(Bitul - In) GK Today August 2018

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Current Affairs [PDF] - August 1-15, 2018
ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
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Contents
......................... .. . ....... ....... ...............................................................
Current Affairs News Headlines: August 1 to 15, 2018 ........................................................................................................................................... 3
August 1, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 13
August 2, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 18
August 3, 2018 ................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 21
August 4, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 25
August 6, 2018 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 28
August 7, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 33
August 8, 2018 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 37
August 9, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................... 41
August 10, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 45
August 11, 2018 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 50
August 13, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 53
August 14, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 57
August 15, 2018 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 61
Multiple Choice Questions .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 66
© 2018 GKToday | All Rights Reserved | https://www.gktoday.in 2
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Current Affairs News Headlines: August 1 to 15, 2018

Current Affairs – News Headlines: August 1, 2018
India
UIDAI advises people to refrain from posting their Aadhaar numbers on the internet and social
media.
Kangana Ranaut launches Chhattisgarh government’s smartphone distribution scheme ‘Mobile
Tihar’ under the Sanchar Kranti Yojna (SKY) in Raipur
Former West Bengal Governor Gopalkrishna Gandhi wins 2018 Rajiv Gandhi Sadbhavna Award
MP govt to observe Independence Day eve as Shahid Samman Divas to honour martyrs
Veteran Telugu film producer K. Raghava dies in Hyderabad at 105
“The Walled City of Jaipur” is the next proposed site from India for UNESCO World Heritage
recognition
Economy & Corporate
A Bill to amend the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016, allowing home buyers to be treated
as financial creditors, passed in the Lok Sabha
India’s budgetary fiscal deficit touches 68.7% of the target in 2018-19 in June-end
US eases export controls for high-tech product sales to India by designating it as a Strategic Trade
Authorization-1 (STA-1) country ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
iBall launches upgraded “Aasaan 4” feature phone targeted at senior citizens for Rs 3,499
World
The first ‘Nepal-India Think Tank’ Summit to foster greater collaboration and knowledge-sharing
among the think tanks of the two countries held in Kathmandu
BRICS Film Festival in Durban (South Africa): “Newton” (Hindi) wins Best Film award, Bhanita Das
wins Best Actress award for Assamese film “Village Rockstars”
Sports
Asian Nations Cup Chess tournament starts in Hamadan, Iran
India
Arunachal Pradesh’s first medical college and hospital, the Tomo Riba Institute of Health and
Medical Sciences (TRIHMS), starts its maiden academic session
Javed Akhtar awarded Delhi govt’s Hindi Sahitya Academy Samman
Malayalam Ghazal singer Umbayee dies in Kochi at 68
Monterary Policy Review
RBI hikes repo rate by 25 basis points to 6.50%, Reverse repo rate raised by similar proportion to
6.25%
Five members of Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) — Chetan Ghate, Pami Dua, Michael Debabrata
Patra, Viral V Acharya and Urjit R Patel voted in favour of the decision while Ravindra H Dholakia
voted against
Marginal standing facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate hiked to 6.75%
CRR and SLR remain unchanged at 4% and 19.5% respectively
RBI projects 4.6% CPI inflation in 2nd quarter of 2018-19 and 4.8% in 2nd half of 2018-19
RBI projects real GDP growth in 2018-19 at 7.4% as against 6.6% in 2017-18
Economy & Corporate
BSE launches ‘Ask Motabhai’, an AI-based ‘chatbot’, to provide on-demand information from its
website
Ministry of Culture launches ‘Seva Bhoj Yojna’ scheme to reimburse central share of CGST and IGST
food offered by religious and charitable institutions
Andhra Pradesh, Kerala, Maharashtra, Punjab and Rajasthan are the ‘front runner’ states in the
inaugural edition of the ‘Energy Efficiency Preparedness Index 2018’ launched by Union Power
Ministry
Industrialists Kumar Mangalam Birla and Y C Deveshwar appointed as non-official independent
directors in Air India
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Lok, Sabha passes bill to amend the law for speedy disposal of commercial disputes and seeking to
reduce the pecuniary jurisdiction of commercial courts from Rs 1 crore to Rs 3 lakh
SC orders attachment of bank accounts, movable properties of real estate company Amrapali Group
for defrauding investors
Japanese car company Nissan launches ‘Roots of Design’ programme in Chennai aimed at
encouraging Indian students to take up careers in arts, design and creativity
World
Indian Army participates in the 91st anniversary of foundation of China’s People’s Liberation Army
(PLA) at Nathu La in Sikkim
Walmart tops Fortune 500 list of the world’s biggest corporations by revenue; Indian Oil (ranked
137th globally) is the biggest in India
Denmark’s ban on the Islamic full-face veil in public spaces comes into force
Mathematicians Akshay Venkatesh, Caucher Birkar, Peter Scholze and Alessio Figalli announced as
winners of Fields medal
World’s first intertidal art gallery named Coralarium opens in Maldives
Zimbabwe: Ruling ZANU-PF party wins most seats in National Assembly – the country’s parliament
Sports
Tata Motors becomes Principal Sponsor of Indian
ramkishan gugulotu wrestling |for next 3 years
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
Indian Olympic Association issues ‘No Needle Policy’ guidelines for Indian contingent at 2018 Asian
Games
Hosts Colombia win football gold medal at 23rd Central American and Caribbean Games
India
Lok Sabha unanimously passes a constitutional amendment to give statutory status to the National
Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)
Andhra Pradesh Govt. launches “Mukhyamantri Yuva Nestam” Rs. 1000 per month unemployment
allowance scheme
DRDO conducts successful test of Ballistic Missile Interceptor Advanced Area Defence (AAD) in
Odisha
Kadaknath chicken meat from Jhabua district of MP gets Geographical Indication (GI) tag
141st birth anniversary of Pingali Venkayya, the designer of Indian National Flag, observed
Facebook announces partnership with Chennai-based Asian School of Journalism (ACJ) to curb the
spread of fake news and ensure high-quality journalism in India
Jalees Sherwani, who penned lyrics for films like “Dabangg”, “Wanted” and “Tere Naam”, dies in
Mumbai at 70
Former governor of Assam and ex-Union minister Bhishma Narain Singh of Congress dies in Noida
at 85
Economy & Corporate
Discount on digital payment at petrol pumps cut to 0.25% from 0.75%
NITI Aayog launches a global mobility hackathon “Move Hack” to crowdsource future mobility
solutions for India
DIPP starts ‘Integrate to Innovate’ programme for startups in energy sector
HDFC Bank raises Rs 2,775 crore by issuing over 1.28 crore shares through qualified institutions
placement (QIP)
National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) tells SC it is ready to complete projects of
embattled realtor Amrapali group of companies
FICCI Ladies Organisation launches mobile app “WOW” (Wellness of Women) to create awareness on
preventive healthcare
BlackBerry launches “Evolve” and “Evolve X” smartphones for Rs 24,990 and Rs 34,990, respectively
World
US Congress passes bill to slash security-related aid to Pakistan to USD 150 million per year
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Indian among 3 foreigners working as chefs for French food services company Sodexo abducted and
killed in Kabul
US Congress passé a defence spending bill that seeks to provide waivers to America’s strategic
partners like India from sanctions over Russia
Sports
BWF Badminton World Championships in China: Saina Nehwal and PV Sindhu enter women’s
singles quarterfinals
India
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill 2018 introduced
in the Lok Sabha. Will nullify Supreme Court’s March order which stated that immediate arrest of an
accused under the SC/ST Act is not mandatory
Himachal Pradesh CM Jai Ram Thakur launches ‘shaur nahin’ (no noise) mobile application in
Shimla
Mosquito Terminator on Wheels, a special train to prevent mosquito breeding along the railway
tracks in Delhi, flagged off
Lok Sabha passes bill to establish a National Sports University in Manipur
Centre withdraws its proposal of creating a |social
ramkishan gugulotu media hub| to monitor social media
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Tourism Ministry to organise “Paryatan Parv” across the country from September 16 to 27
Economy & Corporate
India’s foreign exchange reserves decline by $950.9 million to $404.192 billion in the week to July 27
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) reaches 5 crore LPG connections
Indian Council of Food and Agriculture (ICFA) institutes $100000 award to recognise outstanding
individuals or institutions in the field of agriculture
Tech Mahindra inks MoU with Telangana to launch India’s first Blockchain district
World
Zimbabwe: Emmerson Mnangagwa of ruling ZANU-PF party wins presidential election
India elected as the President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD)
AIBD is a regional inter-governmental organisation established in 1977 under the auspices of
UNESCO
AIBD is hosted by Malaysia and its secretariat is located in Kuala Lumpur
Facebook launches “Digital Literacy Library” to enable young people to safely enjoy online
technology
Actresses Kathy Bates and Kristen Bell to receive Women Making History Awards in Los Angeles in
September
Sports
Rahil Gangjee wins USD 75000 Louis Philippe Cup golf tournament in Bengaluru
Indian football captain Sunil Chhetri named an ‘Asian Icon’ by the Asian Football Confederation
(AFC)
BWF World Championships in China: PV Sindhu enters semifinals, Saina Nehwal exits
Current Affairs – NEWS HEADLINES: August 5, 2018
India
Appointment of Uttarakhand HC CJ K.M. Joseph, Madras HC CJ Indira Banerjee and Orissa HC CJ
Vineet Saran to the Supreme Court approved by President
Filmmaker Devkanya Lotheta’s film “Behind the Bars” wins first prize under 2018 Short Film Award
Scheme of NHRC
Secondary Data Centre of National Data Repository (NDR) inaugurated in Bhubaneswar
CM Vasundhara Raje’s ‘Rajasthan Gaurav Yatra’ flagged off from Rajsamand district
Sindhu Sharma becomes first woman judge of the Jammu and Kashmir HC, 90 years after its
establishment
Mughalsarai railway station becomes Deen Dayal Upadhyay Junction from August 5
Uttarakhand HC declares govt rule denying maternity leave for third child unconstitutional
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Delhi HC quashes its March 2017 notification revising minimum wages for workers in Delhi
A 10 kg rotary drone co-developed by HAL and IIT-Kanpur test flown in Bengaluru
Economy & Corporate
–Customers To Get Cashbacks For Making Digital Payments Through Rupay Debit Card, BHIM, Aadhaar, UPI And
USSD: GST Council
Nikkei India Services Business Activity Index rose from 52.6 in June to 54.2 in July
Adani Group emerges as the biggest winner of gas retailing licences, winning rights to sell CNG in 11
cities
15th India International Gold Convention being held in Kochi from August 3 to 5
Delhi tops NCAER’s 2018 State Investment Potential Index; Tamil Nadu 2nd, Gujarat 3rd
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles accuses Mahindra & Mahindra (M&M) of Jeep design infringement
World
US designates India as a Strategic Trade Authorization-1 (STA-1) country, paving the way for export
of high-tech products
Egypt concludes “Eagle Response 2018” joint naval exercises in the Red Sea with the US, UAE and
Saudi Arabia
China announces retaliatory tariffs on $60 billion worth of US goods ranging from LNG to aircrafts
Apple becomes first American company to cross 1 trillion USD in market capitalisation
Sports
England (287 & 180) beat India (274 and 162) by 31 runs in first test at Edgbaston, Birmingham; Sam
Curran named Player Of The Match
Asian Nations Cup Chess in Hamadan (Iran): Indian Men’s team wins silver, Women’s team wins
bronze. Iran Green win Men’s gold while China won Women’s gold
Grandmaster Vaibhav Suri wins Biel Masters Chess tournament in Switzerland
India
Bihar CM Nitish Kumar launches ‘Mukhyamantri Kanya Utthan Yojana’ which promises to provide
Rs 54,100 from the birth of a girl child till she graduates
Himachal CM Jai Ram Thakur participates in concluding ceremony of 8-day long international
Minjar fair in Chamba
Five-day India Tobacco Control Leadership Programme will be held in Goa from August 6 to 10
approved 122 new research projects under Impacting Research Innovation and Technology
(IMPRINT) scheme: HRD Minister
Economy & Corporate
The Fugitive Economic Offenders’ Act, 2018, gets President’s assent
World
Sushma Swaraj pays floral tributes to India’s 2nd PM Lal Bahadur Shastri at his memorial in Uzbek
capital Tashkent
Russia appoints US actor Steven Seagal as its special representative on Russian-American
Humanitarian Ties
3 killed as magnitude 7 earthquake rocks Indonesia’s Lombok Island
K. unveils new organ donation plan to address shortages of organs within Indian-origin
communities in the country
Sports
India’s Gaganjeet Bhullar wins Fiji International golf tournament
Badminton World Championships in China: Japan’s Kento Momota (men’s) and Spain’s Carolina
Martin (women’s) win Singles titles
Colombia’s Eleider Alvarez defeats Russia’s Sergey Kovalev to win World Boxing Organization light
heavyweight title in New Jersey
Gaurav Gill and co-driver Musa Sherif of Team Mahindra win the MRF Rally of Coimbatore
India
President inaugurates the ‘Festival on Democracy’ to mark conclusion Kerala Legislative Assembly’s
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diamond jubilee celebrations in Thiruvananthapuram

Parliament passes a bill prescribing death penalty to those convicted of raping girls below the age of
12 years
Parliament passes a bill to provide constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward
Classes (NCBC)
A bill to overturn a Supreme Court order concerning certain safeguards against arrest under the
SC/ST law unanimously passed by the Lok Sabha
A bill seeking to empower district magistrates to pass orders for adoption of children introduced in
the Lok Sabha
SC notified guidelines for according ‘senior’ designation to lawyers, constitutes 5-member
permanent committee headed by CJI to shortlist the candidates
Delhi Assembly passes a resolution to create a Delhi Public Service Commission
Armies of India and Thailand start 2-week long military exercise ‘Maitree’ in Thailand
Official trailer, music and poster of Bollywood film “Halkaa” under the aegis of the Swachh Bharat
Mission (Urban), launched in New Delhi
R K Dhawan, former Union Minister and Indira Gandhi’s personal secretary, from 1962 to 1984, dies
in New Delhi at 81 ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Kannada film producer and writer M. Bhaktavatsala dies in Bengaluru
Economy & Corporate
HDFC Asset Management Company debuts at the bourses, its shares surge 65% against the issue
price of Rs 1,100
Escorts group Chairman Rajan Nanda dies in New Delhi at 76
AP CM unveils the world’s first-ever high energy storage device made by Bharat Energy Storage
Technology (BEST) in Amaravati
HUL to acquire ‘Adityaa Milk’ ice cream and frozen desserts business
World
Saudi Arabia expels Ambassador of Canada after Ottawa’s criticism of human-rights violations in
the Islamic Kingdom
China successfully tests first hypersonic aircraft Xingkong-2 (Starry Sky-2) that can carry nuclear
warheads
French celebrity chef Joel Robuchon, who is credited with winning the most Michelin stars in the
world, dies at 73
Ramon Laguarta to replace Indra Nooyi as CEO of PepsiCo
Japan marks 73rd anniversary of atomic attack on Hiroshima on August 6
Hollywood actor Robert Redford announces retirement from acting, “The Old Man & The Gun”
would be his last film
Sports
Russia’s Svetlana Kuznetsova wins women’s singles title at WTA Washington Open tennis
Germany’s Alexander Zverev wins men’s singles title at ATP Washington Open tennis
US golfer Justin Thomas wins WGC-Bridgestone Invitational at Akron (USA)
Defending champion The Netherlands beats Ireland in final 6-0 to win Women’s Hockey World Cup
in London
Ducati driver Andrea Dovizioso wins Czech MotoGP in Brno
Sports Minister launches Rugby World Cup 2019 Trophy Tour in India, welcoming the Webb Ellis
Cup to New Delhi
India
Parliament passes Requisitioning and Acquisition of Immovable Property (Amendment) Bill. The Bill
amends regulations governing the compensation payable for acquisition of immovable property by
the Centre for defence and security purposes
Delhi govt. to increase the MLA Local Area Development (LAD) fund from Rs 4 crore to 10 crore
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annually
Reang tribal refugees to be repatriated from Tripura to Mizoram
Mizoram Institute of Medical Education and Research (MIMER), the state’s first medical college,
inaugurated near Aizawl by CM Lal Thanhawla
Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) President and former Tamil Nadu CM M. Karunanidhi passes
away in Chennai at 94
J&K: Four Army personnel martyred, two terrorists killed as security forces foil infiltration bid in
Bandipora district
Economy & Corporate
The government withdraws the Financial Resolution and Deposit Insurance (FRDI) Bill from the Lok
Sabha
14% growth in foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) in India in 2017 as compared to 2016
Total foreign exchange earnings (FEEs) accrued through tourism in 2017 at ₹1,77,874 crore
National Handloom Day celebrated on August 7
World
The United States re-imposes a wave of tough, unilateral sanctions against Iran
Google releases its latest version of Android Operating System — Android 9 Pie
Sports ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
India’s women’s hockey team ranked 9th in world rankings announced by International Hockey
Federation (FIH), The Netherlands remain No: 1
India
Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve becomes 11th Biosphere Reserve from India to be included in
the World Network of Biosphere Reserves
SC to constitute a committee under the chairmanship of its retired judge to look into problems in
jails, including overcrowding, and suggest measures to deal with it
Delhi High Court decriminalises begging in the national capital
Madras High Court allows the burial of DMK chief M Karunanidhi on the Marina Beach in Chennai
All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) under the AYUSH Ministry signs MoU with IIT, Delhi to boost
research in traditional medicine and streamline hospital care facilities in the country
Water Resources Ministry announced names of 3 winners for their videos on water conservation
under the ‘Video Bano, Puraskar Pao’ initiative
Kerala-based media group Mathrubhumi launches its ‘Mathrubhumi Media School’ in Kochi
Economy & Corporate
Mobile app Niryat Mitra, developed by FIEO, launched by Commerce & Industry Minister Suresh
Prabhu
Centre appoints Swadeshi Jagaran Manch co-convenor Swaminathan Gurumurthy and
businessman Satish Kashinath Marathe as part-time, non-official directors on the Central Board of
the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
RBI to pay Rs 50,000 crore as dividend to government in line with the Union Budget provisions
SBI launches Multi Option Payment Acceptance Device (MOPAD) for digital convenience of
customers and merchants
NITI Aayog enters into 3-year partnership with CII to develop vision and action agenda for the
industry to contribute towards sustainable development goals (SDGs)
Google partners with 91springboard to mentor and empower entrepreneurs, especially women
World
Pakistan and Russia sign agreement to allow Pakistani troops to receive training at Russian military
training institutes
An 8th-century stone sculpture of Goddess Durga and a 3rd century limestone sculpture will be
returned to India by the Metropolitan Museum of Art of US
Chinese director Zhang Yimou will be honoured with the lifetime achievement award — the Jaeger-
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LeCoultre Glory prize — at the Venice International Film Festival in September

Sports
Former 400m hurdles world champion Nicholas Bett of Kenya dies in accident at the age of 28
India
NDA candidate Harivansh of JD(U) elected Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
76th anniversary of ‘Quit India Movement’ observed on August 9
A bill to extend the facility of ‘proxy voting’ to NRIs, on the lines of service voters, passed by the Lok
Sabha
Parliament passes Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment
Bill, 2018. The Bill seeks to overturn a Supreme Court order that struck down the provision for
immediate arrest of the accused booked under the Act
A bill to replace the Central Council of Homoeopathy (CCH) with a board of governors and aimed at
bringing accountability and quality in homeopathy education, passed by Parliament
Cabinet approves raising of 4 new battalions of NDRF which will be based in J&K, Himachal Pradesh,
Uttarakhand and NCR
A bill to reduce the tenure of the NHRC chairperson from 5 years to 3 and to appoint any retired
judge of the Supreme Court, instead of gugulotu
ramkishan the Chief Justice of |India, as chairman of the statutory body
introduced in Parliament
Cabinet approves extension of the term of the Justice G. Rohini Commission to examine the issue of
Sub-categorization of OBCs in the Central List till November 2018
approves the continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) beyond the 12th five year
plan period
SC directs Tamil Nadu govt. to close 11 resorts constructed on the elephant corridor of Nilgiris in
violation of law
External Affairs Ministry increases the amount of legal and financial assistance for Indian women
deserted by their NRI husbands in 13 countries to 4,000 US dollar per case
Gujarat govt. to set up a tribal museum at a cost of Rs 100 crore at Rajpipla town in Narmada district
Madhya Pradesh government observes Adivasi Diwas on August 9
NCW member Rekha Sharma appointed as the chairperson of the National Commission for Women
Actress Manisha Koirala pens her first book titled “The Book of Untold Stories”
3 books ‘Jewellery’ by Dr. Gulab Kothari, ‘Ghats of Banaras’ by Dr. Sachidanand Joshi and ‘Untold
Story of Broadcasting’ by Dr. Gautam Chatterjee released
Economy & Corporate
Lok Sabha passes four Bills to amend GST laws to make return forms simpler and raise the turnover
threshold for availing composition scheme to Rs. 1.5 crore
Cabinet approves release of pulses to states at a discount of Rs. 15/kg for utilization under welfare
schemes like PDS, Mid-Day Meal
TRAI Chairperson Ram Sewak Sharma given two-year extension upto September 30, 2020
Madhavan appointed CMD of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd
Paytm acquires Bengaluru-based savings management startup Balance Technology
Sweden-based furniture retailer IKEA inaugurates its first store in India at Hyderabad
World
Chile’s first woman President Michelle Bachelet nominated as the next United Nations High
Commissioner for Human Rights by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres nominates
World Bi…
India
Monsoon Session of Parliament concludes, 20 Bills passed by both Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha
Monsoon Session of Parliament had 17 sittings spread over 24 days; productivity of Lok Sabha: 118%,
Rajya Sabha: 68%
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President-elect of UN General Assembly Maria Fernanda Espinosa Garces calls on PM in New Delhi
Non-Resident Indians are not eligible to file Right to Information applications: Govt.
Railway Ministry to launch “digital museums” at 22 stations on Independence Day to showcase its
history
EAM Sushma Swaraj meets Foreign Minister of Swiss Federation Ignazio Cassis in New Delhi
Indian Navy launches “Operation Madad” to rescue people in flood-hit Kerala
Indian Army launches “Operation Sahyog” to rescue people in flood-hit Kerala
Nepalese frontier guarding force – the Armed Police Force – concludes its 4-day talks with their
Indian counterparts Sashastra Seema Bal in Delhi
Assam: Forms for claims, objections and corrections of the draft National Register of Citizens are
being made available at the NRC Seva Kendras in Assam from August 10
Economy & Corporate
Industrial output, , measured in terms of the Index of Industrial Production (IIP), records 5-month
high growth of 7% in June
IMF forecasts 7.3% GDP growth for India in 2018-19 and 7.5% in 2019-20
Parliament passes Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Second Amendment) Bill, 2018 that allows
homebuyers to be treated as financial creditors
Lok Sabha passes bill that seeks to encourage institutional arbitration for settlement of disputes and
make India a centre of robust Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) mechanism
President inaugurates 3-day ‘One District One Product’ Summit organised by UP govt. in Lucknow
with a tagline of ‘Nayi Udaan, Nayi Pehchan’
Amazon signs MoU with UP Govt. to support MSME entrepreneurs in 9 districts under the state’s
flagship ‘One District, One Product’ (ODOP) scheme
All battery-operated vehicles will have green number plates exhibiting registration marks in yellow
for transport vehicles and white for all other vehicles
Axis Bank becomes 1st bank in the country to introduce Iris Scan Authentication feature for
Aadhaar-based transactions through its micro ATM tablets
Maharashtra govt. provides land at MIHAN SEZ in Nagpur for setting up defence equipment
manufacturing cluster
Jaipur-based Hexpressions wins Samsung Global Startup Acceleration Program award
IFFCO announces JV with Spain’s Congelados De Navarra to set up food processing plant in Punjab
World Biofuel Day 2018 observed on August 10
World
Indian High Commissioner to Pakistan Ajay Bisaria meets Prime Minister-in-waiting Imran Khan in
Islamabad
Former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet replaces Jordan’s Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein as the new UN
High Commissioner for Human Rights
UN starts Hindi weekly news bulletin from July 22
12-day-long Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) begins
International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples observed on August 9, 2018 Theme: Indigenous
peoples’ migration and movement
SPORTS
Asian Games 2018: Javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra to be India’s flag-bearer
India
Delhi Police inducts India’s first all-woman Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team for anti-
terrorist operations
President accepts resignation of Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Sandeep Sethi whose term was
to end in June 2020
New campus of National Institute of Animal Biotechnology (NIAB) inaugurated in Hyderabad by
Union Science and Technology Minister Harsh Vardhan
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Projects for Defence Industrial Corridor launched in Aligarh (UP) by Defence Minister Nirmala
Sitharaman
Israel opens Visa Application Centre in Kolkata
‘Digital North East Vision 2022’ released in Guwahati by Union Minister for Electronics &
Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad
‘Tatkal Sewa’ for property registration to start across Punjab from August 13
The Hindu Playwright Award 2018 presented to Annie Zaidi for her play Untitled-1
Economy & Corporate
Civil Aviation Ministry approves proposal for setting up of water aerodromes in the country, Chilika
Lake in Odisha, Sardar Sarovar Dam and Sabarmati river front Ahmedabad in Gujarat identified for
construction
SBI reports net loss of Rs 4875 crore for the April-June 2018 period (Q1), its third straight quarterly
loss
Railways to stop providing free travel insurance to its passengers starting September 1
Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting to offer 3-year Santoor scholarships for higher education to girls
from economically weaker families in Karnataka, AP and Telangana
Bajaj Electricals MD Anant Bajaj dies at 41
World ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
China holding a million Uighur Muslims in mass detention camps in Xinjiang province: UN
Committee on the Elimination of Racial Discrimination
US President Donald Trump authorises doubling of tariffs on steel and aluminium products from
Turkey
Sports
Sports Ministry clears 804-member Indian contingent for Asian Games to be held in Indonesia from
August 18
Seventh Military World Games to be held in Wuhan, China from October 18 to 27
India’s Y. Pranjala and Rutuja Bhosale win Women’s Doubles title at ITF $25,000 tennis tournament
in Nonthaburi, Thailand
India
Defence Minister inaugurates 280-foot long strategically important bridge connecting Ferozepur
with Hussainiwala barrage on the Sutlej River in Punjab
National Wildlife Genetic Resource Bank inaugurated in Hyderabad by Union Science & Technology
Minister Harsh Vardhan
50% reservation will be given to women in recruitment of jawans for Railway Protection Force
IIT Kharagpur wins Chairman Award for Technical Innovation in India Innovation Challenge Design
Contest (IICDC) 2017
Economy & Corporate
Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC) has put the debt recovery process on fast track: FICCI-IBA
Survey
Multiplex chain PVR Ltd acquiring 71.69% stake in South India-based SPI Cinemas for Rs 633 crore
World
India hands over the first lot of more than 400 houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lanka’s
central province
Nobel Literature Prize-winning British author Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul dies at 85 in London
Nepal-India Literature Festival 2018 being held in Birgunj, Nepal on August 12-13
NASA launches Parker Solar Probe, mankind’s first mission to touch the Sun
World Elephant Day celebrated on August 12
International Youth Day celebrated on August 12 with its theme as ‘Safe Spaces for Youth’
Rajkumar Hirani’s “Sanju” wins Best Film award at Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM); Manoj
Bajpayee is Best Actor for “Gali Guleiyan” and Rani Mukerji is Best Actress for “Hichki”
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Sports
England (396/7 declared) beat India (107/10, 130/10) by an innings and 159 runs in 2nd test at Lord’s,
London, lead 5-test series 2-0. Chris Woakes is man of the match
England’s James Anderson becomes 1st bowler to take 100 Test wickets at the Lord’s Cricket Ground
Vietnam Open Badminton: India’s Ajay Jayaram loses to Shesar Hiren Rhustavito of Indonesia in
Men’s Singles final
India
Pune is the top-ranked city on Govt’s Ease of Living Index while Delhi is 65th. Ranking was done on
the basis of four parameters of ease of living including governance, social, economic and physical
infrastructure.
Housing and Urban Affairs Ministry to conduct ‘Swachh Survekshan 2019’ from January 4 to 31
Former Lok Sabha Speaker (2004-2009) Somnath Chatterjee dies in Kolkata at 89
Nagaland CM Neiphiu Rio launches “CM Dashboard”, an electronic window, for proper monitoring
of govt. schemes
EAM Sushma Swaraj holds delegation level talks with UN General Assembly President-elect Maria
Fernanda Espinosa Garces in New Delhi
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approves
ramkishan procurement| of 6 Next Generation Offshore Patrol
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
Vessels (NGOPVs) for the Indian Navy for Rs. 4941 crore.
MP: Indore makes new record after people hoist 12 km long Tricolour. Previous record of 10 km held
by Mathura
Railway Station Cleanliness Rankings
Railway Station cleanliness rankings conducted by Quality Council of India released
A-1 category stations: Jodhpur, Jaipur and Tirupati ranked 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively
A category stations: Marwar (Rajasthan), Phulera (Rajasthan) and Warangal (Telangana) ranked 1st,
2nd and 3rd respectively
Zonal Railway rankings: North Western Railway, South Central Railway and East Coast Railway
ranked 1st, 2nd and 3rd respectively
Economy & Corporate
Retail inflation, based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI), falls to 9-month low of 4.17% in July
Govt dismisses Usha Ananthasubramanian, ex-MD of scam-hit PNB, from service.
Ananthasubramanian was divested of all her powers as MD of Allahabad Bank in May 2018, after
being named in a CBI charge-sheet in PNB fraud case
CCI approves acquisition of debt-ridden Ruchi Soya by Adani Wilmar
Justice Manjula Chellur takes oath as Chairperson of Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (APTEL)
Bureaucrat Ashish Kumar Bhutani appointed CEO of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
Leo Puri quits as MD and CEO of UTI Mutual Fund after end of his five-year tenure
World
Garvita Gulhati, founder of “Why Waste?”, is the only Indian in 60 Young Global Changemakers who
will attend the Global Youth Summit in Switzerland from August 12 to 18
Iran unveils next generation of Fateh Mobin short-range ballistic missile
August 13 observed as International Left-Handers Day
August 13 observed as World Organ Donation Day
Sports
Spain’s Rafael Nadal beats Stefanos Tsitsipas of Greece in the final to win men’s Singles title at
Toronto Masters tennis
Sunil Chhetri adjudged the country’s ‘Best Sportsperson of the Year’ by the Calcutta Sports
Journalists’ Club
India
President approves 131 Gallantry Awards to Armed Forces Personnel and members of Paramilitary
Forces: 1 Kirti Chakra, 20 Shaurya Chakras, three Bar to Sena Medals (Gallantry), 93 Sena Medals
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(Gallantry), 11 Nao Sena Medals (Gallantry) and three Vayu Sena Medals (Gallantry)
Kirti Chakra awarded posthumously to Sepoy Vrahma Pal Singh of Rajput Regiment/ 44th Battalion
Rashtriya Rifles
Akshay Kumar becomes brand ambassador for government’s Road Safety campaigns
Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal awards 13.42 tmcft of river water to Karnataka as against its
demand for 36.66 tmcft
West Bengal govt. removes family’s annual income ceiling for eligibility under Kanyashree Prakalpa
scheme – a conditional cash transfer scheme that provides cash incentives for schooling of girls
until the age of 18
Chhattisgarh Governor Balramji Dass Tandon dies in Raipur at 90
Australia recommences its adoption programme with India after 8 years
Economy & Corporate
Rupee breaches the historic low of Rs. 70 mark against the US dollar before recovering to 69.89
Wholesale price index (WPI) based inflation eases to 5.09% in July on account of cheaper food articles
Merchandise trade data for July: Exports (+14.3%): US$ 25.77 billion, Imports (+28.8%): US$ 43.79
billion, Trade Deficit (+57.3%): US$ 18.01
Services trade data for June: Exports (+26.0%): US$ 16.87, Imports (38.1%): US$ 10.30 billion, Trade
Surplus (10.8%): US$ 6.57 billion
Hackers siphon Rs 94 crore from Pune’s Cosmos Cooperative Bank via ATMs in 28 countries
IAS officer K. S. Srinivas takes charge as the Chairman of Kochi-based Marine Products Export
Development Authority (MPEDA)
Flipkart shuts its eBay India operations
Nutrela appoints Madhuri Dixit Nene as its first Brand Ambassador
World
Austrian capital Vienna is world’s most liveable city in Global Liveability Index released by The
Economist, Damascus is the least liveable city
Sri Lanka gets $39 million funding from US for boosting its maritime security
BSF and Pakistan Rangers exchange sweets to celebrate Pakistan’s Independence Day at Wagah-
Attari border
Bala Venkatesh Varma appointed India’s new Ambassador to Russia
Sports
Hakam Singh, 1978 Asian Games gold medallist in men’s 20 km walk, dies in Sangrur, Punjab
BCCI appoints Ramesh Powar as Head Coach of Indian women’s team
August 1, 2018
Rajasthan first State to implement biofuel policy
Rajasthan became first state in the country to implement National Policy on Biofuels unveiled by Union
Government in May 2018. Its implementation was approved by high-power Biofuel Authority. It was also
decided that dtate Government will release Biofuel Rules, 2018.
Key Facts
Under this policy, State Government will lay emphasis on increasing production of oilseeds and establish
Centre for Excellence in Udaipur to promote research in fields of alternative fuels and energy resources.
Biodiesel plant of capacity of eight tonnes per day already has been installed in State with financial
assistance of Indian Railways. State government will give emphasis to promote marketing of biofuels and
generate awareness about them. State Rural Livelihood Development Council will also encourage women’s
self help groups (SHGs) to explore the scope for additional income through supply of biodiesel.
National Policy on Biofuels – 2018
The policy categorises of biofuels into first generation (1G), second generation (2G) and third generation
(3G) to enable extension of appropriate financial and fiscal incentives under each category. It seeks to help
farmers dispose of their surplus stock in economic manner and reduce country’s oil import dependence. It
has expanded scope of raw material for ethanol production by allowing use of sugarcane juice, sugar
containing materials like sweet sorghum, sugar beet, starch containing materials like corn, cassava,
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damaged food grains like broken rice, wheat, rotten potatoes, unfit for human consumption for ethanol
production. It also encourages setting up of supply chain mechanisms for biodiesel production from non-
edible oilseeds, used cooking oil, short gestation crops.
Core industries growth quickens to 6.7% in June 2018
As per data released by Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, index of eight core industries
expanded to 7-month high of 6.7% in June 2018. This was due to better performance by cement, refinery
and coal sectors of the index. The previous high was witnessed in November 2017 at 6.9%. The growth rate
in May 2018 was 4.3%.
Breakaway of June 2018
Key Facts
The combined index of eight core industries stands at 129.8 in June 2018 and was 6.7% higher as
compared to the index of June 2017. Its cumulative growth during April to June 2018-19 was 5.2%.
This growth in the core industry is considered by two factors.One is that government investment
in infrastructure projects is going up, driving industries such as steel. The other is petroleum
products are mainly exported and drive to increase exports will be pushing this up.
Core industries
Core industries are main or key industries of the economy. In most countries, these particular industry
are backbone of all other industries. In India, there are eight core sectors comprising of coal, crude oil,
natural gas, petroleum refinery products, fertilisers, steel, cement and electricity. The eight infrastructure
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sectors, constitute 40.27% of the total index of industrial production (IIP).

Revised weightage in core sectors: Petroleum Refinery production (weight: 28.04%), Electricity
generation (19.85%), Steel production (17.92%), Coal production (10.33%), Crude Oil production (8.98%),
Natural Gas production (6.88%), Cement production (5.37%), Fertilizers production (2.63%).
Government imposes 25% safeguard duty on import of solar cells
Union Government has imposed safeguard duty of 25% on import of solar cells (whether or not assembled
in modules or panels) from China and Malaysia. The move is aimed at helping domestic solar cell
manufacturing sector. But it could affect existing projects dependent on cheap imports and hike solar
power tariffs in India since around 90% of panels sector uses solar cells made in China and Malaysia.
Safeguard Duty is tariff barrier imposed by government on the commodities to ensure that imports in excessive
quantities do not harm the domestic industry. It is mainly temporary measure undertaken by government in defence
of the domestic industry which is harmed or has potential threat getting hared due to sudden cheap surge in imports.
Key Facts
The decision by Union Government follows long deliberation by Directorate General of Trade Remedies
(DGTR), which recommended safeguard duty structure after considering application by Indian solar cell
manufacturers. They had sought protection from rising cheap imports. The 20% safeguard duty will be
effective for one year between July 30, 2018, and| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
ramkishan gugulotu July 29, 2019. It| will be reduced to 20% for six months
from July 30, 2019, and further to 15% in the subsequent half year. It will not be imposed on imports from
developing countries other than China and Malaysia.
Challenges for domestic industry
India’s domestic industry has around half-a-dozen makers of solar cells and modules, with total capacity of
around 3,000 MW. This is hardly enough to meet country’s burgeoning demand. The safeguard duty now
puts locally-made panels on par with imported ones in terms of cost. Solar Power projects now will have to
revive their supply chain and make input components locally instead of importing them and put modules
together here.
Domestic sector is not being fully exploited because of obsolete technology. Moreover price of solar
equipment produced in the country is not competitive as compared to that of foreign manufacturers,
especially Chinese manufacturers. Domestic sector needs to do lot more to be effective meet required
standards as compared to imported solar cells. They also need to improve technology.
3rd BRICS Film Festival held in Durban, South Africa
The third edition of BRICS Film Festival was held in Durban, South Africa, along with the International
Durban Film Festival (DIFF). The last day of festival was celebrated as India Country Day followed by
Awards and Closing Ceremony. The film gala was aimed at celebrating world-class film productions from
BRICS nations (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) with the objective of inspiring more
collaboration from these nations.
Key Facts
Newton directed by Amit Masurkar won Best Film and Village Rockstars by Rima Das received Best
Actress (Bhanita Das) and Special Jury Award. The format of BRICS film festival consisted of screening
two feature films from each country in competition category and three feature films in non-competition
category. Total of 24 films were screened during duration of the festival.
Note: Newton featuring Rajkummar Rao, Pankaj Tripathi, Anjali Patil and Raghubir Yadav in lead roles
earlier had won National Film Award for Best Feature Film in Hindi. It was also India’s entry for Best
Foreign Language Film at Oscars (90th Academy Awards). Village Rockstars was premiered at 2017
Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) and it had won Best Feature Film Swarna Kamal award at 65th
National Film Awards.
Lok Sabha passes Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2018
Lok Sabha has passed Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2018 to bring relief to the home
buyers and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The Bill replaces ordinance promulgated in
this regard and amends the Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
Background
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Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), 2016 provides time-bound process to resolution of insolvency
among companies and individuals. Insolvency is situation where individual or company is unable to repay
their outstanding debt. Government in November 2017 had set up Insolvency Law Committee to review
IBC and identify issues in its implementation and suggest changes. The Committee had made several
recommendations such as exempting MSMEs from certain provisions of IBC, treating allottees under real
estate project as financial creditors, reducing voting thresholds of committee of creditors (CoC), among
others. Subsequently, President had promulgated Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment)
Ordinance, 2018 in June 2018 after approval of Central Government.
Key Features of Bill
Status of allottees: The Bill clarifies that allottee under real estate project i.e. buyer of under-construction
residential or commercial property will be considered as financial creditor, as amount raised from
allottees for financing real estate project has commercial effect of a borrowing.
Representative of financial creditors: It specifies that in certain cases, such as when debt is owed to a
class of creditors, the financial creditors will be represented on committee of creditors by authorised
representative. These representatives will vote on behalf of financial creditors as per prior instructions
received from them.
Voting threshold of committee of creditors: The voting threshold for decisions of committee of creditors
has been lowered from 75% to 51%. For certain key decisions of committee like appointment of resolution
professional, approval of the resolution plan and increasing time limit for insolvency resolution process
threshold has been reduced from 75% to 66%.
Ineligibility to be resolution applicant: Bill amends criteria which prohibits certain persons from
submitting resolution plan. It provides that this criterion will not apply if such applicant is financial entity
and not related party to debtor with certain exceptions. It specifies that such bar will apply if such
guarantee has been invoked by creditor and remains unpaid.
Applicability of Code to Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs): The Bill specifies that
ineligibility criteria for resolution applicants regarding Non Performing Assets (NPAs) and guarantors will
not be applicable to persons applying for resolution of MSMEs. It empowers Central government in public
interest to modify or remove other provisions of IBC while applying them to MSMEs.
Withdrawal of submitted applications: The Bill increases vote required for withdrawal resolution
application from National Company Law Tribunal (NCLT) after such process has been initiated by 90%
vote of committee of creditors.
Common Service Centers to help in implementation of Ayushman Bharat
Common Service Center (CSC) and National Health Accounts (NHA) signed Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) to implement the Ayushman Bharat scheme through 3 lakh Common Service
Centers (CSCs) across the country. Ayushman Bharat-National Health Protection Scheme (NHPS) aims
cover over 10 crore poor vulnerable families (approximately 50 crore beneficiaries) providing coverage of
up to Rs. 5 lakh (per family per year) for secondary and tertiary care hospitalization.
Benefits
Beneficiaries of Ayushman Bharat can visit nearby CSCs across India to get the benefit of this scheme.
CSCs will help beneficiary to identify his name in Health Ministry database and his entitlement for the
scheme. It will also help beneficiary to scan and upload his KYC documents for verification of his identity
and claim his entitlement. It will also provide beneficiary facility to print his Ayushman Scheme card
which will be his base source claim. This card can be used at hospitals to claim the benefits under
Ayushman Bharat Abhiyan. CSCs will also provide requisite information about scheme and promote it
among citizens so that maximum number of beneficiaries can avail the benefit.
Common Service Centres (CSC)
CSC is an initiative of Ministry of Electronics & IT (MeitY). It is strategic cornerstone of Digital India
programme. It is pan-India network catering to regional, geographic, linguistic and cultural diversity of
country, thus enabling Government’s mandate of a socially, financially and digitally inclusive society.
There are as many as 2.91 lakh CSCs operate in the country today.
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They are mostly ICT enabled front end service delivery points at village level for delivery of government
and private services. These CSCs serve as access points for delivery of essential public utility services,
social welfare schemes, financial, healthcare, education and agriculture services, apart from host of B2C
services to citizens in rural and remote areas of the country. They also serve as change agents by
promoting rural entrepreneurship and building rural capacities and livelihoods.
NBRC researchers decipher how Zika virus causes microcephaly
Scientists from National Brain Research Centre (NBRC) have successfully identified molecular and cellular
mechanisms by which Zika virus causes microcephaly. Babies born with microcephaly have significantly
smaller head size compared with normal babies.
Key Findings
The researchers found envelop protein (E protein) of Zika virus, which is responsible for entry of virus into
brain stem cells, was responsible for arresting proliferation of human foetal neural stem cells and also
killing cells that were becoming neuron-like. The combined effect reduces pool of foetal brain cells leading
to smaller size of the brain.
Significance
The study shows that neutralising E protein of Zika virus can help prevent or reduce its harmful effects in
developing foetus. The E protein can be seen as likely therapeutic target. The E protein in Zika virus is
mutated and very different from envelop protein
ramkishan of other flaviviruses
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | such as dengue, yellow fever, west
nilevirus, and Japanese encephalitis. It was found to be more potent in arresting the proliferation of brain
stem cells. The other three envelop proteins were acting in less significant manner.
Zika virus
Zika virus is vector borne disease transmitted primarily by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which also transmits
dengue. It can also spread through blood transfusion and sexual contact. It is capable of causing serious
birth defects i.e. neurological disorders and foetal deformation known as Microcephaly in which infants
are born with abnormally smaller heads. Besides possible link between virus and Guillain-Barré syndrome
(a condition in which the body’s immune system attacks part of the nervous system) is also suspected.
There is no specific treatment or vaccine currently available to treat Zika. The best form of prevention is
protection against mosquito bites and clearing stagnant water where mosquitoes breed.
TESS: NASA’s planet hunting Spacecraft is now operational
NASA’s new planet hunting Spacecraft Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS) has become
operational and has started collecting data after its successful launch in April 2018. Now, the TESS
spacecraft will firstly scan patch of sky in southern hemisphere covering 2,300 degrees from south ecliptic
pole to near ecliptic plane. Basically, it’s looking for potential exoplanets in a strip of the sky running from
the far south to near the equator. Eventually,
Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS)
TESS mission is led by Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s (MIT) Kavli Institute for Astrophysics and
Space Research. It is designed to find potential planets orbiting stars close to Earth. It will identify such
planets by spotting decreased brightness of stars after planet passes in front of it. It is successor to Kepler,
the space observatory which is responsible for detecting most of the currently known exoplanets.
Primary mission objective of TESS: Survey brightest stars near Earth for transiting exoplanets over two-
year period. It will use array of wide-field cameras to perform all-sky survey. Create catalog of thousands
of exoplanet candidates using transit photometry method.
Features: TESS observatory weighs just 362 kilograms. It has four wide-view cameras surrounded by sun
shade to monitor any dips in brightness from target stars. TESS has no instruments capable of detecting
life. Its main job is to find and characterize planets that will become main targets of future telescopes.
Methodology: Like its predecessor Kepler, TESS will use transit method to detect exoplanets. It watches
distant stars for small dips in brightness, which can indicate that planet has passed in front of them.
Repeated dips will indicate planet passing in front of its star. This data has to be validated by repeated
observations and verified by scientists. TESS will be able to observe about 85% of sky over its expected
two-year mission. The first year will cover southern hemisphere and then it will move on to northern half
of the sky.
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Significance of TESS: Data collected by it will help to study mass, size, density and orbit of large cohort of
small planets, including sample of rocky worlds in habitable zones (goldilocks zone) of their host stars.
This will reveal whether planets are rocky (like Earth), gas or jovian giants (like Jupiter) or something even
more unusual.
TESS will be able to scan more of sky than its predecessor Kepler did, but it won’t look at objects as far
away. Kepler had maximum range of around 3,000 light years, but TESS’s maximum range is of 300 light
years. TESS will be able to track down more super-Earth planets with its powerful array of cameras as
compared to Kepler.
Gaofen 11: China launches high-resolution Earth observation satellite
China successfully launched Gaofen-11, an optical remote sensing satellite, as part of the country’s high-
resolution Earth observation project. It was launched on board of Long March 4B rocket from Taiyuan
Satellite Launch Center in northern Shanxi Province. It was overall 282nd flight mission by Long March
carrier rocket.
Key Facts
Gaofen-11 is sub-meter resolution optical satellite. It was developed by China Academy of Space
Technology (CAST). It is the sixth in Gaofen series launched this year, following triplet of Gaofen-1
satellites and larger Gaofen-5 and Gaofen-6, all placed in Sun-synchronous orbits.
It will become part of China High-resolution Earth Observation System (CHEOS) initiated in 2010 to
provide all-weather, all-day coverage by 2020 with optical and synthetic aperture radar satellites, and
could also include airborne and near-space systems such as stratospheric balloons.
Gaofen-11 satellite will be used for land survey, urban planning, road network design, agriculture, and
disaster relief. Its data will also be used for Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). China had unveiled BRI in 2013
with aim to link Southeast Asia, Central Asia, Gulf region, Africa and Europe with network of land and sea
routes.
Gaofen project
Gaofen means “high resolution” in Chinese. It is ambitious space project of China that aims to launch
seven high-definition observation satellites before 2020. Gaofen-1 was the first satellite of the project
series which was launched in April 2013. Presently, Gaofen-1 and Gaofen-2 satellites part of Gaofen project
series are orbiting around the earth at low orbits around 600-700km. Since launch of Gaofen project,
China has gained increasingly clearer view of planet.
August 2, 2018
Cabinet approves Extension of Concessional Financing Scheme
Union Cabinet has approved first extension of Concessional Financing Scheme (CFS) for another five years
from 2018 to 2023 to support Indian Entities bidding for strategically important infrastructure projects
abroad. The scheme also has been liberalized, allowing any Indian company, irrespective of ownership
eligible to benefits of it.
Implementation
Under CFS, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) selects specific projects keeping in view strategic interest
of India and sends same to Department of Economic Affairs (DEA). The strategic importance of project to
deserve financing is decided on case to case basis, by Committee chaired by Secretary, DEA and with
members from Department of Expenditure and Department of Financial Services, Ministry of Finance;
MEA; Department of Industrial Promotion and Policy (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce and Ministry of Home
Affairs. Deputy National Security Adviser (Dy NSA) is also a member of this Committee. Once project is
approved by Committee, DEA issues formal letter to Export-Import (EXIM) Bank conveying approval for
financing of project.
The Scheme is presently being operated through EXIM Bank, which raises resources from market to
provide concessional finance. Union Government provides counter guarantee and interest equalization
support of 2% to EXIM Bank to offer concessional finance to any foreign Government or its owned or
controlled entity, if any Indian entity, succeeds in getting contract for execution of project. EXIM Bank can
extend credit at rate not exceeding LIBOR (avg. of six months) + 100 bps. The repayment of loan is
guaranteed by foreign government.
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Background
Prior to introduction of CFS, Indian entities were not able to bid for large projects abroad since cost of
financing was very high for them and bidders from other countries such as China, Japan, Europe and US
were able to provide credit at superior terms (i.e. lower interest rate and longer tenures giving advantage
to bidders from those countries). Union Government is executing CFS since 2015-16 to support Indian
entities bidding for strategically important infrastructure projects abroad. CFS has enabled India to
generate substantial backward linkage induced jobs, demand for material and machinery in India and also
created lot of goodwill for India.
Presidents confers Outstanding Parliamentarian Awards on five MPs
President Ram Nath Kovind has conferred Outstanding Parliamentarian Awards on five Members of
Parliament.
Recipients are
Dr Najma Heptulla: She is former Rajya Sabha MP. She was selected for this award for the year 2013.
Hukumdev Narayan Yadav: He is Lok Sabha MP. He was selected for this award for the year for
2014.
Ghulam Nabi Azad: He is Rajya Sabha and was selected for this award for the year for 2015. He is
leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha representing Congress party.
Dinesh Trivedi: He is Lok Sabha MP andgugulotu
ramkishan was| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
selected for 2016. |
Bhartruhari Mahatab: He is Lok Sabha MP and was selected for 2017. He is Biju Janata Dal (BJD)
leader.
Outstanding Parliamentarian Award
The award was established in 1992 by Shivraj Patil who was then Speaker of Lok Sabha. Indian
Parliamentary Group selects outstanding sitting Member of Parliament after considering his/her overall
contribution in Parliament. The award is aimed to motivate elected representatives to work better.
Cabinet approves policy framework for exploitation of unconventional hydrocarbons
Union Cabinet has approved policy framework to permit exploration and exploitation of unconventional
hydrocarbons such as Shale oil/gas, Coal Bed Methane (CBM) etc. It will be carried out under existing
Production Sharing Contracts (PSCs), CBM contracts and Nomination fields to encourage existing
contractors in licensed or leased area to unlock full potential of unconventional hydrocarbons in existing
acreages.
Significance
With this policy, there will be complete shift from One hydrocarbon Resource Type to Uniform Licensing
Policy which is presently applicable in Discovered Small Field (DSF) Policy and Hydrocarbon Exploration
& Licensing Policy (HELP).
Benefits of this Policy Framework
It will enable the realization of prospective hydrocarbon reserves in existing contract areas which
otherwise would have remain unexplored and unexploited. It will give impetus to new investment in
exploration and production (E&P) activities and chances of finding new hydrocarbon discoveries and
increasing domestic production. It will also spur exploration and exploitation of additional hydrocarbon
resources giving impetus to new investment, economic activities, additional employment generation and
thus benefitting various sections of society. This will also lead to induction of new, innovative and cutting-
edge technology and forging new technological collaboration to exploit unconventional hydrocarbons.
Background
Under existing contractual regime of PSCs, existing contractors are not allowed to explore and exploit
CBM or other unconventional hydrocarbons in already allotted licensed or leased area. Similarly, CBM
contractors are not allowed to exploit any other hydrocarbon except CBM. Acreages held at present by
various contractors in PSCs and CBM blocks and National Oil Companies (NOCs) in nomination regime
constitute a significant part of India’s sedimentary basin.
Government launches Seva Bhoj Yojna
Union Ministry of Culture launched Seva Bhoj Yojna, a new scheme to provide financial assistance on
purchase of specific food items by Charitable Religious Institutions (CRIs) for free distribution among
people. Under this scheme, Centre’s share of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and Interstate GST
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charged on raw food materials purchased by the religious institutions will be refunded.
Seva Bhoj Yojna
The scheme aims to reimburse Central Government share of Central Goods and Services Tax (CGST) and
Integrated Goods and Service Tax (IGST) to lessen financial burden of religious and charitable institutions
providing food, prasad, langar (Community Kitchen), Bhandara free of cost without any discrimination to
public and devotee
Beneficiaries: Religious and charitable institutions such as temples, gurudwara, mosque, church, dharmik
ashram, dargah, matth, monasteries etc. having existence for at least five years and serve free food to at
least 5000 people in month. Grant will be given to such institutions if they are covered under Section 10
(23BBA) of Income Tax (IT) Act or are institutions registered as Society under Societies Registration Act
(XXI of 1860) or as Public Trust under any law for time being in force of statuary religious bodies or
institutions registered under Section 12AA of IT Act
Selection: All eligible religious and charitable institutions first must registered with Darpan portal of NITI
Aayog and get Unique ID generated by it. Thereafter, they shall enroll themselves in CSMS Portal on the
Ministry of Culture’s website in prescribed format. The applications will be examined by committee
constituted for purpose. On basis of recommendation of committee, competent authority in Ministry of
Culture will register these institutions for reimbursing claim of CGST and Central Government share of
IGST paid on mentioned specific items.
Lok Sabha passes bill for speedy disposal of commercial disputes
Lok Sabha has passed Commercial Courts, Commercial Division and Commercial Appellate Division of
High Courts (Amendment) Bill, 2018. It replaces the ordinance promulgated by President in May 2018 and
amends Commercial Courts, Commercial Division and Commercial Appellate Division of High Courts Act,
2015.
The Act enables creation of commercial divisions in High Courts and commercial courts at district level to
adjudicate commercial disputes such as disputes related to contracts for provision of goods and services
and construction contracts. The amendment is aimed at improving ease of doing business in India.
Reduction in pecuniary limits: Under the parent Act, commercial courts and commercial divisions in
High courts can decide commercial disputes with value of at least Rs. 1 crore. The Bill reduces this limit to
Rs. 3 lakh.
Establishment of certain commercial courts: The parent Act, empowers state governments to constitute
commercial courts at district judge level, after consulting concerned High Court. It had barred such
commercial courts to be constituted in cases where High Court has original jurisdiction to hear
commercial cases. The Bill removes this bar and allows states to constitute commercial courts where High
Courts have original jurisdiction.
Commercial Appellate Courts: The Bills allows state governments to notify commercial appellate courts
at the district judge level in areas where High Courts do not have ordinary original civil jurisdiction. These
Appellate Courts will hear appeals against order of commercial court below level of district judge.
Mediation: It introduces pre-institution mediation process in cases where no urgent, interim relief is
contemplated. This aims to provide for opportunity to parties to resolve commercial disputes outside
ambit of courts through authorities. This will also help in reinforcing investor’s confidence in the
resolution of commercial disputes.
Counterclaims not to be transferred: The Bill removes provision of counterclaim in relation to transfer of
suits in a commercial dispute of at least Rs. 1 crore in civil court.
Government launches logo, tagline for GI
Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) under Ministry of Commerce and Industry has
unveiled tricolour logo for geographical indication (GI) certified products. The logo has tagline “Invaluable
Treasures of Incredible India” printed below it.
Key Facts
In the open contest, winning logo was designed by Adri Chatterjee and winning tagline was coined by
Akancha Tripathi. The purpose of logo and tagline for GI selected is to increase awareness about
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intellectual property rights (IPRs) and also and importance of GI products in the country. From now on,
GI-registered goods will sport logo and tagline to make them more attractive
Geographical Indication (GI)
GI tag is name or sign used on certain products which correspond to specific geographical location or
origin. It is used for agricultural, natural and manufactured goods having special quality and established
reputation. The goods and products having tag are recognised for their origin, quality and reputation and
gives it required edge in global market. It also ensures that none can use their name, giving them
exclusivity. The registration of GI is valid for 10 years after which it needs to be renewed. Violation of GI
tags is punishable offence under law. The purpose of GI tag enables stakeholders to authenticate their
production while earning a premium and derive an improved livelihood.
GI is covered as element of intellectual property rights (IPRs) under Paris Convention for Protection of
Industrial Property. At international level, GI is governed by WTO’s Agreement on Trade-Related Aspects
of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). In India, GI tag Geographical Indications of Goods (Registration and
Protection Act), 1999 governs it. This Act is administered by Controller General of Patents, Designs and Trade
Marks, who is also Registrar of Geographical Indications and is based in Chennai, Tamil Nadu.
So far, total of 320 products have been conferred GI status in India. Darjeeling Tea, Tirupathi Laddu,
Kangra Paintings, Nagpur Orange and Kashmir Pashmina are among registered GIs in India. Karnataka
tops with 38 GI products, followed by Maharashtra which has 32 GI products. Tamil Nadu comes third
with 25 GI products.
August 3, 2018
Mukhyamantri Yuva Nestam: Andhra Pradesh Government launches unemployment allowance scheme
Andhra Pradesh Government has approved Mukhyamantri Yuva Nestam, an unemployment allowance
scheme to provide Rs 1000 per month unemployed youth in state. It was announced by Andhra Pradesh IT
Minister Nara Lokesh who is also son of Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu.
Mukhyamantri Yuva Nestam Scheme
The scheme aims to provide Rs 1000 per month unemployed youth in the state. The allowance will directly
credited in bank accounts of selected beneficiary through biometric authentication in transparent
manner. It will not be applicable to those paying provident fund.
The scheme will benefit 12 lakh youth in the 22-35 years age group from state. Registration for enrolling
into scheme will start from either third or fourth week of August 2018. The website for the same will be
launched in which the unemployed youth would register their details
Simultaneously, State Government impart skill development and train youth in fields of their interests. It
is also planning to roll out apprenticeship programme by integrating state and central schemes through
which the youth can get on-job training and upgrade their skills.
Integrate to Innovate Programme launched for startups in energy sector
Invest India under Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP) in partnership with energy
companies has launched Integrate to Innovate Programme for startups in energy sector. It is three-month
programme for startups in the power sector aims to foster collaboration between startups and large
corporations of the energy sector.
Integrate to Innovate (i2i) Programme
i2i programme will provide opportunity for startups for collaboration and conversation around valuable
energy transitions by bringing their ideas to life with guidance and support from corporates. The selected
startups will receive cash prize grant of up to Rs 5 lakh along with opportunity to pilot their product with
corporates. The corporates will offer selected startups access to technology, technical and commercial
mentorship and access to potential customers through corporate network of partners. Startups from
innovators across various stages of energy life-cycle i.e. generation, transmission and distribution, storage
and consumption in multiple sectors such as households, industry, farm, infrastructure, utility, building
and transport are invited under this programme.
Invest India
It is official Investment Promotion and Facilitation Agency of Central Government. It has been set up as
non-profit venture under Department of Industrial Policy and Promotion (DIPP), Ministry of Commerce
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and Industries. It is mandated to facilitate investments in the country. It is first stop for potential global
investors in country.
Kadaknath chicken meat from Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh gets GI tag
Kadaknath chicken meat from Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh has received Geographical Indication
(GI) tag from Chennai based Geographical Indication Registry and Intellectual Property India. GI tag
denotes that product comes from particular geographical. Kadaknath chicken was awarded GI tag in
“Meat Product, Poultry & Poultry Meat” category. The application for GI was made by Gramin Vikas Trust
of Krishak Bharati Cooperative (KRIBHCO) on behalf of tribals of Jhabua district who breed the variety.
Significance
GI tag will ensure that no one else can use name Kadaknath Chicken while selling any other black chicken.
It will also enhances its commercial value that will translate into higher prices for producers mainly tribal
districts of Jhabua.
Kadaknath Chicken
Kadaknath or Kali Masi (flowl with black flash) is unique breed of chicken that is complete black colour. It is
completely black with black plumage having greenish iridescence, black legs, beak, tongue, comb and
wattles. Apart from its meat, its bones and most organs are also black. Its black colour stems from
deposition of melanin pigment.
This breed of chicken is popular for its adaptability and flavourful good-tasting
ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | black meat, which is believed
to have medicinal properties. It is native tribal districts of Jhabua, Alirajpur and parts of Dhar in Madhya
Pradesh. It is produced mainly in Madhya Pradesh and Chhattisgarh states of India.
Kadaknath chicken contains 25-27% of protein in comparison with other breeds of chickens that contain
18% protein. It is also known for its high iron content. It has fat and cholesterol content lower compared
with other chicken breeds. Due to this special characteristics, Kadaknath chicken’s chicks and eggs are
sold at much higher rate than other varieties of chicken. This chicken breed is very popular among local
tribal people mainly due to its adaptability to the local environment, disease resistance, meat quality,
texture and flavour.
FICCI launches WOW mobile app to create awareness on preventive healthcare
FICCI Ladies Organisation (FLO), the women’s wing of Federation of Indian Chamber of Commerce and
Industry (FICCI) has launched WOW (Wellness of Women) mobile application aimed at creating awareness
on preventive healthcare for women across the country.
WOW app
WOW app is backed by Chennai-based Apollo Hospitals Group that offers access to renowned doctors and
provides health tips. It provides easy to use platform that allows users to talk to doctors through video
conferencing or connect with them via voice or email. It also allows users to upload clinical information
such as reports, images and scans so that experts can provide opinion within stipulated time. The app
gives emphasis on generating awareness and preventive measures along with providing international
care treatment.
Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI)
FICCI is the largest and oldest apex business organization in India. It is a non-governmental and non-
profit organization. It was established in 1927 and is headquartered in New Delhi. Its mandate is to
enhance efficiency and global competitiveness of Indian industry. It also seeks to expand business
opportunities both in domestic and foreign markets through range of specialized services and global
linkages.
Pingali Venkayya: 141st birth anniversary of designer of Indian National Flag observed
141st birth anniversary of freedom fighter and designer (architect) of Indian National Flag Pingali
Venkayya was observed on August 2, 2018.
Pingali Venkayya
He was born on August 2, 1876 in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh and died in 1963. He was firm
believer in Gandhian principles and ardent nationalist. He was also linguist, geolist and writer. At young
age, he had served as soldier in British India Army in South Africa during Anglo Boer war in Africa. During
his stint with British Army he had met Mahatama Gandhi in Africa. He was 19 when meeting took place
and formed association Gandhiji which would last for more than 50 years.
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After his return from Africa, he had most of his time researching about farming and cultivating cotton. He
even went on to study Sanskrit, Urdu and Japanese Anglo Vedic School in Lahore. Such credentials also
had given him interesting titles like ‘Japan Venkayya’, ‘Patti (cotton) Venkayya’ and ‘Jhanda Venkayya’.
Flag Designing
Venkayya had published book in 1916 offering thirty designs of what could make Indian flag. Throughout
all Congress sessions between 1918 and 1921, he relentlessly put forward idea of having flag of our own in
every session of the Congress. Back then, he was working as lecturer in Andhra National College in
Machilipatnam.
He met Gandhiji once again in Vijayawada and showed him his publication with various designs of flag.
Acknowledging need for national flag, Gandhiji then asked Venkayya to design fresh one at national
congress meeting in 1921. Initially, he came up with saffron and green colours, but it later evolved with
spinning wheel at centre (representation wheel of dharma and law) and third colour-white. This modified
flag design was approved Gandhiji and later officially adopted by Indian National Congress in 1931.
Present Flag
India’s National Flag (tricolor or तिरंगा) is based on Swaraj flag of Indian National Congress designed
by Pingali Venkayya. It was adopted during by Constituent Assembly on the 22 July 1947, a few days
before India’s independence from the British. The national flag is horizontal rectangular tricolour of India
saffron, white and India green, with Ashoka
ramkishan Chakra (24-spoke wheel)
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | in navy blue at its centre. Usage of
national flag is governed by Flag Code of India and other laws relating to the national emblems. The flag
code also governs protocol of flying flag and its use in conjunction with other national and non-national
flags.
Move Hack: NITI Aayog launches global mobility hackathon to crowdsource future mobility solutions
NITI Aayog has launched global mobility hackathon Move Hack to crowdsource solutions aimed at future
of mobility in India. It is envisaged as one of largest hackathons globally. It is first platform in the world
that has enmeshed public transport, private transport, road safety, multimodal connectivity and new age
transport technologies such as zero emission vehicles and intra city aerial transport spearheaded by
Government.
MoveHack
MoveHack aims to bring about innovative, dynamic and scalable solutions to problems pertaining to
mobility. It is organized in partnership with Government of Singapore and is powered by Hacker Earth.
PwC is knowledge partner and NASSCOM is strategic partner.
The hackathon is focused on 10 themes and structured over three legs: Online leg, followed by Singapore
leg, and finals in New Delhi. It has two-pronged campaign approach. They are “Just Code It” aimed at
solutions through innovations in technology, product, software and data analysis, and “Just Solve It”
aimed at innovative business ideas or sustainable solutions to transform mobility infrastructure through
technology.
Move Hack is open to individuals from all nationalities. It is expected to unravel pioneering and ingenious
solutions to pertinent mobility-related challenges and pave way for developing integrated, interconnected
and inventive global community.
Hackathon Competition
The top 30 teams from online submissions will travel to Singapore in September 2018 and will be
mentored by curated group of top experts advising teams on host of parameters including design
improvement, business viability, technical solution and customer targeting and marketing.
Top 20 teams from Singapore leg will participate in Final Round to be held in New Delhi later in
September 2018. The winners will be announced during Move Summit 2018 organized by NITI Aayog on 7
and 8 September 2018 in New. The awards of hackathon include recognizing top 10 winners with total
prize of more than Rs. 2 crores. The evaluations will be done by jury comprising of subject matter experts,
venture capitalists, business leaders and successful entrepreneurs.
Background
Transportation and mobility are emerging sector and as potential drivers of innovation and economic
growth of 21st century. Rapidly evolving technologies and business models for delivering mobility services
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have played dramatic potential role to transform global transportation sector. Mobility ranging from
pedestrian and personal transport to public transit and freight movement is extremely critical and
impacts rural and urban daily lives.
Supersonic interceptor missile successfully test-fired
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) conducted successful tested supersonic endo-
atmospheric interceptor missile developed under Ballistic Missile Interceptor Advanced Air Defence (AAD)
System from Abdul Kalam Island (earlier known as Wheeler Island) Odisha.
About Test
The interceptor missile was launched against multiple simulated targets of 1,500 km class ballistic missile.
The mission objectives of test were successfully met. One of its target was selected on real time and
weapon system radars tracked target and locked missile on to it and intercepted it in mid-air on sea
surface with high degree of accuracy. The complete test including engagement and interception was
tracked by number of electro-optical tracking systems, radars and telemetry stations. This test validated
some improved features incorporated in validate some improved features incorporated in interceptor
missile while its missile major health parameters including its ‘kill’ effect already have been validated in
earlier tests.
Interceptor Missile
The endo-atmospheric interceptor missile is yet
ramkishan gugulotu to get formal name.
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | It has been developed as part of
indegenous efforts to have multi-layer ballistic missile defence system, capable of destroying incoming
hostile ballistic missiles. It is 7.5-metre long and is capable of intercepting incoming targets at altitude of
15 to 25 km.
It is single stage solid rocket propelled guided missile. It equipped with navigation system, a hi-tech
computer and an electro-mechanical activator, sources said. It has its own mobile launcher, secure data
link for interception, independent tracking and homing capabilities and sophisticated radars.
Background
DRDO has spearheaded India’s double-layered interceptor ballistic missile defence (BMD) programme. It
consists of two interceptor missiles, Advanced Area Defence (AAD) missile for endo-atmosphere or lower
altitudes and Prithvi Defence Vehicle for exo-atmospheric ranges. DRDO expects deployment of this
indegenous BMD shield by 2022. It will make India fourth country in the world after US, Russia and Israel
to successfully built effective anti-ballistic missile system.
Lok Sabha passes Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Third Amendment) Bill, 2017
Lok Sabha has unanimously passed Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2017 by two-third majority. The
constitutional amendment bill seeks to grant National Commission on Backward Classes (NCBC)
constitutional status at par with National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and National
Commission for Scheduled Tribes (NCSTs).
Role of NCSC: The Bill removes power of NCSC to examine matters related to backward classes. Currently,
under Constitution NCSC has power to look into complaints and welfare measures with regard to
Scheduled Castes (SCs), backward classes (OBCs) and Anglo-Indians.
Constitutional status to NCBC: The Bill seeks to make NCBC Constitutional body by inserting new article
338B in constitution composition, mandate, functions and various officers of NCBC. Article 338B will give
NCBC authority to examine complaints and welfare measures regarding socially and educationally
backward classes.
Backward classes: The Bill inserts article 342-A to empower President to specify socially and
educationally backward classes in various states and union territories. He can do this in consultation with
Governor of concerned state. However, law enacted by Parliament will be required if list of backward
classes is to be amended.
Composition and service conditions: The Bill mentions that NCBC will comprise of five members
appointed by President. Their tenure and conditions of service will also be decided by President through
rules.
Functions: Bill defines following duties of NCBC (i) investigate and monitor safeguards provided to
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backward classes under Constitution and other laws are being implemented (ii) inquire into specific
complaints regarding violation of rights of backward classes and (iii) advise and make recommendations
on socio-economic development of such classes. Union and State governments will consult NCBC on all
major policy matters affecting socially and educationally backward classes. NCBC will be required to
present annual reports to President on working of safeguards for backward classes. These reports will be
tabled in Parliament and state legislative assemblies of concerned states.
Powers of a civil court: The Bill gives NCBC powers of civil court while investigating or inquiring into any
complaints. These powers will include summoning people and examining them on oath, production of any
document or public record and receiving evidence.
August 4, 2018
Mosquito Terminator on Wheels: Special train flagged off to prevent breeding of mosquitoes in New Delhi
Delhi division of Northern Railway and South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) jointly launched
Mosquito Terminator on Wheels, a special mosquito terminator train to prevent mosquito breeding along
railway tracks in New Delhi. The special train aims to control and mitigate menace of mosquito breeding
in the burrow pits along railway tracks in New Delhi.
Mosquito Terminator on Wheels
For this train, SDMC has provided high power sprayer and insecticide on truck mounted power sprayer. It
has been loaded on special kind of wagon, which
ramkishan gugulotuwill spray insecticides
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | during train movement to sanitise
areas upto distance of 50-60 metres along rail tracks on Ring Railway. It will cover distance of 150km in
each cycle over by moving at speed of 20 kmph.
The train will pass through Hazrat Nizamuddin, Sewa Nagar, Lajpat Nagar, Lodhi Colony, Brar Square,
Delhi Safdarjung, Inderpuri, Patel Nagar, Delhi Kishanganj, Dayabasti, Sadar Bazar and New Delhi and will
cover other areas of NCR region.
There will be two rounds of spraying each week to cover peak mosquito breeding season totalling to 10
rounds/trips in 5 weeks. Indian Railways is also collaborating with three corporations in NCR Delhi to take
requisite measures to prevent breeding of mosquitoes in railway colonies and railway land.
Himachal Pradesh launches Shaur Nahin mobile application
Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Jai Ram Thakur launched ‘horn not ok’ awareness campaign and ‘shaur
nahin’ (no noise) mobile application in state capital Shimla. The campaign aims to spread awareness of
unnecessary blowing horn as it creates unnecessary noise pollution and is harmful to health. The first
phase of campaign has been launched in Shimla and Manali.
Shaur Nahin mobile app
The mobile application is initiative of department of environment science and technology in association
with National Informatics Centre (NIC), Himachal Pradesh. The app will enable general public to report
cases of noise pollution. It has settings for two types of users general public and officers both of whom will
be authenticated with an one-time password (OTP). Complaints received through this app will be
immediately made available to concerned deputy commissioner, superintendent of police, sub-divisional
magistrate and sub-divisional police officer who can later respond with the action taken report on the
application itself.
Chinese researchers create world’s first single chromosome yeast
Researchers from China’s Centre for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences have claimed to have created
the world’s first single-chromosome yeast while not affecting the majority of its functions. The
experiment was conducted on Brewer’s yeast having 16 chromosomes and which shares its one-third
genome ancestry with humans. Researchers were able to fit nearly all genetic material of Brewer’s yeast
into just one chromosome without affecting majority of its functions.
About Research
Researchers had used CRISPR-Cas9 genome-editing technology to create a single-chromosome yeast
strain. Using CRISPR-Cas9, researchers removed DNA at telomeres (ends of chromosomes that protect
them from degrading) and also snipped out centromeres, sequences in middle that are important to DNA
replication. Firstly in this process, researchers had fused two chromosomes and then joined product to
another chromosome and repeated process in successive rounds until there was only one chromosome
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left.
Significance
The research had revealed that number of chromosomes of eukaryote has no correlation with amount of
genetic information they possess. It also showed that all genetic information can be concentrated in just
one chromosome. It provides new approach to studying the functions of telomeres by simplifying complex
genome system. This research may help in furthering research related to aging and diseases in humans. In
future, it may also pave way for new man-made species in the future.
Lok Sabha passes National Sports University Bill, 2018
Lok Sabha has passed National Sports University Bill, 2018 by voice vote to set up the country’s first
National Sports University in Imphal (west), Manipur that will provide sports education, research and
coaching. The Bill replaces National Sports University Ordinance, 2018 promulgated by President in May
2018 to protect interests of students who already have been enrolled in National Sports University.
National Sports University Bill, 2017
The Bill establishes National Sports University in Manipur. It is mandated to promote sports education in
areas of sports sciences, sports technology, sports management, and sports coaching. It will function as
national training centre for select sports disciplines. The Bill empowers University to grant degrees,
diplomas and certificates. It also allows Government to establish campuses and study centres in other
parts of the country. ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Objectives of University
Research, development and dissemination of knowledge in physical education and sports sciences.
Strengthening physical education and sports training programmes.
Generating knowledge capabilities, skills and competence at various levels.
Training talented athletes to help them to evolve into international level athletes.
Background
The specialised university for sports will be first of its kind in the country and it will adopt best
international practices. Manipur government already has allocated land for proposed university. The
proposal to set up national sports university in Manipur was initially announced by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi. It was approved in 2014-15 budget with Rs. 100 crore allocation. This university is
expected to bridge gap that exists in sports environment of country in various areas such as sports
science, sports technology, high performance training.
Facebook launches Digital Literacy Library
Social networking giant Facebook has launched “Digital Literacy Library” to help young people build skills
they need to safely enjoy online technology. The lessons can be found on Facebook’s Safety Center as well
as on Berkman Klein’s Digital Literacy Resource Platform.
Digital Literacy Library
The library is resource for educators looking to address digital literacy and help these young people build
the skills they need to safely enjoy digital technology. It is a collection of lessons to help young people
think critically and share thoughtfully online.
There are 18 interactive lessons and videos have been developed in partnership with Youth and Media
team at Berkman Klein Center for Internet and Society at Harvard University for educators of youth aged
11 to 18. These lessons are in English language and Facebook is planning to launch these in additional 45
languages soon.
These lessons are divided into themes such as privacy and reputation, identity exploration, security, safety
and well-being and can be downloaded for free. They also represent voices of young people from diverse
socio-economic backgrounds, ethnicities, geographies, and educational levels.
Government withdraws proposal of setting up Social Media Communication Hub
Centre has notified Supreme Court that it has withdrawn proposal for setting up ‘Social Media
Communication Hub’. This comes after apex court had issued notice to centre earlier and had termed
Government’s proposal to monitor online data using this hub akin to ‘creating a surveillance state’.
Social Media Communications Hub
It was proposed platform to allow government to keep eye on all social media platforms — Twitter,
Facebook, Google+, Instagram, LinkedIn etc to gauge and analyse public sentiment towards various
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government policies and announcements, and track influencers. It main objective was to get sense of
public mood, with capability to track any individual’s public posts across these online platforms. It had
two aspects mass surveillance apparatus that aims at collecting and analysing huge volumes of data, and
profiling people based on that and utilising this data to predict mood of people online and issue responses,
including those targeted at individuals or groups.
For this, Broadcast Engineering Consultants India Limited (BECIL), a Public Sector Undertaking (PSU)
under Ministry for Information & Broadcasting had twice issued Request For Proposal (RFP) to supply,
installation, testing and commissioning (SITC) of software tool for the hub. RFI had specified that this
platform should be able to easily manage conversational logs with each individual through various social
media channels and facilitate in creating 360 degree view of people who are creating buzz across various
topics.
What is the issue?
The apex court had issued notice to Centre on a plea by Trinamool Congress (TMC) legislator Mahua
Moitra. The plea had mentioned that SMCH is expected to listen to conversations on all major digital
channels and also to be able to monitor email. Such intrusive action by Government without t authority of
law infringes the fundamental right to freedom of speech under Article 19(1)(a) of tConstitution Such
action of the government also violates the right to privacy under Article 21. Hearing the plea SC bench of
had observed that government wants to tap citizens’ WhatsApp messages. It will be like creating a
surveillance state.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana: Government achieves 5 crore Free LPG Connections Target
Union Government has announced that it has reached target of providing 5 crore free LPG connections
under Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) almost eight months ahead of schedule (i.e. in 27 months
instead of 35 months)
Key Facts
Uttar Pradesh (87 lakh), West Bengal (67 lakh), Bihar (61 lakh), Madhya Pradesh (45 lakh), Rajasthan (37
lakh) and Odisha (30 lakh) are six states that have accounted for nearly 65% of connections provided under
PMUY and 47% of overall beneficiaries are from weaker sections of society i.e., SC/STs. World Health
Organisation (WHO) has recognised PMUY as one of decisive intervention by Government to address
indoor air pollution which accounts for nearly 10 lakh deaths in year in the country.
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY)
Union Government launched PMUY in May, 2016 with tagline of Swachh Indhan, Behtar Jeevan. It aims at
providing clean-cooking fuel to poor households, who are otherwise vulnerable to various health hazards
associated with indoor air pollution and bringing in qualitative charges inliving standards.
Implementation: PMUY is implemented by Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas through its Oil
Marketing Companies (OMCs) i.e., IOC, BPCL and HPCL through their network of distributors across the
country. PMUY is under implementation in the all the States/UTs. Through it, cash assistance is given to
beneficiaries to get a deposit-free new connection. It is first welfare scheme implemented by Ministry of
Petroleum.
Beneficiaries of PMUY: They are are identified through Socio-Economic Caste Census (SECC) List-2011
and in such cases where names are not covered under SECC list, beneficiaries are identified from seven
categories which includes SC/ST households, beneficiaries of Antyodaya Anna Yojana, PMAY (Gramin),
Forest Dwellers, Most Backward Classes, Resident of Islands/River Islands and Tea Garden & Ex-tea
Garden Tribes.
Target: Initially, Government had set target to provide deposit free LPG connections under PMUY to 5
crore BPL households by 31 March 2019. Considering its huge success, government had revised target to 8
crores with budgetary allocation of Rs. 12,800 crore.
Telangana, Tech Mahindra ink MoU for India’s first Blockchain District
Telangana State Information Technology, Electronics and Communication department (ITE&C) signed
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tech Mahindra to launch India’s first Blockchain district. The
MoU was signed at International Blockchain Congress 2018 held in Hyderabad.
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Blockchain district
It will be centre of excellence, incubator and process development for emerging technology with
innovative infrastructure and facilities to foster growth of Indian blockchain start-ups and
companies. Tech Mahindra as its founding member will provide platform and technology assistance to all
incubators in it. It will also empower accelerators to develop and solve market problems across its global
customer ecosystem. Telangana ITE&C Department will provide regulatory and policy support to enable
and promote Blockchain growth both in India and globally.
Significance
Blockchain district will be global talent hub which can help to unlock value of blockchain technology in
democratising data and solving big scale world problems. It is also huge step in reskilling and right
skilling workforce of the future. It will provide an opportunity for blockchain ecosystem in India to
collaborate and work towards building a blockchain district in Telangana and transforming India as the
blockchain capital of the world.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain is decentralized incorruptible digital ledger for storing data across peer-to-peer network. It
decentralizes information without it being copied. Information is held on blockchain through shared
database which can be accessed on real-time basis. This database is not stored on physical servers but on
cloud, which makes it easy to store unlimited data.| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
ramkishan gugulotu
Advantages
Blockchain technology is not controlled by any single entity and has no single point of failure. It is
transparent and incorruptible. It is kind of self-auditing ecosystem of digital value and blockchain network
automatically checks every transaction that happens in it.
Applications
The most popular application of technology so far has been cryptocurrency. But it is not limited to,
financial transactions and can be also used in smart contracts, supply chain management logistics,
sharing economy, crowdfunding, governance, file storage and date management and Internet of Things
(IoT).
India elected as President of Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development
India was elected as President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD) for
period of two years. India got elected against Iran during voting which took place at 44th annual
gathering of AIBD held in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Moreover, Director General of All India Radio (AIR) F.
Sheheryar was also re-elected as chair of executive board of AIBD while Sri Lanka was elected as vice-
chair. Broadcasters from 26 countries in the region including India are full members of the organization.
Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD)
AIDB is regional inter-governmental organisation serving countries of United Nations Economic and
Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific (UN-ESCAP) in field of electronic media development. It was
established in 1977 under auspices of UNESCO. It is hosted by Government of Malaysia and its secretariat
is located in Kuala Lumpur.
AIBD is mandated to achieve vibrant and cohesive electronic media environment in Asia-Pacific region
through policy and resource development. Currently it has broadcasters from 26 full member countries,
represented by 34 organisations and 67 Affiliate Members (organisations) and over 50 partners in Asia,
Pacific, Europe, Africa, Arab States and North America.
August 6, 2018
P V Sindhu wins silver World Championships 2018 of Badminton
Ace Indian shuttler P V Sindhu finished second best winning silver medal at World Championships 2018 of
Badminton in women’s singles category held at Nanjing, China. It makes Sindhu only Indian to have four
world championships podium finishes. Earlier she had won two bronze medals at 2013 (Guangzhou) and
2014 (Copenhagen) editions.
World Championships 2018 Winners
Men’s singles: Kento Momota of Japan won the title (gold medal) with 21-13, 21-11 victory over China’s Shi
Yuqi. With this victory, he became the first Japanese man to win the Championships.
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Women’s singles: Olympic champion Carolina Marin of Spain won this title by defeating India’s P V
Sindhu by 19-21 10-21 score.. With this victory, Marin became the first woman shuttler to win the world
championships thrice. She had earlier won the title in 2014 (Copenhagen) and 2015 (Jakarta).
Men’s doubles: Chinese pair of Li Junhui and Liu Yuchen won the title by defeating Japanese pair of
Takeshi Kamura and Keigo Sonoda
Women’s doubles: Japanese pair of Mayu Matsumoto and Wakana Nagahara won the title by defeating
another Japanese pair of Yuki Fukushima and Sayaka Hirota.
Mixed doubles: Chinese pair of Zheng Siwei and Huang Yaqiong won the title by defeating another
Chinese pair of Wang Yilü and Huang Dongping.
GST Council announces cashback for digital transactions
The GST (Good and Services Tax) council in its 29th meeting held in national capital New Delhi has
approved cash incentives to promote Digital transactions. The GST Council meeting was chaired by
Interim Finance Minister Piyush Goyal. It has announced 20% cashback for digital transactions paid on
business-to-consumer transactions using RuPay and BHIM platforms, subject to cap of Rs 100 per
transaction.
Pilot Programme to promote digital transactions
GST Council also decided to start pilot programme to promote digital transactions. The pilot programme
will be implemented in any state on voluntarily basis. Maharashtra, Gujarat and Bihar will be the first few
states to incentivise digital payments. Incentivising of digital payments would help in maintaining a
better database by government, thus formalization of the economy.
MSME Sector
GST Council also focused on concerns and suggestions of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
It also formed Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Minister of State (MoS) for Finance Shiv Pratap Shukla
to address various issues faced by MSMEs. It will examine all proposals regarding tax relief for MSME and
make recommendations to GST Council. The group will submit its report in the next six weeks.
GST Council
GST Council has been established as per Article 279A of the Constitution. It is joint forum of the Centre
and the States to make recommendations on important issues related to GST. Union Finance Minister is
Chairperson of the council. Besides, Union Minister of State (MoS) in-charge of Revenue of finance and
Minister In-charge of taxation or finance or any other Minister nominated by each State Government are
its Members.
UK unveils new organ donation plan to address Indian-origin shortages
United Kingdom Government has announced new plans to change law for organ and tissue donation to
address urgent need for organs within Indian-origin communities in the country. The amendment in
existing law will propose new system of consent for organ and tissue donation. This will be known as
Max’s Law after Max Johnson, a 10-year-old boy who was saved by a heart transplant.
Key Facts
The changes in law will try to incorporate opt-in system similar to India, whereby families’ decision to
donate organs of their loved one after death is discretionary. This will come into effect in England in 2020
as part of a drive to help black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) people desperately waiting for a life-
saving transplant. Under this new presumed consent system, those who do not want to donate their
organs will be able to record their decision on state-funded National Health Service (NHS) Organ Donor
Register (ODR).
Background
The announcement comes as recent report titled ‘Organ Donation: Breaking Taboos Amongst British
BAME Communities’ had called on NHS to take more proactive action to address high death rate among
Indian-origin people in Britain due to low levels of organ donation within community. The report was
commissioned by Winston Churchill Memorial Trust and was aimed at studying low levels of donation
among BAME communities in the UK. According to this report, BAME communities are seen as generally
less inclined to opt for organ donation, largely due to deeply-entrenched cultural and religious beliefs
discouraging organ donation. In another report by NHS, it was found that 21% of people who died on
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organ donation waiting list in UK in 2017 were from BAME background. It also held that family refusal
continues to be biggest obstacle to organ donation among UK’s Asian communities
NHAI ink MoU with SBI for Long Term, unsecured Loan of Rs 25,000 crore
National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has singed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
country’s largest lender State Bank of India (SBI) for long term unsecured loan of Rs. 25,000 crore for 10
years with 3 years of moratorium on repayments. This is SBI’s highest long term unsecured loan to any
entity and also largest loan ever sanctioned to NHAI in one stroke by any institution.
Key Facts
The loan sanctioned by SBI is unsecured. It has no principal repayment liability for initial three years. But
after three years, repayment will be done in 14 equal half yearly installments. The total loan tenure is 10
years. NHAI can repay or prepay it at any time without any prepayment penalty. The rate of interest will
be based on one month marginal cost of funds based lending rate (MCLR). Interest accrued on amount
actually outstanding will be paid on monthly basis.
Background
NHAI traditionally relied on borrowing through long term bonds issued to various investors, including
LIC, EPFO and other qualified investors and Tax Free bonds and Masala Bond issued in year 2017. But
recently it had invited Expression of Interest (EoI) from Scheduled Commercial Banks (SCBs) to fund Rs.
25000 crore as unsecured loan for 10 years with
ramkishan 3| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
gugulotu years of moratorium | on repayments. In response to this
EoI, SBI had offered to fund t entire requirement of Rs. 25000 crore based on one month MCLR.
National Highways Authority of India (NHAI)
NHAI is an autonomous statutory agency of Central Government, responsible for management of network
of over 70,000 km of national highways in India. It was established through NHAI Act, 1988. In February
1995, it was formally made an autonomous body. It is nodal agency of Ministry of Road Transport and
Highways. It is responsible for development, management, operation and maintenance of National
Highways. It is headquartered in New Delhi.
Government extends deadline for imposing duty hike on 29 US products by 45 days
Union Finance Ministry has further extended deadline on imposing import duty hike on 29 products,
imported from United States (US) by 45 days till September 18, 2018 from earlier August 4, 2018. This
decision for extension of retaliatory measures for another 45 days was taken based on suggestion of Union
Commerce Ministry. It also comes after some positive expectations from ongoing talks between two
countries as they are wrapping up negotiations on mutually-acceptable trade package for boosting India-
US trade through greater market access.
Background
The duty hike move 29 products announced by India in June 2018 was tit for tat retaliatory measure to
March 2018 decision of US President Donald Trump to impose heavy tariffs on imported steel and
aluminium items. The additional duties imposed by India were aimed at helping government earn
additional $241 million, equivalent to amount of iron and steel trade affected by US measures. The 29
products included agricultural products such as almonds, apples, chickpeas, lentils, and walnuts, and industrial
inputs such as boric acid, phosphoric acid, diagnostic reagent, flat rolled products of iron, certain flat rolled
products of stainless steel. Prior to issuing duty hike notification, India has also had dragged US to World
Trade Organization’s (WTO) dispute settlement mechanism over imposition of import duties on steel and
aluminium.
Ajay Data: First Indian to get elected as ICANN ccNSO council member
The nominating committee of Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) has
selected Ajay Data as new council member of Country Code Supporting Organisation (ccNSO). With this,
he becomes first Indian to get selected as a member of ccNSO, which is policy development body of ICANN
for ccTLD (country code top-level domains) issues and represents all country code top level domain
operators from around the world. He has been selected for two-year term and will take up position during
ICANN 63 Meet in Spain in October 2018. He will be representing India at global level and will be also
custodian of Asia, Australia and Pacific Islands as member of ccNSO.
Ajay Data
He is founder & CEO of Data XGen Plus and global leader in email linguistic services. He is creator of
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world’s first email address mobile app and email solution for IDN (Internationalized Domain Names)
Domains. He was awarded Graham Bell Award for this innovation. He has been also credited for giving
access to World for Internationalized Email Address in 19 languages which is available through DataMail
app.
ICANN (Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers)
ICANN is private (non-government) non-profit corporation with responsibility of supervising domain
names on internet. It plays major monopolistic role in IP address space allocation, protocol parameter
assignment, domain name system management, and root server system management functions. It was
founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, California, United States.
ICANN is responsible for
Coordination of global Internet’s systems of unique identifiers.
Ensuring stable and secure operation of internet.
Coordination of the Internet Protocol address spaces.
Assignment of address blocks to regional Internet registries, for maintaining registries of Internet
protocol identifiers, and for management of top-level domain name space (DNS root zone), which
includes operation of root name servers.
DNS policy development for internationalization of the DNS system.
Introduction of new generic top-level domains (TLDs).
President gives assent to Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018
President Ram Nath Kovind has given assent (under Article 111) to Fugitive Economic Offenders Bill, 2018
passed by Parliament. With this assent, this Bill becomes law that will deter fugitive economic offenders to
evade legal process in India and flee the country. The law aims to serve as an effective, expeditious and
constitutional way to stop these offenders from running away.
Fugitive Economic Offenders Act, 2018
The new law defines fugitive economic offender (FEO) as any individual against whom warrants for arrest
is issued for his involvement in select economic offences involving amount of at least Rs 100 crore or more
and has left India so as to avoid criminal prosecution. It allows designated special court to declare person
as fugitive economic offender and to confiscate his property, including benami ones. It vests all rights and
title in confiscated property from date of the confiscation order in central government and it will be free
from all encumbrances. Enforcement Directorate (under Ministry of Finance) will be investigative agency
under the Act.
Negotiable Instruments (Amendment) Act, 2018
President also gave assent to Negotiable Instruments (Amendment) Act, 2018. It is aimed at allowing a
court to try offences related to cheque bounce expeditiously and direct the drawee to pay a minimum of
20% of cheque amount as interim compensation.
State Banks (Repeal and Amendment) Act, 2018
President also gave assent to State Banks (Repeal and Amendment) Act is to repeal two other laws State
Bank of India (Subsidiary Banks) Act, 1959 and State Bank of Hyderabad Act, 1956. It further amend the
State Bank of India Act of 1955.
ISRO postpones launch of Chandrayaan-2 mission
Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has postponed Chandrayaan-2, India’s second mission to moon
to January 2019. This will be second time mission has been postponed. The ambitious mission was earlier
planned to be launched in April 2018 and was later fixed for October 2019. With this delay, India may lose
fourth position in the world for soft-landing on the moon to Israel as it too planning to launch moon
mission in December 2018.
Chandrayaan 2 Mission
Chandrayaan-2 is India’s most challenging and India’s second mission to Moon. It is advanced version of
previous Chandrayaan-1 mission (launched in 2008) which only involved orbiting around moon,
Chandrayaan-2 is much complicated mission as it involves an orbiter, lander and rover.
The mission components have been completely developed indigenously by ISRO and consists of Orbiter,
Lander and Rover configuration. In this mission, ISRO will for first time attempt to land rover on moon’s
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south-pole. The mission involves soft-landing on lunar surface and rover that will walk and analysis
content on moon’s surface.
Chandrayaan 2 will be launched on board of Geosynchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle Mk III (GSLV-F10). It
will be ISRO’s first inter-planetary mission to land rover on any celestial body. The spacecraft (orbiter)
weighs around 3,290 kg and it will orbit around moon and perform objectives of remote sensing moon.
Once GSLV-F10 put spacecraft in 170 km x 20,000 km elliptical orbit, orbiter will be manoeuvred towards
100-km lunar orbit by firing thrusters and then lander housing the rover will separate from orbiter.
The six wheeled rover will move on unexplored lunar surface and collect soil or rock samples for on-site
chemical analysis to gather scientific information on lunar topography, mineralogy, elemental abundance,
lunar exosphere and signatures of hydroxyl and water-ice. The data will be relayed to Earth through
orbiter. The rover will move around landing site in semi-autonomous mode as decided by the ground
commands.
Note: The soft-landing on the lunar surface of the moon will be most complex part of Chandrayaan 2
mission. Only US, Russia and China have been able to soft-land spacecraft on lunar surface.
Government approves 122 new research projects under IMPRINT scheme
Union Ministry of Hume Resource Development (MHRD) has approved 122 new research project proposals
worth Rs 112 crore for funding under its IMPRINT-II (Impacting Research Innovation and Technology)
scheme. These projects were approved at IMPRINT-II Apex Committee meeting chaired by HRD Minister
Prakash Javddekar in New Delhi.
Key Facts
The 122 approved new research projects aims to advance research in energy, healthcare, security and
defence domains in the high education institutions. Of the selected 122 new projects, 81 are sponsored by
industry. The selected proposals include 35 (ICT), 18 (Advanced Materials), 17 (Healthcare Technology), 12
(Energy Security), 11 (Security & Defence), 9 (Sustainable Habitat), 7 Water Resource & River Systems, 5
(Environment & Climate), 4 (Manufacturing) and 4 (Nano Technology).
IMPRINT Scheme
IMPRINT is first of its kind MHRD supported scheme to address major science and engineering challenges
and boost original scientific and technological research in 10 technology identified domains in the
country. It was launched in November 2015 with an aim to develop new engineering education policy and
create road map to pursue engineering challenges. These 10 domains are Health Care, Computer Science and
ICT, Advance Materials, Water Resources and River systems, Sustainable Urban Design, Defence, Nano-
technology Hardware, Environmental Science and Climate Change and Energy Security.
IMPRINT provides overarching vision that guides research into areas that are predominantly socially
relevant. Initially under IMPRINT-I, IITs and IISC, were asked to identify major areas where India is facing
engineering and technology challenges. Now its scope also has been expanded private institutions along
with IITs and IISc under IMPRINT-II and jointly funded and steered by MHRD and Department of Science
and Technology (DST). The implementation of 142 projects under IMPRINT-I are already underway. These
projects have received support from several ministries, councils and departments in addition to MHRD.
RISECREEK: IIT-Madras develop first indigenous microprocessors under Project Shakti
Computer scientists from Indian Institute of Technology (IIT), Madras have developed first of family of six
industry-standard microprocessors under Project Shakti. The initial batch of 300 chips have been named
RISECREEK and have been fabricated at Intel’s facility at Oregon, US for free to run Linux operating
system. Project Shakti was started in 2014 as IIT-M initiative and part of it is funded by Ministry of
Electronics and Information Technology.
RISECREEK microprocessors
Their design is open source and can be adapted by others. They optimise power use and compete with
international units such as Cortex A5 from Advanced RISC Machines (ARM). They have better
performance in terms of DMIPS per megahertz rating than A5 and score of 1.68 against competition’s 1.57.
These viable industry-grade microprocessors can operate at frequency of 350 MHz, thus meets demands
of defence and strategic equipment of country such as NAVIC (Indian Regional Navigation Satellite) and
Internet of Things (IoT) electronics. These processors can also be tapped for future efforts in
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semiconductors.
August 7, 2018
Maitree 2018: India, Thailand joint military exercise held in Thailand
Joint military exercise Maitree 2018 between Indian Army and Royal Thai Army was conducted in
Thailand from 6 to 19 August 2018. It contributed immensely in developing mutual understanding and
bonhomie between armies of both countries in order to counter terrorism.
Exercise Maitree 2018
Maitree 2018 was platoon level exercise that comprises of infantry component. Its opening ceremony was
started with familiarization of organisation and display of weapons and equipment of both armies. It
mainly emphasized to hone tactical and technical skills in joint counter insurgency and counter terrorist
operations in rural and urban scenario under United Nations (UN) mandate.
The exercise laid due emphasis on increasing interoperability between forces from both countries which is
considered crucial for success of any joint operation. Both armies also jointly trained, planned and
executed series of well-developed tactical drills for neutralization of likely threats that may be
encountered in urban warfare scenario. Besides, experts from both sides also held detailed discussions to
share their experience on varied topics for mutual benefit.
Government launches Bidder Information Management System and Bhoomi Rashi – PFMS Linkage
Portals
Union Ministry of Road Transport & Highway (MoRTH) launched two IT initiative Bidder Information
Management System (BIMS) and Bhoomi Rashi and PFMS linkage aimed at expediting pre construction
processes relating to bidding and land acquisition respectively.
Bidder Information Management System (BIMS)
BIMS portal aims at streamlining process of pre-qualification of bidders for EPC Mode of contracts for
National Highway works with enhanced transparency and objectivity. It works as data base of information
about bidders, covering basic details, civil works experience, cash accruals and network, annual turnover
etc.
It allows assessment of pre-qualification of bidders from data already stored in portal to carry out
technical evaluation at much faster rate. It will be used by all project implementation agencies of MoRTH
for maintenance of technical information of civil works of contractors, concessionaires and for online
technical evaluation of civil works bids.
BIMS portal will be operated in conjunction with Central Public Procurement Portal (CPPP) portal for
invitation of bids for civil works for EPC mode. It will help to significantly reduce procurement time for
projects through objective and transparent online evaluation system thereby leading to accelerated
project implementation
Bhoomi Rashi
Bhoomi Rashi portal has been developed by MoRTH and National Informatics Centre (NIC). It comprises
entire revenue data of country, right down to 6.4 lakh villages. It makes entire process flow from
submission of draft notification by State Government to its approval by Minister of State (MoS) for RT&H
and publication in e-Gazetteis online. The portal has been created for expediting process of publication of
notifications for land acquisition. It will be utilized for issuing notification. It will play instrumental role in
reducing time taken for approval and publication of notifications pertaining to land acquisition
PFMS linkage with Bhoomi Rashi
The Bhoomi Rashi portal has been integrated with Public Financial Management System (PFMS) to
facilitate payment related to compensation for land acquisition to all beneficiaries directly through
Bhoomi Rashi system. It will make payment of Compensation by MoRTH to beneficiaries in real time and
without any parking of funds.
PFMS is web-based online software application developed and implemented by Office of Controller
General of Accounts (CGA) to facilitate sound public financial management system for Central
Government. It provides various stakeholders with real time, reliable and meaningful management
information system and effective decision support system, as part of Digital India initiative of Central
Government.
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Xingkong-2: China successfully tests first hypersonic aircraft

China successfully tested its first cutting-edge hypersonic “waverider” flight vehicle (aircraft) Xingkong-2
(Starry Sky-2). Waverider is flight vehicle that flies in atmosphere and uses shockwaves generated by its
own hypersonic flight with air to glide at high speed. Currently, United States and Russia have been
carrying out similar experiments.
About Test
The Xingkong-2 hypersonic waverider flight vehicle was released in air from rocket after about 10
minutes. After its launch, it flew independently, made large-angle turning maneuvers and landed in
targeted area as planned. During test, it had reached 30 kms in altitude at Mach 5.5-6 speed. The test
successfully proved various parameters of flight vehicle, thus marking successful launch of Xingkong-2
and first flight of Chinese waverider.
Xingkong-2 (Starry Sky-2)
The hypersonic waverider flight vehicle was designed by state-run China Academy of Aerospace
Aerodynamics (CAAA) in collaboration with China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation. It can
carry can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads. It has capability to penetrate any current
generation anti-missile defence systems due to its high speed and unpredictable trajectory. As compared
to it, current generation of anti-missile defence systems is mainly designed to intercept cruise and
ballistic missiles which are either slower orgugulotu
ramkishan easier to predict, | making them possible to intercept. In
addition to its military use, hypersonic waverider flight vehicle may also see civil use in the future.
Comment
The test showed that China is advancing shoulder-to-shoulder with US and Russia in developing
hypersonic waverider flight vehicle. China is expected to test this wave rider more frequently in future
before being handed over for final deployment to People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
Parliament passes Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018
Parliament has passed Criminal Law (Amendment) Bill, 2018 prescribing death penalty to those convicted
of raping girls below age of 12 years and making law against such sexual offences more stringent. The Bill
replaces the Criminal Law (Amendment) Ordinance promulgated on April 2018.
Key Provisions of the Bill
The Bill amends Indian Penal Code (IPC), Criminal Procedure Code, Protection of Children from Sexual
Offences (POCSO) Act and Indian Evidence Act. It provides for stringent punishment of jail term of
minimum 20 years or life imprisonment or death for rape of girl less than 12 years.
It provides punishment with imprisonment for rest of life or death sentence in case of gang rape of girl
below 12 years. It increases minimum punishment from 10 years to 20 years for crime of rape of girl under
16 years, which can be extended to imprisonment for rest of life. It also increases minimum punishment
for rape of women from rigorous imprisonment of 7 years to 10 years, which can be extended to life
imprisonment.
It provides for speedy investigation and trial of cases involving above offences, which must be completed
in two months. It proposes 6 months’ time limit for disposal of appeals in rape cases. It provides dedicated
manpower for investigation of rape cases in time bound manner.
It provides no provision for anticipatory bail for person accused of rape or gang rape of girl under 16 years.
It has also been provided that court has to give notice of 15 days to Public Prosecutor and representative of
victim before deciding bail applications in case of rape of a girl under 16 years of age.
It has provision for maintaining national database and profile of sexual offenders by National Crime
Records Bureau (NCRB). This data will be regularly shared with States/UTs for monitoring, tracking and
investigation including verification of antecedents by police.
Note: Four states already have brought in law after passing it through their respective assemblies for
capital punishment to those who rape girls below 12 years. The states are Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan,
Haryana and Arunachal Pradesh
Parliament passes bill to provide constitutional status to National Commission for Backward Classes
Parliament has passed Constitution (One Hundred and Twenty-Third Amendment) Bill, 2017 that seeks to
provide constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC). Now, the bill will
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be sent to President for his assent (as per 368 of Constitution). Parliament also passed separate bill to
repeal National Commission for Backward Classes Act, 1993 as it will become irrelevant once Constitution
(123rd Amendment) Bill comes into force.
The Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill provides for granting of constitutional status to NCBC on par
with National Commission for Scheduled Castes (NCSC) and National Commission for Scheduled Tribes
(NCSTs). It empowers President to specify socially and educationally backward classes in various states
and union territories in consultation with Governor of concerned state.
The bill provides duties of NCBC to investigate and monitor safeguards provided to socially and
educationally backward classes backward classes under Constitution and other laws being implemented
and probe specific complaints regarding violation of rights. It also provides NCBC with powers of civil
court while probing any complaint against notified socially and educationally backward classes.
Background
The Constitutional Amendment Bill was first passed with over two-third majority, with all 406 members
present voting in favour. It had passed bill by superseding amendments suggested by earlier by Rajya
Sabha by incorporating alternate amendments as well as some more changes. The bill passed by Lok
Sabha was again passed by Rajya Sabha in same format with absolute majority and over two-third
majority of members present and voting ramkishan
(All 156 members
gugulotu present| in the house voted in favour of the bill).
Note: Lok Sabha in April 2017 (Budget session 2017) had passed Constitution (123rd Amendment) Bill, 2017
and sent it to the Rajya Sabha. But in July 2017 (during 2017 Monsoon session), Rajya Sabha passed bill
after incorporating certain amendments moved by Congress-led opposition and returned it to Lok Sabha
for ratification of amendments. The amendments had increased three-member NCBC to five members so
as give representation to woman and person from minority community. It also had mandated that all five
members should necessarily be from OBC communities. It also had added another amendment sought to
protect federal structure by giving states significant role in making recommendation to the list. Among
suggested amendments, Union government had agreed to appoint one woman member from backward
classes in NCBC. Other amendments were rejected.
Lok Sabha passes Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Amendment Bill,
2018
Lok Sabha has unanimously passed Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities)
Amendment Bill, 2018 to reverse effects of Supreme Court order concerning certain safeguards against
arrests under SC/ST law. The Bill seeks to amend the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes
(Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989.
Background
Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989 protects marginalised
communities against discrimination and atrocities. It prohibits commission of offences against members
of SCs/STs and establishes special courts for trial of such offences and rehabilitation of victims. In 2018,
Supreme Court had expressed concern over misuse of Act and ruled against automatic arrest of booking
of accused under this law. It also had introduced provision of anticipatory bail. It had stated that for
persons accused of committing offence under Act, approval of Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) will
be required before an arrest is made. Further, Deputy Superintendent of Police (DySP) may conduct
preliminary enquiry to find out whether there is prima facie case under Act.
Features of Bill
The Bill states that investigating officer will not require approval of any authority for arrest of accused.
Further, it provides that preliminary enquiry will not be required for registration of First Information
Report (FIR) against person accused under Act. The Act states that persons accused of committing offence
under Act cannot apply for anticipatory bail. It also clarifies that this provision will apply despite any
judgments or orders of any court that provide otherwise, thus overturning SC judgment given in April 2018.
Scheduled Castes and Tribes (Prevention of Atrocities) Act, 1989
It is popularly known as Prevention of Atrocities (PoA) Act or simply Atrocities Act. Its prime objective is
to deliver justice to marginalised through proactive efforts, giving them life of dignity, self-esteem and life
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without fear, violence or suppression from dominant castes. The Act lists 22 offences relating to various
patterns or behaviours inflicting criminal offences and breaking self-respect and esteem of SC/ST
community. This includes denial of economic, democratic and social rights, discrimination, exploitation
and abuse of legal process.
The Act also provides protection to SC/ST community from social disabilities such as denial of access to
certain places and to use customary passage, personal atrocities like forceful drinking or eating of inedible
food, injury, sexual exploitation etc, atrocities affecting properties, malicious prosecution, political
disabilities and economic exploitation. The Section 14 of the Act For speedy trial provides for Court of
Session to be Special Court to try offences under this Act in each district.
Startup India launches Startup Academia Alliance programme
Startup India launched Startup Academia Alliance programme to fulfill Government’s mission to promote
spirit of entrepreneurship in the country. It is unique programme to foster mentorship opportunity
between academic scholars and startups working in similar domains.
Startup Academia Alliance
The programme aims to reduce gap between scientific research and its industrial applications in order to
increase efficacy of these technologies and widen their impact. It strives to create lasting connections
between stakeholders of startup ecosystem by creating bridge between academia and industry and
implement third pillar on which Startup ramkishan
Indiagugulotu
Action Plan is based – Industry Academia Partnerships and
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Incubation.
The first phase of the programme was kickstarted through partnering with The Energy and Resources
Institute (TERI), Regional Centre for Biotechnology, Council on Energy, Environment and Water and TERI
School of Advanced Studies. Renowned scholars from these institutes, in fields such as renewable energy,
biotechnology, healthcare and life sciences were taken on board to provide mentorship and guidance to
startups working in relevant arenas.
Startup India
The campaign was first announced by Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his 15 August 2015
address from Red Fort, in New Delhi. Activities under are implemented and monitored by Ministry of
Commerce and Industry. It aims to build a strong ecosystem for nurturing innovation and startups in the
country which will drive economic growth and generate large scale employment opportunities. The action
plan of this campaign is based on three pillars viz. simplification and handholding, funding support and
incentives and industry-academia partnership and incubation.
World’s first thermal battery plant to be unveiled in Andhra Pradesh
The world’s first-ever thermal battery plant owned by Bharat Energy Storage Technology Private Limited
(BEST) was inaugurated in Amravati, Andhra Pradesh. This plant aims to create new energy storage form
that is expected to have commercial applications, while also maintain low carbon footprint and less
dependent on external factors like weather.
Key Facts
The plant will begin its commercial operations from May 2019. BEST is planning to create a battery
capacity of 1000MW. This is expected to be upgraded to a 10GW capacity by 2025. The thermal battery is
based on alternative sources of energy production, and its presence is expected to reduce dependence on
fossil fuels. It provide energy solutions for electrical grids, transport and telecom services. Before we look
at its applications, here is a lowdown on the science behind thermal battery technology. This plant is
based on technology patented in India by Dr Patrick Glynn in 2016.
Working of thermal battery technology
Thermal battery use thermal energy to operate i.e. energy created by temperature differences. The energy
transfer in in this battery helps to store heat when heat travels from one part of battery setup to other. For
this transmission, thermal battery consists of two parts viz. cool zone (sink) and hot source (source.)
Both these sides consist of compounds known as phase-changing materials (PCMs), which can change
their state of matter on basis of physical and chemical reaction. When sink of thermal battery receives
heat, it transforms physically or chemically, thereby storing energy, while source cools down.
During operation, sink is cooled down, so it releases stored energy, while source heats up. Depending on
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nature of battery, system can derive heat from any source, which makes thermal battery very versatile.
For power transmission, thermal batteries can function as long as there is heat source.
How it is different from Conventional battery technology?

Conventional battery technology work on basis of electrical energy and is based on system of charging and
discharging cycles that are driven by electricity. For example Lithium-ion (Lion) battery, staple of many
electronic devices, consists of electric charges being transferred from electrodes. Energy is derived from
this battery, when lithium atoms turn into lithium ions (Li+), and get stored when this reaction reverses.
Benefits
Thermal battery is hailed as perfect alternative to non-renewable energy sources. It is considered to be
even better than solar energy. It will be energy source for power telecommunications services, electrical
grids, electric vehicles (electric buses, on a single charge expected to run for upto 800kms). It has lesser
heat sensitivity, and low carbon footprint these are better than Li-ion batteries and outperform solar
panels, which have expensive maintanence, and high weather-dependent operation. Solar batteries cannot
be charged or utilised to their optimum potential after sunset or even when the skies are densely clouded.
Though thermal batteries are priced at par with widely used Lithium-ion batteries, but they have low
carbon footprint and also last longer.
August 8, 2018
India has highest gender gap in mobile phone ownership amongst: Study
According to recent study released by LIRNEAsia, India has highest gender gap in mobile phone
ownership amongst 18 comparable countries and ranks among the lowest in women’s access to Internet.
LIRNEAsia is an information and communications technology (ICT) policy think tank that is involved in
pro-poor, pro-market research in Asia-Pacific since 2005. The study also included comparative research
done by ICT Africa in Africa and DIRSI in Latin America.
Key Highlights of Study
Ownership of mobile phones: Only 43% of women in India own mobile phones compared to almost 80% of
Indian males mostly because of lack of awareness. This difference is almost half of all other countries in
study including Pakistan, Bangladesh and Rwanda. There is substantial urban-rural divide in mobile
phone ownership with 71% urban penetration and 55% in rural. India’s urban-rural gap is comparable to
that in Nigeria.
Internet and social media usage: Women, rural citizens, and those with lower education or income
significantly lag behind in internet and social media usage. The gender gap in internet usage is
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accentuated in rural regions at 52% as compared to 34% in urban areas. India’s 57% gender gap in Internet
usage was surpassed only by Bangladesh and Rwanda. Its gender gap in social media usage was even
higher with wider divides only in Bangladesh.
Information about internet: In India, 64% do not know about internet which is higher percentage than
other countries except Pakistan and Bangladesh. 68% of this group was female and 68 % were from rural
areas. India’s internet use was at 19% which is lower than that of Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya and Cambodia.
E-commerce: Awareness of platforms for e-commerce was higher in India compared to Pakistan and
Bangladesh. In India, 27% mainly use social media, 16 % for entertainment and 15% for news. Higher
percentage of women used social media for marketing and educational content, while men used social
media to chat which is significantly more than women.
Political views on social media: Indian social media users share their political views at some of highest
rates. More than half shared their religion, 26% share their sexual orientation, and 70% shared their mobile
number or email address. Women shared information less than men in almost all categories except for
political and sexual orientation.
Distrust of news: India also has high distrust of news shared on social media and only 29% trust social
media news while more than half did not. India also saw higher online harassment than Pakistan,
Bangladesh and Cambodia at 19% of users. Much
ramkishan of this was offensive
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | name-calling and in 20% of such
cases, it led to reduced use of particular website.
Tokyo 2020: First Olympics to deploy facial recognition technology to increase security
Tokyo 2020 will be first Olympics to use facial recognition technology to increase security around all
venues. For this, games organisers have partnered with Japanese telecommunications and information
technology giant NEC to develop the first system of this kind to be implemented at an Olympics games.
Key Facts
The facial recognition technology will use IC chips within identification cards to automatically verify the
identity of those entering over 40 sporting venues. The system will not be aimed at spectators but instead
will concentrate on strengthening security and decreasing waiting times for athletes. This system will
help to prevent fraudulent entry by people borrowing, stealing or faking an ID card. The technology takes
only 0.3 seconds to match up face with pre-registered photo, making it world’s fastest such system. More
than 40 facilities, including main stadium, International Broadcast Centre, Olympic village and so on, will
have this system. More than 300,000 athletes and Games staff will have to submit photographs to
database before Olympics start in July 2020.
Background
Higher security is needed for people involved in Olympics as they enter important areas. Tokyo’s Olympic
venues do not always have enough space for security check or even space to wait for security check. When
events are happening, many people are expected to come. This is why we introduced this facial
recognition. NEC already has tested this technology during Rio 2016 Olympics and already implemented
in various locations, including airports. During demonstration, technology correctly had identified string
of people, including those in wheelchairs and of varying heights.
Earth at risk of becoming irreversible hothouse: Study
According to recent study, earth is at the risk of entering an irreversible hothouse condition – where the
global temperatures will rise by four to five degrees even if targets under 2015 Paris climate deal are met.
Hothouse Earth climate will in long-term stabilise at global average of 4-5 degrees Celsius higher than
pre-industrial temperatures with sea level 10-60 metres higher than today.
Key Highlights of Study
Currently, global average temperatures are just over 1 degree Celsius above pre-industrial and rising at
0.17 degree Celsius per decade. Keeping global warming to within 1.5-2 degrees Celsius as agreed in 2015
Paris climate agreement by around 200 countries may be more difficult than previously assessed.
Human-induced global warming of two degrees Celsius may trigger other Earth system processes often
called feedbacks that can drive further warming even if greenhouse gases emissions are stopped. Avoiding
this scenario will require redirection of human actions from exploitation to stewardship of Earth system.
The study consider ten natural feedback processes, some of which are tipping elements that lead to abrupt
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change if critical threshold is crossed. These feedbacks can turn from being friend that stores carbon to
foe that emits it uncontrollably in warmer world.
These feedbacks include permafrost thaw, weakening land and ocean carbon sinks, loss of methane
hydrates from ocean floor, increasing bacterial respiration in oceans, boreal forest dieback, Amazon
rainforest dieback, reduction of northern hemisphere snow cover, loss of Arctic summer sea ice and
reduction of Antarctic sea ice and polar ice sheets. These feedbacks tipping elements can potentially act
like row of dominoes. Once one is pushed over, it pushes Earth towards another.
Government raises import duty on 328 textile products to curb imports
Government has doubled import duties on 328 textile products to 20% from existing rate of 10% under
Section 159 of the Customs Act, 1962. Earlier in July 2018, Government had doubled import duty on over
50 textile products — including jackets, suits and carpets to 20%.
Significance
The increase in duties will give edge to domestic manufacturers as imported products are currently
cheaper. It will curb soaring imports from China and focus more on local value addition in labour-
intensive sector. This move will also help to promote ‘Make in India’ as imports of these goods had surged
drastically in last one year especially post GST. It will increase in manufacturing activity in various
segments of the entire value chain of textile sector, which will help to create jobs in sector, which employs
about 10.5 crore people. ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Background
The move comes amid mounting concerns that trade war between world’s biggest economies United
States and China will further aggravate dumping of cheaper products from China to Indian markets. As
such, India’s textile imports jumped by 16% to record $7 billion in last fiscal, with China accounting for
over 40% of purchases. Moreover, 28% hike in cotton prices by Government recently to ensure at least 50%
premium to farmers over costs is expected to raise basic raw material costs for domestic manufacturers
and could hurt our export competitiveness across value chains in the textile and garment sector.
Restricted Area Permit eased for foreigners visiting 29 Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Union Home Ministry has excluded 29 inhabited islands in Andaman and Nicobar from Restricted
Area Permit (RAP) regime under the Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963 till December 2022. This
decision aims to increase footfalls and promote tourism. Government is also planning to open 11 other
uninhabited islands to foreigners.
Key Facts
The lifting of RAP will allow foreigners to visit these islands without prior permission from the
government. However, citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan and foreign nationals having their
origin in these countries will continue to require RAP to visit Union Territory. Moreover, for visiting
Mayabunder and Diglipur islands, citizens of Myanmar will also continue to require RAP, which shall be
issued only with prior approval of Home Ministry. Besides, separate approvals of competent authority will
be required for visiting reserved forests, wildlife sanctuaries and tribal reserves.
Restricted Area Permit (RAP) regime
RAP regime has been notified under Foreigners (Restricted Areas) Order, 1963. Under it, foreign nationals
are not normally allowed to visit protected or restricted area unless Government is satisfied that there are
extra-ordinary reasons to justify their visit. Every foreigner, except citizen of Bhutan, who desires to enter
and stay in protected or restricted area, is required to obtain special permit from competent authority
having power to issue such permits to foreigner, seeking it. Citizens of Afghanistan, China and Pakistan
and foreign nationals of Pakistani origin are exception and are not allowed to enter such areas.
Government sets up GoM headed by Suresh Prabhu to decide on RCEP talks
Union Government has constituted four-member Group of Ministers (GoM) headed by Union Minister of
Commerce and Industry Suresh Prabhu to decide on 16-member Regional Comprehensive Economic
Partnership (RCEP) negotiations. It was constituted to advise Prime Minister on whether to continue with
or withdraw from RCEP negotiations.
Group of Ministers (GoM)
The GoM also includes Interim Finance and Power Minister Piyush Goyal, Defence Minister Nirmala
Sitharaman and Housing and Urban Affairs Minister Hardeep Puri. It has been mandated to find way
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forward from current deadlock over issues of joining RCEP or not. It will also help fine tune India’s
strategy for the upcoming RCEP ministerial meet in August 2018 in Singapore. Besides, it will also help to
finalize India’s position before RCEP Summit scheduled to be held in November 2018.
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)
RCEP is proposed free trade agreement (FTA) or comprehensive regional economic integration agreement
between the 10-ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines,
Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) and its six FTA partners (Australia, New Zealand, India, China, Japan and
Korea).
Its negotiations were formally launched at 2012 ASEAN Summit in Cambodia. Till 2017, 16 RCEP member
states accounted for population of 3.4 billion people with total GDP (in terms of PPP) of $49.5 trillion,
approximately 38% of the world’s GDP (combined GDPs of China and India makes up more than half that
amount) and 29% of world trade.
So far, objective of RCEP negotiations is to achieve modern, comprehensive, high-quality, and mutually
beneficial economic partnership agreement among ASEAN Member States and its FTA partners. The
coverage areas of RCEP negotiations included trade in goods and services, investment, intellectual
property, economic and technical cooperation, competition, dispute settlement, e-commerce, Small And
Medium Enterprises (SMEs) etc.
India’s concern ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
There has been rising pressure on India to allow more market access to RCEP member countries including
China and conclude negotiations by end of 2018. Several RCEP countries want India to open up its market
for 92% of traded goods, while they are still reluctant to allow Indian skilled professionals greater access to
their markets. India has maintained its position that it is ready to offer access for up to 85% of items, with
deviations for countries such as Australia, New Zealand and China, with whom it does not have FTA.
Besides, India also has trade deficit with 10 RCEP countries including China, South Korea and Australia,
among others.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana: Government, NABARD and NWDA ink revised MoA for 99
projects
Union Government, NABARD and National Water Development Agency (NWDA) have signed revised
Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) for funding of central share of 99 prioritized irrigation projects under
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) through Long Term Irrigation Fund (LTIF).
Key Facts
The revised MoA will enable Ministry of Water Resources to release Central Assistance to prioritized
projects under PMKSY as per requirements from time to time. For this, Department of Economic Affairs,
Ministry of Finance has modified certain existing mechanism of funding of these 99 projects under LTIF,
with reference to source of funds, liability towards servicing of coupon on bonds, repayment pattern of
loan and rate of interest on loan, etc.
Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)
PMKSY was launched in July 2015 with overarching vision to ensure access to some means of protective
irrigation for all agricultural farms in the country and to produce ‘per drop more crop’, thus bringing
much desired rural prosperity. It was formulated by amalgamating earlier schemes viz. AIBP, Integrated
Watershed Management Programme (IWMP) and On Farm Water Management (OFWM) component of
National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA). It is implemented by Ministries of Agriculture,
Water Resources and Rural Development. It has outlay of Rs 50000 crore with implementation period of
over five-year till April 2020.
Objectives of PMKSY
Achieve convergence of investments in irrigation at the field level.
Expand cultivable area under assured irrigation (har khet ko pani).
Enhance adoption of precision-irrigation and other water saving technologies (More crop per drop).
Improve on-farm water use efficiency to reduce wastage of water.
Enhance recharge of aquifers.
Introduce sustainable water conservation practices.
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August 9, 2018
AIIA inks MoU IIT Delhi to boost research in traditional medicine
All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA), a premier institute of Ayurveda under the AYUSH Ministry has
signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Delhi to boost research in traditional medicine and
streamline hospital care facilities in the country.
Key Facts
The MoU was signed at two-day conference of heads of AYUSH National Institutes organised by All India
Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA) aimed at upgrading the national institutes of traditional medicine at par with
the IITs and IIMs. Under it, the faculties of IIT Delhi and AIIA will work together in projects to look at ways
to integrate technology with Ayurveda. Under this partnership, projects developed will be given scientific
validation to ancient medical science and integrate it with technology.
All India Institute of Ayurveda (AIIA)
AIIA is apex institute for Ayurveda in the country under Ministry of AYUSH. It is located in New Delhi. It
aims at bringing synergy between traditional wisdom of Ayurveda and modern tools and technology. It
offers postgraduate and doctoral courses in various disciplines of Ayurveda and focuses on fundamental
research of Ayurveda, drug development, quality control, standardization, safety evaluation and scientific
validation of Ayurvedic medicine. It also has 200 bed referral hospital for facilitating clinical research.
MOPAD: SBIramkishan
launches unified payment terminal
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
India’s largest bank State Bank of India (SBI) has launched its Multi Option Payment Acceptance Device
(MOPAD) for digital payments convenience of merchants and consumers. It aims at providing digital
convenience to customers and ease of doing business for merchants at the same time. SBI will roll-out this
new initiative on all SBI PoS terminals in a phased manner.
Multi Option Payment Acceptance Device (MOPAD)
MOPAD also aims at providing convenience to merchants by eliminating multiple machines that they
keep in order to facilitate transaction from different sources. It will allow customers to make payments
through cards, Bharat QR, UPI and SBI Buddy (e-wallet) on single Point–of–Sale (PoS) terminal.
It will help merchants to integrate different kinds of transaction through one PoS machine, which will
help in eliminate their operational inconvenience and streamline cash flow. Customers will receive a
charge-slip as proof of payment after processing any type of transactions through MOPAD. This
multipurpose initiative will also enhance digital ecosystem and help bank in driving economy towards a
less-cash society.
Government launches Niryat Mitra mobile app
Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry has launched Niryat Mitra mobile application for exporters
and importers of the country. The app developed by Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO), the
largest exporters organisation of the country. It is available both on Android and on IOS platforms.
Niryat Mitra app
The app provides wide range of information required to undertake international trade right from policy
provisions for export and import, applicable GST rate, available export incentives, tariff, preferential tariff,
market access requirements – SPS and TBT measures. It provides all the information at tariff line. The app
works internally to map Indian Trade Clarification (ITC) Harmonized Item Description and Coding System
(HS) code of other countries with that of India. It also provides all the required data without users
bothering about HS code of any country. Presently, app has data of 87 countries. It also provides
notifications of export promotion programmes organised by FIEO to provide opportunity to industry to
participate in them.
Federation of Indian Export Organisations (FIEO)
It is apex and largest trade promotion organisation in India. It was jointly established in 1965 by Ministry
of Commerce and private trade and industry. It is responsible for representing and assisting Indian
entrepreneurs and exporters in foreign markets. It is headquartered in New Delhi.
NITI Aayog and CII launch partnership on SDGs
The NITI Aayog and Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) have signed Memorandum of Understanding
(MoU) on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and entered into three-year partnership. The MoU was
signed during Government and Business Partnership Conclave held in New Delhi. This partnership
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focuses on specific activities that seek to develop vision and action agenda for businesses and industries to
contribute to SDGs, annual status reports and sector-specific best practise documents.
Government and Business Partnership Conclave
It was jointly organised by NITI Aayog, CII and United Nations. IT witnessed participation from senior
officials from Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, Ministry of New and Renewable Energy, Ministry of
Power and Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation.
On sidelines of this conclave, CII also launched report—Indian Solutions for the World to Achieve SDGs. The
report deep-dives into each of SDGs, targets and business implications thereof. It also cites examples that
illustrate how companies have incorporated SDGs framework into their business strategy and gone about
achieving them.
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
CII is an association of Indian businesses which works to create environment conducive to growth of
industry in India. The headquarters of CII is located at New Delhi.
RBI to pay Rs. 50,000 crore dividend to Government for FY18
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has transferred surplus (dividend) of Rs. 50,000 crore to Government for
year ended in June 2018, over 63% more than Rs 30,659 crore which it transferred in 2017.
Significance of Surplus
RBI surplus forms sizeable chunk of revenue which government earns under head of ‘non-tax’, which is
mainly dividends distributed by state owned firms. With increase in RBI surplus by close to Rs 20,000
crore, Centre’s prospect of meeting fiscal deficit target (pegged at 3.3% of gross domestic product this
financial year) has improved based on fiscal consolidation and budget assumptions. The transfer also gives
Central Government more elbow room to infuse capital into public sector banks owned by it.
Earlier surplus transfers
Earlier in 2017, RBI had slashed surplus in the wake of demonetisation as its expenditure shot up largely
because of sharp rise in provisions and cost of printing currency notes. For year 2015-16, RBI board had
approved transfer of surplus amounting to Rs 65,876 crore to government. In 2014-15, it had paid Rs
65,896 crore to Government, which came as boon to Government in covering fiscal deficit target. The
surplus transferred to government was Rs 52,679 crore in 2013-14.
Provisions of surplus transfer
Technically, transfer of profits of RBI is provided in Section 47 of RBI Act, 1934. It states that after making
provisions for bad and doubtful debts, contribution to staff and superannuation fund, depreciation in
assets and for all matters for which provisions are made by or under Act or that are usually provided by
bankers, balance of profits is to be paid to Central Government. The RBI’s profits essentially represent
difference of income over expenditure.
RBI’s main source of income is interest earned on bond holdings through open market operations (OMOs)
or purchase and sale of government securities. Incidentally, YH Malegam committee had suggested in
2014 that RBI can transfer its entire surplus to government, without allocating anything to its various
reserve funds for three years because it had adequate reserve funds.
Following recommendations of Malegam committee, RBI had stopped transfers to internal reserves since
its accounting year 2013-14 which is now a part of expenditure. Moreover, Economic Surveys of FY16 and
FY17 also had pressed for bigger transfer of excess capital from RBI to Central government. It also had
warned that surplus transfer exercise should not undermine RBI’s independence.
Central Board of RBI: Centre appoints Swaminathan Gurumurthy and Satish Marathe as non-official
directors
Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) has approved appointment of Chartered Accountant
Swaminathan Gurumurthy and businessman Satish Kashinath Marathe as another non-official director on
Central Board of Reserve Bank of India (RBI). They have been appointed for period of four years.
Swaminathan Gurumurthy is Chartered Accountant by profession and is considered as Rashtriya
Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) idealogue and is associated with its affiliate Swadeshi Jagran Manch. He is also
the editor of Tamil magazine Thuglak. He had referred demonetisation decision as equivalent of Financial
Pokhran.
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Central Board of RBI

RBI’s business is overseen by Central Board of Directors. It is categorised into official and non0official
directors. It delegates the functions to its committees and sub-committees. Central Board of Directors
holds minimum 6 meetings every year. Out of which, at least 1 meeting every quarter is held. But typically
committee of central board meets every week (Wednesday).
Composition of RBI’s Central Board of Directors
It comprises RBI Governor, Deputy Governors (maximum 4), four non-official Directors which are
nominated by Central Government (each Non-official director represents the local Boards located in Delhi,
Chennai, Kolkata and Mumbai representing 4 regions of India). 10 Non-official Directors nominated by RBI
itself (These are persons having expertise in various segments of Indian Economy). Besides, there is one
representative (usually Financial Services Secretary) of Central Government nominated under Section 8 (1)
(d) of the RBI Act.
Pakistan, Russia sign agreement to allow Pakistani troops to receive training at Russian military training
institutes
Pakistan and Russia have signed contract on admission of service members of Pakistan in Russia’s
Military Training Institutes. The agreement was signed at conclusion of first meeting of Russia-Pakistan
Joint Military Consultative Committee (JMCC), the highest forum of defence collaboration between both
countries held in Rawalpindi, Pakistan. This will be for first time, Pakistani soldiers will undergo training
at Russian military institutes. This agreement is considered as sign of further strengthening defence ties
between Russia and Paksitan.
Russia-Pakistan Joint Military Consultative Committee (JMCC)
During inaugural JMCC meeting, both sides discussed present status of their defence relations with aim
to further strengthen, expand and diversify mutual cooperation. They exchanged views on bilateral and
major international issues, including situation in West Asia and Afghanistan. They also expressed
requirement of greater cooperative and collaborative approach among global community to defeat
extremism. Moreover, comprehensive issue-based review was also carried out during which both
countries expressed satisfaction on milestones achieved since signing of defence cooperation agreement
in 2014. They also discussed regional security situation and matters of mutual interest, including
enhancement of bilateral defence and security cooperation.
Background
Pakistan’s defence ties with Russia have moved past bitter Cold War hostilities in recent years, mostly
after chill in Pakistan’s relations with US. This has further pushed Pakistan close towards Russia and
China. Russia and Pakistan had defence cooperation agreement in 2014. This has further enhance their
bilateral relations. Both countries also have initiative military exercise DRUZBA (Friendship) in 2016.
NRIs cannot file RTI applications: Government
Government has informed Lok Sabha that Non-Resident Indians (NRI) cannot file Right to Information
(RTI) applications to seek governance-related information from Central government departments. It
mentioned that only citizens of India have the right to seek information under the provisions of RTI Act, 2005
and NRIs are not eligible to file RTI applications.
Right to Information Act 2005
This law was passed by Parliament on 15 June 2005 and came fully into force on 12 October 2005. It
mandates timely response to citizen requests for government information by various public authorities
under Central Government as well as the State Governments. The law imposes penalty for wilful default
by government officials. Citizens can ask for anything that government can disclose to Parliament.
Objectives of RTI are to empower citizens (as right to information is fundamental right of the citizens
under Article 19), promote transparency and accountability in working of Government, check corruption
and make our democracy work for the people in real sense.
Public authorities defined under this law are required to reply expeditiously or within thirty days of the
request. The law also mandates every public authority to computerise their records for wide
dissemination and proactively certain categories of information so that citizens need minimum recourse
to request for information formally.
Note: Information that can prejudicially impact internal security, relations with foreign countries,
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intellectual property rights, breach of parliamentary privilege and impedes investigations cannot be
shared with public under RTI. Cabinet papers are exempted from RTI until decision has been
implemented. However, discussions within Cabinet are never disclosed under RTI.
Delhi High Court decriminalises begging in the national capital
Delhi High Court has declared 25 sections of Bombay Prevention of Begging Act, 1959 which have been
extended to Delhi, as “unconstitutional”. With this, it has struck down legal provision criminalising
begging in national capital. The court’s order came on PILs which had sought decriminalisation of begging
in capital and beggar by challenging provisions of the Bombay Prevention of Begging Act. The PILs had
argued that poverty can never be crime and if a person is destitute and begs for living, such person cannot
be treated as criminal.
Delhi High Court Ruling
The court observed that people beg on streets not because they wish to, but because they need to. Begging
is their last resort to subsistence as they have no other means to survive. It also held that begging is
symptom of disease, of fact that person has fallen through socially created net. Government has mandate
to provide social security for everyone, to ensure that all citizens have basic facilities and presence of
beggars is evidence that state has not managed to provide these to all its citizens.
Criminalising begging violates most fundamental rights of some of most vulnerable people in our society.
People in this stratum do not have access to basic necessities such as food, shelter and health, and in
addition, criminalising them denies them the basic fundamental right to communicate and seek to deal
with their plight. State can bring in alternative legislation to curb rackets of forced begging, after
undertaking an empirical examination on the sociological and economic aspects of the matter.
Background
The Bombay Prevention of Begging Act prescribes penalty of more than 3 years of jail in case of first
conviction for begging and person can be ordered to be detained for 10 years in subsequent conviction. At
present, there is no central law on begging and destitution but most states have adopted Bombay
Prevention of Begging Act, 1959. This law functions as derivative figure for all state anti-begging laws. 20
States and two Union Territories have either enacted their own legislations or adopted legislations
enacted by other State.
Khangchendzonga becomes 11th Biosphere Reserve from India under World Network of Biosphere
Reserves
Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve in Himalayan state of Sikkim was included in UNESCO designated
World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR), making it 11th Biosphere Reserve from India to achieve
this recognition. The decision was taken at 30th Session of International Coordinating Council (ICC) of
Man and Biosphere (MAB) Programme of UNESCO held in Palembang, Indonesia.
Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve
It is one of the highest ecosystems in the world, reaching elevations of 1, 220 metres above sea-level. It
includes range of ecolines, varying from sub-tropic to Arctic (tundra), as well as natural forests in different
biomes, that support an immensely rich diversity of forest types and habitats.
Its core area is major transboundary Wildlife Protected Area. Its southern and central landscape which
makes up 86% of core area is situated in Greater Himalayas. Its northern part of accounting for 14% of area
is characterized by trans-Himalayan features.
The core zone of Khangchendzonga National Park already has been designated World Heritage Site in
2016 under ‘mixed’ category (first from India in this category). Many of mountains, peaks, lakes, caves,
rocks, Stupas (shrines) and hot springs in this biosphere reserve function as pilgrimage sites.
The core zone of this biosphere reserve alone has over 150 glaciers and 73 glacial lakes, the prominent is
famous 26-km-long Zemu glacier. It is also home to number of globally threatened fauna including musk
deer, snow leopard, red panda and Himalayan Tahr and many ethnic communities including Lepcha,
Bhutia and Nepalese.
Over 118 species of large number of medicinal plants are found in Dzongu Valley of this reserve which are
of ethno-medical utility. The transition zone of reserve is targeted for eco-development activities,
afforestation, plantation of medicinal herbs and soil conservation measures.
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Biosphere reserves
Biosphere reserves are areas of terrestrial and coastal ecosystems which promote conservation of
biodiversity with its sustainable use. They serve in some ways as ‘living laboratories’ for testing out and
demonstrating integrated management of land, water and biodiversity. They are internationally
recognized within framework of UNESCO’s Man and Biosphere (MAB) programme and nominated by
national governments. There is World Network of Biosphere Reserves (WNBR) under MAB Programme.
Within this network, exchanges of information, experience and personnel are facilitated. There are over
500 biosphere reserves in over 100 countries. India has total 18 Biosphere Reserves and with inclusion of
Khangchendzonga number of internationally designated WNBR has become 11 and remaining 7 Biosphere
Reserves are domestic Biosphere Reserves.
Man & Biosphere Programme
UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme was launched in 1971 with aim of promoting
interdisciplinary research, training, and communications in field of ecosystem conservation and rational
use of natural resources. The programme is suited to respond to results of the 1992 United Nations
Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED) and especially the objectives of the Convention
on Biological Diversity.
Selection of Biosphere Reserves
Primary Criteria: Site must contain effectively protected and minimally disturbed core area of value of
nature conservation. It should also include additional land and water suitable for research and
demonstration of sustainable methods of research and management. Its core area should be typical of
biogeographical unit and large enough to sustain viable populations representing all trophic levels in the
ecosystem.
Secondary Criteria: Areas having rare and endangered species, Areas having diversity of soil and micro-
climatic conditions and indigenous varieties of biota, Areas potential for preservation of traditional tribal
or rural modes of living for harmonious use of environment.
August 10, 2018
76th anniversary of Quit India Movement observed on August 8
76th anniversary of Quit India movement was observed on August 8th, 2018. On this day in 1942,
Mahatma Gandhi (father of the nation) had gave clarion call of Do or Die to all Indians to drive away
Britishers from the country.
Quit India Movement
Quit India Movement (Bharat Chhodo Andolan or August Movement or August Kranti) was an important
milestone in the Indian freedom struggle. It was civil disobedience movement launched at Bombay session
of the All-India Congress Committee (AICC) by Mahatma Gandhi on 8 August 1942 demanding an end to
British Rule of India.
It was launched after Mahatma Gandhi had made a call to Do or Die in his Quit India speech delivered in
Bombay at the Gowalia Tank Maidan on 7 August 1942. The movement called for India’s immediate
independence and aimed to force British Government to negotiating table by holding Allied war effort
hostage.
By launching this movement, Gandhiji hoped to bring British government to negotiating table as Cripps
Mission had failed and give strong footing against sending Indians to fight on behalf of Britain in World
War II. Quit India Resolution drafted by Jawaharlal Nehru and was moved by him on 8th August 1942 in
AICCC session and Sardar Patel seconded it. Under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, people across India
came together to uproot imperialism.
World Biofuel Day: August 10
World Bio-fuel Day (The International Biodiesel Day) is observed every year on August 10 to create
awareness about the importance of non-fossil fuels i.e. Green Fuels or Bio-fuels an alternative to
conventional fossil fuels. Bio-fuels are renewable, bio-degradable, sustainable and environment friendly
fuel. It can be seen as alternative to conventional fossil fuels.
Significance of Day
On this day in 1893, Sir Rudalph Diesel (inventor of the diesel engine) for the first time successfully ran
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mechanical engine with Peanut Oil. His research experiment had predicted that vegetable oil is going to
replace the fossil fuels in the next century to fuel different mechanical engines.
Observances
In India, World Biofuel Day is being observed by the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. This year it had
organized World Biofuel Day programme at Vigyan Bhawan, New Delhi. It had conducted separate
interactive sessions on ethanol, bio-diesel, bio-CNG and 2nd Generation biofuels.
Government initiatives to promote biofuels
Considering benefits of biofuels in reducing import dependency on crude oil, asmclean environment fuel
and generating additional income to farmers and employment generation in rural areas, Government has
undertaken number of initiatives such biofuels programme and increasing blending of biofuels etc.
The biofuels programme is in synergy with Government’s other initiatives for Make in India, Swachh
Bharat and doubling farmers’ income by 2022. Government’s major interventions in this sector includes
administrative price mechanism for ethanol, simplifying procurement procedures of OMCs, amending
provisions of Industries (Development & Regulation) Act, 1951 and enabling lignocellulosic route for
ethanol procurement.
Oil PSUs are also planning to set up 12 Second Generation (2G) Bio-refineries to augment ethanol supply
and address environmental issues arising out of burning of agricultural biomass especially in North India.
Government also has approved National Policy
ramkishan gugulotu on Biofuels-2018| in June 2018. It aims at reaching 20%
ethanol-blending and 5% biodiesel-blending by year 2030.

It also has expanded scope of feedstock for ethanol production and has provided for incentives for
production of advanced biofuels. Government also has increased price of C-heavy molasses-based ethanol
to boost to Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP). It also has fixed price of B-heavy molasses-based ethanol
and sugarcane juice-based ethanol for the first time at Rs. 47.40.
It also has reduced GST on ethanol for blending in fuel from 18% to 5%. Ministry of Petroleum & Natural
Gas is making all efforts to increase ethanol supply for petrol and has taken several steps in this direction.
Rekha Sharma appointed as Chairperson of National Commission for Women
Rekha Sharma (54) was appointed as chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW). Prior to
this appointment, she was member of the Commission and was holding the additional charge of
chairperson after Lalitha Kumaramangalam had demitted office in September 2017.
National Commission for Women (NCW)
NCW is a statutory body established under the National Commission for Women Act, 1990. It was
established in January 1992. It is apex national level organization of India the mandate of protecting and
promoting the interests of women. It also reviews constitutional and legal safeguards for women. It
recommends remedial legislative measures, advise Government on all policy matters affecting women and
facilitate redressal of grievances related to women. It regularly publishes monthly newsletter, Rashtra
Mahila, in both Hindi and English.
Parliament passes Homeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Bill, 2018
Parliament has passed Homoeopathy Central Council (Amendment) Bill, 2018 to replace Ordinance
promulgated by President in May 2018. It amends Homoeopathy Central Council Act, 1973 which sets up
Central Council of Homoeopathy and regulates homoeopathic education and practice
Supersession of Central Council: The Bill amends 1973 Act to provide for supersession of Central Council
with effect from May 18, 2018. The Council will be reconstituted within 1 year from date of its
supersession. In the interim period, Board of Governors constituted by central government will exercise
powers of Central Council.
Board of Governors: It will consist of up to seven members including persons of eminence in field of
homoeopathy education, eminent administrators, appointed by Union Government. The Central
Government will select one of these members as Chairperson of Board. With regard to policy decisions,
directions of the central government will be final.
Permission for existing homoeopathy colleges: The Bill states that if any homoeopathy medical college
has been established or if any established homoeopathy medical college has opened new courses or
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increased its admission capacity before ordinance was promulgated, then it will have to seek permission
from Union Government within 1 year. If homoeopathy medical college fails to seek such permission, then
medical qualification granted by it to student will not be recognised under this law.
R S Sharma re-appointed TRAI chairperson till 2020
The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC) has approved reappointment of Ram Sewak Sharma as
chairperson of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) for further period beyond August 2018 upto
September 2020, i.e. date on which he attains age of 65 years. He was in July 2015 named as TRAI chief for
three-year period.
Ram Sewak Sharma
Sharma is 1982 batch (retired) IAS officer of Jharkhand cadre. Prior to his appointment as TRAI chairman,
he had worked in various government departments particularly dealing with IT-enabled programmes. He
has also worked as Director General and Mission Director of Unique Identification Authority of India
(UIDAI) or Aadhaar.
Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)
TRAI is an independent regulator of telecommunications business in India. It was established in 1997
through Telecom Regulatory Authority of India Act, 1997. TRAI also fixes or revises the tariffs for telecom
services in India. Its mission is to create and nurture conditions for growth of telecommunications in
India to enable country to have leading ramkishan
role in emerging
gugulotu global information
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | society. It also provides fair
and transparent environment that promotes level playing field and facilitates fair competition in the
market. It also regularly issues orders and directions on various subjects such as tariffs, quality of service,
interconnections, Direct To Home (DTH) services and mobile number portability .
CCEA approves continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved continuation of Pradhan Mantri Gram
Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) beyond 12th Five Year Plan period ((2012–2017)). It will help in connecting 38,412
habitations at estimated cost of Rs. 84,934 crore. For this, fund sharing pattern between centre and states
will be same (Thus, central government share will be Rs 54,900 crore and states’ share is Rs 30,034 crore).
Key Facts
Initially targets of PMGSY were to be achieved by March 2022, however, sunset date of achievement of
PMGSY-I was pre-poned to March, 2019, with enhanced fund allocation and changed funding pattern i.e.
in ratio of 60:40 between Centre and State for all States except for 8 North Eastern and 3 Himalayan
States (Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Jammu & Kashmir) for which it is 90:10.
PMGSY-II and habitations under identified LWE blocks (100-249 population) covered by March 2020.
Under, PMGSY-II, against target length of 50,000 km works of upgradation almost 32,100 km road length
have been sanctioned in 13 states, which have transited to PMGSY-II. 12,000 km road length has been
completed up to March, 2018 against the sanctions issued.
Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
The scheme was launched on 25 December 2000. It aims to provide single all-weather road connectivity to
all eligible unconnected habitations in rural areas with population of 500 persons and above (in plain
areas) and 250 persons and above (in hilly states, desert areas, tribal areas and selected tribal and
backward districts). Union Ministry of Rural Development is nodal ministry for implementation of
Scheme.
For this scheme, 75 paise per litre has been earmarked out of cess levied on high speed diesel. It
considers habitation as unit for providing connectivity and not revenue village. The scheme encourages
use of green technologies and non-conventional materials (like waste plastic, geo-textiles, fly-ash, iron and
copper slag etc) for constructing rural roads.
CCEA approves continuation of Post Matric Scholarship for OBC Students for studying in India scheme
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) approved continuation and revision of Centrally
Sponsored Scheme of Post Matric Scholarship for Other Backward Classes Students for studying in India
(PMS-OBC) till 2020.
PMS-OBC is flagship scheme of Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, in operation since 1998-99. It
fully centrally sponsored scheme that aims to provide financial assistance to OBC students studying at
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post-matriculation or post-secondary stage to enable them to complete their education.

Revised PMS-OBC
The revision in PMS-OBC scheme aims to ensure effective implementation and better monitoring of the
schemes. It will cover larger numbers of eligible and deserving poor OBC students who will be able to
pursue higher studies. It will also ensure effective implementation, achieve de-duplication and enhanced
monitoring.
Under revised PMS-OBC, annual parental income ceiling has been increased from Rs. 1 lakh to Rs. 1.5 lakh.
Now onwards, 30% of funds will be earmarked for girl students and 5% for students with disabilities.
Disbursement of scholarships will be now through Aadhaar seeded bank accounts. Central assistance for
scheme will be released according to Notional Allocation since its funds are limited. Henceforth, concept
of Committed Liability will not apply to States/UTs for releases.
Cabinet approves release of pulses to States with discounted rates
Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has approved release of pulses to States/UTs at
discounted rate to be utilized for various Welfare Schemes from stock of pulses procured under Price
Support Schemes (PSS). The meeting was chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
Key Facts
Under this approved Scheme, States/UT Governments will be offered to lift 34.88 lakh MT of pulses at
discounted rate over prevailing wholesale market
ramkishan price of sourcing
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | state on First come first serve basis.
This will be one-time dispensation for 1 year period or complete disposal of 34.88 lakh MT of pulses stock
whichever is earlier. Government will spend Rs. 5,237 crore for implementation of this Scheme. The
decision will enable the States/UTs to use pulses in various Welfare Schemes like Public Distribution
Scheme (PDS), Mid-Day Meal Scheme, Integrated Child Development Programmes (ICDP) etc etc. besides
making available warehouses, which may be required in coming Kharif season for storage of commodities
procured under PPS.
Background
Pulses production was witnessed all time high during the last 2 years in the country. Due to bumper
production, Central Government also has made record procurement of pulses (45.43 lakh MT) during
Kharif 2017 and Rabi 2018 marketing season under Price Support Scheme. This was coupled with increase
in Minimum Support Price (MSP) will require additional procurement under Price Support Scheme.
Cabinet approves raising of four additional battalions of National Disaster Response Force
Union Cabinet has given approval for raising of four additional battalions of National Disaster Response
Force (NDRF) to strengthen the India’s disaster response set up. These battalions will be placed in Jammu
and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand and Delhi National Capital Region based on their disaster
vulnerability profile.
Key Facts
The objective of raising four additional battalions is to reduce response time keeping in view vast
geographic area of the country. These four battalions will initially be raised as two battalions in Indo-
Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) and one battalion each in Assam Rifles (ARs) and Border Security Force (BSF).
Later these four battalions will be converted into NDRF battalions.
National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
NDRF is India’s elite disaster mitigation combat force established in 2006 under The Disaster
Management Act, 2005. It is headquartered in New Delhi. It functions under Union Ministry of Home
Affairs. It works under National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) which lays down policies, plans
and guidelines for disaster management.
The mandated of specialized force is to undertake special disaster response, relief, rescue operations and
combat roles independently in the case of an event of any disaster (natural or man-made), accident or
emergency. It also assists local authorities in launching a quick rescue and response operation to save life
and property. At present there are 12 battalions in NDRF which are deployed strategically across country
to provide immediate response.
Lok Sabha passes Representation of People (Amendment) Bill, 2017 to allow proxy voting to overseas
Indians
Lok Sabha has passed Representation of the People (Amendment) Bill, 2017 by voice vote to extend the
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facility of ‘proxy voting’ to overseas Indians, on the lines of service voters. The Bill seeks to amend
Representation of People Act (RPA), 1950 and Representation of People Act (RPA), 1951 to allow for proxy
voting and make certain provisions of these Acts gender-neutral.
Background
RPA, 1950 provides for allocation of seats and delimitation of constituencies for elections (state assembly
and Lok Sabha elections), qualifications of voters, and preparation of electoral rolls. It permits registration
of persons in electoral rolls who are ordinarily resident in constituency. These persons include persons
holding service qualification (such as member of armed forces, member of armed police force of state,
serving outside state or central government employees posted outside India and persons holding certain
offices in India declared by President in consultation with Election Commission. Under it wives of such
persons are also deemed to be ordinarily residing in India. RPA, 1951 provides for conduct of elections and
offences and disputes related to elections. It permits an overseas voter to vote only in person. In this case
overseas voter is citizen of India who is absent from his place of ordinary residence in India. Currently, only
service personnel are permitted to vote through proxy.
The Bill replaces the term ‘wife’ with ‘spouse’ in both Acts. It replaces wife with spouse of a person holding
service qualification to vote. It amends RPA, 1951 to permit overseas voter to cast their vote in person or
by proxy in constituency where electionsramkishan
are being conducted. |
Significance
According to rough estimates, there are about 1 crore Indians settled abroad, of which 60 lakh may be
within eligible voting age. By granting them proxy voting rights, overseas Indians will be able to exercise
franchise during elections and also need not to spend foreign currency to come to India during elections.
Moreover, this decision will also enable overseas Indian to considerably sway in election results, especially
in states such as Punjab, Kerala and Gujarat where a number of expats hail from.
Cabinet extends tenure of Commission constituted to examine issue of OBC sub-categorisation
Union Cabinet has approved extension of term of Commission to examine the issue of Sub-categorization
of Other Backward Classes (OBCs) in Central List till November 2018. This is third extension granted to
commission for submission of its politically crucial report on creating quotas within quotas.
Background
The five member Commission was constituted under article 340 of Constitution in October, 2017 with
approval of President. It is headed by former Chief Justice of Delhi High Court Justice (Retd) G. Rohini. Its
report was to be submitted within three months (i.e. by January 2018). But since then, it has sought and
was granted extensions twice citing voluminous nature of its task.
The commission has been formed under Article 340 of the Constitution which was also used to establish
landmark Mandal Commission (set up in 1979) more than two decades ago which recommended 27%
reservation for socially and educationally backward classes in higher education and government jobs.
Over the years, benefits of this reservation was mostly cornered mostly by dominant OBC groups. The
sub-categorisation commission’s report is expected to recommend earmarking sub-quotas for the
extremely backward classes within the OBCs.
Even National Commission for Backward Classes had in 2015 had noted that unequals cannot be treated
equally and recommended that OBCs be categorised into extremely backward classes, more backward
classes and backward classes. At present, 11 states have sub-categorised OBCs for their state services.
Centre based on devise a similar methodology for the central OBC list
Mandate of Commission
The Sub-categorisation commission was tasked to examine extent of inequitable distribution of benefits of
reservation among castes included in broad category of OBC in central government jobs and educational
institutions especially with reference to OBCs included in Central list.
It was also tasked to take up exercise of identifying respective castes, sub-castes, communities synonyms
in Central List of OBCs and classify them into their respective sub-categories. It is mandated was to work
out mechanism, norms, criteria and parameters, in scientific approach, for sub-categorization within such
OBCs.
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August 11, 2018

IMF forecasts 7.3% GDP growth for India in 2018-19 and 7.5% in 2019-20
The International Monetary Fund (IMF) in its report has projected India’s GDP growth 7.3% in the 2018-19
fiscal and 7.5% in 2019-2020 on strengthening of investment and robust private consumption. India’s
near-term macroeconomic outlook for India is broadly favourable.
Key Highlights of IMF Report
Headline inflation: It is projected to rise to 5.2% in fiscal year 2018/19, as demand conditions tighten, along
with recent depreciation of rupee and higher oil prices, housing rent allowances and agricultural
minimum support prices. But it has averaged 3.6% in fiscal year 2017/18 which 17-year low, reflecting low
food prices on return to normal monsoon rainfall, agriculture sector reforms, subdued domestic demand
and currency appreciation.
Current account deficit (CAD): It is projected to widen further to 2.6% of GDP on rising oil prices and
strong demand for imports. CAD will be offset by slight increase in remittances
Financial sector reforms: They have been undertaken to address twin balance sheet problems, as well as
to revive bank credit and enhance efficiency of credit provision by accelerating cleanup of bank and
corporate balance sheets. India’s stability-oriented macro-economic policies and progress on structural
reforms are continuing to bear fruit.
Way Forward: Continued fiscal consolidation is needed for India to lower elevated public debt levels,
supported by simplifying and streamlining GST structure. Further, while important steps have been taken
to improve recognition of Non-Performing Assets (NPAs) and recapitalise Public Sector Banks (PSBs),
more needs to be done. Persistently-high household inflation expectations and large general government
fiscal deficits and debt are still key macroeconomic challenges.
PSB Reforms: Large fraud in PSBs highlights financial sector weaknesses and underscores need for
government to take further steps to improve PSBs’ governance and operations, including by considering
more aggressive disinvestment.
Economic risks: Domestic economic risks are tilted to downside and external side risks include further
increase in international oil prices, tighter global financial conditions, retreat from cross-border
integration including spillover risks from global trade conflict and rising regional geopolitical tensions.
Domestic risks pertain to tax revenue shortfalls related to continued GST implementation issues and
delays in addressing twin balance sheet problems and other structural reforms.
IFFCO forays into food processing, forms JV with Spainish firm
Fertiliser major IFFCO has entered into joint venture with Congelados De Navarra to set up food
processing plant at Ludhiana in Punjab with an investment of Rs 325 crore. With this joint venture, co-
operative IFFCO for first time will foray into food processing sector. Congelados De Navarra company
based in Spain is pioneer in quick frozen (IQF) technology. It is into processing of vegetables, fruits, herbs
and ready-made pre-cooked dishes.
Key Facts
In the JV, IFFCO will have 30% stake while Congelados De Navarra will have the remaining 70% stake. This
company will invest about Rs 325 crore to set up greenfield food processing unit. The proposed plant will
source produce like potatoes, peas and cauliflower from farmers and then process them for sale in
domestic and exports market.
IFFCO’s foray into food processing business will benefit of farmers. It will also contribute in the
government’s goal to double farmers income by 2022, he added. This new facility food processing facility
will also generate 400 direct and 5,000 indirect local jobs in Punjab.
Indian Farmers Fertiliser Cooperative Limited (IFFCO)
IFFCO is large scale fertiliser cooperative federation in India which is registered as Multistate Cooperative
Society. It is one of India’s biggest cooperative society which is wholly owned by Indian Cooperatives. It
was founded in 1967 with just 57 cooperatives and at present it has amalgamation of over 36,000 Indian
Cooperatives with diversified business interests ranging from General Insurance to Rural Telecom apart
from its core business of manufacturing and selling fertilisers. It is headquartered in New Delhi.
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Lok Sabha passes Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2018

The Lok Sabha has passed Arbitration and Conciliation (Amendment) Bill, 2018 to help India become hub
for domestic and global arbitration for settling commercial disputes. It seeks to amend e Arbitration and
Conciliation Act, 1996 which contains provisions to deal with domestic and international arbitration and
defines law for conducting conciliation proceedings.
Salient features of Bill
Arbitration Council of India (ACI): The Bill establishes ACI as an independent body for promotion of
arbitration, mediation, conciliation and other alternative dispute redressal mechanisms. It will frame
policies for grading arbitral institutions and accrediting arbitrators, make policies for establishment,
operation and maintenance of uniform professional standards for all alternate dispute redressal matters
and maintain depository of arbitral judgments (awards) made in India and abroad.
Composition of ACI: It will consist of Chairperson who is either Judge of Supreme Court or Judge of High
Court or Chief Justice of High Court or eminent person with expert knowledge in conduct of arbitration.
Its other members will include eminent arbitration practitioner, academician with experience in
arbitration and government appointees.
Appointment of arbitrators: The Bill allows Supreme Court and High Courts to designate arbitral
institutions, which parties can approach for appointment of arbitrators. For international commercial
arbitration, appointments will be maderamkishan
by gugulotu
institution designated by Supreme Court. The institution
designated by concerned High Court will make appointments for domestic arbitration appointments. In
case there are no arbitral institutions available, then concerned High Court Chief Justice can maintain
panel of arbitrators to perform functions of arbitral institutions. The application for appointment of
arbitrator is required to be disposed of within 30 days.
Relaxation of time limits: The Bill proposed to remove time restriction for international commercial
arbitrations. Earlier under the parent Act, arbitral tribunals were required to make their award within
period of 12 months for all arbitration proceedings.
Completion of written submissions: The Bill requires written claim and defence to claim in arbitration
proceeding should be completed within six months of appointment of arbitrators. Currently, there is no
time limit to file written submissions before an arbitral tribunal.
Confidentiality of proceedings: The Bill provides that all details of arbitration proceedings will be kept
confidential except for the details of the arbitral award in certain circumstances. Disclosure of the arbitral
award will only be made where it is necessary for implementing or enforcing the award.
Parliament passes Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Second Amendment) Bill, 2018
Parliament has passed Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Bill, 2018 to bring relief to home
buyers and Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). The Bill replaces ordinance promulgated in
this regard and amends Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code, 2016.
The Bill recognises home buyers as financial creditors in the real estate project and giving them due
representation in the Committee of Creditors (CoC), thus providing significant relief to home buyers. It
will allow home buyers to invoke Section 7 of IBC, 2016 against errant developers.
This will allow financial creditors to file application seeking insolvency resolution process. As financial
creditors, home buyers will be able to participate in decision-making process when developers are
declared bankrupt under IBC, 2016. The bill also proposes to reduce minimum voting threshold for
Committee of Creditors (CoC) to 66%, from 75% for key decisions.
Besides, the Bill also benefits Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) sector from IBC. It allows
promoter of MSME to bid for their own enterprise undergoing the insolvency resolution process as long
as they are not wilful defaulters.
Background
The IBC, 2016 provides time-bound process to resolution of insolvency among companies and individuals.
Insolvency is situation where individual or company is unable to repay their outstanding debt.
Government in November 2017 had set up Insolvency Law Committee to review IBC and identify issues in
its implementation and suggest changes. The Committee had made several recommendations such as
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exempting MSMEs from certain provisions of IBC, treating allottees under real estate project as financial
creditors, reducing voting thresholds of committee of creditors (CoC), among others. Subsequently,
President had promulgated Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (Amendment) Ordinance, 2018 in June 2018
after approval of Central Government.
Index of Industrial Production (IIP): Industrial output records 5-month high growth of 7% in June 2018
According to data released by Central Statistics Office (CSO), factory output measured in terms of Index of
Industrial Production (IIP) had 7% in June 2018, five-month high. This was on account of higher output in
mining, manufacturing and power generation segments. Moreover, CSO also revised IIP upwards for May
2018 at 3.9% from previous estimate of 3.2% estimated earlier.
Key Facts
The cumulative IIP growth for period April-June 2018 was 5.2% over corresponding period of previous
year. The manufacturing sector in June 2018 grew by 6.9%, as against decline of 0.7% in the year-ago
month. Power generation segment grew by 8.5% in June against 2.1% growth year ago. The mining sector
output recorded 6.6% growth in June against 0.1% in June 2017.
Index of Industrial Production (IIP)
IIP is composite indicator that measures short-term changes in volume of production of basket of
industrial products during given period with respect to chosen base period. It is compiled and published
monthly by Central Statistical Organization (CSO),
ramkishan Ministry of Statistics
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | and Programme Implementation.
Base year: The CSO had revised the base year of the IIP from 2004-05 to 2011-12 in May 2017 to capture
structural changes in economy and improves quality and representativeness of indices. The revised IIP
(2011-12) reflects changes in industrial sector and also aligns it with base year of other macroeconomic
indicators like Wholesale Price Index (WPI) and Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
Sector wise items and weightages: IIP covers 407 item groups. Sector wise, the items included falls into 3
categories viz. Manufacturing (405 items), Mining (1 items) & Electricity (1 item). The weights of the three
sectors are 77.63%, 14.37%, 7.9% respectively. The revised combined weightage of eight core Industries in
the IIP is 40.27%.
Axis Bank first to introduce iris authentication for Aadhaar-based transactions
Axis Bank became first bank in the country to introduce Iris Scan Authentication feature for Aadhaar-based
transactions through its micro ATM tablets. These micro ATM tablets are Standardisation Testing and
Quality Certification (STQC) certified and UIDAI compliant registered devices with completely integrated
iris sensors.
How it works?
The transaction process through iris scan is very simple. Customer need to select desired service (funds
transfer, cash withdrawal) and feed-in their Aadhaar numbers in micro ATM. Next, they have to choose
IRIS as desired mode of authentication. Verification will be done by scanning eyes of customers through
tablet’s iris sensor camera in 3-5 seconds. The transaction will be completed after biometric details are
verified from UIDAI database.
Axis Bank is presently running pilot program of iris-based Aadhaar authentication for its customers at
eight branches in rural segment largely covering areas of Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat and Andhra Pradesh. It
is also exploring its application for varied services such as loan processing, insurance, eKYC account
opening and others, most likely extending to the semi-urban and urban regions as well.
Significance
Iris scan technology is completely contactless and provides up to 98.2% authentication success rate and
offers edge over other prevalent biometric modes. It will help to boost bank’s financial inclusion efforts by
making Aadhaar authentication process hassle-free and offering easier access to digital banking for
consumers especially in rural parts of the country. Micro ATMs completely eliminate requirement of debit
cards, passwords, PINs, and user IDs, and empower consumers to avail banking services using only their
Aadhaar numbers and biometrics (iris scan or fingerprint scan).
Operation Madad and Operation Sahyog launched to rescue people in flood-hit Kerala
Indian Navy has launched Operation Madad, major rescue and relief operation in flood-hit Kerala. Indian
Army also has launched Operation Sahyog to rescue people in flood-hit Kerala. Both operations will
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support rescue and relief efforts of civil administration and National Disaster Relief Force (NDRF).
Operation Madad
The operation was launched to assist state administration and undertake disaster relief operations due to
unprecedented flooding in many parts of Kerala following incessant rainfall and release of excess water
from Idukki and other dams. Under it, Naval helicopters were also deployed for ferrying divers, power
tools, axes and relief material to flooded areas to augment ongoing relief operations. Moreover, 50-men
contingent was also positioned at Naval Armament Depot (NAD) Aluva fully equipped for assistance in any
kind of eventuality. In addition, Naval Hospital, INHS Sanjivani also rendered medical assistance as
required. Naval personnel from INS Venduruthy also have set up community kitchen.
Operation Sahyog
Indian Army has deployed its men and machinery into disaster relief and rescue operations at Kannur,
Kozhikode, Wayanad and Idukki after incessant rain and landslides hit various northern districts of the
state. Karnataka and Kerala Sub area Headquartered at Bangalore was controlling the “Operation Sahyog”
in Kerala. It has deployed total of eight columns of army personnel in various parts of Kerala in which two
columns were exclusively kept for worst-hit Idukki district. In addition, 80 army personnel from Madras
Regiment were deployed for ongoing rescue and relief operation for tourists at Pallivasal in Idukki. The
army constructed temporary bridges for the evacuations of the stranded people from the isolated villages.
Michelle Bachelet: Former Chilean president
ramkishan gugulotu |appointed UN High
ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | Commissioner for Human Rights
Former Chilean president Michelle Bachelet (66) was appointed as next United Nations High
Commissioner for Human Right. She was nominated by UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres and her
appointment was approved by UN General Assembly. She will have four year term and shall replace
Jordanian diplomat Zeid Ra’ad al-Hussein (served a single term, beginning in 2014). Bachelet most
recently had served as President (first women) of Chile (from 2014 to 2018 and 2006 to 2010). She was first
Executive Director of UN-Women between 2010 and 2013. She has also served as Minister of Defence and
Minister of Health in Chile.
UN Human Rights High Commissioner
He/she is mandated to promote and protect the universal exercise and full realization of human rights,
across the world, as established in UN Charter. He/she is also principal official who speaks out for human
rights across whole UN system, strengthening human rights mechanisms, enhancing equality, fighting
discrimination in all its forms, strengthening accountability and rule of law, widening democratic space
and protecting most vulnerable from all forms of human rights abuse. The Office was created in 1993.
Bachelet will be overall seventh High Commissioner since its creation. Her predecessor Zeid Ra’ad Al-
Hussein has been in office since 1 September 2014. His predecessors are: Jos Ayala-Lasso (1994-97); Mary
Robinson (1997-2002); Sergio Vieira de Mello (2002-03); Louise Arbour (2004-08); and Navi Pillay
(2008-14).
August 13, 2018
Government announces 50% reservation for women in RPF jawans recruitment
Union Government has announced 50% reservation for women in upcoming recruitment of 9500-10000
jawans for the Railway Protection Force (RPF). This decision aims to create more employment
opportunities for women. It was announced by Union Railways Minister Piyush Goyal in Patna, Bihar. He
also announced 13,00,00 jobs are also coming up in Indian Railways in which there will be computer-based
test and no interviews.
Railway Protection Force (RPF)
RPF is security force entrusted with protecting railway passengers, passenger area and railway property
of the Indian Railways. It was introduced for the first time in the central act of 1957. It is headquartered in
New Delhi. It functions under the authority of Union Ministry of Railways. It has powers to arrest,
investigate and prosecute criminals under its jurisdiction.
Projects for Defence Industrial Corridor launched in Aligarh, UP
The projects for defence industrial corridor in Aligarh, Uttar Pradesh were launched recently by Union
Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. It was launched
as part of the Union Government’s efforts to develop specialised zones dedicated to defence production in
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the state.
Key Facts
As part of defence corridor in UP, six nodal points, Agra, Aligarh, Lucknow, Kanpur, Chitrakoot and Jhansi
have been identified. There will be exhibition of products by armed forces, defence public sector
undertakings (PSUs) and Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) which are planned to
be indigenised over the next five years.
Background
Defence Manufacturing was identified as one of the 25 key sectors as part of Make in India initiative. In
2018-19 Union Budget, Government had announced setting up of two corridors – one in Tamil Nadu and
other in UP- exclusively for defence manufacturing. The main purpose of setting of these two corridors is
for inclusion of Indigenous Design, Development and Manufacture (IDDM) category and giving it top
priority in capital acquisition, introduction of make procedure and simplification of licensing process and
modification of offset policy.
International Youth Day observed on August 12 with theme Safe Spaces for Youth
International Youth Day is observed every across the world on 12 August to draw attention to give set of
cultural and legal issues surrounding youth. Observance of this day seeks to highlight role of young
women and men as essential partners in change and opportunity to raise awareness of challenges and
problems facing the world’s youth. ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
The theme for this year is ‘Safe Spaces for Youth’. It aims to highlight need of safe spaces where youth can
come together, engage in activities related to their diverse needs and interests, participate in decision
making processes and freely express themselves. The theme supports 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development, specifically Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11, emphasizes need for provision of space
towards inclusive and sustainable urbanization.
International Youth Day (IYD)
It was instituted by the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by passing resolution 54/120 in
December 1999. It was first observed on 12 August, 2000. The day was instituted by UNHA on the
recommendation made by the World Conference of Ministers Responsible for Youth held in Lisbon
(Portugal) from 8 to 12 August 1998. The first IYD was observed on 12 August, 2000.
Background
There are currently 1.8 billion young people between ages of 10 and 24 in the world. This is the largest
youth population ever and world ins getting younger every day. As per census 2011, there are 364.66
million youngsters in the 10-24 age group in India. They constitute over 30% of the total population. This
makes India one of the youngest nations of the world. But 1 in 10 of the world’s children live in conflict
zones and 24 million of them are out of school. Political instability, limited space for political and civic
participation, labour market challenges have led to increasing isolation of youth in societies.
World Elephant Day: August 12
The World Elephant Day is observed every year on August 12 to create awareness of urgent plight of
African and Asian elephants. It also seeks to share knowledge and positive solutions for better care and
management of captive and wild elephants. In India, cultural event Gaj Mahotsav was organised by
Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC) on this
occasion of this day. It was aimed to sensitise people urgent plight of elephants through different art
forms including an exhibition of elephant themed paintings and installations.
Background
The first International Elephant Day was held on August 12, 2012. Since then observed annually and is
dedicated to preservation and protection of the world’s elephants. This day was first conceived in 2011 by
Michael Clark and Patricia Sims, two filmmakers from Canada, as well as Sivaporn Dardarananda,
Secretary-General of the Elephant Reintroduction Foundation in Thailand.
This day highlights need for better protection for wild elephants, improving enforcement policies to
prevent the illegal poaching and trade of ivory, conserving elephant habitats, better treatment for captive
elephants etc. This day is now supported annually by more than 65 wildlife organizations and many
individual around the world.
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African elephants are listed as Vulnerable and Asian elephants as Endangered on the IUCN Red List of
threatened species. The current population estimates are about 400,000 for African elephants and 40,000
for Asian elephants. Some of the major threats faced by both African and Asian elephants are escalation of
habitat loss, poaching, human-elephant conflict and mistreatment in captivity etc.
Note: Indian elephant (Elephas maximus indicus) is one of three recognized subspecies of Asian elephant
and native to mainland Asia is national heritage animal of India (declared in 2011).
Indian Housing Project in Plantation Areas: India hands over 1st lot of houses built in Sri Lanka
India has handed over 404 houses built for Indian-origin people in Sri Lanka’s tea plantation areas at
Dunsinane Estate in Nuwara Eliya city. This is first lot of houses built under Indian Housing Project in
Plantation Areas in Sri Lanka.
Indian Housing Project in Plantation Areas
Under this project close to 47,000 houses so far have been completed out of total 60,000. With grant of
over US $350 million, it is India’s largest assistance project in any country. Houses built under it are
provided to Indian-origin people, mostly Tamils in Sri Lanka’s tea plantation areas. India is also
considering to sign agreement for construction of additional 10,000 houses at cost of 12 billion Sri Lankan
Rupees under this project.
Background
Indian-origin Tamils, mostly employed ramkishan
in teagugulotu
and rubber plantations
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | in Sri Lanka, lack proper housing.
They are mostly residing in central hill areas of the island country. They were brought from India by
British rulers during 19th century to work in coffee plantations in Sri Lanka. More than million are still
associated with tea and rubber plantations. Though they have been given the Sri Lankan citizenship,
housing is one of the major issue for these workers employed as daily wagers. Earlier, Sri Lankan
Government led by President Maithripala Sirisena had formulated ational plan of action for the plantation
workers and planned for construction of 55,000 houses till 2020.
Government approves proposal for setting up of water aerodromes in the country
Union Civil Aviation Ministry has given in-principle approval to set up water aerodromes in the country.
To start with it has identified five states: Odisha, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh and Assam for
development of water aerodromes. In the first phase of the project, Chilka Lake (Odisha), Sabarmati River
Front and Sardar Sarovar Dam (Gujarat) have been identified for the development of such facilities.
Key Facts
Airdrome is location from which aircraft flight operations take place, regardless of whether they involve
air cargo, passengers. The development of aerodromes projects in India will pave way for operation of
amphibian planes (both in land and water) to enhance air connectivity. These water aerodromes will be set
up near tourist locations and places of religious importance.
Since there is no historical data, the project will be done on a pilot basis, initially. The entity looking to set
up water aerodrome has to take approvals from authorities, including ministries of defence, home,
environment and forests, and shipping. DGCA already has issued regulations prescribing procedure and
requirement for licensing of water aerodromes.
The water aerodrome cannot be used for scheduled air transport services without licence. The issued
licence will be valid for two years. Initially, provisional licence will be issued for period of six months,
during which implementation of water aerodrome operation will be monitored and regular licence will be
accorded afterwards.
Sea-planes
Sea-planes are small fixed-wing aircrafts designed for taking off and landing on water and do not require
capital-intensive infrastructure for operations. They are considered ideal for high-end travel to
destinations that are far by road and are not equipped with airports. They require either 1-km long airstrip
or water body, which is one km long and at least 10 feet deep.
Delhi Police inducts India’s first all-woman SWAT team for anti-terrorist operations
Delhi Police has inducted India’s first all-woman Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team for anti-
terrorist operations. The all-woman SWAT team is the brainchild of Delhi Police Commissioner Amulya
Patnaik. It was formally inducted by Home Minister Rajnath Singh.
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Key Facts
The all-woman SWAT team was inducted after rigorous training of around 15 months from specialists all
across India and abroad. It comprises 36 women commandos from northeastern states (13 members from
Assam, 5 from Arunachal Pradesh, 5 from Sikkim, 5 from Manipur, 4 from Meghalaya, 2 from Nagaland
and 1 from Mizoram and Tripura each).
They have undergone training to handle urban situations as well as jungle operations. They are also well-
versed in Israeli Krav Maga, an unarmed combat style. Their expertise includes unarmed combat, ambush
and counter-ambush and urban operations like building interventions, vehicle intervention and VVIP
security.
They are skilled at using weaponry like MP5 submachine guns and Glock-21 pistols. They will be deployed
at strategic locations in Central and South Delhi as well as Red Fort and India Gate during Independence
Day and Republic day celebrations.
Digital North East Vision 2022 released in Guwahati

The Digital North East Vision 2022 was released in Guwahati, Assam by Union Minister for Electronics &
Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad. It was released in presence of Chief Ministers and IT
Ministers of North East States and senior officials of Central Government Ministries including DoT and
DoNER etc. First electronics manufacturing cluster in northeastern region was also inaugurated in
Guwahati, Assam.
Digital North East Vision 2022
He vision document emphasizes on leveraging digital technologies to transform lives of people of north
east and enhance ease of living. It identifies eight digital thrust areas namely, Digital Infrastructure, Digital
services, Promotion of Electronics Manufacturing, Digital empowerment, Promotion of IT and ITes including
BPOs, Digital Payments, Innovation & Startups and Cyber security.
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It has developed state-wise roadmaps for implementing digital initiatives in North East States. Through
these, it aims to empower the people of the North Eastern region. Under Digital North East, Union
government will invest nearly Rs. 10,000 crore in egion over next 4 years to implement more than 400
projects.
Digital North East is envisioned as an integral part of Digital India programme. It will help in leveraging
power of Information Technology to leapfrog the overall development of North East region and realize its
full potential.
India’s first genetic bank for wildlife conservation inaugurated in Hyderabad
National Wildlife Genetic Resource Bank was inaugurated at Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology’s
(CCMB) Laboratory of Conservation of Endangered Species (LaCONES) facility in Hyderabad, Telanagana.
It is India’s first genetic resource bank where genetic material will be stored for posterity which will further
the cause of conservation of endangered and protected animals.
National Wildlife Genetic Resource Bank
It is equipped with sophisticated equipment to preserve the genetic resources that could be utilised to
virtually resurrect an animal species in case it goes extinct. It will cryopreserve living cell lines, gametes
and embryos of endangered wild animal species in India. For cryogenic preservation, researchers at
CCMB-LaCONES will use liquid Nitrogen that is cooled down to as low as minus 195 degrees Celsius.
It will aid wild life conservation efforts by taking up artificial reproduction, conducting studies in
evolution biology and wildlife medicine. Thus, it will also help in protecting India’s biodiversity and
environment. So far this bank has collected and preserved genetic resources of 23 species of Indian wild
animals.
Background
To develop this facility, CCMB researchers had conducted detailed study of Frozen Zoo, San Diego Zoo, US,
which is considered as world’s largest and most diverse genetic bank of living cell cultures, oocytes,
sperms and embryos of extinct and endangered species. CCMB-LaCONES is only laboratory in India that
has developed methods for collection and cryopreservation of semen and oocytes from wild animanls and
successfully reproducing blackbuck, spotted deer and pigeons. LaCONES has developed universal DNA
based marker for identification of wild animals from parts and remains. It also has DNA banking of more
than 250 species of mammals, birds and reptiles.
August 14, 2018
Government notifies rules for unlocking Rs 66,000 crore compensatory afforestation funds
Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has notified rules for utilisation of
more than Rs 66,000 crore afforestation funds by states/UTs and for setting up authorities to monitor its
use for afforestation and conservation. The rules have been framed two years after Compensatory
Afforestation Fund (CAF) Act, 2016 to this effect was enacted.
Key Facts
The fund is accumulated amount which user agencies have been depositing as compensation for diverting
forest land for non-forest purposes such as setting up industries or creating infrastructure, over the past
10 years. Since rules for utilisation of fund have been notified, unspent amount will now be transferred to
National Compensatory Afforestation Fund (NCAF) at Centre and respective State Compensatory
Afforestation Funds in phased manner, depending on its utilisation. The national and state compensatory
afforestation funds are both non-lapsable and have been established under Public Account of India and
Public Account of each state. They can be utilised for only activities listed under the CAF Act.
Key Features of Rules
The rules specify that 80% of compensatory afforestation amount will be utilised by states for plantations,
assisted natural regeneration of forests, pest and disease control in forest, forest fire prevention, soil and
moisture conservation works and improvement of wildlife habitat, among other things from list of 13
permissible activities. The remaining 20% will be used for 11 listed works to strengthen infrastructure
related forest and wildlife protection. The list includes third-party monitoring of works, development of
certification standards, forest certification and casual hiring of local people to assist forest department
staff. It also specifies that working plan will be taken up in consultation with the gram sabha or village
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forest management committee.

Background
Though Parliament had enacted Compensatory Afforestation Fund (CAF) Act, 2016 to utilise money, it
could not be implemented in absence of enabling rules within Act for two years. As result, only Rs 14,418
crore out of Rs 80,716 crore were disbursed to states/UTs under temporary and time-consuming
mechanism. The remaining Rs 66,298 crore therefore has been lying unspent with ad hoc Compensatory
Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA) created by Supreme Court order in
2009. Among states, Odisha has highest share (Rs 9,725 crore) in accumulated fund, followed by
Chhattisgarh (Rs. 7,288 crore), Madhya Pradesh (Rs 6,353 crore) and Jharkhand (Rs 5,193 crore).
Justice Manjula Chellur takes oath as Chairperson of Appellate Tribunal for Electricity
Justice Manjula Chellur took oath as Chairperson of Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (ATE), Ministry of
Power. Prior to this appointment, she was Chief Justice of Bombay High Court. She has been appointed for
a period of 3 years or until further orders, whichever is earlier.
Justice Manjula Chellur
Smt. Justice Manjula Chellur was born on 5th December, 1955 in Karnataka. She received her Bachelor of
Arts degree from Allum Sunmangalamma Women’s College, Bellary. Later she had earned her law degree
from Renukacharya Law College, Bangalore. In 1977, Supreme Court of India had sponsored her on Gender
& Law fellowship to England’s Universityramkishan
of Warwick.
She was first woman Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court. She also served as Chief Justice of Kerala High
Court and first female judge of Karnataka High Court. She was second woman to be appointed as Chief
Justice of Bombay High Court in 2016 and retired in December, 2017.
Appellate Tribunal for Electricity (ATE)
It has been established by Union Ministry of Power in April 2004 by virtue of Section 110 of The Electricity
Act, 2003. It has jurisdiction throughout India has been set up to hear appeals or original petitions against
orders of Adjudicating officer or The Central Regulatory Commission or State Regulatory Commission or
Joint Commission constituted under Electricity Act. It is conferred with original jurisdiction to hear
petitions under Section 121 of the Act and issue directions to any appropriate commission for performance
of its statutory functions. It consists of Chairperson and three other Members. Every Bench constituted by
Chairperson consists of at least one Judicial Member and one Technical Member. The tribunal ordinarily
sits at Delhi.
Former Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee passes awayFormer Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath
Chatterjee passes away
Former Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee passed away following multi-organ failure in Kolkata,
West Bengal. He was 89. He was Speaker of Lok Sabja (House of the People) in first five-year term
(2004-2009) of United Progressive Alliance Government.
Somnath Chatterjee
He was born in 1929 in Tezpur, Assam. He was educated at Mitra Institution School, Presidency College
and then University of Calcutta in Calcutta. He also attended Jesus College, Cambridge and graduating
with BA in 1952 and an MA in 1957, both in Law.
He was awarded honorary fellowship by college in 2007. He was called to bar from Middle Temple in
London and took up legal practice as advocate at Calcutta High Court before joining active politics. He
joined Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) in 1968 and was member till his expulsion in 2008.
He was elected to Lok Sabja (Parliament’s Lower House) for ten times since 1971 (except once when he lost
to Mamata Banerjee in the Jadavpur Lok Sabha constituency in 1984). He was expelled from CPM in July
2008 for refusing to resign as Speaker after his party withdrew support from UPA government.
Fateh Mobin: Iran unveils next generation short-range ballistic missile
Iran has unveiled Fateh Mobin (Bright Conqueror) next generation short-range ballistic missile capable of
striking targets on land and sea. The missile has successfully passed its tests. It was unveiled as part of
Iran’s thrust to further boost its defence capabilities at time of rising tensions with United States.
Fateh Mobin Missile
Fateh-110 missile is 100% domestically made in Iran. It is agile and has stealth, tactical and precision-
guided capabilities. Its range was not specified, but experts believe that it will be between 300-500
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kilometers, more than previous versions Fateh Mobin missiles (having range of around 200 to 300
kilometres). This missile was test-fired by Iran during naval exercises in the strategically important Strait
of Hormoz in August 2018. This makes it first test-fire of Iranian ballistic missile in over year and the first
test of Fateh missile series since March 2017.
Background
Iran’s missile programme is major bone of contention with world powers, particularly United States. But
Iran see it as vital for its defensive posture in troubled West Asian region. US President Donald Trump had
pulled out of the 2015 Iran- P5+1 nuclear deal (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action) between Iran and five
world powers in May 2018 and had called for new agreement that restricts Iran’s missile capabilities and
regional interventions.
Ashish Kumar Bhutani appointed CEO of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana
Government has appointed senior bureaucrat Ashish Kumar Bhutani as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY). He has been appointed to post till May 2020. He is IAS officer
(1992 batch) of Assam-Meghalaya cadre.
Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
It is farmers’ welfare scheme launched in 2016 to ensure faster insurance services or reliefs to farmers. It
was formulated in line with One Nation–One Scheme theme by replacing earlier two schemes National
Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS)ramkishan
andgugulotu
Modified National Agricultural
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | Insurance Scheme (MNAIS)
by incorporating their best features and removing their inherent drawbacks (shortcomings). It aims to
reduce the premium burden on farmers and ensure early settlement of crop assurance claim for the full
insured sum.
Objectives: Provide insurance coverage and financial support to farmers in event of natural calamities,
pests & diseases. Stabilise income of farmers to ensure their continuance in farming. Ensure flow of credit
to the agriculture sector. Encourage farmers to adopt innovative and modern agricultural practices.
Beneficiaries: All farmers growing notified crops in notified area during season who have insurable
interest in crop are eligible under this scheme. It also provides insurance benefits to Landless labourers. It
is compulsory for loanee farmers availing crop loans for notified crops in notified areas and voluntary for
non-loanee farmers.
Key Features of Scheme
Under this scheme, farmers need to pay uniform premium of only 2% for all Kharif crops and 1.5% for all
Rabi crops. In case of annual commercial and horticultural crops, farmers have to pay premium of only 5%.
The premium rates to be paid by farmers are very low and balance premium will be paid by Government.
Moreover, there is no upper limit on Government subsidy, so farmers will get claim against full sum
insured without any reduction.
It covers yield losses due to non-preventable risks, such as natural fire and lightning, storm, stailstorm,
cyclone, typhoon, tempest, hurricane, tornado. It also covers risks due to flood, inundation and landslide,
drought, dry spells, pests and diseases. It also covers post-harvest losses are also covered.
Udder this scheme, it mandatory for use of technology such as smart phones, drones etc to capture and
upload data of crop cutting to reduce delays in claim payment to farmers. Remote sensing will be also
used to reduce number of crop cutting experiments. The scheme is implemented on Area Approach basis.
In this case, defined area (i.e. unit area of insurance) is village or above it can be geo-mapped and geo-
fenced region having homogenous risk profile for notified crop.
DAC approves procurement of six Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman approved
procurement of six indigenously designed and manufactured Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels
(NGOPVs) for Indian Navy. DAC is Defence Ministry’s highest decision-making body on capital
procurement of Indian Armed Forces (Army, Navy and Air Force).
Next Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels (NGOPVs)
NGOPVs will be built in indigenous shipyards at approximate cost of Rs. 4941 crore. They will be fitted
with state-of-the-art sensor suite with increased endurance. These platforms will strengthen maritime
security by undertaking a multitude of operational roles both in blue water and littorals. These include
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seaward defence, protection of offshore assets, search & seizure operations and maritime interdiction
operations, mine warfare, surveillance missions, anti-piracy missions, counter infiltration operations, anti-
poaching and trafficking operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) and search and
rescue missions.
Jodhpur, Marwar ranked cleanliest rail stations in Third Party Survey Report on Station Cleanliness
Union Railway Ministry released Third Party Survey Report on Station Cleanliness which ranked 407
railway stations including 75 A1 category stations, 332 A category stations on basis of cleanliness
performance. Jodhpur (Rajasthan) was ranked first in survey A1 category stations, Marwar (Rajasthan)
first in A category stations and North Western Railway first among all Zonal Railways.
Key Facts
This was third such audit cum cleanliness survey conducted by Indian Railways to increase level of
cleanliness under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan by identifying unclean spots, improve cleanliness standards and
propel healthy competition among railway stations. It was conducted by Quality Council of India (QCI)
with help of their partners. The parameters adopted for conducting survey were Evaluation of Process of
cleanliness in main entry area, parking, main platform, waiting room (33.33%), direct observation by QCI
assessors of cleanliness in these areas (33.33%) and passenger feedback (33.33%). The cleanliness rankings of
stations is reward for stations that have performed well and gives impetus for further improvement for
stations that not made into e top rankings. ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Ranking of Stations
Top 10 A1 category Stations (out of 75): Jodhpur (1st), Jaipur (2nd), Tirupati (3rd), Vijayawada (4th), Anand
Vihar Terminal (5th), Secunderabad Junction (6th), Bandra (7th), Hyderabad (8th), Bhubaneshwar (9th) and
Vishakhapatnam (10th).
Top 10 A category stations (out of 332): Marwar (1st), Phulera (2nd), Warangal (3rd), Udaipur (4th),
Jaialmer (5th), Nizamabad (6th), Barmer (7th), Machiryal (8th), Mysore (9th) and Bhilwara (10th).
Top 10 Zonal Railways Rankings: North Western Railway (1st), South Central Railway (2nd), East Coast
Railway (3rd), South East Central Railway (4th), Western Railway (5th), Southern Western Railway (6th),
Southern Railway (7th), Central Railway (8th), West Central Railway (9th) and Northeast Frontiers Railway
(10th).
Pune tops in Ease of Living Index released by Housing Ministry
Pune (Maharashtra) ranked first among 116 cities (with population of 1 million plus) in Ease of Living Index
released by Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs (MoHUA). Besides, two more Maharashtra cities —
Navi Mumbai and Greater Mumbai — figure in the second and third spots The index exercise was
launched in January 2018 by MoHUA with help of the consortium of IPSOS Research Pvt Ltd, Athena
Infonomics, and Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
Key Facts
Top 10 cities are (rank order) are Pune, Navi Mumbai, Greater Mumbai, Tirupati, Chandigarh, Thane,
Raipur, Indore, Vijaywada and Bhopal. Among other major cities, Chennai ranked 14th rank, Ahmedabad
23rd, Hyderabad 27th, Varanasi 33rd, Bengaluru 58th and Delhi 65th. Rampur in Uttar Pradesh was
ranked worst on the scale and also Kohima and Patna on bottom two and three ranks while. Kolkata was
excluded from index, as West Bengal Government had refused to participate in rankings, just as it has
done with all other urban schemes.
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Ease of Living Index

The index conceived in June 2017 aims to help cities assess their liveability vis-a-vis global and national
benchmarks and encourage cities to move towards an ‘outcome-based’ approach to urban planning and
management. It covers 111 cities that are smart city contenders, capital cities and cities with population of
1 million plus. It captures quality of life based on data collected from urban local bodies on four
parameters, which were further broken down into 15 categories. The four parameters include institutional
(governance), social (identity, education, health, security), economic ( economy, employment) and physical
factors (waste water and solid waste management, pollution, housing/ inclusiveness, mixed land use, power and
water supply, transport, public open spaces). Institutional and social parameters carry 25 points each,
physical factors have weightage of 45 points and economic factors 5 points totalling to 100 mark scale on
which cities were evaluated.
Significance
The index aims to help cities attain liveable city status, get them more investments and improve tourism.
It also seeks to serve as knowledge base for taking policy decisions and for planning. It also marks shift to
data driven approach to urbanisation and promote competitive spirit among cities.
August 15, 2018
K S Srinivas appointed as Chairman of Marine Products Export Development Authority
IAS officer K S Srinivas has taken over as Chairman of Marine Products Export Development Authority
(MPEDA). Prior to this appoitment, he had served as Joint Secretary in Department of Agriculture
Cooperation and Farmers’ Welfare in Ministry of Agriculture.
Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA)
MPEDA is a nodal coordinating state owned agency engaged in fishery production and allied activities. It
was established in 1972 under Marine Products Export Development Authority Act (MPEDA), 1972. It
functions under Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry. It is headquartered in Kochi, Kerala. It
mandate is to increase exports of sea food including fisheries of all kinds, specifying standards, marketing,
processing, extension and training in various aspects. It acts as coordinating agency with different
Central and State Government establishments engaged in fishery production and allied activities.
Akshay Kumar appointed as brand ambassador for Government’s Road Safety campaigns
Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways had appointed Bollywood actor Akshay Kumar as brand
ambassador of its Road Safety campaigns. As part of this campaign, three short films featuring Akshay
Kumar for generating public awareness towards road safety were also released. These films were directed
by R.Balki and call upon people to adopt good practices in road safety to build accident-free society.
Background
The subject of road safety is of supreme importance in India as approximately around 1,46,000 people had
died in road accidents across the country in 2017. Majority of the road accidents involved two-wheelers,
where the victims were not wearing helmets and over 65% of deaths on roads were of people in
employable age. Government had introduced Road Safety Bill in Parliament (yet to pass) having provisions
for stricter penalties for offenders. Union Ministry of Ministry of Road Transport & Highways also had
constituted national road safety council as apex body to take policy decisions in matters of road safety. It
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also had requested all states and Union Territories to set up state road safety council and district road
safety committee and to hold their meetings regularly.
Rupee for first time hit historic low of Rs. 70 mark against US dollar
Indian rupee for first time in history plunged to record low of Rs. 70.07 against US dollar on 14 August
2018. However, it recovered later at around Rs. 69.84 after heavy intervention by Reserve Bank of India
(RBI). This sudden deprecation of rupee is similar to fall of other currencies of emerging markets triggered
by crash in Turkish currency lira.
Background
Turkish lira has been in free fall following political and economic problems in Turkey, combined with fresh
trouble on the external front. It has slid by almost 50% against dollar in past one year. The primary reason
for ongoing rout in lira is poor economic management by government of President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Turkish economy is overheating due to soaring inflation (has reached annual rate of nearly 16% in July
2018), mounting levels of foreign debt and very high current account deficit (CAD). Moreover, both
Turkish government and central bank are facing serious loss of credibility. There are also signs of massive
bubble in construction sector of Turkey, which is further threatening country’s already fragile banking
system.
Impact of Rupee
Rupee has been on downslide in 2018 andramkishan
hasgugulotu
slipped 9% in 2018 as
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | foreign investors sold $6.8 million and
$5.15 billion in equity and debt markets respectively. Besides, Turkey’s currency crisis has triggered for
fresh selling across emerging markets and further down sliding rupee sharply. Rupee is one of the worst
performing emerging market currencies and hardest hit in Asia due fall in Turkish lira. It is depreciating
due to external factors and at this stage it is not serious economic issue as depreciation is in line with
other currencies. In comparison to many other currencies, rupee has not seen that much depreciation. In
future, if global currencies show further meltdown, rupee will also fall further.
Implications of rupee’s fall
On Imports: Weak rupee can act as kind of import tax. Due to fall in rupee, importers (especially oil
companies and other import-intensive companies) will be hardest hit as cost of importing goods or capital
goods in to India will increase. They will have to pay more Indian rupees to buy an equivalent amount of
dollars.
On Exports: Exporters benefits from weak rupee as they get more rupees while converting their dollar
export earnings into Indian currency. India’s software exporters will benefit from rupee’s decline.
On Overall Economy: RBI assess trend in rupee vis-à-vis emerging market currency pack and if all
emerging market currencies are depreciating, it may further allow rupee to weaken to protect export
competitiveness. However it will make imports costlier. It will increase oil prices (India is world’s third
biggest oil importer and ships in about 80% of its crude oil requirements) which may exert further exert
pressure on CAD and cause inflationary pressure. It may force RBI to hike interest rates to check
inflationary pressures. It will also play important role in attracting long term foreign direct investment
(FDI) to support make in India agenda, which has not yet taken off and one of the reason being the strong
rupee value.
Hackers siphon Rs 94 crore from Pune’s Cosmos Cooperative Bank via ATMs in 28 countries
Recently hackers have stolen (illegally withdrawn) Rs .94 crore from Pune’s Cosmos Cooperative Bank via
ATMs in 28 countries. It is possibly first of its kind coordinated digital attack on Indian bank. In this cyber
heist considered to be originated in Canada, Rs. 78 crore were illegally withdrawn in more than 12,000
ATM transactions in 28 countries. Rs 2.5 crore were made in different places within India with another
2,800 transactions. Moreover, Rs 13.5 crore was transferred to Hong Kong-based entity using the Society
for Worldwide Interbank Telecommunications (SWIFT) facility.
Modus Operandi of Hackers
The illegal withdrawals were enabled by malware attack which authenticated debit card transactions
bypassing the bank’s computerised core banking systecore banking system (CBS), which allows banks to
settle cash dispensation requests raised at ATMs.
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CBS of the bank houses all the data of its customers. Once request is raised by swiping of card at ATM, it is
transferred to CBS of bank using switching system. After checking available credit in individual account, CBS either
allows or turns down request, which is again transmitted to payment systems via switching system.
The malware had created proxy switching system, which had bypassed need for validation by CBS of bank.
The operation of switching systems involves variety of agencies, including banks, which participate in
complex yet lightning fast process of dispensing money from teller machine.
This might have been preceded by another cyber-attack, resulting in data theft of hundreds of bank’s debit
cards. The information on these debit cards were then have been cloned on to fake cards used in physical
withdrawal of cash from ATMs across the world. The illegally withdrawn money has gone out from bank’s
corpus and not from individual accounts of the bank’s customers.
Aerogel: Scientists develop super-insulating transparent gel
Scientists have developed Aerogel, a transparent heat-resistant super-insulating gel using beer waste. It
may be used to build greenhouse-like habitats for human colonised on extraterrestrial habitats such as
Mars or Moon. It could also be used on buildings on Earth to help make huge savings on energy costs.
Key Facts
Aerogels defining feature is air, as it comprise at least 90% gas by weight. Their thin films are made up of
crisscrossing patterns of solid materialramkishan
thatgugulotu
trap air inside billions
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | of tiny pores, similar to bubbles in
bubble wrap. This trapping capacity makes them good insulators.
Recently developed transparent heat-resistant super-insulating aerogel using beer waste looks like
flattened plastic contact lens film (roughly 100 times lighter than glass). It is transparent compared to
similar products in market allowing to see-through it. It is also resistant to heat. It is also cheaper to
produce because it comes from beer waste.
Potential Applications: It could also be used on buildings on Earth to help make huge savings on energy
costs. It can be also used in windows and also in extraterrestrial habitats. It enables to harvest sunlight
through that thermally-insulating material and store energy inside, thus protecting from big oscillations
in temperature especially on Mars or on moon.
NITI Aayog launches Pitch to MOVE competition
NITI Aayog has launched mobility pitch competition Pitch to MOVE to provide budding entrepreneurs of
India unique opportunity to pitch their business ideas to distinguished jury. Using this platform, startups
working in various fields of mobility can pitch their ideas to industry leaders and venture capitalists for
raising investments.
Pitch to MOVE competition
The competition is organised by NITI Aayog in collaboration with Invest India and Society of Indian
Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). It is part of series of Global Mobility Summit, engaging featured events
in run up to the main event.
It aims to identify and incentivize (also reward) startups offering innovative solutions to Government
realize its vision of shared, connected, intermodal and environment friendly mobility for India. Its objective is to
harness latest disruption for generating employment and growth in our country.
In this competition, startups can be from domain of public mobility, electric vehicles (EVs), shared
transport, last mile connectivity, passenger transportation, battery technology, automotive IoT, freight
and logistics, powertrain and drivetrain, experiential, travel, mobility infrastructure and automotive
electronics etc.
The competition is open to primarily startups from various parts of India who are interested in
showcasing their business ideas to jury members. The winners of this competition will receive support
from VCs and will be felicitated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during Global Mobility Summit
scheduled to be held on 7-8 Sep 2018 in New Delhi.
Kanyashree Prakalpa scheme: West Bengal Government removes lifts family income ceiling
West Bengal Government has announced to remove annual family income ceiling in eligibility criteria to
be beneficiary under state’s UN award winning Kanyashree Prakalpa scheme. This will help more girls to
chase their dreams with Government support. Currently only girls belonging to families with annual
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family income not more than Rs 1.20 lakh were entitled to get the benefits of this scheme. State
government is also planning to set up “Kanyashree University” under this scheme for girls soon.
Kanyashree Prakalpa scheme
It is conditional cash transfer scheme aimed at improving status and well-being of girl child by
incentivising schooling of teenage girls and delaying their marriages until the age of 18. It was launched
by Mamata Banerjee led West Bengal Government (Women Development and Social Welfare department)
in October 2013. It was aimed at increasing educational attainment of girls, prevention of child marriage
and financial inclusion.
Objectives: Improve lives and status of the adolescent girls in State. Provide financial help to girls from
disadvantaged families to pursue higher studies (now it will cover every girl from state). Prevent child
marriage. Improved outcomes in terms of their health (especially facilitate the prevention of infant and
maternal mortality). Contribute towards empowerment of girls in the state. Bring immeasurable benefits
for the larger society as a whole.
Targeted Beneficiaries: All girl children within age of 13 to 19 in the state. Girls regularly attending
institutions for education or vocational or sports training. Girls of Child Care Institutes registered under
Juvenile Justice Act (JJ), 2000 within age of 18-19 years.
Components of Scheme
Annual Scholarship of Rs. 500: It is for unmarried girls aged 13-18 years enrolled in classes VIII-XII
in government recognized regular or equivalent open school or equivalent vocational or technical
training course.
One time Grant of Rs. 25,000: It is for girls turned 18 at time of application, enrolled in government
recognized regular or open school and colleges or pursuing vocational or technical training or sports
activity or is inmate of Home registered under JJ Act.
Progress: So far around 50 lakh girls from the state have been benefited by scheme and removal of ceiling
will help another three lakh more girls annually. Since its launch, it has helped to reduce number of school
drop out of girls by nearly 11.5%.The scheme was awarded United Nations Public Service Award in June 2017.
Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal: 13.42 TMC water to allocated to Karnataka, 24 TMC to Goa
Mahadayi Water Disputes Tribunal delivered its final verdict to ending 50-year-old dispute over sharing
of Mahadayi or Mandovi River between Goa, Karnataka and Maharashtra. The tribunal was constituted in
November 2010 under Interstate River Water Disputes Act, 1956 to resolve water sharing dispute between
riparian states.
Mahadayi River
Mahadayi River (also spelt Mahadeyi or Mhadei, and called Mandovi in Goa) rises in Bhimgad Wildlife
Sanctuary in Western Ghats, in Khanapur taluk of Belagavi district in Karnataka. It flows in westerly
direction, entering Goa in Sattari taluk of North Goa district. It is joined by number of streams along it
course, growing in volume to become Mandovi (one of Goa’s two major rivers), before emptying itself into
Arabian Sea at Panaji. About two-thirds (76 km) of Mahadayi’s 111-km stretch lies in Goa and remaining 35
km is in Karnataka and Maharashtra. Mahadayi river basin drains area of 2032 square km of which 375 sq
km lies in Karnataka, 77 sq km in Maharashtra and remaining in Goa. Mahadayi River is lifeline of Goa
because it is one of few sweet-water sources at state’s disposal (most of Goa’s 11 rivers contain salt water).
It also important for Goa’s water security, ecology, and is important source of its staple diet of fish.
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Dispute
The sharing of waters of Mahadayi River was major cause of dispute between Karnataka and Goa.
Karnataka was proposing to divert excess water from Mahadayi river to Malaprabha river basin by
constructing number of dams, canals and barrages to route Mahadayi river water as part of Kalasa-
Banduri Nala project.
It had citied that, diversion of surplus water from Mahadayi which drains into Arabian sea (approximately
188 tmcft of water at 75% dependability flows into the Arabian Sea now without being used for anything)
to meet requirements of water-scarce districts of Bagalkot, Gadag, Dharwad and Belagavi.
Goa had opposed Karnataka’s proposal, contending that its population is dependent on river’s natural path
and its diversion will affect its fragile ecosystem. It also claimed that ingress of saltwater in river, which is
dependent on monsoons, will ultimately end up killing state’s mangroves and green belt, disturb
relationship between its people and land as well as ecological balance.
Tribunal Award
The tribunal has pegged Karnataka’s access to 13.4 tmc of Mahadayi River water for its consumptive use
(5.4 tmc) and power generation (8.02 tmc). Goa was allowed to use 24 tmc for state’s municipal water
needs, irrigation water requirements and industrial water demands. Maharashtra was awarded lowest
share of 1.33 tmc for meeting its in-basin needs with respect to five projects. It also directed Central
Government to set up Mahadayi Water Management Authority to implement its report and final decision.
2018 Global Liveability Index: Vienna named world’s most liveable city
Austrian capital Vienna was ranked as world’s most liveable city among 140 major cities in 2018 Global
Liveability Index released by Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU). It is first time that European city has
topped rankings of EIU annual survey.
Global Liveability Index
Global Liveability Index released by EIU compares world cities with each other in terms of security,
affordability, education, healthcare, its urban lifestyle and infrastructure. It scores 140 major cities of the
world on scale ranging from 0 (least liveable city) to 100 (most liveable city) based on these above
parameters.
Key Highlights of 2018 Global Liveability Index
10 most liveable cities’ list includes Vienna, Austria (rank: 1st, with total score of 99.1), Melbourne,
Australia (2nd, 98.4); Osaka, Japan (3rd, 97.7); Calgary, Canada (4th, 97.5); Sydney, Australia (5th, 97.4);
Vancouver, Canada (6th, 97.3); Toronto, Canada (7th, 97.2); Tokyo, Japan (8th, 97.2); Copenhagen, Denmark
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(9th, 96.8); and Adelaide, Australia (96.6).

Three Canadian cities made it into top 10 viz. Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary. No Indian cities were ranked
in the top ten or bottom ten of this edition of index. New Delhi had figured at 112th and Mumbai 117th position
in list. South Asian cities were also ranked low in
The 10 least liveable cities are Dakar, Senegal (131st); Algiers, Algeria (132nd); Douala, Cameroon (133rd);
Tripoli, Libya (134th); Harare, Zimbabwe (135th); Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea (136th); Karachi,
Pakistan (137th); Lagos, Nigeria (138th); Dhaka, Bangladesh (139th) and Damascus, Syria (140th).
US extends $39 million military finance to Sri Lanka to boost maritime security
United States has announced to grant $39 million as part its foreign military financing to Sri Lanka to
boost maritime security. The US funding for Sri Lanka is part of its $300 million set aside for South and
Southeast Asia to ensure free, open, and rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.
Key Facts
The foreign military financing to Sri Lanka will be subject to approval by US Congress. It is viewed latest
move by US to counter China’s increasing strategic influence on Indian Ocean island. This contribution
will also support Bay of Bengal initiative and Sri Lanka’s humanitarian assistance and disaster response
(HADR) priorities. This will be first US grant to Sri Lanka since 2009, after US had stopped arms sales to
Sri Lanka during height of its Tamil separatist war that ended in 2009. During this time, US was highly
critical of human-rights record of Sri Lankan Government led by then President Mahinda Rajapakse. This
had led Sri Lanka to seek China as its alternative partner.

Background
China (world’s second-largest economy) in recent has raised its investments in major ports in Sri Lanka,
which are key to its ambitious ‘Belt and Road’ infrastructure initiative. Under it, China has vowed to keep
providing financial help, including loans to Sri Lanka despite warnings about its mounting debt. Sri Lanka
has already handed over control of Hambantota sea port to China on 99-year lease in 2017, after its
inability to repay Chinese loans for the $1.4 billion project. The port in Hambantota straddles world’s
busiest east-west shipping route and also gives strategic foothold to China in region, threating long
dominance of India in the region. International Monetary Fund (IMF) also has warned Sri Lanka over its
heavy debt after it bailed out island nation in June 2016 with $1.5 billion loan.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Which of the following countries is/are hosting the 2018 International Army Games (IAG)?
[A] Iran
[B] Armenia
[C] Russia
[D] All of the above
Correct Answer: D [All of the above]
Notes:
The International Army Games 2018 are being held at 24 training grounds in seven countries namely
Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Iran, Kazakhstan, China and Russia from July 28 to August 11. It is for the
first time that Armenia and Iran are co-hosting events of the Army Games. Indian teams are taking part
in two major competitions– Tank Biathlon event at Alabino ranges, Moscow region and Elbrus Ring
competition in Caucasus mountains. The opening ceremony was attended by Indian Ambassador to
Russia, Pankaj Saran along with Indian attaches attended the ceremony.
2. Karman Kaur Thandi is associated with which sports?
[A] Tennis
[B] Hockey
[C] Badminton
[D] Basketball
Correct Answer: A [Tennis]
Notes:
Karman Kaur Thandi from Delhi has become only the 6th Indian woman tennis player to crack the
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top-200 rankings in singles and is now ranked exactly 200 in the WTA list. Karman, backed by Mahesh
Bhupathi, has been in good form in the past few weeks, winning her maiden ITF singles title in Hong
Kong and making the semi-finals in two others in China. In April 2018, India’s top singles player Ankita
Raina had broken into the top-200 and is now ranked 195 (-4). Before these two girls, Sania Mirza,
Nirupama Vaidyanathan, Shikha Uberoi and Sunitha Rao had made it to the top-200. While Sania,
winner of six Grand Slam titles in doubles, touched a career-high of 27 in singles in 2007, Nirupama’s
best rank was 134 in 1997.
3. Which of the following has been awarded the ‘Marketer of the Year’ award by the International
Advertising Association of India (IAAI)
[A] Hindustan Unilever
[B] Amul
[C] LIC
[D] Nestle
Correct Answer: B [Amul]
Notes:
Gujarat Co-operative Milk Marketing Federation Ltd. (GCMMF), the marketers of the popular Amul
brand of milk and dairy products, was awarded the ‘Marketer of the Year’ award by the International
Advertising Association of India (IAAI).ramkishan
Thegugulotu
award was received by RS Sodhi, the Managing Director
(MD) of GCMMF, on behalf of the 36 lakh milk famers and producers of Gujarat. Amul is the brand worth
Rs 41,000 crore and is the biggest cooperative owned by 36 lakh farmers of Gujarat. Amul is not only
known for its cooperative structure and farmer’s faith, but is also known for its marketing and
advertizing strategies.
4. What is the theme of the 2018 World Day against Trafficking in Persons?
[A] Protect rights of human trafficking victims
[B] Act to protect and assist trafficked persons
[C] Unite to eradicate human trafficking
[D] Responding to the trafficking of children and young people
Correct Answer: D [Responding to the trafficking of children and young people]
Notes:
The World Day against Trafficking in Persons is observed every year on July 30 to raise awareness of the
situation of victims of human trafficking and for the promotion and protection of their rights. The 2018
theme “Responding to the trafficking of children and young people” highlights the fact that almost a 3rd
of trafficking victims are children. The theme draws attention to the issues faced by trafficked children
and to possible action initiatives linked to safeguarding and ensuring justice for child victims.
5. India’s first in-phone tourism guide and mobile application “Go whats That” has launched in
which city?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Pune
[C] Chandigarh
[D] Lucknow
Correct Answer: C [Chandigarh]
Notes:
India’s first in-phone tourism guide and mobile application “Go whats That” has launched by
Dharmendra Pradhan, the Union Minister for Petroleum & Natural Gas and Skill Development &
Entrepreneurship, at Rock Garden in Chandigarh on July 28, 2018. This is first of its kind app where
tourist can scan QR code at a heritage site to download the history & details of that place in multiple
languages. Initially, 1,100 tags have been placed at different tourist spots, which will give accurate
information on each artifact. The app will also help the UT Administration in data analytics by getting
real-time updates on each place, including the number of tourists visiting the places, scan details, etc.
6. John Sankaramangalam, who passed away recently, was the veteran personality from which
field?
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[A] Politics
[B] Film Industry
[C] Journalism
[D] Sports
Correct Answer: B [Film Industry]
Notes:
John Sankaramangalam (84), the Veteran filmmaker and former director of Film and Television Institute
of India (FTTI), has passed away in Thiruvalla, Kerala on July 30, 2018. A multi-time recipient of national
and state awards, Sankaramangalam was known for his experimental movies. Some of his directorial
ventures are “Aval Alpam Vaikippoyi”, “Janmabhoomi” and “Samantharam”.
7. Who has been conferred with the 2018 Mohun Bagan Ratna?
[A] Pradip Choudhury
[B] Rahim Ali
[C] Sudip Chatterjee
[D] Shilton Paul
Correct Answer: A [Pradip Choudhury]
Notes:
Pradip Choudhury, who formed the central defensive pair with Subroto Bhattacharya when Mohun
Bagan took on Pele’s Cosmos team in 1977, has been conferred the Mohun Bagan Ratna 2018 at the
annual day of the 129-year-old club on July 29. On the occasion of Mohun Bagan Day 2018, Shilton Paul
was given the Best Footballer for the Year award and Sudip Chatterjee was handed the Best Cricketer of
the Year honour. Sourav Das was the Best Youth Footballer . Rahim Ali received a special award for his
performance for Indian team in the FIFA under-17 World Cup 2017. The day is celebrated to
commemorate the Mariners’ victory over East Yorkshire Regiment 2-1 in the IFA Shield final on July 29,
1911.
8. Who has become the first Asian to swim UK-France channel?
[A] Swapan Kumar
[B] Prabhat Koli
[C] Sharad Tiwari
[D] Sourabh Verma
Correct Answer: B [Prabhat Koli]
Notes:
Prabhat Koli (19) from Maharashtra, who crossed the English Channel when he was 16, has become the
first Asian to swim the choppy water from Jersey (an Island in the UK) to France in cold weather. The
long-distance sea swimmer covered 25km in 6 hours and 54 minutes. He started off from La Coupe Point
of Jersey, behind St Catherine’s backwater and touched the shore of St Germain Plage on the Normandy
coast of France. As part of his seven seas challenge, Prabhat is now training to cross the North Channel
in Ireland in first week of August.
9. Which high level empowered committee has been constituted to address the issues of stressed
thermal power projects?
[A] Pradeep Kumar Sinha committee
[B] Ajit Balaji Joshi committee
[C] Dan Singh Rawat committee
[D] J H Thomas committee
Correct Answer: A [Pradeep Kumar Sinha committee]
Notes:
The Union Government has constituted a high level empowered committee to address the issues of
stressed thermal power projects. The committee will be headed by Cabinet Secretary, Pradeep Kumar
Sinha with representatives from the Ministry of Railways, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Power,
Ministry of Coal and the lenders having major exposure to the power sector. The Committee would look
into the various issues with a view to resolve them and maximize the efficiency of investment including
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changes required to be made in the fuel allocation policy, regulatory framework, mechanisms to
facilitate sale of power, ensure timely payments, payment security mechanism, changes required in the
provisioning norms/Insolvency and Bankruptcy Code (IBC), Asset Restructuring Company (ARC)
Regulations and any other measures proposed for revival of stressed assets so as to avoid such
investments becoming NPA.
10. Which state government will set up ‘iHub’ (the intelligent hub) for research and scientific
learning?
[A] Himachal Pradesh
[B] Telangana
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Andhra Pradesh government will set up ‘iHub’ (the intelligent hub), a first-of-its kind global research
centre for scientific learning with an initial investment of Rs 245 crore spread over five years. For this
purpose, the state government has already collaborated with UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of
Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP). Some of the social and economic objectives
of iHub will be to create 50,000 future-ready skilled manpower, reduced school dropouts and capture
the EdTech market. The initial staff will be about 40 International researchers in disciplines such as
neuro-science, education, psychology, digital instructional design, educational technology, Artificial
Intelligence, data sciences, and gamingamong others. The centre will also issue “Global Certification” for
digital educational content.
11. Which city hosted the first ‘Nepal-India Think Tank’ Summit?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Kathmandu
[C] Udaipur
[D] Varanasi
Correct Answer: B [Kathmandu]
Notes:
The first ‘Nepal-India Think Tank’ Summit was held in Kathmandu on July 31 to foster greater
collaboration and knowledge-sharing among the think tanks of the two countries. It was inaugurated by
Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’, the former Prime Minister of Nepal and Co-Chairman of ruling Nepal
Communist Party. The summit was jointly organized by the Asian Institute of Diplomacy and
International Affairs (AIDA) and Nehru Memorial Museum Library (NMML). The purpose of the summit
was to support the networks and promote mutual understanding through institutional collaboration on
resource sharing for joint events / publications among think tanks of the two countries. The participants
including think tanks, policy makers, diplomats, academicians, businesspersons and journalists
deliberated on the Indo-Nepal ties and its dimensions in different sessions.
12. Who is the chairman of the Myanmar Government appointed independent commission to
probe human rights against the ethnic Rohingya minority?
[A] Aung Tun Thet
[B] Mya Thein
[C] Rosario Manalo
[D] Kenzo Oshima
Correct Answer: C [Rosario Manalo]
Notes:
The Myanmar Government has appointed an independent 4- member commission to investigate alleged
human rights abuses against the ethnic Rohingya minority. The Independent Commission will
investigate the allegations of human rights violations and related issues, following the terrorist attacks
by Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army (ARSA). The commission will be comprised of two local members &
two international members. It will be headed by Filipino diplomat Rosario Manalo. The other members
includes Japan’s former ambassador to the UN Kenzo Oshima, lawyer Mya Thein and economist and
former UN official Aung Tun Thet. In August 2017, more than 700,000 Rohingya have fled Myanmar’s
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western Rakhine state to Bangladesh after a military crackdown started in response to attacks by ARSA
on security posts.
13. Which state government has launched a smartphone distribution scheme ‘Mobile Tihar’ under
the Sanchar Kranti Yojna (SKY)?
[A] Tamil Nadu
[B] Kerala
[C] Chhattisgarh
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Chhattisgarh]
Notes:
The Chhattisgarh government has launched a smartphone distribution scheme ‘Mobile Tihar’ under the
Sanchar Kranti Yojna (SKY). The scheme is for distribution of smartphones to women and students,
covering over 50 Lakh beneficiaries. As part of the scheme, 556 new mobile towers will be installed
across the state. ‘Mobile Tihar’ was launched by Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh, along with
National Award-winning actress Kangana Ranaut on July 31.
14. The first cow sanctuary of Rajasthan will come up in which district?
[A] Bikaner ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[B] Jodhpur
[C] Jaipur
[D] Hanuman garh
Correct Answer: A [Bikaner]
Notes:
The first cow sanctuary in Rajasthan will be situated in Napasar, Bikaner to dedicate the entire area for
cows, much on the lines of a wildlife sanctuary. It will provide shelter for 10,000 bovines spread over an
area of more than 220 hectares in Bikaner district. The facilities in the sanctuary will include hospitals
and Sewan grass as fodder for the animals. The state government has recently signed a Memorandum of
Understanding (MoU) with a private trust in this regard. The cow sanctuary will be the latest in a string
of initiatives announced by the BJP government in the state for the protection of bovines since it came
to power in 2013. The state already has a ministry dedicated to the welfare of cows and last year it had
announced a 10% surcharge on stamp duty towards cow protection.
15. Which Indian film bagged the best film award at the 3rd edition of the BRICS Film Festival
2018?
[A] Village Rockstars
[B] Sinjar
[C] Bhanayakam
[D] Newton
Correct Answer: D [Newton]
Notes:
The 2018 BRICS Film Festival took place in Durban, South Africa, along with the International Durban
Film Festival (DIFF) from 22-27th July. The last day of the festival was celebrated as India Country Day,
followed by Awards and Closing Ceremony. The basic aim of film festival is to celebrate world-class film
productions from the BRICS nations with the objective of inspiring more collaboration from these
nations. The festival screened four Indian Films, ‘Newton’ and ‘Village Rockstars’ in the competition
section, and Sandeep Pampally’s ‘Sinjar’ and Jayara’s ‘Bhanayakam’ in the non-competition section.
“Newton”, directed by Amit Masurkar, bagged the best film award, while “Village Rockstars” (directed by
Rima Das) won the Best Actress (Bhanita Das) and Special Jury Award in the BRICS Film Festival 2018.
16. Which state government will observe 2018 Independence Day eve as Shahid Samman Divas to
honour martyrs?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Andhra Pradesh
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[C] Himachal Pradesh

[D] Arunachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: A [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
The Madhya Pradesh government will observe the 2018 Independence Day eve as Shahid Samman Divas
to honour martyrs. The decision to this effect was taken at a cabinet meeting in Bhopal on July 30, 2018.
According to official information, it will be a comprehensive program and spread across all the villages,
blocks and districts of Madhya Pradesh, where rallies will be organized to mark the day. The martyrs will
be paid homage and the relatives of the martyrs will also be honoured on the day. Ministers, members of
Parliament and state legislative assembly and chief Minister himself will meet family members of
martyrs on the occasion to express gratitude for supreme sacrifice done by their near and dear for the
nation.
17. Which acclaimed personality has been selected for 2018 Rajiv Gandhi Sadbhavana Award for
promoting communal harmony and peace.?
[A] Raghuram Rajan
[B] Muzaffar Ali
[C] Amitabh Bachchan
[D] Gopalkrishna Gandhi ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: D [Gopalkrishna Gandhi]

Notes:
Gopalkrishna Gandhi, the former West Bengal governor, has been selected for 2018 Rajiv Gandhi
Sadbhavana Award for his outstanding contribution towards the promotion of communal harmony,
peace and goodwill. The award will be presented to him at a special ceremony on August 20 at Jawahar
Bhawan. The award, which carries a citation and cash amount of Rs 10 lakh, is given on the occasion of
the birthday of former prime minister Rajiv Gandhi. It was instituted to commemorate the lasting
contribution made by him to promote peace, communal harmony and fight against violence.
18. The 2018 World Rangers Day (WRD) is observed on which date?
[A] July 29
[B] July 30
[C] July 31
[D] July 28
Correct Answer: C [July 31]
Notes:
The World Rangers Day (WRD) is celebrated every year on July 31 to remember and appreciate the
crucial services rendered by rangers who protect, conserve and preserve the biodiversity of our forests
at the cost of their lives. The day also commemorates all the selfless men and women who lost their lives
protecting defenseless animals against human greed in the line of duty.
19. The famous Goddess Meenakshi Amman temple, which has got its first non-Brahmin as
‘archaka’ (priest), is located in which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Karnataka
[D] Andhra Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
The Meenakshi Amman temple is a historic Hindu temple located on the southern bank of the Vaigai
River in the temple city of Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Recently, it is in news because the famous Goddess
Meenakshi temple has got its first non-Brahmin as ‘archaka’ (priest), 12 years after the Tamil Nadu
government passed an order for appointment of people from any caste as priests. The new priest,
belonging to a backward caste, was among the 206 people who had undergone training conducted by the
ancient temple administration. The temple has appointed the priest with conditions which included that
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he could be suspended if he violated the ‘Agama’ rules, a manual for worship of the deity, rituals and
construction of temples.
20. The United States has granted Strategic Trade Authorization-1 (STA-1) to which South Asian
country to ease export of high-tech items?
[A] Maldives
[B] India
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Pakistan
Correct Answer: B [India]
Notes:
The United States has recently granted Strategic Trade Authorization-1 (STA-1) status to India that will
ease export of high-tech items. The designation authorises the export, re-export and transfer (in-
country) of specified items on the Commerce Control List (CCL) to destinations posing a low risk of
unauthorised or impermissible uses. Currently, there are 36 countries on STA-1 list, almost all from the
Nato and ANZUS alliance. India is the only South Asian country to be on the list. Other Asian countries
designated as STA-1 are Japan and South Korea. Till recently India was designated as STA-2 countries
along with seven others. According to the Department of Commerce, items that are eligible for export to
STA1 destinations or nationals includeramkishan
items that are subject to control for: national security (NS),
chemical or biological weapons (CB), nuclear nonproliferation (NP), regional stability (RS), crime control
(CC) and significant items (SI).
21. What is the current repo rate, as per 3rd bi-monthly monetary policy review for of 2018-19 of
the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?
[A] 6.50%
[B] 6.00%
[C] 6.25%
[D] 6.75%
Correct Answer: A [6.50%]
Notes:
The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) hiked policy repo rate by 25
basis points to 6.50% in its third bi-monthly monetary policy review of 2018-19. Repo rate is the rate at
which the RBI lends money to commercial banks in the event of any shortfall of funds. Reverse repo rate,
the rate at which the Reserve Bank borrows money from commercial banks within the country, was
adjusted to 6.25%. Accordingly, the Marginal Standing Facility (MSF) rate and the Bank Rate too stand
adjusted at 6.75%. This time too, RBI has maintained neutral stance with an objective of achieving the
medium-term target for headline inflation of 4 per cent while supporting growth.
22. Which Indian-Australian mathematician has bestowed with the prestigious 2018 Fields medal?
[A] C.S. Seshadri
[B] Akshay Venkatesh
[C] Calyampudi Radha krishna
[D] Narendra Karmarkar
Correct Answer: B [Akshay Venkatesh]
Notes:
Akshay Venkatesh, a renowned Indian-Australian mathematician, has won the 2018 Fields Medal for his
profound contributions to an exceptionally broad range of subjects in mathematics. Venkatesh is one of
four winners of mathematics’ top honour known as the Nobel prize for math. The Fields medals are
awarded every four years to the most promising mathematicians under the age of 40. Each winner
receives a 15,000 Canadian-dollar cash prize. The other three winners are: Caucher Birkar, a Cambridge
University professor of Iranian Kurdish origin; Germany’s Peter Scholze, who teaches at the University
of Bonn and Alessio Figalli, an Italian mathematician at ETH Zurich.
23. Umbayee, the noted ghazal singer and composer has passed away. He belonged to which state?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
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[B] Assam
[C] Madhya Pradesh
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: D [Kerala]
Notes:
Umbayee (68), the noted ghazal singer and composer from Kerala, has passed away at Aluva on August 1,
2018. Born in Mattancherry, he was a disciple of Ustad Munawar Ali Khan and was known his
reinvention of several old Malayalam film songs in his own natural style. His birth name was PA
Ibrahim.
24. Dr Bhishma Narain Singh, who passed away recently, was associated with which political
party?
[A] INC
[B] BJP
[C] NCP
[D] CPI
Correct Answer: A [INC]
Notes:
Dr Bhishma Narain Singh (85), the former Union Minister and Congress leader, has passed away in
Noida on August 1, 2018. Dr Singh held various portfolios during the Congress rule led by former Prime
Minister Indira Gandhi. He was also the Governor of Assam and Tamil Nadu.
25. Which state government has launched a 360 degree nation-wide publicity campaign publicity
campaign for 2018 men’s hockey World Cup?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Goa
[C] Odisha
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: C [Odisha ]
Notes:
The Government of Odisha has launched a 360 degree nation-wide publicity campaign “Heartbeats for
Hockey” to attract fans for 2018 men’s hockey World Cup. The movement attempts to get India behind
the game by way of music, entertainment, fashion, pure sport and panel discussions. Each time anyone
holds the custom-made hockey stick, named ‘Heart Beat’, their heart beat will be recorded as a pledge to
support hockey. The ‘Heart Beat’ will take a round of the country through ‘Hockey Adda’, a curated on-
ground discussion platform for hockey players and experts. The event will take place at the Kalinga
Stadium in Bhubaneswar from November 28 to December 16. The state is the title partner for the hockey
event and Odisha Tourism is the host partner. The maximum players in the national team are also from
Odisha.
26. What is the India’s rank in the United Nation’s E-Government Development Index (EGDI)
2018?
[A] 100th
[B] 88th
[C] 75th
[D] 96th
Correct Answer: D [96th]
Notes:
India has been ranked 96th in the United Nation’s E-Government Development Index (EGDI) 2018. The
survey, released by UN every two years, noted that India has scored 100% in the first stage of the E-
Participation sub-index, followed by 95.65% in the second stage and 90.91% in the third stage. The overall
score of 0.9551 on the E-Participation sub-index has put India among top 15 countries in the list of 193
counties surveyed. In this category, India has emerged as sub-region leader. Denmark is the world
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leader, both on E-Government index and E-Participation sub-index.

27. Which union ministry has launched a desktop software ‘e-Aksharayan’ to enable editing of text
printed on scanned documents?
[A] Ministry of Human Resource Development
[B] Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology
[C] Ministry of Information and Broadcasting
[D] Ministry of Science and Technology
Correct Answer: B [Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology]
Notes:
The Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) has launched a desktop software ‘e-
Aksharayan’ for converting any scanned or printed Indian language documents into a fully editable text
format in Unicode encoding. The text can be also saved separately. The application is free of cost and
supports editing in 7 Indian languages viz. Hindi, Bangla, Malayalam, Gurmukhi, Tamil, Kannada &
Assamese.
28. Which Indian personality has won the 2018 International Contributions Award given by the
Association for Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), USA?
[A] K Anvar Sadath ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[B] Kapil Bansal

[C] Harish Bhatt
[D] P S Mohan
Correct Answer: A [K Anvar Sadath]
Notes:
K. Anvar Sadath, the vice chairman and executive director of the Kerala Infrastructure and Technology
for Education (KITE), has won the 2018 International Contributions Award given by the Association for
Educational Communications and Technology (AECT), USA. He has been chosen for the award to
recognize his outstanding contribution to the field of educational communication and technology in an
international setting. With this, he has become the first Indian to be honoured with the International
Contributions award. The award will be presented at 2018 AECT International Convention function to be
held in Kansas City, Missouri, on October 26, 2018. The AECT is a premier professional association for
instructional design and educational technology.
29. Which country has recently launched amnesty programme for foreign workers overstaying
permits?
[A] Iran
[B] UAE
[C] Israel
[D] Jordon
Correct Answer: B [UAE]
Notes:
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has recently launched a landmark 3-month visa amnesty programme
which will benefit hundreds of illegal foreign workers, including Indians, overstaying their permits by
allowing them to leave the country without penalties and giving them six months to find a job. The UAE
is home to 2.8 million Indian expatriates, the largest expatriate community in the country. Professionally
qualified personnel constitute about 15 to 20% of the community, followed by 20% white-collar non-
professionals and the remainder 65% comprises blue-collar workers. The government did not release
specific numbers, but says thousands of people, primarily labourers from countries like India,
Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Nepal and the Philippines, will benefit from the amnesty scheme which
will facilitate their smooth return to their home countries. As per Federal Authority for Identity and
Citizenship (ICA), the entity responsible for entry and residence of foreigners in the UAE, visa violators
before August 1, 2018 will be able to rectify their status legally during the amnesty period, which will end
on October 31.
30. Which state government has approved an unemployment allowance scheme “Mukhyamantri
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Yuva Nestam”?
[A] Telangana
[B] Karnataka
[C] Andhra Pradesh
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: C [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
The Andhra Pradesh Cabinet has recently approved an unemployment allowance scheme
“Mukhyamantri Yuva Nestam” through which an allowance of Rs 1000 per month will be provided to
unemployed youth in the state. Unemployed youths with a degree or diploma between the ages of 22 and
35 years are eligible to avail the benefit. The state government will set up a website for the scheme by
the end of August, where a 15-day registration window will be open for potential beneficiaries of the
scheme. The amount will be directly transferred into their bank account. The state government decided
to implement this scheme to benefit as many as 12 lakh youths of the state. It has also been decided that
20,000 job vacancies, 9,000 teacher posts and other department vacancies will be filled.
31. Who was the recipient of Outstanding Parliamentarian Award for 2015?
[A] Najma Heptullah
[B] Bhartruhari Mahtab ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[C] Hukum Dev Narayan

[D] Ghulam Nabi Azad
Correct Answer: D [Ghulam Nabi Azad]
Notes:
The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind presented the Outstanding Parliamentarian Award (OPA) for
the years 2013-2017 in New Delhi on August 1, 2018. Dr Najma Heptullah, the Manipur’s governor and 5-
times Rajya Sabha member, won the award for 2013. Meanwhile, BJP’s Lok Sabha member Hukum Dev
Narayan was the recipient of OPA for 2014, Congress leader Ghulam Nabi Azad for 2015, Trinamool
Congress’ Dinesh Trivedi for 2016 and Bhartruhari Mahtab of the Lok Biju Janata Dal (BJD) for 2017. The
OPA is an award given by the Indian Parliamentary Group (IPG) to an outstanding sitting Member of
Parliament (MP) for overall contribution in the Parliament. It was instituted in 1992 by Shivraj Patil, who
was the Speaker of Lok Sabha from 1991 to 1996.
32. Which state government will setup a state of the art “B-Hub” for biotech and biopharma
sector?
[A] Maharashtra
[B] Telangana
[C] Goa
[D] Sikkim
Correct Answer: B [Telangana ]
Notes:
The Telangana government will setup a state of the art “B-Hub” for biotech and biopharma sector in
Genome Valley, Hyderabad. It’s a first-of-its-kind initiative in the country, aimed at providing much-
needed support to the biopharma research and development activities, featuring a scale-up
manufacturing facility along with a turnkey incubator, lab space module at GLP grade spreading over a
built-up area of 40,000 sq.ft. This end-to-end biopharma scale-up manufacturing facility will give
domestic companies the required impetus here on par with Korea, China and France who have taken
lead in biopharma innovation. The estimated project cost of B-Hub is Rs 60 crore and the facility is to be
set up through Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in Genome Valley, which is the India’s first organised
cluster for life sciences R&D and clean manufacturing activities.
33. Which Indian origin personality has clinched the title of MasterChef Australia 2018?
[A] Sashi Cheliah
[B] Aarti Sequeira
[C] Floyd Cardoz
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[D] Vikas Khanna

Correct Answer: A [Sashi Cheliah]
Notes:
Sashi Cheliah, an Indian origin prison guard from Adelaide, has clinched the title of MasterChef
Australia 2018 after scoring 93 out of 100 points. He defeated fellow contestant Ben Borsht, who scored
77 out of 100. For the first round, Cheliah made a sambal prawns starter, which got him a perfect 30
while his second recipe for the grand finale was a fish curry and cumin rice dish that he made to honour
his aunt. The winner took home the MasterChef Australia trophy and a winning amount of $2,50,000
(almost Rs 1.7 crore) while the first runner-up was awarded $40,000 (around Rs 27 lakh).
34. Who has won the 2018 Formula One Hungarian Grand Prix tournament?
[A] Lewis Hamilton
[B] Sebastian Vettel
[C] Valtteri Bottas
[D] Daniel Ricciardo
Correct Answer: A [Lewis Hamilton]
Notes:
Lewis Hamilton, a British racing driver who races in Formula One for Mercedes AMG Petronas, has won
the 2018 Hungarian Grand Prix at the Hungaroring circuit. It is his sixth Hungarian Grand Prix title and
also 67th career victory.

35. The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has launched which dedicated portal to
connect cargo owners and shippers with real time data on availability of vessels?
[A] VOCAL
[B] FUCAL
[C] DUCAL
[D] FOCAL
Correct Answer: D [FOCAL]
Notes:
The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) has launched a dedicated portal – Forum of Cargo
Owners and Logistics Operators (FOCAL) – to connect cargo owners and shippers with real time data on
availability of vessels. The landmark e-connect measure will enable direct interaction among the vessel
operators, shippers and cargo owners as currently, there is no platform to know the availability of
vessels in the market. It has been designed and developed by the in-house IT Department and the traffic
wing of IWAI as part of its preparedness for optimal use of its ongoing capacity development on various
National Waterways. FOCAL will facilitate responses from the logistic operators against the
requirement raised by cargo owners and vice-versa. The users can register on the portal to key in the
availability and details of vessels or the available cargo, as the case may be. Cargo owners will be able to
put details like the origin, destination, type of cargo etc.
36. Which government organisation will host Investors’ Conference for the Holistic Development
of Islands?
[A] Ministry of Home Affairs
[B] Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
[C] Niti Aayog
[D] Ministry of Earth Sciences
Correct Answer: C [Niti Aayog]
Notes:
On August 10, the NITI Aayog will host an Investors’ Conference for the Holistic Development of Islands
at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra and will be inaugurated by Amitabh Kant (CEO of NITI Aayog). The purpose
of the conference is to attract investments for the sustainable development of eco-tourism projects on a
Public Private Partnership (PPP) basis in the Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands. Approx 11
anchor tourism projects are proposed to be implemented with private sector participation under
suitable risk-sharing model and through open-competitive bidding.
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37. Which state government has recently constituted two committees to deal with a possible
influx of illegal immigrants?
[A] Manipur
[B] Nagaland
[C] Tripura
[D] Meghalaya
Correct Answer: A [Manipur]
Notes:
Following the publication of the final draft of National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam, the Manipur
government has constituted two committees – state and district level – to deal with a possible influx of
illegal immigrants. The State Level Monitoring Committee will monitor the entry or presence of illegal
immigrants in the state and take steps for creating adequate public awareness to counter the situation.
It will be headed by Special Secretary (Home) while the Deputy Commissioners and Superintendents of
Police as its members. The district level committee will be headed by the concerned deputy
commissioners while Superintendent of Police, SDOs, SDPO, SDCs, OCs will be the members. The
committee with local bodies would likely to conduct headcounts if needed.
38. Jalees Sherwani, who passed away recently, was the veteran personality from which field?
[A] Photo Journalism ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[B] Mimicry
[C] Film Industry
[D] Sports
Correct Answer: C [Film Industry]
Notes:
Jalees Sherwani (70), the veteran screenplay writer, has passed away in Mumbai. Maharashtra on August
1, 2018. He had penned lyrics for several Salman Khan films like “Dabangg”, “Wanted” and “Tere Naam”.
Apart from writing dialogues for “Sangam” and “Loafer”, Sherwani also penned lyrics for films like
“Partner”, “Hello”, “Garv” and “Hello Brother”.
39. NITI Aayog has launched which global mobility hackathon to crowdsource solutions for future
of mobility in India?
[A] Lock Hack
[B] Beware Hack
[C] Move Hack
[D] Crowd Hack
Correct Answer: C [Move Hack]
Notes:
NITI Aayog has launched a global mobility hackathon ” Move Hack” to crowdsource solutions for future
of mobility in India. Focused on 10 themes and open to individuals from all nationalities, the hackathon
will have an online leg, followed by a Singapore leg, and the finals in New Delhi. The purpose of
MoveHack is to bring about innovative, dynamic and scalable solutions to problems pertaining to
mobility. It has two-pronged campaign approach: (a) “Just Code It”: aimed at solutions through
innovations in technology / product / software and data analysis, and (b) “Just Solve It”: innovative
business ideas or sustainable solutions to transform mobility infrastructure through technology. The
hackathon is organized in partnership with Government of Singapore and is powered by Hacker Earth.
PwC is the Knowledge Partner and NASSCOM is the Strategic Partner.
40. Which Indian golfer has won the 2018 Fiji International Golf title?
[A] Gaganjeet Bhullar
[B] Arjun Atwal
[C] Ajeetesh Sandhu
[D] Shiv Kapur
Correct Answer: A [Gaganjeet Bhullar ]
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Notes:
Indian golfer Gaganjeet Bhullar has won the 2018 Fiji International title. It is his first win on the
European Tour, ninth Asian Tour and 10th international title overall. Thus, he became the most
successful Indian player on Asian Tour and the first Indian to win on Australasia Tour. Bhullar joined
Arjun Atwal, Jeev Milkha Singh, SSP Chawrasia and Anirban Lahiri as the only Indians to win on the
European Tour as this was sanctioned by Asian, Australasia and European Tours. The victory also
granted him an exemption on all three Tours till end of 2019. Other Indian in fray, Ajeetesh Sandhu
scored 71 in the final round to end his campaign at the tied 43rd spot.
41. Who has been appointed the new CEO of the Uralungal Labour Contract Co-operative Society
Ltd (ULCCS)?
[A] K Kumar
[B] Raveena Kumari
[C] Meera Kumar
[D] Raveendran Kasthuri
Correct Answer: D [Raveendran Kasthuri]
Notes:
Raveendran Kasthuri, a Kannur native, has assumed charge as new CEO of the Uralungal Labour
Contract Co-operative Society Ltd (ULCCS) on| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
ramkishan gugulotu August 6. ULCCS | is one of the largest Co-operative
Societies in India. Earlier, he was with IBM as its vice president and head of integrated operation. The
ULCCS was formed in 1925 by the eminent social reformer Guru Vagbhatananda in a remote hamlet
called Uralungal in Kozhikode district, as a novel mass movement against the anarchies of the caste
system prevalent in those days. The society has now grown to be one of the biggest Labour Contract
Societies in the country, providing direct employment to more than 6000 workers from rural areas. It is
now having an asset worth Rs 99402 lakhs.
42. The 10th annual conference on oral implantology has recently held in which city?
[A] New Jersey
[B] New Zealand
[C] New Delhi
[D] New Guinea
Correct Answer: C [New Delhi ]
Notes:
On August 3, the 10th International conference on oral implantology was held in New Delhi to enhance
the awareness and knowledge on the latest innovations and technologies in oral implantology world
over. The 3-day conference hosted by Academy of Oral Implantology (AOI) has representations by
doctors from the UK, the US, Israel, Austria, Germany, Italy, South Korea and Spain. Oral implantology is
a highly dynamic specialty and has over the years, introduced innumerable modifications and
improvements for dental treatment of patients. The vision is to promote latest technologies and
encourage younger doctors, in the field of innovation. Experienced professionals will share their work,
expertise with the younger crop and this translates into sharing of knowledge from different parts of the
globe. Various companies from the medical field have also showcased their advanced products and
technologies. Teeth decay, loss of teeth due to old age, diseases or accidents, bad and crooked teeth, teeth
decay happen due to bad oral hygiene. The event also seeks to raise awareness about oral hygiene for
better dental care.
43. Which state government has launched a rural cleanliness and sanitation campaign
“Swachhameva Jayate”?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Goa
[D] Karnataka
Correct Answer: D [Karnataka]
Notes:
The Karnataka government has launched a rural cleanliness and sanitation campaign “Swachhameva
Jayate” to make every citizen in rural Karnataka take a pledge of cleanliness. The aim of the campaign is
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to boost the Swachh Survkekshan Grameen 2018 (SSG 2018) survey in all the districts with the help of
school children. Since the inception of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the government of Karnataka has
constructed a total of 22 lakh toilets in 29,736 villages. The state needs another 5 lakh toilets in its rural
areas before October 2 to achieve Open Defecation Free (ODF) status. The 2018 SSG survey will rank all
Indian districts and states on the basis of qualitative and quantitative evaluation of sanitation status of
the villages and will run from August 1 to 31. While the survey will target 698 districts, 6,980 villages,
34,900 public places randomly across the country, Swachha Meva Jayate will aim to take messages
about the parameters of the survey to every rural household in Karnataka. The survey will measure and
rank villages across India on the basis of availability and access to toilets, cleanliness of public spaces,
and feedback and opinions of citizens.
44. Which country’s researchers have claimed to create the world’s first single-chromosome yeast
?
[A] Germany
[B] United States
[C] China
[D] UK
Correct Answer: C [China]
Notes: ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Molecular biologists at the Centre for Excellence in Molecular Plant Sciences in China have claimed to
create the world’s first single-chromosome yeast while not affecting the majority of its functions. If their
claim is true then this breakthrough could help in furthering research related to aging and diseases in
humans. They used CRISPR-Cas9 genome-editing to create a single-chromosome yeast strain. Using the
CRISPR-Cas9, the research team removed the DNA at the telomeres, the ends of chromosomes that
protect them from degrading. They also snipped out the centromeres, sequences in the middle that are
important to DNA replication. The research may also pave the way for new man-made species in the
future.
45. Which state government has launched “Horn Not Ok’’ awareness campaign?
[A] Uttarakhand
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Gujarat
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: B [Himachal Pradesh]
Notes:
The Himachal Pradesh government has launched “Horn Not Ok’’ awareness campaign in Shimla and
Mandi along with a statewide mobile application ‘shaur nahin’ (no noise). The main aim of the campaign
is to spread awareness of unnecessary blowing horn as it creates unnecessary noise pollution. The other
towns of the state will also be brought under the purview of no honking zones after the successful
execution of this campaign in the two tourist places for 2 months. Though, no-honking rule will not be
applicable on emergency vehicles, including ambulances and fire tenders. The “Shor Nahin” application
has been developed to report any noise pollution complaint to the authorities. It’s an initiative of the
Department of Environment, Science and Technology in association with the NIC of Himachal Pradesh.
It allows a user to lodge a complaint with the officials concerned, including deputy commissioner,
superintendent of police and sub divisional magistrate, who can upload the action taken report on the
app.
46. The Mughalsarai junction has recently renamed as Deen Dayal Upadhyaya railway station. It is
located in which state?
[A] Bihar
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Uttarakhand
[D] Delhi
Correct Answer: B [Uttar Pradesh ]
Notes:
In Uttar Pradesh, the iconic Mughalsarai junction has been formally renamed after RSS ideologue Deen
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Dayal Upadhyay (DDU), who was found dead in mysterious circumstances near the station in February
1968. The DDU station is more than 150 years old and one of the busiest railway stations in India. The
station contains the largest railway marshaling yard in Asia. It was inaugurated by BJP national
president Amit shah. Beside this, he also flagged off a passenger train with an all-women crew and a
goods train at the DDU station. As per Railway officials, it will be the first time in India that an all-
woman crew will run a train. Mughalsarai is also the birthplace of former Prime Minister Lal Bahadur
Shastri. It is a part of the Chandauli Parliamentary seat which is presently held by UP BJP president
Mahendra Nath Pandey.
47. The Election Commission of India (ECI) has conducted the first-ever Orientation Workshop on
Election Management for IAS Asstt Secretaries in which city?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Jaipur
[C] Mumbai
[D] Banglore
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi]
Notes:
The Election Commission of India (ECI) has conducted the first-ever Orientation Workshop on Election
Management for IAS Asstt Secretaries ramkishan
in New Delhi on August 3, 2018. The aim of the workshop is to
familiarize the Assistant Secretaries with all facets of Electoral Management before they are required to
handle crucial assignments in conducting Elections in their field postings soon. In it, Chief Election
Commissioner Om Prakash Rawat advised the officers to be prepared for facing the newer challenges
like Data harvesting; targeted messaging & profiling; money and media influencers.
48. Which Indian developer has claimed to develop the world’s first Hindi speaking realistic
humanoid robot “Rashmi”?
[A] Anand Kumar
[B] Surabhi Patel
[C] Kanwaljeet Sethi
[D] Ranjit Srivastava
Correct Answer: D [Ranjit Srivastava]
Notes:
Ranjit Srivastava, the Ranchi-based software developer, has claimed to develop the world’s first Hindi
speaking realistic humanoid robot and India’s first lip-synching robot. The robot “Rashmi” has developed
in 2 years at a minimum cost of Rs 50,000. In simple words, Srivastava developed an Indian version of a
social humanoid robot ‘Sophia’ that was developed by a Hong Kong based company. The robot can speak
Hindi, Bhojpuri and Marathi along with English. It uses Linguistic Interpretation (LI), Artificial
Intelligence (AI), visual data and facial recognition systems. It functions under a specially designed
software and linguistic interpretation system. The LI programme analyses the feeling of the
conversation while AI program analyses the conversation to extract the response from the device.
49. Which country has been elected as the President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting
Development (AIBD)?
[A] India
[B] Japan
[C] Srilanka
[D] Iran
Correct Answer: A [India ]
Notes:
India has been elected as the President of the Asia-Pacific Institute for Broadcasting Development (AIBD)
for a period of 2 years. India got elected against Iran during voting which took place at the 44th annual
gathering of AIBD in Colombo, Sri Lanka on August 4, 2018. Director General of All India Radio (AIR) F.
Sheheryar was re-elected as chair of the executive board while Sri Lanka was elected as vice-chair. The
broadcasters from 26 countries in the region including India are full members of the organization. AIBD,
established in 1977 under the auspices of UNESCO, is a unique regional inter-governmental organisation
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and is mandated to achieve a vibrant and cohesive electronic media environment in the Asia-Pacific
region through policy and resource development.
50. The joint military exercise ‘Maitree 2018’ has started between India and which country?
[A] Thailand
[B] Nepal
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Vietnam
Correct Answer: A [Thailand ]
Notes:
The two week-long joint military exercise “Maitree 2018′ has started between Indian Army and Royal
Thai Army in Thailand on August 6 with a focus on enhancing anti-terror cooperation between the two
sides. The exercise will emphasize to hone the tactical and technical skills in joint counter insurgency
and counter terrorist operations in rural and urban scenario under UN mandate. Both sides will jointly
train, plan and execute a series of well developed tactical drills for neutralization of likely threats that
may be encountered in urban warfare scenario. Experts from both sides will also hold detailed
discussions to share their experience on varied topics for mutual benefit. Exercise Maitree will
contribute immensely in developing mutual understanding and bonhomie between the two armies in
order to counter terrorism.
51. Which state government has signed pact with Tech Mahindra to establish India’s first
Blockchain district?
[A] Odisha
[B] Karnataka
[C] Telangana
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: C [Telangana ]
Notes:
The Telangana government has signed pact with Tech Mahindra to establish the Blockchain district in
Hyderabad, a first-of-its-kind Centre of Excellence for Blockchain. The MoU was signed during the 3-day
International congress at HICC in Hyderabad. Initially it would be a virtual cluster, connecting with the
stakeholders working in the emerging technology. It would have a physical building at a later phase.
Tech Mahindra, as a founding member of the Blockchain district, will provide platform and technology
assistance to all the incubators in the district. Eleven01 Foundation will develop an India-specific
protocol that will define the standards for usage of Blockchain. Besides, the International Institute of
Information Technology, Hyderabad (IIIT-H) will make part of its protocol development research to the
virtual cluster of Blockchain district.
52. Which IIT institute has developed the first indigenous microprocessors ‘RISECREEK’ under
Project Shakti?
[A] IIT Madras
[B] IIT Kanpur
[C] IIT Bombay
[D] IIT Delhi
Correct Answer: A [IIT Madras ]
Notes:
The group of computer scientists and a team of students from the IIT- Madras have developed the first
of a family of six industry-standard microprocessors under Project Shakti. The initial batch of 300 chips,
named ‘RISECREEK’, has been fabricated for free at the Intel facility in Oregon (US), which was used to
run the Linux operating system. The design of microprocessors is open source. They optimize power use
and compete with international units such as the Cortex A5 from Advanced RISC Machines (ARM). The
entire team was lead by Dr. Neel Gala, who is an alumnus of IIT-Madras. The team had used a BlueSpec
System Verilog language, which helped them capture the processor functionality. At a frequency of 350
MHz, RISECREEK can meet the demands of defence and strategic equipment such as NAVIC (Indian
Regional Navigation Satellite) and Internet of Things (IoT) electronics.
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53. Rajinder Kumar Dhawan, who passed away recently, was associated with which political
party?
[A] All India Trinamool Congress
[B] Bharatiya Janata Party
[C] Communist Party of India
[D] Indian National Congress
Correct Answer: D [Indian National Congress]
Notes:
Rajinder Kumar Dhawan (81), the veteran Congress leader and a former Union minister, has passed away
in New Delhi on August 6, 2018. As personal secretary and confidante to Prime Minister Indira Gandhi,
Dhawan was a witness to Indira Gandhi assassination in 1984. During his years as Indira Gandhi’s
personal secretary, from 1962 to 1984, Dhawan reportedly wielded immense clout, with some claiming
that he controlled information and access to the then prime minister. During the Emergency years
(1975-77), Dhawan was among Indira Gandhi’s inner circle of leaders. However, Indira’s son, Rajiv, after
initially removing Dhawan from his post, cleared him of all charges. He continued to retain enormous
clout in the Congress even after Rajiv Gandhi’s death and was subsequently elected twice to Rajya Sabha
and was a member of the Congress Working Committee. He was Minister for Urban Development when
P V Narasimha Rao was Prime Minister.
54. The Central Government has approved 122 new research projects worth over Rs 100 crore
under which scheme?
[A] IMPRINT-3
[B] IMPRINT-4
[C] IMPRINT-2
[D] IMPRINT-1
Correct Answer: C [IMPRINT-2]
Notes:
The Central Government has approved 122 new research projects of Rs 112 crore under its Impacting
Research Innovation and Technology ‘IMPRINT-2’ scheme. The aim of the initiative is to advance
research in energy, security, and healthcare domains in the high education institutions. IMPRINT is the
first of its kind government supported initiative to address the major science and engineering
challenges that India must address and champion to enable, empower and embolden the nation for
inclusive growth and self-reliance. The proposals were approved at the IMPRINT 2 Apex Committee
meeting held in New Delhi on August 4, 2018..
55. Which noted Kannada film producer has passed away, who was the only Kannadiga to chair
the Indian Film Chamber of Commerce?
[A] Srinivasa Murthy
[B] Sahaya Sheelan Shadrach
[C] V. Harikrishna
[D] M Bhakthavatsala
Correct Answer: D [M Bhakthavatsala]
Notes:
M Bhakthavatsala (84), the well-known Kannada film producer, distributor and exhibitor, has passed
away in Bengaluru, Karnataka on August 6, 2018. He was an officer in Hindustan Machine Tools (HMT)
and later turned to films through distribution and managing theatres. He was known for producing
critically acclaimed movies like ‘Sandhyaraga’ and ‘Kanneshwara Rama’. Bhakthavatsala served as
president of Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce for 7 years and was the only Kannadiga to chair the
Indian Film Chamber of Commerce. He had diverse interests such as literature, mountaineering, etc.
56. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has signed pact with which bank for a long-
term unsecured loan to the tune of Rs 25,000 crore?
[A] Bank of Maharashtra
[B] Punjab National Bank
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[C] State Bank of India

[D] HDFC Bank
Correct Answer: C [State Bank of India ]
Notes:
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has signed pact with the State Bank of India (SBI) for a
long-term unsecured loan to the tune of Rs 25,000 crore. This is SBI’s highest long-term unsecured loan
to any entity and also the largest ever loan sanctioned to NHAI. There is no principal repayment liability
for initial 3 years. After 3 years, the repayment would be done in 14 equal half yearly instalments. The
total loan tenure is 10 years. NHAI can repay/ prepay it at any time without any prepayment penalty.
The total sanctioned amount of Rs 25000 Crore is to be disbursed within 31st March 2019. Rate of
interest would be based on one month MCLR. Interest accrued on the amount actually outstanding will
be paid on monthly basis. NHAI can draw the amount in any number of tranches, latest by 31st March
2019.
57. Who has become the first woman shuttler to win the women’s singles World Badminton
Championships for a third time?
[A] Carolina Marin
[B] PV Sindhu
[C] Akane Yamaguchi ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[D] Tai Tzu-ying

Correct Answer: A [Carolina Marin]
Notes:
Olympic champion Carolina Marin of Spain has become the first woman shuttler to win the women’s
singles World Badminton Championships thrice with an emphatic victory over P.V. Sindhu of India in
Nanjing, China on August 5, 2018. Earlier, Marin won the title in 2014 and the 2015 Jakarta edition.
Sindhu didn’t have answers to Marin’s blistering pace in the 45 minutes that the match lasted. The
second silver meant Sindhu is the only Indian to have four world championships podium finishes. She
had won two bronze medals at the 2013 Guangzhou and 2014 Copenhagen editions. In men’s singles,
Kento Momota of Japan won the title with an easy 21-13, 21-11 victory over local boy Shi Yuqi. With this
victory, Kento Momota became the first Japanese man to win the Championships.
58. Which country’s team has won the 14th edition of Women’s Hockey World Cup 2018?
[A] Spain
[B] Netherlands
[C] Ireland
[D] Australia
Correct Answer: B [Netherlands ]
Notes:
In the 14th edition of Women’s Hockey World Cup 2018, defending champions the Netherlands recorded
a stunning 6-0 victory over Ireland in the summit clash at London on August 5 to extend their unbeaten
run in all competitions to 32 matches. It must be noted that the Netherlands have been crowned the
world champions for a record 8th time. Kitty van Male, who was among the 6 different goal scorers,
finished the tournament as the top scorer with 8 goals. Spain won the third place match by beating
Australia 3-1 to claim their first ever World Cup medal. India finished the tournament at the 8th spot.
59. Who has become the first Indian to be appointed a council member of ICANN panel Country
Code Names Supporting Organization (ccNSO)?
[A] Ajay Data
[B] Kusum Sharma
[C] Susheela Jain
[D] Shubhankar Saxena
Correct Answer: A [Ajay Data ]
Notes:
Dr. Ajay Data from Jaipur, the Founder and CEO of Data XGen Plus, has become the first Indian to be
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appointed a council member of ICANN panel Country Code Names Supporting Organization (ccNSO). He
has got a 2-year term and will take up the position during ICANN ‘s 63rd Annual General Meeting in
Spain in October 2018. He will represent India at a global level and will also be the custodian of Asia,
Australia and Pacific Islands as a member of ccNSO. The ccNSO is ICANN’s policy-development body for
global issues regarding country code top-level domains (ccTLD) within the ICANN structure. The
Internet Corporation for Assigned Names and Numbers (ICANN) is a non-profit organization
responsible for coordinating the maintenance and procedures of several databases related to the
namespaces and numerical spaces of the Internet, ensuring the network’s stable and secure operation
60. The elephants at which national park in Madhya Pradesh has enjoyed week-long picnic?
[A] Bandhavgarh National Park
[B] Madhav National Park
[C] Panna National Park
[D] Kanha Tiger Reserve
Correct Answer: D [Kanha Tiger Reserve]
Notes:
In Madhya Pradesh, the elephants at the Kanha National Park (KNP) are on a week-long picnic. This
picnic, which is arranged every year, includes massaging for the elephants and a delicious menu. The
purpose of a picnic is to provide family time to Jumbo. The Kanha National Park management has been
organizing such picnic for the serviceramkishan
of more than a dozen elephants for the past 7-8 years. Picnic
includes bathing of elephants, massaging as well as special health tests and treatments. Elephants are
given their favourite food like mango, sugarcane, pineapple, banana, coconut and Jaggery. During this
period, all the elephants of National Park are residing in one place as a bigger family. Picnic is also
helpful in increasing the population of elephants.
61. Which country’s U-20 football team has won the 2018 Cotif Cup football tournament ?
[A] Venezuela
[B] Mauritania
[C] India
[D] Argentina
Correct Answer: D [Argentina]
Notes:
Argentina defeated Russia in the final match. India had won one of the matches in tournament.
62. Which city to host the 22nd edition of ‘Parampara series – National Festival of Music and
Dance’ festival 2018?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Pune
[C] Lucknow
[D] Hyderabad
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi ]
Notes:
The 22nd edition of ‘Parampara series – National Festival of Music and Dance’ festival will be held at
Kamani Auditorim in New Delhi from August 10, 2018. The purpose of the festival is to offer a platform
to young talents trying to make their foothold in the world of art and culture. It is organised by Natya
Tarangini led by Padma Bhushan awardee Kuchipudi couple Raja and Radha Reddy. The 3-day event will
also see performances by veteran classical dance couple ‘The Dhananjayans’ (Shanta and Vannadil
Pudiyaveettil Dhananjayan) and Kathak exponent Uma Dogra. The festival has featured artistes like
Grammy winning instrumentalist Pandit Vishwa Mohan Bhatt, Carnatic vocalist Abhishek Raghuram,
Khyal singers Pandit Rajan and Sajan Mishra are among the many eminent artistes.
63. The world’s first-ever thermal battery plant has been inaugurated in which Indian state?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Himachal Pradesh
[C] Karnataka
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[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: A [Andhra Pradesh]
Notes:
On August 6, the world’s first-ever facility to create thermal batteries has been inaugurated in Andhra
Pradesh by the state’s Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu in Amaravati. The thermal battery plant,
which is manufactured by the Bharat Energy Storage Technology Private Limited (BEST), is expected to
start commercial operations by May 2019. The technology will help in mitigating carbon emissions and
is best suited for grid balancing and stabilisations. It will also be used to store energy for
telecommunication, commercial establishments, electric vehicles and highway charging stations. It can
also be effectively used in remote locations, such as hilly terrains and islands. The BEST also aims to set
up a Greenfield Project in India, at an estimated cost of Rs 660 crores, through which nearly 3000 jobs
are expected to be created within three years’ time. It must be noted that the thermal battery technology
was patented in India by Dr Patrick Glynn in 2016.
64. The Parliament of India has passed which Constitutional Amendment Bill to grant
constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC)?
[A] 123rd Constitutional Amendment Bill
[B] 143rd Constitutional Amendment Bill
[C] 133rd Constitutional Amendment Bill
[D] 153rd Constitutional Amendment Bill

Correct Answer: A [123rd Constitutional Amendment Bill ]
Notes:
The Parliament of India has passed the 123rd Constitutional Amendment Bill, which grants
constitutional status to the National Commission for Backward Classes (NCBC). The bill was passed
after the House repealed the NCBC Act, 1993. It will contribute to the empowerment of the OBC
communities across India. The bill states that the President may specify the socially and educationally
backward classes in the various states and union territories. He may do this in consultation with the
Governor of the concerned state. It will give the institution all powers to safeguard the rights of the
socially and educationally backward classes and fulfils a long pending commitment of the central govt to
the OBCs. The Clause-3 (5) of the Bill gives the proposed Commission the power to inquire into
complaints of deprivation of rights and safeguards. Clause 3 (8) gives it the powers of a civil court trying
a suit and allows it to summon anyone, require documents to be produced and receive evidence on
affidavit.
65. NITI Aayog’s International Conference on “Sustainable Growth through Material Recycling:
Policy Prescriptions” was held in which city?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Mumbai
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Kanpur
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi ]
Notes:
NITI Aayog’s International Conference on “Sustainable Growth through Material Recycling: Policy
Prescriptions”was held at Pravasi Bharatiya Kendra in New Delhi on August 6, 2018. It was inaugurated
by the Union Minister of Road Transport, Highways & Ganga Rejuvenation, Nitin Gadkari. The day long
conference brought together a host of experts for identifying policy prescriptions for the development
and growth of material recycling in India towards creating more jobs, reduce dependence on exports,
protect the environment and take steps towards adopting circular economy concepts.
66. Which country is hosting the communication exercise “Pacific Endeavor-2018 (PE-18)” under
the Multinational Communications Interoperability Program (MCIP)?
[A] India
[B] Nepal
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Myanmar
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Correct Answer: B [Nepal]

Notes:
The communication exercise “Pacific Endeavor-2018 (PE-18)” under the Multinational Communications
Interoperability Program (MCIP) has started in Kathmandu, Nepal on August 6, 2018. The basic objective
of 12 day exercise is to develop common communications operating procedures to enable military forces
in the Asia Pacific region to collectively work in the wake of disaster. Around 270 personnel from 20
Asia-Pacific Countries are participating in the exercise, which is jointly organised by the Nepali Army
and United States Pacific Command (USPC). The Pacific Endeavor began in 2005 and it focuses on
establishing rapid and effective inter-operable communication systems to jointly act in disaster relief
operations.
67. Which country ‘s women team has clinched gold in the Blitz event at the Asian Nations Chess
Cup 2018?
[A] China
[B] Vietnam
[C] India
[D] Bhutan
Correct Answer: C [India]
The Indian women chess team has clinched the gold in the Blitz event at the Asian Nations Chess Cup
2018 at Hamadan, Iran on August 3. It’s India’s first gold-medal finish at the event since 2014. The Indian
team comprising Harika Dronavalli, Eesha Karavade, Padmini Rout, Vaishali R and Aakanksha Haga left
the teams from Vietnam and China behind to clinch gold. Apart from this, they also bagged a silver and a
bronze in the Rapid and Classical categories, respectively. India (1st) finished with 21.5 points, Vietnam
(2nd) settled for silver with 18.5 and China (3rd) bagged bronze with 17.5.
68. The Union Government has constituted a Group of Ministers (GoM) to look into issues related
to the proposed mega free trade agreement Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership
(RCEP). The GoM will be headed by whom?
[A] Piyush Goyal
[B] Suresh Prabhu
[C] Nirmala Sitharaman
[D] Hardeep Singh Puri
Correct Answer: B [Suresh Prabhu ]
Notes:
The Union government has constituted a 4-member Group of Ministers (GoM), headed by the Union
Minister of Commerce and Industry Suresh Prabhu, to look into issues related to the proposed mega free
trade agreement Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The GoM will deliberate upon
the issues being raised by the industry as well as government departments. There is concern across
ministries that joining the accord could severely dent local manufacturing and jobs and that China’s
$60-billion trade surplus with India will swell even further as it floods the market with cheap goods at
zero tariff. Apart from Prabhu, the panel comprises interim finance minister Piyush Goyal, defence
minister (former commerce minister) Nirmala Sitharaman and housing and urban affairs minister
Hardeep Singh Puri. The RCEP bloc consists of 10 ASEAN group members (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia,
Malaysia, Myanmar, Singapore, Thailand, the Philippines, Laos and Vietnam) and their six FTA partners
— India, China, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. The first meeting of this group is
expected to be held on 10 August.
69. Which renowned personality was the author of the Tamil historical novel “Thenpandi
Singam”?
[A] Muthuvel Karunanidhi
[B] Ilaiyaraaja
[C] M. Nassar
[D] Brahmanandam Kanneganti
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Correct Answer: A [Muthuvel Karunanidhi ]

Notes:
Muthuvel Karunanidhi (94), the former Tamil Nadu Chief Minister and DMK patriarch, was the author of
the Tamil historical novel “Thenpandi Singam”. The novel was based on a legendary story of Valukku
Veli, a Petty chief ruling Paganeri Nadu. Karunanidhi, who passed away in Chennai on 7th August 2018,
became the chief minister in 1971, 1989, 1996 and 2006. He was a legislator for six decades since 1957,
when he won for the first time from Kulithalai constituency, till 2016, when he emerged victorious from
Tiruvarur as a 92-year-old, barring the period between 1986 and 1989. Apart from politics, Karunanidhi
penned screenplays and dialogues for over 50 movies. He also wrote the stories of some of them like
Marudanattu Ilavarasi (1950) Mandiri Kumari (1950), Tirumbipar (1953) and Arasilangkumari (1961).
70. Under which section of the RBI Act 1934, Swaminathan Gurumurthy has been appointment as
non-official director on the central board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)?
[A] Section 8 (1) (a)
[B] Section 8 (1) (f)
[C] Section 8 (1) (e)
[D] Section 8 (1) (c)
Correct Answer: D [Section 8 (1) (c)]
As per Section 8 (1) (c) of the RBI Act 1934, Chartered Accountant Swaminathan Gurumurthy has been
appointment as non-official director on the central board of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) for a period
of 4 years. He is associated with the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh affiliate Swadeshi Jagran Manch and
is also the editor of Tamil magazine Thuglak. Besides him, the government has also appointed
businessman Satish Kashinath Marathe as another non-official director on the RBI board for 4 years.
71. UNESCO has included which Indian biosphere reserve in the list of World Network of
Biosphere Reserve (WNBR) at the 30th Session of the Man and Biosphere International
Coordinating Council?
[A] Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve
[B] Pachmarhi Biosphere Reserve
[C] Agasthyamalai Biosphere Reserve
[D] Great Nicobar Biosphere Reserve
Correct Answer: A [Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve ]
Notes:
UNESCO has included the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve (KBR) in the list of World Network of
Biosphere Reserve (WNBR) at the 30th Session of the Man and Biosphere International Coordinating
Council (ICC) in Palembang, Indonesia. With this, KBR has now become the India’s 11th internationally
designated WNBR and joined the list of other biospheres such as Nandadevi, Simlipal, Sunderbans,
Nokrek , Pachmarhi and Nilgiri. The reserve, which is located in Sikkim, includes a range of ecoclines
varying from subtropical to arctic, as well as vast natural forests in different biomes that support an
immensely rich diversity of forest types and habitats resulting in high species diversity and endemism.
The core zone of the biosphere alone has over 150 glaciers and 73 glacial lakes, the prominent one being
the famous 26-km-long Zemu glacier. It is home to a number of globally threatened fauna including
musk deer, snow leopard, red panda and Himalayan Tahr and many ethnic communities including
Lepcha, Nepalese, and Bhutia.
72. The repatriation process of Bru tribals will start from which state to Mizoram from 14th
August 2018?
[A] Bihar
[B] Bengal
[C] Assam
[D] Tripura
Correct Answer: D [Tripura]
Notes:
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The Mizoram government will start the repatriation process of Bru (Reang) tribals from Tripura to
Mizoram from August 14 to September 10. The Brus are in Tripura since late 1997 in the wake of a
communal tension triggered by the murder of a forest guard inside the Dampa Tiger Reserve on October
21, 1997 by Bru National Liberation Front (BNLF) militants. Regarding to this issue, the Centre, state
governments of Mizoram and Tripura and the Mizoram Bru Displaced People’s Forum (MBDPF), the
apex body of the Bru community in the relief camps, have on July 3 signed an agreement in New Delhi
for repatriation of all the Bru refugees from Tripura before September 30. According to the agreement,
Rs 4 lakh would be deposited in the account of the head of each repatriated Bru family, which would
mature after three years, and a payment of Rs 1.5 lakh as housing assistance. Each repatriated Bru family
would also be given Rs 5,000 through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) every month and free ration for two
years. Altogether 32,876 Brus belonging to 5,407 families are lodged in six relief camps in North Tripura
district..
73. Who will be the director of the 11th edition of the India Art Fair 2019?
[A] Imran Qureshi
[B] G Ravinder Reddy
[C] Zoya Siddiqui
[D] Jagdip Jagpal
Correct Answer: D [Jagdip Jagpal]
The 11th edition of the India Art Fair 2019 will be held from January 31 to February 3 in New Delhi. It is
best known for its strong representation of leading Indian galleries alongside selected exhibitors from
across the world. The art fair will attracts visitors with an interest in the art world, such as curators,
artists, collectors, journalists, gallerists and critics and art lovers.The director of the 4-day annual art
fair will be Jagdip Jagpal.
74. Which renowned earth scientist has become the new vice chancellor of the University of
Kashmir?
[A] Prof. Talat Ahmad
[B] Prof. Sangeeta Shukla
[C] Prof. Khurshid Ibal Andrabi
[D] Mehbooba Mufti
Correct Answer: A [Prof. Talat Ahmad]
Notes:
Prof. Talat Ahmad, the renowned earth scientist, has become the new vice chancellor of the University of
Kashmir. He succeeded Khurshid Iqbal Andrabi. Prior to this post, Ahmad was the vice chancellor of
Jamia Millia Islamia. He has been a recipient of several prestigious awards and citations, including the
National Mineral Award, 1994 from the Government of India. He has also been a fellow of the Indian
National Science Academy in New Delhi, Indian Academy of Sciences in Bangalore, fellow of the National
Academy of Sciences in Allahabad, J C Bose National Fellowship, DST, New Delhi.
75. The 4th edition of National Handloom Day (NHD-2018) is celebrated on which date?
[A] 7th Aug
[B] 8th Aug
[C] 15th Aug
[D] 22nd Aug
Correct Answer: A [7th Aug]
Notes:
The 4th edition of National Handloom Day (NHD-2018) is celebrated every year in India on August 7 to
honour Indian handloom weavers and celebrate the rich cultural legacy of handlooms in the country.
The handloom industry is one of the largest cottage industries in India. It provides direct and indirect
employment to thousands of people across regions. The 7th of August has been chosen to celebrate the
day due to its special significance in India’s history. It was on this day that the Swadeshi Movement was
launched in 1905. The movement involved revival of domestic products and production processes.
76. Italian motorcycle-maker Benelli has signed pact with which state government to set up which
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manufacturing facility in the state?

[A] Bengal
[B] Andhra Pradesh
[C] Telangana
[D] Goa
Correct Answer: C [Telangana]
Notes:
Italian motorcycle-maker Benelli has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the
Telangana government to set up a manufacturing facility at Medichal, Pochampally, Hyderabad. Under
the agreement with Adishwar Auto Ride India (AARI), a subsidiary of Mahavir Group, the assembly plant
on 3 acres in Kompally is expected to become operational by October 2018. It will have a capacity to
assemble 10,000 bikes and begin with around 100 employees. The partnership entitles AARI to assemble,
manufacture bikes and import exclusive range of Benelli bikes from Italy and South East Asia regions.
Established in 1911, Benelli is one of the oldest Italian motorcycle-manufacturer and has a presence in
over 60 countries such as America, Africa, Europe and Asia Pacific regions.
77. Who has been elected as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha?
[A] Harivansh Narayan Singh
[B] B K Hariprasad ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[C] Ananth Kumar

[D] Ram Gopal Yadav
Correct Answer: A [Harivansh Narayan Singh ]
Notes:
NDA candidate Harivansh Narayan Singh has been elected as the Deputy Chairman of the Rajya Sabha
after defeating opposition nominee B K Hariprasad on 9th August 2018. Mr Harivansh, a veteran
journalist, represents the state of Bihar in the House as a JD(U) member. He polled 125 votes as against
105 by Hariprasad in a division of voting in the House.The post of Rajya Sabha Deputy Chairman was
lying vacant since the retirement of P J Kurien on July 1, 2018.
78. Which Indian-American personality has won the International Geography Bee World
Championship 2018 in junior varsity division?
[A] Anand Sharma
[B] Avi Goel
[C] Sam Mehta
[D] Janaki Ammal
Correct Answer: B [Avi Goel]
Notes:
Avi Goel (14), the Indian-American high school student, has won the International Geography Bee World
Championship 2018 in junior varsity division in Berlin, Germany. Avi is a tenth grader at Silver Creek
High School in Evergreen, San Jose, California. He won a gold medal in 7 out of the 10 medal events, and
a silver medal in two of the events, topping the overall medals table. He also bagged the top spot in all
the three events counting towards the world championship title: the International Geography Exam, the
International Geography Showdown, and the International Geography Bee. The competition took place
from 11th to 18th of last month, bringing together over 100 of the world’s top geography students to vie
for the world championship title in the subject. The competition was held by International Academic
Competitions, a worldwide organization that runs academic competitions across the world, including
the newly formed International Geography Bee.
79. Mathrubhumi, which has launched its new venture ‘Mathrubhumi Media School’, is the leading
Media group of which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Gujarat
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Karnataka
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Correct Answer: A [Kerala]

Notes:
Mathrubhumi, the leading media group of Kerala, has launched its new venture ‘Mathrubhumi Media
School’ in Kochi on August 8, 2018. The purpose of the school is to promote excellence in the field of
media, and to infuse broad knowledge, integrity and social commitment. It offers several comprehensive
courses for an aspiring journalist, with a distinguished faculty dedicated to training the next generation
of focused journalists in the state -of- the – art facilities the Group has within its media network and at
other media establishments. The year-long programme includes hands-on media exposure, projects and
assignments specially focused on experiential learning through field experience, collaboration with
leading media houses for training and 2 months internship for students. Mathrubhumi, which is a
Malayalam newspaper, was founded in 1922 by K P Kesava Menon, an active volunteer in the Indian
freedom struggle against the British.
80. As per which act, the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the transfer of surplus
amounting to Rs 500 billion to the Union Government for FY18?
[A] Banking Regulation Act, 1949
[B] RBI Act, 1934
[C] Banking Regulation Act, 1989
[D] All of the above ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: B [RBI Act, 1934]

Notes:
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the transfer of surplus amounting to Rs 500 billion (Rs
50,000 crore) to the Government of India (GoI) for FY18. The decision was taken at its Central Board of
Directors meeting on August 8, 2018. The RBI follows July-June accounting year. In the Union Budget
for 2018-19, the government had budgeted Rs 54,817 crore to come from the payment of dividend or
surplus from the RBI, nationalized banks and financial institutions. Thus, the surplus transfer should
come as a huge relief to the Centre which would otherwise have been forced to look at other means of
revenue to bridge the gap. Under the RBI Act, 1934, the central bank is required to pay the government
its surplus after making provisions for bad and doubtful debts, depreciation in assets and, contribution
to staff and superannuation fund among others.
81. Who has been appointed the new Chairman of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI)?
[A] Ram Sewak Sharma
[B] Vikram Limaye
[C] Rajan Mathews
[D] D. Shivalingaiah
Correct Answer: A [Ram Sewak Sharma]
Notes:
Dr. Ram Sewak Sharma has been reappointed the Chairman of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India
(TRAI) till 30th September 2020. He was in July 2015 named as the TRAI chief for a three-year period.
Recently, he triggered a debate around safety of Aadhaar by tweeting his Aadhaar number and
challenging Twitter users to cause any harm from the knowledge of the number. TRAI is a statutory
body set up by the Government of India (GoI) under section 3 of the TRAI Act, 1997. Its headquarters is
located in New Delhi.
82. Which state is hosting the ‘One District One Product’ Summit 2018?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Kerala
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: C [Uttar Pradesh]
Notes:
The President of India, Ram Nath Kovind inaugurated the ‘One District One Product (ODOP)’ Summit in
Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh on August 10, 2018. The summit has been organised by the Uttar Pradesh
government to promote traditional industries and spur local trade. During the summit, with a tagline of
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‘Nayi Udaan, Nayi Pehchan’, the President distributed loan sanction papers to some artisans. The
summit is stated to be the first of its kind in the country and is expected to give a big boost to the MSME
and handicraft in the state. Uttar Pradesh is uniquely famous for product-specific traditional industrial
hubs across 75 districts, including Varanasi (Banarasi silk sari), Bhadohi (carpet), Lucknow (chikan),
Kanpur (leather goods), Agra (leather footwear), Aligarh (locks), Moradabad (brassware), Meerut (sports
goods) and Saharanpur (wooden products).
83. What is the theme of the 2018 International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples?
[A] Indigenous Peoples’ migration and movement
[B] Indigenous Peoples’ Right to Education
[C] Indigenous Peoples’ Right to Health
[D] Ensuring indigenous peoples’ health and well-being
Correct Answer: A [Indigenous Peoples’ migration and movement]
Notes:
The International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples is observed every year on August 9 in
recognition of the first meeting of the United Nations Working Group on Indigenous Populations in
Geneva in 1982. On this day, people from around the world are encouraged to spread the UN’s message
on the protection and promotion of the rights of indigenous peoples. The 2018 theme “Indigenous
peoples’ migration and movement” focus on the current situation of indigenous territories, the root
causes of migration, trans-border movement and displacement, with a specific focus on indigenous
peoples living in urban areas and across international borders.

84. Which of the following has become the first Defence PSU to be activated on the TReDS
platform?
[A] Bharat Dynamics
[B] Dredging Corporation of India
[C] Central Electronics Limited
[D] Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers
Correct Answer: D [Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers]
Notes:
The Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers Ltd (GRSE) has become the first defence Public Sector
Units (PSU) to be activated on the TReDS (Trade Receivable Discounting System) platform. The platform
enables discounting of invoices of MSME sellers against large buyers through an auction mechanism,
helping prompt realisation of trade receivables at competitive market rates and helps avoid the
constraints in obtaining financing. The platform hosts 15 financers including Allahabad Bank, Bank of
Baroda (BoB), Union Bank of India (UBI) and Vijaya Bank.
85. Who will be India’s flag-bearer in the opening ceremony of the 2018 Asian Games?
[A] Hima Das
[B] Neeraj Chopra
[C] Manika Batra
[D] M. R. Poovamma
Correct Answer: B [Neeraj Chopra]
Notes:
Javelin thrower star Neeraj Chopra from Haryana will be India’s flag bearer in the opening ceremony of
the 2018 Asian Games in Jakarta, Indonesia. He will lead India’s contingent in the multi-sport event. So
far, Chopra won gold in 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games (CWG), 2017 Asian Athletic
championships, 2016 South Asian Games and the 2016 World Junior Championships. He also holds the
for U-20 world record with a throw of 86.48m. He is currently coached by Uwe Hohn, a retired German
track and field athlete.
86. Who has been appointed the new chairperson of the National Commission for Women (NCW)?
[A] Lalitha Kumaramangalam
[B] Jayanti Patnaik
[C] Alphons Kannanthanam
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[D] Rekha Sharma

Correct Answer: D [Rekha Sharma]
Notes:
NCW member Rekha Sharma from Haryana has been appointed the new chairperson of the National
Commission for Women (NCW). She was recently embroiled in a controversy after she recommended
abolishing the practice of “confessions” in churches as it can lead to blackmailing of women, after such a
case came to light in Kerala. The NCW is a statutory body of the Government of India (GoI), which
represent the rights of women in India and to provide a voice for their issues and concerns.
87. R Madhavan has been appointed the new CMD of the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
Where is the headquarters of HAL?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Bengaluru
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Shimla
Correct Answer: B [Bengaluru]
Notes:
R Madhavan has been appointed chairman and
ramkishan managing
gugulotu director
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | of the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
(HAL) for a period of 5 years. He will succeed T Suvarna Raju, who will retire on August 31, 2018.
Currently, he is an executive director of the HAL. The HAL is governed under the management of the
Ministry of Defence and is headquartered at Bengaluru, Karnataka.
88. Mahiedine Mekhissi, who clinched gold at the men’s 3000 metres steeplechase in the 2018
European Athletics Championships, is belong to which country?
[A] Russia
[B] Germany
[C] France
[D] Belgium
Correct Answer: C [France]
Notes:
Mahiedine Mekhissi, a French middle-distance runner of Algerian descent, has clinched gold at the
men’s 3000m steeplechase at the 2018 European Athletics Championships in Berlin, Germany on August
9. He joined an elite band of athletes after he claimed his 5th European title on a scintillating night of
track and field in Berlin on August 9, 2018. Mekhissi, a 3-time Olympic and two-time world medalist, was
imperious as he eased to a fourth victory in the 3000m steeplechase in 8min 31.66sec, having already
won the discipline three times (2010, 2012, 2016) and the 1500m once (2014). With this, he joined the trio
of German Harald Schmid and British pair Roger Black and Mo Farah as the sole athletes to have won 5
outdoor Golds on the continental stage.
89. The 2018 World Biodiesel Day (WBD) is observed on which date?
[A] August 11
[B] August 8
[C] August 10
[D] August 9
Correct Answer: C [August 10]
Notes:
The World Biodiesel Day (WBD) is observed every year on August 10 to create awareness about the
importance of non-fossil fuels as an alternative to conventional fossil fuels and to highlight the various
efforts made by the Government in the biofuel sector. The day also honours the research experiments by
Sir Rudolf Diesel who ran an engine with peanut oil in the year of 1893. In India, the 2018 WBD is
observed by the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas. On this occasion, Prime Minister Narendra Modi
launched “Pro Active and Responsive facilitation by interactive and Virtuous Environment Single
window Hub” (PARIVESH) at WBD Programme at Vigyan Bhawan in New Delhi. He also released book
on National Biofuel Policy 2018. The Biofuels policy has the objective of reaching 20% ethanol-blending
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and 5% biodiesel-blending by the year 2030.

90. Recently, Justice Gita Mittal has been sworn in as the Chief Justice of which of the following
High Courts?
[A] Punjab & Haryana
[B] Jammu & Kashmir
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: B [Jammu & Kashmir ]
Notes:
Justice Gita Mittal has been sworn in as the Chief Justice of the Jammu and Kashmir High Court. She
was administered the oath of office by Governor N.N. Vohra. She is the first woman Chief Justice of
Jammu & Kashmir High Court.
91. What is the current number of India’s Biosphere reserves included in the World Network of
Biosphere Reserves?
[A] 8
[B] 9 ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[C] 10
[D] 11
Correct Answer: D [11]
Notes:
On August 10, 2018, the Khangchendzonga Biosphere Reserve (KBR) of Sikkim has been included in the
UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserve (WHBR). With this, number of biosphere reserves from
the country included in World Network of Biosphere Reserves has increased to 11. KBR is the highest
biosphere reserve in the country that includes the third highest mountain peak in the world,
Kanchenjunga (8,586 m).
92. Who has been voted the most influential woman in history as per the recent Readers of BBC
History magazine poll?
[A] Florence Nightingale
[B] Marie Curie
[C] Mother Teresa
[D] Marilyn Monroe
Correct Answer: B [Marie Curie]
Notes:
Nobel prize winning scientist Marie Curie was the most influential woman in this poll. The magazine
ranked Polish born Curie at the top of a list of 100 women who changed the world, for her role in
treating cancer.
93. The ‘Tatkal sewa’ for property registration is a proposed initiative of which state government?
[A] Punjab
[B] Uttar Pradesh
[C] Maharashtra
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: A [Punjab]
Notes:
The Punjab Government will start ‘Tatkal Sewa’ for property registration across the state from 13th
August 2018. The state government has fixed the sum of Rs 5,000 as facilitation charges to seek
appointment for ‘tatkal’ (instant) registration for properties. Beside this, an hour-long slot from 9 am to
10 am has been reserved for availing the service under instant mode. People could seek an appointment
by visiting the website “www.revenue.punjab.gov.in”. So far, over 1.62 lakh online documents have been
registered under the new system. This service comes on the heels of the State starting on line property
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registration in June 2018.

94. Which Indian author has won the 2018 Hindu Playwright Award 2018?
[A] Keval Arora
[B] Sneh Sapru
[C] Swetanshu Bora
[D] Annie Zaidi
Correct Answer: D [Annie Zaidi]
Notes:
Annie Zaidi, an Indian author, has won the 2018 Hindu Playwright Award 2018 for her play ‘Untitled’ at
the 14th edition of The Hindu Theatre Fest at the Taj Coromandel. The award was presented by Ratna
Pathak Shah, actor and director. The award, instituted in 2008, carries a prize of Rs 2 lakh for the best
original, unpublished and unperformed play script in English.
95. Recently, the first electronics manufacturing cluster in the northeastern region under the
Indian Government’s ‘Digital North East Vision 2022’ was inauguarted in which city?
[A] Agartala
[B] Dispur
[C] Guwahati
[D] Kohima
Correct Answer: C [Guwahati]
Notes:
The document ‘Digital North East Vision 2022’ has been released by Union Minister for Electronics &
Information Technology Ravi Shankar Prasad in Guwahati, Assam. Under this vision, the Union
government will invest nearly Rs. 10,000 crore in the region over the next 4 years to implement more
than 400 projects. The vision document has identified a total of 8 thrust areas to enhance connectivity,
including telecom infrastructure, electronics manufacturing units, BPOs and cyber security, besides
promotion of digital innovations. The state-wise roadmaps for implementing digital initiatives in the
North East States have also been developed. Through these, the Vision Document aims to empower the
people of the North Eastern region. As part of the initiative, Mr. Prasad also inaugurated the first
electronics manufacturing cluster in the northeastern region in Guwahati on 10th August 2018.
96. India’s first all-woman Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team for anti-terrorist operations
has been inducted in which state / UT police ?
[A] Karnataka Police
[B] Delhi Police
[C] Kerala Police
[D] Assam Police
Correct Answer: B [Delhi Police]
Notes:
India’s first all-woman Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team for anti-terrorist operations has been
inducted in Delhi Police. The 36 elite women commandos, hailing from north-eastern states, have
undergone rigorous training of around 15 months from specialists all across India and abroad to handle
urban situations as well as jungle operations. Their expertise includes unarmed combat, ambush and
counter-ambush and urban operations like building interventions, vehicle intervention and VVIP
security. They will be deployed at Red Fort and India Gate during the 2018 Independence Day
celebrations. The SWAT team is the brainchild of Amulya Patnaik, the Delhi Police Commissioner.
97. Which of the following has become the India’s first bank to introduce iris authentication for
Aadhaar-based transactions through micro ATMs?
[A] ICICI Bank
[B] Punjab National Bank
[C] Axis Bank
[D] State Bank of India
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Correct Answer: C [Axis Bank]

Notes:
Axis Bank has become the India’s first bank to introduce Iris Scan Authentication feature for Aadhaar-
based transactions through its micro ATM tablets. As per study conducted by the International Centre
for Biometric Research (ICBR), Iris scan technology is completely contactless and provides up to 98.2%
authentication success rate and offers an edge over other prevalent biometric modes. The highly secure
iris powered micro ATM tablets are Standardisation Testing and Quality Certification (STQC) certified
and UIDAI compliant registered devices with completely integrated iris sensors. The process of
transaction through iris scan is very simple. Customer need to select the desired service (funds transfer,
cash withdrawal) and feed-in their Aadhaar numbers in the micro ATM. Next, they will have to choose
‘IRIS’ as the desired mode of authentication. Verification will be done by scanning the eyes of the
customers through the tablet’s iris sensor camera in 3-5 seconds. The transaction will be completed
after the biometric details are verified from the UIDAI database.
98. What is the theme of the 2018 International Youth Day (IYD)?
[A] Youth Building Peace
[B] Safe Spaces for Youth
[C] Change Your World
[D] Eradicate Negativity
Correct Answer: B [Safe Spaces for Youth]
Notes:
The International Youth Day (IYD) is celebrated every year on August 12 to recognize the efforts of the
world’s youth in enhancing global society. The day is the brainchild of the United Nations to draw
attention to a given set of cultural and legal issues surrounding the youth of today. The 2018 theme is
“Safe Spaces for Youth”. The UN has taken this initiative to drive attention towards youth development
and protection and the areas that include education, employment, environment, HIV/AIDS, girls and
young women, and intergenerational relations.
99. Which of the following is not a work of late VS Naipaul, the Trinidad-born Indian origin Nobel
prize wining author who passed away recently?
[A] A Bend in the River
[B] Magic Seeds
[C] A House for Mr Biswas
[D] The Remains of the Day
Correct Answer: D [The Remains of the Day]
Notes:
Sir Vidiadhar Surajprasad Naipaul (85), the Trinidad-born Indian origin author, has passed away in
London, England on August 12, 2018. He was known for his critical commentary on colonialism, idealism,
religion and politics. Born in 1932 in Trinidad into an Indian Hindu family, he wrote more than 30 books
of fiction and non-fiction including ‘A Bend in the River’, ‘A House for Mr Biswas’, The Writer and the
World, Magic Seeds, etc. He won the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2001 for having united perceptive
narrative and incorruptible scrutiny in works that compel us to see the presence of suppressed histories.
100. What is the theme of the 9th edition of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit-2019?
[A] Towards a New India of the future
[B] Laying the foundations for New India
[C] Boost India in the World
[D] Shaping of a New India
Correct Answer: D [Shaping of a New India]
Notes:
The 9th edition of Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit-2019 is scheduled to be held between January 18 and
20 in Gandhinagar with theme `Shaping of a New India’. The `Youth Connect Forums’ at the summit
will facilitate interactions between young achievers, successful businessmen and traders and the youth.
There would be discussions on success of sectors like pharma, diamond, manufacturing and SEZ in the
state.
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101. In which three southern states, Wipro has launched Santoor women’s scholarship for higher
education to girls from economically weaker families?
[A] Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Andhra Pradesh
[B] Kerala, Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka
[C] Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka
[D] Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana
Correct Answer: D [Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Telangana]
Notes:
The Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting will offer 3-year Santoor women’s scholarship for higher
education to girls from economically weaker families in the three southern states of Karnataka, Andhra
Pradesh and Telangana. Approx 900 girls from the 3 states will be given Santoor scholarship, with Rs
24,000 for each of them per annum to do under-graduation.. The students can apply for the scholarship
on “www.santoorscholarships.com” till September 15 or in state-run colleges across the three states. The
scholarship is an attempt to empower women to change their life and the world. Enrollment ratio of
women pursuing higher education in the country is low and many give up higher study due to lack of
financial support. Santoor is the leading brand name of Wipro’s toilet soap.
102. Which Indian authority has launched the RUCO initiative recently?
[A] Food Safety and Standards Authority of India
[B] National Disaster Management Authority

[C] Telecom Regulatory Authority of India
[D] Narcotics Control Bureau
Correct Answer: A [Food Safety and Standards Authority of India]
Notes:
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) launched an initiative “RUCO (Repurpose Used
Cooking Oil)” that will enable collection and conversion of used cooking oil to biodiesel. Under this
initiative, 64 companies at 101 locations have been identified to enable collection of used cooking oil.
According to FSSAI regulations, the maximum permissible limits for Total Polar Compounds (TPC) have
been set at 25%, beyond which the cooking oil is unsafe for consumption. Beside this, FSSAI is also
working in partnership with Biodiesel Association of India and the food industry to ensure effective
compliance of used cooking oil regulations.
103. Justice Manjula Chellur, who has been appointed as new chairperson of Appellate Tribunal for
Electricity was previously chief justice of which high court?
[A] Jammu & Kashmir High Court
[B] Punjab & Haryana High Court
[C] Bombay High Court
[D] Gujarat High Court
Correct Answer: C [Bombay High Court ]
Notes:
Justice Manjula Chellur has been appointed the new chairperson of Appellate Tribunal for Electricity
(ATE), which is under the jurisdiction of Ministry of Power. Prior to this, she was Chief Justice of
Bombay High Court. The tribunal has been established by Central Government for those who are not
satisfied with the Central Electricity Regulatory Commission (CERC) order or with a state. It has the
authority to overrule or amend that order, just like the Income-Tax tribunal or the Central
Administrative Tribunal. Justice Chellur was the first woman Chief Justice of Calcutta High Court. She
also served as the Chief Justice of Kerala High Court and the first female judge of the Karnataka High
Court.
104. India’s first genetic bank for wildlife conservation has been inaugurated in which city?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Kolkata
[C] Hyderabad
[D] Chennai
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Correct Answer: C [Hyderabad]

Notes:
In Hyderabad, India’s first genetic bank for wildlife conservation has been inaugurated by Union
Minister for Science and Technology Dr. Harsh Vardhan at the Laboratory for Conservation of
Endangered Species (LaCONES) in CSIR-Centre for Cellular and Molecular Biology (CCMB) to protect
India’s biodiversity and environment. It is dubbed as National Wildlife Genetic Resource Bank (NWGRB),
which can store 17,000 vials worth of samples. Currently genetic material, including DNA, cells and
tissues besides semen and eggs of 23 wildlife species are stored. This facility would also facilitate
exchange of genetic material between Indian zoos for maintaining genetic diversity and conservation
management made accessible to scientists and wildlife managers for implementing conservation
programmes. The Genetic Resource Bank (GRB) is the systematic collection and preservation of tissues,
sperm, eggs and embryos, genetic material (DNA/RNA).
105. On which date, the 2018 World Elephant Day (WED) was observed recently?
[A] August 13
[B] August 14
[C] August 12
[D] August 15
Correct Answer: C [August 12] ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Notes:
The World Elephant Day (WED) is observed every year on August 12 to bring the world together to help
protect & honour these gentle giants and to spread awareness about the critical threats they are facing.
The day is also observed to bring attention to the urgent plight of Asian and African elephants and to
share knowledge & positive solutions for the better care and management of captive and wild elephants.
It’s also India’s National Heritage Animal. On the occasion of 2018 WED, the festival Gaj Mahotsav has
started in Delhi to showcase 101 elephant installations, photographs by artists and performances by
Delhi-based rock bank Euphoria. The event is organised by Wildlife Trust of India (WTI) and the Ministry
of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
106. Which city hosted the Nepal-India Literature Festival 2018?
[A] Bharatpur
[B] New Delhi
[C] Kathmandu
[D] Birgunj
Correct Answer: D [Birgunj]
Notes:
The Nepal-India Literature Festival 2018 was held in Birgunj, Nepal on August 12 to strengthen Indo-
Nepal ties. On this occasion, the renowned writers from both the countries were also felicitated. Approx
250 participants from India and Nepal attended the two day festival. The event was organized by Nepal
India Co-operation Forum.
107. Who has been officially appointed new UN High Commissioner for Human Rights?
[A] Dina Kawar
[B] Mary Robinson
[C] Ricardo Lagos
[D] Michelle Bachelet
Correct Answer: D [Michelle Bachelet]
Notes:
Michelle Bachelet, the former two-time President of Chile, has been officially appointed new UN High
Commissioner for Human Rights for a period of 4 years. She will succeed Jordanian diplomat Zeid Ra’ad
al-Hussein in September 2018. The High Commissioner is the principle official who speaks out for
human rights across the whole UN system. It strengthens human rights mechanisms, enhance equality
& fight discrimination in all its forms. It also strengthens accountability & the rule of law and widens the
democratic space & protecting the most vulnerable from all forms of human rights abuse.
108. Which rescue operation has been launched by Indian Army in the flood-hit areas of Kerala?
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[A] Operation Madad

[B] Operation Sahyog
[C] Operation Surya Hope
[D] Operation Surya Hope
Correct Answer: B [Operation Sahyog]
Notes:
The Indian Army has launched the major rescue and relief operation “Operation Sahyog” at Kannur,
Kozhikode, Wayanad and Idukki after incessant rain and landslides hit various northern districts of
Kerala. The army constructed temporary bridges for the evacuations of the stranded people from the
isolated villages. Apart from the Army, the Southern Naval Command of Indian Navy has also launched
‘Operation Madad’ to assist the state administration and undertake disaster relief operations due to
unprecedented flooding in many parts of Kerala following incessant rainfall and release of excess water
from Idukki and other dams. Naval helicopters are also deployed for ferrying divers, power tools, axes
and relief material to the flooded areas to augment ongoing relief operations.
109. Which space agency has successfully launched the Parker Solar Probe mission to touch the
Sun?
[A] Roscosmos
[B] NASA ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[C] ISRO
[D] JAXA
Correct Answer: B [NASA]
Notes:
On August 12, the US space agency NASA has successfully launched the Parker Solar Probe mission to
send a satellite closer to the Sun than any before. The rocket carrying the Parker Solar Probe lifted off
from Space Launch Complex 37 at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Florida in the US. It is the world’s
first mission to touch the Sun that will unlock the mysteries of star’s fiery outer atmosphere and its
effects on space weather during the 7-year long journey. The car-sized spacecraft will travel directly into
the Sun’s atmosphere, about four million miles from its surface and more than 7 times closer than any
spacecraft has come before. The US $1.5 billion mission will perform the closest-ever observations of a
star when it travels through the Sun’s outer atmosphere, called the corona. It is the first space craft to be
named after a living person – astrophysicist Eugene Parker (91), who first described solar wind in 1958.
110. What was the tenure of Somnath Chatterjee, who passed away recently, as Lok Sabha
Speaker?
[A] 2004-2009
[B] 2005-2010
[C] 2000-2005
[D] 2002-2006
Correct Answer: A [2004-2009]
Notes:
Somnath Chatterjee (89), the former Lok Sabha Speaker & veteran leader, has passed away in Kolkata,
West Bengal on August 13, 2018. Mr. Chatterjee was the Speaker in the first five-year term (2004-2009)
of the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government and was elected to the Parliament’s Lower House
ten times since 1971. He joined Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M) in 1968 and was a member till
his expulsion in 2008. He was expelled from CPI-M in July 2008 for refusing to resign as Speaker after
CPI-M withdrew support from the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) government. After that, he was
independent in the last decade of his life.
111. Who has become the youngest Indian golfer to claim Asian Tour title at the 2018 Take
Solutions Masters?
[A] Om Prakash Chouhan
[B] Viraj Madappa
[C] Shubhankar Sharma
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[D] SSP Chawrasia

Correct Answer: B [Viraj Madappa]
Notes:
Viraj Madappa (20) from Kolkata has become the youngest Indian golfer to claim the Asian Tour title
after lifting the 2018 TAKE Solutions Masters trophy in Bengaluru on August 12. Beside this, Madappa
has also become the first rookie and youngest player to win on Tour this season. He takes home a
winner’s prize purse of US$63,000 and earned a one-year winner exemption on the region’s premier
Tour. The earlier record was held by Gaganjeet Bhullar, who won the Indonesia Invitational, when he
was 21 years and three months, while Shubhankar Sharma won Joburg Open when he was 21 years and
five months old.
112. Who has been sworn-in as the Chief Justice of the Madras High Court (MHC)?
[A] Aniruddha Bose
[B] Mukesh R Shah
[C] R Rajagopal
[D] Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani
Correct Answer: D [Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani]
Notes:
Justice Vijaya Kamlesh Tahilramani has been sworn-in as the new Chief Justice of the Madras High
Court (MHC) by Tamil Nadu Governor Banwarilal Purohit at a ceremony in Raj Bhavan in Chennai on
August 12. Justice Tahilramani is the third woman chief justice of the MHC. She succeeded Justice Indira
Banerjee, who has been elevated to the Supreme Court. Apart from this, Justice Mukesh R Shah and
Justice Aniruddha Bose have been sworn in as the Chief Justice of Patna High Court and Jharkhand
High Court, respectively.
113. On which date, the 2018 World Organ Donation Day (WODD) has been observed recently?
[A] August 11
[B] August 13
[C] August 14
[D] August 12
Correct Answer: B [August 13]
Notes:
The World Organ Donation Day (WODD) is observed every year on August 13 to encourage people to
donate their precious organs. Every year, about 5 lakh people die awaiting organ transplants due to non-
availability of organs. There is a wide gap between the number of transplants awaited and the organs
available. Organ donation is a process where an organ is transferred from the body of the one who is
giving the organ (donor) to the one who needs the organ (recipient). The donor can be living or deceased.
Organs that can be donated are kidney, lungs, heart, eye, liver, pancreas, cornea, small intestine, skin
tissues, bone tissues, heart valves and veins.
114. Who has been appointed CEO of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)?
[A] Rajlakshmi Nirmal
[B] Sunil Jain
[C] Ashish Kumar Bhutani
[D] Nitin Sharma
Correct Answer: C [Ashish Kumar Bhutani]
Notes:
Ashish Kumar Bhutani, a 1992 batch IAS officer of Assam-Meghalaya cadre, has been appointed Chief
Executive Officer (CEO) of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) till May 9, 2020. The PMFBY is
the government sponsored crop insurance scheme that integrates multiple stakeholders on a single
platform. It was launched by Prime Narendra Modi on 18th February 2016 in line with ‘One Nation – One
Scheme’ theme. It envisages a uniform premium of only 2% to be paid by farmers for Kharif crops, and
1.5% for Rabi crops. The premium for annual commercial and horticultural crops will be 5%. The purpose
of PMFBY is to provide insurance coverage and financial support to the farmers in the event of failure of
any of the notified crop as a result of natural calamities, pests & diseases. It also aims to encourage
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farmers to adopt innovative and modern agricultural practices and to stabilize the income of farmers to
ensure their continuance in farming.
115. Prasar Bharati has tied up with which technological giant to telecast 2018 Independence Day
programme live online?
[A] Facebook
[B] Google
[C] Twitter
[D] Instagram
Correct Answer: B [Google]
Notes:
Prasar Bharati has tied up with Google and its video sharing platform YouTube to telecast the 72nd
Independence Day programme live online on 15th August 2018 to increase digital presence. Prasar
Bharati CEO Shashi Shekhar Vempati has stated that the live stream window will be seen on the
homepage of Google itself so that people do not have to look for a separate link to go to the Youtube
channel. In a first-of-its-kind digital drive, Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s speech from Red Fort will be
live streamed on both Google and YouTube. This year, Doordarshan anchors will introduce the
programme from Red Fort instead of the studios. Doordarshan will also translate the PM’s speech in
over 20 regional languages. The Independence Day coverage will open with a song composed by Shankar
Mahadevan. This service was first used by Google to telecast the inauguration ceremony of US President
Donald Trump in January 2017.
116. Hakam Singh Bhattal, who passed away recently, had won gold for India during which Asian
Games?
[A] 1974
[B] 1982
[C] 1986
[D] 1978
Correct Answer: D [1978]
Notes:
Hakam Singh Bhattal (64), the Asian Games gold medallist athlete & Dhyan Chand awardee, has passed
away in Sangrur, Punjab on August 14, 2018. He won gold at the 1978 Bangkok Asiad in 20km race walk.
In it, India ranked 6th with 11 gold medals. He also won gold in the Asian Track and Field Meeting held at
Tokyo in 1979. He had also served as Havaldar in the 6 Sikh regiment.
117. Which city has been ranked first in the Ease of Living Index 2018, which is released by
Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs?
[A] Pune
[B] Triputi
[C] Chandigarh
[D] Vijaywada
Correct Answer: A [Pune ]
Notes:
The Ease of Living Index 2018 has been launched by Hardeep Singh Puri, the Union Minister of State
(Independent Charge) for Housing & Urban Affairs, in New Delhi on August 13. In it, Pune has been
ranked first, followed by Navi Mumbai, Greater Mumbai, Triputi, Chandigarh, Thane, Raipur, Indore,
Vijaywada and Bhopal. The survey was conducted on 111 cities in the country. The Index is based on four
parameters — governance, social institutions, economic and physical infrastructure. Chennai has been
ranked 14 and New Delhi 65. The Ease of Living Index is a government initiative to assess cities’
‘liveability’ with regards to global and national benchmarks and encourage them towards urban
planning and management.
118. Which of the following has become the India’s first tribal language to get a Wikipedia edition
in its native script?
[A] Maithili
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[B] Santhali
[C] Bodo
[D] Dogri
Correct Answer: B [Santhali]
Notes:
Santhali has become the first Indian tribal language to get a Wikipedia edition in its native script. It is a
language in the Munda subfamily of Austroasiatic languages & presently has content of about 70,000
words. The Santhali Wikipedia edition received approval from the Wikimedia Foundation’s Language
Committee on June 28, 2018 and finally, the Santali Wikipedia site was launched on 2nd August 2018.
According to the 2001 census, Santhali is written in Ol Chiki script & is spoken by 6.4 million people in
India only. Its speakers live mostly in Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha and Assam. The language is also
spoken in Bangladesh, Bhutan and Nepal. As per the Eighth Schedule to the Constitution of India, Santali
is a recognized regional language of India. Wikipedia is available in nearly 300 languages globally as of
August 2018.
119. Who has clinched the 2018 men’s singles Rogers Cup tennis tournament?
[A] Novak Djokovic
[B] Stefanos Tsitsipas
[C] Roger Federer ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[D] Rafael Nadal

Correct Answer: D [Rafael Nadal]
Notes:
Rafael Nadal, a Spanish professional tennis player, has clinched the 2018 men’s singles Rogers Cup tennis
tournament at the Aviva Centre in Toronto, Canada. In the final, he defeated Greek teenager Stefanos
Tsitsipas by 6–2, 7–6 to win his 4th Rogers Cup title. With this win, the 17-time Grand Slam champion
Nadal clinched his 80th ATP World Tour title and fifth victory of the year.
120. Which of the following has been declared the cleanest railway station in the A1 category, as
per 2018 cleanliness survey for Indian Railways?
[A] Jaipur
[B] Tirupati
[C] Jodhpur
[D] Warangal
Correct Answer: C [Jodhpur ]
Notes:
The 2018 cleanliness survey for Indian Railways has been conducted by the Quality Council of India
(QCI) i.e. announced by Railway Minister Piyush Goyal in New Delhi on August 13. Among the A-1
category stations, Jodhpur has been declared the cleanest railway station in the A1 category, followed by
Jaipur and Tirupati (Andhra Pradesh). In A category stations, Marwar (Rajasthan) has been placed at first
position, followed by Phulera (Rajasthan) and Warangal (Telangana). The North Western Railway (NWR),
which is headquartered at Jaipur , topped the list in the cleanest zone category, followed by South
Central Railway (SCR) and East Coast Railway (ECR). This is the 3rd report of Third Party Audit-cum-
Survey of ranking of cleanliness, which covers 407 stations which includes 75 stations in A1 and 332
stations in A category stations. It is an attempt of Indian Railways to increase cleanliness levels and
improve hygiene standards by identifying the laggards.
121. Balramji Das Tandon, who passed away recently, was the current Governor of which state?
[A] Assam
[B] Karnataka
[C] Chhattisgarh
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: C [Chhattisgarh]
Notes:
Balramji Das Tandon (91), the present Governor of Chhattisgarh, has passed away in Raipur on August
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14, 2018. Born on 1st November 1927, he started his political career as corporator of Amritsar Municipal
corporation in 1953. Tandon was one of the founder members of the Jansangh which later became the
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). During his long political career, he has served on various posts, including
as deputy chief minister of Punjab. A six-time MLA, Mr. Tandon was also the Punjab State BJP president
for two years. He was also jailed in 1975 during the Emergency for 19 months.
122. Which Bollywood personality has become the brand ambassador for Government of India
(GoI)’s road safety awareness campaign?
[A] Amitabh Bachchan
[B] Anushka Sharma
[C] Deepika Padukone
[D] Akshay Kumar
Correct Answer: D [Akshay Kumar]
Notes:
On August 14, Film Actor Akshay Kumar has been appointed the brand ambassador for Government of
India (GoI)’s special road safety awareness campaign. As part of the campaign “Sadak Suraksha – Jeevan
Raksha”, three short films starring Akshay as traffic police inspector has been released to generate
public awareness towards road safety. In it, he highlighted the importance of not breaking traffic rules.
It is a matter of serious concern that India accounts for 5 lakh accidents annually, the highest in the
world, in which 1.5 lakh people lose their lives every year.
123. NITI Aayog has launched which mobility pitch competition for budding startups in the
mobility field?
[A] Pitch to Mob
[B] Pitch to Move
[C] Pitch to Start
[D] Pitch to Gear
Correct Answer: B [Pitch to Move]
Notes:
NITI Aayog has launched a mobility pitch competition “Pitch to MOVE” for budding startups in the
mobility field. The competition aims to identify and reward the start-ups offering innovative solutions
for shared, connected and environment friendly mobility. It will provide budding entrepreneurs of India
a unique opportunity to pitch their business ideas to a distinguished jury. The winners of the event will
be felicitated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi during the Global Mobility Summit 2018, which is
scheduled to be held on September in New Delhi. ‘Pitch to MOVE’ is organised by NITI Aayog in
collaboration with Invest India and Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) as a part of a
series of engaging featured events in the run up to the main event.
124. Who has been appointed India’s new ambassador to Russia?
[A] Partha Satpathy
[B] Swetanshu Bora
[C] Pankaj Saran
[D] D Bala Venkatesh Varma
Correct Answer: D [D Bala Venkatesh Varma]
Notes:
D Bala Venkatesh Varma, a 1988 batch Indian Foreign Service officer, has been appointed India’s new
ambassador to Russia, which is considered a high-profile posting due to expanse of strategic cooperation
between the two countries. Currently, he is serving as Indian envoy in Spain. He will succeed Pankaj
Saran, who has been appointed deputy National Security Advisor (NSA). The Union Government also
appointed Partha Satpathy as next Ambassador of India to Ukraine.
125. Which Indian personality has been ranked first in the Kotak Wealth Hurun-Leading Wealthy
Women 2018 list?
[A] Smitha V. Crishna
[B] Roshni Nadar
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[C] Indu Jain

[D] Leena Gandhi Tewari
Correct Answer: A [Smitha V. Crishna]
Notes:
Smitha V. Crishna, a third-generation heir of the Godrej family, has been ranked first in the Kotak
Wealth Hurun-Leading Wealthy Women 2018 list with an estimated wealth of Rs 37,570 crore. In 2014,
she made news with the purchase of a bungalow that belonged to Dr. Homi J. Bhabha for Rs 371 crore.
Roshni Nadar, CEO and executive director at HCL, ranked second in the list with an estimated wealth of
Rs 30,200 crore. Indu Jain, the chairperson of the Times Group, ranked third in the list, followed by
Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw, Kiran Nadar, Leena Gandhi Tewari, Sangita Jindal and Jayshree Ulla. Industry
wise, pharmaceuticals leads with 22 women from that sector on the list. It is followed by Software &
Services with 12 individuals, and Food & Beverages with 8 individuals featured in the list.
126. Which Indian sportsperson has won the Community Award in the Junior NBA World
Basketball Championship 2018?
[A] Ajmer Singh
[B] Sunishka Kartik
[C] Satnam Singh Bhamara
[D] Geethu Anna Jose ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: B [Sunishka Kartik]

Notes:
Sunishka Kartik from Bengaluru won the Community Award in the 2018 Junior NBA World Basketball
Championship, which concluded at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex at Walt Disney World
Resort near Orlando, USA, on August 12. She had top-scored with 17 points in the team’s impressive win
over South America Combined in a pool game. The award recognizes players who are committed to give
back to those in need. The tournament featured the best 13 and 14-year-old boys and girls from around
the world in 32 teams.
127. The Postal Highway Project, for which Government of India (GoI) is providing financial
support, is located in which country?
[A] Afghanistan
[B] Myanmar
[C] Nepal
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: C [Nepal]
Notes:
The Government of India (GoI) has released 470 million Nepali rupees grant for Terai roads project in
Nepal. The amount has been released to maintain fund liquidity for the ongoing construction of 14 road
packages under Postal Highway Project. With this payment, 2.35 billion Nepali rupees have been
released so far out of total grant assistance of 8 billion Nepali rupees committed by the Government of
India for implementing 14 packages under Postal Highway Project. Since 1950, the Indian Government
has been supporting infrastructure development of Nepal and has provided financial assistance for
construction of various Highways, Roads, Bridges, Airports, etc. as part of its multi-sectoral and multi-
dimensional India-Nepal Economic Cooperation Programme.
128. Who has been appointed the head coach of the Indian Women’s National Cricket team?
[A] Madan Lal
[B] Gundappa Viswanath
[C] Ramesh Powar
[D] Sanjay Bangar
Correct Answer: C [Ramesh Powar]
Notes:
Ramesh Powar, the former Indian off-spinner, has been appointed the head coach of the Indian Women’s
National Cricket team on an interim basis till 30th November 2018. His term will include the tours to Sri
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Lanka in September, a bilateral series in West Indies in October followed by the 2018 ICC Women’s
World T20 in West Indies in November. This was informed by BCCI secretary Amitabh Choudhary. As
per the Supreme Court directive, only a Cricket Advisory Committee (CAC) – now functional – can
appoint a fulltime coach on a long-term basis. Powar has played 31 ODIs and two Tests from 2004 to
2007, picking 34 wickets with a best of 54 in the 50-over format.
129. Which state government has decided to observe September as the “month of nutrition” to
create awareness among people living in the state?
[A] Assam
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: B [Rajasthan ]
Notes:
The Rajasthan government has decided to observe September as the “month of nutrition” to create
awareness among people living in the state. From September, the students of Class 1 to 8 of government
schools will be given milk daily instead of thrice a week for which additional funds of Rs 203 crore will be
allocated. Besides, students in the age group of 3-6 years, adolescent girls and pregnant women
registered with Anganwadi centres will also be provided milk thrice a week and the government will
allocate Rs 100 crore for this. In the month of nutrition, the awareness in rural as well as urban areas will
be created for nutrition. It must be noted that Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the National
Nutrition Mission (NNM) and Pan India Expansion of Beti Bachao Beti Padhao (BBBP) at a mega event
held at Jhunjhunu in Rajasthan on the occasion 2018 International Women’s Day (IWD).
130. Chemmanam Chacko, who passed away recently, was noted poet of which language?
[A] Malayalam
[B] Tamil
[C] Telugu
[D] Odia
Correct Answer: A [Malayalam ]
Notes:
Chemmanam Chacko (92), the renowned Malayalam poet and Sahitya Akademi awardee, has passed
away in Kochi, Kerala on August 14, 2018. Known for his satirical works, Chacko reacted to the
contemporary socio-political issues of Kerala through his poems. Chacko had won several awards,
including those by the Kerala Sahitya Akademi, Sanjayan Award, Kunjan Nambiar Kavitha puraskaram, P
Smaraka Puraskaram and Mahakavi Ulloor Award. His first published poem titled ‘Pravachanam’ was
naturally inspired by the freedom struggle. His other works include Vilamparam, Kanakaaksharangal,
Nellu, Innu, etc.
131. Which state government has launched the eye care scheme ‘Kanti Velugu’ on the occasion of
72nd Independence Day 2018?
[A] Andhra Pradesh
[B] Karnataka
[C] Telangana
[D] Tamil Nadu
Correct Answer: C [Telangana ]
Notes:
On the occasion of 72nd Independence Day 2018, Telangana Chief Minister K Chandrasekhar Rao
launched three new schemes viz. free life insurance for farmers (Rythu Bima), ‘Kanti Velugu’ eye care
scheme and an economic support programme for backward classes. In the ‘Kanti Velugu’ eye care
scheme, every citizen of Telangana will be entitle to have free eye care viz. free eye screenings, medicines
and spectacles and surgeries. It envisages covering 3.7 crore population. Under the economic support
scheme for backward classes, the government would provide a grant of Rs 50,000 to the beneficiaries to
start small businesses. Under the ‘Rythu Bima’ scheme, every farmer would get life insurance cover of Rs
5 lakh.
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Contents
......................... .. . ....... ....... ...............................................................
Current Affairs News Headlines: August 16 to 31, 2018 ........................................................................................................................................ 3
August 16, 2018 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 13
August 17, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 16
August 18, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 20
August 19, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 24
August 20, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 29
August 21, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 33
August 22, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 37
August 23, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 40
August 24, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 45
August 25, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 48
August 26, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 52
August 27, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 55
August 28, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 60
August 29, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 61
August 30, 2018 ............................................................................................................................................................................................................ 66
August 31, 2018 .............................................................................................................................................................................................................
70
Multiple Choice Questions .......................................................................................................................................................................................... 74
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Current Affairs News Headlines: August 16 to 31, 2018

India
PM addresses the Nation from the ramparts of the Red Fort on 72nd Independence Day
to launch ‘Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Abhiyaan’ healthcare scheme on September 25
Women army officers recruited through Short Service Commission to get opportunity for
permanent commission
President awards the Certificate of Honour and Maharshi Badrayan Vyas Samman for 2018
Over 20 cultural centres at India’s missions across the world will be named after Swami
Vivekananda: ICCR
A 12th century bronze Buddha statue stolen from Nalanda in Bihar six decades ago returned to India
by UK
Renowned Malayalam poet Chemmanam Chacko dies in Kochi at the age of 92
Anandiben Patel takes additional charge as Chattisgarh governor
Economy & Corporate
Smitha V Crishna of the Godrej Group, with wealth worth ₹37,570 crore, is the richest Indian
woman: Kotak Wealth Hurun – Leading Wealthy Women 2018 report
TVS Motor Company launches scooter TVS Dazz and three-wheeler TVS King in the Philippines
market
Tata brand remains India’s most valuable brand this year: Brand Finance
World
Indian Government releases additional NPR 470 million for the Postal Highway being constructed in
Southern Plains of Nepal
24th World Congress of Philosophy being organised in Beijing from August 13 to 17, theme:
‘Learning To Be Human’
Italy: Number people of killed during the collapse of a bridge in Genoa rises to 38
Turkey announces boycott of U.S. electronic goods in retaliation for punitive sanctions by
Washington
US scientists James Allison, Carl June and Steven Rosenberg announced as winners of USD 500,000
Albany Medical Center Prize in Medicine and Biomedical Research
Sports
Two-time Formula One champion Fernando Alonso announces retirement at the end of the ongoing
season
Chess: 14-year old Nihal Sarin becomes 53rd Grandmaster of India
JSW Group launches Inspire Institute of Sport in Vijayanagar (Karnataka)
Current Affairs News Headlines: August 17, 2018
India
Atal Bihari Vajpayee, PM of BJP-led NDA in 1998-2004, dies in New Delhi at 93. Decorated with
Bharat Ratna in 2014, he was elected to Lok Sabha 10 times and Rajya Sabha twice.
Centre tells SC that the creamy layer principle cannot be applied to deny quota to SC/ST employees
in promotion in govt jobs
Simultaneous elections to Lok Sabha & State Assemblies cannot take place unless Constitution is
amended clarifies EC
SC asks Assam NRC coordinator to submit district-wise percentage of excluded people
MP CM launches Dial 100 Mobile app, which will help the needy at the time of emergency
India’s first Humboldt Penguin born in Mumbai Zoo, to be displayed by November
Parsi New Year Navroz to be celebrated on August 17
Economy & Corporate
India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) forecasts 7.2% growth for Indian economy in 2018-19
RBI Governor Urjit Patel launches Unified Payments Interface (UPI) 2.0 developed by NPCI
World
Malian President Ibrahim Boubacar Keita re-elected for a 4-year term after winning 67.17% of the
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vote in a runoff
Ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) of PM Hun Sen wins all 125 seats in Parliament, takes 77% of
the vote in election
US Treasury Dept announces sanctions on Chinese, Russian companies for violating economic
embargo on North Korea
Paraguay: Mario Abdo Benítez sworn in as new President following his victory in elections held in
April
Oscar-winning director Ang Lee among winners of annual Directors Guild of America (DGA)
honours
Singer Aretha Franklin, the legendary Queen of Soul, dies in Detroit at the age of 76
Sports
Ajit Wadekar, captain in India’s first test series wins in England and West Indies in 1971, dies in
Mumbai at 77
France first, India 97th in the recently released FIFA rankings
Hikaru Nakamura of USA wins St. Louis Rapid and Blitz Chess, India’s Viswanathan ends last (10th)
India
Former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee cremated with
ramkishan gugulotu full state honours
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | at Smriti Sthal on the banks of the
Yamuna in Delhi
Economy & Corporate
India’s foreign exchange reserves plunged by $1.82 billion to $400.88 billion for the week ended
August 10
Air fares not exorbitant, change according to market forces: DGCA to Delhi HC
World
11th World Hindi Conference (WHC) being organized in Mauritius on August 18-20 by India’s
Ministry of External Affairs and the Government of Mauritius. . “Hindi World and Indian Culture” is
the theme.
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party chief Imran Khan elected 22nd PM of Pakistan by the country’s
National Assembly
59 Indians scale Everest in 2018; highest among foreign ascenders
US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo announces creation of Iran Action Group (IAG) in a bid to
pressurise Tehran to change its ways
Scarlett Johansson is the highest paid actress in the world with USD 40.5 million in pre-tax earnings
from June 1, 2017, to June 1, 2018: Forbes
Sports
Asia Cup 2018 cricket ODI tournament to be held in Abu Dhabi and Dubai from September 15 to 28
India
Kerala floods: PM Modi announces compensation of Rs 2 lakh for deceased victims’ kin, takes aerial
survey
“Because he is”, a book on lyricist Gulzar, authored by his daughter Meghna Gulzar, released
Delhi govt.’s bureaucrat S. K. Arora awarded WHO World No Tobacco Day 2017 Award for his
extraordinary contribution towards tobacco control
In a major scientific breakthrough, a team of international researchers, including 18 from India
decoded the wheat genome
Economy & Corporate
Aadhaar-issuing body UIDAI announces rollout of face recognition feature as an additional mode of
authentication from September 15
SBI, ICICI Bank waive off fees, charges on banking transactions for flood-hit customers in Kerala
Walmart completes deal to acquire 77 pct stake in Flipkart
World
Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chief Imran Khan takes oath as 22nd PM of Pakistan in Islamabad
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Ghanian Kofi Annan, UN Secretary-General in 1997-2006, dies in Switzerland at 80

Belarus: Andrei Kobyakov replaced by Sergei Rumas as PM by President Alexander Lukashenko
replaces
President of UAE Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan sets up a national emergency committee to
provide relief assistance to people affected by flash floods in Kerala
Sports
Asian Games opening ceremony held in Jakarta, javelin thrower Neeraj Chopra was India’s flag-
bearer
India
Over 6.33 lakh flood-hit people staying in around 3,000 relief camps in Kerala: NDMA
Anti-tank guided missile Helina flight tested from an army helicopter at Pokhran in Rajasthan
Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon (SAAW) flight tested from an IAF aircraft at Chandan range in
Rajasthan
Telangana launches Disaster Response Force (DRF) vehicles in Hyderabad to combat situations like
flash floods
Economy & Corporate
From February 8, 2019, no ATM refilling post 9 pm in cities, 6 pm in rural areas
World
Exercise Pitch Black 2018, hosted by Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), concludes
Indian Army and Royal Thai Army conclude 2-week long ‘Exercise Maitree’ in Thailand
World Humanitarian Day observed on August 19 to recognise efforts of the humanitarian workers
World Photography Day celebrated on August 19
Magnitude 8.2 earthquake strikes in Pacific close to Fiji & Tonga
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj meets Mauritian PM Pravind Kumar Jugnauth in Port
Louis
Asian Games
Bajrang Punia wins gold in Men’s 65 kg freestyle wrestling
Apurvi Chandela and Ravi Kumar win bronze in 10m Air Rifle Mixed Team event
India
Centre declares the devastating floods in Kerala a “calamity of severe nature”
CMs of Northern States decide to set up a common secretariat in Panchkula in Haryana to tackle the
issue of drug menace
Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her Japanese counterpart Itsunori Onodera hold talks in
New Delhi
New pictorial warning for tobacco products issued, to be used from September 1
74th birth anniversary of former Prime Minister (1984-89) Rajiv Gandhi observed
Jharkhand govt. to include life and thoughts of former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee in school curriculum
Economy & Corporate
Telecom subscriber base in India reached 116.8 crore at the end of June: TRAI
Mukesh Ambani’s Reliance Jio ranked as the top company globally on Fortune’s ‘Change The World’
list
World
PepsiCo to buy Israel-based carbonated drink-machine maker SodaStream for $3.2 billion
11th World Hindi Conference concludes in Port Louis, Mauritius
Asian Games
Vinesh Phogat wins gold medal in women’s 50kg Freestyle Wrestling
Deepak Kumar wins silver medal in Men’s 10m Air Rifle
Lakshya Sheoran wins silver medal in Men’s Trap Shooting
Sports
Kiki Bertens of Netherlands beats Romania’s Simona Halep in final to win Women’s Singles title at
Cincinnati tennis
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Novak Djokovic beats Roger Federer in final to win Men’s Singles title at Cincinnati tennis
Autobiography of former cricketer VVS Laxman titled “281 and Beyond” to release in November
Former Australian cricketer Shane Warne to come out with autobiography ‘No Spin’ in October
New Governors
Satya Pal Malik: Jammu & Kashmir
Lalji Tandon: Bihar
Satyadev Narayan Arya: Haryana
Baby Rani Maurya: Uttrakhand
Kaptan Singh Solanki: Tripura
Tathagata Roy: Meghalaya
Ganga Prasad: Sikkim
India
Option of none of the above (NOTA) cannot be permitted in Rajya Sabha elections: Supreme Court
Wei Fenghe, State Councillor and Defence Minister of China, calls on PM Modi in New Delhi
Entrance exams conducted by National Testing Agency: UGC-NET, JEE-Main I & II, CMAT and
GPAT (Graduate Pharmacy Aptitude Test) will be computer-based while NEET-UG will be conducted
in pen-and-paper mode as before ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
UP govt. to name the upcoming 289 km Bundelkhand Expressway as ‘Atal Path’
Chhattisgarh: New capital city of Naya Raipur to be named as Atal Nagar in memory of Vajpayee
Odisha Minister and eminent writer Jadunath Das Mohapatra dies in Bhubaneswar at 91
Economy & Corporate
NITI Aayog and the Centre for Economic Policy Research to organise India Banking Conclave 2018 in
New Delhi on August 23-24
World
United Arab Emirates (UAE) pledges $100 million for relief work in flood-hit Kerala
El Salvador establishes ties with China after severing relations with Taiwan
Iran unveils first domestic fighter jet named ‘Kowsar’
International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism observed on August 21
World Senior Citizen’s Day observed on August 21
World Mosquito Day observed on August 20
Assamese film “Xhoihobote Dhemalite” (Rainbow fields) wins Best Screenplay award at Treasure
Coast International Film Festival in Florida
Chandrayaan-I data confirms presence of ice on Moon: NASA
India At Asian Games
Saurabh Chaudhary wins gold in Men’s 10m Air Pistol, Abhishek Verma wins bronze
Sanjeev Rajput wins silver medal in Men’s 50m Rifle 3 Positions
Divya Kakran wins bronze medal in women’s 68kg freestyle wrestling
India wins bronze medal in Men’s Sepak Takraw
Sports
Former England football captain David Beckham wins 2018 UEFA President’s Award
Jasprit Bumrah and Bhuvneshwar Kumar sign up as brand ambassadors of footwear brand ASICS
BCCI registers its new constitution with the Registrar of Societies of Tamil Nadu in Chennai
India
International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) launches Kerala Heritage Rescue Initiative
UGC directs universities and higher education institutions to ban sale of junk food on their
campuses
Senior Congress leader and former Union Minister Gurudas Kamat dies at 63 in New Delhi
Maharashtra government appoints Raveena Tandon as brand ambassador of Mumbai’s Sanjay
Gandhi National Park
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Economy & Corporate

FSSAI notifies standards for honey & its products to curb adulteration
Flipkart unveils dedicated portal for refurbished goods, names it ‘2gud’
Avanturaa Choppers launches motorcycles Rudra and Pravega priced at Rs 21-24 lakh
Samsung launches Galaxy Note 9 in India with 1 TB internal storage, S Pen priced at Rs 67,900
onwards
Xiaomi launches its new sub-brand POCO in India with “F1” smartphone priced at Rs. 20,999
World
Sri Lanka to resume death penalty after 42-year moratorium
Morocco reintroduces compulsory military service of 12 months for people in 19-25 age group
Mountain Echoes literary festival is being held in Thimphu, Bhutan from August 22 to 25
Asian Games
Japan beat China in final 3-1 to win gold in Women’s Badminton team event
Rahi Sarnobat wins gold for India in women’s 25m air pistol
India win four bronze medals in Wushu from Narender Grewal (Men’s 65kg), Santosh Kumar (Men’s
56 kg), Surya Bhanu Partap Singh (Men’s 60kg) and Roshibina Devi (Women’s 60kg)
Sports
India (329/10, 352d/7) beat England (161/10, 317/10) by 203 runs in 3rd test at Trent Bridge,
Nottingham; Virat Kohli is Man of the Match
India
Gujarat: PM witnesses collective e-Gruhpravesh of beneficiaries of Pradhan Mantri Awaas Yojana;
lays foundation stone of Astole Water Supply Scheme at Jujwa village, Valsad
Ministry of Women and Child Development to celebrate September as Poshan Maah (National
Nutrition Month)
President inaugurates the “International Buddhist Conclave (IBC) 2018” in New Delhi
Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman and her Chinese counterpart Wei Fenghe hold talks in New
Delhi
Veteran journalist, author and diplomat Kuldip Nayar passes away at 95 in New Delhi
Arun Jaitley resumes his duties as Finance and Corporate Affairs Minister after a gap of more than
three months
NITI Aayog launches 5 Thematic Reports on Sustainable Development in Indian Himalayan Region
Rajasthan: CM Vasundhara Raje inaugurates Bhamashah Techno Hub in Jhalana Industrial Area of
Jaipur
Tamil Nadu CM E. Palanisamy launches app and a website on plastic pollution free state, appoints
actor Vivek as brand ambassador for the project
Economy & Corporate
Reliance Industries Ltd. (RIL) becomes first Indian company to cross the Rs 8 lakh crore market
capitalisation mark
National Logistics Portal being developed to ensure ease of trading in international and domestic
markets: Commerce Ministry
TVS launches 110cc bike Radeon
Industry chamber Assocham appoints former bureaucrat Uday Kumar Varma as its new Secretary
General
World
Australia bans Chinese companies Huawei and ZTE from providing 5G technology equipment to its
networks over security concerns
Death toll from the latest outbreak of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) reaches 61
US government declares emergency as Hurricane Lane menaces Hawaii
International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition observed on August 23
Shardul Vihan wins silver in Men’s Double Trap shooting
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Ankita Raina bags bronze in women’s singles tennis

Men’s Kabaddi team wins bronze medal after losing to Iran in semifinal
Sports
Indian women’s team fast bowler Jhulan Goswami announces her retirement from T20 Cricket
Internationals
India
Security clearance to Qatar-based English news channel Al Jazeera withdrawn by Indian
government
Prasar Bharati and Mizzima Media Group of Myanmar signed MoU for cooperation in broadcasting
and content sharing
‘Colonial Syndrome: The Videshi Mind Set in Modern India’, written by Prof. Rama Krishna Rao,
released
Atal Ji Ne Kaha, a book of former PM’s speeches, photographs and interviews compiled by Brijendra
Rehi, launched
Neta App (developed by Flipped), which enables voters to rate their MLAs and MPs, launched on
Google Play Store
Jharkhand government to start prizes in literature,
ramkishan gugulotu media| and good governance after former PM
Atal Bihari Vajpayee

First Humboldt penguin chick born in India on August 15 dies in Mumbai zoo
Economy
India’s foreign exchange reserves at $400.847 billion in the week to August 17
UIDAI makes facial recognition mandatory for every authentication that requires Aadhaar
India’s first inter-state connected wind power project commissioned in Bhuj, Gujarat
Corporate
Airports Authority of India provides space for the opening of Tribes India outlets at various airports
Maruti Suzuki launches ‘Quick Response Team on Bikes’ to provide offer faster on-road assistance to
customers
Samsung launches Galaxy A8 Star in India for Rs 34,990
Chinese brand HOMTOM debuts in India with 3 smartphones in the sub-Rs 10,000 price segment
Parineeti Chopra named brand ambassador of women’s garment brand Rangriti by Biba Apparels
World
India and Pakistan participating in Shanghai Cooperation Organisation’s (SCO) Exercise Peaceful
Mission 2018 being held in Russia from August 2 4 to 29
Death toll from earthquakes that rocked Indonesia’s Lombok Island in July-August cross 550
Alcohol kills 2.8 million worldwide annually: Global Burden of Diseases study published in the Lancet
medical journal
Scott Morrison becomes Australia’s new PM after emerging victorious in a leadership contest for the
Liberal Party
1 magnitude earthquake hits Peru-Brazil border
Rohan Bopanna and Divij Sharan win gold in Men’s Doubles tennis
Prajnesh Gunneswaran wins bronze in Men’s Singles tennis
Sawarn Singh, Dattu Bhoknal, Om Prakash and Sukhmeet Singh win gold in Men’s Quadruple Scull
rowing
Dushyant wins bronze in Lightweight single sculls rowing
Rohit Kumar and Bhagwan Singh win bronze in Lightweight double sculls rowing
Heena Sidhu wins bronze in Women’s 10m air pistol shooting
India win silver in women’s kabaddi after losing to Iran
Sports
Indian Formula One team Force India renamed as Racing Point Force India
Former Indian cricketer Lalchand Rajput appointed full-time head coach of Zimbabwe
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Italian football club AS Roma to auction shirts for Kerala flood relief
India
Naini-Doon Janshatabdi Express connecting Kathgodam to Dehradun in Uttarakhand flagged off by
Railway Minister Piyush Goyal
Scientific Advisor of Defence Minister, Dr G Satheesh Reddy appointed as Secretary, Department of
Defence Research and Development and Chairman of Defence Research Development Organisation
(DRDO)
Arunachal Pradesh government to organise youth conclave titled ATAL (Arunachal Transformation
& Aspirational Leadership) in September
Economy & Corporate
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approves procurement worth Rs. 46,000 crore including 111
utility helicopters, 14 – Vertically Launched Short Range Missile and 150 indigenously developed 155
mm Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems
World
UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres describes Atal Bihari Vajpayee as an exemplary statesman
PepsiCo’s India-born CEO Indra Nooyi chosen for Asia Society’s Game Changer of the Year 2018
award ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Asian Games
India’s Tejinderpal Singh Toor wins gold in Men’s Shot Put in a games record throw of 20.75 m
Indian squash players Dipika Pallikal Karthik, Joshna Chinappa and Saurav Ghosal win bronze
medals in singles
Japan’s Hiroto Inoue wins gold in Men’s Marathon in 2 hours, 18 minutes and 22 seconds
Uzbekistan’s Denis Istomin wins gold in Men’s Singles Tennis
Sports
Venkatesh Shetty wins JK Tyre 29thMonsoon Scooter Rally in Nashik
India
MGR Centenary Film Studio, the tallest such structure in India, inaugurated by TN CM E. K.
Palaniswami near Chennai
Haryana: Hari Chand Middha, INLD (Indian National Lok Dal) MLA from Jind, dies in New Delhi at
76
Noted Malayalam film director K. K. Haridas dies in Kochi at 55
Sanskrit Divas observed on Shravan Purnima — August 26
J&K: Annual Amarnath Yatra concludes on Shravan Purnima
Economy & Corporate
SBI asks customers to get their ATM-cum-debit cards with magnetic stripe replaced with ones
having EMV chip before December 31
World
The Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting of G20 nations held in Salta, Argentina on August 23-24
US Senator and Vietnam war hero John McCain dies at 81
NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft catches its first glimpse of its target Bennu asteroid
OSIRIS-Rex is Origins, Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer
Equestrian: Fouaad Mirza wins silver in individual event, India (Rakesh Kumar, Ashish Malik,
Jitender Singh and Fouaad Mirza) win silver in team event
Athletics: Dutee Chand wins silver medal in women’s 100m, Hima Das wins silver in women’s 400m
and Muhammed Anas wins silver in men’s 400 m
Bridge: India win mixed team and men’s team bronze medals
Sports
Airtel Hyderabad Marathon: Karam Singh wins men’s race, Pascalia Chepkoech wins women’s race
Former India ODI cricketer Gopal Bose dies in London at 71; played one ODI in England in 1974
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India
Government announces regulations for use of drones (Remotely Piloted Aircraft System-RPAS) for
mapping, surveying and photography; puts restrictions on delivery of goods, food
US Consulate in Mumbai awards 26 Indian shipping companies which participated in the US Coast
Guard (USCG)’s Automated Mutual-assistance Vessel Rescue (AMVER) programmes
Meghalaya CM and National People’s Party (NPP) President Conrad K Sangma wins South Tura
assembly by-election
WCD Ministry launches toll-free helpline 14408 launched to address nutrition queries
NITI Aayog suggest setting up of a ‘Himalayan Authority’ for integrated development of hill states
FICCI presents its “Book of the Year” publishing award to Sahitya Akademi for its title “Nagaphani
Van Ka Itihas” (Hindi)
Economy & Corporate
FDI grew by 23% to $12.75 billion during the April-June quarter of 2018-19
NCAER retains India’s growth forecast for 2018-19 at 7.4%
Bonds for development of new Andhra Pradesh capital Amaravati listed on Bombay Stock Exchange
(BSE)
RBI’s six-month time frame for finalising
ramkishan guguloturesolution plans| for around 70 large stressed accounts
worth over Rs 3.8 lakh crore ended on August 26

Committee headed by Corporate Affairs Secretary Injeti Srinivas to review offences under
Companies Act 2013 submits final report to govt.
PSU construction firm NBBC revises contract guidelines; asks contractors to plant more trees on
project sites
SpiceJet operates India’s first test flight partially powered by bio-fuel connecting Dehradun to Delhi
Ducati launches Scrambler 1100 motorcycle priced at Rs 10.91 lakh
World
EAM Sushma Swaraj inaugurates 3rd Indian Ocean Conference in Hanoi, Vietnam
Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman meets Thailand’s PM Prayut Chan-o-cha and Defence
Minister Prawit Wongsuwan in Bangkok
S. playwright Neil Simon, known for ‘The Odd Couple’, ‘The Sunshine Boys’ and ‘Barefoot in the
Park’, dies at 91
Neeraj Chopra wins gold in men’s javelin throw by clearing a distance of 88.06m
India’s Sudha Singh wins silver in women’ 3000m steeplechase in 9:40:03, Bahrain’s Winfred Yavi
wins gold in 9:36:52
India’s Neena Varakil wins silver in women’s long jump at 6.51 m, gold won by Bui Thi Thu Thao of
Vietnam at 6.55 m
India’s Dharun Ayyasamy wins silver in men’s 400m hurdles in 48.96 sec, gold won by Abderrahman
Samba of Qatar in 47.66 sec
India’s Saina Nehwal wins bronze in women’s singles badminton after loss to Tai Tzu Ying of
Chinese Taipei in semifinal
Sports
Ministry of Steel launches a corporate sports policy for government-run steel companies
Sebastian Vettel steers his Ferrari to a convincing victory in Formula One Belgian Grand Prix
Carrom World Cup
Carrom World Cup was held in South Korea
India (Rashmi Kumari, Kajal Kumari and S. Apoorva) beat Sri Lanka in final to women’s team
championship
India (Zaheer Pasha, K. Sagayabharathi and Prashant More) lose to Sri Lanka in final of men’s team
championship
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India
ISRO unveils India’s Gaganyaan programme for manned space flight before 2022
A 21-member Prime Minister’s Science Technology and Innovation Council (PM-STIAC) headed by
Principal Scientific Adviser K. VijayRaghavan set up
Ruchi Ghanashyam appointed as India’s next High Commissioner to the United Kingdom
Praful Bidwai Memorial Award for 2018 conferred upon Ulka Mahajan, one of the three founders of
Sarvahara Jan Andolan
Centre asks States and Union Territories to prohibit manufacture, sale and advertisement of e-
cigarettes and other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems (ENDS)
Punjab Assembly passes bills to make desecration of religious texts punishable with life term
Economy & Corporate
India’s foodgrain production to hit an all-time high of 284.83 million tonnes in the 2017-18 crop year
ending June: Agriculture Ministry’s fourth advance estimates
Computer chip manufacturer NVIDIA becomes NITI Aayog’s Deep Learning technology partner for
‘MoveHack’
Google announces Navlekha project to make online content relevant for more Indian users
Government of India and the World Bank sign $300 Million Agreement to help scale-up India’s
Energy Efficiency Program ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
India, Rajasthan and World Bank sign $250 million loan agreement for improving performance of
state’s electricity distribution sector
India is a partner country at Izmir International Trade Show in Istanbul from September 7: Trade
Promotion Council of India
Royal Enfield launches Classic Signals 350 motorcycle priced at Rs 1.58 lakh
World
Russia to hold Vostok-2018 military exercises from September 11 to 15 with participation of China
and Mongolia
Indian development economist and UN official Satya S. Tripathi appointed as Assistant Secretary-
General and Head of the New York Office of UNEP
India and EU join hands for Rs. 240 crore research programme to develop a next generation
influenza vaccine
Indian peacekeepers in South Sudan lauded for helping improve essential infrastructure
India’s Manjit Singh and Jinson Johnson win gold and silver respectively in men’s 800 m athletics
Indian quartet of Muhammad Anas, M. R. Poovamma, Hima Das and Arokia Rajiv win silver in 400m
mixed relay race, Bahrain won gold
PV Sindhu wins silver in Women’s Singles Badminton after losing to Tai Tzu-Ying of Chinese Taipei
in final 13-21, 16-21
India’s Abhishek Verma, Rajat Chauhan and Aman Saini win silver medal in men’s compound
archery team event, gold won by South Korea
India’s Muskan Kirar, Madhumita Kumari and Jyothi Surekha Vennam win silver medal in women’s
compound archery team event, gold won by South Korea
Indian table tennis men’s team of G. Sathiyan, Achanta Sharath Kamal and A. Amalraj win bronze
medal
Pincky Balhara and Malaprabha Yallappa Jadhav win silver and bronze respectively in Kurash (a
form of wrestling indigenous to central Asia) in the women’s 52kg category
Sports
Cristiano Ronaldo wins UEFA Goal of the Season award for his goal for Real Madrid in the match
against Juventus on April 3
India
HRD Minister Prakash Javadekar announces launch of 3rd edition of “Smart Hackathon”, a national
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competition for students to develop digital solutions for real life problems
Cabinet approves ‘Ocean Services, Technology, Observations, Resources Modelling and Science (O-
SMART)’ scheme for ocean research
Assam govt. extends application of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) in the state for
6 more months
Arunachal Pradesh Assembly passes bill for creation of 3 new districts – Pakke-Kesang, Lepa Rada
and Shi Yomi
Actor-politician Nandamuri Harikrishna, son of AP’s ex-CM N. T. Ramarao, dies in car accident in
Nalgonda (Telangana) at 62
Economy & Corporate
3% of the Rs 500 and Rs 1,000 notes scrapped during demonetisation of November 2016 have
returned to the banking system: RBI
Transfer of surplus to govt. rose by 63.08% to Rs 50,000 crore during the financial year ended June
30, 2018: RBI
Rupee collapses to a lifetime low of 70.52 by plunging 42 paise against the dollar
ADB to provide USD 375 million loan for Madhya Pradesh Irrigation Efficiency Improvement Project
ADB to provide loan for safe, sustainable, and inclusive drinking water service in West Bengal
IBM partners with Indian IT companies for its ‘Call for Code’ initiative that aims to build global
solutions for disaster management
WhatsApp starts radio campaigns in India to tackle fake news
Indian Oil launches LPG-powered iron for pressing clothes in Coimbatore
Dabur ropes in Jacqueline Fernandez as brand ambassador for Dabur Honey
Sun Pharma signs Virat Kohli as brand ambassador for pain reliever Volini
World
External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj meets her Cambodian counterpart Prak Sokhonn in Phnom
Penh
SAARC Agri Cooperative Business Forum begins in Kathmandu
1st SAARC Agri Cooperative Business Forum being held in Kathmandu from August 28 to 20
Arpinder Singh wins gold medal in Men’s Triple Jump with a jump of 16.77m
Swapna Barman wins gold medal in Women’s Heptathlon Athletics accumulating 6026 points
Dutee Chand wins silver medal in women’s 200m
Manika Batra and A. Sharath Kamal win Mixed Doubles bronze in table tennis
Sports
Birth anniversary of hockey legend Dhyan Chand (August 29, 1905-December 3, 1979) celebrated as
National Sports Day in India
M G Bavanarayanan, who was part of the Tamil Nadu team (then Madras) which won Ranji Trophy
title in 1954-55, dies in Chennai at 90
India
SC/ST members of one state cannot seek quota in jobs, admissions in another state, if his or her
caste is not notified there: Supreme Court
Law Commission endorses proposal for simultaneous Lok Sabha, assembly polls in draft report to
Govt
Union government introduces Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARRIA) to
foster culture of innovation in Higher Education Institutions
ICAR organises 2-day conference on Motivating & Attracting Youth in Agriculture (MAYA) in New
Delhi on August 30-31
India opens Zokhawthar immigration check-post in Mizoram along the border with Myanmar
AP govt. to give 5 lakh smart phones to ‘Saadhikara Mitras’ to create public awareness about its
welfare schemes
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Actors Shabana Azmi and Nandita Das among 13 others awarded Bharatiya Manavata Vikas
Puraskar in New Delhi by Daily Indian Media
Economy & Corporate
Yes Bank gets RBI’s approval for continuance of Rana Kapoor as MD and CEO of the bank
IRDAI makes long-term third-party insurance compulsory for cars (3 years) and two-wheelers (5
years)
Railways and GAIL India Ltd sign an MoU for use of Natural Gas in Railway workshops and
production units
Uranium Corporation of India Limited (UCIL) “compelled” to shut down its offices in Meghalaya
Germany to provide soft loan of euro 120 million for Clean Ganga Mission to improve sewage water
treatment infrastructure in Uttarakhand
India signs $346 million loan agreement with ADB to finance improvement of 400 km of state
highways in Karnataka
LG launches “LG Candy” smartphone with changeable back cover for Rs 6,999
Micromax Informatics’ sub-brand YU launches smartphone “YU ACE” for Rs 5,999
Hotels chain Oyo forays into the leisure category with its new brand Palette Resorts
GoAir to starts it first overseas flights from October 11; to connect Mumbai, New Delhi with Phuket
in Thailand
World
6th RCEP (Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership) Trade Ministers’ Meeting organised in
Singapore on August 30-31
4th BIMSTEC (Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation)
Summit organised in Kathmandu on August 30-31
INS Sahyadri reaches Port of Darwin, Australia to participate in Exercise KAKADU 2018 from
August 29 to September 15.
High-level India-Pakistan bilateral talks on the Indus Waters Treaty conclude in Lahore
Indian poet-diplomat Abhay K. becomes 1st Indian invited to record his poems at the Library of
Congress in Washington
Indian photojournalist Tamma Srinivasa Reddy wins Honorary Excellence IUSF Award of Image
Colleague Society in the US
Akshay Kumar-fronted “Gold” becomes first Bollywood film ever to release in Saudi Arabia
August 16, 2018
Armed forces to grant permanent commission for women officers: PM
Prime Minister Narendra Modi during his addresses to the nation on occasion of 72nd Independence Day
from Red Fort announced that permanent commission will be granted to serving women officers of armed
forces. Henceforth, women officers who have been selected through Short Service Commission (SSC) in
defence forces will now have option to take up permanent commission (PC).
Present Scheme
Women are inducted in armed forces only as officers and not in subordinate ranks and currently, there are
1,561 women officers in Indian Army, 1,594 in Indian Air Force (IAF) and 644 in Indian Navy. Unlike male
officers who join under SSC scheme and can opt for PC at end of ten years, women SSC officers do not
have the same option.
Significance
The announcement comes after Government had told Supreme Court (in May 2018) that it was
considering granting PC to SSC women Army officers. Granting PC to women officers will change their
career paths, besides provide full-length career opportunity for women aspirants in the future. PC to
women officers will also give them same option as male officers and they can theoretically achieve higher
ranks like Colonels, Brigadiers, Major Generals and Lieutenant Generals in Indian Army.
Note: Granting PC to women officers will not change the status quo in their induction combat arms
braches of Indian Army like Infantry, Armoured Corps, Mechanised Infantry, Army Aviation Corps and
Artillery b as women are so far not inducted in direct combat roles. Most of senior operational
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commanders in Army are from these combat arms braches, so women officers are less likely to get higher
seniority posts.
Women officers in IAF and Indian Navy
Unlike Indian Army, IAF and Indian Navy have opened up select combat roles for women. IAF has allowed
entry of women as officers in both flying and ground duties. In IAF, women SSC officers are now
commissioned even as fighter pilots, as helicopter and transport pilots. They are also commissioned by
IAF in legal, education and intelligence branches. In Navy, women officers are inducted through SSC in
Logistics, Law, Air Traffic Control (ATC), Observers, Pilots (Maritime Reconnaissance Stream), Naval
Armament Inspectorate Cadre (NAIC), Naval Architecture and Education Branch.
Anandiben Patel takes additional charge as Chattisgarh Governor
President Ram Nath Kovind has given Madhya Pradesh Governor Anandiben Patel additional charge of
Chhattisgarh. She will discharge additional duties until the regular arrangements for the office of
governor of Chhattisgarh are made. She was given additional charge following death of Chhattisgarh
Governor Balramji Dass Tandon (in office from 25 July 2014 to 14 August 2018 till his death after suffering
heart attack).
Balramji Dass Tandon
He was born on 1 November 1927 in Amritsar, Punjab. He was one of the founding members of BJP’s
parent organisation Jan Sangh. He had fought
ramkishan his first election
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | in 1953 and was elected municipal
councillor in Amritsar. He won his first Assembly seat from Amritsar in 1957 and went on to represent
that Vidhan Sabha constituency five times (1960,1962,1967,1969 and 1977) and later from Rajpura in 1997.
He was imprisoned in 1975 during National Emergency for 19 months. He also had served as deputy chief
minister of Punjab in the Justice (retd) Gurnam Singh Akali Dal-Jan Sangh Government. He was appointed
as sixth Governor of Chhattisgarh in July 2014.
Constitutional provisions of Governor
Article 153: It says that there shall be Governor for each state. 7th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1956
facilitated appointment of the same person as governor for two or more states.
Article 156: It says that Governor is appointed by President and hold office during pleasure of President.
2018 Albany Medical Center Prize awarded to James Allison, Carl June and Steven Rosenberg
Three US scientists James Allison, Carl June and Steven Rosenberg were declared winners 2018 Albany
Medical Center Prize in Medicine and Biomedical Research. They were awarded in recognition of their
research in immunology and translation of their ideas into effective therapies that have led to innovative
treatments for cancer, HIV and other diseases. They will share this $500,000 medical prize. They will
receive the award at ceremony to be held in September 2018 in Albany, New York.
Albany Medical Center Prize in Medicine and Biomedical Research
It is United States’ second highest value prize in medicine and biomedical research, awarded by the Albany
Medical Center. It was established in 2000 by late Morris “Marty” Silverman to honor to any physician or
scientists or group whose work have led to significant advances in fields of health care and scientific
research with demonstrated translational benefits applied to improved patient care. It is awarded
annually and carries monetary award of $500,000.
India to launch first manned space mission by 2022: PM
Prime Minister Narendra Modi as part of his 72nd Independence Day speech vowed to put Indian in space
by 2022 under manned space mission on board ‘Gaganyaan’. This announcement gives Indian Space
Research Organisation (ISRO) definitive timeline for manned space mission it has been working on for the
last 15 years.
Note: If successful, India will become fourth nation in the world to send astronaut into space after US,
Russia and China. Former Indian Air Force (IAF) pilot Rakesh Sharma was first Indian to travel to space.
He was part of the Soviet Union’s Soyuz T-11 expedition, launched on April 2, 1984, as part of the
Intercosmos programme.
Key facts
The proposed human spaceflight programme (HSP) has been on table since 2004. ISRO is still long way
away, despite advancements in some critical technologies in past decade. It is stilling building its
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capabilities and developing critical technologies required to send astronaut being into space.
The mission will be completed at budget of Rs 10,000 crore and some of technology components required
for it already have been developed. This includes heavy-lift launch vehicle (GLSV Mark-III), re-entry and
recovery technology, crew module, Environmental Control and Life Support System (ECLSS) and
astronaut training.
The required key technologies ISRO still has to develop for such mission. It includes ability to launch,
recover and ensure earth-like conditions for astronauts. ISRO so far has successfully tested many of the
technologies required for such a manned mission, but there are still others to be developed and tested.
Successfully tested technologies are
In December 2014, experimental flight of GSLV Mk-III was successfully tested. It also had successfully tested
experimental crew module, demonstrating reentry capability. In June 2017, first developmental flight of GSLV Mk-III
was successfully conducted. In July 2018, first successful flight of crew escape system was tested.
Swadesh Darshan Scheme: First project North East Circuit: Imphal and Khongjom launched
The first project under Swadesh Darshan Scheme ‘North East Circuit: Imphal and Khongjom’ was
inaugurated in Manipur. The project covers two sites i.e. Kangla Fort and Khongjom in Manipur. Under
this project, Union Tourism Ministry has carried out works such as restoration and improvement of outer
and inner moat of old Govindajee Templeramkishan
andgugulotu
rejuvenation of sacred ponds, reconstruction of old rampart,
among others.
Key Facts
Kangla Fort is one of the most important historic and archaeological site of Manipur located in the heart
of the capital city Imphal. It had served as tradition seat of past Meetei rulers of Manipur till 1891. The old
Govindajee Temple is the largest Hindu, Vaishnav temple in Imphal city in Manipur. It is located next to
Kangla Fort, palace of the former rulers of the then Manipur Kingdom. Its outer and inner moat and other
relics are perfect reflections of the rich art and architectural heritage of Manipur.
Swadesh Darshan Scheme
The scheme was Union Tourism Ministry with an objective to develop theme-based tourist circuits in the
country. These tourist circuits will be developed on the principles of high tourist value, competitiveness
and sustainability in an integrated manner. It is 100% centrally funded scheme for the project components
undertaken for public funding. It also has provision for leveraging voluntary funding under Corporate
Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives of Central Public Sector Undertakings and corporate sector. The
funding of projects under this scheme vary from state to state. It is finalised on the basis of detailed
project reports prepared by Programme Management Consultant (PMC) which is national level consultant
for implementing the scheme.
FSSAI launches RUCO initiative to collect, convert used cooking oil into biofuel
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) launched RUCO (Repurpose Used Cooking Oil)
initiative to enable collection and conversion of used cooking oil to biodiesel. Under this initiative, 64
companies at 101 locations have been identified to enable collection of used cooking oil.
Key Facts
The initiative was launched nearly month after FSSAI notified standards for used cooking oil. According to
FSSAI regulations, maximum permissible limits for Total Polar Compounds (TPC) have been set at 25%,
beyond which the cooking oil is unsafe for consumption. Beside this, FSSAI is also working in partnership
with Biodiesel Association of India (BAI) and food industry to ensure effective compliance of used cooking
oil regulations.
Background
According to FSSAI, India has potential to recover 220 crore litres of used cooking oil for production of
biodiesel by 2022 through co-ordinated action. Currently, biodiesel produced from used cooking oil is very
small, but robust ecosystem for conversion and collection is rapidly growing in India and soon it will reach
sizable scale. FSSAI is also looking at introducing regulations to ensure that companies using large
quantities of cooking oil hand it over to registered collecting agencies to convert it into biofuel.
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
FSSAI is a nodal statutory agency responsible for protecting and promoting public health in India through
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regulation and supervision of food safety. It was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act,
2006 and operates under aegis of Union Ministry of Health & Family Welfare.
Postal Highway Project: India grants Rs 470 million to Nepal
India has released additional Rs. 470 million (Nepali) for Phase I of Postal Highway Project being
constructed in Southern Plains of Nepal. The amount released will help to maintain fund liquidity for
ongoing construction of 14 road packages under Postal Highway Project.
Key Facts
India is providing financial assistance to Nepal since 1950 for infrastructure development as part of its
multi-sectoral India-Nepal Economic Co-operation Programme. With release of recent additional funds,
India so far has released Rs 2.35 billion to Nepal out of total grant assistance of Rs. 8.00 billion committed
to implement 14 packages under Packages 2-6 of Phase I of Postal Highway Project. The Package 1 of the
Project comprising two road sections Dhangadhi-Bhajaniya-Satti road and Lamki-Tikapur-Khakraula have
already been completed with help of India’s grant assistance worth Rs 1.02 billion. The two roads were
opened for service in January 2017.
Postal Highway
It is also called Hulaki Rajmarg which runs across Terai region of Nepal, from Bhadrapur in east to
Dodhara in west, cutting across entire width of the country. It is oldest highway in Nepal constructed by
Juddha Shumsher Jung Bahadur Rana and Padma
ramkishan Shumsher Jung| Bahadur Rana to aid transportation and
facilitate postal services throughout the Himalayan nation.

24th World Congress of Philosophy held in Beijing, China
The 24th World Congress of Philosophy (WCP) was held in Beijing, China from August 13 to 17, 2018. It was
organized by the International Federation of Philosophical Societies, and Peking University. Its theme was
“Learning To Be Human”. This was first time that the quinquennial (once in five year) event was held in
China.
Key Facts
24th WCP event saw more than 1,000 activities such as plenary sessions, symposia, lectures and
roundtables. More than 6,000 philosophers and academics from 121 countries and regions had attended
the event. They had shared diverse philosophical thoughts and took part in dialogues focusing on major
issues confronting development of global civilization and challenges that mankind will face in the future.
World Congress of Philosophy
It is global meeting of philosophers held every five years (quinquennialy) under auspices of International
Federation of Philosophical Societies (FISP). It was first organized in 1900 in Paris, France and since it has
become one of the largest philosophical events in the world. Its purpose is to contribute to development of
professional relations between philosophers of all countries, promote philosophical education, and
contribute to impact of philosophical knowledge on global problems. Each World Congress is sponsored
by one of member societies in different country, which assumes responsibility for organization of that
Congress.
August 17, 2018
N Raghuram became first Indian to get elected as Chair of International Nitrogen Initiative
Indian scientist-academician N Raghuram became first Indian and Asian to get elected as Chair of
International Nitrogen Initiative (INI), a global policy making initiative. He will succeed Mark Sutton of the
UK Centre for Ecology and Hydrology, Edinburgh. Besides, him David Kanter of the New York University
was elected as Vice-Chair. The new chairs will formally take up their roles on January 1, 2019.
Responsibilities of new chair
Their responsibility will be to steer network of six regional centres each under INI Regional Director (East
Asia, South Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America, North America). Other INI projects under their purview
will include N-print activity on nitrogen foot-printing and cooperation with Global Carbon Project on
establishment of global nitrous oxide budget. They will also enable INI to strengthen its contribution to
global science-policy processes, including supporting the International Nitrogen Management System
(INMS) and providing regular input to the United Nations Environment Assembly (UNEA).
N Raghuram
He specialises in biological determinants of nitrogen use efficiency in crops. He has been President of
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Indian Nitrogen Group (co-founded by him) and Steering Committee member of UNEP Global Partnership
on Nutrient Management. He also had served as Director of the South Asian Nitrogen Centre. At present,
he is professor at GGS Indraprastha University, New Delhi.
International Nitrogen Initiative (INI)
INI is international programset up in 2003 under sponsorship of the Scientific Committee on Problems of
Environment (SCOPE) and from International Geosphere-Biosphere Program (IGBP). Its key aims are to
optimize nitrogen’s beneficial role in sustainable food production and minimize nitrogen’s negative effects
on human health and environment resulting from food and energy production. INI is coordinated by
Steering Committee, led by chair and six regional centre directors representing, North America, South
Asia, Africa, Europe, Latin America and East Asia. INI is also currently sustained partner of Future Earth
(an international organisation that works to accelerate transformations to global sustainability through
research and innovation).
Former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee passes away
Veteran political leader, prolific writer and former Prime Minister of India Atal Bihari Vajpayee passed
away in New Delhi. He was 93. He was Prime Minister thrice in 1996 (13 days), 1998-1999 and 1999-2004
(making him first non-Congress leader to have completed full term as Prime Minister).
Atal Bihari Vajpayee
He was born on 25th December 1924 in ramkishan
Gwalior,
gugulotu |Madhya Pradesh.
ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | He was amongst founder members of
erstwhile Bharatiya Jana Sangh (and was its president in 1968 upon death of Deendayal Upadhyaya) which
later became known as Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
He parliamentarian for over 47 years elected to Lok Sabha for 10 times (elected for first time in 1957 from
Balrampur constituency in Uttar Pradesh) and 2 times to Rajya Sabha. During first non-Congress
Government of Prime Minister Morarji Desai in Centre he had served as Minister of External Affairs.
He served as PM of India between 1996 and 2004 in three non-consecutive terms viz. May 1996 (for 13
days), 1998–1999 (for 11 months) and 1999–2004. During his second term as PM, he had ordered
thermonuclear tests in May 1998 which were seen as strategic masterstroke to blunt Pakistan’s nuclear
ambitions.
Some of his pet projects launched during his tenure as PM were National Highway Development Project
(Golden Quadrilateral) and Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan. In 2009, he had
retired from active politics due to health concerns.
He was awarded the India’s highest civilian honour ‘Bharat Ratna’ in 2015. His birthday is
celebrated as Good Governance Day (GGD) by the Central Government since 2014 to foster
awareness among the people of accountability in government. His poetry collection is released in
his book Meri Ekyaavan Kavitayein (My 51 Poems).
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NPCI launches UPI 2.0 with overdraft facility

National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has launched UPI 2.0, an upgraded and renwed version of
Unified Payments Interface (UPI) by adding four new features to make it attractive and safer for users.
These new features will allow users to link their overdraft account to UPI, creation of one-time mandates
and pre-authorisation of transactions for payment at later date and checking the invoice sent by merchant
prior to making payment.
Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
UPI is payments system that allows multiple bank accounts belonging to any participating bank to be
controlled via single mobile app. It was launched by NPCI in April 2016 to allows easy, quick and hassle
free money transfer between any two parties. The UPI app merges a number of banking features,
facilitating seamless and secure fund transfer and merchant payments at single platform. It also allows
Peer to Peer collection request.
UPI is a payment system much like existing NEFT, RTGS, IMPS etc. but it is far more sophisticated and
standardized across banks. Technically, UPI is standard set of APIs (Application programming interface).
UPI allows us to pay directly from bank account to different merchants without putting details of card
details, net banking, IFSC code, wallet password etc. Since, it is standardized across banks, transaction
through is hassle free. The transactions which can be done using UPI include Merchant payments,
remittances, bill payments and so on. ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Four additional services in UPI 2.0 are
Overdraft facility: It will allow users to link their overdraft (OD) account to UPI. Earlier, only current
accounts and savings accounts were able to linked with UPI. It will help UPI customers have instant
transaction through an additional digital channel with access to OD account.
One Time Mandate: It allows users to schedule payments. It also allows pre-authorisation of transaction
in which amount will be deducted on date for which has been scheduled. It can be used in cases where
money is to be transferred later while commitment has been made now.
Invoice in The Inbox: It allows users to get invoices sent by merchants in their inbox, which will help them
to view and verify credentials. With this, users can view and verify credentials of merchant even before
making payment and ensure their authenticity.
Signed Intent and QR: This feature will allow users to check credentials of merchants via Quick Response
(QR) code. It will enable to check whether merchant is UPI verified or not.
National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI)
NPCI is the umbrella organisation for all retail payments system in India. It is being promoted the Reserve
Bank of India. It was founded in 2008 as a not-for-profit organisation registered under section 25 of the
Companies Act, 2013. It has successfully played pioneering role in development of a domestic card
payment network called RuPay, reducing the dependency on international card schemes.
India to grow 7.2% in 2018-19 down from earlier projection of 7.4%: Ind-Ra Outlook
Rating agency India Ratings & Research (Ind-Ra) in its Mid-Year FY19 Outlook has revised down India’s
growth to 7.2% from its earlier projection of 7.4% for 2018-19 (FY19). The downward revision comes as
Indian economy to face headwinds from high crude oil prices, increase in minimum support prices (MSP)
of kharif crops, rising trade protectionism, depreciating currency and no visible signs of abatement of the
non-performing assets (NPA) of the banking sector.
Ind-Ra Mid-Year FY19 Outlook Projections
Drivers of Growth: Growth in India is being primary driven by private consumption and government
spending. But other two engines of growth – investment and exports – have slowed down.
Capital expenditure: Capex by government alone will be insufficient to revive the capex cycle of the
economy. Its share in total capex of economy was only 11.1% during 2012-17. On the other hand, share of
private corporations was 40.9%. Private corporations in combination with household sector command
77.5% of total investment in the economy, so their capex revival is important for broad-based recovery in
the investment cycle of the economy.
Consumption expenditure: Private final consumption expenditure is projected to grow at 7.6% in 2018-19
compared to 6.6% in 2017-18, while expansion of government final consumption expenditure is expected to
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slow down to 8.6% from 10.9% during the same period.

Exports: The annual value of exports will touch $345 billion in FY19, crossing peak of $318 billion attained
in FY14, but India will continue to face headwinds on the exports front.
Rupee: It has already depreciated 7.7% till July 2018 in response to elevated global turbulence, worsening
of current account deficit (CAD), rising inflation and concerns related to fiscal deficit.
CAD: India’s currency account deficit to rise to 2.6% of GDP in 2018-19, up from 1.9 % in the last fiscal year.
In absolute terms, it is expected to widen to $ 71.1 billion in 2018-19 from $48.7 billion in 2017-18.
Mobilisation of $25 billion from non-resident Indians (NRIs), similar to funds raised in 2013, will be able to
finance CAD.
Ind-Ra is one of the India’s most respected credit rating agency that provides ratings, research and rigorous analytics
of market in India. The headquarters of Ind-Ra is located in Mumbai and is belong to Fitch group.
India pitches for declaring 2019 as International Year of Millets

India (Union Ministry of Agriculture) has written to Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of United
Nations (UN) proposing declaration of year 2019 as “International Year of Millets”. It has requested
inclusion of this proposal in agenda of 26th session of the Committee on Agriculture (COAG) meeting,
scheduled to be held in October 2018 in Rome, Italy. Adoption of this proposal by FAO with support of its
member nations will enable it to be moved to United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) for declaration of
2019 as International Year of Millets.”
Note: India is celebrating 2018 as National Year of Millets. It is promoting cultivation of millets as part of
this celebration by amending cropping pattern of areas which are especially susceptible to climate change.
Significance
Millets are smart food and good for consumers, farmers and planet multiple and has untapped uses such
as food, feed, biofuels and brewing. Observation of Year of Millets will help to promote production and
consumption of millets. It will inturn contribute in fight against targeted hunger and mitigate effect of
climate change in long run. Popularizing millets will also benefit future generations of farmers as well as
consumers.
Millets
Millet is common term to categorize small-seeded grasses that are often termed nutri-cereals or dryland-
cereals. It mainly includes sorghum, ragi, pearl millet, small millet, proso millet, foxtail millet, barnyard millet,
kodo millet etc. They are adapted to harsh environment of semi-arid tropics. They require low or no purchased
inputs, thus they are backbone for dry land agriculture.
Benefits of Millets
Nutritional Superiority: Millets are nutritionally superior to wheat and rice owing to their higher levels of
protein with more balanced amino acid profile, crude fibre and minerals such as Iron, Zinc, and
Phosphorous. It provides nutritional security and act as shield against nutritional deficiency, especially
among children and women.
Health Benefits: Pellagra (niacin deficiency), Anaemia (iron deficiency), B-complex vitamin deficiency can
be effectively tackled with intake of less expensive but nutritionally rich food grains like millets. It can also
help tackle health challenges such as obesity, diabetes and lifestyle problems as they are gluten free and
also have low glycemic index and are high in dietary fibre and antioxidants.
Income and livelihood Source: Millets are important staple cereal crop for millions of small holder dryland
farmers. They offer nutrition, resilience, income and livelihood for farmers even in difficult times. They
have multiple untapped uses such as food, feed, fodder, biofuels and brewing. Thus, millets are Smart Food
as they are Good for the Farmer and Good for Planet.
Climate Change: Millets are photo-insensitive and resilient to climate change. They are hardy, resilient
crops that have low carbon and water footprint. They can withstand high temperatures and grow on poor
soils with little or no external inputs. In times of climate change they are often last crop standing and thus
are good risk management strategy for resource-poor marginal farmers.
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SC accepts Centre’s proposal for use of coloured stickers to indicate nature of fuel
Supreme Court has accepted Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) proposal to use
hologram-based coloured stickers on vehicles, plying in Delhi-National Capital Region (NCR) to indicate
the nature of the fuel used. The apex court has asked government to implement use of coloured stickers on
vehicles plying in Delhi-NCR by September 30, 2018. It also clarified that this colour-coding will only be
applicable in Delhi and NCR.
Key Facts
With this approval, Delhi will be first city in India to have hologram-based coloured stickers on according
to fuel they run on. This move aims to counter air pollution in national capital. Under this colour scheme
proposed by MoRTH, light-blue colour will be used for vehicles running petrol and CNG-run vehicles while
orange colour sticker will be used for diesel-driven vehicles. These hologram-based stickers will also
contain registration date of the vehicle. MoRTH is also considering to introduce green number plates for
electric and hybrid vehicles.
Significance
Introduction of coloured stickers will restrict use of more polluting vehicles in congested or polluted zone
temporarily or permanently depending on the pollution level. The colour coding will help authorities
identify and restrict vehicles running on high-polluting fuel from congested or polluted zone temporarily
or permanently depending on the pollution level
August 18, 2018

11th World Hindi Conference begins in Mauritius
11th World Hindi Conference (विश्व हिंदी सम्मेलन) was held in Mauritius in its capital city Port
Lois from August 18-20, 2018. It was inaugurated by Prime Minister of Mauritius Praveen Kumar
Jagannath and was attended by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and some other ministers.
Key Facts
The theme of the Conference is “Vaishvik Hindi Aur Bharatiy Sanskriti“. It was be organised by Ministry of
External Affairs, Government of India in association with Government of Mauritius. The venue of
Conference was Swami Vivekanand International Convention Centre, Pailles Mauritius.
The conference provided common platform to several Hindi scholars, writers and laureates from different
parts of the world to contribute language. It was attended by delegates from India and various countries
of the world. They deliberated on eight subtopics on Hindi World and Indian Culture. It was for first time
of the conference, representatives from all 29 states and Union Territories of Delhi, Chandigarh and
Puducherry attended the conference.
Background
World Hindi Conference was started in 1975 to make Hindi language a medium of service and knowledge
and enable it to move forward with time. Since then, ten such Conferences have been held in different
parts of world. The 1st World Hindi Conference was held from 10 to 12 January 1975 in Nagpur,
Maharashtra and was inaugurated by then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. To commemorate this event,
every year 10th January is being observed as World Hindi Day. The 10 edition of World Hindi Conference
was held in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh (India) in 2015 with the theme of Hindi Jagat-Vistar and Sambhavnaye.
iCRAFPT: International Conference on Recent Advances in Food Processing Technology held in Thanjavur
International Conference on Recent Advances in Food Processing Technology (iCRAFPT) was held at
Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology (IFPT), Thanjavur in Tamil Nadu. The theme of conference
was “Doubling farmers’ income through food processing”.
Key Facts
The conference provided strong platform for knowledge sharing and meaningful delegation among
industry, academia, researchers and farmers which will potentially impact the food sector growth to a
newer height. It featured eight technical sessions on diversified areas of food processing. It saw
participation of over 9 overseas speakers, 77 Indian speakers, 18 food industry talks, 30 series lectures, 2
panel discussions etc.
Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology (IIFPT)
It is premier national institute working under administrative control of Union Ministry of Food
Processing Industries (MoFPI). It is headquartered in Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu. It delivers research and
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education in food processing. It also incubates farmers, entrepreneurs and aspiring youth for prospective
food business ventures.
US announces creation of Iran Action Group to pressurise Iran
United States (US) State Department has announced creation of Iran Action Group (IAG) to execute
President Donald Trump administration’s Iran strategy and pressure country to change its behaviors. Its
creation comes in wake of US withdrawal (unilaterally) from Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (also
known nuclear deal) signed between Iran and P5+1 countries (P5: China, France, Russia, United Kingdom,
United States and +1: Germany,) and European Union in Vienna (Austria) in July 2015.
Iran Action Group (IAG)
IAG will be responsible for directing, reviewing, and coordinating all aspects of State Department’s Iran-
related activity, and it will report directly to US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo. It will ensure that
Department of State remains closely synchronized with interagency partners and lead US diplomatic
efforts to galvanize international support for our efforts. Veteran diplomat Brian Hook (current director of
Policy Planning in State Department) was appointed head of IAG and will lead it with formal title of
Special Representative for Iran.
Background
US had unilaterally withdrawn from historic 2015 Iran nuclear deal, citing it unfair and it cannot prevent
Iran nuclear bomb and is defective at itsramkishan
coregugulotu
as it does not target
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | Iran’s ballistic missile programme, its
nuclear activities beyond year 2025, and its subversive political and military involvement in Syria, Yemen,
Lebanon, and Iraq. It also simultaneously announced to re-impose sanctions on Iran that had been lifted
under nuclear deal to squeeze Iran’s economy and, consequently, its regime in order to change its policies.
Following pullout from JCPOA, US had rolled out new strategy on Iran, outlining 12-point requirements
for Iran to change its behaviors. In August 2018, uS re-imposed sanctions on Iran on non-energy areas and
notified that it will slap remaining sanctions in November 2018 that concentrate on Iran’s key economic
areas such as energy, shipping and ports.
Esow Alben: Teen cyclist creates history by winning India’s first ever medal at world level
Indian Teen cyclist Esow Alben (17) created history by winning the country’s maiden medal in track
cycling at the world level. He achieved this feat by winning silver medal in Men’s Keirin event of UCI
Junior Track Cycling World Championships held in Aigle, Switzerland. In the final sprint of this event,
Esow finished just 0.017 seconds behind gold medallist Jakub Stastny (Czech Republic).
Esow Alben
Esow hails from Andaman and Nicobar. He is currently ranked world No. 1 in junior sprint category of
cycling after sensational run in Asian Championships and victories in 2018 Cottbuser Sprint Cup 2, GP
Brno Track Cycling competitions. This makes him first Indian to reach the top spot in cycling. He is also
ranked world no. 3 in keirin event of cycling, where cyclists sprint for victory on track following controlled
start. Esow had won hat-trick of gold medals at 2018 Asian Track Cycling Championships in Malaysia. In
this event, he had won gold medals in individual and team event. He trains in Delhi at Sports Authority of
India’s (SAI) National Cycling Academy.
Banks Board Bureau hires Egon Zehnder, Hay Consultants to develop strategies
Banks Board Bureau (BBB) has appointed two firms Egon Zehnder International Pvt. Ltd and Hay
Consultants Pvt. Ltd to assist in developing strategies for top bank management.
Key Facts
Egon Zehnder was appointed as knowledge partner to design, implement and institutionalise a flagship
leadership development strategy for state-run banks in India. Hay Consultants was appointed to assess
leadership competencies and potential capabilities of people appearing for post of whole time directors in
state-run banks. Their expertise will help to bring in experienced professionals as whole-time directors is
part of focus to ensure more effective monitoring of decisions taken by state owned bank management.
Comment
The appointment two consultants to assist BBB is indication of growing stress on leadership skills in
public sector banks (PSBs). Their appointment comes at a time when state-run banks have been struggling
to appoint quality people in top management. It also comes at a time efforts are being made by
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government and Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to revive PSBs suffering from huge levels of non-performing
assets (NPAs) and losses.
Banks Board Bureau (BBB)
BBB is autonomous body of Central Government tasked to improve governance of Public Sector Banks
(PSBs), recommend selection of chiefs of government owned banks and financial institutions and help
banks in developing strategies and capital raising plans.
It was announced by Union Government in August 2015 as part of seven point Indradhanush Mission to
revamp PSBs and started functioning in April 2016. It had replaced Appointments Board of Government. It
is housed in Reserve Bank of India’s (RBI) central office in Mumbai, Maharashtra.
It comprises eminent professionals and officials for public sector banks (PSBs). Current BBB Chairman is
Bhanu Pratap Sharma. The first BBB was set up in February 2016 under chairmanship of former CAG
Vinod Rai for two-year term that ended in March 2018
Functions of BBB
Give recommendations for appointment of full-time Directors as well as non-Executive Chairman of
PSBs.
Give advice to PSBs in developing differentiated strategies for raising funds through innovative
financial methods and instruments and to deal with issues of stressed assets.
Guide banks on mergers and consolidations and governance issues to address bad loans problem
among other issues.
Barak 8 missile defence system: Israeli Navy to procure Indo-Israel made missile
Israeli Navy has announced to procure multi-purpose Barak 8 missile defence system, jointly developed by
India and Israel. It will be used by Israeli Navy’s Sa’ar-6 corvettes to expand its operational capabilities of
Israeli navy, including defence of Israel’s territorial and exclusive economic zone (EEZ) and strategic
facilities from diversified threats.
Barak-8 Missile
Barak-8 (Lightning 8 in Hebrew), also known as also known as LR-SAM or as MR-SAM is an operational air
and missile defense system used by Israeli Navy as well as by Indian Navy and air forces. It has been jointly
developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and India’s Defence Research and Development
Organisation (DRDO), Israel’s Administration for Development of Weapons and Technological
Infrastructure, Elta Systems, Rafael and some other Indian defence companies.
Features: The missile is about 4.5 meters long, 0.225 meters in diameter and weighs 275 kg including 60
kg warhead. It has maximum speed of Mach 2 with maximum operational range of 70 km (which has been
increased to 100 km). It has dual pulse rocket motor as well as Thrust vector control and possesses high
degrees of maneuverability at target interception range.
Capabilities: The missile provides broad aerial and point defence against wide range of threats to marine
arena from the air, sea or land. It is designed to defend against variety of short-to-long-range airborne
threats, including fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters, drones and projectiles. It incorporates state-of-the-art
phased array multi-mission radar, two-way data link, and flexible command and control system, enabling
users to simultaneously engage multiple targets day and night and in all weather conditions.
Investment in P-notes hits 9-year low at Rs 80,341 crore
Investments through participatory notes (P-notes) into Indian capital markets- equity, debt, and
derivatives have plunged to over nine-year low of Rs 80,341 crore till July 2018-end. This is the lowest level
since April 2009 when the cumulative value of such investments stood at Rs 72,314 crore.
Background
The decline comes amid stringent norms put in place by market watchdog Securitas Exchange Board of
India (SEBI) to check misuse of these instruments. In July 2017, Sebi had notified stricter norms
stipulating fee of US $1,000 on each instrument to check any misuse for channelising black money. It had
also prohibited FPIs from issuing such notes where underlying asset is derivative, except those which are
used for hedging purposes. Earlier in April 2017, SEBI also had barred resident Indians, NRIs and entities
owned by them from making investment through P-notes.
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Participatory Notes (P-notes)

P-notes are offshore/overseas derivative instruments (ODIs) issued by registered foreign portfolio
investors (FPIs) to overseas investors who wish to be part of the Indian stock market without registering
themselves directly. They, however, need to go through due diligence process. P-Notes are not used within
the country but are mainly used outside India for making investments in shares listed in the Indian stock
market. SEBI had permitted FIIS to participate and register in the Indian stock market in 1992. Earlier,
investing through P-Notes is very simple and is very popular amongst FPIs, FIIs.
Public sector banks to come out of PCA framework by end of 2018: Government
Union Government is expecting that public sector banks (PSBs) placed under RBI’s Prompt Corrective
Action (PCA) framework will come out of it by the end of this year. As many as 11 out of 21 state-owned
banks are currently under PCA framework.
Reasons
Operational performance of PSBs has improved in April-June 2018 quarter, with steep reduction in net
losses, increase in recoveries and significant improvement in provision coverage ratio. Besides,
government is also providing PSUs adequate capital when required. Some of capital already has been
given, as recoveries is taking place and there is possibility that some banks will not need it. As of now,
there no bank is breaching regulatory norms prescribed by RBI.
Prompt corrective action (PCA) framework ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
PCA framework is supervisory tool of RBI, which involves monitoring of certain performance indicators of
banks to check their financial health as early warning exercise and to ensure that banks don’t go bust. Its
objective is to facilitate banks to take corrective measures including those prescribed by RBI, in timely
manner to restore their financial health. It also provides opportunity to RBI to pay focussed attention on
such banks by engaging with management more closely in those areas.
PCA framework is invoked on banks when they breach any of three key regulatory trigger points (or
thresholds). They are capital to risk weighted assets ratio, net non-performing assets (NPA) and Return on
Assets (RoA). Depending on risk thresholds set in PCA framework, banks are put in two type of
restrictions, mandatory and discretionary depending upon their placement in PCA framework levels. The
mandatory restrictions are on dividend, branch expansion, directors compensation while discretionary
restrictions include curbs on lending and deposit.
FSSAI constitutes B Sesikeran committee to review food labelling standards
Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has constituted three-member committee to look
into draft food labelling and display regulations-Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display)
Regulations 2018. The committee will be headed by B Sesikeran, former director of National Institute of
Nutrition (NIN)and comprises of current NIN director Hemalatha and AIIMS’ endocrinologist Nikhil
Tandon.
Key Facts
FSSAI had released draft Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations 2018 in April
2018. It had proposed mandatory red-label marking on such packaged food products which are high in fat,
sugar and salt contents. The front-of-the-pack red label mark was aimed to make consumers more aware
about healthy and unhealthy food products. But, Union Health Ministry had put on hold on the draft
regulations, after industry stakeholders had expressed concerns, citing that it may have an adverse impact
on evolving packaged food industry. So address their concerns, FSSAI has decided to set up committee of
experts with health and nutrition background to look into t draft regulations.
Significance
India can learn from best practices from the other countries such as Denmark, Norway and Singapore on
labelling and trans-fat regulations. Consultation process started by FSSAI is seen as an attempt to begin
dialogue among stakeholders on proposed draft labelling regulations. Moreover, recently, several
companies had pledged to FSSAI’s Eat Right Movement and have made voluntary commitments to reduce
salt, sugar and fat in their products. FSSAI in future is likely to push more and more companies to make
similar voluntary commitments.
Government bans pet coke import for fuel use
Directorate General of Foreign Trade (DGFT) under Ministry of Commerce and Industry has banned import
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of petcoke for use as fuel. But it has allowed its import of only for use as feedstock in some select industries
such as cement, lime kiln, calcium carbide and gasification industries. These industries were earlier
affected by petcoke-related policy flip-flops, which began after Supreme Court judgment (October 2017)
banning use its in and around New Delhi to curb pollution.
Key Facts
India is the world’s biggest consumer of petcoke. It gets over half its annual petcoke imports of around 27
million tonnes from United States. Local producers include Indian Oil Corp, Reliance Industries and
Bharat Petroleum Corp. It is dark solid carbon material. Cement companies in India account for about
three-fourths of country’s petcoke use. Usage of pet coke in energy-hungry India recently had come under
scrutiny due to rising pollution levels in major cities.
Petcoke (Petroleum coke)
It is one of the many industrial byproducts produced during oil refining. It is categorized as bottom of the
barrel fuel as it is residual waste material which is obtained after refining coal to extract lighter fuels like
petrol. It is used as a source of energy and carbon for various industrial applications. It is abundantly used
in India in several manufacturing industries such as cement, steel and textile as it is significantly cheaper
that coal, has high calorific value and is easier to transport and store. There are two kinds of pet coke
produced viz. Fuel grade pet coke (80%) and calcined pet coke (20%) during oil refining.
Environment and Health Hazards of Petramkishan
Cokegugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Petcoke is much more potent pollutant than coal and causes greater harm to the environment and health.
It contains whopping 74,000 PPM of sulphur content which is released into atmosphere as emissions
which is much higher than vehicular emissions. It is also source of fine dust, which can get through
filtering process of human airway and lodge in lungs which can cause serious health problems. Apart from
sulphur, petcoke also releases cocktail of other toxic gases after burning such as nitrous oxide, mercury,
arsenic, chromium, nickel, hydrogen chloride and greenhouse gases (GHG) which contribute to global
warming.
August 19, 2018
Home Ministry to relax terms in agreement signed on repatriation of Bru persons to Mizoram
Union Home Ministry has agreed to relax conditions laid down in ‘four-corner agreement’ signed with Bru
migrants for their repatriation from Tripura to Mizoram. The agreement was signed between
Government of India, Governments of Mizoram and Tripura and Mizoram Bru Displaced People’s Forum
(MBDPF) in July 2018.
Provisions of agreement
The agreement covers 5,407 Bru families (32876 persons) presently staying in temporary camps in Tripura
to repatriate them to Mizoram before September 30, 2018. Central Government will provide financial
assistance for their rehabilitation in Mizoram and address their issues of security, education, livelihood
etc. in consultation with Governments of Mizoram and Tripura. These families who moved to Mizoram
from Tripura will be given one-time financial assistance of Rs 4 lakh to be kept as fixed deposit in name of
head of family. This cash assistance will be to be provided only after three years of uninterrupted stay in
Mizoram. Moreover, house building assistance of Rs 1.5 lakh will be also disbursed to these families in
three instalments. Besides, these families will be also provided with free ration for two years and monthly
assistance of Rs 5,000 for each family. Identity documents such as ration cards and Aadhaar will be issued
by Tripura government. Mizoram government will ensure security for all repatriated refugees who were
identified and verified as per 1997 electoral rolls of Mizoram.
Relaxed Provisions
The relaxation in few terms of agreement comes after leaders of MBDPF who had signed agreement were
forced to pull out of deal after signing it due to strong protests by Bru community in Tripura against
certain terms of the deal. The period of stay for cash assistance of Rs 4 lakh for Bru refugees will be
relaxed from three years to two (or even one and half years). They can withdraw 90% of the Rs 4 lakh
assistance as bank loan immediately after their return. Moreover, conditions in place for financial
assistance may be also relaxed. The building assistance will be in single or two instalments. On relocation,
at least 50 refugees will be settled in each village.
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Background
Bru (or Reang) are tribals inhabit to some parts of Northeastern states. In Mizoram, they are largely
restricted to Mamit and Kolasib districts. In 1997, following bout of ethnic violence between Mizos and
Brus, thousands of people from Bru tribe were forced to leave their homes in Mizoram and settle down in
Tripura. Mizo Students’ Association (MZA) was demanding to remove Brus from the state’s electoral rolls,
contending that Bru tribe was not indigenous to Mizoram. This ethnic violence had led to retaliatory
armed movement (Bru militancy) led by militant outfit Bru National Liberation Front (BNLF) and political
one by Bru National Union (BNU) demanding an autonomous tribal district. The first phase of repatriation
of Brus from Tripura to Mizoram was started in November 2010, when 1,622 Bru families with 8,573
members were resettled in Mizoram. But repatriation process was stalled in 2011, 2012 and 2015 amid
protests by Mizo NGOs.
Only 23% of rural income from farming: NABARD 2016-17 survey
According to National Bank for Agriculture & Rural Development’s (NABARD) All India Rural Financial
Inclusion Survey 2016-17, agriculture (farming) generates only 23% of rural income i.e. not even quarter of
rural household incomes in India. Even for so-called agricultural households, just over 43% of their average
income comes from cultivation of crops and rearing of animals. The reference period of survey was
2015-16.
Highlights of NABARD Survey ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
It estimates that total number of rural households in India at 21.17 crore. Its definition of “rural” is broad,
covering revenue villages and semi-urban centres with population of less than 50,000. Out of 21.17 crore
rural households, 10.07 crore, or under 48% are agricultural. At least one member is self-employed in
farming with annual value of produce at more than Rs 5,000. The remaining 11.10 crore households
(around 52%) are non-agricultural.
The average net monthly income of Indian rural householdsafter deducting expenses incurred in course of
economic activity was Rs 8,059. The highest share of this (Rs 3,504) was accounted for by wage labour
(both farm and non-farm), followed by government or private service jobs (Rs 1,906).
The agriculture income i.e. income from crop cultivation and livestock rearing contributed only Rs 1,832.
Within agricultural households, the share of average income from cultivation and livestock rearing was
just over 43%. The balance 57% income was from non-agricultural sources.
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Significance of Survey
It reinforces trend that has gathered momentum since start of this century of increasingly less ‘Krishi’ in
‘Bharat’. It also reconfirms and magnifies earlier findings of National Sample Survey Office’s (NSSO)
Situation Assessment Survey of Agricultural Households conducted for 2012-13. Though both surveys
were having methodological differences, but they highlight same fact of rural India becoming less
agricultural, both in terms of share of families engaged in farming and diversification of income sources even
in their case.
Insurers to cover mental illness under medical insurance policy: IRDAI
Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority (IRDAI) has asked insurers to cover mental illness
under medical insurance policy from immediate effect, treating it at par with physical illness. At present,
insurers exclude mental illness from ambit of medical insurance policies.
Key Facts
IRDAI’s directive follows Mental Healthcare Act, 2017 enacted by Parliament and came into force from
May 2018. The section 21(4) of said Act mandates every insurer to make provision for medical insurance
for treatment of mental illness on same basis as available for treatment of physical illness. According to
provisions of the Act, mental healthcare includes analysis and diagnosis of person’s mental condition and
treatment as well as care and rehabilitation of such person for his mental illness or suspected mental
illness.
Mental illness
As per Ministry of Law and Justice, mental illness is defined as substantial disorder of thinking, mood, perception,
orientation or memory that grossly impairs behaviour, judgment, capacity to recognise reality or ability to meet
ordinary demands of life. It also includes mental conditions associated with abuse of alcohol and drugs, but does not
include mental retardation which is condition of arrested or incomplete development of mind of person, specially
characterised by subnormality of intelligence.
Significance
Bringing mental illness under medical insurance policy, will ensure life of dignity to those who have
mental health issues. It will help to create awareness, acceptance and inclusion of mental illness as any
other ailment. Moreover, it will bring mental health disorders at par with physical illnesses, which will
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normalize diagnoses, reduce associated myths and stigma related mental health disorders. It will be in
lines with global practice, as globally, companies cover mental illness after initial waiting period of two-
three years.
India wins SAFF U-15 Women’s Championship by defeating Bangladesh
India won South Asian Football Federation (SAFF) Under-15 Women’s Championship. In the final match
held in Thimpu, Bhutan, India defeated Bangladesh by 1-0 score. Sunita Munda scored the goal that helped
the Indian U-15 team clinch the title. Earlier in the semifinal, India defeated Nepal 2-1.
SAFF U-15 Women’s Championship is association football tournament for women’s national teams under
the age of 15 from seven south Asian countries (Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and
Bhutan). This was second edition of SAFF Under-15 Women’s Championship. Bangladesh had won the
inaugural edition in 2017 by beating India, 1-0 in the final played at Dhaka.
South Asian Football Federation (SAFF)
It is an association of the football playing nations in South Asia. This federation was founded in 1997 and is
byproduct of SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation), a regional organization of seven
nations of South Asia region which was established in 1985. It is part of the larger Asian Football
Confederation. Its founding members are Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.
Bhutan joined the federation in 2000 and Afghanistan in 2005. In February 2015, Afghanistan had
officially left SAFF. Now SAFF has totalramkishan
seven participating nations Bangladesh, India, Maldives, Nepal,
Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bhutan.

Government constitutes Bhaskar Ramamurthy Committee for JEE (Advanced) reforms
Union Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) has proposed to set up five-member committee
to suggest changes to JEE (Advanced) in the wake of an inadequate number of candidates qualifying
entrance test this year. The committee will be headed by IIT-Madras director Bhaskar Ramamurthy.
Key Facts
The mandate of committee is to develop robust and scientifically designed entrance exam system to test
potential of candidates as well as to reduce their dependence on coaching institutes. Other members of
the committee will include Abhay Karandikar (Director of IIT-Kanpur), Vineet Joshi (Director General of
National Testing Agency) and Professor Kannan Moudgalya of IIT-Bombay.
Background
The first merit list for JEE (Advanced) 2018 had only 18,138 candidates, which was only 1.6 times total
sanctioned seats. It was smallest pool of qualified candidates since 2012. It was also very less than
mandated required of twice number of seats on offer. This had forced HRD Ministry to step in last-minute
and order IIT Kanpur (which had organised JEE-Advanced this year) to release list of candidates, twice
number of seats in each discipline and category (strictly as per merit) prior to starting the choice filling
through JoSAA (Joint Seat Allocation Authority). Subsequently, IIT Kanpur added another 13842
candidates (8,954 general, 3,824 OBC, 771 SCs and 293 from ST category) to merit list, taking total up to
31,980 candidates. To avoid such incident in future, HRD Ministry has proposed to set up five-member
member Committee.
Scientists for first time decode complex wheat genome
Team of international researchers including 18 Indian scientists for first time have decoded wheat
genome. In this research, DNA sequence of bread wheat was successfully ordered and it represents
highest quality genome sequence generated to date for such wheat variety.
Key Facts
The research conducted by more than 200 scientists from 73 research institutions in 20 countries. The
reference enome decoded covers 94% (14.5 Gb) of entire wheat genome. Team of 18 Indian scientists
contributed in decoding of Chromosome 2A of wheat genome. This project was financially supported by
Department of Biotechnology, Ministry of Science and Technology.
Significance
The research shows that bread wheat has complex hexaploid genome which is 40 times larger than that of
rice genome and 5 times larger than human genome. Information generated by decoded wheat genome
will help to identify genes controlling complex agronomic traits such as yield, grain quality, resistance to
diseases and pests as well as tolerance to drought, heat, water logging and salinity. The availability of high
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quality reference genome will accelerate breeding of climate-resilient wheat varieties to feed ever-
increasing world population and help address global food security in decades to come.
UIDAI announces phased rollout of face authentication
Aadhaar-issuing body UIDAI (Unique Identity Authority of India) has announced phased roll-out of face
recognition for carrying out Aadhaar authentication from September 15, 2018 as additional security layer.
It also has announced new feature ‘live face photo,’ which is live feed of person facial features whose 12-
digit unique number Aadhaar is submitted.
Face recognition
The face authentication will be in addition to fingerprint or iris scans for Aadhaar authentication. In initial
phase, telecom service providers (TSPs) will be first to use face recognition to authenticate subscribers
while issuing new SIM cards. In later phases, it will be rolled out to all agencies using Aadhaar for
authentication in phases.
Significance
This move is aimed at curbing possibility of fingerprint cloning or spoofing and also seeks to tighten audit
process and security around the issuance and activation of mobile SIMs. It will also help to solve
authentication problem for those who have issues regarding fingerprint and iris scan. Fingerprints wear
out either with person’s old age or due to jobs such as heavy manual labour.
Directions to TSPs ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
UIDAI has directed TSPs to target at least 10% of their total monthly authentication transactions using
face authentication. Any shortfall in transactions using face authentication will be charged at Rs 0.20 per
transaction. It will be responsibility of TSPs to verify live photo captured using face authentication at their
backend system with photo received in eKYC (electronic know your customer) before activation of SIM.
TSP will store both photos in its database for audit purpose.
Former UN General Secretary Kofi Annan passes away
Former United Nations General Secretary and Nobel Peace Prize laureate Kofi Annan passed away in Bern,
Switzerland. He was 80. He had served as seventh Secretary-General of UN for two terms reigning from
1997 till 2006. He was first black African to become Secretary-General of UN and also the first to be
elected from UN staff itself.
About Kofi Annan
He was born on 8 April 1938 in Kumasi, Gold Coast (now Ghana). After completing his education, he had
joined UN in 1962 as Budget officer for World Health Organization (WHO) in 1962. He went on to work in
various capacities at UN, which included serving as Under-Secretary-General for UN Peacekeeping from
1992 to 96. Later he had served as UN Secretary-General for two terms reigning from 1997 till 2006 (He
was succeeded by South Korean diplomat Ban Ki-moon in 2007).
As the Secretary-General, he had reformed the UN bureaucracy. He was passionate advocate of human
rights and had played major role in the formation of two new intergovernmental bodies in 2005 within
UN: Peacebuilding Commission and Human Rights Council. He also had played pivotal role in creation of
Global Fund to fight AIDS, malaria, tuberculosis during his term at UN.
In 1999, he had launched UN Global Compact initiative, which is now world’s largest effort to promote
corporate social responsibility (CSR). He was also founder and chairman of Kofi Annan Foundation and
chairman of ‘The Elders’, an international organisation founded by Nelson Mandela. He was co-recipient of
2001 Nobel peace prize along with the United Nations. In September 2016, he was appointed to lead UN
commission to investigate Rohingya crisis in Myanmar’s Rakhine province.
Kofi Annan’s famous quotes
“Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress in every society, in
every family.”
“To live is to choose. But to choose well, you must know who you are and what you stand for, where you
want to go and why you want to get there.”
“More countries have understood that women’s equality is a prerequisite for development.”
18th Asian Games inaugurated in Jakarta, Indonesia
The 18th edition of Asian Games was inaugurated in Jakarta, Indonesia. This will be second time that
Indonesia will be hosting Asian Games. For first, it was held in Jakarta in 1962. Javelin Thrower Neeraj
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Chopra was India’s flag-bearer at the glittering opening ceremony.

Key Facts
This edition of pan-continental mega sporting event will be held from August 18 to September 2, 2018 in
two cities – Jakarta (capital of Indonesia) and Palembang (capital of Indonesia’s province of South
Sumatra) to accommodate all branches of sports. This will be the first time that the Asian Games will be
held in two cities.
It will see participation of around 11,000 athletes from 45 countries will compete in 40 sports, 67
disciplines, 4 new Olympic sports and 8 non-Olympic sports. For the first time, eSports (form of
competition using video games) and canoe polo will be contested as demonstration sports in Asian Games.
Indian contingent comprised of around 570 Indian athletes who will compete for top honours across 36
sports.
Mascots: Trio of Bhin Bhin (bird of paradise), Kaka (one horned rhino) and Atung (deer) are mascots of
2018 Asian Games. These three represent east, west and centre of country and they have dress traditional
to each locality.
Note: This edition of Asian Games was originally scheduled to be hosted by Vietnam in Hanoi, but it had
withdrawn its bid citing reason of economic considerations. Following Vietnam’s withdrawal, Indonesia
proposed to host 18th Asian Games.
Asian Games ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
It is pan-continental multi-sporting event held every four years between athletes from all over Asia. It is
also known as Asiad. It is second largest multi-sport event after Olympic Games. It is organised by
Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) since 1982, prior to that, it was regulated by Asian Games Federation (AGF).
The first Asian Games were held in New Delhi, India in 1951. Since then overall, nine nations have hosted it
and forty-six nations have participated in it, including Israel (now excluded from it after its last
participation in 1974). The 17th edition of games was hosted by Incheon, South Korea from in 2014. The
next games (19th edition) are scheduled to Hangzhou, China between 10 and 25 September 2022. India had
hosted Asian Games two times in 1951 (inaugural) and 1982, both in New Delhi.
August 20, 2018
Smart Anti Airfield Weapon successfully flight tested near Pokhran
The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has successfully tested indigenously
developed light weight glide bomb Smart Anti Airfield Weapon (SAAW) dropped from an Indian Air Force
(IAF) aircraft. Total of three tests with different release conditions and ranges were conducted at Chandan
range near Pokhran in Rajasthan.
Test Details: Total of three tests with eighth round of developmental trails with different release
conditions were conducted during 16 to 18 August 2018 and all the mission objectives have been achieved.
During the test, weapon system was integrated with live warhead. It successfully destroyed targets with
high precision.
Smart Anti Airfield Weapon (SAAW)
SAAW project is India’s first fully indigenous anti-airfield weapon project sanctioned by Government in
September 2013. It was indigenously developed by state-run Defence Research and Development
Organisation (DRDO) in collaboration with IAF and the Research Centre Imarat (RCI). It will be inducted
soon into the Armed Forces.
SAAW is long-range lightweight high precision-guided anti-airfield weapon. It is 120 kg smart weapon
capable of engaging ground targets with high precision up to range of 100 km. It is designed for deep
penetration with high degree of precision and is armed with high-explosive warhead, which is usually very
difficult to achieve operationally with simple gravity bombs.
It is meant to deal debilitating damage to ground infrastructure such as runways, taxi ways, aircraft
hangars and bunkers among other things. Depending on operational requirements, it can also be used
against other ground targets to give Indian forces enhanced area-denial capabilities, like taking out
ground infrastructure.
The guided bomb is considered to be one of the world-class weapons system. It is said to have higher
precision and much cheaper compared with missiles. It can be integrated into varied types of multi role
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fighter jets of IAF such as MiG, Sukhoi Su-30 and ground attack SEPECAT Jaguar. SAAW’s deep
penetration capabilities and high explosive warhead carrying capacity will enhance capability of IAF to
easily hit targets across border without putting pilot and aircraft at risk.
Anti-airfield weapons
They are critical in war-like scenarios, since they help to give debilitating blow to adversarial air forces.
These high-explosive warheads are meant to cause maximum damage possible to runways and other key
infrastructure, in way that prevents quick repair. If successful, attack using such bombs render airfield
useless, grounding all the war planes that are based at that air field.
S K Arora awarded WHO World No Tobacco Day 2017 Award
Delhi government’s additional director of health, SK Arora was awarded prestigious World Health
Organization (WHO) World No Tobacco Day 2017 Award for his extraordinary contribution towards
tobacco control. He was presented the award by Henk Bekedam, WHO India country head in New Delhi.
WHO World No Tobacco Day Award
It is awarded every year by WHO to individuals or organisations alike in each of six WHO regions for their
accomplishments in the area of tobacco control. This awards includes WHO Director-General Special
Recognition Awards, World No Tobacco Day Awards. World No Tobacco Day is observed around the
world every year on 31 May. It is intended to encourage 24-hour period of abstinence from all forms of
tobacco consumption around the globe. ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Tobacco prevalence in Delhi
Delhi government’s health department for the past four years has been fighting against direct
advertisement of brand promotion of tobacco and surrogate advertisement of tobaccos in name of pan
masala and other eatables such as tea, ilaichi (cardamom).
National Health Policy (NHP) 2017 of Central Government has set targets of relative reduction in tobacco
prevalence by: 15% by 2020, 30 % by 2025. Delhi has already achieved these targets before 2017. Tobacco
prevalence in Delhi has come down by 6.5% in the past six years which is more than rest of India average
figures.
According to Global Adult Tobacco Survey-2 (GATS 2) 2016-17, prevalence of tobacco use has reduced by
27% in Delhi as compared to 17% for the rest of India average. Similarly, current tobacco smokers in Delhi
have reduced by 35% as compared to 23% for the rest of India average. The current gutkha users have also
significantly reduced by 63% in Delhi as compared to rest of India average figures of just 17%. For
cessation modalities also Delhi has performed much better than rest of India average figures.
ATGM HELINA successfully test fired at Pokhran range
Indigenously developed Helicopter launched Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) ‘HELINA’ was successfully
flight tested from Indian Army Helicopter at Pokhran range. The weapon system was tested for its full
range.
About Test: ATGM HELINA weapon system was released smoothly from Army Helicopter. After its
launch it tracked target all through its course and hit it with high precision.
HELINA
HELINA is helicopter launched version known of NAG ATGM, designed and developed indigenously for
Indian Army under integrated guided missile development programme (IGMDP). It is manufactured by
India’s sole missile producer, state-owned Bharat Dynamics Limited. HELINA is one of the most advanced
Anti-Tank Weapons in the world. It works on “fire and forget” principle and operates in Lock on Before
Launch mode. It has operational range of 7-10km (after air-launched). It is equipped with highly advanced
Imaging Infrared Radar (IIR) seeker along with integrated avionics. This technology is possessed by very
few nations. It also possesses advanced passive homing guidance system. It has been designed mainly to
destroy modern main battle tanks and other heavily armoured targets.
Pitch Black 2018 Exercise concludes in Australia
Pitch Black – 18 (PB-18), biennia multinational air exercise hosted by Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF)
concluded recently Darwin, Australia. It was the largest Pitch Black ever conducted by Australia, which
saw participation of 16 nations and more than 140 aircraft, the current edition.
India’s Participation: In this edition of exercise, Indian Air Force (IAF) for the first time participated with
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air assets and in earlier exercises it had participated as observer. IAF contingent consisted of 145 air-
warriors including IAF Commandos team, Garuds, four Su-30 MKI, one C-130 and one C-17 for logistic
support for induction and de-induction.
Pitch Black – 18
The objectives of this exercise were to foster closer relationship between participating friendly forces and
promote interoperability through exchange of knowledge and experience. Its aim was to expose
participating nations to operational environment in international scenarios.
It comprised of two phases. During first phase, forces flew basic missions with aim to get to same working
platform. Subsequently in second phase, missions involved larger packages and undertook simulated air
combat exercises in near realistic environment and exchanged best practices towards for enhancing
operational capability.
During the exercise, IAF for the first time conducted various day and night operations. It also provided it
unique opportunity for exchange of knowledge and experience with participating nations in dynamic
warfare environment.
Pitch Black Exercise
It is a biennial warfare exercise hosted by Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). It is normally held in
Northern Australia, primarily at RAAF Bases Darwin and Tindal. The first Pitch Black exercises took place
in 1981 between different RAAF units. Later
ramkishanin 1990,
gugulotu it began as training
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | exercise between Australia and
Singapore and then was expanded as multilateral exercises by inviting international air forces with which
Australia has defence ties. The aim of exercise is to practice Offensive Counter Air (OCA) and Defensive
Counter Air (DCA) combat, in simulated war environment. It traditionally consists of red team and blue
team based at separate locations, with one attacking other.
Exercise Maitree 2018: India, Thailand joint military exercise concludes
Joint platoon level military exercise Maitree 2018 between India and Thailand was conducted in Thailand
from 6 to 19 August 2018. It was platoon level exercise between Indian Army and Royal Thai Army that
comprised of infantry component.
Maitree 2018
The exercise had started with cross training period involving familiarization training between two armies
to evolve drills and procedures involved in counter insurgency & counter terrorist operations in urban,
rural and jungle terrain under United Nations (UN) mandate.
It focused on familiarizing with each other’s modus operandi, basic maneuvers and evolving joint drills. It
also included practicing of various drills ad tactical scenarios in counter insurgency environment,
execution of tactical operations like search and destroy operation, house intervention and survival
techniques. It culminated with 72 hour joint exercise on planning and execution of series of tactical
operations like pursuit, raid, establishing military check post and cordon and search operations.
Significance
The Maitree 2018 immensely benefitted both armies from each other’s expertise and experience in
conduct of tactical level counter terrorist operations. It also helped in enhancing cooperation between two
armies and bonhomie between troops. It also laid due emphasis on increasing interoperability between
forces from both countries which is considered crucial for success of any joint operation.
World Humanitarian Day: 19 August
The World Humanitarian Day (WHD) is observed every year on 19 August to recognize work of
humanitarian personnel and those who have lost their lives. The observance of the day provides
opportunity to celebrate spirit that inspires humanitarian work around globe. It pays tribute to aid
workers who risk their lives in humanitarian service and also to rally support for people affected by crisis
around the world.
The campaign theme for this year is #NotATarget. It aims to draw attention towards the millions of
innocent civilians affected by armed conflict every day, who are forced to flee or hide due to conflicts and
wars around the world. This year’s campaign demands world leaders to do everything in their power to
protect all civilians in conflict
Background
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The World Humanitarian Day was instituted by United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) by passing a
resolution A/63/L.49 in 2008.The resolution was sponsored by Sweden and was passed by UNGA on
Strengthening of Coordination of Emergency Assistance of the UN. The day marks death of then Special
Representative of Secretary-General to Iraq, Sérgio Vieira de Mello and 21 of his colleagues who were
killed in bombing of the UN Headquarters in Baghdad on August 19, 2003. Since 2009, this day is observed
annually by humanitarian community to ensure safety and security of humanitarian aid workers and for
the survival, well-being and dignity of people affected by crisis.
Panini language laboratory inaugurated in Mauritius to promote Hindi
Panini language laboratory was recently inaugurated at Mahatma Gandhi institute in Mauritius to
promote reading and writing Hindi amongst young and its further development. It was launched by
External Affairs minister Sushma Swaraj on the sidelines of 11th World Hindi Conference held in
Mauritius.
Panini language laboratory
Panini language lab aims to promote reading and writing Hindi amongst young generation and its further
development. It will serve as medium to generate more interest in learning Hindi amongst youngsters
thereby strengthening language. It has been established in Mauritius with support from Indian External
Affairs Ministry.
The lab has 35 computers and equipments along with advanced software of various Indian languages
installed by Indian IT professionals to aid students of junior, middle and high schools to imbibe new
techniques of language learning and getting them acquainted with four language mantras–hearing,
prounciation, reading and writing through easy and scientific ways.
Telangana Government launches Disaster Response Force in Hyderabad
Telangana Government for the first time has launched Disaster Response Force (DRF) vehicles in the
capital city of Hyderabad. The main aim to start this DRF is that state should have its own Disaster force
to swiftly deal with emergency situations.
DRF vehicles provided to this force will be parked at 24 locations with Greater Hyderabad Municipal
Corporation (GHMC). It will help DRF staff to reach the emergency spots in no time.
Disaster Response Force (DRF)
It is state level dedicated disaster force trained in tackling of urban flooding, tree falls, structural collapses
and any other site of normal emergencies. Its disaster management personal will be available on the field
for 24/7. DRF personnel are capable to work continuously during emergencies and conduct first aid. It has
been first brought on to ground with 120 personal with 8 specialised vehicles and other equipment’s
which are required. State Government will soon increase number of DRF vehicles, equipments and all
other special apparatuses that are required.
Wrestler Bajrang Punia wins India’s first gold medal at 2018 Asian Games
Wrestler Bajrang Punia (24) won India’s first gold medal at the 18th edition of the Asian Games held in
Jakarta, Indonesia. In the men’s freestyle 65 kg final event, he defeated Japan’s Takatani Daichi by 11-8
score. It was Bajrang’s maiden gold medal and overall second medal in Asian Games after he had earlier
won silver medal in 2014 Asian Games (Incheon, South Korea) in the men’s freestyle 61 kg category.
Bajrang Punia
Bajrang is a freestyle wrestler from India. He hails from Haryana. At present, he is India’s fastest, most
powerful and focussed grappler. He works as Traveling Ticket Examiner (TTE) with Indian Railway. Ahead
of 2018 Asian Games, he had won three consecutive international gold medals – Commonwealth Games
(Gold Coast), Tbilisi Grand Prix (Georgia) and Yasar Dogu International (Istanbul). In 2013, he had won
bronze medal (third place) in World Championships held Budapest (Hungary) in 60 kg freestyle category.
Note: Apurvi Chandela and Ravi Kumar were first Indian athletes to win medals in 2018 Asian Games. Both had
won bronze medal in mixed team rifle shooting event.
Home Ministry notifies new SoPS for refilling of ATMs
Union Home Ministry has issued new Standard Operating Procedures (SoPs) for cash refilling of
automated teller machines (ATMs) after certain time period. It comes in view of rising incidents of attacks
on cash vans, cash vaults, ATM frauds and other internal frauds leading to increased sense of insecurity. It
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will come into effect from 8 February 2019. There are over 8,000 privately owned cash vans operating
across country, operated by non-bank private agencies, and they handle over Rs. 15,000 crore daily on
behalf of banks.
Features of new SoPs
It sets deadline of replenishing cash in ATMs before 9pm in cities and 6pm in rural areas. In case of Naxal-
hit districts notified by central government, e deadline will be 4pm. It makes mandatory on private
agencies handling these operations to collect money from banks in first half of the day and transport them
in armoured vehicles.
The agencies should provide private security for cash transportation with requisite number of trained
staff. Every cash van must have one driver, two armed security guards, two ATM officers or custodians.
One armed guard must sit in front along with driver and another in rear portion of van during transit. The
cash van should not carry cash of more than Rs. 5 crore per trip. Each of cash boxes shall be secured to
floor with separate chains and locks that can be opened only by using separate keys kept with different
custodians.
During loading or unloading of cash, nature’s call, tea or lunch break, at least one armed security guard
should remain present with cash van at all times. The eligible ex-serviceman must be preferably appointed
for providing security for cash transportation.
No private security agency should appoint anyone for cash transportation with verification of person
including police, Aadhaar and residence verifications, previous employer check, credit history check and
fidelity insurance. Every cash transportation operation should be carried out only in secured cash vans
fitted with GPS tracking device.
The cash van shall be provided with small CCTV system with at least five days recording facility and three
cameras installed in front, rear and inside of cabin. The cash van shall be equipped with hooter, fire
extinguishers and emergency lights to ensure quick reaction in case of attack. It should also be equipped
with security alarm with GSM based auto-dialer along with motorised siren.
Private security agency should carry out cash handling, including counting, sorting, and bundling
activities shall in secured premises in accordance with specific guidelines. These premises should be
designed to include two physically independent areas, one for general office purpose and other for secured
cash processing and handling activities. It should also accommodate space for cash deposit, collection,
sorting, counting and delivery and dispatch on secured cash vans.
August 21, 2018
Rishabh Pant becomes fourth Indian wicket-keeper to take five catches on Test debut
Rishabh Pant became fourth Indian wicket-keeper to take five catches on Test debut during the second
day of the third Test against England. Pant who became India’s 291st Test player, achieved this feat by
taking catches of Alastair Cook, Keaton Jennings, Ollie Pope, Chris Woakes and Adil Rashid in England’s
first innings.
Key Facts
With this feat, Rishabh Pant joins club of other Indian wicket-keepers who have taken five catches on Test
debut. They are Naren Tamhane (vs Pakistan in 1955), Kiran More (vs England in 1986) and Naman Ojha
(vs Sri Lanka in 2015). It also makes him Pant first Asian wicket-keeper and third in the world to take five
catches in an innings on Test debut. Other two international wicket-keepers who achieved this feat are B
Taber (vs South Africa, 1966) and J MacLean ( vs Brisbane, 1978).
Vinesh Phogat: First Indian woman to win gold medal at 2018 Asian Games
Wrester Vinesh Phogat (23) became first Indian women athlete to win gold medal at the Asian Games 2018
held in Jakarta, Indonesia. She achieved this feat, by defeating Yuki Irie of Japan by 6-2 score final of the
women’s wrestling in the 50kg category. With this, she also became first Indian woman wrestler to win
gold medal at 2018 Asian Games. It also makes her only woman wrestler to win two medals in back-to-
back Asian Games. She had earlier won Bronze medal in 2014 Asian Games held in Incheon, South Korea
(in 48 kg category).
This was India’s second Gold medal after start of Asian Games in Jakarta. First was won by wrestler Bajrang Punia in
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the men’s freestyle 65 kg final event.
Vinesh Phogat
She hails from Haryana. She comes from successful family background of wrestling. Her cousins Geeta
Phogat and Babita Kumari are both international wrestlers and Commonwealth Games medalists (Hindi
biographical film Dangal was loosely based on them). She also had won back-to-back gold medals in 2014
Glasgow (in 48 kg category and 2018 Gold Coast (50 kg) Commonwealth Games.
5 northern states and 2 UTs to set up centralised secretariat at Panchkula to tackle drug menace
Five northern states Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand and Union territories of
and Delhi and Chandigarh have decided to set up centralised secretariat at Panchkula (Haryana) to tackle
the drug menace. It was decided at in inter-State regional conference of Chief Ministers organised in
Chandigarh by Haryana government on issue of “Drug menace, challenges and strategies”.
Key Facts
The conference was was attended by Chief Ministers Manohar Lal Khattar (Haryana), Amarinder Singh
(Punjab) and Trivendra Singh Rawat (Uttarakhand). Himachal Pradesh counterpart Jairam Thakur
attended it through videoconferencing. It decided to set centralised secretariat at Panchkula which will
host nodal officers from each of these northern states and UTs. These officers will be deputed for sharing
intelligence and information. It aims to have mechanism for quick and proactive information exchange on
drug trends, cases registered and persons named, wanted or arrested. It will host monthly meeting of
special task forces and quarterly meetings at level of Home Secretaries to build inter-agency trust to break
and demolish the supply chains to tackle the drug menace.
Health Ministry notifies new sets of specified health warnings for all tobacco product packs
Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has notified new sets of specified health warnings for all
tobacco product packs. In this regard, it has made amendments in Cigarettes and other Tobacco Products
(Packaging and Labeling) Rules, 2008. The amended rules will be applicable w.e.f. 1st September 2018.
Background
Union Health Ministry maintains pictorial health warnings on packs of tobacco products are most cost-
effective tool for educating people on the health risks of tobacco use. The warning on all packs of tobacco
products have tobacco causes cancer and tobacco causes painful death written in white on red background
accompanied with quitline number. Study conducted by National Council of Applied Economic Research
(NCAER) had found that about 46% of illiterate men smoke, whereas only 16% of college graduates are
hooked to tobacco.
Features of new rules
Under it, Government has released two separate set of images. The first set will be used on tobacco
products from September 1, 2018 for period of 1 year, whereas second set of images will be used from
September 1, 2019. Besides, images quit line number is also pertinent feature of new warning. It mandates
packaging to display “Quit Today Call” number which is online on-call assistance facility launched for
those people seeking support to quit use of tobacco products.
The new rules also mandates all people engaged directly or indirectly in production, supply, import or
distribution of cigarettes or any tobacco products to ensure that all tobacco product packages have the
specified health warnings exactly as prescribed. Violation of above provision will be punishable offence
with imprisonment or fine as prescribed in Section 20 of Cigarettes and Other Tobacco Products (Prohibition
of Advertisement and Regulation of Trade and Commerce, Production, Supply and Distribution) Act, 2003.
IIT Kharagpur to set up Re-Water Research Center
Indian Instituted of Technology (IIT)-Kharagpur has decided to set up Re-Water Research Center to
replenish and rejuvenate water resources. It will be seed-funded by two alumni members – Aneesh Reddy
& Aditya Choubey and named after them as Aditya Choubey Center for Re-Water Research.
Re-Water Research Center
The purpose of this centre will be to tackle challenge of resolving two burning issues faced by urban India
– sewage disposal and access to clean potable water. It will network with government bodies to take up
technology developed by it and process and meet the water challenge faced by various cities.
IIT-Kharagpur will set up an on-campus plant which will convert 1.35 million litre of sewage water from
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the hostels to 1.2 million litre of potable water on daily basis. The project aims to attract potential
entrepreneurs and government agencies to take up sewage treatment atlarge scale and with business
model for banks to gain confidence in funding such businesses. The pilot plant is expected to be ready by
March 2019.
Gopalkrishna Gandhi conferred with 2018 Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award
Former West Bengal Governor Gopalkrishna Gandhi was conferred with 2018 Rajiv Gandhi National
Sadbhavana Award. He was presented award in New Delhi on occasion of 74th birth anniversary of former
Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi.
Gopalkrishna Gandhi
Born on 22 April 1945. He is grandson of Father of Nation Mahatma Gandhi. He is retired IAS officer
(Tamil Nadu cadre) and also had served as diplomat. He was 22nd Governor of West Bengal serving from
2004 to 2009. As former IAS officer, he had served as Secretary to President of India (1987-1992). He had
served as India’s High Commissioner to South Africa and Sri Lanka and also held other important
administrative and diplomatic posts. He was United Progressive Alliance (UPA) nominee for 2017 Vice
President of India election and lost with 244 votes against NDA candidate Venkaiah Naidu, who recieved
516 votes.
Rajiv Gandhi National Sadbhavana Award
It is awarded every year on persons for outstanding
ramkishan contribution
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | towards promotion of communal
harmony, national integration and peace. It was instituted in 1992 by All India Congress Committee of
Indian National Congress Party (INC) to commemorate the lasting contribution made by former Prime
Minister Rajiv Gandhi. The award carries citation and cash award of Rs. ten lakhs. It is given on 20 August
(birth anniversary of Rajiv Gandhi observed as), which is celebrated as Sadbhavna Diwas (Harmony Day).
Former recipients of award include Mother Teresa, Ustad Bismillah Khan, Lata Mangeshkar, Mohammed
Yunus, Sunil Dutt, Kapila Vatsyayan, Dilip Kumar, Teesta Setalvad, Swami Agnivesh, K.R. Narayanan,
Ustad Amjad Ali Khan, Muzaffar Ali and Shubha Mudgal. In 2017, it was awarded to Former Cricketer
Mohammad Azharuddin and Retired IAS Officer M.Gopala Krishna.
Former Army General Dalbir Singh Suhag awarded Legion of Merit by US Government
United States Government has awarded Legion of Merit (Degree of Commander) to General Dalbir Singh
Suhag (Retired) of Indian Army. The award was given to Singh for his exceptionally meritorious service as
Chief of Army Staff (CoAS) from August 2014 to December 2016. With this, he becomes second Indian to get
this award, first being General Rajendrasinghji Jadeja in 1946.
Key Facts
The award commended his leadership for Indian Army’s counterinsurgency and counterterrorism
operations and its humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) during Nepal earthquake in 2015.
He was also lauded for sustaining Indian Army contributions to United Nations global peacekeeping as
one of world’s largest provider of forces to UN. Notably, India-US Army to Army bilateral engagements,
improved interoperability and close functional cooperation expanded during Gen Dalbir Singh’s tenure as
chief of Indian Army.
Background
The Legion of Merit to General Dalbir Singh was announced by US Government in March 2016 when he
was in chair as Chief of Army Staff, with intention of conferring award to him during his official visit to US
in April 2016. However, due to procedural delays in obtaining necessary government sanction for award
presentation had resulted in this not being presented during his official visit. General Dalbir Singh
subsequently had retired from service in December 2016.
Note
Article 18 (4) of Constitution (Abolition of titles): It says that no person holding any office of profit or trust under
State shall, without consent of President, accept any present, emolument, or office of any kind from or under any
foreign State.
Legion of Merit
It is military award of United States Armed Forces given for exceptionally meritorious conduct in
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performance of outstanding services and achievements. It is awarded to members of the seven uniformed
services of the United States as well as to military and political figures of foreign governments. It is
awarded in four degrees; Degree of Chief Commander; Degree of Commander; Degree of Officer; and Degree of
Legionnaire. Its degrees and design were influenced by the French Legion of Honour (Légion d’honneur).
US Congress Act (Public Law 671—77th Congress, Chapter 508, 2d Session) allows US President award to
Legion of Merit personnel armed forces of friendly foreign nations for their exceptionally meritorious
conduct in the performance of outstanding services.
India wins bronze medal in Men’s Sepak Takraw at 2018 Asian Games
India won bronze medal in Men’s Sepak Takraw event at 2018 Jakarta Palembang Asian Games in
Indonesia. It was India’s maiden medal in Sepak Takraw sporting event. In the semifinal match of event,
Indian team lost to defending champion Thailand by 0-2 score. In its first match of the event, India had
defeated Iran 21-16, 19-21, 21- 17.However it had lost to Indonesia (0-3 score) in the second Preliminary
Group B match of day but still advanced to last-four stage and won bronze medal.
Sepak takraw
Sepak takraw (kick volleyball) is traditional sport of countries Southeast Asia. It has similarities like
Volleyball which is played with hand but sepak takraw is played with the feet, knee, head and chest. Sepak
takraw has been part of Asian Games since 11th edition in Beijing 1990. There are four types of sepak
takraw games for men and women – circle, double regu, regu and team. Thailand is traditionally the most
dominating country in Asia.

Sepak takraw match is played by two regus (teams) each made up of three players who must take across
wicker or plastic balls onto the pitch field. Its field is sized 13.4 x 6.1 meters and are separated by net which
has high of 152 cm (men) or 142 cm (women).
The regus serving first, starts first set and side that wins first set has option of choosing service (first
service decided by toss). As soon as the Tekong (player) kicks ball all players are allowed to move freely in
their respective courts. The service is valid if ball passes over net and inside boundary lines of opponent,
whether it touches the net or not. The point is awarded when either serving or receiving side commits
fault serving next ball.
September 2018 will be observed National Nutrition Month
Union Ministry of Women and Child Development has announced to observe September 2018 as the
National Nutrition Month to mark the country’s fight against malnutrition. The month-long intensive
campaign will be undertaken with an aim of reaching every household with message of nutrition — ‘har
ghar poshan tyohar’ (every house a celebration of nutrition).
National Nutrition Month
It will promote antenatal care, breastfeeding, fight anemia, convey messages about importance of
nutrition for girls and right age of marriage, deliver messages about importance of growth monitoring
and also promote hygiene and sanitation. It will be jointly organised by NITI Ayog, Ministries of Women
and Child Development (WCD), Health and Family Welfare, Panchayati Raj, Rural Development, Drinking
Water and Sanitation, Housing and Urban Affairs, Human Resources Development (HRD), Information and
Broadcasting, Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Tribal Affairs, Minority Affairs and AYUSH.
Background
India has very high burden of malnutrition. According to National Family Health Survey-4 (NFHS-4), 38.%
of India’s children aged less than 5 years are stunted (less height for their age), 21% are wasted (less weight
for their height) and 35.7% are underweight. Between 2005-06 (when NFHS-3 was conducted) and 2015-16
(when NFHS-4 was conducted) the percentage of wasted children went up from 19.8% to 21% and
percentage of severely wasted children went up from 6.4% to 7.5%. India also ranks low 100th out of 119
countries on 2017 Global Hunger Index (GHI) and was placed at high end of “serious” category in GHI
severity scale, owing mainly to fact that one in every five children under age 5 is “wasted” (low weight for
height). Government already has embarked on Rs 9000-crore to Poshan Abhiyan (National Nutrition
Mission) to fight malnutrition. It was launched in March 2018. The mission targets to reduce stunting,
under-nutrition, anaemia (among young children, women and adolescent girls) and reduce low birth
weight. The target of mission is to bring down stunting among children up to age of six years from 38.4%
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to 25% by 2022.
World Mosquito Day: August 20
The World Mosquito Day is observed every year on August 20 to raise awareness about the causes of
malaria. The observance of the day seeks to created awareness to prevent and also to fundraise for
research into the cure of malaria.
Background
World Mosquito Day also marks groundbreaking discovery of British doctor, Sir Ronald Ross when he had
identified link between mosquitoes and malaria way back in in 1897. He had found that female Anopheles
mosquitoes transmit malaria between humans. This discovery had laid foundations for scientists across
world to better understand the deadly role of mosquitoes in disease transmission and come up with
effective innovative interventions. Sir Ross is responsible for annual observance of World Mosquito Day,
which was declared shortly after his discovery.
Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are small, midge-like flies that constitute the family Culicidae. They have been around for over
hundred million years now and diseases caused and spread by them leads to loss of several lives. There are
over 3,500 species of mosquitoes have already been described. They are generally divided into two
subfamilies, Anophelinae and Culicinae which in turn comprise some 43 genera.
Female mosquitoes are ectoparasites, whose ramkishantube-like mouthparts| (called a proboscis) pierce hosts’ skin to
consume blood for its own survival. Many species of mosquitoes are vectors of diseases. In passing from
host to host, some transmit extremely harmful infections such as malaria, yellow fever, Chikungunya,
West Nile virus, dengue fever, filariasis, Zika virus and other arboviruses.
Mosquitoes are most deadliest animal in the world, as around 6 million deaths every decade occur due to
vector borne diseases transmitted by it. Deadliest among them are Malaria (transmitted through bites of
infected female Anopheles mosquitoes), Dengue (transmitted by Aedes aegypti mosquito), Zika virus (also
transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes), Chikungunya (spreads through bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito) and
Yellow fever (infected mosquitoes of Aedes species).
August 22, 2018
SC scraps use of option in Rajya Sabha elections
Supreme Court scrapped use of NOTA (none of the above) option for Rajya Sabha elections, saying it
defeats fairness in indirect elections, destroys democratic values and serves as Satan of defection and
corruption. The ruling was given by three judges bench of SC comprising of Chief Justice of India Dipak
Misra, Justices A M Khanwilkar and D Y Chandrachud. It came on petition by Shailesh Parmar, who was
Congress chief whip in Gujarat, challenging EC decision to allow NOTA in Rajya Sabha polls.
SC Prnouncement
It quashed June 2014 notification of Election Commission that allowed use of NOTA option in Rajya Sabha
elections. It held that NOTA will destroy concept of value of vote and representation, and encourage
defection that shall open doors for corruption which is malignant disorder.
It said that introduction of NOTA in indirect elections may on first glance, tempt intellect but on keen
scrutiny, as it falls to ground and completely ignores role of elector in such election and fully destroys
democratic value. NOTA practical application defeats fairness ingrained in indirect election.
It held that choice of NOTA will have negative impact in voting process of Rajya Sabha where open ballot
is permissible and secrecy of voting has no room and discipline of political parties matters. Though
elector, in Rajya Sabha has single vote and has quantified value of his vote and transferable surplus votes.
But there is existence of formula for determining value of vote which has different connotation.
Background
NOTA was introduced in Lok Sabha polls (direct election) by Election Commission of India (ECI) following
2013 Supreme Court decision. It was extended to Rajya Sabha election (i.e. indirect elections) via
notification in January 2014. Thereafter, biennial elections to 76 Rajya Sabha seats across 21 states in 2014,
8 seats across three states in 2015, 70 seats across 21 states in 2016, 10 seats across three states in 2017,
and 58 seats across 16 states in 2018 have been held. NOTA option was provided on ballot paper after
name of the last candidate in each of these biennial elections held since 2014. Election Commission in apex
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court had justified its decision of introducing NOTA in Rajya Sabha elections, mentioning that it did not
make any distinction between direct and indirect elections.
Government designates NCRB to curb online child pornography and sexual violence
Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has designated National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB) as nodal
authority to curb online child pornography, sexual violence and rape videos. It was decided by high-level
meeting to discuss recommendations on ways to curb “sexual violence” videos involving women and
children.
Key Facts
NCRB can act on such online child pornography, sexual violence and rape videos content either on the
basis of complaints or by taking suo motu cognizance. It also has been mandated to launch online portal
for receiving complaints and acting on them. The powers were delegated to NCRD under section 79 of
Information Technology Act, 2000 to perform the functions under clause (b) of sub-section (3) of section
79 of IT Act, 2000 and to notify the instance as per the order issued.
Background
The meeting was convened ahead of upcoming hearing before Supreme Court on plea by NGO Prajwala
highlighting availability of child porn and rape videos online while seeking measures to check this. The
meeting was chaired by Home Minister Rajnath Singh and attended by Electronics and IT Minister Ravi
Shankar Prasad, NSA Ajit Doval, Director of |Intelligence
ramkishan gugulotu Bureau.
ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | In this meeting, ways to filter
objectionable materials, including rape videos on laptops and smartphones were discussed. It was also
decided to share list of 500 key words used in searching such child porn and rape videos with Internet
Service Providers (ISPs), including Google, Yahoo, Facebook, WhatsApp and Microsoft.
National Crime Records Bureau (NCRB)
NCRB is nodal agency under Home Ministry for authentic source of data on crime on various parameters
including accidents, suicides from across all the states of the country and prisons for policy matters and
research. It was established on 11 March 1986 as the central police organisation. It is headquartered in
New Delhi. It is implementing and monitoring agency of Crime & Criminal Tracking Network System
(CCTNS), a Mission Mode Project under National e-Governance Plan of Government. It also imparts
training in Information Technology (IT) and Finger Print Science for Indian Police Officers as well Foreign
Police officers. It publishes 4 annual publications on Crime, Prison Statistics, Accidental Deaths & Suicides
and Finger Prints. These publications serve as principal reference points on crime statistics.
World Senior Citizens Day: 21 August
The World Senior Citizens Day is celebrated every year on 21 August across the world raise awareness of
the condition of elder people and support them through the process of senescence. This day is observed to
raise awareness about factors and issues affecting older people, such as deterioration with age and
examine issues that affect their lives such as abuse of elderly people. It is also recognizes and appreciates
contributions that older people make to society. It calls for welfare of elder persons to enroll and
appreciate their achievements and involvement in the society to get promoted from their ability and
knowledge.
Background
The day was officially established by former president of United States Ronald Reagan after he had signed
Proclamation on August 19, 1988, declaring August 21 as National Senior Citizens Day in US. Other
countries later adopted the day to pay respect to the elderly community. Later United Nations General
Assembly on 14th of December 1990 proclaimed to observe 21 August as World Senior Citizens Day.
Government to set up Cyclone Warning Centre in Kerala
Union Ministry of Earth Sciences has announced to set up Cyclone Warning Centre in Kerala’s capital
Thiruvananthapuram. It also proposed to set up C-band Doppler weather radar at Mangalore, Karnataka.
This comes in view of recent heavy rainfall and concerns over extreme weather activities in future.
Cyclone Warning Centre
The centre will be equipped with state- of-the-art infrastructure including forecasting tools to provide
daily weather alerts, issue weather warnings and coastal warnings or bulletins (for fishermenetc). It is
expected to be functional within a month and will cater to the needs of Kerala and Karnataka states. It will
further strengthen tpresent forecasting activity in India Meteorological Department’s existing office in
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Thiruvananthapuram.
At present, IMD has six cyclone warning centres, four along east coast at Chennai (Tamil Nadu), Visakhapatnam
(Andhra Pradesh), Bhubaneswar (Odisha) and Kolkata (West Bengal), and two along west coast at Ahmedabad
(Gujarat) and Mumbai (Maharashtra).
C-band Doppler weather radar

It is proposed to be set up at Mangalore, Karnataka to provide nowcast alerts for severe weather, including
thunderstorms triggered by heavy rain for the next 2-3 hours. This radar will cover northern Kerala and
Karnataka. It is expected to be installed by the end of next year. Currently, there are two Doppler radars in
Kerala at Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, which cover central and southern districts, respectively. With
addition of this new radar, entire state will be covered for monitoring rainfall and severe weather events.
HAL becomes first PSU to transact on TReDS Platform
State-owned aerospace and defence manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) became the first public
sector enterprise (PSU) to make transaction on RXIL TReDS platform. It executed its first digitised invoice
discounting transaction on RXIL TReDS platform by accepting digital invoice uploaded by Nasik-based
MSME (micro category) vendor Narendra Udyog. This transaction was financed by Bank of Baroda.
RXIL- TReDS platform
TReDS is online electronic institutionalramkishan
mechanism for facilitating
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | the financing of trade receivables of
micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) through multiple financiers. RXIL is India’s first TReDS
platform operating since January 2017. It promoted by National Stock Exchange (NSE), Small Industries
Development Bank of India (SIDBI), State Bank of India (SBI), ICICI Bank and Yes Bank. It enables MSMEs
to gain control of their receivables with enhanced visibility and timeliness. In October 2017, Union
Government had mandated all major PSUs to join TReDS platform to facilitate payments to MSME (micro,
small and medium enterprises) vendors.
President appoints Governors of seven states
President Ram Nath Kovind appointed Governors of seven states including Bihar, Haryana, Uttarakhand,
Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, Meghalaya, and Tripura by exercising his authority under Article 156. The
appointments will be effective from the dates the incumbents take charge of their respective offices.
New Governors
Satya Pal Malik: He is former Governor of Bihar who was transferred to Jammu and Kashmir (J&K). It
makes hi, first careered politician to be appointed as Governor of J&K in 51 years. He succeeds N Vohra,
who has been serving this post since 2008.
Lal Ji Tandon: He was has been appointed as new Governor of Bihar. He was MLA in Uttar Pradesh
Legislative Council for two terms (1978-84). He was elected MLA from Lucknow West for three terms from
1996 to 2009. He was close confidant of former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee.
Ganga Prasad: He was appointed as the new Governor of Sikkim. He is former Governor of Meghalaya. He
was member of Bihar legislative council for 18 years. He is former leader of Opposition in Bihar Assembly.
He was businessman by profession, and had started his political career as Jan Sangh member in 1967.
Tathagata Roy: He was transferred as new Governor of Meghalaya. He was earlier the Governor of
Tripura. He was BJP’s West Bengal unit President from 2002 to 2006. He had started his political career
in 1990. He was part of Calcutta Metro railway project and had designed Calcutta Metro.
Kaptan Singh Solanki: He was appointed as new Governor of Tripura. Prior to this, he was Governor of
Haryana. He is former Rajya Sabha member and was appointed as the Governor of Haryana in 2014. He
was elected to Rajya Sabha in August 2009.
Satyadev Narayan Arya: He was appointed as the new Governor of Haryana. He is prominent Dalit leader
from Nalanda, Arya. He was eight-term MLA from Bihar. He was cabinet minister in 2010 BJP-JDU
Government in state.
Baby Rani Maurya: She has been made the new Governor of Uttarakhand. She is former Agra mayor and
ex-member of National Commission for Women (NCW). She was BJP leader from Agra.
Constitutional provisions of Governor
Article 153: It says that there shall be Governor for each state. 7th Constitutional Amendment Act, 1956
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facilitated appointment of the same person as governor for two or more states.
Article 156: It says that Governor is appointed by President of India for a term of five years (But Governor
usually holds office during pleasure of President.
Kowsar: Iran unveils first domestically manufactured fighter jet

Iran has unveiled first domestically manufactured fighter jet nicknamed Kowsar. It was unveiled at
defence show held in the capital city of Tehran.
Kowsar
It is fourth-generation fighter with advanced avionics and multi-purpose radar. It was 100% indigenously
made in Iran. Its name Kowsar means river in paradise in Islam and also title of chapter in Koran. It is dual-
cockpit, single engine jet with single tail fin.
It resembles US-made F-5F Tiger (first flew in 1974), which is variant of 1950s-era US Northrop F-5 fighter
that is a long-time mainstay of Iranian Air Force. It can be used for short aerial support missions. It is
equipped with systems that promote precision targeting.
Background
Iran’s functional air force has been limited to perhaps as few as few dozen strike aircraft either Russian or
ageing US models including F-5s that were acquired before 1979 Iranian revolution. Iran has unveiled
several new fighter jets in last few years.ramkishan
In 2013,
gugulotu | it had unveiled |domestically built fighter jet Qahar-313,
ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
which was compared to US F-22 and F-35.

Saurabh Chaudhary wins India’s first gold medal in shooting event at Asian Games
Shooter Saurabh Chaudhary (16) won gold medal in Men’s 10m Air Pistol event with record score of 240.7
at 2018 Jakarta Palembang Asian Games in Indonesia. For first time he was competing senior event and
won gold medal in Asian Games debut. It was India’s first shooting gold in ongoing event. Another Indian
shooter, Abhishek Verma (29) also won bronze medal in the same event. In Men’s 50-metres Rifle 3
Positions event, India’s Sanjeev Rajput won silver medal.
Saurabh Chaudhary
He hails from Kalina village in Meerut, Uttar Pradesh. He is son of farmer. Started shooting atage of 15 in
Meerut. He was trained with senior shooters in the run-up to the 2018 Asian Games. He had won gold
medal while setting new World record at the ISSF Junior World Cup in Germany in June 2018. He will
participate in 2018 Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires, Argentina in October 2018. He had won gold medal
with junior world record at 10th Asia Youth Olympic Games qualification event in December 2017.
August 23, 2018
Rahi Sarnobat becomes first Indian woman shooter to win gold medal at 2018 Asian Games
Rahi Sarnobat became first Indian woman to win shooting gold medal at Jakarta-Palembang 2018 Asian
Games in 25m pistol event. She shot score of 34 in final to tie with Thailand’s Naphaswan Yangpaiboon
who won silver medal and Kim Minjung of South Korea won bronze with score of 29. It was Rahi’s biggest
medal of her shooting career.
Rahi Sarnobat
She hails from Kolhapur, Maharashtra. She was first Indian pistol shooter to win gold medal in Shooting
World Cup (25m pistol event in the ISSF World cup in Changwon, China). She had won her first gold medal
at 2008 Commonwealth Youth Games in Pune, India. She was first Indian shooter to qualify for 25 meters
sports pistol event in the Olympics (London Olympics in 2012).
Medals won
Gold: 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games (women’s 25-metre pistol).
Bronze: 2014 Incheon Asian Games (25-metre pistol team event). She had teamed with Anisa Sayyed and
Heena Sidhu.
FSSAI notifies standards for honey and its products to curb adulteration
Food Safety and Standards Authority (FSSAI) has notified food safety standards for honey and its products
in bid to curb adulteration. These standards will be applicable to both domestic manufacturers and
importers. It will help farmers to fetch better prices for their products.
Key Features of new standards
It defines honey as natural sweet substance produced by honey bees from nectar of blossoms or from
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secretions of plants, which honey bees collect, transform and store in honeycombs for ripening. Honey
products should comply with 18 parameters like that of sucrose content, glucose ratio, pollen count,
foreign oligosaccharides etc,
These products should contain fixed maximum 5% limit for sucrose, 10% for carviacallosa and honeydew
honey. The moisture percentage should be maximum 20% and pollen count should be 25,000 per gram. If
product is sold as honey then food ingredient, including food additives should not be added to it.
Honey should not be heated or processed to such extent that its essential composition is changed and its
quality is impaired. Honey can be labelled according to floral or plant source, if it comes from any
particular source and has organoleptic, physicochemical and microscopic properties corresponding with
torigin.
In case of ‘Monofloral Honey’, minimum pollen content of plant species concerned should not be less than
45% of total pollen content. In case of ‘Multi Floral Honey’, pollen content of any of plant species should
not exceed 45% of total pollen content.
Background
About 90,000 tonnes of honey of all varieties is produced annually in the country. There are about 30 lakh
honey bee colonies and five lakh people are engaged in the business. Government considers promoting
farmers to venture into beekeeping business as key component to increase their income. Union
Government is promoting honey production through mission for integrated development of horticulture
(MIDH). It has established National Bee Board for implementing various activities for development of
scientific beekeeping under MIDH.
Raveena Tandon appointed as brand ambassador of Sanjay Gandhi National Park
Maharashtra Government has appointed Bollywood actor Raveena Tandon as the brand ambassador of
Mumbai city-based Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP). She was appointed to spread awareness among
fellow citizens as she is environmentally-conscious citizen and respected member of the community. As
brand ambassador, she will help state forest department to create awareness about its various initiatives,
like 50 crore tree plantation drive, eco-tourism in SGNP and conservation of leopards in SGNP, among
others.
Sanjay Gandhi National Park
It protected area near Mumbai in Maharashtra. It was formerly known as Borivali National Park (renamed
to present name in 1996, after Sanjay Gandhi, eldest son of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.). It is
notable as one of the major national parks existing within metropolis limit and is one of the most visited
parks in the world.
It is spread over are of 103 sq.km in heart of Mumbai city and surrounded by population of 20 million
people. It is part of Western Ghats biodiversity and forms roughly 205 of Mumbai’s geographical area. It is
home to more than 274 species of birds, 35 species of mammals, 78 species of reptiles and amphibians, 170
species of butterflies and over a staggering 1,300 species of plants. Kanheri Caves, 2000 year old complex
of some 160 rock-cut caves (was important Buddhist learning centre) is situated within national park and
is protected archeological site.
India wins four bronze medals in Wushu at 2018 Asian Games
India won four bronze medals in Wushu sporting event (all in Sanda style) at Jakarta-Palembang 2018
Asian Games held in Indonesia. It was India’s best performance so far in Wushu in Asian Games as in
Incheon games in 2014, India had won just two bronze medals.
Four bronze medals winners are
Roshibina Devi: 60kg category.
Santosh Kumar: 56kg category.
Surya Bhanu Partap Singh: 60kg category.
Narender Grewal: 65kg category. He had earlier won bronze in Sanda 60kg in 2014 Asian Games.
Wushu
Wushu is Chinese Kung-fu. It is martial art form that deals with exhibition and full-contact sport derived
from traditional Chinese martial arts. It is different from other combat sports as it is a mix of kick-boxing
and wrestling. It is made up of two disciplines, namely Taoulu (forms) and Sanda (sparring). Sanda
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comprises combative aspect of art-form, while Taoulu involves demonstration of the moves, acrobatic
routines and techniques that that are implemented in Sanda. Wushu is international sport governed
through International Wushu Federation (IWUF).
India Banking Conclave 2018 held in New Delhi
India Banking Conclave (IBC) 2018 was held in New Delhi from 23-24, 2018. It was organised by Centre for
Economic Policy Research (CEPR) along with its knowledge partner and government Think Tank, NITI
Aayog. The conclave was aimed at making India’s banking sector more adaptable to face multiple future
challenges in the coming years.
India Banking Conclave (IBC) 2018
IBC 2018 focused engaging corporates, law and policy makers of country, academicians and professionals
on common platform to make all stakeholders share their views on all impending issues including bad
debts and non-performing assets (NPAs) that have been accumulated in unbiased manner.
IBC 2018 aimed to serve as effective platform for varied stakeholders connected to India’s banking and
financial sectors. It also seek to act as bridge between government and key stakeholders and synergize to
re-invigorate India’s banking and financial sectors as many believe that a healthy, effectively running
banking system can only revive India’s investment cycle and support the country’s growth story.
Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR)
CEPR is network of over 1100 researchers who
ramkishan are
gugulotu based mainly| in universities throughout Europe and
collaborate in research and its dissemination. It was founded in 1983 and is based in London, United
Kingdom. It aims to enhance quality of economic policy-making within Europe and beyond by fostering
high quality, policy-relevant economic research and disseminating it to decision-makers in public and
private sectors. It is funded by a registered, European charity founded in 1983 by Richard Portes, FBA,
CBE.
UGC directs universities and higher education institutions to ban sale of junk food on their campuses
University Grants Commission (UGC) issued circular directing all varsities and higher education
institutions to ban sale of junk food on their campuses. This ban will help will set new standards for
healthy food, making students live better, learn better and reduce obesity levels. It will also help to prevent
lifestyle diseases which have direct link with excessive weight.
Key Facts
The circular was issued after a directive from the HRD ministry, asking the UGC to ban the sale of junk
food on premises of higher education institutions. Similar move was made earlier by Central Board of
Secondary Education (CBSE) which had directed all affiliated schools to take junk food off their canteen
menu. Moreover, schools were also asked to inspect lunch boxes of students, create awareness about
nutritious food and regularly monitor students’ health. The directive was released following report by
Ministry of Women and Child Development (MCB) on consumption of foods high in fat, salt and sugar
(HFSS) and promotion of healthy snacks in schools.
University Grants Commission (UGC)
UGC is statutory body set up by Union government in accordance to UGC Act 1956. It functions under
Ministry of Human Resource Development. It is mandated to initiate important decisions and dialogues
which have important bearing on the entire student population of the country. The three primary
functions of UGC include overseeing distribution of grants to universities and colleges in India, providing
scholarships and fellowships to beneficiaries and monitoring conformity to its regulations by universities
and colleges.
International Buddhist Conclave 2018 held in New Delhi
The International Buddhist Conclave (IBC), 2018 was held in New Delhi. It was inaugurated by President
Ram Nath Kovind. It was sixth edition of International Buddhist Conclave. Its theme was ‘Buddha Path –
The Living Heritage”.
Key Facts
The Conclave was organized by Ministry of Tourism in collaboration with State Governments of
Maharashtra, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. Japan is ‘Partner Country for IBC-2018. It was held from 23rd to
26th August, 2018 at New Delhi and Ajanta (Maharashtra), followed by site visits to Rajgir, Nalanda and
Bodhgaya (Bihar) and Sarnath (Uttar Pradesh). It saw participation delegates from following 29 countries
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including ministerial level delegation from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar and Sri Lanka. This edition of
conclave had religious and spiritual dimension, academic theme and diplomatic and business component.
Background
Union Ministry of Tourism has been organizing International Buddhist Conclave biennially. The earlier
Conclaves were organized in New Delhi and Bodhgaya (February 2004), Nalanda and Bodhgaya (February
2010), Varanasi and Bodhgaya (September 2012), Bodhgaya and Varanasi (September 2014) and in
Sarnath/Varanasi and Bodhgaya (October 2016). ASEAN countries were guest of honour during IBC, 2016.
Objectives of this conclave are
Showcase and project Buddhist Heritage in India.
Boost tourism to Buddhist sites in the country.
Cultivate friendly ties with countries and communities interested in Buddhism.
Buddha Path: It refers to eight great places of Buddhist Heritage (referred in Pali as Aṭṭhamahāṭhānāni).
These places are connected with important events of life of Buddha from the time of his birth,
enlightenment, reaching dhamma to suffering humanity, till he passed away (Mahāparinirvāna) at the age
of 80 years. These are living heritage that still continues to inspire millions of people to walk and find out
peace, happiness, harmony and solace.
PV Sindhu seventh in Forbes list of highest paid women sportspersons
India’s ace Shuttler and Rio Olympics silver medallist
ramkishan PV Sindhu (23)
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | was ranked seventh on Forbes list of
highest-earning women sportspersons in the world (earnings between June 2017 and June 2018). The list
was topped by tennis legend Serena Williams with total earning of $18.062 million including $62,000 as
prize money. Eight of the 10 top highest-earning women sportspersons were tennis players, remaining
two were badminton player and professional racing driver.
Top 10 highest-earning women sportspersons
1. Serena Williams (Tennis): Total earnings: $18.1 million (Prize money: $62,000, Endorsements: $18
million).
2. Caroline Wozniacki (Tennis): Total earnings: $13 million (Prize money: $7 million, Endorsements: $6
million).
3. Sloane Stephens (Tennis): Total earnings: $11.2 million (Prize money: $5.7 million, Endorsements:
$5.5 million).
4. Garbine Muguruza (Tennis): Total earnings: $11 million (Prize money: $5.5 million, Endorsements:
$5.5 million).
5. Maria Sharapova (Tennis): Total earnings: $10.5 million (Prize money: $1 million, Endorsements: $9.5
million).
6. Venus Williams (Tennis): Total earnings: $10.2 million (Prize money: $4.2 million, Endorsements: $6
million).
7. V. Sindhu (Badminton): Total earnings: $8.5 million (Prize money: $500,000, Endorsements: $8
million).
8. Simona Halep (Tennis): Total earnings: $7.7 million (Prize money: $6.2 million, Endorsements: $1.5
million).
9. Danica Patrick (professional racing driver): Total earnings: $7.5 million (Salary/prize money: $3
million, Endorsements: $4.5 million).
10. Angelique Kerber (Tennis): Total earnings: $7 million (Prize money: $3 million, Endorsements: $4
million).
ICOMOS launches Kerala Heritage Rescue Initiative
International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) launched Kerala Heritage Rescue Initiative to
assess damage to rich cultural and built heritage sites in flood-devastated Kerala. ICOMOS is global
monument conservation body.
Kerala Heritage Rescue Initiative
The initiative aims at setting up platform for emergency response to cultural heritage damaged by the
floods in Kerala. It also has set Facebook page to collect information on the damage to buildings, museum
collections, cultural artefacts, libraries, archives, and even intangible heritage.
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Under this initiative, ICOMOS will assess damage and risks to rich tangible, intangible, movable and
immovable heritage that has been adversely affected by floods, including monuments, historic buildings,
museum collections and artefacts of important significance. It will also create heritage response team and
train its members to undertake damage assessment and emergency measures.
ICOMOS has also approached International Centre for Study of the Preservation and Restoration of
Cultural Property (ICCROM) to partner in post-disaster work. ICCROM based in Rome (Italy) is inter-
governmental organisation dedicated to preservation of cultural heritage worldwide through training,
information, research, cooperation and advocacy programmes.
Background
Kerala is endowed with natural beauty and is home to number of iconic forts, palaces and other heritage
buildings, which attract huge number of tourists every year. It is facing its worst floods in nearly century
due to heavy rainfall that has left 223 dead and forced over 10 lakh people out of their homes. The Central
Government has declared this calamity of ‘severe nature’.
Note: Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction calls for cultural heritage and its protection to help in
building resilience and enhance ability of the affected population to participate in its own recovery.
International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS)
ICOMOS is global monument conservation body (non-government organisation) dedicated to promoting
the application of theory, methodologyramkishan
and gugulotu
scientific techniques
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | for conservation of architectural and
archaeological heritage across the world. It is also advisory body to UNESCO for cultural heritage, in
particular for implementation of World Heritage Convention. It was founded in 1965 in Warsaw (Poland)
as a result of the Venice Charter of 1964. It is headquartered in Paris, France.
35% of cyber-attacks on Indian sites from China: CERT-In report
According to recent report by Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In), maximum number
of cyber-attacks on official Indian websites are from China, US and Russia. The report was forwarded to
National Security Council Secretariat (NSCS) and other security agencies. It had analysed cyber-attacks
from April-June 2018.
Key Highlights of report
China continues to intrude Indian cyberspace in significant way as cyber-attacks originating from China
account for largest 35% of total number of cyber-attacks on official Indian websites followed by US (17%),
Russia (15%), Pakistan (9%), Canada (7%) and Germany (5%).
Indian institutions attacked by these malicious activities on cyberspace include Oil and Natural
Gas Corporation (ONGC), National Informatics Centre (NIC), Indian Railway Catering and
Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), Railways, Centre for Railway Information Systems (CRIS) and some
banks like Punjab National Bank (PNB), Oriental Bank of Commerce (OBC), State Bank of India
(SBI) and state data centres, particularly in Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Karnataka. CERT-
In has advised to take appropriate preventive action.
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Pakistan malicious actors from Pakistan are possibly using German and Canadian cyberspace for
intruding into Indian cyberspace and carrying out malicious activities. They are targeting by
sending spear phishing emails with malware attachments. Phishing attacks are usually in form of
email from trusted source where they ask for personal details such as bank details personal details,
passwords.
Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In)
CERT-In is nodal agency for information technology (cyber) security under aegis of Department of
Information Technology, Ministry of Electronics and IT. It was established in 2004. Its mandate is to
protect Indian cyberspace and software infrastructure against destructive and hacking activities. It also
responds to computer security incidents, report on vulnerabilities and promote effective IT security
practices throughout country. It also issue guidelines, vulnerability notes, advisories and whitepapers
regarding to information security practices, prevention.
August 24, 2018
International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition: 23 August
The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition was observed across
world every year on 23 August. The day designated by United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural
Organization (UNESCO) to memorialize the transatlantic slave trade.
Observance of this day marks anniversary of 1791 insurrection of enslaved men and women in western
part of island of Santo Domingo, which is now known as Haiti. These men and women torn from Africa
and sold into slavery had revolted against the slave system. This Haitian Revolution had led to their
freedom and independence in 1804. This Haitian Revolution had led to their freedom and independence in
1804. This uprising was turning point in human history.
Background
International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition was proclaimed by UNESCO
Executive Board by adopting resolution 29 C/40 by its General Conference at its 29th session. The Day
was first celebrated in number of countries, particularly in Haiti on in 1998 and in Senegal in 1999.
Reliance Industries become first Indian company to cross Rs. 8 trillion market cap
Mukesh Ambani-led oil-to-telecom behemoth Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL) became first Indian company
to cross Rs 8 lakh crore ($114 billion) market capitalisation. This record m-cap of RIL also bumped up
Mukesh Ambani’s (India’s richest man) wealth to over $48 billion (according to Bloomberg Billionaires
Index). M-cap is value of company that is traded on stock market, calculated by multiplying total number
of shares by present share price.
Key Facts
RIL achieved Rs 8 lakh crore m-cap feat, after its shares rose by 1.86% to close at a record high of Rs
1,269.70 on Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) in intra-day trade, elevating its market cap to Rs 8.05 lakh
crore. So far this year, RIL shares surged over 38 per cent.
RIL added the latest Rs 1 trillion in market cap in just 23 trading sessions. It had first crossed Rs 7-trillion
market cap in July 2018 (for second time after it had achieved $100 billion m-cap and for first time in
2007). It took 181 trading days to move from Rs 6 trillion to Rs 7 trillion m-cap. Currently, RIL’s market
value accounts for 5% of India’s total market cap.
The market valuation of RIL is considerably higher than IT giant Tata Consultancy Services (TCS’) Rs
7,77,870 crore m-cap. TCS was first Indian IT company to reach Rs. 7 lakh crore ($100 billion club) market
capitalisation (m-cap) milestone in May 2018 and second company after to achieve milestone after RIL.
Reliance Industries Limited (RIL)
It is an Indian conglomerate company founded in 1977 by Dhirubhai Ambani. It is headquartered in
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India. At present, Mukesh Ambani is its Chairman and MD of RIL and owns about
47% stake in it.
RIL is engaged in energy, petrochemicals, textiles, natural resources, retail, and telecommunications. It is
second largest company in India as measured by revenue after government-controlled Indian Oil
Corporation. It is ranked 203rd on the Fortune Global 500 list of the world’s biggest corporations as of
2017. It is ranked 8th among the Top 250 Global Energy Companies by Platts as of 2016.
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Government developing National Logistics Portal

Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry is developing National Logistics Portal is to ensure ease of
trading in international and domestic markets. The portal will link all stakeholders of EXIM (export and
import), domestic trade and movement and all trade activities on single platform.
National Logistics Portal
It will be implemented in phases and will fulfil Central Government’s commitment to enhance trade
competitiveness, create jobs, boost India’s performance in global rankings and pave way for India to
become logistics hub. Stakeholders like traders, manufacturers, logistics service providers, infrastructure
providers, financial services, Government departments and groups and associations will all be on one
platform.
Background
In 2018-19 budget speech, Union Finance Minister had announced that Department of Commerce will
create portal which will be single window online market place for trade and will connect business, create
opportunities and bring together various ministries, departments and private sector.
Logistic Sector
India’s logistics sector is highly defragmented and very complex with more than 20 government agencies,
40 partnering government agencies (PGAs), 37 export promotion councils, 500 certifications, 10000
commodities being stakeholders in it. At present it has 160 billion market size and involves 12 million
employment base, 200 shipping agencies, 36 logistic services, 50 IT ecosystems and banks and insurance
agencies. Government is aiming is to reduce logistics cost from present 14% of GDP to less than 10% by
2022. As per Economic Survey 2017-18, Indian logistics sector provides livelihood to more than 22 million
people. Improving this sector will facilitate 10% decrease in indirect logistics cost leading to growth of 5 to
8% in exports. Further, it estimates that worth of Indian logistics market will be around US $215 billion in
next two years compared to about US $160 billion currently.
Bondi: World Bank launches world’s first blockchain bond
The World Bank launched world’s first public blockchain bond named bond-i created, allocated,
transferred and managed by using blockchain technology. Bond-i is an acronym standing for Blockchain
Offered New Debt Instrument and also refers to tourist famous Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia. Funds
raised from this bond will go towards sustainable development initiatives.
Bond-i
Bond-I is Ethereum blockchain bond denominated in Australian dollars, making it Kangaroo bond
(referring to foreign bonds issued in Australia in local currency). World Bank had chosen Commonwealth
Bank of Australia (largest bank in Austria) was chosen as sole arranger for this bond.
The bond has two-year maturity and had raised Australian $100 million (US$73.16 million) after its
issuance. It was issued and distributed on blockchain platform that runs on an on private Ethereum
network managed and operated by CBA and World Bank. Funds raised through it will go towards
endeavours tied to World Bank’s Reconstruction and Development division for sustainable development
initiatives.
Background
World Bank has often been at forefront of financial innovation. It had issued the first globally traded and
settled bond in 1989 as well the first electronic bond in 2000. The launch of blockchain operated bond is of
part of World Bank’s broader strategic focus to harness potential of latest technologies. It had established
Blockchain Innovation Lab in June 2017 to understand impact of blockchain and other disruptive
technologies and harness their potential applications.
Blockchain Technology
Blockchain is decentralized incorruptible digital ledger for storing data across peer-to-peer network. It
decentralizes information without it being copied. Information is held on blockchain through shared
database which can be accessed on real-time basis. This database is not stored on physical servers but on
cloud, which makes it easy to store unlimited data.
Blockchain technology is not controlled by any single entity and has no single point of failure. It is
transparent and incorruptible. It is kind of self-auditing ecosystem of digital value and blockchain network
automatically checks every transaction that happens in it.
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The most popular application of technology so far has been cryptocurrency. But it is not limited to,
financial transactions and can be also used in smart contracts, supply chain management logistics,
sharing economy, crowdfunding, governance, file storage and date management and Internet of Things
(IoT).
5G steering committee headed by AJ Paulraj submits its report to DoT
The 5G steering committee chaired by Stanford University’s Professor Emeritus AJ Paulraj submitted its
recommendations to the Department of Telecommunications (DoT). It gave wide-ranging
recommendations to drive India’s 5G adoption entailing areas like spectrum policy, regulatory policy,
standards and education.
Background
The committee was set up by Government in September 2017 to suggest a road map for adoption of 5G. It
was high-level forum on 5G technology, comprising secretaries of ministries of communications,
information technology, and science & technology, along with representatives of industry and academia.
Its aim was to push participation in the process of defining global standards for the next generation of
wireless technology.
Recommendations
AJ Paulraj committee gave has proposed promulgation of key norms on regulatory matters by March 2019
in order to facilitate early deployment of 5G gugulotu
ramkishan technology. It expects
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | commercial rollout of 5G in India by
2020. It noted that 5G technologies will start entering service globally beginning 2019 and advance to full
range of services by 2024.
It recommended that deployment of 5G in India should be classified into three phases based on
technologies and use cases. By early embracing 5G technology, India can accelerate its dividends and
potentially also become innovator in 5G applications. It expects that economic impact of 5G to be over $1
trillion.
The committee noted that vendor ecosystem for 5G is maturing as telecom tech giants like Nokia,
Ericsson, Huawei and ZTE have production ready equipment in trials based on 5G-NR standard. China
Telecom is doing a pilot deployment in six cities ahead of the full 5G commercial launch in 2020.
The committee also pointed out conflicting considerations faced by early adoption of 5G. The early
adoption will likely make equipment needed for 5G roll out more expensive and it will also be glitchy as
needed for cost maturing. However, early adoption will fast track India’s embrace of 5G’s benefits and
increase opportunities to develop innovative use cases that support Indian needs.
The committee also noted that even after entry of 5G into Indian telecom sector, the earlier generation
mobile technologies – 2G, 3G and 4G, will continue to remain in use and it may take 10 or more years to
phase out
5G
5G is wireless communication technology based on third-generation partnership project (3GPP). It is next
generation mobile networks technology after 4G LTE networks. It is expected to offer enhanced mobile
broadband (eMBB) through R15 repeaters that can cater to coverage requirements.
The 5G wireless technology will offer far greater upload and download speed i.e. 100 times faster internet
data speed than current 4G networks. It has potential to demonstrates spectral efficiency and potential for
diversified services such as Internet of Things (IoT) and augmented reality (AR)/virtual reality (VR).
In December 2017, 3GPP had completed first set of 5G New Radio standards. High data speed offered by
5G network will help cloud systems to stream software updates, music, and navigation data to driverless
cars. Moreover, it holds the key to growth of artificial intelligence (AI) systems and enhance IoT.
NITI Aayog launches 5 Thematic Reports on Sustainable Development in Himalayan Region
NITI Aayog has released five Thematic Reports on Sustainable Development in Indian Himalayan Region
(IHR) recognizing uniqueness of Himalayas and challenges for sustainable development. These reports list
challenges in all defined five thematic areas and discuss significance, challenges, ongoing actions and
future roadmap.
Background
These reports were prepared by five working groups which were set up by NITI Aayog in June 2017 to
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prepare roadmap for actions in five thematic areas that are quite significant for the Himalayas. These
areas were Inventory and Revival of Springs in Himalayas for Water Security, Sustainable Tourism in Indian
Himalayan Region, Transformative Approach to Shifting Cultivation, Strengthening Skill &
Entrepreneurship Landscape in Himalayas and Data and Information for Informed Decision Making. These
working groups were constituted after NITI Aayog recognised that Himalayan mountains require specific
solutions for resilience building that address socio-economic and environmental challenges in the
mountain setting.
Key Features of five Thematic reports
Inventory and Revival of springs in Himalayas for Water Security: Nearly 30% of springs, crucial to
water security of people in Himalayas are drying and 50% have reported reduced discharge. There is need
for spring mapping and revival by using eight steps protocol that must be taken up across Himalayan
States in phased manner. It calls for setting up of Mission on Spring Water Management in Himalayas.
Sustainable Tourism in Indian Himalayan Region: Himalayan Tourism is growing annually at 6.8% and
has created huge challenge related to solid waste, water, traffic, loss of bio-cultural diversity etc. Projected
arrival of tourists will be more than double by 2025. Urgent actions are needed to address issues of waste
management and water crisis. The concept of carrying capacity must be applied to all major tourist
destinations. Besides tourism sector standards must be implemented and monitored. Performance based
incentives must be approved for states. Himalayan Authority must be launched for coordinated and
holistic development of entire Himalayan region. “Himalaya Calling: An Awareness to Action Campaign”
must be launched as people’s movement.
Transformative approach to shifting cultivation: Thousands of households in north eastern states,
continue to practice shifting cultivation i.e. slash and burn (Jhum cultivation) which needs to be addressed
in view of ecological, food and nutritional security. There is urgent need for assessment of nature and
extent of shifting cultivation area. Moreover there is need for improved policy coherence, strengthened
tenurial security and improved access to related programs for transform shifting cultivation. National
Mission/Program on Transforming Shifting Cultivation in North Eastern States must be set up.
Strengthening Skill and Entrepreneurship Landscape in Himalayas: The Himalayan states face severe
challenge of unskilled workforce and migration of youths. There is urgent need to strengthen skill and
entrepreneurship workforce in Himalayan region with required focus on identified priority sectors where
mountains have advantage, along with investment in trainers, assessors and setting up training centers
with industry partnership. There is need to set up demand driven network of skill and entrepreneurship
development Centers in Himalayan States along with consortium of institutions of high learning for
mountain specific research and technology.
Data/Information for Informed Decision Making: Himalayan states face challenges related to data
availability, data authenticity, compatibility, data quality, validation, user charges. It needs to be addressed
for informed decision making at different levels of governance. Central Data Management Agency for
Himalayas must be set up to provide data with high fidelity scenario. It will help in addressing data
sharing, access, authenticity and comparability issues. It should be linked with Hindukush Himalaya
Monitoring and Assessment program (HIMAP). Central Data Management Agency for Himalayan
Database must be set up at GB Pant National Institute of Himalayan Environment and Development.
August 25, 2018
IAF launches Speedex Contract
Indian Airforce has formally launched The Stores, Proactive, Efficient and Expeditious Despatch of Extra Size/
Wt Consignment (SPEEDEX) contract. It was concluded in June 2018 between with Balmer Lawrie & Co Ltd
and Ashok Travel and Tours for air and surface component respectively.
SPEEDEX contract
The contract aims to overcome delay in piecemeal dispatch of consignment and to move operationally
urgent stores by air and normal consignments by surface mode. This will facilitate door to door pickup
and delivery facility with fixed timelines, lesser than speed post. It will help to enhance IAF’s support
maintenance activities and improve operational preparedness.
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Background
The ability to lift, shift and move is essence of sound transportation management. It has profound impact
on all principles of military logistics. In the past, IAF had been using hired transport for movement of
cargo to various IAF bases, which resulted in delay in dispatch of critically required stores. Therefore,
overcome this delay and reduce time taken for transportation of items and ensure early availability of
stores to the field units this contract was formulated.
The MTB: IAF launches Trans Himalayan Mountain Terrain Biking Expedition
Indian Air Force (IAF) launched Trans-Himalayan Mountain Terrain Biking Expedition (THE MTB) as part
of its celebration of 86th Anniversary on 8 October 2018. The expedition was started on 17 Aug 2018 from
Daulat Beg Oldie (DBO) in Ladakh for Kibithu in Arunachal Pradesh. DBO and Kibithu are two forward
most outposts of India in North and in East with DBO being highest airfield in the world located altitude
of 16614 feet.
The MTB
The aim of MTB expedition is to promote spirit of adventure among Air Warriors to undertake daunting
challenges and ‘Go Green’ initiative. The team for expedition consisted of 18 Air warriors (12 riders and 06
support staff) which also include two women officers. It is led by Wg Cdr S Sharathchandra.
The team covered distance of more than 4500 km through mountain terrain passing through states of
Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Assam
ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | and Arunachal Pradesh. This is for first
time IAF has undertaken mountain terrain biking expedition of such magnitude. Under this adventure
expedition, IAF team will undertake involves camping and living outdoors, managing and surviving on
their own in snow, rain and extreme climatic conditions throughout the expedition.
Neta App launched to rate and review elected representatives
Former President Pranab Mukherjee launched National Electoral Transformation (NETA) mobile
application that allows voters to rate and review their political representatives. The app is brainchild of
27-year-old entrepreneur Pratham Mittal. It is first of its kind platform in India that allows voters to rate
and review the political representatives in their constituencies.
NETA app
The app aims to foster political accountability and transparency among leaders. It is inspired by US’
approval system. Using it, voters can review and rate their elected representatives (MLAs, MPs and
ministers) and hold them accountable as well. It will also help to determine popularity of politicians and
electoral candidates, using public polls.
This app is also seen as instrument to gauge voter sentiment across constituencies in the country. It uses
multiple mediums like the app, IVR calls, SMS and even offline activations with help of Aashawadi and
Aanganwadi workers to gather data on evolving political inclinations.
The app is available on Andriod and iOS and web in 16 languages to cater to a diverse user profile. It uses
combination of Artificial Intelligence (AI), one-time password (OTP) and Aadhaar numbers to ensure that
voters who rate leaders are genuine.
This app was piloted during February 2018 bypolls in Rajasthan’s Ajmer and Alwar constituencies. It was
later used in Karnataka ahead of the assembly elections in May 2018. The app in its beta version has
already seen over 1.5 crore voters rating and reviewing their local leaders.
TRIBES India Outlets to open at Ahmedabad, Udaipur and Kolkata airports
Airport Authority of India (AAI) has allotted space to Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development
Federation of India Limited (TRIFED) for opening of Tribes India outlets at Ahmedabad (Gujarat), Udaipur
(Rajasthan) and Kolkata (West Bengal) airports. Tribes India Outlets will provide good opportunity to
market tribal products and help to promote tribes India as brand among target customers.Besides, AAI
also has offered TRIFED spaces at international airports at Dehradun (Uttarakhand), Varanasi (Uttar
Pradesh), Pune (Maharashtra), Goa, Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu), Lucknow (UP), Amritsar (Punjab) and
Gangtok (Sikkim) for setting up of Tribes India Outlets.
Tribal Cooperative Marketing Development Federation of India Limited (TRIFED)
TRIFED is multi-State Cooperative Society under Ministry of Tribal Affairs. It was established in August
1987 under Multi State Cooperative Societies Act 1984 (now been replaced by Multi-State Cooperative
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Societies Act, 2002). It is headquartered in New Delhi.

It aims at promoting economic development of tribal communities of country through marketing
development and sustained upgradation of their skills and products. It achieves this by promoting and
marketing tribal products, tribal art and crafts within country and abroad by providing marketing
support to tribal products through its network of retail outlets.
It also organizes exhibitions like National Tribal Craft Expo called “Aadi Mahotsav” etc. to promote and
market tribal products. It also facilitates participation of tribal artisans to enable them to interact directly
with art lovers to assess market needs.
Home Ministry revokes security clearance to Qatar-based English news channel Al Jazeera
Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has revoked security clearance of Qatar government’s state-
funded English news broadcaster Al Jazeera. It is believed that main reason for this revocation is
considered to be over documentary made by Qatari channel on militancy in Jammu & Kashmir (J&K),
which Indian Government viewed as “biased”. Al Jazeera has reportedly filed petition for reviewing this
decision.
Note: The role of MHA is limited to matter related to security clearance. The decision on cancellation of
broadcasting licence of news channel is taken by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
Key Facts
Foreign channels need security clearanceramkishan
from MHA and broadcasting clearance from Union Information
and Broadcasting Ministry. Al Jazeera’s security clearance was valid from December 3, 2010, and expired
on May 29, 2018. Earlier also Al Jazeera had was involved into controversy with Indian government before.
In 2015, it had published an incorrect map of J&K. For this, Government had then suspended it for 5 days
in which time they carried blank screen with a message running on it as instructed by Ministry of
Information and Broadcasting.
Some other channels who were rejected security clearances recently include ABC News, Focus NE TV,
Voice of Nation, Jhankar News, Maa TV, Bhakti Sagar, M Tunes and Lemon News. In some cases channels
have their permissions withdrawn for other reasons too such as owners seeking cancellations, non-
operationalisation of channel, non-submission of documents.
MEA May 2018 notification
In May 2018, Ministry of External Affairs had reminded foreign journalists that it is mandatory for them
to take prior permission before travelling to areas such as J&K as well as Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim and
parts of Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan as these are considered protected and restricted areas.
Freedom Baby: India’s first Humboldt penguin dies
India’s first captive-born Humboldt Penguin named Freedom Baby died barely a week after it was born at
Veermata Jijabai Bhosale Udyan and Zoo (Byculla zoo). It died due to new born anomalies like liver
dysfunction and yolk sac retention.
Freedom Baby
The penguin chick was born on 15th August 2018 to penguin pair of Mr Molt (male) and Flipper (Female). It
was named Freedom Baby as it was born on Independence Day. It was born 40 days incubation period
after Flipper, oldest female in zoo’s penguin colony hatched single egg it had laid. It was the first
Humboldt Penguin to born in captivity in India.
Background
Byculla zoo had imported eight Humboldt Penguins – later named as Dory, Donald, Daisy, Popeye, Olive,
Bubble, Flipper and Mr Molt – from a South Korea zoo in July 2016. These penguins are kept in special
enclosure which is spread across 1,700 sqft where average temperature of 16-18 degrees celsius is
maintained. The water quality is regularly tracked and penguins are fed various fish, including Indian
Mackerels. One female penguin Dory was not able to survive and had died in October 2016 following
bacterial infection. These penguins have been top attraction of the Mumbai zoo.
Humboldt penguin: It is named after the cold water current (Humboldt current) it swims in. It is native to
South America and breeds in coastal Chile and Peru. It is categorized as vulnerable under IUCN list.
SCO Peace Mission 2018: SCO counter-terror military exercise held in Chebarkul, Russia
The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Peace Mission 2018 was held in Chebarkul, Russia. Military
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contingents of the all eight SCO member nations (China, Russia, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Kazakhstan, India
and Pakistan) participated in this exercise. The exercise was aimed at enhancing cooperation between
member states to deal with growing threat of terrorism and extremism. It was for first time since
independence, India and Pakistan simultaneously took part military exercise, though armies of two rival
neighbouring countries had earlier worked together in United Nations (UN) peacekeeping missions.
SCO Peace Mission 2018
The exercise provided opportunity to armed forces of SCO nations to train in counter terrorism
operations in urban scenario in multinational and joint environment The scope of exercise included
professional interaction, mutual understanding of drills and procedures, establishment of joint command
and control structures and elimination of terrorist threat in urban counter terrorist scenario. It also
helped to strengthen mutual confidence, interoperability and enable sharing of best practices among
armed forces of the SCO nations.
Around 3,000 soldiers from eight SCO member countries took part in the exercise. Russian Army was had
major participation with 1700 personnel followed by China with 700, India with 200 personnel (167 Indian
Army personnel including four women officers and 33 personnel from Indian Air Force). Pakistan
contingent comprised of 110 members
Note: The SCO Peace Mission Exercise takes place every two years. The previous editions of this exercise
were mainly limited to Central Asian nations. But due to the entry of India and Pakistan (in June 2017),
SCO’s counter-terrorism mission now has been expanded to South Asia.
Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO)
SCO is political and security grouping of eight countries headquartered in Beijing, China. It was founded
in 2001. The full members of SCO are China, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, India
and Pakistan. They represent over 40% of humanity and nearly 20% of the global GDP. Afghanistan,
Belarus, Iran and Mongolia have observer status at present.
SCO is successor of grouping called Shanghai Five, founded by China in 1996. It comprised Russia,
Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. In 2001 Uzbekistan was invited to join it and SCO was officially
born. After Astana Summit Declaration in 2005, SCO has emerged as regional security organization.
SCO’s main objective is military cooperation between the members. It also works towards intelligence-
sharing, counter-terrorism operations in Central Asia. It is primarily centred on its member nations’
Central Asian security-related concerns, often describing main threats it confronts as being terrorism,
separatism and extremism. The role of China as well as strategic importance of SCO has increased over
period of decade and now address problems like terrorism, separatism and militancy in the region.
India, Singapore sign second protocol amending CECA
India and Singapore have signed Second Protocol amending Comprehensive Economic Cooperation
Agreement (CECA) in New Delhi. Its provisions will come into effect on 14th September, 2018.
Second Protocol amending CECA
It will help to boost bilateral trade between India and Singapore. It formally brings to closure negotiations
on second review of CECA. It will give effect to provisions agreed between India and Singapore during
closure of second review of CECA. It will give effect to provisions agreed between India and Singapore
during closure of the second review of CECA.
Background
CECA was first comprehensive agreement covering trade in goods, services and investments signed by
India with any of its trading partners. It was signed in June, 2005 and its first review was concluded in
October, 2007. The second review was started in May 2010. In closing second review, India and Singapore
had successfully reached mutual understanding and agreement. They also had agreed to expand coverage
of tariff concessions, liberalize Rules of Origin, rationalize Product Specific Rules and include provisions
on Certificate of Origin and Cooperation on its verification. These measures will further facilitate trade
between India and Singapore and also improve utilization of CECA. The conclusion of second review was
announced during state visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Singapore in June, 2018. Now, both
countries are exploring the possibility of launching the 3rd Review of India-Singapore CECA in September,
2018.
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India-Singapore Trade
Singapore is second largest trading partner of India within ASEAN and India is largest trading partner of
Singapore in South Asia with bilateral trade of US $17.7 billion in 2017-18. Singapore’s trade with India
constitutes about 21.8% of our total trade with ASEAN and 2.3% of our global trade. India had trade
surplus of US $2.73 billion with Singapore in 2017-18.
FabCI: IIT Hyderabad launches exclusive incubator to boost chip design
Indian Institute of Technology-Hyderabad (IIT-H) has launched “Fabless Chip Design Incubator (FabCI)”,
an exclusive incubator to boost chip design. It is first of its kind in India that will focus on creating an
ecosystem for start-ups in chip design.
Fabless Chip Design Incubator (FabCI)
FabCI is funded by Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeITY) along with technology
partners Cadence Design Systems and Mentor Graphics both are leading providers of Electronic Design
Automation (EDA) software, hardware and IP. I
FabCI’s purpose is to incubate at least 50 ‘Make-in-India’ chip design companies that can compete globally
and generate Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs). It will provide bouquet of offerings including free
software tools with leading technology partners in Electronic Design Automation (EDA), characterization
facility for testing chips and equipment for performing DC and RF characterization. It will also offer
virtual support to non-Hyderabad start-ups which
ramkishan gugulotu can join |FabCI and leverage the offerings and
participate remotely.
UIDAI makes face recognition feature mandatory for Aadhaar authentication
Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) has announced new measure to make facial recognition
mandatory for every authentication that requires Aadhaar. The facial recognition will come as additional
feature along withregular authentication process that includes identification of an individual based on
fingerprints or eye scans.
Key Facts
This new measure for using facial recognition is being implemented following official circulars issued by
UIDAI to Authentication Service Agencies, Authentication User Agencies and certified biometric device
providers. It is being used to provide additional security layer and also make Aadhaar process more
inclusive. This process will be rolled out in phased manner and it will be initially mandated for providers
of SIM cards of telecom service providers (TSPs). The telecom operators have been directed that at least
10% of their total monthly authentication transactions should be performed using facial recognition from
September 15, 2018.
Significance
The most common services that require Aadhaar authentication include issuance of mobile SIM cards,
banks verification, public distribution system (PDS) and office attendance at government offices. There
have been numerous instances where people have been excluded from Aadhaar authentication as their
fingerprints were worn out due to old age or because of being involved in manual labour or agriculture.
The use of facial recognition will help include such people in Aadhaar authentication process.
Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI)
UIDAI is nodal statutory organization behind Aadhaar, a 12 digit unique number. It was granted statutory
status by Aadhaar (Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services) Act, 2016.
Aadhaar is 10 digit number is linked with an individual’s demographic and biometric information, which
serves as an authentication tool throughout India. Using Aadhaar, Union and State Governments are
trying to link many of their major development and subsidy schemes to reduce leakages and duplication.
August 26, 2018
Rohan Bopanna, Divij Sharan win gold medal in Men’s Doubles tennis at 2018 Asian Games
Indian tennis pair of Rohan Bopanna and Divij Sharan won gold medal in Men’s Doubles tennis at 2018
Asian Games. In the final match, they defeated Kazakhstan’s Aleksandar Bublik and Denis Yevseyv pair by
6-3, 6-4 score in a match that lasted 52 minutes. Earlier in semi-final, Rohan Bopanna and Sharan had won
against Japan’s Kaito Uesugi and Sho Shimabukoro by 4-6, 6-3, 10-8 score in three-set match which lasted
for 72 minutes.
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2018 Asian Games

It is 18th edition of Asian Games hosted by Indonesia. It was held from August 18 to September 2, 2018 in
two cities – Jakarta (capital of Indonesia) and Palembang (capital of Indonesia’s province of South
Sumatra). It is second time Indonesia hosting Asian Games. For first, it was held in Jakarta in 1962.
Mascots: Trio of Bhin Bhin (bird of paradise), Kaka (one horned rhino) and Atung (deer) are mascots of
2018 Asian Games. These three mascots represent east, west and centre of country and they have dress
traditional to each locality.
Shot-putter Tejinder Pal Singh Toor wins India’s first Gold medal in Athletics at 2018 Asian Games
Shot-putter Tejinder Pal Singh Toor (24) won Gold medal in men’s shot put final at 2018 Jakarta-
Palembang Asian GamesAsian Games held in Indonesia. He finished first in men’s shot put final and set
new record at 20.75 m in his fifth attempt. It was India’s first Gold medal in Athletics event in this edition of
Asian Games.
Tejinder Pal Singh Toor
He hails from Punjab (Khosa Pando village in Moga district) and is son of farmer. He holds outdoor
national record of 20.75m in shot put throw. He had won silver medal at 2017 Asian Athletics
Championships held in Bhubaneswar, Odisha in shot put with throw of 19.77m, missing out on gold medal
by 0.03 m. He had finished eighth infinal of 2018 Commonwealth Games with throw of 19.42m.
DAC approves procurement of 24| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
ramkishan gugulotu multi role helicopters | for Indian Navy
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved procurement 24 anti-submarine capable multi role
helicopters to enhance capability of Indian Navy at sea. This approval will allow Government to sign
contract US based aviation giant Lockheed Martin for purchasing 24 MH-60R helicopters for Indian Navy.
This contract will be direct government-to-government (G2G) deal with United States worth
approximately $1.8 billion. MH-60R helicopters (or Seahawk multi-mission helicopters)are anti-submarine
helicopters. Buying them will replace British-built Sea King helicopters, many of which are more than
three-decades-old.
Background
Multi role helicopters are integral part of frontline warships like aircraft carriers, destroyers, frigates and
corvettes. Availability of MRH with Indian Navy will help to plug existing capability gap. For years, Indian
Navy has argued that its warships lack any modern anti-submarine helicopters with existing Sea King
fleet now being obsolete. At present less than 10 Sea King helicopters are operational and their absence
has forced Indian Navy to sail its warships without support of these helicopters. Frontline destroyers of
Indian Navy have hangars which can house two helicopters of this class but frequently put to sea without
any integral helicopter support.
DAC approves procurement of Vertically Launched Short Range Missile Systems
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved procurement of 14 Vertically Launched Short Range
Missile Systems. Of these, 10 systems will be indigenously developed and remaining four will be imported.
These missile systems will help boost self-defence capability of ships against anti-ship missiles. DAC is
Union Defence Ministry’s highest decision making body on capital procurement of Indian Armed Forces
(Army, Navy and Air Force). It is chaired by Defence Minister.
Vertically Launched Missile Systems (VLS)
VLS is advanced system for holding and firing missiles on mobile naval platforms, such as surface ships
and submarines. Each vertical launch system consists of number of cells, which can hold one or more
missiles ready for firing. Typically, each cell can hold number of different types of missiles, allowing ship
flexibility to load best set for any given mission.
India’s first interstate connected wind power project commissioned in Bhuj
126 MW wind power capacity, part of India’s first inter-state transmission system (ISTS) auction, was
commissioned in Bhuj, Gujarat. It was part of India’s first ISTS auction was conducted by state-run Solar
Energy Corporation of India Ltd (SECI) in February 2017.
Key Facts
This was bid for projects to be connected on ISTS wherein power generated from one state (renewable
resource rich state) can be transmitted to other renewable deficient states. The energy generated from
this project is being purchased by Bihar, Odisha, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh. The first auction signifies
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major shift from earlier regime of state-specific feed-in-Tariff (FiT) model to Pan-India, market-driven
mechanism. It also marks beginning of capacity additions in wind power based on market discovered
tariffs, in line with the Government’s plan of having 175 GW renewable energy by 2022.
DAC approves procurement of 155 mm Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved procurement of 150 indigenously designed and
developed 155 mm Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems for Indian Army at approximate cost of Rs
3,364.78 crores. This procurement will further quest for modernisation of Armed forces.
155 mm Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems
These guns have been indigenously designed & developed by Defence Research and Development
Organisation (DRDO). They will be manufactured by production agencies as nominated by DRDO. They
are likely to mainstay of Artillery in near future.
Procurement of indigenous artillery gun systems will provide major fillip to ‘Make in India’ programme of
Government. It will also help to create self-reliance in country’s defence manufacturing sector. It also has
potential of making defence industry as a major engine of India’s economic growth.
Dr G. Satheesh Reddy appointed as Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman, DRDO
The Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) has appointed distinguished missile scientist Dr. G
Satheesh Reddy was appointed as Secretary of Department of Defence R&D (DDR&D) and Chairman of
Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). Prior| to this appointment he was scientific
ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
adviser to defence minister and director general, Missiles & Strategic Systems (DG MSS). Union
Government in May 2015 had bifurcated post of scientific adviser to defence minister-cum-DRDO chief,
which was held by one person till then.
Dr. G Satheesh Reddy
He is well known for his significant contributions to indigenous design, development, deployment of
diversified missiles and strategic systems, guided weapons, avionics technologies and for sustained efforts
in advancement of aerospace technologies & industries in India.
He hails from Nellore in Andhra Pradesh. He had graduated in electronics and communication
engineering from JNTU, Anantapur, and received his MS & Ph.D from JNTU, Hyderabad. He joined
Defence Research and Development Laboratory (DRDL), Hyderabad in 1986. Subsequently he had joined
Research Centre Imarat (RCI), which is brain child of scientist and late president Dr APJ Abdul Kalam,
after its formation.
He was elevated as Distinguished Scientist in September 2014 and was appointed as scientific adviser to
defence minister in May 2015. In this role, he had significantly contributed to formulation of many
national policies and was pivotal in evolving roadmap for self-sufficiency in missiles.
As DG of Missiles and Strategic Systems (DG, MSS), he had spearheaded Abdul Kalam Missile Complex
Laboratories – ASL, DRDL and RCI, ITR, TBRL and other technical facilities. He also had led design and
development of wide range of tactical and strategic missile systems to attain complete self-sufficiency in
missiles and initiated many projects to equip armed forces with state-of-the-art weapons and
technologies.
He also had played important role in invigorating Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) programme and
developed mission critical technologies for long range Agni-5 missile. As director, RCI, he had led many
programmes, projects and steered development of indigenous RF and IIR Seekers.
DAC approves procurement of 111 utility helicopters for Indian Navy
Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) chaired by Defence Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has approved
procurement of 111 utility helicopters for Indian Navy at cost of over Rs 21,000 crore. DAC is Union
Defence Ministry’s highest decision making body on capital procurement of Indian Armed Forces (Army,
Navy and Air Force).
Key Facts
The procurement of 111 utility helicopters will be first project under Defence Ministry’s prestigious
Strategic Partnership (SP) Model that aims at providing significant fillip to Government’s ‘Make in India’
programme. Several aviation majors including Airbus (Eurpore), Kamov (Russia) and Bell (US) have
offered their bids for this project in addition to state owned Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL).
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Indian Navy will shortlist helicopter it wants after extensive evaluation process which will be followed by
contract where most of these helicopters will need to be built in the country in conjunction with local
partners. The contract when finalised will result in vibrant and wide-spread Defence industrial eco-
system in Indian Aviation Sector with private industry and MSMEs as major stakeholders.
Strategic Partnership (SP) Model
It envisages indigenous manufacturing of major defence platforms by Indian Strategic Partner, who will
collaborate with foreign OEMs (original equipment manufacutures), acquire niche technologies and set up
production facilities in country. The model has long-term vision of promoting India as manufacturing hub
for defence equipment. It will help in enhancing self-sufficiency and establishing an industrial and R&D
ecosystem, capable of meeting future requirements of Indian Armed Forces.
Aeolus: European Space Agency launches world’s first wind-sensing satellite
European Space Agency (ESA) has successfully launched wind-sensing satellite named Aeolus into orbit on
board of Vega rocket from French Guyana. It is world’s first wind-sensing satellite dedicated to map
Earth’s wind on global scale in particular tropical winds which are very poorly mapped because of almost
complete absence of direct observations.
Aeolus satellite
The satellite is Aeolus named after guardian of wind in Greek mythology. It will be placed at altitude of
320km above the Earth. It is part of the ramkishan
Copernicus project, a joint
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | initiative of European Union (EU) and
European Space Agency (ESA) to track environmental damage and aid disaster relief operations.
Aeolus satellite is equipped with single instrument Doppler wind lidar (named Aladin), which is advanced
laser system is designed to accurately measure global wind patterns from space. It will probe lower layers
of atmosphere, down to altitude of about 30 km to yield vertical profiles of wind and information on
aerosols and clouds.
Significance: Aeolus satellite will provide much-needed data to improve quality and accuracy of weather
forecasting. It will help to improve understanding of working of atmosphere dynamics and contribute to
climate change research.
Working of Doppler lidar
It transmits short, powerful pulses of laser light toward Earth in ultraviolet (UV) spectrum. Particles in air
(such as moisture, dust, gases) scatter small fraction of that light energy back to transceiver, where it is
collected and recorded. The delay between outgoing pulse and so-called backscattered signal reveals
wind’s direction, speed and distance travelled. Data transmitted from Aeolus satellite will be downloaded
at ground station in Svalbard, Norway.
Note: Aeolus space mission was fifth of ESA’s planned Earth Explorer missions. Others already have
completed or in operation. They have measured Earth’s gravity and geomagnetic fields, soil moisture,
ocean salinity and frozen expanses collectively known as cryosphere.
August 27, 2018
NASA’s OSIRIS-REx spacecraft catches its first glimpse of its target Bennu asteroid
NASA’s asteroid sampling spacecraft OSIRIS-REx has captured first images of its target asteroid Bennu
and began its final approach towards it after almost two-year journey. OSIRIS-Rex stands for Origins,
Spectral Interpretation, Resource Identification, Security-Regolith Explorer. The first glimpses of targeted
asteroid were captured by PolyCam camera OCAMS on board of OSIRIS-Rex from a distance of 2.1 million
kilometre. It will help to study Bennu’s size, shape, surface features, and surroundings.
OSIRIS-Rex
OSIRIS-Rex mission was launched in September 2016 for studying 101955 Bennu, a carbonaceous asteroid.
It is NASA’s first asteroid sampling mission i.e. it will survey surface, collect sample and deliver it safely
back to Earth. So far, it has travelled approximately 1.8 billion kilometres since its launch. During its
approach phase, OSIRIS-REx will regularly observe area around the asteroid to search for dust plumes and
natural satellites and study its light and spectral properties.
The spacecraft is scheduled to reach small, roundish asteroid in 2018 and return to Earth after collecting
some of its gravels by 2023. OSIRIS-Rex will capture 60 grams dirt and debris from surface of asteroid
using its robotic arm without landing i.e. by hovering like hummingbird stirred up by nitrogen gas
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thrusters and then to Earth for detailed analysis of the collected samples.
After arrival at Bennu, OSIRIS-Rex spacecraft will spend first month performing flybys of asteroid’s
northpole, equator and south pole at distances ranging between 19 and 7 kilometres from it. These
manoeuvres will allow for first direct measurement of Bennu’s mass as well as close-up observations of
surface. These trajectories will also provide the mission’s navigation team with experience navigating
near the asteroid.
Bennu
Bennu is near-Earth carbonaceous asteroid about the size of a small mountain in the Apollo group. It was discovered
in September 1999 by the LINEAR Project. It is carbon-rich asteroid and believed to be the type of asteroids that may
have chemical building blocks of life, along with lots of water. So, analysis of returned sample from it could help to
reveal key insights about early solar system and the origin of life on Earth. It is potentially hazardous asteroid and
there is very slight chance it could strike into Earth in the late 22nd century.
G20 Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting held in Salta, Argentina

The G20 Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting was held in Salta, Argentina from 23 to 24 August, 2018. It
took place as part of Sherpa Track for 2018 G20 Leaders’ Summit, which is to be hosted by Argentina by
end of 2018. The theme of the meeting was ‘Building consensus for fair and sustainable development‘. Its
three key issues for the agenda were future ofgugulotu
ramkishan work, infrastructure
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | for development, and sustainable food
future. It concluded with adaptation of declaration that reflects G20’s commitment towards promoting
policies and actions that catalyze digital transformations.
Key Facts
The meeting was attended by 33 heads of delegation- ministers, senior officials and representatives from
invited countries and international organizations like EU, UNCTAD, ITU etc. India was represented by
Union Minister for Electronics and IT & Law and Justice Ravi Shankar Prasad.
The participating delegates deliberated upon efforts to create conditions that help governments, private
sector and civil society maximize benefits and confront challenges posed by technological progress. The
other focus areas which were also deliberated included digital inclusion in particular gender divide, digital
government, digital infrastructure and measuring digital economy.
Participating G20 member nations agreed to promote policies that will contribute to bridging all forms of
digital divide with special attention to digital gender divide. They also agreed to promote digital
government and digital infrastructure, strengthen digital skills of workforce, deepen analysis towards
digital economy measurement and to share experiences and lesson learned.
G20
Group of Twenty (G20) is premier forum for international economic cooperation and decision-making. It
is a forum for governments and central bank governors from 20 major economies to focus on economic
issues and other important development challenges.
The G20 comprises of total 19 countries plus European Union (EU), representing 85% of global GDP, 80% of
international trade, 65% of world’s population. Its members include Australia, Argentina, Brazil, Canada,
China, India, France, Germany, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, South Korea, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Turkey, South
Africa, UK, US and EU.
It was started in 1999 as meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors in the aftermath of the
South-east Asian (Tiger economies) financial crisis. It was established for studying, reviewing, and
promoting high-level discussion of policy issues pertaining to the promotion of international financial
stability.
In 2008, the first G20 Leaders’ Summit was held in Washington DC, US. Prior to this, it was merely forum
for meeting of Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors. The group has played key role in
responding to the global financial crisis.
Madhya Pradesh Government seeks revival of Cheetah Reintroduction Project
Madhya Pradesh forest department has written to National Tiger Conservation Authority (NTCA) to
revive its Cheetah Reintroduction Project to reintroduce Cheetahs in Nauradehi sanctuary located in
Sagar district of state. The ambitious project was conceived in 2009 but had hit roadblock for want of
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funds.
Key Facts
Cheetah, fastest land animal was declared extinct in India in 1952. India’s last spotted Asiatic cheetah
(Acinonyx jubatus venaticus) had died in Chhattisgarh in 1947. This species was hunted into extinction by
British colonial officers and Indian royalty. According to earlier action plan, around 20 cheetahs were to be
translocated to Nauradehi from Namibia in Africa. Namibia Cheetah Conservation Fund had then showed
its willingness to donate felines to India However, State was not ready to finance plan contending that it
was the Centre’s project.
Background
In 2011, NTCA, a statutory body under Union Environment Ministry had committed Rs.50 crore to State
for this project. Dehradun based Wildlife Institute of India (WII) also had prepared Rs. 260 crore Cheetah
Re-introduction Project in 2012. It was estimated that Rs. 25 crore to Rs. 30 crore will be needed to build
enclosure with huge boundary walls in area of 150 sq km for introduction and protection of Cheetahs in
Nauradehi before releasing them in wild. Nauradehi sanctuary was found to be most suitable area for
reintroduction of Cheetahs as its forests are not very dense to restrict fast movement of Cheetahs and also
has abundant prey base.
BNHS to open its first regional centre near Chilika Lake
The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS), one
ramkishan gugulotu of India’s premier
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | avian research institutes, will start
operating its first regional centre or avifauna observatory on the campus of Wetland Research and
Training Centre near Chilika Lake (Asia’s largest brackish water lagoon), Odisha.
Key Facts
The avifauna observatory will carry out research on avian disease by collecting samples and monitor
Nalabana Bird Sanctuary. It will be engaged in identifying air route of foreign birds flocking Chilika lake
during winter, sample collection, training related to bird census, publishing bird migration atlas books,
examining various diseases among the birds and review condition of Nalabana bird sanctuary along with
counting birds.
Bombay Natural History Society (BHNS)
BNHS is one of the largest non-governmental organisations in India engaged in conservation and
biodiversity research. It was founded on 15 September 1883 and headquartered at Hornbill House,
Mumbai. It supports many research efforts through grants and publishes Journal of Bombay Natural
History Society. Department of Science and Technology has designated as ‘Scientific and Industrial
Research Organisation’.
Chilika Lake
It is largest coastal lagoon or brackish water lake in India and Asia and second largest lagoon in the world
(after The New Caledonian barrier reef in New Caledonia). It is located at mouth of Daya River, flowing
into Bay of Bengal. It is spread over Puri, Khurda and Ganjam districts of Odisha on east coast of India,
covering an area of over 1,100 km sq. It hosts nearly one million birds with 97 species being
intercontinental migratory in nature during the winter season. It is largest wintering ground for
migratory waterfowl found anywhere on Indian sub-continent. It is one of hotspot of biodiversity in
country and some rare, vulnerable and endangered species listed in IUCN Red List of threatened animals.
It was first waterbody in Indian to be designated as wetland of international importance under the
Ramsar Convention in 1981. It was put under Montreux Record (record for such sites where there has been
or likely to be adverse ecological change due to manmade activities), but was later removed from it due to
conservation efforts.
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3rd Indian Ocean Conference held in Hanoi, Vietnam

The third edition of Indian Ocean Conference was held in Hanoi, capital city of Vietnam from 27-28
August 2018. It was inaugurated by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and her Vietnamese
counterpart Pham Binh Min, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam.
Key Facts
The third edition of the Conference wasramkishan
organised by India Foundation
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | in association with Diplomatic
Academy of Vietnam, S Rajaratnam School of International Studies (RSIS), Sri Lanka and Bangladesh
Institute of International and Strategic Studies. Its theme was “Building Regional Architectures”. Tt will
see participation from around 35 countries and have speakers from 25 countries.
Indian Ocean Conference
It has been initiated by Delhi based think tank India Foundation along with its partners from Singapore,
Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. It is annual conference that aims to bring together Heads of
States/Governments, Ministers, thought leaders, scholars, diplomats, bureaucrats and practitioners from
across the region on a single platform. So far, two successful editions of conference were hosted in 2016
and 2017 in Singapore and Sri Lanka respectively. Both Conferences were supported by Ministry of
External Affairs (MEA) of India and had seen participation from over 35 countries.
INS Vikramaditya for first time to be fitted with marine hydraulic system
India’s only aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya for the first time will be fitted with marine hydraulic system
to boost the air operations of the ship. It will be fitted with two marine hydraulic systems whose technical
terms go by “GS-1MF” and “GS-3”.
Key Facts
Marine hydraulic systems GS-1MF and GS-3 will be used for refuelling, cleaning and pressurisation of
hydraulic systems of aircraft and helicopters on board INS Vikramaditya. GS-1MF hydraulic system is
used in helicopters, while GS-3 is used in aircraft. The upgrades and sea trials these systems will be done
in India.
The system will be installed by Technodinamika, a subsidiary of Russia’s Rostec State Corporation by May
2019. Technodinamika specialises in development, manufacturing and after-sale servicing for systems and
equipment of civil and military aircraft.
INS Vikramaditya
Currently it is most powerful aircraft carrier of the Indian Navy. It was built in 1987 and had served the
Soviet navy (named as Baku). It was later renamed Admiral Gorshkov under the Russian navy. India had
purchased it in 2004 at cost of $2.3 billion and was commissioned in Indian Navy in November 2013 at
Severodvinsk in Russia.
INS Vikramaditya design is based on Kiev-class aircraft carriers. It is 284 metres long and 60 metres high
(high as 20-storeyed building). It weighs 40,000 tonnes and is biggest and heaviest ship in e Indian Navy.
Its air wing consists of 30 MiG 29K fighter jets and six Kamov helicopters. It is based at its home port at
Karwar in Karnataka.
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India’s first biofuel flight to fly from Dehradun to Delhi

India’s first flight using biofuel will fly from Dehradun (capital of Uttarakhand) to Delhi. The first ever
biofuel test flight was conducted by SpiceJet on its turborporp Q-400 plane. With this India will join elite
club of nations who have operated flight on alternative energy source like biofuel. Developed countries like
Canada, Australia and US have already conducted these test flights. India will be first developing nation to
experiment biofuel test flight.
Key Facts
SpiceJet operated first such biofuel flight from Dehradun to Delhi using alternative environment friendly
fuel for 10 minutes over Dehradun. Based on the result of test flight, second flight took off later to Delhi.
The objective this biofuel flight is to make air travel economical and bring some respite to airlines reeling under
high fuel price through use of alternate fuel. Moreover, use of biofuel has the potential to reduce aviation carbon
emissions by up to 80%. According to recent data from International Air Transport Association (IATA),
recent rising aviation fuel costs in India has eroded aviation sector’s profitability.
Global Scenario
The world’s first dedicated biofuel flight (by Dreamliner Boeing 787-9) was flown for first time from Los
Angeles (US) to Melbourne (Australia) in January 2018 by Australian carrier Qantas. The fuel for this 15-
hour flight was blended one and was 10% derived from industrial type of mustard seed. In 2011, Alaska
Airlines had operated some flights using biofuel made of 50% used cooking oil. Air carrier KLM also had
operated few biofuel flights between New York and Amsterdam in 2013.
Background
Biofuel is produced from vegetable oils, recycled grease, algae and animal fat. It is cleaner, environmental
friendly fuel that can be used as alternative in place of fossil fuels. To reduce its dependence on fossil fuels
and its imports, India is trying to promote biofuels. Ministry of New and Renewable Energy recently on
August 10, 2018 (World Biofuel Day 2018) had released National Policy on Biofuels 2018. Under it,
Government plans to triple ethanol production over the next four years. It also has set target of 20%
blending of ethanol in petrol by 2030.
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River Ganga drying up in summers due to groundwater depletion: Study

According to recent study conducted by IIT-Kharagpur, River Ganga has witnessed unprecedented low
levels of water in several lower reaches in last few summer seasons. The study was carried out under IIT-
KGP Science and Heritage Initiative (SANDHI) Initiative, which focuses on river systems and its
relationship with settlement system. It had used combination of satellite images of groundwater levels of
Ganga, numerical simulations and chemical analyses to draw the conclusion.
Highlights of Study
Drying of Ganga River in recent years during summer seasons is possibly related to groundwater
depletion in Gangetic aquifers. The decline of groundwater inflow (base flow) is also impacting health of
river. Present day base flow to Ganga from adjoining aquifers may be third or more of total river water
volume in pre-monsoon months. The base flow might have dipped by 50% from beginning of irrigation-
pumping phase in 1970s. In forthcoming summers, for next 30 years, groundwater contribution to river
Ganga will continue decreasing. This trend can lead to disastrous effect on riverine ecology and lead to
food scarcity for 115 million people in Ganga basin.
Significance of Study: It is of interest to hydrology, global change community and policymakers. It can
help general public understand wider implications of groundwater depletion. It also brings out scientific
reasons for the decreased flows of the river Ganga, especially in the lower reaches. The findings will be
extremely helpful in providing quantitative data for future planning of water resources projects in Ganga
basin.
August 28, 2018
India’s first biofuel flight was powered by jatropha seeds
India’s first first-ever environment friendly biofuel powered flight between Dehradun and Delhi was
propelled by blend of oil from jatropha seeds and aviation turbine fuel. The 43-minute flight was operated
by SpiceJet’s Bombardier Q-400 aircraft, with 20 officials and five crew members on board.
Key Facts
This plane had carried blend of 25% of bio jet fuel (derived from jatropha seeds) and 75% of aviation turbine
fuel (ATF) in one of the two engines of plane, while other carried only ATF. This flight was technological
demonstration that bio jet fuel can be used in flights. International standards permit a blend rate of up to
50% biofuel with ATF. The blend of bio jet fuel and ATF has potential to reduce fuel costs by 15-20%.
Significance
Bio jet fuel is greenhouse gas (GHG) neutral, carbon neutral, reduces air pollution. Capping its blending
with aviation turbine fuel will help to bring down import bill on crude oil. Moreover, commercialization of
aviation biofuel promises large-scale employment avenues both in formal and informal sector,
The use of bio jet fuel will help in reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by about 15% and sulfur
oxides (SOx) emissions by over 99%. It is expected to provide indigenous jet fuel supply security. Its usage
also offers superior engine performance and reduced maintenance cost for the airline operators.
Jatropha
Jatropha is drought-resistant perennial plant that can grow in marginal or poor soil. It is grows relatively
quickly and lives, produces seeds for 50 years. It is found to be growing in many parts of the country,
especially in rugged terrain and can survive with minimum inputs and easy to propagate.
It seeds has oil content of 37% which be combusted as fuel without being refined. It burns with clear
smoke-free flame. It has been tested successfully as fuel for simple diesel engine. Its oil also acts as
insecticide. Moreover, by-products of its seeds like press cake is good organic fertilizer. Jatropha also has
medicinal properties and is used for diseases like cancer, piles, snakebite, paralysis, dropsy etc.
Aviation biofuel derived from Jatropha seeds
It was indigenously developed by Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) lab based in
Dehradun along with Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP). Its experiment was started in 200 and took
nearly eight years to make its use practical.
AESF-IV: 4th Asian electoral stakeholders forum held in Colombo, Sri Lanka
The fourth edition of Asian electoral stakeholders forum (AESF-IV) was held Colombo, Sri Lanka to discuss
the state of elections and democracy in the region. This was for first time AESF was held in South Asia. It
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was jointly organised by Election Commission of Sri Lanka and Asian network for free elections (ANFREL).
AESF-IV
The theme of AESF-IV was ‘Advancing Election Transparency and Integrity: Promoting and Defending
Democracy Together‘. It was attended by more than 250 delegates from 45 countries. India was represented
by Chief Electoral Officer of Maharashtra Ashwini Kumar and NGO.
It covered wide array of crucial election issues like current state of democracy in Asia, common electoral
challenges in the region, and various good practices employed to make elections better. It culminated with
endorsement of landmark document, urging election stakeholders from within Asia and beyond to
promote and defend democracy in the region.
Asian electoral stakeholders forum (AESF)
ASEF is the largest gathering of election management bodies (EMBs) and civil society organizations
(CSOs) in Asia. It is being held in order to secure the broad establishment of democracy and security when
holding elections within the region.
It provides opportunity for Asian election commissions, election observers, non-government
organizations (NGOs) and interstate bodies to gather and discuss state of elections and democracy in the
region. It also provides platform for institutionalizing capacity building efforts to pave the way for more
meaningful and credible election through cooperation among stakeholders.
Previous AESF gatherings were instrumental in setting
ramkishan gugulotu benchmarks
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | and guidelines on conducting truly
democratic elections which respect internationally recognized human rights and election principles and
norms. The first AESF was held in Thailand in 2012 and had endorsed Bangkok Declaration on Free and
Fair Elections. The second AESF was held in Dili, Timor Leste in 2015 and had established Dili Indicators of
Democratic Elections. The third AESF was held in 2016 in Bali, Indonesia which had framed Bali
Commitment: Eight Keys to Electoral Integrity.
August 29, 2018
NVIDIA made deep learning technology partner of NITI Aayog for MoveHack
Union Government’s premier think tank NITI Aayog has made computer chip manufacturer NVIDIA its
deep learning technology partner to support its MoveHack event. MoveHack is global mobility hackathon
event organized by NITI Aayog to crowdsource solutions aimed at the future of mobility in India.
Deep learning technology: It is subset of machine learning (ML) in artificial intelligence (AI) that has networks
capable of learning unsupervised from data that is unstructured or unlabelled.
Key Facts
As deep learning technology partner, NVIDIA will help NITI Aayog to solve grand challenge of making
innovations in mass mobility matter of national importance using Artifical Intellegence (AI) and deep
learning. It will provide participants in MoveHack event with graphics processing unit (GPU) and deep
learning technologies, as well as remote access to NVIDIA DGX systems, purpose built deep learning
supercomputers. Moreover, participants will also get a chance to be mentored by experts from the chip-
making company.
Government inks $250 million loan agreement World Bank for Electricity Distribution Sector Reforms in
Rajasthan
Central Government along with Government of Rajasthan has signed $250 million Development Policy
Loan (DPL) agreement with World Bank for Electricity Distribution Sector Reforms in Rajasthan. The loan
will be provided by World Bank’s lending arm International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
(IBRD). It has maturity of 21 years and 3-year grace period.
Electricity Distribution Sector Reforms Program
The loan proceeds will support Rajasthan Government in improving performance of its electricity
distribution sector under State’s 24×7 Power for All program. This loan was second in the series of two
operations planned for comprehensive turnaround of Rajasthan’s electricity distribution sector. The first
loan was closed in March 2017.
Key areas of reforms program
Strengthen Governance in Distribution Sector in state by establishing Annual Performance MoUs
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between DISCOMs and the State Government.

Put in place Performance Management System.
Provide incentives to employees for improving performance.
Financial Restructuring and recovery in Sector by transferring considerable amounts of DISCOMs
debt to State.
Bring in more discipline in revenue requirements of DISCOMs.
Take initiatives in reducing the costs of energy procurement.
Improve operational performance of DISCOMs through initiatives like publishing feeder level
energy audits and increased usage of IT among others.
Significance
This program is aligned to Broader Reform Program developed by Central Government and adopted by
Rajasthan Government to improve performance of DISCOMs in the State. This will contribute to state’s
fiscal sustainability and achieve objective of 24×7 Power for All initiative, which aspires to provide
continuous, reliable power supply to all households in Rajasthan by 2019. It will also help to deepen
Institutional and Operational Reforms that were launched in late 2015 centered around Central
Government’s Ujwal DISCOM Assurance Yojna (UDAY), for which Rajasthan had joined in 2016. It also
supports Rajasthan State Electricity Distribution Management Responsibility (RSEDMR) Act, which aims
to reform the Governance of DISCOMs and bring greater public accountability in their functioning. The
improved financial health of DISCOMS through these initiatives will help to free-up state’s resources for
spending on social sectors, allowing for businesses to grow and jobs to be created.
Punjab Assembly passes bills to make desecration of religious texts punishable with life term
Punjab Legislative Assembly has unanimously passed Indian Penal Code (Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2018
and Code of Criminal Procedure (Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2018 to make sacrilege of all religious texts
punishable with life imprisonment. This comes week after State Cabinet chaired by Chief Minister
Arminder Singh approved the amendments. Besides, Justice (retired) Ranjit Singh Commission report on
incidents of desecration of religious texts was also tabled in the assembly.
Key Highlights
These Bills amends Indian Penal Code (IPC) and Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) to add necessary
provisions. IPC (Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2018 inserts section 295AA to IPC which says that whoever
causes injury, damage or sacrilege to holy religious texts with intention to hurt religious feelings of
people, will be punished with imprisonment for life. The main objective of making sacrilege of religious
texts punishable offence with life imprisonment is to preserve communal harmony in the society.
Background
Previously Punjab assembly in 2016, when the previous SAD-BJP government was in power, had also
passed Indian Penal Code (Punjab Amendment) Bill, 2016 and Code of Criminal Procedure (Punjab
Amendment) Bill, 2016. The amendments at that time were approved to seek life imprisonment for
desecration of Guru Granth Sahib, holy book of Sikhs which is considered as a living guru in Sikhism.
President had refused to grant assent after Centre had raised objections to these Bills. Centre had raised
objection, saying punishment of life imprisonment could not be limited to desecration of holy book of just
one religion and should instead be for all religions. Both of these earlier bills now stand withdrawn with
passage of new Bills.
Government inks $300 million agreement with World Bank to scale-up Energy Efficiency Program
Union Government (Finance Ministry) has inked $220 million Loan Agreement with World Bank to scale-
up Inida’s Energy Efficiency Program. It also signed $80 million guarantee agreement with World Bank.
The loan will be provided to EESL by World Bank through its lending arm International Bank for
Reconstruction and Development (IBRD). It has maturity of 19 years and 5-year grace period. The $80
million IBRD guarantee will partially cover re-payment risks to commercial lenders or investors to enable
EESL to raise funds for its program.
Energy Efficiency Program (EEP)
It will be implemented by Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL). It will help to scale-up deployment of
energy saving measures in residential and public sectors, strengthen EESL’s institutional capacity and
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enhance its access to commercial financing. Under it, EESL will deploy 219 million LED bulbs and tube
lights, 5.8 million ceiling fans, and 7.2 million street lights, which will be supplied by private sector
manufacturers and suppliers.
Key Components of Program
Create sustainable markets for LED lights and energy efficient ceiling fans.
Facilitate well-structured and scalable investments in public street lighting.
Develop sustainable business models for emerging market segments such as super-efficient air
conditioning and agricultural water pumping systems.
Strengthen institutional capacity of EESL.
Increase private sector participation in energy efficiency, including through private sector energy
service companies.
Significance
The World Bank investments under this program are expected to avoid lifetime greenhouse gas emissions
of 170 million tons of CO2. It will also contribute to avoiding an estimated 10 GW of additional generation
capacity. This will help to achieve 50% of National Mission for Enhanced Energy Efficiency target of 19.6
GW indicated in India’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) under 2015 Paris Agreement (India
has committed to reduce carbon emissions by 33-35% by 2030 under NDC). Thus, help India to move
further towards a more resource-efficient growth path. It will help tackle financing, awareness, technical
and capacity barriers faced by new energy efficiency programs and also support Unnat Jyoti by Affordable
LEDs for All (UJALA) program of Central Government.
Navlekha: Google unveils new platform for Indic language publishers
Search engine giant Google has unveiled Project Navlekha to make online content relevant for more
Indian users especially in local languages. It was unveiled along with host of upgrades of Google’s other
products at fourth ‘Google for India’ event held in New Delhi. India is important market for Google as it is
second largest population of internet users in the world. At present, amount of online content in Indian
languages is only 1% of what is available in English.
Project Navlekha
Navlekha is word derived from Sanskrit meaning “a new way to write.” This project aims to bring 135,000
local language publishers online by making web hosting smooth and simple. It will allow local publishers
who do not have websites to make their offline content fit for online publishing in less than a minute. It
also comprises tool that uses Artificial Intelligence (AI) to allow publishers to simply scan documents or
PDFs and create instant web pages on the platform. No expert digital knowledge is required in the
process. Under Navlekha project, Google will help these publishers to receive training and support and a
branded page domain for the first three years.
Satya Tripathi appointed as Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the New York Office of UNEP
Indian development economist and environment expert Satya S. Tripathi was appointed as has been
appointed assistant secretary general of United Nations and will head New York office of UN Environment
Programme (UNEP). He was appointed by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres.
Satya Tripathi
Tripathi holds commerce and law bachelors degrees and masters in law from Berhampur University in
Odisha. He has rich experience of over 35 years with UN and has worked at UN since 1998 in Europe, Asia
and Africa on strategic assignments in sustainable development, human rights, democratic governance
and legal affairs. Since 2017, he has been senior adviser to UNEP on 2030 Agenda for Sustainable
Development. He also had served as UN Recovery Coordinator for $7 billion post-tsunami and post-
conflict recovery efforts in Aceh and Nias in Indonesia. He also had chaired Committees on Laws and
Treaties for the UN-mediated Cyprus unification talks in 2004. He also has served as director and
executive head of UN Office for Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation in
Developing Countries (REDD)+ Coordination in Indonesia.
Note: Satya Tripathi is possibly third-highest ranking Indian in UN bureaucracy at present after Atul
Khare, an under-secretary general who heads department of operations and Nikhil Seth who is assistant
secretary general and had headed Geneva-based UN Institute for Training and Research in 2015.
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Horizon 2020: India, EU join hands for research programme to develop a next generation influenza
vaccine
Union Government and European Union (EU) have collaborated for research programme named Horizon
2020 to develop Next Generation Influenza Vaccine to protect citizens across the globe. For this research
programme, India’s Department of Biotechnology (DBT) and EU have committed Euro 15 million (Rs. 240
crore).
Horizon 2020 research project
Under this project, cost-effective and affordable influenza vaccine will be developed. It aims at advancing
the efficacy, safety, duration of immunity, and reactivity against an increased breadth of influenza strains.
Rs. 240 crore fund has been earmarked for research and innovation actions under this project.
The vaccine will be developed by EU-India consortia by bringing together multi-disciplinary stakeholders
who represent any part of chain from lab to market. It will comprise minimum of three applicants from
Europe (three different EU member states) or countries associated to EU programme Horizon 20202 and
minimum three applicants from India. Other countries are also free to join this EU-India consortia.
Significance
The outcome of this project is expected to contribute to achievement of Sustainable Development Goal 3
(SDG-3) to ensure health and well-being for all. It will help international community to better prepare in
the event of an influenza pandemic. It will also give boost India’s National Health Mission.
Government asks States to ban e-cigarettes
Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare issued advisory to all states and Union Territories to not
allow manufacture, sale and advertisement of e-cigarettes and other Electronic Nicotine Delivery Systems
(ENDS). It also has issued warning that use e-cigarettes and other ENDS devices pose great health risk to
public at large, especially to children and pregnant women. Punjab, Karnataka, Kerala, Mizoram, Jammu
and Kashmir, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar already have prohibited manufacture, import, sale and distribution
of e-cigarettes and ENDS.
e-cigarettes and ENDS
ENDS are devices that heat solution to create aerosol, which also frequently contains flavours, usually
dissolved into propylene glycolor and glycerin. e-cigarettes (electronic cigarettes) are most common
prototype of ENDS. These devices do not burn or use tobacco leaves but instead vaporise solution, which
user then inhales. The main constituents of solution are nicotine, propylene glycol (with or without
glycerol and flavouring agents).
Health Ministry Advisory
According to World Health Organisation (WHO) report on Global Tobacco Epidemic 2017, 30 countries like
Mauritius, Australia, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Brazil, Mexico, Uruguay, Bahrain, Iran,
Saudi Arabia and UAE have already banned ENDS.
ENDS including e-cigarettes, heat-not-burn devices, vape, etc. are great health risk to public at large,
especially to children, adolescents, pregnant women and women of reproductive age. ENDS are not
approved as NRTs (nicotine-replacement therapies) under Drugs and Cosmetics Act and rules made
thereunder.
ENDS solutions and emissions contain other chemicals, some of them considered to be toxicants. They
contain nicotine, addictive component of tobacco products. In addition they contain metals, including
lead, chromium and nickel and chemicals like formaldehyde with concentrations equal to or greater than
traditional cigarettes.
Use of ENDS may affect development of foetus during pregnancy. It may contribute to cardiovascular
disease to people who use ENDS. Moreover, nicotine may function as ‘tumour promoter’ and seems to be
involved in biology of malignant diseases. Foetal and adolescent nicotine exposure have long-term
consequences for brain development, potentially leading to learning and anxiety disorders.
Government constitute 21-member Prime Minister’s Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory
Council
Union Government has constituted new 21-member advisory panel on science, technology and innovation
called Prime Minister’s Science, Technology and Innovation Advisory Council (PM-STIAC). It will be
headed by Principal Scientific Advisor to government K Vijay Raghavan. It will replace earlier Scientific
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Advisory Committee to Prime Minister and to Cabinet.

PM-STIAC
The council will advise PM on science, technology, as well as innovation. It will also coordinate
implementation of PMs scientific vision. It will actively aid in formulation and timely implementation of
major science and technology missions and evolve interdisciplinary technology development
programmes. It will also advise government on developing ‘Clusters of Excellence’ in science including
city-based R&D clusters. It will work to bring together all science and technology partners from academia
and institutes to industries near such centres or cities.
Composition of PM-STIAC
It has nine members, including Chairperson. Apart from nine members, it will also have twelve special
invitees — eleven ex officio secretaries 10 central ministries, related to science, technology, energy and
education, are special invitees to the panel. Members of PM-STIAC are including Dr VK Saraswat (member
of NITI Aayog and former director general of Defence Research and Development Organisation), Dr AS
Kiran Kumar (former chairman of Indian Space Research Organisation), Maj Gen Madhuri Kanitkar (dean
of Armed Forces Medical College, Pune), Manjul Bhargava (professor at Princeton University and a Fields
medal winner), Subhash Kak (professor at Oklahoma State University), Baba Kalyani (managing director of
Bharat Forge), AS Kiran Kumar (former ISRO chief) and Ajay Sood (Professor at Indian Institute of Science,
Bengaluru). ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Gaganyaan Mission: ISRO unveils plans for India’s manned space flight mission
Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) unveiled details of its first indigenous human space mission
dubbed as Gaganyaan to be launched in 2022. The mission was announced by Prime Minister Narendra
Modi during his 72nd Independence Day speech. Under it, three Indian astronauts (Gaganyatris) will be
taken to space on board Gaganyaan spacecraft by 2022.
This will be the first human space mission to be indigenously developed by ISRO. If successful, India will
become fourth nation in the world to send astronaut into space after US, Russia and China. Former Indian
Air Force (IAF) Rakesh Sharma was first Indian to travel to space. He was part of the Soviet Union’s Soyuz
T-11 expedition, launched on April 2, 1984, of the Intercosmos programme.
Objectives of Gaganyaan Mission: Enhance of science and technology levels in the country, serve as
national project involving several institutes, academia and industry, improve of industrial growth, inspire
youth, develop technology for social benefits and improve international collaboration.
Key Features of Mission
The entire cost of Gaganyaan mission will be less than Rs 10,000 crore. It will be totally indigenous, very
cost-effective mission by Indian standards which is not viable from international standards. Prior to
actual launch of this manned mission by 2022, ISRO will launch two unmanned Gaganyaan missions (first
in 30 months’ time and then 36 months).
Launch Phase: GSLV Mk-III launch vehicle will be used to launch Gaganyaan as it has necessary payload
capability for this mission. The spacecraft will comprise of crew module and service module that
constitute orbital. It weighs approximately 7 tonnes and will be placed in low earth orbit (LEO) of 300-400
km. Crew module’s size will be 3.7 meters and of service module will be 7 meters.
Orbital Phase: The mission will send three-member crew to space for period of five to seven days. The
launch vehicle will take off from spaceport of Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh and it will reach desired orbit in
16 minutes. The crew will be selected by Indian Air Force (IAF) and ISRO jointly after which they will
undergo training for two-three years. It will conduct microgravity experiment during the mission.
Re-entry phase: The velocity of whole module will be reduced and will be turned in opposite direction so
that it can start to come down. When it will reach distance of 120 km from Earth’s surface, service module
will be removed and separated out. The module carrying crew alone will come back to earth, this will take
about 36 minutes to reach Earth. ISRO is planning to land crew module in Arabian Sea, closer to Gujarat
coast or in Bay of Bengal or even on land from where the crew will be recovered
Execution time: The mission may be executed six months before India completes its 75th Independence
Day in 2022. It is expected to be completed before 2022.
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Support technology developed by ISRO for Gaganyaan Mission

So far, ISRO has developed some critical technologies required manned space mission like re-entry
mission capability, crew escape system, crew module configuration, thermal protection system,
deceleration and floatation system and sub-systems of life support system. Some of these technologies
have been demonstrated successfully through Space Capsule Recovery Experiment (SRE-2007), Crew
module Atmospheric Reentry Experiment (CARE-2014) and Pad Abort Test (2018). These technologies will
enable ISRO in accomplishing programme objectives in short span of 4 years.
August 30, 2018
Arpinder Singh wins gold medal in Men’s Triple Jump event at 2018 Asian Games
India’s Arpinder Singh (25) won gold medal in Men’s Triple Jump event at 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Asian
Games. He lodged best jump of 16.77m in third attempt to win gold medal. Ruslan Kurbanov of Uzbekistan
won silver medal with best jump of 16.62m while Shuo Cao of China was third with an effort of 16.56m.
With this, Arpinder Singh became first Indian in 48 years to win gold in men’s triple jump at the Asian
Games. India’s last Asian Games gold medal in men’s triple jump had come in 1970 from Mohinder Singh
Gill.
Arpinder Singh
He hails from Punjab. He had last won medal in a multi-sporting event in 2014 when he had won bronze
medal at the Glasgow Commonwealth Games. He had finished fifth in 2014 Incheon Asian Games.
Medals won
Bronze medal: 2013 Pune Asian Championships
Bronze medal: 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games
Gold medal: 2017 Ashgabat Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games
Arunachal Pradesh Assembly passes bill for creation of 3 new districts
Arunachal Pradesh Legislative assembly has passed Arunachal Pradesh Re-Organisation of Districts
(Amendment) Bill, 2018 for the creation of three new districts, Pakke-Kesang, Lepa Rada and Shi Yomi in
the state. The bill was passed by voice vote. These new districts were created keeping in view growing
demands of people, bring administration to their door-steps and for all-round equal development in all
parts of the state. With addition of these three new districts, state will have total 25 districts from earlier
22 districts
Key Facts
Pakke-Kessang district: It will be carved out of East Kameng district with five administrative units
namely Pakke-Kessangn, Seijosa, Pijiriang, Passa Valley and Dissingn Passo with district headquarters at
Lemmi.
Lepa Rada district: It will be created by bifurcating Lower Siang district with headquarters at Basar. It
will have four administrative units Tirbin, Basar, Daring and Sago.
Shi-Yomi district: It will be created by bifurcating West Siang district with its headquarters at Tato. It will
have four administrative units namely Mechuka, Tato, Pidi and Manigong.
Vostok-2018: Russia to conduct largest military exercise in September 2018
Russia is going to conduct Vostok-2018 (East-2018) military exercise in central and eastern Russian
military districts from September 11 to 15, 2018. It will be biggest war games ever conducted by Russia
since Zapad-81 (West-81) exercise conducted by erstwhile Soviet Union in 1981 which had seen
involvement about 100,000 to 150,000 troops.
Vostok-2018
Vostok-2018 will involve participation of units from Russian Army, Air Force and Navy. More than
300,000 troops, 36,000 tanks, armoured personnel carriers, armoured infantry vehicles, over 1,000
military aircraft, two naval fleets and all its airborne units will participate in this military exercise. China
and Mongolia will also participate in Vostok 2018.
Comment
Vostok-2018 exercise is being conducted in response to aggressive and unfriendly attitudes towards
Russia by NATO and West countries. Tensions between Moscow and NATO had been running high since
Russian annexation of Crimea from Ukraine in early 2014 and Russia backed uprising in eastern Ukraine,
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alleged meddling in US presidential elections of 2016 and nerve agent attack on ex-spy Sergei Skripal and
his daughter Yulia in UK in March 2018, which have resulted in sharp escalations. NATO has also stepped
up deployment of forces in East Europe and Russia has increased its naval presence in Mediterranean Sea
off Syria. Moreover, involvement of China will be also significant and also improve Chinese-Russian
military relations, as well as to prevent Chinese concern about military exercises near their border.
Swapna Barman wins India’s first gold medal in Heptathlon Athletics in Asian Games
Indian athlete Swapna Barman (21) won gold medal in women’s Heptathlon Athletics event at 18th edition
of Asian Games held in Jakarta-Palembang in Indonesia. She accumulated total of 6026 points to finish on
top of podium in the final of the event. With this, she became first Indian to win gold medal in heptathlete
event in Asian Games. Qingling Wang from China won silver medal with a point tally of 5954 and Yuki
Yamasaki of Japan won bronze medal with a score of 5873 points.
Heptathlon
It is seven-event contest which covers range of track and field events and is spread over two days. The first day
comprises 100m hurdles, high jump, shot put and 200m, while day two has long jump, javelin and 800m.
Swapna Barman
She hails from Jalpaiguri, West Bengal. Her father works as van rickshaw puller and her mother works as
labourer in tea estate. She is supported by GoSports
ramkishan Foundation through
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | Rahul Dravid Athlete Mentorship
Programme. She has six toes on each of her foot.
Medals won
Gold medal: 2017 Bhubaneswar Asian Championships
Gold medal: 2017 New Delhi Federation cup.
ADB to $245 million provide loan for safe, sustainable drinking water service in West Bengal
Asian Development Bank (ADB) has approved financing package of $245 million to implement project for
providing safe, sustainable drinking water service to million people in three districts of West Bengal
affected by arsenic, fluoride, and salinity. The project will provide continuous potable water through
metered connections to about 390,000 individual households in three districts of North 24 Parganas,
Bankura and Purba Medinipur. This project will play pivotal role in reducing burden of disease from arsenic
and fluoride while preserving groundwater and enhancing climate resilience.
Key Facts
Through this project, potable water will be provided through bulk water systems, consisting of intakes,
water treatment plants and transmission mains that will be connected to grid with existing and new
systems in these three districts. The project will use high-technology based smart water management
system to efficiently manage services. It will be first of its kind technology to be used for large scale rural
water schemes in India.
The total cost of project is $349 million, for which ADB will provide loan of $240 million and grant of $3
million will be provided from Japan Fund for Poverty Reduction financed by Government of Japan. The
West Bengal government will provide $106 million in funding. The project is due for completion in June
2024. This project will play important role in capacity building of institutions and stakeholders involved in
delivering drinking water services.
Background
High arsenic and fluoride levels in drinking water are serious threat to public health in India. About 85% of
water in India’s rural areas comes from groundwater and around 27 million people are at risk from arsenic
and fluoride contamination. West Bengal is by far worst affected state in high arsenic and fluoride levels in
drinking water in India. Arsenic in drinking water can lead to range of serious health problems including
cancer, while high exposure to fluoride can cause dental or skeletal fluorosis and bone diseases.
Call for Code initiative: IBM partners with Indian IT companies to build global solutions for disaster
management
Global IT giant IBM has partnered with Indian IT companies for its ‘Call for Code’ initiative that aims to
build global solutions for disaster management. Indian IT companies that will partner with IBM for Call
for Code initiative include Persistent Systems, Invest India, Wipro, Capgemini and NASSCOM.
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Call for Code initiative

IBM’s Call for Code initiative aims to bring startup, academic and enterprise developers together to
respond to and recover from natural disasters. The initiative seeks to solve one of the most pressing
societal issues of preventing, responding to and recovering from natural disasters. For this, IBM provide
access to its cloud, data, Artificial Intelligence and blockchain technologies, along with training and code
to developers. Through this initative, IBM and David Clark Cause are joining forces to benefit their
charitable partners such as United Nations Human Rights and American Red Cross. Since its inception in
May 2018, over 35 organizations and over 20 IBM clients have participated in this initiative.
Assam Government extends AFSPA in the state for 6 more months
Governor of Assam has extended application of Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) in the
entire state for six more months with immediate effect. For this, it used powers conferred under Section 3
of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 declaring entire state as ‘Disturbed Area’ upto 6 months or
unless withdrawn earlier.
Reason for extension
This decision was taken as precautionary measure to maintain law and order during ongoing National
Register of Citizens (NRC) update process during the ongoing National Register of Citizens (NRC) update
process. The final draft NRC is likely to be published by end of 2018. In September 2017, Union Home
Ministry had delegated to Assam and Manipur Governors
ramkishan gugulotu power to
| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | impose or withdraw AFSPA.
Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA)
AFSPA was enacted in 1958 to bring ‘disturbed’ areas declared under it under control. It empowers both
state and central government to declare areas as ‘disturbed’ due to differences or disputes between
members of different religious, racial, language or regional groups or castes or communities.
Declaration of Disturbed area: The section (3) of the Act empowers governor of State/UT to issue an
official notification in Gazette of India, following which Centre has authority to send in armed forces for
civilian aid. Once declared ‘disturbed’, the region has to maintain status quo for a minimum of three
months.
Special powers to armed forces: The Act gives special powers to army and state and central police forces
to shoot to kill, search houses and destroy any property used by insurgents in disturbed areas. It also
provides army personnel with safeguards against malicious, vindictive and frivolous prosecution.
Note: At present, the AFSA has been enforced in 6 states viz. Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh (only
the Tirap, Changlang and Longding districts plus 20-km belt bordering Assam), Manipur (except Imphal
municipal area), Meghalaya (confined to 20-km belt bordering Assam) and Jammu and Kashmir.
Government launches third edition of Smart India Hackathon 2019
Union Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) has third edition of Smart India Hackathon 2019
(SIH-2019). Smart India Hackathon is world’s biggest open innovation model which aims to provide
students with platform to solve some of pressing problems faced by people in their daily lives. It also
seeks to inculcate culture of product innovation and mindset of problem-solving among young children.
Key Highlights
SIH-2019 is expected to witness participation from over one lakh students from around 3000 institutions
across the country. It will provide students opportunity to work on challenges faced by public sector
organisations and union ministries. For the first time, SIH-2019 in the series of such events will also
include problem statements from private sector and non-governmental organisations (NGOs).
Similar to its prequel editions, SIH- 2019 will have two sub-editions viz. software edition which will be 36-
hour software product development competition and hardware edition which will be five days long
hardware product development competition.
SIH-2019 will also see students from IITs, IISc, NITs, AICTE and UGC approved institutions compete to
creatively solve problems and offer technical solutions. It will provide platform for both students who will
get chance to create world class solutions for some of world’s top organisations and these top
organisations will also get chance to meet brightest young minds and brand themselves from hiring
perspective.
Benefits of SIH
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Provide opportunity to brand your organization nationally

Provide recognition and visibility to organizations across all technical institutions in India
Young techies from all over the country will get platform to offer out-of-the-box solutions to solve
problems
Serve as world’s biggest Open Innovation Movement
Provide opportunity to work with some of the best talent in the country
Technology students across India can compete to creatively solve problems and offer technical
solutions
Harness expertise of lakhs of students from IISc, IITs, NITs and AICTE/UGC approved institutions
Background
The earlier two editions of Smart India Hackathon (SIH) had turned out to be a huge success. SIH 2017 had
seen problem statements coming from 29 union ministries of India. Among the top ideas, 20 projects were
mentored and creatively developed and they will be now handed over to concerned ministries for actual
deployment. SIH 2018 has seen participation of 27 union ministries and 17 state governments. It also had
introduced a special Hardware edition for first time.
ADB to provide US $375 million loan for Madhya Pradesh Irrigation Efficiency Improvement Project
Union Government has signed $375 million loan agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) for
Madhya Pradesh Irrigation Efficiency Improvement Project. The project will contribute to double farming
incomes in Madhya Pradesh by expanding irrigation networks and system efficiency.

Madhya Pradesh Irrigation Efficiency Improvement Project
It will develop 125,000 hectares of new, highly efficient and climate resilient irrigation networks. It will
also improve water use efficiency in more than 400 villages and benefit over 800,000 people in the state.
It will also support institutional innovations through introduction of design-build-operate contracting
approach. It will also help farmers to adopt micro-irrigated agriculture including high-value crops. The
ADB funds will be used to develop a large-scale pressurized and automated irrigation system for boosting
irrigation efficiency.
It focuses on two large irrigation systems
Kundalia irrigation project: It will develop 125,000 ha of new and highly efficient and climate
resilient irrigation networks. The work that will be undertaken includes building two large pumping
stations pumping water to distribution chambers where water will be distributed through a
network of buried pipes to farm outlets.
Sanjay Sarovar Irrigation Project: Under it comprehensive modernization feasibility study will be
prepared and other preparatory work for soundly designed project.
Asian Development Bank (ADB)
ADB is a regional development bank based out of Asia. It aims to promote social and economic
development in Asia by achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific,
while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty.
It was established in December 1966. It is headquartered at Ortigas Centre in Manila, Philippines. ADB’s
main objective is to assist its members and partners, by providing loans, technical assistance, grants, and
equity investments to promote social and economic development.
It has total 67 members, of which 48 are from within Asia and the Pacific and 19 outside. ADB has been
modelled closely on the lines World Bank. It has similar weighted voting system where votes are
distributed in proportion with members’ capital subscriptions.
First SAARC Agri Cooperative Business Forum held in Kathmandu, Nepal
The first South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC) Agri Cooperative Business Forum
was held in Kathmandu, capital of Nepal The theme of this forum was ‘Organizing and Strengthening Family
Farmers’ Cooperatives to attain the Sustainable-Development-Goals-1 and 2 in South Asia’.
SAARC Agri Cooperative Business Forum
It was co-organized by Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of United Nations and Asian Farmers’
Association with the support from International Fund for Agricultural Development. It provided platform
to bring together representatives both from government and non-governmental entities from member
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states of SAARC as well as from regional and international organizations.

South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC)
SAARC is regional intergovernmental organization and geopolitical union of nations in South Asia. Its
member states include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Maldives, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. It
comprises 3% of world’s area, 21% of world’s population and 3.8% of global economy as of 2015. It was
established in Dhaka, Bangladesh on 8 December 1985. Its secretariat is based in Kathmandu, Nepal. It
promotes development of economic and regional integration. It also maintains permanent diplomatic
relations at United Nations as an observer.
August 31, 2018
India inks $346 million loan agreement with ADB to improve State Highways in Karnataka
India has inked $346 million loan agreement with Asian Development Bank (ADB) to finance Karnataka
State Highways Improvement III Project (KSHIP-III) for improvement of over 400 km of state highways in
Karnataka. This will help in enhancement of connectivity and access to economic centres across 12
districts in Karnataka.
Karnataka State Highways Improvement III Project (KSHIP-III)
KSHIP-lll project will upgrade about 419 kilometers of state highways to two-and four-lane with paved
shoulders. It will also reconstruct, widen, and strengthen culverts and bridges. Use of hybrid annuity
contracts is important aspect of the project is to improve quality and sustainability of road assets with
performance-based maintenance period of 7 years, post-construction.

The project will also carry out road safety audit to identify and mitigate critical accident blackspots across
state highway network. It will also strengthen the institutional capacity of the Karnataka Public Works,
Ports, and lnland Water Transport Department.
The ADB Financing will be in addition to ongoing road improvement project financed by ADB with loan of
$315 million which involves upgradation of about 615 km of state roads. The new loan will continue ADB
support to Karnataka government’s statewide road improvement programme and will also help improve
road safety. This project will promote economic activities and foster inclusiveness.
Environment Ministry releases India’s National REDD+ Strategy
Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) has released National Reducing
Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD+) strategy for India. It aims at achieve
climate change mitigation by incentivizing forest conservation. This strategy will soon be communicated
to United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).
National REDD+ Strategy
It has been prepared by Indian Council of Forestry Research & Education (ICFRE), Dehradun. It is one of
tools to further supplement India’s commitment to 2015 Paris agreement. It will support empowerment of
youth cadres as community foresters to lead charge at local level. Under it, Green Skill Development
programme will be launched for imparting forestry-related specialised skills among the youth.
Significance: National REDD+ strategy will help India to fulfill its nationally determined contribution
(NDC) commitments and will also contribute to livelihood of forest dependent population. It will help to
enhance efforts for forest conservation and enhance productivity of forest eco-systems. It takes into
consideration important role played by tribals, other forest dwelling people and society as whole in
reiterating India’s commitment to Paris Agreement.
Background
Paris Agreement on Climate Change recognises role of forests in climate change mitigation and calls upon
participating nations to take action to implement and support REDD+. India its NDC to this agreement
has committed to capture 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) through additional efforts in
forestry sector. India’s first biennial update report to UNFCCC has revealed that forests in India capture
about 12% of India’s total GHG emissions. Thus, forestry sector in India is making positive cost effective
contribution for climate change mitigation.
Reducing Emissions from Deforestation and Forest Degradation (REDD)
REDD is set of steps designed to use market and financial incentives in order to reduce emissions of
greenhouse gases from deforestation and forest degradation. It is collaborative programme of Food and
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Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and United Nations
Environment Programme (UNEP). Its original objective is to reduce greenhouse gases but it is claimed
that it can deliver co-benefits such as biodiversity conservation and poverty alleviation.
REDD+ initiative goes beyond deforestation and forest degradation, and includes the role of conservation,
sustainable management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks. It aims at reducing
emissions from deforestation and forest degradation, conservation of forest carbon stocks, sustainable
management of forests and enhancement of forest carbon stocks in developing countries. It gives
emphasis to activities that will help in sustainable livelihood of local communities and also in conservation
of biodiversity.
6th RCEP Trade Ministers’ Meeting held in Singapore
The sixth Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Trade Ministers’ Meeting was held in
Singapore. Indian delegation was led by Union Minister of Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation
Suresh Prabhu.
Key Facts
This RCEP Trade Ministers’ Meeting will see participation of representatives from 10 ASEAN countries
and six ASEAN FTA partners namely, India, China, Japan, Korea, Australia and New Zealand. They will
give guidance to the Trade Negotiating Committee of RCEP to enable negotiations move forward. India
has been constructively engaged in RCEP negotiations with aim to work towards a high quality, balanced
and inclusive outcomes that take into consideration sensitivities and interests of member countries.
Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP)
RCEP is a proposed proposed free trade agreement (FTA) or comprehensive regional economic integration
agreement between the 10-ASEAN countries (Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar,
Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam) and its six FTA partners (Australia, New Zealand, India, China,
Japan and Korea).
The negotiations for this mega trade deal were formally launched at 2012 ASEAN Summit in Cambodia. It
aims to cover goods, services, investments, economic and technical cooperation, competition and
intellectual property rights under its ambit.
Till 2017, 16 RCEP member states accounted for population of 3.4 billion people with total GDP (in terms of
PPP) of $49.5 trillion, approximately 38% of the world’s GDP (combined GDPs of China and India makes up
more than half that amount) and 29% of world trade.
ASEAN is amongst the fastest growing markets in the world and presents substantial trade and
investments opportunities for India. It has emerged as second largest trade partner of India in 2017-18
with bilateral trade valued at US $ 81.33 billion, comprising 10.58% of India’s total trade with the world.
RCEP is viewed as alternative to the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), a proposed trade agreement that
includes several Asian and American nations but excludes China and India.
HRD Ministry launches Innovation Cell at AICTE
Union Ministry of Human Resource Development has established Innovation Cell at AICTE premises in
New Delhi. It aims to systematically foster culture of innovation in all Higher Education Institutions
(HEIs) across the country.
Innovation cell
Its primary mandate is to encourage, inspire and nurture young students by exposing them to new ideas
and processes resulting in innovative activities in their formative years fostered through network of
innovation clubs in HEIs. It will undertake major programs such as Network of Innovation Clubs (NIC),
Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA), Smart India Hackathon (SIH) 2019,
National Student Startup Policy (NSSP). It will prescribe basic framework for structure, formation,
structure and smooth running of ICs in each HEIs and share list of different activities which ICs need to
undertake for entire academic year.
Germany to provide Euro 120 million soft loan for Clean Ganga Mission
Germany has announced to provide soft loan of euro 120 million (Rs. 990 crore approximately) to India to
strengthen sewage water treatment infrastructure in Uttarakhand in an effort to clean River Ganga under
Clean Ganga Mission. German development agency GIZ also has prepared ‘Ganga Box’ aimed to target
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schools-going children and inform them about the river.

Key Facts
The proceeds from this soft loan will be used for project focusing on extension and replacement of
sewerage system (around 360 kilometres) including complete house connection, construction of sewage
treatment plants (STPs) of around 15 million litres per day (mld). The purpose of project is to reduce inflow
of untreated waste water in River Ganga and, thus, to improve the water quality of the river. This project
also includes construction of 13 sewage pumping stations.
Ganga book
Ganga book has been prepared on lines of ‘Danube Book’ when cleaning of European river was undertaken.
This book will have information mythological, socio-cultural, economic importance about river and
suggestions to avoid pollution, like not dumping plastic in water body. Its aim is to bring behavioural
change of people towards Ganga River. Ganga book project has been piloted in government schools in
Uttarakhand and it will be replicated in other states.
Union Government introduces Atal ranking for institutions to promote innovation
Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) has introduced Atal Ranking of Institutions on
Innovation Achievements (ARIIA) to systematically rank education institutions and universities primarily
on innovation related indicators. ARIIA aims to promote culture of innovation and research in higher
education. ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Atal Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA)

ARIIA is named after former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. It measures some parameters which are
India-specific considering current scenario and status of higher education in India. ARIIA parameters are
primarily organised in five broad heads which are further elaborated into suitable sub-heads. Each of five
main parameters has certain weightage assigned to it and sub-heads also have appropriate weight
distribution. The institutions will be rank-ordered based on scores. The overall score can take a maximum
value of 100.
Five main focus parameters of ARIIA are budget expenses and revenue generated through Innovation and
entrepreneurship development (weightage: 20), facilitate access to advance centres and facilities and
entrepreneurial support system (10), idea to entrepreneurship (54), development of innovation ecosystems
supported through teaching & learning (10) and best innovative solutions developed in-house for improving
governance of institution (6).
Significance
ARIIA will inspire Indian institutions to reorient their mind-set and build ecosystems to encourage high
quality research, innovation and entrepreneurship. It will focus on quality of innovations rather than
quantity and measure the real impact created by these innovations nationally and internationally. It will
set tone and direction for institutions for future development for making them globally competitive and in
forefront of innovation.
Department of Biotechnology inks MoU with IAE on Enhancing Innovation for Clean Energy Transition
Department of Biotechnology (DBT) under Union Ministry of Science and Technology has signed
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with International Energy Agency (IEA) for enhancing innovation
for Clean Energy Transition. The MoU seeks to deepen co-operation in support of clean energy
innovations to accelerate research, development, and demonstration (RD&D) of clean energy technologies
in India. It will also help support generation of data for policymaking and improve knowledge of good
policy practices for innovation in India and around the world.
Key Facts
The MoU will ensure cooperation for sharing of energy policies on RD&D and sharing of best practices on
data collection and analysis. It also has provision for activities such as training and capacity building and
accelerating energy innovation by identifying sources of finance. The MoU will be coordinated for Union
Ministry of Sceince & Technology by Mission Innovation India Unit set up by DBT and for IEA it will be
coordinated by its International Partnership and Initiatives Unit (IPI). It will be initially valid for three
years.
International Energy Agency (IEA)
IEA is an inter-governmental organization established in 1974 as per framework of Organisation for
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Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). It was established in the wake of the 1973 oil crisis after
the OPEC cartel had shocked the world with a steep increase in oil prices. Presently it has 30 member
countries including India. It is headquartered in Paris, France.
Its prime focus is on the “3Es” of effectual energy policy: energy security, economic development and
environmental protection. It also seeks to promote alternate energy sources (including renewable energy),
rational energy policies and multinational energy technology co-operation. It acts as energy policy advisor
to 29 member countries and also non-member countries like China and Russia.
4th BIMSTEC Summit held in Kathmandu, Nepal
The fourth Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)
summit was held in Kathmandu, capital of Nepal. The theme of the summit was ‘Towards a Peaceful
Prosperous, and Sustainable Bay of Bengal Region’. India was represented by Prime Minsiter Narendra Modi.
This was his fourth visit to Nepal after becoming Prime Minister in 2014
Key Facts
Enhancing collaboration in areas of regional connectivity, coastal shipping, space, energy, transport and
tourism were focus of the summit. Besides, countering terrorism, enhancing regional connectivity and
boosting trade were dominant agenda of 4th BIMSTEC summit.
Other leaders who attended this summit are Sri Lankan President Maithripala Sirisena, Myanmar
President U Win Myint, Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, Thailand’s Prime Minister Prayut
Chan-o-cha and Bhutan’s Chief Justice and Chief Advisor to interim government Dasho Tshering
Wangchuk.
Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC)
BIMSTEC is regional grouping of seven countries in South Asia and South East Asia lying in littoral and
adjacent areas of Bay of Bengal constituting contiguous regional unity. It was established on 6 June 1997
through Bangkok Declaration. It is headquartered in Dhaka, Bangladesh. The first BIMSTEC summit was
held in Thailand in 1997, second in India in 2008 and the third in 2014 in Myanmar.
Member countries: India, Nepal, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Sri Lanka from South Asia and Myanmar, Thailand
from South East Asia. They are collectively home to around 1.5 billion people which constitute around 22%
of global population and has a combined gross domestic product of $2.8 trillion.
BIMESTC’s prime objectives: Promote technological and economic cooperation among south Asian and
south East Asian countries along the coast of the Bay of Bengal. BIMSTEC is sector-driven cooperative
organization, starting with six sector including trade, technology, energy, transport, tourism and
fisheries. In 2008, it was expanded to embrace eight more sectors including agriculture, public health,
poverty alleviation, counter-terrorism, environment, culture, people to people contact and climate change.
India and BIMSTEC
India has been pushing for making BIMSTEC vibrant forum for regional collaboration as cooperation
under South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation (SAARC) framework is not moving forward. India
has been maintaining that it was difficult to proceed with SAARC initiative under current circumstances
citing continuing support to cross-border terrorism from Pakistan. Pakistan was also blocking
connectivity initiatives such as SAARC Motor Vehicles Agreement (MVA). BIMSTEC excludes Pakistan.
India is now pushing for similar pact motor vehicle agreement in BIMSTEC with an aim to enhance
regional trade.
India opens Zokhawthar immigration check-post in Mizoram along Myanmar border
India has opened Zokhawthar land immigration check-post in Mizoram along border with Myanmar. It
has been designated as authorised immigration centre for entry into and exit from India with valid travel
documents for all passengers to or from Myanmar. Zokhawthar will be second immigration check-post in
Mizoram along Myanmar border after Zorinpui check-post in Lawngtlai district which was opened in
September 2017.
Key Facts
India shares 1,643 km-long border with Myanmar which touches Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur
and Mizoram. It is fifth largest after Bangladesh (4,096.7 km), China (3,488 km), Pakistan (3,323 km) and
Nepal (1,751km). Earlier in August 2018, India and Myanmar opened the land border crossing at
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Zokhawthar-Rih. Zokhawthar is in Champhai district of Mizoram, while Rih is in Myanmar’s Chin

province. Zokhawthar border trading post is one of the largest trading centres after Mizoram’s state
capital Aizwal.
Exercise KAKADU 2018: INS Sahyadri reaches Port Darwin in Australia
Indian Naval Ship Sahyadri has reached Port of Darwin, Australia to participate in multilateral regional
maritime exercise KAKADU 2018 conducted by Australia. The ship was earlier deployed in South China
Sea and Pacific Ocean for over four months and had represented Indian Navy in multinational exercises
MALABAR 18 at Guam and RIMPAC 18 at Hawaii.
Exercise KAKADU
It is premier multilateral regional maritime engagement hosted by Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and
supported by Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). It was started in 1993. It is held biennially in Darwin and
Northern Australian Exercise Areas (NAXA). Exercise KAKADU derives its name from Kakadu National
Park, which is protected area in the northern territory of Australia and located 171 km south-east of
Darwin.
KAKADU 2018
KAKADU 2018 is fourteenth edition of exercise scheduled to be held between August 29 and September 18,
2018. It is aimed at enhancing inter-operability and development of common understanding of procedures
for maritime operations. It will see participation of 23 warships, |one submarine, 45 aircraft, 250 marines
ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
and approximately 52 foreign staff from over 25 different countries including India and China.
During the exercise, professional exchanges in harbour and diverse range of activities at sea, including
complex surface, sub-surface and air operations will be conducted for sharing of best practices and honing
of operational skills. Indian Navy’s participation in KAKADU-18 will provide it opportunity to engage with
regional partners and undertake multinational maritime activities ranging from constabulary operations
to high-end maritime warfare in combined environment.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. Which committee has been constituted by the Central government to coordinate the discharge
of floodwaters from Kerala-Tamil Nadu inter-State projects?
[A] Narendra Kumar committee
[B] Kirti Sharma committee
[C] Ajit Doval committee
[D] M S Das committee
Correct Answer: A [Narendra Kumar committee]
Notes:
The Central government has constituted a coordination committee headed by the Central Water
Commission Chairman “Narendra Kumar” to coordinate the discharge of floodwaters from inter-State
projects involving Kerala and Tamil Nadu, including Mullaperiyar and Aliyar. The Chairman of the CWC
will monitor the situation at Mullaperiyar dam in view of rising water level and continued heavy inflow.
2. Which telecom company has launched a VOIP based phone service “WINGS”?
[A] Airtel
[B] BSNL
[C] Reliance Jio
[D] Vodafone
Correct Answer: B [BSNL]
Notes:
The Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL) has launched a VOIP based service “WINGS”. In WINGS, there is
no SIM or cable wiring as is a VOIP service through an app. The WINGS service offers unlimited free
audio/video calling for one year. The service can be activated with a one-time fee of Rs. 1,099 (Rs 1,297
with GST). Calls can be made using any data connection such as wired broadband, Wi-Fi, 3G or 4G
network of any any operator. WINGS can also be used over Internet Leased Lines. The facility can be
used anywhere within the country and the app automatically uses the existing address book in the
phone. Unlike other app-based VOIP services such as WhatsApp and Telegram calls, the WINGS app can
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make calls to any phone number – free of cost. As there is no physical SIM, the number can be used as
the second number in phones without provision for second SIM. It can even be a third number in dual-
SIM phones.
3. The special film festival on theme “Freedom Struggle & Freedom Fighters” has been organized
by Films Division of India (FDI) in which city?
[A] Chennai
[B] Kolkata
[C] New Delhi
[D] Mumbai
Correct Answer: D [Mumbai ]
Notes:
On the occasion of 72nd Independence Day 2018, the special film festival on the theme “Freedom
Struggle and Freedom Fighters” has started in Mumbai on August 14. The festival was organized by
Films Division of India (FDI), a film production house belonging to the Ministry of Information and
Broadcasting (I&B). It was inaugurated by Rama Khandwala, nonagenarian freedom fighter and Indian
National Army (INA) veteran. During the festival, noteworthy documentary films on freedom struggle
and freedom fighters were screened. Some of them are as follows: Jawan Tujhe Salam, Gandhi – A
Universal Man, Netaji, Sardar Patel – The Iron Man, etc.
4. Which of the following has been ranked as India’s most patriotic brand , as per survey
conducted by UK-based online market research and data analytics firm YouGov?
[A] Patanjali
[B] State Bank of India
[C] Tata Motors
[D] Reliance Jio
Correct Answer: B [State Bank of India]
Notes:
As per survey conducted by UK-based online market research and data analytics firm YouGov, the State
Bank of India (SBI) has been ranked as the most patriotic brand, followed by Tata Motors, Patanjali,
Reliance Jio and BSNL. The survey, which covered 152 brands across 11 categories, is based on data
collected online by YouGov Omnibus among 1,193 respondents in the country between 2 August and 8
August using its panel of an online representation of India. In the financial sector, SBI lead the chart with
47% of the sector-share, followed by LIC with 16%. In the auto sector, Tata Motors emerged as the most
patriotic brand, followed by Bharat Petroleum (BP) and Maruti Suzuki. In terms of food brands, Amul
grabbed the top slot with one-third Indians considering it, followed by Patanjali. Nirma emerged as the
most patriotic brand in the homecare products category. In the beverages category, Tata Tea grabbed
the top rank with 35% respondents voting for it, followed by Taj Mahal with 18%.
5. Who has been sworn-in as the new President of Paraguay?
[A] Horacio Cartes
[B] Federico Franco
[C] Mario Abdo Benítez
[D] Fernando Lugo
Correct Answer: C [Mario Abdo Benítez]
Notes:
Mario Abdo Benítez has been sworn in as the new President of Paraguay after defeating his liberal rival
in 2018 April elections. He succeeded Horacio Cartes. Mr Abdo Benítez is the son of a close aide to ex-
military dictator Alfredo Stroessner & has faced criticism for defending the former leader’s record.
6. In which year, Atal Bihari Vajpayee became India’s prime minister for first time?
[A] 1997
[B] 1996
[C] 1998
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[D] 1995
Correct Answer: B [1996 ]
Notes:
Atal Bihari Vajpayee (93), the veteran leader, prolific writer and former Prime Minister of India, has
passed away in New Delhi on 16th August 2018. Born on 25th December 1924 in Gwalior, he was first
elected to the Lok Sabha in 1957 and had a long parliamentary experience spanning over four decades.
He was elected to the Lok Sabha nine times and two times for the Rajya Sabha. Vajpayee was the
Minister of External Affairs (MEA) in the cabinet of Prime Minister Morarji Desai. He served as the PM of
India between 1996 and 2004 in three non-consecutive terms viz. May 1996 (for 13 days), 1998–1999 (for
11 months) and 1999–2004. He was awarded the India’s highest civilian honour ‘Bharat Ratna’ in 2015.
His birthday is celebrated as the Good Governance Day (GGD) by the Central Government since 2014 to
foster awareness among the people of accountability in government.
7. Which city is hosting the 24th World Congress of Philosophy (WCP) 2018?
[A] Istanbul
[B] Beijing
[C] Seoul
[D] Athens
Correct Answer: B [Beijing] ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Notes:
China is hosting the 24th World Congress of Philosophy (WCP) 2018 in Beijing from August 13 with
theme “Learning To Be Human”. The purpose of the event is to contribute to the development of
professional relations between philosophers of all countries, promote philosophical education &
contribute to the impact of philosophical knowledge on global problems. More than 6,000 philosophers
and academics from 121 countries and regions are attending the event, which will be concluded on
August 20. Attendees will share diverse philosophical thoughts and take part in dialogues focusing on
major issues confronting the development of the global civilization, and challenges that mankind will
face in the future. The event is organized by the International Federation of Philosophical Societies, and
Peking University.
8. Which of the following Indian cities has been included in the 2018 Global Liveability Index,
which was released by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU)?
[A] Chennai and Pune
[B] Kolkata and Mysuru
[C] Kochi and Chandigarh
[D] Delhi and Mumbai
Correct Answer: D [Delhi and Mumbai ]
Notes:
Austrian capital Vienna has been ranked as the world’s most liveable city in a list of 140 global cities at
the 2018 Global Liveability Index, which was released by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU).
Melbourne has secured 2nd position followed by Osaka, Calgary and Sydney. Delhi (112) and Mumbai
(117) are only two Indian cities that are included in the EIU’s annual index. The Syrian capital ‘Damascus’
was ranked the least liveable city in the list of 140 cities, followed by Dhaka, Lagos and Karachi. The
index assigns cities scores on five broad parameters — stability, healthcare, culture/environment,
education, and infrastructure using 30 indicators. The EIU is part of UK magazine The Economist and
provides forecasting and advisory services through research and analysis.
9. Nihal Sarin, who has become the 53rd chess Grandmaster from India, belongs to which state?
[A] Kerala
[B] Assam
[C] Tamil Nadu
[D] Odisha
Correct Answer: A [Kerala]
Notes:
Nihal Sarin (14) from Kerala has become the 53rd Grandmaster of India and the 12th youngest
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grandmaster in chess history after attaining his third and final GM-norm in the Abu Dhabi Masters
2018. He tallied 5.5/9 with a rating performance of 2626 to secure his third GM norm.
10. In which year, Ajit Wadekar, who passed away recently, led the Indian team to historic test
series victories in West Indies and England?
[A] 1972
[B] 1970
[C] 1971
[D] 1974
Correct Answer: C [1971]
Notes:
Ajit Laxman Wadekar (77), the former Indian cricket captain, has passed away in Mumbai, Maharashtra
on August 15, 2018. He is best remembered for being the captain of the Indian team which won Test
series in England and the West Indies for the first time, in 1971. Wadekar scored 2,113 runs in his Test
career, including one hundred, and was also the country’s first ODI captain. Wadekar is the only
cricketer apart from Lala Amarnath and Chandu Borde to have served as captain, coach/manager and
selector in Indian cricket. He was bestowed the Arjuna Award in 1967 and India’s fourth highest civilian
honour, the Padmashri, in 1972.
11. The festival of the historic Esala Maha Perehera has started in which neighboring country of
India?
[A] Bhutan
[B] Myanmar
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] China
Correct Answer: C [Sri Lanka]
Notes:
The 10-day festival of the historic Esala Maha Perehera has started in Kandy, Sri Lanka on August 17
with a grand procession. The procession set off from the biggest Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka, Sri
Dalada Maligawa at an auspicious time. The Esala Perahera is one of the oldest and grandest of all
Buddhist festivals in Sri Lanka, featuring dancers, jugglers, musicians, fire-breathers and lavishly
decorated elephants. This is held in Esala (July or August) which is the month that is believed to
commemorate the first teaching given by the Buddha after he attained enlightenment. The purpose of
the procession is to beseech the blessings of the Gods to obtain rain for the cultivation of crops and to
enrich the lands of the kingdom. This ritual is performed by carrying the sacred tooth relic of the
Buddha through the streets and is considered as one of the most beautiful pageants in Asia. The festival
ends with the traditional diya-kepeema ritual, a water cutting ceremony which is held at the Mahaweli
River at Getambe, Kandy.
12. Which state is host to the 2018 International Conference on Recent Advances in Food
Processing Technology (iCRAFPT)?
[A] Karnataka
[B] Tamil Nadu
[C] Odisha
[D] Assam
Correct Answer: B [Tamil Nadu]
Notes:
On August 17, the 2018 International Conference on Recent Advances in Food Processing Technology
(iCRAFPT) has started at Indian Institute of Food Processing Technology (IIFPT), Thanjavur in Tamil
Nadu with theme “Doubling farmers’ income through food processing”. The 3-day conference is the
valuable and important platform for inspiring international and interdisciplinary exchange at the
forefront of food research. In it, internationally renowned speakers will share their research experiences
in the areas of advances in food engineering and its industrial applications, food product development,
food biotechnology, nano foods. The IIFPT is the premier national Institute working under the
administrative control of Ministry of Food Processing Industries (MoFPI) and its headquarters is located
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in Thanjavur.
13. Esow Alben, who scripted history by winning the India’s first junior cycling World Cup medal,
hails from which state/UT?
[A] Daman & Diu
[B] Gujarat
[C] Andaman & Nicobar Islands
[D] West Bengal
Correct Answer: C [Andaman & Nicobar Islands]
Notes:
Teen cyclist Esow Alben (17) has scripted history by winning the India’s first junior cycling World Cup
medal — a silver at the men’s keirin event in the UCI Junior Track Cycling World 2018. He put
enormous pressure on Czech Republic’s Jakub Stastny in the final sprint before settling for the silver
medal. Esow finished just 0.017 seconds behind gold medallist Stastny in the thrilling photo-finish of a
race. Alben, who hails from Andaman & Nicobar Islands, trains in Delhi at the Sports Authority of India
(SAI)’s National Cycling Academy (NCA). Esow is now the top-ranked junior cyclist for the sprint event
and is No. 3 for keirin, where the cyclists sprint for victory on a track following a controlled start.
14. Which IIT has decided to set up a Re-Water Research Center to replenish and rejuvenate water
resources?
[A] IIT Delhi
[B] IIT Kharagpur
[C] IIT Madras
[D] IIT Bombay
Correct Answer: B [IIT Kharagpur]
Notes:
The IIT Kharagpur has decided to set up a Re-Water Research Center to replenish and rejuvenate water
resources. It will be seed-funded by two alumni members – Aneesh Reddy & Aditya Choubey. The
purpose of the ‘Aditya Choubey Center for Re-Water Research’ is to tackle the challenge of resolving two
burning issues faced by urban India – sewage disposal and access to clean potable water. The institute
will set up an on-campus plant which will convert 1.35 million litre of sewage water from the hostels to
1.2 million litre of potable water, on a daily basis. The project is being developed to attract potential
entrepreneurs and government agencies to take up sewage treatment at a large scale and with a
business model for banks to gain confidence in funding such businesses. The pilot plant is expected to be
ready by March 2019.
15. Who is the newly appointed Chairman of Marine Products Export Development Authority
(MPEDA)?
[A] KS Srinivas
[B] BVR Subrahmanyam
[C] M S Mohan
[D] J K Nayak
Correct Answer: A [KS Srinivas]
Notes:
KS Srinivas, a 1997 batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre, has been appointed the new Chairman of Marine
Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA). Prior to this post, he served as Joint Secretary in
Department of Agriculture Cooperation and Farmers’ Welfare. The MPEDA was constituted in 1972
under the MPEDA Act 1972 and is headquartered at Kochi. It is given the mandate to promote the
marine products industry with special reference to exports from the country. It is also empowered to
carry out inspection of marine products, its raw material, fixing standards, specifications and training as
well as take all necessary steps for marketing the seafood overseas.
16. Who has been sworn-in as the new President of Mali?
[A] Alpha Oumar Konare
[B] Dioncounda Traore
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[C] Soumaila Cisse

[D] Ibrahim Boubacar Keita
Correct Answer: D [Ibrahim Boubacar Keita]
Notes:
Ibrahim Boubacar Keita has been re-elected as the new President of Mali for a five-year term after
winning a landslide in a runoff ballot. He picked up 67.17% of the vote against 32.83% for opposition
challenger and former finance minister Soumaila Cisse. Keita will take office on September and his
immediate challenges include strengthening a 2015 peace accord between the government, its allies, and
former Tuareg rebels. Mali is a landlocked nation home to at least 20 ethnic groups where the majority
of people live on less than $2 a day.
17. Legendary singer Aretha Franklin, who passed away recently, had performed at the
inaugurations of which of the following Presidents of the United States?
[A] George W. Bush
[B] Donald Trump
[C] Jimmy Carter
[D] Ronald Reagan
Correct Answer: C [Jimmy Carter] ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Notes:
Aretha Franklin (76), the legendary US singer and pianist, has passed away in Michigan, U.S on August
16, 2018. The “Queen of Soul” was born in Memphis, Tennessee, and made her debut in 1961. Her style on
such hits as “Respect” and “Natural Woman” attracted fans all over the world. She received the Grammy
Award 18 times and was the first female vocalist to be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.
Franklin performed at the inaugurations of three Presidents of the United States — Jimmy Carter, Bill
Clinton, and Barack Obama.
18. Rajabhau Godse, who passed away recently, was associated with which political party?
[A] INC
[B] BJP
[C] Shiv Sena
[D] NCP
Correct Answer: C [Shiv Sena]
Notes:
Rajabhau Godse (57), the former Shiv Sena Member of Parliament (MP) from Nashik , has passed away in
Nasik, Maharashtra on August 17, 2018. He was elected to the Lok Sabha from Nashik constituency in
1996. He had also been the city and district unit chief of the Sena after starting his political career as
Sarpanch of village Sansari in the district.
19. Which of the following cities is the venue of the 11th World Hindi Conference (WHC) 2018?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Port Louis
[C] Johannesburg
[D] Paramaribo
Correct Answer: B [Port Louis]
Notes:
The 11th World Hindi Conference 2018 (WHC) has started in Port Louis, the capital of Mauritius, with
theme “Hindi World and Indian Culture” on August 18. It was organized by the Ministry of External
Affairs (MEA), Government of India (GoI) in association with the Government of Mauritius. More than
2000 delegates from India and various countries of the world will deliberate on 8 subtopics on 2018
theme during the 3-day conference. The aim of the Conference is to expand the reach of the Hindi
language at a global level. The WHC was started in 1975 to make the Hindi language a medium of service
and knowledge and enable it to move forward with the time. Since then, Hindi has made remarkable
progress and it has become one of the prominent languages of the world.
20. India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) has revised India’s GDP growth to 7.2% for FY19. Ind-Ra
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belongs to which group?

[A] CRISIL
[B] Standard & Poor’s
[C] Moody’s Corporation
[D] Fitch
Correct Answer: D [Fitch]
Notes:
India Ratings and Research (Ind-Ra) has revised down India’s GDP growth to 7.2% for FY19 from 7.4%
earlier in its latest report titled ‘Mid-year FY19 Outlook’. The key reason for this is the upward revision
in the estimation of inflation for 2018-19 due to increasing crude oil prices and the government’s
decision to fix the minimum support prices of all kharif crops at 1.5 times the production cost. On rupee,
the rating agency stated that in 2018, rupee has already depreciated 7.7% till July in response to elevated
global turbulence, worsening of current account, rising inflation and concerns related to fiscal deficit. It
expects the aggregate fiscal deficit of the states to moderate to 2.8% of GDP. Ind-Ra is one of the India’s
most respected credit rating agency that provides ratings, research and rigorous analytics of market in
India. The headquarters of Ind-Ra is located in Mumbai and is belong to Fitch group.
21. The International team of scientists has recently cracked the genetic code of which cultivated
crop for the first time? ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[A] Wheat
[B] Rice
[C] Maize
[D] Pulses
Correct Answer: A [Wheat]
Notes:
For the first time, the International team of scientists including 18 from India cracked the genetic code
of wheat, the world’s most widely cultivated crop. The information generated will help to identify genes
controlling complex agronomic traits such as yield, grain quality, resistance to diseases and pests, as
well as tolerance to drought, heat, water logging and salinity. The research, which is published in
Journal ‘Science’, stated that the DNA sequence of bread wheat has been ordered and it represents the
highest quality genome sequence generated to date. The reference genome covers 94% (14.5 Gb) of the
entire wheat genome. The bread wheat has a complex hexaploid genome which is 40 times larger than
that of the rice genome and 5 times larger than the human genome. The availability of high quality
reference genome would accelerate the breeding of climate-resilient wheat varieties to feed the ever-
increasing world population and help address global food security in the decades to come.
22. At the 2018 World Hindi Conference (WHC), the Panini Language Laboratory has been gifted
by Government of India (GoI) to which country?
[A] Maldives
[B] South Africa
[C] Australia
[D] Mauritius
Correct Answer: D [Mauritius]
Notes:
The “Panini Language Laboratory” has been inaugurated by Sushma Swaraj, the Union Minister of
External Affairs (MEA), during the 11th World Hindi Conference (WHC) 2018 at Mahatma Gandhi
Institute (MGI) at Port Louis in Mauritius on August 19. The Lab has been gifted by the Government of
India (GoI) and it will help MGI in teaching of all Indian languages in Mauritius. The eminent scholars
have stressed upon on refinement of the Hindi language by making it simple and interesting. The
delegates from across the globe underlined the need of developing software for Hindi which can be
available to common people on a reasonable price. The basic objective of 3-day conference is to connect
Hindi language with culture to spread and popularise it in the entire world.
23. Which Indian sportsperson has clinched India’s first Gold in the 18th Jakarta Asian Games
2018?
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[A] Mary Kom

[B] Bajrang Punia
[C] Apurvi Chandela
[D] Neeraj Chopra
Correct Answer: B [Bajrang Punia]
Notes:
On August 19, Wrestler Bajrang Punia clinched India’s first gold medal in the 18th Asian Games after
defeating Takatani Daichi of Japan in the men’s 65 kg freestyle title bout in Jakarta, Indonesia. Punia,
who hails from Haryana, had won three consecutive gold medals — 2018 CWG (Gold Coast), Tbilisi
Grand Prix (Georgia) and Yasar Dogu International (Istanbul) — ahead of the 2018 Asian Games. Earlier,
Indian shooters Apurvi Chandela and Ravi Kumar won the bronze medal in the 10m Air Rifle Mixed
Team event at the 2018 Asian Games. It was India’s first medal in the ongoing event.
24. Kofi Annan was from which African country?
[A] Ghana
[B] Morocco
[C] Nigeria
[D] South Africa ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: A [Ghana]

Notes:
Kofi Annan (80), the former UN secretary-general and a Ghanaian diplomat, has passed away in
Switzerland on August 18, 2018. He served two terms as UN chief from 1997 to 2006. Mr Annan was the
first black African to become UN secretary-general. He later served as the UN special envoy for Syria,
leading efforts to find a peaceful solution to the conflict. He was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2001
for helping to revitalize the international body, during a period that coincided with the Iraq War and the
HIV/Aids pandemic. In September 2016, Annan was appointed to lead a UN commission to investigate
the Rohingya crisis.
25. What is the scientific name of the deadly agricultural pest “Fall Armyworm”, which has been
spotted in Telangana?
[A] Chortoicetes terminifera
[B] Heteronychus arator
[C] Spodoptera frugiperda
[D] Mythimna convecta
Correct Answer: C [Spodoptera frugiperda]
Notes:
The deadly agricultural insect-pest “Fall Armyworm (FAW)” has been recently spotted at a few places in
the districts of Karimnagar, Kamareddy, Sangareddy, Medak and Gadwal in Telangana. It is known to
attack and destroy several varieties of crops, but it prefers maize and sorghum because of the sweetness
in their leaves. The Fall Armyworm (or Spodoptera frugiperda) is a species in the order of Lepidoptera
and is the larval life stage of a fall armyworm moth. In its larva stage, it can cause significant damage to
crops, if not well managed. The lifespan of the pest is 30 to 60 days and each generation can migrate to a
distance of more than 400 km. It is considered deadly as it has caused massive agricultural losses in
several countries in Africa. The worm was first found in Karnataka in the country and later spread to
Tamil Nadu.
26. FSSAI has constituted which expert committee to look into draft of Food Safety and Standards
(Labelling and Display) Regulations 2018?
[A] P K Agarwal committee
[B] B Sesikeran committee
[C] Hemalatha committee
[D] Nikhil Tandon committee
Correct Answer: B [B Sesikeran committee]
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Notes:
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has decided to form a 3-member committee to
look into the draft of Food Safety and Standards (Labelling and Display) Regulations 2018. The expert
committee will be led by B Sesikeran, former director of National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), and
comprise current NIN director Hemalatha and AIIMS’ Nikhil Tandon. In April, food safety regulator
FSSAI had come out with the above draft that propose mandatory red colour-coded labels on packaged
food products which are high in fat, sugar and salt contents. However, the Union Health Ministry has
put on hold the draft after industry stakeholders expressed concerns referring to an adverse impact on
the evolving packaged food industry. Hence, FSSAI has decided to set up committee to study in detail the
concerns of the industry and make recommendations.
27. On which date, the 2018 World Photography Day (WPD) was observed recently?
[A] August 17
[B] August 19
[C] August 18
[D] August 20
Notes:
The World Photography Day (WPD) is ramkishan
observed every year on August 19 to encourage photographers
across the planet to share a single photo with the world with an aim – to share their world with the
world. The idea behind the day is inspiring positive change in the world, by sharing the stories of the
photographers from all around the world through their photographs. The date of August 19 was chosen
to commemorate the invention of the Daguerreotype, a photographic process developed by Frenchmen
Louis Daguerre and Joseph Nicephore Niepce in 1837. On 9th January 1839, the French Academy of
Sciences announced the Daguerreotype process. On August 19 that same year, the French government
purchased the patent and announced the invention as a free gift to the world. This event was an
important step in the development of modern-day photography.
28. Which of the following is the 2018 World Humanitarian Day (WHD) theme?
[A] #ShareHumanity
[B] #ImpossibleChoices
[C] #OneHumanity
[D] #NotATarget
Correct Answer: D [#NotATarget]
Notes:
The World Humanitarian Day (WHD) is held every year on August 19 to pay tribute to aid workers who
risk their lives in humanitarian service, and to rally support for people affected by crises around the
world. The day recognizes humanitarian personnel and those who have lost their lives working for
humanitarian causes. The campaign theme of 2018 WHD is #NotATarget. The day was designated by the
UN General Assembly (UNGA) to commemorate the 19th August 2003 bombing of the United Nations
headquarters in Baghdad, Iraq.
29. The Union Government has proposed to set up which committee to suggest changes to the
JEE (Advanced) examination?
[A] Kannan Moudgalya committee
[B] Abhay Karandikar committee
[C] Vineet Joshi committee
[D] Bhaskar Ramamurthy committee
Correct Answer: D [Bhaskar Ramamurthy committee]
Notes:
The Union Ministry of Human Resource and Development (HRD) has proposed to set up a 5-member
committee to suggest changes to the JEE (Advanced) examination in the wake of an inadequate number
of candidates qualifying the entrance test this year. The aim of the committee, which will be headed by
IIT-Madras director “Bhaskar Ramamurthy”, is to develop a robust and scientifically designed entrance
exam system to test the potential of the candidates as well as to reduce their dependence on coaching
institutes. The proposal is on the agenda of the IIT Council, which is considered to be the top decision-
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making body of all the IITs. Additionally, the IIT-Council is expected to discuss a suggestion made by one
of the 23 premier engineering schools that the students who qualify JEE (Advanced) should be allocated
an institute and not the engineering branch. According to the suggestion, the student should be
allocated an engineering branch only in the second year, based on the aptitude exhibited in the first year.
The IIT Council is scheduled to meet on August 21, 2018.
30. The Amnesty International India has launched which campaign to create awareness among
children to identify sexual abuse?
[A] Save Child, Save Future
[B] Our Safety, Our Rights
[C] Goals Set
[D] Safety is in Your Hands
Correct Answer: B [Our Safety, Our Rights]
Notes:
On 16 August, the Amnesty International India (AII) has launched a new campaign “Our Safety, Our
Rights” to create awareness among children to help them understand and identify sexual abuse. The
campaign seeks to empower children to speak up and report sexual abuse without fear. The AII has
collaborated with Bharat Gyan Vigyan Samiti (BGVS), People’s Action for Rural Awakening (PARA),
Institute of Social Education (ISE) to engage with children in 400 schools, across four Indian states –
Madhya Pradesh, Telangana, Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. Through this campaign, an estimated 50,000
students, parents, teachers and other key stakeholders will be sensitized on the issue of child sexual
abuse.The campaign will culminate on 2018 International Day of the Girl Child.
31. Which country’s national team has clinched the South Asian Football Federation (SAFF)
Under-15 Women’s Championship 2018?
[A] Bangladesh
[B] India
[C] Bhutan
[D] Nepal
Correct Answer: B [India]
Notes:
Indian Women National Football team has clinched the 2nd edition of South Asian Football Federation
(SAFF) Under-15 Women’s Championship 2018 after defeating Bangladesh in the final in Thimpu, Bhutan
on August 18. A solitary second-half strike by Sunita Munda helped the Indian U-15 team clinch the title.
The SAFF is an association of the football playing nations in South Asia and is part of the larger Asian
Football Confederation (AFC).
32. Who has become first Indian woman wrestler to bag gold at the 18th Asian Games 2018?
[A] Pooja Dhanda
[B] Sakshi Malik
[C] Vinesh Phogat
[D] Priyanka Phogat
Correct Answer: C [Vinesh Phogat]
Notes:
Vinesh Phogat has created history by becoming the first Indian woman wrestler to win a gold medal at
the Asian Games. in the final match in freestyle 50 kg category, she defeated Japan’s Yuki Irie in Jakarta,
Indonesia on August 20, 2018. The gold also enabled Vinesh to achieve another feat as she became the
only woman wrestler to win two medals in back-to-back Asian Games. Earlier, Vinesh had won a bronze
medal in the 48kg category at the 2014 Incheon Asian Games. Vinesh also won back-to-back gold medals
in Glasgow and Gold Coast Commonwealth Games this year. Beside her, Wrestler Bajrang Punia
clinched India’s first gold medal at the Jakarta Asian Games 2018 after defeating Takatani Daichi of
Japan in the men’s 65 kg freestyle title bout.
33. Which former Indian Army chief has been awarded the United States (US) ‘Legion of Merit’?
[A] Bipin Rawat
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[B] Vijay Kumar Singh

[C] Dalbir Singh Suhag
[D] Bikram Singh
Correct Answer: C [Dalbir Singh Suhag]
Notes:
Former Indian Army chief General Dalbir Singh Suhag has been awarded the United States (US) ‘Legion
of Merit (Degree of commander)’ on August 17, 2018, at Pentagon, Washington DC. The award was given
to Singh for exceptionally meritorious service as Chief of Army Staff (CoAS) from August 2014 to
December 2016. With this, he became the 2nd Indian military officer to get this award after General
Rajendrasinghji Jadeja in 1946. The Legion of Merit is awarded in four degrees – Degree of Chief
Commander, Degree of commander, Degree of the officer, Degree of Legionnarie.
34. Which Indian Shooter bagged a Silver in the men’s 10-metre Air Rifle event at the Jakarta
Asian Games 2018 ?
[A] Deepak Kumar
[B] Lakshay
[C] Neeraj Chopra
[D] Saurabh Chaudhary ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: A [Deepak Kumar]

Notes:
On August 20, Indian Shooter Deepak Kumar claimed Silver in the Men’s 10-metre Air Rifle event with a
score of 247.7 points at the Jakarta Asian Games 2018 in Indonesia. In the Men’s Trap, Lakshay clinched
the silver medal with an impressive 43 from 50 shots. Earlier, Wrestler Bajrang Punia had given India its
first Gold of the Games in the 65 kg division.
35. Uri Avnery, who passed away recently, was the renowned journalist from which country?
[A] Spain
[B] Israel
[C] South Africa
[D] Palestine
Correct Answer: B [Israel]
Notes:
Uri Avnery (94), a trailblazing Israeli journalist & peace activist and one of the first to openly advocate
for a Palestinian state, has passed away in Tel Aviv, Israel on August 20, 2018. He was famous for
crossing the lines during the Siege of Beirut to meet Palestinian leader Yassir Arafat on 3 July 1982. It
was first time that the Palestinian leader ever met with an Israeli. Avnery was the author of several
books about the Israeli–Palestinian conflict, including 1948: A Soldier’s Tale, the Bloody Road to
Jerusalem (2008); Israel’s Vicious Circle (2008); and My Friend, the Enemy (1986).
36. Which Indian personality has been conferred the WHO World No Tobacco Day 2017 Award?
[A] Nilesh Mishra
[B] Anish Rajan
[C] SK Arora
[D] Kailash Kumar
Correct Answer: C [SK Arora]
Notes:
SK Arora, the Delhi government’s additional director of health, has been honoured with the prestigious
World Health Organization (WHO) World No Tobacco Day 2017 Award for his extraordinary
contribution towards tobacco control. He was presented the award by Henk Bekedam, WHO India
country head in New Delhi, on August 16, 2018. It is awarded every year by WHO to individuals or
organizations alike in each of six WHO regions for their accomplishments in the area of tobacco control.
The National Health Policy 2017 of the Government of India (GoI) has set targets of relative reduction in
tobacco prevalence by 15% by 2020 and 30% by 2025. Delhi has already achieved these targets before
2017. The Delhi government’s health department has been fighting against direct advertisement of
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brand promotion of tobacco and surrogate advertisement of tobaccos in the name of pan masala and
other eatables such as tea, ilaichi (cardamom) for the past 4 years. According to Global Adult Tobacco
Survey-2 (GATS 2, 2016-17), the prevalence of tobacco use has reduced by 27% in Delhi as compared to
17% for the rest of India average.
37. Recently tested Anti-Tank Guided Missile ‘Helina’ is helicopter-launched version of which
missile?
[A] Akash
[B] Nag
[C] Prithvi
[D] Agni
Correct Answer: B [Nag]
Notes:
On August 19, India has successfully test-fired the indigenously developed helicopter launched Anti-
Tank Guided Missile (ATGM) ‘HELINA’ from an Army helicopter ‘Rudra’ in Pokhran test range in
Rajasthan. The HELINA weapon system tested for its full range was released smoothly from the launch
platform. The missile hit the target with high precision. The missile is guided by an Infrared Imaging
Seeker (IIR) operating in the Lock-on-Before-Launch mode. It is one of the most advanced anti-tank
weapons in the world. It is the helicopter-launched version of NAG and has a hit range of 7-8 km. The
production and induction of the missile are likely to happen in 2019. Beside this, the indigenously
designed and developed guided bombs Smart Anti Airfield Weapon (SAAW) also successfully flight
tested from IAF aircraft at Chandan range in Jaisalmer. The SAAW is the combined effort of the DRDO,
IAF and HAL. This weapon is capable of destroying a variety of ground targets using precision
navigation.
38. Which of the following has become the first Public Sector Unit (PSU) to make a transaction on
the “TReDS platform”?
[A] Steel Authority of India
[B] Coal India Limited
[C] Gas Authority of India Limited
[D] Hindustan Aeronautics Limited
Correct Answer: D [Hindustan Aeronautics Limited]
Notes:
The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has become the first Public Sector Unit (PSU) to make a
transaction on the “TReDS platform”. The transaction was financed by Bank of Baroda (BoB) and since
stands settled. The TReDS platform is an online electronic institutional mechanism for facilitating the
financing of trade receivables of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) through multiple
financiers. The acronym ‘TReDS’ stands for Trade Receivables Discounting System. In October 2017, the
central government mandated all major PSUs to join TReDS platform to facilitate payments to MSME
vendors. RXIL (Receivables Exchange of India), which is India’s first TReDS platform, is promoted by the
National Stock Exchange, Small Industries Development Bank of India, State Bank of India, ICICI Bank
and Yes Bank.
39. On which date, the 2018 World Mosquito Day (WMD) was observed recently?
[A] August 20
[B] August 21
[C] August 18
[D] August 19
Correct Answer: A [August 20]
Notes:
The World Mosquito Day (WMD) is observed every year on August 20 to raise awareness regarding what
all causes malaria and ways to prevent it. The day also observed to mark British doctor Sir Ronald Ross’
1897 landmark discovery that female mosquitoes “Anopheles” transmit malaria to humans. This
discovery laid foundations for scientists across the world to better understand the deadly role of
mosquitoes in disease transmission and come up with effective innovative interventions. Some of the
best ways to prevent malaria include insecticide treated mosquito nets, indoor spraying with
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insecticides and anti-malarial drugs. Quinine is a medication used to treat malaria.

40. Which Indian shooter has clinched India’s 1st shooting gold at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games?
[A] Abhishek Verma
[B] Saurabh Chaudhary
[C] Lakshay Sheron
[D] Deepak Kumar
Correct Answer: B [Saurabh Chaudhary]
Notes:
Shooter Saurabh Chaudhary (16) has clinched gold in the Men’s 10m Air Pistol event at the 2018 Jakarta
Asian Games in Indonesia on August 21. It is India’s first shooting gold in the ongoing event. While
another Indian shooter, Abhishek Verma won bronze in the same event. India have won five medals in
shooting at the Games so far.
41. Which Indian Shooter bagged a Silver in the men’s 50-metres Rifle 3 Positions event at the
2018 Jakarta Asian Games?
[A] Sanjeev Rajput
[B] Deepak Kumar
[C] Ravi Kumar
[D] Lakshay Sheron
Correct Answer: A [Sanjeev Rajput ]
Notes:
On August 21, Indian Shooter Sanjeev Rajput clinched a Silver in the men’s 50-metres Rifle 3 Positions
event at the 18th Asian Games in Palembang on August 21, 2018. Rajput, who is already an Arjuna
Awardee, has been making India proud since the 2006 Asian Games. His consistency and commitment
are admirable.
42. Who has been appointed the new Governor of Jammu & Kashmir (J&K)?
[A] Satya Pal Malik
[B] Tathagata Roy
[C] Satyadev Narayan Arya
[D] Baby Rani Maurya
Correct Answer: A [Satya Pal Malik]
Notes:
Satya Pal Malik has been appointed the new Governor of Jammu & Kashmir. He will replace N N Vohra.
Prior to this post, Malik was the Governor of Bihar. On 21 August, other governors of states appointed
were Lal Ji Tandon for Bihar, Ganga Prasad for Sikkim, Tathagata Roy for Meghalaya and Kaptan Singh
Solanki for Tripura. Satyadev Narayan Arya was appointed as the Governor of Haryana while Baby Rani
Maurya was appointed as the Governor of Uttarakhand.
43. Which Indian woman Wrestler clinched bronze in the 68 Kg Freestyle wrestling event at the
[A] Sakshi Malik
[B] Pooja Dhanda
[C] Divya Kakran
[D] Vinesh Phogat
Correct Answer: C [Divya Kakran]
Notes:
On August 21, Indian Wrestler Divya Kakran clinched bronze in the 68 Kg Freestyle wrestling event at
the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games. In the final, Kakran defeated her Chinese Taipei opponent Chen Wenling
by technical superiority with the final score line reading 10-0. Her medal is a testament to her relentless
hard work & determination. This is India’s third medal in wrestling after Bajrang Punia and Vinesh
Phogat claimed gold in their respective categories.
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44. Which space agency has confirmed presence of ice on Moon using data from the Chandrayaan-
I spacecraft?
[A] JAXA
[B] NASA
[C] Roscosmos
[D] CNSA
Correct Answer: B [NASA]
Notes:
Using data from the Chandrayaan-I spacecraft, that was launched by the Indian Space Research
Organisation (ISRO) in 2008, NASA Scientists have confirmed the presence of frozen water deposits in
the darkest and coldest parts of the Moon’s polar regions. Scientists used data from NASA’s Moon
Mineralogy Mapper (M3) instrument aboard the Chandrayaan-1 spacecraft to identify three specific
signatures that definitively prove there is water ice at the surface of the Moon. According to the study
published in the journal PNAS, the ice deposits are patchily distributed and could possibly be ancient.
The study said with enough ice sitting at the surface within the top few millimetres water would
possibly be accessible as a resource for future expeditions to explore and even stay on the Moon. Most of
the newfound water ice lies in the shadows of craters near the poles, where the warmest temperatures
never reach above minus 156 degrees Celsius. Due to the very small tilt of the Moon’s rotation axis,
sunlight never reaches these regions. ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
45. Who has become the first-ever Indian woman to win an individual gold in shooting at the 2018
Asian Games?
[A] Manu Bhaker
[B] Ankita Raina
[C] Mehuli Ghosh
[D] Rahi Sarnobat
Correct Answer: D [Rahi Sarnobat]
Notes:
On August 22, Indian shooter Rahi Sarnobat has become the first-ever Indian woman to win an
individual shooting medal at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games. She bagged gold in the 25m pistol final
event at the Jakabaring Shooting Range in Palembang, after prevailing in a double shoot-off at the 2018
Jakarta Asian Games. Earlier, in shooting, Saurabh Chaudhary won gold in the Men’s 10m Air Pistol
event. In wrestling, Bajrang Punia and Vinesh Phogat clinched gold in Men’s freestyle 65 kg and
Women’s freestyle 50 kg, respectively. India is currently placed 7th in the tally with 12 medals,
comprising 4 Gold, 3 Silver and 5 Bronze.
46. Which of the following is/are partner country for the 2018 International Buddhist Conclave
(IBC)?
[A] Japan
[B] Germany
[C] Russia
[D] All of the above
Correct Answer: A [Japan]
Notes:
The 2018 International Buddhist Conclave (IBC) will be inaugurated by President Ram Nath Kovind with
theme “Buddha Path – The Living Heritage” in New Delhi on August 23. The aim of the conclave is to
showcase Buddhist Heritage in India and boost tourism. It is being organized by the Ministry of Tourism
in collaboration with the State Governments of Maharashtra, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh at New Delhi and
Ajanta (Maharashtra), followed by site visits to Rajgir, Nalanda and Bodhgaya (Bihar) and Sarnath (Uttar
Pradesh). The Ministerial level delegation from Bangladesh, Indonesia, Myanmar and Sri Lanka will
participate in the conclave along with delegates from the 29 countries participating in the International
Buddhist Conclave including US, UK, Russia, Japan, Germany and France. Japan would be the partner
Country for the 2018 Buddhist conclave.
47. Gurudas Kamat, who passed away recently, was associated with which political party?
bitul.in
[A] CPI
[B] INC
[C] BJP
[D] NCP
Correct Answer: B [INC]
Notes:
Gurudas Kamat (63), the senior Congress leader and former Union minister, has passed away in New
Delhi on August 22, 2018. He was 5-time Member of Parliament (MP) from Mumbai and was also the
president of the NSUI from 1976 to 1980. He served as Union minister of state for home affairs with the
additional charge of communications and information technology from 2009 to 2011. In July 2011, he
resigned as the minister. He was also a former president of the Mumbai Regional Congress Committee.
48. Which state government has decided to re-name its new capital city as “Atal Nagar” in
memory of late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Jharkhand
[C] Chhattisgarh
[D] Uttar Pradesh ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: C [Chhattisgarh ]

Notes:
On August 21, the Chhattisgarh government has decided to re-name state’s new capital city of Naya
Raipur as “Atal Nagar” in memory of late Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. It has also been decided to
develop an “Atal Memorial” in an area of five acres at state’s new capital. Besides, many institutions,
including Bilaspur University and Rajnandgaon Medical College, will be named after former Prime
Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The state government has also decided to name a battalion of state police
force as “Pokharan battalion”. The chief minister said it has also been decided to install a statue of
former Prime Minister in the state capital and district headquarters of all the 27 districts. The state
capital Naya Raipur, a most modern smart city, has been developed at a cost of more than Rs 10,000
crore.
49. The first-ever International Day of Remembrance and tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is
observed on which date?
[A] August 22
[B] August 21
[C] August 20
[D] August 19
Notes:
The first-ever International Day of Remembrance and tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is observed by
United Nations on 21st August 2018 to honour the innocent victims of terror attacks around the world,
who will forever remain in our hearts. As per resolution 72/165 (2017), the international day will serve as
a reminder to stop and listen to the victims and survivors of terrorism, to raise up their voices and
recognize the impact terrorism has on their lives.
50. The book “281 and Beyond” is the autobiography of which Indian cricketer?
[A] Rahul Dravid
[B] Sourav Ganguly
[C] Sunil Gavaskar
[D] VVS Laxman
Correct Answer: D [VVS Laxman]
Notes:
The book “281 and Beyond” is the autobiography of veteran cricketer VVS Laxman, which will be
launched by Westland Sport in November 2018. The title has been borrowed from the Hyderabad
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stylist’s fabulous series-turning innings of 281 against Australia at the Eden Gardens in 2001. His
partnership along with Rahul Dravid in that match is one of the best batting partnerships in cricket
history. He was known for his patience and wrist work and scored many memorable centuries during
his playing days. Laxman played 134 Tests, amassing 8,781 runs at an average of 45.97. He scored 17
centuries and 56 half centuries. He also played in 86 ODIs for an aggregate of 2338 and average of 30.76
in the shorter format.
51. Which Indian woman cricketer has recently announced her retirement from International T20
cricket?
[A] Mansi Joshi
[B] Puja Vastrakar
[C] Shikha Pandey
[D] Jhulan Goswami
Correct Answer: D [Jhulan Goswami]
Notes:
Jhulan Nishit Goswami, the veteran Indian women’s team pacer, has announced her retirement from
International T20 cricket. She represented India in 68 T20Is picking up 56 wickets which included a 5-
wicket haul against Australia in 2012. Goswami will only play One Day International (ODIs) (as India
don’t play Test cricket), in which formatramkishan
she is the world’s highest wicket-taker with 200 scalps from 169
games. She hails from a non-descript town of Chakdah in West Bengal’s Nadia district.
52. Which Indian-American scientist has found simple way to predict Inflammatory Bowel Disease
(IBD)?
[A] Ashok Das
[B] Chander Mohan
[C] Krishan Sabnani
[D] Jogesh Pati
Correct Answer: B [Chander Mohan]
Notes:
Prof. Chander Mohan, an Indian-American scientist, has identified as many as 50 protein biomarkers
that can non-invasively detect Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) – a gut disorder that leads to
diarrhoea, abdominal cramps, and weight loss. Mohan, who is professor at University of Houston in the
US, received a $ 347,490 grant from the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America. Along with IBD expert
Subra Kugathasan, a gastroenterologist at Emory University in the US, Mohan is examining stool
protein biomarkers that indicate the disease. IBD occurs when the body’s immune system fights its
intestinal cells. Two of the most common types are Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, both of which
cause inflammation in the digestive tract.
53. Which of the following is the autobiography of renowned journalist Kuldip Nayar, who passed
away recently?
[A] In Jail
[B] India House
[C] Beyond The Lines
[D] India After Nehru
Correct Answer: C [Beyond The Lines]
Notes:
Kuldip Nayar (95), the Veteran journalist, author and human rights activist, has passed away in New
Delhi on August 23, 2018. Nayar, a former editor of the Indian Express, was also the author of 15 books
including “Without Fear: The Life and Trial of Bhagat Singh”, “India after Nehru” and “Emergency
Retold”. In his autobiography ‘Beyond The Lines’, he wrote about his interview with Pakistan’s nuclear
scientist Abdul Qadeer Khan, during which the latter revealed that Pakistan had a nuclear device well
before it was thought to have had it. During Emergency, he was jailed under the Maintenance of Internal
Security Act for leading a protest against the excesses of the administration. In 2015, he was honoured
with ‘Lifetime Achievement Award’ for his contribution to journalism at the 8th edition of the Ramnath
Goenka Excellence awards. Nayar also served as High Commissioner of India to the UK in 1990 and as a
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member of the Rajya Sabha.

54. Which country is host to the 9th edition of Mountain Echoes Literature Festival 2018?
[A] Japan
[B] South Korea
[C] Bhutan
[D] Myanmar
Correct Answer: C [Bhutan ]
Notes:
On August 22, the 9th edition of Mountain Echoes Literature Festival 2018 has started in Thimphu,
Bhutan to serve as a collaborative platform for knowledge sharing, leading to global cultural potpourri of
ideas. The 4-day Literature Festival began with a tribute to former Indian Prime Minister Atal Bihari
Vajpayee, who was remembered at the annual event for his animated style of poetry recitations. It will
celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations between India and Bhutan. The 2018 edition will focus on
subjects such as Spirituality and Philosophy, Performing Arts, Environmental Conservation, Food, as
well as Film and Theatre, among others. The literary festival of Bhutan was established under the
patronage of Her Majesty the Royal Queen Mother Ashi Dorji Wangmo Wangchuck and is known for
bringing together literary stalwarts from across the world in the lap of the Himalayas.
55. Which Indian shooter clinched silver ingugulotu
ramkishan the| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
men’s double |trap shooting event at the 2018 Asian
Games?
[A] Shardul Vihan
[B] Ankur Mittal
[C] Anwer Sultan
[D] Ravi Kumar
Correct Answer: A [Shardul Vihan]
Notes:
Indian shooter Shardul Vihan (15) from Uttar Pradesh clinched silver in the men’s double trap shooting
event at the Jakabaring shooting range in the 18th Asian Games 2018 on August 23. He shot 73 to claim
the silver medal, while Korea’s Shin Hyunwoo clinched gold with a score of 74. Qatar’s Al Marri Hamad
Ali bagged the bronze after shooting 53 at the Jakabaring shooting range. Vihan, who is coached by
former Asian Championship double gold medallist Anwer Sultan, had grabbed four gold medals at
Shotgun Nationals Championship in 2017.
56. Which of the following cities is the venue of 4th summit of Heads of State/Government of
BIMSTEC 2018 ?
[A] Kathmandu
[B] New Delhi
[C] Colombo
[D] Thimpu
Correct Answer: A [Kathmandu ]
Notes:
The 4th summit of Heads of State/Government of Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical
and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) will be held at Kathmandu in Nepal on August 30 and 31. All
member states of BIMSTEC will participate in the Summit. During the two-day Summit, leaders of
member states will review progressachieved so far in the areas of cooperation and provide guidance to
the futurework of the BIMSTEC. Prior to the Summit, the 19th Senior Officials’ Meeting (SOM) and the
16th Ministerial Meeting of BIMSTEC will be held on August 28 and 29 in Kathmandu. BIMSTEC is a
regional economic bloc comprising 7 member states lyingin the littoral and adjacent areas of the Bay of
Bengal constituting a contiguous regional unity. The group was formed in 1997 and it brings together
Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Myanmar and Thailand. Nepal is the current chair of
BIMSTEC.
57. Which country has launched its first state-of-the-art domestic fighter jet “Kowsar”?
[A] Pakistan
bitul.in
[B] Iran
[C] North Korea
[D] Israel
Correct Answer: B [Iran]
Notes:
Iran has launched its first state-of-the-art domestic fighter jet “Kowsar” at a defense show in Tehran on
August 23, 2018. The jet is a fourth-generation fighter, with advanced avionics and multi-purpose radar.
It is designed and manufactured by domestic military experts. It is dual-cockpit, single engine jet with
single tail fin. It resembles US-made F-5F Tiger (first flew in 1974), which is variant of 1950s-era US
Northrop F-5 fighter that is a long-time mainstay of Iranian Air Force. It can be used for short aerial
support missions and is equipped with systems that promote precision targeting. The acronym
“Kowsar” refers river in paradise in Islam and also the title of a chapter in the Koran.
58. Which well-known personality has become the new brand ambassador of the Sanjay Gandhi
National Park (SGNP)?
[A] Medha Patkar
[B] Raveena Tandon
[C] Vandana Shiva
[D] Sugathakumari
Correct Answer: B [Raveena Tandon]
Notes:
The Maharashtra government has appointed actor Raveena Tandon as the brand ambassador of the
Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP) to spread environmental awareness among citizens. The SGNP is
spread over 103 Sq. Km. and is wedged between the suburbs of Mumbai and Thane. It is home to more
than 274 species of birds, 35 species of mammals, 78 species of reptiles and amphibians, 170 species of
butterflies and over a staggering 1,300 species of plants. The park is notable as one of the major national
parks existing within a metropolis limit and is one of the most visited parks in the world. It was formerly
known as Borivali National Park and was renamed SGNP in 1996, after Sanjay Gandhi, the son of former
Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.
59. India’s largest Startup incubation and acceleration “Bhamashah Techno Hub” has launched in
which state?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Maharashtra
[C] Rajasthan
[D] Gujarat
Correct Answer: C [Rajasthan]
Notes:
In Rajasthan, India’s largest Startup incubation and acceleration- Bhamashah Techno Hub – was
inaugurated by Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje in Jaipur On August 23, 2018. The purpose of the techno
hub is to create an ecosystem for promoting state’s youth for entrepreneurship. The hub would be able
to accommodate over 700 startup ventures with one lakh square feet incubation space and also help
them to get connected with potential investors. In it, free space, easier funding avenues and mentorship
will also be provided to startup.
60. Who has been selected for the prestigious J C Bose Fellowship-2018?
[A] Appa Rao Podile
[B] Anadish Pal
[C] Arun Krishnamurthy
[D] Abid Surti
Correct Answer: A [Appa Rao Podile]
Notes:
Prof Appa Rao Podile, the Vice Chancellor of the University of Hyderabad (UoH), has been selected for
the prestigious J C Bose Fellowship-2018 of Department of Science and Technology (DoST) by
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Government of India (GoI). The fellowship is given in recognition of his performance in the area of plant-
microbe interactions in general and induced resistance in plants in particular. He has made significant
contributions in three closely related areas of research that revolve around the recognition of pathogen-
derived molecules by plants that activate defence response and contribute to improved health/yield. The
J C Bose Fellow will receive a fellowship amount of Rs 25,000 per month and a research grant of Rs 15
lakh per annum and is provided initially for a period of 5 years. The fellowship can be extended beyond
five years based on performance during the first five year tenure.
61. Which IIT has launched an exclusive incubator “Fabless Chip Design Incubator (FabCI)” to
boost chip design?
[A] IIT Hyderabad
[B] IIT Bombay
[C] IIT Delhi
[D] IIT Madras
Correct Answer: A [IIT Hyderabad]
Notes:
The Indian Institute of Technology-Hyderabad (IIT-H) has launched an exclusive incubator “Fabless Chip
Design Incubator (FabCI)” to boost chip design. It is a first of its kind in India that will focus on creating
an ecosystem for start-ups in chip design. The purpose of FabCI is to incubate at least 50 ‘Make-in-India’
chip design companies that can compete globally and generate Intellectual Property Rights (IPRs). It will
provide a bouquet of offerings including free software tools with leading technology partners in
Electronic Design Automation (EDA), a characterization facility for testing chips, and equipment for
performing DC and RF characterization. FabCI is funded by MeitY, with technology partners Cadence
Design Systems and Mentor Graphics both are leading providers of Electronic Design Automation (EDA)
software, hardware and IP. The Incubator also offers virtual support to non-Hyderabad start-ups which
can join FabCI and leverage the offerings and participate remotely.
62. Which Indian female tennis player has won bronze in women’s singles at the 18th Asian Games
2018?
[A] N. Sikki Reddy
[B] Ashwini Ponnappa
[C] Ankita Raina
[D] Karman Kaur Thandi
Correct Answer: C [Ankita Raina]
Notes:
Indian Tennis player, Ankita Raina has won a bronze after losing a hard fought women’s singles
semifinal 4-6, 6-7 in straight sets against Shuai Zhang of China at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games on
August 23. With this, she became the 2nd Indian female tennis player after Sania Mirza to win a medal in
singles’ competition at the Asian Games. For India, Mirza won silver in Doha in 2006 and a bronze in
Guangzhou 2010. Ankita from Maharashtra is currently India’s number one women’s singles.
63. Which of the following cities is the venue of the 2018 India Banking Conclave (IBC)?
[A] Chennai
[B] New Delhi
[C] Indore
[D] Pune
Correct Answer: B [New Delhi]
Notes:
On August 23, the 2018 India Banking Conclave (IBC) was held in New Delhi to address issues of India’s
Banking Sector. It was organized by Centre for Economic Policy Research (CEPR) and the government
Think Tank NITI Aayog. IBC 2018 is an important platform for varied stakeholders connected to India’s
banking and financial sectors. The 2-day thought awareness programme witnessed panel discussions on
NPAs, development of banks with changing times, privatization versus merger and the future of
banking, among other issues.
64. Who heads the steering committee which recently submitted ‘Making India 5G Ready’ report
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to government?
[A] Aruna Sundararajan
[B] Vinod Tawde
[C] Waqar Ali
[D] AJ Paulraj
Correct Answer: D [AJ Paulraj]
Notes:
The 9-member Steering Committee, headed by Stanford University Prof. AJ Paulraj, has recently
submitted its 5G high level forum report titled ‘Making India 5G Ready’ to Telecom Secretary Aruna
Sundararajan. The report suggested the Central government should announce its 5G policy by 31st
December 2018, besides setting up a standing committee to advise on building the infrastructure for
spectrum technology. The key recommendations and action plan for the report include spectrum policy;
regulatory policy; education and awareness promotion; application and use case labs; participation in
international standards; development of application layer standards; and major 5G trials. The committee
expected the 5G commercial roll out in India by 2020.
65. The Government of India (GoI) has decided to lift ban on retail sale of which life saving drug
from September 2018?
[A] Nialamide ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[B] Metformin
[C] Oxytocin
[D] Cyclosporine
Correct Answer: C [Oxytocin]
Notes:
The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has lifted ban on retail sale of life saving drug ‘Oxytocin’ with
effect from 1st September 2018, which was restricted to retail sale from July 2018. Though, the Centre
has imposed strict regulations on its sales and retained the monopoly of Karnataka Antibiotics &
Pharmaceuticals Ltd (KAPL) for manufacturing oxytocin. As per new rules, Oxytocin will be moved from
schedule A to Schedule H1 that means retailer has to maintain a separate register giving the name and
address of the prescriber, the patient, the drug and the quantity supplied. These records have to be
maintained for 3 years and be available for inspection. Oxytocin is an essential drug used to prevent and
treat bleeding after child birth. But, its misuse is widespread in the dairy industry, where livestock are
injected with oxytocin to make them release milk at a time convenient to farmers. The hormone is also
used to increase the size of vegetables and fruits such as pumpkins, watermelons, brinjals, gourds and
cucumbers.
66. The Copernicus project, under which wind-sensing satellite “Aeolus” has been launched
recently, is a joint project of __:
[A] European Union and European Space Agency
[B] ISRO and JAXA
[C] NASA and ISRO
[D] Roscosmos and ISRO
Correct Answer: A [European Union and European Space Agency ]
Notes:
The European Space Agency (ESA) has launched a wind- sensing satellite “Aeolus” into orbit from French
Guyana to track global winds. The satellite will be placed at an altitude of 320 Km above the Earth. The
launch is part of the Copernicus project, a joint effort by the European Union and the European Space
Agency (ESA) to track environmental damage and assist disaster relief operations. The “Aeolus” satellite
– named after the keeper of the winds in Greek mythology – is designed to enable improved weather
forecasting and aid disaster relief operations. It is equipped with a Doppler wind LIDAR – an advanced
laser system designed to measure global wind patterns from space. Aeolus, which is built by Airbus, will
be the first satellite equipped to perform global wind-component-profile observation on a daily basis in
near real-time.
67. Vijay Chavan, who passed away recently, was associated to which of the following regional
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cinemas?
[A] Tamil
[B] Marathi
[C] Odia
[D] Telugu
Correct Answer: B [Marathi ]
Notes:
Vijay Chavan (63), the veteran Marathi actor who was known for his comic roles, has passed away in
Mumbai, Maharashtra on August 24, 2018. The actor, who featured in more than 350 films, is best
remembered for his comic roles in Marathi films such as ‘Jatra’, ‘Zapatlela’, ‘Pachadlele’, ‘Mumbaicha
Dabewala’ and ‘Shrimanta Damodar Panta’, among others. Beside films, he also featured in numerous
plays. He is best known for the his role of Mavshi in the famous Marathi Stage drama “Moruchi Mavshi”.
This comedy play was penned by Pralhad Keshav Atre.
68. The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has appointed which committee to decide Vedanta’s plea
challenging closure of its Sterlite plant?
[A] A K Goel committee
[B] Aruna Sundararajan committee ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[C] M S Sivan committee
[D] S J Vazifdar committee
Correct Answer: D [S J Vazifdar committee]
Notes:
The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has appointed former Punjab and Haryana High Court Chief Justice
S J Vazifdar as head of a 3-member committee to decide mining company Vedanta Limited’s plea
challenging the Tamil Nadu government’s order to close the Sterlite copper plant at Thoothukudi. The
committee may, if necessary, visit the site and consider the technical data and take a decision as early as
found viable preferably within 6 weeks after it assumes it’s working. Recently, on 9th August 2018, the
Tribunal had allowed Vedanta to access the administrative unit inside its Sterlite copper plant at
Thoothukudi in Tamil Nadu. Though, the plant would remain closed and the company would not have
access to its production unit and directed the district magistrate to ensure this. In March 2013, Sterlite’s
factory came into limelight when a gas leak led to the death of one person and injuries to several others,
after which then chief minister J Jayalalithaa had ordered its closure.
69. The book “No Spin” is the autobiography of which veteran cricketer?
[A] Anil Kumble
[B] Muttiah Muralitharan
[C] Shane Warne
[D] Bishan Singh Bedi
Correct Answer: C [Shane Warne]
Notes:
The book “No Spin” is the autobiography of renowned Australian bowler Shane Warne, which will release
on October 30. It is the true story behind the headlines, in Warne’s own voice, and challenges some of the
enduring myths and untruths that surround him. The memoir is written with cricketer and TV
presenter Mark Nicholas. Warne is widely regarded as one of the finest bowlers in the history of the
game. He played his first Test match in 1992, and took over 1,000 international wickets.
70. The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) has launched an initiative to
save cultural heritage in flood-devastated Kerala. Where is the headquarters of ICOMOS?
[A] Geneva
[B] Paris
[C] London
[D] New York
Correct Answer: B [Paris]
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Notes:
The International Council on Monuments and Sites (ICOMOS) has launched a Kerala Heritage Rescue
Initiative to assess damage to rich cultural and built heritage in flood-devastated Kerala. The initiative
aims to set up a platform for emergency response to the cultural heritage damaged by the floods in
Kerala. It has also set up a Facebook page to collect information on the damage to buildings, museum
collections, cultural artefacts, libraries, archives, and even intangible heritage. ICOMOS, which is
headquartered in Paris, is an inter-governmental organisation dedicated to the preservation of cultural
heritage worldwide through training, information, research, cooperation and advocacy programmes.
ICOMOS is also an advisory body to the UNESCO for cultural heritage, in particular for implementation
of the World Heritage Convention (WHC).
71. Which of the following cities is the venue of the International Water Colour Festival 2018?
[A] Bhopal
[B] Ranchi
[C] Patna
[D] Hyderabad
Correct Answer: B [Ranchi]
Notes:
On August 23, the International Waterramkishan
Colour Festival 2018 has started at Audrey House in Ranchi,
which is organized by the Jharkhand Art Culture and Tourism Department in Audrey House. The aim of
the 5-day fest is to bring local artists in touch with the international art and promote the rich art and
culture of Jharkhand. During the water colour festival, the visiting artists will interact with school
students and local artists on various themes including “nature” and “modern/abstract”. Approx 56
internationally renowned artists — from 24 countries and 25 Indian states are participating in the
festival. The list of artists from different countries include names like Anna Massinissa (Fabriano), Zhou
Tianya and Mong Sho (China), the Indian art diaspora in the festival will be represented by Milind
Mulick, Sailesh Meshram, Nirupam Konwar, Ramesh Jhawar and Praween Karmaker, among others.
72. Who has been appointed new chairman of the Defence Research and Development
Organisation (DRDO)?
[A] G Satheesh Reddy
[B] Sanjay Mitra
[C] S Christopher
[D] Mrinal S Das
Correct Answer: A [G Satheesh Reddy]
Notes:
Renowned aerospace scientist Dr G Satheesh Reddy, who is scientific adviser to the Defence minister,
has been appointed new chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) for a
period of two years. He will also be secretary in the Department of Defence Research and Development
(DDR&D) for the same period. The post of DRDO chief was lying vacant since May 2018 after the then
Chief Dr. S. Christopher stepped down. Dr. Reddy is the first defence scientist working in India to receive
the Silver Medal of Royal Aeronautical Society, UK, and has also been selected for the first IEI (India) and
IEEE (USA) joint award for Engineering Excellence.
73. The 2018 Nallur Kantha Swamy festival has started in which neighbouring country of India?
[A] Bangladesh
[B] Bhutan
[C] Sri Lanka
[D] Nepal
Correct Answer: C [Sri Lanka]
Notes:
On August 23, the annual festival at Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil has started in Jaffna, Sri Lanka with the
sacred flag hoisting ceremony and is attracting thousands of Hindu pilgrims from within the country
and abroad. During the 25-day festival, thousands of Tamil Hindu devotees will attend the rituals in
worship of Lord Murugan, Valli and Devanai Amman. The colourful festival includes vibrant chariot
processions, rhythmic drumming, dancing and acts of self-mortification. The Ther Thiruvila (chariot
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festival) is the most popular of all events is very colourful.

74. Which state government is host to the 2018 Krishi Kumbh International Conference and
Exhibition?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Rajasthan
[C] Gujarat
[D] Uttar Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Uttar Pradesh]
Notes:
The 2018 Krishi Kumbh International Conference and Exhibition will be held at Indian Institute of
Sugarcane Research (Telibagh) in Lucknow from October 26, which will be organized by the Government
of Uttar Pradesh. The aim of the 3-day conference is to provide a platform to farmers, technical experts
and entrepreneurs for exchange of knowledge and expertise in the field of agriculture sector. It also aims
at increasing the agriculture production by adopting advance technologies. In it, farmers from all 75
districts National & International agriculture scientist, representatives from industries & policy maker
from Central and State govt. will participate.
75. Which state government has decided to organize youths’ conclave ‘ATAL’ in September 2018?
[A] Chhattisgarh
[B] Assam
[C] Jharkhand
[D] Arunachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: D [Arunachal Pradesh]
Notes:
The Arunachal Pradesh government has decided to organize a youths’ conclave “ATAL – Arunachal
Transformation & Aspirational Leadership” in Itanagar on 22nd September 2018. The aim of the 3-day
ATAL conclave is to engage youths in the age group of 18 to 30 years of the state pro-actively in the
areas of public policy and governance. For this, they have to register themselves at www.atalconclave.in.
Participants shall brainstorm and present their ideas, proposals and solutions for government policies
and existing challenges faced by the state before expert panels. Further, interactive sessions with key
policy makers, bureaucrats, sectoral experts, thought leaders, grass-root change-makers are also
planned to be hosted in the Conclave. The conclave will see participation of 1000 youths of the state.
76. Tejinder Pal Singh Toor, who clinched Gold in men’s Shot-Put event at the 2018 Jakarta Asian
Games, has set new Asiad record of how much meters?
[A] 20.55m
[B] 20.75m
[C] 20.85m
[D] 20.65m
Correct Answer: B [20.75m ]
Notes:
Indian shot putter Tejinder Pal Singh Toor from Punjab has clinched Gold in men’s Shot-Put event with a
record-shattering throw at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games on August 25. He threw the iron ball to 20.75m
to win the gold and set a national as well as Asian Games record. The previous mark of 20.57m was set
by Sultan Abdulmajeed Al-Hebshi of Saudi Arabia at the 2010 Guangzhou Asian Games in China. With
this, Tajinder became the first Indian to win the men’s shot put gold at the Asian Games since Bahadur
Singh Sagoo, who had thrown a best of 19.03m to win the gold in Busan in 2002. This is the 8th gold
medal for India in men’s shot put in the history of the Asian Games.
77. The world’s first public blockchain bond “bond-i” has recently launched by which International
organisation?
[A] AIIB
[B] ADB
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[C] World Bank

[D] IMF
Correct Answer: C [World Bank]
Notes:
The world’s first blockchain bond “bond-i” has recently launched by World Bank (WB), which is to be
created, allocated, transferred and managed through its life cycle using distributed ledger technology.
The “bond-I” stands for Blockchain Operated New Debt Instrument and is also has reference to Sydney’s
most famous beach ‘Bondi Beach’. The Commonwealth Bank of Australia is the sole arranger of the
issuance for the bond. It was the first time that the World Bank bond raised capital from public investors
through a legally valid bond issuance that uses blockchain from start to finish. This 2-year maturity
bond has successfully raised 110 million Australian dollars (USD 80.48 million). The World Bank, whose
bonds hold an AAA rating, regularly uses its borrowing power to help develop new bond markets as well
as pioneering new means for selling and trading the securities. The bond-i blockchain platform was built
and developed by the CBA Blockchain Centre of Excellence, housed in the Sydney Innovation Lab.
78. The NETA app that seeks to let Indian voters rate their elected representatives, is inspired by
which country’s approval system?
[A] United States
[B] Russia ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[C] France
[D] Germany
Correct Answer: A [United States]
Notes:
On August 24, the National Electoral Transformation (NETA) mobile application has been launched by
former President Pranab Mukherjee wherein voters can review and rate their elected representatives
(MPs& MLAs) as well as hold them accountable. Apart from this, the application is being seen as an
instrument to track voter sentiment across various constituencies in India. The purpose of app is to
foster political accountability by being an indicator of the ways in which a leader’s performance is being
perceived. To ensure participation, the app requires a combination of mediums like the app itself, IVR
calls, SMS and even offline activation leveraging ASHA and anganwadi workers to collate data on
evolving political inclinations. The app is the brainchild of an entrepreneur Pratham Mittal and is
inspired by the US approval system.
79. Which country is host to the multi-nation counter-terror exercise “SCO Peace Mission 2018”?
[A] Uzbekistan
[B] Russia
[C] China
[D] Kazakhstan
Correct Answer: B [Russia]
Notes:
The multi-nation counter-terror exercise Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Peace Mission 2018
has started at Chebarkul, Russia on August 24 to provide an opportunity to the armed forces of SCO
nations to train in counter terrorism operations in urban scenario in a multinational and joint
environment. The scope of the exercise includes professional interaction, mutual understanding of drills
& procedures, establishment of joint command and control structures and elimination of terrorist threat
in urban counter terrorist scenario. It will be for the first time since Independence that India and
Pakistan will both be part of a military exercise, though the armies of the two nations have worked
together in UN peace keeping missions. All 8 SCO member nations – Russia, China, Kyrgyz Republic,
Kazakhstan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, India and Pakistan – are participating in this exercise.
80. What is the India’s GDP forecast for 2018, as per Moody’s Investors Service report “Global
Macro Outlook for 2018-19”?
[A] 7.8%
[B] 7.5%
[C] 7.6%
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[D] 7.7%
Correct Answer: B [7.5%]
Notes:
Moody’s Investors Service has recently released its Global Macro Outlook for 2018-19. In it, the Indian
economy is expected to grow by about 7.5% in 2018 and 2019 as it is largely resilient to external
pressures like those from higher oil prices. However, the rating agency expects the India’s economy to
grow at a higher rate of 7.7% in the first quarter of 2018. Apart from this, Moody’s put G-20 growth at
3.3% in 2018 and 3.1% in 2019. The advanced economies will grow 2.3% in 2018 and 2% in 2019.
81. Fouaad Mirza is related to which sports?
[A] Tennis
[B] Badminton
[C] Sprint
[D] Equestrian
Correct Answer: D [Equestrian ]
Notes:
Fouaad Mirza from Bangaluru clinched silver in the equestrian event with a score of 26.40 at the 2018
Jakarta Asian Games on August 26. With this, he became the first Indian to win an Asian Games
individual medal in the equestrian eventramkishan
after 36 years. The last individual eventing medal came in 1982
when Raghubir Singh topped the table in New Delhi. Beside this, the Indian equestrian team, comprising
Fouaad Mirza, Jitender Singh, Akash Malik and Rakesh Kumar, also won silver in the same competition
with a combined score of 121.30 in the ongoing event. Equestrian is a sport related to Horse riding.
82. Mizzima Media Group, which was recently in news, is a company of which country?
[A] Italy
[B] Japan
[C] Myanmar
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: C [Myanmar]
Notes:
Prasar Bharati has recently signed MoU with Mizzima Media Group of Myanmar to realize cooperation
and collaboration in broadcasting and content sharing. The agreement was signed in the presence of
Prasar Bharati CEO, Shashi Shekhar Vempati and Editor-in-chief and MD, Mizzima in New Delhi. The
agreement will realize cooperation and collaboration in broadcasting and envisions content-sharing
covering a wide range of genres, including culture, entertainment, education, science, news and sports
along with other areas of mutual interest.
83. The recently signed MoU between Integrated Defence Staff and which organization aims to set
up telemedicine nodes for soldiers in high-altitude areas?
[A] VSSC
[B] ISRO
[C] BARC
[D] DRDO
Correct Answer: B [ISRO]
Notes:
The Integrated Defence Staff of the Defence Ministry and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to set up satellite-enabled telemedicine nodes to
improve emergency medical support to Indian soldiers posted in high-altitude areas, especially Siachen.
ISRO will establish 53 more nodes in the first phase over and above the existing 20, in various
establishments of the Army, Navy and Air Force across the country. These nodes will enable medical
consultation between soldiers deployed at the Siachen glacier and medical echelons in the rear. This
joint initiative by ISRO and the Armed Forces Medical Services will transform the reach of telemedicine
to soldiers, airmen and sailors in remote and isolated posts. One can say that the communication
through these nodes will be a paradigm shift in the delivery of lifesaving health care in adverse terrain
and extreme weather conditions till the weather clears up and movement is possible.
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84. India’s first-ever test flight powered by biojet fuel was successfully conducted by which
airline?
[A] Air India
[B] SpiceJet
[C] Vistara
[D] JetLite
Correct Answer: B [SpiceJet]
Notes:
Budget passenger carrier SpiceJet has successfully conducted India’s first-ever test flight powered by
biojet fuel between Dehradun and Delhi on August 27, 2018. The 43 minute flight was operated by the
airline’s Bombardier Q-400 aircraft with total 25 on onboard, including crew. The flight was powered
with a blend of 75% Air Turbine Fuel (ATF) and 25% biojet fuel. The biojet fuel, which is made from
Jatropha crop, has been developed by the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) based in
Dehradun along with Indian Institute of Petroleum (IIP). The advantage of using biojet fuel as compared
to ATF is that it reduces carbon emissions and enhances fuel efficiency. The biojet fuel has been
recognised by American Standard Testing Method (ASTM) and meets the specification standards of
Pratt & Whitney and Bombardier for commercial application in aircraft. Globally, bio-fuel powered
flights are operated in Canada.
85. Gopal Bose, who passed away recently, was associated with which sports?
[A] Cricket
[B] Boxing
[C] Tennis
[D] Chess
Correct Answer: A [Cricket]
Notes:
Gopal Bose (71), the former Bengal cricket captain, has passed away in Birmingham, England on August
26, 2018. He was the first cricketer from Bengal to play an ODI against England in 1974, which was
incidentally only the 2nd ODI that India played. He had scored 3,757 runs in 78 first-class games with 8
hundreds and 17 fifties. He also took 72 wickets, including one five-for, with his handy off-breaks. Bose
was the head coach of Kolkata’s Cricket Club of Dhakuria(CCD). Interestingly, Bose was the manager of
the Virat Kohli-led India U-19 team that won the World Cup in Kuala Lumpur in 2008.
86. Which of the following is the India’s only aircraft carrier to have marine hydraulic system?
[A] INS Sahyadri
[B] INS Vikrant
[C] INS Vikramaditya
[D] INS Satpura
Correct Answer: C [INS Vikramaditya]
Notes:
For the first time, India’s only aircraft carrier INS Vikramaditya will be fitted with marine hydraulic
systems “GS-1MF and GS-3” to boost the air operations of the ship. The systems would be fitted by
Russia’s Rostec State Corporation through its subsidiary “Technodinamika” by May 2019. The
upgradation and sea trials of the ship will be done in India only. The hydraulics technology uses fluid
pressure to power machines. These hydraulic systems are used for refuelling, cleaning and
pressurization of hydraulic systems of aircraft and helicopters which form part of the air-capable wing
of INS Vikramaditya. GS-1MF hydraulic system is used for helicopters while GS-3 is used for aircraft. INS
Vikramaditya is a modified Kiev-class aircraft carrier, which entered into service with the Indian Navy in
2013. It weighs 44,500 tonnes and is the biggest & heaviest ship in the Indian Navy. It is 284m long and
60m high — that’s about as high as a 20-storeyed building. The ship weighs 40,000 tonnes and is the
biggest & heaviest ship in the Indian Navy.
87. Which of the following cities is the venue of the 3rd Indian Ocean Conference (IOC-2018)?
[A] Colombo
[B] New Delhi
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[C] Tokyo
[D] Hanoi
Correct Answer: D [Hanoi]
Notes:
The 3rd edition of Indian Ocean Conference (IOC) 2018 has started in Hanoi, Vietnam on August 27 with
theme ‘Building Regional Architectures’. The 2-day conference was inaugurated by External Affairs
Minister Sushma Swaraj along with her Vietnamese counterpart, Pham Binh Minh. Ms Swaraj also
unveiled the bust of Mahatma Gandhi in the Chancery building at the Embassy of India in Hanoi. The
purpose of the conference is to serve a platform to the countries to come closer and exchange better
views on the economic and strategic importance of the region and neighbourhood. The conference will
see 43 countries as participants while 28 ministers and officials are set to address the event. The
conference will emphasise on better cooperation, strategic collaboration and governance architectures.
88. Who heads the committee on review of penal provisions of Company Act 2013 which recently
submitted final report to government?
[A] Uday Kotak
[B] Injeti Srinivas
[C] Ajay Bahl
[D] K V R Murty ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
Correct Answer: B [Injeti Srinivas]

Notes:
The committee, chaired by Corporate Affairs Secretary Injeti Srinivas, has recently submitted final
report on review of penal provisions of Company Act 2013 to the Union Minister for Finance &
Corporate Affairs, Arun Jaitley. The Committee recommended that the existing rigour of the law should
continue for serious offences, covering six categories, whereas for lapses that are essentially technical or
procedural in nature, mainly falling under two categories may be shifted to in-house adjudication
process. The report makes recommendations for de-clogging the National Company Law Tribunal
(NCLT) through significant reduction in compounding cases before the Tribunal. The Committee was
constituted by the Union government in July 2018 to review the existing framework dealing with
offences under the Companies Act, 2013 and related matters and make recommendations to promote
better corporate compliance.
89. Who has become the first-ever Indian shuttler to enter a badminton final at the Asian Games?
[A] PC Thulasi
[B] Saina Nehwal
[C] Kidambi Srikanth
[D] PV Sindhu
Correct Answer: D [PV Sindhu]
Notes:
Olympic Silver Medalist PV Sindhu has created history by becoming the first-ever Indian shuttler to
enter a badminton final at the Asian Games. She stormed into the women’s singles final after defeating
Akane Yamaguchi of in the semi-final at the 18th Asian Games 2018 on August 27. Sindhu will now face
World No 1 Chines Taipei’s Tai Tzu Ying in a Gold rush on August 28. Earlier, top shuttler Saina Nehwal
settled for a Bronze after losing her women’s singles semifinal in straight sets 17-21, 14-21 to Tai Tzu
Ying. With this, Nehwal became the first Indian to win an individual medal in badminton 36 years after
Syed Modi had clinched the bronze at the 1982 Delhi Asian Games.
90. The Personal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018 aims to remove discrimination and stigma
attached to patients of which disease?
[A] Leprosy
[B] HIV
[C] Typhoid
[D] Cancer
Correct Answer: A [Leprosy ]
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Notes:
The Personal Laws (Amendment) Bill, 2018 eliminates leprosy as a ground for dissolution of marriage or
divorce. It is an attempt to end the discrimination against leprosy persons in various central laws: The
Divorce Act, 1869; the Dissolution of Muslim Marriages Act, 1939; the Special Marriage Act, 1954; the
Hindu Marriage Act, 1955; and the Hindu Adoptions and Maintenance Act of 1956. The Bill is meant to
provide for the integration of leprosy patients into the mainstream. Leprosy is a chronic infectious
disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It usually affects the skin and peripheral nerves, but has a wide
range of clinical manifestations. According to WHO, leprosy affected 2,12,000 people globally in 2015.
India alone reported 1,27,326 new cases, accounting for 60% of new cases globally.
91. Which of the following cities is the venue of the 4th Asian electoral stakeholders forum (AESF-
IV)?
[A] Bangkok
[B] Colombo
[C] New Delhi
[D] Bali
Correct Answer: B [Colombo]
Notes:
On August 27, the 4th edition of Asian ramkishan
electoral stakeholders forum
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | (AESF-IV) has started in Colombo,
Sri Lanka to discuss the state of elections and democracy in the region. The two-day forum is held for
the first time in South Asia with support from the Election Commission of Sri Lanka and the Asian
network for free elections (ANFREL). The forum gives an opportunity for Asian election commissions,
election observers, non-government organizations, and interstate bodies to gather and discuss the state
of elections and democracy in the region. The AESF was attended by more than 250 delegates from 45
countries. India is represented by Chief Electoral Officer of Maharashtra Ashwini Kumar and an NGO.
92. Which Indian economist has been appointed Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the New
York Office of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP)?
[A] Nikhil Seth
[B] Atul Khare
[C] Rahguram Rajan
[D] Satya S Tripathi
Correct Answer: D [Satya S Tripathi]
Notes:
Satya S Tripathi, the veteran Indian development economist and UN official, has been appointed
Assistant Secretary-General and Head of the New York Office of the United Nations Environment
Programme (UNEP). The appointment was made by UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres. Mr.
Tripathi, who will succeed Elliott Harris of Trinidad and Tobago, has worked with the UN since 1998 in
Europe, Asia and Africa on sustainable development, human rights, democratic governance and legal
affairs. UN Environment is the leading agency at the world body focussed on environment. It works with
governments, the private sector, the civil society and with other UN entities and international
organisations across the world.
93. Ravinder Kumar Singhal, who has successfully completed the Ironman triathlon, is from which
state?
[A] Uttar Pradesh
[B] Madhya Pradesh
[C] Odisha
[D] Maharashtra
Correct Answer: D [Maharashtra ]
Notes:
Dr. Ravinder Kumar Singhal (53), the Maharashtra cadre IPS officer & presently Nashik Police
Commissioner, has successfully completed the immensely difficult “Ironman triathlon” in 15 hours and
13 minutes as against the stipulated time of 17 hours in France on August 26, 2018. The Ironman is an
international triathlon consisting of three consecutive events- 3.8 km of swimming, 180 km cycling and
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42.2 km of running (a full marathon). It is considered one of the toughest one-day sporting events in the
world. The competitors have to complete the events in sequence within 17 hours to earn the title of
‘Ironman’. Earlier, model-turned-actor Milind Soman had successfully completed the race in 2015. Beside
this, Anju Khosla (52) became the oldest Indian woman to complete an Ironman Triathlon in Austria on
July 2018, while Major General Vikram Dogra became the first serving Indian Army officer and the only
General across the world to have successfully completed a gruelling ‘Ironman’ competition held in
Klagenfurt, Austria in July 2018.
94. Who became the first-ever Indian javelin-thrower to win an Asian Games gold medal?
[A] Shivpal Singh
[B] Neeraj Chopra
[C] Parsa Singh
[D] Arjun Meghwal
Correct Answer: B [Neeraj Chopra]
Notes:
Neeraj Chopra has created history by becoming the first-ever Indian javelin-thrower to win an Asian
Games gold medal. He shattered his own national record by clearing a distance of 88.06m at the 2018
Jakarta Asian Games on August 27. He also became the 2nd Indian after Milkha Singh to win a
Commonwealth and Asian Games gold in the event in the same year. Beside this, Neeraj became the 3rd
Indian javelin-thrower to win a medal at the Asian Games after Gurtej Singh (who won a bronze in the
1982 edition in New Delhi) and Parsa Singh (who became the first Indian to won a silver at the 1951 New
Delhi Asian Games).
95. Who is the author of the book “Atal Ji Ne Kaha”?
[A] V S Naik
[B] Annu Kapoor
[C] Brijendra Rehi
[D] Chitra Banerjee
Correct Answer: C [Brijendra Rehi]
Notes:
The book “Atal Ji Ne Kaha” is authored and compiled by Brijendra Rehi, who is Doordarshan producer &
senior journalist. It is a book on the BJP patriarch and former Prime Minister Atal Bihari Vajpayee, which
was launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The book has 26 chapters based on former Prime
Minister’s speeches which is on economy, policies, small industries, social development, nuclear
programme, science and technology or terrorism. It is replete with pictures of the late Prime Minister.
Beside this, Rehi has published 11 books so far including Muktiswar, Kaka and Mewad Ke Itihaas Ki
Jhanki.
96. The Odisha government has launched which programme to identify young talents?
[A] Mu Hero, Mu Odisha
[B] Mu Power, Mu Odisha
[C] Mu Startup, Mu Odisha
[D] Mu Youth, Mu Odisha
Correct Answer: A [Mu Hero, Mu Odisha]
Notes:
The Odisha government has launched a programme “Mu Hero, Mu Odisha” (I am Hero-I am Odisha)” to
identify and to give recognition to the young achievers of the state. The initiative is to be conducted by
the Biju Yuva Vahini (BYV) members.
97. Which Indian-origin personality has been selected as Asia Society’s Game Changer of the Year
for 2018?
[A] Guruswamy Jayraman
[B] Shand Panesar
[C] Indra Nooyi
[D] Sanjeev Gupta
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Correct Answer: C [Indra Nooyi]

Notes:
Indra Nooyi, the PepsiCo Chairman and CEO, has been selected as Asia Society’s Game Changer of the
Year for 2018 in recognition of her pioneering business achievements, humanitarian record, and
advocacy for women and girls around the world. The award will be presented at the 5th Annual Asia
Game Changer Awards Dinner and Celebration in New York City on October 9, 2018. The event will also
feature the first-ever U.S. performance of Koolulam.
98. Which country’s team has won the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup France 2018?
[A] Japan
[B] France
[C] Spain
[D] Germany
Correct Answer: A [Japan]
Notes:
On 24 August, the Japan Women’s National Team has won the 9th edition of 2018 FIFA U-20 Women’s
World Cup tournament by beating the Spanish team 3-1 at the final in France. In Japanese football
history, it’s their first-ever FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup title. The FIFA Fair Play Award was goes to
Japanese team. It must be noted that France will| ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com
ramkishan gugulotu also host the 2019 | FIFA Women’s World Cup, which is
schedule to take place between June-July.
99. The Lakhwar multi-purpose project is associated with which river?
[A] Kaveri
[B] Yamuna
[C] Chambal
[D] Godavari
Correct Answer: B [Yamuna]
Notes:
On August 28, the Government of India (GoI) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with
Chief Ministers of 6 Upper Yamuna basin states for the construction of Lakhwar multi-purpose project
in Uttarakhand. The states are Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana and
Delhi. The Lakhwar project envisages construction of a 204m high concrete dam across river Yamuna
near Lohari village in Dehradun district of Uttarakhand with a live storage capacity of 330.66 Million
Cubic Metre (MCM). This storage will provide 78.83 MCM water for domestic, drinking and industrial
use in the six basin states. It will also irrigate 33,780 hectares of land and generate 300MW of power. Out
of the total project cost of Rs 3966.51 crore, the power component of Rs. 1388.28 crore will be borne
totally by the Uttarakhand government. Uttarakhand will also get the benefit of total power generation
once the project is complete. The project is to be executed by M/s Uttarakhand Jal Vidyut Nigam Limited
(UJVL).
100. Dutee Chand, who clinched silver in 100m women’s race at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games, is
belong to which state?
[A] Punjab
[B] Haryana
[C] Odisha
[D] Kerala
Correct Answer: C [Odisha ]
Notes:
Indian sprinter Dutee Chand from Odisha clinched silver in women’s 100m dash in the 18th Asian Games
2018 to win the country’s first medal in 20 years in this event. Earlier, she was suspended by the IAAF in
2014 under its hyperandrogenism policy but she filed an appealed before the Court of Arbitration for
Sports and won it. Recently, under a revised rule of the IAAF, Dutee was left outside the purview of the
hyperandrogenism policy which gave her liberty to pursue her career. India’s last medal in this event
was the bronze won by Rachita Mistry in 1998 Asian Games.
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101. Which IIT has recently conducted study on River Ganga that indicates that river is drying up
in summers due to groundwater depletion?
[A] IIT-Kharagpur
[B] IIT-Madras
[C] IIT-Bombay
[D] IIT-Delhi
Correct Answer: A [IIT-Kharagpur]
Notes:
IIT-Kharagpur has recently conducted study on River Ganga that indicates that river is drying up in
summers due to groundwater depletion. The study, published recently in Scientific Reports magazine by
Nature Publishing Group, used a combination of satellite images of groundwater levels of Ganga,
numerical simulations and chemical analyses to draw the conclusion. The study asserted that the decline
of groundwater inflow (base flow) is also impacting the health of the river. The study also observed that
in the forthcoming summers, for the next 30 years, groundwater contribution to river Ganga will
continue decreasing. The trend can lead to disastrous effect on the riverine ecology and lead to food
scarcity for 115 million people in the Ganga basin. Abhijit Mukherjee, associate professor of Geology in
IIT-Kharapur, along with researchers Soumendra Nath Bhanja from Canada and Yoshihide Wada from
IIASA Austria has conducted the study. The research was carried out under IIT-KGP Science and
Heritage Initiative (SANDHI) Initiative, which
ramkishan focuses on river
gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com | systems and its relationship with
settlement system.
102. The Union Cabinet has recently approved umbrella scheme “O-SMART” of Ministry of Earth
Sciences. What does “O” stands here?
[A] Opacity
[B] Orach
[C] Oilcloth
[D] Ocean
Correct Answer: D [Ocean]
Notes:
On August 29, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs (CCEA) has given its approval for the
umbrella scheme “Ocean Services, Technology, Observations, Resources Modelling and Science (O-
SMART)” of Ministry of Earth Sciences. The scheme with an overall cost of Rs. 1623 crore encompasses a
total of 16 sub-projects addressing ocean development activities such as Services, Technology,
Resources, Observations and Science. The services rendered under the O-SMART will provide economic
benefits to a number of user communities in the coastal and ocean sectors, namely, fisheries, offshore
industry, coastal states, Defence, Shipping, Ports etc. This scheme also provides necessary scientific and
technological background required for implementation of various aspects of Blue Economy.
103. Which of the following Indian sprinters has achieved a rare one-two in men’s 800m at the
[A] Jinson Johnson and Muhammed Anas
[B] Govindan Lakshmanan and Dharun Ayyasamy
[C] Rajiv Arokia and Manjit Singh
[D] Manjit Singh and Jinson Johnson
Correct Answer: D [Manjit Singh and Jinson Johnson]
Notes:
On August 28, Manjit Singh clinched gold in the men’s 800 metres event at the 2018 Jakarta Asian
Games, which was India’s first gold in the event since Charles Borromeo won in 1982 Asiad. Beside this,
Indian sprinter Jinson Johnson from Kerala also won the silver at the same event. With this, India
achieved a rare one-two in men’s 800m at the Asian Games. Manjit clocked 1:46.15 while Johnson
clocked 1:46.35 to make it a memorable double for India. It was India’s only second one-two finish in
800m at the Games since Ranjit Singh and Kulwant Singh achieved the feat at the inaugural edition held
in New Delhi in 1951.
104. Which technological giant has launched Project Navlekha to help Indian vernacular news
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publishers to take their content online?

[A] Infosys
[B] Google
[C] Facebook
[D] Wipro
Correct Answer: B [Google]
Notes:
At the 4th edition of Google for India event, Google has launched Project Navlekha to help Indian
vernacular news publishers to take their content online. It does not require any technical know-how of
web publishing and can be used by anyone. Currently, the project has publishers from Delhi and its
reach would soon be expanded across India. Navlekha, which means ‘a new way to write’ in Sanksrit, will
allow 1.35 lakh Indian publishers to digitize their offline content by creating instant web pages using
scanned documents or PDFs. The registered publishers on Navlekha will also be provided with free web
hosting, along with a branded domain for 3 years. They’ll also have AdSense support to begin monetising
their content. To be available initially in Hindi language, Google will not charge the publication for the
publication tools and the domain name for the first 3 years.
105. Which country to host the 2019 Asian Youth Weightlifting Championships?
[A] India ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[B] Bhutan
[C] North Korea
[D] Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: C [North Korea]
Notes:
North Korea will host the 2019 Asian Youth and Junior Weightlifting Championships in its capital
Pyongyang from October 27.
106. Who has been conferred Praful Bidwai memorial award for 2018 ?
[A] Medha Patkar
[B] Vandana Shiva
[C] Ulka Mahajan
[D] Vandana Shiva
Correct Answer: C [Ulka Mahajan]
Notes:
Ulka Mahajan, who is one of the three founders of Sarvahara Jan Andolan (SJA), has been conferred
Praful Bidwai Memorial Award for 2018. The award was presented to Mahajan by social activist Medha
Patkar. It was instituted in the memory of journalist and social activist “Praful Bidwai” who died in
Amsterdam in 2015 and was committed to radical social transformation, justice for all and gender
equality. The award seeks to recognize the efforts of individuals and institutions that strive for similar
ends.
107. ISRO is planning to use which launch vehicle to send Gaganyan in space by 2022?
[A] GSLV Mk-V
[B] GSLV Mk-II
[C] GSLV Mk-III
[D] GSLV Mk-IV
Correct Answer: C [GSLV Mk-III]
Notes:
The Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO) has decided to launch `Gaganyaan — India’s first
human spaceflight programme’ by 2022. The mission will aim to send a 3-member crew to space for a
period of 5 to 7 days. The spacecraft will be placed in a low earth orbit of 300-400km and the total
programme cost is expected to be less than Rs. 10,000 crores. The crew will be selected by the Indian Air
Force and ISRO jointly after which they will undergo training for 2 to 3 years. It is expected that the
mission may be executed six months before India completes its 75th Independence Day with the help of
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GSLV Mk-III launch vehicle.The objectives of the Mission are to inspire youth, increase science and
technology levels in the country, improve industrial growth, develop technology for social benefits, etc.
The programme will make India the 4th nation in the world to launch a Human Spaceflight Mission. So
far, only the USA, Russia and China have launched human spaceflight missions.
108. On which date, the 2018 National Sports Day (NSD) was observed recently?
[A] August 27
[B] August 29
[C] August 28
[D] August 26
Notes:
The National Sports Day (NSD) is celebrated every year in India on August 29 to mark the birth
anniversary of legendary hockey player Major Dhyan Chand, who was known as ‘The Wizard’ or ‘The
Magician’ of hockey for his superb ball control. He won gold medals in Olympics for India in the years
1928, 1934 and 1936. He scored over 400 goals in his career, from 1926 to 1948. His autobiography “Goal!”
was published by Sport & Pastime, Madras in 1952. The Government of India (GoI) awarded him the 3rd
highest civilian honour of Padma Bhushan in 1956. Beside this, the most noted memorial for him is the
Major Dhyan Chand Award, which is the highest award for lifetime achievement in sports and games in
India. It has been awarded annually from 2002 to sporting figures that not only contribute through their
performance but also contribute to the sport after their retirement.

109. Who is the head of the newly formed Prime Minister’s Science Technology and Innovation
Council (PM-STIAC)?
[A] Subhash Kak
[B] Baba Kalyani
[C] K Vijay Raghavan
[D] Sangamitra Bandopadhyay
Correct Answer: C [K Vijay Raghavan]
Notes:
The Government of India (GoI) has constituted a 21-member committee to advise Prime Minister
Narendra Modi on policy matters related to science, technology and innovation. The committee, dubbed
as Prime Minister’s Science Technology and Innovation Council (PM-STIAC), will be headed by K Vijay
Raghavan, the principal scientific adviser to the GoI. It will facilitate the formulation and
implementation of policies and decisions, provide action-oriented and future preparedness advise and
assist in directing S&T to solve the socio economic problems in the country. It will also have a large
focus on driving innovation in education, research, industry etc.
110. Who was officially sworn-in as the new President of Zimbabwe?
[A] Robert Mugabe
[B] Emmerson Mnangagwa
[C] Canaan Banana
[D] Constantino Chiwenga
Correct Answer: B [Emmerson Mnangagwa]
Notes:
Emmerson Mnangagwa was officially sworn-in as the new President of Zimbabwe on August 26, after
narrowly winning the 2018 Zimbabwean general election. It was the country’s first election since the
ousting of strongman Robert Mugabe. The President of Zimbabwe is the head of state of Zimbabwe,
elected by direct universal suffrage using a two-round system. The President is also the head of
government, as the office of Prime Minister was abolished in 1987. Zimbabwe is a landlocked country
and its capital is Harare.
111. India has signed $300 million agreement with which International organisation for its Energy
Efficiency Scale-Up Program?
[A] IMF
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[B] World Bank

[C] ADB
[D] AIIB
Correct Answer: B [World Bank]
Notes:
The Government of India (GoI) and the World Bank signed a $220 million Loan Agreement and a $80
million Guarantee Agreement for the India Energy Efficiency Scale-Up Program. The program will be
implemented by the Energy Efficiency Services Limited (EESL). It will help scale-up the deployment of
energy saving measures in residential and public sectors. The investments under the Program are
expected to avoid lifetime greenhouse gas emissions of 170 million tons of CO2, and contribute to
avoiding an estimated 10 GW of additional generation capacity. The Program will help tackle the
financing, awareness, technical and capacity barriers faced by new energy efficiency programmes and
support the Unnat Jyoti by Affordable LEDs for All (UJALA) and Street Lighting National Program
(SLNP) schemes. The $220 million IBRD loan has a 5-year grace period & a maturity of 19 years while the
$80 million IBRD guarantee will partially cover re-payment risks to commercial lenders or investors, to
enable EESL to raise funds for its programme.
112. Which country is host to the first-ever SAARC Agriculture Cooperative Business Forum?
[A] Nepal
[B] India
[C] Nepal
[D] Bhutan
Correct Answer: A [Nepal ]
Notes:
The first-ever SAARC Agriculture Cooperative Business Forum has started in Kathmandu, Nepal on
August 29, 2018. It is co-organized by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and Asian
Farmers’ Association (AFA) with the support from the International Fund for Agricultural Development
(IFAD). The aim of the forum is to bring together representatives both from the government and non-
governmental entities from the Member States of SAARC as well as from regional and international
organizations. The theme of 3-day Forum is the ‘Organizing and Strengthening Family Farmers’
Cooperatives to attain the Sustainable-Development-Goals-1 and 2 in South Asia.
113. Who has created history by becoming the first Indian heptathlete to win an Asian Games
gold?
[A] Pramila Aiyappa
[B] Soma Biswas
[C] Swapna Barman
[D] Purnima Hembram
Correct Answer: C [Swapna Barman]
Notes:
Despite competing with a severe toothache, Swapna Barman from West Bengal clinched gold in the
women’s heptathlon with 6026 points at the 18th Asian Games 2018 in Jakarta on August 29. With this,
she created history by becoming the first Indian heptathlete to win an Asian Games gold. Before
Barman, only Bengal’s Soma Biswas and Karnataka’s JJ Shobha and Pramila Aiyappa had returned with a
medal from the Asian Games. Soma and Shobha had finished two-three at both Busan Asian Games
(2002) and the Doha Games (2006), while Pramila had won a bronze at the 2010 Guangzhou edition.
114. Who represented India at the G20 Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting 2018?
[A] Ravi Shankar Prasad
[B] Piyush Goyal
[C] Sushma Swaraj
[D] Sushma Swaraj
Correct Answer: A [Ravi Shankar Prasad]
Notes:
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In Argentina, the G20 Digital Economy Ministerial Meeting 2018 was held in Salta with theme ‘Building
consensus for fair and sustainable development’ on August 23-24. It took place as part of Sherpa Track
for 2018 G20 Leaders’ Summit, which is to be hosted by Argentina by end of 2018. India was represented
by Union Minister for Electronics and IT & Law and Justice, Ravi Shankar Prasad. The G20 Ministerial
meeting allowed India to showcase the inclusive use of digital technology by the Government to
empower the people. It also allowed India to articulate it’s views on global issues relating to cyber
security, data protection and innovation for growth. The key issues of the meeting were future of work,
infrastructure for development, and sustainable food future. It concluded with the adaptation of
declaration that reflects G20’s commitment towards promoting policies and actions that catalyze digital
transformations.
115. Which sportsperson has clinched India’s first men’s triple jump gold in 48 years at the 18th
Asian Games 2018?
[A] Shivpal Singh
[B] Rakesh Babu A V
[C] Sreeshankar
[D] Arpinder Singh
Correct Answer: D [Arpinder Singh]
Arpinder Singh from Punjab clinched India’s first men’s triple jump gold in 48 years, with a jump of
16.77m in the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games on August 29. With this, he became the 2nd Indian sportsperson
to achieve this landmark. Before him, Mohinder Singh Gill won gold medal in triple jump event in 1970
Bangkok Asian games event.
116. India has signed $375 million loan agreement with which International organisation to
improve irrigation in Madhya Pradesh?
[A] ADB
[B] AIIB
[C] World Bank
[D] IMF
Correct Answer: A [ADB]
Notes:
The Government of India has signed a $375 million loan agreement with the Asian Development Bank
(ADB) for Madhya Pradesh Irrigation Efficiency Improvement Project (MPIEIP). The aim of the pact is to
double farming incomes in Madhya Pradesh by expanding irrigation networks and system efficiency.
The project will focus on two large irrigation systems: Kundalia irrigation project & Sanjay Sarovar
Irrigation Project. It will develop 125,000 hectares of new, highly efficient and climate resilient irrigation
networks, and improve water use efficiency in more than 400 villages, which will benefit over 800,000
people across the state. The project will also help farmers to adopt micro-irrigated agriculture including
high-value crops.
117. Which union minister is leading the Indian delegation for the 6th RCEP Trade Ministers’
Meeting 2018?
[A] Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore
[B] Suresh Prabhu
[C] Nitin Gadkari
[D] Sushma Swaraj
Correct Answer: B [Suresh Prabhu]
Notes:
The 6th edition of RCEP Trade Ministers’ Meeting 2018 has started in Singapore on August 30, which
consists of 10 ASEAN countries and six ASEAN FTA partners namely, India, China, Japan, Korea,
Australia and New Zealand. In it, the Indian delegation is led by Suresh Prabhu, the Union Minister of
Commerce & Industry and Civil Aviation. The aim of 2-day meeting is to work towards a high quality,
balanced and inclusive outcomes that take into consideration sensitivities and interests of member
countries. The Ministers will deliberate on the current global economic situation and exchange views on
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promotion of rule-based multilateral trading system and its importance to the stability and effective
functioning of the global economic order. This will be followed by the 15th India-ASEAN Economic
Ministers’ Meeting (AEM) which will take stock of the current level of trade and economic engagement
between India and ASEAN.
118. Who has been appointed India’s new High Commissioner to United Kingdom (UK)?
[A] T.P. Seetharam
[B] Yashvardhan Kumar Sinha
[C] Ruchi Ghanashyam
[D] Navtej Sarna
Correct Answer: C [Ruchi Ghanashyam]
Notes:
Ruchi Ghanashyam, the 1982 batch IFS officer, has been appointed India’s new High Commissioner to
United Kingdom (UK). She succeeded Y K Sinha. Prior to this post, she was the Secretary (West) in the
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Ghanashyam was the first Indian woman diplomat to be posted in
Islamabad when the harassment of Indian diplomats was routine.
119. Which Indian Naval Ship is participating in the multilateral regional maritime engagement
exercise “KAKADU 2018”? ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[A] INS Vikramaditya
[B] INS Satpura
[C] INS Sahyadri
[D] INS Viraat
Correct Answer: C [INS Sahyadri]
Notes:
The 14th edition of multilateral regional maritime engagement exercise “KAKADU 2018” has started in
Darwin, Australia from August 29 and will continue till September 15. It is hosted by the Royal
Australian Navy (RAN) and supported by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Indian Naval Ship ‘INS
Sahyadri’, commanded by Captain Shantanu Jha, is participating in this edition of exercise. Indian
Navy’s participation is a significant milestone in towards strengthening mutual confidence among
regional navies and is expected to further bolster India’s contribution in ensuring peace and stability in
the Indo-Pacific region. The exercise KAKADU is held biennially in Darwin and the Northern Australian
Exercise Areas (NAXA). Exercise KAKADU derives its name from Kakadu National Park, which is a
protected area in the northern territory of Australia, 171 km south-east of Darwin.
120. The World Bank will provide how much amount of loan facility to Rajasthan for improving
the performance of its electricity distribution sector?
[A] $450 million
[B] $350 million
[C] $250 million
[D] $550 million
Correct Answer: C [$250 million]
Notes:
The World Bank (WB) will provide a $250 million loan facility to Rajasthan for improving the
performance of its electricity distribution sector under the 24×7 Power for All program. For this, an
agreement was signed among the Government of India, the Government of Rajasthan and the World
Bank. The key areas that the programme will support include strengthening governance in the
distribution sector by establishing annual performance MoUs between the DISCOMs and the State
Government. To address the concerns of affordability and access to electricity for the poor, the program
also supports the Union Government’s Domestic Efficient Lighting Program (DELP), under which more
than 15 million LED lamps have been distributed in the State.
121. Which European country has sanctioned Euro 120 million soft loan to India for National Clean
Ganga Mission?
[A] France
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[B] Belgium
[C] Germany
[D] Spain
Correct Answer: C [Germany ]
Notes:
Germany has sanctioned a soft loan of euro 120 million ( approx Rs. 990 crore) to India for National Clean
Ganga Mission & to strengthen sewage water treatment infrastructure in Uttarakhand. The purpose of
the project is to reduce the inflow of untreated waste water in River Ganga & to improve the water
quality of the river. The project would focus on extension and replacement of sewerage system (around
360Km) including complete house connection, construction of sewage treatment plants of around 15
million litres per day (mld).The initiative also includes construction of 13 sewage pumping stations.
Beside this, the German development agency GIZ has prepared a ‘Ganga Box’ that aimed to target
schools-going children and inform them about the river. The concept ‘Ganga book’ was planned on the
lines of ‘Danube Book’ when the cleaning of Rhine River was undertaken. The Ganga book would have
information mythological, socio-cultural, economic importance about the river and suggestions to avoid
pollution, like not dumping plastic in the water body.
122. Which state government has organised an interactive programme “Mil -Banche” in
government schools of state?
[A] Madhya Pradesh
[B] Gujarat
[C] Uttar Pradesh
[D] Himachal Pradesh
Correct Answer: A [Madhya Pradesh]
Notes:
The Madhya Pradesh government has organized an interactive programme “Mil -Banche” in
government schools of state on August 31, 2018. It is a first of its kind initiative i.e. being organized for
multi-dimensional development of children through language skill up-gradation, reading other books in
addition to textbooks, developing interest in understanding and other co-curricular activities. Over 2
lakh volunteers who have registered for the programme include 820 engineers, 843 doctors, 36 thousand
employees of private sector, 19 thousand public representatives and around 45 thousand government
employees and officers. Volunteers will read out one chapter of any book from either the school library
or the Hindi textbook during the programme. After the reading session, the students present in the class
will be asked interesting questions and will be introduced to the art of conversation and reading after
group discussion.
123. Which Indian sprinter clinched gold in men’s 1500m race at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games?
[A] Rajiv Arokia
[B] Govindan Lakshmanan
[C] Manjit Singh
[D] Jinson Johnson
Correct Answer: D [Jinson Johnson]
Notes:
Indian sprinter Jinson Johnson from Kerala clinched gold with a timing of 3 minutes 44.72 seconds in
men’s 1500m race at the 2018 Jakarta Asian Games on August 30. He also holds the credit of winning
silver in the 800m track event at the ongoing event, finishing behind compatriot Manjit Singh, who won
the Gold. With this, India achieved a rare one-two in men’s 800m at the 18th Asian Games 2018. It was
India’s only second one-two finish in 800m at the Games since Ranjit Singh and Kulwant Singh achieved
the feat at the inaugural edition held in New Delhi in 1951.
124. India has signed $346 million loan agreement with which International organisation for road
improvement in Karnataka?
[A] AIIB
[B] ADB
[C] World Bank
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[D] IMF
Correct Answer: B [ADB]
Notes:
The Government of India (GoI) has signed a $346 million million loan agreement with the Asian
Development Bank (ADB) for Karnataka State Highways lmprovement lll Project (KSHIP-lll). Under
KSHIP-III, about 419Kms of state highways will be upgraded to two- and four-lane roads and will involve
reconstruction as well as widening and strengthening of bridges and culverts. It will enhance
connectivity and access to economic centers across 12 districts in the state. The key element of the
project is the use of hybrid annuity contracts to increase participation of private sector and improve
quality & sustainibility of road assets with performance based maintenance period of 7 years post
construction. The project will also carry out a road safety audit to identify and mitigate critical accident
blackspots across the state highway network and strengthen the institutional capacity of the Karnataka
Public Works, Ports, and lnland Water Transport Department (IWTD).
125. India signed MoU with International Energy Agency (IEA) on increasing innovation for the
Clean Energy Transition. Where is the headquarters of IEA?
[A] Paris
[B] London
[C] New York ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[D] Geneva
Correct Answer: A [Paris]
Notes:
India has signed MoU with International Energy Agency (IEA) on enhancing innovation for the Clean
Energy Transition on August 30, 2018. The MoU was signed between secretary of Department of
Biotechnology (DBT), Dr. Renu Swarup and Executive Director of IEA, Dr. Fatih Birol. The MoU seeks to
deepen co-operation in support of clean energy innovations to accelerate the Research, Development
and Demonstration (RD&D) of clean energy technologies in India and will help support the generation of
data for policymaking and improve knowledge of good policy practices for innovation in India and
around the world. The MoU will ensure cooperation for sharing of energy policies on RD&D and sharing
of best practices on data collection and analysis. IEA is an autonomous intergovernmental organization,
which works to ensure reliable, affordable and clean energy for its 30 member countries and beyond. It’s
headquarters is located in Paris, France.
126. Which new ranking system has been announced by the Union Government for higher
educational institutions to promote innovation?
[A] ATLA
[B] ATAL
[C] ARGW
[D] ARIIA
Correct Answer: D [ARIIA]
Notes:
The Ministry of Human Resource Development (HRD) has announced new ranking system – named Atal
Ranking of Institutions on Innovation Achievements (ARIIA) – for higher educational institutions to
promote culture of innovation and research in higher education at AICTE in New Delhi. The new ranking
system will be formally launched on October 15, the birth anniversary of former President APJ Abdul
Kalam. The first results will be declared on February 28, 2019, which is also Science Day. ARIIA – named
after Atal Bihari Vajpayee- will focus on: budget expenses and revenues generated; facilitating access to
advance centres; ideas of entrepreneurship; innovation ecosystems supported through teaching and
learning; and innovative solutions to improve governance of the institution. It will rank educational
institutions for innovation output based on all major indicators and parameters used globally.
127. Which country has took over the chairmanship of the 5th Summit of BIMSTEC?
[A] Myanmar
[B] Bangladesh
[C] India
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[D] Sri Lanka

Correct Answer: D [Sri Lanka]
Notes:
The 4th edition of Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation
(BIMSTEC) Summit 2018 was successfully concluded in Kathmandu, Nepal with Kathmandu declaration
on August 30 to 31. From India, Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the summit that focused on
increasing regional connectivity between the BIMSTEC nations including roads, airways and
transmission lines. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed on establishing a BIMSTEC
Grid Interconnection to enhance energy cooperation among the member-States. The BIMSTEC,
comprising India, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Bhutan and Nepal, accounts for 22% of the
global population. It has a combined GDP of USD 2.8 trillion. Here, Sri Lankan President Maithripala
Sirisena took over the Chairmanship of the 5th Summit of BIMSTEC. Now, the next BIMSTEC summit
will be held in Sri Lanka.
128. Indian Railways has recently signed pact with which company for use of Natural Gas in
railway workshops?
[A] ONGC
[B] GAIL India
[C] NTPC ramkishan gugulotu | ramkishan.gugulotu13@gmail.com |
[D] IOCL
Correct Answer: B [GAIL India ]
Notes:
In New Delhi, Indian Railways has recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with GAIL
India Ltd for use of environment-friendly fuel ‘Natural Gas’ in Railway workshops and production units.
The purpose of the pact is to replace Industrial gases like Dissolved Acetylene, LPG, Bharat Metal
Cutting Gas (BMCG) and Furnace Oil / High Speed Diesel (HSD) oil with Natural Gas. The use of natural
gas has a potential to replace fuel worth Rs 70 crore per annum. This historic partnership will pave the
way for supply of Natural Gas to Railway workshops, integral coach factories, loco workshops, DEMU
sheds, etc. located along the existing and upcoming pipeline networks of GAIL. This endeavour shall
reduce carbon foot-prints of IR and contribute positively towards achieving COP21 commitments.
129. Which of the following cities is the venue of the MOVE: India’s First Global Mobility Summit
2018?
[A] New Delhi
[B] Pune
[C] Chennai
[D] Kolkata
Correct Answer: A [New Delhi]
Notes:
NITI Aayog will organise MOVE: India’s First Global Mobility Summit 2018 at Vigyan Bhawan in New
Delhi on September 7. The aim of the summit is to showcase innovation and build a platform to shape
the future of mobility, The summit will constitute three designated components – the Conclave, Digital
Exhibition, and Featured Events. The six themes of the 2-day summit are asset utilisation and service,
comprehensive electrification, alternative energy, reinventing public transit, logistics and goods
transport and data analytics and mobility. The summit, which will be inaugurated by Prime Minister
Narendra Modi, will help drive the government’s goals for vehicle electrification, renewable energy
integration and job growth and also speed up India’s transition to a clean energy economy.
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diamond jubilee celebrations in Thiruvananthapuram

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sectors, constitute 40.27% of the total index of industrial production (IIP).

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Xingkong-2: China successfully tests first hypersonic aircraft

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How it is different from Conventional battery technology?

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Central Board of RBI

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ethanol-blending and 5% biodiesel-blending by year 2030.

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post-matriculation or post-secondary stage to enable them to complete their education.

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Digital North East Vision 2022 released in Guwahati

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forest management committee.