16th century Lodhi prince Lad Khan ruled over eastern Uttar Pradesh. Kalyana Malla was his poet, who
and Arabic tales. Topic in news because an ex-diplomat A.N.D. Haksar has translated this Sanskrit boo
Delhi's Humayun Tomb was built in 16th cent., is a UNESCO world heritage site. But In 2014 May, due
Now ASI has restored it with a replica containing 99.5% pure copper.
Under Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, Hyderabad was given to Telangana. Andhra Pradesh
Amreshwar Temple located 35 km away from Guntur at Krishna river banks. This area was once the Sa
the capital of many Andhra dynasties. Largest Andhra stupa was built here (150-200 AD). Union Gov
capital. MoU signed with Singapore for designing this capital, city will take ~10 years to develop fully.
year and now Government will acquire such fertile land= food security hurt and urban heat islands cre
1914: Canadian Authorities prevent Kamaghata Maru ship from unloading Passengers At Vancouver po
Sep-1914, where British authorities killed 19 Punjabis and imprisoned with the remaining people. Now
for its role in this Unfortunate event, because earlier Canada has apologized to China and Japan.
President Pranab gives Bharat Ratna on Atal Bihari Vajpayee at Vajpayee's residence. Ignored because
article. Same for Malviya.
Lion Capital of Rampurva- a Mauryan sculpture- unearthed by Dayaram Sahni in early 1900. It was da
by ASI staff.
TheHindu launches book on Guruvayur Sreekrishna Temple at Thrissur, Kerala. It has survived fires an
Delhi had applied for heritage city tag to UNESCO. To ensure easy verification, Delhi Development aut
"Imperial City of Shahjahanabad" and Lutyens Bungalow Zone (LBZ) as "Imperial City of New Delhi."
Haryana government will begin excavation to find mythical Saraswati river. It is believed to be origina
the better for agro and drinking. Anti- excavation without any scientific study, just for vote bank purpo
UP lawyers file PIL to get Taj Mahal declared as "Shiva Temple" and remove tombs of mughals from the
Parliament condemns the statements made by Former SC judge turned blogger Justice Markandey Kat
natural justice violated because he was not given a fair chance to justify his opinion, so instead he dem
[+] Gandhi helped the British by injecting Hindu religion into politics, thereby alienating muslims towa
freedom fighters like Bhagat Singh, Azad, Bose, Bismil et al. were portrayed as mavericks and deviant
independence because after Second World War, British Empire was weakened and America pressured
exaggerated. [+] Subhashchandra Bose was brave but he had become a Japanese agent. If Japan had
just like they did in China and other Asian countries.
Modi planning memorial for Narasimha Rao in Delhi.
JERUSALEM: A burial tomb found. Some archaeologist claim it contains bones of Jesus. Others call it sc
India's got official minorities: Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Parsees, Jains and Anglo-Indians. Only Anglo I
their religion. During East India company's Raj, Anglo-Indians were given preferential jobs in the police
forces except for petty non-combat jobs as drummers etc. because Company believed they lacked the
new book on Anglo Indians.
Ramanuja- 11th century philosopher from Shrirangam, Tamilnadu. DMK leader Karunanidhi writing a s
of Visishtadvaita. Also known as Ilaya Perumal. He converted Jains to Hinduism, including Hoysala King
UPSC's fondness to ask complex questions about Shankara, Vedanta etc. in MCQs.
2500: Assyrian ruled over Iran-Mediterranean region. They worshiped in temples, and installed huge r
monuments in Nimrud (Iraq) saying idol worship prohibited in Islam. UNESCO world heritage city Hatra
market to finance their war operations.
6th Century: Hagia Sofia was a Christian Byzantine church in Istanbul, Turkey. 1453: Ottoman kings co
Kemal Ataturk converted into museum. But 2015: a Muslim cleric recited Koran in Hagia Sofia. "Secula
also "outraged".
Nehru spied on Subhachandra Bose's relatives during 1948-68, according to the declassified files from
Now even Bhagat Singh relatives allege spying on them.
Agra District court admitted petition to convert Taj Mahal into Shiva temple.
Dr. Ambedkars 124th birth anniversary on 14th April. His contribution to India, already covered in /his
1908: Young turk movement seizes power in Ottoman Empire and sides with Germany. However, Russ
Armenians for siding with Russian and began their genocide in the city of Van from 1915 to 1917. Man
1st Genocide, although Turkey denies.
Festivals: Utkala Dibasa (Odisha), Mahavir Jayanti (Jain), Easter (Christians), Vaisakhi, Vishu, Puthandu
Eminent Historian Sabyasachi Bhattacharya resigns from as Chief Editor from Indian Council of Histori
write history and he can't stand it.
Last king of Awadh -Wajid Ali Shah had keen interest astrology, he even prepared calendars in Persian
because his calendar is on display in museum for first time.
Noted historian Irfan Habib Criticises Haryana Government's wasteful expenditure to rediscover Saras
Does not have the features mentioned in ancient texts. [+] The local legends claim the invisible Saras
So, despite the fact that Haryana's natural slope is south-westerly, officials are digging towards South
the Rann of Kutch, parallel to the Indus. So Prayag can't be in Saraswati's course. [+] The Rigveda in i
adjectives between the Yamuna and Shutudri (Sutlej).
After British tookover Punjab and snatched Kohinoor diamond, they deported royal prince Duleep Sing
was named Princess Sophia Who worked for [+] Voting rights for women "Suffragette movement" [+]
Gokhale, Sarala Devi and Lala Lajpat Rai. [+] helped wounded Indian soldiers in WW1.
HASAN ABDAL is a small town in PAKISTAN near Islamabad. Panja Sahib Gurdwara has imprints of Guru
visit but Pakistani Sikhs afraid due to violence against minorities, by radical muslim outfits.
Kedarnath, the most remote of the four Char Dham sites, in the Himalayas. ~12000 ft above seal leve
years back, Uttarakhand Tsunami/flash floods damaged its temple. Now Rahul Gandhi paying a visit.
World History: In GALLIPOLI PENINSULA (TURKEY) the soldiers of British Indian army and Australian an
Turkey. Allied forces were defeated, 1.3 lakh including 15k Indians had died. [+] April 25 marks "ANZA
wars.
World History [+] 1908: Young turk movement seizes power in Ottoman Empire and sides with
of Sarikemish. Turks blamed Armenians for siding with Russian and began their genocide in th
and even Pope in 2015 called it 20th Century's 1st Genocide, although Turkey denies. [+] 201
Russia total 20 nations recognize "Armenian Genocide". But Turkey says 5 lakh were killed in
World History: Jew-Holocaust victims file class action suit against French Railways in USA. Charge: Fren
World history: Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe offers "condolences" and "remorse" for Japanese at
Asian women who were used as sex slaves by Japanese soldiers.
RSS asks HRD ministry to setup an institute to promote classical Indian languages abroad, just like Ch
Earlier rock paintings of buffalos, lions and rhinos found at CHAUVET CAVE, FRANC, near Ardeche river
created an exact artificial replica where tourists can see it.
Jnanpith Award is the highest literary honour in India. Prize: Rs. 11 lakh. 2014 award given to Marathi
1963). Total five Marathi writers have won this award so far: (1) novelist V.S. Khandekar (2) poets V.V.
Bhalchandra Nemade
Lalit Kala Akademi is an autonomous organisation of the Culture Ministry. But there were complaints o
took over its functioning in April, and Kalyan Kumar Chakravarty removed as Akademi Chairperson. [+
replaced with replicas. Committee investigating but process stalled. [+]
Babasaheb Purandare is a right wing historian and Shiv Sena leader. He's nicknamed "Shiv Sahir" (Shi
Chatrapati and Janata Raja [+] Maharashtra Government to give him "Maharashtra Bhushan" award. C
with other historians such as Sir Jadunath Sarkar ("Shivaji and his times") and Govind Pansare ("Who w
February 19, 1630. But Sir Jadunath Sarkar said it was April 6, 1627. [+] Sambhaji Brigade's founder P
about Shivaji to stok tensions between Hindus and Muslims.
Chetan Bhagats novel Half Girlfriend. He had portrayed royal family of Dumraon (Bihar) in poor light.
Maharaja Bahadur Kamal Singh. His descendants went to court against Bhagat's novel. Bhagat agreed
place Simraon
Rakhigarhi village in Haryana- Harappan burial mound with 4 skeletons found from Mature Harappan p
S.Korean university extracted DNA from it to predict their skin,hair colors and facial features. This site
figurines of wild boar and dogs, and furnaces and hearths- meaning possible bangle and bead-making
St.Stephen alumni want HRD ministry to remove principal Valson Thampu for financial irregularities an
[+] In Okhla, UP Government owns land . But Delhi Government wants it to expand Jamia Milia Islamia
court.
Buddha Purnima celebrated on May 4th. Modi wisdom: [+] Lord Buddhas teaching of Atta Deepo Bha
management lessons ever, [+] Buddhism as the way to a world free of war and violence. [+] 21st Ce
light for Asia.
Kathak exponent Pandit Birju Maharaj criticises Bollywood movies for showing Kathak as dance of brot
art form.
Month Category Column1
14_12_DecW1 IT/electronics 0P+M

14_12_DecW1 Medical 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 Sci-Tech 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 Defense 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 Sci-Tech M
14_12_DecW1 Robotics 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 Space-tech 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 Medical 0P only
14_12_DecW1 Sci-Tech 0P only
14_12_DecW1 Sci-Tech 0P only
14_12_DecW1 Medical z_Ignored

14_12_DecW1 Sci-Tech z_Ignored
14_12_DecW1 Sci-Tech z_Ignored
14_12_DecW1 Space-tech z_Ignored
14_12_DecW2 Medical OLF

14_12_DecW2 Defense 00P only
14_12_DecW2 IT/electronics OLF



14_12_DecW2 Space-tech OLF


14_12_DecW3 Robotics OLF
14_12_DecW3 Defense OLF

14_12_DecW4 Robotics OLF

14_12_DecW4 IT/electronics z_Ignored

14_12_DecW4 Space-tech 0P only

14_12_DecW4 Robotics 0P+M

14_12_DecW4 Space-tech 0P only
14_12_DecW4 Defense z_Ignored

14_12_DecW4 Medical M+I

15_01_JanW1 IT/electronics OLF
15_01_JanW1 Medical 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 Defense OLF

15_01_JanW1 Medical OLF
15_01_JanW1 Medical z_Ignored

15_01_JanW1 Sci-Tech OLF
15_01_JanW1 Medical 00P only
15_01_JanW1 Space-tech z_Ignored

15_01_JanW1
15_01_JanW1 Sci-Tech z_Ignored
15_01_JanW1 IT/electronics z_Ignored

15_01_JanW1 Space-tech 0P only

15_01_JanW1 Medical z_ignored


15_01_JanW2 Space-tech OLF



15_01_JanW3 Space-tech OLF
15_01_JanW3 IT/electronics 00P only


15_01_JanW3 Defense 0P+M

15_01_JanW3 Defense OLF

15_01_JanW4 IT/electronics 0P+M

15_01_JanW4 IT/electronics 0P+M

15_01_JanW4 Medical M+I

15_01_JanW4 Robotics OLF

15_01_JanW4 Medical M+I
15_01_JanW4 Defense 00P only
15_02_FebW1 IT/electronics OLF
15_02_FebW1 Medical OLF
15_02_FebW1 Medical 0P+M

15_02_FebW1
15_02_FebW1 IT/electronics 00P only
15_02_FebW1 Medical 00P only

15_02_FebW1 Medical z_Ignored

15_02_FebW1 Defense 00P only
15_02_FebW1 Defense z_Ignored
15_02_FebW1 Defense OLF
15_02_FebW2 Sci-Tech 00P only
15_02_FebW2 IT/electronics 0P+M

15_02_FebW2 Space-tech 00P only
15_02_FebW2 IT/electronics z_Ignored

15_02_FebW3 Sci-Tech z_Ignored

15_02_FebW3 Space-tech z_Ignored







15_03_MarW1 Defense 00P only
15_03_MarW1 Sci-Tech Z_Ignored
15_03_MarW1 Medical z_Ignored
15_03_MarW1 Medical OLF

15_03_MarW1 Medical 00P only
15_03_MarW1 IT/electronics 00P only

15_03_MarW1 Space-tech z_Ignored
15_03_MarW1 Sci-Tech 00P only
15_03_MarW1 IT/electronics OLF
15_03_MarW1 Space-tech OLF

15_03_MarW1 space-tech 00P only
15_03_MarW1 Sci-Tech 0P+M
15_03_MarW2 Defense OLF
15_03_MarW2 Medical 0P+M

15_03_MarW2 Defense z_Ignored

15_03_MarW3 Medical M+I

15_03_MarW3 Space-tech 00P only


15_03_MarW4 Defense 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 IT/electronics 0P+M


15_03_MarW4 Space-tech 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 Sci-Tech OLF
15_04_AprW1 Defense 00P only
15_04_AprW1 Space-tech z_Ignored
15_04_AprW1 Medical OLF
15_04_AprW1 Medical 00P only

15_04_AprW1 IT/electronics OLF
15_04_AprW1 Medical 0P+M
15_04_AprW1 Defense OLF

15_04_AprW1 Space-tech 00P only
15_04_AprW1 IT/electronics 0P+M

15_04_AprW1 Defense 0P+M
15_04_AprW2 IT/electronics 0P+M



15_04_AprW2 Medical z_Ignored


15_04_AprW3 Sci-Tech 00P only
15_04_AprW3 Sci-Tech 00P only

15_04_AprW3 IT/electronics z_Ignored

15_04_AprW3 IT/electronics 00P only
15_04_AprW4 IT/electronics 00P only
15_04_AprW4 Medical z_Ignored
15_04_AprW4 Defense 0P+M

15_04_AprW4 Sci-Tech OLF
15_05_MayW1 Space-tech z_Ignored
15_05_MayW1 Medical OLF
15_05_MayW1 Defense 00P only
15_05_MayW1 Sci-Tech 00P only
15_05_MayW1 IT/electronics OLF
15_05_MayW1 e 00P only
15_05_MayW1 Medical 00P only

15_05_MayW1 Medical OLF
15_05_MayW1 IT/electronics 00P only
15_05_MayW1 Defense 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 Space-tech 00P only

Topic
i-MOT software for monitering terror network

vanadia nanowires to reduce cell damage
GSAT-16, althogh basics already covered in earlier articles.
Pravati-2 Garlic variety
Defense: Agni-4 test fired, final decision to purchase Rafale jets
fish drier using solar-biomass energy
(Robotics) Kiva Robot of Amazon, Robotic Chitah
Space tech: GSAT-6, GSLV Mk-III, NASA's new horizon mission for Pluto
Watson sells his nobel medal for chairt. So his discovery becomes automaticaly important for prelims
HIV becoming less aggressive.
Hayabusa2 explorer
Glonass K satellite
DGCA add Addendum 2015 to Pharmacopoeia 2014. This is important for pharmacists' interviews. Not
anywhere else.
Google to release new slimmer version of Google glasses. Well let it come first.
Artificial intelligence could eliminate mankind: Hawking
Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) news repeated but topic already covered.
New research to inject stem cell in bald head- to promote hairgrowth
Anti-biotic resistant bacteria found in Kerala's fishes. They're capable of harming human as well. Thes
would have reached in ocean water via untreated sewage from coastal-hospitals.
NASA finds new evidence of water on Mars
SC lifts ban on Hookah bars
Pinaka Mark-II rocket test fired. It has range of 60 km, can fire 12 rockets in 44 seconds and cover a bl
approx. sq. 4 kms
Web index measures Internets contribution to social, economic and political progress of a country. 20
Ranking: #1, Denmark, and India sucks the most among BRICS nations.
Inventor of WWW says affordable access to the Internet should be recognized as a human right
Stem cells can restore vision and provide alternative to corneal transplantation
NPPA increase price limits on 52 essential drugs- thereby allowing the companies to sell them at bit hi
China testing "Wu-14" hypersonic glide missile. It can even evade US Missile shield.
According to TRAI data, India is losing war against spammer and tele-marketing callers.
SC rejects Bayer pharma's plea to stop generic version of its Kidney cancer drug Nexavar. This will hel
to produce cheaper generic version.
mosquito coils contain "Pyrethrin" a carcinogenic pesticide.
ISRO's space Programs are protected by New India Insurance. Same company could be utilized for insu
nuclear power stations.
Lancet Journal says life expectancy of Indian woman has increased to 68.5 years
Carbon nanotubes can be used as smart-shock-absorbers in mobiles and tablets. Research ongoing
GSLV Mark-III test flight successful. Altogather topic already covered in old article.
Government clears defense purchase of Samyukta electronic warfare system, P7-platform etc.
IIIT Idupulapaya students design path-programmable robotos for vaccum-cleaning the house etc. but
name given hence just OLF
UN official says India can be AIDS-free by 2030.
Hongkong researchers say 6% of world population addicted to internet.
NASA's Kepler spacecraft found a "superearth" 180 light years away from our planet.
CGS Barracuda- this is first Indian petrol vessel export. Mauritius purchased it.
Arihant Nuke powered submarine- some experts believe its fuel capacity is insufficient for long distanc
operations.
DRDO's Glide Bomb
India aims to purchase Russian Kamov-226T helicopters but not yet materialized.
history of horse domestication revealed through horse DNA genome analysis.
C-DAC's protable device to lift injured cattle and large animals. It doesn't have a fancy name yet, henc
important.
Ezhil Programming language

Global Hawk UAV drone - India interested to buy from USA
Hyperloop trains-will run faster than bullet trains.
China arrests 30,000 for online porn and gambling

India needs to reduce dependence on Chinese bulk-drugs.
Naval version of LCA
ISRO's Multi-object tracking radar
FDA to allow gay men to donate blood.
top-10 sncience breakthrus in 2014 (although selective)
NASA maps water-vapor distribution in Mars
govt admits Japanese encephalitis cases increasing

Panchi UAV by DRDO
ACIS helmets with airbags for save batsmen from bouncers
China JL-2 missile and sea based nuke deterrent
Government to launch Action plan against Diarrhea, pneumonia
MoM Incubator
Robotic sea turtle by Indian origin scientists
ICRISAT Green Phablet

NASA's SMAP instrument to measure soil moisture.
Artemisinin-naphthoquine drug-combo should be used for Malaria, says a research report.
Agni-5 Launch postponed.
Telecom Department orders ISPs to ban 32 websites including pastebin, dailymotion, vimeo etc. using
69A of IT act.
National policy for drug demand reduction
Sugamya Bharat Campaign
White-FI and Digital locker

National Health Policy 2015
USA's NSA found it difficult to crack Zoho email service. Indian Sridhar Vembu is founder of this compa
Modi wants to declare health as a fundamental right, although no concrete announcement on Constitu
amendment.
We can't make world class aerospace engines due to shortage of titanium. US bullet proof vests are 10
heavier hence unable to suit Indian men.
2/3rd of Cancer cases are just bad luck and not because of environment or genetic factors.
new compound 6-thiodG can stop cancer cells.
NATMO publishing Braille maps for VH
rising number of Caesaren deliveries in Kerala's Government hospitals because doctors get more mon
Caesarean than in normal delivery.
ASSOCHAM says cybercrime will doubple in 2015.

NASA working on inflatable aircraft for landing men on mars
Bombay Blood group
can Aspirin cure dementia? Australian university trying to find out.
Modi approves Neutrino project. Basics already covered in old article.
2011: Fukushima radiation leakage. Finally in 203 their rice passed the radation test hence fit for cons
Spider telescopes will circle around Antarctica to obserev microwaves in space.

102nd science congress: talks about aeroplane knowledge existed 7000 years ago and then debate w
"Communal" vs "Secular" columnists in theHindu
Samsung working on "Internet of Things" e.g person removes his earphones after reaching home then
song will resume on his home-theater. Ignored because basics of "Internet of Things" already covered
notes for GS3.
Comet Lovejoy
ISRO prepares to launch IRNSS-1D. Although basics already covered in old article- IRNSS will have 7 sa
this is the 4th one to be launched after A,B and C.
BJP MP Sakshi Maharaj asks Hindu couples to produce 4 children.
Punjab bans the sale of loose cigarettes and tobacco
Keplar telescope finds 8 new planets. This type of MCQs ceased to appear since last few exams hence
Government planning to shift from"sickcare" to "healthcare" - because preventive health will empowe
everyone.
NASA building Volcanobot to explore extra-terrestrial volcanos.
ESAT-6 protein from TB bacteria can be used for better treatment. Ignored because research still in inf
and no fancy names involved.
new antibiotics from soil-bacteria
Nissan and NASA joined hands to manufacture self-driving cars but no fancy brand name given yet
Modk orders Health ministry to draft accountability mechanism for doctors. Although no notification /r
yet.
WHO wants to eliminate TB by 2050, but India unlikely to meet this target.
President Obama wants new laws- requiring companies to inform customers within 30 days, If their sit
hacked. Another law- to prevent companies from selling information of students to advertizement / tel
marketing/spam companies.
China relaxed one child policy. If either husband/wife was the single child of their parents, the couple c
2nd child but only after approval from Government. 10 lakh couples applied so far.
Health ministry working on roadmap to solve malnutrition problem in tribal kids.
Goa sports minister says he can heal gays and lesbians with medicine.
Virgin coconut oil is high in lauric acid, helps in obesity.
There will be 213 million mobile users in India by June 2015
new Amendment bill to ban sale of loose cigars and increase fine on smoking at public places absent
Misuse of technology: Whatsapp is being used for betting on cockfights in Andhra Pradesh
ISRO's fire-retardant compound CASPOL.
Insecticide resistant "Super mosquito"
MenAfriVac: a vaccine against Meningitis
Government requested SC to take action against online-sex determination ads
During Obama's visit India-US will sign MoU to jointly fight Ebola
false alarm at International space station. Russian and American space agencies trying to fix it.
11 years ago, Britain's Beagle-2 spacecraft went missing in Mars. Now it's found
new technology to watch 3d effects without 3d glasses
Novartis Glivec Nexavar patent fight. It is becoming "Vodafone" of patent cases- seems the topic will n
China starts clinical trials on using stem-cells to cure spinal cord injury
Google halts production of Google-glass, but will release a new consumer friendly version soon.
Mali declared Ebola free. List of countries "affected" and list of compares "list of countries became free
becomes important for prelim list, given the ball-by-ball commentary on ebola every week.
WHO says 50% of Chinese men are smokers
Stemrad belt to protect you against Radiation
DRDO's Agni-V test (on Jan 31st)
Andhra Pradesh CM says his state is facing "demographic" crisis therefore people should produce mor
we'll become similar to Japan
LCA (Tejas) still has to cross many tests before it can become battle ready. It'll take years
"Ceres" is a dwarf planet in Mars-Jupiter asteroid belt. NASA's Dawn space craft recently captured its p
WHO says Indians face high chances of dying in non-communicable diseases (NCDs) heart, cancer,
and respiratory ailments.
NACO=>funds to Union Government => funds to State Government. But some states not releasing AI
to NGOs on time, hence Hyderabad-NGOs stopped working.
Women-child ministry will give Rs.1 crore award to 1-crore award for any innovative village attaining a
sex ratio.
From Genome studies, Research found TB baterium had originated from China
Indian-American builds braille printer with Lego parts. I covered this already last year 2014. but Indian
only noticed this news in January, 2015
Government setsup AK Bhargava Committee for examine "Net Neutrality". Report awaited.
Microsoft's 3D Hololens
Haryana doctors compulsorily required to install a tracking device on their ultrasound machine- which
automatically transfers test-database to Chief medical officer. This helps curbing nuisance of female fo
and doctors no longer need to manually fill the compliance forms under PNDT act.
After epicfail response in Ebola crisis, now WHO mulling reforms in its operational structure
After Nigeria, Senegal- now Mali becomes 3rd country in world to be declared Ebola free.
Ceres is a dwarf planet between Mars and Jupiter. NASA's Ceres spacecraft reached near it.
"Penghu-1" prehistoric human found in Taiwan. It is older than the oldest specimen of Homo Sepians
Scientists using drones for researching on irrigation, applying plant-herbicide, fertilizer etc.
Scientists found nerve cells governing thirst in humans
Thar rail express- two passenger died in Crimean Congo fever. All major diseases-symptops should be
in self-study irrespective of whether they appear in hindu or not.
SC orders Google, Yahoo and Microsoft search engines not ot display ads about sex-determination test
DRDO's Agni-5 launched from Odisha's wheeler island in a caniester mounted on a truck, it can carry 1
nuke warehead for 5000kms. India's first Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM)
A Shanghai builder planning Worlds tallest 3D-printed building using a 3D printer.

NACO working on special software to link Aadhar cards of AIDS patients. Next time person goes in a di
clinic, it'll automatically show data about his previous registration and tests.
UK passes law for regulation of '3-parent-baby' treament. if mom has defective DNA for mitochondria,
suffer heart-liver-brain damage. Solution- insert healthy DNA code from another female into her egg, f
with father's sperm= 3 parent baby.
Army making its own Mobile Cellular Communications System (MCCS) using BEL handsets and Code D
Multiple Access (CDMA) technology because its harder to spoof. They also created a separate Army W
Network (AWAN) to connect HQ with battalion level formations using optical fiber network.
WHO fears cancer deaths will rise by 70% in next 20 years. Must focus on HPV-vaccine, Hep-B vaccine
reduce non-ionizing sunligtht radiation. These measures will help reduce deaths from from non-comm
diseases by 25 per cent by 2025
Health ministry submits to SC, our expert panel working to amend Food Safety and Standards Act, 200
more punishment to milk adulteration crooks.
Silicene is world's thinnest silicon material. Researchers used it to create One-atom-thin silicon transis
Till now, Scientists believed stem cells can be used to create new eggs and thereby cure infertility. Ne
says it's not possible.
Scientists studying Mixed Lineage Leukaemia (MLL) protein to find out leukemia occurs in people.
Litchi seeds contain methylenecyclopropylglycine (MCPG). Researchers claim its responsible for the s
outbreaks of mysterious brain disease in among young children in Muzaffarpur district of Bihar.
Spectrum is a frequencies band of electromagnetic waves or radio waves. Radio waves are used for
communication and broadcasting. Example FM radio- 88 to 108 Mhz, Mobile services on providers 90
MHz and so on. But Two operators cannot use the same frequency in the same region, else interferenc
Therefore, Government allocates spectrum among the service providers through auction
Feb 10: the national deworming day by health ministry.
Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd. Signed contract to supply 14 Dornier-228 aircraft to the Indian Air Force.
RK Gupta- the DRDO project director for nuke-capable Agni-V missle moved out.
Rising Swine flu cases. Union framing an action plan. Origin-Symptoms-treatment important for prelim
action plan for mains.
China has only one aircraft carrier ship - Laoning. But given the increased presence of US forces in the
under Obama's Asia-Pivot policy, the Chinese Government planning to induct more aircraft carrier ves
Ultra Wide Band (UWB) are popular for short and medium range communications. They use minimal s
minimal power and don't interfere with other communication services. Department of Space working o
main passive components of the Ultra Wide Band systems i.e. antenna and filter- on Silicon Subst
under Right to education Act, 11 categories of weaker sections eligible to 25% quota and free educati
private schools- including BPL, SC/ST and even HIV infected. For the first time, a private school in Ahm
ordered to give free education to an HIV-infected class-10 boy.
The inventor of contraceptive pills, Carl Djerassi died recently. So, principle behind the pill becomes im
for MCQ.
Defence Minister Parrikar says While we may not be able to produce latest defense equipment like de
countries, but still we've expertise to build and export hi-tech stuff to other developing countries who'
interested in buying ISRO's space-expertise after Mangalyan success.
As such India to spend 2 billion$ till 2020 for family planning. Yet, we are unlikely to achieve fifth Mille
Development Goals (MDG-5) of reducing maternal mortality to 109 per 1,00,000 live births by 2015. B
able to reduce total fertility rate (TFR) to 2.1 (right now 2.3.
The inventor of Laser & Nobel winner, Charles H. Townes died in USA recently. Hence laser principal an
application becomes important for UPSC. Laser applications: surgical instruments, bar code readers, C
etc.
Union Information and Broadcasting Minister says hardly any war documentaries made in India. Our w
needs to be popularised using the digital media.
As such heavy water is used in nuclear power station but, Gulf countries also use it for for oil explorat
Department of Atomic energy will begin such feasibility in India.
Brain: Short-term memory stored in "Pre-Fronta" and long term memory stored at Hippocampus, a hor
shaped paired structure.
Google to add a "health-related" feature in its search-engine. So, if you type "malaria", it'll show symp
treatments.
Government will vaccinate all the health workers dealing with H1N1 cases. And simultenously to reduc
workload of medical staff, Union home ministry declares new guidelines against swine flu.Patients are
classified into three categories. Category A: people with mild fever, headache etc. but do not require t
H1A1 And don't need to be hospitalised. Category B : those with high grade fever and high-risk catego
Category C: those with all symptoms of category a and B, and need to be hospitalised.
ultrathin sheets have thickness of just few atoms, and width of just few micrometers. They're made us
transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs). They haven numerous applications such as better rechargab
batteries, but at present TMD-manufacturing very expensive. Indian-American scientist Gurpreet Sing
lakh dollar "CAREER" award for pursuing this research.
Biocapsules are made of a polymer with size less than one militer. These capsules are filled with insul
antibiotics. Doctor places them placed on the infection site, and gives micro-shock waves through a h
machine. These shockwaves kill Staphylococcus bacteria and facilitate in drug-release from capsule. I
not needed anymore.
2019: worlds biggest solar telescope will be opened in Hawaii
INSV Mhadei sets record of sailing 1 lakh nautical miles. In 2010 and 2013, Indian navy officers have
circumnavigated the globe in this boat.
Royal British Navy's HMS Hermes had participated in the Falkland wars and in late-80s it was inducted
navy as INS-Viraat, the aircraft carrier. Navy planning to decomission it in 2016, because (a) expensive
work (2) its Sea Harrier aircrafts not much use in modern-combat.
10th Feb is National Deworming day by health ministry. To protect kids from 1 to 19 age from intestina
Albendazole tablets will be given to kids. These parasites can live throughout the body but prefer to li
intestinal wall. Kids get them via contaminated food, water and soil. Main-species: helminth, roundwo
hookworm. They give diarrhoea, abdominal pain, weakness and anaemia.
Government admits foreign agents committed Cyber-espionage against Indian Government servers bu
culprits yet to be identified.
CISF personnel are Responsible for the security of Delhi International airport. But Delhi airport not pay
their services since last seven months, hence their salary is entirely bourne by Government of India.
Raspeberry 2- the new more powerful edition of that Raspberry credit card sized computer. Ignored be
basics already done in old article
Nanogold particle usages (1) bind it to drug molecule using sulphur. Then drug can be delivered to an
body (2) if they're delivered to cancer site and then Infrared light is emittedthey get excited, hot & kil
cells because of "surface plasmon resonance" property. (3) can improve efficiency of solar cells (4) bre
down organic contaminants for water-purification.
Serum Institute of India, Pune will being production of Nasovac- the Swine flu (H1N1) vaccine soon. Th
egg-based, trivalent, live attenuated vaccine with shelf life of 1 year.
U.S. helicopter manufacturer Sikorsky says it'll produce S-70B Seahawk naval helicopters in "Make in
Government orders 120 multirole helicopters from them.
Women power in armed forces: After a lady officer gave guard of honor to Obama, after a contingent o
only armed forces parade during 26th Jan, now at Aero India show- two women are part of IAF's "Saran
Helicopter formation team.
Air Chief Marshal Arup Raha says Sukhoi is not a replacement for Rafale as their capabilities are differ
complement each other but do not replace each other.
Kalyani group to from JV with Rafael (Israel) for joint defense production (51-49 partnership)under "Ma
India".
Privthi-2 missile test fire. Full strike range 350 kms, nuke capable yes.
Albinism is a hereditary genetic condition. Result: No pigmentation in skin, eyes and hairs. 1 out of 14
Tanzanians have Albinism- mostly due to inbreeding. Idiotic Tanzanian Mobs kills such people and sell
bodyparts for $600-$75,000 for witchcrating. UN Human rights commissioner has condemned this pra
70% liquid drugs in India are sold in plastic (PET) bottles. But polyethylene terephthalate (PET) interac
drug molecules, releases bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates that can reduce immunity, induce miscarri
abnormal DNA-birth defects etc. Hence Delhi doctors demanding ban on using PET bottles in pharma c
Diarrhea and pneumonia are the biggest reasons for under-5 child mortality in India. Bihar ranks the to
recommends only oral rehydration salts (ORS) for diarrhea. Nothing else. But a new study revealed, m
Indian health workers and pediatricians give other unnecessary drugs and antibiotics, sometimes even
checking the child patient. Hardly 4% give correct treatment. Hence so many deaths.
Limpets are small aquatic creatures. There have teeth are so strong, its structure can be copied to ma
boats and planes of the future.
Low density lipoprotein (L.D.L) Cholesterol creates fat-deposits in blood vessels. Later on if coronary a
blocked- you get heart attack. If vessel supplying blood to brain gets affected then you get stroke. Now
binding cholesterol lowering Statin drugs with AC2-26 nanoparticles to prevent this clotting
To cure MDR and XDR TB, scientists binding polymers with antibiotic-nanoparticles. Polymer will bind t
in body and nanoparticile will release the drug. This "personalized" targeted drug delivery will help fas
recovery from TB.
ATP molecule acts as a storehouse of energy and fuels the physiological activities. Similar molecule IP
responsible for energy, DNA-repair, blood-cloting and other processes in the cell. IP7 made up of suga
phospate groups. Scientists believe its DNA-repair mechanism can be used to cure cancer.
Scientists baffled by plumes rising 250 kms above mars surface. Scientists to use satellites over 700 k
check ocean acidification.
Russian Irkut Corp's Su-30 MKIs are manufactured in HAL's Nasik plant. Yak-130 combat trainer.
Aero India 2015: held at Bengaluru. Focus: Make in India- for aerospace, defence, civil aviation and a
infrastructure in line with the governments mantra.
Dakota-3- this aircraft played crucial role in Bangladesh liberation war. IAF donated Dakota-3, Twin Ott
and Aloutte-3 helicopter to Bangladeshi Airforce.
Government aims to create a 'tri-services chief' known as Chief of Defence Staff (CDS). Most countries
official with overall perspective of 3 services and direct liaison with the President. At present we've CIS
Integrated Defence Staff)- 3 star post headed by Air Marshal P.P. Reddy. The three Services chiefs are
Pakistan Army launched Operation Zarbe-azab against Taliban in Federally Administered Tribal Areas
They aim to finish it before end of 2015, Then begin reconstruction and rehabilitation of people.
IMA warns that Tamiflu is not an Over-the-counter (OTC) precautionary drug for Swine flu. Unless you h
positive, you must not take it.
New research says People who are insecure in their relationships are more actively engaged on Facebo
other social networking sites. This tendency is called feedback seeking behavior.
Malnutrition levels are high among Children's of migrant workers, says a new study.
internet penetration (1) first world saturated (2) China many restriction, so all tech-giants looked at In
Internet business to cover 600 million indians and 7% of India's GDP in 2020. so, to get junta hooked u
net, 3 initiatives (1) Facebook-Anil Ambani tieup for Internet.org to give free access to limited sites in
mobile phones + solar-powered internet drones in future (2) Google to beam internet using helium ba
working on google fiber to give 100 times faster net than broadband (3) microsoft to get unused telev
spectrum from doordarshan to launch "white-fi" internet.
International Epilepsy Day celebrated on February 9. Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that is treated
medication. It's not a contagious disease, it does not spread by touch.
Rajasthan State Government aims to launch health insurance scheme for people covered under food S
act. Critics argue This is a ploy to handover public health care system to private clinics (because Gove
will simply pay money to beneficiary irrespective of whether he gets treated at a public hospital or a p
hospital.) need of the hour is hosting the public health Infrastructure. And since Modi's factory labou
where previously inspired from Rajasthan State government, critiques fear same model will be replica
India level under the proposed national health assurance scheme.
Achuthanandan and Vaiko to launch joint campaign against the proposed India-based Neutrino Observ
(INO) at Theni, alleging it'll harm both people and environment. Dharna 'specialist' Medha Patkar also
Union Government defends (1) no weapons or radioactive material in this lab (2) deliberately set unde
prevent instruments from cosmic radiation. (3) tunnels won't harm dam or ecology.
Mars one projects aims to setup permanent human settlement at Mars. Kerala's Dr. Lekha Menon Mar
selected through contest, she'll be shipped in 2024.
Automotive emergency braking (AEB)- Use a short distance low-power radar operation at 76-77 Ghz fr
to automatically brakes on the car during emergency. Same way blindspot detection apps work in 24-8
frequency. Automobile companies are requesting the Department of Telecom delicense This frequency
bandwidth so that such safety measures can be implemented in more number of cars and mid and low
segment.
Thailand bans surrogacy by foreign couples after a couple refuses to take away their 'baby' born with
syndrome and overall moral degeneration of women's body into 'rental-wombs'. Perhaps India should
Apple Inc. planning to build electric cars, even poaching experts from noted automobile companies, sa
leaked report.
India Russia jointly want to build 400 fifth generation aircrafts (FGFA) but research phase agreement y
sorted out between HAL and its Russian counterpart. Hopefully matter will resolve after this year's Rus
Pranab and Modi.
INS Sindhugosh's periscope damaged during an exercise, because of a fishing vessel near mumbai co
In 1347, Black plague killed 1/3rd of European population. Till now scientists believed Black rats carrie
bacteria, Yersinia pestis. But new research says due climate change even other mammals such as gre
and marmots also harbored this bacteria.
NASA astronauts complete spacewalks to setup a "parking spot" for Boeing and SpaceX spacecraft at
International Space Station (ISS).
An Israeli company "Sesame Enable" is Designing handsfree smartphone that works by tracking the h
movements of users. This will be of great help to disabled people, particularly with spinal cord injuries
IISc Bangalore researchers produce a superior water filter using Polymer Reverse osmosis (RO) Nanom
(using PVDF and PMMA material). RO membranes now require less pressure to produce pure water. Plu
titanium dioxide and carbon nanotubes are embedded on membrane to kill E. coli bacteria. (1) Silver k
bacteria by damaging its cell protein integrity (2) Titanium Dioxide works best in presence of UV light
nanotubes kill the bacteria through direct physical contact.
AIIMS and allied bodies released a book Voice of Conscience From the Medical Profession. It details t
unethical practices- private hospitals deliberately give targets to its employee-doctors to prescribe su
patient even if it's unnecessary- to raise the hospital bill.
The UNICEF and the Indian Medical Association have joined hands to train doctors on how to treat chil
abuse (CSA) victims.
WHO requests nations to switch over to smart syringes" to stop the menace of Hepatitis and AIDS. Sm
syringes don't work after single use. This prevents spread of diseases through needle-sharing.
Smokers die 10 years sooner says a report.
Chemical ministry to celebrate 2015 as "Year of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients, with focus on "ma
India" so we become self-reliant on bulk drug production, instead of importing from China. Governmen
setup "Katoch" Committee to bulk drug issues. It gave report, but yet to be implemented.
Govt. to celebrate Internet Safety Week from 10th to 17th February 2015. CERT, google an Mygov will
internet safety, particularly for children and youngsters.
Russian Federal Space Agency (Roscosmos) planning to build its own space outpost similar to Internat
Space Station (ISS). ROSCOSMOS will stop its modules to ISS after 2024. At present Russia is the only
that can ferry humans to ISS using its Soyuz rockets.
French company Gemalto makes 2 billion SIM CARDS a year. Ex-NSA-operative Edward Snowden claim
spy agencies have hacked that sim maker company to moniter call-texts-emails made from mobiles.
Alaska becomes 3rd US state to legalize marijuana
The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) clears (1) buying Pilatus basic trainer aircraft from Switzerland
building Mine Countermeasure Vessels (MCMV) @Goa Shipyard (3) HTT-40 trainer aircraft from HAL.
IIT-Jodhpur analyzed big data about Indian cuisine, and revealed that Western recipes work on "positiv
i.e. combining similar tasting ingredients while Indian recipes rely on negative food pairings where dis
flavoured ingredients are combined in a recipe.
Consumer affairs ministry requires even cosmetic products to put red / green dot label to notify wheth
vegetarian or non-veg. One pharma giant Reckitt Benckiser goes to court saying this goes against dru
cosmetic act provisions.
Even children from well to do Indian families are shorter and smaller than Sub Saharan kids because I
mothers have less body mass during pregnancy. India needs to come out with national guidelines for h
weight gain during pregnancy.
Peshawar police arrests over 450 parents for not allowing polio workers to vaccinate their children.
Gilead Science blockbuster Hepatitis-C drug "Sovaldi" sells for $1,000 a pill. Hence unaffordable by m
developing countries. Finally NATCO Natco Pharma signed deal with Gilead to sell generic copies of thi
91 developing nations and pay 7% royalty to Gilead
Under national numbering plan 2003, the Department of telecom has reserved 111 to 115 numbers a
But Vodafone using 111. TRAI orders vodafone to stop this.
New data from Census 2011: childbirth declining every year and as a result child sex ratio also declini
because (1) people stop having more babies as soon as they got a son and (2) sex-selective abortion
ISRO postpones launching of IRNSS-1D navigation satellite due to technical snag.
Sun Pharmaceutical's Dilip Shanghvi becomes richest Indian ($21.5 billion). Forbes wealthiest people i
Dilip rank 37, Mukesh Ambani ranks 43rd. Azim Premji 48th.
Fulgurites are glassy products formed in rocks and sediments. They are made up of volcanic ash melte
lightning.
Researcher working on Oral swab technique to detect TB. Although no "final product" or funky abbrevi
launched. Hence ignored.
~13.8 billion years ago, universe originated after a big bang. But New theory says there was no there
Bang and the universe existed all along, without beginning or end.
Researchers working on a chikungunya vaccine that is based on a measles vaccine virus. Final produc
launched.
Cloud Self-Organised Learning Environment (SOLE) facility in India and US. In SOLE method, children a
self-organized groups and self study with help of computers, with minimal rules.
America is worried by satellite-jamming capabilities and anti-satellite missiles being developed by Chi
Americans will raise this matter during 1st India-US space security dialogue and perhaps try for a glob
code/treaty on use of outer space in a safe manner.
2.8-million-year old jawbone of a Homo habilis (Handy Man) found in Ethiopia. Researchers Believe ov
years, H.Habilis species split further into H. erectus and Homo-sapiens (modern Man)
American engineers wired mini-computers into cockroach's nervous system, to control its movements
insect-bots can (1) go into small places, detect environment 2) escape predators and move through d
than human design mechanical robots. Although controlling biological organisms through artificial me
'ethical' concerns.
Health Ministry to celebrate International Womens Day as Safe Motherhood Day: free check-ups fro
10th March 2015. 40-60 years women will get breast cancer test, 30-60 years women will get cervical
tests. Pregnant women will get Mother and Child Protection (MCP) cards. Family planning services and
nutritional advice free of cost to all.
ISRO to carry out a test flight of Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV-TD) by mid-2015. It uses solid boosters
spacecraft and later detaches and falls into sea where it can be recovered for future use. This will help
cost of space missions.Topic Ignored till something concrete happens.
Space-X falcon 9 rocket launches world's first 2 all electric satellites into orbit for private companies E
and ABS. Conventional satellites use chemical propulsion system, while these two were all electric, he
much less energy, thereby reducing cost of operation. But downside is, they take much longer time to
orbid.
Bhavani- Women safety portable device designed by Dr. Pavan Kohli and launched by Nirbhaya's pare
Feature: 2 foot collapsible batton, non-lethal stun gun, 10-foot range pepper spray, panic-button with
locator that'll SMS to 5 relatives and police.
Home Ministry has given in-principle approval for recruitment of women officers in the Indo-Tibetan Bo
(ITBP). So from next round of CAPF exam, UPSC will notify vacancies accordingly. ITBP guards ~3500 k
China border at high altitudes along the Himalayan ranges.
Country with largest open defecation (1) India of course (2) Indonesia (3) Pakistan. UNICEF says over
Pakistani don't have access to toilet, therefore stunted growth & low Human development.
After Facebook acquired Oculus Virtual reality for $2 billion, Google deploys a team to build Android O
system for Virtual reality applications, and it will be distributed free of cost. Google hopes this move w
capture the market just like it did in android powered smartphones.
Frances Parliament working on a bill, that'll allow Terminally ill patients to opt for heavy sedatives to u
"deep sleep" until they die. Critics say this amounts to euthanasia in disguise.
Modi launches "3-dose ROTAVAC" vaccine. This is India's first indigenously developed and manufactur
rotavirus vaccine for children under 5, with help of US. Rotavirus kills ~80k kids every year in India. W
supply this Vaccine to other low income countries for $1 a dose, It will also promote "make in India".
People with "A" bloodgroup are more vulnerable to malaria because plasmodium parasite damages th
makes these red blood cells clump (Rosettes) to vessel walls and thereby obstructing blood flow and e
causing death- says a new report.
Relative Humidity is the ratio between amount of water vapour present in air vs. the amount of water
air can hold. During high temperature high relative humidity scenario, human body tries to control te
by evaporating moisture as per commands from hypothalamus. But since outside air already has high
humidity, it cannot hold any more moisture, hence sweat doesn't evaporate quickly, therefore it appe
are sweating more profusely during high humid climate.
Mutation is a permanent change of the nucleotide sequence of the genome of an organism. MIT resea
the H1N1 Swine flu virus has undergone mutation in India, thus it has become easier to spread, more
difficult to cure.
One Rank One pension to be implemented from 1/4/2015.
Medical Termination of Pregnancy (MTP) Amendment Draft Bill proposes to allow ayurvedacharyas, ho
and nurses to conduct abortions. Indian Medical Association (IMA) is against this move, saying it'll put
lives in danger.
Minesweeper vessel INS Alleppey (bought from Russia in 70s) got decommissioned. Now we're left wit
minesweeper vessels.
Pakistan developing indigenous Drone named Barraq (flying horse) and laser guided missile for that d
named "Barq" (lightening)
Pharma Jan Samadhan: an online portal where public can file complaint about (1) overpriced medicine
shortage of medicines (3) sale of medicine without approval of NPPA. National Pharmaceutical Pricing
(NPPA) will begin action with 48 hours. Overall, matter falls under chemical-fertilizer ministry.
Largest defence importers of 2014. number 1 is S.Arabia. Then India, China, UAE, Taiwan etc. in the pr
year, India was 1st largest importer.
Astra: Indigenously developed Beyond Visual Range air-to-air missile. It can be launched from Sukhoi-
fighter aircraft. This is the smallest of the missiles developed by DRDO - just 3.8-metre long, uses solid
propellant, can carry a 15kg warhead. It can chase enemy aircraft at supersonic speeds . Has high Sin
Kill Probability (SSKP) and smokeless propulsion. It can be launched from different altitudes with diffe
modes. It can be launched from Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) as well.
Group of first world scientists want voluntary moratorium that no scientist will indulge in wanton editin
human genome. Because only then we can guard against eugenics and designer babies. Otherwise, it
to create superior humans for rich people- with blue eyes, Athletic build and other physical abilities by
the genomes of Human embryos. Although Same Genome-editing technology can correct disease-gen
HIV/AIDS, haemophilia, sickle-cell anaemia and many forms of cancer
In insects gaseous exchange takes place by diffusion. O2 and Co2 get circulated via muscular contrac
relaxations. So, when insect larva is planted inside plant / animal, they breathe through the skin.
Dengue virus is spread through Aedes aegypti and Aedes albopictus mosquitoes. Australian researche
Wolbachia bacteria in these mosquitoes. Result? It decreases dengue virus's ability to pass from mosq
saliva to human body.
The Uttar Pradesh government has asked teachers not to befriend their students on social media such
Facebook and WhatsApp to prevent incidents sexual harassment.
(1) Among all the nations that ask Facebook to block content, India ranks the highest. 6000 informatio
blocked on facebook, by request of Indian govt. last year.
World's top arms exporters (1) China (2) USA (3) Russia.
As such human immune system can stop breathed TB bacteria from multiplying. Such people are calle
infected" However, they don't feel sick or show symptops or spread TB. But if person suffering HIV, dia
mellitus, malnutrition or taking anti-cancer, corticosteroid and other immunosuppressant drugs, then
fight against TB infection. Such people are called TB diseased patients, each of them capable of infect
more.
ISRO Mars Orbitor Mission (MOM)'s planned lifespan was 6 month. It was to end on 24rd March 2015. I
2015, ISRO's Mars orbiter will be in 15 day blackout because Sun will block the communication betw
and Earth. During this period, the orbiter will take autonomous decision, thus will consume more fuel.
on how much fuel is left, MOM will be operational for some more weeks. Factoids: [+] MOM survived V
belt 39 times. It's world first spacecraft to enter Mars orbit in first attempt. MOM won Space pioneer a
2015, by US National Space agency while ISRO won Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and
Development.
Home ministry aims to setup India's first counter terrorism school in Rajasthan.
US scientists want to send robotic submarine to Saturn's moon titan. To explore oily season Titan, whic
liquid form of methane and ethane, instead of water. Titan resembles a deep frozen version of Earth, h
hydrocarbons exist in liquid form..
WHO celebrates 7th April as World Heath Day. This year's theme "Food safety". Unsafe food and water
lakh children per year in South-East Asia Region because most these countries don't enforce food safe
due to rampant corruption.
Bina48: It's a cyber-clone of a lady named Bina Aspen. Created after interviewing the person for over
understand her mental makeup. Robot version has only face and torso, made up of "frubber" skin. She
conversation, tweet and express ideas. Benefit: allows a person's conscious to live forever, even after
of real person.
Home minister aims for 33% participation of women in CRPF, the BSF, the CISF, the ITBP, the SSB and
while Defense minister says 38 nations send their defense personnel for training in India, and soon en
even export our defense equipment to these countries.
HAL to finish developing Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) by 2017. This Twin engine armed heli will be u
Army and Airforce. Cheetahs and the Chetaks are single engine, unarmed and outdated. But LCH is no
their replacement.
Assam Rifles completes 180 years on 24/03/2015. Considered India's oldest paramilitary force. Particip
WW1, WW2, Indo-China war, Indo-Pak wars, Op. Pawan (Sri Lanka), Op. Rakshak (Sri Lanka), and comb
insurgency in North East ast. nicknamed Friends of the NE people, because it also implements Border
Development program,education, vocational skills and healthcare. DG: RK Rana
Cable Television Networks Rules, 1994 updated by I&B ministry. TV channels are now forbidden from d
coverage of anti-terror operations. They can only report what is briefed by authorized Government offi
Delhi HC junks a PIL wanting to screen all visitors to Delhi. Reasons (1) impractical (2) man-money con
administration. (3) impractical to hold the persons till test results arrive. Court criticizes such PIL-walla
in Utopian world.
French company Dassault gives upgraded Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft to the Indian Air Force. The dea
signed in 2011. These upgraded planes are almost new, with shelf life of 10-15 years, helmet mounte
and electronic warfare suites and other fancy things included
Alexander Fleming first discovered peniciline antibiotic and won Nobel in 1945. But indiscriminate use
antibiotic makes the bacteria resistant to them. researchers found [+] highly corrupt countries have m
resistant bacteria and deaths because lax implementation of food and drug laws. [+] growing deman
from developing country = more antibiotics given to animals to quickly fatten them up. Result- more d
resistance.
Jeevan Dhara is Rajasthans first State-run human milk bank. Will collect excess breast milk from lacta
mothers and provide it to needy infants. Such facilities already opened in USA, and even online sale is
unregulated sector means HIV, Hep.C, Syphillis etc disease can creep in. State run bank will ensure qu
checks.
Periscope is the name of Twitter application to stream live videos via your mobile phone's camera. It c
instantly turn any civilian into global reporter. This app is meant to compete against another app calle
Indira Gandhi Matritva Sahyog Yojana (IGMSY). Launched in 2010. By Women Child ministry. Provides p
wage compensation to pregnant and lactating women. 6,000 x 3 installments, and entitlements food
act- for first 2 children. Except for women working in Government / PSU jobs. But a survey suggest les
30% eligible women got benefit. reasons (1) junta unaware of misinformed. (2) requires no-frills zero b
account, which many women don't have in tribal areas. End result, IMR=40/1k and MMR=167/1 lakh li
We can't meet the MDG goal of reducing MMR by 75% or IMR by 66%.
To setup the desi-Desi (IRSNSS) ,ISRO launches 4th satellite IRNSS 1-D using PSLV C-27 (XL) launch ve
the Satish Dhawan Space Centre at Sriharikota. Total 7 satellite needed for this desi-GPS to function in
capacity. This was 4th one. Ignored because basics already done in old article.
Net neutrality principle requires ISPs not to give advantage to one type of traffic over the other. Violat
(1) Airtel's decision to charge extra money on its mobile-internet users IF they use skype to make free
internet. Although later decision taken back. (2) Facebook launches internet.org initiative in India with
Anil Ambani's Reliance communication. We are 6th country in the world to be covered under facebook
internet' scheme. Basic idea is- every reliance phone subscribe will get free internet access to facebo
wikipedia etc selected sites. Criticism: Neutrality principle is violated because other similar social netw
sites / and knowledge sites will not get visitors. Because junta given 'free internet' only for a selected
sites allied with Facebook. So in a way, facebook misusing its dominant position via this "zero-rating"
strategy. Net Neutrality developments so far: Government setsup AK Bhargava Committee for examin
Neutrality" Jan-W4. Report awaited.[+] TRAI sought views from companies (March-W4). [+] 18% declin
usage due to Over the top (OTT) services such as Whatsapp and Viber. Although mobile companies m
money through increased income in mobile internet data plans. Although OTTS so far not affecting vo
because our call rates are relatively cheaper.
Defence Acquisition Council (chairman: Defense minister) approved following: [+] Maitri project to co-
Short Range Surface-to-Air Missile (SR-SAM) using DRDO (India) and MBDA (France). As such MoU sign
2013, but no process because DRDO was developing Akash missile system. But now realized Akash on
Army and Airforce, but not for Navy. [+] Kamov-28 antisubmarine helicopters for Navy. [+] DRDO to d
indigenous Airborne Warning and Control Systems (AWACS). Aircraft with AWACS radars can give seam
degree coverage of the airspace. At present we have 3 such systems bought from Israel. [+] Harpoon
missiles for Navy's HDW Submarines.
Oscar winning movie "The theory of Everything" was made on British physicist Stephen Hawking. He s
from Motor neuron disease. Now Dr. Hawking aim to get his name trademarked just like J.K. Rowling a
Beckham, so if any Company uses his name on commercial products, he gets money and even after h
his children/foundation keeps getting the money
DRDO tests a new interceptor missile. It'll becom part of India's 2-tier Ballistic Missile Defence system
important cities from enemy missile. So far testing Successful for endo-atmosphere (below 40 km altit
three in exo-atmosphere (above 80 km).
Earlier Government aimed to increase pictographic warning on cigarette covers- from present 40% to
was to be implemented from 1st April 2015, but health ministry did not notify the guidelines yet. Reas
Parliamentary Committee on subordinate legislation for tobacco products, has asked them not to publ
the stakeholders consulted for amendments. Anti-arguments [+] MPs giving bogus arguments like no
evidence to prove that smoking causes cancer, and bidi contains too low nicotine to cause cancer! [+
politics for bidi-tobacco farmers who can't cultivate any other crops [+] Tobacco corporate industry's
funding. Anti-Tobacco drive [+] Maharashtra makes gutkha selling a non-bailable offense. [+] Delhi als
gutkha selling but no implementation on ground.
Kerala HC says state Government's decision to limit the sale of liquor only to 5 star hotels is right. Sta
Government aims to gradually put prohibition, otherwise Kerala is the most drunk state of India. Ignor
basics already covered in old article under polity section.
BRCA1 and BRCA2 human genes used for diagnosing breast and ovarian cancers. (BRCA= BReast CAn
woman has mutation (fault) in BRCA 1 or 2= higher risk of breast/ovarian cancer. Angelina Jolie detect
positive, so she earlier removed her breasts via double mastectomy (2013). Now she removed her ova
fallopian tubes (2015), saying she doesn't want to die of cancer. Side angles [+] in mid 90s, Myriad Ge
pantent for this test. Later US court rejected patent saying human genes can't be patents. Then Myria
patented in Australia. (2014) [+] Jolie's media coverage =more women opt for this expensive test and
organs removed even if there is no real and present danger.
March 24: World TB day.[+] India got highest TB burden- 1000 dead per dead, 3 lakh dead per year, 2
new cases added per year. 1 lakh+ Multidrug resistant TB cases. Yet we spend ~28$ per patient- lowe
BRICS. [+] Women most hurt because can't get quality treatment. [+] Overcrowding, malnutrition cata
spread. Many patients undocumented, untreated; {---New development---} Indian Medical Association
aims following [+] private doctors must immediately notify TB patients to concerned officials. [+] TB p
should be simultaneously tested for HIV free of cost.
1995: Gandhi Peace Prize setup for social, economic and political transformation through non-violence
crore rupees given. ISRO given this prize for 2014 for its work on space technology that has helped in
healthcare, communication, agriculture, disaster management, telemedicine and many other things.
Health minister launches Mission Indradhanush: for vaccination against 7 preventable disease by 202
diseases are diphtheria, whooping cough, tetanus, polio, tuberculosis, measles and hepatitis B. plus o
universal immunization program to include 3 more vaccines against rotavirus, rubella and polio. Every
more kids will be covered. First phase main focus on most bogus districts in four states of UP, Bihar, M
Pradesh and Rajasthan. Cold storage and constant surveillance on vaccines.
CSIR develops a biodegradable dispersing agent that can help in chrome tanning of lather. This techni
50% less water than traditional method
A hyderabad start-up company working on world's first interactive haptic footwear called "Lechal". (hi
me along). Just like the wearable smart watch track movement, this footware will contain a smartchip
data and help you move towards destination. This will greatly help blind people.
Project 75 aims to develop submarine with joint India-France collaboration. Six screened submarine in
at Mazagon Dock. First submarine is named Kalvari, the Tiger shark. Features of Scorpene submarines
more stealthy and can dive deeper than others. They're loaded with precision guided weapons, anti-sh
missiles, and torpedoes. Multiple utility- anti-ship, anti-submarine, intelligence gathering, mine laying
surveillance etc. They'll help in making "Blue water navy"- a force capable of operating in deep ocean
theatres simultaneously.
CERN restart Large Hadron Collider (LHC) project. Ignored because basics already covered in way old a
Dilip Gandhi, BJP MP and head of the panel on subordinate legislation for tobacco control. He owns bid
business and even said tobacco doesn't cause cancer therefore, no need to increase pictorial size to 8
packet. Modi says its fault of parliament ethics Committee that such person with vested interest it put
panel.
Imported medical devices are very expensive and Constitute upto 75% of patient's bill in complex dise
Earlier President Dr.Kalam had developed Kalam-Raju Stent that could be produced for ~5000 rupees.
small tube that can strengthen weak arteries. But His product did not receive enough recognition or p
India should focus on such medical devices in "Make in India".
X-ray radiation causes damage to skin and even leads to cancer. So scientists came up with Linear No
(LNT) hypothesis. It says response to radiation is proportional to dose without a threshold. In other wo
very small amount of radiation can cause damage. However, new research doubts this hypothesis, an
says sometimes small dose is beneficial for cell adaptation.
Factoid#1: Radar uses high frequency radio waves. They're electromagnetic waves, can travel long di
air because they're not much absorbed by air molecules. However, Radar sent in water, then it can ha
beyond meter because water will absorb those electromagnetic waves. Therefore, we can't use radar
objects in water. Factoid#2: Sonar uses high frequency sound waves. They're mechanical waves, they
energy even after traveling long distance in water. So we use Sonar to track objects in water.
2016: Wikipedia will become 15 years old. Its birth destroyed the business of paper book version of
Encyclopaedia Britannica. A Wiki is a webpage with easy editing and Content Management facility, th
novice users to quickly build. Wikipedia has >24 million contributors ,but problem of vandalism and m
even after strict user controls and moderation.
NeHA portal: National eHealth Authority, By union health Ministry. It will provide centralised online dat
medical history, lab reports of all patients across India. That way even if patient changes doctor, he ne
undergo all medical tests again. It will sell considerable amount of money and time wasted otherwise.
Lt.Cmdr M.S. Kohli led the first Indian expedition to climb Mount Everest. 2015 Mark's 50th anniversa
accomplishment. So, Army will send a 30-member team to clean up 4000 kg of non-biodegradable wa
Mt. Everest, under Modi's Swatch Bharat mission.
2015's first Lunar eclipse on 4th April. Although not visible in North East.
UPA Government enacted defense offset policy 2005. If a foreign mfg. enters deal over Rs.300 crores
has to reinvest 30% of the money Contact money in India. Modi planning to relax this norm, to boost F
promote make in India.
In USA, number "911"is meant for handling all types of emergencies. But in India, we've 100 for police
fire, 102/108 for ambulance and so on. Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) recommends to s
system of only one emergency number "112". It'll deal with all emergency services in the country. TRA
setup Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) to route calls from 112 to police, ambulance etc.
Law Commission 256th report, to end Discrimination of leprosy patients (aka Hensen's disease). 1980
multidrug therapy programme to treat leprosy. 2005: Leprosy cases on rise again, every year new 1.3
cases, because public Expenditure shifted towards AIDS and cancer. India has 58% of world patients [+
Lepers Act permits segregation of lepers into separate asylums. Later, many state laws also permit a
to forcefully take them to Leper colonies and mental Institutions. [+] Leprosy is even a valid ground fo
under personal laws of India. [+] LIC charges higher higher premium rates from persons with leprosy.
banned from Contesting election in local bodies in many states. [+] Law commission gives a bill to en
discriminations against leprosy victims, Remove the word "Leper" and Provide them reservation under
disabled category, right to driving license, school admission, job, free legal aid etc. [+] NHRC Chairma
corporate houses to adopt leprosy colonies.
Achievements of CSIR's national aerospace laboratory. [+] DHVANI (Detection and Hit Visuali
Net Neutrality: TRAI consultation paper proposes that Viber, Whatsapp etc. are Over-the-Top (OTT) Ser
then TRAI may try to regulate them by issuing license similar to spectrum. This will kill startup compan
innovation. Ignored because it's still a consultation paper and no final verdict is reached. [+] Airtel lau
"Airtel Zero" program, under which, if a web-company agrees to pay money on behalf of people, Airte
that site free to its mobile customers without charging any money for data usage. This goes against th
the net neutrality because start-up companies cannot of course such model, and facebook-youtube et
corner all the visitors with lure of free access from mobile. [+] Flipkart decides not to join Airtel Zero, a
opposition in Social media. Although Airtel maintains that it'll be a toll free data service, it is not mean
countering Net neutrality. [+] Chile, the Netherlands, Brazil have already adopted Net neutrality. USA
internet as public utility and thereby believes the net neutrality. [+] Essay Topic: Debate on net neutra
disguised debate on the principle of a free market.
E-gov: Lucknow police launches an "Octcacopter" drone with 8 cameras and ability to spray pepper an
powder on rioting mob. And, Public CCTV project Nazar Ek Ummed and Drishti.
Indian Medical Association (IMA) asks Doctors to [+] prescribe only cheapest generic drugs but withou
compromising on quality. [+] Doctors shall write drugs with generic name in capital letters, and the na
pharmaceutical company or the brand in brackets. [+] Hopefully combined this with Centres Jan Aush
Scheme to sell generic medicines, we can hope people will get cheaper drugs in India
After SC revoked Section 66A from IT Act, Security agencies are worried that crooks will indulge in ant
antinational activities on Internet e.g. last year baseless rumor mongering led to riots in UP and migra
North Eastern people from rest of India. Therefore, Government has setup a special Committee under
Prasad to look into the issue and suggests suitable amendment to Indian penal code (IPC).
[+] BSF will get Russian built Mi-17 V5 medium lift choppers. They'll help moving troops and supplies
anti-naxal operations, even during night. [+] India successfully test-fired the nuclear capable Dhanus
It's a naval variant of Prithvi 3 Missile.
[+] A survey says 50%+ Indians do self-medication on advice of chemists or internet, instead
Silicosis is a fibrotic lung disorder caused by inhalation of crystalline silica / quartz by from mining, sto
crushing, quarrying, gem cutting etc. activities. and quarrying activities. Over 30 lakh workers affecte
Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Delhi and Karnataka. NHRC report 2011 asked for refor
masks, medical facilities, insurance etc. for the workers and necessary amendments in relevant factor
acts. But ground realities not changed much.
IRNSS-1D reaches its space home. Ignored because basics of IRNSS Desi GPS already
Indian pharma cos working on "candidate drugs for malaria, osteoporosis and diabetes. Ignored beca
nothing concrete out yet.
Present limits in FDI: 49% Automatic, 75% if foreign firm agrees for technology transfer. 100%
technology involved. {---Pro-FDI arguments---} Desi PSU, DRDO et al failed to meet targets. P
companies more efficient in deadlines and they can generate more jobs, transfer some of the
technology to India. [+] Else we'll have to import hardware worth over 200 billion$ in upcomin
{---Anti-FDI---} Foreign companies always looking for repeat orders. Since this is difficult in mi
hardware they're usually averse to transferring technology to India. [+] For example, Indian g
30% offset requirement on Foreign defense contracts. (50% for high-value contracts). Meanin
supplier must spend 30% the contracted value within India through local manufacture and se
This also demotivates foreign companies. Same reason MiG series, the Jaguar, and various Fre
helicopters were made in India but not much technology transferred to India. [+] we must foc
Made by India rather than Make in India.
Apollo Hospitals designs OncoCollect software to track cancer treatment and costs.
Indian-origin researchers have developed a new car safety system that can anticipates what the drive
to do a few seconds in advance. This will help accidents and traffic violations.
Kyasanur Forest Disease virus(KFDV) is found in Kyasanur Forest in Karnataka. 1957- first time the viru
from monkey. [+] Hosts: Rodents, shrews, and monkeys. [+] Reservoirs: Hard ticks (Hemaphysalis spin
They get virus via suck blood from hosts. [+] Animals infected: goats, cows, sheep. But themselves do
transmit the infection much. [+] Can human get this disease? Yes (1) if bitten by ticks (2) if contact of
infected animals. But one infected human cannot infect another human. It doesn't get transmitted via
unpasteurised milk. Why in news? Because National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Delhi began
investigating the outbreak of KFDV in Goa.
INS Visakhapatnam is Navys stealth destroyer under project 15B [+] Admiral R. K. Dhowan's wife Min
launched it. [+] made with the help of SAIL & Mazgaon Docks Limited. [+] 70% components are indige
propulsion system imported from Russia. [+] Will be fully operational in 2018.
ChihiraAico in Toshiba's android operated Robot receptionist in Tokyo mall to welcome customers. At p
cannot answer any questions but only recite the recorded audio.
Maglev (magnetic levitation) train is propelled by electrically charged magnets, hence it hovers 10 cm
tracks instead of touching them. Topic in news, because Japanese Maglav train crossed 600 kmph mar
Mt.Fuji. By 2045, maglev trains are expected to link Tokyo and Osaka in ~1 hour.
[+] TRAI receives millions of mails to protect net neutrality. . But TRAI published their entire email data
online- making them susceptible to spamming and frauds. Hacktivists launch Distributed Denial of Ser
(DDoS) Attack on the TRAI website, to force TRAI To remove the data. But no progress. [+] Flipkart, Cle
Times Group and NDTV decide not to join Facebook-led Internet.org, in order to placate the advocates
neutrality'. [+] Mark Zuckerberg advocates that net neutrality and universal connectivity (through zer
free access to selected sites) can coexist. Because if someone cant afford to pay for connectivity, it is
better to have some access than none at all. [+] Net Neutrality advocates want to prevent prevent the
disadvantaged people in society from gaining access to internet. [+] if digital divide is reduced, socia
will increase.
George de HEVESY won Nobel Chemistry prize (1943) for his research on isotops. Professor Susanta La
Saha Institute of Nuclear Physics, Kolkata, received the Hevesy Medal Award 2015 for his lifelong con
Radio analytical research. He is a co-creator of super heavy element 117
Rosetta Mission scientists found that comet 67P/Churyumov-Gerasimenko may not have a magnetic fi
How knuckle cracking produces popping sound? New research says this happens because when joint
suddenly separate due to distraction force (or pulling force) and there is less amount of synovial fiuid
suddenly expanded joint volume. Thus a cavity or bubble is formed, and sound is produced
Delhi Police becomes first law enforcement agency in the world to offer the online registration of crim
They've Created an e-police station under Crime Branch for registration theft cases via a mobile-cum-
[+] Delhi police also running "Op. Milap initiative" to trace missing children.
Pharma Jan Samadhan: for redressal related to medincine e.g. overpriced, refusal to sell, new drug wit
approval etc.
Google comes up with new web utility Find my phone. So, if you misplace your phone in car/house, It
you get an approximate location. [+] "Google Handwriting Input" app launched. It allows users to writ
smartphone, Even with their fingers. Can interpret letters from 82 languages and transforms them int
digital text. Users can use their fingers as well to write [+] At present electronic power adapters are m
according to the European and Korean designs. But BIS wants them to shift to Indian standards. electr
hardware industry seeks more time to adopt this reform. [+] India ranks second in cyber attacks throu
media
NASAs New Horizons spacecraft sends first colour image of the dwarf planet Pluto and its largest moo
AIIMS doctors use laser to destroy specific brain area responsible for uncontrolled epilepsy. This is the
applied technique and it was minimal surgery using endoscope And just a single stitch. Good for child
uncontrolled epilepsy.
Uttarakhand government plans to use the radio-frequency identification (RFID) technology to track pil
will help in quicker delivery of food/water/supplies. And quicker rescue during disasters using Geograp
Information System (GIS)-based mapping application.
Goa Psychiatrist Vikram Patel named in Times annual list of the 100 most influential people in the wo
research on linking mental disorders and poverty in third world Countries.
Google coverers 90% of online search engine traffic. Gmail is the second most used e-mail service afte
>75% Smart phones are run from android OS. Google-owned YouTube is the leader in online video. No
launched an anti-trust case against google, Alleging that Googles presentation of e-commerce search
favours its own shopping service over rivals. If Charges are to, EU can levy fines of up to 10% Google
[+] Although there is good chance, google will hire a high-profile lawyers who'll stall the case forever.
Under Drugs and Cosmetics Act, 1940 only a licensed retailer can sell Prescription drugs. However, Sn
was selling Ascoril cough syrup and Vigora tablets online without license. The Maharashtra Food and D
Administration (FDA) begins investigation.
How do tears form when we get emotional? [+] Tears are produced in the lacrimal glands. They flow th
excretory ducts into the space between the eyeball and the lids. [+] The para-sympathetic branch of t
autonomic nervous system controls it. the lacrimal glands. Benefits of Tears? [+] Basal tears keep eye
lubricated and dust free. Such tears are known as basal tears. [+] They've antibodies to fight against
[+] Reflex tears help to wash out insect, onion vaour etc. from eye. [+] Emotional tears have Different
composition then above stated tears. Emotional tears controlled by hypothalamus. During stress, extr
and "prolactin" hormones are produced. Emotional tears flush out these Toxics substances, and the pe
better after crying. [+] Since women bodies produce more "prolactin", hence they cry often. [+] birds
animals use tears to remove salt from their body
Hubble Space Telescope: [+] joint venture between NASA and the European Space Agency (ESA) [+] l
kms above earth using "discovery" space shuttle. [+] Launched in 1990. So 2015 = 25th anniversary.
Wide Field Camera 3. Can see in multiple wavelengths near-infrared, visible light and near-ultraviole
photos of Eagle Nebula's "pillars of creation".
Union Ministry for Development of North East Region (DoNER)'s website wins "Web Ratna Award 2014
given by Union Ministry of Information Technology (IT).
Rising number of chess players using mobile/bluetooth technology to cheat in the game using Fritz so
UK company built MinION. Size: small chocolate bar. Use: genome sequencing in ebola affected count
Aedes mosquitoes transmit Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) to humans, leading to joint pain and even deat
researchers working on a new recombinant MVA vaccine against this virus.
[+] Kerala researchers gave 400 pheromone traps to Maldives to protect against fruit fly attack. [+] N
says Five billion people globally do not have access to safe, affordable surgery and anesthesia.
Indian origin MIT researcher Sangeeta Bhatia won 2015 Heinz Award for Technology ($2.5 lakh). She h
developed artificial human microlivers for drug testing tissue engineering and disease detection. [+] T
Awards annually given for arts and humanities; environment; human condition; public policy; and tech
the economy, and employment.
Britains first legally approved HIV self-testing kit (Brand name "Biosure") began online sale. You just n
a blood drop, Kit will react to its antibodies, if HIV positive then purpule lines will be shown. It can sho
just 15 minutes with a 99.7 per cent accuracy rate. Condition: HIV infection must be atleast 3 months
Traditional lab testing can take upto 5 days to confirm.
200 years of Gorkha Rifles: East India company's Sir Robert Colquhuon raised Gorkha rifles regiment w
from Gorkhas, Kumaon and Garhwal regions. Weapon" Khukris". Battlecry: Aayo Gorkhali. Gorkhas fir
East India Company, then British empire then free Indian army. Famous officers from Gorkha rifles: (1)
first Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw. (2) Current Army Chief General Dalbir Singh.
NASA tests "morphing wing". They reduce aircraft weight & noise pollution. They improve fuel efficien
can bend from 2 to 30 degrees, even during the flight.
At present, job reservation is not given in selected scientific and technical jobs in government. The SC
committee has asked Government to change eligibility criteria so meritorious SC/ST candidates can al
the prestigious post in the scientific and technical field.
Rashtriya Swasthya Bima Yojana provides cashless health insurance to unorganised sector workers. B
needs to give annual Rs.30 premium for five times, and they get Rs.30,000 cover. This scheme is bein
from Labour ministry to Health ministry, to make it a part of part of the National Health Assurance Mis
parliament Committee is opposed.
Ayush-1) Ayurveda (science if life). Who? Atharva Veda, Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita. How?
elements and 3 humours Vata, Pitta and Kapha. [+] Vipreeta treatment= medicine + diet to antago
diseases [+] Vipreetarthkari treatment = medicine+ diet + activity to exert effects similar to the disea
process. Medicine= herbs.
Ayush-2) Yoga (to join or to unite) is a physical and spiritual discipline. Who? Upanishads and Pata
Sutras.
Ayush-3) Homeopathy: Who? German physician Samuel Hahnemann, 18th century. How? Dilute a sub
logarithmic scale with alcohol or distilled water. Then drop this liquid on a sugar pill and give to patien
Scientific community does not believe in this principle though.
Ayush-4) Uniani. Who? 12th century Arabs and Persians. Later Freedom fighter and physician Hakim A
How? herbal, animal and mineral drugs.
Ayush-5) Siddha: Who? Tamilnadu's siddhars or scientist-saints. How? checklist of eight signs and sy
Herbal drugs, internal and external treatment. Although Research, teaching and practise is largely res
Tamil Nadu.
Ayush-6) Naturopathy. How? special diets, mud packs, acupuncture, acupressure, magnet therapy, pra
meditation
US's private company SpaceX Dragon spaceship aims to carry people in lower orbit in 2017. Recently
began tests for emergency astronaut escape feature [+] internet.org opens platform for app/web deve
ignored because still developing.
National Pharmaceutical Pricing Authority (NPPA) had asked all pharma firms to register themselves w
Integrated Pharmaceutical Database Management System (IPDMS) in Sep-2014 but only 41 out 100 re
NPPA issues warning to remaining companies.
Indo-French naval exercise (VARUNA) concluded at Panaji, Goa. 1983: joint exercises begin. 2001: rena
Varuna. 2015: fourth edition of the joint exercise.
CERN (European Organisation for Nuclear Research) is world's biggest particle physics laboratory . CER
operates the Large Hadron Collider. Until now India was an observer. Now Cabinet clears India's "assoc
membership" to CERN. Total 21 member States.
Ridlr- an Indian app to help people locate the nearest bus stop and metro station and get instant infor
the latest time-tables of all available modes of transport. You can save favorite routes and travel hass
Asthma: airways shrink, because of immunological response to an allergen such as dust, food additive
Allergan vary from person to person[+] Narrowed airways means difficulty in breathing. [+] Asthma is
curable but fully controllable, with proper treatment. [+] Asthama inhalers contain Bronchodilators & s
anti-inflammatory agents that help relaxing the airway [+] May 5 World Asthama Day.
Autism= auto+ism. It's a complex neuro-development disorder [+] problem in language skills & comm
[+] Symptoms begin at age of 3. [+] Government recognizes it as a disability.
Opto Circuits India is a Medical devices maker. Its product Powerheart G5 AED got approval by USFDA
=Automated external defibrillator (AED). [+] During Cardiac arrest, defibrillators give electrical shock
the heart.
TB Joint Monitoring Mission 2015 has criticized Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme (RNT
Because [+] for TB diagnosis Government using century old insensitive smear microscopy. [+] TB trea
takes away ~40% of family's annual Expenditure, Government not giving sufficient financial aid.
IIT Kharagpur develops new password system. Instead of typing password, you've to answer secret qu
depending on your daily online social activity.
The boiling point of milk (100.17C) is slightly higher than of water (100C). When milk heated, its relati
dense constituents like the fat/proteins begin to float on top cream layer. So, milk vapor can't pass thr
upper layer. So, at boiling point milk will overflow due to large quantity of milk vapor rupturing the cre
[+] Milk cooker is a double-walled vessel. Its gap has water, which boils before milk. So, inner vessel r
100C. So, cream layer forms but milk vapor doesn't form. That's why milk will not overflow in a milk co
UN Road Safety Week: theme Children and Road Safety [+] World Red Cross Day: 8th May. 2015 mark
Anniversary.
Blackberry (Canadian Company) had aquired Movirtu for virtual identity solutions provider. Blackberry
sought permission from Indian Government to launch Virtual SIM cards that will allow customers to us
different numbers through a single SIM [+] system already started in Africa. [+] this system works wit
of smartphone whether android, iphone or windows based.
Jana startup Co. from USA designed app "mcent'. if you download apps through that 'mcent' app, you
credit, which you can use for surfing other sites of your choice. Jana is seen as counter to internet.org
Mid 90s: Dr.Kalam proposes ballistic missile defense system (BMD) i.e. a missile that can shoot down e
missiles. DRDO began working since Late 90s to provide cover for Delhi, Mumbai etc. Anti-arguments
failed last month [+] will encourage Pak. to produce more missiles, to simultaneously attack multiple t
India [+] US Senate report says BMDs have only 30% success rate, yet costs are prohibitive e.g. for Ea
city such missile defense shield to cost ~1 lakh crore minimum. [+] for a fully functional BMD, you nee
command-control-centre and geo-stationary satellite- we don't have that satellite yet.
Government prohibits hotels and farmhouses From using laser lights near airports because it creates c
to the pilot.
2004: NASAs Messenger spacecraft Launched to investigate mercury planet. It gave information abou
Mercury's magnetic anomalies and ice polar craters. 2015: it crashed on Mercury, because of the sun
gravitational pull.
Japanese senior citizens will be given ipads with custom apps that will help them remember when to t
medicine
Column2
tion using Acoustic N-wave Identification). This system helps training defense and sportsmen for mark
f visiting Doctor. End result: antibiotic resistance, and health problems for taking wrong drugs. [+] CIC
net-n
net-n
nd sportsmen for marksmanship. Costs 40% less than other system [+] DHRISTI: first indigenous trans
g wrong drugs. [+] CIC orders Delhi Government to notify all Doctors that "two finger" test not necessa
: first indigenous transmissometer for measuring runway visibility
nger" test not necessary on rape victims, and doctor must not pass observations like "rape occurred/ d
s like "rape occurred/ did not occur" etc. in verbal written reports.
Month Utility
14_12_DecW1 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 M+P
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 z_ignored
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF

14_12_DecW3 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 OLF

14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 z_ignored
15_01_JanW1 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 z_ignored
15_01_JanW1 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 0P+M
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF

15_01_JanW2 0P+M
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 0P+M
15_01_JanW2 0P+M
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 0P+M
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 M+I
15_01_JanW3 0P+M

15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF

15_01_JanW4 0P+M
15_02_FebW1 0P+M

15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1
15_02_FebW1

15_02_FebW1 z_ignored
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 0P+M
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 M+I
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF

15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 0P+M
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 0P+M
15_02_FebW3 0P+M
15_02_FebW3 0P+M
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF

15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_03_MarW1 0P+M
15_03_MarW1 0P+M

15_03_MarW2 OLF
15_03_MarW2 OLF
15_03_MarW2 OLF
15_03_MarW2 OLF
15_03_MarW2 0P+M
15_03_MarW3 0P+M
15_03_MarW3 OLF

15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 0P+M
15_03_MarW3 OLF

15_03_MarW4 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 0P+M

15_03_MarW4 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 z_ignored
15_04_AprW1 0P+M
15_04_AprW1 z_ignored

15_04_AprW1 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF

15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 0P+M
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 M+I
15_04_AprW3 0P+M

15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_04_AprW4 OLF

15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_04_AprW4 0P+M
15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_04_AprW4 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 OLF

15_05_MayW1 OLF
15_05_MayW1 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 M+I
Topic
Lima COP-20 climate summit
Swatch-bharat kosh
Government relaxes norms for E-Rickshaws.
Old laptop batteries can be used for powering slums
Conserving indigenous Javeri territory in Brazil
Mastodon elephants of North America
Banning Oxytoxin drug used for increasing milk production
Boeing's ecoDemonstrator 787. It is world's first aeroplane using green diesel (85% jet fuel +
15% green diesel)
Biodigestor toilets by DRDO for Swatch bharat abhiyan. Topic covred multiple times in earlier
articles.
ISRO satellites to assess coral bleching.
Gadgil demands that his report on Western Ghat should be implemented completely
regenerative ammonia battery system to generatepower from awaste heat
Karnataka: Nagarhole tiger reserve installs camera traps to check on poaching
List of pollutants responsible for discoloration of Taj Mahal
Flora: Blood red Kashaya plant- IUCN vulnerable species
In 2013, the Co2 emissions were all time high in India, says a report.
Flora-Fauna: Indian wins Green Oscar for documentary movie on Kakapo parrots of Newzealand.
Flora-Fauna: Hainan Gibbon- only 25 left.
CNR Rao's work on Synthetic gas.
Chillai Khurd and Chillai Kalan: Cold weather period in Kashmir
Marine Debri; Coral Bleaching due to El Nino, and how by 2050 Corals will vanish
NGT case: US and Europe trains have emission standarnds, India doesn't. NGT tells Railways to
ensure diesel trains don't pullute.
NTCA wants two new tiger reserves at Cauvery and MM Hills, But Karnataka Government says
nope, because too much human population will be displaced.
IPCC Chief Pankaj Pachauri says national targets should be reviewed on regular basis.
register on http://www%2Ersmcnewdelhi@imd.gov.in/ to get free SMS alert during natural
disasters
Plant protection code by Tea board of india
NGT orders Railways to install dustbin.
INCOIS working on a GIS based 3D protocol for tsunami warning; India to give $1 million to UN
ESCAP trust fund for better tsunami prediction
Swatch-bharat: Modi nominates Mumbai's Dabba-walla for campaign
Union wants to declare 100 kms area between Gaumukh to Uttarkashi as "eco sensitive zone" so
that new hydro-projects, mining, industries etc can't be setup but Uttarakhand cabinet passes
resolution against this move.
Green climate fund to accept donations from private sector
Koral leaf nosed bats
Hyderabad HC bans cockfights during Sankranti
NGT orders Police to confiscate Mobile DJ systems for noise pollution during new year
celebrations.
NDMA reconstituted. Except Modi, no high profile names hence not much important for MCQs
Hamara Jal, Hamara Jeewan initiative by Water resources ministry.
In 2014, India lost 64 tigers, says NTCA.
Forest rights act is not delaying projects, says Government
MDU-1: new fiber rich cluster bean variety developed in Tamilnadu. Ignored because it doesn't
have a fancy name.
Floating Solar Power plant at Kolkata
Kerala plants to become fully organic farming state by 2016.
Carbon Fertilization effect
Indian Ocean exploration expedition by NIO
New plant species found: Chlorophytum palghatense,
Public sector banks will give loans for setting up solar-panels on home during construction or
renovation.
govt wants to add 100MW solar energy in next 2 years.
Prakash Path- LED bulb distribution scheme
Bangladesh's estuarine islands are sinking because of tidal erosion
Raksha Blue vaccine for bluetongue disease among the cattle
Government wants to achieve 1 lakh MW solar power generation by 2022. They've asked PSUs
to invest in solar energy to achieve this target.
India's highest zoo at Darjeeling begins conversation program for Himalayan herbivoers.
3 new plant species in W.Ghats- don't have much MCQ worthy info. bad cost:benefit
River interlinking projects to fix water shortage in Metros- For Delhi: Sarda and Yamuna; For
Mumbai: Damanganga and Pinjal
NGT's judgment 'Maili Se Nirmal Yamuna project 2017'- banning waste dumping in Yamuna river,
otherwise 5000 to 50,000 rupees fine
Bill Gates foundation partners with Urban Development ministry for Swatch Bharat Abhiyan
Dolphin like creature's fossils found near Scotland
Agra district bans burning of coal and cow-dungs to protect Taj Mahal
NRDC's superabsorbent Hydrogel technology
Kribhko's Neem Coated Urea- features, benefits
China obtained 15 years deep-sea exploration rights of Indian Ocean from ISA (International
seabed authority). Now it has sent a manned mission to search polimetalic nodules in Indian
ocean
Japan offers to help moderanization of Indian ship breaking industry at Alang, Gujarat IF we
ratify Hong kong convention on ship recyling.
Government allows private biodiesel makers to sell it directly to customers like Indian railway.
Maneka Gandhi says Tamilnadu's Jallikattu (Bull-taming sport) is a western concept. It's good
that SC has banned it for Animal cruelty
American scientists say 2014 was Earth hottest year
Environment minister seeks transboundary cooperation for developing Hindu-Kush Himalayan
region
Eco-sensitive zones and eco-fragile zones. Important because Government plans to notify 60
eco-sensitive zones this year
USA wants to collaborate with India for clean energy but Modi's "Make in India" requirement will
pose challenge in selling American solar energy devices in India
Kerala's Periyar Tiger reserve got biennial award for local participation in Tiger conservation
Modi's first meeting of the PMs Council on Climate Change. provides good fodder for descriptive
questions. http://www.thehindu.com/news/national/make-solar-energy-more-accessible-
modi/article6804988.ece
Tamilandu parties asking Government to drop the idea of making Kanyakumari tiger sanctury
because it'll affect Kani tribals.
Kerala Government drafted a bill to provide compensation to Plachimada villagers for ecological
damage by Coca Cola factory. But Union Government says its unconstitutional because it
violates Art.253, Green tribunal act.
Mexico plans to use drone-petrolling for protection of Vaquita Marine- world's smallest porpoise
and a critically endangered species
2015-16 will be celebrated as "Jal Kranti Varsh" by water resources ministry
National green tribunal (NGT) prohibits parking on Delhi roads, else fine of Rs.1000
Asiatic lion survey is conducted in Gir, Gujarat every five years. This time from 2nd to 5th May,
2015
Blooming of Neela Kurinji in Western Ghats after 12 years period
Green tribunal orders West Bengal to seup a panel for monitering Sunderbans, ensure costal
zone regulations are not violated.
Obama's agra trip was cancelled. Theory #1: SC order for battery operated cars only. So
Obama's "Beast" could not be taken. Theory #2: Obama wanted to leave early for Saudi hence
cancelled the plan.
Ex-Congi environment minister Jayanthi Natrajan says she rejected files on environment
clearance because Congi-high-command and Rahulbaba had ordered her to do so.
Scientists found oldest snake-fossile called "Eophis underwoodi" near Oxford, England
Union Government planning to setup Sweage treatment plants in all 118 towns and cities on
Ganga banks
Environment ministry suggests SC about doubling the parking fees, allowing only Bharat Stage-3
or stage-4 vehicles only etc. but what the minister doesn't understand is- Delhi is beyond
saving, just like Gotham city.
SC continues ban on night-travel in Bandipur tiger reserve, Karnataka- to prevent death of wild-
animals in accidents.
North Karnataka farmers seek GI status for Gulbargas toor
Status of Tiger report 2014
Sinkholes form in riverbeds with gypsum, dolomite or limestone. They melt in water available in
the sub surface channels, leading to a sudden collapse. First time, Andhra Pradesh's Anatapur
reported Sinkholes- because (1) overexploitation of groundwater (2) water table not recharged
thanks to poor rain. For prelims- definition and reasons for Mains as a fodder on water
exploitation.
Some food experts believe idli originated from Indonesia, while others argue Arabs bought it to
India because they were confused about which food was haram and which one was halal- so
simply started boiling rice-balls as food.
Junta protesting against Koteshwar dam across the Bhagirathi in Tehri district, Dehradun after
cracks and seepage reported in dam wall. Location important for MCQ
World Bank report say Sunderbans carrying capacity exceeded the population pressure.
During 1660s Newton wrote a book "vegetables" - on how plant roots suck minerals and waters
and pump it upwards against gravity. Although it took another 200 years for Botanist to explain
this.
Two algae species Ulva paschima Bast, and Cladophora goensis Bast. They grow on shorelines,
can be used for carbon sequestration due to (1) their high growth rate near shorelines and (2)
their ability to absorb atmospheric carbon dioxide.
Josephoartigasia was the largest rodent ever. It used front teeth just like an elephant tusks.
Anthropological Survey of India (AnSI) says Santhal and other tribals have shifted from
agriculture to menial Labour in past few decades. Because agriculture has became an
unsustainable business for them
Najafgarh has Delhi's longest sewage drain, and it had became an alternative wetland habitat
for birds. However, Asian Water bird Census says less migrant birds coming to Delhi due to
climate change.
Hollywood actor Arnold says Gujarat's clean energy projects makes it the "California of India"
and to combat climate change the sub-national Governments must take similar initiatives.
Central African endangered plant Sirdavidia named after Sir David Attenborough- a noted
environmentalist
Over 1 lakh metric tonne solid waste generated everyday in Indian cities. Quantity sufficient to
generate ~450MW electricity and sufficient compost fertilizer to reduce chemical fertilizer usage
by 30%. Over 35,000 million litre sewage generated every day- sufficient to irrigate >1 lakh ht.
crops. Therefore, Urban minister V.Naidu wants a proper framework for municipal waste to be
converted to fuel, fertilizer and water. Main focus on Refuse Derived Fuel (RDF) which is
obtained by separating combustible part of municiple solid waste from other waste
Maharashtra Government gives field-trial approval for GM crops. Top countries with largest areas
under GM-cultivation -Argentina, Brazil, US, India (4th). We are far ahead of China. India-GM the
company Monasoto enjoys near monopoly, while in China- GM developed through PSUs.
Modi wants to permits deep sea fishing vessels, but Local fisherman afraid foreign operators will
corner such permits and their livelihood will be affected, hence protesting.
India's initiatives for monitoring climate change electronically. (1) along with 20 nations, we will
deploy a global calculator (In MS Excel format) to calculate climate impact scenarios in our
country e.g. transport, crop yields, forests etc. We will also upgrade our existing tool Indian
Energy Security Scenarios (IESS) (Which was originally designed by the former planning
commission).
TSR Subramanian's Green law panel submits 55 recommendations. Environment Ministry has
partially accepted some of them.
2011: Adani Purchased Abbot Point terminal In Queensland, Australia. Now Adani wants to
dredge the Great Barrier Reef To expand coal port. Environmentalists opposing this move
Around 1540, the Spanish Empire forced Peru's Incas to in silver mines of Potosi mountains. Now
Scientists observed evidence of mining/smelting pollution in the icecaps near Peru. Thus,
Humans have begin polluting the earth 240 years before the Industrial Revolution.
A parasitic wasp employs a virus as a biological weapon to paralyse a beetle and turn it into a
bodyguard for wasp-larva.
Ituglanis boticario is a carnivore fish living underground caves in central Brazil. Researchers
claim increased cattle ranching= less water reaching the caves=fish population declined.
Israel runs world's largest desalination plants and recycles 90 per cent of water for agricultural.
They have offered to share their expertise in cleaning ganga.
The Delhi High Court asks Delhi Government to furnish pollution map of the city since 2010.
Water Resources Ministry planning to revive Brahmaputra Board with a new mandate and
schemes. Topic becomes important only after its officially notified.
Bru people speak Kau Bru language of Tibeto-Burmese origin. They migrated from Mizoram to
Tripura following the ethnic clashes in '97. But their long stay in Tripura relief camps = damage
to environment by firewood collection and poaching. They also clash with indigenous people of
Tripura. Hence Union ministry planning their repatriation back Mizoram.
American plants generate over 2000 tonnes of nuclear waste every year. Government planning
to store them under Yucca Mountains in Nevada state.
Nobel winner and TERI DG R. K. Pachauri accused of sexually harassing a colleague.
Auction of Prime Minister Narendra Modis dark suit with golden pinestrips, at Surat. A diamond
merchant Lalji Patel won it for 4.31 crores, money to be spent on Ganga cleanup.
To relocated Lions from Gir (Gujarat), Madhya Pradesh had began expending Kuno Wildlife
Sanctuary. In this process, ~8,000 Sahariya tribal people displaced in late 90s. New study says it
has reduced their life expectancy.
NGT order Delhi Government to explore possibility of rainwater harvesting on its flyovers. NGT
fines 11 Delhi hospitals for not adopting water harvesting methods and so on
Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM), Pune launched "SAFARAir" app to increase air-
pollution awareness among juntaa.
ICAR achievements: E-Kapas voice based service for cotton farmers, infocrop wheat module for
identifying location based suitable variety of wheat, Chitosan based hand sanitizer, derived
policonasol from lac, lac-based coating to preserve fruit freshness, health supplement from
collagen of fish scales, Aseelindigenous chicken breedits genome decoded. 4G nano based
nutritional agriculture inputs (P, Mg, Zn, Fe); Deepashathe only surviving wild-female-buffalo
from Asha breed in Chhattisgarh.
Geoengineering aims to fight climate change by removing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
or by increasing the reflectivity of the earth using artificial clouds or even space dust- to reduce
the suns warmth and thereby Global warming. But now even CIA interested in geoengineering-
to "weaponize" weather. Although it is nothing new, previously united kingdom wanted to
produce artificial clouds to stop smooth flight of German bombers. Similarly During Vietnam war,
America's "operation Popeye" aimed to increase Rainfall in Vietnam to reduce the movement of
North Vietnamese Army in the jungle.
Brazil is called the Saudi Arabia of water Given the abundant water resources of Amazon. But
now, Sao Paulo facing the worst draw period in the century- because of its polluted rivers,
deforestation and population growth.
"Operation Opson 4"- run by Interpol and Europol to stop "food-adulteration". So far they have
investigated lakh of litres of misbranded alcohol, malt, whiskey, beer and caviar from China and
other Asian countries coming to Europe. In a way its good because such cheap Asian exports
were hurting Indian food processing industry.
Vanaj 2015 Tribal festival held at Delhi
Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) setup in 1916- began planning for its upcoming cemetery
celebrations. Will convert paper database into online taxonomy. So far India has reported 96,000
species = ~8% of total species in the world. However, ZSI believes so far we have discovered
hardly 10% of our actual species in India.
latest report of Forest Survey of India: 5,871 sq km increase in the forest cover of India, West
Bengal accounts for nearly 64 per cent of this rise. Top gainers- Bengal> Odisha>Kerala. Top
losers: Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh.
Pilot whales are most common species of whale in New Zealand waters. Topic in news because
100 of them stranded on a New Zealand, rescue workers waiting for high tide to push'em back
into the water.
Union Government permits 5% ethanol blending with petrol. Steps taken - remunerative prices
offered to sugar mills to supply ethanol to oil marketing cos. But problems (1) states levy
additional taxes in pretext of 'import-export' and even extra octroi (2) state excise inspectors
don't give NOC for Inter-state movement of ethanol easily. These "transaction barriers" are
hurting the policy implementation.
PM launches 'Soil Health Card scheme' with gives slogan: "Swasth Dharaa. Khet Haraa." -
Healthy Earth. Green Farm. Card validity 3 years-then renew. Card to display soil fertility and
recommend fertilizers accordingly. This will improve crop yields, prevent soil-water
contamination due to excessive use of fertilizers and thus reduce Government subsidy bill.
Integrated Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) is now renamed to Jal Sadhana with
tagline Conserve water, Conserve life". Will be monitored through mobile app "drishti". Features
(1) involve community at every stage (2) use remote sensing and satellite imageries (3) de-
silting of water harvesting structures before monsoon-2015. (4) ensure every farm receives
water.
Mridaparikshak, is a MINILAB that can determine soil health using digital-mobile-soil-test kit.
Developed by Bhopal centre of ICAR. It determines all the important soil parameters i.e. soil pH,
EC, organic carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, sulphur and micronutrients like zinc, boron
and iron. Accordingly, farmer gets SMS info. on recommended fertilizer. System compatible with
Soil health card system. Even 11-12 pass farmers themselves can use it with little training.
India is the 4th largest energy consumer in world. Demand to dobule by 2030, make in India
can't succeed hence must focus on renewable. ~34 out ~250 GW of India's energy output
comes from renewable sources. Problems (1) 70% solar cells imported from USA and China (2)
small hydro power potential 20GB but so far achieved not even 4% (3) need to permit finance
through tax-free "green bonds" just like in USA, China and Europe
Indias coal-based thermal power plant most inefficient in the world says Centre for Science and
Environment (CSE)'s Green Rating Project (GRP). Reforms suggested (1) stronger norms for
Particulate matter, Sox, NoX, mercury (2) higher use of ash (3) increase coal washing (3)
capacity expansion permit only for those plants using super critical technology (4) encourage
PAT (Perform, Achieve, Trade) (5) water tariff should be raised to prevent its excessive use.
US universities research says Indian life expectancy reduced by 3 years due to high pollution.
Union to give money to Harayana for conversation of Hariana, Sahiwal and Gir breeds of
indigenous cattle, under Gosamvardhan and Gosanrakshan projects.
Sunda Pangolins are critically endangered species of Vietnam. Restaurants buy them at premium
price for 'alleged' medicinal benefits.
Fukushima nuke plant again leaking radioactive water in the sea.
After industrial revolution the aerosols increased in atmosphere. Consequently ITCZ shifted
southwards since 1900. As a result southern atmosphere got warmer, more evaporation and
rainfall. While northen hemisphere got cooler- leading to dry climate and less rainfall.
Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa has raised a women only group "Black Mambas" for
protecting the rhinos.
NGT says vintage cars can't be driven on road- because they are more polluting than modern
cars.
Ex-Anchor of CCTV (Chinese Doordarshan) Ms.Chai King's documentary on China's pollution
problem, has became hit on internet. Even Chinese parliament expected to debate on it. Movie's
impact is even compared to Rachael Carson's book "Silent Spring" (1962) that started
environment movement in USA.
President approves Maharashtra Animal Preservation (Amendment) Bill, 1995 to ban slaughter of
cattle. Beef selling punishable upto 5 years. Will affect 1 crore people's livelihood. North Eastern
states don't prohibit it. remaining states either completely prohibit or selectively permit with
'certificates' to slaughter cattle other than cow.
Pro slaughter Points: cheap source of protein for poors. Livelihood to millions. No point in
wasting grassfodder to useless or aged animal. Anti slaughter points: The weak and meek need
more protection and compassion. AprilW4 update: Bombay High Court orders Maharashtra
Government not to take action against anyone for position of beef, until hearing is over.
Australian authorities kill ~700 koalas because they were starving due to food shortage.
The difference in partial pressure of the CO2 between seawater and air facilitate gaseous
exchange. Due to this physico-chemical process, Ocean acts as the largest carbon sink on earth.
The dissolved carbon dioxide is important because (1) it regulates PH of seawater and thereby
health of marine organisms (2) helps marine organisms form calcareous material, later they
die=>sediments => petroleum (3) help Phytoplanktons in photosynthesis.
Japan's Aoshima island is also known as Cat island because cat to human population ratio is 6:1.
Critically Endangered Great Indian Bustards (GIB) is the State bird of Rajasthan. Total 150 GIB
live in India, out of them ~100 in Rajasthan alone, and remaining in Maharashtra, Gujarat, and
Andhra Pradesh. But the new census says only 50 GIB left in Rajasthan. And zero GIB left in Uttar
Pradesh and Bihar. Thar desert of Rajasthan is the breeding ground for GIB. Officially its called
"Desert National Park" but legally its only a sanctuary therefore human activities permitted,
even Supreme court permitted school constructions here. Other dangers (1) installation of
windmills (2) shortage of forest guards.
Sarus Crane is the official bird of UP state. NGT orders declaring Dhanauri and Parasaul as
wetland to protect this species.
2012: google develops trekker camera, to provide "Street view" of notable tourist sites. Latest
Maping: (1) Amazon rainforest (2) Sagarmatha national park, Mount Everest.
ISRO study says Sunderbans losing green cover and land mass.
NGT orders ONGC and other bodies to pay ~95 crores to the traditional fishermen families of
Raigad district in Maharashtra. This is the highest compensation order passed so far.
Corroboree frogs founding Australian ranges. At one point, only 4 were left, hence considered
the rarest frog in the world.
Global Forest Watch is an online platform that generates satellite images of forest loss
worldwide, using google maps. Governments and NGOs use it as benchmark to assess forest
loss.
Ulvella leptochaete is an "endophytic" Algae found in British Isles and Indian Ocean. These are
microscopic alage live inside macroscopic seaweeds. Such endophytic marine organisms usually
produce taxol/paclitaxel - which can be used in anti-cancer drugs. Although this algae is yet to
be tested for presence of this anti-cancer compound.
Chamaleons emeged in Africa post-Gondwana period, around 90 million years back. Raman
Spectruscopy decodes the Chameleon color changing mechanism. Their skin is made up of
lattice of nanocrystals called "iridophores", that can come together and shift light's wavelength
to change color.
Global warming / climate change will increase pest population and variety because (1) insect
development stages get changed (2) they don't die quickly in winters because temperature not
cold enough.
Madhya Pradesh->Singrauli District->Mahan Coalmines. Tribals are opposing it. Greenpeace

activist Ms. Priya Pillai wanted to raise this matter to British MPs. But Government of India
banned her foreign travel. New condition: if she gives written undertaking that she will not make
any submissions about rights violations in India before a British Parliamentary Committee, only
then she'll be allowed to travel. Because such testimonies lead to release of biased annual
reports by EU and US parliaments and adverse trade negotiations. Final verdict: Delhi HC lifts
the ban saying- "development activites and counter point debates going on since ages. But that
can't be used for curtailing citizen's fundamental rights', mere expression of counterpoint can't
be claimed "anti-national" activity . hence Pillai free to go.
Buddha / Malabar Peacock butterfly is endemic to South Asia. Remaining varities of peacock
butterflies found in West Bengal. Plus a new Malayan Green Banded Peacock butterfly (Papilio
palinurus) also discovered in W.Bengal recently. This butterfly is also found in Mynmar, Borneo
and Philippines.
Highest population of Rhinos in India: (1) Kaziranga National Park in Assam (2000) (2) Jaldapara
National Park, W.Bengal (250). But in Bengal, the rhino male-female ratio is 2:1, hence difficult
to manage sustainable population.
Solar Impulse 2 (Si2), the worlds first solar aircraft that aims to circumvent globe without a
drop of fuel. It began journey from Abu Dhabi and landed in Ahmedabad. Pilots cum developers
are Andre Borschberg and Bertrand Piccard from Switzerland. Aircraft weight: 2300, wings larger
than Boeing 747 but weights just like a car. speed between 36 to 140kmph. plans to cover world
in 25 days flight spread across 5 months duration.
World conference on disaster risk reduction at Sendai, Japan from 14-18th March 2015. India's
home minister will participate. They will evolve strategy following the current Hyogo Framework
of Action.
Roads, trains and power lines are called Linear infrastructure projects. Under Modi-raj,
environment ministry diluted clearance norms for cutting trees for such projects under the
Forest Conservation Act of 1980. Pro (1) Roads and power lines vital for economic growth,
mobility and delivery of services. Anti (1) Habitat fragmentation (2) wildlife deaths in road
accidents and poaching (3) landslides and erosion (4) artificial plantation to compensate the
forestloss, cannot compensate for #1,2,3. Therefore, National Green Tribunal has ordered that
no linear project or any other non-forest activity be carried out in a forest area unless a final
order has been passed by the State government.
Jaitapur Nuclear Power Project (JNPP). Capacity 9900 MW. Partners Areva (France) and NPCIL
(India). It'll be the largest power generating station in the world upon completion. However,
since 2005, Government begun issuing compensation cheques to affected families but 60% of
them ended up in litigation because multiple family members claiming right over the same
farms due to outdated land records.
Totten Glacier is the largest in East Antarctica. But it has been melting at fast rate, Scientists
now found two pathways channeling warm ocean water under it and thereby increasing the
melting.
Chennai highest per capita emitter of greenhouse gases, says IISc.
Cyclone Pam ravaged Pacific nation Vanutu (capital Port Vila). Its president Baldwin Lonsdale
seeks world help.
NGT calls Railways the biggest open toilet, and orders fine of Rs.5000 to anyone found littering
or defecating on tracks or platforms.
Karnataka's Bandipur Tiger reserve to use drone to moniter movement of animals, poachers and
forest fire. A private company keyfalcon has given drone on monthly rent, along with android
app "Hejje" (Pugmark) to coordinate movement of forest guards and tigers. It flies at a low level,
local people fear getting caught by it, thus drone deters poachers and jungle-mafia.
Simultaneously, sensor based camera installed at key places to track movement of men and
animals. Price of drone ~2 lakh rupees. Factoids: [+] 1973- Project Tiger began, Total 47 tiger
reserves in 18 states covering ~2% geographical area, 60% of world Tigers in India. [+] Tiger
reserves have (1) buffer area where forest + non-forest land (2) core area- exclusively for tiger
only.
First country to use biofuel in aviation - Canada (2012). Recently, Hainan Airlines becomes
China's first company to fly Boeing 737 with biofuel. This biofuel has conventional ATF-fuel and
discarded cooking oil from restaurant in 50:50 ratio. Chinese restaurants can sell off used
cooking oil, otherwise they used to either throw it away or re-use it multiple time in food-
preparation which is bad for human health.
Given the high air pollution and smog problem, Paris Mayor comes up with novel solution. For a
week- only vehicles with odd numbered plates can drive. Remaining will have to use public
transport- free of cost. Rule exempted for taxis, electric cars, ambulance and other public
vehicles. This move is expected to reduce no. of cars on street by 50%, thereby easing
congestion and airpllution. Paris had imposed similar rule in 2014 too. Factoid: Planets most
polluted city was Ahvaz in Iran. Says WHO.
India's noted environmentalist Rajendra Singh (nick name "Waterman") won Stockholm Water
Prize 2015 (Sweden, King Carl XVI Gustaf). He was born in UP, worked in Rajasthan for decades
to solve drought issue in Indian villages. Earlier he want Magsaysay award too (2001) for
community-based water Management. His views [+] Government has replaced rejuvenation
with contractor driven sewage treatment and river front Development.[+] merely declaring
Ganga as national river =insufficient. Polluter must be punished. [+] he's running Jal Jan Jodo
campaign to spread water conservation message.
British naturalist Charles Darwin came across fossils of Toxodon and Macruchenia. These South
American mammals had trunk like elephant, head like a hippo and teeth like a rodent. Darwin
was unable to place these South American ungulates in the line of mammalian evolution.
(ungulates =animals with hooves ). Theory 1: they're related with African mammals like
elephants and aardvarks. Theory 2: they're related with South American South American
mammals like armadillos and sloths. Theory 3: they're related with Camels. Latest conclusion
through DNA analysis- Toxodon and Macruchenia belong to perissodactylsodd-toed hoofed
mammals like rhinos, tapirs, and horses. And not related with camel in any way.
Disaster: J&K devastated by another flood in Jelum.
In MarchW1, President approved Maharashtra Animal Preservation (Amendment) Bill, 1995 to

ban slaughter of cattle. Beef selling punishable upto 5 years. North Eastern states don't prohibit
it. remaining states either completely prohibit or selectively permit with 'certificates' to
slaughter cattle other than cow. Pro slaughter Points: [+] What about 1 crore people's livelihood
directly in beef industry and indirectly in leather industry.[+] cheap source of protein for poors.
Livelihood to millions. [+] No point in wasting grassfodder to useless or aged animal. [+] Lions,
tigers and other carnivores in Mumbai zoos now get chicken as their primary feed. Keepers
worry about the animals losing strength due to lack of beef || Anti-slaughter points: [+] The
weak and meek need more protection and compassion. [+] Ex-Union Environment minister
Jairam Ramesh had said meat and beef industry responsible for huge amount of methane
emission harming the environment.
Madhav Gadgil wins USA's Tyler Prize for Environmental Achievement for 2015 (2 lakh dollars).
He played key role in drafting National biodiversity act 2002. He was chairman of the Western
Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP), but Government did not like his report. Not one bit. So
they setup another panel under Kasturirangan. Nonetheless, American environmentalists took
note of Gadgil's report and gave him the award.
African Elephant Summit, at Kasane, Botswana. Delegates say African elephants will be extinct
within few decades due to poaching and ivory trade.
Using bio-refining, It is possible to turn macro algae (sea weeds) into bio-ethanol (fuel), and
byproducts like agar, pigment, lipids and fertilziers . Important seaweed species: Gelidiella
acerosa and Gracilaria dura from Western coast of India, and Gelidium pusillum collected from
southeast coast. Challenge: need to grow millions of tones of sea weed. But good thing is
seaweed farming can provide large scale employment to many fishermen, and reduce coastal
eutrophication and golbal warming.
Camel is the state animal of Rajasthan. Now State government has passed the law- slaughter /
cruelty to camel Punishable up to 5 years jail and fine.
Assam's Kanziranga National Park's latest survey says rhino population has increased to 2400.
Polyhouse cultivation in tunnel-dome shaped greenhouse like structures. Kerala Agricultural
University (KAU) has developed a seedless hybrid cucumber that is ideal for polyhouse
cultivation. Till now we were dependent on MNCs from Asian country to provide us such
cultivars.
WWF celebrates earth hour on 28 March 2015, asking people to switch off light for 60 minutes
after 8:30PM. 170+ countries, ~40 UNESCO world heritage sites participated
Delhi university to setup its own weather station for monitoring microclimate of Delhi.
Tigers and leopards do not drink blood. These carnivores do not have any mechanism to suck
blood when they kill their prey.
Under the National Green Tribunal act, NGT can deliver justice only in matters pertaining to
following acts- Water Act, The Water Cess Act, The Forest Conservation Act, The Air Pollution Act,
Environment Protection Act, Public Liability Insurance Act and The Biological Diversity Act. Forest
ministry contends that NGT can't deliver any Verdict on matters related to climate change.
Because climate change subject is covered under international conventions and protocols.
CFL lamps contain mercury, which if not recycled, can create variety of diseases. But every year,
Delhi alone generate ~75 kilos of Mercury due to broken /thrownaway CFLs.
Mithi Virdi, Bhavnagar district 6000MW nuke powerplant planned. Villagers allege CRZ
permission given without inspection.
China planning to install a mega solar power plant in geosynchronous orbit. It will transfer the
electricity using microwave or lasers to a collector on earth. Space-based solar panels can
generate 10 times more electricity than ground-based panels per unit area. Entire idea inspired
from American science fiction writer Issac Asimov's short story "Reason". Challenges: [+]
commercially viable space power plant will require 10,000 tonnes of material. Need very cheap
Satellite launch vehicle to send it in space. [+] solar panels need to be very lightweight
In March 2015, RBI had brought renewable energy under priority sector lending norms.
Subsequently, public sector banks have set target to loan 1.7 lakh crore rupees to this area, to
develop~35,000 MW renewable energy. SBI being highest- 75k crores. Simultaneously,
Government permits Power Grid Corporation Ltd (Page CIL) to get soft loan from ADB and begin
20k MW green corridor.
British scientists find a new amphibian species in the age of dinosaurs, named "Metoposarus
Algarvensis", it was a large salamander, with legs like crocodile, head like a toilet seat and size
like a car. It seems the reporter in charge of Hindu's "weekly-dino-discoveries" section, has
shifted to Indianexpress.
Chestnut-breasted Partridge (Arborophila mandellii). This bird is endemic to the Eastern
Himalayas. IUCN status: Vulnerable. In news because after a long time, photograph of real bird
taken in Arunanchal Pradesh.
Modi launches National Air Quality Index (AQI) for 10 cities. Central Pollution Control Board
(CPCB) will publish this index. It has 6 level color coded scale that shows air quality and
subsequent health problems. It measure six pollutants: PM 2.5, PM10, nitrogen oxides, sulphur
dioxide, ozone, and carbon monoxide. Plus lead and ammonia. Criticism: no automated actions if
air quality deteriorates. For example, Paris banned 50% of vehicles and gave free public
transport last month. Other basics already covered in my article 5 months ago
http://mrunal.org/2014/11/pollution-national-air-quality-index-safar-technology-parafoil-
drone.html
The air quality in Delhi and Mumbai will be very poor in the next few days, due to a dust storm
(Arabic word haboob'). This Haboob originated in the Gulf region last week. According to Parts of
Maharashtra continue to suffer low visibility due to the after-effects of last weeks major
sandstorm in the Gulf region. System of Air Quality and Weather Forecasting and Research
(SAFAR) is a body under the Ministry of Earth Science. SAFAR has predicted above Haboob
problem will increase PM2.5 particles level in Air.
Oldenlandia dineshi - shrub with dark blue flowers, discovered in Nelliyamaparthy hills, Western
Ghats, Kerala. IUCN classification; Endangered species.
Important carbon sink: (1) forest (2) Ocean (3) Soil. But due to excessive use of concrete in
cities, no soil left. Why Is it bad? (1) urban heat islands created. (2) rainwater can't percolate
down. so groundwater aquifers can't recharge fully.
Maharashtra = #1 in soild waste generation says Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
Maharastra planning to restart mining in Konkan-Sindhudurg region for iron ore, bauxite, silica,
dolomite, china clay etc. but activists say it'll hurt tourism potential.
Odisha has three tiger reserves Similipal, Satakosia and Sunabeda. National Tiger
Conservation Authority (NTCA) says only 28 tigers left but Odisha state Government maintains
they've 60 tigers.
From 1896 to 2013- there were sporadic cases of red coloured rain over Kerala and Sri Lanka.
New research says it was caused by European species of green microalgae, Trentepohlia
annulata. It spread its red-colored spores (like plant seeds) in very large area. So those red
spores must have transported from Europe to India, via clouds that drift across the Arabian Sea.
Female insects produce sex pheromones to attract males for mating. In Integrated pest
management, similar artificial chemicals are used as fake sex-pheromones are to trap/kill male
insects. This technique is called Attracticide. But this will yield result only if all males are
trapped, else some of them mate with females then population will sustain.
Typhoon Maysak: In Pacific ocean, moving towards Philippines.
Andhra officials kill 20 Tamilian Red sander smugglers in Seshachalam forest in Tirumala hills.
Red sander: latin name Pterocarpus Santalinus. found in Dry deciduous forest. Used for dye,
medicine. Fetches 20-40 lakhs. Protests in Tamilnadu for human rights violation and fake
encounter.
NGT bans all diesel vehicles above 10 years Age in Delhi, because they are a major reason for
pollution. Because air pollution kills 6.2 lakh people every year and consequent economic loss.
As such Lion-tailed macaques found only in the Silent Valley area. But few of them loitering in
Shendurney Wildlife Sanctuary in Kollam, Kerala.
NGT (1) bans 10 year old diesel vehicles (2) bans hawkers and cycle-rickshaw wallas because
they congest and delay traffic thereby increasing pollution (3) fine on builders and transporters
if they don't take due diligence to prevent dust pollution during construction e.g. giving dust
mask to workers, covering trucks containing construction material etc. I'm not going into details
because daily new thing comes up in NGT vs Delhi. No point in preparing half page note on each
them.
Osmania University researchers find new species of spiders at Nagnur in Karimnagar district.
Name: Telangana crab spider (Thomisus telanganensis). Crab spiders because they walk like
crabs. Also called Flower spiders because they don't construct webs. They wait in flowers to
catch insects by venom sting. They benefit ecosystem by working as biocontrol agents against
insects.
NHAI wants to expand NH7 highway between Pench and Kanha Tiger Reserves. Area full of sal
trees and good tiger population. Arguments against road / linear projects through tiger reserves
(1) edge effects the ecology around the road gets depleted through loss of vegetation and
refuge, alien invasive species are introduced, and ecosystem services are displaced. [+]
Ancillary threats such as more cars, and light and air pollution. [+] Tigers freeze when light falls
on them. Most animals can't fathom speed and size of car, hence accident. Animals move in
herds and have deep bonds; they too suffer distress when a member dies.
March Week4: To stop the nuisance of >8500 Monkeys in Delhi, municipal corporation will install
power fencing or simian tape around Government buildings. The fence will give a very low
voltage shock to the animal, so it doesn't die but just gets scarred off. New Development: [+]
Some Animal rights group sent legal notice to them saying electric shock amounts to animal
cruelty. [+] on the other hand, Forest Department of Delhi warns people not to feed monkeys at
public places else they'll be fined.
Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) to setup long-term permanent monitoring plots in Sunderbans,
with help of Botanical Survey of India (BSI), to study climate change impact on mangroves.
PIL in SC seeks to ban use of elephants in temples, processions etc. because it's one type of
animal cruelty. Ignored till verdict comes.
South Korea's Seoul declared Global Earth Hour Capital 2015. While Thane declared as National
Earth Hour Capital for India, because of it's focus on clean energy and waste Management
practices.
W.Bengal got was thinking of electric fences to reduce man-elephant conflicts in Tea Estates of
Sonitpur. but since its costly, now they'll do "Bio-fencing" using thorny bamboos.
Under Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA), NGOs must report their income to Home
ministry and can't spend beyond 50% of foreign funds on Administrative expenses. But
Greenpeace violated both and simultaneously campaigning against Madhya Pradesh coal mines
at UK. Therefore, Home ministry has frozen account of this NGO.
Many trees shed their leaves to survive harsh weather conditions. Trees that lose all of their
leaves for part of the year are known as deciduoustrees. . Temperate forests: trees shed their
leaves during autumn as cold weather approaches. Tropical and subtropical forests: trees shed
their leaves at the onset of the dry season. Under Abscission process, trees shed leaves to
conserve water andenergy during Harsh weather. At the start of the abscission process, they
reabsorb nutrients, proteins and carbohydrates from their leaves and store them for later use in
their branches or roots.
Under rotational farming, the farmers in Delhi region burn rice remanants to harvest wheat and
vice versa. this is a major contributor to air pollution, activists want NGT to take action.
NGOs file PIL to seek humane treatment to animals in Pet shops.
Water resource ministry setup BN Navalawala taskforce for interlinking of rivers.
Wildlife institute of India, is an autonomous body under MoEF, launches initiative for allowing
PSU and Companies to adopt endangered species such as Great Indian bustard, Gharial, Lesser
Florican, Snow Leopard etc. Spendings will be counted under CSR in Companies Act 2013. This is
because Budget 2015 reduced funding by 25%.
UN report: largest e-waste generating nations U.S., China, Japan, Germany and India is 5th
National Green Tribunal had banned 15 years old vehicles from Delhi. Petition filed against the
order in Supreme Court, but SC ruled in favour of NGT.
IUCN classifies total 988 threatened species into critically endangered, endangered and
vulnerable species. Number kept Increasing over the years. India is in seventh position- 15 more
species added to Red list.
National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) gives in-principle approval for tiger reserves in (1)
Ratapani in Madhya Pradesh (2) Sunabeda in Odisha (3) Guru Ghasidas in Chhattisgarh.
Montreal Protocol 35th working group meeting in Bangkok. Main debate: how to phase down
hydro-florocarbons. In UNFCCC, Development countries get funding for shifting to green
technology. But Montreal protocoal silent on that.
2007: planning commission came up with guidelines for NGOs. But they were not implemented.
2015: given the controversy surrounding Greenpeace, Ford Foundation and other NGOs, perhaps
we need to setup an NGO-accreditation agency. Anti [+] NGOs are not like hotel industry or
university where you can give rankings. Pro [+] it will help the global donors to decide which
NGOs are worth helping based on their performance record. [+] this will motivate All NGOs are
work in their best capacity.
B.N. Navalawala taskforce on inter linking of rivers. Navalawala is an ex-Water Resources

Secretary. He gave following wisdom so far [+] Water surplus states, will be interested in giving
water to deficit states, only if there is some mechanism to compensate them. [+] Intra basin
transfer also important i.e. within the state, we share water from one river to another. [+] task
force will first focus on- Ken-Betwa link between Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh; Daman
Ganga-Pinjar Par-TapiNarmada links between Maharashtra and Gujarat. [+] mark above rivers
and locations in your school atlas, for prelims MCQs. [+] Kerala, Odisha and Karnataka opposed
to water linking. [+] need to transfer water from Godavari and Mahanadi to south's deficit
regions.
Why do most of the clouds move from south to north direction over our subcontinent? [+]
Clouds move according to wind pattern. [+] Wind is caused due to difference in temperatures
and pressures. [+] Factors affecting wind movement: latitude, proximity of water bodies, sea
shore, land undulations and rotation of earth. [+] Breeze: Usually land is warmer than water
bodies. So hot air from land rises up. And wind blows from sea towards land, to fill up that
Airmass. In India, southern parts surroduned by sea. Hence wind and clouds move from south
towards north.
The Indian Mackerel Rastrelliger kanagurta is an important food fish commonly consumed
in South Asia. The fish is commonly found in warm shallow waters along the coasts of the Indian
and West Pacific oceans. But Indian Mackerel fishes collected from Andaman waters are
genetically distinctive from those caught from the Indian mainland. Now Central Marine Fish
Research Institute (CMFRI), Kochi Has begin their genetic profiling. It will help in better fisheries
management
Until now, researchers believed that southern slopes of the Himalayas act as a barrier. So,
pollutants and aerosols can't transport from India towards China. However, recent data shows
that aerosols from forest fires, are able to cross this barrier. Scientists used presence of
dicarboxylic acids to make this discovery. dicarboxylic acids are produced by biomass burning,
vehicular exhausts and cooking. Biomass burning increases during pre-monsoon time
Hyderabad herpetology researcher Aditya Srinivasulu found new gecko species in Hampi ruins in
Karnataka. Hampi is a World Heritage site. This new gecko named Cnemaspis adii. regular
geckos have vertical pupils but this new geckho has round pupils. It roams during day time. This
is the first "day gecko" found in the central regions of peninsular India between Eastern and
Western Ghats.
Government plans to install 182 metre Sardar Patel Statue on Sadhu Bet island on the Narmada.
But NGOs went to NGT saying EIA norms violated and site is on an active tectonic plate in a fault
line area, thus Prone to disasters. [+] Narmada wetlands area to be notified under the Wetlands
(Conservation and Management) Rules, 2010. So no construction activity can take place.
IMD forcast 3% less rainfall this year, because of El Nino conditions over the southwest
monsoon. Ignored because El nino already covered in old article
North Korea's highest Mountain is Mt.Paektu. In news because their leader Kim Jong Un climbed
it. location becomes important for world geography MCQ
Department of revenue intelligence begins operation sesha (short form of Seshachalam forest).
Purpose: to catch red sanders smugglers with help of 17 countries using CITES convention.
[+] NGT asks 5 star hotels and mall owners why they have not taken precautions for rainwater
harvesting. [+] NGT orders burning trash in Delhi will attract 5000 Rs. fine. [+] Karnataka
Government wants changes in Kasturirangan committee on protecting Western Ghats.
[+] Home Ministry cancels licence of 9000 NGOs for violating Foreign Contribution Regulation
Act (FCRA). They also put America's Ford foundation under watchlist. RBI told all banks not to
release funds of Ford to any local NGO without permission of home Ministry. Reason: Gujarat
government has accused ford of interfering in the countrys internal affairs and fanning
communal disharmony, with help of Tista Shetalvad's NGOs. Same way Netherland's Bertha
foundation And Greenpeace also put under watch list
Thailand wildlife department orders monks not to breed tigers / use them to get donations
@Kanchapuri province's famous "Tiger temple".
[+] Foreign Trade (Development and Regulation) Act of 1952 prohibits cattle exports but still
smugglers send them across Bangla border. SC says We can't stop outsiders from coming in... it
s such a weak, porous border. If BSF starts looking at cows, how will they stop terrorists from
coming in? [+] @Nepal, during Gadhimai festival Indian cattle are exported for slaughter. [+] SC
asks union and State governments about what measures they have taken. Abuse of elephants in
temples and religious ceremonies.
Arctic nation ministers meet at IQALUIT (CANADA). Total 8 Arctic nations: Canada; Denmark
(incl.Greenland + Faroe Islands), Finland, Iceland, Norway, Russia, Sweden, United States. [+]
India is an observer state. [+] Observations: Arctic is warming twice as fast as everywhere else
on the globe. [+] Arctic sea ice had reached its lowest winter point.
Kuttanad (Alappuzha district) = rice granary of Kerala. FAO even gave it status of Globally
Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS), for its indigenous rice. [+] farmers given
"trichocards" for pest control. Each such device contains ~20,000 eggs of Trichogramma larvae
glued to the card. [+] When this larvae matures, it kills other pests like leaf roller worms and
stem borer worms. Chemical pesticides not require any more. Useful in rice, corn, sugarcane and
millet cropping.
Non-green colored leaves can do photosynthesis. HOW? Ans. [+] Green leaves contain green
chlorophyll pigments. They capture light, create oxygen and energy (sugar).[+] Even non-green
leaves contain chlorophyll but its green color is masked due to presence of non-green pigments,
such as carotenoids and xamthophyll. But the photosynthesis is still happening underneath. [+]
Carotenoids and xanthophylls serve as antioxidants and protective accessory, they harvest the
light energy and pass it to Chlorophyll. [+] Non-green algae contain Chlorophyll in their
chromatophores. Thus they too can synthesize food. [+] Parasite plants like dodder and
Rafflesia don't have chlorophyll. Hence their stem is white/yellow colored.
Role of Parrotfish in coral island building? Maldives researchers found that [+] parrotfish controls
algae the population [+] after feeding, it excretes sand. This sands help building coral reef
islands. [+] Parrotfish can change its colour gender and shape
During 2008 Beijing Olympics, Chinese government had put strict control over pollution.
Researchers found babies born in this period had higher weight than babies born after the
games. Meaning: high level of pollution - reduces birth weight of babies.
NGT receives petition to stop sale of Reverse Osmosis (RO) purifiers because [+] they lead to
wastage of water [+] RO systems are meant for filtering seawater, not groundwater. [+] they
use chlorine/nano silver which may have harmful health effects in the long run [+] no study to
prove they reduce chances of waterborne diseases. [+] Some of them chlorinate the water-
which can lead to cancer in long-term. [+] government itself should provide clean water so there
is no need to use such purification machine.
Angry birds mobile game crated by Rovio. Now the same company making new edition with
endangered bird species such as Polynesian ground-dove, Tahiti monarch and the Tuamotu
sandpiper. Money will be given to some NGO for bird conversation projects in French Polynesian
islands.
Yi qi: name of the new dinosaur fossils found in China. It had size of a pigeon and wings like a
bat.
7.9 richer scale earthquake @Nepal on 25/4/2015. epicentre: Lamjung district in western Nepal
[+] Nepal has alluvial soil/clay so ground motion was amplified + avalanche triggered from
mountains- hence large-scale destruction. [+] Nepal quake happened due to collision between
Indian and Eurasian crust blocks. Indian subcontinent is going beneath Nepal, 5cms a year but
this EQ did not change boundaries. [+] A continental-continental plate collision produce shallow-
focus earthquakes (less than 70 km), because they're less dense than Oceanic plates. And both
plates have same density. [+] Operation Maitri: Indian army led rescue and relief mission for
Nepal earthquake. [+] India sends NDRF teams, Sashahtra Seema Bal (SSB), C-130J super
Hercules for aerial surveillance. BSNL to allow call towards Nepal @Local rate, Mumbai ham
radio operators helping in coordination [+] India sends DNA sampling kits- to identify severely
disfigured dead bodies.[+] China says it is not competing with India to send more relief to Nepal
[+] Kathmandu has 7 world Heritage sites. Some of them got destroyed. (1) Basantapur Durbar
Square- the residence of Royal family (2) Patan Square Durbar, known for its Buddhist
architecture (3) Dharahara tower, the 100-ft tower to provide view of the city [+] Nepal
earthquake couldn't damage heritage sites in Delhi because (1) outside the 200kms from
epicenter (2) structure built on alluvial soil of Yamuna bank, are more vulnerable than structure
in hardsoil ridge area. Notable Delhi structures: Qutab minar, Nila Gumbad, Humayun's Tomb,
Purana Quila, Shahi Burj.
Earthquake resilience: Lessons from Japan. [+] India forgets its disaster is very quickly e.g. 2011
Tsunami. Hence followup action / campaign is not sustained. [+] as such, earthquake proof
buildings are more expensive than ordinary buildings. But government should provide tax relief
during construction. [+] The media should also highlight the benefits of such buildings. [+] India
needs to develop its own technology for earthquake resilient buildings. We cannot import
Japanese technology because they're not suitable to our requirements and very expensive per
capitawise. [+] Japan has strict laws- if a building gets damaged in medium earthquake or
collapses in large earthquake then builder and guilty officials are punished in stringent manner.
[+] Japan has a real-time Earthquake Early Warning (EEW). Earthquake wave travels @8
km/second. But electronic signal can travel faster so using EEW system, Japanese trains,
elevators, industrial machines etc. are automatically shut down the moment earthquake is
reported in any region [+] School level: Disaster drills are conducted on a regular period;
disaster Management is part of school syllabus, so their kids don't have to waste too much time
in finding coaching material for Japanese UPSC GS3 paper.
When forest land is diverted for non-forest purposes like setting up industries/infra. Then
companies required to pay money in the compensatory afforestation fund. ~40k crores
Collected so far, but not utilised properly due to lack of clear guidelines and laws. [+] 2004:
Supreme Court ordered setting up a Compensatory Afforestation Management and Planning
Authority (CAMPA). [+] 2015: union Cabinet clears before this purpose. They will set up statutory
bodies at union and State level for management of the money collected in compensatory
afforestation fund. [+] Existing money will be transferred to non-lapsable interest bearing funds
under Public accounts of union and respective states
Antarctica is surrounded by Southern Ocean. This ocean accounts for 10% of the worlds oceans
and 50% of marine mammal biomass. It has multiple species of pinnipeds and whales [+]
Examples of Pinniped- walrus, sea lions and seal. They have whiskers & legs are modified
flippers. [+] Ocean is in news because of Adelies penguins. [+] Adelies penguins are migratory
species, feed on krill & fish, smallest penguin in this ocean.
A new concept called ecological engineering to reduce pests. Ecological engineering concept by
Hyderabad research institute. [+] Focus on pest management through biocontrol agents and bio
pesticides. No chemical spray is required.
Threats to Taj Mahal [+] 50k visitors a day, causing wear and tear to the marble floor. [+]
Because of SC intervention, sulphur dioxide emission is reduced. But still carbon particles from
vehicles and industries present. Given the heat, Mineral impurities of marble get oxidised and
create brown stains. [+] Agra lies in a semi-arid zone, with ~49C in Summer. Hot winds have
abrasive effect on marble [+] Rain causes chipping, cracking and weathering effect on marbel.
[+] The iron dowels used to fix the marble slabs on the building are getting rusted. get rusted
and the rust flows down with rain, getting deposited on the marble.
TRAFFIC, WWF-India and the Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) jointly started new campaign
to stop illegal trade in non-charismatic species like pangolins, monitor lizards, tokay gecko,
turtles and tortoises, lorises, birds, corals, sea cucumbers etc.
The 2016-Simhastha Kumbha, to be held in Ujjain in Madhya Pradesh. Following eco-friendly

measures taken [+] ban on plastic [+] only bicycles and battery-operated vehicles allowed.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Environment and Forests Is unhappy because budget
allocated for MoEF is cut down by 50% this will severely affect ongoing wildlife conservation
programs such as Project Tiger
Gotland islands belongs to Norway and located in Baltic sea. But Facebook showing it in Norway,
hence controversy. Location becomes important for world Geography MCQ
At present Prime Ministers National Relief Fund gives tax exemption to donors. But this money
can be used only to help Indian citizens. [+] Modi asked people to donate here for Nepal
earthquake so, So than guidelines have to be amended. [+] Although under India-Nepal
Friendship Treaty (1950), our government can give "national treatment" to Nepalis for property
and commercial rights. So PM is free to use his discretionary powers to extend the fund for
Nepali citizens,
Nepali citizens launch campaign against Indian media, with twitter hashtag
#GoHomeIndianMedia. Reason [+] Indian journalists present in every IAF helicopter. When
supplies dropped off, they record people scrambling to collect it, to portray 'big brother' image
of India. Nepalis feel their sovereign nation is treated like a 'satellite state' of India, and Indian
media recording it like a family serial [+] Journalist occupying space in IAF helicopter- that space
could be used for carrying supplies or injured victims. [+] IAF pilots not coordinating with the
local officials and creating problems with management of relief efforts, some of the food sent
from India had fungus, breads had crossed expiry date. [+] Scholarly studies on The CNN Effect
show that television reporting has far less impact on foreign policies than the journalist believe.
[+] On the other hand, China Central Television covering the relief operation in a prosaic and
staid manner. [+] Nepali RBI (Nepal Rastra Bank) will give interest free loans to victims of
earthquake. 25 lakh Nepali rupees for Kathmandu valley and 15 lakh NR for other area.
Column1
ngt
ngt
nepal
nepal
nepal
nepal
Month Utility
14_12_DecW1 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 M+I: Later
14_12_DecW1 M+P
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 0P+M
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 0P+M
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 0P+M
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 0P only
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 0P only
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 M+I
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 M+I
14_12_DecW4 M+I
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 olf
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 0P only
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 M+I
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 0P+M
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 0P+M
15_01_JanW2 0P+M
15_01_JanW3 0P+M
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 0P+M
15_01_JanW3 0P+M
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW4 M+I
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 M+I
15_01_JanW4 M+I
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 0P+M
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 M+I
15_02_FebW1 M+I
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 M+I
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 0P+M
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 M+I
15_02_FebW1 M+I
15_02_FebW1 M+I
15_02_FebW1 0P+M
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 0P+M
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 M+I
15_02_FebW2 OLF

15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 0P+M
15_02_FebW2 M+I
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 0P+M
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 P+M
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 0P+M
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 M+I
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 0P+M
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 0P+M
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 0P+M
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW1 0P+M
15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW1 OLF

15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW2 OLF
15_03_MarW2 OLF
15_03_MarW2 0P+M
15_03_MarW2 OLF
15_03_MarW2 0P+M
15_03_MarW2 0P+M
15_03_MarW2 M+I
15_03_MarW2 M+I
15_03_MarW2 0P+M
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 0P+M

15_03_MarW3 0P+M
15_03_MarW3 0P+M
15_03_MarW3 0P+M
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 0P+M
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 M+I
15_03_MarW4 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 M+I
15_04_AprW1 OLF
15_04_AprW1 OLF

15_04_AprW1 OLF
15_04_AprW1 M+I
15_04_AprW1 0P+M
15_04_AprW2 0P+M
15_04_AprW2 0P+M
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF

15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 M+I
15_04_AprW3 OLF

15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_04_AprW4 0P+M
15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_04_AprW4 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 OLF
15_05_MayW1 OLF
15_05_MayW1 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 OLF
15_05_MayW1 OLF
15_05_MayW1 OLF
15_05_MayW1 OLF

Topic
bill to amend medical termination of pregnancy Act
Modi bill to repeal 90 amendment acts
SC asks Government's help to curb online ads for sex-determination
CBSE toppers against CCE: continous and comprehensive evaluation (CCE)

UGC's Prof. Goverdhan Mehta Committee to improve National higher education framework. Later when
Uber taxi rape in Delhi. Need for regulations.
Survey finds Child marriage still rampanent
Schools should be made liable if student is sexually abused. SC verdict awaited
Shadow Committee system by Opposition
Delhi HC gives verdict on 40 year old murder case of Rail minister LN Mishra
Gujarat HC says Muslim girls can marry at 15.
City Spiders for Puducherry and SWAT teams for Delhi
Ashram of Godmen have become centers of Terror
Modi Government says UPA's decision to give reservation to Jats is right. [Bigger picture worth mains/i
reservation verdict comes].
Delhi HC asks information ministry why are you not curbing astrology based TV shows?
Kiran Aggarwal Committee says reduce IAS training period from 103 to 75 weeks and change the train
Survey says Women without mental disability, are dumped into asylums.
Government orders officers not to use private gmail ids for official communication because servers sto
records Act
Babri Masjid petitioner Mohd. Hashim Ansari withdraws from the case.
Janta Dal parties planning a merger. Let them merge first.
Modi to Follow Vajpayee's "Insaniyat" approach for Kashmir. Mostly bolbachchan.
private detective agencies regulation bill 2007
Bombay HC says no need to relook at Fadnavis proving majority in Vidhan Sabha using voice vote.
NIA officials too afraid to touch bomb-sacks. Asked a child to check the shelves in Bardhaman
Mullaperiyar Ball by ball. Basics already covered in old article.
Rohtaks sisters who thrashed men in a bus. Later turns out to be an alleged case of seat dispute rathe
Union Minister Sadhvi Nirajnan Jyoti controversial remarks against opposition parties.
E-governance: "Karnataka MobileOne" app to deliver over 200 state government services via smart ph
rights: UN Population fund report says elderly are unable to access benefits of Government schemes i
Section 309 of IPC criminalises attempted suicide. Law commission recommended Government to rep
Delhi HC says Voluntary castration is not an offense.
RPA: Government tells SC that NRIs can vote from abroad.
Rights: Earlier SC ordered Government to give 3% quota to disabled candidates but NGO filed petition
Government reply.
RPA: allows postal voting Government servents. SC asked Government, can same right be given to int
Superstition: Atleast 1 human sacrifice performend every month in Maharashtra
Kerala state government planning proxy voting for its NRIs in local body election. But notification yet t
SC orders Karnataka HC to wrap up Jayalalitha's disproportionate asset case in 3 months
Earlier bombay HC had stay's Maharashtra Government's 16% Maratha reservation. SC refused to inte
Transparency: SC ordered its registry to make open the procedure followed in handling complaints aga
SC orders Government to consult it before appointing CVC. Because previously appointment made wit
candidate
disrputions in Rajya Sabha after Sadhvi Jyoti's remark- Modi asks partymen to show restrain of speech
Allahabad HC says if a person converts to Islam only for the sake of multiple marriages then such conv
E-Governance: E-file system in all departments of Andhra Pradesh by March 31, 2015
E-governance: Telangana liquor store refuse to install PCs despite State excise Department 's order. Be
computerized-barcode enabled selling of liquor begins then they'll be caught if doing malpractices suc
Rights: Indian blind cup won fourth world cup in South Africa yet went unnoticed from Indian media. S
disabled citizens
Sarv Khap Panchayat wants gotra marriages banned
Mahrastrata state RTI rules forbidding RTIs above 150 words, and how it vitiates the spirit of act.
Home ministry forms GP Mathur Committee to examine need to setup SIT for Sikh riots. Report in 3 m
Andhra Government will withdraw ration cards, LPG connections and welfare benefits of Red sanderwo
case study case as well- for example what if criminal wants to re-join mainstream but can't because h
Outcomes of 2014-Winter session of Lok Sabha
CBSE schools ordered to hold "good governance" essay competition on 25th December. Critiques claim
Citizenship amendment bill 2014
Telengana's Karimnagar muni. To become first in India to introduce zero hour discussion.
UGC planning new accountability mechnism for research funds.
CVC forms panel to give sanctions against corrut officers to CBI
DoPT's IMG Khan Committee recommends online-SSC exam
Aandhra Pradesh to increase Vidhan Parishad seats
DoPT orders ministries and dept.to stop using pvt mail ids because (1) CERT says security threat (2) P
stored outside
25th Dec the b'day of Vajpayee and Malviya to be celebrated as good governance day.
HRD ministry extended good governance competition because some students couldn't attend and PIL
govt endorses SC's passive euthansia guidelines
Kolkata's Jadavpur University convocation protests because of earlier police brutality
govt planning joint sessions of parliament in 2015, to get important bills passed.
CIC to decide if corporate debt restructring falls under RTI- well let the decision come first.
Polavaram Project committed formed to finish dam by 2018. Basics already covered in old article.
Delhi HC says they won't lift ban on Uber Taxi App
Home ministry's new guidelines for acid attacks- basically (1) online database of acid stocks and sales
Home ministry forms an expert group to tackle cybercrime. Let the report come
Rape victim of Asaram Bapu goes missing
election result of J&K and Jharkhand
Modi planning new land ordinance to catalyse PPP and infrastructure. Let him notify first.
Rajasthan ordiance barring people below class8 education from contesting Panchayat elections.
Bill: 15 states ratify NJAC Bill (121st Amendment)
Under Lokpal act, Government employees have to disclose foreign banks account details.
Need for amending CRPF Act
CLPR's "rights in Review" report 2014
Land Acquisition ordinance.
Each state to have on SMART police station - with basic amnesties, receptionist, restroom for constabl
HRD ministry vs. IIT D Chief RK Shevgoankar.
Advertising standards council of India orders Amazon to stop claiming "India's largest online retail stor
prepared.
Amit Shah's name removed from Sohrabuddin Fake encounter case.
Ordiance Raj: Arbitration Act 1986
Modi is considering to give Constitutional status to OBC commission
I&B ministry will ban live coverage of Anti-terrorism operations by amending "Cable Television networ
Good-Governance: CPWD releases "Maintanance Charter" showing deadline of solving complaints
Bill: Government wants to update Whistleblower act to remove national security and sovereignty relat
Corruption: Lokpal act requires departments to upload employees' asset info. of their website. But DoP
bureaucrates. They won't have to give exact bank account numbers etc. so that it can't be misused on
NIA will investigate Assam Massacre by NDFB (Songbijit) group
E-governance: Puducherry's Lt.Governor launches SAFE app- Storage Analysis and Archival Solution fo
E-governance: Gadkari launches webportal to give online approval to heavy vehicles.
Article 371-J and excluse website for it.
Himmat App for Women safety
32k RTI appeals pending because CIC not appointed yet
Government not to scrap collegium system until members are appointed for National Judicial appointm
Raabert Vadra's land deals in Rajasthan cancelled.
Govt extendeds AFSPA in Assam for one more year.
If post is delayed, we can't sue post Office in consumer court because they're protected under Indian
SC refuses to hear pleas against Rajasthan ordiance which bars people below class8 education from c
SC has inhouse mechanism to deal with complaints against the judges. SC has released their operatin
faith in judiciary.
CIC orders Government to upload information about bungalows allotted to political parties.
CBI says India has 22 lakh NGOS and hardly 20% of them file annual income / expense reports. And Ta
NGO data with CBI. On the other hand Union Government ordered Rajanbhai to block foreign funds of
Tharoor's wife was murdered says Delhi police.
E-governance: Hyderabad police launches online portal, offenders can now pay traffic challangean thr
SC refuses to hear plea against NJAC
Government plans to give "Classical langauge" status to Marathi soon.
Earlier CIC had ruled that political parties fall under RTI but they've not yet complied and now refused
SC orders BCCI to pay service tax on selling recorded cricket matches to private TV-channels.
Minority minister Najma Heptulla says there is no need for a new anti-conversion law.
Law panel asks Government to amend law- so that if husband is unable to provide for the wife- his fam
Goa CIC orders Archibishop is a public authority and falls under RTI
Andhra Pradesh Government will shift to "Zero based budgeting" system from next year
Home ministry proposes "IUCAW" crime units to help women in distress in 20% district of every state
Celebrity prisoner Sanjay Dutt's furlough controversy
Presidential rule recommended for J&K after resignation of Omar Abdulla
Bihar CM Jeetan Ram- controversial statements to rumors of removal.
Dera Sacha Sauda chief Gurmeet Ram Rahim booked for castrating 400 followers in his Ashram.
CPWD engineer dismissed from service after remaining on unauthorized leave for 25 years. It shows t
personnel administration.
E-governance: Election commission launched "Delhi Election" App to help voters find out their Constit
National consumer body says RTI applicant is not a consumer, he cannot approach consumer court for
officer, just because he paid Rs.10. RTI has built-in provisions for appeal at FAA and CIC level.
rights issues: WHO considers trans-sexualism a "gender identity disorder". Russian government used
same for gays and lesbians
E-governance: Railways "m-indicator" app for women safety.
Ordinance Raj- Citizenship ordinance
UGCs INFLIBNET portal will have e-content for undergraduation and post-graduation courses, in a mo
this "e-material" provides alternative to the defunct egyankosh- for prelims and mains.
Censor board chairman Leela Samson & 12 other members resigns after Ram Rahim's "Messanger of G
Government says they did not interfere with censor board. The structure function of censor board and
Government organizations.
controversy surrounding Perumal Murugan's book "Madhorubagan" (one part woman) in Tamilnadu. Fr
BJP leader Javadekar says 20 staets will have BJP Chief ministers before next Lok Sabha poll
Shazia Ilmi and Kiran Bedi join BJP
Over 15k CCTV camera installed for Obama visit. Delhi HC says keep them running even after Obama
Kiran Bedi's 6P formula for women safety: people (parents, principal etc.), politician, police, prosecutio
and interviews
Tribal rights: in the late 90s, Reang (Bru) tribals fled from Mizoram to Tripura, due to ethnic violence. G
and 1 pant for the whole year- saying if we give more facilities they'll only stay in relief camps instead
reprimanded Government for this mindset.
Punjab state government launches a new scheme "Drugs peddlers ke baare mein information n dedo
181 or on mobile number 7696-181-181 through WhatsApp, then you'll be awarded Rs.10,000
rights issues: Pope Francis asked men to listen to women's ideas more and not be male chauvinists.
SC says it can't give bail to a murder convict on the grounds of insanity alone.
Government says there is no deliberate delay in appointment of CIC, CV and Lokpal, we'lll appoint the
Last year 7% of SC judgements dealt with Constitutional matters
Article 108: the preconditions of a joint sitting of Parliament.
rights issue: Mcdonald staff throws out a street kid from its premise- even though a customer was will
EC allowed Tibetian refugees to registered voters id cards for Delhi assembly elections. It'll help them
Haryana Government had decided to reduce retirement age of Government employees from 60 to 58-
Punjab-Haryana HC refuses to entertain pleas agaist this decision
Child-rights: Pope says couples need to show 'responsible parenting' rather than breeding like rabbits.
Rights issues: Navy is working on a policy to allow women officers on-board warships in the next few
RPA: Chief Election Commissioner H.S. Brahma says India has 83 crore eligible voters= even more tha
E-governance: Andhra Pradesh police launched I-CLIK (Instant- Complaint Login Internet Kiosk)- to hel
Rights issues: Gurgaon traffic police launched Pink-Autos exclusively for women
Gujarat becomes first state in the country to allow direct recruitment of Police inspectors.
EC censures Kejriwal for violating model code of conduct through his communal speeches
SC verdict on BCCI- bringing it par on other Government organization- for RTI and public accountability
good thing - .
Nithari killer Surender Koli's death sentence commuted to Life sentence by Allahabad HC, because ino
Delhi police had arrested one Liaquat Shah for terrorism charges, NIA investigation reveals it to be bog
After rape incident, Government had banned online taxi booking service "Uber". But to dodge the ban
following its footsteps.
CM Akhilesh Yadav says law and order situation better than other states, IF you look at statistics only.
need for amending Cinematograph Act 1952 and censor board, based on Justice Mukul Mudgal Comm
categories of films: U, U/A, A, under-12, under-15. (2) let junta file grievances to separate tribunal (3)
clearing moving- so that delays, discretion and corruption reduced. New Censor chief PAhlaj Nihalani s
Certification Appellate Tribunal (FCAT) is a statutory body under Cinematographer Act. It hears appeal
aka Censor Board.
Pranab's speech for 66th Republic day = essay fodder.
Padma Awards. Such PIN-award MCQs not seen in recent CSATs.
Ahmedabad Muni.Corps asked all schools to organize "Saraswati puja" on Vasant Panchami- creating c
Urdu Schools.
Hindu Mahasabha asked Saif, Amir etc celebrities to convert to hinduism to prove loyality to their wive
in present system, a woman can get only short-service commission upto 10 years in the army, hence
army. They had won the court-case but issues remain
When National anthem is played, Principal Dignitary & persons in uniform take salute. Those in civil dr
salute during 26th Jan hence some controversy in social media.
E-governance: Chandigarh Civic administration launched a mobile app to deliver all citizen- centric se
Original preamble did not contain the words "socialist and secular". They were added during emergen
Prasad says there should be a 'debate' on whether we should revert to old preamble?
Kejriwal says if same party rules both union and states then its dangerous for democracy!
SC says a toilet in structure is not a toilet in reality until it has proper cleaning and maintanace
Human rights watch (HRW) - a top international NGO body criticises India's record- violence against m
Gujarat Forensic univ. signs MoU with a Finland company to build a "Cyber-army" against terrorists!
E-Governance: Modi aims for m-governance and make mobile numbers as new identity for citizens- so
E-governance: award-winning projects at 18th E-governance conference
Women-rights: Australian court releases a stalker after he claims he was inspired by Bollywood movies
in love! Perhaps a wakeup call for how movies are written and produced in India
Pravasi Bharatiya Awards made from 22-carat gold worth Rs.2.75 lakhs; while Padma awards brass wo
As per Rajasthan Panchayati Raj Ordinance, only those with class 8 and 10 degrees can fight Sarpanch
candidates using bogus marksheets (2) at many places crooks elected unopposed because rivals coul
posts vacant because no applications received!
Law Commission chairman Justice A.P. Shah recommends amending Civil Procedure Code and setting
speedy disposal of high value commercial suits- preferably by enacting a new law. Until Governmen
A CPI leader sent to 4 weeks jail for contempt of court. Columnists demand relooking at the "imperial"
originally provisions were made to enforce foreign rule over natives.
Mullaperiyar water level declined after Tamilnadu began discharging water. Basics already covered in
Controversy about political parties doing money laundering after some NGO Avaam vs AAP controvers
Representation of People's act- a political party has to give audited annual statement of all contributio
from income tax payment. NIPFP's black money report even recommends reducing such IT-exemption
Mumbai police summons Arun "I-m-in-every-Prakash-Jha-movie' Rampal for meeting Jailed Gangster A
Union tells SC that IT Act section 66A is not meant for curbing freedom of speech, but only to curb cyb
Union Home Secretary Anil Goswami sacked for trying to influence CBI officials not to arrest a TMC lea
resigned, thus eligible for whatever pension-gratuity benefits of IAS officer. Some columnists demandi
get such benefit otherwise its same like those tainted judges who resign before they can be impeache
Ethical case study.
Research paper in World Development journal says reservation of backward communities didnt hurt p
cousumer court says if a person doesn't have id-proof, railway still cannot throw him out of the train
NHRC orders Delhi police to deploy constables in night shelters to ensure junta safety
45,000 Pak-Hindu refugees living in Jammu. They're eligible to vote in parliament election but not in J&
law forbids it. Now PDP says 'middle-path' to ensure Government formation with help of BJP.
CBI court bails Gujarat cadre IPS officers D.G. Vanzara and P.P. Pandey in the 2004 Ishrat Jahan encoun
DG Vanzara's possible appointment as a director of some Gujarat-state-PSU.
SC says if a candidate hides his past-criminal record, junta can't chose right candidate, due to lack of
be declared null and void.
Saradha chit fund ball by ball- arrest of xyz leaders, TMC wants SC to moniter CBI probe, SC refuses
upcoming lecture on youtube
Delhi HC awards 30 years to Vikas Yadav and aide for honor killing of Nitish Katara.
1981: During Indira Ra, Inter-state agreement signed among Punjab, Haryana and Rajasthan for sharin
moved to SC demanding more water share from these rivers.
Secularism: Obama says the religious intolerance of new India would have shocked Gandhi. Jaitley rea
Secularism: Amit Shah says BJP respects preamble the way it is- we don't have any plans to replace th
Union Government's Justice G.P. Mathur panel's suggestion to make a new SIT to reinvestigate 86's An
Delhi assembly election to use VVPAT. Basics already covered in old article.
Delhi voters will be inked with brush instead of stick, because brush-painting helps drying the ink at fa
AAP leaders apprehensive about temping of Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). But EC it's not possibl
Delhi EC asks Schools to distribute pledge letter, get parents sign on them "we'll vote in assembly el
Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan has mooted the idea of automatic suspension of members who e
specific rule on how to deal with those unruly elements.
Pros and Cons of giving full statehood for Delhi. (Because AAP manifesto demands it)
Nepalese Constitution drafting Committee gives guiding principles for new Constitution- democracy, f
inclusiveness
BJP manifesto for says North Eastern Immigrants will to be protected in Delhi. Word "immigrant" draws
Churches in Delhi vanadalized. Home minister Rajnath orders quick action
Bihar Power struggle between Manjhi and Nitish Kumar
Collegium system to continue until NJAC is appointed for selecting judges
Social justice ministry celebrated Raahgiri day on 1st Feb 2015. Focus: Disabled peoples' participation
Dayare cordoned off for vehicle movement. Then citizens free to cycle, walk, run, skate, play, dance,
community to get together and celebrate their city and their lives. The concept is inspired by Ciclovia
Many other nations follow it as Open Streets, Summer Streets, etc. names.
GS4: World bank definition of CSR is business commitment for economic development and quality life
large. Companies have to achieve "Triple bottom Line approach" i.e. balance of economic, environme
shareholders' interests.Indian businessmen long pursued idea of idea of trusteeship, charity and phila
educational, cultural and research projects. But now they must work beyond charity and philanthropy,
responsibility- to improve junta's economic and social conditions with main focus on weaker societies
GDP. (- Vice President Hamid Ansari)
GS4: Government communication: ideal characteristics- (1) use digital media and social media for the
especially during emergency and natural disasters. (2) officer's communication must have speed, acc
Perception management is also important. (4) webpage must provide info on policies-initiatives, verna
(5) use cloud computing to minimize costs. (- Vice President Hamid Ansari)
E-governance: Modi aims for Digital lockers - to store each citizens birth certi, marksheets etc which h
Maharashtra already has this, covered in old article
Freedom of Speech- RSS magazine warns Government against the "5th column members in the armed
publicity against their own establishment"
Gujarat state government planning to allot Fair price shop (raashan ki dookaan) licenses to women on
Freedom of Speech: Chinese Government ordered blog and chatroom platform owners to register all u
they'll never challenge Communist political system, further tightening control over Internet use.
Freedom of Speech: AIB (All India Bakchod group) organized a show with filmstars full of profanity, wit
Ashoke Pandit even abused them on twitter and MNS demanding unconditional apology. Video remove
If a man refuse To provide maintenance to his estranged wife, it amounts to economic abuse says De
2008: After Kandhamal riots in Odisha, victims began moving out to Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Gujar
These people have migrated for the search of a better livelihood and not because of the persecution b
SC is concerned: India till now is a secular country we dont know for how long it will continue to rem
religion from civil laws. Observation comes after a group demands Christians o be exempted from Indi
One Billion Rising, a global action plan that involves a billion activists in over 207 countries coming
end violence against women and girls. Recently they organized an event at Delhi University.
The Jawaharlal Nehru Universitys plans to open a special hostel for Northeast students
SC says if a public servant practices bigamy, then Government is free to sack him, irrespective of relig
religion only as long as it doesn't violate public order, health or morality. Polygamy is not integral par
the power of the State under Article 25
Kejriwal victory in Delhi state assembly election and the ball by ball commentary.
After vulgar AIB Roast video starring Bollywood celebrities, a PIL has been filed-demanding that Union
create a mechanism to keep a check on videos uploaded on YouTube. Topic ignored for exam, until Bom
Annual World Press Freedom Index (WPFI) ranks India 136 out of 180 nation.
Freedom of Speech: Censor board chief prepares a list of vulgur words to be banned from movies- incl
Activist Teesta Shetalvad accused of duping Post-Godhara riot victims. SC gave stay on her arrest.
A fifth petition Filed in the Supreme Court challenging the constitutional validity of the National Judicia
Critics say Modi Government's Strategy of naming centrally sponsored schemes With Sankritised Hind
hurt national integration.
To cut down the burden of backlog cases, Government needs to come up with alternative dispute reso
number of people have to litigate against the government in the court, then it is a sign of Bad governa
1984, October 31- Indira Gandhi assassinated. Subsequent Anti-Sikh riots left over 3000 people dead
Maharashtra etc. Modi Government had declared 5 lakh compensation and setup Justice GP Mathur Co
SIT to reopen the cases. So now 3-member SIT formed under IPS officer Pramod Asthana.
Government doubled the sharecapital of National Minorities Development and Finance Corp. from Rs.1
norms: 73:26:1 among Union : State: (individual and institutions.). The earlier ratio was 65:26:9.
Delhi Polices Special Investigation Team (SIT) questions Shashi Tharoor about Mysterious death of his
After Uber-taxi rape, the app was banned in India. Now they added new safety-features in the app: (1)
contacts in real time. (2) SOS button to call the local police directly.
Dalit NGO launches online tool-Atrocity Tracking and Monitoring (ATM). Send message to 9898915455
to help the victim.
Previously Himachal Pradesh assembly became paperless by adopting E-technology. Now Haryana pla
instead of papers.
Modi Government had appointed Shashi Kant Sharma (IAS) as CAG. But some 'concerned' citizen filed
has taken some controversial decision as defense Secretary. CJI refused to intervene saying the court
meddle in constitutional appointments. As per the Constitution, it was the Executives prerogative to
President.
Narendra Modi temple in Rajkot. Although after his displeasure, the organizers decided to shut it down
To implement Bezbaruah report on safety of North East people- Government mooted following ideas: (
big cities (2) NCERT to add NER history-culture-geography in class 6-12 textbooks. HRD ministry will a
10,000 UGC fellowship for NER-students (4) more NER-people to be recruited in Delhi Police by relaxin
more funds for Imphal sports centre and setting up National Sports University in Manipur State throug
Every month, National Legal Services Authority (Nalsa) to Organize Lok Adalats throughout the Countr
one month for cheque bounce & bank frauds. This will be reduce pending cases and deliver cheap jus
E-Courts Mission Mode Project being done by Justice Department, SC and NIC. Phase 1- computerize th
payment gateways. These e-Courts portals will be part of the National Judicial Data Grid. They'll help c
The representation of People's act prevents under trial prisoners from voting rights. However, under tr
This conundrum violates article 326 of the Constitution which permits voter disqualification only on t
crime or corruption.
Tharoor says hanging of Parliament attack mastermind Afzal Guru, was a badly handled event, becaus
was not given to them.
Shirin Dalvi, the editor of Urdu newspaper Avadhnama had published a cartoon of Charlie Hebdo maga
columnists gone crazy about protecting the freedom of speech.
Star channel has won telecast rights for world cup matches. But they're required to share the feed wit
Prasar Bharti further gives these videos to private channels. Hence Star went to SC but no relief.
Brazil's Electoral court aims to ban corporate donations to political parties, to combat nuisance of mon
Earlier an Kerala MLA went to Mullaperiyar dam with journalists, to show how weak and dangerous it h
CISF cover to protect the dam against such 'elements'.
UGC increased NET/JRF exam fees to 1000 | 500 | 250 for General | OBC | ST/ST respectively. JNU stud
21 Feb: International Mother Tongue Day celebrated by CBSE and NCERT celebrate
Earlier union Government amended Motor Vehicle Act to permit E-rickshaws. But dismal registration in
campaign.
The Manjhi vs Nitish drama finally ends. Nitish becomes CM of Bihar, after Manjhi resigns instead of fa
Under the present law, a person has to be convicted, before he is disqualified for elections. SC says it
person from contesting elections as soon as criminal charges are framed against him will stigmatise h
Madhya Pradesh Professional Examination Board or Vyavsayik Pareeksha Mandal- Is nicknamed "Vyap
the involvement of Chief Minister in Vyapam recruitment scam.
Previously SC appointed N.R. Madhava Menon Committee on sarkaari ads had Recommended that na
office-bearers should not be mentioned in government advertisements. SC aims to order Government
Government opposed claiming this will amount to a violation of article 19 and imposition of pre-censo
Attack on Christian Churches in Delhi. Modi assures religious freedom and protection to all regions.
Gangster Abu Salem convicted by Terrorist and Disruptive Activities (Prevention) Act (TADA) for Pradee
imprisonment. But during extradition from portugal, indian Government had assured their court we wo
Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, Kerala, Karnataka, Orissa and Chhattisgarh have already given 5
Union wants to take states in confidence and then move an amendment for 50% women reservation i
1/3rd reservation. Government will also promote engendered cities with the objective of welfare of w
Delhi Government says Private electricity distribution companies fall under the ambit of CAG. Compan
CBI's Wrong interpretation of RTI act- CBI says it can provide RTI information about corruption Charges
ongoing CBI probes against outsiders.
The safe harbor clause in IT act, ensures that websites are not punished if their platform is used for i
After vulgar AIB-roast show in YouTube, PILs filed in Bombay HC to undo this 'safe harbor'- and require
content before serving it to large internet audience. in the meantime, Bombay HC grants interim relie
language was vulgar but not obscene.
Freedom of speech: Given the rise of Internet trolls, many popular news websites have stopped comm
up with a novel idea- reading articles is free, but to post comment a person will have to buy subscripti
Delhi Municipal Corporation (NDMC) facing financial crisis. They plan to 'auction' naming of new buildi
members give money. Critiques argue even goonda-log can get buildings and streets named after the
case study for GS4
Supreme Court judge Rohinton Fali Nariman says Indira Gandhi shouldnot have included the words so
Constitution through the 42 nd amendment 1976. Because Socialism and secularism are inbuilt in our
policy (DPSP)
Modi wisdom: Large case pendency in India because laws adopted by unqualified people, and so man
done: (1) We are uploading all the bills on government websites, seeking opinion of the lawyers on ho
Modi-raj, over 1700 laws repealed.
In recent times, many safety apps for women- like Himmat, SmartShehar, VithU, BSafe, Raksha. Major
police/relatives for help. But if mobile already snatched/broken by the goonda-log OR if police fails to r
Besides,These apps work only in smartphones. Hardly 13% of total Indians have such phones. So wha
Tamil Nadu High Court high court bans beauty contests in colleges, because it leads to erosion of mor
New guidelines for speedier child-adoption process. (1)annual target 15k adoption (2) deadline for eac
CARA (Child Adoption Resource Authority)- monitoring on a weekly basis. (4) juvenile protection bill t
hospitals/maternity homes to prevent illegal adoptions. (5) centralized registration at CARINGS (onlin
homes will be given Aadhar Cards (7) Media awareness campaign
Under the current law, divorce is granted if a couple jointly file appeal with mutual consent. Otherwise
grounds under which a marriage can be dissolved such as adultery, cruelty, insanity, desertion or med
process very time consuming, expensive, sometimes either party will deliberately find 'faults' to defam
amend Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, and the Special Marriage Act, 1954, to make irretrievable breakdow
living separately 3 years. Bill pending in Rajya Sabha since 2013. Modi Government hesitant to amend
crooked women will enter in sham marriages and run away with half property by misusing such facility
'live-in' relationship & breakdown of family values.
of the 884 SC judgements in 2014, only 7% dealt with substantial matter of law & Constitution. remain
high courts. Due to majority of such chillar cases, SC is bogged down with unnecessary work.
2014: Gujarat local authorities bill 2009 passed- it provides for compulsory voting in the local bodies a
Gujarat election commission will Offer the option of online voting in the six municipal elections.
Delhi court asks Government whether online sale of sex toys violate IPC Section 377
Modi vs Anna vs Opposition parties on Land ordinance. Basics already covered in old article
Vyapam-recruitment scam SIT says Madhya Pradesh Governor Ram Naresh Yadav also involved.
RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat and Shiv Sena allege Mother Teresa used money and sweet talk to convert
Central Information Commission (CIC) orders Delhi civic bodies to distribute sweets to people on all na
(Earlier they'd do it only on religious festivals.)
NHRC orders placement agencies to give full report of people employed as domestic servants after re
trafficking, and even selling poor Indian women abroad.
E-Governance: New Delhi Municipal Council launches "NDMC pleasefix" App to help citizens lodge com
Rahul Gandhi on leave of absence.
Government withdraws insurance, coal mining and motor vehicle amendment bills from Rajya Sabha.
due to Modi majority. Then again put in Rajya Sabha- it'll not be passed due to Modi minority. But then
1 house passed while 2nd house rejected the same bill. In joint session Modi majority will get everythi
Essar group whistleblower leaks internal documetns showing how Nitin Gadgari used Essar yatch "Sun
Opposition demands action under prevention of corruption act for any undue favors given to Essay for
Rajya Sabha MP Ramdas Athawale demands social boycott and breaking of arms and legs of rapists.
SC says that If a Christian reconverts to Hindu Schedule Caste, he'll get reservation benefits, but cond
parents/grantparents belonging to the said SC caste.
Delhi police aims to install front-facing CCTV cameras on emergency vehicles like ambulances, disaste
This will help recording evidences and ensure other drivers act responsibly.
Quotes Against the ordinance Raj (1) GV Mavalankar: ordinance are inherently undemocratic, and can
urgency or emergency. (2) mid 80s: Bihar Government began practice of issuing and renewing Ordina
power to promulgate an ordinance is essentially a power to be used to meet an extraordinary situation
serve political ends, because it is contrary to all democratic norms that the Executive should have the
e-gov: Delhi Government to upload e-ration cards on its website. Beneficiary can take printout and use
Kejriwal launched officially in March Week4
Delhi is a union territory therefore, The Home Ministry is the nodal authority of making all top bureauc
between AAP Government vs MHA about appointment of Delhi chief Secretary. Result: Goa Chief Secre
Secretary.
CIC orders Delhi Lieutenant-Governors office comes under RTI act. Delhi HC orders Attorney General's
been dodging transparency, citing pending court cases about interpretation of "public authority" term
Modi becomes the first prime minister to have launch @parliament canteen.
Over the last 10 years, expenditure by political parties for the Lok Sabha elections has raised by 400 p
spent, 2014 election: ~1160 crores spent.
Japan willing to allow Indian lawyers to practice in Japan if India reciprocates by allowing Japanese law
Western Uttar Pradesh police setting up a social media monitoring lab to counter hate speech on Face
used social media to incite riots at Muzaffarnagar, Deoband, Meerut and Aligarh.
Land acquisition bill, Modi vs Opposition vs Anna ball by ball. Basics already covered in old article on L
Salman khan driving and poaching cases.
Modi's Motion of thanks to President speech, defeated in Rajya Sahba. The modified version thanks Pr
of high level corruption or black money. This motion-thanks-defeat is fourth in the history of Indian pa
Delhi judge orders Government to strictly implement Arms act and stop people from firing guns during
bystanders.
SEBI offers 2 years special hardship leave to its women employees. So they can take care of their fam
maternity leave. If other organizations followed the same model, it'll help increasing women participat
Maharashtra Government scraps 5% Muslim quota in Government jobs and admissions. But those who
stay.
Kerjiwal vs P.Bhushan vs. Yogendra Yadav. Kejriwal's naturopathy.
International Parliamentary Union (Geneva) says women participation in parliaments have doubles in
parliamentary seats worldwide. Best nation: Rwanada, Boliva, Andorra, Sweden. Over 120 nations pro
Perhaps India should consider as well.
An Assamese Muslim trader was arrested in Dimapur (Nagaland) on charge of raping a Naga woman. N
referred him as IBI (illegal Bangladeshi immigrant). The enraged mob took law into their own hands, b
him in full public view at town square. Version 1: Shows the disenchantment of people towards Indian
Person was falsely accused, but murdered after he refused to pay illegal tax imposed by Naga secessi
58 Rajya Sabha MP petition to Vice President, to begin impeacehment process of Madhya Pradesh HC
From 2009, Army adopted "Command Exit promotion policy", under which the officers from infratry an
promotion to Colonel rank, compared to the officers from other branches. Finally Army tribunal has qu
Modi government setting up One-Stop Centres provide assistance, legal advice and psychological co
plus a mobile helpline number.
RTI : PMO refuses to disclose The letter correspondence between CM Modi and PM Vajpayee during Go
Cannot be disclosed. Third party being Modi himself.
99th Amendment Act 2014 replaces collegium system with NJAC. A National Judicial Appointments Com
court. Many PILs filed in SC against this act. Agitated attorney general says "judges job is to judge cas
independence of judiciary does not include sitting judges making judicial appointments."
SC upholds life sentence for 6 oil-mafias who murdered IOC manager Manjunath Shanmugham for his
case is going on in one court to another for last 15 years).
Union Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju says Article 370 (J&K) of the Constitution is a temporary a
be removed, to fully integrate J&K into India. However, he also confessed that Modi Government doesn
amendment bill, so opposition shouldnot worry.
Law Commission- Justice A.P. Shah: 255th report about electoral reforms (1) ban newspaper advertisem
Independent candidates from contesting elections because mostly they're dummy candidates with no
in paid news- disqualify him (4) ban election related broadcast from both print and electronic media fo
exit polls and bring more transparency in their methodology. (6) make it compulsory for parties to dec
need collegium / selection Committee to pick Election commissioners (8) did not favor compulsory vot
to recall- right to proportional representation.
Rahul Gandhi's security profiling / political snooping.
British film maker Leeslie Udwin made a documentary "India's daughter" about Dec 2012 gangrape. S
Jail, who showed no remorse and instead blamed the victim. Government of India bans its telecast on
ban arguments (1) Mukesh's villainous remarks will enrage the public, scare the women and may crea
Supreme court so not apt to release such video, they may affect judge's viewpoint about the accused.
Mukesh to make such controversial remarks and / or she filmed him while he was unaware of the cam
down by Tihar jail administration. Anti-ban arguments (1) need to expose the regressive male mindset
video fully. (3) Leeslie had got all raw footages cleared by Tihar jail administrator, only after that movi
Special CBI Judge Bharat Parashar summons Mohan for coal scam. Mohan, Kumar Mangalam Birla and
Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA) 1988 for giving Talabira-II coal block to Birla's HINDALCO. Prime min
he is in the office or outside the office. Although Mohan may try to dodge it by saying, I was a public s
necessary before beginning my prosecution under PCA act. Then ball will fall in President Pranab's cou
Law Commission- Justice A.P. Shah: 255th report about electoral reforms (1) ban newspaper advertisem
Independent candidates from contesting elections because mostly they're dummy candidates with no
and split vote share. (3) if any candidate indulges in paid news- disqualify him (4) ban election related
for 48 hours before election (5) need to regulate exit polls and bring more transparency in their metho
declare all donations, even if less than Rs.20,000, if total 20 crores or 20% of party contribution come
on ECI website, penalty for non-disclosure. (7) need collegium / selection Committee to pick Election c
Sabha/leader of largest opposition party and CJI. (8) did not favor compulsory voting model of Gujarat
proportional representation or even state funding of election. However, indirect subsidies in-kind may
common electoral rolls for parliament, Vidhan Sabha and local assembly elections by amending the re
prevent voter harassment after results. (11) setup more election benches in high court and they shou
conclusion. (12) Amend the 10th schedule about anti-defection. The disqualification decision should b
instead of Speaker/chairman. (12) ECI should be given separate independent Secretariat.(13) if candid
Expenditures, debar him for 5 years, instead of present 3 years.
Budget-2015 session most productive in Lok Sabha over a decade because both houses worked more
Goa Government doesn't list Gandhi Jayanti (2nd Oct) in state public holidays. Later apologizes for Typ
Delhi Government will not give permits to taxis unless they install GPS meters for women safety.
States can setup legislative councils (Vidhan Parishad) only after Parliament approval. Following 6 stat
follow the bicameral system Andhra, Bihar, J&K, Karnataka, Maharashtra and UP. Following proposal
upper house: Assam, Rajasthan and Odisha But parliament yet to clear (2) Andhra wants to raise num
council. There's need for a national policy for creation of upper house in State legislatures. Otherwise
abolish them. According to expert, demand for Vidhan Parishad increasing due to rise in number of po
owned PSUs. Anti-argument: (1) such seats mostly hogged by defeated members of ruling party who g
parishads don't have much power, except delaying legislation for four months. They only increase fina
After Dec 2012 Delhi gangrape, then UPA government had setup Nirbhaya Fund with Rs.1k Crore for fi
hardly 200 crores used so far. Nirbhya fund is part of "public account" that fact is important for prelim
Jat reservation. [+] 1992: Indra Swahny judgement- SC lays 11 parameters for inclusion of backward c
maximum total reservation, subsequently national commission for backward classes setup. [+] 2014,
Jats not entitled for OBC status. [+] 2014, March: UPA government notified Jats as Other backward com
Jats' OBC reservation saying (1) 10 years ago NCBC did a survey and didnot find Jats backward. so, if G
"Retrograde governance" (2) NCBC commission was not in favor of giving reservation to Jats. Its decisi
are compelling reasons to do something opposite. (3) just because state governments have given rese
reasons. Because Jats are politically organized (4) Government should instead focus on giving OBC sta
Constitutional angles: [+] 15/4 and 16/1: state can make special provisions and reservation [+] 38: St
promote education among SC/ST. protect them from social injustice [+] 355: claims of SC/ST in Govern
commission for backward classes [+] 341/342: President to specify castes and tribes in SC/ST.; Epilogu
they already had filled entrance exam forms as OBC category for medical/dental entrance exams, and
converted to General category. But SC refuses to give any relief to them.
2013: CIC ordered political parties are public authorities answerable to RTIs. But none of the parties ap
court. So now CIC says it can't force uncooperative parties, RTI campaigners need to approach govern
RTI purpose if all bodies become uncooperative like this.
Union Information and Technology Ministry launched Bharatniti.in, a public policy portal to put whats a
Indian wisdom. Mains Question: Relevance of online media in policy discourses.
Modi yet to nominate two Anglo-Indian members in Lok Sabha despite completing 10 months in powe
lose entire years allocation of funds under MPLADS. Refer to theory in Laxmikanth
Union Government provides 33% reservation for women in the direct recruitment for nongazetted pos
forces of all Union Territories, Delhi included.
FIR against Ex-Congress Minister Renuka Chaudhary for taking bribes from a person to get him Lok Sa
EC has began de-duplicating exercise to remov duplicate voters by cross-checking voters id numbers
removing duplicates, voting % will be 84-85% in any election.
1st Global Dalit conference held in Washington. They want US congress to pass a resolution condemni
other South Asian nations.
DigiLocker is a Government portal that allows users to save insurance, medical reports, PAN card, pas
other documents in the digital format. They can be verified online and printed. Highest number of use
operated by DEITY - Department of Electronics and Information Technology, under the communication
Government planning to increase it to 1GB.
Political parties are exempted from Income tax and get other tax benefits. Only 200 out of 1600 partie
election. It means remaining 1400 are mainly setup for tax avoidance purpose. Now CIC says their reg
contesting election.
Karnataka Government wants to build 2 dams across Cauvery river at Mekedatu. Tamilnadu Governme
Tamilnadu's watersupply will be affected.
Public prosecutor Ujjwal Nikam says Kasab never asked for Biryani. Nikam cooked up that story to enr
as a scapegoat and misguided youth. Now Maharashtra Government has termed Nikam's action as "un
Lok Sabha Secretariat has put "Godse" as an unparlimentarian word. Shiv Sena MP Hemant Tukaram G
be deemed as an unparliamentarian word for the deeds of one man Nathuram Godse!?
Amnesty international report on death sentences: [+] No. 1 is China. Iran, Iraq and Saudi Arabia accou
courts award ~64 death sentence a year but no hangings in 2014-15 because of SC judgment that me
mercy petition files are also the grounds for commuting death sentences. Latest execution: Kasab (20
American state to legalize execution by firing squad, due to shortage of lethal injection drugs. [+] Pak
army school massacre. ~8k Pakistani prisoners on death row. [+] No credible evidence or statistics to
crime rate in a country .
Karnataka State assembly passes bills: [+] Class 1 to 5 must be taught in child's mother tongue or Ka
language for class 1 to 10, (Except CBSE/ICSE). It'll become law once President assents.
Supremo / Highcommand culture in Indian political parties. [+] Even non-dynastical parties have it e.g
Trinamool Congress to name a few. [+] such centralization comes because our parties don't have inde
check on them e.g. RSS on BJP or erstwhile Anna movement on Kejriwal. [+] Indian state's "maai-baap
transporting people via railways to building industrial complexes through PSUs. Supremo leader tries t
(PM/CM) to control this flow, doll out largesse to votebank, loyal workers, contractors and corporates w
corruption. Political fragmentation with new parties popping up every now and then by disgruntled lea
proposed party etc.
The Parliamentary Standing Committee on Personnel and Law, begins study on holding simultaneous
Committee Chairman Rajya Sabha MP, E. M. Sudarsana Natchiappan (Congress). will save lot of man
India's first four elections were held in this manner, but then practice discontinued due to the dissolut
commission report. L K Advani Anti: Ex-CEC SY Qureshi, because if a State government was dissolved
tolerate that party for four years OR (B) work under presidential rule for 4 years. It'll go against the sp
run like a dictator for five years.
After taking over the power, Modi Government had asked erstwhile Congi governors to voluntarily resi
Modi Government to Supreme court. Aftermath: he was transferred to Mizoram and finally removed fro
Nath Tripathi will hold additional charge of Mizoram.
Delhi Police launches "Beatbook" app. Since British Raj and Cr.PC system, Beat policeman has to recor
pen-paper mode it takes lot of time. This web based app will help moniter GPS Coordinates of the poli
and notify Superior officers Through a centralised server. This follows Modi's vision for "SMART policing
Under IPC Section 304A, rash and Negligent driving gets max. 2 years even if death caused. Supreme
punishment. Delhi HC too says drunk driver is like a suicide bomber and deserves a stern punishment
132nd Inter parliamentary union held at Hanoi, Vietnam. Theme: Sustainable Development Goals: Tu
Sumitra Mahajan attended.
In 2011, municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) was split into 3 parts- North, South and East, by then C
efficiency. But now North and East Delhi civic bodies in financial crisis, unable to pay salaries to staff a
primary school kids. Now, authorities planning for re-merger, but political parties non-committal. Mora
sometimes economies of scale better.
Chief Justice of India Justice H.L. Dattu holding conference of High Court chief justices on good Friday.
conferences held on public holidays. Besides if help on working day then court work will suffer.
Planned merger of 6 Janta Parivar parties: Samajwadi Party, the Rashtriya Janata Dal, the JD (U), the In
and the Samajwadi Janata Party. Their main leaderwill be Mulayam Singh Yadav and Election symbol: B
Delhi High Court says even foreign airline having even one office in India, is bound by the Sexual Hara
Controversies surrounding (1) Mysterious death of Karnataka IAS officer DK Ravi. CBI inquiry ordered.
Fire accident in Parliament complex (4) M.P. Governor's son accused in Vyapam recruitments scam, fou
report says Hooda Government flouted norms to help Raabert Vadra grab land in Haryana. (6) UP PSC
AAP infighting, Medha Patkar quits. (8) SC issues notice to BJP leader L.K. Advani et al for Babri Masjid
bill ball by ball.
Government launches "Twitter Samvad" in collaboration with Twitter and its Indian acquired Zipdial co
be directly sent to citizens' mobile as SMS. Will help in e-governance, disaster Management, rescue op
IT Act Section 66-A removed. Timeline 2008: UPA Government amended IT act 2000 to add 66A- provi
PIL. 2015, March: SC strikes down Section 66A Reasons: [*] Article 19(2) empowers the state to put re
public interest. But the definitions given in IT act section 66A were too vague, and open to misuse. [*]
a copyright of totalitarian regimes, our Constitution envisages a republic and a democracy. [+] Since o
interpretation and arrest even for mere causing annoyance, inconvenience to some VIP. [+] SC-2013 g
authorization from a Senior police officer but guideline not followed always. Assem Trivedi arrested fo
forwarding cartoon about Mamta Benarjee, 2 Pune girls arrested for facebook post about Shiv Sena's f
teenager arrested for a post against SP leader Azam Khan. Anti-arguments [+] Section 69A and 79 sti
block websites and content for protecting public order, India's sovereignty etc. [+] Police can still arre
153 (hate speech), 296A (religious outrage), 505 (Public mischief) etc.
Sri Lankan Prime Minister Ranil Wickremesinghe tables 19th Constitutional amendment bill. Provision
parliamentary system. [+] reduce presidential powers. [+] President can have only 2 terms. Then can
Constitutional changes made by previous President Rajapaksa. Topic becomes important for GS2 Main
Gujarat High Court says live-in-relationship and subsequent breach of promise to marry, is not rape.
When a juvenile is involved in rape, dacoit, murder, its difficult to believe he is not aware of the conse
preset juvenile protection act. Therefore SC asks Government to relook into this matter. Topic ignored
development yet to come
As such U.P. Nagar Nigam Act, 1959 provides for direct election of Mayor. But to ensure their accounta
Bill, 2015 drafted. It empowers state government to remove Mayors for financial and administrative im
unconstitutional.
Chief Justices Conference: fodder [+] some angry it's held public holiday of good Friday, thus hurting s
conference in working day, court work will suffer. [+] 13k courts and 96% districts covered under e-dis
states to improve judiciary. [+] Evergreen problems: corruption @lower courts, manpower shortage, c
delivering perception-driven verdicts from PILs of five-star activists. [+] Modi unhappy because pletho
were setup as parallels to Highcourts. While they're eating lot of budget, yet so much case pendency.
merged together. [+] The relationship between the judiciary and the executive as that of siblings who
when needed. [+] Poorly drafted laws = many loopholes = lengthy litigations and case pendency. Judg
1 judge on every 61865 people! [+] CJI Dattu plans to complete criminal trials in 5 years at district lev
courts.
Haryana Chief Minister demanded a separate High Court for Haryana because Article-214 of the Const
Disability Act 1995 provides 3% reservation to PH. But in higher edu. Institute, hardly 0.5% PH presen
[+] Mohan gets stay order from SC against CBI court summon issued to him. [+] BJP leader Giriraj Sing
Nigerian woman [+] fake lady IAS officer staying at LBSNAA, and alleages that senior officer gave her
[+] Haryana's Whistleblower IAS officer Ashok Khemka gets transferred for finding irregularities in tra
being spied by CCTV camera in a garment store in Goa. [+] As Aprilfool prank, someone circulates fak
Dearness allowance. Finance ministry is forced to explained.
US based Research group says by 2050, largest Muslim population: No.1 India, No.2 Indonesia.
Guj Terror bill as such topic from MarchW4, but updated with some new "PRO" arguments. Gujarat sta
"Gujarat Control of Organised Crime Bill (GUJCOC)". Earlier it was rejected twice: Kalam (2004) and Pra
permitted and admissible as evidence in courts, person can be detained for upto 180 days based on p
SP or higher police officer is admissible in court. [+] state Government and its officers are immune fro
while doing work in public interest and good faith[ {-----} Anti-arguments [+] not aligned with the prov
draconian provisions. Aims to muzzle jholachhap NGOs and civil society activists. [+] POTA had simila
{-----} Pro-Arguments [+] Gujarats vulnerable coastline, rise in number of organized crime gangs. [+]
(MCOCA) has similar draconian provisions. [+] Sufficient safeguards are present- no case lodged witho
Permission necessary before tabling the charge sheet. [+] Maharashtra government Had appointed Dh
problems MCOCA. [+] After 9/11, even Bush Government cameup with Patriot Act 2001, which was Cr
repeat of another 9/11 on US soil.
Cabinet decision on bills [+] Real estate Bill cleared to setup regulatory body At union and State levels
Developer cannot change plan unless two third of the clients agree. All this will help achieving housing
aims to try 16-18 age group teens for murder/rapes as adult criminals.
Ignored: [+] Retired Gen. VK Singh's tweets complaining A section of media is acting as "presstitutues
bad light. [+] Camera spying on Smriti Irani at FabIndia fashion store, Goa. [+] NJAC, Land Acquisition
agencies reject most of the RTI queries and their expenditures are not even disclosed entirely in Parlia
Maharashtra State government's order of compulsory showing of Marathi movies in Prime-time slots in
the author. [+] Maharashtra CM Fadnavis says Government has no plan to ban goat slaughter. [+] Tel
Ignored because Supreme Court guidelines on encounter already Published under polity section. Beyo
here and there.
[+] Election Commission has set up a committee on how to give voting power to inter-state migrants.
place he is residing. A migrant has to get himself enrolled in the new place. if rules modified then Kera
their youth migrate to elsewhere. [+] Government tell SC, it'll workout NRI voting right mechanism in
The National Judicial Appointments Commission Act, 2014, and the 99th Constitution Amendment Act
system with commission system. NJAC commission will select and appoint judges in SC+HC. Governm
commission - CJI, two senior-most Supreme Court judges, the Union Law Minister and two eminent per
Another panel made of PM, CJI, and leader of the single largest political party in the Lok Sabha.
[+] Shiv Sena leader Sanjay Rauts demand that Muslims be disenfranchised to end vote-bank politics
in Haryana.
Haryana Government to setup village Secretariat at each village. 1st project @Haibatpur, Jind. These S
sarpanch, patwari and village secretary, Kisan Sewa Kendra, post office, health centre, telephone exch
election office, IB and Police station. + a Common Service Centre to provide domicile, caste certificat
If a person tries to help road accident victim, often police and doctors harass him or donot help him. B
protect such Good Samaritans.
SC order on acid attack victims: [+] states to provide 3 lakh compensation minimum, under Section 3
medicines, food and reconstructive surgery. [+] if hospital refuses to treat, then criminal action.
Election Commissioner Nasim Zaidi will become the next Chief Election Commissioner replacing HS Br
Delhi HC rejects PIL on merger of JEE (Main) and JEE (Advanced) saying every different opinion did not
Legal experts say Andhra anti-sanders taskforce has violated SC order during encounter of 20 smuggl
a person if he has not committed an offence punishable with death or life imprisonment.
Kerala state's new liquor policy: only 5 star hotels can sell liquor. So 4 star walla went to SC. Ig
CrPC Section 197 provides that court can take cognisance of criminal charges against a public servan
sanction for prosecution. SC says this provision is meant to protect honest officers from harassment, a
officials.
[+] Rahulbaba accuses Modi of launching land ordinance to help corporates, who helped Modi in elect
Government refuses RTI on showing decision making process on land ordinance/bill. The RTI campaign
name of Indira and Rajiv from Indira Gandhi Rajbhasha Puraskar and Rajiv Gandhi Rashtriya Gyan-Vi
awards are given for Promoting Hindi language. [+] After merger of janta parties, now rumors of merg
Communist Party of India. Hindu gone crazier than usual. [+] Maharashtra Government justifies its cow
fundamental right. Ignored because basics, pros and cons already covered in excel file. [+] NJAC PIL in
Masarat Alam Bhat arrested for hoisting Pakistani flag in Kashmir. His arrest leads to violent protests [+
"look at my gamchhaa" Yadav. [+] Modi warns RSS and BJP leaders Not to make any irresponsible stat
were petty theft issues without any political or religious motives. [+] St. Stephens student Devansh M
disproportionate assets case. [+] CPI condemns Majoritarian vigilantism. [+] Rajasthan farmer cum tu
AAP worker Gajendra Singh commits suicide at AAP rally in Delhi.
SC orders in favor of female make-up artist Charu Khurana to join Mumbai's professional association fo
couldn't work in Bollywood / regional film industry. however, for a long time this association and preve
even worked on Obama and Modi.
21st April: Civil Services Day celebration. Modi wisdom [+] Bureaucrats life should not remain confine
opportunities. [+] Political interference and intervention are not the same thing. Political interference
necessary and inevitable in a democracy. [+] National unity means an end to the digital divide, urban
inequities. [+] Goldman Sachs report says India would take 10 years to reach the Asian average on go
on administrative reforms.
Feb-2014: Government setup Committee to relook into "official secrets act 1923" in the wake of Right
Secretaries from Home, law, Personnel Department. Ignored till anything concrete comes out
Merger of Six Janata Parivar parties: Samajwadi Party (Mulayam Singh), H.D. Deve Gowda (Janata Dal-
Chautala (Indian National Lok Dal) , Kamal Morarka (Samajwadi Janata Party) and Lalu (RJD) [+] Name
yet to be decided by the committee. It'll have 30 MPs In Rajya sabha so, they'll be will be the third larg
(47) in the Rajya Sabha. But in Lok Sabha they'll be eighth largest party with only 15 members.
Madhya Pradesh judge SK Gangele is accused of Sexually harassing another lady judge. 58 Rajya Sabh
Sabha Chairman Hamid Ansari has set up a three-member panel to investigate the matter. Chairman o
Sen. Members: CJI of Calcutta High Court, and jurist K.K. Venugopal.
Nobel Peace Prize winner Kailash Satyarthi wants a Child Labour (Amendment) Bill, 2012 with followin
14 age, not just "hazardous industries" but in all industries. [+] Stringent punishment if child employe
inspectors and labour inspectors, and if children are found working within their jurisdiction, they must
cognisable and nonbailable offence, so that even the common man can report such cases and action c
rehabilitation of both children and their parents. [+] fix Right to education act and stop commercializa
education must be improved not just number of new students enrolled.
Hindu report says 20k+ died in naxal fight since 1980- However most of them were civilians. Not polic
Government decided to make P.Sathasivam the new chairman of NHRC after After exit of existing chia
ex-CJI and present governor of Kerala. PIL filed in Supreme Court against this move. Reasons [+] gove
as Justice R.M. Lodha, Justice Altamas Kabir and Justice S.H. Kapadia. [+] Justice Sathasivam will have
debt of gratitude to the government for having appointed him Governor of Kerala.
PIL filled against songs like Chaar botal vodka and Mai alcoholic hoon- Because they glorify the use o
whether to ban them or not, even if CENSOS board has approved them.
Patna Highcourt completes 100 years. Following famous persons associated with this court: Dr. Rajend
INC, 1918), Dr. Sachchidanand Sinha (1st President of Constitution assembly). CJI hailing from Panta H
and Justice R.M. Lodha.
Gujarat HC rejects rape victim's plea to abort 7 months old fetus, saying it's against the law. Orders co
because now Government thinking of amending the law. Final outcome awaited. [+] Akshay Tritiya ass
So, gujarat, rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh state officials on extra vigilance to curb child marriage this
Government orders community radio stations email the copy of script 8-20 hours before broadcasting.
and later use community radios to propagate government propaganda. Later Secretary of I&B ministry
consulting him so everything null and void [+] Cabinet delinks Assam from new boundary deal with Ba
developing.
U.S. Commission for International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) is a Committee of US "Loksabha" (Cong
report. Major concerns: [+] India is classified as a tier-2 country, because it has failed to protect religio
Wapsi, targeting of Churches etc. [+] Asked Indian Government to officially condemn any hate speech
India's official stand [+] we have nothing to comment because it is an internal report prepared by US
understanding of India, its constitution and its society. Therefore we do not take cognizance of this Am
Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988- proposed amendments. Min-Max punishments: before 6 months|3
punishment will be seven years, corruption will fall under heinous crime category. Even companies lia
bribe. [+] nonmonetary inducement also covered under bribe definition. Possession of disproportiona
So, prosecution won't have to prove intention to amass wealth.
Nehru Memorial Museum Library Society (NMMLS) reconstituted. PM modi to be the head. 34 member
include third gender category in application forms. [+] TheHindu's research shows India's 6 national p
by upper caste Hindu males, except BSP. [+] NITI Ayog sub Committee to re-organise centrally sponso
Shivraj Singh Chauhan. UP CM Akhilesh Yadav wrote him a letter. Topic ignored because final recomme
Modi for using word "scam India" during his foreign trip, to malign the image of Congress rule. [+] Sho
Maharashtra State assembly for her twits where she criticized Government's order to show Marathi mo
has given stay order on this privilege motion notice. [+] Rahul Gandhis pilgrimage is a carefully chore
anti-Hindu" image. [+] Jaylalitha asset case: Bhavani Singh's appointment as Special Public Prosecuto
allotment to Members of Parliament.[+] Love affair doesn't automatically mean woman has given her
says (1) Sexual consent on falsehood is rape [+] Manipur roadblockade by contract teachers. Black m
Punjab got best governance state award from Modi. e-sarkar paperless Government system. e-district
network. self-attestation permitted instead of affidavits and so on.
Jaitley criticizes court monitored "SIT" type investigation saying [+] investigation officer has a huge in
guilty. So, officer follows the golden rule of somehow making a case against the accused. [+] Will pe
depends on his good luck! [+] Investigation is a police function, therefore courts shouldnt supervise i
economic decision-making. [+] Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 doesn't distinguish between an act
Therefore, Officers believe in passing the parcel rather than taking action- Departments of purchase, d
Modi wisdom on National Panchayati Raj Day (24 April) [+] we must end "Sarpanch Pati" practice i.e. w
stamp of her husband, just like Mohan in UPA raj. [+] PRI members should have 5 year vision. [+] He g
Sikkim and e-Panchayat awards
Maharashtra Government issues ordinance for "right to service" criticism: no independent ombudsma
appointed from bureaucracy, so impartiality will be absent. [+] no provisions for penalty in compensat
Marital rape: UN agencies have recommended India to include marital rape in the Indian penal code. B
amendment. Pro [+] level of education/illiteracy, poverty, myriad social customs and values, religious
sacrament. [+] Sakshi v. Union of India, SC said criminalizing marital rape as "rape" would not be suita
certificate is not a licence for non-consensual sex. [+] Even if marriage is a sacrament, still we've laws
not law against Marital rape? [+] Post Nirbhya rape, J.S. Verma Committee recommended that India s
Kanimozhi introduced a Private Member Bill to include marital rape as a crime in IPC.
DMK MP Tiruchi Siva's private bill for transgender rights, passed in RajyaSabha. It provides for social in
skill development, violence prevention. [+] Statutory National commission for transgender. [+] welfar
reservation for them, pension and unemployment allowance.
Before Assam Vidhan sabha elections in 2016, people will have to prove that Indian citizenship. Becau
Bangladeshi person came to India after 24/03/1971 without approval then he is an illegal immigrant.
Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Bill 2014 passed in Lok Sabha. [+] Teens between 16
such as murder and rape. But Juvenile Justice Board (including psychologists and social experts) will d
teenager should be tried a child or as an adult.[+] Such 16-18 y.o. juvenile will remain in Borstal. Bo
If post-21 years any signs of reform seen then their sentence will be reduced. [+] no provision for dea
crime in 16-18 age but was caught post-21 age, then he'd *not* be tried as an adult. It all depends on
JJ Bill Pro Arguments: [+] National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) statistics says 3,887 juveniles commi
asked Government to relook into this. [+] Yes in poverty and envy the teens may commit crime but its
JJ Bill Anti Arguments: [+] Teens from SC/ST and other sections will be persecuted. [+] hardly ~1400 ju
in many those cases, matter was of elopement / consensual sex. So, it's a misconception that juvenile
criminals come from <50k /per year income group., 50% of them did not finish primary school. So bet
first. [+] SC upheld present system in Swamy vs Raju (2014) and Salil Bali vs Union of India (2013) [+
gangrape, was a misguided teenager with traumatic childhood, who received no support from child we
bad company of crooks. [+] Today's ads, TV & movies encourage children towards sex, alcohol and dru
Gujarat cadre IAS officer Achal Kumar Jyoti appointed as Election Commissioner.
France Parliament to new law to allow authorities to spy on the digital and mobile communications of
even need approval from a judge. They can force Internet service provider and mobile phone compan
install Security cameras in private premises and install keyloggers to spy on private computers.
Under Salva Judum movement , Ex-Congress leader Mahendra Karma had started using tribals private
displacement and extra-judicial killings in Bastar and Dantewara regions of Chhattisgarh. 2011: Supre
Chhavindra Karma began similar new movement called "Vikas Sangarsh samiti".
119th Amendment bill 2013: [+] was pending in Rajya Sabha since 2013. Finally passed. [+] It operat
Boundary Agreement. [+] Land transfer to occur at West Bengal, Meghalaya, Tripura and Assam. [+] I
2,267.682 acres to Bangladesh. [+] 90% fencing finished. But work delayed thanks to land acquisition
1974, India had transferred Katchatheevu island to Sri Lanka. Now DMK, CPI et al demanding Governm
against SC verdict on Berubari case.
[+] Salman jail again bail again. [+] Rahul vows to protect middle class from builder lobby Home Minis
Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act from Arunachal Pradesh [+] Madhya Pradesh Governor Ram Naresh
HC removed FIR against him saying Governor enjoys enjoyed immunity while in office. [+] Pappu Yada
wants to handover power to his own son. [+] Rajya Sabha private member bill to allow Valmiki (SC) to
GST Bill passed in lok sabha. Ignored because matter covered in ppt and videos. [+] The Hindu takes
usual covering NJAC hearings ball by ball. Ignored till final verdict is out. [+] PIL lawyer Manohar Lal Sh
scam. But recently in the court he said parliamentarians are corrupt inhouse criminals. Annoyed SC is
Baba Ramdev says "Putra-Jivak" medicine is classical Ayurvedic name and deals with infertility issues.
Baba asks Member of Parliament is to withdraw their criticism. [+] California State Senate passed a re
genocide organised by the then government and law enforcement officials. [+] Jharkhand High Court
Supreme Court says live-in partner is also entitled to maintenance. [+] U.S. ambassador to India Richa
India such as Ford foundation and Greenpeace International
Prevention of Corruption Act (PCA), 1988 follows penological philosophy which has no room for sympa
convicted of corruption. So, if he's convicted he can't rejoin, he he automatically loses his job.
SC says Judicial activism is our duty against legislative adventurism and executive excesses. Adoption
Legislature and judiciary are independent, yet judiciary can interpret, review and implement laws mad
Apart from Mr, Mrs, Miss and Ms, Oxford dictionary planning to introduce new title Gender neutral title
who does not identify with a particular gender.
Cabinet clears amendment for Whistle Blowers Protection Act of 2011. National Security matters are n
this will lead to harassment of defense deal whistleblowers as it happened in Bofors, Scorpene, Tatra t
1941: Delhi special police Establishment act. 1963: CBI setup via home Ministry resolution. D.P. Kohli w
Column1
rights
Constitution
good-
governance
freespeech
freespeech
rights
rights
e-gov
e-gov
d under polity article. [+] Rajnath gets stuck in elevator. [+] Fabindia vs. Smriti Irani Spying. [+] PMO c
rights
freespeech
rights-R
accountabilit
y
e-gov
accountabilit
y
PRI
accountabilit
y
rights-W
rights-TG
rights-jj
rights-jj
rights-jj
mriti Irani Spying. [+] PMO controls everything in India, says Tharoor while talking about his book INDIA
bout his book INDIA SHASTRA.
Month Cateogry Utility
14_12_DecW1 Banking-Finance 00P only
14_12_DecW1 Industry-Agro 0P only

14_12_DecW1 Fiscal Policy 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 Banking-Finance 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 BoP M+I: Later
14_12_DecW1 infra M+I: Later

14_12_DecW1 Banking-Finance M+P
14_12_DecW1 Fiscal Policy OLF
14_12_DecW1 infra OLF
14_12_DecW1 Industry-Service z_Ignored
14_12_DecW1 infra z_Ignored
14_12_DecW1 Banking-Finance z_Ignored
14_12_DecW1 Fiscal Policy z_Ignored
14_12_DecW2 Industry-MFG OLF
14_12_DecW2 Banking-Finance OLF
14_12_DecW2 BoP OLF

14_12_DecW2
14_12_DecW3 infra 0P+M

14_12_DecW3 Industry-Agro OLF



14_12_DecW4 BoP M+I: Later




14_12_DecW4 BoP OLF

14_12_DecW4 Industry-Agro OLF
14_12_DecW4 BoP OLF


14_12_DecW4 Food Processing OLF
14_12_DecW4 Industry-MFG z_Ignored
14_12_DecW4 Industry-MFG z_Ignored

14_12_DecW4 BoP z_Ignored
14_12_DecW4 Fiscal Policy z_Ignored

15_01_JanW1 Fiscal Policy 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 Banking-Finance 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 Fiscal Policy 0P+M

15_01_JanW1 BoP OLF
15_01_JanW1 BoP OLF
15_01_JanW1 Fiscal Policy OLF
15_01_JanW1 BoP OLF
15_01_JanW1 infra OLF


15_01_JanW1 Banking-Finance OLF
15_01_JanW1 Industry-MFG OLF


15_01_JanW1 BoP OLF
15_01_JanW1 Banking-Finance z_Ignored

15_01_JanW2 Banking-Finance 00P only
15_01_JanW2 infra 0P+M
15_01_JanW2 BoP OLF
15_01_JanW2 industry-agro OLF

15_01_JanW2 BoP OLF
15_01_JanW2 Industry-Agro OLF

15_01_JanW2 BoP OLF

15_01_JanW2 HRD OLF

15_01_JanW2 Fiscal Policy z_Ignored
15_01_JanW2 infra z_Ignored

15_01_JanW3 BoP OLF
15_01_JanW3 BoP OLF
15_01_JanW3 Industry-Agro OLF
15_01_JanW3 BoP OLF


15_01_JanW3 HRD OLF

15_01_JanW3 Industry-agro OLF
15_01_JanW3 BoP OLF

15_01_JanW3 HRD 0P+M
15_01_JanW3 BoP z_Ignored
15_01_JanW3 HRD z_Ignored
15_01_JanW4 Industry-MFG 00P only

15_01_JanW4 Industry-MFG 00P only
15_01_JanW4 BoP OLF



15_01_JanW4 BoP 0P+M

15_01_JanW4 BoP 0P+M

15_01_JanW4 HRD z_Ignored
15_02_FebW1 industry-agro OLF
15_02_FebW1 HRD z_Ignored
15_02_FebW1 HRD 00P only
15_02_FebW1 BoP z_Ignored
15_02_FebW1 Banking-Finance 0P+M
15_02_FebW1 industry-agro 0P+M

15_02_FebW1 BoP OLF
15_02_FebW1 Fiscal Policy 0P+M
15_02_FebW1 infra OLF
15_02_FebW1 Fiscal Policy OLF
15_02_FebW1 Industry-Service OLF
15_02_FebW1 BoP OLF
15_02_FebW1 HRD OLF
15_02_FebW1 Fiscal Policy z_Ignored
15_02_FebW1 HRD OLF
15_02_FebW1 Banking-Finance OLF
15_02_FebW1 Banking-Finance 0P+M

15_02_FebW1 Banking-Finance z_Ignored
15_02_FebW1 HRD OLF
15_02_FebW1 BoP OLF
15_02_FebW2 HRD OLF
15_02_FebW2 infra z_Ignored
15_02_FebW2 Industry-Agro OLF

15_02_FebW2 Industry-MFG OLF
15_02_FebW2 Banking-Finance 00P only
15_02_FebW2 Industry-MFG 00P only

15_02_FebW2 Industry-agro OLF
15_02_FebW2 Industry-MFG 0P+M

15_02_FebW2 HRD OLF
15_02_FebW2 BoP OLF

15_02_FebW3 BoP OLF
15_02_FebW3 Industry-MFG z_Ignored
15_02_FebW3 BoP OLF

15_02_FebW3 HRD OLF
15_02_FebW3 HRD OLF
15_02_FebW3 Industry-Service 00P only
15_02_FebW3 Industry-MFG 00P only
15_02_FebW4 HRD OLF

15_02_FebW4 Banking-Finance P+M
15_02_FebW4 BoP 00P only
15_02_FebW4 HRD OLF
15_02_FebW4 Industry-Service z_Ignored

15_03_MarW1 infra OLF
15_03_MarW1 Banking-Finance 0P+M
15_03_MarW1 Banking-Finance OLF
15_03_MarW1 infra z_Ignored
15_03_MarW1 Banking-Finance 00P only

15_03_MarW1 Fiscal Policy z_Ignored
15_03_MarW1 Industry-MFG 0P+M

15_03_MarW1 HRD 0P+M
15_03_MarW1 HRD OLF
15_03_MarW1 Fiscal Policy 00P only
15_03_MarW2 HRD OLF
15_03_MarW2 HRD OLF
15_03_MarW2 Fiscal Policy OLF

15_03_MarW2 BoP 00P only
15_03_MarW2 Banking-Finance z_Ignored
15_03_MarW2 Industry-agro OLF
15_03_MarW3 HRD OLF
15_03_MarW3 BoP OLF
15_03_MarW3 Industry-MFG z_Ignored

15_03_MarW3 BoP OLF
15_03_MarW3 Fiscal Policy 0P+M
15_03_MarW3 hrd z_Ignored
15_03_MarW3 Fiscal Policy 0P+M

15_03_MarW3 HRD OLF
15_03_MarW3 infra 00P only
15_03_MarW3 industry-agro OLF

15_03_MarW4 Fiscal Policy 00P only

15_03_MarW4 industry-agro 0P+M


14_12_DecW4 HRD OLF
15_03_MarW4 infra 0P+M


15_03_MarW4 HRD z_Ignored
15_03_MarW4 Industry-MFG z_Ignored
15_03_MarW4 HRD OLF

15_03_MarW4 HRD OLF
15_04_AprW1 Fiscal Policy OLF
15_04_AprW1 Banking-Finance 0P+M
15_04_AprW1 BoP OLF
15_04_AprW1 Banking-Finance 00P only
15_04_AprW1 HRD OLF
15_04_AprW1 Banking-Finance OLF

15_04_AprW1 Banking-Finance z_Ignored
15_04_AprW1 Industry-agro OLF
15_04_AprW1 HRD OLF
15_04_AprW1 HRD z_Ignored
15_04_AprW1 HRD OLF

15_04_AprW1 BoP OLF
15_04_AprW1 BoP 0P+M
15_04_AprW2 Industry-MFG 0P+M
15_04_AprW2 Industry-MFG 00P only
15_04_AprW2 BoP OLF
15_04_AprW2 HRD OLF
15_04_AprW2 HRD 00P only

15_04_AprW2 HRD OLF
15_04_AprW2 Industry-Service OLF
15_04_AprW3 HRD 00P only
15_04_AprW3 infra 00P only

15_04_AprW3 infra OLF

15_04_AprW3 Fiscal Policy 0P+M
15_04_AprW3 infra z_Ignored
15_04_AprW3 HRD OLF
15_04_AprW3 industry-mfg z_Ignored
15_04_AprW4 Fiscal Policy 00P only

15_04_AprW4 infra-U 0P+M

15_04_AprW4 infra-U OLF
15_04_AprW4 hrd OLF
15_04_AprW4 Fiscal Policy z_Ignored
15_04_AprW4 industry-agro OLF

15_04_AprW4 hrd M+I
15_04_AprW4 Industry-Service OLF
15_04_AprW4 Banking-Finance 0P+M
15_04_AprW4 hrd OLF
15_04_AprW4 Fiscal Policy 00P only
15_04_AprW4 Fiscal Policy 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 HRD z_Ignored

15_05_MayW1 Banking-Finance 00P only
15_05_MayW1 Industry-Service OLF
15_05_MayW1 Fiscal Policy M+I
15_05_MayW1 infra OLF
15_05_MayW1 infra OLF
15_05_MayW1 infra 00P only
15_05_MayW1 HRD 0P+M

15_05_MayW1 Industry-MFG OLF
15_05_MayW1 infra 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 Fiscal Policy OLF
15_05_MayW1 HRD OLF

15_05_MayW1 industry-agro OLF
15_05_MayW1 BoP OLF

Topic
pre-paid card limit, styleup card by SBI
Wheat MSP increased to 1450 Rs per quintal. Same way Copra: Rs.5500/quintal.
Such oneliner facts are important for CAPF exam!
3rd Report of Shome's Tax Administration and Reform Commission (TARC).
GST bill reintroduction.
Amendments to RRB Act
Ashok Lahiri highlevel Committee on tax clarity
India should build a strategic petroleum reserve storage similar to China and
USA.
Government planning to give Indians the freedom to choose electricity
distribution companies (DISCOMS).
RBI monetary policy update: rates kept unchanged
SAIL 5% disinvestment began
Government to outsource cleaning work in 50 major rail stations
53% Indians hooked to internet every hour.

proposed 9 high speed red-corridors for 160-200 kmphs. Reason: when
railbudget and economic survey comes, it'll contain all such data within it.
Amendments to Companies Act 2013. Mostly technical stuff. Not important
except for interviews of B.Com/MBA profile candidates
PM holds meeting with CMs for replacing Planning commission. Basics already
covered, more attention only after something substantial happens
India is the 2nd largest producer of cotton. Government has relaxed export rules
for cotton but due to Weak demand from China, the export not picking up.
At present we've two-factor authentication for online payment- first PASSWORD
and OTP password from SMS. Rajanbhai is considering single-factor
authentication for small value transaction e.g. no need to get OTP from SMS.
This will reduce cost of service.
Earlier USA had imposed CVD on Indian steel imports. WTO has ordered USA to
stop it.
FM says we need a "Civilized" tax regim to attract investment.
subsidized 5 kg mini cylinders.
Government will dilutes its stakes in public sector banks- until it has only 52%
shareholding left. By selling these shares, Government hopes to earn ~1.7 lakh
crores from market.
Government says HSBC's list of 628 Indian has total ~4500 crore rupees black
money only
SBI launches monthly and yearly composite India to track economic activity .
This will rival HSBC's PMI index
Cabinet clears Constitutional amendment bill to implement GST.
Electricity Amendment bill 2014
Rajanbhai imposed penalty on ICICI and BoB for violating KYC norms, and warned
SBI and Axis to be careful.
US Federal Reserve chief Janet Yellen says she'll "patiently" increase policy rate.
Swiz national bank (their "RBI") will give "negative interest" rate IF other banks
park their cash in Central Bank. This is meant to encourage Swiz bank to lend
money to needy clients.
Book by a Catholic priest suggests "E-Rupee" - currency less transactions to wipe
out all forms of corruption and blackmoney
Union Government increased subsidy to tea plantation owners to rejuvinate their
old bushes.
SEBI bans 260 entities involved in money laundering via stock-trading.
Modi had earlier shifted both plan and non-plan Expenditure designing to
Finance ministry. Parliamentary standing Committee on Finance did not like this.
NOT ONE BIT.
EPFO will give 8.75% intereest rate to its subscribers.
FICCI report says Corporates can give Mobile connectivity to 50,000 villages
through CSR.
Modi has promised housing for all by 2022 under Sardar Mission. But Standing
Committee on Urban Development says erstwhile Rajiv Awas Yojana too failed-
hence unlikely that Sardar will suceed.
Government tabled Mid-Year Review of the economy in parliament. It blamed
past RBI governors for bogus monetary policy and inflation.
Wholesale inflation became 0% in november- lowest in over 5 years. But
Rajanbhai not willing cut repo rate yet
22 Indian railway officers begin training at Beijings Jiaotong University for heavy
haul technology
India is 3rd largest country with Black money stashed abroad- around 6 lakh
crore rupees, says a Washinton research group. #1 is Russia, #2 is China.
Government notifies draft rules for coal e-auction. No point in chasing ball by
ball, let the economic survey come.
SEBI new norms for Mutual funds
pre-2005 currency notes exchange deadline is June 30
Government splits CMD posts in Public sector banks
Insurance ordinance to increase FDI from 26% to 49%
SEBI norms for Municiple bonds
Pahal scheme for directly sending LPG subsidy to user's bank account
Parliamentary panel wants FDI banned in Brownfield Pharma projects, fearing
MNCs will takeover, and availablity of cheap drugs will decline.
only 17% of India junta has health insurance
Hyderabad planning "Food security cards" (FSC) from 2015
TN Vat on mobile is 14.5% so e-commerce sites sending from states where VAT is
5%
Chennai-Bengaluru industrial corridor Master plan in March 2015
Deep Sea port at Bhorsagar, Sundarabans. MoU to be signed in Feb 2015
Chief Economic Adviser Arvind Subramanian says Rajanbhai should reduce repo
rate to boost investment.
EPFO will launch special drive to cover contractual workers.
Rural ministry planning mobile monitering system on MNREGA for checking
worker attendence, work measurement etc.
Jan Dhan accounts to be linked with Adhar- to prevent overdraft misuse
govt planning interest subvention scheme for housing loans
RINL's disinvestment delayed because concerns over chinese dumping
Gold import curbs have catalysed smuggling, says government. Man that's a
commonsense knowledge.
Snapdeal ties up with India Post to help Varanasi weavers sell products online
Rajanbhai says I can't flipflop on interest rate after every up and down in CPI.
Only after inflation appears stablized, I'll reduce repo rate. So please stop
advicing me via stupid newspaper columns
Latest social audit report says Rs.1000 crores misappropriated in MNREGA.
Andhra has scammed the most.
PM, FM and Bank CMDs to hold "Gyan Sangam" meet in January at PUNE, to
chalkout revival strategy for public sector banks
Government planning to put maximum limit of Rs.20,000 for economy airfares,

to prevent private airlines from duping customers using hidden charges
Steel ministry wishes to merge small PSUs with largers ones, to get economies of
scale
latest NSSO survey says hardly 40% rural families depend on agriculture now.
China challanging India in polished diamond trade
CAG says NHAI gave undue benefit to highway developer companies at the
expense of public.
Rajanbhai says Government's debt waiver programs are ineffective at helping
agriculture growth or preventing farmer suicides.
Modi orders ministries to buy DESHI electronic products
international coal prices likely to fall due to oversupply and weakening of
currencies of coal-exporting countries.
Modi approves disinvestment and VRS in Central Inland water transport Corp.
Government to setup a Saffron development authority in J&K
MSME minister says National Coir policy to be rolled out in a month. Let him
notify it first.
RBI guidelines on non-cooperative borrowers. (too technical + bol-bachchan)
Indians companies borrowed over 19 billion from abroad, using Junk bonds
Modi to hold meetings for how to implement Make in India. Meeting outcomes
yet to come and basics already covered in old revision article.
Satyam Verdict to come in March.
Coal auction may violate CVC norms
PSBs have written off loans >1 lakh crore in last 5 years
jailed TMC MP Kunal Ghose says Mamta main beneficiary of Saradha chit fund
scam.
Govt to increase focus on inland waterways. Government wants more foreign
investment in Waterwars...Nitin Gadkari repeats this tape in every seminar.
Delhi HC asks RBI and banks abt the logic behind ATM withdrawl charges. Topic
ignored till verdict comes
Modi says Railways won't be privatized

Modi clears 8 FDI proposals worth 35 crores. Neither names or figure are
highprofile enough to warrant attention for exams.
SEBI allows company promoters to become Public shareholders. Technical nitty-
gritties not important
SEBI allows one-time registration for DPs. You only need to know the basic
functions of DP in DEMAT-PAN card system.
Union plans common clearing house for commodity exchanges

IRDA name changed to IRDA of India under Insurance ordinance. Ignored
because same will be covered in Polity
TRAI recommends new base price for 3G auction. Ball by ball commentry not
important
Modi wants PM Krishi Sinchai yojana merged with MNREGA. Ignored because all
this will be covered in budget-economic survey. Not much point doing ball by ball
in between.
Creation of Niti Ayog to replace Planning Commission.
GDR is being used for blackmoney circulation
ESIC's Panchadeep e-governance programme
Outcome of "Gyan Sangam" seminar of Bankers- FinMin's blueprint to reduce
NPA
Niti Ayog replaces Planning commission. Arvind Panagariya becomes first vice
chairman. Planning commissions' website shifted to
http://planningcommissionarchive.nic.in/
RBI released norms for external commercial borrowing
Modi increases excise duty on petrol-diesel, to earn ~6000 crore rupees. Given
the falling prices of crude oil, this hiked excise duty won't bring inflation.
Difficult to meet the fiscal deficit target, because less than expected income
from taxes.
No custom duty on import of Channa/gram/chickpeas- to promote its sowing in
Indian farms.
given the uncertainity over coal-supply, BEL decides to use "fuel flexible boiler"
it can use 100% Indian coal to 100% imported coal.
fall in crude oil prices, will not help air-travellers because airlines already running
on loss-business so, they're unlikely to reduce ticket prices further.
infra: Gadkari orders new road projects to use concrete only
Gadkari proposes "Char-dham" project to build a New national highways
connecting the four shrines of Kedarnath, Badrinath, Gangotri, and Yamunotri in
Uttarakhand
SEBI chief wants SEBI act amended so that no wilful defaulter can issue debt or
equity instruments in capital market.
Union cabinet clears 2g Auction.
Government plans to hire a PR-firm on social-media, to generate positive interest
among people in disinvestment of PSUs
Gujarat government has "U-Win" Smartcard for unorganized sector workers so
they can get benefit of all Government schemes. Modi planning to implement
same on all india- notification awaited.
Modi tells ministry to get ideas from public on how to spend budget money
Urban minister V.Naidu asks municipalities to increase taxes in next 2-3 years to
provide better urban amnesties.
Coal India workers go on strike, to oppose the coal ordinance.
India's first packaging plant to be setup in Vizag. This will help sea-foodexporters
through Visakhapatnam port
RBI extended deadline for applying for Small bank /payment bank license to 2nd
Feb. Basics already covered in old article.
SEBI new norms for E-IPO
Mining ordinance
World Bank advices countries to reduce fuel subsidies and built a 'fiscal buffer'
that can be used to fight against economic distress in future.
Government has 25 million tonnes of wheat reserves- 3 times the target. If
Government wants they can export it.
India should use more fly ash (thermal power byproduct) in agriculture, says
experts
Banks should participate in BCD (bond currency derivative) instruments- because
it'll help infrastructure finance- says RBI Dy.Governor
Statistics ministry aims to launch "Time-use" surveys to measure employment
levels and contribution of women in informal sector.
Indian economy will grow @6.4% in 2015, says World bank President Jim Yong
Kim
RBI signs pact with European central bank (ECB) for cooperation and information
exchange.
Australian trade minister visits India, saas FTA-conclusion is our priority
December 2014: retail inflation increases from 4.38% to 5% due to highr food
prices
SEBI wants easier norms for doemstic mutual fund managers.
Oil price falls 6 years low- ~45$ per barrel due to weak demand vs
oversupply.RBI says fall in crude oil prices is a boon for India, it'll save $50 billion
in imports
World bank says India will catch up with China's growth rate by 2016
Disinvestment: Government planning to sell 10% shares from Indian Oil corp.
ASER-2014 report says 50% of class4 students can't do division, only 25% of
class3 students can read class2 book fluently and so on
Government cleared 30 oil-gas discovery files of Cairna India, ONGC etc. This will
fetch over 2.5 trillion cu.ft. gas
SBI interested in aquiring UTI, to create India's largest mutual fund house.
48,000 crores lost in PDS-thefts
FM drafts new accounting standards for business. Mostly technical stuff.
World bank signs pact with Gujarat Government for smart cities.
ESIC has decided to quit Medical education field saying it's not our 'core
function', they'll hand over the medical colleges to respective state
governments. Moral of the story- Insurance-walle ko medical college nahi
kholnaa chaayiye.
global economy will expand by 3% this year
World Trade Organisation's (WTO) Director General, Roberto Azevedo says Bali
Trade Facilitation agreement with help developing countries to integrate into the
world economy. Matter already covered in old article
only deserving cities will be given funding for smart city project- says
U.D.minister
buffer food stock guidelines have not be revised since 2002. Modi plans to sell
away excess wheat in open market to reduce inflation and reduce cost-of-storage
in FCI & fetch ~50,000 crore via sales
Rail minister Suresh Prabhu says Rail-finances are in deep trouble- we are caught
in vicious cycle of low profit= poor services.
Fuel retailers announced price reduction but simultenously Government hiked
excise duty on petrol and diesel, thereby hardly any reduction on customer's
pocket. Government wants to raise ~20k crores with this game
Air India begins 10% cost cutting- it'll help them save ~1400 crore annually
Rajanbhai says if company fails then promoters should absorbe losses.
Otherwise heads capitalism wins, tails system loses.
IITs and IIMs will launch free online courses
Obama planning to close tax-benefits given to trust funds. This will ensure
wealthy Americans don't evade taxes using loopholes. Perhaps India should also
consider something similar on charity bodies.
Rail minister says we need private capital, not privatization
IMF says India will beat China's growth rate in 2016
Government decided to slow down disinvestment process because (1) PSU share
prices declining and (2) trade union strikes.
Government launches "Make in NorthEast" Initiative- with focus on tea-
processing, organic farming, spa-tourism etc.
Government again thinking of using CPSE-ETF (Exchange traded fund)
mechanism to raise another 5000 crores from market. Concept already explained
in old article
Rajanbhai has expressed concern over "foreign investment tourists" in debt
market. Because their "hot money" runs away from India even on a whiff of
speculation, thereby creating volatility in market, and destabilizing rupee
exchange rate.
Rajanbhai reduces repo rate by 0.25%. Matter covered in my latest lecture in
youtube.
Social justice ministry launches Venture capital fund and Green biz.scheme for
SC. (I'll compile and publish all such schemes simultenously within next
Economic survey summary- for better revision)
Government launches "HRIDAY" heritage city development with 100% central
funding; Modi reviews Housing for all 2022. I'll cover them with economic survey
ch. On urban Development.
Economist Jagdish Bhagwati says Modil will relax FDI in multi-brand retail within
a year- but small traders protest against his statement
"ICICIBankPay"- allows ICICI customer transfer money via twitter account, check
balanace, recharge mobile etc. such bankingGK not asked in previous prelims
dates: Budget session to being from 23rd Feb, rail budget on 26, economic
survey on 27, General budget on 28. Topics important but dates are not
Petrol costs higher than ATF because of excise duty hike
EU lifts ban on Indian mangoes- basics already covered in old article

11.50 cr. bank accounts opened in PM-Jan Dhan. Basics already covered in old
article
Modi asks Rajanbhai to see feasibility of introducing 25 rupees note- to
overcome shortage of 5 rupee coins
UPA Government did not release religious data with Census-2011. Now Modi
planning to release it. well, let him release first, then some sort of ascending-
descending order could be asked in MCQ about religious minoirities / state-wise
distribution
until now, India's GDP was calculated with base year 2004-05. Base year
changed to 2011-12. Subsequently 2012'13's GDP growth rate is increased from
~4.7%to ~7%.
CSO to launch new index for retail inflation in Feb 2015
Jaitley says foreign investors are happy irrespective of whether we bring
economic reforms through law or through ordinance. And we are not planning to
increase tax rates soon.
Rajanbhai ordered banks to disclose more information about their loan rates and
service-fees on website by 1st April 2015- to bring more transparency in
business.
Rajanbhai orders banks not to ask "no due certificate" from small borrowers- so
they can take loans in hassle-free manner.
Government to sell 10% stakes in Coal India. Plans to fetch 24,000 crores
Govt wants to develop 99 rivers as water highways- Sutlej-Beas included.
UP govt plans high speed metro rail to connect lucknow to kanpur.
Karnataka farmers given e-Kisaan Tablet designed by Infosys, containing apps for
rainwater harvesting, food processing and sustainable farming practices.
Microfinance/microcredit is no panacea for poverty because Spandan (a
microfinance company) gave Rs.10,000 loans to ~120 SHGs and yet even after 5
years, there is no improvement in their education, healthcare or female
empowerments- says a research study
TRAI issues draft rules for full mobile number portability - throughout India by
updating MNP rules 2009.
under 5/20 rule, only an airline with 5 years xp and 20 aircrafts can get
permission to run international flights from India. Government planning to relax
this norm, plus asking airlines to reserve some of their capacity to Northeast, J&K
etc.
ONGC unconditionally agreed to partner with Cairn India in exploring Rajasthan
oil block.
Earlier IT Department had issued notice to Vodafone for a transfer-pricing-tax-

evasion case. Bombay HC ordered in Vodafone's favor. Government decided not
to purpuse this matter further in HC/SC- to win confidence of foreign investors.
Basics already done in old article - more updates in future lecture.
Disinvestment: after selling 10% shares from coal India, Government gets ~22k
crores. Although for FY16, Government planning to disinvest smaller PSUs only
Government orders compulsory jute packaging of sugar and foodgrains- to
ensure demand for jute bags.
Government approves 74% FDI in HDFC.
Just when USA's quantitative easing and fed tapering topics ceased, European
Union comes up with its own version of Quantitative easing policy, to harass the
UPSC aspirants.
Modi launches 'Beti Bachao-Beti Padhao'
report of Shanta Kumar expert committee on TPDS-FCI reforms
Labour is a concurrent subject hence plethora of wage-laws in India. Government
planning to release a new wage-code to streamline both unorgnized and
organize sector wages.
India not ready for full capital account convertability says RBI dy.gov HR Khan
National Highways and Infrastructure Development Corporation (NHIDCL). In
news because logo and website launched
SEBI relaxes delisting of shares from stock-exchanges

Apple records 18 billion profit. Highest ever in corporate history. BizGK not
important for UPSC
Cabinet decides 3G spectrum base price as Rs.3705 crore

Coal block auction will begin from Feb 2015, likely to fetch 100 billion$ to the
government and hopefully electricity rates will be lowerwed. SC refuses to
intervene, Government refuses to compensate previous owners. Basics already
done in old revision note, let the topic develop further then it deserves update.
Ball by ball commentary not important
earlier ESIC decided to close its medical college and focus on its core-operations
only i.e. insurance service. Indian Medical Association requests PM and President
to stop this, otherwise students and faculties career will be endangered.
Delhi university wants to introduce credit-transfer scheme in new academic
session but HRD ministry sought clarification.
DTH (dish TV etc) want Government to declare their sector as an "infrastructure"

sector- so they can avail loans at concessional rates and get tax benefits.
earlier India banned some US agro-poultry products for fear of Avian influenza
under SPS agreement. WTO panel rejected this move, so now we've appealed
against that decision. Basics done in mains-2013 revision article.
Spectrum auction delayed till march because Government yet to workout pricing
for 2100MhZ band
under SARFAESI act, two types of entities- those bank who follow RBI's definition
for NPA and those who frame their own NPA guidelines. SC says banks free to
decide their NPA definitions in second category
Fiscal deficit overshoots budget target. Let the new budget come.
NSSO data on PDS leakage. Best States Chhattisgarh, Andhra Pradesh and Tamil
Nadu; Most Bogus: Manipur, Diu-Daman, Delhi. Argument in favour of linking PM-
JDY accounts with aadhar and money be directly transferred to them, instead of
supplying over 50MMT grains to 5 lakh raashan-ki-dukaan, because most of the
grains will never reach beneficiary anyways.
Government planning to amend the Archaic Tea Act of 1953- to give more
powers to Tea board of India, encompass small tea growers in the definition and
protect IPR. As such "salient features of Tea Act" seems quite unlikely question
but matter can be used as fodder for Tea-beverages-food-processing industry in
GS3.
Badminton player Jwala Gatta accuses National Coach Gopichand of ignoring
capable players who're not from his "coaching class" such as Ashwini
Ponnappa :P
National Games 2015 at Kerala. Sports topic beaten to death in both Essay and
Mains papers of 2014. Although venue, motto, leading medalists should be
prepared for prelims.
Jet ATF selling at 46/liter- even cheaper than petrol and diesel. Although hardly 5-
10% discount expected in plane-tickets because companies wanting to recover
earlier losses first.
Bhai updates monetary policy: SLR reduced from 22 to 21.5, other rates and
ratios unchanged. However person can invest upto 250,000$ a year under LRS
remittance scheme. What're its implications? Wait for future lecture video on
BoP, exchange rates and capital account convertability.
Shanta Kumar report on FCI restructuring had recommended moving towards

direct cash transfers due to large scale leakages in PDS-foodgrain supply chain.
Now Economists Jean Dreze and his coterie of jholachhap economists are
disputing the survey methods used by this Committee to show PDS leakages.
Mcgrawhill's Standard and Poors rating deliberatly gave good ratings to
mortgage
The backed Commission
14th Finance securities- that ultimately
chairman lead torecommends
Y.V. Reddy asset-bubble42%
and shares
subprime
crisi. Now S&P required to pay over 1 billion dollar damages to US Federal
from union taxes to state governments for 2015 to 2020. But Member Abhijit andSen
state dissenting
gave governments
note- states deserve only 38%. Jaitley likely to table report in
parliament, during budget session.
Modi wants to shutdown UPA's brainchild Urban Institute of India because same
bolbachchangiri work done by the National Institute of Urban Affairs (NIUA)
under Urban Development Ministry.
At present, IT act Sec 80C now allows tax reliefs for upto Rs.1.50 lakh invested in
PPF, NPS, Insurance etc. Rajanbhai says this limit should be increased further. In
recent years, National savings rate reduced from >35% to ~30% of GDP. IF tax
relief increased, juntaa will save more money and through financial
intermediaries it can become credit/capital for faster growth of Indian economy.
Competition Commission of India (CCI) says real-estate players using unfair trade
practicies and oligopoly to extract more money from clients. But CCI did not
impose penalty because evidence lacking.
America's Global Intellectual Property Center (GIPC) released International IP
Index. India was ranked second from the bottom- because (1) India's patent laws
not in sync with intl. laws (2) no specific laws for IPRs in
pharma/biotech/lifesciences. (3) massive piracy both online and offline.
UN-ESCAP says during 2004-11, India had 8% GDP growth rate, it helped
reducing poverty from ~42% to just 33%. Thus India achieved the 1st MDG goal
i.e. reduce poverty by half on 2015. However, India yet to succeed in other
goals- such as universal primary education, Universal youth literacy,
employment and political participation for women, reducing IMR & open
defecation.
Disinvestment: Government wants to sell 10% shares from Indian Oil Corporation
(IOC) . They're looking for a merchant banker to help in the process, but since
Government offering too low rates, most bankers hesitant.
ED gives notice to Sahara for violating Foreign exchange rules

Rockefeller Foundation announced the 100 Resilient Cities project with a $100
million worldwide. Bengaluru, Chennai, Surat chosen.
Sports ministry's Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) for helping Indian
atheletes win medals.
Cisco will develop Vizag as first smart city - skill Development centres with global
talent tracker, civic amnestics through ICT and other fancy things.
Indian companies allowed to raise capital from abroad, using ADR and GDR. If IT
act is amended to provide more clarity on tax-liabilities, it'll be easier to attract
funds through ADR and GDR
Committees: Usha Thorat, Ex-Dy-Gov-RBI for processing small bank applications;

and Nachiket Mor, RBI Board director for processing payment bank applications.
Modi Government planning to launch 5000 crore ETF in March 2015 for faster
disinvestment. Basics explained in previous lecture.
Rajanbhai permits banks to give "differential rates" on fixed deposits e.g. if you
make above 1 crore FD with no option for premature withdrawl= then bank will
pay you higher interest rate, compared to chillar FDs of 10-20,000 made by
oridinary customers. This will help bankers in asset liability management and
give large-value-long-term loans for business projects.
Niti Ayog 's first meeting. Same old bolbachchan about cooperative federalism,
mfg-boost etc. basics already covered in old article
in Coal India disinvestment (Offer for sale / OFS)- 10% shares were reserved for
retail investors but their response was luckwarm. Hence cabinet aims to reduce
their quota to just 5% in future Disinvestments
2009: Indian steel and coal PSUs formed "ICVL- international coal venture ltd". It
aquired mining rights in Mozambique- will help fetch over 10 million tonnes of
coal in next 3 years
Nawaz Sheikh- son of a daily wage labourer, designs logo for India's new
education policy
After Modi-Obama meet on nuke deal, PMO sets target of doubling n-power in
India by 3x times in next 10 years
Government planning to levy cess on Airfares- to finance the expansion of
Aviation sector in NorthEast. + to counter China, India plans 6 airports in
Arunanchal Pradesh.
Government of Gujarat introduces common syllabus for 11 State universities - to
ensure uniformity in teaching and skill Development.
gold import- India world's largest consumer in 2014, imported over 850 tonnes,
even ahead of China.
Kerala's Vizhinjam International Multipurpose Seaport project wasn't kicking up

due to lack of funds, but now union Government promised to pay ~4,000 crores.
Impact investingmeans investing in projects that makes profit and
simultaneously achieves specific social and environmental causes. Impact
investing can help people invest private money in social initiatives, but both
investors and the NGOs need to be trained first.
To extract coal from Odisha, CIL's subsidiary Mahanadi Coalfields Ltd. (MCL) will
create to new SPV-entities.
In battery cages, each hen is confined in a size less than A4 sized paper and
made to produce eggs like a machine. This type of animal cruelty is banned in
Europe, therefore companies like "big Dutchman" selling their equipment to
Indian paltry companies. Allahabad highcourt has sent notice to All stakeholders
for The violation of Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act, 1960. Exam relevance:
Mains GS3 Upstream issues in the food processing industry.
Union government has decided to infuse ~7000 crore Rs. equity capital in nine
public sector banks, According to their performance. State bank of India will get
the highest.
Japan is the most indebted country in the world, at 400 per cent of GDP. High
debt, whether public or private, makes economies more vulnerable to economic
shocks and tends to fuel booms and bust cycles
Indian Express & International Consortium of Investigative Journalists, released
the names of ~1200 Indians having accounts in HSBCs Swiss bank worth total
25,000+crore rupees. Finance Minister says we'll "investigate". Attorney General
Mukul Rohatgi assures SC that Government will make new legal provisions during
budget session
Recently, Modi held first meeting of NITI Ayog- usual bol-bachchan about
cooperative federalism etc. already covered in old article. CM Mamata Banerjee
remains absent saying planning commission was brain child of Subhas Chandra
Bose, and Modi has insulted him by abolishing Planning commission.
At present a builder has to get 3050 approval from union and state
governments- hence avg. 90-600 days wasted in getting files cleared. In hill
states, majority of the land falls under forest area, so very difficult to get
environment clearance. Union Government wants to cut down these red tapes to
promote smart cities.
Power minister Piyush Goel says India will be a power surplus country in the year
2019, because we will take following measures (1) Reviving the gas based and
coal based power plants (2) Ensure continuous supply of coal at cheap prices (3)
encouraged the use of LED lights
Peter Pan is a fictional character that never grows up. Researchers pointed out
that Indian retailers are suffering from Peter Pan syndrome (i.e. Never grew up,
Never accept New technologies)- because of the high level of corruption.
Under The Coinage Act 2011, RBI can issue all notes except Rs.1 note. Union
Government planning to print new Rs.1 notes with Hindi & English signatures of
new finance Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi. Although Bankers feels this is mere
publicity stunt, because as such cost of printing Rs.1 note is more than the 'face-
value' of Rs.1 note.
Supreme Court criticises RBI,Sebi and other financial regulators for turning blind
eye to chit-funds-cum-ponzi scams running in West Bengal, Odisha, Assam,
Tripura and neighbouring States.
Because of Government and RBI restriction of on Gold, its import decliend by
14% in 2014, says World Gold Council (WGC) report.
Under Digital India initiative, Modi wants to setup BPO-call centres mofussil
towns.
Central Statistics Office (CSO) launches new series of Consumer Price Index (CPI)
with 2012 as base year. First data will cover January 2015 month and will be
released in Feb 2015.
ICICI Bank launched India's first digital bank called "Pockets"- it is a moble app
cum e-wallet. Even a non-ICICI Client can clean up this electronic wallet from
money from any other bank. This wallet uses a virtual Visa card to help you
transfer money to any email id, mobile number, Facebook account, online
shopping site, retail mall, Paying utility bills etc. Transaction limit: Rs.10,000, if
you're not an ICICI client. You can even add a zero balance saving account and
earn interest on your deposit. Thus, Pockets integrates a digital wallet, a
physical prepaid card and a basic savings bank account- all features of an
upcoming payment bank.
2014: Tea exports declined in value and volume because (1) India's rivals Kenya
and Sri Lanka have increased tea production (2) because of adverse weather,
India's tea production was lower than usual. Russia single largest importer, and
CIS countries ~25%
Currency Building, Kolkata was built in 1833. It was the first office of the Reserve
Bank of India.
Dredging Corporation of India will begin dredging Adani Vizag coal port- to help
Panamax vessels with upto 1 lakh tonne cargo to enter inner harbour.
Central Statistics Office (CSO) had changed the GDP base year from 2004 to
2011. Accordingly India's latest growth projection is 7.4% and we'll become a
$2.1-trillion economy.
Government's proposed Amendments to BIS act. 1986: more products will need
ISI certificate. Misuse of ISI will become a cognizable offence. Both distributor
and retailer can be held liable. Product liability, product recall and compensation
to consumers.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojanaguidelines revised. First priority will be given
to villages under Saansad Adarsh Gram Yojana (SAGY). State governments will be
required to maintain those roads, even beyond the default 5-year period.
Modi asks state governments to create 2 taskforces under Niti Ayog - 1 for
poverty removal and 1 for agriculture
Government asked rich-PSUs to issue bonus debentures to their respective
ministries- this cash inflow will help Government meet the fiscal deficit targets
under FRBM
SAIL and NMDC to form a joint-venture company to setup a 6MT Greenfield
steelplant in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh
Earlier Government had setup TK Viswanathan Committee to frame bankruptcy
law. Committee recomends amending the Companies Act 2013, to get insolvet
companies windup their business quickly- it'll help us improving our Ease of
doing business ranking.
Modi's Make in India campaign faces two dilemmas (1) cheap money policy
required to boost expansion of factories but (2) cheap money policy will also
weaken Indian rupee against dollar- thereby making the exports unattractive.
Crooks are increasingly using shell companies for tax evasion, money laundering
and even bidding lucrative coal mines with good rail-road connectivity so they
can be resold to genuine companies at a higher price (similar to 2G scam).
therefore, SEBI began an exercise to find and suspend such shell companies.
Most of the FIIs have parked their money in coal India disinvestment and buying
shares of HDFC. Hence not much liquidity left in the market, therefore
government of India has decided to postpone the 5% disinvestment of ONGC,
because it is unlikely to attract those FIIs and fetch good prices for the ONGC
shares.
PFRDA chairman has requested government to give same tax benefits to new
pension scheme subscribers like those available to EPF subscribers. Only then
people will be interested to invest in NPS.
Guj. Government to implement Food security act in following format- (1) BPL/APL
will be phased out (2) New beneficiaries to be identifed from Socio-Economic
Caste Census 2011 such that 66% juntaa is covered.
Communication minister says the white revolution of the dairy industry should
be replicated in the information technology arena, only then we can transform
the lives of rural people. Target 2020: 11,500 start-up companies to provide jobs
to 2.5 lakh people.
Britain's early industrialisation distanced farming from business and technology.
Latest data reveals per hectre productivity of the British farms is far less then
other European countries.
Government is planning the privatisation of airports of Jaipur, A'bad, Kolkata,
Chennai. GMR, GVR, Adani and others are interested.
G20 members' summit at Istambul: India demands (1) IMF quota reforms (2)
Automatic exchange of tax information.
Companies who do not pay any taxes by using various tax exemptions, they are
required to pay a minimum alternate tax of 20%. New budget is likely to cover
foreign portfolio investors more stringently and clearly under the MAT regime.
Let the budget come first
Until now public sector banks focused on building cadres of officers hoping
they'll continue with them till retirement. But since flow of foreign investment
has increased- banks should be ready to face attrition i.e. officers leaving to
other financial organizations for better packages, says RBI dy.gov. R.Gandhi.
Rajanbhai criticizes the lack of specialist in Government- who can properly make
budget or manage public debt.
Previous Justice BN Sri-Krishna's Financial Sector Legislative Reforms Commission

(FSLRC) panel had recommended one "Indian financial code" IFC in place of all
other laws, and revamping the financial regulatory bodies in India with one
"Financial sector appellate tribunal" (FSAT) at top. Rajanbhai has now criticized
this move saying from license raj, we'll be put into "Appellate Raj". Rajanbhai
also indirectly criticized Modi's style of functioning: Hitler provided Germany
with an extremely effective administration the trains ran on time, as did the
trains during our own Emergency in 1975-77. His was a strong government, but
Hitler took Germany efficiently and determinedly on a path to ruin, overriding
the rule of law and dispensing with elections. So, It is not sufficient that the
trains run on time, they have to go in the right direction at the desired time.
Means, strong governments might not always move in the right direction."
New Indian Accounting norms (Ind AS) aims to align Indian accounting practices
with international IFRS code. From 1/4/2015, companies need to voluntarily
begin implementing this. From 1/4/2016, this is mandatory for companies with
500 crore or more networth. Says Corporate Affairs ministry.
Corporate espionage- smuggling of key-policy documents from the Oil Ministry,
to benefit corporate giants ahead of budget.
Greece Crisis and Euro bailout packaged. Basics already covered in last lecture.
More when ball by ball commentary ends.
In recent time, potato supply increased and prices declined. So, Government
removed it from "minimum export price" (MEP) regime to help farmers sell off in
foreign market.
RBI relaxes gold norms- banks can import gold on consignment basis. Banks can
grant gold metal loans on such imported gold. This will help jewelry industry.
Brown money is the value of unused goods lying at peoples homes. Thanks to
sites like olx and quikr, brown money trading has increased.
Rajanbhai had criticized Central Statistics Office (CSO) for confusing calculation
of GDP. Hence CSO DG met bhai and "powerpointed" him to the GDP calculation
method.
Noted industrialist Deepak Parekh says businessman are impatient because
despite 9 months of Modi-raj, the "ease of doing business" has not improved on
the ground
Under EPFO act, Government of India has to appoint Employees Provident Fund
Appellate Tribunal (EPFAT). But officials not appointed since a long time, SC gave
4 weeks to Government to fix this problem.
Modi unlikely to implement Shanta Kumar panel to revamp FCI-PDS system &
reduce the coverage of NFSA, after defeat in Delhi elections. Basics already done
in old article.
Swiss authorities raid HSBC's offices to probe money laundering. HSBC allegedly
helped crooks from 200 countries to stash ~120 billion USD. While HSBC issues
full page apology in British newspaper- We have absolutely no appetite to do
business with clients who are evading their taxes
Finance Ministry re-launched its website for filing FDI applications. New website
needs submission of single document instead of 15-18 copies earlier- part of the
'ease of doing business' and make in india'.
Maharastra Government aims to make Mumbai the first city in the country to be
open all day and night 24x7. The city will be divided into 'special
entertainment zones' with adequete food, security and safety features. This will
boost trade-tourism but critiques say it'll hurt physical wellbeing of the youth
and poor workers.
WPI only 0.39% in January 2015
Government aims to auction 2g and 3g radiowaves for Rs.1 lakh crores in March
2015. Ambanis, Airtel, Vodafone, Idea- total 8 telecom giants interested.
Gujarat: Diamond Research and Mercantile (DREAM) City planned near, Surat, to
boost diamond cutting and polishing industry. similarlarly GIFT (Gujarat
International Finance Tec-City) and Dholera special investment region
If we compare countries on Purchasing Power Parity (PPP) then India is not very
bad. India ranks second in highest number of mobile towers, motorcycle
manufacturing, rice and so on. But still Indias ranking in the UNDPs Human
Development Report (2011) is 134. Some critics say during such "Human
development rankings", India should be given two ranks- one for entire country
and separate rankings for each of its states. Because many of our states are
bigger both area and population -wise compared to many African and European
countries.
Hike in petrol and diesel prices announced.

Urban Housing Ministry has found that state governments have not spent crores
of rupees given to them under Rajiv Rinn Yojana, Rajiv Awas Yojana, National
Urban Livelihood Mission (NULM) etc. now the ministry wants to divert that
unused amount to Metro rail projects in major cities.
Gujarat Government to develop "smart schools" with wifi, school Management
software, LCD in every class, biometric attendence etc.
Central statistical Organisation (CSO) Publishes annual survey of industries (ASI)
each year. Now they are planning: similar annual survey of services. For better
estimation of job creation, GDP production etc.
SBI composite index Tracks India's manufacturing activity using SBI's internal
loan portfolio- because it mirrors the loan demand by the manufacturing units.
Accordingly, this index has two components (1)Manufacturing cycle (monthly)
(2)growth (yearly). For Feb-2015, this index shows manufacturing activity has
declined in India.
Andhra govt. reviving the 'letter of permit' vessels for deep sea tuna fishing.
Local fishermen concerned because foreign vessels will enter after getting
permits under Benami local Indian and takeaway the "shishami tuna fishes" from
Indian waters.
As per Water Sanitation Hygiene programme for school (WASH)- 1 toilet per 80
boys and 1 toilet for 40 girls required but not even 30% of Rajasthan schools
meet the norms for girl toilets. Rajasthan HC ordered the state government not
to grant permission to any new school/colleges if they don't meet such norms.
2007: agricultural policy was framed based on recommendations of the M.S.

Swaminathan Commission. But a PIL filed in Supreme Court alleges that
government has done nothing to implement it. Government counters saying
we've done more than enough to make India and its farmers self-sufficient in
food production- even though India accounts for only 2.4 per cent of the worlds
geographical area and 4 per cent of its water resources, we support 17% of
world population and 15% livestock.
The Odisha Government has decided to scrap joint venture agreements with the
mining giants Rio Tinto, Vedanta, Sesa Sterlite and Hindalco. This goes against
"ease of doing business" because those firms already invested capital in setting
up plants.
RBI says Rs.5000 overdraft facility awarded to Pradhan Mantri JanDhan Yojana
(PMJDY) bank accounts will be counted under given Bank's Priority sector lending
(PSL) quota, under "Weaker section / others" category. But condition is that
borrower's household annual income should not be more than 60k in rural areas
and 1.2lkh in urban areas. Overdraft facility is 'unlocked' in your account after
having satisfactory operation for 6 months.
Government declares budget day as "non-business" day for mutual funds. This is
to forbid Investors from buying/redeeming their mutual fund units on Feb 28, to
prevent any windfall gain. Although trading permitted in ETFs.
Trai to implement all India mobile number portability from May 3. Until now it
was confined only to user's own telcom circle.
2014- 6th BRICS summit at Fortaleza, Brazil - chalked out the plans for setting up
BRICS Bank/ New Development Bank (NDB) and its 100 Billion Contingent
Reserve Arrangement (CRA), to help member countries for Development loans
and balance of payment crisis. Modi Cabinet now formally approves necessary
paper agreements.
Unease of doing business: Coca cola exits from Modi's Varanasi Constituency
after Central Ground Water Authority (CGWA) delays giving clearance.
Arjun Award selection revamped. Now a Committee headed by retired SC/HC
judge with noted persons associated with sports will decide the names. Only 1
sportsperson from any given field- to avoid bias towards that field's nominees.
More weightage to individual sports over team sports. Meeting proceedings to be
video graphed.
Indian Banks Association (IBA) final deal worked out to stop Bank-strikes. (1)
15% salary increase from Nov.2012. (2) 2nd and 4th Saturdays will be holidays
while remaining Saturdays will have full working days.
TRAI planning to reduce interconnection charge- that one operator pays to the
other for using their network. Same way TRAI planning to reduce tariffs for
national roaming services first time after 2013. Likely to reduce call and SMS
charges by 35-80 percent respectively.
EU approves 4 months extension to Greece bailout package. Basics already done
in ppt/video.
University professor retirement age 65 but CSIR scientist retirement age is 60. so
Modi planning to raise scientists' retirement age.
finmin invites applications for MD-CEO posts at PNB, BoB, IDBI, BoI and Canara.
even private bankers eligible to apply. First time "Flexypay" package offered.
Term limit: 3 years duration or 60 years age
AirIndia begins restructuring based on Dharmadhikari report. Revised payscales
from March1 to achieve pay parity between AirIndia and merged Indian Airlines
workers.
IRDA Chief TS Vijayan permits GIC to setup 1500 crore nuclear liability pool to
cover any damages from nuclear reactor accidents. As such Indo-US nuke deal
part of diplomacy but such minor facts for banking-fin. GK
Under Smart city initiative, Delhi Muni. Will put smart signage on historic
monuments. Just scan their QR code in mobile and you get all information on
smartphone.
RBI and Finmin sign agreement to implement recommendations of Urjit Patel

Committee on monetary policy reforms. (1) inflation targeting at CPI 2-6% i.e.
@4% with band of 2%. Must get inflation below 6% by Jan 2016. (2) failure if
inflation above 6% during 3 consecutive quarters of 2015 OR if inflation below
2% in 3 consecutive quarters of 2016. (3) RBI will have to explain Government in
such case. if factors beyond RBI's control, then it can raise monetary policy rates
to combat inflation. (4) Monetary policy to be decided by a Monetary Policy
Committee (4) among 3 functions of controlling- inflation, foreign exchange rate
and interest rate, RBI will give first priority to inflation.
RBI says loans to sanitation, health care and drinking water facilities, renewable
energy and incremental loans to exporters, will come under Priority sector
lending. Plus RBI panel recommends both foreign banks above and below 20
branches, should have same PSL targets i.e. 40%.
Gold refiner MMTCPAMP preparing a gold metal account scheme with help of
Switzerlands PAMP. Customer can deposit minimum 50 gms gold. He'll earn
'gold' interest instead of rupee interest over the time. This gold will be loaned to
jewelers.
Rajanbhai is distressed over the fact that post-Global financial crisis, the central
banks around the world are printing money and reducing interest rates to very
low levels. But since RBI has to combat inflation, we cannot follow that path of
reducing interest rates. This has led to avalanche of capital inflows in India,
and may create foreign exchange rate instability.
Spectrum auction ball by ball. Only final outcome and its consequences
important
As such Rajanbhai releases "Bi-Monthly" policy review. But in 2015, twice he

made surprise changes in repo rate. January 2015: repo reduced from 8% to
7.75%. And now again in March 2015 he reduce it further from 7.75 to 7.50. (25
basis point.) Lower repo rate means cheaper loans, more demand and business
expansion. This is done because Rajanbhai perceives Jaitley budget as "non-
inflationary" due to concise tax breaks and subsidies. So he has reduce policy
rate (=repo rate) to show that fiscal and monetary policy will work in a
complementary way.
Union Government set up a taskforce for the development of Ajmer, Allahabad
and Visakhapatnam as smart cities.
Under coinage act 2011, Government of India will restart printing 1 rupee note,
with bilingual signature of the finance Secretary. RBI will put these 1 Rs. Note
into circulation. Note will bear Ashoka Pillar symbol in the window without words
Satyamev Jayate, and carry a hidden numeral in the centre.
RBI expands LTV definition. Now Loan to Value ratio for housing sector, will also
include stamp duty, registration fees and other document charges. This will help
get bigger housing loans, but upto 10 lakh rupees.
At present money markets are controlled by the RBI. But mutual funds also play
a significant role in money market, and are regulated by SEBI. Earlier Bimal Jalan
and FSLRC reports recommended that RBI should not be managing Government
debt (through G-Sec, T-Bills). It should be done by An autonomous public debt
management authority/agency, will sell such a government securities to financial
intermediaries on voluntary basis. To implement this reform, Budget-2015's
Finance Bill will amendment sections 45U and 45W. After this, RBI will cease to
regulate government bonds and other money market instruments. Then perhaps
Public debt management agency (PDMA) will be made setup and made
responsible for handling G-Sec, T-bill. And RBI will focus only on the core
functions of central bank i.e. (1) controlling inflation (2) banking supervision (3)
controlling foreign exchange rate volatility.
1997: Chindu had Introduced the concept of three slabs of income tax i.e. 10%,
20%, 30%. Chindu says post-liberalization that has been rise In number of super
wealthy people in India.
Employee Provident Fund (EPF) and PPF schemes enjoy this status. EEE status
(exempt-exempt-exempt) i.e. (1) money deposited in the scheme (2) interest
earned in the scheme (3) money withdrawn from the scheme after maturity. At
all three stages, it is exempted from income tax calculation. In budget 2015,
while greatly increase the exemption limit in new pension scheme (NPS) from 1
lakh to 1.5 lakh, but still it does not enjoy EEE status. Presently, NPS has over 80
lakh subscribers, but given this EEE-anomaly, it will be difficult expand the base
further.
GIFT city, Gandhinagar, Gujarat International Financial Services Centre (IFSC). It'll
be treated as an SEZ, and entities inside it, will be treated as non-resident
Indians located outside India. RBI-FEMA will permit setting up foreign banks here.
Foreign banks in India can setup. Indian banks with offshore presence, can setup.
Each bank can setup only one IBU though. But they can't accept with retail
customers or in Indian currency. Minimum capital requirement 20 million. CRR-
SLR applicable: Nope. RBI won't help via repo rate and other liquidity measures.
PSL norms won't apply. Similarly, IRDA will permit foreign insurers and reinsurers.
SEBI will permit stock exchanges, merchant bankers, depository receipts (DR).
NSSO-2013: more than 5.5 crore MSME in India, mostly owned by SC, ST, OBC
yet only 4% of them get institutional finance. Budget-2015 announced Micro
Units Development Refinance Agency (MUDRA) Bank to give them last mile
credit delivery. It'll first begin as a subsidiary of SIDBI and later converted to a
full fledged bank through an act of parliament. If banks fails to meet priority
sector lending norms, they've to deposit money in NABARD's RIDF or SIDBI's
SEDF. RBI will pull out Rs.20,000 crores from such priority lending shortfall funds,
and give it to Mudra.
Atal Pension Yojana Is for "citizens" in unorganized sector, who joined NPS but
not any other social security scheme. Atal will give pension from 1000 to 5000
per month at 60 years age, depending on how much money subscriber
contributed. Membership age limit 18 to 40 years. Union will contribute 50% of
money given by subscriber or Rs.1000, whichever is less for first 5 years upto
2019-20.
Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana. Membership age: 18 to 50 with a bank
account. Pay Rs.330 per year premium. Get 2 lakh accident cover from LIC.
Various ministries can co-contribute premium for their respective beneficiaries.
Common Publicity Expenditure will be borne by Government.
Minority affairs Ministry had setup Professor Amitabh Kundu (JNU) To assess the
impact of minority welfare measures taken after Sachar committee report and
Prime Minister's 15 program for minorities. Amitabha gave report in late-2014.
observation: (1) Financial and physical targets are meagre compared to the
ground level requirement. (2) Need to increase the budgetary allocation to
minority affairs Ministry (3) Minority-scholarships should be made "Demand
driven" (4) Separate leadership development scheme for minority women.
Over 5 lakh abandoned children use railway station for living, begging and
laboring. Women ministry, Railway Ministry and NGOs have joined hands For
rehabilitation of these kids. Toll free helpline 1098. Public awareness campaign.
Ultimately Authorities will try to get this children back to their parents or provide
them education and vocational skills.
For development in Naxal areas, Government working on two pronged strategy

(A) physical infra: NITI ayog to announce additional central Assistance (ACA),
Highway ministry to focus on Road Requirement Plan (RRP-I) and communication
ministry to use Universal Service Obligation Fund (USOF) for increasing mobile
penetration. Strategy (B) Human resource infra: Under Pandit Deen Dayal
Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana, a subcomponent "Roshni". Roshni will
setup 1 ITI and 2 skill development centres in each of the 34 Naxal affected
districts in 9 states. They'll provide short term & long term skill training to
youth, so they can get livelihood & don't get brainwashed by naxals.
Shell companies are the companies located abroad but controlled from India, to
evade taxes. Government aims to curb them by introducing "Place of effective
management" (POEM) in IT Act. thereby, such offshore companies will be taxable
in India, if key Management decisions are taken from India.
Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 mandates that no children should be failed till
class5. But this has led to declined level of leaning, as seen in ASER report.
Therefore, Delhi Dy.CM cum Education minister Manish Sisodia requested union
HRD ministry to reduce this provision till class 3 only.
Delhi, Kerala and Tamil Nadu are Indias best ranked States in terms of gender-
related education indicators, says HRD and UNISEF report.
CSO new GDP calculation method says India grew @7.4% in 2014. Projects 8.1-
8.5% growth rate for 2015. But IMF report says, hardly 7.5% possible for 2015.
LIC will give 1.5 lakh crore in next five years for railway projects.
As per RBI norms, Following citizens are forbidden from acquiring property in
India: Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Afghanistan, China, Iran, Nepal or Bhutan.
2 more regions added in this blacklist: Hong Kong and Macau- both administered
by China.
Income tax Department demands 20,500 crores from Cairn India for share
transaction to parent company and subsequent capital gains. Cairn planning for
international arbitration under India-UK bilateral investment protection treaty.
Earlier Vodafone (Netherlands) and Nokia (finland) also called for arbitration
under similar treaties with their nations- thus proving MNCs don't have much
faith in Indian system.
SBI begins online auction of seized properties worth 1200 crore rupees.
Insurance bill passed to increase FDI limit from 26% to 49%. Congress abstains
in Lok Sabha and votes in favor in Rajyasabha. Cheaper premium will improve
insurance penetration, and make junta's savings flow to long term infrastructure
projects.
Dr. B. Meenakumari Committee gives report for deep-sea fishing Policy and
Guidelines to Agriculture ministry.
Railway wants to setup two factories in Bihar (1) electric locomotive
@Madhepura and (2) diesel locomotive @Marhora. For this, joint venture and FDI
proposal invited from GE, Siemens and other giants.
Economist Jim O'Neil had given the term BRICS . Now he says India poised to
become world's 7th largest economy in 2017, and 5rd largest economy in 2020.
1983: Double taxation avoidance agreement signed between India-Mauritius.

Under this agreement, if a company registered in Mauritius sells assets from
India, then India can't levy capital gains tax. only Mauritius can levy CGT, but
they have 0% CGT. So Indian businessman misuse this provision for round
tripping i.e. investing their own money in India, but via Mauritius route to reduce
tax liability. During his Mauritius trip, Modi said he'll work to stop this abuse.
SC says Aadhar card is not mandatory to get govt. subsidies. If any official insists
for this card, he'll have to face consequences.
IMF chief says (1) India will have 7.5% growth rate for 2015-16. (and not above
8%, as Economic Survey and Budget). (2) India to be world's largest economy by
2030, but must focus on inclusive-growth, more women laborer participation. (3)
Jan Dhan financial inclusion is unparallel in the world. (4) it was a mistake to
ignore Rajanbhai's prediction about subprime crisis.
Hindu newspaper's boss "Kasturi and Sons limited" began offering VRS to
employees for the first times. Moral of the story: if one wants to run a newspaper
through subscription from only UPSC aspirants and ad revenue from only Delhi's
coaching wallas, then he'll have to cutdown costs sooner or later!
Often MNCs transfer assets from one subsidiary company to another at below-
market prices, to reduce profit and tax liability. This has led to rise in number of
transfer-pricing cases. Finally to put an end, Budget 2014 came up with provision
of Advance pricing agreement between companies and Income tax department.
Govt. permitted it for previous four years. This will help reducing number of
litigations and promote ease of doing biz.
Post Subprime crisis till Quantitative Easing (QE) years, American dollars flew to
emerging econies. India received above 450 billion$. US Feds planning to raise
rates by end of 2015. IMF fears, this will lead to flight of foreign invested capital
from India back to USA. Although Rajanbhai says he is fully prepared, and Janet
Yellen should think twice before playing with aag(fire), Paani (water) and
Rajanbhai.
Black money Bill approved in cabinet. (1) 10 years jail +300% tax for stashing
black money abroad. (2) must declare foreign assets in IT return else 7 years jail;
additionally separate Benami Transactions (Prohibition) Bill to stop black money
in domestic assets; IT act to be amended to prohibit of more than Rs.20k in cash;
April 1: Banks will be closed for accounting purpose and 2nd and 3rd April are
public holidays under negotiable instruments Act, so total 3 continuous holidays
and unless RBI intervenes, it'll be great inconvenience to customers.
Railway platform ticket to be raise from Rs.5 to Rs.10.

NSSO says Indian families food, Expenditure and work habit differs by the caste.
SC/SC Spend larger portion of their income in food expenditure compared to
OBC. SCs Mostly engaged in rural labour or urban-wage jobs, while OBCs mostly
Self-employed or salaried jobs.
Union has permitted total 14 ports to handle import of high-end cars/vehicles.
Latest additions (1) Pipavav, Gujarat (2) L&T, Chennai.
Black money Bill tabled in Lok Sabha. Officially its called "Undisclosed Foreign
Income and Assets (Imposition of Tax) Bill, 2015". To be effective from 1/4/2016.
Salient features (1) stashing black money abroad = 3-10 years jail time, and
penalty of 3 times the tax evaded or 90% of the undisclosed income. (2) 30%
Tax on all foreign income. No exemption, or deduction. (3) Onus on the suspect
to prove he's not guilty. (4) if voluntary disclosure of blacck money hidden
abroad then lenient punishment i.e. 30% tax + 100% penalty. (5) if foreign
income/asset not disclosed in IT return then 10 lakh penalty, even if black money
is not hidden in it. (6) Tax officials given more powers of investigation. Appeal
structure: ITAT < HC < SC. (7) Union to sign agreements with other nations for
automated exchange of tax information, DTAA etc.
PMO asks Air India to submit detailed report about its losses, profitability and
revival plan.
In Bihar, Friends, relatives and Nakal-Mafias become Spiderman to climb school
buildings to help students cheat in board exams. (1) education minister says
state alone can't curb it. Patna HC unhappy (2) Social angle- passing
Matriculation exam necessary for girls issue, therefore relatives/villagers even
riot against exam squads. (3) If vigilance tightened then only 12% will pass
board exam, like it did in 1996 (4) better opt for open book system exam.
Rail budget 2015 announced "Kayakulp" council to transform Indian railways.
Ratan Tata will head this body, it'll have representatives from rail trade unions as
well.
New scheme for Agro industry innovation -Entreprenuership. Who? MSME
ministry. Features: [+] 500 new incubation centres. Direct level accelerator
Program. [+] help startup companies with help of SIDBI. Finance startup
companies through Equity, Quasi-Equity, Angel fund, Venture capital fund etc.
[+] remaining features mostly bol-bachchan type. OLF because scheme doesn't
have a fancy name or abbriviation.
FinMin launches beta version of national e-database on IT ligitation, nicknamed
"National Judicial reference system-NJRS". It'll help in quicker disposal of cases at
IT appellate boards, HC and SCs. Right now cases worth Rs. 3.5 lakh crores tied
up in tax- litigation.
At present RBI governor alone responsible for making monetary policy but both
Urjit patel Committee and budget 2015 wanted a Committee system with
majority voting- for deciding monetary policy of India. But (A) Rajanbhai wants 5
member body with 2 outsider experts but no Government representatives.(B)
but Finmin Jaitley wants 8 member Committee with Government nominees
without voting power. Although officially Jaitley denies having any rift with
Rajanbhai. Ignored because basics of urjit patel already covered in old article and
no official announcement made about composition of Monetary policy
Committee
Top Fake currencies in Switzerland: (1) Euro (2) Dollar (3) Indian Rupee.
Railways launches RuPay pre-paid debit card. Partners: Union Bank of India and
the National Payment Corporation of India. Utility: Buy tickets, do shopping, pay
for IRCTC services. 1lakh accident insurance coverage. Card limits (1) 10k if
partial KYC (2) 50k if full KYC Documents provided. For the first 6 months, no
transaction charges. Subsequently Rs.10 service charge per transaction.
GST [+] Union Urban Development Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu suggests that
GST revenue should be shared with municipalities so they can Improve
infrastructure. [+] Kerala's Finance Minister K.M. Mani will head Empowered
Committee of State Finance Ministers on GST. [+] Government will try to pass
GST bill in second part of Budget session starting from April 20th. Ignored
because basics already covered in powerpoint and video. More details only after
Bill is passed
NDDB chief says India can't follow Chinese daily model because we've to focus
on poverty alleviation, employment generation and sustainable development.
Although we are largest producer of milk in the world, our challenges are
regional imbalance, shortage of fodder
Insurance Companies began raising FDI after parliament bill is passed. SBI
general insurance's partners SBI:IAG will be turn from 74:26 to 51:49. IAG
Australian company. Same way, Max Bupa. Bupa Is British company. Ignored
because such bizGK not usually seen in UPSC
Delhi hosts Urja Sangam 2015, a global energy summit. Here, Modi asks rich
people to voluntarily give up LPG subsidy, thereby reducing Government subsidy
bill by 100 crore rupees.
NITI Ayog forms a working group on "how to make Centrally sponsored schemes
(CSS) more effective and their implementation by the States more fiexible." NITI
Aayog chief executive officer Sindhushree Khullar will be the chief of this group.
14th Finance commission (YV Reddy) gave 42% verticle tax devolution to states.
So, obviously Union will cut down the allocation of CSS, hoping that states will
bear more burden from their own share. This subgroup will give
recommendations for smooth transition into that next gameplan. Union already
thinking of cutting down contribution to centrally sponsored schemes from 75%
to 50%. They'll give 100% contribution to selected schemes only.
RBI asks NBFCs to get credit rating done before March 2016. only the NBFCs with
credit rating of "investment grade", will be allowed to accept fresh deposits from
junta.
In budget 2014, the Finance Minister has announced the setting up of a price
stabilisation fund (PSF) To combat food inflation. Finally fund is setup with Rs.
500 crore. This money will loaned to state and central agencies as "working
capital" or for buying perishable agri-horticultural commodities from farmers and
sell at cheaper price to customers. At present PSF will only focus on Onion and
potatoes.) If any losses occurred, Cost will be shared by union and state.
Additionally, states will set up their own revolving fund, where Union : states
contribution will be in the ratio of 50:50 for general states and 75:25 for north-
eastern states.
Ola taxi-app comes up with special reward scheme for drivers such as [+] easy
loans to buy new cars using SBI 's "Ola-Pragati" offer with just 10% down
payment and quick-loan processing. [+] skill training, fuel discount, free car
services [+] 2 lakh medical-health insurance for driver and family using ICICI
prudential. This will help promoting Micro-entrepreneurship among the drivers.
Government doing a feasibility study to Construct an advanced for military and
civilian purpose in Tawang, Arunanchal Pradesh. Because in 62's war, China's
forces entered India through this route, so air-connectivity is very crucial,
Otherwise by road it takes 16 hours to reach Tawang from Guwahati
Natural Gas (CH3) => Ammonia (NH3)=> Urea. Therefore, price and supply of
Natural gas affects urea production. Department of fertilizer comes up with
following proposal: GAIL will arrange pool of natural gas and supply them to all
fertilizer companies at price = Average of (desi + imported gas). Benefit:
companies get gas at reasonable price, can produce more urea domestically so,
Government subsidy bill on imported urea will decline. {---Another move---} The
government is planning to set up at least ten new urea plants in coal rich States
of Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh et al.
China also using technology to produce urea from coal, we also need to explore,
to become self-reliance and reduce subsidy bill. Another solution: converting
APMC mandi waste into manure.
SEBI planning separate platform to help startup companies get capital. Name of
this platform = Alternate Capital Raising Platform. Which investors can
participate here? High net worth individuals (HNIs), qualified institutional buyers
(QIB), Family trusts, NBFCs and other entities with 500 crore net worth. Who
can't participate here? Retail investors, because too much risk involved. Benefit:
IT/E-Commerce companies won't have to approach foreign countries for capital.
Given the rising NPA problem, RBI mandates the banks to keep side emergency
fund called "Counter cyclical capital buffer". Recently RBI relaxed its norms to
help banks.
~12,000 NBFCs are registered with RBI, most of them involved in loaning, and
some even accept deposits. Now to prevent menace of shadow banking, RBI has
updated takeover norms for NBFCs.
Yoga visa: a student visa for person coming to India to learn Yoga
2009: Department of telecommunication had banned prepaid mobile SIMS in J&K
and North East for security reasons. Although later the ban was lifted, but
stringent conditions were placed on such cards. Then Ministry set up Committee
under Home Secretary LC Goyal, and extended pre-paid cars for this regions for
another 2 years.
Government aims to borrow 6 lakh crore from market by issuing G-Sec and T-
bills. 60% of them will be issued in April-September 2015 period. They even plan
to issue G-Sec with 40 years maturity period! RBI not happy with this, saying if
so much money pulled out of market by Government, then corporate
bonds/debentures will not find much investors. Same reason, if the proposed
Public debt Management agency is made to borrow arbitrarily from market
depending on whims and fancies of Government, it'll hurt Indian economy in
long run. As such FRBM Act requires Government to curb fiscal deficit to 3% of
GDP, but then if CSO doctors report to raise GDP number (as Rajanbhai and
Economic survey alleges), then entire system will collapse, similar to sovereign
debt crisis in Greece.
Parliament passes Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation)
Amendment Bill, 2015 and the Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Bill, 2015. Benefits
[+] Government monopoly ended over coal extraction. [+] Foreign investment
permitted.
Railways misc. [+] To check menace of touts, railway upgrade its online ticket
booking system. Now once your buy a ticket, you'll be logged out automatically
and will have to fill in your details again to buy next ticket. [+] An express train
started to connect two important Takhts of the Sikh Panth Sri Anandpur Sahib
and Amritsar
GIFT City: Commerce Secretary says SEBI and RBI working to provide greater
capital account convertibility in Financial SEZ such as GIFT city, Gujarat. Percy
Mistry Committee had recommended it (2007), otherwise we can't become an
international finanicial centre like London, NY or Tokyo. What is capital account
convertibility- what benefits and harms it pose to Indian economy? Refer to
PowerPoint code "L3/P2"
Companies Act 2013, provides 3 type of companies- One person company,

private limited company and public ltd company (2 subtypes- listed and
unlisted). Listed companies have to follow strict norms under companies Act.
That's why many of them began process to turn into private ltd. Companies e.g.
TVS automobile Reasons: [+] private ltd. Are not required to appoint women
directors or independent directors in the BoD. [+] Can give loans to directors [+]
No need to setup a separate audit Committee [+] no restriction on how much of
the profit can be dolled out to executive/directors as remuneration. So in
conclusion, better registered as private ltd. Company or limited liability company
(LLP), because no point in setting up a public ltd. Company unless you want to
launch an IPO to get equity finance from aam-juntaa. [+] SEBI requires public
listed companies to disclose their board decisions within 30 minutes, and other
material information within 24 hours. This doesn't apply for private ltd.
Companies.
Companies Act 2013 requires listed public ltd. Companies atleast 1 woman
director in BoD. Else penalty from 5k to 5 lakh and separate penalty by SEBI for
upto 25 crores for non-compliance of SEBI's corporate governance guidelines-
2014. But many companies yet to appoint women. Some only got their family
member ladies in board of director- so act implemented in letter but not in spirit.
SEBI announces norms for municipal bonds, E-IPO, Adhar Based E-KYC. Argues in
favour of allowing pension funds to pour money in capital market, and relaxation
of REITs norms. And allowing banks to convert debt to equity for stressed
companies with recovery potential.
Coal ministry launches online Coal Projects Monitoring Portal (e-CPMP) for all
large projects, both public and private. Complaints/disputes can be filed online.
This will remove bottlenecks and fast track the projects by improving
communication between Business to Government (B2G), Union Government to
State Government (G2G) and so on.
Geotechnical textile products are used for work related soil, rock e.g. laying
down roads and pavements in hilly areas, slope stabilization, protecting river
embankments-tunnels-rail-track etc. Marine Engineering Soil Erosion landfills and
waste management. Benefits of Geotextile products [+] less maintenance, need
less space. [+] road will not have potholes. [+] ground stability during disasters.
India is a leading producer, and now Ministry of Textile will promote this sector in
North East.
At the Mint Corporation held in Delhi, Finance Minister advocates more use of
cheques, plastic currency and other negotiable instruments. It will cut down the
cost of printing money, and help fighting against black money problem.
PMO asks Railway minister why trains are late, Prabhu begins analysing
emergency era files because trains ran on schedule during that time.
GIFT city- Gujarat international financial tech city. JV between GJ urban

development co. ltd and IL&FS. 30 km from State capital Gandhinagar. GIFT city
is planned as a financial SEZ.RBI to amend FEMA rules to allow for transaction in
foreign currencies since GIFT city will deemed to be a foreign territory. [+] SEBI
guidelines: (1) Any Indian or foreign stock exchange can set up a subsidiary in
IFSC. (2) investors can invest foreign currency directly in the Mutual funds/
hedge funds operating in this area. (3) many other technical nuances not
important from exam point of view. [+] IRDA to allow foreign insurers to set up
branches in IFSC. SEBI relaxes guidelines for setting up this International
financial servcie NSE will setup international exchange for trading of shares,
bonds, currencies and derivatives. Smart city = automated waste collection
system, centralised cooling. Challenges: [+] lack of full capital account
convertibility. [+] TAX rate should be reduced - Malaysia 3%, Dubai 0%. [+]
Alternate dispute resolution system needed for faster legal resolutions
Labour Ministry of planning to amend the EPF act, allowing the workers to
choose between EPFO and NPS. If workers chooses NPS, then employer will not
be required to contribute to EPFO. Ignored because formal bill is yet to be
drafted.
Nuclear scientist cum Chairman of IIT-Bombay BoD, Anil Kakodkar criticises HRD
ministry for fast tracking the selection of IIT directors. It's not possible to
interview 36 candidates in a day and appoint director among them. (well may be
he should preach the same thing to UPSC as well.)
Make in India: Ford motors opens its Sanand Plant (Ahmedabad), part of Make in
India. And aims to triple the exports. Sanand-Kadi-Halol 135 kms area will
become Detroit of India. Government buys keychains, cufflinks, gold plated mugs
and other souvenirs to promote make in India, during Narendra Modi's Europe
visit.
In budget 2015, government had announced hundred crore rupees for Madressa-
modernisation. But 3000 Madressa's affiliated with Darool Ulum, have pledged
they'll not accept Government money, nor they'll start modern teaching in their
institutes.
RBI revises the norms for Agri-loan reschulement during natural calamities. If
50% croploss in a district, then the rules will be triggered- bank can give relief to
farmer by extend the loan payment period to 3-5-7-10 years depending in type
of loan and damage.
Ex-NAC member cum Economist Jean Dreze begins fresh round of criticism
against Aadhar-UIDAI. [+] project running without legal framework [+] originally
it was planned as a voluntary facility but slowly becoming compulsory despite
judicial interventions. e.g. From April 1, UID compulsory for MNREGA payment in
300 districts. [+] It will take years before hundred percent coverage is achieved.
So those without Aadhar card will be deprived of Government scheme benefits.
[+] it creates a vast infrastructure of social control that can be misused, Four
things must work perfectly- biometric device, computer, mobile and internet.
Otherwise, bureaucrats can harass people in pretext of electricity /internet
connectivity issues. (e.g. babu saying "internet not working right, give addition
10 rupees so I will use internet from my personal mobile to run this machine and
get DBT transferred in your account and so on).[+] Jean's earlier criticism against
the whole idea of DBT that male head of the rural family will blow away all the
money on bidi, tobacco, desi liquor and gambling.
Disinvestment: (1) As such Government plans to get $3.5 billion from

disinvestment in ONGC and IOC. But Since the fall in oil prices, the shareprice of
oil company have also fell. Therefore government decided to delay
disinvestment for the timebeing. (2) Union to sell 5% from Rural Electrification
Corporation (REC). 25% reserved for Mutual funds and insurance cos. 20%
reserved for retailer investors, each can bid upto Rs.2 lakh rupees. Expects to
get ~1,600 crores. This is the first disinvestment in financial year 2015-16.
Dena Bank signs MoU with LIC. Under Prime Ministers Pradhan Mantri Jeevan
Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJBY) scheme. Beneficiaries: 18 to 50 age group people with
Aadhaar-linked savings account. They get life insurance for upto 55 age.
Insurance premium: 330 per year. 2 lakh paid in death.
At present, world top 3 rating agencies are Fitch, Moodys and Standard & Poors.
However, they don't always give correct rating to sovereign and corporate
bonds. e.g. they deliberately portray rosy picture before subprime crisis. During
Ukraine crisis, they downgraded Russia's sovereign rating on 'political' factors, to
please the Western powers. Annoyed with all this, BRICS nation now thinking of
starting their own credit rating agency.
Electronic version of money order begun in 2008. iMO- instant money order for
Rs.1k to 50k, recipient can get money from the post office. eMO: Electronic
money order: Rs. 1 to 5k. Delivered to your home.
Poor children's brain have 6% less surface area than children from well to do
families. Thus poverty is directly associated with a child's behaviour and
cognitive abilities.
RBI's 80 years' celebration. Fodder from guest speakers: [+] RBI should promote
indigenous paper-ink in printing currency. [+] Need for Financial inclusion
because the poor still too far away from banks or too uncomfortable stepping
into one. [+] India requires lot of finance/capital for infrastructure. But both
banks/companies have stuck lot of money in previous NPA assets. So we need to
push infrastructure finance but not at the cost of financial stability of capital
market.
Marine insurance policy covers all type of "perils of sea". But an Andhra Pradesh
company did not receive compensation after the December 26, 2004 tsunami In
Indian Ocean. Because National consumer Law protection commission held that
tsunamis are sourced from earthquakes and thus not "peril of the sea", so No
insurance claim can be made. Now Supreme Court bench will decide whether
tsunami is an insurable risk or not.
Niti Ayog Vice Chairman says Union Government alone can't fully compensate
farmers for crop damage. But it'll increase MNREGA from100 to 150 days in
areas that were Recently hit by unseasonal rain. + Some cash Compensation
national and State Disaster Relief Fund.
Gujarat government's Farm Income Insurance Scheme (FIIS). It predicts farmers
income in advance and if less income received because of any factor, then
insurance will be paid to fill up the gap. May be this concept can be used at all
Indai level to provide agricultural insurance and prevent farm distress. Farmer
will also feel incentivized to produce more.
As such National Food Security act was to be implemented in all states by 4th
April 2015. But many states yet to identify beneficiaries. Only 11 states/UT
Implemented the act. So again, union Government extended the deadline for 6
months. Basics already covered in last survey article
French parliament votes for two laws (1) if a fashion industry hires ultra-thin
model beyond certain Body mass index, it'll be punishable. Reason- such craze
for size zero body drives women towards Bulimia (eating large amt of food and
then vomiting it out to keep weight in check), OR anorexia (fear of eating) and
other mental disorders. (2) if a photo is Artificially beautified using photoshop
then it must be labelled as "retouched photo", otherwise such Impossibly good-
looking celebrity photos, also drive people towards expensive Cosmetic
surgeries and eating disorders.
Bhai updates monetary policy. But doesn't reduce repo rate any further. Reason:
lack of monetary transmission i.e. RBI's monetary policy not reflected in real
economy yet because banks have not lowered their interest rates. Bhai is also
angry because when RBI raises repo rate, banks immediatly raise their loan
rates, but when RBI reduces repo rates, banks don't immediatly reduce theirs.
SBI chairman justifies saying loan pricing depends on competition and demand
for loans. Bhai says he'll only reduce repo rate further after [+] banks reduce
their loan rates [+] new inflation data comes. Anyways, later, SBI reduced base
rate by 0.15% and ICICI by 0.25%, because they also know one must not play
with aag, paani and Rajanbhai. [+] Bhai suggest base rate calculation system
needs to be changed so that in future, banks will have to quickly adjust
themselves According to the changes in monetary policy.
RBI's plans for [+] guidelines on salary of non-executive directors in private
banks. [+] Allowing Indian companies to raise overseas rupee debts.
NCVT-MIS Portallaunched (https://ncvtmis.dget.in). It can generate e-certificate
for beneficiaries who've completed their skill training program; public and
Government can moniter the performance of skill Development schemes, exam
calendars, statistics etc.
Moodys raises Indias rating outlook from stable to to positive. But rating not
changed, it still remains Baa3, because Moody's still waiting for evidence of
growth in India.
Foreign Trade Policy 2015. It's being covered in the economy lecture series
NSSO-2013: more than 5.5 crore MSME in India, mostly owned by SC, ST, OBC
yet only 4% of them get institutional finance. Budget-2015 announced Micro
Units Development Refinance Agency (MUDRA) Bank to give them last mile
credit delivery. It'll first begin as a subsidiary of SIDBI and later converted to a
full-fledged bank through an act of parliament. If banks fails to meet priority
sector lending norms, they've to deposit money in NABARD's RIDF or SIDBI's
SEDF. RBI will pull out Rs.20,000 crores from such priority lending shortfall funds,
and give it to Mudra. [+] 3 Loan schemes: Shishu: upto 50k, Kishor50k to 5 lakh,
Tarun-5 to 10 lakh. More points on fiction and purpose refer to L5/P3.pptx in
download section and my lecture video on YouTube.
Gujarat tourism Corporation along with Akshar Travels begins "Industrial tour
package". Wherein, person can see Nano plant in Sanand, Pipavav port near
Amreli, Alang ship breaking yard in Bhavnagar and Amul Dairy in Anand.
Locations of places important for match the following type MCQs in Indian
Economic Geography.
Indian temples have tonnnes of gold. Modi wants them to deposit it under gold
monetisation scheme, so it can be melted and loaned to jewellers, while Temple
of earns interest. But some temples in Kerala opposed saying its better to
perverse ancient/medieval gold artifices in their Original form rather than
melting.
RajanBhai warns NBFCs not to outsource their crucial operations such as KYC
verification, internal audit etc. because it may compromise customer database -
leading to spams/scams and ruin reputation of the said company.
2004: 164 nations adopted Dakar Framework to deliver Education for All
commitments by 2015. UNESCO "Education for all" report appreciates progress
in India saying (1) goal: 80% 80% enrolment in pre-primary education by
2015=done. [+] Goal: universal primary enrolment done [+] Universal youth
literacy by 2015: just little remaining. [+] reduce adult illiteracy rate by half =
not done. [+] India is only South and West Asian country to get gender parity for
primary and lower secondary enrolment. Although criticism: NGO Pratham's
ASER Report- students learning outcomes are very poor despite spending crores
of rupees.
1930s: Economist Simon Kuznets introduced GDP. But nation's

income/wealth/production alone cannot portray the whole picture. Therefore,
Later UNDP's HDI and Bhutan's Gross Happiness index came out. 2013: US NGO
Social progress imperative launched Social Progress Index (SPI). It ranks country
on 52 indicators including health, water, sanitation, safety, freedom etc.
"Outcomes". But doesn't include GDP. Latest Ranking- 1:Norway, 16: USA, 101:
India Total 133 nations. EU, Paraguay and many cities of Latin America are using
SPI to plan their national and urban Development policies.
New research says- eldest son is healthy and tall in Indian families because of
preference for sons. But this difference seen only among Hindus and not among
Muslims. Plus, Given our poor sanitation and nutrition, our children have lower
height than even African nations.
2009: Satyam Chief Ramalinga Raju admits 7k crore accounting manipulation in

company. 2015: court orders 7 years jail and 5.5 crore penalty. way ahead:
companies act 2013 provides for class action suits to help investor recover
money from such fraudsters. we also need to implement FSLRC (Justice BN
SriKrishna) report on Indian financial code (IFC) and reforms in regulatory bodies.
[+] SEBI relaxes G-Sec investment limit for foreign investors' custodian banks to
30 billion. [+] Rajan says, only those distressed sarkaari banks with proper plan
for re-capitalization, will get capital support from Government. Earlier
government had infused ~7000 crores to SBI, PNB et al depending on their
performance. [+] Rajanbhai says we need to cherist Moody's upgrade because
lot needs to be done yet. By 2022, India will give skill training to 500 million
people, but will be able to create ~110 million jobs only. [+] PM increases
subsidy for farmers even if 3% of their crop is damaged. Earlier threshold was
50% [+] Coal india increases the quantity of coal, that it can sell thru e-auction.
[+] SEBI says if listed public limited companies donot include women director by
deadline they'll have to pay minimum 50k fine or more. [+] IIM-B's housing
sentiment index says Indian junta waiting for prices to drop. [+] SEBI issues
norms for tendering and settlement of shares via stock exchanges [+] RajanBhai
warns against fake RBI app making rounds on Whatsapp. [+] 2012, Sept: EPFO
announced minimum Rs.1000/- pension to all subscribers but Government didnot
provide further direction so EPFO will stop it. [+] North India: untimely rain and
hailstorm means PDS procurement will be lower than target. That's common
sense. [+] Union tells SC, only Government has power to decide gas prices.
Reliance can't approach arbitration at national / international level, if they don't
like it. ignored till final verdict comes
2014: Tourist Visa on Arrival-Electronic Travel Authorisation (TVoA-ETA)

announced to help short duration visa from 44 countries. But often people
mistook It for "visa on arrival" scheme. So now Government renamed it into e-
Tourist Visa to make it clear that it is not an on-arrival scheme.
Under National Food Security Act (NFSA), State governments have to identify
beneficiaries first. But many states are yet to finish this exercise, therefore union
government has extended the deadline to 30/sep/2015.
TRAI and DoT (Department of Telecommunications) ordered phone mobile

number portability from third May. Implications [+] at that we have 22 telecom
circles. You can change mobile operator only for the given circle. But Full MNP
will allow subscribers to retain their mobile number in any part of the country
even when they change their operator or State. [+] Calls can also be made using
the prefix 0 and/or +91 for inter-circles. [+] problem? Telecom Association
says it is not possible to finish by 3rd may due to some technical issues.
RBI says its main focus is Bharat Bill Payment System. Basics already covered in
old article.
Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) corridor. AAP government wants to shut down part of BRT
and expand the regular road instead. Pro-A'bad BRTS model: (1) it's closed
"circuit". Non-BRT city Buses are not allowed to enter. (2) heavy fines if private
vehicles enter the BRT lane. Delhi-BRTS model: (1) it allows city buses to enter in
the BRT lane, but then it leads to congestion. Although speed is decreased but,
more number of passengers carried compared to A'bad. (2) Traffic police not
vigilant on the private vehicles entering the BRT Lane.
Sugar mill arrears issue. Basics already discussed in last year's economic survey
article. New development: Government mulling to increase duty on imported
sugar and create a buffer stock of surplus sugar by procuring from farmers.
Some woman attacks European Central Bank (ECB) president Mario Draghi
during a conference. [+] WPI is negative since November 2014 due to cheap
food and fuel. But industralists demand further cuts in repo rate, so loans can
get cheaper and demand can increase. But RBI governor Not interested, until
commercial banks reduce loan rates first. [+] Full capital convertibility means a
foreign investor can repatriate his money into his own local currency at will. At
present we have only partial capital account convertibility, but to become a
global economy, we need to towards full capital account convertibility- says
Minister of State for Finance. Basics of Full Cap.AC, its pros and cons already
covered in lecture video and power points. [+] RBI governor Rajanbhai hints he
has Difference of opinion about creation of Public Debt Management Authority
(PDMA). [+] RBI allows differential interest rates for term deposits above Rs. 15
lakh, without the option of premature withdrawal. [+] Rajanbhai allegedly
received death threat from ISIS assassin via email. It seems ISIS terrorists and
facebook pranksters are are unaware that one must not play with aag, paani and
Rajanbhai.
Currently, airlines are free to fix fares on their own supply and demand rules. But
100+ MP Requested government put total Price control over airline tickets.
However Government's opinion is- we need to be regulating predatory air
fares rather than total pricing control. Otherwise it would violate the principles of
free market and lead us back to the same license quota inspector raj and the
subsequent balance of payment crisis.
Given the unseasonal rains in North India [+] Farmers eligible to get
compensation even if 33% crop damaged (earlier this limit was 50%) [+]
government and RBI are working to tweak the interest of pension scheme.
(@present upto 3 lakh rs. Loan effectively costs 4% interest rate to farmer, if he
promptly repays it).
Income tax return forms: ITR-1 = Individuals having income from salary, pension,
interest and house property. ITR-2= income from capital gains and foreign
assets. [+] Income tax Department has updated these forms, seeking additional
information to combat black money [+] Details of foreign visits and your
passport number and Expenditure on those trips. [+] bank account numbers,
IFSC codes, When was the account opened and closed etc. [+] criticism: A lot of
people have a number of bank accounts and they leave some accounts passive
or inactive. Have to quote Aadhar number, many assesses don't have it.
Broadband penetration: India ranks 125th. We are more bogus than even Bhutan
and Sri Lanka. Reason: multi-layered structure in decision making.TRAI
Chairman Rahul Khullar 5% levy on mobile licenses, to finance broadband. [+]
0% license fees for fixed broadband line operators. [+] Make Wireless Planning
Commission (WPC) A statutory body, free from Department of Telecom. [+]
Revamp the Decision-making structure in National Optical Fibre Network (NOFN).
NOFN aims to spread broadband in 2.5 lakh village panchayats by 2016, but
hardly 50k Panchayats covered so far :- [+] Kerala's Idduki district becomes first
in India to be linked with National Optic Fibre Network (NOFN) for rural
broadband (JanWeek2)
2015: RBI allowed Indian companies to raise offershop rupee bonds. This is a
small move towards full capital account convertibility. Indian Railways Finance
Corporation (IRFC) to raise up to $1 billion through offshore rupee bonds. It'll be
the first domestic issuer to eye so-called masala debt to diversify its source of
funds.
Spectrum sharing: [+] telecom cos. can pool spectrum for better efficiency. [+]
TRAI allows sharing but not leasing. [+] TRAI expected to give final word on 15
days. hence ignored for the moment.
Target Podium podium scheme (TOPS) aims to Give funding to sportsmen's
participating in 2016 and 2020 Olympics. Problem: beneficiaries will be identified
by a Committee. Both Abhinav Bindra and Mary Kom are part of the Committee
and at the same time, they'll be receiving funding from TOPS = conflict of
interest
IMF is "puzzled" by CSO's revised method for GDP calculation. They're sending a
team to investigated. Ignored because matter already covered in powerpoint
(L5/P1) and lecture- how and why Rajanbhai and Arvind Subramanium too are
baffled by the GDP numbers.
Standing Conference of Public Enterprises (SCOPE)- is the apex body of the

Central Government owned public enterprises. Members: Central public sector
units, a few State Government enterprises and some nationalised banks.
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) decides [+] MSP for contton
increased to 3750 (medium stable) and 4050 (long stable). [+] imported sugar
will attract 40% duty(earlier 25%). This is done to protect the local sugar
industry and farmers. [+] Maharashtra State Co-operative Cotton Growers
Marketing Federation given permission to do public procurement at MSP.
At present, RBI manages public debt. Both RBI and SEBI control bond market.
Budget 2015 wanted to create separate public debt management agency
(PDMA) and hand over RBI's bond market regulation to SEBI. But since Rajanbhai
opposed, the idea has been dropped. But now he dropped the idea saying, we
will come up with a new framework later on. Most likely because Rajanbhai had
opposed the idea. Basics of PDMA, Its benefits already covered in the
lecture/powerpoint code L4/P2.pptx. [+] Rajya Sabha can only discuss on Finance
bill, but they cannot vote on it. Therefore, Modi Government has even included
some non-taxation proposals in the Finance Bill, so they can be passed without
voting. Opposition complained about this to the speaker but she did not take
action. [+] To combat against money laundering, IT department had created a 14
page complex ITR form seeking info. on foreign trips in foreign bank accounts.
However given the opposition by people and corporates, Jaitley promised to
come up with a new simpler ITR form.
[+] SEBI directive to mutual fund companies- about informing customers the risk
involved in a particular product. Before: Color coded labels: Blue (low), yellow
(medium), brown(high risk) [+] after: A speedometer like riskometer with 5
levels low, moderately low, moderate, moderately high and high. [+] RBI relaxes
norms for NBFCS so they can sell mutual fund products easily. [+] After TRAI
directive: Telecom companies slash national roaming tariff and reduce rates for
calls/SMS. [+] RBI orders banks to include `third gender in all forms. [+] HDFC
launches separate home loan product for women called "Womenpower" [+] to
increase the penetration of landline, BSNL will give unlimited free calls from
BSNL landline to any operator/any mobile during night hours from 9PM to 7AM
Smart cities: Cabinet clears proposal for (1) 100 smart cities (48 k crore) (2)
AMRUT mission for 500 cities, replacing JNNURM (50k crores). [+] <--AMRUT--
>[+] Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT) for 500
cities with population of over 1 lakh [+] AMRUT will replace Jawaharlal Nehru
National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM). Union will not appraise each and
every project, it will be left to the discretion of state governments. [+] If previous
JNNURM projects have complete 50% of work, then they too will be funded by
AMRUT. <--->Smart cities: Each State will shortlist smart city aspirants. They'll
draft proposals & union will release funds in such manner that all States will get
at least one such smart city. Total 100 smart cities planned. [+] 10% bonus fund
will be given depending on performance. Criticism: [+] must focus on "RURBAN"
mission first, to reduce migration towards cities. Otherwise better cities =more
migration = again filth, congestion, slums =back to square one [+] Better just
focus on three things: transportation, e-governance and easy land titling. [+]
Urban development ministry tries to give parameters like speed of public
transport network, availability of potable water, shops and recreational places in
the vicinity etc. But lack of common definition on what constitutes a smart city?
Delhi and Madrid to sister cities, they'll share best practices for pollution
control, water conservation and recycling and waste management. [+] now you
can buy tickets to visit ASI controlled historical monuments like Tajmahal,
through IRCTC. <-->Research says "smart maps" will save $8 billion per year in
India. How? You can quickly identify the shops where you can find the items you
are looking for [+] ambulances and police can reach the victim quickly [+] if less
time spent in transport= less GHG emission.
Tourism: <--PRASAD by tourism Ministry-->[+] name: Pilgrimage Rejuvenation

and Spirituality Augmentation Drive (PRASAD) [+] 12 cities shortlisted:
Amaravati (Andhra Pradesh), Gaya (Bihar), Dwarka (Gujarat), Amritsar (Punjab),
Ajmer (Rajasthan), Kanchipuram (Tamil Nadu), Vellankani (Tamil Nadu), Puri
(Odisha), Varanasi (Uttar Pradesh), Mathura (Uttar Pradesh), Kedarnath
(Uttarakhand) and Kamakhya (Assam). [+] There will be a special directorate
under the Ministry with 15 cr. Budget, to implement the scheme, and coordinate
with HRIDAY.
Tourism: <--HRIDAY by Urban development Ministry-->[+] full name: Heritage
City Development and Augmentation Yojana (HRIDAY) scheme, aimed at
revitalising the unique character of the heritage cities in India. [+] following
cities included: Amaravati, Gaya, Dwarka, Badami (Karnataka), Puri, Amritsar,
Ajmer, Kanchipuram, Vellankani, Warangal (Telangana), Varanasi, and Mathura.
[+] ~450+ crores allotted.
[+] HRD Ministry wants to update the education policy. Junta opinion invited
through mygov.in [+] Under UGC's Choice-Based Credit System (CBCS) students
can pick their desired courses, learn at their own pace, undergo additional
courses to get interdisciplinary knowledge. But DU teachers opposed to it saying
[+] this cafeteria approach is unsuitable for Indian education system. [+] Indian
universities do not have the requisite infrastructure. [+] Universities need to be
given autonomy to decide what type of curriculum they want to teach.
Opposition walks out on GST bill. It is not because, features, pros and cons
already covered in Lecture and powerpoint L4/P4.pptx.
Reasons for farmer suicides in India: Green Revolution and subsequent soil
salinity, fertiliser overuse = productivity decline. [+] So farmers begin cash crops
to keep profit margin same. [+] but on seasonal rains, pest attack an
international market fluctuations = cash crops becomes a loss-making business.
[+] 85% of farmers are in debt of money lenders. They don't have the requisite
papers to qualify for bank loans. [+] as such a various government schemes
provide fertiliser, pesticide, water, electricity two farmer at a subsidized rate. [+]
But farmers cannot get maximum output because small land size, no machines,
no irrigation facility, no post production storage / processing in nearby places.
<-->What does economic survey how to say on this problem- refer to L5/P2.pptx.
[+] Agro Subsidy comparision: India-$56 billion for 120 million farmers. USA: 20
billion for 2 million farmers. EU: 58 billion for 27 million farmers.
Delhi's budget with junta participation: [+] Delhi divided into 12 blocks x 20
crores for each. [+] further these 12 blocks divided into 40 parts, with 50 lakh for
each. [+] juntaa meeting, voting and finally projects decided.
Labour Ministry directs EPFO [+] to continue minimum Rs.1000 pension monthly
to its subscribers. [+] Govt. allows EPFO to invest 5% of its corpus in stock
market via exchange traded funds (ETF). Benefits: EPFO can earn higher, and via
ETF government can easily disinvest. Although EPFO's main body "Central Board
of Trustees" is opposed to the idea.
World bank says MNREGA is the best and only insurance India as against
unseasonal rains and farmer distress. But, MNREGA failed to impact poverty, it
needs to be revamped to focus on capital asset creation.
75% of Indian CA, company secretaries, Lawyers still depend on relative, friends
and acquaintances to find new clients. This means Indian financial service sector
is a still unorganized. Need to promote online portals where clients can meet
them.
Priority sector lending (PSL) basics covered in the PowerPoint L1/P5.pptx.

Reserve Bank revises norms for priority sector lending: [+] Medium enterprises,
social infrastructure and renewable energy included. [+] no more distinction
between direct and indirect agriculture lending. [+] internal breakup: 8% loan
money must go to small and marginal farmers, 7.5% to micro-enterprises, 10%
to weaker sections [+] all this is to be done in a phased manner e.g. 7% now,
7.5% next year and so on. [+] foreign banks will <20 branchs- their loans to
exporters, will also be counted under PSL. [+] at present, RBI assesses PSL
performance on yearly basis, but now they'll do it on quarterly basis (to prevent
'march rush').
National Institute of Electronics and Information Technology(NIELIT) signed MoU
with Snapdeal to give digital marketing courses to MSME and artisans.
NITI Ayog gets 2 more fulltime membes from Private sector: Sanjeev Sanyal
(Deutsche Banks global strategist, Singapore) and T V Mohandas Pai (Ex
boardmember of Infosys and present chairman, Manipal Global Education). More
mains/interview related details under economy section
1987: Ambani giving rich dividends to shareholders but not paying any taxes to
government, claiming various exemptions and deductions. So, Rajiv Gandhi (PM
cum FM), introduced Minimum corporate tax. [+] 1996: Chindu comes up with
MAT Minimum Alternate Tax, with carry forward system. [+] 2015: Jaitley
budget says 18.5% MAT on book profits but no MAT on the capital gains made by
FIIs from 1/4/2015. [+] But later IT department asks FIIs to pay MAT for their
capital gains before 1/4/2015, hence in controversy.
[+] 3 SAI athletes attempt suicide after alleged ragging by seniors at Water
Sports Centre at Punnamada. [+] DU student organization promoting "Kaali
stories" against Fairy tales. Theme will be same- people live happily every after
but they'll brown / black skinned instead of fair white skin.
Most bank use magnetic stripe based credit / debit cards. RBI ordered them to
switch to only EVM chip-based and PIN-enabled cards from 1st September
because Sept.1 because they protect against counterfeit (skimming) and lost
and stolen card fraud. [+] State Bank of India (SBI) in association with National
Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) launched State Bank RuPay Platinum Debit
Card for high networthy individuals. It gives 5% cash-back on utility bill
payments, 1% fuel surcharge waiver and complimentary airport lounge access.
Competition Commission of India (CCI) gives clean chit to online retail majors
Flipkart, Snapdeal, Amazon, Jabong and Myntra for lack of evidence in predatory
pricing /cartel formation etc.[+] Amazon India launches Service Provider
Network (SPN) to help MSME sell their goods through Amazon website. [+]
Andhra Government talking with flipkart, snapdeal, amazon to help sell
handloom products online.
Money scams & laundering: [+] 6 crore peoples' 80,000 crores stuck in ponzi
schemes. While Enforcement Directorate (ED) confiscates the money, it's not
quickly given back to investors. [+] 3 main challenges in money laundering are
(1) Hawala trade (illegal transfer of funds by skirting the legal banking route (2)
TBML: Trade-based money laundering (TBML) i.e. under-invoices or over-invoices
the trade receipts (3) accommodation entries i.e. criminal sets up a company
only on paper. Launches IPO at face value, later jack up its value several times
to escape capital gains tax.
Virtual Network Operator (VNO) is an operator giving services to an end

consumer by using the underlying network of an NSO (Network Service
Operator). VNO works like a reseller for telecom operators and bill directly to
customers. TRAI recommended Government to allow such entities in India.
Ministry of Information and Broadcasting Aims to auction ~135 FM radio
frequencies for Metro and small cities. Government aims to collect around 1500
crore rupees from this. Although target is challenging because FM radio
operations have become very expensive because music companies demand too
much royalties for playing the songs. Advertisement revenue is becoming
unsustainable to continue running the channel for free.
Kazi Nazrul Islam (KNI) Airport in West Bengal is India's countrys first private
greenfield airport. PM Modi planning to Inaugurate it and become first
passenger.
Cabinet approves 3 social security schemes (1) Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima
Yojana (PMJJBY) (3) Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY) (3) Atal
Pension Yojana (APY)
Pradhan Mantri Suraksha Bima Yojana (PMSBY): 1 year accidental death-cum-

disability cover. [+] 2 lakh for death [+] 2 lakh if both eyes, hands, legs gone [+]
1 lakh if 1 eye,hand,leg gone. [+] 18 to 70 y.o. savings account holders eligible.
[+] Premium of Rs. 12 per annum per subscriber, auto-debited from your bank
account. Breakup: 10 Rs. To insurance company, 1 rupee to agent, 1 rupee to
bank [+] Validity 1 year, can be renewed. [+] General insurance companies -
public and private sector, will be implementing this.
Pradhan Mantri Jeevan Jyoti Bima Yojana (PMJJBY) [+] 1 year life insurance cover
worth Rs.2 lakh rupees [+] Death by any reason eligible [+] LIC and other life
insurance companies to implement [+] premium: 330 per year per person, auto
debited from bank savings account. Breakup: 289 to Insurance co. Rs.30 to
agent, Rs.11 to bank [+] eligible 18-50 years savings account holder. If he has
multiple savings account- he can join only once.
Atal Pension Yojana (APY): [+] for unorganized workers, pension after 60 years
age. [+] Rs.1k, 2k, 3k, 4k and 5k per month, depending on contribution by the
client. [+] eligibility: 18 to 40 years [+] PFRDA to implement, money autodebited
from your bank account [+] Government to contribute equal amount in the fund,
if you're not an income tax payer, and not covered in any other social security
scheme of Government such as EPFO, Coal Mines, Tea plantation, Seamen's
provident fund, J&K employee PF etc. [+] Previous Swavlamban scheme had
similar feature- Government to co-contribute in unorganized sector worker's NPS
account. Now all those Swavlamban accounts to be migrated to Atal Pension
Yojana, unless the client wants to opt out. Then he'll continue in NPS.
Under Handloom (Reservation of Articles for Production) Act, 1985 - certain
garments and traditional handloom items can't be copied by powerloom/machine
operater textile companies. But under pressure from powerloom lobby,
Government aiming to repeal this law, so powerloom operators can make cheap
version of those handloom items. Pro= cheaper the better. Anti=livelihoood of
weavers.
Inland waterways: China, Europe >40% goods moved through inland waterways,
while in India hardly 3%. [+] We've Total inland water way >14,000 kms. [+]
Cost of transporting goods per kms: road- Rs.1.5, Rail-Rs.1, inland waterway just
30 paise. Till now we had five laws for five inland water ways viz. (1) Ganga-
Bhagirathi-Hooghly river system (Allahabad-Haldia-1620 km); (2) Brahmaputra
(Dhubri-Sadiya-891 km) (3) West Coast Canal (Kottapuram-Kollam) along with
Udyogmandal and Champakara Canals-(205 km) (4) Kakinada-Puducherry canals
at Godavari and Krishna rivers (1078 km) (5) East Coast Canal at Brahmani river
and Mahanadi delta rivers (588 km). [+] National Waterways Bill 2015
consolidates them into a single law. [+] 7th Sch. Entry 24 allows union to make
laws on inland waterways- their shipping, navigation. [+] this new bill wants to
create 101 waterways.
Niti Ayog full time member Economist Bibek Debroy suggests we should shift the
start of financial year from 1st April to Diwali because of our agricultural
seasons.
National Food Security Act, 2013 wants to give Subsidised food grains to 67% of
the population. But so far only 11 states Complied with the legal provisions such
as identifying beneficiaries, computerisation of PDS, setting a vigilance
committees, modern storage infrastructure etc. therefore union Government has
asked the remaining states to hasten the process of implementing NFSA.
Government also clarified they are not going to follow FCI-Shanta Kumar
Committee suggestion to curtail NFSA to only 40% of the population.
CAG criticizes implementation of Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) launched in
2007. Saying 62% of the projects failed to achieve targets. And tones of cases
where Benefits did not reach the intended beneficiaries
USTR's Special 301 Report on Intellectual Property Rights for 2015. India still
kept under Priority Watch List for his failure to protect IPR of American
companies. Matter already covered in old article on the same topic.
Column1
GIFT
repo
Repo
GIFT
GIFT
GIFT
Month Utility
14_12_DecW1 0P+M
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 M+I
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW1 OLF
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW2 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 M+I
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW3 M+I
14_12_DecW3 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 M+I
14_12_DecW4 M+I
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 M+I
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 M+I
14_12_DecW4 M+I
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 0P+M
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 M+I
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 M+I
14_12_DecW4 OLF
14_12_DecW4 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 0P only
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW1 M+I
15_01_JanW1 M+I
15_01_JanW1 0P+M
15_01_JanW1 OLF
15_01_JanW2 M+I
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW2 M+I
15_01_JanW2 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLf
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW3 M+I
15_01_JanW3 M+I
15_01_JanW3 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_01_JanW4 0P+M
15_01_JanW4 M+I
15_01_JanW4 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 M+I
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 OLF
15_02_FebW1 M+I
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 M+I
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 M+I
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 M+I
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW2 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 M+I
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 M+I
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW3 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 OLF
15_02_FebW4 0P+M
15_02_FebW4 0P+M
15_02_FebW4 M+I
15_03_MarW1 M+I
15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW1 M+I
15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW1 OLF
15_03_MarW2 OLF
15_03_MarW2 OLF
15_03_MarW2 M+I
15_03_MarW2 M+I
15_03_MarW2 M+I
15_03_MarW2 OLF
15_03_MarW3 M+I
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW3 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 0P+M
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_03_MarW4 OLF
15_04_AprW1 0P+M
15_04_AprW1 OLF
15_04_AprW1 M+I
15_04_AprW1 M+I
15_04_AprW1 OLF
15_04_AprW1 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 0P+M
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW2 M+I
15_04_AprW2 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 M+I
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW3 0P+M
15_04_AprW3 OLF
15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_04_AprW4 0P+M
15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_04_AprW4 OLF
15_04_AprW4 M+I
15_05_MayW1 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 M+I
15_05_MayW1 0P+M
15_05_MayW1 OLF
Topic
India signs prisoner transfer treaty with Qatar. (In prelims, it may be asked as a places in news type M
Because the way randomly UPSC is swinging trends, one should be prepared)
Water diplomacy: India provides drinking water to Maldives, China to built coalpowered de-salination p
Lanka
China invites India for Indo-Pacific partnership
Maldives signs Maritime silkroad agreement with China
Indian ocean must remain a zone of peace- Ajit Doval
anti-hijacking bill
Putin's India visit 10-11 december.
China-Pak economic corridor. Although topic already asked in Mains-2013, but still important as fodde
exams
Pak is "mainstreaming the terrorism" by allowing Hafiz Sayeed & co. to spew venom against India in p
platforms
Talibans training birds as suicide bombers
UNGA resolution asks India, Pak and Israel to abandon their nuke weapons. z_Ignored because Indo-Pa
NPT-disarmament already covered in old article.
US senate report says CIA tortured its prisoners to extract information upon President Bush's order. Alt
Republican Governor Boby Jindal defends Bush for keeping USA safe after 9/11
China planning to export its nuclear reactors and technology after tasting success with export of high-
trains.
Saudi Arabia signs pacts with India for hiring mais and domestic help. This'll ensure their safety and so
security
On December 6, 1971 Bhutan had recognized Bangladesh as a soverign nation, few hours before India
India-Israel FTA negotiation will resume soon.
Guwahati-Dhaka bus service resumed. It was closed after partition

American senate passed a bill to use force against ISIS.
Turkey President Erdogan trying to shakeoff Kamal Ataturk's legacy - just Modi doing with Nehru. Not i
because not affecting Indian interests, yet.
Terrorist attack on Army School in Peshawar, killing 132 children. Home ministry issues guidelines to S
install tall boundry walls, CCTV cameras and safety drills to prevent Peshawar like terror attack.
USA and Cuba to resume diplomatic ties. Ignored because not affecting Indian interest except those C
cum columnists in you know which newspaper
China to sign pact with Thailand for linking southeast Asia with its New Silk Road initiative
India-Bangladesh land swap deal- Mamta says she'll agree to it if only W.bengal was given compensat
package.
In 2014, China and Pakistan violated Indian airspace 16 times.
Visit of Bangladeshi President Abdul Hamid. Nothing substantial. Pranab gave him AIR and Doordarsha
recordings related to Bangladeshi liberation war of 1971 under Din Dayal Diplomatic gift lelo yojana (R
Laxmibai lawyer)
Australia wants a quadrilateral dialogue with India-US-Japan. [+] Hostage crisis in Sydney caf.
if a person is seeking political asylum abroad, Indian Government can't deny him passport saying he'
India's sovereignty and integrity - ordered Delhi HC
Stillwell road served as trade route between Assam and China's Yunnan. But it was closed after '62s w
Rijiju says it should be re-opened to boost bilateral trade.
Arrest of Mehdi Masroor Biswas - Pro-ISIS twitter user under name "Shamiwitness".
NSA Ajit Doval wants Indian Ocean Zone of Peace (IOZOP) declaration. It'll prevent major world power
increasing military presence in Indian ocean.
Survey of India files police complaint against Google for wrongly depicting India's map.
China making new Anti-terror law due to increased attacks in Xinjian province.
West Pakistani refugees in Kashmir: Parliament standing Committee report
World bank changed its goal from poverty eradication to shared prosperity
UNSC's human rights Committee wants to drag North Korea to International criminal court, for human
violation. Obama wants to re-induct N.Korea in states sponering terrorism, after Sony database allega
by North Koreans
growing China russia friendship. Russia being sanctioned for Crimea, so China pumping more funds th
loyality against Obama's Asian pivot
NDFB Bodoland militants massacreing tribals in Assam
Even after DGCA and Mumbai police banned drone-flying, freelances continuing, posing security threa
US state department promises better intel sharing to prevent repeatation of 26/11
Russia-Pak energy pact

India may end supporting Palestine in UN.
Ukraine Parliament dropped "non-aligned" status, planning to join NATO.
Ban ki Moon asks Sri-Lanka to cooperate with Human rights investigation. Basics already done in old a
US gives one extra month to India, to sign FATCA law. Basics already covered in old article.
China pledges more aid to Nepal
Ban ki Moon asks Pakistan not to execute the terrorists.
NATO finally ends Afghan mission.

like Osama Bin Laden, Mulla Omar also hiding in Pakistan.
China bans gmail
Crash of AirAsia flight QZ8501
All civil nuclear facilities of India, are now under IAEA watch.
India-Pak ball by ball on Lakhvi bail.

Bangluru pipebomb blast
UN asks Myanmar to give citizenship to Rohingyas. Already basics covered in old article.
Union's ceasefire agreements with Sessionist groups of North East, have failed to curb their 'organized
Discuss in light of recent events and suggest remedies.
Defense Minister Parrikar orders soldiers to respond to border violations with double force.
Home ministry gives more financial powers to CAPF and intelligence agencies
India-Pak exchange list of nuclear facilties- exercise began since 1991.
Earlier Chindu wanted to setup NCTC as central body against terrorism. But many states opposed citin
misuse for political ends. Now intelligence agencies again demanding MHA to setup similar body. But
announcement yet.
Palstine joins ICC to puruse war crimes by Israel. Basics already covered in old article- how Palestine's
status makes it eligble to join UN bodies.
Coastguard destroys Paki terrorist boat, Congis say it was a smuggler boat.
ISIS's twitter campaigner Mehdi arrested from Banglore. Hindu publishing ball by ball commentary on
investigation.
5 new countries join UNSC as non-permanent members.
Assam has world's highest number of internally displaced people by conflict
despite LeT, Lakhvi bail issues, USA will continue giving foreign aid to Pakistan under Kerry Lugar Bill 2
Although Tulsi Gabbard voted against it.
Nepal to join Silkroad via Tibet. How does this affect Indian interests?
India to clear nuclear logjam during Obama's visit, by twreaking the insurance provisions in nuke liabi
13th Pravasi Bharatiya Diwas at Gandhinagar
Terrorist attack on Chalie Hebdo magazine office at Paris, France
Lithuania joins Euro currency. Capital Vilnius
change of guards after Sri Lankan Presidential election.
In 2014, India had 2 lakh refugees says UNHCR. Syrians are the highest number of refugees under UN
protection.
in June 2014, Hamas and Fatah had formed "Unity government" in Palestine. Now Hamas wants new e
Home minister Rajnath says we'll not talk with any Militant group enganged in violence.
US-India investment initiative launched ahead of Obama's visiit
Crashed AirAsia plane's blackbox recovered from Java sea
Egypt court orders re-trial of Hosni Mubarak corruption cases. Not affecting India's interests, yet
Bhutan Seeks Amul's help to procure 2000 cows
Overseas Oil exploration competition between India-China
US court dismisses riot case against Modi, because as sitting head of a foreign Government, he is imm
American judiciary.
Pakistan is contemplating banning several terrorist organisations including the Haqqani network and J
Dawa (JuD)
internal-security: Home minister asks state governments to post young DM and SPs in Maoist infested
Indian-Americans campaigning to get US Postal Department issue a commemorative stamp for Diwali
got support fro msome US lawmakers, and perhaps Obama may announce it during 26th Jan visit to In
US thinktank report says Pakistan's Khusbab nuclear installation has added 4th reactor- this will help'e
more plutonium
International criminal court begins preliminary probe for Israel's war crimes in Palestine territories.
Obama says diplomatic talks ongoing with Iran on nuke issue, therefore IF US-Congress tries to enact
put new sanctions on Iran, I'll veto them.
Sri-Lanka: allegations that one RAW agent conspiered with opposition parties to ensure fall of Rajpaks
he was becoming pro-Chinese
Social media/internal security: Bangladesh blocks Viber and Tango messanging services due to securit
because difficult to keep track of conversations.
Selection process of Secretary General in UN. www.thehindu.com/opinion/op-ed/looking-for-a-lady-from
europe/article6799477.ece
Government asks Indians not to visit Yemen due to fragile security situation
Maoists begin protests in Nepal, create obstacle against drafting new Constitution
Sri-lanka: PM says they'll implement 13th Amendment (born from Indo-Lanka accord in 1987), to give
powers to provinces, but Srilanka will continue to remain a unitary state.
hardliner SriLankan Buddist launch a party inspired by BJP-RSS, named "Bodu Bala Sena", wishing the
leader like Modi
SAIL India aims to open a greenfield steel plants at Bandar Abbas Port in Iran.
Defense Minister Parrikar says some Ex-PMs compromised India's deep strategic assets but didn't reve
names of the PMs.
India declares 1 day of National mourning for the dead of Saudi king Abdulla Abdulla
US court summons John Kerry in a which some human right group demanded Obama administration to
RSS a "Foreign terrorist organization".
China to build a 7,000 km high-speed rail track to connect Beijing with Moscow via Kazakhstan
IF Obama includes India in Customs and Border Protection agencys Global Entry umbrella program, th
passport holders can enter USA in much smoother manner.
Foreign Secretary Sujatha Singh ousted despited 6 months left in tenure. New Secretary is US Jaishank
Important for PIN but beyond that not much
ISIS kills Japanese citizens

Extremism: Shia militants (Huthis) takeover Yemen's capital Sana'a
Outcomes of Obama's India visit
Pakistan has not banned JuD, only seized its assets. And still JuD even launches a new ambulance serv
US official says Rohingyas deserve citizenship in Myanmar. Basics already done in old article
Thai military regime gets ex-PM Yingluck Shinawatra impeached.
Nuke capable Agni missiles were not shown during 26th January parade.
Fidel Castro says he doesn't trust USA

Shushma's visit to China
During '71's war, Paki army had raped over 2 lakh women in Bangladesh. Now Bangla government con
title o 'Birangana" (war-heroines) and their wards will be given compensated.
China-Myanmar oil pipeline to supply oil to Kunming and Chongquin industrial hubs alone Yangtze. Bu
Malacca strait, to ensure less danger from Indian and American navies.
40 Indians missing from Mosul, Iraq, believed to be captured by extremists. Red Cross DG says India s
more efforts to get them rescued.
Mitt Romney- the former U.S. Republican presidential nominee announced not to enter in 2016 Presid
election. This will help chances of Jeb Bush-the younger brother of George Bush and an ex-governor o
BNP leader Khaleda Zia launching nation-wide protests-hartals against ruling PM Haseena. Haseena cu
electricity to Khaleada's office.
Ex-Pakistani Diplomat Husain Haqqani says Pakis shouldnot try to achieve parity with India because In
much larger and developed country. Pakistan's two-nation theory and parity doctrine is outdated, they
more pragmatic based on changing geopolitical scene at world level.
India polio free since 2011. Part of soft-diplomacy, our Health ministry offered expertise to Afghanistan
Pakistan to combat Polio. Afghans said yes yes, but Pak. Yet to repspond, although they too began givi
training to teachers doing Polio-campaign in Peshawar region
Sushma's China visit outcomes: Modi to reach China in late May 2015. Notes exchanged for opening a
route to Mansarovar- via Nathu La pass in Sikkim- it'll significantly reduce travel time compared to cur
Lekh pass in Uttarakhand. Mountpass vs state important for Prelims, new route as mains fodder.
Prince Charles and Diana contemplated calling off wedding

Jordon pilot Maaz al-Kassasbeh burned alive by ISIS terrorists. Jordan retaliates by executing 2 Iraqi Jih
Columnists angry over Obama's inaction. Turkey capable of destroying ISIS but Turkey wants Obama t
Syrian regime of Assad. Obama valvet gloving Assad to please Irani establishment so nuke-drama can
Israel can sleep easy..and so on Hence Turkey sitting idle in ISIS crisis
Ex-Al-Qaeda operative says Saudi princes funded them and even planned a stinger missile attack on U
President's plane the "Air force one".
February to be jampacked with maiden visits of Presidents from Singapore (Tony Tan) and SriLanka (Si
India
TransAsia plane crashes in Taiwan river.

In the 90s, after the breakup of Yugoslavia, the Croatia and Serbia armies had murdered each others c
in the latest ICC verdict absolves them of committing pre-planned genocides
Srilankan Government gives greenlight to Chinese port Development project in Colombo worth $1.5 b
Sholey Made in 1975- finally permitted for theatrical release in Pakistan after 40 years.
Paki PM Nawaz Sharif says Kashmir is their jugular vein and India altering demogrpahic makeup of this
through settling Hindu "non-state" people here.
APEC - Asia Pacific economic cooperation- India will soon become its members and benefit from this fr
block
India suspends trade with Pakistan through road, after a Paki truck driver found with narcotics
After Modi-Obama meeting, the proposed format of Civil Liability for Nuclear Damages Act (CLND 2010
nuclear suppliers will not be directly liable if there is any nuclear accident. (2) Their liability will covere
Rs.1500 crore insurance pool. Government and Government-owned Insurance companies will contribu
money in this pool.
Indias National Security Adviser Ajit Doval is Indias Special Representative for the boundary issue Wi
Recently he met with is counterpart Chinas State Councillor Yang Jiechi in Munich to resolve the Sin
border.
Pranab wisdom We have conveyed a strong message to our neighbours that the region must decide w
live in perpetual tension or understanding. We have already made big announcements for bilateral co
trade and security, however government must finish the "follow-up processes" to conclude such initia
David Beckham launched a new UNICEF fund called "7"- for children living in warzone. 7 is the jersey
wore during Manchester United football games.
Sri Lankas Northern Provincial Council (NPC) passed a resolution accusing successive governments of
justice in Tamil-genocide.
India needs to pursue a policy of equidistance diplomacy with US, China, Japan and others. We antago
country to please the other, it will hurt our growth and development agenda.
An elderly Indian, Sureshbhai Patel Was brutally assaulted by the police officers in Alabama, USA. MEA
protests. Indian-American Diaspora calls for need to train police officers on how to deal with minorities
1996: Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT) launched. So far 180+ nations signed and 160+
Thus, CTBT is one of the most widely supported arms-control treaties. It requires the signatories never
a nuclear explosion. India does not support this treaty. Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organis
(CTBTO) constantly monitoring earth's crust, atmosphere etc. possible Nuclear explosion done by any
This data collection also helps in early detection of natural disasters, climate change and meteor show
Modi calls us Nawaz Sharif. Columnists eagar to know when Dialogue process will resume again.
Islamic state(IS) was previously called Islamic State of Iraq and Levant (ISIL). Home Ministry plans to N
terror outfit under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act
The Sri Lankan Army will release 1000 acres of land in Tamil-majority North Province.
After the death of over 5000 and displacement of 10 lakh people, finally Ukraine cease fire deal reach
Summit among the leaders Ukraine, Russia, Germany and France. Outcome: Both Russia and Ukrain w
heavy weapons from the frontline.
Visit of Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena during FebW3
UN declared June 21 as International Yoga day. But a US senator is bringing a bill to ban tight-fitting Yo
because they're vulgar.
UN concerned over ongoing Bangladesh Turmoil between PM Sheikh Hasina (Awami League) vs. Oppo
Khalida Zia (BNP)
IMF chief Christine Lagarde gave ~18 billion$ loan to crisis-ridden Ukrain.
China did not openly declare support for India's permanent seat at UN Security Council. China only sai
respect the aspiration of India and Brazil to play bigger roles that UNSC.
Ex-ISI officer, in his Al-Jazeera interview says that Pakistan probably knew about Osama.
Myanmar Government says Rohingya and other people without full citizenship, are not eligible to vote
Petroleum Minister Dharmendra Pradhan becomes the first Modi-Minister to to visit Pakistan. He sough
support for faster implementation of the 1,800-km Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) nat
pipeline project. It'll also help building Modi's proposed national gas grid for India.
Chinese President "11th" Jinping likely to be the chief guest of Pakistan's National Day Parade on Marc
China launches first silk road cruise liner, under its maritime silk Road initiative. This vessel will visit M
Vietnam.
After the controversial replacement of Foreign Secretary Sujata Singh, the Government has amended
tenure of Foreign Secretary two years or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
Feb 2015 was the 29th foundation day of Arunanchal Pradesh, Modi visits the state, China criticizes.
Nobel Amartya Sen is the Chancellor of Nalanda University but Government of India has not given ap
his second term, file kept pending. so he has resigned. Although Government maintains we have not i
(only we kept the file pending ).
Sri Lanka planning to sign nuke energy pact with Pakistan. Modi to visit Sri Lanka in mid-March 2015
Ever since NATO and USA withdrew from Afghanistan, the civilian toll in terror attacks increased by 22
Coast guard DIG says he had ordered blowing of the Pakistani boat on 31/12/2014 because he did not
serve them biryani. Later retracts his statement.
Home Minister Rajnath Singh says there is >420% per cent jump in tourist arrivals last year, because
facility.
After the death of Col. Gadhafi, Libya has become a failed state, with various sects and terrorist ruling
region. Recently, ISIS terrorists Executive 21 Egyptian Christians who had come to Libya in search of w
Egypt has requested UN Security Council for an international intervention in Libya. However later it is
that it will not want an international "military" Intervention in the Middle East region.
Terrorist attack the Copenhagen conference in Denmark and killed jews. Israel Prime Minister has invit
European Jews to migrate to his country. Some reports allege that Danish Security and Intelligence Se
(known as PET) Already knew about the attacks, but did not do anything -perhaps to let the terrorists
jews under Denmark's unofficial 'safety valve' policy.
North Myanmar->Shan State->Kokang region. Here, heavy fighting between the Myanmar army and K
rebels for control of Laukkai township. This is led to large influx of refugees towards China. However C
government has assured that it will not interfere in domestic affairs of Myanmar.
India's High Commissioner in London will outsourcing of key consular services e.g. visa/passport and O
applications. Because they have to process the work 6 lakh applications a year. Outsourcing will help r
delays in operation.
Outcome of Sri Lankan Pres's visit to India: (1) nuclear energy cooperation transfer of both trained m
material (2) cooperation in agriculture, food processing, culture (3) participate in Nalanda University. U
issues- resettlement of Srilankan Tamils who had fled to Tamilnadu during LTTE-years. Srilanka seeks i
in housing projects for Tamil plantation workers in its Central province
China to give $50 Billion fund for Asian infrastructure investment bank and another $40 billion for Imp
of Silk Road Economic Belt to integrate Asian and European Economies along the Eurasian corridor.
The U.N. Human Rights Council Was to release a report on Sri Lankan civil war in March 2015. But the
postponed it to September 2015. Ignored because basics already covered in old article.
During India Pakistan match, All India Radio Twitter account re-tweeted a number of obnoxious and a
tweets. I&B Ministry ordered an enquiry
1991: India and Israel established formal diplomatic relations. 2015: for the first time, Israeli defence
visit India (during to participate in Aero India 2015 in Bengaluru)
China says its new embassy in Pakistan will be largest Chinese overseas Embassy. This is the evidence
deepest friendship with the failed state known as Pakistan(!)
Pakistan's is on fast track to weaponise spent nuclear fuel using its plutonium reprocessing plant in Ch
Punjab, says new satellite scans.
MEA and Afghan government finally managed to get release of Jesuit priest Fr. Alexis Premkumar Anto
after 8 months of Taliban captivity.
Maldives government arrested ex-President Mohammad Nasheed under anti-terror law for ordering arr
senior judge in 2012 that led to large scale violence. India expressed concern over "manhandling" of e
during arrest.
Union government is adopting a soft approach towards youth radicalized by ISIS-terror outfits- e.g. i
arrest, they're doing counseling with help of family members, and letting them off with an undertaking
Section 108 of the Criminal Procedure Code (security for good behaviour from persons disseminating s
matters).
H1B visa holding professional are eligible to work in USA and later can get "Green card". But their H4
spouses were not eligible. This led to martial discords. But from May 2015, they too will be eligible to
the new US government guidelines.
Given the high profile petroleum ministry corporate espionage case, now union government is plann
audit of all government computers with help of Department of Electronics & Information Technology (D
Although exercise won't be of much help because already more than 3000 government computers we
by foreign spyware and have leaked sensitive information to China, United States, Ukraine, France and
Netherlands.
Subramaniyam Swami wrote letter to CBI asking them to register FIR against Amartya Sen for embezz
Nalanda University funds while he was the chancellor
Pakistan makes stringent norms for mobile phone owners after Peshwar school attack. They'll to give fi
records as well, which will be crosschecked with national database. Otherwise, service will be cut off. p
indian Government too should learn lesson.
Jihadi John, the masked ISIL terrorist responsible for beheading orange-prisoner suit journalists, has
identified. He is Kuwait-born London computer programmer Mohammed Emwazi.
Afghan Government planning "Lapis Lazuili" route to connect with Central Asian and European econom
2008: NIA setup through an act, with its own special court. To combat terror finance and naxal finance
separate cell called " Terror Funding and Fake Currency Cell (TFFC)". It has been monitering suspect ba
accounts but no links to naxal found yet
Foreign Secretary, S. Jaishankar begins with "SAARC nation" yatra as part of "silent backchannel diplo
Next summit of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) will be held in Basharkostan, Russia. Putin w
India's full membership in this body. SCO was setup in 2001, as a counter to NATO.
Sean and David Goldman International Child Abduction Prevention law requires US government to tak
against any country that doesn't facilitate returning of abducted American children. Earlier one Indian
couple divorced but husband ran away with twins in 2008. Indian courts not facilitating their return, no
congress forcing Obama to take action against India. But India counters- we are not party to 1983 Hag
convention on International child abduction.
China backs a trilateral partnership with India and Sri Lanka to establish a Maritime Silk Road (MSR) an
the rise of Eurasia.
ISIS begins kidnapping Assyrian Christians in Syria, others begin to flee.

Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar's SAARC yatra continues.
Ex-Nepal PM and present maoist opposition leader Baburam Bhattarai visits India, says India has a ro
in the constitution-making conflict in Nepal, & peaceful Nepal is in Indias interest. Earlier Modi had s
Nepalese Constitution should be based on consensus rather majority. But at that time, he was criticize
interfering in Nepali affairs.
Iraqi forces launch attack to capture Tikrit from ISIS.
UN human rights commission vs. Sri Lanka. Basics already covered in old article.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes US-Iran deal because he fears it'll allow Iran to de
weapons. How does it affect Indian interst?
United States will deploy 60% of its Navy to Asia-Pacific region by 2020, under the Pivot to Asia doct
counter them, China has raised its defense budget by 10%. Main focus: Submarines and Chinese J-20
aircraft to counter US P-8A Poseidon surveillance aircraft.
Knife attacker slashes the face of U.S. envoy to South Korea Mark Lippert. This attacker wanted the N
South Koreas united.
American Hindu diaspora angry because New York mayor declared Eid as school holiday but no holida
Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton used her personal email account for doing official work. This
against public record / transparency laws in USA. Although she has submitted ~55,000 pages of email
from that private id to the Government but opposition argues she has not given all data. This could b
disturbing point for her presidential candidacy.
China is funding a $1.3 billion port project in Colombo. But suddenly, Sri Lankan government has susp
project for environment clearance. Chinese government has told Sri Lanka not to "discriminate agains
company (vs. Indian companies)
Biochemistry professor at Germany's Leipzig University, refused to accept an Indian student for intern
"we're hearing a lot of about rape problem in India and we have many female students in the universi
safety will be threatened!". Later, German envoy to India Michael Steiner wrote in his strongly-worded
the said professor- "India is not a country of Rapists."
Nigeria's Boko Haram group pledges allegiance to the Islamic State (IS) group leader Abu Bakr al-Bagh
This year, China and Russia will commemorate the 70th anniversary of WW2-victory and simultaneou
will join as "core partner" to China's twin initiatives the Silk Road Economic Belt and the Maritime S
Collectively these two transport corridors aim to integrate European and Asian economies with China
"anchor".
Modi's three-nation tour to the Seychelles, Mauritius and Sri Lanka for "Indian Ocean outreach" and be
security provider' in Indian ocean, to counter Chinese presence. SAGAR concept Security and Growt
the Region.
Modi2Mauritius trip: (1) opening up the ocean economy, or blue economy. (2) India will build trans
infrastructure (sea and air links) for the Agalega Islands (3) India gave coastal petrol vessel MCGS Bar
maritime security on loan+grant. (4) India to help in sugarcane cultivation and tourism promotion. (5)
financial centres and petroleum hubs (6) Indira called Mauritius "Chhota Bharat" during her visit in 70
70% junta is India. Mauritius celebrates its National Day on March 12 to pay homage to Gandhi's dand
same day in 1930. (6) Modi will address the issue of DTAA, round tripping and tax avoidance by Indian
who deliberately register in Mauritius and then invest in India, to avoid taxes.
Modi2Seychelles Trip (1) 1% of 93,000 junta is India, only 15/116 islands are inhabited, but has very la
India gave second Dornier aircraft for their coastal surveillance, earlier provided Radar technology as
cooperation for hydrography, infra and other fancy things. (4) Seychelles is a leader among the Small
Developing States (SIDS), vocal member against climate change and part of Pan-African e-Network of
Maldives Ex-President Mohd. Nasheed arrested Under antiterrorism law, because in 2012, He tried to a
senior judge Using military without authority. Final verdict- he's given 13 years jail.
J&K has a separate preventive detention law called "Public Safety Act (PSA)". Under this act, Deputy
Commissioner (district collector) can get any person into preventive custody for up to 2 years with no
a threat to the security of the State. Senior separatist leader Masarat Alam was imprisoned under this
long time. He was mastermind of the stone pelting mobs in Kashmir. Version #1: new CM MM Sayeed
release of such "political prisoners" because no criminal charges framed so far. Version #2: His release
already okayed by Union Home ministry during President's rule. Either way, now union is contemplatin
him again under NIA act.
India-Japan civil nuclear deal not moving forward because Japan wants (1) India to share nation specifi
about which countries supplied India what type of nuclear fuel and technology. (2) If India breaks its v
begins testing nuclear weapons then Japan will Cancel the deal and asked India to return all the equip
technologies. Both these conditions are not in the best interest of India's energy security. + Because o
even in the US nuclear deal is stalled because (1) Japan's clout over Nuclear suppliers group (NSG) (2)
companies rely on Japanese companies Mitsubishi and Toshiba to produce nuclear reactors.
Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar says a Cold War political order still persists in India-U.S. relations. Whi
Act east policy overlaps with USA's Recalance to Asia policy. But nuclear deal is still under obstacles.
UN human rights investigator asked UNSC and ICC to take action against violators of human rights in S
neither took action. So now UN investigators willing to share names and evidences with any country th
pursue this matter.
1996: India favour UNGA resolution for banning anti-personnel mines. But 1997: India did not sign the
treaty, even though 80% of Joined the treaty. India was a major manufacturer of undetectable landmin
used them along LoC particularly after Operation Parakram, which was initiated after December 2001
Parliament. However, statistics reveal thousands of Indian armed forces and civilians accidentally inju
of these mines.
Modi to visit Europe in April. wanted an India summit at Brussels, but EU authorities didnot reply in tim
(conspiracy angle- because of the slow progress in Italian marines case.) So angry Modi cancels Bruss
altogather.
West's flawed approach towards ISISI [+] Earlier the death of Saddam Hussein and Muammar Qaddafi
bring peace, but instead led Iraq and Libya into further chaos by splinter groups. [+] "Arab Spring" ha
in republican nations- Egypt, Syria, Libya, Yemen. While, 8 monarchies Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar,
Bahrain, the Emirates, Jordan and Morocco were never destabilized. Because most of them are enem
(Shia), West turns blind eyes to human rights violations in there. [+] Yemenis civilians getting killed in
aerial bombarding, yet West doesn't cry about human rights, like they do in case of Syria. [+] Many 1s
citizens from Australia, US, England et al. began to join ISIS. [+] Now USA planning to talk with Assad
regime change and settle down the nuke issues with Iran.
Operation Raahat to rescue Indian citizens from Yemen. Covered in article under diplomacy section
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) chief Yukiya Amano begins safety inspection of Indian nuke
suggests following measures: [+] separate law to provide independence to the Atomic Energy Regulat
(AERB) by law. UPA Government designed a bill post-Fukushima disaster but bill lapsed in Lok Sabha. [
should devise strategy to increase safety of actinides and other nuclear waste. [+] setup a national p
nuclear safety and radioactive waste management [+] improve internal emergency arrangements du
accidents.; Sidenote: Nuclear Suppliers Group (NSG) conference in June. India wishes to become full m
although obstacle is that we've not signed NPT.
China wants a stable Afghanistan to ensure peace in its own Xinjiang region. China got Pakistani Army
iron out negotiations between the Afghan unity government and the Talibans. Even setup the China-Af
Pakistan trilateral dialogue at heart of Asia conference. Hosted Taliban delegation twice in Beijing. USA
reduced some sanctions from Taliban and in return of this Sino-American valvet glove treatment the A
Talibans have distanced from Al-Qaeda and showed willingness to negotiate. ISI believed to have impr
Mullah Omar to prevent terror attacks. Indian interests: [+] Pakistan may try to block Chabahar port, s
Pakistan remains economic entry point to Afghanistan. [+] Pak. May try to sabotage India's proposed 4
plants in Hajigak. Solution - befriend Iran and Afghani Presidents.
Kashmir ball by ball [+] Union Minister of State for External Affairs Gen. V.K. Singh attends Pakistan N
celebration hosted by Pakistani embassy but feels disgusted with presence Hurriyat leaders, and subs
tweets with hash tags #duty #disgust. [+] J&K CM Sayeed says AFSPA will be gradually removed by ta
in confidence.
Chinese Special Representative Yang Jiechi comes to meet NSA Ajit Doval to discuss border dispute (1
Arunanchal Pradesh border (2) 4000 kms Ladakh border.
Denmark planning to join NATO's missile defense program by installing missile and radars on its warsh
warns if this happens, we'll attack Danish warships.
Lunatic co-pilot crashes Germanys Lufthansa's aeroplane in French Alps. 150 dead.
India Qatar sign agreement on prisoner transfer. Indian prisoners convicted in Qatar can be brought to
serve the remaining part of their sentence in Indian jails, and vice versa for Qatari prisoners in India.
President Obama relaxes norms to get L1B visa meant for corporate executives. This will help in bring
foreign investment and the specialised workers in US
U.N. Secretary-General wanted to give social security benefits to spouses of gay/ LGBT employees wo
United Nations offices. But India, China, Russia, Pak, Saudi et al. opposed this resolution, saying Bank
not consult with member states. However, motion was defeated. and India faced criticism from variou
including USA
Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire is based on Vikas Swarup's "Q&A". Now this gentleman has rep
Akbaruddin as the MEA spokesperson.
During G20 summit @Brisbane, Australia 2014, one of the immigration official mistakenly forwarded W
leaders' passport number, email id etc. to Asian football tournament organizers, thus endangering the
Hindu gone crazier than usual about Sri Lanka [+] Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena gives the
"Field Marshal" to Sarath Fonseka. General Fonseka was instrumental in wiping out LTTE but had fallou
previous President Rajpaksha, so Rajpaksha got him jailed, and banned from contesting elections. But
President Sirisena began to fix it. [+] During LTTE fighting, Sri Lankan Army had taken over Northern T
create high security zones. New President Sirisena gives back those land deeds to original owners. [+
visit to China. Both leader propose triangular dialogue among India, China and Sri Lanka. [+] Former
Prez. Chandrika Kumartunga will head a task force for a reconciliation of Tamils.
Modi2SriLanka: {---Tourism---}[+] Ramayana Trail in Srilanka and Buddhist circuit in India. Festival of I
SriLanka. Cultural centre inaugurated at Jaffna. [+] Visa on arrival for Sri Lanka [+] Air India to run dire
between Delhi and Colombo. {---Finance---} [+] Currency swap agreement between central banks of b
countries {---Disaspora---}[+] >300 Million$ loan to Sri Lankan railways. [+] 20k homes given to refug
Northern SriLanka. [+] India wants "united sri Lanka" but asks them implement 13th Amendment to g
power devolution to Tamil majority provinces in North and East. ; {---Energy---}: [+] Trinco oil farm an
plant with help of Indian Oil. [+] no defense pact though, but Srilanka promises not to dock foreign su
its ports. [+] Sri Lanka has signed its first nuclear agreement with India, but this agreement only aims
safety operations and not energy generation at present.[+] Triconmalee to be developed as regional p
hub.
AIIB basics already covered in old article under diplomacy section. But Hindu gone crazier than usual.
commentary on which new country wants to join it? bottom line is- [+] Australia, Britain, France, Germ
Luxembourg, Singapore, New Zealand, Switzerland et al many erstwhile pro-US parties now interested
dominated IMF-World bank power waning. [+] Earlier Japan was hesitant to join AIIB because itself dom
(HQ Manila), but now Japanese MNCs lobbied and got Government to silent agree to join AIIB by June.
chiefs of IMF and ADB have voiced support for AIIB. [+] U.S. Treasury Sec Jacob Lew met Chinese Prim
(Premiere) Li Kequiang to iron out differences.
China has provides details its one belt one road initiative. It'll have two components (1) Overland Silk
(2) Maritime Silk Road (MSR). Together they'll cover Eurasia from the Pacific coast to the Baltic Sea. Th
geo-economic power from US-EU towards Eurasia, led by China. [+] In next 10 7ears, 4.4 billion peopl
covered and it'll generate trade above 2.5 trillion dollars with help of RCEP. [+] Collectively Silk Road +
counter USA's Asian Pivot + TPP. [+] Sri Lanka will get ~40 million $ from AIIB for this Silk road project
details under old article under diplomacy section.
Lee Kuan Yew: the founding father and first Prime Minister of Singapore (From 1959 to 1990). Died of P
related complications at 91 age. Modi attended his funeral. [+] Broke off with Malaysia to create Singa
(Sanskrit name- Simhapura). Helped Deng Xiaoping rebuild China in Post-Mao era. Shanghai turned to
of East. [+] Lee praised Indira Gandhi and justified emergency, but in Cold war-NAM era, India and Sin
interest could not align. So later Lee became critic that India was not a real country but 32 separate n
arrayed on British rail line- Their ethnic mix, voting patterns and coalition government ensure no decis
on time. Indian politicians and bureaucrats have feudal mindset who see entrepreneurs as sinner for m
profits. [+] Lee warmed up after Narsimha Rao's Look East Policy, sought our military assistance. He c
India a nation of unfulfilled greatness". India-China will reshape world order before end of 21st centur
China won't go war with India because it can win by simply playing by rules of international economy.
social engineering to create a plural nation with four official languages and a housing policy to intermi
of various races. {---Anti-points---} [+] curbs on media and freedom of expression. He justified it unde
values i.e. good of society comes before rights of individuals.[+] nepotism, family members made lot
[+] Singapore City-state model leads to rich economy but income inequality rising.
Visit of Indian defence Minister to Japan. Ignored because mostly same old bol-bachchan.
US Department of Justice updates "hate crimes training manual", FBI asked to track hate crimes again
and Sikhs since 2013.
Modi's 3 nations tour to Canada, France and Germany. Still in process of gathering point, then will upd
excel cell itself
Pakistan and Sri Lanka signed nuclear cooperation agreement.
Operation Raahat to rescue Indian citizens from Yemen. Covered in article under diplomacy section
AIIB full-fledged article already published. Some more points: [+] Iran to become founding member, a
deal [+] US not to join AIIB. China's main motive of running AIIB, BRICS bank, Silk road initiatives etc.
Dollar domination and use its own forex reserve for more productive purpose. At present China has ~3
forex reserve. China built this reserve from its current account surplus (via trade surplus.)[+] China re
these dollars into US treasury bonds. Although these bonds give very low return, but this helps keepin
weak against Dollar. Thus Chinese goods price-competitive in international market. So in a way, China
Cheap credit to finance US's twin deficit (=fiscal deficit +current account deficit.). [+] But post global
crisis, China wants to shift away from this game. So China using its large foreign exchange assets in A
and Silk road initiatives to connect Eurasia. [+] By end of 2015, Renminbi to become an official reserv
by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Collectively all these developments will reduce dollar's glob
domination. [+] Can India follow Chinese path of large forex reserve? Difficult because we are totally o
China- our exports weak and current account has deficit.
Earlier Congress Government had initiated "non-lethal strategy" at India-Bangla border, wherein, BSF
any smugglers or trespassers across border. However, BJP Home minister Rajnath Singh says they don
such policy, and BSF is free to open fire in self-defense. Obviously NGOs don't like it, they launched ca
social media against Home minister Rajnath Singh.
Foreign Secretary S. Jaishankar tells Nepal to write a Constitution with maximum compromise.
USA to give 1000 Hellfire missiles to Pakistan. They can be mounted on attack helicopters, to fight Ter
in North Waziristan and FATA.
Myanmar based Naga rebel group NSCN-K decided to end 14-year ceasefire agreement with the Indian
government. Mainly because NSCN-IM faction has cozied up with Indian Government. Although India s
continue to honor ceasefire from its side.
Iran's E3+3 deal, UNSC P5+1 or Lausanne agreement. Covered in separate article under /diplomacy s
Australian nuke safeguard law requires that importing country must allow inspection. But India doesn'
inspection by anyone except IAEA. When similar tracking and Tagging problem arose in Indo-US nuk
solution was - American inspectors will be allowed within IAEA team.
[+] North Korean Foreign minister visits India for first time and thanks us for food/humanitarian suppo
past calamities. [+] The Lahore High Court has frees 26/11/2008 mastermind Zaki-ur-Rehman Lakhvi.
India criticized it although theHindu not so vocal, because too busy criticizing other things so no space
newspaper.
J&K CM Mufti Mohammad Sayeed first says he'll create separate towns for Kashmiri Pandits, la
In a major boost to the Indian civil aviation sector, more specifically for Air India and Jet Airways, the U
Aviation Association (FAA) has upgraded the safety rating of Indian airlines to category1. This means f
clearance and other technical facilities will be available to Indian aircrafts while entering in USA.
China's Qinghai-Tibet railway ~2000kms, it already links China with the Tibetan capital Lhasa and bey
they plan to extend it further for 540 kms. High-speed rail link between Tibet and Nepal passing throu
under Mt. Everest. It'll complete in 2020. India's strategic / border security interest affected.
2012: Two Italian Marines Massimiliano Latorre and Sergeant Salvatore Girone were aboard a
2013: Obama shook hands with Castro at Nelson Mandelas funeral. 2015: They shake hands again at
Americas in Panama, hoping to restore diplomatic ties after 1961.
[+] David Cameron says he'll support India's UNSC Permanent seat bid. [+] UNSC imposes arms emba
Yemen's Huthi (Shia) rebels.
Afghanistan: growing culture of "toi paal" or wedding crashers i.e. guests who come uninvited to other
wedding to enjoy free food. Given rampant nuisance, now Afghan parliament mulling a law to fix max
"guests" to 700 only.
2010: Non Proliferation Treaty (NPT) reviewed but no progress or consensus. 2015: again, NPT-review @
during April-May. 2015 marks the 100th year of the use of chemical weapons in Ypres, Belgium [+] 70
the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki [+] 20th year of the indefinite extension of the NPT.
Involving state governments into foreign policy making: [+] Andhra CM Chandrababu Naidu to visit Ch
Same way Karnataka, West Bengal, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh and Punjab participated in Hannover I
Fair, Germany to promote make in India. [+] economic ties, once established, are hard to break. If fore
involves stakeholders outside national capital, then it'll lead to deeper economic ties between countrie
Afghanistan President Ashraf Ghani's "unity Government" seems to have more affection for Pakistan in
than for India. Over the years, Afghan were requesting helicopters from India. Finally modi to give them
made Cheetal multirole helicopters, when Afghan president visits India. Chital developed by HAL. It's u
personnel transport, casualty evacuation, reconnaissance and aerial survey, logistic support and rescu
altitude / mountainous regions. They will not contain weapons. (Because Modi doesn't want to annoy C
giving Direct military aid to Afghans.)
Chinese President Xi (not 11th) Jinping visits Pakistan.[+] will invest $ 46 billion. Out of that [+] 11 bill
China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)- with rail, road and pipelines. [+] This will cover 3,000 km fr
western city of Kashgar to the Pakistani port of Gwadar. Gwadar port owned by a Chinese public comp
2013. [+] This will improve the economy of both Pak. And Chinese region of Xinjiang = less recruits fo
[+] renewable energy and 50 other agreements. [+] Jingping to get Nishane Pakistan award.
Egyptian President Mohamed Morsy sent to 20 years in prison for abuses against protesters during 20
Morsy was country 's first elected president. Amnesty Amnesty International criticises the verdict as
justice.
Obama removes Cuba from list of states that sponsor terrorism. This will help normalising bilateral rel
China's white paper on Tibet says following: [+] over the years the Dalai Lama advocated the middle
[+] But Lama wishes to create State within state, and ultimately independence of Tibet from China. Th
acceptable to chinese authorities.
During British Raj, All India radio Did not broadcast in German and Japanese language. Even today, wh
broadcasts in 27 languages to the world, German and Japanese still not covered. Another problem is la
manpower. [+] In a TIME magazine article, Obama calls Modi as "India's reformer in Chief". Modi thank
[+] China planning to give 8 diesel electric submarines to pak. As such nothin to worry because we ca
20 more submarines by then, BUT if if China cooperates with Pakistan to turn the submarines into plat
second nuclear-strike capability, like Israel has done, then it'll be dangerous for India.
So far, USA has used "Carrot" approach to motivate Pakistani authorities to take action against terroris
has failed. Better use the "sticks" approach, for example [+] STONE Software: Shaping Terrorist Organ
Network Efficacy. USA's Maryland university Has developed this software, to predict if "X" terrorist lead
then who'll be the next Leader in the hierarchy. So far, STONE Prediction turned out to be correct for H
Hezbollah, al-Qaeda and LeT in 80% cases. [+] perhaps CIA should use it to eliminate key terrorist lea
Additionally, USA should ban entry of ISI officials' children / put Financial sanctions on them.
Home ministry allows Pak Minorities (Hindu, Sikhs etc.) to file long-term visa applications online. Expe
is a ploy to grant citizenship to refugees from Pakistan.
Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's visit to India during April Week4.
Pakistan and Russia to hold the first-ever joint military exercise. [+] Ferry loaded with ~700 illegal mig
Africa, capsized in Mediterranean sea near Italy while they were trying to enter EU. Human trafficking
operates from the failed state of Libya. Business worth ~4000 crore rupees, over 30k die each year.
Peter Schweizer's new book Clinton Cash claims during 2008, then SP leader Amar Singh gave and s
1-5 million US dollars to Clinton foundation. And in return, Hilary Clinton lobbied for Indo-US nuclear d
words, Amar Singh may have acted as conduit.
Visit of Afghanistan Pres. Dr. Ashraf Ghani to India. [+] we gave Cheetal helicopters (Without attack fe
he say ISIS bigger threat than other terrorist organisations [+] Despite Afghanistan Pakistan Transit an
Agreement (APTTA-2011), Pakistan does not allow Afghani trucks to reach India, because India is not p
agreement. [+] Ghani threatens blocking Paki trucks moving towards Cenrtal Asia, if problem not sorte
ahead for India- use Chabahar port and Delaram highway to access Afghanistan.
Pak Terrorism: 10 attackers given life imprisonment for attacking Nobel peacewinner teenage activist
Yousafzai in 2012. Although mastermind is yet to be arrested. [+] Indonesia planning to execute foreig
caught smuggling narcotic drugs in its territory. Australia withdraws Ambassador in protests.
1997: Security partnership agreement between Japan and USA. 2015: agreement is updated Provision
collective defence i.e. Japanese forces can operate in any part of world, to defend US forces (even if Ja
defense interests are not threatened. e.g. some anti-piracy/anti-terror operation in middle east) [+] US
acknowledge the disputed Senkaku islands belong to Japan and not to China. (Chinese call'em Diaoyu
[+] Japan calls this "proactive pacifism and justifies it given Chinas rising military and economic mig
[+] China is opposed- quoting History that Japanese military would destabilise the Asia-Pacific region,
done in Imperial era.
IBSA: India, Brazil and South Africa- is the trilateral grouping of three economic giants from Asia, Latin
and Africa. And all 3 worried about Chinese influence in the respective regions. [+] IBSA members see
permanent seat in UNSC. But over the years with growing importance of BRICS, the importance of IBS
decline. BRICS even considers itself a counterpoint to G7 nations. <--Problem-->: [+] India is becomin
of pretty much all international clubs but does not have time to extract maximum output from anyone
has become a paper tiger, it failed to prevent Crimea, Syria, ISIS, Yemen crisis. So, IBSA nations should
obsession of becoming permanent members of UNSC. [+] IBSA Should have its own maritime doctrine
Indian Ocean and South Atlantic Ocean.
Sri Lanka adopts 19th Amendment. Features: [+] Term limits on President: 5 years x 2 terms. Earlier it
years [+] Parliament's term reduced from 6 years to 5 [+] Pres's executive powers are reduced, with
dissolving parliament [+] Provisions for a separate Constitutional Council with MP and nonpolitical me
independence of Supreme Court [+] President remains the head of Cabinet. But, he'll appoint Minister
advice of Prime Minister. [+] PM can determine the size of Cabinet, through referendum. [+] Independ
service commission. Experts believe it will help getting minority Tamils get jobs in Government, unless
nakal-mafia leak papers on whatsapp [+] Current PresidentMaithripala Sirisenaand Prime MinisterRa
Wickremesinghe.
(1) China planning to integrate Mongolia's "Steepe road" and Russia's "transcontinental railway plan"
China-Mongolia-Russia (CMR) economic corridor. (2) Same way, China plans to Integrate India's Spice
Mausam projects within Bangladesh-ChinaIndia-Myanmar (BCIM). (3) China developing China Pak Ec
corridor (CPEC). And finally 1+2+3 = CMR + BCIM + CPEC will be integrated in the Maritime Silk Road
initiative.
Water diplomacy: [+] 1967 Arab Israel war: Major objective of Israel= to capture all the fresh water re
the region [+] rivers originating from China flow through Indochina, South Asia and Kazakhstan and Ru
But China is also the worlds leading dam-builder and the largest producer of hydropower.[+] Chinas
Gorges Dam generates 22.5 gigawatts power. This is 3.5x time more than the second best project in w
Grand Coulee project in the U.S. [+] China also helps other nations build dams, under its 'soft diploma
exports'. [+] but China never shares water with anyone. At max, just shares hydraulic data for flood
forecast/disaster Management. But even for that datasharing, China asks money from recipient countr
China has >85,000 dams. But it also led to death of >2.5 lakhs and displacement of millions. [+] 20 S
africa nations have sold their fertile land to foreign firms, but those firms are extracting groundwater f
purpose. [+] such water crisis even lead to political upheaval in Bolivia (1999) and Madagascar (2009
Convention on the Laws of the Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses. But this law is no
enforced
SriLanka planning: [+] to have its own RTI-right to information act. [+] new election system that woul
features of the First Past The Post system and proportional representation (PR). Currently Sri Lanka is f
proportional representation system.
Modi thinking about giving e-visa facility to Chinese nationals- to attract more tourists and investment
Actress Angelina Jolie is the special envoy for the U.N. on refugee issues. She has criticized UN Securit
for mishandling Syrian refugee problem.
1995: Iran-Pakistan-India (IPI) peace pipeline talks started. 2009: India dropped out of the project unde
pressure. 2015: Now Iran talking with energy pipeline to China via Gwadar port to China Pakistan Econ
Corridor (CPEC).
1955: Bandung Conference @Indonesia. To promote economic and cultural cooperation among African
nations. China, Japan and India played key role in the summit. 2015: Asian African Conference held at
place in Indonesia. India's statement- we've launch "Act East" and "Renew Africa Policy" to focus on bo
Africa.
Modi opens account in Weibo. Weibo is Chinese quivalent of Twitter[+] US to Passenger Ferry service w
which was set down after Cuban Revolution in the early 60s. [+] Irans President Hassan Rouhani advi
enforcement to stay away from enforcing Islam in the territory.
Pranab Visit to Russia to commemorate 70 years of end of WW2. Hindu gone crazier than usual, runni
report recycling the same sentences as if nothing else to report. [+] US and EU leaders had attended
60th commemoration but not attending this one to protest against Russias annexation of Crimea from
2014. [+] 25 nations including BRICS, will participate though. India participating because Russia too h
supported us in our 'difficult' times.[+] Military parade on 9th May. Russia to display latest T-14 Armat
India's Nine Grenadiers to participate in parade, with Russia's Red Army and Chinas People's Liberatio
John Kerry becomes first U.S. Secretary of State to visit Sri Lanka after end of LTTE in 2009. He urges S
cooperate with UN to keep theHindu in good humor [+] Maldives after arrest of ex-pres. Nasheed. Ken
president Kenyatta accused of electoral violance, yet ICC dropped case against him and Now Kerry me
well. [+] Kerry surprise visit to Somalia. [+] seems Kerry is on world vacation tour like Pratibha before
was over. Only agony is Hindu gone crazy covering this topic.
Dynasty politics is not confined to India alone. Even in USA, ~20 years the Presidential post is held by
Bush families. [+] Professional politicians like George Bush, Hilary Clinton, David Cameron, Ed Miliban
surrounded by political professionals: spin doctors, image-makers and polling experts- but These "coa
try to make the candidates electorally appealing but often junta finds their speeches Hollow and phon
Therefore, global economic downturn has been accompanied by a global democratic downturn.
Modi's visit to China, South Korea and Mongolia in May week2. He'll visit Russia twice in 2015: BRICS
@July and Bilateral India-Russia Summit in November.
French President Francois Hollande becomes first Western head of state to attend GCC summit @Riyad
to supply 24 Rafale jets to Qatar for 7 billion $.
MEA refuses to give RTI information on cost of Obama visit in January 2015, Saying it will affect sovere
between two nations, hence immune from Public disclosure under Section 8(1)(a) of the RTI Act 2005
Al-Qaeda in the Indian Subcontinent (AQIS). They've released a video clip and named Modi in it. so int
tightened surveillance.
Column1
WANA
SAARC
China
China
SAARC
Security
Russia
China
Pak
Security
Pak
US
China
WANA
SAARC
WANA
Banglade
sh
WANA
WANA
Pak
China
Banglade
sh
Banglade
sh
ASEAN+
Jholachha
p NGOs
China
ISIS+
China
China
China
Pak
Bodies
US
China
Security
Security
us
Russia
WANA
Russia
SAARC
us
China
Pak
Security
Security
China
ASEAN+
us
Pak
Security
SAARC
Security
Security
Security
Pak
Security
WANA
Security
Diaspora
AIIB
Iran
r retracts his statement. Pro: It won't be an exclusive area for Kashmiri Pandits, it will be composite tow
p Enrica Lexi, they killed 2 Indian fishermen mistaking them for pirates. Massimiliano Latorre given thir
afghan
China
China
will be composite townships open to all other communities as well.[+] Anti: It'll create a State within a
ano Latorre given third furlough by SC, to return to Italy after brain stroke.
ate a State within a State, ghettoisation. More rift between muslims and pandits instead of reconciliati
stead of reconciliation. Scene will be similar to Palestine.
Date Topiclist
12/1/2014 done
12/2/2014 done
12/3/2014 done
12/4/2014 done
12/5/2014 done
12/6/2014 done
12/7/2014 done
12/8/2014 done
12/9/2014 done
12/10/2014 done
12/11/2014 done
12/12/2014 done
12/13/2014 done
12/14/2014 done
12/15/2014 done
12/16/2014 done
12/17/2014 done
12/18/2014 done
12/19/2014 done
12/20/2014 done
12/21/2014 done
12/22/2014 done
12/23/2014 done
12/24/2014 done
12/25/2014 done
12/26/2014 done
12/27/2014 done
12/28/2014 done
12/29/2014 done
12/30/2014 done
12/31/2014 done
1/1/2015 done
1/2/2015 done
1/3/2015 done
1/4/2015 done
1/5/2015 done
1/6/2015 done
1/7/2015 done
1/8/2015 done
1/9/2015 done
1/10/2015 done
1/11/2015 done
1/12/2015 done
1/13/2015 done
1/14/2015 done
1/15/2015 done
1/16/2015 done
1/17/2015 done
1/18/2015 done
1/19/2015 done
1/20/2015 done
1/21/2015 done
1/22/2015 done
1/23/2015 done
1/24/2015 done
1/25/2015 done
1/26/2015 done
1/27/2015 done
1/28/2015 done
1/29/2015 done
1/30/2015 done
1/31/2015 done
2/1/2015 done
2/2/2015 done
2/3/2015 done
2/4/2015 done
2/5/2015 done
2/6/2015 done
2/7/2015 done
2/8/2015 done
2/9/2015 done
2/10/2015 done
2/11/2015 done
2/12/2015 done
2/13/2015 done
2/14/2015 done
2/15/2015 done
2/16/2015 done
2/17/2015 done
2/18/2015 done
2/19/2015 done
2/20/2015 done
2/21/2015 done
2/22/2015 done
2/23/2015 done
2/24/2015 done
2/25/2015 done
2/26/2015 done
2/27/2015 done
2/28/2015 done
3/1/2015 done
3/2/2015 done
3/3/2015 done
3/4/2015 done
3/5/2015 done
3/6/2015 done
3/7/2015 done
3/8/2015 done
3/9/2015 done
3/10/2015 done
3/11/2015 done
3/12/2015 done
3/13/2015 done
3/14/2015 done
3/15/2015 done
3/16/2015 done
3/17/2015 done
3/18/2015 done
3/19/2015 done
3/20/2015 done
3/21/2015 done
3/22/2015 done
3/23/2015 done
3/24/2015 done
3/25/2015 done
3/26/2015 done
3/27/2015 done
3/28/2015 done
3/29/2015 done
3/30/2015 done
3/31/2015 done
4/1/2015 done
4/2/2015 done
4/3/2015 done
4/4/2015 done
4/5/2015 done
4/6/2015 done
4/7/2015 done
4/8/2015 done
4/9/2015 done
4/10/2015 done
4/11/2015 done
4/12/2015 done
4/13/2015 done
4/14/2015 done
4/15/2015 done
4/16/2015 done
4/17/2015 done
4/18/2015 done
4/19/2015 done
4/20/2015 done
4/21/2015 done
4/22/2015 done
4/23/2015 done
4/24/2015 done
4/25/2015 done
4/26/2015 done
4/27/2015 done
4/28/2015 done
4/29/2015 done
4/30/2015 done
5/1/2015 done
5/2/2015 done
5/3/2015 done
5/4/2015 done
5/5/2015 done
5/6/2015 done
5/7/2015 done
5/8/2015 done

Current Topiclist Mrunal DecW1 MayW1

Diunggah oleh

Informasi Dokumen

Judul Asli

Hak Cipta

Format Tersedia

Bagikan dokumen Ini

Bagikan atau Tanam Dokumen

Opsi Berbagi

Apakah menurut Anda dokumen ini bermanfaat?

Apakah konten ini tidak pantas?

Hak Cipta:

Format Tersedia

Current Topiclist Mrunal DecW1 MayW1

Diunggah oleh

Hak Cipta:

Format Tersedia

Month Utility

14_12_DecW1 00P only

15_02_FebW1 00P only

15_02_FebW2 00P only

15_02_FebW4 00P only

15_03_MarW1 00P only

15_03_MarW2 00P only

15_03_MarW2 00P only

15_03_MarW2 00P only

15_03_MarW2 00P only

15_03_MarW3 00P only

15_03_MarW3 00P only

15_03_MarW4 00P only

15_03_MarW4 00P only

15_03_MarW4 00P only

15_04_AprW3 00P only

15_04_AprW3 00P only

15_04_AprW3 00P only

15_04_AprW3 00P only

15_04_AprW4 00P only

15_04_AprW4 00P only

15_05_MayW1 00P only

15_05_MayW1 00P only

15_05_MayW1 00P only

14_12_DecW1 IT/electronics 0P+M

14_12_DecW1 Medical z_Ignored

14_12_DecW2 Medical OLF

14_12_DecW2 Defense 00P only

14_12_DecW2 IT/electronics OLF

14_12_DecW2 IT/electronics OLF

14_12_DecW2 Medical OLF

14_12_DecW2 IT/electronics OLF

14_12_DecW2 Medical OLF

14_12_DecW2 Space-tech OLF

14_12_DecW3 IT/electronics OLF

14_12_DecW3 Defense OLF

14_12_DecW4 Robotics OLF

14_12_DecW4 IT/electronics 0P+M

14_12_DecW4 IT/electronics 0P+M

14_12_DecW4 IT/electronics z_Ignored

14_12_DecW4 Medical OLF

14_12_DecW4 IT/electronics 0P+M

14_12_DecW4 IT/electronics OLF

14_12_DecW4 IT/electronics 0P+M

15_01_JanW1 Medical 0P+M

15_01_JanW1 Defense OLF

15_01_JanW1 Medical OLF

15_01_JanW1 IT/electronics OLF

15_01_JanW1 Medical OLF

15_01_JanW1 Sci-Tech z_Ignored

15_01_JanW1 IT/electronics z_Ignored

15_01_JanW1 Space-tech 00P only

15_01_JanW1 Space-tech z_Ignored

15_01_JanW1 Medical OLF

15_01_JanW2 Medical z_Ignored

15_01_JanW2 Medical OLF

15_01_JanW2 IT/electronics OLF

15_01_JanW2 IT/electronics OLF

15_01_JanW2 Medical OLF

15_01_JanW2 IT/electronics OLF

15_01_JanW3 IT/electronics 00P only

15_01_JanW3 Medical z_Ignored

15_01_JanW3 IT/electronics z_Ignored